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Category: Universities

  • MIL-OSI Russia: MIEM launches the engine: open testing of the second version of Claw Engine has started

    Translation. Region: Russian Federal

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

    The team of the workshop “Game Engineering and Interactive Systems” MIEM launched testing among developers of the second version of the Claw Engine game engine. “Vyshka.Glavnoe” tells about the product, in the creation of which MIEM student project teams are participating.

    The Claw Engine is a video game development tool based on generative neural network technologies for rapid prototyping of game ideas and the use of complex gameplay patterns of mechanics. The complex project has been implemented for about two years by student teams of the Game Engineering and Interactive Systems workshop at MIEM. In the fall of 2024, the first version of the engine was launched, which was focused on the basic architecture and simplified visual interface. The environment allowed working with three-dimensional images and programming your own game scenarios.

    “The goal of Claw Engine is to replace the outdated imported game engines, automate work on routine tasks, optimize the game creation process and simplify the development of not only games, but also other interactive applications. The engine can be used by both novice programmers and experienced game creators: for beginners, there is an intuitive interface and a low-code approach, and professionals can use the C programming language

    In June 2025, open testing of the second version of the game engine began. More than 600 developers took part. The new release demonstrates how an experimental idea has turned into a technologically mature product.

    “The second version of Claw Engine is not just an update. It is already a full-fledged modular platform, a transition to an engineering product with an architecture designed for development, expansion and real-life use,” says Vladimir Nikitin, head of the Claw Engine project and deputy head of the Game Engineering and Interactive Systems workshop.

    The new release includes a completely redesigned visual scene editor, support for custom C scripts

    “We are creating an engine in which you can not only assemble scenes, but also implement your own technological solutions – in graphics, behavior, physics. This is an opportunity for students and young developers to build engineering thinking through real work,” notes Ilya Semichasnov.

    Open testing of the second version of the engine is an important step not only in the development of the product, but also in its expansion beyond the university. Developers from different regions of Russia have gained access to the assembly and are helping to debug its operation in different conditions.

    The team’s immediate plans include adding next-generation graphics and physics modules, expanding AI capabilities, and implementing a plugin system. Development is iterative, taking into account community feedback. Thus, in December 2024, Claw Engine was presented at the RED EXPO exhibition, the main event of the gaming industry in Russia. Visitors could test the pre-alpha version of the engine and evaluate its key features: working with 3D scenes, a basic editor, and support for user scripts. In May 2025, the project was also presented at Positive Hack Days, one of the largest tech forums in the country. The workshop team demonstrated how Claw Engine is used in engineering and educational tasks, from modeling the behavior of objects to creating interactive environments. Participation in these events was an important step in the development of the product and expanding professional interest in it.

    Claw Engine has already been used as the basis for hackathons, training courses, diploma projects and R

    Work on Claw Engine unites several independent student projects implemented within the framework of the innovative project model of MIEM. Today, the teams have formed technical processes, built a testing system, and are actively developing internal documentation and a user support system.

    “Claw Engine is one of those flagship projects at MIEM, where a modern project model is being honed. Today, technological projects require a clear organization of working interaction between numerous project teams solving their problem within the framework of creating a single large product. This is how large IT giants work today. In this sense, the Game Engineering and Interactive Systems workshop functions as a connecting hub, the main operator of the entire product creation process,” says Ilya Semichasnov.

    In 2025, an online master’s degree program will be opened on the basis of the workshop.Digital Engineering for Computer Games” is a program aimed at those who want to not just develop games, but design technological solutions for them. The academic director of the program will be the head of the workshop Ilya Semichasnov.

    The program covers the architecture of game systems, work with AI, mathematical modeling, VR and other areas at the intersection of engineering and game development. The educational process includes project work, cooperation with the industry and the opportunity to become part of teams working on real tools.

    Applications for the Master’s program “Digital Engineering for Computer Games” are open until September 15, 2025.

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

    MIL OSI Russia News –

  • MIL-Evening Report: Shadow treasurer Ted O’Brien accepts invitation to government’s economic roundtable

    Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Michelle Grattan, Professorial Fellow, University of Canberra

    The federal opposition has accepted an invitation from Treasurer Jim Chalmers for shadow treasurer Ted O’Brien to attend the August economic roundtable.

    The acceptance contrasts with the position taken by former opposition leader Peter Dutton last term. He refused to attend the government’s jobs and skills summit although the Nationals leader David Littleproud did so.

    The opposition’s decision is in line with the indication from its leader Sussan Ley that she wants to be more constructive than the Liberals were last term.

    The roundtable, focused on productivity, has broadened into a meeting where tax reform is expected to figures heavily. Chalmers is looking for consensus for reforms but the extent to which that can be achieved remains to be seen.

    Chalmers said on Tuesday he had provided the invitation to O’Brien “in good faith. I think it would be a good thing to have the shadow treasurer engaged at the economic reform roundtable.

    “I think it will give us a better chance of making the kind of progress that we desperately need to see on reform and in our economy more broadly.”

    Chalmers is still finalising the invitations, which will go to business, the union movement and civil society representatives.

    O’Brien said he would engage at the roundtable “in a business-like fashion”.

    He said the Coalition would be “constructive where we can and critical where we must”. It would hold the government to account and he would not be at the summit “to rubber stamp a talkfest”.

    “It’s worth the treasurer knowing from the outset that I believe rhetoric is no substitute for reform. I want to see honesty in how the government defines the economic problems our nation faces, and I will be looking to tangible outcomes as real measures of success.”

    On Wednesday Ley will appear at the National Press Club, speaking about her personal story, the Liberals’ federal election defeat, and some markers on policy areas where the Liberals will focus.

    She will also outline some priority policy areas that she’ll champion during this parliamentary term.

    In her address Ley will highlight “aspiration”, saying this is the “thread that connects every single part of Australian society”.

    “Aspiration is the foundation of the Australian promise: that if you work hard, play by the rules, do your best for your kids and contribute to your community, you will be able to build a better life for yourself and your family.”

    In her speech, part of which was released ahead of delivery, Ley acknowledges the opposition didn’t just lose the last election – “we got smashed. We respect the election outcome with humility. We accept it with contrition. And we must learn from it with conviction.”

    Michelle Grattan does not work for, consult, own shares in or receive funding from any company or organisation that would benefit from this article, and has disclosed no relevant affiliations beyond their academic appointment.

    – ref. Shadow treasurer Ted O’Brien accepts invitation to government’s economic roundtable – https://theconversation.com/shadow-treasurer-ted-obrien-accepts-invitation-to-governments-economic-roundtable-259691

    MIL OSI Analysis – EveningReport.nz –

  • MIL-OSI: Wrap Technologies Announces Appointment of Gerald “Jerry” Ratigan as Chief Financial Officer

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    MIAMI, June 24, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Wrap Technologies, Inc. (NASDAQ: WRAP) (“Wrap” or, the “Company”), a global pioneer in innovative public safety technologies and services, today announced the appointment of Gerald “Jerry” Ratigan, seasoned finance executive, as the Company’s new Chief Financial Officer.

    Mr. Ratigan brings over 20 years of experience leading financial strategy across public companies, capital markets, investment banking and performance-focused advisory roles. Mr. Ratigan’s background includes extensive work in both international and domestic publicly traded environments, where Mr. Ratigan has consistently driven financial modernization and organizational agility.

    Mr. Ratigan has demonstrated exceptional ability in scaling finance operations, transforming reporting ecosystems and guiding companies through pivotal milestones—including M&A transactions and enterprise-wide digital transformations.

    Mr. Ratigan’s diverse career spans Big Four public accounting, Fortune 500 audit leadership, and C-suite roles in high-growth sectors such as gaming, fintech, travel and entertainment. Most recently, Mr. Ratigan served as the Senior Vice President of Accounting and Controls—and later as Acting Chief Financial Officer—at The Gearbox Entertainment Company. In this role, Mr. Ratigan led financial operations through a critical phase that culminated in a successful acquisition by Take-Two Interactive.

    Mr. Ratigan’s leadership encompassed building the finance function from the ground up, post-merger integration, ERP implementation, ESG reporting and consolidating multi-entity operations across geographies and currencies.

    Prior to Gearbox, Mr. Ratigan served as Senior Director of Accounting and Financial Reporting at Entertainment Benefits Group (a Creative Artists Agency company), where Mr. Ratigan managed global accounting and audit operations. Mr. Ratigan also held Chief Accounting Officer and Chief Audit Executive roles at MoneyOnMobile, Inc. (MOMT), where Mr. Ratigan led public filings, investor communications and SEC compliance—supporting uplisting efforts and complex carve-outs related to divestitures.

    Earlier in Mr. Ratigan’s career, Mr. Ratigan served as Director of SEC Financial Reporting at Prestige Cruise Holdings (acquired by Norwegian Cruise Line), overseeing public filings, XBRL tagging and IPO readiness. At Cooper Industries (later acquired by Eaton), Mr. Ratigan led internal audit efforts, implementing global audit strategies and streamlining post-acquisition integration.

    Mr. Ratigan began his career at KPMG and Grant Thornton, quickly distinguishing with international assignments and national training roles. Mr. Ratigan’s global experience spans work in the U.S., Mexico, China, the U.K., India, Germany, Australia, Bahrain, Thailand and Sweden.

    An advocate for ethics, compliance, and professional development, Mr. Ratigan currently serves on the Global Board of Directors for the Institute of Management Accountants (IMA), contributes to COSO’s new corporate governance framework, and sits on the Global Advisory Board of The CFO Alliance, offering insight on capital markets and economic trends.

    Mr. Ratigan holds a Bachelor of Business Administration in Accounting and Finance from the University of Miami and an MBA in Data Analytics from Louisiana State University–Shreveport. Mr. Ratigan is a Certified Public Accountant (CPA) in Texas, a Certified Management Accountant (CMA), and holds credentials in Strategy and Competitive Analysis (CSCA) and Production and Inventory Management (CPIM).

    “Across every role, Jerry has brought a distinctive blend of technical excellence, operational leadership and strategic vision. His work has consistently aligned financial operations with long-term value creation, enabled agility in complex environments, and driven measurable outcomes that build stockholder confidence and enterprise growth. We believe Jerry’s operational experience in capital markets and public accounting make him the right choice to align Wrap’s financial operations with its long-term strategy,” said Scot Cohen, Chief Executive Officer of Wrap.

    “This appointment emphasizes Wrap’s readiness for accelerating adoption and growing market interest. We believe Jerry’s leadership will help drive product scale, ensure accountability, and position Wrap to maximize the commercial opportunities of its expanding portfolio,” said Jared Novick, President and Chief Operating Officer of Wrap.

    “I am both honored and inspired to join Wrap at this defining moment,” said Mr. Ratigan. “The Company is delivering powerful solutions at the intersection of technology, public safety and compassion. I look forward to contributing to our mission while advancing a disciplined financial strategy that strengthens our foundation and creates sustainable stockholder value.”

    Louis Springer Elevated to Vice President of Finance to Support Financial Operational Scale

    Louis Springer’s promotion from Corporate Development to Vice President of Finance reflects both Wrap’s deep bench of internal talent and its disciplined focus on scaling operations with continuity and precision. Over the past 18 months, Mr. Springer played a central role in enacting the operational elements of Wrap’s cost-cutting initiatives and supporting broader organizational change. We believe his background in financial services, investment banking, and public company capital markets further strengthens Wrap’s ability to align day-to-day financial operations with long-term stockholder value creation.

    “Louis Springer has proven himself over the years with Wrap,” said Chief Executive Officer of Wrap, Mr. Cohen. “He’s earned his spot as Vice President of Finance and will continue to anchor our fiscal strategy under Mr. Ratigan’s leadership—bringing both stability and forward momentum that we believe benefits all stakeholders.”

    About Wrap Technologies, Inc.

    Wrap Technologies, Inc. (Nasdaq: WRAP) a global leader in innovative public safety technologies and non-lethal tools, delivering cutting-edge technology with exceptional people to address the complex, modern day challenges facing public safety organizations.

    Wrap’s BolaWrap® 150 solution leads the world in pre-escalation and beyond, providing law enforcement with a safer choice for nearly every phase of a critical incident.

    This innovative, patented device deploys a multi-sensory, cognitive disruption that leverages sight, sound and sensation to expand the pre-escalation period and give officers the advantage and critical time to manage non-compliant subjects before resorting to higher-force options. The BolaWrap® 150 is a not pain-based- compliance. It does not shoot, strike, shock, or incapacitate—instead, it helps officers strategically operate pre-escalation on the force continuum, reducing the risk of injury to both officers and subjects. Used by over 1,000 agencies across the U.S. and in 60 countries, BolaWrap® is backed by training certified by the International Association of Directors of Law Enforcement Standards and Training (IADLEST), reinforcing Wrap’s commitment to public safety through cutting-edge technology and expert training.

    Wrap Reality® VR is a fully immersive training simulator to enhance decision-making under pressure.

    As a comprehensive public safety training platform, it provides first responders with realistic, interactive scenarios that reflect the evolving challenges of modern law enforcement. By offering a growing library of real-world situations, Wrap Reality® equips officers with the skills and confidence to navigate high stakes encounters effectively, leading to safer outcomes for both responders and the communities they serve.

    WrapVision is an all-new body-worn camera and evidence management system built for efficiency.

    Designed for efficiency, security, and transparency to meet the rigorous demands of modern law enforcement, WrapVision captures, stores and helps manage digital evidence, with operational security, regulatory compliance and superior video picture quality and field of view.

    The WrapVision camera, powered by IONODES boasts cloud integration and adheres to Trade Agreements Act (TAA) compliance requirements and GSA schedule contracts requirements. Crucially, unlike many competitor devices manufactured overseas in foreign, non-compliant, and possibly hostile regions, WrapVision is built in North America, promoting unparalleled data integrity and reducing critical concerns over unauthorized access or foreign surveillance risks.

    Trademark Information

    Trademark Information Wrap, the Wrap logo, BolaWrap®, Wrap Reality® and Wrap Training Academy are trademarks of Wrap Technologies, Inc., some of which are registered in the U.S. and abroad. All other trade names used herein are either trademarks or registered trademarks of the respective holders.

    Cautionary Note on Forward-Looking Statements – Safe Harbor Statement

    This release contains “forward-looking statements” within the meaning of the “safe harbor” provisions of the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995. Words such as “expect,” “anticipate,” “should”, “believe”, “target”, “project”, “goals”, “estimate”, “potential”, “predict”, “may”, “will”, “could”, “intend”, and variations of these terms or the negative of these terms and similar expressions are intended to identify these forward-looking statements. Moreover, forward-looking statements are subject to a number of risks and uncertainties, many of which involve factors or circumstances that are beyond the Company’s control. The Company’s actual results could differ materially from those stated or implied in forward-looking statements due to a number of factors, including but not limited to: the Company’s expectations related to the appointment of the new Chief Financial Officer, the expected benefits of the acquisition of W1 Global, LLC, the Company’s ability to maintain compliance with the Nasdaq Capital Market’s listing standards; the Company’s ability to successfully implement training programs for the use of its products; the Company’s ability to manufacture and produce products for its customers; the Company’s ability to develop sales for its products; the market acceptance of existing and future products; the availability of funding to continue to finance operations; the complexity, expense and time associated with sales to law enforcement and government entities; the lengthy evaluation and sales cycle for the Company’s product solutions; product defects; litigation risks from alleged product-related injuries; risks of government regulations; the business impact of health crises or outbreaks of disease, such as epidemics or pandemics; the impact resulting from geopolitical conflicts and any resulting sanctions; the ability to obtain export licenses for counties outside of the United States; the ability to obtain patents and defend intellectual property against competitors; the impact of competitive products and solutions; and the Company’s ability to maintain and enhance its brand, as well as other risk factors mentioned in the Company’s most recent annual report on Form 10-K, subsequent quarterly reports on Form 10-Q, and other Securities and Exchange Commission filings. These forward-looking statements are made as of the date of this release and were based on current expectations, estimates, forecasts, and projections as well as the beliefs and assumptions of management. Except as required by law, the Company undertakes no duty or obligation to update any forward-looking statements contained in this release as a result of new information, future events or changes in its expectations.

    Investor Relations Contact:
    (800) 583-2652
     ir@wrap.com

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI Global: Semen allergies may be suprisingly common – here’s what you need to know

    Source: The Conversation – UK – By Michael Carroll, Reader / Associate Professor in Reproductive Science, Manchester Metropolitan University

    Yuriy Maksymiv/Shutterstock

    Imagine itching, burning, swelling, or even struggling to breathe just moments after sex. For a small but growing number of women, that’s not an awkward anecdote – it’s a medical condition. It’s called seminal plasma hypersensitivity (SPH) – an allergy to semen.

    This rare but underdiagnosed allergy isn’t triggered by sperm cells, but by proteins in the seminal plasma — the fluid that carries sperm. First documented in 1967, when a woman was hospitalised after a “violent allergic reaction” to sex, SPH is now recognised as a type 1 hypersensitivity, the same category as hay fever, peanut allergy and cat dander.

    Symptoms range from mild to severe. Some women experience local reactions: burning, itching, redness and swelling of the vulva or vagina. Others develop full-body symptoms: hives, wheezing, dizziness, runny nose and even anaphylaxis, a potentially life-threatening immune response.

    Get your news from actual experts, straight to your inbox. Sign up to our daily newsletter to receive all The Conversation UK’s latest coverage of news and research, from politics and business to the arts and sciences.

    Until 1997, SPH was thought to affect fewer than 100 women globally. But a study led by allergist Jonathan Bernstein found that among women reporting postcoital symptoms, nearly 12% could be classified as having probable SPH.

    I conducted a small, unpublished survey in 2013 and found a similar 12% rate. The true figure may be higher still. Many cases go unreported, misdiagnosed, or dismissed as STIs, yeast infections, or general “sensitivity”. One revealing clue: symptoms disappear when condoms are used.

    A 2024 study reinforced this finding, suggesting that SPH is both more common and more commonly misdiagnosed than previously believed.

