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Category: Science

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Task Force for Collaboration on the Northern Metropolis Development Strategy holds meeting in Hong Kong (with photos)

    Source: Hong Kong Government special administrative region

    Task Force for Collaboration on the Northern Metropolis Development Strategy holds meeting in Hong Kong       
    In the morning, the delegation of the HKSAR Government accompanied the delegation of the Shenzhen Government to visit the Hong Kong Park of the Hetao Shenzhen-Hong Kong Science and Technology Innovation Co-operation Zone (Hetao Hong Kong Park). They were briefed by representatives of the Civil Engineering and Development Department and the Hong Kong-Shenzhen Innovation and Technology Park Limited on the planning, design and construction work of the Park, and toured the newly completed talent accommodation building therein.

         At the afternoon meeting, the HKSAR Government presented the achievements made in taking forward the development of the Northern Metropolis in the past year, including the development proposals for Ngau Tam Mei, the New Territories North New Town and Ma Tso Lung announced at the end of last year; and an earlier invitation for submissions of expressions of interest on three large-scale land disposal pilot areas. The HKSAR Government also introduced the Development Outline for the Hetao Hong Kong Park promulgated in November last year, which clearly sets out the major development directions, strategy and targets of the Park. Both sides also exchanged views on the planning progress for the Hong Kong-Shenzhen Western Rail Link (Hung Shui Kiu-Qianhai), the implementation of the Wutong Mountain (Shenzhen)-Robin’s Nest (Hong Kong) Ecological Corridor and the planning and development of Hong Kong-Shenzhen control points.      
         Officials of the HKSAR Government attending the meeting today included the Secretary for Development, Ms Bernadette Linn; the Secretary for Constitutional and Mainland Affairs, Mr Erick Tsang Kwok-wai; the Secretary for Security, Mr Tang Ping-keung; the Secretary for Transport and Logistics, Ms Mable Chan; the Permanent Secretary for Development (Planning and Lands), Ms Doris Ho; the Permanent Secretary for Education, Ms Michelle Li; the Under Secretary for Environment and Ecology, Miss Diane Wong; the Under Secretary for Innovation, Technology and Industry, Ms Lillian Cheong, as well as the heads of relevant departments.
    Issued at HKT 16:50

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    CategoriesMIL-OSI

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

    April 11, 2025

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: UNION MINISTER OF WOMEN AND CHILD DEVELOPMENT SMT. ANNPURNA DEVI HAS PRODUCTIVE INTERACTION WITH STATE GOVT. OFFICIALS OF ARUNACHAL PRADESH

    Source: Government of India

    Posted On: 10 APR 2025 8:30PM by PIB Delhi

    Union Minister Smt. Annpurna Devi had a productive interaction regarding the implementation of schemes of Ministry of Women and Child Development of Government of India with State Government officials in Itanagar, Arunachal Pradesh

    In a post on ‘X’, State Minister in charge of Women and Child Development in Arunachal Pradesh,

    Ms. Dasanglu Pul said, “Together, we reaffirm our commitment to the welfare and empowerment of women and children across the state.”

     

    Had a productive interaction with officials of the Ministry of Women & Child Development, Arunachal Pradesh in Itanagar regarding the implementation of schemes of Govt. of India. Hon’ble Minister Ms. Dasanglu Pul (WCD & Science & Tech, Arunachal Pradesh) was also present. @PIBWCD pic.twitter.com/jpN4lLkuBt

    — Annapurna Devi (@Annapurna4BJP) April 10, 2025

     

    *****

     

    SS/ MS

    (Release ID: 2120896) Visitor Counter : 12

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

    April 11, 2025

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: WAVES XR Creator Hackathon Winners Bring XR Innovation to Schools, Clinics, Homes, and Beyond

    Source: Government of India

    WAVES XR Creator Hackathon Winners Bring XR Innovation to Schools, Clinics, Homes, and Beyond

    Five winning teams will showcase their XR projects at WAVE Summit

    XR Innovators coming up in large numbers from Tier 2 and 3 cities

    Posted On: 10 APR 2025 9:06PM by PIB Mumbai

    Mumbai, 10 April 2025

     

    From immersive science labs to cross-platform war games, India’s top eXtended Reality (XR) innovators are redefining how we learn, heal, shop, and travel! The winners of the XR Creator Hackathon, which is a part of Create in India Challenge (CIC) Season-1, launched as part of the World Audio Visual and Entertainment Summit (WAVES), organised by the Ministry of Information & Broadcasting in collaboration with Wavelaps, have been declared. The hackathon, aimed at accelerating India’s presence in immersive technology, had five thematic categories — healthcare-fitness & well-being, educational transformation, immersive tourism, digital media & entertainment, and e-commerce-retail transformation.

    More than 2,200 participants from across India registered for the hackathon. After three rounds of evaluation, five teams have emerged as winners, representing a mix of students, professionals, and entrepreneurs from different cities and institutions. The winner announcement was done in a ‘Winners’ Ceremony’ which was organized virtually over a YouTube live stream.

    A brief about the Winning Teams and their XR Projects

    1) The winner in the theme, ‘Educational Transformation’ is the team XR Runners with their project ‘Eduscape XR’

    The VR-based platform, developed by the students of IIT Kharagpur, EduscapeXR, allows students to perform realistic, immersive experiments in subjects like physics, chemistry, and biology using hand-tracking and AI-based feedback. It addresses the lack of laboratory infrastructure in many schools and colleges. “In many parts of the country, students study science without doing real experiments. We wanted to change that and our project aims to revolutionise education by providing STEM practicals on a virtual reality platform,” said Vedanta Hazra, who led the team with Sahil Patel and Shaurya Baranwal.

     

    2) The Winner in the theme, ‘Healthcare, Fitness & Well-being’ is team Cognihab with their project ‘Cognihab’

    Cognihab offers XR-powered rehabilitation solutions that support recovery from lazy eye, stroke, and anxiety. “We’re focused on outcomes in real medical settings and this hackathon helped us sharpen our approach and reach new stakeholders,” said team lead Rishab Kapur.  Team members include Pintu Kumar and others with a background in XR-based health tech.

     

    3) The winners of the theme ‘Immersive Tourism’ is the team LumeXR with their project is ‘Immersive Travel Guide’

    LumeXR developed a mixed-reality tourism guide that allows users to explore destinations virtually. The experience includes a 3D map interface, drone-shot photogrammetry, and embedded video stories, making trip planning more engaging and efficient. The platform also enables tourism brands to offer XR-based previews that go beyond traditional brochures or videos. “This isn’t just a travel app — it’s immersive cultural storytelling, with the help of our project, users can now ‘feel’ a destination before booking it,” said LumeXR’s team lead, Savio.

     

    4) The winners of the theme ‘E-Commerce & Retail Transformation’ theme is team ‘EMO’ with their project ‘Heaven Estate’

    Heaven Estate lets homeowners visualize interior designs in AR and 3D before making real-world decisions. What sets it apart is the focus on user-designer collaboration — where verified interior designers upload visualizations that clients can preview in their own space. “We wanted to create a real bridge between homeowners and professionals,” said EMO’s team lead Utkarsh Rai, who built the project with Himanshu Mahto, Ashutosh Mishra, and Ishita Guar. The EMO team credits the mentorship phase of the hackathon for refining their design and user experience.

     

    5) The winners of the theme ‘Digital Media & Entertainment’ is team Youth Buzz with their project ‘Immersive Warfare Simulator’

    Youth Buzz created The Game of Dimensions, a multiplayer tactical war game playable across VR (virtual reality) headsets and  mobile, offering an immersive gameplay. “We wanted to unify the gaming experience across platforms and realities,” said team lead, Mohit Kumar Sharma. His teammates include Anish Dombale, A Shivam Raj, and Yash Sadhukhan.

     

    XR Innovators are coming up from Tier 2 and 3 cities

    The hackathon saw participation from 66% Tier 2 and 3 cities, including Chengalpet, Manipal, and Veraval. The participants ranged from 17 to 35 years. Of the 40 finalist teams, 53% were students, 33% working professionals, and 14% self-employed entrepreneurs. Notably, 19% of the finalists were women — a strong indicator of growing gender diversity in XR innovation.

    With support from Wavelaps, the Ministry of Information & Broadcasting, and the two leading XR communities, BharatXR and XDG, the finalists are now stepping onto the world stage — where ideas born in classrooms, hostels, and home studios may soon reach global users. While the winners have been declared, the XR Creator Hackathon isn’t over yet. All five teams are now preparing to showcase their projects at the WAVES Summit — a global media and entertainment event organised by the Ministry of Information and Broadcasting, scheduled from May 1–4, 2025, in Mumbai.

    “The XR Creator Hackathon is not just nurturing innovation — it’s building the foundation for a new digital India. These solutions will redefine how we learn, heal, travel, and connect.” said Ashutosh Kumar, Founder & CEO of Wavelaps. 

     

    About WAVES

    The first World Audio Visual & Entertainment Summit (WAVES), a milestone event for the Media & Entertainment (M&E) sector, will be hosted by the Government of India in Mumbai, Maharashtra, from May 1 to 4, 2025.

    Whether you’re an industry professional, investor, creator, or innovator, the Summit offers the ultimate global platform to connect, collaborate, innovate and contribute to the M&E landscape.

    WAVES is set to magnify India’s creative strength, amplifying its position as a hub for content creation, intellectual property, and technological innovation. Industries and sectors in focus include Broadcasting, Print Media, Television, Radio, Films, Animation, Visual Effects, Gaming, Comics, Sound and Music, Advertising, Digital Media, Social Media Platforms, Generative AI, Augmented Reality (AR), Virtual Reality (VR), and Extended Reality (XR).

    Have questions? Find answers here

    Stay updated with the latest announcements from PIB Team WAVES

    Register for WAVES now.

     

    * * *

    PIB TEAM WAVES 2025 | Sayyid/ Sriyanka/ Darshana | 90

    Follow us on social media: @PIBMumbai    /PIBMumbai     /pibmumbai   pibmumbai[at]gmail[dot]com  /PIBMumbai     /pibmumbai

    (Release ID: 2120798) Visitor Counter : 115

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

    April 11, 2025

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Hong Kong Science Museum’s new exhibition to introduce current state of local industries and explore future industry prospects (with photos)

    Source: Hong Kong Government special administrative region

    Hong Kong Science Museum’s new exhibition to introduce current state of local industries and explore future industry prospects  
    Addressing the opening ceremony today (April 11), the Director of Leisure and Cultural Services, Ms Manda Chan, said Hong Kong, as an international metropolis, not only brings together Eastern and Western cultures but also harmonises innovation with tradition. Following the country’s announcement to accelerate the development of new quality productive forces, Hong Kong is fully co-operating in its efforts and striving to become an international innovation and technology centre. Hong Kong’s industry has gradually transformed from early traditional manufacturing to today’s high-tech industries, embodying the wisdom and efforts of countless scientists, engineers, and entrepreneurs.
     
    She added that each innovation achievement in this exhibition is evidence of the new era of the Hong Kong industry, telling a “Hong Kong story” that, relying on technological strength, transforms innovative ideas into practical and sustainable solutions, continuously improving people’s quality of life. With advanced technologies such as artificial intelligence, the Internet of Things, and robotics, the Hong Kong industry achieves breakthroughs in environmental technologies that convert waste into energy, cutting-edge applications in smart manufacturing and life sciences, and redefines “Made in Hong Kong”.
     
    Ms Chan said this exhibition not only showcases technological innovation achievements but also promotes the culture of scientific research and popular science education. She hopes that the public, especially young people, can experience the myriad possibilities of technological development through the exhibits and interactive experiences, developing a passion for exploring science, learning innovative thinking for the future, and seizing the development opportunities brought about by Hong Kong’s technological innovation.

    Other officiating guests today included the Chairman of the Federation of Hong Kong Industries (FHKI), Mr Steve Chuang; the Executive Deputy Chairman of the FHKI and Chairman of the FHKI 65th Anniversary Organising Committee, Mr Anthony Lam; and the Museum Director of the HKScM, Mr Lawrence Lee.

    The exhibition comprises five sections, namely “Industry Cornerstone”, “Research and Development”, “Smart Manufacturing”, “Industry 4.0” and “2030 Vision”. Through interactive exhibits and model and object displays, the exhibition introduces innovative designs that cover a wide range of areas, including clothing, food, housing, and transportation in people’s daily lives, and highlights how local teams transfer research outcomes from three key industries, namely life and health technology, artificial intelligence and data sciences, and advanced manufacturing and new energy technology, to contribute to the realisation of Hong Kong’s new industrialisation. Highlight exhibits include an interactive device that showcases a passive radiative cooling material that lowers indoor temperatures without relying on electricity, an injection moulding machine that utilises injection moulding technology to mass-produce plastic products, and an automated multiplex diagnostic system that can detect more than 40 respiratory pathogens simultaneously in about 1.5 hours.
     
    The exhibition is presented by the Leisure and Cultural Services Department and the FHKI, organised by the HKScM and the FHKI, and funded by the Innovation and Technology Commission. The exhibition is held at the Special Exhibition Hall, G/F, HKScM (2 Science Museum Road, Tsim Sha Tsui East, Kowloon). Guided tours of the exhibition will be held on weekends and public holidays from May 1 to July 1. The guided tours are free of charge with on-site enrolment. In addition, the HKScM will also organise an array of activities, including off-site guided tours, exhibit demonstrations, children’s programmes, experiments, workshops, and science lectures, with free admission. For details of the exhibition and activities, please visit hk.science.museum/en/web/scm/exhibition/industrial2025.htmlIssued at HKT 18:11

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    CategoriesMIL-OSI

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

    April 11, 2025

  • MIL-OSI Economics: ASEAN, Australia continue to advance Comprehensive Strategic Partnership

    Source: ASEAN

    JAKARTA, 11 April 2024 – At the 15th ASEAN-Australia Joint Cooperation Committee (JCC) Meeting held today at the ASEAN Headquarters/ASEAN Secretariat, ASEAN and Australia reiterated their commitment to advancing their Comprehensive Strategic Partnership (CSP).

    The Meeting acknowledged the positive momentum of ASEAN-Australia cooperation following the Special Summit held in Melbourne in March 2024 to commemorate the 50th anniversary of ASEAN-Australia Dialogue Relations. The Meeting welcomed Australia’s continued support for ASEAN Community-building efforts and ASEAN Centrality as well as its strong commitment to substantially strengthening the CSP with ASEAN, reflected in programmes such as the Australia for ASEAN Futures Initiative (Aus4ASEAN Futures Initiative).

    The Meeting acknowledged the significant progress made in the implementation of the ASEAN-Australia Plan of Action 2025-2029 in various areas across all pillars, including non-traditional security challenges, maritime security, conflict prevention, trade and investment, digitalisation, energy, environment, education, youth and people-to-people exchanges. The Meeting welcomed the establishment of the ASEAN-Australia Centre in Canberra and its programmes and activities that aim to further strengthen business, education, cultural and community connections between ASEAN and Australia. The Meeting also welcomed Australia’s proposal for a Joint Statement on Conflict Prevention to be adopted at the 5th ASEAN-Australia Summit in November 2025.

