Archives: Core News

LVPEI and CORE Sign Partnership Agreement for Vision Science and Therapeutic Development

WATERLOO, CANADA, and HYDERABAD, INDIA, April 26, 2024—L.V. Prasad Eye Institute (LVPEI) and the Centre for Ocular Research & Education (CORE) at the University of Waterloo have entered into a strategic partnership to advance vision science research and therapeutic development, as well as to enhance eye care delivery on a global scale.

Structured as a memorandum of understanding, the agreement leverages the respective strengths of the two world-leading eye care and research institutions, aiming to foster a dynamic exchange of knowledge, resources, and technology. Dr. Amit Mathur, strategic global partnerships and digital innovation advisor to LVPEI and a University of Waterloo alumnus, initiated the collaboration.

Key focus areas include:

  • Joint research initiatives, encompassing collaborative research projects focused on cutting-edge solutions in vision science and eye health.
  • Therapeutic development, expediting the creation of new interventions to address some of the most challenging eye conditions affecting people worldwide.
  • Knowledge exchange and capacity building, facilitating cross-institutional sharing through joint seminars, workshops, and exchange programs for researchers and clinicians.
  • Innovation in eye care, exploring novel approaches to delivery mechanisms while harnessing the latest technology and research to improve patient outcomes.

Dr. Prashant Garg, executive chair at LVPEI, said, “Our agreement with CORE represents a significant milestone in the quest to push the boundaries of vision science and eye care. By combining our strengths, we are setting the stage for breakthroughs that could transform the landscape of eye health globally.”

Professor Lyndon Jones, director of CORE, added, “LVPEI is renowned for its dedication to excellence in eye care and research. Together, we are committed to unlocking new possibilities in vision science and therapeutic development for the benefit of patients worldwide.”

The memorandum of understanding was signed by LVPEI and CORE in late April, and both organizations are now establishing the joint operating models for the partnership.

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About L.V. Prasad Eye Institute (LVPEI)
Established in 1987, L.V. Prasad Eye Institute, a World Health Organization Collaborating Centre for Prevention of Blindness, is a comprehensive eye health facility. The institute has ten functional arms to its areas of operations: Clinical Services, Education, Research, Vision Rehabilitation, Rural and Community Eye Health, Eye Banking, Advocacy and Policy Planning, Capacity Building, Innovation, and Product Development. The LVPEI Eye Care Network has over 300 Centres in India, spread across Telangana, Andhra Pradesh, Odisha, and Karnataka. The institute’s mission is to provide equitable and quality eye care to all sections of society. The LVPEI’s five-tier ‘Eye Health Pyramid’ model, covering all areas of the community right from the villages to the city, provides high quality and comprehensive – prevention, curative, and rehabilitation – eye care to all. It has served over 36.89 million (3 crores 68 lakh people), with more than 50% entirely free of cost, irrespective of the complexity of care needed.

About the Centre for Ocular Research & Education (CORE)
The Centre for Ocular Research & Education (CORE) was established in 1988 at the University of Waterloo’s School of Optometry & Vision Science. Over the next three decades, the organization evolved from a three-person operation into a thriving hub of basic and applied research, collaborating with sponsors, agencies and academia on advanced biosciences, clinical research and education. Its uncompromising independence and results of the highest quality have been at the heart of many of the most prominent advances in eye health. Today, its approximately 50-person team serves a range of ophthalmic sectors, including medical devices, ocular pharmaceuticals, digital technology and others, with a focus on the anterior segment. For more information, please visit core.uwaterloo.ca.

MEDIA CONTACT
Lyndon Jones, Director, CORE
+1.519.888.4065 or lwjones@uwaterloo.ca

CORE Publication Helps Eye Care Professionals Prepare for a New Wave of Dry Eye Disease Medications

Recently Approved and Promising Pharmacological Treatments Spotlighted in Contact Lens Update Issue 77

WATERLOO, Ontario, April 17, 2024—In response to accelerating clinical interest about new, innovative treatments for dry eye disease, the Centre for Ocular Research & Education (CORE) has dedicated Issue 77 of Contact Lens Update to several recent introductions and promising pipeline developments. The publication is available at no charge by visiting ContactLensUpdate.com.

“Dry eye disease affects millions of people across the world and can have a significant impact on their lives. Our growing understanding of this complex condition has led to the development of multiple new medications—both approved for sale and undergoing trials—that we believe have important clinical potential,” said Alex Hui, Head of Biosciences at CORE.

