NewzIntel.com

Category: Science

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: FS to visit Spain and UK

    Source: Hong Kong Information Services

    Financial Secretary Paul Chan will depart tomorrow for Europe, where he will visit Madrid and London before returning to Hong Kong on September 29.

    Mr Chan will lead a delegation from the innovation and technology (I&T) sector on the trip. It will comprise senior executives from the Science & Technology Parks (HKSTP) and Cyberport, as well as the heads of startups engaged in artificial intelligence, biotechnology, fintech, green technology, Web 3.0, and other advanced sectors.

    In Madrid, from September 22 to 25, he will visit various local I&T institutions and enterprises and meet members of the political, business and I&T communities. The delegation will also attend a business lunch organised by the Hong Kong Trade Development Council to promote Hong Kong’s advantages, particularly its burgeoning I&T ecosystem.

    In London, from September 25 to 28, Mr Chan will participate in the plenary of the Hong Kong-European Business Council, a Hong Kong Dinner hosted by the Trade Development Council, a lunch organised by the Hong Kong Association, and a roundtable meeting hosted by the UK-based think tank Asia House.

    He will speak on these occasions about Hong Kong’s latest developments and its advantages and meet members of the local political, business and financial communities.

    In the two European capitals, representatives from the HKSTP, Cyberport and startups in the delegation will engage in exchanges with institutions, and members of venture capital funds and I&T circles, seeking opportunities for co-operation.

    During Mr Chan’s absence, Deputy Financial Secretary Michael Wong will be Acting Secretary.

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-OSI China: China remains top source of scientific ‘hot papers’

    Source: China State Council Information Office 2

    China remains the top source of scientific “hot papers,” contributing 48.4 percent of the global total, according to a think tank report released on Friday.
    Hot papers are scientific studies published within two years of their classification that have received a significant number of citations over the most recent two months and have been cited in the top 0.1 percent of their respective disciplines.
    China had published 2,071 hot papers as of July 2024, with the United States coming in second with 1,625, according to the report, which was released by the Ministry of Science and Technology’s Institute of Scientific and Technical Information of China.
    China ranked second in the number of highly cited papers, which are studies whose citations over the past decade rank in the top 1 percent of their respective fields.
    According to the report, China had 65,700 highly cited papers as of July this year, accounting for 33.8 percent of the global total and securing its second-place rank. The United States had produced 76,500 highly cited papers, or 39.3 percent of the global total and ranking first.
    The report also highlighted that in 2023, China published a total of 395 papers in the three most widely recognized scientific journals — Cell, Nature and Science — which led to its global ranking rise from fourth place in 2022 to second place last year.
    The number of China’s scientific research papers has ranked first for many years, and the country will continue striving to fill the void in the production of top-quality papers, the report said. 

    MIL OSI China News –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: Don Cheadle, Dame Emma Thompson, Julianne Moore, Khaled Hosseini, Robert Redford and Sir Mo Farah among more than 150 notable parents urging an end to fossil fuels ahead of UN Summit of the Future

    Source: Save The Children

    Signatories to an open letter to world leaders, spearheaded by parent’s and caregivers’ organisation Our Kids’ Climate, as part of a movement to mobilize parents around the world to take climate action and help protect what we love, include:

    • Actors Cobie Smulders, David Morrissey, Dia Mirza, Djimon Hounsou, Emmy Rossum, Halle Bailey, Hend Sabry, Isabelle Carré, Julie Walters, Kevin Bacon, Matthew Rhys, Ray Winstone, Rosario Dawson, Simon Pegg and Steve Buscemi; and film director Fernando Meirelles.
    • Musicians Angelique Kidjo and Annie Lennox.
    • Author Ian McEwan, and children’s writers and illustrators Axel Scheffler, LeUyen Pham and Malorie Blackman.
    • Prominent activists Bill McKibben, Princess Esmeralda of Belgium, Kumi Naidoo, Naomi Klein, Nnimmo Bassey and Tasneem Essop.
    • Former UN Climate Chief and architect of the landmark 2015 Paris Agreement on Climate Change, Christiana Figueres.
    • Mayor of London and C40 Cities Co-Chair, Sadiq Khan, and Mayor of Freetown and C40 Cities Co-Chair, Yvonne Aki-Sawyerr.

    In an open letter addressed to world leaders, more than 150 notable parents from across the globe are calling for an end to the world’s “dangerous dependence on fossil fuels” ahead of the UN Summit of the Future on 22-23 September.

    The letter is released against months of wrangling over whether and how to include a crucial reference to fossil fuels—the primary driver of the climate crisis—in the Summit’s key document, the Pact for the Future.  

    The parents’ letter says: “The burning of fossil fuels drives the climate crisis, harming children now and stealing their futures. It is crucial that the Summit makes an unambiguous commitment to a just and fair transition away from fossil fuels.”

    The letter has been spearheaded by Our Kids’ Climate, a global network bringing together parents and grandparents from over 55 countries to take action on climate. It is part of an effort taking place during Climate Week NYC supported by Groundswell (Global Optimism), Save the Children International, Potential Energy, C40 Cities, Climate Crisis Advisory Group, WE ARE FAMILY FOUNDATION,  and the Fossil Fuel Non-Proliferation Treaty Initiative, which seeks to harness the power of love-led climate action and share the parents’ letter under the hashtag #ProtectWhatWeLove.

    Parents from entertainment, sport, science, religion, civil society, literature and business have added their names to the letter. Further signatories include: actors Alison Steadman, Alysia Reiner, David Lyons, Jessica St. Clair, Krista Kosonen, Lucian Msamati, Piper Perabo and Shabana Azmi, artist Olafur Eliasson; authors Lily Cole, Paul Hawken, Romesh Gunesekera and Sergei Urban; broadcaster Gary Lineker; business leader Paul Polman;  children’s writers and illustrators Beverley Naidoo, Britta Teckentrup, Chris Riddell, Debi Gliori, Jackie Morris, Jim Field, Ken Wilson-Max, Margarita Engle, Michael Rosen, Yuyi Morales and Zillah Bethell;  climate activists Farhana Yamin, Jill Kubit, Lidy Nacpil, Maya Mailer, Omar Elmawi, and Tzeporah Berman;  economists Kate Raworth, Dr. Guido Schmidt-Traub, Dr. Mariana Mazzucato; faith leader Pastor Henrique Vieira; health leaders Dr Maria Neira from the World Health Organization and Rosamund Kissi-Debrah; models Amber Valletta, Arizona Muse and Cameron Russell; scientists Dr Arunabha Ghosh, Sir David King, Dr Fatima Denton, and Michael E. Mann.

    The letter was released alongside a powerful video produced by the Potential Energy Coalition, which was informed by the organization’s research that found the number one reason people around the world care about climate change is to protect children and future generations.

    Today (Saturday 21 September), on the eve of the Summit, a colorful and family-friendly street action, outside the UN, organized by Climate Families NYC and Our Kids’ Climate will see the letter being read out by parents to coincide with the letter’s release. Parents and children from New York together with climate leader parents from around the world will attend. 

    The letter continues: “To be worthy of its name, the Summit of the Future must be a reset moment. We want our children to inherit a world in which they can breathe clean air, enjoy nature, and meet their potential without threat from ever-worsening climate disasters.”

    On the eve of the Summit,  the organizations supporting the letter are urging high-income countries and historical emitters to take the lead in driving a just and equitable transition, calling on these nations to provide critical support to low-income countries, ensuring that children’s rights and needs are prioritized at every step.

    The public supports robust climate action. According to research, 77% of the global population want their government to do whatever it takes to limit the effects of climate change. Next year, countries must present updated climate plans to the UN. These plans are a once-in-a-generation opportunity to respond to this global mandate for action.

    Parents and grandparents across the world are being invited by Our Kids’ Climate to join forces with the eminent parents by signing the open letter themselves.

    The letter to world leaders ends: “We, the parents, simply wish for a decent future for our children, and all children. You have the power to protect what we love. For the children of today and tomorrow, we are counting on you.”

    ENDS

    Notes to editors:

    • For media enquiries on the Our Kids’ Climate letter and signatories contact Rebecca Wynn on rebecca@ourkidsclimate.org  and +44 7779618197 or Cora Bauer on cora.bauer@digacommunications.com  or +447787897467
    • Full letter and list of signatories will be hosted here on Our Kids’ Climate’s website when the embargo lifts, and this is also where all parents can add their name to the open letter.  You can read the full letter under embargo here
    • A powerful video, created by Potential Energy, about love-led climate action is also being released alongside the letter.  The video can be found here. Protect What You Love is a unifying concept created by Potential Energy, based on global research on what moves people the most on demand for climate action, in partnership with the Yale Climate Communications Center. For media inquiries, contact Caroline Behringer at cbehringer@potentialenergycoalition.org or +31 6 1556 8756.
    • Journalists are invited to attend Our Kids’ Climate and NY Climate Families family-friendly street action, where the parents’ letter will be read out. The action will feature colorful props, music, parents and children. It will take place on Saturday, September 21, 10 AM ET.  Please contact Liat Olenick, LiatOlenick@Gmail.com, + 1 917-930-2788. Photos from the action will be made available here.

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    For further enquiries please contact:

    Our media out of hours (BST) contact is media@savethechildren.org.uk / +44(0)7831 650409

    Please also check our Twitter account @Save_GlobalNews for news alerts, quotes, statements and location Vlogs.

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-OSI Europe: Audience with members of the Italian Financial Police on the occasion of the 250th anniversary of its founding

    Source: The Holy See

    Audience with members of the Italian Financial Police on the occasion of the 250th anniversary of its founding, 21.09.2024
    This morning, in the Vatican Apostolic Palace, the Holy Father Francis received in audience the members of the Italian Financial Police on the occasion of the 250th anniversary of the founding of the Corps, to whom he delivered the following address:

    Address of the Holy Father
    Mr. Minister,
    Mr. General,
    Your Excellency and dear Chaplains,
    Dear Members of the Financial Police,
    I welcome you with pleasure: I saw you this morning when you were entering here. I greet the Minister of Economy and Finance, the Commander General and all the officials. I greet and thank the Bishop Military Ordinary and the chaplains.
    “In tradition, the future”. This is the motto of your 250th anniversary. In tradition there is the future. It refers to the roots that led to the founding of the Italian Financial Police, and gave a direction for growth. Born as a special Corps for financial surveillance and border defence, it has taken on the tasks of tax and economic-financial police, and sea policing, with an important mission in the field of rescue, both at sea and in the mountains. A historical reminder of this commitment is the help offered to Jewish refugees and the persecuted during the two great world wars.
    A vast sphere of intervention, therefore, which aims to respond to problems with the tangibility of presence and timely action, while at the same time conveying a cultural alternative to certain evils that threaten to contaminate society.
    Your Patron is Saint Matthew – today is his feast day – apostle and evangelist. Indeed, he was a “publican”, a tax collector, an occupation doubly despised in Jesus’ time, because it was subservient to imperial power, and because it was corrupt. I like to go to the church of the French to see that painting by Caravaggio, “The conversion of Matthew”, which symbolizes this so deeply. He represented a utilitarian and unscrupulous mentality, devoted only to the “god of money”.
    In our times too, a similar logic affects social life, causing imbalances and marginalization: from food wastage – but this is a scandal, food wastage is a scandal! – from this waste, to the exclusion of citizens from benefiting from some of their rights. Even the State can end up a victim of this system; including those States that have vast resources but remain isolated in terms of finance or the global market. How does one explain hunger in the world today, when there is so, so much waste in developed societies? It is terrible. And another thing: if the production of weapons were to cease for a year, world hunger would end. Better to have weapons than solve hunger… Even the State can fall victim to this system: even those States which, despite having resources, as I said, remain isolated.
    In this panorama, you are required to contribute to the justice of economic relationships, verifying compliance with the rules that govern the activities of individuals and businesses. Therefore, you oversee the duty of every citizen to contribute to the needs of the State according to equitable criteria, without favouring the strongest, and you counter the inappropriate use of the internet and social networks. With regard to both tax collection and the fight against undeclared and underpaid work – this is a scandal – or in any case work that is detrimental to human dignity, your action is of paramount importance.
    And all this is your concrete and daily way of serving the common good, of being close to the people, of fighting corruption and promoting legality. That corruption that takes place under the table, no?
    The word ‘corrupt’ “is reminiscent of the broken heart, stained by something, the ruined heart. […] Corruption reveals an anti-social conduct so strong that it dissolves the validity of the relationships and pillars on which a society is founded”. Therefore, the answer, the alternative does not lie in norms alone, but in a “new humanism”.[1] To re-found humanity.
    The gaze of Jesus, placed on the young Matthew, says that the dignity and the life of man are the heart of the life of a people. You can contribute to the emergence of this new humanism also through your work in the service of the young people who apply to enter the Financial Police Corps and attend its schools. Initially they are perhaps looking only for a job, but they then find a specific training, which not only provides them with indispensable knowledge and experience, but also becomes education for life and the common good.
    Matthew, in a certain sense, moved from the logic of profit to that of equity. But, in the school of Jesus, he also went beyond equity and justice and came to know gratuitousness, the gift of self that generates solidarity, sharing, inclusion. Gratuitousness is not just a financial dimension, it is a human dimension. Entering into the service of others, freely, without seeking profit for oneself. Because while justice is necessary, justice is not enough to fill those gaps that only gratuitousness, charity and love can heal.
    You experience this, for example, when you organize the reception and rescue of migrants in danger in the Mediterranean: thank you for this, thank you. Or in your courageous interventions in the event of natural disasters, in Italy and elsewhere. But think of the fight against the scourge of drug trafficking, the merchants of death. Your service does not end with protection of the victims, but includes the attempt to help the rebirth of those who do wrong: indeed, by acting with respect and moral integrity you can touch consciences, showing the possibility of a different life.
    In this way to one can and must construct an alternative to the globalization of indifference – the globalization of indifference: provide an alternative to this – this globalization of indifference, which not only destroys with violence and war, but also neglects social care and the environment. In effect, the wealth of a nation is not solely in its GDP; it resides in its natural, artistic, cultural and religious heritage – and in the smile of its inhabitants, its children. Once, a head of State said to me: “I have a special measurement: the smile of children and the elderly. When both of them smile, things are not going too badly in a society”. It is curious, this … and this favours creativity, openness to the world. You yourselves are citizens who safeguard this “wealth” of Italy, but are ready to go on international missions. There is a need for this impetus to solidarity towards the other as a way to peace and as a hope for a better future!
    Brothers and sisters, I congratulate you, because you cooperate to foster the confidence and hope of the people. This people, that is all of us. And to nurture confidence, hope, smiles. I come back to this: the thermometer is, do the children smile? Do the elderly smile? Don’t forget. And this important anniversary fits well with the theme of the Jubilee that the Church is preparing to celebrate, which is “Pilgrims of Hope”. I bless you from my heart, I bless your work and families. Please, do not lose your sense of humour, please! This is healthy! And I ask you, please, to pray for me. Thank you.

