Five-star Madrid back up to second

Real Madrid moved back up to second in the Primera Liga with a 5-0 rout of Levante at the Bernabeu on Sunday. Although Madrid struggled to get going, a 12-minute spell either side of half-time saw the hosts race into a four-goal lead.


Droschak: Tar Heels Steamroll to Victory

The stat line in the first half was about as remarkable as it gets. But then again, North Carolina is getting used to big leads at the break.


In case you were worried

FOXBORO, Mass. -- In a game only a mudder could love, leave it to Corey Dillon to be the workhorse the Patriots needed on a down and dirty type of afternoon in rainy New England.


O #39;Neal Wants More From Team

MIAMI -- Shaquille O #39;Neal thinks Miami #39;s opponents are rising to the challenge of playing against him and Dwyane Wade. And right now, the Heat aren #39;t responding the way their center would prefer.


Swiss voters back stem cell law

Voters in Switzerland have backed a new law permitting research on stem cells from human embryos. The Catholic Church and the influential Green Party had opposed the legislation, saying it involved taking human lives.


Chirac rival takes helm of president #39;s party

Nicolas Sarkozy, one of France #39;s most ambitious and visible politicians - and an in-house rival of President Jacques Chirac - moved to the helm of the president #39;s party yesterday, a perfect podium for him to bid for the


At XM, Boldly Going

The leading satellite radio service, with more than 500 employees and 2.5 million subscribers, has now come into its own and competition is sizzling.-The Washington Post


Contracts Keep Drug Research Out of Reach

Academic institutions and researchers are widely viewed as impartial actors in drug trials. But that independence often comes with strings attached.


High Hopes for a Ho Ho Ho Rally

The holidays are here, and investors are wondering: Will Santa put some jingle in their pockets this year? So far, so good. Since President George W. Bush #39;s Nov. 2 reelection, the stock market has roared, sending


#39;Merry Chrismukkah! #39; cards proclaim

KANSAS CITY, Mo. - Every December, Zack and Hilary Rudman used to send out nonsectarian cards with winter scenes and generic holiday greetings.


Scientists watch man-made flood of Grand Canyon

More than 135 years after explorer John Wesley Powell first surveyed this ancient canyon, his writings seemed to echo last week as water roared down the Colorado River.


Online insecurity

Despite new federal and state laws aimed at spamming, theft or fraud while using computers, hackers continue to prowl the Internet perpetrating scams and outright theft.


Martyn having time of his life

Last week Nigel Martyn made his 800th senior appearance in a 17-year career spanning four clubs. In the 1-0 win over Fulham, Everton #39;s goalkeeper had little to do.


Bengals Beat Browns in Second Highest Scoring Game in NFL History

The Cincinnati Bengals pulled out a 58-48 victory over the Cleveland Browns in the most remarkable game of their intrastate rivalry.


Irish will seek to break 6-bowl skid in Phoenix

Notre Dame accepted an invitation Sunday to play in the Insight Bowl in Phoenix against a Pac-10 team on Dec. 28. The Irish (6-5) accepted the bid a day after losing to Southern California


Smoke slows Chinese mine rescue

explosion, which could be the worst disaster to hit the world #39;s most dangerous mining industry in four years. the mine, which it said was known for a high concentration of gas.


Kazakh Party Offices Hit

Two months after elections that were criticized as falling short of international standards, two explosions shook the offices of President


Criminals Prey on Tsunami Victims Across the World

STOCKHOLM (Reuters) - Thieves, rapists, kidnappers and  hoaxers are preying on tsunami survivors and families of  victims in Asian refugee camps, hospitals and in the home  countries of European tourists hit by the wave.


Companies unveil details on getting free credit reports

The nation #39;s three biggest credit reporting companies have announced details about how consumers can receive copies of their credit reports for free once a year


Steelers just good enough

Dirty, weary and quietly pleased, the Steelers trudged into their locker room Sunday after the 16-7 victory against the Washington Redskins.


Chirac congratulates Finance Minister on winning UMP presidency

French President Jacques Chirac has congratulated Nicolas Sarkozy on his nomination as president of his ruling party, Union for a Popular Movement (UMP).


Blunkett investigator to be named

An independent investigator who will study claims that Home Secretary David Blunkett abused his position is to be named.


Justices to Hear Arguments on Interstate Wine Sales

The Supreme Court will soon hear arguments in a legal case that may decide whether wineries can sell directly to out-of-state consumers.


Raiders Ice Broncos

The Raiders block a final-minute field-goal attempt by the Broncos' Jason Hanson to preserve a 25-24 win in snow-covered Denver on Sunday night.


O'Neal Wants More

Shaquille O'Neal feels the Heat needs to acquire a killer instinct after just edging out the Celtics, 106-104, on Sunday evening.


Tree Farmers Lose Business

Now that the Thanksgiving feast is over, many people are getting ready to deck the halls and put up their Christmas tree. Some Christmas tree farmers are working even harder to compete with artificial trees.


Digital music a long way from displacing CDs

It #39;s going to be a long time before digital music downloads challenge CD sales, even in the online world. That #39;s the conclusion of a report by market watcher Informa Media Group (IMG), published this week.


Couples wins Skins Game with \$640,000

Fred Couples continued his amazing run in the Skins Game, prevailing in four playoff holes against Woods to get the final three skins and \$340,000, and win his record fifth Skins Game with a total of \$640,000.


Miller makes history with another win

LAKE LOUISE, Alberta - World Cup leader Bode Miller barreled his way into skiing history Sunday, collecting his third consecutive win.


Rangers boss McLeish keeps lid on expectations

Rangers boss Alex McLeish has attempted to quickly keep expectations low-key after going top yesterday. A 3-2 win over Hearts at Ibrox moved McLeish #39;s men a point clear of Celtic - the first time they #39;ve looked


Russians finish dominant  #39;04 with Federation Cup victory

Russia won its first Fed Cup title yesterday by edging defending champion France 3-2 when Anastasia Myskina and Vera Zvonareva beat Marion Bartoli and Emilie Loit 7-6 (5), 7-5 in the deciding doubles match.


After adjusting, Pats get busy

After a 3-3 slugfest of a first half, the New England Patriots (10-1) made enough alterations at the intermission to open the game up in the second half en route to a 24-3 win over Baltimore (7-4) yesterday.


Leinart #39;s big game bolsters Heisman chances

quot;Heisman Trophy? Definitely. He #39;s going to get it, quot; Trojans guard Fred Matua said after Leinart threw for a career-high 400 yards and five touchdowns in a 41-10 win over Notre Dame on Saturday night.


Steelers defense lives up to ranking

The Washington Redskins thought they had hit rock bottom with their offensive struggles when they gained just 213 net yards in their 28-6 loss to the Philadelphia Eagles last week.


China Mine Blast Kills 25, Traps 144 in 3rd Mishap in Six Weeks

Twenty-five Chinese coal miners were killed and 141 remained trapped underground a day after China #39;s third major mining accident in less than six weeks.


Pakistan Tests Short-Range Nuclear-Capable Missile, Army Says

Pakistan successfully test fired a short-range ballistic missile capable of carrying a nuclear warhead, as part of series of planned tests, the army said.


How the toy industry is being outplayed by video games this <b>...</b>

Left unfettered, Anthony Konieczka, 9, would happily thumb away at his Game Boy Advance or PlayStation2 from the minute he gets up to the moment he crawls into bed, 14 bleary-eyed hours later.


Gasoline Pump Price Falls for 9th Week

WASHINGTON (Reuters) - U.S. retail gasoline prices declined  for the ninth week in a row and truckers are enjoying the  cheapest diesel fuel in almost four months, the Energy  Department said on Monday.


Patriots 24, Ravens 3

The New England Patriots showed the stingiest team in the NFL that they also can dominate on defense. They shut down Baltimore 24-3 Sunday, scoring on a fumble recovery and holding the Ravens to 124 yards.


EAST CHAMP EAGLES EYEING SUPER PRIZE

Philadelphia is a city filled with landmarks, and the Eagles #39; 27-6 rout of the Giants had plenty of them. The Eagles sealed their fourth straight NFC East title, and joined the 1985 Bears and


Pakistan test-fires nuclear-capable missile (AFP)

AFP - Pakistan has test-fired a short-range nuclear capable missile, its fifth missile test this year.


ASEAN 10 - a peak of cooperation and consensus construction

Ha Noi (VNA) - The 10th summit of the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN 10) - an important event marking one year of operation of the regional grouping - kicked off in Vientiane , Laos , on Monday.


First five-year review of international treaty to ban land mines <b>...</b>

NAIROBI, Kenya - The first five-year review of the international treaty to ban land mines begins considering governments compliance with the pact on Monday, and starts work on a five-year action plan.


Haiti's Wounds Overwhelm a Suffering Public Hospital

Haiti's largest public hospital is barely functioning despite foreign governments' pledging \$1.4 billion toward Haiti's long-term development.


6 Civilians, 17 Insurgents Killed in Iraq Violence

A car bomb killed six civilians in Samarra, north of Baghdad, on Sunday when it exploded as a U.S. convoy was passing, police said. South of the capital, U.S. and Iraqi forces killed 17 suspected insurgents in raids.


Strong Quake Hits in Japan

A strong earthquake with a preliminary magnitude of 7.1 hit a wide area of Japan's northernmost main island of Hokkaido early Monday, Japan's Meteorological Agency said.


Chile to Pay Torture Victims

SANTIAGO, Chile, Nov. 28 -- President Ricardo Lagos of Chile on Sunday proposed special pensions and other reparations for more than 28,000 Chileans who were tortured by government agents during the country's 1973-1990 military dictatorship.


Asian Stocks Edge Up as Dollar Steadies (Reuters)

Reuters - The dollar strengthened above last\week's record low against the euro on Monday, allowing shares\in shippers and steelmakers to take Asian equity markets up,\but nerves about the dollar's direction capped stock gains.


Raiders Edge Broncos 25-24 (AP)

AP - The Silver and Black looked right at home in the white stuff. Kerry Collins threw for 339 yards and four touchdowns to lead the Oakland Raiders to an upset in the snow Sunday night, 25-24 over the Denver Broncos.


Lakers Defeat Hornets 89-76 (AP)

AP - Kobe Bryant had 20 points, six rebounds and seven assists, and the Los Angeles Lakers struggled to an 89-76 victory over the injury-depleted New Orleans Hornets on Sunday night.


SuperSonics 103, Pacers 95

In a matchup of conference leaders, the Seattle SuperSonics thought the Indiana Pacers would run out of steam when it counted most.


Blazers Bring Out The Worst In the Nets

The NBA introduced the 24-second shot clock in 1954 to increase scoring. For the second time this month, the Nets and the Portland Trail Blazers set back offensive basketball 50 years.


Hurricane season 2004: The year Florida #39;s luck ran out

After dodging hurricanes for a generation, Palm Beach County and the Treasure Coast got what no soothsayer would have dared predict: two storms striking almost the same spot three weeks apart.


To Stretch City's Budget for the Arts, Chicago Turns to EBay

Chicago will hold the first charitable eBay auction to be sponsored by an American city, to benefit the city's cultural programs.


Fratello waiting to hear back from Memphis Grizzlies

MIAMI Mike Fratello says he had  quot;a nice conversation quot; with the Memphis Grizzlies about the team #39;s vacant coaching position.


