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The article discusses how Artificial Intelligence (AI) is revolutionizing the pharmaceutical industry by transforming the way drugs are discovered and tested. The current drug development process is failure-prone, with only one in ten drug candidates succeeding in human trials and taking ten to 15 years to become a useful medicine at a cost of $2.8 billion. AI is changing this landscape by improving the efficiency and effectiveness of drug development.

The article discusses how America's affordability crisis is perceived as a significant issue, but argues that it is largely a mirage. The author points out that despite Donald Trump's campaign promises to 'Make America Affordable Again' by bringing down prices, his policies, such as imposing tariffs, have actually contributed to higher prices. The article highlights the irony that Trump's presidency has not led to the affordability he promised, and that his policies have had the opposite effect.

The article discusses Brightline, a private passenger train in Florida that offers a luxurious travel experience between Miami and Orlando. Despite its comfort and convenience, the train has been involved in several fatal accidents, raising concerns about its safety. The article suggests that the government may be more responsible for the accidents than the train's operator, Brightline.

The article discusses how Artificial Intelligence (AI) is transforming childhood both at home and in schools. It highlights the benefits and potential dangers of AI in education, using the example of Khan Academy's AI-powered study aid that allows students to interact with simulations of historical figures like Pythagoras. The article notes that while AI can provide personalized learning experiences, it also raises concerns about cheating and the potential for children to rely too heavily on technology. The article touches on the broader implications of AI on childhood and education, suggesting that it is a double-edged sword that requires careful consideration.

The article discusses a hypothetical scenario in which Donald Trump, as President of the United States, asserts control over Venezuela and the Americas through a military raid that captures Nicolás Maduro, Venezuela's president. The action has left Caracas, the capital of Venezuela, on high alert, with tanks and armored vehicles guarding the roads and gangs of pro-regime vigilantes roaming the streets. The article questions whether Trump's claim of dominance over the Western hemisphere may backfire.

The article discusses the indictment of Venezuelan dictator Nicolás Maduro on drug-trafficking charges in 2020 and assesses the likelihood of him facing justice. The author notes that while Maduro has credible legal defenses, diplomacy may be his best option to avoid prosecution. The article highlights the symbolic nature of indicting individuals beyond the reach of the law, citing examples such as Russian hackers and Iranian sanctions-busters. The piece also touches on the broader context of American justice and its application to international figures.

The National Rally, a populist-right party in France, has transformed from a pariah to the country's most popular party under the leadership of 30-year-old Jordan Bardella. The party's rise to prominence is evident in its growing popularity among the French public, with many praising Bardella's ideas, charisma, and leadership style. The article explores the reasons behind the party's success and its potential to win the presidency in 2027 or gain parliamentary power sooner.

The Alternative for Germany (AfD) party is gaining popularity in Germany, with some polls showing it as the leading party. The party's youth wing, 'Generation Germany', is also growing, despite its far-right positions. The article discusses the rise of populist-right parties in Europe, including the AfD, and their potential impact on politics.

The article discusses the future of space exploration and argues that it depends on advancements in biology rather than just technological advancements like rockets. The number of people in space is expected to increase significantly in the coming decades, with predictions ranging from a million to settling on Mars. The article highlights the importance of addressing biological needs such as sewage treatment for long-term space missions.

The article discusses a recent decline in overdose deaths in America and explores the possible reasons behind this trend. Researchers suggest that a strategy similar to 'shrinkflation' in consumer products might be contributing to the decrease. Shrinkflation refers to the practice of reducing the quantity of a product while maintaining its price and packaging. The article implies that a similar downsizing or change in the illicit drug supply could be behind the reduction in overdose deaths. The exact mechanisms and factors at play are not detailed in the provided content, but the article hints at new research pointing towards this direction.

Hong Kong authorities have launched a survey to determine the long-term rehousing preferences of flat owners displaced by the devastating Tai Po fire. The survey offers options for new subsidised homes outside the district as early as September 2026 or redeveloping the original Wang Fuk Court into new residential housing by 2035. The government will handle each case based on individual circumstances and preferences while ensuring the efficient use of public resources.

China's shipyards maintained their global lead in 2025 but experienced a decline in market share for the first time in five years due to uncertainty surrounding US port fees on Chinese-linked vessels. The US plan to impose these fees sparked market turbulence, leading to a decrease in new vessel orders for Chinese shipbuilders. Despite this, China remained the world's top shipbuilder, with 63% global market share. South Korea gained ground, increasing its market share to 21%, while Japan saw a significant decline in new vessel orders.

