Global Pulse

标签： Asia

亚洲

  • Alliance of Open Life Science expands global reach with new membership invitations

    Alliance of Open Life Science expands global reach with new membership invitations

    The Alliance of Open Life Science has embarked on a significant global expansion initiative by extending membership invitations to 32 prestigious universities and research institutions worldwide. This development was announced during the alliance’s 2025 annual conference, which commenced in Guangzhou on Monday.

    Among the distinguished institutions receiving invitations are the University of Oxford and Imperial College London, representing a major step in China’s commitment to advancing international collaboration in life sciences. The alliance, an international non-profit academic community formed voluntarily by universities and research institutions, has already received positive responses from several invitees.

    The current gathering includes representatives from the alliance’s existing 33 member institutions. Academic leadership presented key developments, with CAS academician Jin Li, President of Fudan University, delivering the alliance’s work report. CAS academician Shi Yigong, President of Westlake University, outlined the development strategy for the alliance’s scientific journal.

    Addressing the critical needs of what it termed the ‘big science era,’ the alliance emphasized that global cooperation is essential for tackling fundamental questions about life origins and health mysteries. The organization is dedicated to establishing a worldwide innovation network and cooperation mechanism to drive breakthroughs across life science research, technological advancement, talent development, and industrial innovation.

    The conference also marked the induction of the alliance’s second cohort of new members. Since its establishment in August with 15 founding members—including Peking University, Tsinghua University, Fudan University, and Hong Kong University of Science and Technology—the alliance has grown to incorporate 18 additional institutions, now encompassing China’s premier life science research organizations.

    Guided by the principle that science transcends national boundaries, the alliance commits to developing high-quality public goods and promoting open science development in life sciences and technology for the benefit of human society worldwide.

  • Winter harvest keeps markets supplied in Linze, Gansu

    Winter harvest keeps markets supplied in Linze, Gansu

    Amidst the harsh winter conditions of northwestern China, Linze county in Zhangye city, Gansu province, demonstrates remarkable agricultural resilience through its advanced facility agriculture industrial park. Contrary to seasonal expectations, the park thrives with activity as local farmers meticulously harvest, categorize, and package freshly picked vegetables destined for regional markets.

    The agricultural complex, operating at peak efficiency during December’s coldest weeks, cultivates over 20 distinct vegetable varieties within climate-controlled greenhouses. These technologically advanced growing environments maintain optimal conditions for year-round production, effectively bypassing traditional seasonal limitations that typically restrict winter farming in northern regions.

    This innovative approach to agriculture addresses critical supply chain challenges during winter months when fresh produce availability typically declines. The continuous harvest operation ensures consistent delivery of nutritious vegetables to markets across Gansu and neighboring provinces, providing consumers with access to diverse, quality produce regardless of external weather conditions.

    The successful implementation of facility agriculture in Linze county represents a significant advancement in China’s agricultural modernization efforts. By combining traditional farming expertise with contemporary greenhouse technologies, the region has established a sustainable model for winter food production that supports local economies while addressing food security concerns during seasonal transitions.

  • Wanfenglin’s karst peaks wear ethereal winter veil in Guizhou

    Wanfenglin’s karst peaks wear ethereal winter veil in Guizhou

    The majestic Wanfenglin scenic area in China’s Guizhou province has undergone a breathtaking seasonal transformation, with its iconic karst peaks now enveloped in an ethereal winter mist. Recent aerial photography captures the extraordinary spectacle of these rolling, dough-like geological formations emerging mysteriously through the fog-shrouded landscape around Xingyi.

    Spanning an impressive 2,000 square kilometers, this ‘forest of peaks’ lives up to its name with countless conical karst formations that create one of China’s most distinctive natural landscapes. During winter months, the interaction between cool air and moisture creates persistent fog that dramatically alters the region’s character, transforming the familiar terrain into something almost otherworldly.

    The visual transformation has drawn attention from photographers and nature enthusiasts who marvel at how the winter conditions emphasize the mystical quality of these ancient geological structures. The mist softens the rugged features of the peaks while creating layers of depth and mystery throughout the vast scenic area.

    This seasonal phenomenon occurs regularly in the region’s winter climate, offering a completely different perspective on the familiar landscape. While Wanfenglin attracts visitors throughout the year for its striking karst topography, the winter veil provides a unique photographic opportunity and visual experience that highlights the enduring beauty of China’s diverse natural heritage.

