A new study finds socioeconomic disparities in rates of emergency department (ED) visits for concussion among children and youth.
Researchers from ICES, York University, Toronto Metropolitan University, and the University of Calgary found an increase in ED visits for concussion among all age groups prior to the pandemic, with the biggest increase among older children and teens (ages 10 to 19 years). However, children in the highest socioeconomic status group accounted for significantly more concussion-related ED visits than children in the lowest socioeconomic status group.
These trends are concerning, and flag a potential issue of equity among youth who may not have access to the same protocols and support for concussion care that we see in higher income populations.”
Dr. Alison Macpherson, lead author, professor in the School of Kinesiology and Health Science at York University and senior adjunct scientist at ICES
The study, published in the BMJ journal Injury Prevention, analyzed data for all Ontario ED visits for children and adolescents (ages 0 – 19 years old) with a diagnosis of concussion between 2010 and 2020. Socioeconomic status was assessed using categories of household material deprivation, which includes low income, unemployment, single parent families, parents without a high school diploma, and living in dwellings in need of major repair. The data were analyzed by age and sex.
There was a rise in concussion-related ED visits for all age groups. The 10-14 and 15-19 age groups had the greatest increases, from 350 and 382 per 100,000 in 2010 to 737 and 872 per 100,000 in 2019, respectively.
Further, rates among children with the lowest socioeconomic status rose from 36.7 in 2010 to 43.3 in 2020, compared to 62.6 and 61.8 for children in the highest socioeconomic status group.
While a large proportion of concussions are related to sports, which may be inaccessible to children with lower socioeconomic status, the socioeconomic gradient remained in 2020 when most organized sports were put on hold due to the COVID-19 pandemic. It is unlikely that sport participation is the only reason for the differences and there may be systemic barriers to concussion diagnoses.
The researchers suggest that reasons for lower rates of emergency department use among children and youth from low socioeconomic populations could be children’s distance to hospitals, lack of information about concussion, and language or cultural barriers.
This is one of the first large, population-based studies to reveal an association between socioeconomic status and emergency department visits for concussion, while also showing changes in concussion visits over time, analyzed by age and sex. One limitation is that concussions may have been underrepresented if children did not seek medical attention for their injury, or if they saw a family doctor or other health care provider instead of visiting the ED. The researchers note that further study is needed to understand the full scope of concussion-related healthcare utilization.
“It’s important that policy-makers, school boards, and coaches and teachers are aware of the socioeconomic differences in concussion-related emergency visits, so that they consider equity when creating policies about concussion and when delivering concussion prevention programs,” says senior author Dr. Linda Rothman, an associate professor for the School of Occupational and Public Health at Toronto Metropolitan University.
Source:
Institute for Clinical Evaluative Sciences
Journal reference:
Macpherson, A. K., et al. (2025). Emergency department visits for concussion in children and youth by age, sex and material deprivation in Ontario, Canada, 2010–2020: a population-based study. Injury Prevention. doi.org/10.1136/ip-2024-045556.
Deputy Prime Minister (DPM) and Foreign Minister Ishaq Dar delivers a statement at 32nd ASEAN Regional Forum (ARF) meeting in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia, on July 11, 2025. — PID
KUALA LUMPUR/ISLAMABAD: Deputy Prime Minister (DPM) Ishaq Dar has said the military-to-military ceasefire between Pakistan and India is holding steady, however, it appears that the latter’s political leadership is not coming to terms with the recent defeat.
“Pakistan-India military-to-military ceasefire is working fine, but India’s political leadership is unable to digest it,” said the DPM, who also holds the portfolio of foreign minister, while speaking during an event hosted by the Pakistan High Commission in Kuala Lumpur on Friday.
FM Dar, who is in Kuala Lumpur for the 32nd Ministerial Meeting of the ASEAN Regional Forum (ARF), slammed India for suspending the Indus Waters Treaty (IWT) and called the step as strange move. “India cannot stop or divert Pakistan’s water… New Delhi is facing growing isolation globally,” he said. India is becoming isolated on the international stage due to its aggressive policies, he added.
Recalling Pakistan’s swift response to Indian action during the conflict, Dar said the PAF shot down six Indian planes including four Rafales. He said that during the recent tensions, India had intentionally targeted Sikh-populated areas with missile strikes. The deputy prime minister went on to say that India started the war and ended it by asking for a ceasefire. “At 8:15 in the morning, [the] US secretary of state called and said India wants a ceasefire,” he recalled.
On Pakistan’s economic outlook, Dar said the country had taken off despite tough conditions. Pakistan has made an economic take-off and now our goal is to get the country included in the G20, he added.
Earlier in the day, Ishaq Dar called on Malaysian Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim on the sidelines of 32nd ASEAN Regional Forum Ministerial Meeting. He conveyed warm wishes from Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif and reaffirmed Pakistan’s commitment to deepening bilateral ties with Malaysia. He also appreciated Malaysia’s leadership as ASEAN Chair for the year 2025. The Malaysian prime minister reciprocated the warm sentiments and said he looked forward to the visit of PM Shehbaz Sharif this year in October.
