Maine News (2025)

22/05/2024

New Study Finds Microplastics in Human Testicles

WASHINGTON, D.C. — A recent study published in the journal Toxicological Sciences has revealed that microplastics were present in every human testicle examined, raising significant concerns about the impact on the male reproductive system. The research was conducted by a team at the University of New Mexico, who analyzed 23 human and 47 canine te**es, collected in 2016 from men ages 16 to 88.

The study found almost three times as many in the 23 samples — collected in 2016 from men ages 16 to 88 — as the 47 canine samples. This indicates a significant difference in the accumulation of microplastics between the two species. The human **es had a plastic concentration almost three times higher than that found in the dog te**es: 330 micrograms per gram of tissue compared with 123 micrograms.

"At the beginning, I doubted whether microplastics could pe*****te the reproductive system," said Xiaozhong Yu, a professor at the University of New Mexico Press and one of the authors of the study.

The researchers were also able to identify the different types of plastics present in the samples. Polyethylene (PE), the compound used for plastic bags and bottles, was dominant in both dogs and human te**es. The presence of these microplastics in the organs raises concerns about their potential impact on the human reproductive system, though the full extent of their health effects is not yet known.

The study also found a significant inter-individual variability in the levels of microplastics across the samples. This suggests that while microplastics are widespread, the exposure levels can vary greatly between individuals.

This study adds to the growing body of research on the pervasiveness of microplastics in the environment and their potential impact on human health. Previous studies have found microplastics in human placentas, ancient rocks, clogged arteries, blue whales, baby p**p, the wilderness of Antarctica, near the peak of Mount Everest, and the bottom of the ocean. The presence of microplastics in human te**es underscores the urgent need for further research into the health effects of these particles and their potential impact on the reproductive system.

By Daniel Webster

21/05/2024

Elvis Presley's Graceland Mansion Faces Foreclosure Auction Amid Claims of Fraud by Granddaughter

In a dramatic turn of events, the iconic Graceland Mansion, once the home of the legendary Elvis Presley is set to be auctioned off this Thursday amid claims of fraud by Presley's granddaughter, Riley Keough. The auction is a result of a foreclosure notice issued earlier this month, alleging that Lisa Marie Presley , Elvis' daughter and Keough's mother, failed to repay a $3.8 million loan secured in 2018 using as collateral.

Keough, the sole heir to the property and a rising actress known for her roles in "Daisy Jones & the Six" and "Under the Bridge," has filed a lawsuit disputing the loan and the impending auction. In her suit, she alleges that the company behind the loan, Naussany Investments and Private Lending, presented fraudulent documents and may not actually exist. She is seeking to block the sale and declare the loan and associated deed of trust as fraudulent and unenforceable.

The legal battle has brought to light a complex web of allegations and counter-claims. Keough argues that her mother never borrowed any money from Naussany Investments and that the signatures on the loan documents are forgeries. She also alleges that Kurt Naussany, named as a defendant, has no connection to the company as he left in 2015, despite a signed email purportedly from him in 2023 being included as evidence.

The dispute over Graceland's future has drawn significant public attention, not just because of the property's historical significance as 's home but also due to the high-profile nature of the individuals involved. The mansion, which became a in 2006, is a popular tourist destination and the final resting place for Elvis, his parents, Lisa Marie, and other family members.

As the legal battle unfolds, an injunction hearing is scheduled for Wednesday, May 22, between Keough and Naussany Investments. The outcome of this hearing could have a significant impact on the future of Graceland and the resolution of the fraud allegations.

For now, the fate of Elvis Presley's Graceland hangs in the balance, with the scheduled auction just days away and a determined granddaughter fighting to protect her family's legacy from what she claims is a fraudulent scheme.

Photo: Wikimedia Creative Commons

By Daniel Webster

21/05/2024

Tips and Tricks for Growing a Giant Pumpkin

By Daniel Webster

Growing a giant pumpkin is a fun and rewarding challenge for any gardener. Here's a guide I've prepared to help you get started on your journey to a .

1. Choose the right seed: The first step I use in growing a giant pumpkin is selecting the right seed. I recommend the Atlantic Giant, Pacific Giant, and BIG MAX pumpkin seed for those aiming for a large fruit. You can pick them up from SeedsNow.

2. Prepare the soil: Good preparation is crucial for growing a giant pumpkin. Till up a 10-foot diameter bed and add 6 inches of composted manure, tilling it into the soil. Shape the bed into a low broad mound and cover it with straw mulch for the winter. Keep in mind that you may need anywhere from 400 sq. ft. all the way up to 1200 sq. feet for just ONE pumpkin.

3. Start indoors: To ensure a strong start, start your seeds indoors in a warm, sunny location. I start mine in my south-facing kitchen window sill. Sow the seeds about 1 inch deep and keep the soil moist. Once the seedlings have developed their first true leaves, you can transplant them outdoors.

4. Provide plenty of space: Pumpkins need a lot of space to grow, so make sure to plant them in a location with full sun and plenty of room for the vines to spread. If you're growing more than one plant, space the mounds at least 10 feet apart.

5. Water and fertilize: Pumpkins are heavy feeders and need plenty of and nutrients to grow. Water the deeply once a week, and every two weeks with a balanced fertilizer. A giant pumpkin may need up to 500 gallons of water per week, once it's getting big. I use well-aged chicken manure from my chicken coop. If you don't have that available, consider using an organic fertilizer every 5-10 days, such as Seaweed (kelp) and/or fish hydrolysate are some of the fertilizers currently being used by competitive giant pumpkin growers.