The South China Morning Post highlights seven significant news stories from the past week, covering topics such as China's military advancements, geopolitical tensions, and regional trends. China's new microwave weapon, the Hurricane 3000, can 'sweep and kill' drone swarms at a 3km range. Analysts believe China will adopt a patient and long-term approach in response to the US's actions in Venezuela. Additionally, data shows that nearly 94% of Malaysians who renounced their citizenship chose to become Singaporeans, highlighting Singapore's appeal amidst concerns over brain drain.

A senior Trump administration official, Jacob Helberg, has defended the export of advanced chips to China, stating that it is part of the US plan to build its own 'digital silk road.' Helberg argued that by allowing Chinese developers to build on top of American AI technology, they are diverting time and resources away from developing their own Chinese stack. The US has made partnerships in the Gulf region, equivalent to a digital silk road, to counter China's influence. The Trump administration had previously approved exports of Nvidia's advanced chips to Saudi Arabia and the UAE, and announced AI infrastructure partnerships with both countries.

The Philippine navy is confident in its ability to counter China's growing influence in the South China Sea, thanks to its expanding fleet, joint activities with foreign partners, and the use of unmanned systems. The navy plans to double its fleet size from 9 vessels in 2023 to at least 18 by 2028, with the addition of guided missile corvettes and offshore patrol vessels. Analysts believe that these measures will boost the interoperability of the Philippine military across the sea and air. The Philippines is also strengthening its alliances with other countries, including India, and has ordered 10 warships from South Korean company HD Hyundai Heavy Industries.

The article discusses Hong Kong's progress towards adopting cutting-edge drone technology, specifically electric vertical take-off and landing (eVTOL) aircraft, which are expected to revolutionize urban air mobility. A recent demonstration at Dianshan Lake in Shanghai showcased the 'Sunship', a mobile water-based vertiport designed by AutoFlight, a leading manufacturer of electric aerial vehicles. The eVTOL aircraft developed by AutoFlight can hover like a helicopter and transition to efficient, wing-borne flight like an aeroplane, offering a quieter, greener, and more cost-effective alternative to helicopters. As Hong Kong prepares to enter the era of flying taxis, key players are rolling out groundbreaking innovations at the cutting edge of technology.

China's Tiangong space station is conducting experiments on lithium-ion batteries to study how gravity affects their performance. Led by astronaut Zhang Hongzhang, a professor at the Dalian Institute of Chemical Physics, the project aims to develop safer and more powerful space batteries. Zhang, one of three astronauts on the Shenzhou-21 mission, is working with ground researchers to maximize results. The research has the potential to improve battery technology for space exploration.

The Chinese government has intensified its crackdown on underground churches, with recent arrests and demolitions reported in Chengdu and Wenzhou. The Early Rain Covenant Church in Chengdu reported that nine members were detained, with four still in custody, while authorities in Wenzhou began demolishing the Yayang Church building. Christian groups say the Communist Party is tightening its grip on religious freedom, pressuring Christians to join state-sanctioned churches. The crackdown is part of a broader effort to 'Sinicise' religions, making them conform to Chinese culture and values. Human rights groups and Christian leaders are calling for international pressure on China to respect religious freedom.

The article discusses the controversy surrounding Hajar Abdelkader, a 21-year-old Egyptian wildcard player who lost a professional women's tennis match in 37 minutes, serving 20 double faults. The match was part of an International Tennis Federation (ITF) W35 tournament hosted by Tennis Kenya. The organization has acknowledged that Abdelkader should not have been allowed to play and has reached out to both players to offer support. The Egyptian Tennis Federation has also clarified that Abdelkader is not a registered player with them and was not representing Egypt in the tournament.

The Lebanese army has taken over security in the south of the country, a region dominated by the Iranian-backed Hezbollah movement, amid fears of an Israeli escalation. The move is part of a government-backed plan to clear the area of non-state weapons. The army achieved its objective in an 'effective and tangible way' but still needs to clear unexploded ordnance and tunnels. Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu's office welcomed the development but deemed it insufficient, citing Hezbollah's efforts to rearm. The Lebanese government faces international pressure, particularly from the US, to disarm Hezbollah. Despite a ceasefire deal in November 2024, Israel continues to carry out near-daily attacks on targets linked to Hezbollah, which Lebanon rejects as a violation of the ceasefire.

