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Before there were cruise missiles




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A Surprise from the Classroom Bunny

Breanna Teel is a high school science teacher who keeps things like fish and eels in her classroom. She did not foresee becoming a rabbit rescuer. A student brought a rabbit to school not knowing she was pregnant. While there, the rabbit gave birth to two bright pink baby bunnies, but didn't feed them, so Teel went into overdrive to save the newborns. She would have done so under any other circumstances, but when your students are following along, you go the extra mile to set a good example. I can imagine that no one in the classroom has ever seen newborn rabbits. I certainly haven't.

Teel's efforts paid off when the babies began to grow and flourish. They appear to be some odd breed of show rabbits that resemble large powder puffs with wiggly noses. Are they tribbles? At any rate, they've become a permanent part of the classroom into which they were born.    




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South Korea Fines Meta $15.67M for Illegally Sharing Sensitive User Data with Advertisers

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Palo Alto Advises Securing PAN-OS Interface Amid Potential RCE Threat Concerns

Palo Alto Networks on Friday issued an informational advisory urging customers to ensure that access to the PAN-OS management interface is secured because of a potential remote code execution vulnerability. "Palo Alto Networks is aware of a claim of a remote code execution vulnerability via the PAN-OS management interface," the company said. "At this time, we do not know the specifics of the




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Nobody wants Copilot Pro AI for Office365, so Microsoft will force-bundle it and raise the price?





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Princeton researchers find a path toward Hep E treatment by disentangling its knotty structure

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One is bad enough: Climate change raises the threat of multiple hurricanes

Getting hit with one hurricane is bad enough, but new research from Princeton Engineering shows that back-to-back versions may become common for many areas in coming decades.




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Mapping an entire (fly) brain: A step toward understanding diseases of the human brain

An international team of researchers and gamers, led by Princeton’s Mala Murthy and Sebastian Seung, mapped every neuron and every synaptic connection in an adult fruit fly's brain, building a comprehensive “connectome” that represents a massive step toward understanding the human brain.




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Does Machine Quilting Enhance Quilts that are otherwise Hand-Sewn?

Oh dear, I'm sorry to have neglected posting here for so long. Although many suitable topics and photos have passed through my mind and camera, there just hasn't seemed to be a nice chunk of time available for putting it all together. Today is the day to begin again!

Inspired by Alice, by Marilyn Lidstrom Larson of Willow City, ND (detail of border)

For the past two months, it's been all about quilts and quilting for me, with beading taking a bit of a back seat for a while. My quilt and travel buddy, Lunnette, and I flew to Ontario, California for The Road to California, which is a ginormous quilt show with more than 1,000 quilts on exhibition and over 200 vendors. We gawked (and spent all of our allotted budget) for 3 whole days, barely noticing our fatigue and sore footies.

There are several intriguing subjects to cover, inspired by our experiences there. Today's post is about traditional applique and machine quilting.

Inspired by Alice, by Marilyn Lidstrom Larson of Willow City, ND
photo credit (for this photo only): Road 2 CA

Inspired by Alice, by Marilyn Lidstrom Larson, detail showing back

Inspired by Alice, by Marilyn Lidstrom Larson, detail of center

Inspired by Alice, by Marilyn Lidstrom Larson, detail of center quilting
Inspired by Alice, shown in the photos above, won the first prize of $1,000 in the Traditional, Wall, Applique category of the main (judged) exhibit! Take a moment to study the pictures, click on them to enlarge them, notice the way the applique and machine quilting compliment each other. Also think about what this might have looked like if the maker, Marilyn Lidstrom Larson, had hand-quilted her work the way Alice, her grandmother (and inspiration for the central portion of the quilt), would have done. I love this quilt, totally love it, and believe it deserved the award it received.

At the same time, it saddens me that in all the juried/judged shows I've seen (and entered) recently, there is no category specifically for hand sewn quilts... quilts which are hand-pieced, hand-appliqued, hand-embroidered, and/or hand-embellished, and finished with hand-quilting. Nope, hand-sewn quilts are judged right along with machine-sewn quilts. In my observation, machine-quilted pieces are the ones that win almost all the prizes, even in the traditional categories. Why is that? Is hand-quilting considered passe, a thing of our grandmothers' time? Is it because machine-quilting has more pizzazz in the viewers' and makers' eyes? Is it because the machine manufacturers are huge financial supporters of these shows and providers of much of the prize money? Is it because the machine manufacturers run the training programs for judges?

