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My Christmas Wish List...

kates816 — Wed, 12 Nov 2008 14:20:30 -0800

The Japanese company Toto is now offering their “Intelligence Toilet” system which can measure blood pressure, sugar levels, weight, and body fat – all from urine. The results are analyzed and sent electronically to a doctor’s office. And you thought your Toto toilets were impressive.

Watching T.V. on your flat screen in the bathroom is so passé! Get ready while watching television in the mirror designed with an LCD T.V. behind it. Talk about multi-tasking.

I was pretty excited when they came out with refrigerators that had the water and ice dispenser in the door – very high tech. How about a fridge that’s equipped with an advanced climate control that can track food expiration dates? My fridge would be a lot cleaner if it could do this.

Cold toes? Try an electric under-floor mat. Equipped with heating coils woven in, these mats are regulated by a sensor that can be turned on or off anytime. And while the mats themselves are a little spendy ($800 and up), the mats cost less than 10 cents a day to run.

In what Ways Science and Technology had proved to be Harmful for Human race?

justanerd1975 — Wed, 12 Nov 2008 07:21:45 -0800

In what Ways Science and Technology had proved to be Harmful for Human race?
6 hours ago by king sailor
October 27, 2008

Best Answer - Chosen by Asker

People have used science to make things which are harmful. However, science is essential for development of technology. Far more good has been done by science than bad. Science is a "tool" or method which humans use to explore the the world, or reality. At one time people used mythology and religion to explain their world and science is simply the latest method- it grew because it is more dependable than mythology and religion.But I feel religion still has an important role to play in the growth of the human spirit. 4 hours ago

Asker's Comment: thanks brother
great answer

I don't believe that it is possible for science to be harmful. It is only possible for governments/corporations to abuse scientific advances. Even the atomic bomb, the science behind it is fascinating and extremely clever - It is the US military in the first place, followed too swiftly by various others that are responsible for the evil.
4 hours ago by penney

mostly it's our nature to improve or try to improve everything in this world. i think all and any technology can have a downfall to it. everything. Especially computer echnology because when it comes down to it everyone can be tracked and found on the web or some sort of artificial inteligent computer. kewl q!
6 hours ago

heh, cellphones, bad drivers, etc.
all of them for the most part are because of the humans behind them.
if you limit the time on the cell phone you dont get radiation poisoning.
If you drive good then you dont die in a car crash.

in what ways has religion proven to be harmful?
that might have been a better question.your local atheist
5 hours ago

beware the Y!Nazis™
cathydah...

The misuse of science, I think, is harmful... hence the human race is harmful to the human race. Science could easily be used for world peace, immortality, disease curings, ect... but that wouldn't be allowed to happen unless it was to give much power to the powers that be.
6 hours ago

ktownfar... Sanitation aids. Clorox, Windex, Lysol, etc. etc. In the long run they increase the resistance of micro-organisms, making them potentially immune to common cures. If we continue on this path, developing stronger antibacterial formulas without considering consequences, we may have an epidemic on our hands.
6 hours ago

BOBA FETTSci & tech are the best things that ever happened to the human race but it may ultimately provide the means to our extinction if certain religious nuts get nukes.
5 hours ago
Terry the Klown Member since:
It's not the science and technology that harms us, it's the humans that use them.

We're like a bunch of monkeys with machetes.
6 hours ago
Loki Lau

Genetic experimentation can be harmful. But that's a maybe. Why?
6 hours ago by Maurog
Block User

Any harm it might have done is countered by the invention of toilet paper.
6 hours ago
GEECEE Member since:
Block User

All the invisible rays given off from mobile phones microwaves etc.
6 hours ago by ?

In what way hasn't S&T proved proved harful to the human race (and the rest of the world, for that matter)?
BACK TO NATURE!
5 hours ago by MEOW!

Keeps causing those christians to have to keep revising "The Word of God" ... Pretty embarrassing
6 hours ago da_unive...

Blogblogbloggityblog

jeviscachee — Mon, 27 Oct 2008 08:52:42 -0700

http://scarlettdecourcier.blogspot.com

Just in case you're really bored

Converting to Digital TV (Hilarious)

Great Sommelier — Fri, 24 Oct 2008 17:18:55 -0700

This is another guilty giggle.

Cell phones in theaters

Pistil — Sat, 04 Oct 2008 18:36:38 -0700

Every time I go to a movie these days, there is someone texting or whatnot on their cell phone in the row below me through out the movie. Those glowing screens are just as annoying as a ringing cell phone, or someone answering their phone in the middle of the movie. Didn't you just pay 12 bucks to watch a movie? What is so important that you can't wait an hour and a half?

Does this bother anyone else? I mean, it's easy enough to ignore, but l feel like I'm one of the few people whose fingers aren't fused to some sort of gadget. Sensory overload.

Stationery

hippiecowgirl — Sat, 13 Sep 2008 20:19:38 -0700

What has happened to the fine art of letter writing? I've been searching high and low for some pretty, high-quality writing paper with envelopes. My search is proving futile.

I don't want note cards. I don't want an personalization. I don't want plain white. I don't want cheap see-through envelopes. I do want to purchase in a store so I can see and touch the paper before buying.

