BBC News - Petite green cars tempt tourists:
"'Well, it's the communism of the future,' he says laughing. 'It's a communism that moves logically toward something that is very different than what it used to be.'"
Via Technoliberation
Wednesday, August 31, 2005
The Onion - Bush Vows To Eliminate U.S. Dependence On Oil By 4920
The Onion - Bush Vows To Eliminate U.S. Dependence On Oil By 4920:
"'As admirable as Mr. Bush's visionary pronouncement is, I worry that the timetable he proposes is far too ambitious,' General Motors CEO Richard Wagoner Jr. said. 'It is simply not realistic. The automotive industry would require an additional three or four thousand years to develop engines that can run effectively on renewable or cleaner-burning fuels.'"
"'As admirable as Mr. Bush's visionary pronouncement is, I worry that the timetable he proposes is far too ambitious,' General Motors CEO Richard Wagoner Jr. said. 'It is simply not realistic. The automotive industry would require an additional three or four thousand years to develop engines that can run effectively on renewable or cleaner-burning fuels.'"
The Onion - America Reminded Of Beef's Existence By Bold New Ad Campaign
The Onion - America Reminded Of Beef's Existence By Bold New Ad Campaign:
"'Over the past few years, the American Beef Council let up on its promotional efforts, running very few beef ads,' council president Richard Harnisch said. 'And that lack of aggressiveness came home to roost: A recent focus-group test indicated that Americans had forgotten all about this delicious mealtime staple. When asked about beef or shown pictures of it, they seemed vague on the concept, often asking if it was some new, redder form of pork.'"
"'Over the past few years, the American Beef Council let up on its promotional efforts, running very few beef ads,' council president Richard Harnisch said. 'And that lack of aggressiveness came home to roost: A recent focus-group test indicated that Americans had forgotten all about this delicious mealtime staple. When asked about beef or shown pictures of it, they seemed vague on the concept, often asking if it was some new, redder form of pork.'"
Department of Energy - Press Release: Energy Department Announces $4 Million Solicitation for Solid-State Lighting Research
Department of Energy - Press Release: Energy Department Announces $4 Million Solicitation for Solid-State Lighting Research:
"WASHINGTON, DC - The U.S. Department of Energy (DOE) today announced a $4 million solicitation for research into solid-state lighting (SSL) that has the potential to create light with virtually no heat and double the efficiency of general lighting systems, saving energy costs for consumers and reducing lighting’s environmental impact. Core SSL technologies include light-emitting diodes (LEDs), organic light-emitting diodes (OLEDs) and light-emitting polymers."
Via EERE Network Newsletter
"WASHINGTON, DC - The U.S. Department of Energy (DOE) today announced a $4 million solicitation for research into solid-state lighting (SSL) that has the potential to create light with virtually no heat and double the efficiency of general lighting systems, saving energy costs for consumers and reducing lighting’s environmental impact. Core SSL technologies include light-emitting diodes (LEDs), organic light-emitting diodes (OLEDs) and light-emitting polymers."
Via EERE Network Newsletter
Tuesday, August 30, 2005
O'Reilly Network - What Is a Smartphone
O'Reilly Network - What Is a Smartphone:
"A Smartphone combines the functions of a cellular phone and a handheld computer in a single device. It differs from a normal phone in that it has an operating system and local storage, so users can add and store information, send and receive email, and install programs to the phone as they could with a PDA. A smartphone gives users the best of both worlds--it has much the same capabilities as a handheld computer and the communications ability of a mobile phone."
"A Smartphone combines the functions of a cellular phone and a handheld computer in a single device. It differs from a normal phone in that it has an operating system and local storage, so users can add and store information, send and receive email, and install programs to the phone as they could with a PDA. A smartphone gives users the best of both worlds--it has much the same capabilities as a handheld computer and the communications ability of a mobile phone."
eWeek - Intel Viiv Aims to Centralize Home Media
Intel Viiv Aims to Centralize Home Media:
"The new consumer platform takes a jab at TiVo, with automatic format conversion, dual-core processor speed and a remote control. (PCMag.com)"
"The new consumer platform takes a jab at TiVo, with automatic format conversion, dual-core processor speed and a remote control. (PCMag.com)"
Technology Review - Holographic Memory
Technology Review - Holographic Memory:
"At the headquarters of InPhase Technologies, where the conference rooms are named after ski resorts, chief executive Nelson Diaz holds up a clear plastic disc, about the size of a DVD but thicker, and pops it into a disc drive. A laptop connected to the drive downloads streaming video of an old episode of Seinfeld as the drive writes it to the disc."
Via KurzweilAI.net
"At the headquarters of InPhase Technologies, where the conference rooms are named after ski resorts, chief executive Nelson Diaz holds up a clear plastic disc, about the size of a DVD but thicker, and pops it into a disc drive. A laptop connected to the drive downloads streaming video of an old episode of Seinfeld as the drive writes it to the disc."
Via KurzweilAI.net
ScienCentral - DNA Printer
ScienCentral - DNA Printer:
"Researchers have developed a way to print DNA. As this ScienCentral News video explains, that might one day make genetic testing as cheap and as accessible as a blood test."
Via KurzweilAI.net
"Researchers have developed a way to print DNA. As this ScienCentral News video explains, that might one day make genetic testing as cheap and as accessible as a blood test."
Via KurzweilAI.net
New York Times - Early Look at Research Project to Re-engineer the Internet
New York Times - Early Look at Research Project to Re-engineer the Internet:
"SAN FRANCISCO, Aug. 28 - The National Science Foundation is planning an effort to fundamentally re-engineer the Internet and overcome its shortcomings, creating a network more suited to the computerized world of the next decade."
Via KurzweilAI.net
"SAN FRANCISCO, Aug. 28 - The National Science Foundation is planning an effort to fundamentally re-engineer the Internet and overcome its shortcomings, creating a network more suited to the computerized world of the next decade."
Via KurzweilAI.net
National Geographic - "Anti-Aging Hormone" Found in Mice; May Help Humans
National Geographic - "Anti-Aging Hormone" Found in Mice; May Help Humans:
"Researchers have dramatically increased the life spans of mice by genetically engineering them to overproduce a protein called klotho. Not surprisingly, the discovery has spurred speculation that klotho could help humans live longer."
Via KurzweilAI.net
"Researchers have dramatically increased the life spans of mice by genetically engineering them to overproduce a protein called klotho. Not surprisingly, the discovery has spurred speculation that klotho could help humans live longer."
Via KurzweilAI.net
Washington Post - Xtreme Defense
Washington Post - Xtreme Defense:
"Lightning guns, heat rays, weapons that can make you hear the voice of God. This is what happens when the war on terror meets the entrepreneurial spirit"
Via KurzweilAI.net
"Lightning guns, heat rays, weapons that can make you hear the voice of God. This is what happens when the war on terror meets the entrepreneurial spirit"
Via KurzweilAI.net
EurekAlert! - Nanocoating could eliminate foggy windows and lenses
EurekAlert! - Nanocoating could eliminate foggy windows and lenses:
"WASHINGTON, Aug. 29 — Foggy windows and lenses are a nuisance, and in the case of automobile windows, can pose a driving hazard. Now, a group of scientists at the Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT) may have found a permanent solution to the problem. The team has developed a unique polymer coating — made of silica nanoparticles — that they say can create surfaces that never fog."
Via Future Feeder
"WASHINGTON, Aug. 29 — Foggy windows and lenses are a nuisance, and in the case of automobile windows, can pose a driving hazard. Now, a group of scientists at the Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT) may have found a permanent solution to the problem. The team has developed a unique polymer coating — made of silica nanoparticles — that they say can create surfaces that never fog."
Via Future Feeder
James J. Hughes "Unitarian Universalism and Transhumanism" 2005
James J. Hughes "Unitarian Universalism and Transhumanism" 2005:
"Sometimes when I'm asked how the coming technological transformation of humanity could be consistent with spirituality I think about people in the "locked-in" state. One of our oldest nightmares is of being buried alive, being totally conscious, and yet thought dead. That's what being locked-in is. It is a state of total paralysis, usually the result of a long, slow degeneration of nerve and muscle control, until you can't even blink or puff to communicate, even though you can still hear and see, and are fully conscious. People with conditions leading to locked-in state, like Lou Gehrig's disease, were often advised to make advanced directives to have their feeding tubes removed if they didn't want to spend a decade or more in this state."
Via Cyborg Democracy
"Sometimes when I'm asked how the coming technological transformation of humanity could be consistent with spirituality I think about people in the "locked-in" state. One of our oldest nightmares is of being buried alive, being totally conscious, and yet thought dead. That's what being locked-in is. It is a state of total paralysis, usually the result of a long, slow degeneration of nerve and muscle control, until you can't even blink or puff to communicate, even though you can still hear and see, and are fully conscious. People with conditions leading to locked-in state, like Lou Gehrig's disease, were often advised to make advanced directives to have their feeding tubes removed if they didn't want to spend a decade or more in this state."
Via Cyborg Democracy
Treehugger - Toyota's Fine-N Hybrid/Fuel Cell Concept Car
Treehugger - Toyota's Fine-N Hybrid/Fuel Cell Concept Car:
"While every other car company is racing to match the Prius' ICE/battery hybrid design, Toyota has the next best thing in it's sights: a fuel cell/battery hybrid with drive-by-wire on all four wheels. Yes...we know its only a concept car. But it seems like only a few years ago that people said that very same thing about Prius. And, a TreeHugger can dream can't he? For some cool trade show jargon have look below the fold."
"While every other car company is racing to match the Prius' ICE/battery hybrid design, Toyota has the next best thing in it's sights: a fuel cell/battery hybrid with drive-by-wire on all four wheels. Yes...we know its only a concept car. But it seems like only a few years ago that people said that very same thing about Prius. And, a TreeHugger can dream can't he? For some cool trade show jargon have look below the fold."
PaidContent - MTV To Launch "Urge" Music Service in 2006
PaidContent - MTV To Launch "Urge" Music Service in 2006:
"That's according to a story in the latest edition of AdAge..MTV is finally close to launching (well, next year) its as-yet-vaporware online music service...The planned name the is Urge, and the service will also have a My Space-like online community, as well as subscription and a la carte downloading services, according to the story."
Via Ypulse
"That's according to a story in the latest edition of AdAge..MTV is finally close to launching (well, next year) its as-yet-vaporware online music service...The planned name the is Urge, and the service will also have a My Space-like online community, as well as subscription and a la carte downloading services, according to the story."
Via Ypulse
Monday, August 29, 2005
Edge 166 - Show Me the Science
Edge 166 - Show Me the Science:
"'The proponents of intelligent design use an ingenious ploy that works something like this,' writes Tufts philosopher Daniel C. Dennett, and author of Darwin's Dangerous Idea. 'First you misuse or misdescribe some scientist's work. Then you get an angry rebuttal. Then, instead of dealing forthrightly with the charges leveled, you cite the rebuttal as evidence that there is a 'controversy' to teach.'"
"'The proponents of intelligent design use an ingenious ploy that works something like this,' writes Tufts philosopher Daniel C. Dennett, and author of Darwin's Dangerous Idea. 'First you misuse or misdescribe some scientist's work. Then you get an angry rebuttal. Then, instead of dealing forthrightly with the charges leveled, you cite the rebuttal as evidence that there is a 'controversy' to teach.'"
World of Car Fans - Mitsubishi Lancer Evolution MIEV
World of Car Fans - Mitsubishi Lancer Evolution MIEV:
"Mitsubishi Motors Corporation announced that it would enter a Lancer Evolution MIEV test vehicle in the Shikoku EV Rally 2005 to be held August 27-28 in Tokushima Prefecture on the island of Shikoku, Japan. Deriving from the Company’s Lancer Evolution IX high-performance 4WD sports sedan, Lancer Evolution MIEV uses a lithium-ion battery system to power four newly developed in-wheel motors. The Shikoku EV Rally 2005 is organized by the Shikoku EV Challenge Committee and the Shikoku EV Rally 2005 Executive Committee."
Via Electrifying Times Newsletter
"Mitsubishi Motors Corporation announced that it would enter a Lancer Evolution MIEV test vehicle in the Shikoku EV Rally 2005 to be held August 27-28 in Tokushima Prefecture on the island of Shikoku, Japan. Deriving from the Company’s Lancer Evolution IX high-performance 4WD sports sedan, Lancer Evolution MIEV uses a lithium-ion battery system to power four newly developed in-wheel motors. The Shikoku EV Rally 2005 is organized by the Shikoku EV Challenge Committee and the Shikoku EV Rally 2005 Executive Committee."
Via Electrifying Times Newsletter
Friday, August 26, 2005
I4U News - New Slick Sirius S50 Portable Satellite Radio Player
I4U News - New Slick Sirius S50 Portable Satellite Radio Player:
"SIRIUS Satellite Radio announces a new portable MP3 player with Satellite Radio Tuner called Sirius S50."
"SIRIUS Satellite Radio announces a new portable MP3 player with Satellite Radio Tuner called Sirius S50."
I4U News - Intel Viiv
I4U News - Intel Viiv:
"Intel Viiv (pronounced 'vīv' and rhymes with 'five') technology is Intel's new platform for digital home products."
Related: PhysOrg - Coming Attraction: Intel Viiv Technology
"Intel Viiv (pronounced 'vīv' and rhymes with 'five') technology is Intel's new platform for digital home products."
Related: PhysOrg - Coming Attraction: Intel Viiv Technology
VisualStore - Thor Spot
VisualStore - Thor Spot:
"Thor, which specializes in the acquisition and redevelopment of urban settings, will spend more than $100 million renovating the historic downtown hotel, including the creation of a retail center at the hotel’s base on State Street."
"Thor, which specializes in the acquisition and redevelopment of urban settings, will spend more than $100 million renovating the historic downtown hotel, including the creation of a retail center at the hotel’s base on State Street."
Thursday, August 25, 2005
doctor(logic) - Scientists Speak Up
doctor(logic) - Scientists Speak Up:
"First of all, let's set the record straight. There is no meaning (not even of the intuitive kind) in religion. Religious people speak as though everything makes sense from a religious worldview. It doesn’t. When you ask 'what is the meaning of life,' what possible answer would be acceptable?"
"First of all, let's set the record straight. There is no meaning (not even of the intuitive kind) in religion. Religious people speak as though everything makes sense from a religious worldview. It doesn’t. When you ask 'what is the meaning of life,' what possible answer would be acceptable?"
Yahoo! Movies - Doom Trailer
Yahoo! Movies - Doom Trailer:
"See Dwayne 'The Rock' Johnson in the exclusive trailer for 'Doom,' the long-awaited adaptation of the classic video game."
Watch: QuickTime
Related: Doom Movie
"See Dwayne 'The Rock' Johnson in the exclusive trailer for 'Doom,' the long-awaited adaptation of the classic video game."
Watch: QuickTime
Related: Doom Movie
PDF Zone - New Web Sites Help Convert RSS to PDF
PDF Zone - New Web Sites Help Convert RSS to PDF:
"How-To: Several new Web services let you quickly convert your RSS feeds to PDF for easy archiving, annotation and redistribution of information. Here's how (and why)."
"How-To: Several new Web services let you quickly convert your RSS feeds to PDF for easy archiving, annotation and redistribution of information. Here's how (and why)."
eWeek - Google, Skype Race Toward Next IM Frontier
eWeek - Google, Skype Race Toward Next IM Frontier:
"News Analysis: Enterprise instant messaging may be the future of the field, judging by upcoming projects from major vendors."
