Wikipedia:Reference desk archive/Miscellaneous/January 2006

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[edit] January 1

[edit] Books of Wisdom above 33 degrees?

There is a buzz around that some institution of higher learning has broken the seal of Solomon and has released a brand new book of Wisdom, revealing wisdom above 33° from Solomon's Temple? Any informaton on published data on the subject?

The ritual information revealed in Masonic and other organizations' rites is not actually from such places as Solomon's Temple. A glimpse at our articles on Solomon's temple and Freemasonry will make that clear. Given that, it is quite impossible for a university or research institution to have done what you talk about. My father, a lifelong Mason who recently did advanced work, is unaware of any new rituals above the (honorary) 33 degree in that organization. --George 22:03, 1 January 2006 (UTC)

[edit] Small Island

Does anybody know of any small inhabited islands roughly 3 by 8 miles beginning with A?

Try looking here List of islands. CambridgeBayWeather (Talk) 00:39, 1 January 2006 (UTC)
These look better List of islands by name and Islands (look for ones about 62km2 or 24 sq mi). CambridgeBayWeather (Talk) 00:48, 1 January 2006 (UTC)

[edit] Slippers

This is probably a strange place to ask, but I'm not sure where else to do so. I'm looking for a good pair of luxury ("designer") mens' slippers. Any tips? --Anon.

  • Try here. It's Amazon.com's Mens Slippers, highest price first. Or here, a simple Google search. Happy New Year! Deltabeignet 05:23, 1 January 2006 (UTC)
    • I've always been happy with the stuff from Woolrich and L.L. Bean. Dismas|(talk) 18:14, 1 January 2006 (UTC)
      • Try www.overstock.com - the stuff is great and the price is right.

[edit] Guns

--207.102.164.73 01:31, 1 January 2006 (UTC)marquisa@...t I am looking for information on the first gun ever built. It was called an arcabus (the spelling could be off)If anyone knows anything about this could they please let me know. Edit - removed email.

Try arquebus. alteripse 01:35, 1 January 2006 (UTC)
However, the earliest gun would be the Gonne, not the Arquebus GeeJo (t) (c) • 02:32, 1 January 2006 (UTC)

[edit] Collegeboard/ETS?

The articles for both Collegeboard and ETS state that they are indepedent entities, and that one "administers" the test while the other "develops" it or something ambiguous like that. What exactly is the distinction? -JianLi 16:22, 28 December 2005 (UTC)

It looks like Collegeboard set the exams, and ETS mark them (to a provided mark scheme). Morwen - Talk 16:25, 28 December 2005 (UTC)

[edit] Where did the hejab originate?

Try Hijab as it has information. CambridgeBayWeather (Talk) 04:38, 1 January 2006 (UTC)

[edit] Does Italy have "pictures" as symbols for different words

My boyfriend and i want to get matching tatoos. We are both Italian and think it would be fit to put love, trust and friendship. We would like to do it in symbols instead of words and i was hoping that maybe there is some sort of Italian symbol for each just as, for example, the Celtic symbol is the Celtic knot. —Preceding unsigned comment added by 67.76.84.227 (talk • contribs)

I don't believe Italy has such a thing. The closest I could think of would be writing it all in Latin. You could try looking for Ancient Roman symbology. (Also, the 'meanings' behind Celtic knotwork are relatively modern - we have no proof that they meant anything.) DuctapeDaredevil 21:12, 3 January 2006 (UTC)

[edit] jeezy and akon

about young jeezy and akon, are they related? well i came up with this question because jeezy(or akon i think) gave a hint on 106 and park about it so im wondering if its true.


this question might be more easily answered by people who have time to waste on such things...67.142.130.29 04:49, 4 January 2006 (UTC)

[edit] Unknown necklace symbol

What is this?
What is this?

I found the following necklace among a big box of jumble. It came with a small insert saying "what it was and what it does" which I wished to parody on my blog (does anyone actually buy these things!?) but alas i threw the paper away. Does anyone know what this represents (if anything) - i'd much appreciate any help anyone can give :) -Benbread 12:11, 1 January 2006 (UTC)

It's a rune, specifically a tiwaz. From [1]: "Tiwaz: (T: Tyr, the sky god.) Honor, justice, leadership and authority. Analysis, rationality. Knowing where one's true strengths lie. Willingness to self-sacrifice. Victory and success in any competition or in legal matters. Tiwaz Reversed or Merkstave: One's energy and creative flow are blocked. Mental paralysis, over-analysis, over-sacrifice, injustice, imbalance. Strife, war, conflict, failure in competition. Dwindling passion, difficulties in communication, and possibly separation." Natgoo 12:57, 1 January 2006 (UTC)
Tyr was not the "sky god". He was the god of war. --BluePlatypus 16:16, 1 January 2006 (UTC)
The page linked to above could be clearer, granted - they need a semicolon between 'Tyr' and 'the sky god' instead of a comma. The Tyr article tells us that Tyr "goes back to a Proto-Germanic Tîwaz, continuing Proto-Indo-European Dyeus". Moving on to the Dyeus article, we read that "he was the god of the daylit sky" and "addressed as the Sky Father". According to these articles, then, Tiwaz is both Tyr and the sky god. Natgoo 16:40, 1 January 2006 (UTC)
Ha! I should have read the Tyr article further - there is a whole section on this particular rune. Try the Tyr rune, Benbread. Natgoo 16:48, 1 January 2006 (UTC)
Looks like an arrow to me. Kid Apathy 21:30, 1 January 2006 (UTC)
Spot on, Kid. Without a frame of reference, it's a bit much to say categorically what it "is". JackofOz 00:02, 2 January 2006 (UTC)

[edit] Australian new years honours list.

Does anyone have a link to the Australian new year's honours list?

Is this: http://www.itsanhonour.gov.au/ what you need? - Akamad 20:33, 1 January 2006 (UTC)
We don't do honours on New Year's Day, we do them on Australia Day and the Queen's Birthday. See Order of Australia. I think some military honours are also handed out on Anzac Day. --Robert Merkel 22:58, 1 January 2006 (UTC)

[edit] computer ram

if i buy a computer with 256mb ram can i upgrade it by buying a 512mb ram and putting it in?

If it's a newer computer it can probably handle it but without knowing the model number and manufacturer, there's no way of saying definitely whether or not it would work. Dismas|(talk) 15:33, 1 January 2006 (UTC)

You can with most PCs, but still check it out.

  • What you want to check for is to make sure that you have an empty bank of RAM on the motherboard or that the RAM which comes with it can be removed. You might also want to check exactly what kind of RAM it takes and how available it is ahead of time, both to check if it is available (it probably is) and whether you will save much by scrimping. But generally speaking, yes, you can usually upgrade RAM separately on new computers and you can often save a lot of money by doing it through a 3rd party rather than buying your RAM direct from the computer distributor. --Fastfission 22:15, 1 January 2006 (UTC)
  • Crucial's website has a service to check what is the right memory for most common computer systems. Try there first. If you computer is there it will tell you the kind of memory it can take and how much. - Taxman Talk 14:31, 2 January 2006 (UTC)

You more than likely can add RAM (memory to it) make sure it is the right speed of RAM, it has to match exactly. Most computers nowadays have about 512 RAM in them. RAM allows you to open more windows and do more options like also play a CD at the same time without slowing down your computer. 256 RAM isn't bad if you are just using your computer for e-mail and IMing. If you are doing something like gaming with heavy graphics or graphic engineering you would need at least 512 RAM, probably 1 GB (Gigabyte) for good performance. -Rod O-

[edit] commodities

What was the second most traded commodity in the world in 2004?

Not antimatter, if it's that expensive. Kid Apathy 22:23, 1 January 2006 (UTC)
According to this page ("After oil, coffee is the world’s most traded commodity") it's coffee. I'm a bit sceptical though - to begin with, the page doesn't say if it's counted in weight, volume or value. And even though oil seems reasonable as #1, there are many commodities that I personally use a lot more of (wheat for example, or water). And I live in the second-most coffe-drinking country in the world, Sweden! This page seems more reasonable to me, but they also, unfortunately, seem to have a totally differing definition of "commodity". So the answer, really, is "it depends", I guess. You'll get more possible sources if you google for "most traded" commodities world TERdON 00:22, 2 January 2006 (UTC)

For another older discussion on this see Talk:Coffee#Economic Aspects of Coffee. DirkvdM 18:46, 2 January 2006 (UTC)

[edit] Worth its weight in gold?

Just wondering... What is the most expensive thing in the world per unit mass? How much is it worth?--Fangz 20:15, 1 January 2006 (UTC)

I'm not sure by mass, but by volume, it is apparently printer ink. smurrayinchester(User), (Talk) 20:24, 1 January 2006 (UTC)
Cecil Adams thinks it is (or was) californium-252. --zenohockey 20:30, 1 January 2006 (UTC)
I'd say antimatter, at about $2,000,000,000,000 per ounce. GeeJo (t) (c) • 20:34, 1 January 2006 (UTC)
Antimatter, according to what Google turned up, costs "$62.5 trillion per gram". - Fredrik | tc 20:34, 1 January 2006 (UTC)
Definitely antimatter, but you might also want to check Treskilling Yellow. ☢ Ҡieff⌇↯ 22:47, 1 January 2006 (UTC)
I guess it remains to make a Treskilling Yellow out of antimatter.--Fangz 00:18, 2 January 2006 (UTC)
Kids until you have grandchildren. Will always cost more money than you have but in the end are worth it.CambridgeBayWeather (Talk) 23:39, 1 January 2006 (UTC)
Children should be eaten and not heard. Which makes them more immediately useful than antimatter, I guess, but I still think it's more expensive. --George 19:21, 2 January 2006 (UTC)

Umm... cocaine is significantly more expensive than gold by volume. Approximately $60/gram retail, depending on your location.

Is Inkjet ink still more expensive than gold, or was that a myth? Ojw 01:00, 3 January 2006 (UTC)
Checking up, the RSPB claims that printer ink is actually just the most expensive liquid (more than champagne, oil or rocket fuel). Presumably molten gold is worth more than inkjet ink though. smurrayinchester(User), (Talk) 17:09, 3 January 2006 (UTC)

In spices, saffron is quite pricey, while in medications, epoetin is extremely expensive, especially when you discount the water and only consider the active ingredient. StuRat 22:29, 5 January 2006 (UTC)

Weighing in at 2,300,000 troy ounces (71,668 kg), each B-2 Bomber cost over $950.00 per troy ounce ($30/g) which is just under double its weight in gold. TomStar81 00:17, 7 January 2006 (UTC)

[edit] Odd

What would it be if someone thought they were insane, but it turned out just to be a delusion? Kid Apathy 20:37, 1 January 2006 (UTC)

Delusions don't qualify as insanity? —Keenan Pepper 21:42, 1 January 2006 (UTC)
Quite often they do, sometimes. I think. Kid Apathy 21:43, 1 January 2006 (UTC)
Then they are delusionally insane. --Nelson Ricardo 22:33, 1 January 2006 (UTC)

This is a false paradox, a semantic artefact, not a real paradox. alteripse 00:13, 2 January 2006 (UTC)

Semantic artefact, eh? What does that even mean? Kid Apathy 14:33, 2 January 2006 (UTC)
Well, an artefact is something that is 'made' or (here, rather) 'made up'. Semantics is about the meaning of words. So 'semantic artefact' would refer to juggling with words to suggest a meaning that does not exist in the real world. I came up with this without looking up the term (look mum, no hands!). Am I close? DirkvdM 18:52, 2 January 2006 (UTC)
Spot on, as they say somewhere. Lots of apparent paradoxes have no reality other than a contradiction created by imprecise language. Recognizing this resulted in lots of metaphysicians having to find day jobs. alteripse 18:58, 2 January 2006 (UTC)

[edit] Back itching

Why would putting my socks on make my back itch?

Could be you're hitting a reflex zone. :) GeeJo (t) (c) • 02:39, 2 January 2006 (UTC)
While there's no real reason I can think of here's another idea. If perhaps at one time when you put your socks on, as a coincidence your back became itchy. This set up in your mind the idea that putting on socks makes your back itchy. Now, every time you put them on then your brain tells you that your back is itchy. This is not quite as silly as it sounds. After getting very sick from eating spoiled mushrooms I find that I can no longer eat them at all. Yet even though I know that fresh mushrooms will not make me sick I am unable to eat them. CambridgeBayWeather (Talk) 02:43, 2 January 2006 (UTC)
It could be that you have dry skin on your back, and when you bend over to put on your socks, you stretch that dry skin and irritate it. Also, are you putting on your socks after taking a shower? Soap can further dry your skin, so you'll notice it as you dress. Moisturize! 66.47.17.237 16:32, 4 January 2006 (UTC)TheSPY
It may have to do with your shoes to: every time you remove your foot from a shoe the sock your waring will have collected everything in your shoe. Additionally, when one washes socks one usually adds soap and stain removers, so its possible you skin is reacting to some chemical in the cleaning supplies. TomStar81 00:21, 7 January 2006 (UTC)

[edit] XP Startup

How do I stop programs in XP from starting up? --hello, i'm a member | talk to me! 21:23, 1 January 2006 (UTC)

You mean stopping a program from being executed automatically at startup? There's 4 places to look:
  • First, look in Start Menu>Programs>Startup and remove any unwanted entries.
  • Then use the registry editor to locate the keys HKEY_LOCAL_MACHINE/Software/Microsoft/Windows/Currentversion/Run and Runonce (directly below) and remove any unwanted entries (be careful here, regedit doesn't have an undo function, and it's easy to completely mess up your XP installation if you don't know exactly what you are doing).
  • Some programs might also be executed as a service (ie, a background task); these can be controlled from control panel>administrative tools>services (again, be careful not to deactivate necessary services).
  • Finally, locate a file called win.ini, open it with the text editor and look for an entry called "run="; some programs might be started that way. Note: win.ini is there for backward compatibility with the stone age (ie, Win3.11), I am not sure if starting programs from there still works in XP (I am fairly certain it still worked in Win2k, though).
Hope that helped, -- Ferkelparade π 21:41, 1 January 2006 (UTC)
  • Some anti-adware software centralizes all of this and makes it pretty easy to see what is starting up and disable it safely. I know that Spybot - Search & Destroy has a tool that does this included in it; it might make things easier for you than messing with the Registry, which can be daunting and dangerous for someone who doesn't know how to use it. --Fastfission 22:10, 1 January 2006 (UTC)
  • Rather than look in all four places mentioned above, you can use Start->Run->msconfig to get a built-in tool to look at and disable startup programs.-gadfium 23:19, 1 January 2006 (UTC)
    • This is an excellent solution. You might also want to try CCleaner.

[edit] Chesapeake Bay

What is the name of the peninsula directly east of the Chesapeake Bay? I'm talking about the one that includes Delaware, eastern Maryland, and a bit of land belonging to Virginia.

--24.29.92.197 21:41, 1 January 2006 (UTC)

Try Delmarva Peninsula, I think it's waht you want. CambridgeBayWeather (Talk) 22:00, 1 January 2006 (UTC)

[edit] Trying to find out something about my family

I'm not entirely sure if you can help me or not, but I am trying to trace back some of my family history, but with not much luck. I have quite an unusual surname and my family originates in the Durham area of England, Uk. This seems to be where Right Honourable James Craggs the Elder (see links below) came from. I would like to trace back my family history and rule in or out affiliation (if there is any) with this man, as the family name comes from the same area, which is certainly not very large at all.

Can you help me to trace the family history of James Craggs the Elder to as near to the present day as possible, and if poss. let me how a title becomes extinct, relating to the Viscount Clare peerage, which seems to be related to the 1st Earl Nugent, Robert Craggs-Nugent?

Thank you so much for your time, and I look forward to hearing from anyone!

Regards


James Craggs

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Robert_Nugent,_1st_Earl_Nugent

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/James_Cragg_the_Elder

172.201.149.185

See the history of the Earl Nugent. 66.82.9.33 04:34, 2 January 2006 (UTC)

[edit] money makers' sites

I came across many sites that suggest it's possible making (a lot of) extra money without ever leaving home by simply :

1- paying an entry fee (one to some hundred dollars)

2- entering data/ doing some typing/ doing some contacts (mails, phone calls, etc.) for companies that will be notified to the person that will accept to enter in that sort of business.

Generally at the end, in a sort of a "Disclaimer Statement", the site practically disclaims all responsibility for/over the promises made in the beginning of the proposal (certainty of gain, ease of use/contact, etc.). This leaves me very suspicious and insecure.

Am I right to feel so? Is there any catch(es) to avoid? Are there any forums or blogs that discuss mishappenings or bad experiences linked to the kind of sites I described?

Thank you for your help and advice.

You will not hear anything from them after step 1 - they just want that entry fee. No honest employer ask for an entry fee to give you work. Simply forget it unless you have a lot of money to waste, but that one you better donate to Wikimedia :-) andy 22:22, 1 January 2006 (UTC)
There is a forum called internet-fraud.com (I haven't really looked at it myself, so I don't know how useful it is). The Wikipedia article on Internet fraud also gives plenty of information about the different types of fraud out there, and what to look out for. - Akamad 10:36, 2 January 2006 (UTC)

[edit] January 2

[edit] Family Friendly Gaming magazine?

How come you list gaming magazines like Gamepro, and EGM but not Family Friendly Gaming?

www.familyfriendlygaming.com is their website.

Feel free to create an article on it yourself! Just click here and type what you know about it. --zenohockey 02:02, 2 January 2006 (UTC)
Wikipedia is not a directory of everything on the internet. For discussion of website article inclusion, see WP:WEB. If you do think that the page warrants inclusion, then be bold and create it yourself - but be aware that it may be subsequently deleted.--Fangz 02:05, 2 January 2006 (UTC)
I'm guessing it may have to do with the site's apparent lack of popularity.[2] --Maxamegalon2000 04:07, 2 January 2006 (UTC)

[edit] what is another name for smoked salmon?

Lox. User:Zoe|(talk) 03:43, 2 January 2006 (UTC)

[edit] Budgets

There are various types of budgets such as operating, capital complimentary and comprehensive. I am having a hard time finding any information on complimentary budgets. Would you be able to help please?

I think you may mean "complementary budget". Neither term appears within the articles at Wikipedia. -- Rick Block (talk) 04:17, 2 January 2006 (UTC)

[edit] Spiderwick

There is a series called Spiderwick, is it true stories? Because at the start of the 1st one they show they letter they got from the grave children, Holly Black types that it is true, if it's not or if it is can you please show me your proof that it isn't or it is?

Please don't vote.

It's fictional. I remember Fargo did a similar thing, putting a notice at the start of the film proclaiming that the film was based on true events when in fact it's not. the filmmakers felt that if the entire film is fictinal, why should the disclaimer be true? GeeJo (t) (c) • 04:21, 2 January 2006 (UTC)
However, it may just be referring to the Cottingley Fairies GeeJo (t) (c) • 04:21, 2 January 2006 (UTC)
The Spiderwick article says they are fantasy and book sellers list them under Juvenile Fiction so I would say they are fiction. CambridgeBayWeather (Talk) 04:22, 2 January 2006 (UTC)

[edit] On average how much are volcanologists paid and which college in the Oregon Columbia Gorge should i go to?

I want to be a volcanologist when I graduate from college so i was wondering which college I should go to in Oregon I should go to because that is where i want to live and on average how much would i be paid.

Thank you, April

Start with Do you want to become a volcanologist? and Work as a volcanologist. At the first on you can ask questions. You would then need to research which college would be the best. There is no information at volcanologist. CambridgeBayWeather (Talk) 05:25, 2 January 2006 (UTC)
Are you sure you want the Oregon Columbia Gorge? May I recommend the University of Hawaii at Hilo, my alma mater? My roommate worked, as an undergraduate, in the Center for the Study of Active Volcanoes and loved it. Of course, he ended up moving to Portland after getting his B.S. Mitchell k dwyer 09:33, 2 January 2006 (UTC)
Wasn't this asked before? About one or two months ago, possibly at the science ref desk. DirkvdM 18:57, 2 January 2006 (UTC)

[edit] social lives of home schooled children

What does the phrase "healthy social lives" mean? Thank you very much.

A chance to interact with people outside the family in a variety of relationships. Society has an interest in whether chidren are raised in a way that they can function outside the family. An example of an "unhealthy" social life occurs when one member restricts and controls all the interactions of the others with people outside the home. alteripse 05:17, 2 January 2006 (UTC)

[edit] Morgan Silver Dollar

Depending on condition of the coin, how much could an 1888 Morgan Silver Dollar be worth these days?

--24.29.92.197 04:45, 2 January 2006 (UTC)

Try Morgan Dollars and scroll down. There are three types. CambridgeBayWeather (Talk) 05:19, 2 January 2006 (UTC)

[edit] Hedi Slimane

who is hedi slimane?

Try Hedi Slimane's offical website. CambridgeBayWeather (Talk) 05:19, 2 January 2006 (UTC)

[edit] about management information systems

[edit] Fairies

I was wondering if there was a site about fairie sightings in Australia? And also what is the difference between Fairie and Faerie?

There does not seem to be any. The spelling fairie seems to be a common mistake. The plural of fairy is fairies but there is no dictionary entry for fairie that I can find. If you google fairie it will show 500,000+ hits but asks if you wanted faerie. CambridgeBayWeather (Talk) 06:17, 2 January 2006 (UTC)

And then there's also the "fairy" spelling. I think "faerie" is especially popular amonst fantasy writers and those havea knack for odd spellings. - 131.211.210.11 10:33, 2 January 2006 (UTC)

There is no tradition of faeries in Australian folklore, either within dreamtime or post-1788 mythology (Aboriginal legends centred instead on larger creatures like bunyips). Roisterer 10:54, 2 January 2006 (UTC)

Frequently, the spelling "Faerie" is used for the land where the Fairies dwell. User:Zoe|(talk) 01:48, 3 January 2006 (UTC)

[edit] DVD-RAM

How can I play it in my PC?--TheDoctor10 (talk|email) 07:48, 2 January 2006 (UTC)

  • RAM means random access memory. Don't you mean DVD-ROM? Anyway, does your computer have a DVD player or recorder. They are similar to CD-ROM drives, but read (and/or write) DVDs instead. - 131.211.210.11 10:35, 2 January 2006 (UTC)
  • DVD-RAM is a special kind of DVD drives that never became a consumer hit. Its main use has been backup systems, but even there it's not ubiqutous. Most drives nowadays don't have support for it. Unless you have an old drive around, you'll probably have to shop specifically for this feature as it normally isn't included anymore in standard drives. Count on having to pay more than for a regular drive. TERdON 15:00, 2 January 2006 (UTC)
RAM indeed means 'random access memory', but what they meant is that the disk is writeable, which is something completely different. It's a misconception that RAM is the opposite of ROM (which means 'read only memory'). Just because of the stupidity of the name (a disk can never be ram) I'm glad that that attempt at a standard did not succeed. DirkvdM 19:02, 2 January 2006 (UTC)

A DVD-RAM disc can play in your DVD-based drive, assuming that drive is compatible. I would need to know the actual model of your drive, and possibly the firmware as well, to be certain.

MSTCrow 12:18, 3 January 2006 (UTC)

[edit] Psychology symbols

Is there a symbol used by psychologists, or representing psychology, in the way the Caduceus is used for physicians?

Well, at least here in Brazil they use the greek letter Psi, shown at right
Is it a coincidence that looks like a pitchfork? --Phroziac . o º O (♥♥♥♥ chocolate!) 14:09, 7 January 2006 (UTC)

[edit] career path

For the same question i asked on 31 dec 2005, i want to continue with giving my own information which is asked by answerer.Here it is: From childhood my math and science r good.I have done Bhachlors degree from pune university with First class and Masters in chemical engg from IIT kgp with 8.84/10 cgpa.I am technically sound.I also have interest in sports too like boxing, but i haven't tried that one. NOw doing job in a reputed company still i don't know whether i am utilising my all potential or not.Will you suggest me what will b the apropriate path for me to do justice for my education and also earning handsome money.Don't advise for business it requires lot of investment which i cann't do.

It would appear from your writing that English is not your first language, so if you want a career in an English speaking nation, you need to do serious improvement in your communication skills. For example, you have not put this into the earlier Q+A area, which means you lack the English skills to read the instructions at the top of the page. Don't worrry, lots of people are incapable of reading those instructions, and those same people have trouble getting a job, because at any employer, there's all kinds of pre-employment forms to fill out, and people who can't comprehend the forms, do not get the jobs. Your above question is filled with lots of non-standard abbreviations, which is why I think English is not your first language.
If you now have the degree, you should look for companies whose work use what that degree is in ... this is something you should have figured out while you were still working towards the degree. It should be evident from the classes in the subject material, what kinds of enterprises logically would do that work. There are engineers who have to figure out how to design products, that are safe for the workers, and economical for the businesses. A product needs to work correctly in all kinds of environments ... outdoors where it rains a lot, temperature extremes. The food industry is a branch of chemilcal engineering. This is more demanding because of safety to the consumers. Pharmaceuticals are even more demanding, because to the testing needied to prove that they are safe.
If you are still working towards a degree, ask if your University has a co-op program. This is where students spend several months in classes, and several months in entry level positions at enterprises related to the classroom subjects. If the enterprise likes your skills, talent, dedication, etc. they may offer you a job upon graduation. The University will have an office to help you locate companies that support the co-op system. You get paid, low wages to be sure, at the co-op work. but that can help with tuition expenses.
Many people want a handsome income. Many other people want an interesting life, good job security, respectable work. Ideal is if you can get all of it. Most people end up spending first few years of their career in jobs that are none of the above. User:AlMac|(talk) 10:50, 2 January 2006 (UTC)
If you ask a hundred people this question, you will receive a hundred different answers, but allow me to offer my own perspective. First of all, forget about "utilizing all your potential" or "doing your education justice." What do you want to do? What is either going to (a) help you live the life you want to live or (b) give your life meaning and satisfaction? I realize these two questions are BIG questions, and a lot of us try our whole lives to get answers to them without success, but it's a good place to start. The truth is, whatever you find yourself doing, if you care enough about it (for whatever reason), you will put your education to use and you will realize your potential. I've been a high school teacher for ten years, and despite seeing friends of lesser ability make three times as much money as me in careers that are one-third as difficult, I know I've chosen the right path. Good luck in your search. Mitchell k dwyer 10:59, 2 January 2006 (UTC)

[edit] Artistic licence

The article Artistic licence has a link to what seems to be an almost completely unrelated Wikinews articles. I can't see a connection, but I don't know whether to remove the link in case it has some meaning to the article. smurrayinchester(User), (Talk) 10:33, 2 January 2006 (UTC)

  • Well, the Wikinews article does comment upon artistic licence. --jpgordon∇∆∇∆ 17:37, 2 January 2006 (UTC)

[edit] Which Walt Disney Film

The song:- "When you wish upon a Star" appears in what Disney film - please?

That would be Pinocchio Ferkelparade π 11:32, 2 January 2006 (UTC)

[edit] why the double standards in wikipedia?

why celebrities/people who are american jewish refered as american jewish while anyone else simply referred as american?

just a simple example:

Jennifer Aniston (no mention of her religion, simply american actress) Courteney Cox Arquette(no mention,simply american actress) Lisa Kudrow(referred as jewish american) Matt LeBlanc(no mention of religion, simply american actor) Matthew Perry(referred as american/canadian actor) David Schwimmer(referred as jewish american)

why the double standards, either mention all their religions or don't mention any, stop the bias.

Maybe there isn't any information available. As I am sure you are aware, anyway, there is more to being Jewish than religion. [[Sam Korn]] 13:31, 2 January 2006 (UTC)
Yeah, but also, some editors have made particular efforts to mark any Jewish subject of an article as Jewish. Oddly enough, sometimes it's obvious Jew-haters doing it; sometimes it's otherwise. It's pretty peculiar. --jpgordon∇∆∇∆ 17:33, 2 January 2006 (UTC)
I don't think the original statement is true, despite the evidence given. Sticking with the Friends theme, we also have Lauren Tom (introduced as Chinese American), Gabrielle Union (African American), and Sherilyn Fenn (Italian, Irish, French, and Hungarian). 18:08, 2 January 2006 (UTC)

Somewhat related: is anyone ever branded 'European American' or 'American American'? DirkvdM 19:07, 2 January 2006 (UTC)

I suspect the prevalence of the Jewish mention is a combination of several factors: some people are famously Jewish, some anti-Semites put in the mention because they think it matters, some fans put it in because they want everything known about their hero to be mentioned, some Jewish people want there to be lots of Jewish role models.
I haven't seen a lot of Euro-American mentions. If you ask a queer theorist, they'll probably say it's an ethnic variant of heteronormativity. If you ask Frank Weltner he'll probably say it's because us academic liberals don't want Euro-Americans to be proud of their heritage. If you ask me, it's because 1) in our post-PC times being Euro-American is boring, and 2) it's pretty obvious from a picture of Jennifer Aniston that she ain't Laotian. --George 20:00, 2 January 2006 (UTC)
Nice reply, although I didn't get all of it :) . To add, 'American American' is probably too painful a reminder to use. Actually, this has probably been suppressed so much that maybe not too many people would get what the term means. DirkvdM 12:13, 3 January 2006 (UTC)

[edit] Bermuda triangle

does the bermuda triangle really exist?

In the sense that there's a roughly triangular stretch of ocean carrying that name, yes; in the sense that there is some credibility to reports of disappearing ships, probably not. See our fine article on the subject. -- Ferkelparade π 14:31, 2 January 2006 (UTC)

[edit] Hindi film song identification request

Hi, here's a clip I made from a song that is in the movie Kismat (2004), but it doesn't seem to be on the soundtrack. Overall pretty awful movie, but a catchy song and I was hoping someone could identify it. Thank you - Taxman Talk 14:21, 2 January 2006 (UTC)

Hi, The song is not composed for this film.The song has two versions, the orginal older version was sang by Lata Mangeskar and the newer version can be found in the album named UMI-10,it is a remix version which has been used in the film.219.65.191.160 16:15, 2 January 2006 (UTC)D.R.

Great, thanks, that makes sense, but can you tell me the title of the song? Lata has done thousands and UMI-10 appears to be at least 5 albums. - Taxman Talk 03:51, 3 January 2006 (UTC)
I guess the title is Kaliyon ka Chaman. deeptrivia (talk) 05:32, 3 January 2006 (UTC)
Yes, that's the one. It's on the third volume of the UMI-10. That's awesome, thanks. - Taxman Talk 06:25, 3 January 2006 (UTC)

[edit] Budgets

What is a complimentary budget? Where does it fit in with an operating budget? I'd appreciate any insight on the subject, thanks.--142.167.165.57 14:49, 2 January 2006 (UTC)

[edit] Andy Griggs

In what city and in what year was Andy Griggs born?

Andy Griggs was born Aug. 13, 1973, in Moore, La. For more information on him, you can go to: [[3]] --Sister coley729 16:54, 2 January 2006 (UTC)

[edit] Chickens

Do chickens have feet?

    • I do not know that they are called feet, but they do have talons to walk around on. I suppose that most people would call them feet. --Sister coley729 16:50, 2 January 2006 (UTC)
  • Certainly they have feet. Chicken feet are edible, and may be purchased at many ethnic groceries in the United States (I don't know about the rest of the world). They are also sometimes used in voodoo ceremonies. User:Zoe|(talk) 01:54, 3 January 2006 (UTC)
  • Thanks for pointing out the edibility. Human feet are also edible for that matter. deeptrivia (talk) 05:27, 3 January 2006 (UTC)
They are, but you'd be arrested for doing so in most countries. - Mgm|(talk) 10:22, 3 January 2006 (UTC)
Yep! Stinks of speciesism ? deeptrivia (talk) 16:51, 3 January 2006 (UTC)

[edit] Which rock/metal song is this?

Recently I have been hearing a song, which I would describe to be of a metal/rock genre. The song in question is typically played loud at a nightclub and it is hard to distinguish the words. From listening, the chorus has the words 'woo hoo' or 'wer-hoo!' followed by some sort of piano rhythm. The rest of the lyrics seem to be a miss-mash of hardcore vocals as well as something along the lines of 'knock knock, who's there' etc. I don't expect the song to be main stream but I believe it is well know amongst the metal scene. I've been searching for the song for sometime on google but obviously there are many ways to spell 'woo hoo' and so on, I am not looking for Song 2 by Blur by the way! Thanks for any help anyone can give me with this, I really want to buy the song for a friend who is also in a similar quest for the song! --Aaron Horn 01:33, 3 January 2006 (UTC)

Damn, I remember looking for what this song was called a long time ago and giving up... I'll tell you if anything comes up. — flamingspinach | (talk) 19:51, 2 January 2006 (UTC)
Woo hoo or rather woo woo, I've found the answer. The lyrics are actually 'woo woo' and very quickly I was able to find this song is Diamonds and Guns by Transplant! --Aaron Horn 01:33, 3 January 2006 (UTC)
This song is also used in Garnier Fructis commercials Night Gyr 08:25, 5 January 2006 (UTC)

Not to appear rude or as a name-nazi, but the band is The Transplants. Just thought I'd throw that in there.

[edit] 4 wheelers

What are the laws for 4 wheelers in Derry, NH?

Usually, when I see a placename in such a form, it refers to a US state, but I can't place NH. To me that means North Holland. And Derry is in Ireland as far as I know. Could you be more specific? And by 4 wheeler you probably don't mean anything on 4 wheels. Maybe 4 wheel drive? DirkvdM 19:10, 2 January 2006 (UTC)

New Hampshire, the glorious Granite State. Silly foreigners. :-) But I'm too lazy to Lexis the question. --George 19:17, 2 January 2006 (UTC)
As in "4 wheeler" I'm guessing you mean an ATV and not a Jeep or similar short wheel base off road vehicle. Well, I'll tell ya right now that you probably will not find much public land to wheel on. The northeast U.S. is very wheeler non-friendly. The only way to find land for me to go on with my Jeep is to be a member of a club. If I were you though, I'd try asking around at The Northeast Online Wheelers forums. There are many people there from NH that should be able to help you. Also, if you don't mind the drive over to VT (that's Vermont for all the non-Americans here :-) ), there was an article in Seven Days about a group of 4 wheelers who got permission to wheel in the Green Mountain National Forest. Good luck and please remember to Tread Lightly. Dismas|(talk) 21:55, 2 January 2006 (UTC)

[edit] Dates

Crap, I just bought a bunch of dates and I don't know what to do with them. I'm looking for a healthy and tasty recipe. Cost is not an issue. Gracias!

Ehm, just eat them! :) Tasty enough, and I believe dates are rather healthy too. And you've already made the expense, so that won't be an issue anymore, as requested. :) Alternatively, have a look at Date Palm#Food uses of Dates and Date and walnut loaf. But why did you buy them in the first place? DirkvdM 19:15, 2 January 2006 (UTC)
A search at Epicurious found 103 date recipes; a similar search at AllRecipes found 147 recipes. I've always found both sites to be quite nice, though Epicurious generally has rather fancier recipes. --George 01:22, 3 January 2006 (UTC)
Also, it seems that the Wikibooks Cookbook has some date recipes. Apart from the Date category, I also found Kashmiri Pulao and Date nut bar. I haven't tested them myself, but some propaganda for another Wikimedia project is never wrong, is it? 217.208.26.177 20:19, 2 January 2006 (UTC)

The best thing to do with dates is to make a date shake. Be sure that, the next time you visit Indio, California, that you have the date shakes at Shield's Date Gardens and Farm. User:Zoe|(talk) 01:58, 3 January 2006 (UTC)

Also, be sure you are fully stocked with toilet paper before eating all those dates. StuRat 06:40, 7 January 2006 (UTC)

[edit] College Football Bowl Games

Why were no college bowl games played on January 1 this year? I have been told that it is illegal for college football games to be played on the same day as NFL games. Is this correct?

Nothing illegal about it. It all has to do with television coverage. User:Zoe|(talk) 01:59, 3 January 2006 (UTC)
There is a law (15 USC 1293) that limits the ability of the NFL to televize games played on Fridays and Saturdays. This was intented to protect high school and college football from NFL competition. -- Mwalcoff 04:11, 3 January 2006 (UTC)
NFL games are televised on Saturdays in December and January. Is that because high school season is over? User:Zoe|(talk) 17:37, 3 January 2006 (UTC)
And the college regular season. -- Mwalcoff 23:56, 3 January 2006 (UTC)

[edit] Distance from Bergen-op-Zoom to Charleroi Airport

Can anyone tell me this please?

Margaret

For Charleroi in Belgium it's about 121 km, for Charleroi in the US it's about 6275 km. These are very rough figures. CambridgeBayWeather (Talk) 23:43, 2 January 2006 (UTC)

[edit] January 3

[edit] why has lou dobbs been out

i don`t know if you have noticed but if you watch CNN you would now that lou dobbs the host of lou dobbs tonight has been out lately if possible could you tell me why sorry if this is one for the humanties section.

Does he ever get a vacation? I have noticed that the kind of editorial content he does, the other folks are doing similar commentary, so I am sure he has not been forceably retired. Have you read the Wiki article on Lou Dobbs?
* CNN has a web site on what is coming up on Lou Dobbs tonite.
* The Lou Dobbs financial advice newsletter got cancelled because his advice turned out to not have a good track record.
User:AlMac|(talk) 03:30, 3 January 2006 (UTC)

[edit] Jack and the beanstalk

Is there anyone who can direct me to a website where there is a complete French version of the story of Jack and the Beanstalk? Thank you.

  • I know it's not what you asked for, but your local library may be of help in obtaining this. - Mgm|(talk) 10:24, 3 January 2006 (UTC)
.. .  .  .. .  .  
..  .  . .. .   . 
   .  .     .

Searched google for "Jacques haricot magique" and look at that : jackharicot. --Harvestman 19:56, 4 January 2006 (UTC)

[edit] Jim Wales

Jimbo Wales is my hero! hahaha, he's so cool! is there any page here at wikipedia that talks about him besides his user page?.--Cosmic girl 00:53, 3 January 2006 (UTC)

Jimmy Wales Dismas|(talk) 01:21, 3 January 2006 (UTC)

[edit] Human article has been vandalized.

Why does in the clasification and all that in the article about humans say penis and stuff on the box below the picture? has it been vandalized? I'd fix it but I don't know how.--Cosmic girl 01:01, 3 January 2006 (UTC)

Thanks so much for telling us; I've corrected it. In the future, you can revert yourself it to the last good version: Wikipedia:Revert --George 01:21, 3 January 2006 (UTC)

[edit] Black forest ham

Why is black forest ham called "black forest ham"? --HappyCamper 05:40, 3 January 2006 (UTC)

Because it originated in a region in south-western Germany known as the Black Forest. It's a smoked variety of ham; the original German word for it is Schwarzwaldschinken. Like Emmental cheese—although what is sold in the U.S. under that label is a pale shadow of true Emmentaler from the Emmental in Switzerland (and typically doesn't even come from the Emmental; "Emmentaler" is not a protected appellation, only "Emmentaler Switzerland" is a registered trademark). Lupo 08:46, 3 January 2006 (UTC)
Now that that is answered, room for some off-topicity. These names can have amusing effects, like Limburger often being used for Limburger cheese, know locally as 'stink cheese' (for a rather obvious reason). So Limburgers are known to stink. And I am a Limburger, so therefore I stink?  :) And what if Kennedy would have had his Berlin speech in Hamburg? He would then have had to say "I am a Hamburger". :) DirkvdM 12:25, 3 January 2006 (UTC)
And why would that be more humourous than "Ich bin ein Berliner"?? :-) Lupo 16:48, 3 January 2006 (UTC)
Ha, didn't know about that one! At first I thought this would only be amusing to Germans (to whom he said it). But this section suggests that even that is not necessarily the case. Nice one! DirkvdM 10:29, 4 January 2006 (UTC)

[edit] weight

As a perfect athlet(boxer), what should be my weight for the height 5 ft 6"?

Hmm...I would be extremely surprised if someone quoted an exact number for you here. There really isn't a "perfect" weight for this sort of stuff. There are lots of other things that go into being a great athlete other than being physically fit. Are you asking instead, for a list of statistics somewhere which describes the physical stature of boxers in your height categorization, and which also comes with a proper statistical interpretation? --HappyCamper 06:05, 3 January 2006 (UTC)

Which are the other things than physical fitness for perfect boxer and also i would like to know the range of weight to my mentioned height?

  • According to these tables on Body Mass indices your ideal weight would lie between 124 and 155 pounds (assuming you are male). Since you're a boxer, I would recommend going with the higher end of this estimate to allow some weight for your muscles. I wouldn't worry about your weight too much unless your weight goes above 186 pounds which is considered obese. The main thing is that you eat enough and get yourself enough calories so you have enough energy for boxing. Trying to lose weight often causes adverse effects. Please see Body mass index for more information on how I calculated this. - Mgm|(talk) 10:36, 3 January 2006 (UTC)

[edit] Faeries

Has Brian Froud, author of 'Fearies' seen a fearie? And also in the movie Fairy Tale, are all of the events true? Like did that journalist really see the Joseph? And did the parents really see a fairy?

See the article Cottingley Fairies for the circumstances behind the Fairy Tale movie. Bear in mind that the movie did imply that the fairies were real, although they have been comprehensively proven to have been cut out of a picture book owned by one of the girls. Brian Froud is an illustrator, there is no fairy-squashing Lady Cottington, she is fictional as are the faeries in Froud's delightful books. --Canley 08:45, 3 January 2006 (UTC)

[edit] Simbang Gabi

What is the Spanish name for the Filipinos' Simbang Gabi, the nine dawn masses preceding Christmas Day? I read in the article here that they're called Misas de Aguinaldo or "Gift Masses", but what I know (which I verified in some books I read) is that the Simbang Gabi is referred to as the Misa de Gallo or "Rooster's Mass". Could somebody clear this up? Thanks. [And please, no inaccurate Google references or inter-Wiki references!] Igor the Lion(Roar!) 08:10, 3 January 2006 (UTC)

Well, I can't vouch for the accuracy of this Google reference, but this link confirms what you suggest above. If this isn't enough for you, what did you want? Another book reference or a fluent (preferably Filipino) Spanish speaker? You could ask User:Evertype (who added that article) on his talk page about his source for the Spanish phrase (looks like he speaks Spanish too so he should be able to help you). --Canley 10:59, 3 January 2006 (UTC)
Ok, thanks. Igor the Lion(Roar!) 16:57, 3 January 2006 (UTC)

[edit] Stanley Kubrick exhibition in Victoria, Australia.

At the moment, there is a Kubrick exhibition showing somewhere in Victoria. Does anyone know the name of the exhibition, or the place where it's being held, or anything else I could use to track down its website?

It's at ACMI (Australian Centre for the Moving Image, www.acmi.net.au) at Federation Square in Melbourne, and it's called "Stanley Kubrick: Inside the mind of a visionary filmmaker". Enjoy. JackofOz 11:59, 3 January 2006 (UTC)

Thanks a lot. :)

[edit] name some of the outrageous services that ultraluxury automotive manufacturers offer to their customers?

like for example, maybach offers their customers a number of an assistant whome they can call for basically everything they weant like tickets to the opera or directions the the conference or something like that. are there oters who offer something similar or anything?

A chauffeur drives someone around...maybe that's it? But generally speaking, I don't think it is the automotive industry that would provide these services. It would be the services and hospitality industry, the tourism industry, and the the like. --HappyCamper 12:39, 3 January 2006 (UTC)
I think the services are those that the questioner listed - in the instance of the Maybach, I'd call the service a personal assistant. Presumably there's no limit on the outrageousness of the service offered in the premium market. Graduations of service like this are offered by some car companies, by insurance companies, roadside assistance companies, and some electronic information companies, but are most typically restricted to providing information assistance, or roadside repair and recovery. --Tagishsimon (talk)
I've forgotten where I read it but a couple weeks ago I read about a German car company that has some special services. One of them was that they would make the vehicle at their factory in Germany and then when you came to pick it up you could take it for a spin on the autobahn before having it shipped off to your home country. This way you could drive your new sports car at higher speeds than may be legal in your home country. I don't remember which company it was though. Dismas|(talk) 19:39, 3 January 2006 (UTC)
most german car ompanies offer that. it is called european delivery program.

[edit] What is "bunkering"?

See wikt:bunkering. Hmm....it's not in Wikitionary. Well. I guess we'll have to wait and see. --HappyCamper 12:54, 3 January 2006 (UTC)
AFAIK, the storage of fuel and lubricants, generally at ports and for the maritime industry. Google may help --Tagishsimon (talk)
Farmers often store their silage in a concrete encloser that is called a bunker. I would suppose that the act of putting the silage into the bunker could be referred to as "bunkering" though I've never heard the term used. Dismas|(talk) 19:43, 3 January 2006 (UTC)
In paintball, bunkering is when you eliminate an opponent who is stuck behind an obstacle (a "bunker"). See this article for details. thejabberwock 02:02, 4 January 2006 (UTC)
There's a Dutch word, 'bunkeren', which my dictionary translates as 'stuff oneself' (ie with food). But there's another Dutch meaning, namely to stock up on something of which one thinks there might be a shortage in the near future, such as when there is a war threat. But if enough people do it, it might become a self-fulfilling prophecy. Which was a major reason for the long lines in Russia - as soon as something became available in a shop, people would buy it 'just in case'. Thus causing eternal shortages and lines whenever something becomes available again - etc. I believe this has long been a Russian 'tradition', from before the USSR. Is this true? And does it still happen? DirkvdM 10:39, 4 January 2006 (UTC)

[edit] Brian Froud

How can I contact the author 'Brian Froud', preferably by email but address is fine.

Via his publisher - Pavillion Books, an imprint of Chrysalis Books --Tagishsimon (talk)

[edit] Search for Indian actor 'SRK'

hi, I have just seen the article on indian super star movie actor Shahrukh Khan its was great but there was no mention about where and how to contact him. Could it be possible to ge his contact address like an email address? tnx

Here's his blog or you could try a fan site like this. CambridgeBayWeather (Talk) 14:21, 3 January 2006 (UTC)

[edit] Area codes

Where would someone have the area code +1233? It looks like an American number, but I don't think it is Sceptre (Talk) 13:43, 3 January 2006 (UTC)

Try here or here. CambridgeBayWeather (Talk) 14:13, 3 January 2006 (UTC)
Well, as list of country calling codes says, anything starting with +1 sounds like an international reference to the North American Numbering Plan, but according to this site 233 is not currently an area code in the U.S. or Canada. So perhaps there was an error in communicating the number. Sharkford 21:13, 3 January 2006 (UTC)
The reports under this page on the North American Numbering Plan Administration web site confirm that there is no area code 233, and no current plan to introduce one either. So +1233 is defintely wrong. If this was found in some material written in English, my guess is that this is supposed to be the area code for Ashford, Kent, and its surrounding area in southeast England. Locally that would be written 01233; in international dialing it would be +44 1233; and you can imagine someone who didn't understand that the country code (44) was required might get it wrong when converting the one to the other.
Say, that's interesting -- Wikipedia's article for Ashford says the area code is 01622, which is actually for the nearby town of Maidstone according to British Telecom's web site and this other one I checked. I'll fix it now. -- 66.96.28.244 21:47, 3 January 2006 (UTC)
Oh, after writing that, I wondered if 233 might simply be a mistake for 223. But the NANPA web site says there is no 223 in North America either. Another possibility is that 1233 is not an area code (or country code and area code) at all, but a dialing code within some system. However, maybe the context makes that impossible. -- 66.96.28.244 21:53, 3 January 2006 (UTC)

[edit] Medical diagnosis

posted in header by mistake -- Ec5618 15:05, 3 January 2006 (UTC) good morning.i was wondering if there is anyone who could share thoughts about this..that is my preliminary diagnosis.i'm frightened.i'm looking for answers to a concrete,definable answer to my myriad of symptoms:dizziness intermittently,ataxia,freezing cold then very warm.perepheral vasccular changes.i'm walking with a cane.seeing a physical therapist 3 times a week for strengthening,as iam weak for the last 2 months.please help if you can.happy new year to all,margi

If you are using the word ataxia the way doctors use it, and it is objectively demonstrable (rather than something you just "feel"), a neurologist should be able to make a definitive diagnosis for you. The other symptoms may be too vague and subjective to be of much diagnostic use. Good luck. alteripse 01:05, 4 January 2006 (UTC)
I agree with Alteripse advice that you should seek a professional opinion, but it my own opinion it sounds somewhat like multiple sclerosis. TomStar81 00:31, 7 January 2006 (UTC)

[edit] VLC media player

Is there some way to make VLC media player show all my videos at 2x zoom, instead of me doing it manually every time?

You'd probably be best asking in one of the Videolan support forums listed on their support page. --Robert Merkel 13:01, 4 January 2006 (UTC)

[edit] Sniper suit

(heading added by Akamad 22:10, 3 January 2006 (UTC))

Is there really a new kind of suit which prevents snipers to be detected through thermal heat detection?

Er, why do you ask? I hope you're not a sniper trying to avoid detection! An insulated suit which reduces one's thermal signature would certainly exist and is not really new. Depends on how powerful the thermal detection is, and the coverage of the suit. --Canley 02:29, 4 January 2006 (UTC)

There is stuff that is still somewhat secret, such as the British Navy applying stealth technology, originally developed for the US Airforce and submarines, to surface warships. I have no idea how they are going to avoid collisions with each other when this becomes a widespread state-of-art. User:AlMac|(talk) 10:48, 4 January 2006 (UTC)

[edit] ...AND THE EARTH DID NOT DEVOUR HIM (novel)

In "Hand In His Pocket," why do u think the boy slips his hand in his pocket when he sees a stranger? thank you

Is this a homework assignment? --Optichan 17:38, 3 January 2006 (UTC)
Because he has ugly hands. DuctapeDaredevil 20:07, 3 January 2006 (UTC)
For a quick game of pocket pool ? StuRat 21:35, 3 January 2006 (UTC)

[edit] Bomber beer size

What is the source of the "bomber" size of beer?

[edit] What is the world's most commonly consumed fruit?

What is the world's most consumed fruit? This question was asked at my local pub quiz and I thought the answer was banana (which I understood to be the item most sold in UK supermarkets), but I was told that the correct answer was in fact the tomato. A friend of mine was then asked the same question in a quiz later that week, and answered tomato thinking this was correct, but was told that the correct answer was the grape! In an attempt to end the confusion over this question, I looked to the humble internet, only to find a huge disparity over claims to the world's most consumed fruit. There seems to be an almost even split between sites claiming that the mango and banana are the most consumed fruit, but there are various other claims around. Does anyone have a definitive answer to this question, or perhaps you happen to have some statistics on the matter? Any help would be most appreciated, thank you!

It's very difficult to definitively quantify such a question. I imagine most estimates would be based on import/export or agriculture figures, which can vary by country and be inaccurately recorded or compiled. Also, someone in a country may consider their country's most popular fruit to be the world's most popular fruit, which may not be the case. Another complication is that the tomato, which strictly speaking is a fruit, is often considered a vegetable and some estimates may hence disregard it. Some Google searching produced wildly varying results as you'd expect: [4] (banana); [5] (tomato, banana, apple, orange, watermelon) - this site does have statistics but no source; [6] (apple, oranges, banana); [7] (mangoes). Never heard of the grape being that popular - they can be quite difficult to grow as well. Maybe that source was using number of grapes rather than weight of fruit consumed! --Canley 01:01, 4 January 2006 (UTC)
There's also no indication of whether the fruit is consumed whole or in a product. If you count ketchup, marinara sauce, salsa, and other tomato products, that greatly changes the number of tomatoes consumed. 66.47.17.237 16:41, 4 January 2006 (UTC)TheSPY
Those well known botanists, the US Supreme Court, have established that a tomato is not a fruit, but a vegetable, in the case of Nix v. Hedden. But I'm guessing you aren't in their juristiction. Notinasnaid 16:28, 5 January 2006 (UTC)

[edit] Computer History Files

While online, you can view the History files in which tell you exactly what you have done on the Computer. You can delete these files, but is there any way of finding out, after they have been deleted? I am the defendant, not the checker. Thank you!!--Young XenoNeon (converse) 17:45, 3 January 2006 (UTC)

When a file is deleted, it remains on the disk, but the area it formerly resided in is marked as usable. It can be recovered as long as it is not overwritten by other data. That's the key. There is software that is capable of overwriting a file many times with a bunch of random crap to ensure the data cannot be recovered. --Optichan 18:50, 3 January 2006 (UTC)
Even then if you have enough money the data can be recoved. Sometimes even if the disk has been in a fire. There is also inexpensive software available that can recover the data even if it has been overwritten several times. I have recovered files that were deleted and then reformatted and written over several times. CambridgeBayWeather (Talk) 19:45, 3 January 2006 (UTC)
Wow! Anyone knows how that works (recovery of overwritten data) ? deeptrivia (talk) 20:03, 3 January 2006 (UTC)
Well Zero Assumption Recovery and Active Undelete are both pretty good. I've used the second but not the first. I have a friend that's tried both and says that ZAR is better. However, the best I ever tried was, I think, by PowerQuest but is no longer available. You had to have two hard drive's and the second had to be blank and larger than the first. It ran from a floppy and spent several hours scanning the hard drive. You were then presented with a huge list of possible files and directories to recover. If you run it on a second hand drive it's very interesting what you can find. The hardest place to recover files from is a USB thumb drive and the cards that are used in digital cameras, etc. Almost anything deleted from one of those is gone forever. CambridgeBayWeather (Talk) 01:14, 4 January 2006 (UTC)
CBW, I always wondered why setting all of the the relevant memory locations to say zero in one pass wouldn't be a secure erase. --hydnjo talk 02:23, 4 January 2006 (UTC)
Read our article on data recovery and some of the links from it. --Robert Merkel 02:48, 4 January 2006 (UTC)
"when a 1 bit is written over a zero bit, the "actual effect is closer to obtaining a .95 when a zero is overwritten with a one, and a 1.05 when a one is overwritten with a one". Given that, given a read head 20 times as sensitive as the one in the drive, and given the pattern of overwrite bits one could recover the under-data."
This is super interesting stuff!!! deeptrivia (talk) 03:33, 4 January 2006 (UTC)
Well, I'll no longer need to wonder. Thanks, --hydnjo talk 16:07, 4 January 2006 (UTC)
The only way to delete a file unequivocably is to have spent a lot of time on it and have it due the next day. At this point, anything negative you do to it will be completely unreversable, guaranteed. --Fastfission 21:51, 4 January 2006 (UTC)

[edit] GDP

What percertage of GDP do the Fortune 500 companies contribute verse privately owned businesses in the US? Thank you for your help!

The Fortune 500 are all privately, as in, not state owned, but if you mean not publicly traded, you're asking for something that's inherently hard to determine, because privately held businesses do not publish the figures that publicly traded ones are required to. There are untold tens or hundreds of thousands of private businesses, so it'd be hard to determine. You might want to try taking some statistics from the IRS or another agency and subtracting out public totals to find what's left. Night Gyr 01:44, 5 January 2006 (UTC)

[edit] Hazelnuts

Are Hazelnuts considered true nuts?

See the second paragraph of the Hazelnut article. Dismas|(talk) 19:33, 3 January 2006 (UTC)
  • Not according to Stephen Fry and the research team at QI. - 82.172.14.108 21:42, 3 January 2006 (UTC)
Which also taught me that the peanut isn't a nut either. Which were the other ones again? This was one of those quicmk sumups (though not as long as the the list of Scottish inventions - has anyone recorded that? I'd like to read through it again). DirkvdM 10:52, 4 January 2006 (UTC)
I think cashews are also "nuts that aren't actually nuts". Yeltensic42.618 ambition makes you look pretty ugly 01:06, 6 January 2006 (UTC)

[edit] University of Miami Trivia

Who was the U of Miami Quarterback in 1993?

--Heisman Trophy Winner Gino Torretta

[edit] Emperor Norton

So...Is it true that Emperor Norton actually did contact and/or give advice to legit rulers of the time? I'm especially intrested in King Kamehameha of Hawai'i. I found a few paragraphs in 'Classic Tales of California History', by Alton Pryor (can be found by putting 'Emperor Norton' into Google Book Search, pg 17), but I'm not sure if this is true. DuctapeDaredevil 20:04, 3 January 2006 (UTC)

Yes. From the Asian Wall Street Journal of December 13, 2002:
Norton sent frequent cables to fellow rulers offering surprisingly well-informed advice. King Kamehameha of Hawaii (then the Sandwich Islands) was so taken with the Emperor's insight and understanding that towards the end of his life Kamehameha refused to recognize the U.S. State Department, saying he would deal only with representatives of the Norton Empire. [8]
--Neutralitytalk 07:58, 5 January 2006 (UTC)

[edit] Unemployment

What is someone supposed to do if no place will hire them? Not even Mcdonalds or Wal-mart?

I'd try taking free classes until I had skills someone would want. You could also try going to the unemployment office, signing up for food stamps, or becoming a bum on a street corner. DuctapeDaredevil 20:46, 3 January 2006 (UTC)
You can also do volunteer work or join the military. Both will add to your resume and prove that you can work in a team. Also, try to identify what is making you unemployable. It could be your look, for example in you have hundreds of face peircings, it could be your way of talking, if they can barely understand you, or it might be how you are dressed, etc. StuRat 21:07, 3 January 2006 (UTC)
This is the best suggestion, because turning the tables, it is very hard for companies to find good employees that can really do a good job. Most people that complain about not having good jobs then proceed to exhibit many behaviors that make them terrible employees. Most things that would keep you from being employed are fixable, so fix them and find a way to demonstrate that you have the work ethic and skills the employer is looking for. If you can demonstrate to an employer that you can make more money for them than you cost in pay, benefits, etc, then they will usually hire you, and if not, someone else will. The key is if you really can demonstrate it so find some way to do that, even if it is volunteer work (as mentioned above) while you sqeak by wherever you're living and eating even if it is a homeless shelter. So if you're persistent enough you'll be fine. If it's a criminal record that is the problem, that may be a little tougher, but that's the breaks, and it's still possible. There are generally government programs for helping people get jobs, and some charity options, so go to a local library and do some research on those until you find someone that can help you. If people reallize you are serious about helping yourself, they will go out of their way to help you. - Taxman Talk 15:38, 4 January 2006 (UTC)
  • It's unfair, but some people tend to be unemployed, because they are still studying and because the company can hire a younger person, which costs them less money. I know... - Mgm|(talk) 21:45, 3 January 2006 (UTC)
Well, you could live off social security. It exists (if it does in your contry, that is) for just that reason. You could then do volunteer work, such as working on Wikipedia (if you have knowledge that is still lacking). Probably not what you were asking for, but, depending on your country's social security and your material needs, a viable option. And nothing to be ashamed of, as long as you make yourself useful. But maybe this is too much of a Dutch perspective. DirkvdM 10:56, 4 January 2006 (UTC)

[edit] who is the one person that contributed something to America?

i need to know someone who was born in america and helped america in some ways.it could be a musician or a artist or a writer,but whoever the person is,he/she must have contributed something (in a good way )that helped America to be a better country.

  • Do your own homework. android79 20:54, 3 January 2006 (UTC)
  • There's scores of famous Americans who made some positive contribution and there's a good chance you know at least one of them. Try Category:American musicians, Category:American actors, Category:American inventors, etc for inspiration. - Mgm|(talk) 21:49, 3 January 2006 (UTC)
  • How about your mother or father? Most of us have at least one parent who was more of an asset than a liability to society, even if only by contributing taxes and children. alteripse 03:03, 4 January 2006 (UTC)
  • "Better country" doesn't sound WP:NPOV. So I can't help you. --Optichan 15:18, 4 January 2006 (UTC)
    • This is why we're not allowed to make Wikipedia better. Proto t c 16:58, 4 January 2006 (UTC)
    • Better than it was before. -Del

[edit] Holidays in the United States

Is it true that, in the United States, when a holiday, such as New Years day falls on a weekend, workers get another day off work? That is, so that they don't miss any holiday time because a weekend and a holiday coincide? Oskar 21:29, 3 January 2006 (UTC)

Yes, typically a Monday is given off when a holiday falls on a Sunday and a Friday is given off when a holiday falls on Saturday. StuRat 21:37, 3 January 2006 (UTC)
For example, this year January 2 was a legal holiday because January 1, New Year's Day, was a Sunday. --Maxamegalon2000 05:27, 4 January 2006 (UTC)
Its the same in Australia too--Ali K 05:36, 4 January 2006 (UTC)
It depends to a degree. On Federal Holidays, which are nationally recongnized holidays, the answer is yes, people typically get another day off of work. In the case of lesser known holidays or relegious holidays, that may not nessicarily be the case; for instance, Easter always falls on a Sunday, but most workers do not get monday off, and some public and private schools will not take extra days off if holidays such as Presidents Day and Martin Luther King Day fall over the weekend. TomStar81
To clarify on the Australia thing - it is generally the Monday which is the holiday, whether the public holiday is a Saturday or a Sunday. If Christmas day is the Saturday and Boxing Day the Sunday, both Monday 27th and Tuesday 28th are given as days off. -- Chuq 12:37, 7 January 2006 (UTC)

[edit] music uploading in canada

i am canadian, and i am a heavy user of music sharing. i upload a large amount (mostly underground downloadable music) on p2p networks, if i were to share copyrighted music from american and canadian artists would there be a chance of me getting caught? because i've read on several news websites that it is legal to download material in canada. so should i cut down on the uploading? or is there no danger?

I'm not entirely sure of this, but I think that it is illegal in Canada. As for you possibly getting caught, I would say it's possible but very very unlikely (partly depending on how much you upload). Flea110 23:09, 3 January 2006 (UTC)

can you only be caught if you are seen directly in the p2p program? or can they catch you from spying on your bandwidth usage, then somehow knowing that you are transfering copyrighted music?

Um, Wikipedia doesn't offer legal advice...I believe there was a supreme court case in Canada that settled this once and for all, but I forgot what the case was called. --HappyCamper 04:58, 5 January 2006 (UTC)

[edit] January 4

[edit] Business Phone numbers

How can i find out what business in Omaha Nebraska has 402-938-1100 for a phone number, other than calling it?

  • According to several White Page sites, it's Teleport Communications Group. Sputnikcccp 01:52, 4 January 2006 (UTC)
    • According to reversephonedirectory.com, that's the number's carrier. Whoever's on the other end of the line, I can't find. Probably a telemarketer. android79 01:59, 4 January 2006 (UTC)

It can't be a telemarketer, because my cell phone bill said i call it.

  • Oh, you're calling them? Then I'd guess it's a cell phone. Just a guess, though. Only one way to find out for sure... android79 02:02, 4 January 2006 (UTC)
As a general tip for future reference, Google is often a useful way to find which business has a known phone number. It doesn't help this time, though: there are no hits on a search for 402-938-1100. --Anonymous, 06:56 UTC, January 4
Key phone # into Google, or another search engine, just the #s, no other text, and you will find where that # has shown up various places on the Internet (like here), in some phone directory some place, and while this might include who has the # now, it also include who had # some time in the past, because you know when a # goes out of service, it gets reassigned to future people needing #s.
Also, it is only a matter of time before the viruses get into cell phones to make phone calls for the purpose of you being billed for money to go to the virus writers, like those 1-900 scams. User:AlMac|(talk) 10:53, 4 January 2006 (UTC)

[edit] Dummies books, Idiots guides, K.I.S.S. books

For a lay person who knows virtually nothing about a given topic, are these series generally considered to be better than other introductory books? I see ever-increasing topics covered in all three series, and the ones I've read seem pretty good at explaining the basics and are long enough to satisfy one's curiosity. Of course, nothing beats Wikipedia

  • It depends on the subject matter, I would guess, but from personal experience, the "...For Dummies" series isn't terrible. The one on golf was actually very good, IMO, as was the one on HTML. They really are designed for someone who knows absolutely nothing or nearly nothing about the subject; I picked up the one on American football and there was nearly nothing new to learn from it. If you're looking for a free alternative to these sorts of books, you might try Wikibooks... ;-) android79 01:54, 4 January 2006 (UTC)
  • These books are terrific, not because they go back to the very beginning and assume you know nothing, but because they are written simply and clearly, with communication being their first priority, not maintaining the elitism that language can automatically provide for an "in" group. If textbooks were all written like this, more people would actually learn something in school. I can't vouch for the K*I*S*S books, but I will say the the Dummies series and the Complte Idiots series are quite terrific. Mitchell k dwyer 02:34, 4 January 2006 (UTC)
  • I've always found the For Dummies books very good, mostly I've seen ones on computing but others on non-tecchy subjects have been good too. On computing again, SAMS guides seem very good. However, I'd strongly recommend that before buying any individual book checking the feedback at Amazon and/or visiting some websites on the subject and seeing if they review the book. --bodnotbod 00:17, 12 January 2006 (UTC)

[edit] Closing a business

Where do I look to find out how to close a business without getting sued by the employees? Any help would be greatful.

Tami

What country is your business in? That may help people give you an idea of where you should be looking. Although, no matter what country, consulting a lawyer would probably be everyone's first suggestion. Dismas|(talk) 06:51, 4 January 2006 (UTC)
Sued? Just fire them and close down. Surely, they cannot expect employment in perpetuity. --Nelson Ricardo 07:30, 4 January 2006 (UTC)
  • They can expect to get paid for as long as the contract says they are employed. If you were to fire them, they could sue you for breech of contract no matter what. However, offering a few months extra pay may convince some to leave of their own free will. Still, the lawyer suggestion is the best, though. Asking complete strangers for legal advice is not really a good idea. - 131.211.210.11 09:34, 4 January 2006 (UTC)

You need to have a lawyer, or legal expert check the law in your geography. Many states in the USA, for example, require that you give 3 months notice, or some similar time period, before closing your doors, because it is going to have a major impact on the taxes collected, and money to budget to pay unemployment compensation to your former employees. User:AlMac|(talk) 10:58, 4 January 2006 (UTC)

Why would you worry about getting sued? If they think the business is worth continuing enough to sue you for it then sell it to them at a fair price and walk away. Still get a good lawyer to make sure all the odds and ends are handled right. - Taxman Talk 15:26, 4 January 2006 (UTC)

[edit] NFL History

The website http://www.packers.com/team/coaches/lambeau_earl/ states in 1938 the Green Bay Packers played one game that wasn't an official NFL game. Who would they have played, and could this happen today?

If I'm reading correctly, the site actually states that one game in 1938 was played at a neutral site. Except for the Super Bowl and the preseason Pro Football Hall of Fame Game, games are never scheduled for neutral sites anymore, although I think some get moved occassionally to escape various natural disasters. As for playing games that are not official NFL games, this would never ever happen today, probably for various contract reasons. --Maxamegalon2000 06:19, 4 January 2006 (UTC)
If I had to venture a guess, I'd say they probably played the Chicago Bears. The cities are close enough to each other that they could easily have met for a scimage match. Dismas|(talk) 06:49, 4 January 2006 (UTC)
The neutral-site game was a Sept. 29, 1938 contest against the Chicago Cardinals in Buffalo. Oddly, the teams had met four days earlier in Milwaukee. It's no surprise they moved a Cardinals game, since the Cards got poor attendance in Chicago. Perhaps they scheduled the game that way so the teams could save money by traveling together. -- Mwalcoff 01:42, 5 January 2006 (UTC)

[edit] exploration

IS there any land unexlored or any region where humans are still living in ancient old age condition with isolated comunity?

Antarctica is mostly unmapped, and various extensive cave systems are yet to be fully explored. There are a few isolated communities of native americans living in the Amazon rainforest in their traditional manner, as well as traditionalist Bedouins and the Amish (if you consider their way of life "ancient old age"), among others. GeeJo (t) (c) • 09:23, 4 January 2006 (UTC)
The Pirahã people of the Amazon are pretty isolated, and also really trippy. The Pirahã language is one of the strangest in the world. I would love to go live with the Pirahã for a few months. —Keenan Pepper 09:30, 4 January 2006 (UTC)
  • No doubt there's still tribes living traditionally around Borneo, Cambodia and other Asian countries. Also, there's several such tribes in Africa. - 131.211.210.11 09:35, 4 January 2006 (UTC)
I suppose you mean unexplored by Westerners (if there are people there then the region is by definition explored :) ). Depends on how isolated you mean. In Borneo the Dayaks are well accustomed to western stuff, although they don't always adopt it (good on 'm). However, the Penan are traditionally hunters/gatherers and although they are receiving incentives to settle down, some will still be living traditionally (don't know how many, though). But they all know about Western culture and few still dress in bark loincloths. As for peoples who have never contacted Western culture, your only chances will probably be in Amazonia. But then, how would we know about them? :) DirkvdM 11:08, 4 January 2006 (UTC)
You could say that the bottom of the oceans are yet to be explored. CambridgeBayWeather (Talk)

Another candidate for most isolated and primitive people is the Tasaday; our article is excellent. Scratch the Amish from your list: their culture is a mixture of 17th to 20th century customs and tools but doesnt belong in a discussion with primitive peoples of the undeveloped regions. alteripse 13:07, 4 January 2006 (UTC)

I recall articles after the tsunami about a isolated peoples, I think it was some island(s?) in the Andaman and Nicobar Islands. The Indian government went to special lengths not to contact them too much in an effort to preserve their aboriginal culture. - Taxman Talk 15:23, 4 January 2006 (UTC)

On this note, I can't remember what it's called, but I think it was somewhere in Africa, a language only spoken by one person. There are also some Aboriginal Australian languages spoken by less than 10 people. Yeltensic42.618 ambition makes you look pretty ugly 01:12, 6 January 2006 (UTC)

  • There's an isolated community referred to in Guns, Germs and Steel but I forget which. Whether it remains isolated is another matter. I think it may have been Papua New Guinea. In the book it was used to illustrate a society that had not advanced very much since antiquity. Somewhere on the web (at an American public broadcasting site of some description?) there is a transcript of a documentary series based on the book which is where I get my hazily remembered info from, so if you feel suitably motivated you could seek it out. --bodnotbod 00:21, 12 January 2006 (UTC)

[edit] health

I am single 25 yr 66 kg (male).What should be my frequency of masterbate?

About 40 strokes a minute. - Nunh-huh 09:32, 4 January 2006 (UTC)
Some would say the ideal frequency is never, some would say as much as you want. See Masturbation#Health and psychological effects. —Keenan Pepper 09:34, 4 January 2006 (UTC)


I am trying to ask the frquency means, how many times with in a particular period?

Yes. I think Nunh-huh was attempting humor. —Keenan Pepper 09:52, 4 January 2006 (UTC)

Why do you mention your weight? Without your size (body size I mean :) ) that doesn't say a lot. And even being fat or skinny doesn't seem relevant. Apart from that, Keenan already gave the answer I wanted to give. DirkvdM 11:15, 4 January 2006 (UTC)

The average for a person your sex and age is a couple of times a week. If these sorts of topics are frequently on your mind, you might want to read this overview of sex in America. --George 16:44, 4 January 2006 (UTC)
  • Two times a week? Blimey. I'm glad we're much less Christian here in the United Kingdom. I'd be left with an awful lot of spare time on my hands. As it stands (parp!) I'm left with something else on them.... --bodnotbod 00:24, 12 January 2006 (UTC)

Sounds like a Science Desk question. Loveline is probably even better, but you can never get through on the phones from what I understand. Now, while I won't say I'm a seasoned expert on this subject (though I do my fair share as any healthy young male like myself should -- HA!), I will say that perhaps the way to know how often is too often is to determine whether or not it's interfering with your life mentally, physically, or socially. In theory, if a man produces new sperm every fifteen minutes, you could do it 4x hourly, which means that you could stroke it 96 times in a 24 hour period. This, of course, is not something I'd recommend, but if you're daring, you could try. Once in the morning and once in the evening seems to do it for me, though I have been known to "alter" this schedule should the "need" "arise." Cernen 09:33, 8 January 2006 (UTC)

[edit] E-Mail

Is anyone a member of those contact a celebrity websites? I really want Trish Stratus's e-mail.Does anyone know it? Or any sites which will give it away for free?

I'll give it to you for $500. --Optichan 15:43, 4 January 2006 (UTC)
  • You never know if such contact details are current. I wouldn't take out my cash for any such sites. I would recommend trying to find a official website for this person, or track down their management or employer. - Mgm|(talk) 19:16, 4 January 2006 (UTC)
Her official website is at trishstratus.com. According to the contact page, fan mail can be sent to:
Stratus Enterprises, Inc.
5468 Dundas Street West
Suite #579
Toronto, ON
M9B 6E3
CANADA
I hope that helps. Because I don't actually have her e-mail address. --Optichan 20:38, 4 January 2006 (UTC)
'Giveaway sites' only have addresses if they are contracted to distribute the details by the person/company or their representative. (Privacy laws, I think.) So, if you want her address...then just follow Optichan's advice. --JB Adder | Talk 22:43, 10 January 2006 (UTC)

[edit] Pound to currency conversions

My sister created an article, Pound to Currency Conversions. It seems to have been deleted. Does anyone know an archived record of the discussion, or if it even has been deleted?My sisters anonymous, by the way--Young XenoNeon (converse) 09:37, 4 January 2006 (UTC)

Wikipedia:Articles for deletion/Pound to currency conversions. —Keenan Pepper 09:50, 4 January 2006 (UTC)
That doesn't give the deleted article. I've come across this problem too (can't remember which article). Is such an article physically deleted? If not, it might be accessible through the list of contributions. Under what address did your sister do the edit(s)? If it is physically deleted then Wikipedia is not a good place to keep prove of having come up with something for the first time. This will probably turn out to be historically insignificant, but I put my alternative for the Big Bang theory on my user page so that in case someone else comes up with this I can say "Ah, but I was first". :) This is probably aminor thing (only the future can tell), but more in general this is an interresting thing. How secure is info on Wikipedia? I read that drive space is not a premium and terefore assumed that nothing (especially when it's only text of a few KB) will ever get removed. I mean physically, so it is always accessible through the history. DirkvdM 11:32, 4 January 2006 (UTC)

Deleted article text is preserved in the Wikipedia database. It is accessible to administrators and can be undeleted following a mistaken deletion or a discussion at Wikipedia:Deletion review. Gdr 11:37, 4 January 2006 (UTC)

Additionally, I offer to email the deleted text to anyone. Morwen - Talk 14:06, 4 January 2006 (UTC)
  • You don't really need the article text. Google will give a more up-to-date conversion rate. - Mgm|(talk) 19:20, 4 January 2006 (UTC)

[edit] "Thank God for Hurricane Katrina" extremist group

A while ago, I saw an article on a religious extremist group that are involved in protesting gay marriage, abortions, etc etc. They were in the news for displaying signs that said "Thank God for Hurricane Katrina". Can anyone remind me of the name of this group? If I recall correctly, there weren't many members and they lived in a compound of some variety.

That would be the work of the Westboro Baptist Church. And the link you seek is here. Dismas|(talk) 13:38, 4 January 2006 (UTC)

[edit] "Everything I haven't heard of is crap."

My sister genuinely believes that anything she hasn't heard of is crap (her own words). This includes things like Pierre-Auguste Renoir, Citizen Kane, Abbey Road, Norway, the Super Nintendo, A Midsummer Night's Dream and Buddhism. What can I tell her to illustrate how ridiculous this view is? Is there a word for this sort of person?

  • Egocentrism, perhaps, though the phrasing I'd use is "self-centered moron"
I am quite surprised she can get through doors with a head that size. Tell her that if she hasn't heard of such things, it is due to ignorance, not some sort of omniscience of what is not "crap". Grumpy Troll (talk) 15:00, 4 January 2006 (UTC).
Actually more than doing something to convince her, you should probably just record her saying that so you have proof later when she reallizes she is wrong. Her view is basically an immature response to insecurity about their being so much out there that she doesn't know. It's not a terribly contructive stance, but it's not terribly destructive either, as it's not likely to effect more than her. - Taxman Talk 15:15, 4 January 2006 (UTC)
How old is she? Maybe it is just a phase.--Ali K 15:28, 4 January 2006 (UTC)
I would be genuinely interested in knowing how old she is, as I find it amazing anyone would not have heard of every one of Pierre-Auguste Renoir, Citizen Kane, Abbey Road, Norway, the Super Nintendo, A Midsummer Night's Dream and Buddhism, let alone not have heard of any of them. Has she been outside her home town in her entire life? — JIP | Talk 18:08, 4 January 2006 (UTC)
I didn't know who Pierre-Auguste Renoir was. Probably because I know nothing about culture. --Optichan 18:27, 4 January 2006 (UTC)
Maybe if you heard his name spoken it would sound more familiary: Ren-wah. --Fastfission 21:46, 4 January 2006 (UTC)
Not caring about something and not having heard of it are completely different things. I have heard of all the above but don't care about all of them.
  • I know Pierre-Auguste Renoir was some French painter. After looking at the article, I remembered he did some city landscapes. Not interesting enough.
  • I know Citizen Kane was Orson Welles's breakthrough movie and considered one of the best movies ever. I have seen it and frankly don't like it very much at all. His later movie, The Touch of Evil, was much better.
  • Norway is a really cool place, even though it's really expensive, and all the Norwegians speak Swedish in a funny way. =)
  • The Super Nintendo is really great. I finally own one (after fifteen years) but I can't get the sound working. If someone offered to swap it for a GameCube I wouldn't do it.
  • I saw A Midsummer Night's Dream in a Finnish summer theatre many years ago. It was rather entertaining but not specially great.
  • Buddhism is a really cool thing. Myself, I don't subscribe to any religion, but I find the principles of Buddhism interesting. — JIP | Talk 22:09, 4 January 2006 (UTC)
On the other hand, maybe she's brilliant, in a weird way, depending on what she means by "crap." Once you cite an example of something she hasn't heard of that isn't crap, she can say, "Well, now I've heard of it, so it isn't crap." If Citizen Kane is not something significant enough for her to be made aware of it, perhaps it is "crap." I know I'm not articulating this well, but there's something strangely intriguing -- beyond the obvious maddening egocentrism -- going on here. Mitchell k dwyer 15:35, 4 January 2006 (UTC)
Tell her that what she's just said is a Paradox, and there are plenty of paradoxes she has yet to hear of. -- Halidecyphon 18:54, 4 January 2006 (UTC)
I agree. If you needs support, use the debate of what she had heard of when she was younger, compared to what she's heard of now. --JB Adder | Talk 22:53, 10 January 2006 (UTC)
If we assume she at one point knew nothing, then that means that everything must be crap. Or, if we assume her "taste" is only now evolved, it means that she is simply saying that she does not believe that she will ever experience anything meaningful again. Pity her, until she grows out of this silliness, for she has decided to go the way of the close-minded. --Fastfission 21:49, 4 January 2006 (UTC)
Tell her that she shouldn't be such a dick, and that the two of you need to have a nice cup of tea and a sit down. Cernen 09:42, 8 January 2006 (UTC)
Avoid self references ;) Scott5114 01:50, 11 January 2006 (UTC)

[edit] can castilla be promoted if real madrid get relegated?

can castilla be promoted if real madrid get relegated?

I think La Liga rules say that the B-team can not be higher than the A-team. So if Real Madrid fell to the Segunda división, Castilla would go to Segunda B. And even if that happen, I think that they would just move Castilla's players to Real Madrid and Real Madrid's to Castilla. If they don't release them all, of course. Luigi30 (Ταλκ) 17:52, 4 January 2006 (UTC)
Oh, so we're talking about soccer here? --Optichan 18:22, 4 January 2006 (UTC)
I believe the correct term is football :) Natgoo 20:10, 4 January 2006 (UTC)
I was trying to differentiate between football and football to confuse the least people. --Optichan 17:52, 5 January 2006 (UTC)

[edit] Lutz Remediation

I heard the phrase "Lutz Remediation" and can not find any info on it. I may have heard the word "Lutz" wrong, but it is associated with cleaning up an environmental problem. Any info?

Can you give some more context, such as where you did hear that phrase? Assuming you got the "Lutz" part right, it might be either related to some remediation project at Lutz, Florida, or have something to do with the following papers:
  • Lutz, E.J. Jr.; Lee, M.D. ; Bartlett, C.L.; Buchanan, R.J.; Ellis, D.E.; Harkness, M.R.; DeWeerd, K.A.: Accelerated Anaerobic Bioremediation Pilot Study Final Report - Dover Air Force Base. Remediation Technology Development Forum Bioremediation of Chlorinated Solvents Work Group document; Dover AFB, May 22, 2000.
  • Ellis, D.E.; Lutz, E.J. Jr.; Odom, J.M.; Buchanan, R.J. Jr.; Bartlett, C.L.; Lee, M.D.; Harkness, M.R.; DeWeerd, K.A.: Bioaugmentation for Accelerated In Situ Anaerobic Bioremediation; Env. Sci. and Tech. 34(11), pp. 2254 – 2260. 2000.
HTH. Lupo 08:15, 5 January 2006 (UTC)

I found out it is Lust Property. Thanks.

[edit] Anatomy&Physiology

Please can you give me an article on the actions of the BRACHIO-RADIALIS (muscle) Thank-you P Thomas

No problem. Brachioradialis. Took me one Google search to find that. -- Ec5618 17:38, 4 January 2006 (UTC)

[edit] The heights of the Bushes

Exactly how tall is George W. Bush in comparison with his father, George H. W. Bush (not in metric)?

Thank you in advance. Mothperson cocoon 19:01, 4 January 2006 (UTC)

See List of U.S. Presidents by height order. User:Zoe|(talk) 20:31, 4 January 2006 (UTC)
We have a list about that? --cesarb 20:38, 4 January 2006 (UTC)
Haven't had such a good laugh in a long time! DirkvdM 07:57, 5 January 2006 (UTC)
Apparently Wikipedia has a lot of lists about the US presidents. --Optichan 20:50, 4 January 2006 (UTC)
v • d • e
Lists of presidents and vice presidents of the United States
Presidential lists
by order
Presidents'
professional lives
Presidents'
personal lives
Vice presidential
lists
Succession
Elections
Candidates
Unsuccessful
candidates
Fictional
Spouses
Just be grateful nobody's created Category:Taller-than-average U.S. presidents. JamesMLane 02:31, 10 January 2006 (UTC)
What do you have against metric? Anyway, I decided one day to take the trouble of memorising the full names of all eleven Finnish presidents in chronological order. I've now managed to do it well enough that you can pick any number from 1 to 11 and within less than a minute I'll tell you which president that was, and hopefully some general info about him/her. (You don't have any "her" in the United States Presidents, do you?) — JIP | Talk 21:38, 4 January 2006 (UTC)

We are all extremely sick. I have nothing against metric. I just can't visualize well. So tell me about number - 4! The clock is ticking. Mothperson cocoon 22:07, 4 January 2006 (UTC)

Try Kyösti Kallio. CambridgeBayWeather (Talk) 02:13, 5 January 2006 (UTC)
Sorry, you wrote your answer at a time when I was already sleeping at night. CambridgeBayWeather already answered your question. — JIP | Talk 06:13, 5 January 2006 (UTC)

[edit] aircraft

What General avation air craft is considered the cadillac of airplanes?

Depends on what you consider a GA aircraft. From our General Aviation article, GA includes all non-airline flights, in which case the Saudi Royal Family's private Boeing 747 would probably take the cake. If you take a more modest definition of a plane that the owner flies himself (or herself), then IMO a King Air 350 is the nicest GA plane I've seen. Mind you this is just opinion, and I knew a guy who flew his own Citation IISP which some might consider nicer. -User:Lommer | talk 23:45, 4 January 2006 (UTC)
Personally, I would prefer the Porsche of GA aircraft (if it ever gets off the ground...) - ATG Javelin. Anybody got a spare 3-4 million USD (got to have some money for fuel and maintenance...) --Robert Merkel 23:03, 5 January 2006 (UTC)

[edit] sheep's testicles

Is there another term for sheep's testicles? The French call them wiktionary:rognons blancs (white kidneys). Do we have sth poetic too? Wonderfool --Fooled...err..1 19:09, 4 January 2006 (UTC)

Bull testicles are called Rocky Mountain oysters... —Keenan Pepper 19:45, 4 January 2006 (UTC)
But only when cooked. User:Zoe|(talk) 21:32, 4 January 2006 (UTC)
I had goat's testicles in Africa, but I don't know what they were called. DirkvdM 07:59, 5 January 2006 (UTC)
Some Australians call them "lambs fry", but most others reserve that term for the lamb's liver. JackofOz 00:53, 7 January 2006 (UTC)
Bo Peep's Meatballs. Cernen 09:47, 8 January 2006 (UTC)

[edit] DVD-R

can these be used in a computer--84.51.149.80 19:09, 4 January 2006 (UTC)

Where else would you stick 'm? It's a computer medium. Yes, you can use them in stand-alone machines too, but those are just dedicated computers (not general purpose, like a pc), despite what the manual may tell you. The problem is the other way around. The standalone machines can only read a few formats. A pc could in principle read anything, but laws may prevent software vendors to give functionality for certain formats, meaning you'd have to find an illegal solution (or pay if that is an option). I'd say everyone stick to mpeg and that problem is solved. Or is there a reason not to use mpeg? DirkvdM 08:06, 5 January 2006 (UTC)

It's not working on mine.--84.51.149.80 17:01, 6 January 2006 (UTC)

Just to make sure; you don't happen to stick it in a CD or 'DVD RAM' drive? (Sorry if I offended you, but I can't know your level of expertise.) If not, at the bottom of the DVD+RW Alliance article it says that both 'plus' and 'minus' disks should work in the vast majority of DVD players. Maybe you have one of the few that can't handle the 'minus' disks. Don't know off hand where you could check that. DirkvdM 07:42, 7 January 2006 (UTC)

[edit] hover cars

how far off are we from making 'hover cars'?

I don't know about hover cars, but the Moller Skycar may go into production at some point. A "hover car" that floats above the ground using fans or jets is probably unlikely, because it would take too much energy to keep the car hovering. Rhobite 20:18, 4 January 2006 (UTC)
The Moller Skycar has been "about to go into production" for decades. As far as something that actually worked goes, there was the Williams X-Jet, which actually flew back in the 1980's. In any case, the FAA and public liability laws nearly killed off conventional private planes 20 years ago, and the airlines are already beginning to complain about the safety risks the VLJ will pose to airliners. The professionals like having the air to themselves as much as possible.--Robert Merkel 22:47, 4 January 2006 (UTC)
Personal flying vehicles for all may never happen, since the risks would be so great. A car that stalls and won't restart usually just blocks traffic, while a plane that stalls and won't restart often gets people killed. A hovercraft which is only a foot above the ground poses less of a risk, but still more than a car. The strong wind blowing out from around the skirt also would be quite annoying to pedestrians and would effect other hovercrafts nearby, and steering is not as precise in a hovercraft, necessitating wider lanes to prevent collisions. The noise level would also be unacceptable. So, I also doubt if we will ever have hovercrafts for everyone. Electric cars for everyone does seem like a possibility, once the technology is improved. StuRat 00:04, 5 January 2006 (UTC)
Moving cars also have a tendency to kill people (close to 30 million by now I believe - that's world war scale) and that hasn't caused any major uproar yet, as far as I know (alas). If you mean futuristic hovercars, well, they're as yet futuristic :) . But a hovercraft is also a hovercar. It happens to be used on water, but can also be used on land (or any other relatively flat surface). Just see the opening scenes of Die another day. StuRat already beat me to mentioning the disadvantages of land use for the general public. And similar disadvantages go for hovering with a (different sort of) jet stream.
Another option might be an adaption of magnetic rail. But that would require a complete change of infrastructure, so it's not likely to get used for anything but public transport over much used routes. The photo at Aérotrain, however, looks suspiciously like a car. And futuristic (does it use jet propulsion?).
Or did you have a specific technology in mind? DirkvdM 08:41, 5 January 2006 (UTC)
According to Back to the Future II, we'll have them in nine years, in 2015,and according to Lost in Space we had them 8 years ago. Yeltensic42.618 ambition makes you look pretty ugly 01:27, 6 January 2006 (UTC)
I'm not an engineer but... Given the poor record of the Sinclair C5, the Segway and the current hoo-hah about oil supplies running out I think hover cars will remain firmly in the realm of The Jetsons and Futurama. --bodnotbod 00:45, 12 January 2006 (UTC)

[edit] Phrase

What does the phrase (broken arrow and a bottle of wine) mean and where did it come from?

[edit] TV show

I am looking for a TV series that

  • took place in the late 90's that
  • ran in Nashville area about a man
  • Who lived in a luxury apartment
  • And also a box inside the apartment.
  • And lived a life of crime.
  • It is baffling everyone.
  • Main character's name was probably Johnny.

Main character plotted to murder someone every episode. Everyone is puzzled as to what show this is might have run on FOX or local cable TV in Nashville.

Thank you,
Rod O'Connor

  • I've formatted the question a little bit. Unfortunately, I don't know the answer. - Mgm|(talk) 09:47, 5 January 2006 (UTC)
    • I don't know the answer either, but do you know about how many episodes the series ran, and do you happen to know what night it ran on? That information could also help narrow it down some. TomStar81 00:47, 7 January 2006 (UTC)
  • Try TVTome.com. They might have what you're looking for. --JB Adder | Talk 23:00, 10 January 2006 (UTC)
    • TVtome is now TV.com, but anywhoo check Jumptheshark.com they have a section called "Stump the Shark" that may help you out. Deathawk 01:23, 14 January 2006 (UTC)

[edit] January 5

[edit] Citing Sources

How does one cite a comic book? (MLA format) Do you have to bother with pencilers, inkers, and letterers? Or perhaps just the writer and the colorist? DuctapeDaredevil 00:52, 5 January 2006 (UTC)

I think it might depend on what you were referencing - the artwork or the storyline - and decide what's appropriate to leave out. This site has some suggestions and examples, and the standard citation they give is to list the writer (w), penciller (p) and inker (i) like this: Fox, Gardner F. (w), Mike Sekowsky (p), and Bernard Sachs (i). "The Wheel of Misfortune." Justice League of America #6 (Aug.-Sep. 1961), National Comics Publications [DC Comics]. --Canley 01:33, 5 January 2006 (UTC)
Thannnnkkkk Yooooouuuuu! (And I was refrencing a quote.) DuctapeDaredevil 03:00, 5 January 2006 (UTC)

[edit] Human Meat

Does anyone here know or can make a scientificly accurate estimate as to what human meat would taste like medium cooked and unseasoned of a average weight, build, cholesterol etc. man/woman, taken from standard muscle tissue, and then a comparison to more dense muscle tissue?

I would presume that there would be an internal bodily system to discourage the taste or thought of eating human meat.

PLease use as much detail as possible texture, taste, smell etc. (7121989 01:24, 5 January 2006 (UTC))

Try Cannibalism check out the see also and this guy Armin Meiwes has some information on what sauteéd penis tastes like. CambridgeBayWeather (Talk) 02:22, 5 January 2006 (UTC)
Tastes like chicken of course. --hydnjo talk 03:54, 5 January 2006 (UTC)
Shouldn't be very different from other meats. And I don't think there's any "an internal bodily system to discourage the taste or thought of eating human meat." I guess it's a matter of culture. I have the same repulsion and disgust for eating any kind of meat. deeptrivia (talk) 05:09, 5 January 2006 (UTC)
Why would there be an 'internal bodily system' to discourage eating human meat? One reason would be that the closer the animal you eat is to you, the greater the chances that any disease it has will be contagious to you. And that would especially go for human meat. Indeed, there is a disease one can only get from eating human brains (some Papuas still get that disease occasionally, I've heard....). But that should then discourage us eating any meat that is close to us, like pigs or monkeys. I tried a monkey once and my travelling companion pointed out to me that that was probably the closest we'd ever get to eating human meat. Tasted ok, though (a bit stringy). But eating human flesh can also be a life saver. In mankind's history, we've mostly been hunters/gatherers, living in small bands. When such a group was going through a difficult period food-wise, I suppose they ate each other (first the dead and then the weak?). And it seems to me that that option is a stronger advantage than the disadvantage of the risk of infection. There might be some built-in mechanism to prevent us eating meat that shows signs of disease, though. Oh, but I believe meat eaters don't eat meat eaters. We're omnivores, though. DirkvdM 08:52, 5 January 2006 (UTC)
There are often bodily systems put in place as 7121989 stated which prevent humans harming each other out of cause. This was put in place long ago through evolution to ensure no self-harm to a species, so that it be preserved. This is evident in many animals and a human example is the 'wrongness' of murder and the human guilt that can occur after murder eg. macbeth syndrome etc. Serial killers suffer from a distinct lack of this sympathy and there is also a reverse an urge for murder in cold blood.
  • How something tastest is entirely subjective, so even if you do get an answer, you may not agree with it (assuming you ever tasted to compare). - Mgm|(talk) 09:49, 5 January 2006 (UTC)1

Allow me to point you in the direction of ManBeef.com. That's an archive link, as it's sadly died, so don't go there now, as it's just advertising. Take a look on google for information about it (sadly, it turned out to be a hoax) Proto t c 14:41, 5 January 2006 (UTC)

Allen, Gary. 1999. What is the Flavor of Human Flesh? Presented at the Symposium Cultural and Historical Aspects of Foods Oregon State University, Corvallis, OR [9] --George 14:46, 5 January 2006 (UTC)

[edit] Grant Hill

What happened to Grant Hill?

Grant Hill who? CambridgeBayWeather (Talk) 02:16, 5 January 2006 (UTC)

[edit] Could this be OCD?

I have a "need" to exert pressure on my hands and feet, especially in the evening before I go to sleep. I usually put my hand into a fist and squeeze it between the bed and wall, or between the mattresses. I also tend to push my feet between couch cushions or under the body of my partner. This is a behavior I have had since childhood. Is there a name for this?

This does not fit the diagnostic criteria for obsessive-compulsive disorder. It does remind me of a similar and fairly widespread phenomenon: that of hugging or squeezing or immobilizing for comfort or calming. See hug machine for a more extreme example of this. alteripse 03:22, 5 January 2006 (UTC)

I vaguely remember once hearing that such squeezing reminds one of being in the womb.
The following is a bit off-topic, but could still be helpful. At Rainbow Gatherings there is a custom to hug one another, which is quite a nice feeling once you give into it. You may have to break some psychological barrier and maybe that itself gives the liberating sensation. But my guess it has indeed to do with bodily contact. The squeeze is quite important. I've seen a couple hug tightly for a few minutes and break out in tears. It can be quite powerful. There's even a 'hug police' that looks around for people who feel glum, upon which they hug them to cheer them up. And I once heard of someone breaking up a fight by hugging one of the fighters. Of course that person was thus immobilised and the other may have felt ashamed to take advantage of the situation. Or maybe they were so flabbergasted they forgot about the fight. :) DirkvdM 09:07, 5 January 2006 (UTC)
You could have Restless legs syndrome. It's a horrible thing that robs you of your sleep. I have a milder version, but it was only discovered when I went to a sleep clinic. You need some good drugs from a specialist, which really work. --Zeizmic 13:53, 5 January 2006 (UTC)
To clear confusion, there is something called Hypnic jerk which is very normal and always drives the slower sleeping partner nuts. You will also notice this if your dog likes to sleep on you. --Zeizmic 21:25, 5 January 2006 (UTC)

[edit] Trees of Oklahoma

Bold text

So it is! (?) And this is in italics. Know any more? DirkvdM 08:59, 5 January 2006 (UTC)
AND THIS IS IN ALL CAPS. Yeltensic42.618 ambition makes you look pretty ugly 01:44, 6 January 2006 (UTC)
strikethrough and underline! And ALL TOGETHER NOW!! DirkvdM 08:26, 6 January 2006 (UTC)
Small text. Yeltensic42.618 ambition makes you look pretty ugly 14:17, 6 January 2006 (UTC)
large text Yeltensic42.618 ambition makes you look pretty ugly 14:23, 6 January 2006 (UTC)

.txet sdrawkcaB 64.198.112.210 21:11, 13 January 2006 (UTC)

[edit] Headline text

I need more information on the Trees of Oklahoma, what link can i find this information?


Sincerely, Janice Johnson <removed email address>

[10] seems like a good place to start. Take a look at the Flora project. GeeJo (t) (c) • 03:56, 5 January 2006 (UTC)
Please don't post your email address here. Spammers love that sort of thing. User:Zoe|(talk) 16:33, 5 January 2006 (UTC)

[edit] France

What is Franc's main export?

From the Economy of France artice:
Principal French exports to the United States are aircraft and engines, beverages, electrical equipment, chemicals, cosmetics, and luxury products. France is the ninth-largest trading partner of the U.S. СПУТНИКСССР 02:50, 5 January 2006 (UTC)
You're aware that not all exports end up in the US, right? In fact it's close to only 6% of their exported goods. In general, machinery and transportation equipment, chemicals, iron and steel products; agricultural products, textiles and clothing are the principal exports of France, mostly to other EU members. GeeJo (t) (c) • 03:49, 5 January 2006 (UTC)

[edit] Searching college graduates (quebec)

Is there a place online where I am able to check if a certain person is a college graduate (documents available from 80's). This is for people in Quebec. If not, what would I have to do to search up a person to see their education?

Search for the person's name in Google! You won't be able to prove the person isn't a college graduate, but their name should appear somewhere online if they are and you might be able to glean some educational information from the search results. --Canley 04:12, 5 January 2006 (UTC)
Good lord! It's a huge assumption to think that every uni graduate is going to be mentioned online in a way that confirms their education. Can you contact the university the person says they graduated from and ask? Also ask to see their degree/s and academic transcript. Natgoo 11:09, 5 January 2006 (UTC)
Absoultely, it's a big assumption. Obviously Google isn't a definitive college record! However, many graduates (and I did say should) appear online if they have written a paper which is stored somewhere on the web, or if their graduation record is stored online. Very unlikely for the 80s of course, but it's the best chance this person has (apart from the obvious - actually asking the person to provide proof). -Canley 17:45, 6 January 2006 (UTC)

[edit] hair locks

why the hair gets locked for some people? What is the scientific reaction behind this phenominon ? Nirmala

Do you mean like dreadlocks? That's just a matter of not combing one's hair. Your question suggests that doesn't happen for all hair types. Which ones? Stiff curly hair maybe? DirkvdM 09:14, 5 January 2006 (UTC)

[edit] Goggle

IS there any goggle made which can visiualise beyond someone's wearing?Is it possible to see through wall of bricks by using it?Any technical base for that?

