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Britain's Got Talent : Susan Boyle Has A Makeover

2009-05-15T21:56:00.000-07:00

Oprah, the second most famous person in the world, had Susan Boyle, the most famous person in the world on her show today (Monday May 11, 2009).

Susan Boyle opened her house and welcomed the Oprah film crew in to give the world a glance at how she lived.

Susan told Oprah that she has been singing all of her life, except for one small break when her mother died in 2007. "After that, there was a wee period where I didn't sing," she said.

She said she began singing when she was 9, to compensate for a learning disability. "I was kind of a slow learner at school, so getting something like singing was a good way of hiding behind that and so boosting my confidence," she said.

Susan is loving her new found fame, off the back of the reality show Britain’s Got Talent. "It's like a dream come true," she says.

As for recent makeover, she denies it was one.

"It depends what you mean by a makeover," she says. "I said to my best friend, I said, 'How's about you do my makeup?' I mean, that's hardly a makeover."

Susan Boyle rose to fame only 5 weeks ago when a “gobsmacking” performance of ‘I Dreamed A Dream’ on Britain’s Got Talent.

Every week since, the producers of the show have tried to throw a competitor in to trump Boyle’s performance but has so far failed to achieve their sidetrack.

This week, the musical equivalent of the bearded lady, a male opera singer who looked like a rock star and sounded like a woman won the show.

They have tried a male Susan Boyle, a cute kid dancer and a boy who sounded like Michael Jackson but the fact is that once their 15 minutes of fame was over, no-one remembered their names. None of them were a Susan Boyle.

Boyle’s sudden fame surprised the show’s Simon Cowell, who didn’t allow her to sing on the Oprah show this week, claiming it was an unfair advantage over the other contestants.

Cowell spoke highly of Susan. "You've got practically the whole world behind you now," he says. "So I want to say congratulations and wish you the best of luck."

Susan, the youngest of nine, says she started singing when she was 12 years old. Music, she says, helped her cope with a learning disability. "I was kind of a slow learner at school, so getting something like singing was a good way of hiding behind that and so boosting my confidence."

Susan says her biggest supporter was her mom, who died in 2007. "After that, there was a wee period where I didn't sing," she says.

To help cope with the loss, Susan says she auditioned for Britain's Got Talent. "I am very slowly getting over it," she says. "One of the reasons I applied for the TV show was to try to see if I could perform in front of an audience."

It was the performance of Susan's life—and everything changed overnight. Paparazzi now camp outside of the home she's lived in for 48 years, and her mailbox is filling up with fan mail—with a few letters for her cat, Pebbles, mixed in

Susan says she's embracing every moment of her newfound fame. "It's like a dream come true," she says.

Despite constant public scrutiny over her appearance, Susan says she hasn't had a makeover. "It depends what you mean by a makeover," she says. "I said to my best friend, I said, 'How's about you do my makeup?' I mean, that's hardly a makeover."

Though she cut and colored her hair, Susan says it wasn't part of a dramatic transformation plan. "I did a bit, but that was just to tidy myself up like any other female would have done," she says.

No matter what, Simon says the competition is all about Susan and her voice. "You've got practically the whole world behind you now," he says. "So I want to say congratulations and wish you the best of luck."
What Do You Think About The Makeover Of Susan Boyle??
Source : by Paul Cashmere

The Winner Of American Idol 2009 : Kris Allen Vs Adam Lambert

2009-05-15T20:57:00.001-07:00

It may seem like the contest is over. For many weeks, show enthusiasts (myself included) have speculated Adam Lambert would — or, at least, should — win this season of American Idol.

Of course, way back in Season 2, I was just as certain Clay Aiken would walk away with the title. And that didn’t happen. So, don’t count out Kris Allen. The show is not over until the sparks fly and the confetti falls.

Many people are angry Danny Gokey did not make it to the finale. My e-mail inbox has been flooded with feedback from fans swearing they will never watch another season, because they just know this show is rigged. Sorry, folks, but I think the producers can stand to lose a few viewers and be just fine. After all, 88 million votes were cast this week. And the show still remains to be the top-rated — by a mile — week after week. Plus, they have given several finalists record deals, so I don’t think they really care who wins these days.

But on to the debate. Will it be Adam? Or is Kris going to continue his climb to the title? Here’s why it could go either way:

ADAM LAMBERT
Adam has been consistent since the beginning. He has that extra spark that makes him stand out — in a good way — from the other contestants. He can really, really sing anything. And he’s entertaining. You never know what you will get from an Adam Lambert performance until he opens his mouth, and that’s worked for him to this point.

He already has been featured on the cover of Entertainment Weekly. I believe (don’t quote me, though) this is the first time an Idol finalist has gone solo on a major magazine cover before that season’s winner has been crowned.

Now back to the singing. All you have to do is take one more listen to Tracks of My Tears, one of his best performances, and you will understand why Adam is this year’s leader. Or search for any of his performances. He has been on top of his game from the start.

There are some things that could really be working against Adam, too.

Simon Cowell has not dodged the question of who should win this season. He mentioned to both Ellen DeGeneres and Oprah that he thinks Adam should take the crown. This could hurt, considering so many people feel the show is rigged and the judges are doing everything to throw the votes his way. (Keep in mind, America has the last say.)

Katy Perry wore Adam’s name on the back of her Elvis-inspired cape during Wednesday’s results show, which also serves as a ringing endorsement from a top-selling artist. Of course, this also is being seen by many fans as a way to “brainwash” the viewers into choosing Adam.

Plus, and I hate that this matters, there is the question of his sexuality. While Adam has not confirmed or denied rumors of his sexuality, there have been plenty of pictures released of him kissing other men. It hasn’t hurt so far in the competition, but now is certainly the time it could.

KRIS ALLEN
He’s the dark horse in the competition, and that could be a good thing. Since the beginning, Kris has been moving slowly uphill with momentum. In the early stages of auditions, he didn’t really stand out (ala Kelly Clarkson), but he’s grown more and more each week into a true artist.

While Adam may be the favored winner of Simon Cowell, Kris has had his fair share of endorsements from the judges. This week’s performance of Kanye West’s Heartless led Randy Jackson to say it was better than the original. You know, the one by Kanye West. Not a bad endorsement, if you ask me. (I also would like to note it was this stellar performance that clenched his finale appearance. He clearly exceeded expectations and made himself look stronger than Danny Gokey.)

Speaking of Danny, Kris also is more in line with that conservative style. He doesn’t wear guyliner, and his style of music and wardrobe matches more closely. And that means the transfer of Danny votes could really sway this thing into a shocking Kris Allen victory.

But, again, I return to the music. If you don’t think Kris Allen has a fighting chance, check out his version of Falling Slowly. That, to me, really proved he could be something big in the industry.

There are some things that could really be working against Kris Allen, too.

Mostly, the fact he isn’t Adam Lambert.

Source : http://www.watchingamericanidol.com

Adam Lambert Biography

2009-05-08T17:43:00.000-07:00

Adam Lambert (born January 29, 1982) is an American actor and singer from Los Angeles, California. He is currently a finalist on the eighth season of American Idol.

Lambert grew up in Rancho Peñasquitos, San Diego, California and attended Deer Canyon Elementary School, Mesa Verde Middle School, and Mt. Carmel High School, where he was in theater, choir, and a jazz band.[2]

Lambert has been a stage actor since he was about 10 years old; he was cast as Linus in San Diego`s Lyceum Theater`s production of You`re a Good Man, Charlie Brown.[3] He also played a part in The Ten Commandments at the Kodak Theatre alongside Val Kilmer.[4] He was the understudy for the part of Fiyero in the touring and Los Angeles casts of the musical Wicked.[4] Since 2004 he regularly performs at the Zodiac Show, which was co-created by Carmit Bachar of the Pussycat Dolls. He also performs at the Upright Cabaret.

Lambert auditioned for the eighth season of American Idol in San Francisco, California. During his initial audition he sang Queen`s "Bohemian Rhapsody". Both Kara DioGuardi and Simon Cowell criticized him for being theatrical, however he moved on to the Hollywood rounds. In Hollywood, Lambert sang Cher`s "Believe", a risky song choice which paid off for him in the end as he made the Top 36.

For his semi-final performance he sang The Rolling Stones` "(I Can`t Get No) Satisfaction". All the judges praised him; however, Simon remarked that parts of it were "excruciatingly bad" while other parts were "brilliant". He called it a "love it or hate it performance". Following that performance, Lambert was voted into the Top 13.

On Michael Jackson week (Top 13), he sang "Black or White" leading to praise from all four judges. After his Top 13 performance of Black or White by Michael Jackson, judge Paula Abdul predicted that he would go on to be the winner or runner-up of the competition. The following week, Lambert sang a modified version of Johnny Cash`s "Ring of Fire". While Randy, Paula, and Kara all liked his performance, Simon called it "indulgent rubbish". On Motown week (Top 10), Lambert distanced himself from the prior week`s performance, singing a slowed down, acoustic version of The Miracles` "The Tracks of My Tears". The judges all liked it, with Simon proclaiming that he had really emerged as a star that night. Smokey Robinson, Motown week`s mentor, gave Adam a standing ovation. The next week he sang Wild Cherry`s "Play That Funky Music". Simon praised him on his brave performance, while Paula described him as a "true genius" whose performance "shattered expectations".

For his Top 8 performance (Year You Were Born) Adam sang the 2001 Gary Jules` arrangement of "Mad World", a song written and performed by British band Tears for Fears in 1982. Because the show had exceeded its time slot, only judge Simon Cowell gave a critique, which he did by simply giving Lambert a standing ovation. The next night, the other judges agreed that a standing ovation was the best critique of Adam`s performance.[5]

Name Adam Lambert
Age 27
Height 6' 1" (185 cm)
Build Athletic
Eye Color Blue
Hair Color Dyed Black
Date of Birth January 29, 1982
Birthplace San Diego, CA
Star Sign Aquarius
Nationality American
Ethnicity White
Religion Atheist
High School Mesa Verde High School,Mt. Carmel High School,Deer Canyon Elementry
Occupation Singer
Celebrity Index Ad
Claim to Fame American Idol 2009
Favourite Links profile.myspace.com

Adam Lambert, Danny Gokey and Kris Allen are the only final contestants not to have been in the Bottom 3, and Now They are ini Final Top 3 American Idol.

UEFA Champion League Semi Final - UEFA Request Ovrebo To Shut Up

2009-05-08T12:05:00.000-07:00

Oslo - Tom Henning Ovrebo did not want to comment about the decision when lead the fight Chelsea vs Barcelona. This is due to Norway referee is requested by UEFA to close the mouth.

Barca come to final champion league is reacted by anger from some Chelsea players to Ovrebo. This was happened after the long whistle was pronounced in a fight that ended 1-1.

John Terry, Michael Ballack and Didier Drogba had confront with Ovrebo. This is following by his decision to reject some opportunities penalty obtained by Chelsea.

Chelsea players who appear most pressing and emotional to Ovrebo is Drogba. However, Ovrebo still would not comment on decisions taken in the match.

Ovrebo also admitted that he was not allowed to comment by UEFA. "Because the situation after the match, UEFA ask us not commented on the media," he said as announced as Sky.

When asked if he knows when he can discuss about the match? "No. I do not know," answered Ovrebo.

Not only in the stadium, Ovrebo also had death threats. This make the baldheaded head referee get stricter under guard to return to his country.

Meanwhile, Uefa confirmed that they await a report from Ovrebo. This will be the consideration of UEFA before deciding to take disciplinary action to the Chelsea players.

"We will see reports from the referee of the match and also the delegation before deciding wheather we need to take action or not," said the Uefa spokesman.

However, Uefa refused to give his comments about the leadership of Ovrebo referee who was criticized by manager Guus Hiddink. "We never comment on the performance of referee," specifically.

Adam Lambert: "I Know Who I Am"

2009-05-08T11:19:00.000-07:00

Adam Lambert: "I Know Who I Am"

Gay? Straight?

Adam Lambert isn't revealing either way.

The American Idol frontrunner skirts questions about public scrutiny of his sexuality in the new issue of Entertainment Weekly.

See what an Idol stylist has to say about contestants' fashion choices.

"I know who I am," says Lambert -- who has appeared on the web dressed in drag and is widely assumed to be gay by celeb followers Kathy Griffin and Hairspray director Adam Shankman.

"I'm an honest guy, and I'm just going to keep on singing," continues the 27-year-old San Diego native -- who has only landed in Idol's bottom three once this season.

Look back on the most controversial contestants of all time.

Simon Cowell told TV Guide that Idol has "never had an issue" with Lambert's sexuality and called it a "huge step forward" -- but never discussed if he's out specifically. Judges have also called him "brave" for "being himself."

Lambert wouldn't be the only contestant in Idol history who is gay, if he is in fact gay. Clay Aiken, who came in second place behind Ruben Studdard in 2003, came out in April 2008, declaring "people don't care" about his sexuality.

See which Idols have had babies and weddings.

Still, Aiken admitted Idol voters "don't want to have that type of stuff pushed, people who are living in Omaha or in Charlotte or wherever."

Lambert -- who could be the first gay Idol winner -- is leaving everyone guessing.

A TMZ.com reporter recently ambushed him, asking awkwardly: "So, you could be the first...."

Lambert smiled and teased: "The first what?"

Neither the reporter nor Lambert finished the sentence.

"American Idol" Top 4: Adam Lambert's Zeppelin flies high

Wow, extra guy-liner tonight, huh Adam? Now this time the screams fit the song. This was simply amazing, especially the last 30 seconds. (Ryan adds that it was the first time a Zeppelin song has ever been performed on Idol. Apparently song clearance was obtained at the last minute today. He must have had a backup song ready.)

Randy: "You're a rock star tonight. You and Slash should make a record."
Kara: "You're a rock god!"
Paula: "You're a whole lotta perfect!"
Simon: "It was one my favorite performances you've ever done. The problem is nobody can top that now."

What did you think of his performance?

