The latest Nature Index reveals Chinese institutions dominate the top 10 global research contributors, with eight of the leading spots held by Chinese universities and research bodies, outranking their U.S. counterparts except Harvard. This stark shift, compared to a decade ago when only one Chinese institution featured, signals challenges for U.S. science and technology leadership. Observers liken this to a new 'Sputnik moment,' raising urgency around federal research funding cuts and policy changes that may undermine America's scientific preeminence and innovation capacity.