Tuesday, July 31, 2012

Religious freedoms deteriorated in China last year, U.S. says

WASHINGTON (Reuters) - China's respect for religious freedom deteriorated last year as it interfered with Tibetan Buddhist monasteries in ways that may have contributed to a dozen Tibetan self-immolations, the United States said on Monday.

In its annual International Religious Freedom Report for 2011, the State Department said it discerned a rise in anti-Semitism around the world as well as the increased use of anti-blasphemy laws to restrict the rights of religious minorities.

It said conditions worsened in countries such as Iran, where the report cited state "imprisonment, harassment, intimidation and discrimination based on religious beliefs," as well as Pakistan, where "abuses continued under the blasphemy law."

The State Department also cited "a marked deterioration" in official respect for and protection of religious freedom in China, including greater restrictions on religious practice especially in Tibetan Buddhist monasteries and nunneries.

"Official interference in the practice of these religious traditions exacerbated grievances and contributed to at least 12 self-immolations by Tibetans in 2011," the report said.

In Iran, with which the United States has had acrimonious relations since the 1979 Islamic Revolution, religious freedom "deteriorated further from an already egregious situation," the State Department said.

It cited the restoration of 20-year sentences for seven Bahais charged with spying for and collaborating with Israel as well as the imprisonment of Yousof Nadarkhani, a Christian pastor sentenced to death for apostasy.

(Reporting by Arshad Mohammed; Editing by Cynthia Osterman)

Source: http://news.yahoo.com/religious-freedoms-deteriorated-china-last-u-says-164650299.html

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blog-do-autos: Honda

honda

One of the most popular and reliable car manufacturers in the automotive industry right now is Honda. They are a popular Japanese car maker that has automotive plants all over the globe, including the US. One of Honda's most famous models is the Civic. However, Honda has also extended into the production of the sport-utility vehicle or SUV. At present, Honda's premiere SUV is the CR-V. The CR-V was originally built as a compact station wagon, but as the years have gone by, this vehicle has gradually transformed into a crossover and is currently sold to car finders in markets throughout the globe.honda

The Honda CR-V was introduced to the automotive market in 1995. The CR-V was originally intended to be a niche vehicle. That was due in part because Honda was hesitant in marketing this model on a large scale. Honda was uncertain if the CR-V would be capable of taking the place of the Honda Passport as an entry-level SUV in the U.S.honda

Honda's worries were put to rest after entering the CR-V in the 1996 Chicago Auto Show. Car buyers and enthusiasts alike had paid close attention to the CR-V, which was thought to be a good indication of potential sales. In addition to this, Honda also began taking note of the successes Toyota's RAV4 had achieved when it was released to the market.honda

Due to these factors, the CR-V was released in the US in 1997, alongside other SUVs, such as the Subaru Forrester. Since then, the CR-V has started building its reputation as an in-demand and reliable SUV. As of present, Honda is about to release their fourth generation Honda CR-V, which has many new exciting features that are being offered.honda

With all its success and popularity, there is still a question that remains uncertain about the Honda CR-V. What does "CR-V" mean? All through the years, Honda has yet to come up with a concrete answer as to what CR-V stands for. In fact there are a lot of interpretations as to what it stands for.honda

honda

honda

honda

honda

Source: http://blog-do-ateu.blogspot.com/2012/07/honda.html

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Political Power Abroad (TIME)

Share With Friends: Share on FacebookTweet ThisPost to Google-BuzzSend on GmailPost to Linked-InSubscribe to This Feed | Rss To Twitter | Politics - Top Stories Stories, RSS and RSS Feed via Feedzilla.

Source: http://news.feedzilla.com/en_us/stories/politics/top-stories/238479231?client_source=feed&format=rss

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The API Hub: Jeff Bezos-Backed Mashape Launches To The Public With 430 APIs In Tow

Screen shot 2012-07-30 at 12.52.33 PMAugusto Marietti, Marco Palladino and Mike Zonca founded Mashape in November 2010 to create a unified, all-in-one marketplace where one could go to find, sell, distribute, and hack on APIs, believing that APIs would become an essential part of the conversation for developers. Though it wasn't an easy road, last September Mashape raised $1.6 million from NEA, Charles River Ventures, Jeff Bezos, and Eric Schmidt?s Innovation Endeavors -- to name a few. Mashape has been in private beta since, testing its model and "building out the supply-side," says Marietti. Today, the startup is finally throwing back the curtains, officially opening to the public, with new features and inventory in stock.

Source: http://feedproxy.google.com/~r/Techcrunch/~3/bwvuz4BJ_vY/

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Monday, July 30, 2012

Justin Bieber Is Writing 'Dope' Tunes For Selena Gomez And Her ...

justin-bieber-to-write-songs-for-selena-gomez

Oh man! YES!

We've been wondering if/when this was going to happen!

Selena Gomez is hard at work on her next album with her band, The Scene, and it appears that for her fourth go-round in the recording studio, she'll be employing the help of her boyfriend, Justin Bieber, on some new tunes!

According to will.i.am, the Canadian pop sensation PLAYED him the track!

And the Black Eyed Peas frontman confirms:

?He was like, ?Yeah, I wrote it for Selena.? It?s great. And it was really awesome. It was really, really dope.?

Awww! Isn't that sweet?!

And here we thought she was just going to be singing tracks ABOUT him, not tracks written BY him!

But given the wild success of his latest album, Believe, we think she'd be pretty foolish NOT to use her man as a collaborater on some new material!

It's certainly making US all the more excited to hear some new tune-age!

How about U? Are U looking forward to more Selena Gomez & The Scene?!

[Image via WENN.]

Tags: believe, black eyed peas, boyfriend, co-writer, collaborator, justin bieber, new album, selena gomez and the scene, will.i.am

Posted: Jul 29, 2012 at 4:40 pm / Email this ??

Source: http://perezhilton.com/2012-07-29-justin-bieber-to-write-songs-for-selena-gomez

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Thursday, July 26, 2012

Warren Buffett's 7 High Dividend Stock Picks For Income Investors

Warren Buffett Dividend StocksWarren Buffett is one of the greatest investors of all time. He explained in 2006 that one of the best ways of staying wealthy is investing in high dividend stocks with stable businesses, like utilities. We believe buying the highest dividend stocks of Buffett?s portfolio is a good idea because they are the stable ones and delivering good income.

Buffett has been holding on to his positions for years if not decades to minimize taxes. We recommend investors follow a similar strategy in order to protect their investments and grow their portfolio at modest rates. This is a better alternative to investing in long-term government bonds which yield around 2%.

Here are Warren Buffett?s highest dividend stock picks. All stocks in this list have dividend yield of above 3.4%.?See complete list of Buffett?s holdings here. We obtained market data from Finviz and Morningstar, and hedge fund holdings from Insider Monkey.

Stock Market Cap
(Billion $)
Sector Dividend Yield P/E Beta
Gannett Co (GCI) 3.5 Services 5.4% 8.2 2.45
GlaxoSmithKline (GSK) 115.5 Healthcare 4.9% 14.8 0.63
ConocoPhillips (COP) 70.8 Basic Materials 4.7% 6.1 1.14
Sanofi (SNY) 100.8 Healthcare 4.4% 13.1 0.9
Johnson & Johnson (JNJ) 188.5 Healthcare 3.6% 18.9 0.55
Procter & Gamble (PG) 177.4 Consumer Goods 3.5% 20.2 0.43
General Electric (GE) 210.5 Industrial Goods 3.4% 16.3 1.61

Gannett Inc : GCI recently traded at $14.81 with a trailing price to earnings of 8.23 and a forward price to earnings of 6.86.?GCI recently posted Q2 earning per share of 56 cents, which beat estimates by 3 cents, though overall revenue of $1.31 billion was in-line with estimates and down more than 2 percent over the same period a year ago. GCI has a 5.4% dividend yield and gained 12.45% during the past 12 months. The stock has a market cap of $3.5 billion and Total Debt/Equity Ratio of 0.71. GCI has an estimated growth rate of -0.92% for this year and 6.08% for next five years. Buffett had $27 million invested in GCI shares.

