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Category: Universities

  • MIL-OSI Russia: Victor Yakovlev: “Robots and “Omnivores” are in first place for me”

    Translation. Region: Russian Federal

    Source: Peter the Great St. Petersburg Polytechnic University –

    An important disclaimer is at the bottom of this article.

    The new hero of the “Person” section is Viktor Yakovlev, a graduate of the Higher School of Automation and Robotics of the Institute of Mechanical Engineering, Materials and Transport. He currently works as an administrator of the Center for Youth Trajectories at SPbPU. He is also the captain of the “Omnivorous” team, the bronze medalist of the international championship “Battle of Robots”.

    Victor spoke about how his childhood passion for 3D modeling grew into creating his own robots and participating in international competitions, and, what’s more, led him to the Polytechnic University, about books and hobbies.interview with the newspaper “Polytechnic”.

    Please note: This information is raw content obtained directly from the source of the information. It is an accurate report of what the source claims and does not necessarily reflect the position of MIL-OSI or its clients.

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    MIL OSI Russia News –

  • MIL-OSI Russia: Rosneft Contributes to Study of Russia’s Wild Reindeer

    Translation. Region: Russian Federal

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

    On August 2, Russia celebrates Reindeer Day, a holiday dedicated to reindeer and reindeer herding. Rosneft makes a significant contribution to the study and conservation of the population of these animals in the Russian Federation.

    Wild reindeer are a vital link in Arctic ecosystems. Since 2014, the company has been studying the reindeer population in the Krasnoyarsk Territory, in the territories of Evenkia and the Taimyr Peninsula. Large-scale ground and aerial surveys of the animals are conducted annually. Using satellite tags installed on the reindeer, scientists have tracked the annual migration cycle for the first time, and also identified seasonal behavior patterns.

    In 2025, as part of the Tamura corporate environmental program, a new research expedition to study wild reindeer was launched in Western Taimyr. Field work is being conducted by scientists from the Siberian Federal University (SFU). The first group of specialists will travel along the Khatanga River and the upper section of the Kheta River. The total length of the boat routes will be more than 700 km. The second part of the scientific expedition started from Norilsk. Scientists plan to travel by boat along the Pyasina, Dudypta, Tareya, and Pura rivers. Based on the results of the work, the number of reindeer in Western Taimyr and their migration routes will be determined.

    In 2024, as part of the Tamura program, scientists from SFU and Taimyr reserves also conducted a comprehensive census of the number and migration of animals to update data on the state of the Taimyr-Evenki population.

    For many years, the East Siberian Oil and Gas Company (ESOG, part of Rosneft) together with SFU have been implementing the Evenki Deer project. Scientists track the movements, numbers, and habitat characteristics of wild deer in the region. For people living in the taiga and tundra, deer are an important part of their everyday life and culture.

    VSNK also supports research into musk deer, a small deer-like animal rare for Evenkia that lives in Siberia and the Far East. Their secretive lifestyle and size (up to 70 cm at the withers) make them almost invisible. These even-toed ungulates are listed in the Red Book of several regions of Russia and the Red List of the International Union for Conservation of Nature as a vulnerable species. Scientists have conducted work to find musk deer habitats in Evenkia. During the research, their presence was confirmed in an area that was previously considered unsuitable for this rare deer species, and the population size was estimated – it currently stands at 300 individuals.

    As part of the forest reindeer research with the support of RN-Uvatneftegaz (part of the Company’s oil production complex), scientists from the Tobolsk Scientific Station of the Ural Branch of the Russian Academy of Sciences carried out large-scale work in the Kunyaksky Reserve. Based on the results of aerial monitoring, which covered almost 60 thousand hectares, over 100 thousand images were obtained to clarify the reindeer population. The environmental program of RN-Uvatneftegaz is of great practical importance for the Tyumen Region – forest reindeer research has not been conducted in the region for more than 20 years.

    Thanks to the grant support of RN-Vankor (part of the oil production complex of NK Rosneft), SFU scientists have created a teaching aid, Wild Reindeer of Taimyr. The project is aimed at developing scientifically based strategies for the rational use and conservation of a key species-bioindicator of Arctic ecosystems. The aid systematizes extensive data obtained as a result of field and office studies.

    Reference:

    Rosneft pays special attention to environmental issues and biodiversity conservation, implementing the largest comprehensive Arctic region study program since Soviet times. The new Tamura research program, which started in 2024, is designed to update information on the state of key animal species living in the north of Krasnoyarsk Krai. The Tamura program includes studying the Kara subpopulation of polar bears, wild reindeer populations, valuable bird and fish species in the Yenisei estuary. Three expeditions to study the Kara subpopulation of polar bears have already taken place in 2025. In total, ten expeditions will be held in four years.

    Department of Information and AdvertisingPJSC NK RosneftAugust 1, 2025

    Please note: This information is raw content obtained directly from the source of the information. It is an accurate report of what the source claims and does not necessarily reflect the position of MIL-OSI or its clients.

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    MIL OSI Russia News –

  • MIL-OSI: Heilind Electronics Announces Retirement of Asia President William Sim and Appointment of Charles Tan as Successor

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    WILMINGTON, Mass., Aug. 01, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Heilind Electronics, a leading distributor of interconnect, electromechanical, and sensor solutions, is pleased to announce the retirement of William Sim, President of Heilind Asia, effective July 15, 2025. Sim has been a cornerstone of Heilind’s international expansion for over a decade, playing a pivotal role in establishing the company’s footprint and reputation throughout the Asia Pacific region.

    Charles Tan has been hired to succeed Sim as President of Heilind Asia, effective immediately. Tan joins Heilind from Future Electronics where he served as Managing Director for Greater China. With 12 years of executive leadership experience across Asia, Tan brings a proven track record in scaling complex distribution businesses and driving growth in high-performance markets.

    Tan holds a Bachelor of Science in Telecommunications Engineering from Shanghai University of Technology, a Master’s degree in Economics from Fudan University, and an MBA from McGill University.

    “William Sim’s leadership was instrumental in transforming Heilind into a truly global distributor,” said Robert Clapp, President & CEO at Heilind Electronics. “We thank him for his vision, discipline, and commitment to excellence. We are equally confident in Charles Tan’s ability to lead the Asia team with integrity and boldness as we move into our next chapter.”

    This leadership transition marks a key milestone in Heilind’s global growth strategy and underscores the company’s ongoing investment in regional talent, infrastructure, and customer relationships throughout Asia.

    About Heilind Electronics

    Heilind Electronics, Inc. (https://www.heilind.com) is one of the world’s leading distributors of connectors, relays, sensors, switches, thermal management and circuit protection products, terminal blocks, wire and cable, wiring accessories, and insulation and identification products. Founded in 1974, Heilind has locations throughout the U.S., Canada, Mexico, Brazil, Germany, Singapore, Hong Kong, and China.

    For media inquiries, please contact:

    David P. Warren, Director of Global Marketing

    Heilind Electronics

    dwarren@heilind.com

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Appointment of Churches Conservation Trust members: 1 August 2025

    Source: United Kingdom – Government Statements

    Press release

    Appointment of Churches Conservation Trust members: 1 August 2025

    The King has approved the nomination of Trustees of the Board of the Churches Conservation Trust.

    The King has approved the nomination of Bishop Andrew Rumsey, Dr Ingrid Samuel OBE, Lord (Stephen) Parkinson of Whitley Bay, Michael Bithell JP, Vivienne King and Reverend Canon Timothy Goode.

    Andrew Rumsey read history at the University of Reading before training for ordination at Ridley Hall, Cambridge and doctoral studies at King’s College, London. Ordained in 1997, he has held a variety of parish posts in London and Southwark and was appointed Suffragan Bishop of Ramsbury in 2018. Andrew is the joint National Church of England Lead for Church and Cathedral Buildings, and is a writer, musician and champion for Anglican heritage.

    Dr Ingrid Helene Samuel OBE was educated at McGill University, Canada, obtaining BA in History, she then gained a M Litt and PhD in Modern History at Jesus College, Cambridge. In 2004 Ingrid was Head of Culture for the London Olympic Bid and between 2005 – 2011 has held several roles in the Department for Culture, Media and Sport including Head of Properties and Ceremonial Branch, Head of Heritage, and Head of Heritage and Architecture. Additionally, in 2011 she took up the role of Placemaking and Heritage Director with the National Trust.

    Lord Parkinson of Whitley Bay was educated at Emmanuel College, Cambridge, obtaining an MA in History. From 2021-2024 Stephen was Parliamentary Under-Secretary of State, Department for Culture, Media & Sport, and previously was Political Secretary to the Prime Minister and Special Adviser to the Home Secretary.

    Michael Bithell JP was educated at Magdalen College, Oxford, completing a MA in Engineering Science and post-graduate studies in Manufacture and Management at Cambridge University. Now retired, Michael was Group Finance Director of United Westminster and Grey Coat Foundation from 2015 to 2022. Previously, he worked for Deloitte LLP for 23 years, as Director, National Quality & Risk; and Director, Corporate Finance Government & Infrastructure. He has a number of voluntary and non-executive positions, including as a member of London Diocesan Synod, Finance Committee and Non-Property Investment Committee, as a Magistrate and an Honorary Steward of Westminster Abbey.

    Vivienne King was educated at Keele University obtaining a BSoc Sci in Law and Politics in 1983, subsequently completing a Legal Practice Course at the College of Law in 1985. In 2010 and 2012 she completed a Corporate Finance Programme with Cranfield University and in 2021 undertook Business Sustainability Management with the University of Cambridge Institute for Sustainability Leadership. After seven years as Real Estate Associate with Herbert Smith Freehills, Vivienne joined The Crown Estate in 1994 as a Senior Solicitor and was subsequently Director of Business Operations & General Counsel. She was CEO of the Soho Housing Association from 2016 to 2020, CEO of Revo and then Head of Real Estate Social Impact at The Good Economy. In March 2024 Vivienne founded Impactful Places, an independent sustainability consultancy.

    Timothy Goode has been the Canon for Congregational Discipleship and Nurture at York Minster since September 2023. Previously he was Rector of St Margaret’s Lee in South East London, and a member of General Synod and Archbishops’ Council. Tim is a member of the National Disability Task Group, which advises the Archbishops of Canterbury and York on disability issues and he led the first debate on disability at the General Synod in July 2022. Tim was a secondary school teacher at the Roehampton Institute and Director of Music of Homefield School from 1995-2007. He trained for ministry at Ripon College Cuddesdon and served his title at Croydon Minster, in the Diocese of Southwark and was ordained priest in 2010. From September 2012 to May 2018, he was Team Vicar of St Luke’s Whyteleafe and St Peter and St Paul, Chaldon, part of the Caterham Team ministry. From 2013 to 2021 he was additionally the Southwark Diocesan Disability Advisor. Tim was made an Honorary Canon of Southwark Cathedral in September 2020 and has been a trustee of the Churches Conservation Trust since November 2020. He has now been re-appointed in the role for a second term until October 2028.

    Updates to this page

    Published 1 August 2025

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI Africa: Government welcomes renewable energy investments initiative 

    Source: Government of South Africa

    The Minister of Forestry, Fisheries and the Environment, Dr Dion George, has applauded the launch of a research project investigating how private renewable energy investments in South Africa contribute to equitable social development.

    “Projects like Communities and the Private Renewable Energy Sector: Distributing Social Development Benefits in South Africa (COM-PRES),which support South Africa’s Renewable Energy Independent Power Producer Procurement Programme (REIPPPP), are not only welcome, but are encouraged as the knowledge that will be generated will contribute to driving innovation and investment that bolsters South Africa’s renewable energy capacity,” George said on Friday.

    COM-PRES is a four-and-a-half-year research project, which was launched on 31 July 2025, led by Danish-based social researcher, Dr Marianne S. Ulriksen from the University of Southern Denmark. 

    It will be implemented locally, in partnership with the Centre for Social Development in Africa, at the University of Johannesburg and the Centre for Social Science Research at the University of Cape Town.

    The South African government strongly focuses on integrating renewable energy projects with social development initiatives, particularly through the REIPPPP, which is also part of the country’s ambitious just energy transition agenda.

    “COM-PRES aims to understand how private-sector renewable energy projects can address inequality in affected and surrounding South African communities through novel mandatory community trusts and social development interventions,” Ulriksen said.

    According to Ulriksen, the knowledge and ideas generated at the community level – working collaboratively with community members, local stakeholders and independent power producers – will feed back to national stakeholders, with the aim of providing practical recommendations for designing and managing renewable energy investments to enhance socio-economic outcomes and relations between communities, the industry and government.

    “South Africa can develop a resilient, inclusive, and environmentally sustainable energy sector that also supports our efforts to drive sustainable economic growth, job creation and poverty reduction,” the Minister said. – SAnews.gov.za

    MIL OSI Africa –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Extremists use gaming platforms to recruit – study

    Source: Anglia Ruskin University

    New research published in the journal Frontiers in Psychology reveals how extremist groups are exploiting the popularity of video games to recruit and radicalise impressionable users.

    The study shows that gaming-adjacent platforms, which allow users to chat and live stream while playing, are being used as “digital playgrounds” for extremist activity and that video game players are being deliberately “funnelled” by extremists from mainstream social media platforms to these sites, in part because of the challenges faced in moderating them.

    The research was carried out by Dr William Allchorn and Dr Elisa Orofino, senior research fellows at Anglia Ruskin University’s International Policing and Public Protection Research Institute (IPPPRI), and includes interviews with platform content moderators, tech industry experts and those involved in preventing and countering violent extremism.

    It found that far-right extremism is the most common ideology shared on these gaming-adjacent platforms. This includes content promoting white supremacy, neo-Nazism and anti-Semitism, often accompanied by misogyny, racism, homophobia and conspiracy theories, including references to QAnon.

    Islamist extremism was also reported, though less frequently, alongside “extremist-adjacent” material such as the glorification of school shootings – all content that violates the terms of service of mainstream platforms but often evades detection.

