Situ,P., Simpson,T. L., Jones,L. W., Fonn,D. Effects of silicone hydrogel contact lens wear on ocular surface sensitivity to tactile, pneumatic mechanical, and chemical stimulation Investigative Ophthalmology and Visual Science 2010;51(12):6111-6117 [ Show Abstract ]

PURPOSE. To determine the effects of silicone hydrogel lens wear and lens-solution interactions on ocular surface sensitivity. METHODS. Forty-eight adapted lens wearers completed the study, which comprised two phases. Phase 1 included habitual lens wear, no lens wear (7 ± 3 days), and balafilcon A lenses (PV; PureVision; Bausch & Lomb, Rochester, NY) with a hydrogen peroxide-based regimen for 2 weeks; phase 2 included wear of PV with the use of a multipurpose solution containing either polyhexamethylene-biguanide (PHMB) or Polyquad/Aldox (Alcon Laboratories, Fort Worth, TX) preservative, each for 1 week, with a 2-week washout period between solutions. Tactile and pneumatic (mechanical and chemical) stimuli were delivered, and thresholds were determined by Cochet-Bonnet (Luneau Ophthalmologie, Chartres, France) and Belmonte (Cooperative Research Centre for Eye Research and Technology, Sydney, NSW, Australia) pneumatic esthesiometers, respectively. Corneal and conjunctival thresholds and staining scores were assessed at baseline, after 2 and 8 hours of lens wear on day 1 and at the end of each wearing cycle (2 hours). RESULTS. In phase 1, compared to the no-lens baseline, corneal tactile thresholds increased at the 1-day, 8-hour and the 2-week visits (P < 0.05), whereas conjunctival mechanical thresholds decreased at the 1-day, 2-hour and the 2-week visits (P < 0.05). In phase 2, the chemical thresholds were lower with PHMBpreserved solution compared with the Polyquad/Aldox system at the 1-day, 2-hour and the 1-week visits (P < 0.05). Staining scores correlated inversely with conjunctival chemical thresholds (all P < 0.05). CONCLUSIONS. Ocular surface sensitivity changed in adapted lens wearers, when lenses were refit after a no-lens interval and during lens wear with different care regimens. The corneal staining that was observed with certain lens-solution combinations was accompanied by sensory alteration of the ocular surface-that is, higher levels of staining correlated with increased conjunctival chemical sensitivity. © Association for Research in Vision and Ophthalmology.

Sivak,J. G., Herbert,K. L., Fonn,D. In vitro ocular irritancy measure of four contact lens solutions: Damage and recovery CLAO Journal 1995;21(3):169-174 [ Show Abstract ]

We measured the potential toxicity of four contact lens solutions using an in vitro approach in which the optical quality of the cultured bovine lens was measured as a function of exposure to each substance tested. This approach uses an automated scanning laser to measure the focal variability of lenses contained in special culture cells and maintained under long-term culture conditions. The products tested included three rigid gas permeable contact lens conditioning solutions (Boston Conditioning Solution(TM), Boston Advance Conditioning Solution(TM), and a new formulation of Boston Advance Conditioning Solution(TM) [Polymer Technology]) and one soft contact lens disinfecting system (OptimEyes(TM); Core Technologies). The results indicate a wide range of toxicologic potential that corresponds, on a relative basis, with published in vivo evaluation of the same substances. Moreover, the results demonstrate that this in vitro system can be used to evaluate the potential for recovery from damage caused by the four solutions tested.

Skaff,A., Cullen,A. P., Doughty,M. J., Fonn,D. Corneal swelling and recovery following wear of thick hydrogel contact lenses in insulin-dependent diabetics Ophthalmic and Physiological Optics 1995;15(4):287-297 [ Show Abstract ]

Thick, 0.34 mm, 38% water hydrogel lenses were fitted, under a pressure patch, to one eye of 18 type I diabetic patients (aged 18-40 years) to assess the acute response to hypoxia and hypercapnia; the response was compared with that in 18 healthy, aged-matched nondiabetic subjects; the closed-eye lens wear was started mid-morning. Pre-lens wear assessments were made of acuity, intraocular pressure (IOP), central corneal thickness (CCT) and corneal appearance by biomicroscopy. The mean duration of the diabetes was 13±7 years and the Baseline CCT values were marginally greater in diabetic patients (600±33μm) compared with a group of non-diabetic control subjects (584±26μm; P>0.5). A 7.7±2.1% increase in CCT was measured after 3h lens wear in the diabetic patients while an average 10.6±2.4% increase in CCT was measured in the control subjects (P<0.05). The recovery of corneal thickness to baseline values in diabetic patients was slower (at 44.8±2.0% per hour) than the control subjects (53.9±2.1 per hour; P<0.05) although recovery of corneal thickness occurred in both groups within 2.5-3h, IOP values (non-contact tonometry) were higher in the diabetic patients than in the controls (14.5±2.9 vs 12.4±1.7mmHg; P<0.01). Overall, those corneas with greater baseline CCT values tended to swell less than those with lower baseline CCT values (r = 0.582). Positive correlations were also found between corneal thickness and IOP and blood glucose. The diabetic patients thus tended to have slightly thicker corneas (but this could be related to blood glucose or IOP rather than true corneal disease) and also had corneas that tended to swell less with a contact lens stress test (but this could be constitutively due to the slight oedema already present). The different corneal response in diabetic patients may thus be the result of physical determinants such as initial oedema and IOP and not the result of a disease of the cornea itself.

