Wikipedia:Reference desk/Miscellaneous

Welcome to the miscellaneous section
of the Wikipedia reference desk.

skip to bottom

Select a section:

• Computing
• Entertainment
• Humanities
• Language
• Mathematics
• Science
• Miscellaneous
• Archives

Want a faster answer?

Main page: Help searching Wikipedia

   

How can I get my question answered?

• Select the section of the desk that best fits the general topic of your question (see the navigation column to the right).
• Post your question to only one section, providing a short header that gives the topic of your question.
• Type '~~~~' (that is, four tilde characters) at the end – this signs and dates your contribution so we know who wrote what and when.
• Don't post personal contact information – it will be removed. Any answers will be provided here.
• Please be as specific as possible, and include all relevant context – the usefulness of answers may depend on the context.
• Note:
  • We don't answer (and may remove) questions that require medical diagnosis or legal advice.
  • We don't answer requests for opinions, predictions or debate.
  • We don't do your homework for you, though we'll help you past the stuck point.
  • We don't conduct original research or provide a free source of ideas, but we'll help you find information you need.

Ready? Ask a new question!

How do I answer a question?

Main page: Wikipedia:Reference desk/Guidelines

• The best answers address the question directly, and back up facts with wikilinks and links to sources. Do not edit others' comments and do not give any medical or legal advice.

See also:

• Teahouse
• Help desk
• Village pump
• Help manual

March 10

High octane demands of supercars

The Ferrari F430 requires a recommended gasoline octane rating of 95. Here in Ottawa, Canada, the highest octane rating of most gas stations is only 91 or 93. Suppose if one was to own such a car, or a car with an even more stringent octane demand, what does one do in such a case? Surely putting 93 octane fuel into an F430 will most likely not damage it, as the on-board computer will reduce performance, but does that mean the car will never reach its full performance potential in this city? Acceptable (talk) 00:53, 10 March 2008 (UTC)

Octane ratings are one of those wonderful things where the Americas and Europe use the same word to mean different things. Specifically, Europeans use the RON, while Americans use the average of the RON and MON. So 91 octane in Canada is the same stuff as 95 octane in Europe. FiggyBee (talk) 03:17, 10 March 2008 (UTC)

Accuracy or Firepower

In a firefight, which is arguably better to have? БοņёŠɓɤĭĠ₳₯є 01:54, 10 March 2008 (UTC)

Depends what kind of firefight you are talking about. There's a rather humorous bit in Unforgiven when one of the cowboys explains to another character that being able to draw fast isn't worth a damn if you can't aim. Seems likely to me, though I've never been in a firefight (and don't plan to be in one). My brief experience with Unreal Tournament suggests that in most cases accuracy is more important (you can often pick opponents off with just a pistol if you aim well) except when you have firepower so large that accuracy doesn't matter (five rockets flying at someone at once don't need to be very accurate). --98.217.18.109 (talk) 02:08, 10 March 2008 (UTC)

This would depend entirely on the nature of the fight and how accurate and powerful the, presumably, guns in question are. Suppose if the comparison was to be made between different sniper rifles. Sniper A is shooting the relatively powerful .300 Winchester Magnum, but is very inexperienced and not very accurate with the rifle. On the other hand, Sniper B is firing measly .22's (almost never found in military sniper rifles), but is an Olympic biathlete and is highly trained. Despite the advantage in firing power, Sniper A would not be able to hit Sniper B; while Sniper B may not be able to incapacitate Sniper A in one hit, but can continue to deliver rounds until fatality occurs.

Increasing polarity, suppose if that same Sniper B, with his .22, is fighting alongside a M1A2 Abrams Tank-which has a 120mm gun. Assuming that the tank is gunned by a drunk crew whom are also high on LSD, so that one can predict that the accuracy of their aim may decrease. This difference in accuracy, depending on exactly how much, may be negligible. As mentioned by the above poster, the increase splash-damage of the 120mm will compensate for its decrease in accuracy. Acceptable (talk) 02:24, 10 March 2008 (UTC)

Well for the weapons i mean normal assault rifles (FN FAL M16's AK74) and lets say that each side is equaly a match for eachother. БοņёŠɓɤĭĠ₳₯є 04:04, 10 March 2008 (UTC)

I just want to point out that your question specifies that they aren't equal. They can't have the same guns or then they'd have the same firepower, so it would all come down to accuracy. I think it would really just depend what weapons each one had and how proficient they were with them. If I've got Dirty Harry's hand-cannon and you've got Bond's PPK but my shots are about 4-5m off from my aim and you're spot on, then you'll probably win, barring luck. They are both important, but being as you can never have too much accuracy but you can have too much firepower, I'd have to opt for aim over destructive power. I think experience might prove to be a more vital factor, though. 81.96.160.6 (talk) 04:43, 10 March 2008 (UTC)

I would say firepower. You want to be able to interdict as large a space as possible. Rhinoracer (talk) 14:39, 10 March 2008 (UTC)

The reference given by 98 above to Unforgiven is apposite, as a (the?) major theme of the film is that when it comes to the fight a true killer behaves rather differently changing the odds significantly. However, context would have to be considered. I doubt that Clint's character would have stood that much more of a chance at the Somme. So, IMHO, the question is meaningless without the increased contextualising which would ruin the simplicity of the question. --Dweller (talk) 15:27, 10 March 2008 (UTC)

I don't have a good source, but my understanding is that in real-world gunfights, accuracy typically sucks. So- it depends how you want to look at it. Do you need dozens of shots because you're not hitting anything useful? You can solve that problem by aiming instead of spray-and-pray, or you can solve it by having more rounds available. I suspect the human factor is by far the more significant- even that "not very accurate" rifle can still shoot accurately enough- if you aim it properly. Friday (talk) 15:36, 10 March 2008 (UTC)

The question is not answerable because of a basic flaw. As a "firefight" progresses, casualties will decrease firepower without affecting accuracy. Bring your 100 men with smooth-bore muskets shooting round ball to within 50 yards of my 50 men with rifled muzzle-loaders shooting minnie balls. We'll wipe you out to a man in three or four volleys. --Milkbreath (talk) 16:01, 10 March 2008 (UTC)

Right now, firepower. Beginning in World War I or possibly slightly before, almost every advance in infantry weapons has been intended to increase the number of bullets an infantryman can put in the air in a given period of time. --Carnildo (talk) 22:32, 10 March 2008 (UTC)

I disagree. There's an awful lot of air and not enough metal to fill it with. If you can hit the target you don't have to spend 15 seconds pumping bullets into the ground around him. Support weapons have their tactical uses, to pin down enemies and restrict their movement, but for the average rifleman, I'd think he's likely to get more kills firing carefully than bulking up his pockets with magazines and going rambo :D\=< (talk) 15:53, 12 March 2008 (UTC)

"There's a rather humorous bit in Unforgiven" Not just humorous, accurate. A lot of the top gunslingers, contrary to Hollywood, weren't faster, but more accurate, than the guys they faced. 1st shot had to kill, & most shooters draw quick, esp from hip, can't hit for sh*t; even using Weaver stance, you gotta practise. The top pistoleros, even in the Wild West, did, 'cause it was their business, or lives on the line, & they knew it. Most duels were against scared amateurs. Trekphiler (talk) 00:25, 7 April 2008 (UTC)

Differentials in winter

When driving a car in winter on slippery road surfaces, would an open differential or a limited slip differential be better when trying to maximize safety? Acceptable (talk) 02:14, 10 March 2008 (UTC)

For a bad driver, undoubtedly the open differential. A couple of years back I was in a line of cars slowly going up a snow-covered hill. We had to go slow because any attempt to accelerate resulted in wheelspin. A 4-wheel drive vehicle came rushing past us all, able to accelerate up the hill. At the top of a hill was a bend. A 4-wheel drive vehicle has no real advantage over a 2-wheel drive vehicle when it comes to taking a bend, and the car went straight on, through a wall and into somebody's garden. Now a good driver may in some conditions be able to accelerate out of danger. Imagine an out of control car approaching on a side-road, obviously unable to stop. Its conceivable that a good driver could use the extra traction to pull out of the way, whereas an open differential car would just spin the wheels. I think that these are exceptional circumstances, and in most cases to a good driver there is little difference in town driving. Now, if you live in a remote farm, and need to get to a nearby town for fuel or food, things could be very different. In cases where you are unlikely to be found if you are stuck, and hypothermia is a real risk if you get stuck then a limited slip diff will certainly be the safer option. -- Q Chris (talk) 12:13, 10 March 2008 (UTC)

makes a difference, rwd vs fwd. rwd lsd tends to fishtail a lot in the slipperies. now, on the other hand, i have a honda civic (fwd for those who don't know) and it wasn't particuarly talented in the snow, despite being fwd; but, after a few years ended up putting in a lsd (they're available aftermarket, or you can get a genuine honda one from japanese junkyards) and the difference is such that i would never consider a fwd car without one again. since the driving wheels are being steered, instead of fishtailing, the car just tends to go where the front wheels are pointed, slipping or not. this is true in the dry as well as the slippery. my front bumper right now will testify that in some cases, the car will still just skid straight, but in most cases the fwd lsd will pull you out of a skid. there have been occasions when i've had to maneuver around big suvs, 4wd i assume, stuck in the snow in the parking lot, amost literally driving circles around them, which i can only attribute to maybe they don't use snow tires in winter, while i do, from which i calculate that

fwd lsd + snow tire > 4wd - snow tire.

Gzuckier (talk) 17:11, 10 March 2008 (UTC)

Who Should Take More Responsibility for The Global Warming?

Should poor countries or rich countries take more responsibility for the global warming? Which kind of countries make more contributions to the global warming? and which kind of countries gain more profit from making global warming? Some evidence or data support the opinion? - Justin545 (talk) 04:59, 10 March 2008 (UTC)

I assume this is an essay homework question. See global warming and the pages it links to for an overview, but the Reference Desk isn't going to do your paper for you. If you have specific questions of fact or need some help getting pointed in the right direction after doing your research, though, feel free to ask. -Elmer Clark (talk) 08:35, 10 March 2008 (UTC)

This quesion is unrelated to my paper or homework although I can not prove that. I am just curious about how people think of the global warming, especially for a controversial quesion like this. - Justin545 (talk) 09:31, 10 March 2008 (UTC)

There's an interesting map at carbon footprint showing per capita greenhouse gas emissions world wide. Julia Rossi (talk) 10:40, 10 March 2008 (UTC)

The carbon footprint is just for year 2000, it would be different if the interval was between year 1900 and year 2007. - Justin545 (talk) 01:21, 11 March 2008 (UTC)

well, the obvious thing to do is make the question per capita, in which case you probably already know the answer. Sadly, somebody who drives a 6,000 pound vehicle which will accelerate to 60 mph in 8 seconds feels it would be unfair to ask him to get something that burns less fuel as long as those sheep herdsmen in Mongolia don't have to cut down on the amount of sheep dung they burn to keep warm in the winter. Gzuckier (talk) 17:15, 10 March 2008 (UTC)

How much will it cost to ask those sheep herdsmen in Mongolia don't burn the dung and discover new kind of fuel to keep them warm in winter? Can they afford the cost? And how much will it cost to ask the guy to drive a more green car? Can he afford the cost? - Justin545 (talk) 01:21, 11 March 2008 (UTC)

Not quite: The best technique would be to look at where can make the biggest impact at the 'least' cost or at the best efficiency. The 'wealth' of the people making the change is basically irrelevant. A look at things like Comparative advantage and Economic efficiency would be a start, then consider how it could be related to climate change. Through intelligent incentivisation we can persuade people to change, we can regulate people towards change and we can even (though ideally not) outright ban things. All will be served by the right people making the changes, rather than everybody being asked to make arbitrary changes because of some moralistic/ethical reasoning - it is best to focus the efforts where most impact can be made for the least cost - all of which has little to do with wealth. 18:45, 10 March 2008 (UTC)

Car buffs please help!

Hi, I have a 1994 Lexus ES300 and the check engine light came on. The code is "EGR Valve Insufficient flow". I am trying to save money by avoiding the mechanic. I've been doing some research on the internet and have found that replacing the EGR valve doesn't always fix the problem. I would be really dissappointed if i spent the $200 and the time installing the EGR valve only to see that the code doesn't go away. I was wondering if anyone had any suggestions on what I could do to fix this problem. Any help would be greatly appreciated.. thank you! —Preceding unsigned comment added by 68.7.130.43 (talk) 05:58, 10 March 2008 (UTC)

I don't know whether a categoric answer would fall under the "professional advice" category that the refdesk header warns us of, but I will give you this piece of non-professional advice; in a situation like this where you don't really understand what you're doing, it's almost always best to pay to get it done properly. A mechanic would have your car back in shape in a few hours, or at least be able to tell you exactly what's wrong with it. Doing it yourself, you could waste a week on it, spend almost as much money, and still not fix the problem. FiggyBee (talk) 06:14, 10 March 2008 (UTC)

Sometimes, if you take it to a mechanic for a diagnosis, get a price quote, then you can decide if and when you can afford to have something done. Julia Rossi (talk) 06:24, 10 March 2008 (UTC)

If you want to save money, you can ignore it. Of course, then if some new problem comes along that warrants a check engine light, you won't know the difference. It costs money to keep a car in decent shape. There's no substitute for having a mechanic you trust. Friday (talk) 15:42, 10 March 2008 (UTC)

You've got a Lexus and you're sweating $200? My advice is to make a big decision: become a seat-of-the-pants Lexus mechanic or not. I think it's fun to fix your own car; I had a Camaro that I kept on the road for years beyond its "best if used by" date. Get the Chiltons, buy whatever tools you need for each repair as it comes up (that's the money you would have given a mechanic), and go nuts. You'll learn as you go, and you can always bail out and take it to the shop if it eats your lunch. In the case of your EGR code, the first thing I would do would be to make sure that there is no vacuum leak under the hood. Listen for hissing, and visually and tactilely inspect all hoses, checking for rot at the ends and rubbing elsewhere. Give the valve itself a good looking-over, too. Don't get hit by the fan, and don't burn yourself. If you get zapped by the ignition system, you might jerk back and get into the fan or something hot or sharp, so be careful. Take your necktie off first if you're a guy and get a short haircut if you're a gal. That handsoap with orange in it works great. --Milkbreath (talk) 16:38, 10 March 2008 (UTC)

That second-to-last sentence was a nice touch. Useight (talk) 21:38, 10 March 2008 (UTC)

Computer hijacked by Spammer

How can you tell IF your computer has been hijacked by a spammer, someone looking to place shit on your comnputer that can get your ass in trouble ? 65.173.104.12 (talk) 06:15, 10 March 2008 (UTC)

I do NOT want to find out "the hard way" that some ass placed kiddie porn, other verboten matter on my computer to AVOID a police raid or some such shit. 65.173.104.12 (talk) 06:28, 10 March 2008 (UTC)

IF that happened, do I have to get a new computer ? I was also told that wikipedia was also a source of bugs as well. That shit really true ? 65.173.104.12 (talk) 06:30, 10 March 2008 (UTC)

Understandably you're anxious, so there are free anti-virus software thingys available on the internet, or you can buy one (ask at the computing desk for recommends) that can be upgraded to keep up with the latest bugs. Our article antivirus software can give you background, but don't let it give you the heebies. Also ask at the computer desk about the indications that point to your computer being a victim. Knowing more helps and afaik, wikipedia isn't the source of bugs. If you like, click on the edit button above right, copy this section and take it across to the comp desk making sure it isn't in both places at the same time. Cheers, Julia Rossi (talk) 08:33, 10 March 2008 (UTC)

Running an anti-virus scan (AVG is free) and a spyware scan (Spybot S&D and Ad-Aware are both free) are a good first start. If you are extremely paranoid then you can always spend some time checking for odd connections with TCP View.--droptone (talk) 15:42, 10 March 2008 (UTC)

If you're really, really paranoid, disconnect the ethernet cable from the back of your computer and leave it disconnected. If you think something has already been placed there, format the C drive and reinstall Windows. That, however, is a very extreme prevention method. I don't recommend it. Useight (talk) 21:33, 10 March 2008 (UTC)

Why "Pompey"?

Hi all,

Most football team nicknames make some sort of sense - the colours of the strip (the Red Devils, the Blues), predominant local occupations (the Mariners, the Hatters), abbreviations of the team names (Spurs, Wolves), club history or origins (the Gunners, the Saints)... but there's one that always puzzles me. I've checked the articles on Portsmouth and its football club (great win over the scum at the weekend, guys :), and even the article on a famous Roman, but I can't find any explanation for why Portsmouth are called "Pompey". There must be a reason.... but what is it?

Thanks in advance,

Grutness...wha? 09:10, 10 March 2008 (UTC)

From the references in the Portsmouth F.C. article, there are a number of possible reasons listed on the Royal Naval Museum website here. In addition, the Oxford Companion to Ships and the Sea gives "the British sailors' slang for Portsmouth, the English naval base. It is not known how or when the name came into being, though one theory is that it owes its origin to the fact that the local fire brigade, known by their French name pompiers, used to exercise on Southsea Common, adjacent to Portsmouth". Nanonic (talk) 09:29, 10 March 2008 (UTC)

Some fellow at the Portsmouth city museum collected a lot of competing explanations - I think there were 20 to 30 different ones and nobody really has the foggiest idea which (if any) is correct. -88.109.222.194 (talk) 16:40, 11 March 2008 (UTC)

Big Blue Moon

There's an improv game out there called "Big Blue Moon", in which one person will say "Big blue moon" then name three objects, which at first seem to be related. But I don't think they are. What is the secret to this game? I don't get it. —Preceding unsigned comment added by 69.16.89.112 (talk) 17:57, 10 March 2008 (UTC)

I haven't heard of "Big Blue Moon", but it sounds like it could be one of those trick games where what you appear to be saying or doing is just a cover for a hard-to-notice thing you're doing in addition.

For example, there's a game where you trace with your hand the action of painting a picture, and describing it as well: "The sun goes at the top, the clouds are over there", and so on, but the trick is you have to fold your arms at the end. If you don't fold your arms, you've done it wrong. However, it takes a long time for everyone to realise that the key action is the folding of the arms because it looks so natural.

Another game is where each person says a word that appears to be related in some way to the previous person's word, but the trick is each person's word simply starts with the same letter as their name (so if someone gives a word that doesn't begin with the same letter as their name, they're told they're wrong).--217.44.125.38 (talk) 22:01, 10 March 2008 (UTC)

elec + chem

i have a riddle; i put together electricity and chemistry.who am i i though it was elechtrochem making the answer to be michael faraday..but shock on me it isnt.so help —Preceding unsigned comment added by 41.220.113.117 (talk) 20:01, 10 March 2008 (UTC)

Sounds like it wasn't supposed to be a riddle if Michael Faraday was the answer.

87.102.94.48 (talk) 21:10, 10 March 2008 (UTC)

How about Humphrey Davy,or Alessandro Volta ?87.102.94.48 (talk) 21:13, 10 March 2008 (UTC)

If it is a riddle pure and simple, the answer could be Battery (electricity) - but that surely would be "what am I?". Grutness...wha? 22:00, 10 March 2008 (UTC)

A few questions about murder laws

(if any of these are crimes, it would be appreciated if the specific crime is identified, eg. first degree murder vs. manslaughter).

1. Is it a crime to kill an escaped, convicted murder?
2. Is it a crime to kill someone who attempted to kill you after you have incapacitated them?
3. If a person admits to commiting a murder after being acquitted, what is likely to happen to them (I know they cannot be tried again, but I'd assume there are some loopholes law enforcement can use to their advantage)
4. If a person is murdered, but the family explcitly (sorry about spelling) states they do not want the murderer to be tried, is it legal for the murderer to be tried?
5. This is definetely an "out-there" kind of question, but if Osama Bin Laden was murdered within New York City, would the perpetrator likely be tried? Would the crime fall under local, state, or federal jurisdiction (again, sorry about the spelling)?

These are just some questions I thought of that I became curious about. Thanks. 70.105.164.43 (talk) 21:56, 10 March 2008 (UTC)

To the best of my knowlege, the answers are "Yes", "Yes", "I suspect there are exceptions to 'Can't be tried twice'", "Yes", and "state jurisdiction, but probably wouldn't be tried". --Carnildo (talk) 22:41, 10 March 2008 (UTC)

I disagree with the last answer. Of course, Bin Laden's killer would be tried - the law doesn't make exceptions for unpopular victims. (If it did, we'd have no umpires.) However, it might be a little difficult finding a jury to convict the perpetrator. As for a family excusing the killing of one of its members, see Honor killing - not something to be encouraged. Also, you might be tempted to have your rich relatives bumped off to get your inheritance early. Clarityfiend (talk) 23:21, 10 March 2008 (UTC)

Murder is usually a state offense, but can be federal if it involves a federal official, takes place on federal property, etc. If someone killed bin Laden in New York City, they would probably get a pardon from both the governor of New York and the president of the US, so I doubt they would ever be tried. Dave6 ^talk 00:50, 12 March 2008 (UTC)

I wouldn't count on it. Jack Ruby got a death sentence. No way to know if he would have gotten a commutation at the last minute, because he died of natural causes before his appeals were exhausted. --Trovatore (talk) 00:55, 12 March 2008 (UTC)

Apparently I had that a little wrong -- he won his appeal, meaning he was entitled to a new trial, and died before he could be retried. --Trovatore (talk) 02:12, 12 March 2008 (UTC)

Exceptions to the double jeopardy rule are pretty limited in the United States. If a person who had been acquitted for a murder at the state level then confessed to it, while I'm not a lawyer, I think it would be pretty categorically impossible to try him again at the state level. Under certain circumstances he could be tried at the federal level -- there's a laundry list of circumstances that make murder into a federal crime (one that sticks in my head, because it's so random, is that a murder committed at an international airport is a federal crime). If the crime could be proved to be racially motivated, even if it's not a federal murder, it still might be prosecuted at the federal level as a violation of the victim's civil rights.