"News Analysis: Enterprise instant messaging may be the future of the field, judging by upcoming projects from major vendors."
NASA - Plastic Spaceships
NASA - Plastic Spaceships:
"We all use plastic trash bags; they're so common that we hardly give them a second thought. So who would have guessed that a lowly trash bag might hold the key to sending humans to Mars?"
"We all use plastic trash bags; they're so common that we hardly give them a second thought. So who would have guessed that a lowly trash bag might hold the key to sending humans to Mars?"
BizReport - Playboy to hit Internet with digital edition
BizReport - Playboy to hit Internet with digital edition:
"Playboy magazine, losing money in the face of depressed advertising, will go digital later this year in hopes of winning new subscribers and advertisers."
"Playboy magazine, losing money in the face of depressed advertising, will go digital later this year in hopes of winning new subscribers and advertisers."
BizReport - Copyright Program To Require Explorer
BizReport - Copyright Program To Require Explorer:
"A government program to let artists go online to register certain works for copyright protection would mandate the use of Microsoft Corp.'s Internet Explorer browser, raising charges that the effort is limiting the open use of the World Wide Web."
"A government program to let artists go online to register certain works for copyright protection would mandate the use of Microsoft Corp.'s Internet Explorer browser, raising charges that the effort is limiting the open use of the World Wide Web."
The Register - Brains, cancer and computers
The Register - Brains, cancer and computers:
"The race is on to apply machine learning to biology. The starting gun was fired in 2002 when research company Correlogic stunned the medical world with the announcement of a vastly improved test for detecting ovarian cancer. The new test was simple - a few drops of blood are all that's required - yet reliable. What made it truly remarkable was that the test was discovered by machine. This formed a key theme at this month's International Joint Conference in AI (IJCAI) at Edinburgh."
Via KurzweilAI.net
"The race is on to apply machine learning to biology. The starting gun was fired in 2002 when research company Correlogic stunned the medical world with the announcement of a vastly improved test for detecting ovarian cancer. The new test was simple - a few drops of blood are all that's required - yet reliable. What made it truly remarkable was that the test was discovered by machine. This formed a key theme at this month's International Joint Conference in AI (IJCAI) at Edinburgh."
Via KurzweilAI.net
New Scientist - Cord blood yields 'ethical' embryonic stem cells
New Scientist - Cord blood yields 'ethical' embryonic stem cells:
"Hopes for treating disease with stem cells from umbilical cord blood has received a major boost, following the discovery of primitive cells with clinical potential matching that of the far more controversial embryonic stem cells (ESCs). The latter are originally derived from human fetuses, which are then destroyed, and have become a major ethical issue, especially in the US."
Via KurzweilAI.net
"Hopes for treating disease with stem cells from umbilical cord blood has received a major boost, following the discovery of primitive cells with clinical potential matching that of the far more controversial embryonic stem cells (ESCs). The latter are originally derived from human fetuses, which are then destroyed, and have become a major ethical issue, especially in the US."
Via KurzweilAI.net
Science Blog - Light that travels… faster than light!
Science Blog - Light that travels… faster than light!:
"A team of researchers from the Ecole Polytechnique F̩d̩rale de Lausanne (EPFL) has successfully demonstrated, for the first time, that it is possible to control the speed of light Рboth slowing it down and speeding it up Рin an optical fiber, using off-the-shelf instrumentation in normal environmental conditions. Their results, to be published in the August 22 issue of Applied Physics Letters, could have implications that range from optical computing to the fiber-optic telecommunications industry."
Via KurzweilAI.net
"A team of researchers from the Ecole Polytechnique F̩d̩rale de Lausanne (EPFL) has successfully demonstrated, for the first time, that it is possible to control the speed of light Рboth slowing it down and speeding it up Рin an optical fiber, using off-the-shelf instrumentation in normal environmental conditions. Their results, to be published in the August 22 issue of Applied Physics Letters, could have implications that range from optical computing to the fiber-optic telecommunications industry."
Via KurzweilAI.net
PC Magazine - Watching Over You
PC Magazine - Watching Over You:
"Round-the-clock medical monitoring for at-risk patients could soon be as easy as a flick of the wrist. The MDKeeper, from Tadiran Spectralink, is worn like a watch and integrates various medical sensors, a Siemens GSM/GPRS radio module, and a built-in cellular speakerphone and processing unit to measure and transmit data to caregivers."
Via KurzweilAI.net
"Round-the-clock medical monitoring for at-risk patients could soon be as easy as a flick of the wrist. The MDKeeper, from Tadiran Spectralink, is worn like a watch and integrates various medical sensors, a Siemens GSM/GPRS radio module, and a built-in cellular speakerphone and processing unit to measure and transmit data to caregivers."
Via KurzweilAI.net
Guardian Unlimited - Daisy has all the digital answers to life on Earth
Guardian Unlimited - Daisy has all the digital answers to life on Earth:
"Scientists have unveiled plans to create a digital library of all life on Earth. They say that the Digital Automated Identification System (Daisy), which harnesses the latest advances in artificial intelligence and computer vision, will have an enormous impact on research into biodiversity and evolution."
Via KurzweilAI.net
"Scientists have unveiled plans to create a digital library of all life on Earth. They say that the Digital Automated Identification System (Daisy), which harnesses the latest advances in artificial intelligence and computer vision, will have an enormous impact on research into biodiversity and evolution."
Via KurzweilAI.net
BizReport - Amazon.com to offer photo service with Shutterfly
BizReport - Amazon.com to offer photo service with Shutterfly:
"Web retailer Amazon.com on Monday said it would offer online photo developing services through a partnership with leading Internet photo service Shutterfly as it targets a fast-growing market."
"Web retailer Amazon.com on Monday said it would offer online photo developing services through a partnership with leading Internet photo service Shutterfly as it targets a fast-growing market."
BizReport - Google to Launch Messaging, Voice Service
BizReport - Google to Launch Messaging, Voice Service:
"Further expanding beyond its roots in Internet search, Google Inc. plans to launch a long-rumored program Wednesday that provides both text instant messaging and computer-to-computer voice chat."
"Further expanding beyond its roots in Internet search, Google Inc. plans to launch a long-rumored program Wednesday that provides both text instant messaging and computer-to-computer voice chat."
The Boston Globe - Naturally, everything on sale at this shop is green
The Boston Globe - Naturally, everything on sale at this shop is green:
"Funky bags on display turn out to be cut from former highway billboards (the sturdy vinyl-laminated nylon ads are both chic and waterproof). Tags reveal that the seemingly normal backpacks for sale were spun from plastic soda bottles. Among the elegant, slightly reblown glassware sits a lovely set that began life as vessels for Perrier."
Via Reveries
"Funky bags on display turn out to be cut from former highway billboards (the sturdy vinyl-laminated nylon ads are both chic and waterproof). Tags reveal that the seemingly normal backpacks for sale were spun from plastic soda bottles. Among the elegant, slightly reblown glassware sits a lovely set that began life as vessels for Perrier."
Via Reveries
Infoconomy - Digital Payment
Infoconomy - Digital Payment:
"In recent months shoppers in parts of the US have been walking up to check outs, waving their hands at the shop assistant, and walking out of the store with armfuls of groceries. But this is not part of some shoplifting craze: it is the testing ground for widespread use of biometric payment technologies."
"In recent months shoppers in parts of the US have been walking up to check outs, waving their hands at the shop assistant, and walking out of the store with armfuls of groceries. But this is not part of some shoplifting craze: it is the testing ground for widespread use of biometric payment technologies."
PC Magazine - Nail Byting
PC Magazine - Nail Byting:
"The next time you find yourself reaching a finger up for a quick nail-nibble, watch out: You might be destroying precious data. Researchers at the University of Tokushima's Department of Optical Science and Technology have managed to encode data on the human fingernail, and they aren't stopping there. Skin, teeth, and more might soon join the fingernail as biological USB drives of a sort."
"The next time you find yourself reaching a finger up for a quick nail-nibble, watch out: You might be destroying precious data. Researchers at the University of Tokushima's Department of Optical Science and Technology have managed to encode data on the human fingernail, and they aren't stopping there. Skin, teeth, and more might soon join the fingernail as biological USB drives of a sort."
Wired News - The Super Network
Wired News - The Super Network:
"For its part, Yahoo! is working with SBC and Microsoft on an IPTV/fiber-to-the-curb initiative called Project Lightspeed that uses Yahoo! software to deliver video-on-demand, instant messaging, photo collections, and music. Meanwhile, chief executive Terry Semel, who spent 24 years as an executive at Warner Bros., has recruited a crew of network personnel in Santa Monica to crack open the contractual vaults containing 50 years of rights-encumbered TV and film archives. And Yahoo! has already become the Internet home of broadcast fare like Fat Actress and The Apprentice. 'They're clearly thinking of themselves as the fifth network,' says Jeremy Allaire, founder of Brightcove, a Net video distribution startup."
Via Reveries
"For its part, Yahoo! is working with SBC and Microsoft on an IPTV/fiber-to-the-curb initiative called Project Lightspeed that uses Yahoo! software to deliver video-on-demand, instant messaging, photo collections, and music. Meanwhile, chief executive Terry Semel, who spent 24 years as an executive at Warner Bros., has recruited a crew of network personnel in Santa Monica to crack open the contractual vaults containing 50 years of rights-encumbered TV and film archives. And Yahoo! has already become the Internet home of broadcast fare like Fat Actress and The Apprentice. 'They're clearly thinking of themselves as the fifth network,' says Jeremy Allaire, founder of Brightcove, a Net video distribution startup."
Via Reveries
Deutsche Welle - Car Sharing Picks Up Speed
Deutsche Welle - Car Sharing Picks Up Speed:
"Once the domain of the decidedly “green” crowd, the concept of car sharing is finding more fans in the mainstream. They want the convenience of a car, but less hassle and expense."
Via Reveries
Related: Car Sharing
Related: City Car Share
Related: Zip Car
Related: Flexcar
"Once the domain of the decidedly “green” crowd, the concept of car sharing is finding more fans in the mainstream. They want the convenience of a car, but less hassle and expense."
Via Reveries
Related: Car Sharing
Related: City Car Share
Related: Zip Car
Related: Flexcar
Wired News - Drier Laundry Through Chemistry
Wired News - Drier Laundry Through Chemistry:
"A 'chemical wringer' developed by researchers in Florida leaves clothes 20 percent drier than a normal wash, and could save consumers millions in electricity bills."
Via Reveries
"A 'chemical wringer' developed by researchers in Florida leaves clothes 20 percent drier than a normal wash, and could save consumers millions in electricity bills."
Via Reveries
Nanotech News - Targeted pH Sensitive Nanoparticle Releases Drug Inside Tumor Cells
Nanotech News - Targeted pH Sensitive Nanoparticle Releases Drug Inside Tumor Cells:
"A multidisciplinary team of investigators at the University of Tokyo in Japan has created a self-assembling nanostructure that targets human cancer cells and releases drug molecules in response to a change in pH that is characteristic of many types of cancer (click here for more on self-assembly). This work was published in the journal Molecular BioSystems."
Via Foresight Nanotech Institute Newsletter
"A multidisciplinary team of investigators at the University of Tokyo in Japan has created a self-assembling nanostructure that targets human cancer cells and releases drug molecules in response to a change in pH that is characteristic of many types of cancer (click here for more on self-assembly). This work was published in the journal Molecular BioSystems."
Via Foresight Nanotech Institute Newsletter
FOX News - New Drug May Help Sleep-Deprived Brain
FOX News - New Drug May Help Sleep-Deprived Brain:
"The drug is currently called CX717 and was recently tested on monkeys. The results appear in Public Library of Science Biology."
Via Reveries
"The drug is currently called CX717 and was recently tested on monkeys. The results appear in Public Library of Science Biology."
Via Reveries
Wednesday, August 24, 2005
Future Feeder - Sustainable House of the Future Runs on Spinach
Future Feeder - Sustainable House of the Future Runs on Spinach:
"The winning entry to the Cradle to Cradle C2C Home Competition is an incredible single family dwelling by Matthew Coates and Tim Meldrum that goes right to the core fundamentals of the Cradle to Cradle principles. Not only does the building run a photosynthetic and phototropic skin made with spinach protein, but it also produces more energy than a single family’s needs, allowing the excess to be distributed to neighbors. This radical shift, from centralized energy systems today, fosters community interdependence as neighbors benefit from the resources of others."
"The winning entry to the Cradle to Cradle C2C Home Competition is an incredible single family dwelling by Matthew Coates and Tim Meldrum that goes right to the core fundamentals of the Cradle to Cradle principles. Not only does the building run a photosynthetic and phototropic skin made with spinach protein, but it also produces more energy than a single family’s needs, allowing the excess to be distributed to neighbors. This radical shift, from centralized energy systems today, fosters community interdependence as neighbors benefit from the resources of others."
New Scientist - Billboards beam adverts to passing cellphones
New Scientist - Billboards beam adverts to passing cellphones:
"Ignoring adverts is about to get a lot tougher with the development of billboards and advertising posters that use Bluetooth to beam video ads direct to passing cellphones."
Via Reveries
"Ignoring adverts is about to get a lot tougher with the development of billboards and advertising posters that use Bluetooth to beam video ads direct to passing cellphones."
Via Reveries
Research News - First Measurement of Geoneutrinos at KamLAND
Research News - First Measurement of Geoneutrinos at KamLAND:
"BERKELEY, CA – Results from KamLAND, an underground neutrino detector in central Japan, show that anti-electron neutrinos emanating from the earth, so-called geoneutrinos, can be used as a unique window into the interior of our planet, revealing information that is hidden from other probes."
Via EERE Network News
"BERKELEY, CA – Results from KamLAND, an underground neutrino detector in central Japan, show that anti-electron neutrinos emanating from the earth, so-called geoneutrinos, can be used as a unique window into the interior of our planet, revealing information that is hidden from other probes."
Via EERE Network News
GE Global Research - GE Global Research Develops "Ideal" Carbon Nanotube Diode
GE Global Research - GE Global Research Develops "Ideal" Carbon Nanotube Diode:
"Niskayuna, N.Y., August 18, 2005 – GE Global Research, the centralized research organization of the General Electric Company (NYSE: GE), announced the development of an ideal carbon nanotube diode that operates at the “theoretical limit,” or best possible performance. This is a significant improvement upon the original nanotube diode device that GE developed and announced last year. This latest breakthrough will enable even smaller and faster electronic devices with increased functionality."
Via EERE Network News
"Niskayuna, N.Y., August 18, 2005 – GE Global Research, the centralized research organization of the General Electric Company (NYSE: GE), announced the development of an ideal carbon nanotube diode that operates at the “theoretical limit,” or best possible performance. This is a significant improvement upon the original nanotube diode device that GE developed and announced last year. This latest breakthrough will enable even smaller and faster electronic devices with increased functionality."
Via EERE Network News
LEED Rating System for Homes
LEED Rating System for Homes:
"The LEED for Homes program is being developed by the USGBC with input from local and national stakeholder groups. It is a voluntary initiative promoting the transformation of the mainstream home building industry towards more sustainable practices. It will provide a much-needed tool for homebuilders, homeowners, and local governments for building environmentally sound, healthy, and resource-efficient places to live."
