New Drug Might Kill All Viruses

Doctors may soon be able to prescribe a drug that kills all viruses, according to new research from MIT. DRACO is a novel broad-spectrum treatment that appears to cause virus-infected cells in the body to commit suicide, eventually killing (or at least controlling) the infection throughout the body.

A recent study found that DRACO effectively kills 15 different virus types in both human and animal cells, including polio, dengue fever, a stomach virus, various types of hemorrhagic fever (including the scary-deadly Ebola virus), the H1N1 "swine" flu virus, and even the common cold! According to Todd Rider, DRACO's inventor and a top researcher at MIT:

“In theory, it should work against all viruses."

Basically the new anti-viral drug works by telling an infected cell to kill itself before a virus can replicate inside of it. In effect it manipulates the cell's natural defense mechanisms in a way that wipes out a virus before it can produce many copies of itself.

The best news is that, according to experts, viruses may not be able to become resistant to the effects of DRACO the way they do to many other anti-viral compounds. There is simply no direct pathway to resistance because the drug really acts on the cell, not on the virus itself. Scientists are hoping DRACO will be the virus "cure-all" we've been waiting for for thousands of years!

Learn some mo': New drug could cure nearly any viral infection

Anti-Alzheimer's / Memory Booster Pill Might Be Coming Soon

Scientists may be on the verge of creating a drug that reverses Alzheimer's syndrome and dramatically boosts the memory. New research has identified a powerful gene in mice that gives them "super memory" powers and fights off the negative effects of several degenerative mental illnesses, including Alzheimer's.

Mice brains and human brains are surprisingly similar so some in the scientific community believe a drug could be developed based on harnessing the power of this brain-boosting super gene. Researchers found that it blocks the release of a another gene -- called PKR -- that triggers the beginning of Alzheimer's disease. Aside from protecting the brain it appears to greatly increase the memory recall abilities of mice.

 According to lead researcher Maura Costa-Mattioli:

 "If we were to find an inhibitor, a molecule, a drug that will specifically block PKR, we should be able to do the same [in humans]... And we did. We recognize that PKR plays a dual role, one in regulating simple everyday processes like the way neurons talk to each other [for] memory, but also has a stress response." 

 We say: It seems like by now they should have Alzheimer's cured or at least "contained". And we would LOVE a pharmaceutical memory booster that really works. So get it done science geeks!!

Learn some mo': Could this be the cure for Alzheimer's? Scientists say memory-boosting pill could be coming soon

Analyst: iPad 3 Release Date Will Be February 2012

People have a lot of questions about the upcoming iPad 3 from Apple. The biggest are: "Should I wait for it? When is the release date? How much better is it compared to the iPad 2?" Now we may have an answer to one of those queries.

There were rumors that it would be available for Christmas 2011 but that obviously is not the case. Then some "insiders" were predicting a March or April 2012 release date. Now Citi analyst Richard Gardner says he knows when the iPad 3 will really be available: February 2012.

In a report filed today he claimed several inside sources have indicated that Apple will launch the 3rd generation iPad sometime in the month of February. Technology-related glitches may have delayed the release of the new tablet but, according to Gardner:

"There do not appear to be any significant technical hurdles remaining [to releasing the iPad 3]."

Apple usually releases new versions of popular products one year apart. But they do occasionally shorten the time frame, as would be the case if the release date is in February (the iPad 2 was release in March of 2011). Apple is currently dominating the tablet computer market but is seeing strong new competition from the Amazon Kindle Fire and other new Android-based tablets like the Asus Eee Pad Transformer Prime. They may be anxious to get their best product on the market ASAP.

We say: The best thing about a new iPad being released is that the older version iPads will be available at a deep discount. Cheaper tabs make us happy!

Learn some mo': iPad 3 is Coming in February

Blowfish Hangover Pill: The Next Big Thing?

A new FDA-approved hangover "cure" has hit the market and some think it could be a bestseller for 2012. It's called "Blowfish" and it's basically an alka seltzer with big doses of caffeine, aspirin, and a "stomach-soothing" antacid formula designed to reduce hangover-related discomfort. The supplement is taken the morning after a night of drinking and it claims to be able to remedy a severe hangover within 30 minutes.

The people behind Blowfish say it's the perfect solution for dealing with crazy happy hours and out-of-control holiday parties. According to its creator: "This gets you functioning again quickly!"

A dose of Blowfish currently costs about 3 dollars. 6-packs can be had for about 12 bucks. Some experts say that, if it really works, it could catch on the way energy drink did and sell millions of units within just the first year.

We say: Sound cool but why wouldn't we just drink a Rockstar, take a couple big aspirins, and pop a couple of Tums like we normally do after a long night on Fremont Street??

 Learn some mo': Hangover pill approved by FDA

Adipotide: A "Dream" Drug for Fast Weight Loss?

Adipotide is a relatively simple drug that may become the "dream" solution for fast weight loss in overweight people. It was created as a novel cancer treatment but, while it was being tested, researchers found that it causes rapid fat loss and even improves metabolic function -- at least in mice and monkeys -- without diet or exercise changes. The good news is that drugs that work in primates usually have similar effects in humans.

The pharmaceutical industry has been desperately trying to find a new weight loss drug that works without a bunch of risky side effects. Experts are saying that adipotide may very well be that drug. It functions by killing the blood supply to adipose cells (aka bodyfat) and in turn reducing their number.

Overweight "couch potato" monkeys who received only about a month's worth of daily adipotide injections lost an average of 11 percent of their total body weight and nearly 40% of their bodyfat stores. That's a HUGE amount of weight and fat loss, especially in such a short time frame! The injections caused the monkeys to eat fewer calories and lose belly fat. They also underwent positive metabolic changes that may prevent Type 2 diabetes and other obesity-related health problems.

The researchers behind the unique chemical compound have already applied for FDA approval of human trials and expect them to begin within a year.

According to head researcher Wadih Arap:

"It is incredibly exciting, a dream coming true in slow motion."

We say: A drug that allows couch potatoes to lose 40% of their belly fat in a month without exercising or dieting... are you kidding us?? If this thing gets approved it'll sell about $100 billion in the first week!

Learn some mo': Drug helps monkeys lose weight, are humans next?

The Kindle Fire is the Best-Selling iPad Alternative

Sales of the new Kindle Fire tablet from Amazon are literally on fire, according to new retail statistics. New numbers from IHS iSuppli show that nearly 4 million Kindle Fires will ship during this quarter, making it the number 1 Google Android-based tablet and the number 2 selling tablet overall.