Sorbara,L., Chong,T., Fonn,D. Visual acuity, lens flexure, and residual astigmatism of keratoconic eyes as a function of back optic zone radius of rigid lenses Contact Lens and Anterior Eye 2000;23(2):48-52 [ Show Abstract ]

The purpose of this study was to determine whether the visual acuity of keratoconic eyes was affected by alteration of back optic zone radii (BOZRs) of rigid gas permeable lenses (RGP) contact lenses. Visual acuity, spherical and sphero-cylindrical over-refraction and keratometry of the front surface of the RGP lenses of nine keratoconic eyes were measured. The BOZR of the five lenses varied from steeper to flatter than that habitually worn by the subjects. The steepest lenses produced significantly greater lens flexure and residual astigmatism (P<0.002) and worse high and low contrast visual acuity with the spherical over-refraction (P<0.05). There was no statistical difference in visual acuity across the range of BOZR when a sphero-cylindrical over-refraction was applied. Thus reduced visual acuity in keratoconus with steep lenses is likely due to uncorrected residual astigmatism from a combination of several possible sources. © 2000 British Contact Lens Association.

Sorbara,L., Dalton,K. The use of video-keratoscopy in predicting contact lens parameters for keratoconic fitting Contact Lens and Anterior Eye 2010;33(3):112-118

Sorbara,L., Fonn,D., Holden,B. A., Wong,R. Centrally fitted versus upper lid-attached rigid gas permeable lenses. Part I. Design parameters affecting vertical decentration International Contact Lens Clinic 1996;23(3):99-104 [ Show Abstract ]

The purpose of this study was to develop rigid gas permeable lens designs that would facilitate upper lid attachment and central (interpalpebral) positions. A pilot study was conducted with trial lenses of varying back surface designs and axial edge lifts (AELs) with and without lenticulated front surface designs. From this study, the final upper lid attachment lens was designed to have high AELs (150–300 mm) and a minus carrier lenticulation. The centered lenses had an AEL of 110 mm, with thin edges. Forty-one neophyte subjects were fitted with these two designs to be worn contralaterally for an 8-month period during which the consistency of the lens position was examined. We were unable to achieve upper lid attachment on 6 subjects, and a further 10 were discontinued for other reasons. Of the remaining 25 subjects who completed the study, 80% had consistent upper lid attachment in the one eye and a centered lens in the other, over the eight visits. The balance of the subjects demonstrated correct lens positioning for at least 50% of the visits. The lens design factors that correlated with vertical decentration of the lenses were AEL (r = 0.614), edge thickness (r = 0.751), and front surface carrier radius (r = 0.654).

Sorbara,L., Fonn,D., MacNeill,K. Effect of rigid gas permeable lens flexure on vision Optometry and Vision Science 1992;69(12):953-958 [ Show Abstract ]

The flexure of spherical rigid lenses (various materials) and a soft lens was measured using automated over-keratometry on 6 adapted rigid lens wearers (12 eyes) whose corneal toricity ranged from 1.37 to 3.87 D. The results showed: (1) that there was no significant difference in flexure between polymethyl methacrylate (PMMA), silicone acrylate, and the fluorosilicone acrylate lenses (whose Dks ranged from 0 to 115). However, Advent (fluoropolymer) did flex significantly more than the other rigid lenses, and significantly less than the soft lens (Bausch & Lomb U4) and (2) that lens flexure of the rigid lenses did not alter over a 2-h period. We also measured high and low contrast visual acuity (HCVA and LCVA), and the results from subjects wearing Advent and the soft lens were significantly worse than with the other rigid lenses. Finally, the results of this study showed no correlation between rigid lens flexure and permeability and between rigid lens flexure and visual acuity when Advent was excluded from the linear regression analysis.

