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Preventive treatment reduces diabetic retinopathy complications

A four-year clinical trial from the DRCR Retina Network found that early anti-VEGF injections slowed diabetic retinopathy progression, but did not improve vision at two years. Standard treatment remained effective in preventing further vision loss.

SourceNIH/National Eye Institute·JournalJAMA Ophthalmology·DateMar 30, 2021

Research news tip sheet: Story ideas from Johns Hopkins Medicine

Researchers at Johns Hopkins Medicine used autonomous AI to detect pediatric diabetic retinopathy in a study of 310 patients. The AI tool achieved high sensitivity, specificity, and diagnosability rates, leading to improved screening adherence and early diagnosis.

SourceJohns Hopkins Medicine·JournalDiabetes Care·DateFeb 2, 2021
Apple iPhone 17 Pro

Apple iPhone 17 Pro delivers top performance and advanced cameras for field documentation, data collection, and secure research communications.

AI algorithms detect diabetic eye disease inconsistently

Researchers tested seven AI screening algorithms against expert ophthalmologists and found that most perform poorly in real-world settings, highlighting the need for proper image quality and training data. Only one algorithm matched human screener performance.

SourceUniversity of Washington School of Medicine/UW Medicine·JournalDiabetes Care·DateJan 5, 2021

Targets for avoidable sight loss 'not being met': 30-year study finds

A new 30-year study found that public health services worldwide have failed to meet targets for reducing avoidable sight loss, with cataract and uncorrected refractive error being major contributors. The number of cases of blindness and severe vision impairment is expected to rise dramatically by 2050.

SourceUniversity of Melbourne·JournalThe Lancet Global Health·DateDec 1, 2020

Targets for avoidable sight loss 'not being met'

A new study found that public health services are failing to meet targets to reduce avoidable sight loss, with a significant increase in cases despite a decrease in prevalence. Cataract is the leading cause of blindness, accounting for 15 million people, and treatable by surgery.

SourceAnglia Ruskin University·JournalThe Lancet Global Health·DateDec 1, 2020
Celestron NexStar 8SE Computerized Telescope

Celestron NexStar 8SE Computerized Telescope combines portable Schmidt-Cassegrain optics with GoTo pointing for outreach nights and field campaigns.

Novel deep learning method enables clinic-ready automated screening for diabetes-related eye disease

Researchers developed a novel deep learning method that requires less annotated image data to screen for diabetic retinopathy, achieving the same diagnostic performance as human experts. The method enables clinics to automate screenings and reduce referrals to specialized eye care centers.

SourceHelmholtz Munich (Helmholtz Zentrum München Deutsches Forschungszentrum für Gesundheit und Umwelt (GmbH))·JournalNature Machine Intelligence·DateNov 12, 2020

Diabetes epidemic detected among Xavante indigenous community in Central Brazil

A study found a high prevalence of type 2 diabetes (60.5%) among the Xavante population, with severe cases threatening sight. The researchers used a portable retinograph to detect diabetic retinopathy and found 16 cases, highlighting the need for screening in remote communities.

SourceFundação de Amparo à Pesquisa do Estado de São Paulo·JournalDiabetes Research and Clinical Practice·DateNov 10, 2020
Creality K1 Max 3D Printer

Creality K1 Max 3D Printer rapidly prototypes brackets, adapters, and fixtures for instruments and classroom demonstrations at large build volume.

Promising discovery for patients with diabetic retinopathy

A new study published in Science sheds light on a cellular process in diabetic retinopathy, which could lead to the development of a treatment for this serious complication of diabetes. The research reveals that blood vessels apply molecular brakes to stop abnormal vascular proliferation.

SourceCentre intégré universitaire de santé et de services sociaux de l’Est-de-l’Île-de-Montréal·JournalScience·DateAug 20, 2020

A vitamin A analog may help treat diabetic retinopathy

A new study published in the American Journal of Pathology reports that a single dose of visual chromophore 9-cis-retinal improves visual function in diabetic mice by reducing oxidative stress and cell death. This treatment may represent a potential therapy for early diabetic retinopathy.

SourceElsevier·JournalAmerican Journal Of Pathology·DateJun 11, 2020
Fluke 87V Industrial Digital Multimeter

Fluke 87V Industrial Digital Multimeter is a trusted meter for precise measurements during instrument integration, repairs, and field diagnostics.

Smart contact lenses that diagnose and treat diabetes

Researchers at Pohang University of Science & Technology developed smart contact lenses that can detect diabetes and treat diabetic retinopathy by controlling insulin secretion with electrical signals. The lenses verified accurate glucose level detection in tears of diabetic rabbits.

SourcePohang University of Science & Technology (POSTECH)·JournalScience Advances·DateApr 27, 2020
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.

Using AI to screen for diabetic eye disease feasible in the real world

A new AI screening system has been shown to accurately detect diabetic retinopathy in 95.5% of cases, making real-time screening possible for primary care practices and diabetes centers. The EyeArt system can provide a reading in 60 seconds and does not require the input of an expert ophthalmologist.

