Shukla M, Jones L, Hui A.. Poly (vinyl alcohol) elution from commercial contact lenses . Controlled Release Society Annual Meeting and Expo, Bologna, Italy, Jul 10, 2024 [ Show Abstract ]

Introduction: Contact lenses (CL) are a common form of refractive error correction, with approximately 140 million contact lens wearers across the world and 40 million in the US. Unfortunately, wearing contact lenses can cause discomfort and dryness, with almost half of all wearers experiencing these type of symptoms during use. (2) (1) Polyvinyl alcohol (PVA) is a lubricant which is effective against CL discomfort when used as an eye drop.(3) The purpose of this study was to investigate PVA elution from commercial contact lenses for a one-day wear modality. This study hypothesizes that by incorporating freezing as part of PVA loading into contact lenses, hydrogen bonding of PVA to lens materials will be enhanced, enabling the formation of a surface layer on contact lenses and increased PVA elution.

Methods: Commercial contact lenses (1-Day Acuvue® Moist® (etafilcon A, Johnson and Jonson), Acuvue® Oasys (senofilcon A, Johnson and Johnson), and DAILIES® AquaComfort PLUS® (nelfilcon A, Alcon)) were soaked in 2.5% w/v high molecular weight (avg. - 166 kDa) PVA solutions at 37°C for 48 hours. This was followed by 1 hour at either room temperature or freezing at -80°C. Total PVA release from lenses was determined in a vial containing 2 mL PBS on an orbital shaker at 50 RPM for 24 h. PVA was quantified using UV at 630 nm. All experiments were performed with n=6.

Results: A significant (p0.05) change in the amount of PVA released after freezing. Etafilcon A lenses released 17.03 ± 3.03 μg and 20.21 ± 2.51 μg (p>0.05), and senofilcon A showed 20.33 ± 6.60 μg and 24.14 ± 2.58 μg (p>0.05) at room temperature and after freezing at -80°C for one hour, respectively. However, nelfilcon A did not show significant (p>0.05) effect after 5 free-thaw cycles.

Conclusions/Implications: The findings suggest that the freezing technique has potential applications in enhancing the release of PVA from nelfilcon A contact lenses, which contains PVA internally. This provides insights into optimizing contact lens design for improved comfort by utilizing PVA release. The impact of freezing on nelfilcon A lenses releasing PVA indicates a promising potential avenue for enhancing the release of other comfort agents. Learning Objective 1: Understand the impact of freezing on enhancing the release of PVA from different contact lenses

Sindt C, Jedlicka J, Fadel D, Garcia C . Oculus: Specialty Contact Lens fitting solutions for every patient and every doctor Global Specialty Lens Symposium, Las Vegas, Jan 18, 2024

Spafford M, Jones D, Christian L, Labreche T, Furtado N, MacIver S, Irving E. Public Perspectives on Eye Educational Videos and Posters American Academy of Optometry Meeting, Indianapolis, Nov 7, 2024 [ Show Abstract ]

Purpose: Studies have shown that the public has a limited knowledge about common eye conditions, diseases, and procedures, and an inadequate awareness of asymptomatic eye disease. Low health literacy is associated with poor health outcomes that drive underutilization of eye care services. Additional eye and vision education is needed. This beta study examined public perspectives on a set of eye and vision educational materials (EVEMs).

Methods: Five videos (< 30 seconds) and seven posters were developed based on common risks to vision (e.g., glaucoma, diabetes, amblyopia, ultraviolet radiation, macular degeneration). A 14-item REDcap survey was generated to reflect the research team’s knowledge of eye care, eye health literacy, and health messaging. Likert scale items provided five choices (e.g., strongly disagree, disagree, undecided, agree, strongly agree). A convenience sample of 160 eligible Canadian residents (at least 18 years old but not eye care professionals) were surveyed. Informants reviewed either two videos or two posters. Frequency-based scores (range: -2.0 to 2.0) were analyzed for individual survey items and four item categories: 1) Message (specific eye and vision facts), 2) Appeal (i.e., positive, understandable, funny, unscary, important, entertaining), 3) Eye Exam Importance, and 4) Action (motivate, convince, share, book eye exam), using a two-tailed, one-sample t-test (null=0, α=0.05). Only video informants answered Action items. Video and poster category scores were compared (two-tailed independent t-test, α = 0.05).