“In primary eye care settings, dry eye is encountered daily. These additional treatments, targeting different aspects of the disease, will offer practitioners more options to incorporate into their prescribing arsenal and help patients better manage the condition.”

Hui, who is also an adjunct associate professor at the School of Optometry and Vision Science, UNSW Sydney, shares his expertise in the issue’s editorial. His overview covers recently approved treatments such as a short-term corticosteroid to treat acute periods of worsened dry eye, a preservative-free ophthalmic solution that slows tear evaporation,  and investigational products that either target inflammation or stimulate receptors on the ocular surface to increase the production of tears.

The feature article is authored by Etty Bitton, a professor and director of the Externship Program and Dry Eye Clinic, School of Optometry, University of Montreal. She summarizes the findings of a systematic review and meta-analysis that investigated the efficacy and safety of a novel nasal spray to manage dry eye. Her article provides an overview of how different doses can impact signs of dry eye and reviews observed ocular and non-ocular adverse events.

Quillan M. Austria, an ophthalmology resident at Weill Cornell Medical Center, New York Presbyterian Hospital, and Christopher Starr, an associate professor of ophthalmology and director of ophthalmic education at Weill Cornell Medical Center, co-author the issue’s clinical insight. The case report details a patient’s experience with dry eye and management with a recently approved ophthalmic solution to treat Demodex blepharitis. 

The conference highlight is contributed by Alison Ng, a lead clinical scientist at CORE, University of Waterloo. The abstract summarizes a presentation from the American Academy of Optometry 2023 annual meeting, detailing a phase two clinical trial that investigated the use of a new topical ointment to treat meibomian gland dysfunction. The work details changes in signs and symptoms over a three-month period of use.

Published six times per year, Contact Lens Update provides a global platform for unbiased clinical insights based in current research. Since 2011, each issue has provided dependable and up-to-date ocular health information for more than 60,000 leading eye care professionals.

In addition to a complete archive of back issues, ContactLensUpdate.com offers a resource library that provides no-cost professional tools, patient resources, images and video. It also houses complimentary technical training videos produced by International Association of Contact Lens Educators, plus an industry glossary. Industry professionals can access the latest issue directly from ContactLensUpdate.com or quickly sign up for email receipt of future issues.

The publication receives support from the educational arms of Alcon, CooperVision, and Johnson & Johnson Vision.

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About the Centre for Ocular Research & Education (CORE)
The Centre for Ocular Research & Education (CORE) was established in 1988 at the University of Waterloo’s School of Optometry & Vision Science. Over the next three decades, the organization evolved from a three-person operation into a thriving hub of basic and applied research, collaborating with sponsors, agencies and academia on advanced biosciences, clinical research and education. Its uncompromising independence and results of the highest quality have been at the heart of many of the most prominent advances in eye health. Today, its approximately 50-person team serves a range of ophthalmic sectors, including medical devices, ocular pharmaceuticals, digital technology and others, with a focus on the anterior segment. For more information, please visit core.uwaterloo.ca.

MEDIA CONTACT
Lyndon Jones, Director, CORE
+1.519.888.4065 or lwjones@uwaterloo.ca

Latest CORE Publication Offers Specialty Contact Lens and Myopia Management Insights for Practitioners

WATERLOO, Ontario, Feb 29, 2024—Advancements in and increased fitting of scleral and corneo-scleral lenses, plus resurgent interest surrounding orthokeratology for managing myopia control, sets the stage for Issue 76 of Contact Lens Update. Published by the Centre for Ocular Research & Education (CORE), the bi-monthly publication is available at no charge by visiting ContactLensUpdate.com.

“Specialty lenses play a vital role in addressing diverse visual needs and managing myopia. Keeping abreast of the latest research is essential for evidence-based practice, ensuring that patients receive optimal care aligned with current understanding,” said Daddi Fadel, DOptom, FSLS, FBCLA, FAAO, FIACLE, a clinical scientist at CORE and author of the issue’s opening editorial.

“By integrating insights from different fields and staying informed about emerging techniques and technologies, practitioners can achieve successful lens fittings that address immediate concerns and contribute to long-term ocular health preservation. Interdisciplinary collaboration further enhances the effectiveness of treatment plans, allowing for a comprehensive approach that considers various aspects of ocular health and—paramount to provide customized care that meets each patient’s unique needs.”