If the perp had any money, he could be sued civilly for wrongful death; double jeopardy does not prevent such lawsuits. --Trovatore (talk) 23:24, 10 March 2008 (UTC)

Oh, also: what I said about "at the state level" assumed that the murder was in the jurisdiction of only one US state. Once in a while two states may claim jurisdiction (for example, if the vic was kidnapped from one state and killed in a different one) and then an acquittal in one state might not protect the perpetrator in the other state (and in the example given I suspect the feds could claim their bite at the apple as well). --Trovatore (talk) 23:56, 10 March 2008 (UTC)

Mmm. Fifth Amendment: nor shall any person be subject for the same offense to be twice put in jeopardy of life or limb. Unlike some amendments, this is a right and protection of individuals, not a restriction upon the creation of laws. Of course, they could be convicted of kidnapping in Ohio after being acquitted of murder in Illinois. But they could not be convicted for the same murder anywhere, after having been acquitted of it anywhere. --jpgordon^∇∆∇∆ 00:06, 11 March 2008 (UTC)

That's what the fifth amendment says, to you and me. Surely you understand that everything is different to a lawyer. There's a large body of case law on this issue, and it doesn't always work the way the simple text suggests. (As a practical matter, if the double jeopardy rule were enforced that strictly, it would have been effectively legal for a white person to kill a black person in the South for significant parts of our history. And I suppose it was, but not quite as blatantly as it could have been.) --Trovatore (talk) 00:50, 11 March 2008 (UTC)

Oh, and also I don't know that it changes that much to say that one trial is for murder and the other for kidnapping. Again, I'm not a lawyer, but I think that double jeopardy ordinarily protects you from two trials on the same facts, even if the prosecution construes it as a different offense. Otherwise the protection would be pretty meaningless. Terry Nichols could be tried in Oklahoma because it was separately sovereign over the case, not so much because the state case alleged different victims. Otherwise they could have tried him 168 times until they found a jury to sentence him to death. And if the man who allegedly left his car in the way of a train in Glendale manages to get off on murder charges (not sure if he's been tried yet) I don't think California would be able to try him again for train wrecking causing death (which is also a capital offense in California).

But I admit I'm not that sure. The double jeopardy article has a reference to a 1995 case where an offense, and conspiracy to commit that offense, were adjudged separate for double jeopardy purposes. Seems like a reach to me. --Trovatore (talk) 03:54, 11 March 2008 (UTC)

So, wait. The trial ends. The murderer has successfully lied their way through it and secures an acquital. After the gavel strikes, they jump up and dance around, shouting, "Ha ha, you idiots! I totally did it,and here's how!" Is there seriously nothing to be done about that?? Or do you just have to arrest them for perjury and tack on a really intense prison sentence? Or what? --Masamage ♫ 04:22, 11 March 2008 (UTC)

• Nope, nothing. Not in the US, anyway. And remember, the murderer doesn't have to lie; the murderer doesn't have to testify -- so not even a perjury charge, perhaps. --jpgordon^∇∆∇∆ 05:14, 11 March 2008 (UTC)

An important distinction is that each murder that you are accused of can be considered a separate act. If you remember the (godawful) movie Double Jeopardy, the woman was convicted of murdering her husband, and then assumed she could not be again convicted of murdering her husband -- that was wrong. Even if she was convicted (though wrongly) of murdering her husband on Tuesday in Toledo; she can legally be convicted again of murdering her husband on Friday in Frankfurt. Even though it's the same victim, it is a very different crime. Assuming you were acquitted of murdering Fred, if evidence (like your confession) came to light that you did it later, unless the way you did it was -exactly- the way you were acquitted of, you could be tried again without double jeopardy implications. Faithfully, Deltopia (talk) 13:15, 11 March 2008 (UTC)

I really don't think that's accurate. There has to be a distinction between a separate crime (as in the case of the film) and a separate theory of the crime (different time, location). Otherwise the protection would be completely meaningless; the people could keep trying different theories, with some basis in evidence, until they found a jury to convict. Exactly what the distinction is is no doubt complicated. --Trovatore (talk) 07:20, 12 March 2008 (UTC)

This Straight Dope article is the one from which I derived my thesis; I would have been wiser probably just to link it and not interpret it on my own, but I was too lazy to dig up the link before. As far as how accurate it is, elephino, but it sounded convincing when I first read it. Faithfully, Deltopia (talk) 09:17, 12 March 2008 (UTC)

It is not common for a defense lawyer to put his guilty client on the stand in a murder case, so the murderer mught well have been acquitted without testifying. If he testified he did not do it, then after the acquittal admitted he did, he could be tried for perjury. If he didn't testify, then no perjury, but possibly the prosecutors could dream up some other charge such as obstruction of justice if he disposed of evidence. One murderer was acquitted of murder but convicted of disposing of the body of an animal (the victim) in a river. Edison (talk) 14:47, 11 March 2008 (UTC)

The shape of old wooden puzzle pieces

I've seen old wooden jigsaw puzzles with oddly shaped pieces. Irregular, serpentine and sometimes bifurcated, but no interlocking knobby tabs, the way modern cardboard puzzles do. The closest analogy I can up with, is the map of Lake Lugano. A couple of pieces were even shaped like snaky caricatures of actual objects or animals; I remember a rabbit and a rider on his horse. Question: Does anyone know when or where this type of jigsaw puzzle was made, and whether there is a "name" out there for this kind of tiling? ---Sluzzelin talk 22:01, 10 March 2008 (UTC)

Found on google contemporary versions, [1] as an example. I've seen one with all kinds of animals in shapes that fit together, in a toy store. Can't fiind a name but these come up: free-standing (or flat) wooden jigsaw animals, wooden animal jigsaw puzzle, interlocking wooden puzzle. Julia Rossi (talk) 22:36, 10 March 2008 (UTC)

Mmmh I remember a jigsaw puzzle of canada - where the pieces were the states - not easy for a 9 year old obviously..

Older jigsaw puzzles had more interesting shapes - with more erratics - must be getting old..

Did you read the article 'jigsaw puzzle' - the odd pieces can be called 'whimsy's

The snake like pieces seem to gone out of fashion - probably something to do with making jigsaws out of carboard rather than wood - carboard is too easily bent?87.102.94.48 (talk) 22:49, 10 March 2008 (UTC)

http://imagestore.justtemplateit.co.uk/jigthings/jigsaw-information.htm answers here it seems also for snake pieces see http://imagestore.justtemplateit.co.uk/jigthings/jigsaw-puzzle-manufacturers.htm -maufac. 'chad valley'87.102.94.48 (talk) 22:56, 10 March 2008 (UTC)

(was after e.c.) Thank you Julia Rossi. I like the dog with puppies. Just to clarify, the ones I'm talking about form a rectangular picture when completed, like those modern jigsaw puzzles you find in every store. The themes were usually rural scenes in the style of 19th century realism. And only perhaps 3 of the maybe 100 puzzle pieces were shaped like animals or objects. Escher's Animal Kingdom would make for a lovely puzzle though. And thanks, 87.102, for the whimsy and the examples. Those come pretty close, though they look far more similar to modern puzzle pieces (knobby and not as serpentine) than the ones I'm thinking of. ? ---Sluzzelin talk 22:59, 10 March 2008 (UTC)

I have played with old puzzles which were made from hand-coloured prints stuck onto thin plywood and cut by hand with a jigsaw. The piece boundaries often followed outlines of items in the print, for instance the legs of horses harnessed to a coach, and the skirt of one of the passengers. As far as I know this was the original form of jigsaw puzzle. The interlocking and fully interlocking types of pieces were a later innovation, made easier by the introduction of automatic machinery. SaundersW (talk) 07:33, 11 March 2008 (UTC)

And here is a nice site from a collector of old puzzles. He concentrates on the US history. SaundersW (talk) 07:41, 11 March 2008 (UTC)

I like the whimsy in the wallpaper on the site. And Escher's interlocking motif tic. This is a strangely enchanting thread. Julia Rossi (talk) 09:44, 11 March 2008 (UTC)

Enchanted here as well, thank you for that great link, Saunders! I haven't had time to examine all of them yet, but "Gidi-yap, you horsies!" and "The Indians at Work" featured under 1900 to 1930 Hand Cut Puzzles come closest to what I have in mind. Bob Armstrong calls them "semi-interlocking" which is perhaps a good description, as they aren't "push-fit" like "A Family of Yawns" (a wonderful motif!), but not completely interlocking like the modern puzzles either. Thanks again, everyone! ---Sluzzelin talk 10:34, 11 March 2008 (UTC)

Military headwear (U.S.)

Thomas Shaw (Medal of Honor recipient)

Anyone knows why this American soldier has a German military helmet (at least of German origin) as part of his uniform? What's it called? --22:52, 10 March 2008 (UTC)

The answer to the first part seems to be that it was part of the dress uniform of the 9th Cavalry (and possibly other units), as you can see in this picture. I can't really comment on how this type of helmet came to be adopted, except to say that it's a fairly common component of cavalry uniforms in this period. Carom (talk) 22:58, 10 March 2008 (UTC)

The second part of your question - it appears similar to a Pickelhaube, although I'm not sure. Carom (talk) 23:04, 10 March 2008 (UTC)

http://www.spurlock.uiuc.edu/collections/new/pickelhaube.html various other places confirm the US army used pickelhaube type helmets at one time...87.102.94.48 (talk) 23:32, 10 March 2008 (UTC)

also here http://www.buffalola.com/Re-enactment.htm (bottom picture)- why they sometimes wear soft hats, and other times the hard one is another question..87.102.94.48 (talk) 23:02, 10 March 2008 (UTC)

I'm not sure of the exact date, but I know that some point in the mid 1800's to the early 1900's the Marine Corps used the pickelhaube as it's dress cover. --AtTheAbyss (talk) 12:27, 12 March 2008 (UTC)

Xena Wikipedia

I was wondering, if been doing a lot of editing for other wikipedia and was looking for a source for this RPG I'm working on. Since, no definate source for the show "Xena, warrior princess." Not one that I could find in wikipedia anyways. I was wondering if there was one or not?66.122.165.197 (talk) 22:56, 10 March 2008 (UTC) QueenPrudence @ Charmed Wikipedia.

? Xena , Xena: Warrior Princess RPG's Xena:_Warrior_Princess#Video_games http://www.google.co.uk/search?hl=en&q=Xena+Warrior+Princess+game&meta=

What were you looking for - citations maybe?? 87.102.94.48 (talk) 23:11, 10 March 2008 (UTC)

weird behavior of my Alaskan Malamute

I own a purebred Alaskan Malamute. When I take him for a walk on the road, whenever he sees or hears water gurgling in the ditch, he jumps for the moving water and bites around in the water. Why on earth would he do that? J.delanoy^gabs_adds 23:05, 10 March 2008 (UTC)

Because it's fun? Corvus cornix_talk 02:14, 11 March 2008 (UTC)

Seems like it - dogs I've had preferred to drink in that way from the garden hose than their own dish prob as you say, because it's fun. Julia Rossi (talk) 09:47, 11 March 2008 (UTC)

Bliss for my Shepherd was to sit in a shallow fast moving stream and tear a log to pieces.86.219.36.125 (talk) 14:53, 11 March 2008 (UTC)DT

Name of song

I came across this song the other day on the radio. It was sung by a female and has a relatively uplifting tune. The only lrical excerpts I remember from it is something that goes like "...here she goes (again)..." In the chorus and towards the ending, I seem to recall her repeating that phrase. The song is at least several years old; I think it's between 1990-2000. Acceptable (talk) 23:22, 10 March 2008 (UTC)

Maybe There She Goes Again, in one of its various covers?--Fuhghettaboutit (talk) 23:35, 10 March 2008 (UTC)

Regrettably, I think the user is far more likely to be referring There She Goes by the La's and by the band with the worst name of all time. A sample of the La's version can be found here; click at your own risk.--The Fat Man Who Never Came Back (talk) 01:43, 11 March 2008 (UTC)

The Sixpence None the Richer version of There She Goes is from the time period Acceptable is asking about, and it's pleasant enough (and repetitive enough) that it sounds like it's probably right. (There She Goes Again, despite having a similar name, is a very very very very very different song, as the one line about its meaning in that article suggests.) --Masamage ♫ 01:53, 11 March 2008 (UTC)

Ah yes, thank you guys. The version I heard on the radio was indeed "There She Goes" by Sixpence None the Richer. Acceptable (talk) 02:35, 11 March 2008 (UTC)

Does the Fat Man knows his bland pop music or what? :-)--The Fat Man Who Never Came Back (talk) 02:39, 11 March 2008 (UTC)

You bet, but there is a worse band name. --Milkbreath (talk) 03:09, 11 March 2008 (UTC)

The Bobs have a whole song about Naming the Band. Personally I decided a long time ago that if I ever started a band it would be called Spock and the Space Hippies. It's on record now, so don't any of you try stealing it. --Trovatore (talk) 03:15, 11 March 2008 (UTC)

I like all of these band names, actually; this one is infinitely more disturbing. --Masamage ♫ 04:24, 11 March 2008 (UTC)

Here is my take on the subject. Phileas (talk) 13:00, 11 March 2008 (UTC)

I had a friend in high school who loved a band with a particularly foul-mouthed name. --98.217.18.109 (talk) 15:14, 11 March 2008 (UTC)

As far as I can tell, band names are formed by combining a random noun with a random adjective or verb. --Carnildo (talk) 21:25, 11 March 2008 (UTC)

March 11

Can you tell me if this picture has a name?

I recently came across a picture that I remembered seeing before. It is graphic depicting a young woman with green eyes, looking upwards. She has long black hair and is wearing a black shirt. She is on the left side of the picture, the rest being just a gray background. I have seen this picture many times before and I was just wondering where it is from originally and if it has a name.

link. [[2]]

Thanks 129.100.207.140 (talk) 01:35, 11 March 2008 (UTC)

It looks like it's a photoshopped variation on an image submitted by DeviantArt member "vaoni-stock". I found some variations on a similar one in her gallery, such as "Dreaming girl" or "beautiful creature 2" but didn't have the nerve to search the entire gallery for the one you supplied. I did find the original photo of the similar one, which is titled vaoni stock. Hope that helps you find it. ---Sluzzelin talk 12:04, 11 March 2008 (UTC)

Torque: speed vs towing

I may have asked this before, but a consensual answer was not reached. Suppose if one takes two cars: a pick-up truck, who is trying to tow a trailer, and a sports car, who is doing laps around a track. It is in both their interests to maximize the output torque in order to optimally achieve their goals. The pick-up truck is able to tow a heavy weight, but is unable to accelerate very quickly and the sports car is vice-versa. How does the torque determine this? Is it just because the truck has most of its torque available to it in the low-RPM ranges while the sports car has the torque available in the high-RPM ranges? Thanks Acceptable (talk) 02:33, 11 March 2008 (UTC)

The correct reasoning would be

"The pick-up truck is able to tow a heavy weight but because of the increased load/inertia is unable to accelerate very quickly"

"The sports car is able to accelerate quickly because of its high torque to load/inertia ratio"

87.102.14.194 (talk) 09:01, 11 March 2008 (UTC)

Or to put another way "a sports car towing a caravan accelerates like a truck" isn't this obvious?87.102.14.194 (talk) 09:43, 11 March 2008 (UTC)

Doesn't it have more to do with the gear ratio? AlmostReadytoFly (talk) 10:42, 11 March 2008 (UTC)

Not really -obviously you can change the torque with gears , and the highest possible speed can be limited if you don't have a sufficiently high ratio available .. But the max acceleration is limited by power/weight ratio or similar quantity.87.102.14.194 (talk) 10:51, 11 March 2008 (UTC) (Unless you have a special low speed gear that gives splendid acceleration at very low speeds) - think about it - you won't make a sports car just by adding a special gearbox - you need high power ie a big engine. In what way is that not obvious?87.102.14.194 (talk) 10:53, 11 March 2008 (UTC)

In the way that you're not necessarily comparing a big engine with a small engine, but two big engines built for different purposes. Also, please stop making comments to the effect of "Well, duh". AlmostReadytoFly (talk) 13:54, 11 March 2008 (UTC)

Ok, well what would I have to do to convert a 500hp 500lbft super fast engine into a 500hp 500lbft super-towing tow-truck engine? Acceptable (talk) 17:07, 11 March 2008 (UTC)

get a new gearbox? designed for lower speed, higer torque output?87.102.74.53 (talk) 19:14, 11 March 2008 (UTC)

If I increase the output torque on, say a sports car, its acceleration should also go up. What governs whether its the towing capacity or the acceleration that increases given an increase in output torque? Acceptable (talk) 19:37, 11 March 2008 (UTC)

Both increase together.87.102.74.53 (talk) 19:51, 11 March 2008 (UTC)

This might help

F (force due to output torque) = (m_{mass car}+m_{mass towed object})a

(a is the acceleration.)

Provided there is no wheel spin the force is linearly proportional to output torque. —Preceding unsigned comment added by 87.102.74.53 (talk) 20:12, 11 March 2008 (UTC)

To be more correct you should reduce Force by the frictional and wind resistance.

The relationship between torque and force is given at Torque esp. Torque#Moment_arm_formula the case when the force is perpendicular. You might get better and more varied answers on the science or even maths desk.87.102.74.53 (talk) 20:17, 11 March 2008 (UTC)

In such a case, why cant a Ferrari F430, or other high-performance sport cars, be used to tow a heavy trailer-that can be towed by a similarly spec'd tow truck or pickup truck? Acceptable (talk) 03:24, 12 March 2008 (UTC)

Because it doesn't have a strong enough frame? Or perhaps because it lacks adhesive weight - the wheels will spin but it won't go anywhere. Tow trucks tend to be a lot heavier and have more powered wheels than sports cars. FiggyBee (talk) 04:32, 12 March 2008 (UTC)

Four Wheel Drive

I am her today to try to gain some knowledge on the four wheel drive systems used on today’s modern atvs. I personally own a 2005 Cam-Am Outlander 400 4x4 and recently have gotten the message that it's getting close to needing to be replaced after I had to weld the frame back together. But long story made short I want to try to understand exactly how the four wheel drive know as all wheel drive by Polaris works on all of their atvs and cuvs. I have done much research on narrowing down two atvs that would fit my needs, and have come up with these two choices, Polaris Sportsman 500 4x4 and the new Yamaha Grizzly 700 4x4. Myself being a Can-Am guy, I don’t know too much about the four wheel drive of either one, experience wise, I have read absolutely everything I could find on both of these atvs, but haven’t been able to acutely ride them and put them to the test. I completely understand how the Visco-Lok four wheel drive system works on my Can-Am but not so much on the other two. I know that Yamaha has a 2 wheel drive position, four wheel, and then theirs its differential lock position that boast "it is impossible to spin one wheel without all the others turing", which I have my doubts about but then again thats why I’m here. The most experience I have ever had with Yamaha was been with there slightly older model, the Grizzly 660 which even being slightly older still has the same four wheel drive, but with this said all I did was drive it around on flat land while the differential lock was engaged, right off the bat I noticed that it was very hard to steer while in differential lock, even though the four wheel drive itself felt like it would be very hard to bet in the most changeling terrain, and for that, I considered it. On the other hand with Polaris, I have had about the same experience, and it to performed extremely well, but without the difficult steering, which really caught my eye, and because of this, I am discussing it at this moment. But more so back to the main question, if anyone knows more about the four wheel drive system on a Polaris than stated please enlighten me I would greatly appreciate it. Besides what I said earlier about the Polaris, all I know is that from what I understand even while engaged in awd the front tires will not spin until the back tires lose traction and start to spin while in challenging terrain, thats about all I know. My goal by asking this question is to not end up with a atv that will spin only 3 tires when I need all four to spin kind of like the those damn Hondas lol, if there was ever acutely an atv that was supposed to be 3 wheel drive, Honda would have already beat um to it! And I don’t mean to put Honda down or anything but over the years Honda has really grown apart from what they used to be, definitely not "best on earth" anymore, sorry to say but it’s true, I have a friend who drives a Honda Rincon 650 and my 400 dose a better job on everything we throw at um, by a long shot. If Honda would only add a few more gears the Rincon would be a fairly descent machine but until then... I don’t know. Once again thank you, if you know anything else about Polaris's "true" all wheel drive and why it is commonly referred to as the only "real" four wheel drive out there today, which would help me with my desion, please let me know, thanks —Preceding unsigned comment added by 69.150.14.3 (talk) 04:18, 11 March 2008 (UTC)

Re Polaris as only "true" 4WD, there's a discussion thread on that very thing here[3]. Julia Rossi (talk) 23:04, 11 March 2008 (UTC)

Library fine

This is a bit embarrassing but. . . a few months ago I misplaced several library DVDs and ran up a $12 fine. I found and returned the materials but neglected to pay the fine in full so the library sent me a letter asking me to please pay the fine. Unfortunately this letter got caught up with a bunch of low priority mail on my desk and I didn’t see it. Per library policy they eventually forwarded the fine to a collection agency, a fact I became aware of when I got a letter from them today. Naturally I’m going to go settle the bill with the library first thing tomorrow and apologies for the hassle I caused them. The letter the agency sent me informed me of course that if I ignore them they will report me to the Credit bureau, but will just the fact that a debt was forwarded to a collection agency reflect on my credit score? Thanks, I know this is a bit trifling, but as a person who has never received any collection letter before it distressed me quite a bit. B.Boylan (talk) 06:04, 11 March 2008 (UTC)

What country are you in? If in Canada, which province? --NellieBly (talk) 07:33, 11 March 2008 (UTC)

It happens. Ring the agency as well, and tell them what's going on. They're usually understanding and sort it for you. But don't put it off till later, ok? Communication is everything with these people. Julia Rossi (talk) 09:50, 11 March 2008 (UTC)

what is the difference between common stock and preferred stock

separated question into new section AlmostReadytoFly (talk) 09:32, 11 March 2008 (UTC)

what is the difference between common stock and preffered stock? —Preceding unsigned comment added by 121.247.146.76 (talk) 09:20, 11 March 2008 (UTC)

If profit is going to stocks, its goes to preferred stock first, then common stock (if any is left).--58.111.132.29 (talk) 10:03, 11 March 2008 (UTC)

Not profit per se but dividends. -- Mwalcoff (talk) 22:54, 11 March 2008 (UTC)

It depends on your jurisdiction and on the specific preferred share. Have you looked at our article on preferred shares? TenOfAllTrades(talk) 12:24, 11 March 2008 (UTC)

what comes first?

