NewzIntel.com

Category: Universities

  • MIL-OSI Russia: Digital Innovations: GUU took part in the strategic session of the RosGeoTech PIS

    Translartion. Region: Russians Fedetion –

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

    The State University of Management took part in a strategic session dedicated to the implementation of the Development Program of the Advanced Engineering School “RosGeoTech”.

    The meeting took place at the Grozny State Oil Technical University named after Academician M.D. Millionshchikov.

    The discussion was attended by the rector of the State University of Management Vladimir Stroyev, the vice-rector Maria Karelina, the rector of the State Petroleum Technical University Magomed Mintsayev, the head of the RosGeoTech PISh Andrey Luzhetsky, the first vice-rector Ibragim Gayrabekov, the vice-rector for research work Magomed Saidumov and other representatives of the partner universities and the project team.

    The agenda included discussions on the implementation of the main directions of the RosGeoTech PISh Program for 2025 and ways to achieve target indicators, indicators, and project effectiveness.

    Vladimir Stroyev noted that the RosGeoTech PISh solves problems not only in the interests of universities, but also reflects the most important national priorities. Despite serious competition, the school demonstrates high efficiency and remains promising.

    Rector of GGNTU Magomed Mintsaev noted that large-scale work had been carried out over the past year, which resulted in the school’s status being raised and transferred to the second group, with a grant of over 210 million rubles being received.

    Andrey Luzhetskiy emphasized that the achieved results are the result of the team’s joint work. The project has proven its viability and potential for scaling.

    During the session, an agreement was also signed on the creation of a special educational space – the ABRIS laboratory of digital innovations in industry.

    After the strategic session, representatives of the State University of Management and GGNTU met with students of the Advanced Engineering School “RosGeoTech”, where they told the children about their opportunities for growth and development within the framework of the Advanced Engineering School, answered their questions and wished the children success.

    Then the PISH team went to the Institute of Oil and Gas of the GGNTU named after academician M.D. Millionshchikov, where they were shown the results of the work on creating new special educational spaces within the framework of the Advanced Engineering School “RosGeoTech”.

    Let us recall that the RosGeoTech PISh project is being implemented by the State University of Management and the State Petroleum Technological University named after academician M.D. Millionshchikov in active cooperation with industrial partners PJSC NK Rosneft, JSC Grozneftegaz, JSC Chechenneftekhimprom, LLC NTC ZERS and others.

    Subscribe to the TG channel “Our GUU” Date of publication: 04/17/2025

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

    MIL OSI Russia News –

  • MIL-Evening Report: Could you accidentally sign a contract by texting an emoji? Here’s what the law says

    Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Jennifer McKay, Professor in Business Law, University of South Australia

    Parkova/Shutterstock

    Could someone take you to court over an agreement you made – or at least appeared to make – by sending a “👍”?

    Emojis can have more legal weight than many people realise. A search of the Australasian Legal Information Institute database reveals emojis have been part of evidence in at least 240 cases in the past few years.

    Their use in texts and emails has been considered in unfair dismissals, wills, family law and criminal cases.

    Australian law does not explicitly address the use of emojis in contracts. And although emojis have been accepted in evidence, the context in which they are used is always a crucial part of the picture.

    Here’s what you need to know about what makes a contract under the law – and why you might want to be especially cautious with the “🤝” button.

    Is it a casual agreement or a contract?

    Contracts don’t have to be printed on paper and signed in a lawyer’s office.

    In Australia, a contract is generally considered legally binding if it meets certain requirements. There has to be:

    • an intention to create legal relations
    • a clear unequivocal offer
    • certainty and completeness of terms
    • “consideration” – the price exchanged for the promise made
    • clearly communicated acceptance
    • no “vitiating factors” – things that could spoil the contract such as unconscionable conduct or duress.

    Indeed, case law supports the notion that contracts can be partly oral and partly written. But the oral terms cannot contradict the terms of the written agreement.

    Contracts can also incorporate graphics. The former chief justice of the High Court of Australia, Robert French AC, said in December 2017:

    There is no reason in principle why pictorial contracts explained orally or supplemented textually or contextually could not be enforceable in the same way as any other contract.

    Contracts don’t always have to be written.
    PeopleImages.com – Yuri A/Shutterstock

    ‘I hereby accept’

    In contract cases, courts often use what’s called an objective test to consider whether a reasonable person would conclude the parties intended to create a binding contract.

    In Australian law, parties to a contract must clearly communicate that they accept its terms.

    Social and domestic agreements are presumed not to create legal intent, unless proven otherwise. But with extensive use of texts and emails with emojis now, there is less clarity about what is a social and domestic agreement.

    Commercial and business contracts are presumed to have contractual intent. However, even in business contracts, emojis may be deemed to amount to acceptance, depending on the past behaviour of the parties.

    That’s because many emojis are ambiguous.

    In one situation, a thumbs up (👍) might mean “I have something”, but in another it could mean “I agree to it”. A smiley face is the same so context is crucial. The least ambiguous is arguably the handshake emoji – 🤝.

    Careful of the handshake emoji – it generally signals agreement.
    Yuri A/Shutterstock

    The experience overseas

    A number of cases from overseas show how emojis sent in response to an offer can lead to unintended contracting.

    They can induce what the law calls “reasonable reliance” of one party on the other, more than “bare hope” an agreement can be relied upon. This can subject the sender to liability if that reliance is misplaced.

    One 2023 case in Canada centred on a thumbs-up emoji sent in response to a proposal for the purchase of flax.

    Here, the court ruled that the emoji did signify agreement to the terms, similar to a written signature. It had been habitually used between the buyer and seller in a longstanding business relationship.

    Because of this repeated use, the court ruled, a reasonable bystander would conclude the emoji response created a binding agreement.

    Borrowing a big boat

    A subsequent case, in the United Kingdom, centred on an alleged four-year “charterparty” agreement to hire a large crude oil tanker called the “Aquafreedom” between Southeaster, its owners and the logistics company Trafigura.

    Trafigura claimed a binding agreement to charter the ship had been reached, following a period of offers and counteroffers. But the vessel’s owner Southeaster disagreed. Trafigura claimed it had suffered about US$15 million in lost business as a result.

    The evidence in this case was principally a bundle of written communications between the parties, including email, telephone and WhatsApp communications.

    While the court ultimately ruled no contract had been entered into, it found that more informal communications used in evidence, including WhatsApp messages containing emojis, shouldn’t be given less weight than email communications.

    The court found WhatsApp messages – including those with emojis – shouldn’t be disregarded.
    BigTunaOnline/Shutterstock

    What can you do?

    Here are some helpful hints for navigating the use of emojis, especially when buying or selling anything, running your own business or sending messages at work:

    • be careful when discussing services or purchase of goods over text
    • when acknowledging receipt of a contract, it’s safest to clearly state that you will review the terms and get back to the sender
    • do not use an emoji on its own
    • do not use the handshake emoji
    • keep business-like arrangements on a more formal footing.

    Remember, context remains important and past behaviour is critical.

    The author would like to acknowledge the contribution of Mark Giancaspro, senior lecturer in law at the University of Adelaide, for assistance in the preparation of this article.

    Jennifer McKay receives research funding from CRC Race 2030.

    – ref. Could you accidentally sign a contract by texting an emoji? Here’s what the law says – https://theconversation.com/could-you-accidentally-sign-a-contract-by-texting-an-emoji-heres-what-the-law-says-252287

    MIL OSI Analysis – EveningReport.nz –

  • MIL-Evening Report: Why do scientists want to spend billions on a 70-year project in an enormous tunnel under the Swiss Alps?

    Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Tessa Charles, Accelerator Physicist, Monash University

    An artist’s impression of the tunnel of the proposed Future Circular Collider. CERN

    The Large Hadron Collider has been responsible for astounding advances in physics: the discovery of the elusive, long-sought Higgs boson as well as other new exotic particles, possible hints of new forces of nature, and more.

    Located at the European Organization for Nuclear Research (CERN) on the border of France and Switzerland, the LHC is expected to run for another 15 years. Nevertheless, physicists are already planning what will come after it.

    One of the most favoured proposals for CERN’s next step is the 70-year Future Circular Collider (FCC) project. More than three times the size of the LHC, this enormous proposed machine promises to resolve some mysteries of the universe – and undoubtedly reveal some new ones.

    What will the Future Circular Collider do?

    The LHC, which occupies a circular tunnel 27 kilometres in circumference, is currently the largest machine in the world. The FCC would be housed in a much larger 91km tunnel in the Geneva basin between the Jura mountains and the Alps.

    The first stage of the FCC would be the construction and operation of a collider for electrons (the lightweight particles that make up the outer shell of atoms) and positrons (the antimatter mirror images of electrons). This collider would allow more precise measurements of the Higgs boson.

    The planned Future Circular Collider would occupy a tunnel 91 kilometres long, dwarfing the 27-kilometre Large Hadron Collider.
    CERN

    The second stage would be a collider for protons (heavier particles found in the cores of atoms). The LHC already collides protons, but the new collider would accelerate the protons up to more than seven times as much energy.

    This increase in collision energy allows for the discovery of particles never produced by humanity before. It also brings with it technical challenges, such as the development of high-powered superconducting magnets.

    Known unknowns

    The most high-profile result from the LHC has been the discovery of the Higgs boson, which lets us explain why particles in the universe have mass: they interact with the so-called Higgs field which permeates all of space.

    This was a great victory for what we call the Standard Model. This is the theory that, to the best of our current knowledge, explains all the fundamental particles in the universe and their interactions.

    However, the Standard Model has significant weaknesses, and leaves some crucial questions unanswered.

    The FCC promises to answer some of these questions.

    Collisions between high-energy particles may shed light on several unanswered questions of physics.
    CERN

    For example, we know the Higgs field can explain the mass of heavy particles. However, it is possible that a completely different mechanism provides mass to lighter particles.

    We also want to know whether the Higgs field gives mass to the Higgs boson itself. To answer these Higgs questions we will need the higher energies that the FCC will provide.

    The FCC will also let us take a closer look at the interactions of very heavy quarks. (Quarks are the tiniest components of protons and some other particles.) We hope this may shed light on the question of why the universe contains so much more matter than antimatter.

    And the FCC will help us look for new particles that might be dark matter, a mysterious substance that seems to pervade the universe.

    Of course, there is no guarantee that the FCC will provide the answers to these questions. That is the nature of curiosity-driven research. You know the journey, but not the destination.

    Competing colliders

    The FCC is not the only major particle physics project under consideration.

    Another is a proposed 20-kilometre machine called the International Linear Collider, which would likely be built in Japan.

    The US has several projects on the go, mainly detectors of various kinds. It also supports an “offshore Higgs factory”, located in Europe or Japan.

    One project that may concern the FCC’s backers is the planned 100 kilometre Chinese Electron Positron Collider (CEPC), which has significant similarities to the FCC.

    This poses a dilemma for Europe: if China goes ahead with their project, is the FCC still worthwhile? On the other hand, CERN chief Fabiola Gianotti has argued that the FCC is necessary to keep up with China.

    High costs

    The decision on the FCC won’t be taken lightly, given the large cost associated with the project.

    CERN estimates the first stage will cost 15 billion Swiss francs (around US$18 billion or A$28 billion at current exchange rates), spread out over 12 years. One third of this cost is the tunnel construction.

    The size of the sum has attracted criticism. However, a CERN spokesperson told the Agence France-Press that up to 80% of the cost would be covered by the organisation’s current annual budget.

    The second stage of FCC, which would reuse the 91km tunnel as well as some existing LHC infrastructure, is currently estimated to cost 19 billion Swiss francs. This costing carries a large uncertainty, as the second stage would not be commissioned until 2070 at the earliest.

    Benefits beyond science

    Pure science has not been the only benefit of the LHC. There have been plenty of practical technological spinoffs, from medical technology to open and free software.

    One specific example is the Medipix chips developed for a detector at the LHC, which are now used across multiple areas in medical imaging and material science.

    For the past 70 years, CERN has served as a fantastic model for peaceful and efficient international collaboration. Beyond its astonishing scientific output, it has also produced significant advances in engineering that have spread through society. Building the FCC will be an investment in both technology and curiosity.

    Tessa Charles has previously received funding through an EU Horizon 2020 project, the FCC Innovation Study (FCCIS).

    Ulrik Egede receives funding from the Australian Research Council to carry out research at the Large Hadron Collider. He is representing southeast Asia and Australia/NZ on the International Committee of Future Accelerators.

    – ref. Why do scientists want to spend billions on a 70-year project in an enormous tunnel under the Swiss Alps? – https://theconversation.com/why-do-scientists-want-to-spend-billions-on-a-70-year-project-in-an-enormous-tunnel-under-the-swiss-alps-254577

    MIL OSI Analysis – EveningReport.nz –

  • MIL-OSI China: Lawsuits filed against cancellation of visas

    Source: China State Council Information Office

    Zhuo’er Chen is a student pursuing a master’s degree in architecture at the University of California, Berkeley. She is set to graduate next month. However, her student visa was suddenly terminated by the US Immigration and Customs Enforcement, or ICE, on April 8.

    It seems that thousands of students have had a similar experience.

    According to a report by the Association of International Educators, as of Monday, there have been almost 1,300 reports of international students and scholars either having their visas revoked or their records in the Student and Exchange Visitor Information System, or SEVIS, terminated. The affected include undergraduate, graduate and Optional Practical Training students.

    Chen, joined by another three Chinese students whose visas were terminated, filed a federal lawsuit in the US District Court in the Northern District of California last week.

    The suit alleges that “without notice, explanation, or any form of due process, ICE terminated the student status of individuals who have done nothing more than maintaining academic standing and complying with their visa requirements”.

    Plaintiff Mengcheng Yu, who has lived in the United States since age 16, is also close to completing her master’s degree at Carnegie Mellon University. She is set to graduate in August this year.

    Plaintiff Jiarong Ouyang is from University of Cincinnati, and Plaintiff Gexi Guo is a graduate of Columbia University currently residing in New York.

    “This lawsuit seeks declaratory and injunctive relief to halt this unlawful pattern of SEVIS record terminations, restore plaintiffs’ legal status, and prevent further irreparable harm to their educational trajectories, professional futures and immigration standing,” the lawsuit document stated.

    The lawsuit named Kristi Noem, secretary of the US Department of Homeland Security, or DHS, and Todd Lyons, acting director of ICE, as the defendants. The plaintiffs are represented by DeHeng Law Offices.

    The plaintiffs challenge ICE’s actions “for being arbitrary, capricious and contrary to law, and assert that the lack of due process also violates their constitutional rights under the Fifth Amendment and the Equal Protection Clause”.

    The lawsuit argues that DHS and ICE may unilaterally strip students of lawful status through SEVIS without legal authority, in defiance of regulatory limits, and without affording any procedural safeguards.

    ‘Abrupt and sudden’

    Clay Zhu, one of the lawyers representing the students, said in a virtual meeting on Monday that they have received a lot of information from students “telling us about an abrupt and sudden cancellation of their F-1 visa and service records”.

    He said a team of five lawyers worked overtime in the last five days to investigate the situation.

    “There is no pattern based on the information I have right now. Some of the students have arrest records but have never been convicted. Some of them have minor traffic violations, and some of them have a very clean record. So, it is random to me, and there’s no explanation being provided by the agency as to why this is happening on a blanket scale. This is unprecedented,” Zhu said.

    He said the termination of student status has been done in the past on a very individualized basis for failing to maintain full-time student status or being convicted of committing some kind of serious crime.

    “Those basically are forcing the students to self-deport,” Zhu said. “They have to leave the country right away. Otherwise, they would incur the so-called unlawful presence under immigration law.”

    “Our goal is, of course, not to just represent those four students. Our goal is to seek a nationwide temporary restraining order and also an injunction against this kind of practice. We’re trying to restore service records for all the affected students,” Zhu said.

    Lawsuits have also been filed on behalf of the students whose visas were terminated without notice. Atlanta law firm Kuck Baxter filed a lawsuit representing 17 international students from several states.

    Nineteen state attorneys general from Arizona, California, Michigan, New York and others have asked a federal judge to stop the Trump administration from canceling international student visas.

    It appears that visa cancellation is not limited to international students. The Cougar, a news outlet at the University of Houston, reported on Sunday that a professor’s visa was terminated unexpectedly.

    Without disclosing the identity of the professor, The Cougar reported that another professor had to step in for the rest of the semester while the issue was being resolved.

    MIL OSI China News –

  • MIL-Evening Report: Why healthy eating may be the best way to reduce food waste

    Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Trang Nguyen, Postdoctoral Research Fellow, Centre for Global Food and Resources, University of Adelaide

    Stokkete, Shutterstock

    Australians waste around 7.68 million tonnes of food a year. This costs the economy an estimated A$36.6 billion and households up to $2,500 annually.

    Much of this food is wasted at home. So while consumers are increasingly aware of sustainability issues, awareness does not always translate into better food management in practice.

    Our previous research revealed people differ in the ways they generate and dispose of food waste.

    Our latest study takes a closer look at two groups who care deeply about food, for different reasons. It exposes a paradox: people who prioritise healthy eating waste less food, while those focused on sustainability do not necessarily follow through with waste reduction.

    This suggests encouraging healthier eating habits might be a better way to cut household food waste than sustainability messaging alone.

    Sustainability awareness doesn’t always mean less waste

    To understand how food values influence waste, we surveyed 1,030 Australian consumers living in Adelaide between April and May 2021. We set quotas for age, sex and household income to match national demographics.

    We wanted to find out who wasted more food: nutrition-conscious or sustainability-conscious consumers?

    We asked each person how they plan meals and shop, what they value when buying food, and how much food they throw away each week.

    Our results show nutrition-conscious consumers tend to plan meals in advance, use shopping lists and avoid over-purchasing. These behaviours contribute to both a healthier diet and less food waste.

    We found consumers who make more nutrition-conscious food choices tended to waste less edible food. A one-point increase on our nutrition scale corresponded to a 17.6% reduction in food waste, compared to people with lower scores on the nutrition scale.

    On the other hand, those who prioritise sustainability over nutrition did not show any significant reduction in edible food waste.

    These consumers tend to choose environmentally friendly products. They typically prefer to shop locally, buy organic produce and avoid excessive food packaging. But that does not necessarily translate into waste-reducing behaviours.

