Category: Universities

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Local and Mainland young singers to show talents at “POP KONG” concert (with photos)

    Source: Hong Kong Government special administrative region

    Local and Mainland young singers to show talents at “POP KONG” concert (with photos)
    Local and Mainland young singers to show talents at “POP KONG” concert (with photos)
    ******************************************************************************************

          The 4th Guangdong-Hong Kong-Macao Greater Bay Area Culture and Arts Festival is presenting the “POP KONG” concert on October 31 and November 1 (Thursday and Friday) to showcase the talents and creativity of young artists from both Hong Kong and the Mainland, injecting fresh impetus into the music scenes of the region.      The concert is presented by the Leisure and Cultural Services Department and AC Orange Co Ltd. Emerging singer-songwriters Monkey Sit, Zino Chan and a Bu from Hong Kong, along with Haibhue and Cantopop band Mover from the Mainland, will share the stage to perform their original compositions and popular hits. Celebrated singer-songwriter Phil Lam will also appear as a special guest, fully showing the charm of original Chinese pop music.      The three up-and-coming artists mentioned above were all participants of the “My Main Stage” music production pilot programme founded by veteran music producer Chiu Tsang-hei. Their works have been released on major streaming platforms. Monkey, also an illustrator, started off as a street performer before taking the stage at Freespace Happening, Lau Bak Livehouse, Lost Star, Hong Kong Museum of Art, Hong Kong Pop Culture Festival, and more. Zino executive-produced radio programme “Lemonaid” in 2018, and reinvented Sally Yeh’s famous tune “Friends or Lovers” for her performance at Hunan Satellite TV’s “Endless Melody” programme in 2022. Last but not least, a Bu composed the theme song for his graduation project at the Hong Kong Baptist University’s Academy of Film in 2022, and went on to compose competition background music for the Hong Kong Wushu Team.      Haibhue, a singer-songwriter from the Mainland, is skilled at blending nursery rhymes with modern music. Her music evokes tales of olden times, always offering a sense of calm. Mover, a six-member original band, chiefly creates music in Cantonese. Their music spans a wide spectrum from pop rock and shoegaze to alternative rock and pop punk. By the end of 2024, the band will embark on their first nationwide tour.      “POP KONG” will be held at 8pm on October 31 and November 1 at the Hong Kong Cultural Centre Studio Theatre. Tickets priced at $200 and $300 are now available at URBTIX (www.urbtix.hk). For telephone bookings, please call 3166 1288; patrons may also use the mobile ticketing app “URBTIX”. Discount schemes are available for programmes under the 4th Guangdong-Hong Kong-Macao Greater Bay Area Culture and Arts Festival (namely “ChoreoMusica Soiree”, “POP KONG”, Cantonese Opera Film “The Legend of the White Snake”, 2024 Zhuhai-Hong Kong-Macao Choral Concert, “Songs Echo My Voice” and Dance Drama “Wing Chun” Special Edition by Shenzhen Opera and Dance Theatre), including group booking discount and package booking discount. For programme enquiries and concessionary schemes, please call 2734 2960 or visit gbacxlo.gov.hk/en/programmes/pop-kong. “POP KONG” is also a celebratory programme of the 35th anniversary of the Hong Kong Cultural Centre.      Hong Kong is the host city of the Guangdong-Hong Kong-Macao Greater Bay Area Culture and Arts Festival for the first time this year. It organises and co-ordinates over 260 performances and exchange activities to be held across the “9+2” cities of the Greater Bay Area. The festival aims to showcase the vibrant and diverse cultural richness of the region and foster cultural exchange and co-operation among the cities. For more details, please visit http://www.gbacxlo.gov.hk.

     
    Ends/Friday, October 4, 2024Issued at HKT 14:30

    NNNN

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News

  • MIL-OSI Russia: Polytechnic University held radiation protection exercises

    MILES AXLE Translation. Region: Russian Federation –

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

    The Polytechnic University held a staff training exercise entitled “Conducting civil defense on the territory of the Russian Federation in conditions of a radiation situation.”

    The exercises were attended by the Vice-Rector for Security of SPbPU – Chairman of the Evacuation Commission Alexey Sokolov, employees of the Civil Security Department, heads of non-staff formations to ensure the implementation of civil defense measures and other responsible employees.

    The event was opened by Vladimir Glukhov, Chairman of the Commission for the Prevention and Elimination of Emergencies and Fire Safety of SPbPU. He noted that the exercises are being held in accordance with the letter of the Ministry of Science and Higher Education of the Russian Federation “On conducting a staff training exercise on civil defense.” Vladimir Viktorovich named the objectives of the exercise: to ensure decision-making on the protection of workers, their family members, material and cultural values, archival documents in the conditions of a radiation situation; to check the readiness of civil defense forces and means; to clarify civil defense plans in the conditions of a radiation situation.

    In conclusion of his speech, Vladimir Glukhov congratulated the meeting participants on Russian Civil Defense Day, which is celebrated on October 4.

    The head of the SPbPU civil defense department, Aleksandr Palagin, explained that the training includes practicing the implementation of the university civil defense plan approved by the Ministry of Education and Science and the head of the SPbPU civil defense department, Andrey Rudskoy, as well as implementing measures to protect the population, material and cultural values, and archival documents in a radiation environment. The training is being held with the participation of the deputy head of the Kalininsky District Department of the Main Directorate of the Ministry of Emergency Situations of Russia for the city of St. Petersburg, Colonel of the Internal Service Konstantin Groshev and the head of the department of supervision and preventive work of the Kalininsky District Department of the Main Directorate of the Ministry of Emergency Situations of Russia for the city of St. Petersburg, Major of the Internal Service Anastasia Oblizina.

    Leading engineer of the civil protection department of SPbPU Nikolay Peganov said that the causes of the radiation situation could be a nuclear strike or an accident at the Leningrad Nuclear Power Plant, which would lead to possible irradiation of people and contamination of the area with radioactive substances. In the event of an accident at the Leningrad Nuclear Power Plant, the zone of possible radioactive contamination would be 100 km, and the whole of St. Petersburg would be included in it. During the first 24 hours, unprotected people could receive a dose higher than the permissible norm. The work of organizations does not stop during this time, but measures are taken to protect the population.

    The main danger is internal radiation from radioactive iodine, which can enter the body simply by inhaling air. You can protect yourself by taking cover in the nearest shelter, fallout shelter, or in the subway. If there are none, then in the room where the person is, you need to seal all the windows and doors, if possible, turn on all sources of information and monitor the development of the situation. It is also necessary to carry out iodine prophylaxis. Currently, the university has purchased 1,300 individual anti-radiation civil protection systems for this purpose. There are also 3,000 respirators and 1,000 gas masks.

    Alexander Palagin provided information about the types of civil defense protective structures (ZSGO) and how they differ. There are three types: a simple shelter, an anti-radiation shelter, and a shelter that protects against nuclear, chemical, and biological weapons. There are 12 shelters at the Polytechnic University: eight in the Kalininsky District (one in the GZ, four in the second professorial building, three in the 9th), and four in the Vyborgsky District (in the Lesnaya Student City). In order to maintain their working condition, four ZSGO maintenance units have been formed.

    Basements can also be used to accommodate staff and students.

    Leading engineer of the civil defense department Andrey Kruglov spoke about what the heads of non-staff civil defense formations should do in the conditions of a radiation situation.

    Vice-Rector for Security Alexey Sokolov summed up the results of the staff training and gave orders to prepare a report for the Ministry of Education and Science.

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

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

    https://vvv.spbstu.ru/media/nevs/student_life/trainings on-protection-from-radiation were held at the Polytechnic University/

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

    MIL OSI Russia News

  • MIL-OSI Russia: We invite you to the advanced track of the Acceleration program “Healthy Life Technologies 2.0”

    MILES AXLE Translation. Region: Russian Federation –

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

    The State University of Management and LAB Business Studio LLC are opening enrollment for the advanced track of the Healthy Life Technologies 2.0 Acceleration Program.

    Both students and graduates of Russian universities who completed their bachelor’s, specialist’s, master’s or postgraduate studies no earlier than 2022 are invited to participate.

    The advanced track program will have 3 key areas:

    Business model, competencies and pitch Market, data and analytics Thinking and readiness for responsibility

    Over the course of 6 weeks, participants will be able to check the completeness of the team and distribute areas of responsibility, focus the product on market needs, confirm the presence of a large market for the product, choose a suitable investment strategy, prepare a professional pitch deck and data room.

    Participation in the program is free. The number of places is limited.

    The accelerator will be held online, the in-person final will take place at the Boiling Point of the State University of Management on December 7, 2014.

    Applications are accepted until October 9 via the link. The decision on the team composition will be made on October 14, and the accelerator is scheduled to start on October 21, 2024.

    Additional information can be found on the official website of the project.

    The acceleration program is being implemented with the financial support of the ANO “National Technology Initiative Platform”.

    Subscribe to the TG channel “Our GUU” Date of publication: 10/4/2024

    Технологии здоровой жизни 2.0»….” data-yashareImage=”https://guu.ru/wp-content/uploads/yaSE_A58TI.jpg” data-yashareLink=”https://guu.ru/%d0%bf%d1%80%d0%b8%d0%b3%d0%bb%d0%b0%d1%88%d0%b0%d0%b5%d0%bc-%d0%bd%d0%b0-%d0%bf%d1%80%d0%be%d0%b4%d0%b2%d0%b8%d0%bd%d1%83%d1%82%d1%8b%d0%b9-%d1%82%d1%80%d0%b5%d0%ba-%d0%b0%d0%ba%d1%81%d0%b5%d0%bb/”>

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

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

    We invite you to the advanced track of the Acceleration program “Healthy Life Technologies 2.0”

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

    MIL OSI Russia News

  • MIL-OSI Russia: HSE to Expand Cooperation with Agency for Strategic Initiatives to Develop Advanced Solutions

    MILES AXLE Translation. Region: Russian Federation –

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

    The Higher School of Economics hosted the Day of Acquaintance between the University and the Agency for Strategic Initiatives (ASI). The parties presented their research and analytical projects and outlined areas for joint work. The task of scientists and experts is to increase efficiency and accelerate the implementation of breakthrough scientific developments in a wide range of areas – from economic forecasts to neuroprosthetics.

    First Vice-Rector, Director Institute for Statistical Studies and Economics of Knowledge (ISSEK) of the National Research University Higher School of Economics Leonid Gokhberg, opening the meeting, noted that the focus of the cooperation between the university and ASI is neurotechnology, development of regions and cities, artificial intelligence, digital transformation, etc. The university has strong teams of scientists in many disciplines, modern databases on various aspects of the country’s socio-economic development have been formed, Leonid Gokhberg emphasized. HSE teachers and research staff annually publish more than 3 thousand articles in leading world journals, including 40% of all Russian reports on artificial intelligence at international A* conferences, and also carry out more than 600 research projects.

    HSE is one of the most important partner universities for the Agency for Strategic Initiatives, which has the potential to develop breakthrough solutions, which is extremely important for ASI, said Georgy Belozerov, Deputy Director General of ASI. “We are not a financial institution, we do not allocate money, but we help overcome administrative barriers that can hinder the emergence and implementation of new initiatives,” he said. Georgy Belozerov believes that an important task of ASI is to identify and scale up successful regional practices and transfer advanced experience to other territories.

    During the meeting, representatives of ASI and HSE presented promising projects. Thus, Director of the Center for Creative Economy Development of the Agency for Strategic Initiatives Ekaterina Cherkes-zade believes that the creative economy can become one of the key drivers of the country’s development. “We are striving to build a new block of the economy so that artists in Russia are not hungry, so that creative industries influence the social sphere and related industries,” she said. Among the possible joint areas of work, Ekaterina Cherkes-zade highlighted strategies and forecasts for the development of creative industries until 2030 and 2036 and the creation of regulations aimed at stimulating the creative economy.

    Director of the ASI National Ratings Center Mikhail Utkin noted: “The main objective of our ratings is not to rank, but to offer the best solutions.” Currently, the center, in cooperation with the HSE, is improving methods in accordance with new challenges, including refining indicators and algorithms for their calculation. A promising task for joint efforts is the creation of an evidence-based information base.

    HSE representatives spoke about fundamental and applied projects. Director of the HSE ISSEK Center for Strategic Forecasting Mikhail Goland reported on the preparation of the report “Scenarios for the Development of the Russian Economy in the Context of Geopolitical Turbulence” dedicated to the analysis of possible scenarios for the development of key areas of the economy and social sphere for the period up to 2030-2036. The report is updated annually, it is registered as know-how, and access to it is provided under a license. A number of large state and private companies have already acquired the corresponding licenses. Along with the report, HSE specialists regularly prepare accompanying materials, including reviews of Russian and foreign forecasts, unique databases, specialized consensus forecasts based on a survey of more than 500 leading Russian experts, and quarterly reviews of the Russian economy and social sphere in 14 key areas. Access to all of this analytics is provided to businesses on a commercial basis.

    HSE Director for Regional Cooperation Natalia Ryazantseva recalled that HSE projects are being implemented in 62 regions of Russia. The university has implemented 250 urban and regional development projects, created integrated systems for monitoring and forecasting key indicators of the socio-economic development of regions and cities. They objectively reflect the development of entrepreneurship and human potential, demographic processes and the situation on the labor market. Particular attention was paid to projects for the integrated development of territories. Striking examples of the university’s developments were the renovation projects of Norilsk and the expansion of its green and park areas, as well as the creation of a health quarter on the basis of the National Center of Medicine in Yakutsk.

    Deputy Director of the HSE ISSEK Pavel Rudnik added: “Machine learning and big data analysis methods play an increasing role in our research on regional development. Thus, to assess a wide range of socio-economic development indicators in an automated mode, we actively use the ISSEK system for intelligent analysis of large volumes of dataiFORA“.

    Director Center “Russian Cluster Observatory” ISSEK HSE Evgeny Kutsenko reported that his team has been systematically studying innovations in regions and cities since 2012. Thus, in September of this year, the third issue was presented at the forum “Cloud Cities. Forum on the Future of BRICS Cities”Innovative attractiveness ranking of world cities — HSE Global Cities Innovation Index 2024, covering more than 1,000 agglomerations in 144 countries. By collecting data on 90 different indicators, it was possible to fully cover three areas: technological development, creative industries and the quality of the urban environment. Among the longest-running studies of the center, he also named the Rating of Innovative Development of Subjects of the Russian Federation, the 9th issue of which was published in August of this year. Among the landmark works, the Atlas of Economic Specialization of Russian Regions, the Rating of Creative Regions of Russia, reports on creative specializations of Russian cities, import dependence of Russian subjects and the potential for their cooperation with the EAEU countries in the industrial sphere, as well as monitoring of entrepreneurial activity were noted.

    Deputy Director Institute “Development Center” HSE University Sergey Smirnov reported that the institute is completing the development of a database of regional forecast indicators up to 2030, comparable with the overall forecast for Russia. The nowcasting method is used for current forecasts, and longer-term forecasts are developed based on the production function.

    Director Geodata Center Faculty of Geography and Geoinformation Technologies, National Research University Higher School of Economics Tatyana Aniskina spoke about the rating of regions by the level of climate risks, which assesses the risks and probability of natural disasters. Another major area was the assessment and support of climate projects aimed at increasing carbon absorption through afforestation.

