Eye Conditions Research Articles

VISTA: vision improvement via split and reconstruct deep neural network for fundus image quality assessment

AbstractWidespread eye conditions such as cataracts, diabetic retinopathy, and glaucoma impact people worldwide. Ophthalmology uses fundus photography for diagnosing these retinal disorders, but fundus images are prone to image quality challenges. Accurate diagnosis hinges on high-quality fundus images. Therefore, there is a need for image quality assessment methods to evaluate fundus images before diagnosis. Consequently, this paper introduces a deep learning model tailored for fundus images that supports large images. Our division method centres on preserving the original image’s high-resolution features while maintaining low computing and high accuracy. The proposed approach encompasses two fundamental components: an autoencoder model for input image reconstruction and image classification to classify the image quality based on the latent features extracted by the autoencoder, all performed at the original image size, without alteration, before reassembly for decoding networks. Through post hoc interpretability methods, we verified that our model focuses on key elements of fundus image quality. Additionally, an intrinsic interpretability module has been designed into the network that allows decomposing class scores into underlying concepts quality such as brightness or presence of anatomical structures. Experimental results in our model with EyeQ, a fundus image dataset with three categories (Good, Usable, and Rejected) demonstrate that our approach produces competitive outcomes compared to other deep learning-based methods with an overall accuracy of 0.9066, a precision of 0.8843, a recall of 0.8905, and an impressive F1-score of 0.8868. The code is publicly available at https://github.com/saifalkhaldiurv/VISTA_-Image-Quality-Assessment.

Postural control strategies with alterations in visual input conditions in a standing position.

Mediated by balance systems, postural control relies heavily on visual input. However, the precise relationship between various visual conditions and postural strategies for balance remains unclear. This study investigated alterations in the center of pressure (COP) and ankle muscle activity during standing positions in healthy individuals under different visual conditions. Fifty-three healthy university students participated in the study. Stabilometry was conducted to evaluate the total path length and outer circumferential area for the COP. Further, surface electromyography was utilized to assess the activity of the bilateral tibialis anterior (TA) and lateral head of gastrocnemius muscles. Participants were instructed to maintain an upright posture under three visual conditions: binocular (eyes open) and monocular (either closing the dominant or nondominant eye). The three conditions were compared using a one-way analysis of variance. No significant differences were observed in the COP across visual conditions. However, in the TA of the nondominant leg, the mean values for the binocular, dominant eye, and nondominant eye conditions were 0.91, 1.08, and 1.14 times that of the resting standing position. Notably, the TA of the nondominant leg was significantly lower in the binocular condition than the dominant and nondominant eye conditions. The study findings indicate that the COP remain consistent despite variations in external visual input. This stability is likely maintained through compensatory adjustments, such as increased TA muscle activity in the nondominant leg under the nondominant eye condition. These observations highlight the complex interplay between the visual perception and postural stability.

Ugandan optometry students’ experiences of their clinical training: a qualitative study

BackgroundThere is a gradual increase in the number of optometry education programs in Africa yet there is limited knowledge on optometry students’ experiences of their clinical training. Therefore, the purpose of this study was to explore the optometry students’ experiences of their clinical learning environment at a national referral and teaching hospital in Uganda.MethodsBetween April 2023 and May 2023, face to face in-depth interviews were conducted to explore the experiences of the participants. All 16 optometry students in fourth-year at university were purposefully recruited into the study. Data was collected at the end of the students’ clinical training at the eye clinic of a national referral and teaching hospital. Interviews were audio recorded and transcribed for analysis using an inductive thematic approach.ResultsTwo themes, learning at the eye clinic and organization of the eye clinic, were identified to represent participants’ experiences. Each theme had three sub themes.ConclusionTraining optometry students at an eye clinic enhances their clinical skills and knowledge of diagnosing and managing various eye conditions. Future studies should compare optometry students’ experiences in lower-level health units to those in national referral hospitals.

