Climate change making megadroughts much worse, study says
Climate change is exacerbating severe, multi-year "megadroughts" worldwide, worsening conditions such as the Los Angeles wildfires. A study published in the journal Science highlights how these prolonged droughts, fueled by climate change, disrupt ecosystems and increase the frequency of wildfires. California, for instance, is experiencing increased fire incidents due to prolonged dry conditions, leading to devastating losses of homes and threatening lives.
While droughts vary by region, their impact is universally destructive, affecting everything from vegetation to agriculture. California's current situation, driven by just eight months of low rainfall, illustrates the immediate consequences of these climate shifts. The study underscores a global perspective, noting similar situations in places like Chile, which has faced a drought since 2010, causing widespread ecological and agricultural damage. Researchers Dirk Nikolaus Karger and Francesca Pellicciotti emphasize that these patterns of erratic precipitation and prolonged dry spells are likely to intensify, affecting diverse regions differently but with equally severe repercussions.
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Climate change is exacerbating severe, multi-year "megadroughts" worldwide, worsening conditions such as the Los Angeles wildfires. A study published in the journal Science highlights how these prolonged droughts, fueled by climate change, disrupt ecosystems and increase the frequency of wildfires. California, for instance, is experiencing increased fire incidents due to prolonged dry conditions, leading to devastating losses of homes and threatening lives.
While droughts vary by region, their impact is universally destructive, affecting everything from vegetation to agriculture. California's current situation, driven by just eight months of low rainfall, illustrates the immediate consequences of these climate shifts. The study underscores a global perspective, noting similar situations in places like Chile, which has faced a drought since 2010, causing widespread ecological and agricultural damage. Researchers Dirk Nikolaus Karger and Francesca Pellicciotti emphasize that these patterns of erratic precipitation and prolonged dry spells are likely to intensify, affecting diverse regions differently but with equally severe repercussions.
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If Trump has his way with Maga, it’s back to the law of the jungle
美国总统特朗普的“让美国再次伟大”计划可能会在根本上改变美国及其在全球的角色。这一计划不仅涉及国内政策，还包括对外扩张的野心，特朗普提出的“吞并加拿大”及“购买格林兰”等想法，显示出其对领土的强烈渴望。
特朗普的这些主张与历史上的门罗主义有着明显的联系，反映出他对美国扩张主义的信仰。然而，这种做法无视了国际关系的基本原则，尤其是联合国宪章所规定的规范，可能会引发国际社会的广泛反对。尽管一些分析人士认为特朗普可能会采取孤立主义政策，但实际上，他的军事支出和全球军事存在表明，美国在特朗普的领导下并不会退缩。
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美国总统特朗普的“让美国再次伟大”计划可能会在根本上改变美国及其在全球的角色。这一计划不仅涉及国内政策，还包括对外扩张的野心，特朗普提出的“吞并加拿大”及“购买格林兰”等想法，显示出其对领土的强烈渴望。
特朗普的这些主张与历史上的门罗主义有着明显的联系，反映出他对美国扩张主义的信仰。然而，这种做法无视了国际关系的基本原则，尤其是联合国宪章所规定的规范，可能会引发国际社会的广泛反对。尽管一些分析人士认为特朗普可能会采取孤立主义政策，但实际上，他的军事支出和全球军事存在表明，美国在特朗普的领导下并不会退缩。
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‘Very important step’: Chinese scientists turn E coli into a photosynthetic life form
By Victoria Bela
It is a common gut bacteria that never normally sees the light of day, but now Chinese scientists have engineered E coli so that it can harness sunlight like a plant.
Incorporating a custom-designed artificial photosynthetic system into the bacteria, researchers have been able to make the E coli capable of using sunlight and carbon dioxide to synthesise chemicals for industrial use, such as acetone.
The scientific breakthrough could have major impacts for the industrial and agricultural sectors, helping to reduce its carbon footprint, according to the research team, whose findings were published in peer-reviewed journal Nature Communications on January 2.
“We have taken a very important step in using artificial photosynthetic systems to allow non-photosynthetic microorganisms to photosynthesise,” corresponding author Liu Gaoqiang, a professor from Central South University of Forestry and Technology, told news outlet China Science Daily.
In the paper, the team described the new-to-nature photosynthesis system as providing “a road map for transforming non-photosynthetic microbes into novel photosynthetic life forms”.
