INOS ablation promotes corneal wound healing via activation of Akt signaling.

Corneal injury leads to impaired normal structure of the cornea. Improving the wound healing process in epithelial cells significantly contributes to ocular damage treatments. Here, we aimed to investigate the potential mechanisms of nitric oxide (NO) and its mediator, inducible nitric oxide synthase (iNOS), in the process of corneal wound healing. We established a corneal injury model of iNOS-/- mice, and treated human corneal epithelial cell lines (HCE-2) with the iNOS inhibitor L-INL, with or without NO replenishment by supplying sodium nitroferricyanide dihydrate (SNP). Our findings showed that inhibition of NO/iNOS accelerated corneal repair, enhanced uPAR (a receptor protein indicating the migration ability), and improved epithelial cell migration. Furthermore, NO/iNOS ablation activated Akt phosphorylation, reduced neutrophil marker protein MPO expression, and downregulated the transcription of inflammation cytokines CXCL-1, CXCL-2, IL-1ß, IL-6, and TNF-α. However, the protective effects of NO/iNOS inhibition are significantly reduced by NO replenishment when treated with SNP. Therefore, we confirmed that inhibiting NO/iNOS improved the corneal wound healing by facilitating epithelial cell migration and reducing inflammatory reactions, which might be related to the activation of the Akt signaling pathway.

No side effects on rabbit retina or vitreous microenvironment by nd:YAG laser vitreolysis.

BACKGROUND: To explore the safety of Neodymium:Yttrium-aluminum-garnet (Nd:YAG) laser vitreolysis based on the histological examination of the retina and the alteration of vitreous cytokines in the rabbits. METHODS: Nine male New Zealand rabbits underwent Nd:YAG laser vitreolysis of 10 mJ x 500 pulses in the left eyes, while the right eyes were used as controls. Intraocular pressure, color fundus photography, and ultrasound B scan were measured before, as well as 1 day, 4 weeks, and 12 weeks after Nd:YAG laser vitreolysis. Three rabbits were euthanized 1 day, 4 weeks, and 12 weeks after treatment, respectively. Terminal deoxynucleotidyl transferase dUTP nick end labeling (TUNEL) staining and hematoxylin-eosin (H&E) staining were used to look for pathological changes in the retina. An enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA) was utilized to detect the expression of vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) and some inflammatory cytokines, including interferon inducible protein 10 (IP-10), monocyte chemoattractant protein 1 (MCP-1) and interlenkin 6 (IL-6) in the vitreous humor. The ascorbic acid (AsA) and total reactive antioxidant potential (TRAP) in the vitreous humor were also measured. RESULTS: Following Nd:YAG laser vitreolysis, the levels of VEGF, IP-10, MCP-1, IL6, AsA, and TRAP in the vitreous humor did not change substantially (P > 0.05). There were no detectable pathological changes in the retinal tissues, and no apoptotic signal was found. CONCLUSIONS: Rabbits tolerate Nd:YAG laser vitreolysis without observable impact on retinal tissue or the microenvironment of the vitreous.

Prevalence of dry eye in people over 50 years old in Beichen district, Tianjin city: a cross-sectional population-based survey.

BACKGROUND: A cross-sectional population-based survey in the Beichen district of Tianjin was conducted to estimate the prevalence of dry eye disease (DED) among the population over 50 years old with Dry Eye Workshop (DEWS) II and Chinese expert consensus (CEC) criteria. METHODS: A total of 5791 subjects over 50 years old were enrolled. Ocular surface disease index (OSDI) questionnaire, lipid layer thickness (LLT), partial blink ratio (PBR), fluorescein tear film breakup time (FBUT), Schirmer I test (SIT), fluorescein staining, meibomian gland dropout, meibomian gland expression scores (MES) and quantity scores (MQS) was assessed. Additionally, basic information, weight, disease history, living habits, anxiety, and depression condition were collected. RESULTS: According to the CEC, the prevalence of DED was 39.0%, whereas 44.0% based on DEWS II. The prevalence of DED increased with age and was substantially greater among women (41.1%, 95% CI, 39.5-42.6%) than males (35.1%, 95% CI, 33.1 -37.2%) (p < 0.001). Furthermore, the severity of DED was more severe in women (p = 0.006). The associated risk factors were age, female, depression, smoking, insomnia, and glaucoma. On the other hand, 53.6% of these populations were diagnosed as asymptomatic DED, and the morbidity was higher in males (p = 0.007). CONCLUSIONS: The prevalence of DED in China was relatively high, which was associated with aging, female(sex), depression, smoking and sleep problems. Hence, it is crucial for clinicians and caregivers to be aware of the existence of asymptomatic DED within the susceptible population.