Convolutional Neural Networks (CNNs) for detection of Eye Diseases in an Effective Manner

Introduction: This thesis concentrates on advancing a deep learning system for the precise classification of eye illnesses. Employing the Convolutional Neural Network (CNN) algorithm and Tkinter for GUI, the interface safeguards an intuitive and user-friendly experience. The system effectively identifies various eye conditions, including glaucoma, cataracts, diabetic retinopathy, among others. Objectives: The main goal of this thesis is to offer a reliable and efficient solution for classifying eye diseases through deep learning techniques by addressing the critical need for timely and accurate diagnosis. The significant contributions of this thesis include: Publication of new datasets beneficial to researchers in the field. Enhancement of a robust segmentation approach, applicable to various retinal conditions, including diabetic retinopathy. Methods: A supervised learning approach adopted to train the CNN algorithm with an extensive dataset of eye images. The system achieved an impressive accuracy in classifying eye diseases, underscoring its effectiveness in identification and diagnosis. Development of a hybrid characteristic extraction method from segmented objects, utilized by the classifier for detecting glaucoma and other eye diseases. Results: This system will be able to detect and diagnose the diseases which are related with Eys which will help patients to take care of eyes from further complications. Furthermore, with advancements in portable retinal cameras, integrating the proposed method can facilitate the diagnosis of glaucoma and other eye diseases, thereby enhancing the detection rate, especially in growing nations. Conclusions: The developed system significantly enhances the accuracy and efficiency of eye disease diagnosis, enabling early detection and treatment. The integration of Tkinter for GUI and the color-blind test feature improves the user experience, making the system more accessible to a broader audience. This thesis underscores the potential of deep learning techniques in medical diagnosis, presenting a valuable tool for healthcare professionals and patients alike.

Effect of Kshoudradi Aschyotana in Arjuna w.s.r to Sub-Conjunctival Haemorrhage: A Randomised Clinical Trial

Introduction: Subconjunctival haemorrhage (SCH) is a frequent eye condition marked by bleeding beneath the conjunctiva, which causes noticeable discoloration and generally disturbs the affected person. There is currently no specific treatment for SCH in contemporary medical practices. According to Ayurveda, it correlates with Arjuna. It is a rakta pradoshaj vikara (disease caused by vitiated blood) and primarily a pitta-predominant disease manifesting in the Shukla mandala of netra. Objectives: The objective of the study was to compare the efficacy of Kshoudradi Aschyotana with Flurbiprofen Eye Drops in Arjuna with special reference to sub-conjunctival haemorrhage. Materials and Methods: After securing ethical clearance and registering the trial with the CTRI, twenty patients satisfying the inclusion criteria and diagnosed with arjuna were randomised into two groups(10 in each group). The trial group and the control group received Kshoudradi Aschyotana and Flurbiprofen eye drops for 5 days respectively. Objective parameters were assessed using Slit-Lamp photography and the area of the lesions was recorded on the baseline, 5th, and 7th days. The statistical analysis of the area of haemorrhage was conducted using independent and paired t-test for between and within-group analysis respectively. Results: Kshaudraadi Aschyotana has exhibited better results in reducing the area of subconjunctival haemorrhage as compared with flurbiprofen eye drops within five days(P <0.05). Conclusion: The study concludes that Kshaudraadi Aschyotana has beneficial effects in the management of Arjuna as compared with the flurbiprofen eyedrops.

Affordable ultra-widefield smartphone PedCam for comprehensive pediatric retinal examination

Widefield fundus photography is critical for the detection, documentation, and management of pediatric eye diseases. Existing clinical pediatric fundus cameras offer a limited field of view (FOV) and suboptimal image contrast, hindering comprehensive peripheral retina examination. Additionally, the high cost and lack of portability of commercial devices restrict their use in resource-limited settings. We introduce a cost-effective smartphone-based pediatric camera (PedCam) that provides a 180° eye angle (126° visual angle) snapshot FOV. Utilizing trans-pars planar illumination, the device enables nonmydriatic imaging by allocating the pupil exclusively for imaging, eliminating the need for pharmacological pupillary dilation. By adjusting the optical axis of the PedCam relative to the ocular axis, the effective FOV can be expanded up to 240° eye angle (180° visual angle), enabling complete retinal evaluation. This innovative smartphone PedCam represents a significant advancement in affordable telemedicine for the screening, monitoring, and management of retinopathy of prematurity and other pediatric eye conditions.