Dar thanked PM Ibrahim for the warm hospitality and impressive arrangements at the ASEAN meeting. He also appreciated the practical steps taken by the Malaysian side for promotion of trade and investment between the two countries following the visit of PM Anwar Ibrahim to Pakistan in October last year. Separately, Pakistan on Friday ridiculed the continuous Indian narrative regarding the May 7 attacks against Pakistan, and explained that boasting of military aggression against a sovereign nation is a grave breach of the United Nations Charter and established principles of international law.
Responding to remarks by Indian NSA Ajit Doval, who claimed in Madras that India attacked 13 air bases in Pakistan, and did not miss any of its nine targets on Pakistan, the spokesperson at the Foreign Office said these remarks “are replete with distortions and misrepresentations”.
Speaking at the weekly media briefing, he said, “The remarks not only reflect a deliberate attempt to mislead the public, but also violate the norms of responsible statecraft. Boasting of military aggression against a sovereign nation is a grave breach of the United Nations Charter and established principles of international law. Rather than resorting to fictitious narratives, India should accept the downing of six fighter jets and severe damages to other military targets”.
He pointed out that besides, it was a matter of public knowledge that the so-called terrorist targets attacked by India resulted actually in the death of civilians, including women and children.
“Glorification of conflict benefits no one. The path of a lasting peace lies in dialogue, mutual respect and adherence to international law,” he added.
To another query, the spokesman pointed out that Indian involvement in sponsoring terrorism in Pakistan is very clear, and the international community is now becoming more aware of it. “Initially, the Indian state sponsored terrorism was targeting Pakistan, but we have seen that in the recent past, it has gone global. If this Indian malign approach is not checked, we have seen the consequences of that. India has tried to orchestrate a global assassination campaign, trying to kill people in Canada, the US and other countries,” he said.
In this context, he pointed out that in terms of its sponsoring terrorism inside Pakistan, “We maintain interaction with important friends and partners in the international community. We keep sharing our perspective, our evidence, which we obtain, and keep highlighting what India is doing in the region to destabilise it.”
Turning to Afghanistan, the spokesperson said that during additional secretary-level talks between the two countries, the issue of infiltration had been highlighted just as in the past.
“We stay engaged with the Afghan authorities and approach dialogue with good faith. In good faith we try to engage Afghanistan and develop friendly, brotherly, neighbourly relations. But the core point flagged remains sanctuaries enjoyed by terrorists inside the Afghan territory. Discussions on the issue are an ongoing process and we continue to raise this issue. We hope Afghan side will take up our concerns with more seriousness and greater responsibility,” he said.
Speaking on the arbitration decision, which Pakistan won at the International Court, he said that it amounted to legitimising Pakistan’s position. “An important international legal forum has clearly ruled, basically upheld our position on Indus Waters Treaty. We have articulated our overall position on this important issue on several occasions. This is about the survival of 250 million people. This is not a trifling matter. And our red lines are very clear. We will not allow our water to be diverted. This is what I can say at this point in time. Finally, the International Court of Arbitration decision, delegitimises India’s position,” he added.
The 94th ‘Youm-e-Shuhada-e-Kashmir’ (Kashmir Martyrs Day) will be observed on July 13, 2025 to remember the martyrdom of 22 Kashmiris, who sacrificed their lives in Srinagar in 1931 while braving the indiscriminate firing of Dogra forces of the erstwhile ‘Maharaja’ of Jammu and Kashmir. “We salute their courage and bravery, which ignited a valiant struggle for the Kashmiri peoples’ fundamental rights and freedoms,” said the spokesperson.
“Earlier this week, the ninth anniversary of extrajudicial killing of the Kashmiri youth leader, Burhan Muzaffar Wani, was observed. Wani was one of the hundreds of Kashmiri youth, who have been victims of extra-judicial killings. So, we once again urge the Government of India to bring an end to extra-judicial killings and desist from indiscriminate use of force against the Kashmiri people,” he added.
The representational image shows a PIF plane taking off. — PIA/File
ISLAMABAD: Pakistan has moved a step closer to offloading its loss-making national carrier, as all four shortlisted investor consortiums are set to begin buy-side due diligence next week with access to PIA’s Karachi headquarters for in-depth briefings, officials said.
This is a critical phase and a step in the competitive and transparent privatization process of the national carrier. It will provide potential bidders with firsthand insight into PIA’s operations. According to sources familiar with the matter, representatives of the four consortiums will receive comprehensive briefings at the PIA head-office, covering operational, financial, and strategic aspects of the airline. Topics will include PIA’s fleet size, domestic and international routes, employee structure, revenue streams, and operational challenges.
The PIA management has been directed to remain fully prepared to present official records and respond to queries from the visiting investors. The government intends to ensure a transparent and well-informed bidding process by granting access to the airline’s business plans and internal data during this due diligence phase.
