KABUL, Afghanistan -- Vote counting started yesterday in Afghanistan's landmark election, widely expected to install US-backed interim leader Hamid Karzai as the war-ravaged country's first popularly chosen president.

Vote counting begins in Afghan election


Reuters - Poland said Friday it plans to reduce\the number of its troops in Iraq from early next year and will\not remain there

Poland to Reduce Number of Troops in Iraq (Reuters)


There's no such thing as a free lunch. And soon, there may be no such thing as an ad-free RSS feed, either, as publishers add advertisements to their feeds in hopes of making money through the popular content-aggregating technology. By Cyrus Farivar.

RSS Feeds Hunger for More Ads


Innovators take note: The folks behind the X Prize vow there will soon be more competitions in several disciplines. Also: The da Vinci team presses ahead in Canada.... Rubicon team plans another launch attempt. By Dan Brekke.

Spawn of X Prize on Horizon


That #39;s the state of the Boston Red Sox pitching rotation after Schilling was scratched from his scheduled Game 5 start because of a sore ankle.

Schilling will not start Game 5 of ALCS


IBM has expanded the top end of its eServer range with three multiple-processor systems aimed at datacentres and large enterprise clients.

IBM launches top-end Power5 servers


Reuters - President Bush and Democratic Sen.\John Kerry began a 19-day sprint to the Nov. 2 election on\Thursday in the swing state of Nevada, where the White House\rivals renewed their fight over who offered the best leadership\for the middle class.

Bush, Kerry Start Last Campaign Dash in Nevada (Reuters)


Game 3 tonight in Fenway Park, but rain is forecast; Boston learns Schilling may be done for postseason. BY RONALD BLUM ASSOCIATED PRESS WRITER.

Red Sox need Arroyo


Mears wins Busch pole at Lowe #39;s. Casey Mears won the second Busch series pole of his career, earning the top starting position in qualifying for the SpongeBob 300.

Despite Discord, Biffle and Busch to remain teammates


UC Berkeley -- On Jan. 14, 2005, the Huygens probe will plow into the orange atmosphere of Saturn's moon, Titan, becoming the first spacecraft to attempt to land on a moon in our solar system since the Soviet Union's Luna 24 touched down on Earth's moon in 1976...

Scientists Prepare for Huygens' Plunge into Titan


NEW YORK (Reuters) - Pfizer Inc. <A HREF=

Pfizer Hikes Warning on Bextra Skin Risk


JABALYA REFUGEE CAMP, Gaza Strip (Reuters) - Israel said on  Friday it was easing a crushing offensive that has killed more  than 100 Palestinians since tanks rumbled into northern Gaza 16  days ago to stop cross-border rocket attacks.

Israel Says Will Scale Back Gaza Offensive


WASHINGTON - Shoppers got their buying groove back last month, propelling sales at the nation's retailers by a strong 1.5 percent. It was the best showing since March...

September Retail Sales Up by 1.5 Percent


Shoppers were out last month, propelling sales at the nation #39;s retailers by a strong 1.5, best showing since March. The sizable gain reported by the Commerce Department on Friday came

Shoppers return in September, sales up 1.5


Until the final 11 minutes of the Rams-Seahawks game last week, Seattle #39;s visit to New England this Sunday looked like one of those overhyped matchups labelled  quot;Super Bowl Preview quot; or  quot;Streak-Ender.

NFL Preview: Another streak mark looming for Patriots


Annika Sorenstam may be the reigning queen of the LPGA Tour, but its Grace Park who seems to be royalty in the desert these days.

Desert turns into Parks place


TAIPEI A strong earthquake in the Pacific off Taiwan rocked the island #39;s northeast on Friday, damaging buildings and injuring several people, officials said.

Earthquake at sea gives Taiwan a jolt


Crude oil fell from yesterday #39;s record of \$54.88 a barrel in New York amid concern that sustained high prices may slow economies and reduce demand for energy.

Oil Falls From Record on Concern High Prices May Slow Growth


NEW YORK (Reuters) - Delta Air Lines Inc. <A HREF=

Delta Sees Much Wider 3rd-Qtr Loss


BANGALORE, DEC 5: Russian President Vladimir Putin has called upon India and Russia to work together on innovative technologies with younger generation taking the lead.

India, Russia must work together on new tech: Putin


INDIANAPOLIS - ATA Airlines announced temporary layoffs Thursday throughout its system amid speculation that the struggling airline was in merger talks.

ATA to temporarily lay off 156 employees


Every week, the experts of FOX NFL Sunday will candidly reveal their observations and make their opinions known as they prepare for their top-rated pregame telecast - seen each Sunday at 12 pm ET / 9 am PT.

WEEK 6: Pregame show hits the road for Seattle-New England


United Airlines says it #39;ll need even more labor cuts than anticipated to get out of bankruptcy. United told a bankruptcy court judge in Chicago today that it intends to start talks with unions next month on a new round of cost savings.

United to seek more cuts from labor, elsewhere


Crude oil futures rallied late Friday to a new record high of \$54.90, a day after a decline in the US inventory of heating oil roiled a market already on edge over tight supplies, high demand and unrest among key producers.

Oil rallies to new record high


Bankrupt United Airlines stands to erase 75 percent of its obligation to pay off \$600 million of debt issued for projects at its Chicago O #39;Hare International Airport hub, in a deal that would leave bondholders with 60 cents on

Deal would cut United #39;s Chicago airport debt


From the Department of Dualing Rhetoric: In his story regarding the launch of two new IBM pSeries servers, News.com #39;s Stephen Shankland quotes IBM Unix vice president Karl Freund as saying  quot;Our goal is to beat Sun and perhaps become the No.

-Posted by david.berlind  2:10 pm (PDT)


Oil demand is rising faster than predicted this year as OPEC pumps more low-quality oil in a failed bid to reduce record prices, according to International Energy Agency, an adviser to 26 industrialized nations.

Demand For Oil Exceeds Forecasts


Unseeded Elena Bovina upset error-prone Venus Williams, 6-3, 6-2 Friday to advance to the Kremlin Cup semifinals. Bovina, 19, will be playing in her third semifinal this season.

Bovina upsets Williams at Kremlin Cup


OCTOBER 15, 2004 (IDG NEWS SERVICE) - Dell Inc. took the wraps off its holiday lineup on Thursday, showing new printers, plasma televisions and music players that will soon be available through its Web site.

Dell unveils holiday lineup, including new plasma TVs


The UN has chosen Argentina, Denmark, Greece, Japan and Tanzania as the five states to become non-permanent members of the Security Council next year.

Security Council group named


The reputed spiritual leader of an Indonesian terrorist network has been charged with orchestrating the bombing of a Bali nightclub and a Jakarta hotel.

Islamic teacher charged with bombings


NEW YORK (Reuters) - An investigation into U.S. insurers  and brokers rattled insurance industry stocks for a second day  on Friday as investors, shaken further by subpoenas delivered  to the top U.S. life insurer, struggled to gauge how deep the  probe might reach.

Insurance Probe Rattles Stocks


AP - Sen. John Kerry's presidential campaign, contending that Sinclair Broadcast Group wants to help President Bush by airing an anti-Kerry documentary two weeks before the election, asked on Friday that each station carrying the program provide a similar amount of time to Kerry supporters.

Kerry Campaign Seeks Equal Time Over Film (AP)


VATICAN CITY (Reuters) - Russia's Red Army chorus and  orchestra on Friday feted Pope John Paul to mark his 26th  anniversary as Roman Catholic leader, an event unthinkable just  15 years ago before the fall of the Soviet Union.

Russia's Red Army Fetes Pope on Eve of Anniversary


Pakistani President General Pervez Musharraf has arrived in Britain for a visit which will include talks with Prime Minister Tony Blair.

Pakistani leader arrives for talks


(Article Central) Microsoft released its October batch of security advisories this week, with a number of  quot;critical quot; patches, including a significant fix for the Internet Explorer browser.

Microsoft Issues IE Patch


WASHINGTON (Reuters) - None of Chiron Corp.'s flu vaccine  made at a British plant is safe, which means the U.S. flu  vaccine supply will be half of what was expected, U.S. health  officials said on Friday.

No Chance of Chiron Vaccine, U.S. Says


NEW YORK Oct. 13, 2004 - Mets general manager Omar Minaya shook up New York #39;s coaching staff Wednesday while continuing to search for a manager to replace Art Howe.

Minaya Shakes Up Mets Coaching Staff


While pilots still feel in command in the air, they increasingly are feeling slighted on the ground, as airlines extract salary and benefits concessions from them.

For Many Airline Pilots, the Thrill Is Gone


Halo 2, one of the most anticipated video games of the year, got an early release date, but not the way fans or its publisher, Microsoft, had hoped.

Video game leaked on Internet


Virender Sehwag #39;s smashing century spurred India in the second test match Friday after Australian leg-spinner Shane Warne surged to the top of test cricket #39;s all-time wicket-takers by dismissing Irfan Pathan for his 533rd wicket.

Virender Sehwag turns in 133 not out


JAMAICA #39;S BID for a place in the 2006 World Cup finals suffered a major setback on Wednesday night when they picked up only one point against El Salvador at the National Stadium.

Hanging by fingertips


THE federal government has welcomed the bringing of formal terrorism charges against Indonesian militant cleric Abu Bakar Bashir. A spokesman for Foreign Minister Alexander Downer said the charges reflected

Downer welcomes terror charge


Reuters - Video chain Blockbuster Inc on\Friday said it would lower the price of its online DVD rentals\to undercut a similar move by Netflix Inc. that sparked a stock\a sell-off of both companies' shares.

Blockbuster Cuts Online Price, Challenges Netflix (Reuters)


AP - A great white shark that was tagged with a data-gathering device in shallow waters off Cape Cod has apparently reclaimed its privacy.

Great White Shark Loses Monitor Tag (AP)


Struggling Delta Air Lines #39; latest financials show its cash on hand has dipped below the point where some analysts say it must decide to file for bankruptcy.

#39;Do or die #39; for cash-tight Delta


Kicking off what promises to be a dismal round of automotive earnings reports, General Motors yesterday laid out a range of problems that have no ready solutions, from the slowdown in auto-sales growth in China and record-high steel costs to intractable

GM trims earnings projection for year


IBM on Friday introduced high-end servers in its pSeries and iSeries lines that include virtualization features and raw power that some experts say put the products on par with offerings from rival Hewlett-Packard Co.

IBM #39;s High-End Power5 Servers Catch HP


With 3:25 left in the third quarter, the score was 33-0, and the 79,406 fans at Doak Campbell Stadium in Tallahassee, Fla., had long since stopped worrying about the outcome.

Different time, different team


PORT-AU-PRINCE, Haiti - Heavy gunfire erupted yesterday when police streamed into a slum stronghold of ousted President Jean-Bertrand Aristide.

Tensions surge in Haiti


CAPE TOWN - Ray Jennings was appointed as the interim coach of South Africa #39;s national cricket side yesterday afternoon following the resignation earlier of the under-fire Eric Simons.

Jennings in charge


Are games based on the Vietnam conflict making us immune to realities of history?

Playing with the traumas of war


Spain #39;s Miguel Angel imenez completed a 2 amp;1 victory over German Bernhard Langer in their delayed World Match Play Championship quarter-final at Wentworth on Saturday.

Jimenez ends Langer #39;s Match Play bid


Palestinians retrieved belongings from the rubble of dozens of homes and work crews patched up roads and water pipes today - the aftermath of Israels 17-day military offensive, the deadliest in the Gaza Strip in four years of fighting.