Bettis helps Pittsburgh #39;s streak hit 9

Antwaan Randle El, making his second NFL start at receiver, took care of the big plays and Jerome Bettis (Detroit Mackenzie) handled the short yardage in his fourth consecutive 100-yard game to lead the Steelers past Washington, 16-7, Sunday.


India says Kashmir incursions down

The number of Muslim guerrillas infiltrating Indian Kashmir from Pakistan has plunged 60 percent since construction of a border fence and a tighter vigil by frontier troops, India #39;s home minister has said in a report.


Wal-Mart casts pall over holiday sales

Anecdotal evidence of crowded stores at the start of the holiday shopping season wasn #39;t backed up with promising retail numbers, as Wal-Mart Stores Inc.


Leading IT Vendors Release Messaging Software

Fujitsu Limited, Hitachi, Ltd., and NEC Corporation have released their jointly developed messaging software as open source. This software implements the Web Services Reliability (WS-Reliability) standard, a


Divers find gash in hull of oil tanker

A 6-foot gash has been discovered in the hull of a tanker that leaked 30,000 gallons of crude oil into the Delaware River Friday night, officials said yesterday.


Southern California steps it up

No. 1-ranked Southern California can #39;t claim perfection yet, needing to win two more games to finish 13-0 and as national champion.


Texas Christian Beats No. 13 MSU 80-75 (AP)

AP - Sandora Irvin had 23 points and 17 rebounds and Texas Christian upset a ranked team for the second night in a row, beating No. 13 Michigan State 80-75 Sunday in the championship game of the Rainbow Wahine Classic.


Spain's ex-PM faces bombs inquiry

Former Spanish prime minister Jose Maria Aznar is to answer questions about the 11 March Madrid bombings.


INTERVIEW: Australia #39;s Foster #39;s Taps Russian Beer Market

MELBOURNE (Dow Jones)--Aiming to make Foster #39;s Lager the world #39;s third best-selling international beer by 2009, Australian drinks company Foster #39;s Group Ltd.


Christmas tree farmers hope for as good of year as last year

MADISON, Wis. -  #39;Tis the season to buy real trees to decorate the home and Wisconsin Christmas tree farmers hope they can repeat last year #39;s success.


Strike doesn #39;t paralyze turnpike

Pennsylvania Turnpike managers and temporary workers held out their hands again yesterday to collect tolls from shoppers, football fans and end-of-Thankgiving weekend


Yellen focuses on employment

SAN FRANCISCO (CBS.MW) -- Matching job growth and economic growth are key to the Fed #39;s pace of raising short-term interest rates, Janet Yellen, president of the San Francisco Federal Reserve Bank, said in an interview published Sunday.


Couples wins for record fifth time

LA QUINTA, Calif. -- Fred Couples continued his amazing run in the Skins Game on Sunday, prevailing in four playoff holes over Tiger Woods to win the event for a record fifth time.


Texas Christian 80, No. 13 Michigan St. 75

Sandora Irvin had 23 points and 17 rebounds and Texas Christian upset a ranked team for the second night in a row, beating No. 13 Michigan State 80-75 Sunday in the championship game of the Rainbow Wahine Classic.


China blast traps miners in toxic shafts

A gas explosion that tore through a coal mine in central China trapped 166 workers in underground shafts filled with noxious smoke in the latest and apparently the deadliest of a


Abbas reaffirms 2005 statehood goal

Mahmoud Abbas, the leading candidate for the Palestinian Authority presidency, said yesterday that Palestinians wanted to begin negotiating final statehood terms


Carter Lifts Himself Off Deck; Defense Is Steady at Helm

After suffering a head injury on the third play, Quincy Carter returned to what ended up being his most effective game since taking over as the Jets' starter.


Eagles' Biggest Hurdle Lies Ahead

EAST RUTHERFORD, N.J., Nov. 28 - Even the flamboyant Terrell Owens was subdued after Philadelphia's 27-6 victory over the Giants on Sunday. The Eagles had just dominated a rival and clinched the division, but it is a little hard to get excited about accomplishments that were never seriously in doubt.


Chinese auto firm looks overseas

Shanghai Automotive Industry Corporation, China's largest carmaker, is consolidating its assets into a new company as it considers listing its shares abroad.


US Retailers #39; Holiday Sales Rise; Wal-Mart Lags Behind

US retailers #39; credit card sales rose more than 6 percent during the first weekend of the holiday shopping season. Same-store sales at Wal-Mart Stores Inc.


Business leaders forecast tax rises

A Government of any party will be forced to cut spending or raise taxes by 7 billion a year after the election if it is to meet Chancellor Gordon Brown #39;s economic rules, business leaders have warned.


Bush reform may have blue states seeing red

President Bush #39;s  quot;revenue-neutral quot; tax reform needs losers to balance its winners, and people claiming the federal deduction for state and local taxes may be in administration planners #39; sights, news reports say.


SARS Outbreak May Hit Asia This Winter, WHO Says (Update1)

An outbreak of severe acute respiratory syndrome, or SARS, may hit Asia this winter, the World Health Organization said today in an e-mailed statement.


Bush urges N. Ireland leaders to accept Anglo-Irish proposal (AFP)

AFP - US President George W. Bush has urged Northern Ireland's leaders to accept an Anglo-Irish proposal aimed at ending political deadlock between Protestants and Roman Catholics, the White House said.


UPDATE 2-Australia heading for victory as Kiwis collapse

Australia ripped through the top of the New Zealand order to leave the tourist #39;s struggling on 36 for four at tea on the fourth day of the second test


If there was doubt, 49ers are worst Offense can #39;t reward defense <b>...</b>

The 49ers #39; defense caused fumbles, sacked the quarterback, knocked down passes and even scored a touchdown. The defense played well enough for any team to win.


Owen Still Hoping for Starting Role

England striker Michael Owen has vowed to keep fighting for a place in the Real Madrid starting line-up after another substitute appearance led to his now almost customary goal.


Sinn Fein seeks faster N Ireland pullout

An Irish political party leader is to urge British Prime Minister Tony Blair to accelerate the withdrawal of troops from republican areas of Northern Ireland.


Williams #39; call for Anglican unity falls on deaf ears

The Archbishop of Canterbury, Rowan Williams, issued a stern warning to Anglican primates across the world yesterday to avoid the language of hatred for homosexuals and to seek together to heal the divisions within the 77 million-strong communion caused


Pakistan tests mid-range missile

Pakistan test-fires a medium-range missile capable of carrying nuclear warheads.


Lehmann and Richardson contest foot-race for charity

New Delhi, Nov. 29 (UNI): Darren Lehmann will take on New Zealand #39;s opening batsman Mark Richardson, in a foot race following the end of play in the second 3 mobile Test match at the Adelaide Oval.


S.Korean industrial output growth slides to nine-month low

South Korea #39;s industrial output growth plunged to a nine-month low with 5.7 percent growth rate in October due to cooling exports and protracted weak consumer spending, the National Statistics Office (NSO) said Monday.


Music industry tries to shut Kazaa down

LAWYERS FROM the Music industry are on the attack down under as they try to close the popular P2P software network Kazaa. An Australian federal court was told that the developers of file-swapping technology


Iraqi Election Creates Unusual Alliances (AP)

AP - Doubts about holding Iraqi national elections on Jan. 30 produced an alliance few believed possible  #151; Sunni Arabs and Sunni Kurds united in calling for a delay. Less than 24 hours later, the alliance collapsed after Shiite Arabs made clear they would not accept any postponement.


French Relations in Africa Faces Threat (AP)

AP - For more than 100 years, French families have made their homes in this tropical country, rich in coffee and cocoa. Its main city, with its towering skyscrapers, crisp croissants and fine wines, became known as the Paris of West Africa.


Price reigns in shoppers #39; priorities

Ask holiday shoppers what drives their choice of stores and you #39;ll hear a variety of answers. But the subject of money is never far away.


UPDATE 1-Warburg Pincus to buy 2.75 of Kotak Mahindra Bank

The board of India #39;s Kotak Mahindra Bank Ltd. (KTKM.BO: Quote, Profile, Research) has approved an issue of shares representing a 2.75 percent stake to Warburg Pincus International LLC.


India dampen South Africa advance

South Africa added just 62 runs for the loss of three wickets as India pegged them back on day two of the second Test in Calcutta.


Special teams can #39;t handle Randle El

The Pittsburgh Steelers #39; Antwaan Randle El posted back-to-back returns of 60 and 43 yards in the first half at Heinz Field. Those big plays set up 10 points


25 miners killed in China blast

BEIJING, China (AFP) - Rescuers said at least 25 miners were killed yesterday in a major gas explosion at a coal mine in north China #39;s Shaanxi province, the official Xinhua news agency reported.


Boston's technology takes corporate, not consumer, tilt

If you want to know what it feels like to be a salmon struggling upstream, or a migratory bird flapping south in the face of a stiff headwind, just try starting a consumer technology business in Boston.


For planners, procrastinators alike

There are those who finish their holiday shopping by Thanksgiving. Then there are the rest of us. Here's a holiday gift guide for both planners and procrastinators.


Marketers drawing on anthropology

NEW YORK -- Eight O'Clock Coffee Co. wanted its ads to hit people right where they live -- in their own homes, just waking up in the morning, craving that first cup of coffee.


Retailers see tepid start to holiday season

NEW YORK -- The start of the holiday season was respectable but unimpressive for many of the nation's retailers, with consumers jamming stores and malls on Friday and pulling back as the weekend wore on.


Kotak Mahindra Bank to sell 2.7 stake to Warburg Pincus

The board of Kotak Mahindra Bank Ltd has approved an issue of shares representing a 2.75 per cent stake to Warburg Pincus International LLC.


Holidays Push Back Da Vinci Tests

Well, when you #39;re running a space program with mostly volunteers, you have to expect some hiccups. The da Vinci Project, a Canadian effort to launch a civilian space flight, has pushed back test flights because of the looming holiday season.


Microsoft #39;s Piracy Replacement Offer: Trick Or Treat?

Microsoft UK is offering FREE licensed copies of Windows XP to anyone who is willing to give up their counterfeit copies in exchange.


NOVO VOWS TO REMAIN FOCUSED

Rangers striker Nacho Novo insists he will not let his impending showdown with the Scottish Football Association distract him from the task of keeping the club at the top of the Bank of Scotland Premier League.


Wade enjoying sidekick #39; role

Dwyane Wade calls himself a  quot;sidekick, quot; gladly accepting the role Kobe Bryant never wanted in Los Angeles. And not only does second-year Heat point


Eagles clinch NFC East, aim higher

There was no champagne celebration by the players, no Gatorade bath for the coach. Maybe another team would be impressed with itself after clinching


Taiwan telcos need at least two years for 3G services to take off (AFP)

AFP - Taiwan's telecommunications industry will need at least another two years before third-generation (3G) mobile phone services generate meaningful revenues, an industry chief executive was quoted in the Financial Times as saying.


Japan's Supreme Court refuses compensation to South Korean war slaves (AFP)

AFP - Japan's top court has a damages suit brought by South Koreans forced to work as sex slaves or soldiers by the Japanese Imperial Army, saying their suffering in World War II cannot be compensated under the post-war constitution.