When I workout, what should I do first: weightlifting or running? Or is there no right answer?--AtTheAbyss (talk) 12:09, 11 March 2008 (UTC)

Are you separating your upper-body and lower-body weightlifting? If so then running for a significant amount of time (so not just a warm-up) would not be a good idea. If you're running before you do upper-body lifting then you should be fine, but maybe a little tired.--droptone (talk) 14:44, 11 March 2008 (UTC)

I only run 1.5 miles, and I do upperbody and lowerbody in the same workout routine. I don't seperate them. --66.213.36.2 (talk) 15:23, 11 March 2008 (UTC)

The person you need to be asking your question is yourself. Ask your subconscious, your intuition. If it doesn't give an answer, then do neither. Vranak (talk) 15:56, 11 March 2008 (UTC)

I always run first (5 to 10kms) and then do an hour of weights. If I do weights and then run I find it a struggle to stay the distance, and generally quit. However, what works for me may not work for you.--TrogWoolley (talk) 20:38, 11 March 2008 (UTC)

I'd recommend separating your upper and lower body workouts. Really concentrate on your arms and chest one day, then take a day off. The day after that concentrate on your back, abs, etc., then take a day off. The day after that concentrate on your legs. --71.117.42.119 (talk) 17:59, 12 March 2008 (UTC)

Pronounce name

How do you pronounce "Glau" from Summer Glau's name? xxx User:Hyper Girl 13:41, 11 March 2008 (UTC)

It looks like a German spelling to me (and she's of German descent, the article indicates), which would mean, to an American, "GLA-OW" where the OW is pronounced like the sound you make to indicate pain ("Ow!") and not the sound you make to indicate surprise ("Oh!"). --98.217.18.109 (talk) 15:11, 11 March 2008 (UTC)

I don't know (as, to be honest, I hadn't heard of her). However, I would guess it rhymes with "vow" - ie like the German word "Blau" if you know how that's pronounced (I notice she has some German ancestry). You could trawl through some YouTube interviews here. The Fox interview pronounces Glau to rhyme with "vow".--217.44.171.224 (talk) 15:14, 11 March 2008 (UTC)

Or "wow", as in SUMMER WOW! --98.217.18.109 (talk) 17:02, 11 March 2008 (UTC)

Uraguay moment

Please tell me where this new expression originated. I do know what it means.Thanks.86.219.36.125 (talk) 14:55, 11 March 2008 (UTC)DT

Er, could you provide some context? A Google search on the exact phrase doesn't turn up anything likely. TenOfAllTrades(talk) 16:06, 11 March 2008 (UTC)

Like having a blond moment (as in briefly stupid), it could be from when Homer Simpson misread Uruguay as "you are gay" -- getting it wrong unintentionally -- or a Homer moment? oops, Julia Rossi (talk) 07:08, 12 March 2008 (UTC) (a bot-free moment)

Very subtle, Julia, I only just now noticed the blond. Q: Why are blonde jokes so simple? A: So men can get them. I once asked one of my wife's Girl Scouts, a natural cornsilk blonde, why she didn't act like one, and she let me know that it only applies to bleached blondes. --Milkbreath (talk) 18:12, 12 March 2008 (UTC)

Ah Milkbreath, you've raised another question about bleach and blondes that can go on the refdesk! Interestingly, the smart people in Homer's family are blonde. Q. Why do blonde jokes make us laugh? A. Because blondes have all the fun. (as told by a blonde). : ) Julia Rossi (talk) 23:38, 12 March 2008 (UTC)

Body Odor

I have noticed that several individuals, with whom I work, have a strong body odor. All these individuals are female and all over the age of 50. The odor in all of them is similial. This is not an odor one would associate with physical exercise. Wonder why this isn't present on males of the same age and what causes it.129.112.109.251 (talk) 16:48, 11 March 2008 (UTC)

Well presumably it's either stale perfume or the smell of bacteria growing on the body. See body odour. Both men and women have this, but a lot of people reduce it by washing themselves and their clothes regularly. Unfortunately, some people don't bother quite so much. Bodily smells are also influenced by diet and smoking.--Shantavira|^{feed me} 17:04, 11 March 2008 (UTC)

There was a thread before on the helpdesk about the smell of old people. Lots of interesting comments. Perhaps you can search for it? Sandman30s (talk) 19:03, 11 March 2008 (UTC)

Palmitoleic acid seems to be the culprit for ageing bodies. A scientist in Japan, Shoji Nakamura is onto it – devising products for a cosmetic line to meet the market.[4] "Over time, this fatty acid is broken down by bacteria inhabiting the skin or by lipid peroxides (which are present in larger quantities in older people), producing a substance called nonenal that 'has an unpleasant... smell... closely approximating... that of old books'." On top of that, old people's sense of smell mightn't be what it used to be. Julia Rossi (talk) 23:15, 11 March 2008 (UTC)

See 2-Nonenal. Oda Mari (talk) 09:40, 12 March 2008 (UTC)

E Honda Man Copy Writing Question

I have read the copy writing rules and cannot seem to figure out whether or not E Honda man can be copied and used on merchandise we are making. Could you let me know. It says there is supposed to be a tag from the provider that states the rules and I cannot see it. Want to be safe.

Thanks,

Four Tildes —Preceding unsigned comment added by 76.19.232.107 (talk) 16:57, 11 March 2008 (UTC)

The text on E. Honda can be copied under the terms of the GFDL, the requirements associated with which seem to be summarized here --Tagishsimon (talk) 17:32, 11 March 2008 (UTC)

Good Day, Four Tildes. You wouldn´t be related to Waltzing Ma Tilde and her sisters, one, two, three (aka Benedicta, Perpetua and Vaticana) who perform as the Four Tildes in the Down Under Choir of the Leaping Nuns ? --Cookatoo.ergo.ZooM (talk) 23:56, 11 March 2008 (UTC)

I saw that. How irreverent! -- JackofOz (talk) 05:42, 12 March 2008 (UTC)

I commented on that, but somebody removed it because he considered it "mocking", and yet this comment stays just because the poster uses an account. I see a double standard here. 206.252.74.48 (talk) 12:44, 12 March 2008 (UTC)

The diff is here. I'm in sympathy with you, 206. I couldn't see anything remotely mocking about it. It was apt, drawing attention to a humorous appelation. There is no such user as User:Four Tildes, but this anon called themselves that here, presumably to avoid being known as simply "76.19.232.107" - and it is funny. It seems to be a momentary loss of sense of humour on Tagishsimon's part, and maybe he might explain where the offence is. (However, I don't think it had anything to do with the fact that you're an unregistered user.) -- JackofOz (talk) 00:55, 16 March 2008 (UTC)

If you're talking about putting images of E. Honda onto merchandise you're creating and selling then no, it would not be legal without the permission of the copyright holder (presumably Capcom). -Elmer Clark (talk) 00:34, 12 March 2008 (UTC)

Natamycin

Does the use of natamycin as a food additive (natural mold inhibitor) cause an increase in the "superbug" phenomenom? it is mostly passed through the system in your bodily waste, so does it contribute to the ever increasing resistance to antibiotics that is happening with some bacteria? I have researched it and while it seems to have no side effects for humans, I still think it seems odd to treat our food with antibiotic. can this effect us in the peripheral? —Preceding unsigned comment added by 63.3.13.131 (talk) 17:24, 11 March 2008 (UTC)

There is concern about the general area of adaptive resistance to preservatives and sanitizers. Natamycin appears to be in the clear, for the most part - "Natamycin, usually referred to a pimaricin in this country, is effective against yeasts and moulds but has little or no effect on bacteria and is used primarily as an antifungal agent on cheese. Studies to investigate the potential for development of resistance to natamycin amongst fungi have concluded that such development is both rare and of a minor nature only. This is attributed to the lethal, as opposed to static, activity of the compound together with its instability over time." From Resistance and Adaptation to Preservatives and Sanitizers. Google searches for +Natamycin +resistance or +Natamycin +superbug provide more detail. --Tagishsimon (talk) 17:37, 11 March 2008 (UTC)

cosmetology license

what are th requirements for getting a cosmetology license in Finland/ I've looked all over the web and cant find anything. Maybe you guys can.Hairgrrrl (talk) 17:50, 11 March 2008 (UTC)

"Flesh" removal

I have a totally serious, not tongue-in-cheek question. I once heard about a guy who had his wife remove his penis because he had apparently raped her (I believe it happened about a decade ago in Erie). When police found it several hours later (on the side of the road), it was reattached, and he actually went on to do a few pornos.

My question: which part of his penis was removed, and how many hours can one's "issue" be removed before doctors cannot reattach it? And is it different for different parts (e.g., the testicles)? And who paid to put it back on, and how much did it cost?

PS. Please don't remove this thread as "medical advice" - I don't think that will be necessary here. Please forgive the morbid fascination as well. The Evil Spartan (talk) 18:52, 11 March 2008 (UTC)

You might be thinking of John and Lorena Bobbitt. Someoneinmyheadbutit'snotme (talk) 19:10, 11 March 2008 (UTC)

I certainly might. Could anyone answer the other questions posed here? The Evil Spartan (talk) 20:21, 11 March 2008 (UTC)

Many of the questions are answered in the article, others may be answers in the numerous links provided. Once you've done that are there any remaining questions? Some may be unanswerable.87.102.74.53 (talk) 21:04, 11 March 2008 (UTC)

A fascinating use of the causative have. "He had his wife remove his penis." Is that like having her scratch that place between his shoulderblades he can't quite reach? I had my hair cut, you had it coming, he had her bobbit him. BrainyBabe (talk) 23:15, 11 March 2008 (UTC)

Loss of steering

What are some things one can do to attempt to partially regain steering abilities should the steering column of one's car be damaged? Acceptable (talk) 19:34, 11 March 2008 (UTC)

is the steering column partially or fully broken? I can't see much hope in the fully broken case. If it's partially broken - do you mean that only one wheel steers or something else.

In either case the answer would be to slow down totally - to a dead stop.87.102.74.53 (talk) 19:53, 11 March 2008 (UTC)

It depends on the nature of the damage, but in general, the best way to regain steering is to call a tow truck. --Carnildo (talk) 21:30, 11 March 2008 (UTC)

If you're driving along and lose the ability to steer, I recommend using your ability to stop (vice versa is also true). If the car is parked in your driveway and you know it won't be able to steer, I think a call to a mechanic is in order. Useight (talk) 23:23, 11 March 2008 (UTC)

Did we get you the answer in time? Did you regain control? :D\=< (talk) 15:49, 12 March 2008 (UTC)

Editing Wikipedia while driving should be added to the Wikipediholism Test. 206.252.74.48 (talk) 17:21, 12 March 2008 (UTC)

Doesn't this count as asking for medical advice? HS7 (talk) 21:35, 14 March 2008 (UTC)

medley

What does this word meanJwking (talk) 19:36, 11 March 2008 (UTC)?

In musical terms, "a musical composition consisting of a series of songs or other musical pieces from various sources ". You can find this and other definitions here. SaundersW (talk) 19:39, 11 March 2008 (UTC)

In Track & Field, a medley relay is a relay where each leg or runner of the team runs a different distance than each other. For example, a 1600m medley may consist of 200m, 200m, 400m, 800m legs. Acceptable (talk) 22:52, 11 March 2008 (UTC)

http://dictionary.reference.com/browse/medley

1. a mixture, esp. of heterogeneous elements; hodgepodge; jumble. 2. a piece of music combining tunes or passages from various sources: a medley of hit songs from Broadway shows. –adjective 3. Archaic. mixed; mingled. An often jumbled assortment; a mixture: "That night he dreamed he was traveling in a foreign country, only it seemed to be a medley of all the countries he'd ever been to and even some he hadn't" (Anne Tyler). Music An arrangement made from a series of melodies, often from various sources. Sports An event in competitive swimming in which backstroke, breaststroke, butterfly, and freestyle are swum in equal distances by an individual or as divisions of a relay race. —Preceding unsigned comment added by 193.115.175.247 (talk) 14:19, 12 March 2008 (UTC)

647 Area Code

Hello. Is the 647 area code mostly used for cell phones? I have seen fax and home phone numbers starting with 647. Thanks in advance. --Mayfare (talk) 20:13, 11 March 2008 (UTC)

Oddly enough, we have an article on this. Basically, most new numbers will probably get 647, and most new numbers also happen to be assigned to cell phones. The same thing happens in the Chicagoland area - all my friend's cell phone numbers have the new overlay code (the 4th one), while their home phones have numbers from assigned a long time ago to the 3rd area code (they've added 3 of them that I can remember, probably more created before I was born). So 647 can belong to fax machines and home phone numbers if they have been registered recently. 206.252.74.48 (talk) 20:34, 11 March 2008 (UTC)

Funny cycling race picture

Some years ago I saw a picture, possibly from the Tour de France, with rider standing up with his shorts pulled down and his coach leaning out of a car window apply cream to the riders presumably sore bottom. Can somebody please provide a web link for this as I've been unable to find it. Thankyou! TrogWoolley (talk) 20:46, 11 March 2008 (UTC)

Blu-Ray home theater

Hi i saw this product under audio-hometheaters-speakers section on panasonic.ca. how would i find out how many watts this is if they dont say it on there?Jwking (talk) 20:56, 11 March 2008 (UTC)

was it here http://panasonic.ca/english/audiovideo/hometheatre/index.asp can you provide a link, or the product name, or search for that product on the internet. 87.102.74.53 (talk) 21:07, 11 March 2008 (UTC)

No. You go under audio, home theatre, third category: speakers, and then go to blu-ray surround sound. it doesnt say how many watts it is in total.Jwking (talk) 15:05, 12 March 2008 (UTC)

Press "specifications" http://panasonic.ca/english/audiovideo/audio/receivers/sbtp1000_specs.asp ? 87.102.17.32 (talk) 15:45, 12 March 2008 (UTC)

In the future could you give more details at the beginning eg "Panasonic SB TP1000" In fact if you type that into a search engine you get the answer easily. I'm not pyschic. —Preceding unsigned comment added by 87.102.17.32 (talk) 15:47, 12 March 2008 (UTC)

Police web sites

Sometimes news web sites that post photos of criminal suspects require the viewer to register and login before the pictures can be viewed (Atlanta Journal Constitution, USA in the case of Eve Carson). People are reluctant to register with websites they may only visit once in their life, especially those that require acceptance of their spam as part of their registration agreement. However, if one visits the police department web site (in this case Chapel Hill Police) the site appears to be only for promotion of the police department rather than to display photos and other information regarding suspects. Is this a common trend among American taxpayer supported police and government web sites, to use the web sites for self-promotion rather than to use the web sites to serve the public by providing suspect information to the public? —Preceding unsigned comment added by 71.100.1.30 (talk) 23:29, 11 March 2008 (UTC)

You are mistaken in presuming (by your use of the phrase "rather than") that providing information on the police department and its activities does not serve the public. In general, I would assert that it is useful for a public body to explain itself, and to the extent that it does so, make itself open to scrutiny. My long experience of watching public sector website develop suggests that the approach taken by Chapel Hill Police is commonplace and does not represent a new trend. --Tagishsimon (talk) 23:35, 11 March 2008 (UTC)

As far as I can tell, the Chapel Hill Police Department does have current news and press releases on their web site. Look on the right side, below the Calendar and above the FAQs; you should see a News box. At the moment, the Eve Carson case is the top story there. Clicking on the Additional info... link there shows all the press releases from the case, photos of the suspect, and mp3s of 911 and radio calls: link. TenOfAllTrades(talk) 02:02, 12 March 2008 (UTC)

...missing the "News" link in the right sidebar could very well be a failure on my part to more carefully scrutinize the web site or perhaps I was distracted by the photo and other information regarding the Chief. If the term "Case news" (versus "News") were displayed in the sidebar perhaps,this would have drawn my attention closer. With the photo of the Chief I was probably thinking news of an upcoming promotion rather than news of a case. Anyway, thanks for your diligent reply. Such replies are what help make the Wikipedia a strong and reliable resource. (talk) 23:42, 12 March 2008 (UTC)

Of course, Tagashsimon is also correct in his observations. Many government organizations lack the time, money, or techincal skills to maintain and update a website full of constantly-updated current events. A department budget may allow a public relations staffer to spend one day a week updating contact info and posting information about new police programs on the website, but not cover a full-time individual to post hourly updates on active cases. Given limited resources and many priorities, police departments are forced to choose the most cost-effective methods to disseminate case information. Sometimes that method is to give press releases to the media, and let their distribution machinery do the heavy lifting. (Until not so many years ago, this was pretty much the only choice that police departments had.) TenOfAllTrades(talk) 02:11, 12 March 2008 (UTC)

I worked with the media for a company and I can tell you that by comparison posting news releases to the department's web site requires far less heavy lifting than dealing directly with the media. If they get it wrong then it is your fault not theirs. (talk) 23:46, 12 March 2008 (UTC) —Preceding unsigned comment added by 71.100.173.119 (talk)

March 12

IUPUI

Has Indiana University-Purdue University Indianapolis ever considered changing its name? It's quite a mouthful. I know in Indiana, you can say, "I'm calling from yoo-ee pyoo-ee" or "eye-yoo-pee-yoo-eye" and people know what you're talking about. But when dealing with people from out of town, you've got to go through the whole 22-syllable name. Doesn't seem to do much for branding. Why don't they just call it "Indianapolis State" or something? -- Mwalcoff (talk) 01:58, 12 March 2008 (UTC)

Maybe Purdue was a big benefactor. Have you asked at the Uni, perhaps the PR department? Julia Rossi (talk) 09:07, 12 March 2008 (UTC)

Here "Founded in 1869 and named after benefactor John Purdue, Purdue University began its journey with six instructors, 39 students and a mission to provide agriculture and mechanic arts education." I believe that he provided the land on which one campus is built. Moreover I seem to remember that it is the only state university which is not called " ... State University", or "University of ... (state)". They are quite fond of that uniqueness. As for marketing, they just call it "Purdue". SaundersW (talk) 17:14, 12 March 2008 (UTC)

Purdue University and IUPUI are not the same thing. IUPUI is a "joint effort" between Purdue and Indiana University, hence the name. -Elmer Clark (talk) 17:41, 12 March 2008 (UTC)

As for the uniqueness bit for Purdue, far from it. Virginia Tech doesn't even have "University" in the title. It's debatable whether they even qualify within Indiana. Ball State University seems outside the spirit of the distinction (which suggests "<state> State University"). — Lomn 20:02, 12 March 2008 (UTC)

Virginia Tech is but a nickname. --LarryMac | Talk 20:14, 12 March 2008 (UTC)

You're right, my bad. Meant to reference Georgia Institute of Technology. That's the one without "University". — Lomn 04:06, 13 March 2008 (UTC)

My question is not how IUPUI got its name. My question is why they keep it! -- Mwalcoff (talk) 23:35, 12 March 2008 (UTC)

My unhelpfully terse answer meant that's likely why they keep Purdue, and the PR department might be a step to finding out where to start telling people of influence that it needs a better handle. Be sure to take along one they can't resist (with special attention to avoiding ending up with something like PUI). I get a feeling they keep it that way to make everybody happy. Julia Rossi (talk) 23:47, 12 March 2008 (UTC)

The response by User:Elmer Clark seems to answer that question. It's a join effort between the two institutions, who presumable both want their names attached to it. Carom (talk) 23:55, 12 March 2008 (UTC)

No ending

Why is it that many popular songs on the radio don't have a specific 'ending' but just finish with a repeating motif that is faded out as the song ends? 70.162.25.53 (talk) 05:34, 12 March 2008 (UTC)

Because fading out is easier than writing a proper ending, I reckon. See the article Fade (audio engineering) for some history... FiggyBee (talk) 05:39, 12 March 2008 (UTC)

...for some history... Clarityfiend (talk) 07:47, 12 March 2008 (UTC)

...for some history... :D\=< (talk) 15:47, 12 March 2008 (UTC)

A long time ago, radio stations used to play more than one song in a set. That is, they wouldn't stick in a house ad (see remnant advertising) or three between every song in their "commercial-free rock block". Songs that contain built-in fade-outs are convenient for this sort of programming as you can simply start the next song playing while the previous song is automatically fading out. This makes the engineer's life a lot simpler as the cues are easier.