Gaza Clean-Up Operation after Israeli Withdrawal


Since his arrival in Boston at the trading deadline, Doug Mientkiewicz has bought into the Red Sox' team concept, accepting his role as a defensive replacement.

It's not sitting well with Mientkiewicz


Reuters - World test wicket record holder Shane Warne grabbed six wickets as India established a handy 141-run first innings lead in the second test on Saturday.

Warne takes six but India establish handy lead (Reuters)


New Zealand hold Australia 16-16 in the first game of the 2004 Tri-Nations series.

Rugby: Kiwis earn draw


Miguel Angel Jimenez ended the strong challenge of his Ryder Cup captain, Bernhard Langer, on the 35th hole Saturday to earn a semifinal place in the World Match Play Championship.

Jimenez ends Langer #39;s challenge at the 35th


Pfizer Inc. said Friday that it will provide health-care professionals with additional information about its Bextra arthritis drug and that it will conduct further studies to confirm the drug #39;s long-term cardiovascular safety record.

Pfizer Sends Out Update On Drug Bextra


TEHRAN (Reuters) - Iran said on Saturday it would reject  any proposal to halt uranium enrichment, a step European Union  diplomats are proposing to end a row over whether Iran is  seeking atomic weapons.

Iran Rejects Any Deal to End Uranium Enrichment


Iran says it will reject any European proposal which requires it to halt its nuclear activities completely.

Iran to shun Europe nuclear deal


Boston -- The Red Sox got their hoped-for rain on Friday, and after the deluge, things are looking up for Boston: Because of the postponement, Pedro Martinez may pitch Game 5, and in another development, 21-game winner Curt Schilling is back under

It #39;s plain: Rain helps Red Sox Boston thinks it gained an edge <b>...</b>


NEW DELHI - Fourteen people have been killed in Kashmir in an increase of violence since a visit by the Indian prime minister in mid-November.

14 dead in Kashmir violence


WASHINGTON (AFP) - Shoppers -- the dynamo in the US economy -- shrugged off rising energy prices and splurged in malls and car showrooms in September, a government report showed.

American shoppers splurge in September


England has swept its one-day series against Zimbabwe 4-0 with a 74-run win in Bulawayo. Veteran Darren Gough took 4-34 as Zimbabwe was bowled out for 187 chasing 262 for victory.

England sweeps Zims


A brown bear kills one person and wounds several in the Transylvanian forests of Romania.

One dead in Romanian bear rampage


AP - The Sept. 11 attacks on America forced Prime Minister Tony Blair's government to ponder a troubling question: Could terrorists pull off something similar, or even worse, in London or another big British city? The answer, they concluded, was yes.

Britain Ups Anti-Terror Security Spending (AP)


AFP - Teresa Heinz Kerry, wife of Democratic presidential candidate John Kerry, declared 2,291,137 dollars in gross taxable income in 2003 and paid 798,820 dollars in state and federal taxes, or about 35 percent, her office said in a statement.

Kerry's wife paid 798,820 dollars in state, federal taxes in 2003 (AFP)


This time, world leaders and their people cannot claim they knew nothing of the tens of thousands of murders of black Africans and massive gang rapes in Darfur perpetrated by the Arab Janjaweed

Column: Who will stop genocide in Sudan?


By DIEDTRA HENDERSON    WASHINGTON (AP) -- The Food and Drug Administration on Friday ordered that all antidepressants carry

FDA Orders Strong Antidepressant Warning Labels


AFP - US Secretary of State Colin Powell will visit Japan, China and South Korea beginning next week for talks on the stalled effort to end the impasse over North Korea's nuclear program, Iraq, terrorism and other matters, the State Department said.

Powell to discuss NKorea on visit Japan, China, SKorea next week (AFP)


Sudan on Saturday questioned UN estimates that up to 70,000 people have died from hunger and disease in its remote Darfur region since a rebellion began 20 months ago.

Sudan Questions WHO Darfur Deaths Figures


US presidential candidate John Kerry says he will make stem cell research a priority, dropping George Bush's policy.

Kerry to reverse stem cell policy


AP - Yao Ming is refreshed. After a demanding few days in his hometown for the first NBA game in China, the Houston Rockets center has had some time to unwind since arriving in Beijing.

Yao Rested and Ready for Kings Again (AP)


JABALYA REFUGEE CAMP, Gaza Strip (Reuters) - Palestinians  sifted through the rubble of dozens of homes in a sprawling  refugee camp on Saturday after Israel ended its most powerful  assault in the Gaza Strip in four years of bloodshed.

Palestinians Sift Rubble After Israel's Gaza Assault


Brazilian midfielder Juninho scored his first goal for Celtic in a 3-0 drubbing of Hearts that gave the champions an eight-point lead at the top of the Scottish Premier League on Saturday.

UPDATE 1-Juninho on target as Celtic beat Hearts 3-0


DAYTONA BEACH, Fla. - The presidential candidates found new ways to go negative Saturday, President Bush accusing his Democratic challenger of putting politics ahead of the war on terror and Sen...

Bush and Kerry Trade Barbs in Fla., Ohio


Roger Clemens hopped off the mound, pumped his right fist and muttered to himself all the way to the dugout. His work was done and the Houston Astros were exactly where they wanted to be -- right back in the NL championship series.

Astros 5, Cardinals 2


A RUSSIAN spacecraft has delivered three astronauts to the International Space Station, overcoming docking system problems which had delayed its launch.

Astronauts arrive at space station


AP - Kenneth Darby rushed for 197 yards and scored two touchdowns, one on a run and one on a pass, as Alabama beat No. 24 Southern Mississippi 27-3 Saturday for its first win against a ranked opponent in nearly two years.

Alabama Upsets No. 24 Southern Miss 27-3 (AP)


Defending champion Ernie Els beat Padraig Harrington 5 and 4 yesterday to move into the final of the World Match Play Championship.

Els Eases Into Final


TRIPOLI, Libya: Libya confirmed that the leaders of Sudan, Egypt, Chad and Nigeria would join Moammar Gadhafi for a  quot;mini-summit #39; #39; Sunday on Sudan #39;s Darfur region, which the United Nations calls the world #39;s worst humanitarian crisis.

Libya hosts  #39;mini-summit #39; on Sudan #39;s Darfur conflict


Houston - -- As if Roger Clemens did not have enough to chew on Saturday morning as he sat in the Astros #39; clubhouse, in walks owner Drayton McLane, not to say  quot;good luck quot; or  quot;go get  #39;em, quot; but to tell Clemens,  quot;This is what we got you for.

Rocket wills Astros to win


Booker carried the ball 15 times...Chris Rix closed out the game for Florida State, completing his only pass for three yards in the fourth...Virginia guard Elton Brown left the game with an apparent injury and did not return after catching a deflected

NCAA Game Summary - Virginia at Florida State


Secretary of State Colin Powell will visit Tokyo for two days next weekend to discuss security and trade as well as stalled talks aimed at ending North Korea #39;s nuclear ambitions, Japanese officials said on Sunday.

Powell to Japan; US Troops, N.Korea on Agenda


Key EU interior ministers are to meet in Florence to discuss plans for migrant holding centres outside Europe.

EU to talk through asylum plans


JERUSALEM - After more than a year of avoiding Jewish settlers, Israeli Prime Minister Ariel Sharon has decided to directly confront his former supporters in a meeting about his contentious plan to withdraw from the Gaza Strip and part of the West Bank.    Sharon invited settler leaders to meet with him in Jerusalem on Sunday, just a week before he presents his

Sharon to Hold Tense Meeting With Settlers


Critics of the Iraq war have slammed the prime minister following a decision to allow British troops to move into dangerous territory around Baghdad under US military command.

Blair to put British troops under US control


WEST LAFAYETTE, Ind. -- Scott Starks returned a fumble by Purdue quarterback Kyle Orton 40 yards for a touchdown in the closing minutes to lift 10th-ranked Wisconsin to a 20-17 win over No. 5 Purdue yesterday.

Late fumble dooms Purdue


AUBURN, Ala. -- Jason Campbell passed for a career-high 297 yards and three touchdowns to lead No. 4 Auburn to a 38-20 rout of Arkansas yesterday.

Tigers are right on target


When Greenville County in South Carolina borrowed \$800 million two years ago to expand its public schools, insurance broker Marsh  amp; McLennan Cos.

Phony bids put insurance firm in real trouble


SAN FRANCISCO -- Slugger Barry Bonds took an undetectable performance-enhancing drug during the 2003 season, his weight trainer said on a secretly recorded tape, the San Francisco Chronicle reported yesterday.

Report: On tape, trainer says Bonds used drug in '03


How fitting. Down, three games to none, their season on its deathbed, the Red Sox now have to pitch Derek Lowe.

Lowe finally is a go


WHILE Zimbabwe #39;s international playing future hangs in the balance, the Zimbabwe Cricket Union has been cleared of racism by the International Cricket Council.

Bullying ZCU is cleared of racism


lineup, but right now he is also the most feared hitter on the Astros. He #39;ll. play the St. Louis Cardinals in Game 4 today at Minute Maid Park.

(Sports Network) - Carlos Beltran may be the newest Killer B in <b>...</b>


Brazilians bagged the plaudits in Spain #39;s La Liga on Saturday as Deco, Brazil-born but a naturalised Portuguese international, fired Barcelona five points clear of the pack with the only goal in a derby win over Espanyol.

Deco keeps Barca flying high as Ronaldo rescues Real


NEW YORK (Reuters) - Halloween is expected to scare up  record sales this year as more adults -- and pets -- join in  what was once mainly a children's dress-up event, filling a  void before the key Christmas shopping season.

Halloween Means Sales as Adults Join In


MOSCOW -- Nikolay Davydenko overcame leg cramps to beat Russian Davis Cup teammate Mikhail Youzhny in a tough Kremlin Cup semifinal, 7-5, 6-7, 7-5 on Saturday.

Davydenko tops Davis Cup  #39;mate Youzhny


Cricket-ICC clears Zimbabwe Cricket Union of racism October 17, 2004 14:05:37 LAHORE, Pakistan, Oct 17 (Reuters) - A special report by an International Cricket Council (ICC) inquiry commission has ruled there is no evidence of racism within the

UPDATE 2-Cricket-Malik reported for suspect action


Pakistan will provide extra security to the Chinese working in the country and pursue a former Guantanamo Bay inmate who masterminded the abduction of two Chinese engineers, the interior minister said on Saturday.

Pakistan says to give extra security to Chinese


London, England (Sports Network) - Charlton continued its strong play at home by coming from behind to tie Newcastle Sunday, 1-1. Alan Curbishley #39;s team is now unbeaten at The Valley in five matches this season, winning three times.

Newcastle held to draw by Charlton


OCTOBER 14, 2004 (REUTERS) - SAN FRANCISCO -- Sun Microsystems Inc. today posted a narrower quarterly loss as revenue rose year over year for the second consecutive quarter after three years of declines, sending shares slightly higher.

Sun posts narrower quarterly loss


Atlanta, GA -- Michael Vick ran for a score and threw a touchdown pass in the fourth quarter, as Atlanta rallied to defeat San Diego, 21-20, at the Georgia Dome.

NFL Game Summary - San Diego At Atlanta


It #39;s time to fess up. We were among the hordes of skeptics (sheep?) who boldly proclaimed drug-testing would blow a hole in the number of runs and home runs we #39;d see in 2004.

