Leap motion sensor - Update

Coming in the spring of 2013 the new Leap motion sensor for a computer offers up some interesting possibilities for computer interaction.  If it works and is correctly applied it has the potential to reduce some repetitive motion injuries associate with using the mouse. I've included a demonstration video below.  The suggested retail price under $70 puts it in a competitive position.  It is supposed to work with the latest Windows and Apple operating systems.  More information at the Leap motion sensor website.

Sept. 2013, Unfortunately the reviews on Amazon have come in on the sensor and they are not kind. This technology does not appear ready for regular use. .  

http://www.youtube.com/embed/9vTI0c56vCc

Update:  The sensor will be going on sale May 13, 2013 online and at Best Buy May 19, 2013.
April 25, 2013 update - No it won't  the day is pushed back to July 22, 2012 according to Chloe Albanesius of PC Mag.  They would like to beta test it with a larger group starting in June, 2013.

Recent blog post by Edward C. Baig of USA today describes the interface in more detail.

FAST stroke signs

FAST is the new acronym to help people recognize strokes.  In a recent study, FAST identified 88.9% of  transient ischemic attack (TIA) stroke cases.  Quick medical treatment for a stroke reduces the extent of brain damage.

The Washington Post offers a comparison between methods of stroke intervention.  Directly working at the site of the stroke is not any better than adding a body wide clot dissolving compound.   Doctors are refining work at the site of the stroke and hope to improve the outcome.

This is a video about a news reporter, Serene Branson, who had a stroke during a live broadcast outside the Grammy awards

Turmeric side effects

Anecdotal evidence suggest that turmeric may have anti-inflammatory properties.  Individuals have used it as an alternative to NSAIDs (ibuprofen) because it has fewer long term problems with the liver or kidney.

According to WebMD, there are some side effects to consider.  Turmeric may cause excessive bleeding after a surgical procedure.  It also should not be taken in medicinal amounts during or prior to pregnancy because it can stimulate a menstrual cycle.  It can also make gallstones worse.   

For those of you interested Dr Weil has an anti-inflammatory diet listed here.  He suggests eating salmon and has several other helpful hints.

http://priconnects.wordpress.com/2012/03/15/turmeric-powder-a-blessing-2/

Turmeric Side effects - 2 minutes

Sound privacy in an open office

John Tierney in the Sydney Morning Herald reports on methods to reduce problems with auditory privacy in open offices.  Pink noise is pumped in via speakers to increase the background noise to allow people to have seperate conversations.  Other solutions include headphones and going to a private office to have conversations.  Other solultions include a low level sound of a river of water. 

This lake of aural privacy is a significant problem in areas where confidential conversations occur.  It is difficult to remain HIPAA compliant when the conversation can not be kept private.  Other problems with high density office environments include personal hygiene.  This varies from proper bathing and cleaning to perfumes in the office causing issues with those sensitive to the odors.   High density open areas increases the likelihood of theft and reduces the ability of individuals to work uninterupted and concentrate on tasks. 

The high density and low cost of materials allows for more people per square foot.  It may work in areas where the workers are out of the office for a significant period of time. 

Expect this issue to be debated in the future as designers and office workers work to find a workplace environment that is the best functional fit for the tasks to be accomplished.



http://www.healthcarebuildingideas.com/article/sound-masking-electronic-technology-acoustical-environment



Gopher stretch videos part 3

This is a shorter version of  the second gopher stretch video.  It focuses on beginner and intermediate poses both sitting and standing.  Two physical therapy graduate students from the U of MN demonstrated the techniques.  These exercises are a good way to start the day.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=9-epnvcgnKs

Gopher stretches for core muscles

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=WIUcEY3BI2I&feature=relmfu

This is the second in a series of  Gopher stretch videos with two Physical Therapy Program students from the University of Minnesota. These exercises are designed to increase the flexibility of core muscles.

Rapid Stress relief

The video below demonstrates three simple techniques for reducing stress and regaining control.  Deep complete breaths, touching a finger to the lips and washing hands with warm water all rapidly reduce stress.

 http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=A5BLsyUxD34

 Special thanks to Staci Samson and Dane Bonath for assisting on this video.