Top Flu Expert Warns Of A Swine Flu-Bird Flu Mix

2009-05-08T10:56:00.000-07:00

MEXICO CITY – Bird flu kills more than 60 percent of its human victims, but doesn't easily pass from person to person. Swine flu can be spread with a sneeze or handshake, but kills only a small fraction of the people it infects.

So what happens if they mix?

This is the scenario that has some scientists worried: The two viruses meet — possibly in Asia, where bird flu is endemic — and combine into a new bug that is both highly contagious and lethal and can spread around the world.

Scientists are unsure how likely this possibility is, but note that the new swine flu strain — a never-before-seen mixture of pig, human and bird viruses — has shown itself to be especially adept at snatching evolutionarily advantageous genetic material from other flu viruses.

"This particular virus seems to have this unique ability to pick up other genes," said leading virologist Dr. Robert Webster, whose team discovered an ancestor of the current flu virus at a North Carolina pig farm in 1998.

The current swine flu strain — known as H1N1 — has sickened more than 2,300 people in 24 countries. While people can catch bird flu from birds, the bird flu virus — H5N1 — does not easily jump from person to person. It has killed at least 258 people worldwide since it began to ravage poultry stocks in Asia in late 2003.

The World Health Organization reported two new human cases of bird flu on Wednesday. One patient is recovering in Egypt, while another died in Vietnam — a reminder that the H5N1 virus is far from gone.

"Do not drop the ball in monitoring H5N1," WHO Director-General Margaret Chan told a meeting of Asia's top health officials in Bangkok on Friday by video link. "We have no idea how H5N1 will behave under the pressure of a pandemic."

Experts have long feared that bird flu could mutate into a form that spreads easily among people. The past three flu pandemics — the 1918 Spanish flu, the 1957-58 Asian flu and the Hong Kong flu of 1968-69 — were all linked to birds, though some scientists believe pigs also played a role in 1918.

Webster, who works at St. Jude's Children's Research Hospital in Memphis, Tenn., said bird flu should be a worry now. Bird flu is endemic in parts of Asia and Africa, and cases of swine flu have already been confirmed in South Korea and Hong Kong.

"My great worry is that when this H1N1 virus gets into the epicenters for H5N1 in Indonesia, Egypt and China, we may have real problems," he told The Associated Press. "We have to watch what's going on very diligently now."

The U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention are extraordinarily busy trying to understand the swine flu virus itself, and haven't had time to break off staff to look at the possibility of a swine flu-bird flu mix, spokesman Dave Daigle said.

Malik Peiris, a flu expert at Hong Kong University, said the more immediate worry is that swine flu will mix with regular flu viruses, as flu season begins in the Southern Hemisphere. It is unclear what such a combination would produce.

But he said there are indications that scenario is possible. Peiris noted that the swine flu virus jumped from a farmworker in Canada and infected about 220 pigs. The worker and the pigs recovered, but the incident showed how easily the virus can leap to a different species.

"It will get passed back to pigs and then probably go from pigs to humans," Peiris said. "So there would be opportunities for further reassortments to occur with viruses in pigs."

He said so far bird flu hasn't established itself in pigs — but that could change.

"H5N1 itself has not got established in pigs," he said. "If that were to happen and then these two viruses were both established in pigs in Asia, that would be quite a worrying scenario."

Michael Osterholm, an infectious disease specialist at the University of Minnesota who has advised the U.S. government on flu preparations, said while flu experts are discussing the scenario, he has yet to see specific evidence causing him to think it will happen.

"Everything with influenza is a huge guessing game because Mother Nature holds all the rules, and we don't even know what they are, so anything's possible," he said. "We don't have any evidence that this particular reassortment is that much more likely to pick up H5N1 than any other reassortment out there."

"We don't have to put these things together," he added. "This is not chocolate and peanut butter running into each other in the dark hallway."

But there is in fact discussion of putting them together — in a high-security laboratory — to see what a combination would look like, according to Webster. Similar tests have been done at the CDC mixing bird flu and seasonal human flu, resulting in a weak product, he said.

Daigle, the CDC spokesman, said the agency wants to look at the question in the future.

Webster has done groundbreaking work on both swine and bird flus in his 40-year career, and has followed the evolution of the current swine flu strain from a virus that sickened a handful of people who worked with North Carolina hogs into a bug that has spread from person to person around the world.

He is closely involved in the global effort to analyze what the virus might do next. It has killed 42 people in Mexico and two in Texas, but so far has not proven very deadly elsewhere, leading to some criticism that the World Health Organization's warnings of a potential pandemic have been overblown.

Webster said underestimating the swine flu virus would be a huge mistake.

"This H1N1 hasn't been overblown. It's a puppy, it's an infant, and it's growing," he said. "This virus has got the whole human population in the world to breed in — it's just happened. What we have to do is to watch it, and it may become a wimp and disappear, or it may become nasty."

AP Medical Writer Maria Cheng in London contributed to this report.

Barack, Miley move up; baby names Emma, Jacob rule

2009-05-08T10:16:00.001-07:00

WASHINGTON – Barack and Miley moved up, but the classics still rule. Emma is the top baby name for girls, Jacob for boys.

Emma ended Emily's 12-year reign as the No. 1 baby name for girls in 2008, the Social Security Administration announced Friday. Jacob was at the top for the 10th straight year.

Barack may have been the man of the year in 2008 as Obama won the presidency, but he's still behind Elvis. Barack didn't crack the top 1,000, though he did move up a record 10,126 spots, to No. 2,409. Elvis is still in the building, but he fell from 673 to 713.

Miley, as in popular teen singer Miley Cyrus, moved up 152 spots to No. 127. But her stage name, Hannah — as in Hannah Montana — fell from No. 9 to No. 17.

Biblical names dominate the top choices for boys while popular culture appears to have influenced some of the girls' names.

Emma debuted in the top 10 in 2002, the same year that Jennifer Aniston's character on "Friends" gave the name to her TV show baby. In the latest lineup, Emma was followed by Isabella, Emily, Madison and Ava.

"People are also so keyed into TV," said Maryanna Korwitts, author of "Name Power 101" and founder of BabyNamingCentral.com. "It's not the best practice but it's what happens."

The top five boys names remained unchanged from 2007. Jacob was followed by Michael, Ethan, Joshua and Daniel.

Little else changed among the top 10 for either sex. Alexander joined the top 10 at No. 6, while Andrew dropped out. Among the girls, Chloe inched her way up to No. 10.

"There's something about naming a child that's a very existential statement," said Social Security Commissioner Michael Astrue. "As you read through this you see the influence of recent immigration, religion, popular culture. Sometimes, it's just people who are admired."

The Social Security Administration started compiling name lists in 1997. The agency offers lists of baby names dating to 1880.

New girl names in the top 1,000 included Isla (623), Mareli (718), Milagros (731), Dayami (750) and Nylah (821).

Debuting among the boys were Aaden (343), Chace (655), Marley (764) Kash (779) and Kymani (836). Beckham debuted at 893, perhaps a nod to the British soccer star, David Beckham, who now plays for the Los Angeles Galaxy.

On the Web: Social Security Administration: http://www.ssa.gov

American Idol 2009 Top 4 Results Show - The Eliminated Singer Is…

2009-05-08T08:10:00.000-07:00

Tonight on American Idol, the elimination results for this season’s Top 4 will be revealed…

So far the American Idol Top 4 Prediction Poll shows that over half of you think Kris Allen will be eliminated tonight

Tonight’s live show is over. Here are your results…

American Idol 2009 Top 3:

* Kris Allen - Ryan just revealed that Kris is safe this week

* Adam Lambert - revealed to be safe

* Danny Gokey - revealed to be safe

American Idol 2009 Top 4 Elimination Results:...

* Allison Iraheta

That’s it, we’ve got an all-boys Idol finale. Allison Iraheta has been eliminated from American Idol! Here is your official list of the American Idol 2009 Top 3 performers.

"Star Trek" Review

2009-05-08T07:56:00.000-07:00

As a summer blockbuster, it delivers on pyrotechnics, fist-clenching excitement and three-dimensional characters. As a reboot of a popular franchise, it takes us back to square one in a way that feels both familiar and fresh. (As opposed to, say, the muddled “X-Men Origins: Wolverine.”) And as a remake of a TV show, it captures the essence of the original while allowing the big-screen version to expand in new and thrilling directions.

REVIEW

Alonso Duralde
Film critic

It was once noted that “Casablanca” was perhaps the one movie to emerge from the studio system that accomplished everything that most studio films of the era tried to do: There’s a love story, intrigue, comedy and even a dash of torn-from-the-headlines current events. Seeing what “Casablanca” does perfectly with such seeming effortlessness throws its lesser contemporaries into sharp relief.

And while “Star Trek” is no “Casablanca,” it sets a new standard in various categories of its own: As a summer blockbuster, it delivers on pyrotechnics, fist-clenching excitement and three-dimensional characters. As a reboot of a popular franchise, it takes us back to square one in a way that feels both familiar and fresh. (As opposed to, say, the muddled “X-Men Origins: Wolverine.”) And as a remake of a TV show, it captures the essence of the original while allowing the big-screen version to expand in new and thrilling directions.

“Star Trek” is easily the summer tentpole movie by which all of 2009’s summer tentpole movies will be measured. And I say this as someone who’s not a fanatic about the original show or about the nerd-friendly work of director J.J. Abrams. (For what it’s worth, the hardcore “Trek” fanatic on one side of me and the person on the other side of me whose only exposure to the “Trek” movies was “the one with the whales” loved it just as much as I did.)

One of the smartest moves that Abrams and writers Roberto Orci and Alex Kurtzman (working from the original Gene Roddenberry blueprint) made was to place this new “Star Trek” both into the saga’s original continuity and outside of it at the same time. (Doing so involves black holes and chronological disparities that make perfect sense during the movie; just don’t ask me to explain them here.) This wormhole-loophole allows the creators to placate old-school Trekkers while simultaneously freeing themselves up to do what they want.

And what they want winds up being exhilarating and intelligent from start to finish. We begin with Romulan madman Nero (Eric Bana) opening fire on the USS Kelvin and taking its captain hostage; assuming command is the first Captain Kirk, who sacrifices his life and his ship so that the Kelvin’s refugees — including his wife, who gives birth to young James Tiberius Kirk during her escape — may live.

Jump forward to troubled adolescent James (Chris Pine), who decides to attend Starfleet Academy after flirting with alien-languages major Uhura (Zoe Saldana) and getting an affectionate talking-to by Captain Christopher Pike (Bruce Greenwood), who studied the Kelvin incident and thinks the younger Kirk could do his father proud.

Meanwhile, on Vulcan, Spock (Zachary Quinto) turns down an opportunity to join the Vulcan Science Council when he realizes they will always judge him for his half-human heritage, choosing instead to join Starfleet. He and Kirk square off at first, but…

I’m shutting up about the plot now, because “Star Trek” (again, unlike “Wolverine”) is loaded with surprises even though the whole movie is about getting Kirk, Spock, Uhura, Bones (Karl Urban), Sulu (John Cho), Chekov (Anton Yelchin), Scotty (Simon Pegg) and the whole gang together again for the first time.

While “Star Trek” certainly represents a triumph for the franchise — these characters are rounded-out and complicated and fully-formed rather than just being charmingly wooden — it’s also a flat-out satisfying movie, even if you come to it with no “Trek” baggage. Whether it’s a breathtaking sequence involving parachutes and a sword-fighting Sulu or outer-space battles that accentuate the terrifying and silent void of the universe, the film balances amazing action with human interactions that are similarly engrossing.

When Pike goads Kirk with the line, “Your father was captain of a starship for 12 minutes. He saved 800 lives, including yours. I dare you to do better,” I could feel the hairs on my neck standing up in a way usually reserved for well-written, powerful dramas and not mass-market genre movies.

This new “Star Trek” made me unpack my adjectives: It’s exciting, moving, hilarious, action-packed, sexy (a romance pops up between two very unexpected characters) and suspenseful — in short, exactly what big, fun summer popcorn movies are supposed to be and yet so rarely are. I’ve never glued on pointy ears and attended a “Star Trek” convention in my life, but this is a “Trek” I could get geeky about.

NASA Warns of Super Solar Storm 2012

2009-05-08T07:43:00.000-07:00

Nasa is warning the world about a major event that is going to take place during the much noted and spoken of 2012 calendar year. A year that was an important date of Earth's history. 2012 is also a prophecy predicted of a enormous global event seen by the ancient-Mayans civilization as well as others. Is this super solar storm what the Mayans invisioned?

What NASA is saying is a super solar storm can possibly effect life on Earth in such away it may even wipe it out life as we know it. A throwback atleast of a hundred years or worse.

Making daily life completely unfamiliar to us. The entire globe's electric power grid could be knocked out causing us to tumble back to existence of living off the land without electricity or satelite capabilities.

Advanced civilizations that rely on technology could become obsolete things of the past. Michio Kaku a well known astro-physicist speaks in depth about the devistation this event may cause.

HERE IS THE FOOTAGE

Swine flu shuts more than 400 schools

2009-05-02T01:58:00.000-07:00

President Barack Obama voiced hope Friday that the swine flu virus will run its course “like ordinary flus” as officials reported more than two dozen new cases and scores more schools shut down.

The government issued new guidance for schools with confirmed cases, saying they should close for at least 14 days because children can be contagious for seven to 10 days from when they get sick. That means parents can expect to have children at home for longer than previously thought.

The Education Department said that 433 schools had closed, affecting 245,000 children in 17 states. That was about 100 more schools reported closed than reported on Thursday.

Major U.S. airlines, meanwhile, announced plans to curtail flights into flu-ravaged Mexico.

“I’m optimistic that we’re going to be able to manage this effectively,” Obama told reporters as he received an update from his Cabinet on the federal response to the health emergency. At the same time, he emphasized that the federal government is preparing as if the worst is still to come so that it won’t be caught flat-footed.

Obama’s fresh take on the flu scare — more intense in neighboring Mexico than in the United States but also present in some measure around the globe — came as the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention reported the virus has been confirmed in eight more U.S. states and seems to be spreading.