Glaxosmithkline Plc : GSK recently traded at $46.26 with a trailing price to earnings of 14.83 and a forward price to earnings of 9.66. Recently,?GSK has bought Human Genome Sciences (HGSI) for $3. billion, or $14.25 per share, with the net value listed a $3 billion minus cash and debt. GSK has a 4.92% dividend yield and gained 11.31% during the past 12 months. The stock has a market cap of $115.5 billion and Total Debt/Equity Ratio of 1.68. GSK has an estimated growth rate of 8.62% for this year and 5.63% for next five years. Buffett had $68 million invested in GSK shares.

ConocoPhillips : COP recently traded at $55.99 with a trailing price to earnings of 6.12 and a forward price to earnings of 8.75. COP has a 4.72% dividend yield and lost 0.02% during the past 12 months. The stock has a market cap of $70.8 billion and Total Debt/Equity Ratio of 0.43. COP has an estimated growth rate of 7.2% for this year and 2.34% for next five years. Buffett had $2.2 billion invested in COP shares.

Sanofi : SNY recently traded at $38.08 with a trailing price to earnings of 13.13 and a forward price to earnings of 9.79. SNY has a 4.44% dividend yield and gained 0.58% during the past 12 months. The stock has a market cap of $100.8 billion and Total Debt/Equity Ratio of 0. SNY has an estimated growth rate of -0.26% for this year and 1.37% for next five years. Buffett had $157 million invested in SNY shares.

Johnson & Johnson : JNJ recently traded at $68.63 with a trailing price to earnings of 18.85 and a forward price to earnings of 12.46. JNJ has a 3.56% dividend yield and gained 7.1% during the past 12 months. The stock has a market cap of $188.5 billion and Total Debt/Equity Ratio of 0.32. JNJ has an estimated growth rate of 7.2% for this year and 6.61% for next five years. Buffett had $1.9 billion invested in JNJ shares.

Procter & Gamble: PG recently traded at $64.73 with a trailing price to earnings of 20.17 and a forward price to earnings of 16.55. PG has a 3.47% dividend yield and gained 3.75% during the past 12 months. The stock has a market cap of $177.4 billion and Total Debt/Equity Ratio of 0.51. PG has an estimated growth rate of 2.62% for this year and 7.27% for next five years. Buffett had $4.9 billion invested in PG shares.

General Electric: GE recently traded at $19.87 with a trailing price to earnings of 16.29 and a forward price to earnings of 11.49. GE has a 3.42% dividend yield and gained 7.58% during the past 12 months. The stock has a market cap of $210.5 billion and Total Debt/Equity Ratio of 3.69. GE has an estimated growth rate of 12.34% for this year and 12.4% for next five years. Buffett had $156 million invested in GE shares.

Source: http://www.insidermonkey.com/blog/warren-buffetts-7-high-dividend-stock-picks-for-income-investors-15363/

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Dr. Shannon Kolakowski: The Hidden Issue That Could Affect Your Relationship

Did you previously have a strong relationship, and now feel disconnected from your partner? Research shows a link between depression and being unhappy with your relationship. Depression can take a happy, healthy relationship and create a cloud around your ability to enjoy the person you love.

With depression, you may become critical of your partner, or doubt your relationship altogether. You may lose interest in intimacy, feel empty, and feel hopeless about the future. Irritability and restlessness can distort your judgment and drive a wedge between you and your partner. You may notice changes in eating more or less, or trouble sleeping. While dealing with your own sadness, your connection with your partner is neglected.

It's a vicious cycle, where all of this causes fighting and builds resentment between the two of you. Often, one or both of you withdraws or shuts down, which ends up making your depression worse.

But you can stop this cycle before it damages your relationship. Here are simple, manageable tips to help.

1. Don't Beat Yourself Up

You might feel self-critical, guilty, or feel unworthy of your partner. Instead of beating yourself up, remember that even though your feeling depressed, you still have all of those great qualities that your partner loves. Embrace the fact that you are always worthy and deserving love.

2. Don't Stay Stuck in the Past

If you have had a bad relationship in the past, don't take it out on your current partner. Bad relationships are how we learn from mistakes. But you may become overly protective or create problems in your current relationship that don't exist. It's essential to learn to separate old wounds from your current relationship. Focus on the here and now, and the relationship between the two of you.

3. It's Not Just Your Partner's Job to Make You Happy, It's Yours!

It is great to get love and comfort from your partner when you're feeling low. But it's not doing you any favors to depend solely on them, all the time. The truth is, you have to also think about how you're contributing to your own happiness. Are you taking care of yourself? Working too much? Are you eating well, getting enough sleep, and making time for friends? Taking ownership of your own emotional wellness will build your confidence and will actually help you to enjoy your partner more.

4. Show Your Partner You Care

Depression makes you focus more on the negative aspects of your partner. Make sure when he or she comes in the door in the evening, don't launch into everything that went wrong that day. Instead, show them you're happy to see them. Give them a hug and kiss. Ask about their day. Thank them for playing with the kids or for making you laugh. Your partner will appreciate hearing the good things. And as an added bonus, it will make you feel better, too. Practicing gratitude daily on a daily basis may help ease the symptoms of depression.

5. Therapy Helps

Either go by yourself, or go as a couple. Remember that it's hard for your partner to know how you feel, especially if they have not experienced depression. A therapist can help you figure out a plan together so that you're working as a team to stop the depression from harming your relationship. And talk to your doctor about medication, as it is very beneficial for many people.

Whatever changes you decide to make, make them now! The sooner you can turn things around, the better you both are going to feel -- and the better chance you have of getting through the depression with a healthy, happy relationship intact.

For more information on depression and relationships, visit Dr. Kolakowski's website or join her on Facebook.

For more by Dr. Shannon Kolakowski, click here.

For more on relationships, click here.

?

Follow Dr. Shannon Kolakowski on Twitter: www.twitter.com/DrShannonK

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Source: http://www.huffingtonpost.com/shannon-kellogg-psy-d/relationship-advice_b_1699973.html

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Finding Accommodation Mornington For A Destination Wedding

Are you looking to add something extra special to your wedding day? Many girls grow up dreaming of a fairy tale wedding, a dream that always includes a setting full of grand opulence and romantic charm for the bride and groom to say those magical vows in. Accommodation in Mornington offers many such stunning locations for the grown up bride to live out her dreams surrounded by her friends and family, and most importantly, her real life prince charming.

The beautiful coastal location offers many options for outdoor and indoor ceremonies, both of which make the most of the uniquely relaxed yet luxurious atmosphere of accommodation in Mornington. There is an almost limitless variety to the ceremony and reception options on the peninsula, including sophisticated winery packages, breathtaking beach weddings and lively resort style celebrations. The stunning natural environment also provides the perfect backdrop for wedding photographs that simply could not be achieved anywhere else.

Planning your special day by the sea is a breeze with the many dedicated small businesses in the area, including marquee specialists, bridal wear designers, event planners and most importantly, the luxurious accommodation providers all over Mornington. Many brides find that the amazing natural landscape of the Victorian coast is much more conducive to stress-free wedding planning than the busy inner city venues, and find that the whole perience feels just as it should: a holiday and a celebration of happy times.

One of the best aspects of destination weddings Mornington accommodation is how much your guests will enjoy the day. Guests of all ages and from both sides of the newly joined family will find something to love in the coastal town, and may even want to extend their stay to explore the many attractions of the Peninsula. When planning your wedding be sure to suggest luxury and budget accommodation options in Mornington, as well as welcoming tokens such as lists of attractions to see and things to do.

