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Plenty of apps promise to make life easier for people with life-threatening allergies to nuts and other foods. One scientist even invented a smartphone-based lab to detect potential allergens. But asking "Does that have nuts in it?" may actually be a better and safer option than pulling out your phone.

Those of us trying to get in shape after overindulging this holiday season can get help from a slew of new devices that monitor steps climbed, calories burned and heart rate. But companies and venture capitalists in new startups hope to make money in a new way: by selling the data right back to the people tracking their activity — and to their employers.

The wildly popular photo-sharing site Instagram nearly caused a user revolt when it revamped its terms of service and privacy policy to suggest it could allow uploaded photos to be used in ads without users' permission. Instagram later clarified its position in an effort to quell concerns.

A new study concludes that a mobile app can help boost weight loss, if it's used as part of a more comprehensive strategy. The findings speak to the importance of blending two successful weight loss strategies: tracking and group support.

The Federal Trade Commission has released a report taking to task the makers of mobile apps for children. It says apps are not transparent enough about the personal information they collect. It's the latest sign the Obama administration is concerned about children's privacy online.

The agency says that among its most troubling findings is that many apps for kids share such information as geolocations with third parties. Developers need to do more to improve privacy protections and to tell parents what they're doing, the agency reports.

The latest addition to the field of smartphone apps that help people eat responsibly is designed for diners who care about the plight of the people who prepare and serve the meals. The restaurants were rated on pay, sick days, and opportunities for advancement.

A new industry of apps is helping parents stay one step ahead of their kids online, monitoring every post, photo and text they send or receive. Some argue this is necessary parental oversight in the modern digital age. Others say it sends the wrong message to kids and can backfire.

We've pulled together a selection of storm-tracking maps, graphics and animations from across the web to help keep you abreast of the storm's developments.

Researchers have found dozens of free apps on iPhones and Androids that promote and glamorize smoking. Many of the apps target children and teens by using cartoons, celebrities and games. Health experts say these apps, downloaded by millions of people, violate bans on tobacco advertising.