Add BrightSurf on Google Email

Can your brain control how it loses control?

Researchers found that the brain coordinates vision loss in glaucoma patients, with a 'Jigsaw Effect' where two puzzle pieces fit together. This suggests that the brain optimizes vision in the face of glaucoma's destruction of sight, opening up new areas of research for neuroprotective therapies.

SourceAssociation for Research in Vision and Ophthalmology·JournalTranslational Vision Science & Technology·DateAug 14, 2015
Apple iPhone 17 Pro

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

Human color vision gives people the ability to see nanoscale differences

Researchers discovered human eyes can distinguish between thin films of different thickness by observing color differences, achieving precision beyond normal human vision. This ability rivals techniques like ellipsometry, which measure minute thicknesses, and could be used as a quick check by experienced technicians.

SourceOptica·JournalOptica·DateJul 9, 2015
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.

Study of Ebola survivors opens in Liberia

A new study in Liberia will investigate the long-term health consequences of Ebola virus disease (EVD) in survivors, determining if they develop immunity that protects them from future infection. The study will also assess whether previously EVD-infected individuals can transmit infection to close contacts and sexual partners.

SourceNIH/National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases·DateJun 17, 2015

Researchers develop new computer-based vision screening test for young children

A new computerized vision-screening test, the Jaeb Visual Acuity Screener (JVAS), has been developed to identify children with subnormal visual acuity. The test uses a set testing algorithm to minimize subjective tester bias and provides simple pass/fail results for four age groups.

SourceElsevier Health Sciences·JournalJournal of American Association for Pediatric Ophthalmology and Strabismus·DateApr 28, 2015
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.

Rare mutation causes vitamin A deficiency and eye deformities

Researchers identified a rare genetic mutation in the RBP4 protein that causes severe vitamin A deficiency and eye deformities. The mutation creates a functional 'double-whammy' by blocking both the transport of retinol to the developing embryo and the cell surface receptor for RBP4, leading to birth defects.

SourceMichigan Medicine - University of Michigan·JournalCell·DateApr 23, 2015

Rare mutation causes vitamin A deficiency and eye deformities

Researchers discovered a genetic basis for congenital eye malformations, caused by mutations in the RBP4 protein that transports vitamin A. The mutated proteins fail to transport retinol and block cell surface receptors, leading to severe retinol deficiency and birth defects.

SourceUniversity of California - Davis Health·JournalCell·DateApr 23, 2015
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.

UH team works to help patients with Down syndrome see better

A team of UH College of Optometry researchers aims to improve the vision of individuals with Down syndrome using computer-simulated prescribing strategies. The study, funded by the National Eye Institute, hopes to demonstrate improved visual acuity with new prescription methods that consider optical distortions in the eyes.

SourceUniversity of Houston·DateFeb 11, 2015
Celestron NexStar 8SE Computerized Telescope

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

$3 million funding takes Monash Bionic Vision closer

The Monash Vision Group has received a significant boost in funding for its Bionic Eye project, which aims to restore vision to millions globally. With $3 million in philanthropic donations, the project is now on track for human trials next year and could change tens of thousands of lives.

SourceMonash University·DateDec 1, 2014
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.

Pitt receives $1.25 million from Defense Department for whole-eye transplantation

The University of Pittsburgh will lead a multidisciplinary consortium to explore strategies for whole-eye transplantation, with the goal of restoring vision in patients with traumatic or degenerative eye damage. The project aims to overcome challenges related to immune rejection and optic nerve regeneration.

SourceUniversity of Pittsburgh Schools of the Health Sciences·DateOct 7, 2014

New glaucoma cause discovered

Researchers at Northwestern University identify a critical chemical signaling pathway for the healthy functioning of Schlemm's canal, a key factor in developing glaucoma. They are now developing an eye drop that activates regrowth of the clogged vessel to lower pressure and restore normal drainage.

SourceNorthwestern University·JournalJournal of Clinical Investigation·DateSep 9, 2014

Outdoor activities may be linked to exfoliation syndrome in eyes

A new study suggests that spending time outdoors may contribute to the development of exfoliation syndrome in the eyes. The research found a link between UV radiation and the condition, with people living at higher latitudes and spending more time outside having a greater risk of developing XFS.

SourceJAMA Network·JournalJAMA Ophthalmology·DateSep 4, 2014
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.