    The study explains that hyper-masculine gaming titles, such as first-person shooter games, have particular appeal to extremists, and highlights how the unique nature of online gaming brings together strangers with a common interest.

    After initial contact, funnelling takes place where interactions move to the less regulated gaming-adjacent platforms, providing an environment where extremists can socialise, share propaganda and subtly recruit.

    One interviewee in the study explained how grooming might start: “That’s where you have matchmaking. It’s where you can build quick rapport with people. But that’s the stuff that very quickly moves to adjacent platforms, where there’s sort of less monitoring.”

    A recurring concern among participants was the danger of younger users coming under the influence of extremist influencers, who combined streaming live game play with extremist narratives.

    Participants highlighted that law enforcement need to better understand how these platforms and their subcultures operate, and also emphasised the importance of educating parents, teachers and children about the risks of online radicalisation.

    Moderators who took part in the study expressed frustration at inconsistent enforcement policies on their platforms and the burden of deciding whether content or users should be reported to local law enforcement agencies.

    In-game chat is unmoderated, but the moderators still report being overwhelmed by the volume and complexity of harmful content, including the use of hidden symbols often used to circumvent banned words.

    AI tools are being used to assist with moderation, but they struggle to interpret memes or when language is ambiguous or sarcastic. Phrases such as “I’m going to kill you” may be common in gameplay, but difficult for automated systems to interpret in context.

    “These gaming-adjacent platforms offer extremists direct access to large, often young and impressionable audiences and they have become a key tool for extremist recruitment.

    “Social media platforms have attracted most of the attention of lawmakers and regulators over the last decade, but these platforms have largely flown under the radar, while at the same time becoming digital playgrounds for extremists to exploit.

    “The nature of radicalisation and the dissemination of extremist content is not confined to any single platform and our research identified a widespread lack of effective detection and reporting tools.

    “Many users don’t know how to report extremist content, and even when they do, they often feel their concerns aren’t taken seriously. Strengthening moderation systems, both AI and human, is essential, as is updating platform policies to address content that is harmful but technically lawful. Decisive action works and platforms can be doing more to help curb the spread of extremism.”

    Dr William Allchorn, Senior Research Fellow at Anglia Ruskin University (ARU)

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI Russia: The Polytechnic University summed up the results of the competition “Best Teacher in the Eyes of Students-2025”

    Translation. Region: Russian Federal

    Source: Peter the Great St. Petersburg Polytechnic University –

    An important disclaimer is at the bottom of this article.

    At the initiative of the student community, the Polytechnic University traditionally held the “Best Teacher through the Eyes of Students” competition from June 5 to July 12.

    The competition has been held at the university since 2021 and this year it celebrated a small anniversary – five years. As usual, students nominate teachers for participation in the competition who, from their point of view, best meet such approved criteria as “Personal interest in the subject”, “Openness to everything new”, “Pedagogical excellence”, “Culture of interaction with students”, “Commitment to the traditions of the Polytechnic University”, etc. However, this year, only graduating students who received their diplomas this year could vote for teachers. For each of the nine criteria of the competitive selection, the students had to nominate only one teacher.

    “Our university is changing, and the rules for the “Best Teacher in the Eyes of Students” competition are changing along with it,” explained SPbPU Vice-Rector for Educational Activities Lyudmila Pankova. “In this anniversary year for the competition, it was important for us to find out which teachers remain in the hearts of graduates leaving the university on their way to a new, big life.”

    Perhaps the most important change in the rules of the competition was that student voting was transferred to the Telegram bot “Digital Pelican” of the Trade Union of Students of SPbPU.

    “We think it is important that our students have taken responsibility not only for developing the evaluation criteria for the competition, but also for its implementation,” noted Elena Zima, Director of the Education Quality Center. “This significant step in improving the competition procedure will increase the university students’ confidence in the competition results and their involvement, which will undoubtedly contribute to improving the overall culture of education quality at the Polytechnic.”

    494 Polytechnic graduates took part in the voting. The winners and prize winners were 10 teachers from seven institutes: GI, IBSiB, IKNK, IPMEiT, IFiM, IFKSiT, IE. All of them will receive cash prizes. The results of the competition are also taken into account in the rating of the faculty. The award ceremony for teachers will traditionally take place on Knowledge Day, September 1.

    The winners of the competition in the nomination “Best of the Best” were:

    Anton Pavlovich Shaban (IPMEiT); Sergey Aleksandrovich Vazhnov (IE); Elmira Alyarovna Nazarova (IPMEiT).

    Full list of winners and prize winners of the competition posted on the website of the Center for Education Quality.

    Congratulations to the winners! We wish you creative success, new discoveries and new victories!

    Please note: This information is raw content obtained directly from the source of the information. It is an accurate report of what the source claims and does not necessarily reflect the position of MIL-OSI or its clients.

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    MIL OSI Russia News –

  • Vice Admiral CR Praveen Nair assumes charge as Controller Personnel Services

    Source: Government of India

    Source: Government of India (4)

    Vice Admiral CR Praveen Nair, AVSM, NM, has assumed charge as the Controller Personnel Services (CPS) at the Indian Navy on July 31. On taking over the new responsibility, the senior officer paid homage at the National War Memorial in New Delhi, honouring the sacrifices of India’s brave soldiers.

    Commissioned into the Indian Navy on July 1, 1991, Vice Admiral Nair is a specialist in Communications and Electronic Warfare. Over his distinguished career spanning more than three decades, he has held several key command, operational, and staff appointments.

    A Surface Warfare Officer, the Flag Officer’s sea tenures include service on INS Krishna, INS Kora, and INS Mysore. He has served as Fleet Electronic Warfare Officer and later as Fleet Communications Officer of the Western Fleet, during which he was awarded the Chief of the Naval Staff commendation for his contribution to the non-combatant evacuation of Indian nationals from Beirut during the Israel-Lebanon conflict in July 2006.

    Vice Admiral Nair has commanded INS Kirch (Missile Corvette), INS Chennai (Guided Missile Destroyer), and INS Vikramaditya (Aircraft Carrier). He has also served in various important shore appointments, including as Directing Staff at the Naval War College, Goa, Officer-in-Charge at Signal School, and Commodore (Personnel) at the Directorate of Personnel, Naval Headquarters. He was also a member of the Indian Naval Strategic and Operational Council (INSOC), the Indian Navy’s think tank.

    An alumnus of the Defence Services Staff College, Wellington, and the US Naval War College, Newport, USA, Vice Admiral Nair has been the recipient of several prestigious international awards, including the Robert E. Bateman International Award, Vice Admiral James H. Doyle Military Operations and International Law Prize, and the International Leadership Prize. He holds an M.Phil. in Defence and Strategic Studies from Mumbai University.

    He was awarded the Nao Sena Medal (Devotion to Duty) in 2000 and the Ati Vishisht Seva Medal in January 2025.

    Upon promotion to Flag rank, Vice Admiral Nair served as Assistant Chief of the Naval Staff (Policy and Plans), where he played a pivotal role in formulating the Maritime Capability Perspective Plan (MCPP 2022–37) and Maritime Infrastructure Perspective Plan (MIPP 2022–37). He subsequently commanded the Western Fleet in 2023–24 and led Operation Sankalp to safeguard India’s maritime interests in the region.

    Before assuming his current post, he served as the Commandant of the Indian Naval Academy.

  • Lt Gen Pushpendra Singh assumes charge as Vice Chief of Army Staff

    Source: Government of India

    Source: Government of India (4)

    Lieutenant General Pushpendra Singh has taken over as the Vice Chief of the Army Staff. He assumed the new responsibility on July 31, 2025, following his tenure as Director General Operational Logistics & Strategic Movement at the Army Headquarters.

    Commissioned into the 4th Battalion of the Parachute Regiment (Special Forces) in December 1987, Lt Gen Pushpendra Singh brings with him over 38 years of rich experience in operational and strategic roles across the Indian Army.

    An alumnus of La Martiniere College, Lucknow University, and the Indian Military Academy, Dehradun, the General Officer has served in several key operations including OP PAWAN, OP MEGHDOOT, OP ORCHID, and multiple tenures in OP RAKSHAK.

    He has commanded a Special Forces unit in the Kashmir Valley and along the Line of Control, an Infantry Brigade, and a Mountain Division during OP SNOW LEOPARD along the Line of Actual Control. He also served as the General Officer Commanding (GOC) of a Corps based in Himachal Pradesh, responsible for sensitive areas including Jammu, Samba, and Pathankot.

    Lt Gen Singh has undergone extensive training during his career, including the Staff Course at DSSC Wellington, Higher Defence Management Course at CDM Secunderabad, and the Advance Professional Programme in Public Administration at IIPA. He holds a Master’s in Management Studies from Osmania University and a Master’s in Philosophy from Punjab University.

    In recognition of his exemplary service, he has been decorated with the Ati Vishisht Seva Medal and a Bar to the Sena Medal.

     

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: LCSD to present lecture series “Shanghai, Shanghai – A Reminiscence of Chinese Pop”

    Source: Hong Kong Government special administrative region – 4

         The Leisure and Cultural Services Department will launch a lecture series entitled “Shanghai, Shanghai – A Reminiscence of Chinese Pop” from October to November. The six-lecture series, curated and hosted by Dr Jim Chang, will take audiences to revisit the Chinese popular songs (or “shidaiqu”) that emerged and flourished in Shanghai from the 1920s to 1940s and remain popular nowadays, along with their iconic figures, through concise and easily comprehensible explanations. Accompanied by classic song sharing, the programme will also elaborate on the cultural ties between Shanghai and Hong Kong’s popular music scenes. 

         Details of each lecture are as follows:

    Lecture 1: Li Jinhui and the “Minyue Concert”
    ——————————————————–
    Date: October 21 (Tuesday)

         Li Jinhui, hailed as the “Father of Chinese Popular Music”, introduced a novel genre of “sinofied jazz” to China and composed “Drizzle” (or “Mao Mao Yu”), which has been described as “the first Chinese popular song”. He also established the song and dance troupe Minyue Concert, which became a cradle for a generation of musical and cinematic stars. The speaker will introduce this great musician and his troupe, and explore their influences on the creation and development of Chinese popular music. 

    Lecture 2: Li Jinguang and his “Tuberose”
    ———————————————
    Date: October 28 (Tuesday)

         The “Tuberose”, composed and written by Li Jinguang, renowned as the “King of Song”, and originally sung by Li Hsiang-lan, has become a timeless hit across China and beyond with its ethereal melodies. Famous singers, including Teresa Teng, have covered this classic. The speaker will guide the audience through the fascinating origins of this evergreen masterpiece.  

    Lecture 3: The Romance of Chen Gexin
    ———————————————
    Date: November 4 (Tuesday)

         Chen Gexin, renowned Shanghai composer-lyricist, created timeless classics including “Rose, Rose, I love You”, “Everlasting Smile”, “Shanghai By Night”, “Gong Xi Gong Xi”, and more. The speaker will lead audiences to look back at the life of the “Immortal of Song”, whose brief 40-year lifespan left an indelible mark on old Shanghai’s popular music scene. 

    Lecture 4: Engrossing Shanghai Tunes
    ———————————————
    Date: November 11 (Tuesday)

         In the early 20th century, Shanghai’s music scene groomed countless renowned artists, laying the foundation for a distinguished style named “Hai pai” (Shanghai-style) in the new era. By the 1940s, artists from different backgrounds, such as the Li (Li Jinhui) School, academic schools and the Japanese War of Resistance composers, together made contributions to create a glorious decade for the popular music of old Shanghai. In this lecture, the speaker will give an overview of the music development of this period, and introduce several beloved masterpieces. 

    Lecture 5: The Gorgeous Li Hsiang-lan
    ———————————————–
    Date: November 19 (Wednesday)

         Coloratura soprano Li Hsiang-lan was one of the Shanghai’s “seven great singing queens” in the 1940s. Her family background, identity and growth experiences made her life truly legendary. The speaker will guide audiences to walk through the first half of the extraordinary journey of her life as a “beauty among beauties”, and to appreciate her alluring voice back in the old Shanghai period. 

    Lecture 6: A Tale of Two Cities
    ———————————————
    Date: November 25 (Tuesday)

         In the 1940s and 1950s, many Shanghai entrepreneurs, intellectuals and musicians moved to Hong Kong, including famous composers Li Houxiang, Yao Min, and Wang Fu-ling, bringing along the Shanghai soundscape to the city. The speaker will explore their profound impact on the development of Hong Kong’s popular music culture. 

         Dr Chang joined the Hong Kong Chinese Orchestra as a sheng musician after graduation from university. He has been the President of the Hong Kong Library Association, and retired as the Chief Librarian of the Hong Kong Central Library. Dr Chang is currently a part-time lecturer in the Academy of Music of Hong Kong Baptist University and the Honorary Artist-in-Residence in the Department of Cultural and Creative Arts of the Education University of Hong Kong. 

         All lectures will be conducted in Cantonese and will start at 7.30pm in AC2, Level 4, Administration Building, Hong Kong Cultural Centre. Each lecture will run for about one hour and 30 minutes. Tickets priced at $80 (for each lecture, with free seating) are now available at URBTIX (www.urbtix.hk). For telephone bookings and concessionary schemes, please call 3166 1288. For programme enquiries, please call 2268 7321 or visit www.lcsd.gov.hk/CE/CulturalService/Programme/en/music/programs_1877.html.

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-OSI Africa: Parliament Approves land sublease for Kabale University expansion

    Source: APO


    .

    Parliament has approved a motion allowing Kabale Regional Referral Hospital sublease five acres of land to Kabale University, clearing the way for the university to expand its Faculty of Medicine.

    The Minister of Health, Ruth Aceng presented the proposal during the plenary sitting of Thursday, 31 July 2025.

    Kabale University made the request in August 2022.

    The university aims to build new teaching and medical facilities, including specialized clinics, patient wards, lecture halls and operating rooms.

    Aceng said the move is a major boost for medical training and healthcare in southwestern Uganda noting that Kabale Regional Referral Hospital serves over 2.4 million people, including patients from Rwanda.