Cases confirmed by the CDC and states rose to more than 150, with the flu now reported in more than 20 states.

The most recent onset of illness was Tuesday, CDC said, indicating a continuing spread, though no faster than the rate of the regular winter flu.

“We think the cases do continue to occur,” said CDC’s Dr. Anne Schuchat. But CDC also said the new swine flu virus lacks genes that made the 1918 pandemic strain so deadly.

Obama said it wasn’t clear whether the flu would be more severe than others before it, and he said the swine flu is a cause for special concern because it is a new strain and people have not developed an immunity to it.

Government agencies are preparing in case the flu comes back in a more virulent form during the traditional flu season, the president said, talking of an overarching effort to help schools and businesses while also responding to pleas for help from other countries.

'Don't fall behind'

While emphasizing at a press conference that the closures to date represent a tiny fraction of the almost 100,000 schools in the country, Education Secretary Arne Duncan instructed teachers, parents and students to be prepared if their school does close.

To teachers, Duncan said: “Think about reworking upcoming lesson plans so students can do their schoolwork at home if necessary.”

To parents: “Learn about what they’re learning at school. Keep them on task.”

And to students: “Don’t fall behind your peers at other schools that are still in session. Keep working hard.”

Many travelers have become increasingly concerned about going to Mexico, though authorities there said new cases were leveling off.

>The Mexico City mayor said Friday that no new flu deaths were reported overnight for the first time since the emergency was declared a week ago. Mexico has confirmed nearly 400 swine flu cases and has 16 confirmed deaths, although reports have indicated that roughly 168 may have died from it.

U.S. travelers have been advised to avoid nonessential travel to Mexico. Continental Airlines Inc., the biggest U.S. carrier to Mexico, said Friday it would halve the number of seats it sells to fly there. Delta Air Lines Inc. and UAL Corp.’s United Airlines also announced plans for reduced flights to Mexico, while smaller carriers were following suit.

'We're not the Typhoid Mary family'

The energy secretary aide who apparently got sick helping arrange Obama’s recent trip to Mexico told The Associated Press when reached at his office Friday that he was feeling better.

The aide, Marc Griswold, a former Secret Service agent who was doing advance work for Energy Secretary Steven Chu, declined to elaborate beyond comments in The Washington Post.

“We’re not the Typhoid Mary family, for goodness sake,” he told the Post in a story published Friday. “We’ve been told that we’re not contagious. We’re already past the seven-day mark for that.”

The White House has said Griswold did not fly on Air Force One and never posed a risk to the president.

Though most U.S. cases have been relatively mild and have not required a doctor’s visit, U.S. precautions include shipping millions of doses of anti-flu drugs to states in case they’re needed, replenishing the U.S. strategic stockpile with millions more treatment courses, and shipping 400,000 treatment courses to Mexico.

The CDC added the following states to its list of those with confirmed cases: New Jersey with five cases, Delaware with four, Illinois with three, Colorado and Virginia with two, and Minnesota, Nebraska and Kentucky each with one.

CDC previously had confirmed cases in New York, Texas, California, South Carolina, Kansas, Massachusetts, Indiana, Ohio, Arizona, Michigan and Nevada.

Exclusive! Manohara Odelia Pinot conversation with His mother

2009-05-01T22:44:00.000-07:00

Jakarta: Case of alleged kidnapping Indonesian model Manohara Pinot by the son of Raja Kelantan, Malaysia continues scrolling. During a visit to Indonesia some time ago, the Prime Minister of Malaysia Najib Razak says Manohara Mom's, Daisy Fajarina, entry to the country. However, in a special interview with SCTV, Saturday (25 / 4), Fajarina still confess. He showed evidence of a letter-ban. He declined to enter Malaysia without a clear reason.

Manohara Pinot alleged to be stolen her own, Tengku Muhammad Fakhri, son of Raja Kelantan Malaysia. Both marriages took place in August 2008 in Malaysia. Lapse of some time after the marriage, the family Manohara never again be associated with the daughter. Fajarina said, Manohara often told the brother that he was not treated well by her husband.

Management plan wedding in India is also not so held. Thus, the family was anxious and trying different ways to be able to return back Manohara.

Fajarina Able law, Afrian Bondjol says his side have the post-complaint. Among others, through the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Embassy of the Republic of Indonesia in Malaysia, to the National Commission on Human Rights and Woman. He expects the response from the government. In addition, the legal action will come more, especially in the case of alleged persecution, violence and tyranny made Fakhri. See The Video ....

Beautiful Model Manohara Odelia Pinot suspected rapt Prince Sultanate of Kelantan, Malaysia, Prince Tengku Muhammad Fakhry ago in March, had a conversation with his mother to Daisy Fajriana over the phone. During the discussion Manohara crying to his mother.

Mother of Manohara Pinot, artist and model who is allegedly the son of the king rapt Kelantan Malaysia complain to the National Commission on Human Rights. Daisy Fajarina ask Komnas HAM bridge the communication with Malaysia in order to return immediately to the heart fruit.

Daisy suddenly fell unconscious after the daughter's alleged abduction. Manohara rapt suspected her husband, Tengku Muhammad Fakhri, the son of the King of Malaysia Kelantan. There is a family issue, Manohara create the model used to work as suspected by their parents rapt.

This issue must be carriaged carefully because the problems in the family. Komnas HAM says the data-collecting data and will communicate with the Malaysian side to see if there is violation of human rights or domestic violence. (FRI / Don Vito Samartha)

Swine Flu Q&A

2009-04-30T09:37:00.000-07:00

A new strain of swine flu that has killed 149 and sickened nearly 2,000 in Mexico has spread to the United States and is raising fears of a possible pandemic. Learn more about the disease and why it is causing concern among health officials.

What is it?

Swine influenza is a respiratory disease of pigs first isolated in swine in 1930, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. The illness is caused by four different type A influenza strains that can cause outbreaks in pigs, though subtypes H1N1 and H3N2 seem to be more common. The death rate among pigs is low, with most infections occurring in the late fall and winter.

Symptoms of infected pigs include fever, depression, coughing (barking), sneezing, difficulty breathing, red or inflamed eyes, lack of appetite and discharge from the nose or eyes.

How do people get infected?

Human infection happens intermittently, with most cases occurring when patients have direct contact with pigs. But cases of an infected person transmitting the swine flu to others have also been documented, says the CDC. (A 1988 outbreak in pigs in Wisconsin led to multiple human infections, and there was evidence that a patient transmitted the virus to health care workers.)

About one case of swine flu in humans is reported to the CDC every one to two years, but from December 2005 through February 2009, 12 cases were reported to the agency. According to WebMD.com, 11 of those people had direct or indirect contact with infected pigs.

Human-to-human infections do occur similar to the way the human seasonal flu virus is transmitted — through coughing, sneezing and coming in contact with a person or object with the virus.

People cannot become infected by eating pork or pork products. Cooking pork to an internal temperature of 160 degrees Fahrenheit kills the virus as well as other bacteria, notes the CDC.

How is it diagnosed?

A respiratory specimen must be collected within the first four to five days of illness, when the infected person is most likely to be shedding the virus. However, some patients (such as children), may shed the virus for 10 days or longer, according to the CDC. Specimens must be sent to the CDC for laboratory testing in order to identify swine flu.

How is it treated?

Four antiviral drugs are licensed to treat the disease in the U.S.: amantadine, rimantadine, oseltamivir and zanamivir. Most of the viruses are susceptible to all four, but the CDC currently recommends oseltamivir or zanamivir to treat and prevent swine flu infections. The antivirals, which are prescription medicines, should be taken as soon as possible symptoms appear.

Tamiflu (the trade name for oseltamivir) and Relenza (the trade name for zanamivir) are effective against the new strain when taken early, says the CDC.

There is currently no human vaccine for swine flu, but the flu vaccine may provide some protection against the H3N2 strain, though not the H1N1 strain.

Shaheen Jafargholi - Britain’s Got Talent - Show 2

2009-04-28T06:46:00.000-07:00

A 12-YEAR-OLD boy who was almost kicked off a TV talent show is the best pop singer judge Simon Cowell has seen in years.

Auditioning on reality series Britain's Got Talent, schoolboy Shaheen Jafargholi upset Cowell with his version of Amy Winehouse's song Valerie.

After singing a few lines Cowell stopped him, saying, "You got this really wrong."

He asked angel-faced Jafargholi if he could sing anything else and he nominated Michael Jackson's Who's Loving You.

His rendition prompted a shocked response from the crowd and the judges, who all gave him a standing ovation.

Cowell said he was the best young pop singer he had seen in ten years, while fellow judge Amanda Hooton compared him to former contestant Paul Potts.

"Since the day I was born I have always wanted to sing," Jafargholi said, The Daily Mail reported.

"I would love to be a big recording artist. I would love to be as famous as Michael Jackson."

He said he "felt so special and blessed" when Cowell gave him a second chance.

Jafargholi, from Swansea in Wales, said he had to persuade his mother he wasn't too young to take part in the audition.

His performance drew 13 million viewers in Britain, making it the most watched TV show of the year.

It follows the headline-making appearance by 47-year-old Scottish virgin Susan Boyle on the show last week, who was such a sensation she has been invited onto The Oprah Winfrey Show.

Boyle's idol, singer Elaine Paige, has offered to do a duet with the Scot, The Sun reports.

See The Video Click Here

Because of the magical television production straight from the mind of Simon Cowell. Now, I am not out to take away from the talent of Susan or Shaheen. They both deserve the stage they've been given. But don't think for a second we'd be as behind each of them if they had simply auditioned, done well, and moved on. Without the unbeatable odds, the unlikely backstories, and the swelling music playing during the judges glowing reviews . . . it would be simply another audition on another television show.

If we hadn't known what we knew about Susan going in, would we have cared quite as much? What if she'd said nothing about living at home with Pebbles or never having been kissed? What if we didn't know her mother had recently passed? Would we have felt quite so satisfied with ourselves for not judging her harshly or underestimating her for her looks?

What if Simon had never heard Shaheen sing before the audition and never given him a second shot? What if the producers hadn't told him to bring two backing tracks? What if he auditioned with 'Valerie' and did an okay job and that was that? There would be no magic moments perfectly packaged into six minute Internet-ready clips, and all we would have are two normal looking people who can sing really, really well.

What's so bad about that? Nothing. But, when thinking of the bottom line, the pounds in Simon's pockets, why not take the unlikely and make it look impossible - creating heroes in the process and a worldwide audience clamoring to purchase their cds, concert tickets, and memorabilia. After all, these new superstars slayed the horrible dragon, they "beat Simon Cowell" - the man the world loves to hate, and for that alone they deserve accolades, no?

I personally love the setup. It makes the delivery so much better to watch. Like a well-rehearsed play or a carefully layed out fireworks display, the right timing - the correct staging - can make a moment so much better. But, next time you watch the Susan Boyle clip or young Mr. Shaheen Jafargholi down below, take a moment to thank Simon Cowell and his production talents for the emotions you feel welling up inside.

But then remember he's a jerk and get back to loving Susan and Shaheen or whichever contestant it is on any of his many, many talent shows.

Swine Flu, Israel Do Not Use Term "Flu Pigs"

2009-04-28T04:16:00.000-07:00

Israel Do Not Use Term "Flu Pigs"

Jerusalem - The whole world called flu pigs (swine flu). But a senior Israeli officials is about to change these terms flu pigs. The goal, that does not mention the name of the animal that is declared off-limits for Jews.

"We will use the term Mexican flu that does not need to mention the word pig," said Vice Minister of Health of Israel Yakov Litz's ultra-religious party United Torah Judaism as mentioned by daily News.com.au, Tuesday (28/4/2009).

Eating pork forbidden in Judaism, religion of the majority of citizens of Israel. Similar restrictions apply in Islam.

Israel has not been confirmed cases of swine flu that has killed more than 100 people in Mexico and has spread to the U.S. and Europe. However, a man aged 26 years Israel is being treated in hospital after returning from Mexico. Israeli authorities are still awaiting test results to ascertain whether he was infected swine flu virus or not.

A man of Israel who recently returned from Mexico have been quarantined on Monday, 27 April local time. Quarantined after he examined himself to the hospital because of sore throat complain, one of the symptoms of swine flu.

From Detiknews

Susan Boyle, Singer 'gobsmacked' by overnight stardom; YouTube video has 15 million views

2009-04-18T15:59:00.000-07:00

"I'm gobsmacked, absolutely gobsmacked," she told CNN Friday morning.

Overnight singing sensation Susan Boyle says she's overwhelmed by the attention coming her way through millions of views on YouTube.

"I'm gobsmacked, absolutely gobsmacked," she told CNN Friday morning.

The 47-year-old shocked and inspired the audience, judges and Web watchers after she powered through "I Dreamed a Dream" from the musical "Les Miserables" on the TV show "Britain's Got Talent."

A clip of Boyle's performance had more than 15 million views on YouTube by Friday, and the world's media have beaten a path to her door in Blackburn, West Lothian, Scotland.

"I'm enjoying every second of it," she said of her sudden fame, but said it won't change her.

"I wouldn't want to change myself too much, because that would make things a bit false," she told CNN's "American Morning." "I want people to see the real me, the real person." Video Watch Boyle sing a cappella on "American Morning" »

In an earlier interview with CNN's Anderson Cooper, Boyle insisted she's still the same humble girl next door.

"I keep my feet firmly planted on the ground, because you have to," she said.

Her performance seems to have given "I Dreamed a Dream" a new life of its own. The song shot up to 39 on the iTunes chart of top downloaded songs by Thursday night.

While she said she's the same person -- the shy girl who has never been kissed -- it's clear that Boyle's life is already changing.

Sitting in her home, insisting her life remains the same normal life, with her same basic routine, one can't help but notice the piles of fan mail and cards from well-wishers.

And then comes a knock on the door. Throngs of fans shrieking at her doorstep are begging for her autograph. Watch Boyle sing for "AC360°"

Boyle says the experience has humbled her, but she's also still in shock and overwhelmed by her overnight stardom.