    _____________________________________________________
    [1] Preface in Peter Turkson, Corrosion: combatting corruption in the Church and in society, Bologna 2017.

    MIL OSI Europe News –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: 75-minute documentary “Enchanting China” premieres today to celebrate 75th anniversary of founding of People’s Republic of China (with photo)

    Source: Hong Kong Government special administrative region

    75-minute documentary “Enchanting China” premieres today to celebrate 75th anniversary of founding of People’s Republic of China (with photos)
    75-minute documentary “Enchanting China” premieres today to celebrate 75th anniversary of founding of People’s Republic of China (with photos)
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         ​To mark the 75th anniversary of the founding of the People’s Republic of China, the Environment and Ecology Bureau (EEB) and the Environmental Protection Department, in collaboration with the Center for Environmental Education and Communications of the Ministry of Ecology and Environment, have produced the documentary series “Enchanting China”. The premiere of the documentary series was held today (September 21) at Shaw Auditorium, the Hong Kong University of Science and Technology (HKUST).           The first series of “Enchanting China” consists of five episodes totalling 75 minutes, namely “Ninety-Nine Bends of the Yellow River”, “Song of the Yangtze”, “From Desert to Forest”, “Embracing Diversity” and “Clean Air Actions”. The first four episodes, together with “Picturesque Bays of Hong Kong”, which is the first episode of the documentary series “Beautiful Hong Kong” produced by the EEB, were screened at today’s premiere. Through showing the country’s achievements and contributions in environmental protection, it aims to instil a strong sense of patriotism in the younger generation and help them understand the country’s progress of the ecological civilisation development in building a beautiful China and the contributions and achievements made by the country and the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region (HKSAR) Government in environmental protection and nature conservation.            Speaking at the premiere, the Chief Secretary for Administration, Mr Chan Kwok-ki, said, “‘Enchanting China’ allows us to experience the extraordinary charm of our nation and witness the country’s major achievements and contributions in environmental protection. On the first National Ecology Day last year, President Xi Jinping emphasised that ‘building an ecological civilisation is of fundamental importance for the sustainable development of the Chinese nation’. ‘Enchanting China’ is a meaningful way to implement the concept of ‘lucid waters and lush mountains are invaluable assets’, and promote the construction of ecological civilisation and environmental protection education.”           The Convenor of the Working Group on Patriotic Education (WGPE), Ms Starry Lee, who is also a member of the National People’s Congress Standing Committee and the Chairman of the Legislative Council House Committee, also attended the premiere today. She said that “Enchanting China” is a thematic documentary series born out of Hong Kong’s integration into the overall framework of national development, allowing Hong Kong to join the leading force in national environmental governance at a new level to deepen the understanding of the practice of green transformation.           Other guests at the premiere included Deputy Director of the Liaison Office of the Central People’s Government in the HKSAR Mr Luo Yonggang; the Inspector General of the Ministry of Ecology and Environment, Mr Ling Jiang; the Secretary for Environment and Ecology, Mr Tse Chin-wan; the Director of Environmental Protection, Dr Samuel Chui; heads of Departments; Consuls-General and representatives from Chambers of Commerce; Legislative Council Members; members from the WGPE, the Advisory Council on the Environment, and the Environment and Conservation Fund Committee; District Council members; chairmen and vice-chairmen of the three committees (the Area Committees, the District Fight Crime Committees and the District Fire Safety Committees); as well as representatives from local professional bodies, higher-education institutions and schools.           The EEB’s documentary series “Beautiful Hong Kong” also consists of five episodes totalling 75 minutes, showing the progressive environmental improvements in Hong Kong since the return to the motherland.           Mr Tse said, “The showcase of ‘Picturesque Bays of Hong Kong’ celebrated the achievements made by the HKSAR Government in environmental protection and nature conservation. Looking ahead, the HKSAR will continue to maintain close collaboration with other Greater Bay Area cities to jointly set up ecological security shields with a view to developing a more charming bay area. I encourage everyone in the community to explore our picturesque bays, treasure the natural beauty of Hong Kong and work together to enhance our natural environment.”           Professor Nancy Ip, President of HKUST, where the premiere took place, said in her welcome remarks, “The movie showcases our motherland’s unwavering commitment to preserving our natural environment and promoting sustainable development. Advancing sustainability requires collaboration and knowledge sharing across different sectors. HKUST strives to foster global sustainable development through scientific research, innovative solutions and international partnerships. We are also pleased to witness the establishment of the World Sustainable Development Institute in collaboration with the China Biodiversity Conservation and Green Development Foundation as part of today’s meaningful celebration. The institute will seek to generate impactful research outcomes and pursue science-based solutions for complex challenges such as climate change and nature conservation.”           The documentary series “Enchanting China” and “Beautiful Hong Kong” will be screened at the Hong Kong Space Museum and T·PARK from October. It will subsequently be broadcast on RTHK TV 32 and uploaded online for all primary and secondary schools in Hong Kong to download for broadcast.

     
    Ends/Saturday, September 21, 2024Issued at HKT 18:05

    NNNN

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: Raising speed limits will cost our communities

    Source: Green Party

    The Government’s move to disregard all evidence and increase speed limits will result in serious harm. 

    “The science is conclusive and the evidence is overwhelming: safe speeds save lives,” says the Green Party’s Transport spokesperson, Julie Anne Genter.

    “Our kids should be free to walk and cycle to school without worry. Our streets should enable everyone to access their communities safely and sustainably.

    “But the Government is trying to force councils and communities to adopt unsafe speeds on dangerous rural roads, in areas with lots of pedestrians and around schools for most of the day. 

    “Local councils, health professionals and road safety experts from here and around the world have spoken out opposing this senseless policy, outlining the serious harm it will cause.

    “In Auckland, safer speeds were shown to increase trip times by less than 20 seconds on the average 20-minute car journey, but massively reduced deaths and serious injuries. Is 20 seconds worth the risk of a loved one being lost?

    “The reality is that people won’t notice getting to their destination seconds earlier, but will notice a family member not making it home. 

    “Simeon Brown is dangerously uninformed, and is going against public opinion, expert advice, and even the coalition agreement to reverse speed limit reductions ‘where it safe to do so’. 

    “People did not vote for this. National’s election policy promised it would not return higher speeds ‘where it would be unsafe to do so’, yet in Government they are doing the exact opposite despite the warnings of experts and councils. 

    “We are dealing with people’s lives here. Failing to follow the evidence and ignoring basic physics will have real-world consequences,” says Julie Anne Genter.

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Commissioner of Police leads JPC members to witness Force mascots launching into space with satellite

    Source: Hong Kong Government special administrative region

         The six-day Beijing-Jiuquan Exchange Tour held by the Junior Police Call (JPC) concluded its main itinerary today (September 28). Eighteen JPC members started their journey on September 24. In addition to visiting a number of historical and cultural sites in Beijing, the members also visited the Jiuquan Satellite Launch Centre in Gansu Province. This not only enhanced participants’ understanding of our nation’s history and popular science knowledge, it also provided opportunities for them to have a closer understanding of our country’s latest technological developments and achievements.
     
         The Jiuquan Satellite Launch Centre is an important stop of the tour. On September 27, the Commissioner of Police, Mr Siu Chak-yee, led the delegation to witness the historic moment when the mascots of the Force and the JPC were launched into space together with a satellite.
     
         The Jiuquan Satellite Launch Centre is the birthplace of China’s aerospace industry. The whole nation rejoiced after China’s first satellite “Dongfanghong 1” was launched into space from the centre on April 24, 1970. Since its establishment in 1958, the centre has carried out numerous historic launch missions, witnessing the glorious history of China’s aerospace development.
     
         The satellite launched today is named “Shijian Satellite 19”. Accompanying the satellite into space were the Police’s anti-scam mascot “Little Grape” and JPC mascot “Mini Bean”. The cute “Little Grape” promotes anti-scam messages, while the amicable “Mini Bean” symbolises the self-discipline and bravery of JPC members.
     
         This was the first time for JPC members to witness a satellite launch. The space flight of “Mini Bean” symbolises the infinite possibilities of the younger generation and inspires JPC members to bravely pursue their dreams and explore the unknown.
     
         In addition to witnessing the satellite launch, the Commissioner also led the JPC members to visit the launch site of the LandSpace liquid oxygen-methane carrier rocket, launch tower of the Shenzhou manned spaceships, and astronaut dormitory “Wen Tiange” to learn about the daily lives and training of astronauts.
     
         The delegation will return to Hong Kong tomorrow (September 29).
     

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-OSI China: China to host global summit for science parks, innovation hubs in 2025

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

    NAIROBI, Sept. 27 — The 42nd edition of the International Association of Science Parks and Areas of Innovation (IASP) World Conference will be held in Beijing, China, in September 2025, organizers announced Friday in the Kenyan capital of Nairobi.

    The Chinese delegation led by Ma Jun, deputy mayor of Beijing Municipality, graced the flag handover ceremony to host the conference during the conclusion of the 41st IASP World Conference, which began on Tuesday in Nairobi.

    Ma said delegates will have an opportunity to attend sub-forums at the foot of the Great Wall, visit specialized industrial parks and leading companies, and have a taste of famous cuisine in Beijing.

    Kenya hosted the four-day conference that attracted more than 1,500 participants from 400 science parks and innovation hubs. In addition to exhibitions, the conference featured side events that discussed opportunities in the fintech industry, fostering the growth of youth-led startups and the future of work amid technological disruption.

    Lena Miranda, board president of the IASP, said next year’s conference in China will offer an opportunity for players in the digital space to reconnect and witness the technological advances the Asian country has made, impacting the entire globe.

    According to Miranda, China has emerged as a major player in helping countries in the Global South, especially Africa, leapfrog to a knowledge-based economy that promises jobs, enhanced connectivity, and inclusive growth.

    John Paul Okwiri, chief executive officer of Konza Technopolis, Kenya’s envisioned smart city located about 70 km southeast of Nairobi, said China has excelled in innovations and emerging technologies, hence earning the privilege of hosting next year’s IASP World Conference.

    Okwiri added that a partnership with the Chinese government and firms has been pivotal in advancing Kenya’s digitization agenda that has addressed youth unemployment while improving service delivery.

    MIL OSI China News –

  • MIL-OSI Australia: Gold Coast to benefit from multi-million dollar enforcement action following Albert River sewage spill

    Source: Government of Queensland

    Issued: 27 Sep 2024

    Gold Coast residents are set to benefit from more than $2.1 million in direct environmental improvements, including better water quality and a significant upgrade to the city’s sewerage network.

    The improvements come after the state’s environmental regulator secured a significant enforcement decision following its investigation into the impact of the Albert River sewage spill.

    The Department of Environment, Science and Innovation (DESI) and the City of Gold Coast Council have today agreed to an enforceable undertaking.

    An enforceable undertaking is an enforcement tool under the Environmental Protection Act 1994 that sets out actions that must be carried out to remedy any environmental harm, prevent further occurrences and address non-compliance issues to ensure compliance with the Act and enhance the protection of the environment.

    The enforceable undertaking requires Council to carry out environmental restoration works across the Albert and Logan River estuaries, as well as vital improvements to its aging sewerage infrastructure including enhanced leak detection systems and monitoring of the network.

    This enforceable undertaking is one of the largest environmental enforcement decisions ever handed down in Queensland.

    DESI launched an investigation into the cause and extent of environmental harm after more than 450 million litres of sewage spilled into the Albert River between January and April this year following the failure of a council pipe in Yatala.

    The department’s investigation determined Council had caused significant environmental impact by unlawfully releasing contaminates to waters.

    When considering appropriate enforcement action, DESI determined the community would be best served by ensuring ratepayer monies remained in the local community rather than Council bearing the costs of a prosecution and ultimately any penalty imposed.

    Key requirements of the enforceable undertaking include:

    • A $1.1M project to remove weeds and plant native vegetation at August Burrow Park, Alberton that will improve the condition of the wetlands, improve water quality, provide better habitat connectivity and improve the biodiversity and resilience of the ecosystem
    • A $120,000 project to remove weeds and plant native vegetation at Halls Road Nature Reserve, Luscombe
    • A more than $1M project to design and implement an enhanced sewer network monitoring project that will significantly reduce the risk of future sewage spills
    • The provision of high value scientific data to DESI and industry
    • Substantial improvements to infrastructure management systems and processes including condition assessments of all high-risk infrastructure.

    Following the spill, the department has been satisfied with Council’s response to the incident, cooperation in our investigation, and its commitment to fully implement the recommendations from its own independent investigation into the cause of the spill.

    Quotes attributable to Brad Wirth, Executive Director, Industry Development and South East Compliance, DESI:

    “We are committed to the protection of Queensland’s environment and will take strong action to protect our natural assets.

    “When considering our enforcement options, the decision to accept an enforceable undertaking rather than a lengthy prosecution means the Gold Coast community will directly benefit from the enforcement action.

    “This is a great outcome for the people of the Gold Coast as it means the money will be invested locally, will result in the enhancement of their natural environment, and will build the resilience of Council’s essential sewerage infrastructure.

    “We will be closely monitoring Council’s compliance. There are strong penalties that can apply if Council fails to comply with the requirements of the enforceable undertaking.”

    More information on the department’s response, investigation and enforceable undertaking can be found at: Albert River sewage spill investigation.

    MIL OSI News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: California Man Charged in Complaint Alleging He Injured Five People in Bomb Attack in Lobby of County Courthouse

    Source: US State of California

    A California man was charged today in a federal criminal complaint alleging he committed a bomb attack at a courthouse in Santa Maria, California, on Wednesday, in which at least five people were injured.

    Nathaniel James McGuire, 20, of Santa Maria, is charged with maliciously damaging a building by means of explosive.

    McGuire, who was arrested Wednesday shortly after the attack, is expected to make his initial appearance today in U.S. District Court in downtown Los Angeles.

    “This defendant will now face justice in federal court for his alleged attack that injured at least five people and struck fear across a county courthouse and an entire community,” said Attorney General Merrick B. Garland. “Attacks on our public institutions and on public servants threaten the safety of our communities and the rule of law itself. Such attacks will not be tolerated by the Justice Department.”

    According to an affidavit filed with the complaint, on Sept. 25, McGuire entered a courthouse of Santa Barbara County Superior Court and threw a bag into the lobby. The bag exploded and McGuire left the courthouse on foot. The explosion injured at least five people who were present at the courthouse at that time.

