US STOCKS vacillated yesterday as rising oil prices muted Wall Streets excitement over strong results from Lehman Brothers and Sprints \$35 billion acquisition of Nextel Communications.

Oil price rise a cloud on Wall Street #39;s happiness on results


A team of researchers is evaluating how Linux and Mac OS X stack up against Windows for internal use.

AT T looks into closing its Windows


Reuters - The Indian cricket board said on Wednesday it was making arrangements on its own to broadcast next month's test series against Australia, which is under threat because of a raging TV rights dispute.

BCCI plans own telecast of Australia series (Reuters)


Like the autumn leaves, baseball changes in October. Pitchers dominate, and hitters desperately look for ways to score runs. By Andre Pichette, AP.

#39;Grinders #39; turn up pressure in postseason


UNITED NATIONS Annan backs US bid on Sudan resolution Secretary General Kofi Annan yesterday threw his weight behind a US-drafted resolution on Sudan's Darfur region, saying the Security Council should adopt it immediately to stop atrocities.  quot;It is urgent to act now. Civilians are still being attacked and fleeing their villages as we speak, quot; Annan told reporters of the resolution ...

Annan backs US bidon Sudan resolution


ALMHULT, Sweden (Reuters) - The design chief of home  furnishing giant IKEA was recently asked in China, now home to  two of the blue and yellow warehouses selling the Scandinavian  lifestyle, if he was worried about being a

IKEA Touts Its 'Democratic Design'


Craig Ochs passed for 204 yards and three touchdowns, and Montana forced four turnovers in a 34-13 victory over Sam Houston State in a Division 1-AA semifinal game yesterday in Missoula, Mont.

Montana cruises to final


com October 4, 2004, 9:13 AM PT. This fourth priority #39;s main focus has been improving or obtaining CRM and ERP software for the past year and a half.

Amazon expands Web services efforts


GENEVA -- The Phonak cycling team wants to overturn a decision in which its racing license was denied because of a doping scandal.

Phonak appeals license refusal


By just two ticks of the clock yesterday morning, the US rowing team squeezed two entries into this weekend's Olympic finals on an otherwise empty day.

Pair of US squads advance to finals


SiliconValley.com - It sounds like a 1999 dot-com spin on eBay: A new San Mateo start-up called Jigsaw says it is launching a platform where users can buy, sell and trade business cards.

New Web site allows salespeople to help solve the puzzle of whom to reach (SiliconValley.com)


KANSAS CITY, Missouri (Ticker) -- Priest Holmes and the Kansas City Chiefs  #39; physcial offensive line shredded the NFL #39;s top-ranked rushing defense.

Kansas City Chiefs


NEW YORK : World oil prices raced to new record highs and then skidded as the Norwegian government announced it would intervene to end industrial strife in the huge oil sector.

Oil prices hit record, then slide as Norway intervenes in strike


AP - The bright green rocks jutting through the prairie soil were hard to miss, but Tom Charlton still couldn't believe his eyes.

Microscopic Diamond Found in Montana (AP)


InfoWorld - SANTA CLARA, CALIF.  #8211; Enterprises that in the past may have been leery of open source alternatives to commercial software have opened up to the concept, panelists said here Tuesday at an SDForum conference entitled

SDForum: Open source becoming first option (InfoWorld)


The fine print in an insurance policy becomes an issue when a bizarre chain of IT disasters leaves a company without a single copy of the source code to its flagship product.\

Columnists: The Worst Case Scenario


Reuters - The balding young man with the\black beard raised his hands to cover his face as three\visitors entered the room.

In Shadow of 9/11, Hamburg Tracks Atta Contacts (Reuters)


Bruce McDonald, a little-known Zimbabwean, took the first-round lead on 66 in the European Tour #39;s Dunhill Championship at Leopard Creek Country Club.

Cheetham shadows Els


Ron Artest has been hit with a season long suspension, unprecedented for the NBA outside doping cases; Stephen Jackson banned for 30 games; Jermaine O #39;Neal for 25 games and Anthony Johnson for five.

Stern Measures in NBA


Russian timber tycoon Boris Zingarevich #39;s company denied on Monday reports that he or his 23-year-old son was bidding for Premier League club Everton.

Russians deny interest in Everton


Pitcher Bruce wins for the first time in over two years, leading the Orioles past the Toronto Blue Jays, 9-1, Monday.

Chen's Drought Ends


The computing giant talks up new storage products and plans after a major sales stumble.

HP girds for grid storage campaign


Prime Minister Manmohan Singh lavished generous praiseon the Indian diaspora, particularly in the US and Britain, calling them a  quot;bridge quot; between their adopted land and India and said the country took  quot;pride in their achievements quot;.

Manmohan praises contribution of Indian diaspora


TOKYO  For a country that shut out foreigners for hundreds of years, Japan has proved strangely attractive for problem migrants of late.

Famous scofflaws hit Japan


OCTOBER 27, 2004 -- Indianapolis, Ind. -- ATA Airlines yesterday filed for bankruptcy protection, the first domestic, low-fare airline to go the way of several traditional air carriers.

Low-Fare Airline, ATA, Seeks Bankruptcy Protection


The low number of minorities coaching in college football reflects a lack of diversity among college and conference leaders, according to a University of Central Florida study released Wednesday.

Minorities remain rare in power


MADRID, Oct. 1. - Michael Owen will join the England squad next week with doubts over his place in the national team for the first time under Mr Sven-Goran Eriksson.

Owens England place under threat


BEDFORD -- Scientists at NitroMed Inc. hope their experimental drugs will cure heart disease someday. But lately their focus has been on more mundane matters.

Steady as they go


JERUSALEM - Two buses exploded almost simultaneously in southern Israel on Tuesday, killing at least 12 people and wounding 44, rescue officials said, in the first major Palestinian attack inside Israel in nearly six months.    Israel's Channel Two television said the blasts were carried out by Palestinian suicide bombers, but the report could not immediately be confirmed...

Twin Bus Blasts in Southern Israel Kill 12


WAYNE ROONEY launched himself into the footballing stratosphere with a debut hat-trick at Old Trafford last night. On this evidence, Sir Alex Ferguson would have made a wise investment if he had spent the

Roon at the top - hat-trick hero Wayne makes dazzling United debut


The Mozilla Foundation celebrated the worldwide release of Firefox 1.0 Tuesday as new Mydoom variants exploited yet another Internet Explorer vulnerability.

Attacking the alternative


CORNING, NY -- Corning Inc. (GLW) plans to record \$2.8 billion to \$2.9 billion in noncash charges in the third quarter to impair goodwill and investments in its struggling telecommunications segment and establish a deferred-tax valuation allowance.

Corning Plans to Take 3Q Charges of \$2.8 Billion to \$2.9 Billion


The International Atomic Energy Agency Board of Governors has put off a resolution on Iran #39;s nuclear program until Monday, to allow more time for European countries and Tehran to finalize a deal to freeze Iran #39;s uranium enrichment program.

IAEA Diplomats See Agreement on Iran Next Week


The New York Jets announced Wednesday they had signed quarterback Chad Pennington to a long-term contract extension. The New York Daily News reported Pennington became the highest

Jets sign Pennington for long term


The semiconductor industry should take in \$226 billion in revenue this year, up 27 from last year, according to research firm Gartner Inc. But that grow is expected to slow in 2005.

Gartner: '04 chip revenue growth strong, '05 weaker


AP - Bill Walsh and Don Shula might want to avert their eyes from this one. Twenty seasons after the San Francisco 49ers and the Miami Dolphins faced each other in two of their 10 combined trips to the Super Bowl, they've become the NFL's two most miserable franchises.

Once-Proud Niners, Dolphins Flounder (AP)


NEW YORK (Reuters) - Sprint Corp. on Wednesday agreed to  buy wireless telephone company Nextel Communications Inc. in a  cash and stock deal worth as much as \$38.45 billion to gain  more business customers and more wireless airwaves to transmit  calls.

Sprint Agrees to Buy Nextel for \$38 Bln


Dell officially re-entered the blade-server market Monday with a long-rumored product the company says helps address costs and thermal issues needed to further propel the growth of blades.

Dell Gets Back Into Blades


Sudden changes in the housing market pose the biggest threat to the UK economy, the world financial watchdog warned today. In an unusually stark message, the International Monetary

Imf Warns House Buyers to  #39;Exercise Caution #39;


In Europe, industry leaders, government officials and others debate whether patents would hinder or cultivate innovation.

Software-patent battle set to flare up


Ronaldo scored only his second league goal of the season to give Real Madrid a 1-1 draw at Real Betis on Saturday and salvage a point from another mediocre display.

UPDATE 2-Ronaldo strikes to give Real 1-1 draw at Betis


AFP - A decade ago, Britain's magazine market was shaken up by a series of men's titles which offered an unsubtle mix of football, humour and scantily-clad women. Now a new revolution has begun, using much the same formula.

Moribund 'lad mag' market in Britain gets a boost (AFP)


Militants holding three UN workers hostage in Afghanistan have said they will give officials until Friday to meet their demands. The group had previously suggested it would start killing the hostages on Wednesday

Afghan hostage deadline extended


AN expedition to find the lost city of Atlantis claim they have discovered evidence of man-made structures submerged in the sea between Cyprus and Syria.

SEA CITY IS FOUND


The UN expresses concern over rising tensions on the border between Israel and Lebanon.

UN urges calm on Lebanon border


AP - The United States should have quickly reformed the Iraqi army after most of its soldiers walked off the battlefield and got them

Franks Says U.S. Should Have Hired Iraqis (AP)


The UN nuclear watchdog said in a report that Libya has been telling the truth in its declarations on the covert atomic weapons programme which it agreed in December to abandon.

Libya praised for IAEA cooperation


Iranian students interrupt a speech by President Khatami to mark Student Day at Tehran university.

Students heckle Iranian president


Consumers lost a little of their enthusiasm for auto purchases last month but spent like mad in a number of other areas including clothing and gasoline, the Commerce Department reported Friday.

Retail Sales Increase, Autos Lose Luster


Deaf people who use sign language could soon be using video phones to make calls.

Video phone help for deaf people


Relations between China and Brazil have remarkably improved since the two countries established diplomatic relations 30 years ago, and both sides hope their ties will be strengthened in a time of challenges and opportunities.

Sino-Brazilian ties enter new era


When an analyst or play-by-play man does not take a stand against bad behavior by an athlete, coach or manager, he is endorsing it.

Bad words, worse analysis


AP - In a series of dramatic steps capped Sunday by a high-profile prisoner swap, Israel and Egypt are moving rapidly to improve relations, seizing the opportunity for a Middle East peace deal presented by Yasser Arafat's death.

Israel, Egypt Warm Ties With Prison Swap (AP)


ABIDJAN (Reuters) - French peacekeeping troops exchanged  fire with gunmen who attacked them as they traveled in a convoy  of armored vehicles in northern Ivory Coast on Tuesday, a  French army spokesman said.

French Troops Trade Fire with Gunmen in Ivory Coast


England coach Sven-Goran Eriksson says captain David Beckham should have kept quiet about his decision to deliberately pick up a yellow card against Wales.

Silence is best, Eriksson tells sorry Beckham


NEW DELHI (AFP) - The rift in India #39;s Ambani family which controls India #39;s biggest private enterprise group Reliance deepened as elder brother Mukesh rejected his younger brother #39;s objections to a change in their management roles, a report said.

