Latest news with #ZhejiangUniversity
India.com
a day ago
- Politics
- India.com
She studied at Harvard under false name with heavy protection by PLA; meet Xi Jinping's daughter Xi Mingze whose life is full of mysteries
New Delhi: Chinese President Xi Jinping and his second wife, famous folk singer Peng Liyuan's only daughter, Xi Mingze is a personality about whom very little information is publicly available. Her privacy and mysterious lifestyle have recently attracted international media attention, especially when stricter visa policies for Chinese students in the USA and controversial statements by right-wing activist Laura Loomer brought her name into the headlines. About Xi Mingze Xi Mingze was born on June 25, 1992, at the Maternal and Child Health Care Hospital in Fuzhou. She is the only child of Xi Jinping and Peng Liyuan. Her early education took place at Hangzhou Foreign Language School, where she studied the French language from 2006 to 2008. After that, she studied at Zhejiang University for a year. Mysterious Harvard student In 2010, Xi Mingze enrolled at the prestigious Harvard University in the United States, where he studied psychology under a pseudonym. In 2014, he obtained a Bachelor of Arts degree. Very little information is available about his time at Harvard, as she led a highly secretive and simple life. Only a few close friends and professors were aware of her true identity. This secrecy is considered to be part of the Chinese Communist Party (CCP)'s strategy to protect her from media and international scrutiny. After completing her graduation in 2014, she is believed to have returned to Beijing. However, according to some unverified reports, she returned to the United States for postgraduate studies at Harvard in 2019. There is no official confirmation about her current status and location, but some sources claim that she is living in Massachusetts, where she is reportedly provided security by personnel from the People's Liberation Army (PLA). First public appearance Few people have seen her. Xi Mingze has participated in social work on only a few occasions in her life. In 2008, after the Sichuan earthquake, she volunteered for relief work in Hanwang, Mianzu for a week. In 2015, Xi Mingze made her first public appearance with her parents in Liangjiahhe village in Shanxi Province where Xi Jinping began his political career as a Communist Party worker in the 1970s. In 2018, she attended the 8th Annual First Ladies Luncheon of 'Fashion 4 Development' in New York with her mother. These are some of the occasions when Xi Mingze has appeared in public. Xi Mingze's life is full of mysteries The Chinese government has always tried to keep Xi Mingze's life confidential. Her photographs and information about her personal life is almost absent from public platforms. In 2019, a Chinese technician, Niu Tengyu, was reportedly sentenced to 14 years in prison for leaking Xi Mingze's ID card information on a website. However, human rights activists claim that Niu was wrongfully targeted and made a scapegoat. In 2022, an American congresswoman, Vicky Hartzler, claimed that Xi Mingze is living in the United States. She made this statement while introducing the 'Protecting Higher Education from the Chinese Communist Party Act,' which aimed to prevent members of the Chinese Communist Party and their family members from receiving American student or research visas. Hartzler's claim fueled speculation about Xi Mingze's presence in America, but there has been no official confirmation. Visa restrictions and Laura Loomer's statement Recently, the USA announced a policy to revoke visas for Chinese students, particularly those linked to the Chinese Communist Party or studying in sensitive areas. Secretary of State Marco Rubio announced this policy on May 29, under which visa criteria for applicants from China and Hong Kong will be tightened. This policy has brought Xi Mingze back into the spotlight. Meanwhile, right-wing activist Laura Loomer created a stir by making a controversial statement. She claimed that the expulsion of Xi Jinping's daughter, Xi Mingze, should be the starting point. China has strongly condemned this visa policy. Foreign Ministry spokeswoman Mao Ning termed it 'politically motivated' and 'the weaponization of ideology under the pretext of national security.' Overall, there is no clear information about Shi Mingzhe's current status. Some sources claim that she is living in Massachusetts and possibly pursuing postgraduate studies at Harvard. However, neither the United States nor China has confirmed this. Due to the Chinese government's strict policy regarding her privacy and security, no information about her personal life, marital status, or career is public.