    Director of the National Research University Higher School of Economics scientific research and development Igor Sokolov spoke about neurocognitive research, including the development of clinical neurotechnologies for preserving cognitive functions. Currently, the HSE neurocluster has an international team of researchers and unique scientific equipment, including an automated system of non-invasive brain stimulation with the ability to synchronously record brain biocurrents and eye movement. A system of evidence of the influence of the urban environment on the physical and mental health of residents is being developed, which will make it possible to develop indices of the psychological well-being of the city. HSE scientists have created a neuroorthosis based on the principles of neurofeedback to restore motor functions of the upper limb in children with congenital or traumatic motor disorders, allowing for faster return of arm and hand functions. These developments can be extended to adults. According to Igor Sokolov, it is necessary to develop proposals in cooperation with the ASI to change the legal regulation of experimental medicine, which, on the one hand, will make it possible to expand the clinical base for the development of technologies, and on the other, will allow people in need of the latest treatment methods to receive modern medical care. “Everything is done in accordance with the HSE motto ‘Not for school, but for life’,” he is confident.

    At the end of the meeting, Georgy Belozerov emphasized that many of HSE’s developments could become the basis for creating specific solutions, and proposed supplementing the cooperation plans and intensifying coordination in areas where HSE and ASI are conducting projects on similar topics. “The list of areas of our activity is not limited to the topics discussed today; during the discussion, I sketched out several dozen ideas. We have great potential for cooperation, and together with the agency team, we will continue to develop initiatives in the format of bilateral cooperation,” Leonid Gokhberg concluded.

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

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

    http://vvv.hse.ru/nevs/expertise/969586992.html

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

    MIL OSI Russia News

  • MIL-OSI Russia: Slavic Horizon: Polytechnic and KRSU Joined Forces

    MILES AXLE Translation. Region: Russian Federation –

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

    On September 26, the Polytechnic University hosted the second summit of Slavic universities “Slavic Horizon – 2024”, where SPbPU and KRSU signed agreements on nine network educational programs in the following areas: infocommunication technologies and communication systems, electronics and nanoelectronics, instrumentation, electric power engineering, mechanics, architectural environment design, software engineering, construction, technosphere safety.

    This year, 30 KRSU students have already started a long-term internship under this agreement. The guys shared their impressions of studying at the Polytechnic.

    Daniel Kutmanov, a student at the Institute of Computer Science and Cybersecurity majoring in software engineering, is a volunteer and organizer of a youth initiative dedicated to helping children with disabilities.

    We had events where children played basketball and volleyball, which helped them escape from everyday life through sports. When selecting students for the Polytechnic, the average score and social achievements were taken into account. When I arrived in St. Petersburg, I was pleasantly surprised. It is a very beautiful city, I like it here. I was also impressed by the reputation of the Polytechnic, I am glad to be in one of the best international universities in Russia, – said Daniel Kutmanov.

    Daniel’s classmate Anatoly Toropov has visited St. Petersburg several times as a tourist, and is now doing an internship at a leading engineering university in Russia.

    All teachers have a unique style. Some use interactive methods, involving students in discussions and group projects, which helps to deepen the understanding of the topic. Others prefer a traditional approach, focusing on lectures and theoretical aspects. Their passion for the subject and desire to inspire students create an atmosphere of trust and openness, where we can freely share our thoughts and ask questions, – Anatoly noted.

    Baigeldi Musaev studies at the Institute of Civil Engineering of St. Petersburg Polytechnic University.

    At first, studying was intense because our knowledge differs from the level of training of polytechnics. The study programs in St. Petersburg begin with what we study only by the end of the second year. But over time, we began to adapt and build a schedule so as to catch up with our classmates. St. Petersburg is an amazing city, and our new friends give us excursions. Now I feel part of this community and am glad to have the opportunity to study here, – shared Baigeldi.

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

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

    http://www.spbstu.ru/media/nevs/international_activize/Slavic-horizon-polytech-and-krsu-joined-efforts/

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

    MIL OSI Russia News

  • MIL-OSI Europe: From White Supremacy to the Global South: Radical Right Is Not a National Phenomena

    Source: Universities – Science Po in English

    How does the radical right discourse fit with the growing anti-imperialism & anti-western sentiment in Africa?

    This is also a really interesting and important question. To many, the very idea that the radical Right has an appeal or alliances in Africa and other parts of the Global South is counter-intuitive. This perspective risks badly underestimating the influence and reach of the radical Right. In The World of the Right, we explain this at length in the final chapter. The key themes are nativism or ethno-nationalism, anti-universalism, and recognition.

    While the radical Right is often associated with white supremacy – and there is no doubt that many of its followers can be classified as such – it is nevertheless critical to recognise that the ideology of the contemporary radical Right is profoundly anti-universalist. Briefly put, they argue that liberalism has destroyed the distinctiveness of cultures and that this is the great failure, or tragedy, of liberalism, including its drive to spread human rights and impose democracy or regime change around the word.

    For the contemporary radical Right, cultures or civilisations are incommensurably different, but none have a claim to universal or global superiority. In this sense, they are nativist or ethno-nationalist, arguing that all cultures have a right to their difference (providing, of course, that difference is elsewhere). It is this anti-universalism and anti-imperialism that allow the radical Right to make common cause with many individuals, activists, groups, and governments in Africa and other parts of the Global South that also feel dominated or oppressed by the demands of global liberalism.

    So we see, for example, African cultural nativists making common cause with their analogical global allies – a good example is the relationship between the radical pan-Africanist Kemi Seba, the éminence grise of the French Nouvelle Droite Alain de Benoit, and the Russian radical Right ideologue Alexander Dugin. In the book we explore this through the concept of “recognition” and show how transversal alliances join together very diverse forces from the radical Right, religious organisations, African politicians, and activists around the notion of the “natural family” in opposition to the promotion of liberal rights such as abortion and LGBTQ+.

    There is much, much more to be said about this topic, but it is important to recognise that the anti-universalism and ethno-nationalism of the radical Right allows for and facilitate often surprising alliances with anti-imperialist activists and agendas in the global South.

    MIL OSI Europe News

  • MIL-OSI Russia: Students of the State University of Management were told about the nuances of implementing state and municipal programs

    MILES AXLE Translation. Region: Russian Federation –

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

    On October 1, 2024, a master class was held at the State University of Management with Professor, Deputy Governor of the Oryol Region, Head of the Representative Office of the Oryol Region to the Government of the Russian Federation Alexander Biryukov on the topic “State and Municipal Projects and Programs”.

    The event was held as part of a series of open lectures with invited speakers, organized by the Department of Project Management. The participants of the meeting were 2nd-year students of the Master’s program “Project and Program Management”.

    During the master class, Alexander Biryukov spoke about the experience of using various methods of project and program management in the development of the Oryol region, about the specifics of planning and change management in the implementation of state and municipal programs.

    The speaker provided a comparative analysis of the approach to implementing projects in the Belgorod, Kaluga and Oryol regions, and examined examples of implementing a portfolio of PPP projects in the field of agriculture.

    At the end of the event, a discussion with the students took place, during which Alexander Petrovich spoke about the specifics of interaction with various stakeholder groups, with state and federal authorities, and also answered questions about the implementation and planning of projects in an unstable environment using the example of the Belgorod Region.

    Subscribe to the TG channel “Our GUU” Date of publication: 10/4/2024

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

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

    Students of the State University of Management were told about the nuances of implementing state and municipal programs

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

    MIL OSI Russia News

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: expert reaction to govt pledge of £21.7bn for carbon capture projects

    Source: United Kingdom – Executive Government & Departments

    Scientists comment on a government pledge of £21.7bn for carbon capture projects. 

    Prof Stuart Haszeldine, Professor of Carbon Capture and Storage at the University of Edinburgh, said:   

    “This is fourth time lucky for CCS in the UK. After 3 false starts on projects with single sources to capture CO2, a change of philosophy has produced multiple industrial CO2 capture projects, mutually supporting pipelines feeding into secure geological stores. This ambitious and complex pathway is starting to convert the world’s first nation to industrialise coal use into the world’s first nation to decarbonise industry.

    “The UK’s long CCS design journey started in 2005 with an unexpected offer from BP – not accepted by Government, leading to a competition to retrofit coal power electricity not awarded in 2011, then last minute cancellation in 2016 of funding for gas powered capture, and from 2018 a pivot to industrial projects mutually supporting shared pipelines and stores.

    “CCS has operated successfully and safely in the Norwegian North Sea since 2006. But the debate between Perfect or Pragmatic on CCS still exercises those commentators and campaigners who prefer to completely escape from fossil fuels. However, hundreds of CO2 injections into geological storage worldwide have been competed with no leakage. But providing energy from adequate supplies of renewable electricity, and electrolysis to make green hydrogen, will not be installed for several decades. CCS provides achievable steps to rapidly decrease emissions at industrial scale, starting a transition into a lower carbon future. This is a revolutionary leap in energy systems.

    “Perception of price remains the biggest blockage to routine installation of CCS. But the cost of government subsidy for the first projects will be spread between across the national energy system – equivalent to a fraction of penny each kilowatt hour.  At full decarbonisation, CCS will cost around 15 pence per litre of petrol – much less than annual market price variations, and affordable.

    “Anticipating successful CCS operating projects, the UK government now needs to plan future CCS projects to operate without government grant support. Existing policies are mis-directed to pay for permissions to emit. What is needed for the future is a payment reward for storage of CO2. That can be achieved by an extended obligation on oil company suppliers of fossil carbon to capture and store CO2 emissions arising from their products. That principle was legally established for development of new oilfields in the UK Supreme Court ‘Finch’ case in June 2024.”

    Declared interests

    Stuart Haszeldine is not funded by hydrocarbon companies or CCS developers supported by government

    MIL OSI United Kingdom

  • MIL-Evening Report: There’s a renewed push to scrap junior rates of pay for young adults. Do we need to rethink what’s fair?

    Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Kerry Brown, Professor of Employment and Industry, School of Business and Law, Edith Cowan University

    NT_Studio/Shutterstock

    Should young people be paid less than their older counterparts, even if they’re working the same job? Whether you think it’s fair or not, it’s been standard practice in many industries for a long time.

    The argument is that young people are not fully “work-ready” and require more intensive employer support to develop the right skills for their job.

    But change could be on the horizon. Major unions and some politicians are pushing for reform – arguing “youth wages” should be scrapped entirely for adults.

    Why? They say the need to be fairly paid for equal work effort, as well as economic considerations such as the high cost of living and ongoing housing crisis, mean paying young adults less based on their age is out of step with modern Australia.

    So is there a problem with our current system, and if so, how might we go about fixing it?

    What are youth wages?

    In Australia, a youth wage or junior pay rate is paid as an increasing percentage of an award’s corresponding full adult wage until an employee reaches the age of 21.

    This isn’t the case in every industry – some awards require all adults to be paid the same minimum rates.

    But for those not covered by a specific award, as well as those working in industries including those covered by the General Retail Industry Award, Fast Food Industry Award and Pharmacy Industry Award, employees younger than 21 are not paid the full rate.

    Why pay less?

    Conventionally, junior rates have been thought of as a “training wage”. Younger people are typically less experienced, so as they gain more skills on the job over time, they are paid a higher hourly rate.

    But there are a few key problems with this approach, which may not be relevant given many employers’ expectations for their workers to start “job-ready” and a lack of consistency in the training they provide.

    Training up and developing skills is an important part of building any career. But it isn’t always provided by their employers.

    Many young adults undergo training prior to starting work and at their own expense.
    Best smile studio/Shutterstock

    Many young workers train themselves in job-related technical education and short courses, often at their own expense and prior to starting work.

    Employers reap the benefit of this pre-employment training and so a “wage discount” for younger workers may be irrelevant in this instance.

    None of this is to say employers aren’t offering something important when they take on young employees.

    Younger workers coming into employment relatively early have access to more than just a paid job, but also become part of a team, with responsibilities and job requirements that support “bigger-picture” life skills.

    Those who employ them may be contributing to their broader social and cultural engagement, something that could be considered part of a more inclusive training package. Whether that justifies a significant wage discount is less clear.




    Read more:
    Why real wages in Australia have fallen while they’ve risen in most other OECD countries


    Calls for a rethink

    There are growing calls for a rethink on the way we compensate young people for their efforts.

    An application by the Shop Distributive and Allied Employees’ Association – the union for retail, fast food and warehousing workers – seeks to remove junior rates for adult employees on three key awards. This action will be heard by the Fair Work Commission next year.

    Sally McManus, Secretary of the Australian Council of Trade Unions, said the peak union body will lobby the government to legislate such changes if this application fails. The Greens have added their support.

    That doesn’t have to mean abolishing youth wages altogether. But 21 years of age is a high threshold, especially given we get the right to major adult responsibilities such as voting and driving by 18.

    A transition strategy could consider gradually lowering this threshold, or increasing the wage percentages over time.

    Lessons from New Zealand

    We wouldn’t be the first to make such a bold change if we did.

    Our geographically and culturally close neighbour, New Zealand, has already removed the “youth wage” – replacing it with a “first job” rate and a training wage set at 80% of the full award rate in 2008.

    A common argument against abolishing youth wages – and increasing the minimum wage in general – is that it will stop businesses hiring young people and thus increase unemployment.

    But a 2021 study that examined the effects of New Zealand’s experience with increasing minimum wages – including this change – found little discernible difference in employment outcomes for young workers.

    The authors did note, however, that New Zealand’s economic downturn post-2008 had a marked effect on the employment of young workers more generally.

    New Zealand has already taken major steps in reforming junior pay rates.
    Stephan Roeger/Shutterstock

    What’s fair?

    It’s easy to see how we arrived at the case for paying younger adults less. But younger workers should not bear the burden of intergenerational inequity by “losing out” on wages in the early part of their working life.

    The debate we see now echoes the discussions about equal pay for equal work value run in the 1960s and ‘70s in relation to women’s unequal pay.

    We were warned that paying women the same as men would cause huge economic dislocation. Such a catastrophe simply did not come to pass.