“Although a promising proof of concept remains incomparable to natural photosynthetic bacteria, this system provides new insights into the development of fully photoautotrophic E coli cell factories capable of producing value-added bioproducts,” they wrote.
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By Victoria Bela
It is a common gut bacteria that never normally sees the light of day, but now Chinese scientists have engineered E coli so that it can harness sunlight like a plant.
Incorporating a custom-designed artificial photosynthetic system into the bacteria, researchers have been able to make the E coli capable of using sunlight and carbon dioxide to synthesise chemicals for industrial use, such as acetone.
The scientific breakthrough could have major impacts for the industrial and agricultural sectors, helping to reduce its carbon footprint, according to the research team, whose findings were published in peer-reviewed journal Nature Communications on January 2.
“We have taken a very important step in using artificial photosynthetic systems to allow non-photosynthetic microorganisms to photosynthesise,” corresponding author Liu Gaoqiang, a professor from Central South University of Forestry and Technology, told news outlet China Science Daily.
In the paper, the team described the new-to-nature photosynthesis system as providing “a road map for transforming non-photosynthetic microbes into novel photosynthetic life forms”.
“Although a promising proof of concept remains incomparable to natural photosynthetic bacteria, this system provides new insights into the development of fully photoautotrophic E coli cell factories capable of producing value-added bioproducts,” they wrote.
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No more ‘dragon babies’: why China’s birth figures are set to resume their downward spiral
China's birth numbers are expected to decline again this year, following a brief increase in 2024. This uptick was largely driven by a rise in marriages in 2023 and the cultural significance of the Year of the Dragon, which encouraged some couples to plan for a "dragon baby." Despite the slight increase to 9.54 million births in 2024, up from 9.02 million the previous year, demographers caution that this is just a temporary fluctuation in an otherwise ongoing trend of population decline.
The anticipation that 2024 might mark a turning point in China's demographic challenges was fueled by the government's pro-birth policies and the celebratory media coverage. However, experts remain skeptical about reversing the long-term decline. The number of marriage registrations, a key indicator of potential birth rates, is expected to hit its lowest since 1980, with only 4.75 million couples married in the first nine months of 2024—a stark 16.6% decrease from the same period in 2023. This data suggests that the factors contributing to the rise in births are not sustainable, and the population decline is likely to continue.
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China's birth numbers are expected to decline again this year, following a brief increase in 2024. This uptick was largely driven by a rise in marriages in 2023 and the cultural significance of the Year of the Dragon, which encouraged some couples to plan for a "dragon baby." Despite the slight increase to 9.54 million births in 2024, up from 9.02 million the previous year, demographers caution that this is just a temporary fluctuation in an otherwise ongoing trend of population decline.
The anticipation that 2024 might mark a turning point in China's demographic challenges was fueled by the government's pro-birth policies and the celebratory media coverage. However, experts remain skeptical about reversing the long-term decline. The number of marriage registrations, a key indicator of potential birth rates, is expected to hit its lowest since 1980, with only 4.75 million couples married in the first nine months of 2024—a stark 16.6% decrease from the same period in 2023. This data suggests that the factors contributing to the rise in births are not sustainable, and the population decline is likely to continue.
