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Concise news summaries
"Ne Zha 2" reclaimed the top spot at China's box office for the weekend of April 18–20, earning RMB 28.9 million ($4 million) and pushing its cumulative gross to $2.116 billion. This animated film continues to dominate 2025's box office charts in China. "We Girls," directed by Feng Xiaogang, dropped to second place but remained a strong performer with $3.8 million in its third weekend, telling the story of women bonding through adversity in prison. The total weekend box office reached $20.2 million, slightly lower than the previous week, yet 2025's year-to-date gross stands at $3.51 billion, a 39% increase over last year.
That's why about half of apartment renters in large urban markets usually move when their leases expire. The low turnover is "striking," according to real estate analyst Alex Goldfarb at Piper Sandler. He said some of the largest landlords are seeing turnover at just 30% compared with the industry norm of 50%. As a result, in the multifamily REIT sector, Goldfarb likes Essex Property Trust , with its large West Coast footprint. "The first drop in vacant units in more than two years signals a crucial turning point in the multifamily sector," said Kelli Carhart, leader of multifamily capital markets for CBRE.
ChatGPT, OpenAI's AI model, excels at generating text for tasks like writing and problem-solving but faces challenges related to data privacy, potential plagiarism, and misuse. Recent incidents include legal disputes over defamation and incidents where educational institutions banned its use due to concerns about misinformation and plagiarism.
Ryan Last, a 17-year-old San Jose teen who died from being Sextorted online in February 2022, inspired an international scheme targeting thousands globally. Law enforcement arrested four Ivorian men for their role in this sextortion plot, which included threatening individuals and coercing them to send explicit images. The scheme targeted Ryan specifically, among others, including minors worldwide. His mother highlighted the impact of the scam, emphasizing the dangers of social media manipulations. The arrests also revealed connections to money laundering and previous convictions, with the FBI warning parents about growing sextortion threats.统计数据显示该行为导致大量青少年受害和自杀事件,呼吁家庭及时干预。
Over one million older people in England face waits longer than 12 hours in emergency departments (A&E), often enduring degrading corridor care. The number of those aged 60 and over experiencing such waits rose to 1.15 million in 2024, up from 991,068 the previous year. The risk of a 12-hour wait in emergency departments increased significantly with age, with patients aged 90 and over having a 33% chance of experiencing it. Dr. Adrian Boyle, president of the Royal College of Emergency Medicine (RCEM), criticized the healthcare system for failing vulnerable patients, while the government has pledged £26bn over two years to reduce A&E waiting times, though progress remains slow.
The legal documents surrounding Sean Combs' trial delve into his extensive financial dealings through Bad Boy Entertainment, marked by large-scale wire transfers and bank transactions. His alleged affairs, tied to personal financial settleements, raise questions about transparency in business dealings, while potential fraud indicators like unauthorized withdrawals add layers to his case. The document underscores the interplay between his professional empire and personal life, suggesting mismanagement that could tie into embezzlement charges.
Traditional academic benchmarks only tell you so much, which has led many to lean on vibes-based analysis from LM Arena. LM Arena was created in 2023 as a research project at the University of California, Berkeley. This data is aggregated in the LM Arena leaderboard that shows which models people like the most, which can help track improvements in AI models. Google noted when it released Gemini 2.5 Pro that the model debuted at the top of the LM Arena leaderboard, where it remains to this day. The researchers, hailing from Cohere Labs, Princeton, and MIT, believe AI developers may have placed too much stock in LM Arena.
The Indiana Pacers secured their second straight Eastern Conference finals berth with a thrilling 114-105 victory over the Cleveland Cavaliers. Tyrese Haliburton scored 31 points and Pascal Siakam added 21, while the Pacers' resilient performance despite an early 19-point deficit in the first half saw them rally to win all three games at Rocket Arena. The Cavs were eliminated by a top-seeded opponent for the first time in years, as they lost three home games in a playoff series. The series now heads to Boston, where the Celtics swept the Pacers last year in the East finals.
For someone seeking a balanced mid-range gaming PC that offers solid performance without immediate upgrades, the optimal budget is between **$800 and $1,300**. This range provides a good balance of features and cost-effectiveness, ensuring efficiency for most games while allowing potential upgrades later on. If aiming for higher-end components with improved cooling and reliability, spending up to **$1,500** is recommended for enhanced performance and longevity. **Summary:** - **Budget Range:** $800 - $1,300 for mid-range gaming PC. - **Higher End Option:** Up to $1,500 for premium components and reliability.
