RANGASWAMY ASOKAN, M.D.

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This study looked at eye measurements from a large group of people to find a reliable way to detect a condition called primary angle-closure disease (PACD), which can lead to blindness. It found that a specific measurement of the anterior chamber depth (ACD) of less than 2.815 mm is quite effective in identifying PACD, with a sensitivity of 63.59% and a specificity of 93.21%. At different rates of how common PACD is in the population, the accuracy of using ACD measurements to spot the disease varied between 81.15% and 92%, making these measurements useful for early detection in clinical settings. Who this helps: This research benefits eye doctors and patients at risk of angle-closure disease, especially in areas with limited resources.

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This study focused on developing a new, fast test to detect the groundnut bud necrosis virus (GBNV), which harms various crops. Researchers created a CRISPR/Cas13a-based method that can identify the virus in plant samples without needing complicated amplification steps, successfully detecting GBNV at levels as low as 0.01 ng. This is important because it allows for quick diagnosis in the field, helping farmers take action sooner to protect their crops from serious losses. Who this helps: This benefits farmers and agricultural workers by providing a speedy way to diagnose crop infections.

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This study focused on testing a new gene-editing technique called Prime editing in the fall armyworm, an important crop-damaging pest. The researchers successfully made targeted changes to a gene related to eye color, leading to noticeable alterations in the worms' pigmentation and confirming that the editing worked as intended. This progress matters because it could lead to more precise ways to manage pest populations and protect crops from damage. Who this helps: Farmers and agricultural researchers looking for effective pest control methods.

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This study focused on a protein called vitellogenin, which is important for egg development in the eggplant borer pest, Leucinodes orbonalis. Researchers found that this protein is mainly produced in female adults and during the pupal stage, and that modifying it with a technology called CRISPR/Cas9 lowered the hatchability of the eggs but did not change how many eggs were laid. This research is important because it opens up new ways to manage this pest, helping farmers protect their crops more effectively. Who this helps: Farmers dealing with the eggplant borer pest.

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This study explored why Indian farmers do or do not use protective eyewear while working. Researchers talked to 31 farmers and found that while most understood the dangers to their eyes from things like dust and chemicals, they were often reluctant to wear protective glasses due to issues like discomfort and concerns about appearance. Proper eyewear is important because it can prevent injuries, but without solutions to these barriers, farmers may continue to risk eye damage. Who this helps: This study benefits farmers by encouraging the use of protective eyewear to keep their eyes safe while working.

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This study looked at the Oriental fruit fly, a major pest that harms global fruit trade, and how altering a specific gene called Bdtektin1 can make male flies sterile. The researchers found that when they edited this gene using a technology called CRISPR, three out of four mutant male flies produced little to no viable offspring—showing hatching rates of 0% to 11.7%—compared to the 45.12% hatching rate of normal flies. This matters because it opens the door to new pest control methods that target fruit flies more effectively. Who this helps: This helps farmers and agricultural producers trying to manage fruit fly populations.

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This study examined the relationship between certain mitochondrial genes, which help manage fat metabolism, and two types of glaucoma—primary open angle glaucoma and angle closure glaucoma. The researchers found that 57% of the unique genetic variations in these patients were higher compared to healthy individuals, with specific gene mutations linked to changes in eye measurements related to glaucoma. These findings are important because they reveal potential genetic factors that could influence the risk of developing glaucoma, which may help in early diagnosis or treatment. Who this helps: This research benefits patients at risk of glaucoma and their doctors by providing insights into genetic risk factors.

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This study looked at how the quality of sleep among nursing officers in a hospital in Bhubaneswar is linked to their socioeconomic status. It found that 66.5% of the nurses were aged 25-30, and the majority were women and unmarried. Importantly, those working in lower-paying jobs and from low-income families reported worse sleep quality, as measured by a specific scoring system, with a clear link found between poor sleep and both their job type and family income. Who this helps: This information benefits nursing professionals who may need support for better sleep, as well as hospitals looking to improve staff well-being.

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This study looked at how blood flow in the eye is affected in patients suspected of having primary angle-closure (PACS) and those with primary angle-closure (PAC) but without a history of sudden attacks. Researchers measured blood flow and vessel density in 135 patients aged 40 to 80 and found no significant differences in blood flow among normal, PACS, and PAC eyes. However, PAC eyes showed worse visual function despite similar blood flow measurements, indicating potential damage to certain eye cells even without prior acute episodes. Who this helps: This information is useful for eye doctors and researchers who work with patients at risk for angle-closure glaucoma.