    The problem isn’t the sperm

    The main allergen appears to be prostate-specific antigen (PSA): a protein found in all seminal plasma, not just that of a particular partner. In other words, women can develop a reaction to any man’s semen, not just their regular partner’s.

    There’s also evidence of cross-reactivity. For example, Can f 5, a protein found in dog dander, is structurally similar to human PSA. So women allergic to dogs may find themselves reacting to semen too. In one unusual case, a woman with a Brazil nut allergy broke out in hives after sex, probably due to trace nut proteins in her partner’s semen.

    Diagnosis begins with a detailed sexual and medical history, often followed by skin prick testing with the partner’s semen or blood tests for PSA-specific antibodies (IgE).

    In my own research involving symptomatic women, we demonstrated that testing with washed spermatozoa, free from seminal plasma, can help confirm that the allergic trigger is not the sperm cells themselves, but proteins in the seminal fluid.

    And it’s not just women. It’s possible some men may be allergic to their own semen.

    This condition, known as post-orgasmic illness syndrome (POIS), causes flu-like symptoms, such as fatigue, brain fog and muscle aches, immediately after ejaculation. It’s believed to be an autoimmune or allergic reaction. Diagnosis is tricky, but skin testing with a man’s own semen can yield a positive reaction.

    What about fertility?

    Seminal plasma hypersensitivity doesn’t cause infertility directly, but it can complicate conception. Avoiding the allergen – usually the most effective treatment for allergies – isn’t feasible for couples trying to conceive.

    Treatments include prophylactic antihistamines (antihistamine medications taken in advance of anticipated exposure to an allergen, or before allergy symptoms are expected to appear to prevent or reduce the severity of allergic reactions), anti-inflammatories and desensitisation using diluted seminal plasma. In more severe cases, couples may choose IVF with washed sperm, bypassing the allergic trigger altogether.

    It’s important to note: SPH is not a form of infertility. Many women with SPH have conceived successfully – some naturally, others with medical support.

    So why don’t more people know about this?

    Because sex-related symptoms often go unspoken. Embarrassment, stigma and a lack of awareness among doctors mean that many women suffer in silence. In Bernstein’s 1997 study, almost half of the women who had symptoms after sex had never been checked for SPH, and many had spent years being misdiagnosed and getting the wrong treatment.

    If sex routinely leaves you itchy, sore or unwell – and condoms help – you might be allergic to semen.

    It’s time to bring this hidden condition out of the shadows and into the consultation room.

    Michael Carroll does not work for, consult, own shares in or receive funding from any company or organisation that would benefit from this article, and has disclosed no relevant affiliations beyond their academic appointment.

    – ref. Semen allergies may be suprisingly common – here’s what you need to know – https://theconversation.com/semen-allergies-may-be-suprisingly-common-heres-what-you-need-to-know-259308

    MIL OSI – Global Reports –

  • MIL-OSI Global: What Glastonbury is like for deaf people – one of the festival’s DeafZone coordinators explains

    Source: The Conversation – UK – By Dai O’Brien, Associate Professor, BSL and Deaf Studies, York St John University

    The sense of community is something Deaf people share with how hearing people experience festivals. Drazen Zigic/Shutterstock

    For the past few years at Glastonbury, sign language interpreters have gone viral on social media for enthusiastically signing songs beside the stage. But those clips tell us nothing about what the overall experience of the festival is like for deaf people. How do deaf people experience and enjoy live music, and how do they create their own alternative space which is not focused around sound?

    I am deaf and use British Sign Language (BSL) as my preferred language. As well as my academic job teaching BSL and Deaf studies at York St John University, I am also one of the coordinators of DeafZone. It’s a small charity which organises, among other things, the BSL interpreters of events like Glastonbury.

    But a key reason for setting up DeafZone was to instigate a space for cultural exchange. In the DeafZone, the more progressive, open-minded people who are attracted to Glastonbury’s tradition as a space of radical thought and alternative lifestyles may be open to learning more about deaf people, our languages and cultures.

    An absolutely key element of deaf people’s experience of festivals is the creation of alternative deaf spaces. Deaf people do not experience festivals in the same way as hearing people in more ways that the simple absence of sound.

    We create our own spaces which are visual and tactile. The interpretation of song lyrics into BSL is only a small, albeit very visible, part of this alternative festival space.

    Looking for something good? Cut through the noise with a carefully curated selection of the latest releases, live events and exhibitions, straight to your inbox every fortnight, on Fridays. Sign up here.

    People often look at me strangely when I tell them that one of my best every festival experiences was in a portaloo. Understandable, I suppose, when you consider what usually happens in portaloos in festivals.

    However, this particular experience was focused on the way in which the plastic walls of the portaloo acted as a gigantic amplifier of the sound vibrations in the air. This made the inside of the loo an intensely tactile experience of music, with different frequencies vibrating through different parts of my body.

    A less smelly way of accessing this tactile experience of music is through plastic drinks holders or balloons. Balloons can be a risky option, however, as security sometimes confiscate them under the impression that they are full of nitrous oxide. This is frustrating, but can result in conversations which invite them into the lived deaf space we are inhabiting and give them an alternative way of appreciating music which does not rely on sound.

    Of course, deaf people often also simply position themselves directly in front of the sound stacks. But the key is that the experience of sound is again a physical, tactile one, subverting the idea that music must be enjoyed as an auditory experience.

    The values of the space created have some overlaps with those of the wider festival. Deaf spaces centre the use of signed languages. Their creators – including myself – firmly believe that deaf children should have access to signed languages from birth to stave off language deprivation.

    We also resist the medicalisation of deafness. These are beliefs which find common ground in the radical political roots of Glastonbury, in which ideas of equality and acceptance are core principles.

    This means that at its heart, the festival is a very welcoming space for deaf people, regardless of whether there is a shared language or not. There’s a shared respect for humanity that transcends language modality.

    This comes back to the fact that DeafZone is not just about organising interpreters for access to song lyrics. We give non-signing people a chance to engage with us in our space, to appreciate our values, and to learn about the mistreatment that deaf communities and cultures have suffered.

    Regardless of whether you’re deaf or hearing, the uniqueness of the Glastonbury festival provides opportunities to learn from each other and enjoy each other’s languages. If that includes room for dancing together to your favourite band, so much the better.

    Dai O’Brien is affiliated with DeafZone.

    – ref. What Glastonbury is like for deaf people – one of the festival’s DeafZone coordinators explains – https://theconversation.com/what-glastonbury-is-like-for-deaf-people-one-of-the-festivals-deafzone-coordinators-explains-258532

    MIL OSI – Global Reports –

  • MIL-OSI Global: What Glastonbury is like for deaf people – one of the festival’s DeafZone coordinators explains

    Source: The Conversation – UK – By Dai O’Brien, Associate Professor, BSL and Deaf Studies, York St John University

    The sense of community is something Deaf people share with how hearing people experience festivals. Drazen Zigic/Shutterstock

    For the past few years at Glastonbury, sign language interpreters have gone viral on social media for enthusiastically signing songs beside the stage. But those clips tell us nothing about what the overall experience of the festival is like for deaf people. How do deaf people experience and enjoy live music, and how do they create their own alternative space which is not focused around sound?

    I am deaf and use British Sign Language (BSL) as my preferred language. As well as my academic job teaching BSL and Deaf studies at York St John University, I am also one of the coordinators of DeafZone. It’s a small charity which organises, among other things, the BSL interpreters of events like Glastonbury.

    But a key reason for setting up DeafZone was to instigate a space for cultural exchange. In the DeafZone, the more progressive, open-minded people who are attracted to Glastonbury’s tradition as a space of radical thought and alternative lifestyles may be open to learning more about deaf people, our languages and cultures.

    An absolutely key element of deaf people’s experience of festivals is the creation of alternative deaf spaces. Deaf people do not experience festivals in the same way as hearing people in more ways that the simple absence of sound.

    We create our own spaces which are visual and tactile. The interpretation of song lyrics into BSL is only a small, albeit very visible, part of this alternative festival space.

    Looking for something good? Cut through the noise with a carefully curated selection of the latest releases, live events and exhibitions, straight to your inbox every fortnight, on Fridays. Sign up here.

    People often look at me strangely when I tell them that one of my best every festival experiences was in a portaloo. Understandable, I suppose, when you consider what usually happens in portaloos in festivals.

    However, this particular experience was focused on the way in which the plastic walls of the portaloo acted as a gigantic amplifier of the sound vibrations in the air. This made the inside of the loo an intensely tactile experience of music, with different frequencies vibrating through different parts of my body.

    A less smelly way of accessing this tactile experience of music is through plastic drinks holders or balloons. Balloons can be a risky option, however, as security sometimes confiscate them under the impression that they are full of nitrous oxide. This is frustrating, but can result in conversations which invite them into the lived deaf space we are inhabiting and give them an alternative way of appreciating music which does not rely on sound.

    Of course, deaf people often also simply position themselves directly in front of the sound stacks. But the key is that the experience of sound is again a physical, tactile one, subverting the idea that music must be enjoyed as an auditory experience.

    The values of the space created have some overlaps with those of the wider festival. Deaf spaces centre the use of signed languages. Their creators – including myself – firmly believe that deaf children should have access to signed languages from birth to stave off language deprivation.

    We also resist the medicalisation of deafness. These are beliefs which find common ground in the radical political roots of Glastonbury, in which ideas of equality and acceptance are core principles.

    This means that at its heart, the festival is a very welcoming space for deaf people, regardless of whether there is a shared language or not. There’s a shared respect for humanity that transcends language modality.

    This comes back to the fact that DeafZone is not just about organising interpreters for access to song lyrics. We give non-signing people a chance to engage with us in our space, to appreciate our values, and to learn about the mistreatment that deaf communities and cultures have suffered.

    Regardless of whether you’re deaf or hearing, the uniqueness of the Glastonbury festival provides opportunities to learn from each other and enjoy each other’s languages. If that includes room for dancing together to your favourite band, so much the better.

    Dai O’Brien is affiliated with DeafZone.

    – ref. What Glastonbury is like for deaf people – one of the festival’s DeafZone coordinators explains – https://theconversation.com/what-glastonbury-is-like-for-deaf-people-one-of-the-festivals-deafzone-coordinators-explains-258532

    MIL OSI – Global Reports –

  • MIL-OSI Global: How aid cuts may be affecting humanitarian workers

    Source: The Conversation – UK – By Lucia Berdondini, Associate Professor in Psychology, University of East London

    Humanitarian work takes a profound emotional toll on workers. It places them at the frontline of global crises, at times witnessing the devastating impacts of war, famine, natural disasters, mass displacement and systemic injustice. Humanitarian workers have to cope with emotional exhaustion and burnout, with stress levels in some humanitarian settings comparable to those in combat zones.

    The emotional burden deepens when workers feel unable to live up to the very values that initially drew them to the sector. It can be emotionally painful for people to watch aid fail, or to carry out policies they believe are wrong.

    Psychologists refer to this distress as moral injury — a form of psychological, emotional and spiritual distress that arises when people perpetrate, witness or fail to prevent actions that violate their deeply held moral beliefs. Moral injury arises from guilt, shame, betrayal and anger. This is often directed at others and sometimes at oneself for participating in a harmful system.

    As governments cut foreign aid, this disillusionment is likely to worsen. In our 2023 study published in Displaced Voices, we interviewed aid workers across international organisations and charities working in Calais and Dunkirk.

    Get your news from actual experts, straight to your inbox. Sign up to our daily newsletter to receive all The Conversation UK’s latest coverage of news and research, from politics and business to the arts and sciences.

    Participants shared their experiences of working in environments where they feel they are no longer making a positive impact — or where they must conform to work within systems they perceive as failing those who need assistance. Recent aid cuts are likely to exacerbate these sentiments.

    In the UK, Keir Starmer announced aid would fall from 0.5% to 0.3% of gross national income by 2027 — the lowest level since 1999 — to fund increased defence spending.

    In the US, the Trump administration suspended over 90% of USAid contracts worth around US$60 billion (£44 billion) — halting support for HIV treatment, reproductive health and crisis response. These cuts represent significant structural blows to humanitarian infrastructure. From mass layoffs in Kenya to the sudden closure of programmes worldwide, the consequences have been immediate and demoralising.

    Funding cuts don’t just disrupt operations, they erode the mental and moral resilience of humanitarian workers. Without support for their wellbeing, the sector’s ethical and effective functioning is at risk. Yet research on humanitarian mental health, especially moral injury, remains limited.

    Aid worker distress

    Based on our experience researching the sector, we expect that recent aid cuts in the UK and US will deepen moral injuries among humanitarian workers.

    In an ongoing pilot study, we are examining how aid cuts impact the psychological wellbeing of humanitarian workers. We have analysed 15 publicly available sources (ten blogs and five podcasts) created by aid professionals between 2023 and 2025. While the findings are not yet published, our observation reveals clear patterns of distress linked to moral injury.

    We have also observed some evidence of moral injury stemming from the aid cuts. Some workers expressed moral fatigue – slow exhaustion caused by ethical strain, and a sense of futility and loss of meaning. One practitioner wrote in a blog: “I used to believe we were helping — now I feel like I’m sweeping water uphill.”

    Several blog posts and podcast episodes suggested a sense of complicity; the pain of being part of organisational silence or failure. Workers spoke of “being the face of a broken system” or “used to justify programmes we knew were failing.” As one put it: “Being a human is messy; serving humanity is messier.”

    Still others described the ethical vacuum left by aid cuts, where workers are expected to care without mandate or resources.

    Protesters in the US gather in opposition to the USAid cuts.
    Philip Yabut/Shutterstock

    Our findings so far reveal a troubling overlap between ethical strain and systemic failure in the humanitarian sector. As aid budgets shrink and resources dwindle, workers are overwhelmed, emotionally disoriented and psychologically vulnerable — often forced to choose between compromise and burnout.

    Some may leave the sector; others will stay, but with hardened hearts. We’ve seen this first-hand through our work on the UEL Mental Wellbeing Portal, where professionals share stories of programme closures, job loss, grief and a deep sense of powerlessness — echoing our pilot-study findings.

    A sustainable (and compassionate) aid system must urgently recognise and address the psychological toll of working in a system that workers feel no longer aligns with their humanitarian values. This crisis of moral injury is not inevitable. The sector needs investment not just in operations, but in the people who carry them out. That starts with understanding and acknowledging the emotional cost of aid cuts.

    Lucia Berdondini: I received funding from DifD in 2010, the British Council in 2011 and the Academy of Medical Sciences in 2020. I am an Associate Professor at the University of East London, where I lead the MSc in Humanitarian Intervention (Distance Learning) and the UEL Mental Wellbeing Portal for Humanitarian Workers. I also collaborate with NGOs and academic institutions in the humanitarian field. These affiliations are relevant to the subject of this article.

    Nomsa Sandra Wayland does not work for, consult, own shares in or receive funding from any company or organisation that would benefit from this article, and has disclosed no relevant affiliations beyond their academic appointment.

    – ref. How aid cuts may be affecting humanitarian workers – https://theconversation.com/how-aid-cuts-may-be-affecting-humanitarian-workers-257482

    MIL OSI – Global Reports –

  • MIL-OSI Russia: Expanding Opportunities: At SPIEF 2025, GUU signed a number of cooperation agreements

    Translation. Region: Russian Federal

    Source: State University of Management – Official website of the State –

    Rector of the State University of Management Vladimir Stroyev signed several cooperation agreements at the St. Petersburg International Economic Forum.

    One of the new partners of the State University of Management has become ANO “Eurasia”, with which it is planned to conduct joint programs, internships, forums and projects where students will be able to grow and take part in various activities.

    “We are pleased with the new cooperation, it opens up new opportunities for both our organizations. It seems to me that we have a happy, working and friendly future for the benefit of our Eurasia,” said Vladimir Stroyev, Rector of the State University of Management.

    State Duma deputy, Chairperson of the Council of the ANO “Eurasia” Alena Arshinova also noted the importance and benefits of future joint projects:

    “It’s good when such platforms unite us, because the efforts we make become visible to an even larger circle of partners. This is where the integration takes place, because our “Eurasia” is precisely about integration and about promoting the development of international cooperation, first and foremost. So thank you very much for agreeing to sign an agreement with us.”

    Also at SPIEF-2025, the rector signed agreements with such organizations as Rostelecom, Tsifroinvest Management Company, the Fatherland Defenders Foundation, Rostransnadzor, and Transmashholding.

    In addition, Vladimir Stroyev spoke at the session “Investments in the Future: How Business Inspires and Supports Youth Initiatives” and presented awards to the winners of the “My Country – My Russia” competition.

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

    MIL OSI Russia News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Take Extreme Caution as Heat and Severe Weather Persist

    Source: US State of New York

    overnor Kathy Hochul today urged New Yorkers to take safety precautions during periods of extreme heat throughout Primary Day. New Yorkers can expect dangerously hot and humid conditions to continue today with feels-like temperatures between 90-106 degrees statewide. In addition, there is the potential for severe thunderstorms throughout most of the state this afternoon and evening that could contain damaging winds. Feels-like temperatures on Wednesday are expected to be 82-100 degrees with the potential for severe thunderstorms with damaging winds in the southern part of the state possible in the afternoon and evening. In response to the severe weather that impacted Central New York over the weekend, Governor Hochul declared a State of Emergency in 32 counties and state agencies are responding to assist New Yorkers with storm damage and impacts from extreme heat.

    “With dangerously hot weather expected throughout most of the state today, I am urging all New Yorkers to stay cool and safe — especially those waiting in line to cast ballots,” Governor Hochul said. “State emergency response personnel are standing by and prepared to help New Yorkers through this extreme weather, and as this heat wave peaks, I am reminding everyone to have a safe place to stay cool, limit time outdoors, and drink plenty of water.”

    This weekend, Governor Hochul signed legislation repealing an outdated section of New York’s election law — the new legislation now supports voters by allowing refreshments to be provided as they wait in line to exercise their civic duty.