    “This is more than just a land deal, it is an investment in better healthcare, stronger medical education and growth for the Kigezi sub-region and beyond,” Aceng said.

    She noted that the expansion will help the university train more doctors and nurses for the region, addressing a critical shortage of healthcare workers in districts like Kabale, Kanungu, Ntungamo, Kisoro and Rukungiri.

    Currently Kabale University’s medical school operates out of run-down hospital building that is set for demolition.  Aceng emphasised that the sublease will allow the university to create a modern medical school and teaching hospital.

    “This will improve training, enhance research, and bring better healthcare closer to the communities that need it most,” she said.

    The Koboko Municipality MP, Hon. Charles Ayume said the motion was timely considering the state of the Medical school and its symbiotic relationship with the Regional Referral Hospital.

    “A Medical school and hospital have a symbiotic relationship where they all benefit. The University does the teaching but the hospital benefits from extra services of lecturers and students during their training,” said Ayume adding that, “We had queried the type of doctors that will come from that dilapidated building”.

    Tororo District Woman MP, Hon. Sarah Opendi asked fellow legislators to look into the status of Regional Referral Hospitals across the country, saying most are performing way below the capacity of a regional referral hospital.

    “Kabale Regional Referral Hospital is challenged in terms of space and infrastructure, it remains a 100 bed capacity hospital which is below the requirement of a regional referral hospital,” Opendi said.

    She noted that most of the regional referral hospitals are understaffed between 25 to 30 percent staffing level, praying that it should be addressed in the next budget cycle.

    Distributed by APO Group on behalf of Parliament of the Republic of Uganda.

    MIL OSI Africa –

  • MIL-OSI Submissions: A university bookshop in Ibadan tells the story of Nigeria’s rich publishing culture

    Source: The Conversation – Africa – By Tinashe Mushakavanhu, Assistant Professor, Harvard University

    Driven by a desire to explore Nigeria’s literary and cultural history beyond the metropolis of Lagos, I took a road trip to Ibadan, once the most important university town in the country. Ibadan, in Oyo State, was the first city in Nigeria to have a university set up in 1948.

    Ibadan is where the Mbari Club once gathered, an experimental space where Nigerian writers, artists and thinkers – among them Chinua Achebe, Wole Soyinka, JP Clark, Christopher Okigbo, Uche Okeke, Bruce Onobrakpeya, Mabel Segun and South Africa’s Es’kia Mphahlele – met, debated and dreamed in the 1960s and 70s.

    It’s the city where celebrated Nigerian artist and architect Demas Nwoko imagined and built his utopias. Where the Oxford University Press and Heinemann Educational Books established their west African headquarters.



    Read more:
    Chimamanda’s Lagos homecoming wasn’t just a book launch, it was a cultural moment

    Books have always been a form of cultural currency in Ibadan. The presence of major publishers meant that bookshops were not just retail outlets, but intellectual salons, sites of encounter and exchange.

    So while in Ibadan I visited cultural spaces and independent bookshops but it was the charms of the University campus that mostly captured my imagination. And my favourite place was the University of Ibadan Bookshop. At this campus bookshop I lingered the most, in awe and wonder. Its eclectic range of books, journals, public lecture pamphlets, novels, poetry collections and monographs excited me.

    Today, when the global publishing economy has increasingly digitised and centralised, the bookshop feels almost radical just by existing. It’s a reminder that intellectual life in Africa is not peripheral or derived from the west. It is present, prolific and profoundly local. To walk through the shelves of this bookshop was to encounter a history of African thought written and produced on its own terms.

    As a scholar of African literature and archives, my research traces the hidden lives of spaces that have shaped publishing and archives. University bookshops have been overlooked but are essential nodes in the continent’s intellectual history.

    A snapshot of Nigeria

    This campus bookshop gives a snapshot of Nigeria as a print country. Here we witness the nation through its printed matter. A nation of prolific publishing. I found the literary output in the Ibadan campus bookshop not only vast but exuberant and unrelenting. It reflects the texture of the Nigerian personality: loud, boisterous, layered and insistent. Stacks upon stacks of books.

    In these stacks, it dawned on me that beneath the surface lies a vibrant, ongoing literary discourse that is unmistakably Nigerian, and sadly not resonant far beyond its borders. These are books you don’t see on reference lists of “popular” and “influential” scholarship that privileges work produced and imported to Africa from the Euro-American academy.

    I was especially intrigued with how the Nigerian academic and writer does not tire in producing academic and cultural journals. There are journals for every subject under the sun.

    While the critical framework of African literature is too often shaped by the global north (see critiques by Ato Quayson, Biodun Jeyifo, Simon Gikandi and Grace Musila) in Ibadan, I saw a distinctly local and deeply African critical discourse rooted in place, language and lived experience. To walk into the University of Ibadan Bookshop is to step into legacy. Its shelves bear the weight of decades of African thought, theory and storytelling.

    Despite being housed in an ageing building, it has stayed defiant. Even though floods destroyed books and computers worth a small fortune in 2019, the bookshop is still standing proudly. And there was pride too among the staff who were eager to help or answer any questions about the books.

    More than bookshops

    The University of Ibadan bookshop reminded me of the bookshop from my undergraduate days in Zimbabwe. Even though our campus bookshop was much smaller, I used to find pleasure going there in between lectures. It often felt like walking into a vault of African knowledge and memory.

    Our bookshop at Midlands State University stocked old, canonical books alongside current literature. On occasion, rare, out-of-print secondhand books would appear on the shelves. The bargain sales also meant I spent most of my money there.

    But to call these spaces on African university campuses “bookshops” hardly does them justice. They are hybrid cultural ecosystems that function as part bookshop, part print shop, stationer, library and sometimes even archive. They have long served as vital nodes in the circulation of African knowledge and thought.

    Yet this ecosystem is rapidly eroding, undermined by the rise of internet culture, artificial intelligence, piracy and harsh economic conditions. The result is a slow but devastating disappearance of African intellectual memory. As scholars remind us, digital platforms are not neutral. They are structured by algorithms that often marginalise black and African knowledge. So, the loss of these analogue spaces is more than nostalgic, it is epistemic erasure.

    In this digital age, there is something vital about the physical presence of bookshops on African campuses. Thanks to them, as a student, for me literature was the serendipity of discovery, the tactile feel of books, the beautiful persistence of a local knowledge system that was relatable and produced by people like me.



    Read more:
    Nigerian architect Demas Nwoko on his award-winning work: ‘Whatever you build, it should suit your culture’

    On the way out of the city, we stopped at Bower’s Tower. From there you can see Ibadan’s sprawling layout, the ancient hills from which the settlement was built, and its red roofs.

    The view reflected the complexity and density of ideas the city has nurtured. And despite shifts in Nigeria’s publishing geography from here to Lagos and Abuja, Ibadan still matters. It’s a city that remembers, that archives, that holds on to knowledge.

    Tinashe Mushakavanhu 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. A university bookshop in Ibadan tells the story of Nigeria’s rich publishing culture – https://theconversation.com/a-university-bookshop-in-ibadan-tells-the-story-of-nigerias-rich-publishing-culture-262050

    MIL OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Africa: A university bookshop in Ibadan tells the story of Nigeria’s rich publishing culture

    Source: The Conversation – Africa – By Tinashe Mushakavanhu, Assistant Professor, Harvard University

    Driven by a desire to explore Nigeria’s literary and cultural history beyond the metropolis of Lagos, I took a road trip to Ibadan, once the most important university town in the country. Ibadan, in Oyo State, was the first city in Nigeria to have a university set up in 1948.

    Ibadan is where the Mbari Club once gathered, an experimental space where Nigerian writers, artists and thinkers – among them Chinua Achebe, Wole Soyinka, JP Clark, Christopher Okigbo, Uche Okeke, Bruce Onobrakpeya, Mabel Segun and South Africa’s Es’kia Mphahlele – met, debated and dreamed in the 1960s and 70s.

    It’s the city where celebrated Nigerian artist and architect Demas Nwoko imagined and built his utopias. Where the Oxford University Press and Heinemann Educational Books established their west African headquarters.

    Read more: Chimamanda’s Lagos homecoming wasn’t just a book launch, it was a cultural moment

    Books have always been a form of cultural currency in Ibadan. The presence of major publishers meant that bookshops were not just retail outlets, but intellectual salons, sites of encounter and exchange.

    So while in Ibadan I visited cultural spaces and independent bookshops but it was the charms of the University campus that mostly captured my imagination. And my favourite place was the University of Ibadan Bookshop. At this campus bookshop I lingered the most, in awe and wonder. Its eclectic range of books, journals, public lecture pamphlets, novels, poetry collections and monographs excited me.

    Books are cultural currency in Ibadan. Tinashe Mushakavanhu

    Today, when the global publishing economy has increasingly digitised and centralised, the bookshop feels almost radical just by existing. It’s a reminder that intellectual life in Africa is not peripheral or derived from the west. It is present, prolific and profoundly local. To walk through the shelves of this bookshop was to encounter a history of African thought written and produced on its own terms.

    As a scholar of African literature and archives, my research traces the hidden lives of spaces that have shaped publishing and archives. University bookshops have been overlooked but are essential nodes in the continent’s intellectual history.

    A snapshot of Nigeria

    This campus bookshop gives a snapshot of Nigeria as a print country. Here we witness the nation through its printed matter. A nation of prolific publishing. I found the literary output in the Ibadan campus bookshop not only vast but exuberant and unrelenting. It reflects the texture of the Nigerian personality: loud, boisterous, layered and insistent. Stacks upon stacks of books.

    In these stacks, it dawned on me that beneath the surface lies a vibrant, ongoing literary discourse that is unmistakably Nigerian, and sadly not resonant far beyond its borders. These are books you don’t see on reference lists of “popular” and “influential” scholarship that privileges work produced and imported to Africa from the Euro-American academy.

    Stacks upon stacks of books greet one. Tinashe Mushakavanhu

    I was especially intrigued with how the Nigerian academic and writer does not tire in producing academic and cultural journals. There are journals for every subject under the sun.

    While the critical framework of African literature is too often shaped by the global north (see critiques by Ato Quayson, Biodun Jeyifo, Simon Gikandi and Grace Musila) in Ibadan, I saw a distinctly local and deeply African critical discourse rooted in place, language and lived experience. To walk into the University of Ibadan Bookshop is to step into legacy. Its shelves bear the weight of decades of African thought, theory and storytelling.

    Despite being housed in an ageing building, it has stayed defiant. Even though floods destroyed books and computers worth a small fortune in 2019, the bookshop is still standing proudly. And there was pride too among the staff who were eager to help or answer any questions about the books.

    More than bookshops

    The University of Ibadan bookshop reminded me of the bookshop from my undergraduate days in Zimbabwe. Even though our campus bookshop was much smaller, I used to find pleasure going there in between lectures. It often felt like walking into a vault of African knowledge and memory.

    Our bookshop at Midlands State University stocked old, canonical books alongside current literature. On occasion, rare, out-of-print secondhand books would appear on the shelves. The bargain sales also meant I spent most of my money there.

    A distinctly Nigerian book conversation. Tinashe Mushakavanhu

    But to call these spaces on African university campuses “bookshops” hardly does them justice. They are hybrid cultural ecosystems that function as part bookshop, part print shop, stationer, library and sometimes even archive. They have long served as vital nodes in the circulation of African knowledge and thought.

    Yet this ecosystem is rapidly eroding, undermined by the rise of internet culture, artificial intelligence, piracy and harsh economic conditions. The result is a slow but devastating disappearance of African intellectual memory. As scholars remind us, digital platforms are not neutral. They are structured by algorithms that often marginalise black and African knowledge. So, the loss of these analogue spaces is more than nostalgic, it is epistemic erasure.

    In this digital age, there is something vital about the physical presence of bookshops on African campuses. Thanks to them, as a student, for me literature was the serendipity of discovery, the tactile feel of books, the beautiful persistence of a local knowledge system that was relatable and produced by people like me.

    Read more: Nigerian architect Demas Nwoko on his award-winning work: ‘Whatever you build, it should suit your culture’

    On the way out of the city, we stopped at Bower’s Tower. From there you can see Ibadan’s sprawling layout, the ancient hills from which the settlement was built, and its red roofs.

    The view reflected the complexity and density of ideas the city has nurtured. And despite shifts in Nigeria’s publishing geography from here to Lagos and Abuja, Ibadan still matters. It’s a city that remembers, that archives, that holds on to knowledge.

    – A university bookshop in Ibadan tells the story of Nigeria’s rich publishing culture
    – https://theconversation.com/a-university-bookshop-in-ibadan-tells-the-story-of-nigerias-rich-publishing-culture-262050

    MIL OSI Africa –

  • MIL-OSI: NANO Nuclear Selected for Inclusion in the Solactive Global Uranium & Nuclear Components Total Return Index, Qualifying It for Inclusion in the Prominent Global X Uranium ETF (“URA”)

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    With over $4 billion in net assets, the Global X Uranium ETF is the world’s preeminent ETF providing investors broad exposure to companies involved in uranium mining and the production of nuclear components

    New York, N.Y., Aug. 01, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — NANO Nuclear Energy Inc. (NASDAQ: NNE) (“NANO Nuclear” or “the Company”), a leading advanced nuclear energy and technology company focused on developing clean energy solutions, today announced that it has been selected for inclusion in the Solactive Global Uranium & Nuclear Components Total Return Index, following the Index’s semiannual review and subsequent rebalancing.

    Effective as of August 1, 2025, NANO Nuclear’s common stock will be included in the Solactive Global Uranium & Nuclear Components Total Return Index, an Index of Solactive AG which tracks the price movements in shares of companies that have (or are expected to have) exposure to the uranium industry. This particularly includes uranium mining, exploration, uranium investments and technologies (such as NANO Nuclear’s micro modular nuclear reactors under development) related to the uranium industry

    The Solactive Global Uranium & Nuclear Components Total Return Index serves as a benchmark for exchange-traded funds (or ETFs) and other investment products, with NANO Nuclear’s inclusion reflecting its growing presence in the global nuclear energy and uranium supply chain.

