And dark energy may turn out to be almost the mirror opposite of gravity - a repulsive rather than an attractive force, and one that strengthens with distance rather than weakening.

BBC: Getting the measure of dark energy

Long-distance pipelines, easily sabotaged, will prove attractive targets to Uighur guerillas.

ECONOMIST: Central Asia

So Qwest's best scenario may be a two-part play, breaking up its local and long-distance businesses and reducing debt along the way to make the remaining pieces more attractive.

FORBES: Call It Quits, Qwest