Results: Forty-four surveys were returned; 35 (22% response rate) were completed and analyzed (11 video informants; 24 poster informants). Informants were 66% female, 31% male, 23.5% (20 to 40 years), 53% (41 to 65 years), and 23.5% ( >65 years). Of the 12 EVEMs, scores were significantly positive for Eye Exam Importance (11), Message (8), and Appeal (6) (t-test≥2.536, p≤0.038). Five EVEMs (glaucoma and child eye exam videos, and macular degeneration/smoking, visual impairment/rehabilitation, and nutrition posters) obtained positive scores for all three of these categories (t-test≥2.679, p≤0.032), while 1 EVEM (glaucoma poster) did not obtain any positive scores for these measures (t-test≤1.750, p≥0.178). The Message score was significantly higher for videos than posters (t-test=2.39, p=0.04). None of the videos obtained significantly positive Action scores (t-test≤0.854, p≥0.418).

Conclusion: The public educational videos and posters tested strongest for Eye Exam Importance, then Message conveyance, followed by Appeal. This feedback approach enables refinement of lower scoring media for further testing. Of concern, despite more effective message conveyance with the videos, informants were not motivated to act (i.e., share the videos or book an eye exam).

Tuan K, Dillehay S, Tse D, Tucker A, Caffery B, Isaacs S, Cooper J, Eiden SB, Woods J, Benoit D. Accommodative Accuracy of Children Wearing Catenary Curve Multifocal Lenses, 1-year PROTECT Results American Academy of Optometry Meeting, Indianapolis, Nov 7, 2024 [ Show Abstract ]

Purpose: Accommodative accuracy during near tasks may impact visual comfort and myopia progression. The impact of accommodative accuracy from wearing single-vision or catenary curve multifocal contact lenses was evaluated from the results of a randomized controlled study (PROTECT).

Methods: Myopic children between 7 to < 13-year-old were recruited in the The PROgressive Myopia Treatment Evaluation for NaturalVue Multifocal Contact Lens Trial (PROTECT). Accommodative accuracy was measured using the Monocular Estimation Method (MEM), with the 20/125 line of a ETDRS nearpoint card at 40cm. Data was collected at the Baseline (BL) over manifest refraction; children then were fitted with assigned study lenses and their accommodative accuracy were measured at 1-month (1M) and 12-month (12M) visits wearing the study lenses. Paired analyses were conducted on the active subjects at 12M.

Results: There were 38 subjects from the Single-Vision Contact Lens (SVCL) arm and 89 subjects from the NaturalVue Multifocal (NVMF) arm at 12M. At BL, both SVCL and NVMF had similar average accommodative lag (SVCL 1.07±0.75D, NVMF 1.04±0.84D). After a few weeks of lens wear, the SVCL arm’s accommodative lag remained similar to BL (1.12±0.82D, p=0.5732), and also remained similar to BL at 12M (0.99±0.71D, p=0.2862). On average, the NVMF arm had a significant reduction of accommodative lag from BL at 1M while wearing the lenses (0.63±1.02D, p< 0.001) and the significance persisted at 12M (0.76 ± 0.67D, p0.50D at the 12M visit were the ones who had a large magnitude of lag at BL (+2.00D or more). Three subjects from the NVMF arm increased more than 0.50 D in accommodative lag at 12M compared to their BL values; all three had accommodative lead (-0.50 to -2.50D) at BL, and their accommodative lag measurements were between +0.50 to +0.75D at 12M. There were no subjects from the SVCL arm with negative values at BL and the subjects with large changes did not have a particular pattern. There was also no correlation between accommodative accuracy at BL/12M and the magnitude of axial elongation or myopia progression at 12M (R2=0.03 to 0.10).

Conclusion: The large magnitude of relative plus from NVMF did not negatively affect the subjects’ accommodation performance. NVMF’s relative plus may have reduced the accommodative stress for some subjects; in some cases, wearing NVMF appeared to have improved their accuracy to within the typical population range of accommodative lag. Nonetheless, the accommodative accuracy does not appear to be associated with myopia progression or axial elongation in this study population.