Family feud over control of India #39;s leading business group <b>...</b>


KINGSTON, Jamaica - Hurricane Ivan lashed Jamaica with monstrous waves, driving rain and winds nearing 155 mph Saturday, killing at least two people as it washed away homes and ripped up roofs and utility poles but unexpectedly spared the island from a direct hit.    A 10-year-old girl drowned in Old Harbor, just east of Kingston, and a woman was killed in the capital by a tree that struck here home, said Ronald Jackson of Jamaica's disaster relief agency...

Hurricane Ivan Pummels Jamaica; 39 Dead


Just about. The only time on record that anything like this happened before was in 1947, when two hurricanes and one tropical storm hit Florida within five weeks.

Why are there so many hurricanes?


Houston put their hopes in a pitcher untested in the postseason when they give Pete Munro the ball to start Game 2 of the N.L. Championship Series tonight.

Astros Pinning Hopes on Untested Pitcher


Carmelo Anthony's 15-foot jumper with 3.6 seconds remaining lifts the Nuggets to a 100-99 victory over the Celtics.

Anthony Lifts Nuggets


SINGAPORE (Reuters) - MSCI's world stock market index hit  its highest level in over three years on Friday as weaker oil  prices eased pressure on the global economy, while the yen  shrugged off soft Japanese GDP data to gain on the dollar.

World Stock Index at 3-Year High


A half built Supercomputer being built for the US Government by IBM, already has a run at the title of the Worlds Fastest even though it is only partially complete.

IBM Has Created a Monster


China has agreed to step in and pay Russian rail fees to ensure that it continues to receive Yukos oil if the company is unable to cover the transport costs, officials at Russia #39;s rail transport monopoly said Wednesday.

Update 3: Russia: China to Cover Yukos #39; Rail Fees


\

 By Eric Auchard and Daniel Sorid

 BEIJING (Reuters) - Cisco Systems Inc. <CSCO.O> Chief\Executive John Chambers said China was well on the way to\becoming the world's technology hub as he revealed plans for\his company's first research center in the country.

Cisco Sees China as Center of World Tech Market


The SANS Institute has issued its latest list of the 20 most critical Internet security vulnerabilties. Web servers top the list for Windows-based systems and fall second on the list of Unix and Linux systems.

Web Servers Lead Top 20 Security Problems List


JFK Reloaded, after all, is an online game that deals with the John F. Kennedy assassination and was made available yesterday -- the 41st anniversary of the president #39;s death.

JFK Internet Game Assailed


Pfizer ended its widely used discount card for the elderly, leaving Medicare beneficiaries at least temporarily without access to reduced prices for popular medicines.

Pfizer Ends Drug Cards for Elderly


The New York Mets plan to make a major announcement Thursday amid reports they are planning to hire Omar Minaya from the Montreal Expos as head of baseball operations.

New York Mets call news conference for Thursday; expected to hire <b>...</b>


President Vladimir Putin has ordered sweeping changes to Russia #39;s political system to help combat terrorism, but immediately has drawn charges he is exploiting a bloody school siege to boost his personal power.

Putin seeks more power to fight terrorism


In a preliminary ruling, the government rejected Microsoft Corp. #39;s 1996 patent on technology for saving files on computers using easy-to-remember names.

Microsoft vows fight on patent rejection


Roger Federer -- and the summer #39;s best performer -- Lleyton Hewitt -- play off for the year #39;s final Grand Slam. It #39;s difficult to imagine a better matchup than Federer and Hewitt.

Great matchup to end US Open


Hospital chain HCA said yesterday it will allow employees and its executives to cash in certain stock options earlier than was originally scheduled, a move that could be a financial plus for

HCA to let employees cash in stock options faster


Four suspected al Qaeda fighters will be formally charged with war crimes this week as the US military opens the first legal hearings for foreign

War Crimes Hearings to Begin for 4 Guantanamo Prisoners


GAYA, India -- Gearing up for the final push to wipe out polio, India has run into a hurdle in an eastern state, where poor, conservative communities are refusing to give polio drops to children because they distrust the medicine and its distributors.

Distrust hurts effort to end polio in India


AFP - An exhibit featuring a film about US President George W. Bush's home town in Texas won the Turner Prize, Britain's most prestigious art award, pipping a digital recreation of Osama bin Laden's house.

Bush overcomes bin Laden in battle for Britain's Turner Prize (AFP)


AP - David Wells could be back on the Yankee Stadium mound on opening day. With Pedro Martinez headed to the New York Mets and Curt Schilling's recovery from ankle surgery taking longer than expected, the Red Sox's newest acquisition might start the season opener against his former team at Yankee Stadium.

Wells Finalizes 2-Year Deal With Red Sox (AP)


Northwest Airlines said yesterday that it had canceled a new fee it charged travel agencies for a round-trip domestic ticket booked through global distribution systems, effective immediately.

Northwest Cancels a Travel Agency Fee


The militant group is poised to sponsor candidates in legislative and municipal elections expected later next year.

Hamas signals it wants a role in Palestinian vote


EU Trade Commissioner Peter Mandelson has launched top-level negotiations to avert a damaging economic war between America and Europe over subsidies for aircraft maker Airbus.

Mandelson #39;s peace move in Airbus subsidies battle


Forbes.com - Covad Communications (2, COVD) deserves a gold star simply for surviving the Internet wipeout. Rivals like Rhythms and NorthPoint are memories. In the 1990s Covad built the nation's largest digital subscriber line (DSL) network, offering rapid net access, but fell into Chapter 11 and got delisted from Nasdaq. Now the company is back from bankruptcy, trading on the o-t-c bulletin board and narrowing its losses. For 2004's first half the red ink shrank 66 to  #36;21 million. Revenues increased a healthy 18 to  #36;216 million.

Trial by Fire (Forbes.com)


BAGHDAD, Iraq - Kidnappers beheaded British hostage Kenneth Bigley after twice releasing videos in which he wept and pleaded with Prime Minister Tony Blair for his life. A U.S...

Official: British Hostage Tried to Escape


AMD and IBM have extended their CPU technology agreement through the end of 2008. Originally signed in December 2002, the alliance was originally slated to wind up at the end of 2005.

IBM and AMD partnership extended through 2008


2004-12-02  Accessing satellite radio on mobile phones would be possibile in the next five years. Hugh Panero, chief executive officer, XM Satellite Radio Holdings, has confirmed that his company is

Satellite radio on mobile phones


Four executives at Infineon Technologies AG, one of the world #39;s largest makers of memory chips, have agreed to plead guilty to criminal charges of price fixing in federal court, authorities said Thursday.

4 execs to plead guilty


Boeing hopes that Chinese airlines will soon place orders for up to 80 of its new 7E7  quot;Dreamliner quot; jets, according to the official publication of Airshow China 2004.

Boeing Looks To China For 80 7E7 Orders


Ross Stores has taken a hit to its bottom line because of ongoing problems surrounding the implementation of a merchandising system.

West Coast retailer hits software rollout bumps


NEW YORK (Reuters) - The scandal at Marsh   McLennan Cos.  <A HREF=

Ex-Marsh Executives Bolster Small Rival


TEHRAN (Reuters) - Iran rejected Sunday a U.N. resolution  calling on it to freeze uranium enrichment activities and  threatened to stop snap checks of its atomic facilities if its  case were sent to the U.N. Security Council.

Iran Rejects UN Call for Uranium Enrichment Freeze


WASHINGTON (Reuters) - U.S. economic growth during the  second quarter of the year was stronger than previously  thought, the Commerce Department reported on Wednesday, partly  because businesses built up inventories at the strongest rate  in four years.

Economic Growth Reported Above Forecast


TEHRAN, Iran - President Mohammad Khatami said Tuesday that Iran will continue a nuclear program some suspect is aimed at developing weapons, even if that means an end to U.N. oversight...

Khatami: Iran Will Pursue Nuclear Program


Tracy McGrady was traded to Houston in the offseason. He was the guy who could score 50 points a night, but his team would lose by 20.

Magic Unveil A New Look


BERKELEY, Calif. -- J.J. Arrington ran for 177 yards and three touchdowns, and Aaron Rodgers completed 20 of 26 passes for 260 yards and two scores in No. 12 California's 41-14 victory over New Mexico State last night.

Cal's Arrington in the zone


Alitalia, Italy #39;s largest airline, told its union Monday it plans to cut 5,000 jobs, or more than a quarter of its regular workforce, according to published reports.

Alitalia plans to cut 5,000 jobs


Via Technologies Inc.'s next generation of desktop microprocessors, based on the Esther processor core, will be called C7, the company said Thursday. Mobile versions of the chip will be called C7-M.

Via's upcoming processor to be called C7


AP - Consumer prices  #151; stoked by more expensive gasoline as well as pricier fruits and vegetables  #151; heated up in October, rising by 0.6 percent, the biggest gain in five months.

Consumer Prices Up 0.6 Percent in October (AP)


Bosnia held Balkan rival Serbia-Montenegro to a 0-0 draw Saturday in a World Cup qualifier, the first competitive match between the neighboring countries that fought a civil war from 1992-95.

Bosnia holds rival Serbia to 0-0 draw


This is the game, Brigham Young #39;s offense vows, the running game actually will make a positive contribution.  quot;We feel confident, quot; said left tackle Eddie Keele.

Cougars vow running game will have bite


Hynix Semiconductor wrapped up a \$830 million sales deal of its non-memory unit with Citigroup Venture Capital (CVC), the worlds second-largest memory chipmaker said Wednesday.

Hynix Sells Non-Memory Unit


BAGHDAD - Iraq ordered an investigation yesterday into whether a security breach triggered the massacre of 49 army recruits; meanwhile two foreign soldiers, an Estonian and an American, were killed in surging guerrilla raids during Ramadan.

Inquiry ordered in massacre case


These are three innocent sprinters, sharing a baton and their medal hopes with Marion Jones, knowing she could take them all down with one horrific lie.

Pass the baton of trust


Wal-Mart Stores Inc. (WMT.N: Quote, Profile, Research) , the world #39;s top retailer, on Wednesday said its board of directors authorized a \$10 billion stock repurchase plan, replacing a \$7 billion share buyback program.

UPDATE 1-Wal-Mart sets \$10 billion share repurchase plan


NEW ORLEANS (Sports Network) - The New Orleans Saints  Monday acquired cornerback Mike McKenzie and a future  conditional draft choice from Green Bay. In exchange, the  Packers received a second-round pick in 2005 and quarterback  J.T. O'Sullivan.

Saints Acquire Veteran Cornerback McKenzie


A scientific dig has uncovered four pomegranates believed to be 2,500 years old preserved inside a woven basket nestled in a bronze vessel, a Greek archaeologist said Friday.

Greek archaeologists find 2,500-year-old pomegranates preserved in <b>...</b>


On Tuesday November 24, Mark Webber will undertake his first testing duties for the team in Barcelona, together with the team test driver, Antonio Pizzonia.

BMW Williams to Test Webber, Davidson, Heidfeld, and Pizzonia


fiance who spent three months with me in Nassiriya, quot; Garen told Arab satellite television Al Jazeera by telephone. He was speaking from the Nassiriya office of rebel Shi #39;ite cleric Moqtada al-Sadr.

Group frees US journalist hostage in Iraq


Georgia's new president is offering a tax amnesty for people who hid earnings under the previous regime in an effort to boost the country's crumbling economy.

Georgia makes secret wealth offer


KIRKLAND - They had managed to avoid the injury bug, for the most part, for the first four games of the season. But misfortune finally caught up with the Seahawks the way it has with a bevy of other NFL teams.

