Original Article

Comparative analysis of intraocular pressure measurements: a study using noncontact tonometer, goldmann applanation tonometer, and Corvis ST in healthy individuals and laucoma patients

Comparative analysis of intraocular pressure measurements: a study using noncontact tonometer, goldmann applanation tonometer, and Corvis ST in healthy individuals and laucoma patients

:237-246
 
Objective: Accurate intraocular pressure (IOP) measurement is a cornerstone of glaucoma diagnosis and management. While Goldmann applanation tonometry (GAT) remains the accepted gold standard, technological advancements have introduced alternative methods such as noncontact tonometry (NCT) and the dynamic Scheimpflug-based Corvis ST (CST). This study aims to conduct a rigorous comparative analysis of IOP measurements obtained by NCT, GAT, and CST across a wide spectrum of intraocular pressures. The primary objectives were to evaluate the performance of these devices in both healthy and glaucomatous eyes, assess their intra- and interobserver variability, and determine their level of agreement with the established reference. Methods: In this prospective, comparative study, a total of 212 eyes from 212 subjects were enrolled, comprising 137 eyes of patients with glaucoma and 75 eyes of healthy individuals. All participants underwent IOP measurement using the three devices in a randomized order to minimize bias. Based on the initial GAT readings, eyes were systematically classified into one of four predefined IOP levels: Level A (low, < 10 mmHg), Level B (normal range, 10 – 21 mmHg), Level C (moderately elevated, > 21 to 40 mmHg), and Level D (severely elevated, > 40 mmHg). A mixed-model analysis of variance (ANOVA) was employed to statistically analyze the differences in IOP measurements among the three tonometers at each distinct pressure level. The agreement between each pair of devices (CST vs. GAT, CST vs. NCT, and NCT vs. GAT) was meticulously assessed using Bland-Altman plots, which provide metrics for bias (mean difference) and the 95% limits of agreement (LoA). Results: CST and GAT exhibited better intra- and interobserver variability compared to NCT.  Significant differences in IOP measurements were observed among CST, NCT, and GAT at levels A and D (P<0.001, P=0.030). Bland-Altman analysis revealed biases between CST and GAT, CST and NCT, and NCT and GAT at different levels (level A: -0.61, 0.94, and -1.55 mmHg; level B: 0.16, -0.7, and 0.8; level C: 0.5, 0.5, and -0.1; level D: 0.83, -3.4, and 4.2). Notably, NCT tended to overestimate IOP more at higher levels (level D) and underestimate at lower levels (level A) compared to CST. CST demonstrated better agreement with GAT than NCT did. Conclusions: This study confirms that the Corvis ST (CST) shows superior agreement with the Goldmann applanation tonometer than noncontact tonometry, particularly at low and high IOP ranges. It also exhibits greater measurement consistency. While NCT remains a useful screening tool, its significant over- and underestimation at pressure extremes is a critical limitation. The findings strongly suggest that CST may serve as a more suitable and reliable alternative to NCT for measuring IOP across a broad clinical range. However, the results underscore that these three methods are not directly interchangeable. Clinicians must therefore exercise careful interpretation of IOP values, taking into account the specific tonometer used and the patient's probable pressure level for accurate diagnosis and management of glaucoma.
Objective: Accurate intraocular pressure (IOP) measurement is a cornerstone of glaucoma diagnosis and management. While Goldmann applanation tonometry (GAT) remains the accepted gold standard, technological advancements have introduced alternative methods such as noncontact tonometry (NCT) and the dynamic Scheimpflug-based Corvis ST (CST). This study aims to conduct a rigorous comparative analysis of IOP measurements obtained by NCT, GAT, and CST across a wide spectrum of intraocular pressures. The primary objectives were to evaluate the performance of these devices in both healthy and glaucomatous eyes, assess their intra- and interobserver variability, and determine their level of agreement with the established reference. Methods: In this prospective, comparative study, a total of 212 eyes from 212 subjects were enrolled, comprising 137 eyes of patients with glaucoma and 75 eyes of healthy individuals. All participants underwent IOP measurement using the three devices in a randomized order to minimize bias. Based on the initial GAT readings, eyes were systematically classified into one of four predefined IOP levels: Level A (low, < 10 mmHg), Level B (normal range, 10 – 21 mmHg), Level C (moderately elevated, > 21 to 40 mmHg), and Level D (severely elevated, > 40 mmHg). A mixed-model analysis of variance (ANOVA) was employed to statistically analyze the differences in IOP measurements among the three tonometers at each distinct pressure level. The agreement between each pair of devices (CST vs. GAT, CST vs. NCT, and NCT vs. GAT) was meticulously assessed using Bland-Altman plots, which provide metrics for bias (mean difference) and the 95% limits of agreement (LoA). Results: CST and GAT exhibited better intra- and interobserver variability compared to NCT.  Significant differences in IOP measurements were observed among CST, NCT, and GAT at levels A and D (P<0.001, P=0.030). Bland-Altman analysis revealed biases between CST and GAT, CST and NCT, and NCT and GAT at different levels (level A: -0.61, 0.94, and -1.55 mmHg; level B: 0.16, -0.7, and 0.8; level C: 0.5, 0.5, and -0.1; level D: 0.83, -3.4, and 4.2). Notably, NCT tended to overestimate IOP more at higher levels (level D) and underestimate at lower levels (level A) compared to CST. CST demonstrated better agreement with GAT than NCT did. Conclusions:This study confirms that the Corvis ST (CST) shows superior agreement with the Goldmann applanation tonometer than noncontact tonometry, particularly at low and high IOP ranges. It also exhibits greater measurement consistency. While NCT remains a useful screening tool, its significant over- and underestimation at pressure extremes is a critical limitation. The findings strongly suggest that CST may serve as a more suitable and reliable alternative to NCT for measuring IOP across a broad clinical range. However, the results underscore that these three methods are not directly interchangeable. Clinicians must therefore exercise careful interpretation of IOP values, taking into account the specific tonometer used and the patient's probable pressure level for accurate diagnosis and management of glaucoma.
Global Eye Health and Epidemiology Selection

