A team of researchers from the University of Rochester used adaptive optics to identify rare retinal ganglion cells that could help explain how humans perceive color. These non-cardinal RGCs may work in tandem with cardinal RGCs to create more complex color perceptions.
SourceUniversity of Rochester·JournalJNeurosci·DateApr 15, 2024
Researchers from the University of Rochester found that blinking allows brains to process visual information more effectively, providing a new understanding of how humans see. By modulating visual input, blinks reformulate visual signals, enabling better perception of big patterns and overall visual scenes.
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.
Researchers at NIH developed a novel AI-based method called P-GAN to improve next-generation imaging of cells in the retina. The technique reduces imaging acquisition and processing time by 100-fold, yielding greater contrast and improving image quality.
SourceNIH/National Eye Institute·JournalCommunications Medicine·TypeExperimental study·DateApr 10, 2024
A team of scientists from Pohang University of Science & Technology developed an artificial vitreous body based on alginate to treat retinal detachment. The hydrogel maintains vision post-surgery and regulates fluid dynamics within the eye, preventing recurrence and air bubble formation.
SourcePohang University of Science & Technology (POSTECH)·JournalBiomaterials·DateMar 25, 2024
Researchers at the University of Alabama at Birmingham discovered that the ALG6 variant is associated with altered phenotypes in patients with RP59, including delayed peripheral rod degeneration and diminished macular cone photoreceptor health. This study highlights the complex effects of modifier genes in human genetic disease.
SourceUniversity of Alabama at Birmingham·JournalInternational Journal of Molecular Sciences·TypeMeta-analysis·DateMar 20, 2024
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.
Researchers have made a breakthrough in developing genetic treatments for hereditary conditions like cystic fibrosis and inherited vision loss. They created a new type of lipid nanoparticle, called Thio-lipids, that can deliver therapeutic payloads to the lungs and retina.
SourceOregon State University·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateMar 4, 2024
A new study finds that gut bacteria can cause blindness in some inherited eye diseases by breaching the body's defenses. Treating these bacteria with antimicrobials may prevent sight loss, offering a potential new approach to treatment.
SourceUniversity College London·JournalCell·TypeExperimental study·DateFeb 26, 2024
A new study published in JAMA Ophthalmology suggests that artificial intelligence can match or exceed the expertise of seasoned ophthalmic specialists in diagnosing and treating patients with glaucoma and retina disorders. The AI system, GPT-4, demonstrated superior performance in response to glaucoma questions and case-management advice.
SourceThe Mount Sinai Hospital / Mount Sinai School of Medicine·JournalOphthalmology·TypeContent analysis·DateFeb 22, 2024
Researchers at Mount Sinai Health System developed a novel protocol for rapid diagnosis of eye stroke, improving outcomes and preserving vision. The protocol uses high-resolution retinal imaging in emergency rooms, along with remote consultation, to confirm diagnosis and expedite care.
SourceThe Mount Sinai Hospital / Mount Sinai School of Medicine·JournalOphthalmology·TypeRandomized controlled/clinical trial·DateFeb 13, 2024
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.
Researchers developed a machine learning framework that encodes images like a retina, reducing sensory encoding challenges in neural prostheses. The actor-model approach produced images eliciting a neuronal response more akin to the original image response.
SourceEcole Polytechnique Fédérale de Lausanne·JournalNature Communications·TypeExperimental study·DateFeb 7, 2024
Studies on knockout mice have shown that removal of specific matrix proteins leads to visual deficits, including impaired motion processing and synaptic imbalance. This research contributes to a better understanding of visual processing mechanisms, potentially offering new therapeutic approaches.
SourceRuhr-University Bochum·JournaliScience·TypeExperimental study·DateFeb 5, 2024
A University of Houston optometry researcher has warned against using low-level red light therapy for myopia in children due to potential retinal damage. The therapy, which involves prolonged exposure to a red light-emitting instrument, can put the retina at risk of photochemical and thermal damage.
SourceUniversity of Houston·JournalOphthalmic and Physiological Optics·DateJan 29, 2024
Apple iPhone 17 Pro
Apple iPhone 17 Pro delivers top performance and advanced cameras for field documentation, data collection, and secure research communications.
