A person in New Hampshire has died from eastern equine encephalitis virus (EEEV). The article provides essential information about the virus, its impact, and the current situation in the U.S. and Canada, highlighting public health concerns and safety measures.

The Shuangxingtang bathhouse in Beijing, nearly a century old, faces imminent closure due to urban development pressures. The bathhouse, a relic of traditional Chinese culture, has survived numerous historical upheavals but now struggles against modern economic realities and changing social norms. The article vividly describes the bathhouse's unique atmosphere, its colorful patrons, and the cultural significance of such establishments in China's urban landscape. Despite its historical value and cultural heritage, the bathhouse's future remains bleak, symbolizing the broader decline of traditional communal spaces in the face of modernization.

Spring Legend, a mock-Alpine town near Beijing, faces a lack of permanent residents despite its picturesque European village design. The town, developed by Spring Legend Properties, is one of several themed towns in China, including Thames Town and Jackson Hole, which mimic foreign architectural styles. These developments are a response to the desire for serene living environments away from urban pollution and congestion. However, the trend of owning multiple homes and the preference for leaving properties vacant to retain value has led to low occupancy rates. The article discusses the broader context of China's real estate market, where property ownership is a status symbol and investment strategy, despite the high costs and risks associated with 'ghost towns.' The piece also touches on the cultural aspects of these developments, such as the disregard for feng shui and the eventual shift back to traditional Chinese architectural themes as national confidence grows.

China's real estate market, once a cornerstone of its economic growth, is now under severe strain, threatening the middle class and the Chinese Communist Party's credibility. The government is reversing previous attempts to control property prices, hoping to reinflate the market. Despite widespread corruption and risky investments, the belief in a 'guaranteed bubble' persists. Recent policy shifts, including easing credit restrictions and abandoning zero-COVID measures, indicate a significant change in strategy. However, the market's instability has led to panic among prospective homeowners and concerns about broader economic impacts.

The article critiques the Conservative Party's approach to China, highlighting their eagerness to engage with Chinese investments despite potential national security risks and human rights concerns. It discusses various instances of UK-China relations, including the controversial involvement of Huawei in the UK's 5G network, and the historical context of Britain's dealings with China. The article also touches on the internal dissent within the Conservative Party and the broader geopolitical implications of the UK's stance towards China.

The privacy policy of thienhabet.one outlines the use of device tracking and cookies to enhance user experience and provide relevant content and advertisements. It details the collection of information such as IP addresses, browser types, and device information, and the use of cookies to store user preferences. Users can disable cookies in their browser settings, though this may affect their experience on the website. The policy emphasizes the commitment to using collected information in compliance with legal regulations and protecting user data with appropriate security measures. Personal information is used solely to provide services and improve user experience, and is not sold or transferred to third parties, except in certain cases to partners or service providers.

China's government is intensifying its anti-drug rhetoric and enforcement, particularly targeting foreigners and leveraging cannabis legalization abroad to stoke domestic fears. The campaign, marked by discriminatory practices and harsh penalties, reflects a broader narrative of foreign threats and internal control. Despite the historical roots of cannabis in China, the government frames its use as a foreign menace, aligning with a puritanical and xenophobic stance. The crackdown extends to surveillance and policing, disproportionately affecting African nationals and highlighting systemic biases.

The article discusses the abrupt cancellation of the Chinese TV show 'Over the Sea I Come to You' amid the U.S.-China trade war, highlighting the growing trend of blacklisting American actors in Chinese productions. It explores the broader implications for Hollywood and the Chinese TV industry, which is facing financial and organizational challenges. The piece also touches on historical precedents of China's retaliatory actions against foreign entities and the potential long-term impact on U.S.-China relations in the entertainment sector.

The article discusses the abrupt cancellation of the Chinese TV show 'Over the Sea I Come to You' amid the U.S.-China trade war, highlighting the broader implications for American actors and Hollywood. It details how Chinese film studios are preemptively blacklisting American actors due to fears of government-imposed restrictions, drawing parallels to past actions against South Korean interests. The piece underscores the financial and organizational turmoil within the Chinese TV industry and the potential long-term impact on U.S.-China cultural and business relations.

The article discusses the U.S.-China trade war, focusing on the personal prestige and egos of the leaders involved, Donald Trump and Xi Jinping.

The article compares the personalities and leadership styles of U.S. President Donald Trump and Chinese President Xi Jinping, highlighting their contrasting approaches to power and public image. It discusses Trump's tendency to revel in others' loss of face and Xi's obsession with maintaining dignity and control. The piece reflects on the challenges Beijing faces in understanding Trump's unpredictable behavior and the changing tone of Chinese officials who initially projected confidence in handling Trump but have since shown signs of bewilderment. The article also touches on the historical context of U.S.-China relations and the personal attributes of both leaders that influence their political conduct.

The article explores the prevalence of school stabbings in China, contrasting it with mass shootings in the United States. It highlights a recent incident in Chongqing where a woman attacked children in a kindergarten, drawing parallels to past events and discussing the broader social and political context. The piece criticizes the Chinese government's censorship, lack of mental health support, and the societal pressures that may contribute to such violent acts. It also touches on the public's coping mechanisms and the state's failure to address underlying issues.

The article chronicles the 30-year pursuit and eventual capture of Gao Chengyong, China's most elusive serial killer, who terrorized the cities of Baiyin and Baotou between 1988 and 2002. Gao, a seemingly unremarkable shopkeeper, was responsible for the rape, mutilation, and murder of 11 women. The narrative delves into the societal and economic changes in China during this period, the challenges faced by law enforcement, and the eventual breakthrough in the case through advanced forensic techniques. Gao's arrest and trial highlight the complexities and secrecy within China's criminal justice system.

The article explores the phenomenon of Chinese men seeking romantic success through the teachings of seduction artists like Fei Ge, who offers advice on 'sexual assertiveness' and dating techniques. It highlights the cultural influence of Korean TV dramas on Chinese women and the growing industry of pickup artists in China, catering to men from various social classes. The narrative delves into the lengths to which men go, including significant financial investments, to find a suitable partner.

Many Chinese towns have developed economies based on single industries, with some turning to crime as a means of survival. Shisun village became notorious for a murder-for-profit scheme involving migrant miners, while other villages engage in drug production, internet fraud, and counterfeiting. The disparity between urban and rural China, minimal policing, and poverty contribute to these criminal activities. Local officials sometimes rely on crime for revenue, and traditional clan loyalty often overrides government authority. Scholars and commentators highlight the systemic issues and the complex social dynamics in these 'crime villages.'

The article explores the rise of pickup artist (PUA) culture in China, focusing on the activities of Puamap, a Chengdu-based organization that teaches men how to attract women using adapted Western techniques. It highlights the societal pressures faced by Chinese men, including skewed gender ratios and financial burdens associated with marriage. The text delves into the methods and ethics of PUA training, revealing a mix of confidence-building and controversial tactics. Key figures in the PUA community, such as Fei Ge and Nick Yang, are discussed, along with the broader social implications of this movement.

The article explores the influence of American right-wing conspiracy theories in China, particularly following Donald Trump's election. It highlights how Chinese social media platforms like WeChat and Weibo disseminate content from outlets like Breitbart and InfoWars, often without context or dissent. The spread of such theories is facilitated by China's censorship apparatus, which allows criticism of foreign entities while controlling domestic narratives. The article also discusses the broader implications of this phenomenon, including the reinforcement of nationalist sentiments and the mistrust of the U.S. political system among Chinese elites.

The article explores the influence of American right-wing conspiracy theories, particularly from outlets like Breitbart and InfoWars, on Chinese social media and public opinion. It highlights how these theories are translated and disseminated in China, often without context, and how they resonate with certain segments of the Chinese population, including educated elites. The piece also discusses the broader implications of this trend, including the role of Chinese state censorship and the spread of misinformation. The article underscores the complex interplay between domestic and foreign political commentary in China, suggesting that discussions about foreign politics often serve as veiled critiques of domestic issues.

The article by Robert Foyle Hunwick provides an in-depth look at the nightlife in Pyongyang, North Korea, detailing the experiences of foreigners in various bars and nightclubs such as the Egyptian Palace and the Diplomatic Club. It describes the limited but growing options for entertainment, the increase in private car ownership, and the presence of mobile phones, indicating a slight easing of societal controls. The article also touches on the local drinking culture, mentioning the preference for strong liquor and the government's policy of keeping alcohol prices low. It discusses the Taedonggang brewery's use of British equipment and the general acceptance of social drinking in North Korea. The author shares anecdotes of interactions with locals during drinking sessions and notes the rarity of bar fights or excessive drunkenness. The article concludes with a personal story of a North Korean guide's hangover, highlighting the commonalities between North Koreans and Westerners despite cultural differences.

The article discusses the transformation of the People's Liberation Army (PLA) from a force that was once feared and resented after the Tiananmen Square crackdown to one that is now seen as a symbol of national pride and strength in China. The PLA's image has been rehabilitated through government policies, censorship, and propaganda, emphasizing its role in disaster relief and as a protector of the nation. President Xi Jinping's efforts to modernize the PLA and rid it of corruption are also highlighted. The article explores the complex relationship between the Chinese people and the PLA, noting the impact of patriotic education and propaganda on public perception. The author reflects on the nightly songs sung by PLA soldiers near his Beijing home, which serve as a reminder of China's communist identity and the PLA's evolving role in society.

The article explores the resurgence of the People's Liberation Army's (PLA) popularity in China, detailing its historical context, particularly the Tiananmen Square crackdown, and the subsequent efforts by the Chinese government to rehabilitate its image through propaganda and patriotic education. It highlights President Xi Jinping's role in modernizing the military and combating corruption within its ranks. The narrative underscores the PLA's transformation from a force marred by past atrocities to one celebrated for its disaster relief efforts and national defense, reflecting broader themes of nationalism and state control.

Playboy has shifted its strategy by removing nude content to focus on expanding its brand in China, where pornography is illegal. The company aims to appeal to a younger demographic and has signed a 10-year partnership to license its logo for various consumer products. Despite its diminished prestige, Playboy's brand remains profitable in China, leveraging its high name recognition. The company has faced challenges in maintaining a sophisticated image and combating counterfeit products. Attempts to introduce Playboy Clubs in China have largely failed due to regulatory and cultural barriers.

The article discusses Playboy's strategic shift in China, where it has removed nudity from its magazine to comply with local laws against pornography. Playboy Enterprises has refocused on licensing its brand for non-pornographic products, such as clothing and fragrances, which has proven profitable despite the country's luxury slowdown. The brand's logo is recognized by 97% of Chinese consumers, outpacing luxury brands like Cartier and Louis Vuitton. However, the brand's image in China contrasts with its international reputation, often associated with lower-end consumer segments and knock-off products. Playboy's history in China includes battling associations with Western vulgarity and adapting to the market by emphasizing lifestyle over explicit content. The company's licensing strategy has been crucial for its survival, despite failed attempts to upscale the brand with ventures like Playboy Clubs in Shanghai and Macau.

The article discusses the trend of extravagant marriage proposals in China, where men are going to great lengths to impress potential brides in a highly competitive marriage market. This includes grand gestures like arranging luxury cars in the shape of a heart, offering unusual gifts such as 99 iPhones, and even a suitor setting himself on fire. The trend is partly a response to the gender imbalance caused by the one-child policy and the cultural preference for male heirs, which has resulted in a surplus of men. The article suggests that these proposals are not just about romance but also about demonstrating financial stability and status in a society where marriage is often seen as a business deal. Despite the grandeur of these proposals, they do not always guarantee success, as seen in the case of the man who was rejected despite offering 99 iPhones.

The article explores the history and current state of Kep and Kampot, once part of Cambodia's 'Riviera' during the 1960s. It delves into the region's decline due to war and the Khmer Rouge regime, and its slow recovery marked by abandoned villas and a mix of nostalgia and neglect. The narrative highlights the efforts of individuals like Jef Moons to restore the area, while also noting the ongoing challenges and frenzied development that threaten its historical charm. The piece reflects on the complex relationship between the past and present in these coastal towns.

Guo Meimei, a socialite who became famous for flaunting her wealth on social media, was sentenced to five years in prison for running an illegal casino. Her case reflects a broader crackdown on corruption and ostentatious displays of wealth in China since President Xi Jinping took office. The trend among China's rich has shifted towards more discreet spending, coinciding with Xi's anti-corruption campaign. Guo's association with the Red Cross Society of China, which she claimed to work for, led to a significant drop in donations and public trust for the charity, despite their denial of any connection with her.

The article discusses the Nanjing Massacre Memorial Hall in China, which documents the atrocities committed by Japanese forces during their occupation in 1937. The museum is meticulously detailed, contrasting with the often sanitized official narratives of China's own history. The author explores the compulsory school visits to the museum and the presence of war-themed pornography in the gift shop. The article delves into the broader context of how wartime sadism is portrayed in Chinese media, with a focus on the sexual violence against women as a recurring theme. It examines the role of 'patriotic education' in shaping Chinese perceptions of Japan and the use of sexual atrocities in nationalistic propaganda. The piece also touches on the portrayal of Japanese in Chinese films and television, the popularity of Japanese pornography in China, and the complex relationship between historical grievances and contemporary cultural consumption. The author suggests that the intertwining of sexual imagery with nationalistic sentiment serves as a form of psychological revenge for historical humiliations.

The article explores the complex interplay between Chinese nationalism, historical narratives of Japanese wartime atrocities, and the consumption of Japanese pornography in China. It delves into how the Nanjing Massacre and other wartime events are depicted in Chinese media, often with a focus on sexual violence, and how these depictions serve to reinforce nationalistic sentiments. The piece also examines the popularity of Japanese adult video in China, suggesting that it fulfills a form of 'erotic imperialism' and serves as a means for Chinese men to symbolically reclaim power. The article highlights the ongoing cultural and psychological impacts of these narratives on Chinese society.

China's fascination with amateur porn is driven by a combination of government censorship and a burgeoning internet culture. The article explores various sex scandals, including the Uniqlo incident, and the public's reaction to them. It highlights the tension between conservative government policies and the liberal attitudes of Chinese youth. The government's heavy-handed approach to censorship is criticized, and the article suggests that the allure of amateur porn is partly due to its transgressive nature. The piece also touches on the broader implications for Chinese society and its evolving attitudes towards sexuality.

China's fascination with amateur porn is explored through various scandals, including the Uniqlo tape, which highlights the tension between a conservative government and a sexually curious public. The article discusses the cultural and political implications of these scandals, noting the government's heavy-handed censorship and the public's growing interest in DIY porn as a form of rebellion. It also touches on the historical context of China's relationship with pornography and the impact of viral sex tapes on public figures and ordinary citizens alike.

Beijing's smoking ban, implemented on June 1, has shown early signs of success, with significant fines collected and public support growing. The ban covers all public places, and its enforcement has been more consistent compared to previous efforts in other Chinese cities. Despite some resistance, particularly from higher-ups and the powerful State Tobacco Monopoly Administration, public health advocates and many residents are optimistic. The real test will come in winter when outdoor smoking becomes less feasible. The ban reflects Beijing's aspiration to align with global health standards and reduce its public health burden.

Beijing's smoking ban, implemented on June 1, has shown early signs of success, with significant fines collected and public compliance observed. The ban covers all public places, and its enforcement has been more consistent compared to previous efforts in other Chinese cities. The initiative is part of Beijing's broader goal to present itself as a model city, aligning with global health standards. Despite some resistance and the challenge posed by the State Tobacco Monopoly Administration, public support for the ban is growing, with many smokers planning to quit. The real test will come during the winter months when outdoor smoking becomes less feasible.

Longform highlights its favorite international articles of the week, covering topics such as the struggle of London's Garrick Club to admit women, the paranoia of activists Ai Weiwei, Laura Poitras, and Jacob Appelbaum regarding government surveillance, the cultural misunderstandings in adoption between the Marshall Islands and the Ozarks, the cruise industry's expansion into China, and the remnants of the Cultural Revolution in China. The articles provide a mix of factual reporting and subjective analysis, with critiques on gender inequality, government surveillance, and historical actions of the Communist Party of China.

The Righteous Path Farm Academy in Hebei province, founded by Han Deqiang, promotes a spiritual and ideological movement that rejects materialism and embraces communal living, simplicity, and hard work. The academy, supported by Maoist sympathizers, offers students an alternative to the competitive and materialistic mainstream society. The article explores the academy's ideological roots, its connection to Maoist principles, and the broader context of China's political and social landscape, including the legacy of the Cultural Revolution and the current political climate under President Xi Jinping.

Chinese journalists from Shenzhen Evening News have been accused of sneaking into a hospital dressed as nurses to photograph the deceased pop star Yao Beina. The incident sparked outrage on social media, with many condemning the unethical tactics of China's tabloids. Yao Beina, known for her theme song to the film 1942 and her participation in Voice of China, died of cancer at age 33. Her agent and fans expressed their anger, highlighting the ongoing issues with press freedom and media ethics in China.

Li Zhurun, a former Xinhua reporter, admitted to being duped by an April Fool's hoax from 1981 that claimed US cadets at West Point Military Academy were taught about Chinese model worker Lei Feng. The story, based on a United Press International wire, was believed due to unfamiliarity with Western April Fool's traditions. Despite Lei Feng being mostly an amusing anachronism in China and virtually unknown in the West, Chinese media have a history of reporting unsubstantiated stories of Chinese soft power abroad. Other instances include fake reports from The Onion being taken seriously by Chinese media, such as a satirical article about Kim Jong-un being named the

Facebook removed a video of Tibetan monk Kalshang Yeshi's self-immolation from its platform, citing a lack of warning tools for graphic content. The deletion, which occurred after Facebook CEO Mark Zuckerberg's visit to Beijing, raised concerns about the company's compliance with Chinese censorship. Tibetan writer Tsering Woeser, who posted the video, and activist Hu Jia criticized the action. China's internet tsar Lu Wei made ambiguous comments about foreign companies operating in China, while human rights activists highlighted the suppression of Tibetan freedom and culture.

A highly anticipated TV drama about China's first female emperor, Wu Zetian, has been pulled from Hunan TV after just one week, sparking speculation that its revealing costumes may have offended censors. The series, starring and produced by Fan Bingbing, faced scrutiny from China's State Administration of Press, Publication, Radio, Film and Television, which has strict regulations on content. The show's cancellation highlights the unpredictable enforcement of censorship rules in China and the challenges faced by historical dramas in the country's media landscape.

Traditional Chinese culinary traditions, including dishes like sheep’s head and quick-boiled tripe, are at risk following the death of a prominent supporter, the owner of Baodu restaurant with a 160-year history dating back to the Qing Dynasty. The restaurant and others like it, which were collectivized during government reforms in the late 1950s, saw a decline in traditional skills. A revival in the 1980s led by Mr. Feng faced challenges from commercialization and competition from fast-food chains like KFC and McDonald's. Despite the decline from 600 to under 30 traditional dishes, Mr. Feng's restaurant was recognized as one of Beijing's best. Mr. Feng passed away from a lung infection, and his restaurants closed briefly in his honor.

The article discusses how Christmas is celebrated in China, highlighting the cultural adaptations and commercialization of the festival. Despite being a Western religious holiday, Christmas has gained popularity among young Chinese, particularly due to the influence of students returning from abroad. Retailers have extended the spending season, and Christmas decorations and festivities are now common, though often without religious elements. The article also touches on the growing number of Christians in China, the government's ambiguous stance on Christmas, and the use of the holiday for both commercial and evangelistic purposes. It contrasts the festive and consumerist nature of Christmas in China with the more solemn traditional Chinese festivals and notes the irony of Christmas's popularity in a communist country.

Lu Yong, a Chinese cancer patient, has been charged with fraud and selling 'fake drugs' after importing and distributing affordable cancer medication from India to over 1,000 patients. His actions, reminiscent of the film 'Dallas Buyers Club,' have made him a folk hero in China. Despite his arrest and ongoing legal issues, Lu remains unrepentant, emphasizing the life-saving impact of his efforts. The case highlights the challenges faced by patients in China due to the high cost of medication and the lack of coverage in medical insurance.

A team of medical staff at Fengcheng Hospital in Xian was dismissed after posting celebratory 'selfie' photos online following a complex surgery. The incident, which was seen as disrespectful to the patient and the medical profession, led to the sacking and fining of several senior staff members. The severe disciplinary actions have sparked a debate on the pressures faced by medical professionals and the appropriateness of sharing such images on social media. The incident also highlights broader issues within China's healthcare system, including low pay, bureaucratic inefficiencies, and high patient expectations.

A Beijing court has ordered the Xinyu Piaoxiang clinic to compensate Peng Yanhui for using hypnosis and shock therapy to 'treat' his homosexuality, marking a significant victory for China's gay rights movement. The court ruled that homosexuality is not a disease and mandated the clinic to stop promoting 'homosexual therapy' and publish the verdict in major psychological journals. Although the court did not award damages, it required the clinic to pay Peng RMB3,500 yuan in costs. The case, hailed as historic by LGBT advocates, underscores the growing recognition of gay rights in China.

A luxury French villa linked to disgraced Chinese politician Bo Xilai is on sale for €6.95 million. Bo, previously a Communist Party leader, was sentenced to life imprisonment for corruption. The villa, located in Cannes, was allegedly acquired through bribery and is subject to confiscation under a 2013 court verdict. Despite international agreements on asset recovery, the complex ownership structure complicates the process. Jiang Feng Dolby, a Bo family friend, currently manages the property. China's President Xi Jinping continues to emphasize anti-corruption, with initiatives like 'Operation Fox Hunt' targeting fugitive officials.

In Guangzhou, China, police arrested members of a notorious South China gang and uncovered a meth production operation led by a former plastics worker nicknamed 'Professor Xu,' similar to the 'Breaking Bad' character Heisenberg. Xu, whose real name is Liao, utilized his access to raw materials for meth production and evolved from a middleman to a meth-cooking mentor, charging for cooking classes and networking with gangs. His downfall was linked to a partnership with a gang leader known as 'Old A.' The U.S. meth supply is largely sourced from Mexican cartels using ingredients from China, where meth has become increasingly popular.

Dr. Ning Fanggang, a prominent Beijing surgeon, has challenged the efficacy of Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) by offering a cash prize for proof of its diagnostic claims, specifically the ability to detect pregnancy through pulse reading. Despite the challenge, which has faced criticism and limited participation, the debate over TCM's scientific validity continues. The article highlights the historical and cultural significance of TCM, its economic impact, and the ongoing tension between traditional practices and modern medical science. Notable figures in the discussion include Ning, other TCM practitioners, and critics who emphasize the need for rigorous scientific testing.

Zhou Xiaoping, a blogger praised by Chinese President Xi Jinping, has sparked controversy with his anti-American essays, which contain numerous inaccuracies. His rise to prominence highlights China's ideological battle against Western values and the government's tight control over dissenting voices. Critics like Fang Shimin, who debunked Zhou's claims, face severe censorship and retaliation. The article underscores the broader implications of China's media landscape and the government's use of 'wumao' commentators to shape public opinion.

The article explores the challenges and potential of stand-up comedy in China, focusing on the experiences of comedians Mark Rowswell and Joe Wong. It highlights the cultural and systemic barriers they face, such as the conservative nature of Chinese media and the historical dominance of crosstalk. Despite these challenges, both comedians are finding ways to connect with younger audiences and adapt their acts to the local context. The piece also touches on the broader implications of humor as a form of expression and rebellion in a tightly controlled society.

The article explores the influence of British fashion and cultural trends on young Chinese individuals, highlighting the popularity of British labels and styles in China. It discusses how British pop culture, often accessed through unofficial channels, has shaped the fashion choices of Chinese youth. The article also touches on the role of overseas education and travel in spreading British style, and the various subcultures within China that have adopted and adapted these trends.

The article explores the widespread use of ketamine in South China, particularly in private karaoke rooms and nightclubs. It highlights the drug's popularity, its production and distribution, and the cultural attitudes towards its use. The narrative includes personal experiences, insights from law enforcement and health professionals, and statistical data on drug seizures and addiction treatment. The article also touches on the broader context of drug use in China, including the influence of neighboring regions and the challenges faced by authorities in combating drug trafficking and addiction.