Kind off; special thermal imaging cameras have been used to that effect; see X-ray vision and X-Ray Specs (novelty). Great artist's impression on there! smurrayinchester(User), (Talk) 07:56, 5 January 2006 (UTC)
Something similar exists for viewing through walls. However, with this, you only see heat transmitted by the bodies. If you want to see in 'normal light', that light would have to reflect off the body and then pass through the clothes. But then you wouldn't need special goggles or whatever. Of course, there's also that picture of Diana in a see-through dress, but that requires special clothing on the part of the 'victim' (also, it was just a silhouette). And that is one of the prerequisites. The other is the light being strong enough. In other words, this can't be done secretly. Or is there a wavelength that would pass through clothes but get reflected off skin? The result would be black and white, though (or whatever monochromatic colour you want to give it).
There's a much simpler solution, though. Break into a girl's shower room (at a sports stadium) and install a camera with a radio transmitter. Or isn't that what you were thinking of? :) DirkvdM 09:25, 5 January 2006 (UTC)
Some airports security have this box you walk into. You are fully clothed but the security guards see you naked, and what's in all the pockets of your clothes. If you not want them to see you like this, then either not go through those airports, or see if they will let you wear a Scots Sporran. User:AlMac|(talk) 09:53, 5 January 2006 (UTC)
How does that work then? Or what is that called? DirkvdM 10:49, 5 January 2006 (UTC)
Backscatter X-ray machine. Basically, while a normal X-ray machine measures the X-rays which can get through, Backscatter measures those which can't get through. These are reflected back into the machine, which can then generate a 3D image of every layer of the subject. smurrayinchester(User), (Talk) 18:58, 5 January 2006 (UTC)
Wouldn't that require much (much much) stronger radiation than a 'normal' (silhouette) x-ray image? And wouldn't that be a health hazard? I wouldn't mind people seeing me 'naked', but I do value my health. Shouldn't (by law - whose law?) a warning be given whenever a journey involves going through such a box? And where are they in use? DirkvdM 08:34, 6 January 2006 (UTC)
It actually requires weaker x-rays; normal x-rays need to be so strong that they can pass right through your muscle and fatty tissue, while backscatter needs weaker x-rays; the x-rays are bounced back harmlessly off the skin. smurrayinchester(User), (Talk) 17:08, 6 January 2006 (UTC)

[edit] Any way to "break" the password of a RAR file?

Is there any way to extract files from a passworded RAR file (in this case, various .r01, r.02 files, etc) without the password?

It's rather difficult. As our article on RAR notes, strong encryption is used, so the only feasible attack is a dictionary attack (essentially, getting a computer to guess the password). If a good password has been chosen, you won't be able to read the files. Elcomsoft sells software for this purpose; it wouldn't be hard to write an open source version but it'll be much easier to just pay the money to buy the software (though they do have a free 30-day trial). --Robert Merkel 09:56, 5 January 2006 (UTC)
Many uploaders include the password in the .nfo file posted with the rars. Make sure you read the .nfo file before assuming you don't have the password - you may need to download a viewer (such as DAMN NFO viewer) to read. Natgoo 10:59, 5 January 2006 (UTC)
Notepad will usually open up an .nfo file easily enough. Proto t c 16:15, 5 January 2006 (UTC)
Heh I didn't know that. Makes total sense, though, being a text file and all. Duh. Thanks :) Natgoo 18:58, 5 January 2006 (UTC)

[edit] Photoshop assistance...

Could someone with photoshop cut the main figure out of this photograph, and paste him onto a white background?

http://img217.imageshack.us/img217/9578/gcthelegendofzeldatwilightprin.jpg

Thanks a lot. :)

Again? Why can't you do it yourself? Lupo 12:29, 5 January 2006 (UTC)

Wow, I'm so sorry, I didn't realise I'd already put it on... Sorry!

[edit] HTML

In HTML script, I just can't figure out how to make multiple web pages for your site(in addition to your home page, you know, a scroll along the side). You know, a trivia section of your website etc. Its tearing me apart! My website was perfect!--Young XenoNeon (converse) 12:18, 5 January 2006 (UTC)

Try looking at the HTML source of this page. Taiq 13:50, 5 January 2006 (UTC)



This is good: I already knew how to provide links to URLs. How do you create the subpage URLs that you link to?--Young XenoNeon (converse) 16:36, 5 January 2006 (UTC)

I assume you're talking about anchors. Here's a page that has some.

So to make the first one, I would start with

<a href="#jormun">Jormungand</a>

That makes the link. Then I would put:

<a name="jormun">Jormungand</a>

to get the header, and the place to link to. See how the name defined in the second part is the thing linked to? You can also link directly to an anchor on a diffrent page by typing out the web address, then adding a hash mark (#) and the anchor name. 64.198.97.66 20:54, 5 January 2006 (UTC) Or maybe it's the creation of the subpages themselves, in which case it depends on your webhosting provider. But most of them have a little link in your file manager that says 'create new file'. -Del

[edit] Owen Jackson

Who is owen jackson

A Google search shows that Owen Jackson is currently the Director of Procurement and E-Commerce for the Jamaica Business Resource Center. Did you mean Gwyneth Owen-Jackson? Taiq 13:52, 5 January 2006 (UTC)

[edit] long haul flights

I'm about to fly from England and Australia and wondered how pilots on long haul flights stay awake? Is there really enough work to keep the crew fully occupied? Or do they just sit there and drink coffee? --Shantavira 14:20, 5 January 2006 (UTC)

I would imagine the co-pilot takes over while the pilot naps, but that's just a guess. Taiq 14:21, 5 January 2006 (UTC)

On long haul flights, there is more than one set of crew, and they rotate. There'd be up to 3 co-pilots. There is only one captain / pilot, who must be at the stick for take-off and landing, and so for a lot of the cruising at altitude, two of the co-pilots wil be flying the plane. Proto t c 14:36, 5 January 2006 (UTC)
Ok, but wouldn't they just fly on auto-pilot? --Shantavira 14:52, 5 January 2006 (UTC)
Yes, but they still have to be there, in case anything goes wrong. Proto t c 14:57, 5 January 2006 (UTC)
So my original questions stand. --Shantavira 16:02, 5 January 2006 (UTC)
As does my answer - the autopilot handles the flying once the plane has reached cruising altitude, but at all times there needs to be two people capable of piloting the plane in the cockpit, on duty. On a long haul flight, there are more than two on the plane, and they rotate. There is always plenty to keep the flight crew occupied, even when autopilot is engaged; autopilots are not that clever, and will only keep the plane moving in a straight line at a set height - any and all course changes must be carried out by the flight crew. And those changes take place a lot, due to weather conditions, turbulence, etc. They have to remain in contact with various air traffic controls, watch out for other planes, monitor the status of the plane itself, and so on. Proto t c 16:13, 5 January 2006 (UTC)
Thanks Proto, that is reassuring. --Shantavira 16:34, 5 January 2006 (UTC)
I imagine you're asking partially because you feel horribly lethargic and distracted after even a medium-haul flight, and you can't imagine doing something important like flying an aircraft. Pilots don't, really, feel any worse than you'd feel after a long day at the office. One reason is, as you say, that they have stuff to do. But another reason is that they're getting oxygen-enriched air; although the air pressure in the cockpit is the same as in the rest of the aircraft (which is around 80% of stp) the partial pressure of oxygen is about the same as at stp. So while you're back in cattle class with mild oxygen deprivation, they're fine up at the pointy end. How, you might ask, do the cabin staff cope, particularly given that they're doing aerobic exercise while you're just sitting there like a pudding? Partially they're used to it (which I guess means that they've got more red blood cells than they would do otherwise), partially they can get a little shot of oxygen from a mask in the galley, and partially they don't - I've been on several flights (well, two, I think) where a member of cabinstaff has fainted. Proto's sleeping-and-turn-taking answer works fine for commercial aircraft, but it's harder to do for long-haul military aircraft such as the B-2 Spirit - for that they still try to sleep, but eventually they break out the Dextroamphetamine. Read the side-effects section of that article and think how you feel about someone armed with a theromonuclear bomb taking some. -- Finlay McWalter | Talk 21:33, 5 January 2006 (UTC)
That might explain why Slim Pickens was so excitable at the end of Dr Strangelove. Perhaps he had been helping himself to the emergency rations. --Heron 12:43, 7 January 2006 (UTC)

[edit] Wikipedia's "date and time" preference.

When I set my preferences in Wikipedia, I set the time offset to 11 hours -- it shows the correct time in the "Local time" box... but whenever I sign a post, it still shows up as the server time (14:21), when it should say 01:23. What's wrong? Taiq 14:23, 5 January 2006 (UTC)

You'd want all signatures to use the same time zone, so that when reading a conversation you can know the order of things. Notinasnaid 16:20, 5 January 2006 (UTC)
The obvious follow-up to that one, is, of course, "Then why can't that common timezone be my timezone?". The answer, is, of course, that the WP database format really isn't made for that (remember, you aren't the only WP user). After signing with your signature (~~~~), they are immediately exchanged with the current date and time, and are stored in the database at pure ASCII text. Fixing old signatures basically is impossible. What would be feasible though, is to make future time stamps dynamically recomputed to match the timezone of choice of the user. I don't suppose this is high on the developers' to-do-list, though, and it would probably eat some server performance as well. TERdON 22:25, 5 January 2006 (UTC)

It's not server time — the servers are mostly in St Petersburg, Florida — but UTC, as it says in parentheses on every signature! Gdr 22:17, 5 January 2006 (UTC)

  • Note that the date/time stamp in your signature adds "(UTC)" indicating that the date/times have been converted to a common time zone. The notation of your post in the Page history however, should reflect the time zone of your preference. --hydnjo talk 22:23, 5 January 2006 (UTC)

[edit] Words to describe a person

Hello,

what I am looking for is how could I find different words to describe a person? Because someone once asked me describe your husband in one word.

I need help trying to find the perfect word for my husband!!!!! HELP!!!

A thesaurus is a great reference for this sort of thing. As a specific word, though, I suggest ineffable (definition #1). — Lomn | Talk / RfC 16:10, 5 January 2006 (UTC)
Nobody can really be summed up in one word, and English is very rich in adjectives. Try describing you husband in several words to start with, and see if a theme emerges. If he resembles somebody (or something) famous, that name might provide a useful shortcut. --Shantavira 16:11, 5 January 2006 (UTC)

Assuming this is a national emergency, I suggest you rip out all the pages from your dictionary and start throwing darts. Cernen 06:57, 9 January 2006 (UTC)

[edit] Weight of Planet Earth

Does the burning of fossil fuels and forest fires have any significant effect on the weight of the Earth and will it have adverse effects in the future in relation to gravity, axis, rotation etc; Bearing in mind that the Earth year, we are told, was once about 400 days?

Burning merely changes the matter from one form into another. See Law of conservation of matter. --Shantavira 16:15, 5 January 2006 (UTC)
In conjunction with the above, the matter remains (for all practical intents and purposes) as part of the closed Earth system. Smoke does not appreciably escape into interplanetary space. Tides, however, do effect a slowing of the Earth's rotation. — Lomn | Talk / RfC 16:20, 5 January 2006 (UTC)
The only way a chemical reaction could change the mass of the Earth is if a light gas, like hydrogen or helium gas, was produced. Such gases move to the upper atmosphere, where the force of gravity is less, then get blown into space by the solar wind or their own thermal energy. Nuclear reactions, on the other hand, directly reduce the mass of the elements undergoing fusion or fission, by changing some of that mass into energy. However, the amount of mass converted to energy is insignificant as compared with the total mass of Earth. StuRat 21:05, 5 January 2006 (UTC)
That last point is about a mistaken assumption I've often heard people make in various reasonings. Earth's radius is roughly 6000 km. Earth's atmosphere is a few hundred km thick if you stretch the term. But only 100 km up is already almost vacuum. And 50% of the mass of the atmosphere is located in the bottom 5 km. That's just 1/1000 of Earth's radius. But this is linear and the Earth is three dimensional, so this has to be raised to the power 3, so that's one billionth of the volume (times two, because we're talking about 50% of the atmosphere, but that's nitpicking, relatively speaking). Add to that that the atmosphere is gas and the Earth is solid mass and you have to conclude that the atmosphere is a flimsy, almost negligible, layer from Earth's perspective (if the Earth would have a perspective :) ). DirkvdM 09:12, 6 January 2006 (UTC)
Days are getting longer by about 1.5 microseconds per year, but this is due to the Moon (see tidal acceleration). This might explain why there are now fewer days in a year than there used to be. The "400 days" comes from palaeontological observations (explained here). To go from 400 days to 365 days at 1.5 us per year would take 2 trillion years, which is much longer than the age of the Earth. Therefore the rate of slowing must have been much greater in the planet's youth, probably because the Moon was closer to the Earth. None of this has anything to do with the burning of fossil fuels. Mankind doesn't yet have the power to ruin the solar system (but we're working on it). --Heron 12:34, 7 January 2006 (UTC)
The Earth actualy keep getting heavier. Every day about 100 tons of Space dust fall on the Earth. --Sherool (talk) 01:02, 11 January 2006 (UTC)
  • What about house dust (ie, human skin)? Does that add to the weight too? --bodnotbod 01:24, 12 January 2006 (UTC)
  • Nope house dust is just matter moving from one form to another. Dead skin cells, sweat and other -- waste products your body discard have at one point been added to your body as food or drink. It gets broken down and re-shaped by various chemical and biological processes, but the sum of it all would still weight the same (if you take into acount the gasses that are created too). --Sherool (talk) 04:47, 12 January 2006 (UTC)
  • Yes, of course you're right. I've been a fool. --bodnotbod 11:36, 13 January 2006 (UTC)

[edit] Dinosaurs

Which dinosaur was the biggest?

  • Try this search on the website for the Guiness World Records book. - Mgm|(talk) 19:25, 5 January 2006 (UTC)
Very interesting: they actually spell it Guinness, but the URL works with either guinessrecords.com or guinnessrecords.com. They're obviously used to people getting it wrong! --Anonymous, 06:12 UTC, January 7, 2006
Qantas had the same problem, so they list themselves under Quantas in lots of places. JackofOz 00:59, 7 January 2006 (UTC)

[edit] number and names of US trade corporate book publishers as of 1/2006

[edit] PSP Locationfree player help

Hi, I was wondering what the base player is, for example, have a Sony Network Media Reciver (PCNA-MR10A) and was wondering if i could connect this to the PSP as the base player, and if so how?

[edit] How many different book publishing contracts with major publishing houses and their imprints are available as of 1/2006

Q: How many different book publishing contracts with major publishing houses and their imprints are available to a writer or a literary agent submitting an original work of fiction or of nonfiction, adult or children, for publication in English in the US?

"...ten years ago today,there were a lot more ...large-ish publishers for agents and packagers to sell to in all markets than there are now [2005]...The biggest publishers have been buying companies a level or two down from them and reducing the combined title output as well as reducing the types of deals that writers and their agents are able to make." --www.idealog.com E.g., One contract boilerplate for Random House, Inc., owned by Bertelsmann AG., which is home to: Ballantine Books Ballantine Reader's Circle Del Rey Del Rey/LucasBooks Fawcett Ivy One World Wellspring Bantam Hardcover Bantam Mass Market Bantam Trade Paperbacks Crimeline Delacorte Press Dell Delta Domain DTP Fanfare Island Spectra The Dial Press Bell Tower Clarkson Potter Crown Business Crown Publishers Inc. Harmony Books Prima Shaye Areheart Books Three Rivers Press Broadway Books Currency Doubleday Doubleday Image Doubleday Religious Publishing Main Street Books Nan A. Talese Harlem Moon Alfred A. Knopf Anchor Everyman's Library Pantheon Books Schocken Books Vintage Random House Audio Publishing Group Villard Books The Modern Library RH Trade Paperbacks Striver's Row Books Random House Children's Books: Alfred A. Knopf, Bantam, Crown, David Fickling Books, Delacorte Press, Dell Dragonfly, Dell Laurel-Leaf, Dell Yearling Books, Doubleday, Wendy Lamb Books

    1. end##

[edit] Business Enquiry

Dear Sir/Madam,

I am a business Man who deals with NAT OIL and am just searching for companies or factories that deals with that type of products and I am fortunate to come across your site. Can you please help me with companies or indusries that deals with such products. If you dont have any knowledge about any company dealing with NAT OIL then I will like if possible you help me with SOAP OIL COMPANIES IN EUROPE OR ASIA.

NB:I would like to put my email address for any one who want to help me with such companies(email removed)

I shall be very grateful if my request is giving a cosideration.

Thanks Lamin Dampha

[edit] Aphasia

Where can I find out when a person has aphasia although they can't talk coherently can they think straight?````

From his neurologist, if it's a question about a specific person. If it's a general question, many people with aphasia have no trouble thinking. But there are all kinds of aphasias (expressive, fluent aphasia, etc.) depending on the location of the brain lesion causing it. People with expressive aphasias in particular usually have no problem with comprehension or thinking. - Nunh-huh 21:23, 5 January 2006 (UTC)

I periodically suffer from the effects of aphasia during Transient ischemic attack. Typically for me the aphasia is nounal, that is, I cannot communicate clearly, but I can sometimes use articles and verbs, and express a certain amount of anxiety at my condition (typically by cursing). I'm not sure what your question is, though. If you have any questions, feel free to ask, either on here on my user page. Bethefawn 10:14, 10 January 2006 (UTC)

[edit] Trouble's my middle name?

How many people have been unfortunate enough to actually have 'danger' or 'trouble' or whatever as their middle name? --Fangz 21:56, 5 January 2006 (UTC)

Austin Danger Powers is one of them. Yeltensic42.618 ambition makes you look pretty ugly 01:50, 6 January 2006 (UTC)
  • You know, I rather think Fangz was asking about real people. For myself, I can't think of any. --Anonymous, 06:00 UTC, January 7
Not a middle name, but a first name from history: Dangereuse de l'Isle Bouchard, wife of Aimery I de Rochefoucauld, Vicomte de Chatellerhault. - Nunh-huh 03:10, 6 January 2006 (UTC)
Should we have an article about her, or her husband? —Keenan Pepper 08:01, 6 January 2006 (UTC)
Both would be nice, though I don't know enough to write them.

Aumary I de Rochefoucauld (b. 1077 (l'Isle-Bouchard, France), d. 7 November 1151 at L'Abbaye de Notre Dame de Noyers-sur-Cher, Indre-et-Loire, Centre, France), son of Boso II de Chastellerault (-1092) and his wife Eleanor de Thouars. He married in 1109 Dangereuse de l'Isle-Bouchard (also known as Dangerose and as Dangerosa), b. about 1079 Isle Bouchard, France, d. after 1119), daughter of Barthollomew de l'Isle-Bouchard and his wife Gerberga. Dangereuse either had a sister named Mauberge, or Maubergeonne or Maubergeron, or herself used the name Maubergeonne, as a woman by that name was also married to Aumary I de Rochefoucauld. One of them (Dangereuse or Maubergeonne) or Dangereuse/Maubergeonne, if she was one woman and not two, was also mistress of Duke William "the Troubadour" of Potou. Through their daughter Eleonore, who married Duke William X of Aquitaine, Count of Poitou 1126-1137, Dangereuse and Aumary were ancestors of King George I of Great Britain, Lady Diana, Prime Minister Chruchill, George Washingtion, and Louis XVII. - 08:41, 6 January 2006 (UTC)

[edit] my 9/11 videogame

hi iam an aspiring videogame designer i have an idea for a videogame about the september 11 th terriost attacks the premise of the game is to be told the mission from none other than bin laden himself and then you will choose which one of the 9/11 hijackers you want to be.what i want to know is are you disguted with my videogame idea or not if you are i won`t go through with it.

Yes, I am disgusted with it, as would be many others. I suspect legal and extralegal actions might be taken against you if you make such a game. In the US, for example, there is a law against profitting from a criminal act, which this seems to be. You could also be sued by the families of individual victims, who would argue that you are profiting from the deaths of their loved ones, without their permission, and thus owe them money. StuRat 22:36, 5 January 2006 (UTC)
IANAL, but profiting from a criminal act isn't federal law but state law and where it is, it applies only to the person(s) convicted of the crime. And I doubt very much you'd get any money in a civil case. Do I have to pay the Kennedys if I write a book on the JFK assassination? I think not. It doesn't change the fact that it's a highly insensitive and stupid thing to do. But stupidity isn't illegal - Freedom of speech is more important than hurt feelings. Anyway.. the author should perhaps also think less about his 'storyline' and concern himself more about what makes a good game. The background story had little to do with it, last I played something. --BluePlatypus 01:12, 6 January 2006 (UTC)
Indeed, a company recently announced a game where the player plays Oswald and has to perfectly reproduce the fatal shots [11]. I don't know what came of it, but its website could be read to now say that it was a joke announcement. It certainly garnered a huge, and entirely unfavourable, response. -- Finlay McWalter | Talk 17:47, 6 January 2006 (UTC)
You're kidding, right? There's no way in the world any commercial distributor would fund or sell a game like that in the Western world. In fact, *any* game where the human player plays a terrorist is likely to get you into trouble. Think up something a little less politically contentious (set your game in the future or the more distant past, for a start). --Robert Merkel 22:59, 5 January 2006 (UTC)


Unlike StuRat, I don't see any good legal basis on which you could be sued, unless there's a specific statute that's been passed regarding 9/11. If you do make the game, though, you should certainly talk to a lawyer about it. Regardless of the legalities, I doubt it would sell very well. It's a sensitive topic. (But to answer your question: No, I'm not disgusted. "At ev'ry Trifle scorn to take Offense, / That always shows Great Pride, or Little Sense") --George 23:47, 5 January 2006 (UTC)
Even if they lose, having to defend yourself against multiple lawsuits could still be rather unpleasant and expensive. As far as extralegal methods, you might find your company, or any company associated with the sale of such a game, is the target of a boycott. You might also be threatened physically by angry family members of victims. If you want to make a 9-11 video game, make it based on stopping the terrorists. You could be an air marshall on one of the planes, for example. This would still upset many people, but not to the extent of taking the side of the terrorists would. If you set it in the future, and maybe call it Air Marshall, then you might have a good seller that doesn't anger people so much. StuRat 03:19, 6 January 2006 (UTC)

You could reverse the concept and be a fireman or a cop or a civillian and save people. -Del

You will probably face lawsuits and media blacklisting. (If anyone notices.) But the idea in itself is probably protected under free speech rights. In the end, it probably depends on how you treat the case. Will you be sensitive? Will you glorify or trivialise the attacks? What choices will the player have? What rewards? There have been plenty of fictional works focusing on crimes from the viewpoint of the perpetrators. e.g. [12], [13], so there is nothing intrinsically wrong with it. --Fangz 00:25, 7 January 2006 (UTC)
Something else you may want to consider as well: The USA PATRIOT ACT could be used against you to investigate your personal/profesional history, along the money trail that such a game may or may not bring in. If the United States Government deems the game to be terrorist supportive they may make a preemptive move to sieze the game before you have a chance to do anything with it. Additionally, the ESRB will rate your game according to several criteria, if you end up with a game rating of Mature (M) or Adult Only (AO) the number of stores that will consider carrying your product will nosedive faster than a speeding bullet. Those still interested in your game at that point would probably be required to show ID when they go to buy or rent it. Just throwing that out their. (And for the record, I am very distugusted with the concept). TomStar81 00:59, 7 January 2006 (UTC)

Also, the US Congress would likely ban pro-terrorist video games by passing laws. I doubt if the now quite conservative US Supreme Court would overturn such laws in the current climate. StuRat 01:40, 7 January 2006 (UTC)

And at the end of it all, you'll surely become famous. deeptrivia (talk) 06:07, 7 January 2006 (UTC)

All of the above responses seem to be about the US. In other countries 1) law suits aren't nearly as common as in the US (it seems half the world's lawyers live in the US) and 2) there isn't quite as strong a sentiment about the attacks and there are probably loads of people who would want to play such a game. After all there are loads of people who hate the US sufficiently for this. So you may be out of luck in the US, but the rest of the world is still quite a considerable market, to put it mildly :) . That's the power of information; distribution is so cheap the world is your oyster. Having said that, I like neither video games nor violence (nor oysters, for that matter :) ). That's violence of any kind, real, fake, terrorist or 'official' military. So I'll certainly not be a customer.

By the way, can the US supreme court overrule government laws? Isn't that in violation of the trias politica, supposedly one of the cornerstones of modern western societies? Then again, I recently realised that in the Netherlands executive power and legislative power overlap. What's next? DirkvdM 08:38, 7 January 2006 (UTC)

Yes, the supreme court can do that. For congress to get around that little road block they can add an ammendment to the US Constitution; since the Constitution is the supreme law of the United States it can not be overuled without an ammendment to that effect. A really good example of this is the 18th ammendment, which could only be overuled by adding the 21st ammendment. TomStar81

Acclaim Entertainment tried to sell their games using publicity stunts. They went bust. Gdr 16:20, 7 January 2006 (UTC)

It's a good thing the Supreme Court can do that, or Bush would do even more damage than he already does. (unless of course his appointees make the court a reflection of him). Your game doesn't disgust me, but I won't be a customer, I love video games (even violent ones, though I'm not a fan of actual violence) but that one doesn't sound like it's down my alley. Yeltensic42.618 ambition makes you look pretty ugly 21:52, 7 January 2006 (UTC)

So it's even worse, the Supreme Court can even amend the constitution! I suppose this makes sense where there is just one person in power. But not from a perspective of the Netherlands, where a parliament off 225 people have to agree to a change in the constitution over two consecutive terms of government. DirkvdM 08:25, 8 January 2006 (UTC)
An amendment requires the approval of two-thirds of each house in Congress and three-quarters of state legislatures (I think those are the right numbers). The Supreme Court doesn't decide that, they can only declare laws unconstitutional according to how the Constitution already is. Yeltensic42.618 ambition makes you look pretty ugly 00:00, 9 January 2006 (UTC)
Exactly. The supreme court is bound by the US constitution, they can not overule the constitution because they are sworn to defend it. This goes back to the checks and balances: Congressional laws can be overturned by the US Supreme Court; however Congress’ check against the supreme court is the ability to ammend th US Constitution to reflect the laws they wish the United States to uphold. The supreme court is powerless to stop such a process, and when a law becomes an ammendment the supreme court must uphold that ammendment. TomStar81 01:15, 9 January 2006 (UTC)
Several years ago I played Operation Olympic (game) which was the secret code name for the Allies plan to invade Japan at the end of WW II, when development of Nuclear weapons was even more so a top secret. If you played the game, and the result was that 1 million GI's got killed, then the result was considered consistent with historical expectations. If less than 1 million GI's got killed, then the American side had won, because the American player had done a better job than the historical plan expected. If more than 1 million GI's got killed, then the Japanese side had won. It was a foregone conclusion that Japan would be defeated. The point of the game was to maximize or minimuze Allied casualties.
Now such a game is playable and marketable, when the pain of memories of the time has sufficiently faded from the consiousness of the people who lived through the reality, and that of their descendents. I dare say a game about the Holocaust would not yet fly, because that pain was so great that it will be felt for many generations to come. Games about what went on in the Korean War might fly, but I think the Vietnam War was too recent. You have to weigh how great the pain and upheaval of an event was in history, and how long ago, before it is grist for some game design. I think with 9/11 we need to wait 200 years before it is a safe topic for a game.
User:AlMac|(talk) 01:30, 9 January 2006 (UTC)
There've been many Vietnam games already, some of which were published while the war was still going on. The problem with a 9/11 game isn't the recency, but that so many people would consider it to be in very bad taste. The First Amendment doesn't protect against economic censorship. As others have noted, you couldn't find investors, distributors, etc. You might move a few copies as shareware to the kind of people who, immediately after 9/11, participated in betting pools about what the final casualty total would be. If you're moved to do a game about a surprise attack, though, try something like Washington's crossing of the Delaware. If you want the subject to be an attack on civilians, consider Wounded Knee Massacre. As for the Holocaust, again I don't think it's the recency, but rather the idea of having a player in the role of committing genocide. You could certainly do a game in which the player leads a team of commandos trying to liberate the inmates of a concentration camp. JamesMLane 03:14, 10 January 2006 (UTC)

I would like to see you make this game just to see what would happen. Bethefawn 02:50, 10 January 2006 (UTC)

[edit] Georgia history

Which region of Georgia had the fastest population growth rate after WWII?

Which Georgia? The US state or the former Soviet republic (it could even be the town of Georgia, Vermont)? — Lomn | Talk / RfC 22:52, 5 January 2006 (UTC)

[edit] Most efficient gear?

I have only had my driver's license for three-four months now, and only had my own car for about two. When driving uphill at approx. 60 km/h (~40 mph) which gear is the most efficient (as in fuel consumption) and which induces the least wear on the engine of 3rd and 4th, where the engine's RPM is at about 2500 and 1500 respectively?

The reason I'm wondering is that I want to be an efficient driver, using the least amounts of fuel possible when driving, but I don't know which uses more fuel. You would immediately think that having a lower RPM would use less fuel, as the engine has to do fewer rounds, where each round uses fuel, but on the other hand, when the RPM is higher, the engine doesn't have to put in as much fuel per round to keep the car moving, and my car has electronic fuel injection, so when it has no resistance (as when taking the foot off the throttle during downhill travel) it uses very little fuel at all. It's also interesting to know which causes the most wear on the engine, as, although it's not too important, avoiding unnecessary wear is also a good thing.

DarkPhoenix 23:51, 5 January 2006 (UTC)

In practice, in a normal car, you'd either be in third or fourth - third for a steeper hill, fourth for a gentle one. You really shouldn't worry one iota about engine wear, as it is highly unlikely you will ever wear out an engine - really the only dramatic thing that ever happens to most car's engines during a normal lifespan is the timing belt snapping, and only a preventative replacement will make any difference to that. Basing gear selection on efficiency or engine-wear is a bad idea - use the safest gear which gives you the control you need for those circumstances. If you want to be efficient, accelerate moderately, don't drive too fast, and keep your car well maintained and the suspension and tires in good condition. -- Finlay McWalter | Talk 00:14, 6 January 2006 (UTC)
OK, so I know about the accelerate moderately, drive at sensible speeds and keeping my car maintained is the best way. However, disregard that for a second, and just answer the first part of the question with no regard to my reasoning in the second paragraph. I'm not even sure why I added that, as it really doesn't help any. DarkPhoenix 00:38, 6 January 2006 (UTC)
If you want to stay cool by driving with windows open, that air drag contributes to more fuel consumption. Are you better off using the car's air conditioner? Well if your # 1 priority is lowest fuel consumption, then drive with air conditioner off, and windows closed. Me, I drive with windows open in stop and go driving, and airconditioner on when I drive the limited access highways, because my personal comfort is more important to me than preserving fuel consumption.
You also need to keep the vehicle in good running condition. The owner's mannual may suggest an oil change every 7 or 8 thousand miles. But if you do this every 2 or 3 thousand miles, it is a lot better for the long life of the engine. Check into tips like that. What can you do to care for the car that will also translate into long life and low maintenance costs. My personal car has 300,000 miles on it and is 25 years old, and still running fine, because I take good care of it, better than what the owner's manual calls for. My previous personal car went past the ceiling on the odometer (back to zero) several times ... I lost count how many times. User:AlMac|(talk) 01:38, 9 January 2006 (UTC)
In general, running at lower rpms will have lower fuel consumption. -User:Lommer | talk 05:14, 11 January 2006 (UTC)

[edit] January 6

[edit] Weight Loss and Breast Size

My girlfriend recently started a diet and I was wondering: will her breasts get smaller as she loses weight?

Yes, losing weight is likely to reduce breast size. StuRat 03:14, 6 January 2006 (UTC)

[edit] Homepage Traffic

My homepage is already listed on major search engines, but how can i get more people to visit it?

Offer pornography. On a more serious note, you could ask your friends who have web sites to place a link to your page on their pages. Then "repay" them by placing a link for their site on yours. Or if this is a business you could go to message boards for people with an interest in what you are selling and let them know about your site. Or if you have the money for it, advertising. Dismas|(talk) 03:02, 6 January 2006 (UTC)

I was hoping to get a more seriious answer than pornography.

And I gave you one. Ah, yet another person my humor is lost on... Dismas|(talk) 09:31, 9 January 2006 (UTC)

I get more people to visit my Wikipedia userpage by putting a link to it on my TV.com profile and in my signature on the IMDB and GameFAQs message boards, and on IMDB I add,"Click here for free porn." (btw there isn't any) So you could do something similar, maybe that will help (you can leave out the porn bit if you want). Yeltensic42.618 ambition makes you look pretty ugly 14:33, 6 January 2006 (UTC)

If you are offering a genuine service of some sort you may consider placing a link to it from Wikipedia pages dealing with the subject; however, external links are checked often here, and those found to be of little or no use are deleted. TomStar81 01:04, 7 January 2006 (UTC)
Are you just interrested in more traffic? Don't you just want the people who might be interrested to drop by? Just go to internet discussions about the subject of your site and 'drop your name' (ie URL). Unless it's a commercial site, that is. DirkvdM 08:43, 7 January 2006 (UTC)

[edit] Anyone know any good exercises for a twelve yoear old girl to strengthen knee muscles? And make thighs larger?

Hi my daughter is twelve and she has a weak knee problem. And her thighs need to be harder and more in shape. Anyone have any exercise suggestians? She is 5 foot 3. Thanks!

If you've consulted a doctor who diagnosed this problem then the best person to ask would be the doctor. Dismas|(talk) 03:09, 6 January 2006 (UTC)
Deep knee bends come to mind. She can start with one a day and work her way up from there. StuRat 03:09, 6 January 2006 (UTC)
Depending on how weak her legs are, I suggest swimming, starting with floatation assistance, so if she not doing anything, in the water, she not sinkng. I think swimming is a great form of exercise, that not put great strain on us, learn different kinds of swimming that put different stresses on various limbs. Over time, on a regular schedule of using a swimming pool, try to do more laps than on prior visits. User:AlMac|(talk) 06:53, 7 January 2006 (UTC)
Of course, if there's a particular medical issue, see a doctor first. That said, the quickest way to fix the problem would be fairly heavy weightlifting using motions like squats and leg presses. try this url:http://exrx.net/Lists/Directory.html to find a good exercise for the muscles she wants to target, and just make sure the exercise is done properly to prevent injury. I realize a 12 year old girl is not the demographic you traditionally think of powerlifting, but that's the best way to get results. I had weak hip muscles for years and it affected my balance pretty severely, 3 weeks of squats and deadlifts fixed the problem. Pick exercises that make use of dumbbells rather than big barbells, she won't need much weight anyway and dumbbells are easier to manage. --Osbojos 15:54, 13 January 2006 (UTC)
I thought weight training was bad for children.. is that an urban myth? Rhobite 16:25, 13 January 2006 (UTC)
Yes, supposedely it stunts children's growth, but this has no basis in fact. --Osbojos 00:08, 14 January 2006 (UTC)

[edit] Need boobs larger!

This sounds stupid but i want to make by boobs larger and stuff. I am 12 to 13 years old. Is there any method or food or thing that will make my boobs larger. Without getting implants please. Excersise, food? maybe? Yah so help me please. Oh yeah and no crap like wait till they mature!

Well, waiting is the obvious answer. Stuffing your bra works, too. If you can afford them, there are decent push-up bras like the Wonder Bra and falsies that can look very convincing. As far as food goes, breasts are mostly fat, so putting on a lot of weight will increase your breast size, but also your butt, thighs, etc. StuRat 03:06, 6 January 2006 (UTC)
More than this, some help with the right clothes, hairstyle, and cosmetics can completely transform how you look, to a degree that will amaze you and freak out your parents. And you'll discover, when you get older, that the body shapes that boys find attractive vary greatly from boy to boy. Some famous women nearly starve themselves to achieve the "waif look" - that is, be thin with small breasts! It illustrates, however, that women never seem to be happy with the bodies they have. Eat healthily, exercise, and take care of yourself, and your body will thank you now and into the future. --Robert Merkel 03:40, 6 January 2006 (UTC)
Weightlessness causes the body's fluid to redistribute itself and makes breasts fuller and perkier (hmm, maybe the article should mention this). So, study your math and science so you can become an astronaut. —Keenan Pepper 03:46, 6 January 2006 (UTC)
That reminds me of an episode of the Daily Show with a bit about plans for a Girls Gone Wild video made in orbit (the owner said,"We're going to see tits in space!" and the Daily Show correspondent said in a voiceover,"One small step for man, one giant leap backward for mankind.") Yeltensic42.618 ambition makes you look pretty ugly 14:43, 6 January 2006 (UTC)
But anyway that isn't stupid, but Robert Merkel is right, a lot of guys like small boobs, or don't care about the size. Yeltensic42.618 ambition makes you look pretty ugly 14:43, 6 January 2006 (UTC)
So do a lot of girls. Bethefawn 03:01, 10 January 2006 (UTC)

There are also different kinds of shirt/dress styles that can accentuate the positive. Try things with the waistband right below your breasts, or low v-necks. -Del

If you can learn to walk on high heels, it causes your behind to sway in a way that excites males. User:AlMac|(talk) 06:56, 7 January 2006 (UTC)
But not selectively. Which is to say, the ones it excites may not be the ones you want to excite. -- Jmabel | Talk 09:10, 9 January 2006 (UTC)
Huh I've never really noticed that they do that. I wonder how much difference it really makes? Yeltensic42.618 don't panic 17:18, 9 January 2006 (UTC)

[edit] APO addresses

Who is elegible for APO addresses?

See Military mail. Dismas|(talk) 13:57, 6 January 2006 (UTC)

[edit] Address of Sago Baptist Church

I'm trying to find the address of Sago Baptist Church (the one near the mining disaster) but I'm having no luck online. Can anyone help out? Thanks. Rampart 04:05, 6 January 2006 (UTC)

[edit] Which group deposited fake CDs on store shelves?

What is the program where people were purposely bringing fake CDs into music stores and leaving them on the shelves with a note? I ran into this about 2 or 3 years ago, it was a political protest of some type. People were making their own CDs, perhaps live recordings, and then dropping them on the shelves of stores so people would pick them up by mistake. They figured the clerk would see it had no tag and give it away. Was it copies of DeCSS or something similar? Were they just trying to promote a specific free music recording? Anyone remember? I really didn't know how/where to ask this question so I'm asking here. Thanks in advance. J. Straub 04:10, 6 January 2006 (UTC)

  • I don't know what group was behind the specific incident, but in general this is a tactic of culture jamming; planting free stuff in a place of commerce is supposed to be a subversion of consumerism.--Pharos 04:53, 7 January 2006 (UTC)

[edit] Reverse Phone Look Up

How Do I Do A Reverse Phone Look Up?

Google seems to be able to find at least listed phone numbers (just enter the number). -- Rick Block (talk) 05:53, 6 January 2006 (UTC)
Whitepages.com can also do that, although they have a few pop up ads to get past if you don't have a blocker. Dismas|(talk) 13:52, 6 January 2006 (UTC)
You didn't specify what country you are in. In Hungary for example, you can do it online from a webpage [14], by phone calling 198, and probably also with the CD phonebook. – b_jonas 16:36, 8 January 2006 (UTC)

[edit] wellcome

hi thanks for help but how could i find any soccer club in western samoan and american samoa??

  • For the Independent State of Samoa (no longer commonly known as Western Samoa), see the Soccer Samoa web site for contact information. The American Samoa Football Association doesn't have a web site, but they can be contacted by e-mail; the address can be found on their page on the FIFA web site. --Metropolitan90 02:31, 7 January 2006 (UTC)

[edit] Transmission gears revisited - Variomatic / CVT

The question above about the most efficient gear made me think about the variomatic. Being Dutch, I first learned about the variomatic. Only later I learned about other automatic gears and in comparison I thought the idea was really silly; to have a sort of handgear that shifts automatically. Isn't a variomatic much more logical and efficient? You're always in precisely the right gear. So why did it disappear? Apparently they were banned from formula 1 racing because they gave an 'unfair advantage'. What the fuck? And in the backward racing contests that were held in the Netherlands a while back they were in their own class because the gears work in reverse as well (another 'unfair advantage'). I now read in the article that a new version is continuously variable transmission but that is in use in just a handful of cars (given the total amount of different car brands and makes). Why don't all cars have this? The only real disadvantage that is mentioned in the article is that it can only be used in lighter cars. But it's also used in Rovers and Volvo's, not really light cars. The other, perceived, disadvantage is actually an advantage (smoother operation). So isn't this a much more efficient transmission? And how does it perform when going up hill (considering the torque problem)? DirkvdM 09:41, 6 January 2006 (UTC)

  1. Yes
  2. There're a fair few examples of better technology losing out to another product that just appeared more appealing to the publi perception, Betamax being the classic example. In this case, it's for the same reason that the figures on speedometers go beyond what the car is capable of performing - people want to feel like they have a powerful car. The old variomatic system didnt provide the jerks people associated with more powerful cars.
  3. They were likely banned for the same reason most automatic systems were banned in formula one. People want to watch humans racing, not computers, and the FIA complied.
  4. Car manufacturers are wary of stepping out of line to change industry standards to a system most people haven't heard of and a large number wouldn't care for, for fear of profit-loss (aside from Japanese manufacturers, most companies don't turn out large profits).
  5. Yes, it is.
  6. The system performs fairly well on gentler slopes, but it does struggle with the larger gradients. The drive-belt also wears out a lot faster.

Hope that helps GeeJo (t) (c) • 13:32, 6 January 2006 (UTC)

Now I wish I had numbered my questions :) . But if it's a more efficient gear then won't it save fuel and wouldn't that be a strong sales argument? Maybe not so much in the US, but in Europe fuel costs 3 to 4 times as much (don't know about elsewhere). Then again, in Europe handgears are much more popular than automatic gears, probably for the same reason as answer 2. I suppose the market tools (ie taxes) don't work here because of the status symbolism of cars. Maybe tougher laws would be in order. But then many wouldn't vote for a party that promotes that. Market doesn't work, democracy doesn't work. Is there a third option? DirkvdM 08:55, 7 January 2006 (UTC)

[edit] seniority

what are the streghts, weaknesses and oppurtunities in seniority?

You need to provide some sort of context. Seniority can mean being older or superior in station. for the former, see Ageing. For the latter, Seniority. GeeJo (t) (c) • 13:16, 6 January 2006 (UTC)

[edit] Modern chariot racing

Isn't there a modern sport where jockeys drive horses from tiny chariot-like vehicles behind the animals? I can't for the life of me think of the name of the sport. Thanks! — BrianSmithson 14:51, 6 January 2006 (UTC)

Is Harness racing perhaps what you're thinking of? --BluePlatypus 15:43, 6 January 2006 (UTC)
That's the one; thanks. — BrianSmithson 16:18, 6 January 2006 (UTC)

[edit] Production of Coke Cans

How are coke cans produced? T

'Tis explained in the article Aluminium can. --Canley 17:49, 6 January 2006 (UTC)

[edit] word trouble

What's the word for when you want to honor a god but you don't practice their religion? Or when you do practice their religion? Like a goddess at a spring? -Del

Tribute? Of course, if the people around who do practice the religion know that you don't the word may be 'mockery' or 'blasphemy'.Brian Schlosser42 18:00, 6 January 2006 (UTC)
But like, if you respect other's religions and you want to show honor by offering something, and you do it the same as the people who do... Thank you for 'tribute'. DuctapeDaredevil 18:20, 6 January 2006 (UTC)(Just realized that the block on logins is off...)
I think Deitism is the honor of a God without formal religious practice. And when you do...well, you answered your own question there. --JB Adder | Talk 23:19, 10 January 2006 (UTC)

[edit] Decimal clock

Decimal system rocks
Decimal system rocks

Where can I buy a clock with a decimal clockface, like the one on the right? Ebay doesn't have it. deeptrivia (talk) 17:27, 6 January 2006 (UTC)

It shouldn't be too hard to make. The mechanism is the same, right? Just get a 12-hour clock and paint the decimal markings on the face. —Keenan Pepper 17:59, 6 January 2006 (UTC)
It can't be the same mechanism, can it? The decimal clock had 10 hours with 100 minutes per hour and 100 seconds per minute, right? So the hour hand made 1 revolution per day, the minute hand makes 10, and the second hand makes 1000 as opposed to a 12 hour clock where the hour hand makes 2 revolutions, the minute hand 24, and the second hand makes 1440. That would require a whole different set of gears, wouldn't it? Brian Schlosser42 18:13, 6 January 2006 (UTC)
Right... Don't know what I was thinking. =P —Keenan Pepper 18:15, 6 January 2006 (UTC)
I've seen decimal clocks that use just one hand. -Tim Rhymeless (Er...let's shimmy) 01:53, 7 January 2006 (UTC)
Which is probably simply Keenan's method. DirkvdM 08:58, 7 January 2006 (UTC)
Except it has to run at half the speed. (1 revolution = 1 day.) deeptrivia (talk) 01:20, 8 January 2006 (UTC)
Right, so what I said really made no sense at all. Brain fart. —Keenan Pepper 03:28, 8 January 2006 (UTC)

Here and there are two, but they're already sold :-) Or maybe you were looking for something like [www.cafepress.com/cp/prod.aspx?p=trancewave.3466246 this]? Or you could build one yourself... Finally, here's the one from Metropolis. Lupo 20:58, 8 January 2006 (UTC)

Wow..the cafepress one is cool..i also have coupons to use! Thanks!! deeptrivia (talk) 22:50, 8 January 2006 (UTC)

[edit] Why are Left-wingers pro-Palestine and Right-wingers pro-Israel?

Thank you,

--anon 17:34, 6 January 2006 (UTC).

I think that that's kind of a broad generalization. Speaking as a left-wing American Democrat, I support both the state of Isreal and a potential Palestinian state. Brian Schlosser42 18:05, 6 January 2006 (UTC)
That is also a broad generalization, since most people in the pro-Palestinian camp also recognize Israel. --BluePlatypus 19:10, 6 January 2006 (UTC)
Because Israel is strong and Palestine is weak. Left-wingers support the underdog, right-wingers support the top-dog. Back in the 60s and 70s, when it was Israel v. the Arab states rather than Israel v. Palestinians, left-wing support for Israel (being the underdog) was much stronger. Mark1 19:26, 6 January 2006 (UTC)
There's also some cold war history - Israel was an ally in the cold war, while there were socialist groups on the Palestinian side, and remains a military ally of the US. Also there's the religion-politics issue - some Christian groups believe that the rebuilding of the temple and reestablisment of the state of Israel are requirements for the Rapture, so supporting Israel may hasten the endtimes. These groups also tend to support right-wing politicians. Guettarda 19:33, 6 January 2006 (UTC)
Left-wingers tend to be idealists, thinking all people should be treated equally, including terrorists. They view them as poor, confused vicitms of society, who are not to blame for their actions. Right-wingers, on the other hand, see them as evil bastards who all should be killed. Hence left-wingers tend to support whichever side is using terrorists and right-wingers support the other side. StuRat 19:36, 6 January 2006 (UTC)
StuRat, are you trying to start a flamewar? Anyway, I'm one leftwinger who sympathizes with neither side. It's nice that Israel is a democracy, but it should be treated as an embarrassment to American Jews the way it is now. They're all elbows, and while I don't want Israel to be wiped out I don't think the US should be as gung-ho to support them as they are. If anything the Palestinians living on Israeli soil should be offered full Israeli citizenship. I don't support the Palestinians either though -- I don't support terrorism. Haikupoet 19:57, 6 January 2006 (UTC)
I think Isreal is doing the best they can with building a wall and unilaterally withdrawing from Gaza. They can't negotiate with the Palestinians, since any Palestinian who negotiates is seen as "week". A sizable portion of Palestinians want all Isrealis dead, and you can't negotiate with that, anyway. StuRat 20:30, 6 January 2006 (UTC)
More oversimplified (and flamebait) nonsense. What about the Israeli terrorists such as Irgun and Lehi? Viewing one side as "terrorists" is not an informed and balanced viewpoint of the conflict. Besides which, it isn't a left-vs-right issue anyway: It's the American right-wing which is strongly pro-Israel. The right-wing parties in the rest of the democratic world are not much bigger supporters of Israel than the left-wing ones. Nor was right-or-left wing US policy pro-Israel the way it is today until the last 30 years. (post 6-day war.) --BluePlatypus 22:25, 6 January 2006 (UTC)
When one side has overwhelmingly more terrorists than the other, including state support for suicide bombers, the right-wingers take the side with the fewer terrorists, while the left-wingers point to one or two counterexamples and say the two are "morally equivalent". Using such logic, the US may be judged to be morally equivalent to al Queada, since the US has had some domestic terrorists, such as in the Oklahoma City bombing. StuRat 01:07, 7 January 2006 (UTC)
One or two counterexamples? Let's talk totals. Since Sept 2000, 123 Israeli and 704 Palestinian children have ben killed. There are overwhelmingly more Palestinian civilian casualties (not only among children). I don't believe in eye-for-an-eye mentality. Both sides share in the blame. But the fact that you apparently aren't prepared to accept that Israel has at least equal blame here either means that you are uninformed or devoid of basic compassion. Or are you really prepared to make the argument that Israeli children are "more innocent" than Palestinian ones? --BluePlatypus 01:39, 7 January 2006 (UTC)
The Palestinian children are more stupid perhaps, as when they throw stones at tanks, intermixed with armed gunmen firing at the tanks, instead of taking cover. Confronting armed troops instead of doing what they say results in most of those casualties, not suicide bombers against Palestinians. And yes, I think somebody throwing a stone is more guilty of inciting violence than somebody eating pizza at a restaurant. StuRat 01:44, 7 January 2006 (UTC)
An interesting article: [15] --Fangz 00:12, 7 January 2006 (UTC)
This is indeed an interesting question. As other comments have pointed out, it is not as simple as left vs. right. In the U.S., few people in the political mainstream are anti-Israel to the extent that many people in Europe are. But even within countries, there is a clear right-left division on the Israel issue. In America, publications like The Progressive and The Nation are pro-Palestinian, while much of the Christian Right is more Zionist than the Israelis themselves. In Norway, the conservative Progress Party is pro-Israel, while the Socialist Left is anti-Israel. You can see the same trends in Canada (Stockwell Day vs. Svend Robinson) or Britain (David Cameron vs. George Galloway).
I think Mark1 puts it pretty well. The Palestinians have successfully marketed themselves as the underdog. In the 1940s, when the fighting was seen as the Jews against the Arabs and the British Empire, the Left was very much in favor of Zionism. The recasting of the fight as Israelis vs. Palestinians switches David and Goliath. Now to some people, it's big, bad Israel against a poor, oppressed group. Of course, in actuality, the actors are still the same; only the names have changed.
StuRat also has a point about the way leftists see the world. There's a conservative taunt that when a liberal sees a mugging victim lying on the ground bleeding, the liberal says, "Whoever did this must need help!" There's a tendency among the Left to believe that if someone is resorting to crime or terror, he must be a victim of persecution. Thus, when a leftist sees an act of terrorism, he or she is likely to seek the so-called root causes and sympathize with the terrorists' people, if not the act of terrorism itself.
A corollary to this is the tendency of the Western Left to always side against the West in any skirmish between it and other peoples. Leftists cannot go back in time and stop their own country's offenses against the indigenous peoples of the world (African slavery, Indian wars, etc.), so they take out their frustration on American foreign policy and on Israel. The latter country can be perceived as an old-fashioned European colony carved out of land that should belong to a non-European people. Of course, the situation is far more complicated than that -- most Israeli Jews trace at least part of their immediate ancestry to the Muslim world, not to Europe, and they were more likely to come to Israel as refugees than as colonizers. But the Left doesn't have a real European colony (like the Belgian Congo) in existence nowadays to kick around instead.
The colonialism issue, real or imagined, is probably why leftists will focus on the human rights record of Israel rather than on the far worse records of countries like China, Russia, Burma and just about all of the Arab world.
I don't want to launch a flame war here, but I have to say that the Left's antipathy toward Israel does make for some strange bedfellows. I mean, Israel might not be the world's most progressive country on issues like women's rights or gay rights. But if I were someone like Svend Robinson -- an irreligious, gay social liberal -- I would think I'd feel much more at home in Tel-Aviv than in Ramallah. -- 70.27.57.22 03:32, 7 January 2006 (UTC)
Another point to consider that "pro-Israel" and "pro-Palestinian" are like "anti-American" as highly misleading terms. Just because one might oppose the actions of the present Israeli government doesn't make you "anti-Israel" any more than disliking the current US President makes you anti-American. Calling somebody "anti country X" is a useful debating tactic but hardly realistic when often there are large minorities in the country concerned who feel the same way. --Robert Merkel 06:32, 7 January 2006 (UTC)
I would think you can often distinquish between the two cases, such as protesters yelling "Down with Bush !" versus "Death to America !". StuRat 07:37, 7 January 2006 (UTC)
Also, anti-Israel doesn't necessarily mean pro-Palestine.
As someone who on average leans towards the left (though I'm certainly not leftwing out of principle), let me give my view, which, according to above reasoning, is more right-wing. At first, Israel was a bad thing because it robbed Palestinians of their land. Now, however, most Israelis are born in Israel and have as much right to live there as the Palestinians had (notice the past tense). The solution used to be simple, now I don't see one anymore and side with anyone who doesn't use violence (ie neither) or is the victim (ie both).

Also, note that, apart from the title, Mark1 and me, no-one speaks of Palestine, but in stead of Palestinians. Which can be seen a political statement in itself. DirkvdM 09:25, 7 January 2006 (UTC)

Actually, come to think of it, when I was clearly anti-Israel I was pretty right-wing (I voted VVD then). I now blame that on teenage ignorance. :) But I've always remained a liberal in both the leftwing and rightwing sense of the word. DirkvdM 11:34, 7 January 2006 (UTC)


The Right is usually concerned with dealing with direct symptoms of social problems. When the worker complains of labour conditions, you fire him. When oil starts to run out, you put up prices, or make deals with dodgy people. When crime puts your country above others, you build more jails. When the continuing conflict claims more casualties, you escalate it.
The Left is opposed to Israel's policies in the conflict, not to Israel itself. It's opposed, because the left percieves the actions has a continuous disregard of the lessons of history and which cannot create a stable and long term situation in the area. The left believes that it is possible to understand actions without justifying it. And the left believes that this can be done as well as fighting the symptoms, not 'instead' as some people think. The left does not believe that a conflict can be divided into two obvious sides, and that you need to support one, or the other.
And the left are the only people tackling and campaigning against human rights abuses in anywhere near a fair way. Amnesty International, Human Rights Watch etc are all leftist organisations. Who's actually doing the deals with China these days? Are they the leftists?--Fangz 15:01, 7 January 2006 (UTC)
The only policy Israel could have which might stop suicide bombers would be if they all left Israel and gave the country to the Palestinians. I don't think they see that as much of an option. StuRat 16:51, 7 January 2006 (UTC)
Also, left wingers are typically more optimistic about humanity, and the eventual triumph of reason etc.--Fangz 19:38, 8 January 2006 (UTC) +

I agree with what DirkvdM said up there about Israel and the Palestinians. Also, I think what's incredibly stupid and dangerous about both sides is using religion to justify that they should live there, especially when the land they're fighting over has no other real purpose. It would make a lot more sense for one side to just have their state somewhere else in the Middle East, it's not as if Israel is the only country there. Yeltensic42.618 ambition makes you look pretty ugly 22:38, 7 January 2006 (UTC)

Religion is rarely the real reason for wars. It's a war between peoples whose can most easily be distinguished through religion. And religion is also a way to get people to do weird stuff (with the promise of a reward in the afterlife). Likewise, in Ireland it is/was not about catholics and protestants but about Irish and English. And I believe even the crusades were not about religion but about encroaching eastern culture. DirkvdM 08:34, 8 January 2006 (UTC)
An interesting presentation about what exactly "kills" Palestinian children: [16] deeptrivia (talk) 09:08, 8 January 2006 (UTC)


[edit] Pressure treated wood.

I plan to make several picnic tables using Pressure Treated Wood. Are there any special precautions I need to take in painting this wood? Thanks, WSC

Pressure treated wood contains low levels of toxic materials, including arsenic. In general, that shouldn't be a problem, but if you're planning on making tables that people will be eating off of, the arsenic could leach into the food and the utensils. User:Zoe|(talk) 21:46, 6 January 2006 (UTC)
Take a look at this article and be sure that you don't use CCA treated lumber for your table. --hydnjo talk 02:12, 7 January 2006 (UTC)
No pressure-treated wood is toxic these days. However, I would always seal the wood to prevent splinters. A very bad thing for picnic tables. --Zeizmic 15:11, 7 January 2006 (UTC)
Pressure-treated wood is wet. It needs to dry and/or be sealed before paining. See [17]. Also note that you need to use stainless steel or zinc coated nails, bolts and screws when building with pressure treated wood to prevent oxidation reactions (chemical rusting). Rmhermen 17:43, 9 January 2006 (UTC)
"Love is a many-splendored thing...or, in the case of Pinocchio, a many-splintered thing." StuRat 16:44, 7 January 2006 (UTC)

[edit] Aerial Dumping

Do or have airplanes ever dumped wastes directly from the lavatory? There most be holding tanks, but do they ever dump them while in-flight?

Yes, but not intentionally. I don't think they have a remote control opening device which would allow them to do so, even if they wanted to. However, the drain which is normally used to empty the tanks when on the ground sometimes leaks, and at least one person found a "blue ice" meteor smashed thru their roof. The "blue ice" is the frozen disinfectant fluid used on airplanes.StuRat 19:26, 6 January 2006 (UTC)
Blue ice was once the cause of death in a episode of one of the CSI series. _ Mgm|(talk) 11:36, 8 January 2006 (UTC)
So the sucking noise is not the poo being sucked out of the airplane and that hole some planes have in the rear isn't a poophole? One is never to young to learn :) . DirkvdM 09:32, 7 January 2006 (UTC)
My favourite was the old British trains, and the sign "Do not flush while at a station". When you flushed you were staring at the tracks! --Zeizmic 13:38, 7 January 2006 (UTC)
That's pretty gross, alright, but at least it wasn't falling on anybody's head (except maybe a worm between the tracks). I sure would hate to have to do track maintenance on those tracks, though. StuRat 16:42, 7 January 2006 (UTC) +
Scottish comedian Billy Connolly has a famous joke wherein he postulates the "jobbie wheecher", a catapult-like device which is used for ejecting toilet material from aircraft. Futher, he warns of the danger of hapless passengers becoming entangled with this device and themselves being "wheeched" out of the plane. -- Finlay McWalter | Talk 16:47, 7 January 2006 (UTC)

[edit] sport

question from school. what do the letters S.A.F. stand for?

Try our article SAF; there are many possibilities. Unfortunately, none has much at all to do with sport. BrianSmithson 21:33, 6 January 2006 (UTC)
Here's a wild guess: Standard Athletic Field or maybe Sports/Athletic Field. StuRat 22:12, 6 January 2006 (UTC)
South Asian Federation (SAF) Games? DirkvdM 09:35, 7 January 2006 (UTC)
While I'm much too lazy to find the answer for you, I can offer [18] - they have yet to fail me in my time of need. Cernen 06:38, 9 January 2006 (UTC)

[edit] Can phone numbers be sold?

I have heard of cases where companies have bought a phone number from a private party because they wanted the number. Their company's name could be spelled out with the numbers or some such thing. This was in the U.S. I don't know about the legality or possibility of it in other countries. Dismas|(talk) 20:40, 6 January 2006 (UTC)

In Japan it's possible, and in fact is very common among the ex-pat population. Just ask NTT. Givnan 08:28, 7 January 2006 (UTC)

[edit] dodge neon 1998

What is the size of the mounting nut for the driver side spindle on a 1998 dodge neon?

You might be better off asking this question in one of the internet forums specifically dedicated to the Neon. Do a google search for "dodge neon forum" and you'll find plenty of places where Neon enthusiasts discuss their car. Alternatively, you could purchase a service manual like this one and give it a try. --Robert Merkel 06:22, 7 January 2006 (UTC)

[edit] What is the phone number

{formatting of this question needs fixing & User:AlMac|(talk) trying to do so)


- + - what is the phone number of the jagex guy andrew gower?--67.135.148.79 22:21, 6 January 2006 (UTC)nebyou + - *It's quite uncommon to be able to contact the biggest boss of a company by phone directly. However, Jagex's official site does list multiple email address you can use to contact them, depending on the issue. - Mgm|(talk) 11:58, 8 January 2006 (UTC) + - +

[edit] January 7

{formatting of this question needs fixing & User:AlMac|(talk) trying to do so)

- +

[edit] What are some of the stranger looking animals?

Things like aarvarks, tanuki, owls, etc... Could anyone inform me of strange-looking animals, particularly mammals?

Platypus and kangaroo - Akamad 00:55, 7 January 2006 (UTC)
Star-nosed Mole Flea110 01:00, 7 January 2006 (UTC)
Hey! Platypuses look completely normal. From the platypus-perspective of course. It's the rest who look funny. --BluePlatypus 01:59, 7 January 2006 (UTC)
Yes, there was a Star Trek: The Next Generation episode where the aliens referred to humans as "ugly bags of mostly water". StuRat 02:29, 7 January 2006 (UTC)
Naked Mole Rat -83.129.21.36 02:49, 7 January 2006 (UTC)
Puffer fish, sloth, Anglerfish, Frill-necked Lizard, Kiwi. And then there's a fish named somehing like caelocanthus (what is that again?). And a little night creature with huge eyes and a long thin finger. And that mouse with an ear on its back. And ehm, these two? And of course giraffes look pretty funny, but we're too used to them. DirkvdM 09:57, 7 January 2006 (UTC)
Coelacanth. And it isn't that weird. DuctapeDaredevil 01:32, 8 January 2006 (UTC)
The Elephant Nose fish is a strange looking fish (Gnathonemus Petersi) Dematthew 12:05, 7 January 2006
Some of these mammals are rather odd looking. --George 02:43, 8 January 2006 (UTC)
The ocean, especially deep down, is full of strange looking creatures (like this, this, or these), not to forget these or these. As for strange looking mammals, other than the ones already mentioned, these are pretty strange looking, as are these, these (or these), these, (these are more cute than strange), and let's not forget these. What about these or these? Other strange non-mammals include these, these, and of course, this. And that's not even the tip of the iceberg; there are the invertebrates, which in my opinion are much stranger in many was than mammals. I mean, how about this, this/this, or this? Or this? What about this or this? And there are hundreds more of unusual and beautiful creatures like these. The motto is, we are blessed to live on an earth so diverse, mysterious, and often majestic. СПУТНИКССС Р 03:41, 8 January 2006 (UTC)
DirkvdM is on the right path, any animal can look odd or not. Barring human intervention, animals tend to adapt to their environment, so really they only look odd because you are seeing them out of place. To a certain extent it can be said that humans are odd looking based on the body modifications and clothing that we choose. CambridgeBayWeather (Talk) 07:07, 8 January 2006 (UTC)
here's one vote for the okapi, a relative of the giraffe and a mammal I have a fondness for. They seem like such peaceful, singular animals. Mitchell k dwyer 08:06, 8 January 2006 (UTC)
Silly me, I forgot about my own photographs. Especially that big bee (a few cm long!) and the next one, with the flag-legs that did sort of leg-stretch exercises, probably to attract members of the opposite sex.
And, along the lines of the giraffe, we're used to elephants, but an elephant's trunk is pretty weird isn't it? Suppose we knew of no elephants and someone would tell us about this animal that is huge and round with a nose that is 2 meters long, which the animal uses as a hand to bring food to it's mouth and suck up water to use as a shower and which they use when walking in line by holding the other's puny tail. Yeah right! You told us about the platypus and that was weird, but how can you expect anyone to believe this? DirkvdM 09:03, 8 January 2006 (UTC)
  • It all depends on your perception of odd. But I think manatees count... - Mgm|(talk) 12:00, 8 January 2006 (UTC)

[edit] Regarding storyline in snes game "Secret of Mana"

formatting of this question needs fixing & User:AlMac|(talk) trying to do so) I'm wondering if when you enter "gaias navel" the scene where the girl doesn't want to go in and ditches the guy there, does that have to happen? or is there a different path that you're supposed to go on? I made a bet with some one about this but I can't seem to find the necessary information on walkthroughs of the game and other such documents. Flea110 01:21, 7 January 2006 (UTC)

Does this answer your question? Gdr 16:05, 7 January 2006 (UTC)
I tried your link, but it appeared to be broken somehow. I actually managed to find out the answer on my own. It would seem that I need to try to do more research on my own before asking here (because I tend to find the answers on my own shortly after asking). Thanks for replying though. Flea110 04:54, 8 January 2006 (UTC)

Yes, it seems GameFAQs don't like people reading their FAQs without seeing the ads... Gdr 15:06, 8 January 2006 (UTC)

[edit] pandas

i am douing a panda report and i need help i need to find out.... what is the pandas physical appearance?

Giant Panda gives a good description and it even has a picture. --Ali K 04:13, 7 January 2006 (UTC)
Also, there are other pandas, like the red panda. StuRat 11:13, 9 January 2006 (UTC)

[edit] information about UEFA Cup

I am writing to ask that how many goals Maradona had made for Napoli in the Tournament of UEFA Cup of 1988-89, as the runner-up finally?

[edit] Cargo and Courier Services

Overall which is shipping service is best: UPS DHL Fedex (all services)

I really want to know the truth about this issue.

How do you define "best" ? Cheapest ? Most locations ? Highest on-time delivery rate ? Friendliest ? StuRat 11:28, 8 January 2006 (UTC)

[edit] unreported U.S. military deaths in Iraq

What are the total US military deaths in Iraq that includes not only killed in action but those who died after being evacuated? And also non-combatant deaths.

These two sources (http://icasualties.org/oif/ and http://www.antiwar.com/casualties/) give it as 2193 (with 2189 confirmed by DoD). I imagine this includes non-combatants and those killed after being evacuated because both of those sites appear to be anti-war, so I imagine they would want to make the numbers look as bad as possible. - Akamad 14:14, 7 January 2006 (UTC)

[edit] How much is that Bishy in the window?

CVG question, project members and Zelda fans encouraged to answer, people who think Zelda is a ripoff of Secret of Mana need not apply. (And you're wholly wrong, because Zelda came out BEFORE SoM. HA!)

Zelda = Sheik. This much I know. And, having read the section on "Alternate Egos of Princess Zelda," I have discovered (besides the fact that I have enough pictures of this sexy man/womanbeast to fill a sperm bank full of bishounen-style pictures of a fake male) that Sheik wears a form fitting blue suit of sorts.

K. Here's the question. What the hell is it called, and any speculation as to what material it might be? See, thing is, I wouldn't be nearly so curious if it weren't for the fact that Sheik is really quite the looker. Also, recently I bought a gamecube, and with it, SSB Melee, and discovered that all of the bishounen characters are anatomically correct. (Doubters, please perform Ganondorf's pose move, and as he turns to face the camera, examine his crotch. Thank you.)

So...yeah. What's the name for the kind of outfit Sheik is wearing, and what kind of material do you think it might be. Cernen 12:11, 7 January 2006 (UTC)

I reckon it's made of 100% genuine polygons. Gdr 16:02, 7 January 2006 (UTC)
Ha ha ha...this is a serious question, though. I'm writing a short story. This almost puzzles me as much as why, when tunics are generally something a woman wears, Link has three in various colors. (Feel free to answer that one if you want, too...) Cernen 10:03, 8 January 2006 (UTC)
In ancient times men wore tunics, togas, etc., too. Pants were a later invention, as they require individual tailoring, while tunics are one-size-fits-all.. StuRat 11:21, 8 January 2006 (UTC)
Ah. That's fallen out of use since then, I suppose? Cernen 06:34, 9 January 2006 (UTC)
What's fallen out of use ? Tunics for men ? Sure. Pants really are better, especially when one has curious dogs at ones feet or "jack frost nipping at your, um, nose". And since automated production methods have been adopted, they can be mass produced cheaply enough for everyone to afford them. StuRat 11:09, 9 January 2006 (UTC)
Another thing, related to Jack Frost, one geographical variation in ancient times was that tunics and togas were popular in southern Europe and pants were popular in northern Europe. Yeltensic42.618 don't panic 17:25, 9 January 2006 (UTC)

[edit] Easter in the UK

(section title added by Smurrayinchester)

how do british celebrate easter?

We celebrate Easter in a similar way to America, with Easter eggs (although generally not the Easter bunny). Some people go to church to celebrate, some don't. The only difference is that at the start of Lent, on Shrove Tuesday, us Brits tend to eat pancakes instead of normal food (see Pancake Day). smurrayinchester(User), (Talk) 14:08, 7 January 2006 (UTC)
And we have a four day holiday, usually a good time for house cleaning and painting. Easter Sunday is the only day of the year when most shops are legally required to be closed. -- Arwel (talk) 15:30, 7 January 2006 (UTC)
See also Simnel cake and Paschal Lamb (which sadly redirects to some theological thing rather than talking about a nice roast leg of lamb. adamsan 16:22, 7 January 2006 (UTC)

[edit] Post Office Promotional Materials

I saw a San Marino post office promtional package today at a friend's home. It contains a photograph of two postage stamps and a four-language brouchure for that set of stamps and a large official envelope. These promtional materials were sent to stamp collectors and dealers in the 1980s. How do I call these promtional packages? How do I find these things? Do post offices all over the world publish such materials today? -- Toytoy 13:17, 7 January 2006 (UTC)

Most do, these days - I get them from Iceland, Norway, Denmark, the Faeroes, and Liechtenstein, and used to get them from Ireland and the UK too. I just call them brochures or flyers. Basically you just have to open an account with the country's Philatelic Bureau, and these sort of things will flood through your mailbox. -- Arwel (talk) 15:27, 7 January 2006 (UTC)
Do they have a name? Do they have an article? Do they have a market? Do they have a catalog? Is there a site on the Internet that displays these flyers? -- Toytoy 23:05, 7 January 2006 (UTC)

[edit] CE

I find the use of CE (common era) offensive as it is what it is...AD Why must you be "religiously neutral". Everyone for all these centuries has called it what it is. I will refer to it as 'common error" if I ever use your encyclopedia again. Thank you.

Does this really belong in the Reference Desk? Please see Wikipedia:Neutral point of view. Elle vécut heureusement toujours dorénavant (Be eudaimonic!) 14:06, 7 January 2006 (UTC)
Personally, I find that CE pisses me off. If you have a problem with thhe date system being based on the birth of a holy man, why not...i don't know...use a DIFFERENT one? It's the same thing with a different name! And it looks ugly! --Phroziac . o º O (???? chocolate!) 14:07, 7 January 2006 (UTC)
See Common Era for arguments both ways. Personally, I feel that if the entire world, not just the Christian world, is going to use a system, it might as well be secular, but it doesn't matter. After all, Jesus was most probably not born in year 1 AD/CE, but somewhere around 5-3 BC/BCE. Of course, if you really hate it, it can also mean "Christian Era". smurrayinchester(User), (Talk) 14:14, 7 January 2006 (UTC)
It's not secular if it's just a renamed religous system. I'm all for a secular system. But not Common Era. --Phroziac . o º O (???? chocolate!) 14:56, 7 January 2006 (UTC)

The most important thing is that everyone use the same system, so we don't need to find some way to convert dates between systems. What someone chooses to call the system really doesn't much matter. If you want to call it AD, please continue to do so. If a non-Christian is offended by that and wants to call it CE, let them have their way, too. I would actually prefer that it be based on some nuetral secular event, say the largest eruption of Krakatoa, but this would require worldwide agreement and lots of conversion at this point, so let's just stick with what we have. StuRat 16:30, 7 January 2006 (UTC)

Then what does a PC BC stand for? --Zeizmic 19:18, 7 January 2006 (UTC)

The PC term is BCE (Before Common Era) deeptrivia (talk)

I fully agree with Phroziac. It's the same thing by a different name. So if we continue using the same thing why give it a differnt name? That's just confusing. It's like the recent change in the Dutch language that exchanges one illogical set of rules for another one. But this is worse, because it's the same rule (which is as (il)logical as any other would be). And the Common Era article starts by pointing out that it can also be read as Christian Era. So we're back where we started. Before I encountered this here (I've never seen it used aywhere else) I never thought about what 'AD' stood for (although I was aware of it). Now I'm irritated everytime I see a date (well, that's an exaggeration).
A rule I often follow is that if you want to change something, the more traditional it is, the stronger your arguments have to be. Well, tradition is long and strong here and I don't see a single argument for the change. All that is achieved is that people get confused. I still do, even though I know about it (which most people won't). A change that would make sense would be to introduce a year zero, in accordance with all other measurements. Or make time measurement decimal (10 hours per day, 100 minutes per hour, that sort of thing). But that's a different story. DirkvdM 09:26, 8 January 2006 (UTC)
I do like the idea of going to decimal time, which has been tried occasionally, such as after the French Revolution, but never really caught on. I would also like to stop the silly use of time zones and daylight savings time and have everyone go to Universal Coordinated Time. It really is the same time everywhere, as measured from the Big Bang or creation of the universe by your favorite diety, but we pretend it is different times to make the Sun rise at approximately the same time all over the world (plus or minus about 3 hours, which hardly seems worth the effort !). StuRat 09:50, 8 January 2006 (UTC)
Apparently you don't do much reading, DirkdvdM. The terms "CE" and "BCE" have been in general use for about 20 years and have achieved wide acceptance throughout the English-speaking world. That doesn't happen overnight. JackofOz 09:34, 8 January 2006 (UTC)
  • Well, Dirk's not the only one. I never came across it before it cropped up at Wikipedia either. What really ticks me off about the issue is how it pretty much still refers to the same year and event. I can't see how calling it something different makes it any more neutral in that regard. - Mgm|(talk) 12:04, 8 January 2006 (UTC)
    • Dirk and mgm don't live in the English-speaking world, it might be that it isn't commonly used in the Netherlands. Yeltensic42.618 don't panic 17:35, 9 January 2006 (UTC)
It's like the diff between "Merry Christmas" and "Happy Holidays", if you know you're addressing a Christian, then "Merry Christmas" is OK, but to be safe around people you aren't sure of, stick with "Happy Holidays". Of course, if one encounters a Grinch like me, one may well find a candy cane inserted in a most inconvenient location, regardless of the seasonal greeting used. StuRat 11:03, 9 January 2006 (UTC)
Another point: my (rather extensive) English-Dutch dictionary does not list CE or BCE. And actually, I do do a lot of reading, and often in English (my reasoning being that I already know Dutch, so if I get my info from English texts I learn that language better in the process). And if I come across something new I look it up, of course. But if the dictionary doesn't list it I'll assume it's not important. So maybe I have come across it once or twice and decided it wasn't worth remembering. DirkvdM 09:30, 9 January 2006 (UTC)
When I studied History at school, my textbooks used BC and AD, despite the fact that Indian textbooks are known for their PC-ness. Maybe now they use BCE and CE. deeptrivia (talk) 04:05, 10 January 2006 (UTC)
That PC again. Do you mean a computer? What does that have to do with it? DirkvdM 09:51, 10 January 2006 (UTC)
It's political correctness. Yeltensic42.618 don't panic 15:13, 11 January 2006 (UTC)

[edit] Wine longevity

How long will a good wine last when kept at room temperature?

In an unopened bottle, probably years, though the wine may suffer. In a glass, nasty by tomorrow. An unsealed bottle will suffer by tomorrow, though a robust red may be drinkable for a few days. In a resealed bottle, could keep a few days, depends on the temperature of your room, and the wine: some are more forgiving than others. My kitchen, at around 8 degrees centigrade in winter, is a good place to stand wine. Houses at 28 degrees will cook it quickly. Several techniques exist for stretching a resealed bottle to a couple of weeks. Sweet wines keep better, and fortified ones keep excellently. Notinasnaid 17:59, 7 January 2006 (UTC)
Your kitchen is 8 degrees C ? I guess you have a blue chef to go along with the bleu cheese. StuRat 18:18, 7 January 2006 (UTC)

[edit] argonaut

The Argonauts were in search of the golden fleece in Greek Mythology,,Is the word "Argonaut" also used to describe 49er's of California Gold Rush times? Gary Day Rocklin California

I've never heard it used that way. StuRat 18:15, 7 January 2006 (UTC)
Yes, most definitely. Check out this Google search. User:Zoe|(talk) 19:51, 7 January 2006 (UTC)

[edit] currency question

I have two 20,000 peso bills from 1988 (one is serie CS and the other is serie DA). I also have three 2,000 peso bills from 1987 (one is serie CW, another is serie DB and the third one is serie DA). Can anyone tell me the value of these bills and where I could exchange them into US dollars if I ever choose to?

The peso is the unit of currency in many countries, which one do you mean ? StuRat 18:13, 7 January 2006 (UTC)
Two very simple answers: (1) The value fluxuates. If they are collector's items, you need to ask an appraiser who specializes in that sort of thing, or go hunting for currency collector's websites or things like this. (2) Most banks and international airports (they have currency exchange stands, international ones do). Cernen 10:07, 8 January 2006 (UTC)

[edit] I have a question about sanctifying the temple ground.

I'm trying to find the link between the red cow and the sanctification of the ground that the temple is to be built on. Is it the blood that santifies the ground. Also is it the ashes and water that washes away sin? It is Judaism. And I'm in the (USA)

It would be helpful if you said what country you live in, what religion you're talking about, and so on. —Keenan Pepper 22:37, 7 January 2006 (UTC)
I think the questioner is referring to the red heifer in Judaism.--Pharos 23:46, 7 January 2006 (UTC)

[edit] mass media

Is cellphone a mass media?

No. Cellular phones are a means of personal communication, not a way to send the same message to a large audience. —Keenan Pepper 00:20, 8 January 2006 (UTC)
I think some do have the option to send a phone or text message to multiple recipients. Still, this is far short of "mass media", which typically involves the ability to send messages to thousands or millions of people at once. StuRat 01:58, 8 January 2006 (UTC)
They can be used as a mass medium though; Berlusconi's government once sent an SMS to every mobile phone in Italy, reminding people to vote. David Sneek 08:08, 8 January 2006 (UTC)
  • That's just mean to the Italian youth. A lot of phones are sold to young people who aren't yet allowed to vote. Isn't that similar to spamming? - Mgm|(talk) 12:06, 8 January 2006 (UTC)

[edit] January 8

[edit] Angostura Aromatic Bitters

Could you please tell me what 45% alcohol by volume means? Is this product safe for children or people who should not drink alcohol? Could this product produce intoxication, or cause a person to smell as if they have been drinking (alcohol/liquor)? Thank You, DB

Alcohol by volume is a measure of what proportion of the total volume of the beverage is composed of alcohol. (It is also the proof divided by two.) So 45% ABV means that just shy of half the liquid in Angostura bitters is alcohol.
As to whether it's safe, that depends on your standards. Bitters are typically used in very small quantities - one or two drops at a time - so the amount of alcohol you'll get from an average serving is tiny, far too little to get even a child drunk. However, some people who abstain as part of their treatment for alcoholism will not even drink that little bit. --George 00:54, 8 January 2006 (UTC)
Note that many cold remedies for children also contain alcohol. The same logic applies, they just don't drink enough to get intoxicated. StuRat 01:55, 8 January 2006 (UTC)
For clarification: one could also measure the alcohol content by weight. Since alcohol is much lighter than water (the main other constituent of just about any drink), that percentage would be lower. Why volume is used in stead of weight, I don't know, but I suppose it was just a matter of flipping a coin, so to say. DirkvdM 09:39, 8 January 2006 (UTC)
  • I suppose it makes things easier when determining how much alcohol someone is allowed to have in their system. Blood alcohol levels are also easily determined in percentages. - Mgm|(talk) 12:08, 8 January 2006 (UTC)
  • (After edit conflict) Well, manufacturers could manipulate alcohol by weight measures by using more or less dense mixers. The good thing about alcohol by volume is that given a vessel or serving of known volume, it doesn't take any further tools to work out the amount of alcohol in that vessel. (In the UK, the size of spirit serving must by law be displayed). The responsible drinker than therefore plan their intake. The irresponsible drinker too, if they can still do arithmetic. To the original poster: 45% by volume is about as much alchohol as whisky has in it, but it would be harder to drink bitters to excess (for most people). Notinasnaid 12:15, 8 January 2006 (UTC)

[edit] need information about claude hollingsworth murder on mt lemon, approx. november 18-20, 1999

need info about claude hollingsworth murder on mt lemon from tucson newspaper.What info is available?

You could do a google search for any newspapers that are published in Tucson. Then search the newspaper's archives which are normally available on their web sites. A small fee is sometimes charged to get the whole article. This would probably be easier and less time consuming for you considering you'd have to wait for someone here to perform the same searches that you're able to do yourself. Dismas|(talk) 05:04, 8 January 2006 (UTC)

[edit] Trying to find out something about my family

I would like to trace back my family history and rule in or out affiliation (if there is any) with James Craggs the Elder.

well, the key is in tracing back from you rather than forward from him (or from his ancestors).

Can you .... let me how a title becomes extinct, relating to the Viscount Clare peerage, which seems to be related to the 1st Earl Nugent, Robert Craggs-Nugent?

The Viscountcy of Clare, created for Robert Craggs-Nugent on 19 January 1767 in the Peerage of Ireland, became extinct on his death, because he had no male heirs. The Barony of Nugent of Carlanstown also became extinct on his death, for the same reason (it was recreated for the 1st Earl's daughter, the wife of the 2nd Earl, with a special remainder to her son George, but that also became extinct when George died without children). The title of Earl Nugent didn't become extinct on the 1st Earl's death, because it was created with a special remainder, failing heirs male of his body, to his son-in-law, George Grenville, who became the 2nd Earl. The Earldom became extinct on the death of the second earl's great-grandson, the last heir male of his body, in 1889. - Nunh-huh 04:16, 8 January 2006 (UTC)

[edit] asociation of relexologist in the uk e-mail address

Try Association of Reflexologists. CambridgeBayWeather (Talk) 10:42, 8 January 2006 (UTC)
Which spot do you need to stimulate to improve the spelling and capitalization skills of the patient ? StuRat 11:16, 8 January 2006 (UTC)
A swift kick in the ass. Cernen 06:44, 9 January 2006 (UTC)

[edit] Les Elephants

Nicknamed Les Elephants, this team's greatest achievement until 2005 was winning an inter-continental trophy in 1992. it will make its debut on its sport's greatest stage in 2006. which team?

  • Are you genuinely interested in knowing the answer or are you trying to quiz us? — JIP | Talk 10:38, 8 January 2006 (UTC)
Try soccer. CambridgeBayWeather (Talk) 10:41, 8 January 2006 (UTC)
Given that the question is quoted almost verbatim from the intro to our article on the Ivorian national football team, I'm assuming that they're quizzing us. ByeByeBaby 21:27, 8 January 2006 (UTC)

[edit] PC Assembly Guide

Hello.

I am interested in building my own computer, but I have not done anything like this before. I was hoping that someone could provide me with information as to where I can find guides and such for building a machine, where to buy parts from, what sort of parts I should get, and how to store those components (if a special storage method is necessary.)

I currently use a Dell XPS with a 3.60 GHz processor, and 1022 RAM, but I don't necessarily need all that for my first machine, it really depends on how much it will cost and how difficult it will be to make.

Thanks in advance, Demonesque 11:20, 8 January 2006 (UTC)

This isn't an answer, but just an observation: if you want to do this to save money, you will be disappointed. It will almost certainly cost more to buy the parts than to buy an assembled computer. (That's not a reason not to do it, it's interesting and educational, but you need a realistic view.) In addition, if you want to run Windows, it costs *much* more to buy a copy of Microsoft Windows at retail than it does for your PC manufacturer (who buys OEM copies in bulk at a huge discount); transferring Windows from another machine is not generally a legal solution because it will probably be OEM (and untransferable, even if sending the machine to landfill). This doesn't apply if you want to run Linux. Notinasnaid 11:41, 8 January 2006 (UTC)
Shuttle Computers aren't bad for starting off, they're small-factor computers and you buy the case with the motherboard already in. You then buy all the other components and fit them in yourself. See http://www.shuttle.com 87.80.210.29 15:16, 8 January 2006 (UTC)


  • Building a computer is a bit like a puzzle; if you're a logical thinker, and you're good at them, it shouldn't be too hard to assemble them, provided you follow the instructions.
  • It'll cost more to build your own, but there will be more of a "wow, I did it" feeling once you're finished. (Which also means you'll cry when it dies.)
  • Store components in an anti-static bag. They're not necessarily rare, but they can be pricey from what I understand. I used to get mine from work; we had a general excess of them.

As long as you keep the amount of stuff you buy to a minimum (buy your video card and memory last; it'll be cheaper when you're done), take your time, buy an anti-static wrist strap, and follow all directions, you should be fine. Oh, and don't use Windows. Use Linux. Cernen 06:50, 9 January 2006 (UTC)

In my experience, physically putting together a computer is easier than installing all the software. With msWindows that is, because you have to install everything yourself. Linux distros often come with a humungous amount of software that you can install along with the OS, which even installs more easily than msWindows these days. The only problem is when you want to install other software, because getting the dependencies fulfilled (or how do you say that) can be hell. But Debian seem to have cracked that.
But back to the hardware. Last time I put a computer together I didn't have a proper manual for what goes where and the architecture was new to me, but everything went well because you simply can't stick something in the wrong place - it just won't fit. The only exception was with some minor connectors (builtin beepspeaker and such), but the coding gave that away (with some educated guessing). DirkvdM 09:49, 9 January 2006 (UTC)

Sorry for bolding, but isn't there anyone that has noticed that there is a complete Wikibook on the topic in question??? TERdON 11:20, 9 January 2006 (UTC) http://en.wikibooks.org/wiki/How_To_Build_A_Computer

[edit] iraq

is us invasation on iraq is right? did they found any weapens of mass destraction.

They didn't find any Weapons of Mass Destruction, but whether its right or not depends on your opinion. smurrayinchester(User), (Talk) 15:57, 8 January 2006 (UTC)
There is an entire article on the invasion including extensive discussion of the reasons for it, please see 2003 Invasion of Iraq. -- Rick Block (talk) 19:02, 8 January 2006 (UTC)

Please keep in mind that Saddam was the biggest Weapon of Mass Destruction of them all.

Interresting typo. The best way to avert attention from domestic problems is to create a common enemy. Thatcher used the Falklands for that (from the article: a wave of patriotic sentiment swept through the United Kingdom, bolstering the government of British Prime Minister Margaret Thatcher.). And Bush used Iraq for that purpose, so to him that invasion was a "Weapon of Mass Distraction". :) DirkvdM 09:55, 9 January 2006 (UTC)
I don't think that was quite it in either case. Bush wanted to avenge the assassination attempt on his father by Iraq and Thatcher was reacting to the insult on British pride at having their islands captured by a nation with a third-rate military. StuRat 10:55, 9 January 2006 (UTC)
Oops, I got that the wrong way around. It was actually Argentina that used this to avert attention from domestic problems. Although it happened to help Thatcher too (maybe they made a deal? - another one for the conspiracy freaks :) ). If that assassination attempt at old Bush was the reason the reaction came a little late, didn't it? DirkvdM 09:59, 10 January 2006 (UTC)
Well, Clinton was in office at the time, so did nothing. Bush Jr. invaded Iraq as quickly as he could, having to first get elected and invade Afghanistan, since that was where al-Queada actually was, before getting around to pretending they were hiding in Iraq so he could invade there. StuRat 04:25, 14 January 2006 (UTC)

[edit] français: jeux de scène

Hello, I am currently doing some homework for my french class about Fables de la Fontaine and we have to chose one and say how we would make it into a play. There is just one phrase that I cannot understand, it is "Jeux de scène" and i was wondering if anyone would please help me finding a pretty much exact definition for it so that i can understand the question. Could you please post you answers before the 9th of January 2006 G.M.T.+1 Thank you in advance, Daniel.

Bonjour, je suis couramment entrain de faire un devoir pour mon professeur de français sur les Fables de la Fontaine, on doit en choisir une et puis dire comment on le mettrais en théâtre. Il y a just une chose que je ne comprends pas, c'est "Jeux de scène" et je me demandai si quelqu'un aurait le gentilesse de m'aider trouver un définition pour que je puisse comprendre la question. Veillez répondre avant le 9 Janvier 2006 en heure française. Merci d'avance, Daniel.

Might you consider showing us the context in which it is used?
Veuillez nous montrer la phrase dans laquelle elle est utilisée.
En anglais, ça veux dire "stage business", unpredictable or incidental activities performed by actors on the stage for dramatic effect. deeptrivia (talk) 05:03, 9 January 2006 (UTC)

Thank you, for your answer. Merci pour votre réponse. daniel 14:49, 13 January 2006 (UTC)

[edit] Searchable index of pages.

I have little knowledge of things like PHP, MySQL, etc etc. In fact, I can barely write HTML. Despite this, I'd like to make a small searchable database (I believe this is the correct term) for personal use. I would have a page for each item -- in this case, each item is an episode of a TV series I own. For example, I'd have a list of TV shows - I'd click Frasier, then Season 1, and it would show all 24 episodes, then I'd click one and it would bring up a page about it, with guest stars, trivia, what disc it's on in my DVD cabinet, what special features it has, and more importantly, keywords I've entered for it. I'd be able to search the database for a keyword to find things.

What would I need in order to actually make this? It is basically just using a search-box to find keywords I've attached to a .HTML page. It would only need to search in the "keywords" section, if it makes it easier. Thank you. ----Alice Barron, January 9 2006

  • The problem is that search box has to correspond with not only searching code but a database chock full of information. There is no terribly simple way to create a custom database, unfortunately. An easier solution than trying to create on with a web interface (because even simple ones require a lot of learning in terms of PHP and MySQL) is to try a dedicated database creation program. Most of these cost money — FileMaker and Microsoft Access are two of the most popular ones. The only one I know of that doesn't cost money is OpenOffice.org Base, though my brief playing with it had not made feel that it is very easy to use (its interface is modeled on Access, which is not the most intuitive program). It would be very easy for someone with some minimal database-creation experience to make what you would want, but it would be a lot of investment for someone without any experience to make such a thing if they didn't plan on doing anything else with the knowledge. My suggestion is to poke around online for someone who would be willing to create such a thing for you, or else commit to learning how to use one of the above solutions. --Fastfission 17:11, 8 January 2006 (UTC)
I've been using Advanced File Organizer for years, and find it suits my needs. It does all that you've listed above. Natgoo 18:25, 8 January 2006 (UTC)
I don't know what else to say but this: why hasn't anyone suggested she get herself a wiki? It doesn't take much effort to set up if you follow the instructions they provide at Meta. I have my own wiki and love it to death, use it for all sorts of things. They come with built-in search, and if you've ever used Wikipedia, then you'd already have an idea of how to get it running. That's my suggestion. Cernen Xanthine Katrena 08:29, 15 January 2006 (UTC)

[edit] Quotation marks

When should I use single quotation marks over double? eg. 'Death of a salesman' OR "Death of a salesman"?

There is no universal agreement. Most people in North America use double quotes as the primary type and reserve single quotes for quotations within quotations. This is sometimes done in Britain, but the opposite style is more commonly seen there. (There are also a few people who vary between single and double quotes depending on exactly what they are using the quotation marks for, but that's definitely nonstandard.) The quotation marks article mentions this, but probably should go into it in a bit more depth.
The specific example was a title. For titles, it is often recommended that quotation marks should be reserved for shorter works such as short stories; titles of books, plays, and movies go in italics (or they are underlined if italics are not available). So rather than either 'Death of a Salesman' or "Death of a Salesman", the preferred choice is Death of a Salesman.
--Anonymous, 17:40 UTC, January 8, 2006
If you are referring to how to use quotes specifically for Wikipedia articles, it's given in the manual of style. - Akamad 19:15, 8 January 2006 (UTC)
Funny, I was just told off by gidonb on the Netherlands talk page (last posting) for using single quotes in phrases like "The English plural 'Netherlands' is a remnant from ...". Note the double quotes around the whole phrase (because it is a quote) and the single quotes around 'Netherlands' to mark it as a word that is not part of the sentence but the subject of it. Gidonb changed that to double quotes. I've always believed that my method was standard (and I've been altering it all over Wikipedia), but now I've started to doubt. The manual of style does not address this, only the use of quotation marks for quotes. DirkvdM 10:25, 9 January 2006 (UTC)
Thank you

[edit] How can I view older versions of Wikipedia pages?

I'd like to read the article on the Deep Throat informant and Watergate as it read prior to May, 2005. Is it possible to read older versions?

  • Yes. Click on "history" at the top bar and select the date of the revision you want. — JIP | Talk 17:04, 8 January 2006 (UTC)

[edit] Prime Minister Sharon

Which of the 12 original tribes does Prime Minister Sharon belong to? E-mail address removed

The Jews are said to descend from the tribes of Judah and Benjamin. The other 10 tribes (the Ten Lost Tribes) "disappeared" after the fall of the Kingdom of Israel in the 8th century BCE. It is, of course, quite possible that over the past 3,000 years, Sharon's ancestors intermarried with people of various ethnicities. -- Mwalcoff 21:18, 8 January 2006 (UTC)


[edit] Most expensive movie

i can't find this anywhere i looked on imdb but it wasn't clear, what is the highest budget film, and therefore the most expensive film to date?

List of most expensive films. MeltBanana 20:44, 8 January 2006 (UTC)
Incredible how many lousy films (Titanic and such) and films I never heard of are on that list. And not one of the Lord of the Rings films on it. Those guys really knew how to use a budget! DirkvdM 10:07, 10 January 2006 (UTC)
Thank you
That lousy film Titanic that won best picture? The great budgeting of the Lord of the Rings movies, by the same people who made King Kong, the film that tops that list? User:Zoe|(talk) 22:44, 10 January 2006 (UTC)
Right! Haven't seen King Kong yet, but I should. If only to see what those guys can do with such a huge budget :) . Whose best picture did that Titanic movie win? :) DirkvdM 07:50, 11 January 2006 (UTC)

[edit] #

There is no article on this, at least i don't think so, what is it called, and what is it used for other than something to do with number, also what are its origins? (7121989 20:00, 8 January 2006 (UTC))

Yes there is, see Number sign. It has lots of names... Lupo 20:21, 8 January 2006 (UTC)
I know it as hash, but I haven't yet tried to smoke it. :) DirkvdM 10:29, 9 January 2006 (UTC)
Smoking that kind of #=<+ results. ~ next time I feel witty, WAvegetarian (talk) (email) (contribs) 07:40, 10 January 2006 (UTC)
Less than plus results? DirkvdM 10:08, 10 January 2006 (UTC)
Thank you
Less than positive, but yeah. I've found that, generally, you don't get great results from smoking printer paper covered in #s. WAvegetarian (talk) (email) (contribs) 08:48, 15 January 2006 (UTC)
Nay! The results are doubleplusgood! That is, if you fill the paper with real hash...then you get that good ol' hashhash effect going...mmmmyeah... Cernen Xanthine Katrena 20:47, 15 January 2006 (UTC)

[edit] Lease contract

Hello. I bought a truck. Truck is on my name but a company is using that truck. At present time they are paying monthly payments to the bank. They wrote me letter: lease agreement for 60 month and that they agree to pay my loan for truck. But it's just letter. I understand I need some legal contract. May be I could find online the car lease form? And have I notarise it or not? Thank You, Natalia.

Wikipedia does not give legal advice. You should talk to a lawyer or a financial advisor. --Canley 22:16, 8 January 2006 (UTC)


[edit] Music download

What kind of music is safe to download in the US using a P2P software? How can I figure out whether a particular file is legal to download? I am especially talking about music made outside the US, and possibly having (or not having) copyrights in other countries. deeptrivia (talk) 22:53, 8 January 2006 (UTC)

  • You should generally be very wary of anything you download using P2P. Some independent bands (and occasionally major ones) will release their music via the Internet and permit free distribution. Some of these are even "sponsored bands" who work directly with some of the peer-to-peer programs to get their music out. A simple, general rule is that if you could buy the music somewhere, it's probably illegal to download it - but this of course does not constitute legal advice. (ESkog)(Talk) 23:54, 8 January 2006 (UTC)
    • Note: that last rule is note necessarily true. For example, Amazon has a fairly large collection of free and legal downloads, many of which one would have to pay a dollar for on iTunes. Zafiroblue05 22:26, 14 January 2006 (UTC)
Thanks! One clarification: Does "somewhere" mean somewhere in the US, or anywhere in the world? deeptrivia (talk) 23:59, 8 January 2006 (UTC)
Almost anywhere. See Berne Convention. —Keenan Pepper 00:13, 9 January 2006 (UTC)
But it may soon be legal in france and sweeden (?) as they try to make a change in copyright law .

[edit] Music in Ocean's Twelve

Hello, There is a song that plays in the background, where the other theift, François Toulour (played by Vincent Cassel), is stealing the replica Fabergé egg. It is a dance song with a Arabian tone to it. I would very much appreatiate if anyone knew the name. Also, I looked at the sound track and it wasn't on it. Thank you --(Aytakin) | Talk 23:13, 8 January 2006 (UTC)

The song is called "Thé à la Menthe" and is performed by La Caution ☢ Ҡieff⌇↯ 04:16, 9 January 2006 (UTC)

[edit] Russia

Hi, I need your guys help relating to the country Russia. Russia is a country in Asia. But we dont call them Asians like the other countries (China, Japan, Korea etc...)thier is a certain word that people use to call Russian's, Siberian's, etc... I saw when I was about to take a test, and you have to bubble in what nationality you are, so I saw it said Russia and other countries listed. Then thier was a bracket to combine all those countries, and a word next to it that tells you what nationality they really are or what you would call them. I need to know this word, I think it starts when an "S" but i'm not a 100% sure. please help, thanks.

The word (and article) you are looking for might be Slavic. --Canley 23:55, 8 January 2006 (UTC)
It's worth pointing out here that Russia is a country of very many ethnicities, so you have to distinguish between Russian nationality (as in someone born in Russia) and Russian ethnicity. Ethnic Russians are Slavs, not Asians. But native peoples of east-Siberia such as Buryats are Asians, not Slavs. But they still have a Russian nationality. See the article Demographics of Russia, which has a quite impressive list of ethnical groups. --BluePlatypus 00:18, 9 January 2006 (UTC)
A big chunk of Russia is in Europe. --Nelson Ricardo 00:44, 9 January 2006 (UTC)
Not the biggest chunk in size (it's the part west of the Ural), but certainly the most populous part. And that's where the Russian Slavs live. Actually, all Slavs are Europeans. And most Russians. DirkvdM 10:36, 9 January 2006 (UTC)

The ruling class has always been of European ancestry and culture, starting with Vikings, I believe. This is why it's considered a European country even though most of it is in Asia. In a reverse example, Turkey could perhaps be considered an Asian country, even though part of it is in Europe, since it's people are primarily of Asian descent. StuRat 10:45, 9 January 2006 (UTC)

The word you may be looking for is Eurasian MeltBanana 19:33, 9 January 2006 (UTC)
Right, the distinction is pretty arbitrary, geographically speaking. But this is more about cultural differences. And it's that which dominates the discussion about entry of Turkey into the EU for many people. DirkvdM 10:11, 10 January 2006 (UTC)

[edit] incest

I know a man whose mother passed away and his step father remarried...he was having an affair with his step dads new wife...would you consider this incest?

