#Service Delivery Plan 2018-19

[sudeepkedar]

Commercial Vehicle Market Growth Potential & Forecast, 2032

Commercial Vehicles Market size is predicted to reach USD 15.9 Tn by 2032. The market growth is fueled by the rising urbanization, increasing industrial activities, and technological advancements. The expanding global economy is pushing the demand for transportation of goods & services. With the rise of e-commerce and the need for efficient last-mile delivery solutions, particularly in urban areas, commercial vehicles sales have witnessed an uptick in the recent years. Additionally, the stringent emission regulations worldwide are pushing fleet operators to upgrade to cleaner and more fuel-efficient vehicles, contributing to market expansion.

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Moreover, advancements in driver-assistance technologies and the integration of automation are enhancing safety standards and optimizing operational efficiency of commercial vehicles, adding to their popularity. In September 2023, Amazon Web Services (AWS) disclosed that the BMW Group opted for AWS as its preferred cloud service provider for its automated driving platform. Using AWS, the BMW Group will plan its forthcoming advanced driver assistance system (ADAS) for its upcoming line of vehicles, dubbed the "Neue Klasse," scheduled for release in 2025.

The construction & mining end-use segment is predicted to grow significantly through 2032 owing to the ongoing infrastructure development projects. A resurgence in mining activities across various regions is influencing the demand for robust and specialized vehicles tailored to meet the unique requirements of these sectors. Manufacturers are responding by introducing durable and high-performance vehicles equipped with advanced features to enhance productivity and reliability in challenging work environments.

The electric vehicle (EV) segment is expected to generate massive revenues in the market by 2032 owing to the shift towards sustainable transportation solutions. Increasing environmental concerns and stringent emissions regulations are driving the adoption of electric commercial vehicles, particularly in urban areas. Innovations in battery technology and charging infrastructure are facilitating the transition towards electrification, offering cleaner and more efficient alternatives to traditional fuel-powered vehicles, stimulating the segment growth.

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Asia Pacific commercial vehicles market size will expand notably through 2032, driven by rapid urbanization, economic growth, and infrastructural development initiatives. Countries like China and India are witnessing a surge in demand for commercial vehicles, fueled by expanding e-commerce, burgeoning construction projects, and government investments in transportation infrastructure. The commercial vehicle manufacturers are capitalizing on these opportunities by expanding their presence in the region and forging strategic partnerships to cater to evolving consumer needs.

Some of the key players in the global commercial vehicle industry are AB Volvo, Toyota Motor Corporation, Scania AB, General Motors, Ford Motor Company, and BYD Motors, among others.

Partial chapters of report table of contents (TOC):

Chapter 1   Methodology & Scope

1.1    Market scope & definition

1.2    Base estimates & calculations

1.3    Forecast calculation

1.4    Data sources

1.4.1    Primary

1.4.2    Secondary

1.4.2.1   Paid sources

1.4.2.2   Public sources

Chapter 2   Executive Summary

2.1    Commercial vehicle market 3600 synopsis, 2018 - 2032

2.2    Business trends

2.3    Regional trends

2.4    Vehicle type trends

2.5    Drive type trends

2.6    End-use industry trends

Chapter 3   Commercial Vehicle Industry Insights

3.1    Impact of COVID-19

3.2    Industry ecosystem analysis

3.3    Vendor matrix

3.4    Profit margin analysis

3.5    Drive Type & innovation landscape

3.6    Patent analysis

3.7    Key news and initiatives

3.7.1    Partnership/Collaboration

3.7.2    Merger/Acquisition

3.7.3    Investment

3.7.4    Product launch & innovation

3.8    Regulatory landscape

3.9    Impact forces

3.9.1    Growth drivers

3.9.1.1   Rise in e-commerce and last-mile delivery demand

3.9.1.2   Increase of goods transportation

3.9.1.3   Technological advancements in vehicles

3.9.1.4   Supportive government policies and incentives

3.9.2    Industry pitfalls & challenges

3.9.2.1   Supply chain disruptions

3.9.2.2   Economic uncertainties and downturns

3.10    Growth potential analysis

3.11    Porter’s analysis

3.12    PESTEL analysis

About Global Market Insights:

Global Market Insights, Inc., headquartered in Delaware, U.S., is a global market research and consulting service provider; offering syndicated and custom research reports along with growth consulting services. Our business intelligence and industry research reports offer clients with penetrative insights and actionable market data specially designed and presented to aid strategic decision making. These exhaustive reports are designed via a proprietary research methodology and are available for key industries such as chemicals, advanced materials, technology, renewable energy and biotechnology.

Contact us:

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[newstfionline]

Monday, February 19, 2024

Flood watches issued as another round of wet winter storms hits California (AP) The latest in a series of wet winter storms blew ashore in Northern California on Sunday, with forecasters warning of possible flooding, hail, strong winds and even brief tornadoes as the system moves south over the next few days. Gusts topped 30 mph (48 kph) in Oakland and San Jose as a mild cold front late Saturday gave way to a more powerful storm that will gain strength into early Monday, said meteorologist Brayden Murdock with the National Weather Service office in San Francisco. California’s central coast is at risk of “significant flooding,” with up to 5 inches (12 cm) of rain predicted for many areas, according to the weather service. Isolated rain totals of 10 inches (25 cm) are possible in the Santa Lucia and Santa Ynez mountain ranges as the storm heads toward greater Los Angeles.

Prominent Black Church Leaders Call for End of U.S. Aid to Israel (NYT) Leaders of the African Methodist Episcopal Church, one of the country’s oldest and most prominent Black Christian denominations, called this week for the United States to end its financial aid to Israel, saying the monthslong military campaign in Gaza amounted to “mass genocide.” Black churches and other faith groups have pushed for a cease-fire in the Israel-Hamas war for months in advertisements, open letters and social media campaigns. Black faith leaders across denominations have amplified their calls as the number of dead rises. More than 28,000 people have been killed in Gaza, according to health officials there, many of them women and children. But the A.M.E. council’s statement goes further than a cease-fire demand, insisting that the United States immediately stop its financial support of Israel. It came as Israeli forces pushed into southern Gaza and prepared for a ground assault on Rafah, where more than a million displaced Palestinians are trapped.

Tens of thousands rail against Mexico’s president and ruling party in ‘march for democracy’ (AP) Tens of thousands of demonstrators cloaked in pink marched through cities in Mexico and abroad on Sunday in what they called a “march for democracy” targeting the country’s ruling party in advance of the country’s June 2 elections. The demonstrations called by Mexico’s opposition parties advocated for free and fair elections in the Latin American nation and railed against corruption the same day presidential front-runner Claudia Sheinbaum registered as a candidate for ruling party Morena. Approximately 90,000 people turned out to rail against the leader, according to government figures. Sheinbaum is largely seen as a continuation candidate of Mexico’s highly popular populist leader Andrés Manuel López Obrador. He’s adored by many voters who say he bucked the country’s elite parties from power in 2018 and represents the working class. But the 70-year-old president has also been accused of making moves that endanger the country’s democracy.

Surging cocaine violence has Uruguay clamoring for DEA help (Reuters) Uruguay’s main port received two cargo scanners sixteen years ago to detect drugs and other suspicious loads. Unfortunately, during delivery one of them fell into the sea. Since then, cocaine shipments to Europe have surged through the port of Montevideo, which handled a record 1.1 million containers last year, fueling a rise in gang violence and undermining Uruguay’s reputation as a beacon of stability in turbulent South America. Uruguay’s current center-right government, which took office the following year, has repeatedly asked the DEA to return but U.S. officials say there are no imminent plans to do so. Three former DEA officials told Reuters that—with Washington focused on fentanyl flooding its borders from Mexico and little of the cocaine that transits through Uruguay heading to the United States—there’s scant appetite for seeking congressional approval to re-open a Montevideo office. “Everything’s fentanyl now,” said former DEA official Larry Reichner, who oversaw Uruguay as the DEA’s assistant regional director for southern South America from 2015-2019. “They couldn’t give a rat’s — about cocaine.”

Britain’s David Cameron visits the Falkland Islands as Argentina renews its sovereignty claim (AP) Foreign Secretary David Cameron will visit the Falkland Islands this week to show they are a “valued part of the British family,” the U.K. government said Sunday. Britain’s top diplomat is making the trip amid renewed calls by Argentina for negotiations over the contested South Atlantic archipelago. The Foreign Office said Cameron will meet Falklands government officials, pay his respects to war dead and visit some of the islands’ 3,500 people and 1 million penguins. He’s the first British Cabinet minister since 2016 to visit the Falklands, over which Britain and Argentina fought a brief war in 1982.

Macron says recognizing a Palestinian state is not a taboo for France (AP) French President Emmanuel Macron says recognizing a Palestinian state is not a “taboo” for France, as international frustration grows with Israel’s actions in the Palestinian territories. France and the EU have long supported a two-state solution in the Mideast, but as part of a negotiated settlement. With talks long stalled and Israel’s offensive against Hamas in Gaza deepening, some European countries are voicing support for recognizing a Palestinian state sooner. “Recognizing a Palestinian state is not a taboo for France,” Macron said Friday at a meeting in Paris with Jordan’s King Abdullah. “We owe it to Palestinians, whose aspirations have been trampled on for too long. We owe it to Israelis, who lived through the worst antisemitic massacre of our time. We owe it to a region that is seeking to rise above those who promote chaos and seed revenge.”

Over 400 detained in Russia as country mourns the death of Alexei Navalny (AP) Over 400 people were detained in Russia while paying tribute to opposition leader Alexei Navalny, who died at a remote Arctic penal colony, a prominent rights group reported. The sudden death of Navalny, 47, was a blow to many Russians. Navalny remained vocal in his unrelenting criticism of the Kremlin even after surviving a nerve agent poisoning and receiving multiple prison terms. The news reverberated across the globe, and hundreds of people in dozens of Russian cities streamed to ad-hoc memorials and monuments to victims of political repressions with flowers and candles on Friday and Saturday to pay a tribute to the politician. In over a dozen cities, police detained 401 people by Saturday night.

Iran, wary of wider war, urges its proxies to avoid provoking U.S. (Washington Post) Iran, eager to disrupt U.S. and Israeli interests in the Middle East but wary of provoking a direct confrontation, is privately urging Hezbollah and other armed groups to exercise restraint against U.S. forces, according to officials in the region. Israel’s brutal war on Hamas in Gaza has stoked conflict between the United States and Iran’s proxy forces on multiple fronts. With no cease-fire in sight, Iran could face the most significant test yet of its ability to exert influence over these allied militias. When U.S. forces launched strikes this month on Iran-backed groups in Yemen, Syria and Iraq, Tehran publicly warned that its military was ready to respond to any threat. But in private, senior leaders are urging caution, according to Lebanese and Iraqi officials who were briefed on the talks.

Netanyahu Says He Won’t Bow to Pressure to Call Off Rafah Invasion (NYT) Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu of Israel insisted on Saturday that Israel would not bow to international pressure to call off its plan for a ground invasion of Rafah, the southernmost city in Gaza that is now packed with more than a million Palestinians. Many of the people now in Rafah are displaced and living in schools, tents or the homes of friends and relatives, part of a desperate search for any safe refuge from Israel’s military campaign, which has dragged on for more than four months. Their lives are a daily struggle to find enough food and water to survive. “Those who want to prevent us from operating in Rafah are basically telling us: Lose the war,” Mr. Netanyahu said at a news conference in Jerusalem on Saturday evening. “It’s true that there’s a lot of opposition abroad, but this is exactly the moment that we need to say that we won’t be doing a half or a third of the job.”