Notebook: Injured Wistrom will miss 4-6 weeks


The Inland Revenue pays out nearly 1m compensation to people who have suffered because of tax credit errors or delays.

Tax credit compensation nears 1m


Scientists at the Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT) are working on software that will get to know you as well as your best mate - and even offers you advice.

Scientists create smart phone that doubles as your nanny


SAN FRANCISCO - In another twist to Google Inc.'s public stock offering, the Internet search company said federal regulators have opened an informal inquiry into its failure to register millions of shares.    In a regulatory filing Monday, Google said it

SEC Opens Inquiry Into Google Stock Issue


London - European scientists have developed light, flexible solar panels that could be sewn on fabrics and placed on surfaces to charge objects ranging from cellphones and DVD players to batteries.

Portable panels mean power in your pocket


Colorado Attorney General Ken Salazar on Friday announced final terms of a settlement over abusive trading practices at the defunct Invesco Funds Group and its sister company AIM Investments.

Final terms detailed on Invesco accord


Gordon Brown demanded today that Britain #39;s EU partners in the European Union open up their public procurement markets more fully after an official report suggested that that

Brown calls on EU partners to open up procurement


A New York Jury ruled that the two planes that hit the World Trade Center on September 11, 2001 were two separate events instead of one which increased the insurers liability by at least \$140 million.

World Trade Center Insurance Payoff Increased by Jury


Computer Associates International Inc. (CA) plans to cut 800 positions worldwide, 5 percent of its workforce, in hopes of shaving \$70 million annually off its operating costs.

CA cutting 5 percent of workforce


SAN FRANCISCO - Is Apple Computer Inc. fine-tuning an enhanced iPod with roughly 50 percent more storage and a color screen to display photos?

Fan sites buzz with talk of photo-ready iPod


SAN FRANCISCO - The Federal Energy Regulatory Commission improperly calculated how much money energy companies should be required to refund California consumers for allegedly excessive electricity costs, a federal appeals court ruled Thursday.

Court: Calif entitled to new hearing on energy refunds


AFP - The US Army has launched a new investigation into the tragic death of a former US football star, who turned down a lucrative sport career to fight the war on terror as a special forces soldier, a military official disclosed.

New probe opened into death of US football star-turned-soldier (AFP)


VIENNA (Reuters) - The analysis of soil samples taken by  U.N. inspectors at Lavizan, a site in Tehran that U.S.  officials suspect may be linked to an atomic weapons program,  shows no sign of nuclear activity, Western diplomats said.

No Sign of Nuke Work at Suspect Iran Site-Diplomats


AP - A week of rallies, marches and nearly 1,800 arrests left anti-Bush protesters drained and the city refuting allegations that demonstrators were held too long in police custody.

GOP Convention Closes With Milder Protests (AP)


While hanging a television on the living-room wall may have captured the imagination of American consumers, it has yet to empty many pocketbooks.

Look for lower prices on thin TVs


When the controversial Dutch artist and filmmaker Theo van Gogh was slain in an Amsterdam street last week by a Muslim suspect, it was more than a murder story.

Terrorism isnt just US, Israeli problem


Mirant Corp. (MIRKQ.PK: Quote, Profile, Research) has named its chief financial officer to the additional role of chief restructuring officer, the bankrupt power producer said on Thursday.

Mirant names CFO as chief restructuring officer


Corporate executives in Europe have taken steps to streamline operations to attract investors put off by delayed overhauls in economic policy that governments have yet to enact.

Europeans Streamline. Will the Market Notice?


Chicago, IL (Sports Network) - The Chicago Cubs Thursday declined to pick up the 2005 options on outfielder Moises Alou and second baseman Mark Grudzielanek, making the two veterans free agents.

Cubs cut loose Alou, Grudzielanek


Economic recovery is gathering speed in the euro zone and inflation prospects are favorable, the European Central Bank said on Thursday as it

ECB: Euro Growth Brightens, Holds Rates


AP - Air Force guard Dan Nwaelele will play Saturday against No. 3 Georgia Tech after being cleared of allegations that he cheated academically.

Air Force Clears Athlete of Cheating (AP)


AP - A short walk around the California campus this summer was all Geoff McArthur needed as proof of how much Golden Bears football has changed since his freshman year. A program that won only one game in 2001 and has the longest Rose Bowl drought of any Big Ten or Pac-10 team is finally getting noticed at a school more known for its protests than its passing.

High Expectations a New Feeling at Cal (AP)


MOSCOW -- Two Chechen women suspected of blowing up Russian passenger jets last month were briefly detained by police before the flights but bribed at least one airline employee to get on the planes, media reports said yesterday.

Bribes cited in downing of Russian jets


Reuters - U.S. Chief Justice William H.\Rehnquist, who was diagnosed with thyroid cancer in October,\will not be present when the Supreme Court reconvenes next week\to hear oral arguments, the Washington Post reported.

US Chief Justice Unable to Work Next Week-Report (Reuters)


Hurricane Ivan, with winds of 155 miles per hour, forced evacuations in Jamaica as it moved on a track toward Cuba and Florida, where residents braced for the third powerful storm to hit the state in a month.

Ivan Spurs Jamaica Evacuations; Florida Declared Emergency Area


Maria Sharapova reached the last four of the Korea Open after beating Australia #39;s Samantha Stosur 6-2 6-1. Taking centre court after a four-hour rain delay, Sharapova overwhelmed Stosur to set up a semi-final meeting with Anne Kremer of Luxembourg.

Sharapova overpowers Stosur


ATHENS -- Tom Pappas, a US gold medal favorite in the decathlon, saw his quest for an Olympic crown dashed yesterday by a serious foot injury that forced him to withdraw from the pole vault portion of the 10-event competition.

No finishing kick left for Pappas


Twenty years ago, I wrote a report called  quot;Retailer or Realtor, quot; that argued retailers had huge hidden real estate values.

Uphill battle for Sears/Kmart


NEW YORK, September 1 (New Ratings) - Microsoft (MSFT.NAS) reportedly intends to ship Longhorn, its next version of Windows operating system, without WinFS, the next-generation file system.

Microsoft strips Longhorn of WinFS


Jaguar workers will lobby Ford bosses at the Paris Motor Show over the threatened closure of the Browns Lane plant.

Group to lobby Ford over Jaguar


Britain #39;s Luke Donald continued his remarkable run in Europe by setting up the chance of a third win in seven events when he took over the Dunhill Links Championship lead on Saturday.

Briton Donald takes lead in Links title chase


Nokia is adding Secure Digital (SD) memory card capabilities to its range of mobile phones. It already uses MultiMediaCards (MMC) to add in games and third party software on its phones.

Nokia mobiles to be SD card capable


Violence between Muslims and Christians engulfed Liberia #39;s war-battered capital Friday, with machete-wielding crowds rampaging through the streets and UN peacekeepers firing warning shots and tear gas to restore order amid burned mosques and churches.

Violence Prompts Curfew in Liberia Capital


MOSCOWA terrorist attack brought down at least one of the two planes in this week #39;s near-simultaneous crashes in Russia, authorities said yesterday after investigators sifting through the wreckage found traces of an explosive at one of the crash sites.

Terror attack downed plane: Russia


Blade: Trinity, the new installment in the movie franchise about the human-vampire hybrid, doesn't get high marks for plot plausibility. But if you're looking for impressive scenes of on-screen carnage, the film delivers in full. By Jason Silverman.

Blade: The Art of Gore


Canadian Press - AL-FASHER, Sudan (AP) - Sudan, awaiting word on whether it will be sanctioned by the international community, hopes for a

U.S. envoy visits Darfur as UN deadline runs out; Nigerian troops go to Sudan (Canadian Press)


Oracle has extended its \$21-per-share tender offer to PeopleSoft #39;s shareholders, which was due to expire this week. The new deadline is September 10th.

Oracle Extends Bid for PeopleSoft


China urged the European Union yesterday to end  quot;political discrimination quot; and resume its arms trade, but failed to secure a clear commitment on the timing of such a move.

EU stalls over lifting China arms embargo


The other day, while announcing the results of her audit of the city #39;s contract with PR giant Fleishman-Hillard, Los Angeles City Controller Laura Chick touched on a bigger issue than the firm #39;s alleged \$4.2 million in overbilling.

Win friends, influence voters on public #39;s dime


In a report this week, the U.S. Department of Energy said inventory controls at the Los Alamos National Laboratory were not robust enough, and some computers were never entered into the lab's inventory database.

Report: Los Alamos lab needs better hardware inventory


JP McManus and John Magnier, the Irish racehorse owners, are to reject Malcolm Glazer #39;s 300p per share offer for their 29.9 per cent stake in Manchester United.

Irish duo to reject Glazer #39;s 780m Man U bid


AFP - Zimbabwe's main opposition leader took his campaign against President Robert Mugabe to Britain, rallying expatriates and declaring their destitute southern African country ready for

'We want regime change', Zimbabwe opposition leader tells Britain (AFP)


EAST RUTHERFORD, New Jersey (Sports Network) - Retired NBA  center and seven-time All- Star Alonzo Mourning is going to  give his playing career one more shot.

Zo Seeks Another Comeback with Nets


Bloomfield Township, Mich.- In the end Sunday, it seemed fit ting that Colin Mont gomerie, the spiritual leader of Europe #39;s Ryder Cup team, would seal ownership of the cup once again.

The Euros cash in


November 29, 2004 - IGN picked up Dragon Quest VIII on Saturday along side at least one full percent of the population of Japan, then rushed home to play the game.

Dragon Quest VIII Playtest


THE group led by Iraq #39;s most wanted terrorist, Abu Musab al-Zarqawi, says it was behind the convoy bombing in Baghdad yesterday that injured three Australian soldiers.

Zarqawi claims Aussie attack


Foundation Coal Holdings Inc. went public yesterday, raising \$519 million, most of which went to the owners of the company.

Foundation Coal Raises \$519 Million


HOFFMAN ESTATES, Ill. - Sears Canada fired its top executive Thursday over what it characterized as  quot;strategic differences quot; and enlisted the chief financial officer of parent company Sears, Roebuck and Co.

Sears Canada Board Fires Chair, CEO Cohen


Two separate teams of astronomers find Neptune-size planets beyond our solar system. Earth-like planets are just around the corner, they say. By Amit Asaravala.

Astronomers: More Earths Likely


The announcement Monday that a preliminary agreement reached between Iran and the European Union #39;s three big powers may be finalized soon is good news on several fronts.

The Iranian-European nuclear accord is good news on several fronts


He knows there is silverware inside somewhere, but the combination to the lock eludes him. Sir Alex Ferguson has been tinkering with different permutations for so long that nobody can now predict how Manchester

Des Kelly: D-Day looms for embattled Fergie


CHICAGO (Reuters) - The dollar posted mild gains against  most major currencies on Thursday after a U.S. jobless claims  report suggested stable job creation, although analysts said  Hurricane Charley likely skewed the weekly data.

Dollar Supported by Dip in Jobless Claims


Sammy Sosa was out of the lineup against the Montreal Expos yesterday because of bursitis in his right hip. And his replacement, Ben Grieve, was injured while making a catch.

NL notebook: Beware right field: Sosa, Grieve injured


The details of the next Beagle mission to Mars have been announced by the team behind Beagle 2. Lead Beagle scientist Colin Pilger has outlined plans for putting a new robotic laboratory on the Red Planet.

