A large US study confirms a strong link between ED medications and vision problems, including an 85% increased risk of developing serious eye conditions. Regular use of Viagra, Cialis, Levitra, or Stendra may lead to side effects such as age-related macular degeneration (AMD) and retinal vein occlusion (RVO).
SourceUniversity of British Columbia·JournalJAMA Ophthalmology·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateApr 7, 2022
A study published in Ophthalmology identified the genetic spectrum behind foveal hypoplasia, a rare condition affecting vision development. The research combined data from over 900 cases across the globe and revealed relationships between genetic defects and the degree of arrested foveal development.
SourceUniversity of Leicester·JournalOphthalmology·TypeObservational study·DateApr 6, 2022
Conjunctival goblet cells play a crucial role in tear film stability, and their dysfunction is linked to various ocular surface diseases. A new microscopy system allows for non-invasive examination of CGCs in live animal models and humans, enabling precise diagnosis and treatment of ocular surface diseases.
SourcePohang University of Science & Technology (POSTECH)·JournalIEEE Transactions on Medical Imaging·DateApr 6, 2022
Garmin GPSMAP 67i with inReach
Garmin GPSMAP 67i with inReach provides rugged GNSS navigation, satellite messaging, and SOS for backcountry geology and climate field teams.
Researchers found a strong connection between retinal layer thickness and brain volume, suggesting retina assessments as a potential biomarker for brain atrophy. Thinner retinal layers correlated with reduced brain white matter and hippocampus volume.
SourceDZNE - German Center for Neurodegenerative Diseases·JournalScientific Reports·TypeObservational study·DateMar 15, 2022
A recent study published in JAMA Ophthalmology found that depression is associated with more severe dry eye disease symptoms and overall signs. The analysis of data from a randomized clinical trial revealed this significant connection among 535 participants.
SourceJAMA Network·JournalJAMA Ophthalmology·DateMar 10, 2022
Researchers have developed an ultrasonic retinal prosthesis that can stimulate the blind retina to transmit signals to the brain, providing a promising solution for vision restoration. The device uses ultrasound waves to activate small groups of neurons in the eye, similar to how light signals activate a normal eye.
SourceBMEF (BME Frontiers)·JournalBMEF (BME Frontiers)·DateMar 8, 2022
Researchers have discovered that sigma 1 receptor plays a crucial role in protecting retinal ganglion cells from damage in glaucoma. The protein enables astrocytes to secrete supportive factors for neurons, improving their survival and function.
SourceMedical College of Georgia at Augusta University·JournalInvestigative Ophthalmology & Visual Science·DateMar 1, 2022
A study published in Nutrients found that consuming a small serving of dried goji berries five times a week for 90 days increased lutein and zeaxanthin levels in healthy participants' eyes. This increase provides antioxidant protection and filters out harmful blue light, potentially delaying age-related vision loss.
SourceUniversity of California - Davis·JournalNutrients·TypeRandomized controlled/clinical trial·DateJan 13, 2022
SAMSUNG T9 Portable SSD 2TB
SAMSUNG T9 Portable SSD 2TB transfers large imagery and model outputs quickly between field laptops, lab workstations, and secure archives.
The Nixon Visions Foundation has given a significant gift to support studies of the PRPH2 gene linked to macular dystrophy and boost stem cell research aimed at developing early diagnosis and a cure for this devastating genetic eye disease. Researchers hope to make a tremendous impact on people with this inherited eye disease.
A study published in JAMA Ophthalmology found that COVID-19 public health measures, such as social distancing and travel restrictions, were associated with a decrease in pink eye emergency department visits. The findings suggest these measures may have helped reduce the spread of infectious conjunctivitis.
SourceJAMA Network·JournalJAMA Ophthalmology·DateNov 18, 2021
Researchers discovered that retinal pigment epithelium cells release exosomes containing normal proteins and those associated with drusen, a key AMD manifestation. This finding may lead to early diagnosis through biomarker detection in blood, tears, or saliva, potentially treating millions of Americans before geographic atrophy onset.
SourceUniversity of Colorado Anschutz Medical Campus·JournalJournal of Extracellular Vesicles·DateNov 12, 2021
Scientists at St Petersburg University have developed a new organic compound that can 'switch' its biological activity on demand under exposure to light, increasing precision and safety in affecting human body cells. The phosphonate can be used in various medical spheres, including ophthalmology and neurodegenerative diseases.
