Anyone who keeps anything of importance on their computer can tell you nightmares about losing their files. They’ll tell you about how they lost all of their important files right before the big presentation, or how they had to spend hours syncing their playlists, or worse – lost all of their family pictures.

I experienced this nightmare at last year’s E3 convention in LA, the biggest event every year for the gaming industry. I had just been part of a closed-door presentation on an as-of-yet unannounced title from a major publisher, only to have my laptop crash mere hours later. Everything — all of my notes, my pictures, everything…was lost. I spent the rest of the show using colleagues’ computers and panicking that I was going to lose even more.

Then I got serious. Then I got Carbonite.

Think of Carbonite as your safety net, as the program acts as a catchall for nearly all of your irreplaceable files including your pictures, documents and yes, even your music. All of your files are safely uploaded automatically to the cloud so you’ll have access to them on nearly any computer connected to the Internet. I, for instance, took a conference call on my work computer, but was able to access the notes that I wrote at home – no jump drives, no e-mailing, just a lot of peace of mind.

The great thing about the Carbonite service is that it’s so easy to use. Upon setup, you’re given the choice to have Carbonite run and back up everything or pick specific files and file types, then that’s it – Carbonite runs in the background and backs everything up. There’s also an app for tablets and smartphones that allows you to access your files on the go and backs up the photos and videos on your mobile devices. With Carbonite, what I write on my iMAC at home can be shared with my work PC, my phone and my tablet, eliminating a lot of stress and worry.

Since it was founded in 2005, Carbonite has helped their customers safely back up more than 300 billion files and recover almost 20 billion files that otherwise would have been lost forever. Want to try out Carbonite for free? The company offers a15-day, no credit card required free trial. All you’ve got to do is go to Carbonite.com BGand click on free trial. If you type in the offer code SUNNY13 when you start a trial, you will get two bonus months if you decide to purchase. Unlimited backup space is just $59 a year. E3 is hectic enough, at least this year I won’t have to worry about losing a week’s worth of work.

Internet law is always evolving. The Internet is still one of the newest landscapes when it comes to legislation and the groundwork is still being laid. It is not unexpected, then, that new laws regarding the way the Internet is accessed, used, and even abused, will occur. Look at some of the biggest of 2012.

SOPA Failed

Image via Flickr by charlesfettinger

There may not have been a bigger story in 2012 than the failure of SOPA. The law called for the expansion of US law enforcement to fight the purported abuse of online, copyrighted intellectual property. The law would have placed heavy fines on companies who violated such copyright laws. The law would bar advertising networks and payment organizations from doing business with any website infringing on these copyright laws. The law would have affected millions of websites with similar website content.

Social Media Privacy Laws

It is always a good thing to have an Internet provider you want to work with, which is why you can find exactly what you need at InternetProviders.com. However, what you do online is your business. That’s why social media privacy laws were being talked about and thought about in many areas of the country. California put in place the Social Media Privacy Act for its state that prohibits employers and schools from demanding your social media and email passwords. As primitive as it sounds, this is the first step in protecting your privacy rights.

India Civil Rights Fight

Also occurring in 2012 was the fight against what seemed to be violations of the civil rights of people in India. Activities and lawyers spoke out about India’s controversial Internet laws. Two women were arrested after criticizing a city’s shutdown after the death of a leader on Facebook. The Information Technology Act there makes it illegal to digitally send information that is grossly offensive or has a menacing character. Officials noted that the law was very open-ended and could be easily abused. The country was working to make changes in this.

Websites Took to Anti-Class Action Clauses

The news broke that Zappos, a popular online retailer, would be adopting anti-class action clauses in contracts. The US Supreme Court ruled that businesses may adopt this type of mandatory arbitration clause that would ban a customer (who agrees to the terms) from class-action lawsuits. Though the law needs work and there are various requirements for specialization of it, this law set the groundwork for websites to protect themselves against massive lawsuits that could easily shutter their virtual doors. There is still some discussion over its effect, but most believe it is a step in the right direction.

Internet laws and regulations will continue to change as long as it is an important tool in communication and business. Expect changes that could alter the way you use the Internet, whether for the good or for the bad.

So this is where Winter comes from.

The video is from the shores of Medicine Lake in Minnesota and it’s quite the sight. To put it most simply, the ice is starting to hit the temperature where it becomes water and little pieces of ice start to splinter off, creating the unique and awesome scene.

I watch you sleep.

A team of researchers at the Animal Reproduction Institute of Uruguay of created one hell of a night light — a sheep that glows in the dark. The sheep was given the unique characteristics by splicing in a peptide commonly known as green fluorescent protein, or “GFP.”  GFP, which was first extracted from jellyfish is most commonly used in Biotech studies to isolate expressed molecules. It’s been such a valuable tool that the researchers who developed it were awarded the Noble Peace Prize in 2008.

So the sheep. They were born in October and posses all of the characteristics of normal sheep..but, you know…they glow. Though the original experiment of adding the GFP to the sheep was done so just to show that they can do it (no, really), the research team hopes that further research can help aid them in creating cures and treatments for people with endocrine disorders.

Admit it, you’ve been caught once or twice mining for gold.  It’s ok — you’re among friends here. Hiding in shame as you search your nostrils may be a thing of the past though as a Professor at the University of Saskatchewan thinks that not only digging the stuff out..but eating them could actually be beneficial to your health.

Scott Naper, associate professor at the University of Saskatchewan theorizes that exposing the body to germs found in mucous may boost the immune system. “It might serve as almost a natural vaccination, if you will,” Napper told CTV.“Simply picking your nose and wiping it away, or blowing your nose, you might be robbing it of that opportunity.”

So about this time, you’re probably wondering just how Naper figured all of this out; there must have been some sort of research…that kind of research. Sort of, the award winning teacher actually started his research by simply trying to get his class interested in science. “I got their attention by saying that’s why snot tastes so sweet. And a lot of them were nodding along like they agreed, but not really realizing what they had acknowledged,” Naper said.

The study is still in its early stages, but Naper admits that it may be hard to find a lot of people openly willing to take part as Naper plans to conduct a study where half of the subjects are asked to go digging, and then eat what they find, while the others will be asked not to. Any volunteers?

There are a wide variety of iPhone cases on the market. You have the sleek, stylish cases that will protect the phone from most scratches while letting you show some flair as you talk. You have the massive protective cases that will withstand the wrath of the elements while increasing the size of your phone three times over. Honest protection over looks has always been the battle when shopping for a case. NewerTech’s NuGuard KX is dancing in the middle of that line, laughing at both sides.

To start, the case will increase the size of your phone. Nothing massive, but you will have an extra half-inch of body to account for. To combat this, NewerTech has built the phone to have a fantastic texture. The back has a “swoosh” like design for the grip but the untreated areas feel extremely smooth. The sides feel much harder, with a brushed plastic, almost sandpaper texture. A perfect balance is struck by having your phone feel secure in your hand, while slipping comfortably in your pocket.

NewerTech is selling this case as being able to withstand a 200 foot drop. I know better than to test my phone to that claim, but that does not mean I didn’t smash it around a bit. Throw it against a wall, drop it on the sidewalk, “accidentally” let it slip out of your hands and down the stairs of the subway; the phone will still work. What NewerTech calls the X-Orbing technology does a great job of keeping the phone safe. When you press on the back, it feels slightly like jelly, giving the impression that there is some serious impact resistance. For the sides, the hard plastic keeps all the fragile buttons safe and in working order. I cannot vouch for the 200 foot drop test personally, but as far as standard damage a normal person can expect with their phone, the KX has you covered.

Available in 8 different colors, the NuGuard KX does an admirable job of standing out. However, I tested the Trooper (white with black trim) model for about a month and it got pretty dirty after a few weeks. It’s nothing I couldn’t get out without a spit shine, but the grips in particular do a good job of holding on to your dead skin cells. Keep in mind, I only tested the white model, so maybe other colors fare better under use.

The case picks up a bit of dirt after only a few weeks.

Though all of the buttons are easily accessible, the vibrate/ringer switch on the side of the iPhone is much tougher to reach. Rather than quickly flicking it on and off with your nail in your pocket, the KX will require you to dig the tip of your finger into the side of the casing. First world problems, I know, but it does take a bit longer to end the embarrassment of getting a call in the movie theatre. Furthermore, the way the casing is built, the volume buttons are extra sensitive now, so keep that in mind if you are a runner that keeps their phone in their pocket.

Regardless of these flaws, the NuGuard KX is a fine iPhone case. Retailing for a mere $35 dollars, it gives you the best protection you can get without making your phone a hulking briefcase. The color variety is attractive, especially for such a strong case, and you will lose all fear of ever breaking your phone. If you live a slightly tougher than normal life but still like to keep your phone handy, you are not going wrong with the NuGuard KX.

Have you had your computer for a decade? It is likely that you have upgraded or completely switched computers in that time. Because of how fast technology changes, the hardware that keeps your computer relevant also changes. In addition, the things you can do with laptops today were unthinkable ten years ago.

Take Your Project From one Computer to Another

You aren’t always at the same computer. In the past, it was always a pain to get things from one computer to another. And if you forgot something, you were out of luck. However, today you can sync different devices to the same cloud server. This means that no matter what device you are using, you can always have your files available.

Talk to Friends and Family Anywhere with Skype

Ten years ago you could talk to anyone you wanted to simply by picking up the phone and calling them. However, today, you can talk to them on your computer. And when you learn how to Skype, you can talk to them in a variety of ways. Video chat was a thing of science fiction a decade ago, but today it is easy to see the people you talk to when you use your computer.

Twitter With the Astronauts – Yes, the Ones in Space

Are you interested in what happens outside of our world? If you are, just talk to the NASA astronauts via their Twitter page! You can literally talk to the people who are currently living in the space station and get updated on all the details from their trip. Who knew laptops could take you out of this world?

Battery Power is a Life Saver

With new advances in technology, you can stay on your laptop longer. Whether you forgot the charger or you simply don’t have the option to plug it in, the laptop is fine. You can generally last about 4-6 hours on one charge, depending on the laptop and the age of the battery.

Carry Around Hundreds of Books

If you are an avid reader, you don’t need to carry around a backpack full of paperbacks any longer. Instead, just load up your laptop with digital versions of your favorite books. There are a variety of formats you can get books in, such as .mobi and ePub. Though not all books are available digitally, the majority are.

Play Intense Games

Do the games you play take a toll on your computer? Do they require a lot of processing power and a video card that is more expensive than your car? Laptops today can run these kind of games. Video cards these days are smaller and more powerful and are now being added to laptops. Gamers everywhere are now able to play their games on devices other than a ‘gaming desktop.’ Now you don’t have to leave behind your games when you go on vacation. So thanks to modern-day technology you now have that option!

There are so many things we can do today that weren’t even dreams ten years ago. And just think, in another ten years the advances of today will seem like nothing!

The US is coming out in force to reduce greenhouse gas levels by over 16 percent from 2005 emissions figures by 2020. With the announcement of new proposals for the automotive industries, set to regulate emissions from motoring much more strictly, we could be one step closer to achieving this target.

The Environmental Protection Agency has said the new standards for car manufacturers proposed by President Obama’s administration could lead to dramatically less emissions. The EPA’s Bob Perciasepe, acting administrator, said the proposals will “reinvigorate the auto industry” while ensuring “the cars of tomorrow are cleaner, more efficient and saving drivers money at the pump.”

The new rules have been put forward in an attempt to meet emissions targets to reduce air pollution, towards achieving global environmental benchmarks. The EPA are heralding the proposals as a major environmental breakthrough, with the potential for a profound impact on vehicle emissions for the next generation.
Car manufacturers will be required to meet more stringent exhaust tailpipe standards for emissions levels, while gasoline refiners will be expected to enforce at 60% reduction in the amount of sulfur in their fuel.

The move is expected to require a degree of investment from manufacturers and refiners to meet their new production requirements, and has been resisted by those representing industry groups.

Aside from proposed benefits to the environment, those in favour of reducing sulfur levels in gasoline say it lessens the health impact of smog and pollution on humans. The double effect of measures to tackle gasoline and car manufacturers respectively is designed to have a considerable impact on the environmental footprint of motoring.

