Month: October 2024

Dame Maggie Smith, the celebrated British actress renowned for her iconic roles as Professor McGonagall in the “Harry Potter” series and the Dowager Countess of Grantham in “Downton Abbey,” passed away at the age of 89 on September 27 in London. Her passing was confirmed by her two sons, who shared that she left us peacefully at Chelsea and Westminster Hospital. With a career spanning over 70 years, Smith’s legacy includes more than 60 films and over 70 stage productions, firmly establishing her as one of Britain’s most prolific actors.

In a rare engagement with the media, Smith, known for her strong preference for privacy, often allowed her work to communicate her talents. Despite receiving numerous accolades, including two Oscars and three Emmys, she notably missed many major award ceremonies. This led to humor from late-night host Jimmy Kimmel, who quipped in 2016 about establishing the “Maggie Smith Rule,” suggesting that anyone who skips an award ceremony should be disqualified from winning.

Born on December 28, 1934, in Essex, England, Smith’s journey into the acting world began in Oxford when her family relocated there during her childhood. Making her stage debut at 17 at the Oxford Playhouse, she embodied the character Viola in Shakespeare’s “Twelfth Night.” The 1960s marked a turning point for her, as she became a staple at the Royal National Theatre and transitioned to television and film.

Smith earned her first Oscar nomination in 1965 and clinched her first Academy Award in 1969 for her portrayal of a politically engaged teacher in “The Prime of Miss Jean Brodie.”

Her remarkable talent spanned genres, earning her widespread acclaim. The Hollywood Reporter highlighted her seamless ability to move between comedy and drama, with renowned British director Alan Bennett commenting, “The boundary between laughter and tears is where Maggie always remains composed.”

In 1989, she received the title of Dame from the late Queen Elizabeth II, a testament to her contributions to the arts, with further recognition in 2014.

Fans particularly cherish her later roles, especially as the strict yet caring Professor McGonagall and the formidable Dowager Countess. Known for her sharp wit, Smith embodied McGonagall’s character on and off the set. During the filming of the sixth “Harry Potter” movie in 2008, she fought through chemotherapy for breast cancer while remaining dedicated to her role, downplaying her health struggles to her concerned supporters. Reports confirmed her recovery in 2009.

Smith also battled health issues in 1988, being diagnosed with Graves’ disease, which necessitated radiation therapy and eye surgery.

Her exacting standards made working with her a distinctive experience. Director Richard Eyre remarked, “She can’t tolerate foolishness… You need to be on your game with her, or she won’t let it slide, but it keeps you sharp.”

As McGonagall, Smith’s sharp humor shone through, particularly in the final “Harry Potter” film, where she joyfully declared, “I’ve always wanted to try that spell” after successfully using Hogwarts’ statues in battle.

Beneath her serious facade was a compassionate soul that resonated with audiences, especially in her portrayal of the beloved Dowager Countess. After “Downton Abbey” concluded its six-season run, she reflected, “I had been working for a long time before ‘Downton Abbey,’ and my life is lovely now; nobody knows who I am,” expressing her contentment with stepping back from the limelight.

Smith’s characters frequently blended sharp humor with genuine warmth, as evidenced by the Dowager Countess’s endearing traits. She reprised her role in the 2019 “Downton Abbey” film and its sequel, “Downton Abbey: A New Era,” released in 2022.

As Maggie Smith takes her final bow from life’s stage, she leaves behind a profound legacy that will be honored and remembered by generations of fans. Daniel Radcliffe, who portrayed Harry Potter, expressed his sorrow over her passing, stating, “She was one of the most talented women in history, and she leaves us with an incredible legacy that will live on in our memories.”

Costco has recently introduced a range of new products, from electronics to seasonal decorations, as highlighted by GoBankingRates. Can you tell us about some of the standout new additions and what makes them special?

Absolutely! One of the key highlights is the Novaform SoFresh Plus 10-inch memory foam mattress, available at prices ranging from $259.99 to $549.99. It has received rave reviews for its exceptional comfort and comes in various sizes, including twin and king. The mattress utilizes high-quality, responsive memory foam, offering medium-firm support and features a removable, machine-washable cover for convenience.

