Author: shuiyaoinns.com

On September 6, Taylor Fritz triumphed over his fellow American Frances Tiafoe in a thrilling five-set match at the US Open semifinals, with scores of 4-6, 7-5, 4-6, 6-4, 6-1. This victory makes him the first American man to reach a Grand Slam singles final in 15 years.

According to reports from Reuters and AFP, the 12th seed, Fritz, capitalized on his strong serve throughout the match, firing off an impressive 16 aces, including the final point of the match, which he secured with an ace.

Tiafoe started strong but struggled to maintain his momentum, ending up with 50 unforced errors and 9 double faults, which ultimately cost him the match.

Looking ahead, Fritz will face the world’s top-ranked player, Italy’s Jannik Sinner, in the final on September 8, hoping to end a 21-year drought for American men in Grand Slam singles championships.

In a groundbreaking showcase of technological progress, a patient paralyzed from a spinal cord injury has been fitted with a cutting-edge robotic device at the Third Affiliated Hospital of Sun Yat-sen University. This innovative device connects to the knees, thighs, and waist, allowing the patient to initiate movement simply by thinking, guided by animations projected on a screen.

“This robot aids patients with spinal cord injuries in muscle training and helps rebuild neural circuits, which significantly enhances treatment outcomes,” said Dr. Rong Limin, the hospital’s president and a spinal surgery expert. He pointed out that ongoing innovations in clinical practice are expanding treatment possibilities and offering renewed hope to patients dealing with complex medical challenges. As technology progresses, tools like brain-machine interfaces and artificial intelligence are becoming integral to medical environments.

Spinal cord injuries, severe traumas to the central nervous system, can lead to profound impairments in movement, sensation, and functions related to the bowel and bladder, often resulting in paralysis. Prolonged bed rest associated with these injuries can lead to additional complications, such as venous thromboembolism and pressure sores.

Recently, the Guangdong Provincial Health Commission organized a visit to the Third Affiliated Hospital as part of its Health New Quality Productivity initiative. During the visit, it became evident that the hospital is pioneering innovative treatment strategies for spinal cord injuries. While traditional care methods typically include surgery, medication, rehabilitation, and acupuncture, the medical community is now exploring a more holistic approach incorporating stem cells, brain-controlled exoskeletons, and biomaterial transplantation.

“With brain imaging and visual feedback, patients can operate the robot, which facilitates movement,” stated Dr. Rong. He noted that this level of interaction positively impacts the patient’s cortical activity, fostering a more hopeful outlook on their treatment journey.

Chronic sinusitis, notorious for its propensity to recur, often subjects patients to numerous surgeries due to the diverse subtypes of the condition, which undermine the effectiveness of a “one-size-fits-all” diagnostic approach.

In the hospital’s ENT department, an AI-driven diagnostic report has been developed to classify chronic sinusitis. “What used to take a doctor five hours can now be done by AI in just one minute with an accuracy rate of 98%,” explained Dr. Yang Qintai, the hospital’s vice president.

In addressing these complexities, interdisciplinary teams from the hospital’s Allergy Department and AI Center are working on an AI diagnostic system for nasal polyps, which is now being implemented in clinical settings. Building on the AI recognition system for chronic sinusitis, the Allergy and ENT teams have also launched a project to identify pollen types using AI, in collaboration with the Guangdong Meteorological Bureau and the South China Botanical Garden of the Chinese Academy of Sciences. This new initiative aims to provide timely alerts to allergy sufferers, helping them avoid high pollen concentrations.

“In today’s clinical environment, physicians are expected to nurture cells, care for laboratory animals, and manage data,” stressed Dr. Yang, who expressed a keen interest in exploring multi-modal AI solutions to better meet patient needs.

On October 8, 2024, at 7:00 PM EDT, we’re inviting our readers to take on an exhilarating challenge. The goal is to fill in a grid so that every row, column, and 3×3 box contains the numbers 1 through 9. If you’re eager to check your answers or discover the solution, don’t miss the next issue of the Guardian. We feature puzzles from Monday to Thursday, and for those released on Friday and Saturday, you can find the solutions in either the Saturday or Monday editions. Happy puzzling!

