Kamis, 16 Juni 2011

Statues around Bali

Bali is the island of thousand temples and statues, with no close rival around the country. It’s the religion and belief that inspired art works, and both are closely interconnected and become inseparable. Grand vision, love, advance knowledge, techniques and skills on arts, supported with wealth and personal sacrifices have created stunning masterpiece.

There I was wandering around Bali a few weeks back, and had the liberty to make a couple of stops and took photos of some of the big statues. Here they are.

Statue of Indra, god of war and greatest of all warriors, rulers of thunder and storms, is located at Tegal Tugu Village, east of Gianyar. He’s shown riding on giant turtle, shooting an arrow straight to the west, where Kalarau statue is located, preventing Kalarau from drinking Tirta Amerta, the elixir of immortality.

Prince Gatot Kaca statue is located at intersection of Jl. Airport and Jl. Raya Tuban, near Ngurah Rai International Airport. The statue is one of the works of I Wayan Winten, a sculptor from Teges Peliatan, Ubud. The statue depicted a story taken form Mahabharata myth about Prince Gatot Kaca, son of Bima, who’s fighting an enemy. The statue was inaugurated on October 30, 1993.

Statue of a gigantic baby is located at Ubud, Gianyar, symbolizing fertility. According to a legend there once was a giant baby born in Gianyar. The baby was named Kebo Iwa, and the statue was erected as a remembrance.

Dewa Ruci statue, located at intersection of Jl. Sunset Road, Jl. Setiabudi and Jl. Bypass Ngurah Rai, was created also by sculptor I Wayan Winten. Bima, one of the five brothers of Pendawa family, was fighting a dragon in the legend of Dewa Ruci.

It seems that the more prosperous the societies, the higher the appreciation of the people are towards classical or contemporary art works and cultural activities, and the more they’re willing to spend money and time, and to provide ample public space for it.

Super Dooper Audi RS6 Sedan


engine
Audi Super Dooper Car is the Fasting Racing sports car The The car has the outstanding Twin Turbo Engine that is actually the fastest Car Vehicle is Embed with Ultra Light Carbon fiber The sports car has the Leather accessories and Top exterior Features The car is consider as the eye Catching car The One who are waiting are waiting for Audi 2012 Model The engine is extremely Powerful The grip of Steering Wheel is super The Top Modern style car Has made it name
Car Price : $248800
The Powerful Super Car has the specifications Listed below:
Engine     5.0 litre V10 twin turbo
Transmission     6-speed tiptronic
Max speed     174 mph
0-60 mph     4.5 seconds
Horsepower     580 bhp @ 6,250 rpm

The Super dooper car is The Best Choice for the Fans who love driving hard and fast cars.Audi RS6 is the German car and the best car of the world is always the German cars.Audi RS6 has set the record to has the fastest car on ice and the record is still unbeaten Car has 21 inch rims and the fantastic interior which make this car the comfortable drive
Audi RS6 2012 concept is out the car is coming is 2012 everyone is waiting for its first drive and New car is equipped with all modern features like navigation system and Airbags ,stereo system controller .2012 models is claiming that the car will be the fastest accelerated sports car and give the tough time to Ferrari.

Brain training boosts working memory, but only in some people




When last we tackled the topic of brain training software, the prognosis did not look good. Although proponents of this software claim that it results in a general boost in mental performance, detailed testing failed to show this general effect, and for some topics, the software was bested by a trivia quiz. Now, a new study has revisited the topic, with its authors finding that some brain training can boost general performance—but only a specific type of exercise, and only among a subset of users.

The study builds off a well-established relationship between general reasoning and spatial memory. The ability to perform abstract reasoning and solve problems you've never seen before is termed fluid intelligence. It's not clear what provides the basic mental horsepower for this ability, but a number of studies have shown that performance in tests that stress fluid intelligence is related to a testee's working memory, which stores basic information for use without committing it to long-term memory. Working memory, for example, is where you hold intermediate sums when you're adding a large column of numbers.