  • Dubai: Gold prices inch slightly higher as markets open

    Dubai: Gold prices inch slightly higher as markets open

    Dubai’s gold market opened with modest gains on Wednesday as the precious metal continued its upward trajectory following a weekend of significant price increases. The benchmark 24K gold variety climbed to Dh521.75 per gram, marking a noticeable increase from Tuesday’s closing price of Dh516.75. Other variants including 22K, 21K, 18K, and 14K followed suit, trading at Dh483, Dh463.25, Dh397, and Dh309.75 respectively.

    International spot gold prices demonstrated even stronger momentum, reaching $4,337.96 per ounce by 10 AM local time with a 0.84% gain. Silver similarly outperformed with a substantial 4.46% surge to $66.28 per ounce.

    Market analyst Walid Koudmani of Naga highlighted that gold remains well-positioned for continued support as expectations for additional Federal Reserve rate cuts maintain their strength. “This week’s upcoming economic data could play a pivotal role in shaping future monetary policy expectations,” Koudmani noted. “A combination of stable inflation and weakening labor conditions could raise expectations of lower rates, further bolstering bullion.”

    The analysis comes just days after the US Federal Reserve implemented a 25 basis point rate reduction, bringing the target range to 3.5-3.75%. The central bank’s unexpectedly dovish stance under Chair Jerome Powell has subsequently weakened the US dollar, creating favorable conditions for gold pricing.

    Beyond monetary policy, Koudmani identified multiple factors driving gold’s appeal. Persistent geopolitical tensions spanning Eastern Europe, the Middle East, and emerging frictions in Asia continue to fuel risk aversion and safe-haven demand. Additionally, concerns regarding the Fed’s leadership transition and consistent central bank diversification away from the dollar provide structural support.

    The analyst projected a constructive medium-term outlook for gold, emphasizing that while the path might not be linear, macroeconomic conditions suggest meaningful upward price potential. Consistent ETF inflows and sustained central bank purchasing activity further reinforce the metal’s positive trajectory amid expectations of a lower interest-rate environment and global growth slowdown.

  • Myanmar’s military government charge hundreds with breaking election law as voting date nears

    Myanmar’s military government charge hundreds with breaking election law as voting date nears

    BANGKOK (AP) — Myanmar’s military regime has intensified its pre-election crackdown by charging over 200 individuals with violating the country’s stringent voting legislation ahead of this month’s controversial general election. The charges represent the latest escalation in the junta’s systematic suppression of political dissent surrounding the polls.

    According to state-run Myanma Alinn newspaper, Home Affairs Minister Lt.-Gen. Tun Tun Naung disclosed during a Tuesday meeting that authorities had identified and taken action against 229 people—201 men and 28 women—across 140 separate cases involving alleged attempts to sabotage the electoral process. The report provided minimal details regarding the identities of those charged or their current detention status.

    The controversial election law, enacted in July under military rule, imposes severe penalties including imprisonment terms ranging from three to ten years for activities deemed disruptive to the electoral process. More serious offenses carry potential death sentences, creating an atmosphere of intense political repression.

    Among those publicly identified in state media are prominent activists Tayzar San, Nan Lin, and Htet Myat Aung, who organized a December 3 protest in Mandalay, Myanmar’s second-largest city. The demonstration called for public rejection of the elections, abolition of military conscription laws, and release of political prisoners.

    The General Strike Coordination Body, a leading non-violent opposition organization, reported Wednesday that security forces arrested Htet Myat Aung in Mandalay and allegedly subjected him to abuse during detention. The organization expressed grave concerns about his imminent safety, though The Associated Press could not independently verify his condition.

    Those charged span diverse segments of society, including filmmakers, actors, comedians, children, members of pro-democracy militias (People’s Defense Forces), and representatives from ethnic armed groups engaged in conflict with the military. Most face accusations of destroying campaign materials, threatening election personnel, or posting critical comments on social media platforms. Local media outlets, including Myanmar Now, report that some defendants have received prison sentences extending up to 49 years.

    The military government spokesperson, Maj. Gen. Zaw Min Tun, stated during a Sunday briefing that international approval of the election process remains irrelevant to the junta’s objectives. “Those who want to criticize can do so,” Zaw Min Tun declared. “We will continue to pursue our original objective of returning to a multi-party democratic system.”

    The election faces widespread criticism for excluding Aung San Suu Kyi’s National League for Democracy (NLD), which was forcibly disbanded in 2023 despite achieving landslide victories in both the 2015 and 2020 elections. The military justified its 2021 takeover by alleging electoral irregularities in the 2020 polls, though independent observers found no substantive evidence supporting these claims.

    Suu Kyi, now 80, remains imprisoned under a 27-year sentence following convictions in multiple politically motivated cases. Recent reports expressing concerns about her health were dismissed by military authorities on Tuesday, who maintain she remains in good condition.