Moving on to wearable technology, we have the Samsung Galaxy Watch 7, priced at $319.99. This smartwatch is packed with features, including Energy Score assessment, sleep tracking, heart rate monitoring, and built-in GPS. Users can even chat directly from the watch. It is available in two colors—green and silver—and is designed to be durable, supported by a two-year warranty along with two fast chargers, making it a great companion for outdoor activities like hiking and cycling.

For those looking to add a touch of elegance to their home, the LED Glass Raindrops set, priced at $32.99, could be the perfect option. This three-piece set is hand-blown and has a beautiful crackled texture. The LED bulbs emit a warm, inviting light that’s perfect for evening ambiance. It runs on three AA batteries and includes a timer function to automatically switch on for six hours and off for 18.

Gamers will appreciate the HyperX Pulsefire Surge RGB gaming mouse priced at $49.99. This robust entry-level mouse offers up to 16,000 customizable DPI settings, features RGB lighting, and includes six programmable buttons, making it an excellent choice for gaming enthusiasts.

As the winter season approaches, staying warm is a priority, and the Berkshire Life Heated Blanket, available for $44.99 to $74.99, is an ideal solution. It comes in sizes from twin to king, is made of 100% polyester, and is machine-washable. With eight heat settings and an automatic shut-off feature, it’s available in soothing colors like beige, gray, and blue—perfect for cozying up on the sofa.

Another fantastic option for comfort is the Jennifer Adams Marshmallow Blanket, priced at $69.99. This blanket is incredibly soft, lightweight, and durable, available in twin and king sizes. It is machine-washable and comes in neutral colors like beige, white, and gray, making it suitable for all seasons.

For those getting into the holiday spirit, the Jim Shore Grinch and Max figurine, priced at $59.99, is a delightful decoration. Standing at 20 inches tall, it makes a charming addition to your fireplace or Christmas tree.

Finally, the Wyatt & Ash Washable Area Rug ranges from $49.99 to $199.99 depending on size. Designed for living or dining areas, this machine-washable rug features a non-slip backing and a minimalist design that complements various decor styles. It’s available in five sizes, from 3×5 feet to 9×12 feet, with color options including red and blue.

What are you most excited about with this new product launch?

On October 6, the World Table Tennis (WTT) China Grand Slam tournament wrapped up in Beijing, with rising star Lin Shidong capturing the men’s singles championship. In Sanya, Hainan, his childhood coach, Guan Yan, followed the event closely. In an interview on October 7, she shared her thoughts on Lin’s victory, believing it marks a new beginning for him. She expressed excitement about his upcoming performances in major competitions, including the Olympics, the World Table Tennis Championships, and the ITTF World Cup.

Guan fondly remembered how Lin got started in table tennis back in Sanya. “The first time I saw Lin, he was just a chubby little kid in first grade. He was in poor physical shape, and no one thought he could actually play table tennis,” she recalled. Yet, even without direct coaching, Lin demonstrated his commitment by watching others play for three straight days at the table tennis hall. “The fact that he could sit still and focus was a promising sign.”

At that time, Guan was teaching a backhand flick technique. She noticed Lin mimicking some of the movements from the sidelines and decided to give him a chance to try it out. “After he took a shot, I realized his understanding of the game was far beyond that of many kids who had been playing for years,” she stated, leading her to officially coach him.

“First, we had to focus on getting him in shape,” Guan explained. For the initial six months, she implemented a physical training routine to improve his court movement. As Lin’s talent became more apparent over the next two years, she gradually increased the intensity of the training. In April 2015, when the Hainan provincial table tennis team was formed, Lin was one of the first selections and the youngest player on the squad.

Under rigorous training, Lin quickly rose through the ranks, making headlines in major competitions. By April 2018, he had secured the men’s singles title in the U13 category at the National Table Tennis Championships and began participating in international events. By December 2020, at the age of just 15, Lin became the first player from Hainan to join the national team.

