Parliament passes no-confidence bid

NAIROBI, Kenya -- Somalia's parliament passed a motion of no-confidence against the new prime minister and his Cabinet yesterday, an official said, effectively sacking a government that had been expected to restore order to the country after 13 years of anarchy and war. The deputy speaker of the 275-member transitional parliament, Dalhar Omar, said 153 members voted against Prime Minister ...


Rapidly expanding Vietnam Airlines ready to take on America

HANOI : Yesterday Vietnam, today Asia, tomorrow the United States: Vietnam Airlines has expanded to the point where it is even eyeing the huge American market, a move which would have been unthinkable not long ago.


Big Green slip by Wildcats

Mike Lang had a career-high 25 points, including the go-ahead jumper with 1:16 remaining, to lift Dartmouth to a 69-67 nonconference victory over New Hampshire last night in Hanover, N.H. Lang's basket broke a 66-66 tie. Dartmouth (3-3) then fouled the Wildcats' Jermaine Anderson, who hit one of two free throws to make it 68-67 with 54 seconds left. A ...


Klitschko wins in 8th

LAS VEGAS -- If Vitali Klitschko made one thing clear last night about the heavyweight division, it's how finished Mike Tyson really is.


Klitschko too good for Williams

Vitali Klitschko proved too strong for Danny Williams as he retained his world championship crown in Las Vegas last night. Williams vowed to continue boxing despite being outclassed by Klitschko.


Miller Wins Giant Slalom After Maier Falters

Bode Miller won his fifth victory of the World Cup season in a giant slalom on Sunday after the three men ahead of him all faltered.


Red Sox aim for jugular

While the Yankees were quietly celebrating their free agency victory over the Red Sox, snaring New Englander Carl Pavano with a four-year deal in excess of \$38 million, no one gloated too long.


Myanmar Releases Hundreds of Prisoners

Two prominent pro-democracy leaders were among hundreds of prisoners released from a Myanmar prison on Sunday as part of a broad amnesty granted by the country #39;s ruling junta, the prisoners and family members said.


Delaney keen to  quot;put things right quot;

Mark Delaney wants Aston Villa to  quot;stamp their authority on midlands football quot; by finally overcoming Birmingham in Sunday #39;s derby.


Technology ; STT, Telekom Malaysia buy 48 pct of Idea

Singapore government-owned STT and TM International, the international investment arm of Telekom Malaysia, said in a statement on Saturday they had signed  quot;definitive agreements quot; to buy the entire stake of Cingular Wireless in Idea.


Everton beats Liverpool 1-0 in Merseyside Derby

Lee Carsley scored the winner in the 68th minute, giving Everton a 1-0 victory Saturday over Liverpool in the 200th Merseyside Derby.


Feyenoord cuts PSV #39;s lead to three

Feyenoord cut PSV Eindhoven #39;s lead atop the Dutch Premiership to three points on Sunday as Bart Goor equalized two minutes into injury time for a 3-3 draw with the leaders.


Poutiainen Wins But Plays Down Cup Hopes

Finland #39;s Tanja Poutiainen snatched back the women #39;s World Cup lead with her third victory of the Alpine ski season on Sunday but played down her chances of winning the overall title.


George sits for first time in career

Irving, TX (Sports Network) - Dallas Cowboys running back Eddie George was inactive for Sunday #39;s game against New Orleans as a healthy scratch and missed a game for the first time in his NFL career.


Sony takes on Nintendo in portable game console market with PSP (AFP)

AFP - Sony launched a frontal assault on Nintendo's domination of the portable game console market by kicking off Japan sales of its new PlayStation Portable (PSP), drawing huge lines in Tokyo.


Romanians vote for a new President

BUCHAREST: Romanians voted for a new president on Sunday with fighting corruption and joining the EU the main themes in a run-off round pitting Prime Minister Adrian Nastase against Bucharest Mayor Traian Basescu.


Magnificent Manning Sets Another Record

HOUSTON (Sports Network) - Indianapolis Colts quarterback  Peyton Manning threw two touchdown passes in the first quarter  of Sunday's game against the Houston Texans at Reliant Stadium  to set an NFL record for most consecutive games with multiple  TD throws.


Four Israeli soldiers killed, Barghuti pulls out of presidential <b>...</b>

RAFAH, Gaza Strip (AFP) - Four Israeli soldiers were killed when Palestinian militants blew up a tunnel under an army post in Gaza, as jailed intifada leader Marwan Barghuti pulled out of the Palestinian elections.


New Report Links Reputed Kingpin to Murder

Fifteen years ago, American journalist Todd Smith was brutally beaten and executed after he ventured into Peru's jungle to investigate links between Shining Path guerrillas and the cocaine trade.


No. 21 Purdue Beats W. Michigan, 74-42 (AP)

AP - Erin Lawless scored a career-high 26 points and grabbed seven rebounds and No. 21 Purdue beat Western Michigan 74-42 on Sunday.


Palestinians do not need another tyrant

YASSER Arafat is dead. A so-called moderate is now chairman of the Palestine Liberation Organization. Elections to choose a Palestinian Authority president are scheduled in the West Bank and Gaza for early January.


Orioles Target Sexson

Free agent first baseman Richie Sexson appears to be at the top of the Orioles' wish list after a meeting at the team's suite on Saturday.


Disney takes sides in battle for next generation DVD

Hollywood movie powerhouse Walt Disney has taken sides with Japans Sony Corp in a bitter battle between studios to define a technical standard for next generation DVDs, it said.


Iran to cease negotiations with EU in case of dead end

A top Iranian official said Sunday that Iran would withdraw from the negotiations with the European Union (EU) if the upcoming talks in Brussels turned into a dead-end, the official IRNA news agency reported.


Australia Babcock  amp; Brown To Pursue Listed Investment Co

SYDNEY (Dow Jones)--Babcock  amp; Brown Ltd. (BNB.AU) said Monday it plans to raise as much as A\$1 billion for an externally managed investment company to target long-term investments.


Airborne Cell-Phone Ban Likely to Remain for Now (Reuters)

Reuters - Hopes -- and worries -- that U.S.\regulators will soon end the ban on using wireless phones\during U.S. commercial flights are likely at least a year or\two early, government officials and analysts say.


NASA Chief Applies for Job at LSU (AP)

AP - NASA Administrator Sean O'Keefe will resign this week, a government official said Sunday, and a spokesman for Louisiana State University said O'Keefe is a leading candidate to become a chancellor there.


Sony #39;s game war advances to next level

Rival Sony began its worldwide assault yesterday by launching a new handheld console, PlayStation Portable, in game-crazy Japan. Sony aims to seek and destroy GameBoy and its maker Nintendo #39;s \$5billion hold


US mounts fresh attack on Taliban

The US-led militarycoalition in Afghanistan has beguna big offensive against militants loyal to the ousted Taliban regime in an attempt to quash any attempt to disrupt parliamentary elections next spring.


Important Rules for Phone Market Face F.C.C. Vote

Next week, the FCC will likely change the rules on unbundled networks largely in ways favorable to the Regional bells.


I.B.M. Sought a China Partnership, Not Just a Sale

Inside I.B.M., the issue of whether to stay in the personal computer business has been debated for a decade. The issue was put to rest last week.


Diamondbacks, Clayton Reach Agreement (AP)

AP - Royce Clayton and the Arizona Diamondbacks reached a preliminary agreement Sunday on a  #36;1.3 million, one-year contract.


Krzyzewski Wins No. 700

Shelden Williams collects 18 points and 15 rebounds to give Duke an 82-54 triumph over Toledo and Coach Mike Krzyzewski his 700th career win on Sunday.


Arsenal only manage draw

LONDON - Arsenal manager Arsene Wenger has praised Thierry Henry #39;s speed of thought after the striker stroked home a quick free-kick that helped champions Arsenal to a 2-2 draw against Premiership leaders Chelsea at Highbury last night.


Bank of England Says Dollar Decline Increases Risk to Banks

The possibility of a further slide in the dollar and a decline in demand for US assets has become one of the potential risks to financial stability, the Bank of England said in its semi-annual Financial Stability Review.


The Kid Stays in His Home, Dressed in PJ's, With a Live Mike

Robert Evans, the fabled Hollywood producer and man about town, will be enjoying his latest gig, as a satellite radio talk-show host, from the comfort of his home.


SCHUMER  #39;RETURNS #39; FIRE AT RETAILERS

Sen. Charles Schumer yesterday criticized retail grinches who are stealing Christmas by blacklisting customers who return too many gifts.


Report: Construction boom ahead

A report released on Monday by the Washington-based Brookings Institution says that half of the residential, commercial and industrial buildings that will be up in 2030 in the largest metropolitan areas don #39;t yet exist.


Seahawks Take NFC West

The Seahawks deny a Falcons' two-point try for the tie with no time remaining to wrap up the NFC West, 28-26, on Sunday.


Poes condition worsens--doctors

(2nd UPDATE) MOVIE actor Fernando Poe Jr. #39;s condition has deteriorated, according to a bulletin his doctors issued on Monday. He is still in a coma and has multiple organ system involvement.


Homeless families total 100,000

The figure for homeless families in England has topped 100,000 for the first time.


After layoff, Poole eases back into action

FOXBOROUGH -- Tyrone Poole said he probably could count the number of plays he got in on with one hand, but after missing seven games because of knee surgery, the Patriots' starting cornerback was just pleased to get back on the field.


O's Still Fishing

With big fish like Richie Sexson still looking for work and prizes like Tim Hudson being dangled in the market, the Orioles remain hopeful that they can bag a big catch.


Update 1: London Exchange Rejects German Proposal

The London Stock Exchange PLC has received and rejected a bid proposal from Germany #39;s main stock exchange, Deutsche Boerse AG , the exchanges said Monday.


Former Philippine presidential candidate in deteriorating <b>...</b>

The former presidential candidate and movie actor Fernando Poe Jr. #39;s condition has deteriorated after he suffered a stroke, doctors said Monday.


Shah Rukh Khan apologises to Buddhist monks

COLOMBO: Bollywood superstar Shah Rukh Khan has apologised to Sri Lanka #39;s protesting Buddhist monks for the timing of his mega concert here, which coincides with the death anniversary of a popular priest, but said the show will go on.


Chen Under Pressure to Work with Taiwan Opposition

TAIPEI (Reuters) - Taiwan President Chen Shui-bian is under  pressure to find ways to work with an opposition-dominated  parliament after his party suffered a surprise setback in  weekend legislative elections.


Econ Edge: The Economic Week

President Bush #39;s White House conference on the economy is sure to attract some of the nation #39;s political and economic superstars to Washington this week.


Indonesian diplomats asked to help improve RI #39;s bad image

JAKARTA (Antara): President Susilo Yudhoyono asked Indonesian diplomats on Monday to help the government improve Indonesia #39;s bad image.


China wary at Taiwan poll result

China's media responds cautiously to the election setback suffered by Taiwan's pro-independence DPP.


Fiat and General Motors to square up in Switzerland

MILAN (AFP) - Sharp differences between the Fiat Group and General Motors over an option by Fiat to sell its loss-making auto operations to GM will be the focus of a meeting between the two companies in Zurich on Tuesday.