    Kerry Brown is a member of the National Tertiary Education Union.

    ref. There’s a renewed push to scrap junior rates of pay for young adults. Do we need to rethink what’s fair? – https://theconversation.com/theres-a-renewed-push-to-scrap-junior-rates-of-pay-for-young-adults-do-we-need-to-rethink-whats-fair-240548

    MIL OSI AnalysisEveningReport.nz

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: InnoCarnival 2024 to run from October 26 to November 3 (with photos)

    Source: Hong Kong Government special administrative region

    InnoCarnival 2024 to run from October 26 to November 3 (with photos)
    InnoCarnival 2024 to run from October 26 to November 3 (with photos)
    ********************************************************************

         Organised by the Innovation and Technology Commission (ITC), the InnoCarnival 2024 (IC 2024) will be held from October 26 to November 3 at the Hong Kong Science Park with the theme of “Let’s Sail with Innovation and Technology”. The event is receiving support from over 75 programme partners, including local universities, research and development centres, government departments and other organisations. Through an array of interesting activities, it aims to promote innovation and technology (I&T) culture. IC 2024 is also one of the Special 75 events and Highlight Events of the 75th anniversary of the founding of the People’s Republic of China.           Speaking at the media preview for IC 2024 today (October 4), the Commissioner for Innovation and Technology, Mr Ivan Lee, said that the Commission has been committed to driving the I&T development of Hong Kong and raising the awareness of I&T culture in the community. He believed that the Carnival was an annual flagship event which could foster popularity of science culture, nurture the young generation’s interest in I&T, and attract more I&T talent in the long run.            The media preview exhibited the research and development (R&D) projects of several participating teams. Project team representatives presented their inspirational ideas, R&D processes, features and functions, and project applications. These projects include the “Flexible Exoskeleton for Load Transportation”, developed by the Chinese University of Hong Kong which provides personalised assistance to the wearer when moving heavy objects to reduce back strain and muscle activity, minimising the risk of lower back pain while maximising comfort and safety; as well as the “Dye Removal from Denim Textile Wastewater by a Combinative Adsorption and Regeneration System” developed by the Hong Kong Research Institute of Textiles and Apparel (HKRITA), which is an environmental-friendly and cost-effective indigo dye treatment method using alumina-based adsorbents as efficient dye-adsorbent materials to remove indigo dye from textile wastewater.           In addition, representatives of Carmel Divine Grace Foundation Secondary School, introduced their anti-phone scam invention for seniors, “ElderDefender”. Equipped with speech recognition technology, the device would make use of artificial intelligence and big data technology to scan phone message to reduce phone scams by issuing a visual alert. This invention earned awards in the Hong Kong Student Science Competition organised by the Hong Kong Federation of Youth Groups, as well as the Second City I&T Grand Challenge organised by the ITC together with the Hong Kong Science and Technology Parks Corporation.           Exhibition booths will be set up at the Hong Kong Science Park to showcase local I&T achievements, some of them with interactive games. Moreover, a diverse line-up of about 150 workshops and webinars across various subjects including artificial intelligence and energy conservation will be available during the carnival.            Prototypes of some of the winning I&T solutions of the Second City I&T Grand Challenge will also be displayed for trial in the IC 2024. To promote an I&T culture and enhance the application of I&T in the community, the second City I&T Grand Challenge was launched in March this year under the theme of “Hong Kong’s Got I&T”. It invited submissions from different sectors of the community to develop I&T solutions focusing on two subjects, namely “I&T for Nature (Yama)” (improving the operation and management of country parks and campsites, and enhancing hikers’ experiences in nature) and “I&T for Community (Community Wellness)” (enhancing support for carers). After rounds of assessment and pitching, over 50 awards under the four categories, which were the Primary School Group, the Secondary School Group, the University/Tertiary Institute Group and the Open Group, were presented at the Grand Pitch in August this year.           All IC 2024 activities are free of charge. Some of the activities require preregistration. Details are available at the thematic webpage (innocarnival.hk). Members of the public are most welcome to join.

     
    Ends/Friday, October 4, 2024Issued at HKT 17:35

    NNNN

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News

  • MIL-OSI Russia: Nikita Blagoy: “Exchange education is a colossal development and skills”

    MILES AXLE Translation. Region: Russian Federation –

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

    Nikita Blagoy, a postgraduate student at the Institute of Industrial Management, Economics and Trade, and an assistant at the Higher School of Engineering and Economics, received a scholarship from the President of the Russian Federation for students and postgraduates studying abroad. In early September, Nikita went to China. Before leaving, he told us about his academic path at the Polytechnic University, and how his ideas about life and science changed. And after a while, he contacted us to share his first impressions of his internship at the Dalian University of Technology.

    Interview with a graduate student Read in our traditional section “Person”.

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

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

    http://www.spbstu.ru/media/nevs/polytech-media/nikita-blagoy-exchange-training-is-colossal-development-and-skills/

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

    MIL OSI Russia News

  • MIL-OSI Russia: 13 Polytechnicians Among the World’s Most Cited Scientists

    MILES AXLE Translation. Region: Russian Federation –

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

    Elsevier has published updated lists of the most cited scientists in the world over the past year and throughout my entire scientific career.

    Stanford University (USA) annually collects and analyzes information from the international scientometric database Scopus about the most authoritative scientists. When compiling the ratings, both qualitative and quantitative citation metrics are taken into account. The obtained information is posted on the Elsevier website. According to the company, the scientists presented in the lists make up 2% of the most influential scientific specialists. Among them are 13 SPbPU scientists.

    Nine of the university’s researchers were included in both rankings at once: the most cited authors at the end of 2023 and for their entire research career. The greatest successes were achieved by:

    Nikolay Vatin is the director of the Scientific and Technological Complex “Digital Engineering in Civil Engineering”, chief researcher at the Laboratory of Protected and Modular Structures, Professor at the Higher School of Advanced Digital Technologies NIS “Digital Engineering”, Doctor of Technical Sciences;
    Vladimir Mostepanenko is the chief researcher at the Scientific Laboratory “Micro- and Nanoelectronic Systems on a Chip” at the NIS “Digital Engineering”, Doctor of Physical and Mathematical Sciences;
    Vadim Davydov is a leading engineer at the Center for New Materials of the Research and Modeling of Materials Research Center of the Institute of Mechanical Engineering, Materials and Transport, Doctor of Physical and Mathematical Sciences;
    Galina Klimchitskaya is the chief researcher at the Scientific Laboratory “Micro- and Nanoelectronic Systems on a Crystal” at the NIS “Digital Engineering”, Doctor of Physical and Mathematical Sciences;
    Anatoly Popovich – Director of the Institute of Mechanical Engineering, Materials and Transport, Professor of the Research Center “Structural and Functional Materials” of the Institute of Mechanical Engineering and Technology, Chief Researcher of the Laboratory “Synthesis of New Materials and Structures” of the Advanced Engineering School “Digital Engineering”, Doctor of Technical Sciences;
    Lev Utkin is a professor at the Higher School of Artificial Intelligence Technologies at the Institute of Computer Science and Cybersecurity; Leading Researcher at the Research Laboratory “Supercomputer Technologies and Machine Learning” NIS “Digital Engineering”, Doctor of Technical Sciences;
    Anton-Jiri Krivtsov – Director of the Higher School of Theoretical Mechanics and Mathematical Physics of the Institute of Physics and Mechanics, Corresponding Member of the Russian Academy of Sciences, Doctor of Physical and Mathematical Sciences;
    Mikhail Shur is a leading researcher at the Laboratory of Computational Hydro-Aeroacoustics and Turbulence at the Scientific and Technical Complex “Mathematical Modeling and Intelligent Control Systems” of the NIS “Digital Engineering”, Candidate of Physical and Mathematical Sciences.
    Andrey Travin is a senior researcher at the laboratory “Computational hydroaeroacoustics and turbulence” of the Scientific and Technical Complex “Mathematical modeling and intelligent control systems” of the NIS “Digital Engineering”, Candidate of Physical and Mathematical Sciences.

    In addition, two Polytechnic University researchers are included in the list of the most cited researchers for the past year. The 2023 ranking includes Mikhail Strelets, head of the Computational Hydroaeroacoustics and Turbulence Laboratory at the Mathematical Modeling and Intelligent Control Systems Scientific and Technical Complex at the Digital Engineering Institute, Doctor of Physical and Mathematical Sciences, and Sergey Barykin, professor at the Higher School of Service and Trade at the Institute of Industrial Management, Economics and Trade, Doctor of Economic Sciences.

    Also, two SPbPU scientists are included in the annual list of the most cited authors by indicators for the entire career path. These are Sergey Shevkunov, a leading researcher at the Center for Technological Projects, Doctor of Technical Sciences, and Sergey Roshchupkin, a professor at the Higher School of Fundamental Physical Research of the Physics and Mechanics Institute, Doctor of Technical Sciences.

    We are proud that Polytechnics have entered the ranking of the most cited scientists in the world. This is a clear confirmation of the high level of scientific research conducted at our university and the significance of contributions to global science. Being included in such rankings is not only a sign of recognition of individual merits, but also the result of the hard work of the entire scientific team, which strives for innovation and high research standards. I am sure that many discoveries and achievements await us ahead, which will inspire students and young scientists to new achievements, – commented Vice-Rector for Research Yuri Fomin.

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

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

    https://vvv.spbstu.ru/media/nevs/achivments/13-polytechnicians-among-the-most-cited-scientists-in-the-world/

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

    MIL OSI Russia News

  • MIL-OSI Russia: From September 30 to October 4, 2024, a series of popular science events for mathematics teachers of basic schools of the Russian Academy of Sciences took place in Novosibirsk

    MILES AXLE Translation. Region: Russian Federation –

    Source: Novosibirsk State University – Novosibirsk State University –

    Over the course of a week, unique popular science events for mathematics teachers of the RAS basic schools (hereinafter referred to as the School) were held in Novosibirsk at the S.L. Sobolev Institute of Mathematics of the Siberian Branch of the Russian Academy of Sciences and Novosibirsk State University. The project was launched in 2022 and is aimed at popularizing science, discussing significant discoveries, exchanging experiences among specialists, developing a scientific worldview among young people and adolescents, increasing the prestige of science, and expanding the scientific horizons of schoolchildren.

    This year, 29 teachers from 14 regions of Russia took part in the School: Arkhangelsk, Voronezh, Irkutsk, Kemerovo, Moscow, Novosibirsk, Omsk, Rostov, Sverdlovsk, Chelyabinsk regions, as well as from Krasnoyarsk, Perm, Primorsky Krai and the Udmurt Republic.

    Summing up the results of the school, Deputy Governor of the Novosibirsk Region Irina Manuilova noted:

    — Such schools that unite professionals from different regions are extremely useful, so I would like to see as many of them as possible in different parts of Russia. Their goals are in line with the strategy of the Decade of Science and Technology in the Russian Federation, announced by the President of the Russian Federation, as well as the new national projects “Youth and Children” and “Personnel”. I would like to note that recently our region hosted a satellite event of the Technoprom forum, the Big Mathematical Workshop, where student and school teams are involved in solving specific mathematical problems. It is very important that the policy of forming specialized classes and taking a serious attitude towards mathematical education is gaining momentum today. People who come to such training programs are people, thinking people, who are passionate about the cause. Therefore, your thoughts and your experience are extremely important in order to make the right decisions at the level of the Government of the country. I am sure that you have received a good professional background and will continue to work with each other and cooperate. I think that mathematics will take the place it rightfully deserves in school education.

    Dean Faculty of Mechanics and Mathematics, NSU Igor Marchuk spoke in more detail about the training of mathematicians at the university and noted that NSU offers the main profiles of mathematical education.

    — The faculty has created a whole space for applicants, they can choose any of the profiles — someone wants to be a researcher, someone wants to do engineering, and someone — programming. At the same time, there is a principle of openness, when, having passed certain exams, a student can transfer to another profile during their studies.

    On the basis of the S.L. Sobolev Institute of Mathematics of the Siberian Branch of the Russian Academy of Sciences and NSU, a Mathematical center in Akademgorodok, which supports many events, including events with schoolchildren. For example, this is the winter school of the young mathematician “Lobachevsky”, the Workshop of Creative Mathematics. Also, active cooperation with the educational center “Sirius” is now beginning.

    The School program included practical classes and master classes, where issues of organizing research activities for schoolchildren, solving Olympiad problems in mathematics, and conducting in-class and extracurricular activities for students were discussed. This year, in addition to the traditional participant, Gymnasium No. 6 “Gornostay”, one of the Basic Schools of the Russian Academy of Sciences, the School was also joined by SUNC NSUTherefore, the sessions were held in both educational centers.

    The participants of the School visited the leading institutes of the country and educational institutions located in the Novosibirsk Akademgorodok: Sobolev Institute of Mathematics SB RAS, Budker Institute of Nuclear Physics SB RAS, Lavrentyev Institute of Hydrodynamics SB RAS, Sobolev Institute of Geology and Mineralogy SB RAS, SUNC NSU, Educational Center – Gymnasium No. 6 “Gornostay”.

    Popular science lectures were given by leading scientists, including Pavel Vladimirovich Logachev, Doctor of Physical and Mathematical Sciences, Academician of the Russian Academy of Sciences, Director of the G.I. Budker Institute of Nuclear Physics of the Siberian Branch of the Russian Academy of Sciences; Andrey Mikhailovich Raigorodsky, Doctor of Physical and Mathematical Sciences, Professor of Mathematics, Director of the Phystech School of Applied Mathematics and Computer Science of MIPT; Alexey Vladimirovich Savvateev, Doctor of Physical and Mathematical Sciences, Corresponding Member of the Russian Academy of Sciences, Professor of MIPT, Leading Researcher of the Laboratory of Mathematical Economics of the Department of Theoretical Economics and Mathematical Research of the Central Economics and Mathematical Institute of the Russian Academy of Sciences. Also, teachers and associate professors of the NSU Specialized Scientific Center and the Gornostay Educational Center took part in the event as experts.

    For reference: a series of events for mathematics teachers of the RAS basic schools is being held in the Novosibirsk Akademgorodok as part of the implementation of the RAS Basic Schools project, in which 108 general education organizations from 32 regions of the Russian Federation are participating.

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

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

    http://vvv.nsu.ru/n/media/nevs/education/from-September-30-to-October-4-2024-a series-of-popular-scientific-events took place in-Novosibirsk-

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

    MIL OSI Russia News

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Coming up next week at the London Assembly W/C 7 October

    Source: Mayor of London

    PUBLIC MEETINGS

    Wednesday 9 October

    Policing protests in London

    Police and Crime Committee – The Chamber, City Hall, Kamal Chunchie Way, 10am

    Policing protests and large-scale events in the capital is putting increased strain on the Metropolitan Police Service, with the Met describing protests since October 2023 as the “greatest period of sustained pressure since the Olympics in 2012.”

    The Police and Crime Committee will hold the first meeting of its investigation into public order policing in London.

    Panel 1: 10:00am – 11:30am

    • Matt Parr, former Inspector, HMICFRS
    • Lord Walney, former Government Independent Adviser on Political Violence and Disruption
    • Kirsty Brimelow KC, Barrister, Doughty Street Chambers

    Panel 2: 11:35am – 1:00pm

    • Jodie Beck, Policy and Campaigns Officer, Liberty
    • Professor Geoff Pearson, Professor of Law at the University of Manchester and Academic Director of the N8 Policing Research Partnership
    • Tom Southerden, Programme Director, Law & Human Rights, Amnesty International
    • David Spencer, Head of Crime and Justice, Policy Exchange

    MEDIA CONTACT: Tony Smyth on 07763 251727/ [email protected]

    Wednesday 9 October

    ‘Social value’ in planning and regeneration

    Planning and Regeneration Committee – The Chamber, City Hall, Kamal Chunchie Way, 2pm

    The London Plan does not define ‘social value’, but it is referred to in various policies and supporting texts.

    In the first meeting of its investigation into how social value is considered in planning decisions for markets and arches, the Planning and Regeneration Committee will question experts, local authorities and industry representatives about what it means, how it’s measured, and how it can make a difference to Londoners.

    The guests are:

    Panel 1: 2.00pm – 3.15pm

    • Maria Adebowale-Schwarte, Commissioner for the London Sustainable Development Commission
    • Tony Burton, Founder of Civic Voice and Chair of Community Review Panels in Old Oak & Park Royal and Dacorum
    • Dr Myfanwy Taylor, Lecturer in Urban Economics and Planning, University College London
    • Guy Battle, Chief Executive Officer at Social Value Portal
    • Stephanie Edwards, Co-Founding Director Urban Symbiotics

    Panel 2: 3.30pm – 4.45pm

    • Krissie Nicolson, CEO London Trades Guild
    • Nicholas Kasic, manager of Portobello Road Market and convener of the London Street Trading Benchmarking Group 
    • Sarah Goldzweig, Research and Project Officer at Latin Elephant
    • Stephen Biggs, Corporate Director, Community Wealth Building, London Borough of Islington 
    • Bryce Tudball, Head of Spatial Planning, London Borough of Haringey

    MEDIA CONTACT: Josh Hunt on 07763 252310 / [email protected]

    Thursday 10 October

    Mayor’s Question Time

    The Chamber, City Hall, Kamal Chunchie Way, 10am

    The Mayor of London, Sadiq Khan, will face questions from London Assembly Members.