On July 8, the Privatization Commission board has pre-qualified four groups including two consortia: one comprising Lucky Cement Limited, Hub Power Holdings, Kohat Cement Company, and Metro Ventures; the other made is Arif Habib Corporation, Fatima Fertilizer, City Schools, and Lake City Holdings. The remaining two prequalified bidders are Fauji Fertilizer Company and Air Blue (Pvt.) Limited.
These visits and briefings are seen as a crucial step before the submission of final bids, allowing investors to assess risks, liabilities, and growth potential. Officials believe that informed decision-making through access to real-time operational data will result in competitive and credible offers.
The privatization of the loss-making national carrier is part of the government’s broader economic reform agenda aimed at offloading underperforming state-owned enterprises and attracting private sector efficiency and investment. If completed successfully, it could mark a turning point for the aviation sector in Pakistan and revive PIA’s fortunes under a new management.
PKC412, a medication already used for treating certain blood cancers, has the potential to be repurposed for treating epidermolysis bullosa simplex (EBS), according to a preclinical study.
Using skin cells from people with various EBS-causing genetic mutations, scientists found that PKC412, also known as midostaurin, made the cells more resilient against stress and damage. In a newly developed three-dimensional (3D) EBS skin model, the treatment eased blistering.
“Repurposing of PKC412 as a therapy for EBS offers a targeted approach to enhance cellular resilience in this challenging condition,” researchers wrote.
The study, “Preclinical validation of PKC412 as a therapy candidate for epidermolysis bullosa simplex across multiple keratin pathogenic variants,” was published in the British Journal of Dermatology. It was funded by Debra Austria.
Recommended Reading
Existing medications could be repurposed for EBS
EBS is usually caused by mutations in the KRT5 or KRT14 genes. These mutations affect the organization and integrity of the keratin proteins that give structure to the outer layer of the skin, or epidermis.
Keratin proteins in EBS form abnormal clumps instead of assembling into their usually strong networks. Keratinocytes, the skin cells that produce keratins, become very fragile and prone to rupturing.
People with EBS thus have an epidermis that’s easily damaged and blistered, even with minor friction or pressure. In severe cases, the disease can also cause blistering in the mucous membranes that line body cavities.
Treatment for EBS largely relies on supportive care to manage symptoms and prevent complications. Identifying medications that are already used for other reasons and which could be repurposed for EBS may offer avenues for new therapeutic development, according to the authors.
PKC412 is approved in oral formulations (sold under the brand name Rydapt) for treating certain forms of blood cancer. It works to inhibit certain enzymes that play a role in cell growth and other cell-signaling pathways.
Previously, scientists found PKC412 prevented keratin clumping in cells derived from EBS patients and made the cells more resilient against stress.
In the recent study, the scientists further explored the potential of PKC412 as a repurposed EBS treatment. They investigated its effects in keratinocytes derived from EBS patients with a range of disease-causing mutations spanning milder and more severe forms of the disease.
The results showed the treatment enhanced the stability of keratinocyte networks, helping the cells better anchor together. In turn, keratinocytes were more resilient against damage when stretched.
To better replicate human EBS, the researchers developed a 3D epidermis model using the patients’ keratinocytes. They found the model reflected features of the disease, including easy blistering, but this was reduced with PKC412 treatment. The therapy also restored cellular integrity and organization.
These results indicate that PKC412 does not produce readily detectable adverse effects and provides important insights into the tolerability of PKC412 treatment on healthy skin.
In other experiments, PKC412 appeared to reduce a cellular modification to the desmoplakin protein called phosphorylation. Desmoplakin is involved in helping to form strong cellular networks in the epidermis, and its excessive phosphorylation has been associated with EBS.
Importantly, PKC412 appeared well tolerated in a healthy skin model, where it did not cause cell death or interfere with normal cell growth and maturation.
“These results indicate that PKC412 does not produce readily detectable adverse effects and provides important insights into the tolerability of PKC412 treatment on healthy skin,” the team noted.
PKC412 is used orally to treat cancer, but the researchers pointed out that systemic or local delivery to the skin could be beneficial for EBS.
While the results from these cell models are promising, the team emphasized that comprehensive studies in animal models will be important for establishing “clinical dosing regimens, application methods and long-term outcomes… in order to successfully translate our results to the clinical context.”
A cut in the fuel supply to the engines caused last month’s Air India crash that killed 260 people, a preliminary report has found.
The London-bound plane had barely left the runway at Ahmedabad airport when it hurtled back to earth. Everyone on board was killed, except for one passenger.
According to the report by India’s Aircraft Accident Investigation Bureau, obtained by CNN, the fuel control switches in the cockpit of the Boeing 787 Dreamliner had been flipped, starving the engines of fuel.
Investigators were able to get data out of the plane’s “black box” recorders, including 49 hours of flight data and two hours of cockpit audio, including from the crash.