Destination weddings are particularly suited to large families where a reunion on neutral ground is a good idea. Everyone relaxes a little more at the seaside and there's nothing better than happy guests to encourage a romantic mood as the bride and groom say their vows. The Peninsula is also perfect for children as there is no shortage of distractions and fun activities to ensure that there are no tantrums, from toddlers or bridezillas, to ruin the day.

About the Author:
This article tells that accommodation mornington is perfect place for the destination wedding. It is dream place for bride and groom to enjoy the day.

Source: http://www.articlesnatch.com/Article/Finding-Accommodation-Mornington-For-A-Destination-Wedding/4061572

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Wednesday, July 25, 2012

Cisco to cut about 1,300 jobs

[ [ [['Connery is an experienced stuntman', 2]], 'http://yhoo.it/KeQd0p', '[Slideshow: See photos taken on the way down]', ' ', '630', ' ', ' ', ], [ [['Connery is an experienced stuntman', 7]], ' http://yhoo.it/KpUoHO', '[Slideshow: Death-defying daredevils]', ' ', '630', ' ', ' ', ], [ [['know that we have confidence in', 3]], 'http://yhoo.it/LqYjAX ', '[Related: The Secret Service guide to Cartagena]', ' ', '630', ' ', ' ', ], [ [['We picked up this other dog and', 5]], 'http://yhoo.it/JUSxvi', '[Related: 8 common dog fears, how to calm them]', ' ', '630', ' ', ' ', ], [ [['accused of running a fake hepatitis B', 5]], 'http://bit.ly/JnoJYN', '[Related: Did WH share raid details with filmmakers?]', ' ', '630', ' ', ' ', ], [ [['accused of running a fake hepatitis B', 3]], 'http://bit.ly/KoKiqJ', '[Factbox: AQAP, al-Qaeda in Yemen]', ' ', '630', ' ', ' ', ], [ [['have my contacts on or glasses', 3]], 'http://abcn.ws/KTE5AZ', '[Related: Should the murder charge be dropped?]', ' ', '630', ' ', ' ', ], [ [['have made this nation great as Sarah Palin', 5]], 'http://yhoo.it/JD7nlD', '[Related: Bristol Palin reality show debuts June 19]', ' ', '630', ' ', ' ', ], [ [['have made this nation great as Sarah Palin', 1]], 'http://bit.ly/JRPFRO', '[Related: McCain adviser who vetted Palin weighs in on VP race]', ' ', '630', ' ', ' ', ], [ [['A JetBlue flight from New York to Las Vegas', 3]], 'http://yhoo.it/GV9zpj', '[Related: View photos of the JetBlue plane in Amarillo]', ' ', '630', ' ', ' ', ], [ [['the 28-year-old neighborhood watchman who shot and killed', 15]], 'http://news.yahoo.com/photos/white-house-stays-out-of-teen-s-killing-slideshow/', 'Click image to see more photos', 'http://l.yimg.com/cv/ip/ap/default/120411/martinzimmermen.jpg', '630', ' ', 'AP', ], [ [['He was in shock and still strapped to his seat', 6]], 'http://news.yahoo.com/photos/navy-jet-crashes-in-virginia-slideshow/', 'Click image to see more photos', 'http://l.yimg.com/cv/ip/ap/default/120406/jet_ap.jpg', '630', ' ', 'AP', ], [ [['xxxxxxxxxxxx', 11]], 'http://news.yahoo.com/photos/russian-grannies-win-bid-to-sing-at-eurovision-1331223625-slideshow/', 'Click image to see more photos', 'http://l.yimg.com/a/p/us/news/editorial/1/56/156d92f2760dcd3e75bcd649a8b85fcf.jpeg', '500', ' ', 'AP', ] ]

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Source: http://news.yahoo.com/cisco-cut-1-300-jobs-202904492--finance.html

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Monday, July 23, 2012

Reputation of Online Poker Machines and Pokies ... - Innovate Gaming

  • Business | 23rd July, 2012 | Ta? Xbiex, Malta | Gambling Addiction ? Video
  • Last week, local gaming site Online Casino Australia and the newspaper Herald Sun, reported the problem of gambling addiction in Australia. The addiction to the types of poker and pokie machines that are readily available in pubs, hotels and beyond are threatening the good reputation of online poker firms.

    Gambling addiction in AustraliaThe gaming firm argues that online and machine gambling cannot be boxed together or placed under the same umbrella.

    ProblemGambling.gov.au recently reported that Australians spend $12bn annually on these machines, losing more money than any other nation. The issue became so serious that Prime Minister Gillard promised a daily loss limit would need to be set by gamblers on cards they use to enable the machines.

    The owners of the licensed clubs offering pokie machines are quick to point out that gambling addiction cannot be blamed on pokies alone. This view is not however, shared by those treating gambling addiction.

    Studies at the Flinders University by Professor Malcolm Battersby, director of the Human Behaviour and Health Research Unit, lays the blame, primarily, on pokies. An expert on Self Management and the treatment of problem gambling, he says the growth in sports betting and online gambling has not resulted in an increase in the number of people they treat.

    This is supported by the case of Leanne Scott, an Adelaide woman recently sentenced to six years imprisonment for stealing money from two employers to fund her online pokie addiction.

    Problem gambling has seen a six fold increase in divorce, a higher tendency to abuse alcohol, cigarettes, and a greater likelihood to raise children to inherit gambling addictions according to an NCBI report. With a social cost of $4.7bn a year, it is a problem that cannot be ignored declares Online Casino Australia, owners of several online gaming brands.

    Online Casino Australia point to free games many online casinos offer as an option for problem gamblers to enjoy without financial commitment. Although free casinos are designed to get gamblers into games and ultimately into the money casino, there is the option of not attaching a card to the account, therefore not making a deposit.

    Anecdotal evidence suggests the availability and accessibility to land based pokies is only fuelling gambling addiction in Australia. Without regulations on maximum bets and loss limits the financial losses will continue.

    About Online Casino Australia
    Online Casino Australia compares free play gaming to non alcoholic beer, or electronic cigarettes. It gives problem gamers an outlet without the threat of social devastation.

    More Information
    Website: OnlineCasinoAustralia.com.au

    Source: Online Casino Australia via BusinessWire

    Source: http://www.innovategaming.com/2012/07/reputation-online-pokies-risk-australia/?utm_source=rss&utm_medium=rss&utm_campaign=reputation-online-pokies-risk-australia

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    It's a boy for Rascal Flatts' Jay DeMarcus, wife

    FILE - This Nov. 8, 2011 file photo shows Jay DeMarcus of Rascal Flatts, left, and his wife, Allison at the 59th Annual BMI Country Awards in Nashville, Tenn. DeMarcus and his wife Allison, a former Miss Tennessee and a current CMT personality, welcomed their second child, a son named Dylan Jay DeMarcus on Friday, July 20, 2012. (AP Photo/Evan Agostini, file)

    FILE - This Nov. 8, 2011 file photo shows Jay DeMarcus of Rascal Flatts, left, and his wife, Allison at the 59th Annual BMI Country Awards in Nashville, Tenn. DeMarcus and his wife Allison, a former Miss Tennessee and a current CMT personality, welcomed their second child, a son named Dylan Jay DeMarcus on Friday, July 20, 2012. (AP Photo/Evan Agostini, file)

    FILE - This Nov. 8, 2011 file photo shows Jay DeMarcus of Rascal Flatts, left, and his wife, Allison at the 59th Annual BMI Country Awards in Nashville, Tenn. DeMarcus and his wife Allison, a former Miss Tennessee and a current CMT personality, welcomed their second child, a son named Dylan Jay DeMarcus on Friday, July 20, 2012. (AP Photo/Evan Agostini, file)

    (AP) ? Rascal Flatts bassist Jay DeMarcus and his wife, Allison, have a new addition to the family.