Via EERE Network News
"The LEED for Homes program is being developed by the USGBC with input from local and national stakeholder groups. It is a voluntary initiative promoting the transformation of the mainstream home building industry towards more sustainable practices. It will provide a much-needed tool for homebuilders, homeowners, and local governments for building environmentally sound, healthy, and resource-efficient places to live."
Via EERE Network News
Washington University in St. Louis - Protein that regulates aging may provide key to new diabetes therapies
Washington University in St. Louis - Protein that regulates aging may provide key to new diabetes therapies:
"Aug. 16, 2005 — Opening the possibility of new therapies for type 2 diabetes, researchers at Washington University School of Medicine in St. Louis have found that a protein called Sirt1 enhances the secretion of insulin in mice and allows them to better control blood glucose levels. Their study will appear in the August 17 issue of Cell Metabolism."
Via Longevity Meme Newsletter
"Aug. 16, 2005 — Opening the possibility of new therapies for type 2 diabetes, researchers at Washington University School of Medicine in St. Louis have found that a protein called Sirt1 enhances the secretion of insulin in mice and allows them to better control blood glucose levels. Their study will appear in the August 17 issue of Cell Metabolism."
Via Longevity Meme Newsletter
Tech Central Station - The Singular Sensation
Tech Central Station - The Singular Sensation:
"Most of us will become gods. And not one of those wimpy anthropomorphic gods from Greek myth, but gods trillions of times more intelligent than mere mortal men. Such is the thesis of Ray Kurzweil, who argues in The Singularity Is Near that humanity is inexorably headed towards the Singularity."
Via Longeviy Meme Newsletter
"Most of us will become gods. And not one of those wimpy anthropomorphic gods from Greek myth, but gods trillions of times more intelligent than mere mortal men. Such is the thesis of Ray Kurzweil, who argues in The Singularity Is Near that humanity is inexorably headed towards the Singularity."
Via Longeviy Meme Newsletter
Tuesday, August 23, 2005
USA TODAY - Companies offer cell-phone comics in Japan
USA TODAY - Companies offer cell-phone comics in Japan:
"TOKYO — Sony Pictures Entertainment Inc. will almost triple the number of comic books it formats for viewing on cell phones in a move that will make it the No. 1 provider of popular Japanese 'manga' comics for cell phones, a company official said Monday."
Via Ypulse
"TOKYO — Sony Pictures Entertainment Inc. will almost triple the number of comic books it formats for viewing on cell phones in a move that will make it the No. 1 provider of popular Japanese 'manga' comics for cell phones, a company official said Monday."
Via Ypulse
news @ nature - Nanotube sheets come of age
news @ nature - Nanotube sheets come of age:
"Large, transparent sheets of carbon nanotubes can now be produced at lightning speed. The new technique should allow the nanotubes to be used in commercial devices from heated car windows to flexible television screens."
"Large, transparent sheets of carbon nanotubes can now be produced at lightning speed. The new technique should allow the nanotubes to be used in commercial devices from heated car windows to flexible television screens."
we make money not art - Using the homeless for advertising
we make money not art - Using the homeless for advertising:
"A Seattle entrepreneur is putting the homeless and panhandlers to work for a low-cost marketing campaign. He says it's a highly visible (but aren't we looking away whenever we see a homeless?) way to publicize his Web site — he calls it 'bumvertising.'"
Via Archinect
Related: Bumvertising
"A Seattle entrepreneur is putting the homeless and panhandlers to work for a low-cost marketing campaign. He says it's a highly visible (but aren't we looking away whenever we see a homeless?) way to publicize his Web site — he calls it 'bumvertising.'"
Via Archinect
Related: Bumvertising
SPIEGEL ONLINE - Recycling Architectural Disasters: A Communist Block House Renaissance
SPIEGEL ONLINE - Recycling Architectural Disasters: A Communist Block House Renaissance:
"Eastern Germany's population is shrinking and leaving hundreds of thousands of empty buildings behind. With plans afoot to demolish 350,000 apartments worth of hideous, communist-era buildings made from pre-fab concrete, a Berlin architectural firm is recycling the material into immensely livable single-family homes."
"Eastern Germany's population is shrinking and leaving hundreds of thousands of empty buildings behind. With plans afoot to demolish 350,000 apartments worth of hideous, communist-era buildings made from pre-fab concrete, a Berlin architectural firm is recycling the material into immensely livable single-family homes."
WorldChanging - Another World Is Here: Urban Density, Left-Coast Style
WorldChanging - Another World Is Here: Urban Density, Left-Coast Style:
"We know that there's a strong correlation between urban density and energy efficiency. Communities packing 12 or more households per acre are more efficient than less-dense communities built with the latest Energy Star appliances and materials. When planned and executed well, high-density residential areas can be appealing even to those reluctant to give up the space of single-family-home suburbia. When high density is the result of lack of planning or poor decisions, however, the result can be bad -- very bad."
Via Archinect
"We know that there's a strong correlation between urban density and energy efficiency. Communities packing 12 or more households per acre are more efficient than less-dense communities built with the latest Energy Star appliances and materials. When planned and executed well, high-density residential areas can be appealing even to those reluctant to give up the space of single-family-home suburbia. When high density is the result of lack of planning or poor decisions, however, the result can be bad -- very bad."
Via Archinect
International Automated Systems - Turbine
International Automated Systems - Turbine:
"International Automated Systems, Inc. (IAUS.OB) ['IAS'] has developed a new breakthrough bladeless turbine technology. It is a patent pending propulsion turbine, which some believe may revolutionize electrical power generation and low-cost hydrogen fuel production."
Related: Innoterm Energetics
Related: Quasiturbine
"International Automated Systems, Inc. (IAUS.OB) ['IAS'] has developed a new breakthrough bladeless turbine technology. It is a patent pending propulsion turbine, which some believe may revolutionize electrical power generation and low-cost hydrogen fuel production."
Related: Innoterm Energetics
Related: Quasiturbine
The Day You Discard Your Body, by Marshall Brain
The Day You Discard Your Body, by Marshall Brain:
"Stop for a moment and think about your favorite science fiction stories. There are a bunch of them out there to choose from. For example, there are the two most popular science fiction franchises of all time: Star Wars and Star Trek. Both of them have brought in billions of dollars through movies, syndication, books and merchandise. There are popular TV shows -- everything from Lost in Space to Battlestar Galactica. There are the big movies like I, Robot and 2001: A Space Odyssey. From the world of video games there are incredibly popular titles like Halo and Half-life. And then there are the well-known science fiction books like Brave New World, The Hitchhiker's Guide to the Galaxy, Ringworld and Neuromancer. In other words, you have a very large body of work to choose from when it comes to science fiction."
Via Technoliberation
"Stop for a moment and think about your favorite science fiction stories. There are a bunch of them out there to choose from. For example, there are the two most popular science fiction franchises of all time: Star Wars and Star Trek. Both of them have brought in billions of dollars through movies, syndication, books and merchandise. There are popular TV shows -- everything from Lost in Space to Battlestar Galactica. There are the big movies like I, Robot and 2001: A Space Odyssey. From the world of video games there are incredibly popular titles like Halo and Half-life. And then there are the well-known science fiction books like Brave New World, The Hitchhiker's Guide to the Galaxy, Ringworld and Neuromancer. In other words, you have a very large body of work to choose from when it comes to science fiction."
Via Technoliberation
PR Web - Nokia Theatre Times Square Set for September New York City Debut
PR Web - Nokia Theatre Times Square Set for September New York City Debut:
"Nokia Theatre Times Square, located at 1515 Broadway, the corner of Broadway and 44th Street in the Viacom/MTV building, will be an innovative, multi-use theater that can be transformed to accommodate a wide array of events including concerts, live television and web broadcasts, live recordings, award shows and cocktail receptions. Currently undergoing a $21 million renovation in the former Loews Astor Plaza movie theatre, the theatre will have a capacity that ranges from 1500 – 2100 depending on the event. Tickets for upcoming shows at Nokia Theatre Times Square will be available at www.nokiatheatrenyc.com, through Ticketmaster at http://www.ticketmaster.com/venue/300 or by phone at (212) 307-7171 beginning Friday, August 12th."
Via Reveries
"Nokia Theatre Times Square, located at 1515 Broadway, the corner of Broadway and 44th Street in the Viacom/MTV building, will be an innovative, multi-use theater that can be transformed to accommodate a wide array of events including concerts, live television and web broadcasts, live recordings, award shows and cocktail receptions. Currently undergoing a $21 million renovation in the former Loews Astor Plaza movie theatre, the theatre will have a capacity that ranges from 1500 – 2100 depending on the event. Tickets for upcoming shows at Nokia Theatre Times Square will be available at www.nokiatheatrenyc.com, through Ticketmaster at http://www.ticketmaster.com/venue/300 or by phone at (212) 307-7171 beginning Friday, August 12th."
Via Reveries
Monday, August 22, 2005
A Weekly Dose of Architecture - Isokon Flats
A Weekly Dose of Architecture - Isokon Flats:
"Many people know of the Isokon Flats for its most famous occupant, Agatha Christie, who lived at what was then called the Lawn Road Flats from 1940-46. While people might also know of the project's other war-era tenants (Walter Gropius, Marcel Breuer, Lazslo Moholy-Nagy), the building itself is unfortunately, to most, nothing more than a 'giant liner without any funnels' or as a pretty picture snapped in its heyday. The reinforced-concrete housing project is the work of Jack and Molly Pritchard and their architect Wells Coates. Together they envisioned a block of serviced flats (combined living/bedroom with kitchenette, bathroom and dressing room) to be fitted out with the Pritchards line of innovative furniture, Isokon. Featuring a communal restaurant (the Isobar -- designed by Marcel Breuer), laundry facilities and a roof garden, the building was distinctively modern in function as well as appearance."
"Many people know of the Isokon Flats for its most famous occupant, Agatha Christie, who lived at what was then called the Lawn Road Flats from 1940-46. While people might also know of the project's other war-era tenants (Walter Gropius, Marcel Breuer, Lazslo Moholy-Nagy), the building itself is unfortunately, to most, nothing more than a 'giant liner without any funnels' or as a pretty picture snapped in its heyday. The reinforced-concrete housing project is the work of Jack and Molly Pritchard and their architect Wells Coates. Together they envisioned a block of serviced flats (combined living/bedroom with kitchenette, bathroom and dressing room) to be fitted out with the Pritchards line of innovative furniture, Isokon. Featuring a communal restaurant (the Isobar -- designed by Marcel Breuer), laundry facilities and a roof garden, the building was distinctively modern in function as well as appearance."
Yahoo! News - British Soldiers Get Germ-Fighting Undies
Yahoo! News - British Soldiers Get Germ-Fighting Undies:
"LONDON - British troops combating the heat and dust of Iraq and Afghanistan have a new weapon in their armory — germ-fighting underwear. The antimicrobial underpants have been introduced by the Ministry of Defense as part of a new desert uniform for soldiers. They are the first undergarments issued to British troops, who traditionally have had to supply their own."
Via 21f
"LONDON - British troops combating the heat and dust of Iraq and Afghanistan have a new weapon in their armory — germ-fighting underwear. The antimicrobial underpants have been introduced by the Ministry of Defense as part of a new desert uniform for soldiers. They are the first undergarments issued to British troops, who traditionally have had to supply their own."
Via 21f
Sunday, August 21, 2005
LinuxDevices - World's first Linux "PDA phone" on the way?
LinuxDevices - World's first Linux "PDA phone" on the way?:
"A Chinese mobile phone hardware vendor and a Singaporean smartphone and PDA phone designer will jointly develop a Linux 'PDA phone.' Longcheer Technology and Oswin Technology have additionally agreed to jointly market each other's products, which include 'knock-down' phones, and smartphones and PDA phone designs."
Via All Linux Devices
"A Chinese mobile phone hardware vendor and a Singaporean smartphone and PDA phone designer will jointly develop a Linux 'PDA phone.' Longcheer Technology and Oswin Technology have additionally agreed to jointly market each other's products, which include 'knock-down' phones, and smartphones and PDA phone designs."
Via All Linux Devices
Saturday, August 20, 2005
Post Gazette - Nike, Bausch & Lomb team to make contact lenses that work as sunglasses
Post Gazette - Nike, Bausch & Lomb team to make contact lenses that work as sunglasses:
"The Nike Maxsight sport-tinted soft contact lenses, hitting the market this month, are designed with special technology that allow athletes and outdoor enthusiasts to see sports action with greater clarity."
Via 21f Newsgroup
"The Nike Maxsight sport-tinted soft contact lenses, hitting the market this month, are designed with special technology that allow athletes and outdoor enthusiasts to see sports action with greater clarity."
Via 21f Newsgroup
Friday, August 19, 2005
Thursday, August 18, 2005
geekBlue - Blu-Ray Next Generation DVD Gets Another Big Backer
geekBlue - Blu-Ray Next Generation DVD Gets Another Big Backer:
"Universal Music Group has announced its support for Sony's Blu-ray optical disc format for next-generation DVDs. Blu-ray has a storage capacity of 50GB, over 10x of what a current DVD will hold, and is developed by Sony and used in the upcoming PlayStation 3 gaming console. The main competitor for the hardware is Toshiba's HD-DVD standard."
Via LIVEdigitally Newsletter
"Universal Music Group has announced its support for Sony's Blu-ray optical disc format for next-generation DVDs. Blu-ray has a storage capacity of 50GB, over 10x of what a current DVD will hold, and is developed by Sony and used in the upcoming PlayStation 3 gaming console. The main competitor for the hardware is Toshiba's HD-DVD standard."
Via LIVEdigitally Newsletter
New Scientist - Computer characters mugged in virtual crime spree
New Scientist - Computer characters mugged in virtual crime spree:
"A man has been arrested in Japan on suspicion carrying out a virtual mugging spree by using software 'bots' to beat up and rob characters in the online computer game Lineage II. The stolen virtual possessions were then exchanged for real cash."
Via CNET News - Extra <- LIVEdigitally Newsletter
"A man has been arrested in Japan on suspicion carrying out a virtual mugging spree by using software 'bots' to beat up and rob characters in the online computer game Lineage II. The stolen virtual possessions were then exchanged for real cash."
Via CNET News - Extra <- LIVEdigitally Newsletter
LinuxDevices - First Technology FGA-60 multimedia display controller
LinuxDevices - First Technology FGA-60 multimedia display controller:
"First Technology's newest offering is the FGA-60, a Linux-based multimedia display controller that outputs still pictures and video clips (plus audio) to single or multiple CRTs, flat-panels, and TVs. The device is intended for use in signage and advertising applications in transportation, hospitality, and corporate environments, according to the Finland-based company."
"First Technology's newest offering is the FGA-60, a Linux-based multimedia display controller that outputs still pictures and video clips (plus audio) to single or multiple CRTs, flat-panels, and TVs. The device is intended for use in signage and advertising applications in transportation, hospitality, and corporate environments, according to the Finland-based company."
PhysOrg - Researchers Develop New Source of Energy Using Nanotechnology
PhysOrg - Researchers Develop New Source of Energy Using Nanotechnology:
"Countries across the world continue to search for new ways to create energy. As our current means for energy continue to deplete, thus making them more expensive to generate, governments are searching for new energy resources. Researchers at the University of Missouri-Columbia have developed a more efficient source of energy involving nano-scale particles that take only microseconds to create and can be developed on a surface as small as a microchip."