Researchers used fMRI to assess brain responses to lights stimulating only cone cells in dogs with different types of retinal diseases. The study found that gene augmentation therapy restored response in cortex to black and white stimulation, making this disease a promising one for photoreceptor cell replacement treatment.
SourceUniversity of Pennsylvania·JournalTranslational Vision Science & Technology·TypeExperimental study·DateJan 26, 2024
Researchers found that intrinsically-photosensitive retinal ganglion cells (ipRGCs) use both microvillous and ciliary signaling mechanisms simultaneously. This discovery reveals a new pathway for transmitting light signals to the brain, which may have ancient origins on the evolutionary scale.
SourceJohns Hopkins Medicine·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateJan 25, 2024
A study combines retinal imaging, genetics, and big data to estimate the likelihood of developing eye and systemic diseases. The researchers identified significant associations between retinal layer thickness and increased risk of various diseases, including ocular, neuropsychiatric, cardiac, metabolic, and pulmonary diseases.
SourceMass Eye and Ear·JournalScience Translational Medicine·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateJan 24, 2024
Researchers discovered how an offshoot of vitamin A generates the cells that enable people to see millions of colors. The study found that a molecule called retinoic acid determines whether a cone will specialize in sensing red or green light, making humans uniquely color-savvy.
SourceJohns Hopkins University·JournalPLOS Biology·TypeExperimental study·DateJan 11, 2024
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.
Researchers used OCTA to visualize retinal blood vessel changes in migraine patients during and between attacks. Blood flow decreases were found, with asymmetrical flow correlated to headache pain side.
SourceUniversity of California - Los Angeles Health Sciences·JournalHeadache The Journal of Head and Face Pain·TypeRandomized controlled/clinical trial·DateJan 5, 2024
Researchers identified Elovanoid-34, a molecule that modulates the activity of TXNRD1 protein, which regulates antioxidant defenses. This discovery opens new therapeutic avenues for degenerative brain and eye diseases, as well as promoting healthy aging.
SourceLouisiana State University Health Sciences Center·JournalCell Death and Disease·TypeExperimental study·DateDec 18, 2023
Researchers used AI to analyze electroretinogram signals from children's eyes, identifying unique features associated with autism spectrum disorder (ASD). The test, completed within 10 minutes, shows promise for diagnosing ASD more accurately and efficiently than current methods.
SourceUniversity of South Australia·JournalResearch in Autism Spectrum Disorders·TypeRandomized controlled/clinical trial·DateDec 17, 2023
Researchers develop a versatile imaging system for targeted spectroscopy in the eye fundus, allowing for continuous color imaging and spectral measurements. The system enables users to select targets and move them to any location within the eye fundus region without realignment or fixation changes.
SourceSPIE--International Society for Optics and Photonics·JournalJournal of Biomedical Optics·DateDec 15, 2023
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.
A diagnostic study of 1,890 eyes supports the use of artificial intelligence in screening for autism spectrum disorder (ASD) and assessing symptom severity. Retinal photographs may improve accessibility to specialized assessments by reducing resource strain.
SourceJAMA Network·JournalJAMA Network Open·DateDec 15, 2023
Researchers found that most cell types in the retina are ancient and conserved across species, indicating a complex retina in the last common ancestor of all mammals. The study suggests that some cell types have been remodeled or repurposed over time to adapt to different visual needs.
SourceUniversity of California - Berkeley·JournalNature·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateDec 13, 2023
Researchers have developed an AI-powered system to diagnose autism spectrum disorder (ASD) in children using a single flash of light to the eye. The system uses electroretinography (ERG) to identify specific features that classify ASD, providing a faster and more accurate method for diagnosis than existing tests.
SourceUniversity of South Australia·JournalResearch in Autism Spectrum Disorders·TypeCase study·DateDec 12, 2023
Scientists at Johns Hopkins Medicine have identified a molecular pathway involving oxidative stress and the protein HIF-1 that contributes to both wet and dry age-related macular degeneration. Researchers found that while HIF-1 promotes blood vessel growth in retinal cells, it also protects against cell death in advanced dry AMD.