Dr. Fadel is a pioneer of modern lens designs, editor-in-chief of the Journal of Contact Lens Research & Science, and author of several peer-reviewed articles and books. Her editorial presents comprehensive highlights from the 2024 Global Specialty Lens Symposium (GSLS).  These include discussions on the inflammatory nature of contact lens wear, the Ed Bennett-Nathan Efron debate concerning the viability of rigid lenses, masterclasses and workshops on scleral lenses and myopia management, and emerging technologies presentations.

Sharon Qiu is a residency-trained optometrist pursuing a full-time Ph.D. in Vision Science at CORE while also serving as a part-time clinical supervisor for 4th-year optometry interns at the University of Waterloo Contact Lens and Myopia Control Clinic. She authors the feature article that explores techniques for practitioners to evaluate the performance of scleral lenses, and the instruments that are most suitable for this purpose.

Greg DeNaeyer, an optometrist at Arena Eye Surgeons in Delaware, Ohio, with an emphasis on specialty contact lenses and a contributor to several professional publications, shares his expertise in the form of a clinical insight. The article reviews three of the most common scleral lens fitting complications—poor wettability, midday fogging, and corneal edema—and suggests methods to enhance the process and performance, such as using modern materials, coatings, and alternative treatments.

The conference highlight is shared by David Hammond, a researcher specializing in myopia control at CooperVision’s Advanced Development Center in Pleasanton, Calif. His award-winning poster examined MiSight 1 day’s effectiveness in controlling myopia progression over six years, comparing progression between control and treatment cohorts, including a group whose treatment was initiated in year four. The study found that MiSight 1 day effectively controlled myopia progression, especially benefiting faster-progressing eyes, with consistent proportional treatment effects that contradict predictions of a random growth model.

In addition to a complete archive of back issues, ContactLensUpdate.com offers a resource library that provides no-cost professional tools, patient resources, images and video. It also houses complimentary technical training videos produced by International Association of Contact Lens Educators, plus an industry glossary. Industry professionals can access the latest issue directly from ContactLensUpdate.com or quickly sign up for email receipt of future issues.

The publication receives support from the educational arms of Alcon, CooperVision, and Johnson & Johnson Vision.

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About the Centre for Ocular Research & Education (CORE)
The Centre for Ocular Research & Education (CORE) was established in 1988 at the University of Waterloo’s School of Optometry & Vision Science. Over the next three decades, the organization evolved from a three-person operation into a thriving hub of basic and applied research, collaborating with sponsors, agencies and academia on advanced biosciences, clinical research and education. Its uncompromising independence and results of the highest quality have been at the heart of many of the most prominent advances in eye health. Today, its approximately 50-person team serves a range of ophthalmic sectors, including medical devices, ocular pharmaceuticals, digital technology and others, with a focus on the anterior segment. For more information, please visit core.uwaterloo.ca.

MEDIA CONTACTS
Lyndon Jones, Director, CORE
+1.519.888.4065 or lwjones@uwaterloo.ca

CORE Explores Presbyopia Pharmacological Treatments in New Publication

WATERLOO, Ontario, December 19, 2023—Even with recent advances, managing presbyopia still presents significant challenges for achieving perfect vision at all distances. The Centre for Ocular Research & Education (CORE) has focused Issue 75 of Contact Lens Update to exploring current and future pharmacological treatments, and how they compare to multifocal contact lenses. The independent, bi-monthly publication is available at no charge by visiting ContactLensUpdate.com.

“Understanding the treatment strategies for presbyopia is essential. Since there is no universally perfect solution, success lies in selecting and customizing the appropriate treatment for each individual patient,” said Daddi Fadel, DOptom, FSLS, FBCLA, FAAO, FIACLE, a clinical scientist at CORE. “Advancements in pharmacological treatments have led to various ophthalmic solutions, with additional options currently under investigation. Integrating therapeutics into the array of management strategies may provide practitioners and patients with broader choices for effective treatment.”

Optimal presbyopia management outcomes, with the goal of ensuring the best visual performance at all distances, hinge on understanding the advantages and limitations of each option in accordance with patient needs and ocular conditions. As pharmacological treatments progress, it remains crucial for eye care practitioners to incorporate these management strategies in their arsenal and remain abreast of the latest developments to offer personalized solutions.

Leading off the Diamond Jubilee issue are Dr. Elisabeth Van Aken, an ophthalmologist, retina specialist and assistant professor at Ghent University, Belgium, alongside Dr. Joris Delanghe, professor in Clinical Chemistry at Ghent University, Belgium and editor-in-chief of Clinica Chimica Acta.  Their opening editorial comprehensively reviews pharmacological treatments for presbyopia, providing a detailed summary of the current solutions available.