A tragic fire in Gateshead led to the arrest of fourteen children on suspected manslaughter charges after a 14-year-old boy’s body was found near an industrial area. Layton Carr, believed to be missing in the region, was confirmed dead following police searches. The incident is still under investigation, and public speculation has been asked to be avoided.
The best tech deals this week offer great savings on a variety of products like vacuum cleaners, robot vacuums, and smart devices. Stand out deals include an 86% off Withings thermometer, a 30% off Dyson hairdryer, $150 off the iRobot essential vacuum, and 20% off Shark’s cordless stick vacuum. Don’t miss the EcoFlow Delta 2 Max Power Station’s 41% discount with its solar charging capabilities. Check out the links for more details!
Kevin Hall, a leading expert on ultra-processed foods at the National Institutes of Health (NIH), has resigned due to allegations of censorship by top officials linked to health secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr. Hall claimed that his research did not align with the preconceived beliefs of agency leadership about the addictive nature of ultra-processed foods. His study, published in Cell Metabolism, suggested that these foods do not cause large dopamine responses similar to addictive drugs, implying a more complex mechanism behind overconsumption. Hall's findings slightly contradicted Kennedy Jr.'s stance that food companies exploit additives to make such foods addictive.
Selma Blair, an actress who revealed her multiple sclerosis (MS) diagnosis in 2018, is finding herself again after six years of dealing with the condition. Now in remission, she's excited to return to acting with upcoming projects and feels more stable after feeling exhausted for much of her life. Additionally, she's working on a young adult novel and remains committed to advocating for people with chronic illnesses, emphasizing self-renewal beyond physical limitations.
The papacy played a prominent role in a high-fashion event this year at Avignon’s historic Palais des Papes, where Brigitte Macron and Pharrell Williams attended a Louis Vuitton catwalk showcasing its latest collection. The event elegantly merged medieval grandeur with futuristic fashion, reflecting the house's innovative spirit. Designer Nicolas Ghesquière emphasized how iconic locations are used to reinforce luxury brands' commitment to status and class.
Pope Leo XIV has been welcomed by Australians and Catholic leaders as a potential continuation of cardinal Newman’s legacy of peace and social justice. His name, deeply symbolic for Catholic social services, mirrors Pope Leo XIII, who championed human dignity and justice. Australians’ warm reception marks a hopeful moment for unity in a divided world, while experts see this as a significant renewal for the Church.
E-commerce platforms Temu and Shein are bracing for a price hike as U.S. tariffs on Chinese goods soar, with import charges jumping 145% due to President Trump's tariffs, making fees far more expensive than product prices in some cases. While Temu has doubled the cost of several items, including a summer dress priced at $44.68 after $26.21 in fees, Shein hasn't hiked its prices as significantly. Both companies had already warned of price increases starting April 25, as their business models were disrupted by the tariffs, which ended a duty-free exemption for imported goods valued under $800.
An Indigenous man died in police custody in the Northern Territory on the same day as protests against the death of another Indigenous man, Kumanjayi White, in Alice Springs last month. The 68-year-old man, whose cause of death remains undetermined, was taken into protective custody after being intoxicated and unable to board a flight out of Darwin. Police are investigating it as a death in custody but have refused to comment on whether the family seeks an independent inquiry. Meanwhile, calls for the AFP to take over the investigation grew amid community concerns about police involvement.
Switching between large language models isn't as straightforward as it seems. Each model interprets prompts differently, leading to potential issues like broken outputs or increased costs when enterprises try to migrate. Key challenges include variations in tokenization, context window sizes, formatting preferences, and response structures—factors that require careful adjustment of prompts and post-processing steps. Despite advancements in tools for model management by major tech companies, successfully migrating models demands meticulous planning, testing, and robust evaluation frameworks to ensure smooth transitions and optimal performance.
Russian forces have been actively strengthening their military presence along the Finnish border using satellite imagery, setting up tents, establishing vehicle storage facilities, renovating fighter jet shelters, and constructing a new helicopter base. These strategic measures, confirmed by NATO officials, reflect a deliberate expansion beyond Ukraine into this frontier region, marking a more calculated buildup compared to previous actions in 2022 along the Ukraine border. Experts predict that as much of this 830-mile stretch lies within the Arctic Circle and potentially under NATO's jurisdiction, it could become a significant flashpoint for conflict.