    The couple's second child and first son, Dylan Jay DeMarcus, was born Friday afternoon in Nashville, Tenn.

    Dylan weighed 7 pounds, 11 ounces and was 20? inches long when born. A news release says mother and child are doing fine. He joins 1-year-old sister Madeline Leigh.

    DeMarcus has a little time at home with his family before hitting the road again Friday in St. Louis for the trio's "Changed" tour.

    ___

    Online:

    http://www.rascalflatts.com

    ___

    Follow www.twitter.com/AP_Country for the latest country music news from the Associated Press.

    Associated Press

    Source: http://hosted2.ap.org/APDEFAULT/4e67281c3f754d0696fbfdee0f3f1469/Article_2012-07-23-People-Rascal%20Flatts/id-7e82d8cc656a4c46ab4d414e27b48824

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    Sunday, July 22, 2012

    Video: ?I envisioned the whole world smiling together"



    >>> after the awful news of the last few days we close with a story tonight that just might give you a reason to smile. the power of a smile is the basis of a new art project on exhibit here in london. it is the work of a woman you likely know well who after suddenly losing her husband found the answer to healing her pain was written across her face.

    >> reporter: there is more than just the olympics and a break from the rain that has londoners smiling these days. the whole world is smiling this light hearted project on display at the serpentine gallery , the hope of artist yoko ono when she mused on the idea.

    >> i envisioned the whole world smiling together.

    >> reporter: the idea that a smile had the power to heal really took hold forono in the days and months after the murder of her husband back when it seemed there could never be anything to smile about.

    >> every day in the morning when i see the mirror i try to smile. it is very hard. in the beginning it was so phony phony. but then i started to really smile.

    >> reporter: she calls the project hash tag smiles film. there was no public internet or twitter back when she started thinking about it. technology has caught up askand ono is asking people to snap a picture and smile.

    >> if we all start to smile in the world something will happen. i think that it will be better for the world maybe.

    >> reporter: featured in the gallery exhibit a slow motion film of lenin breaking into a smile. over the years ono has dedicated herself to peace, a message she shared with her husband. the two famously staged a vetting for peace in 1969 . in 2011 she created the imagine peace tower in iceland. she said she likes to think john is smiling about smiles but it is not hard to.

    >> you think john is smiling with us now?

    >> he would love it. it is the kind of thing he liked.

    >> reporter: ready?

    >> okay. i like this.

    >> reporter: maybe it is true. when you smile the whole world really does smile with you.

    >>> we have put more information on the smiles film project on our website, nbcnightlynews.com. we

    Source: http://video.msnbc.msn.com/nightly-news/48278496/

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    $845000 :: 16671 Fir LN, Lake Oswego OR, 97034 ? Lake Oswego ...

    Property Photo

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    3 beds, 3 full, 1 part baths
    Home size: 3,129 sq ft
    Lot Size: 12,196 sq ft
    Property Type: DETACHD
    MLS Number: 12133621
    Community: Palisades Heights

    Spacious Great Room design. Gourmet kitchen. Dining area w/door to patio. Formal study. Main level private Master Suite w/sitting bay, washer/dryer hookups. Second Master Suite on upper level designed for intergenerational living. Large Family Room retreat w/trade ceiling & built-ins. Boat/swim easement. Still time to Monogram this outstanding house while under construction

    Listed with Soldera Properties, Inc


    Brought to you by Chris Larsson, Coldwell Banker Seal. Call me today at 503-683-2897!

    The content relating to real estate for sale on this web site comes in part from the IDX program of the RMLS? of Portland, Oregon. All real estate listings are marked with the RMLS? logo, and detailed information about these properties includes the names of the listing brokers. Listing content is ? 2009 RMLS?, Portland, Oregon.


    Lake Oswego Map Seach
    Tags: estate, $845000, Soldera Properties, 16671 Fir LN, Lake

    lake oswego real estate agent

    Chris Larsson- Lake Oswego Real Estate Agent

    Let me help you find everything you need to know about buying or selling real estate in Lake Oswego, OR! I have been a top-producing Coldwell Banker real estate professional for over 8 years in LO. I am 120% dedicated to providing world-class concierge level service to my clientele.


    SEARCH THE LAKE OSWEGO MLS AND REAL ESTATE LISTING HERE...

    Source: http://www.97034realestate.com/blog/845000-16671-fir-ln-lake-oswego-or-97034-lake-oswego-homes-for-sale-lake-oswego-real-estate-97034-lake-oswego-real-estate-agent/

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    Saturday, July 21, 2012

    Governor signs law to make California home to nation's first truly high-speed rail

    California Gov. Jerry Brown speaks Wednesday in Los Angeles before signing a bill to create a high-speed rail project.

    STORY HIGHLIGHTS

    • The world standard for high-speed rail is 186 mph to 220 mph, industry experts say
    • The California project will be the only U.S. line reaching those speeds, officials say
    • California Gov. Jerry Brown signs a bill funding the first leg of high-speed rail line
    • The new line eventually will connect Los Angeles and San Francisco

    Los Angeles (CNN) -- California is poised to become home to the nation's first truly high-speed rail system with Gov. Jerry Brown's signing Wednesday of a law authorizing the first leg of construction for a line that will eventually connect Los Angeles and San Francisco.

    California will issue $2.6 billion in bonds, with the federal government providing an additional $3.2 billion, to build the initial segment of the high-speed rail between Merced and the San Fernando Valley on the north side of Los Angeles, officials said.

    The high-speed rail project was part of a transportation bill signed by Brown that calls for general improvements to the state's rail system involving a total of $4.7 billion in state funding matched with $7.9 billion in federal and local funds, officials said.

    "This legislation will help put thousands of people in California back to work," Brown said at Union Station in downtown Los Angeles, according to a news release. "By improving regional transportation systems, we are investing in the future of our state and making California a better place to live and work."

    Rail industry aims to hire 5,000 veterans in 2012

    The California High-Speed Rail Authority says the rail line initially will allow passengers to zip between San Francisco and Los Angeles via the Central Valley in two hours and 40 minutes.

    The line is envisioned to carry travelers between Los Angeles and San Diego in 80 minutes and, in the northern part of the state, will eventually connect to Sacramento, the authority said. In all, the 800 miles of track will include up to 24 stations, the authority said.

    Andy Kunz, president and CEO of the U.S. High Speed Rail Association, said the California high-speed train will travel at 220 mph.

    "California will be home to the nation's first true high-speed rail," Kunz told CNN. "True high-speed rails around the world are running between 186 miles an hour to 220 miles an hour. That's pretty much the standard in the world."

    The closest speed to the California project is Amtrak's Acela Express in the Northeast, which averages 80 mph between New York City and Washington, D.C., but reaches 150 mph for a few miles near Boston, Kunz said. That line is not built on a dedicated high-speed track as California's line will be, he said.

    "California leads the way for many new things in this country, whether it's organic food or high technology or filmmaking. This will be the chance for California to lead the nation in transportation as well," he said.

    High-speed rail isn't vulnerable to the rising global fuel prices that afflict the airline industry, and it will relieve highway gridlock, he said.

    California Senate approves funding for high-speed rail

    "High speed is the only thing coming over the horizon that can actually give us a better future," said Kunz, whose nonprofit trade association seeks a 17,000-mile national high-speed rail system by 2030.

    Joseph Shelhorse, the association's vice president of business development, said his group is working with developers on private-public partnerships to build high-speed track beds in exchange for real estate development rights above and around high-speed train stations -- much as the U.S. government under President Abraham Lincoln did for the first transcontinental railroad.

