Articles tagged with Blindness
Comprehensive exploration of living organisms, biological systems, and life processes across all scales from molecules to ecosystems. Encompasses cutting-edge research in biology, genetics, molecular biology, ecology, biochemistry, microbiology, botany, zoology, evolutionary biology, genomics, and biotechnology. Investigates cellular mechanisms, organism development, genetic inheritance, biodiversity conservation, metabolic processes, protein synthesis, DNA sequencing, CRISPR gene editing, stem cell research, and the fundamental principles governing all forms of life on Earth.
Comprehensive medical research, clinical studies, and healthcare sciences focused on disease prevention, diagnosis, and treatment. Encompasses clinical medicine, public health, pharmacology, epidemiology, medical specialties, disease mechanisms, therapeutic interventions, healthcare innovation, precision medicine, telemedicine, medical devices, drug development, clinical trials, patient care, mental health, nutrition science, health policy, and the application of medical science to improve human health, wellbeing, and quality of life across diverse populations.
Comprehensive investigation of human society, behavior, relationships, and social structures through systematic research and analysis. Encompasses psychology, sociology, anthropology, economics, political science, linguistics, education, demography, communications, and social research methodologies. Examines human cognition, social interactions, cultural phenomena, economic systems, political institutions, language and communication, educational processes, population dynamics, and the complex social, cultural, economic, and political forces shaping human societies, communities, and civilizations throughout history and across the contemporary world.
Fundamental study of the non-living natural world, matter, energy, and physical phenomena governing the universe. Encompasses physics, chemistry, earth sciences, atmospheric sciences, oceanography, materials science, and the investigation of physical laws, chemical reactions, geological processes, climate systems, and planetary dynamics. Explores everything from subatomic particles and quantum mechanics to planetary systems and cosmic phenomena, including energy transformations, molecular interactions, elemental properties, weather patterns, tectonic activity, and the fundamental forces and principles underlying the physical nature of reality.
Practical application of scientific knowledge and engineering principles to solve real-world problems and develop innovative technologies. Encompasses all engineering disciplines, technology development, computer science, artificial intelligence, environmental sciences, agriculture, materials applications, energy systems, and industrial innovation. Bridges theoretical research with tangible solutions for infrastructure, manufacturing, computing, communications, transportation, construction, sustainable development, and emerging technologies that advance human capabilities, improve quality of life, and address societal challenges through scientific innovation and technological progress.
Study of the practice, culture, infrastructure, and social dimensions of science itself. Addresses how science is conducted, organized, communicated, and integrated into society. Encompasses research funding mechanisms, scientific publishing systems, peer review processes, academic ethics, science policy, research institutions, scientific collaboration networks, science education, career development, research programs, scientific methods, science communication, and the sociology of scientific discovery. Examines the human, institutional, and cultural aspects of scientific enterprise, knowledge production, and the translation of research into societal benefit.
Comprehensive study of the universe beyond Earth, encompassing celestial objects, cosmic phenomena, and space exploration. Includes astronomy, astrophysics, planetary science, cosmology, space physics, astrobiology, and space technology. Investigates stars, galaxies, planets, moons, asteroids, comets, black holes, nebulae, exoplanets, dark matter, dark energy, cosmic microwave background, stellar evolution, planetary formation, space weather, solar system dynamics, the search for extraterrestrial life, and humanity's efforts to explore, understand, and unlock the mysteries of the cosmos through observation, theory, and space missions.
Comprehensive examination of tools, techniques, methodologies, and approaches used across scientific disciplines to conduct research, collect data, and analyze results. Encompasses experimental procedures, analytical methods, measurement techniques, instrumentation, imaging technologies, spectroscopic methods, laboratory protocols, observational studies, statistical analysis, computational methods, data visualization, quality control, and methodological innovations. Addresses the practical techniques and theoretical frameworks enabling scientists to investigate phenomena, test hypotheses, gather evidence, ensure reproducibility, and generate reliable knowledge through systematic, rigorous investigation across all areas of scientific inquiry.
Study of abstract structures, patterns, quantities, relationships, and logical reasoning through pure and applied mathematical disciplines. Encompasses algebra, calculus, geometry, topology, number theory, analysis, discrete mathematics, mathematical logic, set theory, probability, statistics, and computational mathematics. Investigates mathematical structures, theorems, proofs, algorithms, functions, equations, and the rigorous logical frameworks underlying quantitative reasoning. Provides the foundational language and tools for all scientific fields, enabling precise description of natural phenomena, modeling of complex systems, and the development of technologies across physics, engineering, computer science, economics, and all quantitative sciences.
