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Distracted? Slowing down, not a safe option

Distracted drivers who slow down to avoid on-road conflicts may actually increase their own crash risk. Young drivers are particularly vulnerable due to the prevalence of mobile phone use in this age group. The study suggests context-aware mobile phone design, advanced technology, and warning systems as potential solutions.

SourceQueensland University of Technology·JournalAccident Analysis & Prevention·DateApr 10, 2017

Are your sensors spying on you?

Researchers at Newcastle University found that malicious websites and installed apps can crack four-digit PINs with a 70% accuracy using smartphone sensor data. The study revealed that people are unaware of the risks, and despite industry awareness, no solution has been found yet.

SourceNewcastle University·JournalInternational Journal of Information Security·DateApr 10, 2017

New twist on sofa problem that stumped mathematicians and furniture movers

Researchers at the University of California - Davis have developed a new solution to the 'moving sofa problem', a challenge that has stumped mathematicians for over 50 years. The team used 3-D printing and mathematical techniques to find the largest area that can fit around a corner, with potential applications in complex mathematics.

SourceUniversity of California - Davis·JournalExperimental Mathematics·DateMar 20, 2017

Technology communication: Worries through information?

A recent study by KIT researchers found that communication of risks related to mobile phones can have unintended consequences. Information on efficient precautions was found to lead to an increased risk perception by recipients, highlighting the need for a better understanding of how messages about precautions affect public perception.

SourceKarlsruher Institut für Technologie (KIT)·JournalInternational Journal of Environmental Research and Public Health·DateDec 14, 2016

Finger swipe-powered phone? We're 1 step closer

Michigan State University researchers have developed a low-cost nanogenerator that can harness energy from human motion, powering devices such as smartphones and headsets without batteries. The device, called FENG, is flexible, biocompatible, and scalable, with advantages including being lightweight and robust.

SourceMichigan State University·JournalNano Energy·DateDec 9, 2016

Designing the future internet

Raychaudhuri's MobilityFirst project aims to rearchitect the internet with name-based routing, improving flexibility, security, and efficiency. The project has underway trials to deliver content closer to users, extend mobile services, and support targeted emergency messaging.

Chemists offer enhanced 3-D look inside batteries

Chemists have created a new technique to yield highly detailed, three-dimensional images of battery interiors. This approach uses magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) to monitor the condition of batteries in real time, potentially leading to more efficient and safer power sources.

SourceNew York University·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateSep 12, 2016

Containing our 'electromagnetic pollution'

Researchers at Drexel University discovered that a few-atoms-thin titanium carbide material called MXene can effectively block electromagnetic radiation. The material's high electrical conductivity and two-dimensional structure make it ideal for shielding devices without adding significant weight.

SourceDrexel University·JournalScience·DateSep 8, 2016

New digital antenna could revolutionize the future of mobile phones

Researchers at Aalto University have developed a method to combine several small antenna elements into a single digitally controlled antenna, which speeds up data transfer and improves reception. This new technology has the potential to reach data transfer speeds 100-1000 times faster than current phones and improve battery life.

SourceAalto University·JournalIEEE Antennas and Wireless Propagation Letters·DateAug 31, 2016

Cell phone conversations hinder child pedestrian crossing abilities -- Ben Gurion U. study

A study by Ben-Gurion University of the Negev found that cell phone conversations significantly impact children's ability to safely cross roads, slowing their reaction times and reducing visual attention. The study suggests that increasing public awareness among young pedestrians can help improve road safety.

To catch a wireless thief

Researchers are developing a crowdsourced system that allows users to contribute in helping detect and locate unauthorized radio frequency use. The system uses software-defined radio technology and smartphone apps to monitor for suspicious activity, potentially aiding authorities in combating wireless theft.

Ben-Gurion University study examines the 'gray divide' regarding mobile phone use

A Ben-Gurion University study found that most seniors use mobile phones for basic functions like calling and texting, but struggle with more advanced features. Researchers suggest improving mobile literacy can help older adults reap the benefits of mobile technology for better mental and physical health.

SourceAmerican Associates, Ben-Gurion University of the Negev·JournalMobile Media & Communication·DateMay 25, 2016

Using cellphone data to study the spread of cholera

Researchers at EPFL used mobile phone records to reconstruct the spread of a cholera epidemic in Senegal in 2005, revealing critical roles of human mobility patterns and sanitation infrastructure. The study's findings highlight measures to improve sanitation at transmission hotspots as key to reducing future outbreak progression.

SourceEcole Polytechnique Fédérale de Lausanne·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateMay 23, 2016

A new mobile phone app for grassroots mapping

Researchers at the University of Exeter have developed an Android mobile app that harnesses the capabilities of modern smartphones to generate spatial data for mapping landscapes. The app uses on-board sensors in smartphones, including GPS, compass, and camera, along with lightweight drones or kites, to capture high-quality images.

SourceUniversity of Exeter·JournalPLOS ONE·DateMay 4, 2016

How is the quality of care in a commercial virtual visit?

A study published in JAMA Internal Medicine found that quality of care varied significantly among eight commercial virtual visit companies, with differences in diagnosis accuracy and adherence to guidelines. The variation was greater for certain conditions, such as viral pharyngitis and acute rhinosinusitis.

SourceJAMA Network·JournalJAMA Internal Medicine·DateApr 4, 2016

Argonne continues to pave way for improved battery performance testing

Argonne National Laboratory scientists have developed a new method for improving lithium-ion battery performance testing, utilizing a tiny measurement device called a reference electrode. The design enhances the quantity and quality of information extracted from battery cells during cycling, providing crucial insights into battery health.

SourceDOE/Argonne National Laboratory·JournalJournal of The Electrochemical Society·DateMar 31, 2016