Acute glaucoma discovered to be an inflammatory disease

Researchers have discovered that acute glaucoma is an inflammatory disease caused by high eye pressure, leading to vision loss. The study found that a rapid increase in eye pressure triggers an immune response that damages retinal cells.

SourceUniversity of California - San Diego·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateJul 14, 2014
Fluke 87V Industrial Digital Multimeter

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

Research proves shock wave from explosives causes significant eye damage

A recent study by UTSA researchers reveals that the shock wave from explosive blasts can cause significant eye damage, leading to partial or total blindness. The optic nerve is particularly vulnerable to injury, even at low pressures, and may be a contributing factor to visual deficits associated with traumatic brain injuries.

SourceUniversity of Texas at San Antonio·JournalInvestigative Ophthalmology & Visual Science·DateJun 30, 2014

Is glaucoma a brain disease?

A new study published in TVST found that glaucoma is controlled by the brain, not the eye. The research shows that as previously disabled optic nerve axons recover, the remaining areas of permanent visual loss coincide with the areas that can still see in the other eye, forming a jigsaw puzzle-like pattern.

SourceAssociation for Research in Vision and Ophthalmology·JournalTranslational Vision Science & Technology·DateJun 5, 2014

First reversible glue bandage could save injured soldiers' vision

Researchers developed a thermoresponsive adhesive that warms up and seals wounds, then reverts to its non-adhesive form when cooled. The technology could prevent retinal detachment and vision loss in military-related eye injuries.

SourceAssociation for Research in Vision and Ophthalmology·JournalInvestigative Ophthalmology & Visual Science·DateMay 5, 2014
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.

Next-generation glaucoma therapeutics hold considerable promise

Researchers explore new approaches to managing intraocular fluid buildup in the trabecular meshwork, a key structure controlling eye pressure. The development of next-generation glaucoma therapies aims to improve treatment options for those at risk of glaucoma.

SourceMary Ann Liebert, Inc./Genetic Engineering News·JournalJournal of Ocular Pharmacology and Therapeutics·DateApr 7, 2014

NHS sight tests lead to waste

Complex NHS sight tests are leading to unnecessary referrals and resource waste due to clinically insignificant abnormalities. Opticians refer patients to medical practitioners if abnormalities are found, but many of these referrals result in false positives and anxiety for patients.

SourceBMJ Group·JournalThe BMJ·DateMar 18, 2014
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.

Researchers collaborate to reduce effects of the aging eye

A special issue of IOVS addresses the aging eye, focusing on unmet needs and accelerating clinical care. The issue features new research on genetics, biology, and prevention/treatment of age-related diseases such as cataracts and macular degeneration.

SourceAssociation for Research in Vision and Ophthalmology·JournalInvestigative Ophthalmology & Visual Science·DateJan 17, 2014

Researchers point to digital gains in human recognition

New research by Dr Rob Jenkins and Christie Kerr uses high-resolution passport-style photographs to recover faces of bystanders from reflections in the eyes of photographic subjects. The recovered images can be identified accurately, even at low resolution, highlighting human face recognition's robustness.

SourceUniversity of York·JournalPLOS ONE·DateDec 26, 2013
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.

Common antibiotic may combat dry eye disease

Researchers identify azithromycin as a potential therapy for meibomian gland dysfunction, leading to improved treatment options for dry eye disease. The study suggests that topical azithromycin could directly stimulate the function of human meibomian gland epithelial cells.

SourceMass Eye and Ear·JournalJAMA Ophthalmology·DateDec 23, 2013

UBC-VCH scientists use drug to repair rare birth defect

Researchers at UBC-VCH have developed a potential cure for aniridia, a rare eye disease affecting 5,000 people in North America. They formulated the drug Ataluren into eye drops and found it restored normal vision in mice with the condition.

SourceUniversity of British Columbia·JournalJournal of Clinical Investigation·DateDec 20, 2013

It's all in your head

Researchers are exploring methods to monitor and understand intracranial pressure through the ear, eye, and head. These non-invasive techniques aim to provide accurate and safer ways to determine the correlation between intracranial pressure and vision impairment.

SourceNASA/Johnson Space Center·DateDec 18, 2013
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.

Contact lens discomfort: What is it, why does it occur and how can it be treated?

A global consensus has been reached on contact lens discomfort (CLD), with the Tear Film & Ocular Surface Society (TFOS) workshop report outlining key factors contributing to its generation. The findings suggest that CLD affects up to half of all contact lens wearers and highlight the need for innovative research in this field.