    Topics include:

    • Aligning the Budget with Manifesto Commitments
    • Night-Time Economy
    • Net zero targets and advertising on the TfL network
    • Cleaning Up London’s Waterways

    MEDIA CONTACT: Alison Bell on 07887 832 918 / [email protected]

    MIL OSI United Kingdom

  • MIL-OSI Russia: “I dream that all universities in Russia would have the same conditions for scientists as HSE”

    MILES AXLE Translation. Region: Russian Federation –

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

    Anastasia Sherubneva studies spatial economics and is writing a dissertation on the crises of 2020 and 2022. In an interview with the Young Scientists of HSE project, she spoke about the influence of agglomeration effects on enterprises, the Novosibirsk Akademgorodok, and a meeting with Nobel laureate Paul Krugman in Portugal.

    How I got started in science

    Since childhood, I liked creativity. I always came up with something new, tried to find non-standard solutions to problems. In the 10th grade, I took a six-month course in economics, and I liked that real processes are described by clear mathematical models.

    After school, I entered NSU to major in business informatics, where they study, on the one hand, economics, and on the other, programming. My favorite course in the first year of study was microeconomics. Our seminars on it were taught by Elizaveta Andreyevna Gaivoronskaya. She was then about the same age as I am now, and was passionate about science. She explained things in an interesting way, and I inherited her desire to do economic research.

    From my first year, I started thinking about how I could apply what we were taught in lectures and seminars, what I would do after graduating. I started planning a scientific career.

    NSU is located in Akademgorodok, where several dozen research institutes are located. In my third year, I was invited to work in the Department of Territorial Systems of the Institute of Economics and Industrial Engineering of the Siberian Branch of the Russian Academy of Sciences. I began to study regional economics under the supervision of Evgeniya Anatolyevna Kolomak. At the same time, my programming skills helped me work with real data. The institute had a great team, the seniors always supported the juniors. There was a Council of Young Scientists, we came up with activities, organized conferences, and could just go for a walk together.

    After working there for two years, I entered the Higher School of Economics and got into a single track “master’s degree – postgraduate study”. My academic supervisor was Olga Anatolyevna DemidovaShe works in spatial econometrics, and our research interests coincided.

    When I was in my second year of master’s degree, Olga Anatolyevna created the Scientific and Educational Laboratory of Spatial-Econometric Modeling of Socioeconomic Processes in Russia. I ended up in this laboratory. Now I am a postgraduate student, working under the supervision of Olga Anatolyevna on my PhD dissertation. Here, too, a wonderful scientific team has formed, and I am very glad that I went into science.

    What I am researching

    My area of research is spatial economics. Globally, this section of economics studies how the economic position of an entity depends on its geographical location.

    In my dissertation, I study the impact of macroeconomic shocks on the performance of Russian enterprises using the 2020 and 2022 crises as examples. I examine whether the impact of these shocks differed across enterprises located in different locations, both in different regions and within one, for example, in the capital and on the periphery.

    And while many researchers conduct interregional comparisons, few study spatial differences at the intraregional level. This is the main novelty of my research.

    I am currently finishing my research on the 2020 crisis and will be working on the 2022 crisis in graduate school.

    What business data do I use?

    I work with micro data, and I have the ability to build models at the enterprise level. I am currently using data from the SPARK database: financial statements of enterprises, their geographic location, individual characteristics.

    What I wanted to know

    I asked the question this way: how did the influence of various factors, in particular geographic location, on the efficiency of enterprises change during the crises of 2020 and 2022?

    Existing studies have shown that the differentiation of the COVID-19 crisis was mainly not regional, but sectoral. The sectors that suffered were those related to offline interaction: tourism, transport, hotels, and catering. This primarily concerned the regions where they are more represented. Another important factor was the state of medicine. In poor regions, quarantine measures were stricter because the medical system could not cope, and the economy began to decline. And regions where digitalization is developed, everyone has smartphones, experience using deliveries, good healthcare, survived the crisis easier.

    However, within a region, the effects of crises can also vary, and this is precisely the aspect I am exploring.

    My conclusions

    I studied how the financial performance of enterprises depends on similar performance of neighboring enterprises. Let’s say there is an enterprise, its neighbor has gone bad, the company closes or goes into the red. What happens to it? It is assumed that nearby enterprises interact with each other. I came to the conclusion that before the 2020 crisis, the financial condition of the enterprise had a positive impact on neighboring ones and during the crisis too, but this impact became weaker. The explanation here is obvious: offline interaction decreased during the pandemic, and this was confirmed by microdata using mathematical methods.

    Another interesting result describes the influence of agglomeration effects on the performance of enterprises depending on their location – in the city center, where there are many other enterprises and a high population density, or on the outskirts, where there is nothing.

    In general, agglomeration effects are beneficial for enterprises in Russia. But if we approach large agglomerations such as Moscow, St. Petersburg, Kazan, the influence of agglomeration effects becomes negative. This is true both during and outside of a crisis. Big city effects (traffic jams, inflated prices, etc.) hinder the work of enterprises. These results indicate that large Russian agglomerations are heavily overloaded.

    What I am proud of

    In July, I published my independent article in the American journal Regional Science Policy

    I recently attended a conference of the European Regional Science Association in Portugal and gave a talk there. I mentioned that I used the HSE supercomputer in my research. And the discussant in my section said that it was great that I was able to use the supercomputer for such purposes and get new results.

    What is the HSE supercomputer?

    A supercomputer is a system of clusters between which computational processes can be distributed. It has a huge operational memory, which is measured in terabytes, and if calculations are parallelized between cores, it is possible to make cumbersome calculations.

    Using the HSE supercomputer allowed me to work with data from enterprises all over Russia, my sample included 300 thousand enterprises. I used a geographically weighted regression model, and for this you need to calculate pairwise distances between all enterprises, which requires enormous computing power.

    What I dream about

    I want to conduct a study on how enterprises in different industries influence each other geographically. For example, if a cinema and a cafe are located nearby, then most likely they will influence each other positively. But if it is a chemical plant and an eco-farm, it is clear that the mutual influence will be negative. This study requires certain data that is not yet available.

    For me, science is a way to learn something globally new and share it with others, to understand how this result relates to the results of other studies.

    I dream that all universities and research institutes in Russia would have the same comfortable conditions for scientists as HSE. If we talk about young scientists, there is a single track “Master’s degree – postgraduate study” with a large stipend. Postgraduate students are not forced, as happens in other organizations, to look for part-time jobs and can focus on writing a dissertation. HSE offers bonuses for publications, and there is an additional incentive to publish in high-level journals. Here, scientists receive a decent salary and are motivated to work for the benefit of science.

    If I hadn’t become a scientist

    I would become a human rights activist because justice has always been the highest value for me. Even at school I was interested in law, in any unclear situation I read the laws and in the 11th grade I became a prize winner of the regional stage of the All-Russian School Olympiad.

    Which scientist would I like to meet?

    If we talk about living scientists, it is Paul Krugman, the 2008 Nobel laureate in economics. He also studies regional economics, we are in the same field. I like his concept of new economic geography – it is a pool of theoretical models that explains the emergence of agglomerations from an economic point of view. This year at the congress in Portugal I met him, I even have a photo with Paul.

    If we talk about those who are no longer alive, it would be Marie Sklodowska-Curie. A great scientist, the first woman to win the Nobel Prize, the first person to have two Nobel Prizes, and the only one to have these prizes in different sciences.

    I admire her for being so enthusiastic about her work, for overcoming obstacles all her life for the sake of science. The University of Warsaw in her native Poland did not accept women at the time, so she went to study in Paris. She was not accepted as a teacher or in a laboratory simply because she was a woman. Her colleagues did not recognize her achievements, even when she received her first Nobel Prize. At the same time, she worked with radioactive substances that were dangerous to health, and was one of the inventors of the X-ray machine, which saved many lives. I would like to ask her where she found the strength for this daily struggle.

    I often think about her now, when they are trying to return women to the kitchen again and deputies are talking about how women do not need an education, but rather need to give birth to five children.

    What my typical day looks like

    Basically, different combinations of work tasks. A significant part of my work consists of doing calculations, programming, writing articles, texts. In addition, I recently became a teacher, conducting seminars in English on the course “Mathematics for Economists” in my own master’s program, which I completed this year.

    Do I get burnout?

    I have not encountered burnout yet. My total scientific and pedagogical experience is about four years. And it is probably too early to talk about burnout, especially since I love my job. It is clear that there are more productive days, less productive days, but I try not to allow burnout. I arrange rest days when I do not think about work, walk in the fresh air, listen to music, read books, watch movies. I also like to ride a bike and swim.

    What am I interested in besides science?

    I like making memes. It helps me cope with life stress, because turning something into a joke is a kind of psychotherapy. The Institute of Economics has a group of the Council of Young Scientists on VKontakte. When I was a 4th-year undergraduate, I became one of the admins of this group, ran a section and published memes about our work and the institute.

    Now I have a Telegram channel “Nastya Sherubneva in …”, but I have become less likely to make memes. It is more dedicated to trips to conferences. I started it when I went to the European Regional Science Association (ERSA) conference in Spain a year ago. It was my first trip abroad, not counting Belarus, I was happy and wanted to document every second. At first, the channel was planned only for friends, but I thought that someone else might be interested, so I made it open access. Every time I go to a new place, I rename it.

    What was the last thing I read and watched?

    From books – “1984” by George Orwell. And from films – “Don’t Worry, Darling” by Olivia Wilde. A married couple lives in a small closed town, they have an ideal life, they are rich, they love each other. But at some point the wife notices that something is wrong, people are disappearing, and as a result she finds out that their whole life is a simulation. She got there thanks to her husband, who himself wanted to get rid of unbearable experiences and save her. The film raises the question of whether such a simulation is a way out, whether it is possible to pretend that everything is wonderful, to invent an imaginary world. And even more so to be a victim of someone else’s decision. I believe that a person should decide for himself, I am against lies and restrictions for the good.

    Advice to young scientists

    Start writing your own articles as early as possible. You don’t need to become a teaching assistant or do technical work, because later it will be hard to start writing articles, working with texts, and creating literature reviews. You also need to try to decide on a scientific direction as early as possible, to understand what undeveloped problems exist in this area. A good scientific supervisor who is interested in the student and sees the trajectory of his development can help you do this.

    Favorite place in Moscow

    Museum-Reserve “Tsaritsyno”. This place has a great history, but I also like it because it is a park-estate. Akademgorodok, where I used to live, is in the forest, and in Moscow I miss forest walks. But in Tsaritsyno it is green and you can walk.

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

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

    http://vvv.hse.ru/jung-scientists/sherubneva

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

    MIL OSI Russia News

  • MIL-OSI: Biz2Credit to Host “Small Business, Inflation, and the Economy in 2024” Online Town Hall on Tuesday, Oct. 8, with U.S. Representatives Nick LaLota (R-NY) and Sylvia Garcia (D-TX)

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    NEW YORK, Oct. 04, 2024 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Biz2Credit will host U.S. Representatives Nick LaLota (R, NY-01) and Sylvia Garcia (D, TX-29) to discuss the state of the small business economy in 2024 and the actions that Congress is taking to support business owners. The virtual forum will take place on Tuesday, October 8, at 2:00 p.m. (EDT) and will explore topics including:

    • Challenges for small business owners in 2024 and looking into 2025.
    • Initiatives the Federal government is considering next that may provide further economic support to American small businesses.
    • How a President Harris or President Trump will address small business issues.
    • Preparing for what’s coming next with Biz2Credit’s review of business financing options as 2024 closes and amid the recent interest rate cut by the Federal Reserve.
    • Biz2Credit’s research and insights on primary data from small business owners.

    This online forum will give business owners a chance to hear from Rep. LaLota, a member of the House Committee on Small Business, and Rep. Garcia, who has helped provide crucial aid to Texas small businesses. They will discuss the small business environment in their districts, provide insights on how the Federal government and private industry are collaborating to help entrepreneurs, and respond to questions from constituents and business owners. To register for this event, click here.

    “We are thrilled to have Rep. LaLota and Rep. Garcia join our online Town Hall and discuss their positions on small business, the current economic environments in their home districts, and how Washington can best support entrepreneurial growth,” said Rohit Arora, CEO of Biz2Credit and one of the nation’s leading experts in small business finance.

    U.S. Representative Nick LaLota (R, NY-01) was sworn into office in January 2023. Inspired by his family’s history of service, he graduated from the U.S. Naval Academy and reached the rank of Lieutenant. Later, he earned his MBA at Hofstra University’s Zarb School of Business and his J.D. from Hofstra’s Maurice A. Deane School of Law. As a member of the Amityville Board of Trustees, he focused on reducing taxes and improving services. Today, in Congress, he advocates for lower taxes, energy independence, and the protection of constitutional freedoms. As a member of the House Committee on Small Business, he serves as chair of the Subcommittee on Contracting and Infrastructure and is a member of the Subcommittee on Economic Growth, Tax, and Capital Access.

    “I’m excited to join the Biz2Credit Small Business Town Hall to tackle the challenges and opportunities our small businesses face,” said Rep. LaLota. “As a proud member of the House Small Business Committee, I know just how crucial these businesses are to our economy. I’ll keep pushing for policies that strengthen small businesses as the backbone of America!”

    U.S. Representative Sylvia R. Garcia (D, TX-29) was sworn into Congress in January 2019 and thereby became the first Latina to represent Texas in her district. She graduated from Texas Woman’s University with a degree in social work and political science, and later graduated from the Thurgood Marshall School of Law at Texas Southern University. Rep. Garcia has served as a social worker and a legal aid lawyer and later as Presiding Judge of the Houston Municipal System, Houston City Controller, and Harris County Commissioner. After serving in the Texas State Senate, she was elected to represent Texas’s 29th Congressional District 29 and became the first Hispanic member of the Houston Congressional Delegation and one of the first two Latinas to represent Texas in the Congress. She has long been an advocate for working families and economic development.

    “Small businesses are the backbone of our communities and the start of so many American Dreams. Women and minority entrepreneurs, especially in the Latino community, have been driving our recovery with strength and resilience,” said Rep. Garcia, who serves as the Vice Ranking Member of the House Financial Services Committee. “It’s our job in Congress to ensure they have the tools and resources to keep thriving. I’m excited to join Rep. LaLota and Biz2Credit to talk about how we can make that happen.”

    About Biz2Credit
    Founded in 2007, Biz2Credit has helped thousands of companies access more than $10 billion in small business financing. The company is expanding its industry-leading Biz2X® technology in custom digital platform solutions for banks and other financial institutions, investors, and service providers. Visit http://www.biz2credit.com, Instagram, Facebook, and X (formerly Twitter).

    Media Contact: John Mooney, (908) 720-6057, john@overthemoonpr.com

    The MIL Network

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Two Board Members reappointed to The National Lottery Community Fund board

    Source: United Kingdom – Executive Government & Departments

    The Secretary of State has reappointed John Mothersole as the England Committee Chair and Kate Still as the Scotland Committee Chair for a second term of two years commencing on 14 May 2024.

    John Mothersole

    John Mothersole has held senior local government posts in UK cities including London, most recently as Chief Executive of Sheffield City Council. Since standing down from that post in December 2019 after 11 years, John has taken on a series of non-executive roles which now include Chair of The Sheffield College, trustee of a community care charity and advisory roles with companies involved in regeneration and environment. He was also an assessor for the Grenfell Tower Public Inquiry, a role that concluded with the publication of the final report in September 2024. Prior to being selected as Chair of the National Lottery Community Fund England Committee John was a member of that committee.