Sorbara,L., Fonn,D., Simpson,T., Lu,F., Kort,R. Reduction of myopia from corneal refractive therapy Optometry and Vision Science 2005;82(6):512-518 [ Show Abstract ]

Purpose. The purpose of the study was to monitor the efficacy of corneal refractive therapy (CRT) lenses to reduce myopia over a 4-week period. Refractive error, keratometry, high and low contrast acuity, and subjective vision after 28 days of using CRT contact lenses were measured. Methods. Twenty-three myopes wore CRT HDS lenses, Dk = 100. The Nikon autokefractor/keratometer was used to measure the refractive error and keratometric changes. Visual acuity was measured using computerized high and low contrast charts and the subjects completed visual analog scales characterizing their vision on a daily basis. Measurements were performed at baseline (before lens insertion before sleep), immediately after lens removal the next morning and at 1, 3, 7, and 14 hours after eye opening. Measurements were made on the days following 1, 4, 10, and 28 nights of lens wear. After 72 hours of no lens wear, these parameters were again measured to assess corneal recovery. Results. The pretreatment manifest refraction (mean of OD and OS ± standard deviation [SD]) was -2.72 DS ± 1.06 and -0.55 DC ± 0.40. Myopic spherical equivalent refractive error (± SD) decreased by 1.30 DS ± 0.53 (range 0-3 D) immediately after lens removal on day 1 and by 2.59 DS ± 0.77 by day 28 (range 1.25-3.88 D). The cylinder remained unchanged. Uncorrected visual acuity improved by 5 lines after one night and reached 0.00 LogMAR (6/6) by day 4. Visual acuity was maintained throughout the day by day 10. The day and time effect of the spherical equivalent change and the central corneal radius of curvature were statistically significant (p < 0.01) up to day 10 and remained the same until day 28. Central (autokeratometer) Ks flattened by 1.28 D ± 1.35 after one night and 2.33 D ± 1.30 by day 28. The subjective vision improved significantly from day 1 to day 28 (p < 0.01) and was maintained throughout the day from day 4 to day 28 (p < 0.01). All measures did not recover completely to baseline after 72 hours of no lens wear. Conclusions. CRT lenses significantly reduced myopia, improved visual acuity and subjective vision, and flattened central corneal curvature. Maximal effect was achieved after 10 days and was maintained for the rest of the study period. Copyright © 2005 American Academy of Optometry.

Sorbara,L., Jones,L., Williams-Lyn,D. Contact lens induced papillary conjunctivitis with silicone hydrogel lenses Contact Lens and Anterior Eye 2009;32(2):93-96 [ Show Abstract ]

PURPOSE: To describe the refitting of a soft lens wearer into a silicone hydrogel lens due to neovascularization. This change, in turn, caused contact lens induced papillary conjunctivitis (CLPC) and a further refitting was necessary. METHODS: The patient was refit into a high Dk surface treated silicone hydrogel with a high modulus value. A second refitting was undertaken into a lower Dk silicone hydrogel contact lens with a lower modulus value which had no surface treatment but incorporated an internal wetting agent. RESULTS: A high Dk/t lens was used to resolve existing neovascularization and chronic hyperaemia. Subsequently, CLPC response occurred, possibly due to a combination of factors, resulting in irritation of the palpebral conjunctiva. This resulted in temporary lens discontinuation. A second silicone hydrogel lens was fit, along with the use of a non-preserved care system, which led to improvement and eventual resolution of the condition. CONCLUSION: High Dk silicone hydrogel lenses have shown excellent efficacy in resolving hypoxic complications such as neovascularization and hyperaemia. However, attention needs to be paid to their potential effect on the upper tarsal plate. More than one silicone hydrogel lens may be needed to help resolve these issues.

Sorbara,L., Maram,J., Bizheva,K., Hutchings,N., Simpson,T. L. Case report: Chalazion and its features visualized by ultrahigh resolution optical coherence tomography Contact Lens and Anterior Eye 2011;34(2):87-91

Sorbara,L., Maram,J., Fonn,D., Woods,C., Simpson,T. Metrics of the normal cornea: Anterior segment imaging with the Visante OCT Clinical and Experimental Optometry 2010;93(3):150-156 [ Show Abstract ]

