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This study aimed to evaluate the antibacterial effects of a newly designed preservative-free multi-dose eye dropper that addresses various shortcomings found in conventional models. To thoroughly assess its performance, we compared bacterial contamination and filtration effects over time among three types of droppers: commercially available multi-dose droppers, conventional preservative-free droppers, and the newly designed preservative-free dropper utilizing air pressure differentials. The bacterial strains used to evaluate contamination included Staphylococcus aureus, Bacillus subtilis, and Aspergillus brasiliensis, with turbidity levels measured according to the McFarland Standards to ensure accuracy. In typical multi-dose eye droppers, bacterial contamination tended to increase significantly with extended usage periods, leading to potential health risks. However, in the preservative-free eye dropper using air pressure differentials, no bacterial growth was observed throughout the entire experimental period. In both forward and reverse filtration tests, the new preservative-free eye dropper successfully prevented bacteria from entering the vial and from being released to the outside through the dropper tip. Overall, this preservative-free reusable eye dropper, which relies on air pressure differentials, offers a safe, effective, and hygienic option for administering eye drops, while minimizing the side effects associated with preservatives and maintaining the sterility of the solution over time.

The number of Korean people who are currently suffering from depressive disorders that require medical treatment is assumed to be more than 2 million. However, only around 15% of those with depressive disorder are actively receiving medical treatment, and this leads to an increasing suicide rate. Hence, the National Evidence-based Healthcare Collaborating Agency held a round-table conference to provide information on depression and suicide and suggested a reasonable policy through comprehensive discussion with experts. The prevalence of depression, which is closely related to suicide rates, is lower in Korea than in the U.S., but the rate of suicide is the highest among Organisation for Economic Co-operation and Development countries. It is thought that the underestimated prevalence of depression is owing to the inconsistency between the diagnostic criteria of depression and characteristics of depression in Korea. Therefore, it is necessary to develop Korean diagnostic criteria for depression reflecting cultural characteristics and conduct a regular and organized nationwide survey. Moreover, a term related to suicide officially used by Statistics Korea is 'intentional self-injury'. However, in a Korea-based community study, it was found that 60% to 72% of those attempting suicide had mental disorders; thus suicide is not merely an intentional self-injury but a medical condition that should be treated. To reduce suicide, both medical and social approaches are necessary. Furthermore, a strengthening of the public perception that a medical approach is important for suicide prevention is greatly needed. Moreover, it is necessary to prepare an effective national suicide prevention strategy through studies evaluating the suicide prevention policies currently implemented and psychological autopsy of suicide deaths similar to those practiced in Finland. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]