I'm all for e-mail and text messaging. I use them very regularly. I just think it's sad to see them completely replacing something so lovely.

nelere dikkat etmek gerekir

slnkr — Fri, 05 Sep 2008 18:18:13 -0700

Cep telefonu fiyatları telefonun kalitesini tam yansıtmayabilir. Yani en ucuz cep telefonu en kalitesiz olandır yada en pahalı cep telefonu en kaliteli olandır diyemeyiz.

Telefon fiyatları değişik etkenlere bağlıdır. Telefonun sağladığı özelliklerden (ses ve görüntü kaydı, müzik dinleme video izleme, bluetooth vb.) yapıldığı malzemeye, dayanıklılığından şıklığına ve markasına kadar bir çok etken cep telefonlarının fiyatlarının belirlenmesin de rol oynar.

www.telefonfiyatlari.net

Bir cep telefonunun markası buna bağlı olarak alacağınız teknik destek yedek parça sıkıntısının olmaması kısacası alışveriş sonrası alacağınız hizmet de çok önemlidir.

The Worst (or at least Notable) Computer Viruses

kates816 — Thu, 04 Sep 2008 15:21:44 -0700

A seemingly harmless school prank kicks off years of security headaches, system failures, and an increased awareness for the importance of computer backup.

1. The Infamous School Prank – In 1982, Rich Skrenta was a ninth-grader designing an unforgettable school prank. In actuality, he created what would become regarded as the first ever virus to strike PCs worldwide. Nicknamed “Elk Cloner,” the virus spread through Apple II floppy disks and exhibited a poem written by Skrenta.

2. The Lack of Brains Behind the “Brain” – The first virus to strike computers with a Microsoft OS appeared in 1986, “Brain” was developed by two Pakistani brothers who, before they unleashed it, did not realize the virus left the phone number of their computer repair shop. Brilliant.

3. Popular Melissa – Credited with being the first virus to spread over email, “Melissa” debuted in 1998 and blanketed the globe within mere hours. When users opened an attachment, the virus sent copies of itself to the first 50 people in the email address book.

4. Who Wouldn’t Want a Love Letter? – The creators of the “Love Bug” virus in 2000 cleverly took advantage of human nature by disguising an attachment with the virus as a love letter.

5. Code Red Code Red! – In 2001, “Code Red” became one of the first “network worms” which spread rapidly since it required nothing more than a network connection (as opposed to opening an attachment). The virus exploited a flaw in Microsoft software, one which many users had yet to install a software patch to fix, causing major problems.

6. Cash for the Blaster! – In 2003, two outbreaks known as “Blaster” and “SoBig” took advantages of known flaws in Microsoft software. The computer giant was compelled to offer cash rewards for anyone who could help authorities capture and prosecute the creators of the viruses.

Blu-Ray Prices Drop

lovely bones — Wed, 27 Aug 2008 14:50:23 -0700

They used to be around $399, Amazon has the Sony BDP-S300 Blu-ray player for $229, and some models from Philips, Insignia, Magnavox, and Sylvania are expected to drop down to $249.
Looks like the slashing prices (like the iphone) trend is starting to kick in, it's probably due to how our economy is now.

What do guys do when they get lonely? - -buy a Robotic Girlfriend of coarse!

lovely bones — Fri, 15 Aug 2008 16:52:50 -0700

The robot is named EMA which stands for Eternal Maiden Actualization. She kisses on command, can sing and dance. EMA will be released in Japan in September for about $175.

Oh what has our world come to? Next we'll come up with something to replace kids oh wait they already invented robotic babies haven't they?

MJ Steps!

Cinnamon Girl — Fri, 15 Aug 2008 09:00:29 -0700

Sensacell Luminous Footprints.

Sensacell Corporation has made that possible with it’s latest contribution of a floor system where the floor detects and responds to your footsteps. You can leave behind luminous footprints and the system consists of 1000 Sensacell HSI64-36-W interactive modules, and each module would consist of capacitative sensors and an LED lighting system. The company deals with interactive architectural technology and the new flooring system was displayed at the 2008 World Expo

Synthesizer of the Future-now! Yamaha Tenori-On

kiwigeek — Sun, 10 Aug 2008 03:35:24 -0700

Sythesizer's are so 70's. It generated new genres of music and plenty of previously unheard of sounds like the hoover, not to mention giving us characters like Synthesizer Patel from the BBC comedy 'Look around You'.

But now the synthesizer has been reborn by incorporating (LED) lights (and of course sound)! I give you the Tenori-On!
Tenori-On As the website says: "Media artist Toshio Iwai and Yamaha have collaborated to design a new digital musical instrument for the 21st century, TENORI-ON. A 16x16 matrix of LED switches allows everyone to play music intuitively, creating a "visible music" interface."
I discovered it today while on YouTube - user Little Bootsa composer/musician is a significant user of this technology as you will see in her videos. It certainly makes them interesting and gets everyone asking where they can get one!