Atlant (talk) 12:57, 12 March 2008 (UTC)

It's still fairly common in the United Kingdom for more than one song to be played consecutively, and for them to segue neatly into each other — with either no or minimal overlaying of "clutter" such as radio station idents and DJ jabber. Even if station idents are being used, a skilfully assembled combination of fading-out song and ident can sound pretty effective. (Admittedly I have always been a fan of idents, jingles and ads, almost as much as the music!) Hassocks5489 (talk) 13:37, 12 March 2008 (UTC)

There is, however, the fact that some commercial CDs also have this fading. 206.252.74.48 (talk) 14:24, 12 March 2008 (UTC)

I doubt the radio is really the big reason, personally. It became an audio convention relatively early on and has been re-used since then without much intellectual thought behind it. I think trying to find some excessively rational reason is unlikely to be fruitful here, as both fading and non-fading songs have been popular for ages. Hey Jude doesn't fade out the way it does because it is trying to be radio-friendly, it does it because it probably sounded better to them in the studio doing that than it did abruptly ending at some point. --98.217.18.109 (talk) 14:41, 12 March 2008 (UTC)

A non-fading ending can be jarring to the listener. If the song is intended to create a certain "mood" then ending abruptly would "kill the mood". Dismas|^(talk) 18:29, 12 March 2008 (UTC)

They might have got the idea from the final movement Neptune of Gustav Holst's The Planets (1914-16), which afaik was the first time any composer, anywhere, used a fade-out ending. -- JackofOz (talk) 01:33, 13 March 2008 (UTC)

Plenty of classical music has a "fade out" like ending. The first that comes to mind is the "Bydło" movement of Pictures at an Exhibition, by Modest Mussorgsky. The Ninth Symphony of Beethoven begins with a "fade in". I suspect the basic concept goes back a long way and was a relatively obvious musical effect -- and that it was only with recording technology that it became easy and effortless to the point of being so commonly used. Pfly (talk) 06:31, 13 March 2008 (UTC)

I've checked my score of "Bydlo" and it comes to a definite end, with a double bar line, although there's a fermata on the last note, meaning that it's to be held for a little longer than normal, maybe 2 seconds, but not for as long as the player likes. There's a similar thing with Schubert's Moment musical in F minor, and many other pieces - all of which have a definite end. In Neptune the innovation was that there was no definite end, and no final double bar line, giving the performers licence to continue the music for as long as they could sustain a gradual diminution of volume, to the point where it finally becomes inaudible. That's what a lot of pop songs do - they just gradually fade away, with no definite end (except for the actual end of the recording, of course). -- JackofOz (talk) 23:36, 15 March 2008 (UTC)

And then there's the "endless" last track on The Beatles' Abbey Road album which the CD version rather-imperfectly emulates...

Atlant (talk) 15:47, 17 March 2008 (UTC)

Maybe we should coin a term for such pieces of music. I suggest "old soldiers". -- JackofOz (talk) 02:44, 18 March 2008 (UTC)

Police in New York

I was reading the Sean Bell article, and it says that "[Police] department guidelines prohibit shooting at a moving vehicle, even if the vehicle is being used as a weapon". Why is this? Is there a famous case that caused this regulation? Surely that law could potentially cost lives? Any insight would be appreciated, especially from New Yorkers. Thanks a lot 81.96.160.6 (talk) 06:41, 12 March 2008 (UTC)

I think you will find that shooting the vechicle is illegal, shooting the person in it is not. ie. they are not allowed to try to shoot out the tyres or blow up the gas tank etc. etc.--155.144.251.120 (talk) 22:45, 12 March 2008 (UTC)

A guess: if a vehicle is stolen and used in a crime, if police damage the vehicle, the police department could be held responsible for repairs once the vehicle is recovered. Even if the perpetrator utterly totals the vehicle, the police department could be held to pay for part of replacement/repair if police-inflicted damage is discovered. Then again, I don't know the laws involving stolen vehicles and police damage. HYENASTE 19:04, 13 March 2008 (UTC)

It appears that it's an internal regulation of the New York Police Department's Patrol Guide, which states

"Police officers shall not discharge their firearms at or from a moving vehicle unless deadly physical force is being used against the police officer or another person present, by means other than a moving vehicle."

This article here supplies that text, as well as commentary from a variety of police and other sources. How – or even whether – the regulation would be enforced seems very much an open question. The full 'Deadly Physical Force' section of the 2004 Guide is available here. TenOfAllTrades(talk) 19:18, 13 March 2008 (UTC)

The Stock Market Doesn't Make Sense III

Thanks all for explaining the stock market. A new question if you can tolerate one.

From the Chrysler article:

On May 14, 2007 DaimlerChrysler AG announced the sale of 80.1% of Chrysler Group to American private equity firm Cerberus Capital Management, L.P., although Daimler continues to hold a 19.9% stake. Chrysler LLC is the new name.[1] The deal was finalized on August 3, 2007.[2]

How does a public company just sell itself like that to a private equity firm? What happens to the stock? The stockholders?

66.91.224.203 (talk) 10:11, 12 March 2008 (UTC)

The following is speculation, since I have not researched the subject, but I think it likely that:

DaimlerChrysler AG owned 100% of the stock of Chrysler Group (and, for all I know, purchased that group by swapping its stock for the Chrysler Group stock previously owned by Chrysler Group stockholders)

DaimlerChrysler AG sold 80.1% of the stock that it owned, receiving money as a consideration.

Stockholders in DaimlerChrysler AG will get some share of the money received, either in dividends or via a share buy-back (which has the effect or compensating those who sell their shares, and increases the value of the remaining stock).

There being no other Chrysler Group stockholders than DaimlerChrysler AG, there would be no Chrysler Group stockholders affected by the sale.

The Chrysler Group shares that were sold are now owned by the private equity company.

On this basis, I suspect the reason it does not make sense is that you start from the assumption that there were other shareholders of Chrysler Group, thus raising the question of their consent to the sale of the company, &c. I do not think that ssumption is sound.

I think you also assume that DaimlerChrysler AG is the same as Chrysler Group, and that DaimlerChrysler AG has sold itself. It has not; it has sold a company that it owned. --Tagishsimon (talk) 10:37, 12 March 2008 (UTC)

wireless

I live in the uk and i have virgin media tv phone and internet, i have my pc in one room with my modem and my ps3 in the other room the ethernet cable wont reach the other room, is their an easy solution to this? (not just a longer cable) —Preceding unsigned comment added by 193.115.175.247 (talk) 10:50, 12 March 2008 (UTC)

Do you have wireless? According to the Wi-Fi article, "A typical Wi-Fi home router using 802.11b or 802.11g with a stock antenna might have a range of 32 m (120 ft) indoors and 95 m (300 ft) outdoors."

no, do i simply buy a wireless router?? if so is it easy to connect>? —Preceding unsigned comment added by 193.115.175.247 (talk) 13:34, 12 March 2008 (UTC)

not at the moment, how do i get it? do i simply buy a router?? if so how do i connect it?? —Preceding unsigned comment added by 193.115.175.247 (talk) 13:33, 12 March 2008 (UTC)

OK, if you have any model of the PS3 other than the 20GB version you should be fine. All you need to do is buy a router and connect your modem to the port labeled "internet" and your PC to any other port. Then find the wireless access point with the PS3 and voila, you're online. However, I highly recommend setting up some wireless security. I think cnet.com has nice, detailed instuctions. 206.252.74.48 (talk) 14:21, 12 March 2008 (UTC)

So if i pop into pc world they should know what im talking about and i'l b able to go home and set it up easily enough?? —Preceding unsigned comment added by 193.115.175.247 (talk) 15:51, 12 March 2008 (UTC)

Probably. Things can get a little more complicated if you set up a secure network but it's not rocket science. However, this solution is certainly going to be more expensive than just buying a longer cable. -Elmer Clark (talk) 17:46, 12 March 2008 (UTC)

Do make sure that you buy only a router, and not one with an ADSL modem built in. The latter are very common because so many people have ADSL. Common terms you want to look for in consumer kit are "broadband router" or "cable router". If you see any mention of ADSL it's not what you want. 81.187.153.189 (talk) 21:08, 12 March 2008 (UTC)

what does "uhc" stand for (this thing mcdonalds use to keep food heated)?

maybe other companies too. TIA ,Etaicq (talk) 12:45, 12 March 2008 (UTC)

Is it an Upright Holding Cabinet? TenOfAllTrades(talk) 13:13, 12 March 2008 (UTC)

Sharp

Does Sharp sell any of its Laptop/Notebook PCs in Europe, or only in the US and Japan? Thanks. 125.21.165.158 (talk) 12:48, 12 March 2008 (UTC)

In the UK they don't.87.102.17.32 (talk) 14:02, 12 March 2008 (UTC)

To the edge of your chair and beyond

There used to be a space race between Russia (ussr) and USA. However, there seem to be many countries taking part in and helping with the International space station (ISS) How did this come about? were there talks? who was invited? who was not invited? what were the reactions? Who does what, and who governs who does what? is there a commitee that says eg canada will do the arm and Europe will do the other thing. and any other info relating to this will be greatly appreciated. Thanks, see yall in space in a few years. —Preceding unsigned comment added by 193.115.175.247 (talk) 14:15, 12 March 2008 (UTC)

International Space Station has most if not all of your answers in it. If you have more questions after reading it, please feel free to ask back here. --98.217.18.109 (talk) 14:30, 12 March 2008 (UTC)

Yeah, sorry about that, so, why are EVA's shuttles space suits ect always white? —Preceding unsigned comment added by 193.115.175.247 (talk) 15:20, 12 March 2008 (UTC)

So as to reflect heat, I'd speculate. --Tagishsimon (talk) 15:26, 12 March 2008 (UTC)

Bad Somalis

So far, I have heard that all Somali girls are good because they follow that much, but I heard there are some bad Somali girls because they don't follow Islam and they disgrace their culture by dressing up bad in their traditional clothing. Do bad Somali boys upload videos of bad Somali girls doing something bad on the Internet? Sorry if I have heard the Somali community. Don Mustafa Toronto Ontario Canada 10:33 UTC —Preceding unsigned comment added by Don Mustafa (talk • contribs) 14:34, 12 March 2008 (UTC)

Rule 34 suggests the answer would be yes. Somalia's telecommunications infrastructure is not good, with no access being the norm, dial-up access the exception, and broadband access rare indeed ... I suspect the answer is no. --Tagishsimon (talk) 14:57, 12 March 2008 (UTC)

You obviously haven't seen enough to be properly convinced of Rule 34. :D\=< (talk) 15:45, 12 March 2008 (UTC)

Rule 34 in action 81.187.153.189 (talk) 21:17, 12 March 2008 (UTC)

Flip-flop and slide-in sandals

Where can I get plain old flip-flops and plain old slide-ins sandals with the straps having the same colours? and these colours are: red, blue, purple, grey, orange, black, white, teal, green, yellow, brown and pink. I am buying them for my Somali friend's sister. Don Mustafa Toronto 10:43 UTC —Preceding unsigned comment added by Don Mustafa (talk • contribs) 14:43, 12 March 2008 (UTC)

Canada - Class B Security Clearance

What steps must be taken to obtai? Level of access if obtained? General definition? —Preceding unsigned comment added by 208.38.59.162 (talk) 14:48, 12 March 2008 (UTC)

Could you provide a bit more information about the context or the job where a "Class B" security clearance might be required? I couldn't find any info that obviously pertained to such a clearance. A bit of Googling suggests that the Canadian Security and Intelligence Service recognizes three levels of security clearance:

• Level I (Confidential)
• Level II (Secret)
• Level III (Top Secret)

The blurb on their site says [5],

"Level I and II security clearances involve checking CSIS databanks. Level III security clearances require a full field investigation, which involves checking CSIS records; interviewing friends, neighbours and employers; consulting with local police; and, possibly interviewing the applicant."

Is Class B a government designation, or something provided by a private company? Is it an extra endorsement on top of one of the other clearance levels? TenOfAllTrades(talk) 15:44, 12 March 2008 (UTC)

In what country? FT2 ^{(Talk | email)} 22:15, 13 March 2008 (UTC)

Mastodon

I wish to please know more about this as Metal Heads should all be brothers(and sisters)

After the televised performance, member Brent Hinds was reported of having a severe head injury. Blabbermouth.net initially reported that it was a result of a brutal assault [13] but a police report later suggested that an inebriated Hinds initiated a conflict with System of a Down bassist Shavo Odadjian and musician William Hudson.[14] Hinds suffered brain hemorrhaging, a broken nose and two black eyes but made a full recovery.

Thanks —Preceding unsigned comment added by 193.115.175.247 (talk) 16:32, 12 March 2008 (UTC)

See Sibling rivalry. --Tagishsimon (talk) 16:44, 12 March 2008 (UTC)

Very amusing. see sarcasm —Preceding unsigned comment added by 193.115.175.247 (talk) 17:12, 12 March 2008 (UTC)

Did you check out this reference from the article? Just seems like your everyday drunkenness-induced scuffle. -Elmer Clark (talk) 17:52, 12 March 2008 (UTC)

What is a Yaris?

Not the model of Toyota, but where does this word originate? Does it translate from Japanese as something? Beekone (talk) 17:38, 12 March 2008 (UTC)

Certainly not from Japanese, nor from Chinese or any syllabic language to be exact, but it has to mean something. Admiral Norton ^(talk) 17:48, 12 March 2008 (UTC)

It doesn't have to mean anything. They could very well have just made it up. Dismas|^(talk) 18:35, 12 March 2008 (UTC)

Agreed, I should have mentioned that in my first post. I don't claim to know what it means or that it means anything, that's why I'm asking. You seem uncertain or speculative in your answer, so I think I'll hold out for someone who may know for sure. Beekone (talk) 18:38, 12 March 2008 (UTC)

'According to Toyota, Yaris is a combination of the name of a goddess in Greek mythology, Charis, and the German expression of agreement, "ya," because "we think this new name best symbolizes the car's broad appeal in styling and is representative of Toyota's next generation of global cars."' from here. Be sure to follow the link and read the sentence after the above. --LarryMac | Talk 18:51, 12 March 2008 (UTC)

Ha ha, thanks! Beekone (talk) 18:59, 12 March 2008 (UTC)

OCZ Neural Impulse Actuator

Hello,

Does anyone know how this Neural Impulse Actuator thing actually works? Also I've read around and can't seem to find any information on how many inputs this thing can cover. I mean will it be simple keyboard buttons, mouse control, or many many inputs?

Feel free to move this to the computer desk if you feel it is more necessary.

Thanks

89.241.203.130 (talk) 20:12, 12 March 2008 (UTC)

March 13

Methods of execution

Although lethal injection is touted as being more humane than cyanide (due to pain associated with oxygen deprivation at the cellular level, correct me if I am wrong) I have heard several suggestions as to alternative methods. One was the use of carbon dioxide but I'm not sure if this causes pain prior to rendering it's victim unconsciousness. My question is, what about sodium methoxide since it is purported to kill nerve cells before the pain of the burn it inflicts can even be transmitted? 71.100.173.119 (talk) 00:04, 13 March 2008 (UTC)

This is ugly. Topseyturvey (talk) 07:40, 13 March 2008 (UTC)

Sodium methoxide is conveted practically instantly to sodium hydroxide and methanol in the presence of water. Believe me that it does cause painful burning sensations. I would imagine that a painless method would involve an overdose of painkillers first.87.102.94.198 (talk) 12:46, 13 March 2008 (UTC)

Your answer is even uglier. Do you have any moral sense at all? Topseyturvey (talk) 06:44, 14 March 2008 (UTC)

What exactly is ugly about my answer. And since when have you had the right or the ability to morally judge me? 87.102.83.204 (talk) 09:52, 14 March 2008 (UTC)

It is the lives of human beings that you are talking about ending, not dealing with a plague of fire ants or cockroaches. If you do not understand this you suffer from the most profound form of moral turpitude. If the question was would it be quicker to kill Jews using zyklon B or carbon monoxide gas, would you have answered? Yes, I think you probably would. Topseyturvey (talk) 06:24, 15 March 2008 (UTC)

Moral sense or turpitude? Give me a break. There is no lack of morality in upholding real deterrents to murder, rape and other capital crimes such as the death penalty by certain and rightful execution. Making that execution faster or by any other means a bit more humane is not lacking in morality either. What is ugly is that capital punishment is in many cases not deterrent enough. But to suggest a connection between lawful execution by the State and the victims of the Holocaust is as ugly and immoral as anyone can be. —Preceding unsigned comment added by 71.100.174.10 (talk) 06:03, 16 March 2008 (UTC)

ha, there is nothing ugly about this at all, i actually think it is quiet intresting...Vagery (talk) 18:19, 14 March 2008 (UTC)

Re. :Public Access to the Paranormal News

WHY IS THE FOLLOWING REMOVED: FIRST THE WEEKLY WORLD NEWS DISAPPEARS, THEN THE SUN (SUPERMARKET TABLOID) IS ALSO GONE, NOW THE EXAMINER IS NOW ALSO GONE ? WIKIPEDIA IS NOT (SUPPOSED TO BE) CENSORED. IS THE CIA BEHIND THIS, AS INDICATED BY OPERATION MOCKINGBIRD AND ROBERTSON PANEL ? MAYBE SOMEONE CAN SEE THIS QUESTION WITHOUT HAVING TO USE A MICROSCOPE. A LOT OF PEOPLE WHO BUY THESE PAPERS DO NOT CARE ABOUT WHY BRITNEY SPEARS WILL NOT KEEP HER CLOTHING ON. SOME OF THE HEADLINES ARE REALLY FUNNY SUCH AS "JIMBO WALES KICKED OUT BY A GHOST!!!!" 65.173.105.241 (talk) 00:07, 13 March 2008 (UTC)

I CANNOT FIND THESE IN ANY STORE AT ALL. 65.173.105.241 (talk) 00:11, 13 March 2008 (UTC)

First, please try to refrain from using all caps, I do not appreciate being yelled at. Second, what is your question asking? I do not understand.--Omnipotence407 (talk) 00:31, 13 March 2008 (UTC)

Why are the tabloid papers disappearing ? 65.173.105.241 (talk) 00:32, 13 March 2008 (UTC)

The publishers have the answer to your questions. —Preceding unsigned comment added by 71.100.173.119 (talk) 00:35, 13 March 2008 (UTC)

Why would the CIA be behind getting rid of tabloid papers? The CIA would only care if people believed the tabloids were real. If most people believe they are a joke, mere entertainment, as most do with publications like WWN, then there is no reason to try and get rid of them. Yes, the CIA had efforts to influence the media but they didn't involve shutting down silly publications that nobody sane took seriously anyway. --98.217.18.109 (talk) 02:12, 13 March 2008 (UTC)

I'd love to hear an explanation of the relevance of a 1952 UFO hearing to a 2007 tabloid closing shop. 55 years' worth of prescience is fascinating, I'm sure. — Lomn 03:38, 13 March 2008 (UTC)

I wouldn't. I really wouldn't. FiggyBee (talk) 04:39, 13 March 2008 (UTC)

I blame Tim Cahill hotclaws 16:05, 14 March 2008 (UTC)

Compilation

Is a compilation Illegal?--76.28.67.224 (talk) 01:54, 13 March 2008 (UTC)

Short answer: No. But it is copyrightable. That's all the page is indicating. Caveat: If you mean, "Would it be copyright infringement for me to produce a compilation of copyrighted works for which I had not secured permission or a license to do so?" then the answer is probably "yes, it would be infringement."

Longer example: the titles of all the songs released last week is not copyrightable (it is just unordered information). However if I pick out my own "Special Super Hot Top Clever TEN of the Week" songs, that I, some sort of well-known music expert, have put together using my massive brain and impeccable taste, that final list IS copyrightable. If I make a list of the top ten selling songs, based on simple route collections of data, that's not copyrightable. However, if my collection/assessment method is sufficiently creative, then yes, it can be copyrightable. Make sense? Making selections of things can itself be a form of art, is basically what the law is saying. If I put together a book of "The Very Best of Socrates" I could still copyright the particular arrangement of works, even if the individual pieces of the collection were out of copyright. Obviously this, like most copyright law, has a lot of fundamental tensions in it between what counts as "sufficiently creative" to warrant a copyright. --98.217.18.109 (talk) 02:18, 13 March 2008 (UTC)

Is making a compilation out of copyrighted sources Illegal?--76.28.67.224 (talk) 02:30, 13 March 2008 (UTC)

As 98 said, if you mean, "Would it be copyright infringement for me to produce a compilation of copyrighted works for which I had not secured permission or a license to do so?" then the answer is probably "yes, it would be infringement." FiggyBee (talk) 03:29, 13 March 2008 (UTC)

And by "probably" I don't mean "I don't know" but rather "copyright infringement depends on a lot of legal factors, but assuming we are not talking about really unusual circumstances, a judge would probably rule against you." --98.217.18.109 (talk) 04:42, 13 March 2008 (UTC)

Making the compilation is not a problem. Selling it or otherwise making it available to others is where the various laws would come into play. That said, making the 21st century equivalent of a mix tape for your sweetie is probably not going to be an issue. --LarryMac | Talk 13:52, 13 March 2008 (UTC)

That's true. If it is for your own personal use and viewing then it's not a problem at all, it's definitely fair use. --98.217.18.109 (talk) 03:33, 14 March 2008 (UTC)

“Did you drop the set out of your ring?”