Associated Press
2 days ago
- Health
- Associated Press
Engineered ion channel offers precise, non-invasive control of brain activity
FAYETTEVILLE, GA, UNITED STATES, May 30, 2025 / / -- In a breakthrough advancement for neuroscience, researchers have developed RADICAL, a cutting-edge chemogenetic tool that allows for the precise manipulation of neuronal activity using a synthetic chemical, cyclohexanol ( CHXOL ). Unlike traditional methods that rely on invasive optics or slow-acting G-protein coupled receptors, RADICAL utilizes a modified TRPM8 ion channel to enable rapid and targeted control of calcium influx in neurons. This innovative tool has the potential to advance brain function research and open up new therapeutic possibilities for neurological disorders. Current technologies for controlling neuronal activity—such as optogenetics and chemogenetics—have their limitations. Optogenetics requires invasive light delivery, while chemogenetic systems like DREADDs rely on slow and indirect cellular signaling pathways. Additionally, engineered ligand-gated ion channels, such as those based on nicotinic receptors, can result in unintended interactions with native proteins. These challenges have highlighted the need for a more efficient, non-invasive, and precise method of modulating neuronal excitability. In response to this gap, researchers sought to develop RADICAL, a novel chemogenetic tool that addresses these limitations. In a letter (DOI: 10.1093/procel/pwae048 ) published on September 3, 2024, in Protein & Cell, a team from Zhejiang University unveiled RADICAL, an engineered ion channel activated by cyclohexanol (CHXOL). By introducing specific mutations to the TRPM8 ion channel, they created a system that responds with exceptional sensitivity and specificity to CHXOL. This innovation allows for precise neuronal control without interfering with the brain's native functions, marking a significant step forward in chemogenetics. The key modification in RADICAL was the engineering of the TRPM8 ion channel, which is naturally expressed at low levels in the brain, minimizing potential disruptions to endogenous systems. The team introduced two critical mutations (I846F and I985K) to the TRPM8 ion channel. The I846F mutation restored CHXOL binding, while I985K enhanced voltage sensitivity, enabling robust activation even at hyperpolarizing potentials (-80 mV). Patch-clamp recordings and calcium imaging confirmed the double mutant, TRPM8-I846F-I985K's EC50 of 1.17 mmol/L for CHXOL at depolarizing potentials (+80 mV). In vivo, RADICAL demonstrated its potential: CHXOL administration enhanced fear extinction memory in mice by activating neurons in the infralimbic cortex (IL), and also increased locomotor activity when expressed in astrocytes of the ventral tegmental area (VTA). Importantly, the tool's calcium permeability and minimal cell death risk, as shown in HEK293T cells, suggest its suitability for studying calcium-dependent processes such as learning and memory. Dr. Fan Yang, one of the co-corresponding authors of the study, said: RADICAL represents a major breakthrough in chemogenetics. Its ability to modulate neuronal activity with high precision and minimal off-target effects makes it a versatile tool for both basic neuroscience research and the development of therapeutic interventions. With its non-invasive approach and high specificity, RADICAL has substantial potential in both research and clinical settings. It could enhance our understanding of neurological conditions such as memory disorders, addiction, and mood disorders by providing a precise way to manipulate neuronal circuits. Furthermore, future efforts to miniaturize the tool for adeno-associated virus (AAV) delivery could broaden its applicability in gene therapy. RADICAL's unique combination of speed, specificity, and safety positions it as a powerful platform for next-generation treatments of brain diseases. References DOI 10.1093/procel/pwae048 Original Source URL Funding Information This work was supported by funding from the National Natural Science Foundation of China (32122040 and 31971040 to F.Y.; 32071017 and 31922031 to Y.C.); Zhejiang Provincial Natural Science Foundation of China (LR20C050002 to F.Y.); China Postdoctoral Program for Innovative Talents (BX20230323 to H.Z.); China Postdoctoral Science Foundation (2024M752858 to H.Z.); The Fundamental Research Funds for the Central Universities (226-2022-00227 to F.Y.; 226-2022-00149 to Y.C.); Shenzhen-Hong Kong Institute of Brain Science-Shenzhen Fundamental Research Institutions (NYKFKT2019001 to Y.C.); The Fundamental Research Funds for the Central Universities (226-2022-00227 to F.Y.). Lucy Wang BioDesign Research email us here Legal Disclaimer: EIN Presswire provides this news content 'as is' without warranty of any kind. We do not accept any responsibility or liability for the accuracy, content, images, videos, licenses, completeness, legality, or reliability of the information contained in this article. If you have any complaints or copyright issues related to this article, kindly contact the author above.