Purpose: The purpose of the study was to obtain anterior segment biometry for 40 normal eyes and to measure variables that may be useful to design large diameter gas permeable contact lenses that sit outside the region normally viewed by corneal topographers. Also, the distribution of these variables in the normal eye and how well they correlated to each other were determined. Methods: This is a cross-sectional study, in which data were collected at a single study visit. Corneal topography and imaging of the anterior segment of the eye were performed using the Orbscan II and Visante OCT. The variables that were collected were horizontal K reading, central corneal/scleral sagittal depth at 15 mm chord, and nasal and temporal angles at the 15 mm chord using the built-in software measurement tools. Results: The central horizontal K readings for the 40 eyes were 43 ± 1.73 D (7.85 ± 0.31 mm), with ± 95% confidence interval (CI) of 38.7 (8.7 mm) and 46.6 D (7.24 mm). The mean corneal/scleral sagittal depth at the 15 mm chord was 3.74 ± 0.19 mm and the range was 3.14 to 4.04 mm. The average nasal angle (which was not different from the temporal angle) at the 15 mm chord was 39.32 ± 3.07 degrees and the ± 95%CI was 33.7 and 45.5 degrees. The correlation coefficient comparing the K reading and the corneal/scleral sagittal depth showed the best correlation (0.58, p < 0.001). The corneal/scleral sagittal depth at 15 mm correlated less with the nasal angle (0.44, p = 0.004) and the weakest correlation was for the nasal angle at 15 mm with the horizontal readings (0.32, p = 0.046). Conclusion: The Visante OCT is a valuable tool for imaging the anterior segment of the eye. The Visante OCT is especially effective in providing the biometry of the peripheral cornea and sclera and may help in fitting GP lenses with a higher percentage of initial lens success, when the corneal sag and lens sag are better matched. © 2010 The Authors. Journal compilation © 2010 Optometrists Association Australia.

Sorbara,L., Peterson,R., Woods,C., Fonn,D. Multipurpose disinfecting solutions and their interactions with a silicone hydrogel lens Eye and Contact Lens 2009;35(2):92-97 [ Show Abstract ]

PURPOSE:: To assess the compatibility of a new silicone hydrogel lens, asmofilcon A (with four multipurpose disinfecting solutions: OPTIFREE RepleniSH, ReNu MultiPlus, Solo-Care Aqua and MeniCare Soft). Ocular responses and subjective responses were monitored with each lens-care system combination. METHODS:: The study was conducted as a prospective, bilateral, clinical trial with a single-masked investigator, and randomized cross-over design with four phases, (one for each care system). Each study phase comprised of two consecutive days of lens wear where the lenses were inserted on day 1 directly from the blister-packs and worn for over 8 hr, then inserted on day 2 after overnight disinfection with one of the study lens care systems. Twenty-five adapted soft contact lens wearers who were able to wear their habitual lenses comfortably for more than 12 hr were recruited. RESULTS:: There were statistically significant differences in corneal staining found for all the lens-care systems when comparing the results of day 1 (from the blister pack) with day 2 (following care system use) (P < 0.05). ReNu MultiPlus solution had the highest grade for corneal staining at the 2-hr time point on day 2 which then decreased by 6 hr (P < 0.05). There was no difference between the lens care systems and the rating of subjective comfort over either of the two days. The rating of dryness and burning sensations were only slightly increased at 6 hr for all lens care systems except ReNu MultiPlus where burning was highest on insertion (P < 0.05). CONCLUSION:: Corneal staining observed in this study does not seem to have been related to the presence of polyhexamethylene biguanide (0.0001% wv) that was present in three of the four care systems. Only one care system (ReNu MultiPlus) demonstrated an associated level of corneal staining that was statistically significant; however, this was not considered to be of clinical relevance. These results suggest that using this novel surface-treated silicone hydrogel lens may result in less lens and lens care-related interactions. © 2009 Lippincott Williams & Wilkins.

Sorbara,L., Richter,D., Chong,T. Evaluation and comparison of videokeratoscopic simulated fluorescein programs 1998;60(3):158-163 [ Show Abstract ]

Software for designing rigid gas permeable contact lenses has been developed for a number of corneal topography systems. There are some common and some unique features in the fitting programs of these instruments. Three currently available instruments are compared and contrasted to traditional contact lens fitting. These instruments are the EyeSys (EyeSys Technologies), the EyeMap (Alcon) and the TMS (Computed Anatomy, Tomey).

Sorbara,L., Simpson,T., Duench,S., Schulze,M., Fonn,D. Comparison of an objective method of measuring bulbar redness to the use of traditional grading scales Contact Lens and Anterior Eye 2007;30(1):53-59 [ Show Abstract ]

Purpose: The primary objective was to compare measures of bulbar redness objectively using a photometric method with standard grading methods. Measures of redness were made on 24 participants wearing a silicone hydrogel contact lens in one eye for overnight wear. This report compares hyperaemia after 1 week of daily wear (baseline) with redness measured after 6 months of overnight wear. Method: A new method of objectively measuring bulbar conjunctival redness was performed using the Spectrascan650® Photometer by Photo Research® under fixed illumination. Photometric measures in CIEu* chromaticity values involve the measurement of chromaticity, a physical analogue of redness, greenness and blueness in the image. This method was validated in Part 1 of the study using repeated measurements on the photographic CCLRU scale. In Part 2 of the study, the photographic grading scale (CCLRU) from 0 (none) to 100 (extreme) was used to make the comparison. Results: Part 1 indicated that the photometer provides a repeatable and reliable measure of bulbar redness (CCC = 0.989). A moderately strong and significant correlation was found between the CIEu* chromaticity values and the analogue data (R = 0.795, p = 0.000) at each measurement session (from baseline to 1 day, 1 week, and 1, 3 and 6 months of overnight wear). Conclusions: This new standardized and objective method of measuring bulbar redness has great potential to replace subjective grading scales, especially with multi-centre studies, where variability between investigators occurs. This method may also detect smaller changes between visits or between eyes. Crown Copyright © 2007.

