Global Pulse

作者： admin

  • Novel system tracks sandstorms precisely

    Novel system tracks sandstorms precisely

    China has initiated trial operations for an innovative artificial intelligence system that dramatically enhances sand and dust storm forecasting capabilities. Developed by researchers at the Chinese Academy of Meteorological Sciences’ Lanzhou Institute of Arid Meteorology, the advanced model commenced testing in Gansu province during late November 2025.

    The groundbreaking system represents a quantum leap in meteorological technology, improving spatial resolution from 50 kilometers to just 5 kilometers through sophisticated downscaling techniques. This enhancement addresses critical limitations in previous AI models that, while effective for large-scale regional tracking, lacked the precision necessary for localized forecasting and public safety applications in Northwest China’s vulnerable regions.

    Beyond precision, the system delivers unprecedented processing speed. Unlike traditional physics-based models that require supercomputers and extensive processing times, this AI-powered solution operates on standard GPU hardware, generating comprehensive global five-day predictions in under sixty seconds. With eight daily updates, meteorologists now possess significantly more opportunities to monitor and respond to developing storm events.

    Dr. Che Huizheng, a researcher at the academy, emphasized the transformative nature of this development: “This represents a paradigm shift not merely in velocity but in accessibility. We can now execute sophisticated dust forecasts using conventional desktop computing equipment.”

    The system’s capabilities were demonstrated during a late November dust event originating in the southern Xinjiang basin. The AI model successfully detected warning signals two to three days in advance and provided near real-time updates on November 22nd that closely correlated with ground observations as the plume expanded across Ningxia Hui Autonomous Region, Qinghai, Gansu, and other northern territories.

    According to researcher Yue Ping, spring remains the most active period for sandstorm formation due to exposed soil conditions and frequent cold-air activity. Summer and autumn events, primarily driven by long-range transport, present continued forecasting challenges that the new system aims to address through higher-resolution optical data, mass concentration metrics for multiple aerosol types, and dozens of continuously refreshed environmental indicators.

    Meteorological experts suggest the technology could establish a template for international cooperation in regions where dust storms regularly cross national boundaries. The reduced hardware requirements may enable meteorological agencies across Central Asia, North Africa, and the Middle East to implement similar early-warning systems, potentially transforming regional environmental monitoring capabilities.

  • Large, unmanned jet makes maiden flight

    Large, unmanned jet makes maiden flight

    China’s aviation sector achieved a significant technological milestone on Thursday, December 12, 2025, with the successful maiden flight of the Jiutian (High Sky), a large multifunctional unmanned jet aircraft. The prototype conducted its inaugural flight from an airport in Pucheng, Shaanxi Province, completing a brief aerial demonstration before returning safely to its departure point.

    Developed by the AVIC First Aircraft Institute for State-owned Shaanxi Unmanned Equipment Technology, the Jiutian represents a sophisticated advancement in unmanned aerial systems. The aircraft measures 16.4 meters in length with an impressive 25-meter wingspan, boasting a maximum takeoff weight of 16 metric tons and a payload capacity of up to 6 tons. With an operational ceiling of 15 kilometers and an endurance of 12 hours or 7,000 kilometers per mission, the platform demonstrates remarkable range and altitude capabilities.

    The Jiutian’s modular design architecture enables exceptional mission flexibility, allowing for various payload configurations including guided munitions, air-to-air missiles, cruise missiles, and loitering munitions. A distinctive feature is its compartmentalized internal bay, capable of housing over 100 loitering munitions or small attack drones, effectively functioning as a ‘mothership’ for drone swarm operations.

    Beyond military applications, the unmanned jet excels in civilian roles including heavy cargo transportation to remote mountainous regions and offshore islands, emergency communications restoration, disaster relief operations, geographic mapping, mineral surveys, cultural relic documentation, maritime patrol, and forest fire suppression.

    According to Wang Yanan, Chief Editor of Aerospace Knowledge magazine, the Jiutian’s substantial size and payload capacity enable extended operations behind enemy air defenses. The platform can perform long-range detection and tracking of naval targets followed by anti-ship missile engagements, or deploy drone swarms to overwhelm defensive systems in asymmetric warfare scenarios. Multiple Jiutian aircraft can operate collaboratively in fleet formations for enhanced mission effectiveness.