In the WTT China Grand Slam men’s singles final, Lin faced veteran Ma Long. Despite trailing 1-3, he staged a remarkable comeback to win. “Before each match, I send him a message of encouragement. This time, I reminded him to play his own game, no matter what happened,” Guan shared. She noted that Lin displayed impressive poise under pressure, showing a determination many of his peers lack.

The match ignited online discussions about the shift from veteran to younger players in Chinese table tennis. Guan acknowledged Ma Long as an incredibly experienced athlete while emphasizing that Lin still has much to learn, especially since he hasn’t yet faced many major tournaments.

Guan mentioned that whenever Lin returns to Sanya, he makes a point to visit her and share updates about his training. “He tells me he’s dedicated to working hard every day and pursuing his goals. I truly believe in him and wish him all the best as he continues his journey in table tennis, aiming for even greater achievements,” she concluded.

In an emotional press conference, former Barcelona and Spain midfielder Andrés Iniesta announced his retirement, capping off an extraordinary 24-year career filled with accolades. “I hope you’ll allow me to be a bit emotional today,” he shared as he reflected on his remarkable journey. Iniesta, who most recently played for Emirates Club in the UAE, confessed, “I never thought this day would come. I never imagined it. The tears we’ve shed in recent days are tears of emotion and pride, not sadness.”

Known for his exceptional technical ability, Iniesta earned 131 caps for the Spanish national team. He is perhaps best remembered for scoring the winning goal in the 2010 World Cup final. He played a vital role in Spain’s historic victory at the 2008 European Championship, which ended a 44-year wait for a major trophy, and was named the tournament’s player of the year when they defended their title in 2012.

Ms. Hsu shared her excitement about the experiences awaiting visitors, noting that they can not only soak in the breathtaking natural scenery but also encounter a metallic horse statue that captures the essence of “Horsetown USA.” As Halloween approaches, celebrations are springing up across the United States, and one standout attraction is a massive orange rock perched on a hillside in Norco, California. Known as “Pumpkin Rock,” this striking landmark draws thousands of visitors each year, particularly during the Halloween season when residents and tourists flock to snap photos.

Towering at an impressive 15 feet, Pumpkin Rock features a rounded silhouette painted in a bright orange hue, complete with a cheerful jack-o’-lantern face, perfectly encapsulating the Halloween spirit. The 1.7-mile Pumpkin Rock Trail, lined with beautiful wildflowers, offers a moderate hiking experience that is both dog-friendly and accessible to horseback riders, allowing a diverse group of visitors to enjoy the area’s natural beauty. Interestingly, Pumpkin Rock’s backstory dates back to 1994, when it was originally known as “Elephant Butt Rock” because of a gray crack that resembled an elephant’s rear. The identity of the artist behind the pumpkin makeover remains a mystery, but its whimsical appearance has turned it into a must-visit location during Halloween.

Norco’s planning department has looked into ways to preserve and manage the rock, even considering seasonal repainting themed around different holidays. However, these ideas were ultimately put on hold due to environmental concerns. Currently, maintaining the iconic Pumpkin Rock relies on volunteers who diligently reapply paint to keep it vibrant. While some critics contend that the paint disrupts the natural landscape and could pose environmental challenges, supporters argue that it functions as a quirky art installation, attracting families for hikes and horseback riding.

Alongside Pumpkin Rock, the trail also showcases other engaging features, including a lighted “USA” sign and the metallic horse statue, which capture the attention of tourists. Although some areas along the trail suffer from graffiti and litter, the overall vibe is lively and joyful, especially as Halloween approaches, enhancing the local community’s festive spirit.

Reflecting on her experiences, Ms. Hsu, an enthusiastic visitor, revealed that she and her friends stumbled upon Pumpkin Rock through social media. Intrigued, they made a trip of about 30 minutes to check it out. Despite the trail’s seemingly short journey—taking roughly 20 minutes to reach the rock—she cautioned about the steep incline, describing it as “super steep and a bit dangerous,” noting that her heart rate soared to 159 beats per minute during the climb, leaving her feeling “exhausted.” Nevertheless, she felt the effort was worth it, adding an extra touch of fun to their Halloween adventure. The awe-inspiring sight of Pumpkin Rock paired with the stunning views made their outing truly unforgettable.