The aircraft had reached an airspeed of 180 knots when both engines’ fuel cutoff switches were “transitioned from RUN to CUTOFF position one after another with a time gap of 01 sec,” according to the report.
“In the cockpit voice recording, one of the pilots is heard asking the other why did he cutoff. The other pilot responded that he did not do so,” the report reads.
Shortly after, the switches were reversed back to where they should have been, and the engines were in the process of powering back up when the crash happened.
On the 787, the fuel cutoff switches are between the two pilots’ seats, immediately behind the plane’s throttle levers. They are protected on the sides by a metal bar and have a locking mechanism designed to prevent accidental cutoff.
Airport footage shows the Ram Air Turbine, an emergency power source on an aircraft, deployed during the plane’s initial climb after takeoff, the report said. The plane started to lose altitude before crossing the airport perimeter wall.
“When fuel control switches are moved from CUTOFF to RUN while the aircraft is inflight, each engines full authority dual engine control automatically manages a relight and thrust recovery sequence of ignition and fuel introduction,” the report states.
Seconds after the engines attempted to relight, one pilot called out, “MAYDAY MAYDAY MAYDAY.” The controller called out for the plane’s callsign, but didn’t get a response and watched the plane crash in the distance.
The fuel switches were “designed to be intentionally moved,” according to CNN safety analyst David Soucie, who said cases in which all fuel switches were turned off accidentally are “extremely rare.”
“Throughout the years, those switches have been improved to make sure that they cannot be accidentally moved and that they’re not automatic. They don’t move themselves in any manner,” Soucie said on Friday.
The captain of the flight was a 56-year-old who had flown more than 15,000 hours in his career. The first officer was a 32-year old man with over 3,400 flying hours.
Investigators also noted settings on equipment found in the wreckage was normal for takeoff. The plane’s fuel was tested and found to be of satisfactory quality, and no significant bird activity is observed in the vicinity of the flight path, according to the report.
The takeoff weight for the plane was found to be within allowable limits, and there were no “Dangerous Goods” on the aircraft. Investigators found the flaps on the wings of the plane were set in the 5-degree position, which is correct for takeoff, and the landing gear lever was in the down position.
The left engine was installed on the plane on March 26 and the right was installed on May 1, the report said.
Air India flight 171 took off from Ahmedabad’s Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel International Airport in India’s western state of Gujarat on June 12. The Boeing 787-8 Dreamliner was headed to London Gatwick, and scheduled to land at 6:25 p.m. local time.
Air India had said 242 passengers and crew members were on board. That included 169 Indian nationals, 53 Britons, seven Portuguese and one Canadian.
In addition to those on board, a number of people on the ground were killed when the plane crashed into the BJ Medical College and Hospital hostel.
The crash resulted in 260 fatalities total, according to the report. A number of the dead on the ground resulted from the plane hitting the hostel.
Air India acknowledged that it received the report and said it will continue cooperating with authorities in the investigation.
“Air India stands in solidarity with the families and those affected by the AI171 accident,” the airline posted to X on Saturday (local time). “We continue to mourn the loss and are fully committed to providing support during this difficult time.”
This story has been updated with additional developments.
Jasprit Bumrah marked his India return by gaining a coveted place on the Lord’s honours boards with a five-wicket haul before England paceman Brydon Carse’s maiden Test fifty frustrated the tourists.
Bumrah, the world’s top-ranked Test bowler, took 5-74 in 27 overs as England were dismissed for 387 in their first innings after lunch on Friday’s second day of the third Test.
Bumrah’s haul included a brilliant burst Friday of three for one in seven balls that reduced England, who resumed on 251-4, to 271-7, with the fast bowler dismissing captain Ben Stokes, century-maker Joe Root and Chris Woakes.
But tailender Carse frustrated India with 56 after he shared a valuable eighth-wicket stand of 84 with Jamie Smith.
England wicketkeeper Smith made India pay for dropping him on five with an innings of 51.
That followed his impressive scores of 184 not out and 88 during India’s crushing 336-run win in the second Test at Edgbaston last week.
That victory meant India levelled this five-match series at 1-1 despite resting Bumrah in Birmingham.
Initial interest Friday focused on whether Root, 99 not out overnight, would go on to make a hundred.
In all 17 previous instances in Test cricket, batsmen who were 99 not out overnight completed their centuries the following morning. Root maintained the sequence off Friday’s first ball, pushing a wide Bumrah delivery past gully for four.
That fortunate boundary completed Root’s 37th Test century, fifth on an all-time list headed by India’s Sachin Tendulkar with 51 hundreds.
Stokes, fit following a groin injury that hampered him on Thursday, had added just five runs to his overnight 39 when he was bowled by a Bumrah delivery that jagged back and smashed into off stump.
Next ball, Woakes fell for a golden duck as he got a thin edge to reserve wicketkeeper Dhruv Jurel, still deputising after Rishabh Pant suffered a finger injury on Thursday.