    The Jiutian was initially unveiled to the international community at the 15th China International Aviation and Aerospace Exhibition in Zhuhai, Guangdong Province, in November 2024. Aviation Industry Corp of China (AVIC), the nation’s premier aircraft manufacturer, confirmed that the maiden flight successfully validated the drone’s fundamental design parameters and basic flight performance characteristics.

  • New method devised to save Xizang’s poplar trees from canker

    New method devised to save Xizang’s poplar trees from canker

    Scientists from the Chinese Academy of Sciences have pioneered an innovative ecological defense system to protect the Qinghai-Tibet Plateau’s crucial poplar populations from devastating canker disease. Their integrated biocontrol strategy has demonstrated remarkable effectiveness, achieving sustained disease suppression rates exceeding 80% in year-long field trials across Tibet Autonomous Region.

    The research initiative, spanning three years and approximately 35 hectares of poplar plantations, addressed a critical threat to the region’s ecological restoration efforts. Poplars constitute 45% of Tibet’s planted forest area and serve as fundamental components in sand stabilization and carbon sequestration programs. Research confirms these plantations along the Yarlung Zangbo River capture 20-30 metric tons of carbon per hectare, matching national averages despite extreme high-altitude conditions.

    Professor Zhang Gengxin of the Institute of Tibetan Plateau Research explained the environmental challenges: “The combination of low temperatures, drought conditions and intense ultraviolet radiation creates exceptional vulnerability to fungal pathogens that cause bark necrosis, branch failure and complete tree mortality.”

    The scientific breakthrough emerged from meticulous study of diseased tree bark, where researchers isolated antagonistic bacteria with both disease-resistant properties and growth-promoting capabilities. This biological control agent proved highly effective in laboratory and field inoculation experiments. The team discovered optimal results emerged when combining the biocontrol treatment with physical interventions including trunk whitewashing using calcium carbonate and strategic pruning of infected sections.

    Professor Zhang Sheng of Sichuan University’s College of Life Sciences emphasized the importance of ecological diversity: “Mixed-species stands create more diverse soil microbiomes that enhance nitrogen and phosphorus availability through resource complementarity and niche differentiation.”

    Project leader Liang Eryuan highlighted the solution’s environmental advantages: “Our biocontrol agent is not only cost-effective compared to chemical alternatives but poses minimal risk to the plateau’s fragile ecosystems. The methodologies developed provide sustainable models for green plantation management that could benefit forest health globally.”

    The technology’s impending industrialization promises significant enhancements to plantation forest development, potentially strengthening ecological resilience and carbon sink capacity throughout high-altitude regions.

  • Famous crocodile wrangler jailed for evidence tampering

    Famous crocodile wrangler jailed for evidence tampering

    Renowned crocodile wrangler and television personality Matt Wright has been sentenced to five months imprisonment for evidence tampering following a tragic helicopter crash that resulted in the death of his co-star and left the pilot permanently disabled. The Northern Territory Supreme Court delivered the verdict on Friday, concluding a high-profile case that has captivated Australian media.

    Acting Justice Alan Blow imposed a 10-month prison term, with half suspended, and levied an additional A$5,000 fine against the former Netflix star. The sentence comes after Wright’s August conviction for providing false statements to law enforcement and attempting to influence a hospitalized witness regarding the February 2022 incident in Arnhem Land.

    The judicial proceedings revealed disturbing details about aviation practices within the Northern Territory’s helicopter community. Evidence presented during the month-long trial included covert recordings demonstrating Wright’s attempts to manipulate flight records and fuel documentation. Prosecutors successfully argued that Wright engaged in systematic falsification of maintenance logs to avoid regulatory requirements.

    The catastrophic accident claimed the life of Chris ‘Willow’ Wilson, Wright’s co-star on ‘Outback Wrangler,’ who fell 25 meters to his death after being suspended in a sling during crocodile egg collection. Pilot Sebastian Robinson sustained severe injuries including punctured lungs and traumatic brain damage, leaving him paralyzed from the waist down.

    Justice Blow noted the absence of remorse in Wright’s conduct while acknowledging his low likelihood of reoffending. The court received numerous character references describing Wright’s community contributions, which the judge characterized as ‘the most impressive I’ve ever seen.’

    The case exposed widespread industry misconduct, with testimony indicating that disconnecting flight hour recorders—known as ‘popping the clock’—was commonplace among Northern Territory helicopter operators. While the defense acknowledged this practice was prevalent, they maintained Wright’s actions did not constitute perversion of justice.