Oracle to Acquire PeopleSoft

Oracle Corp. announced today it has signed a definitive merger agreement to acquire PeopleSoft Inc. for approximately \$10.3 billion. -AP


Poll: I was right to let Henry score

Referee Graham Poll has insisted that he acted within the laws of the game when he allowed Thierry Henry to take a quick free-kick yesterday.


LSE says no to German exchange for a second time

LONDON (CBS.MW) - Failed efforts to merge stock exchanges have littered the trading landscape in recent years, but the German stock exchange isn #39;t giving up on creating a pan-European and British market for trading stocks and derivatives.


Rams Beat Jets in OT, Clinch Playoff Berth (AP)

AP - The St. Louis Rams won a finale that, in the end, they needed much more than the New York Jets. Marc Bulger threw for 450 yards and three touchdowns and Jeff Wilkins hit a 31-yard field goal with 3:03 left in overtime Sunday to give the Rams a 32-29 win over the New York Jets, clinching their fourth playoff berth in five seasons under coach Mike Martz.


NBA Wrap: O'Neal and Wade Help Heat Beat Raptors

NEW YORK (Reuters) - Shaquille O'Neal and Dwyane Wade each  scored 20 points and added nine rebounds as the Miami Heat  notched their fourth consecutive win dumping the struggling  Toronto Raptors 106-98 Sunday.


Paul Tellier leaving immediately as chief executive of Bombardier

MONTREAL (CP) - Paul Tellier has disembarked as president and chief executive officer of Bombardier Inc. The bombshell announcement Monday morning came as the Montreal-headquartered multinational transportation


Two Aid Workers Killed in Attack on Darfur Aid Convoy

KHARTOUM (Reuters) - Two employees of a British charity  were killed in Sudan's troubled Darfur region on Sunday when  their convoy came under fire, the aid agency said on Monday.


Bangladesh boss slams detractors

Bangladesh's coach says they still deserve Test status after their 30th defeat, to India.


Week's delay for Delta launcher

Boeing's new heavy-lift Delta 4 rocket must wait a further week before making its maiden flight.


DaimlerChrysler, GM to team up on hybrid engines

General Motors and DaimlerChrysler say they #39;re teaming up to develop hybrid technology for use in their vehicles. The two giant automakers say they have signed a memorandum of understanding.


Software revenue pushes up Oracle #39;s Q2 earnings

Oracle Corp. reported second-quarter 2005 earnings that beat analyst expectations on Monday, thanks to new software revenue and continued gains from license updates and product support.


Oracle strikes friendly deal for PeopleSoft at US\$26.50 a share

After 18 months of conflict, a friendly merger deal has been struck between Oracle Corp. and PeopleSoft Inc. after the former raised its  quot;final quot; offer by 10 per cent.


Notre Dame situation has columnist shaking his head

Puzzling is the best word to describe Notre Dames attempt to find a new head football coach after dumping Tyrone Willingham unceremoniously two weeks ago.


Saddam #39;s jailed top aides hold food protest

Eight of 11 detainees briefly refuse food over prisoner rights including family visits, access to media. BAGHDAD - The US army said eight of toppled Iraqi leader Saddam Hussein #39;s jailed lieutenants had briefly


Spanish Leader Denies Gain From Bombings (AP)

AP - Spain's prime minister, heckled Monday by opposition lawmakers, angrily denied his Socialist party instigated anti-government rallies on the eve of a general election to reap political benefit from the Madrid train bombings.


HP shifts focus for HP-UX

Hewlett-Packard has dropped plans to beef up its HP-UX operating system with new high availability and clustering technology it obtained in its 2002 acquisition of Compaq. The company will instead shift its development focus to new areas, as it attempts to convince customers that there is still life in its venerable Unix operating system.


NASA Chief Is Taking Off

Named to head NASA by President Bush in December 2001, Sean O #39;Keefe acknowledged he had no experience in astronautics. His management style aimed at practical economy.


Israel to Renovate Crumbling Entrance to Disputed Holy Site in Jerusalem's Old City (AP)

AP - Israel will renovate the crumbling entrance to a disputed holy site in Jerusalem's Old City that is revered by Jews and Muslims, officials said Monday.


Bombardier shares slump as CEO leaves

Bombardier, the troubled Canadian maker of aircraft and trains, saw its shares fall by around 20 per cent in Toronto, after it announced that Paul Tellier was stepping down early as president and chief executive officer.


US retail sales climb 0.1 percent in November

WASHINGTON : US retail sales rose 0.1 percent in November, a better than expected start to the crucial holiday shopping season, seasonally adjusted government figures showed.


UK #39;s Jaguar Workers Vote Against Strike

Workers at Ford Motor Co. #39;s luxury British car unit, Jaguar, voted against a strike over plans to cut jobs and scale back production, unions said on Monday.


Pakistan denies report of CIA bases in Pakistan for Osama hunt

ISLAMABAD, Pakistan Are there secret CIA bases in Pakistan to hunt for Osama bin Laden? Pakistan says no. It is denying a New York Times report, which says the spy agency has concluded bin Laden is being sheltered


Congo Army Factions Clash in East - Army Officer

Army reinforcements sent to bolster the Democratic Republic of Congo #39;s fragile border region with Rwanda have clashed with former rebel units within the army, a local military commander said on Sunday.


Poll cost us victory - Cech

Referee Graham Poll came under renewed fire today as goalkeeper Petr Cech blamed him for costing Chelsea victory at Highbury by allegedly reneging on a promise to blow his whistle before Thierry Henrys free-kick.


Mazu scores VC lifeblood from Symantec, others

Mazu Networks, the Cambridge, Massachusetts, network intrusion prevention system (IPS) technology company, has secured another round of venture capital funding, including a stake from security software giant Symantec.


Turkey cautiously optimistic of EU bid ahead of crunch summit

ANKARA, Dec 13 (AFP) - Turkey was cautiously optimistic Monday that it would obtain a favorable result from this week #39;s crunch summit of European Union leaders who will decide on Ankara #39;s membership bid, but warned the 25-nation bloc not to cross Ankara #39;s


Moves toward moderation in Mideast

One month after Yasser Arafat #39;s death, realignments on both sides of the Palestinian-Israeli divide are raising fragile hopes for a mutual retreat from four years of fighting.


Do-not-call bill could be introduced today

The federal government hopes to introduce legislation today to establish a do-not-call registry for consumers who want to stop endless telemarketing pitches.


GM, Daimler Go Green

Oil prices have fallen in recent weeks from record highs, relieving the anxieties of consumers and economists alike. However, OPEC recently signaled that it #39;s not ready for the price of black


Sun Unveils Next Generation Client Technology

SANTA CLARA, Calif., Dec. 13 /PRNewswire-FirstCall/ -- Sun Microsystems, Inc. (NASDAQ:SUNW) today unveiled its next generation Sun Ray(TM) Server Software 3.0 an interoperable, platform that enables instant


Poll: I was right to let Henry #39;s Arsenal goal stand

Ref Graham Poll insists he didn #39;t get it wrong when allowing Arsenal #39;s Thierry Henry to take his free-kick early against Chelsea yesterday.


Travel Column: Australia Through Aboriginal Eyes

This week's TravelWatch column profiles Anangu Tours, an Aborigine-owned tour company in Australia's Red Center.


GM, Daimler Go Green

Team-up will help the companies compete and fill gaps in both firms' portfolios.


At Least 10 Iraqis Killed in Insurgent Attack

Officials in Iraq say at least 10 Iraqis have been killed and several others wounded in separate insurgent attacks across the country.


UnitedHealthcare pays \$3.5M to settle Medicare fraud claim

UnitedHealthcare Insurance Co., a branch of UnitedHealth Group, will pay \$3.5 million to settle charges that it defrauded the Medicare program, the US Department of Justice announced Monday.


GM, DaimlerChrysler plan hybrid cars

SOUTHFIELD, MICHIGAN: General Motors Corp and DaimlerChrysler AG will jointly develop a petroleum-electric power system to catch up with Toyota Motor Corp and Honda Motor Co in so-called hybrid vehicles that save fuel and cut tailpipe emissions.


North Korea to review its role in nuclear talks

SEOUL North Korea is seriously reconsidering its role in talks on its nuclear programs because of what it sees as a concerted campaign to topple the government in Pyongyang, the North Korean Foreign Ministry said Monday.


Lockheed to Launch Rocket; Boeing Gets New Date (Reuters)

Reuters - Lockheed Martin Corp. on Monday\announced that it will launch its Atlas V rocket on Dec. 17 as\planned, while Boeing Co. waited to reschedule a launch of its\Delta IV heavy-lift rocket that it was forced to abandon on\Sunday.


Bengals' Palmer Questionable for Sunday

CINCINNATI (Sports Network) - Cincinnati Bengals  quarterback Carson Palmer is questionable for Sunday's game  against Buffalo after an MRI exam Monday revealed no serious  damage to his left knee.


Intuit gets deeper into IT, revamps Quicken

The software maker adds a network management application. It also updates its Quicken personal-finance software.


Navy awash in new IBM supercomputers

Defense Dept. to buy second supercomputer for Naval Oceanographic Office.


Atheros reaches into electronics devices

Chipmaker announces new chipset and reference design for consumer devices and PCs.


Skybox updates risk management wares

BOSTON - New software from Skybox Security will help companies monitor their networks and comply with U.S. federal and state data security regulations, and even help them prepare networks for dangerous new Internet worms, according to the company.


NASA administrator to resign

WASHINGTON: Sean O #39;Keefe, is resigning after three tumultuous years heading the US space program, the White House said Monday.


Microsoft Unveils Software to Find Files (AP)

AP - Microsoft Corp. on Monday joined the battle for supremacy in so-called desktop search, introducing software for quickly locating files on personal computers that challenges Google's two-month-old rival product.


McCain Optimistic About Steroid Test Deal (AP)

AP - Sen. John McCain is "guardedly optimistic" that major league baseball and its players could reach an agreement on tougher testing for steroids.


Pinochet is ordered to stand trial for murder

Augusto Pinochet, the former Chilean dictator, was ordered under house arrest yesterday, charged with kidnapping and murder dating back to his 17-year rule.


Report Says N.H.L. Will Reject Proposal

The N.H.L. appears poised to reject a proposal made by the players union, which included a 24 percent reduction in pay and other concessions but not a hard salary cap.


Woman drops sexual assault suit vs. Colorado

One of the three women suing the University of Colorado for what they said was the school #39;s failure to protect them against sexual assault by football players has dropped her federal lawsuit.


Car Bomb Kills 11 Near Green Zone

A car bomb exploded in a line of vehicles waiting to enter the Green Zone early Monday, killing at least 11 Iraqis at an


Pedro picks Mets, Lee dealt to Brewers

Pedro Martinez picked the New York Mets over the Boston Red Sox, and the Chicago White Sox dealt Carlos Lee to Milwaukee for Scott Podsednik and a reliever on Monday as baseball #39;s annual winter meetings finished with many top stars still searching for


China move on textile exports gets cautious response

The US and the European Union responded cautiously yesterday to China #39;s surprise undertaking to impose duties on some textile exports, a step it said was designed to ensure a  quot;smooth


Red Sox say goodbye to Pedro Martinez

Pedro Martinez closed in on a four-year deal with the New York Mets, and the Boston Red Sox resigned themselves Monday to losing the three-time Cy Young Award winner.