OK, let's look into this subject a bit more. Later, I'll tackle the subject of the influence of the machine manufacturers. For now let's consider this question:

Does machine-quilting enhance quilts that are otherwise hand-sewn?

Interestingly, at Road to California this year, there was a small exhibit of hand-sewn quilt tops, made long ago (most of them in the early 1900s) that were not quilted or layered with back and batting by the maker. These tops were given to modern machine quilters to finish, and the results were displayed. Studying them gave me a greater perspective on the above question.

I found myself looking at them through the imagined eyes of the original maker. Would she have been pleased with the finished quilt?  As you look at some of the quilts below (and in a few cases, detail shots), ask yourself, if you had hand-sewn the top, would you have liked the way it looks today? Does the machine quilting enhance the work of the original maker? I've numbered the quilts (in no particular order), so you can respond (regarding specific quilts) in the comments if you wish. As always, you can click on the photos to enlarge them.
#1 - Vintage Top with Modern Machine Quilting

#1 - Vintage Top with Modern Machine Quilting, detail

#2 - Vintage Top with Modern Machine Quilting

#3 - Vintage Top with Modern Machine Quilting

#3 - Vintage Top with Modern Machine Quilting, detail

#3 - Vintage Top with Modern Machine Quilting, detail

#4 - Vintage Top with Modern Machine Quilting

#5 - Vintage Top with Modern Machine Quilting

#5 - Vintage Top with Modern Machine Quilting, detail
What do you think of these? Which tops are enhanced by the machine quilting? Are there any that don't look right to you? If so, why not?

Since there is quite a difference looking at the photos as opposed to seeing the actual quits, my responses to these questions might be different than yours. To my eyes, #1 offers a believable connection and balance between the quilting and the original applique or piecing. It felt like the original maker would have done something very similar, only by hand.

I didn't want the quilting to overpower the original as it does in #3 and #5. Both of these were so stiff from the dense quilting, that it would be like sleeping under a piece of cardboard. Both of them made me feel disjointed. The lovely charm and grace of the original work seemed lost. I'm not sure why, but the background color created by machine quilting with colored thread in #5 seems almost weird... maybe because it's such an unlikely choice for the period.

Number 4 has the look of a chenille bedspread, both pretty and more-or-less "of the period." It works for me, even though the quilting is dense. The same is true for #2.

More from Road to California coming soon...




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I have Dupuytren’s Disease


Last November an odd, rather hard, bump suddenly appeared in the palm of my right hand. A few weeks later, in a routine physical exam, I asked my Dr. what the lump might be. She thought it was a harmless, ganglion cyst. In January, suddenly two more lumps appeared in the same area of my palm, about 1.5 inches below my little and ring fingers. Feeling some concern about this, I made an appointment with a hand specialist, a surgeon, who told me with absolute certainty that I had Dupuytren’s Disease.



In case you are wondering, Dupuytren (pronounced sort of like doo-pi-tron), is the name of a French surgeon who pioneered a surgical treatment for the disease in 1831. With thanks to the internet, especially The International Dupuytren Society website and forum, I have learned a lot about this disease and have since taken steps to prevent or at least slow its further development.