New Beagle mission plan revealed


IBM Corp. and Advanced Micro Devices Inc. (AMD) have tacked a three-year extension onto their December 2002 collaboration agreement that could see the two companies work on chip-making technologies based on a 32 nanometer process. The agreement was set to expire at the end of 2005, but now extends until Dec. 31, 2008.

IBM, AMD extend partnership to 32 nanometer technology


The bottlenose dolphins formed a protective shield around Niccy Howes, 15, and her friends, reports the Sun. The girls thought the dolphins were playing as they swam round them in tight circles, thrashing their tails near a New Zealand beach.

Dolphins save schoolgirls


Indianapolis, IN (Sports Network) - Indiana Pacers center Jeff Foster was activated from the injured list Tuesday. He had missed the first 17 games of the season after undergoing hip surgery in October.

Pacers #39; Foster activated from injured list


Leaders Olympique Lyon earned the title of Ligue 1 winter champions for the first time as a 1-1 draw at home to Olympique Marseille on Friday left them unbeaten

Lyon clinch first winter champions title with home draw


Reuters - Web search leader Google Inc.\said on Wednesday it will soon make it possible for users of\its free Gmail service to check their e-mail via Microsoft\Outlook or on certain handheld devices such as mobile phones.

Gmail Users Soon Able to Check E-Mail Via Outlook (Reuters)


The Minnesota Timberwolves didn't stop when the clock did. Kevin Garnett and Sam Cassell combined for 11 straight points after the game clock malfunctioned, and the Timberwolves went on to a 121-110 victory over the host Sacramento Kings last night.

Hughes is huge in Wizards' win


By ELIZABETH M. GILLESPIE     SEATTLE (AP) -- Former Vice President Al Gore touted the promise of stem-cell research for curing debilitating and deadly diseases on Friday - using his pitch to stump for fellow Democrats Christine Gregoire and Dave Ross...

Al Gore Touts Promise of Stem-Cell Research


FT.com - A new weekly music television show that will showcase charts for mobile phone ringtones and music downloads is to be aired on ITV1 in a sign of the growing influence of both the mobile phone and the internet on music sales.

Ringtone chartshow to air on British TV (FT.com)


Helsinki, Finland - The delegation representing the city of Berlin on Saturday successfully won its bid to host the 2009 IAAF World Championships in Athletics, ahead of strong challenges from Split and Valencia.

Berlin to host 2009 World Championships


After her 22.31 victory in the 200 meter semi-finals at the 2003 World Indoor Championships, the first of two national records she would set in as many days, Michelle Collins was fighting back tears.

Athletics: From Tears Of Joy To Eight Year Ban For Collins


Former industrialist Lord Hanson, one of the biggest figures in corporate history, has died from cancer, the BBC reports. He was 82.

Industrialist Lord Hanson dies at 82


NEW YORK (Reuters) - The dollar slipped  on Friday, after  Federal Reserve Chairman Alan Greenspan's remarks on the U.S.  trade gap and on foreign demand for dollar-denominated  assets.

Dollar Slips After Greenspan Remarks


1998: Wins Premiership with club-record 10 consecutive League wins. Arsenal equal Manchester United #39;s record of two Doubles when they beat Newcastle in the FA Cup final.

Arsene Wenger  the Arsenal years


A more joined-up approach to net safety is needed if government is to get the message home to citizens.

Government warns of net dangers


At least 17 people are dead and nearly 100 others wounded in car bombings in the Iraqi capital and the northern city of Mosul. Fourteen people died in two Baghdad bombings.

Iraq: Car-Bomb Carnage in Baghdad, Mosul


Investors hoping for reassurance from Merck (MRK ) execs in light of recent problems got little besides generalities at the Dec. 14 meeting at the company #39;s Whitehouse Station, NJ, headquarters.

At Merck, There Are No Easy Answers


WASHINGTON (Reuters) - Orders for long-lasting U.S.-made  goods unexpectedly slipped 0.4 percent last month as demand for  computers, cars and civilian aircraft slumped, a government  report showed on Wednesday.

Durable Goods Orders Slip Unexpectedly


NEW BRITAIN, Conn. -- The Stanley Works has agreed to buy Indianapolis-based Security Group Inc., a maker of locks and access systems.

Stanley buying Indianapolis lock firm


Bernie Williams sent a drive soaring to left-center field, raised his right arm in triumph, and circled the bases.

Yankees' 100th clinches division


TOKYO (Reuters) - The yen trimmed losses made against the  dollar earlier on Thursday, but gains were limited as investors  refrained from taking fresh positions ahead of the Bank of  Japan's quarterly survey of corporate sentiment.

Yen Trims Losses as Tankan, G7 Eyed


Tokyo stocks plunged more than 2 percent Monday morning and the US dollar traded just above its four-and-half-year lows against the yen, following a dollar selloff in New York on concerns over the swollen US trade deficit.

Update 2: Tokyo Stocks Plunge; Dollar Trades Lower


Rubens Barrichello claimed the inaugural Chinese Grand Prix on Sunday, with Ferrari teammate Michael Schumacher finishing a hard-luck weekend in 12th place, more than a lap behind.

Barrichello wins China Grand Prix


Forbes, the respected US financial magazine, says a National Hockey League-sponsored audit of its 30 teams overstated losses by \$151 million US.

NHL padding losses, Forbes says


NewsFactor - A virus aimed at users of next-generation mobile phones is making the\rounds, casing headaches for those using handhelds based on the popular\Symbian operating system.

Trojan Targets Symbian Handhelds (NewsFactor)


Making use of the current trend to send festive greetings via email, a new virus is making the rounds. A variant of the ZAFI worm, the WORM_Zafi.

Internet worm disguises itself as electronic Xmas card


Peter Mandelson provoked fresh Labour in-fighting yesterday with an implied attack on Gordon Brown #39;s  quot;exaggerated gloating quot; about the health of the British economy.

Mandelson stirs dissent with swipe at  #39;gloating #39; Brown


In a bid to relieve Western economies of the unprecedented rise in oil prices, Saudi Arabia has slashed prices for its crude sales for October.

Oil prices calm


AFP - French President Jacques Chirac, who vowed to forge a

Chirac vows 'true partnership' with Libya (AFP)


It #39;s a key argument in the use of file-sharing services -- and it #39;s one that the United States Supreme Court says it will take up.

US top court to weigh in on file sharing


A rock dubbed  quot;Uchben quot; in the  quot;Columbia Hills quot; inside Gusev Crater is seen in this photo released Thursday, Nov. 4, 2004 taken by the Mars Rover Spirit.

Mars Rovers Get Mystery Power Boost


ArvinMeritor Inc. (NYSE: ARM), a Troy, Mich.-based auto parts manufacturer, announced Thursday that it plans to divest its interest in two businesses.

ArvinMeritor to sell some operations


AP - The San Diego Padres signed infielders Damian Jackson and Jesse Garcia to minor league contracts Wednesday and invited them to spring training.

Padres Sign Jackson and Garcia to Minors (AP)


NEW YORK (Reuters) - CNNfn, the financial news cable  network owned by Time Warner Inc., on Thursday said it will  cease operating by mid-December, after fighting a losing battle  against the far larger rival CNBC.

CNNfn Network to Close by Mid-December


Alan Shearer and Patrick Kluivert teamed up to fire Newcastle into the group stage of the UEFA Cup with a striking master-class in Tel Aviv.

Shearer just the trick for Toon


AFP - Japan took up with China the issue of a suspicious submarine that intruded into its waters amid alarm in Tokyo that the vessel was a show of strength from its neighbour and growing competitor.

Japan raises submarine issue with China: report (AFP)


Israel and Egypt signed a trade deal yesterday that could ensure thousands of Egyptian jobs and secure the two countries #39; often problematic relations.

Egypt and Israel sign US-brokered trade agreement


The Federal Communications Commission seized regulatory control over Internet-based telephone services by issuing an order that sharply limited the role of state regulators.

F.C.C. Takes on Oversight of Internet Phone Services


Nordstrom reported a strong second-quarter profit as it continued to select more relevant inventory and sell more items at full price.

Nordstrom profit soars in quarter, but not enough for Wall St.


The game-by-game story of how this Red Sox-Cardinals World Series matchup plays itself out is going to add a new chapter to Sox history. However, we'll also be keeping an eye on one of the lesser stories that will reflect the big news from the Series.

Pressed into service


NEW YORK, October 19 (newratings.com) - Gold Fields Limited (GFI.NYS) has rejected Harmony Gold Mining Company #39;s recently announced takeover bid through an all-stock deal valued at about \$8.

Gold Fields rejects Harmony Gold #39;s \$8.1bn takeover offer


ATHENS (Reuters) - Natalie Coughlin's run of bad luck  finally took a turn for the better when she won the gold medal  in the women's 100 meters backstroke at the Athens Olympics  Monday.

Gold at Last for U.S. Swimmer Coughlin


Based on information gathered during the recent fighting in Fallujah, Baghdad and elsewhere in the Sunni Triangle, officials said that a handful of senior Iraqi Baathists operating in Syria are collecting money and turning it over to the insurgency.

U.S.: Rebels Aided by Sources in Syria


Yasser Arafat #39;s nephew has turned over the late Palestinian leader #39;s medical records to a committee investigating the cause of his uncle #39;s death.

Arafat #39;s Medical Records Given to Palestinian Authority


Greek authorities have charged athletes Kostas Kenteris and Katerina Thanou with avoiding a drug test prior to the Athens Olympics and then faking a motorcycle accident.

Kenteris, Thanou charged for crash


Consumers return to stores in October, but holiday shopping looks tame. Oil holds above \$50 per barrel. Constellation seals the deal for Mondavi.

Stocks steady on retail results


Commanders say success in Iraq may depend on units like Strike Force Two, and the raids they launch almost nightly.

Marines' Raids Underline Push in Crucial Area


There are times in the life of a minority government when the biggest hurdle on the horizon is not a vote it stands to lose but rather one it can #39;t avoid winning.

Missile shield talks lose-lose case for PM


Shares of Merck and Co. plunged nearly 27 percent Thursday on news that the pharmaceutical giant was pulling the popular arthritis pain medication Vioxx off the market in the largest drug withdrawal in US history.

Arthritis drug pulled for heart risk


Athens (dpa) - Petros VII, a senior cleric in the Greek Orthodox Church, was among 17 killed Saturday when their helicopter crashed into the Aegean Sea, the Greek defence ministry confirmed.

Senior Greek Orthodox cleric killed in helicopter crash


Entering the final round tied with Kate Golden with a two-stroke lead over the rest of the field, Park birdied eight holes to hold off Annika Sorenstam and defending champion Shi Hyun Ahn and win the \$1.

Park hangs on to win Nine Bridges


AP - Marine scientists say they have discovered 178 new species of fish and hundreds more new species of plants and other animals in the past year, raising the number of life-forms found in the world's oceans to about 230,000.

Scientists Find 178 New Species in Oceans (AP)


Baxter International has pulled its flu vaccine from a clinical trial in Britain because of side effects. Baxter, of Deerfield, Ill.

Baxter pulls flu vaccine from British test


Ex-general Susilo Bambang Yudhoyono is on course for a landslide victory over incumbent Megawati Sukarnoputri after Indonesia #39;s presidential election yesterday, according to an early forecast.

Ex-general set for landslide victory


Amid a reevaluation, officials this week pushed the completion date for venues back to 2007.

Eye on Athens, China stresses a 'frugal' 2008 Olympics


NEW YORK (Reuters) - Title holder and top seed Amelie  Mauresmo received an easy passage into the final of the Advanta  Championships in Philadelphia on Saturday when Maria Sharapova  was forced out of the event with a sore shoulder.