SourceJohns Hopkins Medicine·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateDec 11, 2023
Researchers used 3D eye scans to detect changes in the retina and monitor kidney health, finding that thinner retinas correlated with declining kidney function. The technology has potential to support early diagnosis and aid lifestyle changes to reduce health complications.
SourceUniversity of Edinburgh·JournalNature Communications·DateDec 5, 2023
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.
Researchers have successfully converted human retinal cells, specifically Muller glia, into neurons in a lab setting using an artificial fish-like genetic program. This breakthrough could potentially serve as a new source of neurons to treat vision loss caused by disease or trauma.
SourceInternational Society for Stem Cell Research·JournalStem Cell Reports·DateNov 30, 2023
Researchers found that ON pathways are more sensitive in humans but less effective at low light, contributing to myopia progression. Pupil reflexes driven by ON pathways also become weaker, limiting outdoor protection.
SourceState University of New York College of Optometry·JournalJNeurosci·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateNov 28, 2023
A multidisciplinary team at Mass Eye and Ear has identified a promising new strategy for glaucoma cell replacement therapy by guiding stem cells to the retina. The researchers created RGCs out of stem cells and used chemokines to guide them to their correct positions within the retina.
SourceMass Eye and Ear·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·TypeExperimental study·DateNov 17, 2023
Researchers at Nagoya University identified the link between iron and blindness caused by ocular toxoplasmosis, a parasite affecting one-third of the world's population. Controlling iron levels has shown promise as a potential cure.
SourceNagoya University·JournalRedox Biology·DateNov 14, 2023
Researchers have developed a retina-like biochip that mimics the eye's visual pathways, using conductive polymers and light-sensitive molecules. The chip's non-toxic organic components and flexibility make it suitable for integration into biological systems, paving the way for new treatments for neurological diseases.
SourceForschungszentrum Juelich·JournalNature Communications·TypeExperimental study·DateNov 2, 2023
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.
A recent human study found that grape consumption improved key markers of eye health in older adults, including increased Macular Pigment Optical Density (MPOD) and reduced AGEs. Regular grape intake was also shown to increase plasma antioxidant capacity and total phenolic content.
SourceCalifornia Table Grape Commission·JournalFood & Function·TypeRandomized controlled/clinical trial·DateOct 5, 2023
A team of researchers at Utah State University has successfully created an in vitro model of Bruch's membrane, a layer in the retina that deteriorates with age. The model uses hagfish slime proteins to replicate the natural aging process and disease progression, providing a valuable tool for studying age-related macular degeneration.
SourceUtah State University·JournalACS Biomaterials Science & Engineering·TypeExperimental study·DateSep 13, 2023
Age-related macular degeneration (AMD) decreases essential fatty acid docosahexaenoic acid (DHA), limiting protective molecule formation and repair potential. The discovery may open new therapeutic avenues for AMD, particularly in females, who are more susceptible to retinal degeneration due to estrogen effects.
SourceLouisiana State University Health Sciences Center·JournalExperimental Eye Research·TypeExperimental study·DateSep 11, 2023
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.
A study at the University of Gothenburg found that preterm babies given a supplement with omega-3 and omega-6 fatty acids had improved visual function by age 2.5. The supplement also seemed to improve the brain's ability to interpret visual impressions.
SourceUniversity of Gothenburg·JournalThe Lancet Regional Health - Europe·TypeRandomized controlled/clinical trial·DateAug 24, 2023
Researchers have successfully transplanted human microglia cells into mouse retina, creating a model for studying treatments for diabetic retinopathy, glaucoma, and age-related macular degeneration. The study demonstrates the potential of microglial replacement therapy to treat retinal and central nervous system diseases.
A study published in Neurology has identified markers of Parkinson's disease in eye scans, detecting the condition up to seven years before clinical presentation. Researchers used AI-powered analysis of retinal images from two large datasets to uncover subtle changes associated with Parkinson's.
SourceUniversity College London·JournalNeurology·TypeComputational simulation/modeling·DateAug 21, 2023
A Cochrane review of 17 randomised controlled trials found that blue-light filtering spectacles may not reduce visual fatigue associated with computer use and do not improve sleep quality. The evidence is also unclear on their effects on retinal health.
