Latest news with #Zhao
San Francisco Chronicle
a day ago
- Science
- San Francisco Chronicle
How changing ocean colors could impact California
Earth's oceans have been getting greener at the poles and becoming bluer closer to the equator, according to a study published Thursday in Science. The shift reflects changes in marine ecosystems, which experts say could affect fish populations and create problems for fisheries, including in California. 'It has lots of potential implications for the way we use the ocean,' said Raphael Kudela, a professor of ocean sciences at UC Santa Cruz, who wasn't part of the new study. The scientists analyzed satellite data from 2003 to 2022 to track ocean concentrations of chlorophyll, a green pigment that phytoplankton use to absorb sunlight and produce sugars. While phytoplankton are often associated with harmful algal blooms, they are also the base of the marine food web, serving as food for fish and other sea creatures. Ocean regions with the highest concentrations of chlorophyll, or the greenest areas, were at higher latitudes, toward the poles. Mid-latitudes had relatively low levels of chlorophyll, or were more blue. The authors tracked global shifts in chlorophyll concentrations, a proxy for phytoplankton populations, over recent decades. The authors associated the poleward 'greening' with increasing sea-surface temperatures. 'This uneven distribution of chlorophyll (has been) intensifying over the past 20 years,' said lead author Haipeng Zhao, a postdoctoral researcher at the Georgia Institute of Technology. Zhao performed the research while at Duke University. The scientists quantified the trend using the Gini index, a measure typically used for studying wealth disparities. Kudela, of UC Santa Cruz, described the approach as 'a very elegant way' to address the question of whether ocean waters have been getting greener toward the poles. The new study analyzed open ocean waters; researchers didn't directly address coastal regions, like the Pacific Ocean waters offshore of California. Sediment in shallow coastal waters complicates satellite data: 'We don't think there's an effective algorithm that can accurately gather the phytoplankton concentrations in those coastal regions,' Zhao said. Coastal waters and the open ocean also experience distinct physical processes, Zhao explained. Kudela expects that the poleward shift in chlorophyll and phytoplankton described by the authors extends to the California coast, though the data could be noisier. Much of California lines up with latitudes associated with ocean waters that have gotten bluer over recent decades. Latitudes north of roughly Humboldt Bay have gotten greener. Scientists have already observed changes in marine environments: 'We're seeing organisms in California and Oregon and Washington moving northward because they're basically trying to follow their preferred temperature,' said Kudela, who authored a perspective accompanying the new study. Kudela noted in the perspective that the new results contrast with those of a 2023 study, which reported that oceans have become greener at low latitudes in recent decades and that the trend wasn't associated with sea-surface temperatures. That analysis, however, used a different type of satellite observation. El Niño conditions, associated with warmer-than-average sea surface temperatures, have provided short glimpses into what California waters could be like if global oceans warm, Kudela said. 'We oftentimes see the peak anchovy abundance shifts from Central California (and) Monterey up into Northern California,' Kudela said. Yellowfin tuna and dorado, normally found off Mexico, are more common off Southern California during El Niño years. The authors write that additional decades of satellite data are needed to determine whether poleward greening is a product of natural variability or driven by climate change.
Wales Online
2 days ago
- Sport
- Wales Online
World Snooker Championship winner compared to ‘billionaire's son' as he receives warning
World Snooker Championship winner compared to 'billionaire's son' as he receives warning Zhao Xintong won his maiden World Snooker Championship last month, but Anthony Hamilton believes the Chinese star will never dominate the sport like Judd Trump World snooker champion Zhao Xintong has been warned by Anthony Hamilton (Image: Getty Images ) Snooker veteran Anthony Hamilton has offered some advice to rising star Zhao Xintong, suggesting that despite his evident talent, he may not reach the heights of dominance achieved by Judd Trump. The Englishman, who hung up his cue earlier this month after a 31-year career, has been full of praise for the Chinese sensation following his World Championship win against Mark Williams at The Crucible. Zhao's ascent in the snooker world was marked by his breakthrough during the 2021/22 season, clinching the 2021 UK Championship and then the 2022 German Masters. Known as the Cyclone, Zhao's relaxed playing style has caught Hamilton's eye, who likened it to that of a "billionaire's son". "It looks like he's just on a little Sunday stroll in the club when he's playing," he told Metro. "You know what he plays like? He plays like a billionaire's son." However, while acknowledging Zhao's skill, the Sheriff of Pottingham expressed doubts about his ability to consistently dominate the sport in the manner of current world No. 1 Trump. "He might go missing again for another half of the season," Hamilton commented on Zhao's potential inconsistency. "He's done it before, where he's won tournaments and gone missing because it just looks like it's the way he plays. Article continues below Judd Trump remains the world number one (Image: Getty Images ) "He could go missing, but then he could win two back-to-back, easy. He's not going to dominate like Judd does, I don't think. But he will win tournaments at a canter at times." Remaining at the pinnacle of the sport, Trump embarked on an impressive streak of 10 consecutive ranking event wins between 2018 and 2020, a run that included clinching the World Snooker Championship in 2019. Hamilton shared his admiration for the 35-year-old's transformation from what he initially considered a "one trick pony" to a formidable player. "When he first came on the scene he was a one trick pony, just potting everything," Hamilton added. "He sat down and thought about it with his brother. How can I improve? What do I do? Zhao captured his maiden world title last month (Image: OLI SCARFF/AFP via Getty Images ) Article continues below "And he's done it off his own back. That's really impressive. Now when I watch him I'm like, 'Christ, I'm glad I'm not playing you anymore.' Even when he's c**p he's amazing!" Zhao's triumph at the Crucible marked a significant comeback after his suspension due to involvement in snooker's most notorious match-fixing scandal. Hamilton acknowledged the role of Zhao's ban and increased maturity in his subsequent success, noting: "He appreciates it now that he had it taken away. But also he's 28, he's not a spring chicken anymore, and it can take that long to really get to grips with this game."