Dr. Selina McGee, founder of Precision Vision of Edmond and co-founder of Precision Vision of Midwest City, specializes in dry eye, contact lenses, and aesthetics, and holds an adjunct faculty position at Northeastern State University College of Optometry. Her feature article reviews existing therapeutic drops and those in clinical trials, evaluating their potential for significant improvements in near and intermediate vision.

Dr. Jacob Lang, chair of the Anterior Segment Section at the American Academy of Optometry and frequent ophthalmic publications contributor, is joined by Dr. Noa Robson, an ocular disease resident at Associated Eye Care in Stillwater, Minn. to author the issue’s clinical insight. Their case report underscores the importance of listening to each patient’s needs, consider the ocular surface, and explore diverse options to determine the optimal individualized treatment.

The conference highlight is presented by Dr. Shane Kannarr, a specialist in contact lenses, ocular disease treatment, and low vision. His featured poster evaluates reading performance and associated satisfaction in mild presbyopia treated with 1.25% pilocarpine hydrochloride ophthalmic solution. The findings indicate improved visual outcomes with the drug compared to the vehicle.

In addition to a complete archive of back issues, ContactLensUpdate.com offers a resource library that provides no-cost professional tools, patient resources, images and video. It also houses complimentary technical training videos produced by International Association of Contact Lens Educators, plus an industry glossary. Industry professionals can access the latest issue directly from ContactLensUpdate.com or quickly sign up for email receipt of future issues.

The publication receives support from the educational arms of Alcon, CooperVision, and Johnson & Johnson Vision.

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About the Centre for Ocular Research & Education (CORE)
The Centre for Ocular Research & Education (CORE) was established in 1988 at the University of Waterloo’s School of Optometry & Vision Science. Over the next three decades, the organization evolved from a three-person operation into a thriving hub of basic and applied research, collaborating with sponsors, agencies and academia on advanced biosciences, clinical research and education. Its uncompromising independence and results of the highest quality have been at the heart of many of the most prominent advances in eye health. Today, its approximately 50-person team serves a range of ophthalmic sectors, including medical devices, ocular pharmaceuticals, digital technology and others, with a focus on the anterior segment. For more information, please visit core.uwaterloo.ca.

MEDIA CONTACTS
Aimee J. Lewis or Mike McDougall, APR, Fellow PRSA, FAAO, McDougall Communications for CORE
aimee@mcdougallpr.com +1.585.414.9838  |  mike@mcdougallpr.com +1.585.545.1815

CORE Publishes Summaries of the Tear Film & Ocular Surface Society (TFOS) Lifestyle Reports to Promote Practitioner and Patient Knowledge

Contact Lens Update Issue 74 Now Available

WATERLOO, Ontario, November 7, 2023—In response to increased clinical interest regarding how lifestyle choices affect the ocular surface, the Centre for Ocular Research & Education (CORE) has published a resource collection to promote greater understanding among the global eye care community and their patients. Issue 74 of Contact Lens Update expands on the Tear Film & Ocular Surface Society (TFOS) Lifestyle Reports that were published earlier this year. The issue is available at no charge by visiting ContactLensUpdate.com.

“Multiple factors may affect the patient sitting in front of you. The World Health Organization has recognized that eye problems can be a result of our lifestyle choices,” said Lyndon Jones, director of CORE and a member of the TFOS Board of Directors. “The TFOS Lifestyle Workshop was created to address how different aspects of our modern lifestyles can affect the health of the ocular surface. The broad range of reports address topics including the impact of contact lenses, the type of eye makeup they are wearing, to the state of their mental health. Our work to increase practitioner awareness of these issues will improve patients’ lives.”

The TFOS Lifestyle Reports also provides information on digital eye strain and digital device use, and discusses how food, beverages, and elective procedures can affect the integrity of the ocular surface. Information in Contact Lens Issue 74 enables both practitioners and patients to increase their knowledge of how different aspects of life impact the ocular surface, and provides insights on modifications that can improve the overall quality of life.

Jennifer Craig, professor at the University of Auckland and Chair of the TFOS Lifestyle Workshop, provides an introduction to the reports in the issue’s editorial. Her overview summarizes some of the key clinical findings from the eight topic reports, which span contact lenses, cosmetics, the digital environment, elective medications and procedures, environmental conditions, lifestyle challenges, nutrition, and societal challenges. The summary helps practitioners narrow down important points of discussion  that could be affecting the health of their patient’s ocular surface. 