    Both sides further discussed enhancing cooperation to advance the CSP, in line with the Joint Vision Statement – Partners for Peace and Prosperity and the Melbourne Declaration – A Partnership for Future adopted at the Special Summit in 2024. Focus areas of cooperation include cybersecurity; maritime cooperation; trade and investment; digitalisation; clean and renewable energy; science and technology; climate change; disaster management; health; TVET; education; people-to-people ties; smart cities; connectivity; and sustainable development, among others. Australia reaffirmed its commitment to providing capacity-building support for Timor-Leste’s full membership of ASEAN.

    The 15th ASEAN-Australia JCC Meeting was co-chaired by the Permanent Representative of Indonesia to ASEAN, H.E. Derry Aman, and Ambassador of Australia to ASEAN, H.E. Tiffany McDonald. Permanent Representatives of ASEAN Member States and representatives of the ASEAN Secretariat were in attendance. Timor-Leste attended as Observer.

    MIL OSI Economics –

    April 11, 2025

  • MIL-OSI Russia: Habits from childhood: how school years shape leisure time

    Translartion. Region: Russians Fedetion –

    Source: State University Higher School of Economics – State University Higher School of Economics –

    Moving to a big city does not always radically change daily habits. A study by the Higher School of Economics showed that an adult’s leisure preferences are largely determined in childhood and depend on where he spent his school years. This is the conclusion reached by an employee Faculty of Economic Sciences HSE Sergey Korotayev after studying the leisure habits of more than 5,000 Russians.

    The environment in which a person lives shapes his daily habits: how he spends his leisure time, what cultural and social activities he chooses. However, as the employee found out Laboratories for comparative analysis of the development of post-socialist societies Faculty of Economic Sciences of the National Research University Higher School of Economics Sergey Korotaev in the newresearch, lifestyle is influenced not only by the current place of residence. The home town where a person graduated from school also plays an important role.

    The study is based on a data set from the project “Social Differences in Modern Russia” and covers more than 5,000 respondents aged 24 to 55. The questionnaires took into account various activity indicators: visiting theaters, exhibitions or sports activities, drinking alcohol together, reading books in libraries and playing computer games. This approach allowed us to record a wider range of everyday behavior patterns.

    The results were then divided into three axes: activity versus passivity, cultural practices versus philistine ones, and real actions versus virtual ones. Based on these data, four behavioral clusters were identified: from people with minimal involvement in leisure to those actively attending cultural events. The analysis showed that a higher level of income, education, and professional qualifications is associated with active and cultural lifestyles. Family also influences the choice of leisure in many ways: for example, having a higher education among parents increases the likelihood of cultural and active leisure, both in megacities and in small towns.

    However, it is not only social status that influences behavioral style. Researchers have tracked how leisure time changed for those who moved from one type of settlement to another. It turned out that the habits formed are more than a third explained by where a person lived during their school years. Residents of megacities, as a rule, attend cultural events four times more often than those who grew up in small towns or villages.

    “It can be assumed that moving itself affects leisure. For example, those who moved to a large city will value new opportunities more, and their leisure will be even more diverse and intense. However, the study showed that this does not happen: the habits of those who moved to large cities are in the middle between the habits of the natives of their hometown and the new one,” comments Sergei Korotayev, an employee of the Faculty of Economic Sciences.

    “The context of the move is important: was it related to getting an education or to finding a job in adulthood. This can have a significant impact on what kind of imprint a person’s spatial trajectory leaves on them. But to take this into account, a more complex model and more data are needed,” noted Sergey Korotayev.

    These findings raise important questions for regional policy and urban development. Understanding how leisure habits are formed can help to more effectively develop cultural infrastructure and offer residents of different areas and ages the most suitable leisure formats. The researcher emphasizes that in order to influence people’s daily activity, it is necessary to take into account not only their current environment, but also their biographical context.

    Please note: This information is raw content directly from the source of the information. It is exactly what the source states and does not reflect the position of MIL-OSI or its clients.

    MIL OSI Russia News –

    April 11, 2025

  • MIL-OSI China: Two Chinese parks added to list of UNESCO Global Geoparks

    Source: People’s Republic of China – State Council News

    BEIJING, April 11 — The National Forestry and Grassland Administration announced on Friday that two geoparks in China, one in northwest China’s Qinghai Province and another in southwest China’s Chongqing Municipality, have been granted the title of UNESCO Global Geopark.

    With these new additions, China now boasts 49 UNESCO Global Geoparks, more than any other country in the world.

    Located in northwest China’s Qinghai, the Kanbula National Geopark spans roughly 3,149 square kilometers. Its striking Danxia landforms, towering peaks, hidden caves, and emerald lakes make it a prime location for geoscientific research and public science education.

    In southwest China’s Chongqing, the Yunyang Geopark covers approximately 1,124 square kilometers and is renowned for its rich dinosaur fossils and dramatic karst landforms. The fossils found here are of global scientific importance, as they help fill a significant knowledge gap in the evolution of dinosaurs during the Middle Jurassic period, especially the early part of the period.

    China has been actively working to protect its geological heritage and natural landscapes and develop protection and utilization models that integrate local characteristics. These efforts have garnered international recognition for the country.

    MIL OSI China News –

    April 11, 2025

  • MIL-OSI Russia: “Volunteer School”: Developing and Winning

    Translartion. Region: Russians Fedetion –

    Source: Peter the Great St Petersburg Polytechnic University – Peter the Great St Petersburg Polytechnic University –

    The results of the All-Russian competition “Volunteer School” have been summed up. It is held annually within the framework of the federal project “Social Activity”, aimed at creating conditions for the development and support of volunteerism (volunteering) as a key element of social responsibility of a developed civil society.

    One of the goals of the competition is to develop and shape a culture of volunteerism in Russia among children and young people. The event promotes the popularization of the volunteer movement, identifying and disseminating best practices.

    Students of the Higher School of Media Communications and Public Relations of the Humanitarian Institute, studying in the direction of “Advertising and Public Relations”, submitted a student project “Polytech Gives Warmth!” to the competition. It has been implemented at the Higher School of Media Communications and Public Relations under the supervision of Associate Professor Elina Avakova for the fourth year. The key area of activity is career guidance events for orphans, which are held in centers for promoting family education.

    The jury awarded the project 1st place in the nomination “Practices aimed at providing assistance to orphans and children left without parental care, as well as children experiencing problems establishing friendly contacts with peers.”

    We have implemented many events, prepared competition applications and, most importantly, brought joy to people. This kindness makes us happier, because it always returns multiplied several times – with good events and reciprocal care from other people. We hope that our example inspires others to small but significant actions that will make the world around them better, – said 3rd year student of the Higher School of Music and Social Sciences Daria Vlasevskaya.

    For the project activists Sofia Ryabinina, Daria Vlasevskaya, Anastasia Tryakina, Karina Olkhovikova and Daria Zaitseva, this is not the first achievement. The team has victories in various city, all-Russian and international competitions. Thus, in December 2024, the girls won the regional competition “Young Volunteer of St. Petersburg”, which is aimed at supporting the best volunteer initiatives aimed at helping people and improving the quality of life. The project activists successfully coped with the defense in the final and won 1st place in the track “Helping People”.

    Volunteering plays an important role in the education, socialization and professionalization of young people. Our project gives students the opportunity to express themselves in various interaction models, gain communication experience, develop positive qualities, which contributes to their harmonious personal growth, and also helps to acquire the skills necessary in future professional activities, – shared the project manager Elina Avakova.

    Please note: This information is raw content directly from the source of the information. It is exactly what the source states and does not reflect the position of MIL-OSI or its clients.

    MIL OSI Russia News –

    April 11, 2025

  • MIL-OSI Russia: Rosneft announces the start of the IT Competition Marathon

    Translartion. Region: Russians Fedetion –

    Source: Rosneft – Rosneft – An important disclaimer is at the bottom of this article.

    Rosneft has opened registration for the Academic Tournament, the first competition of the IT Marathon 2025.

    Teams of research fellows, postgraduate students of physical, mathematical and technical specialties, as well as candidates and doctors of science are invited to participate. The prize fund of the Academic Tournament is 2.5 million rubles (before taxes).

    Participants are invited to develop computer programs that will speed up the solution of a system of linear equations on modern multi-core computers. The need for such programs arises during the modeling of liquid filtration processes in porous rocks. The best solutions will be used in Rosneft’s science-intensive software: RN-SIGMA, RN-KIM, and RN-GRID.

    Participants will need skills in solving systems of linear algebraic equations using numerical methods.

    Details about the IT Marathon and registration on the website https://events.rn.digital/hack/Academic2025.

    In addition to the Academic Tournament, the IT Competition Marathon will include the Geonavigation League, the Student Hackathon, competitions in information modeling among Rosneft specialists, and for the first time, the Cup in Additive Technologies and Reverse Engineering, the final of which will take place in September at the Tyumen Industrial and Energy Forum TNF-2025.

    The winners and prize winners of all IT Marathon competitions will meet in December at the grand finale in Moscow.

    Conducting specialized competitions allows Rosneft to solve real production problems, attracting highly qualified specialists and talented youth to cooperation. For participants, this is an opportunity to prove themselves at the all-Russian level and create original solutions that will find application in modern digital technologies of the oil and gas industry.

    The organizers of the IT Marathon in 2025 are the Rosneft Research Institute in Ufa and RN-Technologies.

    Department of Information and Advertising of PJSC NK Rosneft April 10, 2025

    Please note: This information is raw content directly from the source of the information. It is exactly what the source states and does not reflect the position of MIL-OSI or its clients.

    MIL OSI Russia News –

    April 11, 2025

  • MIL-OSI Europe: Ministers Burke and Dillon announce new measures to support the transport sector

    Source: Government of Ireland – Department of Jobs Enterprise and Innovation

    11th April 2025

    The Minister for Enterprise, Tourism and Employment, Peter Burke, has signed regulations making changes to the employment permits system to address skills shortages in Ireland’s transport sector. The quota for car mechanics will increase by 200, the quota for HGV and Bus mechanics by 200, and the quota for vehicle body builders and repairers has increased by 50. The changes came into effect on Monday, 7 April.

    Minister for Enterprise, Tourism and Employment, Peter Burke said:

    “I am pleased to announce that I have increased quotas for Car mechanics and HGV/Bus mechanics by 200 employment permits each and Vehicle body builders and repairers by 50 permits. Car mechanics play a vital role in ensuring that Ireland’s private car fleet is safe for all road users. HGV/Bus mechanics and Vehicle body builders and repairers are both necessary to support the extension of our public transport services including the BusConnects program, which aims to provide a significant expansion of routes and increased 24-hour operations for public transport. The planned transition to alternative power vehicles will also require access to skilled mechanics. Ensuring that there is a sufficient workforce to maintain these new vehicles will play a vital role in the delivery of this program.”

    Minister of State for Small Businesses and Retail, Alan Dillon said:

    “The increase to these quotas will help us to secure additional skilled workers to help deliver our ambitious public transport goals, as well as improving the roadworthiness of the private car fleet. This measure will help to ensure the safety and reliability of both public transport and the private car fleet and help to ensure that we meet our public transport goals.”

    Notes for editor

    The Employment Permits System

    Ireland’s policy is to promote the sourcing of labour and skills needs from within the workforce of Ireland, the European Union and other European Economic Area (EEA) states. Policy in relation to applications for employment permits remains focused on facilitating the recruitment from outside the EEA of skilled and highly skilled personnel, where the requisite skills cannot be met by normal recruitment or by training. Employment permit policy is part of the response to addressing skills deficits which exist and are likely to continue into the medium term, but it is not intended over the longer term to act as a substitute for meeting the challenge of up-skilling the State’s resident workforce, with an emphasis on the process of lifelong learning, and on maximising the potential of EEA nationals to fill our skills deficits.

    The Occupations Lists

    For the purposes of the employment permits system, occupations fall into three categories:

    1. Occupations listed on the Critical Skills Occupations List are highly skilled professional roles that are in high demand and are not always available in the resident labour force. Occupations on this list are eligible for a Critical Skills Employment Permit (CSEP) and include roles such as medicine, ICT, sciences, finance, and business.
    2. Occupations listed on the Ineligible Occupations List (IOL) are those with evidence suggesting there are sufficient Irish/EEA workers to fill such vacancies. Employment permits are not granted for these occupations. Some roles are removed from the IOL subject to quota, in order to sustainably integrate a new source of workers into the labour market and to test the labour market needs.
    3. Every other job in the labour market, where an employer cannot find a worker, is eligible for an employment permit. For these occupations, the employer is required to undertake a Labour Market Needs Test and if no-one suitable applies for the job, the employer is free to apply for an employment permit. Occupations such as these may be skills of a more general nature and are eligible for a General Employment Permit (GEP).

    ENDS

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    MIL OSI Europe News –

    April 11, 2025

  • MIL-OSI Russia: Large language models no longer require powerful servers

    Translartion. Region: Russians Fedetion –

    Source: State University Higher School of Economics – State University Higher School of Economics –

    Scientists from Yandex, HSE, MIT, KAUST and ISTA have made a breakthrough in LLM optimization. The Yandex Research artificial intelligence laboratory, together with leading scientific and technological universities, has developed a method for quickly compressing large language models (LLM) without losing quality. Now, a smartphone or laptop is enough to work with the models, and there is no need to use expensive servers and powerful GPUs.

    The method allows for quick testing and implementation of new solutions based on neural networks, saving time and money on development. This makes LLM more accessible not only for large companies, but also for small ones, non-profit laboratories and institutes, individual developers and researchers.

    Previously, to run a language model on a smartphone or laptop, it was necessary to quantize it on an expensive server, which took several weeks. Now, quantization can be done directly on a phone or laptop in a matter of minutes.

    Difficulties in applying LLM

    The difficulty with using large language models is that they require significant computing resources. This is also true for open-source models. For example, one of them, the popular DeepSeek-R1, does not fit even on expensive servers designed for working with artificial intelligence and machine learning. This means that only a limited number of companies can use large models, even if the model itself is openly available.

    The new method allows you to reduce the size of the model while maintaining its quality and run it on more affordable devices. For example, this method can be used to compress even such large models as DeepSeek-R1 with 671 billion parameters and Llama 4 Maverick with 400 billion parameters, which until now could only be quantized using the simplest methods with a significant loss in quality.

    The new quantization method opens up more opportunities for using LLM in various fields, especially where resources are limited, such as education or the social sphere. Startups and independent developers can now use compressed models to create innovative products and services without spending money on expensive equipment. Yandex itself is already using the new method for prototyping — creating working versions of products and quickly testing ideas: compressed models are tested faster than their original versions.

    More about the new method

    The new quantization method is called HIGGS (from Hadamard Incoherence with Gaussian MSE-optimal GridS). It allows neural networks to be compressed without using additional data and without computationally complex parameter optimization. This is especially useful in situations where there is not enough suitable data to further train the model. The method provides a balance between quality, model size, and quantization complexity, which allows models to be used on a wide range of devices.

    The method has already been tested on popular models Llama 3, Llama 4 and Qwen 2.5. Experiments have shown that HIGGS is the best quantization method in terms of quality to model size ratio among all existing data-free quantization methods, including GPTQ (GPT Quantization) and AWQ (Activation-Aware Quantization).

    Scientists from the National Research University Higher School of Economics, the Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT), the Austrian Institute of Science and Technology (ISTA), and the King Abdullah University of Science and Technology (KAUST, Saudi Arabia) participated in the development of the method.

