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Peer-reviewed articles

2023

Caffery,B., Pucker,A., Chidi-Egboka,C., Obinwanne,C. J., Karkness,B., Carnt,N. A., Ng,A. Y. Lubricating drops for contact lens discomfort in adults Cochrane Database of Systematic Reviews 2023 (5):CD015751 [ Show Abstract ]

Objectives: This is a protocol for a Cochrane Review (intervention). The objectives are as follows:. To determine the efficacy and safety of lubricating drops for ocular discomfort associated with contact lens wear in adults.

Schulze,M., Fadel,D., Luensmann,D., Ng,A. Y., Guthrie,S., Woods,J., Jones,L. Evaluating the Performance of verofilcon A Daily Disposable Contact Lenses in a Group of Heavy Digital Device Users Clinical Ophthalmology 2023;173165-3175 [ Show Abstract ]

Purpose: The purpose of this study was to evaluate the performance of verofilcon A daily disposable contact lenses (CL) in CL wearers who identified themselves as heavy digital device users.
Patients and Methods: This prospective, non-masked, open-label study enrolled CL wearers who reported ≥ 6 hours digital device use per day. Participants were dispensed with the verofilcon A study lenses for 14± 2 days, to be worn for at least 5 days a week and 10 hours per day, while continuing their normal routine of digital device use. Participants rated the lens performance at the Day 14 visit using a 0– 100 (with 100 being best) scale. Ratings were completed at lens insertion, after 6 hours of digital device use, just before CL removal and for overall experience. Participants also completed a 4-point (strongly agree/disagree, slightly agree/disagree) Likert scale-based questionnaire.
Results: Thirty-two participants were eligible and completed the study (27 females; age 25.8 ± 6.0 years, ranging from 19 to 40). Overall lens performance ratings at the Day 14 visit (mean ± standard deviation) for comfort, dryness, and clarity of vision were 91 ± 11, 88 ± 11, and 92 ± 9, respectively. Subjective ratings were stable throughout the day with no significant differences after insertion, after 6 hours of digital device use and before CL removal (all p> 0.05). The majority of participants agreed that the study lenses performed well, provided good all-day comfort (28/32; p< 0.01) and good all-day vision (29/32; p< 0.01). Participants also agreed that after ≥ 6 hours of digital device use they were satisfied with CL comfort (27/32; p< 0.01), vision (29/32; p< 0.01) and that the lenses provided good performance (26/32; p< 0.01).
Conclusion: Verofilcon A lenses were found to perform well, with high ratings for comfort, dryness and vision that remained high throughout the day, during extensive digital device use.

Sullivan,D., da Costa,A. X., Del Duca,E., Doll,T., Grupcheva,C. N., Lazreg,S., Liu,S-H., McGee,S. R., Murthy,R., Narang,P., Ng,A. Y., Nistico,S., O'Dell,L., Roos,J., Shen,J., Markoulli,M. TFOS lifestyle: Impact of cosmetics on the ocular surface Ocular Surface 2023;29(July):77-130 [ Show Abstract ]

In this report the use of eye cosmetic products and procedures and how this represents a lifestyle challenge that may exacerbate or promote the development of ocular surface and adnexal disease is discussed. Multiple aspects of eye cosmetics are addressed, including their history and market value, psychological and social impacts, possible problems associated with cosmetic ingredients, products, and procedures, and regulations for eye cosmetic use. In addition, a systematic review that critically appraises randomized controlled trial evidence concerning the ocular effects of eyelash growth products is included. The findings of this systematic review highlight the evidence gaps and indicate future directions for research to focus on ocular surface outcomes associated with eyelash growth products.

2022

Guthrie,S., Ng,A. Y., Woods,J., Vega,J., Orsborn,G., Jones,L. Exploring the factors which impact overall satisfaction with single vision contact lenses Contact Lens Anterior Eye 2022;45(5):101579 [ Show Abstract ]

Purpose
To explore the impact of subjective factors (lens handling, comfort and vision) on overall single vision contact lens satisfaction.

Methods
Correlation analysis of a prospective, randomised, double-masked, bilateral crossover study involving 55 adapted lens wearers fitted with somofilcon A (SiHy) (clariti® 1 day, CooperVision) and etafilcon A (Hy) (1 DAY ACUVUE® MOIST, Johnson & Johnson Vision) was conducted. Subjective ratings of lens handling, comfort and vision collected after 1 week of lens wear for each lens type were correlated with overall satisfaction. Data were analysed by combining data for both lens types and also for each lens separately.

Results
For the combined analysis, significant correlations (p < 0.01) were found between subjective ratings of overall satisfaction and ratings of handing for application (r = 0.64), handling for removal (r = 0.50), comfort upon application (r = 0.59), comfort at end of day (r = 0.61), overall satisfaction with comfort (r = 0.88) and overall satisfaction with vision (r = 0.64).

Correlation analysis of the per lens data showed that lens specific correlations of overall satisfaction with handling for lens application varied greatly with lens material (SiHy: r = 0.26, p = 0.05 vs Hy: r = 0.72, p < 0.01). Correlation strength of comfort upon application/at end of day with overall satisfaction also varied with lens material (Application: SiHy: r = 0.40 vs Hy: r = 0.61; End of day: SiHy: r = 0.76 vs Hy: r = 0.58; all p ≤ 0.01).