Nigeria’s currency has fallen to a record low (AP) Nigerians are facing one of the West African nation’s worst economic crises in years triggered by surging inflation, the result of monetary policies that have pushed the currency to an all-time low against the dollar. The situation has provoked anger and protests across the country. The latest government statistics released Thursday showed the inflation rate in January rose to 29.9%, its highest since 1996, mainly driven by food and non-alcoholic beverages. Nigeria’s currency, the naira, further plummeted to 1,524 to $1 on Friday, reflecting a 230% loss of value in the last year. “My family is now living one day at a time (and) trusting God,” said trader Idris Ahmed, whose sales at a clothing store in Nigeria’s capital of Abuja have declined from an average of $46 daily to $16.

Coming to an airport near you (NYT) Biometrics are transforming the way we travel. The technology, which identifies travelers using unique physical traits like fingerprints and faces, is becoming more common at airports in the United States. As a result, time-consuming rituals that once required repeated ID checks—such as bag dropping, security screening and boarding—are getting easier and faster. Some experts believe that this will be the year that biometric use, primarily facial recognition, becomes standard at many airports. The technology offers several advantages: enhanced security, quicker processing of passengers and a more convenient airport experience. Executives at various airlines tell me they believe passengers are becoming more comfortable with using biometrics in their daily lives. Many people regularly use facial recognition to unlock their phones, and shoppers can use their palms to pay for groceries at some Whole Foods stores. Cody Venzke, senior policy counsel on privacy and technology at the American Civil Liberties Union, said the government had not yet shown a demonstrated need for facial-recognition technology at airports. And he expressed concern over what he called the “nuclear scenario.” “Facial recognition technology,” he said, could be “the foundation for a really robust and widespread government surveillance and tracking network.”

Tai chi reduces blood pressure better than aerobic exercise, study finds (NPR) Tai chi, a traditional, slow-moving form of Chinese martial art, is known to increase flexibility and improve balance. Now, new research suggests it's better than more vigorous aerobic exercises for lowering blood pressure in people with prehypertension. Prehypertension is blood pressure that's higher than normal but doesn't quite reach the level of high blood pressure, or hypertension. The new findings, published in the journal JAMA Network Open, add to a large body of research pointing to health benefits from tai chi, a wellness practice that combines slow, gentle movements and postures with mindfulness. It's often called meditation in motion.

[lalsingh228-blog]

Aerospace & Defence Elastomers Market May Set New Growth Story

Advance Market Analytics added research publication document on Worldwide Aerospace & Defence Elastomers Market breaking major business segments and highlighting wider level geographies to get deep dive analysis on market data. The study is a perfect balance bridging both qualitative and quantitative information of Worldwide Aerospace & Defence Elastomers market. The study provides valuable market size data for historical (Volume** & Value) from 2018 to 2022 which is estimated and forecasted till 2028*. Some are the key & emerging players that are part of coverage and have being profiled are Dow (United States), Greene, Tweed (United States), LANXESS (Germany), Momentive (United States), Saint-Gobain Performance Plastics (France), Shin-Etsu Chemical Co., Ltd (Japan), Solvay (Belgium), The Chemours Company (United States), Transdigm Group, Inc. (United States), Trelleborg Group (Sweden), Wacker Chemie AG (Germany). Get free access to Sample Report in PDF Version along with Graphs and Figures @ https://www.advancemarketanalytics.com/sample-report/97032-global-aerospace--defence-elastomers-market

The global aerospace and defense elastomers market is expected to grow at a significant rate during the forecast period, according to the AMA study. The growing number of aircraft production and deliveries worldwide and the rising demand for aircraft periodic maintenance & aftermarket requirements is expected to be the major factors aiding into the growth of the market. Keep yourself up-to-date with latest market trends and changing dynamics due to COVID Impact and Economic Slowdown globally. Maintain a competitive edge by sizing up with available business opportunity in Aerospace & Defence Elastomers Market various segments and emerging territory. Influencing Market Trend

Rising Electrification of Aircraft Programs

Introduction of Fuel-Efficient Aircraft such as A320neo & B737-Max

Market Drivers

The Rising Global Aircraft Production & Deliveries

Growing Demand for Periodic Maintenance & Aftermarket Requirements

Opportunities:

Expected Deliveries of More Than 38,000 Commercial Aircraft During the Next 20 Years will Create Huge Opportunities for Market Vendors During the Forecast Period

Challenges:

The Outbreak of COVID-19 Affecting Airlines Industry Leading to Cancellation of International & Domestic Flights is Expected to be One of the Major Challenge for Short-Period of Time

Have Any Questions Regarding Global Aerospace & Defence Elastomers Market Report, Ask Our Experts@ https://www.advancemarketanalytics.com/enquiry-before-buy/97032-global-aerospace--defence-elastomers-market Analysis by Type (Gaskets, Seals, O-Rings, Profiles, Hoses, Others), Application (Fuselage, Avionics, Airframe, Engine, Others), End Users (OEMs, Aftermarket), Material (EPDM, Silicone, Flouroelastomers, Others), Aircraft (Commercial, Military, Helicopters, General Aviation, Others)

Competitive landscape highlighting important parameters that players are gaining along with the Market Development/evolution

• % Market Share, Segment Revenue, Swot Analysis for each profiled company [Dow (United States), Greene, Tweed (United States), LANXESS (Germany), Momentive (United States), Saint-Gobain Performance Plastics (France), Shin-Etsu Chemical Co., Ltd (Japan), Solvay (Belgium), The Chemours Company (United States), Transdigm Group, Inc. (United States), Trelleborg Group (Sweden), Wacker Chemie AG (Germany)]

• Business overview and Product/Service classification

• Product/Service Matrix [Players by Product/Service comparative analysis]

• Recent Developments (Technology advancement, Product Launch or Expansion plan, Manufacturing and R&D etc)

• Consumption, Capacity & Production by Players The regional analysis of Global Aerospace & Defence Elastomers Market is considered for the key regions such as Asia Pacific, North America, Europe, Latin America and Rest of the World. North America is the leading region across the world. Whereas, owing to rising no. of research activities in countries such as China, India, and Japan, Asia Pacific region is also expected to exhibit higher growth rate the forecast period 2023-2028.

Table of Content Chapter One: Industry Overview Chapter Two: Major Segmentation (Classification, Application and etc.) Analysis Chapter Three: Production Market Analysis Chapter Four: Sales Market Analysis Chapter Five: Consumption Market Analysis Chapter Six: Production, Sales and Consumption Market Comparison Analysis Chapter Seven: Major Manufacturers Production and Sales Market Comparison Analysis Chapter Eight: Competition Analysis by Players Chapter Nine: Marketing Channel Analysis Chapter Ten: New Project Investment Feasibility Analysis Chapter Eleven: Manufacturing Cost Analysis Chapter Twelve: Industrial Chain, Sourcing Strategy and Downstream Buyers Read Executive Summary and Detailed Index of full Research Study @ https://www.advancemarketanalytics.com/reports/97032-global-aerospace--defence-elastomers-market Highlights of the Report • The future prospects of the global Aerospace & Defence Elastomers market during the forecast period 2023-2028 are given in the report. • The major developmental strategies integrated by the leading players to sustain a competitive market position in the market are included in the report. • The emerging technologies that are driving the growth of the market are highlighted in the report. • The market value of the segments that are leading the market and the sub-segments are mentioned in the report. • The report studies the leading manufacturers and other players entering the global Aerospace & Defence Elastomers market. Thanks for reading this article; you can also get individual chapter wise section or region wise report version like North America, Middle East, Africa, Europe or LATAM, Southeast Asia. Contact US : Craig Francis (PR & Marketing Manager) AMA Research & Media LLP Unit No. 429, Parsonage Road Edison, NJ New Jersey USA – 08837 Phone: +1 201 565 3262, +44 161 818 8166 sales@advancemarketanalytics.com

[dominionra]

Restaurant Roundup: New restaurants coming to metro-Detroit; DRA Green Lantern Pizza deal makes the list

Posted by Crain's Detroit Business | Jay Davis | December 8, 2023

Canton gets state's second Raising Cane's- Another popular southern-based chicken chain is planting its flag in Southeast Michigan.

Baton Rouge, Louisiana-based Raising Cane’s is coming to Canton Township after the township board of trustees on Nov. 28 approved plans for a location at 44250 Ford Road. The chicken joint will take over a space previously occupied by TGI Fridays.

Raising Cane’s features chicken tenders, chicken sandwiches, coleslaw, Texas toast, and sweet tea by the jug. The Canton Raising Cane’s will be around 3,700 square feet, according to Township documents. The restaurant will have dine-in and drive-thru service. The space will include about 1,650-square-feet for indoor dining, and an outdoor patio area.

Raising Cane’s officials did not respond to a Crain’s request for more information.

The Canton location will be Michigan’s second, following an East Lansing location that opened in October 2022 at 301 E. Grand River Ave.

New Grand River Brewery location opens today in Clawson- A bar and restaurant with roots in mid- and West Michigan is now open in an Oakland County suburb.

Jackson-based Grand River Brewery opens today at 1 E. 14 Mile Road in Clawson. The new brewery, which also has locations in Jackson and Marshall, will operate out of the space that previously housed restaurant Pumachug. Pumachug closed in November 2022.

The space features sit-down dining on one side, with seating for 50, and a 49-seat bar in an adjoining space. Grand River Brewery will have a staff of 50 employees. Grand River Brewery will offer 15 draft beers, and five taps featuring batched cocktails. Food offered will include a Nashville Hot Chicken sandwich, burgers, woodfire pizza and steaks.

Grand River Brewery, owned by Justin Dalenberg, opened its first location in 2013 in Jackson. The Marshall location followed in 2018.

The Clawson Grand River Brewery will be open 4 p.m.-midnight daily at the outset. Additional hours will be added after the brewery opens,  company COO Bryce Davenport previously told Crain's.

New Irish pub now open in Clawson- The sister bar of a popular Rochester hangout is now open in Clawson.

Gus’ Snug opened on Dec. 4 at 38 S. Main St. in Clawson. The new Clawson spot is a venture from Dimitry Goyfman and Kevin VanDyke, the co-owners of O'Connor's Public House. The opening of Gus’ Snug is the first expansion for O'Connor's in its 19-year history. Gus’ Snug takes over a space previously occupied by Moose Winooski’s.

At 3,000 square feet, the Clawson spot at 38 S. Main St. is about half the size of O'Connor's, Goyfman said. Gus' Snug is about 3,000-square-feet, nearly half the size of Rochester's O’Connor’s. The Clawson pub has seating for 100 guests, including a 20-seat bar. Plans call for a 70-seat outdoor patio and biergarten in the rear, and a 30-seat outdoor space on Main Street.

The menu includes corned beef from Grobbel's and Fairway Packing Co. in Detroit's Eastern Market, as well as fish and chips and shepherd's pie. Gus' Snug's has nearly 20 draft beer options that include Irish favorites like Guinness, Harp and Smithwick's.

Goyfman previously told Crain’s he and VanDyke invested about $700,000 into the business and are projecting about $2 million in annual revenues.

Green Lantern Pizza expanding into Waterford-Green Lantern Pizza is set to add a new location in Oakland County.

Green Lantern in November signed a 10-year lease on a 1,400-square-foot space inside the Highland Row Shopping Center in Waterford, according to a news release. The Waterford location will serve as a carryout and delivery store.

The Waterford Green Lantern will be the company’s 12th location. A Livonia carryout and delivery store is planned, too, according to the Green Lantern website. Green Lantern currently operates seven carryout and delivery locations and sit-down restaurants and bars in Berkley, Clinton Township, and Madison Heights.