 The Apple iPad 2 still dominates the tablet market. But some experts are predicting that the Kindle Fire will emerge as the top iPad-alternative and steal a large percentage of Apple's market share over the next few quarters. The popular Samsung Galaxy Tab, another Android device, is more powerful than the "Fire" but it's also a lot more expensive... which is probably only 1.4 million are expected to sell his quarter.

 It's interesting to note that the original iPad only sold 3.3 million in its first quarter (Q3 2010) on the market. Kindle Fire sales will easily beat that. As we've already seen, consumers love cheap-but-powerful tablet computers. Plus the 7-inch Kindle Fire is significantly lighter, smaller, and more "portable" than the iPad, allowing it to be more of a go-anywhere content consumption/personal entertainment center device. The question analysts are already asking is this: could the Amazon Kindle Fire outsell the iPad in the near future? We'll just have to wait and see.

 We say: We got our hands on a Kindle Fire and we really like it. Just the right size and weight, plus it's great for watching movies/videos. The only serious problem so far: it doesn't allow you to download all the Android apps yet! What's up with that Amazon??

 Learn some mo': The Kindle Fire Is On Fire

The Type 2 Diabetes "Cure" Diet

Dutch scientists say they may have found a true type 2 diabetes "cure": the calorie restriction diet. They found that diabetes patients who followed a very low calorie (just 500 calories per day!) diet for four months dramatically improved their overall health, reducing dangerous "pericardial" fat and improving the function of their hearts.

Body mass index (BMI), one of the best measurements of overall body fat levels, fell greatly, from 35.3 to 27.5 on average. But probably the biggest surprise of the study was this: volunteers on the calorie-restricted diet were able to stop taking their daily insulin injections! According to study leader, Dr. Sebastiaan Hammer:

"It was very striking to us to see how a relatively simple intervention such as a very-low-calorie diet effectively cures type 2 diabetes mellitus."

We say: This is GREAT news for people who suffer from diabetes! Just basically starve yourself for a few months and you'll cure/treat yourself naturally. Or you could just stick to boring old balanced diet, regular exercise, and smart supplementation... but where's the fun in that??

Learn some mo': Calorie restriction cures diabetes? What study says

Hottest Kids Toy in 2011: Tablet Computers!

Forget flying radio-controlled fish and video game consoles -- the most in-demand kid's "toy" this year is the tablet computer! In fact, according to a new Nielsen research poll, the Apple iPad is the most-asked-for gift among children this holiday season. A whopping 44% of kids surveyed said they wanted an Ipad, up from just 30% last year.

The Consumer Electronics Association says that tablet devices are definitely the hottest gifts for the 2011 Christmas season. According to the CEA director of research Shawn DuBravac: 

 "Tablets, tablets, tablets and some more tablets on the side... Far and away, that will be the most popular item!" 

 He says that it's difficult to know for sure which of the many tablets on the market will end up being the true sales star in the US. The population is very diverse demographically. According to DuBravac:

"There’s going to be multiple tablets that will probably do well because there’s a large variation of consumers out there... They all want different things."

Many experts believe that younger children will be demanding the new LeapPad Explorer "learning tablet"... a device designed to help kids learn reading, writing, and math faster. Just don't tell them it's not really as cool as an iPad or Kindle Fire!

Learn some mo': Tablets are the new Cabbage Patch Kids

Another Reason Not to Eat Canned Food: Toxic Chemicals!

Eating a lot of canned food can skyrocket the level of a toxic chemical called bisphenol A (BPA) in your bloodstream, according to a new study from Harvard. That's bad because BPA is pretty nasty stuff that significantly hurts your overall health, especially over time.

Researchers found that people who eat a serving of canned soup every day had much higher BPA levels (about 20 times higher!) in their urine than people who eat fresh non-canned soup. That's because BPA is a by-product of a chemical used to prevent the corrosion of the can's metal, and it leaches into the food.

According to the study's head researcher Karin Michels:

"To see an increase in this magnitude was quite surprising... [the levels of BPA seen in the study participants] are among the most extreme reported in a nonoccupational setting."

We say: Just another reason to not eat canned foods. What sucks is that some of the best tomato products are canned, but these are among the worst because the tomatoes' acid leached out the BPA even faster!

Learn some mo': Soaring BPA Levels Found in People Who Eat Canned Foods

Green Tea Can Lower Bad Cholesterol

Drinking green tea or taking a green tea supplement can lower your "bad" cholesterol according to a new study. Researchers found that regular green tea consumption significantly reduced LDL cholesterol levels in patients. They tested both regular green tea and a supplement containing the phytonutrient catechins found in green tea.

The researchers found that drinking green tea was slightly more effective at lowering cholesterol than taking supplements. Experts say that a daily dose of green tea could be a good way to improve overall cholesterol numbers.

We say: This is just more evidence that green tea kicks serious butt. There are so many health-boosting reasons to drink this stuff that it boggles the mind!

Learn some mo': Green tea may trim "bad" cholesterol: study

Is the Kobo Vox the Next Good Cheap iPad Alternative?

As HP proved a couple months ago, Americans LOVE powerful and cheap tablet computers. Now sales of the new $200 Amazon Kindle Fire are literally exploding through the roof... despite the fact that it's significantly less powerful than the top-selling Apple iPad tablet. Now there's a new low-cost iPad alternative that some experts are predicting could be the best of them all: the Kobo Vox!

This new affordable tablet has a 7-inch display and will sell for just $199. It's more of a traditional Android-based tablet than the Kindle Fire, with the normal app icon interface. It weighs just over 14 ounces, features a SD memory card slot, and has a new type of anti-reflective screen that's based on the material used for airplane cockpits.  This first version does not come with a camera, external microphone, or 3G internet connectivity. But it does come with a nice low price that consumers are sure to love!

According to Kobo the Vox's main advantage over the Kindle Fire is its software. It's much more "open" than the Amazon tablet's apps and allows you to take purchased content off of the device. So, for example, you can transfer an ebook to another Android device if you choose to do so. It also features some pretty cool "social reading" functionality that allows users to easily communicate about a piece of content.

We say: The Kobo Vox sounds freaking GREAT! A cheap iPad-alternative tablet that doesn't have all the pain-in-the-butt issues associated with the Amazon Kindle Fire. More competition is always good and we're sure the "ultimate" $99 buy-one-for-every-room tablet will soon be on the market!