In a recent interview featuring global leaders, the critical reality of our interconnected destinies was underscored, highlighting the essential role of collaborative efforts in meeting today’s challenges. The discourse called for the international community to strengthen unity and cooperation, enhancing global governance to secure a peaceful, prosperous future for generations ahead.

The recent United Nations Future Summit culminated in the adoption of the “Future Covenant,” which includes important annexes like the “Global Digital Covenant” and the “Declaration for Future Generations.” This framework establishes a clear vision for global development, advocating for a reform of the global governance system to effectively tackle worldwide issues. Given the current volatile international landscape, the revitalization of multilateralism and the enhancement of global governance are urgent priorities for progress.

In recent years, the global arena has seen significant instability and a myriad of challenges, emphasizing the necessity for enhanced international cooperation. However, some nations continue to cling to unilateralism and protectionism, forming exclusive groups that exacerbate tensions and hinder collective action. During the UN Future Summit, Ugandan Prime Minister Robinah Nabbanja, representing the Group of 77 countries, highlighted the detrimental effects of an inequitable global economic order on developing nations, stressing the critical need to address this issue. UN Secretary-General António Guterres remarked on the tumultuous transformation the world is undergoing and emphasized that decisive initial steps are required to rejuvenate and reform international cooperation.

To promote effective multilateralism and advance global governance, it is essential to uphold a UN-centered international system grounded in international law and the principles enshrined in the UN Charter. The “Future Covenant” and its annexes focus on five crucial areas: sustainable development and financing, international peace and security, science, technology and innovation, youth and future generations, and the transformation of global governance. The emphasis is on strengthening a UN-centric multilateral framework and ushering in a new era of cooperation. Csaba Kőrösi, President of the 79th UN General Assembly, noted that the “Future Covenant” not only addresses current crises but also serves as a foundation for a sustainable, equitable, and peaceful world order.

At the heart of humanity’s needs lies security. The international community must pursue collective, comprehensive, cooperative, and sustainable security, while upholding the sovereignty and territorial integrity of all nations. This entails rejecting interference in domestic matters and allowing nations to independently determine their developmental paths and social systems. Dialogue and negotiation should be prioritized to peacefully resolve disputes, steering clear of the use of force in international relations, and striving to create a shared global security community. Major powers should particularly lead by example, broadening their perspectives beyond narrow geopolitical interests to foster global unity and peace.

Development has long been—and will continue to be—a central theme for humanity. The “Future Covenant” reaffirms the primary objective of multilateralism: achieving sustainable development and ensuring that no one is left behind. The international community should place development at the forefront, fully implementing the UN 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development, and reinforcing developmental priorities on the global stage. A people-centered approach must drive inclusive globalization, allowing everyone to partake and benefit from shared prosperity. It’s imperative to bolster the multilateral trading system anchored by the World Trade Organization, ensuring the stability and smooth operation of global supply chains while resisting the politicization and weaponization of trade.

Justice and fairness are universal aspirations. Regardless of a nation’s size or strength, each country should be treated as an equal member of the international community. International matters must be addressed collectively to promote an equitable multipolar world, which includes upholding a UN-centered international system and resisting unilateral sanctions and arbitrary acts of dominance. The increasing voice of the Global South is contributing significantly to international fairness and justice, highlighting the need for a global governance system that reflects contemporary political and economic realities.

Scientific and technological advancements are pivotal to progress in today’s world. As we experience a wave of technological revolution and industrial change, new opportunities and challenges emerge for humanity and global governance. The international community must innovate and adapt governance strategies to ensure fairness and justice. In pursuing the development and use of artificial intelligence, nations should prioritize principles that respect humanity, promote goodwill, and ensure mutual respect, all while adhering to international laws. It is essential to support the UN’s role in AI governance to better represent developing nations, ensuring equal rights, opportunities, and rules in AI development while addressing issues of digital inequality.