High Court to Hear Medical Marijuana Issue (AP)

AP - Angel Raich tried dozens of prescription medicines to ease the pain of a brain tumor and other illnesses before she took up another drug: pot.


High-water mark

FOXBOROUGH -- By the end of a 24-3 Patriots win over the Baltimore Ravens yesterday, the Patriots didn't know whether to sack Kyle Boller or to hug him.


Miserable conditions, another happy ending

FOXBOROUGH -- Does everyone in these here parts truly appreciate what's going on here? I mean, if football is your game, do you understand that you have hit the lottery? Stop worrying about whether the Patriots will win a third Super Bowl on the evening of Feb. 6, 2005. There are too many variables involved to start worrying about that. ...


Patchwork secondary was in prime position

FOXBOROUGH -- It is logical, if you coach offensive football for a living, to look at the Patriots secondary as presently constituted and see opportunity.


Celtics getting warmer, but they still fall to Heat

MIAMI -- Progress takes many forms. Last night at American Airlines Arena, it was a last-second 17-footer by Ricky Davis that skipped across the rim. Without the buzzer-beater, Boston failed to force overtime and came up short in its fourth-quarter comeback attempt against Miami, losing, 106-104.


Chargers don't drop the ball

KANSAS CITY, Mo. -- Strip away the great plays and the wild action and San Diego's 34-31 victory over Kansas City is reduced to a simple story: big plays. The revitalized Chargers (8-3) showed why they keep winning and the distraught Chiefs (3-8) showed why they continue to lose. San Diego made the big plays yesterday, got expert quarterbacking from ...


Steelers have plenty in reserve

PITTSBURGH -- The Washington Redskins only wish they were getting as much offense from their starters as the streaking Pittsburgh Steelers are from their backups.


Eagles roll past Giants by smothering Manning

EAST RUTHERFORD, N.J. -- The Philadelphia Eagles wrapped up a fourth consecutive NFC East title the same way they won the first three -- with an awesome defense that made Eli Manning look like a rookie.


Texans sweep past Titans

HOUSTON -- David Carr threw for 201 yards and two touchdowns and Domanick Davis rushed for a season-high 129 yards and a score to help the Houston Texans rally from an 18-point deficit yesterday in a 31-21 win over the Tennessee Titans.


Niners hand it to Dolphins

SAN FRANCISCO -- Randy McMichael caught a 15-yard touchdown pass with 10:35 to play, and the 49ers fumbled five times in the fourth quarter of the Miami Dolphins' 24-17 victory yesterday, leaving San Francisco as the league's only one-win team.


Hamstrung no longer

MINNEAPOLIS -- Randy Moss caught a go-ahead touchdown pass in the third quarter, Kevin Williams returned Byron Leftwich's fumble 77 yards for the clinching score, and the Vikings beat the Jacksonville Jaguars, 27-16, yesterday. Trailing, 20-16, just before the 2-minute warning, with third and 6 at the Minnesota 19, Leftwich had Jacksonville in position to take the lead. But rookie ...


A backfield in motion

FOXBOROUGH -- He needed a long hit of mouthwash when the festivities at Gillette Stadium were over yesterday.


Latest event far out

FOXBOROUGH -- The Patriots might have underestimated Adam Vinatieri's scoring range yesterday. During pregame planning, the Patriots decided not to attempt field goals if the line of scrimmage was outside the 30-yard line. But Vinatieri's 48-yard field goal in the third quarter of the Patriots' 24-3 victory over Baltimore cleared the crossbar by several yards, leaving the impression the Patriots ...


Colvin likes getting in on action

FOXBOROUGH -- It all feels different to Rosevelt Colvin. A 10-1 season feels different than the 13-3 season he experienced with the Chicago Bears under Dick Jauron in 2000.


Bengals outscore Browns

CINCINNATI -- Kelly Holcomb threw for 400 yards and five touchdowns -- and lost. Strange? Not as strange as those other numbers glowing on the scoreboard as Holcomb trudged off the field with his head down and more misery ahead.


Hughes is huge in Wizards' win

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


No. 1 Tennessee holds off Owls

Shanna Zolman scored 5 of her 10 points in the closing minutes and Shyra Ely made two free throws with 11.9 seconds left, helping top-ranked Tennessee avoid an upset at the hands of Temple by pulling out a 52-48 decision in Knoxville, Tenn.


Indiana kicks aside Eagles

BLOOMINGTON, Ind. -- Josh Tudela headed in a corner kick from Brian Plotkin in the 41st minute, lifting defending national champion Indiana to a 1-0 NCAA Division 1 soccer tournament win over Boston College yesterday.


BC's bowl picture out of focus

Where to now? That was the question everyone at Boston College was asking yesterday after the 17th-ranked Eagles laid a colossal egg in Saturday's devastating 43-17 loss against Syracuse. It cost BC the Big East title outright, a berth in the Bowl Championship Series, and a likely New Year's Day bid to the Fiesta Bowl.


Something was on the blink

The problem with being in the spotlight dance is a basic one. You had better know how to dance.


Heralded Herra has had helpers

When Hingham meets Wilmington tomorrow in the Division 2A playoffs, the Harbormen will be face with a player the likes of which they have never seen, said Wildcats coach Bob Almeida. Wilmington quarterback Joe Herra, a four-year starter who ranks fourth in Eastern Mass. with 18 touchdown passes, will attempt to lift the Wildcats into the Super Bowl when Wilmington ...


There's nothing to fear but Feehan itself

The Bourne football team has compiled five shutouts and played to a 10-1 record this season behind the mantra:  quot;Respect everybody, fear nobody. quot; That formula becomes harder to live by tomorrow when the Canalmen take on Eastern Athletic Conference champion Bishop Feehan in the Division 2A playoffs at 4 p.m. at Greater New Bedford Vocational High School.


166 miners trapped in China blast

BEIJING -- An explosion tore through a coal mine in central China yesterday, sending smoke billowing from air vents and trapping at least 166 miners in tunnels and shafts below without a method of communication, the government said.


Israel eyes coordination of pullout

JERUSALEM -- Israel is prepared to coordinate its pullout from Gaza with a new Palestinian government, officials said yesterday, a shift from Prime Minister Ariel Sharon's concept of  quot;unilateral disengagement quot; and a sign that cooperation may be restored in the post-Arafat era.


THANKSGIVING WEEKEND SHOPPING: Consumers get the job done: They <b>...</b>

The Thanksgiving weekend is over, and the typical consumer has completed 37 percent of his or her holiday shopping, according to a National Retail Federation survey released Sunday.


PEPPER-SPRAY TOYS  #39;R #39; US  #39;DESERTED #39;

Customers of the Times Square Toys  #39;R #39; Us yesterday said the flagship store lacked its normal Christmas bustle, one day after pepper spray forced the evacuation of some 3,000 customers.


Crude futures ease despite lingering fears over heating oil <b>...</b>

Crude oil futures eased slightly Monday but remained close to the US\$50 barrel level amid lingering concerns about shortages of heating oil at the start of the Northern Hemisphere winter, market-watchers said.


China, ASEAN to sign deals moving towards world #39;s biggest free <b>...</b>

VIENTIANE: China and Southeast Asian countries were Monday to sign historic trade pacts paving the way for the world #39;s biggest free-trade zone, which could eventually include the rest of Northeast Asia and India.


The Best Toys Don #39;t Come In A Big Box

Marchets Toys  amp; Hobbies, a small shop tucked in the corner of Southgate Shopping Center, is a reminder of life before the big-box stores.


Delaware River Oil Spill Leaves Wildlife Imperiled

Birds coated in oil were carried to a wildlife refuge by volunteers trying to save them from the largest oil spill on the Delaware River in nearly a decade.


Couples Bests Woods to Continue Mastery of Skins Game

Fred Couples continued his amazing run in the Skins Game in La Quinta, Calif., prevailing in four playoff holes over Tiger Woods to claim the final three skins and \$340,000, and win his record fifth Skins Game with a total of \$640,000.


Aussies set huge total

NEW Zealand trailed by 314 to be 5-149 in its second innings at stumps on day four of the second Test against Australia at Adelaide Oval today.


Koznick lands spot on Aspen podium

ASPEN - After two days of disappointment, an American ski racer finally landed on a podium in front of an enthusiastic, partisan and snow-covered crowd Sunday.


UPDATE 1-Everton draw at Newcastle, Spurs end losing run

Everton ground out a 1-1 draw at Newcastle United and Tottenham Hotspur ended a run of six Premier League defeats with a morale-boosting 2-0 victory over 10-man Middlesbrough on Sunday.


McNair #39;s future is uncertain, will  #39;evaluate #39; after season

In the Astrodome as a Houston Oiler he began laying the foundation for a successful career that includes a Super Bowl appearance, last season #39;s Co-MVP award and recognition as one of the league #39;s toughest and most versatile quarterbacks.


US general warns over Iraq poll

Violence in Mosul is damaging efforts to hold elections in the city, the US commander in north Iraq tells the BBC.


Killer fingertips can stop E.coli

Scientists discover how the skin of the fingertips protects itself against a common bug that causes diarrhoea.


Online commons to spark debate

eBay could be a good model for \government-backed online communities,  says a UK think-tank.


UPDATE: Australian Growth Likely Slowed Sharply In 3Q

SYDNEY (Dow Jones)--Australia #39;s economic growth likely slowed sharply in the third quarter, economists said Monday, with data showing a record current account deficit and foreign debt.


Telekom Austria Acquires Major Bulgarian Mobile Operator

Telekom Austria AG, Austria #39;s biggest phone operator won the right to buy Bulgaria #39;s largest mobile phone company, MobilTel EAD.


Martha #39;s meals not up to Living standards

unless one is eating it with Martha Stewart! Carol Gilbert, 57, a Catholic nun serving time with the domestic diva at the Federal


Step change as Ofgem agrees price rise

Electricity distribution companies in Great Britain will be allowed to raise their prices by an average of 1.3 per cent after inflation in 2005-2005, industry regulator Ofgem said on Monday.


Mitsubishi, Merrill Lynch in Joint Venture

Money-losing Japanese automaker Mitsubishi Motors Corp. said Monday that it is setting up a joint venture with Merrill Lynch to offer auto-sales financing services in the United States.


Kazaa #39;s parent takes another legal beating

quot;The Kazaa system is an engine of copyright piracy to a degree of magnitude never before seen, quot; declared the counsel for the music industry, Tony Bannon, during today #39;s commencement of the civil trial against peer-to-peer (P2P) software distributor


Crew to re-dock spaceship at international space station

The two-man crew is scheduled to re-dock a spaceship at a new port this morning. Mission Control says it #39;s to prepare for two spacewalks early next year.


Microsoft offers XP counterfeit  #39;amnesty #39; in hopes of chasing down <b>...</b>

Microsoft has announced a one month  quot;amnesty quot; of sorts for possessors of possible counterfeit copies of the Windows XP operating system.


Now, a cellphone that can advice you!

Two Massachusetts Institute of Technology scientists are developing a cellphone that is so smart it can tell what you think and even predict your next move.


Cash crunch no game for Infinium Labs

The financial picture is not pretty at Infinium Labs, a Sarasota, Fla., video-game company that lured former Microsoft employees to work at its main development office in Seattle.


A universally good year for the Geminids meteor shower

SATURN makes its reappearance on our star maps this month but is only the appetiser for a feast of planetary interest later in the night.