"The way everyone seems to have embraced me," Boyle responds, when asked what has been the most surprising change since her appearance. "The way they seem to have apparently fallen in love with me." Video Watch Boyle's singing wow the world »

The singer acknowledged she noticed the initial snickers when she got on stage for her performance. But she didn't let it get to her. If nothing else, it fueled her motivation.

"I just thought mentally I'll show them, so I did," she said. "If people are cynical, you try and win them 'round and it worked. It must have been a miracle, but it worked."

Boyle still has a long way to go, though -- having just won through to the second round after judge Simon Cowell described her first performance as "extraordinary."

If she can make her way through the show's final rounds, she will get to sing for Queen Elizabeth II at the Royal Variety Show.

Boyle has promised to be on her best behavior if she wins the right to sing for her.

"Whatever comes my way, I am ready. It would be lovely to sing for the queen. There would be less of the carry on from me, and more of the singing. Video Watch Boyle tell CNN 'it must have been a miracle' »

"She is a very regal lady, very nice, so I would be nice too, and just get up there and give it a bit of wellie [try]," Boyle told the show's Web site.

Boyle said she was trying to take her newfound fame in her stride.

"It's a challenge. Life is a challenge sometimes but this is different. And I like to test myself.

"If it all gets too much and they lock me up, I want a great big strait-jacket with spots on it. A pink one... and a big zip on the back so I can escape."

Cowell is reportedly already trying to piece together a record deal for Boyle, an unemployed charity worker, who lives with her cat, Pebbles. Buy Boyle says she's not focusing on any of that -- yet. She's spending her time focusing on the current competition.

But for Boyle's fans, the album cannot come quick enough.

CNN has been inundated with hundreds of messages of support for Boyle.

Simone said: "I've been so depressed all day but hearing this woman sing and reading her story gave me a pick-me-up... I look forward to hearing more of her and I hope to buy her CD as soon as it hits the shelves."

Cynthia wanted Cowell to move quickly.

"She brought tears to my eyes and a lump in my throat. I hope Simon does get her a record contract...I'll buy her CD. Never judge a book by its cover. Susan Boyle, you go, girl!"

Jim described Boyle's talent as "unbelievable" and "beautiful."

"I wish Susan the very best in her new life and hopefully someone has put her under contract. Thank you for such a beautiful song."

Larry wanted to offer Boyle a kiss.

"I have just heard you sing for the first time -- thanks to CNN -- and I must tell you this: You are a fabulous talent, simply amazing to me that no one took advantage of your voice and passion up until now. I am a happily married man, but if I were not, and if I was in the audience, I can guarantee you that I would ask for a kiss, and if you were gracious enough to indulge me, well that would have been one of the great highlights of my life. Looking forward to the first of many albums."
Related Post : Most Unlikely Reality TV Star

Susan Boyle, the most unlikely reality TV star ever, shocks Simon Cowell

2009-04-18T14:37:00.000-07:00

LONDON -- A middle-aged volunteer church worker with the voice of an angel is Britain's latest unlikely showbiz star.

Susan Boyle, 47, wowed judges and audience alike when she performed on television contest "Britain's Got Talent."

By Thursday, a video clip of Boyle's performance on Internet site YouTube has been watched more than 11.7 million times.

The unemployed Scot who said she'd "never been kissed" drew titters when she told the judges her ambition was to be a professional singer.

But her soaring rendition of "I Dreamed a Dream" from the musical "Les Miserables" astonished the show's hard-to-please judges.

They were captivated by the singer from Blackburn in western Scotland. Usually acerbic judge Simon Cowell dubbed her singing "extraordinary." Fellow judge Piers Morgan said her "stunning" performance was "the biggest surprise I've had in three years of this show."

The show, the first in a new series of "Britain's Got Talent," was watched by 11.4 million of Britain's 60 million people on Saturday night.

British bookmakers made Boyle the early favorite to win the series.

She is the latest in a proud tradition of underdogs who win the heart of the British public.

The program, sister show of "America's Got Talent," made a star of its first winner, an unassuming mobile phone salesman named Paul Potts. He wowed audiences with his rendition of the aria "Nessun Dorma" and has become a global recording star since winning the series - and signing to Cowell's record label - in 2007.

See The VIDEO on youtube : http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=9lp0IWv8QZY

Popular Automotive

2009-04-18T14:20:00.000-07:00

Tenerife, Canary Islands—Lamborghini injected some ferocity under the hood of the already brazen Gallardo with the refreshed LP560-4. The entry-level coupe from Sant'Agata, Italy, gained horsepower, shed unsprung mass and overall weight, and received a subtle sheet-metal makeover that gave it a contemporary edge in line with its more docile relative, the Audi R8. So, how does Lambo improve on that formula? Ditch the roof and create the 2009 Lamborghini Gallardo LP560-4 Spyder. —Basem Wasef

The Specs
The Gallardo LP560-4 coupe starts at $201,000. The Spyder version commands a staggering $224,700—and that's not counting the $10,000 eGear transmission option that now equips over 99 percent of all Gallardos, or goodies like the $26,000 matte paint and $16,450 eight-piston carbon-ceramic brakes. When brakes cost more than a Honda Fit and a paint job runs around the price of Mustang GT, it's no surprise Lamborghini President and CEO Stephan Winkelmann admits the company "hasn't been immune from the economic climate."

But even the base, out-of-the-box Gallardo LP560-4 Spyder is hooked up with some pretty sweet stuff: 5.2-liter 552 hp direct-injected V10 powerplant? Check. Aluminum space frame chassis? Yes, sir. Zero to 62 mph in 4 seconds and a top speed of 201 mph? Bring it.

The underpinnings, at least compared to other electronically over-endowed sports cars (ahem, Nissan GT-R), are relatively straightforward. The double-wishbone aluminum suspension lacks automatic adaptability. A viscous-traction all-wheel-drive system biases torque up to 70 percent between front and rear axles for optimum traction. And the eGear transmission, while effective, is still a single-clutch unit.

The fabric roof Gallardo receives chassis reinforcements including front and rear firewall beams, beefed up rocker panel pieces, and several other additions for improved stiffness. It takes four hydraulic motors and 20 seconds for the rear bonnet to lift and the canvas roof to fold flush beneath the rear decklid, which is artfully detailed with scoops and vents.

The convertible version also receives a modified exhaust system, with tweaked resonance characteristics for the sole purpose of sounding, well, perfect to an enthusiast's ear. The setup was fine-tuned by a panel of Lamborghini executives that judged different setups by listening to test vehicles drive by—fitting, considering this drop-top comes from the country that invented opera.
The Drive
The new Gallardo LP560-4 Spyder's exhaust note practically hits you over the head with a sonic boom when you fire up its 10-cylinder powerplant. The flow of combusted exhaust gases manages an aural mashup that's both shrill and throaty. And when the top is down, those acoustics become just as intoxicating as the engine's incredible thrust.

Hold the brake, click into first, and the electronic clutch does all the work—feathering power to the wheels and easing the car forward relatively smoothly. The shift engagement points aren't as seamless as a traditional, torque-converter-equipped automatic. But then again you wouldn't expect a Lambo to drive like a Lexus, would you? Automatic mode offers innocuous shifts under light to medium throttle, but gets a bit jerky when you drive aggressively. Sport will rock your head back and forth under heavy throttle, and Corsa, or Race, mode slams violently into the next ascending gear for even quicker acceleration. If you absolutely must leave the stoplight with maximum alacrity, try selecting Corsa, switching ESP off, pushing both pedals to the floor simultaneously, and listening to the V10 hold its howl at 5400 rpm. When you lift the brake, revs drop instantly and the Spyder rockets forward in a wheelspin-free bounce that feels like Optimus Prime just punted the rear bumper. Lamborghini insists the system is robust enough for numerous launches. We gave it a go or 10 on our test drive, without repercussions.

Driving from sea level to the top of the Pico de Teide volcano, the highest elevation in Spain, we encountered a multitude of hairpin turns that challenged the Spyder's chassis. Though the Lamborghini's steering is a shade less transparent and communicative than the Ferrari F430's, there's still plenty of feel throughout the cornering process. Once the front tires bite and the suspension settles, the Spyder is in its element; grip from all fours is extreme, and it takes a seriously jerky maneuver to upset the car's balance. The stability control system does a seamless job making the driver appear more talented than he might be. And that sonorous exhaust note spills onto the landscape and makes any public road sound like the Le Mans circuit.

However, the Spyder model does offer a shade less precision carving up road compared to the hardtop version. The difference is subtle. And we noticed a few phantom squeaks coming from behind the cockpit, a condition that seemed more noticeable as speeds climbed. We adjusted our seat backs, checked for loose seatbelt straps and looked for any other noise-creating gremlins, but simply couldn't find the culprit. One big tradeoff for the open-air experience is that the convertible top assembly covers up quite a bit of that beautiful amidships-mounted engine. If you're hoping to show off the powerplant's attractive topside, you'll have to settle for a small section of those long, black cylinder heads.

It's a tough time to be selling a flashy, high-dollar supercar. But even in today's disastrous global economic climate, the Gallardo LP560-4 Spyder still manages to make people smile as you drive by and rev that wonderful V10. Does Lamborghini's magic transcend our glum financial realities? Perhaps.

7 Steps To Exterminate The Conficker.DV Virus

2009-04-03T12:23:00.000-07:00

Conficker.DV Virus using the distribution method that is different from preceding. With its sophisticated, the virus tried to access the network using a slit windows 'Default Share'(ADMIN $\system32) with the administrator password.

In addition 'Conficker.DV' also create a file on removable media such as flash, hard drive and card reader to save the file hidden on the root drive.

While the action the same as preceding, that is trying to exploitate MS08-067 or Windows security cleft , Windows Server Service or SVCHOST.exe. Many users are infected because they are not activate the Automatic Updates feature and does not do windows patch MS08-067.

If you are like this, see 7 short steps of the virus analyst from Adi Saputra Vaksincom to eradicate the virus' Conficker.DV '

1. Disconnect the computer that will be cleared from the network / internet.
2. Turn off system restore (Windows XP / Vista).
3. Turn off the active virus process in the services. Use the removal tool from Norman to clean the active virus. If you do not have, can be downloaded at the site norman.
4. Delete the fake service svchost.exe on registry. You can search manually in the registry.
5. Delete Task Schedule which was created by the virus. (C: \ WINDOWS \ Tasks)
6. Remove the registry string which was created by the virus. To facilitate the registry , you can use the script below:

[Version]
Signature="$Chicago$"
Provider=Vaksincom Oyee

[DefaultInstall]
AddReg=UnhookRegKey
DelReg=del

[UnhookRegKey]
HKCU, Software\Microsoft\Windows\CurrentVersion\Explorer\Advanced,
Hidden, 0x00000001,1
HKCU, Software\Microsoft\Windows\CurrentVersion\Explorer\Advanced,
SuperHidden, 0x00000001,1
HKLM,
SOFTWARE\Microsoft\Windows\CurrentVersion\Explorer\Advanced\Folder\Hidden\SHOWALL,
CheckedValue, 0x00000001,1
HKLM, SYSTEM\CurrentControlSet\Services\BITS, Start, 0x00000002,2
HKLM, SYSTEM\CurrentControlSet\Services\ERSvc, Start, 0x00000002,2
HKLM, SYSTEM\CurrentControlSet\Services\wscsvc, Start, 0x00000002,2
HKLM, SYSTEM\CurrentControlSet\Services\wuauserv, Start, 0x00000002,2

[del]
HKCU, Software\Microsoft\Windows\CurrentVersion\Applets, dl
HKCU, Software\Microsoft\Windows\CurrentVersion\Applets, ds
HKLM, SOFTWARE\Microsoft\Windows\CurrentVersion\Applets, dl
HKLM, SOFTWARE\Microsoft\Windows\CurrentVersion\Applets, ds
HKLM, SYSTEM\CurrentControlSet\Services\Tcpip\Parameters, TcpNumConnections

Use the notepad, then save with the name 'repair.inf', then 'Save As Type' to 'All Files' so that the error does not occur. Repair.inf run with the right click, then select install.

Meanwhile, for the active file on startup, you can disable it through 'msconfig' atau can manually delete the string: 'HKLM, SOFTWARE\Microsoft\Windows\CurrentVersion\Run

7. For cleaning the virus W32/Conficker.DV optimally and prevent re-infection, you should use and update anti-virus that is able to detect this virus with both your computer and the patch with the official patch from Microsoft to prevent re-infection.

Be careful! Your Yahoo Messenger is seized by people

2009-03-19T10:41:00.000-07:00

DO NOT dally if you want your Yahoo "taken by" other people. Techniques that are raiding accounts popularity at this time is through phishing is assigned through Yahoo Messenger.

Phishing is basically the message, but essentially ordinary court to the victim to click a specific site address. Most often is the message that your friend's new upload photos. Some of the addresses at this time mostly used, among other picz.com www.holiday-or summer-picz.com. However, the carrier can make spam a new address at any time and pass it on.

Addresses had been prepared to entice the victim so that the voluntary and without realizing the wealth in this case following your Yahoo password. Never enter your Yahoo Email and Password for your YM account you will be immediately known.

Yahoo Account once you know, technically, a lot of dangerous things that can be done without you. Such as sending phishing, SPAM, email scandal to change the data owner's account. Especially if you have access to valuable account in your YM as administrator mailinglist with a large number of members, products, accounts and other Yahoo.

A number of sites or traps forgery is easily identified and it is not new. Firefox browser even has features to provide a warning for sites with forgery red icon and the police. Unfortunately, Internet Explorer and Safari do not have this feature. So, the only way avoid exposure suit should not enter your Yahoo password to other sites.

Social engineering

All the misguided people at risk to go to snare it. Can be inaccurate because the suspect visited the site the site is owned by Yahoo. However, often the main reason is because upon the recipient thinks the message is sent that you have contacts in Yahoo Messenger.

Of course, you believe that your friend may not harm you with the rope to your phishing site. So if you receive a message like the above, do not riot prior to your friend. This is social engineering which used actors.

The problem, YM message is apparently not sent by your friend, but because Yahoo Account has been known and used to send messages to all contacts lead to click a link that opens a web page that asks for Yahoo Mail and password.