SourceCochrane·JournalCochrane Database of Systematic Reviews·TypeSystematic review·DateAug 17, 2023
Researchers from Anglia Ruskin University have successfully grown retinal pigment epithelial cells on a nanofibre scaffold treated with fluocinolone acetonide, showing increased resilience and growth. This breakthrough technology has great potential for developing ocular tissue transplantation to treat age-related macular degeneration.
SourceAnglia Ruskin University·JournalMaterials·TypeExperimental study·DateJul 28, 2023
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.
Researchers at Columbia University Irving Medical Center have discovered that an experimental eye drop treatment can reduce swelling and improve blood flow in the retina of mice with retinal vein occlusion, a common eye disease affecting up to 2% of people over age 40. The study found that the eye drops prevented neurons from deteriora...
SourceColumbia University Irving Medical Center·JournalFrontiers in Neuroscience·TypeExperimental study·DateJul 12, 2023
Researchers have confirmed that measuring retinal layer thickness can significantly improve MS diagnosis and predict progression. The study found a strong correlation between retinal damage and brain damage, paving the way for earlier treatment and better patient outcomes.
SourceMedical University of Vienna·JournalNeurology·DateJul 6, 2023
Researchers developed an innovative imaging approach using two-photon microscopy to analyze retinal microcirculation, revealing significant changes in blood flow that may indicate brain diseases. The study suggests that microcirculation in the retina could serve as a promising predictor of cerebrovascular diseases.
SourceSPIE--International Society for Optics and Photonics·JournalNeurophotonics·DateJun 14, 2023
Researchers at the University of Georgia found that a diet rich in colorful fruits and vegetables can improve athletes' visual range by acting as a filter to prevent blue light exposure. This improvement can lead to better eye health and functional vision, essential for top athletes in almost any sport.
SourceUniversity of Georgia·JournalExercise and Sport Sciences Reviews·DateJun 8, 2023
A new study by Flinders University research team led by Professor Justine Smith has found that women are more likely to experience recurrent cases of toxoplasmosis eye disease. The study also revealed significant differences in the type and characteristics of the disease between men and women.
SourceFlinders University·JournalBritish Journal of Ophthalmology·TypeCase study·DateJun 1, 2023
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 have found that stimulating a specific bile acid receptor, FXR, may help prevent retinopathy of prematurity in premature babies. By targeting this receptor, the study aims to develop earlier and more effective treatments to protect their vision.
SourceMedical College of Georgia at Augusta University·DateMay 30, 2023
Researchers at Brown University have developed a new imaging technique to track changes in blood vessels in the brains of mice, which could lead to early detection of neurodegenerative diseases. The method uses advanced imaging techniques and AI algorithms to identify biomarkers that may predict disease onset.
SourceBrown University·JournalNature Communications·TypeExperimental study·DateMay 25, 2023
Researchers developed an experimental drug, 32-134D, that inhibits HIF protein levels, reducing blood vessel production and leakiness in diabetic eyes. The study shows promising results in both human cell models and mice, suggesting a safer therapeutic approach for diabetic eye disease.
SourceJohns Hopkins Medicine·JournalJournal of Clinical Investigation·DateMay 25, 2023
A diagnostic study using 4,095 retinal fundus images found that biomarker-based AI algorithms can be susceptible to racial bias, even when trained on raw images. This issue highlights the need for careful evaluation of AI performance in diverse populations.
SourceJAMA Network·JournalJAMA Ophthalmology·DateMay 4, 2023
Researchers discovered that a certain short-wave or blue sensitive cone circuit is absent in marmosets and differs from the macaque monkey's circuit. This finding suggests that humans have unique neural wiring for color vision that may be linked to recent evolutionary adaptations.
SourceUniversity of Washington School of Medicine/UW Medicine·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·TypeExperimental study·DateMay 1, 2023
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.
A deep learning AI model has been developed to screen for retinopathy of prematurity (ROP) in infants at risk of blindness. The tool was trained on images of newborns and found to be as effective as senior paediatric ophthalmologists in discriminating normal retinal images from those with ROP that could lead to blindness.