Does anyone have any information regarding the question “Did you drop the set out of your ring?”

I grew up in the midwest hearing my mother ask this when anyone dropped something.

I only have memories of the question being asked. I do not recall specifics about what had been dropped

I cannot locate anything about this question. Specifically, I am wondering if the question may have been posed only when certain things were dropped. Also, I am curious as to the origin of the question.

Anthing light you can shed on this would be helpful.

I have search Google to no avail.

Thanks. Curtisguy (talk) 03:45, 13 March 2008 (UTC)

I've not heard that before. The context tells me that the question is literally asking if you lost the stone (i.e. diamond, sapphire, etc.) out of the setting in your ring. Could it be more a response to someone bending/crouching to pick something up? Steewi (talk) 04:33, 13 March 2008 (UTC)

Could it be a response to someone spending too much time looking for something (as in it's not important unless it's a precious stone)? Julia Rossi (talk) 08:36, 13 March 2008 (UTC)

yea i think is a question as to how long you have been looking for something.....another question with para phrasing would be....you must of lost something really special cuz youve been looking forever. —Preceding unsigned comment added by 124.186.174.24 (talk) 09:59, 13 March 2008 (UTC)

In the U.S. it was a bit of trite humor expressed when someone dropped something like a shovel on a concrete floor. The "set" in a ring would have been a jewel, thus the "humor." Edison (talk) 18:29, 13 March 2008 (UTC)

Cheat code for nokia 5300 & 1100 games!

I wanna know the cheat code for "Snake" game in nokia 1100 & "Tom&Jerry" game of nokia 5300. Try to avoid the links & directly give the codes. If not possible then atleast find it for "Super Mario"(P.C). I want to utilize this opportunity to ask another question. How can we enter a cheat code on a traditional t.v. video game console which will only have the turbo,play,select & four navigation keys. There will be no alphabets or numbers. Plz try to answer all the questions. May be majority will try to answer the last question but won't give the codes. Plz...I desperately need the codes for those ones! Temuzion (talk) 05:23, 13 March 2008 (UTC)

What makes you think that these codes exist? FiggyBee (talk) 06:21, 13 March 2008 (UTC)

I am disinclined to do any research for somebody who makes such rigid demands of a bunch of volunteers. --LarryMac | Talk 13:13, 13 March 2008 (UTC)

There are not always cheat codes. To my knowledge none of the Mario Bros. series ever had cheat codes—at best there were little tricks you could pull off to skip levels or gain unlimited lives and things like that but those aren't "codes" in the sense you mean. --98.217.18.109 (talk) 13:13, 13 March 2008 (UTC)

That's true, not every game has cheat codes, especially not cell phone games which are simple and really don't require them. I don't quite understand your question on console cheats, but most of those are entered via a button sequence as opposed to typing a phrase. Others have a code entry screen for cheats (or a save password that you can manipulate to cheat). 206.252.74.48 (talk) 13:35, 13 March 2008 (UTC)

No! There are cheat codes! If u don't believe in cheating the cell phone games try this one! The only code I know. "787898" It's code for the "Bounce" game of any nokia model. The ball won't be killed or stopped by any obstacle. That made me belive that there are codes. Still if u don't believe in codes checkout [[6]] Temuzion (talk) 03:31, 14 March 2008 (UTC)

For the Mario brothers games on the regular NES system. There is a product called a "Game Genie" that I used to have. You plug the game into the genie and then plug the genie into the box where the game goes. It has a lot of codes for the first mario bros. game including super jump, level skips, and I think it also had infinite lives or at least additional lives. Good luck finding a game genie though!! Maybe you could check at Vintage Stock or somithing. —Preceding unsigned comment added by 66.142.56.205 (talk) 14:21, 15 March 2008 (UTC)

[7] -mattbuck (Talk) 22:39, 15 March 2008 (UTC)

Potatoe

Do they contain Vitamin C and if so how much compared to say an orange? —Preceding unsigned comment added by 193.115.175.247 (talk) 13:32, 13 March 2008 (UTC)

Have you checked the articles on potato and orange? A potato contains 20 mg of vitamin C compared to 45 mg for an orange. That's 33% and 75% daily value, respectively. 206.252.74.48 (talk) 13:37, 13 March 2008 (UTC)

(ec) and there's no e unless you're Dan Quayle. FiggyBee (talk) 13:39, 13 March 2008 (UTC)

There uſed to be an "E"! Mayhaps that is when olde spellings started becomeing archaic. I see it starting to accelerate towards every word having only 1 or 2 letters. Let us cheriſh the Engliſh language of yore. 206.252.74.48 (talk) 13:51, 13 March 2008 (UTC)

Potato is a Taino word. Instead of cheriſhing the Engliſh language one should cherish the Maipurean languages. --Cookatoo.ergo.ZooM (talk) 19:40, 13 March 2008 (UTC)

Well, you learn something new every day, but did they spell it with an "E"? I doubt they used Roman letters when they made the word. Either way, we should cherish all languages, actually. English happens to be my favourite because of its incredible strangeness. 206.252.74.48 (talk) 12:45, 14 March 2008 (UTC)

Human Organ Smuggling.

If someone were running a human organ smuggling ring, would there be anyway they could implant a third a kidney into someone's body so that the kidney will 'stay alive' for 24 hours. It's research for a novel, I'm not running a human organ smuggling ring in real life. —Preceding unsigned comment added by 125.238.176.135 (talk) 14:57, 13 March 2008 (UTC)

Damb, I was really hoping for a second liver, ill give you a tenner for yours —Preceding unsigned comment added by 193.115.175.247 (talk) 15:50, 13 March 2008 (UTC)

I strongly doubt it. The human body wasn't designed isn't equipped to support a third kidney, so there'd be no place to "hook" it up to. Clarityfiend (talk) 16:54, 13 March 2008 (UTC)

You could go "sci-fi" and make up a way to install it. · AndonicO ^Hail! 16:57, 13 March 2008 (UTC)

I suggest you read Kidney transplantation, if you have not already. Transplanting kidneys is not a simple business for your smuggler to do it temporarily. However, if you want that plot point without straining credulity too much (ie. still a lot, but not as ridiculously as with three kidneys), give your "host" only one one kidney himself (perhaps he sold one to get his business going?) Then he keeps slotting smuggled ones into the empty space. You'll have to think of some way to keep all the blood vessels etc all patent while the space is empty. And some hefty drugs to stop him rejecting them (especially as he's likely to carry several types). And some way to help him recover quickly (because presumably you want him to travel)...hmm, looks like Adonico's "sci-fi" technology might be required. Anyway, all the best with your writing. Gwinva (talk) 18:45, 13 March 2008 (UTC)

Random related link: Girl with four working kidneys donates her extra two. —Keenan Pepper 06:07, 14 March 2008 (UTC)

Pass the chianti and fava beans. Clarityfiend (talk) 20:54, 14 March 2008 (UTC)

man made

If one looks at this map http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Image:KaliningradOB.png

I recently met a Polish dude who said he came from near here, what I want to know is, This strip of land, is it man made or natural, and how was it made whether by man or nature, was it tides? or bulldozers? apparently one can get a train along here and see the ocean on both sides at the same time, is this true? what is this place called? is it in Poland? Thanks —Preceding unsigned comment added by 193.115.175.247 (talk) 15:49, 13 March 2008 (UTC)

I don't know for sure, but it looks quite a bit like it was formed by glacial action, like the moraines that compose Long Island, NY. – ClockworkSoul 15:53, 13 March 2008 (UTC)

Also, the map you show is of Kaliningrad, in Russia, about 50 miles from the Polish border. – ClockworkSoul 15:55, 13 March 2008 (UTC)

Okay, i did some reading, and its in lithuanian and russia. So scrap all the previous. HOW WAS IT FORMED. Thanks —Preceding unsigned comment added by 193.115.175.247 (talk) 16:08, 13 March 2008 (UTC)

They are Longshore bars. Cheers Geologyguy (talk) 16:10, 13 March 2008 (UTC)

Google Maps has pretty good satellite images of these things, which make it obvious that they are not man-made. They're a lot bigger than they look on that map. --Sean 17:11, 13 March 2008 (UTC)

I can't open the map, but from the description I think you are referring to the Vistula Spit in the Vistula Lagoon. BrainyBabe (talk) 07:25, 14 March 2008 (UTC)

The two natural landforms on your map are the Curonian Spit (Lithuanian-Russian border) and the Vistula Spit (Polish-Russian border). See Spit (landform), to learn how they form. — Kpalion^(talk) 14:44, 15 March 2008 (UTC)

Decs

Please excuse my ignorance, but Im a Metalhead When people use decs or two vinyl records to make sounds, do they damage the vinyls as my dad said I would when I wanted to wigywigywigy them at age 12. Furthermore, if they wanted a specific sound, would it be possible to record your own vinyl, like a cassette tape, or cd? What machine would one use to do this. Thanks —Preceding unsigned comment added by 193.115.175.247 (talk) 16:29, 13 March 2008 (UTC)

These aren't stupid questions at all, so don't worry about asking them. On your first question, see Scratching. The article says that the action of scratching shouldn't damage the vinyl, since the stylus stays within the groove, but I certainly wouldn't let some hip-hop kid loose on my cherished vinyl collection. Of course, there are other ways of "playing" vinyl records to make sounds, some of which might involve moving the stylus across the grooves, and that would certainly damage the record. Also, people who use records in this way tend to handle them carelessly, e.g. by putting their fingers on the surface, and this is another no-no if you want to keep your records in good condition. But most such artists don't care about keeping the records pristine, since they just want to use them as a sound source. On your second question, no idea. --Richardrj ^{talk email} 16:40, 13 March 2008 (UTC)

{edit conflict - some more answers}

You mean mixing desks - yes the records can be damaged, there are special needles for mixing that don't cause damage (I think). Mixing with a standard record player might cause damage..

Second question - I don't think you mean record onto CD - there are CD decks that mimic the effect of vinyl mixing see scratching

Did you mean a machine to cut (make) your own records? see Gramophone_record#Production also http://eil.com/explore/guide/vinyl_making.asp the machine is called a lathe because it's a type of electrically actuated lathe.

It is possible to get a one off record made, or used to be. I think it's done with acetate records - maybe search for acetate cutting, or acetate lathe.

Hope that helps - ask for more83.100.138.116 (talk) 16:45, 13 March 2008 (UTC)

To clarify, i can record almost anything onto a cassette tape at home, same with a cd. but people are still using vinyls, can they put whatever they want onto them? and how is this done. —Preceding unsigned comment added by 193.115.175.247 (talk) 17:11, 13 March 2008 (UTC)

No you can't really record onto vinyl, not at home anyway. As I mentioned above 'acetate cutters' (so called because the blank disk is made of acetate I'd imagine) do exist - they're like CD-R's - write once only . In general such things are very uncommon - and would mostly exist as owned by a company, or recording studio. They won't be cheap - in times when vinyl was king if you wanted a recording you'd use a reel to reel tape machine most likely.

The links above should get you started if you want to know how to record to vinyl also try searching for "vinyl lathe" eg http://www.positive-feedback.com/Issue12/jsmanley.htm has a picture of such a thing near the bottom of the page.83.100.138.116 (talk) 18:55, 13 March 2008 (UTC)

The article Gramophone record has a section on home recording. It mentions two companies offering equipment "in the high four figures". Maybe they talk about ¥en. --Cookatoo.ergo.ZooM (talk) 19:16, 13 March 2008 (UTC)

crossbow act 1989

what caused this act to be passed, or mor presisly, what was the catalist for making crossbows illegal in the UK thanks —Preceding unsigned comment added by 193.115.175.247 (talk) 16:35, 13 March 2008 (UTC)

We've had this one before. It was a murder by crossbow in London, the details of which I cannot bring to mind. --Tagishsimon (talk) 18:24, 13 March 2008 (UTC)

Automobile Lines

I've noticed this a few years ago (surprised that I didn't before) and I've finally remembered to ask about it here. Every single (passenger) car that I have ever seen has a line on the side. It could be an indented line, a raised line, a plastic insert, aerodynamics, or even just painted on, but there is always a line. It is almost always either one third of the way up the car, or about 3 inches from the bottom. It doesn't matter what kind of car it is - large or small, SUV or compact, economy or luxury - they all have it. My question is "Why?". Is this some kind of universal design priciple that is taboo to break? Have all cars without lines sold poorly because people didn't think they "looked right"? I used to think they were used to hide the bolts or what have you that hold the doors together, but that isn't the case. I don't know why this drives me crazy, I just want to know! Who started this, for what reason, and why is it so universally adhered to despite its extreme level of cliche? 206.252.74.48 (talk) 16:44, 13 March 2008 (UTC)

I've noticed that these lines tend to correspond with the widest part of the car's body (sans side-view mirrors) so I suspect that, in addition to styling, they serve as a sort of bumper. — Lomn 17:05, 13 March 2008 (UTC)

Having a look at Swage suggests that it is also to do with joining multiple pieces of metal together and in the modern day it has just become the 'normal' look and those that don't include a swage-line would perhaps not look right. To be honest I thought they would add strength to the panel. As I understand it a flat panel is not as strong as a panel that has bends/grooves in - at least that was always my understanding for the moulded-shape use for things like plastic milk-containers. ny156uk (talk) 18:20, 13 March 2008 (UTC)

A raised plastic molding down the side reduces the frequency of getting door dings from morons who swing their car doors open wide in parking lots. It also adds a bit of style. Edison (talk) 18:27, 13 March 2008 (UTC)

Part of the reason for that crease is to increase the stiffness of a very thin sheet of metal, You can see the effect on a sheet of paper. First observe that it is very floppy when it is just a sheet of paper. Now make a crease in it and then open it out. The sheet is now a lot stiffer. Another reason is that the crease locally hard works the steel, raising its yield stress in that area, and making it a bit more resistant to denting. A third reason is that the presence of a restriction can control the deep drawing of the sheet in other areas. I think that's enough though! SaundersW (talk) 19:38, 13 March 2008 (UTC)

Yet another part of the reason is that without some sort of "interest" added, all that flat metal would be just too boring (as if modern aero car shapes aren't boring-enough already). The fold also tends to create a skirt that stops splashed-up road dirt from getting any higher on the body.

Atlant (talk) 12:36, 14 March 2008 (UTC)

0.50 calibre's power

I'm not quite sure where i heard this, but is it true that a 0.50 calibre bullet has enough force to tear your arm off and/or cause a brain haemorrhage even if it just passes by the intended target. Is this true and why? —Preceding unsigned comment added by 86.4.182.208 (talk) 20:07, 13 March 2008 (UTC)

The .50 BMG is a very powerful round; despite this, it is unable to do what you have described. However, should the bullet hit either your arm or head, it will generally be able to tear if off, depending on the range that it was fired from. Acceptable (talk) 20:57, 13 March 2008 (UTC)

Also note the distinction between caliber and cartridge (firearms). A .50 caliber bullet is just a bullet. Bullets of that diameter are used with relatively non-powerful catridges as well as the monstrous .50 BMG. The cartridge is what gives it whatever power it has. Friday (talk) 21:45, 13 March 2008 (UTC)

Is there any truth at all to the idea that a round from a high-powered rifle can hurt you with just the air-pressure as it passes? My uncles were soldiers in a civil war and said that they had heard of it happening, but I take things they say with a grain of salt. --Sean 22:18, 13 March 2008 (UTC)

The .50 BMG remains supersonic for a very long distance from the gun, and you can hear the sonic boom as it goes by. Despite this, it's not generating a very large shockwave -- nothing like the window-breaking shockwaves that airplanes can produce. If the bullet is passing close enough for the shockwave to hurt you, the injuries from the resulting collision of bullet and skin will mask them.

On the other hand, if you're standing close to the business end of a high-powered rifle, the muzzle blast of the propelling charge will certainly injure you. --Carnildo (talk) 22:55, 13 March 2008 (UTC)

I have some Popular Science magazines from the 1950s and they described the testing of large rounds on deer in which they shot the bullet so it passed one inch above the animal's back and the animal died anyway. Since the rest of the magazine had pretty damn good predictions of future technology, I tend to trust it, I'll have to dig it up and see that I read it correctly. 206.252.74.48 (talk) 12:40, 14 March 2008 (UTC)

Carnildo, what makes you believe that? You can feel the blast, sure, but injury? Unless you're talking powder burns or something? Friday (talk) 21:02, 14 March 2008 (UTC)

sick of masturbation..........

I am 22.I wanna give up the habit of masturbation.......but whenever I try,after sometime again I end up doing that........what should I do?????? —Preceding unsigned comment added by 117.99.4.69 (talk) 21:01, 13 March 2008 (UTC)

Well giving up something you enjoy is generally pretty difficult (this is assuming you enjoy it). Whilst i don't quite see why you'd wish to give it up entirely certainly try approaching it from a similar vein to giving up other things: Look for your 'trigger' points - is it a 'before bed' thing, maybe you could alter your routine? Look for anything that has a 'relationship' with it - sounds daft in this circumstance but stress & smoking are often 'linked' in the smoker's eyes so putting yourself in situations whereby temptation would be greatest will test your limits more. Other than this maybe consider alternatives (though beyond the obvious, i'm fresh out of ideas). Good luck - i guess. ny156uk (talk) 21:39, 13 March 2008 (UTC)

If the reason you want to give it up is that you think somehow you "shouldn't" be doing it, than maybe a rethink is in order. It's perfectly healthy, natural and normal. Happily married and partnered people do it all the time (not to be interpreted as "all night long"), and if you don't have a partner, it's the next best thing. -- JackofOz (talk) 21:49, 13 March 2008 (UTC)

If your concern is primarily religious you might consider that there are many interpretations of sexuality within every religion. For example some liberal Christians conclude that sexual pleasure and masturbation are a gift of God.[8] --S.dedalus (talk) 22:01, 13 March 2008 (UTC)

You haven't said if you are male or female, though most folks will assume male. It might help if you have a serious concern, to explain more why its a concern, what issues there are, and what your vi3ews are on things, rather than just "wanna give it up" which for a deep-seated psychological and physiological drive like sexuality, will be not enough information for anyone to find helpful sources of advice. FT2 ^{(Talk | email)} 22:10, 13 March 2008 (UTC)

Alternatives to masturbation have been known (and practised) for some time. If this option can not be realised, then you are either stuck with masturbation or abstinence (and nocturnal emissions).

Masturbating at your age is totally normal, indeed, I assume it to be normal at any age.

If, on the other hand (if you pardon this ambiguous ambidextrosity) you are a student of R.C. theology I suggest you reconsider your career and calling. Indeed, as FT2 says above, it would help if you were to explain the reasons for your concern. --Cookatoo.ergo.ZooM (talk) 22:33, 13 March 2008 (UTC)

Why has no one said "get a girlfriend". Otherwise I am afraid to report it's practically impossible to stop, it's a bodily function - just like sweating or pissing... Plus it's actually healthy to do so - if I really need to pick my nose I'll do it. Politely.87.102.83.204 (talk) 13:25, 14 March 2008 (UTC)

It's generally a good idea to mature socially / emotionally / spiritually before 'getting a girlfriend'. And how many 22-year-olds are fully mature?

As to the original question, I can tell you with confidence that you will not give it up, so you'll have to change your masturbatory habits to be more agreeable. Vranak (talk) 00:32, 16 March 2008 (UTC)

The concept of polite masturbation makes me giggle. HYENASTE 19:03, 14 March 2008 (UTC)

He he.

• "What are you thinking of doing today?"
• "Well, I thought I'd re-read chapters 19 through 53 of War and Peace, go to a movie marathon with all 7 episodes of Rocky, reinvent the wheel, discover the secret of happiness, and then to finish off with an hour or two of polite masturbation, before spilling my guts to Dear Diary".  :)  :) -- JackofOz (talk) 23:17, 15 March 2008 (UTC)

Rocks in a cage

What is this thing? And what is the point of it? [9] I saw it while I was in the U.S. state of Arizona last week. There were many of them and all of them seemed to be at the corner of a barbed wire fence. I'm guessing it's just a way of holding the corner of the fence but I don't understand why someone would go through all the effort to cage these rocks for the purpose. Thanks, Dismas|^(talk) 23:04, 13 March 2008 (UTC)

The ballast of the rocks resists the lateral load of the wire. Looks like a good solution to the problem of avoiding drilling post-holes and transporting fence posts. Ingenious. --Tagishsimon (talk) 23:10, 13 March 2008 (UTC)

It's an interesting use of a gabion.--ShelfSkewed Talk 23:36, 13 March 2008 (UTC)

This is, indeed, an ingenious solution to anchoring the corner posts of a fence.