SourceAmerican Academy of Ophthalmology·DateOct 15, 2019
Nikon Monarch 5 8x42 Binoculars

Nikon Monarch 5 8x42 Binoculars deliver bright, sharp views for wildlife surveys, eclipse chases, and quick star-field scans at dark sites.

Portable device can be used to diagnose eye disease remotely

Phelcom's Eyer uses a portable optical device connected to a smartphone to capture images of the retina for remote diagnosis. The app sends images over the internet to Eyer Cloud, which stores and manages patient files. With an accuracy rate of around 80%, the system has the potential to examine 50,000 patients next year.

SourceFundação de Amparo à Pesquisa do Estado de São Paulo·DateJun 25, 2019

Earlier detection of diabetic retinopathy with smartphone AI

Researchers at Michigan Medicine developed a smartphone-based tool that uses artificial intelligence to analyze retinal images and detect diabetic retinopathy. The device, called RetinaScope, achieved high sensitivity and specificity rates in a study, outperforming human graders in detecting the condition.

SourceMichigan Medicine - University of Michigan·DateApr 29, 2019

Nature could provide the answer for blindness caused by diabetes, say experts

Researchers have found and tested compounds from a group of plants that could be used to treat proliferative diabetic retinopathy and other degenerative eye diseases. The study suggests that these natural compounds may provide a new approach to treating blindness caused by diabetes, offering hope for future treatments.

SourceUniversity of Surrey·JournalJournal of Natural Products·DateApr 9, 2019
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.

Google research shows how AI can make ophthalmologists more effective

A new study published in Ophthalmology shows that AI can assist physicians in accurately diagnosing diabetic retinopathy, a potentially blinding eye disease. The researchers developed two types of assistance to help physicians read the algorithm's predictions, which improved diagnostic accuracy and confidence.

SourceAmerican Academy of Ophthalmology·JournalOphthalmology·DateMar 18, 2019

Saving sight: Using AI to diagnose diabetic eye disease

Researchers developed an image-processing algorithm that can automatically detect fluid on the retina with high accuracy. Early diagnosis is crucial as diabetic retinopathy can cause irreversible vision loss if left untreated.

SourceRMIT University·JournalComputers in Biology and Medicine·DateJan 8, 2019
GQ GMC-500Plus Geiger Counter

GQ GMC-500Plus Geiger Counter logs beta, gamma, and X-ray levels for environmental monitoring, training labs, and safety demonstrations.

Glowing contact lens could prevent a leading cause of blindness

A team of researchers has developed a glowing contact lens that reduces the retina's oxygen demands at night, potentially preventing diabetic retinopathy. Early testing shows promising results, with rod cell activity reduced by up to 90 percent when worn in the dark.

SourceCalifornia Institute of Technology·DateApr 23, 2018
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.

Unexpected finding may deter disabling diabetic eye disease

A Michigan State University study found unusual lipids in the retina's blood vessels, which may prevent diabetic retinopathy by strengthening the blood-retinal barrier. The discovery could lead to new treatments involving injections or eye drops.

SourceMichigan State University·JournalDiabetes·DateApr 6, 2018

Robocalls improve diabetes eye screening among low-income minorities

A new study found that automated reminder calls improved diabetic eye disease screening rates among low-income minority patients, particularly African Americans. The study showed a significant increase in retinal screenings after receiving robocall reminders, with show rates of 51.6% for African Americans and 61% for Latinos.

SourceThe Endocrine Society·DateMar 19, 2018
Davis Instruments Vantage Pro2 Weather Station

Davis Instruments Vantage Pro2 Weather Station offers research-grade local weather data for networked stations, campuses, and community observatories.

Google's AI program: Building better algorithms for detecting eye disease

A new study published in the American Academy of Ophthalmology journal demonstrates an AI program that detects diabetic eye disease with improved accuracy by incorporating expert feedback from retina specialists. The research provides a groundwork for developing automated systems for screening patients at risk for diabetic retinopathy.

SourceAmerican Academy of Ophthalmology·JournalOphthalmology·DateMar 13, 2018

At-home vision monitoring app may improve patient care

A new smartphone app has shown comparable results to in-office vision testing for patients with age-related macular degeneration and diabetic retinopathy. The Checkup app encourages patients to take an active role in their care, sending reminders and storing test results securely.

SourceAmerican Academy of Ophthalmology·DateNov 13, 2017
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.

Endocrine Society experts examine how diabetes harms body's smallest blood vessels

The Endocrine Society examines how diabetes damages microvascular system, causing complications such as diabetic retinopathy and kidney disease. Maintaining tight control over blood sugar levels may help reduce risk of complications, but also poses risk of hypoglycemia and cardiovascular issues.