SourceSt. Petersburg State University·JournalNew Journal of Chemistry·DateOct 25, 2021
Apple iPad Pro 11-inch (M4)
Apple iPad Pro 11-inch (M4) runs demanding GIS, imaging, and annotation workflows on the go for surveys, briefings, and lab notebooks.
A recent study published in the British Journal of Ophthalmology found that individuals with clinically significant cataracts have a higher risk of dying from strokes and heart attacks. The study analyzed data from over 14,000 participants and found that the risk of death was 36% higher for those who had undergone cataract surgery.
SourceBMJ Group·JournalBritish Journal of Ophthalmology·TypeObservational study·DateOct 25, 2021
Optical coherence tomography (OCT) has significant growth potential across various medical applications, including cardiology and dermatology. Miniaturized OCT systems are expected to revolutionize healthcare with compact, mobile, and cost-effective devices.
SourceSPIE--International Society for Optics and Photonics·JournalJournal of Biomedical Optics·TypeSystematic review·DateOct 21, 2021
Researchers from the University of Bonn have found that reading ability is a crucial indicator of functional loss in people with geographic atrophy, a late form of age-related macular degeneration. Reading speed and performance are essential for measuring everyday functional impairment.
SourceUniversity of Bonn·JournalJAMA Ophthalmology·TypeExperimental study·DateSep 30, 2021
Researchers at University of Illinois Chicago found a potential direct connection between neurodegenerative diseases, such as Alzheimer's disease, amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS), glaucoma, and herpesvirus. The study suggests OPTN protein restricts HSV-1 virus spread in cells.
SourceUniversity of Illinois Chicago·JournalNature Communications·TypeExperimental study·DateSep 13, 2021
A study published in the British Journal of Ophthalmology found that age-related macular degeneration, cataract, and diabetes-related eye disease are independently associated with an increased risk of dementia. In contrast, glaucoma was not linked to Alzheimer's disease but was associated with a higher risk of vascular dementia.
SourceBMJ Group·JournalBritish Journal of Ophthalmology·TypeObservational study·DateSep 13, 2021
Apple iPhone 17 Pro
Apple iPhone 17 Pro delivers top performance and advanced cameras for field documentation, data collection, and secure research communications.
A study published in the British Journal of Ophthalmology found nerve fibre damage and an increase in dendritic cells on the eye surface may be identifying features of 'long COVID'. Patients with neurological symptoms showed greater corneal nerve fibre loss and higher dendritic cell density compared to those without symptoms.
SourceBMJ Group·JournalBritish Journal of Ophthalmology·DateJul 26, 2021
A new study shows that a wearable computer vision device can reduce collisions for both people who are blind or those who are visually impaired and using a long cane and/or guide dog. The device was found to be 37 percent effective in reducing collision incidents, providing an additional travel safety measure.
SourceMass Eye and Ear·JournalJAMA Ophthalmology·DateJul 22, 2021
Researchers developed classification criteria using machine learning to standardize language and identify characteristics that distinguish each disease. The criteria have been validated with over 90% accuracy within uveitic class.
SourceNIH/National Eye Institute·JournalAmerican Journal of Ophthalmology·DateJun 7, 2021
A large-scale study found that high caffeine intake may increase the risk of glaucoma by three-fold in individuals with a strong family history. Caffeine consumption above 480mg daily was associated with higher intraocular pressure and increased glaucoma prevalence.
SourceThe Mount Sinai Hospital / Mount Sinai School of Medicine·JournalOphthalmology·DateJun 7, 2021
A study investigated racial/ethnic representation in ophthalmology drug trials approved by the FDA. It found significant disparities, highlighting a need for increased diversity in clinical trial participation.
SourceJAMA Network·JournalJAMA Ophthalmology·DateApr 22, 2021
Rigol DP832 Triple-Output Bench Power Supply
Rigol DP832 Triple-Output Bench Power Supply powers sensors, microcontrollers, and test circuits with programmable rails and stable outputs.
Researchers at Einstein College of Medicine developed a topical drug that regenerates and restores function of erectile nerves damaged by radical prostatectomy. The siRNA gel enhanced nerve regeneration and restored nerve function in rat models, restoring erectile function.
SourceAlbert Einstein College of Medicine·JournalJCI Insight·DateApr 19, 2021
Researchers found that about 25% of study participants developed vision loss from glaucoma, a lower rate than expected. The conventional thinking was that most patients with elevated eye pressure should receive treatment due to high costs and potential side effects.