Spontaneous remission of vision degrading myodesopsia of posterior vitreous detachment type.

PURPOSE: The study aims to observe the spontaneous remission of posterior vitreous detachment (PVD)-type vision degrading myodesopsia (VDM) during long-term follow-up. METHODS: We retrospectively reviewed VDM patients with PVD type that refused any treatment. The ratio and time of significant spontaneous remission of floater symptoms occurring were described. The associated factors with significant remission of floater symptoms were analyzed in the univariate and multivariate logistic regression analyses. RESULTS: In total, 179 patients with VDM were assessed. The mean age of all patients was 60.56 ± 0.47 years old, and the mean duration of follow-up was 23.89 ± 6.63 months. Of the patients, 40.78% have significant improvement in their floater symptoms after mean 16.55 ± 10.63-month follow-up. Myopia (OR = 0.280, 95% CI = 0.084-0.932, P = 0.038), the number of floaters > 3 (OR = 0.343, 95% CI = 0.172-0.683, P = 0.002), and floaters with string-like pattern (OR = 0.370, 95% CI = 0.166-0.824, P = 0.015) and blocky pattern (OR = 0.299, 95% CI = 0.090-0.993, P = 0.049) were negatively correlated with the significant spontaneous remission of VDM symptoms in the multiple binary logistic regression analysis. CONCLUSIONS: Approximately 40% of VDM patients with PVD may experience significant spontaneous remission during long-term follow-up. Patients that are non-myopic and with fewer floaters are more likely to feel relief from VDM symptoms. Floaters with string-like or blocky patterns are less likely to undergo spontaneous remission.

Vision degrading myodesopsia assessed with optos ultra-widefield scanning laser ophthalmoscope.

BACKGROUND: To investigate the diagnostic sensitivity of Optos imaging for vision degrading myodesopsia (VDM). METHODS: A total of 420 eyes from 345 patients with VDM were collected in this cross-sectional study. All eyes were classified as having posterior vitreous detachment (PVD) or not having PVD. The sensitivity of Optos imaging for the visibility of vitreous floaters was evaluated. The associated factors with the visibility of vitreous floaters on Optos images were analyzed in univariate and multivariate logistic regression analyses. RESULTS: The mean age of all patients was 56.19 ± 13.89 years old, and 66.67% of patients were female. The vitreous floaters were visible on the ultrasound B scan in all eyes, but only in 47.62% of Optos images (55.29% in eyes with PVD and 15% in eyes without PVD). In the multiple binary logistic regression analysis, age (OR = 1.094, 95%CI = 1.063-1.125, P < 0.001), spherical equivalent (OR = 0.869, 95%CI = 0.791-0.955, P = 0.004) and the distance of the floaters from the retina (OR = 1.191, 95%CI = 1.059-1.339, P = 0.003) were significantly correlated with the visibility of vitreous floaters on Optos images. On Optos images, 25.71% of VDM eyes presented additional retinal abnormalities. CONCLUSIONS: Optos imaging has a low sensitivity for vitreous floaters, particularly in eyes without PVD. On Optos imaging, floaters were more visible in older patients, eyes with greater myopia, and floaters that were further from the retina.

Phaco-goniosynechialysis versus phaco-trabeculectomy in patients with refractory primary angle-closure glaucoma: a comparative study.