Conclusion
Overall satisfaction was significantly correlated with the specific subjective evaluations of handling, vision and comfort. Correlations of overall satisfaction and ease of handling for each lens type suggest that, for habitual contact lens wearers, dissatisfaction with handling at the time of lens application can play a major role in overall dissatisfaction with a lens. Handling for application had a similar correlation (r) value as vision, suggesting that handling for application should not be underestimated when considering overall patient satisfaction.

Ng,A. Y., Woods,J., Jahn,T., Jones,L., Ritter,J. Effect of a novel omega-3 and omega-6 fatty acid supplement on dry eye disease: a 3-month randomized controlled trial Optometry & Vision Science 2022;99(1):67-75 [ Show Abstract ]

SIGNIFICANCE
Supplementing diet with a novel combination of omega-3 and omega-6 fatty acids significantly improved symptoms in extremely symptomatic participants with dry eye disease (DED).

PURPOSE
This study aimed to determine the effect of daily intake of a novel combination of essential fatty acids on signs and symptoms of DED.

METHODS
Participants with moderate to severe DED were enrolled in a prospective, randomized, double-masked parallel group study. Participants ingested either the treatment supplement containing omega-3 and omega-6 fatty acids (1200 mg eicosapentaenoic acid, 300 mg docosahexaenoic acid, 150 mg γ-linoleic acid) or the placebo (coconut and olive oil) daily for 3 months. To determine compliance, Omega-3 Index blood tests were conducted. At baseline and at 1 and 3 months, the following assessments were conducted: Ocular Surface Disease Index (OSDI) questionnaire and Symptom Assessment Questionnaire in Dry Eye, noninvasive tear breakup time, tear meniscus height, tear osmolarity, ocular redness, surface staining, Schirmer test, and meibography.

RESULTS
Fifty participants (mean ± standard deviation baseline OSDI score, 52.2 ± 16.5) completed the study: 24 randomized to treatment and 26 randomized to placebo. Although there was an improvement in OSDI score at 3 months for both groups (treatment: −13.4 points, P = .003; placebo: −7.8 points, P = .02), participants with baseline OSDI scores >52 demonstrated an even larger significant improvement in symptoms with the treatment at 3 months compared with baseline (n = 13, −20.8 points, P = .002). There were no significant changes in any of the ocular assessments at 1 or 3 months (all P > .05). After 3 months, Omega-3 Index increased by 34% in the treatment group (baseline, 5.3 ± 0.8; 3 months, 8.0 ± 2.1; P < .001) and did not change in the placebo group (baseline, 4.8 ± 0.8; 3 months, 4.8 ± 0.6; P = .95).

CONCLUSIONS
Supplementation with eicosapentaenoic acid, docosahexaenoic acid, and γ-linoleic acid resulted in a significant and clinically meaningful improvement of dry eye symptoms in extremely symptomatic participants with DED (OSDI ≥52).

2021

Schulze,M., Ng,A. Y., Yang,M., Panjwani,F., Srinivasan,S., Jones,L., Senchyna,M. Bulbar redness and dry eye disease: comparison of a validated subjective grading scale and an objective automated method Optometry & Vision Science 2021;98(2):113-120 [ Show Abstract ]

SIGNIFICANCE
In this study, assessments of conjunctival redness were performed to evaluate whether patients with or without dry eye disease (DED) could be discriminated based on this measure. Our findings suggest that subjectively grading redness by quadrant, as opposed to automated en face measurements, may be more suitable for this purpose.

PURPOSE
This study aimed to quantify bulbar redness using the validated bulbar redness (VBR) grading scale and an automated objective method (Oculus Keratograph 5M; K5M) in participants with DED and non-DED controls.

METHODS
Participants with DED (Ocular Surface Disease Index score ≥20 and Oxford scale corneal staining ≥2) and controls (Ocular Surface Disease Index score ≤10 and corneal staining ≤1) attended two study visits. In part 1A of visit 1, baseline bulbar redness was graded with the VBR scale in each conjunctival quadrant of both eyes, followed by automated measurements of temporal and nasal redness with the K5M. This was immediately followed by part 1B, during which a topical vasoconstrictor was instilled into both eyes. Redness assessments were repeated 5 and 30 minutes after instillation with both instruments. Participants returned 14 days later for visit 2, where the same assessments as for visit 1A were repeated.

RESULTS
Seventy-four participants (50 DED and 24 controls) completed the study. There were statistically significant differences in redness between the DED and control groups when assessed with the VBR scale (14/16 comparisons; all, P < .05), whereas no significant differences in K5M-derived redness between the DED and non-DED groups were found at any location or time point. Both subjective and objective instruments detected statistically significant reductions in redness 5 and 30 minutes after instillation of the vasoconstrictor (all, P < .01).

CONCLUSIONS
Although both subjective and objective instruments were sensitive to detecting changes in redness induced by vasoconstriction, statistically significant differences in redness between DED and control groups were only found using the VBR scale.

Stapleton,F., Bakkar,M., Carnt,N., Chalmers,R., Kumar Vijay,A., Marasini,S., Ng,A. Y., Tan,J., Wagner,H., Woods,C., Wolffsohn,J. S. CLEAR - Contact lens complications Contact Lens Anterior Eye 2021;44(2):330-367 [ Show Abstract ]

Contact lens-related complications are common, affecting around one third of wearers, although most are mild and easily managed. Contact lenses have well-defined anatomical and physiological effects on the ocular surface and can result in other consequences due to the presence of a biologically active material. A contact lens interacts with the tear film, ocular surface, skin, endogenous and environmental microorganisms, components of care solutions and other antigens which may result in disease specific to contact lens wear, such as metabolic or hypersensitivity disorders. Contact lens wear may also modify the epidemiology or pathophysiology of recognised conditions, such as papillary conjunctivitis or microbial keratitis. Wearers may also present with intercurrent disease, meaning concomitant or pre-existing conditions unrelated to contact lens wear, such as allergic eye disease or blepharitis, which may complicate the diagnosis and management of contact lens-related disease.

