Bacon1

A new Guardian investigation indicates that Israel may have deployed widely condemned cluster munitions during its 13-month war with Hezbollah in southern Lebanon. Photographs of munition fragments found in three forested valleys—south of the Litani River—were analyzed by six independent arms experts, who identified remnants of two distinct Israeli weapons: the 155 mm M999 Barak Eitan and the 227 mm Ra’am Eitan guided missile. These munitions are designed to scatter many smaller bomblets over a broad area, posing a serious long-term threat when some fail to explode. Although Israel is not a signatory to the 2008 Convention on Cluster Munitions, these weapons remain controversial due to their indiscriminate impact. If confirmed, this would mark the first verified use of cluster bombs by Israel since the 2006 Lebanon war, when up to a million unexploded submunitions remained in southern Lebanon. Israel has neither confirmed nor denied the recent use, but has maintained it uses only “lawful weapons” and takes steps to mitigate civilian harm. Human rights groups warn that even “improved” versions of cluster munitions still carry high humanitarian risks, especially for civilians in contaminated areas. Key Takeaways: Photographic evidence and expert analysis suggest Israel used two types of cluster munitions—M999 Barak Eitan and Ra’am Eitan—in southern Lebanon. Cluster munitions scatter dangerous submunitions (“bomblets”) that may fail to detonate, posing long-term risks to civilians. This would be Israel’s first confirmed use of such weapons in nearly 20 years, reigniting concerns over violations of international humanitarian norms. Adapted From https://www.theguardian.com/world/2025/nov/19/israel-used-widely-banned-cluster-munitions-in-lebanon-photos-of-remnants-suggest

A comprehensive global analysis finds that chronic kidney disease (CKD) has ballooned to an estimated 788 million cases in 2023, up from 378 million in 1990 — placing kidney disease among the top causes of death worldwide. Researchers from NYU Langone Health, University of Glasgow and Institute for Health Metrics and Evaluation (IHME) co-led the study, which draws on health data from 133 countries and 2,230 scientific publications. Despite available advances in treatment, the report finds that early-stage disease often goes undiagnosed — especially in low- and middle-income regions — because kidney damage typically shows few symptoms until a late stage. The condition is closely linked with diabetes, high blood pressure and obesity, and is now responsible for about 1.5 million deaths in 2023 alone. Alarmingly, CKD is now estimated to account for around 12 % of global cardiovascular deaths and to rank as the 12th leading cause of disability worldwide. The World Health Organization recently added CKD to its priority list, but access to dialysis and kidney transplantation remains severely limited in many regions of Sub-Saharan Africa, Southeast Asia and Latin America. The authors stress that early detection (via simple urine testing) and lifestyle modifications could slow the disease’s progression — yet global progress is uneven. Key Takeaways: The global burden of chronic kidney disease has more than doubled since 1990, reaching nearly 800 million cases and becoming a major public-health threat. Early-stage CKD is often silent and under-diagnosed; risk factors include diabetes, hypertension and obesity, while treatment is scarce in many developing regions. CKD contributes significantly to cardiovascular deaths and disability — reinforcing the need for early screening, improved access to care and global intervention strategies. Adapted From https:/www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2025/11/251117095646.htm

Flame removed Community Standards Be polite and respectful to other users. Do not post defamatory, offensive, or discriminatory content. @Alpha84 Reply removed

A particularly offensive video with a nasty comment, has been removed. Not clever. Not funny @Alpha84 43. You will not post graphic or explicit images. ASEAN NOW strives to maintain a respectful and safe online environment for all community members.

Plenty of fish in the sea. But, getting the right one, takes time. Don't give up, be cool, let her come to you.