    The HIGGS method is now available to developers and researchers at Higging Fake And Gitkhov, and a scientific article about it can be read at archive.

    Reaction of the scientific community, other methods

    A scientific article describing the new method has been accepted to one of the world’s largest conferences on artificial intelligence, NAACL (The North American Chapter of the Association for Computational Linguistics), which will be held from April 29 to May 4, 2025, in Albuquerque, New Mexico, USA. Along with Yandex, such companies and universities as Google, Microsoft Research, Harvard University, and others will participate. The article has already been cited by the American company Red Hat AI, Peking University, Hong Kong University of Science and Technology, Fudan University, and others.

    Earlier, Yandex scientists presented 12 scientific studies in the field of quantization of large language models. In this way, the company aims to make the use of these models more efficient, less energy-consuming and accessible to all developers and researchers. For example, the Yandex Research team previously developed methods compression of large language models, helping to reduce computing costs by almost eight times without significantly losing the quality of neural network responses. The team also created service, which allows you to run a model with 8 billion parameters on a regular computer or smartphone through a browser interface even without large computing power.

    Please note: This information is raw content directly from the source of the information. It is exactly what the source states and does not reflect the position of MIL-OSI or its clients.

    MIL OSI Russia News –

    April 11, 2025

  • MIL-OSI China: Experts highlight future of cell and gene therapy at IQ Talk event

    Source: China State Council Information Office 2

    An IQ Talk seminar titled “Future Medical Care: Cell and Gene Therapy” was held Thursday in Beijing, bringing together experts to discuss advances and challenges in cell and gene therapy (CGT).
    Zhou Qi, academician and vice president of the Chinese Academy of Sciences, and president of the University of the Chinese Academy of Sciences, delivered a keynote report entitled “Frontiers, Challenges and Talent Development in Biotechnology.”
    Zhou highlighted global trends in science and technology, shifts in research paradigms, and opportunities for China in emerging fields such as artificial intelligence, synthetic biology and brain-computer interfaces. He also provided updates on CGT progress and talent cultivation, emphasizing the need for integrated development across education, science and industry.
    Experts noted that CGT drugs represent a new frontier in biopharmaceutical innovation, following small molecule and antibody-based therapies. As major economies worldwide prioritize CGT as a strategic focus, Beijing’s advantages in original innovation and clinical resources position the city as a leader in CGT development.
    During the exchange session, participants engaged in in-depth discussions on key aspects of the CGT sector, including cutting-edge technologies and applications, industrial development strategies, and talent cultivation and recruitment.
    Representatives from leading CGT companies also showcased their latest research and development achievements on-site, providing valuable insights into the current state and future potential of the sector.
    IQ Talk is an international collaboration initiative established by the National Torch Academy of Innovation and Entrepreneurship (ZGC) to support Beijing’s development of future industries.

    MIL OSI China News –

    April 11, 2025

  • MIL-Evening Report: Could changing your diet improve endometriosis pain? A recent study suggests it’s possible

    Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Evangeline Mantzioris, Program Director of Nutrition and Food Sciences, Accredited Practising Dietitian, University of South Australia

    ovchinnikova_ksenya/Shutterstock

    Endometriosis affects around 10% of women of reproductive age. It’s a chronic inflammatory condition that occurs when tissue similar to the lining of the uterus (the endometrium) grows outside the uterus.

    Endometriosis can cause chronic pain, bloating, bowel and bladder dysfunction, pain during sex and infertility. These symptoms can lead to reduced quality of life and mental health challenges.

    Although endometriosis pain can be treated with medication or surgery, these options are not suitable for everyone, and a significant number of women experience recurrent symptoms even after surgery.

    Many women with endometriosis look to complementary therapies to manage their symptoms, which can include dietary changes and taking supplements.

    A recent study sought to understand different dietary strategies women with endometriosis use and how these affect their pain levels. The researchers found cutting down on things like dairy, gluten, caffeine and alcohol could improve endometriosis pain.

    Let’s take a closer look.

    What the researchers did and found

    The study, which was led by researchers from the University of Edinburgh, involved an online survey. It asked women with endometriosis questions about any dietary changes they made and any supplements they used, and whether they found these useful for managing pain.

    A total of 2,388 women with a confirmed diagnosis of endometriosis completed the survey. Some 84% of respondents had made at least one dietary change, 67% of whom reported these changes improved their pain. Meanwhile, 59% had used supplements, 43% of whom considered these changes improved their pain.

    The following are some of the most popular dietary changes women had tried, and how they thought these changes affected their pain:

    • drinking less alcohol (improved pain in 53% of women)

    • eating less gluten (45%)

    • consuming less dairy (45%)

    • consuming less caffeine (43%)

    • eating less processed sugar, which can be found in foods and drinks such as lollies, cakes, biscuits and soft drinks (41%)

    • eating less processed foods, which include deli meats, savoury snacks such as chips and sausage rolls, and chocolate (38%)

    • following a low FODMAP diet, which involves avoiding short-chain carbohydrates (certain types of sugars) to reduce gas, bloating, pain and discomfort (32%)

    • adopting a Mediterranean diet, which is a diet high in plant foods (including fruit and green leafy vegetables), extra virgin olive oil, breads, fish, fermented dairy, and cereals and low in red meat, and processed meats and foods (29%).

    For supplements:

    • turmeric or curcumin, the active ingredient in turmeric (improved pain in 48% of women)

    • magnesium (32%)

    • peppermint (26%)

    • ginger (22%).

    Around one in ten women of reproductive age have endometriosis.
    Drazen Zigic/Shutterstock

    Some limitations

    There are some weaknesses in this study to consider when interpreting the results. First, it’s an observational study, which means we cannot say these dietary changes and supplements cause decreased pain, just that there appears to be an link.

    To be more confident about the effects of dietary changes or supplements, we would need to do randomised studies with control groups.

    Also, the participants self-reported dietary changes they had made in the past and past pain levels. This relies on memory, which can be unreliable.

    All that said, this sort of research does provide us with clues about what may work, especially when we combine it with our knowledge of the actions these foods and supplements have in the body.

    So how would they work?

    Given the inflammatory component in endometriosis, the findings of this study are not entirely surprising. Many of the dietary changes and supplements this study looked at have anti-inflammtory properties.

    For example, reducing alcohol consumption, reducing processed foods, adopting a Mediterranean diet and using turmeric or curcumin may reduce inflammation.

    It’s possible certain dietary changes could improve endometriosis symptoms by reducing inflammation.
    PeopleImages.com – Yuri A/Shutterstock

    Some of the findings of this study seem to align with other evidence, while others don’t.

    For example, a recent review showed the Mediterranean diet can lead to reductions in pain, however the relevant studies did not have control groups. This same review showed a low FODMAP diet reduced pain and improved quality of life in people with endometriosis.

    Meanwhile, a 2024 paper concluded there’s a lack of evidence to support a gluten-free diet for endometriosis symptoms. The authors argued avoiding gluten to manage the condition should be discouraged.

    Peppermint has been reported to reduce period pain and nausea. But I couldn’t find any specific evidence for endometriosis.

    So what should you do?

    If you have endometriosis, this study and existing evidence suggests following a Mediterranean diet or a low FODMAP diet may reduce pain. This current study also indicates reducing your intake of alcohol, sugar and processed foods may help.

    Importantly, these changes won’t do any harm to your overall health. In fact, the Australian dietary guidelines recommend drinking alcohol and consuming processed foods in moderation, given links to a range of chronic diseases. So these changes may have other benefits too.

    However, some of the dietary changes reported in this study may be problematic.

    For example, eliminating dairy will significantly reduce your calcium intake which is important for building healthy bones and reducing the risk of osteoporosis in later life. However, there are other ways of ensuring an adequate intake of the nutrients found in dairy products.

    Reducing caffeine won’t lead to any health or nutritional concerns, but may affect quality of life for people who enjoy drinking coffee or tea.

    Women with endometriosis can try supplements such as turmeric or curcumin and ginger, but it’s best to try them one at a time, so you can identify which one works for you.

    If you’re looking to change your diet to try to manage endometriosis symptoms, it may be best to see a registered or accredited practising dietitian to ensure you’re following a nutritionally balanced diet.

    Evangeline Mantzioris is affiliated with Alliance for Research in Nutrition, Exercise and Activity (ARENA) at the University of South Australia. Evangeline Mantzioris has received funding from the National Health and Medical Research Council, and has been appointed to the National Health and Medical Research Council Dietary Guideline Expert Committee.

    – ref. Could changing your diet improve endometriosis pain? A recent study suggests it’s possible – https://theconversation.com/could-changing-your-diet-improve-endometriosis-pain-a-recent-study-suggests-its-possible-253945

    MIL OSI Analysis – EveningReport.nz –

    April 11, 2025

  • MIL-OSI USA: Duckworth, Klobuchar, Capito, Colleagues Press FAA on Recent System Outages

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Illinois Tammy Duckworth
    April 10, 2025
    [WASHINGTON, D.C.] – U.S. Senator Tammy Duckworth (D-IL)—a member of the U.S. Senate Committee on Commerce, Science and Transportation (CST) and Ranking Member of the CST Aviation Subcommittee—joined U.S. Senators Amy Klobuchar (D-MN), Shelley Moore Capito (R-WV) and Jerry Moran (R-KS), along with U.S. Representatives Pete Stauber (R-MN-08) and Mark DeSaulnier (D-CA-10), in pressing Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) Acting Administrator Chris Rocheleau on the recent Notice to Airmen (NOTAM) system outages and the status of past-due upgrades to the system. In the letter, the lawmakers underscored the importance of modernizing this system to keep pilots and millions of passengers who fly every day safe.
    “We write to you to request information on the recent temporary outages of the Notice to Airmen (NOTAM) system as well as an update on efforts to modernize the system,” said the lawmakers. “Pilots rely on the NOTAM system to remain aware of safety hazards on flight routes. This system is critical to the safety of the nearly 3 million passengers who fly over the U.S. every day.”
    The bipartisan NOTAM Improvement Act, which was signed into law in 2023, requires the FAA to establish a task force to strengthen the resiliency and cybersecurity of the NOTAM system, which alerts pilots of safety and location hazards on flight routes. The law now required the FAA to upgrade the NOTAM system and create a backup system by September 2024. While the backup system was put in place in July 2024, the required upgrade of the primary system has not yet been completed.
    Full text of the letter is available on Senator Duckworth’s website and below:
    Dear Acting Administrator Rocheleau: 
    We write to you to request information on the recent temporary outages of the Notice to Airmen (NOTAM) system as well as an update on efforts to modernize the system. 
    Pilots rely on the NOTAM system to remain aware of safety hazards on flight routes. This system is critical to the safety of the nearly 3 million passengers who fly over the U.S. every day. That’s why, following the 2023 outage that led to 1,300 cancelled flights and nearly 10,000 delays, Congress passed our legislation, the NOTAM Improvement Act, to require the FAA to implement a modernized NOTAM system and backup system by September 30, 2024. 
    As you know, the primary NOTAM system experienced outages for several hours on February 1 and March 22. While we are pleased that the backup system is in place as of July 2024 and was successfully activated during that outage, we are concerned about the past due implementation of a modernized NOTAM system, as required by law.
    To better understand the recent outages and FAA’s progress toward implementing an upgraded NOTAM system, we request the following information: 
    What caused the recent NOTAM outages? What steps is the FAA taking to mitigate future outages? 
    How quickly was the backup system activated during the outages? How effective was the backup system, including its performance in comparison to the primary system? 
    Please provide an update on the FAA’s implementation of the NOTAM Improvement Act, particularly the status of efforts to implement an upgraded NOTAM system. 
    Travelers deserve flights that are safe and on time. We urge you to ensure that a modernized NOTAM system is implemented in a timely manner. Thank you for your attention to this important matter. 
    -30-

    MIL OSI USA News –

    April 11, 2025

  • MIL-OSI Russia: NSU students were told about the scientific discoveries of academician Mikhail Alekseevich Lavrentyev

    Translartion. Region: Russians Fedetion –

    Source: Novosibirsk State University – Novosibirsk State University –

    Meeting of students of Novosibirsk State University with the grandson of the founder of Akademgorodok, Doctor of Physical and Mathematical Sciences, Professor, Dean Faculty of Information Technology NSU Mikhail Mikhailovich Lavrentyev was held on April 4. It was dedicated to fascinating facts from the life of the founder of Akademgorodok, the academician, and was called “Scientific discoveries of academician Mikhail Alekseevich Lavrentyev. From mathematics, mechanics and physics of explosions to the first computers.”

    This year marks the 125th anniversary of the birth of the outstanding Soviet mathematician and mechanic, founder of the Siberian Branch of the USSR Academy of Sciences and the Novosibirsk Akademgorodok, Mikhail Alekseevich Lavrentyev. Residents of Akademgorodok cherish his memory. Currently, his name is borne by the Institute of Hydrodynamics of the Siberian Branch of the Russian Academy of Sciences, the SUNC (Physics and Mathematics School) of NSU, Lyceum No. 130, an auditorium at NSU…. A monument to the academician was erected on the avenue named in his honor.

    Mikhail Mikhailovich Lavrentyev began the meeting by listing the most important scientific achievements of Mikhail Alekseevich: the Lavrentyev effect in variational calculus, the lifting force of an airplane wing, conformal and quasi-comfort mappings, explanation of the cumulative effect, the first artillery nuclear shell, the first domestic computers, new materials – explosion welding, acceleration of particles to cosmic speeds, saving genetics, the fight for the purity of Lake Baikal, saving the city of Almaty (Kazakhstan) from a mudflow – the Medeu dam, the creation of new types of universities – PhysTech and NSU, the organization of the Siberian Branch of the USSR Academy of Sciences. And then he spoke in detail about some of them.

    Important contribution to the Victory

    Among the numerous awards of M.A. Lavrentyev is the Order of the Patriotic War, 2nd degree, which he was awarded in 1944. This Order was awarded to participants in military operations, but Mikhail Alekseevich was one of the few exceptions. He did not directly participate in the battles of the Great Patriotic War and was not at the front, but he made a significant contribution to the Great Victory as a talented scientist. The cumulative charges he developed became one of the factors that influenced the outcome of the Battle of Kursk (July 5 – August 23, 1943).

    — Previously, cumulative antitank aerial bombs were quite large in size, and domestic IL2 attack aircraft could take only a few of them on board, respectively, the maximum possible number of armored targets to be hit was also small. M.A. Lavrentyev proposed his own solution to the problem — the creation of a new generation of cumulative antitank aerial bombs, loaded into cassettes of 78 pieces. Lavrentyev’s PTABs were produced in Ufa, at the Prommetiz artel evacuated from Dnepropetrovsk. Each bomb weighed 2.5 kg and pierced up to 70 mm of armor with a cumulative pestle. This was enough to defeat the most protected Wehrmacht tanks: the armor thickness of the Panther on the turret was no more than 16 mm, and that of the Tiger — 28 mm. The PTABs from Ufa were first used in the Battle of Kursk, and they had a very worthy effect on the fascists – several hundred tanks were destroyed by air strikes, said M.M. Lavrentyev.