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Jimmy Lai denies approving proposed sanctions against Hong Kong, Beijing
前媒体老板赖清德否认在与美国游说者的讨论中批准对北京和香港的制裁提案。他强调，自己对这些建议的赞扬仅是出于鼓励，并非支持制裁。赖清德在法庭上表示，他并没有为了“满足美国的要求”而牺牲香港，尤其是在支持撤销香港享有的特权贸易地位方面。
在赖清德的国家安全审判中，检方继续对他进行交叉审问，他面临与外国势力勾结的两项阴谋指控以及一项印刷和分发煽动性出版物的阴谋指控。作为已停刊的《苹果日报》的创始人，赖清德被指控煽动西方制裁，并在2019年反政府抗议活动后煽动公众对当局的仇恨。
在西九龙法院进行的第33天口头证词中，赖清德对检方关于他反华立场的指控表现出不耐烦。他对副检察长周天行表示：“真相似乎对你没有影响，你真是太自由了，太有创意了，作为检察官你真了不起。”
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前媒体老板赖清德否认在与美国游说者的讨论中批准对北京和香港的制裁提案。他强调，自己对这些建议的赞扬仅是出于鼓励，并非支持制裁。赖清德在法庭上表示，他并没有为了“满足美国的要求”而牺牲香港，尤其是在支持撤销香港享有的特权贸易地位方面。
在赖清德的国家安全审判中，检方继续对他进行交叉审问，他面临与外国势力勾结的两项阴谋指控以及一项印刷和分发煽动性出版物的阴谋指控。作为已停刊的《苹果日报》的创始人，赖清德被指控煽动西方制裁，并在2019年反政府抗议活动后煽动公众对当局的仇恨。
在西九龙法院进行的第33天口头证词中，赖清德对检方关于他反华立场的指控表现出不耐烦。他对副检察长周天行表示：“真相似乎对你没有影响，你真是太自由了，太有创意了，作为检察官你真了不起。”
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Israelis await names of next 4 hostages to be released by Hamas
Relatives of hostages held by militants in Gaza urged Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu to secure the release of all captives, while appealing to US President Donald Trump for continued support in their efforts. As a fragile six-week ceasefire between Israel and Hamas reached its sixth day, the anticipation grew among Israelis for the announcement of the next group of hostages to be released. Currently, more than 90 individuals remain captive in Gaza, and families anxiously await news of their loved ones.
In the Gaza Strip, civilians in the central and southern areas are eager to return to their homes in the devastated northern region, but they face a painful wait due to ongoing tensions. Israel estimates that up to half of the hostages may have died, although Hamas has not provided clear information regarding the status of those held or deceased. The uncertainty adds to the distress of families, such as Ayelet Samerano, who publicly thanked President Trump for his efforts while highlighting the urgent need for the safe return of all 94 hostages still in captivity.
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Relatives of hostages held by militants in Gaza urged Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu to secure the release of all captives, while appealing to US President Donald Trump for continued support in their efforts. As a fragile six-week ceasefire between Israel and Hamas reached its sixth day, the anticipation grew among Israelis for the announcement of the next group of hostages to be released. Currently, more than 90 individuals remain captive in Gaza, and families anxiously await news of their loved ones.
In the Gaza Strip, civilians in the central and southern areas are eager to return to their homes in the devastated northern region, but they face a painful wait due to ongoing tensions. Israel estimates that up to half of the hostages may have died, although Hamas has not provided clear information regarding the status of those held or deceased. The uncertainty adds to the distress of families, such as Ayelet Samerano, who publicly thanked President Trump for his efforts while highlighting the urgent need for the safe return of all 94 hostages still in captivity.
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Ticket sales for Cristiano Ronaldo’s Hong Kong museum start on February 5
香港足球迷即将在2024年参观CR7 Life Museum。这个博物馆将设在尖沙咀的K11 Musea购物中心，并计划于7月开幕。为纪念葡萄牙超级球星克里斯蒂亚诺·罗纳尔多的成就，展馆将提供12,000平方英尺的沉浸式体验。门票将于2月5日罗纳尔多生日当天开始预售，届时将有早鸟票和VIP票供选择。
普通门票将于2月24日通过线上旅游平台Klook和Ctrip，以及K11官网开售。成人票价为180港元，儿童和老年人票价为150港元，早鸟购票可享受10%的优惠。VIP门票的详细信息尚未公布，但预计包括限量版纪念品、导览服务及博物馆特定区域的专享通道。此举不仅吸引了足球爱好者，也为香港旅游市场注入新活力。