Alongside other steps to reduce greenhouse gas output, these proposals link with the EPA’s strategy to meet global emissions reduction targets by 2020.

However, opponents of the measures have said that they will contribute to the cost of motoring for consumers and businesses alike, with gas and vehicle prices both likely to increase as a result. Some analysts have suggested the plans could account for as much as 10 cents in the gallon. That will no doubt create strong opinion on both sides.

Car auction site Auto Bid Master says that while steps to control emissions on new cars were a move in the right direction, the additional costs for motorists and the impact of second hand cars could undermine the vision.

“With costs set to skyrocket for both vehicles and gasoline, these proposals could hit ordinary people hard. With millions of second hand vehicles on sale nationwide every month, the environmental impact of these changes will take a while to filter through while road users will be made to pick up the tab.”

The proposals were brought forward previously, only to be shelved ahead of the President’s re-election in case of pushback. Most analysts are now greeting the news as a positive step towards meeting international emissions obligations – even with the additional expenses for motorists factored in.

The proposals will be opened to a public consultation before being implemented for the next generation of new cars. While the measures can do very little to clean up the tens of millions of used cars sold every year, over time the effect will be cheaper, more efficient and ultimately more environmentally friendly driving.

If you’ve ever considered a career in the technology sector, you’re a smart individual. Careers in tech are fun because they change day by day, and often involve solving complex problems that make life easier for the rest of the population. Tech careers have evolved from the days of setting up phone systems, and as technology continues to grow so will demand for tech jobs.

Exciting tech careers can be found anywhere, from small companies to large companies. If you’re interested in a tech career but are relatively unaware of what sort of jobs are out there nowadays, check out this list to see some of the emerging tech jobs, and how they’re very different than tech jobs of old.

Socialite 

No, a socialite in this sense isn’t someone who attends Hollywood mansion parties on behalf of a company. Instead, a socialite in the tech sense works with the rapidly growing field of social media. This type of job is significantly different than say a social media strategist, whose primary responsibilities are to develop strategies based around different social media sites. Instead of writing tweets and Facebook messages, a tech socialite works on the more analytical side of social media.

The socialite job title is relatively new and still being defined, but it’s becoming more important for companies as they realize the marketing potential behind social media. Typically, socialite jobs require some sort of technical background combined with management or marketing experience.

Data Scientist

In the near future (and even now in some cases) companies will be so overloaded with data that they won’t know what to do with it. It will take at least one dedicated position to deal with this data, who is able to collect and interpret massive amounts of data, and then analyze it and present it in a way that’s valuable to businesses. The types of data are endless: it could be analyzing data on neural cell markers by Aves Lab, or it could be organizing the data on where users click most on a certain webpage.

Companies currently are struggling to figure out how to deal with the data they have, which is where a data scientist comes in. This job is highly technical, as it will require analyzing raw figures. It will also require lots of statistics and even artificial intelligence knowledge.

Augmented Reality Specialist

It’s becoming quite clear that augmented reality is something that’s only going to grow in the coming years. Augmented reality helps make life easier for people, as it can easily show directions, reviews, and other useful information.  Companies are developing software and apps that are heavily reliant on augmented reality, and the need for specialists is rising.

Becoming an augmented reality specialist is something that isn’t easy, as it requires extensive knowledge of HTML5 along with 3D modeling skills that sometimes take years to develop. Additionally, becoming an augment reality specialist means you’ll sort of be paving the road for this technology. Augmented reality is so new that it’s still currently being developed and defined, and as an augmented reality specialist you’ll be one of those definers.

Gaming isn’t just a hobby—it is a lifestyle. While some people invest in a set of golf clubs and pay for country club memberships, others invest in top-of-the-line gaming gear and pay monthly dues to online gaming platforms. The only problem is that golfers don’t get criticized for partaking in a hobby that promotes a physically stagnant lifestyle. However, there are ways you can actually get some physical exercise, have fun and improve your gaming reflexes all at once—by riding one of the Solé Single Speed Bicycles around town a few times out of the week.

Hand/eye coordination and everything else

While you know perfectly well that cycling will help keep you fit, you may be wondering how it will improve your response time in playing games. If you ride a single speed bike you renounce the ability to coast—you must engage multiple senses and reactionary impulses in order to slow the bike, and operate it successfully. This is due to the fact that the rear wheel and the cranks are fixed together in their movement. Furthermore, this prohibits the shifting of gears; as long as the bike is in motion, the cranks are moving. This reaction gives the rider a sense of the bike’s speed because the cranks will spin at a speed in direct proportion to the rear wheel. This means the rider can’t simply stop pedaling to cease the bike’s movement, and therefore the rider is engaged in a real-life game of orientation and “catching up” to the score of momentum. And like an online game, the more you practice at it, the better you get. The single speed or “fixed-gear” bike is a perfect choice for gamers who want to keep training their brains to have quick, sharp responses to multiple actions taking place all at once.

From the handlebars to the gaming control 

Riding a “fixie” won’t just improve your score for Xbox 360’s ‘Le Tour de France’. Rather, it will prove to amp up your skills in some of the most challenging games on the market. In an article published on the hardest video games to play, the publisher lists ‘Dark Souls’ and ‘Demon’s Souls’ in their select list. With its requirement for quick decisive heavy actions, the author calls it a “real grind”.

As games are advancing, so too are difficulty levels. Having to react quickly and decisively while 10 things happen all at once on the screen is a long cry from the Super Mario Brothers days. By engaging your senses and reflexes on a fixed-gear cycle not only will you be fueling your body with energy, you will be engaging your entire body with your mind in making split decisions while in constant movement and you will be challenged to make active decisions regarding the momentum of your control.

Style and profile

When you build your character in your favorite role-playing game, you get creative and make careful considerations. Make sure to choose a fixed-gear bike that is carefully designed with stunning color and offers a look that speaks to your inner warrior.

In a modern world of hybrid cars and compact fluorescent light, consumers are constantly looking for new ways to make their energy consumption a little more “green”. Yet as ever more powerful mobile devices flood the market – tablets, smartphones, handheld game consoles, even subnotebooks like the Macbook Air and the Intel Ultrabook – our demand for power continues to grow. Hampered by limited battery lives, these devices require regular charging, both at home and in the wild.

Enter the solar charger: the perfect combination of green energy and modern technology, a lifesaver for mobile users on the go. Or so it would seem. Blast Magazine breaks down five popular entries in the solar charging market to see just how much sunshine bang you get for your hard-earned buck.

Solio Bolt

Price: $70

Available at: Amazon.com, Radio Shack, REI

Specs: 3.5” x 3.5”, 5.3 oz., 2,000 mAh lithium polymer battery

What They Say: Solio bills itself as being “at the intersection of growth in portable electronics and renewable energy”, prioritizing the device’s use with smartphone through strict adherence to the performance and safety requirements of most international wireless carriers. The Bolt is simultaneously a solar charger and a battery pack – a distinction that allows it to charge itself fully without requiring the mobile device to be exposed to the same outdoor conditions and direct sunlight. With an energy output equivalent to the standard wall charger, the Bolt can charge an iPhone in roughly half an hour, though it requires eight to ten hours of direct sunlight to fully charge its own battery – no mean feat.

What We Say: The Bolt is a tradeoff between accessibility and function. A modest price point and compact size and portability come at the cost of overall usability. When the average high-end smartphone battery size resides somewhere between 1,440mAh (iPhone 5) and 2,100mAh (Samsung Galaxy S III), even a fully charged Bolt can only do so much recharging out of the sunlight, and is all but useless to the even more power hungry tablets and subnotebooks. A slightly unwieldy product design requires you to keep a pencil or chopstick handy in order to prop the Bolt at the right angle for maximum sun exposure so it’s ideal for those who plan to spend a lot of time in one place. However, with the added capability of charging via USB and wall socket, as well as its sheer speed, the Solio Bolt nicely bridges the gap between traditional and solar power.

More information: www.solio.com

Voltaic Spark Tablet Case

Price: $249

Available at: Online and at green energy retailers

Specs: 13.5″ x 11″, 2.5 lbs, 10,600 mAh lithium polymer battery

What They Say: Voltaic promises “8 Watts of solar embedded into a streamlined case creates the perfect iPad solar charger”, capable of generating power on a 1-to-1 ratio – for every hour of solar charging, you’ll get one hour of video playback. Essentially an iPad holder with solar panels on the outside, Voltaic plays its “green” angle to the hilt – made from recycled plastic bottles, the case is waterproof, relatively lightweight and, amusingly enough, resistant to UV rays.  Its unique folder design allows the charger to stand on its own or be propped open by the charging tablet or phone. The Spark shares some similarities to the Bolt, possessing optional USB and AC charging, as well as a roughly 10 hour charge time, though for a battery nearly five times the size of the Bolt’s.

What We Say: The Voltaic product line trades Solio’s “one size fits all” mentality for specialization – the right charger for the right device. Even those with only a smartphone would be wise to invest in the Spark – while more expensive than the 4-watt Amp model, its increased power and battery size guarantees that the charger will remain useful even as mobile devices continue to evolve. The panels are rugged, designed for use outdoors, but one should expect them to experience similar wear and tear to other outdoor tools. Though somewhat unwieldy, the Spark is a smart choice for any outdoorsy type with a lot of gadgets. While the most expensive charger on our list, the Spark combines raw power, versatility and the best overall union of form and function.

Soladec All-in-One Charger

Price: $99

Available at: Amazon.com

Specs: 7.4” x 4.4”, 12.8 oz., 4,000mAh lithium polymer battery

What They Say: The golden child of the solar charger marker, the Soladec routinely tops lists of the best solar charger for your money, due to its marked strengths: efficient design, powerful battery, and relative frugality. Unlike the Spark, this device is a truly flexible, proclaiming its ability to charge over 3500 different mobile devices, everything from an iPod to a Kindle to a Galaxy Tab. Furthermore, the Soladec features an ultra bright LED light – an added boon for hikers and campers – as well as an smart charging system (powered by an 8-bit microprocessor) that prevents the battery for overfilling, thus ideally extending its lifespan. Consistent with its challengers’ offerings, the Soladec can also charge via USB and AC power, making it another sturdy addition to the solar hybrid charger market.

What We Say: While its competitors prove lopsided – excelling in one area while failing miserably in another – the Soladec All-in-One is roundly, consistently…okay. Among the bulkier of the compact charger options, the Soladec possesses neither the intelligent tech of the Adventurer, the large battery size of the Orange or Spark, nor the lightweight size advantage of the Bolt. The low wattage solar panels draw power at a slower rate, requiring upwards of 11 hours to fully charge, far longer than others on this list. Additionally, the Soladec cannot be turned off so, like a laptop set to “sleep”, the battery slowly drains while not in use. Still, the $99 price point is nothing to scoff at, and a device this routinely well-reviewed must be pretty good in the field.

Powertraveller Solarmonkey Adventurer

Price: £87 (about $137)

Available at: REI, Eastern Mountain Sports, Think Geek

Specs: 6.7” x 3.8”, 9.3 oz., 2,500mAh lithium polymer battery

What They Say: A fairly ordinary solar charger by the standards presented here, the Solarmonkey Adventurer combines the compact design of the Soladec and Bolt with the rugged sturdiness and outdoorsy angle of the Spark. Powertraveller, long established in the portable power market, has taken their first stab at an all-in-one device – no removable (or replaceable) battery – with this product. Utilizing the same maximum power point tracking (MPPT) found in large-scale solar power projects, the Adventurer has a hidden talent: “auto-load, self-sensing, charge optimization technology” – essentially, the ability to charge in low or variable light, at night, and to maintain a consistent power level within the charged device as it does so.

What We Say: Unlike its competitors, the Adventurer seems solely designed for the use in the outdoors, emphasizing durability and portability over battery power or versatility. While the Adventurer is resistant to shock, water and extreme temperatures, these positive traits are vastly outweighed by a device that, with a 2,500mAh battery, can admittedly only charge an iPad to roughly 25%. Smartphones and other mobile consoles will fair little better. While the MPPT technology is impressive stuff, the Adventurer comes across as almost too specialized, particularly as the only device on this list to not come with an AC power adaptor included, allowing it to function as a multipurpose charger.

