Monthly Archive 18/10/2024

Interviewer: It’s been a year since EA transitioned from the FIFA branding to EA Sports FC for their flagship football game. How was this change received at launch?

Keith Stuart: The rebrand did see a slight dip in sales—around 5%—but interestingly, profits increased. This was largely due to the success of the Ultimate Team feature, which continues to be a significant revenue driver for EA.

Interviewer: Now, looking at EA Sports FC 25, what differentiates this version from its predecessor?

Keith Stuart: While it doesn’t introduce any groundbreaking innovations, EA Sports FC 25 offers some exciting enhancements. Last year focused on HyperMotion2 animation technology, and this year’s highlight is FC IQ. This feature deepens the strategic gameplay, allowing players to customize their teams and individual players’ approaches. For instance, you can adjust a player’s aggressiveness, like Saka at Arsenal, instructing the AI to prioritize offensive runs over defensive responsibilities.

Interviewer: That sounds like a compelling addition. Can you share more about the gameplay modes available in this edition?

Keith Stuart: Of course! It retains familiar modes like Manager and Player Careers, Seasons, Tournaments, and Clubs. The new standout mode is Rush, which takes over from the previous street football option, Volta. Rush presents a fast-paced five-a-side format that emphasizes quick passes and targeted play. Ultimate Team is back as well, featuring minor updates but maintaining the addictive format that fans love.

Interviewer: What’s the gameplay experience like in terms of graphics and animations?

Keith Stuart: The graphics and animation engine has undergone a significant upgrade, resulting in a visually stunning and immersive experience. Player movements are smooth, with dynamic responses to the ball creating a richer gameplay feel. I played several matches with my sons, and we really noticed how distinct each team felt—attacking with Juventus was a different experience compared to playing with Real Madrid, which was very apparent this time around.

Interviewer: What were some memorable moments for you while playing as the star players?

Keith Stuart: Playing as elite players like Foden, Haaland, or De Bruyne is truly exhilarating. You can really feel their unique traits; for example, Foden’s acceleration is remarkable. There are moments in gameplay where executing skillful moves with players like Jamal Musiala or Aitana Bonmatí feels almost genius-level—similar to the thrill of mastering complex combos in classic fighting games.

Interviewer: Did you encounter any technical issues during your gameplay?

Keith Stuart: Unfortunately, yes. I experienced some graphical glitches, like overlapping HUD text and awkward player collisions during chaotic goal scenarios—it felt a bit surreal, like a scene out of a Cronenberg film. The first-person camera, which lets you see through players’ or even the referee’s eyes, can also be a bit disorienting at times.

Interviewer: Would you say EA Sports FC 25 represents a significant advancement over its predecessor?

Keith Stuart: It’s more of an evolution than a revolution. To fully appreciate the new technical features, players will need to explore the complex pre-match menu systems, which might not cater to everyone. Additionally, Ultimate Team continues to face scrutiny regarding its in-game purchase mechanics.

Interviewer: Lastly, who would you recommend this game to?

Keith Stuart: If you enjoy playing with updated rosters and stats or perhaps missed the last edition, EA Sports FC 25 will definitely keep you entertained for hours. It has high aspirations and, more often than not, meets them. It’s set to launch on September 27 across various platforms, including PC, PS4/5, Switch, and Xbox One/Series X.

John J. Chin has officially taken on the role of Acting Director of the Asian American / Asian Research Institute (AAARI) at Queens College, which is part of the City University of New York (CUNY). The university has announced plans to initiate a formal search for a permanent director within the next year. AAARI is committed to advancing and sharing research and educational resources that highlight Asia, Asian Americans, and their communities.

Before this appointment, Chin held the position of chair of the Urban Policy and Planning Department at Hunter College. With over three decades of research experience in Asian communities, he has a strong focus on improving access to social and health services for underserved populations, particularly among Asian immigrants.

In reflecting on his new role as Acting Director of AAARI, Chin emphasized the importance of amplifying the stories within the Asian community that often go unheard. “Many contributions and needs are not fully understood, so I see this position as a crucial opportunity to ensure these narratives are represented accurately,” he remarked.