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香港足球迷即将在2024年参观CR7 Life Museum。这个博物馆将设在尖沙咀的K11 Musea购物中心，并计划于7月开幕。为纪念葡萄牙超级球星克里斯蒂亚诺·罗纳尔多的成就，展馆将提供12,000平方英尺的沉浸式体验。门票将于2月5日罗纳尔多生日当天开始预售，届时将有早鸟票和VIP票供选择。
普通门票将于2月24日通过线上旅游平台Klook和Ctrip，以及K11官网开售。成人票价为180港元，儿童和老年人票价为150港元，早鸟购票可享受10%的优惠。VIP门票的详细信息尚未公布，但预计包括限量版纪念品、导览服务及博物馆特定区域的专享通道。此举不仅吸引了足球爱好者，也为香港旅游市场注入新活力。
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China’s ByteDance in race with US rivals to drive artificial general intelligence
中国社交媒体巨头字节跳动于周四推出了其Seed Edge计划，这是一个长期的人工智能研究项目，旨在增强其在快速发展的科技领域的竞争力。该计划将专注于探索人工通用智能（AGI），即具有人类智能和自我学习能力的软件。
字节跳动表示，Seed Edge将鼓励对长期、具有不确定性和大胆的AI研究主题进行探索，并提供一个自由的研究环境，以应对颠覆性的AI研究课题。这一项目反映了字节跳动的激进投资策略，尤其是在美国科技公司如OpenAI加速其AGI发展的背景下。
作为一家估值约为3000亿美元的初创公司，字节跳动还计划在山西省大同市投资45亿元人民币（约合6.15亿美元）建立新的计算中心，以支持其AI运营。该AGI项目的启动显然得到了创始人张一鸣的直接支持，尽管他自从退出所有公司职务后保持了低调。
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中国社交媒体巨头字节跳动于周四推出了其Seed Edge计划，这是一个长期的人工智能研究项目，旨在增强其在快速发展的科技领域的竞争力。该计划将专注于探索人工通用智能（AGI），即具有人类智能和自我学习能力的软件。
字节跳动表示，Seed Edge将鼓励对长期、具有不确定性和大胆的AI研究主题进行探索，并提供一个自由的研究环境，以应对颠覆性的AI研究课题。这一项目反映了字节跳动的激进投资策略，尤其是在美国科技公司如OpenAI加速其AGI发展的背景下。
作为一家估值约为3000亿美元的初创公司，字节跳动还计划在山西省大同市投资45亿元人民币（约合6.15亿美元）建立新的计算中心，以支持其AI运营。该AGI项目的启动显然得到了创始人张一鸣的直接支持，尽管他自从退出所有公司职务后保持了低调。
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Will Bali bombing suspect Hambali be set free after 18 years in prison?
Indonesia is considering the repatriation of Encep Nurjaman, also known as Hambali, from Guantanamo Bay, stirring both hope and concern within the country. The potential release of Hambali, detained for 18 years, is anticipated by his family but raises fears among experts about the possible strengthening of jihadist networks in Indonesia. The Indonesian government's shift in stance comes after Yusril Ihza Mahendra, the coordinating minister for law and human rights, emphasized Hambali's status as an Indonesian citizen, despite past allegations.
This development marks a significant change from previous government positions, where Hambali was not acknowledged as a citizen due to his alleged use of a foreign passport during his arrest. The situation is complicated by the expiration of Indonesia's statute of limitations on Hambali's case, which means he can no longer be prosecuted for his suspected involvement in the 2002 Bali bombing. The government approaches this issue with caution, aware of the sensitive nature and potential ramifications both domestically and internationally, as they navigate the complexities of repatriation and justice.
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Indonesia is considering the repatriation of Encep Nurjaman, also known as Hambali, from Guantanamo Bay, stirring both hope and concern within the country. The potential release of Hambali, detained for 18 years, is anticipated by his family but raises fears among experts about the possible strengthening of jihadist networks in Indonesia. The Indonesian government's shift in stance comes after Yusril Ihza Mahendra, the coordinating minister for law and human rights, emphasized Hambali's status as an Indonesian citizen, despite past allegations.
This development marks a significant change from previous government positions, where Hambali was not acknowledged as a citizen due to his alleged use of a foreign passport during his arrest. The situation is complicated by the expiration of Indonesia's statute of limitations on Hambali's case, which means he can no longer be prosecuted for his suspected involvement in the 2002 Bali bombing. The government approaches this issue with caution, aware of the sensitive nature and potential ramifications both domestically and internationally, as they navigate the complexities of repatriation and justice.