    Those concerned with sustainability tend to buy more food than they need. They have good intentions, but lack strategies to manage and consume the food efficiently. Unfortunately this means sustainably sourced food often ends up in landfill.

    Teaching children to prepare healthy food for themselves can help reduce waste.
    Oksana Kuzmina, Shutterstock

    Integrating nutrition and food waste messaging

    Our research reveals a disconnect between purchasing choices and what actually happens to the food at home.

    This highlights an opportunity for policymakers and campaigns aimed at reducing food waste. Rather than focusing solely on sustainability, including messages about improving nutrition can boost health and reduce food waste at the same time.

    Some successful interventions already demonstrate the potential of this approach. For example, an Australian school-based program found children involved in preparing their own meals wasted less food than they did before the program began.

    These students learned about food waste and healthy eating, participated in workshops on meal preparation and composting, and helped pack their own lunches – with less food waste as a result.

    5 ways to reduce food waste

    So, what can households do to reduce food waste while maintaining a healthy diet? Our research suggests the following key strategies:

    1. plan ahead – creating a weekly meal plan and shopping list helps prevent impulse purchases and ensures food is consumed before it spoils

    2. buy only what you need – over-purchasing, even of sustainable products, can lead to unnecessary waste

    3. store food properly – understanding how to store fresh produce, dairy, and leftovers can significantly extend their shelf life

    4. prioritise nutrition – choosing foods that fit into a balanced diet naturally leads to better portion control and mindful consumption, reducing waste

    5. use what you have – before shopping, check your fridge and pantry to incorporate existing ingredients into meals.

    The Great Unwaste is a nationwide movement to end food waste.

    Reducing waste is a bonus

    People are often more motivated by personal health benefits than abstract environmental concerns. Our research suggests this is the key to reducing household food waste.

    Encouraging meal planning for a balanced diet, careful shopping to avoid over-purchasing, and proper food storage, can make a big difference to the amount of food being wasted. This will not only help households save thousands of dollars each year, but also promote healthy eating habits.

    Ultimately, developing a more sustainable food system is not just about buying the right products. It’s about how we manage, prepare and consume them.

    Trang Nguyen receives funding from the End Food Waste Cooperative Research Centre and the Australian Government.

    Jack Hetherington receives funding from the End Food Waste Cooperative Research Centre and the Australian Government and is a member of the Landcare Association of South Australia volunteer Management Committee.

    Patrick O’Connor receives funding from the Australian Research Council, Agrifutures and the Commonwealth and State Governments

    – ref. Why healthy eating may be the best way to reduce food waste – https://theconversation.com/why-healthy-eating-may-be-the-best-way-to-reduce-food-waste-253852

    MIL OSI Analysis – EveningReport.nz –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: Seventy-six new police officers en route to districts

    Source: New Zealand Police (National News)

    Commissioner Richard Chambers, members of the police executive and wing patron Don Mann congratulated the 76 graduating constables from Wing 383 today.  Also attending and presenting a prize in absence of the Minister of Police was Mayor of Porirua Anita Baker.

    Families and friends celebrated the newly attested police officers at Te Rauparaha Arena, Porirua this afternoon to acknowledge the successful completion of their initial training course.

    There are some likeminded individuals in the wing with 19 of the graduates having family members currently working in police. Five officers worked for police in non-constabulary roles before choosing to become police officers.

    Twenty two of them were born in other countries, with 15 of them speaking more than just English.

    Many of the officers are top sports players and one of them was awarded the Minister’s prize for top of wing. Constable Casey Hales is a former New Zealand representative for White-water Canoe Slalom. She’s also a current member of the Paddle Ferns – the New Zealand Women’s Canoe Polo Team and has won several international titles. She is a current world champion, having won the 2024 World Championships just three weeks before beginning her police college journey last November. She will be competing in the upcoming World Games in China later this year.

    “I have spent the better part of ten years dedicated to my sporting passion. It is a privilege to be a member of the Paddle Ferns – the New Zealand Women’s Canoe Polo team and represent New Zealand at multiple international competitions. After winning the 2024 World Championships it felt like the right time to put my paddle down for a bit and shift my energy to starting a career I have always dreamed of. “It’s an honour to be recognised as top of wing, and I had no idea I was capable of it, but I’ve been lucky enough to go through this journey supported by an amazing group of people,” says Casey.

    Casey will be based in Eastern District alongside her sister and mentor Constable Tayla Hales.

    Leadership Award winner Ethan Semple has also followed a sibling into the police service. Ethan’s brother inspired him to join police. “I was very proud of my brother when he joined the police a few years ago. I’d always felt called to join police myself but felt like I wasn’t ready. I was going from job to job for a few years, working with youth in Oranga Tamariki, security, and a few tradie jobs. I was never satisfied with what I was doing, always feeling like it wasn’t where I was meant to be. Last year the recruiter tapped me on the shoulder so I put my name forward. As I did so, I’d never felt so sure about any job I’d applied for, and coming into college I knew I was where I am meant to be.”

    Ethan is deployed to Bay of Plenty District.

    Ten officers will head to Southern District, while nine will head to Northland District, a large number at either end of the country.

    The Northland-bound recruits is one of the biggest cohorts to head there in a long time. Regional recruiter Sergeant Joe Te Ao says it’s about making connections in the community and reaching out to people who you think may be a good fit to join police.
    “I spotted a rugby referee who also worked as an instructor at the gym. I knew he would be great in the job. I approached him and suggested he give it a go, met him at the station, had a good chat and he applied the following week. I supported him throughout the whole process and he is now at police college on Wing 386. There’s also someone graduating today who was our plumber and it’s great to watch him graduate. These are just two of many excellent people who I’ve sought out and encouraged them to join,” says Joe. 

    District Commander Northland, Superintendent Matt Srhoj says having the new officers join them in a week will be great. “We’re really excited having the extra people coming on board.  We’ve worked really hard to recruit them, and it’s good that we have filled a few gaps. Our staff up in Northland are very excited about this new team coming back.

    Southern District’s ten new officers will be deployed throughout the region to Invercargill, Queenstown, Gore and Dunedin stations.

    The rest of the wing are dispersed as follows:

    Deployment:
    Northland 9, Tāmaki Makaurau a total of 25 and broken down as follows: Auckland City – 9, Waitematā – 7, Counties Manukau – 9, Waikato – 5, Bay of Plenty – 6, Eastern – 3, Central – 3, Wellington – 7, Tasman – 3, Canterbury – 5, Southern – 10.

    The new constables will start their first week of duty in their Police districts from Monday 28 April 2025 and will continue their training on the job as probationary constables.

    All Awards:
    Minister’s Award recognising top student: Constable Casey Hales, posted to Eastern District. 
    Commissioner’s Award for Leadership: Constable Ethan Semple, posted to Bay of Plenty District.
    Patron’s Award for second in wing recognising second top student: Constable Kayla Massey-Borman, posted to Auckland City District.
    Firearms Award: Constable Ricardo Lewis, posted to Waitematā District.
    Driver Training and Road Policing Practice Award: Constable Jared Curtis posted to Bay of Plenty District.
    Physical Training and Defensive Tactics Award: Constable Jenna Dodd, posted to Counties Manukau District.

    Demographics:

    31.6 percent are female, 68.4 percent are male. New Zealand European make up 64.5 percent of the wing, with Māori 13.2 percent, Pasifika 6.6 percent, Asian 11.8 percent, LAAM 2.6 percent. 

    383 Wing Patron: Don Mann
    Don Mann (Ngāti Kahungunu, Ngāi Tūhoe and Tongan descent) is a highly regarded leader who has served in the public and private sectors, and was a New Zealand police officer for 13 years.
    Don is the CEO of Pacific Media Network, a public service multimedia entity that serves a global Pacific audience, revitalising 10 Pacific languages while promoting Pacific culture and identity.
    Before that role, Don was CEO of the Pacific Cooperation Foundation where he led indigenous economic development partnerships across the Pacific region. In 2014, Don established a corporate partnerships team at Auckland Council, playing a pivotal role in supporting Auckland’s economic development strategy. 
    As a former general manager of the New Zealand Warriors franchise Don helped lead the club to seven National Rugby League (NRL) finals series including two NRL grand finals. He is a previous winner of the Pacific Sport Administrator the Year award and was twice recognised at the Aotearoa Māori Sport Awards.
    Don joined the New Zealand Police in 1984 and was awarded first prize for general excellence in Wing 92. During his 13 years of Police service he spent seven of those as a detective in Auckland CIB specialising in homicide investigation, sexual abuse and criminal intelligence. 
    He holds a Bachelor of Business from Massey University where he won awards for business leadership and market research. He is a member of the Institute of Directors and currently serves on the Boards of Literacy Aotearoa (as Co-chair), SkyCity Auckland Community Trust, and The Rising Foundation. Don is married to Louise, a former police officer of 17 years and a current Police employee.

    Watch out for our Ten One story coming soon with more images and stories.
    If you’re interested in joining police check out newcops.govt.nz

    ENDS

    Issued by Police Media Centre

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-Evening Report: ‘We get bucketloads of homework’: young people speak about what it’s like to start high school

    Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Katherine Stevens, PhD Candidate, Education, Murdoch University

    Rawpixel.com

    Starting high school is one of the most significant transitions young people make in their education. Many different changes happen at once – from making new friends to getting used to a new school environment and different behaviour and academic expectations.

    What do young people think about this crucial time in their lives?

    In our new research we spoke to ten students in Year 7 at a co-educational school in Perth, Western Australia in 2023. Students were interviewed in Term 3 and asked to share their thoughts about what the move to high school was like. We used a focus group to allow young people to explore their thoughts in a supportive environment.

    Our current study is on a small scale. But it contributes to the growing body of research showing the importance of supporting students’ emotional wellbeing during school transitions.

    Big changes take time

    One of the key things students discussed was how it took time to adjust to high school.

    This included managing their time to fit in new study commitments, such as homework for multiple subjects. They also had to locate new classrooms: “trying to go around the school and find them was hard”.

    They noted how “different teachers have different rules […] so you gotta remember that and where you’re going”. Other students explained how there was “too much stuff for my brain to handle”.

    As another student talked about the pressure to be organised:

    It’s hard work going in from Year 6 primary school to Year 7. I can tell you that much. […] we’ve been expected from the first week to remember our timetable, be organised, not forget anything and know our classes […] it’s a lot of pressure and stress on you because we also get bucketloads of homework as well because we don’t get enough time to finish our work.

    Students spoke about needing time to adjust.
    Rawpixel.com

    Adjusting to new friendship dynamics

    Previous research has found when students start high school they are “more focussed on building new relationships and maintaining old friends”. They will then shift their focus to academic matters “later on”.

    Students in our study certainly discussed the importance of friends. Some students had looked forward to making new friends and were enjoying being able to “make some proper friends that you can actually have a proper relationship with”.

    Others spoke about their worries about not knowing anyone or having any friends (“I was always questioning myself. Am I going to make any friends?”). Others found their friendship groups changed from primary school (“I don’t talk to them as much […] it’s kind of not the same with them).

    Students also talked about how working out new friendships took time.

    you’ll find that yes, you might be friends […] but then you might find that they’re not the person who you thought they would be and you might not really want to be with them.

    A lot more work

    All students observed there was an increased workload of Year 7. Many students said they did not feel prepared for the volume of work and the time frames in which they were expected to complete it.

    Some students “found it stressful to keep on top of work”. For some “the homework load and the amount of tests that we have and assessments” were the least enjoyable features of high school. They said it felt like in Year 7, “everything is about academics”.

    But students also said they enjoyed being able to do a wider range of subjects. And the hands-on subjects such as cooking and design and technology helped them balance out more intense, academic subjects.

    Going from primary school to high school means friendships change – and it is a lot to navigate.
    Rawpixel.com/Shutterstock

    What can help Year 7s?

    While students outlined challenges about moving from Year 6 to Year 7, they also identified three things to help make the transition easier.

    1. A support network: students stressed it was important to have a support network, whether informally through fellow students, staff or a parent or formally with counselling. This is something schools can encourage with buddy groups or peer support.

    2. Extra time: students talked about the importance of teachers giving them extra time to complete work and to get used to new places and processes at high school. They were grateful to teachers who “let you develop in the classroom”.

    3. Transition programs: students said specific Year 7 transition programs – that prepare students for the new logistics and expectations – would also help. One student suggested a term in Year 6 should “replicate what it feels like to be in Year 7”.

    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. ‘We get bucketloads of homework’: young people speak about what it’s like to start high school – https://theconversation.com/we-get-bucketloads-of-homework-young-people-speak-about-what-its-like-to-start-high-school-254474

    MIL OSI Analysis – EveningReport.nz –

  • MIL-Evening Report: Why can’t I keep still after intense exercise?

    Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Ken Nosaka, Professor of Exercise and Sports Science, Edith Cowan University

    Drazen Zigic/Shutterstock

    Do you ever feel like you can’t stop moving after you’ve pushed yourself exercising? Maybe you find yourself walking around in circles when you come off the pitch, or squatting and standing and squatting again when you finish a run.

    Sometimes the body knows what’s best for us, even if we’re not aware of the science.

    Moving around after intense exercise actually helps the body recover faster. Here’s how it works – plus a tip for if you feel exactly the opposite (and just want to lie down).

    What is ‘intense’ exercise?

    There are different ways to measure exercise intensity. One is simply how hard it feels to you, known as the “rating of perceived exertion”.

    This takes into account how fast you’re breathing, how much you’re sweating and how tired your muscles are. It also considers heart rate.

    The average resting heart rate when you’re not exerting yourself is around 60–80 beats per minute, although this can vary between people.

    The maximum healthy heart rate is based on subtracting your age from 220. So, if you’re 20 years old, that’s 200 beats per minute when you’re exercising as hard as you can.

    This decreases as you age. If you’re 50 years old, your maximum heart rate would be around 170 beats per minute.

    An increased heart rate helps pump blood faster to deliver fuel and oxygen to the muscles that are working hard. Once you stop exercising your body will begin its recovery, to return to resting levels.

    Let’s look at how continuing to move after intense exercise helps do this.

    Removing waste from the muscles

    Whenever the body converts fuel into energy it also produces leftover substances, known as metabolic byproducts. This includes lactate (sometimes called lactic acid).

    During intense exercise we need to burn more fuel (oxygen and glucose) and this can make the body produce lactate much more quickly than it can clear it. When lactate accumulates in the muscles it may delay their recovery.

    We can reuse lactate to provide energy to the heart and brain and modulate the immune system. But to do this, lactate must be cleared from the muscles into the bloodstream.

    After intense exercise, continuing to move your body – but less intensely – can help do this. This kind of active recovery has been shown to be more efficient than passive recovery (meaning you don’t move).

    Intense exercise can mean your muscles produce more metabolic byproducts.
    Tom Wang/Shutterstock

    Returning blood to the heart

    Intense exercise also makes our heart pump more blood into the body. The volume pumped to the muscles increases dramatically, while blood flow to other tissues – especially the abdominal organs such as the kidneys – is reduced.

    Moving after intense exercise can help redistribute the blood flow and speed up recovery of the respiratory and cardiovascular systems. This will also clear metabolic byproducts faster.

    After a long run, for example, there will be much more blood in your leg muscles. If you stand still for a long time, you may feel dizzy or faint, thanks to lowered blood pressure and less blood flow to the brain.

    Moving your legs, whether through stretching or walking, will help pump blood back to the heart.

    In fact around 90% of the blood returning from the legs via veins relies on the foot, calf and thigh muscles moving and pumping. The calf muscle plays the largest role (about 65%). Moving your heels up and down after exercising can help activate this motion.

    What if you don’t feel like moving?

    Maybe after exercise you just want to sit down in a heap. Should you?

    If you’re too tired to do light movement such as stretching or walking, you may still benefit from elevating your legs.

    You can lie down – research has shown blood from the veins returns more easily to the heart after exercise when you’re lying down, compared to sitting up, even if you’re still. Elevating your legs has an added benefit, as it reverses the effect of gravity and helps circulation.

    Ken Nosaka 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. Why can’t I keep still after intense exercise? – https://theconversation.com/why-cant-i-keep-still-after-intense-exercise-247555

    MIL OSI Analysis – EveningReport.nz –

  • MIL-OSI Economics: Panasonic HD develops SegLLM, an interactive segmentation technology that allows for image referencing, enabling recognition under complex conditions

    Source: Panasonic

    Headline: Panasonic HD develops SegLLM, an interactive segmentation technology that allows for image referencing, enabling recognition under complex conditions

    Osaka, Japan, April 17, 2025 – Panasonic R&D Company of America (PRDCA) and Panasonic Holdings Co., Ltd. (Panasonic HD), in collaboration with researchers from the University of California, Berkeley (UC Berkeley), have developed SegLLM, an interactive segmentation technology that allows users to specify recognition targets using language and reference images.
    Segmentation is a technology that divides an image into multiple regions at the pixel level. By integrating with image recognition, it enables the detection of specific objects and accurately captures their position and shape. This makes it applicable to various fields, such as object recognition in factories, environmental recognition around vehicles and object manipulation by robots. Recently, in the field of image recognition, there has been an increasing use of large language models (LLMs) to specify recognition targets using text. However, when providing instructions interactively, if new instructions are based on objects recognized in past interactions, the text can become complex, leading to a higher likelihood of misrecognition. The newly developed SegLLM addresses this issue by allowing the input of both text and reference images into prompts, enabling the recognition of hierarchical relationships between objects and interactions among objects, even for untrained objects. It also makes it possible to recognize only specific objects in more complex scenes where there are many similar looking objects.
    This technology has been internationally recognized for its advanced capabilities and has been accepted at the International Conference on Learning Representations (ICLR 2025), a leading conference in AI and machine learning technologies. It will be presented at the conference held in Singapore from April 24 to April 28, 2025.