Solar Joos Orange

Price: $149

Available at: Solar Joos online store and Amazon.com

Specs: 3.5” x 3.5”, 24 oz., 5,400 mAh lithium polymer battery

What They Say: Fast, powerful, and generally well liked – the Orange has a lot going for it. With both a rapid charging (1 amp output) ability as well as a battery capacity that surpasses its compact brethren, this charger offers the most charge per square inch of any on this list. Solar Joos promises that the Orange “charges at least 3.5x faster than any other portable solar charger at the same price”, as well as a 1 to 2 ratio of hours charging to hours of low-energy phone usage. Perhaps its most notable characteristic is the option to replace the battery – a feature not found in other all-in-one chargers – that might make the $149 price point a little more palatable. This characteristic, paired with a proprietary MPPT algorithm designed to lengthen battery life, makes the Orange an attractive investment for someone looking to get the most out of a solar charger.

What We Say: The Orange epitomizes what people like about green technology: clean, simple design, hardy, resilient construction, and expensive enough to make you feel like your making an impact. Clocking in at almost two pounds, the Orange lacks the lightweight convenience of the Bolt or Adventurer, despite an attractive look and helpful kickstand that allows it to stand on its own. Though the Orange possesses the ability to charge in low light – a feat beyond some of the lesser chargers on this list – the energy consumption is so diminished by this that it almost isn’t worth it. There are other chargers on this list that won’t put such a large dent in your wallet, but if you’re looking for fast charging and a sleek look, the Orange is the solar charger for you.

Throughout the recent green revolution taking place to wipe the planet of our carbon footprint, major companies are taking measures to reduce waste and aid the environment. Among these, Google has joined a coalition promoting a “Paperless 2013.” Joined by Hellofax, Manilla, HelloSign, Expensify, Xero and Fujitsu, they aim to go paperless in the new year and encourage others to follow suit.

The website www.paperless2013.org allows companies to join in the effort and provides resources for those interested. Among these resources is the increase in hard disk recovery needs as there are fewer paper records to fall back on. Services such as Google Drive and Amazon Cloud storage are other creative means to reduce paper waste in the year and keep the company efficient. Nonetheless, according to the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), the average US office worker goes through 10,000 sheets of copy paper per year. This comes close to 400lb of paper per worker. Just two years ago, the amount of paper recovered for recycling averaged 334 pounds for each person living in the U.S, according to the American Forest and Paper Association. Either way, even recycling paper costs a huge amount of energy, and simply going paperless can greatly help the growth and healing in the environment.

2012 was a great year for cell phone technology. We saw more integration with things like computers and cars, cheaper devices, and faster Internet with more coverage. A lot happened in 2012 with cell phones, but we can expect even more things to happen in 2013 and the coming years. Advancement in cell phone technologies is something that’s not expected to go away anytime soon, and it seems like things are only going to ramp up in the upcoming year. Just like car companies create concept cars, cell phone companies create concept cell phones. If you’re curious what some of the new features that your future cell phone might have and you plan to shop for the latest cell phones in a few years, check out below to see potential technologies and features that could start appearing on cell phones sooner than you may think.

Flexible Cell Phone

The flexible cell phone could revolutionize the way you carry around your phone, and it may available in the near future. With the development of flexible LCD screens, it seems that totally flexible cell phones might not be too far away. Imagine instead of carrying your cell phone in your pocket, you wore it on your wrist like a bracelet. It could function as a very fashionable watch, and you could quickly snap it off if you wanted to dial a call. The flexible cell phone could become a very popular alternative to keeping your cell phone in your pocket.

In Ear Cell Phone

The convenience of a Bluetooth earpiece of unmatched, especially when it comes to driving in your car or doing something that requires you to use your hands. The in ear cell phone is essentially a Bluetooth earpiece, and that’s it. It fits in your ear, so you’re not carrying it around in your pocket and it’s always hands free. If you wanted, you could easily pop it out of your ear and “unfold” it to make a call or put it on speakerphone.

Projector Cell Phone

The projector cell phone concept could be a fantastic choice for people who are constantly running presentations, since it easily projects onto any wall with clear quality. Not only will it be a great choice for people running business presentations, but it could also be great for families because you could instantly put a TV on any wall needed.  There are already quite a few accessories that turn your phone into a projector, but expect the projector cell phone to be a game change with its quality.

Clear Cell Phone

The clear cell phone is not as much revolutionary in the technology sense as it is in the aesthetic sense. The clear cell phone is essentially exactly how it sounds; clear. It could display beautiful see through applications, and all around be a beautiful phone. It could also make user interaction easier since you could use your finger as a stylus effectively. Needless to say, the clear cell phone would be the envy of everyone.

Making sure you get your all of your needed nutrients is important. It’s easy to remember to take a multivitamin every day, but sometimes that multivitamin doesn’t have everything you need to keep your body in tip top shape. Vitamin deficiencies are more common than you may think, and can lead to negative consequences. Vitamin deficiencies are especially common if you have just started a new diet, because some diets lack certain nutrients that you might need to keep living a healthy lifestyle. Make sure you take care of yourself by going to the doctor regularly and making time for spa days.  Check out this list of common vitamin deficiencies and make sure you’re getting all of the nutrients you need to live a healthy lifestyle.

Iodine

Iodine plays important regulatory roles in our bodies, and an iodine deficiency can lead to some serious problems. Removing iodized salt from your diet could lead to an iodine deficiency, and many people have iodine deficiencies who choose that kind of diet. Iodine deficiencies could lead to hypothyroidism, symptoms of which include weight gain, dry skin, hair loss, and many other negative symptoms.

Thankfully, it’s easy to make sure you get enough iodine in your diet. One of those ways is to eat a lot of seafood, especially shellfish. Pollock, codfish, and abalone have the highest amounts of iodine, but pretty much anything from the sea should do. Pastured egg yolks also have a good amount of iodine. If those options don’t suit your fancy, consider taking a supplement for people with iodine deficiency. Check out Medix Select dietary supplements to see if any supplements might suit your deficiency needs.

Magnesium

Magnesium is a very important mineral that many people don’t get enough of. Only about half of the United States gets the recommended dosage of magnesium per day, and there are studies that link low magnesium intake to diabetes, asthma, heart disease, and cancer. In the short term, side effects of low magnesium intake range from constipation to cramping, and a feeling of restlessness. You may be experiencing a magnesium deficiency if you don’t eat enough greens, or have recently installed a water purifier since it likely removes the magnesium from the water.
                              
If you’re experiencing a magnesium deficiency, start eating a lot of leafy greens. Nuts, seeds, chocolate, and even espresso all have magnesium in them, so add those back into your diet too to make sure you’re getting enough magnesium. If those options don’t suit you, opt to take a supplement.

Vitamin K2

Vitamin K2 isn’t one of the most widely recognized vitamins, which might explain why a lot of people suffer from K12 deficiencies. Not getting enough Vitamin K2 is bad for your bones, and can lead to osteoporosis in the long term. It can also cause tartar to build up on your teeth, which could eventually lead to tooth decay. K2 is in some more uncommon foods, like goose liver, fish eggs, butter, and aged cheese. But it is a very important vitamin to get, regardless.

If you aren’t into eating goose liver, Vitamin K2 is available in many different supplement forms. Since it’s such a common deficiency, check with your doctor to see if you should be taking a Vitamin K2 supplement.

As cars have become more advanced in the last few years, car distractions have increased too. Since there are so many more gadgets on the inside of your car, there are more things that can take your eyes off the road. But developers are fast at work to invent technologies that intend to minimize those distractions, while increasing the number of gadgets in your car. Expect to see these awesome technologies in cars you can purchase from dealerships like www.jbakia.com.

At this year’s Consumer Electronics Show in Las Vegas, a lot of the focus on the automobile technology has been on safety. High tech cars have tons of features like self-parking, lane sensors, and other things. Center consoles have gone from having a tape deck and radio to full on LCD entertainment systems. The software firm QNX has been debuting lots of conceptual technologies at CES this year, and that technology is going to make your car safer.

QNX’s goal is to make the things that people do everyday in the car easier and safer. Talking on the phone and texting while in the car are both illegal in many states because they are dangerous, but QNX is trying to make those activities not dangerous. One example of the technology they’re developing is an easy Bluetooth syncing technology, which allows the pairing of Bluetooth devices with a simple tap on the dash.

Another technology that QNX is developing is putting GPS systems on the dashboard, so looking at navigation means you won’t have to take your eyes off the road for too long. Basically, the goal that automakers have right now is to make everything that’s in your car safer, more reliable, and easier to use.

Many users of voice activated technology in cars have complained that the menus are often hard to navigate, because you must memorize certain commands in order to navigate through the menus. One of the technologies that was displayed at CES aims to make those voice activated technologies simpler to use, and in natural human language. When you ask Siri a question on an iPhone, you speak like you would be speaking to any other person. Putting that technology into cars will make them safer, because you won’t have to think so much about what commands you’re using when asking your car for directions. In fact, Hyundai is even working to introduce the Siri technology into its own cars.

Subaru has also been a big player in this year’s CES. Subaru introduced a system called “StarLink” which the company says will be its infotainment focus. StarLink will allow access to different Internet radio stations, different social networks, and even smart-braking technologies. Subaru also introduced something called “EyeSight” which uses cameras to identify the vehicles and conditions around your vehicle, and can even prevent accidents by stopping your vehicle. It can also identify pedestrians, so should you ever not see someone in a crosswalk, EyeSight could stop your vehicle for you.

All of this technology is very new and exciting. It’s sure to change how the automobile safety world operates.

Now that you just got that awesome brand new smart phone for a holiday present, you’re probably starting to figure out its bells and whistles and fill it up with some sweet apps. There are the common apps like Instagram and Angry Birds, but some of the best and most useful apps that are available on smart phones aren’t as well known. While everybody uses a smart phone for a different reason, there are some universal apps that can benefit everybody. After you’re done using your smart phone to update your free website from http://www.freewebsite.com, check out these apps that will make your smart phone even smarter.

1 Second Everyday

1 Second Everyday isn’t available to the public just yet, but when it releases it’s expected to be one of the most popular apps available for download. 1 Second Everyday should be available within the next few months, and will allow users to chronicle their lives in a very interesting and unique way. The app will remind you each day to take a short video of something interesting you’re doing, and after a year (or a predetermined amount of time) it will allow you to easily combine all those videos into one large video. It will take one second from each of the videos, so you’re left with a large video that sums up everything you did in a year. The app will also allow you to keep multiple timelines, so you can create videos of different things in your life (like what shoes you’re wearing, what your kids are doing, etc.). This app will be a great way to easily create mementos, so be sure you download it once it’s available.

Songify

If you don’t already have Songify downloaded, you’re missing out. Not to be confused with the popular music service Spotify, Songify allows you to easily create hilarious songs just by speaking into your phone. Download the app, press the button, talk about whatever you want for as long as you want, and press play. The app uses popular auto-tuning software to place whatever you recorded onto a beat, and quickly mixes your recording to make an awesome song. You can choose from a bunch of different beats that come free with the app, or opt to download some extra beats for a small charge. No matter if you use it to record that album you’ve been putting off, or just to have some fun, Songify is a great way to make your smart phone into an on the go recording studio.

Yelp

The Yelp mobile app is absolutely vital to people who like to try new things or who travel a lot. If you ever read reviews online then you’re off course familiar with Yelp, as it is the go-to place for online reviews. The Yelp mobile app contains everything that the online site does, but also has some cool features that give you some extra incentive to try new things. For example, different restaurants or stores may offer a discount or freebie if you use the app to “check-in” to their location. It’s a great app to have, and keeps you informed of different establishments in your locale!

The world is most likely not ending, but 2012 is just about over, and should we make it past the Mayan’s prediction, we’re in for some pretty cool things for 2013. From spacecraft to technology to the next generation of game consoles, we can expect a lot from the next calendar year. 2012 brought us a lot of cool things including the landing of Curiosity on Mars and the possible discover of the “God particle” but 2013 will bring some much cooler and more exciting things than even 2012 did. If you’re over this year already, and looking forward to the next, check out these exciting new things and technologies that you can look forward to in 2013.

