Common Word-of-mouth Beats &Highly-connected& Influencers

http://www.newswise.com/articles/view/536182?sc=dwtr

Old-fashioned “word of mouth” might be more useful in advertising than previously thought, especially in digital media, according to collaborative research by a Miami University faculty member and his colleagues.

How to Change the World: Must-Read Nanotechnology Report

http://blog.guykawasaki.com/2007/12/must-read-nanot.html

From the page: “Batelle Memorial Institute recently completed a report called “Productive Nanosystems: A Technology Roadmap.” It’s a complete analysis of this world-changing technology.”

(Links to 198 page PDF)

A Pension Scandal Worse Than Maxwell

http://www.fool.co.uk/news/retirement-pensions/2007/12/18/pension-scandal-worse-than-maxwell.aspx?source=ioowftxt0010011

There has been a great victory for the 140,000 workers whose pension schemes went bust between 1997 and 2005. After a ten-year scandal, where they have been deceived and left with no or little money, they are finally getting some help. But how much help?

BBC NEWS | South Asia | Dead fish surface on Indian river

http://news.bbc.co.uk/2/hi/world/south_asia/7151240.stm

Officials blamed rising pollution levels for thousands of dead fish that were washed ashore in Assam.

No need for reduced alcohol consumption in later life

http://www.eurekalert.org/pub_releases/2007-12/tpco-nnf121807.php

“Provided they stick to the same guidelines about alcohol consumption as younger adults, regular moderate drinking poses no additional risks to the over 65s, and may even bring health benefits, according to two studies from the Peninsula Medical School in the South West of England.

Researchers assessed the drinking levels of over 13,000 older people in England and the US and looked at the effects on physical disability, mortality, cognitive function, depression, and well-being. They concluded that moderate drinking is fine for the over 65s – and in some cases is better than not drinking at all.”

Best I treat myself to a nice bottle of wine soon then. Medicinal purposes of course.