Queens College President Frank Wu highlighted AAARI’s vital function as a connector between CUNY and New York City’s Asian community. As the search for a permanent director unfolds, Professor Chin is expected to lead effectively, especially in relation to public policies affecting the health of immigrant workers.

Chin’s recent research has delved into the health requirements of immigrant communities. In a study funded by the National Institutes of Health, he examined how Asian immigrant organizations communicate information about HIV prevention while working to diminish the stigma surrounding the disease within their communities.

According to the National Healthcare Security Administration’s website, various healthcare insurance departments across China have stepped up their oversight of healthcare funds this year, implementing stringent measures to combat fraud and abuse. A number of notable cases of illegal use of healthcare funds have come to light, particularly from Liaoning Province.

**1. Issues at Kangda Hospital in Yingkou Economic and Technological Development Zone**
In September 2023, following tips from a provincial inspection team, an investigation was initiated into Kangda Hospital. The inquiry uncovered numerous violations, including duplicate billing, swapping of treatment items, charging inflated fees, conducting unnecessary tests, excessive medical procedures, fragmented hospitalizations, and including non-reimbursable expenses in settlements with the healthcare fund. As a result, the Yingkou Healthcare Security Bureau mandated that the hospital correct its practices, return 116,296.80 yuan in improperly used funds, and pay an administrative fine of 141,413.11 yuan. The hospital has since reimbursed all misappropriated healthcare funds and settled the fine in full.

**2. Problems at Beipiao Tonghe Hospital Co., Ltd.**
In October 2023, the Chaoyang Healthcare Security Bureau conducted an onsite inspection of Beipiao Tonghe Hospital Co., Ltd. The audit revealed issues such as charging above standard rates, duplicate billing, and the inclusion of non-reimbursable medical expenses in the healthcare fund. In accordance with relevant regulations, the bureau required the hospital to rectify its practices, return 83,773.19 yuan in improperly used funds, and imposed a fine of 108,905.15 yuan, which is 1.3 times the amount misused. All funds have been recovered, and the fine has been fully paid.

**3. Violations at Qinghe Kangseng Hospital in Tieling**
In March 2024, the Tieling City Qinghe District Healthcare Security Bureau, while investigating cases transferred from the Tieling Healthcare Bureau, identified violations at Qinghe Kangseng Hospital. From November 19, 2021, to December 31, 2022, the hospital engaged in excessive billing and unnecessary treatments that contravened medical norms. The bureau’s actions included warning the hospital’s leadership to rectify the situation, demanding the return of 19,776.61 yuan in misused funds, and imposing a fine of 25,709.59 yuan, at 1.3 times the amount misused. The hospital has returned all wrongly used healthcare funds, and all fines have been paid.

**Editor: Ye Pan**

In a recent move aimed at reshaping the admissions landscape, California Governor Gavin Newsom has signed a significant bill that bans legacy admissions at private higher education institutions. Set to go into effect on September 1, 2025, this new legislation, known as AB 1780, stipulates that private colleges and universities in California cannot grant preferential treatment solely based on an applicant’s status as the child of an alumnus or a major donor. Institutions found to violate this law will face penalties, and while specifics about preferential admissions will be made public, the identities of admitted students will remain confidential.

As reported by the San Francisco Chronicle, this legislation particularly affects private universities that benefit from state funding, including renowned institutions like Stanford University and the University of Southern California (USC).

Assemblymember Phil Ting, who sponsored AB 1780, criticized legacy admissions as “affirmative action for the wealthy.” He advocates for a system where universities focus on admitting students who exhibit diligence, strong academic achievements, and diverse experiences, rather than those who simply have familial ties or deep pockets.

While California has no blanket prohibition on legacy admissions at public universities, both the University of California (UC) system and California State University (CSU) system have implemented their own restrictions against such practices. However, a 2020 audit highlighted some discrepancies; it found that UC Berkeley admitted at least 55 students who did not meet standard criteria, a decision that was sometimes influenced by connections and donations, including interventions from the UC Board of Regents.