    Shortly thereafter, McGuire was apprehended and detained by law enforcement officials as he was trying to access a red Ford Mustang car parked outside the building. McGuire allegedly yelled that the government had taken his guns and that everyone needed to fight, rise up, and rebel.

    Inside the car, a deputy saw ammunition, a flare gun, and a box of fireworks. A search of the car revealed a shotgun, a rifle, more ammunition, a suspected bomb, and 10 Molotov cocktails. Law enforcement later rendered the bomb safe.

    A search of McGuire’s residence revealed an empty can with nails glued to the outside, a duffel bag containing matches, black powder, used and unused fireworks, and papers that appeared to be recipes for explosive material.

    “This defendant’s alleged misconduct was chilling,” said U.S. Attorney Martin Estrada for Central District of California. “Not only did he injure five people and traumatize many more, but he possessed a cache of weapons that would have allowed him to wreak even greater destruction had he not been stopped. Attacks on our courts, law enforcement officers, and other public servants are unacceptable, and it is critical that those who carry out such assaults be prosecuted to the fullest extent.”

    “The idea of intentionally setting off an explosive device to do harm and avoid justice in the process shocks the conscience,” said Assistant Director in Charge Akil Davis of the FBI Los Angeles Field Office. “Make no mistake, we are committed to holding McGuire accountable for this blatant act of violence. As always, we encourage the public to remain vigilant and to promptly report suspicious activities which could represent a threat to public safety.”

    “This was a shocking and unprecedented crime in our county, but, in spite of its audacity, the security of the Santa Maria courthouse was maintained,” said Sheriff Bill Brown of Santa Barbara County. “The suspect was swiftly apprehended by a court security officer, a sheriff’s deputy, two California Highway Patrol officers, and a district attorney’s investigator; we are proud of their resolute actions that almost certainly prevented further violence. We are also grateful for the substantial investigative assistance that has been provided by our colleagues with the Federal Bureau of Investigation, the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives, and from U.S. Attorney Martin Estrada and his office.”

    If convicted, McGuire faces a mandatory minimum penalty of seven years in prison and a maximum penalty of 40 years in prison. A federal district court judge will determine any sentence after considering the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines and other statutory factors.

    The FBI and Santa Barbara County Sheriff’s Office are investigating the case.

    Assistant U.S. Attorneys Mark Takla and Kathrynne N. Seiden for the Central District of California are prosecuting this case with substantial assistance from Trial Attorney Patrick Cashman of the Justice Department’s National Security Division.

    A complaint is merely an allegation. All defendants are presumed innocent until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt in a court of law. 

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI Europe: Apostolic Journey of His Holiness Francis in Luxembourg and Belgium (26 to 29 September 2024) – Courtesy Visit to the King of the Belgians and Meeting with the Authorities and Civil Society in the Castle of Laeken

    Source: The Holy See

    Apostolic Journey of His Holiness Francis in Luxembourg and Belgium (26 to 29 September 2024) – Courtesy Visit to the King of the Belgians and Meeting with the Authorities and Civil Society in the Castle of Laeken, 27.09.2024
    Courtesy Visit to the King of the Belgians
    This morning, after celebrating Holy Mass privately, the Holy Father Francis transferred by car to the Castle of Laeken for the courtesy visit to the King of the Belgians, His Majesty Philippe Leopold Lodewijk Maria and Queen Mathilde d’Udekem d’Acoz.
    Upon arrival, at 9.30, a Guard of Honour on horseback accompanied him to the main entrance of the Castle, where he was welcomed by the Belgian Royals.
    After the official photographs and the signing of the Book of Honour, the private meeting took place, followed by the exchange of gifts.
    At the end of the visit, the Pope, the King and the Queen transferred to the Grande Galerie of the Castle of Laeken for the meeting with the authorities and civil society.

    Meeting with the Authorities and Civil Society
    At 10.15, in the Grande Galerie of the Castle of Laeken, the Holy Father Francis met with political and religious authorities, businesspeople and representatives of civil society and culture.
    After the speeches of the King of Belgium and the Prime Minister, the Holy Father delivered his address.
    At the end of the meeting, after taking leave of the Royals and before returning to the Apostolic Nunciature, Pope Francis visited the Home Saint-Joseph in Brussels, a residence for elderly people in financial difficulty, where the Little Sisters of Charity are working.
    The following is the address delivered by the Holy Father during his meeting with the authorities and civil Society:

    Address of the Holy Father
    Your Majesty,Mr Prime Minister,Brother Bishops,Distinguished Authorities,Ladies and Gentlemen!
    I thank Your Majesty for your cordial welcome and kind words of greeting. I am very pleased to be visiting Belgium. When I think of this country, what comes to mind is something small yet great; a country in the west that at the same time is also at the centre, as if Belgium were the beating heart of an enormous organism.
    Indeed, it would be a mistake to judge the quality of a country by its geographical size. Belgium may not be a large state, yet its particular history has been impactful. Immediately after the Second World War, the exhausted and downhearted peoples of Europe, in beginning a profound process of peace, cooperation and integration, looked to your country as a natural location to establish key European institutions. This was because Belgium was on the fault line between the Germanic and Latin worlds, sandwiched between France and Germany, two countries that had most embodied the opposing nationalistic ideals underlying the conflict.
    We could describe Belgium as a bridge between the continent and the British Isles, between the Germanic and French-speaking regions, between southern and northern Europe. A bridge enabling concord to spread and disputes to abate. A bridge where all people, with their own languages, ways of thinking and beliefs can meet others and choose conversation, dialogue and sharing as the means of mutual interaction. A bridge where all can learn to make their own identity not an idol or barrier, but a welcoming place, from which to begin and then return; a place for promoting valuable personal exchanges, seeking together new social stability and building new agreements. Belgium is a bridge that promotes trade, connects and brings cultures into dialogue. An indispensable bridge, then, for rejecting war and building peace.
    It is thus easy to see how great little Belgium really is! How Europe needs Belgium to remind it that its history comprises peoples and cultures, cathedrals and universities, achievements of human ingenuity, but also many wars and the will to dominate that sometimes led to colonialism and exploitation.
    Europe needs Belgium in order to continue along the path of peace and of fraternity among its peoples. Indeed, Belgium is a reminder to all others that when nations disregard borders or breach treaties by employing the most varied and untenable excuses, and when they use weapons to replace actual law with the principle of “might is right”, then they open Pandora’s box, unleashing violent storms that batter the house, threatening to destroy it. At this moment in history, I think Belgium plays a very important role. It seems we are close to a world war.
    Moreover, peace and harmony are never won once and for all. On the contrary, they are a duty and a mission – concord and peace is a task and a mission – one that needs to be undertaken unceasingly, with great care and patience. For when human beings forget the memory of the past and its valuable lessons, they run the dangerous risk of once again falling backwards, even after having moved on, forgetting the suffering and appalling costs paid by previous generations. Human beings forget the past, but it is curious as there are other forces, both in society and in individuals, that make us fall repeatedly into the same mistakes.
    In this regard, Belgium is more essential than ever for keeping alive the memory of the European continent. Indeed, it provides an irrefutable argument for developing a timely and continuous cultural, social and political movement that, at the same time, is both courageous and prudent. A movement that excludes from the future the idea and practice of war as a viable option with all its catastrophic consequences.
    Furthermore, history is the often unheeded magistra vitae and Belgium’s history calls Europe to return to its path, rediscover its true identity, and invest once again in the future by opening itself to life and hope by overcoming the demographic winter and the torments of war! These are the two calamities we face right now. We are seeing the nightmare of war, which can still turn into a world war. And the demographic winter; that is why we have to be pragmatic and have more children!
    In bearing witness to its faith in the Risen Christ, the Catholic Church wishes to be a presence offering individuals, families, societies and nations a hope both ancient and ever new. A presence helping everyone to face challenges and difficulties, not with frivolous enthusiasm or bleak pessimism, but with the certainty that humanity, loved by God, is not destined to collapse into nothingness, but is eternally called to goodness and peace.
    Fixing her gaze on Jesus, the Church always recognizes herself as the disciple who follows her Master with fear and trembling. While she knows that she is holy, for she has been founded by the Lord, she experiences at the same time the fragility and shortcomings of her members; saints and sinners who are never fully up to the task entrusted to them since it is always beyond their capacity.
    The Church proclaims the good news that can fill our hearts with joy. Through works of charity and countless examples of love for our neighbour, the Church seeks to offer concrete and trusted signs of the love that motivates her. Yet, she always lives in a specific culture, within the thinking of a given age that she sometimes helps to shape and to which at other times she is subjected; and her members do not always understand and live the message of the Gospel in all its purity and fullness. The Church is holy but has sinful members.
    In this perennial coexistence of sanctity and sin, light and shadow, the Church carries out her mission, often with examples of great generosity and heartfelt dedication, but sadly, at times, with the emergence of painful counter-testimonies. I refer to the tragic instances of child abuse – also referenced by the King and the Prime Minister – which is a scourge that the Church is addressing firmly and decisively by listening to and accompanying those who have been wounded, and by implementing a prevention programme throughout the world.
    Brothers and sisters, it is shameful! It is a shame that we have to address this situation, ask for pardon and solve the problem: the shame of child abuse. We think of the time of the Holy Innocents and say, “Oh what a tragedy, what did King Herod do!” but today there is this crime in the Church. The Church must be ashamed, ask for pardon and try to solve this situation with Christian humility and by putting in all the measures necessary to ensure that it does not happen again. Someone might say to me, “Your Holiness, according to the statistics, the vast majority of abuse are in the family, in the neighbourhood, in the world of sport or in school. Yet, even one case is enough for us to be ashamed! In the Church we must ask pardon for this; others can ask forgiveness for their part. This is our shame and humiliation.
    In this regard, I was saddened to learn about the practice of “forced adoptions” that also took place here in Belgium between the 1950s and the 1970s. In those poignant stories, we see how the bitter fruit of wrongdoing and criminality was mixed in with what was unfortunately the prevailing view in all parts of society at that time. This was so much the case that many believed in conscience that they were doing something good for both the child and the mother.
    Frequently, the family and other actors in society, including within the Church, thought that in order to avoid the stigma that unfortunately fell upon unmarried mothers in those times, it would be preferable for the good of both the child and the mother that the child be given up for adoption. There were even cases in which some women were not given the possibility of choosing between keeping their children or giving them up for adoption. This is actually happening today in some cultures and countries.
    As the successor of the Apostle Peter, I pray to the Lord that the Church will always find within herself the strength to bring clarity and never conform to the predominant culture, even when that culture uses, in a manipulative way, values derived from the Gospel, drawing from it inauthentic conclusions that cause suffering and exclusion.
    I pray that the leaders of the nations, by looking at Belgium and its history, will be able to learn from it. In this way, they can spare their peoples endless misfortunes and sorrow. I likewise pray that those in government will know how to take up the responsibility, the risk and the honour of peace, knowing how to avoid the danger, disgrace and absurdity of war. I pray too that they will fear the judgment of conscience, of history and of God, so that their hearts and minds will be converted so as always to put the common good first. At this time when the economy has developed so much, I would like to point out that in some countries the most profitable investments are in arms manufacturing.
    Your Majesty, Ladies and Gentlemen, the motto of my visit to your country is “En route, avec Espérance”. The fact that Espérance is written with a capital letter leads me to reflect that hope is not merely something to be carried in our luggage on a journey. Instead, hope is a gift from God, perhaps the most humble virtue – the writer said – and the one that never fails, never disappoints. Hope is a gift from God to be carried in our hearts. I would like to leave you, then, with the following wish for you and for all those living in Belgium: may you always ask this gift of hope from the Holy Spirit, and welcome it in order to walk together with hope along the path of life and history. Thank you!

    MIL OSI Europe News –

  • MIL-OSI Security: California Man Charged in Complaint Alleging He Injured Five People in Bomb Attack in Lobby of County Courthouse

    Source: United States Department of Justice Criminal Division

    A California man was charged today in a federal criminal complaint alleging he committed a bomb attack at a courthouse in Santa Maria, California, on Wednesday, in which at least five people were injured.

    Nathaniel James McGuire, 20, of Santa Maria, is charged with maliciously damaging a building by means of explosive.

    McGuire, who was arrested Wednesday shortly after the attack, is expected to make his initial appearance today in U.S. District Court in downtown Los Angeles.

    “This defendant will now face justice in federal court for his alleged attack that injured at least five people and struck fear across a county courthouse and an entire community,” said Attorney General Merrick B. Garland. “Attacks on our public institutions and on public servants threaten the safety of our communities and the rule of law itself. Such attacks will not be tolerated by the Justice Department.”

    According to an affidavit filed with the complaint, on Sept. 25, McGuire entered a courthouse of Santa Barbara County Superior Court and threw a bag into the lobby. The bag exploded and McGuire left the courthouse on foot. The explosion injured at least five people who were present at the courthouse at that time.

    Shortly thereafter, McGuire was apprehended and detained by law enforcement officials as he was trying to access a red Ford Mustang car parked outside the building. McGuire allegedly yelled that the government had taken his guns and that everyone needed to fight, rise up, and rebel.

    Inside the car, a deputy saw ammunition, a flare gun, and a box of fireworks. A search of the car revealed a shotgun, a rifle, more ammunition, a suspected bomb, and 10 Molotov cocktails. Law enforcement later rendered the bomb safe.

    A search of McGuire’s residence revealed an empty can with nails glued to the outside, a duffel bag containing matches, black powder, used and unused fireworks, and papers that appeared to be recipes for explosive material.

    “This defendant’s alleged misconduct was chilling,” said U.S. Attorney Martin Estrada for Central District of California. “Not only did he injure five people and traumatize many more, but he possessed a cache of weapons that would have allowed him to wreak even greater destruction had he not been stopped. Attacks on our courts, law enforcement officers, and other public servants are unacceptable, and it is critical that those who carry out such assaults be prosecuted to the fullest extent.”

    “The idea of intentionally setting off an explosive device to do harm and avoid justice in the process shocks the conscience,” said Assistant Director in Charge Akil Davis of the FBI Los Angeles Field Office. “Make no mistake, we are committed to holding McGuire accountable for this blatant act of violence. As always, we encourage the public to remain vigilant and to promptly report suspicious activities which could represent a threat to public safety.”

    “This was a shocking and unprecedented crime in our county, but, in spite of its audacity, the security of the Santa Maria courthouse was maintained,” said Sheriff Bill Brown of Santa Barbara County. “The suspect was swiftly apprehended by a court security officer, a sheriff’s deputy, two California Highway Patrol officers, and a district attorney’s investigator; we are proud of their resolute actions that almost certainly prevented further violence. We are also grateful for the substantial investigative assistance that has been provided by our colleagues with the Federal Bureau of Investigation, the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives, and from U.S. Attorney Martin Estrada and his office.”

