Bacon1

Thousands of hoverflies (often mistaken for bees) have been repeatedly observed landing on offshore oil rigs in the North Sea, remaining stationary for hours before abruptly taking off. This curious behaviour, documented by an engineer and later studied by researchers at the University of Exeter, points to a striking migration pattern. Analysis of pollen on the insects indicates they carry pollen from more than 100 plant species, and trajectory modelling suggests some flew over 300 miles from mainland Europe to the offshore rigs. The rigs thus act as temporary “rest stops” during long-haul insect migrations. The discovery adds to growing evidence that hoverflies are significant long-distance pollinators, potentially contributing to gene flow between far-flung plant populations. Future research aims to determine whether the pollen they transport remains viable and can contribute to pollination upon arrival. Key Takeaways: Hoverflies land en masse on North Sea oil rigs, linger for hours and then depart—suggesting the rigs function as stop-over sites mid-sea. The insects carry diverse pollen (100+ plant species), and wind‐trajectory analysis shows they travelled hundreds of miles from mainland Europe. This behaviour highlights hoverflies’ role as long‐distance pollinators and raises questions about their contribution to gene flow and ecosystem resilience. Original Source: https://theconversation.com/thousands-of-flies-keep-landing-on-north-sea-oil-rigs-then-taking-off-a-few-hours-later-heres-why-265622

Former French President Nicolas Sarkozy is set to enter prison after being handed a five-year sentence for criminal conspiracy linked to alleged funding from Muammar Gaddafi’s Libyan regime. The conviction marks the first time a former head of an EU member state will serve time in jail, and makes Sarkozy the first post-war French leader to be incarcerated. The court found the case to be of “exceptional gravity”, citing the risk of undermining citizens’ trust in public institutions. Although Sarkozy denies wrongdoing and plans to appeal, the nature of his prison term means he must report to the gates of La Santé Prison in Paris early on Tuesday morning. He has asked for no special treatment behind bars. While inside, Sarkozy, 70, is expected to be in an individual cell under solitary-confinement conditions, with restricted phone access, no mobile device, daily one-hour outdoor time under guard, and two family visits per week. He has packed three books and family photographs in preparation. In legal terms, this powerfully signals that no one is above the law. The case also dovetails with Sarkozy’s prior legal troubles: he was previously convicted in two other separate cases and lost France’s highest honour, the Legion of Honour. Key Takeaways: Sarkozy receives a five-year prison term for criminal conspiracy over Libyan election funding. He becomes the first former EU head of state to serve jail time, setting a precedent. Despite the appeal, the sentence starts immediately; prison conditions will be strict and solitary. Original Source: The Guardian – “Nicolas Sarkozy to enter prison for criminal conspiracy over Libyan funding”

Comment on Moderation removed @Will B Good

Aspirin is no longer made from Willow bark, therefore not natural. Aspirin (acetylsalicylic acid): Manufactured industrially by esterifying Salicylic acid with acetic anhydride (using an acid catalyst such as sulfuric or phosphoric acid) to yield aspirin and acetic acid; then the mixture is cooled/crystallised, filtered, washed and dried. https://www.chemanalyst.com/NewsAndDeals/NewsDetails/inside-the-chemistry-industrial-production-process-of-aspirin-38477?utm_source=chatgpt.com

Not a recommendation, just for information. https://www.pkhealthcare.co.th/category/1302/เครื่อง-cpap-resmed?gad_source=1&gad_campaignid=16505913068&gclid=CjwKCAjwmNLHBhA4EiwA3ts3mXwhvqILK-vDvKPSPFyhQs5ygxOe9SHMZoYs37xWDnUZKGQIJKcrvhoCaWEQAvD_BwE

There's also a Facebook group. https://www.facebook.com/groups/MGSupportGroup/?ref=share&mibextid=NSMWBT

That well-known Greek philosopher Nikandros Telomenes, who claimed the soul emitted measurable vibrations and attempted to prove it using copper rods and goat’s blood, once said: “The answer lies in the soil.” Went on to be a "South Western Doctor", apparently.

@Jeff the Chef Post edited. 8. You will not post vulgarities, obscenities or profanities.