The Spanish Catholic Church has signed an agreement with the government to compensate victims of sexual abuse by clergy members. The deal follows complaints that Church leaders had failed to adequately address the issue. The government will manage compensation in coordination with the Church, handling cases where other legal avenues are no longer available. Hundreds of thousands of Spaniards are estimated to have suffered abuse at the hands of Church figures. The agreement is seen as a step forward in addressing the issue, with victims' organizations welcoming the move. The Church has faced criticism for its handling of abuse cases, with some accusing it of a lack of transparency and slowness.

US President Donald Trump has withdrawn the US from dozens of international organisations, including the UN Framework Convention on Climate Change, citing that they 'no longer serve American interests' and promote 'ineffective or hostile agendas'. The move has been criticised by European leaders and campaigners, who warn it will weaken global co-operation on climate change. The US has already withdrawn from several multilateral organisations and has been accused of being 'anti-science' and 'authoritarian'. The withdrawal from the UNFCCC will take a year to complete, but the US has already ceased effective participation in the UN's climate change body.

A 550-pound bear lived under a man's Los Angeles home for 37 days before being evicted using paintballs filled with vegetable oil. The bear had been causing damage and disturbances, and the homeowner had been trying to get rid of it for weeks. The California Department of Fish and Wildlife had been attempting to extract the bear, but ultimately, a private organization called 'The Bear League' was able to successfully evict it. The homeowner was relieved to have his home back, but also expressed a desire to coexist with the bear - just not under his house.

A Broadway theatergoer confronted a group of women for being 'loud and obnoxious' during a performance of 'Mamma Mia!' at the Winter Garden Theatre. The man, who was sitting with his teenage nieces and wife, claimed the group was disrupting their experience by singing, clapping, laughing, and talking throughout the first act. The situation escalated when the women allegedly responded with profanity after being asked to keep it down, leading to the man launching into a viral verbal tirade. Security eventually removed both parties from the theater, but the man was allowed to return to his seat for the second act. Social media users were divided on whether the man's reaction was justified or not.

A 37-year-old man was shot and killed by NYPD officers in Manhattan's West Village on Thursday night after allegedly fleeing the scene of a road-rage incident and brandishing an imitation gun at police. The incident occurred when cops on patrol were flagged down by two individuals involved in a motor vehicle accident with the man's BMW. The man exited the vehicle, drew the imitation firearm, and pointed it at officers, who discharged their weapons. Despite being told to drop the weapon, the man continued to hold it, and officers requested EMS to try to save his life. He was pronounced dead at a local hospital at 11:17 p.m.

Patriots wide receiver Kayshon Boutte has opened up about his struggles with gambling addiction, detailing how it nearly cost him his football career. In an essay published in The Players' Tribune, Boutte described how he became addicted to gambling while playing for LSU after suffering an injury, losing $90,000 in the process. He credits becoming a father and the support of the Patriots organization for helping him turn his life around. Boutte was arrested on underage gambling charges in January 2024, but the charges were later dropped. He appeared in 14 games this season, catching 33 passes for 551 yards and six touchdowns.

MLB Commissioner Rob Manfred discussed the possibility of realigning the league's divisions, potentially creating eight divisions with four teams each, and keeping two-team cities separate. He also expressed his desire to expand to 32 teams before his retirement in 2029, citing benefits such as reduced travel burden on players and improved postseason scheduling. Manfred mentioned that cities like Nashville, Raleigh, and Portland are being considered for expansion. He also touched on other potential changes, including shortening the regular season or introducing an in-season tournament.

Scientists have discovered fossils in a cave in Casablanca, Morocco, dating back over 773,000 years, which shed light on the origins of Homo sapiens. The fossils, found in layers corresponding to the time of Earth's magnetic field flip, have a mix of characteristics from Homo erectus, Homo sapiens, and Neanderthals/Denisovans. The discovery bolsters the theory that Homo sapiens originally emerged in Africa and eliminates the 'absence of plausible ancestors' for Homo sapiens in Africa. The findings suggest that the evolutionary divergence of the H. sapiens lineage might have started earlier than conventionally assumed and support the hypothesis of possible exchanges between North Africa and southwestern Europe.