Carse survived the hat-trick delivery but England were still struggling at 271-7.
Their position would have been even worse had KL Rahul not dropped a relatively straightforward slip chance when Smith had made just five, with Mohammed Siraj the unlucky bowler.
Smith went onto complete a 52-ball fifty including a whipped four through midwicket off Bumrah, with Carse also flaying the paceman through the covers.
However, Smith was out shortly after lunch when he was caught behind off the persevering Siraj.
Bumrah then bowled Jofra Archer, playing his first Test after more than four years of injury exile, to complete his five-wicket haul.
Carse was dropped on 45 when Akash Deep failed to hold a tough chance running back towards deep midwicket.
But the unconcerned Carse went to fifty in style when he launched a Siraj slower delivery for a superb straight six to reach the landmark in 77 balls.
South African-born Carse was dropped again before he was last man out hitting across the line against a yorker from Siraj, who finished with 2-85 in 23.3 overs.
SPOILER ALERT: This post contains details about Love Island USA Season 7, Episode 34.
The final week of Love Island USA Season 7 is here, and only four couples will make it to the final.
Following the dumping of Clarke Carraway and Taylor Williams, America was allowed to vote for their favorite couple once again, and two Islanders would be left vulnerable to leaving the villa.
RELATED: ‘Love Island USA’ Season 7: All The Dumped Islanders From Jeremiah Brown To Cierra Ortega & More
The remaining couples are Amaya Espinal & Bryan Arenales, Iris Kendall & Pepe García, Huda Mustafa & Chris Seeley, Chelley Bissainthe & Ace Greene, and Olandria Carthen & Nic Vansteenberghe. One of these couples will join the dumped Islanders below.
RELATED: ‘Love Island USA’s Cierra Ortega Addresses Villa Exit Over Racist Post: “I Genuinely Had No Idea That It Was A Slur”
On Episode 34, the Islanders met up with their families ahead of the Season 7 finale. The families gave the Islanders energy to get to that finish line as they gave their take on their journey in the villa.
The Islanders were treated to one final dinner where they would find out if they were going to make it to the finale or if their road to finding love was over.
RELATED: All Of Ariana Madix’s Outfits As Host Of ‘Love Island USA’ Season 7
Who are the couples going to the Love Island USA Season 7 finale?
• Amaya and Bryan • Huda and Chris • Olandria and Nic • Iris and Pepe
Which couple was dumped from Love Island USA Season 7, Episode 34?
Chelley and Ace were dumped from the villa, receiving the fewest votes ahead of the Love Island USA Season 7 finale.
RELATED: Ariana Madix Makes Call To ‘Love Island USA’ Fans To Not Be “Atrocious” To Islanders On Social Media: “Don’t Do That”
When is the Love Island USA Season 7 finale?
America would now vote for their favorite couple to win Love Island USA Season 7, and the results would be revealed on Sunday, July 13.
Scroll through the photo gallery below to meet the Love Island USA Season 7 finalists.
A good Pokemon GO Hisuian Lilligant raid guide will help trainers defeat this monster in the game. The world of GO is always evolving, and July 12, 2025, marks the much-anticipated debut of Hisuian Lilligant in raids. This unique Grass and Fighting-type Pokemon brings a fresh challenge—and a dazzling new Shiny form—to Tier 3 Raids. Whether you’re a seasoned raider or a casual player, this Pokemon GO Hisuian Lilligant raid guide covers everything you need to know to make the most of the Raid Day, from the best counters to event bonuses and tips for catching that elusive Shiny.
Pokemon GO Hisuian Lilligant Raid Day Event Details: When and What to Expect
– Date & Time: Saturday, July 12, 2025, from 2:00 p.m. to 5:00 p.m. local time.– Debut: Hisuian Lilligant makes its first appearance in Pokemon GO raids, with a chance to encounter its Shiny form.– Raid Tier: Tier 3 (soloable by prepared players).
Hisuian Lilligant Raid Day Event Bonuses:
– Up to six free Raid Passes from spinning Gym Photo Discs.– Remote Raid Pass limit increased to 20.– Increased Shiny encounter rate for Hisuian Lilligant.– Special paid ticket ($4.99) for extra Raid Passes, boosted XP, Stardust, and Rare Candy XL for high-level trainers.
Pokemon GO Hisuian Lilligant raid guide: Stats and Weaknesses
*DOUBTFUL X6 STARDUST BONUS FOR HISUIAN LILLIGANT RAID DAY?* WATCH before you play // Pokemon GO
– Type: Grass / Fighting– Max CP: 2883– Attack: 214– Defense: 155– HP: 172– Double Weakness: Flying-type moves (4× damage)– Other Weaknesses: Fairy, Fire, Ice, Poison, Psychic.This double weakness to Flying makes Hisuian Lilligant one of the easiest Tier 3 bosses to counter—if you have the right Pokemon.