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Former Chinese arms firm executive facing corruption probe
前中国最大军火制造商的高管薛建国因涉嫌腐败而被调查。他曾担任哈尔滨第一机械集团的董事长，并在2010年离职后致力于推广民用北斗卫星导航系统。根据中国最高反腐机构中央纪律检查委员会的公告，薛建国因“严重违反纪律和法律”被立案调查，通常这指向腐败行为。
哈尔滨第一机械集团是中国北方工业集团公司（Norinco）的子公司，Norinco则是国家领先的国防承包商之一。薛建国在离职后，继续与Norinco合作，推动北斗系统的民用应用，这一系统被视为中国的GPS。到2023年底，北斗系统在中国已经被约14亿设备使用。此外，Norinco于2015年获得了监督北斗商业、工业和民用应用的授权，并促进相关产业的发展。
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前中国最大军火制造商的高管薛建国因涉嫌腐败而被调查。他曾担任哈尔滨第一机械集团的董事长，并在2010年离职后致力于推广民用北斗卫星导航系统。根据中国最高反腐机构中央纪律检查委员会的公告，薛建国因“严重违反纪律和法律”被立案调查，通常这指向腐败行为。
哈尔滨第一机械集团是中国北方工业集团公司（Norinco）的子公司，Norinco则是国家领先的国防承包商之一。薛建国在离职后，继续与Norinco合作，推动北斗系统的民用应用，这一系统被视为中国的GPS。到2023年底，北斗系统在中国已经被约14亿设备使用。此外，Norinco于2015年获得了监督北斗商业、工业和民用应用的授权，并促进相关产业的发展。
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China urges prudence over plenty in rural projects as local debt clouds linger
中国政府在推进农村振兴战略的同时，要求地方政府优先考虑财政责任，避免在缩小城乡生活质量差距的项目上过度支出。这一政策旨在确保投资与地方实际能力相符，以防止地方债务的积累，反映出对财政健康的重视。
这一警告是在中国最高立法机构于11月批准了一项前所未有的12万亿元人民币（约合1.6万亿美元）救助计划后发布的，该计划旨在未来五年内逐步解决地方债务问题。由于房地产市场持续低迷，地方政府失去了以往依赖的土地出让收入，因此在支出上变得更加谨慎。
中央政府的这一预算要求与其禁止高可见度的“形象工程”相一致，强调要满足农村地区的实际需求。北京人民大学农业经济与农村发展学院的郑丰田教授指出，许多公共福利项目在农村振兴过程中得到了实施，主要依靠地方政府的资金支持。
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中国政府在推进农村振兴战略的同时，要求地方政府优先考虑财政责任，避免在缩小城乡生活质量差距的项目上过度支出。这一政策旨在确保投资与地方实际能力相符，以防止地方债务的积累，反映出对财政健康的重视。
这一警告是在中国最高立法机构于11月批准了一项前所未有的12万亿元人民币（约合1.6万亿美元）救助计划后发布的，该计划旨在未来五年内逐步解决地方债务问题。由于房地产市场持续低迷，地方政府失去了以往依赖的土地出让收入，因此在支出上变得更加谨慎。
中央政府的这一预算要求与其禁止高可见度的“形象工程”相一致，强调要满足农村地区的实际需求。北京人民大学农业经济与农村发展学院的郑丰田教授指出，许多公共福利项目在农村振兴过程中得到了实施，主要依靠地方政府的资金支持。
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Growing risk of nuclear powers armed clash, Russia security official says
俄罗斯安全官员谢尔盖·绍伊古警告称，核大国之间发生武装冲突的风险正在上升。绍伊古在接受塔斯社采访时指出，世界范围内冲突加剧和地缘政治竞争加剧的背景下，主要国家之间发生暴力冲突的风险正在增加，尤其是涉及核大国。
他提到，北约在其东部边界，尤其是靠近俄罗斯和白俄罗斯的地区，正在增加军事活动，演练攻防场景。尽管北约指责俄罗斯加剧紧张局势，包括在2023年宣布向其盟友白俄罗斯部署战术核武器，绍伊古强调，俄罗斯与白俄罗斯正在采取预防措施，以应对来自西方的“内部破坏”企图。他重申，白俄罗斯现在受到俄罗斯核武库的保护，这是普京去年对核武器使用政策所做的调整的结果。
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俄罗斯安全官员谢尔盖·绍伊古警告称，核大国之间发生武装冲突的风险正在上升。绍伊古在接受塔斯社采访时指出，世界范围内冲突加剧和地缘政治竞争加剧的背景下，主要国家之间发生暴力冲突的风险正在增加，尤其是涉及核大国。
他提到，北约在其东部边界，尤其是靠近俄罗斯和白俄罗斯的地区，正在增加军事活动，演练攻防场景。尽管北约指责俄罗斯加剧紧张局势，包括在2023年宣布向其盟友白俄罗斯部署战术核武器，绍伊古强调，俄罗斯与白俄罗斯正在采取预防措施，以应对来自西方的“内部破坏”企图。他重申，白俄罗斯现在受到俄罗斯核武库的保护，这是普京去年对核武器使用政策所做的调整的结果。
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Hong Kong land sale to fetch around US$76 million amid developer caution
六家香港开发商正在竞标政府上季度唯一提供的住宅土地。尽管土地吸引了包括长江实业、恒基兆业、信和置业等大牌开发商的关注，但由于经济不确定性和高利率，预计出价将相对谨慎。
此次招标的土地位于沙田梅田路，占地3580平方米，预计可建360套住宅，步行至太和地铁站约需15分钟，且附近有小巴线路。根据CHFT咨询公司的高级董事梁志辉的说法，该地块售价预期在5.9亿至6.2亿港元之间，相当于每平方尺3050至3200港元。他还补充称，预计每套住宅的价格将达到约16500港元。尽管项目规模较小，投资风险相对较低，但由于香港房地产市场情绪低迷，出价仍可能谨慎，主要吸引中大型开发商参与。