A major reorganisation is expected at the upcoming plenum of the Chinese Communist Party (CCP) Central Committee in Beijing, signalling a strengthening of Xi Jinping’s hold on power. The four-day meeting of the 205-member Central Committee will not only outline China’s next five-year development plan but appears poised to feature a sweeping purge of key officials. Analysts forecast up to 15 committee members will be dismissed or replaced — some from the military — as Xi moves to reinforce his dominance. In recent days the Ministry of Defence announced the removal of nine top generals’ party and PLA posts, marking one of the largest known military crackdowns in decades. The upcoming agenda includes finalising China’s 15th five-year plan which targets sectors such as AI, semiconductors and clean energy, while preparing for politically symbolic milestones in 2027, 2029 and 2030. Given that Xi is midway through his third term, many observers expect he will not yet name a successor — as doing so might weaken his grip. While the official reason for the purges is framed as part of an anti-corruption drive, experts say the timing and scale suggest a broader strategy to eliminate rivals and institutionalise loyalty. The opaque nature of China’s internal decision-making means exact details will likely emerge only after the meeting concludes. Key Takeaways: 1. Up to 15 senior officials in the CCP Central Committee are expected to be purged or replaced at the upcoming plenum. 2. The meeting will finalise China’s next five-year plan, with a focus on strategic sectors and key political anniversaries. 3. Xi Jinping appears to be consolidating personal control rather than announcing a successor, signalling a more centralised leadership model. Original source: https://www.abc.net.au/news/2025-10-18/xi-inner-circle-major-shakeup-ccp-meeting-beijing/105885472

A so-called ceasefire in Gaza has proven far more precarious than headlines suggested. Hours after global leaders celebrated a moment of calm, Israeli forces opened fire on Palestinians, citing “security concerns”. The immediate return to violence casts doubt on the effectiveness of diplomatic declarations and highlights the enduring gap between political theatre and ground reality. In Jerusalem yesterday, Donald Trump presented himself as the peace-broker, pledging reconstruction and prosperity in Gaza. But the fresh violence undermines such high-profile promises, signalling that rebuilding rubble-strewn infrastructure and hospital systems will be far harder than optimistic speeches suggest. On the domestic front in the UK, Keir Starmer’s Labour government issued cautious statements about international law and humanitarian relief — sympathetic, yet diplomatically restrained. The tension is clear: overt criticism of Israel may alienate key supporters; silence risks moral condemnation. Meanwhile, Western publics appear increasingly uneasy. The same governments that brand themselves defenders of human rights are still exporting arms and offering military backing without meaningful shifts on the ground. The recent shootings in Gaza aren’t isolated. They’re symptoms of a larger systemic failure — wherein peace processes become rehearsed acts, lacking moral clarity and leaving civilians trapped between geopolitical narratives and actual survival. Unless honesty and accountability replace symbolism, the promise of peace in Gaza will remain a performance rather than a breakthrough. Key Takeaways: The ceasefire in Gaza is fragile; renewed violence exposes the limitations of diplomatic pledges. Political leadership (US, UK, others) continues staging peace-summits, but on-the-ground rebuilding remains stalled. Western aid and military support send mixed signals: humanitarian gestures coexist with arms exports, provoking public disillusionment. Original source: Politics UK – “Beyond the Ceasefire: Charting a Turbulent New Era in Gaza”

Former UK Prime Minister John Major argues that the “Make America Great Again” (MAGA)-era foreign and trade policies of the Donald Trump administration are actively undermining the United States’ once-solid global standing. In his lecture, Major notes that post-war America championed liberty, human rights and a rules-based international order — an approach that asked for no direct gain, but aimed to uphold a freer, safer world. Today, however, Major contends, the U.S. has veered towards self-interest: suspending vital aid, imposing aggressive tariffs and alienating allies. For instance, U.S. foreign-aid contributions once prevented millions of deaths annually — a “quiet achievement” that Major sees as under threat from recent cutbacks. Similarly, the administration’s trade strategy, which includes heavy tariffs on imports from allies and developing nations alike, sends a message that big power trumps cooperation. Major describes this as “bullying” by another name and warns it risks corroding trust in the U.S. as a reliable partner. Major warns that unpredictability in U.S. policy weakens the rules-based order that has underpinned global relations since WWII. Allies may now fear unpredictability, smaller countries may lose negotiating leverage, and the perception of America’s leadership — once based on values, now seen as transactional — suffers as a result. Key Takeaways: 1. The U.S. shift away from altruistic global leadership (aid, human rights) damages its moral authority on the world stage. 2. Trade policies oriented around self-interest and tariffs risk branding the U.S. as a bully rather than a partner. 3. Unpredictable foreign policy from the U.S. undermines the rules-based international system and erodes trust among allies and smaller states. Original source: https://observer.co.uk/news/columnists/article/maga-is-damaging-americas-reputation