Via Foresight Nanotech Institute Weekly Digest
"Countries across the world continue to search for new ways to create energy. As our current means for energy continue to deplete, thus making them more expensive to generate, governments are searching for new energy resources. Researchers at the University of Missouri-Columbia have developed a more efficient source of energy involving nano-scale particles that take only microseconds to create and can be developed on a surface as small as a microchip."
Via Foresight Nanotech Institute Weekly Digest
AZoNano - Solar Energy and Nanotechnology for Wastewater Treatment
AZoNano - Solar Energy and Nanotechnology for Wastewater Treatment:
"Researchers at The University of South Australia (UniSA) are developing a unique treatment for wastewater that guarantees improved water quality over existing treatments without relying on expensive chemicals."
Via Foresight Nanotech Institute Weekly Digest
"Researchers at The University of South Australia (UniSA) are developing a unique treatment for wastewater that guarantees improved water quality over existing treatments without relying on expensive chemicals."
Via Foresight Nanotech Institute Weekly Digest
SearchEngineWatch - Why Yahoo Bought Konfabulator
SearchEngineWatch - Why Yahoo Bought Konfabulator:
"Yahoo's recent purchase of Pixoria, developer of the quirky but seriously cool Konfabulator platform, has many pundits scratching their heads—what on earth would a web search company want with all of those software widgets?"
"Yahoo's recent purchase of Pixoria, developer of the quirky but seriously cool Konfabulator platform, has many pundits scratching their heads—what on earth would a web search company want with all of those software widgets?"
Technology Research News - Textures ID paper and plastic
Technology Research News - Textures ID paper and plastic:
"Researchers from Imperial College London, Durham University and the University of Sheffield in England have developed a way of uniquely identifying documents, credit cards and product packaging."
"Researchers from Imperial College London, Durham University and the University of Sheffield in England have developed a way of uniquely identifying documents, credit cards and product packaging."
The Economist - Icahn's latest prey
The Economist - Icahn's latest prey:
"TIME WARNER should sweat a bit more, thinks Carl Icahn, a veteran corporate raider and activist shareholder. He sniffs at the media firm's plan to float a 16% stake in its cable business next year, and to buy back $5 billion-worth of its own shares. Instead it should spin off the cable business and spend $20 billion buying back its own shares if it wants to put some serious zip into its share price, he said this week."
"TIME WARNER should sweat a bit more, thinks Carl Icahn, a veteran corporate raider and activist shareholder. He sniffs at the media firm's plan to float a 16% stake in its cable business next year, and to buy back $5 billion-worth of its own shares. Instead it should spin off the cable business and spend $20 billion buying back its own shares if it wants to put some serious zip into its share price, he said this week."
BizReport - Number of Internet-Phone Consumers Soars
BizReport - Number of Internet-Phone Consumers Soars:
"The number of consumers bypassing the traditional phone network and opting for Internet voice service is soaring beyond expectations."
"The number of consumers bypassing the traditional phone network and opting for Internet voice service is soaring beyond expectations."
BizReport - USA Today to Publish Technology Magazine
BizReport - USA Today to Publish Technology Magazine:
"USA Today, the largest-circulation daily newspaper in the country, is launching a glossy technology magazine covering consumer electronics and trends, the newspaper announced Thursday."
"USA Today, the largest-circulation daily newspaper in the country, is launching a glossy technology magazine covering consumer electronics and trends, the newspaper announced Thursday."
BizReport - New Job-Hunting Sites Might Be Monster Killers
BizReport - New Job-Hunting Sites Might Be Monster Killers:
"Simply Hired and Indeed, upstarts less than a year old, are getting attention for their Google-like approach to helping people find jobs."
"Simply Hired and Indeed, upstarts less than a year old, are getting attention for their Google-like approach to helping people find jobs."
PDF Zone - Converting PDFs to Audio Formats Means Easy Listening
PDF Zone - Converting PDFs to Audio Formats Means Easy Listening:
"Opinion: Who's got time to actually read documents these days? New software from ScanSoft lets you convert your PDFs to WAV or AIFF and listen to them on the go. "
"Opinion: Who's got time to actually read documents these days? New software from ScanSoft lets you convert your PDFs to WAV or AIFF and listen to them on the go. "
PC Magazine - Disserving the Public
PC Magazine - Disserving the Public:
"This same sort of public policy is practiced at the federal level too, again at the behest of the big phone and cable companies. A recent court ruling in favor of the telcos says it's okay for them to withhold DSL service if the user doesn't have some sort of voice service. In other words, if I have a phone and decide that I want just DSL and not voice, I can't have it. There's your free market for you."
"This same sort of public policy is practiced at the federal level too, again at the behest of the big phone and cable companies. A recent court ruling in favor of the telcos says it's okay for them to withhold DSL service if the user doesn't have some sort of voice service. In other words, if I have a phone and decide that I want just DSL and not voice, I can't have it. There's your free market for you."
VisualStore - The Colonel Says You Can’t Smoke in Here
VisualStore - The Colonel Says You Can’t Smoke in Here:
"Yum Brands Inc. (Louisville, Ky.), parent company of KFC and Pizza Hut fast-food chains, said it will enforce a no-smoking ban at company-owned locations of both operations."
"Yum Brands Inc. (Louisville, Ky.), parent company of KFC and Pizza Hut fast-food chains, said it will enforce a no-smoking ban at company-owned locations of both operations."
Wednesday, August 17, 2005
BizReport - Amazon.com Unveils Photo-Mapping Service
BizReport - Amazon.com Unveils Photo-Mapping Service:
"Hoping to become a more popular Internet destination, a small search engine owned by Web retailer Amazon.com Inc. is testing a mapping service that will display street-level photos of the city blocks surrounding a requested address."
"Hoping to become a more popular Internet destination, a small search engine owned by Web retailer Amazon.com Inc. is testing a mapping service that will display street-level photos of the city blocks surrounding a requested address."
BizReport - Online Tutoring Part of Growing Trend
BizReport - Online Tutoring Part of Growing Trend:
"Once a dot-com pipe dream, online education is now maturing into a viable market."
"Once a dot-com pipe dream, online education is now maturing into a viable market."
New York Times - Comics Escape a Paper Box, and Electronic Questions Pop Out
New York Times - Comics Escape a Paper Box, and Electronic Questions Pop Out:
"A few years ago, Scott McCloud, well known in the comic book world for his theoretically minded comic book about comics, 'Understanding Comics,' wrote another comic book, 'Reinventing Comics,' in which he argued that the future of comics is on the Web."
"A few years ago, Scott McCloud, well known in the comic book world for his theoretically minded comic book about comics, 'Understanding Comics,' wrote another comic book, 'Reinventing Comics,' in which he argued that the future of comics is on the Web."
ProjectorCentral News - Sony Develops Silicon Crystal Display Technology For Full HD Video Applications
ProjectorCentral News - Sony Develops Silicon Crystal Display Technology For Full HD Video Applications:
"NEW YORK, N.Y., Feb. 27, 2003 - Sony Electronics provided a technical briefing today related to the development of Silicon Crystal [X-tal] Reflective Display (SXRD), a new display technology that delivers full high-definition resolution (1920 x 1080) on a display panel, with over 3000:1 contrast ratio. The company demonstrated how SXRD technology provides smooth, film-like picture quality unavailable in previous fixed pixel displays."
"NEW YORK, N.Y., Feb. 27, 2003 - Sony Electronics provided a technical briefing today related to the development of Silicon Crystal [X-tal] Reflective Display (SXRD), a new display technology that delivers full high-definition resolution (1920 x 1080) on a display panel, with over 3000:1 contrast ratio. The company demonstrated how SXRD technology provides smooth, film-like picture quality unavailable in previous fixed pixel displays."
Macworld News - LaCie unveils 2 Terabyte hard drives
Macworld News - LaCie unveils 2 Terabyte hard drives:
"Hard drive maker LaCie on Tuesday announced the fourth-generation of its popular d2 line of external hard drives. The new drives are now available in capacities from 160GB to 2TB and speeds up to 88MB/s per drive and 800Mbits/s per bus. The new d2 drives also come with triple interface FireWire 800, FireWire 400 and Hi-Speed USB 2.0 connectivity. The drives are available immediately and range in price from US$179 to $2299."
"Hard drive maker LaCie on Tuesday announced the fourth-generation of its popular d2 line of external hard drives. The new drives are now available in capacities from 160GB to 2TB and speeds up to 88MB/s per drive and 800Mbits/s per bus. The new d2 drives also come with triple interface FireWire 800, FireWire 400 and Hi-Speed USB 2.0 connectivity. The drives are available immediately and range in price from US$179 to $2299."
The Christian Science Monitor - Web access may be as close as an electrical outlet
The Christian Science Monitor - Web access may be as close as an electrical outlet: "Those wanting high-speed access to the Internet essentially have two choices: Buy it from a cable TV company or from the local telephone company."
Via Reveries
Via Reveries
T3 - Robots get covered in skin
T3 - Robots get covered in skin:
"Some can run, others can track your movements, and there are even ones that can vacuum the lounge and clean your pool. The rise of the robots is in full swing people, and now they're in line for a serious upgrade - robot skin! This new invention will enable them to feel pressure and temperature."
"Some can run, others can track your movements, and there are even ones that can vacuum the lounge and clean your pool. The rise of the robots is in full swing people, and now they're in line for a serious upgrade - robot skin! This new invention will enable them to feel pressure and temperature."
Tuesday, August 16, 2005
Business 2.0 - Free Wi-Fi? Get Ready for GoogleNet.
Business 2.0 - Free Wi-Fi? Get Ready for GoogleNet.:
"What if Google (GOOG) wanted to give Wi-Fi access to everyone in America? And what if it had technology capable of targeting advertising to a user’s precise location? The gatekeeper of the world’s information could become one of the globe’s biggest Internet providers and one of its most powerful ad sellers, basically supplanting telecoms in one fell swoop. Sounds crazy, but how might Google go about it?"
Via Engadget <- LIVEdigitally Newsletter
"What if Google (GOOG) wanted to give Wi-Fi access to everyone in America? And what if it had technology capable of targeting advertising to a user’s precise location? The gatekeeper of the world’s information could become one of the globe’s biggest Internet providers and one of its most powerful ad sellers, basically supplanting telecoms in one fell swoop. Sounds crazy, but how might Google go about it?"
Via Engadget <- LIVEdigitally Newsletter
New York Times - Adding Glass-Box Minimalism to Midwestern Downtown
New York Times - Adding Glass-Box Minimalism to Midwestern Downtown:
"DAVENPORT, Iowa - Whatever you think of Minimalist architecture - sleek and sexy or cold and impersonal - it's hard to deny its remarkable durability in the art world. For decades it has been the preferred style of art dealers and curators, as conservative in its way as the 19th-century salon tradition. Its familiarity only adds to its main virtue: the ability to instantly imbue an art institution with a gloss of cultural sophistication."
"DAVENPORT, Iowa - Whatever you think of Minimalist architecture - sleek and sexy or cold and impersonal - it's hard to deny its remarkable durability in the art world. For decades it has been the preferred style of art dealers and curators, as conservative in its way as the 19th-century salon tradition. Its familiarity only adds to its main virtue: the ability to instantly imbue an art institution with a gloss of cultural sophistication."
Monday, August 15, 2005
Walken 2008 - Official Website
Walken 2008 - Official Website:
"These are the issues that need solutions now, and Christopher Walken is not afraid to address them. He wants his supporters and opponents to know that he is clear in his ideals and will fight to lead America to a better place."
"These are the issues that need solutions now, and Christopher Walken is not afraid to address them. He wants his supporters and opponents to know that he is clear in his ideals and will fight to lead America to a better place."
BizReport - Digital service BurnLounge makes anyone a retailer
BizReport - Digital service BurnLounge makes anyone a retailer:
"The Web-based service provides the music library, e-commerce tools and business management software for virtually anyone to own and operate their own digital download store. The company's founders hope to recruit everyday music fans, allowing each to decide which acts they want to feature and promote, as a sort of digital guerrilla marketing play."
"The Web-based service provides the music library, e-commerce tools and business management software for virtually anyone to own and operate their own digital download store. The company's founders hope to recruit everyday music fans, allowing each to decide which acts they want to feature and promote, as a sort of digital guerrilla marketing play."
Forbes - Safer And Guilt-Free Nano Foods
Forbes - Safer And Guilt-Free Nano Foods:
"Over the past few years, nanotech has rapidly become a significant ingredient in the food industry, in applications ranging from smart packaging to interactive foods. Virtually every major food company is involved in nanotech R&D, and the first wave of products is now hitting the market. This is only the beginning, and it's clear that this is an area where nanotech is going to take hold in a big way."
Via Reveries
"Over the past few years, nanotech has rapidly become a significant ingredient in the food industry, in applications ranging from smart packaging to interactive foods. Virtually every major food company is involved in nanotech R&D, and the first wave of products is now hitting the market. This is only the beginning, and it's clear that this is an area where nanotech is going to take hold in a big way."
Via Reveries
New Scientist - Nasal spray clears Alzheimer’s brain plaques
New Scientist - Nasal spray clears Alzheimer’s brain plaques:
"A new nasal vaccine for Alzheimer’s disease has cleared plaques from the brains of affected mice and will be tested in humans in 2006."
Via KurzweilAI.net
"A new nasal vaccine for Alzheimer’s disease has cleared plaques from the brains of affected mice and will be tested in humans in 2006."
Via KurzweilAI.net
New Scientist - Pig cell implants in Huntington's trial
New Scientist - Pig cell implants in Huntington's trial:
"PIG brain cells could be implanted into human brains by the start of next year if trials of a pioneering treatment for Huntington's disease are approved in the US."
Via KurzweilAI.net
"PIG brain cells could be implanted into human brains by the start of next year if trials of a pioneering treatment for Huntington's disease are approved in the US."
Via KurzweilAI.net
New Scientist - HIV breakthrough raises hopes for a cure
New Scientist - HIV breakthrough raises hopes for a cure:
"A cheap drug has shown promise in stamping out hidden pockets of HIV in three people who have long been infected with the virus."
Via KurzweilAI.net
"A cheap drug has shown promise in stamping out hidden pockets of HIV in three people who have long been infected with the virus."
Via KurzweilAI.net
news @ nature - Climate argument solved?
news @ nature - Climate argument solved?:
"The end may be in sight for a 15-year argument over a discrepancy in the data on global warming."
"The end may be in sight for a 15-year argument over a discrepancy in the data on global warming."
informitv - Veoh Networks aims to launch broadband P2P TV network
informitv - Veoh Networks aims to launch broadband P2P TV network:
"Veoh Networks in San Diego has raised initial funding to launch a peer-to-peer television content delivery network it says will redefine television by allowing anyone to broadcast television quality video using broadband."
"Veoh Networks in San Diego has raised initial funding to launch a peer-to-peer television content delivery network it says will redefine television by allowing anyone to broadcast television quality video using broadband."
IBM Research - SoulPad
IBM Research - SoulPad:
"SoulPad is a portable storage device containing the software stack shown below. The three-layer SoulPad software stack enables a paradigm of mobile computing where a user can suspend his computing environment on one PC and resume it on another PC that he may have never seen before. The PC boots an auto-configuring operating system from the SoulPad, starts a virtual machine monitor, and resumes a suspended virtual machine that has the user's entire personal computing environment, which includes the user's files, user's operating system, installed applications, desktop configuration as well as all running applications and open windows."