Afghanistan Official Bashardost Resigns (AP)

AP - An Afghan Cabinet minister resigned Monday after President Hamid Karzai rejected his drive to shut down relief groups he accused of wasting money on expensive cars and houses.


Bush Selects E.P.A. Head to Be Secretary of Health

With the selection of Michael O. Leavitt, a former governor of Utah, the shape of the cabinet in President Bush's second term has become clear.


Family takes helm at Bombardier

Canada #39;s Bombardier family has taken back management control of the troubled transport equipment maker that bears its name following the sudden departure of Paul Tellier, chief executive.


Coleman Enjoys Fulhams Battling Display

Fulham manager Chris Coleman was delighted with his side #39;s second-half performance, which brought them a hard-earned point in a 1-1 draw against Manchester United at Craven Cottage.


Gray, Demon Deacons Swing Back In Action, Seek To Shoot Down <b>...</b>

Justin Gray has had an ample amount of time to get his shooting stroke ready. Gray and No. 6 Wake Forest are back in action after an eight-day break when they visit Temple on Monday.


Cavaliers activate Wagner again

CBC SPORTS ONLINE - The Cleveland Cavaliers activated Dajuan Wagner off the injured list Monday for a second time this season. Wagner missed five games with an inflamed right arch after earlier sitting out seven games because of a sprained right ankle.


Symantec Said to Be in Talks for Veritas

Symantec, which produces the Norton line of computer products, is in talks to acquire Veritas Software, a maker of data backup programs.


In U.S. Market, Cellphone Users Are Often All Talk

Users in the United States continue to think of a cellphone as a device for talking, not text messaging. Marketers, however, hope to change that as soon as possible.


Pakistan questions Indian arms shopping spree

ISLAMABAD: As the second round of expert-level talks on nuclear confidence building measures (CBMs) between Pakistan and India starts today, the government says that the recent statements coming from New Delhi are  quot;disturbing quot; and sound  quot;paranoid quot;.


Yahoo! Hires Chief Data Officer

In a move that has implications for ad targeting and reporting, Yahoo! has hired Usama Fayyad, a co-founder of the company now known as Revenue Science, to the newly-created position of Chief Data Officer.


PeopleSoft gives in to Oracle, takes bid

PeopleSoft Inc. capitulated to Oracle Corp., accepting a sweetened \$10.3 billion takeover offer to end an 18-month battle that pitted PeopleSoft against its investors and led to the ouster of its chief executive.


US admits more Afghan jail deaths

The US army says more people than previously acknowledged have died in its custody in Afghanistan.


Firefox crosses 10m mark

US web browser developer Mozillas open-source browser Firefox has recorded over 10m downloads since it was launched in November.


Firefox Turns Up The Browser War Heat

Firefox, the Mozilla-based open-source browser has grown by more than a third over the past month, according to WebSideStory, an independent Web metrics firm.


He picked right time to start making shots

Insecurity is a great motivator. Facing increasing criticism about his shot selection and the prospect of losing his starting job because of the return of two-time All-Star Allan Houston, young


Suicide Car Bomber Hits Baghdad Checkpoint Again (Reuters)

Reuters - A suicide car bomber struck an entrance\to Baghdad's Green Zone government compound Tuesday, 24 hours\after an almost identical attack at the same checkpoint on the\first anniversary of Saddam Hussein's arrest.


Fashionably late

What do women want? Luciano Manganella, the owner of the trendy Boston women's boutique JasmineSola, has a pretty good idea. And now after 34 years in business, he's plotting a major expansion.


CEO quits at world's top maker of trains

Paul Tellier stepped down as president and chief executive of Bombardier Inc. yesterday, surprising investors and sending the train and plane maker's shares down as much as 26 percent to a 10-year low.


NASA chief Sean O #39;Keefe quits

Washington: NASA Administrator Sean O #39;Keefe has resigned, spending three turbulent years at the helm of the US space agency which saw the crash of Columbia space shuttle, a painful probe into the disaster and severe austerity measures.


Big merger could box Qwest in

Qwest Communications may not be immediately affected by a Sprint-Nextel merger, but its options could become more limited. At one time, Qwest and Sprint were viewed as possible merger partners.


ICANN Gives Preliminary OK to 2 Domains

NEW YORK Dec 13, 2004 - The Internet #39;s key oversight agency gave a preliminary nod Monday to new domain names targeting mobile services and the jobs market.


Take Two Torts and Call Me in the Morning

The friction that sometimes strains the patient-doctor relationship when lawyers seek medical care is at an all-time high.


US Supreme Court To Hear File-Sharing Case

WASHINGTON -- The US Supreme Court will take up one of the key arguments about the use of file-sharing services. The justices will consider whether peer-to-peer Internet file-sharing services can be held responsible


Sony and Samsung to Cross-License Patents

Sony Corp. and Samsung Electronics said on Tuesday they had agreed to share patents on basic technology to speed up product development and avoid adding to a growing number of cross-border patent disputes.


White Sox trade Lee to Brewers

The Chicago White Sox traded outfield slugger Carlos Lee to the Milwaukee Brewers for outfielder Scott Podsednik , reliever Luis Vizcaino , and a player to be named in a deal announced yesterday at baseball's winter meetings in Anaheim, Calif.


Vodafone Drops on Report It Supports Bid for Sprint (Update2)

Shares in Vodafone Group Plc, the world #39;s largest mobile-phone operator, dropped after The Wall Street Journal said the company is considering bidding with US partner Verizon Communications Inc.


Former coach hits out at Bob Woolmer

Javed Miandad has come out strongly against Bob Woolmer #39;s coaching methods and is extremely sceptical about Pakistan #39;s chances in the Test series against Australia.


Music file-sharing case heads to high court

eeding the pleas of the entertainment industry, the US Supreme Court has agreed to consider calling a halt to Internet file-sharing that allows millions of computer users to obtain free copies of movies and music.


Boycott Rethink After Ahern Apology

The DUP was last night reconsidering its boycott of talks with the Irish government after Taoiseach Bertie Ahern apologised to party leader Ian Paisley.


U.S. Army Deserter Welcomed in Japan (AP)

AP - Villagers on the remote Japanese isle of Sado have warmly welcomed U.S. Army deserter Charles Jenkins since he arrived with his Japanese wife and their two North Korea-born daughters a week ago, his wife said Tuesday.


World's Tallest Bridge Soars Above French Valley

A bridge officially designated the tallest in the world was inaugurated by President Jacques Chirac in southern France Tuesday.


McGrath identifies his targets

Perth - Australia #39;s premier paceman Glenn McGrath - renowned for his pre-Test plans to target specific batsmen - said on Tuesday that captain Inzamam-ul-Haq and one-day run machine Yousuf Youhana were the keys to Pakistan #39;s batting lineup.


Hanover Striker Mathis to Return to US

Hanover 96 striker Clint Mathis is to return to the United States after only a year in the Bundesliga, the German club said Tuesday.


Green Tosses 3 Touchdown Passes, Chiefs Down Titans

NEW YORK (Reuters) - Trent Green hit Eddie Kennison with a  nine-yard touchdown pass with 37 seconds left to give the  Kansas City Chiefs a wild 49-38 win over the Tennessee Titans  in Nashville Monday.


Manpower survey forecasts slow hiring in early 2005

Those planning to look for a job in the Kalamazoo area during the first quarter of 2005 might find the going slow. The pace of hiring among area employers is expected to be slow during the first quarter of


Toys Will Be Toys

Trust me, you don #39;t want to see desperate parents shopping over the holidays. I was at Circuit City (NYSE: CC) last week and saw a mother pleading with a sales clerk for a Nintendo DS portable video game system.


Iraq Trials of Hussein #39;s Aides May Start Next Week, Allawi Says

Iraq may begin war crimes trials for senior members of Saddam Hussein #39;s former regime as soon as next week, Iraqi Prime Minister Ayad Allawi said.


Trade Gap Swells More Than Expected

The US trade deficit widened nearly 9 percent in October to a record \$55.5 billion as sky-high oil prices helped propel imports into uncharted territory, the government said on Tuesday.


Orbitz's Michael Sands Is Named President (AP)

AP - Travel-reservations Web site Orbitz Inc. Tuesday said it named its former chief marketing officer, Michael Sands, as president.


Intel confirms dual-core desktop 'Smithfield'

But is it two Prescotts in one package or a single-die part?


Bond game fails to shake or stir

GoldenEye: Rogue Action fails to deliver on the promise of its name and struggles to generate the original's massive sense of fun.


Worldwide PC Market Seen Doubling by 2010

NEW YORK (Reuters) - The number of personal computers  worldwide is expected to double to about 1.3 billion by 2010,  driven by explosive growth in emerging markets such as China,  Russia and India, according to a report released on Tuesday by  Forrester Research Inc.


EA Signs Five-Year Exclusive NFL Deal

Electronic Arts announced an exclusive licensing relationships with the National Football League and PLAYERS INC to develop, publish and distribute interactive football games.


Egypt and Israel sign US trade accord 25 years after peace treaty (AFP)

AFP - In a partnership hailed as a major boost to often chilly ties, Egypt and Israel signed a first joint trade accord with the United States since their historic peace treaty 25 years ago.


Merck plans 5,100 job cuts by year-end

Merck  amp; Co. plans to cut its workforce by 5,100 jobs by the end of the year--about 700 more than originally planned. Whitehouse Station, NJ-based Merck said in materials filed with the Securities and Exchange


Sprint Center Of Attention For Nextel And Verizon Wireless

Sprint Corp. #39;s enterprise operation, including its nationwide fiber-optic network, suddenly is looking like a swan and not a lame duck, as Verizon Wireless assesses the possibility of making a bid for Sprint in the boiling cell-phone merger scene.


Fed Raises Interest Rate to 2.25 Percent (Reuters)

Reuters - The Federal Reserve raised U.S.\interest rates on Tuesday by a quarter-percentage point for the\fifth time this year and said it will keep gradually lifting\them from rock-bottom levels to forestall inflation.


Islamic Scholar, Visa Withheld, Gives Up U.S. Post

GENEVA (Reuters) - A prominent Swiss-based Islamic scholar  on Tuesday gave up plans to teach at a leading U.S. university  after waiting in vain for a visa and accused the Bush  administration of trying to silence him.


Sony, Samsung Swap Patents

Sony Corp. and Samsung Electronics Co. Ltd. said Tuesday that the two companies have signed a patent cross-licensing agreement, which excludes certain key technologies.


Dollar's Gains Cut as Fed Raises Rates

NEW YORK (Reuters) - The dollar's gains were clipped  on  Tuesday as the Federal Reserve raised interest rates for the  fifth time this year, as expected, but quashed hopes for more  aggressive rate tightening.


Five Times for the Fed

Plus, Intel's still straining, revenge of the nerds, and a \$13 billion Christmas present?


Toshiba to use perpendicular recording in new HDDs

Toshiba is close to commercializing a new data storage technology that could significantly increase the capacity of hard-disk drives, it said Tuesday.