Miami Herald
4 days ago
- Science
- Miami Herald
New Chinese Military Technology Could Defeat Trump's ‘Golden Dome'
Chinese scientists have developed a new material that could lead to stealthier missiles and combat aircraft. The technology could potentially compromise the effectiveness of U.S. missile defense systems, including President Donald Trump's much-hyped 'Golden Dome.' Newsweek reached out to the Pentagon and the Chinese Foreign Ministry via email for comment. The United States is concerned about the growing intercontinental missile (ICBM) stockpiles of nuclear-armed China and Russia, including faster-than-sound hypersonic missiles. These arsenals are expected to become even more capable in the coming years. Trump has ordered work to begin on the 'Golden Dome,' a satellite-based missile shield. Beijing has said it's 'gravely concerned' about the project, which draws inspiration from the Strategic Defense Initiative, or 'Star Wars,' proposed by former U.S. President Ronald Reagan in the 1980s during the Cold War. Aircraft and missiles emit strong thermal radiation, created by superheated components such as exhaust nozzles, which raises the risk of detection. These temperatures can also degrade and even destroy the structure of standard materials. A Chinese research team led by Professor Li Qiang of Zhejiang University detailed a possible solution to this problem in a study published in March. Their new material is designed to evade both microwave and infrared detection technologies widely used in modern military surveillance, even when exposed to extremely high temperatures, as reported by the South China Morning Post. To test its stealth potential, the team compared the material to a standard blackbody, or a surface that absorbs various types of radiation. Even when heated to 700 degrees Celsius (1,292 degrees Fahrenheit), the material emitted a far lower radiation temperature-422 degrees Celsius-than the blackbody's 690 degrees. The breakthrough lies in the material's layered structure, which includes a specialized 'metasurface'-a precisely engineered layer patterned to control how radar and infrared waves interact with it. The top layer shields against moisture, while the bottom ensures it stays fixed to the surface. Laser etching throughout the structure allows radar signals to pass through without compromising its heat-hiding abilities, according to SCMP. Li Qiang, professor at Zhejiang University's College of Optical Science and Engineering, wrote: 'Our device achieves a maximum operating temperature and heat dissipation capabilities that surpass the current state of the art for simultaneous high-temperature IR and microwave stealth.' Chinese Foreign Ministry spokesperson Mao Ning, at a press conference on May 21: 'The [Golden Dome] project will heighten the risk of turning the space into a war zone and creating a space arms race, and shake the international security and arms control system.' The U.S. Defense Intelligence Agency said in a threat assessment released earlier this month: 'Missile threats to the U.S. homeland will expand in scale and sophistication in the coming decade. 'China and Russia are developing an array of novel delivery systems to exploit gaps in current U.S. ballistic missile defenses, but traditional ballistic missiles-which are guided during powered flight and unguided during free flight-will remain the primary threat to the homeland.' It remains to be seen whether and how soon the new material will be integrated into Chinese weapons platforms. Trump has said the Golden Dome will be 'fully operational' by the end of his second term in 2029. Yet defense analysts have expressed doubts that the system can be completed within that timeline or under its projected $175 billion budget. Related Articles Chinese Aircraft Carrier Challenges US's Pacific War StrategyTrump's Greenland Bid Poses Global Dangers, Says the Woman Facing Him DownChina Responds to Trump Freeze on Student Visa InterviewsChina Reveals Laser Tech to Read Text From a Mile Away 2025 NEWSWEEK DIGITAL LLC.
Newsweek
4 days ago
- Politics
- Newsweek
New Chinese Military Technology Could Defeat Trump's 'Golden Dome'
Based on facts, either observed and verified firsthand by the reporter, or reported and verified from knowledgeable sources. Newsweek AI is in beta. Translations may contain inaccuracies—please refer to the original content. Chinese scientists have developed a new material that could lead to stealthier missiles and combat aircraft. The technology could potentially compromise the effectiveness of U.S. missile defense systems, including President Donald Trump's much-hyped "Golden Dome." Newsweek reached out to the Pentagon and the Chinese Foreign Ministry via email for comment. Why It Matters The United States is concerned about the growing intercontinental missile (ICBM) stockpiles of nuclear-armed China and Russia, including faster-than-sound hypersonic missiles. These arsenals are expected to become even more capable in the coming years. Trump has ordered work to begin on the "Golden Dome," a satellite-based missile shield. Beijing has said it's "gravely concerned" about the project, which draws inspiration from the Strategic Defense Initiative, or "Star Wars," proposed by former U.S. President Ronald Reagan in the 1980s during the Cold War. President Donald Trump speaks about his "Golden Dome" initiative in the Oval Office of the White House on May 20, 2025. President Donald Trump speaks about his "Golden Dome" initiative in the Oval Office of the White House on May 20, 2025. Alex Brandon/Associated Press What To Know Aircraft and missiles emit strong thermal radiation, created by superheated components such as exhaust nozzles, which raises the risk of detection. These temperatures can also degrade and even destroy the structure of standard materials. A Chinese research team led by Professor Li Qiang of Zhejiang University detailed a possible