    As a result of this addition, NANO Nuclear’s common stock now qualifies for inclusion in the prominent Global X Uranium ETF (ticker “URA”), with approximately $4 billion in net assets, which passively tracks the Solactive Global Uranium & Nuclear Components Total Return Index. Notably, the Global X Uranium ETF is the world’s preeminent ETF providing investors broad exposure to companies involved in uranium mining and the production of nuclear components.

    Figure 1 – NANO Nuclear Energy Inc. Selected for inclusion in the Solactive Global Uranium & Nuclear Components Total Return Index, qualifying it for inclusion in the prominent Global X Uranium ETF (“URA”)

    “Our team has executed well on our stated strategic priorities, strengthening our market position and building collaborations that support our long‑term growth and valuation,” said Jay Yu, Founder and Chairman of NANO Nuclear. “Inclusion in Solactive’s Global Uranium & Nuclear Components Total Return Index and the Global X Uranium ETF marks these achievements and is another positive step in our trajectory, highlighting our expanding role in the global nuclear energy industry. It is a testament to the hard work being done by our team to steadily grow our company, advance our technologies, and deliver value to our shareholders both now and in the future.”

    “This is an important milestone for NANO Nuclear, and we are proud to be included in Solactive’s coverage of the nuclear and uranium industry,” said James Walker, Chief Executive Officer of NANO Nuclear. “We continue to take proactive steps to advance NANO Nuclear’s various development programs and initiatives and create shareholder value. This inclusion increases our visibility in the public markets and connects us with investors who are interested in this growing sector. We look forward to leveraging this exposure as we continue to grow and progress our business plans.”

    About NANO Nuclear Energy, Inc.

    NANO Nuclear Energy Inc. (NASDAQ: NNE) is an advanced technology-driven nuclear energy company seeking to become a commercially focused, diversified, and vertically integrated company across five business lines: (i) cutting edge portable and other microreactor technologies, (ii) nuclear fuel fabrication, (iii) nuclear fuel transportation, (iv) nuclear applications for space and (v) nuclear industry consulting services. NANO Nuclear believes it is the first portable nuclear microreactor company to be listed publicly in the U.S.

    Led by a world-class nuclear engineering team, NANO Nuclear’s reactor products in development include patented KRONOS MMR™Energy System, a stationary high-temperature gas-cooled reactor that is in construction permit pre-application engagement U.S. Nuclear Regulatory Commission (NRC) in collaboration with University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign (U. of I.), “ZEUS”, a solid core battery reactor, and “ODIN”, a low-pressure coolant reactor, and the space focused, portable LOKI MMR™, each representing advanced developments in clean energy solutions that are portable, on-demand capable, advanced nuclear microreactors.

    Advanced Fuel Transportation Inc. (AFT), a NANO Nuclear subsidiary, is led by former executives from the largest transportation company in the world aiming to build a North American transportation company that will provide commercial quantities of HALEU fuel to small modular reactors, microreactor companies, national laboratories, military, and DOE programs. Through NANO Nuclear, AFT is the exclusive licensee of a patented high-capacity HALEU fuel transportation basket developed by three major U.S. national nuclear laboratories and funded by the Department of Energy. Assuming development and commercialization, AFT is expected to form part of the only vertically integrated nuclear fuel business of its kind in North America.

    HALEU Energy Fuel Inc. (HEF), a NANO Nuclear subsidiary, is focusing on the future development of a domestic source for a High-Assay, Low-Enriched Uranium (HALEU) fuel fabrication pipeline for NANO Nuclear’s own microreactors as well as the broader advanced nuclear reactor industry.

    NANO Nuclear Space Inc. (NNS), a NANO Nuclear subsidiary, is exploring the potential commercial applications of NANO Nuclear’s developing micronuclear reactor technology in space. NNS is focusing on applications such as the LOKI MMR™ system and other power systems for extraterrestrial projects and human sustaining environments, and potentially propulsion technology for long haul space missions. NNS’ initial focus will be on cis-lunar applications, referring to uses in the space region extending from Earth to the area surrounding the Moon’s surface.

    For more corporate information please visit: https://NanoNuclearEnergy.com/

    For further NANO Nuclear information, please contact:

    Email: IR@NANONuclearEnergy.com
    Business Tel: (212) 634-9206

    PLEASE FOLLOW OUR SOCIAL MEDIA PAGES HERE:

    NANO Nuclear Energy LINKEDIN
    NANO Nuclear Energy YOUTUBE
    NANO Nuclear Energy X PLATFORM

    Cautionary Note Regarding Forward Looking Statements

    This news release and statements of NANO Nuclear’s management in connection with this news release contain or may contain “forward-looking statements” within the meaning of Section 21E of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as amended, and the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995. In this context, forward-looking statements mean statements related to future events, which may impact our expected future business and financial performance, and often contain words such as “expects”, “anticipates”, “intends”, “plans”, “believes”, “potential”, “will”, “should”, “could”, “would” or “may” and other words of similar meaning. In this press release, forward-looking statements relate to the anticipated benefits of NANO Nuclear’s inclusion in the index and ETF described herein and its plans and goals generally. These and other forward-looking statements are based on information available to us as of the date of this news release and represent management’s current views and assumptions. Forward-looking statements are not guarantees of future performance, events or results and involve significant known and unknown risks, uncertainties and other factors, which may be beyond our control. For NANO Nuclear, particular risks and uncertainties that could cause our actual future results to differ materially from those expressed in our forward-looking statements include but are not limited to the following: (i) risks related to our U.S. Department of Energy (“DOE”) or related state or non-U.S. nuclear licensing submissions, (ii) risks related the development of new or advanced technology and the acquisition of complimentary technology or businesses, including difficulties with design and testing, cost overruns, regulatory delays, integration issues and the development of competitive technology, (iii) our ability to obtain contracts and funding to be able to continue operations, (iv) risks related to uncertainty regarding our ability to technologically develop and commercially deploy a competitive advanced nuclear reactor or other technology in the timelines we anticipate, if ever, (v) risks related to the impact of U.S. and non-U.S. government regulation, policies and licensing requirements, including by the DOE and the U.S. Nuclear Regulatory Commission, including those associated with the recently enacted ADVANCE Act and the May 23, 2025 Executive Orders seeking to streamline nuclear regulation, and (vi) similar risks and uncertainties associated with the operating an early stage business a highly regulated and rapidly evolving industry. Readers are cautioned not to place undue reliance on these forward-looking statements, which apply only as of the date of this news release. These factors may not constitute all factors that could cause actual results to differ from those discussed in any forward-looking statement, and NANO Nuclear therefore encourages investors to review other factors that may affect future results in its filings with the SEC, which are available for review at www.sec.gov and at https://ir.nanonuclearenergy.com/financial-information/sec-filings. Accordingly, forward-looking statements should not be relied upon as a predictor of actual results. We do not undertake to update our forward-looking statements to reflect events or circumstances that may arise after the date of this news release, except as required by law.

    Attachment

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI Russia: Financial news: 04.08.2025 ANO “ARSG NO” will hold a deposit auction.

    Translation. Region: Russian Federal

    Source: Moscow Exchange – Moscow Exchange –

    An important disclaimer is at the bottom of this article.

    Please note: This information is raw content obtained directly from the source of the information. It is an accurate report of what the source claims and does not necessarily reflect the position of MIL-OSI or its clients.

    .

    CategoriesEconomics, Mil-SOSI, Moscow, Russia, Russian Economy, Russian Federal, Russian Language, Moscow Exchange, University life /

    Post Navigation

    Archives

    Parameters
    Date of the deposit auction 08.08.2025
    Placement currency Rub
    Maximum amount of funds placed (in placement currency) 330,000,000
    Placement period, days 177
    Date of deposit 05.08.2025
    Refund date 01/29/2026
    Minimum placement interest rate, % per annum 16
    Conditions of imprisonment, urgent or special Urgent
    Minimum amount of funds placed for one application (in placement currency) 330,000,000
    Maximum number of applications from one Participant, pcs. 1
    Auction form, open or closed Open
    Basis of the Treaty General Agreement
    Schedule (Moscow time)
    Preliminary applications from 10:00 to 10:10
    Applications in competition mode from 10:10 to 10:20
    Setting a cut-off percentage or declaring the auction invalid until 10:40
    Additional terms

    MIL OSI Russia News –

  • MIL-OSI Russia: Magadan Region will present a project on the contribution of Kolyma to the Victory in the Great Patriotic War at the Far East Street within the framework of the EEF

    Translation. Region: Russian Federal

    Source: Government of the Russian Federation – Government of the Russian Federation –

    An important disclaimer is at the bottom of this article.

    At the exhibition “Far East Street”, which will be held in Vladivostok from September 3 to 9 as part of the anniversary, tenth Eastern Economic Forum, Magadan Region will present its opportunities for the development of tourism and recreation – both already implemented and promising projects. The organizer of the exhibition is the Roscongress Foundation with the support of the office of the Plenipotentiary Representative of the President of Russia in the Far Eastern Federal District.

    “The Magadan region shows stable positive dynamics. The region is the “golden heart” of the Far East. The State Duma has adopted in the first reading a bill on the creation of an advanced development area in the region. The preferential regime will stimulate shipbuilding and ship repair, logistics, tourism and other industries. The economy provides an opportunity to develop the social sphere, and therefore, to qualitatively change people’s lives. On behalf of the President, the Magadan master plan is being actively implemented. You can see how the city is changing. Those who come to the region are greeted by a new beautiful airport. You can learn about how the Magadan region is changing, what plans it has for the future, what makes it attractive to investors and tourists at the “Far East Street” exhibition, so that after the EEF you can come and see with your own eyes the northern beauty of nature, get to know the responsive, brave and kind people living in Kolyma,” said Deputy Prime Minister – Presidential Plenipotentiary Envoy to the Far Eastern Federal District, Chairman of the Organizing Committee of the Eastern Economic Forum Yuri Trutnev.

    Guests of the pavilion will be able to get acquainted with the culture and life of the indigenous peoples of the North, and learn about the traditions and way of life that are preserved and developed in the region.

    “The Magadan Region is not only rich in mineral resources and industrial potential, but also unique nature, history, culture and character of the Kolyma people. At the EEF, we will show how the region is developing today and what it plans for the future. The focus is on the economy, tourism, social sphere, opportunities for investors and, of course, the traditions of indigenous peoples. All this is an integral part of our Kolyma,” said Magadan Region Governor Sergei Nosov.

    The concept of the Magadan Region pavilion is based on the economic, cultural and natural features of the region. The exposition consists of three zones: the main and small pavilions, as well as podiums with regional expositions.

    A three-meter copy of the sculpture “Time” will become a traditional component. The five-meter original – a mammoth by sculptor Yuri Rudenko – stands in Magadan on the shore of Nagaev Bay. The “skin” of the monument is covered with various metal parts – gears, bearings – and resembles a clock mechanism. On the podium in front of the pavilion there will be a screen on which films dedicated to the natural beauty of Kolyma will be shown, as part of the projects “Far East – Land of Adventure” and “Paths of the Far East”, as well as a stele with the name “Magadan Region”.

    The main site of the region consists of three zones. The first will introduce visitors to the achievements of the Magadan Region in the economic and social spheres over ten years, including projects implemented with the support of the Ministry for the Development of the Far East and the Arctic. The second will host a demonstration of bone-carving art products of the indigenous peoples of the North living in the region. At the site, you can take a selfie against the backdrop of a golden waterfall, symbolizing the main industry of the Magadan Region – the extraction of precious metals.

    The third zone is the space for the placement of a thematic block, introducing visitors to the tourist sites and routes of the region, including the Talaya sanatorium. Visitors will have the opportunity to get acquainted with the best examples of traditional culture and purchase the products they like.

    The small pavilion will introduce guests to the recently opened art space “Rynda” in Magadan, where you can buy re-esterified fish oil – omega-3, which is produced in the capital of Kolyma at the “Omega-Si” plant. The second zone will host an exhibition and sale of jewelry and souvenirs. The third space, “Kolyma – from Victory to Victory”, will introduce visitors to facts about the role of Kolyma in the Victory in the Great Patriotic War, as well as its contribution to ensuring the success of the country during the special military operation.

    In addition, the exposition of the Magadan Region will be complemented by an installation installed on the embankment, stylized as the Mayak Park, located in Nagaev Bay, created with the help of a single presidential subsidy. Various activities, games, master classes and karaoke are also planned for the pavilion guests.

    The 10th Eastern Economic Forum will be held on September 3–6 at the campus of the Far Eastern Federal University in Vladivostok. During these days, the exhibition will be available to forum participants, and on September 7, 8, and 9, it will be open to everyone. The EEF is organized by the Roscongress Foundation.

    Please note: This information is raw content obtained directly from the source of the information. It is an accurate report of what the source claims and does not necessarily reflect the position of MIL-OSI or its clients.

    .

    MIL OSI Russia News –

  • MIL-OSI Russia: Peking University’s Belt and Road Research Institute Opens in Xinjiang

    Translation. Region: Russian Federal

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

    An important disclaimer is at the bottom of this article.

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

    URUMQI, Aug. 1 (Xinhua) — The opening ceremony of the Belt and Road Research Institute of Peking University-Xinjiang was held in Kashgar, northwest China’s Xinjiang Uygur Autonomous Region, on Friday. The establishment of the institute is aimed at further and thorough promotion of the joint construction of the Belt and Road, promoting high-quality development in Xinjiang and building a new pattern of opening up to the outside world in the region.

    Vice Chairman of the Xinjiang Uygur Autonomous Region People’s Government and Secretary of the Kashgar Prefecture Party Committee Nie Zhuang delivered a speech at the event, saying that the establishment of the research institute is of great significance for both Xinjiang and Kashgar.

    “I am confident that the institute will promote the integrated development of education, science and technology, as well as the training of highly qualified personnel in the region, accelerate the transformation of Kashgar into a springboard for opening up to the West, and promote modernization in Xinjiang,” he said.