If you assume that:

• the soil is rock hard or
• the soil is loose gravelly stuff and
• there are lots of rocks handy

What more efficient / economic / ecological / and yes, highly aesthetic method can you think of ? --Cookatoo.ergo.ZooM (talk) 23:49, 13 March 2008 (UTC)

Look like a lazy ranch hand trick. :) --S.dedalus (talk) 00:27, 14 March 2008 (UTC)

Nope, a lazy guy would build a rock jack. It has a greater moment to oppose the tension in the wire, and so requires fewer rocks.—eric 01:34, 14 March 2008 (UTC)

Average call center wages.

What is the average hourly wage for a person working in an inbound tech oriented call center?12.25.104.8 (talk) 23:23, 13 March 2008 (UTC)

I don't know about average, but I get a little over $10/hour as a network technician in a call center. Useight (talk) 23:40, 13 March 2008 (UTC)

What country? BrainyBabe (talk) 07:27, 14 March 2008 (UTC)

This would be in the USA, specifically in the South, (e.g Texas).12.25.104.8 (talk) 15:04, 14 March 2008 (UTC)

I'm in Utah, which uses the US minimum wage as its minimum wage. Useight (talk) 15:24, 14 March 2008 (UTC)

Laws...

I have a friend in VA who I think had a pretty bad experience at school, and he wants to know if they have any statutes or laws saying that a student has the right to not give any information to a teacher. I know it sounds like it's for me, but it's really not. I just wanted to help him out, so any §'s you know of? Like I think he doesn't want to talk to his math teacher, or answer any questions, if that's more specificYamakiri ^T_C § 03-13-2008 • 23:28:53

Sounds like the 5th amendment. Useight (talk) 23:38, 13 March 2008 (UTC)

True, but can a school kid plead that in class (sorry just had to) ? I'll look into it still, thanks! Yamakiri ^T_C § 03-14-2008 • 00:42:34

I am not a lawyer, and you should ask a lawyer for legal advice. However, it's doubtful that the 5th Amendment applies to something as informal as a discussion with a teacher. However, if the teacher sends you to the principal's office, and the principal suspends you, you're then entitled to a hearing with some legal norms and the right to due process. You can then challenge the suspension in court. However, the burden of proof would be on you that the suspension is unreasonable. -- Mwalcoff (talk) 03:00, 14 March 2008 (UTC)

No, the 5th Amendment doesn't apply. It only applies in specific legal circumstances involving self-incrimination. For real crimes. Not "I didn't do my homework," or "I don't want to display my utter inability to do long-division on the chalkboard." (Note: I am lousy at math, personally, and do not judge the inability to do long-division on command to be a real failing.) --98.217.18.109 (talk) 03:21, 14 March 2008 (UTC)

Assuming you are talking about normal types of information, there isn't anything your sad little friend can do, except maybe try and put it in perspective and push on through (only a few months till summer!). If you are talking about information of a very sensitive nature, such as in relation to his sexuality or religious preferences, these are sometimes regulated, though you'd have to check to see if that applied in this particular situation. In general though, no, there's no magic law you can cite to say, "Sorry teach, but I ain't answering that one" and not get in trouble for insubordination. --98.217.18.109 (talk) 03:21, 14 March 2008 (UTC)

Sad little friend is a bit harsh. 81.96.160.6 (talk) 12:42, 14 March 2008 (UTC)

Dad's Will

Dad died last year. Mom 20 years ago. His will states that his 3 children split everything equally except that one of his children died 10 years ago. The will does not state his children and their heirs Just his children. He also made it clear that he wanted the oldest child and the 2nd oldest child to take care of everything. The oldest is the one that is living and has been made the executor of the will. The son who has died has 3 children, are they entitled to 1/3 of the estate or is it up to the executor to decide who gets what? —Preceding unsigned comment added by 209.247.22.9 (talk) 23:48, 13 March 2008 (UTC)

Speak to a lawyer is about the only legal advice that we can give here. Dismas|^(talk) 00:21, 14 March 2008 (UTC)

The answer to your question is likely to vary depending upon the laws that apply where you live. Only a local lawyer would know which laws apply. Marco polo (talk) 01:50, 14 March 2008 (UTC)

Yeah, speaking with a lawyer would be the best thing to do. Useight (talk) 02:05, 14 March 2008 (UTC)

Hope this doesn't count as legal advice but it seems odd that the will wasn't re-written considering the nine years after the death of the son. 81.96.160.6 (talk) 20:51, 14 March 2008 (UTC)

Making a will at all is quite a challenge for many people. It forces them to accept they're going to die some day, which ain't easy in our hearts even though we all know it in our heads. Having done it once, it might seem a relatively simple task to then amend it down the track as family circumstances change. But there have been many cases where a revised will was drafted and the person never quite got around to signing it - e.g. Peter Brock. His article doesn't give the details, but apparently his most recent will named his 3rd partner Bev Brock (not his wife, despite the name) his principal beneficiary. After splitting from Bev and moving onto his 4th partner Julie Bamford, he had a new will drawn up to make Julie the beneficiary, but put it in a drawer and never quite signed it before his untimely death. The matter had to go to court for a resolution as to his intentions. -- JackofOz (talk) 23:45, 14 March 2008 (UTC)

It will depend upon your local intestacy laws, and as the others have said, you should consult a lawyer. I don't know where you are, but here in England & Wales the share of the dead son would be split equally between his three children; the job of the executor is to administer the estate, to pay the dead persons' debts from the estate, collect any money owing to the dead person, arrange for the selling off of property, etc. - the executor doesn't have the power to vary the distribution of the estate, which is governed by well understood rules. When someone dies without any descendants or a will, things can sometimes get complicated with family trees being traced for several generations in an attempt to find beneficiaries as the estate is split up - a couple of years ago I inherited something ridiculous like 1/2 of 1/9th of 1/3rd of the estate of a cousin of my father's who I'd never heard of; still, it was about £1250/$2500 which was a nice windfall just before Christmas! -- Arwel (talk) 21:34, 16 March 2008 (UTC)

March 14

racism confusion

i have always heard of racism as being a bad thing, but i was always raised that it was just showing pride for your ethnic background. so does anyone know exactly the meaning? i've been to different dictionary sites but all say different information. i'll admit, i'm proud of the color of my skin, does that make me racist? even though i would never judge another by their skin. can anyone give me any ideas? —Preceding unsigned comment added by 71.141.0.179 (talk) 03:22, 14 March 2008 (UTC)

Pride in one's ethnic background is not racism. Racism is when you turn that pride into a reason to hate or hold prejudice against people who are not of your ethnic background. The problem with the KKK isn't that they like being white, it's that they hate everyone who isn't. Note that there are some exceptions, the term Black pride refers to something generally seen as positive, while White pride is usually a euphemism for racial hatred. The reasons that some terms mean one thing in one context and something else in another are historical, based on who used them and how. Say It Loud - I'm Black and I'm Proud is seen as a positive form of racial pride, whereas this is thinly-veiled (if that) support for Nazism. In this case, one is a statement by people without much power about pulling themselves up, the other is a statement by people who have historically had great power about pushing others down. Make sense? --98.217.18.109 (talk) 03:24, 14 March 2008 (UTC)

So it's ok to be proud of your skin colour as long as you are black? (sarcasm) To be honest - No - it doesn't make sense - it seems like that would only 'self-perpetuate' any problems.87.102.83.204 (talk) 10:35, 14 March 2008 (UTC)

87.102.83.204 (talk) 09:47, 14 March 2008 (UTC)

Also, race and ethnicity are not the same thing. It seems odd to me to be proud of one's skin color, unless it is a particularly beautiful hue perhaps. Pride in one's ethnicity, culture, heritage, etc, seems better (though the word "pride" makes me wary -- but maybe I'm too humble!). Sometimes, I think, things like skin color "stands for" ethnicity, culture, heritage, etc. The danger of slipping into racism comes, I think, when one assumes a person of a certain skin color is of a certain ethnicity. Pfly (talk) 08:00, 14 March 2008 (UTC)

With white pride as opposed to black pride, the difference isn't that it's racist to be proud of being white, it's that people who goaround mentioning how proud they are of being white normally have a racist motive. Racist movements took white pride as slogan because it makes it seem like they are no different (apart from skin colour) from black pride groups. What both want is very different. The white pride guys like the KKK and the NF are usually white seperatists too. There's little point being publicly proud of your whiteness as it is unlikely to ever be a hindrance, whereas your African or Mexican roots easily can. Being publicly proud of a natural advantage is just poor form. Like laughing at people who wear glasses. 81.96.160.6 (talk) 11:09, 14 March 2008 (UTC)

Yes I mostly agree - but most white people don't get the advantage that 'middle class white poeple' get. Most white people in the UK (and I'd imagine in the USA) have a little better start in life that the average korean, mexican, black person etc. In otherwords most white people are 'trash' (as it turns out including me) and don't like being told about or benefit from 'positive discimination' by the ruling classes (ie middle class liberals) etc. Just a little rant. Not directed at you personally.87.102.83.204 (talk) 15:44, 14 March 2008 (UTC)

"Racist" is what the subjugated ethnic group calls the dominant one. It's no wonder you can't come up with a definition anywhere; the word is meaningless outside the context of inter-ethnic struggle. Everybody is racist if it means "prefers to be with people who look and smell like they do", so why even mention it except as a smear? --Milkbreath (talk) 11:25, 14 March 2008 (UTC)

Also, studies in Britain have shown that the multiculturalism policy that has been pursued, encouraging things like pride in ancestry and emphasising differences, has actually lead to increased racism on all sides as it developes an us vs them mentality, and encourages segreation of communities, leading to situations like that in Bradford where the town is basically half-white half-Asian, but with two distinctly seperate halves rather than one whole. So it's a viable argument that caring about your ancestry whether Anglo-Saxon or African will lead to divisions, and it makes much more sense to focus on an individuals acheivements and just be interested in their origins. 81.96.160.6 (talk) 11:35, 14 March 2008 (UTC)

How can you be proud of the colour of your skin? --Taraborn (talk) 15:59, 14 March 2008 (UTC)

Did you ever take a good look at Traci Bingham? --Milkbreath (talk) 17:26, 14 March 2008 (UTC)

Maybe if you have never done anything else of note or to be proud of? Or as an obvious analogy - someone who was teased/bullied at school for being ginger might in later life be proud of being a red-top despite it all, or simply because of the need for a sense of self worth. 87.102.83.204 (talk) 17:20, 14 March 2008 (UTC)

It matters somewhat where you are. I have just found that the IP address of the person who asked the original question is located in San Francisco, California. If this person, by chance, attends the San Francisco Public Schools, then he or she experiences life as a member of a minority group, since whites are outnumbered in San Francisco schools by (East) Asians, Latinos, and Blacks/African Americans. Even in the general population of San Francisco, whites are a minority outnumbered by Asians (who are a larger minority in a city with no majority group). San Francisco until recently had a black mayor. It is true that whites probably have a higher average net worth than any of the other groups and occupy a majority of the leadership positions in the private sector of San Francisco, but the experience of the questioner, if he/she is a public school student, may not be one of privilege. So it may be difficult for this person to see a problem with "white pride" particularly if he she is surrounded and even outnumbered by people proclaiming "Asian pride", "black pride", or whatever. In this context, I think that ethnic pride in general starts to be divisive and counterproductive. It really should not be encouraged by school authorities, though it probably is encouraged or even sponsored out of partisanship and/or a sense of political correctness. But in this context, it probably isn't fair to exclude the innocent and unknowing white student from the game, although the implications of "white pride" are disturbing for those of us who know the broader historical and cultural context. Marco polo (talk) 18:48, 14 March 2008 (UTC)

Fair enough, but shouldn't we respect or at least assume a right to anonymity here. I really don't think we should be tracing IP's at all. I will leave a short message and question on the discussion page should you wish to discuss this.87.102.21.171 (talk) 11:06, 15 March 2008 (UTC)

If you want anonymity, you need a log-in name. It's much less personally identifying than an IP address. - Nunh-huh 11:49, 15 March 2008 (UTC)

That's all very well but I took action on the part of the above to trace the IP address - should they really be doing that, we are after all here to help. It's not some sort of free for all. Responsibility.87.102.21.171 (talk) 12:21, 15 March 2008 (UTC)

Racism comes in many forms, often unintentionally. An announcement of a forthcoming concert by "the famous black Uruguayan saxophonist Esteban Spinetti" is racist. What harm the description "black" might do in this particular case is a moot point, but that's not the point. Had Esteban been white, it wouldn't have been "the famous white Uruguayan saxophonist Esteban Spinetti". You see similar things when someone comes in for criticism and they're not from the predominant group in the society. Rather than saying "That bastard ripped me off", it sometimes becomes "That Vietnamese (Mexican/Kazakhstani/whatever) bastard ripped me off", when (assuming you're in the USA) if the bastard had been a white guy named George Smith, it would not have been "That white American bastard ripped me off". The fact that the bastard happened to be Vietnamese or whatever is utterly irrelevant to him having done whatever he's accused of, so why introduce it? Why, because any chance to identify a person who's not of your "race", particularly if it's a chance to associate that race with undesirable activity, is fair game to racists. -- JackofOz (talk) 02:13, 16 March 2008 (UTC)

Apple vs Donut

Does one's body distinguish between the sugar in fruits, such as apples, (frucose, presumably) and the sugar in unhealthy donuts? i.e. will both contribute equally to weight gain? Acceptable (talk) 04:20, 14 March 2008 (UTC)

They're not exactly equivalent. See Glycemic index. Also, your body distiguishes between the concentrations of sugar, in that it's easier to eat a thousand calories of donuts (3 glazed donuts) than a thousand calories of apples (a dozen apples). —Keenan Pepper 05:50, 14 March 2008 (UTC)

Fructose and sucrose are not the same thing. BrainyBabe (talk) 07:29, 14 March 2008 (UTC)

Besides the differences between fructose and sucrose, as I understand it, the "unhealthiness" of donuts is related to (1) "empty calories" and (2) saturated fats. —Steve Summit (talk) 13:17, 15 March 2008 (UTC)

Donuts have sugar, but they also have lots of fat, which has 9 calories per gram compared to 4 calories per gram of carbohydrate or protein. The digestive system converts the sugar or other carbohydrate into Glucose in the bloodstream so that cells can use it as fuel. Edison (talk) 19:47, 15 March 2008 (UTC)

Actius

Does anybody know whether the Actius line of notebooks has been discontinued by Sharp, or do they still sell it? Thanks! :-) 125.21.165.158 (talk) 04:35, 14 March 2008 (UTC)

Try the Computing desk. Zain Ebrahim (talk) 11:38, 14 March 2008 (UTC)

The Olden Days

How did people in the olden days obtain heat and light in their homes before electricity was available? 220.233.83.26 (talk) 09:18, 14 March 2008 (UTC)

It depends very much where and when you mean, but gas was available in many towns before electricity, and bottled gas is still used for both purposes in caravans and isolated houses. Before that, candles were very common, and heating was often by coal or wood fire.--Shantavira|^{feed me} 10:02, 14 March 2008 (UTC)

The fireplace was a fixture and country people tended to rise with the sun and make the most of daylight. Travellers had the campfire, festivals the bonfire. Lanterns and hurricane lamps were the go. Gas lamps lit streets in England in the 1800s. Even more primitively there were torches with a rod or stick topped off with a rag soaked in something flammable and set in a wall sconce or bracket. The rush light, oil lamps, candles and the diya cast light in the dark even wa-ay back in time. Julia Rossi (talk) 12:01, 14 March 2008 (UTC)

Even the poorest would have had some way to make a fire, which was used for cooking as well as heat. However, the fire would die down at night, and it could be quite cold even indoors. There was less distinction before modern times between outdoor and indoor clothing. People tended to wear their coats or jackets indoors and to use heavy blankets or hides in bed. As for lighting, most people relied largely on daylight and on limited firelight and moonlight at night. Candles, torches, and other artificial lighting relied on relatively expensive oils that ordinary people could not afford to burn except perhaps on special occasions. Of course the rich made more regular use of candelight and torches. Marco polo (talk) 18:22, 14 March 2008 (UTC)

The olden days? When and where? Inuit built beautifully insulated winter homes in which they could go around semi-naked. Medieval European peasants built their living quarters over the cow byre, to benefit from mammalian heat. Some people (some Ancient Greeks? reference not to hand) oriented their homes to the winter sun and used thermal mass and braziers. Many people in many places have lived in caves, but not most of our Neolithic ancestors misnamed "cavemen". One of our main needs for light is to read, but of course not all that long ago almost no one could read. Detailed sight-work, such as sewing, was done in daylight; rough knitting could be done by firelight and by touch. BrainyBabe (talk) 23:18, 14 March 2008 (UTC)

One of the things that struck me looking down at Paris from the Eiffel Tower -- though I'm sure the same can be seen in other places as well -- was the number of large, old buildings that looked sort of like Swiss cheese from above, due to the large number of vertical shafts, which are there so that interior rooms can have windows, too. —Steve Summit (talk) 23:37, 14 March 2008 (UTC)

In rural areas in my grandparents' youth, a fireplace furnish heat with wood as fuel. A kerosene lamp furnished light Edison (talk) 19:45, 15 March 2008 (UTC)

Well in my youth in the 1960s and 70s we still used coal fires to keep the living room warm (and also keep the oven hot, too), and we still used the old paraffin mantle lamps and candles during power cuts. Mind you, in winter we could only keep one room in the house decently warm, so we had lots of heavy blankets on our beds, and more blankets over the windows in the midwinter to keep the draughts out (though we did get beautiful frost ferns on the inside of the glass, which you don't get with this new-fangled double glazing!). -- Arwel (talk) 21:47, 16 March 2008 (UTC)

More about skin colour

From what was said earlier about skin colour and ethnicity, why are black people called black people, but Chinese/Korean/Japanese people aren't called yellow? At least not in a non-racist context very often. Is it likely that in say 50 years, Arabs and East Asians will be called yellow people? What are the factors that make this the case or not? 81.96.160.6 (talk) 11:18, 14 March 2008 (UTC)

In Norway, you generally wouldn't call a person "black". (and the word "race" also carries negative connotations). Just to remind you that these things tend to vary between countries. (It's still a good question! :-) ) Jørgen (talk) 18:21, 14 March 2008 (UTC)

The answer to your question has to do with history. Historically, the term yellow had connotations of "cowardly" and was used derogatorily toward East Asians, at least in the United States. So most people of East Asian descent object to being called "yellow". On the other hand, at least in the United States, people of sub-Saharan African descent were for many years labeled with the patently offensive term "nigger", which is so offensive that I almost dare not write it. (I think that it is clear that I don't condone it.) More polite, but somewhat condescending and euphemistic-sounding labels, were colored or Negro. The term African was also used, mostly before the 20th century, but people of African descent objected to being called "African" since few of them had set foot in Africa and because the term tended to suggest that they were exotic or savage. So, during the 1950s, people of African descent began to call themselves "black" and to ask that others use that label as a positive affirmation of their color. (Since then, some blacks in the United States have expressed a preference for the label African-American, and that label has gained currency among non-blacks as well.) Marco polo (talk) 19:00, 14 March 2008 (UTC)

About the African-American thing. It seems unlikely that that would spread too much. AFAIK, few other countries use a similar name for other ethnicities. In Britain, you're black or white or (insert country name here). But it seems that in a few generations when people don't really feel Chinese or Iraqi or Nigerian, they feel American or British or French, so if we're using racial identity we'll probably have to refer to skin colour. Maybe in America the -American thing will be the norm, but I've always pictured that one getting complained about as it could easily be taken as being qualifiedly American rather than unqualifiedly so. Will WASPs become Anglo-Saxon-Americans? 81.96.160.6 (talk) 20:46, 14 March 2008 (UTC)

I have a feeling that African-American will fade from use. "Black" is much more commonly used, at least in speech, in the United States. I think that African-American is somewhat the pet term of people of a certain political perspective from a certain generation. But we shall see. Also, these groups are less and less endogamous in the United States. Already, there are more and more young Americans of mixed or indeterminate race. I think that this trend is certain to continue in the future to the point (after my lifetime) where the current labels are meaningless. Marco polo (talk) 21:16, 14 March 2008 (UTC)

Just a thought, which may be way off the mark. The people who identify others by their skin colours, and make judgments about them accordingly, tend to see the world in black-and-white terms. For example, a "white" racist might feel that all "white" people are inherently good unless proven otherwise, but all "black" people are inherently bad unless proven otherwise. "Yellow", "red" or other coloured-people don't fit into this paradigm, so the racists might be relatively indifferent to them and see them, metaphorically speaking, as just so many shades of "grey". I know there are many exceptions to the indifference hypothesis. -- JackofOz (talk) 23:24, 14 March 2008 (UTC)

If you want some historical context as to when, in the US, race became a strictly "black and white" issue, two pages that might be useful: Madison Grant and his successor Lothrop Stoddard. --98.217.18.109 (talk) 16:54, 15 March 2008 (UTC)

Wikitravel

Hi, I may be being a bit stupid, but at my age that's alright I guess, but how do I get to Wikitravel from the Wiki Main Page? I used Wikitravel before travelling to Nice in France a couple of weeks ago, and just want to say how very grateful I am, and was, for the oodles of very useful and current information I found on that site. Just a couple of comments pertinent to Nice that were not mentioned though; firstly, always carry plenty of small change for use on the trams and buses and public lavatories; and secondly, watch where you tread - seriously - I have never been anywhere else in the world so imminently in peril of sinking beneath the waves under it's own weight in Dogshit, it doesn't matter where you look, from the steps of the Cathedral to the hundreds of excellent pavement cafes - and the locals all acknowledge the problem when it is brought to their attention, but everyone shrugs their indifference to it. Not nice if your wife just happens to be wearing a new pair of open-toe sandals from Prada. Oh, and thanks again - we really enjoyed Nice - the Dogshit apart. 81.145.242.24 (talk) 11:21, 14 March 2008 (UTC)

Wikitravel isn't affiliated with Wikipedia or the Wikimedia Foundation and therefore won't be listed as a sister project on the Main Page. It uses the same software and general ethos as Wikipedia, but with different licensing and contribution guidelines - as do hundreds of other wiki's of varying subjects. Nanonic (talk) 11:28, 14 March 2008 (UTC)

Am I to assume that the dogshit in Nice has become so integrated and notable in the city's culture as to have earned a capital 'D' ;-)) Richard Avery (talk) 15:05, 14 March 2008 (UTC)

Anyway, just go to the Wikitravel article and click on the link from there. Same as you might get to Wiktionary or Wikiquote or whatever.--Shantavira|^{feed me} 18:11, 14 March 2008 (UTC)

pellet gun accuracy

I was wondering if anyone could tell me the effective and maximum ranges of the Beeman SS1000S-AW Combo air rifle after it has been broken in. Or alternatively, where I can find this information. I realize I could gather my own empirical evidence, but I haven't broken it in yet, and I was just wondering what to expect after I fire another 1,500 rounds or so. Thanks in advance. --AtTheAbyss (talk) 12:10, 14 March 2008 (UTC)

This page gives some specifications,

• Loudness: 3-Medium
• Weight: 8.50 lbs
• Overall Length: 45.50"
• Capacity: 1 round(s)
• Barrel: Rifled
• Front Sight: Fiber Optic
• Rear Sight: Adjustable for windage and elevation
• Scopeable: 11mm dovetail
• Buttplate: Ventilated rubber
• Suggested for: Plinking/Fun
• Action: Break barrel
• Powerplant: Spring-piston
• Safety: Automatic
• Repeater: No/Single-shot

and this page gives the max velocity as 1000 ft/sec. I was unable to find any information on the effective and maximum ranges though. Think outside the box 16:18, 14 March 2008 (UTC)

UNITED RAILWAYS, BALTIMORE, MD - RECORDS

After finding this railway in Wikipedia's initial response, I would like to find any extant records for this company. In particular, as the family genealogist, I am looking for employment records for my gr-grandfather from 1900 to 1914.