The Star
6 days ago
- Business
- The Star
A pivotal cultural shift
LAVISH banquets featuring gourmet delicacies, rare ingredients and fine wines – once a symbol of status and power among China's political elite – are steadily fading into history. This cultural shift stems from a far-reaching anti-corruption campaign led by the Communist Party of China (CPC) aimed at curbing wasteful public spending and enhancing transparency at all levels of government. Launched in 2012 with the introduction of the Eight-Point Regulation, the campaign has gained momentum over the years. It tackles not only financial misconduct but also the excesses historically associated with political and corporate privilege. The policy marked a turning point in how party officials are expected to conduct themselves, targeting long-standing problems such as extravagance, bureaucracy, and formalism. It imposes strict limits on spending for official perks, including receptions and banquets. 'Thirteen years on, these policies have delivered significant results in stamping out corruption and unhealthy practices within the party,' said Prof Zhao Gangyin, director of the Party Building Department at the Shanghai Party Institute of the CPC. Prof Zhao noted that China has seen a sharp drop in government spending on official vehicles, overseas trips, and receptions. In 2023, only 59.7% (3.87bil yuan) of the allocated 6.496bil yuan (RM3.8bil) budget for these three categories was used. This contrasts sharply with 2011, when 99.3% (9.364bil yuan) of the 9.428bil yuan (RM5.6bil) budget was utilised, and 2012, when 98.6% (7.984bil yuan) of the 8.095bil yuan (RM4.78bil)budget was spent. And Shanghai, a city widely seen as a barometer for nationwide policy enforcement, has implemented strict protocols for official receptions. According to Prof Zhao, the standard meal allowance for visiting officials is now capped at 100 yuan per person per day. 'A working meal can be arranged, if necessary, and the cost must not exceed 150 yuan per guest and 50 yuan (RM30) for each support staff,' he said. The number of accompanying staff allowed at official banquets meanwhile is limited to one-third of the total number of guests. 'If there are only 10 guests or fewer, only three staff members may dine together,' he explained. For foreign guests, the daily meal allowance is set at 600 yuan (RM354) for each head of state or government, and 550 yuan for vice-president, deputy prime minister as well as parliamentary speaker or deputy levels. 'Ministers and vice-ministers are allocated 500 yuan each, while the allowance for others stands at 300 yuan,' he added. Prof Zhao shared this information during a briefing session for a delegation of political party leaders from Asean recently. The Malaysian delegation included DAP vice-chairman Teo Nie Ching, national organising secretary Khoo Poay Tiong, assistant national organising secretary Lee Chin Chen, and Progressive Democratic Party information chief Joshua Ting Fu Ying. As Beijing intensifies its efforts to regulate official conduct, strict regulations are expected to remain a key feature of China's broader governance and reform strategy. Last month, a revised version of the Regulations on Strictly Enforcing Thrift and Fighting Waste in Party and Government Organs was issued, underscoring China's commitment to promoting frugality amid economic challenges. Further elaborating on the Eight-Point Regulation, Prof Zhao said it also emphasises closer ties between party officials and the public, simplicity in communication and governance, and an improved work ethic. Officials are instructed to reduce unnecessary overseas trips, cut large entourages, streamline traffic arrangements, and shorten meetings. Since 2013, the CPC's Central Commission for Discipline Inspection and the National Commission of Supervision have published monthly data on regulation violations to ensure continued oversight. To date, more than one million cases have been investigated, with disciplinary actions and punishments taken against numerous officials. Last year alone saw a record 225,275 cases reported, the highest annual figure to date. This compares with 136,307 cases in 2019; 119,224 in 2020; and 107,547 in 2022. In the first quarter of this year alone, 63,728 cases were reported, leading to criticism or discipline for 84,323 individuals. Another 55,886 were subject to formal party or administrative disciplinary action. Of the reported cases, 31,442 were linked to bureaucracy and formalism, including lack of public engagement, inefficiency, and actions detrimental to public interest or placing burdens on grassroots communities. Another 32,286 involved hedonism and extravagance, such as accepting expansive gifts, attending lavish banquets, unauthorised distribution of subsidies or welfare benefits, and personal use of public funds. Teo, who is also Malaysia's Deputy Communications Minister, said the briefing offered valuable insight for a party that has transitioned from Opposition to government as DAP has done. 