The Canon PowerShot V1 is an entry-level compact camera designed for vloggers and general photography enthusiasts, offering a blend of high-quality video and photography features within a $900 price point. With a 22.4MP sensor, advanced optical stabilization, and support for 4K/30p video recording, it excels in capturing sharp images and clear audio while maintaining a basic design that may appeal to those prioritizing functionality over style. Positioned near the higher end of its segment, it provides robust features without sacrificing performance in challenging lighting conditions, though it may not satisfy all users seeking more specialized vlogging cameras or a sleeker aesthetic.
Amazon successfully launched its first 27 Project Kuiper satellites on an Atlas V rocket after overcoming initial delays, which were attributed to production bottlenecks. Despite claims of schedule slippage, the company later confirmed success in placing these satellites into low Earth orbit. Amazon now plans over 80 future launches with increased production and launch rates, aiming to provide global internet access to remote areas, competing with SpaceX's Starlink system.
After years of conflict, Turkey and a Kurdish-led insurgency have reportedly reached an impasse, with the Kurdistan Workers’ Party (PKK) deciding to lay down its arms as leader Abdullah Öcalan calls for peace in what could reshape political dynamics across the region. The group, advocating initially for Kurdish independence since 1980, now focuses on expanding Kurdish rights within Turkey despite its international classification as a terrorist group, complicating its potential role in Turkish politics. The decision may have far-reaching implications for Turkey and neighboring areas.
The new DOOM: The Dark Ages trailer is an epic cinematic masterpiece that fans must watch to experience a prequel set before DOOM 2016. It showcases thrilling features like a rideable dragon with turrets, a sleek mech, shields, and a grappling hook, all set against the backdrop of humanity's fight against Hell's invasion. Prepare for a chaotic yet immersiveDOOM adventure that delves into the origins of the Doom Slayer.
Pope Leo XIV holds a unique place as the first American-born leader of the Roman Catholic Church, sparking celebrations in Peru while facing criticism from conservative groups in the United States.
The Stanley Cup playoffs present an exciting contest with significant depth across several teams. The Vegas Golden Knights emerge as strong favorites due to their star power and despite lineup challenges, while the Avalanche showcases a robust roster of young talent and playoff experience. Both teams highlight unique strengths—Vegas with standout players like Eichel, Dorofeyev, and Stone, and Avalanche with consistent depth and historical playoff success—but Vegas's X-factor in the top tier makes them the likely contenders for victory in the 2025 playoffs.
Soundbars have become essential for modern homes, offering more audio clarity than traditional TV speakers. To maximize their performance, consider these tips: place your soundbar directly below the TV at eye level for balanced sound; use a subwoofer strategically in a corner or on the floor to enhance bass; tweak your equalizer and settings to match your room’s acoustics; connect your soundbar via HDMI ARC or eARC for immersive surround sound; and always check for software updates to ensure optimal performance.
The private sector and government have collaborated to push for 1% real wage growth annually over five years in Japan, as inflation-adjusted wages are stagnating. This target was proposed by the government’s advisory panel earlier this month and again during a Monday proposal from the private sector members of the Council on Economic and Fiscal Policy. The council also outlined plans to approve the framework for annual economic and fiscal policy later this year.
SaaS applications have transformed the attack surface by shifting critical business processes and identity management to the cloud, expanding the potential entry points for cybercriminals. Attackers exploit this by using techniques like phishing, credential stuffing, session hijacking, and BEC to breach SaaS environments, bypassing traditional perimeter-based security controls. To counter these threats, organizations need a comprehensive security strategy that addresses device-to-cloud connectivity and application security, moving beyond current perimeter-focused measures to implement Zero Trust principles for enhanced protection.
Apple is reportedly developing a game-focused app designed to attract both gamers and developers, with plans to pre-install it on new smart devices this year, akin to Steam but tailored for Apple devices. Bloomberg suggests a potential Mac version for users downloading games outside the App Store. While Apple isn't traditionally known as a developer company, its presence in the gaming market is significant, especially given the iPhone's high app sales from premium games and its challenges with major developers like Epic Games over payment systems.
Fitness trackers have become essential tools for modern health monitoring, offering features like activity tracking, battery life, and distinct types tailored to individual needs. They provide comparable metrics to smartwatches but with simpler design options and price points. For users seeking stylish designs or extended functionality without GPS, devices like the Garmin Venu 2 excel. Others prefer the reliability of the Fitbit Charge 6 for a balance between features and battery life.
