August Newsletter No. 293
Drug for dry age-related macular degeneration discovered
Scientists have shown that the blood protein vitronectin is a promising drug target for dry age-related macular degeneration (AMD), a leading cause of vision loss in Americans 60 years of age and older. The study, also has implications for Alzheimer’s and heart disease, which are linked to vitronectin.
Full details: https://www.technologynetworks.com/tn/news/drug-target-for-dry-age-related-macular-degeneration-discovered-337662
RNIB Bookshare reaches half a million books in accessible formats
An accessible book service from the Royal National Institute of Blind People (RNIB) is celebrating reaching half a million books. RNIB Bookshare, which supports print-disabled learners, has a vast UK education collection that provides textbooks and materials to support the UK curriculum from early years to adult education. The free service, which can be accessed by teachers, students and now parents in response to the Covid-19 pandemic, has a range of accessible formats so books can be read electronically or adapted to suit personal reading needs. Books for leisure reading are also available.
https://www.newtonnews.co.uk/rnib-bookshare-reaches-half-a-million-books-in-accessible-formats/
Technology student designs ‘robotic guide dog’
The product replicates the functions of a guide dog as well as programming quick and safe routes to destinations using real-time data.
In Scotland RNIB produce versions of Test and protect for people with sight loss
Sight loss charity RNIB Scotland will produce braille versions of the Scottish Government Test and Protect guidance relating to the current coronavirus situation. The move follows concerns that some blind and partially sighted people might be unable to access important health advice and guidance.
Belfast charity helping families see through the eyes of their visually impaired children with new VR technology
A new virtual reality headset is allowing families to see what life is like through the eyes of their visually impaired child.
https://www.belfastlive.co.uk/news/belfast-charity-helping-families-see-18662938