Flame removed You were asked a valid question. @Red Phoenix A reply was removed

@SunnyinBangrak Comment about Biden removed

Norman Irwin BEM, a Second World War veteran from Coleraine, celebrated his 107th birthday on November 17 with a heartwarming gathering at Killowen House. The party brought together family, friends, and military representatives to honor his long life and remarkable service. During the event, held at Killowen House, Pipe Major Alan Taggart of the 2nd Royal Irish regiment accompanied Norman as he cut his birthday cake. In a touching tradition, Norman raised a toast using a quaich and took a sip of his favourite — Bushmills whiskey. Displayed at the celebration were treasured documents from his wartime service: his Enlistment Certificate from April 1939 and his Release Leave Certificate, dated October 1, 1946. The release certificate carried a powerful commendation, acknowledging him as “one of the finest all-round tradesmen” for his outstanding skills as a welder, machinist, blacksmith, vehicle mechanic, electrician, and NCO. Norman was one of the founding members of the Royal Electrical and Mechanical Engineers (REME) when it was formed in 1942, and he remains among the very few of the original 14 still alive. At the party, Colonel Iain Wallace of REME paid tribute, calling Norman “a legend of the corps” and part of its living history. Also in attendance were prominent figures: Alison Millar, HM Lord Lieutenant of County Londonderry; David Johnston, Northern Ireland Veterans Commissioner; and Colonel RJ Laird, President of the REME Association NI. Norman’s grandson, Christopher Irwin, spoke on behalf of the family, sharing heartfelt thanks. Earlier this year, Norman was awarded the British Empire Medal by Princess Anne at Hillsborough Castle in recognition of his military and community service. At 107 years old, Norman Irwin stands as a powerful symbol of dedication, resilience, and living history. Key Takeaways: Norman Irwin, a WWII veteran and one of the original founding members of REME, celebrated his 107th birthday in Coleraine surrounded by family and military dignitaries. At the gathering, he shared a traditional toast with Bushmills whiskey, and wartime certificates recognizing his technical skills were prominently displayed. Honoured with a British Empire Medal earlier this year, Norman remains a respected elder and a living link to REME's founding history. Adapted From https://www.northernirelandworld.com/news/people/watch-coleraine-man-norman-irwin-celebrates-his-107th-birthday-in-style-5405765

"Excuse me is the five minute Argument or the half hour? Oh, just the five minute Thank you anyway, I did tell you" Cleese & Chapman.

#1 She’s had a rich boyfriend before, and now she’s saying she wants a car. Just be careful with your heart. Stay interested, but cool down a bit. Watch how she talks and behaves over the next 24 hours — that will tell you what you need to know.

Is it a new post from her?

Meme removed

During a high-profile White House meeting on November 18, 2025, Donald Trump defended Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman, downplaying the 2018 killing of journalist Jamal Khashoggi. Despite U.S. intelligence assessments that linked the crown prince to the assassination, Trump insisted he “knew nothing about it,” calling Khashoggi “extremely controversial” and dismissing questions about the murder as unnecessary. He said, “things happen,” and criticized a reporter for raising the issue during the meeting. The visit was marked by pomp and investment promises: Saudi Arabia pledged up to $1 trillion in U.S. investments, and Trump announced plans to sell “top-of-the-line” F‑35 stealth fighter jets to Riyadh, sparking concern in Israel and within U.S. intelligence circles. Trump also pushed for deeper diplomatic ties, discussing a possible normalization agreement between Saudi Arabia and Israel tied to a two-state solution. Meanwhile, he denied any conflict between his family’s business ties and Saudi interests, saying he has stepped back from his family’s business operations. --- Key Takeaways: Trump dismissed U.S. intelligence linking Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman to Khashoggi’s murder, calling the investigative findings speculative. A major part of the White House visit focused on economic and defense cooperation, including a potential deal for F‑35 fighter jets and $1 trillion in Saudi investment. The meeting also touched on diplomatic ambitions: normalization with Israel and cooperation on a two-state solution for Palestinians. Adapted From https://www.theguardian.com/us-news/2025/nov/18/trump-bin-salman-visit-jamal-khashoggi

Flame post removed @TheAppletons Reply removed

When's the next date?

@advancebooking Removed impolite sentences. Forum Rules & Community Standards Be polite and respectful to other users.

Nope, not fake. DT flew the whole crew to Washington to video it. 1763451183858.mp4

@Stiddle Mump @Red Phoenix It would be valuable to understand the criteria by which you assess the competence of doctors and scientists, and how you distinguish those who are genuinely knowledgeable from those who are not. For instance, in the case of a fractured leg treated in A&E, the standard procedure often involves the application of a plate with screws — a practice established as the most effective approach through rigorous experimentation. Similarly, controlled studies are used to determine optimal treatments for patients across various medical contexts. The field of orthopaedics, like other scientific disciplines, relies heavily on empirical research, peer-reviewed publications, and continuous evaluation of outcomes. According to you two though, science publications are worthless & all are firmly in the grip of the "tyrannical" 😅 pharmaceutical companies. Are you asserting that all such evidence-based practices are invalid, or that only specific subsets of medical professionals and researchers are deficient? Please clarify which practitioners and scientists you consider to be - using your words: 'corrupt' 'dumb'or 'know nothing'. Specify which you regard as competent and reliable.