    It is important that instead of several heavy 100-kilogram anti-tank aerial bombs (PTAB), the IL2 attack aircraft carried 4 cassettes with 78 PTABs in each, which it literally “sprinkled” on German tanks from a height of 25 m. This ensured greater precision in the bombing strike and the safety of the aircraft itself, reducing to zero the risk of being shot down by the explosion of its own aerial bombs.

    Lavrentyev’s PTABs had another important advantage: unlike conventional aerial bombs made of expensive high-strength steel with a complex fuse, PTABs could theoretically be produced even in a wooden case. Therefore, they could be manufactured not at specialized factories, but in the most primitive conditions.

    The first nuclear artillery shell

    In the early 1950s, M. A. Lavrentyev was involved in the development of atomic weapons in the USSR. Work on the first domestic artillery nuclear projectile involved solving complex theoretical and experimental problems in hydrodynamics and gas dynamics, and preparing their solutions was a complex mathematical problem in itself. M. A. Lavrentyev was known as a major specialist in hydro- and gas dynamics, an outstanding mathematician, the founder of the theory of cumulative projectiles, and a well-known specialist in the use of explosives. Therefore, in 1953, he was transferred from the post of director of the Institute of Precision Mechanics and Computer Engineering to KB-11 (Arzamas-16, now the city of Sarov) to the post of deputy chief designer of the USSR Ministry of Medium Machine Building, which he held for two and a half years. During this time, M. A. Lavrentyev managed to create a creative team of young and talented specialists. Among them were Lev Vasilyevich Ovsyannikov, Dmitry Vasilyevich Shirkov, Vladimir Mikhailovich Titov and Bogdan Vyacheslavovich Voitsekhovsky. They later followed their leader to Akademgorodok and became academicians.

    — M.A. Lavrentyev’s scientific group faced a very difficult task: the projectile had to be compact in size compared to the products that had been created in this design bureau earlier, since they were to be used to load guns. At the same time, the projectile had to experience high overloads while maintaining combat capability. And these overloads were thousands of times greater than those typical for aerial bombs. Other difficulties arose, but the scientific team managed to successfully overcome them, and in 1956, an artillery shell with a nuclear charge successfully passed tests at the Semipalatinsk test site. As M.M. Lavrentyev said, the size of the projectile was still too large, so a gun of the corresponding caliber was specially made for it. Nowadays, similar weapons are installed on modern tanks, — M.M. Lavrentyev said.

    The first domestic computer

    In the 1950s, M.A. Lavrentyev took direct part in the creation of the first Soviet computer. At that time, he was the director of the Institute of Precision Mechanics and Computer Engineering of the Academy of Sciences, where the first computer, called BESM-1 (the first large electronic calculating machine), was being developed. But when performing this complex task, its developers faced competition from the relevant ministry, which at the same time was working on the creation of the Strela computer.

    — The competitors had many advantages, the most important of which was the financing of the work. In addition, 150 electron tubes were required to create BESM, which was a serious problem — about 100 tubes were issued per quarter to the entire Academy of Sciences, and it was impossible to acquire them in any other way. This issue was resolved thanks to the ingenuity of Sergei Alekseevich Lebedev, who is now considered the founder of domestic electronic computing technology. In 1950, he was invited to the Institute of Precision Mechanics and Computer Engineering of the USSR Academy of Sciences in Moscow by M.A. Lavrentyev. They went to the Minister of Radio Industry and asked: “Do consumers of tubes have many complaints against you?” He answered: “Yes, a lot. I believe that in most cases, tubes fail due to the fault of consumers.” Then S.A. Lebedev suggested: “Give us 150 lamps, we will have them in continuous operation, and we will inform you every month that the lamps are working well, and you will replace those lamps that burn out with new ones. The minister agreed, and the problem was solved,” M.M. Lavrentyev said.

    Tests of both machines were conducted in 1953. The advantages were again on the side of the competitors. All units of the new memory designed by S.A. Lebedev were addressed to the “Strela” by the decision from above, therefore the creators of BESM had to make the computer memory on the acoustic principle. This reduced its performance by 15-20 times. In addition, the chairman of the acceptance committee was the manager who had already created his own computing center for the “Strela”. And the first test results did not speak in favor of BESM. But M.A. Lavrentyev drew attention to the fact that one of the test tasks did not make sense. On this basis, he insisted on postponing the acceptance for six months and providing the BESM developers with units designed by S.A. Lebedev.

    — BESM was being improved for six months, after which it demonstrated significantly higher productivity: it solved all tasks assigned to it 5-8 times faster than Strela. In the competition between the two companies, the winner was not the one that had enough funds, people, and space, but the one that had progressive ideas. And BESM-1 became the predecessor of a series of domestic digital computers, — explained M.M. Lavrentyev.

    Throwing soil by explosion

    M.A. Lavrentyev made a significant contribution to saving the city of Almaty (Kazakhstan) from mudflows, which posed a serious danger. One of the evidences of this is the Issyk disaster that occurred on July 7, 1963. Then the mudflow caused the death of one and a half hundred Almaty residents.

    — Only one gorge was dangerous for mudflows. And it was proposed to create a protective dam in it by means of directed explosions. Several years before that, an article by several scientists, including M.A. Lavrentyev, was published in the journal “Applied Mechanics and Technical Physics” about the directed throwing of soil using explosives. This idea was implemented in this unique project, — said M.M. Lavrentyev.

    In 1964, the Kazakh branch of the Hydroproject Institute developed a project for a gravity rock-fill dam. Taking into account the experience of the 1963 mudflow, its design was significantly strengthened. M.A. Lavrentyev was among the scientific consultants of the project. As a result, for the first time in world practice, a 110-meter-high dam was created using directed explosions. The task was complicated by the terrain and seismic features of the area, but the creators of the dam coped – it withstood the mudflow that occurred shortly after the end of the work. To this day, the dam created by explosions protects Almaty from destructive mudflows.

    The students also learned how M.M. Lavrentyev managed to save the Institute of Cytology and Genetics of the Siberian Branch of the Russian Academy of Sciences from closure at a time when genetics was considered pseudoscience and was persecuted. They were also told about his other significant scientific achievements. However, M.M. Lavrentyev noted that Mikhail Alekseevich considered the creation of the NSU Physics and Mathematics School and the Young Technicians Club to be the most significant thing in his life. For him, the involvement of talented youth in scientific work was of primary importance.

    Please note: This information is raw content directly from the source of the information. It is exactly what the source states and does not reflect the position of MIL-OSI or its clients.

    MIL OSI Russia News –

    April 11, 2025

  • MIL-Evening Report: We study ‘planktivores’ – and found an amazing diversity of shapes among plankton-feeding fishes

    Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Isabelle Ng, PhD candidate, College of Science and Engineering, James Cook University

    A couple of whip coral goby (_Bryaninops yongei_). randi_ang/Shutterstock

    Swim along the edge of a coral reef and you’ll often see schools of sleek, torpedo-shaped fishes gliding through the currents, feeding on tiny plankton from the water column.

    For decades, scientists assumed these plankton-feeding fishes – or planktivores – shared specialised traits: forked tails and streamlined body forms for speed, large eyes for spotting small prey, and small extendable jaws for suction-feeding.

    But our new study, published in Reviews in Fish Biology and Fisheries, shows there is more nuance to this story. We found plankton-feeding fishes don’t follow a single uniform design. To our surprise, they display the widest range of body forms of any feeding group among reef fishes.

    Evolving similar traits

    A core idea in evolutionary theory since Charles Darwin is that species facing the same problem often evolve similar traits. This is a process known as convergent evolution. It explains the pattern we see among dolphins, sharks, and tunas – distantly related lineages unified in their streamlined body shape used for fast swimming.

    We set out to test whether the same phenomenon was true for plankton-feeding reef fishes. Planktivores are an ideal group to study in this case.

    For one, plankton-feeding is the most common feeding group among reef fishes – giving us many distantly related species to compare. For another, they all share the same challenge of having to spot and suck out small prey from the water column.

    Yellowtail Fusilier (Caesio cuning).
    Subphoto.com/Shutterstock

    So we asked: do plankton-feeding fishes have a distinct body shape? And do patterns of convergence hold true across a diversity of plankton-feeding reef fishes?

    The broadest range of body shapes

    To answer these questions, we collected shape data from nearly 300 species of reef fishes from 12 globally distributed families – including surgeonfishes, wrasses, snappers, and damselfishes. We measured 15 feeding, swimming, and vision-related traits such as jaw length, tail shape, and pupil size.

    By combining these measurements with evolutionary trees, we tested whether plankton-feeding fishes were distinct in shape to their counterparts.

    But what we found surprised us. Plankton-feeding fishes aren’t converging on a specific body shape. It is quite the opposite – they display the broadest range of body shapes among reef fishes. Some species – such as the schooling fusiliers – truly fit the typical “plankton-feeding” model. They exhibit traits such as a forked tail, torpedo-shaped body, large eyes, and small, extendable jaws.

    But most others break the mould entirely. For example, tiny gobies – just three centimetres long – cling onto whip corals and adopt a sit-and-wait approach for plankton to pass by.

    Other deep-bodied damselfishes depart a small distance from their coral hosts to feed on plankton. But how can we explain this diversity of planktivore body shapes?

    Blotcheye soldierfish (Myripristis berndti).
    Jnichanan/Shutterstock

    An innate ability

    The answer lies in the vast diversity of their behaviours and environments.

    Their body shape isn’t dictated by plankton-feeding alone – it’s shaped by where, when and how they feed. Some planktivores feed during the day, others at night. Some inhabit deep reefs, others are mere metres below the surface of the water. Some are restricted to rubble slopes while others prefer the reef edge. Some even target specific sizes and types of the plankton itself.

    This diversity in activity patterns, habitat use, and prey preferences places different demands on their body forms – explaining why we see such a range of shapes and sizes among plankton-feeding fishes.

    Even species we don’t typically think of as planktivores will feed on plankton when the chance arises. Just last year, while on Lizard Island, we watched yellowmask surgeonfishes – normally feeding on algae and detritus – swimming high above the reef, targeting plankton.

    Perhaps this flexibility shouldn’t surprise us. After all, all reef fishes begin their lives as plankton feeders, floating in the open ocean before settling on the reef. The ability for fishes to feed on plankton is likely innate.

    Yellow mask surgeonfish (Acanthurus mata).
    Marco Lissoni/Shutterstock

    Challenging a longstanding assumption

    Our findings challenge the longstanding assumption that planktivorous reef fishes are distinct in form and are converging towards an optimum body type.

    Instead, plankton-feeding is a highly accessible and flexible feeding strategy on coral reefs – available to fishes of many shapes, sizes, evolutionary histories, and even different feeding groups.

    This has important implications for how we think about reef fish ecology and evolution. It shows that broad feeding categories like “planktivore” can mask the diversity of other behavioural and ecological traits.

    Rather than converging on a single solution, reef fishes highlight something different: that there is more than one way to be a planktivore.

    Isabelle Ng receives funding from the James Cook University Postgraduate Research Scholarship.

    Alexandre Siqueira receives funding from Edith Cowan University as a Vice-Chancellor’s Research Fellow.

    – ref. We study ‘planktivores’ – and found an amazing diversity of shapes among plankton-feeding fishes – https://theconversation.com/we-study-planktivores-and-found-an-amazing-diversity-of-shapes-among-plankton-feeding-fishes-254296

    MIL OSI Analysis – EveningReport.nz –

    April 11, 2025

  • MIL-OSI China: New dinosaur species identified in Liaoning

    Source: China State Council Information Office 2

    A simulated picture of the two dinosaurs walking, Sinosauropteryx lingyuanensis (R) and Huadanosaurus sinensis (L), found in Lingyuan, Liaoning province. [Photo/China Daily]
    Chinese scientists have identified two new dinosaur species in Northeast China, shedding light on the evolution of small, feathered theropods and the remarkable diversity of the 125-million-year-old Jehol Biota.
    The research, published in the National Science Review, details the discovery of Sinosauropteryx lingyuanensis, a new species, and Huadanosaurus sinensis, a new genus and species, both found in Lingyuan, Liaoning province.
    A key finding of the study reveals the first direct evidence of dinosaur-mammal predation in this ancient ecosystem. The fossil of Huadanosaurus sinensis contained the remains of two mammals: a complete skeleton of a eutriconodont and fragments of a eutherian.
    “Huadanosaurus had robust jaws and powerful neck muscles, suggesting it could swiftly kill prey through its strong biting force, enabling it to hunt mammals efficiently,” said Qiu Rui, a lead author and associate researcher at the Natural History Museum of China.
    This predatory behavior contrasts with other related dinosaurs. Sinosauropteryx prima, which was about 1 meter long, preyed on lizards, while the larger Sinocalliopteryx gigas, at 2.4 meters in length, consumed dromaeosaurs. This division of hunting strategies within a single dinosaur lineage is considered highly unusual.
    The study also revises the classification of these feathered dinosaurs, reinstating Sinosauropterygidae as a distinct group. Previously, they were grouped under Compsognathidae, a classification now deemed inaccurate.
    “Our analysis of 504 theropod species shows that Jehol’s sinosauropterygids form a unique branch at the base of Coelurosauria,” said Wang Xiaolin, a researcher at the Institute of Vertebrate Paleontology and Paleoanthropology of the Chinese Academy of Sciences and a corresponding author of the study.
    The researchers connect the diversification of these dinosaurs to tectonic shifts that occurred 125 million years ago. The destruction of the North China Craton created isolated rift basins, intensifying competition among species.
    “In most Mesozoic ecosystems, a single dinosaur lineage occupied one niche. But here in Liaoning, sinosauropterygids evolved three hunting strategies, while distantly related groups like dromaeosaurs and tyrannosaurs overlapped in similar roles,” said Zhou Zhonghe, a researcher at IVPP and a co-author of the study.
    This “diversification within lineages, competition between lineages” model explains the extraordinary diversity of the Jehol Biota, surpassing other known dinosaur ecosystems, researchers said.
    The findings highlight the crucial role of China’s fossil-rich regions in understanding evolutionary history. The research was supported by the National Natural Science Foundation of China and the Chinese Academy of Sciences.

    MIL OSI China News –

    April 11, 2025

  • MIL-Evening Report: ER Report: A Roundup of Significant Articles on EveningReport.nz for April 11, 2025

    ER Report: Here is a summary of significant articles published on EveningReport.nz on April 11, 2025.