    Future Outlook:

    The newly developed SegLLM is a technology that significantly enhances the performance of interactive segmentation. Panasonic HD plans to implement this technology into the automatic annotation tool they are developing with FastLabel. By expanding the range of application to include targets that are difficult to detect with traditional text-only instructions, such as untrained objects or items held by specific individuals, this tool will evolve into a more versatile solution. Leveraging the characteristics of SegLLM, it can reduce training costs on-site in factories and production lines where a wide variety of instruments and tools exist. This will accelerate optimization in factories and similar environments through applications in Cyber-Physical Systems (CPS).
    Panasonic HD will continue to accelerate the implementation of AI in society and promote research and development of AI technologies that will contribute to improving our customers’ lives and workplaces.
    * [Press Release] Panasonic R&D Company of America Develops New Multimodal Foundation Model That Can Perform Image Recognition and Segmentation in Response to Any Text Input (Nov 21, 2023)https://news.panasonic.com/global/press/en231121-5

    Related Information:

    “SegLLM: Multi-round Reasoning Segmentation”This research is the result of a collaborative effort between Konstantinos Kallidromitis from PRDCA, Xudong Wang from UC Berkeley, and Yusuke Kato and Kazuki Kozuka from Panasonic HD.https://arxiv.org/abs/2410.18923Panasonic × AI websitehttps://tech-ai.panasonic.com/en/

    About the Panasonic Group
    Founded in 1918, and today a global leader in developing innovative technologies and solutions for wide-ranging applications in the consumer electronics, housing, automotive, industry, communications, and energy sectors worldwide, the Panasonic Group switched to an operating company system on April 1, 2022 with Panasonic Holdings Corporation serving as a holding company and eight companies positioned under its umbrella. The Group reported consolidated net sales of 8,496.4 billion yen for the year ended March 31, 2024. To learn more about the Panasonic Group, please visit: https://holdings.panasonic/global/

    MIL OSI Economics –

  • MIL-Evening Report: Want straighter teeth or a gap between? Don’t believe TikTok – filing them isn’t the answer

    Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Arosha Weerakoon, Senior Lecturer and General Dentist, School of Dentistry, The University of Queensland

    After decades of Hollywood showcasing white-picket-fence celebrity smiles, the world has fallen for White Lotus actor Aimee Lou Wood’s teeth.

    Wood was bullied for her looks in her youth and expressed gratitude for the positive comments she received about her teeth since appearing on White Lotus. She also joked that people shouldn’t take to drastic measures like filing teeth to copy her famous gap.

    But social media influencers are promising that teeth filing is a quick way to achieve a straight smile. Some influencers even use electric nail drills to cut gaps between their front teeth.

    A few of my patients admit to taking a nail file to “buff” or file jagged edges off their teeth. Many do this without understanding what they are cutting away.

    Here’s why you should think twice about filing your teeth at home, and why we as dentists or orthodontists occasionally resort to this.

    When might a dentist file a tooth?

    Dentists and orthodontists occasionally file a tooth’s enamel, known as enameloplasty, to conservatively smooth-down a chipped tooth, or even-out a smile.

    But adjustments to a person’s smile are minute, and always limited to the superficial enamel layer of the tooth.

    Why don’t dentists routinely file teeth?

    Dentists and orthodontists are particular about what and when we cut because teeth don’t grow back like fingernails or hair.

    So what is a tooth? A tooth is like an egg, with an outer diamond-like lustrous crystal enamel coat that envelops the hard yet springy dentine.

    The enamel and dentine envelop a central chamber – containing blood vessels, cells and nerves – called the pulp.

    The outer periphery of the pulp is surrounded by and nourishes special dentine-making cells called odontoblasts.

    The odontoblasts are similar to our bone-making cells but don’t have the capacity to regenerate. These cells eventually give way to age-related changes or trauma.

    Our enamel-making cells die when our teeth cut through our gums as children, which means we can no longer make new, or repair damaged, enamel.

    So damaged enamel or dentine on the outer surface of the tooth cannot self-repair.

    Cutting your teeth without sealing and filling them can leave the tooth exposed, destroying the previously well-insulated pulp and causing sensitivity and pain.

    Infections can occur because the bacteria from the plaque inside your mouth travels into the tooth and inflames the pulp.

    And just like a cut on your skin, the pulp inflames and swells as part of the healing process. But your pulp is encased in a hard enamel-dentine chamber, so it has no room to expand and swell, leading to a throbbing toothache.

    What can you do if you want to change your teeth?

    You can change your smile without compromising the integrity of your teeth. Dentists can even create or close gaps.

    And we will always offer conservative options, including “no treatment”, to keep as many of your teeth whole and healthy as possible.

    Sometimes, your dentists and or orthodontists may offer options to:

    • use braces to move teeth. Moving teeth can create a different smile, and sometimes change the shape and position of your jaws, lips and cheeks

    • whiten teeth to remove superficial stains to make your smile look more visually even

    • adapt white resin fillings or veneers to add and change the shape of teeth, with little or no tooth cutting required.

    If you’re concerned about the look of your teeth, talk to your dentist or orthodontist about options that won’t damage your teeth and make them last the distance.

    Don’t forget that Aimee Lou Wood’s iconic smile makes her stand out from the crowd. Your smile is what makes you special, and is part of who you are.

    Arosha Weerakoon is a member of the Australian Dental Association and Fellow of the Royal Australasian College of Dental Surgeons. She is the Deputy Chair of the Country to Coast Queensland Clinical Advisory Council. Arosha is a Colgate Advocate for Oral Health. In this role, she promotes professionalism to her peers. She is the principal and owner of a general dental practice.

    – ref. Want straighter teeth or a gap between? Don’t believe TikTok – filing them isn’t the answer – https://theconversation.com/want-straighter-teeth-or-a-gap-between-dont-believe-tiktok-filing-them-isnt-the-answer-253931

    MIL OSI Analysis – EveningReport.nz –

  • MIL-Evening Report: How to tackle the ‘gender play gap’: 4 ways to encourage young women back into sport

    Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By James Kay, PhD Candidate at the College of Education, Psychology and Social Work, Flinders University

    matimix/Shutterstock

    Women’s sport has recently enjoyed unprecedented success in Australia.

    We have seen the Matildas sell out 16 successive home games, a world-record attendance for a women’s Test cricket match at the MCG, and women athletes contribute 72% of Australia’s gold medal tally at the Paris Olympics.

    However, against the backdrop of these successes, women and girls continue to participate in community sport at lower rates than boys and men, a phenomenon known as the “gender play gap”.

    What is the ‘gender play gap’?

    The gender play gap is the difference between the number of women and girls participating in sport compared to the number of men and boys.

    The gap exists from a very young age, with Australian government data showing nearly 30% more boys aged 0–14 participate in club or association sport than girls.

    The gap closes to just 2% between the ages of 15–17, but then explodes to 43% for those aged 18–24.

    Although the gap grows and shrinks at various points, it is consistently in favour of more men and boys participating in organised sport than women and girls.

    Trying to find answers

    Together with colleagues at Flinders University, we are currently working with the South Australian government to research how to close this gap.

    The first stage found there isn’t enough research attention to this area. Of the 3,000+ studies included in a global literature search, only five focused on increasing rates of sport participation in young women.

    We then conducted a large-scale qualitative study which uncovered the following reasons why young women drop out of sport, and often do not re-engage.

    1. Sport stops being fun

    Social experiences in sport are central to girls’ enjoyment and long-term participation. While friendships keep them engaged, negative team dynamics, exclusion and club politics can push them away.

    2. A lack of genuine equality

    Although progress in gender equality has been made, young women still struggle to have the same access to facilities and quality coaching as males. Typically, women and girls prefer women coaches who can relate to their experiences, yet women remain underrepresented in these roles.

    3. They have too much on their plates

    Schoolwork, part-time jobs and social lives compete for young women’s time, and many feel overwhelmed by increasing training commitments and school demands. In addition, girls as young as 13 are promoted to senior-age teams, which adds pressure and can break the social bonds with their peers.

    4. They lose competitive opportunities

    Although some young women enjoy a more relaxed, social approach to sport, others really value structured training and competition. Many girls end up dropping out because the competitive opportunities for them are not of the same standard as those available to boys. Some sports have fewer games per season for girls, or a shorter finals series than for boys.

    How can we close the gap?

    Sport participation efforts have typically focused on recruitment of new participants and retention of existing participants.

    With so many young women dropping out of sport during adolescence, a renewed focus on re-engaging these previous participants may help to close the gender play gap.

    Dropout is often considered a failure and a negative endpoint of a sport participation journey. However, there is a growing sentiment in sport research that transitioning out of sport temporarily may be necessary for some adolescents’ development.

    It is okay for anyone to take a break from sport, but the sport needs to make it easier for them to return when they are ready. The key is to make re-engagement easy and appealing.

    Re-engagement programs should be distinctly different from those aimed at new participants, and should revolve around the following key areas:

    1. Targeted promotion and communication

    Often, young women do not return to sport because they’re not aware of available opportunities if they return. Sport organisations should highlight programs that cater to those who want to start playing again, as well as those aimed at new participants.

    2. Strengthen social connection

    Young women are more likely to return to sport if they feel a sense of belonging and connection and have opportunities to create friendships outside of school. Programs that can foster strong social bonds while maintaining a focus on competition and skill development are most likely to be effective.

    3. Champion equity and inclusion

    Gender equity must be a priority for all sport organisations, with all genders having equitable access to high-quality training and competition.

    4. Future-proofing

    To achieve long-term gender equality in sport, organisations must actively future-proof their programs by encouraging women’s and girl’s leadership and providing young women with same-gender role models. By embedding gender equity into policies, coaching pathways and community engagement, sport organisations can create a more sustainable and welcoming environment for young women.

    What’s next?

    Despite the success of women’s sport in recent years, we have a long way to go to achieve genuine gender equality in sport.

    Rather than relying on one-size-fits-all approaches to participation, sport organisations should adopt a targeted approach that may narrow the gender play gap and progress towards a more equitable sport participation landscape.

    James Kay receives funding from the Office for Recreation, Sport and Racing, South Australia.

    Sam Elliott receives funding from the Australian Sports Commission, the Office for Recreation, Sport and Racing, the South Australian National Football League, and the MRFF.

    – ref. How to tackle the ‘gender play gap’: 4 ways to encourage young women back into sport – https://theconversation.com/how-to-tackle-the-gender-play-gap-4-ways-to-encourage-young-women-back-into-sport-251353

    MIL OSI Analysis – EveningReport.nz –

  • MIL-Evening Report: 1 in 6 New Zealanders is disabled. Why does so much health research still exclude them?

    Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Rachelle Martin, Senior Lecturer in Rehabilitation & Disability, University of Otago

    Getty Images

    Disabled people encounter all kinds of barriers to accessing healthcare – and not simply because some face significant mobility challenges.

    Others will see their symptoms not investigated properly because it’s assumed a problem is related to their disability rather than another medical condition. Or they will have decisions made for them rather than with them.

    This often means they experience worse – and avoidable – outcomes compared to others. But despite this, health research – which is meant to reduce these disparities – frequently excludes disabled people.

    For instance, a 2023 global review of 2,710 clinical trials found 35% reported excluding disabled individuals specifically. Researchers sometimes assume (without a good ethical or scientific reason) that disabled people can’t give consent, don’t meet the study criteria, or will struggle to follow instructions and collaborate.

    Even when researchers are more inclusive, their plans can fail to account for the difficulties disabled people face with travel, communication and physical access. All of which makes it harder for them to participate.

    This creates a vicious circle. Health research is vital for shaping the policies, treatments and community interventions that underpin modern healthcare. However, for disabled people, who make up one-sixth of the national and global population, too much research does not reflect their experiences and needs.

    Beyond clinical and scientific research

    The active participation by disabled people in health research is good science, good economics and the right thing to do. When people with lived experience contribute to the design and delivery of health care and research, it means services are used more and fairer outcomes are achieved.

    But this is far from the reality in Aotearoa New Zealand and around the world. Scientific and clinical research is still often viewed as being more important than research addressing the needs of patients and people, as prioritised by them.

    There is increasing interest in public and patient involvement in health services, and to a lesser extent health research. But this is not sufficiently embedded or formalised. Research priorities are still set primarily by clinicians and medical researchers.

    Most funding still goes to research investigating the causes, genetics and treatment of health conditions. And while these are important to study, there is still too little research focused on how people can live well with disability.

    A recent review of research funding for autism, for example, found the most money and number of grants were awarded to biological research. But a survey of about 500 people from New Zealand’s autistic and autism communities found people wanted more research into their mental health, wellbeing and practical skills development.

    If research aims to improve health outcomes for everyone, it must involve all populations – particularly those most at risk of poorer health outcomes.

    This extends beyond people with disability to include all marginalised and often excluded communities. But this kind of change will need action at different levels of research, and to be led by researchers themselves. The rules and funding systems must also support a more inclusive approach.

    Practical steps to make a difference

    Some of the key strategies needed to ensure health research becomes more representative, ethical and effective have been outlined by the Disability Inclusion in Research Collaboration, a global network of researchers:

    • Making sure disabled people are visible in research grant applications: funding bodies must actively require and reward the inclusion of disabled participants in health research studies.

    • Including disability perspectives from the very start: disabled people should be involved in formulating research questions, designing studies and advising on accessibility measures.

    • Ensuring disabled people are research participants whenever possible: researchers must clearly explain and justify any exclusion criteria related to disability, which need to be grounded in legitimate safety or ethical concerns rather than mere assumptions.

    • Making it routine to report on disability status: research studies should use data to identify, track and report on participants’ disability status, so it is easier to monitor inclusion efforts and outcomes.

    By committing to these basic measures, health research can become more representative, ethical and effective. It will also help the research produce insights relevant to a broader range of people, ultimately leading to stronger and fairer healthcare systems.

    This is about more than justice for disabled people. It is about ensuring medical research achieves its true purpose: to improve health for everyone.

    Rachelle A Martin receives funding from the NZ Health Research Council.

    Kaaren Mathias receives funding from the Health Research Council and CURE Kids.

    – ref. 1 in 6 New Zealanders is disabled. Why does so much health research still exclude them? – https://theconversation.com/1-in-6-new-zealanders-is-disabled-why-does-so-much-health-research-still-exclude-them-254280

    MIL OSI Analysis – EveningReport.nz –

  • MIL-Evening Report: ER Report: A Roundup of Significant Articles on EveningReport.nz for April 17, 2025

    ER Report: Here is a summary of significant articles published on EveningReport.nz on April 17, 2025.

    Most bees nest in the ground. Offering rocks and gravel is a simple way to help them thrive
    Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Freya Marie Jackson, PhD Candidate, School of Veterinary and Life Sciences, Murdoch University _Lasioglossum dotatum_ kerrysturat/iNaturalist, CC BY-NC-ND Of the more than 20,000 bee species in the world, 70% nest in the ground. And like many of their counterparts that nest above ground, these bees are facing

    Thailand’s fragile democracy takes another hit with arrest of US academic
    Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Adam Simpson, Senior Lecturer, International Studies, University of South Australia Despite the challenges faced by local democratic activists, Thailand has often been an oasis of relative liberalism compared with neighbouring countries such as Myanmar, Laos and Cambodia. Westerners, in particular, have been largely welcomed and provided with

    In the trade war, China has moved to curb supply of critical minerals. Can Australia seize the moment?
    Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Marina Yue Zhang, Associate Professor, Technology and Innovation, University of Technology Sydney China has placed curbs on exports of rare germanium and gallium which are critical in manufacturing. Shutterstock In the escalating trade war between the United States and China, one notable exception stood out: 31 critical

    ‘The pay is not worth the stress’: research finds 10% of lawyers plan to quit within a year
    Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Vivien Holmes, Emerita Professor, Australian National University Momentum studio/Shutterstock No one goes into the legal profession thinking it is going to be easy. Long working hours are fairly standard, work is often completed to tight external deadlines, and 24/7 availability to clients is widely understood to be

    Contemporary television is rarely as good as The Narrow Road to the Deep North
    Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Stephen Gaunson, Associate Professor in Cinema Studies, RMIT University Prime The Narrow Road to the Deep North stands as some of the most visceral and moving television produced in Australia in recent memory. Marking a new accessibility and confidence to director Justin Kurzel, it reunites him with

    NZ’s over-reliance on roads for freight means natural disasters hit even harder. But there is a fix
    Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Cécile L’Hermitte, Senior Lecturer in Logistics and Supply Chain Management, University of Waikato In the aftermath of Cyclone Gabrielle, the driving time between Napier and Wairoa stretched from 90 minutes to over six hours, causing major supply chain delays. Retail prices rose and shoppers faced empty shelves.

