Two new studies offer some of the first evidence of success with weight-loss programs that could be relatively easy for primary-care providers to put into practice. Gary Foster, director of Temple's Center for Obesity Research and Education, says that what sets this research apart is that it extends the reach of treatment beyond specialized clinics. Primary-care doctors are used to treating diabetes and high cholesterol, he said, but "you can't write a script for obesity."

In an opinion piece, Temple criminologist Jerry Ratcliffe said that the Philadelphia Police Department's recently updated crime-fighting strategy — which decentralizes control and empowers local command staff — brings with it greater need for innovative, dedicated lieutenants and captains.

Scientists are exploring a new concern about the Marcellus Shale: earthquakes. To break up the shale and get to the gas, energy companies pump millions of gallons of water, sand and chemicals underground. Temple geologist Nick Davatzes said that the injection of large quantities of water near a fault can be destabilizing.