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六家香港开发商正在竞标政府上季度唯一提供的住宅土地。尽管土地吸引了包括长江实业、恒基兆业、信和置业等大牌开发商的关注，但由于经济不确定性和高利率，预计出价将相对谨慎。
此次招标的土地位于沙田梅田路，占地3580平方米，预计可建360套住宅，步行至太和地铁站约需15分钟，且附近有小巴线路。根据CHFT咨询公司的高级董事梁志辉的说法，该地块售价预期在5.9亿至6.2亿港元之间，相当于每平方尺3050至3200港元。他还补充称，预计每套住宅的价格将达到约16500港元。尽管项目规模较小，投资风险相对较低，但由于香港房地产市场情绪低迷，出价仍可能谨慎，主要吸引中大型开发商参与。
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Bollywood star’s stabbing by suspected illegal Bangladeshi migrant sparks immigration blame game
The stabbing of Bollywood star Saif Ali Khan by a suspected Bangladeshi illegal immigrant has intensified political disputes over border security in India. Khan was attacked while trying to prevent a burglary at his Mumbai home, suffering severe injuries before being discharged from the hospital. The incident has not only raised concerns about personal safety but also highlighted issues surrounding illegal immigration, drawing parallels with similar debates in countries like the United States.
The suspect, identified as Mohammad Shariful Islam Shahzad, had been residing in India under the alias Vijay Das for several months, working with a housekeeping agency. This case underscores the broader challenge India faces with illegal immigration, which has become a contentious political topic. Indian Vice-President Jagdeep Dhankhar has voiced the urgent need to address this issue, emphasizing its vast and unmanageable scale. The incident has potential diplomatic implications, potentially straining relations between India and Bangladesh while prompting calls for stricter border control measures.
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The stabbing of Bollywood star Saif Ali Khan by a suspected Bangladeshi illegal immigrant has intensified political disputes over border security in India. Khan was attacked while trying to prevent a burglary at his Mumbai home, suffering severe injuries before being discharged from the hospital. The incident has not only raised concerns about personal safety but also highlighted issues surrounding illegal immigration, drawing parallels with similar debates in countries like the United States.
The suspect, identified as Mohammad Shariful Islam Shahzad, had been residing in India under the alias Vijay Das for several months, working with a housekeeping agency. This case underscores the broader challenge India faces with illegal immigration, which has become a contentious political topic. Indian Vice-President Jagdeep Dhankhar has voiced the urgent need to address this issue, emphasizing its vast and unmanageable scale. The incident has potential diplomatic implications, potentially straining relations between India and Bangladesh while prompting calls for stricter border control measures.