Complications can be grouped into corneal infection (microbial keratitis), corneal inflammation (sterile keratitis), metabolic conditions (epithelial: microcysts, vacuoles, bullae, tight lens syndrome, epithelial oedema; stromal: superficial and deep neovascularisation, stromal oedema [striae/folds], endothelial: blebs, polymegethism/ pleomorphism), mechanical (corneal abrasion, corneal erosion, lens binding, warpage/refractive error changes; superior epithelial arcuate lesion, mucin balls, conjunctival epithelial flaps, ptosis, discomfort), toxic and allergic disorders (papillary conjunctivitis, solution-induced corneal staining, incomplete neutralisation of peroxide, Limbal Stem Cell Deficiency), tear resurfacing disorders/dry eye (contact lens-induced dry eye, Meibomian gland dysfunction, lid wiper epitheliopathy, lid parallel conjunctival folds, inferior closure stain, 3 and 9 o'clock stain, dellen, dimple veil) or contact lens discomfort. This report summarises the best available evidence for the classification, epidemiology, pathophysiology, management and prevention of contact lens-related complications in addition to presenting strategies for optimising contact lens wear.

Tichenor,A., Cofield,S., Gann,D., Elder,M., Ng,A. Y., Walsh,K., Jones,L., Nichols,J. Frequency of Contact Lens Complications Between Contact Lens Wearers Using Multipurpose Solutions Versus Hydrogen Peroxide in the United States and Canada Eye & Contact Lens 2021;47(5):277-282 [ Show Abstract ]

Objectives: To retrospectively compare frequency of contact lens (CL) complications in soft CL users of hydrogen peroxide (H2O2) and multipurpose solutions (MPS).

Methods: This was a multicenter, retrospective chart review of CL records from each patient's three most recent eye examinations at academic and private practices. Patients must have used the same solution type for at least 3 years. Univariate analyses were conducted using t tests, and chi-square or Fisher's exact test for categorical measures.

Results: There were 1,137 patients included, with 670 (59%) using MPS and 467 (41%) H2O2. In total, 706 (62%) experienced at least one complication; 409 used MPS and 297 used H2O2. There was no difference in the proportion of patients experiencing at least one complication between MPS (61%) and H2O2 (64%) (P=0.38). Multipurpose solutions users were more likely to report discomfort compared with H2O2 users (P=0.04). Presumed microbial keratitis was experienced by 16 MPS and nine H2O2 users (P=0.60).

Conclusions: No significant differences were found in the frequency of CL complications between MPS and H2O2. H2O2 users were less likely to report discomfort and thus switching to a H2O2 system may be an alternative in CL users with discomfort.

2019

Moezzi,A. M., Varikooty,J., Luensmann,D., Schulze,M., Ng,A. Y., Karkkainen,T., Xu,J., Jones,L. The short-term physiological impact of switching reusable silicone hydrogel wearers into a hydrogel daily disposable multifocal Clinical Ophthalmology 2019;13:1193-1202 [ Show Abstract ]

Purpose: To evaluate ocular physiological responses to etafilcon A multifocal (etMF) daily disposable (DD) lenses after 4 weeks of wear, when switching from habitual silicone hydrogel (SiHy) daily wear.
Method: A single-arm, open-label, bilateral dispensing study was conducted in 39 habitual spherical SiHy wearers (14 hyperopes; 25 myopes). Clinical visits occurred with habitual SiHy (control) at baseline and after 4 weeks of etMF DD open-eye lens wear at exit. Objective limbal/bulbar hyperemia using the Oculus K5M (0–4) and subjective grading of lid wiper epitheliopathy (LWE) (0–4) were tested for non-inferiority (NI), using a margin of 1 grade. Corneal thickness along a 10 mm cord was measured using the Visante OCT and tested for NI using a 30 μm margin. Corneal staining area was graded (0–100%).
Results: The least-square mean differences (LSMD) and 95% confidence interval (95% CI) between etMF DD and habitual SiHy in central and peripheral corneal thickness (μm) were 3.64 (−2.0, 9.29) and 3.0 (−7.72, 13.72) in hyperopic, and 3.56 (−0.66, 7.78) and 6.40 (−1.62, 14.42) in myopic subjects. The LSMD (95% CI) for bulbar and limbal hyperemia were −0.08 (−0.19, 0.02) and −0.01 (−0.12, 0.09) in hyperopes, and 0.04 (−0.03, 0.12) and 0.04 (−0.04, 0.11) in myopes. The LSMD (95% CI) for LWE were 0.11 (−0.39, 0.60) and 0.30 (−0.07, 0.67) for hyperopes and myopes, respectively.
Conclusions: No clinically significant differences in a variety of physiological responses were found when habitual reusable SiHy daily wear subjects were refitted into hydrogel etMF, when the subjects were followed for 4 weeks.