    Piao Shilong, vice-president of Peking University, said the university attaches great importance to the construction of the institute, integrating interdisciplinary advantages and implementing a new model of establishing research institutes away from the home campus.

    “In the future, the institute will conduct in-depth research in key areas such as energy and mineral resources, ecological environment, regions and countries, historical archaeology, strengthening the consciousness of the Chinese nation and new structural economy,” Piao Shilong added.

    He also noted that the institute will strive to provide reliable scientific, technological and intellectual support for the high-quality development of Xinjiang and build it into a leading talent pool and innovation hub covering Central and South Asia and countries participating in the Belt and Road Initiative. -0-

    Please note: This information is raw content obtained directly from the source of the information. It is an accurate report of what the source claims and does not necessarily reflect the position of MIL-OSI or its clients.

    .

    MIL OSI Russia News –

  • MIL-OSI Russia: Polytechnic University in the top five in metallurgy according to URAP rating

    Translation. Region: Russian Federal

    Source: Peter the Great St. Petersburg Polytechnic University –

    An important disclaimer is at the bottom of this article.

    SPbPU has strengthened its position in the international Ranking by Academic Performance (URAP) rating, entering 9 subject areas. The greatest progress was achieved in physics and metallurgy: Polytechnic University improved its world indicators by 10 and 47 positions, respectively, entering the top 5 in metallurgy among Russian universities. The university also entered the top ten in Russia in materials science, moving up two notches.

    The Polytechnic University has the strongest school of metallurgy and materials science, which is confirmed by high results in national and international rankings. At our university, we preserve the traditions of the old scientific school, combining them with modern technologies and opportunities. Our scientists and students have access to advanced equipment, participate in joint projects with leading research groups and industrial partners. Polytechnic University graduates are in demand at the largest metallurgical enterprises of the country, making a significant contribution to the development of the industry and the technological leadership of the country. We are constantly updating educational programs, providing training for specialists that meet the most pressing needs of the industry, – comments the rector of SPbPU Andrey Rudskoy.

    The URAP ranking methodology is entirely based on academic productivity, which is based on the university’s publication activity. The evaluation indicators include the quality and quantity of publications, citation, and the effectiveness of international research cooperation.

    Research groups, teachers and students of SPbPU regularly publish the results of their work in leading scientific journals, because the assessment of academic excellence allows demonstrating the level of scientific and educational potential of the university. Despite the difficulties that Russian universities face in terms of publication activity, we at SPbPU try to support our employees in their desire to realize their scientific potential, and we also support scientists from other universities, providing the opportunity to publish in periodicals of our university, – noted Vice-Rector for Human Resources Policy Maria Vrublevskaya.

    Let us recall that the university’s position in the Ranking by Academic Performance rating is also taken into account for ranking universities in the ranking Global Aggregate Rating, according to the results of which Polytechnic University is among the top 3% of the best universities in the world.

    You can find out more about the rating results by link.

    Please note: This information is raw content obtained directly from the source of the information. It is an accurate report of what the source claims and does not necessarily reflect the position of MIL-OSI or its clients.

    .

    MIL OSI Russia News –

  • MIL-OSI Russia: The results of the selection for the All-Russian project “Professional Team of the First” have been summed up

    Translation. Region: Russian Federal

    Source: Official website of the State –

    An important disclaimer is at the bottom of this article.

    On August 1, 2025, the results of the selection for the All-Russian project “Professional Team of the First” were announced, the correspondence stage of which is carried out by the State University of Management together with the Russian Movement of Children and Youth “Movement of the First”.

    The project is a comprehensive professional development program, in which about 3,000 curators of primary branches of the “First Movement” at universities and colleges, responsible for educational work and youth policy, students aged 16 to 25 years old, participate in the correspondence stage.

    The correspondence stage will be held in the format of an online course on the topic: “Management of the primary branch of the “First Movement” based on an educational organization.” As part of the course, project participants will undergo training with mandatory study of disciplines, midterm testing and complete project work. Successful completion of the correspondence course gives the right to participate in the competitive selection for full-time training – participation in forums that will be held in eight federal districts of the Russian Federation.

    Participants invited to the online course have already been sent letters with further instructions and access to the Digital Corpus of the State University of Management. You can view the list of those selected according to the instructions.

    We wish everyone fruitful learning!

    Please note: This information is raw content obtained directly from the source of the information. It is an accurate report of what the source claims and does not necessarily reflect the position of MIL-OSI or its clients.

    .

    MIL OSI Russia News –

  • MIL-OSI Analysis: From ‘God Emperor Trump’ to ‘St. Luigi,’ memes power the politics of feeling

    Source: The Conversation – Canada – By Stuart J. Murray, Professor of Rhetoric and Ethics | Professeur titulaire en rhétorique et éthique, Carleton University

    Why do images of Donald Trump as a galactic emperor or Luigi Mangione as a Catholic saint resonate so deeply with some people? Memes don’t just entertain — they shape how we identify with power, grievance and justice in the digital age.

    A meme is a decontextualized video or image — often captioned — that circulates an idea, behaviour or style, primarily through social media. As they spread, memes are adapted, remixed and transformed, helping to solidify the communities around them.

    Trump, the meme pope

    Days after Pope Francis’s death in April 2025, Trump posted an AI-generated image of himself in papal regalia on Truth Social. The White House’s official X account then shared it, amplifying its reach.

    Trump quickly dismissed it as a joke, but the image lingered.

    Two days later, another emerged: Trump as galactic emperor, blending Star Wars aesthetics with the visual rhetoric of Warhammer 40,000, a popular dystopian sci-fi franchise featuring authoritarian rulers, imperial armies and endless war.

    Trump memes like these once circulated semi-ironically in social media subcultures like Reddit and 4chan under the banner “God Emperor Trump.”

    But what might previously have seemed like absurdist cosplay now carries the symbolic weight of executive power, blending religious and imperial imagery to project Trump as a mythical figure, not just a politician.

    In-jokes

    As I’ve argued in an article on MAGA and empathy, these memes draw on cultural codes not to parody power but to usurp it as instruments of official political communication.

    Fact-checking can’t stop them. We know they are factually untrue, but they feel true and consolidate a shared sentiment among Trump’s base.

    The meme is not a joke — it’s an in-joke only the in-group understands.

    And that’s the point.

    A meme is an accelerant, delivering compressed emotional payloads, short-circuiting debate and reinforcing people’s political identifications. Propelled by algorithms and designed to go viral, memes solicit immediate responses — outrage, loyalty, disgust, amusement.

    Memes don’t ask what’s true or what’s just.

    Instead, they curate — and encode — emotional alignment, replacing liberalism’s democratic ideal of reasoned public discourse with viral attachment: grievance recoded as identity.

    Elon Musk and weaponizing empathy

    On Feb. 20, 2025, days after Trump appointed Elon Musk to head his new Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE), the Tesla founder appeared at the Conservative Political Action Conference, an annual gathering of conservative activists and officials from across the U.S.

    At the conference, Musk brandished a chainsaw, declaring: “I have become the meme!.” An image of him holding the chainsaw later actually became a meme.

    The image projects libertarian efficiency and masculine bravado, but it more than just mocks bureaucracy — it glorifies cutting ties to domestic, global and humanitarian responsibilities.

    Far from being merely a meme, it advances a policy of neglect that intentionally lets others die.

    Experts estimate that DOGE’s purge of USAID could result in 14 million preventable deaths over the next five years, disproportionately affecting marginalized populations whose historical exploitation helped generate the wealth now wielded as power.

    Individuals vs. the collective

    But we are not meant to feel empathy. In early 2025, Musk called empathy “the fundamental weakness of western civilization,” claiming it is “weaponized by the left.”

    Yet Musk doesn’t reject empathy entirely — only empathy for individuals, which he said risks “civilizational suicide.”



    Read more:
    MAGA’s ‘war on empathy’ might not be original, but it is dangerous

    Instead, Musk believes we must have empathy for “civilization as a whole.” Such rhetoric — sacrificing individuals for the collective — recalls a chilling Nazi-era slogan: Du bist nichts, dein Volk ist alles (“You are nothing, your people are everything”). Musk has also drawn criticism for making public Nazi salutes and ethno-nationalist statements advocating for white people.



    Read more:
    How Elon Musk’s chatbot Grok could be helping bring about an era of techno-fascism

    Mangione, the meme martyr

    If Trump and Musk memes stage fantasies of absolute power, Mangione memes reply with fantasies of redemptive rupture.

    Accused of killing UnitedHealthcare CEO Brian Thompson, Mangione has been lionized in memes that champion vulnerability and social justice, opposing the billionaire class — figures like Trump and Musk — who put profits over people.

    These memes appear to oppose the MAGA meme machine, encoding class struggle as quiet defiance and anti-authoritarianism. Unlike Musk’s chainsaw-wielding bravado, which seems to mask a fragile ego, Mangione memes project a humble, rebellious heartthrob.

    Yet, like Trump and Musk, Mangione has become a brand. His face adorns T-shirts and “St. Luigi” prayer candles, capitalizing on the popular meme that emerged soon after his arrest. This commodification mirrors right-wing meme economies, even if the message differs.

    Emotional saturation

    Mangione memes have helped raise over $1.2 million for his legal defence.

    They don’t just reflect feeling — they organize it, channelling it into cultural, political and literal currency, including a Luigi crypto coin ($LUIGI) and a musical.

    These memes share MAGA meme tactics: relentless repetition and emotional saturation. Instead of encouraging thoughtful debate, they rally communities around shared grievances, acts of defiance and collective faith.

    Feeling our way through the feed

    From MAGA to Mangione, meme-mythologies often function as rationalizations of violence — whether framed as righteous, purifying or revolutionary. But what unites Trump’s papal cosplay, Musk’s chainsaw and Mangione’s martyrdom isn’t their message but their form.

    Whether cloaked in MAGA nostalgia or social justice sentiments, memes that appear to resist power often reproduce the structures that made that power so intoxicating in the first place.

    We’ve seen how official White House and Department of Homeland Security social media memes have become increasingly cruel, sinister, polarizing and even radicalizing.



    Read more:
    ‘Alligator Alcatraz’ showcases Donald Trump’s penchant for visual cruelty

    Meanwhile, some liberals on the left continue to promote what is known as the “marketplace of ideas” — the belief that truth will prevail if all ideas are allowed to circulate freely. But reason doesn’t always triumph over power. And memes aren’t just ideas: they’re technologies that bypass deliberation to shape our feelings, identities and ways of communicating.

    Consumed by media

    We no longer “consume” media: we’re a function of the algorithms and AI powering today’s platforms. Like memes, AI tools like large language models can churn out plausible content that is nonetheless hateful, divisive and patently untrue.

    Musk’s “I have become the meme” therefore reveals a paradox: he claims to master the meme, but no one can control its circulation or uptake. Trump and Mangione, too, are less individuals than avatars — produced by a digital culture that pre-shapes our perceptions of them.

    The violence, however, is very real. If one violent act doesn’t justify counter-violence, it nonetheless structures and occasions it. Each side claims it is just.

    Memes don’t ask: can we intentionally let others die and still be just? Answering this question is nearly impossible in a meme world. The answer will be a meme. And it will be a joke.

    Stuart J. Murray receives funding from the Social Sciences and Humanities Research Council of Canada.

    – ref. From ‘God Emperor Trump’ to ‘St. Luigi,’ memes power the politics of feeling – https://theconversation.com/from-god-emperor-trump-to-st-luigi-memes-power-the-politics-of-feeling-260388

    MIL OSI Analysis –

  • MIL-OSI Analysis: Flawed notions of objectivity are hampering Canadian newsrooms when it comes to Gaza

    Source: The Conversation – Canada – By Gabriela Perdomo, Assistant Professor, Mount Royal University

    The response of Canada’s legacy news media to the Israeli government’s military action in Gaza for more than 640 days points to a problem within major Canadian news organizations, according to a new Canadian book, When Genocide Wasn’t News.

    In the book, journalists — some writing under pseudonyms — say their newsrooms have been severely hampered by a culture of fear and an adherence to a notion of objectivity that no longer serves the public.

    Israel’s relentless military actions in the Gaza Strip following the Oct. 7, 2023 attack and taking of 251 hostages by Hamas should be prominently featured news. The Israeli Defence Forces’ illegal attacks on children, hospitals and aid workers should also be making constant headlines. But news coverage on these attacks is scarce or misleading.

    I research and teach media, monitor the news and edit an online publication about journalism in Canada. My PhD thesis focused on Latin America and examined how the mandate to be objective can be confusing in times of war. I also explored questions about how journalists understand and apply objectivity in different contexts.

    I found journalists who support peace efforts can easily be accused of being “biased” in favour of those promoting peace.

    Not all wars covered equally

    Not all wars are covered the same. Noureddine Miladi, a media and communications professor at Qatar University, found Russia’s invasion of Ukraine in 2022 received far greater coverage in mainstream media than the war in Gaza. Part of this difference in coverage lies in the ability to send reporters to cover events first hand, which is impossible in the Gaza Strip, where outside journalists are banned from entry.



    Read more:
    The chilling effects of trying to report on the Israel-Gaza war

    Another major factor affecting coverage is how newsrooms understand and apply their norms, including objectivity. Journalism production is influenced and impacted by the dynamics of place and power that surround it.

    As Carleton University journalism professor Duncan McCue argues, an unexamined adherence to objectivity can perpetuate colonial points of view. University of British Columbia journalism professors Candis Callison and Mary Lynn Young, authors of a book about journalism’s racial reckoning in Canada, also make this argument.

    Accusations of antisemitism

    Accusations of bias can have an outsized impact on reporting and be used to silence journalists.

    According to some journalists, there is an atmosphere of fear when it comes to reporting on the Middle East in mainstream newsrooms in Canada. Some have self-censored in response to threats.

    Not only do journalists say they are facing threats, they also face a context in which governments, such as the province of Ontario, are adhering to definitions of antisemitism that equate it to criticism of Israel.