Testing didn #39;t curtail homers


TEHRAN: Iran repeated on Sunday it had a right to master the sensitive nuclear fuel cycle, ahead of an expected proposal from Europe calling for Tehran to abandon such work in exchange for diplomatic and trade incentives.

REGION: Iran sticks by its right to possess nuclear fuel <b>...</b>


Already the biggest of its kind in the country, Florida #39;s popular prepaid-tuition program expects to count its millionth customer during a sign-up period that runs Monday through Jan. 31.

Florida #39;s prepaid tuition program thriving


RESEARCH TRIANGLE PARK - IBM is rolling out a new line of Power5-processor based servers that it says outperform rivals from Sun and HP.

IBM Releasing New Power5-Based Servers


CLEVELAND (CP) - Chad Johnson better still have a few bottles of that pink stomach medicine. His Cincinnati Bengals look pretty sick.

Garcia throws four TD passes in Cleveland #39;s 34-17 win over <b>...</b>


When it was over, after Brent Geiberger made his final putt, he finally got to talk to his father, Al, about their latest achievement.

Geiberger joins father as a winner in Greensboro


You probably haven't heard about one of the toughest endurance sports around: the deca-ironman. That's 38 km swimming, immediately followed by an 1800 km bicycle ride and a 420 km run. Currently, the world record stands at about 187 hours, held by a German housewife. Nobody else has ever finished the course below 192 hours.

Toughest athlete is female and unknown


NEW YORK (Reuters) - Price declines for U.S. consumer  electronics accelerated in August, fueled by discounted price  cuts for the popular iPod digital music player and traditional  DVD players, according to an industry study prepared for  Reuters.

iPod, DVD Players Lead Aug. Electronics Prices Lower


AP - For all the fuss over reported admissions of steroid use by Barry Bonds, Jason Giambi and Gary Sheffield, major league baseball probably won't discipline them.

MLB Not Likely to Punish Steroid Users (AP)


Canadian Press - NEW DELHI (AP) - On one side is the dynasty that has dominated Indian politics for half a century. On the other is the family of India's most popular actor, a man so revered that his fans have been known to commit suicide out of loyalty to him.

India watches in awe as two grand families feud in public (Canadian Press)


AP - A soldier, angry about being forced to retire, was holed up in an army depot with 60 tons of explosives Sunday, threatening to blow it up. About 400 residents were evacuated from nearby villages.

French Soldier Threatens to Blow Up Depot (AP)


LONDON, Oct. 17 -- The US-led war in Iraq has not made the world any safer, UN Secretary General Kofi Annan said in a British television interview aired on Sunday.

War in Iraq Did Not Make World Safer, Annan Says


On the strength of Carlos Beltran and a tireless bullpen, the Astros came back from a three-run deficit on Sunday to defeat the Cardinals, 6-5.

Dogged Astros Refocus Eyes on Texas


AFP - Australia has turned down a diplomatic plea for a contribution to a military force to protect United Nations (UN) personnel in Iraq.

Australia turns down plea for more troops to protect UN staff in Iraq (AFP)


Motorsport.com. Markko Martin dominated the this year #39;s edition of the legendary Tour de Corse rally, the 14th round of the 2004 World Rally Championship.

Martin #39;s Tour de Corse win hands WRC title to Loeb


LAHORE, Pakistan (AFP) - The International Cricket Council said yesterday a probe had found no evidence of racism in Zimbabwe cricket and that the Test status of the country #39;s team was never in question.

ICC probe clears Zimbabwe of racism in cricket


Brent Geiberger secured his place on the USPGA Tour for the next two years with his fine two shot win at the Chrysler Classic of Greensboro today.

Geiberger heads threesome to win Chrysler Classic


About once a month since January 2002, Japan has recorded a group suicide, successful or attempted, where participants met on the Internet.

Strangers in Life Join Hands in Death as the Web Becomes a Tool for Suicide in Japan


If Brent Geiberger was pleased to win the Chrysler Classic of Greensboro, his father Al was positively ecstatic.  quot;I was going absolutely crazy watching it all unfold.

Like father, like son in Chrysler Classic


HOUSTON - Even in a season of 105 wins, there had to be losses. But not like this one. The Cardinals didn #39;t merely lose 6-5 to the Houston Astros in Game 4 of the National League Championship Series.

Astros erupt vs. Cards  #39;pen


Prime Minister Ariel Sharon is to meet formally with a group of settlement leaders from Judea and Samaria Sunday for the first time in a year and half.

Sharon to meet with settlement group as referendum idea gains <b>...</b>


The findings come in a report from the newly formed Consumer Spyware Initiative, a joint effort by Dell and the non-profit Internet Education Foundation that aims to increase awareness of spyware.

US consumers unaware of spyware


Broadband service may get a little broader in the next few years, now that the Federal Communications Commission is graciously stepping out of the way.

FCC ruling sets stage for broadband surge


SAN FRANCISCO -- At virtually every turn, Intel Corp. executives are heaping praise on an emerging long-range wireless technology known as WiMAX, which can blanket entire cities with high-speed Internet access.

Wi-Fi successor is called high-speed hype -- for now


WASHINGTON - Gay marriage is emerging as a big enough issue in several states to influence races both for Congress and the presidency.    Ballot initiatives on banning same-sex marriages are expected to propel social conservatives to the polls in 11 states, including four presidential battlegrounds: Arkansas, Ohio, Michigan and Oregon...

Gay Marriage Issue Motivates Conservatives


Seven years of Pedro. Went by quickly, huh? Seven years, the best of which may very well have been the best pitching ever done in a Boston uniform. Seven years of feistiness. Seven years of blazing fastballs. Seven years of spellbinding changeups. Seven years of pitching inside, sometimes waaaaay inside. Seven years of double-digit strikeouts. Seven years of sheer virtuosity. ...

Ace's wicked run leaves us wanting more


When it comes down to this, when it's worse than you could have possibly imagined, if you are any kind of ballplayer at all, you look within and ask yourself what you can do to make it better.

Ramirez should be taking it to heart


Stanley Leisure plc has announced a Stanley Casinos Limited plan to develop a casino complex on land adjacent to Leeds United #39;s Elland Road stadium.

Stanley set sights on Elland Road for casino


Ireland #39;s state-owned carrier, Aer Lingus, has asked the government for a grant worth euro200 million to euro300 million (US\$250 million to US\$375 million) to begin buying 10 or more long-haul aircraft from either Boeing or Airbus.

Ireland #39;s National Carrier Seeks Govt. Aid


The Federal Government says they are considering more tax cuts for lower and middle-income Canadians. Fending off attacks over the 9.1 billion dollar budget surplus, Finance Minister Ralph Goodale said he

Goodale Hints of Tax Cuts


State Attorney General Eliot Spitzer has embarked on another crusade against an industry whose wealth-fueled influence makes most politicians cower.

Attorney general is on target with aim at insurance industry ills


Jacques Villeneuve will be looking to score points in his final race for the Renault F1 Team, this weekend in Brazil.

Villeneuve looking for points in final race


An Australian journalist was seized by militants in Iraq for nearly 24 hours, but then released unharmed.

Australian reporter freed in Iraq


A humble church has something Germany's glorious Cologne Cathedral cannot match: a leaning tower.

An Old Church's New Tilt Inspires Tourists and T-Shirts


AP - As pressures increase on California's mental health system, its workers and advocates say they are forced to do more with a supply of money that seems to shrink each year.

Calif. Mental Health Services May Expand (AP)


FORT WORTH, Texas Helio Castroneves had a great restart today with two laps to go after a lengthy caution. He held off IndyCar Series champion Tony Kanaan to win the season finale at Texas Motor Speedway.

IndyCar champ Kanaan finishes second and every lap


Already the search tool so popular its name has become a verb, Google has been quietly adding important features in the background since it became a public company.

Google blows search into another universe


Daphne Koller is pushing the limits of building computer programs that learn efficiently and reason intelligently. Third in a series profiling this year's MacArthur 'genius award' winners. By Kari Lynn Dean.

The Brains Behind AI


Signs of a delay, or just managing expectations?

Too few games could set back PSP launch - Sony exec


Hearing a Jar Jar Binks-lookalike Gungan yell

Star Wars Battlefront; Sly 2: Band of Thieves; MacFamily Tree 4.0.6


The Institute of Environmental Medicine (IMM) at Karolinska Institute in Sweden found no indications of risk for less than 10 years of usage.

Older mobiles may cause tumours: study


NEW YORK (Reuters) - Pfizer Inc. said on Monday it plans to  sponsor a major clinical study to further assess the  cardiovascular safety of its arthritis drug Celebrex following  the withdrawal of Merck   Co.'s Vioxx, a drug in the same  class.

Pfizer to Sponsor Large New Celebrex Trial


Microsoft confirms that a pirated copy of Halo 2 for Xbox in the PAL video format and French language started circulating on the Internet this week over newsgroups and piracy sites.

Halo 2 for Xbox Leaked Online


Star Gas Partners LP (SGH.N: Quote, Profile, Research) (SGU.N: Quote, Profile, Research) on Monday said it has suspended distributions on its common partnership units and warned it may have to seek bankruptcy protection unless

UPDATE 1-Star Gas suspends payout, may seek bankruptcy


Tough times often make for strange bedfellows, and the explosion of viruses, computer worms and spyware programs on the Internet is producing unique alliances among top technology firms. <FONT face=

Tech Giants Declare, 'United We Stand'


FLORENCE Interior ministers from the five largest West European countries have agreed to adopt digital fingerprinting on passports, officials here said, but a second day of talks on Monday found them still deadlocked on a plan to create migrant holding

5 EU ministers back digital passports


News and survey results from Computerworld's twice-annual storage conference.

Storage Networking World Highlights


The Liberty Alliance Project signalled that it expects to have longevity when it comes to developing and promoting federated identity standards by naming its first executive director on Monday.

Liberty Alliance names first director, new members


Grace Park was bitterly disappointed after failing to produce her second LPGA title of the season Sunday at the Samsung World Championship at Big Horn Golf Course in Palm Desert, California.

Late collapse costs Park a victory


Celtic manager Martin O #39;Neill believes striker Juninho is benefiting from the support of the Parkhead crowd as he settles into life in the Bank of Scotland Premier League.

O #39;Neill backs Juninho to excel


The Brazilian Grand Prix at Sao Paulo on 24 October will be the 18th and final round of the FIA Formula One World Championship 2004.

Brazilian GP: Sauber preview


The UK's Royal Society urges the UN to ignore a call by President Bush to ban all forms of human cloning.

UN 'must ignore cloning ban call'


IT WOULD have been obtuse to miss the streak of smug satisfaction in the Western response to the seizure by Al-Qaeda #39;s Pakistani allies of two Chinese engineers working on Pakistan #39;s

Human lives mere pawns in game of political expediency


Google has announced a new desktop search application that enables users to search their e-mail, files, web history, and chats. Perhaps learning from previous mistakes, Google says it has designed the product  quot;from the ground up to respect user privacy.

Google puts desktop search privacy up front


A deadly explosion has hit a car carrying an election worker in southeastern Afghanistan. In all, five people were killed, including the worker identified as a local physician who helped organize the vote.

Fresh violence mars Afghan vote count


CHICAGO (Reuters) - Odyssey Healthcare Inc.  <A HREF=

Odyssey Warns of Weak Quarter, CEO Quits


Gold Fields Ltd. (GFI) said it rejected a takeover bid by Harmony Gold Mining Co. Ltd. to create the world #39;s leading gold mining group, saying it was not in its interests.