2018

Ng,A. Y., Keech,A., Jones,L. Tear osmolarity changes after use of hydroxypropyl-guar-based lubricating eye drops Clinical Ophthalmology 2018;12:695-700 [ Show Abstract ]

Purpose: To evaluate tear osmolarity after using a hydroxypropyl-guar (HP-guar)-based lubricating eye drop four times daily (QID) for 3 weeks. Methods: Thirty-one participants with dry eye disease (Ocular Surface Disease Index [OSDI] score ≥20 and tear osmolarity ≥300 mOsm/L in at least one eye) were enrolled in this prospective, dispensing, non-randomized study involving a baseline visit and 3‑week follow-up. Tear osmolarity, non-invasive tear break up time (NITBUT), conjunctival hyperemia, corneal and conjunctival staining were determined at baseline. Participants were instructed to instill one drop of a HP-guar-based drop QID in each eye for 3 weeks. At the follow-up visit, the symptoms and ocular surface parameters were reassessed. At this visit, one HP-guar drop was instilled into each eye and osmolarity was measured after 15 minutes, to examine short-term changes in osmolarity. Results: Twenty-eight participants completed the study (5M, 23F; median age 54 yrs, range 25-83 yrs). At baseline, mean OSDI score was 44.9±15.2 and mean osmolarities were 314.63±11.9/306.6±10.1 mOsm/L (worst eye [WE]/better eye [BE]). After 3 weeks, mean osmolarity reduced to 307.7±15.7/303.9±11.3 mOsm/L (WE/BE; p<0.05 and p=0.228, respectively) and mean OSDI scores reduced to 28.3±17.0 (p<0.01). A significant reduction in osmolarity was observed 15 minutes after instilling the lubricating drop (p<0.05 WE, p=0.09 BE). Significant improvements in central corneal staining (p<0.05 OU) and NITBUT (p0.05). Conclusions: A significant reduction in tear osmolarity and improvements in dry eye symptoms, corneal staining, and NITBUT were observed after 3 weeks of QID use of a HP-guar-based lubricant drop. A decrease in osmolarity was also demonstrated 15 minutes after drop instillation.

Scientific Presentations

2022

Ng AY. Pain and (almost) no stain: exploring corneal neuropathic pain beyond the slit lamp 10th Canadian Optometry School Research Conference, Montréal, Canada, Dec 3, 2022

Ng AY, Dantam J, Woods J, McEwen B, Jones L.. Examining Symptomatic Relief and Kinetic Tear Film Stability of I-DROP MGD Eye Drops Optometry's Meeting ePosters Virtual Event, Jun 8, 2022 [ Show Abstract ]

Background:
I-DROP MGD is a novel formulation of viscoadaptive hyaluronan, phosphorylcholine and glycerin to support integration, stabilization and enhancement of the tear film lipid layer as well as hydration of the ocular surface. The purpose of this study was to compare the difference in tear film measures after instilling I-DROP MGD (test) compared with another hyaluronic acid-based lubricant, Thealoz Duo (control), and to examine the subjective relief of dry eye symptoms with I-DROP MGD over 1-week.

Methods:
This prospective pilot study (n=10) comprised of two parts. Part 1 was a non-dispensing, doublemasked study involving contralateral application of test and control drops, followed by a two-hour observation period. Non-invasive tear break-up time (NITBUT), tear meniscus height (TMH) and lipid layer thickness (LLT) were measured out to 2 hours. Part 2 was a dispensing study, where one bottle of I-DROP MGD was provided to participants to use bilaterally at least once daily for 7 days. After 7 days, subjective ratings (0-100 scale) of comfort, soothing and quality of vision along with OSDI and SPEED scores were collected and compared with participant's habitual eye drops.

Results:
Part 1: NITBUT and TMH were significantly greater with I-DROP MGD (14.2 ± 5.1s and 0.42 ± 0.22mm) compared to Thealoz Duo (10.5 ± 5.7s and 0.29 ± 0.10mm) after 60 minutes (p =0.037) and 5-minutes of instillation (p =0.022) respectively; LLT was significantly thicker with Thealoz Duo (79.5 ± 15.7nm) compared to I-DROP MGD (68.5 ± 13.8nm) after 5 minutes of instillation (p=0.005). Part 2: Subjective ratings for comfort and soothing were significantly greater with I-DROP MGD (81.6 ± 5.7 and 86.8 ± 8.1) compared to habitual eye drops (73.3 ± 13.7 and 75.3 ± 19.8), p=0.027 and p=0.010 respectively. No significant differences were observed for quality of vision. OSDI and SPEED scores were significantly lower following use of I-DROP MGD (33.2 ± 11.7 and 11.1 ± 3.6) when compared to habitual drops (45.2 ± 14.7 and 14.9 ± 2.7), p=0.017 and p=0.006 respectively.

Conclusion:
When used for 7 days, I-DROP MGD resulted in clinically relevant reductions in dry eye symptoms, measured with OSDI.

Ng AY, Woods J, Jones L. The impact of fluid intake on dry eye symptoms and signs American Academy of Optometry, San Diego, 2022 [ Show Abstract ][ PDF ]

Purpose: Preventing dehydration is essential for optimal bodily function. This study investigated if maintaining the recommended daily fluid intake set out by the Dietitians of Canada affects tear film measures and ocular symptoms in participants with and without dry eye disease (DED).

Methods: This was a prospective, non-randomized interventional pilot study. Twenty participants were enrolled: 10 with DED and 10 healthy controls. At Baseline, symptom questionnaires (Ocular Surface Disease Index [OSDI] and Ocular Comfort Index [OCI]) and habitual fluid intake was documented. Baseline tear film measures (non-invasive tear break-up time [NITBUT], tear meniscus height [TMH], non-anaesthetized Schirmer test) were also assessed. Eligible participants were instructed to attain the recommended daily intake (3.0L for males, 2.2L for females) for 7 days, while keeping a diary to track all fluids consumed during this time. On Day 8, participants returned for follow-up: symptom questionnaires and tear film measures were reassessed and fluid intake diaries were collected.