    In Canada, news organizations and individual journalists attempting to report on the violence in the Gaza Strip are being accused of antisemitism by groups such as Honest Reporting, according to the Canadian Press Freedom Project. This means almost anyone reporting on the Israeli government’s actions in Gaza will receive hundreds of messages claiming the report is antisemitic.

    Since many scholars and the United Nations Special Committee to investigate Israeli practices have called the Israeli government’s methods “consistent with genocide, including use of starvation as weapon of war,” urgent reporting is needed — and it’s not antisemitism to call out what experts have labelled global injustices.

    Left-wing bias?

    The culmination of decades of this type of criticism of news media has included a right-wing narrative that accuses media of a liberal bias. The trope of the liberal media as a threat has had a steady hold of the public imagination across North America since the Cold War.

    Reporters who focused on stories about human rights, questioned the tactics and budgets of the military industrial complex or challenged the mistreatment of socialist activists as being unpatriotic were accused of having a liberal, left-wing, even communist, slant.

    This isn’t a phemomenon limited to North America. Latin American politicians have a long history of using “left-wing bias” labels as a powerful tool to intimidate journalists.



    Read more:
    How news coverage influences countries’ emergency aid budgets – new research

    What do journalists owe peace?

    Research shows that audiences value objective journalism, or reporting that they deem non-partisan and keeps opinions at bay. But consumers also increasingly value journalism that is empathetic and emotionally resonant.

    After United States President Donald Trump was first elected in 2016, journalism scholars recognized that a major failure of news coverage during the presidential campaign was not calling things what they were. For example, journalists used euphemisms such as “he misspoke” instead of reporting that Trump was lying, contributing to a crisis of relevance in journalism.

    According to the Committee to Protect Journalists, the Israel-Gaza war has killed more journalistsr than in any other conflict it’s documented. But the allegedly deliberate targeting of journalists in Gaza, of whom at least 225 have been killed, has garnered little attention in newsrooms, despite calls by dozens of independent journalists to make the issue more visible.

    This is another unprecedented set of events that should be reported on for Canadian audiences.

    How will Canadian newsrooms do better? One idea could be that newsrooms join forces to fend off accusations of bias and antisemitism. They could start with reclaiming objectivity as a practice of information-gathering and moving away from objectivity as an ideal of dispassionate reporting.

    They could also embrace, instead of fear, journalism’s liberal roots and reclaim journalism from a standpoint of clarity where actions against the rule of law, abuses of power, war profiteering, crimes against humanity — any illiberal acts — clearly fall on the wrong side of the liberal-democratic balance and therefore demand to be denounced. As veteran CBC journalist Carol Off has said, we need to denounce illiberal acts as anti-democratic ideology.

    Every inhabitant of Gaza remains in imminent peril today, and the media have a responsibility to inform us about it.

    Gabriela Perdomo 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. Flawed notions of objectivity are hampering Canadian newsrooms when it comes to Gaza – https://theconversation.com/flawed-notions-of-objectivity-are-hampering-canadian-newsrooms-when-it-comes-to-gaza-260552

    MIL OSI Analysis –

  • MIL-OSI Analysis: Why Donald Trump has stopped some conflicts but is failing with Ukraine and Gaza

    Source: The Conversation – UK – By Stefan Wolff, Professor of International Security, University of Birmingham

    In yet another twist in his unpredictable decision making, US president Donald Trump has dramatically shortened his original 50-day ultimatum to Vladimir Putin to call a ceasefire in Ukraine to a mere ten days. It’s an unmistakable sign of Trump’s frustration with the Russian leader who he now appears to view as the main obstacle to ending the war.

    Progress has been similarly limited on another of Trump’s flagship foreign policy projects: ending the war in Gaza. As a humanitarian catastrophe engulfs the territory, Trump and some of his Maga base are finally challenging Israel’s denials that, after almost two years of war, many Gazans now face a real risk of starvation.

    In neither case have his efforts to mediate and bring an end to the violence borne any fruit. But not all of Trump’s efforts to stop violence in conflicts elsewhere in the world have been similarly futile. The administration brokered a ceasefire between Rwanda and the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC), which the two countries’ foreign ministers signed in Washington on June 27.

    The US president has also claimed to be behind the ceasefire between India and Pakistan in May after the two sides had engaged in several days of fierce combat following a terror attack in Indian-administered Kashmir by a Pakistan-backed rebel group. And, drawing a clear parallel between this conflict and the border clashes between Cambodia and Thailand in July, Trump announced he had pushed both countries’ leaders to negotiate a ceasefire.

    All of these ceasefires, so far, have held. By contrast, the ceasefire in the war between Israel and Hamas in Gaza, to which Trump contributed in January, even before he was inaugurated for his second term, broke down in March and fighting has escalated ever since. A short-lived ceasefire in Ukraine in April was barely worth its name given the countless violations.

    Mixed record

    Three factors can explain Trump’s mixed record of peacemaking to date. First, the US president is more likely to succeed in stopping the fighting where he has leverage and is willing to use it to force foreign leaders to bend to his will. For example, Trump was very clear that there would be no trade negotiations with Thailand or Cambodia “until such time as the fighting STOPS”.

    The crucial difference, so far, with the situation in the war against Ukraine is that Trump has, and has used, similar leverage only with the Ukrainian president, Volodymyr Zelensky. This led to a US-Ukraine agreement on a 30-day ceasefire proposal just two weeks after the now-notorious row between Trump and Zelensky in the Oval Office.

    The mere threat of sanctions against Russia, by contrast, has done little to persuade Putin to accept whatever deal might Trump offer him. Trump’s threats – which he has never followed through on – did not work in January or May. The Kremlin’s initial reactions to the latest ultimatum from the White House do not indicate a change in Putin’s attitude.

    A second factor that may explain why Trump has had peacemaking success in some cases but not others is the level of complexity of US interests involved. When it comes to US relations with Russia and Israel, there is a lot more at stake for Trump.

    The US president still appears keen to strike a grand bargain with Russia and China under which Washington, Beijing and Moscow would agree to recognise, and not interfere in, their respective spheres of influence. This could explains his hesitation so far to follow through on his threats to Putin.

    Similarly, US interests in the Middle East – whether it’s over Iran’s nuclear programme or relations with America’s Gulf allies – have put strains on the alliance with Israel. Trump also needs to weigh carefully the impact of any move against, or in support of, Israel on his domestic support base.

    In the deal Trump brokered between Rwanda and the DRC, the issues at stake were much simpler: access for US investors to the mineral riches of the eastern DRC. Just days into his second term, Trump acknowledged that the conflict was a “very serious problem”. Congo’s president, Felix Tshisekedi, responded by offering the US access to minerals in exchange for pushing Rwanda to a deal to end the invasion and stop supporting proxy forces in the DRC.

    This leads to the third factor that has enabled Trump’s peace-making success so far: simpler solutions are easier to achieve. Thailand and Cambodia and India and Pakistan can go back to the situation before their recent fighting. That does not resolve any of the underlying issues in their conflicts, but returns their relations to some form of non-violent stability.

    It is ultimately also in the interests of the conflict parties. They have had a chance to make their violent statements and reinforce what they will and won’t tolerate from the other side. The required investment by an external mediator to end battles that have achieved what the warring sides want anyway – to avoid further escalation – is consequently quite limited.

    Complex conflicts

    Getting to any kind of stability in Ukraine or the Middle East by contrast requires prolonged engagement and attention to detail. These conflicts are at a stage in which a return to how things were before is not in the interests of the parties or their external backers. Nudging warring parties along on the path to agreement under such conditions requires a well-designed process, which is absent in Ukraine and failing in Gaza.

    Thanks to funding and personnel cuts, the US secretary of state, Marco Rubio, is now required to perform multiple roles. Trump relies on personal envoys with at best limited foreign policy expertise, while insisting he makes all the decisions. This ultimately suggests that the White House simply may not have the bandwidth for the level of engagement that would be necessary to get to a deal in Ukraine and the Middle East.

    This is a self-inflicted opportunity lost, not only for the United States but also for the long-suffering people of Ukraine and the Middle East.

    Stefan Wolff is a past recipient of grant funding from the Natural Environment Research Council of the UK, the United States Institute of Peace, the Economic and Social Research Council of the UK, the British Academy, the NATO Science for Peace Programme, the EU Framework Programmes 6 and 7 and Horizon 2020, as well as the EU’s Jean Monnet Programme. He is a Trustee and Honorary Treasurer of the Political Studies Association of the UK and a Senior Research Fellow at the Foreign Policy Centre in London.

    – ref. Why Donald Trump has stopped some conflicts but is failing with Ukraine and Gaza – https://theconversation.com/why-donald-trump-has-stopped-some-conflicts-but-is-failing-with-ukraine-and-gaza-262241

    MIL OSI Analysis –

  • MIL-OSI China: Xi signs order to commend military units, individuals

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

    BEIJING, July 31 — Xi Jinping, chairman of the Central Military Commission, has signed an order to award citations for merit to two military units and five individuals.

    An office of Troop 63920 of the Chinese People’s Liberation Army (PLA) was honored with a first-class citation for merit, while Ding Yang from Troop 92853 of the PLA received a first-class citation for merit in defense-related science and technology.

    Troop 96712 of the PLA was awarded a second-class citation for merit.

    Wang Haidou from the former Army Academy of Armored Forces, Gao Yuqi from the Army Medical University, Yang Zichun from the Naval University of Engineering, and Chen Wei from the Institute of Military Medicine under the Academy of Military Sciences, were honored with third-class citations for merit in defense-related science and technology.

    MIL OSI China News –

  • MIL-OSI Africa: Kinshasa Sets the Stage: “The Rumba Route for Peace” Connects Tourism and Culture

    Source: APO


    .

    Held under the High Patronage of His Excellency President Félix Antoine Tshisekedi Tshilombo, the “Rumba Route for Peace” Festival (16-18 July) brought together representatives from across the globe to celebrate the power of music to heal, connect, and inspire across borders—an approach deeply echoed in UN Tourism’s advocacy for using culture as a bridge between people and nations. The event was also in full alignment with UN Tourism’s “Agenda for Africa: Tourism for Inclusive Growth”.

    Where Rhythm Meets Global Leadership

    At the Opening Ceremony, the Festival was inaugurated by President Tshisekedi, following keynote remarks by the Honorable Didier M’Pambia Musanga, Minister of Tourism; the Honorable Yolande Elebe Ma Ndembo, Minister of Culture, Arts, and Heritage; and UN Tourism Secretary-General Zurab Pololikashvili.

    With the participation of government leaders, private sector giants like Sony Music Entertainment and Spotify (virtually), and institutions such as the African Regional Intellectual Property Organization (ARIPO), UNESCO, Sound Diplomacy, ConcertsSA, and the University of La Plata in Argentina, panel sessions explored bold ideas and practical solutions.

    UN Tourism Secretary-General Zurab Pololikashvili said: “Tourism can be a channel for establishing peace and understanding. In Kinshasa, we showcased the power of music to bring people together, as well as the power of tourism to create opportunities, protect and celebrate unique cultures and embrace positive transformation through innovation.”
    His Excellency Félix Antoine Tshisekedi Tshilombo, President of the Democratic Republic of the Congo said: “By uniting the rhythms of the world and the treasures of our territories, this gathering reflects the ambition to build bridges between peoples through art, exchange, and discovery.”

    Panels Centre Youth, Innovation and Culture

    The four high-level panels delved into music tourism’s power to drive peace, protect artists’ rights, boost economic development, and harness the digital revolution to amplify cultural heritage. From “Transatlantic Rhythms for Peace” to “From Vinyl to Viral,” each session reinforced the critical role of youth, innovation, and fair ecosystems in shaping the future of creative industries.

    A standout moment of the Congress was the “Fair Play” Masterclass, led by ARIPO, which underscored the critical importance of copyright and related rights protection. The session empowered 100 artists and creative entrepreneurs with practical tools to build fairer, more sustainable music economies across Africa and beyond.

    The Festival also featured performances by artists from across Africa, including Angola, Kenya, South Africa, and Zimbabwe and offered hands-on experiences such as an immersive rumba initiation, inviting participants to connect with heritage through movement, flavor, and sound.

    Hon. Didier M’Pambia Musanga, Minister of Tourism, Democratic Republic of the Congo said: ““This festival is a platform for exchange, sharing and discovery that crosses races and generations, embodying the spirit of a modern DRC open to the world.”

    Presidential Audience as UN Tourism Supports Education

    In Kinshasa, UN Tourism reaffirmed its strong commitment to a creative, youth-led, and sustainable future, notably through the awarding of 100 scholarships in Destination Marketing via its UN Tourism Academy. This initiative reflects a long-term investment in empowering the next generation of African tourism professionals and innovators.

    An audience with President Tshisekedi further reflected the high-level national support for leveraging culture and tourism as strategic pillars of development. 

    Distributed by APO Group on behalf of World Tourism Organization (UN Tourism).

    MIL OSI Africa –

  • MIL-OSI Africa: Zimbabwe sets strategic course for capacity development on sustainable soil management

    Source: APO


    .

    Zimbabwe has made significant strides towards strengthening its agricultural resilience and soil management capacity through the launch of a new project titled “Capacity Development on Sustainable Soil Management in the Global South.”

    Following the successful high-level launch of the project this week, Zimbabwe has taken a decisive step forward with a two-day inception meeting that built momentum by defining the strategic direction and technical roadmap for project implementation.

    This initiative, supported by the People’s Republic of China under the South-South Cooperation framework is implemented by the Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations (FAO) and the Government of Zimbabwe.   

    “This meeting provided a critical platform to align our shared vision and technical priorities. It allowed us to present the strategic foundations of the project, define synergies among national institutions and key stakeholders, while collectively endorsing a clear roadmap for implementation,” said Patrice Talla, FAO Subregional Coordinator for Southern Africa and Representative to Zimbabwe.

    “This process marks a strategic, co-created and coordinated start to delivering sustainable soil management solutions for Zimbabwe,” added Talla.