    If convicted, McGuire faces a mandatory minimum penalty of seven years in prison and a maximum penalty of 40 years in prison. A federal district court judge will determine any sentence after considering the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines and other statutory factors.

    The FBI and Santa Barbara County Sheriff’s Office are investigating the case.

    Assistant U.S. Attorneys Mark Takla and Kathrynne N. Seiden for the Central District of California are prosecuting this case with substantial assistance from Trial Attorney Patrick Cashman of the Justice Department’s National Security Division.

    A complaint is merely an allegation. All defendants are presumed innocent until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt in a court of law. 

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Commissioner of Police leads JPC members to witness Force mascots launching into space with satellite (with photos)

    Source: Hong Kong Government special administrative region

    Commissioner of Police leads JPC members to witness Force mascots launching into space with satellite (with photos)
    Commissioner of Police leads JPC members to witness Force mascots launching into space with satellite (with photos)
    ******************************************************************************************

         The six-day Beijing-Jiuquan Exchange Tour held by the Junior Police Call (JPC) concluded its main itinerary today (September 28). Eighteen JPC members started their journey on September 24. In addition to visiting a number of historical and cultural sites in Beijing, the members also visited the Jiuquan Satellite Launch Centre in Gansu Province. This not only enhanced participants’ understanding of our nation’s history and popular science knowledge, it also provided opportunities for them to have a closer understanding of our country’s latest technological developments and achievements.      The Jiuquan Satellite Launch Centre is an important stop of the tour. On September 27, the Commissioner of Police, Mr Siu Chak-yee, led the delegation to witness the historic moment when the mascots of the Force and the JPC were launched into space together with a satellite.      The Jiuquan Satellite Launch Centre is the birthplace of China’s aerospace industry. The whole nation rejoiced after China’s first satellite “Dongfanghong 1” was launched into space from the centre on April 24, 1970. Since its establishment in 1958, the centre has carried out numerous historic launch missions, witnessing the glorious history of China’s aerospace development.      The satellite launched today is named “Shijian Satellite 19”. Accompanying the satellite into space were the Police’s anti-scam mascot “Little Grape” and JPC mascot “Mini Bean”. The cute “Little Grape” promotes anti-scam messages, while the amicable “Mini Bean” symbolises the self-discipline and bravery of JPC members.      This was the first time for JPC members to witness a satellite launch in Jiuquan. The space flight of “Mini Bean” symbolises the infinite possibilities of the younger generation and inspires JPC members to bravely pursue their dreams and explore the unknown.      In addition to witnessing the satellite launch, the Commissioner also led the JPC members to visit the launch site of the LandSpace liquid oxygen-methane carrier rocket, launch tower of the Shenzhou manned spaceships, and astronaut dormitory “Wen Tiange” to learn about the daily lives and training of astronauts.      The delegation will return to Hong Kong tomorrow (September 29). 

     
    Ends/Saturday, September 28, 2024Issued at HKT 18:23

    NNNN

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-OSI Economics: CAF Innovation Series | Accelerating Innovation-Based Economies in the Caribbean

    Source: CAF Development Bank of Latin America

    In collaboration with UWI, CAF presents a unique platform to address critical questions about the role of science and innovation in accelerating Caribbean development. This series is part of CAF’s commitment to fostering economic growth through innovation and sustainability, engaging policymakers, civil society, academia, and the private sector in dialogue. This inaugural lecture will align with UWI’s World of Work Programme, aiming to prepare future leaders for the challenges of modern workplaces, while offering insights into science diplomacy, space exploration, and AI.

    Date: Thursday, October 3rd, 2024
    Time: 5:00 pm – 6:30 pm

    *The event will be streamed on this microsite

     

    MIL OSI Economics –

  • MIL-OSI Banking: CAF Innovation Series | Accelerating Innovation-Based Economies in the Caribbean

    Source: CAF Development Bank of Latin America

    Alexander Figueroa
    Chief Operating Officer, Trust of the Americas

     joined The Trust at the end of February 2018 where he is serving as the Chief Operating Officer.  In that capacity, he is responsible for the management and operation of an internal team which supports the areas of finance, business planning, budgeting, human resources, administration and IT.

    Prior to joining The Trust, Alex had worked at the General Secretariat of the OAS. Starting as a field accountant, he worked his way through the ranks and culminated a 17-year career as the Chief, Financial Operations for the OAS where he supervised a staff of 40 and had overall responsibility for the OAS’ financial operations In Washington and at the 29 offices away from Headquarters.

    After leaving the OAS in December 2011, he started a company providing services in accounting, advisory, and taxes. The company’s portfolio included six non-profits among its clients. Alex holds a B.A. in Business Administration with a concentration in Finance from Towson University and is a Certified Governmental Financial Manager (CGFM). The CGFM is a professional certification awarded by the Association of Government Accountants.

    Alex is fluent in both English and Spanish. Dr. Mark Moyou is a Senior Data Scientist at NVIDIA, developing scalable machine learning solutions for top North American retailers. With previous roles at Lucidworks and Alstom Transportation, he brings a wealth of experience in machine learning applications. Dr. Moyou, who holds advanced degrees in Systems Engineering, also actively contributes to the tech community as the host of the Caribbean Tech Pioneers Podcast and the Southern Data Science Conference in Atlanta.

    MIL OSI Global Banks –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Liftoff! NASA’s SpaceX Crew-9 Launches to International Space Station

    Source: NASA

    The two crew members of NASA’s SpaceX Crew-9 mission launched at 1:17 p.m. EDT Saturday, for a science expedition aboard the International Space Station. This is the first human spaceflight mission launched from Space Launch Complex-40 at Cape Canaveral Space Force Station in Florida, and the agency’s ninth commercial crew rotation mission to the space station.
    A SpaceX Falcon 9 rocket propelled the Dragon spacecraft into orbit carrying NASA astronaut Nick Hague and Roscosmos cosmonaut Aleksandr Gorbunov. The spacecraft will dock autonomously to the forward-facing port of the station’s Harmony module at approximately 5:30 p.m., Sunday, Sept. 29, where Hague and Gorbunov will join Expedition 72 for a five-month stay aboard the orbiting laboratory.
    “This mission required a lot of operational and planning flexibility. I congratulate the entire team on a successful launch today, and godspeed to Nick and Aleksandr as they make their way to the space station,” said NASA Administrator Bill Nelson. “Our NASA wizards and our commercial and international partners have shown once again the success that comes from working together and adapting to changing circumstances without sacrificing the safe and professional operations of the International Space Station.”
    During Dragon’s flight, SpaceX will monitor a series of automatic spacecraft maneuvers from its mission control center in Hawthorne, California. NASA will monitor space station operations throughout the flight from the Mission Control Center at the agency’s Johnson Space Center in Houston.
    NASA will provide live coverage of rendezvous, docking, and hatch opening, beginning at 3:30 p.m., Sept. 29, on NASA+ and the agency’s website. NASA also will broadcast the crew welcome ceremony once Hague and Gorbunov are aboard the orbital outpost. Learn how to stream NASA content through a variety of platforms, including social media.
    The duo will join the space station’s Expedition 72 crew of NASA astronauts Michael Barratt, Matthew Dominick, Jeanette Epps, Don Pettit, Butch Wilmore, and Suni Williams, as well as Roscosmos cosmonauts Alexander Grebenkin, Alexey Ovchinin, and Ivan Vagner. The number of crew aboard the space station will increase to 11 for a short time until Crew-8 members Barratt, Dominick, Epps, and Grebenkin depart the space station in early October.
    The crewmates will conduct more than 200 scientific investigations, including blood clotting studies, moisture effects on plants grown in space, and vision changes in astronauts during their mission. Following their stay aboard the space station, Hague and Gorbunov will be joined by Williams and Wilmore to return to Earth in February 2025.
    With this mission, NASA continues to maximize the use of the orbiting laboratory, where people have lived and worked continuously for more than 23 years, testing technologies, performing science, and developing the skills needed to operate future commercial destinations in low Earth orbit and explore farther from Earth. Research conducted at the space station benefits people on Earth and paves the way for future long-duration missions to the Moon under NASA’s Artemis campaign, and beyond.
    More about Crew-9
    Hague is the commander of Crew-9 and is making his second trip to the orbital outpost since his selection as an astronaut in 2013. He will serve as a mission specialist during Expedition 72/73 aboard the space station. Follow @AstroHague on X and Instagram.
    Roscosmos cosmonaut Aleksandr Gorbunov is flying on his first mission. He will serve as a flight engineer during Expeditions 72/73.
    Learn more about NASA’s SpaceX Crew-9 mission and the agency’s Commercial Crew Program at:
    https://www.nasa.gov/commercialcrew
    -end-
    Josh Finch / Jimi RussellHeadquarters, Washington202-358-1100joshua.a.finch@nasa.gov / james.j.russell@nasa.gov
    Steven Siceloff / Danielle Sempsrott / Stephanie PlucinskyKennedy Space Center, Florida321-867-2468steven.p.siceloff@nasa.gov / danielle.c.semprott@nasa.gov / stephanie.n.plucinsky@nasa.gov
    Leah Cheshier / Sandra JonesJohnson Space Center, Houston281-483-5111leah.d.cheshier@nasa.gov / sandra.p.jones@nasa.gov

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI Global: The problem with new claims that Marlowe’s Doctor Faustus was co-written by a forgotten dramatist

    Source: The Conversation – UK – By Gabriel Egan, Professor of Shakespeare Studies, De Montfort University

    Painting of an unknown 21-year-old man, widely supposed to be Christopher Marlowe (1585). Corpus Christi College

    In Shakespeare’s time, about a quarter of all plays were collaboratively written by two or more dramatists. Christopher Marlowe’s classic work Doctor Faustus was first performed in the 1580s or early 1590s but only published in 1604, 11 years after his death. The dramatists Samuel Rowley and William Bird were paid in 1602 to write new additions to the play.

    However, researchers have long suspected that the original play was not written by Marlowe alone. Its broader comic parts, largely in prose, have been thought to be the work of a second writer who never got the credit they deserved.

    Previous research has suggested one of the dramatists Thomas Nashe or Henry Porter. Nashe left us only one play, Summer’s Last Will and Testament (1592). Porter wrote several in collaboration with other dramatists, but only one sole-authored play survives, The Two Angry Women of Abingdon (1599).

    So, can a new computer analysis of texts resolve this question and finally credit the second author of Doctor Faustus?

    In an article in the journal Notes & Queries and a piece in the Guardian, Darren Freebury-Jones describes computer techniques that point to Marlowe’s co-author being Porter. But we have found methodological problems in Freebury-Jones’s approach, and believe the evidence he presents does not support the conclusions he draws from it.

    Computational analysis can certainly generate new knowledge about authorship, but his work is not a convincing example of this burgeoning art.

    Unique matches

    Freebury-Jones’s Notes & Queries article presents tables from a free online dataset, Collocations and N-Grams, created by independent Shakespeare analyst Pervez Rizvi. For 527 plays from the 1550s to the 1650s (pretty much all of those that have survived from this period), the dataset lists all four-word phrases that each play has in common with the other 526.

    But the phrases Rizvi considers most significant are those that appear only in the play under consideration and one other play – known as “unique matches”. For each of the 527 plays, he ranks which other plays have the most unique matches to it.

    If these rare phrases are particular to each dramatist’s idiolect (unique way of speaking), then researchers should, for example, find at the top of the Macbeth table some other plays by Shakespeare. And we do: among the top-ten plays that share the most unique matches with Macbeth are Julius Caesar, Coriolanus, King Lear and Hamlet.

    But while the top-ten list for Macbeth gives grounds for optimism about Freebury-Jones’s method, since four of its plays are Shakespeare’s, the top-ten list for Doctor Faustus, reproduced below, dashes this:

    1. The Taming of a Shrew
    2. A Trick to Catch the Old One
    3. The Devil’s Charter
    4. Albumazar
    5. Caesar and Pompey, or Caesar’s Revenge
    6. The Family of Love
    7. Messalina, the Roman Empress
    8. The Sisters
    9. The Two Angry Women of Abingdon
    10. Tamburlaine

    While Porter is present in this list as the author of The Two Angry Women of Abingdon, Marlowe himself has only one play in it: Tamburlaine (1587) at position ten. If this method were detecting authorship, Marlowe’s other plays should dominate the list, just as the Macbeth list is dominated by Shakespeare plays.

    Moreover, Porter’s play also appears at number ten for unique matches with Macbeth. This suggests the evidence for Porter being a coauthor of Macbeth is almost as strong as for Doctor Faustus – but Freebury-Jones makes no mention of this.

    Illustration from the title page of a 1620 edition of Christopher Marlowe’s Doctor Faustus.
    John Wright

    Porter can hardly be expected to dominate any top-ten list as Shakespeare does for Macbeth, since he left us only play. In contrast, with his roughly 1 million words of writing, Shakespeare presents a much greater “surface area” to any method that counts rare words or phrases – so he has more opportunities than anyone else to write the rare phrases we are looking for. To compensate for this, Rizvi discounts the significance of matches to authors with large canons.

    Freebury-Jones mentions that the raw counts “are divided by the combined word counts for each pairing”, which is the scaling process Rizvi describes in the notes to Collocations and N-Grams. But nobody knows if this is the right way to scale for different canons or not, because the science of this problem has not been explored.

    Rizvi changed his scaling formula in 2018 at my (Gabriel Egan’s) suggestion. But I did not claim to have solved the problem, and I consider it an open question whether we can derive a fair formula for such scaling.

    Furthermore, Rizvi’s dataset does not distinguish between the plays that Shakespeare wrote alone and those he co-wrote, so his scaling factor treats as Shakespeare’s some substantial writings of other authors.

    Further problems

    This highlights another question with the analysis. In the top-ten list for unique matches with Macbeth are two plays co-authored by the dramatists Francis Beaumont and John Fletcher: The Woman Hater (1606) and Philaster (1620).

    So, what should a researcher do when a play has more than one author? One response is to count matches to Beaumont’s part separately from matches to Fletcher’s part, using the widely accepted divisions of these two plays – as first proposed by Cyrus Hoy, an expert in the English Renaissance stage, in 1958. Alternatively, you could exclude co-authored plays entirely, as many authorship investigators do.

    But Freebury-Jones says nothing about this problem of judging writers by their co-authored works. This consideration bears somewhat on Macbeth too, since many Shakespearians believe the playwright Thomas Middleton wrote about 5%-10% of it.