SourceWashU Medicine·JournalJAMA Ophthalmology·DateApr 15, 2021
Researchers at Penn Medicine have developed an RNA therapy that reversed blindness in a patient with a rare genetic disorder, improving vision over a 15-month period after a single injection. The treatment's durability and effectiveness provide new avenues for treating other ciliopathies.
SourceUniversity of Pennsylvania School of Medicine·JournalNature Medicine·DateApr 1, 2021
Research published in British Journal of Ophthalmology found that normal-tension glaucoma is associated with an increased risk of cognitive impairment and possibly dementia. The study suggests that the disease pathways for normal-tension glaucoma may be similar to those for dementia.
SourceBMJ Group·JournalBritish Journal of Ophthalmology·DateMar 29, 2021
Anker Laptop Power Bank 25,000mAh (Triple 100W USB-C)
Anker Laptop Power Bank 25,000mAh (Triple 100W USB-C) keeps Macs, tablets, and meters powered during extended observing runs and remote surveys.
A new study has identified genetic variations that may contribute to the development of keratoconus, a progressive eye condition causing sight loss. The findings could lead to earlier diagnosis and potentially new therapeutic targets.
SourceUniversity of Leeds·JournalCommunications Biology·DateMar 1, 2021
Researchers analyzed genes in over 34,000 people with glaucoma and found 44 new genetic variants that may lead to new treatment targets. The study's findings aim to improve screening and diagnosis of glaucoma, as well as develop new treatments for this incurable eye disease.
SourceMass Eye and Ear·JournalNature Communications·DateFeb 24, 2021
A recent study by University College London researchers found that people living in areas with high levels of air pollution, particularly fine particulate matter, are at increased risk of developing AMD. The study suggests that improving air quality could be a key public health priority to reduce the risk of eye disease.
SourceUniversity College London·JournalBritish Journal of Ophthalmology·DateJan 25, 2021
Researchers found that medicated drops can close small macular holes within two to eight weeks, allowing some patients to avoid surgery. The treatment was most effective for patients with holes less than 200 micrometers in diameter, and showed promise as an alternative to traditional vitrectomy surgery.
SourceUniversity of Chicago Medical Center·JournalOphthalmology Retina·DateJan 21, 2021
Researchers investigated the association between COVID-19 home confinement and myopia development in Chinese school-age children. The study found a significant increase in the progression of myopia after COVID-19 home confinement, highlighting the potential impact of prolonged screen time on eye health.
SourceJAMA Network·JournalJAMA Ophthalmology·DateJan 14, 2021
DJI Air 3 (RC-N2)
DJI Air 3 (RC-N2) captures 4K mapping passes and environmental surveys with dual cameras, long flight time, and omnidirectional obstacle sensing.
The Hamilton Eye Institute at University of Tennessee Health Science Center has received a $300,000 RPB Challenge Grant to continue its vision research initiatives. The grant will support the expansion of research faculty, innovative pilot studies, and new equipment for the institute's research efforts.
SourceUniversity of Tennessee Health Science Center·DateJan 5, 2021
A study published in Science Translational Medicine shows that MEK inhibitors can stimulate PAX6 expression in the eye of mice with aniridia, partially normalizing their eye development. Researchers also found that topical administration of the drug enhanced PAX6 and cleared corneas, allowing mice to see better.
SourceUniversity of Illinois Chicago·JournalScience Translational Medicine·DateDec 17, 2020
Children who undergo cataract surgery as infants have a 22% risk of developing glaucoma by age 10. Lifelong monitoring is crucial to preventing vision loss due to increased eye pressure and optic nerve damage.
SourceNIH/National Eye Institute·JournalJAMA Ophthalmology·DateDec 17, 2020
A multi-university team identified a family of enzymes called GCK-IV kinases that inhibit robustly neuroprotective while allowing axon regeneration. This finding suggests strong therapeutic possibilities for treating neurodegenerative diseases such as glaucoma and Alzheimer's.
Apple Watch Series 11 (GPS, 46mm)
Apple Watch Series 11 (GPS, 46mm) tracks health metrics and safety alerts during long observing sessions, fieldwork, and remote expeditions.
A study by Anglia Ruskin University found that COVID-19 can cause various eye symptoms, with 16% of respondents reporting sore eyes as a symptom. The researchers argue that sore eyes should replace conjunctivitis as a possible COVID-19 symptom due to its differentiation from other types of infections.