    Governor Hochul today directed the Office of Parks, Recreation and Historic Preservation to offer extended hours at State swimming and cooling facilities and other State parks during the current heat wave as a way to help New Yorkers beat the heat.

    New Yorkers can also stay cool by utilizing nearby cooling centers. Find a cooling center near you on the State Department of Health website. Residents of New York City can find cooling center information here. Certain State Park swimming facilities will also extend their hours on Tuesday and Wednesday.

    For Those Impacted by Storms on Sunday
    In response to severe weather that impacted the State over the weekend, Governor Hochul declared a State of Emergency in 32 counties. At the Governor’s direction, the New York State Division of Homeland Security and Emergency Services has activated the State Emergency Operations Center to Enhanced Monitoring Mode to track the storms and damage. They are working closely with local emergency managers and governments to support requests and provide assistance as requested. State agencies stand ready to respond with equipment and personnel. Light towers have been provided to Oneida County and other materials stored in the State’s nine stockpiles including generators and pumps are also available to support local needs.

    Homeowners and businesses in impacted areas are encouraged to fill out an online form allowing residents to self-report damages to their homes and/or businesses. The purpose of this form is solely to collect information that may help state and local officials identify supplemental damages to develop and augment potential requests for available federal assistance programs. This is not an application for relief programs.

    The Department of Financial Services also has a number of resources for homeowners dealing with their insurance companies following a disaster:

    • File Claims Promptly
    • Making Necessary Repairs
    • Keep Records of Dealings with Insurance Representatives
    • Inventory Your Belongings
    • Flood Damage
    • Keep Your Receipts If You Relocate During Repairs
    • Filing Complaints
    • Information on Homeowners’ Insurance

    More resources are available at the DFS Disaster and Flood Recovery Resource Center.

    State Agency Response

    Division of Homeland Security and Emergency Services
    The Office of Emergency Management is in regular contact with county emergency managers to ensure cooling centers are available, and to offer support and advise on extreme heat risks. In addition, the agency is facilitating preparations and coordinating guidance and communications with State agency partners. Information on how to manage extreme heat can be found online. To receive real time weather and emergency alerts, New Yorkers are encouraged to text the name of their county or borough to 333111.

    New York State Office of Parks, Recreation and Historic Preservation
    The following State Park swimming facilities will be open for extended hours:

    Long Island

    • Jones Beach State Park: Field 6 & Central Mall; extended swimming until 8:00 p.m. Tuesday & Wednesday
    • Robert Moses State Park: Field 2 & 5; extended swimming until 8:00 p.m. Tuesday & Wednesday
    • Sunken Meadow State Park: Main Beach; extended swimming until 7:00 p.m. Tuesday & Wednesday
    • Hither Hills State Park: extended swimming until 7:00 p.m. Tuesday & Wednesday

    Hudson Valley

    • Bear Mountain State Park: extended swimming until 6:30 p.m. Tuesday & Wednesday
    • Lake Tiorati State Park: extended swimming until 6:45 p.m. Tuesday & Wednesday
    • Rockland Lake State Park: extended swimming until 6:30 p.m. Tuesday & Wednesday
    • Lake Minnewaska: extended swimming until 7:45 p.m. Tuesday & Wednesday
    • Lake Minnewaska-Awosting: extended swimming until 6:30 p.m. Tuesday & Wednesday

    New York City

    • Gantry Plaza State Park: spray pad hours extended to 7:00 p.m. Tuesday & Wednesday
    • Four Freedoms State Park: spray pad hours extended to 6:45 p.m. Tuesday & Wednesday
    • Denny Farrell Riverbank State Park: extended swimming until 8:00 p.m. Tuesday & Wednesday

    Capital District

    • Grafton Lakes State Park: extended swimming until 7:00 p.m. Tuesday
    • Thompson’s Lake Campground/Thacher State Park: extended swimming until 7:00 p.m. Tuesday
    • Moreau Lake State Park: extended swimming until 7:00 p.m. Tuesday
    • Saratoga Spa State Park: extended swimming until 7:00 p.m. Tuesday
    • Lake Taghkanic State Park: extended swimming until 7:00 p.m. Tuesday & Wednesday
    • Taconic-Copake State Park: extended swimming until 7:00 p.m. Tuesday & Wednesday
    • Taconic Kiddie Pool: extended swimming until 8:00 p.m. Tuesday & Wednesday

    Western New York

    • Allegany State Park – Red House Lake: extended swimming until 8:00 p.m. Tuesday & Wednesday
    • Allegany State Park – Quaker Lake: extended swimming until 8:00 p.m. Tuesday & Wednesday
    • Beaver Island State Park: extended swimming until 8:00 p.m. Tuesday & Wednesday
    • Evangola State Park: extended swimming until 8:00 p.m. Tuesday & Wednesday
    • Fort Niagara State Park: extended swimming until 8:00 p.m. Tuesday & Wednesday
    • Woodlawn Beach State Park: extended swimming until 8:00 p.m. Tuesday & Wednesday

    Central New York

    • Green Lakes State Park: extended swimming until 8:00 p.m. Tuesday & Wednesday
    • Delta Lake State Park: extended swimming until 8:00 p.m. Tuesday & Wednesday
    • Verona Beach State Park: extended swimming until 8:00 p.m. Tuesday & Wednesday
    • Chenango Valley State Park: extended swimming until 8:00 p.m. Tuesday & Wednesday

    Finger Lakes

    • Letchworth State Park: extended swimming until 7:45 p.m. Tuesday & Wednesday
    • Fair Haven Beach State Park: extended swimming until 8:00 p.m. Tuesday & Wednesday
    • Robert Treman State Park: extended swimming until 8:00 p.m. Tuesday & Wednesday
    • Seneca Lake-Spray Ground: spray ground hours extended until 7:30 p.m. Tuesday & Wednesday
    • Taughannock Falls State Park: extended swimming until 8:00 p.m. Tuesday & Wednesday
    • Sampson State Park: extended swimming until 8:00 p.m. Tuesday & Wednesday
    • Filmore Glen State Park: extended swimming until 8:00 p.m. Tuesday & Wednesday

    North Country

    • Southwick Beach State Park: extended swimming until 7:00 p.m. Tuesday & Wednesday
    • Westcott Beach State Park: extended swimming until 7:00 p.m. Tuesday & Wednesday

    Swimming availability may be affected by hazardous weather, changing water conditions or staffing. Please check State Parks’ website parks.ny.gov or call the park you wish to visit directly to confirm availability.

    Department of Financial Services
    After contacting insurance companies, residents can get assistance with insurance information regarding policy coverage for losses and suggestions on how to document their losses and safeguard their property by calling the Department’s Disaster Hotline at 800-339-1759.

    New Yorkers who have been impacted by flooding are encouraged to visit the DFS Disaster and Flood Recovery Resource Center for helpful information.

    New York State Department of Public Service
    DPS is tracking electric system conditions and overseeing utility response to any situations that may arise as a result of this week’s extreme heat and potential thunderstorm activity. There are currently 9,997 electric outages reported statewide. DPS remains in direct contact with utility operations Leadership to ensure they are continuously tracking system conditions and responding to cases of trouble and outages as quickly as possible to restore the system and customers. New York’s utilities have approximately 5,500 workers available, as necessary, to engage in damage assessment, response, repair and restoration efforts across New York State for this heat event. Agency staff will track utilities’ work throughout the event and ensure utilities shift appropriate staffing to regions that experience the greatest impact.

    During heat waves, increased usage of electric devices such as air conditioners place a considerable demand on the state’s electricity system and instances of low voltage or isolated power outages can result. The record for such usage was set on July 19, 2013, when it reached 33,956 MWs (one megawatt of electricity is enough to power up to 1,000 average-sized homes).

    National Grid will continue with repair and restoration efforts today for the remaining electric customers impacted by Sunday morning’s severe thunderstorms. Some portions of National Grid’s territory experienced straight-line winds exceeding 90 mph and an EF-1 tornado with winds up to 105 mph, with more than 101,000 electric customers affected statewide.

    Department of Health
    The State Health Department is taking a number of steps to promote the safety of all New Yorkers in periods of extreme heat, especially those most at risk. The Department has distributed guidance to all hospitals, diagnostic and treatment centers, adult care facilities, home care and hospice providers and nursing homes and has issued additional guidance to hosts of any scheduled public events with more than 5,000 people in attendance. The Department is working with DSHES and local health departments and emergency managers to ensure access to cooling centers and safe spaces during this extreme heat.

    Learn more about heat related illness, including signs and symptoms and when to take action on the State Health Department’s extreme heat advice webpage.

    The New York State Department of Health’s interactive Heat Risk and Illness Dashboard allows the public and county health care officials to determine the forecasted level of heat-related health risks in their area and raise awareness about the dangers of heat exposure.

    NYS Department of Agriculture and Markets
    The agency has compiled important information, including preventative measures, to help mitigate the effects of extreme heat on farm workers and farm animals. The Department will also be working closely with partners at The New York Extension Disaster Education Network (NY EDEN) at Cornell University to monitor any potential impacts of the extreme heat expected this week. NY EDEN is also a resource for farmers and farm workers during a heat wave, and additional information can be found at https://eden.cce.cornell.edu/natural-hazards/heat-wave/.

    Department of Environmental Conservation
    DEC reminds outdoor adventurers that unpredictable weather — including rapidly changing temperatures and storms in the Adirondacks, Catskills, and other backcountry areas — can create unexpectedly hazardous conditions. Visitors should be prepared with proper clothing and equipment for rain, mud and warmer temperatures to ensure a safe outdoor experience.

    Hikers in the Adirondacks are encouraged to check the Adirondack Backcountry Information webpages for updates on trail conditions, seasonal road closures and general recreation information.

    Hiking in the heat is always risky. New Yorkers and visitors should review the following tips to prevent heat exhaustion and heat stroke:

    • Slow your pace.
    • Drink water and rest often.
    • Seek shade and avoid long periods in direct sunlight.
    • Bring at least 2 liters of water for any hike.
    • Bring a water filter, especially for longer hikes.
    • Bring salty snacks to keep your electrolytes in check.
    • Wear sunscreen.
    • Leave your pets at home — the heat is harder on them, especially walking on hot rocks.
    • Consider staying home yourself and rescheduling for another day when weather conditions improve.

    Even if the weather is forecast to be high heat all day, there’s always a chance of hypothermia due to a sudden storm or drop in temperatures. This can increase dramatically if you’re sweating and not wearing sweat-wicking clothing (made of fabrics like wool or polyester). Many cases of hypothermia are in the summer when people least expect it.

    Whether you are hiking, mountain biking or paddling, Hike Smart NY can help you prepare with a list of 10 essentials, guidance on what to wear, and tips for planning your trip with safety and sustainability in mind. In an emergency, call 9-1-1. To request Forest Ranger assistance, call 1-833-NYS-RANGERS.

    Air Quality
    DEC is continuing to monitor air quality across the State and will issue air quality health advisories as necessary. New Yorkers are encouraged be “Air Quality Aware” and check airnow.gov for accurate information on air quality forecasts and conditions. To view the latest DEC air quality forecasts, visit the DEC website.

    Extreme Heat
    DEC recently released preliminary Urban Heat Island maps to help communities better understand, plan for, and adapt to extreme heat exposures on the neighborhood level. Links to the maps, as well as additional information and data, can be found on DEC’s Extreme Heat Action Plan webpage  and posted at nys-heat.daveyinstitute.com/hottest-hour. The project advances a key action in the Extreme Heat Action Plan and advances a 2022 law signed by Governor Hochul directing DEC to study the impacts of disproportionate concentrations of extreme heat in disadvantaged communities across the State.

    Harmful Algal Blooms
    Following periods of heavy rainfall, nutrient runoff can cause harmful algal blooms (HABs) to form in freshwater lakes, ponds, rivers and streams. New Yorkers should avoid swimming, boating, recreating in, or drinking water with a bloom.

    When it comes to HABs, DEC encourages New Yorkers to “KNOW IT, AVOID IT, REPORT IT”:

    • KNOW IT – HABs vary in appearance from scattered green dots in the water to long, linear green streaks, pea soup or spilled green paint, to blue-green or white coloration.  
    • AVOID IT – People, pets, and livestock should avoid contact with water that is discolored or has algal scums on the surface.  
    • REPORT IT – If members of the public suspect a HAB, report it through the NYHABs online reporting form available on DEC’s website. Symptoms or health concerns related to HABs should be reported to New York State Department of Health at [email protected]. 

    The New York State Department of Labor has released comprehensive guidance to help employers better protect outdoor workers during extreme heat and advises workers and employers to engage in extreme heat best practices such as:

    • Ensure access to clean drinking water at no cost to workers, available at all times and as close to the worksite as possible.
    • Provide shade and paid rest when the heat index reaches 80 degrees Fahrenheit or above, and more frequent rest breaks once the heat index exceeds 90 degrees.
    • Wear proper PPE so long as they do not interfere with safety equipment, including sunscreen, cooling vests, wide-brim hats, and lightweight, loose-fitting clothing.

    More information on best practices for working in extreme heat can be found here.

    Thruway Authority maintenance crews will be conducting standard daily operations during times where temperatures are lowest and will enhance patrols monitoring the highway. Motorists are reminded and encouraged to take breaks at one of 26 service areas or three Welcome Centers located on the Thruway system.

    Department of Transportation maintenance crews will conduct most outdoor work during morning hours and follow established hydration and rest protocols to help mitigate the risks associated with high temperatures.

    Office of Children and Family Services
    The agency is taking a number of actions to ensure activities at residential centers, detention programs and congregate care programs are conducted in a safe manner during the heat. This includes checking cooling equipment, ensuring proper amounts of water are available and consumed, rescheduling activities and meetings, and identifying staff and clients who may be affected by heat. They are also providing guidance to child care programs and groups associated with the Commission for the Blind statewide.

    New York State Office of Mental Health
    In advance of the hot conditions, New Yorkers should be aware of the impact high heat may have on individuals receiving antipsychotic medications, who are at particular risk of heat stroke and neuroleptic malignant syndrome during periods of extreme heat, which is more likely in poorly ventilated areas. Children and the elderly are at increased risk.

    In addition to monitoring individuals at risk, such conditions are best prevented by a heightened attention to hydration, particularly those at high risk, including individuals taking antipsychotic medications, the elderly, children and those with poor fluid intake.

    Also, individuals at high-risk should remain in cooler areas; be monitored for temperature elevations; avoid direct exposure to sunlight and wear protective clothing and sunscreen. Anticholinergic medications may interfere with sweating and should be minimized.

    Office of Temporary and Disability Assistance
    The agency is reminding local departments of social services and emergency homeless shelter operators of the need to provide fans to help maintain reasonable air circulation during times of extreme heat and humidity. Also, shelter providers should provide a cooling room in the facility for residents, if feasible.

    Metropolitan Transportation Authority
    To reduce potential impacts to service and reduce response times to heat-related events, NYC Transit will implement heat patrols to proactively increase track inspections and stage extra personnel in key risk areas including power substations, machine rooms, generators, cables, and connections. To ensure functioning air conditioning, subway railcars and buses will be inspected before being placed in service. Paratransit service providers are reminded vehicles must have functioning air-conditioning. Buses and operators will be on standby for any support needed with subways or emergency service. NYC Transit also completes a continuous welded rail watch when rail temperatures exceed 100 degrees to be vigilant of rail kinks or other issues.

    Long Island Rail Road and Metro-North Railroad crews will be staged at key locations to be able to respond quickly to weather-related issues. The railroads will monitor rail temperatures, deploy heat patrols to inspect the rails for any kinks, and stage additional Power Department personnel to protect power substations and overhead aerial lines. Train crews have been instructed to report any rail conditions that need attention.

    The Port Authority Office of Emergency Management coordinates with facility teams to monitor weather conditions and operational impacts and maintains communication with regional partners to support response readiness during periods of elevated temperatures.

    For a complete listing of weather watches, warnings, advisories and latest forecasts, visit the National Weather Service website.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Industrial Strategy to provide over £150m to reinforce UK as services superpower

    Source: United Kingdom – Government Statements

    Press release

    Industrial Strategy to provide over £150m to reinforce UK as services superpower

    The Industrial Strategy will invest over £150 million in five transformative AI and technology programmes to help UK Professional and Business Services.

    • UK’s modern Industrial Strategy will drive forward 2035 ambition for UK professional and business services to be most dynamic and innovative in world
    • Plan includes five new centres of excellence across country to help services firms grow and adopt new technology
    • New international marketing campaign will also be deployed for UK services through GREAT

    The UK’s modern Industrial Strategy will invest over £150 million in five transformative AI and technology programmes to help UK Professional and Business Services (PBS) sectors such as legal, management consulting and accountancy soar.

    The latest step in the Government’s Plan for Change, the funding comes as part of a wider package of commitments in the Industrial Strategy sector plan for the PBS sector, published this week.

    With professional business services worth £300 billion a year and supporting one in every seven jobs, the sector has been put at the heart of the UK’s modern Industrial Strategy, recognising its critical role in unlocking growth and creating jobs across all UK regions and sectors – and the UK’s place as the second largest exporter of services in the world, behind only the US.

    Minister for Investment Poppy Gustafsson CBE will visit the University of Edinburgh on Tuesday where she will meet with the Law Society of Scotland to hear more about AI adoption and how Scotland is a hub for world class PBS firms. 

    Jonathan Reynolds, Secretary of State for Business and Trade said:

    The Professional and Business Services sector is the jewel in the crown of the UK economy, worth over £300bn a year and making up one in every seven jobs.

    Our Industrial Strategy and Plan for Change will help the sector soar further through the adoption of new technologies such as AI and increased promotion overseas as we strive to make the industry the most dynamic and innovative in the world by.

    The plan sets out the sector’s ambition for the UK to be the most trusted adviser to global industry, with the most dynamic and productive PBS sector by 2035, whilst remaining the world’s second largest exporter of professional business services after the US.