The only way to remove this "spam" is immediately ask your friends to replace Yahoo Password. Without change, spam messages will be sent to hold everywhere. It is also important to check carefully whether the data support the account in accordance with still Yahoo himself. If it is still appropriate, may be Yahoo account is still safe to use.

But if you was-was, to change your Yahoo account with the new and do not forget to complete your Yahoo login with the "Sign in Seal" and always look at the Yahoo address each time you enter a username and password.

Legal but underhanded

Did your Yahoo account takeovers was legal, perpetrators are legitimate companies that are domiciled in Panama. This means the legal owner of a Yahoo account is trapped by phishing can not sue.

Apparently TP Ltd, a company which is the mastermind of all this, using the underhand social weaknesses of the Internet users. The author describes the site Terms and Conditions which states that our Yahoo account allows companies to use your account to send ads via either email or through instant messenger.

That is not less interesting, game companies have online internet popular in Indonesia with hundreds of thousands of members using the service users appeared to TP Ltd. The company is using the services to distribute game ad

source: tekno.kompas.com

THE RIGHT APPROACH TO FIGHT CANCER

2009-03-19T09:48:00.000-07:00

Under weakly alkaline condition, cancerous cells are not able to grow, or even to survive.

These are real cases which are very important. Please read patiently and pass this on. Even if you had read it, you should read it again, especially the list of acidic and alkaline food stuff. It's best to read it several times and remember them. Please read this article in full patience. It helps to improve and maintain your health.

About 30 years ago, a Mr. Zhang who worked in the Public Sales Department of a Taipei Brewery, sat for Overseas Study Selection Examination, and passed with flying colours. Before leaving, unfortunately, the medical examination at a public hospital discovered that he had a tumour growth in his lung about the size of a child's fist. Thus, he was not able to make the overseas trip for further study.

Mr. Zhang was very disappointed. He had the feeling that the diagnosis could be wrong. So he went for a 2nd check-up in another hospital but the result confirmed that there was no error in the previous diagnosis. The young Mr. Zhang was in great despair after the confirmation. He made several calls to Mr. Wei, his old classmate who was the Mayor's secretary of Huangsun County, Taidong County Government.

On hearing the sad news, Mr. Wei rushed to Taipei to see Mr. Zhang on Sunday. Mr. Zhang briefed Mr. Wei in detail about his despair and pessimism, and entrusted his friend regarding his affairs after his death. It happened that Mr. Wei was a good friend of Dr Lu Geling, who in 1949-55 was in charge of the Maijie Hospital, and was a researcher and specialist in cancer.

He suggested to Mr. Zhang to seek Dr Lu's treatment immediately. Mr. Zhang initially refused to consult doctor anymore as the result might add further misery to him. But Mr. Wei said that he had called Dr Lu and made an appointment with him. So Mr. Zhang felt obligated and went with Mr. Wei to meet Dr Lu.

When meeting Mr. Zhang, Dr Lu said: " Mr. Wei is my best friend and he has introduced you to me. We are fated to know each other. Let me ask you do you know why is that cancer is referred to as terminal illness?" Both Mr. Zhang and Mr. Wei did not know how to answer.

Dr Lu explained: " There are only 2 approaches so far to treat cancer today. The 1st is to destroy the source of the disease. The 2nd is to increase the immunity to fight the disease. But the strange thing is that, whether we use Cobalt 60 or other drugs to destroy the cancerous cells, before they are killed, the good cells are destroyed first. On the other hand, no matter what nutrients or supplements we use, before the good cells have a chance to absorb them, the cancer cells have taken them up. This simply speeds up the growth of cancer. Therefore, both approaches are doomed to fail, that is why cancer is terminal."

Dr Lu continues: "Human beings are the most intelligent creatures and they had successfully put men on the moon. But why there is no one ever questioned the above 2 approaches for cancer treatment which lead to ultimate death, and try to look for a 3rd approach? When I was conducting clinical research in Majie Hospital, I had many opportunities to work with many colleagues who had assisted me in the hospital. I found out that the blood tests of cancer patients showed 100% acidic results.

Those Buddhist monks and nuns who are long term vegetarians and live very close to Nature, their blood are prevalently weakly alkaline and none of them has yet been detected of any cancer illness. Therefore, I can boldly concluded that under weakly alkaline condition, cancerous cells are not able to grow, or even to survive.

Mr. Zhang, I would suggest that starting from now you must reduce your intake of the acidic meaty dishes. Consume more alkaline food. Also you can take green algae and soup made from water chestnuts with skin. Modify your physical condition, and try seriously to have a regular life style which is close to Nature. If you live for another 5 years, you should have no further problem. Best of luck."

Mr. Zhang followed Dr Lu's suggestion and was serious in changing his eating habits. Every day, he ate green algae, drank chestnut soup, became optimistic and did an appropriate amount of exercise. One year later, he went back to the same public hospital for a check up. It was found that the tumour not only did not increase in size, but was also skrinking. It's a miracle to the hospital staff who examined him. Five years later, the tumour had shrunk to almost disappearing stage. Now after almost 40 years, Mr. Zhang's health is totally normal, and is living a very pleasant life.

After Mr. Zhang's case, a Mr. Chen Tianshou, who was previously Head of the General Administration of the Taidong Provincial Hospital, was also diagnosed with lung cancer. When Mr. Wei knew about it, he told Mr. Chen what Mr. Zhang had gone through. Mr. Chen started to follow Dr Lu's recommendation of changing his physical condition. Just like the case of Mr. Zhang, he was able to recover fully from the cancer.

At that time, Dr. Lu and his family had migrated to the United States. When he returned to Taiwan and met up with Mr. Wei, he was told of the 2 cases of Mr. Zhang and Mr. Chen. Mr. Wei suggested that let both of them make detailed briefings in person, so that Dr. Lu could publish a report on this self-curing method.

Dr Lu very humbly replied: 'I am too old and I do not have any clinical records of the cases. Please tell your friends and relatives, if they agree, please continue and spread the words to others"

One should take care of oneself and also should be caring about others. 85% of cancer patients are having acidic condition in their physical bodies.

Blood of healthy persons is weakly alkaline in nature, with a pH of about 7.35 to 7.45.

>Babies' blood is also weakly alkaline.

As adults age, their bloods become more acidic in nature.

According to a study of body fluid of 600 cancer patients, 85% of the patients are in acidic physical condition. Therefore, how to maintain the weakly alkaline nature of our body is the 1st step from keeping oneself from illness.

Acidic physical condition manifests itself in following ways:

1. Skin without luster.
2. Athlete's foot.
3. Feeling tired even after a little exercise, and feeling sleepy the moment one gets into a bus.
4. Easily out of breathe after going up and down the stairs.
5. Fat and with lower stomach protruding,
6. Move slowly and movement lethargic.

Why does the body physical condition turn acidic?

1. Excessive intake of dairy acidic food..

a) Meats, dairy products, eggs, beef, ham, etc are acidic food

b) Taking too much acidic food will cause the blood to become acidic and viscous,
difficult to flow to the end of blood vessels, leading to cold feet or knee, stiff shoulders and insomnia.

c) For those who are young and strong, it's alright to consume suitable quantity of meats, but for older people, vegetables or small fishes are the more suitable diet.

2. Any irregularity in the pace of life will cause the body physical condition to become acidic.

a) Irregular pace in life will lead to mental and physical stress

b) According to statistics, people who sleep late are more likely to have cancer than normal persons, by as much as 5 times.

c) Human beings originally lead a life with regular tempo in this world. It's not possible to store up sleep or food and not possible to live a healthy life by mixing up days and nights.

d) Human organs are controlled by the autonomic nerves. During day time it is mainly sympathetic nerves activities, and at night it is mainly the parasympathetic nerves which are functioning. If this order is disturbed and reversed, then will encounter all sorts of sicklnesses.

3. Over tensed becoming emotional.

a) Social stresses in view of civilized society.

b) Job related or mental stresses.

>c) For a person suffering mental stress, a temporary release of stress may lead to death. This is known as the syndrome of imperfect adrenal cortex function.

4. Physical Stress.

a) Before any operation it would be necessary to check whether the renal cortex does function normally. If the adrenal cortex is lacking, or if the stress imposed by the operation exceeded the ability of adrenal cortex to cope, it could lead to death or other adverse impacts.

b) If the patient's face is puffy, it would be necessary to ask for the detailed patient's medical history and medication status. For patients taking adrenal cortical hormone, extra care should be exercised when acupuncture treatment is given.

c) Avoid stress due to physical labour or excessive exercise, or playing card games and driving through out the night etc.

Appendix: Acidity/alkalinity of Common food stuff

1. Strongly acidic food: egg yolk, cheese, cake baked with white sugar or persimmon, mullet fish roe, dried cod, etc.
2. Mildly acidic food: ham, bacon, chicken meat, squid, pork, eel, beef, bread, wheat, butter, horse meat.

3. Weakly acidic food: white rice, peanut, beer, alcohol, fried tofu, sea weeds, clam, octopus, catfish, etc.
4. Weakly alkaline food: red bean, radish, apple, cabbage, onion, tofu etc.
5. Mildly alkaline food: dried radish, soya bean, carrot, tomato, banana, orange, pumpkin, strawberry, egg white, dried plum, lemon, spinach, etc.
6. Strongly alkaline food: grape, tea leave, wine, kelp sprout, kelp, etc. Especially natural green algae which contain rich quantity of chlorophyl are very good alkaline health food, but avoid drinking tea in excess, and it's best to drink in the mornings.
It's a Blessing to you if you pass this on! Thank you. Good Bless You!

(source: http://maxloh-something2share.blogspot.com/2008/10/right-approach-to-fight-cancer.html)

Tips Choosing a Smartphone or PDA Phone

2009-03-17T10:07:00.000-07:00

Various manufacturers smartphone and PDA phone-race competition to market their products. There is work with service providers to create exclusive network to be able to chat and send e-mail easily. There are also embed a variety of events such as 3.5G technology that can access data on the Internet or send e-mail with high speed. Some manufacturers embed the Global Positioning Satellite, or GPS integrated with maps in their products so that people can not be lost on any of them are.

Basically, smartphone or PDA phone is a communication tool or a mobile phone equipped with a digital organizer. This device can also function as a data organizer, e-mail client, web browser, music player, movie player, digital camera, GPS, edit documents, and other functions.

What difference PDA phone and Smartphone?

In fact both of them almost similar. PDA phone, which is short for Personal Digital Assistant Phone is a development of the PDA can also be used as a phone. PDA itself was originally created as a mini computer that functions as a digital organizer and easy to carry everywhere. However, in further development, the function is added in the PDA phone, so known by the name of PDA phone.

On the development of the smartphone is a mobile phone which is then added features and other facilities so that a smart phone and called a smartphone. If compared, almost no differences between the PDA phone and smartphone.

Tips Choosing a PDA phone or Smartphone

Here are some tips and advice before you decide to change your mobile phone with a smartphone or PDA phone.

# Mobile Network

If you often travel to foreign countries and to the outside of the city, choose the smartphone with GSM network and CDMA is not. Because overseas, you can buy prepaid cards to install on your smartphone. You can also use the network of the roaming service provider. But if you're more in the country, you can use alternative networks such as CDMA.

# Operating System (Operating System)

Available at this time the various operating systems (operating system) for the smartphone. Some of the Symbian, Windows Mobile, Android, Linux, Palm OS, and BlackBerry. Each has its own advantages and special functions. Check carefully with the functions which are the most suitable and most often you use. Almost all of the operating system can perform basic functions such as phone, e-mail, web, and SMS / MMS. However, there are some that are specific, such as the BlackBerry is capable of connecting to the server e-mail and chat servers belonging to specific BlackBerry. If you often use products like Microsoft Windows and Microsoft Office, you can choose the device with the Windows Mobile operating system so that you are more used to using it.

# Speed Data (Download Speed)

Speed data can also be special for you who often take the data on the Internet or send data via e-mail. Some smartphone offers 3G data speeds up to HSDPA (High Speed Downlink Package Access) or 3.5G is 7 times the speed reaches the speed 3G. In the CDMA network is also known as EV-DO. If you subscribe to packet-based time, the high-speed data, the cheaper your bill balance because the download time much faster. Speed data from the lowest to the highest, namely (in the GSM network): GPRS, EDGE, 3G, 3.5G (HSDPA).

# WiFi function

If you are in the area that provide free hotspot, then consider buying a smartphone that has WiFi facilities. With this facility, you can connect to the Internet without burdening your credit bills. This function is not recommended for smartphone has been given the mobile network that offers broadband Internet speed, such as 3.5G and EV-DO.

# QWERTY keypad

Some smartphone is equipped with a QWERTY keypad the keypad layout is similar to the order of letters letters on the keyboard your computer or laptop. This facility is easier to type on the user's smartphone rather than using a numeric keypad or a number. If you type often, you use a suitable QWERTY keypad. But if you simply call, read your e-mail and browsing, numeric keypad or the numbers are still appropriate for you.

# Connectivity (Connectivity)

Make sure you can move data on the smartphone to the media or other devices easily. For example, you have to take a picture or portrait that is quite a lot in your smartphone, and want to move to a computer or laptop, or print to your printer. Of course you need the link to the other device such as a data cable, USB or via Bluetooth. Therefore, make sure that one or more facilities to connect other devices available in the smartphone that you will buy.

# Memory

Check if the amount of internal memory that is available to make your data needs. If you feel less, check whether the smartphone also has a slot for external memory to accommodate data-your data.

# Display (Display)

If the document you often do in your smartphone, then choose the screen size (display) is great. A larger screen make it easier for you and comfortable in the process and do your document. However, should remember is that the size of the big screen will make the device more baterry needed. In addition, also consider the depth of color that is displayed. The greater color depth, then the displayed image will be more beautiful.

# Applications

You can also check applications (software) are included in the smartphone. If you frequently prepare documents, whether the application has been in office (office suite), such as word processing, spreadsheet and other applications. Or if you're happy listening to music or watching movies, whether it is available the application of good entertainment in it.