Under the current California law, private universities are required to report annually on the number of students admitted through legacy admissions. This summer, six private universities, including Stanford, submitted these reports. The findings revealed that Stanford admitted 295 alumni children in the previous year, which made up 13.6% of their incoming class, while reiterating that all these students met the required criteria.

In the same academic year, USC reported admitting 1,791 legacy students, while Santa Clara University admitted 38. Claremont McKenna College and Harvey Mudd College each admitted 15 legacy students, and Northeastern University in Oakland accepted fewer than ten.

The weather in the UK this June has sparked a wave of responses on social media, with some users attributing the unusual conditions to “weather manipulation” and “geoengineering.” More strikingly, a number of individuals have gone so far as to accuse meteorologists of concealing the truth about the climate situation.

For much of June, temperatures were about 2°C (3.6°F) below the average, a change largely influenced by colder air descending from the Arctic. However, the last week of the month saw a shift as warmer air moved in, pushing temperatures closer to the norm, though they still remained 0.4°C below average. This, combined with one of the wettest winters in recent memory, has left many questioning the current state of British weather. Unfortunately, many of the explanations circulating on social media lack scientific backing.

Some users argue that the cooler weather challenges the reality of climate change. However, it’s important to note that short-term weather patterns do not reflect long-term climate trends in the UK. In fact, recent decades have recorded warmer, wetter, and sunnier conditions when compared to the 20th century, as climate change continues to progress.

A worrying trend has emerged among skeptics of climate change, with some promoting a conspiracy theory that the government is systematically manipulating weather and climate for sinister purposes. Variations of this theory have circulated online for years, often gaining traction after unusual weather events. BBC Verify used social media analytics to reveal a notable uptick in conversations around these topics, with mentions of #GeoEngineering on X (formerly Twitter) more than doubling globally since January compared to late 2023. The outlet uncovered thousands of tweets spreading misinformation and conspiracy theories, often conflating concepts like weather modification and geoengineering.

The most recognized form of weather modification is cloud seeding, a technique that releases small particles into clouds to induce rain or snow. This method has been utilized for decades in various countries, primarily to alleviate water shortages. However, some social media users have mistakenly claimed that the heavy rainfall seen in the UK can only be explained through large-scale cloud seeding, a notion that is unfounded. As the planet warms, warmer air can hold more moisture, resulting in more intense downpours. While climate change is not the sole factor behind the UK’s unusually wet winter, it is a significant contributor.

Although the UK government funded cloud seeding experiments back in the 1950s, the Met Office currently reports no knowledge of weather modification activities in the UK in recent years. Moreover, cloud seeding has limited, localized effects and does not alter long-term weather patterns or climate, where concepts of geoengineering become relevant.

Geoengineering encompasses attempts to manipulate the environment to mitigate the impacts of climate change. Current climate models indicate that, without significant intervention, global temperatures could rise more than 1.5°C in the coming decades, surpassing a critical threshold. In response to these challenges, some scientists advocate for governments to investigate alternative cooling methods, such as capturing and removing greenhouse gases from the atmosphere, a field actively researched in the UK. However, there is no evidence to suggest that removing gases like carbon dioxide would affect short-term weather patterns. Another proposed method, solar radiation management, would aim to reflect some sunlight back into space.

Injecting gases like sulfur dioxide into the stratosphere could theoretically cool the planet, although research in this area is still in the early stages. The UK government’s Department for Energy Security and Net Zero maintains that it is neither currently implementing solar radiation management nor plans to do so in the future. Still, some users on social media allege, without substantiation, that a cover-up is occurring, implicating BBC Weather and other forecasters.

One social media user expressed, “Imagine watching the geoengineers at work while weather reporters omit the truth about what’s really happening. That is sick!” Many of these users frequently reference “chemtrails,” a thoroughly discredited conspiracy theory suggesting a covert effort to spray harmful chemicals over the population.