  • Well, have a look at incest. In the introduction, it says that some cultures only consider incest to be sexual relations among blood relatives, while others include marriage and adoption as taboos. (ESkog)(Talk) 23:51, 8 January 2006 (UTC)

[edit] January 9

[edit] Ohio River Travel Times

What is the travel time by boat from Cincinnati, OH to Pittsburhg, PA?

What kind of boat are you talking about? There are two slow steamboat cruises run by Delta Queen which take either four or five nights to travel between the cities you mention. --Canley 02:02, 9 January 2006 (UTC)

[edit] Moustache and glasses

Is there any specific name for the type of oft-caricatured "disguise" that consists of glasses attached to a fake nose, attached to a fake moustache? --JianLi 02:06, 9 January 2006 (UTC)

  • Hey, do you think this is easy? --hydnjo talk 03:54, 9 January 2006 (UTC)

[edit] do plastic give off Dioxons when frozen?

The amount of dioxin in plastics is so little as to be arguably clinically meaningless. Plastics are continuously off gassing, so I would assume some would be released while it was frozen. See dioxin for more information. WAvegetarian (talk) (email) (contribs) 04:32, 9 January 2006 (UTC)

This is an urban myth]. --BluePlatypus 04:46, 9 January 2006 (UTC)

[edit] Nigeria Olympic Team

>What sports will the Nigeria Winter Olympic Team compete in? Who will compete?

I'm not sure that Nigeria has a delegate to the 2006 Winter Games in Torino. WAvegetarian (talk) (email) (contribs) 07:52, 10 January 2006 (UTC)
I think they actually do, and I think he's a skier. You might need to clarify that one. --JB Adder | Talk 23:24, 10 January 2006 (UTC)

[edit] how invinted the passport

See Passport. --Canley 05:11, 9 January 2006 (UTC)

[edit] Friends DVD's

Is there a way i can tell if my Friend copied my DVD without letting me knowing, beside's asking him?

Even if there is, I guess it would be prohibitingly expensive. I can't think of any way they might be able to do it. deeptrivia (talk) 05:09, 9 January 2006 (UTC)
No, there isn't, unless you happen to find the copy. --cesarb 05:20, 9 January 2006 (UTC)
  • I haven't tried copying one, but aren't those protected from copying? - Mgm|(talk) 08:30, 9 January 2006 (UTC)
You're probably thinking of movies on DVD's. It's the movies that are protected, not the DVD format. And even the movies aren't always protected. DirkvdM 10:43, 9 January 2006 (UTC)
Okay aren't commercial films on a DVD protected against illegal copying? (Is that better phrased, Dirk?)
They are but the protection (CSS) was cracked some years ago. So Copying is about as easy as pressing the copy button. helohe (talk) 22:17, 12 January 2006 (UTC)

I suppose there might be some single bit errors which would then be replicated on the copy. If you had such an original and a possible copy, the presence of the same single bit errors would indicate a copy, or possibly that both were copied from a common source. If your copy is perfect, however, I don't see how you could tell. And if, as I suspect, you have no access to the potential copy, then there is no way to know. StuRat 10:37, 9 January 2006 (UTC)

Untrue, because the strong Error Correcting Code used by DVDs fixes all single-bit errors. --cesarb 14:27, 9 January 2006 (UTC)
To see if anyone else had opened it you could dust the DVD or its case for fingerprints. Or with a little advance planning you could seal the case with a small piece of tape so that you could see if it has been opened. Or place a tiny scrap of paper in the case which will fall out if the case is opened in your absence. --Shantavira 16:58, 9 January 2006 (UTC)
You could just accuse your friend of copying your DVD and see how he reacts.  ;-) hydnjo talk 20:48, 9 January 2006 (UTC)
Or if you wanted you could install monitoring software on your computer. Then the logs would tell you if they were making copies plus everything else they did. CambridgeBayWeather (Talk) 00:00, 10 January 2006 (UTC)
If it's just a film (and therefore nothing personal), what does it matter? DirkvdM 10:16, 10 January 2006 (UTC)
It's all about bragging rights.   freshgavin TALK    06:03, 16 January 2006 (UTC)

[edit] Jews in Saudi Arabia

Is it true that no Jews are allowed to enter Saudi Arabia? What's the reason? deeptrivia (talk) 05:46, 9 January 2006 (UTC)

  • Due to Arab-Israeli conflict, holders of Israeli passports are not allowed entry into Saudi Arabia. Moreover, Saudi Arabian immigration authorities may not issue visas to people they suspect to be linked with Israel. As a peripheral piece of information, many Saudi banks (through Letter of Credit terms) insist ocean vessels to issue certificates that they are not of Israeli origin nor have they called on Israeli ports on that voyage. --Tachs 07:17, 9 January 2006 (UTC)
Right, so it's not about Jews (which would have been odd since they're all Semites) but about Israel. This sort of thing is not uncommon. Eg, you can't enter the US with a Cuban stamp in your passport (which is why your passport doesn't get stamped when entering Cuba). There are more examples, but I can't think of any now. DirkvdM 10:48, 9 January 2006 (UTC)
Does the Cuban example apply to everyone, or only to Americans? For example, I'm British and can visit Cuba freely - if I flew from Britain to Cuba, then from there to (say) Canada, would I be prevented from crossing the Canada/US border? Loganberry (Talk) 12:23, 9 January 2006 (UTC)
I know dozens of Canadians who have been to Cuba, and not one has ever been prevented from entering the US. DJ Clayworth 21:26, 10 January 2006 (UTC)

I read on the Passport article that Jews, irrespective of nationality, are not allowed in Saudi Arabia! deeptrivia (talk) 14:02, 9 January 2006 (UTC)

It is true that Jews (in addition to those who hold Israeli passports or passports with Israeli stamps, people who are inappropriately dressed, and people who are visibly drunk [19]) are not allowed into the country. I don't know how strictly this rule is enforced; it's not always easy to tell if someone is Jewish. —Charles P. (Mirv) 15:02, 9 January 2006 (UTC)

Thanks! Would they ask your religion before they let you enter? I know that several Islamic countries do not allow Israelis. Do some of them also similarly ban all Jews? deeptrivia (talk) 15:11, 9 January 2006 (UTC)

I doubt anyone bans Jews in practice. How exactly would they determine your faith? (Impossible) Or would they go by who has a jewish-sounding surname? (error-prone) Or do a genealogy of every visitor? (Too labor-intensive) This page (for Syria) says they'll stop you if you have an Israeli passport, visa or stamp. For fairness sake, it's worth mentioning it's not easy to get into Israel with a Syrian or Egyptian passport either. --BluePlatypus 22:10, 9 January 2006 (UTC)
  • According to this, the ban on Jews was put on their home-page last year, together with bans on "those who don't abide by the Saudi traditions concerning appearance and behaviours" and "those under the influence of alcohol". After protests, this page has been removed. None of these bans appear to be particularily practical to enforce at the border, and I have no idea if they're being enforced in practice right now. But there's no doubt they'll throw you out of the country if you're drunk in public, wearing a bikini or preaching Christianity or Judaism. But that's not really news either. --BluePlatypus 22:24, 9 January 2006 (UTC)
  • I personally know a Jew who was banned from engineering work in Saudi Arabia (this was in the 1960s or 70s) simply on the basis of ethnicity. It is possible that this was not offical law but a "sensitive" company policy; I don't know enough to say for sure. Thomas Friedman has of course visited Saudia Arabia many times in recent years (then again, he is a very public figure).--Pharos 00:46, 10 January 2006 (UTC)
Loganberry, about not being alowed to visit Cuba, you're right, that only applies to US citizens. Still, the immigration might give you a hard time just to piss you off (any excuse will do for those bastards). But the visa is a loose leaflet, so just take it out of the passport. By the way, it's not stricly true that US'ers aren't allowed to visit Cuba. They're just not allowed to spend any money there. Right!  :)
And about the Jew-thing. Sounds unlikely it applies in either case, but the word can mean two completely different things; religion and ancestry/ethnicity (what is the right word here?). And both would be extremely hard to check (if not impossible, unless the person says it). And anyway, as I already suggested, why would the Arabs mind? It's Israel they have problems with. DirkvdM 10:32, 10 January 2006 (UTC)
Why would anyone "mind" if someone of the "wrong" ethnicity comes into their country? Bigotry; it exists in Arab countries unfortunately as it exists in other parts of the world.--Pharos 23:42, 10 January 2006 (UTC)
Do you have any examples? Being a traveller, I'd really like to know. DirkvdM 07:52, 11 January 2006 (UTC)

[edit] Car

Why?

Why not? (if you'd like a more thorough answer, you'll have to supply a more thorough question) Dismas|(talk) 11:16, 9 January 2006 (UTC)
Such as "as opposed to what?" DirkvdM 11:38, 9 January 2006 (UTC)
Since everyone wanted to get everywhere, horses and carriages weren't useful any more. Necessity is the mother of invention. Kid Apathy 15:37, 9 January 2006 (UTC)
Well there were also trains, but those needed a separate infrastructure, which wasn't quite as extensive yet as roads were. By the way, I don't think everyone wanted to get everywhere (talking about the 18th century now). The vast majority of people could't afford a car (couldn't afford a ford :) ) (or even a decent meal for many). Only about half a century ago were cars cheap enough and wages high enough for many people to be able to buy a car. So it might as well be that the invention createed the sense of necessity (the rich have it, we wants it too, our prrrrecious). And for another by the way, even now not quite everyone has a car (in the Netherlands it's one car per 3 people and that's a wealthy country). And cars as they are now can never be for everyone. Just think of toddlers and demented people. And many people who are allowed to drive cars shouldn't. The result is a death toll of 25 million (25 million!).
So why cars indeed? (good question after all :) )DirkvdM 10:44, 10 January 2006 (UTC)
Cdr. – b_jonas 21:33, 12 January 2006 (UTC)

[edit] Pele the Brazilian

I have noticed that Pele the soccer player is described as a forward. Does this mean that he was a striker or an attacking midfielder? A jersey number alone does not determine a players position on the field so please consider this before you give me an answer.

Pelé was known for his beautiful goals, which is a dead give-away. And forward indeed means attacker. By the way, the game is called 'football'. Or association football if you wish. Abbreviating that to 'soccer' is like calling american football 'merrer'. If you think that sounds ugly, well that's how most of the world feels about the term 'soccer'. So don't let me catch you using that name again. :) DirkvdM 11:00, 9 January 2006 (UTC)
Soccer was called that in the UK for a while to distinguish it from Rugby football, soccer obviously being short for association football. Since America already had a game we just called football, the term soccer never fell out of usage. So it's perfectly valid. :) Luigi30 (Ταλκ) 15:19, 9 January 2006 (UTC)
That's stupid. They don't even use their feet most of the time! And before you say rugby players don't either, no-one calls it rugby football any more. Just one of the many things I have an opinion on. Kid Apathy 15:33, 9 January 2006 (UTC)
So you're saying the Rugby Football League doesn't really exist? User:Zoe|(talk) 22:49, 10 January 2006 (UTC)
The US already had a game called football? Football was played in Europe centuries before the US even came into existence! Well, the rules changed over time and there were ultimately two versions, the other being rugby. And American football is much more like rugby, so why isn't it called 'American rugby'? Or 'merrer', like I said. If you insist on 'soccer' you have to be a good sport and accept that name too. Would you? And if you wouldn't, then can you accept why we won't accept 'soccer'? DirkvdM 10:51, 10 January 2006 (UTC)
Don't complain, DirkvdM. The English invented the word "soccer." It's a very British word. If Americans were to come up with a short form of "Association football," they would call it "soc-ball" (pronounced "soash-ball") or something.
It's interesting, actually. I looked through the headlines in the New York Times archives and found the semantic discrepancy between (American) "football" and "soccer" did not really come up until the early 1900s, when colleges were looking for a substitute for the American game (American-football players of the period had the nasty habit of getting killed during games). Between the introduction of organized "football" (closer to rugby) in the US in the 1870s and the 1900s, there was only one popular autumn game: "football," which gradually became a specifically American game over those decades. By the time of the great controversy (around 1905), advocates of "English rugby," "Association football" and even Canadian football pleaded their case for their games to replace American football as the big autumn sport. Of those sports, soccer made the greatest progress, but lost most of its inroads after reforms made American football safer. The point is, by the time organized FA-rules "soccer" hit American shores, the word "football" in the US had already been reserved for a game that had branched off from rugby.
Oh, and see football (word) -- Mwalcoff 01:18, 11 January 2006 (UTC)
Yeah, I know the English invented the abbreviation soccer, but that was kids. Adults hardly ever use it, do they? The BBC don't and their word is gospel to me. :)
I always thought that merrer players were a bunch of sissie with their helmets and shoulder padding, but if people got killed playing it, that explains a lot. Does any of this happen in Aussie rules? Seems a lot tougher, and they don't use any protection. Or rugby, for that matter (for which the knocked out teeth are an indication). DirkvdM 08:02, 11 January 2006 (UTC)

[edit] federal penalties for having a mtn bike in wilderness

Would anyone out there know what the federal penalty (fines and/or prison term) for riding a mountain bike in a federally designated wilderness area.

Thanks in advance. —Preceding unsigned comment added by 208.34.12.102 (talk • contribs)

What country? Yeltensic42.618 don't panic 17:50, 9 January 2006 (UTC)

His or her ISP seems to be located in South Dakota. --Optichan 18:54, 9 January 2006 (UTC)
  • Hmm, I tried googling on this, and turned up a curious result: [20] Apparently the banning of mountain bikes is a mistake, but it's still prohibited by forest service regs. Penalties seem to also be a matter of forest service regs and it's about several hundred dollars for various degrees of violations. Haven't seen any reference to prison time though. Night Gyr 23:45, 9 January 2006 (UTC)
How do you find the location of the ISP? DirkvdM 10:52, 10 January 2006 (UTC)
DirkvdM, you can use an IP lookup tool, sometimes called WHOIS for some reason. For example I use the "WHOIS Lookup" box (left column) here. It gave me South Dakota for the questioner above, and worked out my location corrrectly, so it's one of the better IP lookups out there.--Commander Keane 11:54, 10 January 2006 (UTC)
Looks like a very handy set of tools. I've bookmarked the page. Thanks. DirkvdM 08:06, 11 January 2006 (UTC)

[edit] Grooming

Is it recommended that you wash your hair everyday?

Generally, yes. But it also depends on some factors, such as age (eg yes if you're 15 like me, not necessarily if you're 8). Yeltensic42.618 don't panic 17:49, 9 January 2006 (UTC)
Depends on your quality of hair (thin/thick, oily/dry, etc), the quality of the skin of your scalp, and so on. You can damage your hair by washing it too much. If you work out a lot and usually shower or bathe twice a day, you might not want to shampoo your hair both times. Although some people have no problems with this. If you have long hair, you might want to wash it less often than once a day. But if you have an oily scalp, you might want to wash more often. --BluePlatypus 22:34, 9 January 2006 (UTC)
As indirectly indicated above, a distinction should be made between washing with water and with water and soap (ie shampoo). I wash my hair daily, but I haven't used shampoo for 15 years now (except occasionally when I'm really dirty for some reason) and that stopped my hair from falling out (else I would have gotten as bald as my brother). A midway solution might be to use baby shampoo. DirkvdM 10:59, 10 January 2006 (UTC)

[edit] Victorian era

Who were the leaders in the Victorian Era? What were the politics like? And who were Queen Victoria's friends?

You don't mention if you have read the Victorian era article or not so it makes your question difficult to answer. hydnjo talk 20:41, 9 January 2006 (UTC)
The leaders of what? The United Kingdom? For Victoria's friends, see 'Early reign' in Victoria of the United Kingdom. See also John Brown (servant). For leaders and politics, search for "Prime Minister" and follow the links. --Canley 23:44, 9 January 2006 (UTC)
One leader of the victorian era is a bit obvious: queen Victoria. DirkvdM 11:00, 10 January 2006 (UTC)

[edit] Help

I am trying to locate vital records of Warren County in the early to mid-1800's. Where can I find such records?

A key question is "Warren county, where?" Anyway, I'd start by checking for records at a local library (or consulting with their reference desk for where local records are stored). — Lomn | Talk / RfC 21:53, 9 January 2006 (UTC)
When you visit the Warren county public library, be sure to ask at their reference desk if there is any kind of historical society for the region. User:AlMac|(talk) 23:18, 10 January 2006 (UTC)
Just about every LDS Steak Center will have a Family History Center that you can visit and look up records in. There's also the big huge one in Salt Lake, but it gets hot during the summer, so dress light. Heh. Cernen Xanthine Katrena 11:17, 15 January 2006 (UTC)

[edit] shape shifting device

Is it possible for scientists to make a device that allows the user to change into any biological form (excluding single-celled organisms and plantlife) using the creatures DNA?

Neat science fiction scenario; I saw it in Tank Girl! I think someday you will be able to grow extra limbs, but you could never map them into your brain. We will just have to be happy with Doc Oc exo-suits. --Zeizmic 21:15, 9 January 2006 (UTC)
I wouldn't be so sure. If/when we perfect nanotechnology, amazing things may become possible. Pure speculation right now though. —Keenan Pepper 01:26, 10 January 2006 (UTC)

Two things would need to be considered, even if it was possible:

  • Conservation of mass. An object, even a living one, can't just increase or decrease in mass spontaneously. It could change density, and therefore volume, however.
  • Speed of change. There are organisms that undergo amazing changes now, like a caterpillar into a butterfly. However, such changes don't occur instantly, but take quite a long time for a transition period.

StuRat 06:27, 10 January 2006 (UTC)

Thanks!

If you conceptually trust the concept of Star Trek beaming yourself into a computer system of some kind, e-mailing yourself to a different computer system, then rematerializing at the destination, the computer systems could perhaps analyse you so as to reconstitute you in a smaller mass, that retains the memories, and adds some motor functions to help you cope. Like if you were a biped and are now an octopus you might need help maneuvering the extra limbs. User:AlMac|(talk) 23:22, 10 January 2006 (UTC)
"Is it possible?" is a vague sort of question. There is no technology today that gives any prospect of doing this sort of thing or being extended in the foreseeable future to do it. However, there is no physical law that keeps the matter of a living thing's body from being rearranged, as StuRat's example of the caterpillar shows. Imagine a primitive man looking at a bird and remembering how he once made a weapon out of a sharpened stick, and asking "Is it possible that someone will make a thing that will let fly through the air and carry people at 20 times that speed?" Is the answer yes or no? Depends on what you mean by "possible", right? Well, this is like that. --Anonymous, 05:54 UTC, Jan. 11, 2006

[edit] California drought in '70s or '80s

I heard sometime in the 70's or 80's that there was a drought in Southern California that lasted 5 years. It was said that when it finally rained schools were called off because the young children living in the area had never seen rain fall from the sky. I would like to have this story verified.

As far as I know that story is false. It sounds like an urban legend. You might try looking at Snopes.com. WAvegetarian (talk) (email) (contribs) 21:51, 9 January 2006 (UTC)
hmm... I remember reading that alot of rainstorms were happening there around that time, so, a district court judge ordered the rain to stop, and it did for 5 years, after which the judge overturned his decision. it rained the day after.
His name was Samuel King. The citation for where I heard it was "Lawyer's Wit and Wisdom", Bruce Nash and Allan Zullo/Kathryn Zullo. Running Press: Philadelphia, 1994. Page 34. LoC number 94-73880, ISBN 1 56138 650 2.

[edit]  ???

I have google earth(c) on my computer, and in the Washington D.C. area, where Massachusetts Ave. connects with Observatory Rd., there is a circular area where the resolution is extremely low, while everything else on the earth in the program is Hi-Res. That area seems to have been manipulated. so, does anybody know what that area is?

Disclaimer: google(c) earth(c) belongs to Google(c)

It's the US Naval Observatory. (not to be confused with Navel-gazing.) --BluePlatypus 22:46, 9 January 2006 (UTC)
Who somewhat ironically have a more detailed aerial shot here. --BluePlatypus 22:48, 9 January 2006 (UTC)

Thanx, but I still wonder why it was manipulated... Oh well, Thanx! :D

Do you really??? It's a security issue. The Naval observatory is a major military location not to mention the site of the VPs home. Not the sort of thing the US government wants made available. Look up other major military sites and you'll see the same thing.

I have, but they are all in Hi-Res.

The Vice President lives at an observatory? Dismas|(talk) 11:27, 10 January 2006 (UTC)
Well sure. I mean, it's gotta have a nice view, right? WAvegetarian (talk) (email) (contribs) 12:39, 10 January 2006 (UTC)
They've manipulated a fair few images; the White House has its roof covered in red to hide whatever is actually on the roof (rocket launchers and such and such). smurrayinchester(User), (Talk) 21:34, 10 January 2006 (UTC)
I always thought he lived in a hole in the ground and, should he appear during Election Season, would mean that there would be six more months of War. Cernen Xanthine Katrena 10:17, 11 January 2006 (UTC)

[edit] January 10

[edit] Eye black - how does it work?

After reading the Wikipedia article and linked pages I'm still puzzled. The region below the eyes will reflect light, but unless the athlete is wearing goggles or glasses, I don't see how it reduces glare, since there is no surface for the reflected light to strike.

Black does not reflect. It absorbs all light. --Nelson Ricardo 00:30, 10 January 2006 (UTC)
In the Light pollution article there is a description of glare. In this case, glare is caused by the sun hitting the skin on your face and bouncing into your eyes. Eye black absorbs that light. You may be thinking of glare on your car window, for example. In that case, glare is caused by the sun hitting the window and bouncing into your eyes.--Commander Keane 04:56, 10 January 2006 (UTC)

[edit] Neopets: The Darkest Faerie

Hello, I am having trouble finding out how to get through the endless staircase in Act II. I was wondering if someone could help me with that. Thanks!! Zach 02:26, 10 January 2006 (UTC)

If you search google for Neopets: The Darkest Faerie walkthrough, the first page links to this, which is a walkthrough for the entire game. It is done chronologically as the game progresses so don't scroll down past where you are or it will spoil the next part of the game for you. WAvegetarian (talk) (email) (contribs) 07:31, 10 January 2006 (UTC)
You can't link directly to the walkthroughs. You have to go through GameFAQs or GameSpot to get there. [21] --Optichan 15:39, 10 January 2006 (UTC)
Unfortunitly, the walkthrough only goes up until the part right before i need it. Oh well. Zach 22:08, 10 January 2006 (UTC)
While this isn't helpful advice at all, I'll give you the same advice I give my mother, who insists on playing Super Smash Bros. Melee with me, when she can't figure out how to do something. "It just takes practice." All the walkthroughs in the world won't make up for lack of skill. (I learned that the hard way too many times.) Skill can only be gained by wasting your life. So, waste away! Grab a case of Bawls and some Pringles and get crackin'! Cernen Xanthine Katrena 22:27, 10 January 2006 (UTC) (P.S.: GameFAQs are helpful, but some are better written than others. Look at all the walkthroughs available, esp. the ones with the largest file size.)
Yea, thats some good advice alright!! :) I will use it wisely Thanks!! Zach 01:05, 12 January 2006 (UTC)

[edit] world health organisation

please provide me with the answers of the following questions related to the world health day. i am curious to find out more about it.

  1. which countries are the members of this organisation?
  2. what is the world health day?
  3. why is the world health day important?
As stated at the top of the page, we do not answer homework questions. You might start your research at World Health Day and WHO. --WAvegetarian (talk) (email) (contribs) 07:24, 10 January 2006 (UTC)

It might also be useful for you to know that the World Health Organization is an organization within the United Nations. Generally, every nation that is a member of the UN is also a member of each of its organizations. Their individual level of involvement may vary however. User:AlMac|(talk) 10:37, 12 January 2006 (UTC)

[edit] Authenticity of Wikipedia

How is wikipedia different , authentic than other encyclopedia's that are present on net ?

Wikipedia is different in that it is the largest encyclopedia in the world, on the net or otherwise. I'm not quite sure what you mean by "authentic." You can find out more about Wikipedia by clicking on the link in this sentence. That article includes links to further reading if you can't find what you're looking for. You might also look at Wikipedia:Wikipedia Signpost/2005-10-31/Guardian rates articles and Wikipedia:Wikipedia Signpost/2005-12-19/Nature study. WAvegetarian (talk) (email) (contribs) 07:21, 10 January 2006 (UTC)
Wikipedia is written by n00bs, which makes it better than other encyclopedias. --Optichan 15:37, 10 January 2006 (UTC)
Damn right.--Fangz 19:54, 10 January 2006 (UTC)
The Wik is different because here, information is written by people, and checked by people, who know stuff about other stuff. It's not like Encyclopedia Brittanica where you have information that may be useful but not entertaining and/or particularly interesting. Exploding whale is a good example of an entertaining article you won't find in THEIR encyclopedia. Also, how many published works do you know of that have articles on koopa troopas, goombas, Sonic the Hedgehog, and a list of every pricing game on The Price Is Right? We're better because we're not stuffy librarians holed up in some cubicle. We're better because we're actual people who know actual stuff about actual topics. Cernen Xanthine Katrena 11:11, 15 January 2006 (UTC)

[edit] who first said "the first time is an outlier, second is coincidence, third a trend"

I'd like to know who first said the phrase (or most similar to): "the first time is an outlier, second is coincidence, third a trend"

I've found some information below but I can't find the definitive first source, ie. person, page number, book type reference. Thanks in advance! "Once is an accident; twice is a coincidence; three times....a conspiracy" - A.C. Clarke "Once is an accident, twice is a coincidence, three times is enemy action." Old soldier¹s adage. ... work with the old adage: “Once is an accident,twice is a coincidence and three times is proof.” ...living more by the adage, "One is an isolated incident, twice is a coincidence, three times is a pattern." I am reminded of the words of General Baya; "Once is an incident, twice is a coincidence and three times an enemy action." ...reminded of the adage “Once is a fluke, twice is a coincidence, and three times is a pattern” ...based on the old adage that "Once is an accident, twice is a coincidence, but three times makes it true." There's an adage that goes, "once is a fluke, twice is a coincidence, thrice is a trend, four times is a fact, and five times is a conspiracy."

http://c2.com/w4/ploptory/wiki.cgi?AcceptanceCriteriaSummary Jerry Weinberg: "Once is an event; twice is a coincidence; three times is a pattern." "Proving it really is a pattern A pattern description should contain at least three known uses, preferably from different unrelated projects. This is considered important, since otherwise a pattern cannot be distinguished from a clever design which has yet to be proved to be a recurring pattern. Consider Jerry Weinberg: "Once is an event; twice is a coincidence; three times is a pattern.""

Many thanks. drcraig --202.161.14.23 10:05, 10 January 2006 (UTC)

"Once is happenstance, twice is coincidence, third time is enemy action" is a line in the James Bond book Goldfinger, by Ian Fleming. I seem to remember that Auric Goldfinger says it to Bond, describing it as a saying used in Chicago by the famous gangster Al Capone. It's also on the inside front page of the book. I'm not sure if the line is used in the movie of the same name. Proto t c 15:14, 10 January 2006 (UTC)


[edit] Role-play PW

What does PW stand for in computer role-play game parlance? -- SGBailey 11:57, 10 January 2006 (UTC)

It means "Persistent world". --Canley 13:39, 10 January 2006 (UTC)
I suppose the general computer meaning, PassWord, could also apply here. StuRat 06:52, 11 January 2006 (UTC)

[edit] measurement in teaching/definition of standardised achievement test

Do you mean SAT? See that article. СПУТНИКССС Р 13:25, 10 January 2006 (UTC)

[edit] Earliest colour film?

What was the earliest colour film made? (7121989 13:29, 10 January 2006 (UTC))

See the article Color photography. Unless you meant the first colour movie, in which case see Film. --Canley 13:44, 10 January 2006 (UTC)
Thank you
  • I can't remember a specific title, but somewhere in the back of my mind I seem to remember the year 1926 which appears to fit with the Film article's description of the introduction of color in films. - Mgm|(talk) 21:23, 10 January 2006 (UTC)
  • Methinks not. A search of imdb comes up with 234 color films made between 1890 and 1920. Go to http://www.imdb.com/search, click on "power search" on the left, in Section 2 under "Color" choose "Color", under "Year" choose "1890" - "1920". I can find seventeen between 1890 and 1900. Now, I know some of those were probably hand-tinted ... User:Zoe|(talk) 22:56, 10 January 2006 (UTC)
  • Looks like all but two of those 1890s films were hand-painted, the two not listed as such are French - Jules Moy and Mariette Sully. User:Zoe|(talk) 22:59, 10 January 2006 (UTC)

I think the The Wizard of Oz (1939 film) might be one of the earliest major movies with real color, although there were certainly smaller films with color far before that. As for photography, their was a Russian photographer, Prokudin-Gorskii who took 3 pictures of each scene, with different color filters on each, in Tsarist Russia. In recent times those sets of images were each reassambled into a single high quality color photograph. StuRat 06:40, 11 January 2006 (UTC)

The 1935 film Becky Sharp [22] is considered the first full length technicolour film. Bonus points to whoever knows which former US First Lady appeared in this film. --Roisterer 11:11, 18 January 2006 (UTC)
I never would have guessed her. CambridgeBayWeather (Talk) 11:33, 18 January 2006 (UTC)

[edit] Is there a technical term for the event horizon of a sneeze?

And if there isn't, can we invent one? Kid Apathy 15:01, 10 January 2006 (UTC)

I have one! Sternuofinitor! Kid Apathy 15:10, 10 January 2006 (UTC)
I would think it would just be called the range. This is an important thing to know if you want to avoid catching the flu this winter. StuRat 06:30, 11 January 2006 (UTC)
Good point. I once read that the range isn't too great. If you're sitting opposite someone in a train that distance should be safe. But I now realise that someone who sneezes flexes forward (is that good English?). And this may very well be the reason for that (from the flu's point of view, that is).
By the way, the event horizon of a sneeze would be where nothing escapes it anymore. It would make more sense to speak of the event horizon of taking a deep breath. :) DirkvdM 08:17, 11 January 2006 (UTC)
I've heard the range is quite long, say 20 feet, since light droplets of snot and saliva can stay aloft for quite a while. It's a good idea to avoid this "sneeze zone" for a few minutes until everything settles down. You could still touch a saliva drop on a surface, but that's less likely to infect you than inhaling it. StuRat 10:44, 11 January 2006 (UTC)
No, I mean like the point where you can't stop a sneeze coming. I can never reach that point, even when I have a cold. It's super irritating. (this is Kid, btw) 81.77.50.85 11:06, 11 January 2006 (UTC)
Hmm, "point of no return", "tipping point", or "critical mass" might be better terms for that. I wonder if you have other weak involuntary responses, like the vomit response. On the plus side, I'll bet you don't get hiccups, which is a malfunction of this involuntary response system. StuRat 11:49, 11 January 2006 (UTC)
Oh, that's annoying. A good sneeze is as good as an orgasm (well, close, anyway). We've already had two threads about a trick to get a sneeze going. Looking up into the sun or even a lightbulb can help. For me, after a while, just looking up sufficed. And now I only need to think about it. It's psychosomatic or something, I suppose. See also Photic sneeze reflex. DirkvdM 09:23, 12 January 2006 (UTC)

[edit] Problem with PSP

i have a psp and i was exiting the game star wars battlefront II after it crashed, so i pressed 'home' and then 'yes' to exit to the 'home' but now it just says 'please wait' with a grey screen i can't switch it off either what can do?

Aren't PSPs notorious for breaking? Just like Xbox 360s. Stupid screwy breaking things. Kid Apathy 15:31, 10 January 2006 (UTC)
That really isn't an answer to a question, Kid Apathy. Perhaps you could find another area of Wikipedia where you would be able to be more constructive. Try pulling the battery out and putting it back in. If it's still broken, you may have damaged the flash memory, so you may want to call the Technical Support line listed in the documentation for your country, and cross your fingers that your PSP is still under warranty. Proto t c 15:35, 10 January 2006 (UTC)
No real need to jump down my neck like that. Kid Apathy 15:37, 10 January 2006 (UTC)
Sigh. See your talk page. Proto t c 15:55, 10 January 2006 (UTC)
Thank you
I think being told that a product is prone to breakdown would be useful info. This makes it more likely that it is broken beyond repair and needs to be replaced, which is one possible legitimate answer. And I don't mind going a bit off subject on occasion myself, like "what's with those PSP ads that say 'It's like portable cheese you can listen to'. How many video games do you have to play for this type of ad to make sense to you ?" StuRat 06:25, 11 January 2006 (UTC)
We had a PSP in the Netherlands too, but they went green and left. DirkvdM 08:19, 11 January 2006 (UTC)
You probobly could call Sony's technical support line and ask them, yourself, it's probobly still under waranty. Deathawk 15:36, 14 January 2006 (UTC)

[edit] New York City block -- average size

What are the dimensions (in feet) of an average New York City block?

Uhm... if I knew the number of blocks in NY, then I could figure it out. But I can't find that out anywhere. It's pretty difficult to define a "block", if NYC is anything like London. There are 26537.216828478964401294498381877 people per square mile in NYC, though. I think. (This is my attempt at a useful answer.) Kid Apathy 16:52, 10 January 2006 (UTC)
I Googled "new york city block length" and found: 20 uptown/downtown blocks and 10 crosstown blocks equal approximately one mile. That puts the average downtown Manhattan block at about 530 ft by 260 ft. Also, Kid, please respect WP:POINT. Population density to 30 significant figures is patently useless. — Lomn | Talk / RfC 19:59, 10 January 2006 (UTC)
The streets are about 250 ft apart and the avenues vary but are about 2 to 3 times further apart than the streets. hydnjo talk 20:08, 10 January 2006 (UTC)
That given population density is off by several orders of magnitudes. Keep in mind NYC has millions of residents while its total area is measured in square miles in the single digits. --Cyde Weys votetalk 05:25, 11 January 2006 (UTC)
Our article puts it at 309 square miles, with a pop of 8.2 million, which is how Kid Apathy got his correct, if excessively accurate, answer. StuRat 06:11, 11 January 2006 (UTC)

Kid Apathy, check Significant figures deeptrivia (talk) 05:51, 11 January 2006 (UTC)

My fav sig digits joke:
Kid: "Hey mister, how old is that dinosaur skeleton ?"
Security guard: "200,000,007 years old"
Kid: "How do you know so exactly ?"
Security guard: "Well, it was 200,000,000 years old when I started working here 7 years ago, so..."
My fav significant digits usage: I've seen products in the store, with expiration dates several months away, which specify not only the year, month, and day, but also the hour and minute the product expires. I am contemplating writing them a letter criticizing their negligence at failing to include seconds, LOL. StuRat 06:16, 11 January 2006 (UTC)

(I was writing this simultaneously and had an edit conflict. I'll post it anyway; apologies for the partial duplication.)

According to New York City, the city's population is 8.2 million and the area is 309 square miles (which is not in single digits). But these aren't exact numbers; the population is probably being rounded to the nearest 0.1 million and the area to the nearest square mile. There is no point in giving the population density to any greater accuracy: all you can say is that it's about 26,500, and the "5" is questionable. (There are more precise ways to express the uncertainty, of course.)

And then it's even worse than that. I was suspicious about that 309 square miles because it converts to exactly 800 km²; I wondered if someone had started with a metric figure to the nearest 100 km² and converted it with spurious accuracy. So I did some web searching and found that Wikipedia's New York metropolitan area article, as well as the Encarta and Information Please web sites, agree on an area of 303 square miles for the city. (Encarta gives areas of individual boroughs to one decimal place in some cases, too, and the five areas as given total 303.3 square miles.) But the city's official web site gives the area as 321 square miles, and some other sites show that number too. So we can say at least that the 309 is not necessarily accurate to the nearest square mile.

When people say "New York City", sometimes they mean the Borough of Manhattan alone. The original poster's reference to blocks suggests that that was the intended meaning. Likewise for the answers by Lomn and Hydnjo. Blocks in the other boroughs are a good deal more varied. Manhattan has an area of only 23 square miles (still not single digits, but getting there) and a population of over 1.5 million; its population density is around 70,000 per square mile.

--Anonymous, 06:30 UTC, January 11, 2006.

  • cries* I was trying to help. Kid Apathy 11:10, 11 January 2006 (UTC)

[edit] asking how old is a site in NE Ohio

I have found a site in ohio that has untouched fossil remains of plants and small living items of long ago. I plan a site draft soon. Now my question is how do i find out how old this this region in north east Ohio is? Is there a site I can go to.

Thank you for any and all help Mike from Ohio

Here is a start: geological maps of Ohio [23]. I am assuming you know how to match up geological era with typical fossils. alteripse 17:58, 10 January 2006 (UTC)

  • If you think the site is potentially of any scientific interest, I strongly suggest you contact Ohio State University and tell them about your find. An uninformed amateur excavation could seriously damage the paleontological record and deprive from human understanding rare remains that have been preserved for millions of years. If they do find anything interesting there, by the way, you'll be first in line to have a species named after you.--Pharos 00:05, 11 January 2006 (UTC)
  • You'd better hope they don't name a parasitic worm that lives in the human rectum after you. StuRat 10:39, 11 January 2006 (UTC)

I think you should revise your question to "how old is this site at a depth of ...". You could mean the surface, or a depth of zero, or some other depth. Typically, but not always, the deeper you go, the older you go. StuRat 06:05, 11 January 2006 (UTC)

[edit] ISO CONTAINER USED FOR HOUSING

LOOKING FOR IDEAS ON CONVERTING ISO CONTAINERS INTO A SECOND HOME. THINKING OF USING 4-6 CONTAINERS.WILL NEED ALL THE COMFORTS OF HOME , AND BE WEATHERTIGHT , AND BE ABLE TO HANDLE SNOW LOADS IN NORTHERN N.E. WOULD BE INTERESTED IN THE FACTS ABOUT LOAD ON THE CONTAINERS AND HOW SOMEONE ELSE HAS INSTALLED WINDOWS AND DOORS . WOULD ALSO LIKE TO KNOW WHAT THE LARGEST OPEN SPAN COULD BE IN THE SIDE , AND HOW FAR THE CONTAINER COULD BE SPANNED OVER OTHER CONTAINERS WITH LARGE OPENINGS IN THE SIDES. —Preceding unsigned comment added by 65.198.133.72 (talk • contribs)

Why do you want to live in a freight container? --Optichan 18:30, 10 January 2006 (UTC)
From the top of this page:Be courteous - questions are answered by humans, not computers. This is not a search engine. Leaving a quick "Thank you" note if you found an answer useful would be polite. Don't write in ALL CAPITAL LETTERS.
As for your question, take a look at Containerization and Shipping Container Architecture. Also, this and that for external links. hydnjo talk 19:12, 10 January 2006 (UTC)
I believe temperature control will be a problem. They are not well insulated, so tend to get very cold at night in winter and very hot during the days in the summer. Perhaps there are insulated shipping containers, but those might be harder to obtain. Some type of spray-on foam insulation might be the easiest way to improve the situation, but certainly won't look very appealing. You could put some sheet rock up to give it a nice homey look inside, I suppose, maybe along with a suspended ceiling and linoleum floor. The outside will tend to rust over time, but it will be many years before the rust perforates to the interior. Still, it could look quite hideous with rust stains on the sides. A nice brick wall around the shipping container would improve the looks immensely and also help the insulation. StuRat 06:56, 11 January 2006 (UTC)
I didn't read the question because I abhor shouting.
Might this reply be made into a template? DirkvdM 08:22, 11 January 2006 (UTC)
Done, Dirk. {{User:Cernen/Template:nocapsplz|~~~~}} generates:
Please do not write your questions in all caps text. It is much harder to read than normal questions and frustrates reference desk personnel. Your question may be deleted if you see this notice; you should reformat it to prevent this from happening. Cernen Xanthine Katrena 10:57, 11 January 2006 (UTC)
. Cernen Xanthine Katrena 10:43, 11 January 2006 (UTC)
Thanks. That's quite a bit stronger than what I wrote. Actually, I wonder if we're allowed to do this. Of course we could just post the message and not actually delete, but I don't like making loose threats. Let's see what happens. :) DirkvdM 09:36, 12 January 2006 (UTC)

[edit] Looking for celebrated birth anniversary date of Guru Nanak in the year 1970.

I've been looking for calendars of the year 1970 to check on which date in that year Guru Nanak's birthday anniversary was celebrated. Please let me know if such calendars or references exist.

Thanks for the help.

Neelu P.

If you check 1970 you see that it was a Common year starting on Thursday. CambridgeBayWeather (Talk) 21:10, 10 January 2006 (UTC)
It falls on the full moon day of the Kaartika month. Maybe this information will help someone find it for you. deeptrivia (talk) 05:49, 11 January 2006 (UTC)

[edit] Taxes and social security number

I am an employer who has several general contractors. I recently was told that one of my contractors gave me the wrong social security number for his form 1099. Does he have to pay income for his mistake or can he get away with not reporting the 1099 back? Is there any negative effect on me for reporting the wrong ss# on his form?

While I can't answer your question directly I would suggest that you be upfront with your tax department about what happened. At the same time notify the contractor that you are going to advise the tax people. If you don't inform the tax department and then they find out they might wonder what else you have been doing, even if it's all above board. CambridgeBayWeather (Talk) 21:30, 10 January 2006 (UTC)
If this was a Form 1099 for the year 2005, and you know the correct social security number for the payee, the Form 1099 instructions explain how to correct the error. [24] If you don't know the person's actual SSN, things will be more complicated; contact an attorney. This is not intended as legal advice. You should make an effort to correct the error, particularly if the SSN belongs to somebody else; if the error is not corrected, the IRS will treat the actual holder of that SSN as having received the income and tax them accordingly. --Metropolitan90 02:30, 11 January 2006 (UTC)
Yes he has to report the income correctly and pay any tax due. There's not likely any liability to you for the initial error, but there could be if you don't fix it now that you've found out. - Taxman Talk 16:58, 13 January 2006 (UTC)

[edit] Wikipedia Servers

What's the address of the (Florida) building that contains the Wikipedia servers? I'd like to find it on Google Earth, but I can't find the address. smurrayinchester(User), (Talk) 21:28, 10 January 2006 (UTC) Laser-painting the building of the Wikipedia servers for an airstrike is not allowed. But, if you need the address...well, it's a secret the Cabal doesn't want you to know about. (The building, however, is in Tampa; perhaps a cursory search of the phone book will give you what you're looking for?) Cernen Xanthine Katrena 10:40, 11 January 2006 (UTC)

Curses! My plan is ruined! Digruntled Britannica Employee 15:07, 11 January 2006 (UTC)
I've found it anyway. There seem to be two, a couple of miles apart, here and here. smurrayinchester(User), (Talk) 15:14, 11 January 2006 (UTC)
Aren't the servers themselves in a colocation centre? —Charles P. (Mirv) 15:18, 11 January 2006 (UTC)
(answering myself) Yes they are, and to the best of my knowledge it is somewhere near here: [25] —Charles P. (Mirv) 16:11, 11 January 2006 (UTC)

Huh, I thought they were in St. Petersburg, on the opposite shore of Tampa Bay (that's cool if they are in Tampa though, I happen to have been born in Tampa and would be honored to hail from the same city as Wikipedia). Yeltensic42.618 don't panic 23:38, 11 January 2006 (UTC)

Well, this says Tampa. But it does say in large letters "Do not rely on any information on this page being up-to-date or correct". style="color:#00AA77">inchester(User), (Talk) 14:39, 13 January 2006 (UTC)

Apparently, 412 East Madison Street Suite 1100 Tampa, Florida 33602, according to [26]. Night Gyr 09:34, 14 January 2006 (UTC)

[edit] Neopets.com

How do you give somebody neopoints on neopets? I was told there was a way...

Try Neopets. O_o Cernen Xanthine Katrena 22:32, 10 January 2006 (UTC)
As far as I know, no way to give actual Neopoints. I've been looking for months. However, check the Help guides on the site. (In all honesty, hat was the first place you should've looked!) --JB Adder | Talk 23:30, 10 January 2006 (UTC)
There's no way to do it that I can think of without exchanging items as well. For instance, you could buy something from that person's shop. You could also theoretically do it through the trading post. Have that person put an item up for trade, and offer to trade him/her a junk item and np. Hbackman 01:11, 12 January 2006 (UTC)

[edit] Drum Magazine

What exactly is a drum magazine for the smg (submachine gun)?

A drum magazine is a magazine that looks like a drum.  :-P I don't know if any modern guns use one but the old "Tommy guns" used them. It was as if you took a very long magazine and started rolling it up like a blanket so that it had a round appearance. And for some reason, we don't have an article on them... A google image search turned up this picture and this picture. Dismas|(talk) 22:52, 10 January 2006 (UTC)
Actually, there are some modern refinements and derivatives, the Beta-C Mag is one. It's a double drum that fits standard NATO .223, 7.62x51 or 9mm mag slots. Drum mags aren't very common these days because of the added complexity and weight compared to using a straight mag or a belt feed in a bag. They're harder to load and harder to tuck away in a convienent pocket. Night Gyr 09:25, 14 January 2006 (UTC)

[edit] Historical World Population

If we look at the world population since the first human being existed until actual times, are there more people dead (that have died since the first human being until now) or alive today (the 6.7+ Billion people that exists today).

In other words... Which is true?: Population Alive Today > Population that have died since the first human being that existed. Or the contrary?

Thanks, Raul Dominican Republic

  • It's usually estimated that there have been (very roughly) 100 billion members of Homo sapiens over the course of the species' approx. 100,000-year history. Of course, for the vast majority of that long epoch, the population was much smaller than it is today; it is their endurance that gives the prehistoric population its census advantage.--Pharos 23:47, 10 January 2006 (UTC)
*Are humans (alive today) > (total dead)? Is this your question (please respond in some way). hydnjo talk 03:21, 11 January 2006 (UTC)
So, roughly 7 percent as many people are alive now as are dead. For people who believe in ghosts, this would mean the Earth would be clogged with them. And, if they stay where they lived or died, ancient cities with large historic populations, like Rome and Baghdad, would be even more crowded, so crowded you couldn't take a step without walking through one. Only places never much inhabited, like Antarctica, would be sparsely populated with ghosts. StuRat 04:20, 11 January 2006 (UTC)
Well, since this is obviously the silly season: those who believe in ghosts are quite likely to also believe in reincarnation. It is said a spirit is reincarnated many, many times into different bodies. So there are probably far, far fewer ghosts than c. 93 billion. Possibly only about 1 billion (but that's as scientific a guess as I can manage today, sorry). JackofOz 07:14, 11 January 2006 (UTC)
All of the reincarnation beliefs that I am familiar with are at odds with the existence of ghosts. After a being has successfully passed through the highest level of reincarnation, said being either starts over again or dissolves into the universal spirit. WAvegetarian (talk) (email) (contribs) 08:32, 11 January 2006 (UTC)
That's cruel. After a few billion years you've finally worked your way up from microbe to enlightenment and then you have to start all over again? Or can microbes also be enlightened? DirkvdM 08:37, 11 January 2006 (UTC)

[edit] January 11

[edit] Most Educated Person

Who, living or dead, has received the most master's/doctorate degrees? —Preceding unsigned comment added by 66.255.16.50 (talk • contribs)

Do you mean to include honorary degrees granted to esteemed personalities or only those earned (by scholarship) degrees? hydnjo talk 03:31, 11 January 2006 (UTC)
I mean only those earned.
I only asked that question to stall for time and I'm still stumped :-( --hydnjo talk 21:18, 11 January 2006 (UTC)
I'm guessing Francis Nigel Lee, but be warned, googling suggests that all those with more than five or six doctorates have earned most of them in religion-oriented subjects. I will refrain from comments about the relative ease with which one can earn degrees in fairy tales. —James S. 22:41, 11 January 2006 (UTC)
Nice use of paralipsis! —Keenan Pepper 01:57, 13 January 2006 (UTC)
I can't refrain from adding this : "His wife Nellie is in Fulltime Christian Service as a godly Homemaker." Aw, bless. Natgoo 23:10, 11 January 2006 (UTC)
Erasmus is sometimes credited as the last man to know everything. After that the sphere of human knowledge became too large. He obviously didn't have the internut. MeltBanana 02:38, 12 January 2006 (UTC)

[edit] linseed oil

is linseed oil hazardous to animals also linseed oil mixed with motor oil and turpentine. is this mixture hazardous to animals helen

I don't know about pure linseed oil, but that mixture would certainly be harmful if they consumed it. StuRat 04:14, 11 January 2006 (UTC)
Linseed oil isn't toxic by ingestion, although I for one wouldn't drink it. (I suspect it may give you diarrhea, as can any oil in enough quantity). Motor oil isn't terribly toxic either, but again, I wouldn't drink it. Turpentine is toxic and dangerous to ingest, to inhale and in skin contact. So the mixture would be dangerous. An additional warning: Linseed oil oxidizes in air, and rags soaked in it are known to self-ignite and start a fire, especially if they're put in a confined space where the heat of oxidation cannot escape. Wash them with water before disposing of them. --BluePlatypus 05:17, 11 January 2006 (UTC)
A distinction should be made between new motor oil, which should be safe except for some additives which might be toxic, and used motor oil, which is likely to contain a soup of toxic chemicals. StuRat 05:44, 11 January 2006 (UTC)
Rather surprisingly, Wikipedia has an article on Linseed oil, where it is pointed out that what is sold as boiled linseed oil is inedible. That means it is hazardous to animals. Words like "kidney failure" in the article on turpentine also indicates that it can be hazardous to animals. Chris the speller 04:24, 16 January 2006 (UTC)

[edit] earth

why does the earth rotate? —Preceding unsigned comment added by 210.214.168.155 (talk • contribs)

And you're convinced that the earth rotates because? hydnjo talk 04:14, 11 January 2006 (UTC)
Aristotle told me so. --BluePlatypus 05:39, 11 January 2006 (UTC)
Did he? I doubt that! Greeks hardly knew a thing about it. deeptrivia (talk) 05:45, 11 January 2006 (UTC)
Not knowing anything about it never stopped the ancient Greeks! --BluePlatypus 22:33, 11 January 2006 (UTC)
Because of the Foucault pendulum. Chuck 20:10, 11 January 2006 (UTC)

The Earth roates now because it has since it was formed and "an object in motion (rotational, in this case) stays in motion unless another force acts upon it". It formed from a rotating cloud due to the solar system's rotation. The solar system's rotation is due to the Milky Way galaxy's rotation, which is due to an uneven distribution of mass following the Big Bang. Now, what caused that, we don't know. StuRat 05:48, 11 January 2006 (UTC)

Most planets rotate in the direction in which they evolve around the Sun. You'd think that if the initial rotating disk was faster at the centre that at the rim that would be the other way around. But I recently heard (if I remember correctly) that galaxies rotate faster at the rim. Which is counterintuitive, although I can't really say why. Maybe I'm used to the driving force of a rotating disk being at the centre (as in human engineering) and there being friction at the rim. But that doesn't apply here. Still, I see no reason why it is the way it is. DirkvdM 08:47, 11 January 2006 (UTC)
Yea. galaxies are weird. They don't seem to behave the way one would expect. This is an argument for hidden matter and forces. StuRat 10:34, 11 January 2006 (UTC)

[edit] What is that droning sound one hears when one is surrounded by complete silence?

That high-pitched sound you can hear when you're at home and everything is completely silent.--Fito 04:35, 11 January 2006 (UTC)

  • I know exactly what you mean. Composer John Cage had a similar experience. Cage went to a soundproof room, but heard two drones. An engineer told him the high drone was his nervous system operating, while the low one was his blood flowing. Sadly, the engineer probably wasn't right. (See 4'33" for the rest of the fascinating story.) I don't think anyone's sure, though it may be a mild case of tinnitus. Deltabeignet 04:55, 11 January 2006 (UTC)
  • Like in Simon and Garfunkel's The Sound of Silence? Nah, I know what you mean, I hear it too sometimes. It's not high-pitched (for me) but more like an ocean's wave roar. I thought I was the only one! hydnjo talk 04:57, 11 January 2006 (UTC)

For what it's worth when I am in complete silence I am actually in complete silence, and I suspect it is this way for at least some other people out there too. Sad to say, your hearing is probably defective; most likely it is tinnitus. --Cyde Weys votetalk 05:23, 11 January 2006 (UTC)

I hear it too. I think there may be "background noises", like mild breezes rustling dust around, that are below the level of perception normally, but become audible when everyday sounds are removed. StuRat 05:37, 11 January 2006 (UTC)
Tinnitus may be part of the answer. But even for people with no tinnitus, when in complete external silence (which assumes the person is at complete rest) they can still hear some of their own internal processes such as heart beat, blood flow through the ears, etc. To that degree, there probably is no such thing, for a sentient being with hearing, as "complete silence". JackofOz 05:55, 11 January 2006 (UTC)
Probably not what you meant, but I sometimes hear a very high pitch (at the very top of my hearing range) that suddenly sets in and then dies away in a few seconds. I've always assumed that that is my hearing deteriorating (as is normal as one gets older) by a hair cell dying on me. DirkvdM 08:53, 11 January 2006 (UTC)
No, that's a nerve dying, just as you thought, and you can hear those even at normal noise levels. It is odd that it's always a high pitched one, why don't bass nerves die like that ? StuRat 10:20, 11 January 2006 (UTC)
If you only hear it at home it could be the cooling fans present inside so many electrical appliances. Or other electrical effects (e.g. some kinds of lighting may make a noise). Boy is it quiet here when there is a power cut. Notinasnaid 10:03, 11 January 2006 (UTC)

I had an interesting silence related experience once....I was doing the laundry, had both the washer and dryer going, and the A/C and also had the TV and several lights on, then I found a pill bug/rolly-polly/armadillo bug on the wall. I flushed it down the toilet, and right as it disappeared the house went dark and silent. Before I figure out it was the fuse I thought, "oh damn, that bug must have been God, and now I've gone and destroyed the universe." StuRat 10:27, 11 January 2006 (UTC)

Possibly the "complete silence" you are hearing is not really silence at all. You may be hearing stuff that you normally tune out. Also silence in your house is louder than silence when you are 100 miles away from any other person out on the tundra. To actually do that is to really "hear silence". CambridgeBayWeather (Talk) 21:16, 11 January 2006 (UTC)

I would think that there's some wind on the tundra. For the best example of places to go to "hear" absolute silence, I'd suggest a cave. Deepest you can find. No wind and any noise from the outside world would be dampened to nothing by the surrounding dirt/rock. Dismas|(talk) 21:23, 11 January 2006 (UTC)
I did mean on a calm day. It's a very strange experience. I just thought that possibly the house sound may be releated to the sound you hear when you put a seashell to your ear and would not a cave have the same effect? It may well be that the only place you could find a complete absence of noise is in a specially designed room. CambridgeBayWeather (Talk) 12:08, 12 January 2006 (UTC)

Some cathode ray tubes can emit a high pitched sound, probably a sub-resonance of the horizontal scan rate (the actual scan rate is well above our hearing range.) You might find it goes away if you turn off all televisions and computer monitors in your house. Hearing decays with age; I used to be able to hear a television a room away, but no longer. Sdedeo (tips) 23:59, 12 January 2006 (UTC)

I hear it too. I've heard that males loose high-pitched hearing first, and woman loose low-pitched hearing first. It might have something to do with it, being that males hear high-pitched and females low, or vise versa, so on... --Anonymous

[edit] Car Restoration

Hi, can you help me locate article regarding car retoration tips ? Iam a amateaur or new in car restoration that needs help. I will be glad to recieve any article on the said topics. topics like rust prevention or convertion , best way to remove rust , how to clean metals , etc. thanks210.213.163.179 04:55, 11 January 2006 (UTC)

You must decide what type of restoration you want to do. Some don't care a bit about the "historic" value of the car, and just want to tear out all the old junk and get a decent car out of the deal. Others are so extreme about keeping everything "original" that they keep unsafe features (like a lack of seat belts) and unsightly features (like oxidized, ugly old paint). Most restorers are somewhere in-between on this continuum. StuRat 05:40, 11 January 2006 (UTC)

[edit] Cooking oil

Why does boiling oil pop? -Tim Rhymeless (Er...let's shimmy) 08:26, 11 January 2006 (UTC)

Pure oil doesn't. The "pop" is from water boiling in the oil. When the water turns to steam it rushes to the top pushing oil along with it. It can be sudden and explosive giving the audible "pop".WAvegetarian (talk) (email) (contribs) 08:41, 11 January 2006 (UTC)

[edit] relationship bitween ships price and tonnage

hi please send me any kind information about relationship bitween ships price and tonnage like as text, graph,news etc. thanks

What do you mean by "ship's price"? Construction cost positively correlates strongly with tonnage. Shipping costs would tend to have a weak positive correlation, though there's generally little direct competition between very large and very small cargo ships. Passage costs would have no correlation to tonnage. — Lomn | Talk / RfC 14:35, 11 January 2006 (UTC)
Could you read through tonnage and say if you mean the amount of cargo it can hold or the actual size of a ship. A ship of the type used in the America's Cup or an executive vessel as used by the stereotypical Greek shipping magnate is going to be very expensive for it's size. CambridgeBayWeather (Talk) 15:55, 11 January 2006 (UTC)

[edit] Lawsuits against Wikipedia

Hi, I was just wondering if there have been any lawsuits against Wikipedia for any reason. So, have there been? 68.143.166.174 14:18, 11 January 2006 (UTC)

There have been innumerable threats to sue Wikipedia, its editors, and the Wikimedia Foundation. None of them, as far as I know, have ever made it to court. Someday one will. Libel (think Seigenthaler) and copyright infringement seem the most likely grounds. —Charles P. (Mirv) 15:13, 11 January 2006 (UTC)
This is why we have No legal threats. smurrayinchester(User), (Talk) 15:15, 11 January 2006 (UTC)
And demand that editers cite sources TomStar81 17:55, 11 January 2006 (UTC)
And' ask that our editors not be dicks. Cernen Xanthine Katrena 20:00, 11 January 2006 (UTC)
Before reading above links, my first reaction is "we don't sell anything". It's all for free, for you to use. If you don't like it, don't use it. Your decision, not ours. As for the copyrights, this is not a book. It's a place where people can dump their knowledge. If that is copyrighted info, then who would you sue? The owners of the hardware (whoever they are)? They just provide a service, not the info. If I transmit copyrighted info over the internet, could my ISP be sued for that? This is entirely new ground that laws have not been devised for and I don't know a solution either. Well, I do, but it's rather radical. People would start calling me a communist. (oh dear....). DirkvdM 19:28, 11 January 2006 (UTC)
It's not that new. Wikipedia is subject to the Digital Millennium Copyright Act, which outlines ways for demanding the takedown of copyrighted material online. The owners of the hardware are the Wikimedia Foundation, who are also the owners of Wikipedia. --Fastfission 15:31, 15 January 2006 (UTC)
The is this site: http://www.wikipediaclassaction.org/ - Akamad 19:45, 11 January 2006 (UTC)
Have you read this site? It does not read like it was written by someone who knows what he or she is doing. Here's a sentence from the introductory paragraph: "The system is full of problems and these are intentional in design and purposeful in their intent; to cause harm, to permit and encourage a system of anonymous libel and we submit, the result of Wales' deep-seated upset with ridicule he suffered the result of his porn business; something like the way that Richard Desmond acts because he has never quite been accepted into 'society' because of his King of Porn history. Similarly, Wales uses Wikipedia to libel and 'get back' of those he doesn't like..."
"his...upset with ridicule?" "he suffered the result of his porn buisness?" "something like the way that?" "uses Wikipedia to 'get back" of those he doesn't like?" Who the heck wrote this thing, my nine-year-old nephew? Mitchell k dwyer 19:53, 11 January 2006 (UTC)
Followup. I ran a WHOIS on the site and then googled the registrant. Turns out I'm not the first person to do so--this thing's all over the web. The registrant, Jennifer Monroe, is also the registrant of QuakeAID's website. It's kind of an amusing saga. Mitchell k dwyer 20:22, 11 January 2006 (UTC)
LOL. If anyone is guilty of libel and copyright infringement it's them, though I doubt if this is really meant seriously. :)
I find it wonderfully ironic that they accuse of Wikipedia being sourceless, inaccurate and hateful how? By being sourceless, inaccurate and hateful. smurrayinchester(User), (Talk) 16:05, 12 January 2006 (UTC)
Still, I wonder who can be said to be the owners. Wikipedia runs on gifts and the ones who use that money to buy hardware simply provide a service. They don't own the stuff. To stress this point, could they at one point say, ok this is a nice set of hardware. Let's sell it and retire. If they could not legally do that, they're not the owners, are they? So neither the info nor the hardware is owned by anyone. DirkvdM 19:54, 11 January 2006 (UTC)
Don't forget Jeff Merkey. Anyone who dares edit his article seems to get threated with legal action and ends up on his hate page.
  • That site is completely nonsensical. I stopped reading after finding the sentence you cited. "The system is full of problems and these are intentional in design and purposeful in their intent; to cause harm, to permit and encourage a system of anonymous libel". We encourage citation of sources and work to remove any libel we are told about and we also encourage friendly discussion and concensus building. Nothing is designed to cause harm, so they clearly have some issues. - Mgm|(talk) 10:12, 12 January 2006 (UTC)
Time to update: see Tron (hacker) aka Boris Floricic. Elle vécut heureuse à jamais (Be eudaimonic!) 20:54, 14 January 2006 (UTC)

[edit] dumb blonde jokes

What is the origin of dumb blonde jokes? When did they originate? Where? By whom?

The origin is most likely linked to the stereotype of the dumb blonde. And as with any stereotype, jokes get made about it. Every race and ethnicity and etc. has a stereotype which seems to have a joke about it, so why not blondes? Dismas|(talk) 19:30, 11 January 2006 (UTC)
In that case, why aren't there any brunette jokes? --Shantavira 19:44, 11 January 2006 (UTC)
Okay, "Most every race, ethnicity, etc...." Dismas|(talk) 19:52, 11 January 2006 (UTC)
The Blond article says that "Caucasian babies are generally born with the slightest wisp of fair hair". In the next section it goes on to say "Some research suggests that fair hair, being characteristic of young children, evokes parent-like feelings of affection and protection in others. This association with children may also be the cause of the common Western stereotype of blonde women as being unintelligent..." In other words we associate blond hair with child like behaviour. CambridgeBayWeather (Talk) 21:06, 11 January 2006 (UTC)
Any blonde joke can be told as a brunette joke. For instance: Why are blonde jokes usually short? So brunettes can remember them. --WAvegetarian (talk) (email) (contribs) 22:11, 11 January 2006 (UTC)
I have one. It's about blondes too, though.
  • Why did God create blondes?
  • The sheep couldn't fetch beer in the fridge!
  • Then, why did God create brunettes?
  • Neither could the blondes...
TERdON
My guess is that there was a fad for women to dye their hair blonde at some point in the 20th Century (most likely the 1940s or 1950s). Combine that with a single hugely popular example of the stereotypical "ditzy blonde" (think Marilyn Monroe or any of a number of early 1950s tv stars), and the emergence of the jokes became almost inevitable. --Aaron 22:17, 11 January 2006 (UTC)

[edit] 17-pack of chewing gum?

Why does gum come in 17-packs? Most items come in 6- or 10- or 12-packs, and 17 seems like such an arbitrary number. I searched the recent archives for this (obvious) question already, but couldn't find a place where it was asked. Tigger89 18:43, 11 January 2006 (UTC)

Maybe it makes the pack up to a particular weight, or particular dimension, that is popular with retailers: standard sizes make shelf stacking easier. Notinasnaid 18:47, 11 January 2006 (UTC)
Or it could be that this was the largest that the particular machinery in use at the factories when this size was introduced could handle. (I have a 17-pack here and I note that the dimension through the 17 sticks is exactly 4 cm. Coincidence? Could be.) Another reason odd sizes happen is that the makers start with a round-number size, then decide to manipulate the market by enlarging or reducing it a bit. They might start with a 20-pack, then decide to raise the price by keeping the price the same and reducing it to 18, then 17 sticks. Or conversely they might start with 15, then say "now 2 extra sticks" to produce a temporary price reduction, then later raise the price to match. This sort of thing goes on all the time with all sorts of products, although I'm not aware of any earlier size of 17-packs of gum. --Anonymous, 21:25 UTC, January 11.
This is pure conjecture on my part, but these days most manufacturers engage in a lot of research to determine just what size/amount of a given product at a given price will result in maximum profits for the company. For example (and I'm just making these numbers up for the sake of argument), if you sell a bottle of Coca-Cola for 99 cents, it may prove to be more beneficial for Coke to make that bottle contain 20 oz. of liquid instead of 16 oz., because otherwise consumers may think they're not getting their money's worth. A million variables can go into this sort of thing; here in the U.S., Coke is sold in 8 oz. bottles and cans, 12 oz. cans, 16 oz. glass bottles, 16.9 oz. plastic bottles, 20 oz. bottles, 1 liter bottles, 2 liter bottles ... and probably several other sizes I'm not aware of. In each case, Coke spends a huge amount of time researching precisely how to price each size to maximize sales. So what does this have to do with gum? Perhaps the 17-pack was a very early example of such research; it's possible Wrigley Gum experimented with an 18-pack and discovered it didn't increase sales, and that a 16-pack did cause a decrease in sales, thus the 17-pack was decided upon as the most profitable size for the price. --Aaron 21:51, 11 January 2006 (UTC)
This is also pure speculation on my part, but sometimes these sizes are dictated by the manufacturing or packaging process. For example, perhaps the strips of paper that make the individual wrappers for the sticks of gum divide easily in such a way that you can get seventeen wrappers from one unit of paper, or perhaps the gum itself dictates a convenient seventeen-stick unit, perhaps as a quarter of a pound, or one rotation of the machinery that processes the sticks. Mitchell k dwyer 03:11, 12 January 2006 (UTC)

[edit] Making Money

How can I make a lot of money with the least amount of work? I don't want to do anything illegal, and I don't want to work too hard because I am lazy. I also have no money to start with so I can't have other people do the work for me. Is there a get rich scheme that really works? Is there anyone with a little money to spare that may feel sorry for me? Also, does anyone know the contact info for Donald Trump or Bill Gates? Any help would be greatly appreciated. Thanks!

Alright, I'll point out the obvious. What do you think someone who knew would do with that knowledge? Tell you? DirkvdM 19:22, 11 January 2006 (UTC)
Get rich schemes are scams that only work for the people who take money from you. Find something you feel really enthusiatic about, preferably in a growth industry. That will at least snap you out of your laziness. --Shantavira 19:48, 11 January 2006 (UTC)
Well, strictly speaking there's one exception. Marry a rich person. That takes only a little work, but a lot of luck :) --Ornil 22:27, 11 January 2006 (UTC)
All you need is a dollar and a dream. --Aaron 21:40, 11 January 2006 (UTC)

Sales jobs can earn you a lot of money with very little work. The trick is, you need to have a certain personality type to do it. You need to treat everyone like your best friend then rip these "friends" off at the first opportunity. If this is you, then go into sales. StuRat 03:15, 12 January 2006 (UTC)

Gift economy. ;-) Elle vécu heureuse à jamais (Be eudaimonic!) 03:23, 12 January 2006 (UTC)

Have you considered prostitution? User:Zoe|(talk) 00:09, 13 January 2006 (UTC)

Or Pornography, which is safer - I understand that they make hundreds of dollars (US) an hour. -- Pakaran 00:13, 13 January 2006 (UTC)
Women make more than men in the pornography trade. Men usually make maybe $100 where as the women can make several times that. Dismas|(talk) 02:27, 13 January 2006 (UTC)
Yeah, but that would be because they can't keep at it 8 hours a day. Well, at least the men (physically speaking, that is). Which is why also prostitutes and taxis are so expensive - they sit around doing nothing most of the time. And sports professionals, in a different way - they're 'used up' after a decade or two. Which makes me think. You could try darts. Maybe you're a natural. Practise for a few months and become a professional. If you can reach the world top there's good money to be made. And you can keep this up longer than most sports. And you can do the practising at home. It's hardly work. Drinking on the job helps. All you need to do is concentrate, for which you need to empty your mind. Sounds like your sort of thing. :) And mine, for that matter, but my mind isn't stable enough for it - I keep on distracting myself (believe me, I've tried and tried). DirkvdM 11:03, 13 January 2006 (UTC)

[edit] iTunes problem

i have a problem with iTunes right now...it won't play my music. the bar doesn't even move when i hit 'play'; it just starts at 0:00 and won't continue. i don't have any sound throughout the rest of my computer either, but my speakers are in. but when i go to the control panel, it says it doesn't detect an audio device. is this why iTunes won't work? —Preceding unsigned comment added by Marak24 (talk • contribs)

Mac or Windows? --Aaron 22:18, 11 January 2006 (UTC)
Probably Windows if they say Control Panel rather than System Preferences. A few more questions: can you get any other sounds out of your computer or is it just iTunes? Apple released a new version of iTunes yesterday, have you or have you not updated? --Canley 01:39, 12 January 2006 (UTC)
nope. still won't work as well as any other sound on the computer. windows media player will play video, but no audio. iTunes is still unresponsive... --Marak24
Have you checked the volume controls screen? See if anything is turned all the way down, or if anything is checked not to play sounds. User:Zoe|(talk) 00:10, 13 January 2006 (UTC)
The volume controls are normal; it doesn't have anything to do with that it think. it's probably by speakers or sound card. Marak24
Mmmm...most interesting. iTunes generally doesn't just not work. If you took music from a friend's computer, stuff that he bought, and try to use it on yours, it won't play at all; I had this problem when I signed up for .mac and had to get two ITMS accounts to work on one computer (a royal pain in the ass, mind you). That's probably why iTunes won't play. As for your "audio device" problem, that could mean a number of things. Your sound card could be shot for whatever reason, and depending on how old your computer is, finding a replacement might be difficult unless you try eBay. Windows might not have any drivers for it, and if that's the case, it's as simple as installing the drivers; of course, you'll have to either find out the manufacturer of your sound card, or find the disks that came with your computer. The best solution, however, is probably to reinstall Windows. (Be careful how you go about that, though; if you do it the wrong way, Windows will be generous enough to format your whole hard drive.) Cernen Xanthine Katrena 08:44, 15 January 2006 (UTC)
thanks, i'll try your advice! Marak24

[edit] Bike Tube

I was switching out the tube to my bike tire and then realized that I have a presta rim and only a shrader tube. I don't really want to bore out the presta to a shrader on the rim, so any suggestions of how I could ghetto rig a patch for my old presta tube with materials found in an ordinary dorm room? It's just a small hole. Thanks!! —Preceding unsigned comment added by 64.107.192.24 (talk • contribs)

Ha ha, good joke. Next question! --Zeizmic 23:33, 11 January 2006 (UTC)
And this question is a joke because? hydnjo talk 23:43, 11 January 2006 (UTC)
Well, answer it then! --Zeizmic 00:13, 12 January 2006 (UTC)
No, I (we) don't understand, so from before, "this is a joke because?"hydnjo talk 02:28, 12 January 2006 (UTC)
I suppose you don't have any old tube lying around, or else you'd probably just use a piece of that, right? If you've got latex gloves (you know, the kind you use for housecleaning), you might try that with some rubber cement. I'm assuming you've patched holes before, but in case you haven't, get a nail file from somewhere and some rubber cement. Find the hole, rough up the surface with the nail file, cut out a small circle of rubber from an old tube, rough that up, apply rubber cement to both surfaces, then press together. This is probably not a long-term fix, but it'll get you to the bike shop. If you have no use for the Schroeder tube, which it sounds like you don't with the rims you've got, just use a piece of that. Mitchell k dwyer 03:05, 12 January 2006 (UTC)
Now that makes sense. I didn't understand the prior frivolous response as it didn't seem to get anything done. Thanks Mitchell k dwyer for your thoughtful reply, I'm sure it will be helpful to 64.107.192.24 (if he checks back). hydnjo talk 05:08, 12 January 2006 (UTC)


[edit] January 12

[edit] What famous people were Scorpios?

—The preceding unsigned header was added by 69.123.160.45 (talk • contribs) .

We're not going to list them here. Just do a Google search for "famous scorpios". --Canley 00:38, 12 January 2006 (UTC)
Wikipedia is incredibly thorough on many things, but listing people by their star signs is not one of them. Sorry! — QuantumEleven | (talk) 13:04, 12 January 2006 (UTC)
Although, come to think of it, such a listing would be of a lot more interest/use than some of the stuff we do have. JackofOz 13:30, 12 January 2006 (UTC)
Many of the articles about Japanese people of note do in fact include their star signs. It seems to be of some importance there. Dismas|(talk) 16:25, 12 January 2006 (UTC)
Actually, we had such listings but they were deleted because they'd be enormous categories and redundant with looking up births by month. Night Gyr 08:50, 14 January 2006 (UTC)
Well, it would be a long list. Around 8-9% of all famous people are scorpios. Notinasnaid 12:34, 13 January 2006 (UTC)

[edit] Sherlock Holmes' Dr. Watson played by Ian Fleming

I have two Sherlock Holmes movies from the 1930's staring Arthur Wontner in the title role where Ian Fleming is credited as playing Dr. Watson. I have found no documentation that the James Bond author did any acting. Is this some other "Ian Fleming"?

Movies: "The Triumph of Sherlock Holmes" (1934) and "Murder at the Baskervilles" (1937)

William Johnston

According to the Internet Movie Database, the Ian Fleming in those movies isn't the same one as the Ian Fleming of Bond fame. Although the latter seems to have had a cameo in "River Rivals" from 1967. (Never heard of it). --BluePlatypus 01:07, 12 January 2006 (UTC)
It is indeed a different Ian Fleming. See the Internet Movie Database - he was an Australian-born British actor. He played Watson in two other Sherlock Holmes films: "The Missing Rembrandt" (1932) and "Silver Blaze" (1937). --Canley 01:09, 12 January 2006 (UTC)
As to "River Rivals", I'd be inclined to suspect an error in the IMDB. Like Wikipedia, they rely largely on user-submitted data and therefore can be unreliable, particularly for less-well-known movies. Perhaps someone just picked the wrong Ian Fleming and the manager in charge of cast lists didn't notice. It seems particularly likely in view of the fact that Fleming the author died in 1964. --Anonymous, 07:10 UTC, January 12.
That's why it must've been an effective cameo! ;) Or it was the Dr Watson-Fleming. Either that or I suppose one must postulate the existance of yet another Ian Fleming. --BluePlatypus 13:45, 12 January 2006 (UTC)

[edit] The Exorcism of Emily Rose

Hello, I had a few questions about The Exorcism of Emily Rose. I was wondering who the demons were that posesed her and how significant they are.Thanks a million!! Zach 01:08, 12 January 2006 (UTC)

According to our article on Anneliese Michel (whose exorcism was the inspiration for the movie), she claimed to have been possessed by Lucifer, Cain, Judas Iscariot, Nero, Legion and Belial. Hitler dropped by too sometimes. David Sneek 08:28, 12 January 2006 (UTC)

Thanks! And what are the words that emily speeks when she says "I am the devil that dewlls within"? --Zach 20:18, 12 January 2006 (UTC)

[edit] song lyrics

Does anyone know a song that kinda has these lyrics?:

"I dont get no sleep, deep down inside. Buddha. That Funky Buddha."

then it goes to repeating the words:

"music music music music music music music music...."

for about 30 seconds.

The song is sung using a computer's voice, kind of like the Microsoft Sam voice. The song is a dance song. thanks--172.128.246.248 02:25, 12 January 2006 (UTC)

A quick search of AllMusic suggests that it could be Funky Buddha by Reel Two Real, available on the 1997 compilation House Mix, Vol. 1 (on Spg Records). --George 02:04, 13 January 2006 (UTC)

[edit] Food service

As a supervisor in a restaurant,why is it important to keep colleagues infromed about your work and other issues that may affact them?

[edit] Buying/downloading episodes of radio show "Loveline"

I very much enjoy this show, but it was taken off the radio station that I used to listen to it on. Where can I check to see if it is available on any radio station in my area? Is there anywhere where I can legally buy or download episodes of it? I know that there are a few episodes available on filesharing programs, but the selection is extremely limited. Flea110 06:52, 12 January 2006 (UTC)

  • You can get some old best-of clips here. It seems you want the current shows, though, so that's not what you want. (But then again, with Adam Carolla gone, the show's no longer worth listening to, so maybe you should stick to the old stuff. :p) At any rate, some radio stations stream their content online, so I'd check the various stations that still do carry Loveline in other cities. Zafiroblue05 08:15, 12 January 2006 (UTC)

[edit] PS2 + Videogme release dates

Is there somewhere that has a list of the PS2, DS, etc games coming out in the next month or less, with their exact dates listed? I know places like IGN have dates, but I just need a list of everything coming out within the next month.

Try asking your local video games store, I'm sure they would be happy to assist. Proto t c 09:30, 12 January 2006 (UTC)
  • Try EBGames.com click on your platform of choice and check under "coming soon". Deathawk 01:52, 14 January 2006 (UTC)

[edit] How did General John Pershing get the name Black Jack?

This is discussed in the article on General John Pershing. David Sneek 10:55, 12 January 2006 (UTC)

[edit] Food service

please help me this question. As a supervisor in a restaurant,why is it important to keep colleagues infromed about my work and other issues that may affact them?

We can give you a common sense answer, but presumably your course materials discuss this question. The examiner almost certainly wants the answer in the textbook. --Robert Merkel 08:51, 12 January 2006 (UTC)
Excellent suggestion. You could also do this: Imagine you are one of your colleagues. Why would you want to know what your supervisor is up to? Why might it be helpful to you as someone following a leader, or just as someone following orders (no pun intended)? Mitchell k dwyer 09:07, 12 January 2006 (UTC)

Please don't double post. DirkvdM 09:57, 12 January 2006 (UTC)

DirkvdM! I believe it is time for another useless Reference Desk template!

Please do not post your questions more than once. We may not know the answer to your question, are still figuring it out, or are refusing to answer for one of the reasons stated at the top of this page. Asking us a second time will not likely get you your answer either, and almost guarantees you we will be ignoring you in the future. Your question may be deleted if you see this notice; you should reformat it to prevent this from happening.

Imagine working at a place where the employees are supposed to know important stuff by telepathy because no one ever tells them though any official channels. Further suppose that none of the employees can actually do telepathy, because the hiring department neglected to test for that skill, because the people who run the hiring department lack the telepathy to know that is a requirement of people being hired there. You'd be surprised how many work places the above is true for. Now imagine what could possibly go wrong as a result of this break down in communications and hiring practices.
  • Customers could get poisoned for example.
  • The store can run out of essential ingredients.
  • There can be mistakes made with the money.
  • Customers do not show up because the signage outside looks like the place is closed.
  • The place is left unlocked overnite, and some miscreant walks off with a lot of stuff they not entitled to.

Can you add to this list? User:AlMac|(talk) 10:49, 12 January 2006 (UTC)

Is this an answer to the question or a reaction to me? I don't see how it applies to either. DirkvdM 07:57, 16 January 2006 (UTC)

[edit] Reporting Fraudulent and Unethical practices from ISP's.

What agency would I use to report an ISP for charging me for services I never agreed to or signed up for. I cancelled my membership in June of 2005 and my bank account is still being drafted around $50.00 per month. I have all the documentation to prove their illegal actions, but I'm not sure which agency is the one that can help me. Any help in this matter would be greatly appreacited. I've tried to get the ISP to stop these charges and refund my money, but every time I contact them it's like talking to a zombie. I know there are lawsuits pending against them and for exactly the same complaints I have. I just need to know who to contact. Thank You, T. L. Smith

It does help if you tell where you are from. If you're from Sweden, try Swedish National Board for Consumer Complaints. TERdON 15:07, 12 January 2006 (UTC)
Well, somewhere with dollars I guess. Have you asked your bank to block the draft? I know in Australia it's recommended that when you have a direct debit/standing order that you cancel it with the provider and your bank as well. Doesn't help with the refund though. If you are in Australia, there is a Telecommunications Industry Ombudsman who probably would deal with this sort of matter. --Canley 22:31, 12 January 2006 (UTC)

[edit] t-shirts

How much money would it cost for 20 million t-shirts?

in those quantities, you're talking case-to-case deals, but it would be no more than the bulk price per t-shirt times 20 million. You'd also have to specify at what stage you're getting the t-shirts (immediately after manufacture or after printing). — Lomn Talk 16:12, 12 January 2006 (UTC)
I would think it would also depend on the quality of the shirt. Are you talking some thin cotton shirt that will last for a couple washings before only being suitable for washing your car or are you thinking of a heavier cotton that will take plenty of abuse and plenty of washings? I don't have an answer for you either way but with the question as stated, the answer could vary wildly. Dismas|(talk) 17:57, 12 January 2006 (UTC)
Also depends strongly on where you buy them. deeptrivia (talk) 20:57, 12 January 2006 (UTC)
Note: it would probably be considerably cheaper to buy a factory capable of producing the shirts, as such an order would amount to the same thing. Bethefawn 02:13, 13 January 2006 (UTC)
The only organizations that I could think of who would order T-shirts in such quantities are retail chains like Wal-Mart. But in any case you could get an upper bound on the cost by having a poke around on this site. It looks like plain T-shirts are available for about 1.45 USD; in the quantities you're talking about I'd reckon you could get them for under a dollar. --Robert Merkel 04:59, 13 January 2006 (UTC)

[edit] Military Shops in foreign countries

What is the shop called where American troops stationed abroad can buy american goods?

the PX is a general-purpose store for military personnel on army bases stateside; I imagine terminology is unchanged elsewhere. — Lomn Talk 16:10, 12 January 2006 (UTC)
PX goes to a disambig page. The letters stand for Post Exchange. Army "bases" are usually called "posts" by Army personnel that's why it's Post Exchange instead of Base Exchange. Dismas|(talk) 18:02, 12 January 2006 (UTC)
Air Force installations are called "bases" and some Air Force people refer to their exchanges as BXes, for "Base Exchange."

[edit] economics

(no question)

What about economics? Dismas|(talk) 18:03, 12 January 2006 (UTC)

[edit] Poem that was turned into a song

(no question)

Could you be more specific? Most songs are generally thought of as a form of poetry set to music. Dismas|(talk) 18:06, 12 January 2006 (UTC)
see also poem and song — Lomn Talk 18:06, 12 January 2006 (UTC)

[edit] snakes

can a snake, specifically a king cobra bite 3 people in a row with enough venom to kill all three? if so, what size would the snake need to be, or does that not really effect anything?

Well King Cobra says that the venom is weaker than other snakes. But it injects a large amount .2 fluid ounces (7 ml) and that can kill 20-30 people. So if you can find a site that indicates how much it carries at any one time then you would know if it could kill 3 people in a row. Also as long as it does not inject more than 2 ml a person then yes it could kill 3 in a row. CambridgeBayWeather (Talk) 22:43, 12 January 2006 (UTC)

[edit] whiptail lizzards

is it true that they reproduce without the need of a partner? I read in www.livescience.com that they basicly clone themselves...I find this really weird, is it true?--Cosmic girl 20:14, 12 January 2006 (UTC)

See Teiidae it would appear they are parthenogenic, external links confirm here and here. CambridgeBayWeather (Talk) 22:05, 12 January 2006 (UTC)

[edit] The Ring Two

I was wondering what happened to the physiatrist that was talking to aiden in the hospital. Did she die? What did she inject in her neck? --Zach 20:22, 12 January 2006 (UTC)

She was supposed to have died from injecting air bubbles into her carotid artery. I was wondering why the pediatrics unit would leave syringes with needles in areas plainly accessible to young children. This is a really blatant safety violation. StuRat 10:49, 13 January 2006 (UTC)

[edit] Russian word

what is a russian word translated into english that begins with yo?

Um. All words which start with yo in English have a Russian translation. Each such translation is therefore a Russian word translated into English that begins with yo. --Ornil 04:08, 13 January 2006 (UTC)
Don't worry, I think I know what you wanted. One example is "yolka", a transliteration of the Russian word for "fir tree". JackofOz 04:24, 13 January 2006 (UTC)
Yo!
Does that mean yodel and yoga are Russian? DirkvdM 11:09, 13 January 2006 (UTC)
They are Russian words translated into English. --Optichan 19:01, 13 January 2006 (UTC)
You forgot the smiley. :) You are joking, aren't you? DirkvdM 08:28, 14 January 2006 (UTC)
Yeah, I'm joking. I'm also assuming Ornil was joking. --Optichan 21:05, 14 January 2006 (UTC)

[edit] appendix

why do humans have appendix

See Vermiform appendix CambridgeBayWeather (Talk) 21:56, 12 January 2006 (UTC)

[edit] Ice block

Hi!
Exploring random article I came across something where this effect:

MG 9944.jpg
MG 9941.jpg

was significant. Unfortunately I forget what it was, but I'm sure that there is a name for what these photos show --Fir0002 23:25, 12 January 2006 (UTC)

Ice spike MeltBanana 01:15, 13 January 2006 (UTC)
Better answer than my idea, which was to ask the person that uploaded the pictures. CambridgeBayWeather (Talk) 16:22, 13 January 2006 (UTC)

[edit] January 13

[edit] $108.28

There are many references in the Federal tax code to incomes of at least $108.28 for members of the clergy. This is a very strange number, and I wonder where it came from. Does anyone know?

--68.239.164.43 00:49, 13 January 2006 (UTC)

Which country, as many have a federal government. CambridgeBayWeather (Talk) 00:57, 13 January 2006 (UTC)
I think I remember seeing it in the context of US taxes. No idea where it came from, though... —Keenan Pepper 02:04, 13 January 2006 (UTC)
That is a seriously weird number. [28] shows its use. --jpgordon∇∆∇∆ 02:06, 13 January 2006 (UTC)
Perhaps it was previously $100 or some other round number, and then was adjusted for inflation. I know there are lots of similarly "weird" numbers in Canadian taxes for that reason. --Anonymous, 06:45 UTC, January 13, 2006
That seems to be the reason. See the Social Security Handbook, 1136.4. Calculating back using the U.S. inflation rates given here, it appears that it's inflation-adjusted from 2003. Lupo 09:03, 13 January 2006 (UTC)
That's boring and anticlimactic. —Keenan Pepper 13:18, 13 January 2006 (UTC)
For a concise definition of "church employee income" (to which this figure applies) see 2005 Instructions for Schedule SE (Form 1040) (2005): it does not apply to clergy in general. Lupo 09:08, 13 January 2006 (UTC)

[edit] U.S. Presidential Line of Succession

Why wasn't the Chief Justice of the Supreme Court Included in the Presidential Line of Succession? —The preceding unsigned comment was added by 68.117.16.64 (talk • contribs) 21:48, January 12, 2006.

It's a Separation of powers issue. The Judicial branch is meant to interpret the law; if the Chief Justice were to be suddenly thrust into the presidency, he'd suddenly be part of making it. There's also the matter of experience; even the lowest-ranking people on the Presidential line of succession list have extensive experience working at the highest levels of the Executive branch; the Chief Justice usually has none at all, and if he does, it tends to have been many years in the past. --Aaron 03:21, 13 January 2006 (UTC)
In fact, there's some degree of concern with having members of the Legislative branch in the line of succession. Suppose that the government is obliterated to the point that the Secretary of the Interior becomes acting President. At that point, Congressional remnants could elect a new Speaker of the House, conceivably of a different party, who would then have precedence and supplant the acting President. — Lomn Talk 05:20, 13 January 2006 (UTC)
No, if the Secretary of the Interior were inaugurated, he or she would remain President even if some of the positions that would have had precedence are later filled. On your reasoning, the new President couldn't appoint a Secretary of State without instantly being ousted from office in favor of that new appointee. JamesMLane 07:31, 17 January 2006 (UTC)
I have perhaps not relayed the scenario exactly, but this problem (among others) is suggested in our article. — Lomn Talk 03:10, 18 January 2006 (UTC)
See, now this is the kind of stuff that belongs at the Reference Desk. Cernen Xanthine Katrena 10:40, 16 January 2006 (UTC)

[edit] cigarette smoking

Does anybody know what those long, wooden, hollow shafts that people would smoke a cigarette with are called. Rose uses one in Titanic when she's having lunch on the first day and her mom scolds her for smoking. It's basically a long, probably wooden, shaft. One puts the cigarette in one end and smokes through the other. They're typically seen with high-class women. Cruella De Ville uses one in the animated version of 101 Dalmations. If anybody knows what these things are called, it would help me a lot!!

They are rather non-imaginitively called cigarette holders. Dismas|(talk) 03:21, 13 January 2006 (UTC)

[edit] Body Movement

Is it possible to dislocate your skull?

  • No, dislocation usually only happens with joints. If you were to dislocate your skull you'd break an important part of your skeleton, probably severing your spinal nerves. - 131.211.210.17 09:19, 13 January 2006 (UTC)
Note that the bones of the skull do have "joints" or articulations, but they're not designed to allow movement at all, so "dislocation" doesn't really apply. —Keenan Pepper 13:17, 13 January 2006 (UTC)
If you count the mandible as part of the skull, it is possible to dislocate it. Mirv 13:55, 13 January 2006 (UTC)

Of course it is possible. Any bone connected to another bone by ligaments or muscles can be "dislocated" in the sense of the spatial relationship between the two bones being shifted to a physical force producing an abnormal configuration with stretching or tearing of the ligaments or muscles. The skull is articulated with the topmost vertebral body (C1). Dislocation of the skull with respect to C1 can occur with hanging or other traumatic injuries. If the spinal cord is injured as the bones shift, death can occur. alteripse 16:48, 13 January 2006 (UTC)

[edit] what happened the day i was born, september 27th 1990?

The Board of Visitors of Old Dominion University met in regular session on Thursday, September 27, 1990, at 1:00 PM at the Virginia Beach Graduate Center. Present were:

George Dragas, Jr., Rector Gene R. Carter, Sr. James K. Hall Gabriel Kavadias Beverley R. Lawler Arnold B. McKinnon Hugo A. Owens Jackson K. Parker J. Michael Pitchford H. B. Price III Sybil M. Walker Robert E. Washington William C. Wiley Brenda T. Williams

If you want a more useful answer, go to your local research library and ask the librarians about how to retrieve the contents of a newspaper from that date. We don't have anything specific listed on 1990, nor September 27. --Robert Merkel 04:49, 13 January 2006 (UTC)
You would do better to ask for newspapers from September 28, 1990, if you want to know what happened on September 27 -- although you might find both dates on the same reel of microfilm anyway. As well as public libraries, there are online resources such as the Toronto Star's Pages of the Past, too, but as far as I know they all cost money.
You might also want to try selecting the same two dates in Google Groups (using the "Return messages posted between" field in their advanced groups search form) to see what people were talking about in different Usenet newsgroups then. However, with many thousands of messages available in different newsgroups, you might have to search a while to find any related to anything of interest to you. Despite the word "newsgroups", most discussion on Usenet is not about current events, and it never has been.
Side comment: as someone old enough to have first encountered Usenet after I was a university graduate, I find it slightly mind-boggling to be suggesting to someone that they search for their own date of birth! In fact the Google Groups archive has postings going back to 1981, long before Google itself existed.
--Anonymous, 07:05 UTC, January 13.
This all comes from the New York Times archive -- 70.27.57.22 23:31, 13 January 2006 (UTC)

[edit] Mobile Ringtones

Where can i get a free normal ringing ringtone? I prefer a traditional normal sounding tone.

There isn't a plain ringtone built into your phone? —Keenan Pepper 05:11, 13 January 2006 (UTC)
There should be an inbuilt one, as Keenan said but if you have accidently deleted this then you can create your own. Your phone's manual should tell you how to go about this.--Ali K 07:06, 13 January 2006 (UTC)
Depends on what (s)he means by traditional. Pre-mobile, perhaps. Maybe one of those really old ones that were so loud it's surprising they didn't fly off the wall. Imagine that going off accidentally in a concert hall. DirkvdM 11:17, 13 January 2006 (UTC)

[edit] Most read articles

Are there any records of the number of hits each of the wikipedia articles gets? deeptrivia (talk) 05:22, 13 January 2006 (UTC)

There's This page, but it's horrendously inaccurate, and out of date to boot. GeeJo (t) (c) • 08:12, 13 January 2006 (UTC)
MediaWiki can provide a hit counter in the footer of each and every page. The feature was long ago turned off on Wikipedia due to server load (as I recall), but you can still see it on other sites using the software. I suppose there are still records, but you'd need access to the server logs to see them. —Charles P. (Mirv) 13:49, 13 January 2006 (UTC)
Anecdotal evidence (source: me) indicates that my user page is wildly popular among the better sort of Wikipedia contributer. This is doubtless because of my invaluable contributinos to the Reference Desk and Wildean wit. --George 18:59, 13 January 2006 (UTC)

[edit] Blank pages at the end of a book

Why do many books have a series of blank pages at the end? --Tothebarricades 09:08, 13 January 2006 (UTC)

See Intentionally blank page for a pretty detailed summary. GeeJo 09:15, 13 January 2006 (UTC)
To add to that: since the blank pages result from printing processes that typically make page counts a multiple of some number like 16, 24 or 32, there would be many more blank pages if it were not for a number of techniques. Techniques for avoiding blank pages at the end include
  • varying the printing process so that a multiple of a different number has less waste
  • cutting out blank pages
  • using layout (e.g. extra publisher's pages at the front, bigger or smaller fonts)
  • adding adverts or other material
  • printing "NOTES" on the top of the pages so it looks like you are being generous
  • above all, ruthless editing: popular fiction especially tends to be produced to fit a particular page count, and editors just cut stuff (or even write padding) until it fits, frequently with no involvement from the author.

Notinasnaid 09:57, 13 January 2006 (UTC)

[edit] Quake 4

The interior of every building is green. What's wrong?

Saint Patrick's Day comes early? GeeJo (t) (c) • 10:37, 13 January 2006 (UTC)

Don't be stupid. I think there is something wrong with the gamma correction.

Being stupid can be fun. StuRat 11:43, 13 January 2006 (UTC)
Though not helpful. I had this problem too: I think it's because of having an older graphics card. The solution for me was to right-click the shortcut, go on Properties, then add +seta r_renderer "ARB" to the Target, so you get C:\Program Files\id Software\Quake 4\Quake4.exe" +seta r_renderer "ARB". --Sum0 23:43, 13 January 2006 (UTC)

[edit] Kong question

In the new movie king kong in the island of kong, all animals are giants, but the dinosaurs are at the normal size. This is wrong or the dinosaurs are very small dinosaurs that are at giants size??

The scientific reference for this is the 1933 movie. I can confirm that Skull Island does indeed have large apes with normal dinosaurs. --Zeizmic 13:11, 13 January 2006 (UTC)
Zeismic is being having a joke with you (sorry to be a spoilsport, Zeismic, but presumably the question was asked seriously). What Zeismic is saying in a roundabout sort of way is that King Kong is a piece of entertainment and is not intended to be scientifically accurate, any more than Godzilla, Star Wars, or Peter Jackson's last project Lord of the Rings. --Robert Merkel 14:06, 13 January 2006 (UTC)
According to Foster's rule on the isolated island both the dinosaurs and the apes should probably have become smaller over evolutionary time. David Sneek 16:24, 13 January 2006 (UTC)
It's possible that Kong wasn't born on Skull Island but came over from some other unknown island, where he's the runt of the bunch. User:Zoe|(talk) 19:57, 13 January 2006 (UTC)

I (the person that made the question) am not questioning if this is scientifically accurate, my question was only that if all animals are at giant size, the dinosaurs need to be at giant size too(so this is a error of the film or the dinosaurs are very small dinosaurs at giant size)??

I don't think it is ever implied anywhere that all of the animals on Skull Island are meant to be at giant size. As far as I know, the dinosaurs are at their correct sizes. --Maxamegalon2000 21:09, 13 January 2006 (UTC)
Our article explains this. See King_Kong_(2005_film)#Bestiary. Night Gyr 08:23, 14 January 2006 (UTC)
Well, dinosaurs are giant size, aren't they? There is a limit to the size of animals. Firstly, there is the problem of supporting ones own weight. Dinosaurs pretty much reached the limit of that, I believe (for land animals, that is). Mammals can also be quite big, and have been in the past, just not as big as King Kong, afaik. There is, however, a problem with the insects at the bottom of the crevice. At least some of them looked like insects, like those weta-like animals (it being a New Zealand film I imagine it was modeled after this insect). Insects use trachea for breathing, and from the article: " Insects do not carry oxygen in their blood, as do vertebrates; this may limit their size." The trachea need air circulation and as insects get bigger, their volume increases with a power 3 where the surface of the trachea increases with a power 2. Flying insects can probably get biggest because of their fast movement and wing flapping, causing more air current, but I'm guessing now. DirkvdM 08:43, 14 January 2006 (UTC)
Maybe the island is an an area where the oxygen is more powerful, and deposits of cavorite mean that larger animals can evolve. Notinasnaid 14:54, 15 January 2006 (UTC)
Which makes me think. Why didn't they bring some kryptonite to take down Kong? Seems a lot easier than chloroform. DirkvdM 08:03, 16 January 2006 (UTC)

[edit] Movie or Radio Quote in "Sorry Louie" by Eazy-E

Hi, this question has been asked before, so sorry for the redundancy, but it wasn't answered, and I've been trawling all over the 'net for the answer. Does anyone know where the introductory quote, "Hi! Claude again! Remember how I told you about my cousin when I was fifteen? Well, the year after that, I killed this kid, Louie. Bashed his head in with my Louisville Slugger! Ha ha ha . . .I got away with it! But, I gotta apologize to Louie . . .I'm sorry, Louie." came from? It's on Eazy-E's Str8 Off Tha Streetz Of Muthaphukkin Compton album.