Although we don't know whether it's possible to improve general reasoning, some studies have indicated that it is possible to boost working memory by taxing the system. So the authors created a set of simple games that emphasized working memory, and set a group of nine-year-old children on them.

These games forced the children to solve what the authors term "n-back" problems. In one example, the children were shown a pond in which a frog would appear at random on a number of lilly pads. As the frog vanished and reappeared, the kids would have to recall where it was had been previously. So, for example, the third time the frog showed up, the children would need to remember where it had been the first time. Continued exposure to these games should boost working memory performance. And, on average, it did, with scores improving over time.

On its own, however, this seemed to have a very limited impact on the performance of the children when they were given a test of fluid intelligence, with no statistically significant trend in performance. By this measure, brain training had failed.

But it hadn't, at least not entirely. The authors noted that the children who had undergone training saw variable boosts to their working memory, so they split the trained children into high- and low-improvement groups and reran the numbers. Now, a significant effect appeared: fluid intelligence improvements had occurred among the children who saw the biggest changes in working memory. Their lead over their control peers (who had played a vocabulary-focused game) persisted even after three months, although it shrank a bit over that time. In contrast, the ones who saw little improvement in working memory lagged both their trained peers and the control population.

"Furthermore, there was a significant positive correlation between improvement on the training task and improvement on [fluid intelligence]," the authors note, "suggesting that the greater the training gain, the greater the transfer."

What drove the difference between the two groups? The authors asked the children how they felt about the game, and found that both groups considered it enjoyable. But the ones who saw a boost considered it a fun challenge, while the ones who improved less tended to find it far too difficult, and ended up frustrated by it. Separating out cause and effect there would seem to be a nightmare—were they frustrated because they simply couldn't keep up with something beyond their abilities, or did their abilities not ramp up because of a general lack of interest?

In any case, it's important to emphasize that the authors tracked the improvements in working memory and fluid intelligence, not the absolute values. The high-improvement group ended up statistically no better off than their peers when it was all over. In fact, the kids who began with the highest fluid intelligence scores started off with higher working-memory scores, but ended up seeing less improvement with training. Thus, on some levels, it appears that training is simply leveling the playing field.

In the end, the study seems to have shown that brain training can work, but whether it will or not is highly sensitive to the type of training and the individual being trained. Those are pretty significant limitations, and we could probably benefit from having a better sense of what the limits of training are. As such, the author's conclusion—"Future research should not investigate whether brain training works" (emphasis theirs)—seems a bit premature. Yes, we should investigate the factors that influence how well it works, as the authors propose. But we could also benefit from learning more about when it's going to be effective at all.

Rabu, 15 Juni 2011

1Gbps fiber for $70—in America? Yup


Installing aerial fiber optic lines for the Sonic.net trial project


American ISPs have convinced us that Internet access is expensive—getting speeds of 100Mbps will set most people back by more than $100 a month, assuming the service is even available. Where I live in Chicago, Comcast's 105Mbps service goes for a whopping $199.95 ("premium installation" and cable modem not included). Which is why it was so refreshing to see the scrappy California ISP Sonic.net this week roll out its new 1Gbps, fiber-to-the-home service… for $69.99 a month.

Sonic.net has been around since 1994, selling DSL service in California, but it has recently expanded into fiber; the company has even secured the contract to manage Google's own 1Gbps fiber network that will connect 800+ faculty homes at Stanford University.

Sonic.net's new approach to broadband involves stringing its own fiber lines to homes and offering bargain-basement pricing; indeed, the new 1Gbps offering is the same price as the company's earlier bonded 40Mbps DSL offering (in which two phones lines each provide 20Mbps of bandwidth to a home). The price even includes home phone service.

Sonic.net

Is this really a sustainable model? After all, Comcast offers 1.5Mbps service for a list price of $40; Sonic.net's new offering is more than 600x faster at only twice the price.

Dane Jasper, Sonic.net's CEO, tells me that the new fiber-to-the-home deployment is a trial and will reach about 700 homes when complete. "Honestly, only as those wrap up will we have a complete picture of the economic model," he says. "But I believe that fast service for a low cost is possible."