PURPOSE: To compare the effects of phacoemulsification with intraocular lens implantation (phaco) combined with goniosynechialysis (phaco + GSL) versus phaco with trabeculectomy (phaco + trab) for the management of primary angle-closure glaucoma (PACG) refractory to peripheral anterior synechiae (PAS) of over 180°. METHODS: This retrospective study followed 77 eyes of 77 patients for at least 6 months. Intraocular pressure (IOP), best-corrected visual acuity (BCVA), number of glaucoma drugs, and PAS were recorded at the preoperative baseline and evaluated at each postoperative follow-up visit. The National Eye Institute Visual Functioning Questionnaire-25 (NEI VFQ-25) was administered to patients enrolled in this study. Pearson's correlation analysis and multivariate linear analysis were performed to identify factors influencing changes in NEI VFQ-25 scores and to identify factors associated with increases in NEI VFQ-25 scores after the operation. RESULTS: In total, seventy-seven eyes were included (43 with phaco + GSL and 34 with phaco + trab). Comparing preoperative baseline and month 6 after surgery measurements revealed that both groups found significant improvements in IOP, PAS, BCVA and the number of glaucoma drugs (P < 0.05). Baseline NEI VFQ-25 scores were similar in the two groups, but there was a significant difference in postoperative NEI VFQ-25 scores (74.47 ± 10.39 in phaco + GSL vs. 69.57 ± 8.54 in phaco + trab, P = 0.048 < 0.05), and the phaco + GSL group had better scores at the time of the last follow-up. The change in preoperative scores and the number of glaucoma drugs was significantly correlated with postoperative scores in the phaco + GSL group. CONCLUSION: Phaco + GSL treatment is as safe and effective as phaco + trab for refractory PACG patients, and patients' subjective experience improved significantly after phaco + GSL surgery.

Comparable postoperative myopic shift in eyes with retinal vascular diseases and vitreomacular interface diseases after phacovitrectomy.

PURPOSE: To compare the predictive refractive error (PRE) of intraocular lens (IOL) power between retinal vascular and vitreomacular interface diseases after phacovitrectomy. METHODS: We retrospectively reviewed patients who underwent phacovitrectomy for various retinal diseases. Patients with retinal vascular diseases and vitreomacular interface diseases were included in group A and group B, respectively. Age- and gender-matched senile cataract patients with phacoemulsification were set as controls. The mean PRE and absolute value of refractive error (ARE) among different groups were compared. The associated risk factors with ARE were also analyzed in the univariate and multivariate analyses. RESULTS: In total, 106 patients (Group A), 108 patients (Group B), and 110 patients as controls were included. The PRE in Group A (- 0.35 ± 0.83D) and Group B (- 0.53 ± 0.74D) were more myopic compared to the control group (- 0.11 ± 0.58D) (p < 0.05). The ARE in Group A (0.70 ± 0.57D) and Group B (0.75 ± 0.51D) were significantly higher compared to the control group (0.47 ± 0.35D) (p < 0.05). There were no significant differences in the PRE and ARE values between the two study groups (p = 0.267 and 0.861, respectively). There were no significant differences of the PRE and ARE in the eyes with silicone oil tamponade (- 0.63 ± 0.75D, 0.81 ± 0.54D) and gas tamponade (- 0.42 ± 0.83D, 0.74 ± 0.56D) (p = 0.693 and 0.988, respectively). In the multivariate model, preoperative LogMAR visual acuity (ß = 0.162, 95%CI = 0.113-0.211, p < 0.001), mean corneal curvature (ß = 0.105, 95% CI = 0.074-0.135, p < 0.001), and age (ß = 0.012, 95% CI = 0.005-0.019, p = 0.001) were all positively correlated with the ARE. CONCLUSIONS: Postoperative myopic shift after phacovitrectomy may be comparable in retinal vascular diseases and vitreomacular interface diseases, no matter the gas or silicone oil tamponade. Older age, steeper corneal curvature, and worse preoperative visual acuity could produce more prediction errors.

Comparison of non-pharmaceutical treatments for evaporative dry eye: a randomised controlled study protocol.