    Do Inuit languages really have many words for snow? The most interesting finds from our study of 616 languages
    Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Charles Kemp, Professor, School of Psychological Sciences, The University of Melbourne Shutterstock Languages are windows into the worlds of the people who speak them – reflecting what they value and experience daily. So perhaps it’s no surprise different languages highlight different areas of vocabulary. Scholars have noted

    Labor gains 5-point lead in a YouGov poll, taken during Trump tariff chaos
    Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Adrian Beaumont, Election Analyst (Psephologist) at The Conversation; and Honorary Associate, School of Mathematics and Statistics, The University of Melbourne A national YouGov poll, conducted April 4–10 from a sample of 1,505, gave Labor a 52.5–47.5 lead, a 1.5-point gain for Labor since the March 28 to

    Better cleaning of hospital equipment could cut patient infections by one-third – and save money
    Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Brett Mitchell, Professor of Nursing and Health Services Research, University of Newcastle Annie Spratt/Unsplash Hospital-acquired infections are infections patients didn’t have when they were admitted to hospital. The most common include wound infections after surgery, urinary tract infections and pneumonia. These can have a big impact for

    As more communities have to consider relocation, we explore what happens to the land after people leave
    Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Christina Hanna, Senior Lecturer in Environmental Planning, University of Waikato Christina Hanna, CC BY-SA Once floodwaters subside, talk of planned retreat inevitably rises. Within Aotearoa New Zealand, several communities from north to south – including Kumeū, Kawatiri Westport and parts of Ōtepoti Dunedin – are considering future

    Extinctions of Australian mammals have long been blamed on foxes and cats – but where’s the evidence?
    Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Arian Wallach, Future Fellow in Ecology, Queensland University of Technology michael garner/Shutterstock In 1938, zoologist Ellis Le Geyt Troughton mourned that Australia’s “gentle and specialized creatures” were “unable to cope with changed conditions and introduced enemies”. The role of these “enemies” – namely, foxes and feral cats

    Yes, government influences wages – but not just in the way you might think
    Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By David Peetz, Laurie Carmichael Distinguished Research Fellow at the Centre for Future Work, and Professor Emeritus, Griffith Business School, Griffith University doublelee/Shutterstock Can the government actually make a difference to the wages Australians earn? A lot of attention always falls on the government’s submission to the Fair

    Sorry gamers, Nintendo’s hefty Switch 2 price tag signals the new normal – and it might still go up
    Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Ben Egliston, Senior Lecturer in Digital Cultures, Australian Research Council DECRA Fellow, University of Sydney Last week, Nintendo announced the June 5 release of its long anticipated Switch 2. But the biggest talking point wasn’t the console’s launch titles or features. At US$449 in the United States,

    A fair go for young Australians in this election? Voters are weighing up intergenerational inequity
    Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Dan Woodman, TR Ashworth Professor in Sociology, The University of Melbourne Securing the welfare of future generations seems like solid grounds for judging policies and politicians, especially during an election campaign. Political legacies are on the line because the stakes are so high. There is a real

    The Coalition prepares to soften Australia’s 2030 climate target, while reaffirming its commitment to the Paris Agreement
    Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Tony Wood, Program Director, Energy, Grattan Institute The Coalition has been forced to reassert its commitment to the Paris climate agreement after its energy spokesman Ted O’Brien appeared to waver on the pledge on Thursday. O’Brien faced off against Climate Change and Energy Minister Chris Bowen at

    Grattan on Friday: Will there be leadership changes on both sides of politics next parliamentary term?
    Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Michelle Grattan, Professorial Fellow, University of Canberra When Jim Chalmers and Angus Taylor met for this week’s treasurers’ debate, the moderator observed that in three or six years they might be facing each other as prime minister and opposition leader. Election results trigger, or subsequently lead to,

    ‘Alarmist nonsense’: Labor and Coalition dismissed security risks over the Port of Darwin for years. What’s changed?
    Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By James Laurenceson, Director and Professor, Australia-China Relations Institute (UTS:ACRI), University of Technology Sydney Prime Minister Anthony Albanese and Opposition Leader Peter Dutton have both committed to stripping a Chinese company, Landbridge, of the lease to operate Darwin Port. Landbridge paid A$506 million for the 99-year lease from

    This chart explains why Trump backflipped on tariffs. The economic damage would have been huge
    Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By James Giesecke, Professor, Centre of Policy Studies and the Impact Project, Victoria University The Trump administration has announced a 90-day pause on its plan to impose so-called “reciprocal” tariffs on nearly all US imports. But the pause does not extend to China, where import duties will rise

    Big changes are planned for aged care in 2025. But you’d never know from the major parties
    Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Hal Swerissen, Emeritus Professor of Public Health, La Trobe University Ground Picture/Shutterstock There has been little new in pre-election promises for Australia’s aged-care workers, providers or the 1.3 million people who use aged care. In March, Labor announced A$2.6 billion for another pay rise for aged-care nurses

    Good boy or bad dog? Our 1 billion pet dogs do real environmental damage
    Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Bill Bateman, Associate Professor, Behavioural Ecology, Curtin University William Edge/Shutterstock There are an estimated 1 billion domesticated dogs in the world. Most are owned animals – pets, companions or working animals who share their lives with humans. They are the most common large predator in the world.

    A damning study of online abuse of female MPs shows urgent legal reform is needed
    Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Cassandra Mudgway, Senior Lecturer in Law, University of Canterbury Media Whale Stock/Shutterstock Women MPs are increasingly targets of misogynistic, racist and sexual online abuse, but New Zealand’s legal framework to protect them is simply not fit for purpose. Recently released research found online threats of physical and

    Fresh details emerge on Australia’s new climate migration visa for Tuvalu residents. An expert explains
    Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Jane McAdam, Scientia Professor and ARC Laureate Fellow, Kaldor Centre for International Refugee Law, UNSW Sydney The details of a new visa enabling Tuvaluan citizens to permanently migrate to Australia were released this week. The visa was created as part of a bilateral treaty Australia and Tuvalu

    ER Report: A Roundup of Significant Articles on EveningReport.nz for April 10, 2025
    ER Report: Here is a summary of significant articles published on EveningReport.nz on April 10, 2025.

    MIL OSI Analysis – EveningReport.nz –

    April 11, 2025

  • MIL-OSI USA: Senators Coons, Blunt Rochester, colleagues demand answers from the Trump administration regarding decision to cancel funding for Manufacturing Extension Partnership programs

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Delaware Christopher Coons

    WASHINGTON – U.S. Senators Chris Coons and Lisa Blunt Rochester (both D-Del.) joined a letter to Trump Commerce Secretary Howard Lutnick, led by Senator Maria Cantwell (D-Wash.), Ranking Member of the Senate Commerce Committee, demanding answers regarding the administration’s decision to cancel funding for 10 National Institute of Standards and Technology Hollings Manufacturing Extension Partnership (MEP) Centers across the country. In addition to Senators Coons, Blunt Rochester, and Cantwell, Senate Democratic Leader Chuck Schumer (D-N.Y.) and Senators Chris Van Hollen (D-Md.), Tammy Duckworth (D-Ill.), Martin Heinrich (D-N.M.), Mazie Hirono (D-Hawaii), Jacky Rosen (D-Nev.), Ben Ray Luján (D-N.M.), Brian Schatz (D-Hawaii), Ron Wyden (D-Ore.), Gary Peters (D-Mich.) and Dick Durbin (D-Ill.) also signed on.

    MEP Centers serve as a crucial bridge between small businesses and federal research facilities, providing businesses with key technologies and knowledge to improve manufacturing, make supply chains more efficient, and strengthen business practices. The affected centers in Delaware, Hawaii, Iowa, Kansas, Maine, Mississippi, Nevada, New Mexico, North Dakota and Wyoming have boosted the productivity and competitiveness of thousands of small American manufacturers across the country for decades. Delaware’s program has helped create or retain 423 jobs within the last year, and generate or maintain $34.3 million in sales and $42.5 million in new client investments.

    “Small manufacturers rely on MEP Centers for essential support in adopting the latest advanced technologies, updating their cybersecurity, navigating supply chain challenges, and accessing workforce training—resources that are often out of reach for small businesses without this dedicated assistance,” the senators wrote. “These centers drive innovation, boost productivity, and create high-quality jobs, strengthening both local economies and America’s global competitiveness. Without this critical federal support, MEP Centers—especially those with the fewest resources, and those serving rural and underserved communities—will be at the greatest risk of closure.

    Since 1988, the MEP has worked to strengthen and empower U.S. manufacturing through a nationwide network of MEP Centers. The MEP National Network is comprised of 51 MEP Centers located in all 50 states and Puerto Rico and over 1,450 trusted advisors and experts at more than 430 MEP service locations that provide any U.S. manufacturer with access to resources they need to succeed.

    The economic impact of these centers has been substantial. A report by Summit Consulting and the Upjohn Institute found that the MEP program generated an economic and financial return ratio of more than 17:1 on the $175 million in funding invested by the federal government in FY2023. The study also determined that MEP Centers contributed to an overall increase of nearly 309,000 jobs nationwide.

    The full letter can be read here and below.

    Dear Secretary Lutnick,

    We write to express our deep concern regarding the Department of Commerce’s recent decision to cancel future funding for ten National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST) Hollings Manufacturing Extension Partnership (MEP) Centers in Delaware, Hawaii, Iowa, Kansas, Maine, Mississippi, Nevada, New Mexico, North Dakota, and Wyoming. This decision has raised widespread concern across the entire national network of MEP Centers, prompting fears about whether these initial cancellations are the first step in a broader effort to dismantle the program and eliminate federal funding for all 51 centers, with centers in Colorado, Connecticut, Illinois, Indiana, Maryland, Michigan, New York, New Hampshire, North Carolina, Oklahoma, Oregon, Tennessee, Texas, Virginia, Washington, and Wisconsin expected to be notified about their status shortly. Given the MEP program’s long-standing, bipartisan support in strengthening small and medium-sized American manufacturers, we share these concerns and urge you to provide clarity and certainty on your plans for the future of the MEP program.

    According to the National Association of Manufacturers, 93% of manufacturers have fewer than 100 employees, while 75% have fewer than 20 employees.[1] Small manufacturers rely on MEP Centers for essential support in adopting the latest advanced technologies, updating their cybersecurity, navigating supply chain challenges, and accessing workforce training—resources that are often out of reach for small businesses without this dedicated assistance. These centers drive innovation, boost productivity, and create high-quality jobs, strengthening both local economies and America’s global competitiveness. Without this critical federal support, MEP Centers—especially those with the fewest resources, and those serving rural and underserved communities—will be at the greatest risk of closure.

    Dismantling this program would not only disrupt benefits for small businesses but also undermine decades of federal investment in domestic manufacturing resilience, which Congress prioritized in the MEP program in the Omnibus Trade and Competitiveness Act of 1988. Congress also reauthorized the MEP program in the CHIPS and Science Act of 2022. NIST was provided $175 million in Fiscal Year (FY) 2025 to fund the MEP Centers. In FY2024 alone, the MEP National Network resulted in $2.6 billion in cost savings, $15 billion in new and retained sales, $5 billion in new client investments, and over 108,000 jobs created or retained.[2] Additionally, a report by Summit Consulting and the Upjohn Institute found that the MEP program generated a substantial economic and financial return ratio of more than 17:1 for the $175 million funding invested by the federal government in FY2023. The study also determined that MEP Center projects contributed to an overall increase of nearly 309,000 jobs across the United States.[3]

    Given these benefits and the funding in the FY 2025 Continuing Resolution, we request a full explanation of the rationale behind this funding decision and ask that you promptly reconsider. Additionally, we urge the Department of Commerce to provide Congress with an impact assessment detailing how this decision will affect manufacturers in the affected states and regions. This action has caused tremendous uncertainty for all MEP Centers and the thousands of American manufacturing companies and their workers.  Therefore, to better understand your plans for renewals across other states in the future, we request a briefing on the way ahead for the overall MEP program prior to making any final non-renewal decisions by April 30, 2025. 

    Eliminating federal support for MEP Centers would hamper American small and medium-sized manufacturers. We urge you to take immediate action to protect the MEP program and the manufacturers that rely on it. We look forward to your response no later than April 30, 2025, and are ready to work with you to find solutions that maintain and enhance the MEP program’s ability to serve America’s manufacturing sector.

    Sincerely,

    MIL OSI USA News –

    April 11, 2025

  • MIL-OSI USA: Senator Murray, Cantwell, and Rep. Larsen Reintroduce Legislation to Permanently Reauthorize Northwest Straits Commission