    The California project, however, has had its share of critics, including John Tos, an almond farmer.

    "We want them to stay off the land. It is not our intention to allow this to happen through our property. We farmed here for a reason, the tranquility of it all. This is farming country. And we want to keep it like that," he said earlier this year.

    Other critics are concerned about the potential for cost overruns, and question the project's timing given the economic slump. Joe Simitian, a Democratic state senator, was among those who voted against the bill.

    "The question we have to ask ourselves today is -- even if you support the vision -- is this a plan that is worthy of our support?" he said during debate.

    President Barack Obama is a big supporter of high-speed rail. His administration has proposed spending $53 billion on a national high-speed rail network, while he has set the goal of giving 80% of Americans access to high-speed rail within 25 years.

    'Ferrari' train driving high-speed rail renaissance

    Source: http://rss.cnn.com/~r/rss/cnn_mostpopular/~3/B7_XbbK4NDU/index.html

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    Wednesday, July 18, 2012

    GOP Senate candidates to appear at forum

    By ASSOCIATED PRESS ??Wednesday, July 18, 2012 - 5:14 a.m.

    ADVERTISEMENT

    MILWAUKEE?Wisconsin?s GOP primary for the U.S. Senate is four weeks away, and all four Republican candidates are campaigning in earnest.
    The four are all scheduled to attend a forum in Milwaukee on Wednesday. The candidates will appear separately and will have 30 minutes apiece for speeches and a question-and-answer session.

    The forum is sponsored by the Citizens for Responsible Government Network, which works to elect conservative candidates. Group spokesman Orville Seymer says all four candidates have confirmed their attendance.
    The four Republicans are hedge-fund manager Eric Hovde, former Wisconsin Gov. Tommy Thompson, state Assembly Speaker Jeff Fitzgerald and former U.S. Rep. Mark Neumann.
    They?ll square off in a primary on August 14. The winner advances to take on Democratic U.S. Rep. Tammy Baldwin in November.

    Source: http://gazettextra.com/weblogs/latest-news/2012/jul/18/gop-senate-candidates-appear-forum/

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    Summer Salads ? JRCX

    SUMMER SALADS

    Its hot days of Summer you might find lighter, smaller meals much more refreshing. ?The above is a perfect examle. ?You have your cherry tomatoes sliced in half with a shred of fresh basil, and half of bocconcini mozzarella (mini balls of mozzarella), drizzle with olive oil, serve with good Italian or French bread, and you are set. ?Sure, wine works fine, but so does unsweetened fresh brewed Iced Tea.

    You can also go with the traditional italian Salads like cucumber, onion, tomato oregano, or even the panzanella which is tomatoes, stale bread chopped into cubes, basil, olive oil and vinegar, and the vinegar can easily be red wine, chianti or balsamic vinegar. ?This is enough to fill you up, keep your hydrated since its mostly water, and keep you from feeling the full effects of a heatwave. ?Plenty of water helps, cut back on the sugar and alcohol, and some salt (some) will help your body retain the salt its sweating out and also keep you hydrated. ?Also consider cold macaroni salads with pasta, vegetables,, olives, raisins, no matter what, keep it light, drink water and eat foods you know contain its fair share of water. ?You might not like air conditioning (most do, I don?t) but its valuable for the respiratory system, instead of hot stagnant air, enjoy at least an hour or two in the air conditioning, it will relax you, help you breathe better and will take the edge off all the sweating and heat bombarding your body.

    Like this:

    Be the first to like this.

    Source: http://jrcx.wordpress.com/2012/07/17/summersalads/

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    Tuesday, July 17, 2012

    Free Pets to Good Home ? Blog Archive ? Exactly What You Have ...

    A discus fish tank should be given consideration and care. This particular is where the discus will thrive. There are numerous factors that have to be enhanced to make certain the aquarium will probably be at its best and also would be able to support the life of the fish. The particular environment of the fish has to be full and comfy in order for them to live longer.
    ?
    The bigger the tank, better, the discus fish develops very quickly and this will cause unnecessary stress. The minimum size should be 55 gallons.

    The discus fish tank ought to be located in a quiet and also peaceful environment, away from direct sunlight as well as heat in order to avoid the chances of forming unsightly algae. Remember that discus fish are very sensitive and you should avoid them from feeling endangered inside the fish tank to be able to lessen the stress.

    Besides the discus fish tank, owners right should also think about the types of food that you will supply the discus fish. By providing them the particular meal for the fish, you could help them avoid diseases such as brine shrimp, tubifex worm, bloodworm, beef heart, dry food or even pellets for young types as well as for adult discus. Make sure to clean the tank regularly and also to change it once in a while.

    Discus Fish Tank Filter Types

    Filters are essential in the discus fish tank; the power filters within the tank may take away the impurities and can undergo 3 processes such as the biological, mechanical and also chemical to make certain that the procedure would be effective.

    Keep in mind that this process is needed simply because fish produce waste from excrement and respiration. In addition to that, the uneaten food or plants which have died have to be removed so the fish would avoid toxic contamination from the decomposing organic matter in the tank. The bigger the tank and also the higher the quantity of the fish, the greater the need to make sure that a filter exists.

    The actual discus fish would certainly live longer within the appropriate conditions and may turn into a very profitable habit. Many love the discus fish and also by providing them with the right living space we can extend.

    The possibility of enhancing the number of the young that will survive will increase because of the remarkable discus fish tank conditions. It does fundamental to keep your discus fish tank in the best condition.

    To explore this type of fish, pay a visit to this site: discus fish information.

    Source: http://siscer.net/articles/pets/exactly-what-you-have-to-understand-concerning-discus-fish-aquarium/

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    Monday, July 16, 2012

    COMPUTER KNOWLEDGE: COMPUTER KNOWLEDGE

    Generation of Computers
    It is important to realize that major changes and trends in computer systems have occurred during the major? stages-or generations-of computing, and will continue into the future. The first generation of computers developed in the early 1950s, the second generation blossomed during the late 1960s, the third generation took computing into the 1970s, and the fourth generation has been the computer technology of the 1980s and 1990s. A fifth generation of computers that accelerates the trends of the previous generations is expected to evolve as we enter the 21st century. Notice that computers continue to become smaller, faster, more reliable, less costly to purchase and maintain, and more interconnected within computer networks.
    First-generation computing involved massive computers using hundreds or thousands of vacuum tubes for their processing and memory circuitry. These large computers generated enormous amounts of heat; their vacuum tubes had to be replaced frequently. Thus, they had large electrical power, air conditioning, and maintenance requirements. First-generation computers had main memories of only a few thousand characters and millisecond processing speeds. They used magnetic drums or tape for secondary storage and punched cards or paper tape as input and output media.
    Second-generation computing used transistors and other solid-state, semiconductor devices that were wired to circuit boards in the computers. Transistorized circuits were much smaller and much more reliable, generated little heat, were less expensive, and required less power than vacuum tubes. Tiny magnetic cores were used for the computer?s memory, or internal storage. Many second-generation computers had main memory capacities of less than 100 kilobytes and microsecond processing, speeds. Removable magnetic disk packs were introduced, and magnetic tape merged as the major input, output, and secondary storage medium for large computer installations.
    Third-generation computing saw the development of computers that used integrated circuits, in which thousands of transistors and other circuit elements are etched on tiny chips of silicon. Main memory capacities increased to several megabytes and processing speeds jumped to millions of instructions per second (MIPS) as telecommunications capabilities became common. This made it possible for operating system programs to come into widespread use that automated and supervised the activities of many types of peripheral devices and processing by mainframe computers of several programs at the same time, frequently involving networks of users at remote terminals. Integrated circuit technology also made possible the development and widespread use of small computers called minicomputers in the third computer generation.
    Fourth-generation computing relies on the use of LSI (large-scale integration) and VLSI (very-large-scale integration) technologies that cram hundreds of thousands or millions of transistors and other circuit elements on each chip. This enabled the development of microprocessors, in which all of the circuits of a CPU are contained on a single chip with processing speeds of millions of instructions per second. Main memory capacities ranging from a few megabytes to several gigabytes can also be achieved by memory chips that replaced? magnetic core memories. Microcomputers, which use microprocessor CPUs and a variety of peripheral devices and easy-to-use software packages to form small personal computer (PC), systems or client/server networks of linked PCs and servers, are a hallmark of the fourth generation of computing, which accelerated the downsizing of computing systems.
    Whether we are moving into a fifth generation of computing is a subject of debated since the concept of generations may no longer fit the continual, rapid changes occurring in computer hardware, software, data, and networking technologies. But in any case, we can be sure that progress in computing will continue to accelerate, and that the development of Internet-based technologies and applications will be one of the major forces driving computing into the 21st century.