The feature article features a series of eight informative infographics that condense the TFOS findings into an easily accessible visual format. This provides eye care practitioners with a synopsis of the important findings from each report, before they delve into the full details found within the comprehensive reports.

This issue’s clinical insight is a two-page patient handout that provides take-home messages from each of the TFOS Lifestyle Reports. This serves as a way for practitioners to open the conversation into how lifestyle impacts our eyes, and empowers patients to take a proactive role in managing the health of their ocular surface.

Himal Kandel, a Kornhauser Research Fellow at the Save Sight Institute, The University of Sydney, contributes the conference highlight. First presented as a  poster at the Association for Research in Vision and Ophthalmology 2023 annual meeting, his study describes use of an international registry to examine factors that affect the quality of life in people with different types of dry eye disease and corneal neuropathic pain. 

Published six times per year, Contact Lens Update provides a global platform for unbiased clinical insights based in current research. Since 2011, each issue has provided dependable and up-to-date ocular health information for more than 60,000 leading eye care professionals.

In addition to a complete archive of back issues, ContactLensUpdate.com offers a resource library that provides no-cost professional tools, patient resources, images and video. It also houses complimentary technical training videos produced by International Association of Contact Lens Educators, plus an industry glossary. Industry professionals can access the latest issue directly from ContactLensUpdate.com or quickly sign up for email receipt of future issues.

The publication receives support from the educational arms of Alcon, CooperVision, and Johnson & Johnson Vision.

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About the Centre for Ocular Research & Education (CORE)
The Centre for Ocular Research & Education (CORE) was established in 1988 at the University of Waterloo’s School of Optometry & Vision Science. Over the next three decades, the organization evolved from a three-person operation into a thriving hub of basic and applied research, collaborating with sponsors, agencies and academia on advanced biosciences, clinical research and education. Its uncompromising independence and results of the highest quality have been at the heart of many of the most prominent advances in eye health. Today, its approximately 50-person team serves a range of ophthalmic sectors, including medical devices, ocular pharmaceuticals, digital technology and others, with a focus on the anterior segment. For more information, please visit core.uwaterloo.ca.

MEDIA CONTACTS
Aimee J. Lewis or Mike McDougall, APR, Fellow PRSA, FAAO, McDougall Communications for CORE
aimee@mcdougallpr.com +1.585.414.9838  |  mike@mcdougallpr.com +1.585.545.1815

CORE Publishes Contact Lens Sustainability Infographics Series in 25 Diverse Languages

Effort Follows Widespread Global Response to English-Only Versions

WATERLOO, ONTARIO, October 31, 2023—The Centre for Ocular Research & Education (CORE) has published a series of infographics in 25 diverse languages that encourage responsible contact lens recycling and disposal. The initiative resulted from widespread positive feedback about four English-only versions released earlier this year.

The series is now available for download and use by the global eye care community at ContactLensRecycling.com

Languages now include Afrikaans, Arabic, Croatian, Danish, Dutch, English, Finnish, French, German, Greek, Hindi, Indonesian, Italian, Japanese, Malay, Norwegian, Persian, Polish, Portuguese, Russian, Serbian, Slovak, Spanish, Swedish, and Vietnamese. CORE plans to distribute additional languages over the coming months.

The four separate designs are intended for professional and consumer educational purposes, as sustainable practices and programs are becoming more established within the contact lens sector. One infographic helps communicate with wearers about relative impact, putting contact lens-related waste into context with other common products and lifestyle habits. Two others explain the best routes for ideal contact lens disposal, while a fourth reminds wearers not to place their contacts into wastewater systems. These can be provided to patients directly as printed resources, sent via email or text, or used on social media and practice websites to make consumers aware of available options.

“Several contact lens manufacturers have demonstrated sustainability commitments by preventing waste and inspiring reuse, recycling, recovery, and responsible disposal. Helping patients grasp that they can enjoy their contacts while remaining environmentally responsible is something we should all be reinforcing,” said Daddi Fadel, DOptom, clinical scientist with CORE and the coordinator of the translation initiative.

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About the Centre for Ocular Research & Education (CORE)
The Centre for Ocular Research & Education (CORE) was established in 1988 at the University of Waterloo’s School of Optometry & Vision Science. Over the next three decades, the organization evolved from a three-person operation into a thriving hub of basic and applied research, collaborating with sponsors, agencies and academia on advanced biosciences, clinical research and education. Its uncompromising independence and results of the highest quality have been at the heart of many of the most prominent advances in eye health. Today, its approximately 50-person team serves a range of ophthalmic sectors, including medical devices, ocular pharmaceuticals, digital technology and others, with a focus on the anterior segment. For more information, please visit core.uwaterloo.ca.