INTRODUCTION: The lipid layer of the tear film is critical to maintaining the integrity of the tear film and absence in the tear film lipid layer (TFLL) is one of the main causes of evaporative dry eye (EDE) in dry eye disease patients, resulting in excessive evaporation (so-called hyperevaporative dry eye). This study protocol will be designed to assess and compare the effects of intense pulsed light (IPL), heated eye mask (HEM), vectored thermal pulsation system (VTPS) and eyelid massage device (EMD) for improving signs and symptoms of EDE. METHODS AND ANALYSIS: Patients with EDE will be randomly divided into IPL, HEM, VTPS and EMD groups and will be followed up for 6 weeks. The primary outcome measure will be non-invasive tear breakup time (NITBUT). The secondary outcome measures will include, TFLL score, meibomian gland quality and expressibility change from baseline conjunctivocorneal staining with fluorescein and lissamine, tear meniscus height, conjunctival hyperaemia (redness score) and ocular surface disease index questionnaire. Additionally, adverse events will be monitored and documented. ETHICS AND DISSEMINATION: Ethics approval number: IRB(2023)K019.01. The findings will be shared regardless of the effect's direction. TRIAL REGISTRATION NUMBER: NCT05923528.

The Influence of Corneal Thickness on Surgically Induced Corneal Astigmatism Derived from Total Keratometry Measured by Anterior Segment Swept-Source OCT.

INTRODUCTION: The purpose of the study was to explore the possible correlations between the anterior segment parameters derived from anterior segment swept-source optical coherence tomography (AS-SS-OCT) with the surgically induced corneal astigmatism (CSIA) calculated from total keratometry (TK) measured by AS-SS-OCT. METHODS: Seventy-one eyes of 67 patients with age-related cataract who underwent phacoemulsification combined with intraocular lens implantation with 2.2-mm incision were included. The CSIA values were calculated from anterior keratometry (CSIAKant) and TK (CSIATK) measured by AS-SS-OCT, respectively. Hotelling's T2 test was used to evaluate the difference. The correlation of CSIA with various parameters derived from AS-SS-OCT was tested with the Spearman correlation coefficient. RESULTS: The centroid of CSIAKant and of CSIATK were 0.31 ± 0.55 D @ 54° and 0.41 ± 0.59 D @ 51°, with no significant difference (F = 1.283, p = 0.281, Hotelling's T2). The mean absolute CSIAKant and CSIATK were 0.58 ± 0.24 D and 0.65 ± 0.28 D. Spearman test showed that the magnitude of CSIAKant was negatively correlated with preoperative peripheral corneal thickness (PCT, p = 0.045) and the magnitude of anterior keratometry (p = 0.044). The magnitude of CSIATK was negatively correlated with preoperative central corneal thickness (CCT, p = 0.003) and preoperative PCT (p = 0.015). CONCLUSIONS: The increased thickness of the peripheral cornea is correlated with the decrease in the magnitude of the CSIA. The correlation we identified between the corneal thickness and the CSIA indicated that certain preoperative parameters should be considered for the prediction of CSIA for a more precise refractive outcome.

Validity of OSDI-6 questionnaire in a Chinese adult population.

This study aimed to evaluate the validity of the Chinese translation version of OSDI-6 (C-OSDI-6) using a virtual set-up questionnaire for dry eye disease. A total of 270 participants (136 males, 50.4% and 134 females, 49.6%) with a mean age of 28.22 ± 9.01 years were assessed, diagnosed under the criteria put forth by Dry Eye Workshop completed the Chinese translated version of the OSDI-12 questionnaire (C-OSDI-12). Validity and psychometric properties were analyzed using the study data on the selected items (a new approach called virtual validation). The six items were extracted from the C-OSDI-12 as suggested by the authors of OSDI-6 and compared. The total scores of C-OSDI-12 and C-OSDI-6 were 30.27 ± 13.19 and 6.95 ± 3.53, respectively. Significant reliability was found between the total C-OSDI-6 score and the total C-OSDI-12 score (r = 0.865, p < 0.001). Infits and outfits of the C-OSDI-6 were between 1.26 and 0.78.The C-OSDI-6 proved valid and psychometrically responsive in Chinese adult dry eye participants. The findings of this virtual validation study need to be confirmed in a longitudinal validation study on real-world use.