    The five programmes will be focused on building on the already high levels of AI adoption in the sector, with major spends on launching a new PBS adapted Made Smarter digital adoption programme and enhancing Innovate UK’s Next Generation Professional Services programme which advises firms to adopt new technologies and support research.

    From Birmingham to Glasgow, this will be accompanied by new PBS centres of excellence in five city regions to offer firms advice, with a new national AI skills hub to offer wider support, alongside a new research programme to tackle barriers to innovation – starting with real estate.

    By placing innovation at the heart of the plan, it aims to increase business investment in the PBS sector and ensure the UK will not just be an AI taker, but an AI maker in delivering modern Professional and Business Services.  

    Other measures to boost the UK’s PBS sector in the plan include:

    • A new marketing campaign for PBS through GREAT + and more opportunities for PBS firms to join government trade missions.
    • Expanded support for regulators to negotiate mutual recognition of professional qualifications agreements, especially with the EU, US, and other key markets.
    • A Trade Digitalisation Task Force to advise PBS firms and clients on the productivity and growth benefits of digital trade documents and processes and to break down barriers to adoption. 
    • UK Export Finance to provide guarantees to PBS firms securing early-stage overseas project contracts for the first time, strengthening the UK’s position as the world’s second largest PBS exporter.  
    • A new PBS AI Champion by summer 2025 to identify growth opportunities, address adoption barriers, and deliver sector-wide AI Adoption.  

    Iain Wright, Chief Policy & Communications Officer, ICAEW, PBSC Business Co-Chair, said: 

    The launch of the Industrial Strategy marks a pivotal moment in the collaboration between business and government to enable the UK economy to grow and we were pleased to work with the government to develop the ambitious sector plan to make the UK the most trusted economy for PBS by 2035.

    With targeted support, the plan sets the stage for a more innovative, competitive and growing sector which underscores our position at the heart of the economy. I strongly welcome this renewed partnership, and we see today’s launch as the start of a long-term collaboration with government to turn this vision into reality.

    Kirsty Newman, Deloitte UK Market Chair, said:

    The PBS sector plan represents an important moment for our sector and sets out a bold and exciting vision for the future. It recognises our impact as a major employer and economic contributor in our own right, but also how we drive growth, innovation and resilience across the economy.

    The sector plan will help to ensure PBS is underpinned by the right skills and regulatory framework, is at the forefront of technological innovation and grows its presence internationally and in all regions and nations of the UK.

    The commitments from government and long-term engagement with the sector can solidify the UK’s reputation as a global centre of excellence for PBS.

    Tamzen Isacsson, Chief Executive of the Management Consultancies Association (MCA), said:   

    Consulting is one of the UK’s great economic success stories, with firms helping clients to grow, innovate, and tackle complex challenges. The Industrial Strategy and PBS sector plan is a blueprint to go further – accelerating tech adoption, opening procurement to SMEs, upskilling our workforce, and cementing the UK’s global leadership in services.

    As a sector with over 300 offices across the UK, we look forward to supporting the regional agenda of the Government as well as partnering with it to promote the skills and expertise of UK consulting globally.

    Richard Atkinson, President of the Law Society of England and Wales, said:

    The government’s new Industrial Strategy can be a game-changer for the UK economy and the legal sector. Putting legal services at the heart of the country’s economic engine will fuel sustained growth.

    Our legal industry is the second largest in the world, the biggest in Europe and brings all other sectors together. By opening global markets for UK lawyers, investing in our courts’ infrastructure, supporting technology in legal services and upholding the rule of law, we ensure the UK remains a global jurisdiction of choice. The Law Society looks forward to working with the government to deliver its long-term vision for growth in our sector.

    Notes to editors

    • The link to the PBS sector plan is here.
    • After the US, the UK is firmly established as the second largest exporter of PBS services in the world.
    • PBS is positioned to grow by £322bn in GVA by 2035 (113%), based on current trends.  
    • The PBS sector accounts for almost one job in every seven in the UK economy, with the sector paying 21.4% above the national mean annual wage.
    • Employment in PBS has grown by half a million since 2015, and we could see another half a million new jobs in PBS by 2035. 

    Updates to this page

    Published 24 June 2025

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI NGOs: Threatened whale species found in areas targeted by The Metals Company for deep sea mining, scientists warn

    Source: Greenpeace Statement –

    Exeter, UK – A scientific survey of two areas targeted for deep sea mining in the Pacific Ocean by The Metals Company has confirmed the presence of whales and dolphins, including sperm whales which are listed as vulnerable on the IUCN Red List of Threatened Species. The news comes as world governments are meeting in a few weeks at the International Seabed Authority (ISA), where the call for a moratorium on deep sea mining keeps growing.[1]

    The survey, published today in the scientific journal Frontiers in Marine Science, was conducted by researchers from the University of Exeter and Greenpeace Research Laboratories from Greenpeace International’s ship, Arctic Sunrise. Researchers studied two exploration blocks held by The Metals Company in the Pacific’s Clarion-Clipperton Zone, known as NORI-d and TOML-e.[2][3]

    Dr Kirsten Young, Lead Study Author, University of Exeter said: “We already knew that the Clarion-Clipperton Zone is home to at least 20 species of cetaceans, but we’ve now demonstrated their presence in two areas specifically earmarked for deep sea mining by The Metals Company.”

    Following President Trump’s approval of a deep sea mining Executive Order in April 2025, The Metals Company applied to the US government to give TMC unilateral permission to commercially mine the international seabed in the Clarion-Clipperton Zone. According to reports, this application covers the NORI-d area.[4] This move bypasses and undermines the International Seabed Authority, the UN regulator for deep sea mining, and has been met with strong criticism from governments around the world. Scientists have previously warned of “long lasting, irreversible” impacts of deep sea mining on the region.[5]

    Cetaceans are known to be impacted by noise pollution caused by humans, and could be impacted by the significant noise created by deep sea mining operations. These operations would also generate sediment plumes, which could further impact cetacean populations by disrupting deep ocean food systems.

    Dr Kirsten Young continued: “While more research is needed to build a complete picture of the impact of the noise and sediment plumes on cetaceans, it’s clear that deep sea mining operations will negatively impact ocean ecosystems in areas far out to sea where monitoring is particularly challenging.”

    The survey provides a 13-day snapshot of cetacean activity in these two deep sea mining exploration areas. Using hydrophones, the research team confirmed 74 acoustic detections of cetaceans. This included a sperm whale, Risso’s dolphins and common dolphins.

    Louisa Casson, Greenpeace International senior campaigner, said: “The confirmed presence of cetaceans, including threatened sperm whales, in areas that The Metals Company is targeting for deep sea mining is yet another clear warning that this dangerous industry must never be allowed to begin commercial operations. The only sensible course of action for governments at next month’s International Seabed Authority meeting is to prioritise agreeing on a global moratorium.”

    Calls for a moratorium on deep sea mining grew at the recent UN Ocean Conference, with four new countries joining the group supporting a moratorium, bringing the total to 37.[6] The UN Secretary General also issued a strong call to stop this dangerous industry. Momentum against deep sea mining will now be carried forward at the July ISA meetings. 

    ENDS 

    Photos and video are available in the Greenpeace Media Library. 

    Notes:

    [1 IUCN Red List of Threatened Species 

    [2] Threatened cetaceans in a potential deep seabed mining region, Clarion Clipperton Zone, Eastern Pacific 

    [3] This study in the Pacific is mirrored by another recent piece of research in the Arctic by Greenpeace Nordic and Greenpeace Germany. Researchers found cetaceans, including deep-diving and noise-sensitive sperm whales and northern bottlenose whales, in an area earmarked for future mining. If the Norwegian government proceeds with deep sea mining in the area, noise and pollution risk severe consequences. Greenpeace Nordic researchers are in the Arctic right now further documenting the presence of cetaceans in the area to expose the risks of deep sea mining and to champion the protection of the Arctic’s vulnerable marine life.

    [4] The Metals Company applies to mine seabed after Trump executive order 

    [5] Whale warning as clock ticks towards deep sea mining 

    [6] https://deep-sea-conservation.org/solutions/no-deep-sea-mining/

    Contact:

    Sol Gosetti, Media Coordinator for the Stop Deep Sea Mining campaign, Greenpeace International: [email protected], +34 64686 3330

    Greenpeace International Press Desk: [email protected], +31 (0) 20 718 2470 (available 24 hours)

    MIL OSI NGO –

  • MIL-OSI USA: NSF Graduate Research Fellow’s work on light contributes to nanodot breakthrough 

    Source: US Government research organizations

    Americans spend a lot of time on their screens. The images on those screens are made of pixels — tiny dots that represent a single point of color. Scientists from Penn State, including NSF Graduate Research Fellow Nicholas Trainer, recently discovered a process that can make the images on phones, monitors and TVs even brighter.

    The Penn State research shows that light emitted from 2D materials can be changed by embedding a second, very small (80,000 times smaller than the width of a human hair) 2D material inside them, called a nanodot. By controlling the size of the nanodot through a process called quantum confinement, scientists can change the color and frequency of the emitted light.

    Credit: Nasim Alem, Penn State University

    On the left is an illustration of the experimental setup from this study. Molybdenum diselenide nanodots, represented by red triangles, are embedded in tungsten diselenide and encapsulated by hexagonal boron nitride (hBN) on top and bottom. A focused electron beam, shown in green, in a scanning transmission electron microscope (STEM) is aimed at the structure. The emitted light is collected to generate an intensity map. On the upper right is a dark-field STEM image of the molybdenum diselenide nanodot embedded inside tungsten diselenide. The contour of the nanodot is marked by dotted green lines. On the lower right is an artificially colored light emission intensity map of the same region, with the localized emission from the nanodot clearly visible

    “Think about how OLED [technology used in our digital screens] displays work,” says Saiphaneendra Bachu, lead author of the study. “Each pixel has its own tiny light source behind it, so you can control the exact color or brightness of each one. This lets the screen show true black and accurate colors like red, green and blue. If you improve this process, you make the picture much sharper and more vibrant.”

    Improved quantum computing has implications for fields ranging from cybersecurity (it could make one’s online presence, transactions and the wider web more secure) to developing new materials and drugs to improving the efficiency and accuracy of artificial intelligence/machine learning algorithms.

    The nanodot discovery will have uses beyond sharper and more efficient displays on screens. The “quantum confinement” that the scientists achieved with the nanodots creates a type of fundamental particle called an “exciton” that transports energy but doesn’t carry a charge. Excitons influence how semiconductors behave, and being able to precisely control the excitons (which this new development allows) can lead to faster and more secure quantum computing.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: UConn Hartford Receives $500,000 from The Hartford to Support Student Housing Scholarships

    Source: US State of Connecticut

    The UConn Foundation has received a $500,000 gift from The Hartford to provide housing scholarships for students in a new residence hall on Pratt Street in Hartford, set to open in fall 2026.

    The gift underscores The Hartford’s commitment to making education accessible and affordable for local students. The scholarships will help ensure that students with financial need can access the new apartment-style housing, which will accommodate 200 students and mark a new chapter in UConn Hartford’s growth.

    “I am deeply grateful to The Hartford for their generous gift to the UConn Hartford residence hall,” says Mark Overmyer-Velázquez, UConn Hartford’s campus dean and chief administrative officer. “This investment in our students is also an investment in Hartford’s future. Together we are helping to create a more vibrant, dynamic downtown where students can live, learn, and contribute to the city’s growth.”

    The University is currently transforming a former law office at 64 Pratt Street into a vibrant residential space, creating a community-focused living experience for qualified students in the heart of Hartford.

    “We are proud to continue our partnership with UConn Hartford – an institution that shares our commitment to the city we call home,” says The Hartford’s Chief Marketing and Communications Officer Claire Burns. “By supporting housing scholarships for students, we are removing financial barriers and providing students with greater access to opportunities. This gift not only supports students in their academic journey but also contributes to a more active and connected community.”

    This is The Hartford’s second major gift to UConn in recent years. In 2021, the insurance company gave $1 million to create The Hartford Scholars Program, which provided financial support and mentoring for 50 UConn Hartford students.

    The student housing support will help address a pressing need on the Hartford campus, where about 86 percent of students received some form of financial aid last year. Approximately 58 percent received federal Pell Grants, which are awarded to the neediest students.

    In a survey, about 70% of UConn Hartford students said they would like student housing, but it would need to be affordable since many live with their parents.

    UConn’s presence in Hartford continues to grow as the University deepens its ties with the capital city. This fall, the University will open a new café in the downtown campus in the former Hartford Times building. UConn also recently opened a research center near PeoplesBank Arena, formerly known as the XL Center.

    Support the Hartford Residential Scholars Enhancement Fund.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: A Vibrant Partnership: UConn Husky Nutrition & Sport and Hartford Public Schools Support Healthy Eating and Physical Activity for Over 20 Years

    Source: US State of Connecticut

    UConn Husky Nutrition & Sport has been supporting Connecticut children, families, and educators for decades, promoting healthy eating and physical activity through impactful educational programs. Although the campus-community partnership has connections throughout the state, it has partnered with one Hartford elementary school since 2005. For the past nine years, that school has been Fred D. Wish Museum School, where UConn Husky Nutrition & Sport (UConn HNS) works alongside students, staff, families, and community partners to offer more than 600 educational program sessions a year.

    “UConn HNS people bring such an impactful energy to our school community,” says principal Kesha Ryan. “They know our students, and our students know them, which is a real credit to the investments they make to build positive relationships. It’s an extensive partnership in that their presence is a part of our everyday activities. Our staff and families can depend on their staff and programs, our students have fun and learn about healthy eating and exercise, and we maintain regular collaboration in support of the students and community of Wish School.”

    The hundreds of sessions at Wish School span all grade levels and are offered during the school day, after school, and as schoolwide initiatives. The educational sessions focus on a variety of topics: nutrition lessons based on the U.S. Department of Agriculture’s MyPlate initiative, hands-on healthy snack prep and tastings, active games, sport-sampling, and literacy skills.

    UConn students receive hands-on experiential learning while leading programs at Wish School. (UConn HNS photo)

    In addition, past schoolwide initiatives that UConn HNS has supported have included new recess equipment, indoor and outdoor recess campaigns, new policies such as healthy classroom checklists, the integration of positive behavioral interventions and supports, teacher appreciation days, family events, cultural celebrations, field trips to UConn, activities surrounding National Nutrition Month in March, and support for the growing Wish Media Club.

    The vibrant partnership has a lot of moving parts that require collaboration to ensure everything continues to work effectively. Logistically, staff, schedules, school committees, and lesson plans all have to align, while also allowing time for feedback and evaluation to support improvement.

    “We take a lot of pride in our ability to build meaningful relationships with individual people, while also maintaining lines of communication and systems that allow for us to serve as a strong and reliable partner,” says Patricia Bellamy-Mathis ’11 (BUS), ’13 MSW, who is UConn HNS’s director of partnerships and programs. “Being part of the fabric and culture of Wish School requires a great deal of time and investment, but the impacts show themselves every single day.”

    The partnership doesn’t go just one way, however, as UConn students receive hands-on experiential learning while leading programs at Wish School. Every year, UConn HNS recruits and funds 10-12 graduate assistants completing master’s and doctoral degrees across multiple University programs. To date, more than 100 graduate students have benefited from professional development through UConn HNS.

    UConn HNS people bring such an impactful energy to our school community. They know our students, and our students know them, which is a real credit to the investments they make to build positive relationships. &#8212 Kesha Ryan, principal of Fred D. Wish Museum School

    “We bring together a group of graduate students who all show up every day at Wish School committed to cultivating an environment that is full of fun, connection, and learning,” says Veronica Jacobs ’16 (CLAS), who currently leads 12 graduate students at Wish School. “The strength of our team lies in our graduate assistants coming from several academic disciplines with varying career goals, and in our ability to challenge and support each other to become better professionals. One moment we are celebrating the successful delivery of a lesson and in another moment, we are critically reflecting on creative ways to improve our programs. The intention of our efforts shows in the joy of our Wish students as they walk the halls with us, compete against us in a relay race, or see us in the community.”

    “Welcoming UConn students into our Wish family each year is always exciting,” Ryan says. “While they support our students with health education and bring positivity to our community, we are able to support their experiential learning and growth as future educators, social workers, health professionals, and more. As a team, we are shaping future professionals both at the elementary and collegiate levels. It’s a win-win partnership.”

    UConn HNS is housed within the Neag School of Education and works closely with students in the School’s Integrated Bachelor’s/Master’s (IB/M) teacher preparation program. These future teachers gain practical experience working in Wish School, as well as the opportunity to conduct educational research.

    “UConn HNS provides education students unique opportunities to grow in their community skills,” says Austina Lee, an assistant clinical professor at the Neag School who supports the IB/M program and its students. “The co-teaching model wherein they collaborate with peers from across specialties, the professional development sessions that inspire innovative approaches, and the community engagement that open their eyes to the lived experiences of students and their families all coalesce to inform robust inquiry and practical research. IB/M students who participate in HNS graduate with a depth and breadth of experiences that expand their instructional skills and enhance their expression through the art of teaching.”

    Sarah Lockwood ’24 (ED), ’25 MA shows Wish School students her decorated mortarboard during the school’s 2025 Grad Walk. (UConn HNS photo)

    Several special events throughout the year bring UConn and Wish students together and cultivate extra joy for the community. Every May, Wish School celebrates the UConn students who are graduating with the annual Grad Walk. Wish School students and staff line the hallways of the school to cheer on the graduating Huskies that worked there. Another annual tradition is Wish School Field Day, which involves the whole school every June and acts as an introduction to UConn HNS’s new summer team. UConn students lead and play alongside the children in such activities as relay races, tug-of-war, foursquare, parachutes, hula-hoop competitions, and soccer games.

    New this year was the Healthy Wish School Walk-A-Thon, which was created to celebrate a year of fun, physical activity at the school. Led by UConn HNS staff and hosted in the outside play area of Wish School, all students and staff were invited to participate throughout the day in a one-mile walking course that included activities along the way for hydration, healthy snacks, and a jump rope challenge. By the end of the day, Wish School students and staff combined to walk more than 440 miles.

