A new study based on data from SWAN found a significant longitudinal association between mild and moderate to severe vision impairment and subsequent depressive symptoms in midlife women. Early identification and correction of vision problems are crucial for preserving mental and physical health.
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.
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.
A genomic study revealed causative gene variants for inherited retinal dystrophies (IRDs) in diverse populations, with significant findings for Mexican, Pakistani, and European American participants. The study identified new gene variants and mutations contributing to IRDs, shedding light on disease variation and presentation.
Researchers developed a new protein treatment that prevents glaucoma from forming in mice and reduces pressure in the eyes. The study provides new targets for therapies and aims to develop an injectable treatment for patients.
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.
University of Illinois Chicago researchers discovered a function of mammalian target of rapamycin complex 2 in an antiviral defense mechanism, limiting HSV-1 virus infection through rapid activation of antiviral immunity. The protein complex protects the host by preventing encephalitis and possible death due to HSV-1 infection.
A Tanzanian study found that laser treatment (SLT) successfully reduced eye pressure to normal levels in 61% of patients after one year, compared to 31% with daily eye drops. SLT may be an affordable alternative for glaucoma care in Africa.
Researchers have created a human disease model of FCMD using stem cells from a patient, which successfully mimicked the disorder's brain defects. The study found that a small compound called Mannan-007 can restore αDG glycosylation and reduce FCMD-related defects.
Researchers have discovered toxic DNA buildup in the eyes of patients with geographic atrophy, a devastating form of age-related macular degeneration. Common HIV drugs or safer alternatives, such as Kamuvudines, may block inflammation and protect against retinal cell death, offering new hope for treatment.
Apple iPhone 17 Pro
Apple iPhone 17 Pro delivers top performance and advanced cameras for field documentation, data collection, and secure research communications.
A new study provides evidence supporting the involvement of aquaporins in corneal cell proliferation and nerve regeneration, suggesting AQP5 induction as a potential therapy to accelerate corneal defect resurfacing. The study found that AQP5 deficiency can slow down corneal epithelial repair, but its specific mechanism remained unclear.
A clinical trial conducted by TTUHSC researchers found that corneal epithelial stem cell-derived eye drops significantly improved symptoms of severe dry eye disease, with patients experiencing a 23% improvement in SPEED questionnaire scores and a 17.1% improvement in OSDI scores. No adverse reactions were reported during the 12-week tr...
A new handheld screening device has been shown to accurately detect amblyopia (lazy eye) in children, with a sensitivity rate of 100% and specificity rate of 85%. Early detection is key to treating the condition, which can affect school performance and lifelong visual acuity.
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.
Celestron NexStar 8SE Computerized Telescope
Celestron NexStar 8SE Computerized Telescope combines portable Schmidt-Cassegrain optics with GoTo pointing for outreach nights and field campaigns.
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.
Researchers at Nanyang Technological University and Tan Tock Seng Hospital have developed an AI-powered system to diagnose glaucoma from stereo fundus images, achieving an accuracy of 97% in diagnosing the condition. The automated method could potentially be used in less developed areas where patients lack access to ophthalmologists.
A new study demonstrates that temporarily anesthetizing the retina of the non-amblyopic eye can lastingly improve vision in the amblyopic eye even after the critical period. The approach has shown promising results in two different mammal species, offering a potential pathway for a new and more effective treatment for amblyopia.
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.
Scientists at Kyoto University developed a chemical compound that can tag and remove mutant DNA sequences from mitochondria, potentially treating mitochondrial diseases. The approach overcomes existing problems with genetic material injection and antioxidant drugs.
Researchers developed a non-invasive optical technique using spectroscopy to identify structural changes in the brain and diagnose Alzheimer's disease. The new technology has potential as a simple, completely non-invasive method of early detection and could also assess treatment effectiveness.
Researchers discovered that CaMKII is a key regulator of the survival of retinal ganglion cells, which process visual information. Gene therapy reactivating CaMKII provided robust protection against vision loss in multiple disease and injury models.
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.
Scientists found that HtrA1 protein levels decrease with age in individuals with chromosome 10 risk variants associated with age-related macular degeneration. The study identified HtrA1 as a protective factor, suggesting it maintains the integrity of the RPE-Bruch's membrane interface.