'Having spent nearly six decades playing the role of Opposi-tion, adapting to governance is a significant transition,' she said. As she put it, being the second largest party in Parliament brings not only influence but also the challenge of maintaining internal discipline and integrity. DAP, which celebrates its 60th anniversary this year, could explore plans to set up its own party school to help build internal capacity and discipline, she said. (From left) Lee, Teo, Khoo and Ting visiting the site of CPC's first national congress. The visit to the Shanghai Party Institute was held in conjunction with the CPC in Dialogue with Political Parties of Neighbouring Countries forum in Beijing last month. The delegates also visited a historic building in Shanghai where the first CPC National Congress was held in 1921. The meeting then was abruptly cut short when the 13 founding members were exposed and forced to flee for safety. A few days later, the congress resumed on a boat in Zhejiang province, about 100km away, where the members officially declared the founding of the party. In Beijing, the delegates also visited Shougang Park, a multipurpose development hub transformed from a former iron and steel factory – a testament to China's urban renewal efforts. A visit to Shougang Park. Shared future The two-day dialogue, themed 'Building a Community with a Shared Future with Neighbouring Countries: Political Parties in Action', brought together more than 200 leaders from over 40 political parties, along with government officials, think tanks, media, and business representatives. It was hosted by the International Department of the CPC Central Committee. Founded in 1921 with just over 50 members, the CPC has grown into the world's second-largest political party, with 99.185 million members as of 2023. Women make up 30.4% (or 30.19 million) of the membership. The largest age group within the party, making up 31.78% or nearly 31.52 million members, is between 31 and 45 years old. Meanwhile, 12.51% (about 12.41 million members) are aged 30 and below. Responding to a Thai delegate's concern over regional tensions between China and the United States, the CPC Central Committee's International Department minister Liu Jianchao said China did not want its neighbouring countries to take sides. 'China would want to be a country that maintains a very friendly relationship with its neighbours. "We don't want to put them in a situation where they have to choose a side, and we hope the other country will do the same,' he said. Liu also addressed a common saying that 'one turns to the US for security and to China for development'. Disagreeing with this, he said regional security could not be guaranteed by a third party. 'We rely on ourselves for security, rely on our consensus and our philosophy for peace,' he said. While acknowledging that China provides development opportunities, Liu said that the country, too, has benefited from the cooperation. Also invited to the event were MCA vice-president Datuk Tan Teik Cheng and central committee member Datuk Koh Chin Han, as well as Amanah vice-president Datuk Dr Mohd Hatta Ramli. A joint initiative outlining several key points of consensus, reflecting broad support for a vision of strengthened ties across political, economic, and cultural dimensions was adopted. In the document, participants affirmed a shared commitment to regional peace, stability, and development with political parties identified as essential forces in this process. The participants, from both ruling governments and the opposition, agreed that their roles as policy leaders and public opinion shapers give them the ability and responsibility to promote regional unity. The joint initiative also reaffirmed support for multilateralism and economic globalisation while pledging a firm rejection of unilateralism, protectionism, and 'economic bullying'.