Mauresmo Through to Final After Sharapova Withdraws


Reuters - U.S. insurers on Monday predicted that\Hurricane Charley could be the most costly U.S. storm since\Andrew in 1992, with Florida officials initially estimating\economic losses at  #36;15 billion.

Insurers Begin Tallying Charley Losses (Reuters)


Worthington Industries CIO Jonathan Dove tells Computerworld that he sees the role of the CIO changing.

Q A: Worthington Industries CIO Jonathan Dove on ERP upgrade


Reuters - UAL Corp.'s (UALAQ.OB) United Airlines\on Friday said it has agreed with its creditors committee to a\30-day extension on the period in which it can file an\exclusive bankruptcy reorganization plan.

UAL, Creditors Agree to 30-Day Extension (Reuters)


Like the Jets-Chargers matchup, all of the weekend's N.F.L. wild-card playoff games feature one intriguing theme: You again?

Rematch Doesn't Necessarily Mean Repeat


Langdon Gilkey was a prominent Protestant theologian who argued for a rational, even satisfying, co-existence between science and faith.

Langdon Gilkey, 85, Theorist on Nexus of Faith and Science, Dies


US troops went on the offensive from the gates of Baghdad to the Syrian border, pounding Sunni insurgent positions from the air and supporting Iraqi soldiers in raids on mosques suspected of harboring extremists.

The latest developments in Iraq


Mayor Anthony A. Williams isn #39;t giving up on Major League Baseball in Washington, saying Thursday that District of Columbia officials are working hard behind the scenes to get an acceptable deal done by the Dec.

Officials working behind the scenes


quot; #39;Chang #39;e quot; #39;, is one of the most talked about names among the Chinese, this is not only because it is the name of a beautiful angel in ancient Chinese legend, who is living in the moon, but more importantly, it has become a code name of the moon- probing

quot; #39;Chang #39;e quot; flying to the moon is just round the corner: Viewpoint


Installation bugs barely dent the greatness of Half-Life 2, says reviewer James Bregman.

No half measures with Half-Life 2


AP - Lame-duck Gov. Gary Locke may not be limping off into the sunset. If the slugfest between Republican Dino Rossi and Democrat Christine Gregoire doesn't produce a new governor by the scheduled Jan. 12 inauguration, Locke may have to stick around.

Locke May Stay Longer As Wash. Governor (AP)


The voters say Oklahoma is still the number-two team in the nation. The computers say otherwise. The Sooners check in at third in the initial edition of the BCS standings, taking a backseat to a Miami team

Sooners Bumped Back By BCS


PORT-AU-PRINCE - Prime Minister Paul Martin #39;s one-day visit to Haiti has not produced any new foreign aid commitments, but it did prompt Martin to warn his hosts that democracy will never flourish in an atmosphere where  quot;people are afraid for their lives

Martin says violence preventing democracy from taking hold in <b>...</b>


Why did a Lake Tahoe-area peak move dramatically late last year? A new report says magma deep below surged upward, forcing the mountain to rise.

Magma Surge Moves Nevada Mountain, Study Says


Wide adoption of the latest Explorer patch may be hindered because it requires more effort than the typical Windows update.  quot;This one #39;s going to take a little more effort, quot; said Ken Dunham of iDefense.

Microsoft Issues Out-of-Cycle Explorer Patch


Liverpool kicked off their Champions League campaign with an impressive 2-0 win over last season #39;s finalists, AS Monaco. Rafael Benitez #39;s side went ahead through a clever goal - Steven Gerrard and Luis Garcia

Liverpool boss  quot;satisfied quot; after Monaco win


AP - Voters can be forgiven for assuming the courts may once again settle the presidential election.

Pre-Election Suits Feed Election Doubts (AP)


IBM and several of the world #39;s leading scientific and philanthropic groups this week launched a project that would put millions of PCs to work on research problems ranging from Alzheimer #39;s to disaster forecasting.

Grid project puts unused PCs to work


SEATTLE --(Business Wire)-- Nov. 16, 2004 -- The Institute for Systems Biology (ISB) announced today that in partnership with IBM, United Devices and the University of Washington, it has launched the Human Proteome Folding Project on World Community Grid.

IBM and Institute for Systems Biology to Fold Human Proteome on <b>...</b>


LONDON (Reuters) - The dollar hit 8-month lows against the  euro and traded near multi-month lows against other major  currencies on Friday on worries about the U.S. economy and its  ability to attract global investors.

Dollar Hits 8-Month Lows Vs. Euro


Red Hat Inc. has gone scavenging among Netscape's remains, agreeing Thursday to pay America Online Inc. (AOL) up to \$23 million in cash for the assets of Netscape Communications Corp.'s Security Solutions unit.

Red Hat picks up pieces of Netscape


2004-12-15 11:01:48 Oil - Brent higher on US cold snap ahead of this afternoon #39;s US inventories LONDON (AFX) - Oil prices were higher in pre-market deals ahead of this afternoon #39;s US weekly inventory data, with winter heating oil

LATEST FUTURES NEWS


IBM and Honda have teamed-up and developed a hands-free and natural sounding in-vehicle speech recognization system. This system will be integrated in Honda #39;s Acura RL 2005 model and will be offered as an optional accessory in Honda Odyssey 2005 model.

IBM and Honda team-up to improve speech recognization system


Researchers at Bristol University, in the UK, have reproduced an ancient Roman cosmetic face cream from a 2000 year-old original, which was discovered intact at an ongoing archaeological dig in London.

Ancient Roman Cosmetic Face Cream Discovered


Jason Gillespie produced a superb spell of pace bowling to rout India for 104 but Anil Kumble grabbed a five-wicket haul to lead the fightback on the second day of the fourth and final test on Thursday.

UPDATE 2-Gillespie routs India but Kumble hits back


Former NFL running back Ricky Williams has asked the league to hold a hearing to clarify his playing status. Williams, who is reported to be considering a comeback, wants to know

Williams asks for hearing to clear status


Eleven fans were arrested after clashing with police at the Carling Cup soccer match between Chelsea and West Ham. Police in riot gear were confronted by the visiting West Ham supporters

Eleven Fans Arrested after Chelsea-West Ham Game


Capital Radio and GWR Group say they plan to merge in an all-share, nil-premium deal that will create the dominant company in the UK radio sector.

Capital Radio and GWR to merge


A landslide engulfs a village in southern China, leaving 65 people missing, state media reports

Landslide buries Chinese village


AP - Jason Giambi returned to the New York Yankees' lineup Tuesday night for the first time since July 23, batting sixth against the Kansas City Royals.

Giambi Returns to Yankees' Lineup (AP)


The first commercial flight from the United States to Vietnam since the war nearly 30 years ago has taken off from San Francisco. The new service to Ho Chi Minh City, run by United Airlines, will fly daily.

US airline starts Vietnam flights


Doom 3 has blasted away the competition at a major games ceremony, the Golden Joystick awards.

'Ultimate game' award for Doom 3


Hilton Hotels Corp. (HLT.N: Quote, Profile, Research) on Monday said third-quarter earnings almost doubled as business and leisure travel increased, filling its big urban hotels.

Hilton Profit Up on Travel Recovery


NEW YORK (Reuters) - Eli Lilly and Co. said on Wednesday it  has acquired exclusive worldwide rights to an insomnia drug  being developed by Germany's Merck KGaA.

Eli Lilly Acquires Rights to Sleep Drug


Finance ministers from the Group of 20 rich or emerging countries have wrapped up a two-day summit in Berlin without making explicit reference to the sagging value of the US dollar against the euro.

G-20 skirts sliding dollar


The steady rain was getting to Bronson Arroyo, and not because it presented the clear and present danger of frizzing his cornrows.  quot;It's pretty slick out there, quot; he reported, 2 hours 10 minutes before the scheduled start of Game 3 last night.  quot;It's very difficult to get your footing. I don't like it. It will be tough ...

No raindrops on Arroyo


AP - The game between the Atlanta Braves and the Philadelphia Phillies on Tuesday was postponed because of a steady rain that began Monday night.

Phillies-Braves Game Postponed by Rain (AP)


Beazer Homes USA Inc., a homebuilder based in Atlanta, on Friday posted a 40 percent surge in profit for its latest quarter amid growth in new-home orders.

Update 1: Beazer Homes #39; Profit Soars on New Homes


FORT PIERCE, Fla. - Weakened but persistent, Tropical Storm Frances took aim at the Florida Panhandle on Monday after causing flooding and tearing roofs off buildings throughout a wide swath of central and southern Florida...

Frances Takes Aim at Florida Panhandle


One of the top 10 spammers in the US has been sentenced to nine years in prison for illegal spam activities under Virginia #39;s anti-spam law.

Spammer Receives 9 Year Prison Sentence


NEW YORK (Reuters) - Advancis Pharmaceutical Corp.  <A HREF=

Advancis: Funds Through Early 2006


US Secretary of State Colin Powell pressed North Korea on Sunday to return to nuclear disarmament talks even as he branded the communist country a  quot;terrorist state quot; that has  quot;no respect for human rights.

Powell: North Korea is a  #39;terrorist state #39;


Grand Prairie, TX (Sports Network) - Former Horse of the Year Azeri will run against the boys Saturday in the Breeders #39; Cup Classic.

Azeri to take on the boys in Breeders #39; Cup Classic


A sloppy handoff contributes to the United States losing to Britain by a hundredth of a second Saturday in the 400-meter relay. The U.S. men and women sweep the 1,600 relay.

U.S.  Lose 400 Relay


At least two people die and 50 are hurt when a train plunges into a ravine in the Philippines, officials say.

Two die in Philippine train crash


ConocoPhillips, the third-largest US oil company by sales, is set to pay at least \$1.9 billion for the Russian government #39;s remaining stake in OAO Lukoil, the nation #39;s largest oil producer.

ConocoPhillips Set to Win \$1.9 Bln Sale of Russian Lukoil Stake


The Minneapolis-based National Institute on Media and the Family has just released its annual video game report card in Washington.

Many underage boys have little trouble buying M-rated games


Reuters - Rescuers dug the bodies of six\members of one family -- a couple and their four children --\out of the rubble of an Iraqi house bombed by U.S. warplanes on\Wednesday, witnesses said.

Family of Six Found Dead in Iraqi Home Hit by U.S. (Reuters)


Aides to the country #39;s most powerful Shiite leader said they had reached a tentative agreement on Thursday to end the three-week siege in this holy

Tentative Accord Reached in Najaf to End Fighting


RYAN GIGGS insists demands on Wayne Rooney should be kept to a minimum to avoid premature burnout. The 18-year-old #39;s hat-trick debut at Old Trafford sent Manchester United fans into a frenzy.

FOOTBALL: GIGGS: DON #39;T BURN HIM OUT


Sun President Jonathan Schwartz has a pre-Halloween case of the creeps--and for good reason.

Things that scare Sun's Schwartz


AFP - The Hutu rebel movement which has claimed responsibility for last week's massacre of about 160 Congolese Tutsis at a refugee camp in Burundi said it was ready to appear before an international tribunal.

Burundi rebel group ready to appear before international tribunal (AFP)


Forget about cumbersome, multifunctional PDAs. The future is an open book. By Bruce Sterling from Wired magazine.

Dumbing Down Smart Objects


AMSTERDAM (Reuters) - U.S. computer company Hewlett-Packard  said on Wednesday it was expanding a built-to-order system for  personal computers and other high volume computer products,  similar to rival Dell.