As President Xi Jinping eloquently stated, “Practicing true multilateralism and supporting the UN’s central role in international affairs have always been, and will remain, fundamental principles of China’s diplomacy.” As a permanent member of the UN Security Council and a responsible global actor, China is committed to collaborating with the international community to uphold genuine multilateralism, promote an equitable and orderly multipolar world, stimulate inclusive economic globalization, and strive for shared peace and prosperity for all.

On the morning of October 7th, an Israeli military spokesperson confirmed the deployment of three additional reserve units aimed at expanding ground operations in southern Lebanon. This announcement comes just a week after a “limited” ground incursion began in the area.

The addition of these reserve units marks a notable escalation in the Israeli army’s activities in the region. The soldiers, who have been actively engaged in conflict in the Gaza Strip and northern territories over the past year, have recently been re-mobilized in the last two weeks.

Commander Shai Klapper reached out to the troops, highlighting that this marks the first deployment of reserve forces to the northern front. He underscored the mission’s significance, stating, “Now we are going to launch attacks on enemy territory. This is the moment to change the security situation in the north, so that residents can return to their homes.”

On October 7th, American Water Works, the largest water utility in the United States, confirmed it had fallen victim to a cyber attack. In light of this incident, the company has temporarily disabled its customer service portal and put a hold on billing operations for its customers. As they work closely with investigators to uncover the attack’s origins, American Water reassured the public that there has been no compromise to water supply systems or operations, maintaining that tap water remains safe for consumption.

According to reports from the Associated Press and CBS, Camden, New Jersey-based American Water Works serves over 14 million customers across 14 states, including 18 military facilities, making it the nation’s foremost provider of water and wastewater services.

The company detected unauthorized access to its systems on October 3rd and quickly identified it as a cybersecurity breach. In response, they took immediate protective measures, including shutting down certain systems. While they affirm that the incident has not disrupted water supply or operations, the full impact is still being assessed.

In the meantime, employees are actively involved in investigating the scope and nature of the breach. The company has also notified law enforcement and is collaborating with them on the investigation. Customers will not face late fees during this period of system inaccessibility.

A spokesperson for American Water stated, “To safeguard customer information and prevent any further environmental impact, we have disconnected or deactivated certain systems. During this downtime, we will not charge customers late fees.”

The company’s website notes that it oversees over 500 water and wastewater systems in about 1,700 communities across states such as California, Georgia, Hawaii, Illinois, Indiana, Iowa, Kentucky, Maryland, Missouri, New Jersey, Pennsylvania, Tennessee, Virginia, and West Virginia.

Additionally, The Wall Street Journal highlighted growing concerns among U.S. officials regarding reported intrusions by Chinese intelligence agents into critical American infrastructure, including water treatment facilities. They suspect recent cyber attacks targeting U.S. broadband providers could have connections to the Chinese government.

An EPA spokesperson commented on this troubling trend, indicating that foreign cybercriminals have increasingly prioritized the disruption of essential national infrastructure: “All drinking water and wastewater systems, regardless of size or location, are at risk.”

In a significant step forward for healthcare in Nigeria, Evercare Hospital Lekki has partnered with Medical Electronics (MedEl) to officially launch advanced Cochlear implant surgery aimed at addressing hearing disabilities.

Cochlear implants are revolutionary medical devices designed to restore hearing by bypassing damaged hair cells in the inner ear. They work by transmitting electrical sound signals directly to the hearing nerve, ultimately reaching the brain, which offers hope to those experiencing profound hearing loss.

The inaugural surgeries were performed by a multidisciplinary medical team, led by Prof. Marco Mandala, an Ear Nose and Throat (ENT) surgeon from the University of Siena in Italy. The team successfully completed bilateral Cochlear implant surgeries on three children in Nigeria.