Pokemon GO Hisuian Lilligant raid guide: Best counters
Top Flying-Type Attackers:
Pokemon
Fast Move
Charge Move
Mega Rayquaza
Air Slash
Dragon Ascent
Rayquaza
Air Slash
Dragon Ascent
Shadow Staraptor
Gust
Fly
Shadow Moltres
Wing Attack
Sky Attack
Mega Pidgeot
Gust
Brave Bird
Yveltal
Gust
Oblivion Wing
Therian Tornadus
Gust
Bleakwind Storm
Moltres
Wing Attack
Sky Attack
Braviary
Air Slash
Fly
Honchkrow
Peck
Sky Attack
If you have access to Mega Evolutions, Mega Rayquaza and Mega Pidgeot will make short work of Hisuian Lilligant. Even non-shadow, non-mega versions of these Pokemon are more than capable of soloing this raid, thanks to the boss’s double Flying weakness.Pro Tip: Avoid using Grass, Fighting, Ground, Water, Rock, or Electric types—these will be resisted or take neutral damage at best.
Raid Day Strategy: How to Maximize Your Success
– Solo or Group: Hisuian Lilligant is considered an easy solo for trainers with strong Flying-type counters. If you’re lower level or lack top counters, team up with a friend for a quick win.– Weather Boost: Sunny and Cloudy weather will boost Hisuian Lilligant’s CP (up to 1794 for a 100% IV catch), but be cautious—boosted Lilligant hits harder.– Shiny Hunting: The Shiny rate is increased during the event, so do as many raids as possible to maximize your odds.– Resource Management: Use your free and bonus Raid Passes wisely. If you purchase the event ticket, plan your route to hit as many gyms as possible within the three-hour window.
Pokemon GO Hisuian Lilligant raid guide: 100% IVs and perfect CP
– 100% IV CP (No Weather Boost): 1435 CP– 100% IV CP (With Weather Boost): 1794 CPAfter defeating the raid, use Golden Razz Berries and excellent throws to secure your catch—especially if you spot that Shiny sparkle!
Pokemon GO Hisuian Lilligant raid guide: PvP and Meta Relevance
While Hisuian Lilligant is a beautiful addition to your Pokédex, its performance in PvP is currently underwhelming. Its moveset lacks coverage, and it struggles to compete with other Grass/Fighting types like Chesnaught and Virizion. However, it can still beat most meta Water and Ground types in Great League, just not as reliably as its competitors[3].
Entertaining Extras: Fun Facts
– Hisuian Lilligant’s elegant design and dancer-like moves are inspired by traditional Japanese culture.– The Shiny version swaps its green and pink hues for a striking white and orange palette—don’t miss your chance to add this rare beauty to your collection!
Final Tips to defeat Hisuian Lilligant in Pokemon GO
– Bring your best Flyers and enjoy an easy solo challenge.– Take advantage of event bonuses for maximum rewards.– Don’t forget to check your catches for that coveted Shiny!Also read: Pokemon GO Solgaleo Raid Guide (July 2025): Best Counters, Strengths, Weaknesses, and Pro TipsHappy raiding, Trainers—and may your Hisuian Lilligant be both beautiful and battle-ready!
Brazilian soldiers take part in a demonstration exercise ahead of the BRICS Presidential Summit in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil, July 5, 2025. — Reuters
Brics, initially conceived two decades ago as a forumof rapidly developing economies comprising Brazil, Russia, India, China and South Africa, has undergone significant evolution, transcending its original purpose. It is no longer merely a coalition of emerging-market voices. It has transformed into a more ambitious political and economic entity.
Brics is frequently regarded as a Chinese-led counterweight to US and Western European dominance, particularly within institutions such as the IMF, the World Bank and the UN. Following its recent expansion, which includes the admission of new members such as Egypt, Ethiopia, Iran and the UAE in 2024 and Indonesia in January 2025, with Saudi Arabia on the verge of joining, the bloc now represents approximately 46 per cent of the global population and 35-40 per cent of global economic output.
Despite its expanding influence and economic significance, Brics is grappling with internal divisions. The recent 17th Brics summit held in Rio de Janeiro fostered some unity concerning shared global challenges but also revealed profound disagreements on geopolitical matters, trade policies and technology governance. Brics leaders reiterated demands for multipolar global governance and institutional reform, particularly within the UNSCl and international financial structures. Brazil’s finance minister, Fernando Haddad, emphasised the necessity for enhanced representation and equity for Global South members, cautioning that global governance remains disproportionately skewed in favour of affluent northern nations.
In a similar vein, the group urged wealthier nations to adequately fund climate transition initiatives in developing economies, endorsing Brazil’s proposed Tropical Forests Forever Facility with investments from China and the UAE. These policy commitments showed Brazil’s developmental agenda and Brics’ ambition to articulate a vision for sustainable growth within the Global South. However, the bloc’s political cohesion faced challenges on contentious issues such as the conflict in Gaza.