If the pilot in Sebastopol, California goes well, Sonic.net hopes to expand the service across the region.

Sonic.net

Jasper doesn't think like a typical US Internet exec; in an interview last year, he made clear that his company tries to avoid artificial limits as a way to make more money. "The natural model when you have a simple duopoly capturing the majority of the market is segmentation: maximize ARPU [average revenue per user] by artificially limiting service in order to drive additional monthly spending. But fundamentally this is the wrong model for a service provider like us, and we have looked to Europe for inspiration… I believe that removing the artificial limits on speed, and including home phone with the product are both very exciting."

Though the current trial is small-scale, Sonic.net's pricing reminds us just how much room there is in the US Internet market for truly disruptive pricing of the kind that Google has been promising—but on a much larger scale—with its 1Gbps fiber builds in Kansas City, Missouri and Kansas City, Kansas.
Sonic.net

Duke Nukem Forever: barely playable, not funny, rampantly offensive (2

Fundamentally broken
Duke's original weapons remain, and they're fun to use, but the new sniper rifle and alien energy weapon are rather boring. There was no way to expand on the innovative ideas from the first game, even a little? Yes, you can find and use turrets now, but everything feels dumbed down; objects that you need to interact with simply glow.

When you hold down the left trigger, you don't bring up iron sights; the entire screen just zooms in a bit. There's no animation of lifting the gun, although at least with one weapon, you do get a scope. It all feels like something out of a game from 15 years ago.

Feces

Even worse is the fact that the game uses regenerating health called "Ego," which encourages you to take a few shots at the enemy, run for cover until your health returns, and then attack again. The full-on, guns blazing attitude of the first game (and even more recent titles such as Serious Sam) is completely absent. Duke Nukem Forever turns into a straight stop-and-pop experience, which is not what Duke should ever be. Not only that, but there is no cover system in place, so you find yourself scuttling for the nearest corner or pillar to hide behind.

Duke, the biggest, baddest-ass warrior that Earth has to offer, also turns out to have his limits: he can carry only two weapons at a time, Halo-style. No matter what you're shooting, you'll wish for something else; the game gives you little feedback about whether you've actually hit your target. The boring, glitchy shooting is utterly forgettable.
No reason to play this

Multiple developers have worked on this game for over a decade, so I don't know who to blame for the unplayable, glitchy, ugly, offensive mess it has become. No humor can make up for the game's rampant hatred of women, and the terrible writing and one-liners can't even be compensated for by good gameplay. The game's jokes about other titles are laughable when you see how putrid Duke is upon release.

Scribble in this kid's book for a health boost!

Sure, it may still sell millions of copies due to the name alone, but it will disappoint buyers and make anyone with half a brain feel uncomfortable. I have no clue how a game so all-encompassingly ugly can suffer from so many framerate issues, but Duke finds a way. From a business and gaming history perspective, the fact that the title exists at all is fascinating; for everyone else asked to spend $60 on it, it's merely sad.

I'm a fan of humor that's willing to push the boundaries, but nothing is being sent up, mocked, or lampooned here. There's just no reason for what you see and hear. This is an ugly game that exists to celebrate ugliness. The people involved should be ashamed.

The Good

  • The game doesn't last very long

The Bad

  • Everything else

The Ugly

  • I have to install and play this piece of garbage on the PC to see how that version holds up, and make sure there's nothing to be salvaged from the multiplayer

Verdict: Skip

Here is the List of Top 5 Insurance companies in Washington


car insurance

Top Car Insurance Companies in Washington, D.C

Washington DC is the capital of America and that is why the car insurance is pretty expensive in Washington DC The Average Premium is $1,753.19 which is Pretty high as compare to the other states of America the one reason is that The Washington is the capital of US so the business opportunities is very high their and a lot people start their business from this state and as if the business is more so is the car and Traffic and the accidents record of Washington is high as compare to other states so the insurance companies do not like to take risk of insuring car is cheap prices The competition of insurance companies is very very high in Washington and this give the opportunities that you can get the insurance in reasonable price because of the competition insurance companies offers some discount to potential customers.These insurance companies are consider as the best insurance companies in washington according to the reviews from the Washington citizens who are using the insurance of these insurance companies and are satisfied with the performance of these insurance companies.