Are these records available for research? If so, would you know where I can find them?

Thank you for any help. —Preceding unsigned comment added by Hdawson1206 (talk • contribs) 16:52, 14 March 2008 (UTC)

The United Railways and Electric Company is now part of the Maryland Transit Administration (MTA). Whether they have kept employment records from 100 years ago, I don't know. Here is their contact page. I would try the "media relations/communications" number or the "directory assistance" number and ask about archives for the Baltimore Transit Company, which was the successor to United Railways and the forerunner of the MTA. Marco polo (talk) 18:13, 14 March 2008 (UTC)

Cincinnati, "The Queen City"

Why is Cincinnati called, "The Queen City?" Have many Miss America's come from Cincinnati? Does the nickname have anything to do with gay people? Is it shaped like a crown if one uses her imagination? Thank you. —Preceding unsigned comment added by Eleanor1721 (talk • contribs) 17:21, 14 March 2008 (UTC)

Queen City states that "Cincinnati, Ohio, after experiencing rapid growth in the early 19th century, and becoming one of the first major inland cities in the U.S., was dubbed the "Queen of the West", or the Queen City." jeffjon (talk) 17:23, 14 March 2008 (UTC)

Here (http://library.cincymuseum.org/cinfaq7menu.htm#queencity) has the answer you are looking for ny156uk (talk) 17:24, 14 March 2008 (UTC)

Democratic Republic of Congo Diet

Can you tell me what tea is drunk by people in Democratic Republic of Congo?Bunnypup (talk) 18:05, 14 March 2008 (UTC)

Zoo

What is the largest zoo in Canada?Jwking (talk) 19:46, 14 March 2008 (UTC)

A Google search for "Template:Websearch" (hint, hint) says it's the Toronto Zoo. --Sean 19:49, 14 March 2008 (UTC)

I thought it was the Canadian Parliament. Clarityfiend (talk) 21:27, 15 March 2008 (UTC)

Epilepsy

how often would someone have to have seizures to be considered epileptic? —Preceding unsigned comment added by 76.101.7.240 (talk) 19:33, 14 March 2008 (UTC)

According to our article "Non-epileptic seizure", epilepsy is not diagnosed by frequency of seizures but by "abnormal, rhythmic discharges of cortical neurons." Epilepsy (see) is not a single disorder but rather "a group of syndromes with vastly divergent symptoms but all involving episodic abnormal electrical activity in the brain." Also, a "diagnosis of epilepsy requires that the seizures be unprovoked". Non-epileptic seizures are caused by external factors (not brought on by "triggers" as in epilepsy) and would only recur if the external cause was applied again. Non-epileptic seizures therefore do not have a "frequency" to them at all. --Milkbreath (talk) 19:49, 14 March 2008 (UTC)

(Removed dangerous mocking nonsense) --Milkbreath (talk) 13:54, 15 March 2008 (UTC)

Karyotype Doctor

What kind of doctor would generally administer a Karyotype test to examine your chromosomes for chromosomal defects in a typical North American hospital? Thanks. Acceptable (talk) 20:24, 14 March 2008 (UTC)

A geneticist, maybe ? Gandalf61 (talk) 13:42, 15 March 2008 (UTC)

More specifically, a cytogeneticist. Rockpocket 19:43, 15 March 2008 (UTC)

Name my wikipedia account

I've just realised I dislike being anonymous, and because I suck at naming internet accounts, I want to hear your suggestions. A vaguely amusing play-on-words would be nice, but all suggestions will be appreciated, and one will be granted IMMORTALITY as my wikihandle. LET THE GAMES BEGIN! 81.96.160.6 (talk) 20:48, 14 March 2008 (UTC)

Are you male or female? bibliomaniac15 20:59, 14 March 2008 (UTC)

You don't want to just go by your actual name? 81.187.153.189 (talk) 21:18, 14 March 2008 (UTC)

One problem is that Wikipedia ranks very highly in Google searches. If you have a particularly unusual name *cough* then it can make tracing you very easy. Sure, there are worse things to be seen associated with than Wikipedia (from the point of view of colleges, employers, and so on), but there are valid privacy concerns. Angus Lepper^{(T, C, D)} 21:28, 14 March 2008 (UTC)

I'm male, and I don't really want to go by my actual name just because it bores me a little. i just thought this might be a bit more fun. Not too bothered about the google thing really, I'm not going to have a real userpage like facebook or anything 81.96.160.6 (talk) 21:53, 14 March 2008 (UTC)

Publicgirluk. HYENASTE 22:14, 14 March 2008 (UTC)

SmexBlah haha, i saw that on some nasa sticker in my american history room. БοņёŠɓɤĭĠ₳₯є 22:20, 14 March 2008 (UTC)

You have my permission to adopt one of these. But if you choose one of my special favourites, I'll kill you. You have been warned.  :) -- JackofOz (talk) 22:59, 14 March 2008 (UTC)

he is not kiding either...Perry-mankster (talk) 23:13, 14 March 2008 (UTC)

User:Random IP Address? -- Flyguy649 ^talk 23:56, 14 March 2008 (UTC)

Hey, I just picked out a name too! Oh...sorry, that's one less, isn't it? How about this? T-T-Teeth _(t-t-talk) 00:12, 15 March 2008 (UTC)

Immortality-Lite. Clarityfiend (talk) 01:11, 15 March 2008 (UTC)

Unacceptable? Acceptable (talk) 01:26, 15 March 2008 (UTC)

Is LethegamesBgin too long? Then there's Playonwords, Grantedimmortality, Bitmofun, Not2bothered and variations. Who said your ideas suck! Julia Rossi (talk) 01:59, 15 March 2008 (UTC)

Any martini name could be cool, or a weapon such as Bouncingbomb. Geez, why is mine so plain? Julia Rossi (talk) 02:06, 15 March 2008 (UTC)

If I were you I'd go with Remora Fedora. Pfly (talk) 06:27, 15 March 2008 (UTC)

How about User:Four Tildes. I've been meaning to take this myself but never got round to it.--Shantavira|^{feed me} 09:18, 15 March 2008 (UTC)

User:Eighty-One Dot Ninety-Six? --98.217.18.109 (talk) 14:43, 15 March 2008 (UTC)

Two recommendations: )Do not choose a name which people may argue shows bias toward or against anything, or people will question your objectivity when you edit articles related to the username. 2)Choose a novel spelling or humorous misspelling, so that if you Google you will be able to find your own contributions. Edison (talk) 19:42, 15 March 2008 (UTC)

User Manual for my Toyota

I have a Toyota Premio 2002. The car is supposed to be manufactured for Japan only, so the user manual that it comes with is only in Japanese. Could anyone tell me where, if at all, I can find a user manual for this vehicle in english? Ive been looking for it over the internet for quiet sometime now. But i guess my online searching abilities are limited. Reference: Toyota Premio 2002, 1.5 F If someone could help, it would be appreciated. I still havent figured out half the functions of my vehicle :) Thanks —Preceding unsigned comment added by 216.9.243.111 (talk) 21:18, 14 March 2008 (UTC)

On Google I found others in the same situation, looking for that manual in English. Have you tried your Toyota dealer? See what they have to say. Julia Rossi (talk) 23:50, 14 March 2008 (UTC)

great discovery

i need help with a riddle,he discovered it but he hates it.who is he and what is it? —Preceding unsigned comment added by 41.220.113.117 (talk) 23:12, 14 March 2008 (UTC)

Alfred Nobel? and Tnt, or dynamite or what ever the fuck he made. БοņёŠɓɤĭĠ₳₯є 00:24, 15 March 2008 (UTC)

Dynamite. bibliomaniac15 02:14, 15 March 2008 (UTC)

In what sense did Nobel ever hate dynamite? Algebraist 17:12, 15 March 2008 (UTC)

It's a commonly stated meme that Nobel regretted inventing it and started the Nobel prize out of something akin to guilt. I haven't any evidence as to whether this is true or not. But you can search for 'nobel+regret' if you wish. Not sure if nobel is the riddle's answer though.87.102.2.103 (talk) 18:29, 15 March 2008 (UTC)

If you look at our article on Nobel, you'll see this is discussed. It's not so much that he hated dynamite as he was unhappy that his only legacy would be his armaments companies, or something along those lines. Dynamite by itself isn't really something worth hating; it's not a weapon, really, not like other explosives are. --98.217.18.109 (talk) 01:46, 16 March 2008 (UTC)

Einstein and the atomic bomb? That guy who made cocaine and cocaine? Yamakiri ^T_C § 03-15-2008 • 19:06:11

Eh, Einstein didn't discover the atomic bomb. --98.217.18.109 (talk) 01:42, 16 March 2008 (UTC)

I hate these internet "riddles"—poorly formed, uncleverly devised. How about—any person who discovers their loved one is dead/cheating on them/whatever something negative? There's no reason to think "discovery" means invention and there's no reason to think that everything discovered is enjoyed. --98.217.18.109 (talk) 01:43, 16 March 2008 (UTC)

I can only imagine that the people who first found the existance of the HIV or Ebola virus aren't exactly in love with their discoveries. Raven4x4x (talk) 11:48, 16 March 2008 (UTC)

Another good one would be Thomas Midgley, Jr. In an attempt to fix engine knocking, he came up with the wonderful idea of leaded gasoline (petrol). Later, when asked to come up with a non-toxic refrigerant, the guy scratched his noodle and came back with dichlorodifluoromethane, the first of the now-banned chlorofluorocarbons (CFCs). And to top it off, he was quite literally hoisted by his own petard — strangled by the pulley system he himself devised to get him out of bed. It has been quite accurately pointed out that Mr Midgely has "had more impact on the atmosphere than any other single organism in Earth history." GeeJo ^(t)⁄_(c) • 13:43, 16 March 2008 (UTC)

March 15

Naked Talk show discussion

Is there a show where people talk on serious topics in nude? if there is, where can I find it on the Internet? —Preceding unsigned comment added by Don Mustafa (talk • contribs) 01:48, 15 March 2008 (UTC)

naked news? БοņёŠɓɤĭĠ₳₯є 02:30, 15 March 2008 (UTC)

Wow. I'm seriously amazed that there was a response that precisely relevant. --Masamage ♫ 06:54, 15 March 2008 (UTC)

Ive got mad skillz БοņёŠɓɤĭĠ₳₯є 00:36, 16 March 2008 (UTC)

Good online source of common-knowledge facts that grade- and middle-schoolers can learn?

I'm looking for common knowledge facts that grade school and middle school students can learn and understand. (If it's not clear what I 'm talking about, think of the kind of material you'd give a youngster to prep him or her to be a quiz game show contestant). It's like trivia, except that I'm interested in facts that are worth learning. Are there any good online sources? --71.162.242.230 (talk) 04:15, 15 March 2008 (UTC)

I'd say Wikipedia is an excellent source for random knowledge. If you ever run out of ideas for pages to read, click the "Random article" button on the left navigation. Acceptable (talk) 05:20, 15 March 2008 (UTC)

(I'm assuming you're looking to try to develop your (or your students'?) general knowledge, rather than game a specific quiz since you say that you want facts worth learning – although, surely, all facts are worth learning! :-) )

A decent familiarity with Greek and Roman mythology is always good, as well as an understanding of the Bible (and other religious texts, too, although references to these (in popular culture, idiom, and so on) are generally lower in Western civilisation). Interestingly, General knowledge is a redirect to our somewhat-unhelpful article on trivia. Books like 'The Pedant's Revolt' might be of interest, since they correct some common misunderstandings. Maybe getting your hands on a basic mathematical dictionary that gives a limited introduction to a wide variety of terms is handy; if you're of an appropriate bent, you may find reading a dictionary moderately interesting (although, I will concede, not for long!). Additionally (although this isn't general knowledge), in the age of Google and Wikipedia, you can garner a fairly in-depth understanding of specific fields with a bit of work.

Of course, you should always be up on current affairs – read a variety of international and national newspapers (another benefit of the web is that you can painlessly regularly access maybe a dozen news sources that interest you). Research the history behind current events. Read magazines – National Geographic, Time, New Scientist. Angus Lepper^{(T, C, D)} 00:26, 16 March 2008 (UTC)

Help : missing dollar

3 ppl went to a restaurant had lunch & paid the total bill of $75 (each paying $25 to the waiter) manager gave them $5 back they paid $2 as tip to the waiter it means that they paid $24+$24+$24=72 + $2 they paid to waiter= $74

where did the remaining $1 go? —Preceding unsigned comment added by 202.154.231.163 (talk) 06:46, 15 March 2008 (UTC)

It didn't go anywhere. The count of money is 75/0; 70/5; 72/3. I can't remember where the mathematical mistake is in this riddle, but I know it has something to do with subtracted when you should be adding, or similar. Hopefully someone else remembers better than me. Maybe someone even knows what it's called! --Masamage ♫ 06:51, 15 March 2008 (UTC)

The issue is that the $24 paid by the patrons includes the tip. All together they paid $24 * 3 = $72, with $2 going to the waiter. You don't add $2 to $72 (since it's included), you add in the $3 that they all received back. $72 + $3 = $75. (I love this puzzle). --Bennybp (talk) 07:34, 15 March 2008 (UTC)

(edit conflict at 1:35AM!) Well, the manager gave them $5 dollars back, so that means they paid the restaurant $70. They kept $3 dollars for themselves ($1 each, I presume), and gave $2 to the waiter. $70 + $3 + $2 = $75. It's all accounted for. Useight (talk) 07:35, 15 March 2008 (UTC)

This is a version of the missing dollar riddle. Gandalf61 (talk) 13:39, 15 March 2008 (UTC)

Bennybp's right. I love this puzzle too.

As our very own missing dollar riddle explains (thanks for the ref, Gandalf!) this isn't so much a math puzzle as it is a wordplay puzzle, or even a word trick. For it very much relies on misdirection. If you were trying to double-check the math yourself, you would probably say something like: "Each guest paid $24. Total going in: $72. The restaurant got $70, the waiter got $2. Total going out: $72. Check. (But boy, those guys are lousy tippers.)" It's only because you've been slyly set up by the innocent-sounding but totally bogus statement "72+2=74" that you would ever have a hard time figuring out "where the missing dollar went".

Like any accounting problem, you just have to balance the "gozintas" and the "gozoutas". It's a classic conservation law. —Steve Summit (talk) 18:21, 15 March 2008 (UTC)

Otherwise known as debits and credits. But I hate accounting as much as the next guy. Useight (talk) 21:05, 15 March 2008 (UTC)

www.charlottesworldwideweb.com

Is this a good idea? —Preceding unsigned comment added by 75.72.30.58 (talk) 07:21, 15 March 2008 (UTC)

Only if it's profitable. Useight (talk) 07:30, 15 March 2008 (UTC)

If you're thinking about it, I recommend checking out the copyright status of the book first of all, and probably consulting with a copyright lawyer. As the book was published in 1952, its copyright may have expired if not renewed. On the other hand, bear in mind that the author was still alive and this is an internationally known book, so I wouldn't put money on it being in the public domain. AlmostReadytoFly (talk) 11:49, 15 March 2008 (UTC)

You can easily check whether books have had their copyrights renewed in the Stanford Copyright Renewal Database. In this case, the answer is definitively yes. No lawyer necessary in something as clean-cut as that (thanks to Stanford having digitized all those copyright office records).

As for whether using a title derivative of a copyrighted book is a good idea, it's not the best idea in any case. I'm trying to think if I've heard of similar examples but not coming up with anything right now; there are lots of examples related to trademark law, though, like MikeRoweSoft.com. A worst-case scenario is that you are accused of cybersquatting and have to hand over the domain name to the publisher or something like that. --98.217.18.109 (talk) 16:34, 15 March 2008 (UTC)

There's also www.nissan.com, not owned by Nissan Motors, but they're trying to get it. Useight (talk) 01:12, 16 March 2008 (UTC)

Titles of books are not copyrightable in the United States, Canada, and the UK. This is a very different matter than a trademark such as Microsoft or Nissan. Whether the White estate has trademarked "Charlotte's Web" is another matter. You really should talk to a lawyer in your locality about this. --NellieBly (talk) 06:23, 16 March 2008 (UTC)

I poked around the trademark database a bit. If it's just a trademark issue, then it's probably pretty safe. The closest I can find is an entry for a company that trademarked the term "Charlotte's Web" for web services: [10]. That doesn't necessarily mean you couldn't use it on a website, but that's the only trademarked use of the term "Charlotte's Web" that would even reasonably apply (others are for things like toys, video games, etc.), and you'd want to make it really clear what exactly your site was about. If you really wanted to be safe, you could try registering the trademark with the USPTO—it'd give you a lot more legal leverage than you'd otherwise have. Again, not a lawyer, you'd want to consult one if you were really worried. --98.217.8.46 (talk) 18:18, 16 March 2008 (UTC)

Internet Networks

If I have a internet network broadcasting silently at home how do I find out what the network name is if it's broadcasting silently? 220.233.83.26 (talk) 10:18, 15 March 2008 (UTC)

Log into the router? Edit: to clarify: you'll need to use a wired connection to do that. AlmostReadytoFly (talk) 11:51, 15 March 2008 (UTC)

"Click It Down"

Who says "Click It Down" on Maury (TV series) and should boys do it? Ericthebrainiac (talk) 12:31, 15 March 2008 (UTC)

Old company logo

Looking to find out what company may have had the following logo I found on an old match stick box. The logo is of a tire with wings, tread facing to the right. It has the words "moving forward" on it. I was thinking it was a tire company log or a raceway logo but have not been able to find a match. Judging from the match stick box, it could be 20's, 30's or 40's.