Tuan K, Dillehay S, Tse D, Tucker A, Caffery B, Isaacs S, Cooper J, Eiden SB, Woods J, Benoit D. Patient Reported Outcomes in a Randomized Controlled Myopia Progression Study (PROTECT) of a Soft Multifocal Contact Lens

American Academy of Optometry Meeting, Indianapolis, Nov 8, 2024 [ Show Abstract ]

Purpose: Multifocal optics can impact vision and comfort, which may then affect compliance with myopia control treatment in children using multifocal contact lenses. This analysis looked at the impact of optical designs to patient-reported outcomes from single-vision contact lens (SVCL) wearers and a multifocal (up to 8D add) contact lens (NVMF) wearers.

Methods: The PROgressive Myopia Treatment Evaluation for NaturalVue Multifocal Contact Lens Trial (PROTECT), recruited myopic children age 7 to < 13. The Pediatric Refractive Error Profile 2 (PREP2) was administered by the subjects along with a wearing time survey. PREP2 is a validated questionnaire for comparing vision-specific quality of life measurements between children wearing multifocal and single vision contact lenses for Myopia Progression Control, and was previously validated for this purpose in the BLINK study [doi.org/10.1111/opo.13216] evaluating myopia progression control in a single-vision contact lens versus the Biofinity Multifocal.

Results: At the 12-month visit, the NVMF group (n=93) had similar PREP2 Vision subscale scores compared to the SVCL group (n=41) and similar Symptoms (Comfort) Subscale scores. In addition, Subscales regarding the ability to carry out daily activities and lens overall performance were both similar between the two groups. The mean wearing time for the SVCL was 81.3±12.6 hrs/wk and 80.9±11.4 hrs/wk for the NVMF group with no statistical difference between groups (P=0.84).

Conclusion: In the BLINK study, the PREP2 questionnaire was able to differentiate the magnitude of impact between the groups wearing +1.50D and +2.50D add. The average score of the +2.50 group had a 3.2 points reduction in Vision Subscale compared to the +1.50D group and 4 points reduction in Vision score compared to the SVCL group. Compared with the BLINK data, the PROTECT data was within a similar range of variability on the Subscale scores. No reduction in scores were observed from the NVMF group as compared to the SVCL group for any Subscore, indicating NVMF’s multifocal optics did not cause negative impacts on the vision, comfort and vision-related quality of life measurements compared to children wearing single vision contact lenses. The average wearing time for the NVMF group was around 11-12 hours per day, and it was similar to the SVCL group, with the similar wearing times aligning with the similar PREP2 scores reported by each group . NVMF’s multifocal optics did not adversely impact the wearers’ vision-related quality of life and their daily activities, which enabled them to achieve sufficient wearing time. The potential impact of vision-related quality of life attributes with multifocal optics is an important consideration that may contribute to wearing time compliance, and should be considered when evaluating a myopia management treatment option.

Vega J, Woods J, Guthrie S, Luensmann D, Orsborn G. Ease of Success Refitting Habitual Multifocal Soft Lens Wearers with a New Progressive Multifocal Lens System American Academy of Optometry Meeting, Indianapolis, Nov 8, 2024 [ Show Abstract ]

Purpose: It is important for eye care professionals to have confidence when switching multifocal (MF) contact lens (CL) wearers to a new lens, knowing the results will be predictable and not involve excessive chair time, whether updating a prescription, selecting a different lens material or replacement frequency, or moving to a new optical system. A 2-add (High & Low) MFCL is being changed to a 3-add (High, Medium & Low) lens with a different binocular progressive system. This study was to evaluate the ease and predictability of fit and success when switching existing 2-Add wearers to the 3-Add system.

Methods: 5 US sites recruited presbyopic habitual MF wearers for a bilateral, daily wear, crossover (fixed order), subject-masked study. Subjects were fit and dispensed with clariti 1 day multifocal 2-add (somofilcon A, CooperVision, Inc.) with power optimizations after 3-7 days; optimal powers were worn for 2-weeks. Then subjects were fit with clariti 1 day multifocal 3-add and worn with the same visit schedule. LogMAR visual acuity and subjective ratings (0–10 scale;10=best) were collected after each lens wear period; preference ratings were recorded on study exit (5-point Likert).