MEDIA CONTACTS:
Aimee J. Lewis or Mike McDougall, APR, Fellow PRSA, FAAO, McDougall Communications for CORE
aimee@mcdougallpr.com +1.585.414.9838  |  mike@mcdougallpr.com +1.585.545.1815

CORE Announces Broadest Ever Scientific Program for American Academy of Optometry ‘23

WATERLOO, ONTARIO, October 6, 2023—The Centre for Ocular Research & Education (CORE) has announced a multifaceted series of scientific presentations, lectures, and posters for the American Academy of Optometry 2023 Annual Meeting, scheduled from October 11-14. The diverse lineup represents the breadth of the organization’s expertise and impact across the optometric world, which has accelerated during the past several years.

Among CORE’s offerings are sessions on tear film stability, Meibomian Gland Dysfunction and dry eye, sustained drug delivery devices for the eye, presbyopia-correcting multifocal contact lens fitting, a new tool to assist orthokeratology fit success, and the impact of myopia control lenses on vision.

“Our work has evolved to consistently span a broad range of clinically relevant pharmaceuticals, devices, and practices, and we’re privileged to share some of our latest findings and insights during Academy ‘23. After thirty-five years—including the last six under the CORE brand—our industry collaborations continue to grow, with more innovation ahead,” said Lyndon Jones, PhD, DSc, FCOptom, FAAO, the director of CORE.

Six CORE scientists will be featured in eight different talks in New Orleans:

The CORE rebrand was announced at Academy 2018 in Chicago, conceived to illustrate the organization’s substantial expansion from its early roots in contact lens clinical studies. In celebration of its six years under the new name, CORE plans to release several infographics that spotlight various projects, publications, education, people, and more in the coming weeks.

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About the Centre for Ocular Research & Education (CORE)
The Centre for Ocular Research & Education (CORE) was established in 1988 at the University of Waterloo’s School of Optometry & Vision Science. Over the next three decades, the organization evolved from a three-person operation into a thriving hub of basic and applied research, collaborating with sponsors, agencies and academia on advanced biosciences, clinical research and education. Its uncompromising independence and results of the highest quality have been at the heart of many of the most prominent advances in eye health. Today, its approximately 50-person team serves a range of ophthalmic sectors, including medical devices, ocular pharmaceuticals, digital technology and others, with a focus on the anterior segment. For more information, please visit core.uwaterloo.ca.

MEDIA CONTACTS:
Aimee J. Lewis or Mike McDougall, APR, Fellow PRSA, McDougall Communications for CORE
aimee@mcdougallpr.com +1.585.414.9838  |  mike@mcdougallpr.com +1.585.545.1815

CORE’s Lyndon Jones to Headline Global Contact Lens Forum at Vision Expo West 2023

WATERLOO, ONTARIO, September 18, 2023—One of the eye care profession’s most in-demand speakers will headline the Vision Expo West 2023 Global Contact Lens Forum, which is scheduled for Wednesday, September 27 in Las Vegas. For the first time, Centre for Ocular Research & Education (CORE) Director Lyndon Jones joins the event’s faculty, sharing insights alongside peers Melissa Barnett, Jason Compton, Janelle Davison, and Sheila Morrison.

The Forum ‘meeting within a meeting’ design—which runs from 8:30 am to 3:15 pm—is structured to provide practical, timely clinical and business processes tips for any professional that recommends, fits, or prescribes contact lenses. Topics include new products and technologies, ‘leveling up’ practice management pearls, and the good, bad, and ugly of myopia control. Participants can earn up to four hours of continuing education (CE) credits at no additional cost.

Dr. Jones will also join Dr. Barnett, Dr. Compton, and Dr. Shalu Pal the following day for “The Greatest Contact Lens Course Ever.” The two-hour session promises a series of rapid-paced presentations, including drug delivery, myopia management and scleral lenses, to expand attendees’ contact lens knowledge and patient interactions.

Vision Expo West pre-registration for educational courses is required at west.visionexpo.com.

Dr. Jones has delivered more than 1,000 invited lectures at conferences in more than 40 countries, has authored over 400 refereed and professional papers, and is rated among the top 10 optometry researchers worldwide by OptomRankings.com. He most recently was a featured speaker at the 4th World Congress of Optometry / O=MEGA23 conference in Melbourne, Australia.

