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HKUMed & CityU researchers jointly discover non-invasive stimulation of the eye for depression and dementia

Researchers at HKUMed & CityU discover that transcorneal electrical stimulation can alleviate depression-like symptoms and improve cognitive function in animal models. The technique also induced the expression of genes involved in brain cell growth, offering a potential new treatment for Alzheimer's disease.

SourceThe University of Hong Kong·JournalBrain Stimulation·TypeExperimental study·DateAug 10, 2022

NIH first to develop 3D structure of twinkle protein

Researchers at NIH have developed a 3D structure of the twinkle protein, which helps identify mutations that cause mitochondrial diseases. The discovery could lead to targeted treatments for patients with conditions like progressive external ophthalmoplegia and Perrault syndrome.

SourceNIH/National Institute of Environmental Health Sciences·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·TypeExperimental study·DateAug 5, 2022
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.

High-tech imaging offers new way to detect signs of early glaucoma

Researchers developed a non-invasive ocular imaging method to detect flavoprotein fluorescence in the eye, indicating mitochondrial oxidative stress. This technique may predict glaucoma progression earlier than current methods, with similar sensitivity to visual field changes.

SourceThe Mount Sinai Hospital / Mount Sinai School of Medicine·JournalOphthalmology Glaucoma·TypeImaging analysis·DateAug 2, 2022

Microbiota and microbiotal medicine: Where we are now and what’s next?

The ISM Annual Meeting highlights new topics in oral, vaginal, skin, and gut microbiota, as well as their metabolites and potential implications in diseases like cancer, depression, and stroke. The meeting aims to explore the mechanism behind microbiota efficacy and its potential application in precision medicine.

SourceMitochondria-Microbiota Task Force·DateJul 28, 2022

Genetic clues to age-related macular degeneration revealed

Scientists reprogrammed stem cells to create models of diseased eye cells, analyzing DNA, RNA, and proteins to pinpoint genetic signatures. The study identified 439 molecular signatures associated with AMD, including potential new gene variants that target mitochondrial proteins.

SourceGarvan Institute of Medical Research·JournalNature Communications·TypeExperimental study·DateJul 26, 2022

Black patients found six times more likely to have advanced vision loss after glaucoma diagnosis than white patients

A new study found that Black patients are six times more likely to have advanced vision loss after a glaucoma diagnosis, highlighting the need for early eye screening in this population. The research analyzed nearly 210,000 participants and used artificial intelligence to identify visual field loss patterns.

SourceThe Mount Sinai Hospital / Mount Sinai School of Medicine·JournalTranslational Vision Science & Technology·TypeImaging analysis·DateJul 25, 2022
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.

Trauma of diagnosis stays with eye disease patients

A recent study found that patients vividly remember the way they were told they had their condition, which affects their perception of vision loss and interactions with others. Clinicians should consider empathetic communication when delivering bad news to minimize long-term psychological impact.

SourceAnglia Ruskin University·JournalBMJ Open·TypeSurvey·DateJul 21, 2022

How to inhibit photoreceptor death? A new way to fight pigmentary retinopathy

A new study may help develop therapies to slow vision loss in pigmentary retinopathy by understanding how the visual system adapts to photoreceptor death. The research found that the visual pathway becomes hyperactive during early RP, which could lead to therapeutic protection and restoration of vision.

SourceInstitute of Physical Chemistry of the Polish Academy of Sciences·DateJul 20, 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.

Study finds new links between dogs’ smell and vision

Researchers at Cornell University found connections between the brain's olfactory pathway and visual cortex in dogs, showing that olfaction is integrated with vision in terms of learning about the environment. This study corroborates clinical experiences with blind dogs who function remarkably well despite their condition.

SourceCornell University·JournalJNeurosci·DateJul 18, 2022

Women already live longer. They can live better with an improved diet

Research from the University of Georgia suggests that a diet rich in bright-colored fruits and vegetables, particularly those high in lutein and zeaxanthin, can help prevent visual and cognitive loss in women. This is due to the antioxidant properties of these carotenoids, which have been shown to improve central nervous system degener...

SourceUniversity of Georgia·JournalNutritional Neuroscience·DateJul 14, 2022

PCOS in mothers is linked to increased risk of health problems in their children

Children born to mothers with polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) are at a higher risk of developing infections, allergies, and other childhood illnesses by age 13. The study found that children of mothers with PCOS were 32% more likely to be admitted to hospital for various health problems.