Results: Twenty participants completed the study; 4/20 (3 DED, 1 control) met the fluid intake recommendation prior to starting the study and were excluded from data analysis. All remaining 16 participants (8 male, 8 females; 7 DED, 9 control) increased their fluid intake for 7 days. There was a statistically significant and clinically relevant improvement in OSDI scores in the DED group after the fluid intake intervention only (Control baseline: 4 ± 3, Day 8: 2 ± 3, p>0.05; DED baseline: 40 ± 12, Day 8: 29 ± 8, p<0.001). Similarly, OCI scores (0-100, where 100=worst level of discomfort) were 5-points better in both groups after maintaining the fluid intake (Control baseline: 26 ± 5, Day 8: 21 ± 9; DED baseline: 40 ± 3, Day 8: 35 ± 4; both p0.05; DED baseline: 0.21 ± 0.09, Day 8: 0.31 ± 0.15, p=0.043. Schirmer Control baseline: 26 ± 12, Day 8: 27 ± 10; DED baseline: 24 ± 14, Day 8: 23 ± 15; both p>0.05). Compared to baseline, a small increase in NITBUT was observed in the control group and a small decrease observed in the DED group, however neither changes were statistically significant (Control baseline: 11.7 ± 6.5, Day 8: 12.9 ± 8.3; DED baseline: 8.1 ± 4.2, Day 8: 6.4 ± 3.1; both p>0.05).

Conclusions: In participants with DED, maintaining increased fluid intake for 7 days significantly improved OSDI and OCI scores and increased tear volume however, there was no change in non-anaesthetized Schirmer tests or NITBUT. In the control group, small changes in tear film measures were found, however these were not clinically or statistically significant.

2021

Ng AY, Yumori J. Rethinking Eye Cosmetics and Cosmetic Procedures: What Should We be Telling Our Patients? Best of Boston Academy (Virtual), 2021 [ Show Abstract ]

Cosmetics are used widely to enhance our appearance, clean, and maintain the condition of our skin. With face mask-wearing on the rise many cosmetic users are choosing to accentuate their eyes further with eye cosmetics. However, patients might not have considered the effects that some eye cosmetic products and procedures may have on their eyes. This session will explore the complications that can arise from some common products and procedures, and highlight points of discussion where we should be engaging with our patients.

2020

Guthrie S, Woods J, Vega J, Orsborn G, Ng AY, Jones L. Exploring the factors which impact overall satisfaction with contact lenses Academy at Home, 2020 [ Show Abstract ]

Purpose: To evaluate the performance of two spherical lenses, one silicone hydrogel (SiHy) (somofilcon A) and one hydrogel (Hy) (etafilcon A), using subjective evaluations after 1-week and to correlate the relationships between specific subjective evaluations of lens performance and subjective overall satisfaction.
Methods: Fifty-five subjects participated in a prospective, double-masked, bilateral crossover dispensing study, wearing each lens for 1 week in a randomized order. Subjective ratings (0-10 scale) were completed after 1 week based on a typical day experience and a 4-point Likert scale (Strong/slight preference for each lens) was used to determine lens preference.
Results: Data for both lenses were combined and correlation analyses were conducted. Overall satisfaction was found to be significantly correlated (p<0.01) with handling for insertion (r=0.64), overall satisfaction with vision (r=0.64), handling for removal (r=0.50), comfort at insertion (r=0.59), comfort at end of day (r=0.61) and overall satisfaction with comfort (r=0.88). In addition, insertion comfort was significantly correlated with overall satisfaction with comfort (r=0.66). Considering the lenses separately, SiHy was rated significantly higher for handling for lens insertion compared to Hy (9.4 vs 8.1, p<0.01) and correlation strength with overall satisfaction varied greatly with lens material (SiHy: r=0.26, p=0.05 vs Hy: r=0.72, p<0.01). Overall lens preference based on lens handing for insertion also strongly favoured SiHy (37 subjects vs 18, p<0.01). Comfort at insertion was rated significantly higher at insertion with SiHy (9.0 vs 8.1, p<0.01) and similarly at end of day (8.1 vs 7.9, p=0.80). Correlation strength of comfort at insertion/end of day with overall satisfaction again varied with lens material (Insertion: SiHy: r=0.40 vs Hy: r=0.61; End of day: SiHy: r=0.76 vs Hy: r=0.58; all p≤ 0.01). There were no other statistically significant differences in subjective results for SiHy and Hy.
Conclusions: Significant correlations were found between overall satisfaction and the specific subjective evaluations of handling, vision and comfort. Interestingly, handling for insertion had a similar correlation (r) value as vision, suggesting that handling for insertion should not be underestimated when considering overall patient satisfaction. And while insertion and end of day comfort correlated moderately with overall satisfaction, overall satisfaction with comfort highly correlated with overall satisfaction. Separate analysis of SiHy and Hy also indicate that lower handling and comfort scores for Hy at insertion drove a higher correlation, suggesting that dissatisfaction with both handling for lens insertion and comfort upon lens insertion can play major roles in overall dissatisfaction with a lens.