The Royal Meteorological Society has condemned the abuse that weather forecasters face, noting that such disrespect can hinder scientific communication. Prof. Liz Bentley, CEO of the Royal Meteorological Society, expressed concern about the chilling effects this may have on young scientists who might hesitate to share their research due to fears of online trolling. Additionally, Dr. Ramit Debnath, an assistant professor at the University of Cambridge, pointed out that skepticism surrounding funding for geoengineering research may grow as conspiracy theories proliferate. “There’s an overarching belief that there’s an attempt to manipulate our natural resources and environment, possibly compromising people’s freedom,” he noted.

Interviewer: During menopause, many physical changes occur, but one aspect that often goes unnoticed is oral health. What insights can you share about the oral health challenges women face during this time?

Expert: Menopause indeed brings about various health issues, and oral health is frequently overlooked. One of the key changes during menopause is a decline in bone density and saliva production. If women aren’t mindful of their diet and oral hygiene, they could easily face problems like cavities, periodontal disease, and burning mouth syndrome.

Interviewer: Are there specific recommendations you would provide for maintaining oral health during menopause?

Expert: Absolutely. It’s essential for women to focus on a balanced diet rich in nutrients that support bone density, such as calcium and vitamin D. Regular dental check-ups and good oral hygiene practices—like brushing and flossing daily—are also crucial to prevent these potential issues.

Interviewer: Thank you for shedding light on this often-neglected topic. It’s important for women to be proactive in caring for their oral health during menopause.

In a recent interview, former member of the Investments and Securities Tribunal, Mr. Osemwengie Smart, shed light on the crucial role the tribunal plays in instilling confidence among domestic and international investors in the Nigerian economy. He discussed the tribunal’s inception, accomplishments, challenges, and its future trajectory.

When asked about the rationale behind establishing the Investments and Securities Tribunal (IST) amidst existing court systems, Mr. Smart explained, “The capital market operates on a tight schedule. Regular courts often lead to prolonged delays, rendering the relevance of disputes moot by the time they are resolved. The government recognized the need for a specialized court to fast-track capital market cases, which led to the formation of the Defeat Committee. This committee recommended creating the IST, a tribunal specially designed to resolve disputes within a strict three-month timeframe, in stark contrast to conventional courts where cases can drag on for years.”

Reflecting on his time on the tribunal, Mr. Smart was asked if there were any complex cases that necessitated extending the three-month limit. He replied, “Not at all. Throughout my tenure, we consistently adhered to that three-month timeline. To my knowledge, none of my colleagues have exceeded this deadline either.”

The conversation then turned to the procedures followed if a case could not be resolved amicably within the designated period. Mr. Smart elaborated, “We strongly encourage settlements and often seek to resolve issues without lengthy litigation. If both parties express interest in finding common ground, we can grant an additional month or two for them to negotiate. If they succeed in reaching an agreement, we accept their terms as the court’s judgment. However, if they can’t settle, we proceed with the case.”

Regarding the proportion of disputes resolved out of court compared to those that enter full litigation, he noted, “Fewer cases end up settling out of court compared to those that go to litigation. This can sometimes be attributed to the practices of some lawyers, who may prefer the courtroom in order to justify their fees, believing that a settlement might diminish their efforts. Nevertheless, we do have an Alternative Dispute Resolution (ADR) center available for simpler disputes or those involving smaller amounts.”

On evaluating the effectiveness of the IST in resolving investment disputes, Mr. Smart asserted, “The IST has demonstrated remarkable effectiveness. It handles both appellate and original cases, with a prerequisite that investors must first attempt to resolve disputes with the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC). Should they be dissatisfied with the SEC’s outcome, they can appeal to the tribunal. Moreover, if there are delays from the SEC, investors can escalate the situation to the IST without being held up indefinitely.”

He emphasized the tribunal’s positive influence on investor confidence: “The settlements we facilitate enhance investor trust. Foreign investors observe that the SEC is actively engaging with cryptocurrency exchanges, which signals a reliable mechanism for resolving disputes. This confidence has bolstered Nigeria’s standing as a signatory to the International Organization of Securities Commissions (IOSCO), further elevating investor trust.”

The discussion then shifted to the IST’s accessibility and engagement with investors. Mr. Smart remarked, “The IST is well-utilized, with offices not only in Abuja and Lagos but also in Kano, Enugu, and Port Harcourt. We cater specifically to capital market investors who know where to seek resolution for their disputes, as confirmed by a recent Supreme Court ruling. The court established that the IST holds exclusive jurisdiction over capital market disputes.”