SourceAnglia Ruskin University·JournalBMJ Open Ophthalmology·DateDec 8, 2020
Scientists at Scripps Research Institute have uncovered a potential new strategy for treating eye diseases, including age-related macular degeneration and diabetic retinopathy. A fragment of the protein CITED2 has been shown to reduce neovascularization while preserving healthy blood vessels in mouse models.
SourceScripps Research Institute·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateOct 27, 2020
A UCI-led study demonstrates the therapeutic potential of base editing for treating inherited ocular diseases, restoring visual function to near-normal levels. The new CRISPR technology overcomes previous barriers, enabling precise and predictable correction of point mutations.
SourceUniversity of California - Irvine·JournalNature Biomedical Engineering·DateOct 19, 2020
Researchers analyzed surgical outcomes in Swedish cataract surgeries from 2007-2016, finding that high-volume surgeons had a lower proportion of severe cases and complications. The study suggests that surgeons can improve patient safety by understanding the impact of case mix on outcomes.
SourceUniversity of Gothenburg·JournalOphthalmology·DateOct 2, 2020
Meta Quest 3 512GB
Meta Quest 3 512GB enables immersive mission planning, terrain rehearsal, and interactive STEM demos with high-resolution mixed-reality experiences.
Federal regulations severely limit corneal donations from gay and bisexual men, preventing thousands of potential patients from receiving vision-restoring surgery. A new study finds that the restrictions are not supported by current science and could save thousands of lives.
SourceUniversity of Colorado Anschutz Medical Campus·JournalJAMA Ophthalmology·DateSep 24, 2020
A groundbreaking LSU Health study reveals that nonharmful stress can protect against disease in offspring, reprogramming heritability to promote resilience. The research used mild systemic hypoxia to trigger adaptive changes in adult mice, which were then passed on to their offspring.
SourceLouisiana State University Health Sciences Center·JournalInvestigative Ophthalmology & Visual Science·DateSep 10, 2020
Scientists accelerated vision restoration by visualizing photoreceptors' response to light in the living eye. Researchers modified OCT technology to detect minute changes, enabling high-resolution visualization of cone photoreceptors and potential therapies like stem cells or gene therapy.
SourceUniversity of Washington School of Medicine/UW Medicine·JournalJournal of Mathematical Sciences Advances and Applications·DateSep 10, 2020
This observational study reports practice patterns among US ophthalmology practices for common ocular complaints during the initial stage of the COVID-19 pandemic. The study found that ophthalmology centers responded differently to common ocular complaints, highlighting the need for standardized care protocols.
SourceJAMA Network·JournalJAMA Ophthalmology·DateAug 5, 2020
Researchers investigated SARS-CoV-2 presence on environmental surfaces in an ophthalmology examination room. The study found detectable COVID-19 viral material on various surfaces, highlighting the need for infection control measures.
SourceJAMA Network·JournalJAMA Ophthalmology·DateAug 3, 2020
Sky-Watcher EQ6-R Pro Equatorial Mount
Sky-Watcher EQ6-R Pro Equatorial Mount provides precise tracking capacity for deep-sky imaging rigs during long astrophotography sessions.
A survey study analyzed the mental state and ocular surface state of ophthalmologists and ophthalmic nurses during the COVID-19 outbreak in China. The results revealed high stress levels among healthcare professionals, which negatively impacted their ocular surface health.
SourceJAMA Network·JournalJAMA Ophthalmology·DateJul 9, 2020
Researchers identified a critical early step in the visual process, discovering that rods and cones communicate primarily through connexin36 gap junctions. This understanding will aid in developing photoreceptor or retinal implants to restore vision.
SourceUniversity of Texas Health Science Center at Houston·JournalScience Advances·DateJul 8, 2020
Researchers at the University of Montreal have developed a synthetic, biocompatible liquid hydrogel that promotes tissue regeneration and treats corneal perforations without transplantation. This innovative solution has the potential to help patients retain their vision and avoid blindness.
SourceUniversity of Montreal·JournalScience Advances·DateJun 30, 2020
Researchers have identified conjunctivitis as a potential primary symptom of COVID-19, leading to changes in patient diagnosis and treatment protocols. Ophthalmologists are now taking extra precautions when treating patients with conjunctivitis and keratoconjunctivitis, including wearing personal protective equipment.
SourceUniversity of Alberta Faculty of Medicine & Dentistry·JournalCanadian Journal of Ophthalmology·DateJun 18, 2020
GoPro HERO13 Black
GoPro HERO13 Black records stabilized 5.3K video for instrument deployments, field notes, and outreach, even in harsh weather and underwater conditions.
