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Post-Ebola cataract surgery can safely restore vision

Researchers report successful cataract surgeries in 34 Ebola survivors, improving visual acuities from Hand Motions to 20/30 levels. The study provides evidence for safe elective eye surgery in Ebola survivors at risk of uveitis and vision impairment.

SourceEmory Health Sciences·JournalEBioMedicine·DateApr 4, 2018
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.

Retinal implant halts vision loss from macular degeneration

A bioengineered retinal implant, composed of human embryonic stem cells, has been shown to halt vision loss in advanced non-neovascular age-related macular degeneration. The implant was well-tolerated and successfully integrated with retinal tissue, demonstrating potential for a new therapy for this progressive disease.

SourceAmerican Association for the Advancement of Science (AAAS)·JournalScience Translational Medicine·DateApr 4, 2018

Toward precision medicine: First comprehensive look at human retinal cell diversity

Researchers have identified over 30 different subtypes of retinal ganglion cells, the neurons responsible for processing visual information. This comprehensive understanding will enable the development of more tailored drug development and treatment strategies for neurodegenerative vision disorders.

SourceIndiana University-Purdue University Indianapolis School of Science·JournalStem Cell Reports·DateMar 22, 2018

Stem cells treat macular degeneration

Researchers at UCSB developed a specially engineered retinal patch using stem cells to treat people with sudden severe sight loss from wet AMD. The study showed improvements in vision, enabling patients to read and perform daily tasks.

SourceUniversity of California - Santa Barbara·JournalNature Biotechnology·DateMar 19, 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
Apple iPhone 17 Pro

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

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

NIH launches international study of AMD progression

The NIH-led AMD Ryan Initiative Study (ARIS) will follow 500 people over five years to learn more about the natural history of early age-related macular degeneration (AMD). Researchers aim to identify biomarkers of disease progression and develop therapies to halt its progression.

SourceNIH/National Eye Institute·DateFeb 23, 2018
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.

New glaucoma drugs yield large, lasting reductions in intraocular pressure

Two novel ocular hypotensive agents, netarsudil and latanoprostene bunod, have been approved for use in humans, reducing intraocular pressure with lasting results. These breakthrough drugs also show promise for treating dry eye disease and delivering ophthalmic drugs via microneedles.

SourceMary Ann Liebert, Inc./Genetic Engineering News·JournalJournal of Ocular Pharmacology and Therapeutics·DateFeb 21, 2018

Diabetes doubles chance of developing cataract

A new study by Anglia Ruskin University found that people with diabetes are twice as likely to develop cataract as the general population. The relative risk is highest among individuals aged between 45 and 54, who are up to 5.7 times more likely to be diagnosed with cataract than their healthy counterparts.

SourceAnglia Ruskin University·JournalEye·DateFeb 5, 2018

Eye and heart complications are tightly linked in type 1 diabetes

Scientists at Joslin Diabetes Center found a connection between eye damage and cardiovascular disease in people with type 1 diabetes, suggesting shared biological mechanisms. The study also showed that kidney disease was not necessarily linked to cardiovascular disease, challenging previous assumptions.

SourceJoslin Diabetes Center·JournalDiabetes Care·DateJan 31, 2018
CalDigit TS4 Thunderbolt 4 Dock

CalDigit TS4 Thunderbolt 4 Dock simplifies serious desks with 18 ports for high-speed storage, monitors, and instruments across Mac and PC setups.

Study advances gene therapy for glaucoma

Researchers at University of Wisconsin-Madison have developed an improved gene delivery tactic for treating glaucoma, a leading blinding disease. The new method doubles the transfer of genes entering target cells and spreads them more uniformly across the trabecular meshwork tissue.

SourceUniversity of Wisconsin-Madison·JournalInvestigative Ophthalmology & Visual Science·DateJan 16, 2018
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.

Plasmonic biosensors enable development of new easy-to-use health tests

Researchers at Aalto University developed a new plasmonic biosensor that detects diseased exosomes with high sensitivity using the naked eye. This breakthrough technology enables rapid recognition of inflammatory bowel diseases, cancer, and other conditions, allowing for timely treatment initiation.

SourceAalto University·JournalAdvanced Materials·DateDec 13, 2017

A drug to treat retinal diseases with drops instead of injections

A new compound developed by Sylentis can penetrate the retina to treat age-related macular degeneration and diabetic retinopathy with ophthalmic drops. The drug blocks the formation of new blood vessels and has shown efficacy in animal models, offering a promising alternative to painful injections.

SourceSpanish Foundation for Science and Technology·DateDec 12, 2017

Advances in MALDI mass spectrometry within drug discovery

This special issue highlights innovations in MALDI mass spectrometry for characterizing proteomes, detecting analytes, and screening non-covalent binding of small molecules to target proteins. MALDI imaging is used to study diseases and therapeutics, including the distribution of glycosphingolipids in a Gaucher Disease model mouse brain.