Learn some mo': Kobo Vox, Social-Reading Android Competitor to the Kindle Fire w/ Photos

Las Vegas Houses Get Cheaper: Back to 1998 Levels!

Do you ever wish you'd bought a cheap house in sunny Las Vegas back before the city's real estate market started exploding in the early 2000's? Well you're in luck! Home prices have dropped like a rock since the Great Recession began and over a decade's worth of value growth has basically been wiped out!

In fact, according to the Standard & Poor's/Case-Shiller home price indices report, average home values in the Las Vegas Valley have dropped back to the same levels they were at in October 1998. A single family home is now going for about $123,000... about 60% below their August 2006 peak.  It's a post-recession low in the nation's epicenter of the foreclosure crisis. While almost every other big US city is seeing slight increases in home values, Las Vegas dwellings are still worth less and less every day.

This is not real great news for a city that's dealing with huge numbers of "underwater" mortgages and about 14% unemployment rate. Las Vegas's economic boom of the late 90's and early 2000's has turned into an absolute nightmare with no end in sight, especially considering that Las Vegas only has 2 real industries -- casinos and construction -- and 95% of new building has ground to a halt.

We say: Vegas home values need to hurry up and bottom out. Harry Reid and Co. need to get some major construction project going (high-speed rail to LA anyone??) to help out all these out-of-work construction guys. And Vegas needs to do some quick and dirty development of small new industries that will lead to job growth. Until those things happen Vegas is going to remain in big, big, BIG economic trouble!

Learn some mo': Las Vegas home prices dip to October 1998 level

ASUS Reveals High-Power Transformer Prime Android Tablet

In just a few short years ASUS has become a pretty cool computer company with some REALLY cool, high-value computing products. Now they've just revealed a "next-generation" tablet called the Transformer Prime. Some are calling it the mostly highly anticipated Android tablet device every to be released!

Why? Because it's really, really, really powerful. It runs the new version of Android -- 4.0 aka "Ice Cream Sandwich" -- and features the freakishly high-performance NVidia quad-core Kal-El Tegra 3 microprocessor. This new chip somehow provides much better performance while using less power and significantly extending battery life!

Maybe the coolest thing about the Transformer Prime is how it looks. It's less than 8 and a half millimeters thick and has a brushed aluminum body said to resist fingerprints and stop certain handgun bullets. It has a 10-inch screen, an SD card slot, mini-HDMI port, and over 14-hours of battery life when it's fresh. It's expected to be available before the end of the year.

We say: Good stuff! We need more ultra powerful, battery-life-extending, shiny metalic tablet computers. Somebody needs to give the damn iPad a run for its money...

Learn some mo': ASUS' Jonney Shih unveils Transformer Prime Android tablet: 10-inch, 8.3mm, quad-core NVIDIA Tegra 3

Some Fake "Natural" Weight Loss Supplements Contain Dangerous Drug

A BUNCH of popular "natural" weight loss/diet supplements contain a powerful prescription appetite suppressant drug that was taken off the market by the FDA, according to a new US consumer warning. 20 brands of so-called natural weight loss aids were found to contain sibutramine, known as "Meridia" in the United States. The FDA took it off the market last year because it may cause some nasty side effects... like strokes and heart attacks!

The FDA says consumers should stop taking the supplements (see list below) and throw away the bottles ASAP. Anyone experiencing any strange health symptoms should see a doctor immediately. FDA lab tests uncovered the supplement scam. Experts say that unscrupulous marketers are willing to market weight loss products as "natural" alternatives to prescription drugs in order to make them seem safer to consumers and boost sales. Most of the products below are sold online in capsule form, but some are also tea and coffee versions.

List of sibutramine-spiked diet supplements:

: “Slender Slim 11”
: “Advanced Slim 5”
: “A-Slim 100% Natural Slimming Capsule”
: “Dream Body Slimming Capsule”
: “Ja Dera 100% Natural Weight Loss Supplement”
: “Leisure 18 Slimming Coffee”
: “Lishou”
: “Magic Slim Tea”
: “Magic Slim Weight Reduction Capsule”
: “P57 Hoodia”
: “PhentraBurn Slimming Capsules”
: “Sheng Yuan Fang”
: “Tengda”
: “Acai Berry Soft Gel ABC”
: “Botanical Slimming”
:  “DaiDaiHuaJiaoNang”
: “Fruit Plant Loosing Fat Capsule”
: “Health Slimming Coffee”
: “Lose Weight Coffee”
: “Pai You Guo Slim Tea”
: "Slim Forte Slimming Capsules," "Slim Forte Slimming Coffee," and Botanical Slimming Soft Gel"
: "Slim Forte Slimming Capsule" and "Slim Forte Double Power Slimming Capsules"
: “Slim Xtreme Herbal Slimming Capsule”
: “Celerite Slimming Capsules”
: Fruta Planta weight loss products

We say: It sounds like someone was trying to get rid of a bunch of banned Meridia so they sold it ultra cheap to some shady-ass supplement makers!

Learn some mo': FDA: 20 weight-loss supplements contain undeclared drug

Blood Oxygenation Treatment Might Cure Severe Swine Flu Infections

Using a special medical treatment that oxygenates the blood may save the lives of people with severe H1N1 flu ("swine flu") infections, according to new research from Britain. The procedure, called extracorporeal membrane oxygenation, basically involves adding oxygen to a person's blood outside of the body and then returning it to the body. It's a powerful (but expensive) technology that's already used to treat patients with severe respiratory problems, including newborn babies born prematurely.

Researchers took a close look at cases where patients developed breathing problems due to H1N1 infections. They noticed that people who received the oxygenation treatment were much less likely -- about 50% less likely in fact -- to die from the viral infection than those who didn't get the treatment.

There are already several types of mainstream oxygen therapies used to treat a variety of ailments. Also, many alternative health practitioners consider oxygen-boosting treatments -- such as hydrogen peroxide and ozone treatments -- to be among the best "natural" health treatments out there. The study's authors say that factors other than the oxygenation procedure might be responsible for the decreased risk of death, but it's reasonable to believe that significantly boosting oxygen levels in the blood directly or indirectly killed the H1N1 virus and saved lives.

Learn some mo': Oxygenating Blood of Hospitalized H1N1 Flu Patients Saved Lives

Apple Releases New iPod Nano Fitness Watch

Apple has released a new version of its popular iPod Nano music player. It runs new software that basically turns it into a "fitness watch" with capabilities far beyond the old pedometer function of the 2010 Nano. In fact, it has built-in support for the Nike+ workout tracking software that allows you to run some pretty cool walking and running programs while syncing data with the Nike+ website.