On August 11, the North American Taiwanese Engineers Association (NATEA) hosted a significant forum on technology diplomacy, bringing together numerous leaders from the technology sector, politics, and the expatriate community in Silicon Valley, alongside esteemed scholars. The event served as the inaugural meeting for the Global Alliance for Taiwan Technology and Diplomacy (GATTD). During the forum, GATTD’s Executive Director, Chen Yan-Guang, provided insights into the organization’s mission and objectives, marking a pivotal moment for Taiwan’s tech landscape in promoting international collaboration.

Attendees included Zhu Yong-Chang, Deputy Director of the Taipei Economic and Cultural Office in San Francisco; Yu Jin-Bang, founding president of NATEA and chairman of GATTD; and Yang Yao-Hong, President of NATEA. Notable figures such as Kharis Templeman from Stanford University’s Hoover Institution, Santa Clara County Council member Otto Lee, and Wang Shao-Hua, former General Manager of the International Division at the Industrial Technology Research Institute, also participated.

Yang Yao-Hong provided a detailed overview of NATEA’s history and development, sharing the association’s transformation initiatives. He highlighted its commitment to encouraging Special Interest Groups and a Leadership Pipeline program for nonprofits, which has revitalized NATEA. These developments include the formation of a new chapter in Arizona, a senior members’ group from California, and the Junior NATEA division aimed at engaging youth in Silicon Valley, fostering a dynamic intergenerational community.

Yang pointed out that members of the GATTD Special Interest Group acknowledged Taiwan’s limitations on the international stage while considering advances in technology. This understanding led them to establish a formal Taiwan Technology and Diplomacy Alliance under the NATEA framework, designed to enhance technological exchanges with the U.S. and other nations, thereby increasing Taiwan’s involvement in global organizations.

Expressing his enthusiasm as GATTD’s first Executive Director, Chen Yan-Guang outlined the organization’s goals, emphasizing Taiwan’s formidable technological prowess, which includes control over 90% of high-end semiconductor production and a position as one of the top ten trading partners with the U.S. Despite significant visibility at the recent Taipei International Computer Show, he acknowledged that Taiwan struggles with formal participation in various international organizations, posing challenges to its diplomatic engagement and representation in sports.

Chen discussed strategies to leverage Taiwan’s technological strengths to forge stronger alliances with the U.S. and other countries, navigating existing diplomatic hurdles. He unveiled the organization’s vision, revealing an emblem depicting “peace doves connecting the world” and the slogan “providing a platform for global technological connections.”

Kharis Templeman, who leads the Taiwan program at the Hoover Institution, addressed the disparity in information control among nations, highlighting the challenges this poses for Taiwan in cognitive warfare. He urged Taiwan to tackle these issues directly and suggested that deeper democratic partnerships between Taiwan and the U.S. could yield viable solutions to shared challenges. He cited Wikipedia as an influential example functioning without governmental oversight.

Wang Shao-Hua later discussed the evolution of the global technology supply chain, emphasizing that, in addition to the well-known TSMC, Taiwan is home to many “hidden champions,” particularly in sectors like quantum computing. He underscored the comprehensive nature of Taiwan’s technological ecosystem, with mature OEM and ODM models enabling its competitive stance on the global stage.

The event also featured contributions from prominent leaders in the technology field, including former IEEE Computer Society President Rajiv Mathur, current President Vishnu Pendyala, Ji Guo-Zhong, former Chairman of the Taiwan Industrial Technology Promotion Association (TITA) and policy advisor, Hu Li-Min, Chairman of the Global Yu Shan Association, as well as former President of the Taiwanese American Industrial Technology Association (TIATA), Li Ying-Shan, and current Vice President Liu Jia-Ning.

During a recent visit to the Kim Jong Un National Defense Comprehensive University on October 7, North Korean leader Kim Jong Un issued a clear warning about potential military aggression from South Korea and the United States. He emphasized that if hostile forces were to launch an attack, North Korea would not hesitate to utilize any means at its disposal, including nuclear weapons.