Violent videos and the holidays

They were lined up at dawn Friday. They fidgeted with nervous energy. They could barely wait to get into those stores and start spending.


Beckham to Arsenal?

Beckham might return to England with Arsenal: David Beckham is being rumored to return to England with Arsenal in a deal that may see midfielder Fredrik Ljungberg join Real Madrid, the Daily Star Sunday said.


Diouf spit leaves a sour taste for Bolton

Senegal striker El-Hadji Diouf has been hit with a fine of two weeks #39; wages after he spat in the face of Portsmouth #39;s Arjan de Zeeuw during Saturday #39;s Premiership match.


Russia power to maiden title

Moscow: Moscow-born Tatiana Golovin kept alive Frances hopes of retaining the Fed Cup title by crushing US Open champion Svetlana Kuznetsova 6-4, 6-1 in the second reverse singles on Sunday.


Eagles soar to NFC East division title

EAST RUTHERFORD, United States (AFP) - The Philadelphia Eagles clinched their fourth straight division title, and with plenty of time to spare in the National Football League season.


Top 25 women: Top-ranked Tennessee survives Temple scare

A poor shooting game will likely knock Tennessee out of the No. 1 ranking. A second bad showing almost cost the Volunteers more. Shanna Zolman scored five of her


French relay team set to get late gold

American Calvin Harrison #39;s failure to appeal against a doping ban means the French men #39;s 4x400 meters relay team will get a late gold.


Just how super are the Sonics?

They sport the best record in the NBA and have beaten several top-tier teams (like Minnesota, Sacramento, San Antonio and Denver).


Iran agrees to a freeze on nuke programs

Dropping a last-minute demand to keep using centrifuges, Iran agreed yesterday to suspend its nuclear programs and won some additional concessions from Europe for a resolution


FDA Warns Cyberonics on Manufacturing

CHICAGO (Reuters) - U.S. regulators warned Cyberonics Inc.  of manufacturing deficiencies at the Houston plant that makes  its sole product, an implantable device to treat epilepsy, the  company said on Monday.


Philippine GDP rises 6.3 percent in third quarter

The Philippine economy rose 6.3 percent year-on-year in the third quarter, higher than the market expectations, the government said Monday.


Warburg to buy Kotak bank pie

Foreign Institutional Investor Warburg Pincus International will pick up 2.75 per cent stake in Kotak Mahindra Bank for Rs 75.9 crore (Rs 759 million), subject to shareholders #39; approval.


SuperGen Withdraws Drug Application

NEW YORK (Reuters) - SuperGen Inc. SUPG.O on Monday said  it has withdrawn an application to market its pancreatic cancer  drug in the United States, casting a cloud on the drug's future  in the world's biggest market and sending the company's shares  down as much as 16 percent.


BECKS TO HIS BEST FOR REAL

DAVID BECKHAM and Michael Owen were on target as Real Madrid went goal crazy in the Bernabeu last night. Beckham marked his return to form in style with his first goal in two months.


Telekom Austria Wins Mobiltel Bid Option for \$2.1 Bln (Update2)

Telekom Austria AG, the country #39;s biggest phone operator, won the right to buy Bulgaria #39;s largest mobile phone company, MobilTel EAD, for 1.6 billion euros (\$2.1 billion), an acquisition that would add 3 million subscribers.


Regulator agrees power price rise

Power network distribution charges are to rise by an average 1 next year, regulator Ofgem has announced. The electricity charges will then be capped at the rate of inflation for the next four years, Ofgem said.


Stocks Start 2005 on Weak Note

NEW YORK (Reuters) - Stocks fell on Monday -- the first  trading day of 2005 -- after disappointing U.S. employment and  construction spending data triggered concern about economic  growth and lower crude oil prices pulled down energy shares.


Australian wildlife authorities fight to save stranded whales

Wildlilfe authorities in Australia are concerned by the beaching of dozens of whales in two separate incidents in waters off the state of Tasmania.


WORLD IN BRIEF

RIO DE JANEIRO -- Gang members shot and wounded dozens of people at a Rio de Janeiro disco Sunday after party organizers refused to stop the music to honor a suspected drug kingpin killed earlier by police.


The Cost of Virus Protection Rises

Symantec, McAfee hope raising virus-definition fees will move users to suites.


Google Stumbles With New Desktop Tool

Beta search app creates vulnerabilities that may threaten your data's security.


Vietnam to create more favorable conditions for foreign investors

Vietnam is endeavoring to improve its business environment in such fields as procedures, taxes, land and labor, in a move to lure US\$18 billion worth of foreign direct investment in the 2006-2010 period.


Couples hits the jackpot at Skins Game

Fred Couples made two big putts - worth at least \$300,000 apiece - to again emerge the big winner at the Skins Game, which also featured Tiger Woods, Annika Sorenstam and Adam Scott.


Rangers 3, Hearts 2

Rangers manager Alex McLeish paid tribute to his battle-weary players after they defeated Hearts and reached the Bank of Scotland Premier League summit for the first time in more than a year.


Philly clinches NFC East title

EAGLES 27, GIANTS 6: The Eagles, in the playoffs for the fifth consecutive year, are the third team since 1978 to win its division in Game 11.


PITTSBURGH WINS 9TH IN A ROW WITH 207 YARDS

Antwaan Randle El and Jerome Bettis gave the host Pittsburgh Steelers just enough offense for a 16-7 win at home against the Washington Redskins yesterday, and to keep their longest winning streak in 28 years going.


Abbas seeks international support for Palestinian elections

Palestine Liberation Organization (PLO) leader Mahmoud Abbas arrived in Jordan on Sunday in an attempt to seek international support for January #39;s landmark elections.


Aid Group Threatens Afghanistan Pullout

An aid group in Afghanistan said it was considering pulling out of part of the country after Taliban militants attacked its compound in a southern town yesterday, killing three people and engaging authorities in a gun battle.


Severn Trent lifts dividend as US business suffers

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


IBM to introduce chip for consumer products

New York, November 29: International Business Machines Corp is set to introduce a new chip to be used in consumer products that it has developed with Sony Corp and Toshiba Corp, the Wall Street Journal reported on Monday.


China expects 9 GDP growth in  #39;04

TOKYO (CBS.MW) - China expects economic growth to reach at least 9 percent in 2004, according to a published report. Free! Sign up here to receive our Before the Bell e-Newsletter!


Big business pushing security agenda

For Paul Martin, George W. Bush #39;s official visit to Ottawa this week after taking control of the White House for another four years, not only signals a new era in Canada-US relations.


NBC Exec Dick Ebersol Survives Jet Crash (AP)

AP - NBC Sports chairman Dick Ebersol and his college-aged son emerged from the fiery wreckage of a corporate jet after it crashed during takeoff and burst into flames, killing two crew members. Rescuers were still searching for Ebersol's younger son, whose seat was missing from the smoldering ruins.


Owens makes his presence felt, even without a dance

And in Week 12, Terrell Owens paused to become just another Eagle contributing to just another victory. No controversy. No ceremony.


Australia Needs Five Wickets for Sweep of Test Cricket Rivals

Australia reduced New Zealand to 149- 5 on day four of the second cricket Test in Adelaide, moving within five wickets of a 2-0 series win after setting the tourists 464 for victory.


World Bank Head to Leave in June

WASHINGTON (Reuters) - World Bank President James  Wolfensohn will leave his post at the beginning of June, when  his term expires, and a search is now under way for someone to  replace him, a U.S. Treasury spokesman said on Monday.


NBA Today (AP)

AP - Cleveland at Los Angeles Clippers (10:30 p.m. EST). LeBron James is averaging 26.6 points for the Cavaliers.


Manufacturing Picks Up in December (Reuters)

Reuters - U.S. factories picked up their pace in\December, capping off a year of expansion in the manufacturing\industry despite some recent signs of a downturn in employment,\a report showed on Monday.


World Bank Head to Leave in June (Reuters)

Reuters - World Bank President James\Wolfensohn will leave his post at the beginning of June, when\his term expires, and a search is now under way for someone to\replace him, a U.S. Treasury spokesman said on Monday.


Fred Couples Wins Record 5th Skins Game (AP)

AP - Fred Couples continued his amazing run in the Thanksgiving weekend tournament, prevailing in four playoff holes over Tiger Woods to claim the final three skins and  #36;340,000, and win his record fifth Skins Game with a total of  #36;640,000.


Sony to Disclose Details on Computer Chip

Sony Corp. plans in 2006 to begin selling home servers for broadband and high-definition TV systems powered by a revolutionary new computer chip, the Japanese electronics and entertainment giant said Monday.


Branson can buy Indian airline stake

Richard Branson could qualify to buy a stake in an Indian airline in his personal capacity under India #39;s existing foreign investment regulations, a top government official says.


Recording industry sues Kazaa in Australia

Lawyers for Australia #39;s recording industry branded the popular Kazaa computer file-swapping network  quot;an engine of copyright piracy to a degree of magnitude never before seen quot; as they launched a court battle on Monday to shut down its illegal activities.


Finnish skier on top at Aspen

After her latest win, Finland #39;s Tanja Poutiainen just shrugged and raised her eyebrows with each question. Not even she could explain why she #39;s off to such a good start this season.


Milan close in on Juve

AC Milan closed the gap on leaders Juventus to four points on Sunday after receiving a helping hand from city-rivals Internazionale.


Steelers #39; defense, Bettis key win over Redskins

When your defense holds an opponent to 207 yards of offense and allows only one touchdown, you should win a lot of football games.


THE CLINCHER Eagles earn division title by rolling over Giants

No matter how much sugar Eli Manning tried to sprinkle on yesterday #39;s 27-6 loss to the Eagles, he couldn #39;t cover up the sourness of his own performance.


Brees, Chargers still electrifying

The revitalized San Diego Chargers showed why they keep winning, and the distraught Kansas City Chiefs showed why they continue to lose.


140 still trapped in mine in China blast; 25 dead

BEIJING - More than 140 miners remained trapped in the tunnels and shafts of a coal mine in central China after an explosion Sunday that killed 25 of their colleagues, the government said.


Rescue workers save 12 beached whales

Rescuers have saved at least 12 pilot whales that beached themselves on Maria Island, off Tasmania #39;s east coast. It has been an exhausting 24 hours for National Parks and Wildlife officers in Tasmania after mass strandings at Maria Island and King Island.


US tech firms hire more foreigners here, too

US tech companies aren #39;t just sending work overseas. They #39;re also trying to hire more foreign workers in the USA. Congress approved 20,000 new visas for skilled foreign workers this month.


Software Upgrade knocks out UK Government Network

A routine computer software upgrade has crashed 80 percent of UK government PCs at the Department for Work and Pensions (DWP) on Friday.


Consumers losers in next-generation DVD battle

As videocassettes fade into history, a full-fledged battle is on to establish the next standard of DVDs which could open up a new realm of possibilities in interactive home entertainment.


It Bodes well

LAKE LOUISE -- Less than a dozen hours before making history, Bode Miller proved he #39;s every bit as good an apres skier as he is on the snow.


Stephen Dodd wins China Open

Stephen Dodd of Wales won the China Open Sunday by three strokes over Thomas Bjorn. Dodd shot a 4-under-par 68 in the last round to finish in 12-under 276.