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Washington State Patty Murray
    Senator Murray has worked tirelessly to fund the Northwest Straits Commission every single year since 1998
    Washington, D.C. — Today, Senators Patty Murray (D-WA), Vice Chair of the Senate Appropriations Committee, Maria Cantwell (D-WA), ranking member of the Senate Commerce, Science, and Transportation Committee and senior member of the Senate Finance Committee, and U.S. Representative Rick Larsen (D, WA-02), introduced the Northwest Straits Marine Conservation Initiative Reauthorization Act of 2025, legislation to permanently reauthorize the Northwest Straits Commission in the Puget Sound, and fund it at $10 million each fiscal year for the next six years, through Fiscal Year 2031. Joining Senator Murray, Senator Cantwell, and Rep. Larsen in introducing the legislation today was U.S. Representative Emily Randall (D, WA-06).
    The Northwest Straits Commission is a community-led effort to restore marine habitats in the Northwest Straits region and address local threats to marine environments with projects such as restoring shellfish populations, protecting vulnerable ecosystems, and promoting growth for native water and shore-based plants. The Northwest Straits Commission provides funding, training, and support to seven county-based Marine Resources Committees (MRCs) and 15 Tribes. The Commission advises local officials on how to best carry out environmental projects and provides expertise to community organizations to help them be partners in their work by, for example, training volunteers to identify forage fish spawning sites. Senator Murray led the authorization of the Northwest Straits Commission in 1998 and has secured federal funding for the Commission every single year in the decades since.
    “Ensuring our rich marine resources in the Northwest Straits stay healthy is critical not only for local communities and Tribes, but also for our economy in Washington state. That’s why I first established the Northwest Straits Commission in a bipartisan way back in 1998, and fight to secure funding for it every single year,” said Senator Murray. “The Commission remains a model for how successful investments in community-led restoration projects can be, and how vital they are for restoration work that help our marine habitats recover and thrive. I am excited to continue leading the charge to permanently authorize the Northwest Straits Commission with this legislation, which would also provide a strong and consistent funding stream for the Commission over the next decade—making sure partners on the ground can expand their efforts to protect our marine species and habitats and support our outdoor recreation economy. I’ll continue fighting every way I can to secure the federal funding necessary to protect our natural resources for generations to come.”
    “The Northwest Straits Commission has an impressive track record of community-led, well-executed projects that protect Washington state’s environment,” said Rep. Larsen, the lead Democrat on the House Transportation & Infrastructure Committee. “I am proud to support the Commission as it brings together a diverse group of local, state, tribal and federal stakeholders to restore marine habitats and create good jobs in Northwest Washington. I look forward to working with Senator Murray, Senator Cantwell and Rep. Randall to pass this bill to reauthorize the Commission so it can continue its important work for decades to come.”
    “The Northwest Straits bill is critical to supporting our robust coastal economy and fishing jobs, while preserving Washington’s coastal environment for generations to come,” Senator Cantwell said. “This legislation ensures we continue to support the health and sustainability of our diverse marine resources.”
    “From abalone beds and oysters, to the rugged coastline that stretches for hundreds of miles, folks from Washington’s 6th District know there’s no place quite like home. The Northwest Straits Commission has been a lifeline for our communities, providing critical resources like the Marine Resources Committees in Jefferson and Clallam counties, and working alongside Tribes all across the state,” said Rep. Randall. “Their collaborative efforts to restore and protect our marine habitats are a testament to what makes this place so special. I’m proud to co-lead this legislation to reauthorize and continue the Commission’s important work so we can continue working together to safeguard the precious marine resources that make our community and our state one-of-a-kind.”
    The Northwest Straits Commission is supported by a wide range of stakeholders, including state and federal agencies, elected leaders, and Tribal partners throughout the Puget Sound Region.
    “I am continually amazed by how well the Northwest Straits Initiative builds successful partnerships and brings people together to protect and restore the marine resources of Washington’s Northwest Straits region. Using a bottom-up approach, the Initiative encourages people and communities to take positive action, often as volunteers, to conserve our marine waters and shorelines,” said Lucas Hart, Director of Northwest Straits Commission. “Last year, we worked with over 70 partners and generated more than 10,000 volunteer hours to implement a range of local and regional marine resource stewardship projects. Sen. Murray’s legislation to reauthorize the Initiative will help continue these critical partnerships and ongoing volunteer engagement.”
    “The NWS Initiative connects across a wide range of partners to restore and recover Puget Sound ecosystems that support species like salmon and Dungeness crab. Achieving true restoration will require a collective effort, and the Initiative plays a key role by cultivating community-driven collaboration,” said Cecilia Gobin, Tribal Delegate to Northwest Straits Commission, and conservation policy analyst with the Northwest Indian Fisheries Commission. “This work is crucial to our region, which has a long history of relying on and enjoying marine resources. We are very happy to see Senator Murray moving forward with this reauthorization bill.”
    “The Northwest Straits Initiative is a unique bottom-up approach to marine resource stewardship in north Puget Sound. The work benefits commercial fishing, aquaculture, rural businesses, and recreational boating that all rely on healthy marine waters,” said Jamie Stevens, Governor’s appointee to Northwest Straits Commission.
    “Senator Murray has been a tireless advocate for Washington’s environment,” said Washington State Governor Bob Ferguson. “The Initiative brings together people representing different economic, recreational, and environmental interests to prevent derelict boats, restore native oysters, and control invasive green crab. The reauthorization bill will continue to help preserve Washington’s marine waters and shorelines for future generations.”
    “I have had the privilege of working for and with Senator Murray to develop and support the Northwest Straits Initiative. It is exciting to see this vital preservation work continue for nearly three decades,” said Casey Sixkiller, Director of Washington State Department of Ecology. “The Initiative has stood the test of time by empowering and helping local people steward the marine resources in their backyards. It has been invaluable in helping restore forage fish for salmon and better understanding the value of vibrant kelp forests in Puget Sound. I am incredibly thankful to Senator Murray for championing this important legislation.”
    “Since 1998, the Northwest Straits Initiative has been integral in working with communities across Puget Sound to restore marine resources,” said Alan Clark, Clallam County Marine Resources Committee. “By partnering with volunteers, Tribes, agencies, ports, and a variety of other partners, the Initiative has built a large network—from fishermen and Tribal biologists to educators and shellfish growers—working together to restore species like the Pinto abalone and promote stewardship through efforts like ‘Be Whale Wise.’ This growing community is the heart of lasting, effective marine conservation in our region.”
    “In Jefferson County we look to our MRC as local experts on marine issues. Through MRCs, the NW Straits Initiative serves a vital role in shaping local and regional policies, including our Comprehensive Plans and Shoreline Master Programs, and have proven themselves to be creative and thoughtful leaders on behalf of our marine environment,” said Heidi Eisenhour, Jefferson County Commissioner.
    “Eelgrass in the San Juans is struggling more than elsewhere in Puget Sound. We need to identify actions that preserve these critical habitats, but that also support a positive boating experience and provide for unhindered access to usual and accustomed treaty tribal fishing areas,” said Frances Robertson, San Juan Marine Resources Committee boater impact project lead. “Being recognized as a federal program highlights the important role of the Northwest Straits Initiative in uniting local communities, regional, (and transboundary) partners for marine conservation and restoration efforts that fosters a healthy and vibrant marine environment for all.”
    “We have deeply benefited from our partnership with the Northwest Straits Initiative over the years,” said Jodie Toft, Executive Director of Puget Sound Restoration Fund. “While the focus of our shared work has been on shellfish and kelp restoration, the Initiative’s support of local engagement in marine resource stewardship is broader. Their efforts have been invaluable as we all work towards preserving recreational and economic opportunities in Puget Sound. We are excited to see Senator Murray’s leadership to reauthorize this important program and ensure long-term community engagement for the marine waters and people of this region.”
    The Northwest Straits Commission was established following the bipartisan partnership of Senator Murray and former Congressman Jack Metcalf. Murray and Metcalf released a report in 1998 that laid the groundwork for the Northwest Straits Commission and its work protecting marine habitats, and later that year, Senator Murray successfully authorized the Northwest Straits Commission for a six-year period. Over the years, Senator Murray has helped secure tens of millions of dollars in federal funding for the Northwest Straits Commission’s restoration work and research—part of Senator Murray’s longtime, steadfast commitment to salmon recovery in the Pacific Northwest.
    Last year, as Chair of the Senate Appropriations Committee, Senator Murray secured $1 million for the Northwest Straits Initiative through programmatic funding in the appropriations bills she wrote and passed into law in March 2024—this was the first time Northwest Straits received programmatic funding since the original authorization expired in 2004, and is significant in helping to ensure the Commission is funded long into the future. In the appropriations bills for Fiscal Years 2022 and 2023, Senator Murray secured a total of $6 million in Congressionally Directed Spending (CDS) funding for the Northwest Straits Commission; that funding was essential to the removal of the “Windjammer” sailboat that had been partially submerged near the Kukutali Preserve since 2009 on Swinomish Tribal tideland. Prior to the return of Congressionally Directed Spending in Fiscal Year 2022, Murray ensured the Northwest Straits Commission received annual funding through the EPA’s Puget Sound Geographic Program. Prior to that, Murray secured CDS funding for the Northwest Straits Commission after the original authorization for the Commission expired in 2004.
    The text of the Northwest Straits Marine Conservation Initiative Reauthorization Act of 2025 is HERE.

    MIL OSI USA News –

    April 11, 2025

  • MIL-Evening Report: Do Inuit languages really have many words for snow? The most interesting finds from our study of 616 languages

    Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Charles Kemp, Professor, School of Psychological Sciences, The University of Melbourne

    Shutterstock

    Languages are windows into the worlds of the people who speak them – reflecting what they value and experience daily.

    So perhaps it’s no surprise different languages highlight different areas of vocabulary. Scholars have noted that Mongolian has many horse-related words, that Maori has many words for ferns, and Japanese has many words related to taste.

    Some links are unsurprising, such as German having many words related to beer, or Fijian having many words for fish. The linguist Paul Zinsli wrote an entire book on Swiss-German words related to mountains.

    In our recently-published study we took a broad approach towards understanding the links between different languages and concepts.

    Using computational methods, we identified areas of vocabulary that are characteristic of specific languages, to provide insight into linguistic and cultural variation.

    Our work adds to a growing understanding of language, culture, and the way they both relate.

    Japanese has many words related to taste. One of these is umami, which is often used to describe the rich taste of matcha green tea.
    Shutterstock

    Our method

    We tested 163 links between languages and concepts, drawn from the literature.

    We compiled a digital dataset of 1574 bilingual dictionaries that translate between English and 616 different languages. Since many of these dictionaries were still under copyright, we only had access to counts of how often a particular word appeared in each dictionary.

    One example of a concept we looked at was “horse”, for which the top-scoring languages included French, German, Kazakh and Mongolian. This means dictionaries in these languages had a relatively high number of

    1. words for horses. For instance, Mongolian аргамаг means “a good racing or riding horse”
    2. words related to horses. For instance, Mongolian чөдөрлөх means “to hobble a horse”.

    However, it is also possible the counts were influenced by “horse” appearing in example sentences for unrelated terms.

    Not a hoax after all?

    Our findings support most links previously highlighted by researchers, including that Hindi has many words related to love and Japanese has many words related to obligation and duty.

    ‘Silk’ was one of the most popular concepts for Mandarin Chinese.
    Shutterstock

    We were especially interested in testing the idea that Inuit languages have many words for snow. This notorious claim has long been distorted and exaggerated. It has even been dismissed as the “great Eskimo vocabulary hoax”, with some experts saying it simply isn’t true.

    But our results suggest the Inuit snow vocabulary is indeed exceptional. Out of 616 languages, the language with the top score for “snow” was Eastern Canadian Inuktitut. The other two Inuit languages in our data set (Western Canadian Inuktitut and North Alaskan Inupiatun) also achieved high scores for “snow”.

    The Eastern Canadian Inuktitut dictionary in our dataset includes terms such as kikalukpok, which means “noisy walking on hard snow”, and apingaut, which means “first snow fall”.

    The top 20 languages for “snow” included several other languages of Alaska, such as Ahtena, Dena’ina and Central Alaskan Yupik, as well as Japanese and Scots.

    Scots includes terms such as doon-lay, meaning “a heavy fall of snow”, feughter meaning “a sudden, slight fall of snow”, and fuddum, meaning “snow drifting at intervals”.

    You can explore our findings using the tool below, which allows you to identify the top languages for any given concept, and the top concepts for a particular language.

    Language and environment

    Although the languages with top scores for “snow” are all spoken in snowy regions, the top-ranked languages for “rain” were not always from the rainiest parts of the world.

    For instance, South Africa has a medium level of rainfall, but languages from this region, such as Nyanja, East Taa and Shona, have many rain-related words. This is probably because, unlike snow, rain is important for human survival – which means people still talk about it in its absence.

    For speakers of East Taa, rain is both relatively rare and desirable. This is reflected in terms such as lábe ||núu-bâ, an “honorific form of address to thunder to bring rain” and |qába, which refers to the “ritual sprinkling of water or urine to bring rain”.

    Our tool can also be used to explore various concepts related to perception (“smell”), emotion (“love”) and cultural beliefs (“ghost”).

    The top-scoring languages for “smell” include a cluster of Oceanic languages such as Marshallese, which has terms such as jatbo meaning “smell of damp clothing”, meļļā meaning “smell of blood”, and aelel meaning “smell of fish, lingering on hands, body, or utensils”.

    Prior to our research, the smell terms of the Pacific Islands had received little attention.

    Some caveats

    Although our analysis reveals many interesting links between languages and concepts, the results aren’t always reliable – and should be checked against original dictionaries where possible.

    For example, the top concepts for Plautdietsch (Mennonite Low German) include von (“of”), den (“the”) and und (“and”) – all of which are unrevealing. We excluded similar words from other languages using Wiktionary, but our method did not filter out these common words for Plautdietsch.

    Also, the word counts reflect both dictionary definitions and other elements, such as example sentences. While our analysis excluded words that are especially likely to appear in example sentences (such as “woman” and “father”), such words could have still influenced our results to some extent.

    Most importantly, our results run the risk of perpetuating potentially harmful stereotypes if taken at face value. So we urge caution and respect while using the tool. The concepts it lists for any given language provide, at best, a crude reflection of the cultures associated with that language.

    Charles Kemp was supported by a Future Fellowship (FT190100200) awarded by the Australian Research Council.

    Temuulen Khishigsuren was supported by a Future Fellowship (FT190100200) awarded by the Australian Research Council.

    Ekaterina Vylomova and Terry Regier do not work for, consult, own shares in or receive funding from any company or organisation that would benefit from this article, and have disclosed no relevant affiliations beyond their academic appointment.

    – ref. Do Inuit languages really have many words for snow? The most interesting finds from our study of 616 languages – https://theconversation.com/do-inuit-languages-really-have-many-words-for-snow-the-most-interesting-finds-from-our-study-of-616-languages-252522

    MIL OSI Analysis – EveningReport.nz –

    April 11, 2025

  • MIL-OSI USA: Padilla Delivers Keynote Address at AI Biotechnology Summit

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator Alex Padilla (D-Calif.)