Saddam #39;s aides set to go on trial

Trials of some of Saddam Hussein #39;s aides will begin next week, Iraqi interim Prime Minister Iyad Allawi said. Speaking to Iraq #39;s National Council, he did not name the lieutenants that would go on trial or say when Saddam himself would appear in court.


Fed lifts rates a further quarter point

By Andrew Balls in Washington and Jennifer Hughes in New York. The US Federal Reserve on Tuesday raised interest rates by a quarter point to 2.25 per cent and signalled there had been no change in its assessment of economic conditions.


Hollywood to sue server operators in bid to stymie online piracy

LOS ANGELES -- Hollywood movie studios on Tuesday sued scores of operators of US- and European-based computer servers that help relay digitized movie files across online file-sharing networks.


Oil price rise adds to airlines woes as losses continue

The global airline industry is forecast to have made net losses of \$4.8bn this year, as the rise in the oil price has overwhelmed efforts by carriers to cut costs.


Hollywood Sues Computer Server Operators (AP)

AP - Hollywood movie studios on Tuesday sued scores of operators of U.S.- and European-based computer servers that help relay digitized movie files across online file-sharing networks.


In Chile, pace of justice quickens

A judge has ruled that Gen. Augusto Pinochet stand trial for his alleged involvement in state-sponsored torture.


Memphis indefinitely suspends Sean Banks

Memphis forward Sean Banks was suspended indefinitely Tuesday for violating team rules. Coach John Calipari did not provide further information about the violation.


A Deal That's Creating Plenty of Buzz About the Mets

The prospect of Pedro Martnez going to Queens is potentially the best news in years for the Mets. They have now won a public relations battle with the Yankees.


Briefly: Israel, Egypt and US trade pact

Egypt, Israel and the United States have reached an agreement that allows Egyptian industry to sell products using Israeli parts duty free in America.


McLeish upset by Novo punishment

Rangers manager Alex McLeish has criticised the punishment handed out to Nacho Novo by the Scottish Football Association. Novo and Celtic striker Henri Camara were both given one-match bans


Samsung MMCmicro Cards

Samsung MMCmicro It seems that mobile phones will soon be getting yet another new memory storage format, joining a growing field of ever-smaller memory cards.


Hockey Labor Talks Broken Off

TORONTO -- National Hockey League labor talks came to a halt Tuesday after each side rejected the other #39;s proposal. The talks lasted more than three hours, with the league making a one-hour presentation on


Astronomers ready for comet-smashing mission

NASA and university astronomers are eagerly awaiting the launch of a space probe bound to collide with a comet and give researchers a glimpse inside the solar systems icy wanderers.


Dollar #39;s Fall Is a Wake Up Call #39; for Nations, IMF #39;s Rajan Says

The decline of the US dollar is a signal that policy makers need to do more to ensure the currency #39;s depreciation won #39;t hurt global growth, International Monetary Fund chief economist Raghuram Rajan said.


Racing: Jockey Club abandons inquiry into Fallon

Kieren Fallon can now look forward to a Christmas of giggling children, mince pies and roaring log fires following the announcement that the Jockey Club have abandoned their inquiry into


Fed Panel Lifts Rates and Says More Increases Are Probable

The Federal Reserve raised short-term interest rates on Tuesday for the fifth time this year and suggested that more rate increases are in order in the months ahead.


Knee surgery for Falcons #39; Duckett

CBC SPORTS ONLINE - Atlanta Falcons running back TJ Duckett is expected to undergo minor arthroscopic surgery on his left knee Tuesday, so will miss this Saturday #39;s contest versus Carolina.


Mexico Police Present Before Mob Killing (AP)

AP - An amateur video released Tuesday shows that Mexico City police were present late last month before a street mob beat three plainclothes federal agents and set two of them on fire, killing both men.


No. 13 Louisville Beats NC A T, 85-51

LOUISVILLE, Ky., (Sports Network) - Larry O'Bannon netted  25 points to lead No. 13 Louisville over North Carolina A T,  85-51, at Freedom Hall.


76ers rally from 18 down to stun Nuggets

Allen Iverson couldn #39;t resist when he saw the burgundy and yellow shirt Willie Green put on after the game.  quot;That #39;s an ugly shirt, Willie, quot; Iverson shouted over a crowd of reporters.


Afghan Forces Arrest 2 Taliban Leaders

KANDAHAR, Afghanistan, Dec 14 -- Afghan forces have captured two top figures of the deposed Taliban government, including the personal security chief of leader Mohammad Omar, provincial officials said Tuesday.


Mesic Set to Recapture Croat Presidency (Reuters)

Reuters - Croatia's liberal President Stjepan\Mesic looked set to win a second term in elections on Sunday,\exit polls released by state television showed.


Mindawn offers DRM-free music downloads (MacCentral)

MacCentral - Mindawn is a new online music download service that differs from Apple Computer Inc.'s iTunes Music Store and other services in a few ways: It's not only compatible with Macs and PCs but with Linux computers too, its music is available in a lossless format, and there are no Digital Rights Management (DRM) restrictions. Mindawn launched in September and is picking up steam, according to its founder.


NHL Players, Owners Reject Plans to End Lockout

TORONTO (Reuters) - Hopes of saving the National Hockey  League season all but vanished Tuesday when players and team  owners rejected proposals to end the labor dispute.


Google partners with libraries

Google #39;s plan to digitally scan books so that users can access them from its Internet search engine is being greeted with delight at the tiny library in my hometown of Half Moon Bay, Calif.


Business ; Fiat Talks Tough Ahead of Key GM Meeting

quot;There is a very good argument to say that the Italian car plants could benefit from the relocation of other GM businesses in Europe, quot; Marchionne was quoted as saying.


World #39;s tallest bridge opens in France

A bridge officially designated the tallest in the world was inaugurated by President Jacques Chirac in southern France on Tuesday - a stunning feat of engineering that will carry motorists at 270m above the valley of the river Tarn.


Mullah Omar and Bin Laden on the run as Afghan and American forces <b>...</b>

More than 18,000 US troops and innumerable Afghan forces are in the process of searching every inch of Afhganistan and Afghan-Pak border.


Poland to Cut One-Third of Its Troops in Iraq

Poland #39;s defense minister Jerzy Szmajdzinski has announced plans to cut his country #39;s forces in Iraq by almost one third next year.


King Pong Draws Fans

Spike TV's Video Game Awards Show attracts big-name celebrities and bands but gives the fans the votes.


Judge Rejects Md. Anti-Spam Statute

A Montgomery County judge has ruled that Maryland's anti-spam law is unconstitutional because it seeks to regulate business transactions beyond the state's borders.


Kidd #39;s lack of playing time hurting Nets

Having Jason Kidd available for roughly 20 minutes a night is costing the New Jersey Nets. The New York Knicks took advantage of Kidd #39;s rationed minutes to get back in the game early and then capitalized on


Kidnapped Turk Killed in Afghanistan -- Witness

A Turkish engineer abducted by a militant gang in eastern Afghanistan was found dead on Wednesday, a witness who saw the body being carried down from a mountainside told Reuters.


China succeeds in cooling economy, but 2005 likely to prove just as tough (AFP)

AFP - China can claim some success in the battle to cool its roaring economy in 2004 with a series of macro policies helping prevent another boom-bust cycle, but much remains to be done if Beijing is to avoid increasing wrangles with trade partners.


Fiat seeks pact in row with GM

Fiat and General Motors are to hold more talks to solve their differences over  the future of the Italian firm's loss-making auto group, Fiat says.


Dead Iraqi #39;s Family Wins Demand for UK Abuse Probe

In a test case over British troops #39; alleged abuse of Iraqi civilians, a London court on Tuesday backed demands for an independent inquiry into claims a Basra hotel worker was beaten to death by UK soldiers.


Call it one for the pages

Google #39;s project to archive millions of books from top libraries, experts said, is the first major step toward the company #39;s goal of indexing massive amounts of printed material, music and video.


USC right move for Majerus

especially since he was so anxious to simply return to the sidelines. Remember, Majerus didn #39;t exactly leave Utah on his terms in 2004.


MPAA widens piracy net

Hollywood studios launched legal attacks Tuesday on the computer server operators they claim are the technological middlemen making online film theft possible.


Abducted Turkish engineer killed in Afghanistan

The kidnapped Turkish engineer was found dead in Kunar province in east Afghanistan on Wednesday, one day after he was abducted by unknown gunmen, the Afghan Interior Ministry said.


Yukos seeks US bankruptcy refuge

Embattled Russian oil giant Yukos has filed for bankruptcy protection in a US court in an attempt to prevent the forced sale of its main production arm.


UPDATE: Air China Shares Up 8 On Hong Kong Debut

HONG KONG (Dow Jones)--Air China Ltd. #39;s (0753.HK) stock gained 8 on its debut on the Hong Kong stock exchange Wednesday, and analysts said there is scope for slight further


Globus inventors go commercial

The creators of Globus open source grid software have set up a software and services company, Univa, to capitalise on their work on grid computing.


Thomas still struggling

Time slips away in a hurry as Tim Thomas runs around looking to make something happen in short order. The slumping forward #39;s on a short leash at the moment and wound up watching most of last


No. 1 LSU overcomes stubborn host Minnesota

MINNEAPOLIS - Top-ranked teams aren #39;t solo shows, and star Seimone Augustus sure has plenty of help around her with the LSU Lady Tigers.


Lady Tigers run past Gophers

MINNEAPOLIS -- One is a 6-foot-1 National Player of the Year candidate, looking to lead her top-ranked team back to the Final Four.


NKorea warns Japan against economic sanctions

North Korea has warned Japan that it will treat economic sanctions as a  quot;declaration of war quot; and threatens to try to exclude Tokyo from six-party talks on Pyongyang #39;s nuclear arms programs.


City to ponder Anelka future

MANCHESTER, Dec 15 (SW) - Manchester City chairman John Wardle has not ruled out a winter break move of French in-form striker Nicolas Anelka.


49ERS NOTEBOOK Fumbling holiday-party plans

If you think you are having trouble with your holiday party, check out the 49ers. The 49ers planned to have theirs Friday at a hotel near where the team stays the night before games, but coaches and their


U.S. Defends Afghan Human Rights Record (AP)

AP - The U.S. military defended its human-rights record in Afghanistan on Wednesday, claiming that a May inspection by an American general found no evidence of abuse at the 22 detainee facilities in the country, while admitting that his still-unreleased report will not include any earlier incidents.


Blockbuster revamps its policy for late returns

NEW YORK -- Faced with growing competition in the home video market, Blockbuster addressed its No. 1 consumer complaint Tuesday, saying it will end late fees on rented videos and games in January.


Time warner in \$600m setttlement

Time Warner is to announce today that it will pay between \$500 and \$600 million to settle federal investigations into irregularities at America Online, according to reports in the American press.


Foxfire Browser Adoption Accelerating as IE Wains

Usage of Microsoft Internet Explorer continues to fall in the United States, dropping 1.09 percentage points to 91.80 percent of the browser market last month, more than triple the rate


Report: Amount of fine-particle pollution drops significantly

LOS ANGELES - Concentrations of one of the most dangerous air pollutants have declined in most of the country in the last five years, especially in Southern California and the Southeast, according to a report released by the US Environmental Protection


Armed Athens Bus Hijackers Release Five Hostages (Update2)

Hijackers who took as many as 26 people hostage on a commuter bus on the outskirts of Athens released five of the captives. Police are in negotiations to free the remaining hostages, a spokeswoman said.