Brooks gets into the flow

TEMPE - Before yesterday, Brooks Bollinger was last seen in the final preseason game, leading the Jets to 21 unanswered points in the final five minutes to defeat the Eagles.


Lonard wins Australian Open for second year running

Defending champion Peter Lonard charged home with five late birdies to win the centenary Australian Open by a single shot on Sunday.


Big plays give Chargers edge

KANSAS CITY, Mo.  With their 34-31 victory Sunday, the San Diego Chargers showed why they keep winning. The Kansas City Chiefs showed why they continue to lose.


China, Japan, SKorea Vow Cooperation Over NKorea (Reuters)

Reuters - Leaders of China, Japan and South\Korea vowed Monday to strengthen cooperation in resolving the\crisis over North Korea's nuclear programs and to tighten\security and economic ties.


Google Stumbles With New Desktop Tool (PC World)

PC World - Beta search app creates vulnerabilities that may threaten your data's\  security.


Brighter Previews for Your Pictures (PC World)

PC World - Epson's Photo Fine technology promises vivid, crisp colors on digital\  camera LCDs.


Landmine summit opens in Kenya

A conference has opened in Kenya to try to eradicate the use of landmines around the world. Dozens of people are killed or injured by landmines every day and many of them are civilians.


New Wi-Fi Nearly Doubles Speed (PC World)

PC World - Belkin's Pre-N wireless networking line also dramatically improves\  range--even for 802.11b and 802.11g gear.


The Cost of Virus Protection Rises (PC World)

PC World - Symantec, McAfee hope raising virus-definition fees will move users to\  suites.


DNA bank to catch badger killers

A database of badger DNA is being created to help catch people who illegally bait the animals and dig their setts.


Telekom Austria secures right to buy MobilTel

Telekom Austria on Monday won the right to acquire MobilTel, the Bulgarian operator, for 1.6bn (\$2.12bn), in a deal that would allow it to tap into an underdeveloped mobile market.


Virgin keen to invest in airlines, telecom

WHEN someone as colourful as the Chairman of the Virgin group, Sir Richard Branson, comes visiting there is bound to be some fun and games.


Music industry opens new front against Kazaa in Australia

The music industry has taken its battle with peer to peer networking down under. The Australian subsidiaries of the major record labels, including Universal, EMI, Sony BMG, Warner and 25 others are suing Sharman


IBM to unveil graphics processing chip  #39;Cell #39; - report

LONDON (CBS.MW) -- IBM (IBM) later today is expected to announce the limited production plans for a chip for home entertainment products, the Wall Street Journal reported.


4 studios back Toshiba #39;s HD DVD

TOKYO: Toshiba said on Monday it had won support for the HD DVD optical disc standard from Paramount Pictures, Universal Pictures, Warner Bros.


Dodd has the last laugh after marathon wait

WELSHMAN Stephen Dodd began the new European tour season by ending a 15-year wait for his first title. The 38-year-old from Cardiff, who turned professional after becoming


Pats school Ravens in sloppy drubbing: Stay on roll as defense <b>...</b>

Don #39;t talk to the Patriots stats, news about making statements. Don #39;t talk to them about their playoff seeding, winning percentage or schedule down the stretch.


DaimlerChrysler vetoes French plan for single EADS chief

PARIS (AFP) - The German-US automaker DaimlerChrysler has shot down plans by French President Jacques Chirac to place a Frenchman as the sole head of the European Aeronautic Defence and Space Company, the Financial Times said.


South Korea Bans Matsushita Products

South Korea on Monday slapped a temporary ban on the import and sale of plasma display panels made by Japan #39;s Matsushita Electric Industrial Co.


Shoppers offer retailers cheer

Retailers generally had a good showing as the Christmas shopping season began last weekend, but Wal-Mart Stores Inc. dampened the holiday mood with a lump of coal as it reduced its projected sales.


Hong Kong Shares Close Higher

The blue-chip Hang Seng Index rose 171.88 points, or 1.22 percent, to 14,066.91. On Friday, the index had slipped 31.58 points, or 0.2 percent.


European shares edge higher

European shares opened slightly firmer on Monday as the dollar edged off record lows against the euro but Franco-Belgian bank Dexia slipped after rejecting talks regarding a cross-border tie-up.


International Space station crew takes a ride in Soyuz

The two-man crew of the International Space Station left its orbital home today, taking a brief ride in a Russian Soyuz capsule to move the craft from one docking port to another.


Study: Hunters off hook for bison population crash

Big game hunters may be off the hook in the latest twist of a prehistoric whodunit that tries to explain why bison populations sharply crashed thousands of years ago.


Vieira to miss Arsenal #39;s tussle with Chelsea

Arsenal captain Patrick Vieira will miss the champions #39; crunch game against Premier League leaders Chelsea next month through suspension, the Football Association said on Monday.


Brees kept offense cool

If ever there were a time for the Chargers offense to panic, this was it. In fact, it seemed as if the group already was a bit unnerved.


Water sinks Appleby #39;s chances of Open title

Stuart Appleby #39;s golf game was a notch away from its best and that was the difference between winning and finishing second at the Australian Open golf tournament here yesterday.


SE Asia Forges Closer Ties with China, Japan, S.Korea

Leaders of 13 Southeast and Northeast Asian states Monday underlined their determination to turn growing economic power into political influence by establishing a new summit-level grouping.


Beached whales die off Tasmania

More than 100 whales and dolphins have died in two separate beachings in islands off Tasmania in Australia. Ninety-seven pilot whales and bottlenose dolphins died off King Island over the weekend, and several others have died off Maria Island.


Palestinians look for early solution

CAIRO, Egypt -- Mahmoud Abbas, the leading candidate for the Palestinian Authority presidency, said Sunday that Palestinians wanted to begin negotiating final statehood terms with Israel as soon as possible and hoped to reach an accord by the end of next


Sri Lanka attack raises tension

Members of the Sinhala and Tamil communities have clashed again in eastern Sri Lanka after a grenade attack on a bus left one person dead.


Heineken boosts African position

Heineken buys a majority stake in Nigerian brewer Consolidated Breweries, boosting its position in Africa's second-largest market.


Barcelona Testing, Day 3, 26/11/04

A trouble-free day for Franck and Giancarlo as they completed almost 200 laps of Barcelona.


Couples skins Tiger in playoff

Minutes after hitting his ball into the water to blow a chance of winning the Skins Game, Tiger Woods smiled and walked arm-in-arm down the fairway with Fred Couples.


Rescuers Trying to Reach Chinese Miners

Rescuers trying to reach 141 miners trapped by an underground explosion were pumping noxious fumes out of a Chinese coal mine Monday but an official said their chances of survival were  quot;extremely slight.


French Ruling Party Head Sarkozy Resigning as Finance Minister

French Finance Minister Nicolas Sarkozy is resigning when he meets today with Prime Minister Jean- Pierre Raffarin, freeing him to use his new position as head of the ruling party to prepare for the 2007 presidential elections.


Southeast Asian Leaders Open ASEAN Summit in Laos

Southeast Asian leaders have opened a two-day summit in Laos aimed at creating an economic community in six years and expanding free trade agreements with Asia #39;s largest economies.


Shoppers Spend, Retailers Rejoice On the Day After Thanksgiving

The news was good for many retailers over the holiday weekend as enthusiastic consumers took to stores in droves on Black Friday and bought at a higher rate than last year.


HK Shares End Near 45-Mo High On Hutchison, Ppty Stks -2-

HONG KONG (Dow Jones)--Hong Kong shares ended up Monday to close at their highest level in nearly 45 months, led by gains in property counters and blue-chip Hutchison Whampoa.


Premier implies US has mismanaged its currency -report

Chinese Premier Wen Jiabao launched an indirect attack on the United States Sunday for failing to halt the dollar #39;s slide, and vowed not to revalue the renminbi yuan under pressure, according to a published report.


Nun enjoys prison meals with Martha

DENVER - The food at the Federal Corrections Camp in Alderson, W.Va., apparently is nothing to write home about - unless one is eating it with Martha Stewart.


Kazaa trial opens with  #39;massive piracy #39; claim

Kazaa owner Sharman Networks was back in the Australian Federal Court in Sydney today facing allegations that it had not only created the world #39;s largest music piracy network, but also knew for what illegal purpose its software was being put and even


Phones catching hackers attention

Several Web sites recently began offering software promising ringtones and screen savers for certain cell phones. But those who downloaded the software found that it turned


Technology drives toward the future, throws retail items to the <b>...</b>

Now shows can be recorded without anything physical to record them on. The same goes for music. The days of tape-cassette #39;s are long-gone, but CDs could be on their way out, too.


French hostility a chronic problem

PARIS -- US diplomats here respond to Jacques Chirac #39;s continued Yankee-bashing following George W. Bush #39;s re-election by saying the French president is out of step with his people, who are not nearly that anti-American.


Top News ; Jordan #39;s king removes crown prince

Top News News, Amman,Jordan #39;s King Abdullah II has stripped his half-brother, Prince Hamzah, of his title as crown prince and heir to the Hashemite throne in an unexpected move that surprised many Jordanians.


Kazaa trial opens with 'massive piracy' claim

Sharman 'encouraged' illegal file-trading, lawyers allege


Call for action on internet scam

Phone companies are not doing enough to warn about net rogue-dialling scams, says the UK telecoms watchdog.


Myanmar Extends Suu Kyi House Arrest - Opposition (Reuters)

Reuters - Myanmar democracy icon Aung San Suu Kyi\has been told by police she is being held under house arrest\under a law which allows for such detention for up to a year,\an opposition spokesman said Monday.


German Snow White sacked for posing nude (Reuters)

Reuters - A German singer who plays Snow White has lost her job at Dresden's\Christmas market after posing for nude photos in a bathtub, Bild newspaper says.


Device to probe limits of physics

UK physicists finish a crucial element of a device that will probe the forces that shape our Universe.


Beached whales die off Tasmania

More than 100 whales and dolphins die in two separate beachings in islands off Tasmania in Australia.


Sri Lanka attack raises tension

Sinhalas and Tamils clash again in eastern Sri Lanka after a grenade attack on a bus leaves one person dead.


India make first-innings inroads

India reach 48-1 at tea in reply to South Africa's 305 on day two of the second Test.


Call for action on internet scam

Phone companies are not doing enough to warn customers about internet "rogue-dialling" scams, watchdog Icstis warns.


Space Station Astronauts Move Soyuz to Prepare for Spacewalks

The two astronauts aboard the International Space Station moved the Soyuz spacecraft that brought them to the orbiting outpost to prepare for a pair of spacewalks to be conducted next year.


Bolton wobble continues

Four games without a win, and two away matches coming up before a home date with a resurgent Manchester City, have put a new complexion on their season.


French agriculture minister to take finance portfolio from Sarkozy (AFP)

AFP - France's agriculture minister, Herv #195; #169; Gaymard, will replace Nicolas Sarkozy as finance and economy minister following the latter's resignation to take up the helm of the governing UMP party, officials said.


The downward spiral

It #39;s hard to believe that only a month ago, the New York Giants were 5-2 and sitting a realistic two games behind the Philadelphia Eagles in the NFC East race.


Patriots #39; defense leaves Ravens all wet

Jarvis Green capped the Patriots #39; domination when he recov ered the slip pery ball in the end zone against a team known for its own defensive touchdowns.