Sorbara,L., Simpson,T., Vaccari,S., Jones,L., Fonn,D. Tear turnover rate is reduced in patients with symptomatic dry eye Contact Lens and Anterior Eye 2004;27(1):15-20 [ Show Abstract ]

Purpose: Tear turnover rate (TTR) is defined as the percent decrease of fluorescein concentration in the tears per minute after the instillation of fluorescein. The purpose of this study was to examine differences in TTR in a sample with symptoms of dry eye and an asymptomatic control sample using the Fluorotron Master™ Fluorophotometer. Methods: TTR was measured using the OcuMetrics Fluorotron Master™. It measures the decay of the fluorescence of high molecular weight fluorescein FITC Dextran instilled into the tear film. Twenty participants (post-menopausal women) were enrolled in the study (10 asymptomatic (age 64.7±6.99) and 10 symptomatic (age 61.5±7.98)). Participants were grouped according to either a positive (symptomatic) or negative (asymptomatic) McMonnies Dry Eye Questionnaire, i.e., an indication of self-reported ocular dryness and the use of rewetting/lubricating drops (questions 4 and 5). TTR was measured in the afternoon only. Measurements were made on the right eye with a controlled blink rate (15 blinks/min), for up to 30 min, post-insertion of 2 μl of 2% FITC Dextran (MW 9500). The scan data were used to construct a graph of log fluorescein concentration (ng/ml) as a function of time and the TTR calculated (%/min=(1-ln (slope))×100). Results: There was a significant difference in the TTR between symptomatic and asymptomatic subjects. Mean TTR (symptomatic) was 4.89±2.74%/min (range, 2.04-11.81) and mean TTR (asymptomatic) was 11.85±3.31%/min (range, 5.76-16.45) (P<0.0001). Conclusions: Fluorophotometry may be used to demonstrate differences in the tear turnover rate in this post-menopausal group of women, with patients experiencing symptoms of dry eye having a lower TTR than the normals. © 2003 British Contact Lens Association. Published by Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

Sorbara,L., Talsky,C. Contact lens wear in the dry eye patient predicting succes and achieving it
Canadian Journal of Optometry 1988;50(4):234-241 [ Show Abstract ]

Clinical diagnosis of dry eye and its implications in successful contact lens wear has not been well defined. Two thousand patient files from the University of Waterloo, School of Optometry, Contact Lens Clinic were surveyed and 54 patients, diagnosed as having dry eye, were fit with contact lenses and were included in a retrospective prevalence study. Diagnostic procedures commonly used in the detection of dry eye were evaluated in terms of their ability to accurately predict successful lens wear in the dry eye patient. The Tear Break Up Time was found to be the most valid in identifying those patients who are less likely to achieve success. Schirmer`s Test was found to be of little predictive value. Possible correlations between lens type and successful lens wear were investigated. Dry eye patients fit with low water content, thin (0.06-0.10 mm) hydrogel lenses of differing water content or rigid gas permeable lenses. Additional factors which may serve to increase successful lens wear are briefly discussed.

Spafford,M. M., Chow,A. H. Y., Labreche,T., Jones,D. A., Christian,L. W. T., Furtado,N. M., MacIver,S., Irving,E. L. Trust and Access: Eye Information-seeking Practices and Preferences among Canadians Optometry and Vision Science 2023;100(7):467-474 [ Show Abstract ]

SIGNIFICANCE
This study highlights the value that the public places on obtaining trusted and accessible health-related information and their preference for obtaining it from their health care practitioners. Previous research has not been specific to Canadians or vision. Findings can be used to increase eye health literacy and eye care utilization.

PURPOSE
Canadians underuse eye care and underestimate the occurrence of asymptomatic eye disease. This study explored eye information-seeking practices and preferences among a group of Canadians.

METHODS
Using snowball sampling, a 28-item online survey collected respondent perceptions about their eye and health information-seeking practices and preferences. Questions examined electronic device access, information source use, and demographics. Two open-ended questions examined information-seeking practices and preferences. Respondents were at least 18 years old and living in Canada. Individuals working in eye care were excluded. Response frequencies and z scores were computed. Written comments were assessed using content analysis.