SourceSLAS (Society for Laboratory Automation and Screening)·JournalSLAS DISCOVERY·DateNov 28, 2017

Are lipid-based products more effective for treating dry eye disease?

A new review article examines the effectiveness of lipid-based products, including liposome lid sprays and emulsion eye drops, in treating dry eye disease. The studies found that these products provide immediate relief of symptoms and improve the structure and stability of the tear film lipid layer.

SourceMary Ann Liebert, Inc./Genetic Engineering News·JournalJournal of Ocular Pharmacology and Therapeutics·DateNov 21, 2017
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.

Sight-saving imaging technology secures funding

The University of Liverpool's Ultra-Sensitive Optical Coherence Tomography (Ultra-OCT) system is developing a state-of-the-art imaging technology to revolutionise the detection, diagnosis, and management of corneal eye conditions. The system boasts a resolution of 2 micrometres and can scan 1,000 times faster than existing OCT machines.

SourceUniversity of Liverpool·DateNov 16, 2017

Research reveals biological mechanism of a leading cause of childhood blindness

Optic nerve hypoplasia is a leading cause of childhood blindness in developed nations, and researchers have discovered the biological mechanism behind it. The condition affects brain growth during development, particularly with the CASK gene, which helps provide architectural support for neuronal communication.

SourceVirginia Tech·JournalInvestigative Ophthalmology & Visual Science·DateNov 16, 2017

Stem cell therapy shows promise for common cause of blindness

Researchers from Hadassah-Hebrew University Medical Center and Bascom Palmer Eye Institute conducted two clinical trials using human embryonic stem cells to treat dry macular degeneration, a leading cause of new blindness. The studies showed that stem cell injection into the eye replaced damaged cells and improved vision in some patients.

SourceAmerican Academy of Ophthalmology·DateNov 14, 2017

Dry eye sufferers will soon have a drug-free solution

A new neurostimulator device inserted into the nose has shown significant relief for people suffering from dry eyes, increasing tear production and producing a complete tear. Researchers tested 97 patients with moderate to severe dry eye and reported no side effects.

SourceAmerican Academy of Ophthalmology·DateNov 13, 2017

UHN vision scientists discover potential neuroprotective treatment for glaucoma

Researchers at UHN's Krembil Research Institute identified LXB4, a unique lipid that protects neurons against glaucoma in preclinical models. This discovery provides hope for devising a new strategy to protect vision in glaucoma patients and may have implications for other neurodegenerative diseases.

SourceUniversity Health Network·JournalJournal of Clinical Investigation·DateNov 6, 2017
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.

Pumpkin genomes sequenced, revealing uncommon evolutionary history

Scientists have sequenced the genomes of two pumpkin species, Cucurbita maxima and Cucurbita moschata, to understand their contrasting desirable traits. The study reveals an interesting evolutionary history, with pumpkins being a paleotetraploid resulting from the combination of two ancient genomes.

SourceBoyce Thompson Institute·JournalMolecular Plant·DateOct 29, 2017
Fluke 87V Industrial Digital Multimeter

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

Illinois sportfish recovery a result of 1972 Clean Water Act, scientists report

The Illinois River's dramatic recovery is attributed to the Clean Water Act, which reduced sewage effluent and improved water quality. As a result, populations of largemouth bass, bluegill, and other sportfish have increased dramatically, with catches now exceeding 100-300 fish per hour.

SourceUniversity of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, News Bureau·JournalBioScience·DateOct 18, 2017

Brain waves reflect different types of learning

Scientists have identified distinct neural signatures for explicit and implicit learning, which could guide the development of training techniques to mitigate learning and memory deficits. The findings may also help diagnose Alzheimer's disease at an earlier stage.

SourceMassachusetts Institute of Technology·JournalNeuron·DateOct 12, 2017

Researchers identify potential biomarkers of age-related macular degeneration

A new study has identified potential lipid biomarkers in human blood plasma associated with age-related macular degeneration, which may lead to earlier diagnoses and better treatment options. The study's findings also suggest that metabolomics profiling may provide novel insights into the relationship between lipids and AMD.

SourceMass Eye and Ear·JournalOphthalmology·DateSep 12, 2017

New facial recognition findings could help develop new treatments for conduct disorder

Researchers found that teenage girls and boys with severe antisocial behavior have difficulty recognizing facial expressions, particularly those showing negative emotions. The study suggests that boys with Conduct Disorder may need more comprehensive interventions than girls due to their unique challenges in emotion recognition.

SourceUniversity of Bath·JournalJournal of Child Psychology and Psychiatry·DateSep 7, 2017
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.