Romanian ruling party lead shrinks

Romania #39;s ruling ex-communists scored a wafer-thin victory over opposition centrists in Sunday #39;s parliamentary vote, according to partial official results.


Powerful earthquake hits northern Japan, triggers tsunami

A powerful earthquake with a preliminary magnitude of 7.1 struck Japan #39;s northern island of Hokkaido early Monday, swaying buildings and triggering a tsunami that lashed the shore, officials said.


Sea Knowledge Not Very Deep

An ambitious project to catalog life in the ocean shows that so far we've just scratched the surface. By Stephen Leahy.


Web Won't Let Government Hide

Advocates for open government are creating search engines and websites to let citizens peek into the inner workings of official agencies. Now more than ever, they say, openness is essential to self-government. By Ryan Singel.


Dumbing Down a Smartwatch

Researchers are developing an RFID-enabled watch system to help the memory-challenged find their stuff. But making sure it doesn't track too much is a big privacy concern. By Michael Bradbury.


The Next Giant Leap

Buzz Aldrin, the second man to walk on the moon, talks space and the future with James Cameron for Wired magazine.


Swiss: Limited Stem Cell Approval

A measure that forbids cloning human embryos but allows scientists to extract stem cells from unwanted embryos for medical research is approved by Swiss voters. The restrictive legislation is similar to that of the Netherlands and Spain.


Sequester That Carbon Dioxide

Disused Texas oil field reservoirs may become storage areas for greenhouse gases emitted by burning fossil fuels. Known as carbon sequestration, the technology captures the gas that can linger in the atmosphere for decades.


TiVo Their Way: Ads, Copy Brakes

Plans for pop-up ads and restrictions on copying have some consumer advocates wondering about Tivo's commitment to customer control. The company says it has to bow some to Hollywood and advertiser interests.


Passport Privacy Protection? Nope

The Bush administration opposes security measures recommended by privacy advocates for new microchip-equipped passports, saying it's concerned for the safety of American travelers. Critics say the chips are good for identity thieves and government snoops.


Reliance Energy Board to meet tomorrow

The Board of Directors of Reliance Energy Ltd. would meet this week to consider the resignations of 6 of its 14 directors, a statement from the country #39;s second-largest power utility said.


Australian current account deficit hits record

Australias current account deficit widened to a record level in the third quarter, putting downward pressure on the nations fast-growing economy and sending the countrys currency lower.


IBM, Sony firm up Playstation Cell chip plans

THE CELL CHIP which is the basis for the Playstation 3 will go into limited production next year, said IBM and Sony. It won #39;t go into mass production until 2006, but IBM will show off the chip at a chip conference in February next year.


TOKYO--(BUSINESS WIRE)--Nov. 29, 2004--Toshiba Corporation

a indiqu ce jour que la socit a reu diffrents engagements de soutien de Paramount Pictures, Universal Pictures, New Line Cinema, et Warner Bros.


Microsoft hunts for fake XP

Microsoft is hoping to beat the fraudsters and trace large-scale counterfeiters of Windows XP OEM with a free checking and replacement scheme for users.


Gerrard sets sights on Premiership surge

Liverpool captain Steven Gerrard says Sunday #39;s win over Arsenal can help galvanise the Reds for a run up the English Premiership table.


Oh brother! He stripped him off

AMMAN: Jordan #39;s King Abdullah II has stripped his half-brother, Prince Hamzah, of his title as crown prince and heir to the Hashemite throne in an unexpected move that surprised many Jordanians.


Democracy leader Aung San Suu Kyi house arrest extended: party (AFP)

AFP - Myanmar's detained democracy leader Aung San Suu Kyi has had her period of house arrest extended by another year, her opposition party and officials said.


Mortgages fall as house market cools

Home loan approvals in October fell to their lowest levels in nearly five years, according to figures released this morning by the Bank of England, confirming that the housing


Roechlings Sell Rheinmetall Stake for \$743 Million, People Say

Germany #39;s Roechling family completed the sale of its stake in weapons-maker Rheinmetall AG to institutional investors for 561 million euros (\$743 million), people familiar with the transaction said.


US holiday leaves oil waiting for a lead

Singapore - Crude oil futures fell on Monday in muted Asian trade with players hoping for a fresh lead when the US market reopens later after a four-day closure, dealers said.


Kmart, Sears merger could cost area jobs

The monster merger between Troy, Mich.-based Kmart Holding Corp. and Hoffman Estates, Ill.-based Sears Roebuck  amp; Co. may have local impact.


Music companies sue Sharman over Kazaa

Five record companies are suing Sharman Networks, creator of the file-swapping technology Kazaa, for music piracy in Australia #39;s Federal Court.


Carter left on TE on key play

If Andre Carter never makes it as a standout in pass coverage, he will excel as a diplomat. Carter, the 49ers #39; best pure pass rusher, neatly sidestepped the


Australian labels sue file sharer

Australian record companies, including the world's four major labels, are suing the firm behind the Kazaa file-sharing software.


Government 'must reduce spending'

Whatever party wins the next general election will have to either cut spending or raise taxes, says the CBI, which wants the former.


US shoppers fail to give thanks to Wal-Mart

WAL-MART, the worlds largest retailer, has cut its sales forecast, in the run-up to Christmas, by more than half after suffering a fall in the number of shoppers passing through its doors


Roechling Sells Its Stake in Rheinmetall

Roechling Industrie Verwaltung GmbH said Monday it has sold its majority stake in German defense and industrial group Rheinmetall AG for an undisclosed sum.


Hollywood majors back Toshiba DVD

Toshiba said on Monday that four major Hollywood studios had thrown their crucial weight behind High Definition DVD (HD-DVD), one of two disc formats contending to be the standard in next-generation DVDs.


Best antivirus software for 2005

Viruses and worms just keep getting smarter and more devious. While the best defense is not opening e-mail attachments, you still need a solid antivirus program.


Raiders win snow bowl

quot;Dead over the middle, quot; he said. And in he came, all 6-foot-8 and 345 pounds of him, to block a 43-yard Denver field goal attempt with 31 seconds to play, secure a 25-24 victory for the Oakland


Loftier goal for Eagles

Koy Detmer took a knee for the final time, the clock struck 0:00 and the Eagles had won it and done it. They had cut down the Giants 27-6 with a run of 20 straight points


Romania Vote Marred by Fraud Charges

Exit polls in key Romanian elections are showing a likely win for the ruling Social Democrats. But as in Ukraine, the opposition has demanded an investigation into voting irregularities.


As flat-panels oust older TVs, disposal fears arise (USATODAY.com)

USATODAY.com - Soaring sales of flat-panel televisions this holiday are expected to spark one of tech's toughest environmental challenges: disposing of millions of old, toxic TVs. Almost 4 million flat-panel TVs are expected to be sold worldwide this year, says researcher DisplaySearch.


Diplomat: Rwanda Troops in Congo (AP)

AP - Rwanda has sent thousands of troops into Congo in recent days, a Western diplomat in Congo's capital said Monday, but U.N. officials said they had no evidence of such an incursion.


IBM project puts supercomputer on a chip (SiliconValley.com)

SiliconValley.com - IBM today plans to disclose details of a project to put a supercomputer on a chip.


Confirmation Hearings for Rice Pushed Back (Los Angeles Times)

Los Angeles Times - At the White House's request, confirmation hearings for Condoleezza Rice as secretary of State will not begin until Congress reconvenes in January, the chairman of the Senate Foreign Relations Committee said.


Germany probes army abuse claims

Germany's defence ministry investigates claims of abuse of soldiers by superior officers at a unit in Bavaria.


IBM, Sony to detail 'Cell' PS3 CPU February 2005

Massively parallel, 64-bit POWER-based processor to debut at ISSCC


Automakers Tout Hybrids, Power Rules

General Motors Corp., which sells  the gas-gobbling Hummer, urges Americans to "Get Green" on a special Web site and is producing advertising campaigns trumpeting hydrogen fuel and gas-electric hybrid vehicles.


Holiday Shoppers Off to a Fast Start

Holiday shoppers spent 10 percent more Friday than they did a year ago, according to early reports, but Wal-Mart Stores Inc. dampened hopes for a strong start to the key retail season by slashing its November sales forecast by more than half.


Bush to Change Economic Team

The president wants to tap prominent figures outside the administration to help sell rewrites of Social Security and the tax laws to Congress and the country, White House aides and advisers said over the weekend.


Computer Analysis Is Bringing Science to Art

Some computers can beat grandmasters at chess. <br>Others can compose music.


Family Tree Maker 2005 Deluxe; Law   Order: Justice Is Served; WWE Smackdown! Vs. Raw

The 12th edition of this genealogy program comes in three editions -- Standard, Deluxe and Collector's -- but the core program is identical in all.


India 'overruns' separatist camps

The Indian army says it has overrun scores of camps in a four-week drive against separatists in the north-east.


Australian labels sue file sharer

Record labels are suing the firm behind leading file-sharing software Kazaa, in the latest round of the fight over copyright. Sharman Networks, based in Australia but registered in the Pacific island state


Russian-US Crew Re-Docks Soyuz Spacecraft at ISS After Half-Hour <b>...</b>

The US-Russian crew of the international space station successfully re-docked a spaceship at a new port on the station Monday in preparation for two spacewalks early next year.


UPDATE 3-Aggressive Sehwag leads positive Indian reply

Opener Virender Sehwag cracked a rapid unbeaten 82 as India rushed to 129 for one in reply to South Africa #39;s first innings 305 on the day two of the second and final test on Monday.


Official: Fear Factor Adding to Oil Price

Saudi Arabia #39;s oil minister Ali Naimi said Monday that the  quot;fear factor quot; over supplies has added \$10 to \$15 a barrel to the price of oil and reiterated that his country is working toward lifting its sustainable oil production capacity.


S Korea bans imports of Matsushita plasma panels

South Korea on Monday imposed a temporary import ban on plasma display panels made by Matsushita, the Japanese consumer electronics maker, after LG Electronics complained its rival had violated its intellectual property rights.


Dexia shelves proposed merger with Sanpaolo

LONDON, November 29 (newratings.com) - The board of the Franco-Belgian Bank, Dexia (DXB.ETR), has rejected the companys proposed 37 billion merger with Italys Sanpaolo (PAO), following increasing opposition to the proposal by a group of its key


Toshiba Wins Support for HD DVD from 4 Film Studios

Toshiba Corp. said on Monday it had won support for the HD DVD optical disc standard from Warner Bros. Studios, Paramount Pictures, Universal Pictures


Cell Processor Unveiled

Specifically, the companies confirmed that Cell is a multicore chip comprising a 64-bit Power processor core and multiple synergistic processor cores capable of massive floating point processing.


Striking up digital video search

com November 29, 2004, 4:00 AM PT. This priority retains its ranking at number five as more and more companies deploy Web services to share business logic, data and processes with each other and with clients.


The Cost of Virus Protection Rises

Gasoline and milk aren #39;t the only things that cost more these days. The cost of keeping your antivirus software current has been rising, also.


Diouf charged by FA with improper conduct

Bolton striker El Hadji Diouf has been charged with improper conduct following an incident in Saturday #39;s Premier League match against Portsmouth, the Football Association (FA) said on Monday.


Iraq forces kill 17 in  #39;triangle of death #39;

Iraqi forces backed by US and British troops killed 17 gunmen and wounded nine others in battles in the so-called  quot;triangle of death quot; south of Baghdad.