To read about the 10-year lease transaction for Green Lantern: https://dominionra.com/news.php/735538740804632576

To read this article on Crain's Detroit Business, visit https://www.crainsdetroit.com/food-drink/raising-canes-chicken-planned-canton-township

[inah-rosario]

Starbucks

Starbucks was founded in 1971 by Jerry Baldwin, Zev Siegl, and Gordon Bowker at Seattle's Pike Place Market. During the early 1980s, they sold the company to Howard Schultz who—after a business trip to Milan, Italy—decided to convert the coffee bean store into a coffee shop serving espresso-based drinks.

On March 20, 2020, due to the COVID-19 pandemic, Starbucks closed all the café-only stores in the United States for two weeks. During that time, only drive-thru and delivery-only services were to function. According to the company representatives, all workers were to be paid for the next 30 days whether they went to work or stayed home.[63] COVID-19 lockdowns caused Starbucks to suffer a general 10% sales decrease, and a 50% decrease in China where quarantine measures were especially strict.[64]

In May 2020, the company asked for reduced rent from landlords due to the decrease in sales.[65][66][67]

In June 2020, during the COVID-19 pandemic in the United States, the company announced that it would close 400 of its locations in the US/Canada region over the subsequent 18 months as it moves from the coffee house concept to what it calls "convenience-led" formats with drive-through and curbside pickup. Starbucks announced that it planned to open 300 stores that will primarily focus on carryout and pickup orders.[68][69] The new stores will work with the Starbucks mobile app for prepayment by the customer before arrival to pick up the order. The layout of some stores will also be modified with a separate counter for picking up mobile orders.

In December 2020, Starbucks announced that it is planning to increase its store count to about 55,000 by 2030, up from roughly 33,000.[70]

Bloomberg reported in July 2022 that the company was, through investment bank Houlihan Lokey, exploring selling its stores in the United Kingdom.[71]

In August 2022, after months of suspension due to the Russian invasion of Ukraine, Starbucks sold all its stores in Russia to the Russian rapper Timati. The stores were rebranded as "Stars Coffee", and are very similar to the former stores. Starbucks said it had no comment on the new owner.[72][73]

On October 1, 2022, Howard Schultz steps down as CEO, with Laxman Narasimhan becoming Starbucks's next CEO.[74]

On March 23, 2023, Narasimhan told employees that he'll work a half-day behind a store counter each month, and he trained as a barista to immerse himself in the brand and stay close to customers.[75]

In June 2023, Starbucks was ordered to pay $25 million in punitive damages and $600.000 compensatory damages to a former regional manager. The court found that Starbucks fired her in 2018 because she was white.[76]

[portugalthecitadel]

Fleet of the Future (D and E series)

In service2018–present

ManufacturerBombardier/Alstom

DesignerMorelli Designers

Built at

Plattsburgh, New York

Pittsburg, California

Family nameMovia

ReplacedA, C seriesConstructed2012–

Number under construction310

(total)Fleet numbers3001–3310

Capacity51 (seated)

Depot(s)

Colma Yard

Concord Yard

Hayward Complex

Richmond Yard

Plattsburgh, New York

Pittsburg, California

Family name Movia Replaced A, C series Constructed 2012–Number under construction310 (total) Fleet numbers 3001–3310 Capacity 51 (seated) Depot(s)

Colma Yard

Concord Yard

Hayward Complex

Richmond Yard

In a 2010 APTA study, the average age of BART's mainline fleet was reported to be 30 years, longer than the usual lifespan of 25 years. Despite the purchase of newer cars over the years, the majority of the active fleet in 2016 was over 40 years old and had traveled over a million miles. Because of this, they have been increasingly prone to frequent breakdowns and repairs, decreasing the number of available cars and in turn increasing congestion, especially with the need to increase the fleet size for extensions to the network. Consequently, in 2009, BART began the process of expanding and replacing its railcar fleet. By 2010, it had received proposals from five suppliers, and on May 10, 2012, it awarded a $896.3 million contract to railcar manufacturer Bombardier (during delivery the company was bought by Alstom) with an order for 410 new cars, split into a base order of 260 cars and a first option order of 150 additional cars. The car was designed by Morelli Designers, an industrial design firm based in Montréal, Canada. On November 21, 2013, BART purchased 365 more cars, for a total fleet size of 775 new railcars, while also accelerating the delivery schedule by 21 months (from 10 cars per month up to 16 cars per month) and lowering procurement costs by approximately $135 million. The contract requires that at least 2⁄3 of its value be spent on U.S.-built parts.

The new fleet is composed of two different types of cars: 310 cab cars (D cars) and 465 non-cab cars (E cars). Both types have bike racks, new vinyl seats (54 per car), and passenger information systems that display next stop information.

A major difference is an extra set of doorways on each side of the new cars to speed up boarding and alighting. They also include redesigned seating, bike racks, digital displays that display travel information, and automatic announcements. Due to potential access issues for people with disabilities, the pilot car layout was modified by the BART board in February 2015 to include two wheelchair spaces in the center of the car, as well as alternative layouts for bike and flexible open spaces.

The first test car was unveiled in April 2016; upon approval, the first 10 cars were expected to be in service in December 2016, and at least 20 by December 2017. This was delayed several times until the production cars were expected to be delivered in October 2017. Delivery of all 775 cars was initially expected to be completed by Fall 2022, with all cars in service by 2023. Bombardier initially agreed to speed production to have all cars available by the end of 2021 and in service by 2022.

In early November 2017, a test train failed a CPUC regulatory inspection due to door issues, leaving the planned late November revenue service in doubt. The first ten-car train received CPUC certification on January 17, 2018, and began revenue service two days later on January 19. Plans to have 198 new cars by July 2018 did not materialize, and the agency had put only 20 in service at that time. After only running on the Richmond–Warm Springs/South Fremont line since January, a set of D and E cars began transbay service in October 2018.

In November 2018, BART announced they had negotiated to extend their purchase options to a total of 1,200 cars, though reports in 2019 stated that this deal was still not final. By the end of March 2019, 65 cars were in use; four 10-car trains for revenue service and the remainder for training. In June 2019, with 84 total cars delivered, Bombardier announced it would be moving production from their New York-based plant to a new facility shared with Hitachi Rail in Pittsburg, California in the East Bay.

In January 2021, BART stopped accepting new cars pending reliability improvements to be made by Bombardier. That same month, the struggling Bombardier sold its transportation division to Alstom, which said it would work to recover operations. BART was not alone with issues with Bombardier equipment. Before the Alstom deal, the company had seen declining profits largely caused by a series of major delays in delivering new fleets of trains (including the Flexity streetcars for Toronto and R179 subway cars for New York City) and reliability problems once trains were placed in service.

BART resumed accepting new cars in February 2022. As of September 11, 2023, BART has received 591 D and E cars, of which 575 have been certified for service and 368 are required for service. All 55 trains in service use the new cars.

BART exclusively runs Fleet of the Future trains on its base schedule since September 11, 2023. Legacy trains only run when needed, such as on days with major events or during a service disruption. BART plans to retire the remaining legacy fleet in late 2024.

[freddiemark]

Complete Analysis on Tata 1mg Share Price: IPO 2023

Introduction to Tata 1mg Share Price

In the dynamic world of healthcare, the digitization of medical services and pharmaceuticals has become increasingly vital. One notable player in this arena is Tata 1mg, an e-pharmacy and healthcare platform. This article delves into Tata 1mg share price, tracing its historical performance, examining its current position, and exploring the factors that may shape its future.

Historical Performance

Tata 1mg, part of the Tata Group conglomerate, entered the healthcare scene with a vision to make healthcare accessible and convenient. Since its inception, the company has gone through several phases of growth and transformation.

Historical Milestones of Tata 1mg:

1. Foundation and Expansion (2015-2017): Tata 1mg was founded as HealthKartPlus and quickly expanded its offerings, providing consumers with access to medicines, healthcare products, and diagnostic services. During this period, the company gained a reputation for reliable services, which was reflected in its initial share price.

2. Rebranding to Tata 1mg (2017): In a strategic move to align with the Tata brand, HealthKartPlus rebranded itself as Tata 1mg. This rebranding aimed to leverage the trust associated with the Tata Group.

3. Market Expansion and Funding (2018-2019): Tata 1mg continued to grow, expanding its presence in various cities across India. The company also attracted significant funding to support its expansion plans.

4. COVID-19 Pandemic (2020-2021): The pandemic led to a surge in demand for healthcare services, including online pharmacies. Tata 1mg saw an uptick in its user base during this period, further boosting investor confidence.

Current Position

As of Today, Tata 1mg share price, showcasing steady growth in recent years. The company's current position can be attributed to several key factors:

1. Trust and Reputation: Tata's association with the brand instills trust among consumers, which reflects positively on Tata 1mg's reputation.

2. Diverse Offerings: Tata 1mg offers a wide range of healthcare services, including online medicine delivery, lab tests, doctor consultations, and health content. This diversified portfolio caters to various healthcare needs.

3. Pandemic-Driven Demand: The COVID-19 pandemic accelerated the adoption of online healthcare services. Tata 1mg benefited from this trend, experiencing increased demand for its services.

4. Technological Advancements: The platform has continually invested in technology, ensuring a seamless and user-friendly experience for its customers.

Future Prospects

The future prospects of Tata 1mg's share price hinge on various factors:

1. Regulatory Landscape: The online pharmacy industry in India is subject to regulatory changes. The company's ability to navigate these changes and stay compliant will be crucial.

2. Competitive Market: Tata 1mg faces stiff competition from other e-pharmacy players. Its ability to differentiate itself through unique services and offerings will be a determining factor.

3. Continued Expansion: Expanding to new markets and regions will open up growth opportunities. Tata 1mg must strategically plan its expansion to tap into underserved areas.

4. Digital Health Adoption: The adoption of digital health services is on the rise. Tata 1mg can benefit from this trend by continually innovating and offering valuable digital health solutions.

5. Customer-Centric Approach: Maintaining a strong customer-centric approach by providing reliable services, timely deliveries, and responsive customer support is paramount for sustained growth.

6. Investment and Partnerships: Collaborations and partnerships with healthcare providers, pharmaceutical companies, and insurers can contribute to Tata 1mg's growth.

Conclusion

Tata 1mg share price has steadily risen over the years, reflecting its growth and impact in the healthcare sector. The company's association with the prestigious Tata Group has bolstered its reputation and trustworthiness among consumers and investors alike.

The COVID-19 pandemic served as a catalyst for the company's growth, highlighting the importance of accessible and reliable healthcare services. Tata 1mg's diversified portfolio, technological advancements, and commitment to quality have contributed to its current position of strength.

Looking ahead, Tata 1mg faces challenges typical of the e-pharmacy industry, including regulatory changes and competition. However, its future prospects remain promising as it continues to expand, innovate, and cater to the evolving healthcare needs of the Indian population.

Investors and observers will be watching closely as Tata 1mg navigates the dynamic healthcare landscape and strives to make healthcare more accessible and convenient for all.

[desaletushki]

Dental Equipment Market Size, Share & Revenue Forecast 2030

Dental Equipment Market Growth & Trends

The global dental equipment market size is expected to reach USD 17.06 billion by 2030, according to a new report by Grand View Research, Inc., registering a CAGR of 6.2% over the forecast period. These tools help with an oral health diagnosis, care, and maintenance and allow practitioners to plan a precise course of action. The introduction of supportive government efforts for oral health, an increase in medical tourism for dental operations, and the incidence of dental problems all contribute to the industry's growth. In addition, manufacturers like Planmeca are always introducing fresh computer-aided technology to the market.

Request a free sample copy or view report summary: https://www.grandviewresearch.com/industry-analysis/dental-equipment-market

For instance, the industry demand is being driven by the company's March 2019 launch of the Planmeca Creo C5, an innovative 3D printer created to deliver chairside CAD/CAM dentistry and restorative dental treatments in a single visit.According to the estimates published by the United Nations in 2019, there were 703 million people aged over 65 years globally, and the number of older individuals is projected to double to 1.5 billion by 2050. The rising prevalence of various oral conditions in the geriatric population is likely to increase the demand for preventive, restorative, and surgical services in the future. According to the American Dental Association, 85% of individuals in the United States, value dental health and consider it an essential aspect of overall care.