A major regional push to combat polio has been launched by health ministers from five countries targeting 83 million children. The initiative aims to address a significant threat posed by the circulating poliovirus type 2, which has caused paralysis in many cases. Global partners are supporting this effort, while local teams in Adamawa State are working tirelessly to ensure every child is protected through immunization. Parents are urged to participate in the upcoming exercise to safeguard their children's health.
Natasha Lyonne returns for Season 2 of *Poker Face* on Peacock, reprising roles alongside John Cho from *American Pie* movies as MILF Guy. She also reunites with familiar faces like David Krumholtz and Kevin Corrigan from *Slums of Beverly Hills*, Melanie Lynskey from *But I'm a Cheerleader*, and co-stars from *Orange Is the New Black*. The season features a stellar lineup including Giancarlo Esposito, Cynthia Erivo, Katie Holmes, and more.
"Elizabeth Entin testified at Harvey Weinstein's retrial about confiding in her former roommate, Miriam Haley, about an alleged sexual assault from 2006, describing her as 'very unfocused' and 'anxious,' and advising Haley to consider legal action. However, Haley reportedly did not take the suggestion, leaving the testimony unresolved. Entin also discussed earlier efforts to manage Weinstein's reputation at events like 'Project Runway' and a Cipriani event, where he called Haley 'the hottest or sexiest woman.' Legal challenges for accusers remain ongoing."
The White House Correspondents Dinner will take place this weekend without a headlining comedian or Donald Trump in attendance. Instead, it will be broadcast live on major news outlets like CBS News, ABC News, NBC News, and CNN, as well as streamable through platforms like DirecTV (offering a 5-day free trial) and Peacock/Paramount+, which provides a 7-day free trial. The event's organizing committee decided not to feature Amber Ruffin, who was set to host, due to her recent critical remarks about Trump, resulting in this year's dinner being a quieter affair with potentially fewer viewers.
The RAF's airstrike in Yemen marks the UK's first involvement in targeting Houthi rebels under Operation Rough Rider, while US drone attacks since March have demonstrated Trump’s intense war strategy against Israel, raising concerns over civilian casualties. The UK’s military presence in the region is entwined with Israel’s Gaza conflict and ongoing surveillance flights, escalating political tensions as Israel faces criticism for brutal tactics despite reliance on US support. Meanwhile, Labour Party leader Sir Keir Starmer's polling plummets amid growing criticism of Israel and its allies in Yemen.
The Balearic Islands and Canary Islands in Spain are confronting severe housing shortages exacerbated by escalating property prices and mass tourism. Regional governments have actively sought EU measures to restrict foreign property purchases but have faced resistance despite Spanish Prime Minister proposals of taxes or bans for non-EU residents acquiring homes without Spanish ties. Both regions have implemented local solutions yet continue to grapple with housing deficits, leading the Canary Islands to formally request EU assistance this week at the European Union level.
Set during the COVID-19 pandemic in Australia, Preljocaj’s reimagined Swan Lake transforms the classic ballet into a dystopian corporate court where a property developer uses a paper-based plan to turn a kingdom into swans. The production features dynamic and aggressive choreography, evoking strength and bold movements rather than the original elegance. Tchaikovsky’s music is blended with dark electronic tones, creating an eerie atmosphere as the cast captures tension between Siegfried’s emotional struggles and Rothbart’s ambitions, culminating in a powerful dystopian finale that fans will appreciate for its fresh take on the timeless story.
The Los Angeles Clippers faced elimination in Game 7, so coach Tyronn Lue made a bold move by calling all his players for Game 6. With James Harden struggling earlier, the Clippers turned to their stars: Leonard and Batum. Leonard's shooting and Batum's double-double highlighted the small-ball strategy that paid off with critical stops and open looks. The win capped an historic series, setting up Game 7 as the Clippers prepare to face Denver once again.
Creating animation is time-consuming and costly, but Cheehoo aims to revolutionize the industry by offering an AI-powered tool that simplifies the process for creators. Led by executives from Hollywood and tech, including former DreamWorks and Apple executives, Cheehoo provides tools like character creation models, post-processing aids, and workflow integrations with platforms like Maya or Unreal. Funded by Greycroft and others, Cheehoo is already collaborating with IPs and studios to reduce animation costs, enabling independent filmmakers to create without expensive studios. Looking ahead, they plan to expand into consumer products, competing with startups like Cartwheel and Cinamon.