BMAL1 Deficiency Provokes Dry Mouth and Eyes by Down-regulating ITPR2/3

Secretory glands, responsible for tears and saliva production, play essential roles in maintaining ocular and oral well-being. Disruptions in gland secretion can arise from various factors, including rhythm disturbances associated with sleep disorders. However, the underlying mechanisms governing these disruptions remain largely unexplored. We demonstrate that BMAL1, a core component of the circadian system, plays a critical role in regulating secretory gland secretion. Loss of BMAL1 induces vacuolation and atrophy phenotypes in acinar cells, subsequently leading to cell apoptosis and gland hypofunction, but does not cause Sjogren's syndrome, which is characterized by localized inflammatory cell infiltration. Mechanically, BMAL1 directly modulates the transcription of ITPR2 and ITPR3, thereby altering the secretion of Lactoferrin and Lysozyme. Restoration of ITPR2 and ITPR3 expression in Bmal1-deficient rats effectively alleviated the symptoms of lacrimal and parotid glands secretory dysfunction and significantly reduced dry mouth and dry eye conditions in rhythm-disordered rats. These findings highlight the essential role of BMAL1 in regulating salivary and lacrimal gland secretion and suggest a novel therapeutic approach for treating dry mouth and dry eyes associated with rhythm disorders.

Awareness, Knowledge, Attitudes, and Practices Regarding Diabetic Retinopathy Among Residents of Jazan City, Saudi Arabia.

Eye diseases, particularly diabetic retinopathy, cataracts, and glaucoma, are significant public health challenges globally, affecting quality of life. Diabetic retinopathy, a common diabetes complication, is a leading cause of visual impairment among working-age adults due to chronic hyperglycemia. Despite treatment advances, awareness of this condition remains low, especially in high-risk populations. This study explores the awareness, knowledge, attitudes, and practices regarding eye health among residents of Jazan City, Saudi Arabia. This cross-sectional study utilized an online survey distributed via social media from August 1 to August 30, 2024. Targeting adults aged 18 and older, the survey assessed demographics, knowledge of eye diseases, and awareness of screening practices. After refining through a pilot test and validation by experts, data were collected anonymously via Google Forms (Google, Mountain View, California, United States) and analyzed using IBM SPSS Statistics for Windows, Version 27.0 (Released 2020; IBM Corp., Armonk, New York, United States). A total of 424 participants completed the survey, comprising 236 females (55.7%) and 186 males (43.9%), with the majority aged 18-45 years (n=379, 89.4%). Significant knowledge gaps were evident, as 284 participants (67%) were unaware of diabetic retinopathy, with only 138 (32.5%) recognizing the condition. Awareness of treatability was limited; 261 participants (61.6%) were uncertain about available treatment options. Social media (n=112, 26.4%) and family or friends (n=106, 25%) were the primary sources of information regarding eye health. While most participants believed in the necessity of regular eye examinations, many had not undergone such screenings. This study reveals critical gaps in knowledge and awareness of eye diseases, particularly diabetic retinopathy, among residents of Jazan City, Saudi Arabia. Although participants generally recognize the importance of eye health, misconceptions about the causes, risk factors, and treatment options for common eye conditions persist. Targeted public health initiatives and educational interventions are essential to enhance awareness and promote proactive eye health behaviors. Improving understanding and access to eye care services can facilitate the early detection and management of eye diseases, ultimately reducing the burden of visual impairment in the community.