    Wright’s legal team has indicated plans to appeal the conviction, arguing that his initial statements about fuel levels were intended to ‘protect a mate’ rather than obstruct investigation. The third charge regarding alleged destruction of maintenance records resulted in a hung jury and remains under judicial consideration.

    The sentencing concludes a case that examined not just the actions of one individual but revealed systemic issues within specialized aviation operations, while emphasizing that the proceedings did not determine the actual cause of the fatal crash itself.

  • Clair Obscur sweeps The Game Awards with nine wins

    Clair Obscur sweeps The Game Awards with nine wins

    In a spectacular triumph for the gaming industry, Clair Obscur: Expedition 33 achieved an unprecedented victory at the 2025 Game Awards ceremony in Los Angeles. The French-developed role-playing game secured the coveted Game of the Year award alongside eight additional honors, setting a new benchmark for recognition in the industry’s most prestigious event.

    Developed by Sandfall Interactive—a studio formed by former Ubisoft employees pursuing their creative vision—Clair Obscur captivated audiences with its emotionally resonant narrative and innovative turn-based combat system. The game presents a distinctive fantasy world where an enigmatic entity known as The Paintress imposes an age ceiling on humanity, following adventurers determined to challenge this supernatural constraint.

    The awards ceremony witnessed director Guillaume Broche’s heartfelt acceptance speech, where he acknowledged his team’s dedication and humorously credited YouTube tutorial creators as ‘unsung heroes’ who guided their development journey. The game’s exceptional performance included victories in Best Narrative, Best Music, Best Role-Playing Game, and Best Independent Game categories.

    Despite fierce competition from anticipated titles including Death Stranding 2, Donkey Kong Bananza, and Hades 2, Clair Obscur emerged as the night’s dominant force. The game’s composer, Lorien Testard, claimed Best Score honors for his debut video game soundtrack, originally discovered through SoundCloud submissions.

    Beyond the awards, the event served as a platform for major industry revelations. Attendees received first glimpses of two new Tomb Raider installments, Larian Studios’ RPG Divinity, and fresh footage from Resident Evil 9. The ceremony also addressed ongoing industry challenges, including widespread layoffs and calls for greater recognition of developmental achievements amid criticisms of the awards’ commercial focus.

    While Battlefield 6 secured Best Audio Design and Wuthering Waves won the Player’s Voice category, Clair Obscur’s near-total dominance underscored a significant shift toward independent development achieving mainstream critical acclaim.

  • China’s 2026 stimulus plan isn’t exports, it’s economic reform

    China’s 2026 stimulus plan isn’t exports, it’s economic reform

    TOKYO — China’s economic trajectory is undergoing a fundamental recalibration as President Xi Jinping’s administration confronts the limitations of its export-oriented growth model. Despite achieving a remarkable $1 trillion trade surplus within 11 months and securing a 12-month delay in trade negotiations with the Trump administration, Chinese leadership recognizes that external demand cannot sustainably deliver the 5% growth target for 2026.

    The Politburo’s recent meeting in Beijing signaled a strategic shift toward domestic-driven growth, emphasizing the critical need to mobilize approximately $22 trillion in household savings to combat deflationary pressures. The leadership’s directive to ‘adhere to domestic demand as the main driver and build a strong domestic market’ represents a significant policy reorientation.

    Central to this new approach is Xi’s concept of ‘new productive forces,’ first introduced in 2023, which focuses on technological enhancement of manufacturing efficiency rather than reducing industrial output. This strategy aligns with the Politburo’s emphasis on ‘cross-cyclical’ policies prioritizing long-term stability over short-term gains.

    While monetary easing is anticipated—with Societe Generale economist Wei Yao predicting record-low bond yields—the core growth strategy centers on supply-side reforms. However, economists caution about implementation challenges. Lizzi Lee of the Asia Society Policy Institute notes: ‘Aligning fiscal expansion with structural reform, strengthening household demand without amplifying financial vulnerabilities, and advancing industrial upgrading while preserving market discipline will be central to navigating China’s economic transition.’

    The reform agenda addresses multiple structural weaknesses: resolving the property crisis, reducing economic opacity, leveling playing fields for private enterprises, tackling youth unemployment, managing local government debt, and developing social safety nets to reduce precautionary savings.