Large language models in ophthalmology: a bibliometric analysis

Large language models in ophthalmology: a bibliometric analysis

:222-237
 
Backgrounds: With the rapid development of artificial intelligence (AI), large language models (LLMs) have emerged as a potent tool for invigorating ophthalmology across clinical, educational, and research fields. Their accuracy and reliability have undergone tested. This bibliometric analysis aims to provide an overview of research on LLMs in ophthalmology from both thematic and geographical perspectives. Methods: All existing and highly cited LLM-related ophthalmology research papers published in English up to 24th April 2025 were sourced from Scopus, PubMed, and Web of Science. The characteristics of these publications, including publication output, authors, journals, countries, institutions, citations, and research domains, were analyzed using Biblioshiny and VOSviewer software. Results: A total of 277 articles from 1,459 authors and 89 journals were included in this study. Although relevant publications began to appear in 2019, there was a significant increase starting from 2023. He M and Shi D are the most prolific authors, while Investigative Ophthalmology & Visual Science stands out as the most prominent journal. Most of the top-publishing countries are high-income economies, with the USA taking the lead, and the University of California is the leading institution. VOSviewer identified 5 clusters in the keyword co-occurrence analysis, indicating that current research focuses on the clinical applications of LLMs, particularly in diagnosis and patient education. Conclusions: While LLMs have demonstrated effectiveness in retaining knowledge, their accuracy in image-based diagnosis remains limited. Therefore, future research should investigate fine-tuning strategies and domain-specific adaptations to close this gap. Although research on the applications of LLMs in ophthalmology is still in its early stages, it holds significant potential for advancing the field.
Backgrounds: With the rapid development of artificial intelligence (AI), large language models (LLMs) have emerged as a potent tool for invigorating ophthalmology across clinical, educational, and research fields. Their accuracy and reliability have undergone tested. This bibliometric analysis aims to provide an overview of research on LLMs in ophthalmology from both thematic and geographical perspectives. Methods: All existing and highly cited LLM-related ophthalmology research papers published in English up to 24th April 2025 were sourced from Scopus, PubMed, and Web of Science. The characteristics of these publications, including publication output, authors, journals, countries, institutions, citations, and research domains, were analyzed using Biblioshiny and VOSviewer software. Results: A total of 277 articles from 1,459 authors and 89 journals were included in this study. Although relevant publications began to appear in 2019, there was a significant increase starting from 2023. He M and Shi D are the most prolific authors, while Investigative Ophthalmology & Visual Science stands out as the most prominent journal. Most of the top-publishing countries are high-income economies, with the USA taking the lead, and the University of California is the leading institution. VOSviewer identified 5 clusters in the keyword co-occurrence analysis, indicating that current research focuses on the clinical applications of LLMs, particularly in diagnosis and patient education. Conclusions: While LLMs have demonstrated effectiveness in retaining knowledge, their accuracy in image-based diagnosis remains limited. Therefore, future research should investigate fine-tuning strategies and domain-specific adaptations to close this gap. Although research on the applications of LLMs in ophthalmology is still in its early stages, it holds significant potential for advancing the field.
Global Eye Health and Epidemiology Selection