Artificial Intelligence (AI) enable advanced and accurate diagnostics eye health station for critical eye conditions

Millions worldwide suffer from various eye conditions such as Diabetic retinopathy, Cataract, Myopia, glaucoma, Age-related eye disorders, and those arising from hypertension. However, the existing healthcare infrastructure often falls short in providing timely intervention and prevention strategies. Many individuals lack access to advanced diagnostic tools and expert medical professionals, leading to undetected or poorly managed eye conditions. Consequently, irreversible damage occurs, diminishing the quality of life for affected individuals and placing a significant burden on healthcare systems. The Eye Health Station work aims to address these challenges by establishing a visionary and comprehensive medical facility dedicated to eye healthcare. Central to our approach is early intervention and prevention. Through the utilization of cutting-edge technology, including advanced imaging and diagnostic tools, we empower our team of seasoned ophthalmologists, optometrists, and medical professionals to deliver precise and timely assessments. Regular screenings and vigilant monitoring enable us to detect eye conditions at their incipient stages, facilitating effective intervention before irreversible damage occurs. Additionally, our commitment extends to personalize treatment plans tailored to each patient's unique needs, ensuring comprehensive and holistic care. By combining state-of-the-art technology with expert medical expertise, the Eye Health Station stands as a beacon of hope, preserving and restoring vision for individuals across all age groups and enhancing their quality of life.

Global certification of visual impairment registries: A scoping review.

Visual impairment is a global problem which is predicted to rise in the coming years. Some of the biggest causes of visual impairment globally include uncorrected refractive error, cataract and age-related macular degeneration. People with a visual impairment often require support and so many countries hold registers of visual impairment. These registers can sit at a national, regional or local level. This scoping review aims to identify which countries hold visual impairment registries and have published data from them. Medline All, Embase and EBSCOHost were searched using several search terms after consulting an information specialist. All papers after the year 2000 were included in the scoping review. All results are shown using a PRISMA diagram and presented narratively. The total number of articles and papers identified was 1266; after screening and review, 57 articles were included in the review from 2000 to 2024. These articles came from 19 different countries and encompassed national, regional and local visual impairment databases. Many countries cited age-related macular degeneration as the major cause of blindness with diabetic retinopathy and glaucoma following. In less economically developed countries, refractive error was the main cause of sight loss. There were papers which focused on specific eye conditions such as glaucoma and diabetic retinopathy or on specific cohorts including working-age population and children. The leading causes of blindness in children appeared to be inherited retinal diseases, albinism and cerebral visual impairment. Certification of visual impairment is held differently across the world. There is commonality among different countries regarding the major causes of visual impairment in both adults and children. The importance of holding visual impairment registers to support people with a visual impairment and to plan services is essential.

Clinical characteristics and diagnostic test for spherophakia: A retrospective analysis

BackgroundThis study aimed to analyze ocular characteristics in patients diagnosed with spherophakia, establish effective diagnostic criteria, and aid clinicians in prompt identification and management. MethodsA retrospective case series identified spherophakia cases through medical records and literature searches. The case group included spherophakia patients, and the control group comprised individuals with similar eye conditions. Intraocular lens calculations used the SRK-T formula, and statistical analyses were performed using SPSS. Diagnostic efficacy was assessed through receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curve analysis. ResultsThe study included 12 cases (23 eyes) from medical records and 86 patients (142 eyes) from literature sources. Characteristics of spherophakia included bilateral involvement, younger age, shallow anterior chamber depth, lens dislocation, and secondary glaucoma. A diagnostic criterion based on lens power demonstrated high sensitivity (94.3 %) and specificity (91.9 %). ROC analysis yielded area under the ROC curve (AUROC) values of 0.974 for lens power, outperforming refractive error (0.119), corneal curvature (0.465) and axial length (0.496). The lens power cutoff for diagnosing spherophakia was 31.25D. ConclusionThe study offers crucial insights into spherophakia's clinical characteristics and presents a practical diagnostic criterion using lens power, enhancing early detection and management. Further research is needed to validate and refine these findings, establishing standardized diagnostic criteria for spherophakia.

