Chinese researchers have marked a significant milestone in xenotransplantation, as a gene-edited pig kidney has successfully functioned in a macaque for over a year. This groundbreaking achievement was announced by a team from a hospital affiliated with Tongji Medical College at Huazhong University of Science and Technology in Wuhan. Led by Professor Chen Gang, the experiment underscores China’s emergence as a global leader in this cutting-edge field, paving the way for future clinical applications. Xenotransplantation, which addresses the critical shortage of human organs, often relies on pigs due to their physiological similarities to humans and fewer ethical concerns compared to human gene editing. However, overcoming immune rejection across species remains a major challenge. Chen’s team tackled this by sourcing specific pathogen-free ‘clean pigs’ to eliminate porcine cytomegalovirus, a common cause of rejection. Additionally, they developed a precise immunosuppression protocol to balance rejection prevention and infection risk. With an estimated 2 million people worldwide needing organ transplants annually, this breakthrough offers hope for end-stage patients. ‘Xenotransplantation is a beacon of hope for life extension,’ Chen emphasized. This achievement builds on earlier successes by U.S. researchers and positions China at the forefront of this vital medical research.
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Chinese scientists develop broad-spectrum nanobodies for tick fever treatment
A groundbreaking development in the fight against Severe Fever with Thrombocytopenia Syndrome (SFTS), commonly known as tick fever, has been achieved by a Chinese research team. Led by Professor Wu Xilin from Nanjing University Medical School, the team has created a combination of nanobodies that demonstrate broad and potent efficacy against the disease. This innovation is particularly significant as SFTS cases are on the rise globally, and no specific treatments have been available until now. The study, published as the cover story in the journal Science Translational Medicine, highlights the collaborative efforts of multiple domestic institutions. SFTS, transmitted through tick bites, causes severe symptoms such as high fever and a drastic reduction in platelet count, often occurring between April and September. The research team initially isolated first-generation nanobodies from alpacas, which showed promise in mouse trials. To combat the challenge posed by the virus’s multiple subtypes, the team developed a ‘cocktail therapy’ approach. This involved immunizing alpacas with antigens from different viral subtypes and identifying two potent nanobodies that target conserved viral sites, effectively blocking infection. When tested on infected ferrets, the nanobody cocktail led to complete survival, undetectable viral loads, improved platelet counts, and reduced tissue damage. The team has now initiated preclinical research, with Professor Wu expressing hope for a drug that can both treat and prevent SFTS.
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Indian fighter jet crashes during a demo flight at Dubai Air Show, killing the pilot
A tragic incident unfolded at the Dubai Air Show on Friday when an Indian HAL Tejas fighter jet crashed during a demonstration flight, resulting in the death of the pilot. The Indian Air Force confirmed the accident, which occurred around 2:10 p.m. local time at Al Maktoum International Airport. Witnesses reported that the aircraft appeared to lose control and plunged directly into the ground within the airfield premises. Emergency teams responded swiftly, and black smoke was seen rising from the crash site as sirens blared. The Indian Air Force expressed deep regret over the loss of life and extended condolences to the pilot’s family. A court of inquiry has been initiated to determine the cause of the crash. The Dubai Air Show, a biennial event, resumed flight demonstrations approximately an hour and a half later, with the Russian Knights performing overhead. The Tejas, India’s domestically produced fighter jet, is a key component of the nation’s efforts to modernize its air force amid regional tensions, particularly with China and Pakistan. Recent contracts with Hindustan Aeronautics Limited (HAL) for 97 Tejas jets highlight its strategic importance, though delays in deliveries due to engine shortages have posed challenges. The incident marks the second crash involving a Tejas jet in recent years, following a 2022 accident in Rajasthan where the pilot ejected safely.