The realization of the importance and maintenance of oral health combined with better access to advanced dental services will help in the growth of the industry. However, the “emergency-only” mode of dental care delivery due to the COVID-19 pandemic had a rippling effect and the industry witnessed an imminent increase in availing cost of dental care. According to the Journal of Contemporary Dental Practice, dental services were among the last to relaunch in post-pandemic relaxations since dental procedures are at high risk of transmission. This resulted in serious financial problems and revenue loss for the overall dental market.

Dental Equipment Market Report Highlights

Dental systems and parts emerged as the largest product segment in 2022 as these equipment are used for digital imaging and diagnosis of dental ailments

The dental lasers segment is expected to witness the highest CAGR during the forecast period. This is owing to its increasing application in surgical and teeth-whitening procedures.

North America dominated the global industry in 2022 owing to the high demand for new technologies & the prevalence of dental disorders and the presence of a large pool of key players & advanced healthcare infrastructure

Asia Pacific, on the other hand, is expected to register the highest CAGR over the forecast period

Dental Equipment Market Segmentation

Grand View Research has segmented the global dental equipment market on the basis of product type and region:

Dental Equipment Product Type (Revenue, USD Million, 2018 - 2030)

Dental Radiology Equipment 

Intra-Oral

Digital X-ray Units

Digital Sensors

Extra-Oral

Digital Units

Analog Units

Dental Lasers

Diode Lasers

Quantum well lasers

Distributed feedback lasers

Vertical cavity surface emitting lasers

Heterostructure lasers

Quantum cascade lasers

Separate confinement heterostructure lasers

Vertical external cavity surface emitting lasers

Carbon Dioxide Lasers

Yttrium Aluminium Garnet Lasers

Systems & Parts

Instrument Delivery systems

Vacuums & Compressors

Cone Beam CT Systems

Cast Machine

Furnace and Ovens

Electrosurgical Equipment

Other System and Parts

CAD/CAM

Laboratory Machines

Ceramic Furnaces

Hydraulic Press

Electronic Waxer

Suction Unit

Micro Motor

Hygiene Maintenance Devices

Sterilizers

Air Purification & Filters

Hypodermic Needle Incinerator

Other Equipment

Chairs

Hand Piece

Light Cure

Scaling Unit

Regional Insights

North America dominated the global industry in 2022 with a market share of more than 38.35% and is expected to showcase a significant CAGR over the forecast period. This is attributed to the rising geriatric population, strong medical infrastructure, well-established reimbursement policies, the existence of key players, and advancement in preventive and restorative dental treatments. Moreover, according to the American Dental Association, 85% of individuals in the United States truly value dental health and consider oral health an essential aspect of overall care. The combination of all these factors will make North America the most promising regional market over the forecast period.

The APAC region is expected to witness the highest CAGR over the forecast period. China, Japan, and India are emerging economies with well-developed healthcare infrastructure & facilities and are now more focused on leading on the basis of R&D activities. They have suitable infrastructure and fundings for the same. A total of 43.6% of the spending is expected to emanate from Asia with countries like China, Japan, and India being the topmost to spend on R&D activities.

Attributes like favorable government policies, the rising geriatric population, the presence of key players, and the rise in the demand for dental procedures are paving way for the market in the Asia Pacific region. Moreover, medical tourism in the region is rapidly increasing due to shorter patient waiting times, low-cost treatment, availability of a large pool of skilled dental practitioners & high-end technology, and the presence of tourist destinations & quality accommodations. These aforementioned factors will assist in the market growth in the region.

List of Key Players of Dental Equipment Market

A-Dec Inc.

Planmeca Oy

Dentsply Sirona

Patterson Companies Inc.

Straumann

GC Corp.

Carestream Health Inc.

Biolase Inc.

Danaher Corp.

3M EPSE

Authoritative Research: https://www.grandviewresearch.com/industry-analysis/dental-equipment-market

[fleetroot-blog]

How To Enhance Last Mile Visibility For Your Business With Electric Vehicles

For the beyond few years, there was a large boom withinside the e-trade enterprise. However, the COVID-19 pandemic has induced huge variations in patron shopping behaviors and made online purchasing brand new every day for everyone.

The preceding yr has additionally created a large surge in calls for same-day and -day deliveries, hyperlocal purchasing, and dynamic on-call for services.

There isn’t any denying that comfort is a catalyst for patron satisfaction, greater than ever before. With comfort turning into the middle of attraction, the call for efficiency, swift, and constant last-mile deliveries has extended.

Nevertheless, there was a pointy upward push withinside the wide variety of last-mile shipping motors on the road. It has extended carbon emissions and extended gas intake.

With the growing call for last-mile shipping operations, there might be 36% greater shipping motors withinside the pinnacle of a hundred international regions with the aid of using 2030. If we don’t take any powerful measures, it can boom carbon emissions.

For corporations worried about this race, whether or not it’s e-trade, retail, third-birthday birthday celebration logistics, grocery, and meal deliveries, accurate logistics is crucial for achievement withinside the marketplace.

Simultaneously, a few corporations are dedicated to the surroundings for controlling the damaging influences of logistical sports on earth and shaping sustainable delivery chains.

Therefore, numerous companies are taking on greener logistics practices to lessen their carbon footprint and decrease environmental outcomes.

By 2030, Amazon plans to gain a hundred% renewable strength, a good way to be the most important undertaking to date. Along with Rivian Automotive Inc., it intends to consist of a hundred thousand battery-electric powered shipping trucks for its leader deliveries.

By 2040, Walmart plans to run a whole variety of electric motors with the usage of a hundred% renewable strength to system 0 emissions.

Across the European continent, too, electric-powered shipping motors are regularly sighted on inner-metropolis roads. For example, with the aid of using the following 5 years, IKEA objectives to have 25% of its last-mile deliveries made with the aid using electric-powered motors.

Electric Vehicles withinside the Last-mile: A boon to the surroundings

The adoption of electrical motors for last-mile deliveries is probably one of the sought-after traits to put into effect green logistics. These EVs run on electric-powered cars in combustion engines that use gas and gases to generate power.

Usually, there are styles of EVs used: All-Electric Vehicles (AEVs) and Plug-in Hybrid Electric Vehicles (PHEVs)

Electric motors have to grow to be a successful substitute for gas-eating cars to lessen the damaging outcomes of worldwide warming, growing pollution, and diminishing herbal resources. Other than being a green option, those motors provide numerous different enterprise benefits.

Business Benefits of Using Electric Vehicles (EVs)

1. Minimum gas intake

The logistics enterprise relies relatively on transportation. That outcome is intense portions of gas wastage proper via the delivery chain journey. In 2018, the USA used around 9 billion barrels of petroleum, ⅔ of which went in the direction of transportation.

No CNG, diesel, or petrol is wanted in a completely electric-powered automobile, and lesser gas is essential even for a hybrid electric-powered automobile. By the usage of EVs for executing last-mile deliveries, corporations can decrease gas intake remarkably.

2. Cost-powerful logistics

Logistics and gas intake are carefully associated with every different, so with the aid of using the usage of electric-powered motors for last-mile shipping, you may lessen running expenses in conjunction with decreased gas intake.

Besides, electric-powered motors upload as much as huge value savings. Also, with technological evolution, switching to an electric-powered shipping automobile is not large monetary funding, because it became some years ago.

3. Easy upkeep

EVs are quite clean to maintain. Just like a cell phone, you may recharge those motors with the aid of using connecting them to an outside delivery. Once you recharge them, EVs can provide a mileage of eighty to a hundred miles and run as much as 12 hours.

In comparison to traditional motors, EVs have lesser car parts, consisting of a radiator, the engine, spark plugs, pistons, gas pumps, exhaust systems, and cooling systems. It makes automobile upkeep lots greater convenient.

Electric motors most effectively want battery upkeep or substitute as soon as each year.

Conclusion

Though the concept of electrical motors is right here for a protracted time, delivery chain companies had been relatively inspired by it because of its sustainability and efficiency.

But the query is, is it a super desire on your enterprise to make use of those motors for your last mile operations?

While all styles of shipping corporations can effortlessly use electric-powered motors for last-mile deliveries, it’s maximum huge for the companies that carry out deliveries inside a set and confined radius.

Businesses have embraced electric-powered motors, and it’s worth finding for the approaching years.

Combined with Artificial Intelligence, EVs can optimize routes should perform each day’s dispatches at the same time as riding lesser distances and improving last-mile visibility on your enterprise.

Read More about How To Enhance Last Mile Visibility For Your Business With Electric Vehicles

Get a FREE Trial of Delivery Software

[newsytv]

The National Health Mission's (NHM) Janani Suraksha Yojana 2023 (JSY) safe motherhood initiative seeks to lower maternal and newborn mortality by encouraging institutional delivery among low-income expectant women. It is a completely centrally financed programme.

JSY, which was introduced in April 2005, is being used in all Indian states and union territories. The National Maternity Benefit Scheme (NMBS), which has been in place since June 1997, and the Janani Shishu Suraksha Karyakram (JSSK), which was introduced in June 2011, were combined into one programme. Pregnant mothers who give birth in a medical facility are given financial support under the JSY programme.

By encouraging expectant mothers to give birth in medical facilities and consequently reducing home deliveries, the scheme's overall goal is to lower maternal and newborn mortality rates. The State Governments/UT Administrations are used to carry out the programme, which is implemented by the Ministry of Health and Family Welfare, Government of India.

The programme offers pregnant mothers financial support for having their babies in hospitals. Women from Below Poverty Line (BPL) families receive monetary support, which is sent straight into the recipients' bank accounts. Most states provide cash support in the amount of Rs. 1,400, though this amount may vary from state to state. The most that can be given in cash is Rs. 6,000.

Additionally, the programme offers pregnant women free transportation and companionship to the medical facility. Additionally, it promotes family planning by giving women having sterilisation an extra Rs. 200. Additionally, the programme offers pregnant women free needed medications and diagnostic services.

For the fiscal years 2021–2023, the Indian government has set out Rs. 15,000 crores for the Janani Suraksha Yojana's execution. The government has also taken a number of actions to ensure that the plan is implemented successfully. These include establishing a specific monitoring and evaluation (M&E) system, giving state governments technical support, and launching the Janani Suraksha Yojana Mobile App (JSYMA).

The scheme has had tremendous success. The institutional delivery rate increased from 38% in 2005-2006 to 78% in 2018-19, according to the National Health Mission.

[emergingindiaanalyticsnoida]

AI for supply chain & logistic

Speed in operations, speed in decision-making, speed in cutting cycle times, and speed in continual enhancement. In the times to come, AI in the supply chain will continue to make waves. Supply chain enterprises anticipate a two-fold increase in the quantum of machine automation in their supply chain conditioning over the coming five times, according to Gartner. also, it’s anticipated that worldwide investment on IIoT platforms would increase from $1.67 billion in 2018 to$12.44 billion in 2024, growing at a 40 compound periodic growth rate( CAGR) during that time.

Maximizing productivity by lowering query is the top precedence across sectors in today’s connected digital world. The need for the sector to take advantage of artificial intelligence’s( AI) prowess in supply chains and logistics is further underlined by the rise in prospects of supersonic speed and efficiencies among suppliers and business mates of all kinds.

Artificial Intelligence( AI) in Supply Chains & Logistics Gaining Supply Chain Momentum Supply chain AI is aiding in furnishing the potent optimization capabilities necessary for more precise capacity planning, higher effectiveness, high quality, lower costs, and lesser affair, all while promoting safer working conditions.