SourceEuropean Society of Human Reproduction and Embryology·JournalHuman Reproduction·TypeObservational study·DateJul 13, 2022
Apple iPhone 17 Pro

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

Blinding eye disease is strongly associated with heart disease and stroke

A study found that patients with a specific form of age-related macular degeneration are at significant risk for cardiovascular disease and stroke. Researchers discovered a strong association between the disorder's subretinal drusenoid deposits and high-risk vascular diseases.

SourceThe Mount Sinai Hospital / Mount Sinai School of Medicine·JournalRetina·TypeImaging analysis·DateJul 12, 2022

LSU Health New Orleans develops new human cell line to study blinding eye disorders

The new human cell line, ABC, was developed from retinal pigment epithelial cells and retains their properties, allowing for the study of events relevant to normal repair processes. The research may lead to discoveries in senescence gene programming, neuroprotection, and cellular replacement therapies for blinding eye diseases

SourceLouisiana State University Health Sciences Center·JournalFrontiers in Neuroscience·TypeExperimental study·DateJul 12, 2022

A novel therapy using unique thermogel prevents retinal scarring

Researchers at A*STAR's Institute of Molecular and Cell Biology developed a bio-functional thermogel that prevents retinal scarring in pre-clinical models. The thermogel modulates cellular behavior to prevent scar membrane formation, offering a novel therapy for proliferative vitreoretinopathy.

SourceAgency for Science, Technology and Research (A*STAR), Singapore·JournalNature·DateJul 4, 2022
Fluke 87V Industrial Digital Multimeter

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

NUS Medicine researchers discover glaucoma and chronic kidney disease have more in common than what meets the eye

Chronic kidney disease and glaucoma have been found to share common risk factors such as diabetes and hypertension, leading to a higher risk of developing both conditions. The study also reveals that patients with glaucoma are more likely to develop chronic kidney disease over time.

SourceNational University of Singapore, Yong Loo Lin School of Medicine·JournalEClinicalMedicine·TypeMeta-analysis·DateJun 21, 2022

Eyes a haven for Ebola and other viruses

Researchers found that retinal cells are more susceptible to Ebola virus infection than iris cells, which could lead to uveitis diagnosis and treatment. This discovery highlights the importance of monitoring retinal cells during acute viral infections to identify patients at high risk.

SourceFlinders University·JournalFrontiers in Virology·TypeExperimental study·DateJun 19, 2022

A new hope for a therapy against retinitis pigmentosa

A team from UNIGE has identified a molecular mechanism that causes degeneration of photoreceptors in retinitis pigmentosa, a genetic disease leading to blindness. The discovery could lead to therapeutic treatments targeting this mechanism.

SourceUniversité de Genève·JournalPLOS Biology·TypeNews article·DateJun 17, 2022
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.

Streamlining stem cells to treat macular degeneration

Researchers have developed a new protocol for differentiating human embryonic stem cells into retinal pigment epithelial (RPE) cells, which can be used to treat age-related macular degeneration. The study shows that the protocol produces a pure population of RPE cells that can continue maturing after transplantation, paving the way for...

SourceEcole Polytechnique Fédérale de Lausanne·JournalStem Cell Reports·DateJun 14, 2022

NIH researchers discover new genetic eye disease

Researchers at the National Eye Institute have discovered a novel genetic eye disease, a type of macular dystrophy that affects central vision. The disease is linked to mutations in the TIMP3 gene, which regulates retinal blood flow and is secreted from the retinal pigment epithelium.

SourceNIH/National Eye Institute·JournalJAMA·DateJun 9, 2022

Stem-cell models reveal glaucoma secrets

Researchers used stem-cell models to uncover hidden genetic markers of glaucoma, a leading cause of permanent blindness. The study identified 312 genetic variants associated with retinal cells and 97 genetic clusters linked to damage caused by glaucoma.

SourceGarvan Institute of Medical Research·JournalCell Genomics·TypeExperimental study·DateJun 8, 2022
AmScope B120C-5M Compound Microscope

AmScope B120C-5M Compound Microscope supports teaching labs and QA checks with LED illumination, mechanical stage, and included 5MP camera.