Brics issued a collective appeal for a two-state solution while condemning violence. Nevertheless, Iran – already set to join in 2024 – expressed its reservations through diplomatic channels but refrained from vetoing the joint statement. A notable diplomatic signal reflecting these tensions was the reported absence of Saudi Arabia’s foreign minister, Faisal bin Farhan, from the political discussions. As a principal military ally of the US, Riyadh continues to navigate interests between Western and Brics affiliations, illustrating the complexities new members face in balancing their alliances.
Perhaps most indicative of the bloc’s current dynamics were the absences of Chinese President Xi Jinping and Russian President Vladimir Putin, who are pivotal figures in Brics’ ideological framework. Xi missed the summit for the first time in his 12-year presidency, delegating authority to Premier Li Qiang. Speculation arose that a diplomatic slight, specifically Brazilian First Lady Janja Lula’s public criticism of TikTok during a recent visit to Beijing, may have provoked dissent within Xi’s delegation.
Meanwhile, Putin participated via video link; he utilised the forum to denounce “liberal globalisation” as outdated, asserting that China and other emerging markets represent the future, while reaffirming commitments to utilise national currencies in intra-Brics trade. These prominent absences diminished some of the political impact of the summit and raised pertinent questions regarding Brics’ unity in the face of challenges.
Nonetheless, the group achieved a significant milestone in releasing a joint declaration, a noteworthy accomplishment considering its diverse and rapidly expanding membership, especially following an unsuccessful attempt at consensus earlier in the spring. The expansion to include countries such as Iran and Saudi Arabia has unveiled significant ideological, governance and security divides. Iran’s inclusion poses a fundamental challenge, as its stance on Israel conflicts with the collective call for a two-state solution. Meanwhile, Saudi Arabia’s hesitance in formalising its membership and the foreign minister’s absence from political sessions signal a cautious approach.
Historical rivalries also endure, as exemplified by India’s caution regarding China’s regional influence, particularly in light of ongoing border tensions. The Indian government has been reluctant to endorse initiatives that might undermine its strategic autonomy or adversely affect its domestic interests. Differences relating to UNSC representation, where Brazil and India vie for permanent seats while African members advocate for broader reforms, further complicate the bloc’s internal cohesion.
Despite existing divisions regarding Middle East diplomacy, the members of Brics have demonstrated notable unity on economic matters, particularly in their critique of unilateral tariff measures implemented by the US. The summit declaration articulated “serious concerns regarding the rise of unilateral tariff measures”, reflecting previous grievances regarding erratic trade sanctions during Trump’s presidency.
Although the statement refrained from directly naming him, the intended target was unmistakable: Trump’s unpredictable trade wars inflicted disruptions on global supply chains and contributed to market instability. In response, Trump issued a pointed reaction via social media: “Any country aligning itself with the Anti-American policies of Brics will incur an ADDITIONAL 10 per cent tariff. There will be no exceptions to this policy”. This statement followed earlier threats indicating that the US would impose unilateral tariffs unless trade agreements were secured by August 1, a warning directed at both allies and adversaries.
This confrontation shows a deeper systemic tension: Brics aims to cultivate a multipolar trade environment less vulnerable to US economic coercion, while the US seeks to maintain its global influence by controlling economic access. A pertinent question arises: will the considerable economic strength of Brics currently bolstered by nearly $28 trillion in combined nominal GDP, representing over a quarter of global output and exceeding this figure in purchasing power parity (PPP) be sufficient to offset the financial power exercised through the US dollar?
Within the Brics framework, China distinctly assumes a predominant economic role, accounting for over 60 per cent of the bloc’s combined PPP GDP. This influence is manifested through various strategic initiatives, including the Belt and Road Initiative, the internationalisation of the yuan, financing for digital infrastructure and initial steps towards establishing a Brics-wide digital currency platform. China’s expansion efforts are seen as a validation of its model for a new multipolar world and an alternative international order.
At the Rio summit, China’s strategic posture was particularly evident in two key domains. First, Beijing endorsed calls for equitable governance regarding artificial intelligence, advocating against the dominance of Western technocrats. The summit declaration emphasised that AI regulation should be ‘inclusive’ and should not be restricted to affluent nations. In response to the preeminence of US technology firms in the AI space, China is significantly increasing its investment in domestic AI development to bridge the gap.
Second, China announced preliminary commitments with the UAE and Brazil to invest in environmental conservation initiatives, including Brazil’s Tropical Forests Forever Facility. This effort is part of Beijing’s strategy to enhance its soft power by positioning itself as a responsible global participant while fostering collaboration with partners from the Global South.
Brics is also actively exploring concrete economic tools. The New Development Bank, established in 2014 with an initial capital of $50 billion, plays a central role in financing infrastructure and sustainable development projects within member countries. Intra-Brics trade reached $614.8 billion in 2022, showing a significant increase from prior years. Such expansion is perceived as an opportunity to deepen financial cooperation, which includes enhancing swap lines, increasing lending capacity, and promoting the cross-border utilisation of local currencies, strategies designed to mitigate reliance on the US dollar.