    ‘They are like my children’: research reveals 4 types of indoor plant owners. Which one are you?
    Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Brianna Le Busque, Lecturer in Environmental Science, University of South Australia maramorosz/Shutterstock Walk into any home or workplace today, and you’re likely to find an array of indoor plants. The global market for indoor plants is growing fast – projected to reach more than US$28 billion (A$44

    Cracks in social cohesion – the major parties must commit to reinvigorating multiculturalism
    Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Andrew Jakubowicz, Emeritus Professor of Sociology, University of Technology Sydney In the run up to the May 3 election, questions are being raised about the value of multiculturalism as a public policy in Australia. They’ve been prompted by community tensions arising from the Israeli/Palestinian conflict and the

    State of the states: six experts on how the campaign is playing out around Australia
    Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By David Clune, Honorary Associate, Government and International Relations, University of Sydney The federal election campaign has passed the halfway mark, with politicians zig-zagging across the country to spruik their policies and achievements. Where politicians choose to visit (and not visit) give us some insight into their electoral

    People are ‘microdosing’ weight-loss drugs. A GP explains what to watch out for
    Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Natasha Yates, General Practitioner, PhD Candidate, Bond University MillaF/Shutterstock Injectable medications originally developed for the treatment of diabetes are also effective for weight loss, and have surged in popularity for this purpose around the world. In Australia, Ozempic is approved for the treatment of type 2 diabetes,

    With the end of Flybuys NZ, what happens to the personal data of nearly 3 million Kiwis?
    Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Lisa M. Katerina Asher, Doctoral Candidate, Business School, University of Sydney JuSun/Getty Images After almost three decades in New Zealand, loyalty programme Flybuys announced it would be closing in 2024. The company behind the scheme, Loyalty New Zealand, has since entered liquidation, leaving the future of one

    New Aussie film The Correspondent is an extraordinary retelling of Peter Greste’s story
    Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Andrea Jean Baker, Senior Lecturer in Journalism, Monash University Maslow Entertainment The Correspondent is a film every journalist should see. There are no spoiler alerts. It is based on the globally-publicised jailing in Cairo in 2013 of Australian journalist Peter Greste (played by Richard Roxburgh) and his

    Fiji defence minister draws flak for six-week trip to meet peacekeepers
    RNZ Pacific Fiji’s Minister for Defence and Veteran Affairs is facing a backlash after announcing that he was undertaking a multi-country, six-week “official travel overseas” to visit Fijian peacekeepers in the Middle East. Pio Tikoduadua’s supporters say he should “disregard critics” for his commitment to Fijian peacekeepers, which “highlights a profound dedication to duty and

    Election Diary: there were a couple of ‘moments’ in second Albanese-Dutton encounter
    Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Michelle Grattan, Professorial Fellow, University of Canberra Two “moments” stuck out in Wednesday’s leaders’ debate, the second head-to-head of the campaign. Peter Dutton cut his losses over his faux pas this week when he wrongly named Indonesian president Prabowo Subianto as having said there had been a

    Second leaders’ debate is a tame affair befitting a ‘deeply uninspiring’ campaign
    Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Andy Marks, Vice-President, Public Affairs and Partnerships, Western Sydney University Prime Minister Anthony Albanese and Opposition Leader Peter Dutton have had their second showdown of the 2025 federal election campaign. The debate, hosted by the ABC, was moderated by David Speers in the national broadcaster’s studios in

    Poll shows Australians hate Trump policies and have lost trust in US, but still strongly believe in alliance
    Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Michelle Grattan, Professorial Fellow, University of Canberra Australians strongly disagree with key policies of US President Donald Trump, and have overwhelmingly lost trust in the United States to act responsibly in the world, according to the Lowy Institute’s 2025 poll. Despite this, 80% of people say the

    NZ’s Palestine Forum calls on Luxon to take ‘firm stand’ over Israeli atrocities with temporary ban on visitors
    Asia Pacific Report A Palestinian advocacy group has called on NZ Prime Minister Christopher Luxon and Foreign Minister Winston Peters to take a firm stand for international law and human rights by following the Maldives with a ban on visiting Israelis. Maher Nazzal, chair of the Palestine Forum of New Zealand, said in an open

    We compared the Labor and Coalition’s income tax proposals to see who benefits most
    Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By John Hawkins, Senior Lecturer, Canberra School of Politics, Economics and Society, University of Canberra Shutterstock We now have the competing bids for our votes by the alternative governments on income tax policy. From Labor, future cuts to the lowest marginal tax rate and new standard deductions for

    Half of Australian landlords sell their investments after 2 years, adding to renters’ insecurity
    Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Ranjodh B. Singh, Senior Economics and Finance Lecturer, Curtin University Marc Bruxelle/Shutterstock Australia’s renters have to battle rising rents and a lack of available properties. They also face ongoing instability. Our new research suggests half of all landlords sell their investment properties after only two years, adding

    Labor and the Greens likely to gain Senate seats at the election
    Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Adrian Beaumont, Election Analyst (Psephologist) at The Conversation; and Honorary Associate, School of Mathematics and Statistics, The University of Melbourne As well as the election for the full House of Representatives, there will be an election on May 3 for 40 of the 76 senators. The 72

    MIL OSI Analysis – EveningReport.nz –

  • MIL-OSI China: Foreign Buddhist practitioners visit key Tibetan sites

    Source: China State Council Information Office 2

    Foreign monks and officials visit an exhibition on the reincarnation system of Living Buddhas in Beijing on Monday, gaining insights into the centuries-old spiritual succession system in Tibetan Buddhism. [Photo/China Daily]
    Foreign Buddhist practitioners and religious affairs officials said visits to key Tibetan sites and research institutions in China this week have deepened their understanding of the reincarnation system of Living Buddhas and the development of Tibetan Buddhism in the country.
    More than 20 monks and officials from 12 countries visited the Lama Temple and the China Tibetology Research Center in Beijing, as well as the Sera Monastery, Potala Palace, Jokhang Temple and Tibet University in Lhasa, capital of the Xizang autonomous region, from Monday to Wednesday.
    At the Lama Temple, monks expressed strong interest in the Discourse of Lama, an inscription carved in Manchu, Han, Mongolian and Tibetan. Written by Emperor Qianlong of the Qing Dynasty (1644-1911), the piece outlines the policy of selecting reincarnated Living Buddhas through a lot-drawing process using a golden urn.
    Emperor Qianlong granted two golden urns in 1792, placing one at the Lama Temple in Beijing and the other at the Jokhang Temple in Lhasa. The current procedure for identifying reincarnated Living Buddhas in China has been standardized and legalized based on historical practice, according to Hu Xuefeng, abbot of the Lama Temple.
    “According to the procedure, the reincarnation of a Living Buddha must be carried out in China and approved by the central government,” Hu said during a briefing on the temple’s history and development.
    Lharkyal Lama, vice-chairman of Nepal’s Lumbini Development Trust, said Living Buddhas play a vital role in promoting Tibetan Buddhism and that their reincarnation has a long and rich history.
    After viewing an exhibition on the reincarnation of Living Buddhas — including the Dalai Lama and Panchen Lama — at the Museum of Tibetan Culture at the China Tibetology Research Center, Penh Vibol, a member of the Secretariat of the Supreme Sangha Council of Cambodia, said the visit helped him better understand the background of the reincarnation tradition in China.
    “I think it’s a very good lesson and experience for us to come here and learn about the reincarnation story,” Vibol said.
    Monks said they were also pleased to see that Buddhist heritage sites and relics are well protected and that Buddhism remains vibrant in China.
    “The Lama Temple is a symbol of cultural connection between many different places,” said Lharkyal Lama. “You can see scriptures in different languages, including Tibetan and Chinese, and the architecture and relics have been beautifully preserved.”
    Phra Sophonvachirabhorn, assistant abbot of Wat Arun Ratchawararam in Thailand, said he was surprised to see so many young people worshiping at the Lama Temple.
    Hu, the abbot, said the temple receives an average of 20,000 visitors and worshipers daily — a sign that religious freedom is fully protected in the country.
    Nguyen Van Tan, a member of the General Buddhist Association of Vietnam, said he was impressed by the grandeur of the Sera Monastery in Lhasa. “I’m glad to have the opportunity to visit it for the first time. There are so many worshipers here, which shows that Buddhism has been well promoted,” he said.
    Mendbayar Demberel, an abbot from Mongolia, said he had in-depth exchanges with local Buddhist practitioners during visits to the Sera Monastery, Potala Palace and Jokhang Temple, which he described as both pleasant and fruitful.
    Jampa Choipel, a monk from the Sera Monastery, said the number of visitors from both China and abroad has grown in recent years.
    “Such exchanges have boosted understanding of Buddhism among practitioners from different parts of the world,” he said. “Together, we can contribute more to the harmonious development of local communities.”

    MIL OSI China News –

  • MIL-Evening Report: Contemporary television is rarely as good as The Narrow Road to the Deep North

    Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Stephen Gaunson, Associate Professor in Cinema Studies, RMIT University

    Prime

    The Narrow Road to the Deep North stands as some of the most visceral and moving television produced in Australia in recent memory.

    Marking a new accessibility and confidence to director Justin Kurzel, it reunites him with screenwriter Shaun Grant. Having produced some of the most compelling and confronting cinema on Australia’s darker history, this latest collaboration is no exception.

    Their previous features Snowtown (2011), True History of the Kelly Gang (2020) and Nitram (2021) focused on disturbed psychopaths wanting to unleash their fury onto a society they blame for their own wrongs and injustices.

    The Narrow Road to the Deep North, the World War II five episode miniseries, continues their exploration of Australia’s violent past while navigating a new direction in how they depict confused and damaged men.

    Trauma of survival

    Dorrigo Evans (Jacob Elordi/Ciarán Hinds) is a doctor sent to World War II. Captured during the Battle of Java he is taken as a prisoner of war (POW), where he is forced to lead his Australian soldiers on the building of the Burma-Thailand Railway.

    Rather than an executor of violence, he is a pacifist and victim. Ultimately he has to make peace with his own trauma and guilt of survival when many around him perished – some of whom he knowingly sent to their inevitable death to ensure his own survival.

    Faithfully adapted from Richard Flanagan’s novel, this production effectively creates interchanging timelines (seamlessly edited by Alexandre de Francesch) including prewar, war and postwar, and then flashes forward to Dorrigo in his mid-70s.

    Elordi’s younger depiction of Dorrigo is filled with nuance and subtleties, often exuded through his stillness. This is harmoniously taken up by Hinds, who has to carry the weight of Dorrigo’s trauma and guilt decades later, with a worn and damaged quietness. Hinds is remarkable when faced to confront his celebrity as a war hero, desperate to give the truth over the expected yarns of mateship and heroism.

    How do we tell the truth?

    The Narrow Road to the Deep North has been scheduled to be released close to ANZAC Day, which always provokes broader conversations around the mythmaking and truth-telling of our war service and human sacrifice.

    This production arrives as a thought-provoking essay on how military history continues to be told. Does the public really want accurate accounts, or more stories on mateship and heroism? Such questions filter dramatically across each episode and up to the final shot leaving us with much to consider.

    As a war drama, The Narrow Road to the Deep North is almost entirely static. The combat the battalion engages in is eclipsed by the soldiers held as starving and malnourished prisoners, brutally forced in several graphic scenes to continue as slaves on the building of the railway at all costs.

    The brutal and endless beating of Darky Gardiner (Thomas Weatherall), who crawls to the latrine full of excrement to drown himself, rather than endure more beating, is horrific but necessary to see the endless torture these skeletal and sick POWs are subjected to.

    90,000 Asian civilians and 2,800 Australian prisoners of war died constructing the Burma Railway.
    Prime

    One misleading depiction Grant and Kurzel disappointingly do not amend from Flanagan’s novel is the view that the Burma Railway was constructed almost entirely by the bloody hands of Australian soldiers. In reality more than 90,000 Asian civilians died, and 16,000 POWs from several nations, including 2,800 Australians.

    Moving across time

    Cinematogropher Sam Chiplin brings a sense of gothic dread. The framing of every shot is masterful.

    Odessa Young as Amy, Dorrigo’s true love, is a standout. She gives us someone struggling in a loveless marriage and desiring her husband’s nephew while she watches him sent to war. Her sense of entrapment in the quiet seaside Tasmanian coastal town is quite brilliantly realised.

    Elordi’s Dorrigo is filled with nuance and subtleties. Odessa Young as Amy, Dorrigo’s true love, is a standout.
    Prime

    Other performances worthy of mention are the Japanese soldiers tasked with the project of building the leg of the Burma-Thailand Railway. Major Nakamura (Shô Kasamatsu) is compelling as the scared and conflicted guard who ultimately spends his post-war years hiding among the ruins of Shinjuku to avoid capture as a war criminal.

    Moving across the scenes and contrasting time frames is the haunting, unsettling and dissonant score by Jed Kurzel. Like the memories and trauma of the past, the music follows the characters across time and space.

    Immaculate

    Structurally immaculate, The Narrow Road to the Deep North is not defined by its brutal torture of the POWs or comradeship of the starving soldiers (though they are powerful to watch). Instead, it points us towards the quieter visions of characters having to sit alone with their distorted memories.

    The Narrow Road to the Deep North is a deeply compelling contribution to the Australian war genre.
    Prime

    The tonal inspiration may be drawn from earlier literary anti-war novels such as All Quiet on the Western Front (1930) and The Naked and the Dead (1948), but The Narrow Road to the Deep North is a work of its own depth and beauty. It will deserve its place as one of the most compelling contributions to the Australian war genre.

    The final moments of cutting between the faces of Elordi and Hinds left me silent and reaching for a reread of Flanagan’s novel.

    Contemporary television is rarely this good.

    The Narrow Road to the Deep North is on Prime from April 18.

    Stephen Gaunson 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. Contemporary television is rarely as good as The Narrow Road to the Deep North – https://theconversation.com/contemporary-television-is-rarely-as-good-as-the-narrow-road-to-the-deep-north-253611

    MIL OSI Analysis – EveningReport.nz –

  • MIL-Evening Report: ‘The pay is not worth the stress’: research finds 10% of lawyers plan to quit within a year

    Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Vivien Holmes, Emerita Professor, Australian National University

    Momentum studio/Shutterstock

    No one goes into the legal profession thinking it is going to be easy. Long working hours are fairly standard, work is often completed to tight external deadlines, and 24/7 availability to clients is widely understood to be a norm, particularly in commercial and international practice.

    But too often, the demands of law can create an unhealthy workplace environment. In 2021, the stress of high workloads, low job control, and risks of secondary trauma led SafeWork NSW to categorise legal work as “high risk” for fatigue hazards – putting it alongside night shift work, emergency services, and fly-in, fly-out roles.

    To investigate this problem, we surveyed about 1,900 lawyers across Victoria, New South Wales and Western Australia in March and April last year.

    We asked them about their workplace culture and its impact on wellbeing, about their levels of psychological distress, and whether they had experienced disrespectful behaviours at work.

    We also asked whether they intended to leave either their employer or the legal profession in the near future.

    Their answers allowed us to identify the type of workplace culture that is harmful to lawyers’ wellbeing. Here’s why fixing this problem matters to us all.

    Unhealthy environments

    Among the professionals we surveyed, about half found themselves in a workplace culture with negative effects on wellbeing.

    A third of this group said their workplaces were characterised by poor working relationships, self-interest and pressure to cut corners or bend rules.

    Alarming numbers of lawyers currently want to leave their current employer or quit the profession entirely.
    Pormezz/Shutterstock

    These poorer workplace cultures involved higher levels of psychological distress and more disrespectful behaviours from superiors and coworkers.

    They were also characterised by a lack of effective wellbeing supports such as mental health leave arrangements or workload allocation practices.

    Long working hours were common. More than half of participants (53%) said they worked more than 40 hours per week and 11% said they put in more than 60 hours.

    About a third of the lawyers we surveyed wanted to quit their firm, while 10% planned to leave the profession, within a year.

    Society can’t afford to ignore this problem. Lawyer wellbeing can directly affect the quality of legal services and may even lead to disciplinary action against individual lawyers. All of this can undermine public trust and confidence in the justice system.

    Workload ‘cannot be sustained’

    We invited participants to explain why they intended to leave the profession. Their answers are telling.

    One mid-career lawyer at a large firm said:

    I am in my 11th year of practice working as a Senior Associate at a top-tier firm. To put it bluntly, the work rate at which I am currently operating, which is required to meet the billable targets and budgets set for us, cannot be sustained for my whole working life – it’s too much.

    A small-firm junior lawyer talked of the workload issues described by many:

    The pay is not worth the stress. I can’t sleep because I’m constantly worried about deadlines or making mistakes, and I got paid more when I was a bartender. I love the work, but it’s a very tough slog and damaging my own wellbeing – for what?

    Our data showed junior lawyers take a lot of the pressure, reflected in higher-than-average levels of psychological distress. Equally concerning was the extent to which senior lawyers with practice management responsibilities also reported above average distress.

    Our research also showed the challenges extended beyond private practice and into government, legal aid and corporate “in-house” settings.

    As one mid-career legal aid lawyer put it:

    Lack of debriefing and supports, lack of formal mentoring and supervision, mental health toll, high workload and poor workplace culture, lack of training and supports to deal with clients in crisis, [mean it’s] not [a] family-friendly profession.

    The positives

    There was also good news. Three themes stood out in the responses from the 48% who told us they worked in positive workplace cultures. This suggests where support should be targeted.

    For nearly two thirds of our sample, having good colleagues was the most important wellbeing support. As one mid-career lawyer put it:

    Informal support such as debriefing with colleagues has been most beneficial for me.

    Good flexible working and (mental health) leave arrangements came across as the most important practical support employers could provide.

    Good workload allocation practices – and a willingness from managers to “reach out to discuss work-life balance” – make a real difference to peoples’ experience.

    Support from colleagues was the most important wellbeing support.
    UM-UMM/Shutterstock

    It matters to the rest of us

    The legal profession and its regulators have been engaging with the wellbeing problem for a while now. Our findings suggest there is still more to be done.

    For the profession as a whole we felt that there was still a need to develop greater understanding of the specific wellbeing needs of both junior lawyers and those managing them, as these are the two groups experiencing the most distress.

    Legal regulatory bodies should work to better understand how economic drivers of legal practice, such as high workloads and billing expectations, can have negative consequences for wellbeing, and whether any regulatory levers could lessen these impacts.

    The authors would like to acknowledge the significant contribution of Stephen Tang, clinical psychologist, in undertaking data analysis and coauthoring the original report.

    This research was supported by the Victorian Legal Services Board + Commissioner (VLSB+C), the Law Society of New South Wales, and the Legal Practice Board of Western Australia. Matched funding for the data analysis was provided by the VLSB+C and industry research seed funding from the Faculty of Business and Economics at the University of Melbourne.

    – ref. ‘The pay is not worth the stress’: research finds 10% of lawyers plan to quit within a year – https://theconversation.com/the-pay-is-not-worth-the-stress-research-finds-10-of-lawyers-plan-to-quit-within-a-year-254699

    MIL OSI Analysis – EveningReport.nz –

  • MIL-Evening Report: In the trade war, China has moved to curb supply of critical minerals. Can Australia seize the moment?

    Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Marina Yue Zhang, Associate Professor, Technology and Innovation, University of Technology Sydney

    China has placed curbs on exports of rare germanium and gallium which are critical in manufacturing. Shutterstock

    In the escalating trade war between the United States and China, one notable exception stood out: 31 critical minerals, including rare earth elements, were strategically exempted from tariffs.

    This was not a gesture of goodwill. It was a tacit acknowledgment of the United States’ deep dependence on China for materials essential to its technological competitiveness, clean energy transition and national defence.

    Beijing’s response was swift and calculated. China’s Ministry of Commerce announced expanded export controls and a shift in pricing principles. The move reflects China’s long-standing effort to shift rare earth pricing from market supply and demand to pricing based on their strategic value.

    The impact was immediate. Rare earth exports from China effectively ground to a halt, as exporters awaited approvals under a new, opaque licensing regime.

    The announcement prompted President Trump to issue a new executive order directing a review of national security risks stemming from the US reliance on imported, processed critical minerals.