This is just a guess, since I haven't heard the song, but does it sound like Humphrey Bogart in Casablanca? --Mitchell k dwyer 19:43, 13 January 2006 (UTC)
That's not a line from Casablanca. User:Zoe|(talk) 19:58, 13 January 2006 (UTC)
No, it's definitely not a line from Casablanca, however, it really sounds like an old-ish movie. The guy talking sounds like a psycho white guy. Perhaps a little bit "camp". I really want to find out, so I can watch the movie, OR, if it was a radio story, listen to it.
I'd like to know too! Maikel 23:39, 7 April 2007 (UTC)

[edit] "test-tree"

I found "test-tree", apparently referring to a particular species of tree, in a 1912 translation of Old Irish crand fir[29]. For all I can tell, the literal meaning of crand fir is "true tree", and "test-tree" would seem to be an actual English name. Can anybody tell me what tree is being referred to here? Is the name still in use? dab (ᛏ) 12:52, 13 January 2006 (UTC)

It's probably a local name. The only mention in the OED equates it with the tree of knowledge of good and evil: "1883 G. M. Hopkins Let. 25 Oct. (1956) 323 This was the sin of Adam and Eve, who, both in different ways, eat of the ‘Test-tree’." --Shantavira 14:09, 13 January 2006 (UTC)
It says Aspen in your link AllanHainey 16:25, 13 January 2006 (UTC)

[edit] Gas station storage tanks

I am trying to determine at what time in the 1900's did gas stations, within the United States, begin to bury their storage tanks?--LLaPoint

That's a very interesting question!
If I may hazard a guess, one of the requirements to store fuel underground would have been the supply of mains power, so if the location you're concerned about was remote, in the early 20th century there probably wasn't a suitable power source to pump the tanks.
Aside from my standard response of "go ask at a research library", perhaps the people in the best position to help you might be the oil companies themselves; many of them have direct corporate lineage to Standard Oil and might have internal company documents on the topic. One useful piece of evidence might be pictures of old gas stations. One other source of potentially useful information might be safety standards documents; if you find standards for underground fuel storage tanks, presumably they must have been in use by that date (or soon afterward).
Hopefully somebody can give you a more direct answer. --Robert Merkel 14:02, 13 January 2006 (UTC)
"Mains power" just means electric service. I don't know when but they certainly are a lot of them. From the EPA website: "EPA estimates that over 95 percent of the nation's two million underground storage tanks hold petroleum products. Of all tanks in use, an estimated 80 percent are unprotected bare-steel tanks, which are most likely to corrode and leak;..." Rmhermen 14:24, 13 January 2006 (UTC)

This is a good question. I went into my research mode and looked things up. A great reference is here [30] It seems that above-ground tanks were common until the 60's, but they kept blowing up and killing people. To stop this, they put the tanks underground. A bare steel tank can only last about 20-30 years, so the original tanks are all gone now, with major pollution problems. New underground tanks have onerous conditions, so there may be a swing back to above-ground tanks. --Zeizmic 15:05, 13 January 2006 (UTC)

Your reference seems a bit biased though and I doubt above-ground tanks will return. It's easier to make an underground tank leak-proof than keep an above-ground tank safe from fire and accidents. The main problem in the USA has been lax regulation on the environmental requirements for underground tanks. Europe has had far less problems in this respect. Still, leaks are less of a problem today, since 1) Tanks installed today are either fiberglass-reinforced-plastic or steel with FRP as corrosion protection. 2) Tighter regulations on underground tanks. Today, leaks can be cleaned up more efficiently too (although that's no excuse!), since there are now mobile plants to treat contaminated soil. Groundwater contamination is a major problem in the US due to the sins of the past though, also due to the increased use of the water-soluble gasoline additive MTBE. --BluePlatypus 16:55, 13 January 2006 (UTC)

Yes, that reference was from an above-ground tank maker, but it had the history (which was the question), and it's the only one I found (with history). They are using new above-ground tanks at the cottage marina. It's just a matter of economics, and I think that soon underground tanks will have to be double-walled, with leak detection (ie. very expensive) --Zeizmic 18:01, 13 January 2006 (UTC)

[edit] Crypto machine maker: Ottico Meccanica Italiana

I've been trying to find out more about the Ottico Meccanica Italiana company, which I believe was operating in Rome in the sixties, and produced the OMI cryptograph. I'd like to try and find out more about the machine, and the obvious starting point is to find out more about the company. However, I've Googled on the topic, and there's mostly only Italian-language references to the company (which I don't speak too well). I don't suppose anyone knows anything about this company, specifically, are they still operating? If so, do they have a contact address/email? Thanks for any help! — Matt Crypto 14:37, 13 January 2006 (UTC)

Perhaps if I used the correct spelling it would help! I've corrected "Ottica"->"Ottico". — Matt Crypto 14:43, 13 January 2006 (UTC)
Founded in Rome in 1926 by Umberto Nistri (1895 - 1962) [31], producing photogrammetric instruments. From 1962 on, Raffaele Nistri (1920-1981), son of Umberto, was president of the company. Since the 1980s a part of Agusta [32]. Known for some time as "Agusta OMI". Apparently once also known as OMI-NISTRI in English-speaking countries, but you already knew that, didn't you? The air photography branch split into S.A.R.A. Nistri and Aerofotogrammetrica Nistri (see here for address and phone numbers; no web site found). Don't know when and where and how any of these got involved with cryptography. Lupo 10:27, 18 January 2006 (UTC)

[edit] hospitality industry

'i would like to know any related news/an articles about hospitality industries...'--210.186.246.39 14:43, 13 January 2006 (UTC)

  • Your question is very broad, and it is unlikely that you will get a useful repsonse. I think that you would be better off using the search feature ont he left of your screen to search Wikipedia. You can also try starting at hospitality industry. Ground Zero | t 14:47, 13 January 2006 (UTC)
Maybe it's better posed on Language, but what's the deal with the term "Hospitality Industry" anyway? When did they start calling it that? Makes me associate to a manufacturing plant for guest-greeting robots. --BluePlatypus 16:24, 13 January 2006 (UTC)
Yea, it sounds like prostitution to me. But then, I suppose that all depends on what comes with the room. StuRat 04:07, 14 January 2006 (UTC)

DON'T SHOUT DirkvdM 08:48, 14 January 2006 (UTC)

A good place to start would be the List of lodging types article from thier you can narow your research down to what you want to know about but that should get you started. Deathawk 23:10, 14 January 2006 (UTC)


[edit] where does the name wikipedia come from

It's a Portmanteau of "Wiki" and "encyclopedia". --BluePlatypus 18:28, 13 January 2006 (UTC)
Or you could also read the Wikipedia article. Dismas|(talk) 23:28, 13 January 2006 (UTC)

[edit] Looking for an old game.

I use to play this old game i loved 'Rage of Mages 2: Necromancer' and around 6 months ago i felt like playing it again so i started trying to look for it everywhere (internet/stores) but couldn't it anywhere, does anyone have a clue where i can buy or download it?

You can buy it from a number of stores. Rage of Mages 2 at Froogle.

[edit] german wirehair pointers

(no question posted)

[33] CambridgeBayWeather (Talk) 19:58, 13 January 2006 (UTC)

[edit] Gay CEOs

Are there any openly gay men or women CEOs in the Fortune 500? If so, who?

This site thought (in 1998) not. hydnjo talk 20:10, 13 January 2006 (UTC)
Well, there is that waterpark run by a half dozen gay men...oh wait, that's Six FLAGS, my bad. StuRat 18:34, 17 January 2006 (UTC)

[edit] metal genre

at wikipedia we can find a very large numbers of mental genre and sub-genres, there is some that is metal with rap, metal with hardcore rock... So, my question is exist a genre or sub-genre of metal that is metal with eletronic music??

There are quite a few bands that integrate synthesizers and samplers, the key elements of most electronic music, with metal guitars. Most Industrial Rock or Industrial Metal bands would fall into this area. Night Gyr 07:57, 14 January 2006 (UTC)
A lot of progressive metal and symphonic metal is heavy on keys and synths, but I'm not sure you'd call most of it "electronic" music. --Mitchell k dwyer 08:13, 14 January 2006 (UTC)
There's also electronica that sounds like metal e.g. "La Rock 01", "Newman", and "My Friend Dario" by Vitalic. chocolateboy 12:40, 17 January 2006 (UTC)

[edit] engineering department

Hi!

We are having problem to define the role of a engineering department, in automotive parts manufacturing company.Can you give me any description, definition, or example?

Thanks

How about designing, testing, and setting up manufacturing methods for said parts ? StuRat 07:24, 15 January 2006 (UTC)
Ooh! Ooh! I know! Engineering. Cernen Xanthine Katrena 10:04, 15 January 2006 (UTC)
You might look at the links from Enterprise resource planning and other manufacturing articles. How to manufacture various widgets, chemicals, foods, pharaseuticals, etc. depending on type of industry, this has to be defined to the computer system in a consistent manner, typically using some combination of bill of material or product structure (components] in combination with routings (step by step manufacturing process), with provision for the best places to be inspection points to verify correct manufacturing up to a point, before what got made so far gets covered up by whatever protective covering or packaging. There is also a process of quotes to potential customers, how much it might make to manufacture some new product in what quantities, using access to existing records on similar parts the company already makes, and might also use some engineering drawing software like auto cad, and production of samples to test the quality of the proposed work. User:AlMac|(talk) 09:40, 17 January 2006 (UTC)

[edit] Nick and Lou Saban. Related?

Is Nick Saban, current Miami Dolphins coach, the son of Lou Saban, who coached the Buffalo Bills in the 1960s?

If you go here and scroll down to "Miscellaneous Ramblings" there is some information. The history here says it's his son. CambridgeBayWeather (Talk) 18:57, 14 January 2006 (UTC)

[edit] Prison

Is the a quiz on the internet that determins how long you could be in prison for all the wrong doings you have done? I know there is as people have told me but I don't know the website

Sounds like a good scam. You list your criminal history then they blackmail you. I wish I'd thought of that, LOL. StuRat 04:01, 14 January 2006 (UTC)
  • It would depend a lot on the country you reside in. - 82.172.14.108 13:17, 15 January 2006 (UTC)
    • 'Twould also depend on, depending on what country, what principality, province, state, county, city, urban sprawl, township, fellowship...etc. that you lived in. Everywhere has different definition of crimes (save for things like "murder" and "rape," and even those definitions are adjusted for certain degrees, and tuned and tweaked to fit neat words like manslaughter and sexual assault), so finding out how much jail time you'd do for a bank robbery, rape, and murder would probably differ between Washington and Rhode Island (though in the good ol' Evergreen State they'd prolly give you the needle anyway and settle things right then and there...) Cernen Xanthine Katrena 10:46, 16 January 2006 (UTC)
Are you perhaps thinking of The Privacy Calculator? – b_jonas 23:59, 17 January 2006 (UTC)

[edit] News Articles On People Who Walked Across The USA.

Who was the person who was disabled ( had one artificial leg ) who walked across the US and only ate snickers bars as his food throughout the journey? Where can I get a summary article on his walk or about him? This may have been in the 90s or the 80s !

Thank you!

--68.164.246.151 23:04, 13 January 2006 (UTC)

Do you mean Peter Jenkins or this guy? CambridgeBayWeather (Talk) 01:08, 14 January 2006 (UTC)
Are you thinking of Terry Fox? Hmm, probably not, according to your description. – b_jonas 23:54, 17 January 2006 (UTC)

[edit] Can't get images to load in Firefox!

...as the title says, what gives? The images load fine if I use IE, but nothing shows up with Firefox. If I go to the image description page and then click on the filename, I can view the image, but how do I fix this so that I can view them normally? 71.65.54.92 23:42, 13 January 2006 (UTC)

How about tools\options\web features and then check the load images box. CambridgeBayWeather (Talk) 01:04, 14 January 2006 (UTC)
Many (most) of the complaints along similar lines turn out to be due to overzealous adblocking software. Note that images are served from a different domain than webpages, and that some images reside in directories with "ad" in their name ; both of these are common heuristics used by various adblockers. I suggest turning off all your adblocking firefox extensions and restarting; if that fixes things, you can turn them back on and try to set an option in the relevant one which will exempt wikipedia.org and wikimedia.org. -- Finlay McWalter | Talk 01:12, 14 January 2006 (UTC)
There was a problem yesterday with Wikipedia's image server. Are you still having problems? User:Zoe|(talk) 21:55, 14 January 2006 (UTC)
To expand a bit on Finlay's comment, a very common reason for images not loading in Firefox is that the popular Adblock extension by default blocks any URL with "ad" in it, which also blocks Wikipedia's images since they are retrieved from upload.wikimedia.org. If you have Adblock installed, check for an entry "ad*" at the beginning of its list of blocked sites and change that to "http://ad*" - I had the same problem when I first installed adblock and was quite happy when I found the solution :) -- Ferkelparade π 00:14, 15 January 2006 (UTC)

It worked! All I had to do was "allow" upload.wikimedia.org to load images. Thanks everyone! 71.65.54.92 16:35, 15 January 2006 (UTC)

The best way to fix any mozzila related problem is to get rid of firefex and use internet explorer, which is the best browser.

[edit] January 14

[edit] longest article in wikipedia

What is the longest article in terms of text on Wikipedia?

See Special:Longpages Rmhermen 01:54, 14 January 2006 (UTC)

[edit] Polyoxybenzylmethylenglycolanhydride

I stumbled across this article. Is this the longest one-word article title on Wikipedia? --Nelson Ricardo 03:31, 14 January 2006 (UTC)

My bet is on Pneumonoultramicroscopicsilicovolcanoconiosis, Twoallbeefpattiesspecialsaucelettucecheesepicklesonionsonasesameseedbun, Taumatawhakatangihangakoauauotamateapokaiwhenuakitanatahu, Gorsafawddacha'idraigodanheddogleddollônpenrhynareurdraethceredigion, Chargoggagoggmanchauggagoggchaubunagungamaugg, or Llanfairpwllgwyngyllgogerychwyrndrobwllllantysiliogogogoch. See others at longest word in English. --Quasipalm 03:46, 14 January 2006 (UTC)
Lengths of page titles are limited because of technical reasons. If they had not been, one of the longest titles would probably have been Methionylglutaminyl...serine. There are some more candidates at Longest word in English, but all the longer chemical compounds mentioned have shorter names as well. TERdON
Well, if it wasn't abbreviated to Titin, I think s:Methionylthreonylthreonyl...isoleucine would have a pretty decent go at it, being too long (at 189,819 letters, nearly 100 times as large as Methionylglutaminyl...serine) to even appear in it's own article. GeeJo (t) (c) • 12:42, 14 January 2006 (UTC)

Thanks guys. Some scientists must have waaaaay too much on their hands. --Nelson Ricardo 15:01, 14 January 2006 (UTC)

Don't blame the scientists, they're not just making this up!   freshgavin TALK    06:36, 16 January 2006 (UTC)

[edit] Eye Care

Yes, of course. Very important. Don't do any boxing, for example. And don't do this either: " Newton slid a darning needle around the side of his eye until he could poke at its rear side, dispassionately noting "white, darke & coloured circles" so long as he kept stirring with "ye bodkin." DirkvdM 09:07, 14 January 2006 (UTC)

[edit] Shaving

  1. Shaving lather is used to soften the hairs. Which has to soak for a few minutes. But if you do the same with just water, that works too; I shave after showering and just wetting my face (water only) has the same effect. So what is the use of the lather? And what are those irritating sticky strips on 'modern' razors for? They feel yuck and getting modern razors without them is by now almost impossible.
  2. It is advised to shave with the grain. I, however, find it more effective to go against the grain (still talking about shaving :) ).
  3. What is the use of after shave? The practical use I thought it had (never used the stuff myself) is to close and disinfect any cuts. But to do that with alcohol...? But now read in the shaving article that it doesn't by itself close cuts, so just a piece of toilet paper will do (that's what I use - if ever). My guess is perfume manufacturers realised they didn't sell to half of mankind and then came up with the idea to change the presentation a bit and associate it with something masculine like shaving. And hey presto, their sales doubled. Of course, perfume for men is much older, but that was to do away with the stench. Since 'we westerners' don't 'stink' anymore, what is the point?
  4. And now for the most important one. Why were those 'modern razors' such a success? Half a year ago I was out of blades and decided to try my father's old razor (what are those things called - I mean with a loose blade). The first time I made a bloody mess, but buy the third time I had figured it out; use less presure. Now I always use it because it shaves faster and smoother. Especially when I haven't shaven for a few days. Shaving that with a modern blade (double as it may be) is a lot of work. With an oldfashioned loose-blade razor there is no difference. Even a two week beard comes all off straight away. with the first stroke.
  5. Have electric razors improved in the last decades? I have an old Philips razor from around 1980 and found it wasn't nearly as good as wet shaving (even with a 'modern' razors). Then I heard they had improved and I bought a Braun but found it was no better than my father's old Braun. Then I heard that Philips electric razors are better than Brauns, but I'm not going to put money in something I won't use again. DirkvdM 09:51, 14 January 2006 (UTC)

I think the progression from the straight razor (the big knife) to the safety razor with disposable razor blades to the disposable safety razor to the electric razor is a steady move from more dangerous and more effective razors to safer and less effective razors. While a straight razor (the old fashioned one) can do an excellent job, you could also possibly kill yourself if you don't know what you're doing. A safety razor can't kill you, but you could still manage to cut yourself. With an electric razor, it's almost impossible to cut yourself or to get a smooth shave. Note that travelling with a straight razor may be troublesome, as it could be considered a weapon. Razor blades could also be considered a weapon. Those "lubrication strips" on some disposable safety razors are supposed to soften up the hair. I prefer Bic disposable razors, which don't have those strips.

One recent annoyance is the "more is better" trend in safety razors. Two blades was questionable, as the claim that "the first blade lifts and the second cuts close" seems suspect, but now they are up to four blades, which is absurd. You are just going to get 4 times the cuts and abrasions from 4 blades, not 4 times a closer cut. I wonder if we will be up to 10 blades on a safety razor (that looks more like a cheese grater) in a few generations. LOL. StuRat 10:26, 14 January 2006 (UTC)

Hint. Just let it grow. You get a great beard and don't have to spend any money on razors, lotions, lathers, blood coagulants (styptic pencils), bandages, etc. Plus then people will make all kinds of amusing religious/ethnic assumptions about you. Rmhermen 14:50, 14 January 2006 (UTC)
I second that. As a college student, I can use the money. Plus, going to school in rural Ohio, people think I'm Amish. WAvegetarian (talk) (email) (contribs) 17:33, 14 January 2006 (UTC)
I agree too. Don't shave. It also has the advantage that you don't look so bad if you for some reason don't shave one day. Also, if you want to cut off a two week's beard, try a scissors to cut most of your beard and then any razor should take the rest down very fast. – b_jonas 23:30, 17 January 2006 (UTC)

[edit] arctic foxes

How do zoos keep arctic foxes white the whole year? --KeeganB--

White out. Seriously, I don't think that they do. You can read more about them in our article on Arctic Foxes. -WAvegetarian (talk) (email) (contribs) 17:28, 14 January 2006 (UTC)
I've been thinking about this. You would need to know why arctic foxes and hares change colour in the summer. If they do it due to the days getting longer or due to the snow melting. Either way it's possible that the zoo could provide a fake winter environment that stopped the foxes from changing. CambridgeBayWeather (Talk) 18:47, 14 January 2006 (UTC)
Or just keep 'em near the polar bears; that will scare them white. --jpgordon∇∆∇∆ 23:43, 14 January 2006 (UTC)
Signals for winter and summer, ie. sunlight, (as discussed in chronobiology) must some how affect hormone levels, which then affect pigment production. So I would think (if the zoo wanted to), was to just inject them with hormones. Of course, summer coats may be caused by the presence of a hormone, but I would think there would be a way to neutralise that hormone in itself. Elle vécut heureuse à jamais (Be eudaimonic!) 13:50, 15 January 2006 (UTC)
Wouldn't the environmentalist groups, besides protesting the animals being caged up, protest the use of hormones to change the lifecycle of the animals? I would think it would be a big item for them. Dismas|(talk) 15:24, 15 January 2006 (UTC)
It may not be sunlight that affects them but some other signal. I have a cat which likes to be outdoors when the temperature is warmer than -20C. I assumed that she was basing her outdoor life on the amount of sunlight due to the fact that in the Arctic it's more noticeable than in southern areas. However, a couple of months ago the temperature rose from -30C to -10C and the cat went crazy trying to get out and spent up to 30 minutes outside at a time. So it was, for this one cat, something other than the sunlight that affected her. Thus for foxes and hares it may be the lack of snow cover that causes the change from white to gray/brown. In which case all the zoo would have to do is provide a white background/enclosure for the animals. CambridgeBayWeather (Talk) 15:48, 15 January 2006 (UTC)

Well, I think I'm going to email the Albuquerque zoo and ask them. I saw white arctic foxes there and at the San Diego zoo. KeeganB

Do they really?? They don't do so in zoos over here (other side of the pond), where these foxes have a white fur only in winter. Lupo 12:51, 16 January 2006 (UTC)

[edit] EPDM rubber compatability

Useful for determining which condom to use, I'm sure. Cernen Xanthine Katrena 10:47, 16 January 2006 (UTC)

[edit] Hoover dam

Is Hoover Dam actually located in Las Vegas?

The Hoover Dam article gives its location. It is 48km/30 miles southeast of Las Vegas. - Akamad 13:43, 14 January 2006 (UTC)

[edit] philosopher

hi, is there any place online where I can ask for the advice of an expert in philosophy?--Cosmic girl 15:42, 14 January 2006 (UTC)

I'm sure there are quite a few Wikipedians who are professional philosophers: put "philosopher" in the search box but click on search instead of go, then scroll down to the bottom and check off the User box and uncheck the others, then search again. You could also ask your question at Google Answers, although that costs money. WAvegetarian (talk) (email) (contribs) 15:58, 14 January 2006 (UTC)
Hmm, that Wikipedia search results in a lot of user pages without the word 'philosopher' in them. I wonder why that is, but then what does an amateur philosopher know. Speaking of which, I don't appear in that list because on my page I use the word 'philosophy' (for the study I've done). Alas, using that term doesn't help in finding me either on the first page :( . Luckily, there is not a whole bunch of people who use phrases like "my philosophy is..." in a sense that has nothing to do with philosophy. If you Google that term you're even bothered with loads of companies that think they 'have a philosophy' when they've come up with a marketing scheme.
As for 'expert in philosophy'. That can roughly mean two things; people who have read loads of thick books by long dead people with long beards or people who like to take a step back and think reality over for themselves. The latter are the philosophers themselves. DirkvdM 07:55, 15 January 2006 (UTC)
Not to be a spoilsport, but having read loads of thick books by long dead people means that you don't waste time having brilliant insights that, say, Plato refuted a couple of thousand years ago. There's no point reinventing the philosophical wheel...--Robert Merkel 21:54, 15 January 2006 (UTC)
Philosophy covers anything that isn't already covered by some science. Which is a rather broad area, to put it mildly :) . So when you do philosophy, what are the chances that you come up with a subject that has already been covered by a previous philosopher? So reading those books will have the effect limiting your thoughts to those subjects. This may (and for many people does) go so far that you think that that is all that philosophy is about. I'm certainly not saying that those books are not worth reading. But to understand them you have to be a bit of a philosopher yourself. And for that you must have first freed your mind by taking that step back and doing some original thinking. Ideally, that would be an iterative process, going back and forth between reading and thinking. Too many people, however, are stuck in the reading bit, taking the words of Plato and the like for gospel (who in turn, by the way, mostly just regurgitated what he had heard from Socrates). Oh, and as soon as some idea has been refuted by someone you're in the realm of proofs and certainties and therefore science and not philosophy. Alright, that's a bit strong, but there is an element of truth in it. I mean there are no certainties in philosophy. And. like I said, to understand the books, it helps to have thought about it for yourself (even if your conclusions may be 'wrong' - whatever that is). DirkvdM 08:38, 16 January 2006 (UTC)

[edit] amount of water used in a shower

no question

This depends on how long you spend in the shower and the flow rate of the shower head you are using. Some will use as much as 8 gallons per minute while others use as little as 2.5 gallons per minute. You can read more here. WAvegetarian (talk) (email) (contribs) 17:23, 14 January 2006 (UTC)
As a general rule, a normal shower uses less water than a bath, while a power shower uses more water. smurrayinchester(User), (Talk) 17:29, 14 January 2006 (UTC)

[edit] "Slo-Mo"...

What antidepressant is most often reffered to by snide shrinks as "Slo Mo"? I can't figure it out... I'm not a drug-expert. Thanks in advance.

Did you get 14 Across yet? :) Bethefawn 05:24, 16 January 2006 (UTC)

Your answer could be many things. It could be Valium, a drug used for depression, but also pain killing and other fun things; Lithium carbonate, a drug that takes two weeks to fully establish itself in your system; Wellbutrin XR, an extended-release form of Bupropion...better to ask this question either at the Science desk, or at your locak psychiatry office. Cernen Xanthine Katrena 04:50, 16 January 2006 (UTC)

[edit] The Kate Shelley streamliner between Clinton, IA and Chicago, IL

When was the last run of the Kate Shelley streamliner (train) from Clinton, IA to Chicago? My guess is the late '60s. Thank you to whomever might be able to come up with this useless bit of trivia that will settle a long discussion over last night's dinner. Bill Bangs

Try Chicago and North Western Railway and if not then try here. CambridgeBayWeather (Talk) 18:35, 14 January 2006 (UTC)
Want a picture? The 2 at the bottom left are the train, the bottom right is the Kate Shelly museum and the rest are the Kate Shelly bridge. OK, my question is who is why is there no Kate Shelly article? CambridgeBayWeather (Talk) 18:41, 14 January 2006 (UTC)

[edit] ANOTHER HOLIDAY FOR ANOTHER FAMOUS AMERICAN

do you think there should be another holiday for another famous american if so who in your opinon do you think it should be. just for the record iam not doing my homework.

Bah, be grateful for getting 10 Federal holidays per year (not to mention all the other Holidays of the United States.) Over here in the UK we only get 8. GeeJo (t) (c) • 22:14, 14 January 2006 (UTC)
Yeah, but how much paid vacation time to UK workers get? Germans seem to have it the best, anyway. --jpgordon∇∆∇∆ 23:40, 14 January 2006 (UTC)
Also, only government workers get all of those holidays off. Few others get Columbus Day off, and most people have to work on Martin Luther King Day, Presidents Day and Veterans Day. Many retail stores close only on Christmas and New Year's. -- Mwalcoff 01:20, 15 January 2006 (UTC)

Yeah! The more the merrier! deeptrivia (talk) 05:54, 15 January 2006 (UTC)

How about a holiday to commemorate George W Bush? It would be six weeks long, every year. DJ Clayworth 15:22, 16 January 2006 (UTC)
We never had holidays for sock puppets that I recall... Cernen Xanthine Katrena 08:25, 18 January 2006 (UTC)

[edit] Religion-Friendly ISPs

wasn't there an internet service provider available that was operated by a group of religious leaders, one of which was creflow dollar; with no offensive activity; still exist?

(Question niftily reformatted by the resident refdesk whore Cernen Xanthine Katrena at 11:05, 15 January 2006 (UTC))

[edit] Greek naming conventions

Attempting to settle something amidst a roleplaying group. In modern-day Greece...

Are patronymics used (as in Russian)? Or is it more like Western middle names? --Penta 20:43, 14 January 2006 (UTC)

While I am too lazy to answer your question directly (mostly 'cuz I don't know the answer) I can direct you to Greece, Greek Orthodoxy, Patronymics. Cernen Xanthine Katrena 10:59, 15 January 2006 (UTC)

Yes, Greeks used to use patronymics. For instance: "Stephanopoulos", "Constantinopoulos" = Son of Stephen, Constantine. --BluePlatypus 11:19, 15 January 2006 (UTC)
Thanks, but the question wasn't "did they previously?", it was "do they now?" --Penta 14:37, 15 January 2006 (UTC)
Ok, well that wasn't clear (Russian doesn't use them nowadays). Anyway: No, I don't think think the Greeks use them now (which is why I wrote 'used to'). The only culture I know of which still uses patronymics as the norm is Iceland. The rest of Scandinavia (which probably had the most widespread use) having dropped them in the mid-19th century. (and are thus the latest to have dropped them, AFAIK) --BluePlatypus 17:19, 15 January 2006 (UTC)
Just to clarify: By "use" them I of course mean that they don't form new patronymic names. People are of course still using the old ones that they've inherited. --BluePlatypus 17:24, 15 January 2006 (UTC)

[edit] Simpsons Botanical Joke

One episode of the Simpons (Moe Baby Blues) features a botantical garden with the slogan "Our Stamens are a Pistil. I know what a stamen and a pistil is, but I don't get the joke (which Lisa does). I know having a joke explained is meant to stop it being funny, but it's really bugging me... smurrayinchester(User), (Talk) 21:03, 14 January 2006 (UTC)

It's a pun on the word pistol, used metaphorically to mean someone who "goes off" easily, I think... —Keenan Pepper 23:35, 14 January 2006 (UTC)
I believe "he's a pistol" is an old expression for a funny person, something like "he's a riot". StuRat 02:30, 15 January 2006 (UTC)
According to my step-father it might be based on a quote from some movie. --Optichan 15:43, 17 January 2006 (UTC)

[edit] James Bond

After "Casino Royale", will there be a "James Bond 22" and what would be the appropriate title be for the 22nd adventure of James Bond?

As long as they continue to make money there is no reason for them to stop making films. As to the title, well some of the films made are not from any of the original books and were turned into books after the movie. So the title could be really anything. See James Bond. CambridgeBayWeather (Talk) 00:19, 15 January 2006 (UTC)
Considering they just went through considerable trouble finding the next James Bond and gave him a three film contract, I would almost guarantee there being a JB 22. Dismas|(talk) 15:19, 15 January 2006 (UTC)

[edit] January 15

[edit] Private Investigator

How may I contact a Private Investigator the province/state of Karbardino - Balkariya in Southern Russia ? signed --4.232.63.37 02:39, 15 January 2006 (UTC).

Aren't they listed in the local phone book ? StuRat 02:48, 15 January 2006 (UTC)
Seriously, assuming you don't speak Russian you will almost certainly need to find somebody who does just to arrange to hire one. That said, the backblocks of Russia are (by all reports) the kind of place where a foriegner looking for trouble hard enough could certainly find it. Make sure you know what you're getting into. --Robert Merkel 06:30, 15 January 2006 (UTC)

[edit] Geneaology Abbv.

Does GES when used in the context of a birth date mean anything in a geneaological sense? DuctapeDaredevil 03:17, 15 January 2006 (UTC)

Where did you see it? The only thing I could find was some sort of degree awarded to (I think) German botanists. As a guess I came up with "Graveyard EStimate" or "GuESs". In other words, a gravestone says "Died Month, Day, Year, Aged XX" and the birthday is worked out from that. If you could provide a bit more context, such as country, etc, it might help. CambridgeBayWeather (Talk) 13:23, 15 January 2006 (UTC)
Sorry. It's US, I think. A baby who died in the hospital, presumably the same day it was born. DuctapeDaredevil 19:44, 17 January 2006 (UTC)
I'm going to venture a guess and say "gestational," or perhaps "died during GEStation," something like that. Cernen Xanthine Katrena 08:19, 18 January 2006 (UTC)

[edit] Births

--Flashy tag removed by resident refdesk whore, Cernen Xanthine Katrena, at 10:50, 16 January 2006 (UTC).--

Y'know, that's a really good question. I was born once. Cernen Xanthine Katrena 10:16, 15 January 2006 (UTC)

That tag is kinda flashy, kinda brought my attention to this worthless non-question. Kinda wish it wasn't there so I could ignore it. I agree with the sentiment though. Bethefawn 05:29, 16 January 2006 (UTC)
Yeah, these templates are way too conspicuous. Can't a version with just plain text and no colour be made? Or box, for that matter.
Also, this happens quite often - no question, just a header. Is there some common reason for people to do this? DirkvdM 08:44, 16 January 2006 (UTC)
The way these questionless headers are typed in, I'm guessing that people think the question window is a search engine. --Mitchell k dwyer 19:15, 16 January 2006 (UTC)
Of COURSE I can cut new versions of those templates and will be more than happy to do so. That's a good point there, Bethefawn. And, DirkvdM, idiocy seems to be the common cause.

[edit] Oil Prices

How much effect will the Emir of Kuwait's death have on Oil prices?

Short answer - who knows, and if you could predict it accurately you could make a pile of money for yourself. Slightly longer answer - according to this BBC report the country has effectively been run by the Crown Prince and the Prime Minister, who is the brother of the Crown Prince, for a while now. If you need more accurate advice than that, consult a professional. --Robert Merkel 06:36, 15 January 2006 (UTC)

--template removed by CXK; I was being a dick and just realized it--

Excuse me, but this is no homework question, I am not even in school. I am a concerned American, and just remember when the Crown Prince of Saudi Arabia died and the Oil Prices went up.

When was this? The only rises in oil prices I've seen were the recent ones of note. --removed homework template; apologizes profusely-- Cernen Xanthine Katrena 04:33, 16 January 2006 (UTC)

Forgive me, I said Crowned Prince. King Fahd bin Abdul Aziz al-Saud of Saudi Arabia Died August 1, 2005. Oil Prices shot up shortly after he died.

[edit] animated series identification

Okay, I've already done some research on my own and I've gotten nowhere. When I was young I used to rent videos from the kids section. When I was 5 or 6 I rented a video that had a few episodes of some 70's series. It was about a middle-aged man with an overactive imagination. He also had a talking dog as a friend. In one of the episodes he imagines himself as a London detective on the trail of an evil milkman. He is too late to stop the milkman from giving a family poisoned milk that makes their ears grow to a large size. The family likes their new ears. It had a theme song that went "sunflower, sunflower, sunflower" in one part. Does anybody know the name of this series? --KeeganB--

Please list the location and nail down the time frame tighter than the 1970's. StuRat 07:27, 15 January 2006 (UTC)

Aw shit, it's a lost cause. KeeganB 1:34 AM sunday morning

I daresay this sounds a lot like Wallace and Gromit mixed with LSD. Cernen Xanthine Katrena 10:08, 15 January 2006 (UTC)

I was thinking the exact same thing. WereRabbit meets Wrong Trousers meets acid trip. WAvegetarian (talk) (email) (contribs) 10:25, 15 January 2006 (UTC)
This is bizarre, and intriguing, especially the theme tune. Was it a UK or US series? Was it animated or live action? Could you have dreamed it? Have you looked through the list at at Children's television series? --Shantavira 10:25, 15 January 2006 (UTC)
  • I guess it's a UK series. Why else would he imagine being a london detective? - 82.172.14.108 13:26, 15 January 2006 (UTC)


Could it have been Mr Benn? He was a guy in a bowler hat that used to go to a costume shop and have bizarre adventures. Jon 14:50, 17 January 2006 (UTC)

Wow, this is tugging at something waaaaay back in the darkest depths of my memory, but could it have been Mr Rossi? The dog, themesong, and style of adventures in particular sound about right. There doesn't seem to be an article on the series yet, in fact, I can't even find any particularly good websites, but there's a picture and very brief description here and the theme song lyrics here. Also, it seems the series was Italian, and originally called Signor Rossi, but shown in the UK as Mr Rossi. Noodhoog 14:39, 22 January 2006 (UTC)

[edit] How can i...

I was banned from a posting forum,is there any way to trick it into comimg back,since it recognize my IP and wont let me even re-register....I downloaded some kind of "ip hider",but it only changes my "proxt"(whatever that is),but it aint changin my IP hider... Can you please help me... Thank you...

Read the article proxy.

While I'm not generally one to aid in the perpetration of such acts...you could always post from a different computer. Cernen Xanthine Katrena 10:10, 15 January 2006 (UTC)

  • Try apologizing to whoever runs it and to not do whatever got you banned in the first place. - 82.172.14.108 13:27, 15 January 2006 (UTC)
It wasn't on Wikipedia, was it? :) DirkvdM 08:46, 16 January 2006 (UTC)


No,it wasnt on Wikipedia,why the hell would I been banned from Wikipedia?

Not signing your posts might be one reason. :-) DJ Clayworth 15:19, 16 January 2006 (UTC)

You can move your household to a different building, which will mean you have a different IP address. The move will probably only cost you a few thousand dollars, if you in USA. While doing this, think long and hard why you want to be in that forum, and what it was you were doing that got you banned, and if you want to go through this time and expense of moving again. User:AlMac|(talk) 09:48, 17 January 2006 (UTC)

Yes! There are! Use any of these ip-hiding websites: www.sneak2.com www.userbeam.de www.stupidcensorship.com or www.misterprivacy.com <<<note; people might have already tryed using these website, and got their ip's banned

[edit] Animated TV series

(I'm not the same poster as the fellow above, but his post reminded me to make this one.) In the early to mid 90s, I rented a series of videotapes for my daughter that I'd like to find the name of. They were animated kid's shows, featuring a girl with animals (not real ones, maybe magic kinds) in her hair. I can't remember much else...

What kind of animals? And do you remeber anything else about the videos, like a song or perhaps a few lines? TomStar81 06:46, 16 January 2006 (UTC)
I think her hair was rainbow, and there might have been castles involved.

[edit] What is the most-visited website?

I'd think either Wikipedia, Google or IMDb. What are the few most visited sites?

Check out the alexa rankings. WAvegetarian (talk) (email) (contribs) 10:21, 15 January 2006 (UTC)
My connection fails whenever I try to load that page, or even alexa.com.
1. Yahoo!
www.yahoo.com
2. Microsoft Network (MSN)
www.msn.com
3. Google
www.google.com
4. EBay
www.ebay.com
5. Passport.net
www.passport.net
6. Amazon.com
www.amazon.com
7. Myspace
www.myspace.com
8. Microsoft Corporation
www.microsoft.com
9. Google UK
www.google.co.uk
10. AOL
www.aol.com
Grumpy Troll (talk) 10:43, 15 January 2006 (UTC).
That list only English language websites, though. The global top 10 contains 5 non-English sites. Fredrik Johansson - talk - contribs 10:50, 15 January 2006 (UTC)
I suppose Google isn't at the top of the list because there are several Googles, dus to the way it is split up (eg google. com and google.co.uk), whereas the Wikipedias are all under the same sitename (the distinction between the languages comes before wikipedia. org). Wikipedia is, however, still strongly on the rise), whereas google isn't, nor are ebay, amazon and msn. Oddly, they've all got a dip in mid 2004, except Wikipedia. Anyone know what that is? DirkvdM 09:03, 16 January 2006 (UTC)
  • It should also be noted that Alexa Internet rankings have some systemic biases -- they only record the viewing habits of people using Internet Explorer on a Microsoft Windows PC who happen to be running the Alexa toolbar software. What this means in general is that you are missing a rather large segment of computer savvy people, though I don't know how many people that includes on the whole. --Fastfission 21:47, 16 January 2006 (UTC)
    • Internet Explorer on a Windows PC. That would probably explain the popularity of MSN. People can't be bothered to change their home page. :) --Optichan 15:57, 17 January 2006 (UTC)

[edit] Island in San Francisco

What is the island in San Francisco?

Thanking you,

Grumpy Troll (talk) 11:01, 15 January 2006 (UTC).

Treasure Island, California -- Finlay McWalter | Talk 11:10, 15 January 2006 (UTC)
Angel Island. Alcatraz. Although none of them is in San Francisco. User:Zoe|(talk) 00:18, 16 January 2006 (UTC)
The photo GrumpyTroll linked certainly shows Treasure Island. In the legal sense of "in" it, and indeed Alcatraz and Yerba Buena, are inside SF. Angel isn't (it's in Marin). The only (non trivial) island I can find that's in the real people sense of "in" is Strawberry Hill in Stow Lake in Golden Gate Park. Google. -- Finlay McWalter | Talk 00:49, 16 January 2006 (UTC)

[edit] Chicago Bears Gayle Sayers

no question

Chicago Bears • Gayle Sayers. That help? GeeJo (t) (c) • 14:53, 15 January 2006 (UTC)

[edit] Towns Name

Who is the town of Garrett named after?

What country is it in? CambridgeBayWeather (Talk) 14:38, 15 January 2006 (UTC)
Probably, my most educated useless guess: some guy named Garret who did something useful. Kind of like how the town of Roy, WA was named after a guy named Roy, Seattle was named after Chief Seattle... Cernen Xanthine Katrena 20:43, 15 January 2006 (UTC)
Maybe the questioner means Garrett, Indiana? Rmhermen 20:48, 15 January 2006 (UTC)
Garrett, Illinois, Garrett, Pennsylvania, Garrett, Texas, Garrett, Washington... Grutness...wha? 04:51, 21 January 2006 (UTC)

[edit] i want names of Defence Minister

Hello to everybody of wikipedia, and i really appreciate of the work of the wikipedia.com supporters, i have problem , hope tht u will solve it, the problem is that i had a interview some days before sorry to say this i was failed to pass that interview, coz they asked from me abt the defence ministers of different countries, that's why i wanna ur site to give me the names of defence ministers of Whole world, whole countries, plzzzzzzzzzzzzzzz

I m in great trouble, try to give me names of defence minister as soon as possible...


Sam

See Defence minister for a start. Dismas|(talk) 15:41, 15 January 2006 (UTC)
Sam, for major countries, each country article is likely to have links to a list of cabinet members for that country. With a little a bit of effort, you will be able to find this information for yourself. Ground Zero | t 15:44, 15 January 2006 (UTC)
I know it isn't like me to disparage other people's questions ( -insert someone rolling their eyes here- ) but does this not sound suspicious to anyone? Who asks that sort of question in a job interview? Cernen Xanthine Katrena 04:42, 16 January 2006 (UTC)
A similar question was asked of George W. Bush by a journalist when he was running for President; the purpose of the question was as a litmus test of rudimentary foriegn policy expertise. It would be a perfectly reasonable question to ask of somebody who is applying for a job in defence-related foriegn affairs; for instance, somebody who wanted to work in sales for an arms manufacturer. The morality of such a profession is something you might quibble with, but it's perfectly legal in most Western countries and a growing number of other ones with indigenous arms industries; India's, for instance. --Robert Merkel 09:41, 16 January 2006 (UTC)
It would also be a reasonable question to ask an aspiring political journalist, or a recruit to the diplomatic or intelligence services. DJ Clayworth 15:17, 16 January 2006 (UTC)
Indeed. I would hope, however, that someone applying for one of the jobs people have suggested would have better grammar and spelling than "coz they asked from me abt the defence ministers of different countries, that's why i wanna ur site to give me the names of defence ministers of Whole world, whole countries, plzzzzzzzzzzzzzzz." Sigh... Zafiroblue05 04:56, 17 January 2006 (UTC)
Zafiroblue, it would appear that the reference desk is almost a...shall we say...textbook demonstration of the ignore all rules guideline. Especially the ones listed at WP:MOS. (Of course, it's also the hangout for all the disgruntled reference desk employees, and we have been known to either egg on the poor fools or condemn them to hell ^_^). Cernen Xanthine Katrena 07:08, 18 January 2006 (UTC)

[edit] What is the first analog video gaming input device?

N64 controller? or the atari 5200 controller? I read the entry "analog joystick" but i think back in the atrai 5200 time, analog is useless?(I think the 5200's controller was not analog, all it did have was the "stick")

203.186.238.160 18:05, 15 January 2006 (UTC)

I wonder, was the Spacewar! joystick analog or digital? I'd guess digital. --jpgordon∇∆∇∆ 18:32, 15 January 2006 (UTC)
Spacewar! did not use a joystick. Originally it used the front panel switches of PDP-1. Then a pair of controllers were built using toggle switches. -- RTC 05:52, 18 December 2006 (UTC)
Thank you for the term "toggle switch". Not sure if this helps but HTML comments in this section note Kotok's view that NASA had similar control boxes by the time he and Saunders built some for Spacewar!. In the PDP-1 restoration celebration video, Samson said the Spacewar! controllers did double duty in the PDP-1 drafting program T-Square (a program that may or may not have some relation in common with Sketchpad). I don't know for what purpose NASA had them. Susanlesch 06:45, 18 December 2006 (UTC)
Higinbotham's tennis probably used a simple rotary potentiometer. Later games, such as Pong, also used rotary pots. -- Finlay McWalter | Talk 18:40, 15 January 2006 (UTC)
Incidentally the 2600 had a digital joystick (which you used for most things) and an optional analog rotary pot (which you used for tennis type games). There's nothing terribly hard or novel about an analog controller - all it is is one or more potentiometers linked to analog-to-digital converter circuits. -- Finlay McWalter | Talk 18:47, 15 January 2006 (UTC)

[edit] Rules to last pocket eight ball

Can you clarify your question? Here are rules for 8 ball: [34][35]. If "last pocket 8 ball" is a specific variation, I could not find it online nor in the print edition of the official rules for pocket billiards from the BCA. alteripse 18:47, 15 January 2006 (UTC)

[edit] Rules to last pocket eight ball

If you call a side shot but the eight ball is in the corner that you can not get out. DO you spot it? Signed LLH

I am sorry, I have access to standard 8 ball rules and will try to help, but I do not understand your question at all. Could you please specify whether you are referring to standard 8 ball or a variant game, and rephrase your question? alteripse 20:35, 15 January 2006 (UTC)

Mm. I believe he's referring to just straight 8. In which case, no. You can't spot the eight ball in eight ball. That's a mortal sin. There are only two times you can win in eight-ball if you sink it: one is on the break (an automatic win), and the other is when you call the shot ("eight ball, side pocket") and all your balls (stripes/solids) are off the table. If you pocket the eight-ball at any other time, it's an automatic loss. At least, that's how I was taught to play. Cernen Xanthine Katrena 04:39, 16 January 2006 (UTC)

[edit] CHINESE NEW YEAR

What animal is represented in the Chinese New year 1956??

NHF

Chinese astrology#Table of the Lunar Calendar and Zodiac says "goat". -- Finlay McWalter | Talk 19:09, 15 January 2006 (UTC)
From Jan 24 1955 to Feb 11 1956 was the year of the Goat, and from Feb 12 1956 to Jan 30 1957 was the year of the monkey. See Chinese astrology. СПУТНИКССС Р 19:14, 15 January 2006 (UTC)

[edit] Recipe Fat and Calorie Content

Where can i find out how much fat and Calories are in This recipe on this website: http://homecooking.about.com/library/archive/blpasta50.htm?terms=italian+marinara+recipe+sauce

If you google fat content you will find a lot of sites with fat and calorie charts and tables. CambridgeBayWeather (Talk) 20:30, 15 January 2006 (UTC)

I want to know how much is in this particular recipe.

For us to give you an answer we would have to know how much fat there is in the cheeses you are using. This varies widely depending on where and when it was produced. Without that information, there is no way we could answer correctly. You can look up the nutrition data of individual ingredients at http://www.nutritiondata.com/. Just add to get the total for the recipe. --WAvegetarian (talk) (email) (contribs) 22:06, 15 January 2006 (UTC)

[edit] Audible Silence

At Stanford University (and probably elsewhere), there are fire alarm panels in some of the buildings which have some interesting things on them. One is the mode for the alarm. An operator can set it to either "alarm" or "audible silence." What is audible silence and does it really work as an alarm? (Yes, I was inspired by the earlier question about silence on this page.) --N Shar 21:41, 15 January 2006 (UTC)

Read our Fire alarm control panel article. WAvegetarian (talk) (email) (contribs) 21:56, 15 January 2006 (UTC)
Thanks :) I searched but didn't find this article for some reason. --N Shar 22:18, 15 January 2006 (UTC)
SILENT ALARM ACTIVATED!!! --Optichan 15:14, 18 January 2006 (UTC)

[edit] snake and songs

Do Snakes get attracted by song or whisteling sound? in certain parts of India, it is been told not to whistle in the night, is that because it attracts sanke or other dangerous creatures?

I had heard that snakes were totally deaf. It turns out they can hear, just not very well. They are most sensitive to frequencies around 200-300 hertz, and whistling is a few octaves higher than that, so they may not be able to hear it at all. —Keenan Pepper 23:55, 15 January 2006 (UTC)
Approaching animals make the ground shake at low frequencies, which the snakes pick up. Snakes literally have their ear to the ground :) . DirkvdM 09:09, 16 January 2006 (UTC)
  • Any truth to the claim they can feel/see the motion of the flute of a snake charmer? - Mgm|(talk)
Of course they can see the motion of the flute. They aren't blind. StuRat 10:08, 16 January 2006 (UTC)

As I understand it, cobras will be "at ease" if you are far away and will strike at the nearest moving object if you are close enough. However, there is a range between these two distances where they rise and prepare to strike the nearest moving object, but wait for it to move into range. By keeping in this distance range you can keep them in their raised stance for quite a while. For safety, it makes sense to have an inanimate object closest to the snake, so it will strike that, instead of you, if you get too close. Using a flute as the object gives the fun illusion that the cobra is being "charmed by the music", especially when they "dance" to the flute as they turn to face the moving flute to improve their striking ability. StuRat 10:06, 16 January 2006 (UTC)

Conversely I saw a documentary where the snake charmers had ripped out the fangs of the cobras, rendering their bite nearly harmless.--Commander Keane 10:33, 16 January 2006 (UTC)
Hmm, maybe we should rip some part off of politicians bodies to make them harmless ? StuRat 15:07, 16 January 2006 (UTC)
Their brains? If we can locate them, that is... DirkvdM 08:06, 17 January 2006 (UTC)
There's something glaringly wrong with your answer: politicians have no brains. Cernen Xanthine Katrena 12:05, 17 January 2006 (UTC)

[edit] January 16

[edit] Commercial Music

Does anyone know what the song is from the new 24 commercial on Fox?-Ridge Racer 01:30, 16 January 2006 (UTC)

"Club Foot" by Kasabian. Here's the link to that song on iTunes so you can double-check. (You may want to search on "Kasabian" in iTunes as well, because there are at least two other mixes of that song available.) --Aaron 19:31, 16 January 2006 (UTC)

Thanks a bunch!--Ridge Racer 01:19, 17 January 2006 (UTC)

[edit] Foreign Direct Investment Inward/Outward Stock

In the United Nations Conference on Trade and Development's World Investment Report, they refer to Foreign Direct Investment(FDI)inward/outward stock. Are these actual stock investments in private companies? --mb

[edit] What is a pilot's loss of licence cover

Your question is at the very least confusing... Do you mean to ask about what happens if a pilot loses their license to fly? This would vary wildly depending on what they did in order to warrant it being taken away. The very least that it means is that they are not legally allowed to fly an aircraft. Dismas|(talk) 14:16, 16 January 2006 (UTC)
Are you referring to insurance that a professional pilot might take out against their losing their license for some reason? I've never encountered it, but I would imagine it exists, if only to cover unexpected medical problems. DJ Clayworth 15:12, 16 January 2006 (UTC)

[edit] Maori tribal symbol or band.. for a tattoo.

My husband is wanting a Native People Maori (People of New Zeland)symbol or band. He is wanting it for a tattoo. He has some ties through the military in New Zeland and was wanting the tattoo to go on his back across his shoulders? Can anyone help me with this design??? Thank you! Needing help... Michelle

You might want to read this. The symbolism of the tattoos is sacred. I would suggest doing a google image search if you want to find a pattern, but know that he could piss off some Maori. WAvegetarian (talk) (email) (contribs) 06:11, 16 January 2006 (UTC)
A Maori-style tattoo should be okay though - the meanings are in the designs themselves, so a non-Maori can't draw an original piece with cultural significance. Google 'Maori tattoo designs', take a look at what other people have drawn, see what your husband likes and then discuss it with the tattoo artist - she's probably done hundreds and has some designs. Natgoo 19:56, 16 January 2006 (UTC)
That's social role valorisation : a tattoo artist is a she-one. --DLL 23:56, 18 January 2006 (UTC)

[edit] Professional Management

what is professional Management?

Management that gets paid.--Ridge Racer 01:21, 17 January 2006 (UTC)
An oxymoron. Cernen Xanthine Katrena 08:12, 18 January 2006 (UTC)

[edit] I'm so not cool

In the world of mountain biker's they have a term called "pro ho" What does it mean?

  • Essentially a groupie [36] - the term refers to women hanging around pro athletes. Natgoo 09:43, 16 January 2006 (UTC)
    • Or maybe, a ho for the pros.

[edit] carrots and onions

Many Mexican brands of canned Jalapeños and Serrano chiles include a few onions and carrot slices along with the chiles. Does anybody know the reason? KeeganB

No particular functional reason. It just gives you spicy onions and carrots, which is tasty. --BluePlatypus 18:02, 16 January 2006 (UTC)
Indeed. And the carrots are brilliant! -- Rune Welsh | ταλκ 21:39, 23 January 2006 (UTC)

[edit] Loan Facilities for UG students of Victoria University Wellington

  • Try reading the instructions at the top of the page. They're there for a reason. - Mgm|(talk) 09:53, 16 January 2006 (UTC)

There's something glaringly wrong with your question: You didn't even ask a question in the first place. You should check the list of things to do before you post at the very top of this page before posting a question. Your question may be deleted if you see this notice; you should reformat it to prevent this from happening. If you want the answer to this supposed question, I suggest you ask your Financial Aid office. Cernen Xanthine Katrena 12:02, 17 January 2006 (UTC)

[edit] what are "hits" on the web?

The total number of times a given web page is displayed on any computer anywhere. StuRat 12:17, 16 January 2006 (UTC)
That is broadly the meaning, but the actual technical meaning is very much more complicated, because of the way the web works. For instance, suppose you look at a web page with two frames, a style sheet and three pictures. The first time you visit that page there will be 8 separate connections to the web site (for the page, the two frames, the style sheet, and the three pictures). So the count of connections versus pages is important: some people will inflate their hit count by counting connections. But what happens next time? Well, if you look at the same page in an hour's time there will probably be no connections. Next day, maybe your computer will check to see if the page or other files have changed, maybe not. So displaying the page again might or might not count as a hit. Some software tries to account for these multiple requests for the same page from the same computer, to count "real" different viewers (people). But all they have is the IP address, and that might be used by more than one person. In the case of someone like AOL who uses proxy servers, there may be thousands of people seeing a page but only one request. Bottom line: hit counts are interesting, and are an indication of how popular a page is. But they are not an exact measure. Notinasnaid 12:57, 16 January 2006 (UTC)
Actually, they're more of an indication of how popular the pages that link to them are, at least in as far as it concerns people who follow such a link. Once there, they may decide it's not what they wanted (of course, this depends on how you define 'popularity'). Popularity of the page itself would be indicated by returning visitors - ie the 'multiple requests' you're talking about. DirkvdM 08:14, 17 January 2006 (UTC)

[edit] Squash and... squash

I can't find any information about the "Sweet Mama" squash, also known as "Sugar Loaf". (Produce code 4779 if anyone keeps up with that sort of thing.) Does anyone here know their squash? --Syndrome 14:16, 16 January 2006 (UTC)

  • What sort of information are you seeking? Google provides a lot of hits. --jpgordon∇∆∇∆ 16:14, 16 January 2006 (UTC)

[edit] types of selection and retcruitment?

types of selection and retcruitment of people in an organisation it may be a service sector, manufacturing industry or any and what are the merits and demerits present in selection and retcruitment.and what are the steps followed by them

Please read the instructions at the top of this page concerning asking homework questions. Dismas|(talk) 15:33, 16 January 2006 (UTC)
I second that! And I never did see the short-lived template that heaps scorn and abuse on homework-seekers. Not that I would ever do that.... --Zeizmic 16:18, 16 January 2006 (UTC)
Oh, you mean this one? It used to look like a cleanup box, but someone thought it was much too fangly and I thought it did too, now that he/she/it mentioned it. Please do your own homework. We are not going to help you cheat. We do or have already done our homework; it's your turn to do yours. Your question may be deleted if you see this notice; you should reformat it to prevent this from happening.

[edit] How much of a drug constitutes "personal use"?

How much marijuana or cocaine can you have in Australia and still have it count as personal use? (and this isn't anything shady, I'm writing a short story).

In Canada, it's as much as you can fit in a standard 16' canoe. --Zeizmic 16:20, 16 January 2006 (UTC)
In which state have you set your story? Criminal law is decided by the states and territories, and what you ask is different in each - unless your character is importing the drugs into the country (which is covered by Federal statute). This page might be a good place to start looking for general information, otherwise searching google.com.au for 'NSW drug laws' or 'Queensland drug laws' or whatever is probably your best option. Natgoo 19:00, 16 January 2006 (UTC)
  • In the USA, I recently saw a case where $180 worth of marijuana was considered to be in the gray area between criminal possession (what casual smokers and addicts get charged with) and criminal possession with intent to distribute (what small-time dealers get charged with). --Mareino 19:10, 17 January 2006 (UTC)

[edit] Availability of TV Pilots

Is there any way I could see television pilot episodes that never generated a series? What is the copyright status of the recordings, and who could I obtain them from? Would a network destroy the episodes, keep them on casette/film/etc, or give them back to the director? 202.7.176.133 16:40, 16 January 2006 (UTC)

The same copyright status applies to those as would to shows that were picked up. The networks would certainly keep the pilots and that's probably the best place to go. - Akamad 19:32, 16 January 2006 (UTC)
I would think the production company that created the pilot (and there are, I imagine, hundreds of pilots every year) would keep the rejected ones. --jpgordon∇∆∇∆ 20:23, 16 January 2006 (UTC)
Seconding jpgordon. The network would most likely just refer you to the production company anyway, so you might as well eliminate the middleman. By the way, some pilots end up floating around the net because various collectors may have an interest in the producer, one of the actors involved, etc. If you provide a name I could do a quick dig around for you. --Aaron 23:05, 16 January 2006 (UTC)
  • The Museum of TV and Radio might be willing to help you, if you can give them a legitimate reason for your interest. From what I recall, they only have the pilots of very successful shows in their own collection, but they have very good contacts with just about every company in showbiz.--Mareino 19:07, 17 January 2006 (UTC)

[edit] Windows registry help!

Is there a way to replace or edit the Windows XP registry file with another file if you hook up the disc with Windows XP on it to another computer. This would be because Windows XP will not start up on that machine with that disc in there, so I hooked it up to another machine running windows in the hope that it I could copy over a good backed up registry file. Is this possible? If so how do you do it and what file do you replace?

Advising someone to fiddle with the windows' registry is equivalent to telling them how to diffuse a bomb (cut the red wire!). --Zeizmic 18:37, 16 January 2006 (UTC)
I'm not sure I understand your question. Are you asking "Is there way to replace a copy of the Windows XP registry with a backup copy on disk?"? If so, I believe the answer is "yes" but I don't remember how to do it exactly. I recommend taking a look at what Microsoft has to say on restoring the registry as it might be helpful. --Fastfission 21:40, 16 January 2006 (UTC)
As with all my advice on Windows Registry modifications: If you have to ask, reinstall Windows. If you have to ask twice, buy a Mac. And if you have to ask a third time, why didn't you listen to me when I told you to buy a Mac? Cernen Xanthine Katrena 11:52, 17 January 2006 (UTC)
See, now I feel guilty for having killed this topic, so I'm going to give you an honest answer now. In Windows of old, there were two "real" files for the registry: "User.dat/da0" and "System.dat/da0." Now, there are five. Two of them are "SAM" and "HIVE" but I can't recall the other three. Like I suggested before, reinstalling windows is your 100% best bet, as editing the registry can at the worst tank any chance of you ever getting Windows to reinstall. And of course, my original suggestion still stands: buy a Mac. They don't have a tendency to murder themselves. Cernen Xanthine Katrena 08:08, 18 January 2006 (UTC)
  • Your not really supposed to do that. KILO-LIMA 19:11, 23 January 2006 (UTC)

[edit] The Quizzes

Whats the best program to do quizzes in? How exactly do you make them? Can you point me out to a tutorial? Thanks --Young XenoNeon (converse) 17:50, 16 January 2006 (UTC)

There are lots of different kinds of quizzes. For instance, there are quizzes that a person prints out, writes on, and sends back to you. Or there are quizzes that go on a web server, so you do it all on the web. And many other. Perhaps you could tell us what sort of quizzes you've seen, or you like, or you want to create. Notinasnaid 18:47, 16 January 2006 (UTC)

I would wish to create quizzes similar to the Funtrivia format - you do the quiz and you press a button and it assesses if your answers are correct.--Young XenoNeon (converse) 19:28, 16 January 2006 (UTC)


That go on a web server and automatically perform such operations--Young XenoNeon (converse) 19:30, 16 January 2006 (UTC)

Please answer this question. I want to know--Young XenoNeon (converse) 19:14, 18 January 2006 (UTC)
Please keep in mind, Xeno, that if we can't answer a question, we won't, or give you a fair shot at a decent answer that'll get you where you need to go. Patience is a virtue... Cernen Xanthine Katrena 21:18, 19 January 2006 (UTC)
Waiting Patiently... *years later Xenos questions have not been answered--Young XenoNeon (converse) 11:26, 21 January 2006 (UTC)

[edit] Snes games

does anynone know ALL snes game that you are able to play with mouse, play with the scope, and play with more than 2 players??

Just visited an article similar to the one you seem to be seeking, good fellow: List of SNES games. While I don't know ALL of them, I do know that Caesar's Palace and Mario Paint can both be played with the mouse; Yoshi's Safari can be played with the Scope, and most of the Bomberman games utilized the Multi-Tap (as it was Hudson that created it...) Cernen Xanthine Katrena 11:45, 17 January 2006 (UTC)

[edit] console sounds band

there is a band called Machinae Supremacy that uses sounds of commodore 64, there is a band that use sounds of sega master system or snes??

I'm not sure what you mean by "sounds". There are plenty of cover bands out there, though, that play video game music on their own way (usually crappy rock\metal). For SNES I guess you could start at Minibosses. Not particularly aware of any cover band for SMS, but there's Mega Driver for the Sega Mega Drive / Genesis. ☢ Ҡieff⌇↯ 20:05, 16 January 2006 (UTC)
Try Estradasphere, and perhaps the The One-Up Mushrooms (I am rather surprised nobody has written an article about they who hath done a medley of Super Mario World themes for a christmas song...I shall have to start one, I suppose). Cernen Xanthine Katrena 11:49, 17 January 2006 (UTC)
There's a whole genre of music produced with obsolete computer/console sound chips. See Chip music. [37] [38] chocolateboy 13:12, 17 January 2006 (UTC)

[edit] Supply Chain: Use of ICTs

Explain ways that using ICTs within a supply chain can make a difference to an organisation

Do your own homework. Well, think about it, if I wanted to write a report if I was a school teacher, if I had knowledge of ICT it would help, wouldn't it?--Young XenoNeon (converse) 19:40, 16 January 2006 (UTC)

Y'know, Xeno, it'd be really sad if he was the school teacher. Cernen Xanthine Katrena 08:03, 18 January 2006 (UTC)

[edit] Trying to Find the type of Cat my mother has

Hello Wikipedia Reference Staff:

My mother was recently given a kitten. This kitten is long-haired, grey and white (patchy) with a long bushy tail and it has big blue eyes. It has a very odd doubt tuft of hair growing out of each of it's ears and a friend told my mother that this cat is a very rare breed. The cat was purchased at the local Humane Society and we cannot find out if it really is "a type". All I know is that my mother loves "Baby" and Baby is a very sweet cat. Is there anything in what I've given you that could help you figure out if it does come from a particular breed?

Many thanks. Catherine Stuart Email: cstuart at hydro dot mb dot ca

Do you have a picture of the cat you could link to, just to help reduce the possibilities? GeeJo (t) (c) • 20:19, 16 January 2006 (UTC)
You might have a look at our List of cat breeds to see if anything matches. Note that even if your cat resembles, and seems to have parentage from a specific breed, without a written pedigree recording its ancestry back several generations it's not going to be valuable for commercial breeding, but that in no way affects Baby's ability to be a loving pet! By the way, feral cats are a major environmental and animal welfare problem in many places; you should strongly consider getting your mother's cat desexed. --Robert Merkel 04:25, 17 January 2006 (UTC)
  • "grey and white with big blue eyes" sounds a lot like the new Blue Peter kitten Socks who's a ragdoll (long hair and bright blue eyes are their trademark). Without a photograph I can't be sure about that, though. Maybe your local vet can tell you what breed it is. - Mgm|(talk) 08:55, 17 January 2006 (UTC)
I'm thinking Norwegian Forest Cat. (grey and white ones do have blue eyes sometimes). --BluePlatypus 16:30, 17 January 2006 (UTC)

[edit] Article Creation

I very well understand from the website how to write an article and edit it. Problem is, I still don't understand how to set a new category to put it in, or how to make a new page that I could paste it into. How?

Please read the directions above and ask this question at the WP:Help desk, which is full of people eager to help you with question about how to do things here and how wikipedia works. alteripse 22:37, 16 January 2006 (UTC)

To avoid having to repaste the question, you need to add [[Category:Foo]] to an article to put it into a category, and by convention it's typically put at the end of the text. To find the most appropriate/specific category to add it to, have a look around related categories and see where they branch out, or see what categories that related articles have been put into (avoid creating new, overly-specific categories if you can help it.) As to creating a new page, just search for a topic by entering it into the search bar. If we don't have an article on it, you'll get a prompt asking if you want to create one. Hope that helps! GeeJo (t) (c) • 23:40, 16 January 2006 (UTC)
Also, it's not required that every article be categorized. You could create the article without a category. You or someone else might later find or create an appropriate category for it. If not, you've still helped to improve the encyclopedia, assuming the new article is a legitimate one. JamesMLane 10:20, 17 January 2006 (UTC)
And don't worry; we won't think it's vandalism, because if you actually put [[Category:Foo]] in a new article, we're gonna know it's you and attack you with welcome templates and wikithankses and barnstars oh my! Cernen Xanthine Katrena 11:39, 17 January 2006 (UTC)
A couple of other points - even a very general category is better than none, and if you can't even think of a general category, you can always add {{catneeded}}, which will alert other editors to the fact that it's an article without a category. Grutness...wha? 05:03, 21 January 2006 (UTC)

[edit] A movie title

I can't remember the name of a movie from about 1985-1995 which was about a man who dressed and lived as a woman (transvestite?)and his true gender wasn't revealed until the end of the movie. It was a very powerful movie and I think it was nominated for an Academy Award in some category. Please help me find the title! Thanks... Karen

I'm quite sure I know the movie you're talking about, but don't want to put a spoiler on this page. If you'd like to email me, I'll be happy to get back to you: mitchell (at) mitchellkdwyer (dot) net. --Mitchell k dwyer 22:54, 16 January 2006 (UTC)
Very noble of you, but seriously, does anyone who cares not know that spoiler? Anyway, if you want to know what it is, click on this IMDB link. --Canley 00:01, 17 January 2006 (UTC)
Seriously, of course there are people who don't know. Remember, new people are coming along all the time, and they'll appreciate you doing it that way. --Anon 08:49 UTC.

Template:Spoiler-blank

To Wong Foo, Thanks For Everything, Julie Newmar. Yeah, that's a spoiler, but that's why we have Cernen Xanthine Katrena 11:21, 17 January 2006 (UTC)

Template:Endspoiler

Be warned, folks.. it's a big spoiler. Right up there with the truth about the mother of the guy who ran that motel, if you know what I mean. --BluePlatypus 16:27, 17 January 2006 (UTC)
If you're worried, you could put the spoiler on your talk page and link it from here. – b_jonas 23:06, 17 January 2006 (UTC)

[edit] So you do what they told you

A while back I heard a song on the radio with the lyric "So you do what they told you". I thought of it recently, but I can't remember what it was, can anyone tell me what the song is called and the band/artist? I think it was on a station that plays alternative rock, if that helps. Thanks in advance, Yeltensic42.618 don't panic 23:35, 16 January 2006 (UTC)

Could it be "Killing in the Name" by Rage Against the Machine? -- Mitchell k dwyer 23:47, 16 January 2006 (UTC)
I'd say given the station, it could also be Arctic Monkeys' Riot Van, though I did think of RATM GeeJo (t) (c) • 23:50, 16 January 2006 (UTC)
I'm not sure if either of those are it, but thank you. Yeltensic42.618 don't panic 02:17, 17 January 2006 (UTC)
After consulting an offline "witness", I think it's more likely that it was RATM. Thanks again for your help. Yeltensic42.618 don't panic 19:28, 17 January 2006 (UTC)

[edit] January 17

[edit] Great White Shark

I looked through your GW shark page but couldn't find that answer to "What is the average size of the Great White Shark jaw?" I don't want the record size, just average for an adult. Thanks! :)

This site sells replicas with the following description and price(!):
Size: 36"W, 30"H, 21" jaw opening
Origin: Oceanic Islands, Atlantic Ocean, Pacific Ocean, Indian Ocean.
Our Price:$ 3,195.00 --hydnjo talk 01:27, 17 January 2006 (UTC)

[edit] do you accept new links

Hi,

I'm writing to you today because I recently browsed your website at: http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Main_Page

I was wondering if your web site accepts new links.

I am looking for websites like yours to trade reciprocal links with. I think the topic of our site is compatible with the content of your site. It would be beneficial for both of us to trade links. Our website, http:// www dot kofutu dot com promotes Kofutu Spiritual Healing courses, Personal Development, Meditation classes, Lists Healers, Instructors, and Links.

If you do accept new links please post this link and email me at lonnkofutu at yahoo dot com With the NAME: URL: and DESCRIPTION: of the link you would like posted to the Kofutu Links Page at: http:// www dot kofutu dot com/links dot htm

Regards, Lonn Lilledahl Links Administrator lonnl at kofutu dot com http:// www dot kofutu dot com

K space Rice space Publishing P.O. space Box space 1744 space Minnetonka, space MN space 55345-0744

Sorry, but we do not accept commercial links. Thanks for the offer anyway. alteripse 02:07, 17 January 2006 (UTC)

[edit] where to hit a billiard ball

—The preceding unsigned header was added by AnneatAdminqld (talk • contribs) . Please see Billiards#Shooting techniques/mechanics. The answer depends on what you're trying to do. -- Rick Block (talk) 05:02, 17 January 2006 (UTC)

[edit] woman flatulence

do woman have flatulence at times?

Yes. —Keenan Pepper 03:49, 17 January 2006 (UTC)
Robert Mitchum's successful proposal to his future wife, stick with me and you'll be farting through silk. hydnjo talk 03:55, 17 January 2006 (UTC)
Ooo can I add that to the article? Do you have a source? —Keenan Pepper 04:52, 17 January 2006 (UTC)
Take your pick hydnjo talk 16:44, 17 January 2006 (UTC)
[39] Look down the page for a reviewer named Jason Parkes. If he is to be believed--and what would be the point of his lying?-- it's in the book Robert Mitchum: "Baby, I Don't Care by Lee Server. I haven't read it myself so I can't say for certain.--◀Pucktalk▶ 14:52, 17 January 2006 (UTC)


At times? I recently heard how often your average person farts in one day. I can't remember exactly what it was, but it was well over ten times. And I don't see how female digestion would be so different that they'd fart more or less than men. DirkvdM 08:28, 17 January 2006 (UTC)
Yes, but on average in many societies (a) women are more polite than men and (b) flatulence, especially if audible, is considered impolite. Therefore on average more women will work to hold it in. Notinasnaid 09:16, 17 January 2006 (UTC)
Of course, they all say their farts smell like rose petals, or potpurri or some other fragrant thing that doesn't smell like...well...farts. Is this because of that whole "more polite than men" bit or egocentricity or what? I don't understand that part. (I didn't ask this question, I swear.) Cernen Xanthine Katrena 11:15, 17 January 2006 (UTC)

"Have you passed gas yet?" is one of the first questions surgeons on morning rounds ask their patients recovering from abdominal surgery. That and the presence of bowel sounds (by listening to the abdomen with a stethoscope) are prime indicators that the bowels are working and eating can be resumed. alteripse 13:49, 17 January 2006 (UTC)

  • Whoopi Goldberg is eloquent on her different kind of farts in the book 'Whoopi Goldberg Book'.

[edit] burnout

I'm looking for the correct way to cause a 'burnout' in my car. you know, spinning tires, lots of noise, rubber on the road. i'm driving a manual transmission mazda rx-8, rear wheel drive, if that makes any difference.

this guy suggests some techniques; basically it's got to do with holding the brakes on lightly and standing on the throttle. Please note Wikipedia:Risk disclaimer and don't try it on public roads, where there's anybody close by, or you'll put yourself in danger if you stuff it up (for instance, you suddenly gain traction and start accelerating towards the scenery at an alarming rate). Note also that burnouts are also a good way to destroy tyres and shorten the life of other driveline components. But it's your money and your life...--Robert Merkel 04:17, 17 January 2006 (UTC)

[edit] person on pitbull's shirt

OK in pitbull's music video "dammit man" and at the end, the camera pointed at pitbull's shirt which looked like some religious leader or something that has something to do with cuba. who is that? P.S. sorry, can't supply a pic for ya, you are on your own.

I haven't seen the video, but it's probably Che Guevera (sp?).
Does it look like this? If so, it's Che Guevara.

[edit] not sure

In a computer class do not understand converting words to bytes or how many bytes are contained in a word. For instance how many bytes in the words Genaral Ledger? Is each letter a bit I know it takes 8 bits to make a byte so since there are 13 letters would this be 1 byte?

One bit is only enough information to distinguish between two possibilities. There are more than two letters, so each letter must be more than a bit. ASCII and many other character encodings use one byte per letter, but not always. —Keenan Pepper 04:49, 17 January 2006 (UTC)
If "Genaral Ledger" were a C-style string it would contain the characters 'G', 'e', 'n', 'a', 'r', 'a', 'l', ' ', 'L', 'e', 'd', 'g', 'e', 'r', and the terminating '\0', so it would be 15 bytes long. —Keenan Pepper 04:55, 17 January 2006 (UTC)
For further information, see bit, byte, word (computer science), and character encoding. --Robert Merkel 05:06, 17 January 2006 (UTC)
EBCDIC, which is an alternative to ASCII, has 16 bits in a byte. Then there are 64 bit systems. That space between General and Ledger is also a byte in most every system I know. Now General Ledger is the name of a type of accounting application which can contain millions of bytes. User:AlMac|(talk) 09:57, 17 January 2006 (UTC)
This is kind of getting off track, but the EBCDIC I learned was a character code with no more than 256 positions, and was normally stored in 8-bit bytes. Variations for character code length include UCS-2 (a kind of Unicode) with 16 bytes, CDC display code with 6 bytes, and UTF-8, with a variable number of bytes between 1 and 6. But this doesn't really help to explain the original question. Let's try this...
Characters are really numbers. There are different lists of numbers used, but for instance, number 32 is a space in many lists, and 65 is a letter "A". When you put these numbers in a computer, they need a certain amount of space. The most common systems used in English-speaking countries have 256 characters in all, numbered from 0 to 255. Numbers from 0 to 255 can be all stored in 8 bits. On most modern computers, 8 bits is a byte. Except for the idea that characters are really numbers, any of these things are just examples, and may be different. Why? Well, think about the Japanese, who have tens of thousands of characters: they will need a different system. That's probably enough for now. There's a lot more to be said: I have an 1100 page book on the subject in front of me, and that only covers Chinese, Japanese, Korean and Vietnamese. Notinasnaid 10:17, 17 January 2006 (UTC)
Oops, I still didn't answer the question about words. Well, words are usually made up of bytes. I have used computers with 2, 4, 8 or 10 bytes per word. So to find out how many words a string uses you must (1) find out how many bytes for that string (2) find out how many bytes in a word (3) divide one by the other, rounding the result up. Notinasnaid 10:19, 17 January 2006 (UTC)
Then there is also Huffman coding, which uses different numbers of bits for different letters. Common letters use fewer bits, so an average text will get shorter than if coded with ASCII. 217.208.26.177 22:02, 21 January 2006 (UTC)

[edit] Why is it called an iPod?

(no question other than the header)

Personally I think it's to do with the rest of Apple's products - nearly all of them have a vowel in the start of their names. User:bd

  • iDon't know, and iDon't care; it's one of the best MP3 players I've ever owned. Cernen Xanthine Katrena 11:11, 17 January 2006 (UTC)

[edit] Fable: Lost Chapters

How do I get out the sword stuck in the stone near the Temple of Avo?

Beef up your strength, you'll need the top level of it to pull it out. GeeJo (t) (c) • 19:19, 17 January 2006 (UTC)

Name a few good places to get experience.

try looking through Category:Red-light districts.

[edit] lp cleaning

I've been cleaning lp's with a disco-antistat cleaning kit, but using a mix of demineralised water and washing up liquid (Dubro). I've cleaned about 60 lp's in three batches, with overall good results. But one lp still had that easily recognisable crackling noise that dust gives. So I played it wet and it sounded just fine. So I gave it another bath, this time with just demineralised water. That seemed to improve things a bit, but the result was nowhere near as good as playing wet (which gave hardly any noise). So I tried two more baths, each time with more washing up liquid, because without that, the water sticks to the lp, not dripping off well enough (it needs to drip because else it will evaporate and leave the dust on the lp). With no improvement. This is driving me nuts. How can all other lp's be just fine and this one not? And how can there still be dust (or what else could it be?) on the lp after four baths? Bathing should have the same effect as playing wet, right? The album is 'No heavy petting' by UFO (1976), Chrysalis records, printed in Germany (Phonogram). I see nothing else on the lp to distinguish it from others. DirkvdM 10:58, 17 January 2006 (UTC)

  • In the world of IT, rubbing alcohol seems to do the trick on just about anything. WD-40 is also a possibility, but I've never cleaned LP records before. (Though it may make sense to try WD-40; while it is a lubricant, it might make the LP stay "wet" in a sense... Cernen Xanthine Katrena 11:07, 17 January 2006 (UTC)
    • WD-40 makes a bad lubricant. I know, tons of people use it as one but there are better lubricants. And the WD stands for "water displacement" so it would keep water off the records and still keep that "wet" feeling. Although it will trap dust and dirt. That's one of the major drawbacks of using it as a lubricant. Dismas|(talk) 11:55, 17 January 2006 (UTC)
I'd say any lubricant is bad because the needle has to be in as direct a contact with the groove as possible. And it's an oil, meaning dust would stick to the record, which is baaaad (the article even states that it collects dust). The idea is to remove everything from the surface. To clarify; after bathing I hang up the record on a steel bar (through the hole) to let it drip dry (not evaporate, because that would leave a residue). But the point is that the washing up liquid bath works fine for all records except this one. And the treatment should work as well as playing wet, shouldn't it? DirkvdM 12:37, 17 January 2006 (UTC)
For old, out of print recordings, I recommend not living in the US, and using a gnutella variant on the Internet. Most likely some audio hobbyist has made a clean recording off the vinyl. If you are a fanatic, you might have to look for the 24 bit stuff. --Zeizmic 14:07, 17 January 2006 (UTC)

Thanks for all the tips, but the question was meant more theoretical, or how should I put that. Let me rephrase it. If I've thoroughly cleaned the lp, then what on Earth can cause the crackling? I bought the lp 2nd hand, so might it be that the previous owner somehow caused loads of tiny scratches (which I can't see, by the way), and, if so, how does playing the lp wet stop them from crackling? DirkvdM 15:51, 17 January 2006 (UTC)

Presumably through the water filling out the cracks. Which means that it's also filling out the grooves which are intended to be there, and you'll have a loss of fidelity. Basically the same effect as a low-pass filter. --BluePlatypus 16:23, 17 January 2006 (UTC)
I thought about that too, but the low-pass filter effect would indeed follow from it, and that makes it rather unlikely because some audio freaks play all their records wet. Could be snobism, but then the real experts would point that out and I've done a fair bit of reading on the subject a few years ago and I would surely have come across any comments on that. Which I haven't. DirkvdM 19:42, 17 January 2006 (UTC)
Maybe the water prevents the needle from jumping around due to surface tension. --Uthbrian (talk) 23:17, 22 January 2006 (UTC)

[edit] Time measurement

Could someone please tell me Who invented the measurement of time. EG: Division of days into hours etc. Division of years into months etc.

All are lost in mists of prehistory. There is much evidence that both Sumerians and Egyptians had elaborate time systems (calendars, etc), but we do not know for certain that they were the first. Some have argued that various stone age relics such as bone carving show time records such as day tallies. It seems likely that some sort of time marking occurred at very early stages of human society all over the world. alteripse 12:32, 17 January 2006 (UTC)

Wow, I was surprised that you just didn't tell them to to type 'time' into THE BOX, until I read it. Those dang Philosophers have gone to town again, and done something that competes with Scientific method, as 'most obscure'. --Zeizmic 13:06, 17 January 2006 (UTC)
The Romans named some months, such as after an emperor (July for Julius and August for, ehm, August) or a God (March for Mars and June for Juno). And they added a ninth month (november, after 'novem' for 'nine') and a tenth month (december, from deca). Somehow these came to be our 11th and 12th month. DirkvdM 13:40, 17 January 2006 (UTC)
And we've got 365 days in a year because of the Egyptians - that was the average time between the risings of this one star, and the one star rose every time the Nile was about to flood. The Romans came up with a twelve hour day, but I think the Egyptians might have had a 24 hour day.

[edit] Pornography

What are the genres of pornography

See List of pornographic sub-genres. Dismas|(talk) 13:56, 17 January 2006 (UTC)
Ohmigod, they actually have genres of pornography? They barely have PLOTS. Cernen Xanthine Katrena 07:56, 18 January 2006 (UTC)
I think by 'genres', they mean 'positions'.--Fangz 04:02, 19 January 2006 (UTC)
Heh-heh! KILO-LIMA 19:09, 23 January 2006 (UTC)

[edit] Things on the cereal box

Near the product name on a cereal box there is a small "K" what does the K mean?

Could it be a hechsher? —Keenan Pepper 14:31, 17 January 2006 (UTC)

Perhaps Kellogs? KILO-LIMA 19:08, 23 January 2006 (UTC)

[edit] Jimmy Timmy Power Hour 2 on YTV?

I have watched Jimmy Timmy Power Hour, a crossover between Jimmy Neutron Boy Genius (television series) and Fairly-Odd Parents (another TV series) on YTV. The first one... but the second one has still not aired. And I read that it will be aired on the 16th, but on Nickledeon. So can you please tell me when Jimmy Timmy Power Hour 2 will air on YTV. And League of Villians (Jimmy Neutron special) as well.

Thank you very much.

I await for your answer.

Please tell us what country and city you're from - there are far too many television stations in the world to be able to provide and answer with what you've provided us. Plus, this kind of information is much more likely to be found on YTV's website, or the website of your local YTV affiliate. — QuantumEleven | (talk) 14:24, 18 January 2006 (UTC)

Okay I'm from Winnipeg, Manitoba. And I checked the YTV website, they have nothing on Jimmy Timmy Power Hour, or the second one for that matter.

[edit] Dr Me

I'm in the UK, and would like to be a Dr of something. I don't want to take the cheaters route of changing my name, I want to be a genuine Dr. I have heard the Doctor of Education is the simplest doctorate to do (no offence to those who have one), any better ideas? Bear in mind I am very, very lazy. Cheers guys. Jon 14:41, 17 January 2006 (UTC)

Easy if you have the cash. See diploma mill or google diploma mill and you will get lots of hits. For specific ads, look in the classified ad pages of magazines whose reading audience is generally non-collegiate (like Soldier of Fortune). Good luck, future doctor! alteripse 14:45, 17 January 2006 (UTC)

  • Easy is rather subjective. That works in your favor. Is there something that you like to read about, study, or pontificate about? It can be silly, like "how to brew beer so that it has more bubbles" or "the ancient history of toilets." As long as it's something where you would actually enjoy the long hours of figuring out what has been undocumented by scholars and then documenting it, then you can get a doctorate in it. --Mareino 19:03, 17 January 2006 (UTC)
You can't just 'do a doctorate', you need an undergraduate degree first. And it'll usually need to be in that field to qualify you for postgraduate studies. Spending years studying something just because you want nothing but a title is silly. (And unheard of. None of the PhDs I know even use their title outside of academic contexts.) Titles have no value in themselves. --BluePlatypus 19:34, 17 January 2006 (UTC)
Would it have to be a British degree? Maybe in some countries you can more easily get one. Don't know where, just an idea. DirkvdM 20:37, 17 January 2006 (UTC)
Speaking as somebody who has a PhD: Go join a band instead. It's easier, and it'll probably impress more people, particularly young members of the appropriate gender ;) --02:53, 18 January 2006 (UTC)

[edit] A series engine modifications

I would like to find out more information about the MAE engine and its development and variants could somebody steer me please. Many thanks JW

[edit] Tracking

Is it possible to track an persons address from his IP Address? or how closely is it possible(country,county,city?). unsigned question by User:Jonoleth

IP addresses are all registered to a particular organisation, and the registration information is often public. A lot depends on the organisation. For example, if the IP address belonged to a company with offices in only one place, and with people working there using the internet, this will tell you where they work. The company itself might or might not be able to identify an individual. By contrast, if the address is shown as belonging to AOL, this may tell you nothing except that the person is an AOL subscriber (probably in a specific country); AOL may have detailed logs identifying the person who was using a particular IP address at a given time. Notinasnaid 18:09, 17 January 2006 (UTC)
In the middle of those two extremes are companies like Verizon which have regional NOCs. For instance, my IPs always trace to Reston, VA. It's close, but in my case you'd never know I actually live in a different state.--◀Pucktalk▶ 19:46, 17 January 2006 (UTC)
http://www.dnsstuff.com/ might help. Haven't used it myself much yet, so I don't know how reliable it is, but the place to enter the IP address is under WHOIS lookup (third down on the left). DirkvdM 20:50, 17 January 2006 (UTC)

[edit] Gun barrel bore.

Why is 9mm such a popular bore size for hand guns. Why not 10mm or 8mm? wsc


  • It's a common bullet design that's achieved popularity, and since it works well, we keep using it. There are larger bullets out there, but they have correspondingly greater recoil; a .45 or 10mm kicks much more than a 9mm. A .40 S&W is basically a reduced power 10mm, for lower recoil and reduced stress on the gun. A smaller bullet like an 8mm would probably carry much less power, especially at the (relatively) low velocities that a handgun produces. .32 ACP is one 8mm pistol cartridge out there.
There's an enormous logistical inertia connected to any cartridge in military service. 9mm is the NATO standard and not likely to go away soon. .30-06 stuck around for almost 50 years. It's the economics of volume. The common nature of the bullets makes them cheap to buy and popular to use, and their popularity in guns leads to greater volumes of manufacture and lower cost. Night Gyr 17:39, 17 January 2006 (UTC)

[edit] planting avocado seeds

What is the correct way to plant an avocado seed so it grows into a plant, up or down?

Seeds are gravitropic, they'll germinate towards the surface no matter which way up they are GeeJo (t) (c) •19:14, 17 January 2006 (UTC)
See this article for some growing tips. hydnjo talk 19:58, 17 January 2006 (UTC)

I have a similar question. I am able to get avocado pits to grow, but at some point they seem to die off. I call this "puberty", as it happens when they are about a meter high and start to produce what looks like wood in the formerly green stalk. The leaves shrivel and drop off from the bottom up. During this time new leaves are growing at the top, but at a slower rate than the old leaves at the bottom are dropping off. Eventually the final leaves at the top die. Do they need something different when this occurs ? StuRat

Are the roots in good condition ? Also, cropping plants might make them stronger ? --DLL 22:32, 18 January 2006 (UTC)

[edit] Worldwide List of Military Academies

Does anyone know how the list of "Government-run higher-level military academies" in the "Military academies" article got populated? I am engaged in a research project in which I am trying to identify all the military academies in the world, their dates of functioning, any previous names, whether they are state-controlled and -funded, and whether their graduates receive commissions in their countries' armed forces. So, does anyone know of a global listing of military academies?

Thank you very much in advance.

Nathan

--128.146.120.121 17:33, 17 January 2006 (UTC)


[edit] game space on HD

Is Unreal Tournament the most HD-space-hungry computer game?

I strongly suggest you reword this question, because I have no idea what you're asking. I'll give a punt, but I can't guarantee anything.
Now, is Unreal Tournament the most HD-space-hungry computer game? Answer: I'd don't think so. F.E.A.R. I think has since taken the record, if the distribution medium is anything to go off; however that is set to change as artificial intelligence engines, like the Unreal Engine, become more sophisticated, and therefore requiring more memory and more HDD space to store the AI code. --JB Adder | Talk 11:54, 18 January 2006 (UTC)
I'm not even sure that FPS games are the most HD-space-hungry; I haven't installed FEAR, so I don't know how much HD space it actually uses, but from my experience, commercial Flightsims like MSFS or Xplane take up much more HD space than shooters - not because the code is so complicated but because the sheer amount of terrain data is so huge. If you count third-party add-ons, an installation of MSFS can grow well beyond 10GB in no time at all -- Ferkelparade π 14:09, 18 January 2006 (UTC)
AI Code is nothing when it comes to the amount of hard drive space a game needs. Millions of lines of code are still just a few tens of megabytes compiled. They may need more RAM to load and calculate, but that's not the question. The single largest space consumer is the art, especially high resolution, high quality textures, which can easily take up several megabytes just for the data to create a single 3d model. With the growing size and detail level of environments, graphics are going to be the big driver of space requirements. Night Gyr 08:29, 19 January 2006 (UTC)

xplane 8 need 10GB in HD.There is a game that need more space than that game.

FEAR isn't that big: a snug 5GB. Metal Gear Solid 2: Substance came out to a ginormous 10GB, probably because of all the movies and voice acting. I can't think of anything bigger, besides things like flight simulators. --Sum0 16:40, 18 January 2006 (UTC)

this is on x-plane site: "IF YOU WANT X-PLANE 8.21 WITH THE INCREDIBLE GLOBAL SCENERY, YOU NEED TO ORDER IT ON DVD... IT IS ALMOST 60 GIG... THOUSANDS OF TIMES TOO LARGE TO DOWNLOAD AS A FREE DEMO!"

[edit] IDENTITY, definition

Hello, the subject of particular interest is identity in the architecture, but before approaching it I need it to start from a state of the question of the word and to analyze the different definitions and the connotations that it acquires. I would appreciate that you recommend me bibliography referred to the general and specific subject.

(Maybe the reason no one is answering is because you need to narrow your question down to something less vague. —Keenan Pepper 18:53, 20 January 2006 (UTC))

[edit] Ukraine

What type of economic system does the Ukraine have? ie-capitalist, socialist, communist, mixed, etc.

According to Ukraine#Economy of Ukraine, socialist, with the current government leaning towards privatisation. GeeJo (t) (c) •19:39, 17 January 2006 (UTC)
The main Economy of Ukraine article has a lot more detail. If you read this article and the article linked in GeeJo's post (above) you wil know more about this subject than any of your classmates.  :-) hydnjo talk 19:48, 17 January 2006 (UTC)
Terminology is a bit tricky here. GeeJo's answer is about the common usage, but strictly speaking they've got a capitalist economy, like pretty much any country in the world. Even the Netherlands; despite the many socialist 'corrections', the basis is still capitalist (ie we've got a liberal (free) market system). The Ukraine used to have a socialist ecomomy when it was part of the USSR. See socialism. Particularly the second line; Communist economies don't exist (yet?) on a national scale. The largest scale example of that would probably be Israel's kibbutzim. Impress your teach with that bit of wisdom! DirkvdM 21:00, 17 January 2006 (UTC)
Terminology isn't really that tricky if people would stop confusing political terms with economic ones. :) I'd put it this way: There are free markets, regulated markets and planned economies, and they form a spectrum from the 100% free to the 100% planned. Politically, the right favors more free markets and the left favors more regulated markets. --BluePlatypus 09:56, 18 January 2006 (UTC)

But in many non-Anglo-Saxon countries the political right doesnt like business getting too much power, so favours more political control as well. The nationalist politicians of Eastern Europe may well go down this route (like Putin) Jameswilson

[edit] What is the windiest street in the world?

Many websites make the claim that Lombard Street in San Francisco, California, is the windiest street in the world ("windiest" as in "lots of twists and turns", not as in "gusty and breezy"). I see that our own article on that street doesn't make such a grand claim, stating instead that Lombard Street is the "crookedest [most winding] street in the United States". But is that even true? What is the crookedest street in the world? In the United States? My own vote has to go to the highway that leads south of Ebolowa, Cameroon, to the border with Gabon. Switchback after switchback, apparently so that the Cameroonian military can hide just out of sight in case the Gabonese army decides to invade. But, then, it's a highway, so maybe it doesn't count. Any objective sources on this topic? — BrianSmithson 20:08, 17 January 2006 (UTC)

  • Lombard isn't even the crookedest street in San Francisco; Vermont St. has one fewer curves, but they're all a lot sharper and steeper. No pretty flowers, though. --jpgordon∇∆∇∆ 21:02, 17 January 2006 (UTC)
Wellington is also known as 'windy city'. Which street would be windiest, I haven't a clue. As for crooked streets, old European cities made their streets crooked deliberately to slow down invading armies. And Amsterdam's canals make a half circle. But in the sense of winding streets, ones that make long steep climbs would probably qualify best. Maybe the Khyber pass? And then there's always the 'long and winding road that leads to your door'. Don't know where that is, though, probably somewhere in Liverpool. :) DirkvdM 21:04, 17 January 2006 (UTC)\
Can't speak for the world, but Melbourne is by far the windiest place in Australia in my experience, and the non-Paris end of Collins St is easily the windiest place in Melbourne I know of. JackofOz 21:21, 17 January 2006 (UTC)

I have a question also. I was told by a science professor that Perth, Western Australia is the second windiest city after Chicago. Is this true or just some made up informtion to keep the students interested?

I would have thought Mexico City would be the windiest city, based on the number of inhabitants and quantity of refried beans consumed there. StuRat 10:23, 18 January 2006 (UTC)

[edit] Hell`s thermodynamics

I was wondering if there is any hint in any of the religions that consider the existence of hell as to hell is either exothermic(that releases heat) or endothermic (that absorbes heat). You could also address the problem outside of the religious scope if you wish. Thanks.

Raul Ovalle. Dominican Republic

  • Have a look at this[[40]]. --Goshawk 20:54, 17 January 2006 (UTC)
  • Yup, that's an old joke. (well, to me anyway..) In any case the existence of Hell is rather disputed. Judaisim didn't really have one, and neither did early Christianity (One of the early fathers of the church, Origen flat-out denied it). So there certainly isn't any proper Canon as to the thermodynamic nature of hell. As quoted in the Hell article, Pope JP2 said: Hell indicates the state of those who freely and definitively separate themselves from God, the source of all life and joy., so you could, I suppose, interpret that as an "isolated system" in thermodynamic terms. --BluePlatypus 21:00, 17 January 2006 (UTC)
Hmm, not 'after they die'? So they (including me) are already in hell? So hell is here on Earth? And if I'm already in hell, then what did the poor buggers in war zones and natural disaster areas do wrong? Or might that be heaven? Does God have a sense of humour we don't get? DirkvdM 07:45, 18 January 2006 (UTC)
  • Cool, I agree with BluePlatypus! I think the answer to DirkvdM's question requires taking the Pope's definition of hell at face value. The Pope meant hell is a state of spritual isolation AND ALSO NOT a physical location with brimstone and armies of darkness and such. So those of us who are living in comfort but nevertheless feeling spiritually unsatisfied are in hell (or are hell-bound, I'm not really sure which the Pope meant), but the people in, say, Sudan, who live in a world that rather resembles the American pop-culture hell, are not living in metaphysical hell (unless they, too, are feeling spiritually detached, which must be a great temptation). They are still miserable, but the Christian God seems to have no problem with the "bad things happen to good people" conundrum that makes us mortals very confused; see Book of Job. --Mareino 13:39, 18 January 2006 (UTC)
You have to estimate the amount of fuel needed to burn all the dead people since hell came into action. Still, they shall burn a very long time without disappearing in ashes. Then make an assumption wether hell is isolated or not from the rest of the universe (a black hole ? the center of earth ?), and so on. Good luck.
Can't believe people believing in some hell. It makes the question of God's benevolence and power too hard. Wouldn't Occam stir in his seat in Paradise with such unnecessary concepts. --DLL 22:28, 18 January 2006 (UTC)
That's not hard to believe. If there is a personification of good, then there should also be a personification of bad. Unless the two are rolled into one. Actually, the mediaeval God was a bit of that (in the sense of being the judge, although he left the dirty part of job to the Devil). And why not a personification of all sorts of qualities and phenomena. Most religions seem to have that. I'd say it's rather the concept of one good God without at least one counterpart that's 'unnatural'. Why is it that monotheism has taken off so strongly. Understanding that would give a good insight into the human mind. By the way, funny, it's 'God' and ' the Devil'. Never noticed that before. If there's only one Devil, then why not just 'Devil'? DirkvdM 08:09, 19 January 2006 (UTC)
More than one Devil. Technicaly, it's more like a title. Think of Lucifer and Beelzebub and Satan and all the rest.
I said that wrong, I meant that 'the' should be dropped if it's a name, like 'God'. That would also explain the capitalisation. But if there are so many devils (as with 'gods', the plural is supposedly not to be capitalised), then how can it be 'the' Devil? Aren't those just different names for the same guy (girl?)? DirkvdM 07:42, 21 January 2006 (UTC)
It makes more sense if you do this: replace 'Devil' with 'King'. All those entities were 'Kings' of Hell, i.e., the 'Devil'. And I don't think that they're interchangable, but some people do. It's a matter of opinion. Maybe someday I'll read the Bible and find out if I'm right.
It's worth remembering that some descriptions of Hell (such as Dante's) include both fiery and frozen regions, so in those decriptions there may be equilibrium. Grutness...wha? 05:17, 21 January 2006 (UTC)

[edit] Accounting-income statement

I have an unaudited income statement and i am asked to fix it base on the informations provided. 1. This is a company only run for 4 months every year. The income statement showed only the 4 months rent expense and the information provided the amount of annual rent. However, the information did not state whather the company really paid for 4 months or annual rent. So the question is should I change the amoung of rent expense or not? 2. The company is run by the owner and a part-time employee. The income statement showed only the wages of the part-time employee. So should I add the owner's salary? However, the information did not provide whether the owner really received salary or not, or he only received the company profit. —Preceding unsigned comment added by 72.59.30.45 (talk • contribs)

Is this a question from an H&R Block exam? ..."What is H&R Block?" on the Final Jeopardy! clue. The clue read "Most of this firm's 70,000 seasonal white-collar employees work only four months a year." hydnjo talk 21:31, 17 January 2006 (UTC)

Nope. It is not a question from an H&R Block exam. In fact, I do not know what is H&R Block.