SourceThe Endocrine Society·JournalThe Journal of Clinical Endocrinology & Metabolism·DateNov 8, 2017
Sky & Telescope Pocket Sky Atlas, 2nd Edition

Sky & Telescope Pocket Sky Atlas, 2nd Edition is a durable star atlas for planning sessions, identifying targets, and teaching celestial navigation.

Japanese study questions benefit of treat-to-target statin therapy (EMPATHY)

A Japanese study questioned the benefit of treat-to-target intensive statin therapy in patients with diabetic retinopathy, finding no significant reduction in cardiovascular events. However, subanalysis showed that reaching an LDL cholesterol target of less than 70 mg/dL significantly reduced primary endpoint incidence.

SourceEuropean Society of Cardiology·DateAug 29, 2017

Loss of pericytes deteriorates retinal environment

Researchers found that pericyte loss worsens retinal environment and function in mouse models of diabetic retinopathy. Pericytes regulate a molecular pathway associated with vascular stabilization, and their absence accelerates disease progression.

SourceInstitute for Basic Science·JournalNature Communications·DateMay 16, 2017

Implementing large-scale teleretinal diabetic retinopathy screening program

A new article published by JAMA Internal Medicine describes the successful implementation of a large-scale primary care-based teleretinal diabetic retinopathy screening program in Los Angeles County. The program eliminated the need for over 14,000 specialty visits and reduced wait times for screening by 89.2%.

SourceJAMA Network·JournalJAMA Internal Medicine·DateMar 27, 2017
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.

Scientists find therapeutic target for diabetes-related blindness

Researchers at Case Western Reserve University School of Medicine have identified the CD40 receptor on Mueller cells as the primary driver of diabetic retinopathy. The study reveals that this receptor initiates inflammation in the retina, leading to vision impairment.

SourceCase Western Reserve University·JournalDiabetes·DateMar 8, 2017

New RNAi treatment targets eye inflammation

A new RNAi treatment has shown significant improvement in mouse models of acute uveitis and chronic diabetic inflammation without apparent side effects. The therapy targets the receptor-associated prorenin system, involved in uveitis pathogenesis.

SourceHokkaido University·JournalMolecular Therapy — Nucleic Acids·DateFeb 13, 2017

Growth factor shown to protect the retina in early stage diabetes

Researchers found that a slight increase in transforming growth factor beta (TGF-β) protects retinal blood vessels from damage in early diabetic eye disease. The study suggests that inhibiting TGF-β may accelerate the disease, while increasing its signaling could prevent or delay diabetic retinopathy.

SourceMass Eye and Ear·JournalAmerican Journal Of Pathology·DateFeb 2, 2017
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.

Sony Alpha a7 IV (Body Only)

Sony Alpha a7 IV (Body Only) delivers reliable low-light performance and rugged build for astrophotography, lab documentation, and field expeditions.

LA BioMed study seeks to improve diabetic eye health

A new study from LA BioMed found that lower-income minority patients and healthcare providers have markedly divergent perceptions of the barriers to diabetic retinopathy screening. Patients reported financial burden and depression as major obstacles, while providers deemed other factors more significant.

SourceLA BioMed·JournalPreventing Chronic Disease·DateOct 10, 2016

Telemedicine could improve eye exam access for people with diabetes

Researchers found that patients are willing to participate in telemedicine for diabetic retinopathy screening if it is convenient and tailored to their needs. The study suggests that telemedicine could ease the burden on patients who face high costs, lack of access, or difficulty with transportation.

SourceMichigan Medicine - University of Michigan·JournalTelemedicine and e-Health·DateAug 29, 2016

Sedentary behavior associated with diabetic retinopathy

A study published in JAMA Ophthalmology found that sedentary behavior is associated with an increased risk of diabetic retinopathy. Participants with diabetes who spent more time sitting had a 16% higher chance of developing mild or worse DR compared to those who were more active.

SourceJAMA Network·JournalJAMA Ophthalmology·DateAug 4, 2016
Kestrel 3000 Pocket Weather Meter

Kestrel 3000 Pocket Weather Meter measures wind, temperature, and humidity in real time for site assessments, aviation checks, and safety briefings.

Gene therapy in a droplet could treat eye diseases, prevent blindness

Researchers have developed a gene delivery system that can be applied as an eye drop, rapidly moving from the surface to the retina and remaining for over eight hours. This method shows promise for treating several eye diseases, including diabetic retinopathy and age-related macular degeneration.

SourceAmerican Chemical Society·JournalACS Applied Materials & Interfaces·DateJul 27, 2016

Eye study underscores the long-lasting benefits of controlling diabetes

A follow-up analysis of the ACCORD Trial found that people with type 2 diabetes who intensively controlled their blood sugar level had cut their risk of diabetic retinopathy in half. The study, supported by the National Eye Institute, suggests that well-controlled glycemia has a positive and lasting effect on eye health.

SourceNIH/National Eye Institute·JournalDiabetes Care·DateJun 11, 2016
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.