Establishing a thorough grasp of the effects on supply chains and contingency plans can help manufacturing organisations deal with uncertainty when faced with a pandemic like COVID- 19. What does AI mean for companies that are trying to recover while putting supply chain edge first?

Artificial Intelligence( AI) in Logistics and Supply Chain

Business Benefits of AI in Supply Chains 1. Effective INVENTORY CONTROL Benefits of Accurate Inventory Management in the Supply Chain The proper inflow of goods into and out of a warehouse can be assured by accurate inventory management. Order processing, picking, and quilting are only a few of the numerous inventory- related variables that can be time- consuming and have a high vulnerability to error. also, effective inventory operation can aid in avoiding overstocking, inadequate stock, and unexpected stock- outs.

AI- driven systems can prove to be relatively successful in inventory operation due to their capacity to handle large quantities of data. Large datasets can be instantly analysed and interpreted by these intelligent systems, furnishing prompt advice on supply and demand predictions. These AI systems with clever algorithms can forecast seasonal demand and predict and identify new consumer patterns. This use of AI helps reduce the charges associated with overstocking uninvited goods while anticipating future client demand trends.

2. STORAGE EFICIENCY An effective warehouse is a pivotal element of the supply chain, and automation can help with prompt item reclamation from warehouses and trouble-free delivery to customers. also, AI systems can expeditiously and directly resolve a variety of warehouse concerns, as well as streamline complex processes and increase productivity. AI- driven automation initiatives can also drastically cut the demand for and expenditure of warehouse workers in addition to saving important time.

3. AMPLIFYED SAFETY Intelligent planning and effective warehouse operation are made possible by AI- based automated technologies, which can improve worker and material safety. AI may also examine data on workplace safety and alert manufacturers to any potential dangers. It can modernize operations, record stocking parameters, and perform essential feedback loops and precautionary maintenance. This enables manufacturers to respond snappily and strongly to maintain the safety and compliance of warehouses.

4. LESS EXPENSIVE OPERATIONS Benefits of AI in Supply Chain Lower Operating Costs The supply chain can greatly benefit from AI systems in this regard. Automated intelligent processes can operate without errors for a longer period of time, decreasing the amount of errors and workplace incidents, from customer service to the warehouse. With their increased speed and accuracy, warehouse robots are more productive.

5. PROMPT DELIVERY AI systems can help in reducing reliance on manual efforts, performing in a faster, safer, and more intelligent overall process. This makes it easier to fulfil the pledge of prompt delivery to the consumer. Traditional warehouse processes are accelerated by automated technologies, removing operational bottlenecks along the value chain with the least amount of effort to meet delivery deadlines.

[skyfire85]

-USMC MV-22 Ospreys on the deck of USS Bataan. | Photo: Staff Sgt. Wayne Campbell, USMC

Flightline: 62 - Bell/Boeing V-22 Osprey

After the disastrous failure at Desert One during the 1980 Iran hostage rescue mission, the US DOD recognized that there existed a requirement for a transport that could take off and land vertically, but also travel long distance at speed. The Joint-service Vertical take-off/landing Experimental (JVX) program was begun in 1981 to obtain and combine requirements from the Army, Navy, Marines and USAF. In late 1982 a request for proposals was released, attracting interest from Aérospatiale, Bell Helicopter, Boeing Vertol, Grumman, Lockheed, and Westland. Bell later teamed with Boeing Vertol, submitting a design based on the former’s XV-15 tiltrotor.

-Early concept image of V-22 Osprey, probably from mid to late-1980s. | Photo: US Navy

Bell/Boeing submitted the only design, and were awarded a preliminary design contract was awarded on 26 April 1983. In 1985 the Bell/Boeing JVX design was named the Osprey, and given the designation V-22, with USMC Osprey known as MV-22 and USAF CV-22, in part to avoid confusion with USN carrier designation (CV). By March of that year, the first half-dozen prototypes were under construction, with work split between Bell and Boeing. The first V-22 was rolled out in 1988, but the program also suffered major issues that year. Costs ballooned, from $2.5 billion in 1986 to a projected $30 billion in 1988. Citing a need to focus on other programs, the US Army dropped out of the program. The following year, the US Senate voted twice to cancel the Osprey, though the program survived. The DOD then ordered the Navy to not spend more money on the V-22, and SecDef Cheney tried several times from 1989 to 1992 to defund the program, though each time he was overruled by Congress.

-Bell-Boeing’s first V-22 prototype transitions to forward flight. | Photo: Bell/Boeing

The first of six prototypes first flew on 19 March 1989 in the helicopter mode, and on 14 September 1989 in fixed-wing mode. Sea trials were completed on USS Wasp in December 1990, though the program was marred by crashes of the fourth and fifth prototypes in 1991 and 1992. The V-22 was grounded until June of 1993 to make needed changes. From October 1992 – April 1993, the V-22 was redesigned to reduce empty weight, simplify manufacture, and reduce build costs; resulting in the V-22B variant. The existing prototypes were upgraded to the new standard, and in 1997 flight testing of the first four full-scale development V-22s began at Pax River. Testing soon fell behind schedule, though a second round of sea trials on USS Saipan was accomplished in 1999.

On 8 April 2000, a night training exercise of four MV-22 in Arizona resulted in one aircraft crashing, killing the 19 Marines on board, and another suffered a hard landing, though no one aboard were killed. The V-22 was grounded again while the crash investigation was conducted, during which issues with the V-22's design, as well as with crew training, were determined to be the causes of the crash. As the V-22 descended to land it was dropping at 2,000 feet a minute, well above the prescribed 800 feet a minute. The speed caused the aircraft to enter an aerodynamic condition known as vortex ring state. In this condition, a vortex envelops the rotor, causing an aircraft to lose lift, in essence descending in its own downwash. Flight testing resumed after the board rendered its conclusions, but another MV-22 crashed in December 2000, killing four Marines. Despite the accidents, by June 2005 the V-22 had completed its final operational evaluation, including long-range deployments, high altitude, desert and shipboard operations. In September of 2005, the Pentagon approved full-rate production of the V-22, ordering 458 aircraft (360 for the USMC, 50 for the USAF, and 48 for the Navy). The USAF officially accepted the CV-22 in 2006, and the MV-22 reaching IOC the following year. Despite being in the 2005 contract, the Navy did not acquire any of the 48 HV-22 mentioned, for reasons unknown (though likely budgetary). Ospreys have since seen deployment to both Iraq and Afghanistan, as well as other hotspots around the world.

-Marines push boxes out the back of a V-22 Osprey aircraft in Zaranj, Afghanistan, on Dec. 14, 2009. | Photo: USMC

-V-22s are fitted with LEDs in the rotors, which create a glowing ring when spinning, allowing the crew, ground personnel and passengers a clear indication of the rotor disc. | Photo: USMC

In 2015, the Navy signed an MOU to buy 44 redesigned CMV-22B Osprey for COD (carrier on-board delivery) beginning in 2018, with initial delivery expected in 2020. The CMV-22 has larger sponsons, which carry additional fuel, as well as a high-frequency radio. The type will also include a hoist on the ramp, allowing it to deliver cargo to other Navy ships, replacing some helicopters.

-A CMV-22B landing at Pax River after being ferried from the Bell Assembly Center in Texas. | Photo: USN

In 2014, the Japanese Self-Defence Force decided to acquire 17 MV-22Bs, with the first delivery occurring in August of 2017. The JSDF Osprey are based at Kisarazu Air Field, with plans to station some on the Izumo-class helicopter destroyers (*cough*aircraftcarriers*cough*).

India, Indonesia, Israel, South Korea and the UAE have expressed varying degrees of interest in acquiring V-22 of their own, though as of 2020 none have formally acted.

In addition to the transport versions currently in service, other variants were studied during development:

An AEW&C version known as the EV-22, which would replace the E-2 in US Navy service as well as the Sea King ASaC.7 in Royal Navy service

SV-22 Anti-submarine warfare variant, to replace the S-3 and SH-2.

Neither was pursued, though Bell/Boeing continue to pursue variants.

-Rendering of an EV-22 AEW variant, showing the new triangular radar pylon. | Image: Jeff Head

-Model of the SV-22. The ASW variant would have been armed with four torpedoes and carried a dipping sonar. | Photo: Justin Gibb

-Model of the SV-22. The proposal didn’t include a MAD boom, but I added one. | Photo: Justin Gibb

In 2017, HMX-1, the Marine helicopter squadron responsible for transporting the President, Vice President and other senior leadership, recieved 12 MV-22B, replacing its fleet of CH-46 helicopters for support operations.

-HMX-1's first MV-22B, in the squadron’s traditional gloss olive drab paint scheme. | Photo: Sgt. Rebekka S. Heite

[hrthrive2022]

Ride Pe Chaloge?

Dunzo is an Indian company that delivers groceries and essentials, fruits and vegetables, meat, pet supplies, food, and medicines in major cities. It also has a separate service to pick up and deliver packages within the same city. Dunzo currently provides its delivery services in eight Indian cities including Bangalore, Delhi, Gurgaon, Pune, Chennai, Jaipur, Mumbai and Hyderabad. Dunzo is headquartered in Bangalore and was founded in 2014.

In May 2020, Dunzo partnered with FMCG major PepsiCo to deliver its snacks brands such as Lays and Kurkure to customers’ doorsteps in Bengaluru amid the lockdown due to the Covid-19 pandemic in India in keeping with Pepsico's ‘Direct-to-Customer’ initiative. In the same month, it also partnered with digital payments app Google Pay to provide grocery and medicine delivery, bike pool, pickup-and-drop, among other services.

Case in Hand:

In 2018, Dunzo rolled out Bike Taxi Services in Gurgaon. Bike pooling is the newest addition to their array of services which essentially is India's fastest and affordable way for daily travel. Dunzo is planning to officially combine this pilot program into their services as an all new Service Line. The Project is visioned to be implemented in at least 2 cities by the last quarter of FY 22-23. Unanimously, the Board of Directors have finalized on Delhi and Bengaluru to be in the first two cities for the launch.

Task in Hand:

You are the Project Manager, incharge of launching the new service line, adding it to the varied services offered by Dunzo in Bengaluru. You are required to come up with the following:

Job roles to be recruited for the new service line.

Recruitment Strategies for hiring new employees.

Selection Processes to be used.

Training and development Strategies for the newly recruited employees.

Compensation Plan for all the employees under the new service line.

Deliverables:

A Report of not more than 8 Pages.

A PPT of not more than 7 Slides.

P.S. Let’s ride together!

Submission Details:

Deadline: 12:00 PM; 24th February, 2022

Email: hr.thrive2022@gmail.com

Email Subject & File Name: VALXX_Ride pe Chaloge

In case of any queries regarding the task you may contact any of the event heads.

[politicalprof]

On the safety of mail-in and in-person voting ...

For the first time ever, I posted a piece on voting as a supplement to my students. It’s below:

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Many, if not all, of you are facing the prospect of voting in your first presidential election. Presidential election years are always tense in some way or other. This one is much, much stranger than most.

Because it is a strange year, and because so many of you are entering the voting system for the first time ever, I am writing this note to comment on, and hopefully reassure you about, how voting works in America. There is a lot of very, very bad “information” being hyped up online, in the media, and from the White House. I am writing to let you know what the facts of the matter are rather than the amplified claims of conspiracy theorists seeking to undermine the election for their narrow partisan interests.

On mail-in voting

As you probably know, there has been a great deal of commotion recently claiming that mail-in ballots are dangerous, fraudulent, and a risk to democracy. Unfortunately, a great many of these comments have come out of President Trump’s mouth as well as from his Twitter feed. As a few examples, let me offer the following. (There are LOTS of these; this is only a sample.)

