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How a cold gets into cells

Researchers at Vienna University of Technology have developed a new method to analyze the process of RNA transfer from viruses into human cells. This breakthrough could lead to the development of new drugs that prevent this precise RNA transfer.

SourceVienna University of Technology·JournalAnalytical and Bioanalytical Chemistry·DateJun 20, 2016

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

In a connected world, privacy becomes a group effort

A study by Penn State researchers reveals that social media users act autonomously on some privacy issues but become interdependent when information is co-owned by multiple users. Participants relied on strategies like group discussions and private groups to manage privacy rights for group content.

Travels with my smart phone

Research suggests that relying on smartphones for internet access while traveling can cause significant anxiety. The study, conducted by Hui-Jen Yang and Yun-Long Lay, found that young people and those with higher levels of education experience greater 'smart phone web-dependence' and associated anxiety.

SourceInderscience Publishers·JournalInternational Journal of Information and Communication Technology·DateApr 6, 2016

Improved patient outcomes linked to specific health IT resources in hospitals

A University of Missouri researcher found that certain IT capabilities, including on-site IT professionals and IT infrastructure designed for patient care, boost employee productivity and lead to improved patient care in U.S. hospitals. The study suggests that hospitals with these resources can deliver more effective health information...

SourceUniversity of Missouri-Columbia·JournalHealth Care Management Review·DateMar 31, 2016

Topological insulators: Magnetism is not causing loss of conductivity

Researchers have shown that magnetism does not cause topological insulators to lose their conductivity. Instead, they found a band gap that is significantly larger than predicted by theory and involves a different causal mechanism. The study suggests that scattering processes may be responsible for opening the band gap.

Brownian Carnot engine

ICFO researchers create a microscopic Carnot engine that operates between two thermal baths using a temperature difference, exactly as car engines work. The engine is powered by a single particle, lasers, and electrical fields, allowing for the experimental validation of thermodynamic principles.

SourceICFO-The Institute of Photonic Sciences·JournalNature Physics·DateOct 27, 2015

Active senior travelers have different approaches to technology

A study by the University of Eastern Finland found that active senior travelers can be divided into three groups: Adventurous Experimenters, Meticulous Researchers, and Fumbling Observers. The use of technology is closely linked to travel behavior, and each group has unique preferences for destination choice and information technology ...

SourceUniversity of Eastern Finland·JournalInformation Technology & Tourism·DateSep 28, 2015

The Lancet: New study reveals 40 million deaths a year go unrecorded

A new study by The Lancet reveals that two-thirds of global deaths and one-third of births go unreported. This lack of data hampers informed policy-making and decision-making, leading to lost opportunities to improve population health. Mobile phone data collection and technology advances are proposed as solutions to crack the problem.

SourceThe Lancet·JournalThe Lancet·DateMay 11, 2015

Nonstop shopping

Researchers found that mobile shoppers tend to purchase items they've purchased before or from familiar brands, due to limited smartphone screen size. Low spenders also shop more frequently after adopting mobile shopping, leading to larger orders.

SourceJournal of Retailing at New York University·JournalJournal of Retailing·DateMay 5, 2015

No quick fixes for developing world's solid waste management crisis

A study published in Waste Management highlights the need for a multi-dimensional approach to managing solid waste in developing countries. The research emphasizes the importance of considering environmental, socio-cultural, legal, institutional, and economic linkages in implementing effective waste management systems.

SourceElsevier·JournalWaste Management·DateApr 29, 2015

OSU innovation boosts Wi-Fi bandwidth tenfold

Researchers at Oregon State University have invented a technology that can increase WiFi bandwidth by 10 times, reducing congestion in crowded locations and homes with multiple devices. The system uses inexpensive components and integrates with existing WiFi systems, enabling faster data transfer rates up to 100 megabits per second.