# Connection Company (Corporate Connection)

If you are assigned to provide smartphone to employees in your company consider the smartphone can be integrated with the system in your company. BlackBerry is used for many employees of company because of the compatibility to integrate with e-mail system and server in the company.

# After Sales Service

Make sure you buy a smartphone through a distributor that has after-sales service is clear. Because of the many features of a smartphone, of course you need after sales support as a good warranty, product training, software updates and improvements.

# Ensure More

Make sure that before deciding to buy products with the smartphone to ask questions following the self:

* Will comfortably held device?
* Is the display screen is clearly visible?
* What is the price the device is still reasonable for me?
* What is the key and the keypad easy to use?

Smartphone or PDA phone is not cheap goods. Therefore, when you want to buy the device, you must choose carefully as you need. If your primary need to listen to music, watching movies, or play games, then you should just buy the HP with the function of entertainment. However, if you frequently use the Internet, working with various documents, schedule and require the organizer, then you should choose the product smartphone or PDA phone. A smartphone can do many things to ease your life.

Umang Island

2009-02-14T12:00:00.000-08:00

"Want to vacation on the island of white sand and comfortable? Umang Island might become an option. This island is located in the south Ujungkulon, Banten Indonesia. To reach this island you must go by boat that has been provided. This boat trip is only about 5 minutes because the distance is not far away. This island provides the things that interest us for the holidays."

While the pier to the island, we will see that pasirnya white and blue sea. The beautiful coastal scenery, so this place can also be used in an image prewedding. When up in the lobby, you will be greeted with welcome drinks in the form of juice and the fresh wet towel. Very refreshing after a trip that should take about 5 hours from Jakarta. Manager also provides transportation from when we are reluctant to use their own vehicle.

On the island there is a resort or villa. Suite is very comfortable place overnight. Each villa divided 2 large with the same door as. Room equipped with sofa, we can create more time to enjoy the gathering in this room. Rural-style bathroom, with a clay ornament of a natural experience. On the top floor, there is a bed that is very romantic with the top of the glass, so that we can see the stars at night.

This island is not large, only the area of 5 hectares, but the facilities available are complete enough for the fun and play water sports, you can play jet ski, banana boat, or snorkeling. There is also a swimming pool which is bordered by the beach, while swimming so we can also enjoy the beautiful beach. Finished swimming, jacuzzi available to squeeze the body stiff. When you're happy to sit relax, there are also spa packages, where we can enjoy a massage with aromatherapy deburan hear the waves.

Waters in this island there is still a lot of fish. Near the pier, we can see the collection of the fish groups. This could be the place for you to have a hobby of fishing. For children, there are also various games for children such as swing, trombolin, etc..
Umang Island Resort

We can also relax in the gazebo located in front of each place we stay suites and is located right on the beach. The ideal place to enjoy the sunrise or sunset. When dinner romantic atmosphere you can get if you want to eat by the beach while you hear the sound waves. Or can be also in the cafe while listening to songs that strain by performers.

Umang near the island, there are islands Oar. This island has not been too managed and still very natural. Various types of shellfish are still many in this place. To go to this place, we can use a fishing boat from Umang Island provided.

As a gift or keepsake, there are also many shops that sell souvenirs such as T-shirt or hat that have logo Umang Island. There are also display of shells and some key. The price offered is not too expensive, so will not drain our pockets.

Umang Island is a suitable place for honeymoon, holiday or family outing. However, travel to the island that are still not comfortable. In addition to the far distance, the road that must be passed and zigzag up and down. Streets are still quiet, and only for 2 vehicles. So you should be careful in the way.

ALL ABOUT THE DERBY MILAN

2009-02-14T11:47:00.000-08:00

The tradition: in the derby games played in February, how the Rossoneri foreigners scored, how the historic Milan captains greeted the derby, the importance of the abscenses and the great numbers of Maldini and Shevchenko.

MILAN - Here are some curiosities ahead of the upcoming derby games.

Inter-Milan will be played on Sunday evening, February 15 2009. Here in the last 50 years, all of the derby games played in this month:

Inter-Milan 0-1, February 27 2005, scorer: Kakà
Milan-Inter 3-2, February 21 2004, scorers: Stankovic, Zanetti, Tomasson, Kakà, Seedorf
Milan-Inter 1-1, February 18 1968. scorers: Cappellini, Hamrin
Inter-Milan 1-1, February 24 1963, scorers: Mazzola, Sani
Milan-Inter 0-2, February 4 1962, scorers: Morbello, Suarez
Milan-Inter 2-2, February 23 1958, scorers: Lorenzi, C.Galli. Mariani, Masiero

With all probability, the next derby will be the last one played by Paolo Maldini, Rossoneri's captain who will be part of history. These are latest derbies played by the other historic Milan captains after world war 2:

Nils Liedholm: Inter-Milan 1-2, March 26 1961
Cesare Maldini: Milan-Inter 1-2, April 3 1966
Gianni Rivera: Milan-Inter 0-0, March 12 1978
Franco Baresi: Inter-Milan 3-1, March 13 1997

With all probability, the next derby game will be played by Milan without Kaka. These are the latest derby games with a great great or significant absence of Milan:

March 3 2002 - absent Inzaghi - Milan-Inter 0-1
February 27 2005 - absent Shevchenko - Inter-Milan 0-1
February 21 2004 - absent Maldini - Milan-Inter 3-2

Milan has in its squad this year the number one in terms of derbies, Paolo Maldini with 55 appearances and the number one top-scorer in activity: Andriy Shevchenko, 14 goals in the clashes against Inter.
Who's Gonna Win This Week??

Adrenaline

2009-02-14T11:29:00.000-08:00

We find out exactly what is coursing through your veins

Back to school
Have you ever wished you’d listened more in biology classes? Chances are the answer is a firm no, given that at the time it seemed more fun to scribble obscenities on your neighbour’s desk, but I bet that all those poor souls who have wasted years pondering on the source of the philosopher’s stone will be kicking themselves when they find out that the secret of life has been swimming in our blood since time began.

You see, the unsung hero that kept every single one of your ancestors alive long enough to procreate, is a little hormone called adrenaline.

This hormone, which threw many a lifeline to hunter-gatherers, was responsible for our family trees, but our increasingly stressful and sedentary lives means that instead of fighting lions we are battling with our email demons and building up levels of adrenaline that could be harmful to our sometimes lazy bodies.

What is adrenaline?

Adrenaline, known as the fight or flight hormone, is an early evolutionary adaptation allowing us to cope with dangerous and unexpected situations. Naturally produced in high-stress or physically exhilarating situations, adrenaline is released from the adrenal glands (located on top of each kidney) into the bloodstream, and rapidly prepares the body for action.
What causes it?
Several factors such as life-endangering situations, high-intensity exercise and fatigue, can precipitate the release of adrenaline. And although the hormone increases energy and productivity, excessive amounts in the bloodstream can also have a detrimental effect on the body, such as fat build-up and insomnia. Not ideal for health-conscious workaholics.
What happens when it’s released?
When released into the bloodstream, the hormone boosts the supply of oxygen and glucose to the brain and muscles, while suppressing other non-emergency bodily processes (digestion in particular). With dilated blood vessels and air passages, the body is able to pass more blood to the muscles and get more oxygen into the lungs, thereby increasing physical performance for short bursts of time.

In addition to this, the muscles of the iris contract to allow the pupils to expand, so not only can you think more clearly, but you can see more clearly too. All of these effects prepare the body for the surge of energy needed to flee from dangers of the wild, namely starving lions and bitter exes.
How much is too much?
Scientists have shown that because of the dangers of too much adrenaline, it is vital to 'work off' some of the hormone that has been released into your system.

While our ancestors handled this naturally through fighting or other physical exertion, in our world, high-stress situations often arise that involve little more physical activity than pressing ‘send’ on an email, so we must resort to exercise to dissipate adrenaline tensions.
How can we work it off?
Dr Matthew Watt, Honorary Senior Fellow at St Vincent’s Hospital, Australia has shown that regular physical exercise effectively gets rid of the adrenaline accumulated during stress by metabolising any excess in the bloodstream, which means, we’ll have to take a leaf out of our ancestor’s book and exert ourselves just a little harder in order to add another branch to our family trees.

Microsoft bounty for worm creator

2009-02-14T10:01:00.001-08:00

A reward of $250,000 (£172,000) has been offered by Microsoft to find who is behind the Downadup/Conficker virus.

Since it started circulating in October 2008 the Conficker worm has managed to infect millions of computers worldwide.

The software giant is offering the cash reward because it views the Conficker worm as a criminal attack.

"People who write this malware have to be held accountable," said George Stathakopulos, of Microsoft's Trustworthy Computing Group.

He told BBC News the company was "not prepared to sit back and let this kind of activity go unchecked".

"Our message is very clear - whoever wrote this caused significant pain to our customers and we are sending a message that we will do everything we can to help with your arrest," said Mr Stathakopulos.

Arbor Networks said as many as 12 million computers could be affected globally by Conficker/Downadup since it began prowling the web looking for vulnerable machines to infect in October.

Malicious payload

The Conficker worm is a self-replicating program that takes advantage of networks or computers that have not kept up to date with Windows security patches.

It can infect machines via a net connection or by hiding on USB memory drives used to ferry data from one computer to another. Once in a computer it digs deep, setting up defences that make it hard to extract.
USB drives, BBC
The worm can also spread via USB flash drives.

The worm slithers through networks by guessing usernames and passwords. Security specialists recommend hardening passwords by mixing in numbers, punctuation marks and capital letters.

The virus reports in to its creators for updates by visiting a web domain. It generates the name of the domain itself using a complicated code which security firms have cracked to track the growth of the worm and block its progress.

Malware such as Downadup can be triggered to steal data or turn control of infected computers over to malicious hackers which pool them into larger armies of so-called botnets.

These networks of compromised machines can be used to send spam, as dead drops for stolen or pirated data and to launch attacks on other machines.

Although Downadup is widespread its creators have yet to activate its payload to steal data or launch other attacks.

It has caused costly headaches for network administrators dealing with users locked out of their accounts when the worm correctly guesses a password.

While Microsoft says it does not know the intention of the worm's creator, it wants to ensure it does not wreak any more havoc.

Experts say users should have up-to-date anti-virus software and install Microsoft's MS08-067 patch - also known as KB958644.

Global response

Microsoft has also partnered with security companies, domain name providers, academia, internet companies such as AOL and others on a co-ordinated global response to the worm.
Discarded computers, AP
Millions of computers have been hit by Conficker

Also included is the US Department of Justice and the Department of Homeland Security.

"The best way to defeat potential botnets like Conficker/Downadup is by the security and Domain Name System communities working together," said Greg Rattray, chief internet security adviser at the Internet Corporation for Assigned Names and Numbers (Icann).

"Icann represents a community that's all about co-ordinating those kinds of efforts to keep the internet globally secure and stable."

Sasser worm

In 2003 Microsoft created its reward programme with $5m (£3.4m) in funding to help law enforcement agencies bring computer virus and worm authors to justice.

This reward for help in tracking the creators of Downadup is the first time in four years that the company has put up some cash in response to a worm outbreak.
Clock, BBC
Microsoft hopes its bounty has started the countdown to finding its creator

"We have not seen this type of worm or one of its class since 2004," said Mr Stathakopulos.

In 2005 Microsoft paid out $250,000 (£171,000) to two individuals who helped identify the creator of the notorious Sasser worm. The author was arrested and sentenced by the German authorities.

Rewards of $250,000 were offered over three other major computer worm threats known as Blaster, MyDoom and Sobig worms.

Those perpetrators have never been caught.

Telco's initiatives help build local skills

2009-02-13T14:00:00.001-08:00

It's no surprise that Siemens, the German industry giant, has been around a long time, but did you know it has been doing business in Indonesia since 1855?

I learned about this during a recent visit to the head office of Nokia Siemens Networks Indonesia in Menara Mulia, Jakarta.

Back in the 19th century, among other things, Siemens brought the first key telegraph equipment to the island of Java, installed electricity generators in Batavia and installed the lighting in the Sultan's palace in Yogyakarta.

As you know, in mid 2006, Nokia bought the carrier services arm of Siemens AG. The resulting 50-50 company was called Nokia Siemens Networks (NSN). The new company has nothing to do with the mobile devices business, which is under Nokia Mobile. Rather, NSN is focused on providing products and services for fixed and wireless networks. In fact, according to NSN's release, Frost & Sullivan, a global business research and consulting firm, recognized NSN as the Telecom Equipment Vendor of the Year in Indonesia for 2008.

What enabled this company to lead the delivery of telecom products and services in Indonesia in just one and a half years after the merger? First, according to Arjun Trivedi, head of subregion Indonesia, NSN had offices in all 33 provinces plus 20 other cities across the country. The closeness to the customers facilitates the contact between the engineers and the customers and expedites their services. Currently, NSN employs 1,100 permanent employees and 2,400 contract workers. Half of the total 3,500 employees work in Jakarta. "A very substantial number of these people are Indonesians," Arjun told me in our conversation.

Another reason for the achievement is of course the wide range of technologies that NSN brings to Indonesia, which Arjun claimed to be the largest in the country. It includes access technologies such as ADSL, HSDPA, HSPA, HSPA Evo, LTE and even WiMAX.

The broad portfolio allows the company to provide services such as applications development, network optimization and, of course, procurement to local telecom operators such as Telkom, Telkomsel, Indosat, Excelcomindo, 3 and Axis. Interestingly, I learned that Internet service providers such as CBN and Biznet are also among NSN's customers.

I was also surprised to find out that Jakarta serves 12 countries in the Asia-Pacific region, including India, South Korea, Australia and New Zealand. The R&D center in this city focuses on supporting Intelligent Networks (IN).

An Intelligent Network, in essence, includes the servers and systems for prepaid applications. "We are developing prepaid applications here in Jakarta," said Arjun. These are very complex applications, since, as the term "prepaid" indicates, the operators have to be able to track the usage of the "pulses" by each customer in real time to make sure that every second of call is paid for.