Earlier this year, MedEl, a leading provider of Cochlear hearing implants, established a partnership with Evercare Hospital Lekki. This collaboration aims to provide cutting-edge Cochlear implant technology to patients suffering from chronic to profound hearing loss not only in Nigeria but also in other emerging markets like Kenya and Pakistan where Evercare operates.

Stephanie Unterreider, Project Manager for Business Development and Regional Manager at MedEl, stressed the significance of post-operative care. “The aftercare process includes counseling and regular monitoring by Speech Therapists and Audiologists to support the patients’ transition into their daily lives,” she explained.

Unterreider further mentioned that this partnership will enhance access to hearing implant technologies across Nigeria and at partner hospitals throughout the Evercare Group. “We produce, develop, and provide the implants, and we are dedicated to investing in training initiatives to ensure that more individuals can receive quality hearing care and innovative Cochlear implant solutions.”

M. Irfan Khan, Chief Commercial Officer of Evercare Group, underscored the importance of this achievement. “This success highlights the progress our collaboration with MedEl is making in the communities we serve,” he noted.

Khan elaborated on the vision behind this partnership: “By leveraging international expertise and a shared commitment to inclusive healthcare, Evercare Group and MedEl aim to create a lasting impact that goes beyond borders, bringing the gift of hearing to those in need. Our collaboration marks a pivotal milestone in our mission to transform healthcare and offer advanced hearing solutions, fostering sustainable improvements in hearing health across emerging markets. By focusing on affordability and accessibility, we are making specialized healthcare available to everyone, ensuring a sustainable impact through the training of local healthcare professionals. The launch of Cochlear implant surgeries represents a crucial advancement in this collaborative effort.”

Can Christmas lights or heat lamps truly mimic the effects of red light therapy (RLT)? Is magnesium a crucial component for our health? And what exactly does the term “underconsumption core” mean? These are some questions we aim to explore.

It’s fair to say that the pursuit of wellness is a common goal for many of us, with the ultimate aim being to feel good—or at the very least, not feel bad. The fundamentals for achieving this are fairly well understood: maintaining a balanced diet, exercising regularly, ensuring adequate sleep, managing stress effectively, and fostering meaningful relationships. Yet, these essentials often take a backseat to more sensational wellness trends.

Every year, a wave of new health and wellness trends emerges, with many simply being revamped versions of older ideas. This year is no different, featuring a range of topics from red light therapy to magnesium, raw milk, and beyond—some of which spark genuine curiosity, while others may warrant a bit of skepticism.

**Red Light Therapy**
Red light therapy has transitioned from in-office treatments to at-home devices, with claims centered around benefits like reducing wrinkles, healing acne, and promoting hair growth. However, Dr. Prem Tripathi, a facial plastic surgeon based in California, urges caution. “There’s a limit to the benefits these devices can provide,” he notes, suggesting they should be viewed as supplementary tools rather than primary solutions. He also warns against experimenting with red Christmas lights or heat lamps promoted on social media, advising to choose products from reputable brands that have demonstrated effectiveness.

**Magnesium**
On social media platforms like TikTok, magnesium has emerged as a buzzword, with many asserting its anxiety-relieving properties. This essential mineral is vital for numerous bodily functions, and some emerging research backs its calming effects. However, experts agree that further comprehensive studies are needed. Incorporating magnesium-rich foods such as salmon, avocados, and beans into your diet is generally safe, but it’s wise to consult a healthcare professional before starting any supplements. As one researcher put it, “Like other interventions, magnesium isn’t a one-size-fits-all solution.”

**Raw Milk**
The trend surrounding raw milk has been gaining momentum, with supporters claiming it has superior vitamin and mineral content compared to pasteurized versions. However, the CDC disputes these assertions, and food safety experts highlight the increased risk of illness that comes with raw milk consumption. Dr. Marion Nestle from New York University cautions, “The chances of getting sick from raw milk far exceed those from pasteurized options.”

**At-Home Microbiome Testing Kits**
You’ve likely encountered advertisements for at-home microbiome testing kits flooding social media, promising personalized diet recommendations based on stool samples. While the gut microbiome is indeed crucial for overall health, many professionals caution against drawing overreaching conclusions from microbiome data, suggesting these kits are more suited for targeted diagnostic purposes rather than broad dietary guidance.