HP Trials Built-To-Order PCs to Reduce Risk


WASHINGTON (Reuters) - The U.S. Securities and Exchange  Commission barred U.S. mutual funds on Wednesday from  channeling brokerage commissions toward Wall Street firms based  on their promotion of the funds' shares.

SEC Bars Some Mutual Fund Fees


BERLIN : Bayern Munich manager Felix Magath showed no sentiment towards his former club VfB Stuttgart with his new side triumphing 3-0 to reach the quarter-finals of the German Cup.

Soccer: Bayern beat Stuttgart 3-0 to reach last eight of German <b>...</b>


ATHENS (Reuters) - The United States beat world champions  Germany 2-1 in a fierce struggle Monday to reach the final of  the Olympic women's soccer tournament.

U.S. Women Battle Into Olympic Final


AOL is getting serious about security - if you pay them an extra \$1.95 to \$4.95 a month. Grandma #39;s favorite ISP has teamed with RSA Security to offer an optional login service that provides a second layer of authentication to prevent identity theft.

AOL: Serious about security - for a price


Brett Tomko allowed one run in six innings for his first win in nearly a month, and the San Francisco Giants closed in on the wild-card lead with a 3-1 victory over the Phillies yesterday in Philadelphia, completing a three-game sweep.

Giants finish off Phillies


Tom Shanklin scores a record-equalling four tries as Wales overwhelm Romania.

Rugby U: Wales crush Romania


AP - A federal appeals court on Monday revived a lawsuit seeking a paper trail for Florida's new touchscreen voting machines with only five weeks left before the presidential election.

Trial Ordered in Fla. E-Ballot Lawsuit (AP)


Parmalat SpA is suing 45 financial institutions to try to claw back money lost in the runup to its crash a year ago, the Italian dairy giant said Thursday.

Parmalat Announces Suits Against 45 Banks


OAKLAND, Calif., (Sports Network) - Travis Niesen scored a  career-high 26 points, Kyle Bailey added 20 and Santa Clara  shocked No. 4 North Carolina with a 77-66 victory in a Pete  Newell Challenge game at The Arena.

Santa Clara Shocks 4th-Ranked North Carolina


America's factories saw orders for costly manufactured goods in July post the biggest gain in four months, an encouraging sign that the economy is emerging from an early summer funk.

Durable Goods Orders Rise in July


Saks Fifth Avenue, Carmel Plaza #39;s retail anchor for nearly two decades, will close in January, the company announced Friday. Shoppers who fancy the high-end store that boasts such brands

SAKS FIFTH AVENUE CLOSING


Robert Pires scored twice as Arsenal beat Aston Villa 3-1 in English soccer #39;s Premiership to extend its advantage in the standings to five points.

Arsenal Beats Aston Villa 3-1 in Premiership to Extend Lead


Amazon.com has entered the search-engine wars with the debut of A9.com. The site, which relies on Google search technology, includes personalization features like a running log of sites visited

Is Search About To Be Amazoned?


WASHINGTON (Reuters) - Consumer Reports magazine, best  known for comparing the prices and performance of cars,  televisions and washing machines, is adding drugs to its  coverage to help Americans save money on their health care.

Consumer Reports Adds Drugs to Price Comparison


Rentokil Initial, supplier of services ranging from security guards and pest control to conferences and exotic plants, has ruled out breaking itself up, despite tumbling profits and a swirl of takeover speculation.

Rentokil rules out break-up


SAN FRANCISCO (Reuters) - PeopleSoft Inc. <A HREF=

PeopleSoft Posts Third-Quarter Profit


The NHL Players #39; Association offered to slash the salary of Flyers goalie Robert Esche by \$186,000 Thursday. Understandably, Esche wasn #39;t real happy about it.

Esche willing to trade \$186G for a prosperous NHL


Six of the seven Pitcairn Island men charged with raping and indecently assaulting girls as young as 12 have been found guilty by a British court on the remote South Pacific island, a British official says.

Six Pitcairn men guilty of rape


TOKYO : Shares in ailing Japanese retailer Daiei Inc. jumped 16 percent after US giant Wal-Mart Stores Inc. confirmed it was interested in aiding the firm #39;s revival.

Daiei shares soar as Wal-Mart confirms interest in ailing retailer


LONDON (Dow Jones)--Goldman Sachs (GS) and private equity company Carlyle Group are considering a GBP1.6 billion-plus counter offer to halt the sale of Northern Ireland pharmaceutical company Warner Chilcott (WCRX, WCRX.

UK PRESS: Goldman-Carlyle Mull Warner Chilcott Counterbid


Wine and beer distributor Constellation Brands Inc. (STZ.N: Quote, Profile, Research) on Tuesday said it launched an unsolicited \$970 million offer for winemaker Robert Mondavi Corp.

Constellation Bids \$970 Mln for Mondavi


A clutch shot and flawless performance by US Open champion Retief Goosen. A rare collapse by Tiger Woods. In a fitting end to the PGA Tour season, the unflappable Goosen closed with a 6-under-par 64 to win

Goosen Overtakes Woods at the End


American Bode Miller won his first World Cup super-giant slalom Sunday, making him the first man to open an Alpine World Cup season with victories in three different disciplines and just the fifth skier to win a World Cup race in all four disciplines.

Bode Miller takes super-G event


AFP - A group calling itself the  quot;Jihad Organization quot; said it had  quot;slaughtered quot; two Italian female hostages in Iraq, in a statement posted on an Islamist website.

Group claims execution of Italian hostages in Iraq: website (AFP)


Bloggers enjoy a moment of glory after pooling their expertise to uncover the truth about the forged memos on Bush #39;s service record.

Blogs look burly after kicking sand on CBS


Second-largest home improvement retailer continues to produce strong results.

Lowe's Optimistic Outlook


LONDON -- Syria wants to renew peace talks with Israel without preconditions and no longer insists that talks should resume exactly where they left off in 2000, its ambassador to London said yesterday.

Syria ready to renew peace talks with Israel, envoy says


TOKYO (Reuters) - A Japanese chess great who plans to marry  former world champion Bobby Fischer and help him avoid  deportation home to the United States declared herself on  Thursday to be a pawn seeking to become a queen.

Ex-Chess Champ Fischer's Marriage Plans Hit Snag


PORT-AU-PRINCE - UN peacekeepers and Haitian police have arrested dozens of enraged supporters of ousted president Jean-Bertrand Aristide.

Aristide supporters threaten continued violence in Haiti


Reuters - Pharmacy chain CVS Corp. on Thursday\said it would offer the world's first disposable digital camera\with a bright color viewing screen that allows consumers to\instantly preview pictures.

Drugstore Offers New Wave of Disposable Cameras (Reuters)


France have kept the side which beat Australia last weekend for their game against Argentina next Saturday.  quot;We decided not to change an iota from a team which gave us complete

In-form French will stay unchanged


Elliott Sadler knelt beside the wheelchair of 9-year-old Taylor Downard behind his hauler before Fridays final practice for tonights race at Lowes Motor Speedway.

Sadler hopes to sneak up on title


The question seemed fair enough:  quot;Can you discuss the differences between coaching in a major-league city like Pittsburgh and a college town like Storrs, Conn.

UConn, Pitt go their different ways


AP - The Baltimore Ravens have put a lid on the trash talk this week. With an 0-1 record, a depleted offensive line and a thin receiving corps, the defending AFC North champs have more on their minds than merely trading barbs with their hated rivals, the Pittsburgh Steelers.

Respectful Ravens Prepare for Steelers (AP)


Mortgage rates around the country crept up this week, although 30-year mortgages still were below the 6 percent level for a fourth straight week, Freddie Mac reported Thursday.

Mortgage rates edge higher


The death toll in a gas explosion in a Chinese coal mine rose to 64 on Friday and chances that 84 missing miners might still be alive were  quot;quite slim, #39; #39; the government said.

Death toll rises in Chinese coal mine explosion


MADRID, Spain - A film about Iraqi villagers desperate for a satellite dish as they await the U.S. invasion won the top prize Saturday at Spain's leading film festival...

Iraq War Tale Wins at Spanish Film Fest


As people will remind you, it's the season to give -- and so we're in a giving mood for Week 12. Four choices, four favorites selected, four different scenarios.

But seriously, folks


Reuters - Carmakers presented new-age automobiles\at the Paris car show on Thursday that could give much-hyped\fuel cells a run for their money in the coming market for\vehicles that do less damage to the environment.

Rival Technologies Vie for 'Green' Car of Tomorrow (Reuters)


Michael Mondavi, a director of wine maker Robert Mondavi Corp., has resigned from the board after his comments in the press undermined the company #39;s efforts to overhaul its business, the company said.

Mondavi Director Quits Under Pressure


Kevin Garnett made two free throws with five seconds remaining Monday to give the Minnesota Timberwolves an 83-82 victory over the Dallas Mavericks.

NBA: Minnesota 83, Dallas 82


Rockstar has released a new trailer for Grand Theft Auto: San Andreas just before its release next week. The trailer shows more of the same drive-by shootings, but one tid-bit of information we didn #39;t know

New GTA: San Andreas Tr


Reuters - The trial of seven Pitcairn Island men,\descendants of the 18th century Bounty mutineers, began on\Wednesday with the mayor the first to face charges of rape and\underage sex, Television New Zealand reported.

Pitcairn Mayor 'Led Rape' on Island -Prosecutor (Reuters)


US oil major ConocoPhillips is seeking to buy up to 25 percent in Russian oil giant Lukoil to add billions of barrels of reserves to its books, an industry source familiar with the matter said on Friday.

ConocoPhillips may buy up to 25 of Russia #39;s Lukoil


The latest web browser usage survey shows Mozilla #39;s share is rising at the expense of Internet Explorer. The browser has increased its market share to 7.4 percent, from 2.1 percent in May.

Mozilla #39;s share is rising


Three companies accused of falsely advertising multimillion-dollar estate sales and auctions of property seized by the federal government or county sheriffs have signed settlement agreements with Massachusetts Attorney General Thomas F. Reilly.

State regulators, in a bid to ensure accurate auction ads, target firms


The world's tallest bridge, higher even than the Eiffel Tower, is being inaugurated by the French president.

France shows off tallest bridge


Users accustomed to removing the memory card from one of their consumer electronic devices and plugging it into another will soon be able to do the same with mobile phones from Nokia Corp.

Nokia embraces SD memory cards


While many unhappy alumni claim Tyrone Willingham is the latest coach to erode the Irish #39;s king-sized status, it #39;s also important to note that Notre Dame hasn

Irish could silence some critics with win over the Vols


If something looks too good to be true, it probably is. That seems to be the case with US gymnast Paul Hamm #39;s miraculous gold-medal win at the Athens Olympics.

Give back the gold


AP - With both offenses going nowhere, all the Baltimore Ravens needed was a few big plays by safety Ed Reed. Reed scored a touchdown on a safety blitz, stopped Clinton Portis on a third-and-1 and sprung B.J. Sams for a 78-yard punt return, all in a 2 1/2-minute span in the third quarter. The Ravens scored 14 points without their struggling offense taking the field and that was more than enough to rally from a 10-0 halftime deficit in Sunday night's 17-10 victory over the punchless Washington Redskins.

