Scientists Build Artificial Leg From Smartphone Parts

By Margaret Rock

Researchers at Vanderbilt University created a more agile prosthetic leg using smartphone innovations, the latest example of how mobile technology is propelling medical advances. 

The Vanderbilt leg, weighing in less than most lower limbs at nine pounds, is unique in its ability to use computer, sensor, motor, and battery technology to better power knee and ankle joints in unison, allowing amputees to walk with a more natural gait. The prosthetic leg also senses ground slope and avoids obstructions to optimize balance.

The researchers' seven-year effort harnesses several technological advances made possible by smartphones, including microprocessors that use data to predict people's intended actions and prompts the device to respond. And, on one charge, the device can function at normal levels for about three days, requiring 30 to 40 percent less than an average person's energy to operate.more

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Smartphones or Sex?

By Joe Arico 

A national survey found that a third of Americans would rather give up sex than their smartphones, as mobile devices become even more rooted into people's lives. 

The survey by Telenav found people are more likely to give up a variety of habits instead of their smartphones. More than 50 percent of people would rather give up caffeine, chocolate or exercise than part with their iPhones or Blackberrys for a week, while a hygienically questionable 22 percent would be willing to part with their toothbrushes more

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