RESULTS
Respondents searched for less eye than health information (z scores ≥ 2.25, P < .05). For eye and health information, primary care providers were the used and preferred source, and reliance on Internet searches was greater than desired. Trust and access drove information-seeking practices. Respondent comments suggested that a hierarchy of trust operates across My Health Team, My Network, and My External Sources, with a persistent threat posed by Discredited Sources. Access to information sources seemed mediated by enablers (Convenience and Accessible Features) and barriers (Unreachable Health Team and Absent Systems). Eye information was seen as more specialized and harder to find. There was a high regard for health care practitioners who provide their patients with curated trusted information.

CONCLUSIONS
These Canadians value trusted and accessible health-related information. They prefer eye and health information from their health care practitioners and value when their health team provides online curated information, particularly regarding eyes.

Spafford,M. M., Jones,D. A., Christian,L. W., Labreche,T., Furtado,N. M., MacIver,S., Irving,E. L. What the Canadian public (mis)understands about eyes and eye care Clinical and Experimental Optometry 2023;106(1):75-84 [ Show Abstract ]

Clinical relevance
Inadequate public knowledge about eyes and eye care poses avoidable risks to vision-related quality of life.

Background
This study of eye care knowledge among Canadians extends earlier findings from focus groups.

Methods
Perceptions about eyes and eye care were sought using a 21-item online survey and snowball sampling. Inclusion criteria were living in Canada and being at least 18-years old; eye care professionals and staff were excluded. Response frequencies were converted to percentages, with eye condition items analysed according to ‘expected’ or ‘unexpected’ eye impacts. Proportions selecting these impacts or ‘unsure’ were determined.

Results
There were 424 respondents: 83.0% aged 20-65 years and 69.6% female. Mismatches existed between perceived recommendations and behaviours for booking eye exams: within two years (86.7% vs. 68.4%) and symptom-driven (3.3% vs. 13.0%). First eye exams after age one year were deemed appropriate by 43.6%. Few respondents associated glaucoma with no symptoms (6.0%) or amblyopia with blurred vision (13.5%). A notable proportion incorrectly related tunnel vision with age-related macular degeneration (AMD, 36.8%) and cataract (21.9%). Identifying all ‘expected’ responses was unlikely for glaucoma (1.9%), amblyopia (6.7%), and cataract (12.0%). Most respondents identified no ‘expected’ effects for glaucoma (63.8%) and AMD (46.2%) and some ‘expected’ effects for cataract (59.5%) and amblyopia (72.6%). Selecting ‘unsure’ was 9-10 times more common among respondents choosing no ‘expected’ impacts than those choosing some. Awareness of thyroid-associated eye disease was lowest (32.4%) of seven conditions. Respondents were most likely to consult optometrists for routine eye exams, eye disease, diabetes eye checks and blurred vision but family physicians for red eyes and sore eyes. Respondents typically paid for their eye exams and eyewear but wanted government to pay.

Conclusion
Vision-threatening knowledge gaps and misinformation about eyes and eye care among Canadian respondents highlight the need for accessible, targeted public education.

Srinivasan,S., Chan,C., Jones,L. Apparent time-dependent differences in inferior tear meniscus height in human subjects with mild dry eye symptoms Clinical and Experimental Optometry 2007;90(5):345-350 [ Show Abstract ]

PURPOSE: The aim of the study was to track the volume of tears contained in the inferior tear meniscus over the course of the day in subjects with symptoms of mild dry eye and a control asymptomatic group. METHODS: Forty non-contact lens-wearing subjects (aged 27 +/- 6 years) were enrolled in this investigator-masked study. They were divided into 'dry eye' (DE) and 'non-dry eye' (NDE) individuals based on their responses to the Allergan Subjective Evaluation of Symptoms of Dryness (SESOD) questionnaire. Measurement of the tear meniscus height (TMH) was undertaken on the centre of the right eye at 9:00 am, noon, 3:00 pm, 6:00 pm and 9:00 pm on the lower lid using a non-contact, non-invasive optical coherence tomographer (OCT). The TMH was determined from scanned images using customised software. RESULTS: A monotonous and significant reduction in the central TMH occurred over the course of the day in both groups (p < 0.05), with the values constantly decreasing (NDE = 0.162 to 0.125 mm; DE = 0.154 to 0.121 mm). While the TMH values in the DE group were always lower than the NDE group, these were not significantly different at any time (p > 0.05). CONCLUSIONS: A diurnal reduction in tear volume, as assessed by evaluation of the inferior TMH, may be one of the reasons responsible for the common increase in end-of-day ocular dryness symptoms reported by many patients in clinical practice.