Gaia Spacecraft 

Everybody knows the importance that space exploration has for the future of the human race. The Gaia Spacecraft is expected to launch in October 2013. Short for Global Astrometric Interferometer for Astrophysics, the Gaia mission is expected to more accurately read the distances and positions of stars, look for thousands of more planetary systems, test the theory of relativity, and do many other astronomical things. Over its five-year mission, the Gaia spacecraft is expected to map more than one billion stars in our galaxy, using its billion-pixel camera.

Switch from Cable Internet

As WiMax technologies become more and more affordable and available, expect massive amounts of consumers to start switching from cable Internet to 4G mobile broadband coverage. As consumers opt to switch to clear Internet service, cable Internet companies will struggle to survive. The benefits of WiMax technologies greatly outnumber those of cable Internet, one of the biggest being that it’s possible to essentially take your Internet with you wherever you go. As prices continue to drop, expect mobile broadband usage to soar through the roof.

Flexible Screens

The technology is here, and expect it to start appearing in your home and in your hands in 2013. Flexible LCD screens will start to enter the smart phone and tablet markets, introducing whole new ways to experience these devices. You could twist your phone to read a text, for example, or install a TV in your room that wraps around you. Flexible screens are film-based, and could revolutionize gadgets that could benefit big time from having flexibility. The technology has been around for a while, but it’s finally affordable enough to mass-produce.

Next Generation Gaming

The Xbox 360 and Playstation 3 have been around much longer than industry experts predicted, and expect them to get an upgrade in the next year. While little is known about the next generation of game systems, we’re already starting to see next-gen gaming appear. The Wii U, for example, jumped the ship and was released before 2012 even came to a close. Expect these new gaming systems to heavily incorporate 3D technology, while furthering the use of motion detection as seen in late 2011. Graphics will also be more powerful, and next gen consoles will further blur the line between reality and virtual reality.

Tis the season for buying. Last week we tackled a budget list of Tech Gifts Under $100, but now that we’re getting closer to the big day, it’s time to kick things up a notch with some high-end hi tech gadgets. Here are the top 10 items under $1,000 that Blast recommends:

Google Nexus 10: $399.99

The Nexus 10 has something for every person in the family. A stunning display in a light frame makes for a seamlessly balanced tablet. Thanks to it’s separate customizable spaces, multiple family members can use one device by signing in to different spaces. Whether one person or the whole family uses the Nexus 10, it’s a great tablet for anyone. The front-facing camera makes Google+ Hangouts video chats easier than ever. Google Play is your one-stop shop for downloading movies, TV shows, music, Apps, magazines and books.

Bowers & Wilkins P3 Headphones: $199.95

The P3′s audio drivers provide for a pure, natural sound like no other headphones on the market to date. Bowers & Wilkins has introduced a distinctive damping system that supplies the finest balance of solidity and flexibility in sound. The P3′s foldable design is greatly portable, fitting in its hard-shell carry case, handbag, or even a jacket pocket. Heat-sensitive memory foam pads form to your ears, offering comfort and boosting sound quality.

It’s simply the ultimate headphone priced well below its quality level, and we dare you to try and tell the difference between this and a $1,000 pair of “Beats.”

Orb Audio Booster Amplifier with Mod 1 Quickpack

We’ve played with Orb audio speakers over and over again, and we have not been disappointed. The affordable $164 Booster amp paired with any set of Orb speakers fills a room with larger than average sound.

The Orb Mod 1 Quickpack is the ideal pair of small speakers for a small to medium sized room. The speakers offer advanced acoustic properties and the round form is easy on the eyes. Rivaling many large speakers, getting more for your money is just the beginning. Paired with the Orb Audio Booster Amplifier, you can manage up to 4 components with one simple to use remote control. Along with your Mod 1 speakers, your cable box, TV, iPod, computer and even more can be connected as well. In addition, this Booster features a subwoofer output, providing you with high fidelity in a surprisingly tiny package.

Panasonic VIERA TC-L55E50 55-Inch 1080p Smart Television: $849

OK, so there are bigger televisions out there. And cheaper ones. But the Panasonis VIERA 55-inch Smart Television is a perfect living room focal point.

It’s a Smart TV, and like a smartphone, it uses the Internet to infinitely increase your entertainment capabilities. The television, without using an Apple TV or a video game console, lets you watch Netflix, YuoTube, and Amazon Prime and stream Pandora music. The VIERA Remote App also takes the remote control out of the equation, letting you use your phone or tablet to control the fun.

It’s also a great TV with a crisp picture and decent on-board speakers for those of you without surround sound systems.

Sony Cyber-shot Digital Camera RX100: $649.99

The New York Times calls the Cyber-shot RX100 “The best pocket camera ever made.”

Sony exudes superb image quality and high-end picture management in a truly condensed package. The Cyber-shot RX100 features a 1” sensor, large-aperture F1.8 lens, and brilliant ISO sensitivity, giving you extraordinarily low noise even in tricky lighting environments. Legendary Carl Zeiss Vario-Sonnar T* lens paired with an integrated control ring puts optimum camera settings at your fingertips. With 20.2 megapixels and 3.6x zoom, form and function have never been so on par.

Samsung DA-E750 Audio Dock: Starting at $527.99

Presenting exceptional sound plus a beautiful form of gloss-like cherry wood texture, the Samsung DA-E750 is not only a excellent wireless audio dock, but also a gorgeous sight to see. This dock caters to both Apple and Samsung Galaxy devices with AllShare Play and AirPlay wireless connectivity. You can also stream music using Bluetooth 3.0.

By means of the Valve Amplifier Amp, the Samsung Audio Dock generates a richer and fuller sound experience. Also, the built-in subwoofer bass brings never-before-heard depth to your already incredibly clear sounding music.

Microsoft Xbox 360 Console: Starting at $249.99

The Xbox 360 has shown that it is a fierce competitor in the gaming market. Recently though, the Xbox has shown that it cannot just be a gaming console, but more popularly, an entertainment console.

With built-in Wi-Fi, the Xbox 360 has many features such as Netflix, Hulu Plus, Internet Explorer, Nike+ Kinect Training, YouTube and much more. Blockbuster movies, streaming music and sports entertainment are also available, all at the press of a button.

Slingbox 350: $180

Simply put, the Slingbox works.

You can watch your own cable television from anywhere in the world, on a PC, laptop, iPhone, iPad, or Droid, without any additional monthly cost. You can even watch On Demand and DVR’d shows and HD content.

There are a dozen “placeshifting devices” out there that claim to let you watch live TV from the road, but the Slingbox is the one to buy. Don’t be fooled by lower-priced knockoffs.

Panasonic LUMIX DMC-GF5K 12.1 MP camera: $350

Do not spend more than $350 on this, and look online for the best deals. But don’t buy a $100 camera either. Today, people who actually want a standalone camera that’s not attached to their cell phone want benefits like interchangeable lenses, fast auto focus, and the ability to create professional still photos and HD video. The LUMIX does all that and more for a reasonable price.

A high-end DSLR camera is a waste of money for a regular person simply looking to take better pics. The LUMIX balances the needs of the budding hobbyist with the abilities of today’s consumer.

Apple MacBook Air: Starting at $999.99

Last but not least — most in fact — the MacBook Air may be lightweight, but it holds heaps of power. This petite 11.6-inch display carries a 5-hour battery, 64GB flash storage, 1.7GHz dual-core Intel Core i5 processor, and 4GB of RAM. With a full size backlit keyboard, 720p front-facing camera, multi-touch trackpad, and the power of Mac OS X, this notebook may be small, but it most definitely is not feeble.

John M. Guilfoil of the Blast Staff contributed to this report.

When I posted my story 5 things I’ll do to my 2012 Dodge Charger (and 3 I won’t…) I got a lot of flack from my car friends and forum-folk about simply refusing to do anything with the car’s exhaust system.

I took it all with a grain of salt until the folks at CORSA Performance reached out to me with sights, sounds, and an offer to prove me wrong when it comes to sound, power, and airflow in my 2012 Dodge Charger R/T.

First, we had a little talk.

I’ll be honest, I went into it thinking “of course these guys are going to tell me to replace the exhaust, it’s what they do.” But after a chat with CORSA’a Tim Mansell, I’m starting to come around.

Here’s what we discussed:

JOHN M. GUILFOIL: If I was considering taking the plunge and replacing my car’s stock exhaust, what is the #1 thing I should consider?

TIM MANSELL: A car owner should consider what they want from an exhaust, whether it be sound, performance, ease of install, price etc.

It depends on what is important to each individual owner. There are so many different options and so many different ways to go that it always comes back to the same thing; what does the car owner want.

JG: Some people…uh, like me…say that you only get a “sound boost” from aftermarket exhaust, especially on a performance car. Is there more to it?

TM: There is a lot more to it. Sound boost is just one of the many advantages an aftermarket exhaust brings. CORSA has an aggressive sound outside the car while remaining drone-free inside the car while cruising, increased performance and an upgraded look.

JG: What is the relationship between sound and performance?

TM: Sound and performance are two completely different concepts. In regards to exhaust, you could have a great sounding system, but not see any performance gains because the exhaust path isn’t free flowing. CORSA exhaust systems have a straight through design and are engineered to be free flowing while still providing an aggressive, upgraded sound.

JG: How much should someone expect to pay for a quality aftermarket exhaust?

TM: The price range in the market varies greatly, but you get what you pay for. If you want a premium, high quality exhaust, then you will have to pay for it.

JG: OK, but why should I do any of this?

TM: CORSA is known as a premium aftermarket brand. This product speaks for itself. The systems come with a limited lifetime warranty for good reason. The kits are all crafted from premium stainless steel and are engineered and acoustically tuned to be vehicle specific. We allow for added performance as well as an upgraded sound and look. Our system is considered an OEM replacement and is built to meet OEM standards. We go to a lot of car shows throughout the year, at those shows you can get a good feel for the product by talking to customers about it.

JG: Besides the exhaust, what “mods” or upgrades would you recommend a car owner make?

TM: The exhaust is a great start. There are a lot of simple modifications that can be made if a car owner is looking for more performance and sound though. Mods like a cold air intake, high flow catalytic converters, headers and a tune are all great modifications that will add to performance and sound. An engine is basically just a big air pump, so the better you can get air in and the easier that air can flow out, the better the engine will perform. Each of these modifications work very well with our exhaust systems because they are free-flowing.

JG: Cat-back? high flow? headers? What’s it all mean?

TM: Cat-back is a term used to describe an exhaust system that begins right at or right behind the catalytic converter and continues out the back of the vehicle. The other common term is axle-back, which refers to an exhaust system that starts at the rear axle and continues right out the back.

High flow is a term that refers to the flow of the exhaust. It is commonly referred to when talking about catalytic converters. There are less cells in a high flow catalytic converter than there are in a standard converter, which simply means that the exhaust can flow through easier. Like with CORSA, we have a high flow exhaust system, meaning our system flows better than a typical stock exhaust system.

Headers refers to exhaust headers. Headers are another way to upgrade or modify your vehicle. They are designed to increase the flow of exhaust, by decreasing back pressure. They make it easier for the cylinders to push air through the exhaust, which allows the engine to breathe easier and perform better.

JG: OK, Personal question — I have a stock 2012 Dodge Charger R/T with the Road and Track Package, 5.7L HEMI — just put the Mopar Cold Air Intake in it. If I was going to go with CORSA, what would you recommend?

TM: I recommend our CORSA Xtreme system (if you like it a bit louder when you put your foot into it, we also have a Sport system if you prefer something slightly quieter outside the car). This is a complete cat back system that will add to the performance and sound of your car. We have seen, on average, a gain of 11 HP to the wheels and 13 ft./lbs. of torque. You will also gain a great sound. The Xtreme system provides that real nice, deep muscle car tone. It will be aggressive under wide open throttle, but quiet at cruising. There will be no drone on the inside of the cabin, so your car will be aggressive when you want it to be and quiet when you need it to be. It is the best of both worlds.