Results: Fifty-eight participants (mean age 53.5±6.2 years, 46F:12M) completed the study. Mean refraction -1.11±2.44DS [-4.75 to +3.50], -0.27±0.25DC [0.00 to -0.75] and near addition +2.05±0.36D [+1.25 to +2.50]. There were no differences between lenses for comfort (p=0.76), vision quality (p=0.78) or overall satisfaction (p=0.94). The only statistical difference among preferences related to vision clarity for near tasks, where the 3-Add system was preferred (p=0.03). After 2-weeks, LogMAR acuity was significantly better with the 3-Add system for distance (p< 0.01) and near (p=0.02), but not for intermediate (p=0.10). When strictly following the fitting guides, the 3-Add was significantly more successful with the first pair of lenses compared to the 2-Add (80% vs 59% respectively, p=0.03); 98% of both MFCLs were successful after 1 refinement, and 100% with two.

Conclusion: The 3-Add MFCL performance matched or exceeded that of the 2-Add lens for visual acuity, subjective ratings and preference, and had a higher success rate with the first lens pair. The fit success rate for first lens pair aligns with that with MyDay multifocal (stenfilcon A, CooperVision, Inc.) that uses the same 3-Add Binocular Progressive System. This clinical study indicates that switching 2-Add wearers to the 3-Add system was generally successful, and the 3-Add lens was well accepted.

Wang T, Jones L, Semp D, Trave-Huarte S, Wolffsohn J and TFOS Ambassadors. Clinical Practice Patterns in The Diagnosis of Dry Eye Disease: A TFOS International Longitudinal Survey Tear Film & Ocular Surface Society Conference, Venice, Italy, Nov 1, 2024

Wolf A, Fadel D. Presentation Provided by WAVE: Become a more Successful Scleral Fitter by Utilizing WAVE and Advanced Technologies! Global Specialty Lens Symposium, Las Vegas, Jan 18, 2024

Wolffsohn J, Craig J, Jones L. An Action Plan for Managing Dry Eye Review of Optometry 2024, May 15: 50-55

Wolffsohn,J. S., Berkow,D., Chan,K. Y., Chaurasiya,S. K., Fadel,D., Haddad,M., Imane, T., Jones,L., Sheppard,A. L., Vianya-Estopa,M., Walsh,K., Woods,J., Zeri,F., Morgan,P. B. BCLA CLEAR Presbyopia: Evaluation and diagnosis Contact Lens Anterior Eye 2024;47(4):102156 [ Show Abstract ]

It is important to be able to measure the range of clear focus in clinical practice to advise on presbyopia correction techniques and to optimise the correction power. Both subjective and objective techniques are necessary: subjective techniques (such as patient reported outcome questionnaires and defocus curves) assess the impact of presbyopia on a patient and how the combination of residual objective accommodation and their natural DoF work for them; objective techniques (such as autorefraction, corneal topography and lens imaging) allow the clinician to understand how well a technique is working optically and whether it is the right choice or how adjustments can be made to optimise performance. Techniques to assess visual performance and adverse effects must be carefully conducted to gain a reliable end-point, considering the target size, contrast and illumination. Objective techniques are generally more reliable, can help to explain unexpected subjective results and imaging can be a powerful communication tool with patients. A clear diagnosis, excluding factors such as binocular vision issues or digital eye strain that can also cause similar symptoms, is critical for the patient to understand and adapt to presbyopia. Some corrective options are more permanent, such as implanted inlays / intraocular lenses or laser refractive surgery, so the optics can be trialled with contact lenses in advance (including differences between the eyes) to better communicate with the patient how the optics will work for them so they can make an informed choice.

Wong S. Fast Forward to the Future: Shades Ahead Contact Lens Spectrum 2024;39, October: 17

Wong S, Fadel D, Seo J, Luensmann D, Guthrie S, Woods J, Voltz K, Vega J. Dry eye management with scleral lenses in non-lens wearers NCC, Veldhoven, Netherlands, Mar 10, 2024 [ Show Abstract ]

PURPOSE: To assess the benefits of scleral lenses (SLs) with and without Hydra-PEG in non-lens wearers with dry eye symptoms.

METHODS: This prospective, randomised, double-masked, 1-month bilateral cross-over study recruited symptomatic non-wearers with healthy eyes and an OSDI score ≥13. Participants were fitted with SLs (hexafocon A, Onefit MED, CooperVision, Inc.) with and without Hydra-PEG coating (Tangible Science) (coated (C-SL)/uncoated (U-SL)) for 1-month daily wear per pair. LogMAR visual acuity was measured, and participants rated overall satisfaction with ocular comfort, dryness and vision clarity using a 0-10 scale (10=best) at baseline (BL) and after each 1-month wear period with the two SLs.