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Trump’s growing impatience to end Ukraine war is a concern for Kyiv
Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky has adopted a measured approach to a US-drafted peace proposal, refraining from outright criticism despite its apparent alignment with many of Moscow’s demands. The White House has countered assertions that Ukraine was excluded from the drafting process, emphasizing that the plan emerged from recent US-Russia discussions. In his nightly address, Zelensky underscored Ukraine’s commitment to peace, diplomacy, and constructive dialogue, stating, “We are ready for honest, efficient, and constructive work.” However, concerns linger over specific provisions, such as relinquishing the Donbas region, downsizing Ukraine’s military, and barring international troops—concessions previously rejected by Kyiv. Ukrainian MP Yaroslav Yurchyshyn criticized the proposal as a “quick peace at the expense of the weaker side.” Recent developments have further strained Ukraine’s position, including Russian advances in the east, widespread power outages due to Moscow’s strikes on Ukraine’s energy grid, and internal political turmoil fueled by corruption allegations. US Secretary of State Marco Rubio acknowledged that achieving peace would necessitate tough compromises. The draft reportedly offers Ukraine “reliable security guarantees” and suggests using frozen Russian assets for reconstruction, while excluding NATO membership but leaving EU accession open. European nations, notably the UK and France, have been sidelined in the drafting process, with the proposal explicitly opposing foreign troop presence. European allies are pressing for their voices to be heard, potentially influencing Zelensky to seek amendments. However, time is of the essence, as US officials, operating under President Donald Trump’s directive, aim to finalize the deal within weeks, not months. Trump, eager to end the conflict swiftly, appears to have abandoned hopes of direct negotiations between Zelensky and Russian President Vladimir Putin, focusing instead on securing a bilateral agreement.
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Scholars slam Japan’s PM for Taiwan remarks
Japanese Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi has drawn sharp criticism from scholars and experts following her recent comments on Taiwan during a parliamentary session. On November 7, Takaichi suggested that a military conflict in the Taiwan Strait could pose a ‘survival-threatening situation’ for Japan, implying potential military intervention. This stance has been widely condemned as a violation of China’s core interests and a significant strain on Sino-Japanese relations. Ukeru Magosaki, a former senior official at Japan’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs, emphasized that Taiwan is a critical issue for China, and any provocation would elicit a strong response. He warned that Japanese society underestimates China’s resolve, which could lead to severe repercussions, including reduced Chinese tourism, trade disruptions, and increased pressure on Japanese businesses in China. In response to Takaichi’s remarks, China has suspended imports of Japanese aquatic products, citing Japan’s failure to provide promised technical materials. Foreign Ministry spokeswoman Mao Ning criticized Takaichi’s ‘erroneous’ statements, which have sparked public outrage in China. The Tokyo-based Japan-China Friendship Association has also lodged a formal protest, demanding Takaichi retract her comments and urging the Japanese government to take corrective actions. Noriyuki Kawamura, an emeritus professor at Nagoya University of Foreign Studies, described Takaichi’s remarks as a ‘declaration of war on China,’ marking a departure from Japan’s traditional pacifist stance. Despite recent efforts to strengthen bilateral ties, Takaichi’s actions have undermined trust and cooperation between the two nations.
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Senior CPC official attends meeting on Beijing’s planning, construction
Cai Qi, a prominent member of the Standing Committee of the Political Bureau of the Communist Party of China (CPC) Central Committee and director of the Capital Planning and Construction Committee (CPCC), attended and addressed the sixth plenary meeting of the 20th CPCC in Beijing on November 20, 2025. The meeting focused on the strategic planning and development of the Chinese capital, emphasizing its role in the broader context of Chinese modernization. Cai highlighted the importance of understanding Beijing’s positioning and fostering its development in the new era. Key discussions revolved around the orderly relocation of non-essential functions from Beijing to support the growth of the Xiong’an New Area in Hebei province, urban renewal initiatives, and the optimization of the Beijing-Tianjin-Hebei regional urban system. The meeting also underscored the necessity of integrating security considerations into the city’s planning and governance to build a resilient and secure capital. Yin Li, another member of the Political Bureau of the CPC Central Committee and director of the CPCC, chaired the session, ensuring a comprehensive dialogue on these critical issues.
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Long queues, cool weather, great food: Ras Al Khaimah’s new night market is a hit
Ras Al Khaimah’s newest weekend attraction, the RAK Night Market, has quickly become a local favorite, drawing crowds with its vibrant mix of food, crafts, and family-friendly entertainment. Launched on November 14, 2025, the market is set up on the plaza of the Ras Al Khaimah Exhibition Center and operates every weekend from 4:30 pm to 10:30 pm. During its opening weekend, over 10,000 visitors, including residents and tourists, flocked to explore the more than 80 stalls offering handmade crafts, diverse street food, and classic sweets. Families enjoyed hot meals together, while kids were thrilled by the treats and activities. The market also provided a platform for young entrepreneurs to showcase their creativity and businesses. Katrina Alvarez, a Filipino resident, praised the event for its reasonable prices and diverse food options, including flavors from her home country. Two Emirati cousins, Mariam Jassem and Mariam Rashid Al Shemeili, stood out with their brands Kunst and Pastel Vibe, respectively, inspiring visitors with their entrepreneurial spirit. Jamal Rashid Hamdoun, owner of Raghuh Honey, captivated crowds with his unique honey products and interactive hive displays. Mohamed Ali Musabbeh Al Nuaimi, Chairman of the RAK Chamber of Commerce & Industry, highlighted the market’s role in supporting small businesses and fostering community connections.