    “UConn Husky Nutrition & Sport’s long-standing relationship with Hartford Public Schools, and specifically Wish School, exemplifies the potential and power of ‘town-gown’ partnerships,” says Neag School Dean Jason G. Irizarry. “I’m proud that UConn HNS’s ongoing efforts across the state recently earned them the 2025 Staff Team Award in the Provost’s Awards for Excellence in Community-Engaged Scholarship. I also congratulate them on their outstanding recent fundraising efforts, including winning the President’s and Provost’s Project Leaderboard Challenge during UConn Gives 2025. The dedication of UConn HNS’s staff and students changes lives across Connecticut, ensuring adults and children can access nutrition and physical activity education.”

    To learn more about UConn Husky Nutrition & Sport, visit huskynutritionsport.education.uconn.edu.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: A Vibrant Partnership: UConn Husky Nutrition & Sport and Hartford Public Schools Support Healthy Eating and Physical Activity for Over 20 Years

    Source: US State of Connecticut

    UConn Husky Nutrition & Sport has been supporting Connecticut children, families, and educators for decades, promoting healthy eating and physical activity through impactful educational programs. Although the campus-community partnership has connections throughout the state, it has partnered with one Hartford elementary school since 2005. For the past nine years, that school has been Fred D. Wish Museum School, where UConn Husky Nutrition & Sport (UConn HNS) works alongside students, staff, families, and community partners to offer more than 600 educational program sessions a year.

    “UConn HNS people bring such an impactful energy to our school community,” says principal Kesha Ryan. “They know our students, and our students know them, which is a real credit to the investments they make to build positive relationships. It’s an extensive partnership in that their presence is a part of our everyday activities. Our staff and families can depend on their staff and programs, our students have fun and learn about healthy eating and exercise, and we maintain regular collaboration in support of the students and community of Wish School.”

    The hundreds of sessions at Wish School span all grade levels and are offered during the school day, after school, and as schoolwide initiatives. The educational sessions focus on a variety of topics: nutrition lessons based on the U.S. Department of Agriculture’s MyPlate initiative, hands-on healthy snack prep and tastings, active games, sport-sampling, and literacy skills.

    UConn students receive hands-on experiential learning while leading programs at Wish School. (UConn HNS photo)

    In addition, past schoolwide initiatives that UConn HNS has supported have included new recess equipment, indoor and outdoor recess campaigns, new policies such as healthy classroom checklists, the integration of positive behavioral interventions and supports, teacher appreciation days, family events, cultural celebrations, field trips to UConn, activities surrounding National Nutrition Month in March, and support for the growing Wish Media Club.

    The vibrant partnership has a lot of moving parts that require collaboration to ensure everything continues to work effectively. Logistically, staff, schedules, school committees, and lesson plans all have to align, while also allowing time for feedback and evaluation to support improvement.

    “We take a lot of pride in our ability to build meaningful relationships with individual people, while also maintaining lines of communication and systems that allow for us to serve as a strong and reliable partner,” says Patricia Bellamy-Mathis ’11 (BUS), ’13 MSW, who is UConn HNS’s director of partnerships and programs. “Being part of the fabric and culture of Wish School requires a great deal of time and investment, but the impacts show themselves every single day.”

    The partnership doesn’t go just one way, however, as UConn students receive hands-on experiential learning while leading programs at Wish School. Every year, UConn HNS recruits and funds 10-12 graduate assistants completing master’s and doctoral degrees across multiple University programs. To date, more than 100 graduate students have benefited from professional development through UConn HNS.

    UConn HNS people bring such an impactful energy to our school community. They know our students, and our students know them, which is a real credit to the investments they make to build positive relationships. &#8212 Kesha Ryan, principal of Fred D. Wish Museum School

    “We bring together a group of graduate students who all show up every day at Wish School committed to cultivating an environment that is full of fun, connection, and learning,” says Veronica Jacobs ’16 (CLAS), who currently leads 12 graduate students at Wish School. “The strength of our team lies in our graduate assistants coming from several academic disciplines with varying career goals, and in our ability to challenge and support each other to become better professionals. One moment we are celebrating the successful delivery of a lesson and in another moment, we are critically reflecting on creative ways to improve our programs. The intention of our efforts shows in the joy of our Wish students as they walk the halls with us, compete against us in a relay race, or see us in the community.”

    “Welcoming UConn students into our Wish family each year is always exciting,” Ryan says. “While they support our students with health education and bring positivity to our community, we are able to support their experiential learning and growth as future educators, social workers, health professionals, and more. As a team, we are shaping future professionals both at the elementary and collegiate levels. It’s a win-win partnership.”

    UConn HNS is housed within the Neag School of Education and works closely with students in the School’s Integrated Bachelor’s/Master’s (IB/M) teacher preparation program. These future teachers gain practical experience working in Wish School, as well as the opportunity to conduct educational research.

    “UConn HNS provides education students unique opportunities to grow in their community skills,” says Austina Lee, an assistant clinical professor at the Neag School who supports the IB/M program and its students. “The co-teaching model wherein they collaborate with peers from across specialties, the professional development sessions that inspire innovative approaches, and the community engagement that open their eyes to the lived experiences of students and their families all coalesce to inform robust inquiry and practical research. IB/M students who participate in HNS graduate with a depth and breadth of experiences that expand their instructional skills and enhance their expression through the art of teaching.”

    Sarah Lockwood ’24 (ED), ’25 MA shows Wish School students her decorated mortarboard during the school’s 2025 Grad Walk. (UConn HNS photo)

    Several special events throughout the year bring UConn and Wish students together and cultivate extra joy for the community. Every May, Wish School celebrates the UConn students who are graduating with the annual Grad Walk. Wish School students and staff line the hallways of the school to cheer on the graduating Huskies that worked there. Another annual tradition is Wish School Field Day, which involves the whole school every June and acts as an introduction to UConn HNS’s new summer team. UConn students lead and play alongside the children in such activities as relay races, tug-of-war, foursquare, parachutes, hula-hoop competitions, and soccer games.

    New this year was the Healthy Wish School Walk-A-Thon, which was created to celebrate a year of fun, physical activity at the school. Led by UConn HNS staff and hosted in the outside play area of Wish School, all students and staff were invited to participate throughout the day in a one-mile walking course that included activities along the way for hydration, healthy snacks, and a jump rope challenge. By the end of the day, Wish School students and staff combined to walk more than 440 miles.

    “UConn Husky Nutrition & Sport’s long-standing relationship with Hartford Public Schools, and specifically Wish School, exemplifies the potential and power of ‘town-gown’ partnerships,” says Neag School Dean Jason G. Irizarry. “I’m proud that UConn HNS’s ongoing efforts across the state recently earned them the 2025 Staff Team Award in the Provost’s Awards for Excellence in Community-Engaged Scholarship. I also congratulate them on their outstanding recent fundraising efforts, including winning the President’s and Provost’s Project Leaderboard Challenge during UConn Gives 2025. The dedication of UConn HNS’s staff and students changes lives across Connecticut, ensuring adults and children can access nutrition and physical activity education.”

    To learn more about UConn Husky Nutrition & Sport, visit huskynutritionsport.education.uconn.edu.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI NGOs: Oceans Threatened whale species found in areas targeted by The Metals Company for deep sea mining, scientists warn Exeter, UK – 24.06.2025 – A scientific survey of two areas targeted for deep sea mining in the Pacific Ocean by The Metals Company has confirmed the presence of whales… by Alison Kirkman June 24, 2025

    Source: Greenpeace Statement –

    Exeter, UK – 24.06.2025 – A scientific survey of two areas targeted for deep sea mining in the Pacific Ocean by The Metals Company has confirmed the presence of whales and dolphins, including sperm whales which are listed as vulnerable on the IUCN Red List of Threatened Species. 

    The news comes as world governments are about to attend a meeting of the International Seabed Authority (ISA) next month, with 37 governments already voicing their opposition to deep sea mining. The ISA is the intergovernmental body charged with regulating deep sea mining in international waters. It has a mandate to protect the oceans from harmful effects.

    The survey is published today in the scientific journal, Frontiers in Marine Science. It was conducted by researchers from the University of Exeter and Greenpeace Research Laboratories from Greenpeace International’s ship, Arctic Sunrise. It studied two exploration blocks held by The Metals Company in the Pacific’s Clarion-Clipperton Zone (known as NORI-d and TOML-e).

    Dr Kirsten Young of the University of Exeter and lead author of the study said:

    “We already knew that the Clarion-Clipperton Zone is home to at least 20 species of cetaceans, but we’ve now demonstrated their presence in two areas specifically earmarked for deep sea mining by The Metals Company.”

    Following President Trump’s approval of a deep sea mining Executive Order in April, The Metals Company applied to the US government to give TMC unilateral permission to commercially mine the international seabed in the Clarion-Clipperton Zone. According to reports, this application covers the NORI-d area. This bypasses and undermines the International Seabed Authority, the UN regulator for deep sea mining and has been met with strong criticism from governments around the world. Scientists have previously warned of “long lasting, irreversible” impacts of deep sea mining on the region.

    Cetaceans are known to be impacted by noise pollution caused by humans, and could be impacted by the significant noise expected to be created by deep sea mining operations. These operations would also generate sediment plumes, which could impact cetacean populations by disrupting deep ocean food systems.

    Dr Kirsten Young continued:

    “While more research is needed to build a complete picture of the impact of the noise and sediment plumes on cetaceans, it’s clear that deep sea mining operations will negatively impact ocean ecosystems in areas far out to sea where monitoring is particularly challenging.”

    The survey provides a 13-day snapshot of cetacean activity in these two deep sea mining exploration areas. Using hydrophones, the research team confirmed 74 acoustic detections of cetaceans. This included a sperm whale, Risso’s dolphins and common dolphins.

    Louisa Casson of Greenpeace International said:

    “The Metals Company’s plans to mine the seabed in the Pacific are not only a slap in the face for multilateralism and international law, science confirms they would expose some of our most iconic, charismatic and beautiful marine life to noise and other forms of pollution if allowed to go ahead.

    “The confirmed presence of cetaceans, including threatened sperm whales, in areas that The Metals Company is targeting for deep sea mining is yet another clear warning that this dangerous industry must never be allowed to begin commercial operations.

    “If these species are present in TMC licence areas, it’s highly likely they’re across others too, like those sponsored through UK Seabed Resources by the UK Government. We already know from documents obtained via freedom of information requests that minke whales have been observed in UKSR1. 

    “This is no time for the UK and other governments to continue futile discussions about a set of rules to allow deep sea mining to start. The only sensible course of action at next month’s International Seabed Authority meeting would be to prioritise agreeing on a global moratorium.”

    This study in the Pacific is mirrored by another recent piece of Greenpeace research in the Arctic. Researchers found cetaceans, including deep-diving and noise-sensitive sperm whales and northern bottlenose whales, in an area targeted for future mining. If the Norwegian government proceeds with deep sea mining in the area, noise and pollution pose severe consequences. Greenpeace researchers are in the Arctic right now further documenting the presence of cetaceans in the area to expose the risks of deep sea mining and to champion the protection of the Arctic’s vulnerable marine life.

    Calls for a moratorium on deep sea mining grew at the recent UN Ocean Conference, with four new countries joining the group supporting a moratorium, bringing the total to 37. The UN Secretary General also issued a strong call to stop this dangerous industry. Momentum against deep sea mining will now be carried forward to the July ISA meeting.

    Ends

    Download whale and deep sea mining images here

    Download whale videos and images from the ongoing expedition to the proposed mining area in the Norwegian Sea here

    The survey was published today in the Frontiers in Marine Science peer reviewed journal. A full copy of the paper is available on request.

    Contacts:

    Greenpeace International Press Desk: pressdesk.int@greenpeace.org, +31 (0) 20 718 2470 (available 24 hours)

    MIL OSI NGO –

  • MIL-OSI Europe: OSCE Presence presents feasibility study for Research Centre on Local Development at Gjirokastra University

    Source: Organization for Security and Co-operation in Europe – OSCE

    Headline: OSCE Presence presents feasibility study for Research Centre on Local Development at Gjirokastra University

    OSCE Presence in Albania presents feasibility study for Research Centre on Local Development at Gjirokastra University. (OSCE/Shila Bandilli) Photo details

    On 24 June, the OSCE Presence in Albania, in partnership with the University of Gjirokastra, presented the findings of a feasibility assessment for a Research Centre for Local Development.
    The event convened academic staff, government representatives, civil society, students, and local stakeholders to discuss the pivotal role of research and data in supporting policymaking and fostering sustainable local development.
    The meeting was officially opened by Professor Jaho Cana, Rector of the University of Gjirokastra; Ambassador Michel Tarran, Head of the OSCE Presence in Albania; and representatives from the Municipality of Gjirokastra and the Agency for the Support of Local Self-Government.
    In his remarks, Ambassador Tarran, the Head of OSCE Presence in Albania, emphasized the critical role that academic research can play in addressing the complex issues confronting local communities. “Local governments are at the forefront of tackling challenges such as economic growth, depopulation, environmental degradation, and climate change. A dedicated research centre can provide the tools, analyses, and trained professionals necessary to support evidence-based decisions and build long-term resilience,” he stated.
    The feasibility study, conducted by an OSCE-contracted expert, is the result of extensive consultations with academic staff, municipalities, and local stakeholders. It identifies clear needs, opportunities, and potential models for the establishment of an interdisciplinary research hub designed to support policy formulation, local economic and social development, and regional capacity-building.
    This initiative forms part of the OSCE Presence’s ongoing support to strengthening local governance in Albania, by introducing new instruments and tools for co-operation among authorities, civil society, academia, and the business sector to foster sustainable and inclusive growth across the country.

    MIL OSI Europe News –

  • MIL-Evening Report: Will the fragile ceasefire between Iran and Israel hold? One factor could be crucial to it sticking

    Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Ali Mamouri, Research Fellow, Middle East Studies, Deakin University

    Amir Levy/Getty Images

    After 12 days of war, US President Donald Trump has announced a ceasefire between Israel and Iran that would bring to an end the most dramatic, direct conflict between the two nations in decades.

    Israel and Iran both agreed to adhere to the ceasefire, though they said they would respond with force to any breach.

    If the ceasefire holds – a big if – the key question will be whether this signals the start of lasting peace, or merely a brief pause before renewed conflict.

    As contemporary war studies show, peace tends to endure under one of two conditions: either the total defeat of one side, or the establishment of mutual deterrence. This means both parties refrain from aggression because the expected costs of retaliation far outweigh any potential gains.

    What did each side gain?

    The war marked a turning point for Israel in its decades-long confrontation with Iran. For the first time, Israel successfully brought a prolonged battle to Iranian soil, shifting the conflict from confrontations with Iranian-backed proxy militant groups to direct strikes on Iran itself.

    This was made possible largely due to Israel’s success over the past two years in weakening Iran’s regional proxy network, particularly Hezbollah in Lebanon and Shiite militias in Syria.

    Over the past two weeks, Israel has inflicted significant damage on Iran’s military and scientific elite, killing several high-ranking commanders and nuclear scientists. The civilian toll was also high.

    Additionally, Israel achieved a major strategic objective by pulling the United States directly into the conflict. In coordination with Israel, the US launched strikes on three of Iran’s primary nuclear facilities: Fordow, Natanz and Isfahan.

    Despite these gains, Israel did not accomplish all of its stated goals. Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu had voiced support for regime change, urging Iranians to rise up against Supreme Leader Ali Khamenei’s government, but the senior leadership in Iran remains intact.

    Additionally, Israel did not fully eliminate Iran’s missile program, as Iran continued striking to the last minute before the ceasefire. And Tehran did not acquiesce to Trump’s pre-war demand to end uranium enrichment.

    Although Iran was caught off-guard by Israel’s attacks — particularly as it was engaged in nuclear negotiations with the US — it responded by launching hundreds of missiles towards Israel.

    While many were intercepted, a significant number penetrated Israeli air defences, causing widespread destruction in major cities, dozens of fatalities and hundreds of injuries.

    Iran demonstrated its capacity to strike back, though Israel succeeded in destroying many of its air defence systems, some ballistic missile assets (including missile launchers) and multiple energy facilities.

    Since the beginning of the assault, Iranian officials have repeatedly called for a halt to resume negotiations. Under intense pressure, Iran realised it would not benefit from a prolonged war of attrition with Israel — especially as both nations faced mounting costs and the risk of depleting their military stockpiles if the war continued.

    As theories of victory suggest, success in war is defined not only by the damage inflicted, but by achieving core strategic goals and weakening the enemy’s will and capacity to resist.

    While Israel claims to have achieved the bulk of its objectives, the extent of the damage to Iran’s nuclear program is not fully known, nor is its capacity to continue enriching uranium.

    Both sides could remain locked in a volatile standoff over Iran’s nuclear program, with the conflict potentially reigniting whenever either side perceives a strategic opportunity.

    Sticking point over Iran’s nuclear program

    Iran faces even greater challenges as it emerges from the war. With a heavy toll on its leadership and nuclear infrastructure, Tehran will likely prioritise rebuilding its deterrence capability.

    That includes acquiring new advanced air defence systems — potentially from China — and restoring key components of its missile and nuclear programs. (Some experts say Iran did not use some of its most powerful missiles to maintain this deterrence.)

    Iranian officials have claimed they safeguarded more than 400 kilograms of 60% enriched uranium before the attacks. This stockpile could theoretically be converted into nine to ten nuclear warheads if further enriched to 90%.

    Trump declared Iran’s nuclear capacity had been “totally obliterated”, whereas Rafael Grossi, the United Nations’ nuclear watchdog chief, said damage to Iran’s facilities was “very significant”.

    However, analysts have argued Iran will still have a depth of technical knowledge accumulated over decades. Depending on the extent of the damage to its underground facilities, Iran could be capable of restoring and even accelerating its program in a relatively short time frame.

    And the chances of reviving negotiations on Iran’s nuclear program appear slimmer than ever.

    What might future deterrence look like?