Dupuytren’s Disease (also called Dupuytren's contracture) is basically a non-malignant, tumor-building, auto-immune disease that affects the hands, with about a 40% chance of eventually turning a functioning hand into a claw which cannot be opened. The disease targets the tiny fibers which join the skin on the palm and fingers to the structure of the hand (bone, muscles, tendons, nerves). The fibers become enlarged, hardened, and inflexible. In roughly 60% of the people who have it, the disease at some point goes dormant, leaving the person with partial to full use of their hand(s). For the unlucky 40% who lose the use of their hand(s), the options are grim. Surgery to remove the fibrous tumors, along with 6 months of physical therapy following surgery, is a horrendous ordeal. And often the small bits of remaining tumor grow and spread, resulting in a closed, useless hand again some months or years later. There is no known cure.
You can skip this paragraph if you are not so interested in the disease in general. In the following paragraphs, I’ll tell you about my personal experience with it so far... Some other names for Dupuytren’s Disease are: claw hand, Viking disease, palmar fascia contracture, and flexion contracture. Because it often causes one or more fingers to curl inward toward the palm, it is sometimes confused with trigger finger, an entirely different affliction. It is linked to heredity, Northern European descent, diabetes and other auto-immune diseases. Men are more likely to have it than women, and its incidence increases in older (over 50) folks for both men and women. Often it is dormant until there is injury or trauma to the hand(s). There are currently four categories of treatment: radiation therapy (successful only in the very early developmental stage of the disease), needle aponeurotomy (generally considered for stage 1 or 2 of the disease with 6 to 90 degrees of deformation), collagenase injection (also stage 1 or 2), and surgery (advanced stages).
This is a copy-machine scan of my right hand in August, 2012. At that time, I probably had the disease, but there were no obvious signs of it.

This is a piece I created using the above scan. It celebrates the many blessings of my hand. Who knew that 4 years later it would be in jeopardy.
If you know me at all, you know that I love to stitch! Give me a needle and thread, a few beads or layered fabric that needs hand-quilting, and I am in heaven. If I couldn’t stitch, I’d be miserable. Already, I noticed (in January) that my right (dominant) hand was losing flexibility and strength. I dropped things all of the time because my grip was not as strong. And I could not spread my fingers or flex them backwards. The progression was alarmingly fast at that time, and affected my ability to hold and control a needle, scissors, etc.

So, as I learned more and more about the possible development of my disease, I decided to take an immediate step to get radiation therapy, which reportedly has an 85 to 93% chance of halting further development of the disease, if taken when the disease is in its initial, active, developmental phase. The treatment consists of 5 + 5, daily, low-dose, radiation sessions (with a 3 month or more interval between the first and second five sessions).

In the USA, the medical profession has mostly chosen to ignore the early stages of the disease, because (I guess) it only becomes a serious issue for about 40% of those who have it, and they (like me) are mostly older folks with a good chance of dying before the disease becomes seriously debilitating. Until quite recently, treatment has been in the realm of the surgeons. The one who diagnosed me, for example, did not even mention radiation therapy. He simply said that if it got worse, much worse, we could consider surgery.

For this reason, not many hospitals or insurance plans offer or cover radiation therapy. I discovered that it is offered by Overlake Hospital in Bellevue, WA, but not covered by my Medicare Insurance Plan. The out-of-pocket expense for the treatments for one hand would be a whopping $25,000 if I chose to pay for it myself. Even if my insurance had covered it, my cost would still have been 20% or $5,000. So I began to look into other options.


I learned that one of the Radiation Treatment Centers in Germany had been treating about 300 Dupuytren pa








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The 10 best short break cruises from the UK – perfect for a long weekend




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Check Out: New Helmets, Knee Pads, Alloy Wheels, High Rise Bars, & More



A look at the latest gear to cross our desks.
( Photos: 18, Comments: 88 )




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Field Test: 2025 Devinci Troy - No Hidden Suprises



The Canadian-made Troy lives for the descents.
( Photos: 7, Comments: 134 )




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How to Enhance Your Flexibility – Exercises and Tips for Better Mobility

Imagine waking up one morning, the sun streaming through your window, and you reach out for that warm cup of coffee. As your body moves, you feel a tug in your muscles, a reminder of just how stiff and restricted movement can become over time. Flexibility doesn’t just impact athletes; it influences everyone’s daily life, ... Read more

The post How to Enhance Your Flexibility – Exercises and Tips for Better Mobility appeared first on Star Two.




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Swedish vs. Deep Tissue – Which Massage Will Leave You More Bruised?

Imagine slipping into a tranquil space, the soft aroma of essential oils filling the air, as the world outside slowly fades away. For many, this is the sanctuary sought after a long week of work or dealing with chronic pain. In that moment, whether it’s the gentle caress of a Swedish massage or the deep ... Read more

The post Swedish vs. Deep Tissue – Which Massage Will Leave You More Bruised? appeared first on Star Two.