·      “Unsolicited Ballots are uncontrollable, totally open to ELECTION INTERFERENCE by foreign countries, and will lead to massive chaos and confusion!” (September 15, 2020).https://apnews.com/article/virus-outbreak-election-2020-ap-fact-check-elections-voting-fraud-and-irregularities-8c5db90960815f91f39fe115579570b4

·      “They’re sending out tens of millions of ballots to everybody, people that didn’t expect them. People are getting inundated with ballots, they’ll be showered with ballots.” (September 18, 2020). https://www.foxnews.com/politics/trump-calls-mail-in-voting-a-scam-says-democrats-are-teeing-up-a-mess

·      “There is NO WAY (ZERO!) that Mail-In Ballots will be anything less than substantially fraudulent. Mail boxes will be robbed, ballots will be forged & even illegally printed out & fraudulently signed. The Governor of California is sending Ballots to millions of people, anyone..... ....living in the state, no matter who they are or how they got there, will get one. That will be followed up with professionals telling all of these people, many of whom have never even thought of voting before, how, and for whom, to vote. This will be a Rigged Election. No way!” May 20, 2020 https://twitter.com/realDonaldTrump/status/1265255845358645254

These claims are false. They are utterly, completely, absolutely, demonstrably false.

·  Ballots ARE NOT sent willy-nilly to whoever for whatever reasons.

·  There are states that are sending out ballots in conformity with existing state laws. https://www.reuters.com/article/uk-factcheck-80-million-unsolicited-ball/fact-check-clarifying-trumps-80-million-unsolicited-ballots-claim-idUSKBN2622SZ

·  Other states, like Illinois, require mail-in ballot applications: (https://abc7chicago.com/politics/how-to-request-an-illinois-mail-in-ballot/6378131/). This is done in accord with state law, and ballots that are returned by mail are subject to checks just like other ballots.

·  In case you don’t know, several states have been doing all mail-in voting for many years. Colorado, Hawaii, Oregon, Utah, and Washington have been conducting their elections by mail for multiple election cycles. They do not have problems with systematic mail-in voting fraud.

Importantly, there is NO evidence that foreign powers or others are trying to steal or have stolen ballots, marked them, and turned them in. https://www.nbcnews.com/politics/donald-trump/ridiculous-claim-trump-pushes-baseless-conspiracy-about-foreign-interference-mail-n1231722

For your reference, there have been several academic and journalistic investigations examining whether there is systematic voting fraud in mail-in elections — including one by the Trump administration. There is no evidence of such fraud. (Occasionally there are specific cases of fraud, but there is no evidence of systematic voting fraud by mail-in voting.) You can find an excellent reference guide to these studies here: https://www.brennancenter.org/our-work/research-reports/resources-voter-fraud-claims Not even the Trump administration has found systematic mail-in voting fraud.

By the way, if you or anyone you know has voted absentee, such votes are conducted by mail — and have been for decades. Mail-in voting is not new, new-fangled, or a departure from US electoral norms and practices.

Ballots cast by mail are legitimate, safe, and important. If you plan to vote by mail, your vote is valid, as are those of your fellow citizens who vote by mail. There is no systematic mail-in voting fraud in the United States.

That said, there ARE RISKS in mail-in voting. In particular, at least two come to mind: the postal service’s delivery problems that were widely reported earlier this summer, and politically motivated claims that counting mail-in ballots, many of which will not be counted until after the November 3 election, is somehow itself a fraudulent act.

·      The issue with delays in the postal service’s delivery of ballots are simple: all states have deadlines that indicate when the election authority has to receive ballots in order for them to count. (In Alaska, for example, that deadline is 10 days after the election. In Illinois, it’s 14 days.) If the mail is too slow, some ballots might not be counted. That’s why the postal delivery issue matters so much.

·      The issue with the politically motivated claims of fraud are more nuanced, and more subtle. Precisely because various states accept ballots after the election date – to accommodate delays in mail delivery, for example – it is entirely possible that the outcome of the presidential election will not be decided on November 3. We might not know the outcome for a week. (I know – crazy, huh?) This is mostly because so-called “swing states” – the ones where the presidential election is close – are ALSO likely to be the ones where all the absentee and mail-in ballots really, really need to be counted. Unfortunately, it is quite possible that numerous groups and actors will amp up the tensions during this period by claiming that ballots are being counted illegally, that illegal ballots are being counted, etc. Some claims seem likely to come from the Trump campaign; many others may well emerge from Russian internet trolls seeking to promote maximum chaos in the United States by exploiting the weaknesses in our election system and the social and political tensions that inflame our society.

Notably, neither of these concerns has anything to do with the security of mail-in ballots.  Instead, they are the result of our haphazard voting system, as well as of politically motivated responses to it.

ALL claims to the contrary are lies. Repetition does not make them true.

On in-person voting

While it has been forgotten in the current environment, in which there are incessant claims that mail-in voting is inherently fraudulent, we should note that President Trump and his supporters used to claim that in-person voting was also fraudulent. (Again, these are only a few of the many examples):

·      “In addition to winning the Electoral College in a landslide, I won the popular vote if you deduct the millions of people who voted illegally.”    — Donald J. Trump (@realDonaldTrump) November 27, 2016 https://twitter.com/realDonaldTrump/status/802972944532209664

·      “Look forward to seeing final results of VoteStand. Gregg Phillips and crew say at least 3,000,000 votes were illegal. We must do better!”  — Donald J. Trump (@realDonaldTrump) January 27, 2017 https://twitter.com/realdonaldtrump/status/824968416486387713?lang=en

·      "In many places, like California, the same person votes many times — you've probably heard about that….  They always like to say 'oh that's a conspiracy theory' — not a conspiracy theory folks. Millions and millions of people." https://www.npr.org/2018/04/05/599868312/fact-check-trump-repeats-voter-fraud-claim-about-california

·      “Serious voter fraud in Virginia, New Hampshire and California - so why isn't the media reporting on this? Serious bias - big problem!” — Donald J. Trump (@realDonaldTrump) November 28, 2016 https://twitter.com/realdonaldtrump/status/803033642545115140?lang=en

These claims are false. They are utterly, completely, absolutely, demonstrably false.

·      One recent study found only 31 cases of in-person voting fraud in a period of 14 years: https://www.washingtonpost.com/news/wonk/wp/2014/08/06/a-comprehensive-investigation-of-voter-impersonation-finds-31-credible-incidents-out-of-one-billion-ballots-cast/?arc404=true 

·      The study previously referenced, https://www.brennancenter.org/our-work/research-reports/resources-voter-fraud-claims, also addresses in-person voting fraud if you’d like to explore further for yourselves.

·      And, as was the case with mail-in voting, even a Trump administration investigation of alleged in-person voting fraud found no systematic in-person voter fraud in the United States. https://apnews.com/article/f5f6a73b2af546ee97816bb35e82c18d

In-person voting fraud happens extremely rarely. It does not happen anywhere near the level President Trump claims.

That said, there ARE risks of in-person voting. At least two come to mind: a reduction in polling places nationwide, and the way delays in voting may stimulate political fights on election night.

There are fewer polling places and fewer poll workers this year than there usually are as fewer people have volunteered to work at polling stations for fear of COVID-19. This may slow voting on election day and may lead to reduced early voting in many places. It is entirely possible that there will be long lines on election day as more people try to vote in fewer locations.

Lines and technical issues at the polling places may also lead to delays in reporting election results since not everyone will necessarily be done voting at the “closing” time for polls. Unfortunately, it may well be the case that people begin claiming such voting delays are the result of corruption or other problems. Even worse, it may well be the case that such claims are generated not only by candidates and their campaigns, but by Russian internet trolls as well – again, seeking to exploit the weaknesses of our election system and the divisions that exist in the United States today.

Notably, neither of these concerns is related to the security of in-person ballots. Instead, they are the result of our haphazard voting system — as well as our sometimes politically motivated response to it.

ALL claims to the contrary are lies. Repetition does not make them true.

Final thoughts

I have been teaching this class in one form or another since 1988. This means I have taught this class, in one form or another, during eight presidential election cycles. 2020 is my ninth such cycle. I have never posted a comment like this to any of my previous classes.

To be clear:

Mail-in voting is safe. It is not prone to corruption or fraud. If you want to vote by mail, please do so, preferably as early as you feel comfortable in order to guarantee your vote has time to be delivered to the appropriate location for counting.

In-person voting is safe. It is not prone to corruption or fraud. If you wish to vote in-person, be assured that your vote will count and that no secret, corrupt storehouse of fraudulent ballots exists that will wipe out its value or importance.

Personally, I plan to vote in-person but early. I plan to do this to reduce pressure on the voting system. I will miss the energy and excitement of voting on election day, but I think it is important to not overtax the voting system on election day proper. But that’s my choice. Others are perfectly valid — and each is fundamentally safe, secure and appropriate.

We’re going to have to be patient and thoughtful on election night. I wish I could offer you better news, but between the problems inherent in our election system, the added stress of COVID-19, and the ways that President Trump has sought to delegitimate our elections system as such, this is going to be a long election night – indeed, at least a long election week.

I realize many of you may have people in your lives who will challenge or reject the points I have raised in this memo. They may insist that all the journalists and academics who have investigated these issues for decades are lying, or are biased, or are manipulating the truth to serve a partisan agenda. Unfortunately, I can’t offer you any way to reassure such people. If someone is dead set on believing that thousands of people who have studied issues for decades are lying about their work, that person is not interested in engaging in a discussion of the facts and the evidence. They are seeking only to confirm their existing point of view. No convincing is possible because nothing can shake their conviction that they are right, and all the professional analysts are wrong. That’s sad, but there is nothing anyone can do about it, at least in the short term.

Instead, I would encourage you to think about the issue this way: If someone claims that mail-in voting is inherently fraudulent, they are telling you, or at least implying, that you shouldn’t vote by mail. If someone claims that in-person voting is inherently fraudulent, they are telling you, or at least implying, that you shouldn’t vote in-person.

In other words, they’re suggesting you just shouldn’t vote.

Don’t listen to them. Failure to vote will NOT fix the problems I have outlined. Neither will just hoping these problems go away. Instead, if you can, you should vote for the candidates you prefer by whatever means you find most appropriate and most convenient.

Vote.

[didanawisgi]

Why we petitioned the FDA to refrain from fully approving any covid-19 vaccine this year

June 8, 2021

We are part of a group of clinicians, scientists, and patient advocates who have lodged a formal “Citizen Petition” with the United States Food and Drug Administration (FDA), asking the agency to delay any consideration of a “full approval” of a covid-19 vaccine. The message of our petition is “slow down and get the science right—there is no legitimate reason to hurry to grant a license to a coronavirus vaccine.” We believe the existing evidence base—both pre- and post-authorization—is simply not mature enough at this point to adequately judge whether clinical benefits outweigh the risks in all populations.

The covid-19 vaccines in widespread use have emergency authorizations (EUA), not actual approvals, a crucial regulatory distinction that reflects major differences in the level of regulatory scrutiny and certainty about the risk-benefit balance.

Our petition doesn’t argue that risks outweigh benefits—or that benefits outweigh risks. Rather, we focus on methods and processes, outlining the many remaining unknowns about safety and effectiveness—and suggest the kinds of studies needed to address the open questions.

If the FDA listens to us, they won’t give serious consideration to approving a covid-19 vaccine until 2022. Our first request is that the FDA require manufacturers to submit data from completed Phase III trials—not interim results. Trials by vaccine manufacturers were designed to follow participants for two years, and should be completed before they are evaluated for full approval, even if they are now unblinded and lack placebo groups. These Phase III trials are not simply efficacy studies; they also are necessary and important safety studies (as thestudy titles say), and all collected data remain invaluable.