Jwmjr1 (talk) 14:27, 15 March 2008 (UTC)

Do you mean it is a flip of the logo of the Detroit Red Wings, a variant of the Austin Motor Company logo or Indianapolis Motor Speedway or like this or this? Unfortunately the winged tyre is a symbol that's been used a lot in the past, even appearing on traffic signal boxes. And one more, possibly a better one - the Southern Motor Manufacturing Association of Houston, Texas used a logo along those lines in 1920. Nanonic (talk) 14:50, 15 March 2008 (UTC)

I believe the Indiana or Ohio State Police once had a flying tire logo on the sides of their cars, but it looked a lot like a flying peanut. Edison (talk) 19:37, 15 March 2008 (UTC)

slap bet

When will the next slap occur on How I Met Your Mother? Have they set a date? I've tried slapbetcountdown.com but it just redirects to cbs.com. xxx User:Hyper Girl 15:58, 15 March 2008 (UTC)

Well there are just 2 slaps remaining but I suspect unless anyone is privy to the scripts that they will not know. Hopefully Marshall will be as creative as the last slap, the whole countdown/build up stuff was great. ny156uk (talk) 15:48, 16 March 2008 (UTC)

POLISH FOODS----HOW TO MAKE BAKED PIEROGIES

66.67.118.242 (talk) 20:02, 15 March 2008 (UTC)--66.67.118.242 (talk) 20:02, 15 March 2008 (UTC)

I don't know nothing about the Pierogies. Ericthebrainiac (talk) 20:06, 15 March 2008 (UTC)

They sound like ravioli do you know how to make them? But you boil (and maybe fry them) not baked, maybe you could bake them, I'd suggest coating them with butter or something so they don't go too dry.

try http://www.cooks.com/rec/search/0,1-0,baked_perogies,FF.html 87.102.2.103 (talk) 22:35, 15 March 2008 (UTC)

Polish pierogi are boiled and may be fried afterwards, but not baked. You may be confusing them with Russian pirozhki (baked dumplings stuffed with meat, larger than Polish pierogi) or pirogi (even larger) or even pirozhnoye (desserts). — Kpalion^(talk) 09:26, 16 March 2008 (UTC)

There is at least one Polish RD regular, user:Ouro. You could try his talk page. --Cookatoo.ergo.ZooM (talk) 17:21, 16 March 2008 (UTC)

The Bombing of Llanview Hospital

What is the bombing of Llanview Hospital based on? Ericthebrainiac (talk) 21:26, 15 March 2008 (UTC)

See Llanview,_Pennsylvania#Disasters_and_major_events section "One Pure People Arson Attacks" it seems to have been a racially motivated bombing.87.102.2.103 (talk) 22:39, 15 March 2008 (UTC)

Fraternity Row (soap opera)

What is Llanview, Pennsylvania and Pine Valley, Pennsylvania's soap opera Fraternity Row about and who are the cast & crew behind it on All My Children and One Life to Live? Ericthebrainiac (talk) 21:34, 15 March 2008 (UTC)

Jonathan Lavery's brain tumor

What was Jonathan Lavery's brain tumor based on? Ericthebrainiac (talk) 21:51, 15 March 2008 (UTC)

A need for yet another crisis? ៛ Bielle (talk) 01:16, 16 March 2008 (UTC)

employment

what is the easiest and quickest way of getting a job, if I have never had one before and haven't got much experience of working. Are there any website or anything I can go to, or should i just type out a CV and deliver it to a few shops and stuff. And, how likely am I to get a job that after six months i can leave when I go to university, or have them transfer me to somewhere closer to my university? is it hopeless, or is that quite a common thing to do. HS7 (talk) 22:00, 15 March 2008 (UTC)

It's common to take your cv around to shops and businesses. And it works when you're in a new area as well. Going to a website such as seek.com, asking at job search agencies – depends what you want to do or are willing to do (such as labouring on a building site). The direct approach works pretty well for people. It adds to your cv experience and you can likely transfer your skills to wherever your university is located. Jobs pop up on uni notice boards as far as I know. Julia Rossi (talk) 23:21, 15 March 2008 (UTC)

Once you do leave for university... If possible, go to the town where you'll be going to school and start applying early. Once all the students come flocking back into town, the job market will dry up quickly. If you get there a couple days early, you may get a jump on everyone else who will be looking for part time work while they go to school. Dismas|^(talk) 03:07, 16 March 2008 (UTC)

And for some employers, it isn't always a problem that you're leaving for school in six months. Last summer I got a job in the mall just for the two months until I left for university, with the understanding that I'd be back for Christmas and the next summer. In fact, when I came back for Christmas a couple months ago, they were glad to have extra staff for the holiday rush that didn't have to be trained. I don't know if you'd want to come back to the same job on your vacations, but it's something to consider. Cherry Red Toenails (talk) 04:52, 16 March 2008 (UTC)

Strength/weakness: one word

I posted this at the language desk, but haven't been able to find an answer, so I thought I'd ask here.

Is there a single word for a trait or object which is both a great strength and a great weakness? Examples might include being able to see into the future, being hyper-sensitive to grammar, being extremely tall, having advanced levels of technology, etc.

Related terms are "a blessing and a curse", "Pyrrhic victory", "two-edged sword", and the common mistranslation of hamartia, but I'm hoping to find just one word. It's a pretty common literary trope, so it's gotta have a name, but I can't for the life of me figure out what it is.

It probably doesn't exist in English; we may need to delve into Greek and Latin, or possibly even assemble something. I wouldn't know where to start, though. It's hard to look things up by definition, and I can only reverse-engineer Greek and Latin stuff, not make it up myself. --Masamage ♫ 22:01, 15 March 2008 (UTC)

Mmmh a single word - kryptonite - I'll try looking for a serious answer.87.102.2.103 (talk) 22:20, 15 March 2008 (UTC)

Isn't that only a weakness? X) (Assuming it's green.) --Masamage ♫ 22:30, 15 March 2008 (UTC)

The argument is a bit tortuous but only supermen are affected by it - so it could be considered to be related to his strength. (A sort of faustian pact with a rock). In reality of course kryptonite doesn't actually cause superman to be strong (action at a distance).. Superman is super because he's from krypton (planet) and kryptonite is the remains of the planet. ok. not kryptonite.87.102.2.103 (talk) 22:48, 15 March 2008 (UTC)

I think you are starting with two terms which are extremely loaded: strength and weakness, those being by definition positive and negative traits.

My hypothesis is, that human behaviour has no fixed ethic parameters which - under all possible circumstances - render a particular attitude / action / whatever as positive or negative.

Depending on the current reality, some quality X may be - momentarily - a positive strength (or the opposite). The same X, in 2 weeks or in a different country or given some external event which alters the parameters, may turn into a negative weakness (or the opposite).

Reading up Spinoza, Kant, Hegel and Wittgenstein on absolute values may be an overkill. There is also Aristotle et al on virtue and stacks of religions on the topic.

Short version: I don´t know a term for mutabilitly / vicissitude / temporality / equivocality / ethic ambiguity which says it in a nutshell. Back to the Oregon trail... --Cookatoo.ergo.ZooM (talk) 23:30, 15 March 2008 (UTC)

Sensitivity is both a great strength and weakness. The more sensitive you are, the more affected you are by both pleasant and unpleasant stimulus. Vranak (talk) 00:11, 16 March 2008 (UTC)

That's true, and a good example of the kind of thing I'm trying to describe. What I need is the name of the kind, if you see. --Masamage ♫ 01:17, 16 March 2008 (UTC)

Ok, how about hypersensitive, hyperaware, or simply emotional? Vranak (talk) 02:10, 16 March 2008 (UTC)

Maybe ambivalent and ambivalence come close to a certain extent. I always thought of them as only describing two opposite possibilities but wiktionary is more vague about their meaning. 200.127.59.151 (talk) 01:38, 16 March 2008 (UTC)

Oh, if you're talking about the figure of speech it's oxymoron. 200.127.59.151 (talk) 01:51, 16 March 2008 (UTC)

One might be ambivalent about sensitivity. For example, "I'm ambivalent about my sensitivity. Sometimes it's a huge boon, but sometimes it gets me into awful trouble. I really can't decide whether it's my greatest strength or my greatest weakness". One might also be ambivalent about any other examples of strength-weaknesses, but that doesn't make "ambivalence" the answer to this quest. Masamage, the best minds in the known universe (that's the WP Ref Desk) can't come up with a single word to describe this, so I suggest there is none. Maybe someone, somewhere, coined such a word, and it's tucked away in the musty leaves of the OED, but it seems so out of reach as to be useless. Even if it were tracked down by one of the Noeticas of the world, nobody else would know what it meant. Sorry. -- JackofOz (talk) 01:51, 16 March 2008 (UTC)

Right, thank you. I was hoping some of the best minds were fluent in the Classical languages, I guess; I'm still hoping that. But for goodness sakes, I definitely don't care if no one else knows what it means. :D --Masamage ♫ 07:24, 16 March 2008 (UTC)

Just curious, Julia Masamage. What's the value of a word the meaning of which is known only to oneself? Aren't words meant to be used for communicating with, well, other human beings? -- JackofOz (talk) 17:50, 16 March 2008 (UTC)

1) Knowing a word is fun. 2) I can tell everyone what it means anyway, 3) thereby reawakening its usage. 4) I can use it in the title of a fantasy story. --Masamage ♫ 20:19, 16 March 2008 (UTC)

I see. Thanks, Masamage. And my abject apologies for calling you Julia (no offence to Julia, btw). -- JackofOz (talk) 21:42, 16 March 2008 (UTC)

Ambi-something would have the correct root, maybe a exhaustive dictionary search might turn something up.

I was wondering what the german word for this might be - maybe they have a single word, eg I was thinking of stuff like doppelganger. Category:German loanwords see if you recognise anything. No guarantee the answer si in their.87.102.75.250 (talk) 10:00, 16 March 2008 (UTC)

"ambibeneficial"?87.102.75.250 (talk) 10:14, 16 March 2008 (UTC)

If (Gk) strength is δυνάμη (thunami) as in dynamic, or dynamite, weakness άσθενια and there's ambi to link them, you could try some variations like ambidynasthenia, or just dynasthenia? Or combinations of the German for strength and weakness... festigeit (or kraft) and Schwäche like kraftschwäche maybe? Just engineering, not a linguist here. I like dynasthenia. Julia Rossi (talk) 10:31, 16 March 2008 (UTC)

Hmm, dynasthenia is nice. The real question is whether it would communicate what I'm trying for to somebody who spoke Greek, but it sounds right... --Masamage ♫ 20:36, 16 March 2008 (UTC)

BTW looking at say schadenfreude, there's a greek equivalent compounded with έπι (upon), or you could use έν (in) to get endynasthenia or epidynasthenia – but the annoying thing is there must be a name that does something more than it says – like "Roman holiday" meaning to enjoy other people's suffering or the way schadenfreude (damage + joy) describes a scornful laugh with all that implies. --chipping away enjoying the ride-- Julia Rossi (talk) 11:36, 16 March 2008 (UTC)

The word you're looking for, a single word for something that is both someone's source of strength, their Muse, let us say, and their source of weakness, the thing that leads to their downfall is: Lolita. Something is your Lolita if it is both your source of strength and weakness. Just kidding. But it's the closest I've come... —Preceding unsigned comment added by 79.122.1.135 (talk) 14:10, 16 March 2008 (UTC)

by the by, this is how it starts: "Lolita, light of my life, fire of my loins. My sin, my soul...." Surely your sin is a weakness, and your soul is your strength???  :) —Preceding unsigned comment added by 79.122.1.135 (talk) 14:14, 16 March 2008 (UTC)

That is an excellent metaphor for what I'm looking for, but it seems a little...loaded. XD --Masamage ♫ 20:19, 16 March 2008 (UTC)

You've (correctly, I think) excluded hamartia as a possibility, but I think the modern(-ish) use of the term "tragic flaw" is exactly what you're looking for. Our article basically just cuts off after ancient Greek examples, but the way tragic flaw is used in literary criticism is pretty close to what you're after, I think. Julius Caesar (in the play) reached the top by being unyielding and resolute... but got himself killed for being so. His unmoving nature brought him the dictatorship, but also turned people against him, to his downfall. Our articles on tragic hero and tragic irony seem a little different from what I learned way back in HS, so perhaps my understanding is incorrect, but to my way of thinking the flaw isn't actually tragic unless it was also behind the character's success as well. Matt Deres (talk) 21:56, 16 March 2008 (UTC)

Jones New York

Does anyone know who the spokesmodel for Jones New York is featured in the April 2008 vanity fair and also on jonesnewyork.com under Lord and Taylor? (visit jonesnewyork.com click JNY Events click Lord and Taylor Charity Fashion Show)

EdwinHJ | Talk 23:14, 15 March 2008 (UTC)

March 16

Divorce Watch

On All My Children, how come Divorce Watch was cancelled? Ericthebrainiac (talk) 00:07, 16 March 2008 (UTC)

I've noticed that you've asked a lot of soap opera questions. We do have a specialized Entertainment Desk which is usually where these sorts of queries are asked/answered. --98.217.18.109 (talk) 04:19, 16 March 2008 (UTC)

Split Trax vs. Twin Trax

On commercially produced cd's, can anyone explaint the difference between Split Trax and Twin Trax?? I,ve recently purchased a CD toting Split Trax(Vocal on right balance, Instruments on left balance)but voices are sporadic throughout disc, usually on chorus of songs only, not verses. Publisher (BrentwoodBenson)hasn't been much help answering this question. Previous CD's have had vocals on left side throughout all songs, so I'm wondering if disc is flawed ,or if I should have ordered Twin Trax instead of Split Trax.--Glekel (talk) 01:46, 16 March 2008 (UTC)

Grape Soda...What the?

I drinking some Welchs Grape Soda. May I ask one question...why does the aftertaste taste like the grape flavored medicine that kids hate taking?71.143.3.182 (talk) 03:49, 16 March 2008 (UTC)Cardinal Raven

Probably because it's artificial flavoring. bibliomaniac15 03:53, 16 March 2008 (UTC)

There are a few varieties of "fake grape" flavoring used in both medicines and sodas. None of them take like any actual grapes that I have ever eaten. --98.217.18.109 (talk) 04:18, 16 March 2008 (UTC)

Internet Networks

If you have forgotten your password to a internet network is there a way to find it again? 220.233.83.26 (talk) 09:22, 16 March 2008 (UTC)

This question would probably be better answered on the Computing ref desk. Since you've already posted it here though... What type of network specifically are you referring to? Do you mean the password to the router on your home network? Dismas|^(talk) 09:54, 16 March 2008 (UTC)

Um... I mean the Wireless Network Connection at home. —Preceding unsigned comment added by 220.233.83.26 (talk) 10:08, 16 March 2008 (UTC)

You have two options: either reset the wireless router to its factory (default) settings, or try and access the router directly and find its password that way. The latter requires you to have a physical connection (ethernet) to the router, or to have a computer that already is authenticated with the router and can already sign in. Depending on what model of wireless router it is (Linksys? Netgear? etc.), the method for accessing its settings will vary. Note that if you have a password on the router settings itself, you won't be able to get into it at all (if you don't know that particular password), and will need to do the factory reset. If there is a password on the router settings screen (which is different than if there is a password needed to connect to the internet through the router) and you don't remember setting it, it might be the factory default password, and that can be looked up if we knew the make of the router.

Sound complicated? It is, unfortunately. I wish it were not the case. Even a technologically savvy person can find things like this a little time-consuming and confusing, as there are different passwords for different things and so much of it depends on knowing the specific defaults for any given router. And it's the sort of thing that's hard to explain to others because there is specific terminology (do you know the difference between your modem and your router? whether it is a WEP password or WPA?) that is easy to get confused about. It's the sort of problem you might consider finding someone you know who is very tech savvy and seeing if they can do it for you. (I've tried to explain this sort of thing over the phone to non-techie people before and it's verrry hard to walk them through it). --98.217.8.46 (talk) 22:11, 16 March 2008 (UTC)

Pantyhose

How does Pantyhose keep legs warm if it doesn't hold air against the body and insulate it? Merely adding a layer against the skin does not seem like it would provide protection from the cold to me. Thank you. --24.183.39.245 (talk) 13:29, 16 March 2008 (UTC)

I suspect it acts (at least) as a windbreak, though I think you underestimate the warmth that they will bring. ny156uk (talk) 15:44, 16 March 2008 (UTC)

Real virtual world

What is a virtual world that doesn't suck ass where there is some chance of making a living? Second Life, WoW and Entropia Universe are all out of the question. I want to experience like a simulated young USA. How can there not be something like this out there? —Preceding unsigned comment added by 85.225.48.193 (talk) 13:49, 16 March 2008 (UTC)

A Perfect World Ericthebrainiac (talk) 17:28, 16 March 2008 (UTC)

What do you mean by "making a living"? Making a living ingame, or being able to farm enough gold and resources to sell out of game to make a living in RL? SaundersW (talk) 17:55, 16 March 2008 (UTC)

Jonathan Lavery's health and well-being

I am worried for Jonathan Lavery's health and well-being because what if his brain tumor grows back? What would Greenlee Smythe and Amanda Dillon do when it happens? Ericthebrainiac (talk) 17:22, 16 March 2008 (UTC)

It's fiction, soap opera at that. Who knows. Maybe it'll have been his twin brother from outer space all along. I feel like this isn't really an appropriate question for this forum, though that may just be because I honestly can't conjure up a tiny bit of caring about the answer. --98.217.8.46 (talk) 18:16, 16 March 2008 (UTC)

First of all tumors don't just grow back - ok they do. and if it does he'll be fine - just like a child again - since everyone knows the tumour caused his strange behaviour previously - if he starts acting oddly he'll be straight back in for a brain scan I suppose. Just hope nothing can go wrong with a brain scanning machine.

Can anything go wrong with a brain scanning machine

A brain scan is a non-invasive medical proceedure - with no risk to the suubject. Is that correct?87.102.124.155 (talk) 21:40, 16 March 2008 (UTC)

If you mean a magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) machine, it is non-invasive, but things can go wrong. They generate massive magnetic fields in order to work, and that carries with it some risk (of things getting sucked into the machine while someone is in it, or with an unknown piece of metal inside the subject being pulled out). It is a real threat, not just a theoretical possibility, and people have been injured and even died in such accidents. The problem isn't the scanning itself—it is totally non-invasive—but with the operation of the scanner. See Magnetic_resonance_imaging#Safety. Note that when properly handled, they are very safe; I'm not trying to be alarmist in any way, but since you asked about potential risks... --98.217.8.46 (talk) 21:52, 16 March 2008 (UTC)

Pimpinela

Who are Pimpinela? Ericthebrainiac (talk) 17:26, 16 March 2008 (UTC)

It is an Hispanic operatic soap for those affected by pimples the cultivation of which has been optimised by obsessively witnessing moronic low caloric cerebral nutrients scripted by brain dead prepubescent televisionary dickheads. Bugger it, this won´t work, either... --Cookatoo.ergo.ZooM (talk) 19:01, 16 March 2008 (UTC)

Exceptions

What are the exceptions to the rule that "every rule has exceptions?" NeonMerlin 18:39, 16 March 2008 (UTC)

Obviously it varies rule to rule. Have a look at the article Exception that proves the rule ny156uk (talk) 20:46, 16 March 2008 (UTC)

If you're asking about the ability to make a logical paradox with playful bits of language.. see Self-refuting idea. Or, if you're feeling ambitious, give Gödel, Escher, Bach a spin (the book, not the article on the book). Or jump to the grand-daddy of them all, Gödel's incompleteness theorems. --98.217.8.46 (talk) 22:04, 16 March 2008 (UTC)

I've always treated "every rule has exceptions" as a rule, which therefore has exceptions, such that, umm, some rules don't have exceptions. Hence, the original statement and its apparent contradiction are both true. Gotta love it... 63.231.161.238 (talk) 22:57, 16 March 2008 (UTC) Dan

Home Made Spirit Level

I recall many yeras ago seeing a contractor using a home made spirit level that consisted of a long length of clear tubing with water inside to measue various levels when laying out footings over wide areas with a number of obstacles in the way that would prevent the use of a normal rigid level such as a Carpenter's level or Laser level. Can sommeone tell me how to make such a level and explain how it works? Colin1300 (talk) 22:23, 16 March 2008 (UTC)

I think you've already got the basic idea. Some transparent tubing, bought at your local home-goods store, some barbed couplers to join multiple lengths of tubing if you really need to go a long ways, and some water and you're in business. Try to avoid entraining bubbles in the line; bubbles in vertical sections will through off the balance as that leg of your level would be "lighter" than the non-bubbly leg.

How it works is that within a single contiguous (connected) body of water, all points on the surface of the water will be at the same distance from the center of the Earth; this is the lowest "energy state" for the body of water. So the two or more mensici will all be at exactly the same level once the water has reached equilibrium. Yes, you can "tee off" as many different branches as you like and they'll all be "level".

Atlant (talk) 22:50, 16 March 2008 (UTC)

(EC) Clear hosepipe, mostly filled with water (add some food colouring so you can see it). Leave both ends open (And keep both ends up in the air so that you have a very wide sort of U shape with water in the upright parts of the U) . Water finds its own level ... so the level of the water at the one of the pipe is at the same level as the water in the other end of the pipe. You can use the water level as a datum from which to measure the level you want. (e.g. if you want a level floor, and the level of water is above the floor, you measure levels 2' above the floor, and know that the floor must be 2' lower than the marks. --Tagishsimon (talk) 22:56, 16 March 2008 (UTC)

Long cheap pipe is used for the body of the level, only the ends are transparent with stiff tubing with calibrations, or just clear vinyl.An identical stand at each end makes it even betterPolypipe Wrangler (talk) 23:42, 16 March 2008 (UTC)

Ejaculating into condom?

In Western culture, is it customary for the man to ejaculate into the condom while the penis is still in the woman's vagina after he is done during casual intercourse? Or does the male extract the penis, take off the condom and ejaculate elsewhere? 99.240.177.206 (talk) 00:13, 17 March 2008 (UTC)