The new Nano is basically the same hardware as the 6th-generation model released last year. But it's cheaper, selling for just $129 for the 8GB model and $149 for the 16 gigabyte model. The improvements come from software. Updated touch-screen software includes 16 new virtual clock face designs, which should increase its popularity as a geek watch. A new scrolling touch user interface is said to be much better than the old grid UI.

We say: Too bad Apple didn't include a GPS-enabled version of the iPod Nano. That would have made it the ultimate fitness/workout watch for geeks who like to hike/run/bike while listening to their Rocky-theme playlist!

Learn some mo': New iPod Nano Is Clock and Fitness Watch in One

Flexible Piezoelectric Remote Works by Bending & Twisting It

A new flexible remote control is being released that allows you to change channels and adjust volume levels by bending and twisting it. It's made out of a new type of piezoelectric sensor film that was developed my Japanese tech firm Murata Manufacturing.

The "Leaf Grip Remote Controller" has two handles with a transparent film between them. The film contains two layers of special piezoelectric sensors that create small amounts of electricity through bending and twisting motions. Experts say that the new film is a breakthrough because it doesn't suffer from "pyroelectric" problems, which involve changes in temperature adversely effecting a piezoelectric device.

Murata has also announced the release of a "Touch Pressure Pad" that can be used to control a computer. It detects finger movements and can gauge the amount of pressure being applied. It could lead to an entirely new class of electronic device controls.

We say: Very nice. Now just hurry up and make a bendy/twisty controller for our video game consoles!

Learn some mo': Piezoelectric Remote Control Changes Channels When You Bend It

Google Search Ads Get More Social With +1 Feature

Google added the +1 social voting feature to their search ads today in an attempt to personalize users' "ad experiences." It also may be a move to create a fresh monetization channel for their new, and increasingly popular, Google Plus social network.

According to Google's engineers, clicking on a +1 button has the same effect whether it's an ad, a search results page listing, or an individual web page. +1 buttons will also start showing up on Adsense for Mobile text and image ads within the next couple of weeks. According to the search giant, users will be able to opt-out of the +1 ad personalization system by updating their Google account/Gmail personalization options. Advertisers can also choose to opt out and not have the +1 buttons appear on their ad campaigns.

We say: This is a very interesting move by the Big G. Adding a social layer to their ginormous ad network allows for all kinds of possibilities. It will also certainly affect the Adwords "quality score" feature that already gives advertisers (especially spammers) nightmares. So it may have a big effect on search engine marketing and pay-per-click (PPC) ad buying as a whole. Overall though, this should lead to better, more useful, and more targeted ads... higher revenues for Google... and more GREAT free Google products. That's always a good thing! :)

Learn some mo': Google Puts +1 on Ads, Creates Google Plus Revenue Stream

Dark Chocolate Almost as Good for You as Exercise

Eating small amounts of dark chocolate high in cocoa can boost your health in ways similar to exercise, according to new research. Scientists from Wayne State University found that a powerful compound found in chocolate -- called epicatechin -- appears to stimulate muscle tissue mitochondria in the same way as vigorous exercise.

According to head researcher Dr Moh Malek:

"Mitochondria produce energy which is used by the cells in the body. More mitochondria mean more energy is produced and more work can be performed... Aerobic exercise, such as running or cycling, is known to increase the number of mitochondria in muscle cells. Our study has found that epicatechin seems to bring about the same response - particularly in the heart and skeletal muscles."

In the study, middle-aged mice appeared to get the biggest benefit from the chocolate/cocoa supplementation. According to doctor Malek epicatechin supplementation combined with regular vigorous exercise may be a powerful combination for preventing/slowing muscle ageing. Experts say that more research is needed in order to confirm that chocolate provides similar benefits in humans.

We say: This is great! Now we have another excuse to buy pounds and pounds of dark chocolate at Trader Joe's! :D

Learn some mo': Chocolate 'as good for you as exercise'

("Broke") Las Vegas Schools Give Students iPad 2s

Southern Nevada's Clark County School District is giving nearly $800,000 worth of Apple iPad 2 tablet computers to 1,150 Las Vegas area students. It's part of a 1-year pilot program that's the biggest of its kind in the US. Schools receiving the ultra-portable computers include Silverado High School, Leavitt Middle School, Silvestri Middle School, and the Academy for Individualized Study, a special school for non-traditional students like Cirque du Soleil performers.

Each $687 iPad is pre-loaded with a special "interactive" Algebra 1 textbook application. The app -- called the Fuse Algebra textbook -- was developed by Houghton Mifflin Harcourt and teaches using touch-tab lessons and video tutorials. It also has powerful note-taking functionality.

According to Houghton Mifflin Harcourt the Fuse app is able to deliver "truly personalized instruction" that helps students learn difficult subject matter easier and more quickly. It apparently allows a student to learn at his or her own pace and to easily catch up on lessons if they miss school.

We say: We thought the Clark County School District was completely broke?!? First they spend a million on iPads for teachers last year. Now they buy a butt-load of iPad 2s for lazy high schoolers and middle school students? Does Apple have a mole planted inside the Las Vegas school board or what?

Learn some mo': In turnabout, teachers give students Apples, hope iPads boost test scores

16 "Super-Earths" Have Been Found!

Scientists have found a bunch of new planets outside our solar system, including 16 so-called "super-Earth" planets with masses as much as 10 times that of our own super-Earth. One of the newly discovered planets could, according to the science geeks, possibly sustain life.

The European Southern Observatory announced that they've found over 50 new extrasolar bodies. The most exciting is called "HD 85512 b" and it's nearly 4 times the size of Earth. It's just close enough to its own sun that it could potentially have liquid water... and even support some form of life!

Don't worry though, HD 85512 b is 35 light years away from our planet (a VERY far distance) so we probably won't be visited by aliens anytime soon. The discovery was made using some pretty powerful technology called the High Accuracy Radial Velocity Planet Searcher (HARPS) located at La Silla Observatory in Chile.

We say: This is great news! Now we just have to figure out a way to visit HD 85512 b because, who knows, they might have a roaring economy and some actual JOBS over there!!