A major fire broke out in the afternoon at the scaffolding of Chinachem Tower, located in Hong Kong’s Central district, prompting a No. 3 alarm from the Hong Kong Fire Services Department. The blaze began within the external scaffoldings of the high-rise office building during renovation works, rapidly spreading across multiple levels. Firefighters were dispatched promptly, evacuating the building and focusing on protecting adjacent structures in the dense business area. Four people were taken to hospital: at least two with smoke inhalation and two with possible minor burns, according to authorities. No fatalities have been reported. The exact cause of ignition remains under investigation — initial reports indicate welding or cutting equipment may have sparked the fire, but the investigation is ongoing. Traffic at nearby roads was temporarily diverted and commercial activity in the immediate vicinity was disrupted as a safety perimeter was enforced. Local businesses were asked to temporarily suspend operations while the structure was secured and inspected. Fire crews brought the fire under control after around one hour, and as of the latest update, they are working on cooling hot spots and safe dismantling of charred scaffold components. Occupational safety concerns have been raised given the fire’s location on external scaffolding. The incident adds urgency to calls for stricter oversight of construction-related fire risks in Hong Kong’s high-density urban environment. Property management and building contractors are likely to face more scrutiny, especially regarding hot-work permits and fire-resistant materials for temporary structures. Key Takeaways: A No. 3 alarm fire engulfed scaffolding at Chinachem Tower in Hong Kong Central; four people were hospitalised. The fire may have been triggered during welding/cutting work, highlighting risks around scaffolded external renovation sites. Disruption in the Central business district followed, and the event has renewed focus on construction-site fire safety in dense urban settings. Adapted From: https://www.thestandard.com.hk/hong-kong-news/article/314488/No-3-alarm-fire-engulfs-scaffolding-at-Centrals-Chinachem-Tower-four-hospitalized

Flame post removed @Toby1947 9. You will not post disruptive or inflammatory messages. You will respect other members and post in a civil manner. Personal attacks, insults or hate speech posted on the forum or sent by private message are not allowed.

Flame post removed @Jeff the Chef 9. You will not post disruptive or inflammatory messages. You will respect other members and post in a civil manner. Personal attacks, insults or hate speech posted on the forum or sent by private message are not allowed.

This year marks the 85th anniversary of The Great Dictator, Charlie Chaplin’s bold satire targeting Adolf Hitler and fascism. In 1940, Chaplin — then a global icon — risked backlash by self-financing the picture, since studios hesitated while the U.S. maintained business ties with Nazi Germany. He used his uncanny physical resemblance to Hitler to play both a ruthless dictator: “Adenoid Hynkel,”🤣 and a humble Jewish barber mistaken for him. The film culminates in a direct, impassioned speech condemning hate, war, and extremism. Chaplin’s dual role and biting parody were groundbreaking. Fans and critics were stunned: his comedic approach to tyranny was unprecedented. Though some dismissed the final speech as overly idealistic, many saw it as a courageous act of cinematic protest. In later years, Chaplin faced scrutiny from U.S. officials like J. Edgar Hoover and Senator McCarthy for perceived leftist sympathies. Still, The Great Dictator remains a cultural milestone showing how humour, when wielded fearlessly, can confront darkness. Key Takeaways 1. High stakes in controversy – Chaplin acted on political conviction, risking his fame to produce a film satirising Hitler when studios balked. 2. Dual character cleverness – He plays both dictator and barber, turning resemblance and mistaken identity into an anti-fascist tool. 3. Enduring message – The closing speech remains a rallying call for empathy and unity in times of division. Adapted From https://www.npr.org/2025/10/15/nx-s1-5554555/the-great-dictator-charlie-chaplin-anniversary-hitler