    As global supply chains reel from these disruptions, Australia finds itself in a unique strategic position. As a trusted US ally, it possesses the resources, partnerships and political capital to step into the breach. But can Australia seize this opportunity – or will it come with strings attached?

    China’s new playbook

    China’s latest restrictions target seven rare earths – such as dysprosium and terbium – crucial for electric vehicles, wind turbines, fighter jets and missile systems.

    While stopping short of a full export ban, the policy functions as a chokepoint. It leverages China’s near-total global control of rare earth refining (around 90%) and its monopoly on heavy rare earth processing (98%).

    Domestically, China’s rare earth sector is dominated by two state-owned giants which together control nearly 100% of national mining quotas.

    These measures have exposed the vulnerability of Western supply chains. The US has only one operational rare earth mine – Mountain Pass in California – and minimal domestic refining capacity. A new processing facility in Texas owned by Australia’s Lynas is under development, but it will take years to establish a self-sufficient supply chain.

    Rare earths have become a source of contention in the tariff war.
    Shutterstock

    Europe faces similar challenges. While rare earths are vital to the EU’s green transition, domestic production remains limited. Efforts to diversify through partners like Australia and Canada show promise but are hindered by high production costs and continued reliance on Chinese technology.

    China is also working to redefine how rare earths are priced. One proposal would tie the value of key elements like dysprosium to the price of gold, elevating them from industrial inputs to geopolitical assets. Another would settle rare earth transactions in yuan rather than US dollars, advancing Beijing’s broader ambition to internationalise its currency.

    For China, this strategy goes beyond economics. It is a deliberate national resource policy comparable to OPEC’s management of oil, designed to link pricing to the strategic significance of critical minerals.

    Australia’s window?

    Investors
    are closely watching Australian producers. Strategic deposits such as Mt Weld in Western Australia have drawn renewed interest from Japan, Europe and the US.

    Industry observers argue Australia is better positioned than the US to develop secure supply chains, due to its rich geological endowment and transparent regulatory environment.

    To seize this opportunity, the government has begun to act.

    Under its Future Made in Australia initiative, the federal government is considering measures such as strategic stockpiling, production tax credits and expanded support for domestic processing. Iluka Resources has secured A$1.65 billion to build a rare earth refinery, due to be operational by 2026.

    Emerging projects like Browns Range and Lynas’s Malaysian refinery already serve as alternative nodes in the global rare earth supply chain network.

    However, structural barriers remain. The Western allies, including Australia, still lack key processing technologies and have potentially high environmental compliance costs. Lynas’s Texas plant was intended to expand allied capacity but has faced delays due to environmental approvals.

    Walking a diplomatic tightrope

    Geopolitical tensions add another layer of complexity. Australia’s dual role – as a major upstream supplier to China and a strategic ally of the US – places it on a diplomatic tightrope.

    Aligning too closely with the US could invite Chinese retaliation. Appearing overly aligned with China may provoke scrutiny from Washington.

    Ownership concerns are also rising. The government has blocked or forced divestment of Chinese stakes in rare earth and lithium companies including Northern Minerals.

    Market volatility compounds these challenges. Prices are currently buoyed by geopolitical risk, but have been volatile. Moreover, China’s ability to undercut global prices could erode the competitiveness of Australian exports.

    A strategic opportunity – but with strings attached

    Australia stands at the centre of a rare strategic inflection point. It is both a beneficiary of China’s retreat and a potential casualty of intensifying great power competition.

    In a world where resources confer influence, the question for Australia is not simply whether it has the mineral deposits but whether it has the strategy to match.

    If the government can capitalise on this moment – diversifying partnerships, investing in capabilities, and navigating allies and rivals with strategic care – it could emerge as a leader in a more diverse critical minerals landscape.

    In the era of mineral geopolitics, possessing the resources is no longer enough. The real test is whether Australia has the foresight and the will to lead.

    Marina Yue Zhang 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. In the trade war, China has moved to curb supply of critical minerals. Can Australia seize the moment? – https://theconversation.com/in-the-trade-war-china-has-moved-to-curb-supply-of-critical-minerals-can-australia-seize-the-moment-254574

    MIL OSI Analysis – EveningReport.nz –

  • MIL-Evening Report: Thailand’s fragile democracy takes another hit with arrest of US academic

    Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Adam Simpson, Senior Lecturer, International Studies, University of South Australia

    Despite the challenges faced by local democratic activists, Thailand has often been an oasis of relative liberalism compared with neighbouring countries such as Myanmar, Laos and Cambodia.

    Westerners, in particular, have been largely welcomed and provided with a measure of protection from harassment by the authorities. Thailand’s economy is extremely dependent on foreign tourism. Many Westerners also work in a variety of industries, including as academics at public and private universities.

    That arrangement now seems under pressure. Earlier this month, Paul Chambers, an American political science lecturer at Naresuan University, was arrested on charges of violating the Computer Crimes Act and the lèse-majesté law under Section 112 of Thailand’s Criminal Code for allegedly insulting the monarchy.

    Chambers’ visa has been revoked and he now faces a potential punishment of 15 years in jail.

    The lèse-majesté law has become a common tool for silencing Thai activists. At least 272 people have been charged under the law since pro-democracy protests broke out in 2020, according to rights groups.

    Its use against foreigners has, until now, been limited. No foreign academic has ever been charged with it. Because of the law, however, most academics in Thailand usually tread carefully in their critiques of the monarchy.

    The decision to charge a foreign academic, therefore, suggests a hardening of views on dissent by conservative forces in the country. It represents a further deterioration in Thailand’s democratic credentials and provides little optimism for reform under the present government.

    Thailand’s democratic deficit

    Several other recent actions have also sparked concerns about democratic backsliding.

    Following a visit by Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra to China in February, the government violated domestic and international law by forcibly returning 40 Uyghurs to China.

    The Uyghurs had fled China a decade earlier to escape repression in the western Xinjiang region and had been held in detention in Thailand ever since. They now potentially face worse treatment by the Chinese authorities.

    Then, in early April, Thailand welcomed the head of the Myanmar junta to a regional summit in Bangkok after a devastating earthquake struck his war-ravaged country.

    Min Aung Hlaing has been shunned internationally since the junta launched a coup against the democratically elected government in Myanmar in 2021, sparking a devastating civil war. He has only visited Russia and China since then.

    In addition, the military continues to dominate politics in Thailand. After a progressive party, Move Forward, won the 2023 parliamentary elections by committing to amend the lèse-majesté law, the military, the unelected Senate and other conservative forces in the country ignored the will of the people and denied its charismatic leader the prime ministership.

    The party was then forcibly dissolved by the Constitutional Court and its leader banned from politics for ten years.

    In February, Thailand’s National Anti-Corruption Commission criminally indicted 44 politicians from Move Forward for sponsoring a bill in parliament to reform the lèse-majesté law. They face lifetime bans from politics if they are found guilty of breaching “ethical standards”.

    Even the powerful former prime minister, Thaksin Shinawatra, who is also the uncle of the current prime minister, is not immune from the lèse-majesté law.

    He was indicted last year for allegedly insulting the monarchy almost two decades ago. His case is due to be heard in July.

    This continued undermining of democratic norms is chipping away at Thailand’s international reputation. The country is now classified as a “flawed democracy” in the Economist Intelligence Unit’s Democracy Index, with its ranking falling two years in a row.



    Read more:
    Thailand’s democracy has taken another hit, but the country’s progressive forces won’t be stopped

    Academic freedom at risk

    The lèse-majesté law has always represented something of a challenge to academic freedom in Thailand, as well as freedom of speech more generally. Campaigners against the law have paid a heavy price.

    The US State Department has provided a statement of support for Chambers, urging the Thai government to “ensure that laws are not used to stifle permitted expression”. However, given the Trump administration’s attacks on US universities at the moment, this demand rings somewhat hollow.

    Academic freedom is a hallmark of democracies compared with authoritarian regimes. With the US no longer so concerned with protecting academic freedom at home, there is little stopping flawed democracies around the world from stepping up pressure on academics to toe the line.

    The undermining of democracy in the US is already having palpable impacts on democratic regression around the world.

    With little international pressure to adhere to democratic norms, the current Thai government has taken a significant and deleterious step in arresting a foreign academic.

    In the future, universities in Thailand, as in the US, will find it harder to attract international talent. Universities – and the broader society – in both countries will be worse off for it.

    Adam Simpson 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. Thailand’s fragile democracy takes another hit with arrest of US academic – https://theconversation.com/thailands-fragile-democracy-takes-another-hit-with-arrest-of-us-academic-254706

    MIL OSI Analysis – EveningReport.nz –

  • MIL-Evening Report: Most bees nest in the ground. Offering rocks and gravel is a simple way to help them thrive

    Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Freya Marie Jackson, PhD Candidate, School of Veterinary and Life Sciences, Murdoch University

    _Lasioglossum dotatum_ kerrysturat/iNaturalist, CC BY-NC-ND

    Of the more than 20,000 bee species in the world, 70% nest in the ground. And like many of their counterparts that nest above ground, these bees are facing rapid population declines.

    But while there has been research into providing habitat for above-ground cavity-nesting bees, the nesting ecology of ground-nesting bees remains largely understudied.

    This gap in knowledge is concerning. For one, these bees play a crucial role in ecosystems. For another, ground-nesting bee habitats are threatened by land degradation, urbanisation, pesticides and agricultural expansion.

    Our recent study addresses this research gap. Published this week in Austral Entomology, it examines the soil type preferences of ground-nesting bees and provides a simple, practical approach to enhancing their habitats.

    A high diversity of native bees

    Australia hosts a high diversity of native bees found nowhere else in the world – more than 1,600 scientifically named species.

    Lasioglossum (Homalictus) dotatum is a small, ground-nesting bee species native to Australia. It measures approximately 3–4 mm.

    Unlike the introduced European honey bee (Apis mellifera), which lives in large, highly organised colonies with complex social structures, L. dotatum exhibits an “apartment living” social structure, with independent nests situated close to one another. This aggregation behaviour indicates certain environmental or habitat features that are necessary for the species to thrive.

    This species is widely distributed across mainland Australia. It nests in a range of sandy soil types. Because of this, it offers a valuable opportunity to examine how different environmental conditions shape its nesting preferences.

    Lasioglossum (Homalictus) dotatum nests in a range of sandy soil types.
    Laz/iNaturalist, CC BY-NC-ND

    A prolific pollinator

    A key feature of the nests of this species is the presence of small conical mounds of excavated soil, known as tumuli, which surround the entrance. These mounds can resemble small ant hills. As a result, the nests are sometimes mistaken for ant nests, leading to accidental pesticide application and destruction of the bees’ habitats.

    This bee is also known to visit a range of plants of ecological importance, which makes understanding its role in ecosystems essential. It has been recorded visiting the flowers of jarrah, marri and yarri trees – all of which are vital for maintaining biodiversity and supporting wildlife in southwestern Australia.

    Lasioglossum dotatum has also been observed in avocado orchards, a crop of significant economic value in Western Australia.

    While it remains uncertain whether L. dotatum is a major crop pollinator, its presence in these orchards suggests it could play a supplementary role in pollination. This potentially makes it an intriguing subject for research exploring native alternatives to honey bees (Apis mellifera) for crop pollination.

    Lasioglossum dotatum have been observed visiting the flowers of marri.
    Hans Wismeijer/Shutterstock

    Understanding bees’ nesting preferences

    Our research focused on understanding the nesting preferences of L. dotatum. The study sought to explore how environmental features, such as soil type and surface cover, influenced where these bees chose to nest.

    Specifically, the study tested whether L. dotatum preferred bare sand or rock gravel as a nesting substrate.

    The study also examined whether the cleanliness of the sand – whether steam-treated or left untreated — impacted the bees’ nesting decisions.

    The study used artificial nesting pots filled with sand from the Swan Coastal Plain, a region known for its sandy soils, to simulate nesting conditions around active bee aggregations. During the summer nesting season of February 2022, researchers monitored how the bees interacted with these artificial nesting sites, using the number of nest entrances (or tumuli) as a measure of nesting activity.

    Getting into the gravel

    Our study found L. dotatum strongly preferred nesting in pots covered with rock gravel over those with bare sand. This preference likely arises from the benefits provided by rock gravel, such as improved moisture retention, temperature regulation, and protection from predators.

    The experimental pots with rock gravel had significantly more nest entrances. This indicated that rock cover helps create a more stable and favourable microhabitat for nesting.

    The bees also showed a preference for steam-treated sand, suggesting that factors such as microbial contaminants or organic residues in untreated soil may deter nesting.

    Interestingly, when the rock gravel was removed, many nests were found concealed beneath the gravel. This highlights the importance of rock cover in enhancing nest stability and reducing the risk of disturbance.

    Lasioglossum dotatum preferred nesting in pots covered with rock gravel over those with bare sand.
    Freya Marie Jackson, CC BY-NC-ND

    A simple, practical approach to conservation

    These findings have important implications for native bee conservation, particularly in urban and agricultural areas.

    The preference for rock gravel suggests that incorporating this material into urban landscapes could improve nesting conditions for ground-nesting bees such as L. dotatum.

    By creating spaces for these ground nesting bees, we can better support these vital pollinators.

    As native bees continue to face habitat loss and degradation, these findings provide a simple, practical approach to enhancing their habitats, ultimately contributing to more sustainable pollinator populations in urban and rural settings alike.

    Freya Marie Jackson received funding from the Australian Entomological Society (AES) through their “Small Grant Award”, which supported some of this research on native bees. Additionally, she has received a Research and Innovation Seed Grant Award from Murdoch University.

    Wei Xu received funding from the Australian Entomological Society (AES) through their “Small Grant Award”, which supported some of this research on native bees. Additionally, he has received a Research and Innovation Seed Grant Award from Murdoch University.

    Giles Hardy and Kit Prendergast 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. Most bees nest in the ground. Offering rocks and gravel is a simple way to help them thrive – https://theconversation.com/most-bees-nest-in-the-ground-offering-rocks-and-gravel-is-a-simple-way-to-help-them-thrive-254707

    MIL OSI Analysis – EveningReport.nz –

  • MIL-OSI Security: U.S. Attorney Sarcone Announces Supervisory Appointments

    Source: Office of United States Attorneys

    ALBANY, NEW YORK – United States Attorney John A. Sarcone III today announced two new senior supervisory appointments within the U.S. Attorney’s Office. Lisa M. Fletcher has been appointed Chief of the Criminal Division and Cyrus P.W. Rieck has been appointed Deputy Chief of the Criminal Division. Ms. Fletcher and Mr. Rieck join other senior managers that U.S. Attorney Sarcone has elected to retain in their positions, including First Assistant United States Attorney Daniel Hanlon; and Chief of the Civil Division Karen Folster Lesperance.

    “I am pleased to make these appointments which I believe add great depth of experience and perspective to our decision-making to better serve the Northern District of New York and the mission of the Department of Justice,” said United States Attorney John A. Sarcone III.

    Ms. Fletcher joined the U.S. Attorney’s Office in 1999 and prior to her appointment as Criminal Chief served as Deputy Criminal Chief and the Project Safe Childhood Coordinator.  Prior to joining the U.S. Attorney’s Office, Ms. Fletcher served as an Assistant District Attorney in New York and Onondaga Counties. Ms. Fletcher is a 1986 graduate of Niagara University and a 1989 graduate of St. John’s University School of Law.

    Mr. Rieck joined the U.S. Attorney’s Office in 2014 and prior to his appointment as Deputy Criminal Chief, served a Supervisory Assistant U.S. Attorney.  Prior to joining the U.S. Attorney’s Office, Mr. Rieck was an associate with Orrick, Herrington, and Sutcliffe, LLP; and a law clerk for Judge Paul A. Crotty of the U.S. District Court for the Southern District of New York and Judge John T. Copenhaver, Jr. of the U.S. District Court for the Southern District of West Virginia. Mr. Rieck is a 2005 graduate of Tulane University and a 2008 graduate of the University of Miami Law School.

    Mr. Hanlon joined the U.S. Attorney’s Office in 2008 and prior to his appointment as First Assistant United States Attorney served as Criminal Chief, Deputy Criminal Chief and Narcotics Chief.  Prior to joining the U.S. Attorney’s Office, Mr. Hanlon served as an Assistant District Attorney in Rensselaer County. Mr. Hanlon is a 1992 graduate of SUNY Binghamton and a 1996 graduate of Albany Law School.

    Ms. Lesperance joined the U.S. Attorney’s Office in 2012 and prior to her appointment as Civil Chief served as Deputy Civil Chief.  Prior to joining the U.S. Attorney’s Office, Ms. Lesperance was an associate with McCabe and Mack LLP and with Testa, Hurwitz and Thibeault LLP. Ms. Lesperance is a 1995 graduate of SUNY Albany and a 1999 graduate of Albany Law School.

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-Evening Report: NZ’s over-reliance on roads for freight means natural disasters hit even harder. But there is a fix

    Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Cécile L’Hermitte, Senior Lecturer in Logistics and Supply Chain Management, University of Waikato

    In the aftermath of Cyclone Gabrielle, the driving time between Napier and Wairoa stretched from 90 minutes to over six hours, causing major supply chain delays. Retail prices rose and shoppers faced empty shelves.

    Natural hazards such as earthquakes and flooding can wreak havoc on Aotearoa New Zealand’s freight system. These crises can cause extensive road damage, isolating communities and creating disruptions in supply chain operations.

    Cyclone Gabrielle was by no means a one-off. The 2021 flooding in Canterbury, for example, forced trucks to travel nearly 900 extra kilometres between Christchurch and Timaru, extending the travel time from two to 13 hours.

    Severe weather events, the pandemic and the ongoing dispute about replacing the Cook Strait ferries have made the fragility of the freight system more apparent than ever.

    To be fair, natural hazards are beyond our control. But resilience can be increased. Our new research identified the main vulnerabilities in the country’s freight system and analysed the factors leading to post-disaster disruptions and shortages on shelves.

    The key to reducing freight disruptions, we found, is embracing and investing in the different ways goods can be moved around the country. In particular, using the thousands of kilometres of coastline offers another way to get items from one region to another.