I so want one! It was released in April in the US and UK and has recently been released in Canada so hopefully it should make its way round soon to down under. So go look at the demos posted on YouTube, it is great piece of technology and I'm sure you'll soon be on your 'needs' list.
xM

Do you have a "land line?"

smoe — Tue, 05 Aug 2008 11:42:15 -0700

I must be getting ummm, shall we say "up there in age." All 4 of my kids are grown, and all 4 of them ONLY have cell phones. None of them feel the need to bother with what we now call "land lines" The world of technology is growing so fast it's hard to keep up with. When was the last time you mailed, I mean put a stamp on it and sent it through the mail carrier, (and bills don't count.) piece of mail? I sent my Mom an actually, required a stamp, b-day card. Otherwise, it's all email. Makes me wonder what the world will be like when my 4 year old grand daughter, reaches he grandmas age.

Dirty Keyboard? Clean It With Goo!

lovely bones — Sun, 03 Aug 2008 17:16:37 -0700

It's called Cyber Clean and yes it's a lot like goo. Unlike ordinary goo it's suppose to remove the dirt from your keyboard and disinfect it at the same time.
I think I would much rather just rub hand sanitizer onto my keyboard instead.

You can buy the cleaning goo at ExpertVerdict.com.

U.S. agents can seize travelers' laptops

cordata — Sat, 02 Aug 2008 13:00:20 -0700

I hope Citizensugar does a post on this. Until then ...

http://news.yahoo.com/s/nm/20080801/tc_nm/usa_security_laptops_dc;_ylt=A...

How far is this going to go?

Verizon I 'Dare' You

ubringmejoi — Thu, 17 Jul 2008 00:26:45 -0700

Verizon DareI think I have fallen in LOVE again... with this new phone and I'm soooo excited because it's so user friendly and is full of features! Full Touch, 3.2 Mega Pixel Camera, Navigator (though I have this on my NV), V Cast Video etc.
I can actually take a picture and upload it directly to my blog or I can crop it and I can write something cute on the pic before I send it...

Now it might not be an Apple I-Phone but...

the best part is I'm on an UNLIMITED plan so I can be on it and not feel bad! Though I don't talk on the phone too much I might as well not get lost and look great when I do! Thanks VERIZON!

The "apple invite"

callmecheezcubes — Wed, 11 Jun 2008 14:55:41 -0700

So my boyfriend is trying to get a gig at the Apple Store.

Apparently instead of asking you to come to an interview, they email you an "apple invite."

This reminds me of my very very very short lived days when I tried pledging a sorority, and they send you a little invite to come to their house, when in reality, it's very similar to a job interview.

I don't know. At first, I thought the "apple invite" concept was cute. It sounded like my Bf just got invited to a really cute tea party. lol.

But when I think of it in terms of a sorority interview, I'm a little creeped out.

Perhaps I'm just crazy because I've just been at work too long?

The Magic of Photoshop

leeluvfashion — Wed, 09 Apr 2008 16:23:24 -0700

Makes you wonder what models & actors really look like.

RCA Wireless Wizard Does it All!

leeluvfashion — Sun, 06 Apr 2008 23:49:57 -0700

Here's a throwback to vintage technology (1961)...

What do you think about del.icio.us?

berichard — Sun, 30 Mar 2008 04:49:21 -0700

I've been reading about del.icio.us for a while now, and finally decided to give it a try. After playing around with it, I'm still not sure I like the organization of it. I usually keep my bookmarks organized in folders, but they were starting to get messy. What are your opinions on del.icio.us? Let me know if you have any tips that make it better or more efficient!

Do You Use Safari Browser On Your PC (excluding Macs)?

leeluvfashion — Sat, 22 Mar 2008 00:26:40 -0700

Safari Browser Icon

I just downloaded the Safari browser onto my PC and love it! It is so much faster and efficient that IE (which is what I use(ed) on a daily basis and thought was wonderful) and AOL (which I stopped using a year ago. too slow.) I was wondering if you have the Safari browser on your PC (excluding mac's, strictly pc users)?

Unleash Your Inner Love Song : Valentine's Day For Geeks

askfrasco — Wed, 13 Feb 2008 15:58:37 -0800

Release your inner love song. Create a custom and sexy ringtone for the one you cherish.

Simply log onto ToneMine and start mixing your own track. You can even upload your own sounds to make it even more meaningful and then send the newly created ringtone off to your date.

With titles like "Love Your Bad" and "I Want To Tell You A Lil' Summin' Summin'" how could you go wrong?

Technology bites!

Savonny — Tue, 29 Jan 2008 15:18:02 -0800

One thing I hate is how technology is moving so fast. I mean, it's cool to invent new things but wow...here we are with like 10 generations of ipods already!

What I hate is how you're deciding what mp3 player, camera, laptop, etc to get..and you're like ''I want blah because it's the latest thing..has the latest features..etc'', and once you get it...a NEWER version/color comes out 2 months later! It just bothers me because I'm the type of girl who wants the latest gadgets out there, or newer versions of things I already have..and I just can't keep up with it!

My boyfriend got me an ipod mini in 2005, and I was so happy because I really wanted an ipod and whatever. Next thing you know, nanos are out about 3 months later! And now, my mini is tripping out and having issues..and I want a nano but I'm afraid that once I buy it a newer one will come out ASAP. I know new things always come out, but damn...can a consumer have at least a year of enjoying it before something else comes out? It's smart of the companies to keep introducing new gadgets/colors but I personally think they need to slow it down before we become a robotic society.