NASA has canceled a planned spacewalk outside the International Space Station due to a medical concern with an unidentified crew member. The agency is exploring options, including an earlier end to the current crew's mission, known as Crew 11. The crew, which includes astronauts Mike Fincke, Zena Cardman, Kimiya Yui, and cosmonaut Oleg Platonov, was scheduled to perform a spacewalk to finish building a truss and carry out maintenance. The medical issue is not being disclosed due to privacy concerns, but NASA says the situation is stable. The crew's return to Earth is still expected around February 20, but NASA is considering alternatives.

Pope Leo XIV has convened an extraordinary consistory of Catholic cardinals at the Vatican to seek their guidance on the Church's priorities for the future. The gathering, attended by 170 cardinals, is seen as a departure from the more centralized approach of his predecessor, Pope Francis. The cardinals have chosen to focus on the missionary nature of the Church and synodality, rather than liturgy or Vatican reforms. Pope Leo XIV has signaled a commitment to involving the full College of Cardinals in governance and has emphasized the importance of the Second Vatican Council in shaping his papacy.

The French owners of a bar in the Swiss ski resort town of Crans-Montana, where a fire on New Year's Eve killed 40 people and injured 116, will be questioned by investigators on Friday. Jacques and Jessica Moretti, who own and manage the Le Constellation bar, face charges of manslaughter by negligence, bodily harm by negligence, and arson by negligence. The couple has pledged to cooperate with the investigation, which is looking into whether fire safety standards were respected in the bar. Questions have been raised about the couple's background and numerous real estate holdings, as well as the lack of fire safety inspections at the bar since 2019.

Asian markets were mixed on Friday as investors reacted to China's December inflation data and geopolitical tensions. Defense stocks rallied, with shares of Hanwha Aerospace surging over 11%. China's CSI 300 inched 0.45% higher after consumer prices rose 0.8% from a year earlier. Japan's Nikkei 225 rose 1.61%, while South Korea's Kospi added 0.75%. Australia's S&P/ASX 200 was slightly below the flatline. US equity futures were little changed ahead of a key December jobs report and a potential US Supreme Court ruling on tariffs. The Dow Jones Industrial Average rose, while the Nasdaq Composite came under pressure as investors moved away from technology stocks.

Rio Tinto and Glencore have resumed talks about a possible $260 billion takeover deal, with Glencore's London-listed shares rising 8% on the news. The deal would create the world's largest mining company. Talks between the two firms previously collapsed in late 2024 over issues such as valuation and the future of Glencore's coal mines. The renewed discussions are driven by rising demand for copper, with prices hitting an all-time high. Rio Tinto has until February 5 to announce a firm intention to make an offer or walk away. The potential merger is part of a trend of increased M&A activity in the mining sector, following a $66 billion deal between Anglo American and Teck Resources last September.

The stock market is near flat ahead of a key jobs report and a potential U.S. Supreme Court ruling on tariffs. Stock futures tied to the Dow Jones Industrial Average added 7 points, while S&P 500 futures hovered near the flatline, and Nasdaq 100 futures were marginally lower. Investors are awaiting the December jobs report, expected to show modest improvement, and a potential Supreme Court ruling on President Donald Trump's tariffs. The tech-heavy Nasdaq Composite closed lower by 0.4% on Thursday, while the Dow added 270 points. President Trump also announced plans to instruct his 'representatives' to buy $200 billion in mortgage bonds, claiming it will drive rates and monthly payments down.

The article discusses how climate change is affecting Bangladesh, particularly in the low-lying coastal regions, causing recurring disasters that cripple livelihoods and displace people. Many young climate migrants, like 24-year-old Md Emran Hosain, are forced to leave their homes and families to find work in other countries, such as Singapore. The article highlights the devastating impact of climate change on Bangladesh, with storms and floods becoming more frequent and intense, and the country's vulnerability to rising sea levels. It also touches on the struggles of families who are left behind and the difficulties they face in making a living.

Storm Goretti has caused widespread disruptions across northern Europe, leaving hundreds of thousands without power and prompting severe weather warnings. The storm brought fierce winds, heavy snow, and plunging temperatures, resulting in transportation chaos, school closures, and at least eight deaths across the continent. France and Britain were among the hardest-hit countries, with significant damage reported in various regions.