    Rather than relying almost exclusively on the road network to move products, the government should invest in shipping infrastructure.
    Rachel Moon/Shutterstock

    Over-reliance on roads

    New Zealand’s freight system is heavily reliant on roads, with trucks carrying close to 93% of the domestic freight tonnage.

    But as they are currently organised, other potentially useful forms of transport such as rail and coastal shipping are not great alternatives. Non-road options run on timetables, for example, resulting in longer transit times.

    And unlike road transport, which can move products directly between two points, rail and coastal shipping require multiple points of contact from where the goods are produced through to where they are sold.

    As a result, when a disaster hits, alternative road routes are typically used to maintain freight deliveries. The limited alternatives in the road network and the lack of roads that can withstand heavy freight can cause problems for trucking companies. Both travel distances and transit times can increase.

    When this happens, more trucks and drivers are needed, but these are already in short supply. The transport industry has been struggling to fill positions, with an estimated shortfall of thousands of drivers across the country.

    This is compounded by the shortage of trucks, particularly specialised vehicles such as refrigerated units, which are essential for transporting perishable goods.

    NZ’s long coastlines offer options

    Government policy has a key role to play in addressing these problems and the lack of resilience in the national infrastructure system. In a country with long coastlines, reducing reliance on road transport and developing coastal shipping should be considered.

    By shifting a portion of freight to coastal shipping, the demand for trucks and drivers can be reduced. This would also ensure reliable freight movements between the North and the South Islands when the ferry services are disrupted.

    Finally, investing in coastal shipping would create a more flexible and resilient transport system where goods can shift rapidly from road to sea after a disaster.

    Achieving this would require infrastructure improvements at our domestic seaports and additional vessels to increase the frequency of service. There would also need to be operational integration between road, rail and sea, with synchronised timetables for shorter transit times.

    There will inevitably be another natural disaster that disrupts the freight system, causing delays, empty shelves and increased prices. Diversifying the transport options would increase resilience and keep those goods moving.

    Cécile L’Hermitte receives funding from Te Hiranga Rū QuakeCoRE, a Centre for Research Excellence funded by the New Zealand Tertiary Education Commission.

    – ref. NZ’s over-reliance on roads for freight means natural disasters hit even harder. But there is a fix – https://theconversation.com/nzs-over-reliance-on-roads-for-freight-means-natural-disasters-hit-even-harder-but-there-is-a-fix-253008

    MIL OSI Analysis – EveningReport.nz –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Murphy, Blumenthal Announce Resolution Honoring UConn’s National Championship

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Connecticut – Chris Murphy

    April 16, 2025

    HARTFORD—U.S. Senators Chris Murphy (D-Conn.) and Richard Blumenthal (D-Conn.) on Wednesday announced a resolution congratulating the University of Connecticut women’s basketball team for winning the 2025 National Collegiate Athletic Association (NCAA) Women’s Basketball Championship. The resolution commends the Huskies’ dominant and record-breaking performance on their way to their twelfth national title since 1995, a feat no other college team has surpassed. The senators also recognize Azzi Fudd for being named the Most Outstanding Player of the tournament and congratulate UConn fans, students, and faculty for the incredible accomplishment.
    “The UConn women’s team’s run through the tournament was dominant, and as usual, they made our state so proud as they won their record 12th national championship. Watching Sarah Strong, Paige Bueckers, and Azzi Fudd all playing at the top of their game with the brightest lights on them was so inspiring,” said Murphy. “Congratulations to the team and all the support staff that make our women’s team such a force.”
    “The Huskies have solidified Connecticut’s title as the Basketball Capital of the World with their record-breaking win – filling our entire state with immense joy and pride,” said Blumenthal. “This resolution honors the teamwork, tenacity, and talent of the UConn Women’s team and its coaches, and celebrates the devotion of their fans. Congratulations Huskies!”
    Full text of the resolution is available HERE.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Secretary Noem Terminates $2.7 Million in DHS Grants; Orders Harvard to Prove Compliance with Foreign Student Requirements

    Source: US Department of Homeland Security

    WASHINGTON – Today, Department of Homeland Security Secretary Kristi Noem announced the cancelation of two DHS grants totaling over $2.7 million to Harvard University, declaring it unfit to be entrusted with taxpayer dollars. The Secretary also wrote a scathing letter demanding detailed records on Harvard’s foreign student visa holders’ illegal and violent activities by April 30, 2025, or face immediate loss of Student and Exchange Visitor Program (SEVP) certification.

    “Harvard bending the knee to antisemitism — driven by its spineless leadership — fuels a cesspool of extremist riots and threatens our national security,” said Secretary Noem. “With anti-American, pro-Hamas ideology poisoning its campus and classrooms, Harvard’s position as a top institution of higher learning is a distant memory. America demands more from universities entrusted with taxpayer dollars.”

    The $800,303 Implementation Science for Targeted Violence Prevention grant branded conservatives as far-right dissidents in a shockingly skewed study. The $1,934,902 Blue Campaign Program Evaluation and Violence Advisement grant funded Harvard’s public health propaganda. Both undermine America’s values and security.

    This action follows President Donald J. Trump’s decision to freeze $2.2 billion in federal funding to Harvard University, proposing the revocation of its tax-exempt status over its radical ideology.

    Since Hamas’s October 7, 2023, attack on Israel, Harvard’s foreign visa-holding rioters and faculty have spewed antisemitic hate, targeting Jewish students. With a $53.2 billion endowment, Harvard can fund its own chaos—DHS won’t. And if Harvard cannot verify it is in full compliance with its reporting requirements, the university will lose the privilege of enrolling foreign students.

    ###

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: Enduring Pacific bonds reinforced

    Source: New Zealand Government

    A high-level delegation from across Parliament has reinforced New Zealand’s enduring bonds to the Pacific over the past week, Deputy Prime Minister Winston Peters says.
    “Our New Zealand Parliamentarians drawn from five political parties, across government and opposition, have spent time in Tonga, Hawaii, Fiji and Vanuatu connecting with our Pacific family,” Mr Peters says.
    “We live in challenging and uncertain times, and it is more important than ever that the Pacific works together towards a more secure, more prosperous and more resilient region.
    “This visit has helped us to gain a fresh understanding of priorities from right across the region, in Polynesia, Melanesia and Micronesia – and what more New Zealand can do to help.”
    Pacific Peoples, Science & Innovation, and Universities Minister Dr Shane Reti says higher education helps drive prosperity and, in tumultuous times, engenders understanding and tolerance.
    “We are working to ensure New Zealand’s science, innovation and university sectors contribute to Pacific development for mutual benefit,” says Dr Reti. 
    Climate Change and Energy Minister, Simon Watts says New Zealand’s Pacific neighbours are among the most vulnerable to the impacts of climate change.
    “We are committed to collaborating with Pacific nations to increase energy security to help deal with the effects of climate change,” says Mr Watts.
    Courts Minister Nicole McKee says the delegation benefited from engaging with a broad range of Pacific counterparts.
    “Forging new relationships and re-connecting with established partners has been productive for both the New Zealand delegation and our Pacific brethren,” says Mrs McKee.
    The other members of the delegation have been:

    Deputy Leader of the Opposition, Carmel Sepuloni;
    Chair of Foreign Affairs, Defence and Trade Committee, Tim van de Molen;
    Co-Chairs of the New Zealand-Pacific Interparliamentary Friendship Group, Teanau Tuiono and Jenny Salesa; and
    Chair of the Transport and Infrastructure Committee, Andy Foster.

    The delegation returns to New Zealand later today (17 April).

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: Health – Fresh Minds continues to support workforce pathways with Psychology interns

    Source: ProCare

    ProCare Fresh Minds, New Zealand’s largest provider of primary mental health and wellbeing services, is delighted to announce the continuation of Health New Zealand’s Psychologist Intern Hub Services for 2025, alongside Tāmaki Health.

    The Intern Hub is based at Fresh Minds’ busy central Auckland clinics, and at one of Tāmaki Health’s sites, and sees the interns working in various clinical settings across Tāmaki Makaurau.

    The internships are available for students in any University in Aotearoa who are undertaking their final year of post-graduate training in either Clinical Psychology or Health Psychology. This year, Fresh Minds is hosting students from the University of Otago, University of Auckland, and Victoria University of Wellington.

    Bindi Norwell, Group CEO at ProCare says: “The Psychologist Intern Hub is helping work towards Minister Doocey’s mental health targets to grow the mental health and addiction workforce. This programme supports the next generation of psychologists by providing an opportunity for hands-on training in diverse clinical settings. This internship provides students with workplace experience, supervision and mentorship, ensuring that the next generation of psychologists is well equipped in the workforce.

    “To secure the future of mental health care in Aotearoa, we need a whole-of-system approach that addresses immediate workforce shortages while building long-term, sustainable solutions. Providing robust, well-supported internships like these help psychology students thrive during training and encourages them to stay in the profession – an area that ProCare Fresh Minds is pleased to be supporting,” states Norwell.

    Dr Tania Wilson, General Manager at ProCare Fresh Minds says: “”Embedding psychology interns in primary care is a fantastic step for New Zealand’s mental health system. It helps make primary care a more viable and attractive career path for graduates, while also strengthening early intervention and bringing mental health support closer to where people live and work, normalising access and improving community wellbeing.

    “Furthermore, the primary care setting of ProCare Fresh Minds provides interns a unique opportunity to develop real-world clinical skills in a fast-paced, culturally diverse environment. In Aotearoa, this means working holistically in a stepped model of care, delivering targeted, impactful interventions that make a real difference in everyday lives,” continues Dr Wilson.

    “Looking ahead, we’re committed to scaling up our integrated primary mental health and addictions services. Training and preparing new psychologists for this vital work is a key step toward addressing New Zealand’s significant workforce shortage in mental health, particularly the shortage of psychologists. We’re confident the Psychologist Intern Hub will continue to create a strong pipeline of emerging psychologists, introducing them to meaningful career opportunities in the growing field of primary mental and behavioural health, particularly as we look to continue and scale up this work with Health New Zealand moving forward,” concludes Dr Wilson.

    Fresh Minds is committed to grow its team of psychologists, nurses, and other allied health professionals, with experience in third wave talking therapies, including Cognitive Behavioural Therapy, Dialectical Behavioural Therapy, and Acceptance & Commitment Therapy. Additionally, the organisation is passionate about delivering targeted talking therapies and is flexible in meeting interns’ needs in their university programmes. There will also be opportunities for ongoing professional development relevant to the role of a psychologist working in our settings.

     

    Notes:

    Fresh Minds’ supervising Clinical Psychologist is Dr Amanda Willets, and Tāmaki Health’s supervising Health Psychologist is Pam Low.

    About ProCare Fresh Minds
    ProCare Fresh Minds is a leading provider of primary mental health and wellbeing support in Aotearoa New Zealand. Fresh Minds provides psychology support services for individuals in-person and online and in a variety of settings including Fresh Minds centres, schools, workplaces, the community, and in General Practice. Fresh Minds is supported by comprehensive clinical governance, expertise and rigorous systems to ensure the support is of the highest quality. www.freshminds.co.nz

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-OSI: Bigstack Opportunities I Inc. Enters Into Definitive Agreement For Qualifying Transaction

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    TORONTO, April 16, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Bigstack Opportunities I Inc. (“Bigstack”) (TSXV: STAK.P), a capital pool company as defined under the policies of the TSX Venture Exchange (the “TSXV” or the “Exchange”), is pleased to announce that, further to the non-binding letter of intent dated November 3, 2024 between Bigstack and Reeflex Coil Solutions Inc. (“Reeflex”) and its press releases dated November 4, 2024 and January 17, 2025, it has entered into a business combination agreement dated April 14, 2025 (the “Business Combination Agreement”) with Reeflex and 2704122 Alberta Ltd., a wholly-owned subsidiary of Bigstack (“Subco”). Reeflex and all of the shareholders (the “Coil Shareholders”) of Coil Solutions Inc. (“Coil”) have entered into a share purchase agreement dated April 14, 2025 (the “Share Purchase Agreement”).

    Terms of the Transaction

    The Business Combination Agreement provides for a three-cornered amalgamation (the “Business Combination”), whereby (i) Reeflex will amalgamate with Subco under the Business Corporations Act (Alberta), (ii) all of the issued and outstanding common shares in the capital of Reeflex (the “Reeflex Shares”) immediately prior to the Business Combination will be cancelled and, in consideration therefor, the holders thereof (the “Reeflex Shareholders”) will receive one common share in the capital of Bigstack (“Bigstack Share”) on the basis of one Reeflex Share for one Bigstack Share at a deemed price of $0.10 per Bigstack Share and (iii) the amalgamated corporation (the “Amalco”) will be a wholly-owned subsidiary of Bigstack, all on the terms and conditions of the Business Combination Agreement.

    Prior to the completion of the Business Combination, pursuant to the Share Purchase Agreement, it is intended that Reeflex will purchase all of the issued and outstanding shares in the capital of Coil (the “Acquisition” and, together with the Business Combination, the “Transaction”) from the Coil Shareholders for aggregate consideration of $5.8 million, subject to a post-closing working capital adjustment, which is expected to be paid and satisfied by way of (i) Reeflex issuing secured non-interest bearing promissory notes to each Coil Shareholder with an aggregate principal amount equal to $1,700,000 that are to be fully paid within 5 business days of the closing of the Acquisition, (ii) Reeflex issuing secured promissory notes to each Coil Shareholder with an aggregate principal amount equal to $2,300,000 that bear interest at the prime rate published by the Bank of Canada from time to time and are paid down monthly and to be fully paid on the fifth anniversary of the closing of the Acquisition and (iii) Reeflex issuing an aggregate of 18,000,000 Reeflex Shares to the Coil Shareholders at a deemed price of $0.10 per Reeflex Share, all upon the terms and conditions of the Share Purchase Agreement.

    After giving effect to the Transaction, the Reeflex Shareholders will collectively exercise control over Bigstack, Bigstack will wholly-own Amalco and Amalco will wholly-own Coil. Bigstack, as it exists upon completion of the Transaction (the “Resulting Issuer”), is expected to continue the business of Coil.

    It is anticipated that all convertible securities of Bigstack will be exercised prior to completion of the Transaction; however, if any warrants to purchase common shares of Bigstack remain outstanding following the completion of the Transaction, they shall continue to be exercisable for common shares of the Resulting Issuer in accordance with their terms. It is anticipated that Bigstack will change its name to “Reeflex Solutions Inc.” on or immediately prior to the completion of the Transaction.

    Immediately prior to the closing of the Transaction, it is anticipated that (i) assuming completion of the anticipated exercise of all convertible securities of Bigstack, there will be 10,662,000 Bigstack Shares issued and outstanding and (ii) holders of Reeflex Shares will hold 36,239,500 Reeflex Shares. Therefore, immediately following the closing of the Transaction, it is anticipated that there will be 46,901,500 common shares of the Resulting Issuer issued and outstanding.

    Bigstack anticipates that the Transaction will constitute its Qualifying Transaction pursuant to Policy 2.4 – Capital Pool Companies of the Exchange (the “CPC Policy”), as such term is defined in the policies of the Exchange, and it is expected that Bigstack will be a Tier 2 Industrial Issuer on the Exchange upon completion of the Transaction.

    The proposed Transaction is not a “Non-Arm’s Length Qualifying Transaction” as such term is defined in the CPC Policy. No Non-Arm’s Length Party to Bigstack (as such term is defined in the CPC Policy) (a) has any direct or indirect beneficial interest in Reeflex or Coil, or (b) is an insider of Reeflex or Coil. There is no relationship between or among a Non-Arm’s Length Party to Bigstack and a Non-Arm’s Length Party to the Qualifying Transaction (as such terms are defined in the CPC Policy). It is not expected that the Transaction will be subject to approval by the shareholders of Bigstack.

    Completion of the Transaction is subject to a number of conditions, including but not limited to, the satisfaction of all conditions provided for in the Business Combination Agreement, which will include representations, warranties, covenants and conditions customary for a transaction of this nature, and the receipt of all necessary regulatory, corporate and third party approvals, including TSXV acceptance and, if applicable pursuant to TSXV requirements, majority of the minority shareholder approval. Where applicable, the Transaction cannot close until the required shareholder approval is obtained. There can be no assurance that the Transaction will be completed as proposed or at all. Investors are cautioned that, except as disclosed in the management information circular or filing statement to be prepared in connection with the Transaction, any information released or received with respect to the Transaction may not be accurate or complete and should not be relied upon. Trading in the securities of a capital pool company should be considered highly speculative. The TSXV has in no way passed upon the merits of the proposed transaction and has neither approved nor disapproved the contents of this press release.

    Business and History of Reeflex

    Reeflex is a privately-held corporation incorporated under the Business Corporations Act (Alberta) on June 14, 2024. Its head and registered offices are located in Calgary. Reeflex currently has no business operations or assets other than cash and a management team that has been working on the Transaction and the proposed going public structure for the past year.

    Business and History of Coil

    Founded in 2007 in Redcliff, Alberta, Coil specializes in innovative drilling products and services for the global oil and gas industry. In 2010, Coil expanded its operations, opening a second facility in Calgary, Alberta, introducing a line of downhole fracking tools and venturing into custom tool design. In 2012, Coil launched its coil tubing injector line. In 2013, Coil opened a third facility in Red Deer, Alberta. In 2014, Coil developed two distinct models of, and manufactured, its first full coil tubing units. In 2016, Coil expanded sales to Asia, Africa, Australia, North America, South America and Europe. In 2017, Coil designed and built the largest free-standing mast unit in the world. In 2022, Coil established a dedicated manufacturing division in Calgary, Alberta, operating under its tradename, Ranglar, for injectors and mobile equipment. In 2024, Coil completed a reorganization with its shareholders, which resulted in the conversion of preferred shares and debt into common shares. Today, Coil continues to focus on coiled tubing solutions and downhole tools, offering a comprehensive range of services including rentals, sales, training, testing and consulting. With 41 employees, Coil has developed patented products that are distributed worldwide, including a key distributor in Germany and more than 60 active clients.