I'm thankful for the things I do have, and it may sound crazy to want something just because a new color came out..but like, everyone is so into technology, buying the latest things...and then here I am not even having any clue what they're talking about.

Technology is so frustratinggggggg!

New Security Measures For Daycare Could Stop Parental Abductions!!!

JulieWaters — Tue, 15 Jan 2008 06:52:54 -0800

All of us as parents have one goal for our children…to see them grow up to be happy & healthy. Unfortunately with the advent of divorces, crime, & this world we live in we can’t always keep our children safe.

I myself, stress over whether or not my child is going to be safe when I leave them at the daycare. Of course I carefully interviewed everyone who would have contact with my child & I just stopped short from going over the facility with a fine toothed comb. I bring all of this up to say I am not too keen on safety level at my child’s daycare.

I have noticed that so many people come in the daycare center so I worry about whether or not she’s safe there for long periods of time. My child’s daycare has cameras & a coded lock on the door but that doesn’t stop my worries.

I recently was doing a little night time reading on the internet and saw something that I must tell everyone and anyone who will listen. I also did some checking around at local daycare facilities and found this product that is so amazing. I found out that a lot of daycare facilities actually implement & love it. It is this id system you can buy on the internet. Some major reputable companies sell this product. It identifies the people who come in and pick up your children. It makes it so that if someone is not known they can be matched against another database of people who are authorized to pick up your child. If you are not in the database it takes a copy of the fingerprint and flags someone to call the child’s guardian. This is perfect because it stops the need for permission notes which can be forged.

This way you cannot have a code or a key card that is stolen from someone else. It only allows the person who’s fingerprint on file to have access to the child without the knowledge of the facility. It also then records when & who came to pick up the child. There are these systems in daycare facilities almost like credit card machines that you either swipe a key card or punch in a code. This isn’t foolproof as codes can be lost or stolen. This I think is so great because no one can use your fingerprint without your knowledge (except if you were to cut it off…gruesome & unlikely).

I think this is perfect for those who are in a custody dispute. This makes it hard for anyone to just take there children out of the facility. I think it’s great too because if there was ever a parental abduction you would have the fingerprint of the person who did it. It records the fingerprint of those who don’t have access to the facility too.

Yeah, I know there are those out there who would be a bit concerned about the big brother aspect. The neatness of this product is that it’s all internally done in the school so no other agency has the access to the fingerprint database. These systems are sold by different companies such as: M2SYS, Motorola, & NEC. They then sell them to the school and then they have nothing else to do with it. They do provide support but they don’t have access to it unless you ask them through tech support. It’s soley owned by the daycare.

Most people will disagree with me & say that their childcare facilities’ staff makes sure of this. That’s not true. I remember talking to a worker at my child’s daycare facility and asking about the coded system. I asked her if the code was changed on a regular basis and who had access to the code. She told me it was changed by the owner about once every 6 months and a lot of people have access to the code.

This brings me to another question that I had to have answered in my own mind. She said “when the staff at the front desk wasn’t on duty.” Yikes. I didn’t want to come across as a paranoid. I was out with my mother one day and told her about the issue. She told me we should test it.

I decided that testing was a great idea instead of coming across in an accusing manner. Mom & I went to the daycare. I wrote up a note saying it was okay for Jessica to be picked up my Mom. Mom said she went in & spoke with the daycare front desk clerk. The daycare worker who she didn’t know said she would get someone to bring Jess to my Mom. The worker tried to raise someone on her walkie talkie. No one answered and the worker said it was lunch time so everyone was really busy. She then said she would go get Jess from her classroom. She left the front desk unattended. Mom decided to walk to Jess’s room. She went down the hall and went into the room. Mom asked Jess’ teacher if she needed to check to make sure it was okay for her to leave with Jess in her file or sign something but the worker said as long as she had a note it was okay. Mom then took her with her to the front desk and waited for about 5 minutes. No one came came back the front desk. Mom left with her.

All this to say that the security measures at daycare facilities are lacking. I wish this were not true but something has to be done to keep our children safe.

I have to bring up something else. What if I were in the process of getting a divorce & custody dispute. What if my husband knew the code to the door and went to the facility to pick my child up. What if he abducted her. If they had the fingerprint technology it would alert the staff that someone unauthorized had tried to pick up the child.

I know one day Jess is going to be all grown up and not need me to care for her but yet in the next few years she will need my protection and the protection of the daycare facility I choose to leave her with. No, I am not a paranoid parent but a parent who wants to see her on her wedding day.

One last thing. I know you’re probably saying well so many mothers own daycare facilities or they are owned by Mom & Pop operations. If I can’t program my own phone just think the nightmare that the facilities would have to deal with because they probably don’t have tech support people on hand 24 hours a day. Well that is all alleviated. I actually went to the closet Day Care Center which I use and they gave me information about how they use the fingerprint technology and they even gave me the contact information about M2SYS, who actually provided them the solution. If you know how to play a DVD (which most of us have gotten out of the dark ages enough to do that) then you can do this. You just load the software that comes with the system and it is automatically done. I think the load time is less than 10 minutes. That’s so small compared to the hours I stress over this issue.