FYI, this site is only to familiarize you with the company. Sorry that I couldn't help with your actual question. hydnjo talk 23:35, 17 January 2006 (UTC)


Accounting regulations vary according to the state or country. The basis is always in the law of the contracts, e.g., is the rent made to the owner or to the company ? If the company uses the premises only four months, who does use it (and pays) during the other seasons when there is no activity ? Then if there is a debt, does it appear in the information provided, and so on. --DLL 22:19, 18 January 2006 (UTC)

The question did not state which state or country, the rent is made to the owner or to the company, the company needed to pay for the whole year or only 4 months. That is the reasons why i do not know to do this question, since the question has many unclear points. May be the question is set to be unclear, in order to let us determine by ourselves.

[edit] Rome and the sea

What's the shortest distance from the city-centre of current-day Rome to the Mediterranean Sea? (And don't say "a straight line" :P) GeeJo (t) (c) •22:33, 17 January 2006 (UTC)

I seem to remember from my Roman history class that it was 12 miles inland, but i can't verify that for you. СПУТНИКССС Р 22:40, 17 January 2006 (UTC)
Ah that would be from the Tyrrhenian Sea. To the Mediterranean would depend on where the "border" between the Tyrrhenian, Ionian Sea and the Mediterranean is. I just measured it on an atlas and it's at least 550 km (342 miles) to Cape Spartivento, Calabria. CambridgeBayWeather (Talk) 23:17, 17 January 2006 (UTC)
Ta muchly! Sputnik correctly assumed I had no idea about the existence of the Tyrrhenian Sea, so it looks like I both got the answer I wanted and learned something new. :) GeeJo (t) (c) •23:21, 17 January 2006 (UTC)
That's also the reason I come to the reference desk. See the question below. CambridgeBayWeather (Talk) 00:22, 18 January 2006 (UTC)

The distance is 0 km from Rome to the Papal see, LOL. StuRat 10:43, 18 January 2006 (UTC)

[edit] Signal Corps in WWII

My Grandfather was in the Signal Corps in WWII. I have an item which I do not know what it is. It is in german and looks like a match box. On the fron of it is written: SAKERHETS TANDSTICKOR It lookslike a mechanical device. I would like to know what it is and what it was use for. Any help you could give me would be greatly appreciated.

Jeff haggard

They were a Swedish brand of matches. They also made lighters and according to one thing I just read they also made hand buzzers. Try google "SAKERHETS TANDSTICKOR", plenty of hits. CambridgeBayWeather (Talk) 23:00, 17 January 2006 (UTC)
Can't find a picture. Do you have one I'm curious. Thanks. CambridgeBayWeather (Talk) 23:03, 17 January 2006 (UTC)
We don't have an article on that? I had always assumed that that was the matchstick brand. Or is that just in the Netherlands? Well, Sweden too, I assume. By the way, 'tandstickor' sounds a lot like the Dutch word for 'toothpick'. Is that what it means? And, if so, what effect does sulfur have on teeth? :) DirkvdM 07:58, 18 January 2006 (UTC)
"Tand" is indeed "tooth" in Swedish as well, so "tandsticka" could be used to mean toothpick, although "tandpetare" (tooth-picker) is the more common word. "tänd-", however, is from the word "tända" (to light). --BluePlatypus 09:46, 18 January 2006 (UTC)
It's not a brand, "säkerhets tändstickor" (or more correctly "säkerhetständstickor") is Swedish for "safety matches". Safety matches was a Swedish invention, and they held a worldwide monopoly. See also Ivar Kreuger. There are some nice pictures here of some of the various brand-names they were sold under (webpage of the Matchstick Museum in Jönköping). So the reason why your thing has the word "safety matches" on it must be because it's intended to look like a matchbox. So it's probably some kind of novelty item. --BluePlatypus 15:18, 18 January 2006 (UTC)

[edit] Fun With Dick & Jane

Does "Fun With Dick & Jane" have passion, revenge and anything that has something to do with a soap opera?

See Dick and Jane. Given the usage of sentences like "Oh, see. Oh, see Jane. Funny, funny Jane," I can't really see them being particularly controversial in their topic choices. GeeJo (t) (c) •23:02, 17 January 2006 (UTC)
I believe the questioner is referring to Fun with Dick and Jane (2005 movie). Read the article, click on the links. Natgoo 00:13, 18 January 2006 (UTC)

[edit] Arthritis

Is any type of arthritis cureable?

By curable do you mean treatable? The section Arthritis#Treatment has some discussion about treatment. hydnjo talk 23:41, 17 January 2006 (UTC)

Sure, septic arthritis is curable with antibiotics. alteripse 01:18, 18 January 2006 (UTC)

[edit] January 18

[edit] international business

in what ways does a company making a direct foreign investment in a new factory have more control than a company engaged in direct exporting? 70.50.120.231 01:32, 18 January 2006 (UTC)

Your answer: Please do your own homework. Most of us are already in school or have already been through school and have done our homework; it's your turn to do yours. Your question may be deleted if you see this notice; you should reformat it to prevent this from happening. Cernen Xanthine Katrena 07:48, 18 January 2006 (UTC)

[edit] Plants

I'm trying to make a good analogy--what is the hardiest plant? Or a plant that grows under very extreme conditions? I can't be too specific as to what I'm looking for, a flower(ing plant) would be nice, if one exists; anyway I mean plant like a five-year-old means plant, so while it would be interesting to know of some algae or something that lives on the geothermal ducts (maybe I could use that I guess...), I'd be nice to know of some beautiful flower that grows at in some kind of ridiculous conditions.

Well, the first thing that comes to mind is a cactus. I mean, it doesn't get much more extreme than a desert. Cactus flowers are very beautiful, as well. Also, i've seen some trees, like firs and such, growing right out of a rock face. That's pretty hardy. You might want to take a look at Biome for different habitats, and follow the links to different regions, with different vegatation. You could also take a look at extremophiles, but like you said, most of those creatures would not be recognizable as plants. Hope this is of help... СПУТНИКССС Р 02:39, 18 January 2006 (UTC)
The "Methuselah" tree, a bristlecone, earth's oldest living inhabitant at the age of 4767(±) years would have standing to claim "most hardy". hydnjo talk 02:57, 18 January 2006 (UTC)
I'd say the Methuselah would take the cake. See the bristlecone link for more. The lone cypress tree on the 17-Mile Drive on Pebble Beach is their official symbol (according to our article) and is pretty iconic too in any case. Oh, and Mav has a picture on his userpage of a flower growing on the edge of Death Valley, which would pretty much meet your last point exactly. - Taxman Talk 06:19, 18 January 2006 (UTC)
Edelweiss? Though the article doesn't say it grows in extreme conditions, just inaccessible places. By the way, long-living doesn't necessarily mean hardy, well in pants anyway (dependign on what you mean by the term). Plants that grow under extremely dry conditions have little opportunity to grow, so they grow slowly. And slowing down means living longer, especially in plants. Right? DirkvdM 08:14, 18 January 2006 (UTC)
Try Purple Saxifrage, Arctic Bell-heather, Dwarf Willow, Polar Willow, Lichen, moss and on and on. The heather is used to boil water to give a special flavour to tea and there are several varieties of berries that are edible. There is also the banana plant (don't know the real name) that is yellow and edible, the Inuit children would eat it as candy. For other arctic plants try this and [41]. All of these survive at -50C. CambridgeBayWeather (Talk) 11:48, 18 January 2006 (UTC)
How about an air fern? I don't think anything kills them. User:Zoe|(talk) 17:23, 18 January 2006 (UTC)
Because they're already dead. Read the article!
Dandelion? Those damn things don't go away, ever...even during the winter...Cernen Xanthine Katrena 23:25, 18 January 2006 (UTC)
...and you just about need napalm to be rid of convolvulus. Grutness...wha? 05:21, 21 January 2006 (UTC)

[edit] Adequate ventilation

My dad had to solder a few wires in my room with lead solder. We opened up the window in order to allow the fumes out. Is this considered adequate ventilation? I'm concerned about lead poisoning. KeeganB

If the solder was was purchased in the last 20 years or so, it probably didn't contain any lead at all. In any event, the heat that your dad used to solder a few wires melted the soldering alloy but was not sufficiently hot so as to vaporize any significant amount of the the metals within the alloy. The smoke that was produced was a result of vaporizing the flux that was included within the soldering material. hydnjo talk 05:35, 18 January 2006 (UTC)
In other words, we aren't doctors but we think that you should be fine. Dismas|(talk) 05:52, 18 January 2006 (UTC)

I know for sure it was lead solder. My dad refuses to use anything else; according to him lead-free solder is inadequate for certain things. KeeganB

If you're not puking, or showing signs of cancer, then my guess is you're a-okay. If you can still smell something, chances are you should put a fan up against the window facing outwards to blow out anything residual. I do this to air out my room every once in a while. It starts to smell like male in here often. Suppose I should clean it more, but meh. Cernen Xanthine Katrena 07:46, 18 January 2006 (UTC)
Yeah, you should be just fine. Lead poisoning is not as great a risk with metallic lead. --BluePlatypus 11:35, 18 January 2006 (UTC)
But don't take my word for it.. Here's a Material Safety Data Sheet for lead. Solid lead is believed to present a relatively low hazard to health, but it is a cumulative poison, and can cause serious harm if inhaled as a powder, or ingested over a long period.. So as long as you ventilate and don't eat it, it should be safe. --BluePlatypus 11:38, 18 January 2006 (UTC)

There is no lead exposure, but I think solder fume is on par with ciggie smoke.[42]

[edit] gestion de production

comment et pourquoi est apparue la gestion de production dans les entreprises ?

Transliteration: how and why the management of production in the companies appeared. Of course, Babelfish is a great big fat liar and nobody should ever trust it/him/her, but still. Any takers? Cernen Xanthine Katrena 07:43, 18 January 2006 (UTC)

Translation seems fine (had to look up 'gestion' though). Haven't a clue what the questioneer is asking though. Some hoax, perchance. Don't get it, so must be German. DirkvdM 08:21, 18 January 2006 (UTC)
Yeah, it's production management. This looks like a typical homework question. Fais ton travail toi-même s'il te plait: deeptrivia (talk) 14:47, 18 January 2006 (UTC)
Do your home work AND try the French reference Desk : "Poser une question" sur la page d'Accueil (Main). They have a "Les questions les plus drôles ou absurdes: Anthologie de l'Oracle" section (funniest questions).
Now, how and why ? Why, because there was a need for management (too much unemployed workers, put some at the top) ; how, by giving high wages to them. --DLL 22:01, 18 January 2006 (UTC)
Please do your own homework. Most of us are already in school or have already been through school and have done our homework; it's your turn to do yours. Your question may be deleted if you see this notice; you should reformat it to prevent this from happening. Cernen Xanthine Katrena 23:23, 18 January 2006 (UTC)

[edit] UPFL

Can anybody help me figure out just what this is all about? I can't seem to figure out if it's some sort of legitimate football league that I've never heard of (somewhat doubtful), if it's some sort of weird fantasy league [http://www.wwfl.net/upfl/finances.php (with many marginal players that have been off of professional for a few years!), or some sort of strange, elaborate hoax. I'm really confused. Any help would be appreciated. -Tim Rhymeless (Er...let's shimmy) 10:14, 18 January 2006 (UTC)

Some sort of weird fantasy league = very yes. There's a place for owners to log in, and the message board sub-heading is "Sim Football." But the message board hasn't been posted on in over 4 months and the most users ever online was 13, so I'm guessing it's defunct. And I'm pretty sure Maurice Clarett has never played for the Colorado Venom. --Maxamegalon2000 16:05, 18 January 2006 (UTC)

[edit] Rainbow trout and the environment

Do rainbow trout have a detrimental effect on the environment? I've searched extensively on the web but can't find any relevant articles. Thanks in advance. 195.194.74.92 11:27, 18 January 2006 (UTC)

I think not, but then it depends on where you are too. Working off my few trips to the Trout Farm in Ebor, New South Wales, I'd say it doesn't have a detrimental effect there. A more accurate answer can be given when you specify a more definite location. Sorry I can't be of any more help. --JB Adder | Talk 11:37, 18 January 2006 (UTC)
No, that's very helpful, thank you. Sorry, I wasn't more specific -- I'm researching the impact of this alien species in the UK. It seems there are conflicting views on this subject, especially regarding fish farms. I'm also interested in whether self-sustaining communities of trout in the UK -- in rivers, ponds and reservoirs where they haven't been introduced for sport -- have had a negative impact on water ecology. If you have any more suggestions, I would greatly appreciate them. --195.194.74.92 11:59, 18 January 2006 (UTC)
Rainbow trout are very similar in habits & ecological impact to native Brown trout (though not as tasty) so I'd expect them to have minimal impact in the UK. AllanHainey 12:40, 18 January 2006 (UTC)
I would expect the rainbow trout to partially or fully displace the brown trout, if they occupy the same ecological niche. StuRat

[edit] states

HI, Do you by any chance know how many states there are in the world?216.152.208.1 13:27, 18 January 2006 (UTC)

Are you talking about countries or states?..i think he was talking about states..not countries.....
Jayant, 17 Years, India|(Talk) 14:37, 18 January 2006 (UTC)
The original meaning of the word "state" is "country". It has come to also mean province in some countries, such as the US and Australia. I assume they meant the original meaning, or country, as asking how many provinces there are in the world is a weird question to pose. StuRat 14:43, 18 January 2006 (UTC)
Searching for a true definition of a state. Houses of representatives ? US states got them. Own's money ? EU countries share the Euro. Seat in the UN ? Some won't. Being sovereign is vague. Capacity to enter into relations with the other states, as in the Montevideo Convention ? Some other states won't speak with you! Just search for friends, a territory, a flag, and create a government, you'l have one more. --DLL 21:50, 18 January 2006 (UTC)
On the other hand, if "states" is meant in the sense where it is equivalent to "provinces", or administrative divisions of a country in general, then this page on the CIA World Factbook web site is may be useful. To get a proper total would require examining each entry to extract the correct detail, which I leave to the original poster if interested; but just stripping out some obviously irrelevant things like dates and adding up the remaining numbers in the file, I get a total of 4,637. It seems likely enough that the true answer is somewhere above 2,500, anyway. --Anonymous, 00:20 UTC, January 19, 2006.

There is no one true answer, because of the different definitions you can use. Even if you're talking about countries, rather than subnational states (like, say, Oklahoma), you'll get a different answer depending on your definition. There are 191 UN members, but there are some internationally recognised countries that aren't members (like the Vatican City). then there are countries which have only limited recognition, either for political reasons (like Turkish Cyprus and Somaliland) or because they only have nominal independence (like Wales or Guam). An approximate answer would be between 191 and about 220 (for what it's worth, both the Olympics and FIFA have 203 member nations - and not entirely the same 203!). If you mean "states" as in the 50 subregions of the US, then you have even more problems, because not all countries call their subdivisions states - there are provinces, oblasts, wilayas, counties, departements, lander, cantons... this one may simply be unanswerable. Grutness...wha? 05:35, 21 January 2006 (UTC)

[edit] Quake 4

The interior of every building is green. What's wrong?

Saint Patrick's Day comes early? GeeJo (t) (c) • 10:37, 13 January 2006 (UTC)

Don't be stupid. I think there is something wrong with the gamma correction.

Being stupid can be fun. StuRat 11:43, 13 January 2006 (UTC)
Though not helpful. I had this problem too: I think it's because of having an older graphics card. The solution for me was to right-click the shortcut, go on Properties, then add +seta r_renderer "ARB" to the Target, so you get C:\Program Files\id Software\Quake 4\Quake4.exe" +seta r_renderer "ARB". --Sum0 23:43, 13 January 2006 (UTC)

It didn't work. Look, I've got an ATI Radeon 9200 with a one year old driver on my HP PC which I got from England.

I have to say it took me a while to make any sort of connection between the title and the question. JIP | Talk 10:05, 19 January 2006 (UTC)

Well, I think it's quite straightforward. Can a patch fix this?

[edit] ram and game question

my friend said that he saw on a site that there is a game (or they are creating one)that will need 6GB of ram, to the game run. This is true??

If it is, you'd need a $4000 PC. User:bd

This game doesn't sound like it would have a very big audience if it is true. Who do you know that has 6 GB of memory in their PC? --Optichan 17:21, 18 January 2006 (UTC)
On the other hand, if they were starting work on a game which will take several years to develop, they might be assuming the price of that much RAM will have come down to a reasonable level by then, and will be widely available on most PCs. StuRat 23:33, 19 January 2006 (UTC)

[edit] Days of Our Lives

In which state is the fictional town of "Salem" in? The viewers are so, so, so dying to know.

Tamil Nadu. (as good a guess as any..) --BluePlatypus 16:48, 18 January 2006 (UTC)

It's a fictional town. It doesn't exist. So it isn't in a state. If the script-writers choose to tell you that it is fictionally located in Utah, for example, then that's where you can imagine it being. Our article on Days of Our Lives, which you should have checked first, indicates that the first episode told viewers what state it was in. Ground Zero | t 17:51, 18 January 2006 (UTC)

Try Days of Our Lives#The first episode and read to the end of the paragraph. CambridgeBayWeather (Talk) 17:52, 18 January 2006 (UTC)
I still think it's in India. :) --BluePlatypus 19:13, 18 January 2006 (UTC)
Are there witches in Tamil Nadu ? DLL 21:40, 18 January 2006 (UTC)

[edit] Length of shore lines of Lakes Michigan, Erie and Ontario

I'm trying to find out what the total length of the combined shorelines of North America's Great Lakes is. Of the Wikipedia articles on individual lakes, only those on Lakes Superior and Huron seem to provide that figure. Are corresponding figures available for Lakes Michigan, Erie and Ontario?

As coastlines and shorelines have Hausdorff dimension between 1 and 2, the length will vary according to which resolution you use. If you use a map with higher resolution, you will see more small irregularities like bays and peninsulas, and get a longer shoreline. See also How Long Is the Coast of Britain?, an academic paper on the subject. Unfortunately this is not much help... 130.238.41.146 17:07, 18 January 2006 (UTC) (Essin on Swedish Wikipedia)
Alliance for the Great Lakes[43] gives 1,640 miles for Lake Michigan. Sea Grant Wisconsin[44] gives 856 miles of shoreline for Lake Erie and 726 miles of shoreline for Lake Ontario. Rmhermen 18:56, 18 January 2006 (UTC)
Many thanks!

[edit] Oslofjord

How long in miles is Oslofjord from the mouth to Oslo ?? thank you

From Færder Fyr lighthouse (See the map at: Oslo Fjord) to Oslo, the distance is 60 nautical miles (110 km, 70 miles). (source) --BluePlatypus 17:10, 18 January 2006 (UTC)

[edit] The King is dead. Long live the King!

Whilst writing up an article on the phrase, I realised none of the sources I was using actually mentioned when the phrase itself was used. A quick wiki/google search only provided the text of the formal proclamation given by the Accession Council, which doesnt contain the phrase itself. Is "The King is dead. Long live the King" then only a catchy summary of the complete proclamation with no official usage, and if so, who first employed that particular phrasing? GeeJo (t) (c) • 17:29, 18 January 2006 (UTC)

Hmm, come to think of it, this question might have been more appropriate at the Language desk. Ah well, may as well see what responses it can garner :) GeeJo (t) (c) • 17:31, 18 January 2006 (UTC)
Look at Le roi est mort. Vive le roi! CambridgeBayWeather (Talk) 17:47, 18 January 2006 (UTC)
Mmm-hmm. That doesnt help with the original source for the phrase - none of the french language sites I've checked list a source either (while my French is fairly good, I'm loathe to check out detailed books on French history - they tend to be a bit dense.) Was it then the proclamation given at the coronation of French monarchy? If so, it seems they were a fair bit more succint in their proclamations than us Brits! Thank you anyway, though :) GeeJo (t) (c) • 17:55, 18 January 2006 (UTC)

Well, fr:Sacre (France) implies that the phrase arose out of "le mort saisit le vif", but again doesnt actually mention if it's used in the coronation, or if it's simply a popular summary of a longer text. It'll do for now, so a definite Thank You to CBW for putting me on the right track, but does anyone know the definitive answer? GeeJo (t) (c) • 18:13, 18 January 2006 (UTC)

Perfect. Exactly what I was looking for! GeeJo (t) (c) • 20:26, 18 January 2006 (UTC)
Perhaps worth mentioning? It was used in the final scene of Layer Cake. Cernen Xanthine Katrena 23:19, 18 January 2006 (UTC)
If so, it's also used a lyric in Megadeth's "Kill the King" from the albums Capitol Punishment and Rude Awakening. --jh51681 00:14, 20 January 2006 (UTC)

[edit] Real or Fanciful

Is there a such thing as an animal that can jump higher than a building?

Well, some buildings are very low... DJ Clayworth 18:25, 18 January 2006 (UTC)
Sure. Even you can, provided gravity is low enough or the building small enough. Assuming you're on earth though, pumas are pretty impressive jumpers, they can reach a height of about 18 feet in one leap. GeeJo (t) (c) • 18:30, 18 January 2006 (UTC)
An animal that can jump higher than a building? Of course! Every animal that can jump, can jump higher than a building!!!!!! Buildings can't jump, you fools! Hahahahahahaha... (rolls around on floor holding spleen, and laughing until tears come out of his eyes). СПУТНИКССС Р 01:39, 19 January 2006 (UTC)
Well, apart from the house of the Baba Yaga, anyway. GeeJo (t) (c) • 09:58, 19 January 2006 (UTC)
Discussions about animal capacities (not buildings) always give examples such as "If a flea had human size, it could jump as high as buildings, &c.". But this is mere linear comparison. Such a flea would be more weighty than us, its muscles (?) would not be so effective, and so on. Nope. --DLL 13:14, 19 January 2006 (UTC)
P.S. As for jumping buildings : think of an ostrich's egg when laid, it comes down from 1 m. high. Also, it is a home, built of artifical material (rolls over the floor, &c.).
If the animal starts on the roof of the building, then jumps up, part of its flight might be higher than the building's high point. Are you referring to some creature like a kangaroo that leaps small buildings in a single bound, or the cat family that can leap into a tree? User:AlMac|(talk) 04:41, 21 January 2006 (UTC)

[edit] Car Bombs???

is their a site where the car bombs are listed???

See Car bomb for a list of incidents of car bombings. Or are you looking to buy/make one? If so, I'd advise against it - it's both very dangerous and highly illegal. If you're dead set on it though, The Big Book of Mischief lists various ways to produce home-made explosives. Just make sure you produce them far from other people, so you're the only one to be removed from the gene pool. GeeJo (t) (c) • 18:34, 18 January 2006 (UTC)

Do you think I'am a terrorist??? lol i'am going to blow my brains out for the destruction of america??? anyway what about Truck Bombs??? --FragileFrigateBird 18:43, 18 January 2006 (UTC)

If you look in the right hand column of the tables in car bomb, you'll see that the type of bomb (car or lorry) is listed along with the incidents. GeeJo (t) (c) • 19:00, 18 January 2006 (UTC)

[edit] largest wrestler that ever lived???

'largest wrestler that ever lived???'largest wrestler that ever lived???SABLE VISCERA MARK HENRY BIG SHOW ANDRE THE GIANT!!!!!!!??? WHATS YOUR GUESS???

!!!!!!!!!!!BET YOU I CAN SHOUT LOUDER THAN YOU!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! DirkvdM 20:57, 18 January 2006 (UTC)

Replies??? --FragileFrigateBird 18:57, 18 January 2006 (UTC)

Show images if you can... geejo largest???

ANYONE????

I'm sure theres an article. I would think Andre the Giant, as he was 7 foot 4. Big show is 7'2, and Mark Henry is 6'1. Andre the Giant was the tallest, yes. Although there may be a secret wrestler thats 100'11--Young XenoNeon (converse) 19:12, 18 January 2006 (UTC)

secret wrestlers??? which wrestler smelled the worst?? mankind or someone else? --FragileFrigateBird 19:16, 18 January 2006 (UTC)

I haven't really smelt any wrestlers. You could do it yourself, though. It WAS probably Mankind. The secret thing was a joke. Laugh with me. --Young XenoNeon (converse) 19:19, 18 January 2006 (UTC)

  • Antaeus was a giant, wrestled with Hercules too. DLL 21:36, 18 January 2006 (UTC)
I was about to say... Heracles. Dismas|(talk) 21:41, 18 January 2006 (UTC)
I'm just putting in a tag to resolve the page format issue, I hope. LarryMac 20:29, 23 January 2006 (UTC)

[edit] George Walker Bush leak???

who leaked??? the info on plame? --FragileFrigateBird 19:13, 18 January 2006 (UTC) no details just facts --FragileFrigateBird 19:13, 18 January 2006 (UTC)

Please rephrase. Follow the guidelines at the top of the page, maybe? It doesn't really make sense. Thank you

yeah gwb leaked right? rove? vp chency

See Plame affair for a a fairly detailed write-up on teh topic. GeeJo (t) (c) • 19:24, 18 January 2006 (UTC)

is bush really supposed to be president?? ralph nader conflict...

Of the U.S.? Yep. Of France? Nope. GeeJo (t) (c) • 19:52, 18 January 2006 (UTC)
hang on... the question was is he supposed to be president. He is president, but whether he's supposed to be is a trickier one. Grutness...wha? 04:43, 21 January 2006 (UTC)

[edit] Crazy Frog!

hi, does anyone know the name of the original song of the 'Crazy Frog'? it's an 80's song with no lyrics and the crazy frog song is a cover of it. --Cosmic girl 19:55, 18 January 2006 (UTC)

Axel F, used in Beverly Hills Cop as I recall. GeeJo (t) (c) • 19:56, 18 January 2006 (UTC)

thank you!:)--Cosmic girl 20:25, 18 January 2006 (UTC)

And there's the Axel F (Crazy Frog song) article. hydnjo talk 20:41, 18 January 2006 (UTC)
...this is all assuming that it's the first crazy frog single you mean. The second one is a cover of the 70s synth track Popcorn, originally (I think) by Perrey and Kingsley, and later covered by Hot Butter (or convered in hot butter, perhaps) Grutness...wha? 04:39, 21 January 2006 (UTC)

[edit] School Paste

I need to find a large quantity (5 gallons) of school paste (the edible type). Can anyone help?

Contact any local school that uses paste and ask them where they get it. Or just call office supply places and ask them if they have it or know where to get. It's commonly in half gallon containers if I recall right, so just get enough of them. - Taxman Talk 21:24, 18 January 2006 (UTC)
If in doubt, Costco and Sam's Club are probably good places to check. (Costco sells five gallon jars of mayonnaise, so why wouldn't they have edible paste?) Of course, I'm forced to wonder, why is it you need the edible kind? Is this for personal consumption or a school project? Cernen Xanthine Katrena 23:04, 18 January 2006 (UTC)

Sounds like a big frat-party thing to me. --Zeizmic 23:18, 18 January 2006 (UTC)

[edit] lemon tree

What brand,type or kind of fertilizer should i use for my lemon tree? Both in the winter when kept inside and when outdoors in summer. It is in a barrel with a mix of promix and sand and is approx. 2ft tall.

My grandmother uses Miracle-Gro on everything. Ed Hume supposedly recommends it, and he's a Washington native (and if you can get things to grow in Washington, you're a master gardener! Wahaha!) I'd definitely give it a try. Cernen Xanthine Katrena 23:07, 18 January 2006 (UTC)
If the movie about his life is to believed, Burt Munro swore by urine... Lisiate 00:15, 24 January 2006 (UTC)

[edit] Desk toy?

What's the name for one of those desktop "volumetric displays" made up of a set of thin, tightly-packed parallel metal tubes - the kind that people always shove their faces into as it retains the shape (so long as the rods are kept horizontal)? I remember seeing them fairly regularly alongside Newton's cradles and other miscellaneous toys. GeeJo (t) (c) • 20:55, 18 January 2006 (UTC)

While looking I found this [45] WAY cool! --Zeizmic 21:38, 18 January 2006 (UTC)
Ta muchly. From there I found it: Pin art. GeeJo (t) (c) • 22:04, 18 January 2006 (UTC)

Hmm, that's gotten me curious. anyone know who invented/patented/marketed the idea? GeeJo (t) (c) • 00:33, 19 January 2006 (UTC)

[edit] Studying Abroad...

i'm currently a sophmore in High School, and I'm considering studying abroad (namely London). Is there any good schools there? And even so, could I pull it off as a westerner? Pacific Coast Highway|Spam me! 15:51, June 10, 2008 (UTC)

London is positively crammed with good universities (which is what you will have to learn to call them if you go there). Imperial College London is world class; so is London School of Economics. Most of the others are pretty good: see University of London. However you should be aware that old Polytechnics (what you in the US would call Community Colleges) also call themselves universities. You should have no more difficulty there then anyone else studying on a foreign country. DJ Clayworth 22:07, 18 January 2006 (UTC)
Thanks, or cheers (I hope I got it right). Now if only I could learn to mind the gap. :) Pacific Coast Highway|Spam me! 15:51, June 10, 2008 (UTC)
Don't forget Oxford University! Cernen Xanthine Katrena 23:14, 18 January 2006 (UTC)
Oxford is in London? --BluePlatypus 16:43, 19 January 2006 (UTC)
No it's not!!! Bloody Yanks... *grin*
And as for "can I pull it off as a westener", I presume you mean you're from the West Coast of the US, in which case I doubt you'll have many problems, as they speak more or less the same language in London as you do. Depending on your social attitudes, you may find London much more hectic than the US West Coast, but that's obviously a gross overgeneralisation, especially as London is more of the most cosmopolitan cities in the world. Note that you'll have to go through the UCAS university admissions system, which is how places at UK universities are allocated, and you'll need to submit your application about nine months before your intended starting date (so, for instance, by December 2006 for a September 2007 start). Degrees in the UK work slightly differently than in the US, you tend to read only one subject (as opposed to taking "major" and "minor" classes), but I doubt the differences are anything you can't handle. Do some reading up on how the admissions process works, decide on what subject(s) you're interested in, and go for it. Best of luck! — QuantumEleven | (talk) 17:12, 19 January 2006 (UTC)
Psssssshhhh...I could have told you it's in Oxfordshire but I wanted to see who'd ask if it was in London first. (Also, I wasn't entirely paying attention to the question.) Cernen Xanthine Katrena 19:19, 20 January 2006 (UTC)
And don't forget to Look Left before crossing streets. User:Zoe|(talk) 03:01, 19 January 2006 (UTC)
Cernen has a very good point that the best universities in Britain are not necessarily in London. Oxford University and Cambridge University should be checked out, and while they are not in London they are less than an hour train ride away. DJ Clayworth 18:47, 19 January 2006 (UTC)
Okay, look to your left, stay to the right on the escalator, mind the gap, and I should wear knickers all the time. Thanks. Oh yeah, and BTW, when I said "westerner", I meant a general United States citizen. I'm from New York City. Pacific Coast Highway|Spam me! 15:51, June 10, 2008 (UTC)
Stay to the left on escalators, people in a rush walk down the right, at least on the London underground. You don't need to wear knickers all the time, just don't climb ladders when you don't. Best of luck studying in the UK, you shouldn't necessarily fix on London though, there's pleanty of good uni's all over the UK, I recommend Scotland. AllanHainey 13:45, 20 January 2006 (UTC)
Also, Uni's don't have the same fraternity societies that US ones do. But it doesn't stop the students getting any less drunk. smurrayinchester(User), (Talk) 16:35, 20 January 2006 (UTC)


Yeah, Scottish unis are good too, Pacific Coast Highway. Perhaps the University of Glasgow or University of St Andrews (where Prince William attended). KILO-LIMA 19:08, 23 January 2006 (UTC)

[edit] Sefadu Diamond History

I'm trying to research the discovery (specifically who) of the sefadu Duamond in 1970 Sierra Leone. Additionally, any information regarding a transaction between the "finder" and how the diamopnd came to the Lazare Kaplan Co. Thank you for any information or web site help you might send. Steve

(question reformatted by the most wise[acre?] Cernen Xanthine Katrena at 23:16, 18 January 2006 (UTC))

[edit] .avi files

How do i get .avi files to play on Windows Media Player? It says i need a certain codec, but where do I get it?

DivX -- that's more likely than not what you're looking for. Cernen Xanthine Katrena 23:02, 18 January 2006 (UTC)
AVI is a container format that can contain audio and video of many different codecs. Having a ".avi" extension tells you virtually nothing about the contents. Might I suggest ffdshow? —Keenan Pepper 23:03, 18 January 2006 (UTC)
Try here.Pacific Coast Highway|Spam me! 15:51, June 10, 2008 (UTC)
ffdshow is what I use. The DivX codec is included, but if that's not the one you need it includes several other codecs. --Optichan 16:00, 19 January 2006 (UTC)
thanks
I can play .avi files on WMP. This might seems a bit obvious, but does that mean I already have the code? KILO-LIMA 19:03, 23 January 2006 (UTC)
Some .avi files require certain codecs, while others don't. Just because one .avi file will play, that doesn't necessarily mean that all will. --Optichan 15:07, 24 January 2006 (UTC)

[edit] United Nation photgraph usage status

What is the rule for using UN photos on Wikipedia? According to http://www.un.org/av/photo/contactus.htm photos "can be reproduced for editorial purposes only", but further down it says "There is a charge of US$ 50.00 for each UN photo used in publications." Are we able to fair-use around this fee? Also, I started to make a UN-photo template on my user page [here]. Please help modify this template since I don't really know what I'm doing. CrypticBacon 00:26, 19 January 2006 (UTC)

You mean something along the lines of Template:UNPhotoArchive? GeeJo (t) (c) • 00:35, 19 January 2006 (UTC)
I'm inclined to believe that since Wikipedia is a global project, the UN wouldn't be too pissed if we used their photographs, but I'll try and get in touch with them to find out. (I applaud good questions like these at the reference desk. Idiots do not win such approval!) Cernen Xanthine Katrena 07:41, 19 January 2006 (UTC)
If you like questions like these you should try the Help desk, which is where this question should have been asked (not that I really mind).--Commander Keane 13:24, 19 January 2006 (UTC)
*anime fall* I feel like an idiot now...should have read the question better. *hits the CrypticBacon with a newspaper* Naughty Wikipedian! Naughty! We do this in the Help Desk! (Or so I am told. ^_^) Cernen Xanthine Katrena 13:52, 19 January 2006 (UTC)

[edit] January 19

[edit] Stats question (header added)

Can someone tell me what firearm per capita rate is for the US, handgun per capita, and car(personal vehicle, including truck, SUV etc) per capita? Cite sources please. I looked over the US government websites, but couldn't find it. Thanks! MSTCrow 01:37, 19 January 2006 (UTC)

[edit] Star Wars

What is the generally accepted reason for the fact that no civilization in the Star Wars universe has discovered nuclear power, nuclear weapons, or any form of nuclear technology?

--24.29.92.197 01:45, 19 January 2006 (UTC)

Given that civilisations in that universe are capable of FTL travel, blowing up planets, and producing batteries with the capacitance of a power cell the size of the Moon, I'd say they've discovered nuclear technology and moved on. GeeJo (t) (c) • 02:08, 19 January 2006 (UTC)
I Concur. TomStar81 03:17, 19 January 2006 (UTC)
I disagree. Despite their apparent high levels of technology, there isn't really anything on show that replaces nuclear technologies. Ships, for example, tend to engage at extraordinarily close ranges, and still MISS! - a nuclear missile armed space shuttle would stand a good chance against an Imperial Destroyer. It is more likely that the Star Wars universe simply uses different laws of physics, which prohibit nuclear weapons, whilst somehow allowing sound to travel in a vacuum.--Fangz 04:08, 19 January 2006 (UTC)

Perhaps Lucas doesn't believe in Nukes, and how would have anyone reacted to the use of nukes in the 1970's

I'm not familiar with the SW universe, but is it possible that all the technologically advanced races discovered an easy way to generate a field that suppresses fission and fusion reactions? If such a device became routine defensive armament, then no one would bother carrying nukes as an offensive weapon, because they'd so often be useless. JamesMLane 06:25, 19 January 2006 (UTC)
"Because it's fiction" is not a good enough reason? --Nelson Ricardo 07:10, 19 January 2006 (UTC)
Excellent point. It's one thing to debate these discrepancies in hard science fiction but another entirely to expect to find rational explanations for space opera. — Lomn Talk 13:46, 19 January 2006 (UTC)
It could be that Star Wars races never went in that direction; in War of the Worlds, the aliens never discovered the wheel, and they seemed to do alright (although I question how the striders work without any wheels of any kind, but that's off topic). smurrayinchester(User), (Talk) 15:01, 19 January 2006 (UTC)

You just have to suspend disbelief and accept the Star Wars universe as is. The same is true in just about all science fiction. Since the trend in combat has been for combatants to be farther and farther away (at least in all out war, if not in low level conflicts), I would expect this trend to continue. An all out war today would be fought with nuclear weapons on ICBMs launched from around the world. In the future, perhaps combatants will be in adjacent solar systems, each hiding behind their respective stars to prevent their immediate destruction via particle weapons. They could launch periodic weapons ships from behind the star to detect and destroy any enemy ship not hidden behind that system's star. Also, alien races always have nearly identical military capabilities whenever they meet in science fiction. In reality, there would likely be millions of years of development difference between them. Why don't science fiction wars reflect any of this ? Because it would be boring to watch, of course. StuRat 23:19, 19 January 2006 (UTC)

Don't know if anyone will ever read this, but in addition to the above, note that a civilization would have to have either uranium or plutonium in significant amounts to even think of nuclear weapons and technologies. Both of these elements are rare (elements 90 and 92 on the periodic table). Captain Jackson 18:47, 22 January 2006 (UTC)

Good point. I suppose we could just assume those elements don't exist in usable quantities in the Star Wars universe. That might be easier than changing the rules of physics to make nuclear weapons impossible. StuRat 00:13, 26 January 2006 (UTC)

[edit] The American Flag

What does the stripes on the american flag represent? —Preceding unsigned comment added by 68.210.201.238 (talk • contribs)

The original 13 states. User:Zoe|(talk) 03:03, 19 January 2006 (UTC)
Please read the Flag of the United States article to learn other things that might interest you. hydnjo talk 03:34, 19 January 2006 (UTC)

[edit] Abstract topic of discussion

GREEN IS BETTER THAN RED

Uh... Vegetarianism? Or perhaps it's an ellipse: GREEN IS BETTER (perceived by the human eye) THAN RED. Regardless, red sucks. ☢ Ҡieff⌇↯ 04:13, 19 January 2006 (UTC)
Uhh... homework. "Write an essay on an abstract topic of discussion. Choose one of the following..." --Anonymous, 5:00 UTC, January 19.
Yeah..think traffic signals! deeptrivia (talk) 05:08, 19 January 2006 (UTC)
This user likes traffic lights. A lot.

Take a picture folks; I don't use these too often unless I'm handing out awards... Cernen Xanthine Katrena 07:38, 19 January 2006 (UTC)

The recent election has shown that green is not in fact better than red. --Optichan 15:24, 24 January 2006 (UTC)

[edit] Headline text

I am moving to Roanoke, VA. Is the bicycling good there? Are there bicycling trails?

I am disabled, and do not have a car, so I will be walking and bicycling mostly.

Thanks for your help.

Try Blue Ridge Bicycle Club and East Coast Cycling Links. CambridgeBayWeather (Talk) 12:39, 19 January 2006 (UTC)

[edit] Unilever

I know this is a bit silly, but to me, the logo for Unilever most frequently used on small products (about .5 mm across) looks quite a bit like a dental diagram (due to low resolution printing capabilities on product labels). Has anybody else noticed this? -Tim Rhymeless (Er...let's shimmy) 10:47, 19 January 2006 (UTC)

If they're only 0.5mm across I suspect nobody else has noticed this. What products did you have in mind? --Shantavira 15:54, 19 January 2006 (UTC)
You don't mean 5mm do you? .5 mm is about the size of this dot: . .smurrayinchester(User), (Talk) 16:16, 19 January 2006 (UTC)
I did. Wasn't paying attention. -Tim Rhymeless (Er...let's shimmy) 20:53, 19 January 2006 (UTC)

[edit] Sanrio MMORPG

Sanrio has been talking about putting out their MMORPG for ages now; can anybody help me figure out whether it's a dead project and/or when it's going to be released? -Tim Rhymeless (Er...let's shimmy) 11:00, 19 January 2006 (UTC)

Sanrio is making an MMORPG? Since when did Hello Kitty earn that right? Cernen Xanthine Katrena 13:54, 19 January 2006 (UTC)
Looking forward to a Hello Kitty MMORPG? Well, unfortunately I've heard nothing about Sanrio making a MMORPG. --Optichan 16:26, 19 January 2006 (UTC)
Here's the project page. I've saw beta registration back in 2004, but haven't really heard anything further. -Tim Rhymeless (Er...let's shimmy) 21:09, 19 January 2006 (UTC)
Anybody? -Tim Rhymeless (Er...let's shimmy) 03:33, 21 January 2006 (UTC)

[edit] Cocks

Figured the title of this one would get some attention. I'm editing Wikipedia right now, and according to my clocks (I have more than 3 in my room, not including my two watches and iPod), the current time averages out to about...oh...0609hrs pacific standard time. The damn rooster next door has been crowing for three solid hours straight and it's really pissing me off. Why does a rooster feel the need to do this at the damn crack of dawn when dawn is easily several hours off? I've checked the Rooster article and there is no indication of why, aside from a predator warning call. Any ideas? Cernen Xanthine Katrena 14:04, 19 January 2006 (UTC)

See this. David Feldman has been researching this stuff for years. So hard not to make jokes.... Aghhh! CambridgeBayWeather (Talk) 14:13, 19 January 2006 (UTC)
On a related note, how easy is it to toilet-train a rooster?
CBW - lemme help you. Perhaps I should inform the neigbor that her rooster is being a WP:DICK? Cernen Xanthine Katrena 21:20, 19 January 2006 (UTC)
As always, CambridgeBayWeather, you assist me in ways you cannot possibly imagine. And now, a question for the legal experts: what can I do to get him to stop? (Killing the cock is not an answer.) Cernen Xanthine Katrena 06:40, 20 January 2006 (UTC)
Hmmm, so you don't want me to tell you to choke the chicken. Have you tried discussing this with the cocks owners? CambridgeBayWeather (Talk) 07:02, 20 January 2006 (UTC)
Everyone is always 'me, me, me'. Rather than killing the bird, or having a (potentially ugly) discussion with the owner, consider the rooster's rights. If the bird wants to crow, he should be able to. Respect the cock, and get some earplugs. ;) Proto t c 11:04, 20 January 2006 (UTC)

BJAODN'ed!

I'd like to thank the Academy...naah, just kidding. Thank you for your assistance, all of you; though the rooster still won't shut the hell up, at least now I know that I shouldn't shoot him for being himself. Cernen Xanthine Katrena 09:40, 22 January 2006 (UTC)

[edit] Attention span

How can I increase my attention span at work so I'm not checking email every 5 minutes and ping ponging between projects inefficiently?

If we knew that we wouldn't spend our days checking every five minutes if there's a new question on the reference desk we can answer. David Sneek 18:38, 19 January 2006 (UTC)
There are some ideas in the time management article. One popular approach is described in the book Getting Things Done. If you find the answer, please let me know! --Heron 18:47, 19 January 2006 (UTC)
At home I find it's best to take the hard drives out of the computer and hide them. CambridgeBayWeather (Talk) 00:20, 20 January 2006 (UTC)
Drugs. Namely, Methamphetamine, Methylphenidate, Amphetamine, and sometimes Caffeine help. Also, perhaps it might be worth getting a psych eval to find out if you have Attention Deficit Disorder or Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder; both of these exist in juveniles and adults. Amphetamines and other Central Nervous System stimulants all increase focus in people with ADHD for some unknown reason. The drugs seem to have reverse effects on people with those disorders; stimulants actually calm them down. I am not a doctor, and will not give you medical advice, so don't go out to your local meth lab and find some guy to see you crystal meth, but it may be worth looking into the AD(H)D thing. Cernen Xanthine Katrena 00:39, 20 January 2006 (UTC)

As you can see, this is not the home of efficient people... --Zeizmic 01:57, 20 January 2006 (UTC)

Yes, we may be inefficient, but we have a very sexy encyclopedia that we can play with. ^_~ Cernen Xanthine Katrena 19:14, 20 January 2006 (UTC)

[edit] Dont Mess with Texas!

Where did the term originate? --TexasLonghorns2006 15:47, 19 January 2006 (UTC)

Presumably in Texas. --BluePlatypus 16:41, 19 January 2006 (UTC)
See Don't Mess with Texas. — BrianSmithson 16:58, 19 January 2006 (UTC)
The things we have articles on. :) DirkvdM 07:03, 20 January 2006 (UTC)
And people wonder why there are deletionists. If you think that's amazing, you should check out the List of The Price Is Right pricing games. Cernen Xanthine Katrena 19:10, 20 January 2006 (UTC)

[edit] Holy Cross track

Who's the fastest track member of College of Holy Cross? --TexasLonghorns2006 15:47, 19 January 2006 (UTC)

  • Holy Cross is the name of multiple schools and colleges. Most notably the primary school in Northern Ireland. If you want any sort of useful answer, it would help if you told us where it's located. - Mgm|(talk) 09:59, 20 January 2006 (UTC)

Worcester, Massachusetts! --FragileFrigateBird 15:19, 20 January 2006 (UTC)

[edit] Television Credits

Most television shows have opening credits at the beginning, usually accompanied by a theme song and pictures of the actors. Some shows have the name and picture of several actors, and then the very last credit shows both the name of the actor and the role he or she plays. What is up with that? Roman Soldier 16:06, 19 January 2006 (UTC)

Placement in the credits may be part of an actor's contract. Other than that, I'm not sure what you're asking. — Lomn Talk 16:35, 19 January 2006 (UTC)

Example:

The All-American Television Show

  • Actor 1's name
  • Actor 2's name
  • Actor 3's name
  • Actor 4's name
  • Actor 5's name
  • Actor 6's name
  • Actor 7's name
  • Actor 8's name as This Character

So why is Actor 8's character so important (ususually not the main character) that we need to know his or her role? Roman Soldier 16:46, 19 January 2006 (UTC)

Perhaps Actor 8 is being introduced, i.e. it's their first major work. Just a thought.
I imagine it ends up being one of two cases:
  1. It's a big-name actor who may lack the screen time of other actors but adds recognition to the series (Martin Sheen on The West Wing is an example of this; his character's name isn't used but he's broken off the regular cast name progression as a special case)
  2. It's a contractual sop to balance the ego/viewership of being the last name on the list. I would imagine lots of people go grab a snack when the credits hit, as they know a commercial break follows, so the last name in the list gets seen least. Making it stand out in any fashion might improve overall name recognition.
However, these are just guesses. I've got no idea as to specific references or actual rationales. — Lomn Talk 18:09, 19 January 2006 (UTC)
Star Trek: TNG used to do that with Whoopi Goldberg. They'd go so far as to remove her from even the main title credits, tacking her on to the end of the Guest Star listings (even though she was often listed as being in every episode when she didn't have any lines). Could also be that their character is the least important, and so they list it to remind them who it is. Cernen Xanthine Katrena 21:26, 19 January 2006 (UTC)
On Law and Order shows, the Assistant DA (who is an important character) is always shown this way in the credits.
O_o Not really; the only law and order shows that do that are Law and Order: Special Victims Unit and Law and Order: Criminal Intent. On Law and Order itself, it isn't done that way, probably because the ADAs are half of the show, whereas they are not featured nearly as much in the other two. Cernen Xanthine Katrena 19:07, 20 January 2006 (UTC)
This is interesting. Didn't CSI used to do that with Eric Szmada (before he became a field CSI)? And didn't they do this with Robert David Hall?
It's a good question. They do this with Rachel Griffiths on Six feet Under, too. I suspect it's partly an aesthetic thing - it leads the viewer into the show (okay, you've had the actors, but now remember they're characters!). It often seems to be a special features role, too - one of the main ones that you wold expect to be a bit further forward in the list. Grutness...wha? 05:50, 21 January 2006 (UTC)

[edit] PostSecret

Is there any way to read the older postsecret entries? The only ones available on the official website (postsecret.blogspot.com) are this week's, and the waybackmachine doesn't capture blogspot.

As a matter of fact, they have published a book. While this solution is ultimately not free, it does give you the opportunity to see the older postcards, as well as see a few that you haven't seen before. Cernen Xanthine Katrena 06:54, 20 January 2006 (UTC)

[edit] Dumb question

How do I get a password on the SNES version of Sparkster? I can see the password screen, but I don't know how to get the password so I keep having to start again. I got it from my cousin so I can't check the instructions. Vitriol 16:53, 19 January 2006 (UTC)

Have you tried [46]? Night Gyr 17:02, 19 January 2006 (UTC)

Yes, of course. Vitriol 17:05, 19 January 2006 (UTC)
Here are some: [47]. --jh51681 23:52, 19 January 2006 (UTC)
It's worth noting that the "Passwords" section on GameSpot is the same as the Cheat Codes and Secrets section on GameFAQs. Except I don't think you can submit stuff to GameFAQs from GameSpot. --Optichan 14:59, 20 January 2006 (UTC)
You can, as long as the code description isn't copied directly. One of the GameFAQs help pages says, "Do NOT copy codes or secrets from other online sites or offline sources. While the code or secret itself is not protected by copyright, the presentation of it is." (from [48]). --jh51681 00:14, 21 January 2006 (UTC)
No that's not what I meant. I meant submit it to GameFAQs directly from GameSpot without leaving the site. GameSpot's cheats, codes, walkthroughs, and whatnot are pulled directly from GameFAQs. They are owned by the same company. You can log into both sites with the same email address and password. What I was asking was whether or not you could make contributions to GameFAQs without leaving the GameSpot website. It appears that you can't, although you can post on the forums. --Optichan 16:17, 24 January 2006 (UTC)

[edit] Portable Piano

I recently saw a documentation about the pianist João Carlos Martins. In the documentation I see he uses a portable piano. I'm looking for a similar device too so I can practise if I'm not at home and in holidays. I've looked in the internet but all I can find are some rather unpractical keyboards ar very heavy stage pianos. What I am looking for should be portable, come with a protection case for transport, correct key dimensions and a good key action. Like the one I saw in the movie. If it also makes sound will probably not matter but would be nice to have (but only if it works with a rechargeable battery, because of transport). helohe (talk) 22:57, 19 January 2006 (UTC)

I once heavily research the digital portable pianos for my kids. The big money is all in the weighting and velocity response of the keys. Standard keyboards have a terrible response. I think it's something that you really have to try out. --Zeizmic 23:27, 19 January 2006 (UTC)
Can't exist, I'd say. A good action requires weight (you need the inertia). And 88 small weights make for one big weight. You can't knock too much off the number of keys. Halve them and what's left is hardly a piano anymore. On top of that you want a sturdy (yes?) case. That means either weight or a very high price. If you find the product that proves me wrong, I'd be very interrested to know. I also play the piano and travel. And encountering a piano while travelling is something rare. DirkvdM 07:19, 20 January 2006 (UTC)
It seems like the effect of weights can be mimicked in many ways, such as with springs and/or a compressible fluid. Another option might be to have some type of removable weights. Perhaps you could pour water into the piano, which would be delivered to the appropriate keys via channels, and then drained out after usage. StuRat 09:20, 20 January 2006 (UTC)
Neat solution, but a bit hard to do yourself. And you certainly wouldn't want water splashing around (it gets some heavy beating) in an electrical apparatus. Springs lack the effect of inertia of a weight; first, you get resistance, but then, once it's set in motion it continues while your finger moves elsewhere. The 'feel' is essentially different, facilitating fast playing. I never heard of the use of compressible fluids, but that would probably suffer the same problem. DirkvdM 07:56, 21 January 2006 (UTC)
I have found a quite good one: The Doepfer PK88 . But it is quite expensive Euro 749.00 . helohe (talk) 23:24, 21 January 2006 (UTC)
And pretty heavy at 20 kg. Almost as heavy as my Roland A90 at 27 kg (which is a beauty for piano players who want to go digital, by the way). I surely wouldn't want to travel with that on my back. It weighs more than the rest of my luggage put together. DirkvdM 10:23, 22 January 2006 (UTC)

[edit] Camino Del Rey / Kings Pathway Pictures

I'm searching for many good pictures of the pathway "Camino Del Rey" in spain. It would also be great if they could be put to Wikipedia:Commons if the author allows. I was not able to find much pictures in the internet. Also are there any similar paths like this? As it is quite spectacular.

Thanks. helohe (talk) 23:02, 19 January 2006 (UTC)

It might be worth reposting this question at Wikipedia:Requested pictures. I checked, but there's not spanish-language version of the page. You might get lucky though. GeeJo (t) (c) • 09:27, 20 January 2006 (UTC)

Apparently you're not the only one to be inspired by it. A pair of Australian visitors were so impressed they made a game based on it, called Chasm. The backstory for the game includes some pics:

http://www.abc.net.au/gameon/chasm/more.htm

http://www.abc.net.au/gameon/chasm/morephotos.htm

StuRat 09:35, 20 January 2006 (UTC)

[edit] January 20

[edit] Cabinda Wood

I know that this is wood from Cabinda, Angola, but what is the real name of the tree and what is it commonly used for?

Could be African Blackwood (used for musical insruments like clarinets) or Camwood (African sandalwood, used to make a red dye). Cabinda apparently is known for a variety of woods. -- Rick Block (talk) 04:01, 20 January 2006 (UTC)

[edit] 1906 Indian head penny

I have come across a 1906 Indian head penny that is silver on the heads side and copper on the one cent side. Please advise if you have any information. Thank You!~~!!~~

Take it to an appraiser. Cernen Xanthine Katrena 06:30, 20 January 2006 (UTC)
US pennies at that time were made of bronze. Probably someone electroplated one side of this one, or even painted it; something like that. I have no idea why. As to value, coin collectors like their coins as close to original condition as possible, so it probably has no premium value beyond the value of the metal itself. --Anonymous, 07:22 UTC, January 20.
Do you mean an Indian coin or a U.S.A. Coin with the head of a native american on it?
The general usage of 'Indian Head Penny' is the US coin featuring the Native American wearing a feather headdress thing on the obverse, and I think the words 'ONE CENT' on the reverse.
also the original question said "on the one cent side". India has never used cents. Grutness...wha? 04:02, 21 January 2006 (UTC)
I don't think they mean a coin from India, but rather a coin from the US. In 1906, US pennies had the face of a Native American (called an "Indian" in the US), on one side. StuRat 04:23, 21 January 2006 (UTC)
that's my point. If it's a one cent, it can't possibly be from India, so it is definitely a US 1906 one cent piece that's being talked about. Grutness...wha? 04:32, 21 January 2006 (UTC).

[edit] Golf ball markings

I have Nike golf balls marked with a very small "B41" twice, 180 degrees apart,,there is also a 4 character code marked on some of the balls,,Example "2220",,what do those 4 characters mean? Gary Day Rocklin California

[edit] Presidential Wiretapping

Why are people so concerned about wiretapping. If you have nothing to hide, you shouldn't worry about it.

  • See secret police. And think very deeply about whether you truly have "nothing to hide". Ever said nasty things about your boss over the phone? Called your mistress on it? Neither of those things are illegal, but both would be very handy blackmail material. If you don't have "something to hide", either you've got tenure at Berkeley or you're lying. --Robert Merkel 06:03, 20 January 2006 (UTC)
  • Another aspect of wiretapping is that the info the President acquires can give him a level of power dangerous in a democracy. For example, if he knows the strategy of the opposing political party beforehand, he can almost guarantee winning every election. Then, if you add the ability to blackmail his political opponents based on what was learned, he can basically abolish democracy and rule as emperor. StuRat 06:23, 20 January 2006 (UTC)
Ah, but that works both ways, doesn't it? And when people start to find out all sorts of things about each other they'll get bored by yet another 'revelation' and stop caring. We'll simply get used to it and taboos will disappear. When it comes out that everyone breaks a certain taboo it's hardly a taboo anymore is it? This does require that everyone is 'watched' equally, and there is a potential problem there. But you get selective phone tapping and such only when it can only be done to a limited extent. So break the taboo on 'espionage' and the problem will go away because it's a problem that perpetuates itself. (I know this idea is controversial, but that only makes is more attractive to me :) ). DirkvdM 07:31, 20 January 2006 (UTC)
  • I don't see people ever getting bored with other's sexual antics. There will be plenty of variety, too. Some will be guilty of a simple foot fetish, while others will be adulterous, homosexual, into S&M, etc. Then there would be the illegal activities. If everyone who ever did drugs, went to a prostitute, had sex with an underage partner, etc. was imprisoned, the prisons would overflow. Perhaps in the long run this would force us to have more reasonable laws, but a short term crisis would still be the result. StuRat 09:04, 20 January 2006 (UTC)
Ah, but life is one long successio of short term crises isn't it? And about the long run, do guys drool over naked breasts in a society where women walk around bare-breasted all the time? DirkvdM 19:36, 21 January 2006 (UTC)
  • Perhaps you should read about J. Edgar Hoover. Did he ever use his authority for personal power? Did 'innocent' people have nothing to fear from him? How would you stop that from happening again? --BluePlatypus 11:42, 20 January 2006 (UTC)
  • Yes, but since J. Edgar Hoover was a transvestite, all you would need would be a pic of him in some fish-net stockings, and you would have nothing to fear blackmailwise. StuRat 11:55, 20 January 2006 (UTC)
  • If that had been the case, then he would never have acquired the power he did - the press, the Mafia etc knew about his quirks, but he kept that kind of thing ruthlessly supressed, and noone in the media dared reveal anything. Proto t c 14:12, 20 January 2006 (UTC)
Actually the article on Hoover cites Mafia sources saying there never were any such pictures. And it doesn't really sound that probable to me since it smacks of the incorrect stereotype that homosexuals are transvestites and vice-versa. --BluePlatypus 14:21, 20 January 2006 (UTC)
I only said tranvestite, not homosexual. But, in any case, there are some who are both, so he might have been one of those. StuRat 16:58, 20 January 2006 (UTC)
I didn't mean to imply that you said that either. What I meant was that there were reasons to suspect the man was a homosexual, but that there weren't any reasons to assume he was a transvestite other than by assuming he was gay, and that all gays are transvestites. --BluePlatypus 18:37, 22 January 2006 (UTC)
  • "If you have nothing to hide, you shouldn't worry about it." What a perfectly succint way of saying "Only criminals would ever need even a semblance of privacy". JIP | Talk 15:01, 20 January 2006 (UTC)
If you have nothing to hide, should you be upset by hidden video cameras in fitting-rooms at the clothing stores? Of course you should, because your nudity is something you have a reasonable right to expect control over. Likewise, you should reasonably expect to control the privacy of your personal communication unless probable cause to suspect you're up to something exists, and in that case an impartial third-party needs to authorize the spying. You might think that your naked body is much more private than your personal correspondence, but that's up to you. It should be up to me if I consider the privacy of my personal correspondence much more valuable than the mere view of my naked body. Telling people they have nothing to hide and therefore should not care is like telling an attractive woman that since she's so good-looking, she shouldn't care if anonymous observers are watching her undress without her knowledge or permission. -- Mitchell k dwyer 17:08, 20 January 2006 (UTC)

Despite Godwin's Law, may I ask you wether Jews had anything to hide before there country was invaded by Germany? -guety is talking english bad 02:01, 21 January 2006 (UTC)

Just to refresh my memory, which nation was that of the Jews when it was invaded by Germany? Would that be Germany by any chance? User:AlMac|(talk) 04:51, 21 January 2006 (UTC)
Judging by the number of Jews living there that might also have been the Netherlands. DirkvdM 07:58, 21 January 2006 (UTC)

Do you really have nothing to hide? Fancy posting your home address here? how about your credit card number? bank account details? Social security number? Sexual preferences? Medical records? Having things to hide doesn't necessarily mean you're some kind of evil commie-.. err..terrorist. It just means there are some pieces of information which you wish to control access to. Noodhoog 15:05, 22 January 2006 (UTC)

The point is what if everyone would (have to) do that? Then society would adapt itself to the new situation. For one, that stupid credit card system would disappear. :) By the way, indeed, now that the 'commies' are no longer perceived as a threat, they had to find another enemy, so thank God for '11-9-2001'. :) DirkvdM 08:10, 23 January 2006 (UTC)
  • The important thing about the wiretapping debate is not that the President/FBI was ordering wiretaps, but that he was doing it without a warrant, even though US law currently allows the executive to obtain a warrant up to 72 hours after wiretapping someone. Think about that. They wiretap the conversation, conclude that it's not useful to a criminal investigation, and keep the tape rather than destroying it! --Mareino 16:07, 23 January 2006 (UTC)

[edit] 2lp backed with 'wrong' side

Why is it that some double lp's (especially from the US I believe) have sides 1 and 4 on one lp and sides 2 and 3 on the other? 1/2 and 3/4 would be a logical prigression and 1/3 and 2/4 would make sense if one wanted to have a continuous play with two players. But 1/4 and 2/3? DirkvdM 08:15, 20 January 2006 (UTC)

A lot of those double LPs you're talking about are lengthy classical pieces split into four sides. If you stack the two records, you can play side 1, and when the needle arm swings back at the conclusion of the side, the second LP would drop to the turntable (side 2). It does make more sense to have 1/3 and 2/4, because then you could just flip the stack over and then listen to 3 and 4 in that order, but I think the primary concern was just to make sure 1 and 2 were on separate records, and 3 and 4 were also on separate records. --08:58, 20 January 2006 (UTC)
Uh, you haven't used a turntable with a stack player lately, right? 1/4 and 2/3 is exactly what you want if the idea is to flip over the stack of two LPs, and that is why it was done. On the other hand, if they assumed that nobody would be stacking their LPs, then they'd pair the sides as 1/2 and 3/4. --Anonymous, 23:00 UTC, January 20.
Oops. You're aboslutely right. It actually has been a long time since I did a classical show on college radio, and I wasn't envisioning the flip properly. Thanks. --Mitchell k dwyer 04:27, 22 January 2006 (UTC)
Unless the idea would be to play it all in one go, with two players, which would require 1/3 and 2/4. By the way, I've never used a stack player and don't really know how it works. The phonograph article doesn't mention it either, so maybe you could edit in your wisdom there. DirkvdM 08:02, 21 January 2006 (UTC)
It's a very finished-looking article that seems to have been well researched and is written in excessively posh language. I ain't touchin' it to add sumthin' just based on my recollections.
With the stack player my parents had, instead of a short center post to put the records on, there was one about 4 inches high, with a pair of little prongs sticking out (like thorns, angled upwards) about an inch down. There was also a holder arm, (shaped like a backward ? with the curved part relatively small), mounted on a second vertical post to one side of the record. In its normal position its curve was hooked around the center post without touching it, but it was free to be lifted upward on the post, and in its highest position you could pivot it around the post and swing it to one side, clear of the area above the actual turntable.
To load the player, you first lifted the holder arm and swung it to the side. Then you put one or more records on the center post and let them slide down as far as the prongs. Since they were suspended in the air by their centers, they would now tend to tilt, but now you would swing the holder arm back in and lower it onto them, letting it lie on the top of the top record in the stack.
When you pressed the start control (or when the end of a record was reached and the tone arm had returned automatically to its start position), the prongs would retract for a moment and allow one record to drop to the turntable. I think there was a second pair of prongs that protruded at a slightly higher level during this process to keep more than one record from dropping, or something like that. Once the record dropped, then the tone arm would move back in and start playing it. When the last record dropped, the holder arm would finish in a position below the prongs and this would trigger a sensor that kept the mechanism from trying to start another record. Then when the record finished and the tone arm returned to its start position, the turntable would just switch itself off instead.
If you used the stacker, you had to use it even to play a single record. You also had the option of not using it, if it wouldn't work with your record (I think it wouldn't work with 78 RPM records because they were too thick, although we never had any 78's) or if you were afraid of it getting scratched. In that case you would lift out the center post and insert a short one without the mechanism. I think if you then used the normal start control it would detect that no record was stacked and would stop instead, so you had to move the tone arm onto the record by hand.
--Anonymous, writing entirely from memory, 18:25 UTC, January 21, 2006.

[edit] Wicca

Hey there On the covers of the series 'Wicca' who plays Morgan Rowlands and the other people like Cal? Thanks Seeing as there are diff versions, here is an example of one:

http://www.girl.com.au/img/wicca_eclipse12.jpg

thanks!

Nice Wiccapedians! --DLL 21:07, 21 January 2006 (UTC)

[edit] Florida buses in the Netherlands

I recently saw an old Florida schoolbus drive in Maastricht (the Netherlands). You know, the ones that look like they'd tip over backwards if too many people would sit in the back (I bet lots of US schoolkids have tried this :) ). How does a bus like that end up across the ocean? I've also seen old English doubledeckers, but it's rather a shorter distance across the channel. When in the US, I thought about sending the car I had bought there home by ship, but that turned out way too expensive (can't remember the price now). So wouldn't this be very uneconomical? Or would people spend a lot of money to own an 'oddity' like this? Ironically, in Cuba I saw Dutch buses. It turns out the Netherlands donated 1500 buses to Cuba. Speak of inefficiency. Florida buses get sent to the Netherlands and Dutch buses get sent to Cuba, which is just a raft's hop away from Florida (ok, that's a sick joke :) ). DirkvdM 15:13, 20 January 2006 (UTC)

I don't have an answer for you, but I just wanted to add that an American schoolbus somehow ended up in Cameroon, too. It was used to transport paying customers from Yaoundé to Bertoua. It even had the retractable stop signs on the sides! Very odd indeed where these decommissioned buses end up. — BrianSmithson 15:32, 20 January 2006 (UTC)
There was an item on the news this week about a New York City man whose brand new Corvette had been stolen in {mumble} 1968 or so, and had never been recovered, until customs people just recently discovered it in a shipping container on its way to Sweden. Nobody has any idea where it's been all these years, it was apparently never registered or insured, or the VIN would have given away its stolen status (as the VIN was used to determine who it belonged to). User:Zoe|(talk) 17:23, 20 January 2006 (UTC)
It is quite common for buses to be imported, especially by third world countries, when their city of origin wants to upgrade their fleet and sell off their surplus. You can find old London buses in India, and old Hong Kong buses in London. --Shantavira 19:00, 20 January 2006 (UTC)
Hmm, does that make England a third world country by Hong Kong standards? :) DirkvdM 08:05, 21 January 2006 (UTC)

In 1988, I was hitch-hiking in Austria. I got a lift in an early-1970s vintage American road-boat station wagon with a "British Columbia Automobile Association" sticker on the bumper. The Goth drivers were playing loud Goth music, so I was not able to ask them how they came by the car. Ground Zero | t 20:16, 20 January 2006 (UTC)

I also saw a yellow American school bus in Prague, being used as a charter, I think. -- Mwalcoff 04:17, 22 January 2006 (UTC)

[edit] abc/xyz analysis

i need an information on the abc/xyz analysis (conected with paretto law) urgently as i am a student and having a project where this analysing method has to be implemented (logistics; retail business; analysing turnover on the individual articles in sales/warehousing;...). any information or suggestion is valuable e-mail: removed please contact or send information asap. thx

Here's a discussion that might be helpful to you, because they spell it the same way you do, here on Wikipedia however, it is spelled Pareto efficiency. User:AlMac|(talk) 04:55, 21 January 2006 (UTC)

[edit] America, as depicted on TV

How different is America from its depiction on TV series? I know that most TV shows depicting America are actually made there, but how it is glamourised/stereotyped/etc? A lot of shows seem to exaggerate the country they're set in (Kath and Kim, 'Allo 'Allo, All Aussie Adventures, etc).

Well, of course they make everything more interesting on TV. Violence especially is exaggerated and people don't all look like models in reality. Also, they tend to televise the rich far more than the poor or middle class. StuRat 16:38, 20 January 2006 (UTC)
A related point is that such professions as doctor and lawyer are overrepresented in television programming. JamesMLane 02:47, 21 January 2006 (UTC)
There are more people of color in the United States than on TV, and average people don't live in beachfront property or highrise penthouses. User:Zoe|(talk) 17:24, 20 January 2006 (UTC)
Perhaps more hispanics, orientals, native Americans, and Arabs. Blacks, on the other hand, may very well be over-represented with such current and recent shows (in syndication) as Eve, Girlfriends, Moesha, The Parkers, The Jamie Fox Show, The Steve Harvey Show, Martin, Living Single, My Wife and Kids, One on One, All of Us, Half & Half, Everybody Hates Chris, Love Inc., Cuts, Soul Train, The Fresh Prince of Belaire, etc.
However, as these shows are aimed at the domestic US black audience, few of them may be shown in other countries. StuRat 17:40, 20 January 2006 (UTC)
I was tormented by French-language Family Matters reruns in Cameroon, so don't bet on it. As for how Americans differ from the stereotypes, people in Cameroon often thought that Western women were easy due to the high sexual content of a lot of European and American TV and movies. They also wondered if Americans really all carry guns, which is, of course, not true. On another stereotype, many Cameroonians assume that all East Asians know karate. — BrianSmithson 18:10, 20 January 2006 (UTC)
If we go back to the 1970s and 1980s, we can also include Good Times, What's Happenin', What's Happenin' Now, Fat Albert, Gimme a Break (half black), The Jeffersons, Cosby, The Bill Cosby Show, A Different World, In Living Color, etc. StuRat 18:53, 25 January 2006 (UTC)
I'm up in Canada, but I've gone lots of times in the States, and know lots of people. Life for most people in any country is pretty humdrum, and nobody wants to see that on TV! You'd be better off reading some articles from the Economist, or use general statistics. --Zeizmic 18:12, 20 January 2006 (UTC)
  • In any country, it'll be fairly accurate for the marginal things which make for good TV. But it will never tell you the representative story of what average daily life for the average citizen is like. Because "everyone" already knows what that's like. It doesn't make good TV. It's taken for granted. So the closest you'll get to that is when they parody it. --BluePlatypus 19:04, 20 January 2006 (UTC)
Well, there's always reality television and talk shows. Some of those are more "reality" than others, though. If Oprah Winfrey does a show on some family whose daughter was abducted, it's likely the family will be pretty normal (if likely white, upper-middle class). If Jerry Springer does a show on a 70-year-old stripper who's dating a man with Down's syndrome, that's further from the norm. — BrianSmithson 19:46, 20 January 2006 (UTC)

Life everywhere is basically very similar, as far as I can tell. The avarage American, European, Israeli, Arab, orAsian all have very similar lives , and similar houses etc. There are often details on how things are arranged, and in some places trains are faster than planes (or vice versa), or people have more cars or less cars, more bikes or less. Homes can be single room appartments (New York) to wide stretching single floor homes with a swimming pool in the garden (melbourne, brisbane), to being set up on a mountainside with a view out to sea (parts of new zealand). If you watch films and movies, they depict all kinds of exciting things going on in what are ordinary humdrum, familiar environments.

It's rather more exciting to see godzilla or king kong trash that shopping center around the corner than it is to see them do their thing someplace you have never heard of. :-)

Things you can learn about cultures from movies are often things that go on in the background, or are incidental to the story. Like what people are eating or drinking, their manners during quiet parts of the movie, the layout of homes and buildings, what the roads look like, where people go to worship, or perhaps what they do to relax (though don't look at the main character, look at the extras. :-P)

Kim Bruning 20:07, 20 January 2006 (UTC)

I'm always amused at how, in US movies, there's always an available car space on the street right outside some major hotel, or corporate building, or court house (yeah, right..). The hero just drives right up and parks there, with no competition and no hassles. In the real world, parking outside the building would probably not be allowed at all. They'd have to look for a carpark, find one that wasn't full, drive around various levels for a while until they found a free bay, then walk to their destination. I know the movie hasn't got time to go through all that just for the sake of realism, but it's another example of how the truth of everyday life is not presented. See this sort of thing often enough, and the impression that gets ingrained is of relatively traffic-free and hassle-free American cities, when the truth is exactly the opposite. JackofOz 21:06, 20 January 2006 (UTC)
  • Actually, most American buildings have free parking. It's only in downtowns of big cities -- or around malls on busy shopping days -- where you might actually have to look for a parking space. No one would consider opening a store or restaurant in the U.S. outside of a major downtown unless it had adequate parking. Can't expect people to walk more than a few feet, you know. -- Mwalcoff 04:15, 22 January 2006 (UTC)
It's also interesting how a car chase and shooting spree always happens yet never seems to attract any police attention. StuRat 04:18, 21 January 2006 (UTC)
When there is a car chase, involving the police, they are often depicted as buffoons who don't know how to drive without crashing into lots of other cars and each other. Unrealistic there. Most any profession you are in, hollywood representation is more fantasy than reality.
Mmm-hmm. Apparantly in America every scientist is a polymath, and every linguist a savant polyglot. GeeJo (t) (c) • 13:09, 21 January 2006 (UTC)
Statistically, America is paved over with houses of worship. Unbelievers are a tiny fraction of the population, but if you believe the news media, religious people are some kind of fanatical fringe movement. User:AlMac|(talk) 05:00, 21 January 2006 (UTC)

American film and particularly television disproportionately depicts life in the coastal urban centres, particularly Los Angeles and New York, because that's where most of the TV studios are based and where the entertainment industries are run out of. LA and NY represent only a part of the United States - and amongst the wealthiest, most urbanised (or at least suburbanised), most multicultural, and most secular part. How often do you see TV dramas set in Salt Lake City, Atlanta, Georgia, Detroit, Michigan, and so on? Furthermore, American television and film usually centre around upper middle class people - America is a wealthy country, but not that wealthy! --Robert Merkel 05:19, 21 January 2006 (UTC)

Being from Detroit, I can name a few things set there. There's the Tim Allen sitcom Home Improvement, the Martin Lawrence sitcom Martin, the Beverly Hills Cop movies start in Detroit then move to Beverly Hills (they even used our former police chief, Gil Hill), the movie Eight Mile was set in Detoit, too, as Eight Mile Road is the northern boundary of Detroit. There are others, but those are the main ones that come to mind. Most are not filmed here, however, except for possibly a few shots near local landmarks. StuRat 18:45, 25 January 2006 (UTC)
If a movie is set in a minor American city, it's probably filmed in Toronto! --Zeizmic 14:28, 21 January 2006 (UTC)
Every American television show set in New York City shows all its characters living in apartments far larger than they could ever possibly afford in real life. --Aaron 02:21, 22 January 2006 (UTC)
I saw this on a rerun episode of Law and Order:Special Victims Unit last night. A woman who had been raped wasn't able to deal with the rape and had quit her job (as a waitress) and moved out of her apartment. The police tracked her down to try to ID a suspect in the rape, and she was now living in a huge, expensive-looking apartment that she apparently had no job to pay for. User:Zoe|(talk) 20:40, 22 January 2006 (UTC)
Yea, Friends was one of the worst this way. Their apartments were in a very expensive part of town and no out-of-work actor, waitress, masseuse, etc., could afford them, even with roommates. Toward the end of the show, when Monica was a head chef, Rachel was a fashion buyer, Chandler was a Data Procesing Manager, Joey was a successful actor, and Ross was a professor/archeologist/paleontologist, they might have been able to pay rent. Phoebe, on the other hand, never could make rent (unless she was rubbing parts of men she wasn't supposed to rub, for extra tips). StuRat 19:08, 25 January 2006 (UTC)

[edit] Judgment funds account

When US companies are fined by court action, where is the money put in the budget or organization such as Federal Reserve general fund. Thank you. Btfsplk 16:23, 20 January 2006 (UTC)

??? (no answer yesterday) Should be the budget. Do you imply that there could be money leaks between Bud and Fed ? --DLL 21:03, 21 January 2006 (UTC)

[edit] Miscellaneous

Hi,

Do you know which word describes a person who was born and died on the same day?

Many Thanks Helen:-)

This question should be posted under the Language section. But, how about ephemeral ? (I asssume you mean they died the actual day they were born, not on their birthday some years later.):
http://dictionary.reference.com/search?q=ephemeral&r=66
StuRat 17:43, 20 January 2006 (UTC)
I assume the poster was referring to people who are born and have died on the same day of the year. In that case, there's not a specific term in English, but we have a list of people who'd fall into that category at List of people who died on their birthdays. GeeJo (t) (c) •  17:46, 20 January 2006 (UTC)
Oh dear me, my tummy hurts. First there was the List of U.S. Presidents by height order and now this. To be complete, that list would include one in every 365 people who ever died. Even if you limit it to well known people it would be humongous. Who on Earth could be interrested in this? Or bother to compile such a list? JackofOz, what's up with this, mate? I suppose there's little else to do in the outback. :) DirkvdM 18:41, 20 January 2006 (UTC)
Ah, but it can't be one in 365 people who die, because there's both the day that they die on and the day they were born to consider. I read a similar thing once, with the statistics of a classful of little kids charting their birthadys (in Muse magazine, maybe you can find it). The problem is that once a day has been used, it's still available. Just because someone is born on a day doesn't mean that noone else can be born on that day.
Uh, wrong. That's the Birthday Paradox, which answers "How many people do you need for it to be more likely than not that two share a birthday?". That is not the same question as "What is the probability that someone shares my birthday?" which is essentially the same as "What is the probability of someone sharing his birthday with his date of death?", the question relevant here. --BluePlatypus 21:12, 20 January 2006 (UTC)
I agree with DirkvdM and BluePlatypus. One in 365 is the correct ratio, if we ignore the complication of leap years and if we assume that a person's chance of dying on a particular day is independent of that person's birthday. If people are more likely to have heart attacks after riotous birthday parties, then the proportion of birthday diers could be higher than one in 365. JamesMLane 02:37, 21 January 2006 (UTC)
Agreed, with a slight alteration to account for leap day. Those born on Feb 29 will be about 1/4 as likely to die on their birthday as others. Of course, the chances that any one person will have been born on any given non-leap day (say March 1) and also have died on that given day would be 365^2. StuRat 03:55, 21 January 2006 (UTC)
There are the still born as in babies who are born dead, but that is two words. User:AlMac|(talk) 05:03, 21 January 2006 (UTC)
Actually Stillborn is one word. GeeJo (t) (c) • 13:02, 21 January 2006 (UTC)

To DirkvdM particularly:

  • I guess you singled me out because I've made a few edits and improvements to the List of people who died on their birthdays. I certainly can't claim credit for starting it, though. Anonymous user 130.37.24.11 did that, back in September 2003. I didn't come upon it till quite late in the piece, in 2005.
  • Clearly a number of people are interested in this list. That in itself is a good reason to have it. I've maintained my own list of such names for years, which is why I was able to update it with such apparent ease. If you don't find much use for it, live and let live and go and find something that does interest you. Wikipedia has enough for everybody.
  • I agree with those who say the probability of a person dying on their birthday is not 1/365 but 1/365 squared. Or more accurately, it's 1/365.2425 squared or 1/133,402.08. (I'd be happy to justify that number separately, for those who are interested.) This explains why the list is as short as it is. Its size is completely predictable by the mathematics.
  • I disagree. There are 43 people in the list, with 3 others listed as "maybes". If this was 1/(365^2) of the total number of famous people, that would give us almost 6 million famous people. If we use the correct 1/365, we get almost 16 thousand famous people. When we consider that many famous people from antiquity had unknown birthdates (and a few had unknown death dates), we can probably only do this check on half the famous people. And, beyond that, many people are just missing from the list. So, that might make the 16 thousand famous people far more, when those factors are accounted for. StuRat 15:20, 21 January 2006 (UTC)
  • OK, let's settle this. We're not talking about all the people who have ever died. We're talking about a much smaller subset of people, but the principles should still apply. Can anybody come up with:
the number of biographies we have on Wikipedia
of them, the number of dead people
of them, the number of people whose exact birth and death dates are known.
  • Comparing that last statistic with the 43-odd on the list would be very informative. It should either be roughly in the order of magnitude of 1/365, or roughly in the order of magnitude of 1/365 squared. If it's significantly different from either, then there's something wrong somewhere. I would have thought we had a lot, lot more than 16,000 biographies of dead people whose exact dates are known. But I agree it's way short of 6 million. JackofOz 21:10, 21 January 2006 (UTC)
  • While nobody claims the list is complete, I would challenge anybody to come up with a very well-known name that's missing.
  • Australia is one of the most culturally diverse nations on earth. I'm sure there's plenty to do in the outback, otherwise why would people bother to live there. But I don't know much about it (maybe I should check out the Wikipedia article on it). I happen to live a thousand miles away, in Melbourne, a wonderful home to over 3 million people, and twice independently rated as "the world's most liveable city". All stereotypes suck, and the less said about their perpetuators, the better. JackofOz 05:53, 21 January 2006 (UTC)
Nah, the outback isn't as much as 1.609344 km from Melbourne. Hell, even Waga Waga is less than 500 km away, and that sounds outback enough to me. :)
Get it right, Dirk. (a) It's Wagga Wagga. (b) 1.6 km is a lot, lot shorter than 500 km, so your maths is crap today. You probably meant 1.6 thousand km. (c) What "sounds like" the outback to some guy in Amsterdam is not exactly the criterion Australians use. Maybe I'll start saying that the Netherlands has a windmill and a dyke on every street corner, and all Dutch people wear clogs. (d) I lived in Wagga for a while (the locals refer to it by one name), and I can assure you nobody there thinks it's in the outback. You'd need to go a lot further inland. I meant what I said when I said Melbourne was 1000 miles from the outback.  :) JackofOz 21:10, 21 January 2006 (UTC)
(a) Oops (b) Oops again (forgot to shift the decimal point) (c) Note the smiley :) I have been to the Land of Aus, though. Also, a dike in every street (not just the corner) is not too far from the truth in Amsterdam - most of the Netherlands (the dry bits) is diked in (because they're lower than the wet bits). (d) If, after going from Melbourne to Wagga, you continue in a straight line, you end up in Bundaberg, which is worse than the outback (I know, I've been there). But where is the Outback anyway? The article is pretty vague (with the excuse that the term itself is vague - fair enough). And my atlas doesn't give me the location of the black stump. For example, would you say there is any outback at all in NSW?
Greetings from the Nether-nether-lands. :) DirkvdM 11:01, 22 January 2006 (UTC)
(c) I did notice the smiley, but I was just having a bit of fun (did you notice my return smiley?) (d) I agree the article on the outback needs some work. But it's a bit like trying to define where is the "heartland of America", or "back of Bourke" - or indeed, the "black stump". There is no definite boundary. I would say that large parts of NSW are in the outback, but don't pin me down to any particular places. I really don't get what this straight line thing is about. I never said Melbourne was 1000 miles from the outback in a straight line that passes through Wagga, all I said is that it was 1000 miles from the outback. You first raised Wagga, not me. One final question - if you don't know where the outback begins and ends, then presumably you don't claim to have been there, so how do you know that Bundaberg is worse than the outback? What's your basis of comparison? And worse in what sense?  :) :) :) JackofOz 22:40, 22 January 2006 (UTC)
Quite simply nothing can be worse than Bundaberg. I might have said Los Angeles, but it seems LA has a nice bit along the coast. However, as in Bundy, I hightailed it out of there after just one night. Since Bundaberg feeds off destitute backpackers, sucking them dry with hard labour for a few pennies and I'm a backpacker, you can imagine I didn't quite like the place. I wasn't destitute, so I could escape, but the one night at the backpacker's was quite enough. When I told the guy at the desk it was the worst place I'd ever stayed, he said that I was the wort customer he'd ever had with such an uninterested face that it was obvious this was a standard answer and he was beyind caring. DirkvdM 08:35, 23 January 2006 (UTC)
Good story. I hope you've recovered. Cheers JackofOz 08:56, 24 January 2006 (UTC)
No-one said the chances of dying on your birthday were 365^2 (if we ignore leap years). Anon suggested as much but didn't say it. And StuRat said the chances of being born and dying on the same day are 365^2. However, in the phrase 'dying on your birthday', the birthday is already given. It's a matter of what info you already have. What are the chances that my brother was born on 1 March? To you that's 1/365. To me, however, it's 1, because I know my brother's birthday. And if you ask what the chances are that someone is born on their birthday, that birthday is already given (even when they're not born yet, because by saying 'birthday' you assume that to be given).
It's incredible how many people get this sort of wrong. And it cuts through national boundaries. But also through cultural boundaries? Are people bad at this by nature or is it a matter of upbringing? Are our educational systems so deficient? Do, say, Indians suffer from this too? Either way, something should be done about this. This specific example is pretty trivial, but people often make mistakes when it comes to making assessments of something. Which is probably at the heart of this. Details like leap years (in this example) matter to some extent, but assessing the magnitude of the outcome of a calculation is in real life waaay more important than getting it exactly right. Even in, say, rocket science. There, you need to get things exactly right, but you also need to have made an assessment first to detect a 'slight' error like getting the power of an equation wrong (which looks like a little number in the equation but can have dramatic consequences for the outcome). How can we improve our educational systems to avert this problem? This is really really important. I don't remember getting any education in this respect (I had to teach myself). Mathematics at school only deals with exact calculations, not the much more important issue of getting things roughly right in a quick assessment. Sorry about this rant, but, like I said, I consider this to be really important. How can democracy work properly if voters don't realise that, say, terrorism is a relative triviality in the grand scheme of things? (Then again, that is also a matter of geting fed the right basic data.) DirkvdM 08:59, 21 January 2006 (UTC)
This just in. In the Netherlands last year there was the issue that pabo students (future teachers) are bad at calculating. In today's NRC (science section) there is an article that says the government concluded that mathematics should be obligatory for pabo students. However, when experts were asked, they said mathematics and ordinary calculating are two completely different things and wondered if those politicains knew what they were talking about (considering the fact that about 90% of them have studied law and economics and such that is a very legit question). DirkvdM 12:49, 21 January 2006 (UTC)
Agreed. In the US, they now seem to be teaching estimating as a way to check the rough magnitude of your answer. For example, if prices increase by 10% each year relative to the previous year, for 3 years straight, you would expect the increase to be somewhere near 30%. It's actually (1.1)^3 or 1.331 or 33.1%, but 30% at least gives you the rough answer. StuRat 15:10, 21 January 2006 (UTC)
  • I can't determine from the above who said it, but it's certainly not 1/365^2. The probability someone died on their birthday is 1/365. The probability someone both was born and died on a given date is 1/365^2. Choose a date, choose a random person. The probability that person was born on that date is 1/365. Does everyone follow? Ok, now the probability that person also died on that date is 1/365, so the total probaility is 1/365^2. The probability someone died on their birthday is still 1/365, because the first step isn't there. The 'given date' is the person's birthday, so that probability is 1. If someone still doesn't believe this, it's the same thing as rolling a die. You have a 1/36 chance of rolling a given number (say, 4) twice in a row, but you have a 1/6 chance of rolling any number twice in a row, since only the second roll is important. --BluePlatypus 21:55, 21 January 2006 (UTC)

It's astonishing that such a trivially simple question has given rise to such an amount of discussion. Suffice to say that, ignoring the slight complication of leap years, the latest post from BluePlatypus is spot on - anyone who doesn't have enough maths to see this really should shy away from this kind of question altogether. There is plenty of non-mathematical stuff on Wikipedia to keep everyone happy. Maid Marion 16:35, 23 January 2006 (UTC)

Agreed. StuRat 18:37, 25 January 2006 (UTC)
A related point is that assumptions should be explicitly stated, to aid in the assessment of whether they're true. Here, the common implicit assumption is that a person's chance of being born on any particular day is 1/365, and that a person's chance of dying on any particular day is also 1/365 (ignoring the complication for leap years). I don't think either assumption is so obviously true as to merit being passed over in silence. Climate-related patterns of sexual activity, as well as social factors such as school graduations, might well affect birth rates for each day. I also suspect that people might be more likely to die on their birthdays. Some might have celebrations causing excitement causing heart attack. Some might have been in bad health but hanging on, psychologically, to be able to mark one more birthday, but then let go. On the other hand, I wouldn't be astounded if people are happier on their birthdays and therefore less likely to die. I do agree that, if you make these simplifying assumptions, it's elementary probability to say that the chance is 1/365. JamesMLane t c 12:02, 27 January 2006 (UTC)

[edit] Title of a piece by Beethoven

Greetings,

I would appreciate if someone could give me the title of a famous piece by Ludwig van Beethoven featured in the Civilization IV video game.

I thank whoever may be of assistance,

Grumpy Troll (talk) 18:10, 20 January 2006 (UTC).

Symphony 6 ('Pastoral symphony'), first movement - Awakening of Cheerful Feelings upon Arrival in the Country. Taiq 18:15, 20 January 2006 (UTC)
Thank you very much — I am new to classical music … Grumpy Troll (talk) 18:19, 20 January 2006 (UTC).
  • What software do I have to have to play an *.ogg file? alteripse 04:03, 21 January 2006 (UTC)
See the article Vorbis which lists software able to play Ogg Vorbis files. --Canley 05:00, 21 January 2006 (UTC)
Or even better, Wikipedia:Media help (Ogg). —Keenan Pepper 05:04, 21 January 2006 (UTC)
I recommend VLC Media Player, for a multiplatform lightweight option. Taiq
Winamp, Audion, XMMS. (For Microsoft Windows, Mac OS X, and X Windows for Linux, respectively.) Cernen Xanthine Katrena 19:03, 21 January 2006 (UTC)
  • Already upgraded to Foobar2006. Did you not ? Beethoven was so dumb that all his life he believed he was a painter. Cavanna. --DLL 20:54, 21 January 2006 (UTC)

[edit] Playboy

Is it legal in the United States for minors to read or "read" Playboy or similar material? (ie not harder porn). (read but not buy, like if a parent subscribes and you find it or something). What about going to the website or subscribing to the free e-mail newsletter? Hypothetical questions. Thanks in advance. Interrogus 20:01, 20 January 2006 (UTC)

I imagine it would be perfectly legal to just "read" it. Your parents might not be too pleased if they found out, though. --Optichan 20:12, 20 January 2006 (UTC)
I wasn't sure because I thought I had read that it is illegal for minors to see more explicit porn. Interrogus 20:24, 20 January 2006 (UTC)
I doubt it. However, it may be illegal to show minors porn. Since that could be regarded as sexual harassment, child abuse, etc. --BluePlatypus 21:07, 20 January 2006 (UTC)
For that last one, see disseminating pornography to a minor. Yeltensic42.618 don't panic 00:41, 21 January 2006 (UTC)
Read? Can you read a playboy? Well, I'll be damned, indeed, there is some writing in between the pics. Thanks for the tip! DirkvdM 09:03, 21 January 2006 (UTC)

Oh dear, you guys completely missed my Freudian slip.  :)

I see that Interrogus typed "read", rather than read. Yeltensic42.618 don't panic 17:22, 21 January 2006 (UTC)
Now is that really a hypothetical question? I think not. Yeltensic42.618 don't panic 17:23, 21 January 2006 (UTC)
Yes, read, DirkdvM. Last time I checked, Playboy had articles, containing words, which can be read. It also has pictures. JackofOz 20:34, 21 January 2006 (UTC)
Yeah, we already knew about the pics. It's the words that can be read that are a new discovery. I wonder how many people read the articles? Yeltensic42.618 don't panic 21:41, 21 January 2006 (UTC)
I've always just read Playbody for the articles. --Zeizmic 21:41, 21 January 2006 (UTC)
So you mean to say that when you stumble upon any of the pics while reading, you completely ignore it? Yeltensic42.618 don't panic 21:43, 21 January 2006 (UTC)
That seems to be your spin on Zeizmic's comment. But Zeizmic can speak for him/her-self. JackofOz 21:55, 21 January 2006 (UTC)
Oh dear, you guys completely missed my Freudian slip.  :) --Zeizmic 22:47, 21 January 2006 (UTC)
Oh yeah, there it is. How did I miss that? Yeltensic42.618 don't panic 02:16, 22 January 2006 (UTC)
The penny just dropped Zeizmic. Took me a while. The eye sees what it thinks is there. But what about the one above? You hadn't joined the discussion at that stage. Now I really am mystified. JackofOz 04:41, 22 January 2006 (UTC)
I think the first one refers to the lack of a capital "P" in DirkvdM's comment. Thus playboy as a person being read as opposed to Playboy as a magazine. CambridgeBayWeather (Talk) 06:17, 22 January 2006 (UTC)

Since I can't follow any of the above anymore let me point out the little bit of trivia that the Dutch word 'plee', which means 'toilet', is pronounced the same as 'play' in English, so 'playboy' sounds something like 'toiletguy'. DirkvdM 11:10, 22 January 2006 (UTC)

Dirk's comment didn't sound to me like he meant a "playboy" as in a person, but he can speak for himself. Yeltensic42.618 don't panic 21:21, 22 January 2006 (UTC)

[edit] Odd phone number, recorded message

My mum got one digit in my phone number wrong, and dialled 07846 141174 (this is in the UK, incidentally). She got through to a recorded message which repeats "This is the 3 Network in Hemel One." It's probably nothing whatsoever, or merely something to do with 3 (telecommunications) but it just seems rather odd and I'm the curious type. Any ideas? --Sum0 22:26, 20 January 2006 (UTC)

I'm guessing it'd be an unallocated 3 (telecommunications) number which they'd reserved for some area #1 they'd defined in Hemel Hempstead. --BluePlatypus 22:51, 20 January 2006 (UTC)

[edit] January 21

[edit] Help

I was unable to edit the Wikipedia help desk because of some Spam Filter notice. I am not allerting you of this. I tried to contact the meta wikimedia people but when i tried, it did the same thing. Please help. 5aret 00:25, 21 January 2006 (UTC)

Please include the full text of the error message here. StuRat 03:50, 21 January 2006 (UTC)
If the error message includes the text that the spam filter is objecting to, it can't be posted here. User:Zoe|(talk) 20:42, 22 January 2006 (UTC)

[edit] Wikipedia appearance

I edit both at home and work using the same browser and OS. Most of the time the appearance is identical, dark blue links that are underlined. However, at work sometimes pages will show the links as light blue and not underlined. It does not happen at home and seems to be a random effect. Any ideas? CambridgeBayWeather (Talk) 07:10, 21 January 2006 (UTC)

This happens to me as well, but at school. The only thing i can think of is making sure the setting is on when you log on at work.--Ali K 07:31, 21 January 2006 (UTC)
Which setting, because the browser and Wikipedia preferences are the same at both locations. CambridgeBayWeather (Talk) 08:07, 21 January 2006 (UTC)
My preferences are occasionally 'lost', even when I'm logged in. I solve this by logging out and then in again. But you say some links are light blue? Sounds like external links. Are the same links coloured differently depending on the machine you're working at? DirkvdM 09:10, 21 January 2006 (UTC)
It's the internal links that turn light blue and loose the underlined feature. I don't have to log out to get back the normal setting. It will eventually return to normal. CambridgeBayWeather (Talk) 10:01, 21 January 2006 (UTC)
Pages sometimes look weird for me too, though I can't put my finger on exactly what's wrong. I think that it may be because the stylesheet/skin has failed to load completely. Mark1 17:29, 21 January 2006 (UTC)

[edit] geography

what is the name of the 360km chain of small islands and reefs off the south east coast of america--195.93.21.69 11:11, 21 January 2006 (UTC)

The coast of North America or South America ? StuRat 11:26, 21 January 2006 (UTC)

"Barrier islands" alteripse 13:02, 21 January 2006 (UTC)

If it's the US, then the Florida Keys stretch about 360 km from Key Largo to Ft. Jefferson. Grutness...wha? 18:37, 21 January 2006 (UTC)
Nice to see that even people from the US get confused about the meaning of the term 'America'. Next time I have a discussion about the subject (again....) I'll use this thread as a reference. :) DirkvdM 19:48, 21 January 2006 (UTC)
to StuRat and all north or south i dont know the question does not say
Still homeworking ?