Learn some mo': 16 'super-Earths' found outside solar system

Insulin Nasal Spray Slows Down Alzheimer's

A special insulin delivery system may help to slow down the progress of Alzheimer's disease in some people, according to a new study from the University of Washington. Researchers have developed an insulin nasal spray that appears to improve memory and protect cognition in people with Alzheimer's or "mild cognitive impairment".

In recent years researchers have found a strong connection between insulin resistance (which causes type 2 diabetes) and the development of Alzheimer's disease. For some reasons the brains of Alzheimer's patients don't have enough insulin hormone or aren't able to metabolize insulin that is present. But giving insulin via the normal methods -- such as injection -- does not solve the problem and can actually be very risky.

The new spray delivers insulin close to the brain by inserting it into the sinus cavity. From there it is able to travel along nerve cells and reach the brain with 20 minutes. The researchers said they were surprised that so many study participants benefited from the medication (most Alzheimer's treatments only work for a small percentage of patients).

Experts warn, however, that it will take some time and much more research before a consumer product is available to the public.

Learn some mo': Insulin nasal spray may slow Alzheimer's

Study: Pesticides Cause Hyperactivity in Children

Ingesting pesticides may lead to your child developing attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD), according to a new US study. Research published in the journal Pediatrics showed that common pesticide chemicals found in food and also in the home significantly increases the risk of ADHD in kids.

The researchers concluded that parents should try to buy organic, pesticide-free foods for their children. Also, women who are trying to become pregnant should begin eating a mostly organic diet at least 6 months before conception, then throughout the pregnancy, continuing until the baby has stopped breast feeding.

According to public health expert Phil Landrigan, MD:

"It's mainly exposure through food. Diet is the driver... For most people, diet is the predominant source. It's been shown that people who switch to an organic diet knock down the levels of pesticide by-products in their urine by 85 to 90 percent."

Many experts believe it's also important to reduce or eliminate the amount of toxic pesticides in and around your home. That means using organic gardening and weed-control methods, as well as non-toxic bug/pest control methods.

We say: It's a damn shame that kids in in the United States -- and much of the world for that matter -- have to endure constant exposure to dangerous pesticides and other environmental chemicals. If we know that certain pesticides cause harm in kids -- especially those designed to alter the neurological systems of pests -- why are they still legal to be used in our food production systems??

Learn some mo': Pesticides in food linked to ADHD in kids

Weight Watchers Diet Works! (According to Weight Watchers-Funded Study)

According to a new study, people following the super-popular Weight Watchers dieting program for a year were able to lose 15 pounds -- two times as much as people who followed normal medical weight loss advice from a doctor or nurse. The research was funded by the Weight Watchers corporation. But it was published in a very well-respected medical journal called the Lancet... so it's probably not total BS!

Researchers followed nearly 800 obese and overweight people for 12 months. Half of them followed the Weight Watchers program and half attended special 1-on-1 "weight management" meetings with their doctor every month. About 60% of the Weight Watchers group stuck with the program for the entire year and lost 15 lbs. Even those who dropped out lost weight, about 11 pounds on average.

Experts believe that the social/group support/accountability aspect of Weight Watchers -- which includes weekly weight-ins to track progress -- is what makes it more effective than typical medical weight loss approaches. According to Dr. Michael Jensen from the Mayo Clinic:

"It's not terribly surprising that a group whose whole career is basically helping people with weight management would do a better job than a primary-care group that has a lot more responsibilities on top of that."

Other commercial weight loss programs -- like Jenny Craig, Nutrisystem, and other pre-packaged diet food programs -- have provided similar results in other studies. In fact, a 2010 study funded by Jenny Craig found that women were able to lose about 20 pounds in a year while using the program.

We say: We think weight loss and fitness programs that involve healthy amounts of social peer pressure are going to become more and more popular -- because they work. There's nothing worse than being the only person in a social support group who's actually getting fatter!

Learn some mo': Dieters in Weight Watchers study drop up to 15 pounds in a year

Video: Hurricane Irene from Space

Hurricane Irene is set to do some major damage to the east coast of the United States in the next couple of days. Astronauts sitting on the International Space Station got an interesting view of the monster storm barreling up the Atlantic ocean. Here's a great video of what they're seeing 220 miles above the Earth's surface:



We say: DANG that's a scary-looking storm! Glad we live in Nevada. Good luck New Jersey!

Learn some mo': Hurricane Irene 'Big, Scary Storm,' Astronaut Says

Fewer Debit Card Rewards Programs, More Fees Coming from US Banks

Paying for things with a debit card has become extremely common in the United States, but that may soon change. US banks are getting rid of popular debit card rewards programs and, in some cases, charging monthly fees to customers who use them.

Debit card rewards programs usually offer special "points" awarded every time a card is used to make a purchase. Sometimes points are also rewarded for making minimum monthly deposits or for carrying a high checking or savings account balance. Customers can redeem the points for gift cards, popular electronics, or even cash in many cases.

Wells Fargo, one of the country's biggest banks, has just announced that they will end their debit card rewards program for both existing and new customers in October. Several other banks will probably me taking similar steps in the near future.

Why is this happening? Because of new federal regulations that limit "swipe" fees banks charge retailers for processing debit card transactions. Banks claim the new laws force them to make up for lost "interchange-fee income", which is why they're ending debit card rewards programs and, in some cases, adding new fees to checking/debit card accounts. Banks claim that the new fees will not apply to ATM transactions.

We say: We already pay WAY more than enough for our Wells Fargo and Bank of America accounts here in Nevada, which just so happens to be one of the "test" states for the new Wells Fargo debit card fees. Looks like it's time to start paying for everything with cash... which sucks!! They better at least keep the new fees low... :P

Learn some mo': Banks Test Monthly Fees for Debit Cards

$99 HP TouchPads Sell Off -- Are Cheaper Tablets on the Way?

Hewlett-Packard is offering their new TouchPad tablet computers for as cheap as $99 after announcing that the company is getting out of the tablet PC and smartphone business. The devices, which are normally priced at $399 - $499, are absolutely flying off of retail store shelves. Big online sellers like Amazon have already sold out of the powerful gadgets.

Americans and Canadians have jumped at the inventory-clearing sale. The devices cost about $300 each to produce so it's definitely an incredible deal... one that HP will lose a lot of money on. The company's actions have left experts wondering if any other big electronics maker will really be able to compete with Apple and their amazing iPad tablets.

The big problem seems to be price: how to create a really good tablet and sell it at a profit for less than the iPad 2. According to Noah Elkin, a mobile computing expert:

"One of the most revolutionary things about the iPad is its price... $499 is still a lot of money, of course, but it's cheap for a device that good and that polished. It's the single biggest challenge for Apple's competitors."