Dynamics of the perceptive field size in human adults

The receptive field (RF) is the fundamental processing unit of human vision; both masking and crowding depend on its size. The RF has a psychophysical corresponding term, the perceptive field (PF); whereas the RF is measured physiologically, the PF is measured psychophysically (a perceptual response). We investigated how spatial (lateral interactions), temporal (the stimulus presentation time), and the procedure affect the PF size for both monocular and binocular viewing. The stimuli consisted of a central vertically oriented Gabor target and high-contrast Gabor flankers positioned in two configurations (orthogonal or collinear) with target-flanker separations of either 2 or 3 wavelengths (λ). We used two main methods to control the monocular and binocular vision: mono-optic glasses vs. stereo glasses. The presentation order was either mixed or non-mixed for the presentation time and the eye condition. We estimated the PF size for both monocular and binocular viewing at 4 different presentation times (40, 80,120, and 200 ms) with different orders of presentation in each experiment (mono-optic glasses vs. stereo glasses, utilizing the lateral masking paradigm). In each experiment we explored one variable: how changing one parameter would affect the PF size in both monocular and binocular viewing (the temporal duration, the testing order of conditions, and the spatial distance) while keeping the others constant. We found that both the monocular and binocular PF size were dynamic and were significantly affected by the presentation order, leading to reduced lateral suppression under the collinear 2λ condition. Hence, both the monocular and binocular PF size depended on the sequence of the stimulus presentation time and the testing order of the conditions. Furthermore, we found that the binocular PF size was significantly larger than the monocular PF size.

Erigeron breviscapus: A Promising Medication for Protecting the Optic Nerve in Glaucoma.

Glaucoma is a common eye condition characterized by the loss of retinal ganglion cells and their axons, optic nerve damage, and visual field defects, which seriously affect a patient's quality of life. The pathogenesis of glaucoma is still unclear at present. It presents as damage to retinal ganglion cells, and the main treatment is primarily to reduce intraocular pressure by surgery or taking medication. However, even with well-controlled intraocular pressure, retinal ganglion cells still undergo degeneration, progressive apoptosis, and axonal loss. Therefore, protecting the optic nerve and inhibiting the apoptosis of retinal ganglion cells are the current hot topic for prevention and treatment of glaucoma. Recently, Erigeron breviscapus, originating from Yunnan province in China, has been shown to be a promising herb with neuroprotective effects to treat glaucoma. Therefore, the traditional usage, botanical characteristics, and phytochemical composition of E. breviscapus were explored through a literature review. Furthermore, we have summarized the pharmacological mechanisms of E. breviscapus and its active components in inhibiting the apoptosis of retinal ganglion cells. These research findings can not only provide guidance and recommendations for the protection of retinal ganglion cells but also further explore the potential of E. breviscapus in the treatment of glaucoma.

Efficacy of topical autologous serum versus preservative free artificial tears in patients having isotretinoin induced dry eye diseases

Aim of this study was to compare the efficacy and safety of topical autologous serum versus preservative free artificial tears in management of systemic Isotretinoin induced dry eye In this prospective observational analytical study a total of 182 eyes of 97 patients with systemic Isotretinoin induced dry eye were enrolled. Baseline evaluations including the ocular surface disease index (OSDI) scoring, Schirmer’s test, tear film break up time (TBUT) and National Eye Institute (NEI) grading for corneal and conjunctival staining were performrd. All study subject were underwent thorough ophthalmic examinations including best-corrected visual acuity (BCVA) assessments and intraocular pressure measurements. The study participants were divided into two groups: group I treated with 40% autologous serum (AS) and group II treated with preservative free artificial tears (PFAT). Follow-up evaluation were conducted at 15 days, 1 month, 2 months, and 3 months. Statistical Analysis: The results were analyzed using the Chi-square test and t-test. P<0.05 was considered statistically significant.: After 3 months of treatment, a significant improvement was noticed in OSDI, Schirmer’s test, TBUT, and NEI Scoring in both AS and PFAT groups but improvement was found stronger in AS group as compared to PFAT group (p < 0.001).Topical autologous serum may be an effective alternative for treatment of dry eye condition caused by drug Isotretinoin.