Head of British charity expelled from Sudan

The Sudanese Government has expelled the head of Save the Children from the country and threatened the director of Oxfam with a similar fate today.


Finnish labour market reform vital to pay for ageing population: OECD (AFP)

AFP - The Organization for Economic Co-operation and Development called on Finland in a report to reform its labor market to boost employment, necessary to cope with an ageing population.


Easymobile Closer to  #39;Lean, Low-Cost Service #39; Launch

Moves by easyJet founder Stelios Haji-Ioannou to launch a low-cost mobile service were boosted today by an agreement to rent airtime from T-Mobile.


Newcastle 1, Everton 1 (D,Post)

DETERMINATION, character and resolve are the usual words reeled off when talk turns to praising David Moyes #39;s latest Goodison revival.


Christmas trees crop up all over

TRAVERSE CITY - It may not replace cherries as the region #39;s signature farm crop, but the area #39;s Christmas tree industry is sprucing up all the same.


Virgin plans may clash with govt policy

The present policy of not allowing a foreign carrier to hold stake in domestic airlines has put a question mark on Virgin Atlantic chief Richard Branson #39;s plans to acquire equity in private Indian airline companies.


Suicide Bomber Attacks Iraqi Police, Kills 12 (Reuters)

Reuters - A suicide car bomber plowed into\policemen waiting to collect their salary at a police station\west of Ramadi Monday, killing 12 people in the latest\insurgent attack on Iraq's beleaguered security forces.


Iran to Escape Censure After Nuclear Cat-And-Mouse (Reuters)

Reuters - Iran looked set to avoid being reported\to the United Nations Security Council on Monday after\reaffirming its commitment to a deal meant to reassure the\world it is not trying to build a nuclear bomb.


Sudan expels representatives of two British aid groups (AFP)

AFP - The Sudanese government declared the representatives of two British humanitarian organizations persona non-grata and gave them 48 hours to leave the country.


Football: Diouf on spitting charge

The FA charges Bolton's El-Hadji Diouf with improper conduct after he spat at Portsmouth's Arjan de Zeeuw.


Strong dollar  #39;to blame #39;

TREASURER Peter Costello warned yesterday that exporters faced a challenging year, blaming the strength of the Australian dollar for an uncomfortably large current account deficit.


The Bonus: A Rise in the Number Wall St. Crunches the Most

The holiday season has arrived and with it the ultimate in year-end giving, bonus season on Wall Street. Top executives of the leading financial firms are now spending


Toshiba wins backing for HD-DVD

Toshiba has won a major victory in the battle to determine the standard for next-generation DVDs with the endorsement by four Hollywood studios of its High Definition-DVD format.


The Internet Column

Beware the web, beware even of known and trusted web sites that you have been visiting for years. For even the most trustworthy of organisations, operating the most trustworthy of web sites


Cicadas #39; Overall Effect on Trees

That appears to be the conclusion of research in this week #39;s issue of Science that assesses the effects of 17-year periodical cicadas on forest ecology.


Blacks Caps stumble early in chase

New Zealand was in early trouble during its second innings midway through day four of the second cricket Test against Australia at the Adelaide Oval.


Spain: Madrid and Valencia both win and consolidate their <b>...</b>

MADRID, Nov 28 (SW) - A few magic minutes early in the second half were enough for Real Madrid to decide their home match against Levante.


Experts debate over whale strandings

A MASSIVE rescue operation is under way off the southeast coast of Tasmania after two mysterious strandings of long-finned pilot whales and bottle-nosed dolphins within


SE Asia Forges Closer Ties with China, Japan, S.Korea

\

 By Ed Cropley

 VIENTIANE (Reuters) - Leaders of 13 Southeast and Northeast\Asian states Monday underlined their determination to turn\growing economic power into political influence by establishing\a new summit-level grouping.


Dollar Rests After Sharp Losses (Reuters)

Reuters - The dollar held above last week's record\low against the euro and 4-1/2 year lows against the yen\Monday, winning some respite after 10 consecutive weeks of\losses.


Eurostocks Near 28-Month Peak (Reuters)

Reuters - European shares flirted with 28-month\highs on Monday, buoyed by a bounce back in auto groups after\their recent trouncing due to the weak dollar.


Stephen B. Shepard to Retire from BusinessWeek; Expected to Lead <b>...</b>

NEW YORK, Nov. 29 /PRNewswire-FirstCall/ -- After 20 years leading BusinessWeek magazine -- a tenure defined by editorial excellence, circulation growth and global expansion -- Stephen B. Shepard, Editor-in-Chief, will retire effective April 1, 2005.


Stocks Set for Firmer Open; Retail Eyed

Stock futures rose sharply on Monday, pointing to a strong open, as investors pinned hopes on a solid start to the holiday shopping season, while the dollar pulled back from record lows and oil eased slightly.


Turnpike turns to temps

With smooth holiday travel along its 531 miles of road, the Pennsylvania Turnpike will continue to cycle temporary workers and managers


Net music swap firm a  #39;pirate #39;

A SYDNEY software company painted itself as a defender of the interests of millions of music fans when in fact it was the world #39;s biggest music pirate, a court was told yesterday.


HD-DVD picks up Hollywood support

By Martyn Williams, IDG News Service and Paul Kallender, IDG News Service. The group supporting the HD-DVD optical disc format for high-definition video has received a boost in its battle against the rival


High-tech consortium to challenge Intel #39;s chip dominance

IBM, Sony and Toshiba are joining forces to challenge Intel, creating a new computer chip called Cell. The three companies have been working together on Cell since 2001.


Oram relishes the tough Aussie challenge

Adelaide: New Zealand all-rounder Jacob Oram said playing in the lopsided series against Australia  quot;leaves for dead quot; thrashing Bangladesh twice in Tests last month.


Real Madrid stays in touch of leader Barcelona in the Spanish <b>...</b>

Four goals in 11 minutes allowed Real Madrid to destroy Bernd Schuster #39;s Levante and win over some frustrated fans as it secured second place in the Spanish league standings.


Sehwag slams 82 in Indian reply

CALCUTTA, India - Indian opener Virender Sehwag slammed a sparkling 82 not out to ensure the base for a big total in reply to South Africa #39;s modest score in the second and final Test.


Burger named IRB player of the year

Schalk Burger completed a mesmerising season by winning the International Rugby Board (IRB #39;s) Player of the Year in London #39;s Royal Lancaster Hotel last night.


Hope fading for China miners

More than a day and a half after a deadly gas explosion ripped through a coal mine in northwest China, rescuers are losing hope of finding 141 people still trapped underground.


Sudan expels British charity head

The head of Save the Children in Sudan has been expelled from the country over claims that the charity breached Sudanese law by claiming warplanes dropped bombs near an aid centre in Darfur.


Account deficit blows out to \$13.7 bn

MARK COLVIN: It #39;s been a day of records on the economic front, but they #39;re not the sort of achievements the Federal Government likes to trumpet.


No-frills service could see prices drop

LONDON (CBS.MW) -- T-Mobile is to act as carrier for a web-based UK mobile phone service set up by Denmark #39;s TDC and the EasyGroup that is to launch in March.


Giants are now playing for next year

When Tom Coughlin growled, gritted his teeth and clenched those fists his first day on the job, he vowed these Fasselian free falls were finished.


Rugby: Burger named Player of the Year

LONDON : Schalk Burger was named Player of the Year at the International Rugby Board (IRB) awards ceremony as South Africa scooped three awards.


Pampling in lead at Australian Open

SYDNEY, Australia -- Australias Rod Pampling got off to a rough start Saturday and finished with a 3-over-par 74, leaving him one stroke ahead of countryman Richard Green entering the last round of the centennial Australian Open.


Chirac loyalist takes finance job

Herve Gaymard, farm minister and loyal backer of French President Jacques Chirac, takes over the finance ministry from Nicolas Sarkozy.


Top clubs 'should run UK football'

Large football clubs should not be concerned about those struggling at the lower end of the leagues, says Newcastle United chairman Freddy Shepherd.


Update 2: Crude Oil Futures Ease Slightly

Crude oil futures eased slightly Monday but remained close to the \$50 a barrel level amid lingering concerns about shortages of heating oil at the start of the Northern Hemisphere winter.


Telekom Austria Plans to Buy Mobiltel for \$1.5 Bln (Update7)

Telekom Austria AG plans to buy Bulgaria #39;s largest wireless company, MobilTel EAD, for 1.15 billion euros (\$1.5 billion), adding 3 million subscribers in a nation where less than half the population has a cellular phone.


Martha has a jailhouse flock - nun

popular with prisoners and guards who give her  quot;kid-glove quot; treatment, a new report says. In the seven weeks since the diva of


GDP in Q3 grows 6.3

DESPITE the budget deficit, continued increases in oil and consumer prices, the economy, as measured by gross domestic product, grew by 6.3 percent in the third


Sony Discloses Details on Computer Chip (AP)

AP - Sony Corp. plans to begin selling home servers for broadband and high-definition TV systems powered by a revolutionary new computer chip in 2006, the Japanese electronics and entertainment giant said Monday.


Toshiba Announces the Next-Generation DVD Format Endorsement by <b>...</b>

TOKYO --(Business Wire)-- Nov. 29, 2004 -- Toshiba Corporation disclosed today that the company has received separate commitments of support from Paramount Pictures, Universal Pictures, New Line Cinema, and Warner Bros.


Sony Discloses Details on Computer Chip

Yoshihide Fujii, president and chief executive officer of Tokyoba Digital Media Network Co., speaks during a press conference in Tokyo, Monday, Nov. 29, 2004.


Pirate for genuine XP trade

BRITISH owners of pirated copies of Microsoft #39;s Windows XP operating system can trade them in for the real thing as part of a bid by the software giant to fight counterfeiting.


Toshiba Wins Support for HD DVD from 4 Film Studios (Reuters)

Reuters - Toshiba Corp. said on Monday it had won\support for the HD DVD optical disc standard from Warner Bros.\Studios, Paramount Pictures, Universal Pictures and New Line\Cinema, advancing its cause in the battle for the\next-generation DVD.


Russia Captures Fed Cup Tennis Title

Favored Russia has captured the Fed Cup tennis title for the first time, with a dramatic 3-2 win over defending champion France in Moscow.


Green slams tough courses

RICHARD Green is campaigning for a fair go for golfers in a bid to inject more excitement into home tournaments this summer. Green blasted the brutal course set-up for last week #39;s Australian


Spain fear Bryan brothers in Davis Cup final

The United States doubles pairing of Mike and Bob Bryan could pose as big a challenge to Spain #39;s Davis Cup final hopes as world number two Andy Roddick, a Spanish team coach said on Monday.


FA charge Diouf over spitting incident

LONDON, Nov 29 (SW) - The English Football Association has confirmed Bolton Wanderers striker El Hadji Diouf had been charged with improper conduct.


Iraqi Red Crescent Sets Up Relief Center (AP)

AP - The Iraqi Red Crescent has established a relief center in Fallujah, Iraq, but continued fighting between U.S.-led forces and insurgents makes it impossible for doctors and nurses to move around and treat the wounded, the international Red Cross said Monday.