Srinivasan,S., Heynen,M. L., Martell,E., Ritter III,R., Jones,L., Senchyna,M. Quantification of MUCIN 1, cell surface associated and MUCIN16, cell surface associated proteins in tears and conjunctival epithelial cells collected from postmenopausal women Molecular Vision 2013;19970-979 [ Show Abstract ]

Purpose: To quantify the expression of mucin 1, cell surface associated (MUC1) and mucin 16, cell surface associated (MUC16) proteins and messenger ribonucleic acid (mRNA) in a cohort of postmenopausal women (PMW), to explore the relationship between mucin expression, dry eye symptomology, and tear stability. Methods: Thirty-nine healthy PMW (>50 years of age) were enrolled in this study. No specific inclusion criteria were used to define dry eye; instead, a range of subjects were recruited based on responses to the Allergan Ocular Surface Disease Index (OSDI) questionnaire and tear stability measurements as assessed by non-invasive tear breakup time (NITBUT). Tears were collected from the inferior tear meniscus using a disposable glass capillary tube, and total RNA and total protein were isolated from conjunctival epithelial cells collected via impression cytology. Expression of membrane-bound and soluble MUC1 and MUC16 were quantified with western blotting, and expression of MUC1 and MUC16 mRNA was assessed with real-time PCR. Results: OSDI responses ranged from 0 to 60, and NITBUT ranged from 18.5 to 2.9 s. Only two statistically significant correlations were found: soluble MUC16 protein concentration and MUC16 mRNA expression with OSDI vision related (-0.47; p=0.01) and ocular symptom (0.39; p=0.02) subscores, respectively. Post hoc exploratory analysis on absolute expression values was performed on two subsets of subjects defined as asymptomatic (OSDI =6, n=12) and moderate to severe symptomatic (OSDI =20, n=12). The only significant difference between the two subgroups was a significant reduction in MUC16 mRNA expression found in the symptomatic dry eye group (1.52±1.19 versus 0.57±0.44; p=0.03). Conclusions: A broad exploration of mucin expression compared to either a sign (NITBUT) or symptoms of dry eye failed to reveal compelling evidence supporting a significant relationship, other than a potential association between MUC16 with specific symptoms. Furthermore, comparison of mucin protein and expression levels between the asymptomatic and moderate to severe symptomatic subgroups revealed only one significant difference, a reduction in MUC16 mRNA expression in the symptomatic subgroup. © 2013 Molecular Vision.

Srinivasan,S., Joyce,E., Boone,A., Simpson,T., Jones,L., Senchyna,M. Tear lipocalin and lysozyme concentrations in postmenopausal women Ophthalmic and Physiological Optics 2010;30(3):257-266

Srinivasan,S., Joyce,E., Jones,L. W. Tear osmolality and ferning patterns in postmenopausal women Optometry and Vision Science 2007;84(7):588-592 [ Show Abstract ]

PURPOSE: To compare tear osmolality and ferning patterns in postmenopausal women (PMW) with and without dry eye symptoms. METHODS: Thirty-seven healthy PMW (>50 years of age), not on hormone replacement therapy, were categorized as being symptomatic or asymptomatic of dry eye based on their responses to an Allergan "Single-Item Score Dry Eye Questionnaire" (SIDEQ). They subsequently completed the Allergan "Ocular Surface Disease Index" (OSDI) questionnaire. Tear samples were collected from participants to evaluate osmolality and ferning patterns. A novel freezing point depression osmometer (Advanced Instruments Inc., Model 3100 Tear Osmometer), was used to measure the osmolality of the tear film. The tear ferning test was performed and evaluated for the quality of ferning based on the Rolando grading system. RESULTS: SIDEQ responses revealed 21 symptomatic and 16 asymptomatic participants. The OSDI total score was 6.5 +/- 5.9 for the non-dry-eyed (NDE) group and 25.7 +/- 12.4 for the dry-eyed (DE) group. The subscores for the DE group were significantly greater than the NDE group (p < 0.001). Osmolality values in DE individuals were significantly different from NDE (328.1 +/- 20.8 vs. 315.1 +/- 11.3 mOsm/kg; p = 0.02). Fifty percent of the DE participants showed type II ferning patterns and 29% of the DE participants showed type III ferning patterns, whereas the NDE participants showed either type I (44%) or II (66%) ferning patterns. There was a significant difference between the DE and NDE participants for the ferning patterns (p = 0.019). There was no significant correlation between tear osmolality and tear ferning (DE: r = 0.12; p > 0.05, NDE: r = -0.17; p > 0.05). CONCLUSIONS: Osmolality in mild and moderately DE PMW is higher than in NDE PMW and tear ferning is a rapid, simple, noninvasive laboratory procedure that indicates altered tear quality in PMW with symptoms of dry eye.

