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A pain in the neck

Research by Temple University's Judith Gold suggests that excessive texting among college students can lead to neck and shoulder pain, a condition typically associated with prolonged computer use. The study uses infrared cameras and motion analysis to track the body's position during texting simulations.

Rice U. lab leads hunt for new zeolites

A Rice University lab has discovered over 2.7 million possible structures for molecular sieves, also known as zeolites, which have potential applications in industries such as gasoline production and laundry detergents.

SourceRice University·JournalThe Journal of Physical Chemistry C·DateNov 2, 2009

iPhone the body electric

Researchers at the University of Utah developed three new iPhone apps to help scientists, students, and doctors study human anatomy and analyze medical images. AnatomyLab allows users to dissect a cadaver in 40 layers, while ImageVis3D Mobile enables interactive 3-D visualization of large data sets.

Bringing harmony to electronic waste disposal

The global e-waste problem requires harmonization of disposal and recycling standards across national borders to effectively address the issue. The use of outdated electronic devices poses significant risks to human health and the environment, with 20-50 million tonnes of e-waste generated annually.

SourceInderscience Publishers·JournalInternational Journal of Environmental Engineering·DateSep 4, 2009

Rice tapped for role in computing research center

Rice University will lead a multi-university Center for Domain-Specific Computing with UCLA, Ohio State, and UC Santa Barbara to develop high-performance computing for medical imaging. The project aims to create energy-efficient, cost-effective solutions for preventive, diagnostic, and therapeutic procedures.

Genetically engineered bacteria compute the route

Researchers created 'bacterial computers' that can solve complex mathematical problems, such as the Hamiltonian Path Problem and Burnt Pancake Problem. The innovation uses synthetic biology techniques to enable living cells to perform calculations, opening up new applications for biology and mathematics.

SourceBMC (BioMed Central)·JournalJournal of Biological Engineering·DateJul 23, 2009

Recognition at last

A rapid face recognition method has been developed that can accurately identify individuals despite disguises and varying lighting conditions. The new algorithm reduces computer power requirements without compromising accuracy, making it suitable for real-world applications such as border crossings and automated banking.

SourceInderscience Publishers·JournalInternational Journal of Intelligent Systems Technologies and Applications·DateJul 7, 2009

Clinical trial shows quadriplegics can operate powered wheelchair with tongue drive system

A clinical trial shows that quadriplegics can operate a powered wheelchair using a tongue drive system, which detects movement of a magnetic tracer attached to the tongue. The system allows for intuitive control with minimal prior training, enabling users to play computer games and navigate obstacles with ease.

SourceGeorgia Institute of Technology·JournalIEEE Transactions on Biomedical Engineering·DateJul 6, 2009

Reading the brain without poking it

A new study from the University of Utah shows that microelectrodes can detect brain signals controlling arm movements without penetrating the brain. This technology may enable amputees and paralyzed individuals to control prosthetic limbs and computers using their thoughts.

SourceUniversity of Utah·JournalNeurosurgical FOCUS·DateJun 28, 2009

Free textbooks

The trend of open-source academic publishing is changing the way textbooks are created and distributed. As more authors self-publish their work, it raises essential questions about how to fairly compensate them for their time and effort.

Computers can boost literacy

A California Department of Education-funded project found that student achievement increased 27.5% with the use of technology to increase academic achievement in fourth-grade classrooms. Traditional print-based literacy is still important, but new technologies are also essential for students in the 21st century.

Texting in class

Researchers are redefining what constitutes literature with the rise of Japanese cell-phone novels, which demonstrate similar linguistic sophistication to traditional print novels. A study found that cell-phone novels are written at a lower reading level, sparking debate about their literary merit.

Computer-related injuries on the rise

A study published in the American Journal of Preventive Medicine found a more-than-sevenfold increase in computer-related injuries from 1994 to 2006. The majority of injuries occurred at home and were caused by tripping or falling over equipment, hitting against or catching on computers, or computer equipment falling on patients.

SourceElsevier Health Sciences·JournalAmerican Journal of Preventive Medicine·DateJun 9, 2009

Patients reveal willingness to trade hands-on medical care for computer consultations

A study by Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center found that patients want full access to their medical records, are willing to make some privacy concessions, and expect computers to play a major role in their care. Patients prioritize transparency and online access over traditional face-to-face doctor visits.

SourceBeth Israel Deaconess Medical Center·JournalJournal of General Internal Medicine·DateMay 18, 2009

Computer use significantly affected by arthritis

A new study found that people with arthritis experience significant difficulties with computer use due to pain, restricted movement, and muscle weakness. The study suggests that providing individuals with arthritis with strategies and equipment can reduce work limitations and prevent disabilities.

SourceWiley·JournalArthritis Care & Research·DateApr 30, 2009

Caltech scientists control complex nucleation processes using DNA origami seeds

Researchers at Caltech have successfully created a system using DNA origami seeds that can direct the self-assembled growth of DNA tiles into precise forms. This breakthrough demonstrates unprecedented control over information-directed molecular self-assembly, paving the way for future applications in technology and materials science.

SourceCalifornia Institute of Technology·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateApr 8, 2009