Via Thinking Materials
"SoulPad is a portable storage device containing the software stack shown below. The three-layer SoulPad software stack enables a paradigm of mobile computing where a user can suspend his computing environment on one PC and resume it on another PC that he may have never seen before. The PC boots an auto-configuring operating system from the SoulPad, starts a virtual machine monitor, and resumes a suspended virtual machine that has the user's entire personal computing environment, which includes the user's files, user's operating system, installed applications, desktop configuration as well as all running applications and open windows."
Via Thinking Materials
GreenBiz News - Fujitsu Develops World's First Bioplastic Computer Cases
GreenBiz News - Fujitsu Develops World's First Bioplastic Computer Cases:
"TOKYO, Aug. 11, 2005 - Japan's Fujitsu Ltd, Fujitsu Laboratories, Ltd., and Toray Industries Inc. succeeded in joint development of a large case made of bioplastics, featured in Fujitsu's spring 2005 models of notebook computers, named FMV-BIBLO NB80K. This is the first time in the world that bioplastics made from corn starch were used in computer parts. The new technology can reduce by about one liter the consumption of petroleum in the production of a notebook personal computer."
"TOKYO, Aug. 11, 2005 - Japan's Fujitsu Ltd, Fujitsu Laboratories, Ltd., and Toray Industries Inc. succeeded in joint development of a large case made of bioplastics, featured in Fujitsu's spring 2005 models of notebook computers, named FMV-BIBLO NB80K. This is the first time in the world that bioplastics made from corn starch were used in computer parts. The new technology can reduce by about one liter the consumption of petroleum in the production of a notebook personal computer."
ScienceDaily - Tiny Roundworm's Telomeres Help Scientists To Tease Apart Different Types Of Aging
ScienceDaily - Tiny Roundworm's Telomeres Help Scientists To Tease Apart Different Types Of Aging:
"The continual and inevitable shortening of telomeres, the protective 'caps' at the end of all 46 human chromosomes, has been linked to aging and physical decline. Once they are gone, so are we. But there are more ways than one to grow old."
Via Longevity Meme Newsletter
"The continual and inevitable shortening of telomeres, the protective 'caps' at the end of all 46 human chromosomes, has been linked to aging and physical decline. Once they are gone, so are we. But there are more ways than one to grow old."
Via Longevity Meme Newsletter
Sunday, August 14, 2005
HotelChatter - Temporary Hotel Design
HotelChatter - Temporary Hotel Design:
"Montreal architecture students Lee Ferguson and Jonathan Whittaker have concocted a 26-room 'temporary' concept hotel called 'The Ten Year Hotel.' The theory is when it gets old you can change the design, or scrap it all together."
"Montreal architecture students Lee Ferguson and Jonathan Whittaker have concocted a 26-room 'temporary' concept hotel called 'The Ten Year Hotel.' The theory is when it gets old you can change the design, or scrap it all together."
CSIRO SOLVE - A Brighter Wash
CSIRO SOLVE - A Brighter Wash:
"Washing machines have been around for a long time, but there is room for technical advances in even the most familiar household equipment. A top-loading washing machine with a 9.5-kilogram capacity, that is efficient and quiet and operates with minimal vibration, will enter Australian stores after a long-running R&D venture between CSIRO and Electrolux."
"Washing machines have been around for a long time, but there is room for technical advances in even the most familiar household equipment. A top-loading washing machine with a 9.5-kilogram capacity, that is efficient and quiet and operates with minimal vibration, will enter Australian stores after a long-running R&D venture between CSIRO and Electrolux."
CSIRO SOLVE - Now That's a Smart Suit
CSIRO SOLVE - Now That's a Smart Suit:
"Tomorrow’s clothes could have durable electronic circuitry incorporated into the fabric. The ability to weave threads of electronic wizardry into fabric means the IQ of textiles is rising sharply; dressing smartly will soon mean more than merely wearing the latest fashion. And thanks to the efforts of two researchers, smart garments will be tough, too."
"Tomorrow’s clothes could have durable electronic circuitry incorporated into the fabric. The ability to weave threads of electronic wizardry into fabric means the IQ of textiles is rising sharply; dressing smartly will soon mean more than merely wearing the latest fashion. And thanks to the efforts of two researchers, smart garments will be tough, too."
amor mundi - Saving My Bacon
amor mundi - Saving My Bacon:
"So, when I read an article about the near-term prospect of meat grown in vats from a single animal cell 'When Meat Is Not Murder,' by Ian Sample in yesterday's UK Guardian my very first thought was... Ethical bacon? Sign me up!"
Via Cyborg Democracy Newsletter
"So, when I read an article about the near-term prospect of meat grown in vats from a single animal cell 'When Meat Is Not Murder,' by Ian Sample in yesterday's UK Guardian my very first thought was... Ethical bacon? Sign me up!"
Via Cyborg Democracy Newsletter
spiked - Alone sharks
spiked - Alone sharks:
"In an article headlined 'Single living is the new way to find happiness', The Times (London) reports on the findings of Solo's Holidays survey. Eighty-two per cent of the singletons questioned said that being single gave them 'an opportunity to try new life experiences', and 89 per cent said that travelling alone 'boosted their confidence'. Ninety-three per cent agreed that the government should do more to recognise the importance of the growing single population (1)."
"In an article headlined 'Single living is the new way to find happiness', The Times (London) reports on the findings of Solo's Holidays survey. Eighty-two per cent of the singletons questioned said that being single gave them 'an opportunity to try new life experiences', and 89 per cent said that travelling alone 'boosted their confidence'. Ninety-three per cent agreed that the government should do more to recognise the importance of the growing single population (1)."
Saturday, August 13, 2005
Adrants - President Bush Sells Pizza in New Zealand
Adrants - President Bush Sells Pizza in New Zealand:
"Photo usage rights aside, President George Bush appears on a billboard which promotes a New Zealand pizza chain called Hell. Likely capitalizing on anti-American feelings, the board reads, 'Hell. Too Good For Some Evil Bastards.' Once George sees this, it's only a matter of time before a smart bomb finds its way across the globe and through this billboard."
"Photo usage rights aside, President George Bush appears on a billboard which promotes a New Zealand pizza chain called Hell. Likely capitalizing on anti-American feelings, the board reads, 'Hell. Too Good For Some Evil Bastards.' Once George sees this, it's only a matter of time before a smart bomb finds its way across the globe and through this billboard."
Engadget - BlackDog Linux: a real pocket PC
Engadget - BlackDog Linux: a real pocket PC:
"At first glance, the BlackDog Mobile Personal Server looks like yet another USB flash drive dolled up with a Linux distro. Turns out, however, that this really is a computer-on-a-stick, unlike Finger Gear and Pertec’s recent offerings. Yes, it’s flash-based like the others. But BlackDog is an actual working computer, with a 400 MHz Power PC processor, 64MB of RAM, biometric security and either 256MB or 512MB onboard storage. Like the other flash-based systems out there, BlackDog still requires a host PC to operate, but it doesn’t rely on that PC’s processor or RAM to function; all the work is done on the palm-sized box. At $199 for 256MB and $239 for 512MB, BlackDog could be a good solution if you need a secure, ultra-portable Linux system that you can set up anywhere — though, of course, if you don’t need the security features and just need a bootable distro, the other flash solutions may do the trick at a lower price."
"At first glance, the BlackDog Mobile Personal Server looks like yet another USB flash drive dolled up with a Linux distro. Turns out, however, that this really is a computer-on-a-stick, unlike Finger Gear and Pertec’s recent offerings. Yes, it’s flash-based like the others. But BlackDog is an actual working computer, with a 400 MHz Power PC processor, 64MB of RAM, biometric security and either 256MB or 512MB onboard storage. Like the other flash-based systems out there, BlackDog still requires a host PC to operate, but it doesn’t rely on that PC’s processor or RAM to function; all the work is done on the palm-sized box. At $199 for 256MB and $239 for 512MB, BlackDog could be a good solution if you need a secure, ultra-portable Linux system that you can set up anywhere — though, of course, if you don’t need the security features and just need a bootable distro, the other flash solutions may do the trick at a lower price."
eHomeUpgrade - Digital Terrestrial TV and Free-to-Air Satellite Services to Drive PC-TV Tuners
eHomeUpgrade - Digital Terrestrial TV and Free-to-Air Satellite Services to Drive PC-TV Tuners:
"Digital Terrestrial TV (DTT) and Free-to-Air Satellite TV services will give the PC-TV tuner market a huge boost over the next several years, reports In-Stat. By 2009, the worldwide retail value of the PC-TV tuner market is expected to reach $3.7 billion, with a Compound Annual Growth Rate of 42.6%, the high-tech market research firm says."
Via LIVEdigitally Newsletter
"Digital Terrestrial TV (DTT) and Free-to-Air Satellite TV services will give the PC-TV tuner market a huge boost over the next several years, reports In-Stat. By 2009, the worldwide retail value of the PC-TV tuner market is expected to reach $3.7 billion, with a Compound Annual Growth Rate of 42.6%, the high-tech market research firm says."
Via LIVEdigitally Newsletter
UPS Pressroom - UPS Survey Finds that Chinese Consumers Want More American Products
UPS Pressroom - UPS Survey Finds that Chinese Consumers Want More American Products:
"UPS sponsored a public opinion poll of China's emerging urban middle class, which found that Chinese consumers want to buy more American products. High-quality personal care toiletries and consumer electronics lead the list of most desired items with apparel, fashion accessories, music and videos close behind. The items drawing the least interest were American cigarettes and liquor."
Via Wave Report Newsletter
"UPS sponsored a public opinion poll of China's emerging urban middle class, which found that Chinese consumers want to buy more American products. High-quality personal care toiletries and consumer electronics lead the list of most desired items with apparel, fashion accessories, music and videos close behind. The items drawing the least interest were American cigarettes and liquor."
Via Wave Report Newsletter
Interior Design - White Nights
Interior Design - White Nights:
"The way Swiss architect Gus Wüstemann sees it, most apartments forfeit valuable square footage when kitchens, stairways, entrance halls, and other utilitarian areas are restricted to their specified functions. 'Why waste 40 percent of your space on activities you do only once a day?' asks the principal of his namesake firm. So it's no surprise that his plans for a loft conversion in the attic of a historic house in Lucerne, Switzerland, involved integrating many normally discrete functional elements into a seamless whole."
"The way Swiss architect Gus Wüstemann sees it, most apartments forfeit valuable square footage when kitchens, stairways, entrance halls, and other utilitarian areas are restricted to their specified functions. 'Why waste 40 percent of your space on activities you do only once a day?' asks the principal of his namesake firm. So it's no surprise that his plans for a loft conversion in the attic of a historic house in Lucerne, Switzerland, involved integrating many normally discrete functional elements into a seamless whole."
Interior Design - High Performance Schools: Good for Students—Good for the Environment
Interior Design - High Performance Schools: Good for Students—Good for the Environment:
"Since its release, the CHPS (pronounced 'chips') criteria have become the de facto guideline for the design of schools that are energy efficient, environmentally sound and conducive to occupant well-being and peak performance. It is specifically targeted to California schools and students but its resources are available to everyone and are being used nationwide. In fact, a training program, created by the New York State Energy Research and Development Authority (NYSERDA) relies on the structure and content of CHPS."
"Since its release, the CHPS (pronounced 'chips') criteria have become the de facto guideline for the design of schools that are energy efficient, environmentally sound and conducive to occupant well-being and peak performance. It is specifically targeted to California schools and students but its resources are available to everyone and are being used nationwide. In fact, a training program, created by the New York State Energy Research and Development Authority (NYSERDA) relies on the structure and content of CHPS."
Interior Design - Hometown Heroes
Interior Design - Hometown Heroes:
"Some heavy hitters in architecture and design have left their mark, albeit a long time ago, in the Motor City and surrounding areas of Michigan. From the early 1900's to the 1960's, Albert Kahn, Ludwig Mies van der Rohe, and Minoru Yamasaki, to name a few, erected buildings that today are still standing. Abandoned and decrepit, architects Douglas McIntosh and Michael Poris are spearheading the restoration of these historic structures while simultaneously reviving downtown Detroit."
"Some heavy hitters in architecture and design have left their mark, albeit a long time ago, in the Motor City and surrounding areas of Michigan. From the early 1900's to the 1960's, Albert Kahn, Ludwig Mies van der Rohe, and Minoru Yamasaki, to name a few, erected buildings that today are still standing. Abandoned and decrepit, architects Douglas McIntosh and Michael Poris are spearheading the restoration of these historic structures while simultaneously reviving downtown Detroit."
LA Downtown News - Grand Ave. Building to Become Boutique Hotel
LA Downtown News - Grand Ave. Building to Become Boutique Hotel:
"A New York-based development firm plans to turn the vacant Embassy Hotel and Theater at 851 S. Grand Ave. into a 175-room boutique hotel. Kristen Hammer, a spokeswoman for WSA Management, said plans are in the early phases for converting the 91-year-old building. It marks the first West Coast project for Long Island-based WSA, which made a name for itself in 2004 with the opening of the Hotel Gansevoort, a swanky 187-room boutique hotel in New York City's meatpacking district. The Embassy was designed by architect Thornton Fitzhugh and is recognizable for the four-story Baroque dome on its roof. The steel and concrete building has served, at various points, as a hotel, church and a USC facility. As the Trinity Theater, it was the home of the Los Angeles Philharmonic in 1919."
"A New York-based development firm plans to turn the vacant Embassy Hotel and Theater at 851 S. Grand Ave. into a 175-room boutique hotel. Kristen Hammer, a spokeswoman for WSA Management, said plans are in the early phases for converting the 91-year-old building. It marks the first West Coast project for Long Island-based WSA, which made a name for itself in 2004 with the opening of the Hotel Gansevoort, a swanky 187-room boutique hotel in New York City's meatpacking district. The Embassy was designed by architect Thornton Fitzhugh and is recognizable for the four-story Baroque dome on its roof. The steel and concrete building has served, at various points, as a hotel, church and a USC facility. As the Trinity Theater, it was the home of the Los Angeles Philharmonic in 1919."
I4U News - Adidas Polar Project Fusion
I4U News - Adidas Polar Project Fusion:
"Adidas and Polar developed world’s first completely integrated training system dubbed Project Fusion."
"Adidas and Polar developed world’s first completely integrated training system dubbed Project Fusion."
Friday, August 12, 2005
Yorkshire Post Today - Now Ikea Ready to Launch the Self-Assembly Home in the UK
Yorkshire Post Today - Now Ikea Ready to Launch the Self-Assembly Home in the UK:
"FURNITURE company Ikea is behind a range of Scandinavian-style timber-framed apartments that arrive on the back of a lorry and could ease Britain's affordable housing crisis."
Via Reveries
"FURNITURE company Ikea is behind a range of Scandinavian-style timber-framed apartments that arrive on the back of a lorry and could ease Britain's affordable housing crisis."
Via Reveries
Coming Soon! - Karl Urban Talks About Doom
Coming Soon! - Karl Urban Talks About Doom:
"For starters, it's going to be R-rated, and unapologetically violent, and for the main course, it's got FPS. And if you haven't played the game before, we should tell you that means First Person Shooter, debuted in an astonishing sequence (which Empire first saw at the San Diego Comic-Con) in which we, the audience, see the action through Grimm's eyes as he stalks the corridors of the Martian facility armed with a huge gun, blasting beasties left, right and centre."