Kim underscored the importance of maintaining the strategic military balance on the Korean Peninsula, stating, “I absolutely will not allow the balance of power to be undermined.” He made it clear that any disruption to this balance would herald the beginning of war.

In contrast, South Korean President Yoon Suk-yeol, during his address at a military parade on October 1, cautioned that if North Korea attempts to use nuclear weapons, it would result in the end of its regime. He assured that the South Korean-U.S. alliance would respond decisively and overwhelmingly to any such threats.

In response to President Yoon’s remarks, Kim dismissed him as an “abnormal person” and reaffirmed North Korea’s commitment to accelerating its development into a nuclear superpower. He stated, “As the U.S.-South Korea alliance degenerates, our nuclear response posture must be perfected to unprecedented levels.”

In September, North Korea revealed a hidden uranium enrichment facility, demonstrating its ongoing dedication to maintaining and enhancing its nuclear arsenal. Kim described the relationship between North Korea and South Korea as one characterized by “two mutually hostile nations.” He noted that while previous discussions may have included ideas about “liberating the South” or “unifying by force,” such notions are no longer of interest. He clarified that both Koreas are now viewed as independent states.

Furthermore, Kim reiterated that North Korea has no intentions of attacking South Korea. He expressed discomfort at the very thought of conflict, emphasizing that North Korea does not seek direct confrontation with its southern neighbor.

**Interview with a Health Expert: Shedding Light on Helicobacter pylori and Its Treatment**

**Interviewer:** There’s a lot of misinformation floating around regarding health topics, particularly concerning bacteria like Helicobacter pylori. Can you clarify this for us?

**Expert:** Of course. It’s important to seek out accurate information rather than succumbing to myths. Helicobacter pylori, commonly referred to as H. pylori, is a type of bacteria that can lead to stomach infections, and it won’t resolve on its own.

**Interviewer:** What is the recommended approach for treating an H. pylori infection?

**Expert:** The standard treatment for eradicating H. pylori is known as quadruple therapy. This typically includes a combination of two different antibiotics, a proton pump inhibitor, and a bismuth compound. The treatment period usually ranges from 10 to 14 days, and the success rate for eradication is between 85% and 94%.

**Interviewer:** That’s quite effective! Once someone undergoes treatment, how likely are they to be re-infected?

**Expert:** Studies indicate that the likelihood of re-infection after successful treatment is relatively low. Nonetheless, it’s essential to focus on prevention. Maintaining good dietary hygiene is crucial; for example, using personal utensils instead of shared ones can significantly reduce the risk of transmission.

**Interviewer:** I appreciate that clarification! Do you have any additional advice for individuals seeking to stay informed about their health?

**Expert:** Always rely on reputable sources and consult healthcare professionals if you have any doubts. Misinformation can spread rapidly, but being proactive about your health can lead to substantial improvements. Additionally, following trustworthy health platforms can keep you informed about valid health practices and findings.

**Interviewer:** Thank you for sharing your valuable insights! It’s definitely better to know the facts than to rely on rumors.

In a recent announcement, the Russian Ministry of Defense revealed that its forces have successfully regained control over two villages in Kursk Oblast that were previously under Ukrainian occupation. This move comes in the wake of a surprising raid by Ukrainian troops on August 6, which marked one of the rare occasions when Ukraine managed to breach into Russian territory.

When asked about the situation, a spokesperson from the Ministry of Defense stated that Russian troops are “continuing their offensive operations, successfully liberating the settlements of Novaya Sorochina and Pokrovsky.” Notably, Novaya Sorochina is located close to the Ukrainian border, while Pokrovsky lies further within Russian territory.

The statement elaborated that Russian forces are actively “taking measures to defeat enemy groups that have entered Kursk Oblast” and have successfully repelled Ukrainian attacks in the vicinity of the villages near Pokrovsky.

Earlier this year, by late August, Ukraine claimed to have captured approximately 100 settlements in Kursk Oblast, controlling nearly 1,300 square kilometers of territory. Following this, in mid-September, the Russian Ministry of Defense reported the reclamation of 12 villages in the area. However, a Ukrainian military spokesperson later informed AFP that Russia’s counteroffensive to reclaim lost territory had been “halted.”