Luensmann D, Schulze M, Ng AY, Woods J, Jones L. Refitting symptomatic daily disposable contact lens wearers with dry eye disease with delefilcon A lenses Academy at Home, 2020 [ Show Abstract ]

Purpose: To refit symptomatic wearers of daily disposable (DD) contact lenses with a confirmed dry eye diagnosis with Dailies Total1 (delefilcon A, Alcon) to evaluate the performance of the new lenses after one month of wear.
Methods: In this prospective, participant-masked study (over-labelled lenses), symptomatic DD lens wearers were recruited who demonstrated symptoms and signs of dry eye disease according to the TFOS DEWS II criteria. The performance of the lenses after one month was evaluated using subjective ratings and comfort scores, and by determining average wear time and comfortable wear time. Lens wear times as well as subjective symptom scores for comfort, dryness and vision (0-100 scale, with 100 being best) with habitual DD were collected at the screening visit and these results were then compared to delefilcon A after 1 month of wear. The data were not normally distributed, therefore non-parametric analysis (Wilcoxon Matched Pairs Test) was conducted. Data are reported as median (range), with delefilcon A data reported first.
Results: In total, 27 symptomatic DD lens wearers (19 female, 8 male) completed the study. Comfort ratings across all participants were significantly higher (p=0.014) for delefilcon A (80 (40-100)) compared to habitual DD lenses (80 (25-90)). Participants reported less dryness (p=0.007) with delefilcon A compared to their own lenses (80 (40-100) vs 70 (20-95)), and no difference in vision (p>0.05, 90 (50-100) vs (85 (60-100)). There were no statistically significant differences in total hours of lens wear per day (p>0.05, 12.5 hours (6.5-17) vs 11 hours (2.5-16)) or for comfortable wearing time (p>0.05, 8 hours (1-17) vs 6 hours (1-14.8). There were no lens-related ocular findings after one month of delefilcon A wear.
Conclusion: In general, participants had a positive lens wear experience with delefilcon A and rated this lens more comfortable and less dry compared to their habitual DD lenses. This suggests that symptomatic DD lens wearers with dry eye disease may benefit when refit into delefilcon A lenses.

Schulze M, Ng AY, Luensmann D, Guthrie S, Woods J, Jones L. The subjective response to verofilcon A daily disposable contact lenses during extensive digital device use Academy at Home, 2020 [ Show Abstract ]

Purpose: To evaluate the subjective response of habitual lens wearers during extensive digital device use when switched to Precision1 (verofilcon A) daily disposable (DD) contact lenses (CLs).
Methods: Volunteers between 18-40 years of age who used digital devices for at least 6 hours/day while wearing their habitual CLs were recruited for the study. Eligible participants were dispensed with verofilcon A DD CLs for a period of 2 weeks, during which they were required to wear the study CLs for at least 5 days/week and at least 10 hours/day. Participants returned after 142 days for their final visit, where they reported their CL wear time and time spent using digital devices, and rated their typical experience on a 0 to 100 scale, with 100 being best. Comfort, dryness and clarity of vision with verofilcon A were rated directly after insertion, after 6 hours of digital device use, and just before removal, as well as by rating their overall performance. Participants also completed a 4-point (strongly agree, slightly agree, slightly disagree, strongly disagree) Likert scale-based questionnaire. Subjective ratings were not normally distributed, therefore non-parametric analysis was conducted and data are reported as median (range). The Likert scale responses were analyzed using binomial testing.
Results: Twenty participants completed the study (18F:2M), mean age of 25.1 ± 6.0 years (range 19-40). They reported their typical day to include median CL wear time of 13.8 hours (10.5-17), comfortable CL wear time of 12.1 hours (8-16.5) and digital device use of 9 hours (6-12). After 2 weeks of verofilcon A DD CL wear, subjective ratings after 6 hours of digital device use were high, with ratings for a typical day of 93 (68-100) for comfort, 93 (52-100) for dryness and 96 (70-100) for clarity of vision. After 2 weeks of wear, the majority of participants agreed that the study lenses provided good comfort (16/20 subjects; p=0.01) and good vision (18/20; p<0.01) all day long. Similarly, the majority of participants were satisfied with the comfort (16/20; p=0.01), vision (18/20; p<0.01) and overall performance (16/20; p=0.01) they experienced with the study lenses while using digital devices for 6 hours. Additionally, most reported they did not experience any eye strain while using verofilcon A lenses (n=16/20; p=0.01). No significant lens-related ocular findings were observed after 2 weeks of wear.
Conclusions: After 2 weeks of wear, participants rated the performance of verofilcon A DD CLs very highly, with median overall performance ratings for comfort, dryness and vision all 93 on the 0 to 100 scale (with 100 being best). Verofilcon A DD CLs may be a viable alternative for those struggling with their habitual lens performance when spending long hours using digital devices.

2019

Ng AY, Woods J, Jahn T, Jones L, Ritter J. The effect of a novel oral supplement containing omega-3 and omega-6 fatty acids on the signs and symptoms of dry eye disease American Academy of Optometry, Orlando, 2019 [ Show Abstract ][ PDF ]

Purpose: To determine the effect of daily intake of an essential fatty acid supplement on the signs and symptoms of dry eye disease (DED) in patients with moderate to severe symptoms. The supplement contains omega-3 fatty acids (1200mg eicosapentaenoic acid [EPA] and 300mg docosahexaenoic acid [DHA]) and the novel addition of an omega-6 fatty acid (150mg gamma-linoleic acid [GLA]).