New model for hard-to-study form of blindness paves way for future research

A new human stem cell model has been developed to study macular degeneration, a leading cause of vision loss in older adults. The model, created by researchers at the University of Rochester Medical Center, mimics key characteristics of the disease and could lead to new avenues of research and potential drug targets.

SourceUniversity of Rochester Medical Center·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateSep 6, 2017

Researchers identify key compounds to resolve abnormal vascular growth in AMD

A new study published in PNAS identifies two key compounds that can reduce the severity of age-related macular degeneration (AMD) by regulating inflammatory immune cells. The findings have significant therapeutic implications for AMD and other conditions involving angiogenesis and inflammation.

SourceMass Eye and Ear·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateAug 21, 2017
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.

Genome editing with CRISPR-Cas9 prevents angiogenesis of the retina

Researchers from Mass Eye and Ear successfully prevented mice from developing retinal angiogenesis using CRISPR-Cas9 gene-editing techniques. The technique targets VEGFR2, a critical protein responsible for angiogenesis, and showed promising results in preclinical models.

SourceMass Eye and Ear·JournalNature Communications·DateJul 24, 2017

Eye test could help diagnose autism

A new study suggests that an eye test could be a useful tool in diagnosing Autism spectrum disorders (ASD) by assessing the ability of individuals to adapt saccade amplitudes. This test may indicate deficits in the brain's emotional and social development areas, which are often impaired in individuals with ASD.

SourceUniversity of Rochester Medical Center·JournalEuropean Journal of Neuroscience·DateJul 24, 2017

Using omega 3 fatty acids to treat Alzheimer's & other diseases?

Researchers at LSU Health New Orleans found that docosahexaenoic acid (DHA) and its bioactive derivative NPD1 can reduce stroke damage and promote cell survival in the brain. DHA is essential for maintaining cellular homeostasis, which is disrupted in diseases such as Alzheimer's and Parkinson's.

SourceLouisiana State University Health Sciences Center·JournalJournal of Biological Chemistry·DateJul 18, 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.

Newly discovered elovanoids called a 'transformative new concept of biology'

Researchers at LSU Health Sciences Center have discovered a new class of biochemical triggers called elovanoids, which are derived from omega-3 fatty acids. These molecules play a significant role in protecting retinal pigment epithelial and photoreceptor cells from damage.

SourceLouisiana State University Health Sciences Center·JournalScientific Reports·DateJul 13, 2017

Sinus disease symptoms improve 10 years after patients quit smoking

Patients with chronic rhinosinusitis (CRS) who quit smoking experience improvement in symptoms and medication usage within 10 years. The study found that every year without smoking is associated with a statistically significant reduction in symptoms and medication usage.

SourceMass Eye and Ear·JournalJAMA Otolaryngology–Head & Neck Surgery·DateJul 12, 2017
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.

Tourette Syndrome risk increases in people with genetic copy variations

A large international team of researchers has identified genetic abnormalities that are the first definitive risk genes for Tourette Syndrome. The study, which analyzed a sample of 2,400 patients and 4,000 controls, found that variations in copy number at specific genes were associated with an increased risk of developing the disorder.

SourcePurdue University·JournalNeuron·DateJun 22, 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.

Study shows Neuro Kinetics' I-Portal® devices objectively track concussion signs

A study using Neuro Kinetics' I-Portal devices found that a battery of OVRT tests can accurately measure concussion symptoms both initially and during recovery. The study suggests that these tests may be used to monitor subacute concussion recovery and help determine the safest time for patients to return to activities.

SourceNeuro Kinetics, Inc.·JournalThe Laryngoscope·DateJun 21, 2017

Gene study sheds light on causes of childhood sight loss

A genetic mutation contributing to childhood blindness has been identified in patients with ocular coloboma, a condition resulting in part of the eye being missing at birth. The study revealed mutations in 10 genes linked to actin activity, affecting eye development.

SourceUniversity of Edinburgh·JournalHuman Mutation·DateMay 18, 2017
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.

New study helps solve a great mystery in the organization of our DNA

Researchers at Gladstone Institutes have discovered the key protein CTCF plays a crucial role in controlling DNA organization, reevaluating the cause of certain cancers and developmental defects. The study sheds new light on gene regulation and provides insights into fundamental genome organization processes.

SourceGladstone Institutes·JournalCell·DateMay 18, 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
Celestron NexStar 8SE Computerized Telescope

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

Disfiguring eye symptoms diminish in Graves' eye disease drug trial

A clinical trial found that the drug teprotumumab significantly reduces eye bulging, pain, and swelling in patients with moderate-to-severe active thyroid eye disease. The treatment, which blocks an autoimmune attack on muscles around the eyes, showed rapid therapeutic benefits within six weeks of infusions.

SourceMichigan Medicine - University of Michigan·JournalNew England Journal of Medicine·DateMay 3, 2017