    Computer System? Concepts and Components

    The Computer System Concept:
    A computer is more than a high-powered collection of electronic devices performing a variety of information processing chores. A computer is a system, an interrelated combination of components that performs the basic system functions of input, processing, output, storage, and control, thus providing end users with a powerful information processing tool. Understanding the computer as a computer system is vital to the effective use and management of computers.
    A computer is system of hardware devices organized according to the following system functions.
    Input:
    The input devices of a computer system include keyboards, touch screens, pens, electronic mice, optical scanners, and so on.
    Processing:
    ?The central processing unit( CPU) is the main processing component of a computer system. (In microcomputers, it is the main microprocessor.) In particular, the electronic circuits of the arithmetic-logic unit one of the CPU?s major components, perform the arithmetic and logic functions required in computer processing.
    Output:
    ?The output devices of a computer system include video display units, printers, audio response units , and so on, They convert electronic information produced by the computer system into human intelligible form for presentation to end users.
    Storage:
    ?The storage function of a computer system takes place in the storage circuits of the computer?s primary storage unit, or memory, and in secondary storage devices such as magnetic disk and tape units. These devices store data and program instructions needed for processing.
    Control:
    ?The control unit of the CPU is the control component of a computer system. Its circuits interpret computer program instructions and transmit directions to the other components of the computer system.
    Central Processing Unit:
    The central processing unit is the most important hardware component of a computer system. It is also known as the CPU, the central processor or instruction processor, and the main microprocessor in a microcomputer. Conceptually, the circuitry of a CPU can be subdivided into two major subunits the arithmetic-logic unit and the control unit. The CPU also includes circuitry for devices such as registers and cache memory for high speed, temporary storage of instruction? operations, input/output, and telecommunications support.
    The control unit obtains instructions from software segments stored in the primary storage unit and interprets them. Then it transmits electronic signals to the other components of the computer system to perform required operations. The arithmetic-logic unit performs required arithmetic and comparison operations .A computer can make logical changes from one set of program instructions to another (e.g, overtime pay versus regular pay calculations) based on the results of comparisons made in the ALU during processing.
    Main Memory and Primary Storage Unit:
    A computer?s primary storage unit is commonly called main memory, and holds data and program instructions between processing steps and supplies them to the control unit and arithmetic-logic unit during processing. Most of a computer?s memory consists of microelectronic semiconductor memory chips known as RAM (random access memory ). The contents of these memory chips can be instantly changed to store new data. Other, more permanent memory chips called ROM (read only memory) may also be used.
    Secondary storage devices like magnetic disks and optical disks are used to store data and programs and thus greatly enlarge the storage capacities of computer system. Also, since memory circuits typically lose their contents when electric power is turned off, most secondary storage media provide a more permanent type of storage. However the contents of hard disk drives floppy disks, CD-ROM disks, and other secondary storage media cannot be processed without first being brought into memory. Thus secondary storage devices play a supporting role to the primary storage of a computer system.
    Multiple Processors:
    Many current computers, from microcomputers to large mainframes, use multiple processors for their processing functions. Instead of having one CPU with a single control unit and arithmetic-logic unit, the CPUs of these computers contain several type of processing units. Let?s briefly look at the major types of such multiprocessor designs.
    A support processor design relies on specialized microprocessors to help the main CPU perform a variety of functions. These microprocessors may used for input/output, memory management, arithmetic computations, multimedia processing, and telecommunications, thus freeing the main processor to do the primary job of executing program instructions For example, many microcomputers rely on support microprocessors such as arithmetic co-processing load on their main microprocessors. A large computer may use support microprocessors called channels to control the movement of data between the CPU and input/output devices. Advanced microprocessor designs integrate the functions of several support processors on a single main microprocessor.
    A coupled processor design uses multiple CPUs or main microprocessors to do multiprocessing, that is, executing more than one instruction at the same time. Some configurations provide a fault-tolerant capability in which multiple CPUs provide a built-in backup to each other should one of them fail.
    A parallel processor design uses a group of instruction processors to execute several program instructions at the same time. Some times, hundreds or thousands of processors are organized in clusters or networks in massively parallel processing (MPP) computers. Other parallel processor designs are based on simple models of the human brain called neural networks. All of these systems can execute many instructions at a time in parallel. This is a major departure from the traditional design of current computers, called the Von Neuman design, which executes instructions serially (one at a time). Though difficult to program, many experts consider parallel processor systems the key to providing advanced capabilities to future generations of computers.
    RISC Processors:
    ??? Many advanced technical workstations and other computers rely on a processor design called RISC (reduced instruction set computer). This contrasts with most current computers that use CISC (complex instruction set computer) processors. RISC processor designs optimize a CPU?s processing speed by using a smaller instruction set. That is, they use a smaller number of the basic machine instruction that a processor is capable of executing. By keeping the instruction set simpler than CISC processors and using more complex software, a RISC processor can reduce the time needed to execute program instructions.
    Computer Processing Speeds:
    Computer operating speeds that were formerly measured in milliseconds (thousands of a second) and microseconds (millionths? of a second) are now in the nanosecond (billionth of a second) range, with picosecond (trillionth of a second) speed being attained by some computers. Such speeds seem almost incomprehensible. For example, an average person taking one step each nanosecond would circle the earth above 20 times in one second. Many microcomputers and midrange computers, and most mainframe computers, operate in the nanosecond range, and can thus process program instructions at million instructions per second (MIPS) speeds. Another measure of processing speed is megahertz (MHs), or millions of cycles per second. It is commonly called the clock speed of a microprocessor, sine it is used to rate microprocessors by the speed of their timing circuits or internal clock.
    However, megahertz, ratings can be misleading indicators of the effective processing speed of microprocessors as measured in MIPS and other measures. That?s because processing speed depends on a variety of factors besides a microprocessor?s clock speed. Important examples include the size of circuitry paths, or busses, that interconnect microprocessor components, the capacity of instruction processing registers, the use of high-speed memory caches, and the use of specialized microprocessors such as a math co-processor to do arithmetic calculations faster. For example, Intel?s Pentium microprocessor runs at 66 to 200 MHz and is rated at over 100 MIPS, which the Pentium Pro microprocessor has a top processing rating of over 200 MIPS at similar megahertz speeds.