Gold Fields ready to fight Harmony takeover


Reuters - The dreaded Northern Snakehead, a\voracious predator dubbed the

'Frankenfish' Caught in Great Lakes (Reuters)


OCTOBER 18, 2004 (COMPUTERWORLD) - IBM and Borland Software Corp. last week separately brought out upgrades to their development tool lines that executives said add support for heterogeneous environments and

Vendors Upgrade Development Tools


Oil prices fell sharply on Monday in what traders described as a wave of profit-taking sparked by a steep decline in gasoline futures.

Oil Prices Nosedive on Profit-Taking


(AGI) - Florence, Italy, Oct.18 -  quot;EuroPol must play a key role in the struggle against terorrism quot; said Interior Minister Giuseppe Pisanu, illustrating the results of the G5 (Italy, UK, France, Germany, Spain) Interior Ministers meeting held today in

G5, PISANU: EUROPOL PLAYS KEY ROLE AGAINST TERRORISM


MOSCOW: Foreign investors may take part in the sale of assets in Russian oil major Yukos main production unit, which could be offered at a 60 price discount to settle back taxes, Russian television reported on Monday.

Foreign investors likely to bid for Yukos unit


The links between Apple and U2 grow stronger, with Apple #39;s announcement that it will hold a special music event next week on October 26.

Apple and U2 co-host autumn music special


success, could point to the government #39;s ability to organise nationwide polls by the end of January. The interim government has vowed to crack down on insurgents and pacify Iraq before the January election.

Iraq to widen arms amnesty


INDIANAPOLIS (Sports Network) - Peyton Manning threw for  425 yards with three touchdowns and Edgerrin James ran for 105  yards with a pair of scores, as the Indianapolis Colts shook  off a sluggish start and rolled to a 51-24 victory over the  Tennessee Titans at the RCA Dome.

Manning Throws 3 TDs to Lead Colts Past Titans


p2pnet.net News:-  quot;Select quot; members of the press on Monday have received an invitation to a special Apple iTunes / iPod promo slated for October 16, says MacCentral.

Bono at Apple promo


Hoping to stem a tide of rising pension debt, a California legislator will propose a controversial overhaul on Monday that would convert traditional public employee retirement plans to privately managed 401(k)-style plans, the Los

Calif. Lawmaker Wants to Privatize State Pensions


NEW YORK (Reuters) - Kmart Holding Corp. <A HREF=

KMart Names Yum Marketing Maven as CEO


BAGHDAD, Iraq - The U.S. military said Monday no decision had been made on whether to discipline Army reservists who refused a supply mission last week, despite statements from their relatives that the soldiers would be discharged...

U.S.: No Decision Made on Iraq Unit's Fate


PC World has posted a news article claiming that the highly anticipated game Halo 2 for the Xbox has been released on the net.  quot;Microsoft confirms that a pirated copy of Halo 2 for Xbox in the PAL video format

Halo 2 for Xbox Leaked Online


Like the ugly duckling, cowbirds are raised by other bird species. So how do they find each other as adults? A new study says they have a

Raised by Others, Birds Use Code to Find Their Kind


Ernie Els has another 1.4m and a World Match Play record all to himself. But he wants more. And top of the South Africans agenda for 2005 is to try to win the Masters and US PGA titles.

Els still has Major ambitions


American business tycoon Malcolm Glazer has increased his stake in Manchester United by buying another 17million worth of shares in the club.

Glazer buys more Man United shares


Texas Instruments Inc. (TXN.N: Quote, Profile, Research) , the largest maker of chips for cellular phones, on Monday said quarterly profit rose about 26 percent on demand from handset

TI Profit Up on Cellular, TV Chip Sales


IBM recently unveiled the TotalStorage DS6000, a roughly VCR-size system aimed at mid-size businesses. The new DS8000 series system features IBM Power5 microprocessors and IBM #39;s Virtualization

IBM Unveils New Storage Technology


Deutsche Bank defended today its role in the collapse of a Chinese government-controlled company in Singapore early last week, as investigators continued to study what went wrong.

Deutsche Bank Defends Role in Collapse of Company in Singapore


OCTOBER 18, 2004 (COMPUTERWORLD) - Microsoft Corp. #39;s move to a monthly patch-release cycle one year ago this month has made it easier to install security updates for Windows and other products, IT managers said last weekeven as they were greeted with a

Users Buoyed by Monthly Patch Releases


NEW YORK (Reuters) - Oil prices retreated sharply after  setting record highs above \$55 a barrel on Monday as dealers  took profits on signs that energy costs are hurting economic  growth.

Oil Retreats on Signs Economy Hurting


NEW YORK (Reuters) - U.S. stocks closed higher on Monday  after a drop in oil prices eased worries about corporate  profits, although disappointing earnings from diversified  manufacturer 3M Co. <A HREF=

U.S. Stocks Gain as Oil Retreats


CHICAGO (Reuters) - Kraft Foods Inc. <A HREF=

Kraft Profit Falls on Higher Costs


Lindsay Davenport says she plans to play in the Australian Open next January.

Tennis: Davenport to play on


NEW YORK - A sharp drop in oil prices gave Wall Street a modest relief rally Monday, with stocks edging higher on news that oil production had soared during the month of September.    Investors who have sold stocks for months as oil prices climbed reversed course Monday and started buying as the price of crude declined...

Stocks Edge Higher As Oil Prices Retreat


Southern California took the top spot Monday in the season's first Bowl Championship Series standings, and surprisingly Miami is ahead of Oklahoma in a close race for the second spot.    Oklahoma is No...

USC, Miami Top BCS Standings, Not Okla.


NEW YORK - IBM Corp. posted quarterly results on Monday showing 9 percent revenue growth from last year and slight earnings growth, despite a \$320 million charge it took during the quarter to settle some claims in a lawsuit over its pension plan.

IBM posts broad Q3 revenue growth


Fashion models replaced traditional ball boys in the biggest surprise Monday at the Madrid Masters, where expected winners included Albert Costa, Alex Corretja and Luis Horna.

Models replace ball boys at Madrid Masters


AFP - Voters in Hungary failed to turn out in sufficient numbers to pass a referendum to extend citizenship to millions of ethnic Hungarians living in the region, a motion that split the country and drew fire from neighboring governments.

Hungary citizenship fails due to low turnout (AFP)


(Buffalo, NY, October 18, 2004) - - Buffalo #39;s dominant airlines is 1 of 2 carriers that #39;s taking drastic cost cutting steps to stay in the air.

US Airways Workers Get Pay Cut


Malcolm Glazer edged closer to triggering a mandatory bid for Manchester United last night by increasing his stake in the club to 27.

Glazer raises stake in United to close on buy-out trigger point


The management and labor representatives of the car producer Opel began talks Monday on thecontroversial massive layoffs faced by its workers.

Opel management, workers talk in job issues


The Bass Anglers Sportsman Society is moving its headquarters to Central Florida. The bass fishing organization, based in Montgomery since its inception in 1967, announced Monday

BASS moving headquarters to Florida


MADRID: Leggy models as ballgirls won #39;t be a distraction to family man Alex Corretja after the veteran moved into the second round of the Madrid Masters yesterday.

Leggy models wont distract Corretja


AP - The U.S. military said Monday no decision had been made on whether to discipline Army reservists who refused a supply mission last week, despite statements from their relatives that the soldiers would be discharged.

U.S.: No Decision Made on Iraq Unit's Fate (AP)


AP - The Australian embassy in Baghdad is to be moved into the strife-torn city's heavily fortified Green Zone, the government said Tuesday.

Australia to Relocate Embassy in Baghdad (AP)


Manchester United manager Alex Ferguson says he has picked the wrong teams at times this season.  quot;Maybe at the moment I am making too many changes, quot; Ferguson told British newspapers

Ferguson says he is picking the wrong teams


Many of Britain #39;s Olympic medal winners had already done a lap of honour in Athens, the civic reception and some even appeared on A Question of Sport.

Parade of Heroes sets the pace for London 2012 bid


AP - Jerry Rice could be headed north to reunite with Seattle Seahawks coach Mike Holmgren.

Seahawks Looking at Acquiring Jerry Rice (AP)


AP - As happy as Utah coach Urban Meyer was to hear his team was ranked seventh in the first Bowl Championship Series standings, he didn't want to talk about it much.

Utah Seventh in First BCS Standings (AP)


TONY EASTLEY: An Australian journalist snatched by insurgents in Iraq, has contradicted claims by Foreign Minister Alexander Downer that he was kidnapped in a part of Baghdad where he was advised not to go.

Australian journalist tells of capture in Iraq


In January, Coke plans to introduce an energy drink called Full Throttle. Coke hopes it will be a better competitor than an earlier entry, the slow-selling KMX.

Coke plans new push into energy niche


Keane was not with the squad flying out to the Czech capital after contracting a virus and Ferdinand, who would almost certainly have skippered United in the Irishmans absence, was due to attend his grandmothers funeral.

United without key pair


AP - People who use public or workplace computers for e-mail, instant messaging and Web searching have a new privacy risk to worry about: Google's free new tool that indexes a PC's contents for quickly locating data.

Google's New PC Search Tool Poses Risks (AP)


Reuters - South Korea will pick its first two\astronauts next year for a space trip by 2007, the science\ministry said Sunday, after Russia agreed to help the country's\space program.

South Korea to Pick Country's First 2 Astronauts (Reuters)


Telecommunications firm MCI Inc. on Monday said it will take a hefty \$3.5 billion charge in the third quarter to impair property, equipment and intangible assets related to its consumer phone business.

MCI to Take \$3.5 Billion Charge in 3Q


Georgetown Prep defender Fro Adu is proud of brother Freddy, a forward for D.C. United, but wants to step out on his own.

He's His Own Adu


Mark Knopfler, the former lead guitarist and singer for Dire Straits, has recorded his new  quot;Shangri-La quot; album on a dual AMD Opteron processor-based digital audio workstation.

Former Dire Straits Front Man Uses AMD Opteron for New Album


Boeing Co. received at least \$49 million in excessive profits on a \$1.2 billion contract to supply explosives-detection systems to hundreds of the nation #39;s airports, the Department of Homeland

TSA Deal Overpaid Boeing, Report Says


A reconnaissance team is to visit the area around Baghdad where UK forces could be sent to provide US back-up.

UK to assess Iraq troop move


Boston's David Ortiz drilled a pitch into center field, a clean single that brought home Johnny Damon with the winning run in a marathon Game 5 in the A.L.C.S.

Even Longer: Red Sox Win in 14 Innings


Since mad cow disease turned up in the United States late last year, traced to a cow imported from Canada, federal regulators have issued rules to prevent the spread of the fatal disease, focusing on limiting beef imports, testing and other measures to protect the domestic herd.

Keeping Mad Cow Out of Cosmetics


US Airways said it will change its flight schedules in February to increase departures at its Charlotte and Philadelphia hubs and create a mini-hub in Fort Lauderdale, Fla.

US Airways to Alter Flights


A coalition of private citizens and local elected officials in New Jersey plan to file a lawsuit to block the state's use of electronic voting machines.

New Jersey Lawsuit Challenges Electronic Voting


The Food and Drug Administration approved the use of an artificial heart made by SynCardia Systems as a temporary device for people awaiting transplants.

Regulators Approve Artificial Heart


With a raft of new products ready to roll out over the next few years, Ford Motor Co. is setting big growth goals for its long-troubled Lincoln Mercury division.