The burden of acute eye conditions on different healthcare providers in Wales: a retrospective population-based study

Objective & ApproachDemand for urgent eyecare exponentially outstrips public healthcare capacity in the United Kingdom. Such eye conditions, and related vision impairment, affect the lives of people everywhere. We aimed to quantify the burden of urgent eyecare on primary- and community-care providers in a national population using data produced by General Practitioner, Accident and Emergency, pharmacy and optometry services. A secondary aim was to characterise some drivers of this burden. We analysed data from the Secure Anonymised Information Linkage Databank (linked), Eye Health Examination Wales Service (unlinked) and Common Ailments Scheme (unlinked) during 2017-2018 to quantify burden. We applied generalised linear modelling and logistic regression to understand drivers. ResultsOf 365,044 episodes of care during the study, GPs and A&E managed 46.2% (168,877) and 1.4% (5,122) respectively while optometrists and pharmacists managed 51.8% (116,868) and 0.6% (2,635). Older females and infants of both sexes were more likely to use GP prescribing services, while adolescent and middle-aged males were more likely to visit A&E. GP prescribing burden was driven partially by economic deprivation, access to local services, and overall community health. Season, day of the week, and time of day were predictors of burden for GP and A&E services. Conclusion & ImplicationsAcute eyecare continues to place considerable burden on primary care services in Wales, particularly in urban areas with greater deprivation. This is likely to increase with an ageing population. With ongoing pathway development to better utilise community care, there may be scope to change this trajectory.

Refugee child vision screening curriculum for multidisciplinary trainees

Background: Conflicts, natural disasters, and persecution have led to growing refugee populations worldwide. Vision impairment within these populations is a significant concern. Eye conditions in refugee children appear to peak during times of resettlement. Future medical and nursing professionals need to be trained to detect treatable conditions that could lead to permanent vision loss and significant morbidity if undiagnosed. While curricula regarding refugee health exist, no curriculum exists on identifying common eye conditions in refugee children and performing pediatric eye screening. Methods: We created and delivered a virtual, single-session curriculum on pediatric refugee eye conditions and screening to medical and nursing trainees. A needs assessment survey assessing trainees’ knowledge and confidence in detecting eye conditions in children and refugees informed curriculum design. Pre- and post-test assessments evaluated participants’ knowledge and confidence before and after the module. A two-sided signed-rank test was used to compare pre- and post-test scores. Results: Twenty-seven respondents completed the needs assessment survey, which revealed low levels of confidence in performing vision screening, especially in evaluating the eye surface. Fourteen participants completed the module and pre- and post-test surveys. Mean knowledge test score improved from 52% to 75% (P<0.001). Discussion: As the global refugee population grows, this study supports the value of incorporating a refugee child eye curriculum into trainee education to empower providers to detect and address refugee eye conditions.

Measuring utility values of eye conditions among children in India using the EQ-5D-Y instrument

BackgroundVision impairment and blindness are significant global public health challenges, particularly in low- and middle-income countries, where access to eye care services remains limited. India has significantly reduced the prevalence of Blindness and Vision Impairment (VI) over the last two decades. This was achieved with the help of greater investments towards blindness control programs. The use of utility values helps in conducting economic evaluations of various eye health programs and empirically justify investing in these programs. This study aimed to estimate utility values for various childhood eye conditions in central India using the EuroQol-Five-Dimension-Youth (EQ-5D-Y) instrument.MethodsThis is a before and after study with data collected at two time points for few participants and at only one time point for others. This study was undertaken at Shri Sadguru Netra Chikitsalaya (SNC) and included children representing central and north India. Participants were randomly sampled in the hospital. After comprehensive eye examination, participants completed the EuroQol-Five-Dimension-Youth (EQ-5D-Y) questionnaire along with EuroQol Visual Analogue Scale (EQ VAS) measurement to elicit their health state for their condition which was repeated after six months post-intervention to measure the change in utility value. We have used Indonesian value set to analyze the preference scores of each dimension of EQ-5D-Y.ResultsUtility values of 16 eye conditions were estimated at baseline and seven conditions were followed up for post-intervention utility value estimation. There is a statistically significant improvement in the utility values post-intervention amongst six conditions. Blindness and Pediatric cataract had the greatest change (0.23 and 0.2 respectively) in utility value whereas mild Vision Impairment (VI) showed the least change (0.02) in the utility value post-intervention. Blindness had the lowest baseline (0.62) and post-intervention (0.85) utility value.ConclusionThe utility values estimated in this study showed that generic measures such as EQ-5D-Y may be used to elicit health states for various eye conditions amongst children. These estimates are helpful in undertaking cost-utility analyses of eye health programs and interventions aimed at these eye conditions.