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This study looks at using a powerful gene-editing tool called CRISPR to manage pest insects like moths and butterflies, which are significant agricultural pests. Researchers found that by targeting specific genes that control sex and fertility, they can create insect populations with more males and many sterile insects. This approach could lead to more effective pest control without using harmful chemicals, improving agricultural productivity. Who this helps: This benefits farmers and agricultural producers.

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This study focused on finding the best reference genes for measuring gene expression in whiteflies that carry Begomovirus infections. Researchers analyzed five potential reference genes and determined that one specific gene was the most stable and reliable for accurate measurements. This is important because understanding how the virus affects the whiteflies can help develop better methods to control the viral spread. Who this helps: This helps researchers and agricultural scientists working to protect crops from Begomovirus.

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Researchers studied the fall armyworm, a harmful pest that damages essential crops, focusing on a specific protein (PBP4) involved in how male moths detect female mating scents. They found that PBP4 is crucial for this detection, as reducing its levels weakens the moths’ response to the sex pheromones, indicating it could be a target for pest control methods. This research is important because it opens up new, eco-friendly strategies to manage these pests, which resist many traditional methods. Who this helps: This helps farmers and agricultural professionals looking for effective ways to protect their crops from pests.

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This study looked at how specifically edited genes in the early embryos of the oriental fruit fly respond to a gene-editing tool called CRISPR/Cas9. Researchers found that 33 genes were turned up and 67 were turned down after using this tool, highlighting changes in genes linked to stress and development. This is important because it helps scientists understand how gene editing affects insect growth, which can influence agricultural pest management. Who this helps: Farmers and researchers working on pest control.

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This study focused on the spotted wing Drosophila, a major pest that damages soft fruits. Researchers used a technique called CRISPR to create fruit flies with different eye colors by making specific genetic changes. They discovered that certain strains still produced offspring and that some mutations didn’t affect fertility as previously thought, showing potential for better pest control methods. Who this helps: This benefits farmers and agricultural scientists looking to manage pest populations effectively.

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This study looked at how beta blockers, a type of medication often used to treat high blood pressure, affect blood flow in the eyes of people with normal vision, those suspected of having glaucoma, and those already diagnosed with it. Researchers found that patients with high blood pressure who took standard beta blockers had lower blood flow to the eyes compared to those who didn’t take beta blockers, especially when looking at specific measurements: blood flow decreased by about 1.4 to 1.5 percentage points and the density of blood vessels in the eye dropped by about 0.9 to 1.2 units. It's important because it shows that not all beta blockers affect eye health the same way, and those that improve blood vessel dilation do not harm blood flow as much. Who this helps: This information benefits patients with glaucoma and doctors prescribing blood pressure medications.

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This study looked at how well point-of-care ultrasound (POCUS) can assess the airway in patients needing intubation in the emergency department. Researchers found that certain ultrasound measurements—like the pre-epiglottis to epiglottic vocal cord ratio—can accurately predict difficult intubation, with 83% of difficult cases correctly identified and 94% of easier cases correctly identified. This matters because it offers a reliable, non-invasive way for doctors to evaluate patients needing intubation, especially when traditional assessments are challenging in emergencies. Who this helps: This helps emergency doctors and patients in urgent situations.

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This study looked at different ways to measure the severity of glaucoma in patients, focusing on how Indian eye care practitioners use and prefer these methods. Among 400 glaucoma reports analyzed, the Hodapp Anderson Parrish (HAP) system was favored by 97% of eye care providers for its ease of use, while substantial agreement was found between most systems, particularly between HAP and another system called eGSS. The findings highlight the need for a common system for assessing glaucoma to improve consistency in patient care. Who this helps: Patients and eye care practitioners.

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This study focused on a pest called the fall armyworm, which attacks crops like maize and has caused significant economic damage since it spread outside its native regions. Researchers used a technique called CRISPR/Cas9 to modify a specific gene (tssk2) in male fall armyworms, resulting in five males with mutations. These mutations were then tested for their impact on the ability of their offspring to hatch, aiming to develop a new method for controlling this pest. Who this helps: This research benefits farmers struggling with fall armyworm infestations.

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This research examined a new method for editing genes in the fall armyworm, a harmful pest that can be difficult to control. The scientists used a system called Cas12a to modify a gene that affects eye color in the worms, resulting in five distinct genetic changes among the edited samples. These findings are important because they open up new possibilities for controlling this pest, which affects agriculture significantly. Who this helps: This helps farmers and agricultural scientists.