    The war has fundamentally reshaped how both Iran and Israel perceive deterrence — and how they plan to secure it going forward.

    For Iran, the conflict reinforced the belief that its survival is at stake. With regime change openly discussed during the war, Iran’s leaders appear more convinced than ever that true deterrence requires two key pillars: nuclear weapons capability, and deeper strategic alignment with China and Russia.

    As a result, Iran is expected to move rapidly to restore and advance its nuclear program, potentially moving towards actual weaponisation — a step it had long avoided, officially.

    At the same time, Tehran is likely to accelerate military and economic cooperation with Beijing and Moscow to hedge against isolation. Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi emphasised this close engagement with Russia during a visit to Moscow this week, particularly on nuclear matters.

    Israel, meanwhile, sees deterrence as requiring constant vigilance and a credible threat of overwhelming retaliation. In the absence of diplomatic breakthroughs, Israel may adopt a policy of immediate preemptive strikes on Iranian facilities or leadership figures if it detects any new escalation — particularly related to Iran’s nuclear program.

    In this context, the current ceasefire appears fragile. Without comprehensive negotiations that address the core issues — namely, Iran’s nuclear capabilities — the pause in hostilities may prove temporary.

    Mutual deterrence may prevent a more protracted war for now, but the balance remains precarious and could collapse with little warning.

    Ali Mamouri does not work for, consult, own shares in or receive funding from any company or organisation that would benefit from this article, and has disclosed no relevant affiliations beyond their academic appointment.

    – ref. Will the fragile ceasefire between Iran and Israel hold? One factor could be crucial to it sticking – https://theconversation.com/will-the-fragile-ceasefire-between-iran-and-israel-hold-one-factor-could-be-crucial-to-it-sticking-259669

    MIL OSI Analysis – EveningReport.nz –

  • MIL-Evening Report: Will the fragile ceasefire between Iran and Israel hold? One factor could be crucial to it sticking

    Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Ali Mamouri, Research Fellow, Middle East Studies, Deakin University

    Amir Levy/Getty Images

    After 12 days of war, US President Donald Trump has announced a ceasefire between Israel and Iran that would bring to an end the most dramatic, direct conflict between the two nations in decades.

    Israel and Iran both agreed to adhere to the ceasefire, though they said they would respond with force to any breach.

    If the ceasefire holds – a big if – the key question will be whether this signals the start of lasting peace, or merely a brief pause before renewed conflict.

    As contemporary war studies show, peace tends to endure under one of two conditions: either the total defeat of one side, or the establishment of mutual deterrence. This means both parties refrain from aggression because the expected costs of retaliation far outweigh any potential gains.

    What did each side gain?

    The war marked a turning point for Israel in its decades-long confrontation with Iran. For the first time, Israel successfully brought a prolonged battle to Iranian soil, shifting the conflict from confrontations with Iranian-backed proxy militant groups to direct strikes on Iran itself.

    This was made possible largely due to Israel’s success over the past two years in weakening Iran’s regional proxy network, particularly Hezbollah in Lebanon and Shiite militias in Syria.

    Over the past two weeks, Israel has inflicted significant damage on Iran’s military and scientific elite, killing several high-ranking commanders and nuclear scientists. The civilian toll was also high.

    Additionally, Israel achieved a major strategic objective by pulling the United States directly into the conflict. In coordination with Israel, the US launched strikes on three of Iran’s primary nuclear facilities: Fordow, Natanz and Isfahan.

    Despite these gains, Israel did not accomplish all of its stated goals. Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu had voiced support for regime change, urging Iranians to rise up against Supreme Leader Ali Khamenei’s government, but the senior leadership in Iran remains intact.

    Additionally, Israel did not fully eliminate Iran’s missile program, as Iran continued striking to the last minute before the ceasefire. And Tehran did not acquiesce to Trump’s pre-war demand to end uranium enrichment.

    Although Iran was caught off-guard by Israel’s attacks — particularly as it was engaged in nuclear negotiations with the US — it responded by launching hundreds of missiles towards Israel.

    While many were intercepted, a significant number penetrated Israeli air defences, causing widespread destruction in major cities, dozens of fatalities and hundreds of injuries.

    Iran demonstrated its capacity to strike back, though Israel succeeded in destroying many of its air defence systems, some ballistic missile assets (including missile launchers) and multiple energy facilities.

    Since the beginning of the assault, Iranian officials have repeatedly called for a halt to resume negotiations. Under intense pressure, Iran realised it would not benefit from a prolonged war of attrition with Israel — especially as both nations faced mounting costs and the risk of depleting their military stockpiles if the war continued.

    As theories of victory suggest, success in war is defined not only by the damage inflicted, but by achieving core strategic goals and weakening the enemy’s will and capacity to resist.

    While Israel claims to have achieved the bulk of its objectives, the extent of the damage to Iran’s nuclear program is not fully known, nor is its capacity to continue enriching uranium.

    Both sides could remain locked in a volatile standoff over Iran’s nuclear program, with the conflict potentially reigniting whenever either side perceives a strategic opportunity.

    Sticking point over Iran’s nuclear program

    Iran faces even greater challenges as it emerges from the war. With a heavy toll on its leadership and nuclear infrastructure, Tehran will likely prioritise rebuilding its deterrence capability.

    That includes acquiring new advanced air defence systems — potentially from China — and restoring key components of its missile and nuclear programs. (Some experts say Iran did not use some of its most powerful missiles to maintain this deterrence.)

    Iranian officials have claimed they safeguarded more than 400 kilograms of 60% enriched uranium before the attacks. This stockpile could theoretically be converted into nine to ten nuclear warheads if further enriched to 90%.

    Trump declared Iran’s nuclear capacity had been “totally obliterated”, whereas Rafael Grossi, the United Nations’ nuclear watchdog chief, said damage to Iran’s facilities was “very significant”.

    However, analysts have argued Iran will still have a depth of technical knowledge accumulated over decades. Depending on the extent of the damage to its underground facilities, Iran could be capable of restoring and even accelerating its program in a relatively short time frame.

    And the chances of reviving negotiations on Iran’s nuclear program appear slimmer than ever.

    What might future deterrence look like?

    The war has fundamentally reshaped how both Iran and Israel perceive deterrence — and how they plan to secure it going forward.

    For Iran, the conflict reinforced the belief that its survival is at stake. With regime change openly discussed during the war, Iran’s leaders appear more convinced than ever that true deterrence requires two key pillars: nuclear weapons capability, and deeper strategic alignment with China and Russia.

    As a result, Iran is expected to move rapidly to restore and advance its nuclear program, potentially moving towards actual weaponisation — a step it had long avoided, officially.

    At the same time, Tehran is likely to accelerate military and economic cooperation with Beijing and Moscow to hedge against isolation. Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi emphasised this close engagement with Russia during a visit to Moscow this week, particularly on nuclear matters.

    Israel, meanwhile, sees deterrence as requiring constant vigilance and a credible threat of overwhelming retaliation. In the absence of diplomatic breakthroughs, Israel may adopt a policy of immediate preemptive strikes on Iranian facilities or leadership figures if it detects any new escalation — particularly related to Iran’s nuclear program.

    In this context, the current ceasefire appears fragile. Without comprehensive negotiations that address the core issues — namely, Iran’s nuclear capabilities — the pause in hostilities may prove temporary.

    Mutual deterrence may prevent a more protracted war for now, but the balance remains precarious and could collapse with little warning.

    Ali Mamouri does not work for, consult, own shares in or receive funding from any company or organisation that would benefit from this article, and has disclosed no relevant affiliations beyond their academic appointment.

    – ref. Will the fragile ceasefire between Iran and Israel hold? One factor could be crucial to it sticking – https://theconversation.com/will-the-fragile-ceasefire-between-iran-and-israel-hold-one-factor-could-be-crucial-to-it-sticking-259669

    MIL OSI Analysis – EveningReport.nz –

  • MIL-OSI Global: NHS to offer at-home cervical cancer screening – an expert explains what you need to know

    Source: The Conversation – UK – By Dipa Kamdar, Senior Lecturer in Pharmacy Practice, Kingston University

    Iryna Inshyna/Shutterstock

    Nearly one in three women and other people with a cervix in the UK don’t attend their cervical screening when invited. Yet this quick, routine test helps prevent up to 70% of cervical cancer deaths by detecting problems early — and if everyone took part, that figure could rise to over 80%.

    Since December 2019, England has adopted a more accurate screening method that tests first for high-risk human papillomavirus (HPV), the virus responsible for nearly all cervical cancers, rather than looking immediately for abnormal cervical cells. Recommended by the UK National Screening Committee, this approach allows for longer intervals between tests for those who receive a negative HPV result, typically every five years instead of every three.

    From July 1 2025, this updated screening schedule will apply to women aged 25 to 49 who test negative for high-risk HPV. Research shows that those who test negative are at very low risk of developing cervical cancer in the following decade.

    Since the announcement, some women have raised concerns online, often shaped by personal experience. One woman posted on Facebook:

    “I had a positive smear when I was younger. It had been negative three years earlier… Imagine if I’d had to wait two more years before finding out I was positive.”

    Others have echoed these fears, calling not only for shorter screening intervals but for earlier testing ages. With around 3,200 people diagnosed with cervical cancer in the UK each year, some wonder whether the change is rooted in science — or in cost-cutting.

    What is cervical screening?

    Cervical screening, previously called a smear test, is a simple, routine way to help prevent cervical cancer. It’s offered to women, some trans men and non-binary people with a cervix. The test checks the cervix (the opening to the womb) for early signs of change that could lead to cancer if left untreated.

    It’s not a test for cancer itself. Instead, it looks for HPV, a common virus that can cause abnormal cell changes. If high-risk HPV is found, the sample is then checked for abnormal cells, which can be treated before they develop into cancer. If no HPV is detected, the risk is extremely low.

    Why is the screening interval changing?

    Under the new system, those who test negative for high-risk HPV will be screened every five years, rather than every three. This brings younger people in line with those aged 50 to 64, who already follow a five-year schedule.

    Anyone who tests positive for HPV will continue to receive annual follow-ups.

    This shift is supported by strong scientific evidence. HPV screening is more accurate than the previous method, which only looked for abnormal cells. Studies show that people who test negative for high-risk HPV are at very low risk of cervical cancer for many years — making five-year intervals safe and effective.

    The HPV vaccine

    The introduction of the HPV vaccine in the UK has significantly reduced HPV infections, the leading cause of cervical cancer. Research shows the vaccine can prevent up to 90% of cases, and the latest version, introduced in 2021, provides even broader protection.

    Combined with screening, the vaccine has contributed to a 25% drop in cervical cancer rates since the early 1990s.

    Self-sampling kits

    Despite these advances, many people still miss their screening appointments due to embarrassment, discomfort, time constraints or cultural concerns. Starting in January 2026, NHS England will offer at-home cervical screening kits to women and others with a cervix who rarely or never attend routine screening.

    With more than five million women not currently up to date, the scheme aims to boost participation — especially among underscreened groups, including younger people, ethnic minorities, disabled people and LGBT+ people. Trials suggest self-sampling could raise uptake to 77% within three years, nearing the NHS target of 80%.

    The kits, sent in discreet packaging with pre-paid return postage, allow people aged 25 to 64 to take a simple vaginal swab at home. The sample is tested for HPV, and if high-risk strains are found, the patient is invited for further tests.

    Is the new schedule safe?

    For most people, yes. The longer interval means fewer appointments for those at low risk, without compromising early detection for those who need it. The test itself usually causes only mild discomfort or pressure, and light spotting can occur afterwards. If you’re concerned, your doctor or nurse can help.

    While some worry that five years is too long to wait, it’s important to remember that HPV testing is highly accurate – and annual follow-ups remain in place for those who need closer monitoring.

    Even if you’re not due for screening, it’s vital to know the signs of cervical cancer, including:

    • Unusual vaginal bleeding (after sex, between periods or after menopause)

    • Changes in vaginal discharge

    • Pain during sex

    • Pain in the lower back or pelvis

    If you experience any of these symptoms, don’t wait for your next screening – contact your GP straight away.

    Cervical screening saves lives. The shift to five-year intervals is backed by science and designed to keep people safe while reducing unnecessary appointments. If you’re invited, go – even if you feel fine. And if something doesn’t feel right, speak up.

    The aim is simple: catch problems early, prevent cancer, and protect lives.

    Dipa Kamdar does not work for, consult, own shares in or receive funding from any company or organisation that would benefit from this article, and has disclosed no relevant affiliations beyond their academic appointment.

    – ref. NHS to offer at-home cervical cancer screening – an expert explains what you need to know – https://theconversation.com/nhs-to-offer-at-home-cervical-cancer-screening-an-expert-explains-what-you-need-to-know-259299

    MIL OSI – Global Reports –

  • MIL-OSI Global: NHS to offer at-home cervical cancer screening – an expert explains what you need to know

    Source: The Conversation – UK – By Dipa Kamdar, Senior Lecturer in Pharmacy Practice, Kingston University

    Iryna Inshyna/Shutterstock

    Nearly one in three women and other people with a cervix in the UK don’t attend their cervical screening when invited. Yet this quick, routine test helps prevent up to 70% of cervical cancer deaths by detecting problems early — and if everyone took part, that figure could rise to over 80%.

    Since December 2019, England has adopted a more accurate screening method that tests first for high-risk human papillomavirus (HPV), the virus responsible for nearly all cervical cancers, rather than looking immediately for abnormal cervical cells. Recommended by the UK National Screening Committee, this approach allows for longer intervals between tests for those who receive a negative HPV result, typically every five years instead of every three.

    From July 1 2025, this updated screening schedule will apply to women aged 25 to 49 who test negative for high-risk HPV. Research shows that those who test negative are at very low risk of developing cervical cancer in the following decade.

    Since the announcement, some women have raised concerns online, often shaped by personal experience. One woman posted on Facebook:

    “I had a positive smear when I was younger. It had been negative three years earlier… Imagine if I’d had to wait two more years before finding out I was positive.”

    Others have echoed these fears, calling not only for shorter screening intervals but for earlier testing ages. With around 3,200 people diagnosed with cervical cancer in the UK each year, some wonder whether the change is rooted in science — or in cost-cutting.

    What is cervical screening?

    Cervical screening, previously called a smear test, is a simple, routine way to help prevent cervical cancer. It’s offered to women, some trans men and non-binary people with a cervix. The test checks the cervix (the opening to the womb) for early signs of change that could lead to cancer if left untreated.

    It’s not a test for cancer itself. Instead, it looks for HPV, a common virus that can cause abnormal cell changes. If high-risk HPV is found, the sample is then checked for abnormal cells, which can be treated before they develop into cancer. If no HPV is detected, the risk is extremely low.

    Why is the screening interval changing?

    Under the new system, those who test negative for high-risk HPV will be screened every five years, rather than every three. This brings younger people in line with those aged 50 to 64, who already follow a five-year schedule.

    Anyone who tests positive for HPV will continue to receive annual follow-ups.

    This shift is supported by strong scientific evidence. HPV screening is more accurate than the previous method, which only looked for abnormal cells. Studies show that people who test negative for high-risk HPV are at very low risk of cervical cancer for many years — making five-year intervals safe and effective.

    The HPV vaccine

    The introduction of the HPV vaccine in the UK has significantly reduced HPV infections, the leading cause of cervical cancer. Research shows the vaccine can prevent up to 90% of cases, and the latest version, introduced in 2021, provides even broader protection.

    Combined with screening, the vaccine has contributed to a 25% drop in cervical cancer rates since the early 1990s.

    Self-sampling kits

    Despite these advances, many people still miss their screening appointments due to embarrassment, discomfort, time constraints or cultural concerns. Starting in January 2026, NHS England will offer at-home cervical screening kits to women and others with a cervix who rarely or never attend routine screening.

    With more than five million women not currently up to date, the scheme aims to boost participation — especially among underscreened groups, including younger people, ethnic minorities, disabled people and LGBT+ people. Trials suggest self-sampling could raise uptake to 77% within three years, nearing the NHS target of 80%.

    The kits, sent in discreet packaging with pre-paid return postage, allow people aged 25 to 64 to take a simple vaginal swab at home. The sample is tested for HPV, and if high-risk strains are found, the patient is invited for further tests.

    Is the new schedule safe?

    For most people, yes. The longer interval means fewer appointments for those at low risk, without compromising early detection for those who need it. The test itself usually causes only mild discomfort or pressure, and light spotting can occur afterwards. If you’re concerned, your doctor or nurse can help.

    While some worry that five years is too long to wait, it’s important to remember that HPV testing is highly accurate – and annual follow-ups remain in place for those who need closer monitoring.

    Even if you’re not due for screening, it’s vital to know the signs of cervical cancer, including:

    • Unusual vaginal bleeding (after sex, between periods or after menopause)

    • Changes in vaginal discharge

    • Pain during sex

    • Pain in the lower back or pelvis

    If you experience any of these symptoms, don’t wait for your next screening – contact your GP straight away.

    Cervical screening saves lives. The shift to five-year intervals is backed by science and designed to keep people safe while reducing unnecessary appointments. If you’re invited, go – even if you feel fine. And if something doesn’t feel right, speak up.

    The aim is simple: catch problems early, prevent cancer, and protect lives.

    Dipa Kamdar does not work for, consult, own shares in or receive funding from any company or organisation that would benefit from this article, and has disclosed no relevant affiliations beyond their academic appointment.

    – ref. NHS to offer at-home cervical cancer screening – an expert explains what you need to know – https://theconversation.com/nhs-to-offer-at-home-cervical-cancer-screening-an-expert-explains-what-you-need-to-know-259299

    MIL OSI – Global Reports –

  • MIL-OSI Russia: At the conference of employees and students of the State University of Management, a new Academic Council was elected and the future of education was discussed

    Translation. Region: Russian Federal

    Source: State University of Management – Official website of the State –

    On June 23, a conference of employees and students of the State University of Management was held at the State University of Management.

    Of the 151 approved delegates, 130 people took part in the meeting; the required quorum was 101 delegates, therefore the Conference was considered to have taken place.