    Computer Storage Fundementals and Devices

    Data and information must be stored until needed using a variety of storage methods. There are many types of storage media and devices.
    Computer Storage Fundamentals:
    Data are processed and stored in a computer system through the presence or absence of electronic or magnetic signals in the computer?s circuitry or in the media it uses. This is called a ?two-state? or binary representation of data, since the computer and the media can exhibit only two possible states or conditions. For example, transistors other semiconductor circuits are either in a conducting or nonconducting state. Media such as magnetic disks and tapes indicate these two states by having magnetized spots whose magnetic fields have one of two different directions, or polarities. This binary characteristic of computer circuitry and media is what makes the binary number system the basis for representing data in computers. Thus, for electronic circuits, the conducting (ON) state represents the number one, while the nonconducting (OFF) state represents the number zero. For magnetic media, the magnetic field of a magnetized sport in one direction represents a one, while magnetism in the other direction represents a zero.
    The smallest element of data is called a bit, which can have a value of either zero or one. The capacity of memory chips is usually expressed in terms of bits. A byte is a basic grouping of bits that the computer operates as a single unit. Typically, it consists of eight bits and represents one character of data in most computer coding schemes. Thus, the capacity of a computer?s memory and secondary storage device is usually expressed in terms of bytes. Computer codes such as ASCII (American Standard Code for Information Interchange) use various arrangements of bits to form bytes that represent the numbers zero through nine, the letters of the alphabets, and many other characters.
    Storage capacities are frequently measured in kilobytes (KB), megabytes (MB), gigabytes (GB), or terabytes (TB). Although kilo means 1,000 in the metric system, the computer industry uses K to represents 1,024 or (210) storage positions. Therefore, a capacity of 10 megabytes, for example, is really 10,485,760 storage positions, rather than 10 million positions. However, such differences are frequently disregarded in order to simplify descriptions of storage capacity. Thus, a megabyte is roughly 1 million bytes of storage, while a gigabyte is roughly 1 billion bytes and a terabyte represents about 1 trillion bytes.
    Direct and Sequential Access:
    Primary storage media such as semiconductor memory chips are called direct access or random access memories (RAM). Magnetic disk devices are frequently called direct access storage devices (DASDs). On the other hand, media such as magnetic tapes are known as sequential access devices.
    The term direct access and random access describe the same concept. They mean that an element of data or instructions (such as a byte or word) can be directly stored and retrieved by selecting and using any of the locations on the storage media. They also mean that each storage position (1) has a unique address and (2) can be individually accessed in approximately the same length of time without having to search through other storage positions. For example, each memory cell on a microelectronic semiconductor RAM chip can be individually sensed or changed in the same length of time. Also any data record stored on a magnetic or optical disk can be accessed directly in approximately the same time period.
    Sequential access storage media such as magnetic tape do not have unique storage addresses that can be directly addressed. Instead, data must be stored and retrieved using a sequential or serial process. Data are recorded one after another in a predetermined sequence (such as in numeric order) on a storage medium. Locating an individual item of data requires searching much of the recorded data on the tape until the desired item is located.
    Semiconductor Memory:
    The primary storage (main memory) of your computer consists of microelectronic semiconductor memory chips. Memory chips with capacities of 4 million bits (4 megabits) and 16 megabytes or more of memory chips can be added to your PC to increase its memory capacity. Specialized memory can help improve your computer?s performance. Examples include external cache memory of 256 or 512 kilobytes to help your microprocessor work faster, or a video graphics accelerator card with 2 megabytes or more of RAM for faster and clearer video performance. Removable credit-card-size and smaller ?flash memory? RAM cards can also provide several megabytes of erasable direct access storage for PDAs or handheld PCs.
    Some of the major attractions of semiconductor memory are its small size, great speed, and shock and temperature resistance. One major disadvantage of most semiconductor memory is its volatility. Uninterrupted electric power must be supplied or the contents of memory will be lost. Therefore, emergency transfer to other devices or standby electrical power (through battery packs or emergency generators) is required if data are to be saved. Another alternative is to permanently ?burn in? the contents of semiconductor devices so that they cannot be erased by a loss of power.
    Thus, there are two basic types of semiconductor memory: random access memory (RAM) and read only memory (ROM).
    RAM:
    random access memory. These memory chips are the most widely used primary storage medium. Each memory position can be both sensed (read) and changed (written), so it is also called read/write memory. This is a volatile memory.
    ROM:
    read only memory. Nonvolatile random access memory chips are used for permanent storage. ROM can be read but not erased or overwritten.
    Frequently used control instructions in the control unit and programs in primary storage (such as parts of the operating system) can be permanently burned in to the storage cells during manufacture. This is sometimes called firmware. Variations include PROM (programmable read only memory) and EPROM (erasable programmable read only memory) that can be permanently or temporarily programmed after manufacture.
    Magnetic Disk Storage:
    Magnetic disks are the most common form of secondary storage for your computer system. That?s because they provide fast access and high storage capacities at a reasonable cost. Magnetic disk drives contain metal disks that are coated on both sides with an iron oxide recording material. Several disks are mounted together on a vertical shaft, which typically rotates the disks at speeds of 3,600 to 7,600 revolutions per minute (rpm). Electromagnetic read/write heads are positioned by access arms between the slightly separated disks to read and write data on concentric, circular tracks. Data are recorded on tracks in the form of tiny magnetized spots to form the binary digits of common computer codes. Thousands of bytes can be recorded on each tracks, and there are several hundred data tracks on each disk surface, thus providing you with billions of storage positions for your software and data.
    Types of Magnetic Disks:
    There are several types of magnetic disk arrangements, including removable disk cartridges as well as fixed disk units. Removable disk devices are popular because they are transportable and can be used to store backup copies of your data offline for convenience and security.
    Floppy disks or magnetic diskettes, consist of polyester film disks covered with an iron oxide compound. A single disk is mounted and rotates? freely inside a protective flexible or hard plastic jacket, which has access openings to accommodate the read/write head of a disk drive unit. The 31/2 inch floppy disk, with capacities of 1.44 megabytes, is the most widely used version, with a newer LS-120 technology offering 120 megabytes of storage.
    Hard disk drives combine magnetic disks, access arms, and read/write heads into a sealed module. This allows higher speeds, greater data-recording densities, and closer tolerances within a sealed, more stable environment. Fixed or removable disk cartridge versions are available. Capacities of hard drives range from several hundred megabytes to gigabytes of storage.
    RAID:
    ?Disk arrays of interconnected microcomputer hard disk drives have replaced large-capacity mainframe disk drives to provide many gigabytes of online storage. Known as RAID (redundant arrays of independent disks), they combine from 6 to more than 100 small hard disk drives and their control microprocessors into a single unit. RAID units provide large capacities with high access speeds since data are accessed in parallel over multiple paths from many disks. RAID units also provide a fault tolerant capability, since their redundant design offers multiple copies of data on several disks. If one disk fails, data can be recovered from backup copies automatically stored on other disks.
    Magnetic Tape Storage:
    Magnetic tape is still being used as a secondary storage medium in business applications. They read/write heads of magnetic tape drives record data in the form of magnetized spots on the iron oxide coating of the plastic tape. Magnetic tape devices include tape reels and cartridges in mainframes and midrange systems, and small cassettes or cartridges for PCs. Magnetic tape cartridges have replaced tape reels in many applications, and can hold over 200 megabytes.
    One growing business application of magnetic tape involves the use of 36-track magnetic tape cartridges in robotic automated drive assemblies that can hold hundreds of cartridges. These devices serve as slower, but lower cost, storage to supplement magnetic disks to meet massive data warehouse and other business storage requirements. Other major applications for magnetic tape includes long-term archival storage and backup storage for PCs and other systems.
    Optical Disk Storage:
    Optical disks are a fast-growing storage medium. The version for use with micro computers is called CD-ROM (compact disk- read only memory). CD-ROM technology use 12-centimeter (4.7 inch) compact disks (CDs) similar to those used in stereo music systems. Each disk can store more than 600 megabytes. That?s the equivalent of over 400 1.44 megabyte floppy disks or more than 300,000 double-spaced pages of text. A laser records data by burning permanent microscopic pits in a spiral track on a master disk from which compact disks can be mass produced. Then CD-ROM disk drives use a laser device to read the binary codes formed by those pits.
    CD-R (compact disk ? record able) is another optical disk technology. It enables computers with CD-R disk drive units to record their own data once on a CD, then be able to read the data indefinitely. The major limitation of CD-ROM and CD-R disks is that recorded data cannot be erased. However, CD-RW
    (CD-rewritable) optical disk systems have now become available which record and erase data by using a laser to heat a microscopic point on the disk?s surface. In CD-RW versions using magneto optical technology, a magnetic coil changes the spot?s reflective properties from one direction to another, thus recording a binary one or zero. A laser device can then read the binary codes on the disk by sensing the direction of reflected light.
    Optical disk capacities and capabilities have increased dramatically with the emergence of an optical disk technology called DVD (digital video disk or digital versatile disk), which can hold from 4.0 to 8.5 gigabytes of multimedia data on each side of a compact disk. The large capacities and high quality images and sound of DVD technology are expected to eventually replace CD-ROM and CD-RW technologies for data storage, and promise to accelerate the sue of DVD drives for multimedia products that can be used in both computers and home entertainment systems.
    Blu-Ray and HD-DVD are two new optical storage technologies that fight as the successor of DVD. Both HD-DVD and Blu-ray are high-definition optical disc formats, incompatible with each other. They were meant to replace the existing DVD format, which was and still is used by a large user community. HD-DVDs and Blu-ray discs are similar in terms of the higher storage capacities and a superior picture quality offered by them. Their storage capacities are higher than those of CDs and DVDs. However, a single layer HD-DVD can store 15 GB data whereas a single-layer Blu-ray disc stores 25 GB data.