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About the Centre for Ocular Research & Education (CORE)
The Centre for Ocular Research & Education (CORE) was established in 1988 at the University of Waterloo’s School of Optometry & Vision Science. Over the next three decades, the organization evolved from a three-person operation into a thriving hub of basic and applied research, collaborating with sponsors, agencies and academia on advanced biosciences, clinical research and education. Its uncompromising independence and results of the highest quality have been at the heart of many of the most prominent advances in eye health. Today, its approximately 50-person team serves a range of ophthalmic sectors, including medical devices, ocular pharmaceuticals, digital technology and others, with a focus on the anterior segment. For more information, please visit core.uwaterloo.ca.

MEDIA CONTACTS:
Aimee J. Lewis or Mike McDougall, APR, Fellow PRSA, McDougall Communications for CORE
aimee@mcdougallpr.com +1.585.414.9838  |  mike@mcdougallpr.com +1.585.545.1815

CORE Strengthens Biosciences Research Team and Promotes Three Scientists

WATERLOO, ONTARIO, August 31, 2023—The Centre for Ocular Research & Education (CORE) has added a post-doctoral fellow to its Biosciences research team, as well as promoted three scientists to leadership roles.

Haile Darge, Ph.D., has joined CORE as a post-doctoral fellow focused on developing biomaterials for ocular drug delivery and in vitro eye models using 3D printing technology. He earned an MSc in medicinal physiology from Addis Ababa University, School of Medicine and a Ph.D. from National Taiwan University of Science and Technology (Taiwan Tech). His previous research explored the preparation of polymeric biomaterials for controlled drug delivery in cancer treatment, wound dressing and 3D cell culturing. He has authored more than two dozen peer-reviewed research articles in drug delivery for cancer treatment.

Deborah Jones, B.Sc., FCOptom FAAO, FBCLA, has been promoted to lead clinical scientist at CORE. Jones is also clinical professor at the School of Optometry and Vision Science, University of Waterloo. Her primary clinical focus is on pediatric optometry and her main area of research is in myopia control. She graduated from City University, London, and is a Fellow of the British College of Optometrists. She holds a UK Diplomate in Contact Lens Practice and is also a Fellow of the American Academy of Optometry and the British Contact Lens Association.

Amir Moezzi, B.Sc., Ph.D., FAAO, has been promoted to lead clinical scientist at CORE, researching ocular physiological responses to contact lens wear. He earned a B.Sc. in optometry in Iran, where he practiced optometry and worked as an instructor. He went on to work in the field of technical management for ophthalmic lens processing after training at LOH Optikmaschinen Germany. Moezzi completed his MSc in 1999 and later completed a Ph.D. in Vision Science both at the University of Waterloo. Moezzi is a registered member of the College of Optometrists of Ontario, a member of the Ontario Association of Optometrists, and a Fellow of the American Academy of Optometry.

Alison Ng, B.Sc.Ph.D., MCOptom, FAAO, has been promoted to lead clinical scientist at CORE. She is also an adjunct associate professor at the School of Optometry and Vision Science, University of Waterloo.  Her research interests including the ocular surface response to environmental factors, contact lenses, cosmetics, dry eye disease, nutrition, and corneal neuropathic pain. She joined CORE as a post-doctoral fellow in 2014. Previously, she was a practicing optometrist in the UK and earned a Ph.D. at Cardiff University. Ng serves as a TFOS Global Ambassador for Canada and is a Fellow of the American Academy of Optometry.

“CORE’s capacity to serve a range of sponsors and collaborators continues to grow with more robust needs for biosciences, clinical study, and professional education expertise from the ophthalmology, optometry, vision science, and related communities,” said Lyndon Jones, CORE’s director. “We are incredibly fortunate to work alongside so many talented people, including Haile, Debbie, Amir, and Alison. Congratulations to each of them in their new roles.”

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About the Centre for Ocular Research & Education (CORE)
The Centre for Ocular Research & Education (CORE) was established in 1988 at the University of Waterloo’s School of Optometry & Vision Science. Over the next three decades, the organization evolved from a three-person operation into a thriving hub of basic and applied research, collaborating with sponsors, agencies and academia on advanced biosciences, clinical research and education. Its uncompromising independence and results of the highest quality have been at the heart of many of the most prominent advances in eye health. Today, its approximately 50-person team serves a range of ophthalmic sectors, including medical devices, ocular pharmaceuticals, digital technology and others, with a focus on the anterior segment. For more information, please visit core.uwaterloo.ca.