Take a look.

So what do you all think? To Exhaust or Not To Exhaust?

Three-dimensional printers are becoming the hot new item to have, and sales are expected to take off in 2013. Not long ago, 3D printing was considered science fiction, but now the technology is here and the cost of a 3D printer is becoming more affordable. While you’ll still need to replace the konica toner in your old printer, having easy access to 3D printers could easily change many different aspects of society. If you aren’t familiar at all with 3D printers, check out what they do, what they’ll be able to do, and how they might change the way we go about our daily routines.

What Does it Do?

3D printers can make just about anything. It’s essentially an increasingly popular way of micro manufacturing, and a 3D printer can create anything from a coat rack to a fully functioning gun. Most simply put, a 3D printer creates three-dimensional objects from digital models. Right now, 3D printing technology is used mostly to create jewelry, shoes, map systems, architectural models, and many other things. Since the print speed is currently somewhat slow, their use for mass production is limited as of now. But as technology gets better, 3D printers may be chosen over traditional manufacturing methods. 3D printers can currently even make complex things like a ship in a bottle.

What Will it Be Able to Do?

As 3D printing technology gets better, it will be used in many more facets of life. In the future, you may fly on a plane that was created with 3D printing technology. You could start seeing that some car parts become cheaper as manufacturing costs decrease due to the adopting of 3D printing technologies.

One huge roll that 3D printing might play in our future is in the medical field. Since 3D printing will allow things to be built exactly to the size and body shape of different patients, it will be a lot easier and cheaper to create prosthetic limbs and other kinds of medical devices. There are also even experiments going on to print soft tissue, which could mean that 3D printers could print veins and arteries. The technology could revolutionize the medical field, and it could happen sooner than you think.

How Will it Change Things?

As manufacturing speed increases, 3D printers could change the way many businesses operate. Instead of going to the toy store with your kids to pick out a toy, you might go to the mall and look through a book of digital models of toys which are then created right in front of your eyes. It doesn’t stop there though, as customization of just about anything will become the norm. You could design your next car exactly to your specifications, so it fits your body type and the body types of your family.

Many analysts predict that 3D printing will create an entire new market. In a few years, there may be companies completely dedicated to 3D printing innovation in order to create new products and new services. The possibilities are basically endless, and it’s going to be exciting to see what comes.

Everyone experiences stress, and in varying amounts and levels.  From momentary pings of angst that result from road-rage to your favorite team losing the game, to more ongoing afflictions such as an overbearing boss or problems with your children, stress takes its toll on the body. Knowing to what extent your stress is affecting your body will enable you and your doctor to take preventative actions to protect your health. Taking a cortisol saliva test is the ideal way to gauge just how strong a presence stress is to the physical body.

How the Test Works

Cortisol is a hormone that is secreted by the adrenal glands. It is responsible for many functioning’s of the human body, including the regulation of blood pressure, insulin release, glucose metabolism, immune function and inflammatory response. It has been dubbed the “stress hormone” because it is released into the blood stream when people become stressed.  Cortisol is a bit like wine: too much is a bad thing, but in small amounts it has benefits. Small increases of cortisol provide people with quick bursts of energy, as well as heightened memory function. Also, it increases the immune system, helps maintain homeostasis in the body, and lowers one’s sensitivity to pain.  The test measures cortisol levels, and will let you know how susceptible you are to associated complications that arrive from stress.

Total Convenience 

What with our busy lives, taking time out to see the doctor is inconvenient, as it takes away time from our work and family. When considering a cortisol saliva test, opting for a kit that is mailed to your address is a real-time saver, and in many cases saves you money too (those lab fees can be outrageous). Furthermore, most health insurance policies don’t cover cortisol tests. The kit is extremely easy to use. Once it arrives to your home, simply follow the easy specimen collection instructions, and mail the sample back in the return envelope that will be provided. Once the lab receives the specimen, results are usually available in a week, and are e-mailed to the customer.

Live Life Longer

High levels of cortisol are responsible for sending people to an early grave. In a report by ABC News, the journalist examines how stress is affecting the lifespan of women. High levels of cortisol increase a woman’s risk for developing diabetes, heart disease, bone thinning, cognitive impairment, depression, obesity and fatigue. Knowing where your body stands against its cortisol levels will help the stressed person take preventative action, and such knowledge will enable them to safeguard their health.

Don’t Stress It

Do your body a favor, and give yourself some peace of mind. Order a cortisol saliva test and use the results to develop a game plan to ensure you are in good health, and that you will be around to enjoy those great things in life without the looming shadow of health-threats clouding your good time. Don’t stress it, the test is simple, and knowing where you and your stress stand, will empower you to take control of the situation.

Every year, Holiday gifts demand more and more in the class of technology. Although, with more gadgets, comes more cash to shell out. Here are my top tech gifts under $100, which will hopefully help you avoid breaking the bank.

Amazon Kindle: Starting at $69

Amazon has been dominating the E-reader market for some time. Now you can purchase a Kindle starting at only $69, connecting everyone in the family to the world of eBooks. Skimping on price most certainly does not mean a skimp on features. The Kindle has an electronic ink screen, making it easy to read even in bright sunlight. It also has built-in Wi-Fi, holds over 1,000 books, and the battery lasts up to a month on a single charge! With over a million books less than $9.99, you’ll never run out of things to read.

Apple TV: $99

Everyday more content is moving towards streaming over the web, so you’re going to need something to stream all those movies, music playlists, and whatever else you see fit to type in the search bar of YouTube. The Apple TV plugs into your television via HDMI cable, connects to your Wi-Fi and streams as much content as you desire. Streaming services include iTunes, Netflix, Hulu Plus, MLB.tv, Wall Street Journal Live and a host of others.

Klipsch Image S4 In-Ear Headphones: $79.99

It’s difficult to find in-ear headphones that offer quality sound and that don’t cost an arm and a leg. The Klipsch Image S4 does a very respectable job of combining smooth superior bass, noise-isolating design, and comfortable fit in a very small package. These headphones have stood the test of time, being around since 2009 (which is fairly long by tech standards) and are still a favorite of many. Offered in black or white, these headphones are perfect for the minimalist audiophile in your life.

The Mohu Leaf Indoor HDTV Antenna: Starting at $39.99

These days it’s pretty easy to stream television shows that could once only be viewed via network programming. Unfortunately, without a paid cable or satellite connection, many can’t even pick up enough reception for major local channels. The Mohu Leaf is a paper-thin High Definition TV Antenna that can work approximately 35 miles from a transmission tower.

Fitbit Zip Wireless Activity Tracker: $59.95

The Fitbit Zip might be the simplest way to track and sync your steps. A cutting-edge accelerometer makes this no ordinary pedometer. The Zip syncs wirelessly with your computer and also with your smartphone through Bluetooth. You can even stay motivated with achievements, badges and challenges from your friends. New Years Resolution anyone?

Logitech Washable Keyboard K310: $39.99

We all know someone who, no matter how hard they try, just can’t keep their computer keyboard clean. Or maybe you work in an environment where breakfast, lunch and dinner are all enjoyed in front of the company of your trusty computer. Whatever the case may be, the Logitech Washable Keyboard can take everything from a delicate dusting to a downright drenching. This keyboard is submergible and has drainage ports for easy cleanup. Laser printed keys and a UV coating means you won’t have to worry about letters fading away.

Mushroom GreenZero Wall Travel Charger: $27.95

It’s something you never think of, yet an item you need almost everyday. Without a charger, most of our electronic devices would be nothing but expensive paperweights.

The Mushroom GreenZero charges any smartphone with a USB cable. What makes this charger special is that when your device is done charging, the GreenZero turns off, avoiding overcharging your device and wasteful standby consumption.

HMDX Jam Bluetooth Wireless Speaker: $49.99

This small yet powerful speaker is made by the power-brand Homedics. Providing extraordinary sound with a very tiny footprint, this speaker is ideal for anyone who loves to turn the music up. Bluetooth devices connect wirelessly up to 30 feet away and it stays connected up to 4 hours between charges. This speaker also has an Aux-in port to connect right to your device, which allows for 12 hours of play, letting the party last all night long.

Logitech Harmony 650 Remote: $79.99

Sometimes remotes tend to control us more than the other way around. The Harmony 650 takes the power back and combines it into one streamline universal remote that is easy enough for anyone to use. This one gadget replaces up to 5 remotes, supports more than 5000 brands and has an easy-to-read color screen providing assistance when you require it. Also, with live costumer support, there will never be any confusion as to which button does what.

Coffee Cup Inverter with USB Charging Port and Two Outlets By Powerline: $34.99

Sometimes we need things charged but we don’t have car chargers for all our devices. The Coffee Cup Inverter by Powerline solves that problem in one fell swoop. Place this coffee cup look-alike in your cup holder and then plug it into your car’s cigarette lighter socket. The “coffee cup” has 2 AC plugs and 1 USB power port that are perfect for charging and powering cell phones, mp3 players, portable DVD players and much more. Great for the traveler on your list.

If you’ve got a musician on your holiday list this year, you need to find him or her something better than an iTunes gift card. Chances are they likely Download music @ www.kazagold.com anyways, so gift cards to websites that let you download music are likely a waste. There are lots of unique things you can get for this person without breaking the bank by spending hundreds on a new guitar or stereo system. It’s very easy to find cool gifts that he or she is guaranteed to love, no matter what kind of instrument it is that he or she plays. Check out this list of cool ideas that the music lover on your list is sure to love.

Pick Puncher

This is by far one of the coolest gadgets you can get a guitar player, and the gift recipient will absolutely go crazy over it and be the envy of all his or her band mates. The pick puncher allows you to create guitar picks out of any sort of thick material, from old credit cards to pieces of plastic wrapping. Simply place the material into the pick puncher, press down and you’ve got a guitar pick. Think guitar pick shaped hole-puncher. The pick puncher is perfect for guitar bags, because somehow guitar picks go missing way too often.

Sheet Music

If you know the kind of music that the musician on your list is into, consider gifting him or her some sheet music. Musicians love receiving sheet music, and many have huge collections. Sheet music is very inexpensive and cheap to ship, making it a very affordable gift for somebody on a budget. If you know your musician’s favorite artist or album, find some sheet music of it. It’s a unique gift that will be much appreciated by the receiving musician!

Headphones

Any musician appreciates a nice pair of headphones. Headphones can get pricey, but finding a nice pair that fits your budget shouldn’t be hard if you search online for a bit. This could be especially useful if the musician on your list lives in your home, because he or she can plug them in to an amplifier to keep practice sessions a little bit quieter. Opt for full over the ear headphones rather than ear buds, as the overall sound quality tends to be much better. Test out a few different headphones before you settle on one that you think your musician will like.

Recording Software

If the musician on your list is big into recording their music, gifting some recording software can be a creative present that he or she will definitely enjoy and use a lot. Depending on the equipment that your musician has, a copy of good recording software can turn their music practice room into a recording studio. Software sometimes can get kind of expensive, so make sure it’s something that the musician on your list would use before you opt to purchase it.

This day and age poses many challenges for children to develop into healthy, confident people. What with the cultural obsession of the video gaming world, both parents having to work jobs in a downed economy, school bullying at all new highs, and the rising rate of childhood obesity, your child is either a statistic in one of these categories, or goes to school with other children who face some of these challenges. So what is a parent to do? After all, you have a job to go to, and your child’s school doesn’t have the funds to invest in programs to address these growing concerns. One of the best investments you can make in your child’s life is to enroll them in kids gym classes where trained professionals not only address these concerns, but also help your child grow as a strong, confident and healthy leader in a fun and safe environment.

Confident and Positive Little People 

The best children’s gyms out there offer a wide variety of activities to keep your little one active and entertained. The benefits to such places are becoming highlighted in parenting publications, and are gaining more attention in the news. In an article published by The Huffington Post, the author writes how movement-based science is implemented in a way that fosters self-expression, playfulness, and good health for growing bodies. The author also addresses how many of the activities, such as martial arts and dancing, arm children with self-esteem and skills that they can carry over into adulthood.