Industry Report: Dec. 6, 2004


Kmart yesterday hired a restaurant and branding expert as its new president and chief executive officer, suggesting the nation #39;s third-largest discount retailer would soon start

Kmart names new CEO


MIAMI -- Shaquille O #39;Neal swatted away Boris Diaw #39;s lay-up to preserve a 26-point lead, then waved into a nearby television camera the moment he landed on his feet.

NBA ROUNDUP: O #39;Neal puts on a show for new fans in Miami


President Bush and Democratic challenger John F. Kerry lunged into the final two weeks of the 2004 presidential campaign on Monday by feuding feverishly over the Iraq war and the fight against terrorists.

Candidates Spar on Iraq, Terrorism War


WASHINGTON -- Interest rates on short-term Treasury bills rose in yesterday's auction to the highest levels in 30 months.

Rates on short-term T-bills hit 30-month high


Even after two draining nights of disappointment, the New York Yankees are still in good shape. Sure, they squandered a pair of chances to close out Boston.

Exhausted Yankees still in good shape


Tens of thousands of General Motors workers across Europe were set to stop working on Tuesday in a sign of solidarity with their German colleagues, who face massive job cuts.

GM Protests Spread Across Europe


The official crowd at Fenway Park last night was a capacity 35,120, but as the years pass, the number of people who claim to have attended the Red Sox stats, schedule #39; 5-4, 14-inning victory

Ortiz, Sox rally to fight another day: Sink Yanks in 14, send <b>...</b>


A top North Korean official has flagged the resumption of multilateral talks over the country #39;s efforts to develop nuclear weapons.

N Korea crisis talks set to resume


KABUL (Reuters) - Afghan President Hamid Karzai was on  course on Tuesday for an outright victory in the country's  historic presidential election with almost a quarter of the  votes counted from the poll 10 days ago.

Karzai Camp Scents Victory Early in Afghan Poll


Microsoft and Cisco Systems will collaborate to make their emerging products for network security compatible. The vendors had been working independently in the area of PC access to networks but say customers

Microsoft, Cisco partner on network-access security


Linux distributor Red Hat Inc has appointed a vice president of desktop infrastructure technologies, a new position demonstrating its renewed commitment to Linux as a desktop operating system.

Red Hat appoints head of desktop infrastructure


Courtney Prince, 25, of Manhattan, a former captain of the New York Rangers #39; skating cheerleading squad sued the owner of Madison Square Garden, saying she was fired after she told

Pro Hockey Notebook: 10/19/04


Technology India: New York, Oct 19 : The world #39;s leading computer chipmaker Intel has jumped off the chip speed roller coaster by yanking its four giga hertz (4 GHz) Pentium 4 processor off the drawing board.

Intel gets off chip speed roller coaster:


Trust Digital Inc., a McLean software company, is getting a new chief executive and \$3.1 million in new investments as it tries to expand its business making security software for wireless devices. <FONT face=

Trust Digital Gets CEO, Cash Influx


Sainsburys chief executive Justin King today unveiled his long-term plan to return the UKs third largest supermarket chain to its former glory.

Key Areas of Sainsbury #39;s Revival Strategy


Review From PC to hi-fi via Wi-Fi

Creative Sound Blaster Wireless Music


AFP - Myanmar's Prime Minister General Khin Nyunt -- among the most reformist of the military regime's leaders -- has been sacked and placed under house arrest for alleged corruption, a Thai government spokesman said.

Myanmar PM sacked, arrested for corruption (AFP)


Care International charity says its chief of operations in Iraq has been kidnapped in Baghdad. A spokeswoman told Reuters on Tuesday that Margaret Hassan, who has been working

Charity chief kidnapped in Iraq


Constellation Brands Inc., the world #39;s largest winemaker, offered \$1.3 billion in cash to acquire Robert Mondavi Corp., maker of lower-price Woodbridge wines.

Constellation Brands Offers \$1.3 Billion for Mondavi (Update1)


US-based chipmaker Texas Instruments Inc. said it will spend about US\$300 million (euro 240 million) over the next three years to increase output at its facilities in the northern Philippines.

Texas Instruments Plans Investment


Margaret Hassan, said to be a British-born Iraqi national, the director of CARE International #39;s operation in Iraq is seen in this image made from video footage made on May 20, 2003.

CARE Official Kidnapped in Baghdad


Something strange happened on the sun last week: all the sunspots vanished. This is a sign, say scientists, that solar minimum is coming sooner than expected.

Solar Minimum is Coming Soon


Users and developers anxious to get their hands on Microsoft SQL Server 2005 will have wait a little longer. Since early this year Microsoft said to expect the finished version of the product in the first half of 2005.

Microsoft pushes SQL Server 2005 back


Customers that use the dual-core processors that Intel Corp. and Advanced Micro Devices Inc. (AMD) are expected to begin shipping next year will not need to buy extra licenses for Microsoft Corp. software, the software maker will announce Tuesday.

Microsoft: No extra licenses needed for multicore chips


Advanced Micro Devices Inc. (AMD) is expected to unveil its most powerful desktop processors to date on Tuesday, a few days after rival Intel Corp. disclosed changes to its desktop processor road map.

AMD pushes desktop performance with new chips


New Athlon 64 processors will compete with Intel's Pentium 4 Extreme Edition.

AMD Readies Powerful Desktop Chips


Could your TV call the Air Force? Apparently, Toshiba flat-screens can! Tv doesn #39;t get much better than this...  quot;An Oregon man discovered earlier this month that his year-old Toshiba Corporation flat-screen

Flat-screen TV emits international distress signal


Israel's opposition leader warns that the prime minister risks being assassinated over his Gaza disengagement plan.

Sharon 'at risk of assassination'


US tycoon Malcolm Glazer lifts his stake in Manchester Utd to 28.11, one day after spending 17m on  further share buys.

Glazer stake in Man Utd nears 30


NEW YORK -- A federal judge has delayed the trial of former WorldCom chief Bernard Ebbers until January 17th. The trial had been set to start November Ninth.

Start of Ebbers Trial Delayed


Symbol Technologies Tuesday launched a line of enterprise-class handheld devices aimed at mobile professionals such as retail managers and supply chain management professionals.

Symbol Arms Mobile Professionals With New Handheld


Tommy Haas of Germany and Taylor Dent of the United States advanced to the second round of the Madrid Masters after easy wins Tuesday.

Haas, Dent win openers at Madrid Masters


MADRID, Dec. 5. - Samuel Etoo scored twice to help FC Barcelona beat Malaga 4-0 and extend its lead in the Spanish league to 10 points.

Barcelona crush Malaga 4-0


Sprint Corp. (FON.N: Quote, Profile, Research) on Tuesday reported a larger third-quarter loss due to a \$3.5 billion write-down in the value of its long-distance assets.

UPDATE 2-Sprint raises forecast, cuts \$3.5 bln from assets


CHARLTON #39;S players past and present would have been proud with this display - and how fitting that a game marking the Addicks #39; centenary had everything you could wish for from a match.

A game to remember


A mortar attack on an Iraqi National Guard headquarters north of Baghdad killed at least four National Guards and injured 80 others, officials said Tuesday.

National Guard HQ attacked near Baghdad


J Sainsbury will take a 550 million (\$991 million) hit to profits this year as it invests to boost sales and reverse falling market share, Britain #39;s third-biggest supermarket chain said Tuesday.

Sainsbury takes profit hit


The record level of debt carried by American households and soaring home prices do not appear to represent serious threats to the US economy, Federal Reserve Chairman Alan Greenspan said Tuesday.

Greenspan: Debt, home prices not dangerous


NEW YORK (Reuters) - Wells Fargo   Co. <A HREF=

Wells Fargo Profit Rises 12 Percent


AP - Tennessee starting safety Brandon Johnson was suspended indefinitely because he fired a gun into the air near campus.

Tennessee's Johnson Suspended for Gun (AP)


U2 and Apple Computer are expected to announce next week that they have inked a deal to sell custom iPods. According to a source, the band #39;s upcoming Interscope album  quot;How to Dismantle an Atomic Bomb, quot; due Nov.

U2, Apple In iPod Deal, Bono Wins TED Prize


Coca Cola says it will allow retailers to stock rival drinks in its branded coolers as part of a deal with EU anti-trust watchdogs.

Coke opens fridge door to rivals


Fungus from a deep-sea sediment core that is hundreds of thousands of years old will grow when placed in culture, scientists discover.

Ancient fungus 'revived' in lab


SPACE.com - It gives new meaning to the term

NEEMO's Undersea Operations: Making Telemedicine a Long Distance Reality (SPACE.com)


Supporters of Afghan President Hamid Karzai say he is on course to win the presidential elections, with about one-quarter of the votes counted.

Karzai heading for Afghan victory


OCTOBER 19, 2004 (IDG NEWS SERVICE) - Customers that use the dual-core processors Intel Corp. and Advanced Micro Devices Inc. expect to ship next year won #39;t need to buy extra licenses for Microsoft Corp.


the (International Atomic Energy Agency) board of governors, quot; he said.  quot;A proposal will be put to them. quot;. produce fuel for nuclear weapons -- but Tehran rejected the demand as illegal.

Iran given nuclear deadline


Theater-quality entertainment systems are coming to the car. Is rush hour ready for wireless file swapping?\<br /> Photo gallery: Consumer gear takes a test drive

Digital home entertainment hits the road


BAGHDAD - Iraqi militants threatened to kill an Australian journalist and interrogated him for more than 20 hours after kidnapping him outside a Baghdad hotel.

Journalist: I just kept talking


NEW YORK (Reuters) - The Vanguard Group said on Tuesday it  has lowered expense ratios on six portfolios in its 529 College  Savings Plan sponsored by the state of Nevada.

Vanguard Cuts Fees in Some College Funds


Standard  amp; Poor #39;s on Tuesday said it may cut the debt rating for Constellation Brands (STZ.N: Quote, Profile, Research) deeper into junk, after the wine and beer distributor said it had launched an unsolicited offer of \$970

S amp;P says may cut Constellation Brands #39; debt rating


Microsoft (Quote, Chart) said it has clarified its software licensing policies to address a new trend in microprocessors and to keep the pressure on its rivals.

Single License for Dual Core at Microsoft


ZURICH, Switzerland (Ticker) - Venus Williams got a measure of revenge against Karolina Sprem of Croatia at the Swisscom Challenge on Tuesday.

Venus gets revenge, Mauresmo withdraws


quot;After the momentum we have got in Chennai, we should win the next two Tests. We are quite capable of winning the series, quot; Ganguly said.

We can win the series, says Ganguly


AP - A European laboratory that was the birthplace of the World Wide Web and home of Nobel prize-winning developments in understanding the origins of the universe celebrated its 50th birthday Tuesday. But French President Jacques Chirac warned that despite those illustrious achievements, European scientists are falling behind.

Chirac: Europe Can Do More in Science Race (AP)


roundup Plus: Good Technology supported by HP, Samsung...RIM touts BlackBerry with Wi-Fi...HP to sell Voltaire's InfiniBand switch.

Briefly: Akamai boosts Web application services


The plunge in US insurance stocks widened to include companies such as Aetna Inc. and Humana Inc. on concern New York Attorney General Eliot Spitzer #39;s probe of the industry will drag down profits.

US Insurance Stocks Plunge on Concern About Spitzer (Update3)


AP - FBI, Justice Department and Homeland Security Department officials aren't talking much about the threat of a terrorist attack to disrupt the election in two weeks.

Feds Mum on Pre-Election Terror Threat (AP)


A ball of fire erupts from a train car, smothering commuters with smoke and littering the platform with bodies and staining it with blood in a chilling security-camera videotape of the March 11 train bombings broadcast Tuesday by a Spanish station.