A study by the University of Bonn shows that smartphone-based fundus imaging can detect diabetic retinopathy with high accuracy, even in early stages. The method allows for efficient screening and diagnosis, enabling trained laypersons to examine patients, reducing hospital visits.
SourceUniversity of Bonn·JournalOphthalmology·DateMay 25, 2020
Changes in ophthalmology practices and procedures have been reported following the COVID-19 pandemic, highlighting the need for adjustments to ensure patient safety and well-being. The study examines the impact of the pandemic on eye care services and provides insights into future directions for ophthalmology.
SourceJAMA Network·JournalJAMA Ophthalmology·DateMay 4, 2020
A new study found that very low doses of Avastin are effective in preventing blindness in preterm infants. The treatment was tested on 59 preterm infants with type 1 ROP and showed success in improving vision with minimal side effects.
SourceNIH/National Eye Institute·JournalJAMA Ophthalmology·DateApr 23, 2020
A recent study highlights various COVID-19 control measures being implemented at an ophthalmology center in Singapore to mitigate the pandemic's impact on patients and staff. The clinic has adopted several initiatives, including enhanced infection control protocols, telemedicine services, and patient triage procedures.
SourceJAMA Network·JournalJAMA Ophthalmology·DateMar 31, 2020
Apple MacBook Pro 14-inch (M4 Pro)
Apple MacBook Pro 14-inch (M4 Pro) powers local ML workloads, large datasets, and multi-display analysis for field and lab teams.
A recent study published in Ophthalmology found no virus detected in the tears of infected patients with COVID-19, suggesting a low risk of transmission through this route. The study's authors hope their findings will guide further research into preventing virus transmission through more significant routes.
SourceAmerican Academy of Ophthalmology·JournalOphthalmology·DateMar 25, 2020
A new study from the Joslin Diabetes Center reveals that ultra-wide field (UWF) fluorescein angiography detects over three times more microaneurysms than UWF color imaging, highlighting the need for cautious use of these techniques when evaluating and treating diabetic retinopathy. The research also suggests that AI can automate the gr...
SourceJoslin Diabetes Center·JournalBritish Journal of Ophthalmology·DateMar 5, 2020
A new Penn Medicine study found that missing a single ophthalmology appointment over a two-year period was associated with decreased visual acuity for patients with macular degeneration. Patients who attended more frequent visits had better visual outcomes, highlighting the importance of visit adherence for this patient population.
SourceUniversity of Pennsylvania School of Medicine·JournalJAMA Ophthalmology·DateFeb 6, 2020
A study by University of Michigan researchers sheds light on the role of WDR5 and p53 proteins in influencing stem cell fate, with implications for cancer research and potential treatments for heart disease. The team found that inducing a short delay in WDR5 expression steered embryonic stem cells towards different tissue types.
SourceMichigan Medicine - University of Michigan·JournalCell Reports·DateJan 14, 2020
A new UCL-led study found that living in a more polluted area is associated with a greater likelihood of having glaucoma, a debilitating eye condition that can cause blindness. People in areas with high levels of fine particulate matter pollution were 6% more likely to report having glaucoma than those in less-polluted areas.
SourceUniversity College London·JournalInvestigative Ophthalmology & Visual Science·DateNov 25, 2019
Apple AirPods Pro (2nd Generation, USB-C)
Apple AirPods Pro (2nd Generation, USB-C) provide clear calls and strong noise reduction for interviews, conferences, and noisy field environments.
Researchers developed a low-cost, portable OCT system that can image structures in hard-to-reach areas like joints. The device uses an endoscopic delivery system to provide real-time quantitative information on cartilage thickness without damaging the tissue.
Dr. Jennifer J. Lentz and her team will research a treatment for vision loss in Usher using antisense oligonucleotides, targeting the human 216A mutation in the USH1C gene. The goal is to develop an effective treatment for vision loss in Usher Syndrome.
SourceLouisiana State University Health Sciences Center·DateOct 22, 2019
Jayne S. Weiss, MD, has been awarded the 2020 Castroviejo Award for her outstanding work on corneal dystrophies, particularly Schnyder corneal dystrophy. Her research focuses on genetic mapping and pathophysiology of corneal diseases, making significant contributions to the field.
SourceLouisiana State University Health Sciences Center·DateOct 22, 2019