Thank you for listening reading my note about tougher security measures in schools. I think this is a great system and it needs to be implemented in more then just daycare facilities but jails, elder care facilities, & hospitals. I think we would all sleep a little bit better when it comes to the worries about our families.

Durable Fingerprint ReaderSmall Fingerprint Reader (Smaller than a credit card)

Websites:
WWW.M2SYS.COM
WWW.MOTOROLA.COM
WWW.NEC.COM

New Technology for An Old Man

GirlC — Wed, 05 Dec 2007 12:40:00 -0800

The other day my Dad called me.
"I keep reading about something and I was hoping you could explain it to me," he said. "Let me get the article."
I wait while I hear papers being shuffled around.
"Okay got it. What's wiffy?"
"Wiffy?"
"Yeah, Wiffy. They're talking about it and the Internet and my cellphone."
"Wiffy? Spell it for me," I asked.
"W-i-f-i, and there's a dash between the first i and f."
After I finished laughing (phone on mute), I let him know it's pronounced, "Why-Feye."

Explain to me, the Wi-Fi

GrandEntrance — Sat, 24 Nov 2007 15:27:51 -0800

No doubt you will be hearing a lot of techno language this holiday season. One of those words will be Wi-Fi (wireless fidelity), or connecting to the Internet wirelessly.

WiFi (wireless fidelity), uses radio waves to allow your PDA, cell phone or computer to connect to the Internet without cables and wires.

Wi-Fi product specifications standard is known as : The 802.11 family.
Related groups of 802.11a, 802.11b, and 802.11g. Wireless devices should follow any one of these standards.

A wireless router (a computer networking device that contains a router, a port for a modem, a firewall, a wireless access point and an Ethernet hub) receives the signal decodes it, and then sends the information to the Internet via wire. In turn, when the router receives incoming information from the Internet, it translates the data into a radio signal and send this to the computer's wireless transmitter or adapter.

Many new computers contain built-in wireless transmitters; otherwise a wireless adapter must be installed.

So, what are those people doing at Starbucks ?

When going wireless you can connect at hotels, some restaurants, airports, or coffee houses, where they sometimes offer FREE Wireless access points (WAP) . Wi-Fi enabled devices can connect to the Internet when near these access points.

I heard somebody say hotspot?
Hotspots are simply the areas covered by one or more access points and vary in size. Hotspots are plentyful these days.

Okay so what's the upside of Wi-Fi

Wireless networks free us from hundreds of tangled wires, cables, cords and such.
Allows us to connect in public places and locations
Recent changes to encryption standards means enhanced security.

Okay so what's the downside of Wi-Fi:

Microwave ovens and cordless phones can sometimes disrupt the network

Channel congestion can occur leading the inability to access points

In terms of security, access points typically default to an encryption free mode. This mode provides open access to the LAN (land area network), making it easier for hackers.

Also look for secure connections such as connecting through a provider that uses encryption with a list of trusted hotspots, and or purchase Wi-Fi Certified products for Wi-Fi protected Access.

As with all things Internet: Remember to change passwords regularly and avoid responding to questionable e-mails.

woot.com - one day, one deal

steen — Thu, 08 Nov 2007 12:51:51 -0800

Woot.com is an online store and community that focuses on selling cool stuff cheap. It started as an employee-store slash market-testing type of place for an electronics distributor, but it's taken on a life of its own. We anticipate profitability by 2043 – by then we should be retired; someone smarter might take over and jack up the prices. Until then, we're still the lovable scamps we've always been.

You cannot live without your...

Luanda — Tue, 16 Oct 2007 10:35:44 -0700

Potent new “nanofabrics” repel germs to keep you healthy

Shiloh Jolie Pitt — Sat, 13 Oct 2007 10:40:32 -0700

Popular Science Mag

Air Purifiers: A Cornell student models garments coated with smog-busting palladium nanoparticles

Fashion Gets Functional
Potent new “nanofabrics” repel germs and pollution to keep you healthy

By Dawn Stover | September 2007

The approach of flu season sends many people scurrying for vaccinations and vitamins. But what if you could avoid the flu and other viruses simply by getting dressed? That’s the idea behind two garments that are part of the “Glitterati” clothing line designed by Olivia Ong, a senior design major at Cornell University. The two-tone gold dress and metallic jacket made their debut at the Cornell Design League fashion show on April 21.
It’s not the casually stylish appearance of the dress and jacket that has attracted attention from clothing manufacturers, tech blogs and even military research labs, but rather something that can’t be seen: a sprinkling of nanoparticles intended to protect the wearers of these garments from invisible threats to their health. The upper part of the dress is made from cotton coated with silver nanoparticles that deactivate bacteria and viruses. The jacket’s hood, sleeves and pockets contain palladium nanoparticles that act like tiny catalytic converters to break down harmful components of air pollution.

The dress and jacket are known as “functional clothing”—garments that do more than just make you look cool—and they are growing in popularity. Already on the market are shirts with bug repellent, antimicrobial underwear and stain-resistant trousers. But Ong’s creations are among the first to qualify as genuine nanotextiles, fabrics in which the active particles are evenly distributed and less than 100 nanometers in diameter, or about one thousandth the thickness of cotton fibers.

