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New and improved multi-band operational receiver for 5G new radio communication

Researchers at Tokyo Institute of Technology have developed a novel harmonic-selection technique to extend the operational bandwidth of 5G NR communication. The proposed technology improves power efficiency and achieves low noise, making it compatible with all existing 5G bands and future 60 GHz licensed band.

SourceTokyo Institute of Technology·JournalIEEE Journal of Solid-State Circuits·TypeExperimental study·DateDec 22, 2022

Harnessing smartphones to track how people use green spaces

A new study demonstrates how anonymized smartphone data can monitor public use of parks and green spaces, shedding light on relationships between people and nature. The findings highlight potential for GPS data to inform management and optimize benefits for both recreation and biodiversity.

SourcePLOS·JournalPLOS Computational Biology·TypeExperimental study·DateDec 15, 2022

Can smartphones really help me lose weight?

A new smartphone healthcare app called CALO mama Plus has been found to lead to significant reductions in body weight. The study, conducted by researchers from the University of Tsukuba, tested the efficacy of a comprehensive behavior modification app and found it to be as effective as established interventions.

SourceUniversity of Tsukuba·JournalNutrients·DateNov 22, 2022

NTU Singapore scientists convert waste paper into battery parts for smartphones and electric vehicles

Researchers at Nanyang Technological University have developed a technique to convert waste paper into lithium-ion battery electrodes, reducing greenhouse gas emissions and increasing durability. The new method uses carbonisation and laser cutting to create reusable batteries with superior properties.

SourceNanyang Technological University·JournalAdditive Manufacturing·TypeExperimental study·DateNov 22, 2022

Predicting mortality risks using smartphones

Researchers used smartphone sensors to measure walking activity in 100,000 UK Biobank participants and developed predictive models of mortality risk. The study showed that just 6 minutes per day of steady walking measured by the sensor can accurately predict mortality risk, similar to physical measures.

Can smartphones predict mortality risk?

Researchers used data from 100,000 UK Biobank participants to develop predictive models of mortality risk using only 6 minutes of steady walking collected by smartphone sensors. These models achieved similar accuracy to traditional measures of gait speed and walk pace.

SourcePLOS·JournalPLOS Digital Health·TypeObservational study·DateOct 20, 2022

Does reducing screen time increase productivity? Not necessarily

A new study from San Diego State University's Fowler College of Business found that monitoring cellphone screen time with specific goals in mind can lead to higher perceived productivity and user satisfaction. However, excessive self-monitoring can induce fatigue and weaken the effect on productivity.

SourceSan Diego State University·JournalAIS Transactions on Human-Computer Interaction·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateOct 12, 2022

Illinois Tech researchers extract personal information from anonymous cell phone data using machine learning, raising data security and privacy concerns

A team of Illinois Tech researchers used machine learning to estimate the age and gender of individual users with high accuracy, raising questions about data security and privacy. The study highlights the need for better regulations and best practices to protect personal information from being misused.

NUS researchers invented first-ever interactive mouthguard that controls electronic devices by biting

Researchers developed a smart mouthguard that translates complex bite patterns into instructions to control devices such as computers, smartphones and wheelchairs. The device achieves 98% accuracy and has the potential to support individuals with limited dexterity or neurological disorders.

SourceNational University of Singapore·JournalNature Electronics·TypeExperimental study·DateOct 10, 2022

Learning on the edge

Researchers developed a new technique that enables on-device training using less than a quarter of a megabyte of memory, reducing the need for powerful computers and central servers. This approach preserves privacy by keeping data on the device, making deep learning more accessible for low-power edge devices.

DryEyeRhythm: A reliable, valid, and non-invasive app to assess dry eye disease

A new smartphone application, DryEyeRhythm, uses cameras to measure blink characteristics and administer questionnaires for diagnosing dry eye disease. The app has been validated in a study, showing high reliability and validity in assessing DED, with promising implications for early diagnosis and treatment.

SourceJuntendo University Research Promotion Center·JournalThe Ocular Surface·TypeObservational study·DateSep 28, 2022

A review on mobile sensing in the COVID-19 era

Researchers reviewed mobile sensing designs, outcomes, and limitations to better understand its capacity for remote detection, longitudinal tracking, and exposure tracing. Despite technical and societal challenges, advances in data analytics and machine learning may improve data quality and scalability.

SourceHealth Data Science·JournalHealth Data Science·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateSep 22, 2022

Older adults with regular activity routines are happier and do better on cognitive tests, study finds

A study by University of Pittsburgh researchers found that older adults with consistent daily routines are happier, less depressed, and have better cognitive function. Participants who rose early, stayed active throughout the day, and followed a regular routine performed better on cognitive tests than those with disrupted patterns.

SourceUniversity of Pittsburgh·JournalJAMA Psychiatry·DateSep 12, 2022

Smartphone video motion analysis detected narrowed neck arteries that may lead to stroke

A new study published in the Journal of the American Heart Association suggests that smartphone video motion analysis can accurately detect narrowed neck arteries, which are a significant risk factor for stroke. The algorithm achieved an impressive 87% accuracy rate in detecting stenosis in participants with carotid artery disease.

SourceAmerican Heart Association·JournalJournal of the American Heart Association·DateAug 17, 2022

Using smartphones could help improve memory skills

A new study published in Journal of Experimental Psychology: General found that using digital devices as external memory can improve memory skills. Participants who used digital devices to store information showed improved memory for both saved and unsaved information, with a notable increase in recall of less important details.

SourceUniversity College London·JournalJournal of Experimental Psychology·TypeExperimental study·DateAug 1, 2022

How might Big Tech affect financial inclusion and stability?

A recent analysis found that Big Tech companies can provide innovative financial services to people excluded from traditional banking, improving financial inclusion. However, the authors caution that without proper education, these services may introduce risks to financial stability.

SourceWiley·JournalContemporary Economic Policy·DateJul 7, 2022

Turning phones on silent may increase phone checking

Researchers at Penn State discovered that people with high 'Fear-of-Missing-Out' and 'Need-to-Belong' personality traits check their phones significantly more often when in silent mode, staying on the phone longer as well. This suggests a one-size-fits-all approach to managing smartphone distractions may be misguided.

SourcePenn State·JournalComputers in Human Behavior·DateJun 30, 2022

Who benefits from brain training and why?

A joint UC Riverside and UC Irvine study found that people who show near transfer in brain training are more likely to experience far transfer, meaning improved focus and problem-solving skills. The research suggests that working memory training can be effective for certain individuals, but its impact on fluid intelligence remains deba...

SourceUniversity of California - Riverside·JournalNature Human Behaviour·TypeExperimental study·DateJun 20, 2022

An edible QR code takes a shot at fake whiskey

Researchers at Purdue University have developed edible fluorescent silk tags with QR codes to verify whiskey authenticity, which can be activated with a smartphone scan. The technology has the potential to combat fake medications and address counterfeiting issues worldwide.

SourcePurdue University·JournalACS Central Science·TypeObservational study·DateJun 6, 2022

Study evaluates how to eliminate telemedicine’s virtual waiting room

A study by UC San Diego Health found that sending patients a text message when their doctor is ready can reduce wait times and improve patient satisfaction. The 'telemedicine untethered' option showed a 55-minute time savings in clinic operations, with zero late appointments and increased flexibility for both patients and providers.

SourceUniversity of California - San Diego·JournalQuality Management in Health Care·DateJun 1, 2022