    So where does all this leave Porter? Freebury-Jones ends his Notes & Queries piece with a cautious claim: “We may reasonably conclude that Henry Porter is a likelier candidate than [Thomas] Nashe for Marlowe’s collaborator on Doctor Faustus.”

    But in speaking to the Guardian, he abandoned this caution. He reports being “astonished by just how close the dramatic language of Doctor Faustus actually was to Porter”, and insists that we must recognise “Porter as the most likely collaborator”.

    It’s possible that Porter did co-write Doctor Faustus. But the problems with Freebury-Jones’s analysis mean that, for now, we still can’t say for sure.


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    The authors 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. The problem with new claims that Marlowe’s Doctor Faustus was co-written by a forgotten dramatist – https://theconversation.com/the-problem-with-new-claims-that-marlowes-doctor-faustus-was-co-written-by-a-forgotten-dramatist-239968

    MIL OSI – Global Reports –

  • MIL-OSI USA: NASA Astronaut Nick Hague Boosts Human Health Research in Space

    Source: NASA

    NASA astronaut Nick Hague and Roscosmos cosmonaut Aleksandr Gorbunov will soon dock with the International Space Station as part of the agency’s SpaceX Crew-9 mission, a venture which will enhance scientific research and bolster the knowledge about how people can live and work in space.
    During the planned five-month mission, Hague’s mission tasks will include participating in a variety of research projects for NASA’s Human Research Program. Each study is designed to help address the health challenges that astronauts may face during future long-duration missions to the Moon, Mars, and beyond.
    “Hague’s experiences and research may potentially lead to scientific breakthroughs that may not be possible on Earth,” said Steven Platts, chief scientist for human research at NASA’s Johnson Space Center in Houston.
    A major focus for Hague’s time aboard the station is to study the suite of space-related vision disorders called Spaceflight Associated Neuro-ocular Syndrome (SANS) which occur as body fluids shift toward the head in weightlessness. These shifts can cause changes to the eye: the optic nerve can swell, the retina may develop folds, and the back of the eye can even flatten. Earlier research suggests multiple factors contribute to the syndrome, so two vision-related studies on this mission will tackle different yet distinct approaches that may help address or even prevent such changes during future missions.
    One project, called Thigh Cuff, will explore whether wearing fitted cuffs could counter the syndrome by keeping more bodily fluids in the legs. Thigh cuffs are compact, lightweight, and easy to use, which makes them appealing for potential use during long-duration, deep space missions.
    For this study, Hague will wear the thigh cuffs for six hours during two sessions. To help researchers measure how well the cuffs work, he will record ultrasound images of blood flow in his legs and neck veins during the sessions. Researchers will also compare this data against ultrasounds taken without the cuff to examine flow differences.
    “Thigh cuffs like these may allow researchers to better investigate medical conditions that result in extra fluid in the brain or too much blood returning to the heart,” said study leader Brandon Macias at NASA Johnson.
    In another study, Hague will test if a vitamin regimen may help combat SANS. The study, led by Sara Zwart, a nutritional biochemist at NASA Johnson, seeks to examine if a daily vitamin B supplement—taken before, during, and after flight—can prevent or mitigate swelling at the back of the eye. The research will also assess how an individual’s genetics may influence the response.
    “Earlier research suggests that some people are more susceptible to this ocular syndrome than others based on genetics that can influence B vitamin requirements, so taking daily vitamins may make all the difference,” Zwart said. “We think by giving the B vitamins, we could be taking that piece of genetic variability out of the equation.”
    The work also may eventually improve care options for women on Earth with polycystic ovary syndrome, a condition that can cause eye changes and infertility in women. Researchers hope that patients may similarly benefit from targeting the same genetic pathways and vitamin supplementation as crew members in space.
    Hague also will record data to study whether a new way of administering a common anti-nausea medicine can help alleviate motion sickness following launch and landing. In this study, Hague can self-administer a novel nasal gel formulation of the medication scopolamine. Hague will note his experiences using this medicine and any other motion sickness aides, including alternative medications or behavioral interventions like specific head movements.
    This research, led by neuroscientist Scott  Wood of NASA Johnson, eventually will include 48 people.
    “Our goal is to understand how to help future space travelers adapt to motion sickness when living and working in space,” Wood said. “Crew members must stay healthy and perform key tasks, including landing on the Moon and other destinations.”
    To help NASA plan future missions, Hague also will participate in human research studies that tackle other space challenges, such as avoiding injury upon landing back on Earth and learning how space travel affects the human body on a molecular level.
    ____
    NASA’s Human Research Program pursues the best methods and technologies to support safe, productive human space travel. The program studies how spaceflight affects human bodies and behaviors through science conducted in laboratories, ground-based analogs, commercial missions, and the International Space Station. Such research continues to drive NASA’s mission to innovate ways that keep astronauts healthy and mission-ready as space exploration expands to the Moon, Mars, and beyond.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI Global: Hurricane Helene power outages leave millions in the dark – history shows poorer areas often wait longest for electricity to be restored

    Source: The Conversation – USA – By Chuanyi Ji, Associate Professor of Engineering, Georgia Institute of Technology

    Strong winds from Hurricane Helene, one of the most powerful storms to hit the Southeast, flooded roads and cut power in multiple states. AP Photo/Mike Carlson

    Hurricane Helene left more than 4 million homes and businesses in the dark across Florida, Georgia and the Carolinas after hitting Florida’s Big Bend region as a powerful Category 4 storm late on Sept. 26, 2024. As Helene’s rains moved inland, and mountain rivers caused devastating flooding, officials warned that fixing downed utility lines and restoring power would take days in some areas.

    Electricity is essential to just about everyone – rich and poor, old and young. Yet, when severe storms strike, socioeconomically disadvantaged communities often wait longest to recover.

    That isn’t just a perception.

    We analyzed data from over 15 million consumers in 588 U.S. counties who lost power when hurricanes made landfall between January 2017 and October 2020. The results show that poorer communities did indeed wait longer for the lights to go back on.

    A 10 percentile drop in socioeconomic status in the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention’s social vulnerability index was associated with a 6.1% longer outage on average. This corresponds to waiting an extra 170 minutes on average for power to be restored, and sometimes much longer.

    The top map shows the total duration of power outages over eight storms by county. The lower map is a comparison with socioeconomic status taken into account, showing that counties with lower average socioeconomic status have longer outages than expected.
    Ganz et al, 2023, PNAS Nexus

    Implications for policy and utilities

    One likely reason for this disparity is written into utilities’ standard storm recovery policies. Often, these polices prioritize critical infrastructure first when restoring power after an outage, then large commercial and industrial customers. They next seek to recover as many households as they can as quickly as possible.

    While this approach may seem procedurally fair, these recovery routines appear to have an unintended effect of often making vulnerable communities wait longer for electricity to be restored. One reason may be that these communities are farther from critical infrastructure, or they may be predominantly in older neighborhoods where power infrastructure requires more significant repairs.

    Commercial areas are often higher on the priority list for faster power recovery in an outage. This store was still closed for several days during Texas’ widespread outages in 2021.
    Montinique Monroe/Getty Images

    The upshot is that households that are already at greater risk from severe weather – whether due to being in flood-prone areas or in vulnerable buildings – and those who are least likely to have insurance or other resources to help them recover are also likely to face the longest storm-caused power outages. Long outages can mean refrigerated food goes bad, no running water and delays in repairing damage, including delays in running fans to dry out water damage and avoid mold.

    Our study spanned 108 service regions, including investor-owned utilities, cooperatives and public utilities. The differential impact on poorer communities did not line up with any particular storm, region or individual utility. We also found no correlation with race, ethnicity or housing type. Only average socioeconomic level stood out.

    How to make power recovery less biased

    There are ways to improve power recovery times for everyone, beyond the necessary work of improving the stability of power distribution.

    Policymakers and utilities can start by reexamining power restoration practices and power infrastructure maintenance, such as replacing aging utility poles and trimming trees, with disadvantaged communities in mind.

    Power providers already have granular data on power usage and grid performance in their service regions. They can begin experimenting with alternative recovery routines that consider the vulnerability of their customers in ways that do not substantially affect average recovery duration.

    People in some Fort Myers, Fla., neighborhoods still lacked water and electricity more than a week after Hurricane Ian in 2022.
    Montinique Monroe/Getty Images

    For socioeconomically vulnerable regions that are likely to experience long outages because of their locations and possibly the aging energy infrastructure, utilities and policymakers can proactively ensure that households are well prepared to evacuate or have access to backup sources of power.

    For example, the U.S. Department of Energy announced in October 2023 that it would invest in developing dozens of resilience hubs and microgrids to help supply local power to key buildings within communities when the wider grid goes down. Louisiana plans several of these hubs, using solar and large-scale batteries, in or near disadvantaged communities.

    Policymakers and utilities can also invest in broader energy infrastructure and renewable energy in these vulnerable communities. The U.S. Department of Energy’s Justice40 program directs that 40% of the benefit from certain federal energy, transportation and housing investments benefit disadvantaged communities. That may help residents who need public help the most.

    Severe weather events are becoming more common as global temperatures rise. That increases the need for better planning and approaches that don’t leave low-income residents in the dark.

    Chenghao Duan, a Ph.D. student at Georgia Tech, also contributed to this article. This article, originally published on Feb. 7, 2024, has been updated with Hurricane Helene’s rising power outage toll.

    The authors do not work for, consult, own shares in or receive funding from any company or organization that would benefit from this article, and have disclosed no relevant affiliations beyond their academic appointment.

    – ref. Hurricane Helene power outages leave millions in the dark – history shows poorer areas often wait longest for electricity to be restored – https://theconversation.com/hurricane-helene-power-outages-leave-millions-in-the-dark-history-shows-poorer-areas-often-wait-longest-for-electricity-to-be-restored-240001

    MIL OSI – Global Reports –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Secretary, Smt Alka Upadhyaya chairs a National Webinar on the eve of World Rabies Day in New Delhi

    Source: Government of India

    Secretary, Smt Alka Upadhyaya chairs a National Webinar on the eve of World Rabies Day in New Delhi

    Workshop with the Urban and local bodies for streamlining implementation and continuous monitoring of vaccination : Smt. Alka Upadhyaya

    Posted On: 28 SEP 2024 6:21PM by PIB Delhi

    Secretary, Department of Animal Husbandry and Dairying, Ministry of Fisheries,Animal Husbandry and Dairying, Smt Alka Upadhyaya chaired  a National Webinar on the eve of World Rabies Day yesterday in New Delhi.

    Animal Husbandry Commissioner, Dr Abhijit Mitra, Joint Secretary (Livestock Health) Smt Sarita Chouhan, Joint Secretary (GC/PC/Admin) Smt. Suparna Pachouri and technical officers of the Department participated in the meeting. Over 1000 participants joined the webinar online from across the country, with officers from State Veterinary Departments, Veterinary Universities, Animal Welfare Boards and Animal Welfare NGOs.

    Smt.  Upadhyaya in her keynote address, urged the participants and all the stakeholders to take a pledge to put best efforts to control and eliminate the dog mediated Rabies from our country. She also mentioned that, the deadly rabies virus has to be stopped by using the best available prevention and control  technologies in a collaborative way. Referring to the  central role of the Urban Local Bodies and Panchayati Raj Institutions in Mass Dog Vaccination, the Secretary suggested to hold a workshop with the Urban and local bodies for streamlining implementation and continuous monitoring of vaccination as MDV is the most cost effective method of Rabies control.

    Dr. Abhijit Mitra reiterated that mass vaccination of dogs and control of dog population is equally important to control, manage and prevent Rabies infection. However, he emphasised that increasing stray dog population poses a big challenge to rabies control and coordinated effort by Urban Local Bodies and Panchayati Raj Institutions with the State Animal husbandry department essential to control the dog population.

    Smt Sarita Chauhan talked about the importance of  creating awareness among all strata of public especially children and responsible pet ownership besides coordinated efforts by all concerned departments to increase vaccination of stray dogs.  The state veterinary departments of Goa, Kerala and Sikkim gave details of the planning and action for successfully controlling the disease and its spread in their respective states  The novel practices adopted by these states in control and maintenance of controlled status of disease was appreciated  and all other states were called upon to replicate the most conducive model for their states. The activities including mass vaccination, sterilization, and robust public awareness campaigns. Strengthening rabies surveillance, legislation, and reporting systems will be essential for maintaining rabies-free status and ensuring public safety, she specified during her session.

    Dr. Simmi Tiwari, Joint Director and Head, Centre for One Health, National Centre for Disease Control, presented an update on India’s National Rabies Control Program. The program, which aims to eliminate dog-mediated rabies by 2030, collaborates internationally and provides technical support to neighbouring countries. Key strategies include mass dog vaccination and post-exposure prophylaxis.

    Dr Sharda from Department of Microbiology, Karnataka Veterinary, Animal and Fisheries Science University made a presentation on Rabies diagnosis. State Animal Husbandry Departments from  Goa, Kerala and  Sikkim were made  presentations  on their model  Rabies Elimination programs and achievements.