Oracle chairman says can close gap with SAP - report

Oracle Corp can close the gap with SAP, the world #39;s biggest software company, after buying US rival PeopleSoft, Oracle #39;s Chairman Jeff Henley said in an interview published on Wednesday.


Hologram labels in Nokia batteries

New Delhi: To help customers identify original Nokia batteries from the counterfeit ones, Nokia has introduced hologram labels with authentication codes in all its new batteries.


Toshiba claims hard drive storage record

Toshiba has developed what it claims are the world #39;s first hard disk drives based on perpendicular recording, a technology that can boost data density on a single 1.8in hard-disk platter to 40GB.


Eck: A court would have cleared Novo

Rangers manager Alex McLeish claims Nacho Novo would have been vindicated had his case been dealt with as a civil hearing. The striker was banned for one game and had 12 penalty points added to his record


Nothing doing

Well, that didn #39;t go very well, did it? Everybody knew the NHL planned on turning down the NHLPA #39;s latest offer yesterday, but the hockey world still held its breath when the two adversaries met face to face


Turkey confirms death of engineer in Afghanistan

ANKARA, Dec 15 (AFP) - The Turkish ambassador in Afghanistan has confirmed the death of a Turkish engineer kidnapped Tuesday in Afghanistan #39;s eastern Kunar province, the Anatolia news agency reported Wednesday.


England may have lost initiative

I appreciated Michael Vaughan #39;s honesty when he said England were complacent after their seven-wicket defeat to South Africa A last week.


Nokia stamps out bad batteries

Helsinki - Nokia, the world #39;s largest handset maker plans to mark its original batteries with a hologram as part of the fight against unsafe, counterfeit mobile phone batteries - some of which have exploded in users #39; hands.


Madrid Bomb Victims Criticize 'Schoolyard Politics'

MADRID (Reuters) - Victims of the Madrid train bombings  issued a stinging rebuke to politicians for seeking to gain  from the tragedy that killed 191 people, injecting humility  into a previously raucous parliamentary investigation.


Sprint, Nextel to Combine

Sprint Corp. and Nextel Communications Inc. on Wednesday announced plans to merge, creating a more formidable rival to the two largest US mobile operators, and a large wireline communications company supporting


Apple Blocks Use of RealNetworks #39; Music on iPod Photo

Apple has updated software on its iPod Photo digital music player to prevent users from playing music bought from RealNetworks #39; online music store.


Valencia accept Angulo ban

Valencia say they do not plan to appeal against the seven-match ban given to midfielder Miguel Angel Angulo by UEFA for his behaviour during last week #39;s Champions League match against Werder Bremen.


Newcastle #39;s Boumsong bid rejected by Rangers

Newcastle United manager Graeme Souness has made an offer to Rangers for French international centre-back Jean-Alain Boumsong but the Scottish club have rejected his initial offer.


\$210M Fine In AOL Probe

WASHINGTON (CBS) America Online has agreed to pay a \$210 million fine to settle a Justice Department investigation of securities fraud, a department official tells CBS News.


Yukos files for US bankruptcy protection

Russian oil giant Yukos Wednesday filed for US bankruptcy protection in attempt to stop the forthcoming auction of its major asset Yuganskeneftegaz, accordingto the Interfax news agency.


Studios Attack BitTorrent

The Motion Picture Association of America is retargeting its legal battle against file swappers by launching attacks against the server operators behind the BitTorrent and eDonkey services.


Peacekeepers fire on troops at river-border

Bukavu/Nairobi - United Nations peacekeepers have fired on troops trying to enter the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) from Rwanda, the UN-funded radio station Radio Okapi reported on Wednesday.


Indonesia May Prosecute Newmont Mining (AP)

AP - Indonesia is proceeding with plans to prosecute U.S.-based Newmont Mining for allegedly polluting a bay in central Indonesia, accusing the company Wednesday of giving investigators incomplete information about its waste disposal method.


Sun Brews Java Tools Updates

The Java Studio Enterprise 7 platform, available now, offers a collaboration feature called Code-Aware that allows distributed teams of developers in different buildings and different continents work together on projects, according to Sun.


Google takes the competition to school

While rivals scramble to catch up on the desktop, Google plans to digitize famous libraries. Its official. Google is the most dangerous media company on the planet.


Mars is more Earth-like

SAN FRANCISCO: Pictures of Earth-like clouds were captured by Nasa #39;s Mars rover on Wednesday. Reports also indicate that there #39;s a rock that doesn #39;t look like anything scientists have ever seen.


Last minute name change for Nvidia #39;s new GeForce 6200 with <b>...</b>

PCI Express allows Nvidia to tap into system memory to save expensive on-board graphics memory and achieve high performance at the same time.


Bush Pledges Strong-Dollar Policy

President Bush meets with Italian Prime Minister Silvio Berlusconi in the Oval Office of the White House, Wednesday, Dec. 15, 2004, in Washington.


Weis Sues Doctors

Notre Dame head coach Charlie Weis files suit against the doctors who performed weight-loss surgery on him in 2002 that almost killed him.


Google Wins Trademark Victory Over GEICO

ALEXANDRIA, Va. (Reuters) - A federal judge on Wednesday  handed online search engine Google Inc. GOOG.O a victory in a  trademark infringement case on Wednesday, ruling that when  users searched for insurer GEICO, Google could display rivals  as well.


2004 Signals More Global Warming, Extreme Weather: UN (Reuters)

Reuters - Global warming is set to continue, and\bring with it an increase in extreme weather such as hurricanes\and droughts, scientists from the United Nations' World\Meteorological Organization warned on Wednesday.


'Nano-needle' operates on cell

Scientists have performed a delicate surgical operation on a single living cell, using a needle that is just a few billionths of a metre wide.


MicroStrategy Turnover Draws Analyst Scrutiny

MicroStrategy Inc. said yesterday that president and chief financial officer Eric F. Brown had resigned and that founder Michael J. Saylor would again hold the company's top three jobs, prompting some analysts to raise concerns about the company's stock.


Italian taken hostage in Iraq: report (AFP)

AFP - An Italian national working for a British non-governmental organisation has been taken hostage in Iraq, the Italian news agency ANSA reported, quoting Italian intelligence sources.


Montie Brewer appointed CEO of Air Canada

MONTREAL - Montie Brewer has been appointed president and CEO of Air Canada, the airline announced Wednesday. Robert Milton remains CEO of Air Canada #39;s parent company, ACE Aviation Holdings.


HP Shifting Last of Itanium Engineers

Hewlett-Packard Co. (HPQ.N: Quote, Profile, Research) and Intel Corp. (INTC.O: Quote, Profile, Research) on Wednesday ended their 10-year partnership to co-develop the Itanium chip


Gateway Updates 4Q, Year Guidance

Gateway Inc. on Wednesday raised fourth-quarter earnings expectations as the personal computer maker freed up cash by selling preferred stock and outsourcing its warranty service plans.


Veterans Pronger and McKenzie don #39;t think hockey will return until <b>...</b>

NHL veterans Chris Pronger and Jim McKenzie think this lockout is far worse than the one that wiped out half a season 10 years ago.


Memphis activates guard Williams

Memphis, TN (Sports Network) - The Memphis Grizzlies on Wednesday activated point guard Jason Williams from the injured list, while placing guard Antonio Burks on the IL.


Air China Main Board Debut Up 6 At HK\$3.15 -2-

HONG KONG (Dow Jones)--Shares of Air China Ltd. (0753.HK), the country #39;s largest airline, opened 6 higher at their debut Wednesday on the Hong Kong Stock Exchange #39;s main board.


R.I.P. Gary Webb -- Unembedded Reporter

The finest journalist ever to get fired for telling the truth is dead at age 49. The official cause of death on the death certificate will be suicide. But, as we shall see, he had much help getting to that point. The story of the life and death of Gary Webb says much about the state of American politics and what passes as "journalism" in today's America.


NEC develops CD, DVD, HD-DVD drive prototype

KAWASAKI, JAPAN - Engineers at NEChave developed a prototype optical disc drive that supports the new HD-DVD format and is also compatible with CD and DVD formats, they said Wednesday.


Pitt to Interview at Least Three Coaches (AP)

AP - Pittsburgh athletic director Jeff Long plans to interview at least three candidates to replace football coach Walt Harris.


Nokia To Use Holograms To Thwart Battery Counterfeiters

Hologram labels will help customers identify original Nokia batteries, thus ensuring the safe use of handsets, says Nokia. All new batteries will come with a holographic image and an authentication code hidden under it.


Fannie Mae Didn't Comply With Accounting Rules, S.E.C. Says

Fannie Mae, the biggest source of money for U.S. home mortgages, broke accounting rules for financial contracts designed to protect against swings in interests rates.


Eurozone central bank gives clean bill of health to hedge funds

The European Central Bank has given hedge funds a generally clean bill of health, saying the possible dangers to financial markets are  quot;much less worrisome quot; than even a few years ago.


Cavaliers Trip Trail Blazers 112-88 (AP)

AP - LeBron James scored 12 of his 25 points in less than three minutes of the third quarter and Ira Newble added a season-high 18 as the Cleveland Cavaliers won their ninth straight at home, 112-88 over the Portland Trail Blazers on Wednesday night.


No. 3 Georgia Tech Rolls Over James Madison, 72-47

ATLANTA (Sports Network) - Isma #39;il Muhammad scored a team-high 14 points, Jarrett Jack added 13 and third-ranked Georgia Tech rolled over James Madison, 72-47, in a non-league tilt at the Alexander Memorial Coliseum.


Baseball's Homeless Franchise

Bud Selig, the Major League Baseball commissioner, didn't realize he was gambling when he awarded the Expos to Washington.


Spain coach faces racism inquiry

THE Spanish football federation yesterday opened a disciplinary file against national coach Luis Aragones - but anti-racism campaigners expect him to be let off with a warning.


Sudan to Stop Fighting if Rebels Withdraw (AP)

AP - Sudan is prepared to halt military operations in the Darfur region if rebels withdraw from some positions they captured earlier this year, government negotiators said Wednesday.


Scientist Uses Whey to Protect Food (AP)

AP - Oxygen, water, seeping oils  #151; they're all out to get your food, turning sweet nuts sour and tasty confections rancid. Food scientist John Krochta is fighting back with an unlikely weapon, edible food coatings derived from whey, the dairy byproduct favored by protein-conscious athletes and Miss Muffet.


Brokerage Settles Charges Over Mutual Fund Fees

A Fort Worth brokerage that sold high-fee mutual funds to military families agreed yesterday to pay \$12 million to settle allegations that it used misleading marketing literature and scripts.


Elements of Web Hosting

Elements of Web Hosting\\When you first start out trying to get a site on the Internet everything seems so confusing. Obtuse acronyms flow freely through the 'Beginner Friendly' information sites and definitions can be hard to come across. The main reason for this is that the Internet and the process ...


A Distraction as a Deadline Approaches

As the holidays approach, Christmas spirit is a bargain-hunting essential.