**Aura Points**
A playful trend on TikTok involves calculating one’s “aura points,” which reflects perceived energy and charm. Alaina Demopoulos explains that participants often adopt a self-assured demeanor while steering clear of behaviors that might be seen as awkward. While largely humorous, this trend does tap into deeper philosophical themes and serves as a commentary on social dynamics today.

**Psychedelics for Mental Health**
Research on the mental health benefits of psychedelics like LSD and psilocybin is ongoing, with potential implications for conditions such as depression and PTSD. However, the recent FDA rejection of MDMA-assisted therapy underscores the complexities at play. Founders of Cardea, Ross Ellenhorn and Dimitri Mugianis, argue that framing psychedelics solely as medications might overshadow their true potential as experiential tools.

**Underconsumption Core**
A growing movement on TikTok revolves around “underconsumption core,” which challenges consumerism by promoting strategies like reusing and upcycling. While some critics view this as merely reflecting typical lifestyles, the underlying message of minimizing waste is largely positive, albeit intertwined with various socioeconomic factors.

**Skincare for Kids**
The skincare market is expanding, particularly among Gen Alpha, with children as young as nine showing interest in sophisticated routines. Experts warn, though, that this could negatively impact children’s mental health and skin health, pointing out that most preteens don’t need advanced products—using them might lead to irritation and other skin issues.

**Digital Detoxing**
As smartphones dominate daily life, many are reassessing their technology dependence. Digital detoxes and the shift to “dumb phones” have gained popularity, especially in schools that have banned smartphones, yielding impressive results. The Guardian’s “Reclaim Your Brain” initiative has seen significant engagement, with participants reporting reduced screen time.

**Voluntary Celibacy and Egg Freezing**
The idea of voluntary celibacy is gaining traction, with personalities like Julia Fox noting a shift in cultural attitudes amid what some call a “sex recession.” Simultaneously, egg freezing is becoming more common as individuals look to have more control over their reproductive choices. Nonetheless, prospective parents should keep in mind that egg freezing doesn’t guarantee future successful pregnancies.

Navigating these trends requires us to stay informed and discerning about what genuinely contributes to our health and well-being.

This year, the tourism market experienced remarkable growth during the National Day holiday. Recent data from the Ministry of Culture and Tourism reveals that 765 million domestic trips were taken across China over the seven-day holiday period. This marks a 5.9% increase compared to last year and a notable 10.2% rise from the same period in 2019. As the holiday comes to a close, we’re starting to see tourism data rolling in from various regions.

During this National Day holiday, iconic locations such as the site of the First National Congress of the Communist Party in Shanghai, the Revolutionary Martyr’s Tower in Yan’an, and the Memorial Hall in Xibaipo were decked out in patriotic decor featuring the striking “China Red.” Online platforms reported an impressive 70% jump in average daily orders for popular red tourism sites across the country compared to last year.

Historical landmarks, ancient towns, and immersive cultural experiences have captivated travelers this year. Activities like Hanfu photography, hands-on cultural heritage experiences, and in-depth tours of historical sites have surged in popularity. According to the National Cultural Heritage Administration, museums nationwide welcomed 74.88 million visitors during the National Day holiday in 2024.

In Beijing, the city welcomed 21.6 million tourists during the holiday, reflecting an 18.35% increase from the previous year, with total tourism revenue reaching an impressive 26.885 billion yuan—up 11.67%. These figures set new historical benchmarks. Visitors flocked to engage in cultural tourism, explore the central axis of Beijing, venture to the suburbs, and visit vibrant street markets and cultural districts.

Over in Guangdong Province, from October 1 to 7, the area hosted 58.481 million tourists, a 6.2% increase year-on-year, generating 53.69 billion yuan in tourism revenue—an 8.9% rise. Popular attractions included historical trade route sites, classic red tourism locations, rural tourism hotspots, and ancient villages.