On 2 October 2025, during Yom Kippur, a man drove a car into worshippers outside the Heaton Park Hebrew Congregation in Crumpsall, Manchester, then exited to carry out a knife attack. The assailant, later identified as Jihad al-Shamie, was shot dead by police within minutes. Two worshippers died — Melvin Cravitz and Adrian Daulby (the latter mortally wounded by police gunfire) — and several others were severely injured. This act, officially treated as a terrorist attack, has reignited long-standing fears in the British Jewish community about rising antisemitism. Community voices say warning signs were ignored, and that Jews have increasingly felt under threat in a country once viewed as a safe space. The attacker, a 35-year-old British citizen born in Syria, had no known ties with security services or extremist programmes prior to the attack. Government response was swift: Prime Minister Keir Starmer returned from abroad to lead a COBRA meeting and promised enhanced security at Jewish sites nationwide. Parliament condemned the attack, and leaders called for urgent action against antisemitism in universities, health services, and public institutions. For many in Manchester’s Jewish community, this tragedy affirmed core fears: that what they’d long regarded as unthinkable could happen in their own city, and that the safeguards they once trusted might not be enough. Key Takeaways 1. Targeted terror on sacred day — The attack occurred on Yom Kippur, highlighting its symbolic as well as physical violence against Jews. 2. Rising community unease — Manchester’s Jewish residents say the attack confirmed deep anxieties about safety and visibility in Britain. 3. Calls for institutional accountability — The government and public institutions now face pressure to act meaningfully on antisemitism rather than issuing statements. Adapted From https://theconversation.com/synagogue-attack-the-manchester-i-know-by-antisemitism-researcher-and-mancunian-jew-266712

Prince Andrew has announced he will stop using all his royal titles—including Duke of York, Earl of Inverness, and Baron Killyleagh—after consultation with King Charles and family, though he technically retains them under law. While his name will remain “Prince Andrew,” he has relinquished honours like Knight Grand Cross of the Royal Victorian Order and Royal Knight Companion of the Order of the Garter. He explained that continued public controversy surrounding allegations against him has become a distraction from the royal family’s work. He reaffirmed his denial of the accusations. Under the new arrangement, Sarah Ferguson (his ex-wife) will stop using the Duchess of York title. Their daughters, Princess Beatrice and Princess Eugenie, will keep theirs. Although the dukedom remains legally his, this change is symbolic: it distances Andrew from active roles in the monarchy’s public face. Reports suggest the palace had reached a “tipping point” over reputational risk. The decision comes amid renewed scrutiny of his ties to Jeffrey Epstein and claims made in a forthcoming memoir by Virginia Giuffre. Critics argue that the monarchy must address legal mechanisms to strip titles in future, possibly using a parliamentary bill proposed by MP Rachael Maskell. Key Takeaways: 1. Title relinquishment symbolic, not legal: Andrew will no longer use his royal honours, though the dukedom remains under legislation. 2. Royal family management move: The change responds to pressure inside and outside the palace over reputational damage. 3. Broader implications: The episode intensifies debate over whether royal titles should be removable by law. Adapted From https://www.theguardian.com/uk-news/2025/oct/17/prince-andrew-to-give-up-royal-titles

Two troll posts removed @MalcolmB

Post removed @MalcolmB Discuss the thread topic & not other members.

Exactly what Neurological activity was observed? It doesn't say in your link.