The prevalence of age-related macular degeneration (AMD) is estimated to be 1.47% in the US population aged 40 and older, with an expected increase to 2.95 million cases by 2020. The risk of AMD increases dramatically with age, especially among white individuals.
A study estimates that 937,000 Americans are blind, with white persons affected by age-related macular degeneration. The prevalence of visual impairment is expected to increase due to aging, with blacks and Hispanics more likely to be affected by cataracts and glaucoma.
Diabetic retinopathy, a leading eye complication in people with type 1 diabetes, affects nearly 774,000 Americans under age 30. The prevalence is highest among 40-49 year olds and older, driven by aging US population.
A portable, wearable device called Tyflos enables visually impaired individuals to conduct daily tasks efficiently. The device uses computer vision and robotics technology to convert images into audio information, allowing users to navigate and interact with their environment.
A new study reveals uveitis is more prevalent than previously estimated, with nearly 1,000 patients in northern California affected. The disease affects over 280,000 people in the US each year, leading to 30,000 new cases of blindness annually.
Children with optic nerve disease are up to 20 times more likely to experience excessive daytime sleepiness due to disruptions in their body's internal clock. Researchers found that the loss of a specific type of cell in the retina, which helps regulate light exposure, is directly linked to sleep disturbances.
Researchers found that early treatment reduced the likelihood of poor vision from 19.5% to 14.5% and structural damage from 15.6% to 9.1% in high-risk premature infants. The study, published in the Archives of Ophthalmology, identified risk factors for ROP and showed that prompt treatment can prevent severe vision loss.
A large study found that consuming higher amounts of dietary fats, particularly vegetable and animal fats, was associated with an increased risk of progression to advanced age-related macular degeneration. In contrast, fish and nut consumption reduced the risk of AMD progression.
A recent study on sensory interaction found that the brain amplifies information from sight and smell when they fit together well, leading to a stronger perception of odors. Additionally, research on blind individuals revealed that their sense of touch is not inferior to sighted people's, contrary to popular belief.
Childhood visual impairment and blindness in the UK are more common and severe than assumed, often linked to complex disabilities and increased mortality rates. The study highlights the need for new interventions to address this largely insurmountable burden of blinding eye disease in industrialized countries.
Researchers at McGill University Health Centre identify two key gene mutations in French-Canadian families with retinitis pigmentosa. The study reveals variable and severe symptoms, including hearing loss. The breakthrough promises new screening and diagnostic tests for affected families.
Researchers have identified a molecular understanding of the abnormal proteins causing retinitis pigmentosa, a degenerative eye disease. They will now focus on designing effective drugs to delay disease progression by stabilizing the mutated rhodopsin protein.
Researchers discovered that visually impaired individuals like Michael May struggle with object and face recognition due to delayed development of these processes. Despite challenges, May has made progress in interpreting motion and shading cues, adapting to his new visual world.
The American Academy of Ophthalmology has awarded Special Recognition Awards to Mr. McManus for his dedication to vision research, and Dr. Jones and Dr. Brown for their innovative research and humanitarian efforts. The awards recognize their contributions to the field of ophthalmology.
A study found that 90% of trachoma infections occur in children under 10 years old in Tanzania and The Gambia. The SAFE strategy, which includes surgery, antibiotics, facial cleanliness, and environmental improvements, is key to eliminating trachoma by 2020.
Scientists have discovered a layer of cells in the inner retina containing melanopsin, which enables certain animals to synchronize their biological rhythms with day/night cycles. Melanopsin-free mice were unable to react normally to light stimuli and synchronize their rhythms.
A study by Hebrew University researcher Dr. Ehud Zohary found that blind people's brains reorganize to process touch and memory, leading to superior verbal memory skills. The research opens a window into understanding cortical plasticity in brain systems, potentially leading to improved treatment for neurodegenerative diseases.
The VISION 2020 initiative has the potential to reduce avoidable blindness by nearly two-thirds, saving $102 billion and 429 million blind person-years worldwide. Researchers estimate that economic productivity loss due to blindness could grow from $42 billion to $110 billion if prevention efforts fail.
Trachoma is a substantial global burden, with millions blinded worldwide and estimated annual costs of $2.9 billion. Future research should consider the broader impact of trachoma on disability beyond visual loss, according to the study's authors.
Researchers found that high-risk trachoma patients are unwilling to pay for future antibiotics, even if they can use household items as payment. This could limit the government's ability to control the disease and its progression.