Russian oil giant tries US court

MOSCOW - Embattled Russian oil giant Yukos filed for bankruptcy protection in a US court in a last-ditch bid to avert auction of its core production unit.


Quickies put Pakistan on top in Perth

Pakistan pacemen Shoaib Akhtar and Mohammad Sami tore through Australia #39;s top order as the home side struggled to 72 for four at lunch on the opening day of the first test in Perth on Thursday.


Suicide Bomber Kills 21 Iraqi Troops

BAGHDAD (Reuters) - A suicide car bomb hit a bus carrying  Iraqi National Guards on Sunday, killing 22 people in the  deadliest attack of its kind in nearly four months on Iraqis  cooperating with U.S. forces to secure a Jan. 30 election.


Sprint to Buy Nextel in \$36 Billion Deal

NEW YORK/WASHINGTON (Reuters) - Sprint Corp. said Wednesday  it would buy mobile telephone company Nextel Communications  Inc. for about \$36 billion, creating a U.S. wireless carrier  with nearly 40 million subscribers.


Outlook gloomy for DC baseball

WASHINGTON - The president of Major League Baseball called Washington DC #39;s legislation for a new stadium  quot;wholly unacceptable quot; on Wednesday night and halted all business and promotional activities for the Washington Nationals until further notice.


Japan govt body to call for 5.7 billion dollar aid to Daiei (AFP)

AFP - A Japanese government-backed organization will ask financial institutions to provide troubled retailer Daiei with 600 billion yen (5.7 billion dollars) in financial assistance.


Wade drives Heat over Wizards

The Washington Wizards are finished with the Miami Heat for the season. That #39;s the good news. Dwyane Wade had 29 points and nine assists Wednesday to lead the Heat to a 98-93 win for their


Time Warner settles with DOJ, SEC for \$510 mil

Time Warner Inc. on Wednesday settled criminal securities fraud charges the government leveled on its America Online unit, agreeing to pay \$210 million to end the Justice Department #39;s probe.


UTC buys Kidde for 1.4bn

UK fire equipment manufacturer Kidde agrees a 1.4bn takeover by US manufacturer United Technologies.


Mass. auto rates to stay fairly steady next year

The state insurance commissioner yesterday held auto insurance premiums fairly steady for next year while approving measures that could sharply increase the rates paid by inexperienced teenage drivers.


Bush vows to cut deficit

President Bush pledged yesterday to work with Congress to reduce the government #39;s huge budget deficit as a key step in assuring the world that his administration supports a strong dollar.


Time Warner settles AOL investigations for \$510 million

Time Warner will pay \$210 million to defer a Justice Department investigation into accounting irregularities at its Dulles-based America Online unit.


Intel to take over HP #39;s Itanium chip team

SAN FRANCISCO (CBS.MW) -- Intel will take over a team of 300 Hewlett-Packard chip designers working on Intel #39;s Itanium server processors.


Donato has Harvard on the move, in groove

Three games into the 2004-05 season, the first-year coach with the Harvard degree and NHL pedigree was staring at a 0-2-1 record, an offense that was averaging a goal a game, and a locker room full of long faces.


BT cuts prices for telecom rivals

Ofcom is cutting the price BT can charge its rivals for putting their broadband equipment in its exchanges by up to 60.


Apple #39;s iPod in short supply

Apple Computer Inc. #39;s iPod digital music players are in short supply at US retailers including Amazon.com Inc. and Best Buy Co.


Living legends left their marks

PASADENA, Calif. -- The first football meeting between Michigan and Texas in yesterday's Rose Bowl brought together two coaching legends -- Bo Schembechler and Darrell Royal .


N. Korea Economic Sanctions 'One Option'--Japan

TOKYO (Reuters) - Economic sanctions against North Korea  are "one option," but care is needed in deciding whether to  take that step, Japanese Foreign Minister Nobutaka Machimura  said on Thursday, a day after Pyongyang warned Japan that  imposing sanctions would be tantamount to war.


Fresh bid to dismiss Jackson case

Lawyers for Michael Jackson say the singer's child molestation case should be dropped.


UK #39;s highest court rules against holding terror suspects without <b>...</b>

Britain #39;s highest court ruled Thursday that the government cannot detain terror suspects indefinitely without trial. Nine Law Lords ruled in favor of a group of men jailed without charge for


Clarke takes charge of Blunkett's Fear Agenda

Analysis Horizontal drinkers rejoice


EU to Lift U.S. Sanctions Jan. 1

BRUSSELS (Reuters) - The European Commission is sticking  with its plan to lift sanctions on \$4 billion worth of U.S.  goods on Jan. 1 following Washington's repeal of export tax  subsidies in October, a spokeswoman said on Thursday.


National Business Briefs

ALEXANDRIA, Va. - Google Inc. won a major legal victory yesterday when a federal judge ruled that its advertising policy does not violate federal trademark laws.


Wall Street Looks Set for a Mixed Start (Reuters)

Reuters - Wall Street looked set for a mixed start\on Thursday as oil prices remained near two-week highs and\investors braced for a clutch of economic data and earnings\from high-profile firms like Goldman Sachs  and Nike\.


Shopping surges ahead of Christmas

Retail sales have risen sharply in the run-up to the key Christmas season, adding to data which suggests the economy is gathering pace and interest rates may rise next year.


Yahoo! To Provide Traffic Updates

As part of an effort to expand local content, Internet portal company Yahoo! Wednesday night began offering Web surfers information about current traffic conditions for the largest US metro areas.


Daily Mail hits back at Blunkett

The Daily Mail today dismissed David Blunkett #39;s claim that the media played a role in his downfall, saying he only had himself to blame.


Symantec to Buy Veritas for \$13.5 Billion

NEW YORK (Reuters) - Security software maker Symantec Corp.  has agreed to buy Veritas Software Corp. for \$13.5 billion,  expanding into the backup and recovery software market, the  companies said on Thursday.


Environment check from crab urine

Crabs' urine and changes in snails' sex hormones are helping UK scientists to monitor the environment.


Broadband charges set to tumble

The cost of broadband internet access is likely to fall after Ofcom ordered British Telecom to cut the amount it charges internet providers.


Iceland Offers Shelter to Fugitive Chess Player

Fugitive chess master Bobby Fischer has been offered a new home in Iceland, where he won a classic victory in 1972, but it is unclear whether he will be able to make the move from his detention in Japan.


No Safe Place for Satellites (SPACE.com)

SPACE.com - SAN FRANCISCO -- A pocket of near-Earth space tucked between radiation belts gets flooded with charged particles during massive solar storms, shattering the illusion it was a safe place for satellites.


Austrian warning on Turkey #39;s EU hopes

MEISE, Belgium, Dec 16 (AFP) - The EU must be sure it has the  quot;capacity to absorb quot; Turkey before it gives a green light to the vast Muslim country #39;s hopes of joining the bloc, Austrian Chancellor Wolfgang Schuessel warned Thursday.


Relations with India not at Pakistans expense: China

BEIJING: Chinas improving relations with India will not come at the expense of Pakistan, Chinese Premier Wen Jiabao said in his meeting with Prime Minister Shaukat Aziz here on Wednesday.


Efficient Germany Sweep Past Japan

Two goals from Miroslav Klose helped Jrgen Klinsmann #39;s experimental Germany side breeze to a 3-0 win over Japan in Yokohama this afternoon.


Britons still prefer fish n'chips (AFP)

AFP - Traditional fish-and-chips along with cherished pub grub remain the dishes of choice for Britons outstripping Chinese or Indian take-aways.


UK cannot hold suspects indefinitely

(OfficialWire) -- 12/16/04 -- Britain #39;s highest court ruled Thursday against holding terror suspects without trial, saying the government cannot detain terror suspects indefinitely without trial.


Music lovers can download entire track on their Mobile Phone

Here is good news for music lovers! Now you can download the entire track on your mobile phone. This is made possible as two giants US-based Melodeo and Warner Music Group has signed an agreement whereby consumers


Langer leads the Australian charge

Justin Langer #39;s coruscating unbeaten 181 shone through on an enthralling day of Test cricket when Australia demonstrated, once again, why they are by far the best side in the world.


Rite Aid Swings to Loss

Rite Aid (RAD:NYSE - news - research) swung into the red for its third quarter and lowered expectations for fiscal 2005. The drugstore chain said Thursday it posted a loss of \$7.7 million, or 1 cent a share


NASA Leader Cites Finances and Submits His Resignation

Sean O #39;Keefe resigned as NASA administrator on Monday, saying he is leaving the position he has held for three years to pursue better economic opportunity for his family.


More African troops go to Darfur

Germany sends three planes to Sudan's troubled Darfur region to help deploy more African Union troops.


FEC Elects Chairman, Vice Chairman (AP)

AP - The Federal Election Commission on Thursday elected a new chairman and vice chairman, choosing as its leaders two members who pushed unsuccessfully for tougher limits on partisan political groups.


Connors rallying cry for British tennis

quot;Do you have it in your heart? How much guts do you have? How much do you hate to lose? quot;. These are the questions Jimmy Connors will be asking of Britain #39;s brightest tennis hopes in the months, and possibly years, to come.


SAP Launches Security Service

SAP has launched SAP Security Optimization, a service that evaluates a customer #39;s SAP system to identify and eliminate potential vulnerabilities and minimize the risk of intrusions.


Braves, Smoltz agree to new deal

Atlanta, GA (Sports Network) - The Atlanta Braves announced Thursday that the team has come to terms with longtime pitcher John Smoltz to a new two-year contract with a club option for the 2007 season.


UPDATE 1-BMW, Honda drop challenge to F1 rules

Carmakers BMW and Honda have dropped plans to challenge Formula One #39;s governing body over engine rules for 2006 after deciding that legal action would be bad for motor racing.


Fannie Mae Pays the Price of Cutting Corners to Look Safe

Two regulatory agencies have concluded that Fannie Mae cut corners when it came to its accounting, and that has severely damaged its image.


Point-counterpoint: Nets stifle Knicks

Jason Kidd had the pass of the night, an off-the-backboard, alley-oop feed that Vince Carter dunked, and the New Jersey Nets defeated the New York Knicks and their self-proclaimed "best point guard in the NBA," 93-87, last night at Madison Square Garden. Kidd didn't outplay point guard counterpart Stephon Marbury, who made that bold declaration the previous day at practice.


Blast kills at least three in crowded market in southern <b>...</b>

MANILA, Philippines At least three people have been killed and several injured in a powerful explosion at a crowded public market in the southern Philippines.


Water and robots on Mars chosen as tops in 2004 Science

It #39;s the discovery by two Mars rovers that the Red Planet once had water and possibly could have supported life. That recognition comes today from the journal Science.


FCC Mulls Airborne Mobile Phone Use

Although there may have been technical limitations at the time the cell phone ban was established, according to IDC #39;s Shiv Bakhshi, it is unclear why the ban has remained in place, given that


New Grand Theft Auto Video Game Heads to Xbox (Reuters)

Reuters - Video game hit "Grand Theft Auto:\San Andreas" is coming to the Xbox and personal computer\platforms next June, publisher Take-Two Interactive Software\Inc. said on Thursday.