    The Vice-Rector of the State University of Management Dmitry Bryukhanov was unanimously elected as the Chairman of the Conference; the Secretariat included Marina Grigorieva, Artem Geokchakyan and Irina Kogotkova.

    Those gathered also approved the credentials committee, consisting of Marina Zhukova, Olga Zhuravleva and Natalia Tymchuk.

    The following persons were members of the counting commission: Olga Ageeva; Valeria Androsenko; Maria Guseva; Valentina Polyakova; Alexey Stepanov; Marina Trachenko; Milena Trapezanova; Elena Frolova; Andrey Sychev.

    After the conference regulations were approved, those gathered moved on to consider the agenda items, of which there were four:

    Approval of employee representatives in the labor dispute commission; Approval of the number of members of the Academic Council of the State University of Management in the amount of 47 people; Approval of the number of elected members of the Academic Council of the State University of Management in the amount of 32 people; Election of members of the Academic Council of the State University of Management.

    As a result of the vote, the following employees were approved for the labor dispute commission:

    From the employer’s side:

    Bryukhanov Dmitry Yurievich; Lenshin Sergey Ivanovich; Morozova Alexandra Yurievna.

    On behalf of the representative body of workers – the Trade Union Committee of the State University of Management:

    Brikoshina Irina Stanislavovna; Dmitrieva Svetlana Yurievna; Trapezanova Milena Valerievna.

    The number of members of the Academic Council of the State University of Management in the amount of 47 people and the number of elected members of the Academic Council of the State University of Management in the amount of 32 people were also unanimously approved on the basis of the decision of the Academic Council of the State University of Management dated May 27, 2025 No. 13.

    Following a secret vote, the following were elected to the Academic Council:

    No.

     

    Full name of the candidate

     

    1.

    Astafieva Olga Evgenievna

    2.

    Afanasyev Valentin Yakovlevich

    3.

    Ashurbekov Rafik Ashurbekovich

    4.

    Borisova Victoria Vladimirovna

    5.

    Godin Vladimir Viktorovich

    6.

    Grigorieva Marina Yuryevna

    7.

    Gonov Askarbi Muvedovich

    8.

    Dikikh Vadim Alexandrovich

    9.

    Zhukova Marina Alexandrovna

    10.

    Zhuravleva Olga Vyacheslavovna

    11.

    Kabaeva Kristina Olegovna

    12.

    Kamchatova Ekaterina Yuryevna

    13.

    Karp Marina Viktorovna

    14.

    Kuznetsov Nikolay Vladimirovich

    15.

    Larshina Ekaterina Andreevna

    16.

    Morozova Alexandra Yuryevna

    17.

    Nosova Elizaveta Vladimirovna

    18.

    Ovchinnikova Tatyana Vladimirovna

    19.

    Omelchenko Nikolay Alekseevich

    20.

    Perfil’ev Alexey Anatolyevich

    21.

    Pletnev Maxim Gennadievich

    22.

    Polyakov Mikhail Borisovich

    23.

    Redko Evgeniy Valerievich

    24.

    Smirnov Evgeniy Nikolaevich

    25.

    Sokolovskaya Irina Eduardovna

    26.

    Starostin Vasily Sergeevich

    27.

    Sudorgin Oleg Anatolievich

    28.

    Starkova Natalia Alekseevna

    29.

    Sumarokova Ekaterina Viktorovna

    30.

    Chicherin Vadim Petrovich

    31.

    Chuev Sergey Vladimirovich

    32.

    Shnyreva Elena Arkadyevna

    Director of the Department of Digital Development and Admission of Applicants Vadim Dikikh gave a presentation on “The State University of Management in the Modern System of Higher Education”.

    “As you all know, next year higher education in our country will undergo changes. First of all, this is the rejection of the Bologna system and the formation of our own. It is already known that it will consist of three equivalent stages, which will form unified tracks. In other words, each stage will logically continue the previous one and it will be impossible to study at the first stage for one profession, and then go to the second stage for a completely different one. There will also be more practice and interaction with industrial partners in education,” said Vadim Dikikh.

    In addition, Vadim Aleksandrovich devoted significant attention in his speech to the role of artificial intelligence (AI) in the modern education system.

    “Now all browsers use AI to quickly find answers to queries. This has greatly affected both the work of teachers and staff, and interaction with students. AI is only in the development and implementation stage. Many young specialists face problems of misunderstanding when setting a task. Do not forget that neural networks are the same algorithm that was trained on the basis that we ourselves have been creating over the past 50 years in the form of our publications,” Vadim Dikikh shared.

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

    MIL OSI Russia News –

  • MIL-OSI Russia: China makes significant progress in building world’s tallest solar observatory

    Translation. Region: Russian Federal

    Source: People’s Republic of China in Russian – People’s Republic of China in Russian –

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

    CHENGDU, June 24 (Xinhua) — Construction of supporting infrastructure for an advanced solar telescope began Tuesday in Daocheng County, southwest China’s Sichuan Province, marking a major step toward a new era of high-precision solar observation.

    The 2.5-meter wide-field high-resolution solar telescope, a major national scientific instrument development project, is being implemented under the leadership of Nanjing University in partnership with the Nanjing Research Institute of Astronomical Optics and the Yunnan Observatory, both under the Chinese Academy of Sciences (CAS).

    Construction of the telescope officially began in 2022. Once operational, it will be the world’s largest axisymmetric solar telescope.

    The telescope’s strategically chosen site on an unnamed mountain in Daocheng County at an altitude of 4,700 meters above sea level offers exceptional conditions: excellent atmospheric stability and unique parameters for solar observations.

    This site will be the world’s highest solar observation observatory, creating an important foundation for obtaining world-class fundamental observational data.

    The construction of the associated infrastructure and assembly of the telescope module will be completed by the end of 2026, after which a comprehensive adjustment of the entire system will be carried out. -0-

    MIL OSI Russia News –

  • MIL-OSI Russia: China Creates New Healthcare Blueprint for the World

    Translation. Region: Russian Federal

    Source: People’s Republic of China in Russian – People’s Republic of China in Russian –

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

    CHENGDU, June 24 (Xinhua) — How to ensure access to advanced medical services in remote and underdeveloped areas? Can customized medical solutions meet unique needs? With such questions in mind, China is accelerating technological development, creating a new healthcare scheme that benefits the world.

    Jotham Kimondo, a 35-year-old doctoral student from Tanzania, studies at the University of Electronic Science and Technology of China in Chengdu, capital of southwest China’s Sichuan Province.

    Under the guidance of Professor Wu Zhe of Chengdu Tianfu Jincheng Advanced Medical Equipment Research Institute, J. Kimondo is engaged in the development of ultrasonic medical devices.

    As a teacher in Tanzania, J. Kimondo is keen to bring ultrasound equipment design and manufacturing to China to help his country.

    “My research involves innovative design of ultrasound medical devices to monitor pathological changes in human tissues – an important indicator of disease. Women in Tanzania still rely on traditional methods, such as palpation, to examine their breasts. This approach is highly dependent on the individual experience of doctors and is not always accurate. Some women refuse examinations altogether,” explained J. Kimondo.

    He added that many diseases still affect Tanzanians: “I want to improve healthcare in Tanzania, to help people stay healthy. Joint development of innovative ultrasound equipment will be very useful for early screening of breast diseases and other diseases, especially when these devices become more accessible and cheaper for promotion in African countries.”

    There are more than 53 advanced medical companies registered in the Tianfu Jincheng Future Medicine Laboratory City, which are exploring cutting-edge innovation and integrative medicine.

    Recently, at the Remote Ultrasound Center of Tianfu Jincheng Institute, a doctor held an online consultation with a colleague from the Second People’s Hospital of Chengdu East New Area, giving instructions on how to use a portable ultrasound device on a patient’s carotid artery.

    Ultrasound data was displayed in real time on a shared screen, allowing doctors to directly discuss pathologies and make professional diagnoses.

    “Traditional expensive ultrasound machines cost millions. In western China, rural residents often have to travel to county hospitals for checkups,” Wu Zhe explained.

    “Our goal is to ensure widespread use of portable ultrasound devices in rural areas for early diagnosis and monitoring of chronic diseases. Our portable equipment is much cheaper and easier to use in grassroots health care facilities,” he added.

    The portable, smartphone-sized device has already been used in more than 10 medical institutions in eastern Chengdu, providing free carotid artery and thyroid examinations to more than 2,000 residents.

    With China’s growing capabilities in industrial design, manufacturing and medical research, innovation in medical equipment development is rapidly advancing. Growing recognition of Chinese medical devices in overseas markets is increasing international orders, spurring Chinese companies to enter the global market.

    At the Future Medicine Laboratory City, employees of Chengdu Seamaty Technology Co., Ltd. pack reagents for biochemical testing. This batch is being prepared for shipment from Chengdu to destinations around the world.

    This “small giant” company, which develops diagnostic equipment for rapid analysis, already supplies products to more than 150 countries and regions around the world.

    At its quality control center, hundreds of fully automated biochemistry analyzers undergo pre-shipment inspection.

    “This batch of equipment will be shipped to Europe. Last year, the company’s sales were 320 million yuan (about $44.6 million), and in the first five months of this year, our international business grew 59 percent year on year,” said Deputy General Manager Wang Bin, noting that the increase in overseas orders reflects the growing recognition of Chinese medical devices in global markets.

    Innovative technologies such as 3D printing, organs-on-a-chip, nanorobots and neural interfaces are advancing medical device research and application in China, shaping the medical landscape of the future.

    At Chengdu Tianqi Additive Intelligent Manufacturing, 3D printing is used to create personalized medical solutions. Using computer-aided design/computer-aided manufacturing (CAD/CAM) and layer-by-layer printing, virtual designs are transformed into the intended physical products.

    In a modern workshop, dozens of industrial printers work in an orderly manner, and a laser engraver with an accuracy of 0.01 mm creates patterns in titanium powder.

    Customized titanium plates for maxillofacial surgery are printed in a matter of hours. This seemingly ordinary industrial scene reflects China’s significant progress in high-precision, intelligent manufacturing of medical devices.

    Compared to manual plate bending in the past, 3D printing provides more accurate, convenient and safer production of customized products.

    “We are currently working on a custom order for a patient in Singapore. Engineers upload the patient’s data into the system, and AI algorithms help designers create personalized models for facial reconstruction, which are then printed entirely on metal 3D printers,” said Gao Bancui, marketing director at Chengdu Tianqi Additive Intelligent Manufacturing.

    He added that in the future, the company will focus on serving countries in the Middle East, Africa and Southeast Asia to meet the individual medical needs of more countries along the Belt and Road Initiative. -0-

    MIL OSI Russia News –

  • MIL-OSI: C&D Inc. Shares Three Key Experiences to Help Chinese Enterprises Navigate Global Commodity Risks

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    HANGZHOU, China, June 24, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — As the era of Globalization 3.0 approaches—marked by rising calls for “de-globalization” on one hand, and the vigorous global expansion of Chinese enterprises on the other—the “Born to Be Global” 2nd Global Summit of Chinese Enterprises Going Overseas and 2025 Mid-Year Industry Summit was held at the National University of Singapore from June 19 to 20, 2025.

    Jointly launched by Hangzhou Ba Jiu Ling Cultural Creative Co., Ltd., Jidang Business Studies, and the Sino-Commercial Overseas Industrial Alliance (SCOIA), and co-organized by C&D Inc., the summit brought together over 50 political and business leaders, along with representatives from international business associations and more than 1,000 corporate delegates from China and abroad, to explore the latest trends and opportunities in global expansion.

    As a leading player in the supply chain sector, C&D Inc. was invited to share its insights on using futures instruments to help global enterprises mitigate the risks of commodity price volatility in international markets.

    Li Zhi, General Manager of the Futures Management Department of the Risk Control Center, C&D Inc., delivering a keynote speech at the summit.

    In his speech titled “Proactive Risk Management: Tackling Supply Chain Black Swans,” Li Zhi highlighted the key challenges faced by Chinese enterprises going global. Drawing from historical lessons and innovative practices, he offered a systematic analysis of how futures instruments can play a critical role in stabilizing global supply chains.

    In his presentation, Li Zhi highlighted three core concepts in price risk management: Breakthrough, Exploration, and Transformation.

    Breakthrough: From the “Soybean Incident” to Financial Tool Innovation

    Li Zhi began his speech by revisiting the 2004 “Soybean Incident,” a crisis that shook China’s grain and oil industry. The international soybean market underwent extreme volatility over a six-month period—prices surged and plunged by more than 50%—driven by multiple factors, including the price discovery mechanisms of the Chicago Board of Trade (CBOT). The shock was severe for China’s soybean processing sector, which was highly dependent on imports. “Nearly 1,000 Chinese companies went bankrupt,“ he said, “with 85% of the processing capacity shifting to foreign ownership, resulting in total economic losses exceeded 15 billion yuan (approximately USD 2.1 billion)”.

    The crisis became a catalyst for change. According to Li Zhi, the adoption of futures instruments helped compress the price volatility of soybeans from 1,300 cents to just 210 cents per bushel—an 85% reduction. This has been a key factor in preventing similar crises since the “Soybean Incident.”

    Leveraging futures instruments to effectively manage price volatility has become a critical strategy for enterprises seeking to navigate international markets.

    Exploration: C&D Inc.’s Three Core Practices

    Even today, many Chinese enterprises remain unfamiliar with the use of futures instruments in global markets. Citing data, Li Zhi noted that 98% of Fortune 500 companies utilize financial derivatives for hedging purposes, whereas only about 30% of non-financial listed firms on China’s A-share market do the same.

    With four decades of experience in international operations, C&D Inc. stands out as a leading Chinese enterprise in the strategic use of financial derivatives within the supply chain sector.

    During his speech, Li Zhi shared how C&D Inc. has built an effective framework for using futures instruments, structured around three core pillars: risk control, business operations, and research. He distilled this approach into a guiding principle: “Risk control comes first, business forms the foundation, and research supports the base.”

    Transformation: From Managing Its Own Risks to Empowering Others
    As C&D Inc. has matured in its application of futures instruments, it has progressively integrated its proprietary futures framework into its broader supply chain services. By leveraging these tools, the company has helped over 900 industrial clients build robust risk management shields—enabling stable upstream pricing, consistent midstream margins, and predictable downstream costs.

    As acclaimed Chinese financial commentator Wu Xiaobo observed, “C&D Inc. has transformed its externally driven resource integration capabilities into internally driven service delivery—offering end-to-end support across information, logistics, and finance.”

    As Chinese enterprises embark on this new wave of globalization, it is companies like C&D Inc.—with deep operational experience and robust overseas supply chain capabilities—that must step forward to share their know-how and open up their resources. Only then can Chinese firms expand globally in a more professional, secure, and efficient manner.
    In closing, Li Zhi emphasized, “In this new era of global navigation, only by jointly building a shared risk-bearing mechanism can Chinese enterprises chart a steady course through turbulent global waters and achieve sustainable success.”

    “One struggles alone, but thrives together.” This is not only a recognition of C&D Inc.’s forward-thinking practices, but also a broader call for Chinese enterprises to embrace collective resilience in navigating global risks.

    Organization: Hangzhou Ba Jiu Ling Cultural Creative Co., Ltd

    Contact Person: Daisy Xing

    Website: www.890xsx.com

    Email: xingqian@890media.com

    Disclaimer: This press release is provided by Hangzhou Ba Jiu Ling Cultural Creative Co., Ltd. The statements, views, and opinions expressed are solely those of the provider and do not necessarily reflect those of this media platform or its publisher. Any names or brands mentioned are used for identification purposes only and remain the property of their respective owners. No endorsement or guarantee is made regarding the accuracy, completeness, or reliability of the information presented. This material is for informational purposes only and does not constitute financial, legal, or professional advice. Readers are encouraged to conduct independent research and consult qualified professionals. The publisher is not liable for any losses, damages, or legal issues arising from the use or publication of this content.

    A photo accompanying this announcement is available at https://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/0e91b3b9-e047-44c6-949c-f709ac13fc92

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI: C&D Inc. Shares Three Key Experiences to Help Chinese Enterprises Navigate Global Commodity Risks

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    HANGZHOU, China, June 24, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — As the era of Globalization 3.0 approaches—marked by rising calls for “de-globalization” on one hand, and the vigorous global expansion of Chinese enterprises on the other—the “Born to Be Global” 2nd Global Summit of Chinese Enterprises Going Overseas and 2025 Mid-Year Industry Summit was held at the National University of Singapore from June 19 to 20, 2025.

    Jointly launched by Hangzhou Ba Jiu Ling Cultural Creative Co., Ltd., Jidang Business Studies, and the Sino-Commercial Overseas Industrial Alliance (SCOIA), and co-organized by C&D Inc., the summit brought together over 50 political and business leaders, along with representatives from international business associations and more than 1,000 corporate delegates from China and abroad, to explore the latest trends and opportunities in global expansion.

    As a leading player in the supply chain sector, C&D Inc. was invited to share its insights on using futures instruments to help global enterprises mitigate the risks of commodity price volatility in international markets.

    Li Zhi, General Manager of the Futures Management Department of the Risk Control Center, C&D Inc., delivering a keynote speech at the summit.

    In his speech titled “Proactive Risk Management: Tackling Supply Chain Black Swans,” Li Zhi highlighted the key challenges faced by Chinese enterprises going global. Drawing from historical lessons and innovative practices, he offered a systematic analysis of how futures instruments can play a critical role in stabilizing global supply chains.

    In his presentation, Li Zhi highlighted three core concepts in price risk management: Breakthrough, Exploration, and Transformation.

    Breakthrough: From the “Soybean Incident” to Financial Tool Innovation

    Li Zhi began his speech by revisiting the 2004 “Soybean Incident,” a crisis that shook China’s grain and oil industry. The international soybean market underwent extreme volatility over a six-month period—prices surged and plunged by more than 50%—driven by multiple factors, including the price discovery mechanisms of the Chicago Board of Trade (CBOT). The shock was severe for China’s soybean processing sector, which was highly dependent on imports. “Nearly 1,000 Chinese companies went bankrupt,“ he said, “with 85% of the processing capacity shifting to foreign ownership, resulting in total economic losses exceeded 15 billion yuan (approximately USD 2.1 billion)”.

