Lesley K. McCullough

Electronic devices like MP3 players and laptop computers may become dramatically more portable thanks to engineers from Purdue University, Indiana, who Monday unveiled a new method of using fuel cells, powered by hydrogen instead of methanol, to automatically recharge batteries.

Next time you use your credit card to purchase something at the local drug store or supermarket, the person behind the counter will be able to help protect your identity, Visa USA says. Visa USA and the U.S. Chamber of Commerce launched a nationwide campaign this week to improve data security, saying consumer identity theft can be reduced by a focus on the point of sale.