Methods: This was a prospective, double-masked, randomized, parallel group pilot study. Participants were eligible if they had an Ocular Surface Disease Index (OSDI) score ≥ 23 and had not taken omega-3 or -6 supplements in the previous 3 months. Participants were randomized to use one of two liquid supplements: the treatment supplement (EPA, DHA and GLA combination), or the placebo supplement (coconut and olive oil). Participants were instructed to take one teaspoon, once daily for three months. In addition to keeping a diary, an omega-3 index blood test was conducted at baseline and 3 months to confirm compliance of supplement use. At baseline, 1 and 3 months the following assessments were conducted: OSDI questionnaire, non-invasive tear break-up time (NITBUT), tear meniscus height (TMH), tear osmolarity, ocular redness and surface staining, Schirmer test and meibography to assess meibomian gland (MG) dropout.

Results: Fifty participants completed the study: 24 randomized to the treatment group, 26 randomized to placebo. Participants were 95% compliant with daily dosing over the study period. After 3 months of supplement use, a 34% increase in omega-3 index blood values was observed in the treatment group (baseline: 5.3±0.8, 3 months: 8.0 ± 2.1, p50) at baseline demonstrated a clinically significant improvement with the treatment supplement (n=13, 20.8 point reduction, p=0.002) at 3 months compared to the placebo group (n=12, 8.4 point reduction, p=0.066). There were no clinically significant changes in NITBUT, TMH, tear osmolarity, ocular redness and surface staining, Schirmer test or MG dropout, (all p>0.05).

Conclusions: Omega-3 supplementation is an established therapeutic option for DED. This cohort of participants who were predominantly in the severe DED category by OSDI classification, experienced clinically meaningful improvements in their dry eye symptoms associated with supplementation with EPA, DHA and GLA. The addition of the omega-6 GLA in this formulation may have contributed to the significant improvement in dry eye symptoms.

Tichenor A, Cofield S, Gann D, Elder M, Ng AY, Walsh K, Jones L, Nichols J. Frequency of contact lens complications between contact lens wearers using multipurpose solutions versus hydrogen peroxide in the United States and Canada American Academy of Optometry, Orlando, 2019 [ Show Abstract ]

Purpose: To retrospectively compare frequency and likelihood of contact lens complications in long-term soft contact lens (CL) users of hydrogen peroxide (PXD) and multipurpose solutions (MPS).

Methods: This was a multicenter, retrospective chart review study of soft CL patient records. The study was conducted at two academic clinic sites, the University of Alabama at Birmingham School of Optometry and CORE, School of Optometry & Vision Science, University of Waterloo, and across five private practice clinical sites (three in the US and two in Canada). Records of established, adult soft CL wearers were reviewed from the three most recent full examination visits. Patients must have used the same CL solution technology (either MPS or PXD) documented at the first and last visit for at least three years. Data collected included demographics, CL solution, and any complications for either eye. Univariate analyses were conducted using Chi-Square or Fisher’s Exact test for categorical measures, as applicable. Covariate adjusted logistic regression models were used for categorical outcomes using Likelihood Ratio Chi-Square Test.

Results: In total, there were 1137 subjects included across the seven clinical locations, with 670 (59%) MPS users and 467 (41%) PXD users. The MPS users were 57% female with a mean (±SD) age of 42.9 (±14.7) years. The PXD users were 43% female with a mean age of 43.2
(±14.2) years. At the academic clinic sites, 428 records (38%) were reviewed of which 244 (57%) were MPS users. At the private practice sites, 709 records (62%) were reviewed and 426 (60%) were MPS users. Of all subjects, 706 (62%) experienced at least one complication over three visits; 409 were MPS users and 297 were PXD users. The most common complication was papillae (n=311, 27%) followed by hyperemia (n=242, 21%) and discomfort (n=240, 21%).There was no difference in the proportion of subjects experiencing at least one complication over the three visits between MPS (61%) and PXD (64%) users (p=0.38). Nonetheless, MPS users were more likely to report discomfort at least one time over the three visits compared to PXD users (p=0.04). Infectious keratitis was experienced by 25 subjects (2%); 19 were MPS users and 9 were PXD users (p=0.60).

Conclusion: While no differences were found in the frequency of contact lens complications between MPS and PXD users, the ocular surface health benefits of PXD should be considered when determining the best lens care option for patients. In addition, MPS users were more likely to report low levels of discomfort at least once over the time period reviewed. Therefore, PXD may be a beneficial solution alternative in CL users who report discomfort.

2018

Woods J, Ng AY, Luensmann D, Guthrie S, Jones L. Short-term comfort comparison of two daily disposable contact lenses of different material and modulus Invest Ophthalmol Vis Sci 2018;E-Abstract 1753 [ Show Abstract ][ PDF ]

Purpose: Daily disposable contact lenses (DDs) are now widely available in both silicone hydrogel (SH) and hydrogel (H) materials. The higher oxygen transmissibility of SH materials provides many benefits, but their higher modulus has been linked with reduced lens comfort compared to H lenses. This randomized, double-masked clinical trial assessed the short-term comfort of two DDs of differing modulus, yet similar water content (WC): a SH-DD (somofilcon A; clariti® 1 day; CooperVision; 0.50MPa modulus, 56% WC) and a H-DD (etafilcon A; 1-Day Acuvue® Moist®; Johnson & Johnson; 0.29MPa modulus, 57% WC).