In a groundbreaking space-tech feat, China has successfully transmitted data at 1 gigabit per second (Gbps) using a faint 2-watt laser from a satellite positioned in geostationary orbit, roughly 36,000 km above Earth. That speed is reportedly five times faster than what Starlink delivers, even though Starlink satellites operate much closer — around 550 km above Earth. The breakthrough comes from a team of Chinese scientists at Peking University and the Chinese Academy of Sciences, who developed a system combining adaptive optics (AO) with mode diversity reception (MDR), dubbed AO-MDR synergy. Adaptive optics help correct signal distortion caused by the atmosphere, while MDR captures scattered laser light — working together to maintain clarity across the long distance. Their signal was split into eight channels using a multi-plane light converter, and a real-time algorithm selected the clearest paths, boosting transmission stability. In tests at the Lijiang Observatory, this setup dramatically improved the usable signal rate — from 72% to 91.1% — according to reports. Unlike radio-frequency (RF) systems that power downlinks with hundreds of watts, this laser-based method uses very little energy (just 2 W), yet still achieves high speeds over enormous distances. The low-power, high-speed nature of this tech could shake up satellite internet — offering a leaner, more efficient alternative to the dense low-Earth-orbit (LEO) constellations like Starlink. Beyond civilian broadband, this laser communication method has defense and space exploration implications, including deep-space mission telemetry, encrypted military comms, and high-bandwidth links to distant satellites. While scaling up for full deployment will be a challenge (especially building GEO satellites with precision optical payloads), China’s demonstration offers a clear glimpse into the future of space-based internet. Key Takeaways China used a 2-watt laser from a geostationary satellite to achieve 1 Gbps, far exceeding current Starlink speeds. Their AO-MDR synergy system corrects atmospheric distortion and recovers weak laser signals, boosting reliability. This breakthrough could transform satellite communications, enabling low-power, high-speed global internet and advancing space defense capabilities. Adapted From https://dailygalaxy.com/2025/11/chinese-satellite-crushes-starlink-2-watt-laser-fired-in-space/

Learn as much as you can about your girlfriend’s mother’s medical issues. Use that knowledge to help your girlfriend understand them too. By guiding her through it, she’ll feel supported and the two of you will bond more deeply. As she works through this with you, you’ll gain insight into how she thinks, what she feels, and what matters most to her.

Meme with no comment removed

Researchers at the University of Missouri have made a promising breakthrough in the fight against glaucoma, a leading cause of irreversible vision loss. According to a new study, two naturally occurring molecules — agmatine and thiamine (vitamin B1) — could serve as both early biomarkers for the disease and protect the nerve cells in the eye. The study found that levels of agmatine and thiamine are significantly reduced in the eye fluid of glaucoma patients. By testing 19 glaucoma sufferers and 10 healthy individuals, scientists screened for 135 metabolites and identified these two as especially depleted. In lab experiments with mice, supplementing these molecules had a powerful effect: inflammation in the retina dropped, and retinal ganglion nerve cells — the same nerve cells damaged in glaucoma — survived and functioned better. This not only suggests a way to slow down, but possibly reverse the nerve cell damage caused by glaucoma. Currently, treatments for glaucoma mostly focus on lowering eye pressure, but such approaches only slow damage rather than restore lost vision. This discovery could shift the paradigm — toward neuroprotective therapy that actually shields or rescues nerve cells. The long-term vision for these findings? One day, doctors might be able to run a simple blood test to check for agmatine and thiamine levels. Early detection would mean early intervention — ideally before major vision loss begins. While more study is essential before this can become a human treatment, the research offers real hope for preventing glaucoma’s devastating effects. Key Takeaways Biomarker Potential: Agmatine and thiamine levels are lower in glaucoma patients and may be used for early detection. Neuroprotective Effects: Supplementing these molecules in animal models reduces inflammation and protects critical retinal nerve cells. Vision for the Future: A simple blood test could help diagnose glaucoma earlier, enabling preventative or restorative treatment before serious vision loss. Adapted From https://www.sciencealert.com/new-breakthrough-could-help-prevent-the-devastating-impact-of-glaucoma

And.... bridesmaids....? Who might you suggest?

Here's a link to the original poem, translated to English. https://plagueanthology.com/2020/07/24/ibn-al-wardi-on-the-advance-of-plague-1348/?utm_source=chatgpt.com

A recent Lowy Institute poll reveals shifting geopolitical views among Australians: worries about the United States are on the rise, even as trust in China remains weak. According to the survey, only about 36–56 percent of Australians trust Washington to act responsibly on the world stage, marking a steep drop. Despite diminishing trust, most Australians still see their alliance with the U.S. as crucial to national security. On the China front, attitudes are complicated. Australian views have softened slightly: around half now see China more as an economic partner than a direct security threat, but 69 percent still believe China could become a military menace in the next two decades. Many respondents favor deterring China militarily while also calling for pressure on human-rights issues. Additionally, a significant portion of Australians expect China to overtake the U.S. in terms of global power: more than half believe China will be the dominant superpower in the next decade, while only a quarter say the same about the U.S. The poll also shows persistent concern about cyberattacks and regional conflict, especially involving Taiwan. Key Takeaways: Trust in the U.S. is falling sharply, yet the Australian–American security alliance remains central to Australia’s sense of safety. While views on China are becoming more nuanced, a large majority still consider it a potential long-term military threat. Adapted From https://theconversation.com/australians-are-markedly-more-worried-about-the-us-still-wary-about-china-new-poll-268209