[edit] Rey Mysterio and Booker T? wrestlers only... that know about wrestling... ASAP

Why are they always on the card? --MaoJin 16:16, 21 January 2006 (UTC) ASAP --MaoJin 16:16, 21 January 2006 (UTC) huh--MaoJin 19:40, 21 January 2006 (UTC)

Because they're wrestlers that most Smackdown fans feel strongly about. -Tim Rhymeless (Er...let's shimmy) 23:17, 21 January 2006 (UTC)

[edit] Wikipedia logo

I read your article on the history of the Wikipedia logo. I did not see any information on the significance of the symbols, if any, on David Friedland's puzzle ball logo. I know what the Omega symbols means. But what about the other symbols? Amber

A small Omega looks like a 'w', but the cyrillic letter below the 'W' is a short 'I', so I'm stuck too. DirkvdM 19:55, 21 January 2006 (UTC)
I don't think there's any particular signficance. It's just letters from various scripts. The ones I recognize are Omega from Greek, "W" which you probably know already, the Cyrillic Short I (which DirkvdM apparently beat me to while I was submitting this :)), the Hebrew Resh and the Katakana "fi". I don't think it's supposed to spell anything out. --BluePlatypus 20:06, 21 January 2006 (UTC)
It's the symbols on the Wikinews logo you ought to be worried about [49] . That thing always creeps me out. --Aaron 02:29, 22 January 2006 (UTC)
The symbols? Do you mean the map? (Looks a bit like a face.) Neat map, by the way. Does it give the landsizes in correct proportions? Is Africa really as big as Asia? Geography of Asia says the latter is 50 million km², against Africa's 30 million km². But it doesn't define the area and that is a bit vague in the case of Asia. DirkvdM 11:25, 22 January 2006 (UTC)
Oh, my Philip's Atlas says the size of Asia is 44.500.000 km², but it doesn't say what constitutes Asia either. DirkvdM 13:06, 22 January 2006 (UTC)
Yeah, I meant the map. (I should have said "symbolism" instead of "symbols".) It looks like the logo that the United Nations would use if they ever acquired any actual power and nationalized all the news organizations in the world. In fact, it looks so similar to the UN logo that I'm surprised they haven't sent a cease-and-desist letter to the Wikimedia Foundation. --Aaron 22:12, 22 January 2006 (UTC)
Or we could join them a an NGO and make it legit (or doesn't it work that way?). By the way, in the case of the UN, that would be an internationalisation in stead of a nationalisation. DirkvdM 08:46, 23 January 2006 (UTC)
Actually, quick correction for BluePlatypus: the katakana is the little-used "Wi", suggesting that it is in fact an attempt to include the first character(s) of "Wikipedia" in a few languages. Confusing Manifestation 15:15, 26 January 2006 (UTC)

[edit] Zodiac

I was born in December, so I'm a Capricorn, but I was actually two months premature, so should I have a different sign?--Givnan 17:01, 21 January 2006 (UTC)

Yes, one on your forehead to warn other people that you care about this sort of thing. :) DirkvdM 19:57, 21 January 2006 (UTC)
Just ignore DirkvdM, he's being silly. Firstly, just being born in December doesn't make you a Capricorn. Capricorn starts when the Sun moves into that sign from Sagittarius, usually around 21-22 December. If you were born on either of those dates, you'd need to consult an ephemeris to find out the exact time the signs changed (it is almost never conveniently at midnight). Secondly, the natal chart is drawn as at the moment of birth. That you were born premature is irrelevant. You were born when you were born, not when the doctors thought you would be born. JackofOz 20:28, 21 January 2006 (UTC)
What about caesarians? Doesn't matter? What influence does being surrounded by flesh have? If a child is going to be born into an unlucky sign, could the mother keep the newborn in a box made of meat for a month to simulate a later birth? Or does it have to be a womb? If so, why? --BluePlatypus 00:35, 22 January 2006 (UTC)
See Ephemeris for more about ephemerides. (I love cool plurals!) —Keenan Pepper 20:47, 21 January 2006 (UTC)

BluePlatypus has a point there. I would have thought it would actually be the moment that you come into existence that determines what sign you are, and therefore the surrounding body would be irrelevant. As I was probably conceived sometime in May, I'd be something entirely different. --Givnan 06:16, 22 January 2006 (UTC)

Now you're all just making it up as you go along. A box made of meat??? How revolting. And suggesting that conception time replace birth time, a basis that has been used for thousands of years, just because you think it feels better or whatever, is an absurd way to proceed. Do your research, study the subject, then make comments. Uneducated comments can sometimes be quite amusing, but on this occasion ....? Nah. JackofOz 06:38, 22 January 2006 (UTC)
That's just ad hominem. How about actually providing an answer instead of being arrogant. Astrology is made up nonsense. The fact that it's old nonsense doesn't mean anything except that it's been discredited far longer. --BluePlatypus 14:29, 22 January 2006 (UTC)
And not only is it nonsense, it's dangerous nonsense. Do you think race should be a factor in job applications? No? Why not? Because science (that is, simple observation) tells us that skin color has absolutely nothing to do with your personality, competence and ability to do a job. Yet the theories of race holding that black people were inferior to whites is something that was held for centuries. And it would be just as wrong for an employer to reject an applicant because his birth-date suggests (via the discredited theories of Astrology) that the applicant would be unsuitable. If you believe astrology, do you think employers should use it when screening applicants? Do you feel the same way about using skin-color? And if you don't, for what reason apart from the fallacy of Appeal to tradition that is the only basis for both ideas? --BluePlatypus 15:00, 22 January 2006 (UTC)
I agree that astrology is utter nonsense, but that's still a POV that should ideally stay off the Reference Desk. Note that the original question was a technical question about astrology that could be answered using verifiable sources, without resorting to saying "it doesn't matter because it's nonsense anyway". —Keenan Pepper 17:33, 22 January 2006 (UTC)
No answer on astrology is complete without a warning that it is utter nonsense. That said, one's ascendant sign (and therefore presumably the sun sign as well) is nearly universally claimed by astrologers (today at least) to correctly be that which is on the horizon at the precise moment of a person's first breath. So yes, one could plan a caesarean section to select one's descendant's ascendant, and I suspect that some have so done. - Nunh-huh 21:31, 22 January 2006 (UTC)

Blue Platypus, I provided an answer to the original question based on my years of study of the subject (decades actually). You posed a question about caesarians, which I would have happily answered had you not gone off on a weird tangent about boxes made of meat. Then Givnan started talking about the way he/she thinks astrology should be practised, totally ignoring the long tradition of the way it actually is practised. That’s like a person who has never studied a word of Greek, suggesting that Greeks use the Latin alphabet to write their language, because they think it would work better. That’s why I made my comment about uneducated opinions. I’m sorry if you thought I was being arrogant – I was merely frustrated.

But now, you demand answers, while in the same breath taking the view that the whole subject is “made up nonsense”. Why would anybody bother to provide answers to an obviously closed mind? So you can perhaps understand my scepticism that you’re actually expecting a serious response. But what the hell, I’m game. I said in my original response: “You were born when you were born, not when the doctors thought you would be born”. That principle can be extended to caesareans: You were born when you were born, not when you might have been born had nature been allowed to take its course. As Nunh-huh says, it’s all based on when the child takes their first breath. The circumstances leading up to the birth don’t come into it.

After years of serious consideration, I am still open-minded about whether astrology is worthy of serious consideration. It’s funny how those who decry it as “utter nonsense”, “made up nonsense” or “dangerous nonsense” don’t appear to have ever given it any serious consideration at all. Without proper investigation, how would they know?

Your example about an employer rejecting an applicant purely on their birth date has nothing to do with astrology. If you want to discredit astrology, be my guest. But please do it on the basis of what astrologers claim for astrology, not on superstition or newspaper columns. Popular newspaper astrology has about as much connection with proper astrology as the Ku Klux Klan has to do with human rights. JackofOz 23:39, 22 January 2006 (UTC)

Since astrology never bothers to provide any mechanism whereby people get their personalities and fate from their birth date, it would be impossible to say how the birth date should be determined in unusual cases. I consider myself one of the many who considers all horoscopes to be total BS, BTW. StuRat 23:52, 22 January 2006 (UTC)
Here we go again. What is it about astrology that induces people to proudly proclaim their closed-mindedness about it, and yet still feel qualified to offer opinions about it? There is no such thing as an Ultimate Book of Holy Writ that tells you what science has to say on any particular subject. There are millions of sources of scientific information, and many of them say conflicting things. Ultimately it's down to what the individual believes to be the truth. Or, they go to an expert on the subject, a scientist. Same with astrology. There are millions of books on the subject - so please substantiate this claim that "astrology never bothers to provide any mechanism whereby ...". JackofOz 00:14, 23 January 2006 (UTC)
You have no understanding of the scientific method, which likely explains why you believe in astrology. Well established science (stuff that's been around for many years) doesn't come down to personal beleifs or trusting an expert, but to overwhelming proof. For example, the fact that the Earth orbits the Sun is not "a matter of opinion", but quite firmly established via numerous astronomical observations over centuries. A new scientific theory may very well have supporters and detractors, but will be either accepted or rejected after a few years of observation and experimentation to either prove or disprove the theory. Astrology, on the other hand, has been around for thousands of years and has yet to prove it's case. Where it makes vague generalities about personality, testing is impossible (by design), and where it predicts specifics, like date of death, it hasn't been shown to be any more accurate than a life insurance agent's mortality tables. After so long without proof, any theory in science would be tossed onto the trash heap, as should happen with astrology. StuRat 12:19, 24 January 2006 (UTC)
Also, if you claim that astrology does provide some mechanism whereby the position of the stars (which is really due to the orientation of the Earth) is supposed to effect people, based on their date of birth, let's see it. StuRat 12:25, 24 January 2006 (UTC)

That's all a bit full-on, StuRat.

  • I have no understanding of the scientific method, eh? Hmmm ... interesting how you could come to that conclusion from what I've said so far.
  • "Which likely explains why you believe in astrology" - Huh?? What I said was: "After years of serious consideration, I am still open-minded about whether astrology is worthy of serious consideration." If you think that amounts to a confession of belief in astrology, I have to seriously question your knowledge of the English language. But yes, I have studied it, for 30 years. I think a discipline that has been around for 5,000 years in many different cultures is worthy of some serious scholarly attention.
  • Now we come to the juicy bit. What on Earth (forgive the pun) is this stuff about "if you claim that astrology does provide some mechanism whereby the position of the stars (which is really due to the orientation of the Earth) is supposed to effect [sic] people, based on their date of birth"? Where did you get that from? No, really, where? Those are entirely your words, mate, not mine. I have made no claims for astrology whatsoever, so there is nothing that I have to prove.
  • The only person who has made a claim that requires proof is your good self, StuRat. You said that "astrology never bothers to provide any mechanism whereby people get their personalities and fate from their birth date". I asked you previously to justify that statement, and I'm still waiting.
  • What interests me is that people such as yourself tend to get very defensive about astrology. If it really is the hogwash you claim it is - and I'm not necessarily disputing that - why do you lose any energy bothering to even discuss it all? It's not as if science has anything to feel threatened about ... is it? What ever happened to the spirit of open-minded enquiry? Just damning a set of beliefs or claims out of hand, when you have never even scratched the surface of them, is hardly a scientific approach, is it? Cheers, mate JackofOz 13:48, 24 January 2006 (UTC)

I find it a fascinating concept worthy of scholarly attention that people actually give serious consideration to astrology. It deserves it about as much as my theory that the Earth is held up by a giant aardvark with Jon Stewart's head, driving through the heavens in a chariot pulled by gerbils. Yeltensic42.618 don't panic 17:09, 24 January 2006 (UTC)

BTW, no idea is valid just for having been around for 5,000 years. Racism, for instance, has been around for millennia in a great variety of cultures. Yeltensic42.618 don't panic 17:09, 24 January 2006 (UTC)

Yes, that's right. But who here has said that astrology is valid? Certainly not me. I have explained twice now that I am not making any such claims. But just being a practice that is illegal, immoral or possibly scientifically worthless does not mean it should not be studied. You mention racism. How much literature is there on racism - a huge amount. Criminologists spend their lives studying murder and other illegal practices. James Randi has made it his life's work to debunk paranormal etc claims - but despite his utter scepticism, you can bet he has studied ALL the serious literature on these subjects. Until it was finally proven that there is no such thing as perpetual motion, the impossibility of trisecting an angle, or the irrationality of π (pi), inventors and mathematicians spent their lives studying these things in an effort to get to the truth. Astrology is no less worthy of study - I did not say belief - than racism; ESP; murder; the 67 scientifically unexplained "miraculous" healings from the grotto at Lourdes; or why people who uphold the scientific method routinely consign astrology to the dustbin without ever having even tried to study it in depth in an effort to understand why it has been so pervasive in human society since Adam. Way back on 22 January, I said "Do your research, study the subject, then make comments." I stand by that. JackofOz 21:01, 24 January 2006 (UTC)
Studying astrology in the way you've described (the bit about literature on racism, murder and paranormal claims) is quite different from, as you have upheld, considering it a serious possibility. You can study a subject without that (eg criminologist who study murder generally don't consider committing it). Yeltensic42.618 don't panic 14:38, 25 January 2006 (UTC)
I think you're putting words into my mouth, Yeltensic. Seems to be the flavour of the month at the moment - yum, those words taste really great, you should try them - sorry, but people insist on telling me what I said while using words I never used. I have never said that I "consider it a serious possibility". I have said, over and over, "I am still open-minded about whether astrology is worthy of serious consideration". It sounds to me like you and others have decided up front that astrology must be bunkum and therefore it is bunkum, and therefore one would be wrong to spend any time at all in researching it, and therefore anyone who does bother to scratch beneath the surface is to be regarded with suspicion. Yes, criminologists study murder without ever getting tempted to practise it. And your analogy is ... ? Where have I ever advocated that people should practise astrology? Nowhere and never. I have studied it as a private interest, but this debate is probably the most I've ever written about it. And the debate is not even about astrology any more, it's about the psychology of science and the attitude of certain people who uphold the principle of open-minded objective enquiry (which is what the scientific method is all about), but seem to be selective about where they apply that principle. When it comes to some subjects, their attitudes are subjective their minds are closed. Why, I really don't know. Maybe they can speak for themselves. I've heard plenty of criticism of me for daring to suggest that astrology is something that might legitimately be studied, but absolutely nothing about why it shouldn't. JackofOz 00:01, 26 January 2006 (UTC)
Sorry, there must have been a misunderstanding. When you said, "worthy of serious consideration", I (and most likely the others on this thread) thought you meant serious consideration in the sense of "seriously considering that it might be true". Now I see what you meant, but you might want to consider your wording more. Yeltensic42.618 don't panic 00:19, 26 January 2006 (UTC)
Right, let me get this clear. It's possible to have an open-minded, objective study of something even though you've already dismissed the possibility that it could be true? Is that what you're saying? Of course I have entertained the possibility that it might be true. If I had already decided that was not the case, why on earth would I have spent any time studying it at all? I'm not an adherent of the Sir Humphrey Appleby school of investigation, where one never conducts an enquiry unless one is certain of the outcome beforehand. It's not my wording that needs changing. JackofOz 11:50, 26 January 2006 (UTC)

(I've reformated the following a bit for ease of comprehension. Hope nobody objects.)

Let me give my opinion as to why astrology isn't worthy of a major scientific study:

  • Since no mechanism is given for describing how birth date would affect personality or fate, this mechanism can't be studied. (Again, if you claim the mechanism is given, let's hear it.)
    • You talk here and earlier about the "birth date" being the determining factor of fate and personality. There’s a lot more to it than that. Using birth date alone is what numerology does, and what popular newspaper astrology does – which as I explained earlier on has nothing to do with true astrology (remember the KKK analogy?). Newspaper astrology only considers the position of the Sun, which in most cases you can get from the birth date alone. But on days when the Sun changes signs, this is likely to give an inaccurate result. The transition from one sign to the next almost never happens conveniently at midnight. A lot of people go through life believing they were born when the Sun was in, say, Cancer, when in fact they were born in Leo or Gemini. The same for all the other “Sun-signs”. This is somewhat fudged by the notion of “cusps” – opinions vary greatly about whether to pay these a lot of attention, or little, or none. But leaving all that aside, it’s absurd to suggest that 1/12 of the population of the Earth will all have the same “fate” (whether it’s today, or the coming week, or the coming year) just because they all share the same sign. That is what popular newspaper astrology would have us believe, and you’d be right to give it a wide berth. I have just as much scepticism of a lot of Chinese astrology, where everybody born in the same year has the same sign. Even more unbelievable. (But interesting that most people, scientists included, can readily tell you their Sun sign and probably their Chinese sign too, even if they claim they have no belief in astrology. Wonder why that is.)
    • A proper birth chart is drawn as at the moment of birth, and takes into account the birth location, and the exact positions of the Sun, the Moon, all the planets, and some other features such as the Moon’s node, at the moment of birth. It also takes into account the positions of the houses, which cycle through all 12 signs every day. And it takes into account the aspects (angular distance) between all these things, and pays particular attention to certain kinds of harmonics. This makes an individual’s birth chart (almost) unique. But hold on, what about 2 or more babies born on the same day, at the same time, in the same city? Happens all the time. Does this mean they will all have identical lives and personalities. Of course not. Which is why any astrologer worth their salt would never get into predicting “fate”. So much depends on environment and circumstance. So this in another misconception about astrology does. Astrology per se will give an insight into possibilities, and broad (usually very broad) personality types. This is based on the “as above, so below” metaphysical principle. But people are usually more interested in knowing something more specific and juicy than that, so professional astrologers tend to garnish their interpretations (often using complementary skills) in order to get repeat business. A lot of what most (not all) astrologers will tell you can be dismissed as pap to make you feel good since you’ve just handed over a wad of money. But that does not in itself invalidate everything about astrology.
    • As to specifics about the mechanisms of birth chart drawing and an introduction to interpretation, I can thoroughly recommend "The Round Art" by A T Mann, a really beautifully illustrated and presented book that gives a lot of historical background to astrology, and the information is presented in a way that I think would appeal to most Wikipedians. He also wrote "The Divine Plot: Astrology, Reincarnation, Cosmology and History". This is a tougher nut to crack, but still well worth reading if you’re serious about educating yourself about this arcane study, whether you believe anything about it or not.
  • There are many different versions of astrology, so which one to study would be a problem. In Chinese astrology, for example, the birth year is more important than the birth month and day.
    • That there are many different versions of astrology just means there are many different things that need studying. It’s not a reason to study none of them. Seekers of knowledge don't get to be picky like that, I’m afraid.
  • There are other unproven theories which should be tested, however. Here is one: "Trans-fatty acids cause acne. The mechanism is that these solid fats 'melt' at body temp, are digested with the aid of bile in the ileum and cesium portions of the small intestine, are absorbed by the intestinal wall, then pass into the blood stream, where they proceed to the sebaceous pores. Once excreted by the pores, these trans-fatty acids cool enough to re-harden, thus blocking the pores and causing pimples." Now, this theory may or not may be correct, but at least there is a mechanism described which could be studied. It is also quite specific, and not at all vague. A general and vague statement, similar to astrology, would be "food causes acne and we don't know how". Such a statement could not, and should not, be studied. StuRat 00:40, 26 January 2006 (UTC)
    • Don’t really know what to make of that. Who can say what “should not” be studied? Sounds a bit redolent of Nazi book-burning. I think I’ll just leave it. JackofOz 14:19, 26 January 2006 (UTC)


  • Basically, the problem with scientifically studying astrology is that it's more akin to religion to science. That doesn't mean it isn't worthy of study, but it does mean it can't be studied the way you would study an unproven scientific theory. Yeltensic42.618 don't panic 01:29, 26 January 2006 (UTC)
    • Spot on. Astrology uses scientific methods to determine planetary positions to draw a chart. But the interpretation of that chart is very much an art, not a science. Twenty different astrologers will give you twenty different interpretations of the same chart – there will be some overlaps, but they will each bring their own history to it as well. It simply can’t be treated like some mathematical formula where you feed in data on the left hand side and the answer comes out on the right hand side. It’s just not like that, and the trap a lot of scientists fall into is assuming it is like that and then damning it for not behaving the way they expect it to, ie. being able to come up with verifiable and reproducible results. (But that is also true of many other “scientific” things, such as medicine. How many different diagnoses can be made from the one set of presenting symptoms? In general, many. It comes down to the skill of the doctor, but it’s pot luck as to whether or not you find the right one. And true of psychologists, psychiatrists, and others.) Astrology is one subject where a truly open mind and no preconceptions whatsoever are absolutely essential if you really want to get inside it. And it would help greatly by not assuming it has to meet the standards that science imposes on it. It’s like ESP in that regard, I guess. If that makes it outside the realm of what science can deal with, I guess that science's loss. But individual scientists can choose to overcome that and do some reading in their spare time, can't they. I cannot explain it any better than this right now. You must do some of the work yourself, and read "The Round Art" or any other reputable and scholarly book on the subject. The WP article on astrology is full of useful information and links to get you started as well. JackofOz 14:19, 26 January 2006 (UTC)
      • No, it isn't science's loss. There's nothing stopping individual scientists from reading about it in their spare time, but it would be a mockery of science for them to dabble in astrology as they would with physcis, chemistry etc. No different than scientists trying to prove religious claims. But scientists (and pretty much anyone with a scientific, rather than religious, worldview) generally apply scientific standards to anything, because it is verifiable. You seem to disagree, but as far as we're concerned, for something to be worthy of serious consideration (as being true, that is, I'm not talking about just reading about it in your spare time), it has to "behave the way they expect it to". That's why religion and astrology get thrown out the window. Yeltensic42.618 don't panic 16:33, 26 January 2006 (UTC)
        • Well, where does that leave the thousands of scientists all over the world who have strong religious faith and are devout practising Christians, Jews, Buddhists, Muslims, Hindus or whatever? Are they all making a mockery of science by daring to "dabble" in religion? That suggestion would be grossly offensive to most of them, I would think. I know of scientists who see no conflict in being both a scientist and a person with religious beliefs, in things that science does not and probably never will have answers for. Clearly many others must have grappled with this issue, but they appear to have found an accommodation. Are you speaking for them? JackofOz 16:51, 26 January 2006 (UTC)
          • There's nothing stopping them from having religious beliefs, what I mean is that they just can't try to scientifially prove them. It isn't necessarily a mockery of science for them to have religious beliefs, it just would be for them to try to prove them. That said, I do think that many (or even most, if not all) religious beliefs can't be reconciled with science very well, but it shouldn't be too hard for them to avoid the problem, they would just have to ignore their beliefs temporarily. Yeltensic42.618 don't panic 20:18, 26 January 2006 (UTC)
          • BTW, one problem with religion is that it largely depends on gaps in science. This means that it can provide answers for questions that science hasn't answered, but science has a tendency to fill gaps over time, leaving religion in a difficult spot. This has already come up on a number of matters, such as the Earth being the center of the universe, etc. Whenever this happens, religion can only be defended by covering one's ears and chanting "La la la la I'm not listening." So it's probably only a matter of time before religion is left without any gaps to fill. Yeltensic42.618 don't panic 20:18, 26 January 2006 (UTC)
            • Well, I think we're getting quite distant from the original subject now, so I'm going to withdraw from this discussion after this. I'm not here to defend religion, just as I was never here to defend astrology. They both have much more eloquent spokespersons than I, and I have many other battles to fight.
            • I would just say in parting that you're on very, very thin ice philosophically in talking about what scientists "should" study. Your example about the Earth not being the centre of the Solar System (I think you meant that) is a case in point. Since it was considered a religious question, scientists should never have dabbled in it at all, according to you. Why weren't they making a mockery of science by setting out to prove or disprove this?
            • It's just not possible to make a black and white distinction between science and religion. Is there a scientist who has never asked: "What was there before the Big Bang? What made it happen in the first place? Where did all that energy and matter come from?" Hardly. BTW, I just don't believe those who claim to be able to comprehend concepts like, "It was always just there". My regard for the capacity of the human mind does not go that far. Will science ever answer these questions? Impossible to know, but in my opinion, no. Does that mean that science should become disinterested in these questions? Again, no.
            • In relation to things behaving the way they are expected, there have been many examples of natural phenomena that were completely unexpected. Remember the amazement of the scientific community when the rings of Saturn were found to be "braided"? No scientist had anticipated or predicted that. Does that mean the observation should have been ignored, or put down to an optical illusion? Of course not.
            • You might choose to "throw religion out the window", but one day you may regret taking that approach. God bless (oops). JackofOz 00:04, 27 January 2006 (UTC)

I could reply to your post, but I'll just leave this thread too, unless someone else adds anything to it. Yeltensic42.618 don't panic 00:24, 27 January 2006 (UTC)

[edit] need help locating a car cover

i am looking for a way to locate a original vw factory car cover that was used in the transportation of the 1945 and later vw bugs from factory to dealerships in germany.the cover can be seen in the history channels special vw bug, documentary on the creation and life of the little car. my question is how or who would i contact to find out where one of these covers might be obtained from germany? my contact info is vwbugg2275 at yahoo dot com (no spam). please respond cause i'm lost and need help , thanks

Dear anonymous, the best people to ask for specific car-related help are usually internet forums or clubs devoted to that model of car. Search for "vw beetle forum" on Google turned up this one, for instance. You might also try contacting VW themselves; they might be able to help, particularly if this is for some kind of event that would gain them favourable publicity. --Robert Merkel 10:24, 22 January 2006 (UTC)

[edit] ELC included?

Hello! I'm a german who wants to move to Tokyo for half a year, so I'm looking for a Guest House or apartment there. On every homepage I've been there are some remarks. I understand most of them; the only one I don't get ist "ELC included". What does that mean? Is it bad if it isn't included? As english isn't my first language I don't know most simple things, so thank you very much for your help!

Danijel

Edible love couch?
English Language Course ? --DLL 20:37, 21 January 2006 (UTC)
"Evangelical Lutheran Church", European Localization Center, Early Learning Centre, East London College (Tokyo branch), &c. But for sure, inc.

It's probably an abbreviation for electricity, in that the bill is included in the rent. GeeJo (t) (c) • 21:22, 21 January 2006 (UTC)

This seems to be a problem more with the English on the part of the Japanese (and Koreans. and Chinese. Etc.). They seem to have a fling for making very cryptic abbreviations when using latin alphabets. Not sure why though, but I suppose it has something to do with how their own writing systems work (where there are loads of characters to choose between!). I see it all the time in technical manuals from Omron, supposedly at least partly written by native Japanese people. TERdON 23:28, 21 January 2006 (UTC)

[edit] Quiz

I am completing a quiz with my 9 yr old son and we are stuck on a couple of questions they are :-

  • what country accounts for 35% of the worlds cities with more than on million inhabitants?
  • What unusual charecter name and part of a 1990's us well known sitcom means "the ultimate truth in all things " in Hindi

For the first one try Thirty most populous cities in the world. The external link leads to a list of 32. CambridgeBayWeather (Talk) 21:09, 21 January 2006 (UTC)

But that lists only a few dozen. My Philip's Atlas (from 1998) gives the following numbers of cities with more than one million inhabitants (for countries with 10 or more): US 38, China 34, India 22, Russia 13, Brazil 12, Japan 10. Out of a total of 284, so even the US has only about 15%. However, this also depends on how you define 'city'. This listing is for the total metropolitan area (such as 'greater Paris'). Even Amsterdam and Rooterdam ar listed, even though Amsterdam officially has only about 850.000. Also, over the last few years, most cities will have grown, and judging by the 'runners up', the top 3 will now probably be China, US, India, because for the US it drops straight to 665.000 (Jacksonville), whereas China and India have 8 over 800.000, and those may exceed a million by now.
For some more stats, as far as cities over 10 million are concerned, there are 15, of which 3 in China and 2 in India and the US each. And none in the UK. London once was the biggest, but now that is Tokyo-Yokohama, with a staggering 26 million! Next biggest at around 16 million are Sao Paulo, Shanghai, Bombay, Mexico City and New York City. After that numbers drop off quite fast. Most have 'just' 1 or 2 million. There are only 41 cities with more than 4 million inhabitants, with India and the US each having 6. What also strikes me is that there aren't too many African cities on the list. And Iran has 5 over 1 million, with Teheran having almost 7 million.
In short, the assumption in the question is wrong, unless they define 'city' differently. DirkvdM 13:49, 22 January 2006 (UTC)
Africa is quite sparsely populated, so I won't be too surprised with that. deeptrivia (talk) 04:47, 23 January 2006 (UTC)
I once heard that in Africa most people live in the capital (so just one city per country), in which case you'd expect at least one city with over 1 million inhabitants per country. Actually, there are 22 cities over 1 million in Africa, 5 of with in South Africa. So for 61 countries, that means about one in three countries have a 'million-city'. So it's not as bad as I suggested. But for most countries there is indeed just one city on the list. Which is probably why I overlooked them. DirkvdM 08:55, 23 January 2006 (UTC)
For the second one, Dharma should help. GeeJo (t) (c) • 21:15, 21 January 2006 (UTC)
I thought too that the quizmaster must have intended Dharma, though actually it doesn't remotely mean "the ultimate truth in all things." The answer to the first question is hidden here. deeptrivia (talk) 21:20, 21 January 2006 (UTC)
Pity that "Ken" isn't an unusual name, or that might be it... As for Dharma, I found a Buddhist website which stated In the face of the profusion of ideas and practices which were later developments, it is useful for us to return to the positive and timeless Dhamma taught by the Buddha. Whatever people believe and practise in the name of Buddhism the basic Teachings of the Buddha still exist in the original Buddhist texts. ([50]). Grutness...wha? 01:48, 22 January 2006 (UTC)
The word Dharma essentially remains untranslatable in the English language. Perhaps the "ultimate truth" definition is inspired by the following verse:
" Verily, that which is Dharma is truth.
Therefore they say of a man who speaks truth, 'He speaks the Dharma,'
or of a man who speaks the Dharma, 'He speaks the Truth.'
Verily, both these things are the same."
(Brh. Upanishad, 1.4.14)

deeptrivia (talk) 02:14, 22 January 2006 (UTC)

It's true that Dharma cannot be translated into English, but Ancient Chinese and Early Japanese texts use the word 法 (Chinese 'fa', Japanese 'hou'), meaning 'Law' (like we say the 'laws of physics', for example), but as this does really explain it properly, any Japanese texts now use the word 達磨 (daruma), which is closer to the original pronunciation. The characters actually mean something like 'infinite patience', and are an example of an 'ateji', or characters used to fit the pronunciation of another word. Usually the characters are also intended to convey a related meaning. --Givnan 06:31, 22 January 2006 (UTC)

By the way, the Web says there was a sitcom in the US in the 1990s called 'Dharma and Greg' --Givnan 08:38, 22 January 2006 (UTC)

Indeed, Dharma and Greg was the reason I mentioned the name :) GeeJo (t) (c) • 17:43, 22 January 2006 (UTC)

[edit] Intelligence agencies

How many intelligence agencies are in the world?

I'd say about the same as the number of nations. But it depends on what you mean by "intelligence agency", since there's domestic and foreign intelligence. Most countries have some form of domestic intelligence going on, even if it's only a small branch of the police force. If you mean "How many countries have foreign intelligence?", it depends on what you mean by "foreign intelligence". Some countries just sit passively around listening to whatever radio signals they can interpret, others are active with spies and informants in foreign countries. It's not really possible to say how many, since having operatives in foreign countries isn't something governments like to talk about publicly. --BluePlatypus 22:06, 21 January 2006 (UTC)
And of course there's military intelligence (the old oxymoron) as well. But there are certainly less nations with military intelligence than with civilian domestic intelligence. Also, there's any number of private firms like Jane's, and companies selling satellite imagery who are in the intelligence business even if they don't qualifiy as government agencies. --BluePlatypus 22:15, 21 January 2006 (UTC)
See List of intelligence agencies GeeJo (t) (c) • 22:11, 21 January 2006 (UTC)

[edit] last quiz question

up to 1992 how many expressways did china have?

Very few. Maybe a few 10s of kilometers. They made most of them in the last decade. (Sorry, I know this won't exactly help your quiz question. ) deeptrivia (talk) 01:10, 22 January 2006 (UTC)

Of course, that depends on how you define expressway (yes, it's me again). And what constitutes one expressway. Naturally, in China they're pretty long. At 2000 km, the Jingzhu Expressway might be longer than all the expressways in the Netherlands combined. Expressways of China doesn't seem to say how many there are. DirkvdM 14:01, 22 January 2006 (UTC)
Really? I thought the Netherlands was full of autosnelwegen. Dunno how many of them are expressways though. deeptrivia (talk) 15:42, 22 January 2006 (UTC)
Yeah, I suppose I exaggerated a bit. Not too much, though. The Neterlands is about 200 x 200 km if you'd compress it into a square. So 2000 km could then be a grid with about 30 km between the highways. In the central western region (Randstad) that would be a lot denser, but in the less populated regions it's less, so I suppose it's not too far off. DirkvdM 22:24, 22 January 2006 (UTC)
By the way, only now do I notice that the question stipulates 'before 1992'. Why is that? Is there also a question about the present situation to highlight the change? Sounds a bit like the quiz has a hidden political agenda. :) DirkvdM 22:27, 22 January 2006 (UTC)

[edit] January 22

[edit] Baked beans

In the WP article, it says some cans of baked beans "are as expensive as 2 pounds sterling" in the UK. Is this true? --Uthbrian (talk) 00:50, 22 January 2006 (UTC)

It sounds pretty dubious to me. The most expensive I've found online so far is £1.57/can (425g) for "Organic Nomato Baked Beans"[51], "Nomato" being a brand of tomato-free products for people who for whatever reason can't or don't eat tomatos.[52] The only way I can see them being £2/can is for "catering-size" cans - the first cash and carry price list I found online says £12.12 for 6x2.62kg cans, or £2.02/can, but the normal size of a can of beans is about 400g, not 2.62 kilos. -- AJR | Talk 01:33, 22 January 2006 (UTC)
oh if only they had those here! (one bite of tomato and I'm off to hospital) Grutness...wha? 01:52, 22 January 2006 (UTC)
Wow, those Nomato baked beans are expensive! I can't imagine being allergic to tomatoes, it's nearly in everything nowadays. --Uthbrian (talk) 02:41, 22 January 2006 (UTC)
tell me about it :( Grutness...wha? 09:49, 22 January 2006 (UTC)
How about making your own ? You can buy raw beans, cook them, then add brown sugar, that chunk of "pork" which is 95% fat, etc. StuRat 12:35, 22 January 2006 (UTC)
worth trying... thanks. I'll file that away with my "mock pizza" (base sauce made from cheese and worcestershire sauce). Grutness...wha? 22:39, 22 January 2006 (UTC)
Here's a recipe for a non-tomato sauce. And another for a non-tomato potato pizza. No idea if they're good, though. --Uthbrian (talk) 23:14, 22 January 2006 (UTC)
thanks for that too! Grutness...wha? 05:21, 23 January 2006 (UTC)
If you buy your beans at Harrods maybe you'd pay £2, frankly I doubt it. In most supermarkets you'll pay about 15p. AllanHainey 13:26, 23 January 2006 (UTC)
What about Harvey Nicks? KILO-LIMA 18:53, 23 January 2006 (UTC)
Heinz is about 46p. KILO-LIMA 18:53, 23 January 2006 (UTC)
Well that sounds great. A can of plain baked beans here is $2.45/£1.12 for a 498g/16oz can and a 1 liter/35 fl oz of milk is $3.99/£1.83 CambridgeBayWeather (Talk) 22:07, 23 January 2006 (UTC)

I'm just curious, but how much would two pounds sterling be in American dollars? KeeganB

As of 00:26, 29 January 2006 (UTC), about $3.54. Cernen Xanthine Katrena

[edit] NFL

Wanting to find out the stats on, what are the chances of a person making it into the NFL.

From http://people.howstuffworks.com/nfl-draft4.htm: 1,000,000 high school students play football, 1 out 17 of these go on to play in college, and 1 out of 50 college seniors (who play football) are drafted, which they claim adds up to 9 out of 10,000 high school seniors (I get closer to 12). Not all players selected in the draft end up playing - according to http://www.nfl.com/draft/story/6301644 11.5% of the players drafted in 2002 were cut by the team that drafted them. -- Rick Block (talk) 03:49, 22 January 2006 (UTC)

[edit] Tennis jargon

I've just been watching Marcos Baghdatis beat Andy Roddick at the Australian Open on a 41 degree day - top marks to both of them for not melting. Something I've always wondered about came up during the match. On 3 occasions, Baghdatis was at "match point". The second and third time, the commentators called this "two match points" and "three match points" respectively. They're supposed to be describing what's happening right now, not keeping a running tally of how many match points there have been over the course of the match. But if they must refer to that, why don't they call it "second match point" and "third match point"? Can anyone enlighten me? The tennis articles don't help. JackofOz 06:14, 22 January 2006 (UTC)

They might also be referring to the number of match points (chances to win the match by winning a single point) a particular player is guaranteed to have in a particular match situation. For instance, if a player is serving in men's singles at the Open, with the score in the current game at 40-0, 5-4 up in the current set, and, say, 2 sets to 0 ahead, if they win any of the next 3 points they will win the match; if their opponent wins all three the game score will be "deuce", at which point the server can no longer win the match with a single point and it is no longer "match point". So, therefore, player at 40-0 up and the game score as described has 3 match points. A player can theoretically hold up to 6 match points (if they lead 6-0 in a tiebreaker). --Robert Merkel 08:02, 22 January 2006 (UTC)
That makes a lot of sense, Robert. Thanks. Except I don't think that fits what I saw today, or previously. Maybe I should concentrate harder next time and work out what's really going on. That's if I can drag myself away from Wikipedia - easier said than done. JackofOz 08:15, 22 January 2006 (UTC)
I was watching the match, probably with the same commentators, and Robert Merkel has perfectly described the usage of "### match points" that the commentators were using.--Commander Keane 20:48, 22 January 2006 (UTC)

Robert is certainly correct. A player at 40 - 0 has three (consecutive) chances to clinch the set. Even if he misses the first chance, and the score moves to 40 - 15, he still has two (consecutive) chances, ie two set points/match points etc. Similarly, a player enjoying a lead of 40 - 0 during his opponent's service game is said to have 3 break points, ie 3 consecutive chances to break service. The phrase has nothing at all to do with how many such points have arisen over the course of the match. Maid Marion 16:25, 23 January 2006 (UTC)

Thanks folks. Seems I've had the wrong idea for a long time. Next time I watch a match I'll take particular note of what the commentators say. JackofOz 04:12, 24 January 2006 (UTC)
This is clearly a candidate for "the greatest furphy of all time". JackofOz 01:50, 28 January 2006 (UTC)

[edit] War of the Worlds movie questions

I was wondering, in the 2005 movie "War of the Worlds", what was the significance of the red weed? Also, near the end of the movie, Tom Cruise yells to a military officer "LOOK AT THE ***DAMN BIRDS!!" What was the significance of this? I think it was something that the alien/tripods couldn't see the birds, but so what? --172.140.78.82 08:34, 22 January 2006 (UTC)

Template:Spoiler

See red weed. About the "damn birds" part, Ray (Cruise's character) noticed the birds reached the machines, trespassing supposedly-on protective force fields. The fields were off because the machines got infected by Earth's microorganisms. ☢ Ҡieff⌇↯ 09:07, 22 January 2006 (UTC)
Now go back to see the film, that was the climax. You sigh, relax, and try and find some pop corn left : none. The birds ? --DLL 20:56, 23 January 2006 (UTC)


Better yet, why don't you reed the book and listen to the originoal radio broadcast to get an idea of where the movie writers and directors (etc.) were coming from. It may not be as dramatic, but it is still interesting. Dragoon235 04:19, 29 January 2006 (UTC)

[edit] Optimal kind of paint for epoxy

Anyone knows which is the best type of paint to use over epoxy (cured putty, in particular)? Apparently these accrilic and oil ones I've tried don't stick to it at all. :| ☢ Ҡieff⌇↯ 10:22, 22 January 2006 (UTC)

Not really an answer to your question, but the important thing with things like cured putty is that they need to be well primed. They still have a high oil content, which makes it difficult for paints to stick. It might even be worth going for a plaster-based paint (like artists' gesso), but there are almost certainly proprietary products that will do the job. Grutness...wha? 22:41, 22 January 2006 (UTC)
That was not really the issue, but I just tried accrilic spray paint and it seems to stick ot it very well. I'll give it a few white layers and then paint over this. Seemed to work well. ☢ Ҡieff⌇↯ 08:44, 23 January 2006 (UTC)
I'm assuming the epoxy cures to a hard, smooth surface (if not disregard this comment). To get paint to stick to any surface, it needs to be rough; try using some fine grit sandpaper (the higher the number, the finer the grit; use something higher than 100). I would also reccomend using a primer before painting (primers bond to materials that paint won't and create a surface for the paint to stick to). If you use a primer, remember to lighly sand before painting (lightly sand between every step). Dragoon235 04:26, 29 January 2006 (UTC)

[edit] What is the name of this "sport"

People dress up like clowns and fall down 10 meters in comical ways ending in a splash of water. Someone might even walk on stilts and act like he falls down accidentally. Usually a group of kids gives ratings for the jumps and the clown with the highest score is declared the winner. Lapinmies 11:57, 22 January 2006 (UTC)

Dunno, but it sounds awesome! Almost as good as extreme ironing and urban golf --Noodhoog 21:03, 22 January 2006 (UTC)
I know that Sweden and Finland have national teams in this sport. Lapinmies 21:18, 22 January 2006 (UTC)
A literal translation would be "clown dive" or "clown diving", and it seems to get a few Google hits too. So who's up for starting the article? —Ilmari Karonen (talk) 13:36, 25 January 2006 (UTC)

[edit] Advice

How can I deal with a hypocritical and immature mother that is determined to make my life a living hell? she is a dramma queen and she doesn't really care about what happens to other people, she just pretends and cryes over the phone when something happens (like when my dog died earlier today) but she never does so alone... and I wanted to burry my dog in our garden but she says that she's been told that burring a dog in a garden brings problems and arguments to the family I can't believe she's this superstitious, but I'm sure she isn't and she says that because she never loved my dog, in fact he was ill and she always said it was pretend so he could get our attention...I'm hating her so much right now. and that's nothing compared to what she does to me,she tricks my dad into hating me I don't know how, by playing the victim... but all she cares about is herself, she's obsessed with how she looks and I just feel she is just full of envy and ressentment towards happy people and even towards her daughters. is there any webpage I can get some advice in?

Every time I say that you won't get good advice on this here, somebody goes ahead and proves me wrong. My advice is to see 'The Perfect Man', and realize there are 2 sides to everything. --Zeizmic 14:59, 22 January 2006 (UTC)
Just talk to her (read: at her). Tell her how crazy she sounds, saying a dog was faking illness, and that she's putting a lot of stress on everyone. Ask her to just calm down and suggest psychotherapy (though many people will take this as an insult). You might want to record a conversation you had with her to illustrate how irritating and strange she can seem. Try not to hate her, though: establish motivation. Why is she acting this way? Emotional problems? Is she trying to avoid dealing with her feelings about the death of your dog? (k-Parry)

Judging from your writing I would say you are a kid. Kids are notorious for misinterpretting the actions and feelings of their parents as hostility toward them. You say she never cared about the dog. If this was true, she wouldn't be crying after it died. I suspect she cares about the rest of you, too, and you just can't see it. StuRat 22:00, 22 January 2006 (UTC)

That wouldn't explain her comments about the dog faking illness, or her dumb superstitions that ruin things for others. There really isn't room there for misinterpretation on the asker's part. Yeltensic42.618 don't panic 22:52, 22 January 2006 (UTC)
It's a combo of both. She misinterpretted her mother hating the dog but not her mother thinking it was faking or being superstitious. StuRat 00:04, 23 January 2006 (UTC)

You know, if your mother is acting that way then she probably (for some reason) was not ever entirely able to move past herself. It's understandable that you see yourself as a victim, and you're right, but it's quite possible that she's a victim too (of what? that's probably not the most important thing at this point) and is projecting this on others.

I'm not a psychoanalyst, and I don't know all about the situation, but I think it's usually a good policy to try to take a step back from these situations and find some room to have compassion for everyone involved. Good luck. -LambaJan 08:32, 28 January 2006 (UTC)

[edit] Tupac

TuPac is still alive. I know it. Pacific Coast Highway|Leave a message ($.25) 15:51, June 10, 2008 (UTC)

Sorry. Nope. I know it.
If only we could delete sections. A much better question would be "what the hell makes Tupac so damn popular, and why do people worship him?" He's just another murder-rapper to me. Somehow I have strange feeling that I already had this conversation somewhere else. Captain Jackson 18:52, 22 January 2006 (UTC)
People who list Usher as one of their favorite bands shouldn't throw stones. :) But I agree - I think he had the good sense to die young, which has always done wonders for mediocre careers. --George 00:56, 23 January 2006 (UTC)

He's alive and well and kicking it with Elvis and the real Paul McCartney who actually wasn't killed but faked it as part of an elaborate double hoax to throw the FBI off the scent of what really happened on that grassy knoll when JFK knew too much about the plans to fake the moon landing --the wikipedian on the grassy knoll 20:06 22 January 2006

hey... only one person would know that... Jim Morrison, is that you? 22:31, 22 January 2006 (UTC)
I strongly suspect that J.D. Salinger and Thomas Pynchon are involved in this scheme, because they want to keep Bigfoot and the Loch Ness monster hidden, and hide from the world the fact that Shakespeare didn't really write his plays, and they're in on it that 9/11 and the Holocaust didn't really happen. Yeltensic42.618 don't panic 22:44, 22 January 2006 (UTC)
I talked to Elvis the other day and he told me Tupac is most certainly dead. --Optichan 18:56, 23 January 2006 (UTC)
But I'm guessing it was actually Elvis Costello, who is most certainly alive. Or is he?....Yeltensic42.618 don't panic 16:52, 24 January 2006 (UTC)
I saw Tupac at McDonald's.
He got a Big Mac and some fries.
I saw Tupac at McDonald's.
I looked right into his big brown gangster rapper eyes.
I said, "You lied to me and my family and the whole world watching MTV.
I can't believe the things you did."
I looked at him and I think I cried,
He looked at me and then replied.
He said "Wweessttssiiddee is the best side. (Westside is the best side)"
He said "Wweessttssiiddee is the best side. (Westside is the best side)"
I saw Tupac at McDonalds.
He got a Chicken McNugget.
I saw Tupac at Mcdonald's.
That OG first taught me to thug it.
I said "You lied to me and my family and the whole world watching MTV.
I can't believe the things you did."
I looked at him and I took a breath,
"Please tell me why you faked your death."
He said "Wweessttssiiddee is the best side. (Westside is the best side)"
He said "Wweessttssiiddee is the best side. (Westside is the best side)"
In the city, city of Compton.
There ain't no life like a Tupac life
'Cause a Tupac life don't stop.

Zafiroblue05 08:04, 25 January 2006 (UTC) Great song.

I'm still waiting for the question about Tupac. This is a reference desk where questions get answered, not a venue for general chat - well, that's far from true, but it's supposed to start off with a question. No question was ever posed. Why couldn't this just have been deleted in the first place? Life's too short for this. JackofOz 23:31, 25 January 2006 (UTC)

Look what I started. Pacific Coast Highway|Leave a message ($.25) 15:51, June 10, 2008 (UTC)

[edit] Maryland

Is Maryland in the South or the Mid-Atlantic. Heegoop, 22 January 2006 (UTC)

Please read the first sentence of the Maryland article. Dismas|(talk) 18:23, 22 January 2006 (UTC)
unless of course you mean Maryland in Liberia... Grutness...wha? 22:34, 22 January 2006 (UTC)
It is sometimes said that Baltimore is the southernmost city in the Northeast, and Washington is the northernmost city in the South. Also, some consider Baltimore a Northern city but Maryland a Southern state. For the most part, the climate is more akin to the South, and ditto for the terrain (no glacier-carved features), though a bay such as Chesapeake Bay is probably a more northern feature for the coastline. It is part of the Eastern Seaboard urban belt, which is mostly in the Northeast; it is mostly a politically left-leaning state; and the accent is generally considered Northern (or at least in Baltimore, perhaps the accent in other areas is Southern); however, in addition the climate and terrain already mentioned, it was a slave state before and during the Civil War, which would historically put it more in the South. So, with all of that in mind, you can decide whether you think it's in the North or the South. Yeltensic42.618 don't panic 22:37, 22 January 2006 (UTC)

"Washington DC is a city of Southern efficiency and Northern charm." - Mark Twain

StuRat 23:57, 22 January 2006 (UTC)

[edit] PS3

Hello, I have at my house a wi-fi connection, and I was wondering if i would be able to connect my PS3 to that connection and be able to play online. Thank you daniel 19:24, 22 January 2006 (UTC)

Bring me a PS3 and I'll tell you. In other words, it's stupid to ask a question about a device that isn't on the market yet, but if I was a bettin' man, I'd say yes.--Ridge Racer 21:30, 22 January 2006 (UTC)
According to the PlayStation 3 article, the PS3 is equipped with IEEE 802.11g Wi-Fi, so you should certainly be able to use it with your existing Wi-Fi network. --Canley 23:14, 22 January 2006 (UTC)
Well, technically yes, but I was refering to the point that Sony may attempt to limit you in other ways, such as requiring you to pay for service like xbox live. Until the system is released, nothing is set in stone.--Ridge Racer 00:01, 23 January 2006 (UTC)

thanks for your contribution guys and gals, i'll just have to hope that technicaly YES I will be able to... daniel 16:14, 23 January 2006 (UTC)

From what I understand, Ridge Racer, they've already announced they'll never have pay services for the PlayStation line, because they're all about worldwide compatability and online gaming community formation; this is the official reason behind why they removed region encodings from PSP games and plan to do so with PS3 games as well. Cernen Xanthine Katrena 05:20, 24 January 2006 (UTC)

[edit] Kids cartoon shown in the UK in the 70's or 80's

Having hopefully identified a cartoon for someone above, I was talking to my mum about old kids cartoons, and now I've got another to ID, so here's what I know...

It was a foreign cartoon about a bear who might have been an orphan. Apparently the general format was that he'd make friends with other creatures, and have very simple adventures with them. It was shown for a while during the late 70's/early 80's in a lunchtime slot in rotation with other shows like The Clangers, Trumpton, Mr Benn, so it sounds like it was for a very young audience. Also, apparently it had a very nice theme song.

I don't remember it at all, but I've had a look through a bunch of 70's & 80's kids TV sites, and can't find anything fitting that description, so I'm thinking it might be fairly obscure, particularly if it was an imported show. Does this ring any bells with anybody? --Noodhoog 19:52, 22 January 2006 (UTC)

Izzy Noho? I remember him being a panda and that's about all. Google doesn't throw up much information beyond that I'm afraid. --GraemeL (talk) 20:04, 22 January 2006 (UTC)

Found it! it was "Colargol", shown in the UK as "Barnaby the Bear". Turns out it's a puppet type animation rather than a cartoon, which is why I hadn't previously found it, but thanks for your help GraemeL :)

Arrrgghh! Now I have the Barnaby the Bear theme tune going round and round in my head. --GraemeL (talk) 20:42, 22 January 2006 (UTC)

[edit] How tall is the L-Train track in Chicago?

Our article on the Chicago L doesn't say. I am curious too. Rmhermen 00:13, 23 January 2006 (UTC)

If you read through the external link at the fan site it would seem to indicate that the track is not always at the same height, which I assume is what the question means. However, it does not give a peak or average height, which I believe you can find in terms of depth for underground systems. Perhaps someone could email the the site and ask. I'd do it but I'm at work and don't want the email coming back here. CambridgeBayWeather (Talk) 06:06, 23 January 2006 (UTC)
If you can find a photo showing the stairs leading up to a particular station, you should be able to estimate the height at that station within 10% or so by simply counting the steps and figuring a height of 7 inches (18 cm) for each one. --Anonymous, 10:46 UTC, January 23.
According to this article on Accessible Transit Station Design at least one station (characterized as one of the lower stations in the system) is 22'11". Crypticfirefly 06:37, 26 January 2006 (UTC)

[edit] Three Gorges Damm

What is the current status of Three Gorges Damm? Is it under construction?

Try Three Gorges Dam. CambridgeBayWeather (Talk) 23:00, 22 January 2006 (UTC)

[edit] Cardiff Devon

I've done a bit of fruitless Yahoo!ing (not Googling) on the subject. Is there any kind of sea travel between Cardiff and Devon or Cardiff and Cornwall? Or maybe between Wales and the South West of England in general? Thanks --Dangherous 22:39, 22 January 2006 (UTC)

How much did you want to spend? You might try looking through here or here for cheaper stuff. On the other hand if expense is not a problem the this or something like it might be what you want. CambridgeBayWeather (Talk) 23:12, 22 January 2006 (UTC)
According to our Ilfracombe (in Devon) article, there is an "occasional ferry service" to Swansea and to Penarth, which is near Cardiff. -- AJR | Talk 02:28, 23 January 2006 (UTC)
Certainly nothing regular. The Ilfracombe things are probably just occasional day-trips in the summer. I dont know if you can fly from Newquay to Cardiff. If so, it would be better than the long road-trip. Jameswilson 05:12, 23 January 2006 (UTC)

[edit] Animal gender nouns

I am trying to find a list of terms for male and female animals, eg dog and vixen (fox), buck and doe (deer), bull and cow (cattle)etc. Does such a site exist and if so under what heading? Help much appreciated, M.Walmsley.

Try List of animal names. CambridgeBayWeather (Talk) 00:16, 23 January 2006 (UTC)

[edit] January 23

[edit] Bachelor's Degrees

Why are Bachelor's degrees called Bachelor's degrees? Is it to imply that people who have them still aren't married? Captain Jackson 00:36, 23 January 2006 (UTC)

The article Bachelor explains this. The "degree" meaning is not derived from the "unmarried" meaning, but both terms have the same Latin root: baccalarius, meaning a vassal farmer.. --Canley 00:48, 23 January 2006 (UTC)
It only gets worse. ☢ Ҡieff⌇↯ 04:19, 23 January 2006 (UTC)

[edit] Pictures of the Mujahedin

I am looking for any pictures of the Mujahedin because I am learning how to make die cast miniature figures and I would like to get some photos so I have something to work off of. I would like to add them to my collection. Thank you for any information you might be able to give me. sliddude

[edit] Wicca

Hey there On the covers of the series 'Wicca' who plays Morgan Rowlands and the other people like Cal? Thanks Seeing as there are diff versions, here is an example of one:

http://www.girl.com.au/img/wicca_eclipse12.jpg

thanks!

[edit] Toy packaging

I've noticed that it's getting harder and harder to remove toys from their packaging-- often there's multiple twist-ties through part of the toy that then go through cardboard, through some sort of brace and is then taped in the twisted position. Some have thought this was to protect from theft, but it seems to me like it would cost more money to install all this protection, then would actually be lost to theft. Also, what's with screwing all the battery compartments shut? Thanks, Melanie 141.152.250.37 01:01, 23 January 2006 (UTC)

I too find the twist-ties annoying, but I think you're overestimating the cost of adding them. As for screwing all the battery compartments shut, I'm happy for it. It stops the compartment opening on its own and the batteries falling out. - Nunh-huh 04:07, 23 January 2006 (UTC)
I suspect the reason for the battery screws is to stop the batteries from being put in the mouth of a small child. The twist-ties are also to help stop children from playing with the toys in the store. On the other hand the screws on the battery compatments are there to provide entertainment for my 2 year old grandson. First you have grandpa remove all the batteries and then try and fit them in different toys. CambridgeBayWeather (Talk) 05:49, 23 January 2006 (UTC)

"I see that toy dog is a girl."

"No dad, that's just where the batteries go." - Frasier

StuRat 15:16, 23 January 2006 (UTC)

[edit] How do you power wash CREOSOTE from wood furnace--

What can you use in a power washer to clean creosote from a woodstove, that can run off on ground with no clean-up required, and will neutralize any corrosive actions to metals of stove which are 409 stainless and mild steels..I thank you in advance for your time on this matter..dco

Do you plan to remove the furnace and power wash it outside ? If so, that seems like a lot of work. I would find a way to clean it inside. If it's already outside, why not sandblast it instead ? StuRat 20:47, 23 January 2006 (UTC)

[edit] Pewter trademarks

I have an old pewter mug and an even older pewter plate. Trademarks are visible on both. I am looking for reference material that will help me identify the manufacturer and approximate age of thes items. Can anyone tell me where I might find this information?

Thank you, Dick

This site may be helpful. --Uthbrian (talk) 03:30, 23 January 2006 (UTC)
I doubt you'll find a full list of hallmarks on-line. There are excellent references in book form though, check your local library or bookshop (or an online one). It'd be helpful if you knew the country of manufacture though, since there are literally thousands of hallmarks from each country, and most books of hallmarks concentrate on a single one. --BluePlatypus 14:41, 23 January 2006 (UTC)

[edit] Sexual Question

Why does my wife have to urinate after have sex?

---Tom Brinhower

Lots of people do. Lots of tubes are connected up down there, and the bladder takes quite a pounding too.
I've always been told that if women urinate after having sex their chances of getting a urinary tract infection (UTI) drop dramatically. So it is actually more healthy for her to urinate after sex than not to. Dismas|(talk) 04:48, 23 January 2006 (UTC)
After having read the UTI page, I see that it confirms what I said: "For sexually active women, and to a lesser extent men, urinating within 15 minutes of sexual intercourse to allow the flow of urine to expel the bacteria before specialized extensions anchor the bacteria to the walls of the urethra." Dismas|(talk) 04:52, 23 January 2006 (UTC)
Oooh, I just asked this question yesterday at the Science desk, only it had to do with me and not my wife as I am not married. Cernen Xanthine Katrena 05:17, 24 January 2006 (UTC)

[edit] Serena and Venus Williams played which male tennis player?

I'm recalling Venus and Serena were at the pinnacle of women's tennis (about five or so years ago), they were so dominant in fact they were claiming their right to play on the mens' ATP tour.

Some ex-professional challenged the sisters and promptly whipped them 6-1 and 6-0 in an exhibition match (there would be no BJ King/Riggs revisit here). He was a German, ranked below 300, a chain-smoker and with the name 'Carsten Branch', or something like that.

WHO was that player? It's been driving me insane and all web searches have been rendered fruitless so far. Anybody remember?

The guy was named Karsten Braasch, then ranked 203rd. He beat Serena 6-1 and Venus 6-2, and it was in 1998 at the Australian Open. BBC The Observer CBS Player profile DTB player profile Braasch retired end of 2005. No mention of chain smoking anywhere. Lupo 09:39, 23 January 2006 (UTC)

[edit] What is the measurement of the neck and opening of a Wine Bottle

I need to find out if the neck of the wine bottle and the opening has a standard size..I don't think so..but what does it range from for most bottles..from the thinnest neck and opening to the widest..I appreciate any knowledge you may have..

A standard wine bottle has a neck opening 18.5 mm in diameter. To give a good seal, standard cork size for wine bottles is 24 mm, with the exception of champagne bottles, which use 32 mm corks. There are bottles with different neck sizes on the market, and you may encounter some as used bottles. In particular, the flagon shaped bottles from Portugal have a much smaller neck opening, and screw-top bottles have a very large neck opening. GeeJo (t) (c) • 08:47, 23 January 2006 (UTC)

[edit] Jill Murphy: The Worst Witch

When I read the end of the 4th book I figured that was the end but then I looked at the list of the books and they have very seperated years of publication, and I just realised that the 5th one came out, do you know if she'll be writing more?

I would create a fan club and ask her first place. Since I ain't got time, would you ? Hint : If the hero(in) is not married with plenty of children to come, there should be more books instead. --DLL 20:40, 23 January 2006 (UTC)

I must sound so dumb but sorry I don't understand your answer :(

Well, try my answer, with extra simplicity for young readers :)
I did a search at amazon.com for "The Worst Witch", and found that her books are published by "Candlewick". I then did a google search for "candlewick publishers", and found their website. If you click the link marked "FAQ" on their site it explains how you can send Jill Murphy a letter; that way you can ask her personally whether there will be any more books in the series. --Robert Merkel 02:31, 24 January 2006 (UTC)

[edit] Where is this place

I am searching my family history and have come up against a block. One of my Ancestors was born in Remmen in Berkole in 1781, I have found a Remmen in Sweden and Cpoenhagen but can find no Berkole. Is this a town or county that no longer eists, please can you help?

Many Thanks

Could it be a farm name? Rmhermen 13:58, 23 January 2006 (UTC)
In the old Scandinavian form, a farm name would come first though, then the name of the "sogn" (Denmark) or "socken" (Sweden) and then the "Herred"/"Härad". The name "Remmen" is fairly generic though (it means "belt", "the belt" or "belts" in Dutch/German/Swedish/Danish/Norwegian), so there may be places by that name in all five countries. Certainly there are multiple in Scandinavia, so you won't get anywhere with that alone. I can see why you're having problems with "Berkole". That does not sound like a Scandinavian or Dutch/German name at all to me. (Nor can I quite place it anywhere else) If you take some liberties with the spelling there's a Berkel river in Germany/Holland though which flows past a place named Rekken. --BluePlatypus 14:36, 23 January 2006 (UTC)
Apparently nl:Rekken is in the Berkelland municipality, too. So that'd be my best guess. --BluePlatypus 19:04, 23 January 2006 (UTC)

[edit] Family Reasearch

I really want to know more about my family, so far I can only get up to three greats and it's not distant at all, I want to see everything, where they were from and all that and see how far I am related to a celeb lol, how can I do this?

Start with the article genealogy. In particular, try taking a look at the "External links" section to find a good link, so you can start an online search. --Uthbrian (talk) 12:30, 23 January 2006 (UTC)
One of the best resources is your own family. Start with the oldest members and go from there. It can be very surprising what they will tell you. The best way is to talk to them when there is no one else from your family around as they will tend to open up and give you information that they might have not told anyone else. CambridgeBayWeather (Talk) 13:25, 23 January 2006 (UTC)

[edit] chemical compound

DMSO 2 AND DMSO 4

could someone please advise what dmso is?

there are two variations dmso2 and dmso4. for what use would they be applied.

thanking you in advance,

jaclyn m.

See DMSO. Rmhermen 13:58, 23 January 2006 (UTC)

i appreciate this info: but, what is that???rmhermen????

Their name. It links to their userpage.

[edit] Swiss Bank Account

How would I go about opening a Swiss or Cayman bank account. (If I had the cash i wouldn't be asking but it would be quite fun saying i had a swiss bank account).

Americans can apply at their nearest IRS office. --Zeizmic 15:38, 23 January 2006 (UTC)
LOL. StuRat 17:35, 23 January 2006 (UTC)
Try this: go to a bank, online or otherwise, and tell them that you want to open an account, and be prepared to pay quite hefty fees for an account which is less convenient than a domestic one. (UBS charges $150 a year for a general savings account). --BluePlatypus 17:57, 23 January 2006 (UTC)
As I mentioned earlier to someone, it's really not worth it unless you have a lot of money; typically, Swiss banks require an opening balance of $50,000 or more. That's why they're referred to more often as "wealth management firms." Cernen Xanthine Katrena 03:15, 24 January 2006 (UTC)

"The theory that you can avoid paying taxes on a Swiss bank account has several large holes in it." StuRat 01:49, 26 January 2006 (UTC)

[edit] Waste

What do u mean by waste? Info About dry waste & Wet Waste. How they pollute the atmosphere

me? I don't mean anything. But you might want to try the pages on waste, pollution, air pollution and the Earth's atmosphere. Good luck with your homework ;) --Noodhoog 17:11, 23 January 2006 (UTC)

[edit] MVP College Baseball!

Why is Texas ranked 1? always? no offense Texans! --MaoJin 15:34, 23 January 2006 (UTC)

Because we are the best? :) Keepitrude 03:23, 24 January 2006 (UTC) (I'm from Texas)
Ranked 1 where and for what? DirkvdM 20:25, 24 January 2006 (UTC)
I'd assume MVP College Basketball, like the title says. No idea where.

MVP college ncaa baseball

[edit] PS3

Hello, I am writing again about the PS3 and I don't understand what it means when people say that it is X many times more powerful than a computer. Does it mean that it is faster? or that it's graphics are better? daniel 16:25, 23 January 2006 (UTC)

Generally people who make statements like that are fanboys, either claiming "The PS3 is gonna be the BEST THING EVER!" or "The PS3 is gonna SUCK". While comparisons can be made between certain aspects of it's architecture and components as compared to other games consoles, computers, etc, for the most part it's all meaningless speculation. What actually matters is how it performs when it's released. Until then, it's all just "My dad could beat up your dad" posturing. --Noodhoog 17:03, 23 January 2006 (UTC)

thanks....daniel 18:05, 23 January 2006 (UTC)

For further information, you might want to have a look at Cell (microprocessor), though much of it probably won't make sense unless you're a computer programmer. Basically, the PS3's processor has many parallel "work units" to which you can assign different tasks to run in parallel. If all of them are used to their maximum efficiency, the total amount of work that can get done far exceeds that on a standard PC. The type of tasks required to support a computer game are well-suited to this kind of parallel processing. In practice, much of the grunt work that the Cell is optimized for is performed by the graphics card on a gaming PC anyway, and so the supposed speed advantage of the PS3 will not result in nearly as dramatic improvement in graphics as you might think. Additionally, PC's are a moving target. --Robert Merkel 02:21, 24 January 2006 (UTC)

[edit] Food

What dose it mean when I no longer crave food? I get hungry but I know that if I just wait for a little while the hunger will go away? Is this a normal feeling?

Sounds to me like you're lucky. I think it's normal for hunger to come in waves. StuRat 17:32, 23 January 2006 (UTC)
That's how it goes with me. In effect, I'm underweighted and everyone pisses me off to eat more. ¬¬ ☢ Ҡieff⌇↯ 04:07, 24 January 2006 (UTC)
By any chance are you a smoker ? Smoking is notorious for ruining the appetite. StuRat 11:28, 24 January 2006 (UTC)
As long as you can still eat when not hungry, you should do fine. You just need to be sure to eat the proper amount instead of relying on your appetite to tell you what the proper amount is. This is the same thing millions of people must do, only you need to force yourself to eat more, not less. StuRat 11:26, 24 January 2006 (UTC)
Smoking is notorious for ruining the appetite. You're probably not a smoker. When I smoke a cigarette that actually wets my appetite. Of course I could be the odd one out, but I've heard so much utter crap about smoking that I'll assume this is also complete nonsense. It's sort of like when someone lies too often, after a while you will start to assume that anything else that person says will also be a lie. DirkvdM 20:32, 24 January 2006 (UTC)
I think the truth for most people is somewhere in between being "notorious for ruining the appetite' and "actually wets [sic] my appetite". See this article about nicotine being an appetite suppressant for most people. JackofOz 23:25, 25 January 2006 (UTC)
That link doesnt work on my browser (FireFox). It looks like you may have to register to see the subpages. StuRat 01:45, 26 January 2006 (UTC)
Oops, no I have made a spelling error. After my comment below this was your chance at getting back at me. Missed it! And the link doesn't work with Konqueror or Mozilla either. DirkvdM 09:30, 26 January 2006 (UTC)
I've fixed the link. It should work fine now. Cheers JackofOz 11:23, 26 January 2006 (UTC)

[edit] CHEMICAL COMPOUND DMSO 2 AND DMSO 4

Could someone pls advise what application these chemicals would be used for? what exactly are these chemicals? my original message seems to have disappeared.

thanking you in advance

jaclyn m.

See Dimethyl sulfoxide Rmhermen 17:23, 23 January 2006 (UTC)
It's a solvent. See the article under "Uses". --BluePlatypus 18:16, 23 January 2006 (UTC)


many thanks for the response. jackie

They are used as by veterinarians to treat horses. They are also a carrier to transport whatever they are mixed with through the skin (eg to expose a medicine directly to where it is needed). AllanHainey 08:44, 25 January 2006 (UTC)

THANK YOU SO MUCH FOR THIS INFORMATION-JACLYN

[edit] assasination

The current Wikipedia entry on "assassination" refers to the following --

"One remarkable recent example involved a political figure who made the mistake of keeping to a regular route and schedule. Assassins were able to plan for his travel, and detonated an explosive charge beside the roadway, which propelled a metal plate through the target's vehicle at lethal speed, killing him."

All I want to know is the name of this victim.

Could be Giovanni Falcone, although they blew up the entire highway for several hundred meters in that case. --BluePlatypus 20:26, 23 January 2006 (UTC)
Sounds very much like a Mossad assination I saw on a TV documentary. Maybe there's a list of these assinations somewhere... I might look for it later.--Commander Keane 08:20, 24 January 2006 (UTC)
There's probably multiple victims. Many assassination attempts are based on the assassin going to where the victim is expected to travel. Also there's games that simulate this. User:AlMac|(talk) 13:13, 24 January 2006 (UTC)

[edit] Building a post-and-rail fence

I'm looking for information on how to construct a traditional British three rail post-and-rail fence. If anyone can help, I'd greatly appreciate it. --88.109.224.92 20:51, 23 January 2006 (UTC)

Have you tried a www.google.com search ? StuRat 21:06, 26 January 2006 (UTC)

[edit] Help in identifiying a plant.

Took this picture a while ago, and I've always wondered what kind of plant this is since I took it. Could anybody tell me what kind of plant this is, or if this is in the wrong place, tell me where I could get this question answered?

Thanks in advance for any help offered. --P. B. Mann 22:06, 23 January 2006 (UTC)

I'm really, really bad at this stuff, but I think it's some kind of Hibiscus. --BluePlatypus 22:39, 23 January 2006 (UTC)
IANAB, so i can't help, but it would probably be useful to know where this plant was - both what part of the world (southern US? Scandinavia?) and what type of land (marsh? mountain?). Grutness...wha? 22:50, 23 January 2006 (UTC)
This flower was in one of the gardens at Disneyland, if that's any help. --P. B. Mann 23:12, 23 January 2006 (UTC)
Definitely a hibiscus of some sort.. here's an almost identical picture of a hibiscus. --BluePlatypus 23:24, 23 January 2006 (UTC)
Thanks! I probably have to find an expert on the subject to find out what species it is, though. --P. B. Mann 23:39, 23 January 2006 (UTC)
  • I do believe this is a Hibiscus rosa-sinensis ‘Seminole Pink’. Here's one a little earlier in its lifecycle: [53]. --jpgordon∇∆∇∆ 02:07, 24 January 2006 (UTC)

[edit] January 24

[edit] karate- Sen no Sen

I am a karate student of the Seito Matsumura Ryu style. I can not find the meaning of sen. There is also Sen Go Sen and also Sen no Sen. Do you have an answer to its meaning? Thank you. Jan end.

According to this page of karate terminology:
  • Sen: Initiative
  • Sen no sen: Seizing the initiative earlier; attacking at the same moment your opponent attacks.
  • Go no sen: Seizing the initiative later; Allowing your opponent to attack first so as to open up target for counter-attacks.
  • Sen sen no sen: Seizing the opponent’s sen no sen; Attacking before your opponent attacks-a preemptive attack.
They seem to be different timings of attacks. AlbinoMonkey (Talk) 01:38, 24 January 2006 (UTC)

[edit] Benji: Off the Leash

I was wondering what kind of dog Benji is. I am looking to get a dog that looks like Benji and the Wikipedia article is not detailed enough. Thanx --Zach 01:36, 24 January 2006 (UTC)

He is a mutt, meaning a mix of different breeds. The first Benji was a poodle x cocker spaniel x schnauzer. I'm not sure what the new one is though, but they look pretty similar. AlbinoMonkey (Talk) 01:46, 24 January 2006 (UTC)
That's just a guess about the first one, though -- they're both pound puppies. --jpgordon∇∆∇∆ 01:47, 24 January 2006 (UTC)

A bit of trivia for you: the dog, Higgins, which played the original Benji, was also the dog on Petticoat Junction. StuRat 11:20, 24 January 2006 (UTC)

[edit] What you do when you sleep

Do you swallow, sneeze, or cough while you're asleep? JW RENTASTRAWBERRY FOR LET? röck 02:27, 24 January 2006 (UTC)

Swallow yes, cough yes, sneeze no (or at least not very often without waking up). alteripse 03:58, 24 January 2006 (UTC)
  • Did you know that if you dream about food, your stomach thinks that the food is actually real and begins making juices in the stomach? KILO-LIMA 18:19, 24 January 2006 (UTC)
  • My dad runs in his sleep. He has a tendancy to kick the covers off of my parent bed. I have a tendency to moan and chew in my sleep; I suspect this may be a leftover adaptation my body made from back when I had my tawnsills and adnoids. I also have a tendency to cacoon my self in the comforter, the blanket, and anything else left on the bed. TomStar81 04:47, 25 January 2006 (UTC)

[edit] Dreams

Are dreams like an astral plane? Having a different life somewhere else? Also is true that dreams only happen as your waking up?

From what I understand, dreams are your minds way of dealing with your thoughts and feelings, not to mention all the things you see and hear during the day. And about occuring in the waking state, I also recall that you have several 11(est.) second dreams that occur in the deepest cycle of sleep R.E.M. If I am incorrect about any of this. Please correct me. Keepitrude 03:19, 24 January 2006 (UTC)
See dream. The neurologists reckon it's just the brain trying to interpret random noise from the sensory input parts of the brain. Scientists are a bunch of killjoys, but they have a disconcerting habit of backing up their arguments with actual evidence. --Robert Merkel 03:54, 24 January 2006 (UTC)
"Scientists are a bunch of killjoys, but they have a disconcerting habit of backing up their arguments with actual evidence." this is a great quote, man. ☢ Ҡieff⌇↯ 04:01, 24 January 2006 (UTC)

[edit] Trailor Song

On the VHS copy of Benny & Joon, there is a trailor for a movie called Untaimed Heart. In the trailor there is a song in the background and it has been driving me crazy, I cannot figure out what it is. I tried the soundtrack but it is not there. So if anyone could help me out, it would be greatly appreciated. Thanks.:) Keepitrude 03:35, 24 January 2006 (UTC)

I watched the trailer here and the song that played was "Tom's Diner" by Suzanne Vega. --jh51681 04:12, 24 January 2006 (UTC)

Thank you, so much. :) Keepitrude 00:26, 25 January 2006 (UTC)

[edit] Jurys

Why aren't there more hung Jurys in criminal cases? How can you get 12 people to unanamously to agree to acquit or convict someone consistantly?

Because, much of the time, cases are far less ambiguous than the ones that you hear about in the news and especially in tv shows. In practice, more often than not, cases in the United States are resolved by plea bargain and thus a jury never has to make a decision. Of the cases that actually go to trial, a large majority result in a conviction. Actual jury acquittals are quite rare, as this graph indicates (it's only for San Diego, but it's indicative). Prosecutors don't tend to take a course to trial unless they think they've got very strong evidence. --Robert Merkel 06:21, 24 January 2006 (UTC)
In Canada, trials go to jury (as opposed to just a judge), when the accused is technically guilty (as viewed by a judge), but where they hope to get sympathy from a jury for a special case. This was the case when I was on jury duty once -- the lady got off. --Zeizmic 13:19, 24 January 2006 (UTC)
Juries also get to discuss the case after the evidence is presented. That's what they are doing while they are 'out'. So if ten people think the defendant is guilty they get the chance to persuade the other two to agree. Actually they get potentially a long time to do that persuasion. If they really can't agree a jury can also (in most jurisdictions) return a 'majority verdict' in which only most of the twelve have to agree. DJ Clayworth 16:26, 24 January 2006 (UTC)
In the US, a finding of criminal guilt by a jury has to be unanimous.--Pharos 15:36, 25 January 2006 (UTC)
Noooo, that varies by state. Some states, yes; others, a simple majority will do it. We're a nation of complex misnomers and strange, twisted philosophies, America is. Cernen Xanthine Katrena 17:51, 26 January 2006 (UTC)
Law dramas are fun to watch, but there are very few Perry Mason or "Law and Order" moments in an actual courtroom. Both attorneys (Prosecution/Defense) know of all the evidence and witnesses, and there is alsmost never any surprise infromation presented. You'd be bored to tears if you watched the amouth of procedural stuff that takes place during a trial.
As for hung Juries, real cases are usually much less complex (as stated above), and to compound this most people want to be done with jury duty as quickly as possible. Dragoon235 04:48, 29 January 2006 (UTC)

[edit] Having to go

Is it bad if you don't go to the bathroom right away when you have to go? Sometimes i feel i have a bowel movement, but if i wait, the feeling wouldn't comeback for a couple hours. I am curious.

Mmm, a very interesting query. I don't think so; I've never had a bad experience whilst doing it. In some cases, it's a tad more appropriate to hold back. You don't want to take a BM on company time; if you do, chances are people are going to ask where you went. Cernen Xanthine Katrena 05:13, 24 January 2006 (UTC)

Check out what reportedly happened to Tycho Brahe. alteripse 05:27, 24 January 2006 (UTC)

Holding back when you have to urinate could possibly lead to kidney stones, but holding back on defacation should be fine as long as it's within reason. Note, however, that many people can hold off for at most a few minutes, then risk soiling themselves. Holding back for days could also lead to constipation, as too much water is removed by the bowels, so should be avoided. StuRat 11:09, 24 January 2006 (UTC)

[edit] William H. Macy, Wrecked 1915

A ship named the William H. Macy sunk off of the coast of North Carolina in 1915. This seems too much of a coincidence, not to be related somehow to the eponymous actor. Any insight?

My email is slittle@talos.com (though I know you specifically told me not to bother providing my own contact information.)

Cheers.

Scott Little

Actually, the actor William H Macy is not eponymous - unless there's something been named after him I'm not aware of. The above ship was certainly not named after him. JackofOz 07:29, 24 January 2006 (UTC)
Indeed not, as William H. Macy was born in 1950. This raises the question after whom the ship was named. Lupo 07:50, 24 January 2006 (UTC)
Lacking a time machine, the ship can't have been named after him, but the possibility remains that he was named after the ship. Since that is his birth name, only his first and middle names would have been chosen, so perhaps his parents named him "William H." in honor of the ship. Then again, "William H." is a fairly common combo. StuRat 11:02, 24 January 2006 (UTC)
I did a bit of research, and you're right about the contemporary use of the word "eponymous". Originally, it referred to the person after whom something is named, but not to the thing itself. But now it has become used for both. Webster's 3rd has recognised this usage since 1986. The Oxford Dictionary was still holding out in 1989, but it made it into the 1998 New Oxford. I think it's unlikely that the actor was named after the ship, but if that were to be the case, both he and the ship would be called "eponymous" these days. I learn so much from WP, I often wonder how I got on without it before I discovered it. JackofOz 01:40, 25 January 2006 (UTC)
I'm guessing that before Wikipedia you found other people to molest. :-) StuRat 01:37, 26 January 2006 (UTC)
I have just thanked you, voluntarily, for educating me about a bit of language, and you respond with a disgraceful comment like that?? Really, StuRat!! However I see the smiley at the end so I will take it as a very strange form of humour. Thin ice, mate, very thin ice. Cheers JackofOz 05:37, 26 January 2006 (UTC)
Well, who was the ship named after? It's just possible it could have been named after his grandfather or something.--Pharos 15:31, 25 January 2006 (UTC)

[edit] Genesis

(heading added by Akamad 08:34, 24 January 2006 (UTC))

what happened before genesis?

Well, according to the Bible, which is where Genesis is found, nothing happened before Genesis. It starts off "In the beginning, God created ...". JackofOz 09:01, 24 January 2006 (UTC)
How, then, shall I respond to him who asks, "What was God doing before he made heaven and earth?" I do not answer, as a certain one is reported to have done facetiously (shrugging off the force of the question). "He was preparing hell," he said, "for those who pry too deep." It is one thing to see the answer; it is another to laugh at the questioner--and for myself I do not answer these things thus. More willingly would I have answered, "I do not know what I do not know," than cause one who asked a deep question to be ridiculed--and by such tactics gain praise for a worthless answer. —Augustine of Hippo, Confessions book XI ch. 12
—Charles P.  (Mirv) 09:19, 24 January 2006 (UTC)
God thought: "Crap, this place is so BORING". So he created existence and humans, and now acts like a little kid with a magnifying glass torturing little ants. ☢ Ҡieff⌇↯ 09:25, 24 January 2006 (UTC)
To address the question another way, Before Genesis [was written], people believed in other gods and other creation stories --Noodhoog 11:12, 24 January 2006 (UTC)
Well, some may have. I wonder if the belief in gods has risen or declined over time. I mean, in terms of thousands of years. And when was genesis written anyway? I believe that if you add up everything in the bible then creation is supposed to have happened some 7000 years ago. But then again, according to the bible, the early people lived close to 1000 years, so I wonder how that can be then. Then again, there's more nonsense in Genesis, like where did the third generation come from? Incest? No, it turns out that Kain left and met another people. Another people? By a different god or something? I suppose the old testament is really a story about the origin of the Jews, not mankind as a whole. DirkvdM 20:50, 24 January 2006 (UTC)
I believe only one group of people was said to have lived to those lengths of time. One explanation is that they measured age in months instead of years, as hunter-gatherers in general and Native Americans, in particular, tended to do. For such people the cycle of the moon is most important, since it dictates when the full moon will make night hunting possible. It also corresponds roughly with a woman's period, which brings up the idea that women may have originally had their periods on the full moon, when the men were away hunting, to avoid them killing each other.
Farmers and herders, on the other hand, care more about years since that dictates when to plant, harvest, move their animals to new ground, etc. A hunter-gatherer who is asked their age might very well say 390, meaning 30 years, figuring about 13 moon cycles per year. StuRat 15:47, 25 January 2006 (UTC)
It's pretty much the whole of Genesis where people live that long, most notably Methusalem (I once read that while waiting for someone in a hut in New Zealand that had a Gideon's bible in it). A little theory of mine is that since 666 is the number of the beast and the Devil is often portrayed as God upside-down, God may very well be 999. So reaching an age close to that means being close to God. Ok, that's a bit far-fetched. DirkvdM 09:37, 26 January 2006 (UTC)
I'll say. I believe some lived past that age, so would have surpassed even God, under your theory. StuRat 11:26, 26 January 2006 (UTC)

[edit] Ms-word

Is Ms-word a word processing package? If yes suitly emphazi

Yes, Microsoft Word. 62.119.184.141 12:27, 24 January 2006 (UTC)
Now suitly emphazi it. --Optichan 16:52, 24 January 2006 (UTC)
Uhm, I did suitably emphasize it. I made it a link. Click it. Is that not easy enough? TERdON 23:05, 25 January 2006 (UTC)
May I humbly request that "Now suitly emphazi it!" become a WP:RD running joke? --Sum0 23:15, 24 January 2006 (UTC)
Yes, it can be used to "suitly emphazi" the importance of checking your own typing, LOL. StuRat 15:36, 25 January 2006 (UTC)
Excellent, it's catching on! --Sum0 15:55, 25 January 2006 (UTC)

Mmm. Wikipedia:Civility: "Petty examples that contribute to an uncivil environment... belittling contributors because of their language skills or word choice". We should be using clear English here anyway, there's no need complicate answers.--Commander Keane 19:46, 25 January 2006 (UTC)

I agree that sometimes the RD can be a little unkind to honest contributors, and I don't like it when it's like that, but when it's just between us editors, ya know... Anyway, I digress. --Sum0 20:05, 25 January 2006 (UTC)

What is all of this about, "suitly emphazi"? I keep seeing it all over the reference desk, what does it mean? Yeltensic42.618 don't panic 01:23, 26 January 2006 (UTC)

If you look at the top of this item, you will see that the author misspelled "suitably emphasize" as "suitly emphazi". Some of us found such poor spelling and lack of checking one's own typing to be quite entertaining. StuRat 01:33, 26 January 2006 (UTC)
Oh, okay, so this is where it all started? I'd seen it other places first, didn't realize this item was its birthplace. Thanks. I wonder how far it's spread? Yeltensic42.618 don't panic 07:05, 26 January 2006 (UTC)
Yes this is the birthpalce. You have just outlined the problem with this runnnig joke - it's confusing. Even to regulars like Yeltensic42.618. I'm sure an Edit > Find search in your browser will outline the spread.--Commander Keane 09:22, 26 January 2006 (UTC)
Oh, this discussion is way too good not to go into BJAODN. Cernen Xanthine Katrena 17:53, 26 January 2006 (UTC)
I wonder if the poster meant "subtly emphasize," not suitably... Zafiroblue05 20:32, 27 January 2006 (UTC)

[edit] Computer animation job questions

What is so interesting about being a computer animator?

Why are people so interested in computer animation?

How much do computer animators get paid?

how many years of college do you have to attend in order to get a computer animation job?

Where can I find more information on computer animation?


See Computer-generated imagery and Computer Animation --Noodhoog 13:53, 24 January 2006 (UTC)

[edit] elven history

i would like to know if there is any information that may prove that elves once existed or any writings that may have actual proof

If you can become one of the very few people in the world that could live through Tolkien's Silmarillon, then you will have your answer ... or you'll be dead. --Zeizmic 15:04, 24 January 2006 (UTC)
Aside from a form of upper atmospheric lightning phenomena, the only evidence for elves is found in fiction. — Lomn Talk 15:36, 24 January 2006 (UTC)

Well, there was a race of tiny people, Homo floresienses, but calling them elves might be a stretch. We apparently need an article on them. See this page for info:

http://news.nationalgeographic.com/news/2004/10/1027_041027_homo_floresiensis.html

StuRat

  • Thanks. StuRat 15:31, 25 January 2006 (UTC)
I think the proof is that we're not the race selected by the Valar. If there were no elves, then Valinor wouldn't be closed from us. – b_jonas 14:01, 28 January 2006 (UTC)

[edit] Booker T. Washington

in my english class we are writing a research paper on specific authors and i have choosen Booker t. washington. In your opinon why is he a great american, what did he do to influence the thoughts of others?

Your homework assignment asks for your opinion of Booker T. Washington, not ours. — Lomn Talk 16:33, 24 January 2006 (UTC)
If you don't have an opinion on the guy, try to think of an opinion someone else may have on him. --Optichan 16:54, 24 January 2006 (UTC)

He's a 'great American' because people who do their own homework say he is. He influenced outhers by writing things, which you may or may not care to read. AllanHainey 08:50, 25 January 2006 (UTC)

[edit] Organized religion

I was emailing with a friend last nite, and we were talking about organized religion (specifically the Catholic church). It seems to me that I remember seeing something in the book of revelations about organized religion leading people down the wrong path in the final days. Is there such a statement in the bible..........or did I read this somewhere else?

I don't know of anything in the Book of Revelation; it's never so straightforward as all that. See that article for info.
There are, however, some passages elsewhere that you could spin that way. I'd suggest using one of the many online "search the Bible" tools or, perhaps better, online concordances. Try this site. --George 17:17, 24 January 2006 (UTC)
Isn't all religion organised? I mean, religion is when people decide to have the same belief, and that is a form of organisation, right? DirkvdM 20:54, 24 January 2006 (UTC)
Some religions and sects are more hierarchical, with the Catholic Church being perhaps the most so. Others, like the Quakers, leave much of the interpretation of the Bible to the members, rather than having somebody up high decide what it means and tell you what to believe. StuRat 21:36, 24 January 2006 (UTC)
So its a gradual thing, so the term makes no sense because there is always some level of organisation. One can only speak of 'more organised' religion. DirkvdM 12:36, 25 January 2006 (UTC)
There are also people who have their own unique religous beliefs, and aren't organized with others in any way. Perhaps this is what Revelations had in mind as the ideal. StuRat 14:55, 25 January 2006 (UTC)
Yeah, but my point was that that is a belief, not a religion. At least, that is how I sort of define the terms. Then again, it makes littel sense to argue about the meaning of English terms when the question is about a book that is originally written in, ehm, what? Well, something that will be hard to discuss in English. Or even impossible. Which would make all discussions about Christianity and Judaism invalid because they're based on texts in dead languages. Or am I exaggerating now? (Not that I think any religious discussion makes any sense, but that's a differnt matter). DirkvdM 20:45, 25 January 2006 (UTC)
Not a different matter at all, Dirk. It's very germane indeed. You've just acknowledged that you have a bias about this subject and thus your entire contribution to this debate is POV-tainted and should be taken with a grain of salt. (I've got to find ways of reducing my sodium intake. WP ref desk is a health hazard.) Cheers. JackofOz 23:13, 25 January 2006 (UTC)
If only people who lack any opinion on a subject may comment on it, then we will have many unanswerered questions here. StuRat 01:26, 26 January 2006 (UTC)
People who lack opinions would have nothing to contribute at all. Everyone has an opinion on certain things; sometimes those opinions are educated, sometimes they're baseless, sometimes they're in-between. Dirk says that he doesn't think any religious discussion makes sense, which is quite a sweeping statement. I don't quibble with his right to have that point of view, but equally nobody should quibble with my right not to give much credence to anything he said on the subject of religion, because it would be, by his own admission, inherently biased. JackofOz 04:00, 26 January 2006 (UTC)
And of course I reserve the same right to ignore you. :) What I meant to say is that religious discussions usually end the way they start, with people having different opinions. They may use all manner of argument but will only listen to themselves and stick to whichever preconception they started of with. I've seen this happen many times and decided I would never enter another religious discussion. Not very successfully, as you may have noticed. But the issue I raised is of a rather different nature. Can one discuss a book written in a language one doesn't quite understand? Especially one that is said to have indisputable truths that may not be altered! DirkvdM 09:53, 26 January 2006 (UTC)
And as Dirk's opinion is quite an educated opinion indeed, there should be no problem here. Yeltensic42.618 don't panic 16:10, 26 January 2006 (UTC)
Yes, translation from one language to another is an obvious conduit for the introduction of error. For example, the Biblical commandment "Thou shalt not kill" must be a misinterpretation, as the word "kill" in English means to intentionally end the life of any person, animal, plant, or even bacteria. Surely they didn't mean that. Either it means "Thou shalt not kill people" or perhaps "Thous shalt not commit murder" if some forms of killing people, such as during war, self defence, or capital punishment for crimes, are to be allowed. With the poor translation available to us, we don't really know the intent of the commandment. StuRat 11:13, 26 January 2006 (UTC)
Knowing the mind of God has always been a toughie. The story is that Moses received the commandments on Mt Sinai from God Himself, who inscribed them with His finger on tablets of stone. I think most languages have a generic word equivalent to "kill", and that's the word God is supposed to have used, no more and no less. It would be wrong to translate this in any way other than the generic English word "kill". But interpreting what this means in practice is where the debate starts, eg. whether it's OK to kill flies but not humans, or whether it's OK to kill in self-defence but not out of anger, etc. JackofOz 23:08, 26 January 2006 (UTC)

I've never read the book of revelation, but I'll just pass on what little I know. I guess you're thinking of the antichrist. As that article states, he's not mentioned much in the bible, so it's open to interpretation, but some interpretations are that the antichrist will be a false teacher pretending to follow the teachings of Christ. Some believe he will be a religious or world leader. Anti-Catholics think he'll be (or even is now) the Pope. So there are interpretations where it's organized religion leading people astray. Probably the bible doesn't mention organized religion itself, that's only modern interpretation. -lethe talk 21:20, 25 January 2006 (UTC)

I do not remember the name for it. There is probably a Wiki article on the subject. But there are people who read holy books like The Bible and are devout believers in what they get out of it, but they do not attend any church or congregation. User:AlMac|(talk) 04:12, 26 January 2006 (UTC)
Perhaps you're thinking of Christian anarchism, or even nonconformism? Grutness...wha? 07:32, 27 January 2006 (UTC)

[edit] Sports

I'd like to know Franco Harris's jersey number while he played with the Seahawks.

Glenn --64.12.116.199 18:04, 24 January 2006 (UTC)

At some point his jersey number was 32, but I'm not sure if that was when he was playing for the Steelers or the Seahawks. [54] --Optichan 18:46, 24 January 2006 (UTC)
I haven't found a picture, but I've found a couple things that suggest it was 34. --jpgordon∇∆∇∆ 06:08, 25 January 2006 (UTC)
According to the picture here, the answer is indeed 34. (ESkog)(Talk) 06:12, 25 January 2006 (UTC)

[edit] Crops

What is Britains largest cereal crop? --195.92.67.75 20:14, 24 January 2006 (UTC)

According to the UN Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO)[55], the United Kingdom produced 15 million tons of wheat last year compared to 5.5 million tons of barley and 0.5 million tons of oats. Triticale, mixed grain and rye were in much lower amounts (and zero maize, sorghum or soybeans) Rmhermen 22:46, 24 January 2006 (UTC)
Also try Economy of the United Kingdom and look at the section on agriculture. CambridgeBayWeather (Talk) 22:50, 24 January 2006 (UTC)

Wheat is Britains largest cereal crop? Sorry, couldnt resist it! Jameswilson 00:56, 25 January 2006 (UTC)

A serial cereal question! Grutness...wha? 07:43, 27 January 2006 (UTC)

[edit] LaTeX

Your page discusses LaTeX. Can this editor (software) properly read a Word Documend such as a book and prepare if for ofset printing; or must the book or document be prepared originally in LaTeX?

As far as I know there is no way to convert a Microsoft Word document into LaTeX (or TeX), and in any case such would certainly run counter to the fundamental design principles of LaTeX. As for preparing a Word document for printing, commercial desktop publishing programs like Adobe PageMaker can import Word documents, but the quality of the results may vary a lot. In my experience, as often as not it can be easier to just export the document as plain text and recreate the formatting from scratch in the DTP program. —Ilmari Karonen (talk) 20:38, 24 January 2006 (UTC)
If you want to offset print a LaTeXdocument (or for that matter a Word document), I would recommend first converting it to the PDF format using Adobe Acrobat or other such software. LaTeX can also output directly to PostScript which can also be handled by most commercial printers. If your document is in Word and you are happy with the way it looks, there is no need for it to be converted to LaTeX. --Canley 23:13, 24 January 2006 (UTC)
There are ways. How well they work is an open question... [56] --Fangz 03:32, 25 January 2006 (UTC)

[edit] Odd Light

Yesterday I was on my computer and a light went on and off, naturally I assumed it was my light which flickered, but it never flickers unless I switch it on and then it'll flickier if the light bulb is out. But then a few minutues later I switched on the light and as usual it bathed the room in light, but the light that flickered was a much deeper yellow and it didn't bathe the room, and it was above my head, diagonally which isn't where my lamp is. What could it have been? I just tried flickering my light and that was definitley not how it happened! I am now thinking it could have been a faery?

I would work through the more mundane explanations first. Perhaps there was a "power bump" or minor brown-out. This will cause your lights to flicker/go on and off. CambridgeBayWeather (Talk) 22:53, 24 January 2006 (UTC)
A common source of odd lights is reflected sunlight off objects outside the window, including the possibility of a double reflection. --Anonymous, 11:00 UTC, January 25.

[edit] Tower of Bable

How tall was the tower of Bable mentioned in the Bible?? —Preceding unsigned comment added by 66.227.239.174 (talk • contribs)

According to our Tower of Babel article, the Book of Jubilees states that its height amounted to 5433 cubits and 2 palms. Those units of measure are not precise, please see our articles Cubit and Palm (unit). hydnjo talk 00:16, 25 January 2006 (UTC)
That is only according to the Book of Jubilees. The Bible contains no mention of the tower's height, and the Apocalypse of Baruch describes it as 463 cubits. See Tower of Babel for more information. СПУТНИКССС Р 00:27, 25 January 2006 (UTC)
At 1.5 feet per cubit, 5433 cubits would be 8150 ft or over a mile and half high, which is about 4 times beyond even current capabilities, much less ancient technology. Even 463 cubits would be 695 feet tall, or about 50% taller than the tallest Egyptian pyramid, which would seem like a stretch, but perhaps at least in the range of possibilities. StuRat 14:38, 25 January 2006 (UTC)
Which just shows that the following counteraction was effective. – b_jonas 13:50, 28 January 2006 (UTC)
What "following counteraction" ? StuRat 14:08, 28 January 2006 (UTC)
Giving everyone different languages so they couldn't communicate with each other anymore. --Angr 14:23, 28 January 2006 (UTC)
So having a very tall building "Shows why giving everyone different languages so they couldn't communicate with each other anymore was effective" ? StuRat 14:31, 28 January 2006 (UTC)
Hey b_jonas, certain Hungarian sources claim: És azon torony négy szögre emelkedett; széle egyik szegletétől a másikig tizenötezer lépés, hossza ugyanannyi volt, magassága még nem volt bevégezve, hanem szándékuk szerént a hold köréig, mellyet az özönvíz fel nem ért, fel kellett volna emelve lennie., so the thing is actually a massive 15,000 paces. And the ruins "can be seen today between Alexandria and Memphis." (the pyramids are the tower!) So that's the traditional Magyar value. ;) --BluePlatypus 20:20, 31 January 2006 (UTC)

[edit] January 25

[edit] U.S. President - total compensation

The President of the United States has an annual base salary of $400,000. What would be the value of all the perks? I can think of:

  • Free housing for him and his family
  • Free medical care
  • Free meals, complete with a master chef
  • Free transportation
  • Secret Service protection

Basically, everything he needs is paid for. I'm thinking the total compensation must run tens of millions of dollars.

—Preceding unsigned comment added by 64.164.146.127 (talk • contribs)

  • Have you tried looking at the budget for the office of the president? You'll need to look in several places, though. Things like Air Force One and Marine One alone run to tens of millions of dollars a year. That and his use of the white house/executive branch staff are probably the two largest benefits, if you consider all the salaries added together. Night Gyr 00:55, 25 January 2006 (UTC)
  • Consider this, HMX-1, the squadron that operates Marine One, is about to spend six billion dollars to buy new helicopters. Their old helicopters lasted over 40 years, but that's still an average of almost 150 million per year. Night Gyr 00:59, 25 January 2006 (UTC)
Work-related travel and security expenses don't really count as "benefits". I don't consider my work-related travel part of my benefits, why should the President of the United States, who probably gets a lot less time off to sightsee on his travels than I do? --Robert Merkel 07:02, 25 January 2006 (UTC)
Agreed. He can't just rent out Air Force One and Marine One if he wants to, so they aren't really his. The Secret Service isn't just for their personal benefit, but also to protect the nation from the problems caused by assassinations, such as the need to declare war on whichever country or organization is thought to be responsible. Presidents have, however, basically rented out rooms of the White House, allowing contributors to their party or campaign to stay overnight in the Lincoln Bedroom, for example. Many in the US find this practice repulsive. So, distinguishing which perks are a form of compensation for the job and which are merely provided to aid in the performance of the job is a bit tricky. Perhaps the biggest perk is the resulting fame which can be turned into money by writing books, giving paid lectures, becoming a lobbyist, endorsing a product, etc. Fortunately no taxpayer dollars go into this. StuRat 14:03, 25 January 2006 (UTC)
Precisely. Hillary Clinton has to file income statements, including both her and Bill's earnings, as a Senator. Therefore, it's not hard to find out just how much Bill can earn. this article suggests he earned about 20 million dollars from his autobiography and his speaking engagements in 2004. A fit, healthy ex-President is unlikely to want for money. --Robert Merkel 05:13, 26 January 2006 (UTC)
Much more than he's worth, if you're referring to the current one. Cernen Xanthine Katrena 00:47, 27 January 2006 (UTC)

Hardly a neutral POV, person with three weird names... --66.82.9.42 22:18, 27 January 2006 (UTC)

You take me too literally, person with IP address. Perhaps I mean his...ah...actual monetary worth (i.e. not wealthy paper millionaire kind of worth). >_> Yeah, that must be it. Cernen Xanthine Katrena 00:21, 29 January 2006 (UTC)

[edit] the wild parrots of telegraph hill

I saw this movie and I loved it but I was so sad how he had to leave, where did he leave to because I've been on his site and he writes about seeing the old flock he was with? Just what happened after he left?

He was on a BBC radio programme some time back & I think he just got a house somewhere else in San Francisco (I think it was S F, I haven't seen the film). AllanHainey 08:53, 25 January 2006 (UTC)
Yes, it was San Francisco. There are other populations of wild parrots in the US, though, such as in New York City. It's amazing a tropical bird can survive there. StuRat 13:48, 25 January 2006 (UTC)
I have seen at least 5 other sites in San Francisco with Wild Parrots. Delores has at least 3 seperate sites south of Market Street. The guy was pictured recently at 24th and Delores streets, so my guess is he lives down 24th street in the Mission. The birds continue to parrot on telegraph hill.

[edit] Parrots

Where are red masked conures found? Is there a site which can tell me where all birds are found?

They seem to come from Ecuador, see Red-masked Parakeet. As for a site that might be able to tell you where all birds are found, there are a LOT of birds. This site is pretty extensive, but probably nowhere near complete. I'd venture a guess that you won't find such a site. -- Rick Block (talk) 04:38, 25 January 2006 (UTC)

[edit] Anastasia

Why was the royal family murdered? And also why is it that Anastasia or her sister could have survived?