Clinical and Demographic Characteristics of Treatment Requiring Retinopathy of Prematurity in Big Premature Infants in Turkiye: Report No. 1 (BIG-ROP Study)

Plain Language SummaryRetinopathy of prematurity (ROP) is a serious eye condition that affects premature babies, sometimes leading to blindness. Babies born at more than 32 weeks of pregnancy or weighing over 1,500 g are generally considered less at risk. However, in low- and middle-income countries where neonatal intensive care is not optimal, these bigger and more mature babies can still develop severe ROP requiring treatment (TR-ROP). This study is the first of its kind to examine how having both an eye specialist (ophthalmologist) and a baby care specialist (neonatologist) in the same hospital affects the development of TR-ROP in different regions across Turkiye. The study found that bigger babies often show signs of ROP at their first eye exam and that the condition can worsen quickly. This aggressive form of ROP, similar to a severe type called A-ROP, progresses rapidly. The findings suggest that these bigger babies need to be screened earlier than 4 weeks after birth. The study recommends expanding ROP screening programs to include larger infants, especially in developing areas of Turkiye. These recommendations could also apply to other developing countries facing similar challenges.

Eye Deep-Net: a deep neural network-based multi-class retinal disease diagnostic

Ophthalmologists rely heavily on retinal pictures to diagnose a wide range of eye conditions. Numerous retinal disorders may lead to microvascular alterations in the retina, and a number of studies have been conducted on the early identification of medical pictures to enable prompt and appropriate treatment. In order to identify various eye illnesses using color fundus pictures, this study develops a non-invasive, automated deep learning system. A multiclass ocular illness A productive diagnostic approach was created using the Remind dataset. A variety of augmentation strategies were used to make the structure robust in real-time after multi-class fundus pictures were collected from a multi-label dataset. Low computational demand images were processed in accordance with the network. The fundamental convolutional neural network (CNN) extracts appropriate characteristics from the input color fundus image dataset, and then processed characteristics were employed to make predictive diagnoses. This multi-layer neural network, called Eye Deep-Net, has been developed for training and evaluating images for the recognition of various eye problems. The performance of the suggested model is determined to be much better than numerous baseline state-of-the-art models. The strength from the Eye Deep-Net is assessed using different statistical metrics. The suggested methodology's effectiveness in classifying and identifying diseases using digital fundus pictures is shown by a thorough comparison with the most modern techniques.

Overview of 37 Tear Substitutes in Europe Based on Various Physicochemical Parameters.

Dry eye disease (DED) is one of the most prevalent eye conditions worldwide, with artificial tears serving as a primary treatment option. Despite their wide availability on the European market, there is a lack of established classifications based on their physicochemical properties. The aim of our study was therefore (i) to develop an analytical method that measures the concentration and the molecular weight (MW) of the hyaluronic acid (HA) in commercialized products, and (ii) to propose an overview based on their various physicochemical parameters. The intrinsic viscosity and MW of the HA, as well as osmolarity, pH, rheological profile, and viscosity, were measured or determined. A specific method was developed to measure the average intrinsic viscosity and HA content using a liquid size-exclusion chromatography system. The MW was determined using the Mark-Houwink equation. Thirty-seven products commercialized in Europe were analyzed, with 21 of them containing HA. The HA MW was lowest (300kDa) for Thealose®, Thealoz Duo® Gel, and Hyabak®, and highest (1300kDa) for Vismed® Multi, Vismed® Gel, and Neovis® Gel. The pH values varied between 5.94 for Treovis® and 8.06 for Systane® Ultra. Osmolarity ranged between 148 mOsm/L and 325 mOsm/L for Neovis® and Treovis®, respectively. Viscosity was highly variable, ranging from 0.38 mPas·s for Hylolipid® to 337.47 mPas·s for Thealoz® Duo Gel. Finally, rheological profile analysis revealed different shear-thinning behaviors. While the perfect eye drop does not exist, a multitude of options are available to choose from. This study improves our understanding of the major tear substitutes available on the European market based on several physicochemical properties. A better understanding and awareness of these parameters is crucial in order to offer the best treatment for patients with DED.