    Historical context reveals repeated delays in market-oriented reforms since 2013, when Xi initially promised to let market forces play a ‘decisive role.’ Previous crises, including the 2015 market crash, COVID-19 lockdowns, and the tech sector crackdown, have consistently diverted attention from structural reforms.

    Analysts suggest abandoning annual GDP targets could facilitate a genuine transition toward sustainable growth. While China has made progress in deleveraging and achieved technology successes through initiatives like ‘Made in China 2025,’ the underlying economy remains constrained by unfinished reforms.

    The external environment adds complexity, with potential policy shifts from the Trump administration representing a significant uncertainty. As fund manager Cheng Hao observes, there are concerns that current policies might represent ‘old wine in new bottles,’ highlighting the challenge of demonstrating genuine reform progress amid global economic uncertainties.

  • Nation’s digital heft in UAE spotlight

    Nation’s digital heft in UAE spotlight

    ABU DHABI—China’s technological and cultural prowess took center stage at the BRIDGE Summit 2025 this week as Asia’s premier gaming exhibition, ChinaJoy, made its Middle Eastern debut in the United Arab Emirates capital. The event showcased China’s emerging role as a global innovator blending artificial intelligence, interactive entertainment, and cultural storytelling into a unified digital ecosystem.

    The three-day conference, running from December 9-11, attracted over 60,000 participants from across media and entertainment industries. The China-Joy pavilion featured 19 exhibitors and internationally celebrated titles including Black Myth: Wukong and Delta Force, demonstrating China’s integrated approach to technology and cultural content.

    Yu Kun, head of the China-Joy pavilion, described the event as more than an exhibition—but rather a ‘proof of concept’ for cultural co-creation. ‘We’re building a bridge between Chinese technological strength and Middle Eastern cultural preferences,’ Yu stated, emphasizing gaming’s unique capacity for cultural export through immersive experiences.

    The expansion aligns with China’s established dominance in digital content exports. Market analyst AppsFlyer reports China solidified its position as the world’s largest game exporter in the first half of 2025, accounting for 32.6% of global game exports.

    Middle Eastern audiences responded enthusiastically to the Chinese offerings. Emirati gamer Basem Sheikha noted, ‘Black Myth: Wukong blends gameplay with Chinese culture brilliantly. I’ve recommended it to many friends, and they all love it.’

    Regional industry leaders recognized the strategic significance of the partnership. Jamal Mohammed Obaid Al Kaabi, director-general of the UAE National Media Office, stated that bringing ChinaJoy to Abu Dhabi ‘opens a new channel for partnerships among China, the UAE and global gaming leaders.’

    The collaboration extends beyond entertainment into economic opportunity. According to market researcher Niko Partners, Saudi Arabia, the UAE and Egypt together will host 85.8 million gamers generating $3.1 billion in game revenue by 2025, with UAE players expected to exceed $100 in average annual revenue per user by 2029.

    Mohammed Ali Alblooshi of twofour54, an Abu Dhabi government-backed media production company, observed: ‘Asian influence lies in merging tech innovation with cultural diversity. Chinese gaming proves local narratives can resonate globally. China could be the tech enabler and content inspiration.’

    The event also highlighted broader technological convergence, with the Khaleej Times reporting that 67% of creators now use AI tools, while cross-sector collaborations have surged 340% over three years.

    Emirati media expert Mayed Alsakhawi noted the natural synergy between the partners: ‘China provides the tech and content, and the UAE offers geographic access and a flexible regulatory environment. Future media will bring more co-productions, cultural exchanges and business models that deepen mutual understanding.’

  • New academy to sharpen skills of riders

    New academy to sharpen skills of riders

    In a groundbreaking initiative for China’s gig economy, the nation’s first dedicated vocational academy for delivery riders officially opened in Guangdong province on Thursday. The Modern Grassroots Workers Academy—collaboratively established by the Guangdong Provincial Education Department and e-commerce titan JD—represents a strategic effort to professionalize the rapidly expanding courier workforce.

    Housed at Guangzhou Polytechnic University with satellite training centers across the province, the institution aims to equip over 100,000 full-time delivery personnel with enhanced skills within the next three years. The curriculum addresses both immediate practical needs and future technological shifts, offering courses in food safety protocols, mental wellness, English communication, and emerging delivery technologies including drone operation.

    Lin Rupeng, Director of Guangdong’s Education Department, emphasized the academy’s role in bridging educational offerings with industrial demands. “Through the enabling power of education, we are opening new pathways for rider career development while creating a more dynamic model of industry-education integration,” he stated.