Ravens Beat Redskins 17-10 on Big Plays (AP)


It was a victory that occurred with all the subtlety of a bulldozer. The 9-3 thrashing that the Sox delivered in Anaheim proved so complete, so convincing, that it left few

Sox Beat: Schilling eager to live up to billing


Reuters - The United States has released 11 Afghans\held at Guantanamo Bay in Cuba on suspicion of Taliban links\after a request from President Hamid Karzai, an Afghan official\said on Wednesday.

U.S. Frees 11 Afghan Prisoners at Karzai's Request (Reuters)


Micron Technology Inc., the No. 3 computer memory chip maker, on Wednesday reported a quarterly profit on stronger pricing, reversing a year-earlier loss.

Micron Sales Rise 34 Pct


AP - Venezuelan President Hugo Chavez, after meeting with his Colombian counterpart in this Spanish colonial city, swore to treat any illegal, armed Colombian group that enters his country as an enemy of state.

Venezuelan, Colombian Leaders Hold Talks (AP)


Boeing would lose last year's deal to lease and sell aircraft refueling tankers to the Air Force, while a plan to close some bases would go forward under a nearly \$450 billion defense bill moving toward approval in the House.

Defense Bill Would Nullify \$23B Boeing Deal


Apple is the undisputed champion of the hard-drive music market, but competitors are gearing up for a shot at the title.

This week in iPod news


A plane owned by the Hendrick Motorsports organization crashed with 10 people aboard on its way to a race Sunday, the Federal Aviation Administration said.

Hendrick Plane Crashes En Route to Nascar Race


Amid the torrent of jabber in Internet chat rooms -- flirting by QTpie and BoogieBoy, arguments about politics and horror flicks -- are terrorists plotting their next move?

US funds study on Net chat-room surveillance


Roger Clemens can relax. For now, Pete Munro is the Houston Astros' pick to pitch them into the World Series.

Astros Pick Munro to Pitch Game 6 of N.L.C.S.


The software juggernaut that conquered the desktop is racing to get Windows into your next car.

Car crazy: Microsoft in the driver's seat


MADRID (Reuters) - Prime Minister Jose Luis Rodriguez  Zapatero Monday strongly defended Spain's withdrawal of troops  from Iraq after the March 11 Madrid train bombings that killed  191 people.

Spain Defends Its Iraq Troop Withdrawal


PERTH (Dow Jones)--Santos Ltd. (STOSY) said Monday that its Jeruk 2 well struck oil off the East Java coast, raising hopes of a 170 million barrel discovery for the Australian energy group.

UPDATE: Australia #39;s Santos Strikes Oil Off East Java


Reuters - Ukraine's parliament meets on Saturday to\debate a disputed presidential election a day after Western\mediators trying to end the turmoil gripping major cities\managed to persuade the two rivals to start talks.

Ukraine's Parliament to Debate Election Crisis (Reuters)


AP - The Denver Broncos took care of the Indianapolis 'B' team and earned the right to face Peyton Manning and the real Colts next week in the playoffs. Jake Plummer threw for 246 yards and two touchdowns Sunday to lift the Broncos to a 33-14 victory over the watered-down Colts and qualify for the AFC's final wild-card spot.

Broncos Beat Colts, Earn Wild-Card Spot (AP)


NEW YORK - The curse is dead. Last night #39;s 3-0 win by the Boston Red Sox ended 85 years of World Series futility. Fans celebrated into the early morning, as they no longer have to endure chants of  quot;1918 quot; (the year of their last World Series win).

No More Curse, But No Windfall Either


WASHINGTON (CBS.MW) -- To understand why phone industry executives are so excited about their plans to offer TV service, it helps to know about the technology that will make it possible.

Analysis: SBC, others pose big challenge to cable


AFP - An Australian song-share website which offered links to music download sites was dubbed one of the world's largest copyright infringers in a landmark 500 million Australian dollar (374 million US) case.

Australia court hears case against song-share website owner (AFP)


KARACHI -- After eight years in jail on corruption charges, the husband of former prime minister Benazir Bhutto was released on bail yesterday, officials said, in a move the government called a step toward ''political harmony quot; with her opposition party.

Spouse of Pakistan president's rival gets bail


The Montreal Expos reinstated right-handers Tomo Ohka and Jon Rauch from the 15-day disabled list Tuesday. The Expos initially though Ohka might miss the rest of the season with a broken right forearm after he was hit by a line drive June 10.

Expos reinstate Ohka, Rauch from disabled list


Staff at the BBC are bracing themselves for a  quot;very tough year quot; amid fears that as many as 6,000 jobs will be lost in the attempt to show the government that the corporation is taking necessary  quot;self-help quot; measures to earn a new charter.

6,000 jobs may go in quest for new charter


Google Inc. has bought digital map maker Keyhole Corp., extending the search engine leader's bid to fend off rivals with a toolbox that can catalog almost anything in the world.

Google Buys Digital Mapping Company


Retail sales dropped 0.3 percent in August, led by a decline in automotive purchases, after climbing 0.8 percent in July, the Commerce Department said.

Retail Sales Down in August


AP - Their pride has clearly been wounded. For a defensive line that makes its mission stopping the run, Ahman Green's 119 rushing yards definitely stung the Carolina Panthers.

Carolina Defensive Line Reeling After Loss (AP)


Six Palestinians died in four separate attacks by the Israeli military in Gaza on Saturday, according to Palestinian security and medical sources.

8 Palestinians die in Gaza violence


LAS VEGAS -- Terry Lanni, head of the MGM Mirage casino group, Wednesday said MotorCity Casino in Detroit would be sold and not the MGM Grand Detroit if the Federal Trade Commission approves the merger between MGM Mirage and Mandalay Resort Group.

MGM plans to keep its casino


AP - Vice President Dick Cheney and Sen. John Edwards, the vice presidential candidate, will meet Tuesday at Case Western Reserve University in Cleveland for their only debate before the Nov. 2 election.

Cheney, Edwards to Meet in Ohio Debate (AP)


Japanese stocks may rise after companies including Nintendo Co. and AOC Holdings Inc. raised their full-year earnings forecasts. Expectations of a strong Christmas sale season are

Japanese Stocks May Rise; Nintendo, AOC, JFE, NTT Seen Gaining


SAN ANTONIO -- Antonio Daniels scowled and every muscle in his body seemed steel-cable taut as he walked toward the Sonics #39; bench.

Gritty Sonics roll on


The controversial multi-million pound fund set up by key directors of MG Rover parent company Phoenix Venture Holdings was  quot;quite modest quot;, chairman John Towers has claimed.

Controversial fund  #39;quite modest #39; claims chairman


Reuters - Airgo Networks said on Monday the\Linksys unit of Cisco System Inc. will use its chips in\equipment for high-speed wireless networking, bolstering\support for the start-up chip maker's technology.

Airgo Says Linksys to Use Chips for Wireless Gear (Reuters)


WASHINGTON - John Kerry suggested Saturday night that Republicans may try to keep black voters from casting their ballots to help President Bush win in November.

Kerry Hints GOP May Suppress Black Votes


Democracy candidates picked up at least one more seat in parliament, according to exit polls.

Unprecedented turnout in Hong Kong vote


THE first detailed medical study of survivors of the Sudanese genocide suggests the death toll has been seriously underestimated and concludes the massive attacks in the Darfur region amount to a demographic catastrophe.

400 Darfur refugees dying every day


For about \$10 million, city officials believe they can turn all 135 square miles of Philadelphia into the world's largest wireless Internet hot spot.

Philadelphia looks to become one big hot spot


AFP - The Asian Development Bank (ADB) said it has approved two loans totalling 213 million dollars to improve the health sector in the Philippines.

ADB grants 200 million dollars for Philippines health sector (AFP)


Boeing Co, the world #39;s second-biggest maker of commercial aircraft, won a \$360 million order from Air China, the country #39;s biggest overseas carrier, for seven 737-700 jetliners used in flying medium-range routes.

Boeing Wins Air China #39;s Order for Seven 737 Planes (Update2)


HOUSTON -- Enron Corp. #39;s chief financial officer since a month after the energy company went bankrupt in December 2001 resigned effective Friday.

Enron CFO Raymond M. Bowen resigns


SAN FRANCISCO - California Attorney General Bill Lockyer said on Tuesday that he would sue electronic voting machine maker Diebold Inc.

California to sue e-voting firm


HEMPSTEAD, N.Y. - Quarterback Quincy Carter signed with the New York Jets on Tuesday, three weeks after his surprising release by Dallas...

New York Jets Sign Quincy Carter


called  quot;Black Friday quot; because retailers hope it will kick off hot seasonal sales that will put them in the black for the year -s alive and well in the Jupiter area.

Shoppers line up for  #39;Black Friday #39; sales


Reuters - Airbus has withdrawn its challenge to\a European Union antitrust ruling against Microsoft Corp. only\days after the aircraft maker's intervention became public, the\Wall Street Journal reported on Friday, citing unnamed sources.

Airbus Drops Microsoft Ruling Objections (Reuters)


MINNEAPOLIS Onterrio Smith of the Minnesota Vikings will miss his team #39;s next four games for a violation of the NFL substance abuse policy.

Sports: NFL tells Vikings #39; Smith to sit out four


ATHENS, Ga. Erik Ainge threw a pair of touchdown passes to lead Number 17 Tennessee to a 19-14 upset of third-ranked Georgia on Saturday.

No. 17 Tennessee 19, No. 3 Georgia 14


A new museum in Italy features exhibits that show the link between wine and the place it comes from.

Museum Puts Life, Truth and, It Hopes, Sales in a Wine


OJIYA, Japan -- Overturned cars, crumbled homes and shattered roads greeted rescue workers Sunday after Japan #39;s deadliest earthquake in almost a decade stunned residents used to bearing up through the nation #39;s frequent tremors.

Japanese sent scrambling as earthquakes inflict heavy toll


In eight thunderous explosions, Colombia blew up its remaining 6,800 stockpiled land mines, winning the praise of Jordan's visiting Queen Noor who said the move took courage given that the nation is still fighting an internal conflict.

Colombia Destroys Stockpiled Land Mines


The Irish biotechnology company Elan has officially denied speculation that it was in merger talks with US firm Biogen. The denial came after a query made to the Irish firm by the Irish Stock Exchange.

Official denial from Elan on takeover


Leaders of the nation #39;s largest flight attendants union, which represents workers at United Airlines and US Airways Group Inc.

Flight attendants threaten to strike


CHICAGO (Reuters) - WellPoint Health Networks Inc. <A HREF=

WellPoint Health Profit Up on Premiums


NEW YORK - Rock band U2 has cut a deal with Apple Computer to sell custom iPods promoting the band #39;s forthcoming album. Sources close to the group say the U2 edition of the popular digital music player will

Bono #39;s iPod


Ask the Pittsburgh Steelers about the New England Patriots #39; NFL record 21-game winning streak, and it #39;s likely they will turn the question around.

The streak? Steelers concerned more about own run than Patriots #39; <b>...</b>


FALLUJAH, Iraq (AFP) - Rebels battled for their lives in Fallujah as US troops closed in for the kill, while 10 people died in a Baghdad car bomb and two US helicopters were forced to land under a hail of bullets.

Rebels fight for life in Fallujah; car bomb rips through Bagdhad


Three judges are suspended Saturday for a mistake in scoring the men's gymnastics all-around final, but results are not be changed and American Paul Hamm keeps his gold medal.

Judges Suspended


Oil prices eased from new highs on Friday as dealers pocketed profits from a long record-breaking run after escalating violence in Iraq took US crude close to \$50 a barrel.