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How exercise may help prevent Alzheimer's

Exercise could be a powerful defense against Alzheimer’s disease. Three dementia researchers explain how it works.




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British teen hospitalised after being ‘wiped out’ by a paraglider while eating at a restaurant in Turkey

The 15-year-old’s mother thought her daughter was dead after the paraglider collided with her




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Top cruise brands named at the Wave Awards – here are the winners

The industry awards recognised the best cruise brands across several categories such as food, entertainment and family




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Why Chania, Greece Should Be Your Next Paradise Vacation Destination

Situated on the northwest coast of the picturesque island of Crete, Chania stands as a testament to a vibrant mix of cultures that have left their mark over the millennia Breathtaking, famous for rich historical fabrics and the warm hospitality of his people is not appropriate to the destination; It’s an experience waiting to be discovered. This blog post will be your gateway to why Chania, Greece is the paradise you have been searching for. What sets Chania apart? A mixture of histories The streets of Chania speak of the past, whispering stories of Venice, the Ottomans and the Egyptian conquerors, each of whom left behind them a piece of its culture, architecture and spirit and through this blend of influences no Chania becomes a living canvas with so much history and beauty. The Old Port of Venice, with its magnificent lighthouse, stands as a symbol of Chania’s enduring heritage, inviting visitors to walk and marvel at the texts carved into its ancient stones. Unsurpassed natural beauty From tranquil beaches with crystal-clear waters to majestic white mountains in the background, Chania offers natural landscapes as diverse as stunning with stunning white and pink sands like Balos The Lagoon and Elafonissi Beach are not heavenly. For adventure enthusiasts, the Samaria Gorge, one of the longest canyons in Europe, is both a challenge and a reward of unparalleled panoramic views Elegant Gastronomic Delights Chania’s cuisine is typical of Crete’s many dishes. With a culinary tradition that emphasizes innovation and local ingredients, Chania offers a quality and divine culinary experience. Olive oil, wild herbs, fresh herbs and catch of the day feature prominently, delivering authenticity. The heart of Chania: its people Perhaps, though, what really sets Chania apart is the kindness and hospitality of its people. Guests are welcomed with open arms and treated as part of the family, making every experience in Chania feel personal and authentic. Whether it’s through shared meals, guided tours or casual conversation, Chanias make sure you take a piece of their heart with you when you leave Why choose Chania for your next vacation Chania, a picturesque town on the northwest coast of Crete, Greece, captures the heart of every traveler with its breathtaking beauty, rich history and crystal clear beaches If you want to relax, you relax or go deeper into history, Chania has something special in store for you. Pristine Beaches Balos Lagoon and Elafonissi Beach Balos Lagoon: Nestled between the Gramvousa Peninsula and the coast of Crete, Balos Lagoon is famed for its wild natural beauty, exotic turquoise waters, and fine white sand. This beach is accessible by boat or a short hike, offering stunning views that are worth the journey. Elafonissi Beach: Known for its unique pink sand, Elafonissi Beach is located on the southwestern tip of Crete. The beach is a protected nature reserve, providing shallow crystal-clear waters perfect for families. The island opposite the beach is accessible by foot through shallow water, revealing rare plant species and an environment unspoiled by human activity. These beaches are not just places to sunbathe and swim; they are destinations where nature’s artistry is on full display, featuring: Crystal-clear blue waters Exotic landscapes Unique natural environments Rich History and Culture Chania is a city soaked in history, with its roots stretching back to ancient civilizations. Walking through Chania is akin to traversing through time, with each step uncovering a new layer of its past. Overview of Chania’s History From the Minoan civilization to Byzantine times, followed by Venetian, Ottoman, and Egyptian influence, Chania is a living museum showcasing the rich tapestry of human history. This diverse historical influence has shaped the city’s architecture, culture, and traditions, making it a fascinating place to explore. Historical Sites The Old Venetian Harbor: The heart of Chania, this harbor is lined with historic buildings, bustling cafes, and quaint shops. The striking lighthouse, built by the Venetians and reconstructed by the