Aging-US | A novel discovery in age-related macular degeneration (AMD)

Researchers investigated the effects of treatment with exogenous Humanin G on inflammation markers in AMD and normal retinal cells. The study found reduced levels of inflammatory proteins in AMD plasma and treated cybrids, highlighting the positive effects of Humanin G.

SourceImpact Journals LLC·JournalAging-US·TypeExperimental study·DateMay 31, 2022

World-first discovery of cornea T cells protecting eyes from viral infections

A groundbreaking study has discovered that the cornea produces a delicate immune response to fight viral infections without damaging vision. Long-living memory T cells have been found patrolling and fighting viral infections in the cornea, upending previous thought on T cell presence in healthy corneas.

SourceThe Peter Doherty Institute for Infection and Immunity·JournalCell Reports·TypeExperimental study·DateMay 24, 2022
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.

Retinal cell map could advance precise therapies for blinding diseases

A new study maps the distinct differences among cells in the retina's retinal pigment epithelium (RPE), which nourishes and supports photoreceptors. The research identifies five subpopulations with varying levels of disease sensitivity, opening doors to more precise cell and gene therapies for specific degenerative eye diseases.

SourceNIH/National Eye Institute·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateMay 6, 2022

Nothing to cry about: The development of tear duct organoids

Scientists at Osaka University created 3D human stem cell-derived lacrimal gland organoids that mimic the human tear duct. The organoids exhibited organization and branching patterns characteristic of the human lacrimal gland, demonstrating potential as a platform for regenerative therapies for dry eye syndrome.

SourceOsaka University·JournalNature·TypeExperimental study·DateMay 2, 2022

Study shows sleep deprivation impairs stem cells in the cornea

A recent study published in Stem Cell Reports found that sleep deprivation negatively affects corneal stem cells, leading to increased rates of cell multiplication and reduced tear film antioxidants. This can result in serious effects on corneal health, such as thinning and ruffling of the cornea.

SourceInternational Society for Stem Cell Research·JournalStem Cell Reports·DateApr 28, 2022
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.

Non-invasive examination of conjunctival goblet cells in live rabbits

Researchers have developed a non-invasive imaging method to examine conjunctival goblet cells (CGCs) in live rabbit eyes, which are similar to human eyes. The study found that CGC density decreased with dry eye disease (DED) and recovered over time.

SourcePohang University of Science & Technology (POSTECH)·JournalThe Ocular Surface·DateApr 27, 2022

Ultrasound gave us our first baby pictures can it also help the blind see?

A new study by USC researchers uses focused ultrasound technology to stimulate the retina of blind rats, demonstrating the potential for a non-surgical solution to restore sight. The technology generates sound waves that activate neurons and send signals to the brain, bypassing traditional light-based stimulation.

SourceUniversity of Southern California·TypeObservational study·DateApr 11, 2022

High performance microscopy for non-invasive conjunctival goblet cell examination

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
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.

Disparities in diabetic eye care

A new University of Houston study finds racial and ethnic disparities in diabetic eye care, with Whites more likely to receive regular exams than minorities. The study also reveals that Hispanics have the highest prevalence of diabetic eye complications.

SourceUniversity of Houston·JournalDiabetes Epidemiology and Management·DateMar 30, 2022

There is more to Sars-CoV-2 than meets the eye

Researchers detect Sars-CoV-2 mRNA in human retina organoids, indicating infection of retinal cells. The virus also replicates in these cell types, with implications for 'Long Covid' pathologies.

SourceMax-Planck-Gesellschaft·JournalStem Cell Reports·TypeExperimental study·DateMar 26, 2022

OCT studies without noise. A new method for better detection of eye diseases

Researchers developed a new OCT method called Spatio-Temporal Optical Coherence Tomography (STOC-T) to improve the accuracy of eye disease diagnoses. This method uses multimode optical fibers to reduce noise, enabling clearer images of the choroid and other vital parts of the eye.

SourceInstitute of Physical Chemistry of the Polish Academy of Sciences·DateMar 22, 2022

Correcting night blindness in dogs

Researchers have developed a gene therapy that restores night vision in dogs with congenital stationary night blindness (CSNB), a condition affecting the ON bipolar cells. The treatment enables dogs to navigate mazes in dim light and has a lasting therapeutic effect, paving the way for potential human treatments.