Over 90% of the tablet computer market is currently controlled by Apple. That's mainly because the best competitors -- such as Samsung's Galaxy Tab device -- usually have higher prices. Even when competing devices are priced equally, consumers tend to choose Apple products because of the "brand" advantage.

Experts say that Apple is able to sell a super high-end device at a reasonable price and still make big profits because they have huge advantages in the electronic components supply chain. It also has it's own direct retail channel (Apple Stores have exploded in popularity).

It's probable that stripped-down, lower-end tablets -- that still do the things most users want -- will soon be available. According to consumer surveys, $250 may the "magic" number to achieve big sales numbers. So while we might not see more 100 dollar deals like the current TouchPad offer in the near future, we might soon have a whole slew of under-$300 tablet to choose from!

Learn some mo': $99 HP TouchPads Magic Tablet Price Point

Lowest Mortgage Rates in Decades Hit US

Home mortgage rates in the United States have hit their lowest levels since 1971, according to new reports. The average rate on 30-year fixed mortgages is down to 4.15% according to Freddie Mac. The last time long-term home loan rates were lower than they are right now was in the 1950's!

15-year fixed mortgages, which are very popular home refinancing options, also fell to record lows -- 3.36 percent this week. So the good news is that, if you can get approved, at least you may be able to refinance your home and lower your mortgage payments.

The National Association of Realtors reported that significantly fewer Americans are buying previously occupied houses. In fact, home sales fell three and a half percent in July. Most experts don't expect the ultra-low mortgage rates to boost home sales any time soon. The consensus is that "unhealthy" housing prices and poor sales will continue to hold back the overall US economy for some time.

Many people who would like to buy homes can't even take advantage of cheap loans because they don't have the money. Many don't even have jobs right now! The ones who do are more focused on lowering their personal debt levels and increasing savings than in taking on new debt in the form of a big home loan.

To make matters worse, most lenders are only willing to provide mortgages to people with very high credit scores and/or big down payments, especially for first time buyers. Banks simply aren't willing to accept any amount of risk that a loan won't be paid back. The few borrowers who can qualify for new loans are often choosing to refinance in order to lower monthly payments. But refinancing provides much less benefit to the overall economy than home buying does.

We say: We are 90% sure that mortgage rates will drop even MORE. If you've got the cash or the credit scores now is a great time to buy cheap houses in troubled markets (like Las Vegas!).

Learn some mo': Mortgage Rates Hit 4.15 Percent, Lowest In Decades

Resveratrol-Based Drugs Might Protect Obese & Fight Aging

Here's some good news for obese and overweight people. A new drug that mimics resveratrol (the "red wine" antioxidant) appears to protect obese mice from common obesity-relate diseases and allow them to live up to 44% longer than untreated obese mice. The drug, called SRT-1720, seems to reduce the amount of fat build-up in the liver while increasing insulin sensitivity -- two very good things if you're very fat!

According to Dr. Rafael de Cabo, a gerontologist at the National Institute on Aging:

"[the findings] demonstrate for the first time the feasibility of designing novel molecules that are safe and effective in promoting longevity and preventing multiple age-related diseases in mammals..."

Some experts worry that a drug that removes many of the health risks of being obese is dangerous. But, in practical terms, it could greatly improve the quality of life of overweight people and extend the life of everyone who takes it.

Sirtris, the small pharmaceutical company that created the drug, designed it to mimic the natural grape/fruit compound resveratrol. They're also developing several other drugs based on resveratrol's incredible health-protecting powers. Their research is based on evidence that consuming large amounts of resveratrol and resveratrol-like compounds can provide benefits similar to very-low-calorie diets... especially longer life.

SRT-1720 appears to be able to increase levels of a powerful protein substance called sirtuins in the body. And it takes much less SRT-1720 than natural resveratrol to get the same amount of sirtuin boost. Most importantly, it appears to have no signs of toxicity! Another drug in development -- called SRT-2104 -- may be even more powerful and, according to one researcher, more suitable for human consumption.

We say: There's little doubt that resveratrol is a powerful chemical with lots of health-boosting, anti-aging benefits. If these new resveratrol-based drugs really work with no dangerous side-effects that will be GREAT news for millions of overweight Americans and aging baby-boomers. But until then we'll stick with our red wine, red grapes, cheap resveratrol supplements, and healthy diet!

Learn some mo': Longer Lives for Obese Mice, With Hope for Humans of All Sizes

Tracy Anderson Method Reviews: Does This HOT Weight Loss Method Work?

The Tracy Anderson Method has become one of the hottest "celebrity" weight loss/fitness programs in the US. Her "30-Day Weight loss Kick-Start" book is one of the best-selling quick weight loss programs on Amazon. Tracy's method involves things like muscle confusion and strict diet for losing weight and "shrinking" your body in just 30 days.

Many big actresses, musicians, and celebrities have used the Tracy Anderson Method to shed pounds and get into fantastic shape. Gwyneth Paltrow likes her stuff so much that she's become a business partner. According to Tracy Anderson, here method is based on scientific research and many years of experience. She says her workout and diet plan reshapes the body, tones the muscles, and "defies genetics" to drop weight rapidly.

The most unique thing about the Anderson Method is that it focuses on working the small stabilizer or "accessory" muscles, instead of the big major muscle groups (like the quadriceps and bicep muscles). According to Anderson doing this create a longer, leaner, more balanced look and not the bulked-up look woman apparently want to avoid.

The problem with that is that it's kind of BS. It's very easy for women to avoid getting big "bulky"-looking muscles. You don't have to focus on small stabilizer muscles. Compound, multi-joint exercises that work major muscle groups -- like squats, lunges, pull-ups, and push-ups -- are proven to burn fat, build sexy lean muscle mass, and give you faster results than single-joint exercises (like bicep curls).

Many reviews of the Tracy Anderson Method are not so great. Some claim it leaves you starving and nearly "blacking out" from hunger! Several fitness expert reviews are more negative than positive. Still though, millions of people -- including dozens of A-list celebs -- love Tracy's weight loss method... so it can't be all bad!

We way: What's wrong with a girl have some real muscle and definition?? We LOVE all those fit, buff, sexy fitness models. The Tracy Anderson Method might be OK if you want the "soft dancer" look but we hope most ladies stick to free weights and Crossfit workouts! :)

Do you have a review of this unique exercise and diet program? Please leave it below!