In Hunan Province, total visitor numbers reached 33.4561 million during the seven days of holiday, showing an impressive 25.78% increase over last year. Tourists’ estimated total expenditure for this period was about 38.263 billion yuan, marking a 14.6% rise compared to the previous year. The region saw a notable trend toward integrating diverse new tourism formats.

Sichuan Province also saw a bustling holiday, welcoming an estimated 55.318 million tourists, with total tourism spending reaching 34.837 billion yuan. These numbers reflect year-on-year increases of 11.09% and 9.48%, respectively. The province’s key attractions were thriving, with 17 five-star scenic spots drawing 4.2693 million visitors and generating ticket revenue of 185 million yuan—up 25.06% and 15.48% from last year. Remarkably, the Jiuzhaigou Scenic Area reached its capacity limit of 41,000 visitors for four straight days.

Liaoning Province’s unofficial data suggests that 55.976 million visitors enjoyed local tourism during the seven-day holiday, representing a 16.3% rise, with total tourism revenue hitting 37.55 billion yuan—an 18.1% increase. The province organized over 160 consumer promotions and hosted more than 600 cultural events, enriching the experiences of holidaymakers.

A trend towards “slow travel,” which encourages a more relaxed and unhurried travel experience, gained popularity during this National Day holiday. Alternative travel preferences such as county tours, mini getaways, and wellness trips are becoming increasingly favored.

Among the top travel destinations, cities like Beijing, Shanghai, Chengdu, Guangzhou, Hangzhou, Nanjing, Chongqing, Xi’an, Shenzhen, and Wuhan continue to be the most popular. In fact, areas like Huangshan, Aba Tibetan and Qiang Autonomous Prefecture, Datong, Linyi, Zhangjiajie, Kaifeng, Shangrao, Yinchuan, Shenyang, and Hohhot have reported the fastest growth rates among the top 100 destinations.

Interestingly, many young travelers are gravitating towards “county tourism,” leading to a remarkable 40% year-on-year increase in average daily bookings in these areas. A number of rapidly growing county destinations, including Linfen’s Xixian, Yuncheng’s Ruicheng, Yinchuan’s Helan, and Yan’an’s Yichuan, saw their growth rates exceed four times. Notably, three of these highlighted counties are in Shanxi, showcasing a spike in interest in ancient Shanxi architecture, spurred by popular gaming culture.

Additionally, a trend toward staggered travel to avoid peak crowds is emerging as a new norm. Booking data from online platforms indicates that travelers are increasingly opting to journey before and after the peak holiday times, with almost 30% departing early. In the weekend following the holiday, travel orders surged by 10% compared to the same weekend last September—signaling a shift toward spreading long holiday travel needs throughout the year for a more cost-effective and comfortable experience.

In a recent TikTok post, pop icon Dua Lipa stirred up excitement among her fans by unveiling an unconventional drink recipe. The unusual mix combines pickle juice and Mexican chili with diet cola, and she even encouraged her team to give it a shot. This quirky combination has left many fans both intrigued and puzzled.

During her TikTok session, Dua demonstrated her creation by mixing the diet cola with pickle juice and then adding chili and chili sauce. Her playful antics caught the eye of fellow restaurant patrons, who couldn’t help but stop and watch. Fans quickly flooded social media with reactions, with some joking, “If I drink that, my taste buds will sue me,” while others declared, “If it’s from Dua Lipa, I’d totally try it.” However, not everyone was on board; some labeled it “disgusting” and referred to it as “dark cuisine.” A few cheeky fans quipped, “It’s not that I want to drink it, it’s that you’re Dua.”

Dua Lipa’s star power shows no signs of waning. Her hit song “Break My Heart” has racked up over 620 million views on YouTube, and her collaboration with DaBaby on “Levitating” has reached an impressive 900 million views. With partnerships alongside major artists like Chris Martin from Coldplay and BLACKPINK, Dua continues to break records and captivate audiences worldwide.