SourceUniversity of Pennsylvania·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·TypeExperimental study·DateMar 22, 2022
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.

Screening for diabetic retinopathy proven to be cost-effective in China

A study found that telemedicine and community screening for diabetic retinopathy are highly cost-effective in rural and urban China. The results suggest that adopting telemedicine screening programs at the national primary care level is economically reasonable.

SourceHealth Data Science·JournalHealth Data Science·TypeComputational simulation/modeling·DateMar 21, 2022

Cell fusion ‘awakens’ regenerative potential of human retina

Researchers discovered that fusing Müller glia with adult stem cells can differentiate into ganglion cells, a type of neuron essential for vision. This finding brings hope for recovering the retina's regenerative capacity in humans.

SourceCenter for Genomic Regulation·JournalEBioMedicine·TypeExperimental study·DateMar 15, 2022

AAVMC recognizes UTCVM’s Rouse with Excellence in Research Award

AAVMC awards Dr. Barry T. Rouse with the Excellence in Research Award for his outstanding contributions to viral immunology and immunopathology research. With over $20 million in NIH funding, he has published more than 425 papers and mentored almost 80 post-doctoral fellows.

SourceUniversity of Tennessee Institute of Agriculture·DateMar 11, 2022

Peer review affirms MiSight® 1 day sustains slowing of eye growth over six years for myopia control

A new peer-reviewed study confirms MiSight 1 day contact lenses slow eye growth and halt myopia progression in 90% of children, with no loss of effectiveness over time. The longest-running soft contact lens study among children demonstrates sustained efficacy for nearly all children, regardless of age or initial refractive error.

SourceMcDougall Communications·JournalOptometry and Vision Science·TypeRandomized controlled/clinical trial·DateMar 10, 2022
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.

Association between depression, severity of dry eye disease

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

Smart LED contact lenses for treating diabetic retinopathy

Researchers developed smart contact lenses that emit far-red light to treat diabetic retinopathy. The study showed the lenses prevented retinopathy in diabetic animal models, demonstrating their safety and effectiveness.

SourcePohang University of Science & Technology (POSTECH)·JournalAdvanced Science·DateMar 7, 2022

Mutant mice shed no tears

A study led by Kyoto University researchers found that modulating hormone levels can improve meibomian gland disorder, a common cause of dry eyes. Topical administration of nicotinamide mononucleotide (NMN) boosted NAD levels and rebooted 3-HSD activity in mutant mice, alleviating dryness.

SourceKyoto University·JournalNature Aging·TypeExperimental study·DateMar 7, 2022

Improving eye health essential to achieving Sustainable Development Goals

A new study published in The Lancet Planetary Health found that improved eye health services are associated with moving closer to achieving seven SDGs. Multiple direct connections were discovered between eye health services and increased productivity, household expenditure, income, education, and equality.

SourceLondon School of Hygiene & Tropical Medicine·JournalThe Lancet Planetary Health·DateFeb 24, 2022
Celestron NexStar 8SE Computerized Telescope

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

Scientists pinpoint genetic target with promise for treating many forms of blindness

Researchers from Trinity College Dublin have pinpointed a key driver gene, SARM1, that contributes to impaired vision and blindness. Deleting this gene shows promise in preserving vision, suggesting targeted therapies may offer long-lasting preservation of sight for various ocular conditions.

SourceTrinity College Dublin·JournalInternational Journal of Molecular Sciences·TypeExperimental study·DateFeb 17, 2022

Eye provides clues to insidious vascular disease

Researchers developed a method to diagnose atherosclerosis using self-learning software and eye photos. The algorithm accurately identified vascular changes in patients with peripheral arterial disease, even in early stages without symptoms.

SourceUniversity of Bonn·JournalScientific Reports·TypeImaging analysis·DateFeb 11, 2022

Maintaining transparency: study to focus on causes of cataracts

A new study will focus on the biological mechanisms causing cataracts, potentially leading to new treatments. The research team, led by Nicholas Delamere, PhD, will investigate the role of protein ion channels TRPV1 and TRPV4 in age-related lens cell changes.

SourceUniversity of Arizona Health Sciences·DateFeb 3, 2022
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.