Researchers have discovered that the Usher syndrome type 1G protein SANS plays a crucial role in regulating splicing process, leading to errors in related genes and disease progression. The study aims to elucidate molecular basis of blindness in Usher syndrome patients.
A study published in Nature Communications found that the process removing old light sensors is disrupted in progressive blindness, leading to age-related macular degeneration. The researchers identified mTORC1 as a key component involved in photoreceptor recycling and suggest potential treatments using drugs against mTORC1.
A study published in Cell identified specific nerve cells and proteins that trigger the sneeze reflex, which may lead to new treatments for infectious respiratory diseases. The researchers found that stimulating these cells with a molecule called neuromedin B could induce sneezing, even without exposure to allergens or viruses.
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.
Researchers developed a non-contact laser imaging system that can detect telltale signs of major blinding diseases in retinal blood and tissue, allowing for earlier diagnosis and management. The technology, known as photoacoustic remote sensing, improves patient comfort and test accuracy.
A study by Inselspital and RetinAI uses AI to predict anti-VEGF treatment demand for patients with AMD, RVO, and DME. The model achieved high accuracy in predicting treatment need, even at the initial visit or before the first injection.
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.
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.
A new AI-powered algorithm, WeakGCSeg, accurately detects and tracks ganglion cells in the retina, surpassing human expertise. This technology enables early diagnosis of neurodegenerative diseases like glaucoma, improving treatment options.
A new study reveals that retinal scans can identify early signs of Alzheimer's disease by detecting changes in blood vessels associated with the APOE4 gene. The research provides a potential path forward for early detection and treatment of neurodegenerative diseases.
A team of researchers identified a genetic mutation associated with exfoliation syndrome, the most common cause of glaucoma. The study found that people with exfoliation syndrome are twice as likely to carry damaging mutations in the CYP39A1 protein, which plays a crucial role in cholesterol processing.
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.
Researchers at UW-Madison have developed a micro-molded scaffolding photoreceptor patch to deliver new photoreceptors to damaged or diseased retinas. The 'ice cube tray' scaffold can hold three times as many cells while reducing biomaterial usage.
A gene therapy protects eye cells in mice with a rare disorder, suggesting a combination approach may preserve vision in people with retinitis pigmentosa. Researchers found that using Txnip gene therapies, along with treatments for oxidative stress and inflammation, provided additional protection for the cells.
Researchers have discovered a new potential mechanism for age-related macular degeneration, suggesting that the structural organization of light-sensing cells may be affected by the disease. This finding offers hope for identifying new molecular targets to treat the condition and potentially reversing its effects.
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.
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 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.
New contact lens technologies can diagnose diseases like diabetes and cancer, treat eye conditions, and enhance vision. Integrated circuits will enable intraocular pressure monitoring and retinal imaging for early disease detection.
A new study identifies gene variants that cause a metabolic deficiency in the eye, linking it to a rare eye disease called macular telangiectasia type 2. The research found that most patients have a serine deficiency that leads to toxic lipid accumulation, causing damage to retinal cells.
The University of Delaware lab will investigate the role of Elav11 and its partners in eye development under a four-year NIH grant. Researchers aim to understand mechanisms behind cataracts and lens abnormalities.
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.
Scientists have discovered over a dozen gene variants causing the rare eye disease MacTel, which leads to progressive retinal degeneration. The study identifies PHGDH as a key enzyme essential for serine production, whose partial loss contributes to MacTel's development.
A small study presented at the Endocrine Society's annual meeting found that 17 out of 26 patients taking teprotumumab reported otologic symptoms, including subjective hearing loss and tinnitus. The authors recommend baseline audiogram testing to better understand this potential side effect.
The National Eye Institute's Data Commons now offers access to AREDS2 data, including thousands of participants with age-related macular degeneration. Researchers can analyze genomic and phenotypic data, as well as retinal images, to better understand the disease and develop new therapies.
A genetic defect has been identified as a key factor in the development of MacTel, an eye disease that can lead to vision loss and blindness. The discovery provides new insights into the condition and may enable clinicians to better diagnose and treat it.
Researchers are developing an ocular drug delivery system based on RNA nanotechnology to deliver therapeutics into the eye without requiring eye injections. This method aims to create a reservoir for medications to treat diseases over time, reducing adverse effects and increasing treatment efficiency.
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.
Research suggests that people with severe retinopathy are more likely to have a diseased-looking brain on MRI. The study found an association between retinopathy and increased risk of stroke, dementia, and mortality in adults.