SourceUniversity College London·JournalThe Lancet Digital Health·TypeComputational simulation/modeling·DateApr 27, 2023
A study found ChatGPT answered less than half of the test questions correctly, scoring 46% initially and 56% after a month. The AI tool performed well on general medicine questions but struggled with ophthalmology subspecialties.
SourceSt. Michael's Hospital·JournalJAMA Ophthalmology·DateApr 27, 2023
Researchers have found a new target and drug combination that appears to stop the destruction of vision in premature newborns. By blocking ACAT1, an enzyme that converts cholesterol into smaller pieces, scientists can prevent the formation of leaky blood vessels and inflammation in the retina.
SourceMedical College of Georgia at Augusta University·JournalJournal of Neuroinflammation·DateApr 20, 2023
Researchers have built a new model to examine Usher Syndrome, a leading cause of combined deafness and blindness. The model replicates the visual problems not addressed by previous models, offering insight into strategies for designing therapeutic interventions.
SourceUniversity of Houston·JournalNature Communications·DateApr 17, 2023
Aranet4 Home CO2 Monitor
Aranet4 Home CO2 Monitor tracks ventilation quality in labs, classrooms, and conference rooms with long battery life and clear e-ink readouts.
Researchers at Duke-NUS Medical School have achieved significant vision recovery in experimental models of damaged retinas using stem cells. The study marks a promising step towards potentially restoring vision in eye diseases characterized by photoreceptor loss.
SourceDuke-NUS Medical School·JournalMolecular Therapy·DateApr 13, 2023
A large study of over 3 million patients receiving the mRNA COVID-19 vaccine found extremely rare cases of retinal vascular occlusion. The researchers concluded that there is no evidence suggesting an association between the vaccine and newly diagnosed RVO, rates similar to those of other vaccinations.
SourceJAMA Network·JournalJAMA Ophthalmology·DateApr 13, 2023
A recent study revealed the key to a protein that commonly causes blindness, including its role in transporting toxic compounds out of the eye. Mutations in this protein can cause vision loss in diseases like Stargardt disease, which affects approximately 30,000 people nationwide.
SourceAmerican Society for Biochemistry and Molecular Biology·JournalJournal of Biological Chemistry·TypeExperimental study·DateApr 4, 2023
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.
Researchers have developed a non-invasive method to track human aging using retinal scans, which are less expensive and more accurate than other aging clocks. The study found that changes in the eye can provide an actionable evaluation of gero-protective therapeutics, offering a new tool for tracking aging.
SourceBuck Institute for Research on Aging·JournaleLife·TypeImaging analysis·DateMar 28, 2023
Researchers developed a new form of omega-3 fatty acid DHA that can cross into the retina, increasing retinal DHA content and preserving function. This approach overcomes previous barriers and shows promise for preventing Alzheimer's-related declines in visual function.
SourceAmerican Society for Biochemistry and Molecular Biology·DateMar 27, 2023
Researchers discovered that 'dormant' cone photoreceptors in retinal degeneration continue to produce responses to light and drive retinal activity for vision. The study found that while cones have reduced sensitivity, ganglion cells retain their ability to respond to visual stimuli with similar spatial and temporal sensitivity.
SourceUniversity of California - Los Angeles Health Sciences·JournalCurrent Biology·DateMar 27, 2023
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.
Studies suggest that four genetic variants controlling eye pigmentation also regulate retinal health, with imbalances linked to diseases like neurodegenerative conditions. The kynurenine pathway's metabolites play a crucial role in maintaining retinal health.
SourceMax Planck Institute of Molecular Cell Biology and Genetics (MPI-CBG)·JournalPLOS Genetics·TypeExperimental study·DateMar 23, 2023
Researchers used UK Biobank image and genomic data to uncover insights into rare retinal dystrophies, a leading cause of blindness in working-age adults. The study identified new genetic associations with the thickness of photoreceptor cell layers, offering new avenues for research and diagnosis.
SourceEuropean Molecular Biology Laboratory·JournalPLOS Genetics·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateMar 9, 2023