    The following tables set out selected financial information of Coil for the periods indicated therein:

      Financial Year ended
    2024
    (audited)
    ($)    		 Financial Year ended
    2023
    (audited)
    ($)
    Total revenues 14,265,524 14,069,331
    Income from continuing operations 1,750,495 2,193,603
    Net income or loss, in total 1,089,024 1,554,716
    Total assets 9,969,946 11,752,788
    Total long term financial liabilities 735,009 1,006,362
    Cash dividends NIL 111,736

    Concurrent Financing

    In advance of the Transaction, Reeflex completed a non-brokered private placement of 4,139,500 subscription receipts (each, a “Subscription Receipt”) at a price of $0.20 per Subscription Receipt, for aggregate gross proceeds of $827,900 (the “Concurrent Financing”).

    The gross proceeds resulting from the Concurrent Financing are (and will continue to be) held by Marrelli Trust Company Limited as subscription receipt and escrow agent until certain escrow release conditions are satisfied, including the completion of the Acquisition and the receipt of written confirmation from the TSX Venture Exchange that all conditions precedent to the Transaction have been satisfied (collectively, the “Escrow Release Conditions”). Upon satisfaction of the Escrow Release Conditions, and prior to the completion of the Transaction, the gross proceeds from the Concurrent Financing will be released from escrow and each Subscription Receipt will automatically convert into one Reeflex Share. In connection with the Concurrent Financing, Reeflex has paid to registered dealers and such other persons permitted under applicable securities laws who act as finders for the Concurrent Offering a finder’s fee an aggregate of $21,336, representing 7% of the gross proceeds resulting from subscriptions that were introduced to Reeflex by the finder. Except for the foregoing, it is not expected that any finder’s fee or commission will be payable in connection with the Transaction.

    Reeflex intends to use the proceeds of the Concurrent Financing for general corporate and working capital purposes.

    Resulting Issuer

    The Parties expect that the Resulting Issuer following from the Transaction will carry on the existing business of Coil and be an industrial issuer focused on providing coiled tubing and downhole tool solutions to the oil and gas industry. See “Terms of the Transaction” above for details concerning the expected corporate structure of the Resulting Issuer upon completion of the Transaction.

    Upon completion of the Transaction, the Parties expect that the board of directors of the Resulting Issuer will consist of the following four (4) directors, of whom three (3) will be independent. John Babic will not be independent as he will be the President and Chief Executive Officer of the Resulting Issuer.

    John Babic – Proposed President, Chief Executive Officer and Director of Resulting Issuer

    John Babic is an accomplished executive with nearly 40 years of experience in the oil and gas sector, covering upstream, downstream, and manufacturing operations. He currently serves as the President and CEO of 1175317 Alberta Ltd., an investment and real estate holding company.

    Throughout his career, Mr. Babic has held several senior executive positions, including CEO of Reeflex Coil Solutions Inc. and CEO and Director of various public companies such as Dalmac Energy Inc., an oilfield transportation and services company; Raydan Manufacturing Inc., a manufacturer specializing in heavy-duty transportation suspension systems; Hyduke Energy Services Inc., a manufacturer of oilfield equipment, including drilling and service rigs; and Sawtooth Resources Inc., an oil and gas exploration and production company.

    In addition, Mr. Babic has served for 7 years as a Director of Edmonton Economic Development Corporation, contributing to the city’s economic growth and development initiatives.

    Mr. Babic holds both a Bachelor of Arts and Bachelor of Commerce degree from the University of Alberta.

    Shawn Szydlowski – Proposed Director of Resulting Issuer

    Shawn Szydlowski is a seasoned business leader with over 30 years of experience in corporate management, entrepreneurship, and financial oversight. As the founder of Care For A Ride, established in 2009, Mr. Szydlowski built a successful business focused on providing safe, reliable transportation for seniors, enabling them to maintain independence and quality of life.

    His career also includes 15 years with Dalmac Energy, where he held key roles such as Interim CFO and Chairman of the Audit Committee. Mr. Szydlowski played a crucial role in navigating the company through complex financial challenges, ensuring regulatory compliance, and fostering sustainable growth. Additionally, he brings 20 years of experience in corporate sales and account management, where he consistently drove strategic results, earning the President’s Club Award for three consecutive years.

    Eric Szustak – Proposed Director of Resulting Issuer

    Mr. Szustak is currently the President, Chief Executive Officer, Chief Financial Officer, Corporate Secretary and a director of Bigstack. He is a Chartered Professional Accountant and Chartered Accountant with over 35 years’ experience in financial services, business development, marketing, accounting, and as Chief Financial Officer of various reporting issuers. Mr. Szustak is currently Chairman and Corporate Secretary of Quinsam Capital Corporation, which is a public merchant bank listed on the CSE, a director of Copper Road Resources Inc., a mining company listed on the TSXV, and a director of Nevada Organic Phosphate Inc., a fertilizer company listed on the CSE. Mr. Szustak’s previous experience also includes 14 years with three national brokerage firms: Midland Walwyn, Merril Lynch and BMO Nesbitt Burns, in various positions, including private client wealth groups, management and securities compliance. Mr. Szustak will be Chair of the Audit Committee of the Resulting Issuer in addition to his general duties as a director of the Resulting Issuer. Mr. Szustak will devote such percentage of his working time to the affairs of the Resulting Issuer as is required to fulfill his duties to the same.

    Derrek Dobko – Proposed Director of Resulting Issuer

    Derrek Dobko is a seasoned financial officer with over 20 years of experience in the oilfield service, manufacturing, and transportation industries. He has held senior finance positions in both public and private companies, showcasing his expertise in financial management and reporting.

    As controller of Raydan Manufacturing, Mr. Dobko was responsible for the company’s financial reporting in accordance with IFRS and the preparation of all financial information required under TSXV reporting standards. His career also includes senior accounting roles at Peak Energy Services, Alta-Fab Structures, and his current position with NTS Amega Canada.

    Additionally, Mr. Dobko has gained valuable operational experience in the transportation sector, particularly in managing financial operations for Liquids in Motion, a mid-sized trucking company. He holds a Bachelor of Commerce from the University of Alberta and is a Certified Professional Accountant (CPA), with a designation from CPA Alberta.

    Upon completion of the Transaction, the following persons are also expected to constitute insiders of the Resulting Issuer:

    Trevor Conway – Proposed Chief Financial Officer and Secretary of Resulting Issuer

    Trevor Conway is an accomplished mid-market investment banking professional with extensive transaction experience across various industry sectors, including energy. He previously served as CFO of Reconciliation Energy Transition Inc., a Calgary-based energy transition project development company and as Special Advisor to BluMaple Capital Partners, a Calgary-based private equity firm focused on low-carbon energy innovators.

    Prior to these roles, Mr. Conway was the Managing Director and Head of Energy Investment Banking at iA Capital Markets, a division of iA Private Wealth and part of iA Financial Group, a leading Canadian financial institution.

    Mr. Conway holds an MBA from the Ivey Business School at Western University, a BA (Special) in Economics from the University of Alberta, and a Sustainable Investment Professional Certificate (SIPC) from the John Molson Executive Centre at Concordia University. He is also a former Fellow of the Canadian Securities Institute (FCSI).

    In addition to his professional work, Mr. Conway has contributed to several industry and community initiatives. He has served on the National & Local Advisory Committee of the TSX Venture Exchange and was Past Director and Governor of the Canadian Energy Executive Association.

    George Wu – Proposed Director of Amalco

    George Wu is a distinguished financial executive with a proven track record in leading complex financial strategies and driving portfolio success. With extensive expertise in bank debt, structured finance, fixed income, and equity analysis, he excels in portfolio management and strategic financial planning. His leadership has successfully optimized portfolios, resulting in a 20% increase in returns over the past three years.

    Known for his exceptional relationship-building skills, Mr. Wu has effectively engaged as a financial strategist with c-suite executives and diverse stakeholders. He holds a CFA, MBA, and B.Sc. (Honours Program) and currently serves as Portfolio Manager and Chief Compliance Officer at a leading independent portfolio management firm in Edmonton, ensuring top-tier financial stewardship and compliance.

    In addition to his professional accomplishments, Mr. Wu mentors commerce undergraduates through the University of Alberta’s PRIME Program, contributing to the development of future leaders in investment management. Mr. Wu and his family have called Edmonton home since 2000, where they enjoy a multilingual household speaking English, French, and Mandarin Chinese.

    Cecil Hassard – Proposed Director of Amalco

    Mr. Cecil Hassard is an accomplished entrepreneur and business leader with a proven track record of driving innovation and operational excellence in the oil and gas industry. In 2007, he co-founded Coil which has grown to become a global provider of high-quality products and innovative solutions for the energy sector. He further diversified the company’s offerings by introducing the “Ranglar” division, based in Calgary, Alberta, which manufactures custom mobile equipment for industries such as oil and gas, mining, and more.

    Under his leadership, Coil has established a strong presence in Canada and the United States, and in serving clients worldwide. He broadened Coil’s capabilities with the “Ranglar” division, enabling tailored solutions to a broader range of industries with specialized equipment. He has driven advancements in operational efficiency and provided cutting-edge solutions for the energy sector. Mr. Cecil Hassard’s entrepreneurial vision has established Coil as a dynamic and influential leader in the global oil and gas industry.

    Bryan Hassard – Proposed Chief Operating Officer of Coil

    Mr. Bryan Hassard is an accomplished business leader and co-founder of Coil, established in 2007. He serves as the Vice President of Manufacturing and a director of Coil, playing a critical role in the company’s operations and strategic direction.

    Mr. Bryan Hassard’s leadership has been instrumental in expanding Coil’s sales from Canada to the United States and globally, enhancing the company’s ability to serve the oil and gas industry on a broader scale utilizing distributors in different areas. As Vice President of Manufacturing, he oversees production processes, ensuring high-quality standards and operational efficiency. Mr. Bryan Hassard’s dedication to innovation and excellence has significantly contributed to the growth and success of Coil.

    Sponsorship

    Sponsorship of a qualifying transaction of a capital pool company is required by the TSXV unless an exemption from the sponsorship requirement is available. Bigstack has applied for a waiver from the sponsorship requirements. There is no assurance that the Bigstack will be able to obtain such a waiver.

    Trading Halt

    Trading in the Bigstack Shares was halted, as previously disclosed in Bigstack’s press release dated November 4, 2024, and is not expected to resume until the Transaction is completed or until the Exchange receives the requisite documentation to resume trading.

    Further updates with respect to the Transaction may be provided as the Transaction proceeds.

    Overview of Bigstack

    Bigstack is a “capital pool company” under the policies of the Exchange and it is intended that the Transaction will constitute the “Qualifying Transaction” of Bigstack, as such term is defined in CPC Policy. The Bigstack Shares are currently listed on the Exchange and Bigstack is a reporting issuer in the provinces of Alberta, British Columbia and Ontario. Bigstack was incorporated under the Business Corporations Act (Ontario) on November 25, 2020.

    Additional Information

    All information contained in this press release with respect to Reeflex and Coil was provided by Reeflex and Coil, respectively, to Bigstack for inclusion herein. Bigstack and its directors and officers have not independently verified such information and have relied exclusively on Reeflex and Coil for any information concerning Reeflex and Coil.

    Forward Looking Information

    This press release contains statements that constitute “forward-looking information” (“forward-looking information”) within the meaning of the applicable Canadian securities legislation. All statements, other than statements of historical fact, are forward-looking information and are based on expectations, estimates and projections as at the date of this press release. Any statement that discusses predictions, expectations, beliefs, plans, projections, objectives, assumptions, future events or performance (often but not always using phrases such as “anticipate”, “believe”, “estimate”, “expect”, “intend” or variations of such words and phrases or stating that certain actions, events or results “may”, “could”, “would”, “might” or “will” be taken to occur or be achieved) are not statements of historical fact and may be forward-looking information.

    More particularly and without limitation, this press release contains forward-looking statements concerning the Transaction and its constituents steps, including the Acquisition and the Business Combination (including the completion, structure, terms and timing thereof), the binding definitive agreements relating to the Transaction, including in respect of the Acquisition, the expected capital structure and expected shareholders of, and the expected size of their shareholdings in, the Resulting Issuer, the expected corporate structure of the Resulting Issuer and its subsidiaries, if any, the future financial performance of the Resulting Issuer or any of the parties, the Concurrent Financing, including the amount expected to be raised thereunder, any finder’s fees or commissions payable in relation to the same, and expected use of proceeds therefrom, the Subscription Receipts and Escrow Release Conditions, the expected composition of the board of directors and management of the Resulting Issuer and its subsidiaries, if any, TSXV sponsorship requirements and any exemptions therefrom, the issuance of additional press releases describing the Transaction, the trading of the Bigstack Shares on the TSXV and the holding of shareholder meetings in connection with the Transaction. Although Bigstack believes that the expectations reflected in such forward-looking information are reasonable, it can give no assurance that the expectations of any forward-looking information will prove to be correct. Known and unknown risks, uncertainties and other factors may cause the actual results and future events to differ materially from those expressed or implied by such forward-looking information. Such factors include, but are not limited to: delay or failure to receive board, shareholder or regulatory approvals; inability to complete the Concurrent Financing on the terms described herein or at all; and general business, economic, competitive, political and social uncertainties. There can be no certainty that the Transaction and related transactions will be completed on the terms set out in the Letter of Intent and other agreements among the Parties or at all. Accordingly, readers should not place undue reliance on the forward-looking information contained in this press release. Except as required by law, Bigstack disclaims any intention and assumes no obligation to update or revise any forward-looking information to reflect actual results, whether as a result of new information, future events, changes in assumptions, changes in factors affecting such forward-looking information or otherwise.

    Investors are cautioned that, except as disclosed in the management information circular or filing statement to be prepared in connection with the Transaction, any information released or received with respect to the Transaction may not be accurate or complete and should not be relied upon. Trading in the securities of a capital pool company should be considered highly speculative.

    The TSX Venture Exchange Inc. has in no way passed upon the merits of the proposed Transaction and has neither approved nor disapproved the contents of this press release.

    Bigstack Opportunities I Inc.

    For further information, please contact Eric Szustak, the President, Chief Executive Officer, Chief Financial Officer, Corporate Secretary and a director of Bigstack.

    Eric Szustak
    President, CEO, CFO, Corporate Secretary and Director
    Email: eszustak@jbrlimited.com
    Telephone: (905) 330-7948

    Neither TSX Venture Exchange nor its Regulation Services Provider (as that term is defined in the policies of the TSX Venture Exchange) accepts responsibility for the adequacy or accuracy of this release.

    The securities have not been and will not be registered under the United States Securities Act of 1933, as amended and may not be offered or sold in the United States absent registration or an applicable exemption from the registration requirement. This press release shall not constitute an offer to sell or the solicitation of an offer to buy nor shall there be any sale of the securities in any jurisdiction in which such offer, solicitation or sale would be unlawful.

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: expert reaction to study of nitrogen fertilised grassland and pollen allergies

    Source: United Kingdom – Executive Government & Departments

    A study published in The Lancet Planetary Health looks at the impact of nitrogen fertiliser on pollen allergies.

    Dr Roy Neilson, Soil Ecologist, The James Hutton Institute, said:

    “Daelemans et al. take a novel approach of pollen assessment in considering the impact of nitrogen fertiliser application on pollen burden. Using a paired design at 25 grassland sites within a region of Belgium, and based on two sampling periods during May, the authors report that nitrogen-enriched grasslands had a 6·2-fold increase in pollen compared with their unfertilised paired grassland.

    “The results of the study arguably support the importance of species-specific grass pollen monitoring given that a subset of grass species may have disproportionate influence on respiratory health responses during peak grass pollen concentrations1. However, it is unclear how nitrogen driven increase in pollen will contribute to the predicted increase in pollen season severity by up to 60% due to a changing climate2.

    “Peaks in abundance of pollen occur at different times during the summer across the UK3 thus, it is unclear whether sampling in a single month as the study of Daelemans et al. would have the same outcome across the entire pollen season. Moreover, unlike tree pollen, a recent study reported that grass (Poaceae) pollen seasons are neither becoming more severe nor longer in the UK4.

    “Adoption of Regenerative Agricultural principles5 such as reducing synthetic inputs (e.g., inorganic nitrogen-based fertiliser) has potential to contribute to the mitigation of the outcomes reported by Daelemans et al.”

    References:

    1 Rowney, et al. (2021). Environmental DNA analysis reveals links between abundance and composition of airborne grass pollen and respiratory health. Current Biology, 31, 1-9.

    2 Kurganskiy, et al. (2021). Predicting the severity of the grass pollen season and the effect of climate change in Northwest Europe. Science Advances, 7, eabd7658.

    3 Brennan, et al. (2019). Grass allergy season defined by spatio-temporal shifts in airborne pollen biodiversity. Nature Ecology and Evolution, 3, 750-754.

    4 Adams-Groom, B., Selby, K., Derrett, S., Frisk, C.A., Pashley, C.H., Satchwell, J., King, D., McKenzie, G., and Neilson, R. (2022). Pollen season trends as markers of climate change impact: Betula, Quercus and Poaceae. Science of the Total Environment, 831, 154882.

    5 British Ecological Society (2025). Regenerative Agriculture in the UK: An Ecological Perspective. London, UK.

    Dr Roberto Picetti, Assistant Professor, London School of Hygiene & Tropical Medicine (LSHTM) said:

    “This study highlights the impact of nitrogen pollution on allergies, which is an under-recognised pathway affecting human health.

    “These findings are relevant to the UK, where nitrogen pollution remains a concern both in agricultural areas and in cities, and is already linked to other environmental and health problems, including respiratory illness, biodiversity loss, and air and water quality degradation.

    “It builds on well-established research which continues to find a link between high levels of nitrogen and changes in plant communities and pollen abundance, and to increased immune responses in individuals who are allergic to grass pollen.

    “This is a high-quality study that adds valuable evidence to an important and emerging area of public health. The conclusions are well grounded in the data, do not overstate the implications, and make a compelling case for further research and policy attention. Although observational studies are not able to account for every possible variable, this research uses a range of scientific approaches, such as ecology, molecular analysis and immunological testing, to strengthen its conclusions.

    “This study is a valuable step towards understanding and addressing the growing problem of pollen allergies and supports the case for more comprehensive environmental policies that consider both the health and ecological impacts of nitrogen pollution.

    “By reducing nitrogen pollution, we could help protect biodiversity and lessen the severity of pollen allergies.”