solution to this problem in a study published in March. Their new material is designed to evade both microwave and infrared detection technologies widely used in modern military surveillance, even when exposed to extremely high temperatures, as reported by the South China Morning Post. To test its stealth potential, the team compared the material to a standard blackbody, or a surface that absorbs various types of radiation. Even when heated to 700 degrees Celsius (1,292 degrees Fahrenheit), the material emitted a far lower radiation temperature—422 degrees Celsius—than the blackbody's 690 degrees. The breakthrough lies in the material's layered structure, which includes a specialized "metasurface"—a precisely engineered layer patterned to control how radar and infrared waves interact with it. The top layer shields against moisture, while the bottom ensures it stays fixed to the surface. Laser etching throughout the structure allows radar signals to pass through without compromising its heat-hiding abilities, according to SCMP. What People Are Saying Li Qiang, professor at Zhejiang University's College of Optical Science and Engineering, wrote: "Our device achieves a maximum operating temperature and heat dissipation capabilities that surpass the current state of the art for simultaneous high-temperature IR and microwave stealth." Chinese Foreign Ministry spokesperson Mao Ning, at a press conference on May 21: "The [Golden Dome] project will heighten the risk of turning the space into a war zone and creating a space arms race, and shake the international security and arms control system." The U.S. Defense Intelligence Agency said in a threat assessment released earlier this month: "Missile threats to the U.S. homeland will expand in scale and sophistication in the coming decade. "China and Russia are developing an array of novel delivery systems to exploit gaps in current U.S. ballistic missile defenses, but traditional ballistic missiles—which are guided during powered flight and unguided during free flight—will remain the primary threat to the homeland." What Happens Next It remains to be seen whether and how soon the new material will be integrated into Chinese weapons platforms. Trump has said the Golden Dome will be "fully operational" by the end of his second term in 2029. Yet defense analysts have expressed doubts that the system can be completed within that timeline or under its projected $175 billion budget.
Yahoo
6 days ago
- Science
- Yahoo
China claims its new stealth tech could evade US' proposed Golden Dome missile defense
Scientists in China have debuted a new material that could evade the proposed US missile defense system announced by President Donald Trump, dubbed the Golden Dome. Designed to evade both infrared and microwave detection, the material could be well-suited for use on high-speed aircraft and missiles. Developed by a team led by Professor Li Qiang at Zhejiang University in Hangzhou, China, the high-performance stealth material is capable of operating across multiple detection ranges—including short-wave, mid-wave, and long-wave infrared, as well as microwaves—even at temperatures reaching 1,292 degrees Fahrenheit or 700 degree Celsius. With detection technologies becoming increasingly advanced, stealth materials have adapted to provide multispectral protection, masking objects across wavelengths from visible light to microwaves. However, many key military systems function in high-temperature environments, testing the limits of these coatings. High temperatures on military platforms often arise from external forces like aerodynamic heating or internal sources such as engine exhaust producing intense infrared radiation. Traditional stealth materials can struggle under these conditions as elevated heat may compromise their effectiveness or even lead to structural damage. This has created an urgent demand for materials that combine multispectral stealth with robust thermal resistance. This is where the new stealth material comes in offering a viable recourse. To test the material's stealth ability, the team compared it to a blackbody, which absorbs electromagnetic radiation. When heated to 1,292°F, the material's radiation temperature was about 790°F to 510°F lower than the blackbody's, the South China Morning Post writes. The material showed a significant reduction in radiation intensity, with levels 63.6% lower than a blackbody in the mid-wave infrared (MWIR) band and 37.2% lower in the short-wave infrared (SWIR) band. Beyond its ability to avoid detection, the material also does a great job releasing heat. When heated to 700 degrees Celsius, it gave off heat much more effectively than typical metals. The substance's breakthrough design comes from a composite structure that combines multilayer films with a microwave metasurface. The top layer acts as a moisture barrier, while the bottom layer ensures strong adhesion to the surface beneath. Additionally, the multilayer film is carefully laser-etched to let microwaves pass through without affecting its infrared stealth capabilities. According to the research, the device reaches a maximum operating temperature and heat dissipation performance that exceeds current leading technologies for combined high-temperature infrared and microwave stealth. Just a few days ago, US President Donald Trump announced plans to develop the 'Golden Dome' missile defense system—the American counterpart to Israel's 'Iron Dome'—aiming to build it within the next few years. The system is intended to counter ballistic missiles, hypersonic weapons, and cruise missiles, and will reportedly include space-based tracking sensors. If infrared tracking proves to be the primary method for the Golden Dome system to detect and intercept hypersonic weapons, materials that offer combined infrared and microwave stealth—like the one developed by Li's team—could significantly reduce the chance of detection.