Here is the List of Top 5 Insurance companies in Washington
AAA Insurance Company Washington

AIG Insurance Providers

Liberty Mutual Insurance Car Insurance

Farmers Insurance Auto Insurance

21st Century Insurance Company America

car insurance

Top Car Insurance Companies in Washington, D.C

Washington DC is the capital of America and that is why the car insurance is pretty expensive in Washington DC The Average Premium is $1,753.19 which is Pretty high as compare to the other states of America the one reason is that The Washington is the capital of US so the business opportunities is very high their and a lot people start their business from this state and as if the business is more so is the car and Traffic and the accidents record of Washington is high as compare to other states so the insurance companies do not like to take risk of insuring car is cheap prices The competition of insurance companies is very very high in Washington and this give the opportunities that you can get the insurance in reasonable price because of the competition insurance companies offers some discount to potential customers.These insurance companies are consider as the best insurance companies in washington according to the reviews from the Washington citizens who are using the insurance of these insurance companies and are satisfied with the performance of these insurance companies.

Here is the List of Top 5 Insurance companies in Washington

  • AAA Insurance Company Washington
  • AIG Insurance Providers
  • Liberty Mutual Insurance Car Insurance
  • Farmers Insurance Auto Insurance
  • 21st Century Insurance Company America

Top Ten Places to Eat



Bozeman offers a variety of cafes and restaurants scattered throughout town that are bound to delight any appetite. Although difficult to pick just ten local favorites, this list adheres to establishments that offer unparalleled atmosphere and food, all the while showcasing the character of Bozeman. See for yourself what the hype is all about.
The Nova Café

Located in the heart of bustling downtown, the Nova maintains its’ local favoritism as the best breakfast in town. What makes this place so special is that the food is fresh, healthy, and delicious and is brought to our tables by supporting the farmers and producers in our community. Pair the mouthwatering huckleberry cream cheese stuffed french toast with a cup of their ‘black bear’ jasmine and vanilla tea.
Open daily from 7 a.m. until 2 p.m.
A meal here will run you from $8-$12.
Contact Nova at 406-587-3973!.
The Cat-Eye Café

For a cheerful, tasty, yet unusual breakfast experience, try the cat-eye. As the name suggests, the décor, menu, and even the staff are all adorned in cat-like paraphernalia. Try the fishbowl, a mixture of salmon, cream cheese, spinach, and tomatoes. One fun little perk is that wearing cat-eye glasses throughout your meal is good for 50 cents off your ticket! Oh yah, expect your server to be a little catty, all in good fun of course.
Open for breakfast Monday – Friday from 7 a.m. until 2:30 p.m. and on weekends from 7 a.m. until 2 p.m.
Breakfasts here are hefty and average around $8.
Contact the Cat-Eye at 406-587-8844.
The Garage

A no-nonsense, get down to business, and dig in kind of place. In the heart of downtown, the expansive patio overlooks all of the main street commotion. The menu is printed on an array of makeshift license plates, offering a good variety and heaping portions of pasta’s, burgers, and salads. Try the ’57 chevy’ burger on ciabatta bread!
Open 7 days a week from 11 a.m. until 9 p.m.
Main courses average around $10.
Contact the Garage at 406-585-8558.
Montana Ale Works

Originally an old railroad warehouse, Ale Works has transformed itself into a hands down local favorite hangout. The beauty of this restaurant is that it has a very ‘at home’ appeal to it, welcoming families of all ages, cowboys, college students, or visitors just passing through. Overflowing with friendly staff and good music, the menu items are some of the tastiest and most reasonable in town. Along with a full bar, Ale Works features the largest selection of Montana microbrews in town, showcasing beers from all over the state. The spinach-artichoke dip paired with a pint of the snake river brew is a winner.
The restaurant is open 7 days a week from 4 p.m. until 10 p.m., with the bar staying open until 11 a.m. On Fridays and Saturdays, the restaurant stays open until 11 p.m., with the bar open until 12 a.m.
Reasonably priced, expect to pay around $12-$15 for a main course.
Contact Ale Works at 406-587-7700.
Daves Sushi