A new study confirms that Braille is crucial for visual cortex development in blind individuals, regardless of age of blindness. The research used fMRI to compare early and late blind subjects, finding similar activation patterns in the visual cortex.
A study by University of Washington psychologists reveals infants' ability to gaze follow is crucial for learning language and understanding emotions, with open eyes leading to longer attention and more vocalization. By 14 months, infants become sensitive to potential obstacles and can initiate pointing and babbling towards objects.
A recent study found that eye drops can delay the onset of glaucoma by reducing intraocular pressure by approximately 20%. The Ocular Hypertension Treatment Study (OHTS) followed 1,636 participants with elevated eye pressure and showed a significant reduction in glaucoma development among those who received treatment. This breakthrough...
A pioneering neurosurgeon has successfully implanted an artificial vision system in eight blind patients, enabling them to drive cars and navigate their surroundings. The device, developed by the Dobelle Institute, stimulates the brain's visual cortex to create a semblance of sight.
A new drug could provide a non-destructive way to treat blindness in diabetics, blocking the pathway that causes damage. The drug is currently being tested in clinical trials and has been funded by $4.7 million from the US-based JDRF and NHMRC.
Raman Imaging of Human Macular Pigments demonstrates a rapid screening technique for macular degeneration using Raman spectroscopy. The method provides insight into individual variations in spatial profiles and total amounts of macular carotenoid pigments.
Researchers have discovered genetic mutations in dogs that mirror the genetic mutations of humans with inherited blindness, providing new insights into photoreceptor cell degeneration. The study has potential implications for treating both canine and human retinal diseases, including progressive retinitis pigmentosa.
Researchers have discovered a genetic mutation in English mastiffs that causes retinal dysfunction and degeneration, mirroring human dominant retinitis pigmentosa. The study aims to find treatments and cures for inherited forms of blindness in humans by testing therapies first in dogs.
Researchers at Virginia Tech are developing injectable magnetic fluids to repair torn or detached retinas, a technique that could help prevent blindness in thousands. The treatment appears promising in laboratory studies, with the potential to be more precise and effective than current methods.
A recent study found that glaucoma was the most common cause of blindness among Hispanics, accounting for 0.3% of the population, with open-angle glaucoma being the leading cause. The prevalence of visual impairment increased with age, with cataract and age-related macular degeneration also being significant causes.
A study found that blind individuals using Braille reading strategies activate areas of the brain normally reserved for vision, suggesting a novel way of utilizing occipital cortex. This activation is similar to what is observed in sighted individuals when reading print or receiving tactile stimulation.
Researchers found that high-dose, short-term chlorambucil treatment resulted in sustained inflammation reduction for 77% of patients with severe, non-infectious uveitis. The study's findings suggest that chlorambucil may become a preferred treatment option for these patients.
Researchers found that brains of blind-from-birth individuals exhibited unique activation patterns when reading Braille, suggesting a distinct mental imagery related to language. The study suggests that early visual experience may hinder brain plasticity in certain areas.
Researchers have successfully used gene therapy to reduce new blood vessel growth by up to 90% in mice with conditions similar to macular degeneration and diabetic retinopathy. Two genes, endostatin and pigment epithelium-derived factor (PEDF), were injected into the animals' eyes or tails to demonstrate the potential of gene therapy a...
A new telehealth technology called I-SITE is being used to fight a growing epidemic of diabetic blindness in First Nation Canadian communities. The system has successfully diagnosed and treated diabetic retinopathy, saving eyesight in patients who would otherwise have gone blind.
Researchers have identified the molecule transported by Rim protein in photoreceptor cells, a key factor in the development of Stargardt's disease and age-related macular degeneration. By understanding this process, scientists may be able to develop new treatments to slow or prevent the progression of these diseases.
Researchers developed the Ocutech autofocus telescope, which enables people with macular degeneration to see clearly for the first time. The device has been praised for its comfort and convenience, allowing users to see blackboards, read signs, and watch birds without manual focus.
Researchers at the University of Rochester discovered that Alzheimer's patients suffer from motion blindness, a condition where they struggle to interpret visual cues, leading to disorientation. This can be a significant factor in their daily lives, including driving and navigating familiar environments. The study's findings may lead t...
A study by Harvard Medical School reveals that growth hormone blocks the formation of new retinal blood vessels, which can cause blindness. The findings suggest new treatments may prevent blindness related to this condition.
The Ocutech VES AutoFocus Telescope is the world's first self-focusing telescopic glasses for the visually impaired, developed by Dr. Henry Greene and his team. The device can help several million people in the US alone, providing improved vision and recognition of faces and objects.