    *****

    SS

    (Release ID: 2059872) Visitor Counter : 53

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Governor Newsom issues legislative update 9.28.24

    Source: US State of California 2

    Sep 28, 2024

    SACRAMENTO – Governor Gavin Newsom today announced that he has signed the following bills:
     

    • AB 869 by Assemblymember Jim Wood (D-Healdsburg) – Hospitals: seismic safety compliance.
    • AB 1008 by Assemblymember Rebecca Bauer-Kahan (D-Orinda) – California Consumer Privacy Act of 2018: personal information.
    • AB 1034 by Assemblymember Tim Grayson (D-Concord) – Labor Code Private Attorneys General Act of 2004: exemption: construction industry employees.
    • AB 1137 by Assemblymember Reginald Byron Jones-Sawyer, Sr. (D-Los Angeles) – Excluded employees.
    • AB 1186 by Assemblymember Mia Bonta (D-Oakland) – Restitution fines.
    • AB 1239 by Assemblymember Lisa Calderon (D-Whittier) – Workers’ compensation: disability payments.
    • AB 1282 by Assemblymember Josh Lowenthal (D-Long Beach) – Mental health: impacts of social media.
    • AB 1575 by Assemblymember Jacqui Irwin (D-Thousand Oaks) – Public postsecondary education: students codes of conduct: advisers.
    • AB 1807 by Assemblymember Sabrina Cervantes (D-Riverside) – County of Riverside Citizens Redistricting Commission.
    • AB 1871 by Assemblymember Juan Alanis (R-Modesto) – Adopted course of study for grades 7 to 12: social sciences: personal financial literacy.
    • AB 1877 by Assemblymember Dr. Corey Jackson (D-Moreno Valley) – Juveniles: sealing records.
    • AB 1899 by Assemblymember Sabrina Cervantes (D-Riverside) – Courts.
    • AB 1905 by Assemblymember Dawn Addis (D-Morro Bay) – Public postsecondary education: employment: settlements, informal resolutions, and retreat rights.
    • AB 1913 by Assemblymember Dawn Addis (D-Morro Bay) – Pupil safety: child abuse prevention: training.
    • AB 1936 by Assemblymember Sabrina Cervantes (D-Riverside) – Maternal mental health screenings.
    • AB 1954 by Assemblymember Juan Alanis (R-Modesto) – Sexually violent predators.
    • AB 2013 by Assemblymember Jacqui Irwin (D-Thousand Oaks) – Generative artificial intelligence: training data transparency.
    • AB 2063 by Assemblymember Brian Maienschein (D-San Diego) – Health care coverage.
    • AB 2080 by Assemblymember Dr. Joaquin Arambula (D-Fresno) – University of California: schools of medicine: report.
    • AB 2085 by Assemblymember Rebecca Bauer-Kahan (D-Orinda) – Planning and zoning: permitted use: community clinic.
    • AB 2099 by Assemblymember Rebecca Bauer-Kahan (D-Orinda) – Crimes: reproductive health services.
    • AB 2105 by Assemblymember Josh Lowenthal (D-Long Beach) – Coverage for PANDAS and PANS.
    • AB 2234 by Assemblymember Tasha Boerner (D-Encinitas) – Vehicles: electric bicycles.
    • AB 2284 by Assemblymember Tim Grayson (D-Concord) – County employees’ retirement: compensation.
    • AB 2295 by Assemblymember Dawn Addis (D-Morro Bay) – Crimes: commencement of prosecution.
    • AB 2310 by Assemblymember Gregg Hart (D-Santa Barbara) – Parole hearings: language access.
    • AB 2326 by Assemblymember David Alvarez (D-San Diego) – Equity in Higher Education Act: discrimination: compliance, regulations, and reports.
    • AB 2395 by Assemblymember Sharon Quirk-Silva (D-Fullerton) – California State University: extension programs, special session, and self-supporting instructional programs: revenues.
    • AB 2402 by Assemblymember Josh Lowenthal (D-Long Beach) – Drink spiking.
    • AB 2407 by Assemblymember Gregg Hart (D-Santa Barbara) – Public postsecondary educational institutions: sexual harassment complaints: state audits.
    • AB 2473 by the Committee on Education – English Language Learner Acquisition and Development Pilot Program repeal: teacher credentialing authorizations: fingerprints and related information: high school coursework and graduation requirements for pupils participating in a newcomer program.
    • AB 2481 by Assemblymember Josh Lowenthal (D-Long Beach) – Social media-related threats: reporting.
    • AB 2501 by Assemblymember David Alvarez (D-San Diego) – Water quality control plans: donations and grants.
    • AB 2533 by Assemblymember Juan Carrillo (D-Palmdale) – Accessory dwelling units: junior accessory dwelling units: unpermitted developments.
    • AB 2579 by Assemblymember Sharon Quirk-Silva (D-Fullerton) – Inspections: exterior elevated elements.
    • AB 2581 by Assemblymember Brian Maienschein (D-San Diego) – Healing arts: continuing education: maternal mental health.
    • AB 2628 by Assemblymember Gregg Hart (D-Santa Barbara) – California State Auditor: internet website.
    • AB 2630 by Assemblymember Mia Bonta (D-Oakland) – Pupil health: oral health assessment.
    • AB 2643 by Assemblymember Jim Wood (D-Healdsburg) – Cannabis cultivation: environmental remediation.
    • AB 2711 by Assemblymember James C. Ramos (D-Highland) – Suspensions and expulsions: voluntary disclosures.
    • AB 2749 by Assemblymember Jim Wood (D-Healdsburg) – California Health Benefit Exchange: financial assistance.
    • AB 2854 by Assemblymember Jacqui Irwin (D-Thousand Oaks) – Bradley-Burns Uniform Local Sales and Use Tax Law.
    • AB 2885 by Assemblymember Rebecca Bauer-Kahan (D-Orinda) – Artificial intelligence.
    • AB 2925 by Assemblymember Laura Friedman (D-Glendale) – Postsecondary education: Equity in Higher Education Act: prohibition on discrimination: training.
    • AB 2929 by Assemblymember Juan Carrillo (D-Palmdale) – Dependents: family finding.
    • AB 2935 by Assemblymember Brian Maienschein (D-San Diego) – Foster children: consumer credit reports.
    • AB 2995 by Assemblymember Dr. Corey Jackson (D-Moreno Valley) – Public health: alcohol and drug programs.
    • AB 3030 by Assemblymember Lisa Calderon (D-Whittier) – Health care services: artificial intelligence.
    • AB 3218 by Assemblymember Jim Wood (D-Healdsburg) – Unflavored Tobacco List.
    • AB 3223 by Assemblymember Lori Wilson (D-Suisun City) – Foster Youth Services Coordinating Program.
    • AB 3240 by Assemblymember Lisa Calderon (D-Whittier) – California Ban on Scholarship Displacement Act of 2021: Cal Grant awards.
    • AB 3259 by Assemblymember Lori Wilson (D-Suisun City) – Transactions and use taxes: City of Campbell: City of Pinole: County of Solano.
    • AB 3281 by the Committee on Judiciary – Judiciary omnibus.
    • AB 3284 by the Committee on Elections – Elections omnibus bill.
    • SB 268 by Senator Marie Alvarado-Gil (D-Jackson) – Crimes: serious and violent felonies.
    • SB 295 by Senator Bill Dodd (D-Napa) – Board of Pilot Commissioners: surcharge.
    • SB 483 by Senator Dave Cortese (D-San Jose) – Pupil rights: prone restraint.
    • SB 532 by Senator Scott Wiener (D-San Francisco) – Parking payment zones.
    • SB 537 by Senator Josh Becker (D-Menlo Park) – City or County of Los Angeles: memorial to forcibly deported Mexican Americans and Mexican immigrants.
    • SB 549 by Senator Josh Newman (D-Fullerton) – Gaming: Tribal Nations Access to Justice Act.
    • SB 597 by Senator Steven Glazer (D-Orinda) – Building standards: rainwater catchment systems.
    • SB 607 by Senator Anthony Portantino (D-Burbank) – Controlled substances.
    • SB 691 by Senator Anthony Portantino (D-Burbank) – Pupil attendance: truancy notifications.
    • SB 707 by Senator Josh Newman (D-Fullerton) – Responsible Textile Recovery Act of 2024.
    • SB 897 by Senator Josh Newman (D-Fullerton) – Pupil attendance: interdistrict attendance: school districts of choice.
    • SB 904 by Senator Bill Dodd (D-Napa) – Sonoma-Marin Area Rail Transit District.
    • SB 908 by Senator Dave Cortese (D-San Jose) – Fentanyl: child deaths.
    • SB 957 by Senator Scott Wiener (D-San Francisco) – Data collection: sexual orientation, gender identity, and intersex status.
    • SB 969 by Senator Scott Wiener (D-San Francisco) – Alcoholic beverages: entertainment zones: consumption.
    • SB 988 by Senator Scott Wiener (D-San Francisco) – Freelance Worker Protection Act.
    • SB 991 by Senator Lena Gonzalez (D-Long Beach) – School districts: Los Angeles Unified School District: inspector general.
    • SB 997 by Senator Anthony Portantino (D-Burbank) –Pupil health: opioid antagonists and fentanyl test strips.
    • SB 1016 by Senator Lena Gonzalez (D-Long Beach) – Latino and Indigenous Disparities Reduction Act.
    • SB 1059 by Senator Steven Bradford (D-Gardena) – Cannabis: local taxation: gross receipts.
    • SB 1064 by Senator John Laird (D-Santa Cruz) – Cannabis: operator and separate premises license types: excessive concentration of licenses.
    • SB 1090 by Senator María Elena Durazo (D-Los Angeles) – Unemployment insurance: disability and paid family leave: claim administration.
    • SB 1100 by Senator Anthony Portantino (D-Burbank) – Discrimination: driver’s license.
    • SB 1109 by Senator Steven Bradford (D-Gardena) – Cannabis: demographic information of license applicants.
    • SB 1120 by Senator Josh Becker (D-Menlo Park) – Health care coverage: utilization review.
    • SB 1131 by Senator Lena Gonzalez (D-Long Beach) – Medi-Cal providers: family planning.
    • SB 1147 by Senator Anthony Portantino (D-Burbank) – Drinking water: microplastics levels.
    • SB 1162 by Senator Dave Cortese (D-San Jose) – Public contracts: employment compliance reports: apprenticeship programs.
    • SB 1166 by Senator Bill Dodd (D-Napa) – Public postsecondary education: sex discrimination reports.
    • SB 1180 by Senator Angelique Ashby (D-Sacramento) – Health care coverage: emergency medical services.
    • SB 1195 by Senator Monique Limόn (D-Santa Barbara) – Assessments: advanced placement examinations: fall testing date.
    • SB 1209 by Senator Dave Cortese (D-San Jose) – Local agency formation commission: indemnification.
    • SB 1223 by Senator Josh Becker (D-Menlo Park) – Consumer privacy: sensitive personal information: neural data.
    • SB 1240 by Senator Marie Alvarado-Gil (D-Jackson) – Public Employees’ Retirement System: contracting agencies: consolidation.
    • SB 1263 by Senator Josh Newman (D-Fullerton) – Teacher credentialing: teaching performance assessment: workgroup.
    • SB 1277 by Senator Henry Stern (D-Los Angeles) – Pupil instruction: genocide education: the Holocaust.
    • SB 1283 by Senator Henry Stern (D-Los Angeles) – Pupils: use of social media.
    • SB 1287 by Senator Steven Glazer (D-Orinda) – Public postsecondary education: Equity in Higher Education Act: prohibition on violence, harassment, intimidation, and discrimination.
    • SB 1288 by Senator Josh Becker (D-Menlo Park) – Public schools: artificial intelligence working group.
    • SB 1300 by Senator Dave Cortese (D-San Jose) – Health facility closure: public notice: inpatient psychiatric and perinatal services.
    • SB 1350 by Senator María Elena Durazo (D-Los Angeles) – Occupational safety and health: definitions.
    • SB 1447 by Senator María Elena Durazo (D-Los Angeles) – Hospitals: seismic compliance: Children’s Hospital Los Angeles.
    • SB 1488 by Senator María Elena Durazo (D-Los Angeles) – Outdoor advertising displays: exemptions.
    • SB 1490 by Senator María Elena Durazo (D-Los Angeles) – Food delivery platforms.
    • SB 1498 by Senator Angelique Ashby (D-Sacramento) – Cannabis and industrial hemp: advertising: civil action.
    • SB 1504 by Senator Henry Stern (D-Los Angeles) – Cyberbullying Protection Act.

     
    The Governor also announced that he has vetoed the following bills:
     

    • AB 1168 by Assemblymember Steve Bennett (D-Ventura) – Emergency medical services (EMS): prehospital EMS. A veto message can be found here.
    • AB 1788 by Assemblymember Sharon Quirk-Silva (D-Fullerton) – Mental health multidisciplinary personnel team. A veto message can be found here.
    • AB 1826 by Assemblymember Chris R. Holden (D-Pasadena) – Digital Infrastructure and Video Competition Act of 2024. A veto message can be found here.
    • AB 1949 by Assemblymember Buffy Wicks (D-Oakland) – California Consumer Privacy Act of 2020: collection of personal information of a consumer less than 18 years of age. A veto message can be found here.
    • AB 2095 by Assemblymember Brian Maienschein (D-San Diego) – Publication: newspapers of general circulation. A veto message can be found here.
    • AB 2098 by Assemblymember Eduardo Garcia (D-Coachella) – California Health Facilities Financing Authority Act: nondesignated hospitals: loan repayment. A veto message can be found here.
    • AB 2138 by Assemblymember James C. Ramos (D-Highland) – Peace officers: tribal police pilot project. A veto message can be found here.
    • AB 2279 by Assemblymember Sabrina Cervantes (D-Riverside) – Missing and Murdered Indigenous Persons Justice Program. A veto message can be found here.
    • AB 2467 by Assemblymember Rebecca Bauer-Kahan (D-Orinda) – Health care coverage for menopause. A veto message can be found here.
    • AB 2736 by Assemblymember Juan Carrillo (D-Palmdale) – Veterans: benefits. A veto message can be found here.
    • AB 2936 by Assemblymember Dr. Corey Jackson (D-Moreno Valley) – Higher Education Reconciliation Act. A veto message can be found here.
    • AB 3031 by Assemblymember Alex Lee (D-San Jose) – LGBTQ+ Commission. A veto message can be found here.
    • AB 3077 by Assemblymember Gregg Hart (D-Santa Barbara) – Criminal procedure: borderline personality disorder. A veto message can be found here.
    • AB 3129 by Assemblymember Jim Wood (D-Healdsburg) – Health care system consolidation. A veto message can be found here.
    • SB 85 by Senator Scott Wiener (D-San Francisco) – Immigration: case management and social services. A veto message can be found here.
    • SB 227 by Senator María Elena Durazo (D-Los Angeles) – Unemployment: Excluded Workers Program. A veto message can be found here.
    • SB 278 by Senator Bill Dodd (D-Napa) – Elder abuse: emergency financial contact program. A veto message can be found here.
    • SB 357 by Senator Anthony Portantino (D-Burbank) – Vehicles: physician and surgeon reporting. A veto message can be found here.
    • SB 907 by Senator Josh Newman (D-Fullerton) – Orange County Board of Education: members. A veto message can be found here.
    • SB 961 by Senator Scott Wiener (D-San Francisco) – Vehicles: safety equipment. A veto message can be found here.
    • SB 966 by Senator Scott Wiener (D-San Francisco) – Pharmacy benefits. A veto message can be found here.
    • SB 971 by Senator Anthony Portantino (D-Burbank) – Community colleges: exemption from nonresident tuition fee: resident of a region impacted by war or regional conflict. A veto message can be found here.
    • SB 1119 by Senator Josh Newman (D-Fullerton) – Hospitals: seismic compliance. A veto message can be found here.
    • SB 1246 by Senator Monique Limόn (D-Santa Barbara) – California Prompt Payment Act: nonprofit organizations. A veto message can be found here.
    • SB 1299 by Senator Dave Cortese (D-San Jose) – Farmworkers: benefits. A veto message can be found here.

    For full text of the bills, visit: http://leginfo.legislature.ca.gov.

