In the Atlantic by James Fallows (How the West Was Wired) October, 2008. The article details the difficulties of surviving in western China. The authors list several obstacles such as isolationism, poverty and a lack of education. Mr. Fallows highlights the work of college classmates Sayling Wen and Kenny Lin and their lofty goal of modernizing western China by connecting isolated areas with major cities via the internet. The duo succeeded on many fronts including the construction of a major business resort and the creation of a “Town and Talent” center focused on training citizens for life in major eastern cities. The “Town and Talent “centers have accomplished some goals. Abstract by Traci Turreo

In Mother Jones by Arthur Allen (Vaccine Skeptics vs. Your Kids) September/October, 2008. The author investigates the current trend by many parents of not vaccinating their children against common diseases such as whooping cough and measles. Reasons given for not vaccinating includes distrust of doctors, the supposed link to autism and a higher educational attainment level; Child vaccination supporters’ point to the success of aggressive vaccination requirements that have all but eliminated many childhood diseases from the industrialized world. Abstract by Teal McAllister

In Fortune by Geoff Colvin (Brains vs. Brawn) 8, September, 2008. The author uses the piece in an attempt to prove his belief that intellectuals will always trump economic issues in our society. Mr. Colvin compares several “Brain vs. Brawn” items such as commodities, steel, microprocessors, pharmaceuticals, movies, clothing and automobiles. Mr. Colvin concludes that a smart investor can make money on a lucky commodity guess while a smart businessperson can always innovate and create new products. Abstract by Tina Wells

In the Economist by the Economist (The World in a Test Tube), 4, September, 2008. The authors investigate problems associated with the technology of climate change. The once promising development of Hydrogen cell vehicles are highlighted through an in-depth look at three significant problems: 1) the lack of hydrogen filling stations, 2) the cost of constructing hydrogen vehicles and 3) the amount of carbon dioxide produced from creating hydrogen.  The impact and limitations of geo-engineering on combating global warming were discussed such as limiting research as it may cause more problems and thus give politicians a reason for ignoring the issue all together. Abstract by Steven Kamack

In the Wall Street Journal by June Fletcher (Meet the Nouveaux Neighbors) 5, September, 2008. Florida and Arizona are becoming “Canada South” as Canadians flock to sunshine destinations in search of summer homes. A recent report indicated that a third of the real estate sells in Florida and Arizona were purchased by Canadians. Reasons given for the southern migration include the rising Canadian dollar, a strong housing market, and escalating home equity—properties in Canada grew by an amazing 11% in 2007 and are expected to rise an additional 5% for 2008. The influx of Canadians to Sunbelt states has allowed for the transfer of foreign traditions such as traditional foods and languages. Abstract by Steve Kramer

In the Rolling Stone Magazine by Sean Wilentz (How Bush Destroyed The Republican Party) 4, September, 2008. The article chronicles various troubles associated with President Bush and the Republican Party. Several recent incidences are highlighted including Republican lobbyist Jack Abramoff, the indictment of DeLay, the fall of Newt Gingrich and Dick Armey, the famous Mission Accomplished speech and the decision to polarize the threat of terrorism. The article also mentions the significance of the 2000 Republican Party Presidential race between Bush and McCain. Other figures mentioned include Donald Rumsfeld, Alberto Gonzales and Karl Rove. Abstract by Tim Wells

On Scientific American.com by John Matson (Angling for a Better Way to Farm Fish—And Vegetables, Too), 28, August, 2008. Mr. Matson investigates the growth of “aquaponics” a type of farming that incorporates fish farming and hydroponic agriculture—the fish serve as the fertilizer and the plants serve as water purifiers. The main idea behind the concept is to mass produce food while limiting the environmental impacts. Opponents of the process point to the large amounts of fossil fuels needed to keep the systems running and the constant care required to assure the system is operating properly. Abstract by Brett Weblow

In The Economist by the Economist (The Price of being Well), 28, August, 2008. The Economist investigates the completeness of a world health report commissioned by the World Health Organization. The report concludes that income is not the only contributing factor to health. Other things such as social, political and economic factors that have little direct influence on health play a significant role in determining if children live to their full lifespan. The authors provide several suggestions for improving the health of people in poor countries such as improving the quality of everyday life for women and children, investing in childcare and education and providing better working conditions. Abstract by Karen Flower

On the American Prospect.com by Harold Meyerson (Labor: United and Divided), 1, September, 2008. Mr. Meyerson investigates the recent semi-defection of four AFL-CIO unions: 1) steelworkers, 2) communication workers, 3) auto workers, and 4) the international federation of professional and technical employees. The four unions or the “Alliance” are funding a separate political campaign by refusing to pay their AFL-CIO political action dues. The point of contention between Alliance members and the AFL-CIO platform is the significance of the Employee Free Choice Act which is viewed as essential for union growth by Alliance members. Alliance members have agreed to follow and participate in the AFL-CIO activities when it believes it benefits their membership. Abstract by Ryan Michael

On the American Spectator.com by George H. Wittman (Genius Left vs. Stupid America), 29, August, 2008. The article takes on a comical tone as the author makes the case that according to many in Europe, America’s diplomatic incompetence is actually to blame for recent global diplomacy issues. Several examples are given including Russia invading Georgia, and Iran pursing enriched uranium. Many people in Europe believe that the U.S. government exaggerates threats in order to keep large defense contracts flowing. The author concludes “tongue-in-cheek” that maybe the U.S. will stop defending global democracy efforts. Abstract by Terri Lynn

On Fortune.com by Michael V. Copeland (Genomes “R” Us) , 28, August, 2008. The author profiles Menlo Park startup Pacific Biosciences. The company claims that by 2013 they will have built a machine that can map a person’s DNA in less than 15 minutes for under a $1,000 compared with current technology that is time and cost prohibitive.  The device would allow scientist and pharmaceutical companies the opportunity to focus on rare and deadly health conditions such as cancer and Alzheimer. Abstract by Becky Schiller

On Harvard Business Review.com by Scott Anthony (YouNoodle: Better Innovation through Algorithms), August, 2008. Mr. Anthony investigates YouNoodle, a company that claims it has created a database that can predict the viability of early-stage startup companies. The company relies on four common areas typically used by venture capitalist: 1) team members, 2) business financials, 3) idea and/or concepts and, 4) internal and external advisors. The reliability of YouNoodle could alter how venture capitalists, who usually rely on wisdom and experience, invest in new companies. Abstract by Brett Wilter