    The crisis became a catalyst for change. According to Li Zhi, the adoption of futures instruments helped compress the price volatility of soybeans from 1,300 cents to just 210 cents per bushel—an 85% reduction. This has been a key factor in preventing similar crises since the “Soybean Incident.”

    Leveraging futures instruments to effectively manage price volatility has become a critical strategy for enterprises seeking to navigate international markets.

    Exploration: C&D Inc.’s Three Core Practices

    Even today, many Chinese enterprises remain unfamiliar with the use of futures instruments in global markets. Citing data, Li Zhi noted that 98% of Fortune 500 companies utilize financial derivatives for hedging purposes, whereas only about 30% of non-financial listed firms on China’s A-share market do the same.

    With four decades of experience in international operations, C&D Inc. stands out as a leading Chinese enterprise in the strategic use of financial derivatives within the supply chain sector.

    During his speech, Li Zhi shared how C&D Inc. has built an effective framework for using futures instruments, structured around three core pillars: risk control, business operations, and research. He distilled this approach into a guiding principle: “Risk control comes first, business forms the foundation, and research supports the base.”

    Transformation: From Managing Its Own Risks to Empowering Others
    As C&D Inc. has matured in its application of futures instruments, it has progressively integrated its proprietary futures framework into its broader supply chain services. By leveraging these tools, the company has helped over 900 industrial clients build robust risk management shields—enabling stable upstream pricing, consistent midstream margins, and predictable downstream costs.

    As acclaimed Chinese financial commentator Wu Xiaobo observed, “C&D Inc. has transformed its externally driven resource integration capabilities into internally driven service delivery—offering end-to-end support across information, logistics, and finance.”

    As Chinese enterprises embark on this new wave of globalization, it is companies like C&D Inc.—with deep operational experience and robust overseas supply chain capabilities—that must step forward to share their know-how and open up their resources. Only then can Chinese firms expand globally in a more professional, secure, and efficient manner.
    In closing, Li Zhi emphasized, “In this new era of global navigation, only by jointly building a shared risk-bearing mechanism can Chinese enterprises chart a steady course through turbulent global waters and achieve sustainable success.”

    “One struggles alone, but thrives together.” This is not only a recognition of C&D Inc.’s forward-thinking practices, but also a broader call for Chinese enterprises to embrace collective resilience in navigating global risks.

    Organization: Hangzhou Ba Jiu Ling Cultural Creative Co., Ltd

    Contact Person: Daisy Xing

    Website: www.890xsx.com

    Email: xingqian@890media.com

    Disclaimer: This press release is provided by Hangzhou Ba Jiu Ling Cultural Creative Co., Ltd. The statements, views, and opinions expressed are solely those of the provider and do not necessarily reflect those of this media platform or its publisher. Any names or brands mentioned are used for identification purposes only and remain the property of their respective owners. No endorsement or guarantee is made regarding the accuracy, completeness, or reliability of the information presented. This material is for informational purposes only and does not constitute financial, legal, or professional advice. Readers are encouraged to conduct independent research and consult qualified professionals. The publisher is not liable for any losses, damages, or legal issues arising from the use or publication of this content.

    A photo accompanying this announcement is available at https://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/0e91b3b9-e047-44c6-949c-f709ac13fc92

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI Russia: GUU is a leader in the environmental agenda

    Translation. Region: Russian Federal

    Source: State University of Management – Official website of the State –

    The State University of Management won in the special nomination “Agenda Leaders” within the framework of the “University Race” of the youth festival “VuzEcoFest-2025”.

    The 11th youth festival “VuzEcoFest-2025” was held throughout Russia, as well as in Armenia, Uzbekistan and the Republic of Belarus. The State University of Management has been actively participating in it since 2017.

    The team of the EcoClub named after V.I. Vernadsky of the State University of Management held a series of events on environmental topics: a scientific seminar “Climate Change: Adaptation of the University and the Region of Its Presence”, environmental film screenings, the “Kind Chancellery” campaign, an environmental video relay race, a thematic game library and a quiz “Mysteries of Chukotka”. The key event was an excursion to the “Water Museum”, during which participants were able to get acquainted with the history of the water supply system, as well as learn about modern technologies in the field of water supply and sanitation.

    In addition, students of the State University of Management, together with participants from other universities, took part in a survey on attitudes towards climate change. According to the results of the study, 78% of students expressed concern about climate change issues and noted that global warming is a problem.

    “As part of the VuzEcoFest-2025 festival, it was important for us to address issues of adaptation to climate change, including at the level of regions where universities are present. The festival helped to increase the interest of young people in the topic and strengthen the desire to share their ideas and scientific developments,” shared Anastasia Okorochkova, director of the Territory of Sustainable Development ANO.

    The annual international youth festival “VuzEcoFest” is a cultural and educational project to form a community of leaders-mentors and professionals in the field of sustainable development. The project is carried out by the ANO “Territory of Sustainable Development” with the support of the Ministry of Education and Science and the Ministry of Natural Resources of Russia.

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

    MIL OSI Russia News –

  • MIL-OSI China: Paw-some degree: China initiates pet-centric bachelor’s program for surging demand

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

    Paw-some degree: China initiates pet-centric bachelor’s program for surging demand

    A dog is taken care of at the pet waiting lounge of Shenzhen Bao’an International Airport in Shenzhen, south China’s Guangdong Province, May 8, 2024. (Xinhua)

    Fresh from completing China’s rigorous college entrance exam, over 13 million high school graduates applying to university this year are faced with an intriguing academic path: the country’s first bachelor’s program entirely dedicated to pets.

    Launched by the China Agricultural University (CAU), the four-year undergraduate program in companion animal science aims to train experts in pet nutrition, behavior, breeding, and care — meeting both student aspirations and the growing demands of China’s pet industry.

    Unlike traditional animal science programs that concentrate on livestock such as pigs, chickens, cattle and sheep, the companion animal program focuses on pets like cats, dogs and horses. Fifty students will be admitted in the inaugural class. Upon graduation, they will receive a Bachelor of Agricultural Science degree.

    “The curriculum is structured around real-world industry demands,” said Liu Guoshi, vice dean of the College of Animal Science of the CAU. “Courses include companion animal breeding, nutritional metabolism, feed processing, reproductive physiology, animal welfare and behavior studies, among other specialized courses.”

    While the program may sound novel to some, it represents a significant transformation in Chinese higher education — a strategic shift away from traditional, supply-driven offerings toward demand-led disciplines tailored for emerging sectors.

    China’s educational authority has called for dynamic optimization of academic disciplines to ensure alignment with economic priorities. In a notice on graduate employment for 2025, the Ministry of Education (MOE) urged universities to anticipate labor market shifts and accelerate the roll-out of emerging programs.

    China’s pet economy offers a compelling case for this transformation. In 2024, the country’s urban population owned more than 120 million cats and dogs, driving a pet economy worth over 300 billion yuan (around 42 billion U.S. dollars).

    However, the rapid growth of the pet economy has outpaced the supply of trained professionals. While about 500,000 pet-related businesses are now registered in China — ranging from pet food and supplies to grooming, insurance, and behavior training — the sector suffers from acute labor shortages.

    For example, in veterinary care alone, more than 30,000 pet hospitals operate with just 40,000 certified veterinarians. That’s roughly one vet per clinic.

    “The shortage of skilled professionals is one of the biggest constraints on the industry’s healthy development,” said Yan Jinsheng, vice chairman of the China Pet Industry Association. Yan mentioned that nearly every segment, from grooming and health care to behavior training, is experiencing staffing bottlenecks.

    The companion animal science program is designed to address this gap. Graduates will be well-prepared for a wide range of careers — from conventional roles in pet food R&D, breeding operations and veterinary clinics to emerging specialties like pet genetic testing consultants and professional pet behavior trainers.

    Their expertise will also be valued in academic research, government regulatory bodies and industry associations, Liu noted.

    The launch of this new program has sparked lively discussions on social media. On Xiaohongshu, the Chinese platform known overseas as “rednote,” a user named Liuliu joked, “With my dog by my side, I could study all the way to a PhD!”

    This “pet program” exemplifies how Chinese universities are recalibrating curricula to meet real-world demands.

    The strategy builds on proven results: In 2024, the Yunnan Agricultural University launched the country’s first coffee science undergraduate program as domestic consumption skyrocketed — a market that surpassed the United States in 2023 to claim the world’s largest number of coffee outlets.

    This industry-aligned approach is scaling nationwide. In the updated catalog of undergraduate majors for regular colleges and universities released by the MOE in April, newly established programs such as AI education, carbon neutrality science and engineering, and low-altitude technology and engineering have been specifically designed to address the pressing need for skilled professionals in rapidly expanding industries.

    Amid mounting graduate numbers and growing skills mismatches, updating the national catalogue of academic majors has become a key policy tool to better align university programs with industry needs, job demand, and technical standards, thus promoting employment, said Zhang Duanhong, director of the Education Policy Research Center at Tongji University. 

    MIL OSI China News –

  • MIL-OSI China: China races to turn quantum computing into industrial solutions

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

    Wang Jianwei (C), a professor at Peking University, tests an integrated photonic quantum chip with doctoral students Jia Xinyu (L) and Zhai Chonghao in a laboratory of Peking University in Beijing, capital of China, Feb. 18, 2025. (Xinhua)

    In a significant stride toward practical quantum computing, a Chinese startup has successfully deployed its superconducting quantum processor to improve the accuracy of breast cancer screenings, showcasing the technology’s potential to revolutionize medical diagnostics.

    The breakthrough came from Origin Quantum, a Hefei-based startup, which harnessed the parallel processing power of its “Origin Wukong” quantum computer to analyze medical images with unprecedented speed.

    This pioneering work is indicative of China’s growing capability in translating quantum computing advancement into practical solutions. In an ambitious drive, the nation seeks to foster an industrial ecosystem of the future amid the global quantum computing race.

    The Chinese government work report early this year called for the establishment of a growth mechanism for investment in future industries, including quantum technology, bio-manufacturing, embodied intelligence and 6G.

    The national policy guideline spurred a swift market response with entities transforming frontier, lab-based research into operational technologies with tangible impact.

    By tapping into the unique strengths of quantum technology, Origin Quantum’s innovative approach in processing medical imaging data, developed in collaboration with Bengbu Medical University, resulted in a dramatic reduction of misdiagnosis and missed cases.

    “The system enhances mammogram screening accuracy on current noisy intermediate-scale quantum computers, enabling high-precision and rapid classification of both healthy images and lesion malignancy,” said Xie Zongyu, a physician from the university’s First Affiliated Hospital.

    “Our ultimate goal is to establish a quantum intelligent diagnostic system,” Xie added.

    REAL-WORLD USES

    In March, a team of Chinese scientists unveiled Zuchongzhi 3.0, a 105-qubit superconducting quantum processor prototype with speed gains in the quadrillions over leading supercomputers for one specific task, showcasing capabilities that surpass those of classical supercomputers.

    However, lab advances like this remain niche demonstrations with minimal real-world impact. Over the coming five years, global quantum scientists are aiming to pinpoint a handful of practical quantum applications — like quantum chemistry and drug discovery, now largely bolstered by supercomputers and AI algorithms.

    A growing number of Chinese tech companies, including Origin Quantum, are gearing up to make their mark in this field.

    “Computational chemistry can partly predict interactions between drug molecules and target proteins. But classical computers have difficulty in accurately predicting complex large molecules,” said Guo Guoping, chief scientist of Origin Quantum that launched the molecular docking software QDock.

    “In theory, quantum computers can screen potential compounds and simulate complex reactions to break the computational bottleneck in drug discovery,” Guo added.

    AceMapAI, a Suzhou-based biotech company, is working with partners including Tencent Quantum Lab to explore the potential of quantum computing in drug molecular dynamics simulation, and drug screening and optimization.

    Zhao Xuejiao, deputy director of Anhui Quantum Computing Engineering Research Center, said that the complex computational problems in China’s biopharmaceutical industry will provide a broad application scope for quantum computing.

    A Shanghai-based startup is also experimenting with applying quantum algorithms to the massive computations in smart cities.

    TuringQ introduced this month a quantum-inspired solution for Autonomous Valet Parking (AVP) that significantly reduces parking wait time and enhances efficiency.

    AVP is capable of autonomously navigating routes and parking accurately.

    The firm’s solution has already been deployed in a large commercial parking lot.

    The algorithm cuts the average customer search time from 19.8 minutes under traditional manual scheduling to about 5.5 minutes when the parking space vacancy rate is only 5 percent.

    The application of quantum algorithms in the financial sector has become a significant area. Beijing Quantum firm QBoson, the Postal Savings Bank of China and China Mobile jointly designed a quantum algorithm-based bank teller scheduling solution.

    QBoson’s quantum computer conducted a full search of the extremely large solution space and found the global optimum within milliseconds.

    “Quantum computing companies design algorithms based on feedback from those with computational bottlenecks before testing them on quantum machines,” said Dou Mengan, vice president of Origin Quantum. “This model creates a sustainable industrial ecosystem.”

    ENTREPRENEURIAL ZEAL

    On a road in Hefei, Anhui Province, which is dubbed “Quantum Avenue,” dozens of quantum tech firms, including Origin Quantum, cluster along this compact stretch. In Shanghai and Beijing, the number of companies investing in this track is also on the rise.

    CCID Consulting’s research shows that China’s quantum computing firms increased from 93 in 2023 to 153 in 2024, a rise of nearly 40 percent.

    The country’s quantum computing industry scale will keep rising swiftly to 11.56 billion yuan (1.61 billion U.S. dollars) by 2025, maintaining an annual growth rate of over 30 percent, according to CCID Consulting.

    In 2023 and 2024, the total R&D expenditure in quantum computing exceeded 100 percent of the total revenue, indicating that companies in the sector have entered a period of active development.

    China’s quantum engineers are exploring multiple technological routes: Origin Quantum focuses on superconducting, TuringQ and QBoson on photonic quantum computing, and Hyqubit from Beijing on ion traps.

    Now, in early development of quantum computing, the front-runners and best technical approaches have not yet been consolidated, meaning “any country that is able to deploy quantum tech first will have a first-mover advantage,” according to a report published by the Mercator Institute for China Studies last December.

    China has built a full industrial chain ecosystem in quantum computing, covering quantum chip design and production, quantum computer manufacturing, quantum algorithm development and industry solutions, said Zhao.

    Cutting-edge attempts also include integrating quantum computing with generative AI. In April, Origin Quantum successfully fine-tuned a billion-parameter AI model on its quantum computer Origin Wukong, marking the first real-world application of quantum computing in large-model tasks.

    “In the past five years, the surge of generative AI has brought about many disruptive changes in computing models,” said Sun Xiaoming, a researcher at the Institute of Computing Technology under the Chinese Academy of Sciences.

    “In the next five years, quantum computing is likely to move from labs to applications, and the integration of AI and quantum computing is expected to become a trend,” added Sun. 

    MIL OSI China News –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: UK Government supports research into Ukraine soil pollution 

    Source: United Kingdom – Executive Government & Departments

    News story

    UK Government supports research into Ukraine soil pollution 

    Royal Agricultural University to benefit from Defra funding to research the impacts of pollution on Ukraine’s arable soil due to the war with Russia.

    New research into the impacts of war on Ukraine’s farmland is set to launch with £500,000 funding from Defra to the Royal Agricultural University.

    Farming Minister Daniel Zeichner today set out how this research will support Ukraine’s farmers – guardians of the breadbasket of Europe. The research will fund UK researchers to analyse the impact of the war on Ukrainian soil, establish bespoke facilities in Ukrainian laboratories, and train specialists in Ukraine.  

    Soil pollution caused by Russia’s illegal invasion is a pressing issue for Ukraine. Ukraine’s farmland has suffered significant damage from Russian bombardments and other war-related toxic pollutants, as heavy metals and chemicals are leached into the earth, leading to the degradation of soil health.  This damage to Ukraine’s soil presents real, and potentially long term, risks to the food production, yields and farmer safety.    

    This research is vital to understanding the impacts of this pollution, as well as potential solutions. It is crucial to help develop Ukraine’s capacity to analyse and address soil health in the long term, strengthening the food security of Ukraine and in turn global food security.       

    Daniel Zeichner, Minister for Food Security and Rural Affairs, said:    

    The UK’s support for Ukraine is ironclad.   

    This research is vital, helping Ukraine in understanding the impact the pollution from war has had on its soils and give them vital tools to recover farmland.  

    This funding forms part of our commitment in 100-year partnership with Ukraine to stand shoulder-to-shoulder with their farmers to deliver food production and environmental protection for the nation. 

    Professor Mark Horton, Pro Vice-Chancellor for Research and Enterprise at the Royal Agricultural University, said:  

    The war in Ukraine has severely damaged soil health across bombarded agricultural regions, threatening future food production and the country’s long-term recovery. This research will enhance Ukraine’s capacity to restore and manage its soils, laying an early groundwork for a more resilient, productive, and sustainable agriculture.  

    With this funding, the Royal Agricultural University will work closely with our Ukrainian partners to train local experts, establish state-of-the-art soil laboratories, and analyse thousands of soil samples across key farming regions.   

    These efforts are essential to building the tools and capacity Ukraine needs to safeguard its soil, ensure food security, and support national regeneration.

    The Royal Agricultural University will work with Ukraine’s Sumy National Agrarian University in training experts in the country, establishing soil analysis functions in laboratories, and analysing over 8,000 soil samples across five regions, including Sumy and Kherson.   

    This funding follows the launch of the UK’s Grain Verification Scheme, announced earlier this year alongside the 100 Year Partnership, to help track grain stolen from occupied areas of Ukraine.

    Updates to this page

    Published 24 June 2025

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –