US Democrats’ win could squeeze China; star mathematician leaves US: SCMP’s 7 highlights

1. The US midterm elections resulted in a significant shift that could impact China's advancements in artificial intelligence, paving the way for clearer bilateral talks between the two nations.

2. A Chinese mechanic reported early damage in high-pressure turbine blades from GE Aerospace engines used in Boeing 787 aircraft, leaving airlines with a challenging decision: replace the engines or maintain strict inspections.

3. The upcoming House speaker, expected to be a Democrat, has met Taiwan's former leader and supported legislation backing the island, but is unlikely to engage with Taipei on the same level as Nancy Pelosi, according to analysts.

4. Hong Kong activist Joshua Wong Chi-fung has been sentenced to 10 years in prison for his involvement in a global campaign to impose sanctions on mainland China and Hong Kong following the 2019 protests.

5. Renowned mathematician Ma Xiao, who previously contributed to a breakthrough on Hilbert's sixth problem, has opted to leave the US to return to his alma mater, the University of Science and Technology of China in Hefei, and pivot his career towards artificial intelligence.

6. Malaysian police are investigating a viral video showing a father slapping a woman in a Kuala Lumpur mall, as the woman is alleged to have assaulted his two young children.

7. A food delivery driver from northeastern China, who married an American teacher just four months after confessing his love, has announced their divorce.