as told by others its because your code is not valid. first select from your database and then count() or mysql_num_row() and then echo that...
Sure php.net is good when you need to get the technical aspects of a function and need to learn how it works, but if you're just starting on php...
i can escpecially recommend the last one!
as told, use htaccess. this is a good resource: askapache.com/ htaccess/mod_rewrite-tips-and-tricks.html
exactly as Bogi says, so i would advise you to only use dots as it is easier instead of remembering which to use where ;)
i would say why not both? but the second sub niche should be the first i think, with so little competition why not try it ;)
Separate names with a comma.