Four Considerations for Parents 

As adolescent health and fitness is a growing concern, kid’s gyms are popping up in almost every city, and as a parent you have many to choose from. Here is some advice to help you make the right choice for your child. (1) Look for a gym that offers a free introductory class. Any gym that tries to lock you into a contract or take your money before actually EARNING your business should raise concerns. A good quality gym that has nothing to hide should always have open doors and welcome kids to try it out and test the water. (2) What is the gym’s mission statement? Too many times a gym will sprout up and boast, “We take the wimp factor out of any kid”. Although these gyms have good intensions, they will sometimes encourage the belief that if you aren’t number one, you aren’t a winner. They focus on making little mini Chuck Norris or Lara Crofts out of kids. The better alternative is to find a gym that uses multiple approaches to building skill, character, and health development in a way that brings out the star in each and every individual child, and celebrates those differences. Some gyms even use holistic methods into their structure. But a good gym will always promote the children as a valuable team unit, while celebrating their unique differences. (3) Diversity. Look for a gym that has multiple activities and programs that are geared towards numerous age groups, and that fit the needs of specific developmental stages. After all, a 4 year-old can’t do the same activities a 10 year-old can. (4) Instructors. Experienced instructors who have the proper training to oversee the physical and emotional health of your children, while nurturing them along the way, are vital in order for your child to have the best experience. Entrusting your child to a former personal trainer from Gold’s Gym, or some surf instructor who digs little kids, is not a wise decision, even if the individuals have the best intentions and mean well. When you prospect kid’s gyms, be sure to ask what qualifications and training the staff members have.

Your Child’s Adventure 

When following the tips listed above, you will have a better idea as to what gym will best be able to work with your child in providing him/her with an exciting outlet to be creative, embrace good health, gain confidence and leadership skills, and make new friends. An interactive gym for kids is a wonderful resource, especially given today’s social challenges that were not as common as when we ourselves were children. Take your child to the gym for a visit, and take some time to ask other parents on site for their opinions. In no time you will see that such an establishment will arm your child with the skills to make them successful, confident, creative and happy people.

Google announced that today at 12 p.m. PST, or 3 p.m. EST, Google will once again have more stock of the Nexus 4 on sale at Google Play. Earlier this month, new inventory was sold out within hours, followed by a sellout of Nexus 4 for T-Mobile, followed by complaints across internet about lack of availability.

Nexus 4 is the Google-branded Android phone, which assures you will run the latest version of Android, now 4.2 Jelly Bean. Jelly Bean features Google Now context searching, improved voice recognition, and improved NFC (where two NFC do a bump together and share data). A new 4.2.1 Jelly is rolling out beginning today as well.

Nexus 4 popularity comes in part because it is “unlocked”. Meaning you are free to choose from among multiple compatible services for voice and data without being locked into the typical two-year contracts required by telecomm giants like T-Mobile, Sprint, Verizon, etc. Rather you might use a service such as Straight Talk.

LampsUSA.com, a one-stop online portal for home furnishing and lighting fixtures, has announced the launch of its latest product, a stand-up desk that enables users to work in a standing position. This new desk dubbed the “Speedy Stand” enables users to avoid several health hazards caused by sitting in the same position for long periods of time.

Research shows that sitting for long causes several health hazards, such as obesity and metabolic syndrome, heart disease, diabetes, and even cancer. A recent study revealed that adults who sit in front of the television or computer for more than four hours a day are 125% more likely to be affected by cardiovascular diseases than those who spend less than two hours of screen time

Portable and lightweight, the new device can be converted from a sit-down desk to a stand-up desk very quickly. It comes with wood grained, dark red cocoa finish, Golden Beech or Black finishes. The 12-inch high Regular Speedy Stand, enables people to work in a standing position. The stand-up desk weighs 19 lbs, and has a weight capacity of 15 lbs.

According to LampsUSA.com, regular use of this stand-up desk will benefit users with improved blood circulation, increased energy, better productivity, increased brain power, strengthened muscles, and less pain. The new product will be very useful for professionals, students, back pain sufferers, love handle wearers, poor leg circulation sufferers, and lethargic or distracted workers. LampsUSA.com is currently offering 46 percent discount on the original price of the product.

When asked about the purpose behind introducing this new product, inventor Steve Brielmaier said, “Customers love our stand up solution because they can switch from sitting to standing in seconds. Rotating during the day is critical. Most people know that standing is healthier, but really don’t want to stand up all day long.”

See the entire line at http://www.lampsusa.com/Stand_Up_Desks.aspx

About LampsUSA.com: The online portal has been selling quality lighting and home furnishings since 1998. They offer best quality lights from the big brands of America, such as Murray Feiss, Quorum, Laura Ashley, Dale Tiffany, and Lite Source. There is a huge discount on most products, and free shipping for purchases of over $79. Impeccable customer service has earned the company a 99.9% eBay rating and a 4.8 out of 5 star rating on Google. The company offers a 120% low price guarantee, secure Socket Layer (SSL) security, and legendary customer service. Visit LampsUSA.com – Steve Brielmaier

Paleontologists in Morocco have discovered  the remains of a brand new  40-foot predator with a massive eye-socket; so what’s the only reasonable name to give the beast? Why, Sauron of course — after the evil and all knowing eye from the Lord of the Rings universe.

“The idea of a predator that is physically known only as its fierce eye reminded me of Sauron, in particular as depicted in Peter Jackson’s movies,” study leader Andrea Cau told National Geographic. ”The skull bone of Sauroniops is very broad and particularly thick. This suggests an animal as big as Tyrannosaurus [rex].”

The team believes that the Sauroniops was an aggressive predator and used a giant lump on its head for headbutting prey and others.

That reminds me, anyone excited for the Hobbit?

Any major consumer product has several tiers of expenses when it comes to making a purchase. In the lower end, you find the starter kits, the everyday use items for casual folks. In the middle you tend to find the slightly more advanced peripherals at a higher cost than would only attract only those who know what they are looking for. Finally, at the top, you have the elite set of products. This spot is reserved for those that are not afraid of a price tag, those who seek that absolute best out of a product. This is for the Ferrari’s and the Gucci’s. This is for those people who will drop 200 dollars on a collector’s box set of their favorite TV show. In the world of gaming headphones, Astro falls in this category.

Their newest model, the Astro A50’s features a departure for the highly praised manufacturer. Rather than attaching a wired pair of headphones to their powerful mix amp, Astro has breached into the realm of wireless and provided the best sound quality available on the market, wire or not.
The minimal set up only requires a single USB to be plugged into the computer and some light finicking with your settings to get the headphones going. For the consoles, a fiber optic cable is included that can provide 7.1 Dolby Digital surround sound. If your PC soundcard supports this feature the A50’s will gladly adapt. While the stereo mix is fantastic, the real meat and potatoes lies in the Dolby surround. If you have the hardware, you are not going to regret your purchase.

I think I reached a new level of enlightenment when I played Battlefield 3 with these bad boys. Bullet wizzes made me flinch, firing my own weapon left my ears ringing, and the bass caused by a nearby explosion did things to me that will only be described with an attorney present. Aural nirvana is not limited to the warzone though. Firing up the engine of a super sports car, dunking a basketball with Blake Giffin, or even breaking a zombie’s skull has a new layer of enjoyment when using the A50’s. If you thought the $60 gaming headphones you bought sounded great, prepare to be blown away. Unfortunately, the same cannot be said about watching movies or listening to music. While the audio package is still above average, the bass is much too strong for dialogue scenes and better sound can be found in more affordable music specific headphones.
When it comes to comfort, both of the ear cups and the headband up top are covered in extra soft cushioning which would not seem out of place in a really nice sweater. While lint and hair might get stuck to the cups, the fact that you can play for hours without even noticing the headphones speaks volumes. The memory foam at the top can take a few days to adjust, and the weight is not particularly minimal, but once they are broken in they are as comfortable as a pillow. Furthermore, the roughly 25 foot range ensures that you can walk around the room, go to the fridge, or even lay down in your bed without interrupting the sound. I actually caught myself trying to take them off to get up before realizing I could walk around freely. If you have not gone wireless before, this is the way to do it.

To top it off, the A50’s are very smartly designed. The right ear cup has two buttons that adjust the balance between voice chat and game volume and a little beep that lets you know when it is fully balanced. The excellent microphone will also mute when flipped up and the oversized rubber volume control makes it really easy to adjust the sound to your liking. As a side note, the headphones feel sturdy and while you won’t be throwing them into your closet when not in use, you can tell they will last for years.

The biggest turnoff for most buyers, however, will be the price. At a suggested retail of $299, they will break the bank and are likely to be about half a month’s rent for the average college student. Also, they are not particularly portable, and Astro ensures you keep them close with the included stand. This is kind of like complaining that your Ferrari can’t be driven to work though, so it is understood where the design choice came in.
Blast Factor: The A50’s are a high end product, and they are not afraid to show it off. The brutal sound quality will leave any sort of competition in the dust, especially when it comes to gaming. While the price is high for the average consumer, those who wish to splurge will not be disappointed. Games have never sounded more beautiful.

Every time I get a new electronic device, one of the first things I do is apply a screen protector on it to keep scratches off its shiny surface. Of course, anyone who has had to do this knows how troublesome the whole process can actually be. Not only do you need to make sure there’s no dust on the device, but you then need to worry about those pesky air bubbles that somehow always manage to appear after you apply the protective film. It’s a hassle putting them on, for many like me who want to keep their devices free from marks, doing so is a requirement.

For anyone who suffers from having too many shiny devices, I mean, who doesn’t these days, the folks at Dynaflo have made the task of protecting them a little less annoying. As its name implies, their unique Liquid-Armor promises the same level of protection as traditional screen guards but in the form of a liquid formula you simply spray to apply.

To test out how good the spray worked, I found my old iPhone 3GS and used it as a guinea pig. After spraying my device and evenly coating its surface with the cleaning cloth, I let it sit overnight before using it. The instructions say to wait at least 10 minutes before using, but to really test out the product, I gave it a full day. The screen did feel rougher, letting you know there was something on its surface, but as the solution is clear, the screen looked as if nothing was on it. Plus, the touchscreen still felt as responsive as before, so the added layer didn’t obstruct its sensitivity. I then grabbed a key and started scratching the screen, hoping it wouldn’t leave any marks behind. And it didn’t!

Dynaflo Liquid-Armor is available to purchase at Walmart, Target, and online for $24.99.

The European Space Agency (ESA) has announced the discovery of a brand new planet that’s roughly the same mass as Earth located within Alpha Centauri,  the solar system closest to our own. With Alpha Centauri only 4.3 light years away, the discovery is an exciting one.

The ESA reports:

European astronomers have discovered a planet with about the mass of the Earth orbiting a star in the Alpha Centauri system – the nearest to Earth. It is also the lightest exoplanet ever discovered around a star like the Sun. The planet was detected using the HARPS instrument on the 3.6-metre telescope at ESO’s La Silla Observatory in Chile. The results will appear online in the journal Nature on 17 October 2012.

Alpha Centauri is one of the brightest stars in the southern skies and is the nearest stellar system to our Solar System – only 4.3 light-years away. It is actually a triple star – a system consisting of two stars similar to the Sun orbiting close to each other, designated Alpha Centauri A and B, and a more distant and faint red component known as Proxima Centauri. Since the nineteenth century astronomers have speculated about planets orbiting these bodies, the closest possible abodes for life beyond the Solar System, but searches of increasing precision had revealed nothing. Until now.

So what’s next? According to The Washington Post’s Brian Vastag, SETI will begin to scan for radio signals in hopes of finding intelligent life.

You know that feeling you get when you’re really having a bad day? That feeling like the whole world is against you and there must be some greater power getting some sort of sick satisfaction on your pain? You may be on to something.

Physicists apparently have evidence that the universe — meaning everything you know and love, is part of a computer simulation.

Maybe we should boil this down a bit. Apparently physicists have created a computer simulation and it reportedly looks..well, it looks just like us.  This relates back to a long debated theory that any civilization worth its salt and with the right technology would eventually create a computer simulation of itself…like we just did. And of course over time those simulations would eventually grow capable of creating simulations of their own. In the broadest of terms — with all of those simulations out there, the odds of us being the original are quite slim.