Global pattern, trend, and cross-country inequality of blindness and vision impairment: an analysis of the Global Burden of Disease Study 2021

Global pattern, trend, and cross-country inequality of blindness and vision impairment: an analysis of the Global Burden of Disease Study 2021

:211-221
 
Background: Blindness and vision impairment (BVI) continue to pose significant global public health challenges, disproportionately impacting vulnerable populations and further widening socioeconomic disparities. This study conducts a comprehensive evaluation of the global burden of BVI and the socioeconomic inequalities in its distribution from 1990 to 2021, aiming to provide insights for targeted intervention strategies. Methods: Using data from Global Burden of Disease 2021, this study performed a multiscale analysis of BVI burden, examining patterns at the global, regional and national levels. We quantified the disease burden using disability-adjusted life years DALY and prevalence rates. Temporal trends were analyzed by calculating estimated annual percentage changes (EAPC). Stratified assessments were carried out by sex and age group across 21 regions and 204 countries. The study also included comparative analyses of six major eye conditions and evaluated their associations with socio-demographic index (SDI). Results: Globally, the age-standardized prevalence of BVI increased from 12,453.52 per million (95% UI: 10,287.58-15,226.09) in 1990 to 15,784.33 per million (12,761.44-19,502.32) in 2021, with an EAPC of 1.09% (95% UI: 0.97-1.20). During this period, global DALYs attributable to BVI increased by 37.7%. Disease trends exhibited significant divergence, with near vision loss showing the steepest increase (EAPC: 1.47%), while the prevalence of glaucoma declined (EAPC: -0.73%). Geographic disparities were pronounced, with substantial improvements observed in Equatorial Guinea (EAPC: -1.75) and worsening burdens in Benin (+0.54). Disease distribution demonstrated strong regional clustering, with near vision loss being predominant in Sub-Saharan Africa (64.47%) and East Asia (50.97%), while cataract was the most common condition in Oceania (33.86%). Females consistently bore a higher burden, particularly in South Asia (646.3 vs 563.2 DALYs). Moreover, we identified a strong inverse correlation between SDI and BVI burden (ρ=-0.772 for DALYs). Conclusions: This study highlights the severe global burden of BVI and the significant cross-country inequality, particularly in low- and middle-income countries. It emphasizes the urgent need for targeted interventions and the integration of eye care into universal health policies to promote global health equity in the post-pandemic era.
Background: Blindness and vision impairment (BVI) continue to pose significant global public health challenges, disproportionately impacting vulnerable populations and further widening socioeconomic disparities. This study conducts a comprehensive evaluation of the global burden of BVI and the socioeconomic inequalities in its distribution from 1990 to 2021, aiming to provide insights for targeted intervention strategies. Methods: Using data from Global Burden of Disease 2021, this study performed a multiscale analysis of BVI burden, examining patterns at the global, regional and national levels. We quantified the disease burden using disability-adjusted life years DALY and prevalence rates. Temporal trends were analyzed by calculating estimated annual percentage changes (EAPC). Stratified assessments were carried out by sex and age group across 21 regions and 204 countries. The study also included comparative analyses of six major eye conditions and evaluated their associations with socio-demographic index (SDI). Results: Globally, the age-standardized prevalence of BVI increased from 12,453.52 per million (95% UI: 10,287.58-15,226.09) in 1990 to 15,784.33 per million (12,761.44-19,502.32) in 2021, with an EAPC of 1.09% (95% UI: 0.97-1.20). During this period, global DALYs attributable to BVI increased by 37.7%. Disease trends exhibited significant divergence, with near vision loss showing the steepest increase (EAPC: 1.47%), while the prevalence of glaucoma declined (EAPC: -0.73%). Geographic disparities were pronounced, with substantial improvements observed in Equatorial Guinea (EAPC: -1.75) and worsening burdens in Benin (+0.54). Disease distribution demonstrated strong regional clustering, with near vision loss being predominant in Sub-Saharan Africa (64.47%) and East Asia (50.97%), while cataract was the most common condition in Oceania (33.86%). Females consistently bore a higher burden, particularly in South Asia (646.3 vs 563.2 DALYs). Moreover, we identified a strong inverse correlation between SDI and BVI burden (ρ=-0.772 for DALYs). Conclusions: This study highlights the severe global burden of BVI and the significant cross-country inequality, particularly in low- and middle-income countries. It emphasizes the urgent need for targeted interventions and the integration of eye care into universal health policies to promote global health equity in the post-pandemic era.
Original Article