Samsung looks to top 100m unit sales next year (FT.com)

FT.com - Samsung Electronics, the world's second-largest mobile phone maker, expects its handset sales to rise 16 per cent next year to more than 100m units.


Africa fights AIDS with girl power

A bill is currently in Uganda's parliament that would strengthen women's rights.


Guidant merges with Johnson and Johnson

Indianapolis, Dec. 16 - An announcement Thursday morning ends weeks of speculation and means that if Guidant shareholders sign off, Indiana will lose one of its few Fortune 500 companies.


HP drops Itanium development

Hewlett-Packard Co. (HP) is getting out of the chip-making business. The Palo Alto, California, company on Thursday announced that it reached an agreement with Intel Corp.


Ants Follow Forks in Their Roads to Find Home

Forget GPS, forget road signs. Researchers in England say foraging Pharaoh's ants employ a simpler means to find their way home: geometry.


Mars mission hailed as top 2004 breakthrough

The discovery that Mars could have supported life billions of years ago has been ranked by the editors of international journal Science as the most important scientific achievement of 2004.


Hudson Traded to Braves (Reuters)

Reuters - The Atlanta Braves have acquired\standout righthander Tim Hudson from the Oakland Athletics in\exchange for outfielder Charles Thomas, right-handed pitcher\Juan Cruz and left-handed pitcher Dan Meyer.


J amp;J acquiring device maker

Johnson  amp; Johnson, the pharmaceutical and health care giant, has announced an agreement to buy Guidant, one of the largest US makers of devices to treat heart and circulatory illnesses, for \$25.4 billion.


Sharon Predicts 'Breakthrough' in Ties With Palestinians

Prime Minister Ariel Sharon said that his government would implement his proposal to dismantle all the Israeli settlements in Gaza and four small ones in the West Bank on schedule.


US rules on share options finalised

The US on Thursday finalised a new accounting standard that will force companies to subtract the cost of share options from their earnings, a move bitterly opposed by Silicon


HP Leaves the Chip-Making Business

Hewlett-Packard is getting out of the chip-making business. The Palo Alto, California, company on Thursday announced that it reached an agreement with Intel that would see HP #39;s Itanium processor design team move to Intel in January.


Boys 'cured' with gene therapy

Gene therapy can cure children born with a condition that knocks out their natural defences against infection, mounting evidence shows.


Smith says Harmison is the weakest link

The South Africa captain Graeme Smith has stirred things up before today #39;s first Test against England by claiming that Steve Harmison, the world #39;s leading bowler, is mentally vulnerable and can be disarmed for the rest of the five-Test series if the


Crude Oil Rises on Speculation Cold Weather May Increase Demand

Crude oil futures are headed for their biggest weekly gain in 21 months on speculation cold weather may boost demand in the US Northeast, where 80 percent of the country #39;s heating oil is used.


Parmalat Sues 45 Banks to Recover \$4 Billion

Parmalat, the bankrupt Italian dairy and food company, sued 45 banks on Thursday seeking to recover money it paid to them in the year before the company #39;s collapse.


EU Sets Date for Turkey Talks, Demands Concession on Cyprus

European Union leaders offered to start membership talks with Turkey next Oct. 3, as long as the Turkish government ends its diplomatic standoff with historic rival Cyprus.


GOP to Sue Over 573 Found Wash. Ballots (AP)

AP - Republicans prepared a lawsuit Thursday to try to prevent King County from including 573 newly discovered ballots in a hand recount that could erase their gubernatorial candidate's razor-thin margin of victory.


White House May Pick Bernanke

The White House, seeking a strong economic team to craft and sell key features of its second-term agenda, is considering tapping Federal Reserve Board member Ben S. Bernanke to serve as chairman


Israel withdraws from Gaza camp

Israel withdraws from Khan Younis refugee camp in the Gaza Strip, after a four-day operation that left 11 dead.


Stocky Monkey in Himalayas Is a Shy Rarity: A New Species

Scientists from India working in the Himalayas have discovered a new species of monkey, a stocky, short-tailed, brown-haired creature they have named the Macaca munzala, or Arunachal macaque.


Experts Optimistic About Shuttle Flight

A group of experts convened by NASA said yesterday that the space shuttle would likely be ready to fly by the currently planned launch date in May or June, but it cautioned that efforts to


Judge Orders Halt to YUKOS Unit Auction (Reuters)

Reuters - A U.S. bankruptcy court on Thursday\stepped into the battle between YUKOS and the Russian\government, issuing an order to block Sunday's auction of the\company's main oil-producing arm for 10 days.


Colombia Says Irish Fugitives Have Fled Country

BOGOTA, Colombia (Reuters) - Three Irish fugitives  convicted of teaching leftist Colombian guerrillas how to make  bombs have escaped the Andean country and are at large outside  its borders, Colombia's attorney general said late on Thursday.


Steelers #39; Burress won #39;t return against Giants

Thursday, he took himself out of consideration during a conversation with Pittsburgh Steelers trainer John Norwig.  quot;When I #39;m running full speed and make a little move, I still feel it a little bit, quot; Burress said of his hamstring.


Cassini photos leaves some mysteries

Cassini #39;s latest sweep past Saturn #39;s moon Titan revealed more intriguing pictures of the surface but left many mysteries intact.


Saddam meets lawyer, aides due in Court

Saddam Hussein met with a defense lawyer Thursday for the first time since his capture a year ago, days before several of his top aides are due to appear in court for hearings on alleged war crimes.


Yahoo Unveils Animated Shorts, Sees New Ad Space (Reuters)

Reuters - Yahoo Inc.  said on\Thursday that JibJab Media will create two animated short films\as the Internet company looks for ways to expand advertising by\adding new content.


Holes Found in Cisco, Veritas, Samba Products (Ziff Davis)

Ziff Davis - Security sources announce four mostly unrelated enterprise vulnerabilities in Cisco Unity, Cisco Guard, Veritas' Backup Exec, and Samba, the Windows file-sharing utility for Linux.


Panasonic Races to Meet Plasma Demand

Company is expanding production to deliver more flat-panel TVs.


For Guidant, J amp;J #39;s resources sealed the deal

After lengthy talks and stiff negotiations over price, the decision by Guidant executives to sell the company for \$25.4 billion came down to the attractiveness of Johnson  amp; Johnson #39;s deep resources.


Update 14: Future of Fannie Mae Executives Unclear

Speculation swirled Thursday over the futures of Fannie Mae #39;s top executives after regulators #39; cited the mortgage giant for accounting violations going back to 2001.


Parma keeps Italian hopes alive

Parma rallied from an early deficit to beat Besiktas 3-2 yesterday and maintain Italy #39;s hopes of winning a UEFA Cup championship it used to dominate.


Sharon decides Israel to attend London Mideast peace conference

Report: Official announcement due next week during British PM Blair #39;s Israel visit. Conference to be confined to PA reforms, will not deal with borders, refugees, settlers and future of Jerusalem.


Governor #39;s proposal: New game, same strategy

If Gov. Rod Blagojevich #39;s proposal to crack down on violent video game sales sounds familiar, look no further than the man he beat to become Illinois #39; chief executive.


Pakistan collapses at the WACA

Opener Justin Langer was last out after a glorious innings of 191 as Australia totaled 381 on the second morning of the first test against Pakistan in Perth on Friday.


Five Killed in Al Qaeda Jailbreak in Kabul

KABUL (Reuters) - Three Afghan prison guards and two  prisoners were killed in a jail break attempt by al Qaeda  inmates Friday and a shoot-out was going on between police and  another two, the chief of Kabul's Pul-i-Charki prison told  Reuters.


Nikkei Rises to Highest Close in 4 Weeks

TOKYO (Reuters) - Japan's Nikkei share average rose to its  highest close in four weeks on Friday as hopes grew for a  seasonal year-end rally, spurring buying in a wide-range of  issues.


Mets Introduce New Prize Pitcher Pedro (AP)

AP - Pedro Martinez formalized a  #36;53 million, four-year contract with the New York Mets on Thursday and embraced the idea of helping rebuild a team that has fallen on hard times.


Pedro, GM welcome challenge that awaits

The Boston Red Sox could offer Pedro Martinez the still-dizzying celebration of a city that he helped to a historic World Series championship.


Israel won #39;t attend London Mideast conference

Israel will not attend a Middle East conference in London early next year but backs its stated aim of fostering Palestinian reform in pursuit of peace after Yasser Arafat #39;s death, a senior official says.


UN shrugs off US demands to boost Iraq presence

BAGHDAD (AFP) - The United States failed win a promise from the United Nations to increase its staff in Iraq ahead of elections as Washington stepped up its charges that Damascus was sheltering insurgent leaders.


Court Seen Lifting YUKOS Block -- Lawyers

LONDON (Reuters) - A U.S. bankruptcy court is likely to  revoke its temporary ban on the sale of Russian oil group  YUKOS's main production unit, lawyers said on Friday.


Fidel Castro Back On His Feet

The Cuban President this week, according to wire reports, stood unassisted for several minutes at a time while greeting Venezuelan President Hugo Chavez, who paid a visit to the island earlier this week.


Consumer Prices Rise 0.2 in November

Consumer prices rose by a mild 0.2 percent in November as costs for gasoline and food products calmed down after posting sharp increases the month before.


EU Move on Cyprus Eases Way for Turkey Deal

BRUSSELS (Reuters) - The European Union and Turkey inched  toward a historic agreement on starting membership talks on  Friday as EU leaders softened their demands on the crucial  sticking point of Cyprus.


Mars water tops science honours

The discovery that salty, acidic water once flowed across the surface of Mars has topped a list of the 10 key scientific advances of 2004.


Indonesia Furious Over Australia #39;s New Maritime Surveillance Zone

Australia #39;s plan to establish a maritime surveillance zone that would cover much of Indonesia has provoked a furious response from Jakarta, which says the policy contravenes both national sovereignty and international law.


IBM BladeCenter specification picks up speed

IBM on Friday announced it has signed up 115 companies since early September to develop for its eServer BladeCenter open specification it co-authored with Intel.


Boeing casts eyes on live TV over Connexion service

The Boeing Co. is planning to add live television to its Connexion by Boeing service during 2005, a company executive said in a recent interview.


Cancer drug blow for AstraZeneca

DRUGS group AstraZeneca today suffered a massive setback after tests showed its blockbuster Iressa cancer treatment did not allow patients to live longer.


Rebels in Battered Congo Town Declare Victory (Reuters)

Reuters - Rebel soldiers confronting\army loyalists near this deserted Congolese farming town\declared victory on Friday after clashes that stirred fears of\fresh violence in turbulent central Africa.


India hospital injections fears

India's health minister tells parliament that nearly 70 of injections at government hospitals are unsafe.


Yahoo Maps To Add Traffic Updates and Reports\\Yahoo is not only becoming the goto place for multimedia search and online entertainment, it's also now offering a new service for monitoring traffic conditions online. Yahoo's offering of traffic updates lets users plan their daily travel routes around slowdowns like constructon or ...


Pfizer News Sends Blue Chips Down

NEW YORK (Reuters) - The Dow Jones industrial average fell  on Friday after Pfizer Inc. PFE.N shares opened nearly 19  percent down on trial data for its popular arthritis drug  Celebrex that showed increased risk of heart attack.