    WATCH: Padilla emphasizes importance of American biotechnology leadership for national security and economyWASHINGTON, D.C. — Today, U.S. Senator Alex Padilla, a Commissioner of the bipartisan National Security Commission on Emerging Biotechnology (NSCEB), joined the AI+ Biotechnology Summit to deliver a keynote address on the future of biotechnology and artificial intelligence. Earlier this week, the Commission delivered their major report and action plan, urging Congressional action to bring the full weight of American innovation to improve and maintain U.S. global leadership in biotechnology.
    Key Excerpts
    The United States has long led the world in biotechnology progress, but Padilla underscored the growing threat posed by China’s skyrocketing investments in research and development (R&D) for biotechnological advancements. China’s biopharma R&D investments have risen from $35 million in 2015 to $15 billion today, and they now control 80 percent of global pharmaceuticals.
    “This is no longer hypothetical — we are at real risk of falling behind. Today, we need a molecular moonshot to get ahead, and stay ahead, in developing the biotech of the future. Why? Because our very national security is on the line.”
    “Every day that we allow China to drive the industry is another day American leadership in biotech falls behind. So we have an enormous problem set before us, there’s no denying it. But we also have an enormous opportunity before us, and I hope we seize it.”
    Padilla also highlighted California’s longstanding leadership in biotechnology, noting that more patents for bioscience and biotech are issued to California than any other state and that California’s life sciences companies continue to raise the most venture capitalism investment in the nation. He also discussed the crucial problems biotechnology can help solve, including agriculture, medicine, biofuels, food security, and more.
    He emphasized the importance of strengthening international collaboration to promote these essential biotechnology priorities as the Trump Administration pulls back from longstanding alliances and cuts ties with programs and partnerships that keep Americans safe.
    “You don’t have to have a PhD in foreign policy to understand that we cannot go at this alone. We understand the adage that ‘No Man Is an Island’ — and that when we pull back on our commitments, it’s not only wrong to our allies, it also creates a vacuum for our adversaries to fill. That’s true for our security, that’s true economically, and it is absolutely true for biotechnology.”
    “With the release of this report, my hope is that we can highlight just how dangerous it would be to pull back now. Instead of moving further away from our spot at the head of the table, we should be leveraging it to mobilize our allies.”
    Senator Padilla was appointed to serve as a Congressional Commissioner after Congress formed the Commission in the Fiscal Year 2022 National Defense Authorization Act. Yesterday, Padilla and the other Commissioners, Chair Senator Todd Young (R-Ind.) and Representatives Stephanie Bice (R-Okla.-05) and Ro Khanna (D-Calif.-17), introduced bipartisan, bicameral legislation to promote federal coordination on emerging biotechnology and streamline the regulatory structures currently inhibiting biotechnology innovation. Last year, Padilla and Young introduced a bipartisan package of bills focused on protecting America’s food security and agricultural supply chains, which are critical to U.S. national security. Padilla also announced the Commission’s first round of findings and recommendations for policymakers in an interim report outlining the promise of biotechnology for U.S. national security and economic competitiveness and growth.
    Video of Padilla’s remarks is available here.
    Padilla’s full remarks as prepared for delivery are available below:
    Good afternoon!
    It is so great to be here at the AI and biotechnology summit alongside members of the National Security Commission on Emerging Biotechnology to unveil our new report!
    I want to thank:
    My colleague and Chair of the Commission, Senator Todd Young
    Vice Chair, Dr. Michelle Rozo, who has been instrumental to all our Congressional engagements on both sides of the aisle
    And all of the other commissioners and staff who have worked so hard to make this day happen
    This is a report three years in the making. And my hope is that it can serve as a watershed moment for biotech in America and, as we’ll talk about later, for the world.
    I am proud to be here today as a commissioner. But I’m also proud to be here today as a U.S. Senator who represents California.
    California is the birthplace of biotech.
    Whether it’s the founding of Genentech in 1970s San Francisco, or a booming industry aided by researchers at Stanford, Berkeley, and UCSF.
    Even today, more patents for bioscience and biotech are issued to California than any other state.
    And our life sciences companies continue to raise more in venture capitalism investment than any other state.
    So you could say California has some experience here!
    And while my personal experience isn’t in biotech, I am one of the few Senators with a background in engineering.
    I earned my degree in mechanical engineering from the Massachusetts Institute of Technology.
    And to this day, people ask me, “How do you go from engineering to politics and government?”
    I tell them: “It’s perfectly logical. Engineers are trained to solve problems. Isn’t that what policymakers are supposed to do?”
    Today, we’ve got quite the problem set before us!
    It’s not just about the problems that biotech can help us solve — from agriculture to medicine to biofuels and more.
    It’s also the global technology competition we now find ourselves in with China.
    From artificial intelligence to biotechnology, the stakes are high — and the time to act is now.
    We are truly at an inflection point in biotechnology development.
    We’re making progress at a speed once unimaginable. And yet, we also know we’re at risk of falling behind.
    How can that be?
    It comes down to investment. And priorities.
    Over the last two decades, China has invested in biotechnological advancements.
    And as a result, as you may have heard today, China’s research and development have skyrocketed.
    In 2015, China’s biopharma R&D investment sat at 35 million dollars.
    Today, it’s 15 billion — that’s billion, with a “B.”
    China now controls 80 percent of global pharmaceuticals.
    This is no longer hypothetical — we are at real risk of falling behind.
    Today, we need a molecular moonshot to get ahead — and stay ahead — in developing the biotech of the future.
    Why? Because our very national security is on the line.
    Of course, that means investments in things Americans think about and interact with every single day — like the fruits and vegetables they count on to be safe to eat, and the supply chains they rely on every time they go to the grocery store.
    Because yes, food security is national security, too.
    In fact, that’s why just last spring, Senator Young and I came together to introduce a bipartisan package of bills to protect our food supply — which would establish a Senior Advisor for National Security within the USDA, and establish the USDA Office of Biotechnology policy.
    But it has to reach beyond food to things like energy sources, vaccines, and medicine.
    Because we can’t afford to find ourselves in a position where China controls a majority of the world’s pharmaceuticals — and then decides to turn off the spigot.
    Let’s say they wanted to retaliate for some hypothetical trade war a U.S. president was waging…
    But that’s what’s at stake! And we have to be clear-eyed and honest about the threats we face.
    And of course, the shadow hanging over any discussion of national security and biotech is the threat of biological war and bioterrorism.
    While we hope we never see it, warfare of the future won’t just be fought with AI and drones.
    It’ll be fought with bioweapons, too.
    We have a responsibility try to prepare and prevent that.
    Now, I know that in a few minutes you’ll have the opportunity to hear a discussion on the importance of allies in this fight.
    And it’s an important point! Because for as much progress as we’ve made as a nation, we can be that much stronger on the world stage if we’re pulling in the same direction as our allies.
    In fact, our Commission has already sent delegations to visit partners, including Sweden and the UK … whose ambassadors you will hear from shortly.
    But I also want to acknowledge that we’re in a strange moment in history for U.S. leadership.
    In just less than three months, the Trump Administration has dramatically pulled back from international alliances. They’ve cut ties with programs and partnerships that in many cases have kept us safe.
    And they have openly taunted and threatened our allies.
    But what I would say is this: you don’t have to have a PhD in foreign policy to understand that we cannot go at this alone.
    We understand the adage that “No Man Is an Island” — and that when we pull back on our commitments, it’s not only wrong to our allies, it also creates a vacuum for our adversaries to fill.
    That’s true for our security, that’s true economically, and it is absolutely true for biotechnology.
    With the release of this report, my hope is that we can highlight just how dangerous it would be to pull back now.
    Instead of moving further away from our spot at the head of the table, we should be leveraging it to mobilize our allies.
    We should be working with the State Department to not only fund international research and secure supply chains, but to also use them to promote American industry in foreign markets.
    We can and should be forming reciprocal biological data sharing agreements.
    Because together, the U.S. can learn more from other leading researchers.
    At the same time, we can build out our influence, so that other nations rely on our homegrown biotech hubs.
    And lastly, Congress should jump at the opportunity to write the rules of the road for biotech.
    Because every day that we allow China to drive the industry is another day American leadership in biotech falls behind.
    So we have an enormous problem set before us — there’s no denying it.
    But we also have an enormous opportunity before us, and I hope we seize it.
    With that, I want to thank you, again, for having me. And enjoy the rest of today’s summit.

    MIL OSI USA News –

    April 11, 2025

  • MIL-OSI USA: Sen. Markey and Rep. Castor Urge FTC to Open Investigation into New Allegations that Meta Violated COPPA

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Massachusetts Ed Markey

    New Petition and Whistleblower Statement Provide Evidence that Meta Knowingly Allowed Children to Use its VR Platform Horizon Worlds

       Letter Text (PDF)

    Washington (April 10, 2025) – Senator Edward J. Markey (D-Mass.), a member of the Commerce, Science, and Transportation Committee, and Representative Kathy Castor (FL-14), a member of the House Energy and Commerce Committee, wrote today to Federal Trade Commission (FTC) Chairman Andrew Ferguson urging the FTC to open investigation into allegations – in a petition submitted by advocacy organization Fairplay – that Meta violated the Children’s Online Privacy Protection Act (COPPA). The petition contains significant evidence that Meta and its executives knew children were using Horizon Worlds, its virtual reality (VR) platform, and yet failed to obtain parental consent before collecting their personal information, as COPPA requires. Additionally, an accompanying sworn statement by a new Meta whistleblower further suggests Meta intentionally ignored child users on Horizon Worlds and disregarded its obligations under COPPA.

    In the letter the lawmakers write, “The Fairplay petition raises serious and troubling allegations. According to the complaint, Meta has knowingly permitted large numbers of children under the age of 13 to access Horizon Worlds using standard adult accounts — accounts that do not require parental notice or consent and that permit extensive data collection.

    The lawmakers continue, “As the authors of the Children and Teens’ Online Privacy Protection Act (COPPA 2.0), we take these allegations with the utmost seriousness. Congress originally passed COPPA to safeguard children’s privacy in the face of evolving technological threats. Although the original law needs an update to account for those new threats, Meta appears to have blatantly violated the COPPA requirements. The volume of personal information collected from children in VR — including body movements, facial expressions, voice recordings, eye tracking, and environmental data — renders these allegations especially concerning. Moreover, VR platforms do not merely present screen-based content, they envelop young users in highly interactive, sensory-rich worlds that can blur the boundary between virtual and physical experiences. For those reasons, the allegations in the Fairplay petition deserve urgent attention from the FTC.”

    Senator Markey authored the Children’s Online Privacy Protection Act (COPPA) in 1998 and continuously fights for young people on online platforms. He and Senator Cassidy reintroduced their update to COPPA, the Children and Teens’ Online Privacy Protection Act (COPPA 2.0), in March 2025. In September 2024, the House Energy and Commerce Committee passed COPPA 2.0, co-led by Representative Castor, by a voice vote. In July 2024, the U.S. Senate passed the Kids Online Safety and Privacy Act, which included COPPA 2.0, by a 91-3 vote.

    MIL OSI USA News –

    April 11, 2025

  • MIL-OSI USA: FECM Leadership Advances New Strategic Priorities at Industry Events and National Laboratory Site Visits

    Source: US Department of Energy

    Blog

    FECM leadership has been engaging with stakeholders and staff across North America, introducing the Trump Administration’s priorities and their role in promoting energy abundance and security.

    Office of Fossil Energy and Carbon Management

    March 20, 2025

     min minute read time

    PDAS Tala Goudarzi and Deputy Assistant Secretary of Operations Vicki Michetti take a closer look at the groundbreaking projects underway at the NETL Albany campus.

    In recent weeks, U.S. Department of Energy Office of Fossil Energy and Carbon Management (FECM) leadership has been engaging with stakeholders and staff across North America, introducing the Trump Administration’s priorities and their role in promoting energy abundance and security.

    On February 11, Principal Deputy Assistant Secretary (PDAS) Tala Goudarzi, joined by Deputy Assistant Secretary of Operations Vicki Michetti, visited the National Energy Technology Laboratory (NETL) campus in Albany, Oregon to tour the facility and discuss the Administration’s energy agenda. The NETL-Albany campus is internationally recognized for its work in metallurgy and materials research, with a particular emphasis on processing critical minerals and alloys. Additionally, the campus explores and characterizes natural systems including natural gas hydrates and geothermal systems. 

    From left to right: Senior Advisor Derek Cohen, PDAS Tala Goudarzi, and Deputy Assistant Secretary of Operations Vicki Michetti learn about the innovative work being done at the NETL Morgantown campus.

    On February 27 and February 28, PDAS Goudarzi and Deputy Assistant Secretary of Operations Michetti visited NETL campuses in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania and Morgantown, West Virginia to discuss the role the laboratory will play in unleashing American energy innovation. From left to right: Senior Advisor Derek Cohen, PDAS Tala Goudarzi, and Deputy Assistant Secretary of Operations Vicki Michetti learn about the innovative work being done at the NETL Morgantown campus.

    PDAS Tala Goudarzi and Senior Advisor Derek Cohen engages with technical staff at the NETL Pittsburgh campus.

    The Pittsburgh campus focuses on process systems engineering, decision science, functional materials, and environmental sciences, with an emphasis on rare earth elements used in defense technology and staples of modern living. The Morgantown campus focuses on domestic coal, natural gas, and oil energy conversion and is also home to Joule 2.0—one of the fastest, largest and most energy-efficient supercomputers in the world. Pictured: PDAS Tala Goudarzi and Senior Advisor Derek Cohen engages with technical staff at the NETL Pittsburgh campus.

    FECM and International Affairs (IA) leadership stand in front of the FECM booth at the 2025 Prospectors & Developers Association of Canada

    The following week, on March 7, FECM’s Deputy Assistant Secretary for the Office of Resource Sustainability Ryan Peay and Senior Science Advisor Grant Bromhal attended the 2025 Prospectors & Developers Association of Canada (PDAC) Conference in Toronto, Canada. Peay and Bromhal met with the mining industry’s most influential experts and stakeholders to further explore the role of a secure, domestic critical minerals supply to strengthen energy security.

    On March 10, Secretary of Energy Chris Wright delivered keynote remarks at the 43rd annual CERAWeek by S&P Global, emphasizing the need to bolster American energy, with a particular focus on liquefied natural gas exports. The conference, which took place in Houston, Texas between March 10 and March 14, centered around the theme of “Moving Ahead: Energy strategies for a complex world.” Throughout the week, PDAS Goudarzi engaged on the ground with industry leaders, policymakers, and other experts about the role of FECM in ensuring national security.

    To keep up to date with future announcements and events, sign up for FECM news alerts and visit FECM’s website.

    MIL OSI USA News –

    April 11, 2025

  • MIL-OSI USA: FECM Attends 2025 Prospectors & Developers Association of Canada

    Source: US Department of Energy

    The Office of Fossil Energy and Carbon Management’s (FECM’s) Division of Minerals Sustainability is on the ground at the 2025 Prospectors & Developers Association of Canada (PDAC) conference in Toronto. This premier event focuses on global mineral exploration and serves as one of the largest and most widely recognized platforms for dialogue on critical minerals and the future of mining. 

    This week, Deputy Assistant Secretary for the Office of Minerals Sustainability, Ryan Peay and Senior Science Advisor, Grant Bromhal are engaging with representatives across the mining industry to discuss DOE’s efforts toward robust critical mineral supply networks. Ryan Peay is set to deliver the welcome and opening remarks and will participate in the highly anticipated Critical Minerals to Market: Strengthening North American Critical Mineral Supply Chains event sessions.

    FECM’s Division of Minerals Sustainability is actively advancing a research, development and demonstration portfolio aimed at increasing the domestic production and processing of critical minerals in the United States. By enhancing communication and fostering partnerships between the DOE and other industry stakeholders, FECM aims to expand U.S. access to affordable, reliable, resilient, and secure, and globally competitive critical minerals supply networks. 

    Learn more about FECM’s critical minerals efforts in our fact sheet.

    Be sure to visit the FECM website and follow us on Facebook, LinkedIn and Twitter for more information about our research and development efforts.

    MIL OSI USA News –

    April 11, 2025

  • MIL-OSI USA: Governor Polis Signs Laws to Improve Public Safety

    Source: US State of Colorado

    DENVER – Today, Governor Polis signed new laws to improve public safety in Colorado and strengthen the state’s workforce. The Governor signed SB25-003 – Semiautomatic Firearms & Rapid-Fire Devices, sponsored by Senators Tom Sullivan and Julie Gonzales, and Representatives Andrew Boesnecker and Meg Froelich, to improve public safety by enhancing gun safety education. The Governor also wrote a signing statement. 

    “I am focused on improving public safety and making Colorado one of the top ten safest states in the country. This bill ensures that our Second Amendment rights are protected and that Coloradans can continue to purchase the gun of their choice for sport, hunting, self-defense, or home defense. I am confident that this bill contributes to improving public safety in our state by helping to ensure an educated and trained gun owner community, including gun safety and safe storage,” said Governor Jared Polis. “This law is not a ban, and I have been clear that I oppose banning types of firearms. Proper gun safety education and training, however, are key components of public safety and responsible gun ownership.” 

    The Governor and his office worked with the sponsors, advocates, and Coloradans to improve the bill throughout the legislative session. As passed, this bill provides for lawful purchasers to undertake a gun safety education course prior to continuing to be able to purchase the gun of their choice starting in August 2026. 

    Governor Polis signed bills into law to strengthen the state’s resources for public safety, support Colorado youth, and enhance workforce development opportunities. 

    • SB25-059 – Supports for State Response to Mass Shootings, sponsored by Senators Tom Sullivan and Steven Woodrow, and Representative Michael Carter
    • SB25-151 – Measures to Prevent Youth from Running Away, sponsored by Senators Dafna Michaelson Jenet and Meg Froelich, and Representative Lindsay Gilchrist

     “These laws will ensure the state is prepared to support victims of crimes, and help Colorado youth in care sites get needed services to stay safe and healthy. Each of these new laws will improve public safety for communities across the state,” said Governor Polis. 

    These new laws add to a long line of laws signed by Governor Polis to improve public safety. This includes cracking down on auto theft and illegal guns, increasing funding for local law enforcement, community-led crime prevention efforts, safe storage, emergency risk protection order and more. 

    The Governor also signed HB25-1221 – Emily Griffith Associate of Applied Science Degree, sponsored by Representatives Eliza Hamrick and Lori Garcia Sander, and Senators Jeff Bridges and Paul Lundeen. 

    “This new credential can help connect more Coloradans to needed skills that lead to good-paying jobs. I appreciate the work of the sponsors on this legislation and look forward to seeing Coloradans take advantage of it,” said Governor Jared Polis. 