Addressing concerns about the tribunal potentially being overwhelmed, he reassured, “The court is not overloaded. The laws have been significantly refined since their introduction in 1999. Now, any claims involving capital market operators must first be directed to the SEC, which helps prevent minor cases from congesting the system.”

While acknowledging some challenges in enforcement, Mr. Smart stated, “Enforcement can present challenges, as our judgments must be registered with the Federal High Court for execution. However, most cases comply without necessitating further action. There is an opportunity for the government to strengthen this process by allocating resources to develop an enforcement unit, which would be advantageous.”

Can you share your experience on a unique travel trip with Traveleyes, which connects visually impaired travelers with sighted guides? What was it like to explore the stunning landscapes of Austria and Germany?

While I was swimming in a cool, clear lake surrounded by majestic mountains and an approaching Alpine storm, I realized that I was missing out on the visual splendor of the moment. Fortunately, my travel companion, Sophia, vividly described the scenery, enabling me to experience it in a way that resonated deeply with me.

What inspired you to join a Traveleyes trip?

Having been visually impaired my whole life, I was eager to engage in this travel model. I love to travel, but navigating unfamiliar places often requires assistance. I was hesitant to join a conventional group holiday because I feared feeling out of place or being a burden to others.

What were your initial feelings about traveling with a group of strangers?

I was definitely apprehensive about traveling abroad with new people at first. However, our tour manager, Liz, greeted us warmly, which quickly put me at ease. Before long, I found myself enjoying comfortable conversations with my guides and fellow visually impaired travelers over a cappuccino, which really helped me relax.

Can you describe the group dynamics on your trip?

Our group consisted of 10 visually impaired travelers along with 11 sighted guides, plus our local guide, Dorothea. We stayed at a beautiful hotel in the Tirol region of Austria, with planned itineraries that made everything smoother. I enjoyed swimming in the hotel’s infinity pool and sharing meals, where we bonded over local dishes like spinach dumplings and rich cheeses, exchanging stories that strengthened our connections.

What advantages did you find in being paired with sighted guides during your excursions?

Being paired with sighted guides offered significant benefits for visually impaired travelers like myself, providing crucial support. Interestingly, many sighted guides are attracted to this travel model because it allows them to join in the adventure while also experiencing the joys of guiding rather than caregiving, making it a fulfilling experience for everyone involved.

How did you feel about the daily changes in your guides?

Each day introduced us to a new guide, fostering connections within the group. For instance, while exploring Innsbruck, my guide Jackson offered detailed descriptions of our surroundings. Even though I could perceive some parts of the environment, his descriptions enriched my understanding of what I could hear and feel, deepening my overall experience.

What memorable sensory experiences did you encounter during the trip?

The trip was definitely active, requiring a commitment of energy. I was captivated by the lush scent of pine trees while hiking and the delightful smell of flowers we encountered along the way. A particularly memorable moment occurred on the cogwheel train ride to Lake Achen, where we paused to listen to a choir rehearsing, creating an unforgettable atmosphere that I’ll always cherish.

What insights did you gain from this experience in the world?

This trip encouraged me to embrace my visual impairment rather than hide it. It felt natural to ask someone to describe a view or read a menu for me. Beyond the breathtaking locations, I valued the deep conversations and laughter shared with my travel companions, which fostered a strong sense of belonging. Looking back on the experience, I left with a renewed desire to explore even more of the world.

What are the costs associated with a trip like this?

Traveleyes offers trips starting at £745 for visually impaired individuals and £545 for sighted guides, making adventures accessible to people with varying needs.

In a recent interview, photojournalist Melanie Friend reflected on her extraordinary trip to China in 1986, a time when the country was just beginning to open its doors to the world. At just 28 years old, she dedicated seven months to preparing for the journey, taking night classes in Mandarin. Despite her efforts, she confessed that nothing could truly prepare her for the vibrant interactions she experienced during her month-long solo adventure.