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Japan man buys 200 decayed houses generates US$900,000 in annual rent, captures attention
一名日本男子通过出租200栋破旧房屋赚取了1.4亿日元（约90万美元），引发了广泛的在线关注。这位来自本州大阪的38岁男子川村隼人（Hayato Kawamura）以其独特的投资策略而受到瞩目。
川村自幼对房屋产生了浓厚的兴趣，他曾在山顶观景台上欣赏城市中各式各样的房屋。学生时代，他对房地产的热情愈发高涨，甚至将房产参观作为与女友约会的常规活动。尽管当时无法购买房屋，他仍利用所有空闲时间学习房地产知识，并在毕业后进入了一家房屋租赁公司工作。
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一名日本男子通过出租200栋破旧房屋赚取了1.4亿日元（约90万美元），引发了广泛的在线关注。这位来自本州大阪的38岁男子川村隼人（Hayato Kawamura）以其独特的投资策略而受到瞩目。
川村自幼对房屋产生了浓厚的兴趣，他曾在山顶观景台上欣赏城市中各式各样的房屋。学生时代，他对房地产的热情愈发高涨，甚至将房产参观作为与女友约会的常规活动。尽管当时无法购买房屋，他仍利用所有空闲时间学习房地产知识，并在毕业后进入了一家房屋租赁公司工作。
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UK, Ireland Storm Éowyn leaves thousands without power
强风袭击爱尔兰和英国，断电和交通中断。**超过560,000户家庭和商业设施失去电力。**冬季风暴埃奥温(Eowyn)带来了爱尔兰西部加拉韦(Galway)的记录狂风率183km/h(114英里/小时)，据爱尔兰气象局(Met Eireann)表示。.state-owned能源公司ESB表示，截至当地时间6点，560,000户家庭、农场和商业设施失去了电力。
风暴接近时，爱尔兰、北爱尔兰和苏格兰部分地区发布了红色天气警告，关闭了学校和大学，并要求人们避开。许多商店关闭，公共交通网络几乎瘫痪。数百架航班在爱尔兰和英国各个机场被取消，许多航班在都柏林、爱丁堡和贝尔法斯特机场被迫停飞，数十架跨大西洋航班也被取消。爱尔兰航空公司、英国航空公司和Ryanair控股公司也均发出更广泛的动态中断警告。
全线在爱尔兰和北爱尔兰停运的火车，以及英国和苏格兰之间的大多数铁路线在周五停运。
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强风袭击爱尔兰和英国，断电和交通中断。**超过560,000户家庭和商业设施失去电力。**冬季风暴埃奥温(Eowyn)带来了爱尔兰西部加拉韦(Galway)的记录狂风率183km/h(114英里/小时)，据爱尔兰气象局(Met Eireann)表示。.state-owned能源公司ESB表示，截至当地时间6点，560,000户家庭、农场和商业设施失去了电力。
风暴接近时，爱尔兰、北爱尔兰和苏格兰部分地区发布了红色天气警告，关闭了学校和大学，并要求人们避开。许多商店关闭，公共交通网络几乎瘫痪。数百架航班在爱尔兰和英国各个机场被取消，许多航班在都柏林、爱丁堡和贝尔法斯特机场被迫停飞，数十架跨大西洋航班也被取消。爱尔兰航空公司、英国航空公司和Ryanair控股公司也均发出更广泛的动态中断警告。
全线在爱尔兰和北爱尔兰停运的火车，以及英国和苏格兰之间的大多数铁路线在周五停运。
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ByteDance board member ‘optimistic’ TikTok will find non-sale options in US, report says
TikTok is exploring alternatives to selling its US business amid ongoing national security concerns raised by the government. ByteDance board member William Ford expressed optimism that solutions can be found that address these concerns without necessitating a sale. His comments come after a period of relative calm since the Trump administration's initial actions against the app.
Ford highlighted that discussions about non-sale options are crucial in ongoing negotiations with the Trump administration, although interactions with the Biden administration have been limited. He suggested that these alternatives could involve some form of local control to comply with US regulations. Additionally, Ford emphasized the potential for improved dialogue between US President Trump and Chinese President Xi Jinping to foster a more constructive environment, which could ultimately lead to a favorable resolution for TikTok’s future in the US market.
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TikTok is exploring alternatives to selling its US business amid ongoing national security concerns raised by the government. ByteDance board member William Ford expressed optimism that solutions can be found that address these concerns without necessitating a sale. His comments come after a period of relative calm since the Trump administration's initial actions against the app.
Ford highlighted that discussions about non-sale options are crucial in ongoing negotiations with the Trump administration, although interactions with the Biden administration have been limited. He suggested that these alternatives could involve some form of local control to comply with US regulations. Additionally, Ford emphasized the potential for improved dialogue between US President Trump and Chinese President Xi Jinping to foster a more constructive environment, which could ultimately lead to a favorable resolution for TikTok’s future in the US market.
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Fishing for plastics: start-up turns Thai ocean’s plastics into new products
By Xinyi Wu
Swiss start-up Tide gives plastic waste in the ocean a new life by recycling and transforming it into materials for new products, like carpets, watches and toys.