In this connection, the most interesting facility that NSN has built in Indonesia is the newly inaugurated test bed. The core of this test bed was actually inherited from Siemens, but it was still very small when it was transferred to NSN. Located on the ground floor of Menara Mulia, it contains a fully working GSM/UMTS network complete with the BTS and switch. This test bed is interconnected to three other facilities in the world - Helsinki, Munich and Singapore. "Any GSM operator in Indonesia can bring their equipment here for testing purposes," Arjun explained. By testing the equipment or software in the test bed instead of the real network, operators can avoid the risk of wreaking havoc with their networks, which are bound to make their customers very unhappy.

Another feature of the test bed is that it can also be used as a training center by university students wishing to learn about the latest in network technology.

In fact, one of such training sessions happened to be going on when I toured the facility. Local developers can also come and test the applications they are working on to verify that these applications will work in a live network and will not bring it to its knees.

Like other global telecom vendors in Indonesia, NSN also works with leading local universities - ITB (Bandung), ITS (Surabaya) and UI (Jakarta). What distinguishes NSN is perhaps the attention given to women in technology.

In addition to conferring Woman in Technology Award, the company has also sent several female university graduates to Finland to learn about research and development in the telecom industry.

NSN may not be a familiar name in Indonesia - perhaps because it is still a fairly young company. Yet our young engineers must take advantage of the test bed, the R&D center, the various scholarships and all the training or internship programs that global telecom companies such as NSN offer. It is the only way we can build our local competence and talent pool in this industry.

Indonesia upbeat to host `green' World Cup

2009-02-13T13:57:00.001-08:00

The Soccer Association of Indonesia (PSSI) is moving to kick off its campaign to host the 2022 World Cup, its chairman Nurdin Halid said.

PSSI is campaigning for the heart of world's soccer ruling body FIFA by sounding out its World Cup host country proposal to FIFA members and hosting the FIFA president next month.

In a presentation Monday, Nurdin said he believed Indonesia stood a chance to win FIFA's approval to host the 2022 World Cup, despite the relatively poorer infrastructure, coupled with the low quality of the national squad compared to other candidates.

He said Indonesia had proposed a "Green World Cup 2022", hoping to capitalize on the current green and global warming movement worldwide.

"Our deforestation rate has contributed much to world pollution. By hosting the World Cup, we wish to build infrastructure and facilities that are environmentally friendly so we can give more to the planet," he said.

The PSSI, he said, would send its proposal this week to FIFA members to give them an idea of what Indonesia was offering.

Nurdin added that FIFA president Joseph S. Blatter would pay a visit to Indonesia "sometime in March", but declined to disclose the agenda.

He also said the construction of 10 new stadiums across the country, ranging in capacity from 40,000 to 50,000 spectators, were expected to be completed by 2015.

These stadiums are in Surabaya, Makassar, Medan, Tangerang, Yogyakarta and Gianyar.

Indonesia currently has three stadiums - Gelora Bung Karno in Jakarta, Gelora Sriwijaya in Palembang and Palaran in Samarinda.

Other countries also bidding for the 2022 World Cup are Australia, Belgium and the Netherlands (as co-hosts), England, Japan, Russia, Mexico, the United States, South Korea, Qatar and Spain and Portugal (as co-hosts).

State Minister for Sports and Youth Affairs Adhyaksa Dault said the government was upbeat about the proposal and would "provide assistance in all aspects".

"What needs to be remembered is that all efforts must be integrated and coordinated," he said.

Adhyaksa also pointed out that Mexico and Brazil, which he said were not well-off countries, had twice played host to world soccer's showpiece event.

"Hoping that we'll be better in 2022, I think we could be a good host," he said.

FIFA is scheduled to announce the 2022 host on Dec. 10, 2010.

Indonesia has hosted a number of international conferences and sporting events, including the 2007 UN Climate Change Conference and last year's inaugural Asian Beach Games.

However, critics have snubbed the proposal, saying Indonesia needs to improve the quality of its national squad first (currently ranked 144th in the world) before seeking to hog the world stage.

Despite the sport's wide popularity here, soccer is barely an industry yet, while thousands of clubs are still rated amateur.

In addition, fanaticism among local soccer fans has led to several chaotic incidents that have resulted in fatalities and financial losses.

Seeking some rest and recreation in the hidden corner of Batam

2009-02-13T13:48:00.000-08:00

Let’s start by being brutally honest: At first glance, Batam Island does not really appear a great vacation proposition.

Parts of the island are best described as an eyesore, with highly utilitarian industrial and commercial premises stretching over large swathes of the land.

And let’s be frank about the land itself, too – flat for one thing, with soil – exposed through the island’s numerous excavations – in an unappealing orangey-yellowish color that looks infertile and grubby.

Now we’ve got that out of the way, there is one more thing to add: Better things lie ahead.

As you travel from the island’s Hang Nadim airport to the area known as Nongsa, the industrial and commercial buildings – and that grubby-looking soil – gradually give way to dense thickets of shrubs and low-lying plants.

Keep going. This unkempt shrubbery then gives way to something else – to signs of humanity taming this wilderness and making it into something lovely and fresh. You have arrived at the dreamy vacation area of Nongsa, Nongsa is in the northern coastal region of Batam Island, with attractive inlets and beaches that add up to an idyllic and tranquil setting for some rest and recreation. There are golf courses here for those so interested, but it is much more the coast, the beaches and the resorts along the waterfront that attract visitors.

The resorts at Nongsa range from the pristine and ultramodern to the more traditional and tropical made from timber and bamboo with thatched roofs. Some of the modern architecture is impressive but those who find all that concrete and steel clinical and cold with may prefer the more “traditional” architecture with its natural materials.

Regardless of the style of architecture, the common theme here is the sea and the Strait of Singapore that Nongsa looks out onto. The shores and skyscrapers of Singapore are visible in the distance – no prizes for guessing why Singaporeans account for many of the holidaymakers.

Singapore is but a 45-minute ferry ride away, making it all too easy for those city-dwellers to escape their crowded city-state for the tranquility of Batam’s resort, the ferry dropping them at the very well-constructed and -managed ferry terminal known as Nongsapura.

Thanks to Nongsapura, getting to and from the resorts is easy and comfortable, with ferries setting off at regular intervals to destinations in both Singapore and Malaysia. These speedy ferries deftly negotiate busy waters, weaving around the huge cargo ships and tankers that pass through the strait. Before all that, though, comes the Nongsa River.

The Nongsa River connects the island to the strait. Like much of the rest of Batam Island, it is surrounded by dense vegetation, which lends it a distinctly wild air. Trips upriver to view exotic birds and wild monkeys are possible, although most people find it hard to drag themselves away from the coast.

One of those coastal attractions is Nongsa’s impressive and expansive marina open to private vessels. Otherwise, there are plenty of watery activities to help while away the holidays: fishing, snorkeling, parasailing, water-skiing, jet-skiing and banana boating.

The downside of all these water activities is the water itself – or more particularly the clarity of the water. It is perhaps only to be expected that with this strait being a major marine thoroughfare – dozens of massive ships pass through the Strait and often time clouds of exhaust fumes can be seen belching from their enormous engines – the water is going to be on the murky side of pristine.

The problem of pollution is also evident in the work of the cleaners raking the beaches each morning, burying the less desirable offerings that have been washed up on the shore.

Never mind – there is no need to swim in the sea, as the resorts all have their own swimming pools replete with fountains and waterfalls, and a mix of depths to please everyone from children and the more serious swimmer. Given this, the sea may be better left alone as a backdrop for the resorts.

Otherwise, the environment in Nongsa is generally clean and well kept, creating great benefits for the local wildlife. In the thick lush forests, visitors can see exotic and colorful birds going about their business of foraging and nesting. At night, bats sweep across the sky, gorging themselves on the abundant fruit hanging from the trees.

Nongsa and its resorts may be quite different from the rest of Batam Island, but are created ideally for rest and recreation. The detail in the construction and management of the hotels and resorts means taking a vacation here can be very pleasing and satisfying – regardless of first impressions.

Entrepreneurship: More than just self-employment

2009-02-13T13:47:00.001-08:00

Four years ago I wrote an article, “Wealth is a mindset, so is entrepreneurship”, which was published at The Jakarta Post. The gist of that piece was that an authentic and effective entrepreneur was not someone who just had a talent and ran with it. Neither was entrepreneurship about what you do or for whom. It stems from what you think of yourself.

We make assumptions about wealth. For instance, pursuing it means accumulating its symbols, such as money or assets. That’s a confi ning assumption. Being a wealthy person is actually about knowing what we can do and getting the most out of that capacity. When we think of wealth this way, we look for the most in ourselves and from ourselves and, like as not, end up achieving beyond what we thought was possible.

Now, four years on, entrepreneurship has become a viral idea, spreading to everyone it touches. But I am seeing some fundamental misunderstandings abut it, especially among young people. Mistakes happen when any fad spreads rapidly, so misunderstandings are, well, understandable. But addressing these misunderstandings is still a priority.

First, I want to set the record straight and warn the younger generation. All you newly employed college graduates, we don’t become entrepreneurs simply by leaving our current jobs or, for that matter, our present bosses. We can still behave entrepreneurially as a professional, even if we work for the government. In that setting entrepreneurship means contributing innovatively and creatively to the organizations we work for. Vision does not depend on the work place, it depends on care, hard work and positive thinking. I learned most of what I know now from the companies, both the small and the big, that hired me when I was fi rst out in the work force.

Second, many young people get inspired by legendary (and exceptional!) entrepreneurs who made it with little academic background. But instead of learning why these entrepreneurs are successful, we too often mistakenly focus on what they did not have, a good education.

The exception doesn’t make the rule, so education, when we can get a good one, is still the most important factor. Legendary entrepreneurs, such as Richard Branson or our own Pak Bob Sadino, say the same. Even though they didn’t hop through the schooling hoops, they were no less prepared than those with degrees, because they – this is crucial – never stopped learning. By the same token those who get the chance to study at top universities who are there just to get that piece of paper, not for the learning, are starving their own potential. Good education is a function of positive learning mindset and attitude, and schooling is the easiest toolkit for any budding entrepreneur to employ.

Next, entrepreneurship is not about earning to meet our needs; we do not live solely for ourselves. We live and work for the people we love and those who love us. I often see friends quit their jobs because they get tired of working for somebody else, and they lose the vision and purpose to give more and better for their family. That is selfish, unwise, and not what entrepreneurship is all about.

Entrepreneurship requires wisdom, not just blind intuition. It is not about being a richer man or woman but about becoming a better person, a better human being.

Lastly, entrepreneurship is the polar opposite of luck. You know luck, it’s the excuse that let’s us wait for our ship to come in, and the waiting makes us all the poorer. I like the old saying: “Luck happens to those who are most prepared when opportunity strikes”.

In the end, entrepreneurship is more about doing than about talking about doing. I want to share one take-away from my own experience as en entrepreneur: “If we aren’t having fun, we aren’t doing it right”.

Sandiaga Uno

Choosing the right food: Is it in your blood?

2009-02-13T13:45:00.000-08:00

Choosing the best food to eat has become something of a minefield, as we are bombarded with complicated, confusing and sometimes conflicting nutritional information.

But for adherents of the blood type diet, one restaurant has made ordering the right meal easy.

All of you have to do is say the word, or more precisely, the letter. Healthy Choice in Mega Kuningan's Bellagio Boutique Mall is Jakarta's first organic blood type cuisine restaurant.

Whether your blood type is O, A, B or AB, the restaurant offers a selection of tasty meals tailored to your blood group.

From dory tofu soup and cranberry vegetarian fried rice to sirloin flank steak with mint sauce and yaki don fried noodles, the menu includes a wide range of options categorized according to the four blood types.

The restaurant is one of seven Healthy Choice restaurants in Jakarta that promote healthy eating and living.

The menu is based on the theories of naturopath Peter J. D'Adamo, the author of Eat Right 4 Your Type.

The Eat Right 4 Your Type diet is built on the idea that our blood contains various antigens depending on our blood type and these antigens react positively or negatively to lectins in the different food we eat, rejecting assumptions that everyone's body digests food in the same way.

Therefore, our blood types determine which foods should be included or avoided in our diet, and which are neutral.

It is also based on the theory that blood types evolved at different times and our food consumption should mirror the food that our ancestors ate.

For example, according to D'Adamo, O was the original blood type and was identified in the hunter-gatherer period.

On that basis, O blood types should eat a meat-heavy diet, similar to that of the hunters.

Passionate restaurant co-owner and naturopath, Riani Susanto, first became interested in healthy eating 12 years ago while suffering from chronic fatigue syndrome-like symptoms.

After much experimentation, she concluded that the solution lay in eating organic foods - foods grown and produced without chemicals, preservatives or hormones.

Riani decided to spread the word about healthy eating through the Healthy Choice restaurant chain.

"I don't say people cannot eat cake. I just say that if you don't eat cake everyday then you can have another 10 years to enjoy the cake."

When she initially read D'Adamo's books, Riani was a little skeptical, but on completing the series, she thought the theory made sense and decided the blood type diet would be the theme for her next restaurant.

She compiled the menu based on the foods prescribed in the blood type diet and the organic ingredients that were available, before refining the menu according to Asian tastes.

Riani believes that the Eat Right 4 Your Type diet can help to control weight, reduce fatigue and allergies, improve the functioning of the liver and even help with fertility.

"People think that the doctor will always be there waiting for you, that the cure is always there. People do not appreciate prevention," she says.

"We have to take responsibility for our own health - we cannot give that to the doctor."

But Soekirman, a professor in nutrition science at Bogor Agricultural University, has little faith in the diet.

"There is no scientific basis behind it at all. It is science fiction," he laughs. "It is an interesting read, like a novel."

In Soekirman's opinion, there is no consensus in the scientific community that O was the original blood type. He also asserts that there is no research published to back up D'Adamo's theories.

So why has the diet gained so much popularity?

"It is successful because it results in weight loss," he says.

"Of course if you eat only certain foods, automatically your weight goes down because it is not a complete diet. According to nutrition science, this is not a healthy diet."