We also call on FDA to require a more thorough assessment of spike proteins produced in-situ by the body following vaccination—including studies on their full biodistribution, pharmacokinetics, and tissue-specific toxicities. We ask the FDA to demand manufacturers complete proper biodistribution studies that would be expected of any new drug and request additional studies to better understand the implications of mRNA translation in distant tissues. We call on data demonstrating a thorough investigation of all serious adverse events reported to pharmacovigilance systems, carried out by independent, impartial individuals, and for safety data from individuals receiving more than two vaccine doses, in consideration of plans for future booster shots. We ask the FDA to request necessary studies in specific populations, including those previously infected with SARS-CoV-2, pediatric subjects, and those with immunological or other underlying medical complexities. Given the nature of the novel vaccine platforms, our petition asks for experts in gene therapy to be included among the external committee advising the FDA.

These are several of our major requests. The petition has been signed by a group of 27 clinicians, researchers, and consumer advocates with diverse experiences and thoughts about the pandemic. We all agree that there remain many open, unanswered questions surrounding the efficacy and safety of covid-19 vaccines that must be answered before the FDA gives serious consideration to granting full approval.

These are the reasons why we lodged our petition. There is no need to rush approval to help stop the pandemic because the vaccines already have Emergency Use Authorization. Yet a rushed process is the very possibility that now confronts us. In the past month, Pfizer and Moderna submitted formal applications for “full approval.”

Covid-19 vaccines are already fully accessible to all Americans who want one. EUAs have enabled their widespread use, and can remain in place even after the expiry of the SARS-CoV-2 public health emergency declaration, as is the case for various Zika products. Even without full approval, covid-19 vaccines will remain available for all who want them under EUA.

Some surveys suggest that vaccine hesitancy in the United States is due, in part, to lack of full FDA approval. While approval might lead to increased public confidence in covid-19 vaccines, as well as provide legal support for employer-instituted vaccine mandates, to approve a medical product for these reasons is outside FDA’s regulatory purview. Approval decisions must be driven by the safety and efficacy data. The potential unintended consequences of a rushed approval may contribute to growing mistrust of the US public health and regulatory institutions.

Finally, regarding the elephant in the room: publicly raising any element of hesitation about covid-19 vaccines will be seen by some as irresponsible, stoking unfounded fears in the public’s mind and contributing to the “vaccine hesitancy” problem trumpeted every day. But the alternatives—privately raising concerns or simply remaining silent—are arguably more detrimental to public trust in the long run. Staying silent is not the responsible option.  And the implications of only privately raising concerns to regulatory bodies are murky—most would probably not be acted upon, and if they were, it would promulgate the baggage of insufficient accountability and transparency in decision making.

To us, the Citizen Petition seemed the most responsible approach: voice our concerns in our own words, in a professional and transparent manner, through a formal mechanism that can promote accountability in regulatory decision making.

Approving a covid-19 vaccine now risks setting a precedent of lowered standards for future vaccine approvals. The “FDA approved” seal must represent a high bar—and premature licensure of a covid-19 vaccine could seriously damage public confidence in regulatory authorities, particularly if long-term safety issues were to emerge following licensure. Keeping covid-19 vaccines under EUA regulations would also encourage vaccine manufacturers to continue investing resources in completing the necessary safety and efficacy studies for a potential FDA consideration of full licensure in the future.

For each covid-19 vaccine, the benefits may ultimately outweigh the harms. Or not. Or we may end up in a more nuanced position, finding that benefits outweigh harms for some populations, but not others.  Only time—and better evidence—will tell.  And so it is vital we allow the scientific process the time required to gather and assess the evidence to be confident in the decisions we ultimately have to make.

Our citizen petition is filed under Docket ID FDA-2021-P-0786 on regulations.gov. Anybody can comment on the petition, or read others’ comments, including the FDA’s official reply once it arrives.

See also:

Covid-19 vaccines: In the rush for regulatory approval, do we need more data?

US college covid-19 vaccine mandates don’t consider immunity or pregnancy, and may run foul of the law

Linda Wastila is Professor and Parke-Davis Endowed Chair of Geriatric Pharmacotherapy at the University of Maryland Baltimore School of Pharmacy. She has conducted policy and epidemiological research focusing on intended and unintended outcomes of clinical and policy interventions involving medications and their safety over the past 30 years.

Peter Doshi is an associate professor of pharmaceutical health services research at University of Maryland Baltimore School of Pharmacy and senior editor at The BMJ.  He has been calling for greater independence and transparency in covid-19 vaccine related decision making.

Hamid Merchant is a subject lead in pharmacy at The University of Huddersfield and has experience in pharmaceutical research and development both from industry and academia. His clinical knowledge and expertise in pharmaceutical formulation helps in understanding the clinical and therapeutic principles underpinning drug delivery and the science of dosage-form design.

Kim Witczak is a global drug safety advocate with over 25 years of advertising and marketing experience. She co-founded Woodymatters, an organization started after the death of her husband due to undisclosed side effects of antidepressants. Kim is currently Consumer Representative on the FDA Psychopharmacologic Drugs Advisory Committee.

Competing interests: PD has received travel funds from the European Respiratory Society (2012) and Uppsala Monitoring Center (2018); grants from the FDA (through University of Maryland M-CERSI; 2020), Laura and John Arnold Foundation (2017-22), American Association of Colleges of Pharmacy (2015), Patient-Centered Outcomes Research Institute (2014-16), Cochrane Methods Innovations Fund (2016-18), and UK National Institute for Health Research (2011-14); was an unpaid IMEDS steering committee member at the Reagan-Udall Foundation for the FDA (2016-20), and is an editor at The BMJ. None further declared.

The views and opinions expressed here are those of the authors and do not necessarily reflect official policy or position of the University of Maryland or the University of Huddersfield.

Editor’s note 30 July 2021: The links in this article have been updated to reflect the re-filing of this petition under the group name Coalition Advocating for Adequately Licensed Medicines (CAALM), which has been assigned a new docket number (FDA-2021-P-0786).

[koreaunderground]

(2020/09/06) New data leak from the Pentagon biolaboratory in Georgia

[armswatch.com][1]

  [1]: <https://armswatch.com/new-data-leak-from-the-pentagon-biolaboratory-in-georgia/>

# New data leak from the Pentagon biolaboratory in Georgia - Arms Watch

Dilyana Gaytandzhieva

14-17 minutes

* * *

[![][2]][3]The Lugar Center is a $161 million Pentagon-funded biolaboratory in Georgia’s capital Tbilisi (photo: Dilyana Gaytandzhieva)

  [2]: https://armswatch.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/09/Lugar-Center-696x392.jpg (Lugar Center)   [3]: <https://armswatch.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/09/Lugar-Center.jpg>

Leaked e-mails between the Lugar Center, the Pentagon biolaboratory in Tbilisi, the US Embassy to Georgia and the Georgian Ministry of Health reveal new information about the [$161 million][4] secretive US Government biological research program in this former Soviet country.

  [4]: <https://govtribe.com/award/federal-contract-award/delivery-order-hdtra108d0008-0002>

The data allegedly originating from the Ministry of Health of Georgia has been published anonymously on Twitter and on a forum for database leaks – Raidforums. Among the documents there are internal memos, official letters and detailed information about US government projects at the Lugar Center, funding and foreign business trips.

Arms Watch volunteers have analyzed the leaked data and discovered very interesting facts about the Center’s recent activities.

The Pentagon has planned to turn Georgia into its largest biological research center overseas, combining its military resources with the resources of the US Centers for Disease Control (CDC) in Georgia.

Furthermore, the number of US projects and grants have increased as well as the number of US scientists deployed to the Lugar Center. The Pentagon-funded facility is planned to temporarily accommodate 16 CDC specialists from Atlanta, for whom Georgia will build a separate BSL-2 laboratory, administrative building and a campus near the Lugar Center. In addition, Georgia will become a regional CDC hub for Eastern Europe and Central Asia, internal documents reveal.

The Lugar Center already sparked controversy about possible dual-use research in 2018 when [leaked documents][5] revealed that US diplomats in Georgia were involved in the trafficking of frozen human blood and pathogens for a secret military program.

  [5]: <http://dilyana.bg/us-diplomats-involved-in-trafficking-of-human-blood-and-pathogens-for-secret-military-program/>

The Lugar Center is just one of the many [Pentagon biolaboratories in 25 countries][6] across the world. They are funded by the US Defense Threat Reduction Agency (DTRA) under a [$ 2.1 billion military program – Cooperative Biological Engagement Program (CBEP)][7], and are located in former Soviet Union countries such as Georgia (the motherland of former Soviet leader Joseph Stalin) and Ukraine, the Middle East, South East Asia and Africa.

  [6]: <http://dilyana.bg/the-pentagon-bio-weapons/>   [7]: <https://fas.org/sgp/crs/nuke/R43143.pdf>

**Pentagon research on bioterrorism agents at the Lugar Center**

US military scientists have been deployed to Georgia for research on bioterrorism agents at the Lugar Center, according to the new data leak. [These bio-agents][8] have the potential to be aerosolized and used as bioweapons. Among them anthrax, tularemia, Brucella, Crimean-Congo Hemorrhagic Fever, Hantavirus, Y. pestis (causing the disease plague).

  [8]: <https://emergency.cdc.gov/agent/agentlist-category.asp>

The US military biological research projects in Georgia have been funded by the Defense Threat Reduction Agency (DTRA). According to internal data, American and Georgian scientists are currently working on the following DTRA projects in the Lugar Center:

**Project 1059:** **Zoonotic Infections with Fever and Skin Injuries in Georgia**

The project includes isolation of new orthopoxviruses in humans, rodents, domestic and wild animals in Georgia, and collection of rodents (as a natural reservoir for this virus) for their further study.

Duration: 01/11/2015-31/10/2018 (extended to 2020)

Funding: $702,343

**Project 1060:** **Characterization of the Georgian National Center for Disease Control (NCDC) Strain Repository by New Generation Sequencing**

Description: characterization and genome research on 100 strains from four endemic species: Y. pestis (causing the disease plague), B. anthracis (anthrax), Brucella, and F. tularensis (causing the disease tularemia).

Duration: 01/11/2015-31/10/2018

Funding: $ 518,409

**Project 1439:** **Molecular Virological Research in Georgia**

Description and objectives:

 * Identify and characterize Hantavirus and Crimean-Congo hemorrhagic fever virus (CCHFV) strains by molecular methods;  * Characterize and study genetic diversity of Crimean-Congo hemorrhagic fever virus and hantavirus strains isolated from rodents and ectoparasites;  * Serological examination of febrile patients with Crimean-Congo hemorrhagic fever and hemorrhagic fever with renal syndrome;  * Collection of rodents and ectoparasites (ticks, fleas);

Duration: 16/08/2017-15/08/2021

Funding: $612,614

**Project 1497:** **Molecular Epidemiology and Ecology of Yersinia Species in Georgia and Azerbaijan**

Description: 1) Ecological research on rodents in Kerb on the Georgian-Azerbaijani border 2) Isolation of different strains of Yersinia; 3) Molecular screening of collected rodent and flea samples. 4) A comparative analysis of the genomes of Yersinia strains obtained during the fieldwork; 5) Spatial analysis of the distribution of Yersinia strains.