See Nicholas II of Russia and Russian Revolution of 1917, and Grand Duchess Anastasia Nikolaevna of Russia. You probably would have found these quicker if you had used the search box on your left--Robert Merkel 06:58, 25 January 2006 (UTC)
  • I saw an episode of Mystery Hunters last weekend in which they investigated the possibility of Anastasia surviving. Basically, the woman who said she was Anastasia was a Polish factory worker (based on DNA evidence) which means the body of the Anastasia is still unaccounted for. Without a body, we can never be sure she actually died in the attack. - Mgm|(talk) 09:37, 25 January 2006 (UTC)
Those articles don't seem to answer the first question. The most logical answer, I'd say, is that after the feb revolution they were kept alive and thus a threat to the revolution. Any monarchist counterrevolutions would have litte point if there is no monarch to put on the throne. Since any relative could be used for that, the whole family had to be killed. Being born into nobility usually has some serious perks, more so in Tsarist Russia, where the alternatives were pretty lousy to put it mildly, but in this case it was rather tough luck. You may be innocent, but you can be used as an excuse for less innocent people, so you have to die. DirkvdM 13:03, 25 January 2006 (UTC)
Agreed. StuRat 13:50, 25 January 2006 (UTC)

[edit] Convert SVGs into GIF animation

Hi all, I'm planning to make a GIF animation from some SVGs, I am using ImageReady, but which does not recognize SVG format, Illustrator recognizes SVG format, but I do not know how to batch convert SVGs to file format ImageReady recognizes. I also tried convert tool comes with ImageMagick, but its SVG render engine seems buggy, and produced a corrupted rendering, so how can I do this job? — Yaohua2000 05:37, 25 January 2006 (UTC)

It would seem that my answer got deleted? You could try using Flash, or you could export the SVGs from Illustrator to EPS, then open them in Photoshop and export them to whatever format you want from there to ImageReady. Cernen Xanthine Katrena 19:38, 30 January 2006 (UTC)

[edit] british royal family

May i get the link for history of british family and also the relationship between russian and british family?How the disease in which blood production stop is called royal family disease?

See British Royal Family. There is a search box on the left hand side of every page that can help you find many more articles that may be of interest as well. Dismas|(talk) 10:13, 25 January 2006 (UTC)

See Hemophilia for reasons as to why it's called "The Royal disease". GeeJo (t) (c) • 10:59, 25 January 2006 (UTC)

And of course they will all have to die too (see Anastasia above). And them being inbred haemophiliacs, that shouldn't be too hard to acomplish. :) DirkvdM 20:48, 25 January 2006 (UTC)
Hemophilia has nothing to do with inbreeding. - Nunh-huh 22:13, 25 January 2006 (UTC)
Dirk, if that was Dutch humour, I don't much care for it. Sounds pretty insensitive to be appearing to advocate the killing, or the early death by disease, of a person just because they happen to be born into a royal family. Or maybe your English skills failed you this time. JackofOz 23:07, 25 January 2006 (UTC)
Hmmm, my humour is rather sharp at times, so maybe I should tone that down a bit (it has occasionally gotten a bit out of hand lately). But I thought that haemophilia (which is recessive and should therefore largely 'peter out') perpetuated in European royal families because they don't breed outside their own little circle. I don't know how this works, just something I picked up once (or twice). Is this some 'urban myth' then? DirkvdM 10:01, 26 January 2006 (UTC)
No, that's quite correct. It's a recessive disease, meaning you need two such chromosomes to exhibit symptoms. The bad chromosome is fairly uncommon in the general population, so having two is quite rare. However, it was carried by the European royal families, which are inbred with one another, thus greatly increasing the chances a person will be born with two such chromosomes and exhibit syptoms. It was just bad luck that the royal families had this particular bad gene to begin with. On the other hand, the chances that any one individual will have at least one chromosome for some recessive disease is fairly good. If their descendents all interbreed, that makes the chances their offspring will exhibit some recessive disorder much greater. On the other hand, if those which exhibit the disease either die or are prevented from reproducing, this results in purging the bad chromosomes from the gene pool far quicker than would happen without interbreeding.
The effects of the disease have been dramatic. The son of the last Tsar of Russia suffered from the disease, which caused his mother to allow Rasputin into the palace to calm him down with a type of hypnotism, which lowered BP and thus limited bleeding. This weirdo then gained influence over the Tsar and Tsarina, causing a backlash of public hatred against them. The Russian nobles saw what was happening and murdered Rasputin (after several nearly simultaneous attempts) but it was too late. The Russian Revolution followed shortly afterward, changing the world forever. StuRat 10:53, 26 January 2006 (UTC)
Actually, no, not quite. For haemophilia to be exhibited in a female, she must have two such alleles. However, the relevant gene is present on the X chromosome, so males only need one allele (the Y chromosome is much shorter and doesn't have the gene to override that on the X chromosome, where as women have two X chromosomes). Sam Korn (smoddy) 19:55, 30 January 2006 (UTC)
Heamophilia hasn't really been significant in the British royal family (or at least if there have been any occurrances they've kept it very quiet), probably more significant & well known to have affected the British is the disease nowadays attributed as causing "The Madness of George III" (filmed as The madness of King George as it was thought Americans would think it was a sequel to 2 films they hadn't seen)porphyria.

AllanHainey 13:41, 26 January 2006 (UTC)

[edit] Furlong

The furlong article states:

The city of Chicago's numbering system allots a measure of 800 to each mile. Logically, streets were subsequently laid out 8 to the mile. This means that every block in a typical Chicago neighborhood (in either North/South or East/West direction but rarely both) is precisely one furlong.

I grew up in Chicago and knew that there were 8 blocks to a mile but I can't figure out what that first sentence is supposed to mean. 800 what?? Dismas|(talk) 11:07, 25 January 2006 (UTC)

Just a wild ass guess from someone who's never been on the same continent as Chicago, but maybe house numbers? The spacing sounds a bit dense (one number every two meters), but I guess at least that way one wouldn't run out of numbers even in the most densely built areas. —Ilmari Karonen (talk) 13:51, 25 January 2006 (UTC)
That's my guess, too. The dense numbers might be needed for multi-family homes with multiple addresses. My Brother lives in such a home in Detroit, for example. Apartment buildings, on the other hand, generally have one address and then add an apartment number to distinguish between units. StuRat 14:18, 25 January 2006 (UTC)
It isn't quite as dense as you think, as odd numbers only are used on one side of the street and even numbers only on the other side of the street. Crypticfirefly 05:41, 26 January 2006 (UTC)
Note that in many cities (it sounds like Chicago is one such) street addresses increase by 100 per block. In the first block, buildings will be numbered starting with 1. In the next block, irrespective of the final building in the previous block, the first number will be 101. Grutness...wha? 07:51, 27 January 2006 (UTC)
Wow, that's useful. Here, addresses are always assigned continuously, and when you need more numbers, they use things like 3/A, 3/B etc. That way you only have to renumber a street only if it's extended on the end which previously had number 1. That can still cause some trouble at some places but of course it can't happen here in the city. – b_jonas 13:45, 28 January 2006 (UTC)

I thought I might just point out our article on House numbering, an article which is sort of relevant to this discussion! -- Chuq 03:14, 30 January 2006 (UTC)

[edit] Drinking Songs

Okiedokie. (So much for my wikibreak I suppose...the drinking song from the Aquafina commercials. Is that an actual drinking song or marketing hype based on one? In either case, what's the song's title (the actual song title or the song title it's based off of)? Bonus points for ITMS links. Even better if they're for the US store. --MPA

Are you talking about "Drink Drink Drink" by Mario Lanza? (Here's the iTMS link.) --Aaron 00:19, 26 January 2006 (UTC)
In the immortal words of Luigi (as heard on Mario Kart 64): "Bingo! Ho ho ho ho!" Thanks much for your assistance. 12.72.244.198 11:46, 26 January 2006 (UTC)

[edit] orchard

I searched orchard and it's actually a group of trees, but I always thought it was a flower...i'm an australian if that helps?

Maybe you're thinking of orchid. JackofOz 12:49, 25 January 2006 (UTC)
Agreed. Also note that an orchard is a group of the same type of fruit or nut trees. A general group of similar trees is called a "stand". StuRat 13:41, 25 January 2006 (UTC)
When it comes to spelling, being Australian doesn't usually help, in my experience. Oops, sorry. :) DirkvdM 13:05, 25 January 2006 (UTC)
Oi, I saw that. But actually you've got a point. I've been bemoaning the standards of education in this country for years - and spelling and grammar just don't seem to matter any more. I can't understand what the educators think they're going to achieve with that approach. Anyway, Happy (honorary) Australia Day. Cheers. JackofOz 22:56, 25 January 2006 (UTC)

[edit] Hoping to find A Niece To add her to the family web site

Hi Hope you can help, My half brother died in 1971 I never met him but he had A daughter who was about 17 at the time of his death, The family has A web site and would like to meet her an add her to our family tree,www.kycrossroads.com Her mom and Dad were seperated she lived with her Mother in Holtom City Texas, Her name was Sharon Lynn Burke I think her birth day is in August Have been told her Dad died on her birthday,1971, She should be about 51 possible married could be A grand mother she could be looking for her family, I know how that feels becaust I just found the family 6 months ago We would love to let her know she has A loving family who cares about her.Hope you can help we will be forever thankful, I am happy thare people like you who make the impossible happen, William Burke //Montgomery RR 2 Box 800 Point Pleasant Wv. 25550

Googling her name comes up with this picture. Could that be her? David Sneek 15:15, 25 January 2006 (UTC)
In the USA, the Salvation Army has a program to help families get re-united. When people move from one snail mail address to another, they can file a change-of-snail-mail-address with the US Post Office. Because junk mail is a major source of income for the post office, they put this stuff on computer so the junk mail people can access it and find the new snail mail addresses for their targets. I do not know if ordinary people can access this stuff, and I do not know how long the post office has been doing it. User:AlMac|(talk) 04:17, 26 January 2006 (UTC)
So who's going to snail mail this guy and tell him what you've found? {/end sarcasm}   freshgavin TALK    06:31, 27 January 2006 (UTC)

[edit] coping with work pressure at college

What do you mean ? You work and go to college and the work load makes college difficult ? StuRat 16:28, 25 January 2006 (UTC)

You think college is pressure? You will probably for the rest of your life think it the most relaxed time you ever had as a grown up. alteripse 22:02, 25 January 2006 (UTC)

[edit] Why do British people have bad teeth and smell funny?

I never noticed that. David Sneek 15:26, 25 January 2006 (UTC)
It's a Ethnic stereotype. CambridgeBayWeather (Talk) 16:21, 25 January 2006 (UTC)

Us Brits have sterotypes of other people, too. Heh heh! KILO-LIMA 16:42, 25 January 2006 (UTC)

It's odd people think that, because braces are free for kids on the NHS and we even have a town called Bath! How much cleaner could we get‽ smurrayinchester(User), (Talk) 19:25, 25 January 2006 (UTC)

BRITISH PEOPLE SMELL BAD BECAUSE THEY DONT TAKE SHOWERS, THEY HAVE BAD TEETH BECAUSE THEY DONT BRUSH THEM.

I'm afraid that sounds like original research. Can you find some sources to back it up, or, failing that, suitly emphazi? smurrayinchester(User), (Talk) 20:29, 25 January 2006 (UTC)
Strange thing to say considering the toothbrush article says that it was an englishman who invented it. My guess is that this schoolboy style insult was written by some inbred redneck who's never even seen a Brit let alone smelt their breath, lol!--Goshawk 20:54, 25 January 2006 (UTC)
Well, on the BBC (the British Broadcasting Corporation!) I heard that just a few decades ago the Brits (or more specifically English, I believe) bathed on average once a week. Never mind showering, showers probably didn't even exist then in England. Then again, showering too often, and especially when you use soap, is addictive. The body will adapt and get smelly quicker, so you have to bathe again sooner, etc. So they may not have smelled that bad. Anyway, what's bad? Not bathing makes you smell of yourself. Getting rid of that will make you alienate from yourself. Smell is a very potent mood-determinant. So losing your smell is like losing yourself. And to top this off, if everyone smelled like that, we wouldn't notice. So it's really everyone else who've got it wrong. (especially in the US, where it seems people bathe more than once a day and put on a 'clean' shirt every day). DirkvdM 21:03, 25 January 2006 (UTC)
I thought by 'Bad Teeth' that they meant Austin Powers style malocclusions. That seems to be a typical part of the 'Great British Stereotype'. smurrayinchester(User), (Talk) 22:08, 25 January 2006 (UTC)
Actually there is some historical evidence that Continental travellers in the 16th and 17th centuries were appalled at how seldom English people had a proper bath. Once a year or some such. If they got a bit whiffy, they just put on some lavender water, but they didnt think of having a bath. So maybe its a stereotype which started among the early non-English settlers in North America. Jameswilson 00:09, 26 January 2006 (UTC)
Of course, if we go back far enough, pretty much nobody anywhere bathed regularly. I would have guessed that was because the cost of soap, a bathtub, and fuel to heat the water was beyond most people then. However, rich people bathed infrequently, too. I'm not sure why they preferred to stink rather than bathe. StuRat 10:36, 26 January 2006 (UTC)
I seem to recall reading that drinking tea can discolor teeth worse than coffee or smoking. But they don't smell - that's your upper lip. KWH
Hmm, then perhaps the accumulation of chemicals there explains why the British have bad breath and why it's always so stiff (the British upper lip, that is). Confusing Manifestation 15:54, 26 January 2006 (UTC)
The British mother of a school friend of mine had bad teeth, she remarked once that it was the result of poor nutrition during WWII when she was growing up. Crypticfirefly 05:36, 26 January 2006 (UTC)

I didn't think it was British people that smelled bad. I thought that was a stereotype of the French. Actually, I used to live in a Continental country (not France), and there clearly was a major issue with smell among some people. Perhaps one out of 10 natives bathed maybe once a week. So if you got on a crowded bus, the chances are, it would smell. Why do they take fewer showers than Americans? No idea. Perhaps it's because utilities and deodorant are expensive on their wages. More likely, no one has ever told them that they smell bad. -- Mwalcoff 23:12, 26 January 2006 (UTC)

StuRat, I think it had less to with cost and more to do with the idea that bathing was dangerous, but again that could just be an myth. CambridgeBayWeather (Talk) 11:53, 27 January 2006 (UTC)

[edit] The Movie Fargo...

I just took a trip to Minneapolis and I was expecting them to talk like the people in Fargo. They sound nothing like the movie???

"Oh, ya, ya, well, that's not quite close enough now, dontcha know ?" The distance between those two cities is greater than that between New York City and Boston, and you wouldn't expect the same accent in those two cities, "now wouldja now ?" StuRat 16:19, 25 January 2006 (UTC)
But the movie Fargo isn't set in Fargo, North Dakota, it's set in Brainerd, Minnesota. User:Zoe|(talk) 16:30, 25 January 2006 (UTC)

The movie Fargo is a stereotype. They do not talk like that.

They really talk like the folks on Garrison Keillor's Prairie Home Companion, if you want to hear the accent. alteripse 22:00, 25 January 2006 (UTC)

Some people there really do talk like that. I have an e-mail friend in Sioux Falls, South Dakota who sort of has the accent. Also, the distance matters less in the Great Plains than the Northeast, since it's a matter of population density more than area, but the distance between Fargo and Minneapolis still matters nonetheless. Yeltensic42.618 don't panic 23:32, 25 January 2006 (UTC)

The isolation of an area is the main factor. If people from City X and City Y regularly moved to each other's cities, I would expect a similar accent in both. If they don't, then I wouldn't expect the same accent. StuRat 01:08, 26 January 2006 (UTC)
Exactly. And because the Northeast is more densely populated, with New York and Boston being part of a continuous urban belt (BosWash), there is likely more travel between them than between Fargo and Minneapolis. Yeltensic42.618 don't panic 01:17, 26 January 2006 (UTC)
  • And whoops, there goes your theory, since there are much larger differences in accents between 40 mile distances between Boston and Washington than between 200 mile distances in the north central plains. alteripse 02:48, 26 January 2006 (UTC)
  • I don't believe that a densely populated area in between two cities assures heavy travel between them. StuRat 04:16, 26 January 2006 (UTC)
  • Actually, come to think of it the high population density could mean less travel between the two cities, as each small area is more self-sufficient (ie Bostonians don't have to go to New York to buy anything). Yeltensic42.618 don't panic 06:58, 26 January 2006 (UTC)
  • But actually, I'm pretty certain I've read that it has to do with the population density (that's why cities like New York and London have different accents within the city). So it probably has little to do with people moving between the two cities. In retrospect, my post about the "whoops theory" was a pretty glaring error, whether or not the "moving theory" is right. I need to stop posting while listening to music. Yeltensic42.618 don't panic 06:58, 26 January 2006 (UTC)

According to our Fargo article:

StuRat 01:15, 26 January 2006 (UTC)

It also varies from area to area. In some parts of Minnesota and the Dakotas, the accent many people have isn't far off from the movie; in other areas it is entirely different. Yeltensic42.618 don't panic 01:18, 26 January 2006 (UTC)

I used to have a friend from northern Minnesota, where Fargo takes place. She did sound somewhat like the people in the movie. She told me there really are two Minnesotas: the southern, agricultural one and the northern one where all the lakes are. -- Mwalcoff 23:05, 26 January 2006 (UTC)
Some people in northern MN sound like the people in the movie. Some people sound like "generic Americans". You might also meet people with Fargo-like accents in Minneapolis, and other areas around the state, in part because the accent isn't confined to the north and in part because plenty of people move around in the state. Mwalcoff's friend is basically right in terms of geography, but that division doesn't really separate the people, and especially not their accents. kmccoy (talk) 02:10, 1 February 2006 (UTC)

[edit] Australians

Going on from the question above about British people. Where does the Ethnic stereotype about Australians wearing large floppy hats with corks on strings come from? And if there is even a minor bit of truth in it why would anyone do that? Please ensure that you suitly emphazi your answer. Thanks. CambridgeBayWeather (Talk) 16:48, 25 January 2006 (UTC)

Could be due to the incorporation of the Slouch hat in the Aussie military uniform. --BluePlatypus 17:23, 25 January 2006 (UTC)
Aaargh! BluePlatypus, you're no longer red, you've actually turned blue! And now that I've checked your user page to see what happened you've turned purple! Can you do a rainbow? DirkvdM 21:11, 25 January 2006 (UTC)
Shouldn't have clicked it! :) For the record, I have no relation to the user PurplePlatypus. --BluePlatypus 23:00, 25 January 2006 (UTC)
The corks are supposedly a mechanical insect repellent, meant to keep flies off the face. Whether this actually works, and whether any Australians actually wear such hats, I don't know. —Charles P.  (Mirv) 18:26, 25 January 2006 (UTC)

I've never seen anyone wear those hats, not even in Alice Springs or on farms. Maybe they used to, I don't know. --Vzzbx]

it used to be (and maybe still is) a British stereotype. They were featured in Monty Pythons Flying Circus at least once. I live in the Arctic and we have a lot of mosquitoes in the summer perhaps I should try it. Even it it doesn't work, it should be fun drinking the wine to get the corks. Thanks for the replys. 02:35, 26 January 2006 (UTC)
The only people you *ever* see wearing those hats are backpackers from overseas. Farmers certainly don't, though many sometimes wear the hats without the hanging corks (though more probably just wear baseball caps advertising John Deere tractors or the like).
That said, in many parts of Australia the flies are extremely annoying at some times of the year. "The Great Australian Salute" is a ironic commentary on the regular need to wave flies away from your face. --Robert Merkel 05:06, 26 January 2006 (UTC)

My favorite Aussie TV ad was for Fosters beer...It started with two men on a porch drinking Fosters, when one's wife comes out, bitching incessantly, followed by a cloud of flies. After she leaves, this exchange takes place between the two men:

"Why do you put up with that, mate ?"

"She's got her good points, at least she keeps the flies offa me beer."

StuRat 10:27, 26 January 2006 (UTC)

[edit] Wallace Brothers Circus

> Hi, > I'm trying to locate anyone that may have historical records from the Wallace > Brothers Circus around 1940. My grandparents used to have a knife throwing and > whip act. Their names were Robert Walter and Pearl Collins. Their show names > were Texas Slim and Montana Nell. My mother was in the act also as a horse > back trick rider and rifle sharp shooter. Her show name was Little Miss Peggy. > I have my mothers autograph book with a lot of famous names in it such as Lee > Powell, the original silver screen lone ranger. His wife Norma signed the book > also. Also Clyde and Harriett Beatty signed the book. > Current day champion knife thrower and maker Joe Darrah is nominating my > grandparents into The International Knife Throwers Hall of Fame in Austin, Tx > next Labor Day weekend. > My question is, can you tell me how to get in contact with anyone from the > Wallace Brothers Circus to ask them if they have any knowledge or records of > my mother and grandparents performing for them in the summer of 1940.. > Thank you for your time on this. > Respectively, > Chuck Engel > Daytona Beach, Fl

Perhaps try the Circus World Museum's Robert L. Parkinson Library and Research Center. Rmhermen 19:51, 25 January 2006 (UTC)

First, your formattting, using ">" at the front of each line, doesn't really work in Wikipedia. Now, as for circuses in the US, they have been in a period of decline for many decades now, so only a few remain. Smaller circuses, like the one you mentioned, are likely defunct. The reasons for this decline include:

  • Competition from new forms of entertainment, like TV, video games, and the Internet.
  • Popular feeling that forcing animals to do tricks is unethical, and they are best viewed in their natural habitat, engaging in natural behaviour, or as close as we can get in a zoo or wildlife santuary.
  • Concern that animals may be abused in a circus.
  • Reduced availability and increased cost for exotic animals like lions and elephants.
  • Popular feeling that looking at deformed or diseased people for entertainment is unethical. People still do this, but prefer to do it in the privacy of their own home, say by watching the Jerry Springer Show.
  • Increased skepticism over the honesty of associated carnival games has reduced revenue.

StuRat 00:59, 26 January 2006 (UTC)

[edit] Ovaltine

In your article about Ovaltine, you mention Captain Midnight; but not "The Lone Ranger." I seem to remember Ovaltine mentioned in the series. I also remember sending in an Ovaltine label and 10/25 cents for a pedameter. Am I wrong/correct??????

You are correct and you are dating yourself. See here and follow the link to "The Premiums". CambridgeBayWeather (Talk) 02:56, 26 January 2006 (UTC)
Sorry I read that backwards. This mentions the "Lone Ranger" but this mentions "Tales of the Texas Rangers". CambridgeBayWeather (Talk) 03:04, 26 January 2006 (UTC)

[edit] psp and digital cameras

digital cameras savecard work with psp?????

Which Playstation Portable? Or is that a stupid question? DirkvdM 21:18, 25 January 2006 (UTC)

i was talking about playstation portable

Most cameras use SD cards, some use CF cards. Sony cameras use a memory stick; I'm pretty sure the "savecards" from a Sony camera will work with a PSP. Noone else's will. See Memory Stick.

Yeah, Sony is the only company using memory sticks and they're rather pushy about it, so it makes sense the playstation only uses memory sticks (and umd's - also by Sony). See the frame in PlayStation Portable (could have done that yourself!).
By the way, I thought that CF cards were the most popular. Am I out of date or is this a regional difference? I'm from the Netherlands. DirkvdM 10:13, 26 January 2006 (UTC)
Depends, Dirk. At the photography studio I work at, they live on Compact Flash. My grandmother uses SecureDigital, and so did I for a time (with my color palm that ended up dying a very messy death). Anyone with Sony products uses Memory Sticks; most Fuji devices rely on XD cards, which are the same width as an SD card but are half as long (so if you tried to use it in an SD slot, you'd lose it...). For data transfer, most people will use a thumb drive. I use a combination of a thumb drive and an SD card just to be a prick, but for digital images...eh, I've confused myself. To put it simply: CF is very popular, and is generally accepted as the de facto image storage thingy. (Don't quote me on that--it's strictly POV.) 12.72.244.198 11:53, 26 January 2006 (UTC)
How does one quote an anon? "Hey, have you heard what 12.72.244.198 said the other day?" :) DirkvdM 21:50, 26 January 2006 (UTC)
By suitly emphazi'ing that 12.72.244.198 is me. Cernen Xanthine Katrena 07:48, 27 January 2006 (UTC)

[edit] need title of this song.

what is the title of this song in this video? : http://thatvideosite.com/view/1520.html -chris

nevermind. i found it. the title is 'behind' by lacquer. -chris

[edit] need name of chinese singer.

In my last trip to China, i noticed that there was a cover from modern talking´s brother louie wich was performed by a chinese girl, Does anybody know the name of the girl? --blackman 23:26, 25 January 2006 (UTC)

She's probably one of the girls in this category Category:Chinese singers.   freshgavin TALK    06:27, 27 January 2006 (UTC)
I need the exact name, but thanks anyway for your help --blackman 15:00, 27 January 2006 (UTC)

[edit] January 26

[edit] croisa a new country

hello wikipedians i was watching an episode of the usa tv show monk. monk was investigating a murder in which a movie star who was believed to have died in the late 1960`s may have faked his own death. monk was looking at what was supposed to be the movie stars hair brush it said made in croisa.but monk said croisa is a new country and that it did not exist until 1992 is that true. thanks and just in case you are wondering iam not doing my homework.

I think you mean Croatia, which formed from the former Yugoslavia at about that time. StuRat 00:45, 26 January 2006 (UTC)


[edit] american pov of brazil

why americans think that brazilians are sluts, since they aren't?? A Friend of my friend travelled to USA and said that there he had easy sex with womans that are very beatiful?

For similar reasons certain parts of the developing world think that all Western women are sluts, as you so bluntly put it. "They" get a very distorted picture from portrayals in the media, both journalistic and fictional, and also from the tourist places they tend to visit. Their mental picture of Brazil probably starts at the scantily clad women on the beaches of Rio de Janeiro, and ends with the Carnival.
That said, the USA is a very large and diverse country. Don't assume because *some* Americans have an unrealistic view of your country, that all of them do. And don't think you're immune to unrealistic views about other countries. I work at a university in Australia. Of all the different sporting clubs on my campus (one for each sport, like tennis, the different sorts of football, and so on) which one do you think is the biggest? --Robert Merkel 05:01, 26 January 2006 (UTC)
Kangaroo racing? :)
Indeed, where I come from (Netherlands, but I'm not sure if that is the cause), there is some preconception about Brazilian women being rather 'loose' (mostly to do with carnaval and strings on beaches), but that is largely recognised as a preconception. There is, however, also the (stronger?) notion that girls in the US are easy lays. This is based more on actual experience from people who have been there. DirkvdM 10:20, 26 January 2006 (UTC)
Since you're in Europe, that might just be because American women are particularly attracted to European men, so it's easy for them to score when they come over here. In the U.S., there's also a notion that European girls are sluts. Maybe this is a recurring pattern, that people think women in other countries are sluts? Yeltensic42.618 don't panic 16:01, 26 January 2006 (UTC)
I'm a Brazilian and I must admit these views are actually very realistic and valid. It's one of the reasons I loathe this place. ☢ Ҡieff⌇↯ 10:37, 26 January 2006 (UTC)
As to the biggest sporting club, it's actually the skiing and snowboarding club. And, yes, they do go skiing and snowboarding. On actual snow (even if it is often a little slushy). In Australia.  :)--Robert Merkel 12:44, 26 January 2006 (UTC)
You have seen how little is worn on the beach in Brazil, no? --Nelson Ricardo 18:22, 26 January 2006 (UTC)
  • People see what they want to see in either case. As for the question of people thinking foreign women are more lacivious than their own country, yes, it's a quite common phenomena that goes waaaay back. There are books from the Middle Ages about this sort of thing. And of course people in "primitive" societies are usually at the top of the list. --Fastfission 19:57, 1 February 2006 (UTC)

[edit] First Article on Wikipedia

What was the first article ever on Wikipedia. When was it submitted?

Thanks, Yeow

See History of Wikipedia. --Robert Merkel 04:47, 26 January 2006 (UTC)
The first article was UuU (now redirects to U), created at 20:08, 16 January 2001.

[edit] Gabrielle Delacour

Angelica Mandy is an actress best known for playing Gabrielle Delacour in Harry Potter and the Goblet of Fire.

I would just like to know where Angelica Mandy was born?

How is the question related to the title ? StuRat 05:26, 26 January 2006 (UTC)
Uh... Angelica Mandy is the actress who played Gabrielle Delacour? Couldn't find anything on where she was born, though. Too many noise from Harry Potter fancruft. ☢ Ҡieff⌇↯ 08:25, 26 January 2006 (UTC)
For StuRat's question, see Angelica Mandy. For the original poster's question, I have no idea. --Anonymous, 08:23 UTC, January 26.
Ok, I added that clarification to the question and struck out my question. StuRat 10:05, 26 January 2006 (UTC)

She's Brittish. The fansites don't know her hometown. This site [57] was the better of them and has an email address if you want to contact them and ask. -LambaJan 00:08, 29 January 2006 (UTC)

  • According to Daringly Divine, her mother is an acupuncturist. A Google came up with the name of a Wendy Mandy who is based in London see [58]

Based on this, it is most likely that she was born in London. Capitalistroadster 05:52, 1 February 2006 (UTC)

[edit] Paula Deen Show

Can anyone help me find the name of the music (theme) for the Paula Deen show.

Thank You M. Kessler [e-mail address removed]

[edit] blue ribbon vs. red ribbon to indicate first place

I have always understood that to win the blue ribbon meant to win first place, and that the red ribbon was awarded for second, yet in the U.K. and in the Commomwealth countries this custom is often reversed. Can anyone explain the origin of this reversal and perhaps clarify which order (blue-red vs. red-blue) should win by virtue of priority?

Robert Dietz

I looked around and couldn't find anything. It might be related to military history. Or perhaps a Brit was giving an American a second place award, but he just couldn't be second place! lol. -LambaJan 00:30, 29 January 2006 (UTC)

[edit] WW2 era brick markings

hi can anyone tell me what these signs mean on a brick taken out at 36ft level.this was the site of a japanese army camp in 1945 and is beside the h jap hose of officers quarters.sorry i cant scan it in but it has the letter p inside the shape of a diamond and the letter c inside the shape of another diamond and repeated inside the next shape of a diamond

Where did you find the bricks ? StuRat 10:01, 26 January 2006 (UTC)
At the site of a Japanese army camp. It's more than likely that it's just the stamp of the company that manufactured the bricks. -LambaJan 23:45, 28 January 2006 (UTC)

[edit] A question about a mysterious (?) holiday for Canada.

On a trip to Barcelona , Spain , in November - December of 2000 , I bought a great Barcelona calendar for 2001 to bring home to Vancouver with me. I've kept it , to verify the content of my question , which I haven't looked into for quite awhile . On the calendar , April 28 is listed as being 'National Day of Mounthing' for .....Canada ! Does anyone have any idea what this might be ? Thanks .

Seems like a misspelling (sp? :P ).. Since 1991, April 28 has been the "National Day of Mourning for Killed and Injured Workers". See here, here, or here. -- AlbinoMonkey (Talk) 13:55, 26 January 2006 (UTC)
Note that other cultures may not understand the relative importance of holidays in Canada. So, they may not know that Victoria Day is more important than the "National Day of Mourning for Killed and Injured Workers", for example, and may give them equal importance on the calendar. StuRat 14:37, 26 January 2006 (UTC)

[edit] Dangling doorway thing

You know they have these dangly curtain-esque things in doorways, like in hippies' houses and others, where kinda braids hang down from the ceiling of the doorway, and you can walk through these dangly braids into the next door, and all the dangly braids get in your mouth and stuff, and make a jiggling sound. But they also prevent you from seeing into the room throught the doorway (at least, the top half). This is the best description I can come up with for them...What are those things called? Thanks very much in advance -WF--Dumbelievable 11:19, 26 January 2006 (UTC)

They're apparently called door beads or more generally beaded curtains. No, we don't seem to have an article on either. —Ilmari Karonen (talk) 12:34, 26 January 2006 (UTC)
I wonder if they spread disease, being that they seem to hit everyone in the face. StuRat 14:20, 26 January 2006 (UTC)
I think you're actually meant to spread them with your hands before stepping through. I mean, you can open an ordinary door by bumping your face into it, too, but why would you want to? —Ilmari Karonen (talk) 18:56, 26 January 2006 (UTC)
As I recall, that's easier said than done. If you allow too much slack in any of the bead strands they will hang down in your face, anyway. Also, they are rather slippery and it's hard to hold all the strands at the same time. Tying the strands together at both sides then ducking down thru the opening might be the only way to be sure you won't get hit in the face. They really are quite annoying. StuRat 20:52, 26 January 2006 (UTC)
Fold your hands as in prayer (namaste), slip the folded hands between any convenient pair of strands, spread your hands apart, and walk through. Jackrepenning (talk) 22:07, 13 December 2007 (UTC)

[edit] Sheila Durrant (née Argyle)

Does anyone know a Sheila Durrant living near St Ives, Cornwall, UK.

I used to know her in my younger days and remember her wedding to Ken (late 60s/early 70s) but have since lost touch.

Would just like to know that she's well and if they ever had a family.

Thank you JBS

Sorry, but it's unlikely that a Wikipedia Reference Desk contributor will know your old friend directly. There are websites that specialise in reuniting old school friends and the like; maybe you can try one of those. --Robert Merkel 12:41, 26 January 2006 (UTC)

[edit] history of champagne glass

Does anyone know the history of the original champagne glass? My understanding is that it was not fluted but rather shallow and supported by a stem approximately 4 inches in height. I am also led to believe that it was formed by the shape of Josephine's breast at the request of Napolean.

Dave W.

  • From what I've heard, the coupe glass as it's called, wasn't originally designed for champagne. Which makes sense because it's a pretty lousy glass for it. (Actually, it's quite likely the worst possible design for a champagne glass) Which is why they're rarely used today. As for the breast-story, that seems to be a myth which has gone around in several versions. --BluePlatypus 14:59, 26 January 2006 (UTC)
    • More commonly called a champagne flute. KILO-LIMA 18:23, 26 January 2006 (UTC)
      • No, a champagne coupe is a wide mouthed shallow glass shaped vaguely similar to the object of discussion. One of those shaped like a champagne flute would be odd indeed. Rmhermen 20:29, 26 January 2006 (UTC)
  • ISTR that you get drunk more easily drinking champagne from a flute glass than from a coupe glass - or is that another myth? Grutness...wha? 08:00, 27 January 2006 (UTC)

[edit] VHS Tapes

In the U.S., Target Stores used to sell 9 hour VHS Tapes, but now i can't find them there anymore. Any ideas why these were taken off the market?

VHS tapes in general are being phased out in favor of DVDs. Less popular VHS tapes will be the first to go. I am guessing 9 hour VHS tapes might be less popular because they offer lower quality images ? StuRat 14:14, 26 January 2006 (UTC)
I'm also guessing these are actually 4½ hour tapes, marketted as "9 hour" because many VCRs can record on "Long Play", using half the tape in exchange for a reduction in quality. 4 hour tapes aren't actually all that uncommon (at least not in the UK) although most are 3 hour - which if I'm right could equally be called "6 hour". - IMSoP 15:46, 26 January 2006 (UTC)
The reason for the lower popularity and gradual disappearance of 4½-hour/"9-hour" tapes is that the only way for the manufacturer to get that much tape into the casing is to use thinner tape than is used in all other sizes. Not only does that cause a reduced-quality image on-screen, but it also makes such tapes much more likely to snap apart during normal wear and tear. When that happens, you'll lose access to whatever you recorded on that tape at best; at worst, the tape will spin out inside your VCR and gum up the entire player, possibly to the point where the VCR will no longer function. Obviously, this sort of outcome is not what most tape manufacturers like, because it just increases the likelihood that somebody will sue them for selling "junk tapes" that ruined their player. Between that and the fact that people stopped buying them once they realized you could only play them back a certain number of times before the already-bad image quality got even worse, it pretty much doomed that tape size. (The exact same thing has happened with audio cassettes; they make (or used to make, anyway ... who knows these days) cassettes with something like 240 minutes of recording time, and they did it the same way, by using thinner tape. The resulting problems were identical.) --Aaron 21:12, 26 January 2006 (UTC)
Well, of course you need not lose whatever was on the tape because there is such a thing as sticky tape. :) Does this also go for 4 hour tapes? Because that's the standard length I use. Haven't noticed any problem with it yet and my oldest tapes are about 10 years old. Also, quality-wise the most important thing would have been if VHS had not become the standard. Either Betamax or Video 2000, but not VHS. I've tested it against Betamax (two new VHS recorders versus two very old Betamaxes), and the difference was huge. VHS was crap by the 3rd generation copy, while Betamax was still better than that by the 5th generation, if I remember correctly. DirkvdM 21:44, 26 January 2006 (UTC)
To clarify IMSoP's comment, VHS VCRs have three speeds, SP (short play), LP (long play), and EP or SLP (extended or super-long play). I believe most machines record at the fast and slow speeds only, but play back all three. When we speak of a 9-hour tape we mean its length at EP (SLP); it would be 3 hours at SP or 6 hours at LP. 8 and 10-hour tapes (at EP (SLP)) also exist, but I don't know what lengths are currently marketed. The original poster should try other stores or contact a tape manufacturer to see what is now available. --Anonymous, 03:15 UTC, January 27.

[edit] what is meant by a graded river?

Try one of the answers here. CambridgeBayWeather (Talk) 15:03, 26 January 2006 (UTC)

[edit] DNA

Deoxyribonucleic acid (DNA) is a nucleic acid that contains the genetic instructions specifying the biological development of all cellular forms of life. See DNA. --Optichan 15:55, 26 January 2006 (UTC)

[edit] Linux crashes!?

I'm used to msWindows crashing (often more than once a day), which is why I changed to (Suse) Linux about a year ago. Which went ok until today. I wanted to continue a multisession dvd+r with K3b, but didn't see any 'import' or such, so I thought, ah well, just 'start a new dvd project' and drag a bunch of files in the 'project-frame' and see what happens. Seemed to go ok. The burning finished with an 'completed successfully' message and the dvd was ejected. I pushed it in again to see what exactly had happened and then everything froze. Ctrl-Alt-Del didn't work either (didn't even know that had a function under Linux, but it has always been my first reaction under msWindows, so I did it automatically). And I couldn't eject the dvd either. Restarting only worked if I removed the dvd while the computer restarted. But then when I tried the dvd again, Linux froze again. The whole OS, not just one application (although even that rarely happens, but it never crashes Linux). Of course, without using the dvd there's no problem, but I'd still like to know what happened. Funny thing is, msWindows (98) can read the dvd (although it gives the wrong total size as 2 GB when it's really about 4 GB). But it doesn't show any of the files (photos) I had added (I thought).

While I'm at it (though I doubt if this has anything to do with it). About a month ago I had the problem that Linux wouldn't start because of a problem with fschk (I think that's what it's called). I solved that by restarting with 'shutdown -f now', which skips the file system check. That's merely a workaround and I've been too lazy to look into it, but can it cause any problems (in the long run)? DirkvdM 15:47, 26 January 2006 (UTC)

Hmm.. seems like there may be problems with that DVD, and that perhaps your desktop software is buggy in how it's handling it. Are you sure the whole system froze? Could you switch to a virtual terminal (e.g. Ctrl-Alt-F2) and kill the offending program from there? Or if X Windows was freezing, you could try Ctrl-Alt-Backspace (which is usually configured to kill X immediately). Not being able to eject the DVD is normal, because the OS locks the drive while it's mounted, you need to unmount it first ("umount /media/cdrecorder" or wherever your mountpoint is). Of course, despite what some say, sometimes Linux does actually crash. I've seen it. (although it's mostly been attributable to flakey hardware) As for when Linux has problems with the fsck on start, it'll usually dump you in a command-line where you can run it manually. That usually fixes stuff, and it'll boot normally the next time. In the long run, you should of course run fsck regularily, but the kernel will usually do that for you on boot if a certain number of days has elapsed since the last check. --BluePlatypus 17:11, 26 January 2006 (UTC)
Run fsck, Dirk...it's never a good idea to not do that. And yeah, Blue's right; rarely doth Linux crasheth, tho when it doth, the mess of destruction it typically leaves in its wake is formidiable. (At least, that's always been my experience...) Cernen Xanthine Katrena 17:48, 26 January 2006 (UTC)
  • This is why it's best just to stick with Windows. KILO-LIMA 18:24, 26 January 2006 (UTC)
How long have you been waiting for an opportunity to say that? :) Like I said, msWindows crashes on me almost every time (I rarely shut down normally). Compared to that, one (avoidable) crash per year is hardly a problem. And don't start with XP because that's even worse - after a few months it even completely died on me and refuses to restart (in any mode). Good thing I never paid for it.
It seems like it's not just X Windows. Neither Ctrl-Alt-Backspace nor Ctrl-Alt-F2 had any effect. Ah well, I'll just do the dvd again and next time figure out how to continue a session properly. One silly question, though. Once I'm in a terminal, how do I start X Windows up again?
But if fsck is really important I want to know about that. When I run that (either during startup or after it in a terminal), I get "dev/sda5 mounted with write permission, cannot check it. Run manually." But I thought I was running it manually. sda5 is where the system resides (forgot about that, mounted it in a new mountpoint and was surprised to find the root dir there - took me a minute figure out what I was looking at. That's how little I know about Linux :) ). DirkvdM 20:58, 26 January 2006 (UTC)
Omigod, a Linux question I know the answer for! You need to either boot to a rescue disk (and I don't know how to make one, so don't even think about asking), or turn your system off inappropriately (I prefer flipping the master switch on the power supply; if yours doesn't have one, turn off the power strip instead). Turn it back on; more recent versions of Linux's varying flavors will ask you the question, "System was not unmounted cleanly -- Press y within 5 seconds to force file system check." When you see it, slam on the Y key as hard as you can, then go make yourself a cup of coffee (depending on how big your hard drive is, you might need two or three ^_~). You could run fsck on a mounted filesystem if you want, but logic dictates that if an application tells you "NO" then you should listen to it. fscking a mounted filesystem will more than likely cause its boyfriend to become jealous--er...I mean...it could potentially damage it. Cernen Xanthine Katrena 07:55, 27 January 2006 (UTC)

[edit] wine

What is a well known wine of California--195.92.67.75 16:22, 26 January 2006 (UTC)

Paul Masson is nice. I like the rose. Or anything from Napa Valley. Proto t c 16:55, 26 January 2006 (UTC)
You might try starting at wine, or California. Failing that, try using the search function. From yor other questions, I should also point out that you should do your own homework. --GraemeL (talk) 16:56, 26 January 2006 (UTC)
"Ripple is the National wine of Watts" - Fred Stanford

[edit] american dancer

Name an american dancer and choreographer with her own well known dance company --195.92.67.75 16:28, 26 January 2006 (UTC)

Paula Abdul. Proto t c 16:48, 26 January 2006 (UTC)
If it's not just about live people, Martha Graham would also qualify. JackofOz 22:46, 26 January 2006 (UTC)

[edit] halloween

Other than halloween what is the name of the night earlier in the year when witches celebrate --195.92.67.75 16:30, 26 January 2006 (UTC)

If you mean Wiccans, then Imbolc, Beltane, Midsummer...The one that I can't spell that starts with Ludh. 16:38, 26 January 2006 (UTC)

Lunasadh (or Lughnasa, depending on where you are). Wicca celebrates the four stations and passes of the sun (Midsummer's Day, Midwinter's Day, and the spring and autumn equinoxes), plus Imbolc (first point of spring - February 1 in the northern hemisphere), Beltane (May 1, sometimes simply known as May Day), Lughnasa (August 1) and Samhain (November 1). Of these, the two most important are Beltane (probably the answer you're looking for) and Samhain (which a lot of people who should know better think of as being the same as Hallowe'en)

Saying "Witches celebrate Hallowe'en" isn't really correct. Hallowe'en is actually an old Christian day (literally "Hallow E'en" - the evening before All Hallows - i.e., All Saint's Day). It occurs close to the start of a far earlier pagan celebration that lasted for an entire week, commemorating the beginning of winter and the spirits of those who died during the year. This started on the night before Samhain (usually pronounced Sowain, BTW) with a welcoming in of the dead with treats or trying to trick them into leaving the house (this is the origin of trick or treat, and also the Mexican Dia del Muerte). The dead were regarded as honoured guests for a week, then sent off to eternity with a big feast and bonfire (it's no coincidence that many nortehrn European countries traditionally had bonfire, often with a symbolic sacrifice of an effigy, about a week into November. The most famous is Britain's "Guy Fawke's night"... also see the movie "The wicker man" for further reference). The effigy, BTW, was intended as an offering to the sun, to speedy it on its journey back to warmth, and therefore to hurry the start of speing weather.

Hope that helps :) Grutness...wha? 08:22, 27 January 2006 (UTC)

Around here (Ohio) Wiccans and related folks like to have an "All Snakes Day" celebration on what most others call "Saint Patrick's Day." This is in reference to them being the "snakes" that St. Patrick "chased" out of Ireland. -LambaJan 18:52, 29 January 2006 (UTC)

[edit] plant life

What is the name of a frozen landscape where mosses and lichens are a typical plant life --195.92.67.75 16:33, 26 January 2006 (UTC)

Tundra. Proto t c 17:00, 26 January 2006 (UTC)

[edit] Food

What is a familiar large Italian sausage --195.92.67.75 16:35, 26 January 2006 (UTC)

Mussolini? Cernen Xanthine Katrena 17:49, 26 January 2006 (UTC)
Salami. —Charles P._(Mirv) 18:38, 26 January 2006 (UTC)

[edit] iTunes

Is iPod the only MP3 player that works with iTunes, or are there others? If not, how do I convert my iTunes MP3s to another thing if I had them locked to iTunes without realizing it? 16:37, 26 January 2006 (UTC)—Preceding unsigned comment added by 64.198.112.210 (talk • contribs) 11:37, January 26, 2006

Sadly, the m4ps that are associated with the iTunes music store are not cross-application. And as far as I know, iTunes was designed specifically for the iPod, so the answer to your first question would be yes. Cernen Xanthine Katrena 17:45, 26 January 2006 (UTC)
Are you talking about iTunes for Windows or for Mac? The Mac version does support some players other than the iPod see here for the list; the Windows version is iPod-only. However, even on the Mac version, you'll still be limited by the fact that all songs sold by the iTunes Music Store are in AAC Protected format, and will only play on an iPod. (You can buy the songs and then convert them to MP3 if you want.) As for converting, it depends on whether you're on a Mac or PC, and what you want to convert them into. There are all sorts of conversion programs out there, and iTunes itself can convert some stuff, but you'll have to tell us precisely what sort of files you have. Are they songs you bought from the iTunes store, or just stuff you've grabbed off the net? --Aaron 20:30, 26 January 2006 (UTC)

[edit] Food

What is a strong smelling Belgian cheese --195.92.67.75 16:37, 26 January 2006 (UTC)

La crotte du diable. [59] Proto t c 16:51, 26 January 2006 (UTC)
Is it really named that? :) --BluePlatypus 17:02, 26 January 2006 (UTC)
"The Devil's Turd". How appropriate. ☢ Ҡieff⌇↯ 17:53, 26 January 2006 (UTC)
The website cited by proto does not seem reliable. Did you see some of the items posted? --Nelson Ricardo 18:17, 26 January 2006 (UTC)
That website does seem to be satire, but the stinky cheese also seems to be the star of a children's book: [60]. StuRat 20:13, 26 January 2006 (UTC)

[edit] RBD's English Album

What is the name of RBD's English album and what tracks are we going to expect from them on the album?

Why haven't there been anybody answering my question about RBD's English album?

[edit] sport

Which sportsman was nicknamed the iceman--195.92.67.75 18:20, 26 January 2006 (UTC)

I seem to remember Björn Borg was dubbed something like that. JackofOz 22:44, 26 January 2006 (UTC)
George Gervin -- Mwalcoff 23:01, 26 January 2006 (UTC)
Kimi Räikkönen as well. He even had the word "Iceman" written in very expensive diamonds on his helmet for the 2005 Monaco Grand Prix. But yeh, what's with all the questions? AlbinoMonkey (Talk) 02:18, 27 January 2006 (UTC)
Rugby Union player Michael Jones was also known as the iceman. Grutness...wha? 08:30, 27 January 2006 (UTC) A UFC fighter named Chuck Liddell
I seem to remember former world no. 1 tennis dude Stefan Edberg having that nickname. _ Slumgum 00:21, 2 February 2006 (UTC)

[edit] TV

Name the tv series and the star portaying a female police officer unrealistically fighting crime wearing skin tight clothes and high heeled shoes --195.92.67.75 18:26, 26 January 2006 (UTC)

See Police Woman (television) Here's a pic: [61] StuRat 19:56, 26 January 2006 (UTC)

[edit] Woman governor

Which famous law enforcement organisation had its first woman governor in 2003 --195.92.67.75 18:28, 26 January 2006 (UTC)

Could you narrow down what country this person was a governor in? Dismas|(talk) 19:32, 26 January 2006 (UTC)

[edit] Inventors

Who was the inventor who famously wrote 'I think I can be of far more use as a teacher of the deaf than I can ever be as an electrician' and never listened to himself --195.92.67.75 18:32, 26 January 2006 (UTC)

Are these questions in some sort of quiz you are taking part in? DJ Clayworth 19:14, 26 January 2006 (UTC)
He famously needed a certain Mr. Watson, and made a telephone call to tell him so. Does that ring any bells? That should be enough clues without giving it away the answers to this quiz. smurrayinchester(User), (Talk) 19:25, 26 January 2006 (UTC)
Clearly Mr. Sherlock Holmes. - Nunh-huh 06:37, 27 January 2006 (UTC)
Nunh-huh, Nunh-huh. (I'm sure you've heard that really lame excuse for a joke before...) -- it's this guy. Cernen Xanthine Katrena 08:08, 27 January 2006 (UTC)

[edit] Beech Tree

What is the name for the seeds of the beech tree --195.92.67.75 18:33, 26 January 2006 (UTC)

Beechnuts! Mmmmm.... -LambaJan 19:01, 29 January 2006 (UTC)

[edit] Question about person location

(Gah, people need to stop putting spaces in front of their sentences and causing the "no format" thing. Anyway, reformatted, by Cernen Xanthine Katrena.)

I am wondering if you can help me. I am wanting to locate someone who would know something about my grand dad. Where would I be able to find this out? I am wanting vital statistics information on him.

His name he used in the United States was John Krist Diamond. His family was from Serres Macedonia before the Greeks came in. At that time (1903) he came to the United States and lived in Gary Indiana. I know who his mom and dad were, his birthday date and that he had sisters. I know that he was Greek Orthodox. He always told my mom that he was from Athens, however, he also mentioned Serres. I don't know exactly when he left or what boat he took. I sure would appreciate it if you could help me somehow or tell me where to look.

Here's the information I know.

John Krist Diamond, born Feb 5 1888, father Krist Kristalis born in Serres, mother Kaliope Diamontis born in Serres. sisters Theodora and Magdalene Diamontis. I do not know their birth dates. He named his own children Magdalene(my mom), Krist and Theodora.

I have a close Macedonia friend who explained to me that he probably ran away to escape harm in the revolution. His age would fit in with that as well as his departure date which may be 1903 but others have said 1904 or 5. The port he came to in the US was Baltimore. My friend said he may have told everyone he was from Greece because at the time Macedonians were being persecuted.

As I said I am wanting to know what part of my information is correct or incorrect. I would like to know if I have anyone in Serres that may be family. Thanks for listening to me and I hope that you can get me on the right track.

My best regards, Lynn Moore

I would suspect that you probably do have relatives in Serres. You already know quite a bit about this person. I would crack open a Gary IN phone book and call the Greek Orthodox churches (there probably aren't very many) and ask if they have any records of him.
As far as government records, those may be a bit more tricky. You can go to your local library and use their geneology portal on their computer network to look up whatever records may be available. I'm saying the library because they oftentimes pay subscriptions to Ancestry.com and other related sites so you don't have to.
If you actually want to find relatives in Serres, this project is a perfect excuse to vacation there! Get all you can on him here and research (ask your Macedonian friend) what governmental outlets for records are open to the public over there, try to figure out what churches may have records, what his name was over there and so on. You can and should try to do as much of this as you can online and over the phone, but eventually going there may be the only way to cross some hurdals that will no doubt come up in this research.
You can probably trace forward one or so generations of his descendants (before the documents are blocked for privacy), just enough to find someone alive who can plug you into everyone else alive. Church records may be your best bet. Good luck! -LambaJan 19:17, 29 January 2006 (UTC)
Our Genealogy article contains some useful information. Capitalistroadster 07:29, 1 February 2006 (UTC)

[edit] Countryside

Where in the countryside would you find a Lilum Scar --195.92.67.75 18:37, 26 January 2006 (UTC)

Assuming you're referring to a lilly, "they are usually found growing near shrubs and other plants that shade their roots and keep the bulbs cool and moist." [62] -LambaJan 19:34, 29 January 2006 (UTC)

[edit] open air venues

Which open air venue hosts the enactment of the Life of Christ and the Nativity --195.92.67.75 18:38, 26 January 2006 (UTC)

Many places perform open air Passion plays, which usually centre on the end of Jesus' life, but might include the Nativity. See Mystery play for some old and traditional ones. Oberammergau's is no longer open air. Lots of churches re-enact the nativity at Christmas time, some in the open air (though not many here in Canada). DJ Clayworth 19:09, 26 January 2006 (UTC)

[edit] flowers

'Summer Holiday' is a tall grower with fragrant blooms that are orange-red with a paler reverse - What kind of flower is it--195.92.67.75 18:44, 26 January 2006 (UTC)

'Summer Holiday' sounds like the name of a local variety of a common flower. Perhaps if you provided a picture the question would be easier to answer, as several flowers can meet your description. -LambaJan 19:37, 29 January 2006 (UTC)

[edit] Needlework

In which type of needlework would you use a templet --195.92.67.75 19:05, 26 January 2006 (UTC)

A "pattern" is used in many types of sewing, but for a "template", perhaps needlepoint ? StuRat 19:36, 26 January 2006 (UTC)
Usually quilting Rmhermen 20:33, 26 January 2006 (UTC)
Cross-stitching is nearly always done from a template. -LambaJan 19:27, 29 January 2006 (UTC)

[edit] royal visits

In october 1997 the queen attracted publicity by wearing socks while visiting which city --195.92.67.75 19:07, 26 January 2006 (UTC)

Which queen ? Elizabeth II ? Queen Latifah ? StuRat 19:41, 26 January 2006 (UTC)
Emma? She would have attracted attention during any visit in 1997, with or without socks. DirkvdM 21:08, 26 January 2006 (UTC)
I remember watching footage of Queen Elizabeth II's last royal visit to the USA. Ordinary Americans were being interviewed in the street and they were all saying things like "Oh, it's wonderful that the queen is coming to our town". Seems "the queen" is sufficient to identify her in countries that don't have a monarchy. Anyone hearing "the queen" would know who was being talked about. There are other queens in the world (not all of them females either), but I think only QE2 gets to be called "the queen" by Commmonwealth and non-Commonwealth people alike. JackofOz 22:40, 26 January 2006 (UTC)
I would only expect that in current or former British colonies. StuRat 13:56, 27 January 2006 (UTC)
You're right. I had already clarified that (below). I think we're talking about the same set of countries, though. I can't think of an English-speaking country (ie. where English is an official language) outside the Commonwealth, that was never a British possession. That seems to be the way the language was introduced to the place. Same for former Spanish, Portuguese, French ... colonies. A country doesn't just decide to adopt a language because it sounds nice. Pity the world doesn't work that way. JackofOz 21:28, 27 January 2006 (UTC)
  • Not all queens female? They are all female. Not all of the monarchs are queens, though. Usually when I refer to "The Queen" it's the queen of the Netherlands. We call QE2 The Queen of England around here and I'm sure there's similar cases elsewhere. Specifying a country is still a good idea. - Mgm|(talk) 09:13, 27 January 2006 (UTC)
I'm sure you're right about the Netherlands. This would also apply in Sweden, Denmark, Norway, Spain, Thailand and other countries that have a queen (regnant or consort). "The queen" in those countries would of course refer to their own queen, not QE2. But I did say "in countries that don't have a monarchy", although I guess what I really meant was English-speaking countries that are not part of the Commonwealth of Nations. If you were in Ireland, South Africa, USA, Pakistan, Fiji, or many other countries, "the queen" would not refer to, say, Queen Beatrix of the Netherlands, but almost certainly to Queen Elizabeth II of the UK despite not being their head of state. BTW the bit about not all queens being female was a reference to another meaning of "queen" - a flamboyant male homosexual. Sorry if that was too flippant, but I couldn't resist it. Cheers JackofOz 11:15, 27 January 2006 (UTC)
Neither Queen (band) nor Ellery Queen are female. The first example may be your suggested usage of the word, LOL.StuRat 14:01, 27 January 2006 (UTC)
Indeed. Freddy Mercury would probably fit that bill. Maybe that's where the name of the band came from. JackofOz 21:28, 27 January 2006 (UTC)

[edit] Actress

Name the actress who has played both Virgin and Eleven Queens --195.92.67.75 19:09, 26 January 2006 (UTC)

Are you doing trivial pursuit? Or are these homework questions? Or are you testing us? You have to have a list of questions to fire 18 at us in such a short timespan. Although you do take occasional breaks I see. :) DirkvdM 21:04, 26 January 2006 (UTC)
The answer is Cate Blanchett. --Canley 04:01, 27 January 2006 (UTC)

"both Virgin and Eleven Queens"? So that makes a total of twelve queens? Grutness...wha? 08:33, 27 January 2006 (UTC)

He may have meant "Elven/Elfen/Sylvan/somethingorotheran". Cernen Xanthine Katrena 19:41, 30 January 2006 (UTC)

[edit] sport

When was a national anthem first sung before a major sporting fixture --195.92.67.75 19:11, 26 January 2006 (UTC)

What nation? Should we assume you're talking about the U.S.? Dismas|(talk) 19:30, 26 January 2006 (UTC)
Dismas: maybe if we ignore him, he'll go away; I think he's transcribing a homework assignment to the Reference desk. Cernen Xanthine Katrena 19:35, 26 January 2006 (UTC)
I thought that too at first but if it is homework, why are the questions so varied? Did all his teachers give him a list of questions to answer for tomorrow's class? Dismas|(talk) 20:48, 26 January 2006 (UTC)
Oh, above I suggested Trivial Pursuit. Maybe he's doing a game and occasionally sneaking away to the computer, pretending to go for a piss. What will people be thinking about the size of his bladder?
By the way, he asks about a national anthem, so the question leaves that open. And anyway, if not, why should the US be assumed? There are dozens of English-speaking nations in the world (together with a population that is way bigger than that of the US). And some of us are from non-English speaking countries (such as yours truly). After all, English is the world's lingua franca, which has it's advantages for the native speakers, but also some disadvantages - they can't assume readers here to be native English speakers. DirkvdM 21:23, 26 January 2006 (UTC)
I thought they might be from the U.S. because Americans often come here with questions and say things like "the president" or "my country" and they act like everyone should just know that they're talking about the U.S. It's a common thing here at the Ref desk. Dismas|(talk) 21:38, 26 January 2006 (UTC)
We don't use the term "sporting fixture" in the U.S. Anyway, I think it was during World War II. -- Mwalcoff 23:01, 26 January 2006 (UTC)

The question is formatted wrong, it should be:

When was the first time a major sporting fixture occurred immediately after the national anthem was sung?

See what a difference when you suitly emphazi the question.

  • See this for some insight about this user. hydnjo

talk 02:33, 27 January 2006 (UTC)

  • See this for the answer to the question. 165.123.152.196 02:52, 27 January 2006 (UTC)
That's good information if the question was about the Star-Spangled Banner. It may not have been, though. Use of the term "sporting fixture" suggests the questioner is not from the US. JackofOz 21:11, 27 January 2006 (UTC)

[edit] Stock Market

In the U.S. If there was no stock market, no stocks, and no exchanges, how different would the ecomomy be? How would capitalism be different?

Do you mean only individual ownership of businesses would be allowed ? This would slow the growth rate of new businesses dramatically by reducing the available capital. On the plus side, companies would be managed more responsibly (for long term growth, not for quaterly profits). StuRat 20:40, 26 January 2006 (UTC)
It would also greatly reduce the amount of natural stimulus to start up new companies at all. No stock market would mean no possibility of one day getting a big payout for all your years of work by going public. Imagine no Apple Computer, no Yahoo, no Google ... or, at best, far smaller and less inventive versions of those companies. Then multiply that thousands of times to cover all the hundreds of thousands of other companies that would never have gotten off the ground because there wasn't that much in it for the creators. An argument could easily be made that the American economy as we know it - the entire global economy, really - would not exist today without stocks. Capitalism could survive, but as StuRat said, it would be much more slothful, possibly so much so that it wouldn't be able to support the number of humans that currently exist. We'd probably be at least 75 years behind technologically as well. --Aaron 21:21, 26 January 2006 (UTC)
I'd say, without stocks there would be no accumulation of capital and therefore no capitalism. Living in a capitalist world it's hard to imagine what that might look like. There are historical examples, but not in the US (is that why the question is limited to the US?). In Europe stock exchange only started in the 16th century, I believe (I'm thinking about the VOC now). The present population surviving wouldn't require big companies. Just cooperation. Which could be on a small scale per occasion (sort of an anarchistic model, rather like the kibutzim). Or just plain big, potentially even bigger than any existing company. And that's one thing you're missing. Big projects can also be undertaken by a government. Even a small government is more powerful (not only financially but certainly socially) than any company. Maybe it took a Dutchman to come up with this. :) We may not have state socialism, but we've got enough socialism to imagine what it could be like. DirkvdM 21:34, 26 January 2006 (UTC)
Of course there are many companies which don't have stock now, perhaps most businesses. Most of those are small businesses. Instead of having a few car companies that makes dozens of models each, there might be dozens of car companies making a single model each (which is how it was 75 years ago). I suspect you would get more innovation out of all those companies; some would build electric cars, some would build ethanol cars, some would build hydrogen powered cars, etc. The same model might hold for other businesses, too. StuRat 21:43, 26 January 2006 (UTC)
I don't see how the stock market is the only way to accumulate capital and create capitalism. Both the banking and money-lending industries go back much further than that. Certainly investment in one form or another has always existed, it can be something as simple as lending someone the tools to build a mill in exchange for some future flour. The stock market is just a form of insurance, enabling the risks to be spread among investors. While, a government can do that job as well, they don't have as much money to invest. (Compare the total value of a small country's stock exchange with their state budget) Empirically, economic growth was quite a lot slower in communist countries. (It's also a much more difficult system to handle. Invest in a new factory or hire 1,000 new school teachers? -That's a pretty tough equation to solve.) --BluePlatypus 22:51, 26 January 2006 (UTC)
I suppose that by 'communist country' you mean something like the USSR. But what would you compare with then? With other countries or with the same country without the socialist rule? Russia had barely escaped the middle ages by the time of the revolution; largely agrarian (and barely successfull at that) hardly any industries or urbanisation and serfdom had only recently been abolished. Considering that, their progress may very well be regarded as the economic hit of the 20th century. From the middle ages to first country in space in a mere 40 years - quite an achievement.
Cuba hasn't dome so well (depending on how you define 'well'), but what would have come of it if it had been a capitalist country without the aid of the US? Without that they were already poor. And how have poor capitalist countries fared? They're mostly still poor. There are more poor than rich capitalist countries, so one can't say the continued poverty has anything to do with the socio-economic system in use. There are just too few examples to base any scientific theory on (just a handful of countries). And it all happened hardly under laboratory conditions. So there is no statistical basis for any such conclusion. The only thing one can say is that most countries that are rich now started off rich at the advent of industrialisation (or where in time should one start comparing?). So it's money that makes money, more than the economic system. DirkvdM 09:58, 27 January 2006 (UTC)
I disagree. For a good head-to-head comparison of capitalism and communism, look at South Korea (with a GDP per capital of US$20,300) and North Korea (with a GDP per capital of US$1800). This difference took some 50 years. With more time, even more of a difference would be expected, as the North has an economic growth rate of 1% while the South is at 3.7%.
For another example, China languished in poverty under communism and suffered from starvation until they began to allow capitalism. At that point their economy took off, and has been skyrocketing ever since.
I do, however, think that all totalitarianism is bad for a country's economy, not just communist totalitarianism. Essentially, there is no point in working hard to grow wealth if somebody is just going to steal it from you, which can happen in any totalitarian country. African, Asian, and South American countries under such systems have not fared well, while those with democratic governments tend to do better in the long run. Since communist countries were almost all under some form of totalitarian rule before their revolutions, there may not be much apparent change in the economy as a result. StuRat 13:51, 27 January 2006 (UTC)
Well, like I said, there are too few examples to really reach a conclusion. You give just two examples, but there are more than a hundred countries for which this is not true. And also look at Russia. I don't know how well the country as a whole is doing after the fall of the socialist state, but for many people (most?) things haven't quite improved, to puit it mildly. This is what I meant by "depending on how you define 'well'".
And totalitariansm is potentially better for the economy than democracy. Just look at Singapore. It's just that most totalitarian leaders will not be able to resist the temptation to only think about their own well-being. Power corrupts, especially too much power in the hands of one person. Combine that with the fact that people who come to such power are usually hardly the kind of people who can run a country and one must conclude that Castro is doing surprisingly well (given those circumstances, I mean). And in the case of China, the one-child policy (which started in the 1950's) must have been a blow to the economy after about 20 years and maybe that is now finally starting to pay off. Just a guess, but it sounds plausible. And another consideration is that most (all) socialist states were a result of a revolution and a revolution is never good for an economy. Then again, a fresh start is often good and the USSR wasn't bothered by old and obsolete equipment, like England at the time. And maybe they learned from the mistakes of 'the West'. Again, I don't know, just pondering.
But ultimaltely, we can reason and compare all we like, but the main thing is that there are too few examples to base any reliable conclusions on. DirkvdM 16:23, 27 January 2006 (UTC)
It is also possible that there could be stocks but no stock market. You could still have ownership of companies, even ownership divided between people. However transfer of ownership would be (presumably) more complicated, maybe having to rewrite the company documents to reflect the new ownership. The main difference would presumably be that it would be very much more difficult to raise large amounts of capital - you would have to rely on a few rich individuals or organisations rather than a big mass of moderately wealthy ones. What I would imagine happening is that moderately wealthy people would get together into groups and have the group buy up part-ownership of companies.
One possible positive result of the absence of a stock-market would be that ownership of a company would be much more for the long term. People would only own part of a company if they really believed in its future, rather than the gambling-like approach that many people take today. DJ Clayworth 16:56, 27 January 2006 (UTC)
When comparing varying economic systems, it's absolutely essential to look at them within a global-political context. In the case of North and South Korea, which country do you think does more trade with wealthy nations? and why?
Also, DJ Clayworth, I totally agree with you. That could be a very healthy economy, those companies resembling co-ops and credit unions. -LambaJan 19:53, 29 January 2006 (UTC)

[edit] Gmail

Is there a way to contact the staff at Gmail? I need to ask them a question. Thanx Zach 21:24, 26 January 2006 (UTC)

This is probably a good place to start. --GraemeL (talk) 21:30, 26 January 2006 (UTC)
I never thought about looking there :) Thanx!!!! Zach 21:49, 26 January 2006 (UTC)

[edit] Name this device

I can't think of the name of this device. I can only explain it as similar to a wheelbarrow, but upright. Used by UPS and such to deliver boxes. I can find pictures of it, but they ignore the name of the object.It looks like this feeble diagram.

  _
 |
_|o
That would be called a dolly. Zach 21:53, 26 January 2006 (UTC)
As stated in the hand truck article. Nice if we had a picture there though. hydnjo talk 21:59, 26 January 2006 (UTC)
I'm sure you meant to say ... it's nice that there IS a picture there?   freshgavin TALK    06:13, 27 January 2006 (UTC)
also known as a porter's trolley, BTW. Oh, and Freshgavin, thanks for suitly emphazi'ing Hydnjo's response! Grutness...wha? 08:41, 27 January 2006 (UTC)

You should have posted this on the language board and also mention which county, as the name may differ from region to region. StuRat 13:24, 27 January 2006 (UTC)

[edit] Phrase origin?

"In an average living room there are 1,242 objects _____ could use to kill you, including the room itself." I've seen this applied to Chuck Norris, Vin Diesel, and most recently to Lofa Tatupu by an over-zealous football fan. A section of the Vin Diesel article mentions this phrase but doesn't say where it's first use was. It references the Bill Brasky sketches as predating other uses, but our article would seem to say that it wasn't used, let alone orginated, in those sketches. Does anyone know the first use for this phrase? —WAvegetarian•CONTRIBUTIONSTALK• EMAIL•21:48, 26 January 2006 (UTC)

I've never heard this chestnut before, but surely it derives from the old "There are a thousand ways to kill a man." pulp motif.--Pharos 22:53, 26 January 2006 (UTC)
Where did you hear this phrase? I know that www.4q.cc has random "facts" about Vin Diesel, and Chuck Norris. I use "facts" extremely loosely, because they are actually not facts at all, but rather statements that poke fun at the bad-boy image that these guys have on TV / in movies. For instance:
  • The Tower of Pisa leans because Chuck Norris kicked it once while on vacation.
  • Chuck Norris owns and operates his own restaurant in Lubbock, Texas. Knuckle sandwiches are the only thing on the menu.
  • Vin Diesel is an alternate identity created by the government's most successful assasin. If you ask him about it, he will deny it, but your immediate family will be dead within two weeks.
Maybe this web page is where that phrase comes from? :o) tiZom(the man) 01:13, 27 January 2006 (UTC)
Being an RD volunteer myself I tried to help any would-be answerers out with the provided links. The Vin Diesel section linked to in the query has another site with similar stuff as the one you mentioned. Due to the nature of these sites, I find it unlikely that they would have spawned such widespread and uniform use as the phrase is always quoted exactly as I have shown it. Also, it is commonly used by people in a non-satirical way, although that could be lovely irony. I assumed it is from some Chuck Norris movie, but I haven't found a citation. I most recently saw this phrase, in reference to Tatupu, on the rants and raves section of the Seattle Craig's List. —WAvegetarian•CONTRIBUTIONSTALK• EMAIL•08:06, 27 January 2006 (UTC)
Hate to throw a further spanner in the works, but I've heard mention of it being far older, and dating to Peter Sellers' Inspector Clouseau movies. Whether that's true or not, I've no idea. Grutness...wha? 08:45, 27 January 2006 (UTC)
Someone on IRC just said it comes from The Chronicles of Riddick, but Sean Black said that it comes from the Old Testament. Just goes to show you can't trust anything you read on IRC. —WAvegetarian•CONTRIBUTIONSTALK• EMAIL•19:51, 31 January 2006 (UTC)

[edit] Neopets

Is there anyway to get more sidebar themes for neopets? Zach 22:17, 26 January 2006 (UTC)

Don't believe so. You could try reading through the not-fun areas of the site - that's how I figured out how to look at my messageboard avatars.

[edit] The Exorcism of Emily Rose

Does anyone know what Emily is saying (in Latin) "I am the one who dwells within." A friend wants to scare his sister with it (she was terrified of the movie) Thanx Zach 22:21, 26 January 2006 (UTC)

I googled some possible translations into Latin and the most popular one seems to be "ego sum qui intus habitat". Does that sound right? —Keenan Pepper 01:15, 27 January 2006 (UTC)

'habitat' sounds wrong to me - I would expect 'habito'. In the same way, the English 'dwells' sounds wrong to me - I would expect 'dwell'. In each case, the subject is first person, I or ego (picked up by the relative pronoun who/qui). Ego sounds right to me - the emphasis is needed. Maid Marion 09:11, 27 January 2006 (UTC)

The problem with those auto translators is that they translate the words, not the meaning. Sum means "I am." The ego is unnecessary unless you are intending to put the emphasis solely on I. This translation implies that it is more important that _I_ am... rather than someone else. Habitat is in the third person indicative. I believe this is wrong because it isn't the main verb of the sentence. As it stands now, I think it has two main verbs. You will get a better answer if you ask on the language desk for translation help. I also want to qualify this answer with the statement that I have had 1 1/2 years of intense schooling and life experiences separating me from my Latin practice. —WAvegetarian•CONTRIBUTIONSTALK• EMAIL•08:18, 27 January 2006 (UTC)

The phrase is not classical latin, but seems to be back translated from English or German. It is probably intended to mean "I am he who dwells within". The reason habitat is in 3rd person rather than first is that the subject is qui, not ego-- it is a third person verb phrase. alteripse 11:24, 27 January 2006 (UTC)

Are you sure alteripse? I haven't met the term 'third person verb phrase', but that's probably my ignorance. Usually when qui refers back to ego (or tu) it is followed by a verb in the first (or second) person. For a familiar example, see the Lord's prayer in Latin: Pater noster, qui es in caelo (not qui est). Similarly, in the old-fashioned English translation: Our Father, which art in heaven (not which is). Maid Marion 13:40, 27 January 2006 (UTC)

It's third person in English, too: "I am he who dwells within.". It's called a relative clause.
"Ego sum qui intus habitat." sounds like perfectly correct Latin to me. Why do you say it's not classical Latin, alteripse? —Keenan Pepper 17:26, 27 January 2006 (UTC)
Don't you think classical latin has a more "foreign" syntactical feel to it? When you see a phrase that can be translated word for word into a modern english sentence it may be grammatically correct latin but I bet it would have an alien flavor to a 50 AD Roman. For example, its not hard to "feel" the difference between even good ecclesiastical latin and real classical latin-- ecclesiastical is always much easier to translate and there are rarely words that seem to be missing. I have always assumed that was because it was never the native "living language" of the modern writers. That sentence just feels like it was written in a modern language and translated. alteripse 00:21, 28 January 2006 (UTC)
To be more explicit, "qui intus habitat" (which could be expanded to something like "homo qui intus habitat") is a phrase which functions as a noun. If you wanted to say "I, who dwell within..." it would be "Ego, qui intus habito..." which would then be followed by a first person main verb. But in this case, the relative clause does not apply to the subject "ego", but to the implicit predicate. You wouldn't have a problem with "Ego sum homo qui intus habitat.", would you? —Keenan Pepper 17:36, 27 January 2006 (UTC)

Or, more idiomatically, 'Ego sum ille qui intus habitat'.Maid Marion 10:32, 30 January 2006 (UTC)

Doesn't the form "ego sum" stress that it is I - rather than somebody else - who is doing (whatever). ?

Not necessarily. Sometimes the pronoun is used to impart a kind of solemnity to the utterance, as in Jesus's words as they appear in the Vulgate: 'Ego sum via, et veritas et vita'. This seems appropriate to the present case.Maid Marion 16:50, 30 January 2006 (UTC)

[edit] January 27

[edit] American Enterprise Institute

Does the American Enterprise Institute have anything called a "Special Warfare Center"? If so, is it named after someone, and who? Zafiroblue05 00:49, 27 January 2006 (UTC)

If it is called the "Special Warfare Center" then presumably it isn't named after anyone or it would be called the Joe Bloggs "Special Warfare Center". AllanHainey 12:05, 27 January 2006 (UTC)
The only such reference to a "so-and-so Special Warfare Center" at AEI is on this page [63], which appears to be a computer-generated fake blog designed to screw around with Google page ranks, most likely for spamming purposes. --Aaron 18:22, 28 January 2006 (UTC)

[edit] use of the term 'sailing' to describe the movement of water vessels

i have tried to find the definition of sailing as it relates to water vessels not powered by sails.

Can someone tell me whether a vessel which does not have sails can be described as 'sailing' between ports.

I know that 'sailing' is defined as 'motion across a body of water in a sailing ship, or smaller boat, powered by wind'.

What I want to know is which verb is used for vessels which do not have sails. ie. those powered by steam, electric, nuclear, oars, solar, etc etc.

I thank you in anticipation of your reply, and note that this will settle a debate!!!!

Thanks again.

M

Merriam-Websters defines the verb "sail" as "to travel on water in a ship", "to travel on water by the action of wind upon sails or by other means", "to move or proceed easily, gracefully, nonchalantly, or without resistance" and "to begin a water voyage". So yes you can use the word 'sailing' for non-sail powered ships. You could also use "navigate", "cruise", "voyage", or speak of "a crossing". People who sail on sailboats tend not to use the word 'sailing' to refer to sailing their boat without using the sails, but rather 'motoring'. --BluePlatypus 01:30, 27 January 2006 (UTC)
Surprisingly, I helped answer a RD question like this before. The conclusion seems to have been that for large boats, sail is appropriate regardless of the actual fact of sails. Boat is better used for smaller ones. Superm401 - Talk 00:39, 28 January 2006 (UTC)
Sidenote: Mark Knopfler has an album called 'Sailing to Philadelphia' with a picture of an airplane on the cover. -LambaJan 20:04, 29 January 2006 (UTC)

[edit] Celebrity names

Shannyn Sossamon named her son "Audio Science," certainly one of the oddest names for a celebrity's child. (Granted, non-celebrities also give strange names to their kids, but I doubt at the same rate.) I saw a claim on an IMDb message board that some celebrities give their children weird names (Moon Unit Zappa, anyone?) just to put on the birth certificate, and then call them a "real name" so they know who is just a hanger-on with ulterior motives, not a real friend (ie, they call them by the weird public name). My question is - is there any truth to this? Might celebrities who give their kids outlandish names call them by more "normal" names at home - in particular to insulate them from the tabloids/stalkers of the world? 165.123.152.196 02:47, 27 January 2006 (UTC)

Well, Moon Unit Zappa was and still is known as Moon Zappa, so that theory seems over before it's started. Some celebrity kids adopt their own, more-ordinary, names later in life, like Joe (a.k.a. Zowie) Bowie. No doubt some do do it for the reasons you say, but I don't think it's an overwhelming deliberate ploy. Note too that there are cultural differences, like "lucky" names. In the Philippines, parents will try to give their children unusual names so that they stand out from the crowd. In the west Indies and some parts of Africa, if the parents have the same surname as someone famous, they'll also give them the matching famous person's first name. Also, in the West Indies in particular, names that have long been out of fashion in the US and UK are still widely used. The old trend for African-Americans to use persidential surnames as first names is a similar phenomenon. Also note that there has been a widespread change in general to more unusual first names by many people in English speaking countries. Look at a first-year entry into primary school and the Johns, Janes and Williams will today be greatly outnumbered by Chantelles, LaShawns and Brunos. Grutness...wha? 08:56, 27 January 2006 (UTC)

[edit] Death

What does it cost to process a death in the U.S.? (not including the funeral costs) What happens when the family doesn't want to pay anything?

If a person has no family, the government will put the body in a pauper's grave. Speaking as a person who has had relatives die, most everyone wants some kind of religious service to help organize the parting of memories. Cremation is much cheaper than having a burial plot. User:AlMac|(talk) 09:39, 27 January 2006 (UTC)
People whose body isn't claimed are given a "pauper's funeral"; essentially, the local authorities pay for the individual to be buried as cheaply as possible. Though, apparently, some municipalities are switching to cremation because it's now fairly well accepted, and cheaper. The exception is in the case where a body is unidentified; they will bury it so that it can be retrieved for reburial if the next of kin are identified. --Robert Merkel 09:38, 27 January 2006 (UTC)
The questioner specifically said excluding funeral costs. I presume this means any fees to register the death, fill in forms, etc. Can't answer for the US, but in the UK all this was free, for the simple reason that they really want all deaths to be properly registered, rather than have bodies dumped in landfills or hidden in attics. DJ Clayworth 16:37, 27 January 2006 (UTC)
To me, the funeral is just the ceremony held to commemorate the dead. Therefore the burial or cremation is not part of the funeral costs. My step-mom recently died at home, and the cost was about $1300 for body removal, cremation, paperwork, etc. It would have been $300 less if prearranged. That's in Detroit, and I suspect it's varies by location. StuRat 17:03, 27 January 2006 (UTC)

[edit] American Idol Judging

What qualifies Simon Cowell to Judge American singing?

Osmosis.   freshgavin TALK    06:06, 27 January 2006 (UTC)
(snert). it's a tv pop quest. None of the judges are likely to be qualified in any way to judge. That's why the winners always sound so godawful. Grutness...wha? 08:56, 27 January 2006 (UTC)
Ultimately, the winners are decided by the public who choose to vote. That said, Simon Cowell is as qualified as just about anybody to judge pop music, given the pop groups he has been involved with, from Il Divo to Westlife. Yes, his experience is mainly British, but the British have a tradition of commercially-successful pop music second only to the US itself. Finally, the actual reason why he's featured on Idol is that, he plays the same role on the UK "Pop Idol" and the producers obviously liked his ability to deliver coherent insults with a Pommy accent (they sound nastier with one, for some reason). --Robert Merkel 11:09, 27 January 2006 (UTC)

I notice a similarity with the game show Weakest Link, which also featured constant insults from the host toward the participants. StuRat 13:16, 27 January 2006 (UTC)

Probably the fact that he's made several tens of millions of pounds by finding artists who can sell records. Night Gyr 13:21, 27 January 2006 (UTC)

It might be because he owns all rights to the show. Proto t c 13:58, 27 January 2006 (UTC)
Shows like American Idol are mainly about humiliating people, and Simon seems to be very good at it. DJ Clayworth 16:35, 27 January 2006 (UTC)

[edit] about puerto ricans

im heard that most puerto ricans are black is that true? Well, i dont know how to clarify it but, what im talking about is ancestry and skin color(mostly demographics). so could you clarify that for me? —Preceding unsigned comment added by 207.200.116.134 (talk • contribs)

Well, to be honest, Dominicans seem more "black" to me. I used to get them confused all the time. It lead to some funny moments at the bodega near my apartment. Pacific Coast Highway|Leave a message ($.25) 15:51, June 10, 2008 (UTC)
Considering that race doesn't actually exist outside of culturally defined, and really quite arbitrary, parameters, I would say that it's a matter of opinion. -LambaJan 20:10, 29 January 2006 (UTC)
If we're talking DNA, Puerto Ricans may be as much, if not more, Native American as anything else:
"In March 1999 Dr. Juan C. Martinez Cruzado a biology professor at the University of Puerto Rico in Mayaguez conducted A Mitochondrial DNA sequencing study to determine how much, if any, Native American blood could still be found in the modern Puerto Rican people ... [and] 60% of the people studied showed definite Taíno DNA. In fact even people with no obvious Native phenotype also showed high degrees of Mitochondria stemming from a Native American female ancestor. The conclusion is: That although, some of the Indian genetic markers undoubtedly must have come from Natives brought to the island as slaves form [sic] other parts of the Americas, the amount of Mitochondrial revealed suggest that the Intermarriage between Taínos and the Spanish/Africans obviously much higher than anyone ever suspected. In [the] 1970’s Don Ricardo Alegria conducted a study on shovel shaped incisors and found that 35 percent of all the students he tested had this native "trait" also. In Human Biology, v.73, no 4, pp 491-5111, August 2001. First appeared in his paper, “Ethnic-contributions the Puerto Rican mitochondrial gene pool”. March, 1999." [64]
If you have access to a Muse subscription through a unversity or major library, the Human Biology article is available online. Grant65 | Talk 04:06, 3 February 2006 (UTC)

[edit] Global city

I would be glad to know the "Criteria for a city to be called as a global city".

See Global city. David Sneek 07:54, 27 January 2006 (UTC)

[edit] number of fire trucks in the usa

They all have different numbers. That's how you can tell them apart. Grutness...wha? 08:56, 27 January 2006 (UTC)

I think the poster's asking for the Number (quantity), rather than the number (designation) or number (contact). I might be wrong though. GeeJo (t) (c) • 10:37, 27 January 2006 (UTC)
Of course if all the guy really is after is the contact number - it's 9-1-1. GeeJo (t) (c) • 10:41, 27 January 2006 (UTC)

[edit] connecting t.v--digital set-top box--dvd recoder-foxtel

hello there.as a senior citizen,things are not as easy to grasp as when younger.i have the the 4 items mentioned on subject/headline but am having touble connecting same so they all interact with each other.the handbook with my sony tv tells me how to connect to dvd recorder---the foxtel h/booktells how to connect to t.v etc etc but none show how to connect all 4.if anyone out there can help me or has a web address where i can find out i shall be most grateful.here's hoping bob

The company that supplies the cable TV service to you, should
  • (a) do the connection for you with the top box that they supply to control what cable TV you get, so that you can see what they supply,
  • (b) tell you if it is legal under their contract with you to be able to have a box to tape the shows.

User:AlMac|(talk) 09:43, 27 January 2006 (UTC)

  • Bob,

Try contacting Foxtel as AlMac suggested. Alternatively, you can get a man in to connect everything for you so that it works properly which is what I did this afternoon.

Capitalistroadster 08:54, 1 February 2006 (UTC)

[edit] number of ambulances in the usa

[edit] number of police cars in the usa

  • Try reading the top of the page and rephrase your question. - Mgm|(talk) 09:17, 27 January 2006 (UTC)

[edit] Scout Association of Malawi

Can somebody please let me have contact details for The Scout Association of Malawi. Thank you Cecilia Cummings. NATIONAL EXECUTIVE COMMISSIONER, SCOUTS OF NAMIBIA scoutnam@mweb.com.na

Try Scout Association - Africa contacts. CambridgeBayWeather (Talk) 11:42, 27 January 2006 (UTC)

[edit] CV21

does anyone know about www.cv21.co.uk......is it a secret advertising/design agency?

  1. Visit the site
  2. Click on the box that they claim to think outside of
  3. You then get an icon where you can send them an e-mail
  4. Be patient

User:AlMac|(talk) 10:29, 27 January 2006 (UTC)

i have tryed to contact them but they do not reply.... as i have heard they work for free if you are the right client...

please advise as i would like to know if anyone has had any luck contacting them.

regards

Mr Hall (OBE)

  • contacting whom?
  • owns what?

User:AlMac|(talk) 09:44, 27 January 2006 (UTC)

I think he wants to know who owns www.cv21.co.uk -- David Sneek 10:25, 27 January 2006 (UTC)
A Whois lookup got me this:
Registrant: Mr Stuart Mackintosh
Administrative contact's address:
       OpusVL
       26 Butlers Leap
       Rugby
       Warks
       Cv21 3RQ
Registrant's agent:
       Opus Vision Ltd t/a OpusVL [Tag = OPUSVL]
       URL: http://www.opusvl.com
Hope that helps.
<snide> You'd think that, with an OBE, you could afford a spell checker and the necessary brains to write an intelligible question... </snide> — QuantumEleven | (talk) 10:58, 27 January 2006 (UTC)
Um, why would you think that? Are those things always awarded on merit? JamesMLane t c 12:19, 27 January 2006 (UTC)
Well, they're awarded for "services to the British Empire" or "services to industry" or something along those lines, which implies some form of merit. But it was a frivolous comment anyway, so I'll just shut up now. — QuantumEleven | (talk) 12:38, 27 January 2006 (UTC)
(sorry in advance for further topic drift) "Sir" Paul McCartney, a man I admire greatly, seems to have a very weak grasp of the Queen's English himself. "this ever-changing world in which we live in?" Ugh. -- Mitchell k dwyer 19:49, 27 January 2006 (UTC)
Just to inject a note of perspective here, I very much doubt that the "OBE" referred to by Mr Hall was meant to imply he has been appointed an Officer of the Order of the British Empire. No idea what it does refer to, but I'd bet $$ it wasn't that. JackofOz 13:07, 28 January 2006 (UTC)

[edit] Any inputs on Sundari trees

Is there any information on Sundari trees?

Try here. CambridgeBayWeather (Talk) 12:14, 27 January 2006 (UTC)

[edit] "Reverted edits by xxx.xxx.xxx.xxx (talk) to last version by Username"

Is there a template that automatically generates this edit summary (or something in monobook.js) ? How can I use it without having to type the whole thing myself? deeptrivia (talk) 14:53, 27 January 2006 (UTC)

I asked that myself once to someone who used it; apparently it's an Admin-only thing. Which is a shame, because it's very useful.  Run!  14:55, 27 January 2006 (UTC)
And you can only get to be an administrator if you have been suitly emphazied. CambridgeBayWeather (Talk) 15:04, 27 January 2006 (UTC)
I think that's the due to the magic rollback feature that Administrators have. There is currently a discussion on whether or not non-admins should be given that ability. --Optichan 15:43, 27 January 2006 (UTC)
That's stupid, because it's only a matter of giving more convenience, not of giving more powers (anyone can revert any way). It would help people write better edit summaries. deeptrivia (talk) 16:23, 27 January 2006 (UTC)

But it could easily be abused in edit wars, making it very, very easy to revert over and over again. That's why only admins are trusted with it. Yeltensic42.618 don't panic 16:58, 27 January 2006 (UTC)

Also see Wheel war and Wikipedia:Wheel war. CambridgeBayWeather (Talk) 17:56, 27 January 2006 (UTC)

You can use this by adding User:Sam Hocevar's god mode script to your monobook.js file; document.write('<SCRIPT SRC="http://sam.zoy.org/wikipedia/godmode-light.js"><\/SCRIPT>'); should do the trick. —Charles P._(Mirv) 17:06, 27 January 2006 (UTC)

Yeah, and I use Wikipedia:Tools/Navigation popups for quick reverting. The problem with these methods is that the editing page has to load the page and then save it , while the rollback feature admins have can revert immediately, requiring less requests and stuff from the server. Using the rollback is easier on the servers. --Optichan 18:31, 27 January 2006 (UTC)
The admin version reverts all edits by the last user back to the next user in the history. It isn't the same as reverting to the previous edit. Of course sometimes a third user makes an edit between vandal edits and the admin tool only reverts back to that edit, leaving older vandalism. Rmhermen 18:38, 27 January 2006 (UTC)

[edit] query

> Respected Sir/Madam, > > I came to know about the various german universities (list of > universities) through your site but i am unable to get there ranking of the > universities. > > please help me. > > Sincerely > > Chinmay >

The article College and university rankings has a link to CHE-Ranking, which ranks German universities. -- Natalya 16:56, 27 January 2006 (UTC)

[edit] Character entity reference for a large indent space (tab)

This article has the character entity reference for a no-break space (& nbsp;), but it doesn't appear to have one for the large space usually provided by the Tab key in word processing programs... is there one and what is it?  Run!  14:52, 27 January 2006 (UTC)

See this. It appears on this paticular computer to turn up as 8 non-breaking spaces. CambridgeBayWeather (Talk) 15:12, 27 January 2006 (UTC)
You can encode a tab character in HTML as &#9;. Howevere, this probably won't do you much good, since browsers will normally treat it as just another whitespace character. It may render differently inside PRE tags, but even there the tab stop spacing may vary between browsers (though 8 characters is indeed quite common). See also Tab#Tabs in HTML. —Ilmari Karonen (talk) 17:17, 27 January 2006 (UTC)
Tab won't work. You could use &emsp; which is a non-breaking space of one em (a line height). Example: these spaces are 1 em in size. ☢ Ҡieff⌇↯ 18:53, 27 January 2006 (UTC)
Use the CSS property text-indent if you want them at the beginning of paragraphs. Superm401 - Talk 00:46, 28 January 2006 (UTC)

[edit] Wall angle illusion

If two exterior walls of a building meet at less than a right angle and make a sharp corner, from some angles one of the walls will appear to be paper-thin. Is there a name for this illusion? —Keenan Pepper 17:20, 27 January 2006 (UTC)

How about a wangle illusion? Sorry about that. CambridgeBayWeather (Talk) 17:59, 27 January 2006 (UTC)
I don't understand the situation. Could you give us an image? ☢ Ҡieff⌇↯ 18:56, 27 January 2006 (UTC)
Quick ascii diagram:
    |   /
    |  /
    | /
    |/.....

*
The person standing at * cannot see the diagonal wall (/), and there is nothing where they would expect the other side of the wall to be if they made a right angle (.) so the one wall they can see (|) appears paper-thin. —Keenan Pepper 21:18, 27 January 2006 (UTC)

It's my understanding that this particular illusion doesn't have a name. However, it would fall under the broader heading of 'Cognative Illusion.' see: Optical illusion -LambaJan 09:00, 28 January 2006 (UTC)

Right, it's definitely not physiological. I was just wondering if it had a name I could use to Google it. —Keenan Pepper 21:02, 28 January 2006 (UTC)

[edit] I say it, it writes it

Anyone know what the spoftware that is used that when i speak it types it, i.e i dictate to the computer and it would write it in a word processor, does anyone know what this is called, and where i could possibly download the software from preferably for free. thanks! (7121989 19:12, 27 January 2006 (UTC))

Try Dragon Naturally Speaking or Voice Recognition Software or Speech Recognition Software. CambridgeBayWeather (Talk) 19:17, 27 January 2006 (UTC)
We also have an article on speech recognition. --Shantavira 19:22, 27 January 2006 (UTC)
I haven't looked yet at the speech recognition article, but in addition to Dragon, there's also ViaVoice, which colleagues of mine use all the time for every written document. If you have Windows XP, there's built-in voice-recognition capability not just limited to word-processing; you can use it for executing computer operations, such as opening, deleting, and saving files. -- Mitchell k dwyer 19:39, 27 January 2006 (UTC)

where and how can i access it? —Preceding unsigned comment added by 7121989 (talk • contribs)

You can buy it here. hydnjo talk 20:52, 27 January 2006 (UTC)

Beware, speech recognition is a real pain. You typically need to "train" it to recognize your words, talk slowly and clearly in an otherwise silent room, and then correct many errors. I used ViaVoice and decided it wasn't worth the effort. StuRat 21:58, 27 January 2006 (UTC)

It eats a lot of computer memory and related resources. IBM has one of the more sophisticated versions (costs more than the computer you put it on) in which you have to read a novel by Mark Twain aloud to the comptuer (takes a couple hours) so it learns how you pronounce words that are common in the English language. Even then, it figures out what words from context of those around (too two to sound the same but from context the computer figures out which you meant), but then if you are not good with the English language (not very literate), this is not going tow rork out very well. The state of art works for someone who can see the text and make corrections. It not do a good job yet for people who are blind and in real need of the technology. User:AlMac|(talk) 08:37, 28 January 2006 (UTC)

[edit] TV presenter

Hello again...Its the person who asked all those questions yesterday, so I thought I would give you all a bit of background. This is the first time we have contacted Wikipedia, a novice I think you would say, as I am with computers. I would like to be able to reply to all your comments individually but I have no idea how to!

No its not trivia or school homework. We are working on a local quiz of 1000 questions and have actually completed around 965. The remaining 30 odd have all been researched extensively by ourselves and have found possible answers for most,but not always conclusive and 100 per cent. So this is why we chose to go to the people that know.Some you have kindly confirmed and others have given us food for thought.The questions are as they are written I'm afraid..rightly or wrongly. We have a few more questions to add to the list and would be grateful for any comments you can give. Many thanks in advance. LuLu

PS the quest on open air venue is in the UK

Q. She runs her own national company, Chronicle 21, as well as often presenting a popular TV programme....Name the person and the programme please --195.92.67.65 20:52, 27 January 2006 (UTC)

According to this, it's Diane Louise Jordan. User:Zoe|(talk) 04:51, 28 January 2006 (UTC)

[edit] Film Quotes

'Your faith against the masters.....................' is a famous quote from a film..Can anyone complete it and tell us which film its from--195.92.67.65 20:56, 27 January 2006 (UTC)

[edit] Card Games

In Canasta how mnay points is one red worth--195.92.67.65 20:57, 27 January 2006 (UTC)

Do you mean a red three ? StuRat 21:47, 27 January 2006 (UTC)

[edit] advertising

Who is the Face of Chanel no 5--195.92.67.65 20:59, 27 January 2006 (UTC)

It seems several people have been called the face of Channel 5. Do any of those names ring a bell? --Optichan 21:34, 27 January 2006 (UTC)
Very droll. I think it's Nicole Kidman. JackofOz 02:15, 28 January 2006 (UTC)
Though the ads aren't necessarily featuring her face. - Nunh-huh 04:58, 28 January 2006 (UTC)
I'm sure you're right. I haven't seen the ads in question, I;ve just gone from our article on her, which says she "is the current face of the iconic Chanel No. 5 perfume brand." Cheers JackofOz 05:19, 28 January 2006 (UTC)
Mostly they feature her back. In a dress with whatever the opposite of a plunging neckline is. A plunging backline? - Nunh-huh 05:26, 28 January 2006 (UTC)
Depending on how far the "backline" plunges, that may be a kind of face. It certainly has cheeks. JackofOz 12:59, 28 January 2006 (UTC)
"Full, rosy cheeks and one brown eye." LOL. StuRat 08:46, 29 January 2006 (UTC)

Enough, enough enough! What is going on here? Dozens of questions every day that look like they come from some pub quiz, and which anyone with internet and a knowledge of Google could find the answer to. Are you making them up? Are these from some quiz game that is paying you money? Do you think you are performing some public service by giving us questions to answer? We need to know. DJ Clayworth 16:38, 30 January 2006 (UTC)

[edit] Deuce Bigalow Male Gigolo

In the first Gigolo movie, I remember an unusual exchange between Deuce and Kate during their "blind date." If I remember correctly, it went something like this:

Kate: "No, good luck to any girl that goes up there, but no, that's not for me."
Deuce: "You mean space exploration is out of the question for you?"
Kate: "I just don't think girls are meant to go all the way up there. Good luck to any girl who wants to be an astronaut."
Kate: "Frankly, I'd rather take it up the ass."

That last line confused the shit out of me (no pun intended). Were they talking about a woman having sex on top of the man or was they actually talking about space exploration? Why did she add that last line about taking it up the ass?