This is all discussed in a a paper named ‘Constraints on the Universe as a Numerical Simulation’ by a team of researchers at the University of Bonn in Germany led by Silas Beane, which appears to lend credibility to this theory. The paper details that a simulation would put limits on certain aspects of its own program. Think that saves us? Think again.  The paper goes into detail about just how our own society puts plenty of limits on our society and that these limits practically mirror what a simulation would do.

Let that sink in for a bit.

Much to no one’s surprise, today Apple announced the next generation in its line of telephones, aptly named, the iPhone 5.

The iPhone 5 is 20% lighter and 18% thinner than the iPhone 4. In fact, Apple claims it is the thinnest phone you’ve ever seen. It is made out of glass and aluminum and comes in black and white. It also runs on an A6 processor, which makes it twice as fast as its predecessor.

Its front-facing camera is now 720p, and Facetime no longer requires wi-fi access. The phone’s normal camera is 8 megapixels and comes with a a new dynamic low-light mode with image capturing speeds now 40% faster. Three microphones are now built into the phone improving its voice recognition and noise cancellation.

Siri has also received an update and can now post status updates to Facebook and search for sports score updates.

Pre-orders for the phone begin September 14 and it ships on September 21. 16 GB models are available for $199, 32GB for $299, and 64GB for $399. Question is: will you be upgrading?

With less than 5 percent of world population, the U.S. uses a third of the world’s paper, a quarter of the oil, coal and aluminum, and 19 percent of the copper. The U.S. ranks highest by a considerable margin in most consumer categories as well

It is well known that Americans consume far more natural resources and live much less sustainably than people from any other large country of the world. “A child born in the United States will create thirteen times as much ecological damage over the course of his or her lifetime than a child born in Brazil,” reports the Sierra Club’s Dave Tilford, adding that the average American will drain as many resources as 35 natives of India and consume 53 times more goods and services than someone from China.

Tilford cites a litany of sobering statistics showing just how profligate Americans have been in using and abusing natural resources. For example, between 1900 and 1989 U.S. population tripled while its use of raw materials grew by a factor of 17. “With less than 5 percent of world population, the U.S. uses one-third of the world’s paper, a quarter of the world’s oil, 23 percent of the coal, 27 percent of the aluminum, and 19 percent of the copper,” he reports. “Our per capita use of energy, metals, minerals, forest products, fish, grains, meat, and even fresh water dwarfs that of people living in the developing world.”

He adds that the U.S. ranks highest in most consumer categories by a considerable margin, even among industrial nations. To wit, American fossil fuel consumption is double that of the average resident of Great Britain and two and a half times that of the average Japanese. Meanwhile, Americans account for only five percent of the world’s population but create half of the globe’s solid waste.

Americans’ love of the private automobile constitutes a large part of their poor ranking. The National Geographic Society’s annual Greendex analysis of global consumption habits finds that Americans are least likely of all people to use public transportation—only seven percent make use of transit options for daily commuting. Likewise, only one in three Americans walks or bikes to their destinations, as opposed to three-quarters of Chinese. While China is becoming the world’s leader in total consumption of some commodities (coal, copper, etc.), the U.S. remains the per capita consumption leader for most resources.

Overall, National Geographic’s Greendex found that American consumers rank last of 17 countries surveyed in regard to sustainable behavior. Furthermore, the study found that U.S. consumers are among the least likely to feel guilty about the impact they have on the environment, yet they are near to top of the list in believing that individual choices could make a difference.

Paradoxically, those with the lightest environmental footprint are also the most likely to feel both guilty and disempowered. “In what may be a major disconnect between perception and behavior, the study also shows that consumers who feel the guiltiest about their impact—those in China, India and Brazil—actually lead the pack in sustainable consumer choices,” says National Geographic’s Terry Garcia, who coordinates the annual Greendex study. “That’s despite Chinese and Indian consumers also being among the least confident that individual action can help the environment.”

Readers can discover how they stack up by taking a survey on National Geographic’s Greendex website. But brace yourself if you are a typical American: You might not like what you find out about yourself.

CONTACTS: Sierra Club’s “Sustainable Consumption,” www.sierraclub.org/sustainable_consumption; National Geographic Society’s Greendex, www.nationalgeographic.com/greendex.

Whether you are fresh out of college or an older individual looking to rejoin the workforce, the bottom line is that tech skills, specifically knowing your way around a computer, are essential in today’s world.

But what about the individual who is either without those skills or reluctant to go about getting them. Can they survive in today’s world and make a decent living at that?

As many individuals have found out since the first days of the Internet and its rapid growth ever since, not having usable computer skills can severely limit what job opportunities are out there. In fact, it can make even looking for a job difficult, given many companies today are using the web to hire talent. Finally, knowing how to surf the Internet to view your online reputation can show you what potential employers may be learning about you.

So, what if you are one of these individuals that needs assistance when it comes to finding the necessary tech skills that will help you progress in today’s Internet age?

Some of the things you should do to enhance your position include:

• Know the basics – You do not need to be a wiz at every computer program out there to get work today, but you do need some basic online skills to make it. If you have always been reluctant to or have not been in a job that required such skills up to now, by all means take a computer course, find a family member or friend to mentor you, or do it on your own online with the different educational tools available. The bottom line is most jobs will require you to at least be able to know how to send email, use programs like Microsoft Word, surf social media, and potentially handle online budget and banking matters
• Take it a step further – If you can learn how to do the simple tasks like send and open emails, use MS Word to put together documents, visit and understand social media sites, you are off to a good start. The next step is to get a grasp of things like Excel spreadsheets, QuickBooks, compile and make online presentations, or know an in-house organizational program such as Basecamp. Again, take things a step at a time so you do not become frustrated and tempted to say the heck with the computer
• Be motivated to learn new things – Even though not having some basic computer skills can certainly work against you in today’s technologically-driven world, being motivated to learn such tasks can make up in some degree for the lack of skills. Always be up front with a potential employer so that they know what they are dealing with you. If you do not have all the computer skills they need, however you show a desire to learn them, you could surprise yourself and get the job after all. Motivation and the desire to succeed go a long way in today’s job market

As was mentioned earlier, social media plays a major role in today’s world, both for companies to promote their brand and looking to hire new talent.

If you are someone looking for a job, knowing your way around the social media world is critical.

For instance, do you have a LinkedIn page? Are you knowledgeable when it comes to Facebook and Twitter? Do you even know what Google+ is?

LinkedIn is all but essential in this day and age, especially for those searching for work. Without an up to date LinkedIn page, you are depriving yourself of making a ton of connections, and putting yourself out there for potential employers to see.

With Facebook and Twitter, more and more businesses are using the two largest social media venues to post job advertisements, meaning you’d better be able to know where and what to look for.

Lastly, the computer skills you need in the workplace can actually be put to good use elsewhere too.

For instance, suppose you need the basic computer skills for a simple office job, then take those skills and turn them into some work on the side as a freelance writer, moderator of social forums and more?

Another scenario is that you may be the only one in a small office who has a leg up on your co-workers when it comes to putting Excel spreadsheets, promoting the company brand on social media venues, and surfing the Internet to see what good and bad things are being said about the company.

When all is said and done, just having essential computer skills in today’s technological world can make the difference between getting that job and being left on the outside looking in.

Are you willing to take that chance?

Biofuels (or agrofuels) can be a carbon-neutral energy source, but the overall process of producing them is far from carbon neutral, given the substantial amount of fossil fuels expended in growing, harvesting, processing and distributing them. (Hemera Collection)

Plants take in and store carbon dioxide (CO2) during the process of photosynthesis. When plants die, whether through natural causes or when humans harvest them, this stored CO2 is released back into the atmosphere in an age-old cycle that doesn’t contribute any additional greenhouse gas into the system. But when we extract and burn oil and other fossil fuels, we are taking CO2 that would have otherwise remained locked up deep below the Earth’s surface and releasing it into the atmosphere, essentially overloading the planet’s carbon balance and leading to more global warming.

But as things stand today, the overall process of producing agrofuels is far from carbon neutral, given the fossil fuels expended in growing, harvesting and processing the crops (petroleum-based fertilizers and pesticides, diesel fuel to run tractors, etc…) and then distributing them (via carbon-spewing trucks, trains, ships and airplanes). Of course, growing such crops organically and processing and distributing them without fossil fuels would help close the gap between today’s reality and the dream of carbon-neutrality.

Another major hurdle for agrofuels is the fact that harvesting crops across millions of acres for fuel instead of for food would leave many hungry mouths to feed in the U.S. and elsewhere. Researchers are hoping to overcome this conundrum by generating agrofuels from less land- and input-intensive “crops” such as switchgrass, sugarcane, wood waste or even algae. The latter “feedstock” is especially promising because it can be grown in non-traditional agricultural settings including indoor labs and even on off-shore ocean platforms. But regardless of the wow factor, producing small quantities of fuel from such experimental crops costs hundreds times more than getting oil to gas pumps, so researchers have a long way to go before agrofuels made from these nouveau source crops can make inroads into the mainstream.

Given the issues with producing agrofuels domestically, suppliers are increasingly looking to source them abroad, essentially trading one set of foreign fuel producers for another. But according to Friends of the Earth International (FOEI), “Land grabbing by large companies and agro-businesses to the detriment of local livelihoods, forests and other ecosystems, with gross violations of human rights, have been witnessed in many countries where agrofuels are produced.” FOEI adds: “The production of agrofuels…is generating serious environmental damage and eroding the people’s ability to control the production, trade and consumption of food, given that more and more agricultural land is being devoted for energy crops.”

As recently as five years ago environmentalists were hailing agrofuels as a viable alternative to fossil fuels in the face of increased global warming and skyrocketing oil prices. But as the agrofuels industry starts to grow up, many are wondering whether or not pursuing such a baggage-laden alternative is really worth the trouble, especially in light of more promising developments in other sectors of the renewable fuels sector.

CONTACT: Friends of the Earth International, www.foei.org.

Most of us assume that all we need do to prevent sunburns and skin cancer from exposure to the sun is to slather on sunscreen. But consumers should be careful about which sunscreens they trust for themselves and, even more important, for their kids.

According to EWG, some researchers have detected an increased risk of melanoma skin cancer among sunscreen users. “No one knows the cause, but scientists speculate that sunscreen users stay out in the sun longer and absorb more radiation overall,” reports EWG. Scientists also suspect, says EWG, that free radicals, which get released as sunscreen chemicals break down in sunlight, may be playing a role.

Most sunscreens screen out some of the ultraviolet B (UVB) rays from the sun that lead to visible sun burns, but many do not protect against the potentially more damaging ultraviolet A (UVA) rays that penetrate deeper into the skin and may facilitate the development of skin cancer later on, regardless of how high a Sunburn Protection Factor (SPF) the sunscreen may have. Also, EWG warns that many common sunscreen ingredients generate free radicals that can damage the body’s DNA and skin cells, accelerating skin aging and potentially causing skin cancer in the process.

But just because some sunscreens can’t be trusted and overexposure to the sun is unhealthy doesn’t mean staying indoors all the time is a viable solution. Getting some sun is good for you, as the body converts it to Vitamin D, an essential nutrient that facilitates good health and prevents a wide range of diseases.

So what’s a sun lover to do? The International Agency for Research on Cancer (IARC) recommends wearing protective clothing, seeking shade, and timing outdoor play to avoid peak sun. IARC adds that sunscreen still has a place in our lives to augment these other sun exposure minimization tactics.

But which sunscreens do live up to EWG’s stringent standards? The major choice is between chemical sunscreens that break down quickly, penetrate deep into the skin and may disrupt the body’s hormone system, and mineral varieties that can contain potentially irritating and damaging nano-scale particles.

According to EWG, mineral sunscreens are the better choice, as they protect against both UVB and UVA rays, remain effective longer and don’t contain as many dangerous substances. Some leading mineral-based options come from Alba Botanica, Beyond Coastal, ECO Logical Skin Care, Karen’s Botanicals, Kiss My Face, Poofy Organics and Solar Sense, among others.