Near visual acuity of high myopes after cataract surgery: a real-world analysis

Near visual acuity of high myopes after cataract surgery: a real-world analysis

:-
 
Aims: To assess the real-world distribution of uncorrected near visual acuity (UCNVA) in patients with highly myopic cataract ,as well as the associated refraction outcomes after cataract surgery. Methods: We conducted a cross-sectional study that included patients who had an axial length (AL) ≥26 mm in at least one eye and had undergone phacoemulsification with monofocal intraocular lens implantation. Three months or later after surgery, UCNVA was measured at a distance of 40 cm using a LogMAR ETDRS near visual acuity tumbling E chart. Other examinations carried out included non-cycloplegic autorefraction and measurement of best-corrected distance visual acuity (BCDVA). Multiple logistic regression was performed to identify the risk factors for near visual impairment (UCNVA < 20/40). Results: A total of 664 patients (664 eyes) were included in the study. The mean AL was 29.05±2.31 mm, and the postoperative spherical equivalent was -2.51±1.12D. Among these eyes, 319 eyes (48.04%) had a UCNVA of ≥ 20/40 and 518 eyes (78.01%) had a BCDVA ≥ 20/40. The risk factors for a UCNVA of less than 20/40 included postoperative astigmatism greater than 1D (-2 to -1D, odds ratio [OR]: 2.00, 95% confidence interval [CI]: 1.24 to 3.22; < -2D, OR: 4.27, 95% CI: 1.88 to 9.66), a postoperative spherical equivalent outside the range of -3.5 to -1.5D (OR: 4.17 to 19.73), and a BCDVA less than 20/40 (OR: 5.44, 95% CI: 3.14 to 9.42). Conclusions: To achieve an optimal UCNVA in patients with highly myopic cataract, it is recommended to set the target refraction between -3.5 and -1.5 D and to keep the postoperative residual astigmatism below 1D.
Aims: To assess the real-world distribution of uncorrected near visual acuity (UCNVA) in patients with highly myopic cataract ,as well as the associated refraction outcomes after cataract surgery. Methods: We conducted a cross-sectional study that included patients who had an axial length (AL) ≥26 mm in at least one eye and had undergone phacoemulsification with monofocal intraocular lens implantation. Three months or later after surgery, UCNVA was measured at a distance of 40 cm using a LogMAR ETDRS near visual acuity tumbling E chart. Other examinations carried out included non-cycloplegic autorefraction and measurement of best-corrected distance visual acuity (BCDVA). Multiple logistic regression was performed to identify the risk factors for near visual impairment (UCNVA < 20/40). Results: A total of 664 patients (664 eyes) were included in the study. The mean AL was 29.05±2.31 mm, and the postoperative spherical equivalent was -2.51±1.12D. Among these eyes, 319 eyes (48.04%) had a UCNVA of ≥ 20/40 and 518 eyes (78.01%) had a BCDVA ≥ 20/40. The risk factors for a UCNVA of less than 20/40 included postoperative astigmatism greater than 1D (-2 to -1D, odds ratio [OR]: 2.00, 95% confidence interval [CI]: 1.24 to 3.22; < -2D, OR: 4.27, 95% CI: 1.88 to 9.66), a postoperative spherical equivalent outside the range of -3.5 to -1.5D (OR: 4.17 to 19.73), and a BCDVA less than 20/40 (OR: 5.44, 95% CI: 3.14 to 9.42). Conclusions: To achieve an optimal UCNVA in patients with highly myopic cataract, it is recommended to set the target refraction between -3.5 and -1.5 D and to keep the postoperative residual astigmatism below 1D.
Original Article
Review Article