A new study found that dry eye disease significantly impacts visual function, daily activities, and work productivity. It also reveals a link between dry eye disease and increased anxiety, depression, arthritis, hearing loss, and irritable bowel disease.
Keratoconus Dystrophy affects 30% of people with Down syndrome, causing vision problems and potentially requiring corneal transplants. The research aims to identify individuals at risk and explore prevention options through the use of biospecimens from the DSA Biobank.
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 mobile app, Glaucoma in Perspective, provides glaucoma education in a simple, visual format to help patients and their families understand the potential impact of the condition on their lives. The app covers topics such as visual field tests, eye pressure management, and treatment options.
A study published in EClinical Medicine found a correlation between retinal ischemic perivascular lesions and increased risk of cardiovascular disease. Researchers identified this mark in patients who underwent optical coherence tomography scans, suggesting it could serve as a biomarker for heart disease.
Researchers at the University of Birmingham have developed a method to measure intraocular pressure using soundwaves, which could help detect glaucoma earlier. This non-invasive technique uses a smartphone to scan people's eyes, prompting early diagnosis and treatment to prevent blindness.
Researchers found that inhibiting RUNX1, a gene linked to retinal neovascularization, presents a promising therapeutic advance for treating age-related macular degeneration. The study showed that a RUNX1 inhibitor alone or in combination with standard treatment reduced CNV lesion size and vascular leakage.
Researchers found significant eye abnormalities in severe COVID-19 patients using MRI scans, suggesting the need for routine eye screening. The study also recommends dedicated exploration of eyes with high-resolution MRI, fundoscopy, and optical coherence tomography to detect nodules and monitor their impact.
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.
Researchers at UIC aim to develop an antibody-based eye drop to treat dry eye and ocular surface disease caused by inflammatory and immune system disorders. The new treatment, which uses pooled human immune globulins, is expected to be particularly helpful for patients with immune-related dry eyes.
A new study reveals that the CLN3 gene mutation associated with Batten disease leads to degeneration of light-sensing photoreceptor cells in the retina. This understanding is crucial for developing new therapeutic strategies, including gene therapies and cell transplantation.
A new wearable device collects biofluids such as tears and saliva to analyze conditions like oral ulcers, oral cancer, and eye infections on a rapid, continuous basis. The sensors also administer medicine with microneedles through the skin, offering improved treatment options for patients.
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.
A new study by NIH scientists reveals that prion disease affects the eye first, specifically targeting cone photoreceptor cells. The researchers used confocal microscopy to identify prion protein deposits in cones and rods, finding early damage in cilia and ribbon synapses.
Researchers developed a gene therapy strategy to treat Leber congenital amaurosis by adding copies of the normal CRX gene under its native control mechanism. This approach restored some CRX protein function and drove expression of opsins in patient-derived retinal organoids.
Researchers successfully transplanted human cadaver-derived retinal pigment epithelium (RPE) into non-human primate models, showing promise for treating macular degeneration and blindness. The study demonstrates the safety and feasibility of this approach, paving the way for potential human clinical trials.
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 from TalTech have made a groundbreaking discovery linking CTG repeat expansion to Fuchs' corneal dystrophy, a common eye disease affecting millions. The study reveals changes in TCF4 expression levels in patients with the disease, paving the way for potential treatment strategies.
Researchers at Stowers Institute for Medical Research have discovered a signaling pathway that regulates the secretion of proteins important for maintaining eye structure, including the ciliary body. This finding holds promise for early detection and treatment of degenerative eye conditions such as glaucoma.
Scientists at the University of Birmingham have identified a potential new treatment for open angle glaucoma, a neurodegenerative disease affecting over 70 million people worldwide. ILB has been shown to normalise matrix deposition and lower intraocular pressure in a pre-clinical model, paving the way for anti-fibrotic therapies.
Researchers at UCL developed a pioneering new eye test called DARC that can predict wet age-related macular degeneration (AMD) three years before symptoms appear. The test uses a fluorescent dye to detect stressed retinal cells, which then predicts future AMD activity.
Researchers at Karolinska Institutet have discovered a connection between metabolic disturbance in retinal ganglion cells and high intraocular pressure. Rapamycin and pyruvate treatments showed protective effects in animal and cell models.
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.