Methods: 120 subjects wore the lenses contralaterally, over one day. Targeted recruitment meant that 60 subjects were habitual H-DD wearers (all adapted wearers of 1-Day Acuvue Moist), 60 were non-DD habitual wearers (adapted to various SH and H re-usable lenses). Subjects rated lens comfort on a 0-100 integer scale (100= cannot be felt) at insertion and then hourly until 8hrs. Of particular interest was the comfort at the beginning and end of the 8hr wear period and these data points were tested for equivalence. At the final visit subjects were asked for their lens preference, based on comfort.

Results: Mean subjective comfort was not different between SH-DD and H-DD across the wear period (p>0.05), on insertion (87±14 SH-DD vs 89±14 H-DD; p>0.05) or after 8hrs (82±18 SH-DD vs 83±17 H-DD; p>0.05). Based on equivalency margins of ±5-points, the study lenses showed equivalent comfort at insertion (p=0.03) and at 8hrs (p=0.001). Both lenses exhibited a significant reduction in comfort over the 8hr period (both p0.05). Lens preference was not different between lenses at dispensing or at the final visit (both p>0.05).

Conclusions: Initial and 8hr comfort were not compromised with the SH-DD compared to the H-DD, despite its higher modulus, and there was no difference in the lens preference distribution. The results suggest that lower comfort should not be anticipated when fitting SH-DDs of an appropriate design, thus allowing other material properties such as high oxygen permeability to be considered.

Woods J, Ng AY, Luensmann D, Jones L. Short-term comfort comparison of a low modulus hydrogel vs a higher modulus silicone hydrogel daily disposable lens Contact Lens & Anterior Eye 2018;41, Supp 1:S42

2017

Moezzi A, Varikooty J, Luensmann D, Schulze M, Ng AY, Karkkainen T, Xu J, Jones L. Evaluation of Clinical Success with etafilcon A multifocal daily disposable lenses Optom Vis Sci 2017;94: E-Abstract 175341

2015

Ng AY, Keech A, Jones L. Detection of Tear Film Osmolarity Changes After Use of a Hydroxypropyl Guar-Based Lubricating Eye Drop Invest Ophthalmol Vis Sci 2015;56: E-abstract 4429 [ PDF ]

Schulze M, Luensmann D, Ng AY, Panjwani F, Srinivasan S, Jones L. The relationship between the positioning of multifocal contact lens optics and satisfaction with vision Optom Vis Sci 2015;92: E-abstract 155256 [ PDF ]

Continuing Education Presentations

2024

Chalmers R, Ng AY, Pucker A. You Can Help Avoid Contact Lens Dropouts NCC, Veldhoven, Netherlands, Mar 11, 2024

Ng AY, Jones L, Chalmers R. The Importance of Contact Lens Care on Safety  NCC, Veldhoven, Netherlands, Mar 10, 2024

2019

Jones L, Ng AY. TFOS DEWS II report: Applying the clinical recommendations through case-based learning Alcon CE meeting, Calgary, Canada, 2019

Jones L, Walsh K, Ng AY, Ngo W. TFOS DEWS II report: Applying the clinical recommendations through case-based learning Alcon CE meeting, Cambridge, Canada, 2019

Professional Publications

2023

Ng AY. Fast Forward to the Future: Going Green with Daily Disposables Contact Lens Spectrum 2023;38, June: 47

Ng AY, Jones L. CLs: Addressing core questions about sustainability Optician 2023, April 7: 16-17

2022

Ng AY. Replace your contact lenses on time. Patient handout https://contactlensupdate.com/2022/02/28/patient-handout-replace-your-contact-lenses-on-time/ 2022;64

2021

Ng AY. CLEAR report summary: Contact Lens Complications https://contactlensupdate.com/2021/06/15/contact-lens-complications/ 2021;60

Ng AY, Yang M. Why you shouldn’t neglect eye care during the pandemic The Conversation 2021;March 7 [ Show Abstract ]

Since COVID-19 emerged, access to eye care has continued to change. Lockdowns and concerns about virus exposure have caused people of all ages to cancel and delay routine appointments, raising red flags among eye-care professionals. As the pandemic continues into its second year, can ocular health be neglected any longer?

Our team of optometrists and clinical scientists at the Centre for Ocular Research & Education (CORE) hear the confusion and concerns about people’s eyes during COVID-19. Addressing the most common questions — many of which we keep up to date at COVIDeyefacts.org — can help you and your family maintain the best vision while staying safe.

2019

Ng AY. Summary: IMI Myopia genetics report ContactLensUpdate.com 2019

2017

Ng AY. Summary: TFOS DEWS II Diagnostic methodology report ContactLensUpdate.com 2017;October, 38:

2016

Jones L, Ng AY, Thompson B. Keeping up with ocular fatigue in the digital era Contact Lens Spectrum 2016;31(6):Supplement

Ng AY. Ocular surface implications of cosmetic products Optometry Today 2016, January:

2014

Ng AY. Variations in tea tree oil concentrations Optician 2014;248, 6478: 11

Ng AY. Makeup and your eyes: friend or foe? ContactLensUpdate.com 2014

Ng AY. Summary: Report of the Definition and Classification Subcommittee ContactLensUpdate.com 2014

Ng AY, Bitton E, Jones L. Demodex infestation of the eyelashes Contact Lens Spectrum 2014;29, 12: 36-41

Books

2023

Jones L, Walsh K, Ng AY, Schulze M. Diagnostic Instruments In: Contact Lens Practice; 4th Ed. Elsevier, Oxford, UK. 2023.

2017

Jones L, Srinivasan S, Ng AY, Schulze M. Diagnostic Instruments In: Contact Lens Practice; 3rd Ed. Elsevier, Oxford, UK. 2017.