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A new procedure for developing liquid crystal displays (LCD) for portable computers eliminates the need to use glass in the screens, instead developing the displays on plastic sheets. This will create competition for the Japanese, who have nearly monopolized the entire LCD market. Scientists at the Massachusetts Institute of Technology's Media Lab are capable of creating three-dimensional moving images through the integration of computers with holograms. A University of Rochester researcher has developed an algorithm for increasing facsimile speed of halftone photo images. Nocopi International has developed invisible fax paper for security purposes. The paper must be passed through an inexpensive automatic developer in order for the image or words to become visible. CollegeLink enables high school students to electronically apply to four or more colleges simultaneously through a $29 software package. Dun & Bradstreet Corp and British Telecommunications Plc have developed a process that provides instant transmission of academic transcripts for transfer or graduate students.
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US government officials said they will appeal immediately a US judge's ruling that declared part of the 1996 Telecommunications Act unconstitutional. Federal Judge Joe Kendall struck down a key portion of the legislation which forbids Bells from selling long distance telephone services within their regions until they allow competition in their local monopolies. Kendall's ruling, from the US District Court in Wichita Falls, TX, could threaten the entire telecommunications industry, if upheld. Especially, AT&T's vast long-distance residential business could feel an impact if it competed with regional Bells. AT&T, lawmakers, administration officials and FCC Chmn William Kennard predicted a swift overturn of the order. SBC Communications, which initiated the suit, declared Kendall's ruling as a victory for consumers. The Bell said it will pursue the long-distance business market quickly, particularly the lucrative California market.
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AT&T receives less support than expected from NCR shareholders at the special meeting called for a vote on AT&T's takeover offer. Only 60 percent of stockholders support the bid, which stands at $90 per share. The price would have become $100 per share if AT&T had received 80 percent support, which was the figure required to oust the entire NCR board of directors. AT&T can still replace four directors, including NCR chairman Charles E. Exley Jr. NCR reduced their $125 price demand to $110 just prior to the meeting, but executives at AT&T maintain that is still too high. Indications are that both companies are now more willing to negotiate a friendly merger rather than a hostile takeover, as this would benefit AT&T greatly in terms of year-end accounting options and allow the company to increase its offer to NCR.
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