    The meeting brought together key directorates and departments from the Ministry of Lands, Agriculture, Fisheries, Water and Rural Development (MLAFWRD). The Agricultural Research, Innovation and Specialist Services (ARISS) was represented by the Chemistry and Soil Research Institute (CSRI) whilst the Agricultural and Rural Development Advisory Services (ARDAS) was represented by the department of Agricultural, Technical and Extension Services (AGRITEX), Marondera University of Agricultural Sciences and Technology (MUAST) and international partners including the Chinese Academy of Agricultural Sciences (CAAS).

    Defining technical priorities and implementation framework

    The inception meeting was strategically structured to align technical dialogue with policy priorities. The meeting featured expert presentations on the distribution and management of red soils in Zimbabwe, the current state of soil laboratories and information systems, and comparative insights from China’s red soil management practices.

    These sessions laid the technical foundation for the project, ensuring that all stakeholders had a shared understanding of the scientific context and implementation framework. The meeting transitioned into a participatory planning phase, where stakeholders engaged in group discussions to define workplans for site identification, soil mapping, laboratory analysis, field trials, and farmer trainings through the Global Soil Doctor Programme.

    “This collaborative approach ensured that the project’s implementation plan was not only technically sound but also nationally owned and contextually relevant. The structure of the meeting strategically contributed to the project’s overall objectives, clarifying roles, and setting a clear, actionable roadmap for effective implementation of the project,” said Emmanuel Chikwari, Head of the CSRI.

    As the project moves into its implementation phase, the focus now shifts to delivering on three strategic priority areas: upgrading soil laboratories and developing digital soil maps; demonstrating sustainable soil and fertilizer management practices through field trials and extension training; and facilitating international knowledge exchange through workshops and technical cooperation. These actions will operationalize the project’s vision and deliver tangible outcomes for Zimbabwe’s soil health and agricultural resilience.

    Harnessing the power of South-South Cooperation and learning

    “This project is a powerful demonstration of how South-South Cooperation can drive innovation and capacity development in sustainable agriculture. As an implementing partner, Marondera University is proud to contribute to the rollout of this initiative by applying research, training, and field-evidence-based learning to improve soil management,” said Esther Masvaya, from MUAST.

    “The inception meeting has set a clear, co-owned and co-created direction for implementation, ensuring that Zimbabwe’s soil economy benefits from inclusive planning, shared expertise, and a strong culture of learning that will drive lasting impact,” said Sibongile Mangena-Chikore, Chief Agronomist, AGRITEX.

    FAO and its implementing partners will continue to refine the project’s strategic direction, monitoring progress and learning through regular workshops and field implementation activities.

    “Sustainable soil management is a pivotal activity towards enhanced agricultural production and productivity in the context of climate change. This project is a game changer, especially in the management of red soils in Zimbabwe, which have not received much attention in the past,” said Obert Maminimini, FAO Project Coordinator.

    Through its strong foundation in South-South Cooperation, the project also creates a platform for Zimbabwe to share its experiences, innovations, and lessons learned with other project countries in the Global South, fostering mutual learning and advancing sustainable soil management across regions.

    Distributed by APO Group on behalf of Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations (FAO): Regional Office for Africa.

    MIL OSI Africa –

  • MIL-OSI Russia: “I felt like an expert” — a RUDN University master’s student about participating in a scientific and practical school at the Eurasian Economic Forum

    Translation. Region: Russian Federal

    Source: Peoples’Friendship University of Russia –

    An important disclaimer is at the bottom of this article.

    How to bring products of the Belarusian company SinRubEnergo, which produces energy equipment, to the Armenian market? A team of students had to think up a business strategy with such a task at a scientific and practical school that took place during the Eurasian Economic Forum in Minsk. It was this team that included a master’s student of the RUDN University Faculty of Economics, Khafiza Nigmatullaeva.

    All participants of the school, and this is more than 50 people from different universities of the Russian Federation and the Republic of Belarus, were divided into five groups. They represented the member countries of the Eurasian Economic Union: Armenia, Russia, Belarus, Kazakhstan and Kyrgyzstan. Each of the groups, except Belarus, developed a project to bring the products of “SinRubEnergo” to the market of the country they were assigned. And the “Belarus” team got the market of Uzbekistan. The company for which the students prepared the projects is a resident of the industrial park “Great Stone”. Therefore, the defense of the works took place on the territory of this park.

    “Armenia is probably one of the most difficult countries to implement such a project, given its political and economic peculiarities. Despite this, we managed to develop an effective and comprehensive plan, which was highly praised by the jury. We competently distributed the tasks among ourselves, relying on the strengths of each: one participant specialized in legal issues, another in marketing, someone confidently worked with analytics and data visualization,” – Khafiza Nigmatullaeva, Master’s student of the Faculty of Economics of RUDN (International Trade, 1st year).

    Logistics and flexibility

    During the tour of the Great Stone, Hafiz, along with another member of the team, was discussed with the residents of the park, how can they use their potential to solve logistics problems. And at a meeting with the Deputy General Director of the North-Western Administrative District of the Industrial Park Development, Arthur Detkov, they found out how appropriate to cooperate with logistics resident companies compared to attracting external operators. “As a result, we reached one of the resident companies, which not only confirmed the possibility of organizing transportation from Belarus to Armenia, but also prepared preliminary calculations of the cost of logistics operations. This has become a significant contribution to the project, since it is logistics that often represents one of the most complex parts of such strategies and requires an accurate miscalculation. Our approach, based on creativity, flexibility and ability to quickly find practical solutions, was also marked by the jury. In addition, one of the members of the commission, Oleg Tabanyukhov, praised our proposals to improve the legal regime of the industrial park and even asked to send our ideas to him. This is largely the merit of our colleague Diana Silchenko – students of the Belarusian Economic State University. In general, I want to emphasize the high level of training and involvement of all members of the team. Working with them was easy and truly productive. The projects of other teams were also very strong, I hope our ideas will be useful to Sinrubenergo, Hafiz Nigmatullaeva, undergraduate of the Faculty of Economics RUDN (direction “International Trade”, I Course).

    Debate on customs rates

    According to the RUDN student, the program of the scientific and practical school was very intense and did not end with work on projects. Every day, students were given excursions, including a visit to the Minsk Tractor Plant and the BelGee automobile plant (a joint Belarusian-Chinese production facility), where they saw the process of assembling cars. The school participants also attended lectures by Belarusian government officials and business representatives. Deputy Minister of Economy of the Republic Kirill Masharsky spoke about the work of the EAEU and his experience in public service. And Director of OJSC Giprosvyaz Anton Alekseev talked to students about digital trends in economic development.

    “Another memorable event was the simulation of the Eurasian Economic Commission. During the business game, we had a lively debate on the issue of extending zero customs duties on electric vehicles. This allowed us to feel like experts and representatives of our country. I am sincerely glad that I took part in the scientific school. Here, each student was able to apply their theoretical knowledge in practice, work in a team, discuss current topics with other participants and experts. I am sure that such initiatives play an important role in building professional confidence, developing communication skills and accumulating real-life experience,” — Khafiza Nigmatullaeva, Master’s student at the Faculty of Economics of RUDN (International Trade, 1st year).

    Please note: This information is raw content obtained directly from the source of the information. It is an accurate report of what the source claims and does not necessarily reflect the position of MIL-OSI or its clients.

    .

    MIL OSI Russia News –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Government confirms Dr Mary-Ann Stephenson as the next EHRC chair

    Source: United Kingdom – Executive Government & Departments

    Press release

    Government confirms Dr Mary-Ann Stephenson as the next EHRC chair

    Minister for Women and Equalities Bridget Phillipson has confirmed that Dr Mary-Ann Stephenson will be appointed as the new Chair of the Equality and Human Rights Commission (EHRC).

    • Dr Mary-Ann Stephenson confirmed as new Chair for Equality and Human Right Commission
    • Dr Stephenson will begin on 1 December 2025, after current chair Baroness Falkner’s term ends on 30 November
    • Dr Stephenson brings over 30 years of experience to the role

    Minister for Women and Equalities Bridget Phillipson has today confirmed that Dr Mary-Ann Stephenson will be appointed as the new Chair of the Equality and Human Rights Commission (EHRC).

    This follows a full and open competition to recruit a new chair, in line with the Governance Code for Public Appointments.

    Dr Stephenson appeared in front of the Women and Equalities Committee and the Joint Committee on Human Rights on 1 July as part of a pre-appointment hearing where she was scrutinised by the committees.

    Dr Mary-Ann Stephenson has over 30 years of experience working on equality and human rights issues within the UK and internationally, over 20 of these at board and CEO level. She also holds a PhD in equality law.

    Positions she has held include:

    • Director of the Women’s Budget Group
    • Director of the Fawcett Society
    • tutor and visiting lecturer at University of Warwick Law School, including international human rights, UK employment law, UK equality law
    • visiting lecturer at University of Nottingham School of Law, London School of Economics and University of Wolverhampton
    • consultant to equalities and human rights projects including British Council, United Nations High Commissioner for Human Rights, Trade Union Congress, and Foreign and Commonwealth Office
    • Chair of Early Education and Childcare Coalition
    • board member of Coventry Rape and Sexual Abuse Centre (CRASAC), Coventry Police and Crime Board, Just Fair, and Article 19
    • Campaigns Officer at Liberty

    Minister for Women and Equalities Bridget Phillipson said:

    Equality and opportunity are absolutely vital in improving people’s life chances and the EHRC plays an essential role in upholding and protecting our rights.

    I have the utmost confidence that the depth and breadth of Dr Stephenson’s experience will allow her to run the EHRC with integrity and professionalism. I am particularly encouraged by the balance of her experience across equalities and human rights.

    I look forward to working with her on our shared mission to ensure that background is no barrier to success across the  country.

    Dr Stephenson said:

    It is a great honour to be appointed as the new Chair of the Equality and Human Rights Commission at such a critical time.

    I have spent over 30 years building my career across the equality and human rights sector and I am delighted to have the opportunity  to bring my  insight and experience to lead the EHRC with compassion, honesty and dedication.

    I look forward to working with the Government and all stakeholders alongside my new colleagues at the EHRC to uphold equality and human rights and ensure that everyone is treated with respect and dignity.

    Dr Zubaida Haque, former Deputy Director and Interim Director of Runnymede Trust said: 

    As the former Deputy Director and Interim Director of the Runnymede Trust during pivotal moments like the Windrush Scandal and the global Black Lives Matter protests, I know how important it is to centre the voices and experiences of Black and minority ethnic communities in public policymaking. 

    Having worked closely with Dr Mary-Ann Stephenson for nearly a decade, I can say without hesitation that Dr Stephenson has a very strong understanding of race, intersectionality, and the importance of including marginalised voices in all aspects of policy and decision-making. 

    We are living in uncertain political and economic times. Dr Stephenson’s extensive experience and leadership in equality and human rights is exactly what the EHRC needs right now.

    Ali Harris, Chief Executive Officer of Equally Ours said:

    Equally Ours has worked closely with Dr Stephenson for many years as director of the Women’s Budget Group. 

    At this critical time for people’s equality and human rights, Dr Stephenson will bring to this important role the ability to address complex issues, and the commitment to seeking to find solutions that work for everyone, through integrity and constructive dialogue.

    The current chair Baroness Falkner’s term is due to end on 30 November 2025. Dr Stephenson will therefore begin her position on 1 December 2025.

    The government is committed to ensuring that people of all backgrounds can thrive. The EHRC plays a vital role in upholding and promoting equality and human rights across England and Wales.

    The EHRC is independent of the government and makes its own enforcement decisions, including about any inquiries and investigations it decides to conduct.

    Updates to this page

    Published 31 July 2025

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI: Middlefield Banc Corp. Announces Additions to Banking Team

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    John Cunningham appointed Northeast Ohio Commercial Market Executive
    Thomas Young appointed Northeast Ohio Commercial Relationship Manager
    Nick Paradiso appointed Central Ohio Commercial Relationship Manager
    Middlefield also announces the retirement of Jack Gregorin Northeast Ohio Commercial Relationship Manager

    MIDDLEFIELD, Ohio, July 31, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Middlefield Banc Corp. (NASDAQ: MBCN) today announced that John Cunningham has been appointed Northeast Ohio Commercial Market Executive, Thomas Young has been appointed Northeast Ohio Commercial Relationship Manager, and Nick Paradiso has been appointed Central Ohio Commercial Relationship Manager. These additions reflect Middlefield’s continued commitment to expanding its commercial banking capabilities and delivering strong relationship-driven services across its Ohio markets.

    The Company also announced the retirement of Jack Gregorin, after a 43-year banking career with the last seven years at Middlefield as the Company’s Northeast Ohio Commercial Relationship Manager.

    Ronald L. Zimmerly, Jr., President, and Chief Executive Officer, stated, “As we continue to invest in our commercial banking business, John, Tom, and Nick bring the experience, leadership, and deep community connections that will support our clients and strengthen our presence in our Northeast and Central Ohio markets. These appointments demonstrate our commitment to build high-performing teams across our Ohio communities and serve as a reliable financial partner to the region’s business community.”

    Zimmerly continued, “On behalf of the entire Middlefield family, I want to thank Jack for his years of service to the Bank. For 43 years, Jack has provided commercial customers throughout Ohio with integrity and proven financial advice. I wish Jack well on his next chapter.”

    John Cunningham Appointed SVP, Northeast Ohio Commercial Market Executive
    In this role, Cunningham will oversee Middlefield’s commercial growth strategy and relationship management across the Company’s Northeast Ohio footprint. With nearly 30 years of banking experience and a reputation for building high-performing teams, Cunningham brings significant expertise in commercial real estate and middle market banking. From 2021 to 2025, Cunningham was the SVP – Senior Managing Director, Commercial Real Estate at Premier Bank. Prior to this, he held positions at TCF Bank / Chemical Bank, The Home Saving and Loan Bank, Huntington National Bank, National City Bank, and Associates First Capital Corporation.

