Friday, May 1, 2009

14-Year-Old Surgeon Wows Medical Professionals


Florida has developed a new stitching technique that could possibly transform surgical procedures around the world. Perhaps the most fascinating detail is the researcher is a 14-year-old high school freshman.

Tony Hansberry II has created a new way to sew up hysterectomy patients in efforts to reduce the risks of post surgical complications and simplify the delicate procedure for less experienced surgeons, reports Jacksonville News. So far, the young man has only performed the surgery on dummies but has managed to fascinate the medical community enough to peak the interests of seasoned surgeons. On April 24 Hansberry presented his findings in the University of Florida's medical auditorium packed with board-certified physicians, with established practices older than Hansberry, eager to see what medical phenomenon awaits.

"I just want to help people and be respected, knowing that I can save lives," Hansberry said. He insists his extraordinary achievements are simply stepping stones to his aspirations of becoming a University of Florida-trained neurosurgeon.

Hansberry, whose mother is a registered nurse, is student at Darnell-Cookman Middle/High School - a magnet school with a primary focus of medical studies. For example, students will have mastered suturing techniques by the eighth grade. Last summer the 14-year-old interned at the University of Florida's Center for Simulation Education and Safety Research, where he began his research.

At the simulation center, where medical residents and nurses practice on dummies, the bashful student took a liking to Bruce Nappi, the center's administrative director. Nappi recognized the student's enthusiasm to learn and encouraged him to explore his medical know-how.

Genes 'have key role in autism'


Scientists have produced the most compelling evidence to date that genetics play a key role in autism.

They highlighted tiny genetic changes that appear to have a strong impact on the likelihood of developing autism and related conditions.

The changes influence genes which help form and maintain connections between brain cells.

The Nature study highlighted one common genetic variant which, if corrected would cut cases of autism by 15%.

Previously, other genetic variants have been linked to autism, but they are all relatively rare.

Sim Card Spy Ear Remote Listening Device


Another day another covert gadget designed for spying on friends, family, co-workers and anyone else you just don’t trust. The Spy Ear though doesn’t require years of special spy training at MI6 to use. All you have to do is stick your SIM card into the device and call it from another phone. Once you’re connected you can just sit back and listen to what’s going on in the room where you’ve secretly planted it.

In theory since it relies on the GSM phone network the Spy Ear should work all over the world as long as the rechargeable batteries hold out and it’s in the range of a cell tower. Of course if you do plan to use the device internationally you might want to make sure you have a good roaming plan.

The Spy Ear is currently available from Brando.com.hk for $85.