"For starters, it's going to be R-rated, and unapologetically violent, and for the main course, it's got FPS. And if you haven't played the game before, we should tell you that means First Person Shooter, debuted in an astonishing sequence (which Empire first saw at the San Diego Comic-Con) in which we, the audience, see the action through Grimm's eyes as he stalks the corridors of the Martian facility armed with a huge gun, blasting beasties left, right and centre."
eWeek - Splunk Brings Google-Like Search to the Data Center
eWeek - Splunk Brings Google-Like Search to the Data Center:
"A band of search gurus on Monday announced what they claim is the first search engine designed for rifling through machine code in order to troubleshoot the data center."
"A band of search gurus on Monday announced what they claim is the first search engine designed for rifling through machine code in order to troubleshoot the data center."
Science & Technology - When Extinct Isn't
Science & Technology - When Extinct Isn't:
"The video images may be tiny, grainy, dark and fleeting, but many looking at them see something glorious: evidence that at least one ivory-billed woodpecker--an 18- to 20-inch-tall bird with a wingspan of some 30 inches, last seen in the U.S. in 1944--is alive in the bottomland forest of eastern Arkansas. After a year of traipsing and canoeing through the Big Woods and its bayous, many inconclusive recordings of ivory-bill-like calls, seven good sightings and one fortuitous videotaping, scientists and conservationists announced in April that the bird was not extinct after all."
"The video images may be tiny, grainy, dark and fleeting, but many looking at them see something glorious: evidence that at least one ivory-billed woodpecker--an 18- to 20-inch-tall bird with a wingspan of some 30 inches, last seen in the U.S. in 1944--is alive in the bottomland forest of eastern Arkansas. After a year of traipsing and canoeing through the Big Woods and its bayous, many inconclusive recordings of ivory-bill-like calls, seven good sightings and one fortuitous videotaping, scientists and conservationists announced in April that the bird was not extinct after all."
Science News - Double Dog: Researchers produce first cloned canine
Science News - Double Dog: Researchers produce first cloned canine:
"The dogged pursuit of a South Korean research team has produced the world's first surviving cloned canine. The new puppy—dubbed Snuppy by the scientists after its birth at Seoul National University on April 24—is the genetic double of a 3-year-old male Afghan hound."
"The dogged pursuit of a South Korean research team has produced the world's first surviving cloned canine. The new puppy—dubbed Snuppy by the scientists after its birth at Seoul National University on April 24—is the genetic double of a 3-year-old male Afghan hound."
LinuxDevices - Unmanned Linux sub named "Best Newcomer" in student competition
LinuxDevices - Unmanned Linux sub named "Best Newcomer" in student competition:
"A Linux-powered robot submarine dubbed Mongoose and built by students from the Georgia Institute of Technology was named Best Newcomer in the eighth annual Association for Unmanned Vehicle Systems International (AUVSI) Autonomous Underwater Vehicle Competition, held in San Diego last weekend. Captained by graduate student John 'Jack' Griffin, the GT team took home a $1,000 prize for its efforts."
"A Linux-powered robot submarine dubbed Mongoose and built by students from the Georgia Institute of Technology was named Best Newcomer in the eighth annual Association for Unmanned Vehicle Systems International (AUVSI) Autonomous Underwater Vehicle Competition, held in San Diego last weekend. Captained by graduate student John 'Jack' Griffin, the GT team took home a $1,000 prize for its efforts."
LinuxDevices - Wyse debuts, demos compact yet powerful Linux thin client
LinuxDevices - Wyse debuts, demos compact yet powerful Linux thin client:
"Wyse Technology debuted a compact yet powerful Linux-based thin-client at LinuxWorld today, and announced a 1,900 unit deployment of the device by a major European health insurance provider. The compact Winterm V50 boasts a 1GHz x86 processor and measures just 7.9 x 7.1 x 1.8 inches (201 x 180 x 46 mm)."
"Wyse Technology debuted a compact yet powerful Linux-based thin-client at LinuxWorld today, and announced a 1,900 unit deployment of the device by a major European health insurance provider. The compact Winterm V50 boasts a 1GHz x86 processor and measures just 7.9 x 7.1 x 1.8 inches (201 x 180 x 46 mm)."
LinuxDevices - Device Profile: Drew Tech ScanDAQ
LinuxDevices - Device Profile: Drew Tech ScanDAQ:
"Drew Technologies has used embedded Linux to build what it calls the 'world's first open technology automotive scanning tool.' The ScanDAQ ('data acquisition') is a ruggedized handheld device designed to run J2534-compliant software, enabling mechanics to reflash or modify automotive ECUs (electronic control units). The device could help create third-party and even open source J2534 (defined below) software markets that make today's computerized cars easier to modify and fix."
"Drew Technologies has used embedded Linux to build what it calls the 'world's first open technology automotive scanning tool.' The ScanDAQ ('data acquisition') is a ruggedized handheld device designed to run J2534-compliant software, enabling mechanics to reflash or modify automotive ECUs (electronic control units). The device could help create third-party and even open source J2534 (defined below) software markets that make today's computerized cars easier to modify and fix."
MarketingVOX - Gamers Learn to Turn Off In-Game Ads
MarketingVOX - Gamers Learn to Turn Off In-Game Ads:
"Two SWAT4 online gamers have figured out a way to turn off the ads served in real time by Massive and have posted the steps online, MIT Advertising Lab reports (via MediaBuyerPlanner). The gamers' report outlines all of the information Massive is making available to its advertisers. Here's a sample: 'A single HTTP request is sent by our game client to signify that the game has ended. A timestamp and our session/gamer ids are sent. This sort of information gives the advertisers a more complete idea of how long we play, and at what times of the day, and enough information for them to calculate any patterns. They could even determine what levels are more popular and maybe charge more for advertisers to get advertising space in these levels.'"
Via Ypulse
"Two SWAT4 online gamers have figured out a way to turn off the ads served in real time by Massive and have posted the steps online, MIT Advertising Lab reports (via MediaBuyerPlanner). The gamers' report outlines all of the information Massive is making available to its advertisers. Here's a sample: 'A single HTTP request is sent by our game client to signify that the game has ended. A timestamp and our session/gamer ids are sent. This sort of information gives the advertisers a more complete idea of how long we play, and at what times of the day, and enough information for them to calculate any patterns. They could even determine what levels are more popular and maybe charge more for advertisers to get advertising space in these levels.'"
Via Ypulse
Thursday, August 11, 2005
BizReport - AOL Wins Judgment Against Spammers
BizReport - AOL Wins Judgment Against Spammers:
"America Online Inc. won a $13 million judgment yesterday against a prominent spam gang in its first case filed under a law allowing seizure of spammers' assets."
"America Online Inc. won a $13 million judgment yesterday against a prominent spam gang in its first case filed under a law allowing seizure of spammers' assets."
eMarketer Daily - Thinking Outside the "Box"
eMarketer Daily - Thinking Outside the "Box":
"A new eMarketer report explores the technologies and dynamics that will change broadcasting, communications and advertising forever."
"A new eMarketer report explores the technologies and dynamics that will change broadcasting, communications and advertising forever."
Wired News - NYC: See How the Wind Blows
Wired News - NYC: See How the Wind Blows:
"NEW YORK -- Government scientists who want to find out how fast and far a chemical attack could move through a city will release colorless, harmless gases in subways, an office building and some of Manhattan's most crowded streets to see which way the wind blows them."
Via Future Feeder
"NEW YORK -- Government scientists who want to find out how fast and far a chemical attack could move through a city will release colorless, harmless gases in subways, an office building and some of Manhattan's most crowded streets to see which way the wind blows them."
Via Future Feeder
Wednesday, August 10, 2005
Yahoo! News - The Hidden Costs of Dual-Core Processors
Yahoo! News - The Hidden Costs of Dual-Core Processors:
"The adoption of dual-core computing will be driven by the need to expand beyond the present limitations associated with existing single-core processors."
Via LIVEdigitally Newsletter
"The adoption of dual-core computing will be driven by the need to expand beyond the present limitations associated with existing single-core processors."
Via LIVEdigitally Newsletter
Tuesday, August 09, 2005
The Times Online - What are . . . 'Yeppies'?
The Times Online - What are . . . 'Yeppies'?:
"The drift towards life shopping, according to the researchers, can explain the rise of the singleton. In 1971, the average age at first marriage was 25 for men and 23 for women. By 2003, this had increased to 31 for men and 29 for women. The growth of the yeppie also helps to explain the “boomerang” generation of young adults who, after a spell in the cold world of adulthood, head straight back to the family home. In 2004 around a quarter of women between the ages of 25 and 29 and two fifths of men within that age group were still living with their parents. By 2012, according to the Social Issues Research Centre, there will be an increasing acceptance of prolonged adolescence; it will be entirely normal for people — even those in their late twenties — to remain ensconced in the family home."
Via Reveries
"The drift towards life shopping, according to the researchers, can explain the rise of the singleton. In 1971, the average age at first marriage was 25 for men and 23 for women. By 2003, this had increased to 31 for men and 29 for women. The growth of the yeppie also helps to explain the “boomerang” generation of young adults who, after a spell in the cold world of adulthood, head straight back to the family home. In 2004 around a quarter of women between the ages of 25 and 29 and two fifths of men within that age group were still living with their parents. By 2012, according to the Social Issues Research Centre, there will be an increasing acceptance of prolonged adolescence; it will be entirely normal for people — even those in their late twenties — to remain ensconced in the family home."
Via Reveries
Medical News Today - Gene Expression in the Aging Brain
Mediac News Today - Gene Expression in the Aging Brain:
"While medical science and a healthy lifestyle can help increase life expectancy, many aspects of aging and longevity are beyond our control. Published this week in the open-access journal PLoS Biology, Michael Eisen and colleagues shed light on these genetic factors by identifying sets of genes whose expression changes with age in human and chimp brains. "
Via Longevity Meme Newsletter
"While medical science and a healthy lifestyle can help increase life expectancy, many aspects of aging and longevity are beyond our control. Published this week in the open-access journal PLoS Biology, Michael Eisen and colleagues shed light on these genetic factors by identifying sets of genes whose expression changes with age in human and chimp brains. "
Via Longevity Meme Newsletter
EurekAlert! - Tissue regeneration operates differently than expected
EurekAlert! - Tissue regeneration operates differently than expected:
"There is disagreement, however, about the mechanism on which repair processes are based. Scientists from the Max Planck Institute for Heart and Lung Research in Bad Nauheim, Germany, in co-operation with colleagues from Martin Luther University in Halle-Wittenberg, have now shown that skeletal muscle tissue can fuse with adult stem cells, via a mechanism based on the participation of mediators which are generally involved in immune cell activation. Although being unable to transdifferentiate into completely functional muscle cells, they are integrated into the tissue complex by fusing with differentiated tissue cells. In contrast, in the heart muscle tissue the mechanism seems to be different from this. The scientists in Bad Nauheim conclude from their study that adult stem cells are involved in tissue repair processes in a paracrine way by delivering mediating factors rather than by simply becoming components of the regenerating organ. (Genes & Development, August 2005)."
Via Longevity Meme Newsletter
"There is disagreement, however, about the mechanism on which repair processes are based. Scientists from the Max Planck Institute for Heart and Lung Research in Bad Nauheim, Germany, in co-operation with colleagues from Martin Luther University in Halle-Wittenberg, have now shown that skeletal muscle tissue can fuse with adult stem cells, via a mechanism based on the participation of mediators which are generally involved in immune cell activation. Although being unable to transdifferentiate into completely functional muscle cells, they are integrated into the tissue complex by fusing with differentiated tissue cells. In contrast, in the heart muscle tissue the mechanism seems to be different from this. The scientists in Bad Nauheim conclude from their study that adult stem cells are involved in tissue repair processes in a paracrine way by delivering mediating factors rather than by simply becoming components of the regenerating organ. (Genes & Development, August 2005)."
Via Longevity Meme Newsletter
Betterhumans - Telomeres don't dictate lifespan, worms show
Betterhumans - Telomeres don't dictate lifespan, worms show: "Researchers are claiming to have found 'conclusive evidence' that the link between longevity and chromosome caps called telomeres is more complicated than thought."
Via Longevity Meme Newsletter
Via Longevity Meme Newsletter
Promo - Pepsi Brings Lounge to Area Malls
Promo - Pepsi Brings Lounge to Area Malls:
"PepsiCo has teamed up with Chicago-based GGP to feature the Pepsi Zone, a lounge-like environment for teens, at three malls—Pembroke Lakes Mall in Miami, FL, Northridge Fashion Center in Los Angeles and Spring Hill Mall in Chicago. The Pepsi Zone lounges opened on Saturday."
Via Ypulse
"PepsiCo has teamed up with Chicago-based GGP to feature the Pepsi Zone, a lounge-like environment for teens, at three malls—Pembroke Lakes Mall in Miami, FL, Northridge Fashion Center in Los Angeles and Spring Hill Mall in Chicago. The Pepsi Zone lounges opened on Saturday."
Via Ypulse
KurzweilAI.net - AI-based 'Previewseek' search engine launched
KurzweilAI.net - AI-based 'Previewseek' search engine launched:
"Previewseek Limited has launched an AI-based search engine, Previewseek.com.
Its AI algorithms improve searching, the company claims. It "understands" the meanings of words, distinguishes between unbiased and commercial content, and generates visual "previews" of search result pages.
The Previewseek.com site is at www.previewseek.com"
"Previewseek Limited has launched an AI-based search engine, Previewseek.com.
Its AI algorithms improve searching, the company claims. It "understands" the meanings of words, distinguishes between unbiased and commercial content, and generates visual "previews" of search result pages.
The Previewseek.com site is at www.previewseek.com"
ScienCentral - Nano Bones
ScienCentral - Nano Bones:
"Every year, millions of Americans injure a joint or break a bone. Now, as this ScienCentral News video explains, one researcher says that instead of replacing bone, he has found a material that might help bone grow back"
Via KurzweilAI.net
"Every year, millions of Americans injure a joint or break a bone. Now, as this ScienCentral News video explains, one researcher says that instead of replacing bone, he has found a material that might help bone grow back"
Via KurzweilAI.net
Yahoo! News - Carbon copy canine reignites ethical debate over human cloning
Yahoo! News - Carbon copy canine reignites ethical debate over human cloning:
"SEOUL (AFP) - The world's first cloning of a dog has raised concerns that scientists are one step closer to replicating human beings, despite the breakthrough pointing to treatments for currently-incurable human diseases."
Via KurzweilAI.net
"SEOUL (AFP) - The world's first cloning of a dog has raised concerns that scientists are one step closer to replicating human beings, despite the breakthrough pointing to treatments for currently-incurable human diseases."
Via KurzweilAI.net
CNET News - Bacteria froze the Earth, researchers say
CNET News - Bacteria froze the Earth, researchers say:
"Humans apparently aren't the first species to change the climate of the planet. Bacteria living 2.3 billion years ago could have plunged the planet into deep freeze, researchers at the California Institute of Technology claim in a new report."
Via KurzweilAI.net
"Humans apparently aren't the first species to change the climate of the planet. Bacteria living 2.3 billion years ago could have plunged the planet into deep freeze, researchers at the California Institute of Technology claim in a new report."
Via KurzweilAI.net
New York Times - Now, if My Software Only Had a Brain
New York Times - Now, if My Software Only Had a Brain:
"Soon after I stored my first file on my first computer, I began dreaming of how I could 'save time' through some automatic means of organizing the data I was salting away. That was back in the 70's, and the computer was the Processor Technology SOL-20, an elegant antique that was housed, like a Viennese music box, in a burled walnut case."