To create the nanotextiles, Ong turned to Juan Hinestroza, an assistant professor of fiber science at Cornell. He and postdoctoral researcher Hong Dong dipped positively charged cotton fabric in a solution of negatively charged metal ions. Electrostatic forces bind the metal ions and cotton together. The smaller the metal particles are, the greater the surface area for interactions with microbes or smog in the atmosphere.

The beauty of nanotextiles is that the particles are so small that the clothing feels and drapes like your favorite cotton T-shirt. The nanoparticles also block larger dirt particles from reaching the surface of the cotton, so the garments don’t often need to be washed. “And if you create colors with particles instead of pigments,” Hinestroza points out, “your clothing will never fade.”

The difficulty lies in figuring out how to control the particle dispersal with nanoscale precision. Currently, only scientists using pricey microscopes can even see the nanoparticles well enough to measure them. That’s one reason it’s difficult to verify commercial claims about “nanotech” clothing.

Because making the fabric swatches for Ong’s dress and jacket cost about $10,000, germ-busting clothes aren’t likely to be mass-produced anytime soon. But already researchers can see potential markets ranging from well-heeled hypochondriacs to medical emergency teams.

The U.S. Army is especially interested. Scientists at the Natick Soldier Research, Development and Engineering Center in Massachusetts are experimenting with metal nanoparticles and chlorine coatings in an effort to create protective suits that will provide a barrier against chemical and biological weapons. In addition to ensuring that “self-cleaning” fabrics are safe and non-irritating, the Army scientists must also perform long-term wear tests to make sure that the fabrics hold up with repeated wearing. The hope is that these fabrics will be lighter and thinner than conventional barrier materials, but some of the most promising compounds are probably too expensive for widespread use. “We’re not putting gold into soldiers’ uniforms,” says Heidi L. Schreuder-Gibson, a polymer research chemist at Natick, “but we might go with silver.”

My First Flat Screen TV Hotel Experience

geeksugar — Tue, 02 Oct 2007 18:42:46 -0700

This past weekend me and my boyfriend took a little trip to Seattle and Vancouver. When we were booking our accommodations we were trying to find hotels that were in a good location, were reasonably priced and looked relatively nice. When we arrived in Vancouver we were almost jumping up and down when we checked into our hotel. The farthest thing from a Motel 6, the place was chic, had a fully stocked bar fridge (as you can tell from exhibit A below) and was actually technologically advanced—something I didn't expect whatsoever! As you can see here, there was a flat screen Phillips TV mounted on the wall (which unfortunately didn't turn to face the bed) and I could connect my MacBook (on desk) to the data port for Internet access (maybe not WiFi but high speed nonetheless)! Okay, maybe I'm tooting this hotels horn because the room made me feel like I was in a luxurious boat, but all in all, it was the full hotel experience that provided all the business/pleasure amenities one could ever want!

The New Pearl of the Orient

chix6 — Sun, 30 Sep 2007 08:17:29 -0700

I've read in newspaper about the launch of the Penang Global City Center, Malaysia by Malaysian Prime Minister a couple weeks ago. At first, I did not care to know about it as I thought there would be another so-so shopping mall in town. And actually I did not read the whole article about what PGCC is!

Yesterday, while I surfing I found in a architecture forum, I found the picture of PGCC. I am amazed, the design is so fantastic. I never thought someone will build such a beauty in Penang. Usually, the developer will invest their mega project somewhere in KL or Selangor or maybe in JB because they target the Singaporeans.

And as you see, the PGCC is far more beautiful than KLCC! It has an international exhibition and conference center,the RM18bil project will also have shopping complexes, two five-star hotels, commercial and residential properties, a state-of-the-art cultural centre and a 10.5ha park.

Considering the opening of Northern Corridor Economic Region (NCER) which consisted Penang, Kedah, Perlis and North Perak, I believe and I can imagine the PGCC would be one of the contributors to NCER when it's ready soon.

Additionally, there would be other project in Penang such as the well planned transportation and much more to complement the whole transformation of modern Penang. Penangite should be lucky to have a metropolis city amidst the historic and exotic sights.

Personally, I hope this project will divert the world attention from the amazing Burj Al-Arab to Penang Global City Center. And I do hope, after 15 years Malaysians are ready to accept the world attention and to be more civilize than today. There's no point to have an iconic and world class building but the 'rakyat' still selfish and to stupid to appreciate.

Okay, can I change the PGCC initials to Penang the Great Craftmanship City? Whatever.

Chix Quote: Chic urbanism in the exotic state of Penang.

Image Source

Verdant Computing, building a greener machine

cammei — Fri, 21 Sep 2007 07:35:13 -0700

http://www.verdantcomputing.com/

build a greener machine
verdant computing
it's good for you, and it's good for the earth.

Each year, over 30 million computers are discarded in the US, piling up in landfills and leeching toxic chemicals into our wastestream. At Verdant Computing, you'll find a greener way to connect, whether you're looking to build a machine from the ground up, you want a new monitor or printer, or you just want the latest accessories for your home or office. You'll also find plenty of helpful articles that will help you go green in every area of your life.