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In this study, researchers looked at how eye movements differ between people with glaucoma and those without while they searched for specific targets in real-world images. They found that glaucoma patients tended to focus on specific areas, using a focal search pattern 56% of the time, compared to 26% for healthy individuals. This shift in how they search for visual information suggests that glaucoma patients develop strategies to cope with their vision loss. Who this helps: This research benefits glaucoma patients and their doctors by helping them understand how vision impairment affects daily activities.

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This study looked at how working from home during the COVID-19 lockdown affected people's eyes and bodies. Researchers surveyed over 1,300 participants and found that 94.5% reported eye problems from using screens, and 87.6% experienced symptoms related to muscle and joint pain. Notably, 43.1% of those with eye issues and 45% with musculoskeletal symptoms said these problems only appeared during the lockdown, linked to factors like excessive screen time and poor ergonomic setups. Who this helps: This research helps patients, especially those working remotely and experiencing health issues related to screen use.

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This study looked at how exposure to harmful UV rays from the sun over a lifetime can affect the risk of developing a condition called pseudoexfoliation syndrome (XFS), which impacts the eyes. Researchers examined 404 people, finding that those with higher UV exposure, especially outdoor workers, were more likely to have XFS—specifically, for every unit increase in UV exposure, the chance of developing XFS increased by 14%. On the positive side, wearing glasses and having higher levels of ascorbic acid in the eye fluid seemed to lower the risk of XFS. Who this helps: This research benefits patients at risk of eye conditions, particularly those who work outdoors.

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This study looked at how certain proteins, specifically PD-1 and PD-L1, influence immune cell activity in the ovaries and fallopian tubes, which could affect both fertility and tumor development. The researchers found that these proteins are present in high amounts in the human reproductive tissues and could impact immune response during key reproductive processes like ovulation. This discovery is significant because it highlights a mechanism by which the body might protect eggs and embryos from being attacked by the immune system. Who this helps: This research benefits patients undergoing fertility treatments and may also inform approaches for treating reproductive organ tumors.

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Researchers studied the South American tomato moth, a major pest of tomatoes in India, to understand how it became resistant to commonly used insecticides. They found that resistance levels increased significantly in different populations, with specific gene changes linked to this resistance. Farmers face increased crop damage due to the moth’s ability to withstand chemical treatments, making it crucial to use insecticides more strategically to protect their crops. Who this helps: This benefits farmers and agricultural workers dealing with tomato crop loss.

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Researchers studied a strain of the tomato spotted wilt virus (TSWV) that affects tomato plants in southern India. They confirmed its identity and examined its genetic make-up, finding that it is similar to strains found in Spain and Hungary, which indicates it may spread more widely. This research highlights the urgent need for management strategies to protect tomato crops in India from this virus, which can cause significant damage to plants. Who this helps: This helps farmers and agricultural specialists working to protect tomato crops.

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This study looked at the visual performance of two types of multifocal contact lenses compared to modified monovision lenses in people new to presbyopia, which is a common age-related vision change. Researchers tested the vision of 19 participants using two different brands of lenses and found that modified monovision lenses provided better high-contrast vision than multifocal lenses, while multifocal lenses were better for depth perception, or stereopsis. This information is important because it helps eye care professionals choose the best contact lenses for patients experiencing presbyopia. Who this helps: Patients dealing with presbyopia.

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This study focused on finding a faster way to identify genetic changes in the oriental fruit fly, a pest that harms global fruit trade, by using their shed pupal cases. Researchers found that they could accurately determine genetic edits from the pupal cases of five fruit flies, confirming that the results matched those from the adult flies. This method allows scientists to quickly identify which flies have been genetically edited, reducing the time needed to manage pest populations effectively and without using harmful chemicals. Who this helps: This benefits agricultural scientists and pest control programs aiming to manage invasive species.

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This study focused on improving the detection of brain tumors using advanced computer algorithms that analyze MRI and CT scan images. The researchers developed a new method called Ideal Shallow Neural Network with Artificial Jellyfish Optimization, which achieved a remarkable accuracy of 95.14%, significantly higher than previous models, such as Convolutional Neural Networks at 85.41%. This improved accuracy and efficiency (processing images in about 65 seconds) matter because they can lead to faster and more reliable diagnoses for patients with brain tumors. Who this helps: This helps patients with brain tumors and the doctors treating them.

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This study looked at how problems with vision, both in one eye and both eyes, affected the quality of life for people with glaucoma in India. The researchers found that those with severe vision loss reported a significantly lower quality of life, with scores indicating poorer vision-related quality of life compared to those with mild vision loss. Specifically, individuals whose vision loss was worse had GQL-15 scores that were notably low, especially if it affected the lower central part of their vision. Who this helps: Patients with glaucoma and their doctors can better understand how vision loss affects quality of life and tailor treatments accordingly.