Via KurzweilAI.net
"Soon after I stored my first file on my first computer, I began dreaming of how I could 'save time' through some automatic means of organizing the data I was salting away. That was back in the 70's, and the computer was the Processor Technology SOL-20, an elegant antique that was housed, like a Viennese music box, in a burled walnut case."
Via KurzweilAI.net
The Tyee - Are You an Eco-Chump?
The Tyee - Are You an Eco-Chump?:
"Lots of us try to shop green. We buy unbleached paper towels and recycled products, some with more than 5 percent post-consumer content. Commend McDonald's for banning Styrofoam, and shun them for lying about beef fat in the fries. Save our paychecks because we suffer from Prius envy. Wouldn't be caught dead at Wal-Mart because, well, it's Wal-Mart. But a green consumer is still a consumer, and the evil marketing geniuses who run the world know this. They prey on our longings: love your mother, do well by doing good, live simply that others may simply live ... They put symbols of renewal on plastic packaging. They market products with terms the FDA has yet to define. They overcharge, because they know eco-chumps pay more, eagerly, if it helps us feel a reverent connection with all things."
Via Reveries
"Lots of us try to shop green. We buy unbleached paper towels and recycled products, some with more than 5 percent post-consumer content. Commend McDonald's for banning Styrofoam, and shun them for lying about beef fat in the fries. Save our paychecks because we suffer from Prius envy. Wouldn't be caught dead at Wal-Mart because, well, it's Wal-Mart. But a green consumer is still a consumer, and the evil marketing geniuses who run the world know this. They prey on our longings: love your mother, do well by doing good, live simply that others may simply live ... They put symbols of renewal on plastic packaging. They market products with terms the FDA has yet to define. They overcharge, because they know eco-chumps pay more, eagerly, if it helps us feel a reverent connection with all things."
Via Reveries
Wired News - Riding With the Urban Mappers
Wired News - Riding With the Urban Mappers:
"PALO ALTO, California -- 'I didn't think it could be done,' says Tim Caro-Brice, a Stanford University graduate student and pioneering member of Amazon.com's A9.com project team. Barnaby Dorfman, A9.com's vice president, laughs and taps the accelerator. A nondescript sport utility vehicle eases down a Palo Alto street, and the rest may be search engine history."
Via Reveries
"PALO ALTO, California -- 'I didn't think it could be done,' says Tim Caro-Brice, a Stanford University graduate student and pioneering member of Amazon.com's A9.com project team. Barnaby Dorfman, A9.com's vice president, laughs and taps the accelerator. A nondescript sport utility vehicle eases down a Palo Alto street, and the rest may be search engine history."
Via Reveries
Wired News - Hearing Aids for the Unimpaired
Wired News - Hearing Aids for the Unimpaired:
"LONDON -- Hearing aids are not just for deaf people. The much-maligned ear implants also hold the key to a new era in personal audio technology, designers say -- if only they can make them as fashionable as spectacles."
Via Reveries
"LONDON -- Hearing aids are not just for deaf people. The much-maligned ear implants also hold the key to a new era in personal audio technology, designers say -- if only they can make them as fashionable as spectacles."
Via Reveries
Wired News - Hearing Aids for the Unimpaired
Wired News - Hearing Aids for the Unimpaired:
"LONDON -- Hearing aids are not just for deaf people. The much-maligned ear implants also hold the key to a new era in personal audio technology, designers say -- if only they can make them as fashionable as spectacles."
Via Reveries
"LONDON -- Hearing aids are not just for deaf people. The much-maligned ear implants also hold the key to a new era in personal audio technology, designers say -- if only they can make them as fashionable as spectacles."
Via Reveries
Rocky Mountain News - With wave of a card, McDonald's making it easier to Pay, Pass
Rocky Mountain News - With wave of a card, McDonald's making it easier to Pay, Pass:
"McDonald's Corp. plans to expand to all U.S. stores the use of a new cash card that customers can wave in front of a machine to make payments in a matter of seconds."
Via Reveries
"McDonald's Corp. plans to expand to all U.S. stores the use of a new cash card that customers can wave in front of a machine to make payments in a matter of seconds."
Via Reveries
Monday, August 08, 2005
PSFK - Biometric Security At Airports
PSFK - Biometric Security At Airports:
"Orlando International Airport is in the midst of a 'security experiment' called CLEAR where for a fee of about US$80.00 a year you can submit yourself to a biometric scan as a personal Homeland Security 'threat assessment', Boing Boing reports."
"Orlando International Airport is in the midst of a 'security experiment' called CLEAR where for a fee of about US$80.00 a year you can submit yourself to a biometric scan as a personal Homeland Security 'threat assessment', Boing Boing reports."
A Weekly Dose of Architecture - Jian Wai SOHO
A Weekly Dose of Architecture - Jian Wai SOHO:
"Not only is China building like crazy these day, they are building BIG. The most populous country in the world is undertaking large-scale 'mega-projects' in an effort to rapidly industrialize and modernize. Many of these mega-projects are high-rise residential developments, designed to meet the country and local light and vent codes, but not much else. Their painted-concrete exteriors bend and turn to allow the required light and air into the appropriate spaces, such as bedrooms, but their sheer repetition of floors and building groups is a daunting and oppressive sight. One project that's set apart from the rest is the Jian Wai SOHO development in Beijing, designed by Japan's Riken Yamamoto and developed by SOHO China."
"Not only is China building like crazy these day, they are building BIG. The most populous country in the world is undertaking large-scale 'mega-projects' in an effort to rapidly industrialize and modernize. Many of these mega-projects are high-rise residential developments, designed to meet the country and local light and vent codes, but not much else. Their painted-concrete exteriors bend and turn to allow the required light and air into the appropriate spaces, such as bedrooms, but their sheer repetition of floors and building groups is a daunting and oppressive sight. One project that's set apart from the rest is the Jian Wai SOHO development in Beijing, designed by Japan's Riken Yamamoto and developed by SOHO China."
Wired News - Fancy Meets Function on Runway
Wired News - Fancy Meets Function on Runway:
"LOS ANGELES -- In the future, we'll text-message hugs to each other's shirts, our coat buttons will house cameras, and our underwear biosensors will phone home when we're in trouble."
Via 21f Newsletter
"LOS ANGELES -- In the future, we'll text-message hugs to each other's shirts, our coat buttons will house cameras, and our underwear biosensors will phone home when we're in trouble."
Via 21f Newsletter
news @ nature - Sunlight used to smelt zinc
news @ nature - Sunlight used to smelt zinc:
"Scientists have found a way to harness the Sun's energy to extract zinc metal, which can then be used to produce hydrogen simply by pouring water over it."
"Scientists have found a way to harness the Sun's energy to extract zinc metal, which can then be used to produce hydrogen simply by pouring water over it."
news @ nature - Hurricanes whip up huge waves
news @ nature - Hurricanes whip up huge waves:
"Immense waves capable of sinking the largest ships might not be freaks of nature, but a common result of hurricanes."
"Immense waves capable of sinking the largest ships might not be freaks of nature, but a common result of hurricanes."
TWICE - JVC Outlines A/V Receiver Vision
TWICE - JVC Outlines A/V Receiver Vision:
"New York — JVC outlined a multiyear A/V-receiver strategy that emphasizes PC and HDTV connectivity, MP3 player connections to home audio systems, enhanced compressed-music sound quality, and stylish models as slender as the flat-screen displays and DVD players that they’re meant to complement."
"New York — JVC outlined a multiyear A/V-receiver strategy that emphasizes PC and HDTV connectivity, MP3 player connections to home audio systems, enhanced compressed-music sound quality, and stylish models as slender as the flat-screen displays and DVD players that they’re meant to complement."
amor mundi - Bigotry's New Frontier: The Latest Bioconservative Campaign
amor mundi - Bigotry's New Frontier: The Latest Bioconservative Campaign :
"In a new public relations campaign, the Christian bioconservative Center for Bioethics and Culture is now encouraging its supporters to purchase and sport blue wristbands emblazoned with the words 'THE HUMAN FUTURE.'"
Via Cyborg Democracy Newsletter
"In a new public relations campaign, the Christian bioconservative Center for Bioethics and Culture is now encouraging its supporters to purchase and sport blue wristbands emblazoned with the words 'THE HUMAN FUTURE.'"
Via Cyborg Democracy Newsletter
netcomposites - UK Project Unlocks Door to Recyclable Automotive Panels
netcomposites - UK Project Unlocks Door to Recyclable Automotive Panels:
"A UK consortium has demonstrated that lightweight automotive components can be produced economically and with minimum impact on the environment."
Via Electrifying Times Newsletter
"A UK consortium has demonstrated that lightweight automotive components can be produced economically and with minimum impact on the environment."
Via Electrifying Times Newsletter
Saturday, August 06, 2005
Yahoo! News - Indiana's Goal: Linux On Every High School Desktop
Yahoo! News - Indiana's Goal: Linux On Every High School Desktop:
"A program to provide desktop computers to every Indiana high school student is giving an Indiana company and open-source provider Linspire an opening to provide low-cost systems to students across the state."
"A program to provide desktop computers to every Indiana high school student is giving an Indiana company and open-source provider Linspire an opening to provide low-cost systems to students across the state."
Friday, August 05, 2005
eMarketer Daily - PC Rules!
eMarketer Daily - PC Rules!:
"The personal computer is rapidly replacing other consumer electronics appliances as the primary at-home communications and entertainment device."
"The personal computer is rapidly replacing other consumer electronics appliances as the primary at-home communications and entertainment device."
Thursday, August 04, 2005
Cyborg Democracy - Is the trip really over?
Cyborg Democracy - Is the trip really over?:
"The techno-euphoria that prevails in the cyberdelic counterculture seems to be slowly wearing off. More and more cyberians are realizing that the PC, the Internet, and other new technologies did not really bring the social, political, and personal changes they thought they would. Even R. U. Sirius, who used to be an euphoric spokesman of cyberculture, has finally realized that the visions of the cyber-society and the 'liftoff from biology and gravity' have blinded us to the real problems on this planet."
"The techno-euphoria that prevails in the cyberdelic counterculture seems to be slowly wearing off. More and more cyberians are realizing that the PC, the Internet, and other new technologies did not really bring the social, political, and personal changes they thought they would. Even R. U. Sirius, who used to be an euphoric spokesman of cyberculture, has finally realized that the visions of the cyber-society and the 'liftoff from biology and gravity' have blinded us to the real problems on this planet."
Yahoo! News - Axial Vector Engine Corp Appears on 'World Business Review'
Yahoo! News - Axial Vector Engine Corp Appears on 'World Business Review':
"Axial Vector(TM) Engine Corporation (OTC Bulletin Board: AXVC) announced today it would be featured on the nationally acclaimed business television show, 'World Business Review,' a weekly television series hosted by General Alexander Haig (RET) and former Secretary of State under former President Ronald Reagan."
Via Electrifying Times Newsletter
"Axial Vector(TM) Engine Corporation (OTC Bulletin Board: AXVC) announced today it would be featured on the nationally acclaimed business television show, 'World Business Review,' a weekly television series hosted by General Alexander Haig (RET) and former Secretary of State under former President Ronald Reagan."
Via Electrifying Times Newsletter
Wednesday, August 03, 2005
LinuxDevices - NASA rev's open-source OS abstraction layer
LinuxDevices - NASA rev's open-source OS abstraction layer:
"NASA has released version 2.0 of a software library meant to allow real-time applications to be compiled on multiple real-time and desktop OSes. Operating System Abstraction Layer (OSAL) provides generic interfaces for real-time services, filesystems, port I/O, and memory interfaces, and supports Linux, Windows/Cygwin, VxWorks, RTEMS, and Mac OS X."
"NASA has released version 2.0 of a software library meant to allow real-time applications to be compiled on multiple real-time and desktop OSes. Operating System Abstraction Layer (OSAL) provides generic interfaces for real-time services, filesystems, port I/O, and memory interfaces, and supports Linux, Windows/Cygwin, VxWorks, RTEMS, and Mac OS X."
LinuxDevices - Software turns mobile phones into walkie-talkies
LinuxDevices - Software turns mobile phones into walkie-talkies:
"Esmertec is shipping software that adds real-time push-to-talk functionality to 2.5G and 3G mobile phones. The u@PoC (Push-to-talk over Cellular) client allows users to establish one-on-one or one-to-many (group) conversations, and can be ported to any platform with a C compiler, the company says. "
"Esmertec is shipping software that adds real-time push-to-talk functionality to 2.5G and 3G mobile phones. The u@PoC (Push-to-talk over Cellular) client allows users to establish one-on-one or one-to-many (group) conversations, and can be ported to any platform with a C compiler, the company says. "
LinuxDevices - PS3 to revolutionize personal computing, Sony says
LinuxDevices - PS3 to revolutionize personal computing, Sony says:
"Sony's Playstation 3 (PS3), expected to ship next spring, will revolutionize personal computing, says Sony Computer Entertainment CEO Ken Kutaragi in an EETimes Asia interview. The PS3 will have a Cell processor that runs multiple OSes -- including Linux -- concurrently in different OS 'cells.'"
"Sony's Playstation 3 (PS3), expected to ship next spring, will revolutionize personal computing, says Sony Computer Entertainment CEO Ken Kutaragi in an EETimes Asia interview. The PS3 will have a Cell processor that runs multiple OSes -- including Linux -- concurrently in different OS 'cells.'"
Internet News - Vonage, TowerStream Tackle Wireless VoIP
Internet News - Vonage, TowerStream Tackle Wireless VoIP:
"Vonage and TowerStream, two companies looking to undercut the Baby Bells, are partnering to target business customers."
"Vonage and TowerStream, two companies looking to undercut the Baby Bells, are partnering to target business customers."
BusinessWeek - Patriotism And Putin Rock!
BusinessWeek - Patriotism And Putin Rock!:
"It's 7:30 on a Saturday morning in July. On the scenic shores of Lake Seliger, about 360 kilometers northwest of Moscow in the Tver region, some 3,000 young Russians are emerging sleepily from their tents underneath tall birch trees, summoned to morning assembly and exercises by the booming strains of the Russian national anthem. Camp Seliger offers its teenage denizens hiking, swimming, sports, and cookouts. But this camp has a twist. It is run by a new political youth movement called Nashi ('Our Own' in Russian). Its purpose, along with outdoor summer fun, is to build up patriotic fervor in young people through a series of lectures and seminars."
Via Ypulse
"It's 7:30 on a Saturday morning in July. On the scenic shores of Lake Seliger, about 360 kilometers northwest of Moscow in the Tver region, some 3,000 young Russians are emerging sleepily from their tents underneath tall birch trees, summoned to morning assembly and exercises by the booming strains of the Russian national anthem. Camp Seliger offers its teenage denizens hiking, swimming, sports, and cookouts. But this camp has a twist. It is run by a new political youth movement called Nashi ('Our Own' in Russian). Its purpose, along with outdoor summer fun, is to build up patriotic fervor in young people through a series of lectures and seminars."
Via Ypulse
eMarketer Daily - Hub Hubbub
eMarketer Daily - Hub Hubbub:
"Most consumers aren't familiar with media hubs. But many are intrigued by the idea once it has been described to them."
"Most consumers aren't familiar with media hubs. But many are intrigued by the idea once it has been described to them."