    John has been heavily involved in the policy agenda for UK cities through the Core Cities network, the Northern Powerhouse initiative and with Government in securing city and city region devolution deals and participating in trade missions.His early career was in the arts, primarily in London and the North-East, and he sees a highlight of that part of his career being the reopening of the Roundhouse in London which enabled its subsequent redevelopment.

    Kate Still

    Kate is currently conducting the Independent Review of Community Learning and

    Development across Scotland on behalf of the Scottish Government. She was a Board

    member of ERSA for many years, Chair of Employment Support Scotland and a Fellow of

    the Institute of Employability. Kate started her career as a teacher after completing an MA

    (Hons) in Politics at Glasgow University.

    She has over 25 years of relevant experience in delivery of education, apprenticeships, skills, employability and community enterprise and regeneration programmes across multiple sectors, including 15+ years in the Charity sector. Kate has a passionate desire to make a difference coupled with the drive to achieve impact on issues of poverty, equality and diversity and social justice. Kate has held strategic leadership roles at EU and UK levels including Management of EU aid programmes to Central and Eastern Europe. A former Board Member of Strathclyde European Partnership, she completed her MPhil in European Policy research at Strathclyde University in 2011.Kate has held Director roles previously with the Prince’s Trust, Rathbone and Wise Group.

    Remuneration and Governance Code

    These positions are remunerated at £24,000 per annum. These appointments have been made in accordance with the Cabinet Office’s Governance Code on Public Appointments. The appointments process is regulated by the Commissioner for Public Appointments. Under the Code, any significant political activity undertaken by an appointee in the last five years must be declared. This is defined as including holding office, public speaking, making a recordable donation, or candidature for election. John Mothersole and Kate Still have not declared any significant political activity.

    Updates to this page

    Published 4 October 2024

    MIL OSI United Kingdom

  • MIL-OSI: Beneficient Appoints Patrick J. Donegan to Board of Directors

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    DALLAS, Oct. 04, 2024 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Beneficient (NASDAQ: BENF) (“Ben” or the “Company”), a technology-enabled financial services holding company, today announced the appointment of Patrick J. Donegan as an independent member of the Company’s Board of Directors as of September 30, 2024. In addition to being an independent director, he was appointed to serve on the Audit, Products and Related Party Transactions, Credit and Enterprise Risk committees of the Board.

    Mr. Donegan brings almost thirty years of compliance, legal, banking and capital markets experience to Ben, having held various senior compliance positions, including as Chief Compliance Officer, for bank holding companies and broker dealers and as Assistant General Counsel for a securities company. Over the course of his career, Mr. Donegan has attained eleven FINRA licenses and two certifications from the American Bankers Association, including the Certified Regulatory Compliance Mangers designation, and currently holds a Certified Anti-Money Laundering Specialist certification.

    “Our Board worked to identify a new, independent director who would bring unique skills and senior experience to support Ben’s commitment to operate using industry best practices,” said Beneficient’s CEO and Chairman Brad Heppner. “I am pleased to welcome Patrick to Ben’s Board. Patrick’s extensive legal and regulatory compliance experience – specifically within the FinTech industry – will provide valuable leadership and governance insights to the Board.”

    Mr. Donegan received a Bachelor of Science in Accounting from St. John’s University and a J.D. from St. John’s University School of Law. Mr. Donegan currently serves as a Senior Adviser at Premier Consulting Partners, Inc., a consulting firm focused on operational risk evaluation and compliance, and previously served as the Global Chief Compliance Officer of OKX Group from August 2023 to January 2024. From 2015 to 2023, Mr. Donegan held various leadership positions at Signature Bank, including Chief Compliance Officer, Senior Vice President and Sanctions Compliance Officer. Mr. Donegan’s professional career has also included positions with a number of prominent investment banks, including Cantor Fitzgerald, RBC, Guggenheim, BNP Paribas and Nat West, and compliance roles at Mitsubishi UFJ and Hudson City Bancorp. Through his legal experience and compliance officer roles, Mr. Donegan has developed expertise in identifying risks and establishing policies and procedure to effectively manage those risks. Mr. Donegan’s understanding of banking and capital markets rules and the related regulatory processes will benefit the Company’s efforts to maintain industry best practices across the organization.

    About Beneficient

    Beneficient (Nasdaq: BENF) – Ben, for short – is on a mission to democratize the global alternative asset investment market by providing traditionally underserved investors − mid-to-high net worth individuals, small-to-midsized institutions and General Partners seeking exit options, anchor commitments and valued-added services for their funds − with solutions that could help them unlock the value in their alternative assets. Ben’s AltQuote™ tool provides customers with a range of potential exit options within minutes, while customers can log on to the AltAccess® portal to explore opportunities and receive proposals in a secure online environment.

    Its subsidiary, Beneficient Fiduciary Financial, L.L.C., received its charter under the State of Kansas’ Technology-Enabled Fiduciary Financial Institution (TEFFI) Act and is subject to regulatory oversight by the Office of the State Bank Commissioner.

    For more information, visit http://www.trustben.com or follow us on LinkedIn.

    Investors

    investors@beneficient.com

    Contacts

    Matt Kreps: 214-597-8200, mkreps@darrowir.com
    Michael Wetherington: 214-284-1199, mwetherington@darrowir.com
    Investor Relations: investors@beneficient.com

    Disclaimer and Cautionary Note Regarding Forward-Looking Statements

    Certain of the statements contained in this press release are forward-looking statements within the meaning of Section 27A of the Securities Act of 1933, as amended, and Section 21E of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as amended. These forward-looking statements can be generally identified by the use of words such as “anticipate,” “believe,” “could,” “estimate,” “expect,” “intend,” “may,” “plan,” “potential,” “predict,” “project,” “should,” “target,” “will,” “would,” and, in each case, their negative or other various or comparable terminology. These forward-looking statements reflect our views with respect to future events as of the date of this document and are based on our management’s current expectations, estimates, forecasts, projections, assumptions, beliefs and information. Although management believes that the expectations reflected in these forward-looking statements are reasonable, it can give no assurance that these expectations will prove to have been correct. All such forward-looking statements are subject to risks and uncertainties, many of which are outside of our control, and could cause future events or results to be materially different from those stated or implied in this document. It is not possible to predict or identify all such risks. These risks include, but are not limited to, the risk factors that are described under the section titled “Risk Factors” in our Annual Report on Form 10-K, Quarterly Reports on Form 10-Q, Current Reports on Form 8-K, and other filings with the Securities and Exchange Commission (the “SEC”). These factors should not be construed as exhaustive and should be read in conjunction with the other cautionary statements that are included in this document and in our SEC filings. We expressly disclaim any obligation to publicly update or review any forward-looking statements, whether as a result of new information, future developments or otherwise, except as required by applicable law.

    The MIL Network

  • MIL-OSI Russia: Rosneft supports projects to study and preserve biodiversity

    MILES AXLE Translation. Region: Russian Federation –

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

    On October 4, the whole world celebrates Animal Protection Day, which was established in 1931 with the aim of drawing attention to the problems of preserving the inhabitants of our planet.

    Rosneft pays special attention to environmental issues and biodiversity conservation. Environmental care is an integral part of the Company’s corporate culture and social responsibility. The protection and preservation of ecosystems and biodiversity is one of Rosneft’s main environmental goals until 2035.

    The Company is implementing the largest Arctic region study program since Soviet times. Over 50 expeditions have been conducted over 12 years, during which the country’s leading scientists have studied key species-bioindicators of Arctic ecosystem stability: polar bear, Atlantic walrus, wild reindeer and ivory gull. This has allowed them to collect a unique array of information about the Arctic animal world. The data obtained is used to create a series of ecological atlases by Rosneft and Innopraktika.

    In 2024, as part of the national project “Ecology”, the Company launched a new research program called “Tamura”. In the period up to 2027, it is planned to study reindeer, polar bear, valuable bird species, and fish in the mouth of the Yenisei River on the Taimyr Peninsula. In total, ten expeditions will be conducted over four years. This season, scientists have already carried out field work to study birds on the Brekhov Islands, as well as large islands of the Yenisei Gulf. The total length of the air routes of the bird study expedition conducted in the Krasnoyarsk Territory exceeded 4,000 km.

    In addition, with the support of Rosneft, a research expedition to study wild reindeer was organized within the Tamura program. The total length of the expedition’s boat routes to study wild reindeer exceeded 2,800 km, and the area of aerial observations was 360 thousand km2. Rosneft has been studying wild reindeer since 2014. During this time, large-scale ground and aerial surveys of animals were conducted in Evenkia and Taimyr. Using satellite tags installed on the reindeer, scientists tracked their full annual migration cycle for the first time, and also identified seasonal behavior patterns.

    The Company pays special attention to the study and conservation of the polar bear. Scientists from the A.N. Severtsov Institute of Ecology and Evolution of the Russian Academy of Sciences, together with the Company’s specialists, conducted a full-scale census of the polar bear population distribution during the ice-free period on the northwestern coast of the Taimyr Peninsula and the islands of the Kara Sea as part of the Tamura program. The total length of the polar bear study expedition’s air routes exceeded 2,500 km, and the scientists encountered 50 Arctic predators in total. For the first time in Russian practice, ear radio tags were placed not only on females, but also on males.

    Rosneft, together with the non-governmental development institute Innopraktika and the Center for Full Genome Sequencing, are implementing a unique project to create a genomic database of living organisms in the Russian Arctic. This information is needed for long-term planning of the region’s sustainable development and the preservation of its fragile ecosystems. Among the priority projects is the assembly of the polar bear’s full genome.

    Since 2013, Rosneft has been the guardian of all polar bears living in Russian zoos. Currently, the Company patronizes 34 polar bears in 16 zoos in the country, providing them with care, feeding, veterinary support, and updating their enclosures. With the support of the Company, special toys have been developed to increase the physical activity of the animals. In addition, Rosneft is implementing a program to rescue and rehabilitate young polar bears left in the wild without the care of their mothers.

    Rosneft also supports programs to preserve the Amur tiger population – interacting with specially protected natural areas in the predator’s habitat, rehabilitation and reintroduction centers for animals. With the Company’s participation, equipment and transport for scientific purposes are purchased, and social infrastructure for scientists is being built.

    In 2024, scientists from the Siberian Federal University, with the support of Rosneft, analyzed the state of the wolf population in the Evenki District of the Krasnoyarsk Territory. The result of the research was a set of recommendations from specialists on improving the regulation of the number of predators to maintain the balance of ecosystems. In total, the researchers conducted 67 field trips to various areas and reserves of Yenisei Siberia. Specialists developed a method for calculating the number of predators, according to which the wolf population in Evenkia numbers 2,600 individuals.

    The study and protection of the whale and dolphin population is one of the areas of the Company’s environmental program. As part of environmental monitoring when supporting Rosneft projects, observations are made from ships of all mammals found in the vast expanses of the seas, including whales and dolphins. One of the main species that receives close attention is the gray whale of the Okhotsk Sea population. The program for monitoring the Okhotsk Sea population of gray whales on the northeastern shelf of Sakhalin Island has been conducted for 27 years. As part of the program, the population size is annually counted, animal behavior is observed, their food supply is studied, photo-identification studies and acoustic monitoring are carried out.

    In addition, in 2020, Rosneft, together with the P.P. Shirshov Institute of Oceanology of the Russian Academy of Sciences, implemented a large-scale project to study and monitor Black Sea dolphins. Based on the results of 3 years of observations, modern up-to-date data were obtained on the number and preferred habitats of Black Sea dolphins, and the characteristics of their seasonal distribution. Recommendations were prepared for the study and conservation of Black Sea cetaceans.

    Department of Information and Advertising of PJSC NK Rosneft October 4, 2024

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

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

    http://vvv.rosneft.ru/press/nevs/item/220882/

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

    MIL OSI Russia News

  • MIL-OSI Europe: Third State University Moot Court Competition held in Mostar

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

    Headline: Third State University Moot Court Competition held in Mostar

    The Faculty of Law of the University of Mostar organized jointly with the High Judicial and Prosecutorial Council of BiH (HJPC BiH), the International Organisation for Migration (IOM), and the OSCE Mission to BiH (Mission) the Third State University Moot Court Competition in Mostar. (OSCE) Photo details

    Mostar, 4 October 2024 – From 2 to 4 October the Faculty of Law of the University of Mostar organized jointly with the High Judicial and Prosecutorial Council of BiH (HJPC BiH), the International Organisation for Migration (IOM), and the OSCE Mission to BiH (Mission) the Third State University Moot Court Competition in Mostar. 16 law students and their professors from the law faculties in Zenica, Tuzla, Bihać and Mostar attending the competition were able to present their best skills and knowledge in the jurisprudence of the European Court of Human Rights (ECtHR).
    The competition was divided in several phases: in May 2024, a case study on the rights of vulnerable groups and trafficking in human beings was developed by the Mission and distributed to the teams to prepare written submissions in July 2024. The final round in October focused on the teams’ oratory skills in presenting their arguments.
    The written submissions of each team of four students and a mentor were evaluated and presented before the panel of judges composed of members of the justice community in BiH: the Court of BiH, the Ombudsman Institution, the Constitutional Court of BiH, other courts, prosecutor’s offices, and the Bar.
    This competition was designed to highlight the talent of young legal professionals vis-a-vis important rule of law and human rights issues advocated by the Mission. It was an excellent opportunity to build students’ legal analytical skills, increase their capacity to develop briefs, and provide a forum to practice oral argumentation before prominent legal professionals in BiH. In addition, the teams have enhanced their practical knowledge of applying the European Convention on Human Rights in accordance with rules and procedures that apply before the European Court of Human Rights.
    Representing the students, Ms. Magdalena Zelenika, deputy president of the Student Union of the Faculty of Law, University of Mostar underlined the importance of the competition in simulating trial before the ECtHR for education and professional development. “It allowed us to apply theoretical knowledge in practice, and at the same time we got the opportunity to co-operate with the best legal experts in the country. These experiences have further motivated us to continue working on ourselves and prepare for the challenges of the legal profession that await us”, she added.
    Ms. Sanela Gorušanović Butigan, Deputy President of the HJPC BiH pointed out that for the third year in a row the HJPC BiH supports the implementation of this competition, which is important for the professional development of students and the improvement of legal education.
    “Our commitment to improving education through the practical application of theoretical knowledge was confirmed by the adoption of the Guidelines on long-term cooperation between judicial institutions and law faculties. These Guidelines, adopted in February 2023, resulted in the active engagement of the majority of judicial institutions, including the HJPC BiH, which shows the commitment of the judiciary to contribute to the quality education of future legal experts,” said Deputy President Gorušanović Butigan.
    “We see the topics that you have researched in the past few weeks as extremely relevant for the BiH context – rule of law and fundamental freedoms are high on the agenda of the Mission and they are an important part of BiH’s path towards the EU”, stated Mr. Jiri Rous, Head of the Mission’s Field Office in Mostar. “This competition proves to be a valuable opportunity for the young people from different parts of the country to meet, learn together and network”, he noted.
    The Mission commends the hard work of the participating teams in the past several months, congratulates to the winners and stands ready to support the activity in the future.