President Putin’s emphasis on national currencies during the video address at the Rio summit reaffirms the aspiration among Brics members to strengthen mutual dependence and effectively navigate trade or financial sanctions. However, substantial challenges remain, including administrative hurdles, liquidity issues and resistance from certain factions within the Global South, raising doubts about the viability of these mechanisms in fully challenging the dollar-centric trade system.
Through the promotion of local currency usage, the fortification of the New Development Bank, and the potential establishment of a unified payment system, Brics could gradually challenge the prevailing dollar-centric economic order. Given that Brics countries accounted for 53.5 per cent of global GDP growth from 2014 to 2024 and are projected to represent nearly 40 per cent of world GDP in 2024, their economic significance is considerable. Nonetheless, systemic logistics, banking norms, and entrenched financial dynamics suggest that transitions will unfold incrementally.
The 2025 Brics summit highlighted the emergence of a significant geopolitical entity capable of transforming global trade and governance frameworks. They represent nearly half of the global population and wield substantial economic influence. To effectively navigate US pressures and adjust trade dynamics, Brics must focus on fostering internal trust and cohesion, developing infrastructure for local currency trade, enhancing the New Development Bank’s lending capacity and establishing critical standards in areas such as artificial intelligence and climate finance.
This involves creating bilateral and multilateral initiatives that can safeguard member states against potential U.S. punitive measures. While US resistance is anticipated through tariffs and sanctions, it is likely to offer trade agreements and strategic assistance to influence nations like Saudi Arabia and Brazil. Engagement in discussions on climate finance or AI within the Brics framework may also be pursued to mitigate external pressures.
Brics’ effectiveness will depend not only on economic indicators but also on strategic patience and the ability to act collectively. If successful in translating its ambitions into concrete actions, Brics could reshape trade dynamics and influence the architecture of global governance.
The writer is a trade facilitation expert, working with the federal government of Pakistan.
PESHAWAR: The Government of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa has officially launched the province’s first Carbon Asset Inventory for its renewable energy portfolio on Friday.
The launch event, held in Peshawar, marks a significant milestone in KP’s journey to access international carbon markets and unlock new pathways for climate finance.
Developed in collaboration with the UK International Development-funded Sustainable Energy and Economic Development (SEED) Programme, the inventory maps renewable energy projects owned by the Pakhtunkhwa Energy Development Organization (PEDO), assessing their potential for carbon credits and International Renewable Energy Certificates (I-RECs).
Speaking at the event, the Chief Minister of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa Ali Amin Khan Gandapur stated that this initiative is a bold testament to KP’s leadership in climate action. It demonstrates our resolve to expand clean energy solutions, attract green finance, and ensure that the benefits of sustainability are equitably shared among our people.”
The Chief Minister termed the launch of the Carbon Asset Inventory as a historic moment, stating that this step is evidence that our province is ready to align with global environmental goals. He said this initiative also reflects the government’s commitment to adopting market-based mechanisms for sustainable economic development. He appreciated the collaboration between PEDO and the SEED Programme, stating that it was through the collective efforts of all stakeholders that the province’s first Carbon Asset Inventory was made possible.
Ali Amin Gandapur stated that this inventory is a modern tool that maps PEDO’s renewable energy projects and establishes a carbon emissions baseline, enabling PEDO to quantify the emissions it has saved. He added that this initiative will pave the way for the province’s access to the international renewable energy market and will also lay the foundation for promoting climate financing in the province. The CM expressed his determination to fully benefit from climate financing opportunities to promote green energy solutions in the province and to make this approach a permanent part of his development strategy.
Ali Amin Gandapur said the province has special potential in renewable energy, with multiple projects under implementation by PEDO and several others in the pipeline. He termed the agreement between PEDO and PAT as a milestone, under which the renewable energy potential will be effectively utilized for the province’s economic stability. He stated that economic self-reliance and environmental sustainability are among the top priorities of his government, and for this purpose, focus is being given to the development of all sectors with untapped potential.
Earlier, briefing the participants about the outcomes of newly launched inventory, the authorities told that the Carbon Asset Inventory evaluates PEDO’s hydropower and solar portfolio against leading carbon credit standards-Verra, Gold Standard, and the Global Carbon Council (GCC) and finds that 8 projects are eligible for Verra, 13 for Gold Standard, and 37 for GCC, while the entire portfolio qualifies for I-RECs. Collectively, these projects could avoid 5.4 million tonnes of CO2 emissions annually and generate up to 11.9 million I-RECs, creating a significant opportunity for revenue through carbon markets.
In a major step forward, PEDO also signed an agreement today with the Pakistan Environment Trust (PET) to register with Evident, the global I-REC registry. This positions KP to formally enter international renewable energy markets, with five projects being registered in the first phase.