Please answer this question; I can't sleep until I find out.--192.160.130.12 21:59, 27 January 2006 (UTC)

See anal sex. Yeltensic42.618 don't panic 22:20, 27 January 2006 (UTC)

Where is the emphasis in the last line? If she says "Frankly, I'd' rather take it up the ass" she may be referring to pegging.
The way I read it is this. Kate does not want to go into space. In fact, so strongly does she not want to go into space that if it came to a choice between going into space and being sodomised, she would prefer being sodomised.
Presumably she considers sodomy to be an unpleasant experience, but when it comes to space travel, everything is relative. JackofOz 12:56, 28 January 2006 (UTC)

[edit] Science fiction

hey guys. i'm preparing a speech in public speaking class (imagine that) and i'm looking for examples of inventions/concepts/ideas found in science fiction/fantasy books that have modern-day parallels. for instance: the game played by the children in Orson Scott Card's book Ender's Game featured 'guns' that fired light beams, which then froze the suit of a given child, disabling him/her. the MILES system in use by the US Army is very similar, as it fires infrared light and sets off sensors worn by the soldiers to indicate a hit. any contributions would be appreciated. thanks, --66.82.9.42 22:00, 27 January 2006 (UTC)

Ooh, this is an interesting topic. Sadly, my brain has frozen, so let me think... Possibly my favourite is the Future Force Warrior, a US Army project to create an extremely advanced future soldier with a powered exoskeleton, bearing a resemblence to Heinlein's Mobile Infantry in Starship Troopers. I'm sure others can do much better. Sum0 22:41, 27 January 2006 (UTC)
There are plenty (it's not the point of science fiction - although that's a different topic). The best known would probably be Arthur C. Clarke's suggestion of the use of communication satellites in one of his books. Another well-known example is the design of the communicators used in Star Trek, which are almost identical to modern cell-phones. Mobile phones themselves were first envisaged by Robert A. Heinlein. Closed-circuit TV was shown in the 1930s movie Metropolis. And Hugo Gernsback's 1920s novel "Ralph 124C41+" had dozens of things in it which have since become real items (though sadly the book is so dull as to be virtually unreadable). And one author (whose name sadly eludes me, although it was one of the biggies - Asimov, maybe?) was hauled before the US government authorities in the early 1940s for writing a novel featuring an atom bomb - at a time when top-secret research was going on to create the first one. Grutness...wha? 22:56, 27 January 2006 (UTC)
You will probably get more and more through examples of this on the USENET group rec.arts.sf.written -- people ther love this kind of question. The author involved with teh "atom bomb" story, by the way, was Cleve Cartmill, then a major author but now rahter obscure. Asimov may have been influenced nby this incident in writing his story "Pate de Fois Gras". DES (talk) 23:06, 27 January 2006 (UTC)
On the Cell-phone example, an earlier and more through anticipation is the 'Pocket phone' mentioend in the opening chapter of Space Cadet by Heinlein. Anotehr famed example is the antiapation of the internet itslf in "A Logic named Joe" by Murry Leinster. Yet another is the Waterbed, in Heinlein's "Waldo", although this was in turn anticipated for invalids in actual practice, as recorded by Mark Twain in "A New Beecher Church". DES (talk) 23:10, 27 January 2006 (UTC)
The Boys from Brazil was one of the first sci-fi books to deal with human cloning, back in 1976. Sum0 23:43, 27 January 2006 (UTC)
Sorry it was alreasy so common as to be trite then. The Duplicated Man' dates from the early 1950s, as does the calssic "Rogue Moon", and there are many others. Niven's "Organ Bank" (Gil Hamilton) stories of the late 60s and 70s are also relevant. DES (talk) 00:12, 28 January 2006 (UTC)
  • I believe early episodes of The Jetsons featured a cooking device very much like a microwave oven. When that no longer seemed futuristic enough, they switched to dehydrated food.
  • Gattaca featured genetic screening and engineering of humans.

StuRat 00:02, 28 January 2006 (UTC)

    • Both of these were featured in written SF in the early 1950s if not before. "Radio cooking" was IIRC used in several of the Heinlein "juvies" of that period. There are quite probably earlier examples yet. Cloning and genetic engineering were already stables of pre WWII written SF. Harrison's Deathworld series comnes to mind, and does Schmitz's "Feederation fo the Hub" (Telzy Amberson) series. DES (talk) 00:08, 28 January 2006 (UTC)
  • Above, Grutness suggested that "the best known would probably be Arthur C. Clarke's suggestion of the use of communication satellites in one of his books." Sorry, but this is a wrong example. Clarke did suggest the use of the geostationary orbit for communications satellites, but this was in a nonfiction article. Now let's see:
    • The waldo was conceived by Robert A. Heinlein in the story of that name.
    • Heinlein is also credited with conceiving the waterbed; follow the link.
    • During WW2, in "Solution Unsatisfactory", Heinlein conceived the idea of radioactive dust as a weapon of war: like the dirty bomb known today, minus the explosive used as a method of distribution.
    • Much earlier, H.G. Wells envisioned nuclear weapons in The World Set Free. However, his atomic bombs were bombs that "exploded continuously" for days rather than bombs of great force.
    • Isaac Asimov, in the story "The Feeling of Power", imagined that calculators (or possibly even computers; it's not clear from the story how much power he imagined them having) would be reduced to pocket size. And then he went on to imagine that once this happened, simple arithmetic would become a forgotten art. We're getting there...
    • Murray Leinster conceived something remarkably like the Internet as we know it today, and anticipated the issues of personal privacy and of censorship for underage users that we know with today's Net, in the story "A Logic Named Joe". This was written in 1946, before the word "computer" was even established in its modern meaning; "a logic" in the title means a computer.
    • In John Brunner's 1975 novel The Shockwave Rider, a "worm" or "tapeworm" is a computer program that propagates autonomously in a network.
    • Finally, a throwaway joke: during the production of the movie A Space Odyssey, Clarke commented that the publicity department at MGM must have typewriters where the press of a single key would produce the phrase "Never before, in the history of science fiction". Our younger readers may need to be reminded that on an actual typewriter as they then existed, the press of one key produced one character.
    • (On rereading the other parts, I see that I've mentioned a couple of items that were already given. Sorry about that; I'll leave them in anyway for the sake of the links.) --Anonymous, 01:45 UTC, January 28, 2006.
  • Good list. Of course, while Clarke's proposal of geostationary communications sats was non-fiction, he showed some of the possible consequences of easy global communications in "I remember Babylon". DES (talk) 01:56, 28 January 2006 (UTC)
    • true of course - I was going from my (frequently faulty) memory. Still, I think that's a pretty reasonable list we've assembled overall... Grutness...wha? 02:51, 28 January 2006 (UTC)
many thanks are in order. a fantastic list, guys. i really appreciate it. --66.82.9.42 03:15, 28 January 2006 (UTC)
I'm a little late to the party, but the author who wrote about the atomic bomb shortly before it was used (and got into trouble with the FBI) was Cleve Cartmill. --Fastfission 05:13, 28 January 2006 (UTC)
  • Nanotechnology is just taking off today, with many companies in many nations scrambling to get involved. The idea was first described in Science Fiction in the 1960's in novels by Stephen Baxter and Paul McAuley. They were talking about using it in the area of biology. In real life so far it has only been used in manufacturing.
  • When did the equal rights for women feminism movement begin to take off? Was it given a helping hand, or prediction in Science Fiction? Consider Ursula Le Guin's[ Left Hand of Darkness] (1969); Margaret Atwood's The Handmaid's Tale (1985). movies like Alien, where women played strong roles, and in Star Trek, where people other than white males had strong roles and equality, first coming out at a time when there was vast discrimination and prejudice in the real world.
  • Protecting Ecology and the environment, and understanding this aspect of our planet, are concepts first explored by science fiction, such as Frank Herbert's Dune (1965) and other stories; George Stewart's Earth Abides (1949); Hal Clement's Mission of Gravity (1954),
  • Dystopia is the concept of a society or community gone wrong. Science Fiction shows us how humans can screw up big time with technology, providing us with inspiration how to prevent it from happening, or watch the horrible stuff unfold, like George Orwwll's Nineteen Eight Four (1949). In the name of protecting the innocent from terrorism, we are headed towards a society in which the state has the power to know everything we do.
  • Cybercrime has not been well predicted by SF, but look at all the Robot detective stories. Here we have expectations of intelligent behavior by machines. Real robots today are mainly used in manufacturing, and do not resemble the stories by Asimov and other giants, but consider the plots of the robot stories, then consider how much trouble we now have from malware. I see parallels.
  • Biotechnology has been big business in recent decades, perhaps partially due to discoveries by the human genome project mapping out human DNA to the point that scientists are now able to design new life forms to perform specific tasks, such as environmental cleanup. Science Fiction first considered genetic engineering, cloning, biological warfare, body augmentation, and similar concepts in novels like H.G.Wells The Island of Dr Moreau (1896}; Aldous Huxley's Brave New World (1932); Frederick Pohl's Man Plus (1976); and others could be mentioned.
    • How erecently have we had cloning for real? A decade or so. Michael Crichton's Jurassic Park (1990) probably catapulted the concept into the public consousness, with the movie having more success than The Boys from Brazil, but the topic was also found in SF in other novels such as Kate Wilhelm's Where Late the Sweet Birds Sang (1975) and Gene Wolfe's The Fifth Head of Cerberus (1972).

User:AlMac|(talk) 08:51, 28 January 2006 (UTC)

Now that I suppose nobody is looking any more, I made the mistake of rereading my own item above and realized I'd gotten it wrong. The phrase in Clarke's joke about a special typewriter key was actually "never before, in the history of motion pictures". --Anonymous, 04:35 UTC, January 31, 2006.
All these answers and NO ONE mentioned Jules Verne? His books included descriptions of submarines, flying machines, "floating islands", travels to the moon, and much more... Also, as his books have been around for quite a while, his ideas have had longer time to become reality... 62.119.184.141 13:32, 31 January 2006 (UTC)
One real "coup" for Verne was his surmise that - to gain the most acceleration from Earth, a space rocket would need to be launched from the tropics, and that the first country to send people into space would be those go-ahead folk on the left of the Atlantic. As such, the launch of the first manned mission to the moon would be from Florida... Grutness...wha? 23:05, 3 February 2006 (UTC)


[edit] January 28

[edit] Cropping Websites And Images For Printing (A4).... Possible...???

How do i crop an oversized website or image for printing on a piece of standard A4 size paper...???

First off, you must be referring to an individual web page, as a web site may consist of hundreds of pages, and I doubt if you would want to print all of it. Next, cropping might be a poor choice, as typically scaling down the image to fit the paper is a better choice. However, if you're sure you want to trim it, then you could do a screen grab, paste it into a software product like Microsoft Paint, then use that product to crop the image. I'm assuming you have a windows PC here. If you can't get the entire web page on the screen at once, even under max resolution, then this method would require that you use the Print Screen button one section at a time, which would be quite time consuming. Perhaps someone else has a better solution for this case. StuRat 02:20, 28 January 2006 (UTC)
A webpage should resize to fit whichever size paper you print to, just as it adapts to the size of the browser window you view it in. Unless there is some element that doesn't resize, such as an image, so I suppose that is what you mean (as with some images here on Wikipedia image pages, such as this nice one by me: [65]). I'll assume you're viewing the page 'live' on the Internet. I don't know if there is an easier solution (there should be), but what you could do is download the page (Ctrl-S) and the image (right-click it and select 'download image') to the same directory. Then open the downloaded page in a text editor (not a browser) and look for <img src="[photo-file]". This will, however, be the image on the site. Change [photo-file] to simply the filename on your computer (if it's in the same dir - else you'll have to specify the path, absolute or relative, but that would unnecessarily complicate this). You should put that between the quotes - the complete name, with the jpg (or whichever) extension. Now you should be able to view it offline, with the image intact. Then, open the image in an image editor and resize it. You speak of cropping, but that is removing bits of the edges of the image, but I suppose you mean resize - keeping the complete image but making it smaller (reducing the amount of pixels), so look for that term in whichever image editing program you use.
Addition: if you just want to print the image (not the whole page), it's better to do that with the printing software (something like 'fit to page'). The image editor will also have an option to reduce the amount of cm's (or inches, whichever the program uses). Note that this does not alter the image itself, whereas the former solution (reducing the amount of pixels) does. It just changes a 'tag' attached to the image that will tell any printing application which size to print it in. But, as I said, you should be able to override that with the printing software. DirkvdM 12:48, 28 January 2006 (UTC)

[edit] criminal transmission of HIV

Hello, my name is Andrea Bruno, and I'm from Argentina. I'm writing to see if you can give me any legal advice as to how to proceed with an American citizen from NY who is infecting women with HIV intentionally leaving the condom inside them soon after starting the sexual act and then ejaculating inside them.Our legal system is terrible, and I wanted to know if it is possible to charge him under American laws even though he is doing this here.

Thank you,

Andrea Bruno --200.114.173.43 02:09, 28 January 2006 (UTC)

No, I don't think so. In general, any crime committed by an American outside US territory is considered to be outside the jurisdiction of US courts. I know of one exception: Adults who travel to foreign countries to have sex with children may be charged in US courts, regardless of the legality of those acts in that country.
However, why can't you just charge the person with attempted murder in Argentina ? I don't see why a special law would be needed for this case.
StuRat 02:30, 28 January 2006 (UTC)
The other piece of good news is that the risk of a single unprotected sexual encounter with a person with HIV is not as high as you might think, according to our AIDS article, particularly absent risk factors like a preexisting infection with another sexually transmitted disease. So, while this certainly doesn't excuse this individual's alleged disgusting behaviour, with a bit of luck he may not have actually infected anybody. StuRat is right, though; it should theoretically be a crime under Argentinian law. One option that might be possible if criminal conviction is impossible, but you have convincing evidence of his behaviour, is to bring it to the attention of the immigration authorities. Visas can generally be revoked on "character" grounds even in the absence of a specific criminal offence. --Robert Merkel 11:57, 28 January 2006 (UTC)
  • First make sure the person is reported to the police as soon as possible. The longer one waits with this the less chance there is of revealing useful evidence. Someone cannot be convicted without a police investigation. - Mgm|(talk) 15:56, 28 January 2006 (UTC)

[edit] Other languages

In norwegian all new content in articles which administrators diagree about (typical philisophical or political) is removed by the administrators (not normal users!) and writer is banned for noe valid reason. They do never discuss the matter and explicit disagree with this principle:

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Wikipedia:Resolving_disputes - When someone makes an edit you consider biased or inaccurate, improve the edit, rather than reverting it.

In Norwegian version everybody has to agree that socialist point of view is the only truth and if anybody write or insert a link that does not support socialist theory, they are usually censored/banned. Why do english version of wikipedia link to the Norwegian when the principles of how to write articles are opposite of the english version? The principle above should be a must for all language versions - else they should not be linked to. There is no point linking to a left-hand propaganda machinery which is strongly biased to classic socialist point of view. Who agree with this?

Norwegian version is NOT a norwegian version of the english but a propaganda machinery for the socialist way of thinking.

Which Norwegian wikipedia, no or nn? I'm not sure how to deal with this as I don't speak Norwegian. Perhaps it's best to contact Wikimedia, the parent of all the Wikipedias. --Sum0 10:32, 28 January 2006 (UTC)
He is talking about the bokmål version. He is most likely talking about the article about capitalism, which he keeps saying it's just the socialists point of view, and using offensive language to other administrators and users. He is, by the way, the only with his point of view. ~ Mathias-S 11:02, 28 January 2006 (UTC) (no)
It might be usefull to add that according to him the only party in Norway which is pro capitalism is a party that got all of 213 votes (0.0%) at the elections in 2005. The rest are social democrats or worse. There is currently a discussion on how to treat bad language about other users. Haros 11:12, 28 January 2006 (UTC)
I wonder if something like this could happen at all. If only admins could vote for new admins, it could if the first few are of a certain political (or whatever) opinion and conspire in such a malevolent way. But they're chosen by any user who wishes to vote, so this sounds like a very unlikely scenario. DirkvdM 12:57, 28 January 2006 (UTC)
I am not an admin myself at the Norwegian Wikipedia, but I can confirm what you say, DirkvdM. The user posting this is most likely the (one of the) only user(s) with that thought. The Norwegian (bokmål) Wikipedia is a normal Wikipedia, just as all the others. Mathias-S 17:25, 28 January 2006 (UTC) (no)
Aw. For a second there, I had hoped for an exciting spy technothriller where a rogue socialist Wikipedia breaks away from the project and threatens to destroy all the servers... but I digress. I suppose we'll have to make do with the bloodless coup staged by our Spanish colleagues. Sum0 23:07, 29 January 2006 (UTC)


[edit] Age to purchase a hotel room

What is the legal age that one may purchase a hotel room in Houston, Texas?

Watch out ... I have been to some hobby conventions, where people reserved hotel rooms, drove hundreds of miles, then when they tried to check into the hotel, the front desk refused to honor the reservations because the attendees were too young. User:AlMac|(talk) 09:19, 28 January 2006 (UTC)
So, if there is any doubt (say if you're under 21), ask when you make the reservation. StuRat 11:30, 28 January 2006 (UTC)
Never thought such a thing might happen. But a backpacker's wouldn't turn kids away. Unless they're really young, maybe, but I've done a lot of travelling and never heard of this happening. Then again, it might be different in the US. Or is there something special about Houston? DirkvdM 13:01, 28 January 2006 (UTC)
Part of what's different is we don't know what "a backpacker's" is. Maybe a hostel? But we have few of those. Rmhermen 13:48, 28 January 2006 (UTC)
Yeah, it's a hostel. I made a redirect there now since among backpackers it's a very common term because the word 'hostel is too easily associated with youth hostels (the biggest yuk there is in travelling, apart from a few notable exceptions, escpecially outside cities). DirkvdM 14:28, 28 January 2006 (UTC)
I see you edited the hostel article just before I did. You might have another lok at that and youth hostel, both of which I have altered to clarify this. DirkvdM 18:33, 28 January 2006 (UTC)
When I last went to Houston, I stayed in Bed and Breakfast ... watch out ... I was attending a convention at some hotels that cost hundreds of dollars a night, so I thought I was getting a bargain @ much lesss than $ 100.00 a night which they said was a short drive from the convention center. Yah Right ... 45 minute drive depending on traffic. It was much better in Chicago. Downtown Bed & Breakfast, free parking, $ 50.00 a nite, 2 blocks walk from the convention. The last hobby convention I remember being at, where I witnessed people being turned away who had reservations but the hotel desk clerk thought were too young was in St Louis. User:AlMac|(talk) 22:24, 28 January 2006 (UTC)

Off-topic but I had to get this off my chest. In the UK, it's illegal for people under 18 to buy or sell cigarettes. So guess who my local supermarket (Tesco's) put on the cigarette counter today? Thats right, a 17 year-old. So for every single customer, she has to ring for the supervisor to OK the sale. Aaargh. Jameswilson 00:08, 29 January 2006 (UTC)

That's as bad as the "answering services" that say, "Hello, this is Uranus-Hertz Corp, may I help you ?"...My answer is, "I seriously doubt it, as you know nothing about the business you are misrepresenting as your employer". If you think you have reached a live receptionist actually at the company, it can be quite baffling: "What are your hours ?" "I don't know.", "Where are you located ?" "I don't know." "What products or services do you offer ?" "I don't know." StuRat 08:38, 29 January 2006 (UTC)
This is getting terribly off track, but I thought I'd add: for some years my company has purchased out of hours call answering from a call centre in the UK. (They e-mail us the messages they take). You sit down with them and work out a script, and give them information they can look up, but we could not persuade them, as I wanted, to actually say in their opening that they are the "answering service for XXX". I don't know if they consider that unprofessional. Notinasnaid 11:18, 29 January 2006 (UTC)
Yea, they are inherently dishonest, trying to pass themselves off as receptionists at a company, when they are not. To me, this is just lying. I have the same problem when I call AOL for help, and get some call center in India where they don't know the first thing about AOL, so how are they going to help me ? Short answer, they don't, they just misdirect me to the wrong phone number for an inappropriate department which no longer exists, then hang up on me during the transfer. StuRat 18:15, 4 February 2006 (UTC)

[edit] DVD player

Whenever I watch a widescreen DVD, the image is distorted. How come? KeeganB

Regular TV, widescreen TV, and widescreen DVDs all have different aspect ratios. Some TVs and DVD players let you pick what to do if the aspect ratio of the source is different from that of the display device (TV). If not, then either your TV or your DVD player is deciding how to handle the issue. -- Rick Block (talk) 05:19, 28 January 2006 (UTC)
Do you have a widescreen TV? If not, go into your player's SETUP section and make sure your ratio is set to 4:3 (Letterbox).

I appreciate the replies. I was able to fix the problem. KeeganB

[edit] Msn 7.0

I have msn 7.0 and on the personal message if u click on the arrow it says turn on what i'm listening to, I clicked on it and it used to work, showing people what I listen to, now it hasn't worked for ages even though it has a tick next to it...can you please help me?!?! Are you running Windows Media Player at the same time? 81.131.53.86 14:02, 28 January 2006 (UTC)

Yes, are you running Windows Media Player whilst MSN Messenger is already loaded? KILO-LIMA 16:12, 28 January 2006 (UTC)

Yes, but most of the time i use itunes

It's almost a certainty that Microsoft's MSN Messenger is setup only to integrate with Microsoft's Windows Media Player only. In order to display what track you're listening to, the two programs have to talk to each other via an application programming interface, and most large software vendors (like Microsoft) have a bad habit of not 'playing well' with other vendors (like Apple iTunes). You might be able to find another instant messenger client program which can work on the MSN network, and is also able to display the track from any media player. I'm not up on the technology there, but you might look into some of the clients at instant messenger#Cooperation. Gaim and Kopete seem to be two possibilities KWH
Ah, apparently iTunes does work with MSN Messenger, but you have to change something odd in the settings [66].

In MSN Messenger go to Tools / Options / General and check "Open Messenger main window when Messenger starts."

Hope that helps. Sum0 22:57, 29 January 2006 (UTC)

[edit] Uni

I live in Australia and I want to get into an english uni, I'm in my first year of highscool, how can I get into it?

Go to the school's website and look at their admission requirements. Don't mess around trying to meet them. Also ask your school's guidance counsellor, that's actually their specialty. Other than that I would say to be well rounded, do some extra-curriculars, take an interest in your community and have a fun childhood! It's over before you know it! Oh yeah, it's always a bonus to apply early, get all your papers in order, and work on your written and public communication. Don't worry. As long as you keep at it here and there you should have plenty of time to work things out. -LambaJan 08:47, 28 January 2006 (UTC)
By the way, the recommendations above will help no matter where you want to study. Be aware, though, that it will be much more expensive for you to study overseas (where you'll have to pay the full course fees unless you get a scholarship) than it will be studying at home in Australia. Another option you can think about is doing a student exchange while you're at university, where you spend a year studying at an overseas university and the balance in your home country.
Finally, the UK is an expensive place for Australians to study, but a lucractive place to work, because both costs and wages are higher in the UK. Maybe you consider working there for a time before or after you finish your degree. --Robert Merkel 11:22, 28 January 2006 (UTC)

How does working help? Not in a rude way, lol, just in an interested way, also how old do you have to be to apply at universities?

Working helps by providing you with money, which you can exchange for food at shops. I don't think there's a minimum age- every so often an obnoxious 13-year-old goes to Oxford to study maths, so if there are rules they can certainly be waived. Many Scottish children go to university at the age of 17, though earlier than that would be unusual. Mark1 13:48, 28 January 2006 (UTC)
The underage applications to Oxford are, I believe, likely to stop in the next year or so. If memory serves, recent child protection laws would mean that everyone resident in the college would have to pass a background check, and with several hundred undergraduates plus staff, the cost alone of processing this paperwork would be unsupportable. Shimgray | talk | 14:32, 28 January 2006 (UTC)
Depends on what your motivation for studying in the UK is. If it's because of a belief that universities in the UK are better than Australia's, well, that very much depends on the course you do and the university you attend. Taking the university as a whole (always a dangerous thing to do), Oxford and Cambdridge are better than any university in Australia, but I'd say that ANU, the University of Melbourne, and (arguably) the University of Sydney are the equal of just about anywhere else in the UK, and superior to many. If it's because you want the experience of living in the UK, getting a degree there may not be the most cost-effective way to do it. --Robert Merkel 00:07, 29 January 2006 (UTC)

[edit] Previous questions

How do I find previous questions that I asked which arn't in the list anymore?

See the Reference Desk Archive ☢ Ҡieff⌇↯ 08:30, 28 January 2006 (UTC)
Use Google. Wikipedia is constantly scanned by google bots, so if you remember your question and google it with the keywords "wikipedia" and "reference" you might just get a direct link.  Run!  10:16, 28 January 2006 (UTC)

[edit] hermione granger

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v614/doomphoenix/ewwall3.jpg

That picture I found on a website with emma watson/hermione granger wallpapers, I found the link on emma-watson.net, but I can't find them anymore, please help!

Why not go to the site and click on the contact us and ask them for the info? CambridgeBayWeather (Talk) 14:31, 28 January 2006 (UTC)
I just noticed that down on the right hand side is a link that enables you to pay $2 or £1 to buy Emma Watson a song from itunes. And if the make enough money they will buy her a ipod. We need to start a campaign to ensure that child actors (and possibly adults) are paid a decent amount of money so they can afford their own music and ipods. CambridgeBayWeather (Talk) 14:39, 28 January 2006 (UTC)
  • I'm positive she can. It's just a few fans rallying to surprise their idol. - Mgm|(talk) 16:01, 28 January 2006 (UTC)
Sorry, I thought the sarcasam was obvious. I would have thought that it would have been a better idea to raise the money to donate to a charity of Watson's choosing. CambridgeBayWeather (Talk) 16:09, 28 January 2006 (UTC)
Call me cynical, but there are lot of scams out there. Don't donate money unless you are sure it is going where you want it to. --Shantavira 09:21, 29 January 2006 (UTC)

[edit] the monkey prince

I've just been watching 'the monkey prince', is it a documentary? ANd what sort of monkeys are they?

Try one of the links from here. CambridgeBayWeather (Talk) 12:31, 28 January 2006 (UTC)

[edit] mirrors

The total lack of any posted question about mirrors reflects poorly on you. StuRat 11:27, 28 January 2006 (UTC)

Maybe he/she was obeying Sartre's maxim: Mirrors should think longer before they reflect. JackofOz 12:40, 28 January 2006 (UTC)
I'd imageine StuRat's wikilink was what they were looking for... AJR | Talk 18:42, 28 January 2006 (UTC)
On further reflection, I think it was Cocteau, not Sartre. Sorry for the misattribution JackofOz 09:51, 1 February 2006 (UTC)

[edit] how to edit "article not found" page

http://en.wikipedia.org/w/index.php?title=Article_not_found&action=edit

i want to change this

"We don't have an article with this title, but you can create it if you log in or create an account. As an unregistered user, you may also submit the content that you wish to have created. Please read our introduction for more information about Wikipedia"

into this

"We don't have an article with this title, but you can create it if you log in or create an account(Registering a free account takes only a few seconds, and has many benefits:you simply need to choose a username and password and click "create account".). As an unregistered user, you may also submit the content that you wish to have created. Please read our introduction for more information about Wikipedia"


why: because most of the website use e-mail for submiting password and procedures are quite long and so we need to show that it's very fast and convenient...

i didn't get an acount for a long time for this reason

there is also a huge number of pages that are waiting to be created at http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Wikipedia:Requested_articles mabe a lot of theses people have posted their articles here because of the same reason(i did once(about a comparison of unix subsystem under windows(sfu,cygwin...)))

I would suggest that you try Wikipedia:Village pump and look under the Proposals section. CambridgeBayWeather (Talk) 14:49, 28 January 2006 (UTC)
This is not a page that a "ordinary" editor can alter. You would need to get some consensus for your proposed changes and then a more privileged user may make the changes you desire. Rmhermen 15:03, 28 January 2006 (UTC)
That text can be edited at MediaWiki:Nocreatetext, but only if you are a sysop. You should propose the changes at MediaWiki talk:Nocreatetext. --cesarb 16:11, 28 January 2006 (UTC)

[edit] Green Mold

Can you please tell me what is the best chemical mixture to remove green mold (algea?) from dry-vit stucco which would be least harmful to foliage and environment. Thank you, D. Harleman

I recommend also asking this in the Sciences section if you haven't already done so - you might be able to get some attention from the resident biologists and chemists.  Run!  17:39, 28 January 2006 (UTC)
Then again, you're to supposed to double post. Maybe you can move this short thread there (I mean remove it here), with an introductory explanation. DirkvdM 18:37, 28 January 2006 (UTC)
I would say sponge or spray on bleach, which will both kill it and remove the green color. However, be careful not to drip it on other plants, as it will damage them. Bleach will quickly evaporate, so poses no long term risk to other plants, however. Also, leave the area quickly after applying the bleach, to avoid lung damage. StuRat 08:29, 29 January 2006 (UTC)

[edit] College Porters in U.S.

The article porters' lodge claims that they exist in the U.S. and Canada as well as in the UK. Since I have never seen a U.S. college/university with a closed quad, I wonder if this is true. Do any U.S. colleges have porters and/or lodge? The article Porter (college) makes no mention of non-UK porters in its very short text. Rmhermen 17:19, 28 January 2006 (UTC)

I have never heard those terms used in any of the various colleges in Northeast Ohio, but the colleges all do have positions that perform those functions. I can scarcely imagine any large organization that could get by without doing those things. -LambaJan 23:37, 28 January 2006 (UTC)
It may also be worth noting that porters' lodges exist outside colleges with closed quads - there aren't closed quads at Durham, for example (at least, not in most colleges), it being a very Oxbridge bit of architecture. The term is often used elswhere, though they're often not quite as high-profile as in residential colleges. Shimgray | talk | 22:10, 30 January 2006 (UTC)
Indeed, they exist outside colleges. My school, for example, has a porters lodge, with an open quadrangle. Sam Korn (smoddy) 22:14, 30 January 2006 (UTC)

The same function may be served in the US by a security booth, typically at the entrance to parking areas, or an information desk/receptionist's desk, typically by the main entrance to a building. You may ask directions at either location. StuRat 08:20, 29 January 2006 (UTC)

[edit] The Matrix

What was the name of the song that was playing in the first movie where Neo goes to the party with his friends and Trinity meets him? The one in the club?

Rob Zombie's Dragula (perhaps a remix of it) ☢ Ҡieff⌇↯ 18:08, 28 January 2006 (UTC)
The specific title of the song in question is Dragula (Hot Rod Herman Remix). Cernen Xanthine Katrena 00:17, 29 January 2006 (UTC)
The song "Mindfields" by The Prodigy is also played at the club (when Neo is talking to Trinity). --Canley 10:55, 29 January 2006 (UTC)

Okay, some more questions from me to keep the discussion alive (since watching the movie over and over again seems to yield no information):

  • When is the Paul Oakenfold remix of "When The World Ends" by Dave Matthews played in The Matrix: Reloaded?
  • When is Session by Linkin Park played in The Matrix: Reloaded?

They're both on the 2-disc soundtrack, but I can't find them in the movie at all. Cernen Xanthine Katrena 19:36, 30 January 2006 (UTC)

[edit] Drum beating

Dear Sirs:

We watch FoxNews quite a bit in the evening, but find it very annoying to have a loud drum beating all the time the announcers are giving the news.

Why is the drum beating necessary? Do you think you need it to keep your audience awake?

Sincerely,

D Luhta

Funny, I never hear any drums.... --Zeizmic 20:42, 28 January 2006 (UTC)
I am curious why you are asking this question of us? Do you think we are Fox? Notinasnaid 21:30, 28 January 2006 (UTC)
I watch far too much TV, including Fox News. I have never noticed drum music on Fox, when the news topic not relevant to Fox. I have noticed theme background music on Sci Fi channel that makes it difficult to make out what the characters are saying. I wonder if there is some quality control on the Cable TV that leads to noise from some other channel bleeding through to the one we are watching. User:AlMac|(talk) 22:31, 28 January 2006 (UTC)
The thing I hate is when you're watching a program and the commercials are so much louder than the show. They claim they don't pump up the volume during the ads, but they lie. User:Zoe|(talk) 23:13, 28 January 2006 (UTC)
That's a marketing practice. They covered that on WABC-TV's "What's Bugging You" segment. It happens most often on cable. Especially with Cablevision. Pacific Coast Highway|Leave a message ($.25) 23:25, 28 January 2006 (UTC)
There is a particular technique called voice compression, where they take out all the silent bits, along with audio level compression used to ensure the volume never drops below a certain level on what would have been quieter, but not silent, parts. The maximum volume is still the same, but the effect is that it sounds louder. StuRat 14:59, 29 January 2006 (UTC)
Yes, that is the reason. Lately several radio stations have started putting background music behind the announcer for this very reason. It's to keep the audience engaged, annoyed, and sometimes entertained.
What you noticed is really among the most innocuous of the ratings tactics. The ones to really be careful about are related to the choice of stories and the way that they're presented. Most of their articles would fail an NPOV test. My advice is to get your news elsewhere. The BBC is not perfect, but is much more highly recommendable. -LambaJan 23:30, 28 January 2006 (UTC)

I like Google News. Watch TV news for 15 minutes to get their headlines, then go here with a few choice phrases from the TV news to get details in different news media. If a story is breaking in some particular city, unsually news media in that city have a better perspective on background than the national media. User:AlMac|(talk) 04:40, 29 January 2006 (UTC)

Years ago, the newsroom would be abuzz with the sound of teletype machines bringing in the latest news from the news wires, like UPI and AP. This sound became a mental trigger that you were watching live news, versus prerecorded "old news" (do I get an oxymoron badge for using that term ?). Modern newsrooms aren't so loud, as quieter printers and the availability of information online made the teletype obsolete. However, some news orgs still try to replicate the "live news" effect with a similar beat. Another method used is to have the background filled with reporters and other workers typing on computers, talking on phones, etc., instead of placing a nice set behind the anchors. StuRat 08:15, 29 January 2006 (UTC)

For years my parents and others of their generation have been complaining about the tendency to add background music to factual content. They complain that it is very hard to pick out the words, and I find that as I get into my 40s this is becoming noticeable to me too. Arguably this is counter-productive, though it depends on the target audience. It may be that the original questioner (who I suspect was lost and won't be back, but please prove us wrong if you are here) has poor hearing and can maybe only hear the drum component of the background music, and muffled speech. Fortunately, at least in the UK, some channels offer subtitles. This can be of help. Notinasnaid 11:13, 29 January 2006 (UTC)
I wonder if they're talking about drum beating as in "beating one's own drum." It is, after all, Fox News. Cernen Xanthine Katrena 23:00, 1 February 2006 (UTC)

[edit] Tennis

How does tennis scoring work? So it goes 5-10-30-40-win (need 5 'points' to win), then you win the match? And there are 6 matches in a set, and 3 sets in a game? The tennis article doesn't help.

Have a look a the tennis scoring article, if you need more help, come back and ask here and we'll be happy to help. :-) Akamad 22:16, 28 January 2006 (UTC)
You are pretty close.
  • 0-15-30-40-win - that's for a game
  • the first to win 6 games wins the set (but you can also win 7-5, or if it gets to 6-6 then there is a tiebreak)
  • the first to win 3 sets wins the match (For a Grand Slam event there is a limit of 5 sets. If it is 6-6 games all in the 5th set you keep playing until someone leads the let by two games. For example a match can go to 21-19 in the fifth set)--Commander Keane 12:23, 29 January 2006 (UTC)
Just as a note, you also have to lead by 2 games to win a set outside of the Grand Slam - that's how it's possible for the score to reach 6-6 without the first to reach there winning. GeeJo (t) (c) • 13:06, 29 January 2006 (UTC)
  • Grand slam matches for men are best of 5. In women's matches in grand slams, it is best of 3 sets. Capitalistroadster 09:48, 1 February 2006 (UTC)

[edit] How is "Chicken Meal" different from Chicken?

Most dog and cat foods contain some form of "-meal". Such as "Chicken Meal", "Lamb Meal", etc. I believe that it is ground meat, but it is not considered to be as nutritous for your pet compared to PIECES of chicken.

How are the two different besides being ground? Wouldn't they be considered the same nutritionally, except one is whole pieces and the other is ground? How does grinding it change the nutritional value?

I am researching dog food so I can share this information with my colleagues and find out what food it truly the most healty. I sincerely appreciate your help! Thank you.

Top 10 Things You Don't Want to Know ... What goes into anything called 'Chicken Meal' or Chicken Loaf. --Zeizmic 00:14, 29 January 2006 (UTC)
Apparently "meal" is defined by the Association of American Feed Control Officials (AAFCO). "Chicken meal" is:
The dry rendered product from a combination of clean flesh and skin with or without accompanying bone, derived from the parts of whole carcasses of chicken, exclusive of feathers, heads, feet, or entrails. [67]
The main difference between meal and pieces of meat seems to be that meal may contain an uncertain amount of ground bone, thus containing less protein than whole meat. Meal may also come from a variety of sources that may be less than healthful.
The dead animal might not be rendered until days after its death. Therefore the carcass is often contaminated with bacteria such as Salmonella. E. Coli bacteria are estimated to contaminate more than 50% of meat meals. While the cooking process may kill bacteria, it does not eliminate the endotoxins some bacteria produce during their growth and are released when they die. These toxins can cause sickness and disease. Pet food manufacturers do not test their products for endotoxins. [68]
Hope that helps. ‣ᓛᖁ♀ᑐ 01:36, 29 January 2006 (UTC)

Didn't I say? -- Don't ask! :) --Zeizmic 02:06, 29 January 2006 (UTC)

See also the external links from our dog food article. --Shantavira 09:27, 29 January 2006 (UTC)

[edit] January 29

[edit] sodomy

Can someone explain the exact origin of the word "sodomy"?

The word refers to an act between people that was ascribed to the inhabitants of the city of Sodom, as vaguely suggested in the Biblical book of Genesis. The English usage of this word for this act, however, is not biblical but can be traced back at least to the 13th century according to the OED. alteripse 02:54, 29 January 2006 (UTC)
Well, according to the Oxford English Dictionary it comes from the Old French sodomie. That comes from the famous old Biblical city, Sodom, which is from the Hebrew סדם, origin of the word in many European languages (possibly also in the Qu'ran?). Despite this etymology, as our article on sodomy mentions, the word has a varied history and has not always been used to mean "male/male sex" as it is today. --George 03:03, 29 January 2006 (UTC)
Actually, it may mean many different types of sex even today, such as homosexual anal sex, heterosexual anal sex, or, more rarely, homosexual or heterosexual oral sex, bestiality, or anything anyone considers "unnatural". StuRat 08:01, 29 January 2006 (UTC)

[edit] Model on cover

Hey there On the covers of the series 'Wicca' who plays Morgan Rowlands and the other people like Cal? Thanks Seeing as there are diff versions, here is an example of one:

http://www.girl.com.au/img/wicca_eclipse12.jpg

thanks!

I did a search of Cate Tiernan to see if there was any information available online about her bookcovers. I couldn't find anything. You may wish to call up Penguin books if the information isn't in the cover. It's more than likely that the cover will not have the model's name printed, but will probably say 'Cover Design by: ...' and you can use that information as another avenue of research. -LambaJan 21:22, 30 January 2006 (UTC)

[edit] gangs in brazil

Are there gangs in brazil(mostly rio de janeiro)? if yes, what are their names?

Yes, sure, Brazil has one of the highest crime rates in Latin America and also in the world. I don't know the gangs' names, generally those mafias are very secretive; don't forget that many citizens and tourists are anually kidnapped or murdered. --Nkcs 05:05, 29 January 2006 (UTC)
We have a list of street gangs. Unfortunately it doesn't say where each of them is based. It looks like this list could do with some maintenance, but you'd better not mess with the "Battle Row Ladies Social & Athletic Club". --Shantavira 09:37, 29 January 2006 (UTC)
The question was about gangs, not crime. Of course one can have loads of crime without gangs. And the word 'gang' conjures up images of fights, but a gang does not have to be criminal does it? Shantavira's suggestion underlines this nicely. :) DirkvdM 09:48, 29 January 2006 (UTC)
They are mostly drug traffickers, based on the favelas. I can recall some off the top of my head: Comando Vermelho, Terceiro Comando, Amigos dos Amigos. --cesarb 13:29, 29 January 2006 (UTC)

[edit] UFO

Does UFOs really exist?

Please see Unidentified flying object. -- Rick Block (talk) 05:46, 29 January 2006 (UTC)

I sure hope not.

Of course they do. Whenever you see something in the air and you can't make out what it is, it's an Unidentified Flying Object. A more interesting question would be if extraterrestrial life exists. —Keenan Pepper 07:42, 29 January 2006 (UTC)
I once saw a film in which a pilot saw something flying through the air he couldn't make out and reported that. Upon the question "Do you want to report a UFO?" he frowned and after some hesitation said "no". But of course he had spotted a UFO. Funny how words can get a completely unrelated meaning. DirkvdM 09:52, 29 January 2006 (UTC)
That an object is unidentified by some person and flying does not make it a UFO. "UFO" has acquired a meaning distinct from its origins. In the sense of "extraterrestrial spacecraft visiting Earth", no, they don't exist. There are almost certainly extraterrestrial spacecraft somewhere, but not near Earth. Mark1 14:00, 29 January 2006 (UTC)
If an object is unidentified and flying, it's an Unidentified Flying Object (aka UFO) by definition. Whether it's extraterrestrial (which is the meaning some people erronously give it) is another matter. But strictly speaking that was not the question. - Mgm|(talk) 10:09, 30 January 2006 (UTC)
I agree with the first part, Mark. In relation to the latter, I'd say that there's no scientifically accepted evidence of any connection between UFOs and extraterrestrials. If you postulate that extraterrestrials and their spacecraft exist somewhere (presumably because you think it would be logically impossible for them not to exist, somewhere), it's a bit of a stretch to state with certainty that they can be nowhere near Earth. JackofOz 14:18, 29 January 2006 (UTC)
When you consider the huge number of stars in the universe, and presumably planets, it is possible to be, say 99.9% sure there are aliens somewhere but also, say, 99.9% sure they never visited here. A similar example would be that I can be 99.9% sure there is a grain of sand on a beach somewhere consisting mainly of uranium, but can also be 99.9% sure that is not true of a random sand grain I pick up. StuRat 14:49, 29 January 2006 (UTC)
Considering the fact that those chances you mention are all exactly 99.9%, I'm 99.9% sure you made them up. I just hope you don't do that here 99.9% of the time.
Mark, that 99.9% of the people use a word in a certain way does not mean that they're right. Truth is not a matter of democracy. DirkvdM 17:56, 29 January 2006 (UTC)
Normally I would disagree and say a word means whatever most people think it means, since that's the way language evolves. However, an acronym can't mean anything besides what is stands for, as far as I'm concerend, so I agree in this case. StuRat 19:02, 29 January 2006 (UTC)
Oh, no no no. "USA" means the home of baseball, even though there are other unions of states in the Americas. RADAR is a specific system for radio detection and ranging, even though there could be other systems which detect and range with radio waves. Mark1 19:11, 29 January 2006 (UTC)
Extraterrestrial - originating, existing, or occurring (italics added) outside the earth or its atmosphere. So of course that means any earth launched satellite could be by definition extraterrestrial, CambridgeBayWeather (Talk) 19:19, 29 January 2006 (UTC)

If intelligent aliens, other than those humans who cross national boundaries of planet Earth, visit us from outside of planet Earth, such as from the outer space being studied by SETI, time travelers, or some cross time universe speculated about by science fiction, I would expect them to use pretty good stealth technology, compared to what we have developed. User:AlMac|(talk) 01:39, 30 January 2006 (UTC)

The extraterrestrial hypothesis is just that. It may one day be proven. It will never be disproven. In the meantime, we can debate all we like as long as we understand we'll never get any nearer the truth this way. JackofOz 02:05, 30 January 2006 (UTC)
Of course, if some space craft were found that was definitely not of human origin, that would not necessarily mean it came from beyond the Earth. Jacques Vallee and others have long argued that humans are not the only humanoid beings on this planet. JackofOz 14:20, 30 January 2006 (UTC)
UFOs are created by NASA at Area 51, of course. User:Zoe|(talk) 17:20, 30 January 2006 (UTC)

[edit] Tommy Lee Jones

What Happend to Tommy Lee Jones' face, or was he born like that?

Could you be more specific? Dismas|(talk) 06:04, 29 January 2006 (UTC)
I'm not sure the tone of that question is very nice, considering he has had three wives who (apparently) did not object to his face. According to Tommy Lee Jones, he is 59 years of age, so he has every right to look a little worn. And if there's something wrong with Tommy Lee, then how much of a disaster is Clint Eastwood?
According to this site, the "lines on his weathered face are ones of age and experience." He is of Cherokee (and Welsh) extraction, which might explain his stoic appearance by way of genetics. KWH
I wouldn't be surprised if drugs, alcohol, and smoking also played a role. StuRat 07:56, 29 January 2006 (UTC)

[edit] Keyboards

What was the original reason to have "Shift", "Ctrl", and "Alt" keys on our keyboards? Why are they named that? There's got to be some reason going back to the early days of keyboards, but I can't for the life of me think of why.

--72.226.54.254 05:25, 29 January 2006 (UTC)

You might try reading Control key, Alt key, and Shift key. -- Rick Block (talk) 05:44, 29 January 2006 (UTC)
You might, but only one of the three explains where the names come from -- Control. As to Shift, that goes back to typewriters. On most typewriters each typebar has a pair of characters, such as "S" and "s", only one of which is so aligned that it will actually be typed when the corresponding key is hit. The shift key physically shifts either the platen (roller) or the basket of type bars upward by a few millimeters so that the other one of the two characters will be typed. --Anonymous, 07:17 UTC, January 29.
I've always assumed 'Alt' stands for 'Alternative' because it gives keys an alternative meaning to a key. DirkvdM 10:00, 29 January 2006 (UTC)
'Alt' means 'alternate'; that nugget of info is in the AltGr key article. I'd always assumed that Alt Gr was for typing Ancient Greek, but I was wrong. Mark1 14:05, 29 January 2006 (UTC)
Sprechen Sie Deutsch, jawohl? DirkvdM 18:04, 29 January 2006 (UTC)
Mehr Deutsch als Altgriechisch! Mark1 19:15, 29 January 2006 (UTC)
Nein. StuRat 19:15, 29 January 2006 (UTC)
don't be silly. The "alt" key gives you your computer's height above see level. Grutness...wha? 00:33, 30 January 2006 (UTC)

I believe the CONTROL button was supposed to return control to the user, when a program was not accepting inputs, such as with CONTROL C. StuRat 14:43, 29 January 2006 (UTC)

So sort of like the panic button on a midi keyboard. Funny, then, how 'control' and 'panic' can have a similar meaning. DirkvdM 18:04, 29 January 2006 (UTC)
This is just wrong. Do see Control key. --Anon, 21:53 UTC, January 29.
I like to irritate my techy friends by insisting on calling it the 'citrel' key. Proto t c 11:42, 30 January 2006 (UTC)
I used to call it that before I knew what it stood for. Except I don't think I ever said it out loud. --Optichan 15:18, 30 January 2006 (UTC)

[edit] a group of horses is called?..

a "herd of horses" is the default term, though there are also context-specific group nouns for them - including wikt:remuda, Harras, stable, stud, team, and troop. GeeJo (t) (c) • 12:51, 29 January 2006 (UTC)
In polo they are called a "string". StuRat 14:36, 29 January 2006 (UTC)
Interesting. That's also a collective noun specifically for ponies. JackofOz 19:40, 29 January 2006 (UTC)

[edit] Waste

I want to know about different kinds of waste like- i)Bio-degradable Waste ii)Non Bio-Degradable Waste iii)Bio-Medical Wastes iv)Toxic Waste v)Non-Toxic Waste

Why not read the article on Waste as well as the articles linked from that one? Dismas|(talk) 15:04, 29 January 2006 (UTC)

[edit] Template

A wikipedia related question. In Template:Indian Philosophy, I want "Buddhist Philosophy" to appear in a single line. How do I do that? I'm posting it here, coz I know this way I'll get the fastest answer. Thanks! deeptrivia (talk) 15:29, 29 January 2006 (UTC)

Kludge fix applied. CambridgeBayWeather (Talk) 15:42, 29 January 2006 (UTC)

[edit] the kinds of fish that cats like to eat

Hello, I was at a fish market yesterday and was wondering what types of fish my siamese cats might like to eat. I know they like sole and salmon, but there are so many others kinds that I have not tried. Do you know of any types of fish other than what I have mentioned that my cats might like to try (as I prefer not to use trial and error because that could get quite expensive!) Thank you.

Our cat article doesn't have specifics for your query, but I suggest you check with your veterinarian first to see what kinds of fish are or aren't good for your cats. --King of All the Franks 17:08, 29 January 2006 (UTC)
I believe you two are overthinking it a bit, just pick the cheapest fish and I'm sure they will love it and it will be good for them. Any fish has got to be better than what comes in a cat food can. You might want to get a fish that doesn't stink too bad, in case the cats leave some on their plates for later. StuRat 17:50, 29 January 2006 (UTC)
Mine has a particular liking for cheap canned tuna but will not eat expensive Arctic char. By the way canned cat food is not that bad (compared to canned dog food). CambridgeBayWeather (Talk) 17:58, 29 January 2006 (UTC)
Yea, these days I feel guilty when I pour the tuna fish juice down the sink, back from when I had a cat that loved it. StuRat 18:49, 29 January 2006 (UTC)
I can half attest to that, having once tried dog food (in my real low down dirt cheap living days). Just one bite was more than enough. However, I didn't 'bump up' to cat food but went straight back to human food, so I can't attest to the other half, so I can't really to attest the whole. Anyway, you may have already learned to ignore me. If not already, then by now, I presume. Anyway it's late and my brain doesn't seem to function properly anymore. DirkvdM 18:12, 29 January 2006 (UTC)
And dried dog/cat food is worse than either type of canned, with the Milk Bone dog biscuits being the worst of all. CambridgeBayWeather (Talk) 18:20, 29 January 2006 (UTC)
Dry food is better for their teeth, as it's the closest most dogs and cats get to brushing. StuRat 18:44, 29 January 2006 (UTC)
  • Catfish, oh common, how has nobody said that yet? -- user:anoncatfisherman 17:15, 30 January 2006 (UTC)

[edit] Menstration

I am 17 years old and well i have a problem i got my period 2 weeks after my last one ended and about 9 days after my period ended i had unprotected sex and 4 days after that i got my period again what could be the cause of it.

IANAD, but as far as I know, it's unlikely that the problem occurred as a result of having unprotected sex. There are, however, a number of possible causes for metrorrhagia/Polymenorrhea, and you should consult a gynaecologist for a proper diagnosis and (if necessary) treatment course. GeeJo (t) (c) • 19:14, 29 January 2006 (UTC)
What does "IANAD" mean, and is there a list anywhere of these ubiquitescent conversational acronyms? JackofOz 19:35, 29 January 2006 (UTC)
See IANAL. —Keenan Pepper 19:53, 29 January 2006 (UTC)
you (Jack) might also like to check Wikipedia:Glossary. Grutness...wha? 00:36, 30 January 2006 (UTC)
Thanks. JackofOz 04:26, 30 January 2006 (UTC)
I had unprotected sex.... Well, there you go right there. Pacific Coast Highway|Leave a message ($.25) 02:17, 30 January 2006 (UTC)
Are you trying to scare her even more when its obvious she doesn't know what's going on with her body to begin with? Dismas|(talk) 03:38, 30 January 2006 (UTC)
IANAD either, but it seems pretty clear the problem has nothing to do with that incident of unprotected sex, as the first irregular period occured beforehand. Superm401 - Talk 02:54, 4 February 2006 (UTC)
As GeeJo says, you should see a gynecologist if you're concerned. There's many possible causes, but random people on the internet are hardly qualified to pinpoint them. Believe me that your gynecologist has seen and heard everything, so don't ever be shy about asking her your questions. — Laura Scudder ☎ 01:50, 31 January 2006 (UTC)

[edit] The inhibiting lead

Leading companies are less likely to change than newer companies. There is a theory called "The inhibiting lead". Is there any information available about this concept?

Yes, and I wrote it. It's under diseconomies of scale#Inertia (unwillingness to change) and diseconomies of scale#Slow response time. StuRat 19:22, 29 January 2006 (UTC)

[edit] Crime Scene Investigation

Hopefully someone watched the Quentin Tarantino episode. I watched it yesterday, but what I would like to know is what type of explosives did the lab technician say was underneath the "coffin"? Replies are most helpful, thanks. KILO-LIMA 22:10, 29 January 2006 (UTC)

I found a transcript of the episode online, the line was "Those dimples on the bottom of the prototype - GCMS found traces of semtex on each one." --Canley 00:52, 30 January 2006 (UTC)
Thanks! KILO-LIMA 16:51, 30 January 2006 (UTC)

"Hopefully someone watched the Quentin Tarantino episode." - The Understatement of the Year Award officially goes to you, m'dear.

[edit] January 30

[edit] Charmed

Could anyone tell me where to find the pilot of Charmed? Zach 01:12, 30 January 2006 (UTC)

Amazon or probably Netflix. Dismas|(talk) 01:19, 30 January 2006 (UTC)

[edit] Apocalyptic Decline of Our World!!

A blue-covered book about both science and Christianity, called "Life -How did it get here?By evolution or by creation?", talked about a so-called "Conclusion to the System of Things".It said that after 1914, the beginning of the First World War, there has been much more suffering,problems and terrible events in the world(not just during World War I) than before that time.It said that there has been alot of great wars,violence, famine,earthquakes,disease,crime,immorality, and fear/insecurity,etc in the 20th century.It showed that this is quite true.After all, 1914 has been refered to as the great turning point in the world's modern history!Some Christians say that the world is getting worse and worse and it will end soon.Is that really true?If so, then why do some people say that the world is getting better? Is the world getting better or getting worse?If it is getting worse, than what could we do about it?How are we going to going to make the world a better and safer place to live in? Some think this belief about the "post-1914 world" is just pessismistic, or that it is caused by the media keeping on talking about bad news.But those Christians seem to think that way for religious reasons.I don't know why, but read Matthew Chapter 24,Mark Chapter 13, and Luke Chapter 17 vs.20-37 of the Bible. If you don't know the answers to these questions, then please ask others about it.You should write a letter to you church(if you go to one),you local government,your national government, or even the United Nations about this subject.

Media:User:Bowei

Life used to come in the mail, if you subscribed, or you could buy it on any newsstand. These days, though, it's just a weekend newspaper insert. --Aaron 03:49, 30 January 2006 (UTC)
People have been saying this for thousands of years. See Eschatology. ‣ᓛᖁ♀ᑐ 04:11, 30 January 2006 (UTC)
A bit of doggerel which I remember, though I don't know from where (It may indeed have been Ogden Nash):
My grandfather, while pondering the world's cogs,
Said "This place is going to the dogs."
His grandfather, in the Flemish bogs,
Said "This place is going to the dogs."
His grandfather, in his old skin togs,
Said "This place is going to the dogs."
Now, there's one thing I've got to state,
Those dogs have had a long time to wait."
KWH 05:06, 30 January 2006 (UTC)
A variant on the same theme, which I always enjoyed; The King Shimgray | talk | 22:06, 30 January 2006 (UTC)
Talkorigins.org has something on that particular book. And remember, Wikipedia is not a place to proselytize. Haikupoet 04:27, 30 January 2006 (UTC)
Not even to let people know the world is about to end? alteripse 11:13, 30 January 2006 (UTC)
I don't know; it strays awfully close to original research... smurrayinchester(User), (Talk) 18:27, 30 January 2006 (UTC)

Becoming a pirate will fix everything: "...global warming, earthquakes, hurricanes, and other natural disasters are a direct effect of the shrinking numbers of pirates since the 1800s." From the Flying Spaghetti Monster website.

  • Damn, you learn something new everyday, ARG!!! IM A PIRATE AND I BELIBE IN GLOBAL WARMNING!!! ARG!! MAKE LIKE OF CONVICTION AND MORALS CAUSES ME TO MOCK PEOPLE'S BELIEF BECAUSE IMA FRAID OF PEOPLE OF FAITH!!! ARG!! JESUS IS EVIL!! SO SAY WE WIKI leftists PIRATES!!! -- anonwikipirate

[edit] Unprepared food Information

In the U.S. Why does some food packaging have the nutritional information for food in its unprepared state? Who really wants to eat an unprepared cake mix?

The nutritional information is only for what is in the package. They can't control if you use low-fat milk or whole milk in your cereal, for instance. Rmhermen 04:43, 30 January 2006 (UTC)

I mean, On these boxes, there are 2 columns of nutritional information. For Example, on a cake mix. one column has the nutritional information in a unprepared state (as in right out of the box) and ther other column has the information in the prepared version (as in fully baked). Why would they list the information in an unprepared state? Who would want to eat it that way?

Like what Rmhermen said, they can't control what you use it for so they put the info on there for just what is in the box itself. For instance, pancake mix can be used for different things and not just pancakes. So they give you the info for what's in the box and it's up to you, if you really want to know, to get the nutritional info on whatever else you put in. Dismas|(talk) 09:34, 30 January 2006 (UTC)
  • And of course, if you overcook, or bake too long you might lose nutrients, for which they cannot account in advance. - Mgm|(talk) 10:14, 30 January 2006 (UTC)

Nobody is getting this. The prepared state nutritional information is differnt from the unprepared state. The Prepared state information contains the information for if you FOLLOWED the directions. It's differnt in that way.

I think the others who answered this question were wholly aware that the prepared nutritional information was differnt from the unprepared nutritional information. The answers they provided for this difference seemed fair and logical to me.
It might help to think of this in terms of lagalities. The unprepared version is what the company is required by law to provide. The prepared version is a guide for the shoppers convenience. -LambaJan 21:44, 30 January 2006 (UTC)

So tell me then...Who and why would someone eat raw cake mix or unpopped popcorn?

because they want to?? -LambaJan 03:12, 31 January 2006 (UTC)

[edit] Puree Berries, why do they stink?

Hi, I am a chocolatier, and every time that I puree berries, specifically raspberry and stawberry, I am taken back by their horrible smell? I have searched and searched and cannot find out why they smell when pureed?


Please please tell me, when I puree berries, why do they smell like poop?

Thank you very much, Jennifer in Austin

I can't recall ever having this problem. Are you pureêing them them by themselves and adding them to the chocolate later? And I can safely assume you're using fresh washed berries. Correct? -LambaJan 21:48, 30 January 2006 (UTC)
Ok, I looked it up, and assuming you're taking care of all of the obvious things... Both of those types of berries are acidic and sweet- a deadly combination. The delicate flavors arise mainly from certain chemical compounds and naturally occuring enzymes. Even in cold storage these fruits start to break down rapidly and go through many changes before they become bad or reach a point where humans decide it's best to throw them out.
"Pureeing mixes the cell contents with eachother and with oxygen in the air, so enzyme action and oxidation begin immediately... The best way to minimize this change is to chill the puree, which slows all chemical reactions." (Harold McGee - On Food and Cooking (the best food book ever))
Strawberries and rasberries both freeze well, and that's usually how I buy them. You're probably spoiled with fresh ones all year in Austin. My advice is to freeze them as soon as you get them, use them soon anyway, and puree them while they're still frozen. -LambaJan 04:43, 1 February 2006 (UTC)

[edit] Australian Height

What is the average height for Australian men and women? --Ali K 04:58, 30 January 2006 (UTC)

See Average height. David Sneek 08:48, 30 January 2006 (UTC)
Thanks! I was googling for hours and didn't think of such a broad article in wikipedia.--Ali K 10:26, 30 January 2006 (UTC)
If that list would have been by height in stead of alphabetical it would be clearer what it means to grow up in a dairy consuming country. At least, that's the reason that is usually given for the Dutch being so tall. By the way, the tallest people on Earth are suposed to be the Maasai (although the article doesn't say anything about that). DirkvdM 11:48, 30 January 2006 (UTC)
Done (by height : 20 first countries). --DLL 13:54, 31 January 2006 (UTC)
Nice graph (although it 'grows' towards the right). So the tallest average person should be walking around here somewhere. I'll keep a look-out. :) DirkvdM 09:09, 1 February 2006 (UTC)
The tallest average person... :) Superm401 - Talk 02:57, 4 February 2006 (UTC)

[edit] Very strange question about wars and fps games

This is a very strange question but i am curious. In arcade fps games about wars, the weapons don't do many damage on soldier (because the damage is low, or the defence of the soldier is high), they have many bullets.... . Many players in this wars act like rambo when playing. There are some realistic fps war games the don't have this.

In every war the weapons of the soldiers gets better, and the armor too. So my strange questions is what was the most arcadish war [don't need to be a veeeeeeery famous war (need to be a war with firearms)]??

The most arcadish FPS i have played is Command & Conquer: Renegade  Run!  09:36, 30 January 2006 (UTC)
I would hesitate to characterize any war as "arcadeish"; the sense of self-preservation occuring in war just isn't duplicated in a video game. You might, however, find specific incidents: many people would consider Alvin York's virtually unassisted capture of a German company in World War I to be the stuff of video games. — Lomn Talk 14:23, 30 January 2006 (UTC)

run! i was talking what was the most arcade war, not game. I will make another question, if the game developers was making very realistic fps games for every firearm war, what game would be the most arcade game? (If anyone game will be arcade, what game will be the least non-arcade game)

To my knowledge, the most realistic war (first person shooter) game for PC is Counter-Strike. I don't know about arcade, though. -LambaJan 21:51, 30 January 2006 (UTC)

I don't know the answer of the question, but counter strike isn't the most realistic FPS game of the world (he is a very arcade game), the most realistic fps is VBS1 or virtual battlefield system and is used to train soldiers, but you can use as a game.

[edit] How much hard disk space does Wikipedia use

How much Hard Disk space does wikipeida use by language:

eg. If I downloaded the entire English Wiki, how many data-DVD's would I require to archive it?

You don't have to reply to me, maybe just update the wikipedia entry in wikipedia...

Thanks freddie@iafrica.com

See for yourself at http://download.wikimedia.org/
If memory serves, the english wikipedia (all versions, and all uploaded files) is on the order of several gigabytes. Commons is VERY large, around 200 gigabytes or so. Raul654 07:18, 30 January 2006 (UTC)
According to the link the compressed file containing all the current articles is 997.1 MB, which seems remarkably small. I don't know what it uncompresses to, though. Mark1 17:51, 30 January 2006 (UTC)
That's just for the text of current pages, and descriptions of images instead of the images themselves. If I'm reading this correctly, the English Wikipedia, if you include all pages with complete edit histories and images, it's 20.1GB as of today (Monday UTC), when compressed with bzip2. And it includes this ominous warning: "These dumps can be *very* large, uncompressing up to 20-100 times the archive download size." So, if my calculations are correct, you could end up needing as many as 428 DVD-Rs to burn the entire thing. Have fun! --Aaron 02:27, 31 January 2006 (UTC)

[edit] untanning beds ?

Greetings to all!!! :D..... has anyone ever heard of a certain untanning bed or some sort ? i heard someone mentioning it, i dont know if this is true, but it does the exact opposite of a tanning bed, allegedly you place some green gel and god knows what else, and it reduces melanin, to the point where it bleaches your skin, i dont know the particular name of the item, and i was hopping that some one could answer these please :D thank you for your time :D

Hmm... Skin paler.... Now that's hot. ☢ Ҡieff⌇↯ 10:13, 30 January 2006 (UTC)
Goths would just love it!  :-) Dismas|(talk) 12:49, 30 January 2006 (UTC)
I love a pale skin. I wish this did exist and was popular. :3 ☢ Ҡieff⌇↯ 12:53, 30 January 2006 (UTC)
You're not the only one. I'm a fan of many skin tones but I think this idea has the added benefit of being more healthy than the tanning beds in use now. Dismas|(talk) 13:00, 30 January 2006 (UTC)
I bet it's not dihydroxyacetone. Gentgeen 10:22, 30 January 2006 (UTC)

Sure, it's called a Cave (TM). It takes a few hundred generations, but it works, and they're working on speeding it up, and the patience is probably good for you. alteripse 11:12, 30 January 2006 (UTC)

Mercury is an excellent skin bleacher. However, it does have a few inconvenient side effects, such as causing severe central nervous system damage and death. Hydroquinone will do it also, in small amounts. That's what they use in age-spot cream that you can buy at most pharmacies (I think those contain 2% hydroquinone). Standard disclaimer: I'm not a doctor, I don't suggest you run out and buy 5-gallon jugs of hydroquinone from a chemical supply house, etc. However, you may want to run a web search on Michael Jackson. --Aaron 02:37, 31 January 2006 (UTC)
Michael Jackson has never used an untanning bed, and has never had cosmetic plastic surgury. -LambaJan 16:40, 1 February 2006 (UTC)
yes he did, cant you see the before and after pictures ? , i dont know if that exists man, im sorry.

[edit] IS I A D CATOGORISED IN THE DSM

IS INTERNET ADDICTION DISORDER, CATOGORISED IN THE DSM

Please don't shout. And which DSM do you mean? (There are no less than 12 entries in the 'computer' section!) DirkvdM 11:54, 30 January 2006 (UTC)
Not yet. See Internet addiction disorder. ☢ Ҡieff⌇↯ 12:03, 30 January 2006 (UTC)
There's an Internet addiction disorder article? Oh my God. Goldberg created IAD as a joke! (See [69].) That page needs a serious rewrite; maybe even an AfD. --Aaron 02:46, 31 January 2006 (UTC)

[edit] Nintendo DS wi-fi

I have just purchased a Nintendo DS and have wireless braodband at home. How do i enable the wi-fi function on the DS? thank you

PS. Will Prince of Persia: The Two Thrones and Tetris be available in the near future for the DS

Here is a press release from NOA on Tetris. Battles of Prince of Persia is the only PoP game that I know of for the DS. Nintendo Wi-Fi Connection might be able to help you get connected. --Optichan 15:38, 30 January 2006 (UTC)

[edit] A word from Occultism

Hi friends, I want to know the name of the practice of moving things without touching them. It is an Occult practice, but there is one word for this practice in the english dictionary as well. Thanking you Rajiv Kejriwal INDIA.

I think you're thinking of Psychokinesis which is also often called telekinesis. Dismas|(talk) 13:07, 30 January 2006 (UTC)

[edit] A Global map of projected sea levels rising due to Global Warming.

Hi there, I'm trying to find a map or maps which give detailed projections on sea levels due to rise because of global warming. I'm particularty interested in England, Italy and Sicily, Spain, Croatia, Africa and the surrounding islands. I have searched on the net but can't find anything. Any help would be appreciated. Thanks .... C

You may want to move this question to the Sciences section - it might attract the attention of a climatologist.  Run!  17:03, 30 January 2006 (UTC)
Oh not this climate change bullshit again--152.163.100.199 22:07, 30 January 2006 (UTC)
You're not a pirate, are you? -LambaJan 03:19, 31 January 2006 (UTC)
Wiki has articles on sea level rise and global warming from which you can get at some figure like how many feet the ocean levels are expected to rise in how many decades. Then you go to a regular map of various nations that shows how many feet various places are above sea level to find out which coastal cities of which nations are likely to follow the example of New Orleans if efforts are not taken to raise the level of the land on which new buildings get placed. User:AlMac|(talk) 08:46, 31 January 2006 (UTC)
There's not just the question of how high land is above or below (!) sea level. It's also a matter of protection. About half of the Netherlands is below sea level, but protected by dykes (no, StuRat, we've already heard that joke :) ). So is Death Valley in the US, but that's procted by coastal mountain ranges. And a large area North of the Caspian Sea, but that's well away from any seas. And New Orleans, of course, and that wasn't protected well enough. For a more complete list (though I don't know how complete it is) see List of places on land with elevations below sea level. We've got a list on everything, don't we? But then do we have a list like the one asked for? We should have, I suppose, but I can't find it. Mind you, there are other factors at work. It's not just the average sea level rise but also the heating of the sea, which will cause more hurricanes (such as the one that swamped New Orleans). Such a storm combined with high tide or even spring tide (such as during the North Sea flood of 1953) will aggravate things even more. And a straightened and smoothed river (for the benefit of shipping) can cause a surging sea to reach further inland. And don't forget the increased rainfall we can expect. The water threat doesn't come just from the sea, but also from the rivers. All these factors (except hurricanes) are at play in the Netherlands, so people around here should be a little more worried than they are. DirkvdM 20:26, 31 January 2006 (UTC)

[edit] Is this true?

Spoiler warning: Plot and/or ending details about the Harry Potter series follow.


While wandering around YTMND, I found hhrfails.ytmnd.com Tell me it isn't so? Pacific Coast Highway|Leave a message ($.25) 14:42, 30 January 2006 (UTC)

What, you hadn't figured that out already? =P —Keenan Pepper 15:20, 30 January 2006 (UTC)
Dude, GAFF has lots of bits about the crazy H/HR shippers! Like the one that left the really stupid "I quit the fandom because I'm not getting my way' note.
I guess it's not that bad...right... Pacific Coast Highway|Leave a message ($.25) 20:16, 30 January 2006 (UTC)
Well, they seem to think her middle name is Kathleen, so they can do with some education anyway. JackofOz 21:33, 30 January 2006 (UTC)

[edit] Judith Skutch Whitson

I am trying to contact Judith Skutch Whitson of the Foundation for Inner Peace. Can anyone let me have her e-mail address please? Also can you confirm that her address is still PO Box 1104, Glen Ellen, California 95442?

Try Welcome to A Course in Miracles, they have contact infromation. CambridgeBayWeather (Talk) 16:45, 30 January 2006 (UTC)
Based on their WHOIS data, a more effective address is probably
6 Venado Drive
Tiburon, CA, 94920-1626
1.41546978
--Superm401 - Talk 03:03, 4 February 2006 (UTC)

[edit] Entrepreneurial Moms

I would like to find the number of mothers who start new businesses every year. In other words, what type of growth is there in the number of Entreprenerial Moms?

Thank you.

MomResearcher

You might have better luck contacting the folks at Working Mother magazine. They may have the statistics you seek. Dismas|(talk) 22:36, 30 January 2006 (UTC)

[edit] Interior design

What is the difference between accesories and incidental elements in interior designing

I would assume 'accessories' are things, and 'incidental elements' are things that happen to match.

[edit] family Van Craeynest

I am trying to trace an old noble family of Flemish extraction called Van Craeynest. Any help would be appreciated

More information would be helpful. As is I can direct you to http://www.familysearch.org, which is free as a service by the Church of Latter Day Saints. All of their European entries for the name are from Ingelmunster, West Flanders, Belgium. — Laura Scudder ☎ 01:36, 31 January 2006 (UTC)
I wouldn't expect to find that much information on-line. While the US government has done a commendable job at digitizing their census data, not many other countries have followed that example yet. However, apart from that it shouldn't be a major problem if they indeed are nobles as you say. That usually means a well-documented family history. It also means that few other families (if any) will have that name. You will probably need to go poking around in Dutch and/or Belgian archives to find what you want though, unless it's a very prominent family. --BluePlatypus 17:27, 31 January 2006 (UTC)

[edit] A-805 Army Airfield

I was stationed at A-805 Army Airfield in Taegu Korea from 1966 till 1968 I have tryed to find out what ever happened to that airfield and so far it looks as though the Daegu Airport is built on that site. Are Taegu and Daegu the same city? Are there any web sites that would give me historical information or photos of A-805 as it changed as the years went by? I trully enjoyed my time in Korea and have always wondered how much it must have changed over the years. I would appreciate any info ,photos, or web sites to learn more, thank you so much for your help. Tom Barnhill

Our article on Daegu begins "Daegu or Taegu is the 3rd largest city in South Korea". It includes pictures of the town and surrounding hills. Rmhermen 18:17, 30 January 2006 (UTC)
Tom, does your old Army unit have an association for ex-soldiers? If so, they would probably have information on the history of that airfield. Also, doesn't the US Army have historians who keep track of this sort of thing? --Robert Merkel 03:50, 31 January 2006 (UTC)

[edit] How many 2006 US dollars would it take to reach the value of same in 1946

I need to know how many dollars a person would have to contribute in 2006 to be as generous as a person contributing one dollar in 1946.

Is this just a complicated way of asking how much the USD has inflated since WWII? Or do I misunderstand what '2006 USD' means? DirkvdM 18:13, 30 January 2006 (UTC)
Yeah it basically looks like a homework question and doesn't have an obvious, unambiguous answer. One answer would be how much $ in todays dollars would a dollar from 1946 be worth just considering inflation. Another could be what if $1 was invested in government bonds or stocks in 1946, how much would you have to contribute today to equal that? Either is a time value of money question, just differs on the interest rate you use, so see that article. - Taxman Talk 23:59, 30 January 2006 (UTC)
Since it's been five days, and it's so easy to find...an inflation calculation using on the Consumer Price Index claims the value is 10.27. Superm401 - Talk 03:07, 4 February 2006 (UTC)

[edit] Most valuable currency

What is the most valuable currency in the world; ie: the one which, if 1 unit (£1, €1, 1¥) was changed into dollars or euros, which currency would be worth most? smurrayinchester(User), (Talk) 22:06, 30 January 2006 (UTC)

I believe it's currently the Great Britan Pound. [70] -LambaJan 22:30, 30 January 2006 (UTC)
It's actually the Kuwaiti Dinar, which is worth $3.44 [71]. The least-valuable currency, not including the old Turkish Lira, is the Zimbabwean Dollar, which is worth about 1/1000 of 1 cent. -- Mwalcoff 23:37, 30 January 2006 (UTC)
Ahh, thank you. I thought the table they gave me was rather small... -LambaJan 03:21, 31 January 2006 (UTC)
Didn't I see an article somewhere around this Wiki which gave the full answer to this question? --cesarb 14:22, 31 January 2006 (UTC)
Well, there was an article with exchange rates, but that got removed because there is no place in an encyclopedia for values that have changed by the time they are placed in the article :) . But of course we should have a link, so chech out the ones at the bottom of the Exchange rate article. DirkvdM 20:32, 31 January 2006 (UTC)

[edit] citation

Say you use an in-text citation once in a paragraph to credit one source. Do you have to re-site that source each time you use further information from it? Or is one citation enough per paragraph?

--Shadarian 22:42, 30 January 2006 (UTC)

What do you mean by citing? Do you mean a paranthetical reference to the book and page number (or whatver) that you are citing, or do you mean referencing the author/work? You probably only need to use the paranthetical reference once, but if citing a source more than once, you should make it clear within your text that you are citing the same source. 204.108.96.18 23:43, 30 January 2006 (UTC)
I'd say that depends on whether you have other citations in-between or not. E.g. "The ball has been observed to be round (Abel, 2005), as well as heavy (Baker, 2006). Further, it has been suggested that it may be composed of granite.". Now it's not clear where that last proposition came from, so a citation is needed. Although in this case you'd probably do better to group the opinions by source. This also varies of course with what you're writing. If it's a scientific paper, you need to back up every single nontrivial statement, but in other cases you may be able to take greater liberties. You can also go overboard with too many citations, I've seen a scientific paper with 40 citations in the first paragraph, which is just ridiculous. --BluePlatypus 00:02, 31 January 2006 (UTC)

That makes sense. Thanks. --Shadarian 00:46, 31 January 2006 (UTC)

  • Also, one approach that many people use in the humanities is to cite at the end of a paragraph which contains only information from one souce. That is, if you use one book to write a whole paragraph (or even a short section), a single citation should suffice in making it clear where the information comes from. Remember the goal of citation is to answer the question, "Where's he getting this information from?" If that is clear then the exact formalities of it are less important. And if it is something that nobody is going to ask (i.e. "The White House is white" will not provoke such a suspicious question), then it probably doesn't need to be cited at all. --Fastfission 15:21, 31 January 2006 (UTC)

[edit] Super Bowl XL

I agree that The Steelers might be a dangerous, but with Pittsburg being favored, Why aren't the Seahawks getting any credit?

Credit for what? They got to the Super Bowl, what else do they need credit for? Dismas|(talk) 23:11, 30 January 2006 (UTC)
It's because, although Seattle is good on every front, the teams they beat to get to the Superbowl, although very good, were not as good as the teams Pittsburg beat to get there. Pittsburg already beat the two teams that were favored to get to and win the Superbowl earlier in the season.
Also, Seattle's beating Carolina was largely due to their shutting down Smith. Without him available the Panther's offense fell apart. If they try that same tactic and shut down Bettis, then they still have to contend with Ward and Rothlisberger. And Pittsburg has more recent playoff experience and are geographically closer to the playing field.
It's entirely possible that Seattle can make the correct adjustments to come through for a win. They are good enough, but the circumstances seem to be favoring Pittsburg. Besides, Seattle is getting credit. They have the league MVP and a nice trophy to boot. -LambaJan 03:33, 31 January 2006 (UTC)

[edit] Sandbox

Has anybody else noticed that, among the interlanguage links on the Wikipedia:Sandbox page, the Hebrew and Finnish links are not to the testing page but rather to Sandbox? Pretty weird, huh? The correct link for the Finnish one should be Wikipedia:Sandbox, not Sandbox, and for Hebrew it should be Wikipedia:Sandbox instead of Sandbox. I can't figure out how to change the links myself, so... Just a thought! СПУТНИКССС Р 23:35, 30 January 2006 (UTC)

Well the Finnish doesn't link back to the English either. And they appear to be set up specifically so you can't easily edit those kinds of things, but I didn't immediately see how to get around it. In any case you should move this question to the help desk where questions about wikipedia should go. - Taxman Talk 23:54, 30 January 2006 (UTC)
The interwiki links are part of the template, Template:Please leave this line alone (sandbox heading). Please be bold and correct them. —Keenan Pepper 01:31, 31 January 2006 (UTC)

[edit] Why would a piece of art work by entered in a court district?

We are looking for information about an Albert Bierstadt , engraving of the Rocky Mountains. It has on it: entered according to Act of Congress in the year of 1866 by Edward Bierstadt in the clerks office of the U.S. District Court for the Southern District of New York. Why would it be entered? WE would greatly appreciate any info you could tell us.

Please mail to:
J. Marshall
215 High St.
Chillciothe OH 45601
Again, thank you.
Cordially,
J. Marshall--216.255.3.54 00:03, 31 January 2006 (UTC)
  • Please check back here for possible answers to your inquiry. hydnjo talk 01:24, 31 January 2006 (UTC)
J Marshall - just in case you got tired of checking the mailbox and came back, that's just a standard 'copright notice' of the time, prior to the Berne Convention and automatic copyright. Per [72]:
"Be it enacted by the Senate and House of Representatives of the United States of America in Congress assembled, That every person who shall, from and after the first day of January next, claim to be the author ...[deletia]... shall cause the following words to be impressed on the face thereof, viz: "Entered according to act of Congress, the _________________ day of _________________ 18 _________________ (here insert the date when the same was deposited in the office) by A. B. of the State of _________________ (here insert the author's or proprietor's name and the State in which he resides).""
KWH 02:57, 31 January 2006 (UTC)
For info about the painter, see Albert Bierstadt. Edward was his brother [73]. Lupo 11:19, 1 February 2006 (UTC)

[edit] January 31

[edit] pronounciation of vitor belfort

How do you pronounce the word "vitor", do you pronounce it like victor or v-tor or vi-tor(vi for "vice" like that), i dont get it? well the first name came from the MMA fighter vitor belfort and he is brazilian so maybe theres a hint.

I would suspect vee-Tor with emphasis on the capitalized letter. However, you might get a better answer at the language reference desk. -LambaJan 21:22, 31 January 2006 (UTC)
  • v-tor. By the way, when you say "vi-tor" don't you mean "vie-tor", otherwise I can't see any difference between the two. - Mgm|(talk) 10:24, 1 February 2006 (UTC)

[edit] Pan Galactic Gargle Slushie

The List of references in Neopets article says there's a Pan Galactic Gargle Slushie, But I can't find any evidence of this anywhere. Help? DuctapeDaredevil 01:12, 31 January 2006 (UTC)

It's probably referring to the Pan Galactic Gargle Blaster which was a drink in the Hitchhiker's Guide to the Galaxy series by Douglas Adams. Ah! It's already in the article and you're wondering where it is in the game, not where the reference is from... I got it now. I have no idea as I've never played the game before and only have a vague idea of what "Neopets" is. Dismas|(talk) 01:31, 31 January 2006 (UTC)
Try searching for it in the search box, the shops, auctions, trading post, etc. You're bound to find it eventually. --Optichan 14:48, 31 January 2006 (UTC)
Check it out at neoitems.net. You have to register with NeoItems to see it though. So if you can find it through Neopets there's no reason to register immediately. --Optichan 20:47, 31 January 2006 (UTC)

[edit] Fear of the Dark

I have lithophobia--or, more precisely, I have an irrational fear of ghosts, aliens, and other supernatural things. It's not because I believe in these things, because I don't. Yet every time I hear/read about ghost "sightings", "alien abductions", etc, I get afraid to leave my bedroom at night. Any advice? I'm not willing to seek professional help or spend any money on this. Bowlhover 02:13, 31 January 2006 (UTC)

  • Well, if this is actually getting in the way of your life, you really should seek more professional help than the Reference desk offers. However, if it's just an annoyance, I suggest you pick up a copy of Michael Shermer's Why People Believe Weird Things. Even if you didn't have a phobia, it's a great read. (Oh, yeah, and are you sure it's "lithophobia"? A Google search defined lithophobia as the fear of rocks.) Deltabeignet 02:56, 31 January 2006 (UTC)
Those are all things that are outside your realm of control. They're big question marks. "Do they even exist? What if they do? What will they do to me?" You may want to ask yourself what else you're afraid of. The future? I'm not a psychologist, but I do know that researchers have found that the best way to get over most fears is to learn about the thing you're afraid of. Arachnids? Read an article about them and you'll be set. People of other cultures? Go to the import stores or wherever else they are and meet them. You'll like most of them.
Of course there is very little scientific data to comfort you on these things. I can tell you that I'm comforted by my religous beliefs on this subject, though this is no place to share them. The important thing, in my opinion, is to try to understand what is most likely at the source of this fear. My guess is you're between the ages of 15 and 30, with a lot of pressure and uncertanty about how things will work out for you. If that's the case then go relax at the beach, meet up with some friends, and listen to some music. But only after taking care of your obligations, otherwise you're just pretending to relax. And don't sue me if you take my advice and it doesn't work out for you. I'm not a psychologist. -LambaJan 03:56, 31 January 2006 (UTC)
I think you probably meant to say "lygophobia". This article is just one of a number I found on Google. Cheers JackofOz 04:20, 31 January 2006 (UTC)
Yes. Lithophobia would mean fear of rocks. --Keenan Pepper 15:29, 31 January 2006 (UTC)

é

Oops. No, I didn't mean to say "lithophobia". I have lots of fears (just like everyone), but I have an irrational fear of the dark and of heights (though I'm not afraid to look down from the CN Tower). My fear of the dark is really no more than an annoyance that haunts me at night but doesn't affect me during the day. I'm actually a skeptic who believes ghosts are no more than a fantasy. Aliens do exist, but they aren't visiting Earth or my bedroom or anything like that. Scary television shows, including fictional ones, are the source of my fear. Unlike most people, my fear of the dark developed when I was 8, and was totally nonexistant before that time. By the way, I'm a nerd who hates music and has only one friend. :( ---- Bowlhover 17:09, 31 January 2006 (UTC)
I used to get this sort of thing; I found that walking sideways, with my back against the wall, helped me feel more secure until I got over it. Good luck. smurrayinchester(User), (Talk) 19:26, 31 January 2006 (UTC)
I often experience the same thing - like a previous poster mentioned, I'm 16 with great uncertainty of how things will work out for me. I don't believe in aliens, but sometimes I get anxious that I'll experience a horror movie cliché, like suddenly seeing an alien's head when lightning flashes, or looking into a dark corner and noticing one. The best advice I can offer is to take deep breaths, or alter your sleeping pattern so you're going to bed at 9pm and waking up at 6.
For me, when I fear of the darkness and silence or strange sounds in the night, turning on the radio can often help. – b_jonas 21:18, 1 February 2006 (UTC)

[edit] Aluminum or Titanium City?

Which major cities in the world are major producers of refined aluminium or titanium? Which cities and towns in the world are located near aluminium or titanium mines?

Media:User:Bowei

Perhaps Newcastle, New South Wales, Australia for aluminum? Flea110 06:11, 31 January 2006 (UTC)
That part of NSW is indeed a producer of Aluminium. Much of it is smelted there, but some of the ore is also imported into New Zealand where it is smelted at Bluff, New Zealand, close to the city of Invercargill - it is that city's major industry. I suggest that the article on bauxite (aluminium ore) may also help. Grutness...wha? 14:12, 31 January 2006 (UTC)
  • "In 2004, China was the top world producer of aluminium. Suriname depends on aluminium exports for 70% of its export earnings." [74]
  • "Significant titanium ore deposits are in Australia, Scandinavia, North America and Malaysia." [75] -LambaJan 14:19, 31 January 2006 (UTC)

[edit] Military units

What is the method and meaning of the military unit numbering in the U.S.?

see Military unit and related articles. -LambaJan 14:06, 31 January 2006 (UTC)

[edit] Intelligent Design and Evolution in Public Education

I have something important to say in the debate on whether creation or evolution should be taught in public schools:

Evolution is just a theory.There has not yet been any scientific evidence to prove that it's true.It's NOT a fact!As long as there is no evidence to prove that it's true, there is still some chance that its opposing theory, intelligent design, is true.So, I say that we should teach both creation and evolution in schools.That is, we should tell students that there are two possibilities for the origin of life,intelligent design and evolution, and that there's not yet any evidence to prove that either one of them is true or not.

So what do you think?Do you(or anybody) have any problem(or something you don't like) about that?

Media:User:Michael Behe

See Wikipedia:What Wikipedia Is Not, and especially the bit about "Wikipedia is not a soapbox". Lots of people agree with your view, a lot of people, notably including the vast majority of earth and life scientists, don't. But Wikipedia is not the place to have a debate on it. Even on articles like Intelligent design, theoretically, the only purpose of debate on the talk page is to determine whether the article is a neutral account of the topic, rather than whether any particular view on the topic is the correct one. --Robert Merkel 06:09, 31 January 2006 (UTC)
Unless you really are Michael Behe, you probably shouldn't sign questions with his name. I have some doubt that he'd present the argument in this way. You should read our article about him and Creation-evolution controversy.
Now, let's see...
  • In science, a theory explains and predicts the behavior of a particular system, based on the prior body of science and specific observations. If a theory explains behavior poorly, it is refined or incorporated into a new theory to account for the discrepancy. Theories are rarely discarded entirely, because they often make useful predictions for certain limited domains. For example, Newton's laws of motion work pretty well in most conditions, but they're incorrect in many situations. Einstein's theory of relativity is more correct.
  • Theories are never proven true.
  • The only facts are direct observations. Unfortunately, any line of reasoning that follows an observation is inherently subjective. The mind-body problem is intractable.
  • Instead, theories are shown to be accurate descriptions of events. If a theory predicts specific behavior in a certain situation, and subsequent observations closely match the predicted behavior, the theory is shown to be accurate. By constructing experiments that reproduce situations a theory makes predictions for, anyone can verify the accuracy of a theory.
  • An experiment that produces results contrary to the predictions of a theory demonstrates the theory is inaccurate regarding the situation under study.
  • There are no experiments that produce results contrary to the predictions of evolutionary theory.
  • There have been very many experiments that have found particular predictions of evolutionary theory to be accurate.
  • Evolutionary theory makes predictions that can explain practically all the observations made in the field of biology: it is considered a very useful theory, and that is why it is taught.
  • There is opposition to teaching Intelligent Design because it appears to promote particular religious beliefs.
  • In the United States, it is generally considered that the writing of Thomas Jefferson demonstrates the Establishment Clause of the First Amendment is intended to place "a wall of separation between church and state". The Fourteenth Amendment requires each state to adhere to the Bill of Rights. Thus, it would be unconstitutional to teach Intelligent Design in state-run public schools.
  • As Michael Behe would argue, there are particular features of microorganisms that are difficult to explain from a mechanist point of view. For example, in his view, flagella developed specifically for the purpose of producing motion. As a flagellum is immobile if it lacks particular components, and evolutionary theory cannot explain why this logically prior form of flagellum would randomly evolve a missing component that makes it fit for motion, Behe considers evolutionary theory to be deficient.
  • From the point of view of evolutionary theory, Behe's argument of irreducible complexity is backward: the theory does not posit that features evolve for a purpose. The ubiquity of flagella indicates they are not detrimental to organisms. It does not indicate a necessity for organisms to have flagella. The fact that evolution conserves the form of flagella indicates their precise structure is crucial to the useful functions they serve.
‣ᓛᖁ♀ᑐ 09:56, 31 January 2006 (UTC)

Cool! That question appears everywhere, it was also in the Humanities RD. Let us give links to the relevant articles stop. --DLL 11:14, 31 January 2006 (UTC) Let us delete this question as per the reference desk rules. O_o Cernen Xanthine Katrena 23:09, 1 February 2006 (UTC)

[edit] Yamaha YPP55

Does anyone know what the demonstration song on the Yamaha YPP-55 (or YPP55) is called? I'd also just be happy to have the song itself. It sounds like the begining of the third movement of Mozart's __13 in B flat (which I've downloaded in midi format) but with more spunk. I'd also like to know demonstration song 2 on the same keyboard which i know is a mozart song. --172.168.117.94 06:00, 31 January 2006 (UTC)

I'm not familiar with that keyboard, but if that's what it sounds like, then you're probably right. Chances are also likely that the second song is also one whose author died more than 70 years ago, making it fair use. Otherwise they need to have an agreement reached to use it that includes royalties. I once heard a Billy Joel song as a keyboard demonstration. The more spunk is probably just a backbeat. -LambaJan 14:02, 31 January 2006 (UTC)

ok. It's quicker and more syncopated, but not backbeat. Thanks anyway.--172.131.187.70 04:26, 1 February 2006 (UTC)

[edit] Emperor Penguins threats

Does anyone know what type of birds are threats to Emperor penguins?? I would greatly appreciate finding this out. Thank you.

Giant petrels and skuas. —Charles P._(Mirv) 09:05, 31 January 2006 (UTC)

[edit] Can you offer us the detailed images?

Dear Sirs,

We are representing a publishing house from Republic of Moldova (ARC Publishing House) which activates on Moldovan market since 1994.

We decided to contact you as we found out you have a lot of information regarding the different types of science.

At this moment our publishing house works on the publishing of an Explanatory Illustrated Dictionary of the Romanian Language.

Our goal is to insert at the end of this dictionary some colored pages with images of 4 objects: the biggest airbus from the world (A 380), the biggest passenger ship (Queen Mary), the most rapid train (DGV France) and the world's highest oil platform (production of the petrol - AUGER (Mexican Gulf)).

We need the images of these 4 objects with all its sections and the names of each section (piece).

Can you please answer us if you have the images of these objects in electronic format and if you can help us in obtaining the permission to use them in our dictionary?

In case you don't dispose of this picture, please let us know your financial conditions and keep us in touch.

In the hope of reception of a positive answer from your part,

Yours respectfully, Stela Iesanu Rights manager ARC Publishing House Moldova

There are two kinds of image in Wikipedia: ones with a license to use them, which will allow you to use them; and fair use images, which will not. You can check the encyclopedia yourself for images. Click on them to see a high resolution image, and to read the copyright status. Each image is different, so check that carefully. Wikipedia makes no warranties about the accuracy of copyright statements, however. Notinasnaid 09:31, 31 January 2006 (UTC)
There are no financial conditions because nothing on Wikipedia is for sale. Pretty much everything you find on Wikipedia is free to use, provided you mention Wikipedia as a source if you copy entire sections. Images are, I believe, the only exceptions and are indeed very varied. For example, I upload images to Wikipedia under creative commons, which means you may use my photographs but have to put my name under them. DirkvdM 10:18, 31 January 2006 (UTC)
There is a desire on the part of some Wiki editor volunteers to make knowledge available for free, or almost for free, to future generations in the poorest of nations. If you share this desire, perhaps you can communicate that to the Wikimedia foundation, so that you can help with the distribution of Wiki know-how to the world, in a manner that i the lowest cost to the recipients, particularly children in nations without reliable access to the Internet. User:AlMac|(talk) 10:20, 31 January 2006 (UTC)
Shouldn't they be talking to somebody up in Head Office? --Zeizmic 13:54, 31 January 2006 (UTC)
Do we even have a Head Office...? ;) — QuantumEleven | (talk) 10:25, 1 February 2006 (UTC)
Yes, it's based here. Cernen Xanthine Katrena 23:16, 1 February 2006 (UTC)

[edit] currency stock

how the Indian rupees is

valued with doller means 1$=44.65INR

Why one counrty cannot print its currency notes as much as it wants?what is the deciding factor to print the currency notes?

Countries have tried to print as much money as they wanted in the past. What happens is that the rest of the world sees this and the currency is worth less and less (compared to other countries). This is a big problem unless a country does not need to import anything. There is a name for what happens next: hyperinflation. Notinasnaid 11:41, 31 January 2006 (UTC)

Wow, that's a really good article! --Zeizmic 13:58, 31 January 2006 (UTC)

Amazing ... and rather scary. --Shantavira 14:18, 31 January 2006 (UTC)
You don't need to take international trade into the equation. If there is more of something, one unit will be worth less. Same for money. Especially for money because it has no other function than economic value (it has no intrinsic value). Unless it becomes so worthless it's cheaper than wallpaper, which is what happened to the Mark after WWI, so people actually started using money as wallpaper. Makes one wonder how the state managed to finance printing that money. :) Actually, that's a serious question. I suppose the machinery and raw material they used was already paid for. Just a guess. DirkvdM 21:04, 31 January 2006 (UTC)

See this table for an example of how world events affect currencies. And read History_of_the_rupee#The_Fall_of_the_Rupee. deeptrivia (talk) 03:38, 1 February 2006 (UTC)

Price of Silver - Rate of Exchange: 1871-72 to 1892-93
Period Price of Silver (in pence per Troy ounce) Rupee exchange rate (in pence)
1871-1872 60½ 23 ⅛
1875-1876 56¾ 21⅝
1879-1880 51¼ 20
1883-1884 50½ 19½
1887-1888 44⅝ 18⅞
1890-1891 47 11/16 18⅛
1891-1892 45 16¾
1892-1893 39 15
Source: B.E. Dadachanji. History of Indian Currency and Exchange, 3rd enlarged ed.

(Bombay: D.B. Taraporevala Sons & Co, 1934), p.15.

[edit] Company Addresses

How can I find a list of companies' addresses in South Korea longer than the one on the Wikipedia site?

Well, you could try a google. Or you could try a South Korea directory - I'm sure there is one. --Young XenoNeon (converse) 18:28, 31 January 2006 (UTC)

[edit] kitten

you mean the offspring of a cat? try to be more specific....

Jayant, 17 Years, India|(Talk) 15:48, 31 January 2006 (UTC)

Yeah, and It's the Reference Desk, not the 'state a random word and assume that wikipedians will know what you're talking about' desk. If you want to know information about the kitten, you could try the Wikipedia article.--Young XenoNeon (converse) 18:33, 31 January 2006 (UTC)
Instead of getting into it, why don't we just do what we say we will do in the instructions and delete the posting outright. Trying to second guess what they meant is mostly a futile exercise. JackofOz 19:47, 31 January 2006 (UTC)
This is a classic case of a question not being suitly emphazid.  Run!  20:14, 31 January 2006 (UTC)

AAAHH! It still LIVES! --Zeizmic 21:00, 31 January 2006 (UTC)

are cute. – b_jonas 21:10, 1 February 2006 (UTC)

It could be an instruction addressed to a pregnant cat. --Heron 21:40, 1 February 2006 (UTC)

...can be huffed. See the Kitten huffing article on Uncyclopedia for details on how to suitly emphazi your kitten huffing abilities. Cernen Xanthine Katrena 23:19, 1 February 2006 (UTC)

[edit] The worlds most prominant religion?

Double posting deleted. --Zeizmic 16:32, 31 January 2006 (UTC)

Christianity. [76] -LambaJan 21:04, 31 January 2006 (UTC)
Capitalism. Grutness...wha? 03:16, 1 February 2006 (UTC)
Or, perhaps, vicious stupidity. -- Rick Block (talk) 03:22, 1 February 2006 (UTC)
Eitherorthisim is the worlds largest. CambridgeBayWeather (Talk) 03:35, 1 February 2006 (UTC)

[edit] Hotmail

Hi. I use internet explorer and an NTL internet conection. All other websites work on my internet but when I try to access WWW.HOTMAIL.COM a plain blank white screen comes up and nothing happens. How can I solve this problem??

Cheers in advance!!!

Could you try this link and see what happens? Sorry if that doesn't work, in advance! --Lox (t,c) 19:27, 31 January 2006 (UTC)
That's nice. You use a microsoft browser to visit a microsoft site and it doesn't work. :) DirkvdM 21:09, 31 January 2006 (UTC)
I would recommend using Mozilla Firefox[77] as an Internet browser. I have had your problem before and Firefox seems to fill in all the holes that Internet Explorer has.--Dematthew 05:17, 1 February 2006 (UTC)

I second that! All my troubles with trojans and viruses went down to nothing, once I made all the kids switch (especially with msn!). --Zeizmic 16:15, 1 February 2006 (UTC)

[edit] Basket weave in fabrics.

What is meant by a "basket weave" pattern for fabrics?

This (only using strips of fabric, instead of slabs of granite)  Run!  21:04, 31 January 2006 (UTC)
I looked it up for fun. It means a simple over-under pattern as above. Oxford cloth is based on this. I found this neat site with different shirt patterns. [78] --Zeizmic 22:01, 31 January 2006 (UTC)

[edit] Thirty (cloth)

I've got a weaving question too. When writing the Schunck article, I came across the term 'thirty' cloth (a sturdy cloth used for farmer's clothing), but couldn't find any info on it at all. And that's rare. One often doesn't find the right info on something but Googling "thirty cloth" just gives too many results with the number thirty. Can anyone think of a beter way to search for info? I could of course try to ask a weaver, but there aren't too many of those around anymore. Arnold Schunck wove only wool and thirty, so it must have been of some importance. DirkvdM 21:21, 31 January 2006 (UTC)

I looked too. I suspect it was a local name for a denim or jean workcloth, produced at the time. The number probably refers to weight, ie. something weird like 30 stone per roll. This article is very interesting. [79] --Zeizmic 22:17, 31 January 2006 (UTC)
okay, I'm more convinced than ever that is was a weight, most likely the cut system, and the cloth was a 30-cut, as shown here [80] --Zeizmic 00:32, 1 February 2006 (UTC)
this site speaks of "Cotton yarn 10/s, 16/s, 20/s, 24/s, 30/s, 32/s carded, combed waxed and un waxed". But textiles/hemp_reports.htm this site (http://www.bioregional.com/programme_projects/pap_fibres_prog/hemp textiles/hemp_reports.htm - link doesn't work because of space) says "extremely fine hemp yarn at 30 Nm is apparently produced in China." Nm means Joule (at least, I suppose that's what's meant), which is the unit for energy, so maybe that refers to the cloth's strength? I can't find anything conclusive. Alas not enough to base an explanation (or even an article) on. Yarn and textile manufacturing don't help either. I really want to know this now. DirkvdM 09:49, 1 February 2006 (UTC)