The article discusses how Trump's trade war and tariffs on Chinese imports have affected the toy industry in the United States, particularly small businesses. Jennifer Bergman, owner of West Side Kids toy store in Manhattan, struggled to keep her store open due to increased costs from tariffs, eventually closing it in July 2025. The tariffs, which reached as high as 145% on Chinese goods, had a devastating impact on small toy retailers, while big-box retailers like Walmart and Target were able to absorb the costs. The article highlights the growing divide between big-box chains and independent retailers, with the latter struggling to survive.

Christians in north-central Nigeria are being targeted by mostly Muslim Fulani militants in a systematic campaign of kidnappings, with the aim of bankrupting and destroying Christian communities. The kidnappings are often accompanied by ransom demands, which can lead to financial ruin for the families and communities affected. Experts say that Christians are disproportionately targeted, with 4,407 Christians abducted in the region between 2020 and 2025. The Nigerian government has not responded to Fox News Digital's requests for comment.

The UK has decided to keep billions of dollars worth of Venezuelan gold frozen in the Bank of England's vaults despite the arrest of Nicolás Maduro, the Venezuelan leader. The gold, worth over $3 billion, has been frozen since 2020 amid competing claims over who has legal authority to access it. Foreign Secretary Yvette Cooper stated that the UK's decision is guided by the need to maintain stability and pursue a transition to democracy in Venezuela. The gold has been at the center of a legal battle between Maduro's administration and the opposition-led government recognized by the UK.

The article explores the current state of Naypyidaw, Myanmar's capital city, during the country's recent election season. The city, built in the early 2000s, is characterized by its vast scale, defensive layout, and luxurious villas for the military elite. Despite being the seat of power, the city is largely empty, with wide boulevards and few cars. The article highlights the stark contrast between the lives of the military generals and the rest of the country, which is suffering from a civil war, electricity and food shortages, and airstrikes. The election, seen as a sham by Western nations, was held in a highly controlled environment, with the military zone being particularly restricted. The article also touches on the city's history, including the 2021 military coup and the subsequent crackdown on protests.

U.S. Border Patrol agents shot two people, a man and a woman, during a traffic stop in Portland, Oregon, on Thursday. The agents were conducting a 'targeted vehicle stop' and claimed the driver tried to run them over before an agent fired a shot. The incident occurred near Adventist Health Portland in the Hazelwood neighborhood, about eight miles from the city center. Local officials, including Portland's police chief, Bob Day, and Gov. Tina Kotek, criticized the presence of federal officials in the city and demanded a full investigation. The shooting sparked protests and outrage, with hundreds gathering at an Immigration and Customs Enforcement building in Portland to chant slogans and demand justice. Local leaders urged calm, while also condemning the Trump administration's immigration crackdown.

The article reports on the 1,000 days of war in Sudan, highlighting the devastating impact on the population, with 70% in need of assistance. The conflict between the paramilitary Rapid Support Forces (RSF) and the Sudanese Armed Forces (SAF) continues, with both sides bombarding key cities for territorial control. The takeover of North Darfur's capital Al Fashir by the RSF has been particularly brutal, with eyewitnesses describing a barren, abandoned city haunted by massacres. The article also reveals the proliferation of foreign arms in Sudan, with evidence of weapons being supplied by countries such as the UAE, China, and the US. Civilians, including doctors, journalists, and politicians, have been held for ransom, assaulted, and detained. The war has resulted in millions being deprived, displaced, and longing for a political solution.

The US Senate has agreed to display a plaque honoring the police who defended the Capitol during the January 6, 2021, attack. The plaque, approved by Congress over three years ago, was nowhere to be found at the Capitol. Senators Thom Tillis, Jeff Merkley, and Alex Padilla worked together to ensure the plaque's display, despite House Speaker Mike Johnson's objections that it does not comply with the law. The Senate's action comes as the White House has released a report shifting blame for the deadly riot on Democrats and the police.

The Gambia's supreme court is hearing a case to overturn the country's ban on female genital mutilation (FGM), a practice that affects almost 75% of women in the country. The case is brought by Muslim leaders and an MP who claim the ban violates their cultural and religious freedoms. Activists see this as part of a global backlash against women's rights, with similar movements seen in countries like Sierra Leone, Afghanistan, and the US. FGM is considered a grave human rights violation and has serious health consequences, including infertility. The current law in the Gambia criminalizes FGM, but the practice remains widespread.