Egyptians, is one of the most iconic images of Chania. The Ancient Ruins of Aptera: Located a few kilometers outside of Chania, the ancient city of Aptera presents a captivating site with ruins dating back to the Minoan era. Visitors can explore ancient temples, Roman baths, and impressive fortifications that offer a glimpse into the past. Exquisite Cuisine Step into Chania, and you’ll be welcomed with a feast not just for the eyes, but for the palate too. Cretan cuisine is a journey of taste, freshness, and tradition. Local Specialties: Dakos: A rustic appetizer featuring barley rusk topped with crushed tomato, mizithra cheese, and a drizzle of olive oil. Moussaka: A rich casserole layered with potatoes, eggplant, minced meat, and a creamy béchamel sauce. Kalitsounia: Sweet or savory cheese pies unique to the region. Health Benefits of the Mediterranean Diet: Rich in olive oil, legumes, and fresh produce, the Cretan diet is renowned for its health-promoting qualities. Dishes like Greek Salad and Grilled Seafood provide nutrients and antioxidants linked to longevity. Where to Find Local Cuisine: Tavernas in the Old Harbor serve fresh, local dishes with scenic views. Street vendors and local bakeries offer quick, delicious bites. Breathtaking Landscapes Chania’s dramatic landscapes invite both awe and adventure. Mountains and Gorges: The White Mountains: A towering range that gives you hiking trails and caves to explore. Samaria Gorge: A 16 km trek through a World Biosphere Reserve. Outdoor Activities: Guided treks are available for all levels of hikers. Boat trips allow you to appreciate the coastline from the water. Local Hospitality and Authentic Experiences The warmth of Chania’s people makes every moment spent here feel genuinely welcoming. Warm Hospitality Offered by Locals: Visitors are often greeted with a heartfelt “Kalimera” (good morning) and a smile. Many locals are eager to share stories or help guide you to the best spots. Immersive Experiences: Traditional Cretan Nights: Enjoy vibrant folk music and dancing. Local Markets: Visit the Agora (central market) to buy local honey, cheeses, and herbs. Planning Your Trip to Chania Nestled on the northwest coast of Crete, Greece, Chania is a captivating blend of scenic beauty, rich history, and vibrant culture. Planning your trip requires thoughtful consideration of when to visit, where to stay, how to navigate the city, and what experiences you shouldn’t miss. Best Time to Visit Analyzing Chania’s Weather Patterns: Spring (April to June): The weather starts warming up, making it ideal for outdoor activities without the summer crowds. Summer (July to August): Peak season with sunny days perfect for beach outings, but expect higher prices and more tourists. Autumn (September to October): Warm and less crowded. The sea remains warm enough for swimming. Winter (November to March): Cooler temperatures and occasional rain, suitable for those seeking tranquility and interested in exploring Chania’s cultural sites. Accommodations Chania offers a breadth of accommodation options to suit every taste and budget. Overview of Accommodation Options: Luxury Resorts: Beachfront properties providing exclusive amenities and breathtaking views. Boutique Hotels: Nestled in the Old Town, offering unique charm and close proximity to historical sites. Budget-Friendly Stays: Hostels and guesthouses that don’t compromise on comfort and provide excellent value. Getting Around Navigating Chania and its surrounding areas can be both fun and convenient. Tips on Navigating Chania: Public Transport: City buses are reliable for local travel. For adventures beyond the city, consider the KTEL buses that connect Chania to other parts of Crete. Car Rental: Offers the freedom to explore remote beaches and mountain villages at your pace. International driving permits are usually required for visitors. Must-Have Experiences Chania brims with activities and sights that cater to all interests. Curated List of Not-to-Miss Experiences: Old Venetian Harbor: Stroll around and enjoy the sunset views. Samaria Gorge: A challenging but rewarding hike offering stunning natural landscapes. Beaches: Balos Lagoon and Falassarna Beach are must-visits for beach lovers. Cretan Cuisine Tasting: Explore local tavernas for an authentic taste of Crete. conclusion Chania, with its perfect blend of climate, accommodation options, easy navigation and unique experiences, promises a memorable getaway. Chania is not just another holiday destination; It’s a place where every corner holds a story, every meal a celebration, every moment like heaven. Whether you’re wandering its cobblestone streets, sunbathing on its pristine beaches, or exploring its rich cultural heritage, Chania invites you to immerse yourself in its beauty, history and warmth is not just a place to visit; There is a world to experience. Make Chania your next holiday destination and discover a paradise that captures your heart.