GPL Could Put Heat on Microsoft (Ziff Davis)

Ziff Davis - Efforts under way to revise the popular GNU General Public License could put additional pressure on Microsoft by the time it tries to push its long-awaited Windows upgrades out the door.


Breaking Down the Orange Bowl Match-Up (AP)

AP - Southern California and Oklahoma both have a Heisman Trophy winner at quarterback, an All-American tailback and swift defenses that run similar schemes. A look at how the No. 1 Trojans and No. 2 Sooners will match up in the Orange Bowl on Tuesday night:


Eagles to Weigh Playoff Pressure Over Week (AP)

AP - The Philadelphia Eagles once again have home field advantage throughout the NFC playoffs. And once again, nothing less than a trip to the Super Bowl will be considered a success.


Report Links Ex-TV Manager, Saddam's Son (AP)

AP - A videotape found in Baghdad after the ouster of Saddam Hussein shows a former manager for Al-Jazeera television thanking one of Saddam's sons for his support, the newspaper Asharq al-Awsat says.


Stocks Set to Rise; Retail and Apple Eyed (Reuters)

Reuters - Stock futures rose on Monday, pointing\to a firmer open, as investors pinned hopes on a solid start to\the holiday shopping season, while Apple Computer Inc \was helped by another brokerage raising its price target on the\stock.


Asia Faces Living Nightmare from Climate Change (Reuters)

Reuters - The weather predictions for Asia in\2050 read like a script from a doomsday movie.


Hillary Opposed to Highway to South Pole (AP)

AP - New Zealander Sir Edmund Hillary, the first man to climb Mount Everest and the first to drive a vehicle to the South Pole, described a U.S. highway to the pole as "terrible."


Creative Zen Micro 5GB music player

Reg review Mobile phone styling comes to the MP3 world


Screensaver tackles spam websites

A screensaver targeting spam-related websites could help drive spammers out of business.


Intelligence Community Looks at Convera Software

Software provider Convera Corp. of Vienna was awarded \$800,000 by a CIA-funded private-venture group to expedite the development of its search-and categorization capability.


Company Hopes to Take Outsourcing to a New Level: Africa

Many large companies have reaped the economic benefits of outsourcing in recent years. Karim Morsli is trying to make money bringing those same advantages to small and medium-sized businesses -- while also spurring economic growth in Africa.


U.S. Opposes Passport Privacy Protections

The Bush administration opposed security measures for new microchip-equipped passports that privacy advocates contended were needed to prevent identity theft, government snooping or a terror attack, according to State Department documents released Friday.


Toshiba Wins Support for HD DVD from 4 Film Studios

\

 By Kiyoshi Takenaka and Nathan Layne

 TOKYO (Reuters) - Toshiba Corp. said on Monday it had won\support for the HD DVD optical disc standard from Warner Bros.\Studios, Paramount Pictures, Universal Pictures and New Line\Cinema, advancing its cause in the battle for the\next-generation DVD.


Australia Music Industry Decries Kazaa

Lawyers for Australia's recording industry branded the popular Kazaa file-swapping network "an engine of copyright piracy to a degree of magnitude never before seen" as they launched a court battle to shut down Kazaa's illegal activities.


'Ringback' Tones May Be Next Big Thing

Ring tones are so yesterday. If wireless companies have their way, the next multibillion-dollar surprise in the cellular business will be "Ringback" tones.


Asteroid named after professor

Scientists name an asteroid after the professor responsible for the failed Beagle 2 mission to Mars.


Asian equities higher as dollar claws back

Asian equities were higher as the dollar clawed above last week #39;s record low against the euro and firmed against the yen, sending shipping and steel shares higher.


GDP growth likely healthy

Despite cautionary words from Bank of Canada Governor David Dodge last week about the impact of the rising dollar, Canadian gross domestic product likely grew at a healthy 3.5 clip in the third quarter due to strong consumer spending.


CELL Prototype Announced By Sony, Toshiba, and IBM

In two joint press releases, Sony Corporation, Sony Computer Entertainment Inc., Toshiba, and IBM, have today announced the creation of the prototype CELL processor, which is currently being developed in Austin Texas.


Expedition 10 Relocates Soyuz

The Expedition 10 crewmembers successfully relocated a Soyuz spacecraft at the International Space Station this morning, setting the stage for their upcoming spacewalks.


Sony keeps PSP production low, focuses on PS2

Low initial shipment figures for Sony #39;s forthcoming PlayStation Portable are down to a decision to focus on manufacturing the profitable PlayStation 2 hardware, according to a spokesperson for the Japanese giant.


Creative Zen Micro

Le Zen Micro te donne la possibilit de choisir ta couleur prfre. Tu prfres le rose au noir ou gris ? Fais ton choix entre toutes les couleurs que le Zen micro peut toffrir.


Microsoft upgrade knocks out 80,000 government PCs

Some 80,000 computers at the Department for Work and Pensions went down during  #39;a routine software upgrade #39; of its Microsoft machines this week.


Toffeemen  #39;ecstatic #39; with a point

Everton boss David Moyes was full of praise for his hard-working side after Lee Carsley #39;s free-kick goal saw them claim a point from their visit to St James #39; Park yesterday, writes Miles Starforth.


Rugby-Burger named best player as Springboks sweep IRB awards

Flanker Schalk Burger was named the International Rugby Board (IRB) #39;s player of the year as South Africa swept the top honours at a ceremony in London.


Middle East ; Iran still striving for centrifuge exemption

Middle East News, Iran said yesterday that it was still discussing with Europe on its demand on the exemption of 20 centrifuges from the suspension, sniffing at the prospect of the referral of its nuclear case to the UN Security Council.


Bombing of Kazakh president #39;s office  #39;hooliganism #39; not  #39;terrorism #39; <b>...</b>

Terrorism wasn #39;t involved in a pair of bomb blasts that rocked the pro-presidential party #39;s office in Kazakhstan #39;s commercial capital, police said Monday.


Chile Will Give Pensions to Torture Victims Under Dictatorship

Chile #39;s government said that tens of thousands of people were tortured during the dictatorship of Augusto Pinochet and that the victims will receive reparations.


IBM opens on demand tech center

Hoping literally to bring users more in touch with its on demand technologies, IBM on Monday announced the opening of a new technology center in Gaithersburg, Md., to help users implement a number of different orchestration and provisioning capabilities.


Sony, IBM, and Toshiba reveal more plans for Cell chip

The four companies developing the Cell microprocessor released a few more details about the chip on Monday -- and with them a surprise: first generation versions of the device won't be built on a cutting edge production technology into which the companies have sunk billions of dollars, but on a technology already in widespread use today.


Microsoft and Sun plan Webcast to detail cooperation

Those wondering what this year's surprise cooperation deal between Microsoftand Sun Microsystems will actually produce should get an update in coming weeks, when the companies detail some of their interoperability work in areas like Web services, directory services, and security.


Russia welcomes foreign bids for assets of embattled Yukos oil giant (AFP)

AFP - Russia said it would welcome Indian and other companies bidding for the assets of Russian oil giant Yukos, the country's biggest oil exporter, due to be sold off later this month.


Satellite failure hits U.S. broadband services

The failure of a communications satellite on Sunday has knocked out broadband services supplied by StarBand Communications, according to a statement posted on the company's web site.


Industry group might buy Commerce One patents

A move is afoot to form an industry consortium to buy about 40 patents that are among the assets of bankrupt Commerce One.


Shopping Search Week 2004!

Shopping has emerged as one of the most important vertical categories in the specialized search arena, for searchers, advertisers and merchants alike.  This week we take a look at what's new and improved in shopping and product comparison search engines.


Tutu and Mbeki in war of words

The row between South African President Thabo Mbeki and Archbishop Desmond Tutu worsens.


Reform candidate enters PA race

Palestinian democracy activist Mustafa Barghouti joins the race to replace Yasser Arafat as Palestinian president.


First look at PlayStation 3 chip

The chip that will power the PlayStation 3 is said to be up to 10 times faster than current processors.


North Carolina Cruises

Playing their fifth game in eight days, the Tar Heels get 23 points from Jawad Williams to beat Southern California, 97-65.


Ukraine Supreme Court Opens Hearing Into Vote Fraud Charges

As the court met on whether the election results should be nullified, there were two other significant developments.


Is Microsoft creating tomorrow's IE security holes today?

Opinion Seeds of disaster


U.N. Agency Welcomes Iran's Nuclear Halt

The International Atomic Energy Agency adopted a resolution today welcoming Iran's suspension of its nuclear program but said it would continue to monitor it.


Judge Orders Ex-State Senator Back to Jail

A judge ordered former state Sen. Guy Velella and four others to return to jail today, but the defense promised an immediate appeal.


AstraZeneca Gets Added Nexium FDA OK

Drug maker AstraZeneca PLC reported Monday that the Food and Drug Administration approved its heartburn medication Nexium for the treatment of gastric ulcers associated with nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs, or NSAIDs.


BellSouth Names Feidler Operating Chief

BellSouth Corp. on Monday said Mark Feidler will become chief operating officer on Jan. 1 amid a reshuffling of several higher-level executives.


Dollar Firms as Focus Turns to US Data

The dollar gained tentatively on Monday, recovering from last week #39;s record low against the euro and a 4-1/2-year trough against the yen as traders turned their sights to US economic reports due later in the week.


GDP expands 6.5 in Jan-Sept

The Philippine economy maintained its solid growth in the first nine months of the year as gross domestic product (GDP) expanded by 6.5 percent, well on track of the governments full-year target.


UnitedHealth to Buy Definity Health

UnitedHealth Group Inc. (UNH.N: Quote, Profile, Research) on Monday said it would buy Definity Health Corp. for \$300 million, as the No.


Atari names James Caparro president, CEO

NEW YORK (Dow Jones/AP) -- Video-game maker Atari Inc. said Monday it named James Caparro president and chief executive officer, effective immediately.


BusinessWeek editor to CUNY

Stephen B. Shepard, the longtime editor in chief of BusinessWeek magazine, will retire in April to become the founding dean of the new Graduate School of Journalism at the City University of New York.


EADS plans decision on A350 on December 10: Airbus

PARIS : The European Aeronautic Defence and Space Company (EADS) will reach a decision on launching the A350, a possible competitor to Boeing #39;s planned fuel-efficient 7E7, on December 10, a spokeswoman for the European consortium Airbus Industrie said.


RIL Borad justifies superior power to CMD

MUMBAI: Reliance on Monday asserted that there was no violation of law or memorandum of association by its Board in according superior power to Chairman and Managing Director Mukesh Ambani.


Univision drops suit against Nielsen

NEW YORK -- Spanish-language broadcaster Univision Communications Inc. on Monday said it has dropped its lawsuit against Nielsen Media Research over a new TV rating system Univision claimed miscounts its viewers.


Russia May Repay Up to \$10Bln in Foreign Debt in 2005  Finance <b>...</b>

Russia may allocate up to \$10 billion from its stabilization fund to repay foreign debt, Finance Minister Aleksei Kudrin told reporters at a press conference held in the Russian news agency RIA-Novosti on Monday.


EU Nations Cling to Biotech Bans on Monsanto, Syngenta, Bayer

Monsanto Co., Syngenta AG and Bayer AG failed to win wider access to the European Union #39;s biotechnology market when a demand that five nations lift bans on some gene-modified foods allowed elsewhere in the EU was blocked.