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Pilot dies in small plane crash in Republic of Ireland
A tragic aviation incident occurred near Tramore in County Waterford, Republic of Ireland, on Thursday at approximately 12:50 local time. The small aircraft, a privately-owned Vulcanair P68C, crashed during its approach to Waterford Airport, resulting in the death of the sole pilot on board. Irish police, known as gardaí, confirmed that the pilot was alone in the plane at the time of the accident. Emergency services, including Coast Guard Rescue 117, swiftly responded to the scene. The pilot’s body was later transported to University Hospital Waterford, as reported by Irish broadcaster RTÉ. The aircraft was en route from Sligo, Ireland, to Beziers, France, when it abruptly turned around off the south coast of Ireland and headed back towards Waterford Airport. The Air Accident Investigation Unit conducted an initial examination of the crash site on Thursday and announced that four inspectors would return for further investigation on Friday morning. This incident has raised concerns about aviation safety in the region, and further details are awaited as the investigation progresses.
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Deadly Israeli strikes test fragile Gaza truce
The fragile truce in Gaza has been severely tested following a series of deadly Israeli strikes on Wednesday, resulting in one of the bloodiest days since a US-brokered ceasefire was established last month. According to Gaza’s health authority, 32 Palestinians, including 12 children and eight women, were killed, with 88 others injured. Concurrently, in the occupied West Bank, Israeli forces detained 100 Palestinians. These developments occurred just two days after the United Nations Security Council adopted a resolution to establish an International Stabilization Force in Gaza. The Israel Defense Forces (IDF) confirmed the attacks, stating they targeted terrorists who posed an immediate threat. However, Hamas dismissed these claims as attempts to justify Israeli crimes. Meanwhile, US Ambassador to Israel Mike Huckabee labeled the surge in settler violence in the West Bank as ‘terrorism.’ UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres emphasized the need for all parties to respect the ceasefire and work towards a two-state solution. Analysts warn that the current situation resembles a pause in conflict rather than a functioning ceasefire, with ongoing violence and deteriorating humanitarian conditions in Gaza.
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Canada eyes talent amid US curbs on immigration
As the United States tightens immigration policies and reduces research funding, Canada is emerging as a potential beneficiary in the global competition for skilled talent. Experts suggest that the shifting landscape in the US is prompting many highly skilled workers to reconsider their options, with Canada increasingly seen as a viable alternative. Rupa Banerjee, a Canada Research Chair and professor at Toronto Metropolitan University, noted that the US administration’s policies are driving talent to explore opportunities elsewhere. ‘Many individuals who either reside in the US or aspired to move there are now looking at other destinations,’ she told China Daily. The Canadian federal government recently passed a budget that includes a C$1.7 billion commitment over the next decade to attract top international researchers, including scholars from US universities and H-1B visa holders. Banerjee emphasized that this move reflects Canada’s recognition of a unique opportunity to address its long-standing challenges in innovation and productivity. ‘Policymakers understand that this is a great chance for Canada to leverage the turbulence in the US,’ she said. While Canada has traditionally been a second choice for many immigrants, Banerjee believes this perception is changing. ‘Canada is becoming a better and better choice, and it’s up to policymakers to ensure it remains a top destination,’ she added. However, she cautioned that Canada’s research infrastructure and policy framework may not yet be equipped to attract talent at scale. Mikal Skuterud, an economics professor at the University of Waterloo, noted that Canada’s efforts are part of a broader global competition for human capital. ‘Human capital is scarce, and there’s a constant global war for talent,’ he said. Skuterud suggested that Canada could benefit if US policies restrict certain foreign applicants, but he emphasized that the federal funding is more of a political signal than a transformative policy. ‘If the US is closing the door on some people, maybe Canada can open its door,’ he said. Despite the potential advantages, both experts agree that Canada must focus on long-term strategies to fully capitalize on this opportunity.