Oil Falls from Highs After Missing \$50


SIMILAR to the actors role, the art of supreme defending is all about timing. The maxim will not be lost on Jean-Alain Boumsong, who is already guaranteed to secure the vote of player of the year from virtually every Rangers supporter.

McLeish #39;s confidence tempered by Boumsong interest


Crude futures fell more than \$1 a barrel yesterday amid mild weather in the US Northeast on the first trading day of the new year.

Crude futures fall more than \$1


CACI International Inc. on Thursday said US domestic operations president L. Kenneth Johnson will retire from the company effective Nov. 1, and backed its previous earnings guidance, saying it is on course to meet operating goals.

CACI US Operations President to Retire


Gold prices in New York fell from a six-month high after US jobless claims dropped to the lowest in six weeks, spurring speculation that the dollar may gain, boosting the cost of precious metals for buyers holding euros.

Gold Falls From 6-Month High After US Jobless Claims Decline


AFP - A court in Zimbabwe found Briton Simon Mann guilty of attempting to illegally buy arms to stage a putsch in oil-rich Equatorial Guinea but acquitted 66 other defendants of involvement in the alleged coup.

Zimbabwe court says Mann guilty in 'coup plot' arms deal (AFP)


Google Browser May Become Reality\\There has been much fanfare in the Mozilla fan camps about the possibility of Google using Mozilla browser technology to produce a GBrowser - the Google Browser. Over the past two weeks, the news and speculation has escalated to the point where even Google itself is ...

Google Browser May Be Reality


Symbian Ltd., the London-based maker of the Symbian operating system used on high-end smart phones from a variety of manufacturers, says reports of malware may be premature.

Symbian Says Skulls May Not Be Malware


Organized gangs are increasingly using networks of zombie PCs to launch attempts to make money, according to VeriSign.

Report: Crooks behind more Net attacks


AP - Peyton Manning set yet another NFL passing record Sunday, finishing the season with a rating of 121.1, more than eight points better than Steve Young's previous mark.

Colts' Manning Sets NFL Passing Record (AP)


NTT DoCoMo, Japan's largest mobile operator, has developed a common software platform that can run on both the Linux and Symbian operating systems used in its 3G (third generation) mobile phones, the company said Thursday.

DoCoMo develops Linux, Symbian common software platform


AP - Organizers of the 2006 Winter Olympics insist the games are on track despite a  #36;242 million budget shortfall and a police investigation into possible fixing of construction contracts.

Organizers Say 2006 Olympics on Track (AP)


Ohio State senior tailback Lydell Ross will not play for the Buckeyes today in their homecoming game versus Indiana. Coach Jim Tressel would not comment Friday on Ross #39; suspension.

Ross out, and strip club manager says tailback passed stolen bills


Super Flu

Ducks Increase Odds for Asian


After ending New England #39;s 21-game winning streak last week, the Steelers have a shot at beating the league #39;s last undefeated team this season.

Game of the day; by the numbers


US demand for natural gas this winter is expected to increase 4.4 percent from last year, and prices should be higher even though inventories will be near record levels at the start of the heating season, a industry trade group said

More cold cash for gas heating


At least 14 people were killed and 19 were wounded when a car bomb went off in a Sunni area in the north of the city. The target of the attack is still not clear.

Up to 25 killed in two attacks in Baghdad


LAKSHMI Mittal, the billionaire steel magnate who was controversially aided by Tony Blair after donating 125,000 to the Labour party in 2001, is performing a double merger to create the world #39;s largest steelmaker by output.

Steel magnate Mittal gets 1.1bn merger bonus


Sidney Ponson pitched a two-hitter for his fourth career shutout, and Rafael Palmeiro hit one of the Baltimore Orioles #39; three homers yesterday in a 7-0 victory in New York over the suddenly punchless Yankees.

Yankee batters hit wall


GAZA (Reuters) - An Israeli helicopter fired a missile into  a Palestinian refugee camp in Gaza early on Saturday, killing  an elderly man and wounding at least three people, Palestinian  witnesses and medics said.

Israeli Missile Kills One in Gaza Camp -- Medics


Reuters - Treasuries prices turned lower in\choppy trade on Friday as speculators sold short-term notes\while a report on U.S. business investment contained enough\soft spots to support longer-dated debt.

Short-Term Treasuries Dumped (Reuters)


Two former MCI executives, Joyce Dorris and Paul Erickson, want to bring Internet phone service to mainstream America.

Keeping Internet Phone Service Simple


Kathmandu: India has a very important role to play in finding a long-term solution to the Maoist problem in Nepal, which has claimed over 10,000 lives since 1996, US Ambassador to Nepal James F. Moriarty has said.

India #39;s role vital to resolve Maoist problem: US envoy


Iran #39;s foreign minister said Saturday that Iran had every right to keep, for research purposes, some of the centrifuges that could be used to enrich uranium, an indication

Iran Reasserts Its Right to Enrich Uranium as Standoff Persists


Sony has confirmed that its PSP handheld console, due to go on sale in Japan on December 12, will cost only 19,800 yen (100), a lot cheaper than most analysts predicted.

Sony sets price for PSP


Only in the game #39;s final seconds was Bayern Munich able to secure its place at the top of the Bundesliga table. The Bavarians tied 2-2 at home against Stuttgart in the last game before the winter break.

Winter Break Starts With Bayern Ahead


Millions of video-game enthusiasts will soon see if Master Chief can successfully defend Earth from an invasion of Covenant forces.

Xbox builds on  #39;Halo #39; effect


Tens of thousands of supporters of opposition presidential candidate Viktor Yushchencko have rallied in the streets of the Ukrainian capital, Kiev, to demand next week #39;s elections are free and fair.

OPPOSITION RALLY IN UKRAINE


London, England (Sports Network) - Arsenal defender Sol Campbell will be out another three weeks as he is struggling to recover from an Achilles injury.

Campbell needs three more weeks


Comic book giant Marvel has filed a copyright infringement lawsuit against Korean publisher NCsoft, alleging that players in the firm #39;s MMORPG City of Heroes are creating characters in the likeness of Marvel heroes.

Marvel sues NCsoft over City of Heroes


Red Sox first baseman Kevin Millar , making an appearance at Modell's Sporting Goods at the Westgate Mall yesterday, said he told general manager Theo Epstein there isn't room for both him and Doug Mientkiewicz at first base.

Millar will not play second fiddle at first


After months of missteps and fumbling with initial public offering via an unusual Web-based auction that bucked Wall Street conventions, the troubled pregnancy of Google, the search engine company, will finally be complete.

It #39;s A Go For Google


Severn Trent, the UK environmental services group, said it intended to raise its interim dividend by 2.5 per cent to 18.21p despite a 10 per cent fall in pre-tax profits to 126.2m (\$239m) for the six months to 30 September.

Severn Trent lifts dividend as US business suffers


Shares of Google are on the way up again on their second day of trading.

Google shines on second day


Credit reporting agencies reported a rush of traffic and a few glitches as a new federal law requiring free access to credit data went into effect.

Consumers snap up credit reports online


Socceroo Harry Kewell has played down any injury concerns that arose from Tuesday night #39;s Confederations Cup play-off victory over the Solomon Islands and declared himself fit to take his place in the Liverpool line-up this weekend.

Kewell fit for Liverpool


AP - Russell Branyan and Keith Ginter each hit three-run homers, rookie Ben Hendrickson earned his first major league victory, and the Milwaukee Brewers sent the Cincinnati Reds to their fifth straight loss with a 7-3 victory Saturday night.

Brewers Best Slumping Reds, 7-3 (AP)


PORT BLAIR, India (Reuters) - Tempers flared over the  sluggish pace of aid efforts in India's remote and restricted  Andamans and Nicobars on Sunday as hundreds of bodies lay  scattered around the islands a week after the tsunami struck.

Anger Rises as Does Toll in Remote Indian Islands


About 5,000 people marched Monday from Wellington #39;s Civic Square to Parliament to protest against proposed legislation giving gay relationships legal recognition.

NZ protesters march against legal recognition of gay relationships


LONDON (Reuters) - The dollar gained ground on Wednesday,  as investors took profits on other major currencies on signs  that currency strength may prompt some central banks to scale  back interest rate tightening.

Dollar Rises, Investors Focus on Rates


The NHL lockout forced the cancellation of this season #39;s All-Star game, scheduled to be held in Atlanta in February. No regular-season games have been played since the season was scheduled to begin on Oct.

NHL Cancels All-Star Weekend


AFP - The general election in Kosovo this weekend will mark another step on the path of democratic reform, but five years after NATO and the UN took control of the province, the ramshackle economy remains a major threat to stability, analysts say.

Kosovo's ramshackle economy threatens fragile stability (AFP)


The moratorium on a federal program that provides grants for high-speed Internet and telephone service began two months ago, with no notice.

Internet Grants to Schools Halted as the F.C.C. Tightens the Rules


BETHESDA, Md. The loss of an Intelsat satellite knocked out Internet access for many customers of Starband, a McLean-based provider of online access via satellite.

Loss of Intelsat satellite could threaten sale


Scotland have added Portsmouth midfielder Richard Hughes to their squad for the World Cup qualifiers against Norway and Moldova. Tuesday #39;s move comes a day after coach Berti Vogts said

Hughes gets call-up for Scotland


Energy giant Shell is to sell its stake in the pipeline unit of Dutch gas firm Gasunie to the Dutch government. Both Shell and ExxonMobil are selling their stakes, with the Dutch government paying 2.78bn euros (\$3.

Shell in Dutch gas grid disposal


Reliever Cliff Politte agreed Monday to a one-year, \$1 million extension through next year with the Chicago White Sox. The club will have an option for 2006 at a salary of \$1.

White Sox reach agreement with Politte


AP - With all the grumbling over Windows and its many shortcomings, why would anyone want Microsoft's computer operating system to run their cell phone?

REVIEW: Windows Cell Phone Sleek, Stacked (AP)


Kim Clijsters has stunned the tennis world by announcing her break up with Lleyton Hewitt just four months before their scheduled wedding.

#39;Aussie Kim #39; calls time on Hewitt love match


Socialists want to bolster Spain's church-state barrier.

Secular drive challenges Spain's Catholic identity


PATTANI, Thailand (Reuters) - At least 78 people died in a  crush in southern Thailand Monday after police and troops fired  shots to disperse a crowd of Muslim demonstrators outside a  police station, a justice ministry official said on Tuesday.

At Least 84 Killed in S. Thailand Monday


SAO PAULO, Brazil -- The mother of Brazilian star Robinho has been kidnapped at gunpoint as the 20-year-old Santos winger, dubbed the  quot;new Pele quot;, appeared on the brink of a transfer to Real Madrid.

Mother of  #39;new Pele #39; is kidnapped


AP - After defiantly warding off rival Oracle Corp.'s  #36;7.7 billion hostile takeover for 15 months, business software maker PeopleSoft Inc. finds itself backed into a corner, with its best chances for escape tied to forces beyond its control.

PeopleSoft in a Corner After Decision (AP)


Captain Stephen Fleming closed in on a double-century as New Zealand passed the 400 mark on day two of the second Test against Bangladesh.

Fleming nears double ton


Mel Stottlemyre won #39;t return as pitching coach of the Yankees, The New York Times reported Wednesday. Stottlemyre has been the pitching coach since manager Joe Torre was hired before the

Report: Stottlemyre won #39;t return


After his introductory news conference with the Mets, Pedro Martnez appeared as vulnerable as any man who had just bought a house or entered a marriage.

After Looking Up to Sky, a Star Is Transplanted