For the tastiest, most creative, and fattest sushi rolls in town, head to Dave’s. This quaint little spot has serious character, with personality ridden staff members and a vast menu of delicious raw aquatic vertebrae. Enjoy the sweet sunshine outside on the patio during summer or warm up inside with a bit of warmed sake or hot tea on the chillier days. A little insider tip? Ask about the Gobbler roll, it is not on the menu but remains a fat and delicious local favorite.
Open Monday – Thursday from 11 a.m. until 9:30 p.m. and Fridays – Saturdays from 11 a.m. until 10 p.m., closed on Sundays.
Expect to shell out around $8-$12 for a specialty roll.
Contact Daves Sushi at 406-556-1351.
Café Zydeco

I really can’t say enough good things about this place. Café Zydeco is the place to go when you are craving thick, spicy, flavorful, and melt in your mouth Cajun food. This modest restaurant is small and off the beaten path but packs a serious punch when it comes to cuisine. The chicken and spicy sausage gumbo will leave you speechless, not to mention the mind numbing effects of the Creole chicken philly.
Open M-W from 11 until 3, Th-F from 11 until 8, Saturdays from 9-4, and Sundays from 9-3.
Menu items average around $8.
Contact Café Zydeco at 406-994-0188.
Over the Tapas

One of the finest places Bozeman has to offer for that intimate date setting you may be looking for. Tapas boasts a traditional, Spanish inspired menu that offers a selection of appetizer-sized dishes ranging from bacon-wrapped dates to seafood paella. The spinach and cheese croquettes with truffle oil always seem to find their way onto my plate. A Spanish inspired wine selection and freshly made desserts are also on hand, awaiting your palate.
Open Monday through Saturday from 11 a.m. until 10 p.m. and Sundays from 4 p.m. to 9 p.m.
Dishes vary in size and price but average around $10.
Contact Tapas at 406-556-8282.
Ferraros Fine Italian Restaurant

Bringing a little Italy to Montana, Ferraros offers fine dining that you may end up writing home about. A fireplace clad liquor lounge and wine bar offers cushioned seating and only adds to the ambience of the entire restaurant. A few highlights include the Italian pasta, which is authentic and made fresh every day, as well as the wood fired pizza, also made fresh to order. This is one of those ‘can’t go wrong’ restaurants, where everything on the menu is mouth watering.
Open 7 days a week from 5 p.m. to 10 p.m.
An average plate costs around $15, including salad and bread.
Contact Ferraros at 406-587-2555.
Looies Down Under

What an experience, dining and otherwise! You’ll just have to make an appearance to understand what I mean. Walk down underground to the dimly lit and intimate restaurant of Looies and you will be pleasantly surprised. The menu includes some of the most creative and innovate dishes around, incorporating a separate sushi bar in addition to American, Asian, and Hawaiian inspired cuisine. An award winning wine list and saketinis are also available upon request.
The Sushi Bar is open 7 days a week from 5:30 p.m. to 9 p.m. The Restaurant is opened Sunday – Thursday from 5:30 p.m. until 9 p.m., Friday – Saturday from 5:30-9:30 p.m. with a Sunday Brunch from 9 a.m. – 1 p.m.
An average entrée price will run you around $15, including salad and bread.
Contact Looies at 406-522-8814.
John Bozeman’s Bistro


A top ten list wouldn’t be complete without The Bistro. This elegant yet casual dining environment has taken root in a renovated downtown building from 1905. The allure comes from the old school feel, the fresh ingredients, and the creativity and flavorful flair of the dishes. International food at its finest, choose from local bison tenderloin to Mexican prawns to Indian-curry rubbed sea bass.
Open Tuesday – Saturday for lunch from 11:30 a.m. until 2:30 p.m. and for dinner from 5 p.m. until 9:30 p.m.
An average entrée is priced at around $25.
Contact the Bistro at 406-587-4100.

By Julia from AllTrips

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