Soekirman argues that the best diet is a balanced one consisting of a large proportion of carbohydrates, fruits and vegetables and smaller amounts of dairy, fats and sugars.

He does agree, however, that the appropriate diet varies from individual to individual.

"It should be according to the needs of the person. It will be different for the old and young, for the pregnant and the overweight," he says.

"It should be based on the condition of the person, not the blood type."

Soekirman believes it will take some time before Indonesians prioritize a healthier diet.

"Food patterns will follow what is happening in the West in developed countries - more fat and sugars. That is the trend we are afraid of."

However, TV host and presenter, Sophie Navita, believes the reason organic food has not taken off in Indonesia is because it is more expensive and offers limited ingredients.

Despite this, Sophie turned to organic eating when she was pregnant with her first child, because she believed it was a much healthier option in the long run.

"And it really tastes good. Usually healthy food wouldn't taste as good, but it went beyond my expectations!" she says.

Diet recommendations

2009-02-13T13:44:00.000-08:00

So what is right for your blood type?

In his book, Eat Right 4 Your Type, naturopath Peter D'Adamo prescribes diet, exercise and lifestyle plans for each of the four blood groups.

Based on the theory that all food contains lectins that are compatible or incompatible with each blood type, the diet recommends that certain foods should be included and others avoided in order to minimize negative reactions to lectins.

The theory goes further to say that since our blood types evolved at different times, our dietary requirements are determined by our ancestry and we should eat what our ancestors with the same blood types ate many years ago.

D'Adamo argues that managing our diets in this way can help lose weight, boost energy and lower the risk of contracting some diseases.

Blood Type O - The Hunter

It is recommended that those with the O blood type eat foods high in protein such as red meat, fish and poultry.

They should also include fruits and vegetables in their diet.

However, they should avoid grains, breads, legumes and beans as well as dairy products, caffeine and alcohol.

D'Adamo's health regime for O types includes vigorous exercise such as aerobics, running and contact sports.

Blood Type A - The Cultivator

For A blood types the Eat Right 4 Your Type diet suggests a predominantly vegetarian diet including soy, grains, fruits and vegetables.

However, D'Adamo warns that Type As have particularly sensitive digestive systems and should try to maintain a fresh and organic diet.

They should avoid dairy products and red meat.

In addition, Type As should engage in gentle and calming exercises such as golf, yoga and tai chi.

Blood Type B - The Nomad

Those with the B blood type have relatively tolerant digestive systems and can enjoy almost all foods including dairy, meat, eggs and vegetables.

Grains, lentils, nuts, tomatoes and processed foods should, however, be avoided.

D'Adamo recommends moderate exercise that requires mental balance for Type Bs, such as hiking, swimming, tennis and cycling.

Blood Type AB - The Enigma

Type AB's dietary and exercise requirements are a hybrid of type A and type B requirements.

The Eat Right 4 Your Type diet especially recommends seafood.

It also suggests that tofu, dairy foods such as yoghurt, and green vegetables are beneficial.

D'Adamo also suggests that type Abs should eat smaller, more frequent meals.

Those of blood type AB have a long list of foods that should be avoided including chicken, beef and pork as well as smoked or cured meat. Also on the to-avoid list are beans, corn, wheat and seeds, as well as caffeine and alcohol.

Like Type As, D'Adamo recommends calming exercises for type ABs.

Cinnamon spice produces healthier blood

2009-02-13T13:42:00.000-08:00

Just half a teaspoon of cinnamon a day significantly reduces blood sugar levels in diabetics,
a new study has found. The effect, which can be produced even by soaking a cinnamon stick your tea, could also benefit millions of non-diabetics who have blood sugar problem but are unaware of it.

The discovery was initially made by accident, by Richard Anderson at the US Department of Agriculture’s Human Nutrition Research Center in Beltsville, Maryland.

“We were looking at the effects of common foods on blood sugar,” he told New Scientist. One was the American favourite, apple pie, which is usually spiced with cinnamon. “We expected it to be bad. But it helped,” he says.

Sugars and starches in food are broken down into glucose, which then circulates in the blood. The hormone insulin makes cells take in the glucose, to be used for energy or made into fat.

But people with Type 1 diabetes do not produce enough insulin. Those with Type 2 diabetes produce it, but have lost sensitivity to it. Even apparently healthy people, especially if they
are overweight, sedentary or over 25, lose sensitivity to insulin. Having too much glucose in
the blood can cause serious long-term damage to eyes, kidneys, nerves and other organs.
Molecular mimic

The active ingredient in cinnamon turned out to be a water-soluble polyphenol compound
called MHCP. In test tube experiments, MHCP mimics insulin, activates its receptor, and
works synergistically with insulin in cells.

To see if it would work in people, Alam Khan, who was a postdoctoral fellow in Anderson’s lab, organised a study in Pakistan. Volunteers with Type 2 diabetes were given one, three or six grams of cinnamon powder a day, in capsules after meals.

All responded within weeks, with blood sugar levels that were on average 20 per cent lower than a control group. Some even achieved normal blood sugar levels. Tellingly, blood sugar started creeping up again after the diabetics stopped taking cinnamon.

The cinnamon has additional benefits. In the volunteers, it lowered blood levels of fats and “bad” cholesterol, which are also partly controlled by insulin. And in test tube experiments it neutralised free radicals, damaging chemicals which are elevated in diabetics.
Buns and pies

“I don’t recommend eating more cinnamon buns, or even more apple pie - there’s too much fat and sugar,” says Anderson. “The key is to add cinnamon to what you would eat normally.”

The active ingredient is not in cinnamon oils. But powdered spice can be added to toast, cereal, juice or coffee.

Anderson’s team were awarded patents related to MHCP in 2002. But the chemical is easily obtained. He notes that one of his colleagues tried soaking a cinnamon stick in tea. “He isn’t diabetic - but it lowered his blood sugar,” Anderson says.

The group now plans to test even lower doses of cinnamon in the US, and also look at long-term blood sugar management with the spice.

The Dental Health and Dental perforated

2009-02-13T13:21:00.002-08:00

Perforated teeth that are not as durable due to contention at the time of the first. This theory stand up to year 1700-an until Willoughby Miller an American dentist, who works at the University of Berlin to find the causes of tooth decaying. He found that the hole caused by a dental meeting between the bacteria and sugar. The bacteria will change the rest of the sugar from food into acids that cause tooth clabber environment (natural environment should be basa teeth) and this is the acid that eventually make a small hole on the email services.

Hole occurs when the teeth on the email, we have not felt the toothache. However, the small hole next to the email can be slit and the rest of the food the bacteria will make the hole bigger punch dentin. At this time we will feel the earthquake on the teeth while eating. If left, the hole until the hole so that our nerves will start to feel sick tooth. This process will not stop until the teeth eventually become exhausted and only the root of a tooth.

Unplug Dental

Dental pain can not be regarded as the opinion of some people, because if didiamkan, can make the teeth become red and swollen. In addition, the teeth can be a hollow channel of the entrance channel to the germs of disease blood disease that can cause kidney, lung, heart and other diseases.

To avoid growing worse, when you have hollow teeth should immediately visit your dentist for mengobatinya. Although many people do not like going to the dentist for the reason that no matter the situation with the dentist, worried that high costs, fear or shame diejek because of damaged teeth, but to go to the dentist is the best solution to overcome the toothache. Perforated teeth can not heal itself. Although, perhaps after suffering toothache, the pain may be lost but the situation does not improve teeth. Teeth will remain hollow, even lubangnya will continue to draw more.

Steps will be taken in general dental menambal gear is damaged, if lubangnya not too large. However, if we feel the toothache, the process can not be directly penambalan done so because the gas in the teeth can not come out. Doctors will give paregoric will kill nerve or tooth so that we do not languish with the pain. At the next visit the teeth will then be cleaned and ditambal temporarily, permanently penambalan done at the next visit again.

When the hole is too large and not feasible for ditambal, the teeth should be revoked. Just as the process penambalan teeth, the teeth also can not be immediately revoked when the teeth are still a pain. This is when we feel the toothache, the anesthesia drugs (drugs to prevent immune pain when a tooth pulled) can not penetrate the root of a tooth, so that when pulled will cause a tremendous pain. The process of divestiture new teeth can be done when a tooth is not a pain to remove and pain doctors will kill nerve teeth.

Preventing Dental perforated

To prevent the occurrence of holes in the teeth, you can perform the following steps:

Check the teeth regularly
Visit the dentist every 6 months even if you do not feel the toothache. This is necessary so that doctors can detect the small holes that occur in the tooth and can be immediately so that the hole is not large. Can also detect the tooth that is not flat or berlekuk that can cause the teeth difficult to clean.

Brush teeth regularly and in a timely manner
Morning after breakfast and dinner, before bed is a great time to brush teeth. Saliva does not leave much time on our bed, so the teeth will be damaged if you leave food residue on the teeth without menyikatnya. Saliva is useful for memlinfungi bacterial cause of dental tooth hollow.

Brush teeth the right way
Bagamat brush teeth regularly has been done but if done in a way that is not true, of course the result will not be maximum. The correct way is to brush down to the tooth for front (incisor) the top, brush the teeth towards the top to the bottom of the front teeth and a flat brush to molar. Tooth comb teeth should be longer, because the teeth on this potentially menempelnya leftover food.

Wash Your Mouth after meals
Brush the teeth is not possible after we eat, the best way is rinse-kumur so that the rest of the food does not stick and continue to reduce the acid in the teeth.

Use dental floss to remove food residue
The remaining food is left behind, should not be removed by using the toothpick. Use toothpick can cause a rift between the larger adjacent teeth can cause injury to the gum.

Select a toothpaste containing fluorida
Using a toothpaste containing fluorida. This substance is one of the email material forming the teeth. The existence of these substances can prevent contamination in the teeth.

Eating food that filamentous
Consume vegetables or fruits can make sure the teeth stronger and prevent the occurrence of perforated teeth.

Reduce foods that contain sugar and flour
When this type of food left behind on the teeth and the bacteria will cause the acid to create a hollow tooth.

Take A Bath With Shower, Beautify Face

2009-02-13T13:21:00.001-08:00

In fact, there are many benefits of using a bath with shower. First, it shows our concern for the environment by utilizing the maximum water. Because the use of water during a bath with shower is far more sparing use of our scoop.

Benefits of both, is a beauty to our skin. Why? Because using the water we can get more negative ion is beneficial for our skin. In free air, there is actually a negative ion and positive together. With the spray of water, the negative ion and positive ion split. Positive ion is more weight, making this ion quickly fell while the negative ion can float in the air. That is why we feel more comfortable and fresh while flying near waterfall or breathe when the air after the rain because there are many negative ion in the air.

In an experiment, the number of negative ion increased 10-fold after the shower is used for 5 minutes and continue to grow with the length of shower. But keep in mind that the hot steam can thus increase the positive ion, when we should use the bathroom fan or open window so that the air exchange occurs.

Use a shower can also provide massage in the face so that we face, we can breathe better. So to get a good effect, should not be used in shower upright, but with a slope of about 60 degrees.

So, no one tried to use the shower when the tub as therapy for the face, we also as a statement of environmental concern us.

Caring party dress

2009-02-13T13:20:00.000-08:00

A beautiful party dress can be proud of you. To maintain neat and still not broken, not that easy. This is because the materials used to make a party dress is a material which is very smooth and requires special care. In addition, because the price is expensive it will be my party clothes when you become damaged.

Because generally dress or party dress you rarely use, you must consider storage techniques so that you do not wear pierced or moth-eaten moldy. Here are some things that need to be a concern when you want to save the party clothes that have been used:

It is stored with a party dress swing, so the time will still be neat and can be controlled easily. Except when the clothes made of jersey material, or knitting, as the swing can cause clothing to become elastic.
Hanger (hanger) that should be made of soft material, for example, that hanger coated foam. Or you can coat hanger that will be shared with foam. This hanger berfugsi that does not leave clothes on the former.
Enter the clothes that have been in the swing or plastic storage bag that when buying clothes so that your clothes do not dust.
To drive out moth, you can use the fragrant root of pengharum or clothing.
Remove the clothes after you saved some time (for example, after 1 month) so that clothing does not become smelly and you can check your clothes.

Jatiluwih in Bali

2009-02-13T13:04:00.000-08:00

Jatiluwih in Bali is perfect for you who want to enjoy the rural atmosphere on the island of Bali Dewata. The atmosphere is quiet, beautiful, natural and very different from the urban area full of hustle. This place can become a destination for those tired of the city life and want to eliminate saturation.

Located in the Penebel, Tabanan, Bali, with panoramic Jatiluwih famous persawahannya. Jatiluwih area is close to Mount Batukaru and is located on the height of 700 m above sea level. It is therefore not surprising if you will enjoy the cool air while here.

Terraced rice fields and Balinese subak

Jatiluwih have the beautiful natural scenery. Most of the rice field area is made berundak (stratified) or known as the terraced rice fields Balinese who will make you more mengangguminya. Rice field area is shaped with a wide terrace approximately 636 hectares. This rice field irrigation system using subak the irrigation system or irrigation traditional Bali-based society. Subak have built a temple for the goddess goddess of fertility and prosperity. The uniqueness of this is the terraced rice fields that make Jatiluwih nominated entry list of UNESCO World Heritage as a world cultural heritage.

Occasionally, you will also pass by the river, temple, or the houses that are still simple. The atmosphere is really describing a peaceful rural atmosphere. To be able to enjoy the panorama, you can use the bike or if you want to experience something different, you can rent a Volkswagen car while enjoying the scenery on the right your left. Rural atmosphere has been to attract a lot of tourists from within and abroad to visit the region this Jatiluwih.

Once satisfied to enjoy the panoramic rice field, you can enjoy fine dining in a restaurant sepuasnya, because this restaurant offers a buffet of food so you can fill the stomach sepuasnya. While dining, you can of the rice field and mountain is in front of you, this will make you feel more rileks. Finished eating, do not forget to opportunity intentionally x'self to photograph there.