San Francisco Chronicle
12-06-2025
- Entertainment
- San Francisco Chronicle
This Bay Area suburb's restaurant boom continues with a new omakase spot
A high-end omakase restaurant with courses of premium fish prepared by a pedigreed chef marks the latest notable opening in a sleepy Bay Area suburb. Ren Omakase recently opened at 403 El Camino Real in Menlo Park, which is in the midst of a flurry of restaurant openings. The eight-seat sushi restaurant, which replaced a small neighborhood ice cream shop near the border of Palo Alto, comes from a team of Bay Area sushi veterans. They include Wen Zhao, previously a chef for 10 years at the once Michelin-starred Omakase in San Francisco; Jiabo Li of Iki Omakase in Palo Alto; and Sunny Noah, who worked at Omakase and the Michelin-starred edomae spot Sushi Yoshizumi in San Mateo, and has since opened Iki Omakase, Nagai Edomae Sushi in Redwood City and Tancho in Castro Valley. Ren's $198 menu features 18 to 20 courses of edomae-style dishes, including sushi made with seafood from Tokyo's Toyosu Market and an array of appetizers like slow-poached abalone with an abalone liver sauce. Zhao has had to get creative with preparing the cooked dishes in a tiny kitchen with only an electric cooktop, Noah said. Zhao is constantly adjusting the shari, or seasoned sushi rice, based on temperature and grain absorption rate with a proprietary blend of red and white vinegar. He cuts each piece of fish precisely to its individual fat content and muscle structure. He cures silver-skinned fish such as kohada, aji, and iwashi using timed intervals for rest and oxidation control. He massages tako, or octopus, by hand for at least two hours for maximum tenderness, and finishes the fish with a light hammering from a daikon radish. Zhao's 'culinary philosophy is grounded in classical Japanese methods, but every aspect — fish curing, rice seasoning, otsumami preparation, and knife work — is approached with scientific rigor and deep respect for tradition,' Noah said. They transformed the former ice cream shop into a minimalist sushi bar built from warm hinoki wood. Ren offers two seatings, at 5:30 p.m. and 8 p.m., Wednesday through Sunday. This will likely be Noah's last omakase restaurant, but he plans to open other kinds of sushi businesses on the Peninsula. He's excited to see new energy in Menlo Park and surrounding Peninsula cities: 'As times change and more and more people and restaurateurs discover this amazing area, they are moving to open more great concepts,' he said. Reach Elena Kadvany: Bluesky: @
Yahoo
10-06-2025
- Business
- Yahoo
Bitcoin Core 30 to Increase OP_RETURN Data Limit After Developer Debate Concludes
The developers of Bitcoin Core, the primary open-source software for connecting the blockchain behind the world's largest cryptocurrency, said October's version 30 release will increase the default limit for OP_RETURN data transactions from the current 80 bytes to nearly 4MB, a limit imposed by Bitcoin's block size. The proposal for the change, which was confirmed in an update on GitHub, had sparked debate within the Bitcoin community. Critics argued that removing the limit could encourage increased embedding of arbitrary data, potentially leading to network spam and a shift from bitcoin's BTC primary function as a financial tool. This decision to go ahead marks another significant moment in the community's debate about blockchain usage, highlighting persistent tensions between network efficiency, practical use cases and ideological principles. The OP_RETURN code allows Bitcoin users to include data in transactions. The functionality is conceptually similar to, though technically distinct from, the way Inscriptions embed images and text directly into the blockchain using Ordinals and witness data. Some argue that adding this transaction data is "arbitrary" and contradicts the original vision for the Bitcoin blockchain as proposed by Satoshi Nakamoto. The 80-byte limit on OP_RETURN encouraged alternative methods of data storage, some of which caused issues like bloating the unspent transaction output (UTXO) set. In a detailed GitHub summary and subsequent X post, Bitcoin Core developer Gloria Zhao outlined the reasoning behind the change. Zhao emphasized the intention to mitigate unintended consequences of the existing limit, noting, 'The primary motivation for this [change] is to correct a mismatch between the harmfulness and standardness of data storage techniques.' Developer Greg Sanders, who authored the merged pull request, said in GitHub discussions that the removal of the limit 'yields at least two tangible benefits: a cleaner UTXO set and more consistent default behavior.' Zhao also addressed broader governance issues on her X page, highlighting Bitcoin Core's commitment to transparency and meritocracy. She stressed the importance of the community's role in maintaining these principles, warning against the risks of social engineering or corporate pressure influencing the software developers' decision-making process. 'If Bitcoin Core's contributors ever abandon these values, e.g., to appease social media or corporate wishes, the community will switch to another node implementation that does it better,' Zhao wrote, urging users to remain vigilant and informed. Developer Luke Dashjr has consistently opposed easing the limits, labeling the move as potentially harmful. He encouraged users to avoid upgrading to the new version or to adopt alternative node implementations, such as Bitcoin Knots. The debate mirrors the controversies of 2023, notably around Ordinals and Inscriptions, when users embedded substantial non-financial data, such as images and text, into Bitcoin transactions, prompting similar concerns about blockchain misuse and network congestion. Despite these concerns, Zhao maintained that attempts to censor transaction types through relay policy are impractical and ineffective against strong economic incentives. Bitcoin Core's approach should remain neutral, reflecting the network's foundational principles of censorship resistance and decentralization, she said. The Core 30 release will retain manual control options, allowing users to enforce stricter limits through existing command-line parameters. However, these options are now marked as deprecated and will trigger warning messages, indicating potential removal in future updates without a set timeline.