Duration: 01/09/2017-31/08/2018 (extended to 2022)

Funding: $134,090.00

**Project 1742:** **Risks of bat-borne zoonotic diseases in Western Asia**

Duration: 24/10/2018-23 /10/2019

Funding: $71,500[![][9]][10]

  [9]: https://armswatch.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/09/EcoHealth-Alliance-Project-1024x820.jpg   [10]: <https://armswatch.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/09/EcoHealth-Alliance-Project.jpg>

In 2017 the US Defense Threat Reduction Agency (DTRA) launched a [$6.5 million project on bats and coronaviruses][11] in Western Asia (Georgia, Armenia, Azerbaijan, Turkey and Jordan) with the Lugar Center being the local laboratory for this genetic research. The duration of the program is 5 years and has been implemented by the non-profit [US organisation Eco Health Alliance.][12]

  [11]: <https://www.usaspending.gov/#/award/ASST_NON_HDTRA11710064_9761>   [12]: <https://www.wabnet.org/research/coronavirus-project/>

The project’s objectives are: 1. Capture and non-lethally sample 5,000 bats in 5-year period (2017-2022) 2. Collect 20,000 samples (i.e. oral, rectal swabs and/or feces, and blood) and screen for coronaviruses using consensus PCR at regional labs in Georgia and Jordan. According to [the project presentation][13], Eco Health Alliance already sampled 270 bats of 9 species in three Western Asian countries: 90 individual bats in Turkey (Aug 2018), Georgia (Sept 2018), and Jordan (Oct 2018).

  [13]: <https://www.researchgate.net/publication/328676300_Bats_and_Viruses_in_Western_Asia_A_Model_for_One_Health_Surveillance_using_Research_Networks>

_EcoHealth Alliance and Georgian scientists[sampling a bat][14] for coronavirus research in 2018 (Facebook, Keti Sidamonidze)_

  [14]: <https://www.facebook.com/847064690/videos/pcb.10158498937989691/10158498942329691>

Coincidentally, the same Pentagon contractor tasked with the US DoD bat-research program – Eco Health Alliance, USA, also collected bats and isolated coronaviruses along with Chinese scientists at the Wuhan Institute of Virology. EcoHealth Alliance received a [$3.7 million grant][15] from the US National Institutes of Health (NIH) to collect and study coronaviruses in bats in China from 2014 to 2019.

  [15]: <https://taggs.hhs.gov/Detail/AwardDetail?arg_AwardNum=R01AI110964&arg_ProgOfficeCode=104>

**Project 1911:** **Ricketsia and Coxelia infection surveillance in Georgia and Azerbaijan** (US federal grant [HDTRA1-19-1-0042][16] awarded to NCDC-Georgia)

  [16]: <https://govtribe.com/award/federal-grant-award/project-grant-hdtra11910042>

Duration: 23/09/2019 – 22/09/2022

Funding: $945,000

Despite the official claims of Georgia and USA that the Lugar Center is under the full control of the government of this Caucasus country internal documents show otherwise. Not only has the Pentagon funded biological research projects but it has also paid all the expenses for security and maintenance including utility bills – water, gas, electricity, and cleaning. Tasked with the operational and scientific support to the Lugar Center is USAMRU-Georgia, a special unit deployed to Georgia by the Walter Reed Army Institute of Research (WRAIR). WRAIR has paid: $524,625 (2016-2018), $650,000 (2017-2019) and $1,062,400 (2017-2021) for utility bills, and a further $158,050 (2016-2017) and $322,000 (2018-2021) for security guards.

The Pentagon has also awarded a private US contractor, Technology Management Company (TMC) an [$8 million contract][17] for science services to support USAMRU-Georgia in the Lugar Center (2016-2021).

  [17]: <https://govtribe.com/award/federal-idv-award/indefinite-delivery-contract-w81xwh16d0022>

WRAIR projects at the Lugar Center

**Tularemia research on soldiers**

The Pentagon unit USAMRU-Georgia has conducted extensive research on tularemia involving Georgian soldiers, [scientific papers][18] reveal.

  [18]: <https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC6453017/>

Tularemia is a rare infectious disease that typically attacks the skin, eyes, lymph nodes and lungs. Tularemia, also called rabbit fever or deer fly fever, is caused by the bacterium Francisella tularensis. It _is categorized as_[a category A bioterrorism agent][19]. Tularemia was weaponized for mass aerosol dissemination by the US Army in the past, according to a recently declassified military report.

  [19]: <https://emergency.cdc.gov/agent/agentlist-category.asp>

[![][20]][21]

  [20]: https://armswatch.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/09/Tularemia1.png   [21]: <https://armswatch.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/09/Tularemia1.png>

[![][22]][23]

  [22]: https://armswatch.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/09/Tularemia2.png   [23]: <https://armswatch.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/09/Tularemia2.png>

_Tularemia is one of the bio-weapons that the US Army developed in the past. Source:[1981 ][24][US Army Report][24]_

  [24]: <http://www.thesmokinggun.com/file/entomological-weapons>

900 volunteers (soldiers and civilians) were recruited for the [DTRA project GG-19][25] “Epidemiology and Ecology of Tularemia in Georgia” from 2014 to 2017. Blood samples were collected from those volunteers and tested for tularemia.

  [25]: <https://ncdc.ge/Handlers/GetFile.ashx?ID=af53c8f1-7461-41b2-b5ff-89140c6e2188>

According to the study, 10 soldiers (2%) of the 500 solders tested had antibodies for F. tularensis. The seropositive soldiers were men, the majority of whom were between 30 and 39 years of age. Seven cases had current residences in known endemic areas (i.e. Kakheti, Samtskhe-Javakheti, Kvemo Kartli, Shida Kartli, and Tbilisi). Three were from areas without previously known F. tularensis transmission (i.e. Imereti).

Of the 783 residents approached to participate in this study, 35 (5.0%) volunteers had antibodies to _F. tularensis_.

While the civilian volunteers were all residents of two areas with naturally occurring foci of tularemia in Georgia, the military personnel were soldiers visiting Georgia’s military hospital. The study does not provide any explanation as to why soldiers were enrolled in this project nor how exactly they contracted the disease in the army.

Project GG-19: Tularemia in Georgia

Furthermore, Georgia has asked the US Embassy for assistance for the construction of a second military hospital in the country, according to leaked correspondence between local health officials and the US Embassy to Tbilisi.

[![][26]][27]

  [26]: https://armswatch.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/09/New-Military-Hospital-page-001-scaled.jpg   [27]: <https://armswatch.com/new-data-leak-from-the-pentagon-biolaboratory-in-georgia/new-military-hospital-page-001/>

[![][28]][29]

  [28]: https://armswatch.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/09/New-Military-Hospital-page-002-scaled.jpg   [29]: <https://armswatch.com/new-data-leak-from-the-pentagon-biolaboratory-in-georgia/new-military-hospital-page-002/>

Below is Google translation in English of this correspondence:

[![][30]][31]

  [30]: https://armswatch.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/09/Translation.jpg   [31]: <https://armswatch.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/09/Translation.jpg>

[![][32]][33]

  [32]: https://armswatch.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/09/Translation-page1.jpg   [33]: <https://armswatch.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/09/Translation-page1.jpg>

[![][34]][35]

  [34]: https://armswatch.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/09/Translation-page2.jpg   [35]: <https://armswatch.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/09/Translation-page2.jpg>

**CDC regional hub**

The US Government has launched a parallel civil program in Georgia implemented by the US Centers for Disease Control (CDC). Leaked e-mails between the US Embassy to Tbilisi and Georgian health officials reveal that CDC has planned to set up a regional office for Eastern Europe and Central Asia in Georgia. The US Embassy and CDC have requested additional office space for 16 employees. Currently the CDC staff are working inside the Lugar Center.

CDC regional hub for Eastern Europe and Central Asia in Georgia

Interestingly, the Georgian health officials do not ask about any further information or clarification as to what this new foreign hub is going to do in their own country. Instead, Georgia’s Ministry of Health has planned the construction of a new BSL-2 laboratory, conference hall and campus near the Lugar Center with a loan from the European Investment Bank, according to a letter to the finance minister of Georgia leaked on Raidforums.

[![][36]][37] [![][38]][39]

  [36]: https://armswatch.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/09/Capture1.jpg   [37]: <https://armswatch.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/09/Capture1.jpg>   [38]: https://armswatch.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/09/Capture2.jpg   [39]: <https://armswatch.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/09/Capture2.jpg>

Arms Watch could not independently verify the authenticity of this letter as we did not find it in the leaked files. We have further analyzed the ministry’s internal data and discovered the following CDC projects in Georgia:

**Project 1320: Antimicrobial Resistance Project**

Duration: 01/09/2016 -29/09/2020

Funding: $153,492.40

**Project 1440:** **Introducing or Expanding the Use of Influenza Vaccine Outside the United States**

Duration: 30/09/2016 – 29/09/2019

Funding: $750,000

**Project 1441:** **Influenza Surveillance Outside the United States**

Duration: 30/09 / 16-29 / 09/21

Funding: $250,000

**Project 1446: Strengthening New Generation Sequencing Capacities for Hepatitis C Surveillance in Georgia**

Duration: 01/07/2017-30 /06/2018

Funding: $22,000

**Project 1447:** **Samples collection under the Hepatitis C Elimination Program in Georgia – Bio-Bank**

Objective: The aim of the project is to store samples collected under the Hepatitis C program for future scientific work

 * 20,000 plasma/serum samples  * 6,000 serum samples from the 2015 National Seroprevalence Survey of Hepatitis C and B  * 1,000 blood samples from blood banks  * 500 blood samples from patients with terminal liver disease

Duration: 01/07/2017-30/06/2018

**Project 1456:** **Strengthening the micronutrient deficit monitoring system in Georgia**

Duration: 01/09/2017 – 31/08/2018

Funding: $92,875

**Project 1457:** **Genetic peculiarities of hepatitis C virus in Georgia and its role in the Georgian Hepatitis C elimination program**

Objective: Evaluate morbidity and mortality associated with Hepatitis C virus

Duration: 01/09/2017-31/08/2018

Funding: $127,125

**Project 1532:** **Strengthening, detection, response and prevention of diarrhea outbreaks in Georgia**

Duration: 30/09/2017 -29/09/2020

Funding: $40,000

**Project 1533:** **Strengthening Immunization and Vaccination Control System**

Duration: 30/09/2017 – 29/09/2020

Funding: $67,220.00

**Project 1534: Respiratory Disease Surveillance**

Duration: 30/09/2017 – 29/09/2020

Funding: $80,000.00

**Project 1535:** **Enterovirus surveillance Georgia**

Duration: 30/09/2017 -29/ 09/2020

Funding: $45,000

**Project 1536:** **National Laboratory Quality Control Program in Georgia**

Duration: 30/09/2017 -29 /09/2020

Funding: $56,140

**Project 1537:** **South Caucasus Field Epidemiology and Laboratory Training Program**

Duration: 30/09/2017 -29 /09/2020

Funding: $150,000

**Project 1538: Fever of unknown etiology caused by arboviruses in the Black Sea region** – clinical specimens will be shipped to the CDC Laboratory for analyses

Duration: 30/09/2017 – 29/09/2020

Funding: $100,360

In conclusion, the United States has been consistently developing its laboratory facilities in the Caucasus. Why has the US Government spent billions of dollars on such biolaboratories and projects abroad instead on the health of its own citizens?

Scientists with diplomatic immunity

Furthermore, why have [US scientists working at the Lugar Center been given diplomatic status and immunity][40] to research deadly pathogens and insects in Georgia? Diplomatic immunity is a principle of international law by which foreign government officials are not subject to the jurisdiction of local courts and other authorities for their activities. Hence, US scientists could even perform illegal experiments in Georgia without being prosecuted as they have diplomatic immunity.

  [40]: <https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=_8hQi2Zv1L0&t=12s>

_P.S. Arms Watch is currently analyzing all leaked data. Due to the large volume of information, we will publish more documents in another article soon. If you want to support Arms Watch, please go to the_[ _Donation_][41] _page or_[ _Become Volunteer_][42] _. Thank you!_

  [41]: <https://armswatch.com/donate/>   [42]: <https://armswatch.com/become-volunteer/>