    MIL OSI Europe News

  • MIL-OSI Russia: Putin and Sobyanin opened an innovative practical platform in Rudnev

    MILES AXLE Translation. Region: Russian Federation –

    Source: Moscow Government – Government of Moscow –

    On the Day of Secondary Vocational Education, Russian President Vladimir Putin, Moscow Mayor Sergei Sobyanin and Russian Minister of Education Sergei Kravtsov opened the Rudnevo practical training site for Moscow colleges.

    “We have started building a large area related to education. This is secondary vocational education. This building where we are is an intercollegiate center for training specialists on high-tech equipment. Next, a laboratory complex is being built. Next, a building for the Stankin University is being built, where there will be a student training center, their laboratories and production areas. Next, a building for the production of Rostec machine tools will be built. So this is a large machine-building complex that will be a center of competence for our country,” the Moscow Mayor said.

    The Rudnevo site is the first innovative educational space for practical training of qualified personnel taking into account the needs of the Moscow economy, which is the largest production and scientific-engineering center of Russia. More than 4.5 thousand enterprises operate here and over 750 thousand people work.

    Educational platform “Rudnevo”

    The college training platform was created taking into account the new concept of secondary vocational education (SVE) development. The capital’s industrial enterprises took part in the development of the project. Advanced training programs, workshops equipped with the most modern equipment, close cooperation with future employers ensure high quality training of sought-after specialists.

    The educational platform is located in the industrial park “Rudnevo”, which is part of the special economic zone “Technopolis Moscow”. College students will study on the same territory with industrial partners – future employers.

    “The site’s capacity allows for training more than three thousand people per year. Practical classes are conducted by the most competent and experienced master teachers and employees of partner employers. Students from 15 Moscow colleges will be the first to undergo practical training here. A Center for Professional Competencies has also been created on the site. Its tasks include updating educational programs and forecasting the emergence of new competencies,” he wrote in his

    telegram channel Sergei Sobyanin.

    Source: Sergei Sobyanin’s Telegram channel @mos_sobyanin

    The building with a total area of 9.1 thousand square meters houses a high-tech complex, which includes 21 workshops and laboratories. It is as close as possible to the conditions of real production. Here, students will be able to practice professional skills in production conditions in such areas and specialties as:

    — mechanical engineering (assembly mechanic, turner, milling machine operator, operator of CNC machines, general machine operator, welder (manual and partially mechanized welding – surfacing), adjuster of machines and equipment in mechanical processing, specialist in the quality control department);

    — electronics (installer of electronic equipment and devices, assembler of electronic equipment and devices, adjuster of electronic equipment and devices, SMD line operator);

    — automation of production (specialist in servicing mechatronic and robotic systems, fitter of control and measuring instruments and automation, specialist in additive technologies);

    — aviation industry, including unmanned aircraft systems (UAS) (aircraft electrical equipment fitter, aircraft equipment assembler, aircraft composite parts assembler, unmanned aircraft system operator up to 30 kilograms).

    Thanks to cooperation with residents of the Rudnevo Industrial Park, all conditions for training have been created on the site. Workshops and laboratories are equipped with equipment that is installed in production facilities, and the training programs take into account the needs of future employers.

    The training and production complex of the site includes three blocks.

    The industrial block consists of a section where CNC machines are installed, laboratories for metrology, standardization and certification, precision digital measurements, mechanical engineering design, as well as testing grounds for turning, milling machines, and metalworking and welding work.

    The UAS production site includes areas for programming, installation of aviation and electronic equipment, final assembly of UAS, modeling and manufacturing of molds, composite materials, unit and modular assembly, as well as laboratories for aerodynamics, aeromechanics and UAS data analysis.

    The multi-profile unit consists of metalworking and electrical installation workshops, laboratories for technical systems control, materials science and composite materials, pneumatic and hydraulic systems.

    The uniqueness of the workshops is that they allow for a full-fledged production process to be organized. At the UAS site, students will be able to manufacture drone bodies, solder electronic boards, program, assemble, pilot, and decipher flight data, and in the mechanical engineering zone, they will be able to do metalwork and evaluate the quality of finished products.

    Large industrial enterprises take part in the practical training of students. Among them are the Moscow machine-building plants Avangard and Skorost, the production complex Salut, the National Helicopter Manufacturing Center named after M.L. Mil and N.I. Kamov, the Moscow Design and Production Complex Universal named after A.I. Privalov, the companies Gaskar Group, Kronstadt, Aeromax, Nyukon Energy, CARS, Vemina Aviaprestige, Monolith, Aeropribor-Voskhod.

    Preparing students at the educational site “Rudnevo”

    The capacity of the Rudnevo educational site allows it to train more than three thousand students per year.

    In the 2024/2025 academic year, practical training will be provided to students from 15 secondary specialized educational institutions. These include Polytechnic College No. 8 named after I.F. Pavlov, Polytechnic College named after N.N. Godovikov, Moscow State Educational Complex, College of Communications No. 54 named after P.M. Vostrukhin, College of Automation and Information Technology No. 20, Educational Complex “Yugo-Zapad”, Moscow Industrial College, College of Architecture, Design and Reengineering No. 26, College of Hospitality Industry and Management No. 23, Police College, Moscow College of Business Technologies, College of Modern Technologies named after M.F. Panov, College of Entrepreneurship No. 11, First Moscow Educational Complex and Technological College No. 24.

    Depending on the specialty, students will be able to complete a single professional module in one of the courses or work on site for the entire period of study. In addition, they will have the opportunity to find employment at a partner enterprise. In this case, you can complete your studies according to an individual schedule.

    Practical classes will be conducted by competent and experienced master teachers, as well as representatives of partner employers. In total, 42 masters of industrial training from Moscow colleges and 40 current employees of industrial enterprises of the capital will be able to teach at the site.

    A center of professional competencies has been created on the basis of the site. Here they will be engaged in updating educational programs taking into account the prospective development of science and production technologies, forecasting the emergence of new competencies based on the transformation of production and including them in training programs, as well as methodological support for industrial training masters and improving their pedagogical and professional skills. Cooperation with the country’s leading engineering universities, such as the Moscow State Technological University (MSTU) “Stankin” and the Moscow State Technical University named after N.E. Bauman, will help solve these problems.

    In addition, an entrance control of students’ readiness to master programs at the Rudnevo educational platform is provided. For this purpose, the center of professional competencies will interact with partner colleges, providing them with methodological and consulting support.

    Each student has an individual work place on the site. The logistics of the classrooms are well thought out: for example, there are areas for project and group work. Modern public spaces will make extracurricular time comfortable.

    In the coworking space, students can work on projects, discuss ideas, and analyze situations they have considered in class. The assembly hall is designed for conferences and business events.

    The college has a 147-seat canteen where students on a budget are provided with free hot meals. On the third floor there is a cafe whose products are produced and sold by students of Moscow food colleges.

    In addition to the practical training platform for colleges, the Moscow Government, together with MSTU Stankin, is implementing a project within the framework of which the first competence center for the machine tool industry in the country is being created in Rudnev.

    The 19.5 thousand square meter building will house a tool and equipment testing center, an expert analysis center, a design bureau, pilot production, a reverse engineering center, and a numerical control center.

    The center will be able to train and practice about a thousand students per year. The site also organizes pilot and small-scale production of specialized products.

    On the industrial policy of the city of Moscow

    Modern Moscow is the largest industrial and scientific-engineering center of Russia. There are more than 4.5 thousand industrial enterprises in the capital, employing more than 750 thousand people.

    Every year, 150 new technology companies open in Moscow and dozens of investment projects are implemented, providing the city with additional jobs. By 2030, the number of industrial production facilities will increase to 5.5 thousand, and their employees – to 850 thousand. The total area of industrial infrastructure will grow from 14 million square meters to 21 million.

    The manufacturing industry is the driving force behind Moscow’s economic development.

    “I will say about industry that in general it is actively developing. Over the past five years, I reported, the manufacturing industry has doubled,” said Sergei Sobyanin.

    By the end of 2024, private and public investment will amount to 310 billion rubles. According to forecasts, by 2030 they will grow by 620 billion rubles – to 930 billion rubles.

    One of the effective measures to support the city is the localization of industrial enterprises in the special economic zone “Technopolis Moscow”. This is the center for the development of the capital’s advanced high-tech industry, which includes six sites with a total area of more than 280 hectares. More than 1.5 million square meters of industrial and public-business areas have been built here. The plan is to increase this figure to 3.8 million square meters by 2030.

    Today, there are more than 220 enterprises operating in Technopolis Moscow, 112 of which have resident status and receive tax preferences. Residents are exempt from paying property, land and transport taxes for 10 years, and the income tax rate for them is only two percent instead of 20.

    During the operation of the special economic zone, companies invested about 330 billion rubles in the development of their high-tech production facilities and created 22 thousand jobs. The volume of investments from the Moscow budget amounted to almost 135 billion rubles.

    Innovative developments of enterprises can be applied in various fields – from microelectronics to medicine and space. Among them are optical multiplexers, portable ultrasound machines, mobile ventilator complexes, multifunctional amphibious robots designed for reconnaissance and liquidation of consequences of accidents at various flooded objects, nuclear power plants and mines.

    Another tool for developing Moscow industry is clustering. By 2030, more than 13 inter-industry clusters will operate in Moscow – this is over seven million square meters of production space and 100 thousand jobs.

    Thus, one of the largest pharmaceutical clusters in the country, which includes 13 companies, is successfully operating at the Alabushevo site of the Technopolis Moscow special economic zone. A photonics and microelectronics cluster has also opened there, with 61 companies participating. Total investments in this site amounted to 137.9 billion rubles, of which 7.9 billion rubles were invested by the Moscow Government. Total investments will grow to 353 billion rubles by 2030.

    Two years ago, the Moscow cluster of electric vehicle manufacturing began its work. It included 64 companies, most of which receive benefits from the city. In particular, they are exempt from paying property, land and transport taxes.

    One of the important projects is the construction of the first gigafactory in Russia for the production of batteries. The city has signed an offset contract for the supply of batteries for public electric transport. The total purchase amount will be 172 billion rubles over six years. The enterprise will produce 50 thousand batteries per year, which will cover about 40 percent of the needs of the Russian market. The opening of the production will create 900 new jobs. The total investment in the project is 52 billion rubles, of which 25 billion rubles were allocated by the Moscow Government, and 27 billion are private funds.

    On behalf of the President of the Russian Federation Vladimir Putin, a new industrial park was opened in Rudnevo in 2023. Federal Center for Unmanned Aircraft Systems. Today it unites 11 leading developers and manufacturers of unmanned aircraft systems. The enterprises have created more than 2.8 thousand jobs. Investments in the industrial park “Rudnevo” amounted to 97 billion rubles, of which 20 billion rubles are private funds, and 77 billion rubles were invested by the Government of Moscow. By 2030, a total of 490 billion rubles will be invested.

    Work is currently underway to form food and construction clusters in TiNAO.

    The food cluster will build over 800 thousand square meters of industrial space and create 11.4 thousand jobs. Private investments will reach almost 90 billion rubles.

    The opening of the construction cluster will create 30 thousand jobs. More than 1.6 million square meters of industrial real estate will be built within its boundaries. Private investments will amount to almost 145 billion rubles.

    In the capital it is being created shipyard for the production of electric ships. Its capacity will occupy 23 thousand square meters. Commissioning is scheduled for the first quarter of 2025. The enterprise will provide more than 500 new high-tech jobs. Investments from the Moscow Government amount to more than 4.6 billion rubles.

    In addition, two new large industrial clusters will appear in TiNAO – automobile manufacturing and eco-industrial. In total, almost 23 thousand highly qualified jobs will be created there.

    Sobyanin named innovative clusters that will be created in New Moscow

    A cluster of innovative technologies in the field of construction is being created on the basis of OOO “Innovative Technology Plant – Monarch”. Last year, the first stage was put into operation – this is an experimental plant with an area of 26.6 thousand square meters. The volume of investments amounted to 3.4 billion rubles. Today, 500 people work here.

    A glass cluster is also being built in TiNAO. 120 hectares will be allocated for it for facilities with a total area of 840 thousand square meters. 9.6 thousand jobs will appear here. Investments will exceed 105 billion rubles. The implementation of the project will allow to cover the need for special glass, including medical glass.

    The elevator construction industry is quite promising for investment. The departure of foreign companies from the domestic market opens up new opportunities for capital enterprises to occupy vacant niches. Thus, on the basis of the Karacharovsky Mechanical Plant, a cluster of elevator construction and vertical transport of Moscow is being formed, which will accelerate the development and localization of vertical transport production in Russia.

    The National Space Center is being built on the territory of the Khrunichev State Research and Production Space Center. This is a large-scale project implemented jointly with Roscosmos. According to preliminary estimates, about 27 thousand jobs will be created on the site.

    Moscow has historically had a strong scientific base. Today, in the R sphere

    There are 735 higher education institutions (excluding branches) in Russia. At the same time, every fifth university is located in Moscow, which confirms the presence of significant human resources potential in the capital and the high level of training of students for work in high-tech enterprises.

    Today in Moscow, specialists in engineering and technical fields are trained at the Bauman Moscow State Technical University, the Stankin Moscow State Technological University, the Moscow Institute of Physics and Technology, the Lomonosov Moscow State University, the National Research Nuclear University MEPhI, the MISiS University of Science and Technology and other leading universities.

    In order to increase the number of qualified personnel annually graduating for the industrial sector, the Moscow Government is modernizing the system of secondary vocational education and implementing accelerated training of engineering personnel.

    Industrial Park “Rudnevo”

    “Rudnevo” is an industrial park within the SEZ “Technopolis Moscow”, built in the east of the city in record time to accommodate critically important production. This is an example of a modern high-tech industrial park, where it is convenient to work, study, create production and educational clusters.

    Construction work in Rudnev began at the end of 2020. During the construction of production buildings, domestic materials were used (for a number of items, import substitution was 100%) and modern technologies, which made it possible to reduce construction time by 35-50 percent, and the cost of work by 10-15 percent.

    Currently, 21 production buildings with a total area of 377 thousand square meters have been erected, including a pilot production facility and a design bureau. Additional production buildings are in the active stage of construction, as well as a social infrastructure building, which will house laboratories, office space, a training center and other social facilities for company employees.

    In the future, 21 thousand highly qualified jobs will be created at the enterprises in Rudnev, primarily for residents of the rapidly developing Moscow districts of Kosino-Ukhtomsky, Vykhino-Zhulebino and Nekrasovka, as well as the urban district of Lyubertsy in the Moscow region.

    Thanks to the SEZ regime, companies – residents of Rudnev receive significant tax benefits. In particular, they are exempt from property, transport and land taxes. The income tax rate for them is only two percent. Residents have a free customs zone regime and land lease benefits.

    In addition to the Federal Center for Unmanned Aircraft Systems, the Rudnevo Industrial Park also houses a production building for the Almaz-Antey Air Defense Concern and an industrial complex for PJSC Yakovlev, which currently produces wing kits for the MS-21 medium-range aircraft.

    In addition, enterprises producing ATMs, electrical capacitors, absorbent linen, equipment for industrial waste sorting, and others have set up their production facilities in Rudnev.

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

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

    https://vvv.mos.ru/major/themes/11847050/

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

    MIL OSI Russia News

  • MIL-OSI USA: UConn’s Dr. Andrew Arnold Awarded Highest Honor of The American Society for Bone and Mineral Research

    Source: US State of Connecticut

    The William F. Neuman Award, the oldest and most prestigious honor conferred by the ASBMR, recognizes Dr. Andrew Arnold for his outstanding and major scientific contributions in the area of bone and mineral research and for contributions to associates and trainees in teaching, research, and administration.