RESULTS: In total, 22 participants were eligible and 18 completed the study (18F:0M, mean age 34.9±13.4 years [20-66], OSDI score 39.8±18.0 [14-80], reason for discontinuation: n=3 handling, n=1 comfort). Mean refraction of the right eye was -3.28±1.13DS [-12.00 to +1.00] and -1.11±0.90DC [0.00 to -3.25]. At 1-month, satisfaction with ocular comfort and dryness was similar between study SLs (p>0.05), and both were rated better than BL (p0.05) (BL: 7.6±19, C-SL: 7.8±2.3, U-SL: 7.8±2.9), which was confirmed by LogMAR visual acuity with no clinically relevant differences noted (BL: -0.14±0.07, C-SL: -0.17±0.07, U-SL: -0.18±0.08). At study exit, 44% asked to share their SL details with their eye care professional to continue wear in the future.

CONCLUSIONS: Symptomatic non-lens wearers were successfully fit with SLs, which improved ocular comfort and reduced dryness after 1 month of wear. Although no difference was noted between Hydra-PEG-coated and uncoated lenses, participants with a wide range of dryness symptoms benefited from SL wear and almost every second participant indicated an interested to continue SL wear.

Wong S, Ruston D. Truth or myth: Spectacle lenses provide better visual acuity than soft toric contact lenses Optician: https://www.opticianonline.net/content/features/truth-or-myth-spectacle-lenses-provide-better-visual-acuity-than-soft-toric-contact-lenses/ 2024, January 5:

Wong,K-Y., Liu,Y., Phan,C-M., Jones,L., Wong,M-S., Liu,J. Selection of DNA aptamers for sensing drugs treating eye disease: atropine and timolol maleate Sensors & Diagnostics 2024;3(10):1679-1688 [ Show Abstract ]

Effective monitoring of ocular drugs is crucial for personalized medicine and improving drug delivery efficacy. However, traditional methods face difficulties in detecting low drug concentrations in small volumes of ocular fluid, such as that found on the ocular surface. In this study, we used capture-SELEX to select aptamers for two commonly used ocular drugs, timolol maleate and atropine. We identified TMJ-1 and AT-1 aptamers with binding affinities of 3.4 μM timolol maleate and 10 μM atropine, respectively. Our label-free TMJ-1 biosensor using thioflavin T staining achieved a limit of detection (LOD) of 0.3 μM for timolol maleate. The AT-1 biosensor showed an LOD of 1 μM for atropine, and exhibited a 10-fold higher sensitivity compared to UV-visible spectroscopy. Future research in this area holds promise in enhancing drug delivery monitoring and improving the treatment of ocular diseases.

Woods J. Article Review: Multifocal contact lens success predictability https://contactlensupdate.com/2024/10/03/article-review-multifocal-contact-lens-success-predictability/ 2024, 80:

Woods J, Guthrie S, Luensmann D, Vega J, Orsborn G. Evaluating the Success of Habitual Multifocal Soft Lens Wearers when Refit with a Progressive Multifocal Lens System NCC, Veldhoven, Netherlands, Mar 11, 2024 [ Show Abstract ]

PURPOSE: To evaluate the ease and predictability of fit and success when switching habitual, multifocal (MF) wearers from a somofilcon A (som-A) multifocal 2-Add system to a som-A 3-Add system.

METHODS: Presbyopic habitual MF wearers were recruited to a crossover, daily wear, subject-masked study. At first, participants were fit and dispensed bilaterally with som-A 2-Add (CooperVision) lenses and power optimizations were permitted at the fitting visit and the 1-week visit. The optimal lens powers were worn for 2-weeks. Next, som-A 3-Add (CooperVision) was fit and worn following the same visit schedule. Visual acuity and subjective ratings (0–10 scale;10=best) were collected after each lens wear period and preference ratings were completed at study exit (5-point Likert).