For those who don’t like mineral based sunscreens, which can be chalky and leave a white film until washed off, EWG recommends sunscreens with avobenzone (three percent for the best UVA protection) and without the notorious hormone disrupter oxybenzone. Some leading non-mineral choices are available from manufacturers including Bull Frog, Ocean Potion, Sunbow and Vichy.

CONTACTS: EWG’s Sunscreens 2012, breakingnews.ewg.org/2012sunscreen/; IARC, www.iarc.fr.

When it comes to scanning documents onto a computer, nothing beats a good old-fashioned flatbed scanner. The majority of printers on the market come with scanning and copying functionality, making it easy to scan documents whenever necessary.

But what happens if you need a scanner on the go? There are currently a few apps on the market that turn your smart phone into a scanner, but these don’t let you edit your scanned documents once you capture them. The new IRIScan Book 2 is a portable scanning device that is easy to take with you wherever you go and comes with enough specs and options that make it a handy device for both students and executives alike.

Right out of the box the IRIScan Book 2 comes ready to use. The sleek little device is only 10” long, 1-8” wide, and weighs about 2 lbs, making it easy to carry. It uses two AA batteries and saves your documents on a micro-SD card (both included). Additionally, the device also comes with a USB cable, giving you second option when uploading your files onto a computer.

Files can be scanned with 600 or 300 dpi resolution in color or black-and-white. The scanner also comes with a cleaning cloth, carrying pouch, and Readiris Pro 12, OCR software that lets users scan convert  PDF and image files into editable text.

The included Readiris Pro 12 software is an optional component to this device, but it’s quite handy when both are used together. For example, the device lets you share hand-written class notes by simply scanning them with the device and emailing the PDFs to friends, and the software lets you scan pages from library books and convert them to editable text for use in papers and outlines, saving you time and the burden of checking out books when all you really need are a few pages. This is why we think the IRIScan Book Pro 2 is a great device for students and academic professionals.

Easily snug in anyone’s bag or carrying case, the IRIScan Book 2 is a nifty device that provides quality and portability at a great value. While you are limited to scanning average-size documents, you may need to consider what you’ll be using your scanner for. If you’re a student going back to school or a traveling professional needing to make digital copies of your receipt and paperwork, the IRIScan Book 2 may be for you.

The IRIScan Book 2 is currently available for $99. There is also an Executive model available for $129 that features an integrated rechargeable battery and sends scans via Bluetooth to a smart phone, tablet, laptop or desktop. Purchase yours at the manufacturer’s website.

As technology continues to change users’ lives faster than most of them can keep up with, Google last month announced it was bringing its Google Fiber technology to Kansas City, Mo. and Kansas City, Kan.

The two cities were chosen from among more than 1,100 communities that had applied to receive Google Fiber, and are part of the Kansas City, Mo., metropolitan area, which encompasses 15 counties and has a population greater than 2 million.

With its latest offering to make a website faster, Google claims that Google Fiber is 100 times quicker than the average broadband on the market, noting users no longer have to worry about buffering, loading and waiting for service.

Google pointed out that Kansas City residents get to determine where Google Fiber is installed and when. The company has reportedly divided the area into small communities it tagged as “fiberhoods.”

In order to receive service, each fiberhood requires a critical mass of its residents to pre-register. Those fiberhoods with the largest  pre-registration percentage were slated to receive Google Fiber first. Once the pre-registration period is finished, residents of the qualified fiberhoods will be able to select between a trio of various packages (including TV).

According to Google, while high-speed technology exists, the average Internet speed in the U.S. is still only 5.8 megabits per second (Mbps) — not much quicker than the maximum speed available 16 years ago when residential broadband was first unveiled. The company added that access speeds have simply not kept up with the phenomenal gains in computing power and storage capacity that’s spurred innovation over the last decade.

Google Fiber’s top-of-the-line package is Gigabit +Google Fiber TV. In addition to 1 GB access speeds, subscribers will receive a TV package that provides hundreds of channels, including local favorites, and countless shows on demand, in HD TV. They will also obtain a Nexus 7 tablet that they can use as their remote control. In all, the package will cost $120 a month. For $70 a month, residents can just sign up to receive Internet connectivity.

On top of that Google is offering Internet with no monthly fee. However, to receive it you must pay a $300 construction or installation fee. There is no data cap on any of the plans, so customers will receive unlimited Internet access every month. The free option is guaranteed for at least seven years and includes the network box.

For small businesses interested in the product, it will take some time before that becomes an option.

According to Google, the company is focused for now on making residential connections, but will have an announcement regarding a small business offering soon.

Simply having the connection “will add value to homes and put our customers on the cutting edge of broadband technology,” a Google spokesperson commented. “And we’re offering these services at a competitive price.”

Competitive is the key wording there; look for other companies to try and up the ante on both residents and small businesses moving forward.

Time will tell, however, if Google can provide the necessary levels of service and overall experience that matter at the end of the day to the customer.

The Center for Biological Diversity found that the Endangered Species Act (ESA) had a very successful recovery rate, with some 90 percent of species recovering at the rate specified by their recovery plans. The recovery of the Yellowstone Grizzly Bear is considered to be an ESA success story.

While the very question of the The Endangered Species Act’s success or failure been a subject of debate already for decades, most environmental advocates are thankful such legislation is in place and proud of their government for upholding such high standards when it comes to preserving rare species of plants and animals.

That said, critics of the legislation make some solid points. For starters, only one percent of species (20 out of 2,000) under the protection of the Endangered Species Act (ESA) have recovered sufficiently to qualify for delisting. And the millions of dollars spent on often failed recovery efforts are difficult to justify, especially in these otherwise tough economic times.

But even though the vast majority of species protected under the ESA have not recovered doesn’t undermine the significance of those species—bald eagles, gray wolves, and grizzly bear to name a few—that have rebounded thanks to forward thinking legislation and wildlife management. Louisa Wilcox of the Natural Resources Defense Council is grateful to the ESA for the continued existence of grizzly bears in and around Yellowstone National Park. “After listing, the government cleaned up the massive garbage problems in Yellowstone Park, which reduced the habituation of bears to human foods—a pattern that often leads to grizzly deaths,” she reports. Commercial sheep herds were moved out of core grizzly habitat while hundreds of miles of roads on public lands in the region were closed to improve the iconic bears’ chances for survival. The result: The Yellowstone grizzly population more than doubled while human/bear interactions and incursions by hungry grizzlies onto local ranches have declined. “So, by any reckoning, the Yellowstone grizzly bear story is an ESA success,” concludes Wilcox.

To test whether or not the ESA has been effective on a grander scale, the Center for Biological Diversity (CBD), another leading green group, compared for its 2012 “On Time, On Target” report the actual recovery rate of 110 listed species with the projected recovery rate in their federal recovery plans. The 110 species occupy all 50 U.S. states, include all major taxonomic groups, and have various listing lengths.

CBD found that the ESA had “a remarkably successful recovery rate: 90 percent of species are recovering at the rate specified by their federal recovery plan,” adding: “On average, species recovered in 25 years, while their recovery plan predicted 23 years—a 91 percent timeliness accomplishment.”

CBD also confirmed the hypothesis that the majority of listed species have not enjoyed protection for long enough to warrant an expectation of recovery yet. “80 percent of species have not yet reached their expected recovery year,” reports CBD, adding that on average species have been listed for just 32 years, while their recovery plans required 46 years for success. This recent study’s findings echo the results of an earlier (2006) analysis in the Northeastern U.S. that found some 93 percent of federally listed species there were stabilized or improving since getting ESA protection and 82 percent were on track to meet recovery goals. “When judged in the light of meeting recovery plan timelines for recovery, the Endangered Species Act is remarkably successful,” says CBD. “Few laws of any kind can boast a 90 percent success rate.”

CONTACTS: CBD, www.biologicaldiversity.org; “On Time, On Target” Report, www.esasuccess.org.

Coincidentally as I write this review, I woke up this morning to a dead Apple Time Capsule, which was the drive that contained all my documents, pictures, music and so on. Thankfully I had everything backed up onto another drive and ran into no downtime or loss of files because I had such a strong backup strategy. This really stresses the importance of backing up and since hard drives contain moving magnetic parts, it’s only a matter of time until they fail. This was exactly the situation I ran into this morning with my dead drive and without a proper backup strategy, you can lose, months, years or even decades of important files. Whether it is your pictures, documents, music or files you might need for work, file loss can really send you for a loop when you lose everything. This is thus every reason why it is important to make sure you have the latest backup.

With that said, I have a review for you on a piece of software that can help you backup your files called GoodSync version 9.  So your probably asking what is GoodSync and what will it do for me? GoodSync 9 is a piece of backup software which allows for you to specify the files you want to backup and then choose the drive that you wish to back up to. Upon first sync, GoodSync will backup everything and then as you create more files that need to be backed up, it will look for new or changed files and backup only those files. This not only saves time and system resources, but it also puts less strain on your drives. Besides just backing up, GoodSync also allows you to sync documents and files between computers. Let’s say you are working on a Word Document on computer A and you save the document, get up and go over to computer B. When you arrive, the file will automatically be synced over that way you can continue working. Personally I prefer shared drives rather than syncing, but this is a nice feature I’m sure many of you will love to have.

Another great feature of GoodSync 9 is it allows you to schedule backups and save to online providers like Amazon S3, Microsoft SkyDrive and more. Scheduling backups are a very nice feature since it creates basically an automated solution allowing one to simply forget about backing up and let the program take care of it. Another great feature of GoodSync 9 is it allows you to backup your data onto other computers in your house. With this feature you can use drive space you already own, spread out the data among drives, and not have to worry about who could be potentially looking at your files or having to encrypt your data like many of us do who use online backup solutions. Plus the nice thing with GoodSync 9 is you actually get some of the benefits of cloud storage since they bundle in GoodSync explorer, which allows you to connect back to your computer from a remote location and grab a file that you might need. Keep in mind that to do this, each machine needs a GoodSync license at you are looking at about $30 per computer to enable this functionality.

I do feel, however, that a cloud backup is still needed even with GoodSync Connect because while the data might be across multiple computers, there is still the risk that a fire could come along and take all your computers with it and online backup can eliminate this risk.

In my tests with the program, I found GoodSync 9 to work as advertised and both the backup and the sync functions seemed to work great. I even used it across a network drive to see if it would give the program any trouble and still the application performed flawlessly. Next I tested GoodSync Connect, which is the feature that allows you to backup files across other machines in your home and again I found it performed really well. While GoodSync Connect isn’t breakthrough, since it’s basically file sharing, but what makes it nice is that it is very easy to configure and definitely nice for the average user wishing to backup without a lot of configuration

So that leaves me with the downfalls of this product and the number one con in my opinion would be the user interface—this interface really needs improvement. Things are scattered everywhere and because of the poor user interface, I expect the average user to potentially have some issues configuring this product. It definitely is not plug and play and nothing like Windows Backup or Apple’s Time Machine where with pretty much with a click of a few buttons, the backup is started and configured. Would I recommend GoodSync 9 to anyone? No. I would only recommend it to advanced users because you really have to know what you are doing because it is very powerful and with the wrong clicks, one could potentially destroy their data which may be their only copy. Another thing that should be improved was the configuration interface when trying to connect to online-based drives. This process was confusing and a configuration wizard would be a nice enhancement.

Overall for $30 this program is worth it if you are more of an advanced user, but if you are not tech savvy, be aware that you can really screw things up with this program because there are so many options and some are advanced. I recommend that you make a backup before using this backup program as oddly as that sounds. Also while the ability to use GoodSync Connect sounds wonderful, it can get quite expensive at $30 a license per machine to use this feature. Overall if you are an advanced user and are willing to get over the downfalls mentioned, the program works wonderfully and is a great backup solution. Otherwise, for average users or those who want more of a plug and play solution, I would avoid this piece of software because it is just to complex and the interface makes things way more complicated than it needs to be.

GoodSync 9 is available for both Windows and Macintosh operating systems and is priced at $29.95 per machine for Windows clients and $39.95 per machine for Macintosh clients. GoodSync 9 is available for purchase at http://goodsync.com