For love of technology

katiesugar — Fri, 31 Aug 2007 22:40:54 -0700

aaahhh....I love technology. The buttons, the lights, the sounds, everything about it is so neat. I think I might want to apply for an internship with Geeksugar because I heard that they have neat technology over there. I don't know what a geek is, but I have a shirt that says "my daddy is a geek", so I think it is a good thing. It probably means cool or awesome or something like that.

Only $4 million dollars for 3 day stay in Space!

c0rkie — Sat, 11 Aug 2007 02:28:29 -0700

Fly me to the moon: space hotel sees 2012 opening
By Pascale Harter Fri Aug 10, 1:21 PM ET
An artists rendering of a shuttle docking with the Galactic Suite hotel is seen in an undated publicity photo.

BARCELONA (Reuters) - "Galactic Suite," the first hotel planned in space, expects to open for business in 2012 and would allow guests to travel around the world in 80 minutes.

Its Barcelona-based architects say the space hotel will be the most expensive in the galaxy, costing $4 million for a three-day stay.

During that time guests would see the sun rise 15 times a day and use Velcro suits to crawl around their pod rooms by sticking themselves to the walls like Spiderman.

Company director Xavier Claramunt says the three-bedroom boutique hotel's joined up pod structure, which makes it look like a model of molecules, was dictated by the fact that each pod room had to fit inside a rocket to be taken into space.

"It's the bathrooms in zero gravity that are the biggest challenge," says Claramunt. "How to accommodate the more intimate activities of the guests is not easy."

But they may have solved the issue of how to take a shower in weightlessness -- the guests will enter a spa room in which bubbles of water will float around.

When guests are not admiring the view from their portholes they will take part in scientific experiments on space travel.

Galactic Suite began as a hobby for former aerospace engineer Claramunt, until a space enthusiast decided to make the science fiction fantasy a reality by fronting most of the $3 billion needed to build the hotel.

An American company intent on colonizing Mars, which sees Galaxy Suite as a first step, has since come on board, and private investors from Japan, the United States and the United Arab Emirates are in talks.

PLENTY RICH ENOUGH

If Claramunt is secretive about the identity of his generous backer, he is more forthcoming about the custom he can expect.

"We have calculated that there are 40,000 people in the world who could afford to stay at the hotel. Whether they will want to spend money on going into space, we just don't know."

Four million dollars might be a lot to spend on a holiday, but those in the nascent space tourism industry say hoteliers have been slow on the uptake because no one thought the cost of space travel would come down as quickly as it has.

Galactic Suite said the price included not only three nights in space. Guests also get eight weeks of intensive training at a James Bond-style space camp on a tropical island.

"There is fear associated with going into space," said Claramunt. "That's why the shuttle rocket will remain fixed to the space hotel for the duration of the guests' stay, so they know they can get home again."

In an era of concern over climate change, Galaxy Suite have no plans so far to offset the pollution implications of sending a rocket to carry just six guests at a time into space.

"But," says Claramunt, "I'm hopeful that the impact of seeing the earth from a distance will stimulate the guests' urge to value and protect our planet."

http://news.yahoo.com/s/nm/20070810/tc_nm/space_hotel_dc

Love it or Hate it? Moving Clock

leeluvfashion — Mon, 30 Jul 2007 19:26:09 -0700

Clocky by Nanda

Clocky by Nanda - $50 sold at Urban Outfitters. Clocky is the alarm clock that doesn't want you to be late. Once you hit the snooze button for a second time, Clocky rolls right off your nightstand and will roll all around your room blaring his charming alarm until you get your lazy bones out of bed to catch him and turn him off.

iPhone and Teamsugar

Ursula5977 — Thu, 19 Jul 2007 05:07:47 -0700

I must say that, since I've found this fantastic site, I've become obsessed. I've recommended all of the sugar sites to my friends and coworkers (since we're Apple nuts!) and we just love checking up on the latest news and gossip. I keep my favorite sugar sites in my menu bar so I can access them with ease many times a day!

My favorites are geeksugar and BellaSugar. I love me the mix of geeky toys and technology with some fantastic makeup. Then again, I can't say those are my favorites; I LOVE THEM ALL!

You guys have such wonderful giveaways, it's insane!

I hope you guys each have an iPhone - they're the most incredible devices to date! Have a wonderful day and good luck choosing =)

Do you want the iPhone?

jaimieb — Wed, 18 Jul 2007 11:18:39 -0700

With the recent buzz surrounding the sleek new iPhone, the question arises: are people ready to take the plunge and make the purchase?

Everyone Forever

daniellesteph — Sun, 15 Jul 2007 14:48:18 -0700

this site seems to have the baddest and newest technology, design, art news.. set up is clean too. http://www.everyoneforever.com/

Are You Hooked?

Perculator — Wed, 27 Jun 2007 14:52:47 -0700

Take this quiz to find out!

http://www.TwelveBooks.com/books/quiz.swf

Wow...amazing technology

wynter — Mon, 18 Jun 2007 12:10:21 -0700

Is this not the coolest thing? I guess we need to start saving with that price tag! lol (Ignore the commercial at the beginning)

http://www.king5.com/sharedcontent/VideoPlayer/videoPlayer.php?vidId=149...