RESULTS: Fifty-eight participants (mean age 53.5±6.2 years, 46F:12M) completed the study. Mean refraction OD: Sph -1.11±2.44D [-4.75D to +3.50D], Cyl -0.27±0.25D [-0.75D to 0.00D], near addition +2.05±0.36D [+1.25D to +2.50D]. There was no difference between lenses for satisfaction with comfort (p=0.76), vision quality (p=0.78), or overall satisfaction (p=0.94). The only statistical difference among preferences related to vision clarity for near tasks, where som-A 3-Add was preferred (p=0.03). After 2-weeks, LogMAR acuity was significantly better with som-A 3-Add for distance vision (p<0.01) and near vision (p=0.02), but not different for intermediate vision (p=0.10). When strictly following the fitting guides, som-A 2-Add was successful with the first pair of lenses in 59% of participants, whereas som-A 3-Add was successful with the first pair in 80% of participants (p=0.03).

CONCLUSIONS: The performance of som-A 3-Add either matched or exceeded that of som-A 2-Add based on visual acuity, participant ratings and participant preferences. The 3-Add lens system had a higher rate of success with the first lens pair than the 2-Add system. Results indicate that switching som-A 2-Add wearers to the updated som-A 3-Add lens system was successful and well accepted.

Woods J, Jong M. Truth or myth: Young children are less successful in contact lenses? Optician: https://www.opticianonline.net/content/features/truth-or-myth-young-children-are-less-successful-in-contact-lenses-answer-myth 2024, March 1:

Woods J, Richards J, Guthrie S, Kollbaum P. Can Optical Modelling Predict Clinical Vision Outcomes of Myopia Control Contact Lenses? NCC, Veldhoven, Netherlands, Mar 11, 2024 [ Show Abstract ]

PURPOSE: To understand if optical metrology and computational modelling can predict the clinical visual performance of two myopia control contact lenses which employ different optical designs: non-coaxial senofilcon A (NC) (Acuvue Abiliti 1-Day, Johnson & Johnson Vision) and dual-focus omafilcon A (DF) (MiSight 1 day, CooperVision).

METHODS: For clinical assessments, children aged 8-15 years with no history of contact lens wear or recent myopia control intervention completed a randomised, non-dispensing, contralateral double-masked trial. After 1-hour of wear, participants rated their lens preference (Likert) and subjective vision (0-100 scale, 100=best), then distance visual acuity (VA) was measured.
For optical metrology and modeling, wavefront errors were measured with an aberrometer (Optocraft GmbH). Custom software was used to compute point spread functions, image quality and simulated retinal images for 3-6mm pupils by combining the lens optics with the optics of a model young eye, assuming centred and decentred lens positions.

RESULTS: Twenty-six participants completed the clinical study: 17M; mean age 11.6yrs [8-15yrs]; mean OD refraction: -1.96DS [-0.25 to -3.50DS], -0.34DC [0.00 to -1.00DC]. Ratings of distance vision at 1-hour were better with DF (88±14) versus NC (79±18), p<0.01. Distance logMAR VA was better with DF (0.02±0.04) versus NC (0.09±0.08), p<0.01. A higher number of participants indicated overall preference for DF, with vision the most common reason (DF:14 vs NC:6, p=0.17).
Optical modelling of well-centred lenses showed reduction in image quality for both lenses as the pupil increased. Lens decentration degraded image quality for both designs, but more for the NC design. Differences in add power zone geometry and NC optics may account for these differences.

CONCLUSIONS: Both optical modelling and clinical subjective results support better image quality with the dual-focus design. These results suggest that optical modelling techniques may be valuable in evaluating and comparing myopia control lens designs prior to on-eye testing.

Wu,T.-Y., Huang,C.-C., Tsai,H.C., Lon,T.-K., Chen,P.-Y., Darge,H. F., Hong,Z.-X., Ham,H.-J., Lin,S.-Z., Lai,J.-Y., Chen,Y.-S. Mucin-mediated mucosal retention via end-terminal modified Pluronic F127-based hydrogel to increase drug accumulation in the lungs Biomaterials Advances 2024;Jan(156):213722 [ Show Abstract ]