    The initiative responds to the growing significance of China’s 84 million workers in new employment forms—including delivery riders, live-stream sellers, and ride-hailing drivers—who have become essential to urban ecosystems. JD executive Feng Lei clarified that despite automation advances, drones and robotics would complement rather than replace human workers. “These technologies raise skill requirements rather than eliminate the need for riders,” she noted, explaining that personnel must now operate intelligent order systems and collaborate with automated devices.

    Academic expert Feng Lipan from South China University of Technology observed that the academy would help transform public perception of delivery work from low-skilled labor to a technically proficient occupation. The move parallels similar upskilling efforts nationwide, including Jiangsu province’s recent three-year action plan for workers in new employment forms.

  • Ten photos from across China: Dec 5 – 11

    Ten photos from across China: Dec 5 – 11

    Between December 5th and 11th, 2025, a series of compelling photographs emerged from across China, painting a vibrant picture of the nation’s economic, cultural, and social landscape. These images, curated and released by China Daily, document a week of significant activity and progress.

    The visual narrative begins in the southwestern city of Pu’er, Yunnan province, where the 2025 China (Pu’er) International Coffee Expo and Pu’er Tea Expo & Trade Fair commenced on December 5th. This major dual-expo event, spanning three days, successfully attracted over 100 enterprises from both within China and across the globe. The photograph captures attendees intently examining a diverse array of coffee products, highlighting the region’s growing prominence in the global specialty coffee market and its deep-rooted tea culture. This event serves as a crucial platform for trade and cultural exchange, underscoring Yunnan’s strategic role in China’s agricultural export economy.

    While the specific details of the subsequent nine photographs were not provided in the source text, such collections typically offer a panoramic view of the country. They often feature advancements in technology and infrastructure, celebrations of cultural heritage, glimpses into daily urban and rural life, and milestones in sports or education. Each image stands as a testament to the multifaceted development and complex tapestry of modern Chinese society, capturing moments of innovation, tradition, and community engagement that define the nation’s character.

  • Maduro says Trump wants Venezuela’s oil. But is that the real US goal?

    Maduro says Trump wants Venezuela’s oil. But is that the real US goal?

    Tensions between the United States and Venezuela have reached a critical juncture as military and economic pressures intensify. Venezuelan President Nicolás Maduro asserts that Washington’s aggressive posture stems primarily from desire to control his nation’s massive petroleum reserves—the world’s largest at approximately 303 billion barrels.

    The confrontation escalated this week with the US military seizing an oil tanker allegedly transporting Venezuelan crude in violation of sanctions. This action follows a series of strikes against vessels accused of drug trafficking. President Donald Trump has publicly demanded Maduro’s resignation, alleging his administration facilitates narcotics and criminal elements reaching American shores.

    Despite Venezuela’s enormous reserves, current production tells a different story. Output has plummeted to approximately 860,000 barrels daily—just one-third of levels from a decade ago and representing under 1% of global consumption. This dramatic decline followed tightened governmental control over state oil company PDVSA, prompting an exodus of skilled personnel.

    US sanctions, initially imposed in 2015 during the Obama administration citing human rights concerns, have severely constrained Venezuela’s energy sector. These measures have limited foreign investment, restricted access to essential equipment, and crippled infrastructure. While some Western companies maintain limited operations, American firm Chevron stands as the primary US producer still active, accounting for roughly one-fifth of Venezuela’s current output after receiving special authorization.

    The geopolitical calculus involves multiple factors. Some US politicians, including Florida Republican Congresswoman María Elvira Salazar, advocate for intervention, suggesting American companies could rapidly revitalize Venezuela’s oil industry. However, White House officials emphasize combating drug trafficking and challenging Maduro’s legitimacy as primary objectives.

    Energy analysts remain skeptical about immediate benefits. Even if sanctions eased, restoring Venezuela’s production would require tens of billions of dollars and potentially a decade of investment. Additionally, declining long-term global oil demand and Venezuela’s OPEC membership present further complications for potential investors.

    The situation presents a paradox: while Venezuela’s heavy crude is desirable for US Gulf Coast refineries, and increased production could eventually lower prices, the practical challenges of revitalizing the industry remain formidable. As Capital Economics’ David Oxley notes, private companies will only commit resources if profitable—a uncertain proposition given the substantial investments and extended timeframe required.