Amazon has announced a $5 billion partnership with Saudi Arabia's AI company, Humain, to establish an AI Zone using AWS infrastructure. The deal includes training programs for local startups and aligns with Saudi Arabia's tech initiatives, including the Public Investment Fund that attracted investments from U.S.-based companies like Nvidia and AMD. President Trump's administration has also supported collaboration between U.S. tech firms and Saudi entities on AI projects. Amazon's entry marks a strategic expansion into the Middle East market, driven by Saudi data storage mandates for AI companies, which are incentivizing infrastructure development in the region.
Google's Ask Photos feature, designed to answer photo-related questions like themes or locations, faced criticism for slow responses and poor quality, prompting a pause in its rollout. The revised version aims to improve speed and usability. Meanwhile, keyword search in Photos now supports exact text matches with quotes or visual searches without them. This marks another pause in Google's strategy as it navigates the AI arms race against competitors.
Radical acceptance paired with external activities like writing and gardening helped Yiyun Li navigate her grief after losing two children, offering her peace amidst immense sorrow. By setting an early morning routine, reading literature, and writing, she found structure to engage with her children's memory without attachment. These strategies not only provided comfort but also highlighted the importance of finding meaning in life beyond loss, suggesting that external activities can help others cope and find resilience during difficult times.
The increased tariffs on solar cells from Southeast Asian countries—Cambodia, Malaysia, Thailand, and Vietnam—have made them "unmarketable" in the U.S., following Trump's trade war with China. These countries account for over three-quarters of imported modules last year, raising concerns about trade practices and affecting domestic companies. While some seek investigation by the Commerce Department, renewable energy project developers fear higher costs. Cambodia faces the highest tariffs at 3521%, with other regions experiencing varying rates, as the U.S. International Trade Commission must finalize the tariffs in June.
CMA Fest 2025, a major event for country music fans in Nashville, brought together some of the industry's biggest stars, rising talents, and thousands of enthusiasts for an unforgettable week-long celebration spanning from Nissan Stadium to intimate stages along the Cumberland River. Notable performances included Blake Shelton, Megan Moroney, and Kelsea Ballerini’s heartfelt duet with Noah Kahan. The festival also featured surprise highlights like Shaboozey’s fiery "Amen" alongside Jelly Roll.
Camille Razat, a beloved character on "Emily In Paris," has decided to leave after four seasons following an incredible journey of growth and memorable moments. Though her storyline will conclude, she remains a part of the show's universe as a regular character. Colleagues, including Laviscount, expressed their heartfelt support, calling her "my sister," while fans eagerly anticipate her new ventures, including launching her production company and plans for upcoming projects ahead of Season 5 starting in May. Fans will miss her, but they look forward to her continued impact through these exciting developments.
TechCrunch’s TC Sessions: AI conference in June offers brands a chance to host high-impact events and gain visibility among 1,200+ AI leaders. From June 1–7, Side Events will take place around the main stage at UC Berkeley, offering opportunities for intimate meetups, thought leadership salons, or demo experiences. Hosts can benefit from exclusive discounts, full promotional support, and listings across TechCrunch’s platforms, but must manage event logistics independently. Apply now before the deadline to secure your spot in this AI-focused gathering.
Nicola Packer, a 45-year-old woman, was acquitted after taking abortion pills during the COVID-19 lockdown believing she was only 10 weeks pregnant. The case highlighted the risks of secret abortions even with remote prescriptions allowed under pandemic laws, sparking calls to reconsider abortion access and remove it from criminal statutes to prevent similar trauma for women.
Oncade revolutionizes the gaming industry by empowering studios through community-driven solutions, eliminating platform fees to give studios more control over revenue. By enabling players to directly engage as affiliates or storefront owners, Oncade fosters a thriving ecosystem where both developers and communities thrive with instant payments and player-driven sales growth. With its tools like affiliate programs and live operations, Oncade aims to transform game development, making it accessible for all studios regardless of size or resources.
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"The recurrent attacks on critical infrastructure place civilian lives at risk, worsen the humanitarian crisis, and undermine basic human rights," warned Nouicer. "The magnitude of these drone attacks represents a major escalation in the conflict, with alarming implications for civilian protection." According to the expert, some Port Sudan and Kassala medical facilities have already been forced to work at reduced capacity. "Civilian infrastructure is protected under international law and must not be a target. It is devastating to see the continued destruction and damage to the infrastructure and social services in Sudan," Nouicer stressed.