Advances in understanding conjunctival goblet cell traits and regenerative processes

Advances in understanding conjunctival goblet cell traits and regenerative processes

:85-96
 
Conjunctival goblet cells are of great significance to the ocular surface. By secreting mucins—particularly MUC5AC—they play a pivotal role in stabilizing the tear film, safeguarding the cornea from environmental insults, and preserving overall ocular homeostasis. Over the past decade, remarkable progress has been made in understanding the distinctive biological characteristics and regenerative potential of these specialized cells, opening novel avenues for treating various ocular surface disorders, ranging from dry eye syndrome and allergic conjunctivitis to more severe conditions such as Stevens-Johnson syndrome. This review comprehensively examines the morphology, function, and regulation of conjunctival goblet cells. Advanced imaging modalities, such as transmission electron microscopy, have provided in-depth insights into their ultrastructure. Densely packed mucin granules and a specialized secretory apparatus have been uncovered, highlighting the cells’ proficiency in producing and releasing MUC5AC. These structural characterizations have significantly enhanced our understanding of how goblet cells contribute to maintaining a stable and protective mucosal barrier, which is crucial for ocular surface integrity. The review further delves into the intricate signaling networks governing the differentiation and regeneration of these cells. Key pathways, including Notch, Wnt/β-catenin, and TGF-β, have emerged as essential regulators of cell fate decisions, ensuring that goblet cells maintain their specialized functions. Critical transcription factors, such as Klf4, Klf5, and SPDEF, have been identified as indispensable for driving the differentiation process and sustaining the mature phenotype of goblet cells. Additionally, the modulatory effects of inflammatory mediators—such as IL-6, IL-13, and TNF-α—and growth factors, such as EGF and FGF, are explored. These molecular insights offer a robust framework for understanding the pathophysiological mechanisms underlying ocular surface diseases, wherein the dysregulation of these processes often results in diminished goblet cell numbers and impaired tear film stability. Innovative methodological approaches have provided a strong impetus to this field. The development of three-dimensional (3D) in vitro culture systems that replicate the native conjunctival microenvironment has enabled more physiologically relevant investigations of goblet cell biology. Moreover, the integration of stem cell technologies—including the use of induced pluripotent stem cells (iPSCs) and bone marrow-derived mesenchymal stem cells (BM-MSCs)—has made it possible to generate goblet cell-like epithelia, thereby presenting promising strategies for tissue engineering and regenerative therapies. The application of artificial intelligence in optimizing drug screening and biomaterial scaffold design represents an exciting frontier that may accelerate the translation of these findings into effective clinical interventions. In conclusion, this review underscores the central role of conjunctival goblet cells in preserving ocular surface health and illuminates the transformative potential of emerging regenerative approaches. Continued research focused on deciphering the intricate molecular mechanisms governing goblet cell function and regeneration is essential for developing innovative, targeted therapies that can significantly improve the management of ocular surface diseases and enhance patient quality of life.
Conjunctival goblet cells are of great significance to the ocular surface. By secreting mucins—particularly MUC5AC—they play a pivotal role in stabilizing the tear film, safeguarding the cornea from environmental insults, and preserving overall ocular homeostasis. Over the past decade, remarkable progress has been made in understanding the distinctive biological characteristics and regenerative potential of these specialized cells, opening novel avenues for treating various ocular surface disorders, ranging from dry eye syndrome and allergic conjunctivitis to more severe conditions such as Stevens-Johnson syndrome. This review comprehensively examines the morphology, function, and regulation of conjunctival goblet cells. Advanced imaging modalities, such as transmission electron microscopy, have provided in-depth insights into their ultrastructure. Densely packed mucin granules and a specialized secretory apparatus have been uncovered, highlighting the cells’ proficiency in producing and releasing MUC5AC. These structural characterizations have significantly enhanced our understanding of how goblet cells contribute to maintaining a stable and protective mucosal barrier, which is crucial for ocular surface integrity. The review further delves into the intricate signaling networks governing the differentiation and regeneration of these cells. Key pathways, including Notch, Wnt/β-catenin, and TGF-β, have emerged as essential regulators of cell fate decisions, ensuring that goblet cells maintain their specialized functions. Critical transcription factors, such as Klf4, Klf5, and SPDEF, have been identified as indispensable for driving the differentiation process and sustaining the mature phenotype of goblet cells. Additionally, the modulatory effects of inflammatory mediators—such as IL-6, IL-13, and TNF-α—and growth factors, such as EGF and FGF, are explored. These molecular insights offer a robust framework for understanding the pathophysiological mechanisms underlying ocular surface diseases, wherein the dysregulation of these processes often results in diminished goblet cell numbers and impaired tear film stability. Innovative methodological approaches have provided a strong impetus to this field. The development of three-dimensional (3D) in vitro culture systems that replicate the native conjunctival microenvironment has enabled more physiologically relevant investigations of goblet cell biology. Moreover, the integration of stem cell technologies—including the use of induced pluripotent stem cells (iPSCs) and bone marrow-derived mesenchymal stem cells (BM-MSCs)—has made it possible to generate goblet cell-like epithelia, thereby presenting promising strategies for tissue engineering and regenerative therapies. The application of artificial intelligence in optimizing drug screening and biomaterial scaffold design represents an exciting frontier that may accelerate the translation of these findings into effective clinical interventions. In conclusion, this review underscores the central role of conjunctival goblet cells in preserving ocular surface health and illuminates the transformative potential of emerging regenerative approaches. Continued research focused on deciphering the intricate molecular mechanisms governing goblet cell function and regeneration is essential for developing innovative, targeted therapies that can significantly improve the management of ocular surface diseases and enhance patient quality of life.