    (from our friends at SMC Spain) Dr José Gómez Rial, Head of the Immunology Department at the Complejo Hospitalario Universitario de Santiago de Compostela (CHUS), Servicio Gallego de Salud (SERGAS) (Spain), said:

    “The study shows that nitrogen-enriched meadows produce up to six times more pollen than their unfertilised equivalents, and that this pollen has a greater capacity to activate immune cells in allergy sufferers, with a 5.1-fold increase in sensitivity in basophil activation tests and a 1.3-fold increase in specific immunoglobulin E (IgE) levels. Although the exact mechanism is not detailed in the article, it is plausible that excess nitrogen modifies the biochemical composition of pollen, increasing the quantity or proportion of allergenic proteins synthesised by the plant, which would enhance its capacity to activate the immune system.

    “These findings have important implications for both ecology and health. On the one hand, they reveal that nitrogen pollution not only affects plant biodiversity but can also directly aggravate highly prevalent allergic diseases such as rhinitis or seasonal asthma. On the other hand, they emphasise the need to integrate public health into environmental policies: reducing nitrogen emissions and limiting the use of fertilisers would not only contribute to preserving ecosystems but could also reduce the burden of disease associated with respiratory allergies. The concept of One Health applies not only to human and animal health, but also to plant health and the environment”.

    (from our friends at SMC Spain) Prof África González-Fernández, Researcher at CINBIO, Professor of Immunology at the University of Vigo (Spain), said:

    “The experiment is well-reasoned, but they analyse few cases (25 people in rich areas and 25 in areas not enriched with fertilisers). It has not been done in other areas, and the in vitro trials were carried out with 20 subjects. There is a lack of healthy controls.

    “There are studies from years ago on the increase in allergy and nitrogen fertilisers, as well as on NO2 levels and allergy. There is a lot of literature on the subject. Other studies have been carried out measuring IgE levels and they have included a basophil release test, which is currently used routinely in immunology laboratories in hospitals. They conclude that allergic patients recognise more proteins in the pollen of fertilised plants (enriched in nitrogen) than in those that are not fertilised, with more production of specific IgE and more release of mediators by basophils when exposed to fertilised pollen.

    “The same authors wrote a review in 2023: Impact of environmental nitrogen pollution on pollen allergy: A scoping review. In Table 4 they describe the mechanisms by which NO2 would affect pollen and the allergic response.

    “I see several limitations:

    1. The low number of allergic patients.
    2. They do not include control cases.
    3. At high pollen concentrations, there are no in vitro differences in the basophil release study. They do not correlate these data with the actual pollen count that could be in the environment.
    4. They have only taken into account serum levels of IgE antibodies against pollen, basophil release and immunoblot studies [a technique for the identification of proteins]. They have not studied cellular responses (T lymphocytes, NK cells) which they do carry out in other studies. As an example of immunological studies, a study was also carried out in Madrid years ago on the ability of pollen to activate lymphocytes and NK cells, and it has been seen (https://onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/abs/10.1111/j.1398-9995.2007.01438.x) that pollen-allergic asthmatic patients, when they live in more polluted areas, present more and more severe symptoms.
    5. There is already previous data on pollen: Cuinica et al. (https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/24361564/), Zhao et al. (https://onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/10.1111/pce.12601), Chassard et al.(https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/25463703/) ”

    ‘The impact of ecosystem nitrogen enrichment on pollen allergy: a cross-sectional paired comparison study’ by Robin Daelemans et al. was published in The Lancet Planetary Health at 23:30 UK time on Wednesday 16th April 2025. 

    Declared interests

    Dr Roberto Picetti: No conflicts of interest to declare.

    For all other experts, no reply to our request for DOIs was received.

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI USA: 04.16.2025 Chairmen Cruz and Babin Lead State Delegation in Support of Relocating NASA HQ to Texas

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Texas Ted Cruz

    WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today, U.S. Senate Commerce, Science, and Transportation Committee Chairman Ted Cruz (R-Texas) and U.S. House Science, Space, and Technology Committee Chairman Brian Babin (R-Texas-36) led a bicameral coalition of federal lawmakers representing Texas communities in sending a letter to President Trump urging his administration to move the headquarters for the National Aeronautics and Space Administration (NASA) from Washington, D.C. to the Lyndon B. Johnson Space Center (JSC) in Houston, Texas. The lease for NASA’s current DC office expires in 2028.
    In the letter, the lawmakers argue that NASA is disconnected from the day-to-day work of its centers and hindered by bureaucratic micromanagement in Washington, D.C. Houston is well suited for NASA’s headquarters because of JSC’s substantial involvement in nearly everything that makes America a leader in space exploration. JSC maintains the largest NASA workforce, accommodates extensive research and development partnerships, and houses Mission Control, the NASA astronaut corps, and the Lunar Sample Laboratory Facility.
    Additionally, Texas boasts a strong business environment, low government regulation, a robust commercial space sector, and a cost of living that is less than half of the Washington, D.C. area. Moving the NASA headquarters to Texas will create more jobs, save taxpayer dollars, and reinvigorate America’s space agency.
    Joining Sen. Cruz and Rep. Babin in sending the letter are Sen. John Cornyn and Reps. Jodey Arrington, John Carter, Michael Cloud, Dan Crenshaw, Monica De La Cruz, Jake Ellzey, Pat Fallon, Brandon Gill, Craig Goldman, Tony Gonzales, Lance Gooden, Wesley Hunt, Ronny Jackson, Morgan Luttrell, Michael McCaul, Nathaniel Moran, Troy E. Nehls, August Pfluger, Chip Roy, Keith Self, Pete Sessions, Beth Van Duyne, Randy Weber, and Roger Williams.
    As the lawmakers wrote:
    “From its founding in 1958, the National Aeronautics and Space Administration (NASA) has a storied history of exploring new frontiers, making transformational discoveries, and reaching far into the great beyond. However, as NASA’s leadership has languished in our nation’s capital, the core missions of this critical agency are more divided than ever before. This seismic disconnect between NASA’s headquarters and its missions has opened the door to bureaucratic micromanagement and an erosion of centers’ interdependence. For NASA to return to its core mission of excellence in exploration, its headquarters should be located at a place where NASA’s most critical missions are and where transformational leadership from the ground up can be provided. In 2028 the lease for NASA’s current headquarters building in Washington, D.C. expires. We write to urge you to use this opportunity to reinvigorate our national space agency and move NASA’s headquarters from Washington D.C. to the Lyndon B. Johnson Space Center (JSC) in Houston, Texas.
    “Perhaps no city is more closely linked to America’s space program than ‘Space City.’ Some of the first words spoken on the surface of the moon called out to Houston which is home to numerous aerospace businesses. JSC in particular is the largest home of the NASA workforce, with more than 12,000 employees across its 1,620-acre facility and supporting more than 52,000 public and private jobs. As the pinnacle of human spaceflight development, Houston is home to Mission Control, the NASA astronaut corps, the Lunar Sample Laboratory Facility, commercial space agreements, and extensive research and development partnerships. JSC plays a role in nearly everything that makes America a leader in space exploration.
    “Houston is particularly well suited for NASA’s headquarters due in part to the unique strengths of the city and the state. Texas is the eighth largest economy in the world, with low government regulation and a strong business environment. Houston boasts a cost of living that is less than half that of the Washington, D.C. area ; three ‘R1: Doctoral Universities’ producing the high caliber professionals necessary for human spaceflight; and two major commercial service airports for easy connectivity around the country. In contrast, NASA’s current headquarters in Washington, D.C. is disconnected from the NASA centers across the country and thus much of the day-to-day work. Consolidating greater and greater levels of work and authority in Washington, D.C. has been a decades-long trend, resulting in decision making funneled up to bureaucrats at headquarters rather than empowering scientists and astronauts across the centers. This strategy has separated decision makers from the actual workforce and stands antithetical to NASA’s core function.
    “Relatedly, for the United States to reach the surface of Mars, NASA must rely on a robust commercial space sector. Towards that end, no state offers greater economic and geographic benefits than Texas. The Lone Star State is home to more than 2,000 aerospace, aviation, and defense-related companies, with 18 of the 20 largest aerospace companies based in Texas. Notably, SpaceX relocated their entire company to Texas, establishing the town of Starbase, Texas, to develop, test, and launch SpaceX vehicles. Similarly, Blue Origin develops engines and rockets in West Texas, leading a new generation of spaceflight, and conducts its commercial sub-orbital flights there. Firefly Aerospace, in Cedar Park, recently sent photos of Earth from its Blue Ghost lunar lander on its voyage to explore the surface of the moon. Axiom Space, based in Houston, is building the next generation spacesuit for NASA and a commercial space station to succeed the International Space Station. In addition, the State of Texas recently stood up the Texas Space Commission to promote innovation in space operations and commercial aerospace and to attract commercial space ventures to the state. These are just a few of the ways Texas aerospace companies, projects, and institutions are transforming our nation’s leadership in the space economy.
    “A central location among NASA’s centers and the geographical center of the United States, Houston offers the ideal location for NASA to return to its core mission of space exploration and to do so at a substantially lower operating cost than in Washington, D.C. Therefore, we strongly encourage you to stand shoulder-to-shoulder with the great servants of NASA — who are focused on recommitting America’s space agency to its roots and exploring the final frontier — by relocating NASA’s headquarters from Washington, D.C. to the Johnson Space Center.”
    Read the full text of the letter HERE.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: MEDIA ADVISORY: Sanders to Host Third Annual “Youth Chess Day” for Vermont Students

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Vermont – Bernie Sanders

    BURLINGTON, Vt., April 16 – Sen. Bernie Sanders (I-Vt.) will hold his third annual Youth Chess Day for students grades 1-12 on Saturday, April 19 at Vermont State University in Randolph. Over the first two years of this event, more than 250 young Vermonters from across the state have come out to learn the game and compete.

    “Chess is a game that I think all young people should have the opportunity to learn,” said Sanders. “It’s a game of strategy and quick thinking. Our Youth Chess Day gives young Vermonters the chance to improve their skills, make friends, and build community. I’m so glad we are holding this event for the third time. I look forward to seeing some familiar faces, seeing how players have progressed their skills over the last year, and to meeting some new students of the game.”

    The day starts with a Learn-To-Play session for students in Grades 1-8 to learn how to play and to hone their skills. Lunch will be served and is free for all attendees. In the afternoon, more experienced players in grades 1-12 can test their knowledge in a recreational tournament. Students with all levels of experience are welcome and highly encouraged to attend.

    Vermont students can register to participate by 12:00 p.m. on April 18 at https://www.sanders.senate.gov/events/. Advance registration is required.

    Details:

    What: Sen. Bernie Sanders’ Third Annual Youth Chess Day

    When: Saturday, April 19, 11:00a.m. – 4:00p.m.

    11:00 a.m. – 12:15 p.m.: Learn-To-Play Session (Grades 1-8)

    12:15 p.m. – 1:00 p.m.: Lunch (free for all attendees)

    1:00 p.m. – 4:00 p.m.: Recreational Tournament (Grades 1-12)

    Where: Judd Hall, Vermont State University – Randolph, 124 Admin Drive, Randolph Center, VT

    Participant RSVP: Vermont students, grades 1-12, can register to participate at https://www.sanders.senate.gov/events/. Students are strongly encouraged to register by 12:00 pm on April 18.

    Press RSVP: Attendance is limited to student participants, their invited guests, and members of the press. Media members must RSVP by contacting press@sanders.senate.gov.

    Details: All attendees are expected to follow Vermont Department of Health guidance, monitor symptoms, and are encouraged to take a rapid COVID-19 test prior to the event.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI Global: ‘STOP the American takeover of Canada!’ — Inspiration and humour from a London, Ont. art movement

    Source: The Conversation – Canada – By Ruth Skinner, Sessional instructor, School for Advanced Studies in the Arts & Humanities, Western University

    Facing American tariffs and taunts of becoming the 51st state, Canada can look inward for inspiration, humour and reassurance.

    On social media, many arts figures or associations have shared versions of Canadian artist Greg Curnoe’s (1936-92) Map of North America.

    As seen on accounts that include the Arts Canada Institute, the Banff Centre’s Derek Beaulieu, filmmaker Stephen Broomer, the Embassy Cultural House, the Curnoe estate and others, the map erases the United States from the continent. It re-imagines the longest border to lie between Canada and Mexico.

    Curnoe’s Map of North America, first created in 1972, is inseparable from his hometown of London, Ont. The work, artist and city offer valuable insights for navigating this new relationship with our nearest neighbour. My recent doctoral dissertation explores the cosmopolitan outlook of London’s artists and arts publishers, both historic and present. This includes their incisive commentary on Canada-U.S. relations.

    London as test market

    London is a leading test market for Canadian and American retailers. This is thanks to its moderate size, demographic composition and proximity to major cities, highways and the border.

    Test marketing involves localized experience with a concept or product before incurring large-scale expense. A landmark example for London was the development of Wellington Square, North America’s first enclosed shopping centre, in 1961.

    A 1967 cover of the London arts publication 20 Cents Magazine satirically celebrated this “test market” status. It also chided the reader: “Are you getting your share of the business, for fair?” Artists of London have long played with the local flavour of their city, and the city has a distinct arts scene.

    Distinct arts scene

    Curator and author Barry Lord profiled the city in a 1969 Art in America feature entitled “What London, Ontario Has That Everywhere Else Needs.” Lord positioned London as “younger than Montréal, livelier than Toronto, vying with Vancouver in variety and sheer quantity of output [and] in many ways the most important of the four.”

    This scene included the burgeoning London Regionalist movement — an art movement of which Curnoe was a feature — and the birth of Canadian Artists’ Representation (now Canadian Artists’ Representation/Le Front des artistes canadiens). Lord lauded London artists as “indelibly Canadian, and perhaps among the first global villagers.”

    Nationalist with wicked humour

    What would Curnoe make of the present dynamic between Canada and its closest neighbour?

    “I think he would be fired up,” says Jennie Kraehling, associate director of Michael Gibson Gallery, which represents the Curnoe estate.

    Kraehling continues: “Greg would be making a lot of statements, and I think he’d be very passionate. Just knowing his devout patriotism, his interest in the local and his pro-Canadian sentiments, I think that he would be trying to get a movement going.” Rather than anti-American, however, Kraehling describes Curnoe as a nationalist with a wicked sense of humour.

    As the late journalist Robert Fulford wrote in a 2001 column, in the early 80s Curnoe noted: “My work is about resisting as much as possible the tendency of American culture to overwhelm other cultures.”

    Social critique

    Historian Judith Rodger emphasizes Curnoe’s Map as “tongue-in-cheek” even as it levies sharp social critique. Observing the negotiations between Canada, the U.S. and Mexico that would lead to the North American Free Trade Agreement, Curnoe revisited the work through the 1980s and 1990s in lithographs and clay.

    Curnoe’s Nihilist Party of Canada (NPC), an absurdist political movement formed in 1963, advertised regularly in 20 Cents magazine. One ad encouraged the reader to “STOP the American takeover of Canada,” and to “Stop Pollution, Stop Killing, Stop Exploitation … Get off your Butt – Do Something! THINK NEGATIVELY.”

    Rodger notes that despite its strong politics, the party had “no platform and no candidates.”

    The NPC preceded the Nihilist Spasm Band, an internationally lauded, multi-member noise band that inspired a second generation of artistic collaboration. Members have included performers John Boyle, Murray Favro, John Clement, Bill Exley, Art Pratten, Aya Onishi, as well as the late Hugh McIntyre, Archie Leitch and Curnoe.

    The track “Destroy the Nations” opens their 1968 No Record album. It begins with Pratten railing: “Destroy the nations! Destroy America! England is dead! Destroy America! AHHHHHH!” The NSB’s performance is a howl against imperial servitude and corporate greed.

    In a city forever mimicking the topography and titles of an older London, and so close to the U.S., Ontario’s Londoners are aware of an implied second-fiddle position. Yet Curnoe volleyed his pro-Canadian attitude at the border, just 200 kilometres south. In one of his bicycle series paintings, Mariposa 10 Speed No. 2 (1973), the words “CLOSE THE 49th PARALLEL ETC.” are emblazoned across Curnoe’s bike’s top tube.

    Canada, U.S. markets and fine art

    Yet the situation is not entirely insular, nor is it comparable with the “Buy Canadian” encouragement seen at supermarkets, liquor stores and other retail outlets today.

    Canada’s art market is, in the words of Mackenzie Sinclair of the Art Dealers Association of Canada, “a fragile ecosystem.” Canada’s GDP (including its art) is deeply integrated with the U.S.: many Canadian artists have American dealers, show in American galleries and use American-made materials.

    With ongoing threats of American tariffs and export restrictions, Canadian collectors and galleries are abstaining from American art fairs and seeking stronger connections with European markets. Canada’s only international art fair, Art Toronto, is fostering a special new partnership with Mexican galleries, enacting a version of Curnoe’s Map of North America in real time.

    Curation about nationalist rhetoric

    Curnoe’s nationalist perspective is an important one right now. However, nationalism can quickly devolve into dangerous and exclusivist rhetoric.

    Until recently, London-based artist Angie Quick was in a group exhibition curated by Andil Gosine for Washington’s Art Museum of the Americas. The show was abruptly cancelled. Speaking with the Globe and Mail, Gosine speculated this was due to due to the museum pre-emptively bending to the new political order in D.C. in light of the exhibition’s queer perspectives.

    For Quick, this cancellation signals a transnational warning. She notes that The Museum of the Americas is an arm of the Organization of the American States, a regional organization that brings together North and South American governments including Canada, the U.S. and Mexico.

    The call to cancel, she says, far exceeds a phenomena happening only in the U.S.:

    “It is a reminder of what role funding has in liberation politics when it comes to the arts. And as we [Canadians] like to other ourselves from the U.S. it’s just as important to remember we are just as much at risk to nationalism dictating values in the arts.”

    Ruth Skinner has received funding from The Social Sciences and Humanities Research Council of Canada (SSHRC) and the London Arts Council (LAC).

    – ref. ‘STOP the American takeover of Canada!’ — Inspiration and humour from a London, Ont. art movement – https://theconversation.com/stop-the-american-takeover-of-canada-inspiration-and-humour-from-a-london-ont-art-movement-252980

    MIL OSI – Global Reports –