Furthermore, Ukraine has indicated that its offensive efforts are aimed at establishing a buffer zone in Kursk Oblast to safeguard its border regions from further shelling.

On the same day as the Russian announcement, Ukraine also reported that Russia had launched ballistic missile attacks on Poltava, a city located in central-eastern Ukraine, sourced from Kursk Oblast.

Dr. Albert Chan is at the helm of Kinect Law, a leading intellectual property (IP) firm based in Queens, New York City, that partners with IP attorneys from around the globe. With a robust international network, Kinect Law offers a full suite of legal services aimed at helping clients protect and enforce their intellectual property rights in the U.S., China, and beyond.

Kinect Law efficiently manages patent applications in the U.S. and other jurisdictions through filings with the United States Patent and Trademark Office (USPTO) and under the Patent Cooperation Treaty (PCT) from their New York office. They also provide technology protection, IP acquisition, and management services through their IP development company in Hong Kong, serving a varied clientele worldwide. Their practice areas encompass trademark issues, technology transfers, trade secrets, and copyright disputes.

The firm boasts a talented team of patent attorneys, litigation lawyers, and patent agents/engineers, all committed to delivering tailored, high-quality legal services. Kinect Law has achieved recognition in a range of fields, including life sciences, biotechnology, chemistry, pharmacology, electrical engineering, and software engineering.

As a partner at Kinect Law, Dr. Albert Chan brings extensive knowledge in all facets of intellectual property law, especially in patent law related to the biotechnology sector. His vast expertise encompasses patent applications and litigation, along with IP licensing, technology transfers, and market valuations. Dr. Chan earned his Juris Doctor from Columbia Law School in New York City and holds a Ph.D. in Virology from Baylor College of Medicine in Houston, Texas. He completed his postdoctoral training at Cold Spring Harbor Laboratory as an American Cancer Society Fellow. Dr. Chan has been a registered practitioner with the USPTO since 1993 and is authorized to practice law in New Jersey, New York, Texas, Massachusetts, and before the U.S. Supreme Court.

Another key partner, Attorney Rong Hsieh, focuses on patent and trademark applications, patent disputes, technology transfers, and business transactions relating to intellectual property and cross-border investments. He has provided guidance to clients across diverse industries, including automotive electronics, construction materials, chemical manufacturing, fashion, and software. Hsieh leads the firm’s international trade initiatives and serves both domestic and international clients. Additionally, he is involved in teaching IP-related subjects at the City University of New York School of Law, where he authors textbooks and gives lectures. Hsieh holds a Bachelor of Laws from the University of International Business and Economics in Shanghai, a Master of Laws from Washington University in St. Louis, and a Master’s in Computer Science from Pace University in New York City. He is a registered patent attorney with the USPTO and licensed to practice law in New York, with eligibility to appear in U.S. Federal Courts of Appeals.

Dr. Yi-Lai Chen is another foundational figure at the firm, specializing as an IP engineer with extensive research experience in biomedical engineering. His work focuses on implant technology development, drug research, medical adhesive advancements, and metastatic cancer cell identification. He graduated from the University of Hong Kong with a Bachelor’s in Medical Engineering and went on to earn both a Ph.D. in Mechanical Engineering and a Master’s in Orthopedic and Trauma Science from the same institution. Dr. Chen also holds a Master’s in Law from Renmin University of China and has successfully passed the Chinese Patent Agent Qualification Examination.

Lastly, partner Robert D. Katz has nearly four decades of experience in handling IP law cases across a wide spectrum of areas. As the lead attorney for various patent, trademark, copyright, unfair competition, and trade secret litigation cases, Katz handles commercial transactions both domestically and internationally. His practice involves jury trials, arbitration, and mediation. He possesses substantial experience in securing and lifting temporary restraining orders and advocates in numerous state and federal appellate cases. Katz also manages patent interferences, reissues, multi-party reviews, and trademark opposition and cancellation procedures at the USPTO.

For additional information, visit Kinect Law’s website at www.kinectlaw.com or reach out via email.