Review Article

A review of corneal nerve and limbal stem cell

A review of corneal nerve and limbal stem cell

:68-84
 

The cornea is a transparent tissue that serves as the main refractive element of the eye ball.Limbal epithelial stem cells(LESCs), residing in the basal epithelial layer of the Palisades of Vogt located in the corneal limbus between cornea and scleral, are believed to be crucial for the continuous turnover of the corneal epithelium. The proliferation, migration, and differentiation of the LESCs are modulated by unique physical and chemical futures contained within the microenvironment known as the limbal niche. This niche, composed of nerve terminals, cells, extracellular matrix, vasculature, and signaling molecules, is the home for processe such as proliferation, migration and differentiation. Corneal nerve terminals possess special anatomical structures in the limbal region and basal epithelial cells, and they demonstrate pivotal biological effects in the regulation of the LESC function and corneal epithelium homeostasis. Biological molecules such as neuropeptides, neurotransmitters, and neurotrophic factors play a crucial role in modulating the LESCs phenotype responsible for corneal epithelium homeostasis. This paper will review recent studies on how  these nerve derived molecules function in this process and provide clear orientations for future research. 
The cornea is a transparent tissue that serves as the main refractive element of the eye ball.Limbal epithelial stem cells(LESCs), residing in the basal epithelial layer of the Palisades of Vogt located in the corneal limbus between cornea and scleral, are believed to be crucial for the continuous turnover of the corneal epithelium. The proliferation, migration, and differentiation of the LESCs are modulated by unique physical and chemical futures contained within the microenvironment known as the limbal niche. This niche, composed of nerve terminals, cells, extracellular matrix, vasculature, and signaling molecules, is the home for processe such as proliferation, migration and differentiation. Corneal nerve terminals possess special anatomical structures in the limbal region and basal epithelial cells, and they demonstrate pivotal biological effects in the regulation of the LESC function and corneal epithelium homeostasis. Biological molecules such as neuropeptides, neurotransmitters, and neurotrophic factors play a crucial role in modulating the LESCs phenotype responsible for corneal epithelium homeostasis. This paper will review recent studies on how  these nerve derived molecules function in this process and provide clear orientations for future research. 
Editorial
Review Article