    As a Northeast Ohio native, Cunningham holds degrees from Miami University and Case Western Reserve University’s Weatherhead School of Business. Beyond banking, he’s a passionate supporter of the arts, having recently completed eight years of service as Trustee and Treasurer for the Valley Arts Center in Chagrin Falls.

    Thomas Young Appointed VP, Northeast Ohio Commercial Relationship Manager
    As VP, Northeast Ohio Commercial Relationship Manager, Young will focus on delivering strategic advice to business clients in the Northeast Ohio Region, helping them improve cash flow, finance key assets, and mitigate risk. With a strong analytical skillset and a passion for supporting business growth, Young has built a career helping clients navigate change and seize opportunity.   Most recently, he was VP, Senior Business Banking Relationship Manager at U.S. Bank from 2023 to 2025. His prior experience includes roles at First Federal of Lakewood, First National Bank of Pennsylvania, PNC Bank, FirstMerit Bank, Huntington National Bank, and KeyBank.

    Young holds degrees from Louisiana State University – Shreveport, and Myers University. He has also played a leadership role in local economic development, having served as Director and Past Board President of the Mentor Economic Assistance Corporation (MEACO).

    Nick Paradiso Appointed VP, Central Ohio Commercial Relationship Manager
    As VP, Central Ohio Commercial Relationship Manager, Paradiso will focus on delivering strategic advice to business clients within Central Ohio, helping them improve cash flow, finance key assets, and mitigate risk. With over 15 years of experience in banking, Paradiso is a seasoned commercial lender providing customized financing solutions to small and medium-sized businesses. Most recently, he was VP, Commercial Lending at Civista Bank from 2023 to 2025. His prior experience includes roles at LCNB National Bank, CFBank, Huntington National Bank, and Fifth Third Bank.

    Paradiso holds degrees from John Carroll University and the University of Dayton. He is active across the Columbus community and is currently a member of the Short North Rotary Club, Association for Corporate Growth, Columbus Italian Club, Franklinton Board of Trade, Ohio Business Brokers Association, and Columbus Chamber.

    About Middlefield Banc Corp.
    Middlefield Banc Corp., headquartered in Middlefield, Ohio, is the Bank holding Company of The Middlefield Banking Company, with total assets of $1.92 billion at June 30, 2025. The Bank operates 21 full-service banking centers and an LPL Financial® brokerage office serving Ada, Beachwood, Bellefontaine, Chardon, Cortland, Dublin, Garrettsville, Kenton, Mantua, Marysville, Middlefield, Newbury, Orwell, Plain City, Powell, Solon, Sunbury, Twinsburg, and Westerville. The Bank also operates a Loan Production Office in Mentor, Ohio.

    Additional information is available at www.middlefieldbank.bank

    FORWARD-LOOKING STATEMENTS
    This press release of Middlefield Banc Corp. and the reports Middlefield Banc Corp. files with the Securities and Exchange Commission often contain “forward-looking statements” relating to present or future trends or factors affecting the banking industry and, specifically, the financial operations, markets and products of Middlefield Banc Corp. These forward-looking statements involve certain risks and uncertainties. There are a number of important factors that could cause Middlefield Banc Corp.’s future results to differ materially from historical performance or projected performance. These factors include, but are not limited to: (1) a significant increase in competitive pressures among financial institutions; (2) changes in the interest rate environment that may reduce interest margins; (3) changes in prepayment speeds, charge-offs and loan loss provisions; (4) less favorable than expected general economic conditions; (5) legislative or regulatory changes that may adversely affect businesses in which Middlefield Banc Corp. is engaged; (6) technological issues which may adversely affect Middlefield Banc Corp.’s financial operations or customers; (7) changes in the securities markets; or (8) risk factors mentioned in the reports and registration statements Middlefield Banc Corp. files with the Securities and Exchange Commission. Middlefield Banc Corp. undertakes no obligation to release revisions to these forward-looking statements or to reflect events or circumstances after the date of this press release.

    Company Contact: Investor and Media Contact:
    Ron Zimmerly
    President and Chief Executive Officer
    Middlefield Banc Corp.
    (419) 673-1217
    RZimmerly@middlefieldbank.com    		 Andrew M. Berger
    Managing Director
    SM Berger & Company, Inc.
    (216) 464-6400
    andrew@smberger.com

    Photos accompanying this announcement are available at
    https://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/56766f6d-9249-44ca-8226-d735f1753dd7
    https://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/9adb82cd-789f-4649-9e89-d04cfa08261b
    https://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/e069967c-0af2-46c4-8ef6-d562ac773761

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI Submissions: Medieval skeletons reveal the lasting damage of childhood malnutrition – new study

    Source: The Conversation – UK – By Julia Beaumont, Researcher in Biological Anthropology, University of Bradford

    Beneath churchyards in London and Lincolnshire lie the chemical echoes of famine, infection and survival preserved in the teeth of those who lived through some of the most catastrophic periods in English history.

    In a new study, my colleagues and I examined over 270 medieval skeletons to investigate how early-life malnutrition affected long-term health and life expectancy.

    We focused on people who lived through the devastating period surrounding the Black Death (1348-1350), which included years of famine during the little ice age and the great bovine pestilence (an epidemic that killed two-thirds of cattle in England and Wales). We found that the biological scars of childhood deprivation during this time left lasting marks on the body.

    These findings suggest that early nutritional stress, whether in the 14th century or today, can have consequences that endure well beyond childhood.

    Children’s teeth act like tiny time capsules. The hard layer inside each tooth, called dentine, sits beneath the enamel and forms while we’re growing up. Once formed, it stays unchanged for life, creating a permanent record of what we ate and experienced.

    As our teeth develop, they absorb different chemical versions (isotopes) of carbon and nitrogen from our food, and these get locked into the tooth structure. This means scientists can read the story of someone’s childhood diet by analysing their teeth.

    A method of measuring the chemical changes in sequential slices of the teeth is a recent advance used to identify dietary changes in past populations with greater accuracy.

    When children are starving, their bodies break down their fat stores and muscle to continue growing. This gives a different signature in the newly formed dentine than the isotopes from food. These signatures make centuries-old famines visible today, showing exactly how childhood trauma affected health in medieval times.

    We identified a distinctive pattern that had been seen before in victims of the great Irish famine. Normally, when people eat a typical diet, the levels of carbon and nitrogen in their teeth move in the same direction. For example, both might rise or fall together if someone eats more plants or animals. This is called “covariance” because the two markers vary together.

    But during starvation, nitrogen levels in the teeth rise while carbon levels stay the same or drop. This opposite movement – called “opposing covariance” – is like a red flag in the teeth that shows when a child was starving. These patterns helped us pinpoint the ages at which people experienced malnutrition.

    Lifelong legacy

    Children who survived this period reached adulthood during the plague years, and the effect on their growth was recorded in the chemical signals in their teeth. People with famine markers in their dentine had different mortality rates than those who lacked these markers.

    Children who are nutritionally deprived have poorer outcomes in later life: studies of modern children have suggested that children of low birth weight or who suffer stresses during the first 1,000 days of life have long-term effects on their health.

    For example, babies born small, a possible sign of nutritional stress, seem to be more prone to illnesses such as heart disease and diabetes in adulthood than the population at large. These characteristics can also be passed to future offspring through changes in how genes are switched on or off, known as “epigenetic effects” – which can endure for three generations.

    Epigenetics explained.

    In medieval England, early nutritional deprivation may have been beneficial during catastrophic times by producing adults of short stature and the capacity to store fat, but these people were much more likely to die after the age of 30 than their peers with healthy childhood dentine patterns.

    The patterns for childhood starvation increased in the decades leading up to the Black Death and declined after 1350. This suggests the pandemic may have indirectly improved living conditions by reducing population pressure and increasing access to food.

    The medieval teeth tell us something urgent about today. Right now, millions of children worldwide are experiencing the same nutritional crises that scarred those long-dead English villagers – whether from wars in Gaza and Ukraine or poverty in countless countries.

    Their bodies are writing the same chemical stories of survival into their growing bones and teeth, creating biological problems that will emerge decades later as heart disease, diabetes and early death.

    Our latest findings aren’t just historical curiosities; they’re an urgent warning that the children we fail to nourish today will carry those failures in their bodies for life and pass them on to their own children. The message from the medieval graves couldn’t be clearer: feed the children now or pay the price for generations.

    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.

    Julia Beaumont receives funding from Arts and Humanities research council, British Academy/Leverhulme.

    – ref. Medieval skeletons reveal the lasting damage of childhood malnutrition – new study – https://theconversation.com/medieval-skeletons-reveal-the-lasting-damage-of-childhood-malnutrition-new-study-262081

    MIL OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Submissions: Weight loss drug demand continues to grow in the UK – here’s what’s being done to keep supplies readily available

    Source: The Conversation – UK – By Liz Breen, Professor of Health Service Operations, School of Pharmacy & Medical Sciences, University of Bradford

    Demand for weight loss jabs has surged in the UK. Mohammed_Al_Ali/ Shutterstock

    Over a fifth of people in the UK have tried to access a weight loss drug in the last year, according to a recent poll.

    Weight loss jabs such as Mounjaro (tirzepatide) and Wegovy (semaglutide) are very effective in managing obesity. Clinical trials have shown that some people lose up to 26% of their body weight while using these drugs.

    With this impact, it’s no wonder a growing number of people are seeking out these products – often buying them in private clinics or online. But with plans to expand access to these drugs through NHS prescriptions, there are concerns that supply may not meet demand – especially for those people in most need.

    In the UK, NHS prescriptions for weight loss jabs are only approved for people who meet strict eligibility requirements. For example, to qualify early for Mounjaro from your GP, you must have health problems due to your weight and a body mass index greater than 40 (adjusted for ethnicity). People assessed by the NHS and given prescriptions will also have access to additional support – such as advice about diet and physical activity.

    Weight loss drugs can be prescribed by specialist clinics and, increasingly, local GPs. But a lack of time and resources means even those who are eligible are left waiting. Consequently, people who can afford to do so are approaching private providers for access to these medicines – despite the potential risks to their health.

    There’s also evidence that people who aren’t clinically eligible for weight loss jabs prescribed by the NHS are purchasing them from online pharmacies.

    Supply issues

    Demand for weight loss jabs is about to grow, as the provision of Mounjaro via GPs is imminent, pending the creation of an infrastructure to support safe local prescribing.

    The number of monthly GP prescriptions in England for Mounjaro has already risen from under 3,000 in March 2024 (on introduction) to over 200,000 in May 2025. Mounjaro (also marketed in the US as Zepbound) is widely considered to be the best weight loss jab currently available and a great commercial success.

    GP prescriptions of all forms of semaglutide (the active ingredient in Wegovy) are more stable, at around 130,000 items per month (including generics and products to treat diabetes).

    While a number of GLP-1 drugs faced shortages last year (including Wegovy and Mounjaro), these shortages have now been resolved. Shortages were spurred by a spike in global demand for these drugs alongside stockpiling by private clinics to feed requests.

    Still, there were reports early this year that certain strengths of Mounjaro were difficult to access. The reasons for this are not clear, but may be due to the novelty of access to this new medication or a lack of access to alternatives.

    Around 220,000 people in England are due to be offered Mounjaro via the NHS over the next three years. However, it’s estimated that 3.4 million people in England could actually be eligible for Mounjaro.

    Mounjaro will initially be offered to 220,000 people on the NHS over the next three years.
    Cynthia A Jackson/ Shutterstock

    Wider NHS access to this drug is being phased to manage staff workload and ensure good support for patients. Phased rollout may also help to ensure there is enough supply for those who need to be prescribed one of these medications.

    Future access

    It’s likely that demand for these weight loss drugs will only continue to grow in the UK, so it’s important that supply is readily available.

    Regulatory agencies have taken some steps to tighten controls of online prescribing of weight loss drugs and prevent misuse. Registered online pharmacies must seek independent verification of key clinical information (such as from a GP or through a person’s medical records) instead of relying on questionnaires or phone calls.

    However, weight loss products remain easy to access for people with money and savvy search skills, but who may be clinically ineligible. The scale of demand from this group is difficult to quantify, but it’s clear more needs to be done to keep patients safe and manage demand.

    Several new weight loss drugs are undergoing trials in the UK. These drugs will work similarly to those already available but may be administered differently (such as an oral tablet). The trials for these and subsequent approvals will not only increase market competition, but also improve patient access and choice.

    Key patents for the manufacture of semaglutide are also due to expire in 2026 and 2031. Once a pharmaceutical product is outside of its patented time frame, other companies can be approved to manufacture it as a generic product.

    A generic product is approved on the basis that it works in the same manner and has equal benefits to the original product. The generics market allows new entrants and new versions of these very popular products onto the market.

    Generic products are usually less expensive and so are bought (where still clinically safe and effective) by the NHS. This change could provide greater access to weight loss medications and save the NHS and patients money in the long term.

    Generic semaglutide products will probably be available in the UK from 2032 but will be initially authorised to treat diabetes rather than weight loss. Still, this should have a positive impact on the availability of prescription drugs used for both diabetes and weight management.

    Generic liraglutide is already available on the NHS for the treatment of diabetes. The liraglutide brand Saxenda is also marketed for weight management. However, liraglutide is less effective than Wegovy or Mounjaro and requires daily injections.

    The number of monthly NHS prescriptions for liraglutide has fallen from over 40,000 in July 2020 to 1,000 in May 2025. This fall was most likely influenced by the discontinuation of the Victoza brand for type 2 diabetes in late 2024. Shortages of all types of GLP-1 drugs, which lasted until the end of 2024, may also have impacted demand for liraglutide.

    For now, NHS staff can report on known demand for these products to inform manufacturing quantities and procurement. What isn’t known is the future demand for online or private purchases of weight management drugs. It’s this “unknown” demand that may mean supply security is challenged and unsustainable.

    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.

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

    – ref. Weight loss drug demand continues to grow in the UK – here’s what’s being done to keep supplies readily available – https://theconversation.com/weight-loss-drug-demand-continues-to-grow-in-the-uk-heres-whats-being-done-to-keep-supplies-readily-available-262065

    MIL OSI –