Srinivasan,S., Joyce,E., Jones,L. W., Senchyna,M. Subconjunctival cyst-like formations following impression cytology Contact Lens and Anterior Eye 2005;28(4):181-184 [ Show Abstract ]

Purpose: To report a case of an unusual adverse event subsequent to undertaking Conjunctival Impression Cytology (CIC). Methods: CIC was un dertaken on a 54-year-old healthy Caucasian female, using a 10 mm Millipore™ membrane on the bulbar conjunctiva. Prior to the CIC procedure, two drops of topical proparacaine (Alcaine®) were instilled and following the procedure two drops of artificial tears (GenTeal®) were administered. Results: The subject reported excessive bulbar conjunctival hyperaemia in the left eye 5 min postprocedure, with no marked pain or discomfort. Slitlamp biomicroscopic evaluation revealed several "bubbles" or cystic formations trapped underneath the conjunctival tissue, in association with moderate to severe bulbar conjunctival redness. These cysts began to regress fairly rapidly and completely disappeared within 1 h. Conclusion: CIC is a useful tool for studying the ocular surface; however, care should be taken while performing this mildly invasive procedure. This is the first report of bubble formation in the conjunctiva following CIC. Subjects should be advised about the short term redness and discomfort that could occur following CIC. © 2005 British Contact Lens Association. Published by Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

Srinivasan,S., Menzies,K. L., Sorbara,L., Jones,L. W. Imaging meibomian glands on a patient with chalazia in the upper and lower lids: A case report Contact Lens and Anterior Eye 2013;36(4):199-203 [ Show Abstract ]

Aim: To describe the meibomian gland (MG) appearance in a case of eyelid chalazia, using a novel meibography method. Methods: A 29-year-old female of South Asian origin presented with mild swelling in the lower lid of the left eye. The patient also presented with a history of a recurrent chalazion in the upper lid of the same eye, which later progressed to an active chalazion. A chalazion also developed in the upper lid of the right eye. Meibography was performed using a novel Keratograph (Keratograph 4, OCULUS, Wetzlar, Germany) to evaluate the structure of the MG in the area affected by the chalazia. Results: The area of the recurrent chalazion in the upper left lid showed partial and/or complete MG loss. The active chalazia in the lower left lid and the upper right lid showed inflammation and MG drop out at the affected site. The inflammation was found to be reduced during the follow-up visits, however disappearance of MG very specific to the region of the chalazion was observed. Conclusion: The Keratograph 4 was able to image the MG structures clearly, allowing the clinician to monitor the progression of chalazia and the MG loss in the affected areas. © 2013 British Contact Lens Association.

Srinivasan,S., Menzies,K., Sorbara,L., Jones,L. Infrared imaging of meibomian gland structure using a novel keratograph Optometry and Vision Science 2012;89(5):788-794 [ Show Abstract ]

PURPOSE.: To examine the ability of a novel non-contact device (Keratograph 4) to image the meibomian gland (MG) structures and their morphological changes in the upper and lower eyelids. METHODS.: Thirty-seven participants (mean age 57.8 ± 8.5 years; 3 males and 34 females) completed the Ocular Surface Disease Index questionnaire to assess dryness symptoms. Meibum secretion quality score, number of blocked gland orifices, and meibum expressibility scores were assessed. The lower lid (LL) and upper lid (UL) of all subjects were everted and images of the MGs were taken using the Keratograph 4 (OCULUS). A MG dropout score (MGDS) due to complete or partial gland loss of both lids was obtained using a subjective 4-grade scoring system, and digital analysis of the images using ImageJ was performed. Presence of tortuosity and visible acinar changes of the MGs were also noted. RESULTS.: MGDS for both lids was significantly positively correlated with the Ocular Surface Disease Index score (r = 0.51; p < 0.05). The MGDS determined using the digital grading was also significantly positively correlated (UL: r = 0.68, p < 0.05; LL: r = 0.42, p < 0.05). The sum of the MGDS for both lids using the subjective grading scale was significantly different between the non-MGD and MGD group (1.3 ± 1.0 vs. 3.1 ± 1.1; p = 0.0004). MGDS assessment using the digital grading was significantly different between non-MGD (UL = 6%, LL = 8%) and MGD group (UL = 32%, LL = 42%; p = 0.001). Tortuous MG was observed only on the UL in 6% of the participants. Visible acinar changes were noted in 40% of the study participants. CONCLUSIONS.: Infrared meibography is now possible in a clinical setting using commercially available devices, and meibography can help determine differences in MG structure in subjects symptomatic of dry eye. Copyright © 2012 American Academy of Optometry.