    Major Types of? Computer Systems

    Microcomputer Systems:
    Microcomputers are the most important category of computer systems for end users. Though usually called a personal computer, or PC, a microcomputer is much more than a small computer for use by an individual. The computing power of microcomputers now exceeds that of the mainframes of previous computer generations at a fraction of their cost. Thus, they have become powerful networked professional work stations for end users in business.
    Microcomputers come in a variety of sizes and shapes for a variety of purposes. For example, PCs are available as handhled, notebook, laptop, portable, desktop, and floor-standing models.? Based on their use, they include home, personal, professional, workstation, and multi-user systems. Most microcomputers are desktops designed to fit on an office desk, or notebooks for those who want a small, portable PC for their work activities.
    Some microcomputers are powerful workstation computers (technical work-stations) that support applications with heavy mathematical computing and graphics display demands such as computer-aided design (CAD) in engineering, or investment and portfolio analysis in the securities industry. Other microcomputers are used as network servers. They are usually more powerful microcomputers that coordinate telecommunications and resource sharing in small local area networks (LANs), and Internet and intranet Web sites. Another important microcomputer category includes handheld microcomputer devices known as personal digital assistants (PDAs), designed for convenient mobile communications and computing. PDAs use touch-screens, pen-based handwriting recognition of keyboards to help mobile workers send and receive E-mail and exchange information such as appointments, to do lists, and scales contacts with their desktop PCs or Web servers.
    Multimedia Computer Systems:
    Multimedia PCs are designed to present you with information in a variety of media, including text and graphics displays, voice and other digitized audio, photographs, animation, and video clips. Mention multimedia, and many people think of computer video games, multimedia encyclopedias, educational videos, and multimedia home pages on the World Wide Web. However, multimedia systems are widely used in business for training employees, educating customers, making sales presentations, and adding impact to other business presentations.
    The basic hardware and software requirements of a multimedia computer system depend on whether you wish to create as well as enjoy multimedia presentations. Owners of low-cost multimedia PCs marketed for home used do not need authoring software or high-powered hardware capacities in order to enjoy multimedia games and other entertainment and educational multimedia products. These computers come equipped with a CD-ROM drive, stereo speakers, additional memory, a high-performance processor, and other multimedia processing capabilities.
    People who want to create their own multimedia production may have to spend several thousand dollars to put together a high-performance multimedia authoring system. This includes a high-resolution color graphics monitor, sound and video capture boards, a high-performance microprocessor with multimedia capabilities, additional megabytes of memory, and several gigabytes of hard disk capacity. Sound cards and video capture boards are circuit boards that contain digital signal processors (DSPs) and additional megabytes of memory for digital processing of sound and video. A digital camera, digital video camcorder, optical scanner, and software such as authoring tools and programs for image editing and graphics creation can add several thousand dollars to the star-up costs of a multimedia authoring system.
    Midrange Computer Systems:
    Midrange Computers, including minicomputers and high-end network servers, are multi-user systems that can manage network of PCs and terminals. Though not as powerful as mainframe computers, they are less costly to buy, operate, and maintain than mainframe systems, and thus meet the computing needs of many organizations.
    Midrange computers first became popular as minicomputers for scientific research, instrumentation systems, and industrial process monitoring and control. Minicomputers could easily handle such uses because these applications are narrow in scope and do not demand the processing versatility of mainframe systems. Thus, midrange computers serve as industrial process-control and manufacturing plant computers, and they still play a major role in computer-aided manufacturing (CAM). They can also take the form of powerful technical workstations for computer-aided design (CAD) and other computation and graphics-intensive applications. Midrange computers are also used as front-end computers to assist mainframe computers in telecommunication processing and network management.
    Midrange computers have become popular as powerful network servers to help manage large Internet Web sites, corporate intranets and extranets, and client/server networks. Electronic commerce and other business uses of the Internet are popular high-end server applications, as are integrated enterprise wide manufacturing, distribution and financial applications. Other applications, like data warehouse management, data mining, and online analytical processing.
    Mainframe Computer Systems:
    Mainframe computes are large, fast, and powerful computer systems. For example, mainframes can process hundreds of million instructions per second (MIPS). Mainframes also have large primary storage capacities. Their main memory capacity can range from hundreds of megabytes to many gigabytes of primary storage. And mainframes have slimmed down drastically in the last few years, dramatically reducing their air-conditioning needs, electrical power consumption, and floor space requirements, and thus their acquisition and operating costs. Most of these improvements are the result of a move from water-cooled mainframes to a new CMOS air-cooled technology for mainframe systems.
    Thus, mainframe computers continue to handle the information processing needs of major corporations and government agencies with many employees and customers or with complex computational problems. For example, major international banks, airlines, oil companies, and other large corporations process millions of sales transactions and customer inquiries each day with the help of large mainframe systems. Mainframes are still used for computation-intensive applications such as analyzing seismic data from oil field explorations or simulating flight conditions in designing aircraft. Mainframes are also widely used as super server for the large client/server network and high-volume Internet Web sites of large companies.
    Supercomputer Systems:
    The term supercomputer describes a category of extremely powerful computer systems specifically designed for scientific ,engineering, and business applications requiring extremely high speeds for massive numeric computations. The market for supercomputers includes government research agencies, large universities, and major corporations. They use supercomputers for applications such as global weather forecasting, military defense systems, computational cosmology and astronomy, microprocessor research and design, large-scale data mining and so on.
    Supercomputers use parallel processing architectures of interconnected microprocessors (which can execute many instructions at the same time in parallel). They can perform arithmetic calculations at speeds of billions of floating-point operations per second (gigaflops). Teraflop (1 trillion floating-point operations per second) supercomputers, which use advanced massively parallel processing (MPP) designs of thousands of interconnected microprocessors, are becoming available. Purchase prices for large supercomputers are in the $5 million to $50 million range.
    However, the use of symmetric multiprocessing (SMP) and distributed shared memory (DSM) designs of smaller numbers of interconnected microprocessors has spawned a breed of minisuper computers with prices that start in the hundreds of thousands of dollars.

    Source: http://computer-awareness.blogspot.com/2012/07/computer-knowledge.html

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