Role of omics approaches in the study of pediatric cataract

Role of omics approaches in the study of pediatric cataract

:56-67
 

Pediatric cataract, a leading cause of blindness in children globally, imposing a significant financial burden on both families and society. The extensive phenotypic heterogeneity of this condition means that the underlying mechanisms remain poorly understood, limiting the development of precise and effective treatments. The advent of omics technologies has provided potent tools for unraveling the pathogenesis of pediatric cataract. By mapping expression profiles across various molecular levels, these omics approaches enhance our understanding of the diseases etiological mechanisms, aid in the identification of novel biomarkers and key pathways, and offer researchers new insights for the innovative strategies in disease diagnosis and targeted therapies. In this review, we summarize the application of omics approaches in clinical and basic research on pediatric cataract over the past decade, encompassing genomics, transcriptomics, proteomics, and metabolomics. Furthermore, we discuss the current challenges and future prospects of omics analyses in pediatric cataract studies.

Pediatric cataract, a leading cause of blindness in children globally, imposing a significant financial burden on both families and society. The extensive phenotypic heterogeneity of this condition means that the underlying mechanisms remain poorly understood, limiting the development of precise and effective treatments. The advent of omics technologies has provided potent tools for unraveling the pathogenesis of pediatric cataract. By mapping expression profiles across various molecular levels, these omics approaches enhance our understanding of the disease’s etiological mechanisms, aid in the identification of novel biomarkers and key pathways, and offer researchers new insights for the innovative strategies in disease diagnosis and targeted therapies. In this review, we summarize the application of omics approaches in clinical and basic research on pediatric cataract over the past decade, encompassing genomics, transcriptomics, proteomics, and metabolomics. Furthermore, we discuss the current challenges and future prospects of omics analyses in pediatric cataract studies.
Original Article

Stressful factors experienced by patients while waiting vitreo-retinal day surgery: a qualitative study

Stressful factors experienced by patients while waiting vitreo-retinal day surgery: a qualitative study

:46-55
 

Purpose: The day surgery mode has significantly reduced preoperative waiting time for patients. However, this mode also led to brief and sometimes abrupt interactions between patients with vision loss and nursing staff during the preoperative visits. Additionally, patients may experience negative emotions. The aim of this study was to describe the preoperative experiences and identify related stressful factors among patients waiting vitreo-retinal day surgery. Methods: This study was guided by an interpretive approach. Semi-structured, face-to-face, in-depth interviews were conducted with patients from August 2021 to October 2024. Inductive content analysis and research software were used to analyze the data. Results: Twenty-seven patients agreed to participate the interviews. Their ages ranged from 19 to 70 years old. The waiting time before hospitalization varied from 7 to 90 days. Three main categories emerged from patients’ complaints: day surgery procedures, concerns about eye conditions and supports. Conclusions: The findings underscore the importance of preoperative care services. It is suggested that providing accurate preoperative information and effective support can significantly enhance the quality of preoperative care service.


Purpose: The day surgery mode has significantly reduced preoperative waiting time for patients. However, this mode also led to brief and sometimes abrupt interactions between patients with vision loss and nursing staff during the preoperative visitsAdditionally, patients may experience negative emotions. The aim of this study was to describe the preoperative experiences and identify related stressful factors among patients waiting vitreo-retinal day surgery. Methods: This study was guided by an interpretive approach. Semi-structured, face-to-face, in-depth interviews were conducted with patients from August 2021 to October 2024. Inductive content analysis and research software were used to analyze the data. Results: Twenty-seven patients agreed to participate the interviews. Their ages ranged from 19 to 70 yearold. The waiting time before hospitalization varied from 7 to 90 days. Three main categories emerged from patients’ complaints: day surgery procedures, concerns about eye conditions and supports. Conclusions: The findings underscore the importance of preoperative care services. It is suggested that providing accurate preoperative information and effective support can significantly enhance the quality of preoperative care service.