Video Shows March Madrid Bombing


LOS ANGELES (Reuters) - No. 1 video game maker Electronic  Arts Inc on Tuesday reported higher quarterly profits on strong  demand for titles like Madden NFL 2005, but its stock price  fell after a holiday forecast fell short of Wall Street  expectations.

EA Reports Higher Quarterly Profits


p2pnet.net News:- If you #39;re in Britain and you see people peering intently at their mobile phones, tapping their feet and snapping their fingers at the same time, they might be checking out the new Robbie Williams Greatest Hits album.

Album-on-a-card


As expected, Advanced Micro Devices, on Tuesday officially released its new microprocessors aimed at high-end desktop computers. The new chips set the new records in a variety of industrial benchmarks and

AMD Assaults New Performance Heights with New Chips


TOKYO (Reuters) - Japan's Toshiba Corp. <A HREF=

Toshiba to Unveil HD DVD Laptops in 2005 -- Paper


OT quot; gt; Motorola, the world #39;s second-largest maker of cellphones, said yesterday that its profit more than quadrupled in the third quarter and revenue jumped 26 percent compared with the quarter

Profit Jumps at Motorola, but Shares Trade Lower


ENGLAND striker Michael Owen could not have been a happier man after finally finding the net for Real Madrid today. The former Liverpool man had fallen short for his new club and had suffered the brickbats

Owen tastes Real joy


One night after they were pounded by 19 points in a preseason game in Cleveland, the Nets looked like a much different team against the expansion Charlotte Bobcats

NETS 96, BOBCATS 89 Nets Win but They Still Look Out of Sorts


Antonio McDyess and Derrick Coleman understood that coming to the defending NBA champion Detroit Pistons offered the best and worst scenarios for a veteran player.

Veterans face quandary with Pistons


A radical Muslim cleric who is wanted on terrorism charges in the United States was accused by British prosecutors Tuesday of encouraging others to murder non-believers, including Jews, and inciting racial hatred.

Britain Charges Cleric Sought by US for Aiding Terrorism


NEW YORK - US stocks fell on Tuesday as health insurers #39; shares slid on worries that the New York attorney general #39;s probe will hit the entire industry.

US stocks: Market drops as insurers #39; woes offset IBM


EAST RUTHERFORD, NJ - In some ways, the New Jersey Nets are searching for an identity as much as the expansion Charlotte Bobcats. It #39;s the price of being dismantled in the offseason.

Nets 96, Bobcats 89


Kenneth Lay, a founder of the Enron Corporation, will get two criminal trials - one by himself and one with his former protg, Jeffrey Skilling, a judge ruled Tuesday.

3 Former Enron Executives to Share a Trial


(WebMD) Eating a diet rich in soy or taking soy supplements probably won #39;t harm a woman #39;s fertility, according to a new study.

Soy-Fertility Risk Downplayed


Coca Cola is to allow other companies #39; products in its shop coolers for the first time. It has agreed the move in a deal with the European Commission to settle a five year competition case.

Coke opens its coolers to rival products


Reuters - Oil prices ended lower on Tuesday on\signs that high energy costs are slowing the economic growth\that has fueled this year's sharp increase in world oil\consumption.

Oil Eases Again as Fuel Costs Hit Economy (Reuters)


AP - An Army reservist charged with abusing Iraqi prisoners plans to plead guilty at a court martial to four counts arising from the Abu Ghraib prison abuse scandal in a plea deal in which eight other counts will be dropped, his lawyer has said.

Soldier to Plead Guilty in Iraq Abuse Case (AP)


Doc Rivers does not subscribe to the mad scientist, mix-and-match method when it comes to selecting a backup point guard. He does not want a rotation of Marcus Banks, Jiri Welsch, and Delonte West picking up the minutes Gary Payton leaves behind. He does not want the trio of young, inexperienced guards wondering about playing time in addition ...

Logjam at the point


Lucent Technologies' population of retired workers has grown so large over the years, there are four retirees for every active employee on its payroll. With health insurance costs soaring, Lucent now is saying that it's time for retirees to help pay for the benefit.

Facing a fund gap


Jackie Stewart rejects Bernie Ecclestone's claims that the British Grand Prix is dead.

F1: British Grand Prix ruled out


A Colorado man who placed a  quot;transplant wanted quot; ad on a Massachusetts-based Internet site is expected today to receive a kidney donated by a total stranger who simply wanted to do  quot;something big. quot; The transaction marks the first time an organ transplant has been brokered by a commercial web company.

Web-based kidney match raises ethics questions


Spain #39;s Interior Minister says police have broken up a radical Muslim cell, plotting to bomb the country #39;s National Court.

Seven suspected terrorists arrested in Spain


Apple Computer and the rock band U2 have inked a deal to sell customized iPods, The Post has learned. The announcement will be made at a splashy event Oct.

APPLE #39;S NEWEST WRINKLE: THE CUSTOMIZED, U2 IPOD


Donetsk, Ukraine, Oct. 20 -- Shakhtar Donetsks Romanian teenage forward Ciprian Marica believes his sides strong team spirit will see them beat Celtic twice in the UEFA Champions League.

Shakhtar to beat Celtic twice, bets Marica


DHAKA, Bangladesh -- James Franklin became the second New Zealander to take a test hat-trick, on the second day of the first test against Bangladesh in Dhaka.

Franklin claims a test hat-trick


BAOSHAN, China - A strong earthquake shook southwest China. The epicenter of magnitude 5 quakes on the Richter scale was located in the province of Yunnan not far from the city of Baoshan.

Earthquake shook Yunnan, China


Monday's Game 5 of the Red Sox-Yankees series showed an interesting ratings pattern. The window from 5:15-8 p.m., the time allotted for the telecast, did a 42.2 rating and 66 audience share in Boston. Those are terrific numbers for any market. The better news for Fox was that the game was only half-over at that point.

Game 5 marathon rated highly with viewers


More than four million Britons are regular internet gamblers according to new research.

Online gambling attracts surfers


Reuters - Hamid Karzai was cruising to victory in\Afghanistan's first direct presidential elections, but by\Wednesday the returns so far have underscored the ethnic fault\lines that have often divided the country.

Karzai's Big Poll Lead Shows Afghan Ethnic Divide (Reuters)


AFP - Anglican Dean of Sydney Phillip Jensen, whose reported attacks on the Archbishop of Canterbury and Prince Charles sparked a storm of protest last week, claims he never made the comments attributed to him by the media.

Anglican claims he was misquoted over attack on Archbishop of Canterbury (AFP)


Motorola Inc., the world's No. 2 maker of cell phones, on Tuesday said its quarterly profit\more than tripled, as sales rose 26 percent, driven in part by a host of new handset models and cost controls.

Motorola Quarterly Earnings Rise


NEW YORK (Reuters) - Businessman Sam Katz tried to tap into  Warren Buffet's gravy train a decade ago with a plan to make  the legendary investor's lofty Berkshire Hathaway shares more  accessible to the small investor.

Unit Trust Fan Targets Health Care


WASHINGTON - A coalition of New Jersey residents filed a lawsuit Tuesday asking a judge to stop the state from using electronic voting machines in the Nov. 2 election.

NJ residents file lawsuit to block e-voting


Ford Motor Co. swung to a third-quarter profit, but losses at the automakers global automotive operations widened, underscoring the difficulty Ford still faces

Growing auto losses cloud Ford #39;s outlook


AMD is expected to unveil its most powerful desktop processors to date this week, a few days after rival Intel disclosed changes to its desktop processor road map.

AMD readies powerful desktop chips


FCC Chairman Michael Powell said Tuesday that he would seek broad regulatory authority for the federal government over Internet-based telephone services to avoid stifling the emerging market.

FCC Chair to Seek Net Telephone Oversight


AP - If John Kerry is elected president, Massachusetts would end up with its first Senate vacancy in 20 years, triggering a springtime special election that could determine the balance of power in Congress' upper chamber.

Kerry Win Would Trigger Fierce Senate Race (AP)


BEIRUT (Reuters) - Lebanon's Prime Minister Rafik al-Hariri  resigned Wednesday and said he would not form a new government,  following a widely opposed constitutional change to keep the  Syrian-backed president in office.

Lebanon PM Resigns, Says Will Not Head New Govt.


The ritual of organised bullying in the Russian army is getting worse, an international rights group warns.

Russian army bullying 'horrific'


The High Court in London has struck out the bulk of a record 240m libel damages claim brought against the Financial Times by investment bank Collins Stewart Tullet.

230m claim against FT struck out


NEW YORK (Reuters) - Colgate-Palmolive Co. <A HREF=

Colgate Profit Falls on Higher Costs


Ziff Davis - Panelists at SoftSummit point to emerging alternatives to perpetual licensing but say the transition won't be easy.

Software Licensing Moving Toward Subscription, Utility Models (Ziff Davis)


Northwest Airlines Corp. posted a third-quarter loss on Wednesday, compared with profits a year ago, due to rising fuel costs and low-fare competition.

Northwest Airlines Swings to 3Q Loss


In effort to expand market share, firm says it will invest \$100M in Disney #39;s money-losing business. NEW YORK (Reuters) - Children #39;s Place Retail Stores Inc.

Children #39;s Place to buy Disney stores


A terrorist attack believed to be aimed at the national court in Madrid seems to have been foiled by the arrest in the past two days of eight alleged radical Islamists.

Spain arrests eight over plot to bomb court


Geneva - Worldwide sales of industrial robots surged to record levels in the first half of 2004 after equipment prices fell while labour costs grew, the United Nations Economic Commission for Europe said in a report to be released today.

Sales of industrial robots surging: UN report


Service engine maker Cummins Inc. on Wednesday said that third-quarter profits more than quadrupled - beating both its own guidance and Wall Street estimates - and full-year earnings would also exceed previous expectations.

Cummins 3Q Profit More Than Quadruples


BOCHUM - Workers at the Opel carmaking plant in the city of Bochum voted overwhelmingly Wednesday to end their nearly week-long wildcat strike and were to return almost immediately to work, officials announced.

Opel workers abandon wildcat strikes


Harmony Gold Mining, the largest miner of South African gold, made a hostile bid yesterday to acquire Gold Fields Ltd., another South African miner, for 52.

South African Miner in Hostile Bid for Gold Fields


FOXBORO, Mass., (Sports Network) - The New England Patriots  placed rookie wide receiver P.K. Sam on injured reserve  Wednesday with a groin injury.

Patriots Place Sam on Injured Reserve


LONDON (AFP) - A judge at the London High Court struck out the bulk of a record libel damages claim of 240 million pounds (345 million euros, 434 million dollars) against the Financial Times by stockbroker Collins Stewart Tullet.

Judge blocks record libel claim against Financial Times


Bookies take bets on a new Band Aid single being Christmas No 1, expected to be confirmed by Midge Ure.

Bookies take bets on new Band Aid


Peter Petherick welcomed James Franklin into the test hat trick club with open arms last night. The former offspinner, who took his hat-trick on debut against Pakistan in Lahore 28 years

Petherick delighted over Franklin hat trick


Despite Alan Milburn holding his first press conference as Labour #39;s election strategist yesterday, it #39;s unlikely Tony Blair will be able to escape the shadow of Iraq at today #39;s session of PMQs.

LIVE: prime minister #39;s questions


Coca-Cola Bottling Co. Consolidated, the Coca-Cola Co. #39;s major bottler and distributor in the Southeast, said Wednesday that third-quarter profit fell as bad weather, high fuel prices and fewer promotions led to lower volume.