6. Monitor growth: As the pumpkin grows, gently slip a large piece of cardboard or wood under the fruit to avoid rot and insect problems. Consider putting it on a pallet when it's growing -- easier to move a heavy pumpkin later. Remove the rootlets that form along the vine for several feet on either side of the pumpkin so that the vine can lift freely from the ground as the pumpkin grows.

7. Harvest: Harvest your pumpkin at the end of the season just before the first frost. Cut the stem with a sharp knife, leaving a few inches of stem attached to the pumpkin.

8. Go win your Giant Pumpkin , have the biggest jack-o'-lantern on the block, or make a heck of a lot of pumpkin pies for Thanksgiving. Enjoy.

Share with me pics of your favorite giant pumpkin.

By following these tips and tricks, you'll be well on your way to growing a giant pumpkin. Remember to be patient and enjoy the process, as it can take between 100 and 120 days for your pumpkin to reach its full size.

You can pick up your giant pumpkin seeds at my favorite seed supplier here:
https://www.seedsnow.com/?rfsn=5389593.7a0729&utm_source=refersion&utm_medium=affiliate&utm_campaign=5389593.7a0729

Your purchase at SeedsNow helps support my news service. Thank you. Enjoy your giant pumpkin.

Photos: Creative Commons.

20/05/2024

“Living is the art of getting used to what we didn’t expect.” —Eleanor C. Wood

Photo: The Ride of Their Lives, photographer Jonno Rattman

20/05/2024

Iranian President Ebrahim Raisi Feared Dead in Helicopter Crash; Two Passengers Make Contact Amid Harsh Conditions

In a tragic turn of events, Iranian President Ebrahim Raisi is feared to have died in a helicopter crash in the mountainous northwest of Iran. The incident occurred on May 19, 2024, while Raisi was returning from a visit to the Iranian border with Azerbaijan.

The helicopter, carrying Raisi and several officials, including the country's foreign minister, crashed in the mountainous region known for its challenging weather conditions and difficult terrain. The exact location of the crash site has been identified, and search and rescue teams are currently working tirelessly to reach the site. However, the fog and the rugged terrain have posed significant challenges to the rescue efforts.

The news of the crash has sent shockwaves across the country and the international community, with many expressing their condolences and concern for the safety of the president and the other officials on board the helicopter.

In a glimmer of hope, it has been reported that contact has been made with two passengers of the ill-fated helicopter. The Executive Deputy of the President, Mohsen Mansouri, has confirmed that communication was established with two of the people who were on the helicopter. He stated that the severity of the incident was not "very high," suggesting that there might be survivors.

The crash site is located in an area that has been experiencing severe weather conditions, including heavy fog, cold temperatures, and rain turning into snow. These harsh conditions have made the search and rescue operations even more challenging, with visibility severely limited and the terrain treacherous.

The Iranian government has not officially confirmed Raisi's death, and the nation is bracing for the worst. Prayers and vigils have been held across the country, with citizens expressing their grief and solidarity with the president's family.

The incident comes at a time of heightened tensions in the Middle East, and Raisi's death could have significant implications for the region. Raisi, who has been in office since August 2021, has been a key figure in Iran's foreign policy and has played a crucial role in the country's relations with its neighbors and the international community.

The cause of the crash is still under investigation, and it is not yet clear whether it was due to a technical malfunction or other factors. The incident underscores the risks involved in traveling in the region, which is known for its challenging weather conditions and rugged terrain.

As the nation awaits further news about the fate of President Raisi and the other officials on board the helicopter, the incident serves as a stark reminder of the fragility of life and the unpredictable nature of the world we live in.

18/05/2024

"God grants only to those who love it and are always ready to guard and defend it. Let our object be our country. And, by the blessing of God, may that country itself become a vast and splendid monument, not of oppression and terror, but of wisdom, of peace, and of liberty, upon which the world may gaze with admiration forever!"
- Daniel Webster, Statesman, Orator, Attorney

17/05/2024

Harrison Butker's Jersey Surges to Top of NFL Sales After Controversial Commencement Speech

In a surprising turn of events, Kansas City kicker has topped the jersey sales charts, surpassing even his teammate and star quarterback . This surge in sales comes on the heels of Butker's controversial commencement speech at Benedictine College, where he shared his views on faith, family, and societal roles.

, a traditional , has been outspoken about his beliefs on social media platforms, and his recent commencement speech was no exception. He encouraged women at the Catholic college not to feel shame in choosing motherhood over their careers and urged men to be active in their family life. These comments have been labeled as "sexist" and belittling of women who are childfree by some critics.

However, it seems that Butker's comments have struck a chord with a significant portion of the NFL community. The lists Butker's jersey as one of its "most popular," for both men and women. As of publication, the women's XL size for his jersey is sold out on NFL.com.

The surge in Butker's jersey sales is a testament to the disconnect between public figures and media outlets that control the message and the average consumer who controls the market. It highlights the silent majority's disagreement with the vocal minority, a trend that has been seen in recent controversies involving other brands and public figures.

The NFL has distanced itself from Butker's comments, with league representatives stating that his views were not those of the NFL and that the league is steadfast in its commitment to inclusion. Despite this, Butker's jersey sales continue to soar, indicating that his message resonates with a significant portion of the NFL community.

As the controversy continues, it remains to be seen how this will impact Butker's career and the broader conversation about faith, family, and societal roles in the NFL. For now, Butker's jersey sales serve as a stark reminder of the complex and often contradictory nature of public opinion in the digital age.

Grok and Daniel Webster contributed to this news article

Photo: Wikimedia Creative Commons – Harrison Butker on the sideline of the AFC Championship in Baltimore on January 28, 2024.

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