    Governor Polis also signed the following bipartisan bills administratively: 

    • SB25-015 – Wildfire Information & Resource Center Website, sponsored by Senators Lisa Cutter and Janice Marchman, and Representatives Elizabeth Velasco and Tisha Mauro. This bill is bipartisan.
    • SB25-033 – Prohibit New Liquor-Licensed Drug Stores, sponsored by Senators Judy Amabile and Dylan Roberts, and Representatives Naquetta Ricks and Ron Weinberg. This bill is bipartisan. SIGNING STATEMENT
    • HB25-1027 – Update Disease Control Statutes, sponsored by Representatives Lindsay Gilchrist and Kyle Brown, and Senators Lindsey Daugherty and Kyle Mullica. This bill is bipartisan.
    • HB25-1173 – Advisory Board Serving Office of School Safety, sponsored by Representatives Meghan Lukens and Dusty Johnson, and Senator Chris Kolker. This bill is bipartisan.
    • HB25-1110 – Railroad Crossing Maintenance Costs, sponsored by Representatives Ty Winter and Monica Duran, and Senators Byron Pelton and Robert Rodriguez. This bill is bipartisan. 

    ###

    MIL OSI USA News –

    April 11, 2025

  • MIL-OSI USA: Rep. Larsen, Senator Murray, Senator Cantwell and Rep. Randall Reintroduce Legislation to Permanently Reauthorize Northwest Straits Commission

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Congressman Rick Larsen (2nd Congressional District Washington)

    Washington, D.C. — Today, U.S. Representative Rick Larsen (D, WA-02), along with Senators Patty Murray (D-WA), Vice Chair of the Senate Appropriations Committee and Maria Cantwell (D-WA), ranking member of the Senate Commerce, Science, and Transportation Committee and senior member of the Senate Finance Committee, introduced the Northwest Straits Marine Conservation Initiative Reauthorization Act of 2025, legislation to permanently reauthorize the Northwest Straits Commission in the Puget Sound, and fund it at $10 million each fiscal year for the next six years, through Fiscal Year 2031. Joining Senator Murray, Senator Cantwell, and Rep. Larsen in introducing the legislation today was U.S. Representative Emily Randall (D, WA-06).

    The Northwest Straits Commission is a community-led effort to restore marine habitats in the Northwest Straits region and address local threats to marine environments with projects such as restoring shellfish populations, protecting vulnerable ecosystems, and promoting growth for native water and shore-based plants. The Northwest Straits Commission provides funding, training, and support to seven county-based Marine Resources Committees (MRCs) and 15 Tribes. The Commission advises local officials on how to best carry out environmental projects and provides expertise to community organizations to help them be partners in their work by, for example, training volunteers to identify forage fish spawning sites.

    “The Northwest Straits Commission has an impressive track record of community-led, well-executed projects that protect Washington state’s environment,” said Rep. Larsen, the lead Democrat on the House Transportation & Infrastructure Committee. “I am proud to support the Commission as it brings together a diverse group of local, state, tribal and federal stakeholders to restore marine habitats and create good jobs in Northwest Washington. I look forward to working with Senator Murray, Senator Cantwell and Rep. Randall to pass this bill to reauthorize the Commission so it can continue its important work for decades to come.”

    “Ensuring our rich marine resources in the Northwest Straits stay healthy is critical not only for local communities and Tribes, but also for our economy in Washington state. That’s why I first established the Northwest Straits Commission in a bipartisan way back in 1998, and fight to secure funding for it every single year,” said Senator Murray. “The Commission remains a model for how successful investments in community-led restoration projects can be, and how vital they are for restoration work that help our marine habitats recover and thrive. I am excited to continue leading the charge to permanently authorize the Northwest Straits Commission with this legislation, which would also provide a strong and consistent funding stream for the Commission over the next decade—making sure partners on the ground can expand their efforts to protect our marine species and habitats and support our outdoor recreation economy. I’ll continue fighting every way I can to secure the federal funding necessary to protect our natural resources for generations to come.”

    “The Northwest Straits bill is critical to supporting our robust coastal economy and fishing jobs, while preserving Washington’s coastal environment for generations to come,” Senator Cantwell said. “This legislation ensures we continue to support the health and sustainability of our diverse marine resources.”

    “From abalone beds and oysters, to the rugged coastline that stretches for hundreds of miles, folks from Washington’s 6th District know there’s no place quite like home. The Northwest Straits Commission has been a lifeline for our communities, providing critical resources like the Marine Resources Committees in Jefferson and Clallam counties, and working alongside Tribes all across the state,” said Rep. Randall. “Their collaborative efforts to restore and protect our marine habitats are a testament to what makes this place so special. I’m proud to co-lead this legislation to reauthorize and continue the Commission’s important work so we can continue working together to safeguard the precious marine resources that make our community and our state one-of-a-kind.”

    The Northwest Straits Commission is supported by a wide range of stakeholders, including state and federal agencies, elected leaders, and Tribal partners throughout the Puget Sound Region. More information about this bill is available here. The text of the Northwest Straits Marine Conservation Initiative Reauthorization Act of 2025 is available here.

    ###

    MIL OSI USA News –

    April 11, 2025

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Science Secretary hails Wrightbus as company pledges £25 million to bolster UK’s green transport revolution and drive growth

    Source: United Kingdom – Executive Government & Departments

    Press release

    Science Secretary hails Wrightbus as company pledges £25 million to bolster UK’s green transport revolution and drive growth

    Northern Ireland based bus manufacturer pledges £25 million to expand its R&D capabilities

    Wrightbus pledges £25 million for R&D into green transport revolution

    • Northern Ireland based firm Wrightbus to invest £25 million for cutting-edge research to develop next-generation electric and hydrogen vehicles
    • Investment to be transformative in cutting emissions and creating skilled local jobs to grow our economy, supporting the government’s Plan for Change
    • The success of Wrightbus shows how bold investment in Research and Development pays off – with the Science Secretary calling it a prime example of the benefits innovation can bring to businesses and the wider economy

    Millions of pounds in investment by Wrightbus to develop the next generation of green buses has been welcomed today by Science Secretary Peter Kyle, highlighting it as a key driver of economic growth under the Plan for Change.

    As the UK’s fastest-growing zero-emission bus manufacturer and a major employer in Northern Ireland and the wider UK, Wrightbus’ new funding will accelerate the next generation of electric and hydrogen-powered buses, potentially creating dozens of new jobs, slashing emissions, and supporting the government’s mission to make Britain a clean energy superpower.

    During his visit to the company’s Northern Ireland headquarters, Science Secretary Peter Kyle praised Wrightbus as a standout example of how investing in R&D fuels business development, job creation and regional economic growth. Studies show that for every £1 a business invests in R&D, it can generate a return of 20% for the firm – with similar, additional gains spilling over into the wider British economy (1) – evidence of a dynamic economy rooted in enterprise. He called on more businesses to follow suit, emphasising that such investments are crucial for maintaining the UK’s competitive edge in science and technology and that government alone cannot deliver this growth.

    Wrightbus is part of a growing network of high-tech businesses and innovators driving growth in Northern Ireland. The region boasts a thriving advanced manufacturing sector and a rapidly expanding tech scene. One such example is Belfast-based Ionic Technologies, which is developing new ways to recycle rare materials needed for electric vehicles and wind turbines, helping to make green technologies more sustainable and less reliant on overseas supply chains.

    The government’s upcoming Industrial Strategy, set to be published this summer, will build on success stories like Wrightbus and make Britain the best country to do business – helping more firms lead the way in future industries like advanced manufacturing, clean transport, and clean energy.

    This investment follows government action to increase demand for electric vehicles, with £2.3 billion investment already boosting British manufacturing and improving charging infrastructure.

    Since July, the government has seen £34.8 billion of private investment announced into UK’s clean energy industries. The UK was the largest electric vehicle market in Europe in 2024 and the third in the world with over 382,000 sold – up a fifth on the previous year. There are now more than 75,000 public charge points in the UK – with one added every 29 minutes – ensuring that motorists are always a short drive from a socket.

    Science and Technology Secretary, Peter Kyle said:

    Investing in innovation is central to our Plan for Change, but public investment alone is not enough to ensure British businesses remain at the cutting edge of global industries.

    Wrightbus is proof that businesses backing R&D deliver real-world impact – for both the company themselves and the local region – creating new high-quality jobs, strengthening supply chains across sectors and delivering the new industries of the future.

    Wrightbus’ investment will not only boost growth in Northern Ireland. It will help to accelerate the UK’s transition to net zero and our mission to become a clean energy superpower while keeping our economy competitive on the global stage.

    The £25 million investment announced today will be used to develop groundbreaking zero-emission vehicles, support UK businesses that provide the parts and technology needed to build them and enhance advanced testing capabilities. Funding includes:

    • £10 million to develop the world’s most efficient double-deck and single-deck electric bus, the Wrightbus StreetDeck Electroliner. Designed for extended range and rapid charging times, it can travel up to 200 miles on a single charge and recharge in just 2.5 hours, cutting energy costs and reducing reliance on fossil fuels.
    • £5 million to develop the UK’s first hydrogen-powered coach due for release within 18 months. Capable of travelling up to 1,000km on a single refuel, it will rival diesel coaches in range and efficiency and make long-distance travel greener without compromising on performance or convenience.
    • £5 million for product validation using the UK’s most advanced proving grounds – ensuring Wrightbus vehicles are rigorously tested for durability, efficiency, and safety so that UK-manufactured buses set new global standards for reliability and performance.
    • £5 million for a world-class telematics system – an advanced vehicle monitoring system that collects real-time performance data to operators. The telematics system is improving efficiency, lowering costs, helping fleet operators optimise routes, extending vehicle lifespans and driving down operating expenses using predictive maintenance based on AI algorithms.

    Last week, Wrightbus buses passed 50 million zero-emission miles – preventing over 85,000 tonnes of CO2 emissions compared to diesel alternatives. The company’s rapid growth underscores the UK’s strength in high-tech manufacturing and the economic benefits of investing in green innovation. Wrightbus is also a potential customer of the Bradford Low Carbon Project, which received funding from the government’s flagship hydrogen programme.

    The Ballymena-based company had a record-breaking year of orders in 2024 which it is on track to exceed this year, increasing production from 1,016 to 1,200 with plans to reach 1,400 by 2026. Its supply chain supports businesses in 47 counties, from suppliers of heating systems to software developers across the UK and in key European markets, including France, Germany, and the Netherlands.

    It builds on its landmark £500 million deal with Go-Ahead in 2023 which secured over 1,000 zero-emission bus orders, creating 500 new jobs in Ballymena and supporting 7,500 jobs across the UK – strengthening the UK’s position as among the best places in the world to invest in R&D with businesses like Wrightbus leading the way in green transport innovation.

    Wrightbus CEO, Jean-Marc Gales said:

    It was a pleasure to showcase our R&D progress to the Secretary of State. This investment represents our largest amount ever into research and development and it underlines our ambition to continue be one of the very best zero-emission manufacturers in the UK and Europe.

    Innovation has played a key part in the rapid growth of Wrightbus and is one of the major things that has allowed us to switch from having a 95% diesel bus output to a 95% zero emission bus output in less than 5 years.

    The research projects we’re currently funding, including the development of our hydrogen coach, the further enhancement of the world-leading Electroliner bus, and our telematics system, will allow us to continue to push zero-emission transport boundaries and represents a huge boost for manufacturing in Northern Ireland and the wider UK.

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    Published 11 April 2025

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

    April 11, 2025

  • MIL-OSI USA: April 10th, 2025 VIDEO: Heinrich Delivers Opening Remarks During Nomination Hearing to Consider Dr. Dario Gil for Under Secretary of Science at DOE & Preston Wells Griffith III for Under Secretary of Energy at DOE

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for New Mexico Martin Heinrich

    VIDEO: Heinrich Delivers Opening Remarks in Hearing to Consider DOE Nominations, April 10, 2025.

    WASHINGTON — In his opening remarks during the Senate Energy and Natural Resources Committee’s nomination hearing to consider Dr. Dario Gil for the U.S. Department of Energy’s (DOE) Under Secretary of Science and Preston Wells Griffith III for DOE’s Under Secretary of Energy, U.S. Senator Martin Heinrich (D-N.M.), Ranking Member of the Committee, sought assurances from the nominees to follow the law as enacted by Congress.

    In addition to noting the importance of the Under Secretaries’ roles in delivering for the Department and the American people, Heinrich highlighted how the hearing comes on the heels of significant reductions in the Department’s workforce, grant and loan funding freezes, contract uncertainties and the so-called “hit list” of programs targeted for termination, all of which threaten the important work of the Department.

    Heinrich’s remarks as delivered are below:

    Thank you, Chairman Lee, and welcome Mr. Griffith and Dr. Gil.

    The Committee meets this morning to consider the nominations of Mr. Griffith to be Under Secretary of Energy and Dr. Gil to be Under Secretary of Science. I understand that Ms. Sgamma will not be appearing before this Committee today.

    The Office of Under Secretary of Energy was established in 1977 to perform functions and duties assigned by the Secretary.

    The Office of Under Secretary for Science was added in 2005 to serve as the Secretary of Science and Technology Advisor to oversee the Department’s research and development programs and to carry out additional duties assigned by the Secretary.

    The flexibility built into these two offices has enabled different Secretaries to shift functions and programs between the two Under Secretaries. Most recently, Secretary Granholm combined both science and energy offices under the Under Secretary for Science, and she consolidated the Department’s loan and infrastructure programs under the Under Secretary of Energy, renaming the office the Under Secretary for Infrastructure.

    I am told that Secretary Wright has kept Secretary Granholm’s organizational structure, at least for now. But I’m most interested to hear from Dr. Gil and Mr. Griffith, what issues they believe will be in their portfolios, whether there are any plans or if there have been discussions about reorganizing these offices.

    Overhanging our hearing this morning are, of course, the reductions in the Department’s workforce, the grant and loan funding freezes, the contract uncertainties and the so-called “hit list” of programs targeted for termination, all of which threaten the important work of the Department.

    I will be particularly interested to hear from the two Under Secretary nominees how they will balance their competing obligations to the President who has nominated them, and the statutory requirements enacted by Congress, governing the department’s programs.

    Thank you, Chairman.

    MIL OSI USA News –

    April 11, 2025

  • MIL-OSI USA: Sen. Moran Questions Nominees for NASA Administrator, FCC Commissioner

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Kansas – Jerry Moran
    WASHINGTON – U.S. Senator Jerry Moran (R-Kan.) – a member of the Senate Committee on Commerce, Science and Transportation – yesterday questioned Jared Isaacman, the nominee for NASA Administrator, and Olivia Trusty, the nominee to be Commissioner for the Federal Communications Commission (FCC), during a hearing to review their nominations.
    Sen. Moran questioned Ms. Trusty on spectrum policy, the implementation of the 5G Fund and her vision for the FCC.
    “Ms. Trusty, I’m pleased by your nomination; I have great faith in you,” said Sen. Moran. “It’s been my disappointment over time to watch the FCC become much more partisan and incapable of reaching decisions. I would encourage you to use every effort to find solutions to these problems and bring the commission together to serve the American people.”
    Sen. Moran questioned Mr. Isaacman on NASA’s plans for the Space Launch System (SLS), parts of which are manufactured in Kansas, and highlighted the Cosmosphere and its importance to Kansas.
    “Do you believe the current Artemis architecture featuring the SLS rocket or Orion spacecraft is the best or fastest way to beat China to the Moon,” asked Sen. Moran.
    “Senator, this is the current plan, and I do believe it is the best and fastest way to get there,” answered Mr. Isaacman.
    Click HERE to watch Sen. Moran’s Questions

     

    MIL OSI USA News –

    April 11, 2025
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