Topic is already running. Thread closed

A distasteful post has been removed @Watawattana

A major blaze tore through a shop in Forest Hill, Lewisham, London on the evening of October 16, 2025, prompting a dramatic emergency response. The London Fire Brigade (LFB) dispatched 15 fire engines and around 100 firefighters, racing to contain towering flames that lit up the night sky. The first alert came in at 6:27 pm, and by then, thick black smoke had begun billowing from the site. Eyewitness footage showed fire crews deploying a 32-metre turntable ladder to douse the inferno from above. Nearby buildings were evacuated — about 15 residents were relocated to safety, though no injuries have been confirmed. Fire services established a 25-metre cordon, warning locals to keep windows and doors closed to guard against smoke infiltration. The blaze was brought under control approximately 5 hours later, around 11:45 pm, but crews remained at the scene late into the night. Disruption spread: Forest Hill tube station was shut down and traffic snarled along the A205 South Circular Road. The fire’s origin is still unknown — investigators have launched inquiries to determine what sparked the inferno. Authorities continue to monitor the area and reassure residents while assessing property damage. Key Takeaways 1. 100 firefighters deployed — a heavy emergency response to a large shop fire in Forest Hill. 2. Evacuations and road closures — 15 residents evacuated; Forest Hill station and A205 disrupted. 3. No injuries reported, cause unknown — thankfully no casualties, but investigators still probing origin. Adapted From: https://www.thesun.co.uk/news/37035425/blaze-rips-shop-locals-urged-avoid-area/

After more than two centuries with no wolves, Denmark is witnessing their return — mostly to the Jutland peninsula — sparking both excitement among conservationists and concern among rural communities. Wolves vanished in Denmark around 1813, driven to extinction by extensive hunting. Reports and DNA evidence now show that wolves are crossing over from Germany and establishing small packs. By 2024, estimates suggest around 40 adult wolves live in Denmark, forming at least eight breeding pairs. The government has granted full protection status to wolves and established compensation schemes for livestock owners affected by wolf predation. But coexistence is proving tricky. Some farmers worry about livestock losses, and local critics question whether the economic burden on rural areas is being fairly addressed. Conservationists argue wolves are an essential part of ecosystem health — regulating prey species and fostering biodiversity. Their return aligns with broader European trends: wolf populations across Europe have expanded by roughly 60 % in past decades. While enthusiasm is high among wildlife advocates, not everyone shares that optimism. In Denmark, some communities feel overlooked in the planning of compensation, safety protocols, and local consultation. As Denmark adjusts, the push-pull between ecological restoration and human livelihoods is becoming the central tension. The question now is whether Danish authorities, locals and conservation groups can build policies and practices that let wolves thrive — without leaving farmers bearing the cost. Key Takeaways 1. Wolves reappear after 200 years – Around 40 adults now roam Denmark, mostly in Jutland. 2. Farmers voice frustration – Livestock losses and limited compensation cause rural backlash. 3. Balancing act ahead – Denmark must reconcile conservation success with community concerns. Adapted From: https://theconversation.com/wolves-have-returned-to-denmark-and-not-everyone-is-happy-about-it-266276

Volodymyr Zelenskyy is slated to visit the White House following signals from Donald Trump about a renewed summit with Vladimir Putin in Budapest. The possible delivery of US Tomahawk cruise missiles to Ukraine is expected to dominate their discussions. Trump has floated the idea in recent weeks—if supplied, Tomahawks would extend Ukraine’s reach, potentially allowing strikes on Moscow itself. Yet Trump’s tone is inconsistent: after raising the possibility with Putin, he questioned whether the US can afford to send missiles, citing the need to retain stockpiles. His hesitation has roused concern in Europe, where critics fear Trump might backslide under pressure from Moscow. From the Kremlin’s perspective, talk of Tomahawks is seen by some as a bargaining chip rather than a firm commitment. Russia has warned that supplying such long-range systems would mark a “qualitatively new stage of escalation.” Analysts note that even if delivered, the number of available missiles and compatible launchers would be limited—Ukraine lacks the naval platforms typically used for Tomahawk deployment. As Zelenskyy arrives in Washington, he faces the dual task of convincing Trump and managing geopolitical backlash from Moscow. His push for advanced strike capabilities signals Kyiv’s willingness to ratchet up pressure, while European allies watch warily. The Budapest summit could either thaw or exacerbate tensions—depending on whether Trump’s missile rhetoric moves toward action or remains political theatre. Key Takeaways The likely supply of Tomahawk cruise missiles will be central to Zelenskyy’s meeting with Trump. Trump’s mixed messaging over missile delivery has stirred fear among European partners of possible U.S. retreat. The Kremlin views talk of Tomahawks as escalation; logistical constraints may limit Ukraine’s ability to use them. Adapted From: https://www.theguardian.com/world/2025/oct/16/zelenskyy-tomahawk-missiles-trump-putin-budapest