Ways to Make Money Without Having a Job (According to Zaarly)

Zaarly is a pretty cool new site that makes it easier to buy and sell goods and services with people who live really close to you. So, apparently, it's like Craigslist without all the driving. They've come up with a neat infographic that outlines ways to earn money without actually having a "job". We've been doing exactly that for several years now and we can honestly say it kicks lots and lots of butt (jobs sucks!).

Over the years we've tried several of the things on the list below. Blogging and writing/selling ebooks is a LOT easier than street performing and selling valuable bodily fluids, promise! Unfortunately most people can't write worth a dang, but starting an online store or selling stuff on Ebay can be done by just about anyone who's willing to make some serious effort.

Here's the infographic:

Walking dogs and collecting aluminum cans, bottles, and scrap metal might be good options of last resort if you're really desperate. But they have pretty low barriers to entry and something tells me we'll be seeing HUGE increases in the number of local dog walkers in the near future. Here in Las Vegas we already have thousands of hombres roaming the streets in beat-up pickup trucks pulling every bit of scrap metal out of the dumpsters.

Hopefully President Obama can start creating some more jobs before America's cities are overrun with dog walkers, scrap metal scroungers, and starving "focus group participants!"

Learn some mo': 10 Ways to Make Money Without a Job

The Best Place to Buy a House in the US: Las Vegas!

Las Vegas, Nevada is now the best place in the United States to buy a house, according to real estate website Trulia.com. Vegas home prices are the lowest they've been in 20 years and there are cheap home deals from Summerlin to Henderson. Right now it makes much more sense to buy instead of rent according to the experts who put together Trulia's Summer 2011 Rent vs. Buy Index, which compares the costs of buying and renting a 2-bedroom townhouse, condo, or apartment.

The other best places to buy a home, according to the list, are Detroit, MI; Mesa, AZ; Arlington, TX; and Fresno, CA. All have seen big drops in home prices during the US economic downturn. Vegas's price-to-rent ratio is "6", which is based on a median home list price of $58,000, divided by $9700 for 12 months or rent, or a little over $800 per month -- the best ratio in the country.

Experts say that the huge foreclosure rate, combined with Las Vegas's high unemployment rate, are what makes Vegas homes such good deals. Locals are losing their houses left and right and there aren't enough people with jobs/income to pick up the slack... which, unfortunately, is really good news for investors and people looking for cheap condos.

About 50% of Vegas home sales are cash-only transactions, currently. Many of them involve foreign investors from places like Canada and China. Some of the deals coming on the market are pretty incredible. In some cases you can buy a small single-family home for less than $400 per month (mortgage payment) with a VA-backed lone.

According to Las Vegas realtor Tim Kelly Kiernan of ReMax Extreme:

"If you can qualify for a mortgage, it makes sense to buy if you can... You can get an FHA with 3½ percent down; you buy a condo for $40,000, $50,000, $60,000, your payment would be ridiculously low. The whole thing is the creditworthiness of buyers."

Some investors are buying homes cheap, renting them out, and getting returns on investment of 10 or 11 percent. So basically, if you have the cash you can get some amazing home bargains and even make some good money renting to families and blackjack dealers! :)

Learn some mo': Survey ranks Las Vegas best place to buy home

15 Minutes of Exercise Per Day = Longer Life

If you exercise for just 15 minutes per day you could live significantly longer, according to new research from Taiwan. Although most experts suggest that 30 minutes per day, 5 or 6 days per week, is the best option, it appears that 15 minutes of moderate exercise is almost as good -- extending life by an average of 3 years.

Researchers from Taiwan's National Health Research Institutes found that a relatively small dose of moderate exercise like brisk walking can provide big benefits. They say that it benefits men, women, old people, young people, smokers, drinkers, healthy, and unhealthy people equally. According to one research, it's a "one size fits all" healthy boosting solution.

In the study people who performed daily exercise had less cancer mortality. This supports previous research showing the cancer-fighting power of regular exercise.

We say: This is good news for lazy people. If you can't get up off the couch and do at least 15 minutes or brisk exercise every day you have a big problem. Besides helping you live a longer life, regular exercise also improves your overall quality of life dramatically!

Learn some mo': 15 minutes of fitness a day can add 3 years to your life

Spices Boost Metabolism, Protect You After Fatty Meals

Natural antioxidant-rich spices can reduce the negative effects of high-fat meals and boost the metabolism, according to a new study from Penn State. Researchers found that adding spices like turmeric, cinnamon, black pepper, rosemary, oregano, garlic powder, and paprika to your meals can significantly improve post-meal insulin and triglyceride levels.

According to researcher Sheila West:

""Normally, when you eat a high-fat meal, you end up with high levels of triglycerides, a type of fat, in your blood... If this happens too frequently, or if triglyceride levels are raised too much, your risk of heart disease is increased. We found that adding spices to a high-fat meal reduced triglyceride response by about 30 percent, compared to a similar meal with no spices added... Antioxidants like spices may be important in reducing oxidative stress and thus reducing the risk of chronic disease."

Experts say that this is further evidence that dietary antioxidants can moderate oxidative stress in humans and possibly prevent some diseases like heart disease, arthritis and diabetes. Apparently the amount of spices used in the study provided the same amount of antioxidants as 5 ounces of red wine or one and a half ounces of dark chocolate (high cacao content).

We say: We love every spice listed in this report. Plus we drink LOTS of red wine and consume lots of dark chocolate. Of course, we also eat tons of red meat and fried fish so things probably even out... :)

Learn some mo': Antioxidant spices reduce negative effects of high-fat meal

Best Place to Retire: Las Vegas's Sun City Anthem Community

A popular high-end retirement community in southern Las Vegas -- Sun City Anthem -- has been ranked as one of the best places to retire by 55Places.com. Vegas has several nice retirement communities but Sun City Anthem is the most luxurious in the United States, according to the website.

Ageing baby boomers are hitting their retirement years and many choose to relocate to a warm, sunny, and fun place... making Southern Nevada and Las Vegas a popular destination. Sun City Anthem was able to beat out other popular "warm weather" communities in California, Arizona, and Florida.

According to the editors of 55Places.com, Sun City Anthem -- with over 7000 homes currently -- is "amenity rich" with 3 clubhouses and an incredible 36-hole golf course. It also features a nice variety of local dining and entertainment options for residents in the Henderson, Nevada area. And of course there are almost endless entertainment and eating options on the Las Vegas Strip, in the Downtown Vegas casinos, and in the dozens of off-Strip casinos and hotels around the city.