  • Alleged Bondi shooter charged with 59 offenses by Australian police

    Alleged Bondi shooter charged with 59 offenses by Australian police

    Australian authorities have formally pressed 59 criminal charges against Naveed Akram, the 24-year-old individual allegedly responsible for the devastating mass shooting at Bondi Beach. The New South Wales police confirmed on Wednesday that Akram faces multiple severe charges, including 15 counts of murder and one count of committing a terrorist act.

    The tragic incident occurred during a Hanukkah celebration on Sunday, targeting the Jewish community’s festival gathering. Akram, who had been in a medically induced coma following the attack, regained consciousness on Tuesday and remains hospitalized under strict police supervision.

    Law enforcement officials continue their comprehensive investigation into the massacre that shocked the nation. The Bondi Beach area, typically known for its vibrant atmosphere and tourist attractions, has transformed into a solemn memorial site with countless floral tributes honoring the victims. Community members and officials have gathered at the beachfront pavilion to pay respects to those who lost their lives in what authorities are treating as a religiously-motivated terrorist attack.

    The extensive list of charges reflects the gravity of the offense and the thoroughness of the ongoing criminal investigation. Australian counterterrorism units are working closely with international partners to establish potential connections and motivations behind the attack. This case represents one of the most significant mass shooting incidents in Australia’s recent history, prompting nationwide discussions about public safety and religious tolerance.

  • Iran, Russia vow to speed up implementing int’l transport route

    Iran, Russia vow to speed up implementing int’l transport route

    TEHRAN – In a significant development for Eurasian connectivity, Iran and Russia have pledged to expedite the implementation of a major international transport corridor designed to link South Asia with Northern Europe. The commitment was solidified during high-level talks held in Tehran on Tuesday between Ali Larijani, Secretary of Iran’s Supreme National Security Council, and Vitaly Savelyev, Russia’s Deputy Prime Minister for Transport.

    The discussions centered on the International North-South Transport Corridor (INSTC), a multi-modal network of ship, rail, and road routes. Mr. Larijani emphasized Iran’s full preparedness to advance the project, declaring the nation’s intention to promptly eliminate existing executive and institutional hurdles. He confirmed that Iran would enact all necessary agreements to provide a robust legal and administrative foundation for the corridor’s construction and operation.

    Echoing this determination, Deputy Prime Minister Savelyev welcomed Iran’s decisive stance and affirmed Moscow’s readiness to transition the ambitious initiative into its operational phase. Both officials underscored that the INSTC represents a cornerstone of their joint strategic objective to fortify sustainable bilateral cooperation and establish independent regional supply chains, reducing reliance on traditional routes.

    The project gained substantial momentum in July 2023 when the two nations signed an executory contract for a critical 162-kilometer railway segment within Iran. This rail link, upon completion, will connect the northern Iranian cities of Rasht and Astara, forming a vital segment of the broader corridor and significantly enhancing freight capacity across the region.

  • Good news: Behind the scenes of some of the most uplifting stories of 2025

    Good news: Behind the scenes of some of the most uplifting stories of 2025

    In a year characterized by global turmoil and natural disasters, Associated Press journalists found themselves at the heart of extraordinary human moments that defined 2025’s most uplifting stories. From historic papal communications to Nobel Prize announcements and resilient celebrations, these professionals documented remarkable instances of perseverance and joy.

    The unprecedented election of America’s first pope, Leo XIV, created an immediate media frenzy. Video journalist Obed Lamy secured exclusive access to the pontiff’s brother, John Prevost, in suburban Chicago. During their interview, an unexpected call from the basement tablet revealed the newly appointed pope himself attempting to contact his brother. Lamy captured the intimate sibling conversation on speakerphone, where the world’s most powerful religious figure casually discussed family travel plans and accommodation uncertainties like any ordinary brother.

    Meanwhile, in Seattle, photographer Lindsey Wasson became an unexpected bearer of life-changing news. Arriving before dawn at scientist Mary E. Brunkow’s residence, Wasson informed her husband Ross about Mary’s Nobel Prize in Medicine achievement for her work on peripheral immune tolerance. Initially met with disbelief at the 3:45 AM interruption, the household quickly transformed into a celebration as the reality set in, with Wasson documenting the emotional transition from skepticism to overwhelming joy.

    In the Philippines, veteran photographer Aaron Favila braved catastrophic flooding from annual typhoons to document an inspiring wedding ceremony. Despite chest-deep waters, couple Jade Rick Verdillo and Jamaica proceeded with their nuptials at Barasoain Church north of Manila, symbolizing their resilience through life’s challenges. Favila hitched rides on rescue trucks through impassable floods to capture the complete ceremony, acting as both journalist and honorary wedding photographer.