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  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: Conservation and Fisheries – Cut to Orange Roughy catch will see no recovery within five years – DSCC

    Source: Greenpeace

    Deep Sea Conservation Coalition (DSCC) Statement
    Environmentalists say today’s decision to reduce an orange roughy catch limit is simply the ‘bare minimum’ for the troubled fishery and are calling on the government to ban bottom trawling on seamounts so that populations of the deep sea fish can rebuild.
    Oceans and Fisheries Minister Shane Jones has decided to cut the total catch limit for a declining orange roughy stock in the Tasman Sea by 1,221 tonnes (57%). But the Deep Sea Conservation Coalition (DSCC) points out the modelling used to inform the Minister’s decision shows the stock is already below the level we’ve agreed to internationally (1) and none of the options put to the Minister by his officials would see any recovery in the next five years. (2)
    The decision was gazetted on Friday and an announcement is expected today, ahead of the October 1 start of the fishing year.DSCC spokesperson Karli Thomas says the cut is only just enough to stop the decline of a fishery that’s already in a dire state and does nothing to protect the seamounts that orange roughy – and other deep sea creatures like corals and sponges – rely on.
    “The orange roughy fishery is one of the worst in Aotearoa, responsible for more than half the destruction of protected deep-sea corals. The government’s decision today leaves the fish itself – which can live for over 200 years – in serious trouble,” says Thomas.
    “The Minister has chosen to do the bare minimum, just enough to stop the decline, not enough to allow the stock to recover, and nothing at all to address the huge damage caused by bottom trawling on seamounts.”
    The stock assessment is based on survey data more than a decade old (2013) despite more recent stock surveys being carried out in 2018 and 2023. If the recent data is included, the stock could already be as low as 16% of its original population size.
    Greenpeace oceans campaigner Juan Parada says: “If the New Zealand fishing industry had stopped bottom trawling seamounts decades ago, the orange roughy fishery would not be in the diminished state it is today. Trawling the very seamounts where orange roughy go to breed and rebuild their numbers is a reckless way to run a fishery.”
    “New Zealand is the only country still bottom trawling in the South Pacific high seas, and that’s embarrassing. New Zealand should be moving away from this kind of archaic practice that does so much damage to ocean life,” says Parada.
    This fishery is under shared management with the South Pacific Regional Fisheries Management Organisation (SPRFMO), which has a management target of keeping this orange roughy population at or above 40% of its original level over the next five years. It’s already below that level, and Minister Jones is allowing catches that will prevent any recovery in that timeframe.
    “The Minister is out of touch with New Zealanders on this one, close to 100,000 people have signed a joint petition calling for trawling on seamounts to end” said Parada from Greenpeace Aotearoa.
    “It’s time the government listened and protected biodiversity hot spots like seamounts so the ocean, and orange roughy can recover.”
    SPRFMO starts its annual scientific committee meeting today in Lima, Peru. New Zealand’s orange roughy stock assessment is on the agenda, and the committee will advise on how much, if any, orange roughy can be taken from the part of this population in international waters. That will ultimately be decided at the SPRFMO annual meeting in February 2025. New Zealand is the only country still bottom trawling in the SPRFMO area.
    “Eyes at this international meeting are going to be on New Zealand, which is not only trying to walk back on science – discussed and agreed last year – that would have seen additional areas closed to bottom trawling to protect deep-sea life, it’s also going to have to explain a fishery in decline and a catch limit too high for it to recover,” concluded Thomas, from the DSCC.
    Notes(1) Under the South Pacific Regional Fisheries Management Organisation (SPRFMO) Conservation and Management Measure CMM 03a-2023, which specifies that this Tasman Sea stock will be managed at or above 40% of its original biomass for the next five years.
    (2) Table 1 of the MPI discussion document on ORH 7A set out the modelled population level under the four options under consideration. Only one option was predicted to halt the decline in the stock, none of the options were predicted to allow any stock recovery in the next five years.

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-OSI Australia: Ambassadors for International Day of People with Disability 2024

    Source: Ministers for Social Services

    Joint with:

    The Hon Amanda Rishworth MP
    Minister for Social Services 
    Member for Kingston

    The Hon Bill Shorten MP
    Minister for the National Disability Insurance Scheme
    Minister for Government Services
    Member for Maribyrnong

    Ambassadors for the 2024 International Day of People with Disability (IDPwD) have officially been confirmed.

    A total of eight Australians with a diverse range of backgrounds and experiences with disability have been chosen to champion IDPWD and disability inclusion in Australia.

    IDPwD is a United Nations observed day held annually on 3 December, aimed at raising understanding and acceptance of people with disability.

    More than one in five Australians – or 5.5 million people – identify as having a disability.

    Minister for Social Services Amanda Rishworth said this year’s Ambassadors were a genuine reflection of the diversity of people with disability in Australia.

    “Our Ambassadors provide different perspectives of what it means to be a person with disability, and this is why the Ambassador program is so important,” Minister Rishworth said.

    “This year’s Ambassadors particularly highlight how disability can intersect with other factors such as age, gender identity, sexual orientation and cultural background.

    “Intersectionality can compound discrimination experienced by people with disability, which is why there is no one-size fits all approach to disability matters.”

    Building on the example set by previous year’s Ambassadors, the 2024 IDPwD Ambassadors will work to elevate the voices and experiences of people with disability to play a part in shifting attitudes about disability.

    “We hope to dismantle stereotypes and challenge misconceptions by providing a platform for people with disability to stand up as influential voices for the disability community,” Minister Rishworth said.

    “We also know that for young people, particularly young people with disability, that honest, accurate representation is crucial in helping to establish their own unique sense of identity.”

    The Minister for the National Disability Insurance Scheme and Government Services, Bill Shorten, said this year’s ambassadors reflect the rich and diverse disability communities within Australia.

    “The passions and purpose which drive our incredible IDPwD representatives show the important contributions people with disability make to our country.

    “We must continue to support people with disability in positions of leadership and representation, to ensure all voices and lived experience are heard. We have worked hard to do this with reforming the National Disability Insurance Scheme (NDIS) so that it is sustainable and thriving for future generations.”

    The Albanese Labor Government is committed progressing change under Australia’s Disability Strategy 2021-2031, which is a commitment by all levels of government to drive inclusion of people with disability across all aspects of society.

    This is being demonstrated across multiple portfolios, from introducing the Disability Services and Inclusion Act at the beginning of this year and boosting funding for individual and systemic disability advocacy to uphold the rights of people with disability, to investing in our Paralympians, improving accessibility and inclusion at live music events, and creating new aviation specific disability standards.

    The IDPwD 2024 Ambassadors are:

    • Uncle Paul Constable-Calcott, an artist and disability advocate who uses his art to share his journey as a gay First Nations man living with disability in urban Australia. Uncle Paul works closely within the community, such as coordinating exhibitions and leading initiatives like the NunnaRon Art Group for artists with disability.
    • Marcus Dadd, a farmer from Mudgee, NSW, Australian National University Environmental Science and Agriculture graduate with honours (focusing on sustainable beef production) and disability advocate. He is currently working on a large cattle station in the Northern Territory. Marcus is passionate about inclusivity, sustainability and incorporating climate-positive practices into agriculture.
    • Khadija Gbla, a renowned award-winning intuitive speaker, human rights activist and compassionate thought leader. Born in Sierra Leone, Khadija came to Australia as a refugee at the age of 13. Khadija is determined to build a more inclusive, culturally aware, safe and accepting society no matter our differences through heart-centredness.
    • Hayden  Moon, a dancer, writer, and passionate advocate for LGBTQIA+, First Nations and disability issues. Hayden has written extensively on his experiences through various publications, including a chapter in “Nothing to Hide – Voices of Trans and Gender Diverse Australia.”
    • Sara Shams, a disability advocate, model, speaker, and healthcare professional. She is passionate about establishing equal opportunities, creating inclusive environments, and increasing the representation of people with disabilities, particularly from diverse cultural backgrounds. Sara advocates for an intersectional approach to inclusion, recognising the unique challenges faced by individuals at the intersection of race, disability, and other marginalised identities. As a modelling inclusion ambassador, she works with the fashion and media industries to amplify diversity and ensure authentic representation of all disabled communities.
    • Cooper Smith, is a DJ and music producer with cerebral palsy who communicates through his music. Cooper works to champion diversity and inclusion in the music industry and has performed at a wide range of live events, including the 2023 Ability Fest and 2024 Australian Open. Cooper visits primary schools and high schools to talk with students about disability and inclusion across all areas of life. He loves music, fitness and dreams of modelling more.
    • Sean Skeels and Marley Whatarau, best friends who have bonded through dancing and making cooking videos together. They have gained popularity on Instagram and TikTok through their “Get Down with Sean and Marley’ videos. Last year they received the TikTok Good Award, which recognises creators who strive to create positive change in their communities.

    Minister Rishworth congratulates this year’s Ambassadors and is looking forward to recognising the IDPWD with them on 3 December.

    For further information about IDPwD, and how to get involved please visit www.idpwd.com.au.

    MIL OSI News –

  • MIL-OSI China: World Insights: Challenges abound as Ishiba poised to lead Japan

    Source: China State Council Information Office 3

    TOKYO, Sept. 28 (Xinhua) — Elected as the new leader of Japan’s ruling party after a heated race, veteran politician Shigeru Ishiba is set to face daunting challenges ranging from restoring public trust to addressing economic stagnation as he prepares to assume the role of Japan’s prime minister.

    The 67-year-old former defense minister narrowly defeated female hopeful Economic Security Minister Sanae Takaichi in a run-off on Friday as a record nine candidates competed to lead the country’s ruling Liberal Democratic Party (LDP).

    Ishiba is expected to be officially elected Japan’s prime minister on Oct. 1, succeeding outgoing Fumio Kishida to lead a country facing a complex array of pressing issues.

    First and foremost on Ishiba’s task list is to restore public trust in the LDP, whose image has been heavily tarnished by the political funds scandal involving unreported income and misuse of political funds, which led to the indictment of several lawmakers.

    At a press conference following his win, Ishiba has vowed to give his “full effort” to rebuild trust and unity within the LDP, calling for a party that is humble, fair, and transparent, where rules are followed, and the public can hold leaders accountable.

    While the current term of lower house members is to expire in October 2025, Ishiba will also need to decide when to dissolve the lower house, as in Japan, a new prime minister often calls a snap election to dissolve the lower house at an early date to capitalize on a high approval rating to seek a public mandate.

    While indicating that a general election is necessary, Ishiba emphasized the importance of debating key issues with opposition parties before making any decision.

    On the economic front, Ishiba’s economic agenda promises continuity with those of Kishida but aims to make these policies more effective.

    In recent years, sluggish economic growth, wage stagnation, rising prices and the yen’s sharp depreciation have created woes for the Japanese public, and how Ishiba will differentiate his policies to tackle these economic challenges will be a key focus to watch.

    Stressing measures to accelerate real wage growth and boost consumer spending, Ishiba on Friday also highlighted Japan’s population decline as a major concern, reiterating his focus on regional revitalization.

    On foreign policy and national security, Ishiba, considered a defense policy expert, has put forward conservative proposals, including the establishment of an “Asian version of the NATO military alliance” and revisions to war-renouncing Article 9 of the pacifist Constitution. He has declined to say whether he would visit the controversial Yasukuni Shrine as prime minister.

    Regarding Japan-U.S. relations, Ishiba envisions a more equal and mutual Japan-U.S. security alliance, including having Japanese Self-Defense Force bases in the United States, a rare proposal within the conservative LDP.

    In a report on Friday, Japan’s Kyodo News said Ishiba may face a make-or-break moment as the country’s prime minister, citing Yu Uchiyama, a political science professor at the University of Tokyo, as saying, adding the longevity of the new administration hinges on how drastic the next leader’s reforms will be. Enditem

    MIL OSI China News –

  • MIL-OSI China: Macao’s leader candidate stresses ‘one country, two systems’ in political platform

    Source: China State Council Information Office 2

    Sam Hou Fai, the only candidate running for the sixth-term chief executive of the Macao Special Administrative Region (SAR), on Saturday emphasized the need to comprehensively implement the “one country, two systems” as a basic guideline for governing the SAR.
    Sam made the remarks during a 3-hour presentation and question-and-answer session for his political platform with the Chief Executive Election Committee and the press.
    In his presentation, Sam noted that Macao’s successful practices over the past 25 years since its return demonstrate the strong vitality and significant advantages of the “one country, two systems” principle. Facing a new start, he proposed the election philosophy “to forge ahead together by upholding fundamental principles and breaking new ground,” aiming to meet residents’ aspirations for a better life as the primary pursuit.
    He urged upholding national sovereignty, security and developmental interests as the highest principles and promoting moderately diversified economic development to better integrate into and serve the overall national development.
    Sam outlined key governance focuses for the next five years. He stated the need to enhance public governance capabilities and levels, center on residents, promote good governance, strengthen scientific decision-making, optimize the interaction between administration and legislation, safeguard judicial independence, improve civil service management systems, and foster ethnic harmony.
    He also called for accelerating moderately diversified economic development, which includes implementing a comprehensive plan for economic diversification, establishing a high-level economic governance system, creating a globally competitive business environment, promoting the healthy development of the gaming industry in accordance with the law, studying the establishment of government-industry funds, and accelerating the development of a diversified evaluation and statistical system.
    In terms of better integrating into and serving the national development, Sam proposed taking a leading role in promoting the integration of tax systems between Macao and the Chinese mainland, and supporting the construction of the Guangdong-Macao In-Depth Cooperation Zone in Hengqin, participating in the Guangdong-Hong Kong-Macao Greater Bay Area construction, deepening cooperation with Portuguese-speaking countries, and engaging in the Belt and Road construction to enhance entry and transit convenience for friendly countries and regions.
    He also highlighted the need to improve education, science and technology talent systems and emphasized the importance of improving people’s livelihoods.
    After presenting his political platform, Sam addressed questions from election committee members regarding public governance capabilities and governance levels, the healthy and orderly development of the gaming industry in accordance with the law, small and medium-sized enterprises, social service policies, and legal reforms. 