We say: If you're over 55 and retiring, get your but to Las Vegas. Our casinos, hotels, and businesses need your hard-earned life savings to stay afloat! :)

Learn some mo': Website ranks Sun City Anthem best retirement community in America

Very Low Interest Rates / Cheap Loans Until 2013 Boosts Stock Market

The US Federal Reserve announced today that Americans can enjoy at least 2 more years of low interest rates -- and, most likely, the cheap loans that come from them. Fed representatives said it would keep interest rates close to zero until at least mid-2013, guaranteed.

The move was an unprecedented one, designed to stop the crazy drops in stock values seen over the past 2 weeks. And it worked: Wall Street rallied within hours of the announcement and the Dow finished up nearly 430 points for the day, landing at 11,240 at the closing bell.

Most believe that promising to keep rates low shows that the Fed expects the US (and probably world) economy to remain weak for much longer than previously thought. Fundamental problems in Europe and the US have demonstrated very clearly that the Great Recession may not have totally ended at all.

We say: This is good news if you're trying to get a home loan, car loan, or pretty much any other loan. Credit will remain cheap for awhile, despite the recent downgrading of US debt. Now the trick is to find a job and/or other way to earn money so you can actually buy big-ticket items again... something that is much easier said than done right now!

Learn some mo': Stocks Soar After Fed Pledges Low Rates Into '13

Another Worldwide Recession May Be Starting

The US stock market took a huge dip on Thursday -- with the biggest 1-day drop since the 2008 crash -- and now the rest of the world's markets are following closely behind. Stock markets in London, Germany, France, Japan, China, and Hong Kong are all taking huge percentage hits.

The crazy thing is that almost every type of investment is dropping, even so-called "safe harbor" stuff like precious metals. Many experts believe that the US -- and probably the entire world -- is entering into a new recession in 2011. Some even claim that the US has already been in a recession since May!

The big question now is what will happen to European and US markets in the next few days. If the sell offs continue many financial experts say governments may have to take some type of emergency response to keep the global economy from diving headfirst into a depression.

Here's the good news: oil prices are dropping like a rock. Looks like it may be time to take your savings out of the bank, head to Vegas (please!), and let it all ride on the roulette table!

Learn some mo': World stock prices plunge amid 'general fear' of a new US recession, European debts

Best Diet for Long Life? Try Mediterranean!

For years health experts have argued over which diet is really the best diet for living a longer health. A new long-term study from the Netherlands may have shown us the answer. According to researchers there, the Mediterranean Diet is the best for fighting off the effects of aging and living a long life. In fact, when combined with other healthy lifestyle habits, eating this ancient diet can add up to 15 years to your lifespan!

The study showed that men and women who exercise at least 30 minutes per day, avoid becoming obese, don't smoke, and who eat a Mediterranean style diet live significantly longer than those who don't do any of those things. Experts have long suspected that the Mediterranean diet protects people from disease and greatly improves health over the long term (especially heart health!).

So the bottom line is that if you eat a diet rich in vegetables, fruits, nuts, seeds, fish, whole grains, legumes, and olive oil -- and drink a little red wine with meals -- you could live a lot longer. More importantly, this nutrient-rich diet will improve your overall quality of life dramatically, make you feel great, and allow you to enjoy all those extra years!

Learn some mo': Lifestyle has large impact on premature mortality

Google Buys Local Deals Aggregator "The Dealmap"

Google has made another big move in the fast-growing local deals space by purchasing The Dealmap. Company insiders say they were impressed with the things Dealmap has accomplished in a little over a year since being launched. The acquisition should enhance Google's other local deals offerings, such as the recently-launched Google Offers product.

The local daily deals business is exploding, with over 400 different online companies vying for market share. The industry is expected to generate over $6 billion in yearly gross revenue by 2015. Groupon and LivingSocial are still the biggest players but Google, Facebook, and other deep-pocketed web companies are getting into the game at a rapid pace.

The Dealmap is basically an aggregator service that pulls together current local deal offerings from several different websites. It currently has over 2 million users and its mobile app has been downloaded over a million times. It will be interesting to see how Google integrates Dealmap's platform into their own local deals offerings.

Learn some mo': Google buys daily deal aggregator The Dealmap

Fish Oil/DHA Supplements During Pregnancy = Stronger Baby Immune Systems

Taking fish oil supplements -- or possibly any type of DHA supplement -- during pregnancy may make your baby's immune system stronger. A new study shows that the babies of women taking fish oil/DHA supplements got sick less often and for shorter periods of time than babies of women who didn't take the healthy fat supplements.

DHA -- or docosahexaenoic acid -- is one of the omega-3 fatty acids found in fish oil, krill oil, and other marine supplements. Many health experts have long said that DHA supplements (and other omega 3 fat supplements) can significantly improve the health of both a baby and its mother. There is a strong connection between omega 3 fat intake and immune system boosting in humans. There is also some evidence that high omega 3 intake during and after pregnancy leads to smarter children.

Some experts believe that it's extremely important for women to eat large amounts of cold water fish and omega 3-rich seafood during pregnancy. But many doctors often urge against it because of the high levels of mercury and other toxins that are now found in most marine animals. A good fish oil or high-quality krill oil supplement may allow a women to enjoy the baby health-boosting benefits of DHA without the risks!

Learn some mo': Fish oil in pregnancy may ward off babies' colds

Google Android Most Popular Mobile OS, But Apple Still Sells the Most Smartphones

Google's Android mobile operating system has taken the lead as the most popular platform in US smartphone devices, with nearly 40% of the market. Apple is in second at 28% and Blackberry/RIM is in third with 20% of the market.

Most experts say that Android's open source nature has allowed it to beat out Apple and the other big boys in terms. Anyone can put the ultra-powerful OS on their device and anyone can develop cool/useful apps for it. That will eventually put Android in the smartphone driver's seat.

However, Apple is still the top overal smartphone maker in the US, due to the huge popularity of its iPhone device.

Smartphone manufacturer HTC is moving up the ranks and its Android-based products are currently 14% of the market. Its Windows Mobile and WP7 phones give it another 6% of the market. Motorola and Samsung are the big players currently in the US with about 10% of the market each. Nokia, once a worldwide smartphone leader, is in big trouble and has lost a huge amount of market share in the US and abroad!

Learn some mo': Android is top OS, but Apple top smartphone maker