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This study investigated how genetic factors and exposure to ultraviolet (UV) light may contribute to the development of Pseudoexfoliation Syndrome (XFS) in Indian patients. The researchers looked at 309 individuals, including 90 with XFS and found specific genetic markers, known as SNPs, where some were linked to a higher risk for XFS, while the haplotype GAGC was associated with a lower risk (with a significance level indicating a strong finding). Understanding these genetic associations helps identify individuals at higher risk for XFS, which is important for early detection and prevention strategies. Who this helps: This helps patients at risk of Pseudoexfoliation Syndrome and their doctors.

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This study investigated a pest called the Fall armyworm, which damages important crops. Researchers used a technique called CRISPR to edit a key gene responsible for the moth's mating signals. They found that female moths with this edited gene did not produce viable offspring when mated with wild males, indicating that altering this gene significantly disrupts their ability to mate. Who this helps: This research benefits farmers and agricultural scientists by providing a potential new method for managing pest populations.

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This study looked at how using a quick ultrasound of the stomach can help predict if patients will accidentally inhale stomach contents during urgent intubation in the emergency department. The researchers found that patients with larger stomach volumes were more likely to aspirate, with a median volume of 146.37 mL in those who did. They identified specific measurements from the ultrasound that can help doctors assess the risk of aspiration accurately—specifically, a cross-sectional area of 9.27 cm² and a stomach volume over 111.594 mL. Who this helps: This benefits emergency department physicians and their patients by improving safety during intubation.

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This study looks at a rare case of a 64-year-old man who experienced an allergic reaction (anaphylaxis) after getting a contrast dye called iohexol and later suffered a stroke. While allergic reactions to contrast agents are uncommon, the study highlights that in this case, severe reactions can lead to serious issues like an ischemic stroke, which occurs when blood flow to the brain is blocked. Understanding these rare but serious complications is important for improving patient safety during medical procedures. Who this helps: This helps patients and doctors by raising awareness of the risks associated with contrast dyes.

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Researchers studied how altering a specific gene in female Fall armyworms affects their ability to mate. They found that when this gene was edited using a gene-editing tool called CRISPR/Cas9, the female worms were less attractive to males and could not produce offspring when mating with them. This means that targeting this gene could help develop new, eco-friendly ways to control this pest, which significantly damages corn crops. Who this helps: This helps farmers by providing new methods to protect their crops from pests.

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This study looked at a 19-year-old man who had a rare type of neck swelling and ringing in his ears (tinnitus) after treatment for a throat infection. Doctors found that he had a large aneurysm in a major artery in his neck, which was causing his symptoms, and they successfully repaired it. This is important because it shows that careful medical examination can uncover unusual causes of tinnitus that may require urgent treatment. Who this helps: This helps young patients experiencing unexplained ear ringing and neck problems.

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This study looked at the SPEED score, a tool for predicting the likelihood of death within 28 days for patients with sepsis who come to the emergency department. Among 127 patients, the study found that 50.4% died within 28 days. The SPEED score was effective at predicting mortality, having a performance rate of 0.899, which is comparable to other scoring systems used, showing it is a useful tool for doctors to quickly assess risk. Who this helps: This helps doctors in the emergency department effectively evaluate and manage patients with sepsis.

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This study looked at how ruptured aneurysms in the heart can cause severe chest pain, which is often mistaken for other heart issues in the emergency department. The researchers found that while chest pain is common, only a small number of cases are due to serious problems like these aneurysms, which can be overlooked if doctors rely too much on standard assessment tools. This matters because recognizing these rare but dangerous conditions quickly can lead to better outcomes for patients who need urgent treatment. Who this helps: This helps patients experiencing severe chest pain and doctors working in emergency departments.

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This study looked at how much optometrists and optometry students know about glaucoma, their attitudes toward learning about it, and how they practice related techniques. It involved 558 participants and found that those with more clinical experience had better knowledge—57% of participants were practicing optometrists, while 43% were students. Specifically, optometrists who regularly conducted glaucoma assessments scored higher on knowledge tests, and all participants felt positively about improving their skills through training. Who this helps: This helps optometrists and ultimately benefits patients by improving the quality of glaucoma care.

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This study looked at how measuring the collapsibility of two major veins—the internal jugular vein (IJV) and the inferior vena cava (IVC)—using ultrasound can help assess fluid levels in patients experiencing shock in the emergency department. Researchers found a strong link between the measurements of these veins and the central venous pressure (CVP), which is a key indicator of blood volume. Specifically, the IVC collapsibility index showed the highest correlation with CVP at -0.541, indicating it could be very useful in determining how much fluid a patient should receive to stabilize them. Who this helps: This benefits emergency department doctors treating patients in shock.