The post Why Chania, Greece Should Be Your Next Paradise Vacation Destination appeared first on Geeky Traveller.





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Warning tax rises could force care homes to close

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Polar bears face higher risk of disease in a warming Arctic

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Police Bodycam Footage Released Shows Trump 2020 Adviser Brad Parscale Bodyslammed During Arrest

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The post Police Bodycam Footage Released Shows Trump 2020 Adviser Brad Parscale Bodyslammed During Arrest appeared first on Hispolitica.




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The rise and fall of North Korea - the sleeping giant of women's football

North Korea lags behind most of the rest of the world in several areas. But the hermit state has had an outsized impact on international women's football.




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Typical Democrat: Harris Raised One BILLION for her Campaign… Ended it $20 Million In Debt

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The post Typical Democrat: Harris Raised One BILLION for her Campaign… Ended it $20 Million In Debt appeared first on The Lid.




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News24 | Donald Trump's 'very polarising brand' raises new conflicts of interest following US election win

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I've been on 105-day cruises, but this 13-day one was the toughest. Its itinerary had a major flaw I'll avoid on future trips.

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I helped Tom Cruise and other celebrities divorce, but I've been happily married for 38 years. I've learned that dates — and postnups — can be key to marital bliss.

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US Navy destroyers unscathed after fighting off a complex attack of cruise and ballistic missiles and exploding drones

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AI labs – Learning unsupervised learning through Robotics

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Implementing Enterprise AI – Online workshop

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Meme Coins Are Soaring as Pepe Unchained Layer 2 ICO Raises $27.5 Million

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News24 Business | Nigeria to punish Musk's Starlink for unauthorised price hike

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Woah! Woman waves at a stranger's cat — and much to her surprise, it waves back (video)

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"How many aura points did I gain when I waved to a cat and it waved back," says the caption of her TikTok video, accompanied by footage of the surreal exchange. — Read the rest

The post Woah! Woman waves at a stranger's cat — and much to her surprise, it waves back (video) appeared first on Boing Boing.




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IVT MediaPlatform 4.1 Sets New Standard for Enterprise Video Communications

IVT released its latest upgrades to its MediaPlatform software.

Click to view the announcement.




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Enterprise Software: Saas vs. the Big Three

Forbes.com published an article by Dan Woods where he describes a battle between the traditional enterprise software providers (Microsoft, SAP, and Oracle) and Saas providers like Salesforce.com and NetSuite.

According to Woods, SaaS applications are easier to use because they offer streamlined interfaces that are modeled after successful web consumer sites like Amazon.com, Yahoo!, eBay, Google, etc. These SaaS interfaces were designed to be easily configurable.

Traditional enterprise software is not as easy to use because user interfaces are often created before it is known exactly how the software would be used. Customization to the user interface is often done at installation by systems integrators who do not have any actual user behavior on which to base their customizations.


The Big Three are well aware of the usability gap between their products and SaaS software, but it is unclear how to solve the problem. Oracle emphasizes Fusion as an integration platform. SAP recently announced an experiment called Blue Ruby that is attempting to adapt Ruby on Rails as a user interface and programming technology for its applications. But is it possible to affordably automate a business starting with a configurable application platform that must be adapted to the specific user interfaces and business processes in a company? The SaaS model starts with a usable interface and a working automation of common processes, and then has the configuration proceed from there. The hosted nature of SaaS removes the deployment barriers.



IVT software is the only webcasting and digital asset management applications available both as a SaaS and as a behind-the-firewall installation. With webcasting software, the divide has included the question: should there be proprietary hardware or should the solution be software-only.

IVT falls on the software-only side, believing that "black box" proprietary hardware is not scalable and is prone to obsolescence.

IVT software on a SaaS basis works with the network infrastructure that already exists, which is one of the competitive advantages we take to the enterprise video battle.