    MIL OSI China News –

  • MIL-OSI China: Chinese scientists unveil neural mechanisms of sequence sorting in macaque monkeys’ brain

    Source: China State Council Information Office 2

    After a person memorizes a series of numbers, the numbers can be repeated in the correct order or in reverse. So, how does the brain sort a series of items in a specific order within short-term memory, or working memory?
    To figure out the neural mechanisms of sequence sorting in working memory, Chinese scientists trained two macaque monkeys to perform a visuospatial delayed sequence-sorting task and conducted high-throughput electrophysiological recordings in the frontal cortex of the monkeys.
    The research was carried out by a team led by Wang Liping, a researcher at the Center for Excellence in Brain Science and Intelligence Technology under the Chinese Academy of Sciences (CAS), and their findings were published in the journal Science on Friday.
    Memory can be divided into short-term memory and long-term memory. Images seen and words heard in people’s daily lives are first stored as short-term memory and then processed through sorting, compression, forgetting, and other processes according to needs, said Wang.
    According to the research, spatial locations in each rank were encoded in separate rank subspaces, depending on rule cues. They were swapped between the subspaces by using two extra temporary subspaces in two parallel operation steps.
    Tian Zhenghe, a doctorate student at the center, said the process is not a simple direct exchange. Instead, each subspace recruits a temporary subspace to store information, and after its own information is cleared, it receives the information from the other via another temporary subspace.
    Sequence sorting, the mental manipulation of multiple items with different ordinal ranks in working memory, is essential for everyday activities such as planning, navigation and speech, said Peter Stern, a senior editor at Science who handles research papers related to neuroscience and brain research.
    “These findings are an important step in understanding the neural mechanisms of reasoning and planning,” Stern commented in the editor’s summary.
    Friday’s edition of the journal also published the findings of another team from the center, led by the CAS academician Pu Muming, which obtained single-cell spatial transcriptomic atlases of macaque, marmoset and mouse cerebella. 

    MIL OSI China News –

  • MIL-OSI China: Alibaba’s Taobao introduces Tencent’s WeChat Pay

    Source: China State Council Information Office

    Photo taken on July 3, 2020 shows the research center of the Chinese e-commerce giant Alibaba on the “AIsland” of Zhangjiang Science City in Pudong New Area, east China’s Shanghai. [Photo/Xinhua]

    Starting Friday, consumers shopping on Alibaba’s Taobao platform can now use Tencent’s WeChat Pay for transactions, according to an official statement from Taobao.

    The new payment option allows users to complete purchases with WeChat Pay, and subsequent updates will enable users to access transaction records and bills directly within the WeChat app, WeChat Pay said.

    Additionally, Taobao and Tmall are set to officially integrate JD Logistics, with the service expected to be available by mid-October. Once live, sellers on Taobao and Tmall will have the option of selecting JD Logistics for shipments.

    JD.com will also introduce services from Cainiao’s delivery network, including Cainiao Express and Cainiao Post, which offers parcel pickup points.

    JD.com is also preparing to add Alipay as a payment option, expected to launch ahead of the Nov. 11 shopping festival. Both companies have confirmed that their logistics and payment cooperation agreements are now in place. 

    The collaboration indicates that Chinese tech companies are moving toward more efficient resource integration and enhanced user experiences, said Liang Qiang, dean of Shantou University’s School of Business.

    The partnership is also aligned with China’s macro policies to advance digital infrastructure and facilitate the dual circulation of domestic and international markets while enhancing the competitiveness of Chinese e-commerce platforms in the global supply chain, he added.

    MIL OSI China News –

  • MIL-OSI China: NFRA creates special science, tech insurance system

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

    The National Financial Regulatory Administration is working to support the growth of the insurance industry by creating a special system for science and technology insurance. This was shared by Yin Jiang’ao, an NFRA official, during a media conference in Beijing on Friday.

    The goal is to improve insurance services for technology-based businesses throughout their entire lifecycle. The NFRA plans to introduce new products, refine policies and support pilot projects in areas like cybersecurity insurance and research and development loss insurance. Yin emphasized that the insurance products will cover all stages of innovation, including the first batch of equipment and intellectual property protection.

    The NFRA, along with other government departments, will also increase policy support for this type of insurance. They aim to build a system that offers broad coverage, while also providing rewards, subsidies and tax incentives for companies involved in technological innovation. This support is designed to reduce risk and encourage the development of new ideas and industries.

    Several regions, such as Ningbo in Zhejiang province, Lingang in Shanghai and Hudong in Hubei province, have already experimented with science and technology insurance. These areas are being used as examples for other regions to follow. According to Yin, this type of insurance is more specialized than regular insurance, with unique risks that require cooperation across industries to manage.

    Luo Yanjun, another official from the NFRA, added that the administration will continue guiding insurance companies to invest more in emerging industries and advanced manufacturing. By the end of August, the balance of insurance fund usage reached 31.8 trillion yuan ($4.5 trillion), with 28.8 trillion yuan supporting the real economy through investments in debt, equity and other areas.

    MIL OSI China News –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Hong Kong Space Museum launches free special exhibition “China’s Lunar and Mars Exploration” (with photos)

    Source: Hong Kong Government special administrative region

    Hong Kong Space Museum launches free special exhibition “China’s Lunar and Mars Exploration” (with photos)
    Hong Kong Space Museum launches free special exhibition “China’s Lunar and Mars Exploration” (with photos)
    ******************************************************************************************

         The Hong Kong Space Museum is staging a free special exhibition, “China’s Lunar and Mars Exploration”, from today (September 27) until March 24 next year in the foyer of the museum, showcasing the key achievements and future outlook of China’s lunar and Mars exploration missions.     China has been achieving its space exploration dreams step by step through the country’s own successful research and development of artificial satellites, rockets, manned spacecraft and a space station to carry out missions and scientific research in space, deepening human understanding of the Earth and the universe. In China’s Lunar Exploration Program, the Yutu lunar rover landed on the Moon while in China’s Mars Mission, the Zhurong Mars rover left its mark on the Martian surface.     Full-scale models of the Yutu lunar rover and the Zhurong Mars rover will be on display at the exhibition. Visitors will be able to study the structures and functions of the models and gain insights into the remarkable achievements in China’s aerospace development. Visitors can also review the missions of both rovers through interactive panels.     During the exhibition period, the Hong Kong Space Museum will organise a series of complementary programmes, including the “The Aerospace Science and Technology in China” Lecture Series, and astronomy film show. The museum will launch educational materials, including activity sheets for kindergarten, primary and secondary schools, and e-versions of the “Lunar and Mars Exploration Parent-Child Booklet”, with photos and simple descriptions, enabling the public to gain a deeper understanding of China’s achievements and developments in lunar and Mars exploration.     The exhibition is presented by the Leisure and Cultural Services Department (LCSD) and organised by the Hong Kong Space Museum. For details of the exhibition, programmes and educational materials, please visit hk.space.museum/en/web/spm/exhibitions/special-exhibitions/clme.html or call 2721 0226 for enquiries.     The exhibition is one of the activities in the Chinese Culture Promotion Series. The LCSD has long been promoting Chinese history and culture through organising an array of programmes and activities to enable the public to learn more about the broad and profound Chinese culture. For more information, please visit www.lcsd.gov.hk/en/ccpo/index.html.     

     
    Ends/Friday, September 27, 2024Issued at HKT 14:38

    NNNN

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-OSI Russia: A ceremonial meeting of the Supervisory and Academic Councils of NSU was held, dedicated to the 65th anniversary of the university

    MILES AXLE Translation. Region: Russian Federation –

    Source: Novosibirsk State University – Novosibirsk State University –

    Yesterday, a ceremonial meeting of the Supervisory and Academic Councils of NSU was held at NSU, dedicated to the 65th anniversary of the university. At the beginning of the meeting, the Rector of NSU, Academician of the Russian Academy of Sciences Mikhail Fedoruk, made a report “Honor the past, live in the present, create the future.” He told about the history of the university, specifically focused on the principles on which the university was founded, emphasized that NSU was a development of the MIPT model, but at the same time it became a university of a new type.

    From the very beginning, Novosibirsk State University was conceived as a university for training scientific personnel for the Siberian Branch of the Academy of Sciences. Scientists from the institutes of the Siberian Branch of the Russian Academy of Sciences taught here, and students began working in laboratories and participating in scientific research early on. An individual approach to learning, involvement in real projects and research from the first years – these principles underlie the educational model of the university at the present time. Now high-tech companies and industrial partners have been added to the research institutes, with which NSU is actively building interaction. The university is developing its own scientific and technological agenda, working in such advanced areas as artificial intelligence, space instrumentation, medical technologies, new functional materials, etc.

    Over 65 years, the university has grown by an order of magnitude in terms of the number of students: from 1,966 in 1962 to 8,700 in 2024. The number of teachers has also increased significantly – from 203 in 1962 to 2,800 in 2024. Over 65 years, NSU has graduated more than 56,000 students.

    NSU maintains its leading positions in national and international rankings. Now the university acts as a center of attraction and a driver of development not only for Akademgorodok, but also for the Novosibirsk Region. NSU participates in all key federal development programs, such as “Priority 2030”, “Creation of a Network of Modern Campuses”, Advanced Engineering Schools, etc. The Research Center in the Field of Artificial Intelligence, the Mathematical Center in Akademgorodok, and the NTI Center for New Functional Materials operate on the basis of NSU.

    Governor of the Novosibirsk Region Andrey Travnikov, congratulating NSU, noted:

    — I would like to thank all previous generations of students, graduates, teachers, and staff for the foundation and authority that was created over the previous years. The University in Akademgorodok is well-known, celebrated, and attracts people. I would like to thank the current composition of the entire university community for developing this potential, for the fact that in the changed 21st century the university found itself, developed a new line, a new format, a new strategy, without losing the main essence for which it was created 65 years ago. We can say that history has made a turn, and today the university is again approaching the Phystech model, responding to the demand not only of academic institutes, but also of technology corporations, innovative enterprises, and trains specialists, both researchers and engineers, and innovative entrepreneurs. I wish the university to confidently move along the chosen path, to grow and develop, preserving its traditions and foundation.

    During the ceremonial meeting, honored representatives of the university’s faculty were presented with certificates of honor, letters of gratitude and letters of thanks from the Governor of the Novosibirsk Region, the Novosibirsk City Hall, the Ministry of Science and Higher Education of the Russian Federation, the Ministry of Science and Innovation Policy of the Novosibirsk Region and the administration of the Sovetsky District of Novosibirsk.

    Awards of the Governor of Novosibirsk Region:

    Honorary Diploma of the Governor of Novosibirsk Region:

    Svetlana Dmitrievna Myzina, professor of the Department of Molecular Biology and Biotechnology Faculty of Natural Sciences of NSU.

    Tatyana Yuryevna Cherkashina, Head of the Department of General Sociology Faculty of Economics, NSU.

    Gratitude from the Governor of Novosibirsk Region:

    Lev Borisovich Vertheim, Associate Professor of the Department of Geometry and Topology Faculty of Mechanics and Mathematics of NSU.

    Letter of thanks from the Governor of Novosibirsk Region:

    Panteleeva Elena Valerievna, Associate Professor of the Department of Organic Chemistry, Faculty of Natural Sciences, NSU.

    Awards of the Novosibirsk City Hall:

    Certificate of honor from the Novosibirsk City Hall:

    Emelianov Vyacheslav Alekseevich, Associate Professor of the Department of General Chemistry, Faculty of Natural Sciences, NSU.

    Zhivtsova Natalia Petrovna, Director of Organizational Development and Human Resources Management at NSU.

    Kiseleva Oksana Vladimirovna, Associate Professor of the Department of Personality Psychology Faculty of Medicine and Psychology V. Zelman NSU.

    Korovnikova Irina Kimovna, Head of the Laboratory of Organic Chemistry, Faculty of Natural Sciences, NSU.

    Lyakina Yana Sergeevna, senior lecturer of the Department of Clinical Psychology of the Faculty of Medicine and Psychology V. Zelman NSU.

    Mitko Oleg Andreevich, senior researcher at the Laboratory of Humanitarian Research at NSU.

    Nikolaev Konstantin Yuryevich, professor of the Department of Internal Medicine, Faculty of Medicine and Psychology V. Zelman NSU.

    Fedin Vladimir Petrovich, Head of the Department of Inorganic Chemistry, Faculty of Natural Sciences, NSU.

    Tsyplakov Dmitry Anatolyevich, Associate Professor of the Department of Philosophy Institute of Philosophy and Law of NSU.

    Chugunova Alesya Leonidovna, specialist in educational and methodological work, 1st category, educational and methodological department Faculty of Geology and Geophysics of NSU.

    Awards of the Ministry of Science and Higher Education of the Russian Federation:

    Medal “For Impeccable Work and Distinction”:

    Kostenko Tatyana Vladimirovna, Head of the Administrative and Economic Department of the Geological and Geophysical Faculty of NSU.

    Honorary title “Honorary Worker of the Russian Federation Education”:

    Bugaeva Svetlana Gennadievna, Associate Professor of the Department of Higher Mathematics Physics Department of NSU.

    Gusachenko Anna Mikhailovna, Associate Professor of the Department of Cytology and Genetics of the Faculty of Natural Sciences of NSU.

    Serbo Valery Georgievich, professor of the Department of Theoretical Physics, Faculty of Physics, NSU.

    Mandrik Tatyana Ivanovna, leading engineer of the physiology laboratory of the Department of Physiology of the Faculty of Natural Sciences of NSU.

    Awards of the Ministry of Science and Innovation Policy of the Novosibirsk Region The Minister of Science and Innovation Policy of the Novosibirsk Region is invited.

    Honorary Diploma of the Ministry of Science and Innovation Policy of the Novosibirsk Region:

    Nesterenko Tatyana Viktorovna, Senior Lecturer, Department of Informatics Systems Faculty of Information Technology NSU.

    Timofeeva Maria Kirillovna, professor of the Department of Fundamental and Applied Linguistics Humanitarian Institute of NSU.

    Tsybulya Sergey Vasilievich, Head of the Department of Physical Methods for Solid State Research, Faculty of Physics, NSU.

    Gratitude from the Ministry of Science and Innovation Policy of the Novosibirsk Region:

    Igolnikov Alexander Evgenievich, Associate Professor of the Department of Historical Geology and Paleontology of the Geological and Geophysical Faculty of NSU.

    Awards of the administration of the Soviet district of Novosibirsk:

    Honorary Diploma of the Administration of the Soviet District of Novosibirsk:

    Demakov Pavel Andreevich, assistant of the Department of General Chemistry of the Faculty of Natural Sciences of NSU.

    Ilyin Maxim Anatolyevich, Head of the Department of General Chemistry, Faculty of Natural Sciences, NSU.

    Kostin Gennady Aleksandrovich, Head of the Department of Analytical Chemistry, Faculty of Natural Sciences, NSU.

    Krasilova Elena Aleksandrovna, Head of the Department of Youth Policy and Educational Work at NSU.

    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.

    Please note; This information is raw content directly from the information source. It is accurate to what the source is stating and does not reflect the position of MIL-OSI or its clients.

    http://vvv.nsu.ru/n/media/nevs/education/a ceremonial-meeting of the-supervisory-and-scientific-councils-of-NSU-dedicated-to-the-65th anniversary/

    EDITOR’S NOTE: This article is a translation. Apologies should the grammar and or sentence structure not be perfect.

    MIL OSI Russia News –