Coca-Cola Bottling #39;s 3Q Profit Drops


A refined map of the human genome shows that humans have even fewer genes than previously thought -- less than 25,000, about the same as a mustard green.

Humans Aren #39;t So Complicated


Reuters - It has revolutionized physics, made

CERN to Probe Life, the Universe and Everything (Reuters)


St. Louis - They trudged off the field at Minute Maid Park wearing glazed expressions, looking anywhere but home plate. That #39;s where Jeff Kent was celebrating a victory that left the Houston Astros one win from their first World Series.

Cardinals hope to fire up offense at home


Tony Blair last night stood accused of conspiring to use British troops in Iraq as a  quot;political gesture quot; to help George W Bush in the US presidential election.

Blair is  #39;Using Our Troops to Boost Bush #39;


The Istanbul technology is meant to replace MSN chat and Windows Messenger. Microsoft has not released much information on the technology, which may not reach market until next year or even later.

Microsoft Tests Advanced IM for Enterprises


AFP - Russia is seeking a new economic partnership to boost a decades-old friendship with India, envisaging sophisticated arms sales, high-end technology swaps and political support on the world stage.

Russia wants new business partnership with old ally India (AFP)


SAO PAULO (Reuters) - Briton Jenson Button will drive for  BAR next year but is likely to join Williams in 2006 after  Formula One's Contract Recognition Board (CRB) ended a  tug-of-war between the teams Wednesday.

Motor Racing: BAR Win Contract Tug-Of-War Over Button


Newcastle boss Graeme Souness was in defiant mood tonight as he attempted to push yesterdays training ground bust-up with striker Craig Bellamy into the background.

Souness Looks Forward


NEW YORK (Reuters) - Countrywide Financial Corp. on  Wednesday posted a 47 percent drop in quarterly earnings and  cut its outlook as mortgage refinancings fell and rates  climbed, sparking a broad sell-off in mortgage-company stocks.

Countrywide Results Spark Sector Selloff


Reuters - The kids have spoken, and it's Sen.\John Kerry with a convincing victory over President Bush on

Kids Opt for Kerry in Bellwether Online Poll (Reuters)


JERUSALEM (Reuters) - Israel's parliament took  extraordinary security steps Wednesday for a vote next week on  a Gaza pullout plan expected to spark Jewish settler protests  and heighten death threats against Prime Minister Ariel Sharon.

Israel Battens Down Hatches for Volatile Gaza Vote


Tabbed browsing, one of the more popular features built into alternative Web browsers, contains a security flaw that puts users at risk of spoofing attacks, research firm Secunia warned on Wednesday.

Tabbed Browsing Flaws Detected


Reuters - U.S. average retail gasoline prices\fell over the last two weeks and are poised to slip even\further as crude oil prices continue to tumble, an industry\analyst said on Sunday.

Gas Prices Continue Slide, Down to  #36;1.93/gallon (Reuters)


Millions of new robots will be installed in households over the next few years, a UN report predicts.

Robo-servants set to sweep into homes


WASHINGTON -- In the absence of congressional action, Federal Communications Commission (FCC) Chairman Michael Powell has taken over the direction of Voice over IP (define) policy in the Capitol, at least for the time being.

FCC Mull November VoIP Vote


Two Muslim girls were expelled Wednesday from high school for refusing to remove their head scarf -- the fourth such expulsions in two days as officials began taking action against

4 French schoolgirls expelled for wearing head scarves


French luxury goods company LVMH Moet Hennessy Louis said Wednesday it plans to buy whisky maker Glenmorangie PLC for about 300 million pounds (euro430.

LVMH Plans to Buy Glenmorangie


MADRID, Oct. 20. - Top-seeded Tim Henman of Britain was all praise for the novel idea of replacing ball boys and girls with fashion models at the Madrid Masters, after thrashing Spaniard Albert Costa 6-4, 6-2, on Wednesday.

Henman crushes Costa


The Securities and Exchange Commission said Wednesday that accounting firm KPMG LLP will pay \$10 million to Gemstar-TV Guide International shareholders to settle allegations it committed improper conduct in Gemstar #39;s audit.

KPMG to settle SEC charges in Gemstar audit case


Valencia may have to ditch their new-found attacking style of football in favour of an  quot;ugly quot; defensive approach if they are to beat Inter Milan in the Champions League, according to club captain David Albelda.

Valencia need to play  #39;ugly #39; against Inter, says Albelda


Arsenal keeper Jens Lehmann was left red-faced in Athens as two costly mistakes ensured that a Champions League victory slipped through his sides fingers again.

Wenger Spares Red-Faced Lehmann


Apple Computer (NASDAQ: AAPL) recently launched its Apple iTunes Store in Canada. But is a website really a store when all the company appears to be doing is charging different rates in each country?

Apple iTunes Store Cost Varies


Customers who use the dual-core processors that Intel and Advanced Micro Devices are expected to begin shipping next year will not need to buy extra licenses for Microsoft software, the software maker will announce next week.

Microsoft To OK One License for Multicore Chips


The US Davis Cup team is gearing up for a tough final against strong Spanish opponents on an unfavorable surface but are optimistic about beating their hosts, said their semi-final team member Mardy Fish.

American Fish Confident About Tough Davis Cup Final


Twenty-five people were confirmed dead and 43 missing as of 5 am after typhoon Tokage passed through Japan, NHK television said on its Web site.

Typhoon Tokage Claims 25 Lives; 43 Missing, NHK TV Reports


NEW DELHI: The Indian government increased the foreign direct investment (FDI) cap yesterday in domestic airlines from 40 to 49 per cent but kept a ban on foreign carriers taking stakes.

India snub for foreign airlines


FOR all the polls that show how football is now America #39;s most popular game, the Yankees-Red Sox showdown for the American League pennant is this year #39;s sweet reminder that October baseball

October Games Provide Moments to Remember


AP - A federal appeals court decided Wednesday that marine mammals have no standing to sue to stop the U.S. Navy from using sonar.

Court: Whales Have No Standing to Sue (AP)


Ten years after it unveiled its first dream house, Microsoft has a new demonstration home showcasing technology that Microsoft is betting will become commonplace within a few years.

Speak Clearly and Carry a Manual


Former Philadelphia Phillies catcher John Russell will be the seventh person to interview for the team #39;s vacant managerial position.

Phillies to interview Russell for vacant manager job


CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. -- A new crew is aboard the International Space Station Wednesday preparing to take over command of the orbiting outpost.

New Crew Prepares For Space Station Duty


The FIA #39;s Contract Recognition Board (CRB) finally got around to deciding whether or not Jenson Button is contractually allowed to go drive for Williams next season.

Button Must Stay With BAR!


Australia #39;s Computershare Ltd. (CPU.AX: Quote, Profile, Research) has agreed to buy the second-largest US share registrar, EquiServe, for \$292 million, quadrupling

UPDATE 2-Computershare buys US EquiServe, shares surge


The Black Coaches Association gave most of the 28 schools that filled head-coaching jobs in I-A and I-AA football last year above-average marks in its first Hiring Report Card.

Report Card In


DONETSK, Ukraine: Brazilian midfielder Matuzalem defied the chilly temperatures to score a double for Shakhtar Donetsk on Wednesday in a 3-0 win which virtually ended Celtic #39;s Champions League ambitions this season.

Soccer: Matuzalem brace ends Celtic #39;s Champions League hopes


Peru's interior minister said Wednesday that police acted in self-defense when they killed three coca farmers who were part of a group that hurled rocks and tried to burn a police lieutenant alive to protest U.S.-backed eradication of their cocaine producing crop.

Peru Gov't: Police Killed in Self-Defense


Canadian Press - BEIJING (AP) - A gas explosion in a coal mine in central China killed 56 people and left scores trapped and missing, the government said Thursday.

Gas explosion in Chinese coal mine leaves 56 dead, scores  missing (Canadian Press)


The steady decline in distillate fuel inventories comes as traders remain jittery about the world's strong demand and limited crude oil supply cushion.

Crude Oil Prices Hit \$55 a Barrel


AP - John Kerry planned to go hunting Thursday, showing he's a regular guy to voters who might harbor some doubts.

Kerry to Go Hunting for Conservative Votes (AP)


Lebanese Prime Minister Rafiq Hariri resigned yesterday in a sign of deepening divisions within Lebanon #39;s fragile government over the decisive role that

Syria #39;s role seen as root of Lebanese political crisis


Brazilian Juninho has apologised for his performance in Celtic #39;s demoralising 3-0 Champions League Group F defeat in the Ukraine last night.

Celtic suffer defeat in Ukraine


Three top Citigroup Inc. executives, including Vice Chairman Deryck Maughan, are leaving the financial services giant in the wake of a scandal at its Japanese private banking unit.

Japan probe claims Citigroup trio


AP - The biggest comeback in postseason baseball history began when David Ortiz had one of the greatest days in baseball history.

Red Sox Slugger Ortiz Named ALCS MVP (AP)


By Bloomberg News. Cingular Wireless, which is buying AT amp;T Wireless, said yesterday that third-quarter sales rose 4.9 percent, to \$4.

Cingular Sales Rise in Quarter, but Profit Falls 18 Percent


BEIJING (Reuters) - A gas explosion in a crowded coal mine  in China killed at least 56 people and left 92 missing with  little hope of surviving the country's most serious mine  accident in years, Xinhua news agency said on Thursday.

China Mine Blast Kills 56, Death Toll Could Soar


A new report from the international consortium of laboratories that decoded the human genome has revised the estimated number of human genes sharply downward.

Human Gene Total Falls Below 25,000


Lucent Technologies yesterday posted higher fiscal fourth- quarter earnings, helping lift the telecommunications equipment maker to its first profitable year since 2000.

Lucent milestone: A profit


World No. 1 Vijay Singh, who is seeking his ninth win on the PGA Tour this year, will play the final three events this season, starting with this week #39;s Funai Classic.

Vijay Singh seeks ninth win of 2004


The Securities and Exchange Commission is expected to announce today a settlement with Qwest that is highly critical of  quot;senior management, quot; two sources familiar with the case said.

SEC may finalize Qwest settlement today


They #39;re bold, brash and break most rules of business -- so why are the Google guys multi-billionaires? GOOGLE Inc had plenty to celebrate at its recent annual summer picnic -- its debut as a public company

Giga counters


California #39;s top insurance regulator said Wednesday he will file a civil suit shortly in the widening scandal over insurance industry sales practices.

California is joining probe of insurers


Arsenal keeper Jens Lehmann was left red-faced in Athens as two costly mistakes ensured that a Champions League victory slipped through his side #39;s fingers again.

Panathinaikos 2, Arsenal 2


Well, not the world maybe, but possibly your lawns and kitchens. The use of robots -- especially as domestic help -- is expected to increase sevenfold by 2007, according to the United Nations.

When Robots Rule the World


Explicit lyrics, parachutes featured in new GTA: San Andreas trailer; official site also updated with info on Las Vegas-style city.

Sinful new GTA: San Andreas trailer revealed


AP - Like fishing in a stocked pond instead of an ocean, politicians are trying to catch votes by targeting phone calls and fliers at voters who have already applied for absentee ballots.

Parties Allowed to Contact Absentee Voters (AP)


COLLINS STEWART was the first company to try to base libel damages on a falling share price. Had the broker succeeded, it would have threatened the Financial Times with a huge liability - and

Share price no basis for lawsuit


At least one Palestinian is shot dead by Israeli troops as he attacked a checkpoint near Gaza City.