MEDIA CONTACTS:
Aimee J. Lewis or Mike McDougall, APR, Fellow PRSA, McDougall Communications for CORE
aimee@mcdougallpr.com +1.585.414.9838  |  mike@mcdougallpr.com +1.585.545.1815

CORE Publishes Guidance on Ocular Surface Immunology for Better Patient Care

Contact Lens Update Issue 73 Now Available

WATERLOO, Ontario, August 21, 2023—In response to increased clinical interest regarding ocular surface immunology, the Centre for Ocular Research & Education (CORE) has published a collection of resources to create a greater understanding among the global eye care community. Issue 73 of Contact Lens Update focuses on the topic and is available at no charge by visiting ContactLensUpdate.com.

“The ocular surface forms the main line of defence in protecting the eye against external pathogens and has a crucial inflammation-regulating role. Inflammatory eye conditions disrupt the homeostasis of the immune system and can result in reduced quality of life or permanent sight loss,” said Lyndon Jones, director of CORE. “Increased awareness of the pathophysiology, early diagnosis, and effective management of ocular surface disease can benefit practitioners and patients alike.”

In primary eye care settings, immunological conditions that impact the ocular surface are routinely observed in people suffering from allergic conjunctivitis, dry eye, Sjögren’s syndrome, and rheumatoid arthritis. As knowledge of ocular surface immunology continues to evolve, eye care practitioners who are familiar with the latest research and treatment options can offer a higher standard of care.

Sezen Karakus, assistant professor at the Wilmer Eye Institute, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, shares her expertise in the issue’s editorial. Her comprehensive review explains key components involved in protecting the ocular surface, and details changes that occur in commonly encountered diseases, including immune and autoimmune conditions. She provides an overview of current research and discusses areas that may soon become part of a clinician’s treatment arsenal. 

The feature article is authored by Jeremy Chung Bo Chiang, a postdoctoral research associate at Aston University. He succinctly presents the four stages underlying the immunopathogensis of dry eye disease, followed by valuable information about current topical ophthalmic treatments, their mechanisms of action, and clinical tips.

Barbara Caffery, an optometrist at Toronto Eye Care and former president of the American Academy of Optometry, shares her knowledge in the issue’s clinical insight column. The case report details a patient’s journey through an initial examination, dry eye diagnosis, and management. She then poses important questions that can help identify people who may have Sjögren’s syndrome and delves into additional tests required for diagnosis.

The conference highlight is contributed by Elyana Locatelli, a pre-medical student and research fellow at the Bascom Palmer Eye Institute, University of Miami. Based on her poster that was presented at the Association for Research in Vision and Ophthalmology 2023 annual meeting, the retrospective study examines the subjective preference of cyclosporine compared to lifitegrast in patients with dry eye, and investigates whether any patient factors were associated with medication choice.

Published six times per year, Contact Lens Update provides a global platform for unbiased clinical insights based in current research. Since 2011, each issue has provided dependable and up-to-date ocular health information for more than 60,000 leading eye care professionals.

In addition to a complete archive of back issues, ContactLensUpdate.com offers a resource library that provides no-cost professional tools, patient resources, images and video. It also houses complimentary technical training videos produced by International Association of Contact Lens Educators, plus an industry glossary. Industry professionals can access the latest issue directly from ContactLensUpdate.com or quickly sign up for email receipt of future issues.

The publication receives support from the educational arms of Alcon, CooperVision, and Johnson & Johnson Vision.

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About the Centre for Ocular Research & Education (CORE)

The Centre for Ocular Research & Education (CORE) was established in 1988 at the University of Waterloo’s School of Optometry & Vision Science. Over the next three decades, the organization evolved from a three-person operation into a thriving hub of basic and applied research, collaborating with sponsors, agencies and academia on advanced biosciences, clinical research and education. Its uncompromising independence and results of the highest quality have been at the heart of many of the most prominent advances in eye health. Today, its approximately 50-person team serves a range of ophthalmic sectors, including medical devices, ocular pharmaceuticals, digital technology and others, with a focus on the anterior segment. For more information, please visit core.uwaterloo.ca.

MEDIA CONTACTS
Aimee J. Lewis or Mike McDougall, APR, Fellow PRSA, FAAO, McDougall Communications for CORE
aimee@mcdougallpr.com +1.585.414.9838  |  mike@mcdougallpr.com +1.585.545.1815