    Dr. Andrew Arnold accepting the highest honor of ASBMR from its President Laura Calvi, MD.

    Arnold accepted the Society’s highest honor during its late September ASBMR 2024 Annual Meeting in Toronto.

    Arnold is a pioneer in studying endocrine tumors and hyperparathyroidism. Arnold’s achievements include discovery of cyclin D1, the first known parathyroid oncogene and fundamental cell cycle regulator.

    The award is named for William F. Neuman, Ph.D., a world-renowned scientist in the field of mineral metabolism. Neuman’s seminal work on bone-seeking isotopes as part of the Manhattan Project was followed by major works in the chemistry of mineral and matrix, the function of bone cells, the metabolism of parathyroid hormone, and the concept of bone membrane.

    Arnold shared, “I would like to express my deepest gratitude to the ASBMR. Receiving the William F. Neuman Award is uniquely meaningful, coming from my academic home society and the organization most familiar with the contributions of our group.”

    Arnold currently serves UConn’s medical school as the Murray-Heilig Chair in Molecular Medicine, professor of Medicine and Genetics & Genome Sciences, and chief of the Division of Endocrinology & Metabolism. He is also director of the Center for Molecular Oncology, chief academic officer for the Carole and Ray Neag Comprehensive Cancer Center, and also directs the Office of Physician-Scientist Career Development.

    He attended Brown University and Harvard Medical School, trained in internal medicine at University of Chicago followed by fellowships in molecular oncology at NIH and endocrinology at Massachusetts General Hospital. On the faculty of Harvard Medical School and MGH he led the Laboratory of Endocrine Oncology, then moved to UConn School of Medicine.

    In addition to the William F. Neuman Award, Arnold’s honors include the ASBMR’s Fuller Albright Award and Louis Avioli Founders Award, the Gerald Aurbach Award of the Endocrine Society, the International Medal of the Society for Endocrinology, and the Outstanding Investigator Award of the American Federation for Medical Research.

    “Space prevents me from individually acknowledging most of the wonderful friends, colleagues, collaborators who have profoundly impacted the achievements recognized here, been tremendously supportive, and have made working in our field so enjoyable,” said Arnold. “Certainly among them are Henry Kronenberg, Sundeep Khosla, John Eisman, John Bilezikian, John Potts, Fred Kaplan, Raj Thakker; plus, in memory, Stan Korsmeyer, Larry Raisz and Arthur Broadus. Hank Kronenberg’s role is outsized – my appreciation for his mentorship, scientific insights, and decades-long friendship knows no bounds – I cannot thank him enough. Past and present members of my laboratory group and collaborating investigators, especially Jessica Costa, absolutely share in this recognition, and special thanks and love to my family.”

    MIL OSI USA News

  • MIL-Evening Report: OECD comparisons reveal an unflattering picture of inequality in NZ – could that change?

    Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Colin Campbell-Hunt, Emeritus Professor in Business, University of Otago

    Getty Images

    Recent research showing the richest New Zealanders pay less tax than their counterparts in nine similar OECD countries raises, yet again, serious questions about wealth, equality and fairness.

    How unequal is the distribution of income in New Zealand? How do we compare with some of the countries we might benchmark against? And, if we don’t like what we see, can we change it?

    The metric most widely used by economists to measure inequality in incomes is called the Gini coefficient (named after the Italian statistician Corrado Gini who developed it).

    It brings together income data across all households, typically divided into groupings of 10% or 20% of the total. When there is no inequality of incomes between groups, Gini equals zero. When the top group captures all income, Gini equals 1.

    Measuring inequality

    The graph below shows Gini coefficients, before taxes and welfare payments (known as “transfers”), for all 37 countries in the OECD in 2019 (before the COVID pandemic disrupted household surveys). Ginis are ranked left to right, from least to most unequal.



    The Gini before taxes and transfers is a measure of the inequality produced by the structures of a country’s economy: the way value chains operate, the markets for products and services, the scarcity of certain skills, rates of unionisation, and so on.

    This gives us a measure of structural inequalities in a country. Governments, however, use taxes and transfers to shift income between households. They take taxes from some and boost incomes of the more disadvantaged.

    Ginis of incomes after taxes and transfers give us a measure of how well members of a society can support similar standards of living. They are shown in the following graph, again from least to most unequal. These give us a measure of social inequalities.



    Focusing just on social inequality, it is no surprise Scandinavian countries are among the least unequal, as well as Canada and Ireland. Neither is it surprising the UK and US approach the highest levels of social inequality in the OECD.

    Inequalities in Australia and New Zealand lie between these, but further from the Scandinavians and closer to the Anglo-Americans.

    Social inequality in NZ

    When we look at the difference between structural and social inequalities, we can see the extent to which taxes and transfers – government redistribution of income – reduce inequality.

    As we can see, New Zealand’s structural inequality, shaped by the economic reforms of the mid-1980s, is middling by comparison to other OECD countries.

    But New Zealand’s social inequality lies near the bottom third of OECD measures. A halving of top income tax rates in the mid-1980s and the rollback of the welfare state in the 1990s (after then finance minister Ruth Richardson’s 1991 “mother of all budgets”) significantly contributed to this.

    The downward columns in the following graph show the effect of government redistributive measures, ranked from most to least active. The result of these government redistributions in New Zealand is weaker even than in the laissez-faire economies of the United Kingdom and United States.



    Where does NZ sit?

    How do New Zealand’s inequalities compare with countries we might choose to benchmark against?

    Below, the Scandinavian countries famous for their egalitarian social systems are shown in orange. In green are countries that tolerate slightly higher social inequality: Sweden, Canada and Ireland.

    And the UK and US – exemplars of free-market capitalism that were the models for New Zealand’s reforms of the mid-1980s – are highlighted in grey.



    Reducing inequality

    How hard would it be to change? Could New Zealand, for example, reduce its level of social inequality to match Canada? Absolutely, yes.

    Other OECD data show Canada significantly cut its inequalities between 2010 and 2019. The country moved from a position identical to Luxembourg (haven for Europe’s wealthy) to be roughly level with Sweden.

    To match Canada’s level now, New Zealand would need to reduce structural inequalities further, or redistribute about as much as Norway and Denmark do. It can be done, in other words.

    Indeed, Finland shows government redistributions can transform some of the worst levels of structural inequality to produce outcomes comparable to other Scandinavian countries.

    New Zealand can aspire to goals for social equality matching those in the upper half of OECD countries. Beyond revisions to taxation and transfers, inequalities in health and education would also need to come down to reduce the social and economic costs of poverty and disadvantage that should bring shame to us all.


    The author acknowledges the contribution of data provided by Max Rashbrooke.


    Colin Campbell-Hunt 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. OECD comparisons reveal an unflattering picture of inequality in NZ – could that change? – https://theconversation.com/oecd-comparisons-reveal-an-unflattering-picture-of-inequality-in-nz-could-that-change-239306

    MIL OSI AnalysisEveningReport.nz

  • MIL-Evening Report: How can we improve public health communication for the next pandemic? Tackling distrust and misinformation is key

    Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Shauna Hurley, PhD candidate, School of Public Health, Monash University

    Pexels/The Conversation

    There’s a common thread linking our experience of pandemics over the past 700 years. From the black death in the 14th century to COVID in the 21st, public health authorities have put emergency measures such as isolation and quarantine in place to stop infectious diseases spreading.

    As we know from COVID, these measures upend lives in an effort to save them. In both the recent and distant past they’ve also given rise to collective unrest, confusion and resistance.

    So after all this time, what do we know about the role public health communication plays in helping people understand and adhere to protective measures in a crisis? And more importantly, in an age of misinformation and distrust, how can we improve public health messaging for any future pandemics?

    Last year, we published a Cochrane review exploring the global evidence on public health communication during COVID and other infectious disease outbreaks including SARS, MERS, influenza and Ebola. Here’s a snapshot of what we found.




    Read more:
    Why are we seeing more pandemics? Our impact on the planet has a lot to do with it


    The importance of public trust

    A key theme emerging in analysis of the COVID pandemic globally is public trust – or lack thereof – in governments, public institutions and science.

    Mounting evidence suggests levels of trust in government were directly proportional to fewer COVID infections and higher vaccination rates across the world. It was a crucial factor in people’s willingness to follow public health directives, and is now a key focus for future pandemic preparedness.

    Here in Australia, public trust in governments and health authorities steadily eroded over time.

    Initial information from governments and health authorities about the unfolding COVID crisis, personal risk and mandated protective measures was generally clear and consistent across the country. The establishment of the National Cabinet in 2020 signalled a commitment from state, territory and federal governments to consensus-based policy and public health messaging.

    During this early phase of relative unity, Australians reported higher levels of belonging and trust in government.

    But as the pandemic wore on, public trust and confidence fell on the back of conflicting state-federal pandemic strategies, blame games and the confusing fragmentation of public health messaging. The divergence between lockdown policies and public health messaging adopted by Victoria and New South Wales is one example, but there are plenty of others.

    When state, territory and federal governments have conflicting policies on protective measures, people are easily confused, lose trust and become harder to engage with or persuade. Many tune out from partisan politics. Adherence to mandated public health measures falls.

    Our research found clarity and consistency of information were key features of effective public health communication throughout the COVID pandemic.

    We also found public health communication is most effective when authorities work in partnership with different target audiences. In Victoria, the case brought against the state government for the snap public housing tower lockdowns is a cautionary tale underscoring how essential considered, tailored and two-way communication is with diverse communities.




    Read more:
    What pathogen might spark the next pandemic? How scientists are preparing for ‘disease X’


    Countering misinformation

    Misinformation is not a new problem, but has been supercharged by the advent of social media.

    The much-touted “miracle” drug ivermectin typifies the extraordinary traction unproven treatments gained locally and globally. Ivermectin is an anti-parasitic drug, lacking evidence for viruses like COVID.

    Australia’s drug regulator was forced to ban ivermectin presciptions for anything other than its intended use after a sharp increase in people seeking the drug sparked national shortages. Hospitals also reported patients overdosing on ivermectin and cocktails of COVID “cures” promoted online.

    The Lancet Commission on lessons from the COVID pandemic has called for a coordinated international response to countering misinformation.

    As part of this, it has called for more accessible, accurate information and investment in scientific literacy to protect against misinformation, including that shared across social media platforms. The World Health Organization is developing resources and recommendations for health authorities to address this “infodemic”.

    National efforts to directly tackle misinformation are vital, in combination with concerted efforts to raise health literacy. The Australian Medical Association has called on the federal government to invest in long-term online advertising to counter health misinformation and boost health literacy.

    People of all ages need to be equipped to think critically about who and where their health information comes from. With the rise of AI, this is an increasingly urgent priority.

    Many people turned to unproven treatments for COVID.
    Alina Kruk/Shutterstock

    Looking ahead

    Australian health ministers recently reaffirmed their commitment to the new Australian Centre for Disease Control (CDC).

    From a science communications perspective, the Australian CDC could provide an independent voice of evidence and consensus-based information. This is exactly what’s needed during a pandemic. But full details about the CDC’s funding and remit have been the subject of some conjecture.

    Many of our key findings on effective public health communication during COVID are not new or surprising. They reinforce what we know works from previous disease outbreaks across different places and points in time: tailored, timely, clear, consistent and accurate information.

    The rapid rise, reach and influence of misinformation and distrust in public authorities bring a new level of complexity to this picture. Countering both must become a central focus of all public health crisis communication, now and in the future.

    This article is part of a series on the next pandemic.

    Rebecca Ryan receives funding from the National Health and Medical Research Council through funding to Australian Cochrane entities, and was previously commissioned by the World Health Organization to undertake a rapid evidence review on communication for COVID-19 prevention and control (2020).

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

    ref. How can we improve public health communication for the next pandemic? Tackling distrust and misinformation is key – https://theconversation.com/how-can-we-improve-public-health-communication-for-the-next-pandemic-tackling-distrust-and-misinformation-is-key-226718

    MIL OSI AnalysisEveningReport.nz

  • MIL-Evening Report: Return-to-office mandates may not be the solution to downtown struggles that Canadian cities are banking on

    Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Alexander Wray, PhD Candidate in Geography, Western University

    In recent months, many Canadian employers in both the public and private sectors have implemented return-to-office mandates, requiring workers that transitioned to remote or hybrid work during the COVID-19 pandemic to work in-person again.

    Employers are justifying these mandates by arguing they improve productivity, build more collaborative teams and improve mentorship for junior employees.

    Employers are not the only group ecstatic about these mandates. Municipalities and business owners are also expressing hope that the presence of office workers will spin off into greater consumer spending at restaurants and other businesses near office buildings. The expectation is that office workers will once again start spending money on coffee, lunch or after-work beverages.

    In 2022, the mayor of Ottawa partially blamed the downtown core’s economic struggles on the fact that federal public service workers were still largely working remotely. Federal workers have since been mandated to return to work in-person three days a week in late fall.

    The Canadian Federation of Independent Business similarly criticized the slow return to offices as a leading factor behind why small and medium-size businesses, especially restaurants and bars, are facing challenges in downtown areas.

    Insight into restaurant success

    During the pandemic, there were predictions that more than half of Canada’s independent restaurants would fail as part of their customer base — office workers — shifted to working from home.

    Our recent study investigated which operational, demographic and land use factors affected restaurant survival during the first year of the pandemic in London, Ont.

    We found no significant differences between restaurants that failed and restaurants that survived based on proximity to office uses. Instead, operational decisions made by restaurants individually were much more predictive of their survival than any geographic factor, including the presence of offices.

    Restaurants are seen along Richmond Street in downtown London, Ontario, in June 2021.
    (Alexander Wray), CC BY-NC-SA

    We found that restaurants located in areas receiving more CERB (Canadian Emergency Response Benefit) payments, and with a higher density of entertainment venues around them, were less likely to survive.

    Restaurants that adapted by offering pickup and delivery options were more likely to survive, though only for those that did their own delivery in-house rather than relying on platforms like UberEats and SkipTheDishes. Restaurants that had drive-thrus, held liquor licenses, or had been established for more than five years were more likely to survive. These older, more established restaurants were likely more resilient because of financial stability and customer loyalty.

    Table-service restaurants fared better than fast food outlets, likely because they could offer large patio dining spaces during the summer. Restaurants with liquor licenses substantially benefited, especially after a regulatory change by the Ontario government that allowed alcohol sales with takeout and delivery — a first for the province.

    In short, restaurant success was driven more by individual business decisions rather than being in a specific location. People working remotely instead of in the office did not significantly affect restaurant survival during the first year of the pandemic.

    Downtown struggles

    As Canadian downtowns look to recover, many face ongoing challenges. Activity levels are down by about 20 per cent from pre-pandemic levels in many places, lagging behind many similarly sized downtowns in the United States.

    This downturn has been partially attributed to a combination of higher office building vacancies and fewer workers downtown. For the first time, downtown office vacancy rates have exceeded suburban rates in the Greater Toronto Area. There has also been tremendous housing growth within many downtown cores.

    At the same time, downtowns have become a highly visible focal point of Canada’s growing addictions, mental health and housing crises. The pandemic fully revealed the deeper social, economic and health challenges happening in Canadian society.

    While violent incidents are rare, the social incivilities and disorder on display — public urination and defecation, open drug use, visible tents and property crime — contributes to a perception that Canadian downtowns are unsafe. This perception, whether accurate or not, has an impact on the willingness of people to engage with their downtowns.