Bad Day for Drug Companies - and Patients

LONDON (Reuters) - Investors in pharmaceuticals were dealt  a triple whammy on Friday as Pfizer Inc, AstraZeneca Plc and  Eli Lilly and Co all shocked the market with bad news about key  products.


Goldcorp Says It Will Review Glamis Bid

Gold miner Goldcorp Inc. on Friday said its board is willing to review and evaluate a takeover offer from Glamis Gold Ltd. that would break up its friendly merger agreement with Wheaton River Minerals Ltd.


Robinho #39;s mother releaased by kidnappers

The mother of Santos striker Robinho was released unharmed on Friday, 40 days after she was kidnapped at a family gathering. Marina da Silva de Souza, 44, appeared healthy but thinner than when she was abducted


Coulthard secures Red Bull seat

Coulthard, whose McLaren contract expires at the end of this year, tested with the Austrian-owned team in Spain recently, easily outpacing Red Bull hopefuls Christian Klien and Vitantonio Liuzzi.


Bosnian Serb PM resigns after war crimes criticism (AFP)

AFP - Bosnian Serb Prime Minister Dragan Mikerevic resigned, a day after the international community imposed fresh sanctions against Serb police and officials for allegedly protecting war crimes fugitives.


November Consumer Prices Rise Moderately

US consumer prices rose modestly in November as a surge in energy costs a month earlier moderated, the Labor Department said on Friday.


United Pilots Cut Deal on Pensions

United Airlines pilots would drop their opposition to the carrier's much-decried plan to eliminate traditional pensions under a tentative contract agreement approved by union leaders.


Circuit City Cautious on Outlook

Circuit City Stores Inc. (CC.N: Quote, Profile, Research) on Friday posted a narrower quarterly loss from continuing operations but said its outlook was cautious for the


US Stocks Drop, Led By Drug Shares; Pfizer, Eli Lilly Tumble

US stocks fell as setbacks for drugmakers, including a study showing Pfizer Inc. #39;s Celebrex painkiller increased the risk of heart attacks, sent health-care shares tumbling.


GM announces global economic development forums

General Motors Corp. said Friday it would host a series of economic development forums around the globe in an effort to share the expertise it has acquired through various local projects.


CarMax Earnings Fall, Stock Up on Outlook (Reuters)

Reuters - CarMax Inc.  on Friday posted\lower quarterly profit, but the used-car retailer said its\sales have been steadily improving, sending its shares up as\much as 14 percent.


Exploring Andromeda (SPACE.com)

SPACE.com - Although winter officially begins on Dec. 21 at 7:40 a.m. EST, \  one of the landmarks of the autumn sky is still readily visible, high toward \  the south around 7 p.m. local time.


Israel's Labour to Join Sharon Coalition-Israeli Media

JERUSALEM (Reuters) - Israel's opposition Labour party has  clinched a deal with Prime Minister Ariel Sharon's Likud party  to join his coalition, a move that could push forward his Gaza  pullout plan, Israeli media reported on Friday.


Whitman: EBay To Buy Rent.com; Compliments Craigslist Stake

Without reserve. EBay (nasdaq: EBAY - news - people ) on Friday said it is buying Rent.com. The latter, which is privately held, provides online listings of apartment and house rentals.


Broncos DT Elliss Out for the Season

ENGLEWOOD, Colo. (Sports Network) - Veteran defensive  tackle Luther Elliss of the Denver Broncos will miss the  remainder of the season because of a herniated disk in his  lower back.


Indiana Hires Hoeppner

Miami of Ohio's Terry Hoeppner is hired as Indiana's football coach and vows to take the Hoosiers to the Rose Bowl for the first time since 1968.


Russia shrugs off US court freeze on oil giant Yukos auction

MOSCOW (AFP) - Russia forged ahead with the weekend auction of the core asset of crippled oil giant Yukos despite a disputed US court order barring the sale, with state-controlled gas giant Gazprom entering the bidding.


NASA #39;s Departing Chief Defends Hubble Decision

NASA #39;s departing chief, Sean O #39;Keefe, on Friday defended his decision to pursue a robotic repair mission to the Hubble Space Telescope, days after a panel of scientists said a shuttle mission would be better.


Cisco invests \$12 million in Japan R amp;D center

On Thursday, the company announced it will invest \$12 million over the next five years in a new research and development center in Tokyo.


This week in merger news

This week saw three merger deals worth about \$60 billion--including one that ranks as the largest software merger in history.


Democrat Seeks to End Iowa, N.H. Power (AP)

AP - If Simon Rosenberg decides to run for Democratic Party chairman, he won't be able to count on much support from Iowa and New Hampshire.


Apple Sues Over Web Leak of Advance Products (Reuters)

Reuters - Apple Computer Inc.  is\suing anonymous people who leaked details about new products by\posting information on the Internet, court documents showed on\Friday.


AU Issues Deadline to Khartoum and Darfur Rebels

ABUJA (Reuters) - The African Union issued a 24-hour  deadline to the Sudanese government and Darfur rebels on Friday  to end fighting after a massive military build-up in the region  over the last two weeks.


Skier Tests Positive

Olympic silver medalist Hans Knauss tests positive for the steroid nandrolone after a World Cup race last month.


Wenger vows no repeat of frailties against Bayern

ARSNE WENGER was raised in Alsace, near the German border, with an affinity for the Bayern Munich football machines of the Seventies.


Microsoft buy comes with strings attached

A software company that Microsoft acquired this week to help beef up computer security may come with a bug of its own--a company claiming ownership of the programs.


U.S. Army aims to halt paperwork with IBM system

The U.S. Army has struck a deal with IBM and other companies to create an automated record-keeping system that ends the need for electronic forms to be printed out, signed and delivered up the military service's chain of command.


Barcelona return for Mourinho

Jose Mourinho, the Chelsea manager, last night talked about how  quot;emotional quot; it will be returning to Barcelona in the last 16, knockout stage of the Champions League.


2005 American Bowl teams announced

New York, NY (Sports Network) - Indianapolis will take on Atlanta in the 2005 American Bowl in Japan, the league announced Friday.


Carter could prove real plus for Nets

The Nets reported deal for Vince Carter very much surprises me given New Jersey #39;s cost-slashing moves in the offseason that saw the exits of Kenyon Martin and Kerry Kittles.


Sudan govt unleashes offensive in South Darfur: SLA rebels

CAIRO, Dec 17 (AFP) -- One of the two main rebel groups in Sudan #39;s war-torn Darfur region said that the government had launched an offensive on rebel-held towns in southern Darfur, denouncing it as a truce violation.


Airbus chief wins fight to take controls at Eads

The head of plane maker Airbus yesterday won a bitter battle to oust his boss from the helm of parent aerospace group Eads after winning the support of a key shareholder.


England labour but find their second wind

This was not an easy day on which to play cricket. The sun shone brilliantly enough but for all of the opening day of the series a buffeting westerly crosswind flapped the trouser legs of the players, put


EBay #39;s Buy Of Rent.com May Lack Strategic Sense

Standard  amp; Poor #39;s Equity Research said the purchase of Rent.com by eBay (nasdaq: EBAY - news - people ) could be a bit of a miscalculation.


Analysis: PeopleSoft users speak out about Oracle takeover (InfoWorld)

InfoWorld - The great debate over the impact of Oracle's hostile takeover of PeopleSoft has all the big industry analyst organizations weighing in. However, in most of the analysis one group's opinion seems to have been overlooked: that of PeopleSoft users.


Right-hander must pass physical

Right-hander Matt Clement and the Boston Red Sox agreed Friday to a three-year deal in the \$25 million range, according to a report on MLB.


Pacers 89, Raptors 86

Jamaal Tinsley scored 17 of his 22 points in the second half to lead the Indiana Pacers to an 89-86 victory over the Toronto Raptors, who traded All Star Vince Carter to New Jersey earlier Friday.


Pricey Drug Trials Turn Up Few New Blockbusters

The \$500 billion drug industry is stumbling badly in its core business of finding new medicines, while aggressively marketing existing drugs.


NBA Game Summary - Denver at Miami

Miami, FL (Sports Network) - Shaquille O #39;Neal had 20 points, 10 rebounds, seven assists and three blocks and Dwyane Wade led all scorers with 25 points, as the Miami Heat downed the Denver Nuggets, 107-100.


Hobbit-finding Boffins in science top 10

AP - Australian scientists who helped discover a species of tiny humans nicknamed Hobbits have been hailed for making the second most important scientific achievement of 2004.


Search providers seek video, find challenges

Internet search providers are reacting to users #39; rising interest in finding video content on the Web, while acknowledging that there are steep challenges that need to be overcome.


The Newest Hope ; Marriage of Necessity Just Might Work Out

NEW YORK - The TV lights were on, the cameras rolled and the symphony of cameras flashing in his face blinded Pedro Martinez - but not for long.


Saban hiring on hold

DAVIE - The Dolphins want Nick Saban, and the LSU coach could be on his way. Although LSU Athletic Director Skip Bertman said Friday that  quot;an offer is very imminent, quot; the Dolphins are committed to adhering


Bosnian-Serb prime minister resigns in protest against U.S. sanctions (Canadian Press)

Canadian Press - BANJA LUKA, Bosnia-Herzegovina (AP) - The prime minister of the Serbian half of Bosnia resigned Friday, a day after the U.S. government and Bosnia's top international administrator sanctioned Bosnian Serbs for failing to arrest and hand over war crimes suspects to the UN tribunal.


Historic Turkey-EU deal welcomed

The European Union's decision to hold entry talks with Turkey receives a widespread welcome.


Mortaza strikes to lead superb Bangladesh rally

Paceman Mashrafe Mortaza claimed two prize scalps, including Sachin Tendulkar with the day #39;s first ball, to lead a Bangladesh fightback in the second and final test against India on Saturday.


Powell pushes diplomacy for N. Korea

WASHINGTON -- Outgoing Secretary of State Colin L. Powell said yesterday he doesn't regret being the public face for the Bush administration's international call to war in Iraq. He also believes diplomacy is making headway in containing nuclear threats in Iran and North Korea, he said in an interview.


Around the world

Ukrainian presidential candidate Viktor Yushchenko was poisoned with the most harmful known dioxin, which is contained in Agent Orange, a scientist who analyzed his blood said Friday.


Void is filled with Clement

With the supply of attractive pitching options dwindling daily -- they lost Pedro Martinez to the Mets, missed on Tim Hudson, and are resigned to Randy Johnson becoming a Yankee -- the Red Sox struck again last night, coming to terms with free agent Matt Clement on a three-year deal that will pay the righthander in the neighborhood of \$25 ...


Martinez leaves bitter

Like Roger Clemens did almost exactly eight years earlier, Pedro Martinez has left the Red Sox apparently bitter about the way he was treated by management.


5 of arthritis patients in Singapore take Bextra or Celebrex <b>...</b>

SINGAPORE : Doctors in the United States have warned that painkillers Bextra and Celebrex may be linked to major cardiovascular problems and should not be prescribed.


EBay gets into rentals

EBay plans to buy the apartment and home rental service Rent.com for \$415 million, adding to its already exhaustive breadth of offerings.