Lusting for an iPhone?

pinkmoxie — Wed, 13 Jun 2007 14:59:43 -0700

Anyone else lusting for an iPhone? I am, but will probably not be in line on June 29th to get one and will most likely wait for a second-generation iPhone (or maybe third). I was bummed that Apple decided to have the iPhone run on AT&T's slower network (EDGE network) instead of the faster 3G network (third-generation wireless network).

My other concern is the battery issue. I know their design is all about saving on space, but not having a rechargeable battery that you can swap out is a downside in my opinion. After all, rechargeable batteries only last so long.

But then again, in Apple's defense, by the time the battery dies for good, it's time to upgrade to a new device. I guess that's what Apple counts on. It's held true for me on my iPods and my Palm devices, which I'm happily giving up (Palm Treo 650) for an iPhone.

What are your thoughts on the iPhone? Are you going to get one or wait for a later generation? Curious to know what others have to say.

I have created a new group

Shiloh Jolie Pitt — Sat, 02 Jun 2007 09:37:18 -0700

I am subscribed to several Scientific and Tech magazines and very often I find interesting articles that I want to share, so this is the group for that.
If you enjoy reading about modern science and tech advancements come on up and subscribe to my new group.
Let's tickle our minds

http://teamsugar.com/group/287358

~~~~~~~~

PS. Later today I will post new Freebies, I promise!

the demand for hybrids

Hollywoodjess — Mon, 14 May 2007 14:21:42 -0700

So I keep seeing commecials about hybrid cars and the spokesperson says that hybrids are now more wanted than ever and there new and improved. So why dont car companies that have high demand for their cars want to get involved with this? (Like mercedes, bmw, ferrari,mistubishi etc)Wouldnt it give them more business? Or have they and I dont know about them?

I know honda,toyota,ford and maybe a few other SUV's have been made into hybrids butI would think that if people new that their favorite sports car came in a hybrid model they would want to buy it instead of a regular car because of gas prices or at least consider a hybrid when car shopping..its just so much more logical to me..Is there a reason why differet companies arent making these models?...Anyone have any thoughts on this?

Snap Judgments: Vote Now

helio — Wed, 09 May 2007 09:20:03 -0700

Vote for your favorite device now on Gizmodo.

[Hint: Ocean is the right answer ]

-- Your friends at Helio

sigh technology moves so fast...

mlar0574 — Wed, 25 Apr 2007 20:45:56 -0700

Ahahaha omg this is so true...as soon as you buy something there is another version 4 days later a 1000 times better. Lol apple goes so overboard. Hmm maybe i can convince them to make one with a tv, hair dryer, magazine holder, compartment to hold my coffee, and a mirror all whilst playing my favourite tunes...

Are you a geek?

fairy_MK — Fri, 09 Mar 2007 07:26:11 -0800

Isn't it weird how you stumble across some websites and you don't ever remember how you got there? I found this one the other day and got quite a kick out of it. There are all kinds of weird technological products on here. Sounds geeky right? But it is actually rather humorous to see what kind of ridiculous products are out there. Enjoy!

http://www.geekologie.com/

This is one product they talk about. NASTY!

iPOD SWIMSUIT

AP650 — Mon, 19 Feb 2007 19:02:15 -0800

This year's most talked about beach fashion is surely going to be the iPod swimsuit as seen in the swimsuit edition of Sports Illustrated. A Bridgett Bardot-like model wears an iPod AND NOTHING ELSE--other than ear-buds...You can guess where they strategically positioned the iPod. By the way, the song playing is "Getting the Picture," by Jimmy Buffett (not super subtle, and because of where it is placed, very funny). The sub-head(line) on the page reads: "For Your Downloading Pleasure, Here's SI's Best Opening Act Ever." I think that that is likely true...Each swimsuit model posts their favorite iPod playlist. In THIS case, a Zune just won't do...Sex does sell and Apple has done it again:) Hilarious!

Why did you go online today

BeautyGoddess — Thu, 08 Feb 2007 09:54:27 -0800

What brought you here and what do you want to find online? You can only pick one choice, so tell me what brought you to this site today?

Why did you go online today

To research a specific topic

33% (4)

To solve a problem or see how others have dealt with a specific problem

0% (0)

Entertainment

50% (6)

To connect to like minded people

17% (2)

To feel better about the choices you have made

0% (0)

Total votes: 12

iAm ready for this

lwoerther — Tue, 09 Jan 2007 10:46:22 -0800

Apple finally unveiled it's big announcement at the MacWorld Conference in San Francisco... iPhone and iTV. The phone runs on OSX and the Tv is an easy-to-use way to do everything on your television. Check out these cool pictures of the phone: http://www.engadget.com/2007/01/09/the-apple-iphone/

I am definitely ready for something that I can do everything on and works like a Mac. Amen!

teamsugar -- Connect. Share. Enjoy.

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Everyone Forever

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Wow...amazing technology

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the demand for hybrids

Snap Judgments: Vote Now

*sigh* technology moves so fast...

Are you a geek?

iPOD SWIMSUIT

Why did you go online today

Why did you go online today

iAm ready for this

sigh technology moves so fast...