    A way forward

    The damage to the reputation of Canada’s downtowns has been done. Downtown London now has the highest office vacancy rate in the country. The Workplace Safety Insurance Board of Ontario, for instance, recently chose to consolidate its offices in the outskirts of London, rather than downtown.

    Many people now elect to spend their time and money in areas that have embraced the “experience economy.” These are places that provide highly manicured entertainment and shopping destinations, with restaurants being the bedrock of enabling high quality experiences in these areas.

    Foot traffic is at an all-time high in suburban shopping centres. The downtowns of cities that are widely known as global tourist destinations — Las Vegas, Miami and Nashville — have activity levels close to or higher than their pre-pandemic levels.

    These are places that are developing highly attractive economies that provide people with the safe, fun and exciting experiences they are looking for locally and internationally. Instead of trying to force unwilling workers back to the office, Canadian cities should instead focus on developing downtowns that people genuinely want to visit and experience.

    One potential way to do this is to provide wrap-around support services and direct pathways to stable housing across the entire community, as the City of London has done. By spreading care and outreach services across the entire city, rather than concentrating them exclusively in downtown areas, the negative effects from Canada’s homelessness crisis can be reduced on urban cores.

    This type of strategy will direct those who need help away from downtowns, and may even permanently lift them out of poverty. In turn, Canadian downtowns can return to being places for everyone to shop, eat, relax, and work in comfort.

    Alexander Wray is President of the Town and Gown Association of Ontario, and a Board Member of Mainstreet London.

    Jamie Seabrook, Jason Gilliland, and Sean Doherty 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. Return-to-office mandates may not be the solution to downtown struggles that Canadian cities are banking on – https://theconversation.com/return-to-office-mandates-may-not-be-the-solution-to-downtown-struggles-that-canadian-cities-are-banking-on-239682

    MIL OSI AnalysisEveningReport.nz

  • MIL-Evening Report: How to help your child return to school after a long illness, new diagnosis or an accident

    Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Sarah Jefferson, Senior Lecturer in Education, Edith Cowan University

    It is very common for children to have a day or two away from school due to illness. But children can also miss much longer periods of schooling if they have a serious illness or injury.

    This could be a severe episode of mental illness, a diagnosis of Type 1 diabetes or in my family’s case, our youngest child being hit by a car at a pedestrian crossing, requiring months of rehab.

    After the initial shock, treatment and recovery, families then need to navigate a complex return to school – to make things as normal as possible for the student while handling their ongoing medical needs.

    How can families support their child?

    How many students are missing school?

    There are many reasons why children may need to have a significant break from school.

    At least one in every ten children under the age of 14 live with a chronic health condition.

    These conditions, which can include heart disease, diabetes and asthma, mental illness and cancers can lead to weeks or months in hospital.

    A 2018 study found 70,000 Australians under 16 are also hospitalised with a serious injury each year.

    Students can end up missing a significant amount of school due to injury or chronic illness.
    moonmovie/Shutterstock

    Come back with a plan

    We know going to school is central to children’s social and emotional wellbeing, as well as their academic progress. So getting back to school is a key part of a student’s ongoing health and wellbeing.

    The Royal Children’s Hospital Melbourne warns children can get mentally and physically tired after a long or serious illness.

    So they recommended returning to school gradually. Students may just go for half days or for a few hours initially.

    To make this as smooth as possible, parents or caregivers should meet with the school before you hope to return. This meeting should include the student if possible, relevant teachers (such as class teachers and year-level coordinators) and school nurse.

    Not all schools have a dedicated nurse. But if there is one available, they can play an important liaison role and manage a child’s medications or situation at school. If there is no nurse, make sure you include the school’s administration team.

    The meeting with the school should make a clear plan around what new support the student needs and how they will receive this. They may need changes to their uniform, timetable or where they physically go in the school. Students may also need extra time to do work, extra academic help and extra breaks.

    Families may also want to schedule regular catch-ups with the school.

    Students may not initially be able to return to school full time.
    engagestock/Shutterstock

    How is the student feeling?

    Children can be worried about not fitting in, especially if something significant has happened to them that makes them feel different from their peers. They may not want a huge fuss when they come back.

    Arranging time to talk to or see friends before they come back can help ease a student into their new routine.

    Depending on the situation, you could enlist a trusted buddy to help with bags or walk a bit more slowly with them between classes.

    Or students may get special permission to leave class a bit early to avoid crowds, or to be able to go and see the nurse without asking the teacher each time and drawing attention to themselves.

    As your child returns, make sure the focus is not just on catching up academically but catching up with friends as well. If their hours are reduced at school, try and allow for social time (such as including recess or lunch) as well as lessons.

    Your child will likely be dealing with a lot, both mentally and physically. So keep talking to them as much as possible about how they are feeling and going as they return.

    Things may have changed for them (and for you), but with time and support, school can feel like a normal part of life again.

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

    ref. How to help your child return to school after a long illness, new diagnosis or an accident – https://theconversation.com/how-to-help-your-child-return-to-school-after-a-long-illness-new-diagnosis-or-an-accident-240012

    MIL OSI AnalysisEveningReport.nz

  • MIL-OSI USA: Research of Postdoctoral Fellows Celebrated at UConn Health

    Source: US State of Connecticut

    The 8th Annual Postdoc Research Day (PDRD) took place on September 19 at the Academic Rotunda, where researchers from UConn Health and The Jackson Laboratory for Genomic Medicine came together to share their research. This half-day event featured oral and poster presentations by the postdocs, as well as a keynote address.

    PDRD is an annual event to celebrate postdoc research. The event attracted 70 attendees, including faculty, staff, graduate students, and postdocs.

    “PDRD is an opportunity for the UConn Health and Jackson Lab communities to come together and learn about all the great research our postdocs are doing, while giving the postdocs a highly visible platform to introduce themselves to everyone,” said UConn Health Director of Postdoctoral Affairs Dr. Chris Heinen.

    The afternoon event began with a warm welcome from Dr. Heinen who highlighted the significant role of postdocs in building a strong and collaborative research community.

    Following this, nineteen postdocs presented research talks as part of the annual Speak4Science competition, each with four minutes and one slide to describe the significance of their research question. Three awards were given to the best research presentations: Drs. Anirudhya Lahiri, Moriah Turcotte, and Lisa Wren.

    Keynote Speaker Dr. Brian Coombes. (Photo provided by Sama Abdulmalik)

    “It’s exciting to hear about each other’s research,” shared Sama Abdulmalik, a member of the UConn Health and Jackson Laboratory PostDoctoral Association (UJPDA).

    Dr. Brian Coombes, a distinguished professor and chair in the Department of Biochemistry and Biomedical Sciences at McMaster University, Hamilton, Ontario, served as the event’s keynote speaker and was introduced by by UJPDA member Patience Shumba. Coombes’ research focuses on enteric bacteria associated with acute and chronic human diseases, including Crohn’s disease.

    The final event of the day was a reception that combined poster presentations and networking opportunities. Researchers showcased their latest findings, sparking informative discussions and conversations.

    Postdoc Research Day Organizing Committee. From the left, top:
    Drs. Alexander Calderon, Ying Tang, Anvar Sariev, Sama Abdulmalik, Patience Shumba, Chrysoula Argyrou & Chris Heinen (not shown: Zeynep Altunay).

    Special thanks to the PDRD’s organizing committee, Director of Postdoctoral Affairs, Chris HeinenSama Abdulmalik (UCH), Zeynep Altunay (UCH), Chrysoula Argyrou (UCH), Alexander Calderon (JAX), Anvar Sariev (UCH), Patience Shumba (UCH), Ying Tang (UCH), as well as Stephanie Holden (UCH) and Jane Tran Sills (UCH) and Sarah Wojiski (JAX), Dawn Traficante (JAX) and Rowena Grainger (JAX), who developed a successful event.

    Thanks to everyone who participated in making this research day a great success.

    Speak4Science Short Talk Awards included:

    • Anirudhya Lahiri, Department of Neuroscience, UConn Health
      Psychosine alters astrocyte secretome
    • Moriah Turcotte, Calhoun Cardiology Center, UConn Health
      β-adrenergic receptors in heart disease
    • Lisa Wren, The Jackson Laboratory for Genomic Medicine
      Base editing in dilated cardiomyopathy
    Keynote Speaker, Dr. Brian Coombes and Director of Postdoctoral Affairs, Dr. Chris Heinen.(Photo provided by Sama Abdulmalik)

    MIL OSI USA News

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Ministry of Education in collaboration with NSS organises Swachhata Campaign under theme “Swabhav Swachhata, Sanskaar Swachhata ”at Sri Venkateswara College, University of Delhi

    Source: Government of India

    Posted On: 02 OCT 2024 4:29PM by PIB Delhi

    Shri K. Sanjay Murthy, Secretary, Department of Higher Education (DoHE), Ministry of Education, participated in a Swachhata Campaign under the theme of Swabhav Swachhata, Sanskaar Swachhata commemorating the birth anniversary of Mahatma Gandhi and Shri Lal Bahadur Shastri at the Sri Venkateswara College (SVC), University of Delhi, today. The Ministry of Education organised the event in collaboration with the National Service Scheme (NSS).

    Additional Secretary, DoHE, Shri Sunil Kumar Barnwal; Joint Secretary (DoHE) Smt. Neeta Prasad; Joint Secretary (DoHE), Shri Ekram Rizvi; Joint Secretary (DoHE), Smt. Rina Sonowal Kouli; Shri Chaitanya Prasad, officials of the Ministry along with Prof. V Ravi, Principal, SVC; Prof. K Chandramani, Vice-Principal, SVC and other faculty members were also present at the event.

    Shri K. Sanjay Murthy and other dignitaries planted five trees under the ‘Ek Ped Maa Ke Naam’ Campaign at the college premises. They also participated in cleaning a black spot/cleanliness target unit (CTU) near the Satyaniketan bus stand near the college. NSS members, NSS volunteers of the college, RWA representatives, social workers and MCD staff joined them in thoroughly cleaning the place.

    The Secretary urged the locals to maintain the cleanliness of the place in future and also ensured the help of the College in this regard if needed. He also motivated the students to participate in the cleanliness drive in the future. He also answered their queries regarding the National Education Policy 2020. The students shared their experiences and teaching while working in the NSS. 

    *****

    SS/AK

    (Release ID: 2061106) Visitor Counter : 46

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: President of India to visit Rajasthan from October 3 to 4

    Source: Government of India

    Posted On: 02 OCT 2024 6:27PM by PIB Delhi

    The President of India, Smt Droupadi Murmu will visit Rajasthan from October 3 to 4, 2024. 

     On October 3, the President will grace the 32nd convocation of Mohanlal Sukhadia University at Udaipur. 

    On October 4, the President will grace the Global Summit on the theme ‘Spirituality for Clean and Healthy Society’, being organised by the Prajapita Brahma Kumaris Ishwariya Vishwa Vidyalaya at Mount Abu. On the same day, she will also grace the Adi Gaurav Samman Samaroh, being organised by the Government of Rajasthan, at Mangarh Dham, Banswara.  

    ***

    MJPS/SR

    (Release ID: 2061175) Visitor Counter : 71

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News

  • MIL-OSI USA: With uptick in traffic fatalities, California makes record investment in enforcement and road safety projects

    Source: US State of California 2

    Oct 2, 2024

    What you need to know: California is investing record amounts of federal funding and implementing new measures to save lives following an increase in traffic fatalities.

    SACRAMENTO – As states across the nation, including California, continue to see an increase in traffic-related deaths, Governor Gavin Newsom today announced new record investments in transportation safety, education and enforcement programs. The record funding complements a slate of new safety measures recently signed by the Governor.

    The California Office of Traffic Safety (OTS) is awarding a record $149 million in federal funding for 497 grants that expand safe biking and walking options and provide critical education and enforcement programs that will make roads safer throughout the state. This is the third consecutive year of historic funding, exceeding last year’s amount by $21 million. 

    Roughly 12 people are killed on California roadways every day. Thanks to the help of the Biden-Harris Administration, we’re doing something about it – surging record investments to communities across the state for enforcement and safety improvements and programs. This funding builds on action we recently took with the legislature to protect Californians on our roads and highways. 

    Governor Gavin Newsom

    Last week, Governor Newsom announced he signed legislation allowing Malibu to add new speed cameras to a stretch of the Pacific Coast Highway. He also signed legislation setting long-term goals for safer and more inclusive transportation infrastructure, as well as new accountability measures.

    The OTS funds hundreds of projects throughout the state addressing alcohol and drug-impaired driving, distracted driving, seat belts and child safety seats, bicycle and pedestrian safety, emergency medical services, police traffic services and traffic records. 

    The investments are part of Governor Newsom’s infrastructure agenda to build more, faster. See projects in your community at build.ca.gov.

    “The OTS is supporting the biggest investments in traffic safety programs since the 1960s,” said OTS Director Barbara Rooney. “The once-in-a-generation funding will benefit communities across California as we continue to forge a path toward our goal of zero deaths and serious injuries on our roads with the immediate action, urgency and undivided attention traffic safety deserves.” 

    Among the projects funded today:

    • Approximately $51 million for law enforcement agencies: More than 200 law enforcement agencies are receiving grants to conduct equitable enforcement targeting the most dangerous driving behaviors such as speeding, distracted and impaired driving, as well as support education programs focused on bicycle and pedestrian safety.
    • Approximately $13 million for Bicycle and Pedestrian Safety Programs: Funding for bicycle and pedestrian safety programs increased by 12% from the previous grant cycle. The programs fund walking and biking safety assessments and trainings to implement infrastructure solutions that improve active transportation, including a pilot speed limit setting and technical assistance program that looks at promising speed management policies and practices to make roads more bicycle and pedestrian friendly.
    • Approximately $2.74 million for Emergency Medical Services: Funds extrication equipment, also known as the “Jaws of Life,” for three dozen fire departments, a nearly 40% increase in funding from the previous grant cycle. Research shows that approximately 42% of fatal crash victims were alive immediately following the crash. Increased investments in approaches to address post-crash care also include supporting the development and use of the Los Angeles County Emergency Medical Services Agency’s trauma training mobile application used to help treat victims at the crash site. 
    • $350,000 for University of California, Berkeley Safe Transportation Research and Education Center (SafeTREC): Funds the development of an autonomous vehicle crash data dashboard and mapping system using crash and disengagement records from the Department of Motor Vehicles, as well as a public survey to understand California residents’ comfort with new emerging vehicle technology. 
    • $143,078 for Calaveras County Public Health Department: Funds a prevention focused program that addresses multiple traffic challenges in the rural county, such as child passenger safety, school zone safety, and bicycle safety, with the goal of serving as a model for rural road safety efforts in other counties throughout the state.

    California encourages the public to join the movement for safer roads and sign up as a “traffic safety champion” at gosafelyca.org/get-involved.

    Recent news

    News SACRAMENTO — Governor Gavin Newsom issued the following statement on the inauguration of Mexico President Claudia Sheinbaum.  Jennifer and I warmly congratulate President Claudia Sheinbaum on her historic inauguration. Her swearing-in marks a pivotal moment, not…

    News What you need to know: The Assembly passed Governor Newsom’s proposal to prevent gasoline price spikes in the special session called by the Governor. The proposal now heads to the Senate. SACRAMENTO – Today, the California Assembly advanced Governor Gavin…

    News What you need to know: A recent joint enforcement operation led by the California Department of Cannabis Control (DCC), seized and destroyed millions of dollars of illegally cultivated cannabis. The Alameda County operation also led to the confiscation of a…

    MIL OSI USA News