“In the cities, people were somewhat accustomed to seeing Western students, but in the rural areas, it was quite different,” Friend shared. “I was met with a lot of curiosity and an overwhelming sense of friendliness from the locals.”

The timing of her visit was perfect, aligning with a growing interest in emerging China. As a freelancer, Friend had secured commitments from several publications, including The Economist and The Times, eager to share her insights. This support allowed her to delve deeper into her explorations. “Early on in my trip, I found myself alone in a hotel room feeling quite hopeless. So I decided to take a bike and venture into the back streets. That’s when I really began to connect with people in spontaneous and meaningful ways,” she reflected.

These newfound encounters are vividly captured in her recently released short book, which celebrates the serendipity of her travels. Friend’s photography showcases a dynamic mix of first-ever advertising billboards clashing with government slogans, bicycles dominating the newly built highways, and snapshots of daily life—such as elderly men engrossed in games of Xiangqi and children captivated by comic books. A particularly memorable moment occurred in a Shanghai restaurant, where she observed a couple celebrating their wedding at a nearby table. “I noticed this joyful gathering and introduced myself, despite my limited language skills. They seemed genuinely happy at the idea of a photograph,” she recalled. “Every time I look at that image, I’m flooded with warm memories of all those beautiful interactions.”

Friend’s work, China, 1986, published by Cafe Royal Books, invites readers to experience the warmth and spontaneity of her journey through her captivating lens.

I recently had the pleasure of interviewing representatives from the Central Academy of Fine Arts about the thrilling “YANG美·固安” exhibition, which highlights their cultural and educational collaboration with Gu’an’s non-material cultural heritage. The exhibition, which has recently opened in Gu’an, has been garnering significant attention from visitors.

The organizers shared that faculty and students from the academy devoted three months to exploring traditional crafts in Gu’an, including egg carving, willow weaving, embroidery, and Zhang’s gourd art. Their goal was to both uncover and innovate upon the area’s rich traditional culture. By blending heritage preservation with creative innovation, the exhibition features a diverse array of artworks, transforming Gu’an into a vibrant artistic “new landscape.” This gives audiences a fresh perspective that showcases the dynamism and charm of non-material culture while also celebrating contemporary artistic expression.

I discovered that the exhibition employs experimental art to manifest its visions, seeking new opportunities within the current artistic landscape. It actively encourages students and faculty to collectively delve into this “materialization” as a form of experimental accumulation, opening up avenues for public and social engagement in art and revitalizing social aesthetics in the process.

Wang Xiaolin, the Deputy Secretary of the Party Committee at the Central Academy of Fine Arts, elaborated on their strategic development plan aimed at integrating art with modern industrial systems. She noted that the exhibition exemplifies this approach. “Gu’an is rich in non-material cultural heritage, and it represents a significant asset for cultural diversity. Our faculty and students have engaged deeply with local heritage projects, such as Beijing embroidery and willow weaving, learning from folk artists and producing 23 innovative experimental works that illustrate the creative transformation and development of traditional culture,” she explained.

The “YANG美·固安” exhibition signifies a profound integration of education and culture, facilitating meaningful exchanges and collaborations with local communities. Through artistic creation, academic research, public art displays, and unique cultural performances, the exhibition merges tradition with modernity. Luo Meng, Chairman of Beijing Caishi Cultural Group, emphasized that the initiative fully showcases the cultural wealth of Gu’an while exploring the intersection of unique cultural heritage and contemporary art, thus fostering growth in the cultural industry. Professor Zhang Guolong from the Academy highlighted that the “materialization” in experimental art encourages the discovery of new possibilities, infusing fresh energy into social aesthetics.

Co-hosted by the Gu’an Bureau of Culture, Radio, Television and Tourism, alongside the School of Experimental Art and Technology at the Central Academy of Fine Arts, the exhibition is just one facet of what’s happening in the area. The inaugural “Charming Jingnan: Artistic Gu’an” Cultural and Arts Festival will include a series of performances and workshops, such as lacquer fan-making, printmaking, and pottery experiences. This vibrant cultural arts initiative is set to engage the local community and will continue through October 7.