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Hurricane Katrina: Phone home

Researchers from Tel Aviv University have developed a novel way to predict the intensity of the next big flood using cell phone signals. By analyzing fluctuations in atmospheric moisture around cell phone towers, they can provide accurate 'critical moisture distribution' levels for fine-tuning model predictions of big floods.

SourceAmerican Friends of Tel Aviv University·JournalAtmospheric Chemistry and Physics·DateJul 6, 2009

How to text message and avoid pain

A study by Ewa Gustafsson found that young adults with neck, arm, or hand symptoms tend to use their mobile phones differently than healthy controls. They often text message while hunched over and use the single thumb technique, which can lead to increased stress on hands and reduced breaks.

SourceUniversity of Gothenburg·JournalJournal of Electromyography and Kinesiology·DateJun 23, 2009

Writing in air not pie in the sky

Researchers developed the PhonePoint Pen application, which uses built-in cell phone accelerometers to recognize human writing. Users can write short notes or draw diagrams in mid-air, with plans for future improvements including real-time feedback and character recognition.

Viral epidemics poised to go mobile

Researchers analyzed calling and mobility data from over six million mobile phone users to understand the threat of mobile phone viruses. A highly fragmented market share has hindered outbreaks so far, but predicting that viruses will become a significant threat once a single operating system's market share grows sufficiently large.

R U learning?

A pilot study is testing the effectiveness of text messaging as a medium for delivering HIV prevention education to at-risk teens. The study, funded by the National Institutes of Health, uses a Centers for Disease Control and Prevention-approved curriculum and involves sending text, image, and video material to teen participants.

Hospital mobile phones 'superbug' scare

Mobile phone handsets used by hospital workers are highly contagious with bacteria, including MRSA, and can lead to infections ranging from skin complaints to life-threatening illness. The study recommends strict infection-control procedures and decontamination methods to prevent the spread of infection.

SourceBMC (BioMed Central)·JournalAnnals of Clinical Microbiology and Antimicrobials·DateMar 5, 2009

K-State marketing professor says online shopping will look something like Second Life in the future

A Kansas State University marketing professor says online shopping will borrow from Second Life, allowing shoppers to interact with virtual avatars and purchase items in a social setting. The future of e-commerce may also involve mobile devices, with research suggesting that gaming and chat features are key to attracting young customers.

SourceKansas State University·JournalInternational Journal of Electronic Marketing and Retailing·DateFeb 19, 2009

Drivers distracted more by cell phones than by passengers

A new study by University of Utah psychologists found that drivers are more distracted by talking on a cellular phone than by conversing with a passenger in an automobile. When drivers talk on a cell phone, they drift out of their lanes and missed exits more frequently than drivers conversing with a passenger.

SourceUniversity of Utah·JournalJournal of Applied Psychology·DateDec 1, 2008

Self-powered devices possible, says Texas A&M researcher

A Texas A&M researcher has discovered a way to harness energy from sound waves using piezoelectric materials, which could enable the development of self-powered cell phones and other devices. The discovery is significant because it shows that energy can be converted at a 100% increase when materials are manufactured at a very small size.

SourceTexas A&M University·JournalPhysical Review B·DateDec 1, 2008

11,000 alien species invade Europe

A comprehensive overview of alien species in Europe reveals over 11,000 documented species, with 15% causing economic damages and 15% harming biological diversity. The DAISIE project provides a valuable tool for managing biological invasions in Europe, enabling early detection, eradication, and control methods.

UNC study: Text messaging may help children fight off obesity

A new UNC study suggests that cell phone text messaging can be an effective tool for self-monitoring healthy behaviors in children. The study found that children who used text messaging to report their calorie intake, exercise, and screen time had a lower attrition rate and greater adherence to monitoring than those using paper diaries.

SourceUniversity of North Carolina Health Care·JournalJournal of Nutrition Education and Behavior·DateNov 11, 2008

Do cell phones increase brain cancer risk?

Recent studies suggest a possible link between long-term cell phone use and increased risk of brain tumors, prompting a call for collaborative research initiatives. Scientists emphasize the need for definitive evidence to determine the risks associated with electromagnetic field exposure from cell phones.

SourceElsevier·JournalSurgical Neurology·DateOct 20, 2008

As good as it gets?

A study by Brandeis University suggests that age-related differences exist in how people view their past, present, and future expectations. Younger adults tend to be more optimistic about their future, while older adults are more realistic and accurate in their predictions.

SourceBrandeis University·JournalPsychological Science·DateSep 11, 2008

Cellular annoyance

A multi-national survey reveals that cell phone use is perceived differently across cultures and settings. People in Turkey are happy for phone use in class, while Italians are annoyed by taking calls at the theatre. The study highlights the importance of understanding social impact on goodwill when utilizing mobile communications.

SourceInderscience Publishers·JournalInternational Journal of Mobile Communications·DateJun 24, 2008