Noninvasive lung drug delivery is critical for treating respiratory diseases. Pluronic-based copolymers have been used as multifunctional materials for medical and biological applications. However, the Pluronic F127-based hydrogel is rapidly degraded, adversely affecting the mechanical stability for prolonged drug release. Therefore, this study designed two thermosensitive copolymers by modifying the Pluronic F127 terminal groups with carboxyl (ADF127) or amine groups (EDF127) to improve the viscosity and storage modulus of drug formulations. β-alanine and ethylenediamine were conjugated at the terminal of Pluronic F127 using a two-step acetylation process, and the final copolymers were characterized using 1H nuclear magnetic resonance (1H NMR) and Fourier-transform infrared spectra. According to the 1H NMR spectra, Pluronic F127 was functionalized to form ADF127 and EDF127 with 85 % and 71 % functionalization degrees, respectively. Rheological studies revealed that the ADF127 (15 wt%) and EDF127 (15 wt%) viscosities increased from 1480 Pa.s (Pluronic F127) to 1700 Pa.s and 1800 Pa.s, respectively. Furthermore, the elastic modulus of ADF127 and EDF127 increased, compared with that of native Pluronic F127 with the addition of 5 % mucin, particularly for ADF127, thereby signifying the stronger adhesive nature of ADF127 and EDF127 with mucin. Additionally, ADF127 and EDF127 exhibited a decreased gelation temperature, decreasing from 33 °C (Pluronic F127 at 15 wt%) to 24 °C. Notably, the in vitro ADF127 and EDF127 drug release was prolonged (95 %; 48 h) by the hydrogel encapsulation of the liposome-Bdph combined with mucin, and the intermolecular hydrogen bonding between the mucin and the hydrogel increased the retention time and stiffness of the hydrogels. Furthermore, ADF127 and EDF127 incubated with NIH-3T3 cells exhibited biocompatibility within 2 mg/mL, compared with Pluronic F127. The nasal administration method was used to examine the biodistribution of the modified hydrogel carrying liposomes or exosomes with fluorescence using the IVIS system. Drug accumulation in the lungs decreased in the following order: ADF127 > EDF127 > liposomes or exosomes alone. These results indicated that the carboxyl group-modified Pluronic F127 enabled well-distributed drug accumulation in the lungs, which is beneficial for intranasal administration routes in treating diseases such as lung fibrosis.

Yamasaki,K., Dantam,J., Sasanuma,K., Hisamura,R., Mizuno,Y., Hui,A., Jones,L. Impact of in vitro lens deposition and removal on bacterial adhesion to orthokeratology contact lenses Contact Lens Anterior Eye 2024;47(2):102104 [ Show Abstract ]

Purpose
The purpose of this study was to explore the impact of several contact lens (CL) care solutions on the removal of proteins and lipids, and how deposit removal impacts bacterial adhesion and solution disinfection.

Methods
Lysozyme and lipid deposition on three ortho-k (rigid) and two soft CL materials were evaluated using an ELISA kit and gas chromatography respectively. Bacterial adhesion to a fluorosilicone acrylate material using Pseudomonas aeruginosa with various compositions of artificial tear solutions (ATS), including with denatured proteins, was also investigated. The impact of deposition of the different formulations of ATS on biofilm formation was explored using cover slips. Finally, the lysozyme and lipid cleaning efficacy and disinfection efficacy against P. aeruginosa and Staphylococcus aureus of four different contact lens care solutions were studied using qualitative analysis.

Results
While maximum lysozyme deposition was observed with the fluorosilicone acrylate material (327.25 ± 54.25 µg/lens), the highest amount of lipid deposition was recorded with a fluoro-siloxanyl styrene material (134.71 ± 19.87 µg/lens). Adhesion of P. aeruginosa to fluorosilicone acrylate lenses and biofilm formation on cover slips were significantly greater with the addition of denatured proteins and lipids. Of the four contact lens care solutions investigated, the solution based on povidone-iodine removed both denatured lysozyme and lipid deposits and could effectively disinfect against P. aeruginosa and S. aureus when contaminated with denatured proteins and lipids. In contrast, the peroxide-based solution was able to inhibit P. aeruginosa growth only, while the two multipurpose solutions were unable to disinfect lenses contaminated with denatured proteins and lipids.

Conclusion
Bacterial adhesion and biofilm formation is influenced by components within artificial tear solutions depositing on lenses, including denatured proteins and lipids, which also affects disinfection. The ability of different solutions to remove these deposits should be considered when selecting systems to clean and disinfect ortho-k lenses.