BBC News - Nanotechnology kills cancer cells
BBC News - Nanotechnology kills cancer cells:
"Nanotechnology has been harnessed to kill cancer cells without harming healthy tissue."
"Nanotechnology has been harnessed to kill cancer cells without harming healthy tissue."
Tuesday, August 02, 2005
Tech-On! - Toshiba Develops Flatbed 3D Display
Tech-On! - Toshiba Develops Flatbed 3D Display:
"Toshiba Corp. has developed a display technology allowing 3D images to be viewed on a flatbed display. All the various conventional 3D displays developed thus far have been upright displays. By switching the way displays are placed, 'We can offer a realistic touch of depth,' said a company spokesperson."
Via Gizmodo <- LIVEdigitally Newsletter
"Toshiba Corp. has developed a display technology allowing 3D images to be viewed on a flatbed display. All the various conventional 3D displays developed thus far have been upright displays. By switching the way displays are placed, 'We can offer a realistic touch of depth,' said a company spokesperson."
Via Gizmodo <- LIVEdigitally Newsletter
eWeek - Open Chips Take Aim at Hardware World
eWeek - Open Chips Take Aim at Hardware World:
"Numerous processor designs are now being made open for anyone to modify and use, and available for free—or in some cases for small royalties—making it possible for device makers to select from a wider range of chip hardware than ever before."
"Numerous processor designs are now being made open for anyone to modify and use, and available for free—or in some cases for small royalties—making it possible for device makers to select from a wider range of chip hardware than ever before."
Wired News - PC Precisely Predicts Felony
Wired News - PC Precisely Predicts Felony:
"Police are always trying to get inside criminals' minds to predict their next move. In Yonkers, New York, last week a police computer turned this guessing game into a science by correctly forecasting the time and place of a robbery -- and dispatched officers to nab the perpetrators."
Via Tom Peters! Wire Service
"Police are always trying to get inside criminals' minds to predict their next move. In Yonkers, New York, last week a police computer turned this guessing game into a science by correctly forecasting the time and place of a robbery -- and dispatched officers to nab the perpetrators."
Via Tom Peters! Wire Service
BizReport - Court TV finds in favor of SmartVideo for mobile
BizReport - Court TV finds in favor of SmartVideo for mobile:
"TV viewers now will have more access to their favorite legal programming through a new partnership with mobile video provider SmartVideo."
"TV viewers now will have more access to their favorite legal programming through a new partnership with mobile video provider SmartVideo."
BizReport - Web Audio Book Leader Faces Competition
BizReport - Web Audio Book Leader Faces Competition:
"Just as Audible Inc. is finally beginning to show profits, the prospect of stiff competition looms from Amazon.com Inc., a partner that now plans to launch its own audio book store."
"Just as Audible Inc. is finally beginning to show profits, the prospect of stiff competition looms from Amazon.com Inc., a partner that now plans to launch its own audio book store."
eWeek - Fox Movie Studio Backs Sony's Blu-ray DVD
eWeek - Fox Movie Studio Backs Sony's Blu-ray DVD:
"LOS ANGELES—Twentieth Century Fox film studio on Friday gave its backing to Blu-ray technology for next-generation DVDs, becoming the last of Hollywood's major movie groups to choose sides in a pitched battle over standards."
"LOS ANGELES—Twentieth Century Fox film studio on Friday gave its backing to Blu-ray technology for next-generation DVDs, becoming the last of Hollywood's major movie groups to choose sides in a pitched battle over standards."
New York Times - I Screen, You Screen: The New Age of the Music Video
New York Times - I Screen, You Screen: The New Age of the Music Video:
"IT'S hard to remember now, but there was a time when MTV was new - an upstart with barely enough clips to fill its airtime, using 'I Want My MTV!' commercials to urge local providers to take notice. The viewing experience was unlike any before it: almost exclusively music videos, a strange new medium of three-minute units and an uncharted arena of artistic and commercial opportunities."
"IT'S hard to remember now, but there was a time when MTV was new - an upstart with barely enough clips to fill its airtime, using 'I Want My MTV!' commercials to urge local providers to take notice. The viewing experience was unlike any before it: almost exclusively music videos, a strange new medium of three-minute units and an uncharted arena of artistic and commercial opportunities."
Electrifying Times - Open letter from Hugh E Webber
Electrifying Times - Open letter from Hugh E Webber:
"I wish to congratulate all EV advocates on the salvation of two models of battery electric vehicles. While these victories were defensive, events are increasingly EV-positive. I believe that Mitsubishi's plan to mass-produce full-sized EVs is just the first; the smashing success of hybrid propulsion cannot be ignored. In a few years American consumers will be thinking, 'If electric propulsion works on the highway, why burn petroleum?'"
"I wish to congratulate all EV advocates on the salvation of two models of battery electric vehicles. While these victories were defensive, events are increasingly EV-positive. I believe that Mitsubishi's plan to mass-produce full-sized EVs is just the first; the smashing success of hybrid propulsion cannot be ignored. In a few years American consumers will be thinking, 'If electric propulsion works on the highway, why burn petroleum?'"
eWeek - PluggedIn: Wireless Wallets Come Closer to Reality
eWeek - PluggedIn: Wireless Wallets Come Closer to Reality:
"NEW YORK (Reuters)—Imagine being able to pay for a song on the jukebox, buy a bag of groceries or gain admission to a sports arena by simply waving your phone by a machine."
"NEW YORK (Reuters)—Imagine being able to pay for a song on the jukebox, buy a bag of groceries or gain admission to a sports arena by simply waving your phone by a machine."
BusinessWeek - Get Creative!
BusinessWeek - Get Creative!:
"Listen closely. There's a new conversation under way across America that may well change your future. If you work for Procter & Gamble Co. (PG ) or General Electric Co. (GE ), you already know what's going on. If you don't, you might want to stop what you're doing and consider this:"
Related: BusinessWeek
It's like BusinessWeek read my mind or maybe they read my blog. Oh well, I've given them ideas in the past. Whether they credited me or not doesn't matter. What does matter is that BusinessWeek never bothered to tell me when they did finally do what I asked.
"Listen closely. There's a new conversation under way across America that may well change your future. If you work for Procter & Gamble Co. (PG ) or General Electric Co. (GE ), you already know what's going on. If you don't, you might want to stop what you're doing and consider this:"
Related: BusinessWeek
It's like BusinessWeek read my mind or maybe they read my blog. Oh well, I've given them ideas in the past. Whether they credited me or not doesn't matter. What does matter is that BusinessWeek never bothered to tell me when they did finally do what I asked.
Monday, August 01, 2005
VoIP Planet - VoIP Handset Market Set to Take Off
VoIP Planet - VoIP Handset Market Set to Take Off:
"The global Wi-Fi VoIP handset market is set to take off according to a new study released this week from Infonetics Research. The study hits the street at the same time as Vonage and VTech officially launch a 5.8GHz wireless VoIP system, with a Vonage Wi-Fi phone expected sometime this fall."
"The global Wi-Fi VoIP handset market is set to take off according to a new study released this week from Infonetics Research. The study hits the street at the same time as Vonage and VTech officially launch a 5.8GHz wireless VoIP system, with a Vonage Wi-Fi phone expected sometime this fall."
Wired News - Radical Fabrics Weave Wonders
Wired News - Radical Fabrics Weave Wonders:
"In 1935, DuPont chemist Wallace Carothers invented nylon, ushering in a new era of man-made fabrics that would eventually clothe astronauts and deep-sea divers, stop bullets with Kevlar and dog a generation of salesmen with the polyester suit."
Via Reveries
"In 1935, DuPont chemist Wallace Carothers invented nylon, ushering in a new era of man-made fabrics that would eventually clothe astronauts and deep-sea divers, stop bullets with Kevlar and dog a generation of salesmen with the polyester suit."
Via Reveries
InformationWeek - Japan Plans World's Fastest Computer
InformationWeek - Japan Plans World's Fastest Computer:
"Japan wants to develop a supercomputer that can operate at 10 petaflops, or 10 quadrillion calculations per second, which is 73 times faster than the current top-ranked IBM's Blue Gene."
Via KurzweilAI.net
"Japan wants to develop a supercomputer that can operate at 10 petaflops, or 10 quadrillion calculations per second, which is 73 times faster than the current top-ranked IBM's Blue Gene."
Via KurzweilAI.net
Taipei Times - Computer scientists to copy brain of a mammal
Taipei Times - Computer scientists to copy brain of a mammal:
"IBM and Switzerland's Ecole Polytechnique Federale de Lausanne (EPFL) have teamed up to create the most ambitious project in the field of neuroscience: to simulate a mammalian brain on the world's most powerful supercomputer, IBM's Blue Gene."
Via KurzweilAI.net
"IBM and Switzerland's Ecole Polytechnique Federale de Lausanne (EPFL) have teamed up to create the most ambitious project in the field of neuroscience: to simulate a mammalian brain on the world's most powerful supercomputer, IBM's Blue Gene."
Via KurzweilAI.net
New York Times - A New Face: A Bold Surgeon, an Untried Surgery
New York Times - A New Face: A Bold Surgeon, an Untried Surgery:
"The procedure has been a theoretical possibility at least since 1999, when surgeons at the University of Louisville performed the nation's first hand transplant. That operation has been duplicated some two dozen times now, and the experience has given surgeons like Dr. Siemionow the courage - hubris, critics say - to think the unthinkable."
Via KurzweilAI.net
"The procedure has been a theoretical possibility at least since 1999, when surgeons at the University of Louisville performed the nation's first hand transplant. That operation has been duplicated some two dozen times now, and the experience has given surgeons like Dr. Siemionow the courage - hubris, critics say - to think the unthinkable."
Via KurzweilAI.net
The Australian - Scientists create working brain cells
The Australian - Scientists create working brain cells:
"SWEDISH researchers have created new functioning brain cells from stem cells drawn from the brains of living adults, sparking hope that effective treatments for devastating illnesses like Parkinson's and Alzheimer's could be at hand, media reported overnight."
Via KurzweilAI.net
"SWEDISH researchers have created new functioning brain cells from stem cells drawn from the brains of living adults, sparking hope that effective treatments for devastating illnesses like Parkinson's and Alzheimer's could be at hand, media reported overnight."
Via KurzweilAI.net
New Scientist SPACE - Life's ingredients found in early universe
New Scientist SPACE - Life's ingredients found in early universe:
"The molecular building blocks of life had already formed by the time the universe was only a quarter of its present age, new observations by NASA's Spitzer Space Telescope reveal. The research bolsters the case for extraterrestrial life and may shed light on the nature of galaxies in the early universe."
Via KurzweilAI.net
"The molecular building blocks of life had already formed by the time the universe was only a quarter of its present age, new observations by NASA's Spitzer Space Telescope reveal. The research bolsters the case for extraterrestrial life and may shed light on the nature of galaxies in the early universe."
Via KurzweilAI.net
Telegraph - Travel gadgets: it knows where you are...
Telegraph - Travel gadgets: it knows where you are...:
"In The Hitchhiker's Guide to the Galaxy, Douglas Adams conjures up a device that gives tourists such huge amounts of on-the-spot information about life, the universe and everything that it's like having God in your rucksack."
Via KurzweilAI.net
"In The Hitchhiker's Guide to the Galaxy, Douglas Adams conjures up a device that gives tourists such huge amounts of on-the-spot information about life, the universe and everything that it's like having God in your rucksack."
Via KurzweilAI.net
news @ nature - Fast sequencing comes to light
news @ nature - Fast sequencing comes to light:
"Writing in Nature2, Marcel Margulies, Michael Egholm and colleagues describe a method that they say reads genomes 100 times faster than the current technology, which is based on a tried and true technique called the Sanger method."
Via Longevity Meme Newsletter
"Writing in Nature2, Marcel Margulies, Michael Egholm and colleagues describe a method that they say reads genomes 100 times faster than the current technology, which is based on a tried and true technique called the Sanger method."
Via Longevity Meme Newsletter
Newswise - Using Nanoparticles, in Vivo Gene Therapy Activates Brain Stem Cells
Newswise - Using Nanoparticles, in Vivo Gene Therapy Activates Brain Stem Cells:
"Using nanoparticles, scientists have for the first time delivered genes into the brains of living mice with an efficiency comparable to viral vectors with no observable toxic effect. They also have activated brain stem cells in vivo, potentially to replace those destroyed by disease."
Via Longevity Meme Newsletter
"Using nanoparticles, scientists have for the first time delivered genes into the brains of living mice with an efficiency comparable to viral vectors with no observable toxic effect. They also have activated brain stem cells in vivo, potentially to replace those destroyed by disease."
Via Longevity Meme Newsletter
BBC News - Surgery hope for 'bone on demand'
BBC News - Surgery hope for 'bone on demand':
"Scientists believe a breakthrough may lead to bone being grown on demand for people with bone diseases and breaks."
Via Longevity Meme Newsletter
"Scientists believe a breakthrough may lead to bone being grown on demand for people with bone diseases and breaks."
Via Longevity Meme Newsletter
eWeek - Novell Goes for SCO's Throat
eWeek - Novell Goes for SCO's Throat:
"Novell also filed counterclaims asking the court to force SCO to turn over its Unix licenses royalties to it and to attach SCO's assets to ensure that it can pay Novell."
"Novell also filed counterclaims asking the court to force SCO to turn over its Unix licenses royalties to it and to attach SCO's assets to ensure that it can pay Novell."
GreenBiz News - Xanterra Parks & Resorts Expands Sustainable Cuisine Offerings
GreenBiz News - Xanterra Parks & Resorts Expands Sustainable Cuisine Offerings:
"What began with a company-wide seafood policy that ensured Xanterra Parks & Resorts served only sustainable seafood in its 64 restaurants is now an aggressive program that includes a wide variety of new innovations in sustainable cuisine."
"What began with a company-wide seafood policy that ensured Xanterra Parks & Resorts served only sustainable seafood in its 64 restaurants is now an aggressive program that includes a wide variety of new innovations in sustainable cuisine."
LinuxDevices - Linux trounces Windows Mobile in smartphone shipments
LinuxDevices - Linux trounces Windows Mobile in smartphone shipments:
"Embedded Linux powered 14 percent of smartphones shipped worldwide in Q1 of 2005, up 412 percent from 3.4 percent in Q1-04, according to Gartner. Windows Mobile Smartphone shipments also grew, rising 50 percent from a 2.9 share in 1Q-04 to 4.5 percent in 1Q-05."
"Embedded Linux powered 14 percent of smartphones shipped worldwide in Q1 of 2005, up 412 percent from 3.4 percent in Q1-04, according to Gartner. Windows Mobile Smartphone shipments also grew, rising 50 percent from a 2.9 share in 1Q-04 to 4.5 percent in 1Q-05."
LinuxDevices - Device Profile: ZTE e3 Linux camera phone
LinuxDevices - Device Profile: ZTE e3 Linux camera phone:
"One of China's largest telecommunications equipment companies has used Linux and Qtopia Phone Edition to build a dual-band GSM mobile phone with a 1.3MP camera and unique pivoting color touchscreen. ZTE's e3 has strong multimedia and video capabilities, along with a full web browser and Chinese-English translation software."
"One of China's largest telecommunications equipment companies has used Linux and Qtopia Phone Edition to build a dual-band GSM mobile phone with a 1.3MP camera and unique pivoting color touchscreen. ZTE's e3 has strong multimedia and video capabilities, along with a full web browser and Chinese-English translation software."
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