They buy the plastics from fishing villages in Thailand, cleaning up the sea while creating jobs at the same time.
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By Xinyi Wu
Swiss start-up Tide gives plastic waste in the ocean a new life by recycling and transforming it into materials for new products, like carpets, watches and toys.
They buy the plastics from fishing villages in Thailand, cleaning up the sea while creating jobs at the same time.
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‘Unacceptable’: Indonesia rejects report of US relocation plan for Palestinians
A comment from an official in US President Donald Trump's transition team has sparked outrage in Indonesia by suggesting relocating some of the 2 million Palestinians in Gaza to Indonesia, a plan the Indonesian government has strongly denied and condemned. The uproar began after NBC News reported that an unnamed official mentioned Indonesia as a potential destination in discussions about rebuilding Gaza following a ceasefire between Israel and Hamas. This suggestion has been met with firm rejection from Indonesian officials.
The Indonesian Ministry of Foreign Affairs swiftly responded by issuing a statement unequivocally denying any such proposal. They emphasized that Indonesia had never been approached with such a plan and firmly opposed the idea of displacing Gaza's residents. The ministry criticized the proposal as an attempt to perpetuate the illegal Israeli occupation and align with broader strategies to expel Palestinians from their land. This incident underscores the sensitivity surrounding the Palestinian issue and highlights Indonesia's commitment to supporting Palestinian sovereignty.
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A comment from an official in US President Donald Trump's transition team has sparked outrage in Indonesia by suggesting relocating some of the 2 million Palestinians in Gaza to Indonesia, a plan the Indonesian government has strongly denied and condemned. The uproar began after NBC News reported that an unnamed official mentioned Indonesia as a potential destination in discussions about rebuilding Gaza following a ceasefire between Israel and Hamas. This suggestion has been met with firm rejection from Indonesian officials.
The Indonesian Ministry of Foreign Affairs swiftly responded by issuing a statement unequivocally denying any such proposal. They emphasized that Indonesia had never been approached with such a plan and firmly opposed the idea of displacing Gaza's residents. The ministry criticized the proposal as an attempt to perpetuate the illegal Israeli occupation and align with broader strategies to expel Palestinians from their land. This incident underscores the sensitivity surrounding the Palestinian issue and highlights Indonesia's commitment to supporting Palestinian sovereignty.
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Notes of concern: ‘chorus waves’ found by China-led study sound alarms for space travel
Peculiar electromagnetic bursts known as "chorus waves" have been detected by a China-led team of scientists at a distance of 165,000 km from Earth, raising concerns about risks to spacecraft and astronauts. This marks the first time such waves have been observed so far from our planet, three times the distance of previous detections. Using data from NASA's Magnetospheric Multiscale Mission, the research revealed that these waves were generated in Earth's stretched magnetic field lines, where they were repeatedly struck by charged particles from space, producing sounds akin to birds chirping.
These findings challenge existing theories about the generation and propagation of chorus waves, as noted by Cao Jinbin, a co-author from Beihang University. Richard Horne of the British Antarctic Survey highlighted the importance of this discovery for understanding space weather and its potential threats. Chorus waves can accelerate electrons to high energies, creating "killer electrons" that have historically damaged satellites, costing significant sums. This research not only expands our understanding of deep space radiation but also emphasizes the need for improved prediction and protection measures for space technology.
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Peculiar electromagnetic bursts known as "chorus waves" have been detected by a China-led team of scientists at a distance of 165,000 km from Earth, raising concerns about risks to spacecraft and astronauts. This marks the first time such waves have been observed so far from our planet, three times the distance of previous detections. Using data from NASA's Magnetospheric Multiscale Mission, the research revealed that these waves were generated in Earth's stretched magnetic field lines, where they were repeatedly struck by charged particles from space, producing sounds akin to birds chirping.
These findings challenge existing theories about the generation and propagation of chorus waves, as noted by Cao Jinbin, a co-author from Beihang University. Richard Horne of the British Antarctic Survey highlighted the importance of this discovery for understanding space weather and its potential threats. Chorus waves can accelerate electrons to high energies, creating "killer electrons" that have historically damaged satellites, costing significant sums. This research not only expands our understanding of deep space radiation but also emphasizes the need for improved prediction and protection measures for space technology.
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