    Southern California’s Palisades community demonstrated similar resilience when their youth theater group staged “Crazy for You” just weeks after wildfires destroyed their theater and many cast members’ homes. Reporter Jocelyn Gecker witnessed the powerful opening night where performers found solace in George and Ira Gershwin’s music, temporarily lifting the weight of their losses. The production garnered attention from the Gershwin family trust, who attended a performance and delivered a heartfelt letter applauding the group’s dedication and resilience.

    These interconnected stories, captured by AP journalists across different continents and circumstances, collectively illustrate humanity’s remarkable capacity to find light during darkness, celebrate amidst adversity, and maintain connections when they matter most.

  • Innovation sustains Beijing’s winter crayfish palate

    Innovation sustains Beijing’s winter crayfish palate

    A revolutionary advancement in aquaculture technology has transformed Beijing’s winter dining scene, enabling year-round availability of fresh crayfish—a delicacy previously confined to summer months. The culinary breakthrough originates from Qianjiang, Hubei province, where agricultural innovators have successfully overcome longstanding technical barriers in winter rice paddy co-cultivation systems.

    Despite recent snowfall blanketing Beijing’s streets, restaurants in popular dining districts like Sanlitun and Guijie Street now emanate the distinctive aroma of chili-oil and garlic-infused crayfish throughout the winter season. This unprecedented supply chain achievement marks a significant departure from traditional seasonal limitations that once restricted fresh crayfish availability during colder months.

    Agricultural authorities in Hubei province, responsible for nearly 40% of China’s total crayfish output, have implemented technological innovations that transitioned the industry from seasonal harvesting to continuous year-round production. The breakthrough specifically addresses winter farming challenges in integrated rice-crayfish agricultural systems, where low temperatures previously hindered large-scale production.

    According to Zhang Yun, director of the Qianjiang Crayfish Industry Promotion Center, the city’s winter output is projected to exceed 26,000 tons this year—representing a 30% year-on-year increase. Since November, Beijing has received a consistent daily supply of 11 tons of fresh winter crayfish, ensuring stable market availability.

    The economic implications extend beyond consumer benefits. Local farmers report substantial income improvements, with the new winter model generating approximately 30,000 yuan ($4,896) in additional net profit per hectare compared to traditional seasonal farming practices.

    Industry leaders including Wang Zhongwei, culinary research director at COFCO Group, celebrate this development as achieving ‘crayfish freedom’ for consumers. Restaurant associations note that the reliable supply of quality ingredients during winter months injects new vitality into Beijing’s culinary landscape, offering chefs and establishments previously unavailable menu options during the coldest season.

  • Chinese research named among Physics World’s top 10 breakthroughs of 2025

    Chinese research named among Physics World’s top 10 breakthroughs of 2025

    In a landmark achievement for materials science, Chinese researchers have earned global recognition for creating the world’s first two-dimensional metals, an accomplishment long considered nearly unattainable. This groundbreaking work, led by a team at the Institute of Physics under the Chinese Academy of Sciences, has been selected among Physics World’s prestigious “Top 10 Breakthroughs for 2025.”

    The research, published in the renowned journal Nature in March 2025, represents a quantum leap in materials science that could potentially propel the next stage of human technological advancement. Since the discovery of monolayer graphene in 2004, 2D materials have fundamentally transformed scientific understanding of material properties and driven unprecedented innovations in condensed-matter physics.

    According to Professor Zhang Guangyu, the project’s lead scientist, creating 2D metals presented extraordinary challenges due to the strong metallic bonds between atoms that occur in all directions. “The metallic bonding nature made conventional approaches to 2D material synthesis ineffective,” Zhang explained. “We had to fundamentally rethink material fabrication at the atomic level.”

    The research team pioneered an innovative atomic-scale manufacturing technique called the van der Waals squeezing method, which enabled the creation of diverse 2D metals including bismuth, tin, lead, indium, and gallium. These ultra-thin materials measure just one millionth the thickness of a standard A4 paper sheet and approximately one 200,000th the diameter of a human hair.

    The implications of this breakthrough extend across multiple technological domains. These novel 2D metals could revolutionize numerous industries through ultra-micro low-power transistors, high-frequency communication devices, transparent display technology, ultra-sensitive detection systems, and highly efficient catalytic processes.

    Physics World, the flagship publication of the Institute of Physics (the professional body for physics in the UK and Ireland), annually recognizes achievements that demonstrate significant scientific importance, advance the frontiers of knowledge, and attract broad attention from the global physics community. The selection criteria emphasize rigorous scientific validation, seamless integration of theory and experiment, and profound implications for future research and applications.