Israeli troops kill Gaza militant


USATODAY.com - Organized crime rings and petty thieves are flocking to the Internet like start-ups in the go-go '90s, establishing a multibillion-dollar underground economy in just a few years. The Internet's growth as an economic engine, particularly for financial transactions, is feeding the felonious frenzy.

Crooks slither into Net's shady nooks and crannies (USATODAY.com)


SiliconValley.com - Hewlett-Packard, IBM and Dell, which were accused earlier this year of having

HP, IBM, Dell set code' for treatment of workers (SiliconValley.com)


The use of robots around the home to mow lawns, vacuum floors, pull guard duty and perform other chores is set to surge sevenfold by 2007, says a new U.N. survey, which credits dropping prices for the robot boom.

U.N.: Robot Use to Surge Sevenfold by 2007


LONDON (Reuters) - The dollar fell to an eight-month low  against the euro on Thursday and set multi-month lows versus  the yen, sterling and the Swiss franc amid worries the U.S.  economy was not growing enough to support its currency.

Dollar at 8-Month Low Vs Euro


Pakistan take a slim lead over Sri Lanka by the end of the day two in the first Test.

Cricket: Pakistan edge ahead


Pharmaceutical giant Merck  amp; Co. said Thursday that third-quarter earnings dropped significantly year-over-year on charges related to the withdrawal of Vioxx from the market.

Merck Posts 3Q Profit Drop on Vioxx


NEW YORK (Reuters) - The dollar was weaker across the board  early in New York on Thursday, forging new lows on a growing  sense that the United States is struggling to fund its record  external deficits.

The Dollar Struggles Over Funding Fears


ST. LOUIS, Missouri All of the wounds in this city, colored a fresh shade of cardinal red, healed with just one touch. The winning pitcher was the one who had the fractured hand.

Edmonds homer lifts Cardinals to Game 7 against Astros


Milan and Barcelona offered a nice show on Wednesday night in which the rossoneri defeated their Spanish counterparts 1-0 at San Siro.

Galliani Applauds Both Ancelotti And Rijkaard


New York was in shock today after their beloved baseball team the Yankees suffered a surprise defeat to arch rivals, the Boston Red Sox.

#39;Damned Yankees #39; Send New Yorkers into Mourning


ARSENAL manager Arsene Weenger was today counting his crocks ahead of Sunday #39;s premiership showdown with Manchester United at Old Trafford.

Gunners reel after mugging in Athens


The number of summer visitors to Alaska rose from the year before, prompting the president of the Alaska Travel Industry Association to say tourism appeared to be back on track since leveling off after the 2001 terrorist attacks.

Alaska #39;s summer tourism pegged at 1.4 million visitors


AT amp;T Corp. swung to a third-quarter loss of \$7.12 billion after recording huge charges related to the company #39;s retreat from traditional telephone services, which has included at least 7,500 more job cuts

AT amp;T Posts \$7.1 Billion Loss for the 3Q


The Socialist Group in the European Parliament (EP) on Thursday rejected a proposal by incoming European Commission President Jose Manuel Barroso designed to defuse a row over

Barroso proposal to defuse EU Commissioner row rejected


Texas Instruments Inc. today announced development of the wireless industry #39;s first digital TV on a single chip for cell phones, code-named  quot;Hollywood.

TI Puts Digital TV on Cell Phones


NEC Corporation has announced the worldwide launch and availability of the SX series model  quot;SX-8, quot; the world #39;s most powerful vector supercomputer with a peak processing performance of a whopping 65 TFLOPS (trillion floating point operations per second).

NEC Unveils World #39;s Fastest Vector Supercomputer


Reuters - Four Nigerian military officers and a\civilian were accused Thursday of plotting to overthrow\President Olusegun Obasanjo by firing a rocket at his\helicopter, court documents showed.

Nigerian Military Officers Charged with Coup Plot (Reuters)


AFP - US Democratic presidential candidate John Kerry will switch to macho politics when he makes an atypical hunting trip to rural Ohio in a bid to woo traditionalist male voters, while President George W. Bush courts Catholics in Pennsylvania less than two week before election day.

Kerry to hunt for male US votes as Bush courts Catholics (AFP)


roundup Plus: SGI works on Linux performance software...Good Technology supported by HP, Samsung...RealNetworks loss widens on litigation.

Briefly: Sun expands pay-as-you go supercomputing


Athletic shoe and apparel maker Reebok International Ltd. (RBK) on Thursday posted better-than-expected quarterly earnings, helped by improved sales due to acquisitions and the weak dollar.

Reebok Third-Quarter Earnings, Sales Up


AP - President Bush and Sen. John Kerry are locked in a tie for the popular vote, according to an Associated Press poll. Voters seem open to change in the White House  #151; most disapprove of the president's performance at home and in Iraq  #151; but still harbor doubts about making the switch.

AP Poll: Bush, Kerry in Dead Heat (AP)


Sudan #39;s government and Darfur rebels are likely to restart talks Thursday as the African Union said it would increase its forces in the restive region.

AU OKs more troops for Darfur; talks resume


The human race is plundering the planet at a pace that outstrips its capacity to support life, according to a report by WWF. The Living Planet Report 2004 shows that humans currently consume 20 per cent more

We Are Using 20 More Resources Than The Earth Can Produce


The US Labor Department said Thursday the number of individuals who filed for unemployment insurance fell to a six-week low last week.

Jobless Claims Drop


Don #146;t let less-than-perfect credit prevent you from driving the car you want. Fill out a free loan application at Auto Net Financial and we #146;ll pre-arrange financing at a dealer near you.

ADV: Hassle-Free Car Financing


Trump Hotels  amp; Casino Resorts Inc. (DJTC.OB: Quote, Profile, Research) , which has been on the brink of bankruptcy, said on Thursday that a majority of bondholders have approved

UPDATE 2-Trump bondholders agree on recapitalization plan


CHICAGO (Reuters) - Chocolate maker Hershey Foods Corp.  <A HREF=

Hershey Profit Up, to Sell Cookies


Webshots users offer their photos of Bill Gates mansion in Medina, Wash.

Photo gallery: Bill Gates' home on Lake Washington


The UN General Assembly #39;s legal committee begins a two-day debate today that will focus on the contentious issue. There is support among member states for a treaty banning human cloning, but divisions remain

General Assembly committee opens two-day debate on anti-cloning <b>...</b>


NewsFactor - Microsoft (Nasdaq: MSFT) has hooked up with Swatch to deliver the latest in a line of smart wristwatches using the software giant's MSN Direct wireless content-delivery technology.

Microsoft, Swatch Partner on Wireless Watch (NewsFactor)


MORGANTOWN, W.Va. (U-WIRE) -- Syracuse may enter Morgantown, W.Va., for Wednesday #39;s game under different circumstances than Mountaineer fans are used to from the former Big East powerhouse.

No. 15 West Virginia, Syracuse battle it out for control of first


Britain agreed Thursday to meet a U.S. request for British troops to be moved into volatile central Iraq, a proposal that has met strong opposition within the governing Labour Party.

Britain Agrees to Redeploy Troops


Canadian Press - OTTAWA (CP) - Prime Minister Paul Martin served notice to his Liberal cabinet Thursday to clam up with their personal opinions on the U.S. presidential election.

Keep quiet on U.S. election, Martin tells loose-lipped cabinet (Canadian Press)


SEATTLE (Reuters) - Microsoft Corp. <A HREF=

Microsoft Profit, Revenue Rises


The Motley Fool - The lure of bundling services has been hanging over the communications industry for the past six years or so, although many companies have been unable to perfect a winning strategy. Bundling brings together services such as wired (local and long distance) and wireless phone service, Internet access, and satellite or cable television services.

SBC Bundles Up for Long Term (The Motley Fool)


World Cup hero and England skipper Jonny Wilkinson is set to miss the upcoming Test against Australia with a badly bruised right arm.

Wilko in doubt


SAN FRANCISCO (Reuters) - Intel Corp. <A HREF=

Intel Cancels Plan to Enter Digital TV Chip Market


Einstein was right -- again. Satellites that have been pulled slightly off their orbits show that the Earth is indeed twisting the fabric

Warped Satellites Prove Einstein Theory -Scientists


The company's earnings beat Wall Street expectations.

Strong Server, PC Sales Boost Microsoft Revenue


Disney and Viacom agreed to a fine of \$1.5 million from the Federal Communications Commission over claims their children #39;s cable television networks violated advertising restrictions, the FCC said Thursday.

Viacom, Disney pay \$1.5M FCC fine


In a move that targets the increased threats of worms and viruses to networked businesses, Cisco Systems Thursday said it will acquire privately owned endpoint compliance vendor Perfigo in a deal worth approximately \$74 million.

Cisco #39;s Perfigo Acquisition Delivers Policy Compliance To Channel


FED-UP Freddie Ljungberg says Arsenal must stop letting in stupid goals or face another season of Euro heartache. The disappointed Swede reckons the Gunners have already wasted a golden opportunity

Freddie #39;s goal rage


Environmental organisation WWF International has warned that the global population is consuming about 20 per cent more natural resources than the planet can produce.

Australia  #39;living beyond its means #39;


There is an all but unanswerable case for asserting that the biggest story out of the United States this week has nothing to do with the presidential election, has no connection with the flu vaccine shortage and that it does not involve a gay bishop either

America #39;s curse


IN A week in which one of their former players rechristened himself G8 to distance himself from the past, Middlesbroughs attempts to rewrite history took another step forward in Athens.

Downing provides return on McClaren #39;s gamble


PARIS - Turkish PM Recep Tayyip Erdogan expressed belief on Thursday that the decision that the European Council would make on December 17th (on whether and when to open negotiations with Turkey) would be a milestone for not only Turkey-(EU) relations

Erdogan Believes European Council #39;s Decision Will Be A Milestone


IN A baffling interpretation of the word deliberate, the FA decided yesterday that there was insufficient evidence to charge David Beckham over his premeditated yellow card against Wales.

Beckham gets off scot-free despite candid confession


Einstein was right: Scientists say satellites pulled slightly off their orbits show that the earth is indeed twisting the fabric of space-time as it rotates.

Astronomers find proof of Einstein #39;s theory


At Gartner Symposium ITXPO, Microsoft Chief Executive, Steve Ballmer touched on quite a few topics that are targeted towards Microsoft #39;s end consumers.

Hackers are getting smarter, says Ballmer


JL Lewis shot a 10-under 62 for his best start ever on the PGA Tour and a two-shot lead Thursday in the Funai Classic at Disney. Lewis putted for birdie on every hole and made 11 of them on the Magnolia course to match his career-low round.

Golf Capsules


HEARTS UEFA Cup adventure may have been derailed in Rotterdam but coach Craig Levein can take comfort from the fact he has three more games to get it back on track.

Feyenoord make most of early fortune


Top seed Tim Henman suffered a 6-4,4-6, 6-2 defeat to Croatian Ivan Ljubicic in the Madrid Masters on Thursday as Andre Agassi advanced to the quarter-finals with a 6-1,6-3 victory over Vincent Spadea.

Agassi advances in Madrid, Henman eliminated


GAZA CITY: One of the leaders of Hamas #39; military wing was killed in an Israeli airstrike in Gaza City early today, a Hamas spokesman said.

Hamas military chief killed


Carmelo Anthony, who missed Denver #39;s previous game after being cited for marijuana possession, scored 23 points for the Nuggets in a 100-88 preseason victory Thursday night over the Los Angeles Clippers.

Nuggets 100, Clippers 88