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This study looked at the fall armyworm, a significant pest that harms corn crops. Researchers analyzed the DNA of 177 worms from around the world and found that the invasive populations mainly come from a specific corn-based strain. They also discovered that these worms have evolved traits that help them survive better in new environments. Who this helps: This research benefits farmers and agricultural specialists who fight against crop pests.

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This study looked at specific genes in a pest called Leucinodes orbonalis that are linked to resistance against insecticides. Researchers found 72 genes related to this resistance, with two genes, CYP324F1 and CYP306A1, showing particularly high activity, being expressed more than 10 times compared to normal pests. This information is important as it helps develop better strategies to manage and combat this pest, which can damage crops. Who this helps: This research benefits farmers and agricultural professionals who want to protect their crops from pest damage.

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This study reports a rare case of a specific type of tumor called isolated extrauterine endometrial stromal sarcoma (EUESS) found in a 56-year-old woman. After having surgeries for breast and uterine cancer, she experienced kidney pain and was ultimately diagnosed with a tumor growing inside her ureter, even though it had no connection to her previous endometrial issues. The treatment involved removing the affected kidney and ureter, alongside hormonal therapy, emphasizing the importance of early diagnosis and a team approach to improve patient outcomes. Who this helps: This helps patients with rare tumors and their doctors in understanding better diagnosis and treatment options.

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This study looked at whether using the diabetes medication metformin affects the likelihood of developing a type of eye disease called primary open-angle glaucoma (POAG) over six years. Out of 4,302 people included in the study, 128 (3%) developed POAG, with a slight increase in incidence among those taking metformin (5.6%) compared to those who were not (3.6%). However, the difference was not significant, which means that metformin does not seem to affect the development of glaucoma in diabetic patients. Who this helps: This helps diabetics and their doctors understand that metformin does not increase the risk of glaucoma.

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This study looked at how to control the South American pinworm, a major pest threatening tomato farming worldwide, by using a method called RNA interference (RNAi) on tomato leaves. Researchers applied specific RNA molecules that targeted and disrupted two important genes in the pinworm. They found that after the larvae ate the treated leaves, there was a significant increase in their mortality, with effective treatments showing a mortality rate of less than 0.01, alongside less leaf damage and reduced feeding by the pests. Who this helps: This helps farmers and agricultural producers by providing a new way to protect their tomato crops from pests.

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This study looked at different types of leafhoppers, which are pests that can spread a plant disease called aster yellow, affecting flowers like China aster, marigold, and chrysanthemum. Researchers identified eight different leafhopper species using a genetic marker technique, and their findings confirmed these species through traditional identification methods. This is important because understanding which leafhoppers carry aster yellow can help protect crops and improve agricultural practices. Who this helps: This helps farmers, gardeners, and agricultural scientists.

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This study followed an 18-year-old girl who had surgery to improve her vision after developing a condition called keratoconus. After a week of recovering from a blunt eye injury, her eye graft became partially separated but was successfully reattached. In the end, her vision improved to 20/40 a year later, showing that the surgery worked well and her eye remains stable. Who this helps: This helps patients with keratoconus who may need eye surgery.

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This study examined how the trade and transport of agricultural goods in Nepal contribute to the spread of a harmful pest affecting tomatoes. Researchers found that regional trade significantly facilitates the pest's spread, with potential economic losses estimated between $17 million to $25 million. Understanding this flow of goods is crucial for managing pest invasions and protecting the economy. Who this helps: This helps farmers, policymakers, and agricultural economists.

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This study looked at how inflammation affects bile acid transport in mice with biliary atresia (BA), a serious liver condition in infants. The researchers found that inflammatory signals led to higher levels of certain microRNAs that hinder the production of proteins responsible for bile acid transport, resulting in less bile acid being processed. Specifically, they found that the levels of critical transport proteins decreased by up to 70% in inflamed mice. This is important because when bile acids aren't effectively moved out of the liver, it can lead to liver damage. Who this helps: This helps infants with biliary atresia and the doctors treating them.

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This study examined how certain genes in the shoot and fruit borer pest contribute to its resistance against common insecticides used on eggplants. The researchers found that these pests showed significant resistance, with some populations resistant to insecticides like fenvalerate by up to 160 times more than a susceptible lab strain. Understanding these genetic changes can help in creating better strategies to manage and control this pest, which is crucial for improving eggplant production. Who this helps: This research benefits farmers and agricultural scientists working to combat pest issues in crops.