SourceAssociation for Research in Vision and Ophthalmology·JournalInvestigative Ophthalmology & Visual Science·DateOct 21, 2013

Short-term hearing loss can cause long-term problem

A study published in Nature Communications found that brief, reversible hearing loss during childhood can disrupt the processing of sound in the brain, leading to persistent hearing deficits. Researchers identified two critical periods after hearing onset that regulate how sounds from each ear are fused into a coherent representation.

SourceMass Eye and Ear·JournalNature Communications·DateSep 30, 2013

Setting blurred images in motion improves perception

A study found that motion-generated optic flow information compensates for the lack of image details and enables effective event perception. Participants correctly identified events in nearly 90% of attempts when viewing moving images, compared to less than 30% when viewing blurred static images.

SourceWolters Kluwer Health·JournalOptometry and Vision Science·DateSep 27, 2013

SLU researcher finds a turtle eye muscle adapts to deal with obstructed vision

A Saint Louis University researcher found that a specific eye muscle in pond turtles adapts to compensate for obstructed vision when their head is retracted into their shell. The study revealed unique characteristics of the turtle's eye movements, which differ from other animals with lateral eyes.

SourceSaint Louis University·JournalJournal of Comparative Neurology·DateSep 19, 2013
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.

Researchers find essential brain circuit in visual development

A study in mice reveals an essential brain circuit that helps dictate how the eyes connect to the brain, which could lead to new treatments for amblyopia. The research found that manipulating a specific brain circuit can prevent ocular dominance in young mice and induce it in older mice beyond the critical period.

SourceNIH/National Eye Institute·JournalNature·DateAug 25, 2013

Glaucoma drug can cause droopy eyelids

Researchers found that prostaglandin analogues (PGAs) can cause upper and lower eyelid drooping, hollowing of the inferior periorbital fat pads, and levator muscle dysfunction in glaucoma patients. The study suggests reevaluating PGA use for new patients to prevent vision loss.

SourceMass Eye and Ear·JournalPLOS ONE·DateMay 21, 2013
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.

Same musicians: Brand new tune

A new study by Stowers Institute for Medical Research reveals that Notch2, a Notch family protein, shapes an eye structure known as the ciliary body by ensuring BMP signals remain loud and clear. The findings provide crucial insights into how excessive pressure is a risk factor for glaucoma.

SourceStowers Institute for Medical Research·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateMay 14, 2013

Outdoor recess time can reduce the risk of nearsightedness in children

Two studies suggest that outdoor recess time can reduce the risk of nearsightedness in children. A Taiwanese study found that mandatory outdoor play reduced nearsightedness rates, while a Danish study showed a correlation between daylight exposure and slower eye growth.

SourceAmerican Academy of Ophthalmology·JournalOphthalmology·DateMay 1, 2013

Topical use of arthritis drug provides relief for dry eye disease

Researchers found that topical anakinra significantly reduced dry eye symptoms, eliminating corneal staining and improving signs of ocular surface disease. The treatment was well-tolerated and effective in reducing dry eye symptoms six times more than the current standard treatment.

SourceMass Eye and Ear·JournalJAMA Ophthalmology·DateApr 18, 2013
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.

Ranibizumab may prevent retinal detachment side effect

Researchers found that Ranibizumab reduced the bioactivity of vitreous from patients and experimental animals with PVR, protecting rabbits from developing this disease. The study suggests a novel prophylactic approach to neutralize VEGF-A for managing diseases.

SourceMass Eye and Ear·JournalAmerican Journal Of Pathology·DateApr 9, 2013

Hebrew University researchers show how we can do math problems unconsciously

Researchers at Hebrew University have found that people can read and solve complex mathematical problems without being consciously aware of them. Using a technique called Continuous Flash Suppression (CFS), the team showed that participants could complete arithmetic tasks more quickly when they were unconsciously presented with equations.

SourceThe Hebrew University of Jerusalem·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateNov 14, 2012
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.

Children's headaches rarely indicate a need for eyeglasses

A new study refutes the notion that frequent headaches in children are often caused by vision or eye problems. In fact, researchers found no significant correlation between headaches and the need for vision correction. Most children's headaches improved on their own over time, regardless of whether they received new glasses.

SourceAmerican Academy of Ophthalmology·DateNov 12, 2012