Clinical ocular surface characteristics and expression of MUC5AC in diabetics: a population-based study.

OBJECTIVES: To investigate the clinical characteristics and the expression of mucin 5AC (MUC5AC) in in diabetic and non-diabetic subjects with or without dry eye disease. METHODS: A total of 399 participants (796 eyes) aged 50-80 years were enrolled in this study. Participants were divided into 4 groups: non-diabetic without dry eye group (normal group), non-diabetic with dry eye group, diabetic without dry eye group and diabetic with dry eye group. Demographic information, fasting plasma glucose (FBG), and glycated haemoglobin A1C (HbA1C) data were collected. Additionally, ocular surface disease index (OSDI) questionnaire, signs of dry eye, tear osmolarity, and meibomian glands were evaluated. Tear MUC5AC expression and conjunctival goblet cells density (GCD) were tested. RESULTS: Compared with non-diabetic with dry eye group, diabetic with dry eye group showed significantly lower tear film osmolarity (TFO), but higher corneal fluorescein and conjunctival lissamine green staining scores. In comparison with diabetic without dry eye group, diabetic with dry eye group showed significantly higher TFO, corneal fluorescein and conjunctival lissamine green staining scorers. The MUC5AC concentration and GCD of diabetic with dry eye group was significantly lower than those of the non-diabetic with dry eye group. Diabetic subjects with higher HbA1c levels (≥7.8%) showed higher TFO and shorter fluorescein tear break time. CONCLUSION: Diabetics with dry eye exhibited notably higher corneal fluorescein and conjunctival lissamine green staining scores. Conjunctival goblet cells and MUC5AC were significantly reduced in diabetics. Higher TFO was associated with the duration of diabetes and HbA1c levels.

Management of Glaucoma-Related Dry Eye Disease with Intense Pulsed Light: A Randomized Control Study.

Purpose: The objective of this study was to assess the effectiveness of intense pulsed light (IPL) therapy in individuals diagnosed with glaucoma and dry eye disease (DED). Methods: This randomized control study recruited 22 individuals diagnosed with glaucoma, ranging in age from 33 to 82 years. These participants were undergoing treatment with hypotensive eyedrops and had clinical indications and subjective complaints associated with dry eye. Each patient underwent three sessions of IPL therapy in one eye, while the contralateral eye served as the control eye (CT). The following parameters were assessed at three time points: baseline, week-2, and week-4. These parameters include non-invasive breakup time (NITBUT), tear meniscus height (TMH), conjunctivocorneal epithelial staining score (CS), tear film lipid layer (TFLL), meibomian gland expressibility score (MGEx), Schirmer I test, ocular bulbar redness score (OBRS), and ocular surface disease index (OSDI). Intraocular pressure (IOP), best-corrected visual acuity (BCVA), and corneal endothelial cell count (ECC) were assessed for safety. The clinical trial was registered on 25/12/2023 at ClinicalTrials.gov website (NCT06158984). Results: Comparing baseline and 4-week measurements revealed that the IPL group found significant improvements in NITBUT (IPL: 8.74±2.60 sec. vs CT: 5.76±1.75 sec. p<0.01), TMH (IPL: 0.23±0.05mm vs CT: 0.19±0.06mm, p=0.011), C.S. (IPL: 1.14±0.56 vs CT: 1.95±1.17, p=0.005), TFLL (IPL: 2.91±2.91 vs CT:3.36±0.58, p=0.047), MGEx score (IPL: 1.14±0.35 vs CT: 1.45±0.51, p=0.020) and OSDI scores (IPL: 31.77±15.59 vs 50.59±21.55, p=0.002) significantly improved. Conversely, other parameters showed no significant improvements (p>0.05). Conclusion: The progression of ocular surface disease in individuals using topical anti-glaucoma medication may worsen if the condition is not addressed. Nevertheless, IPL therapy has the potential to result in significant improvements in both objective and subjective measures of dry eye. Best-corrected visual acuity, endothelial cell count, and intraocular pressure were determined to be within the permitted limits. No adverse events were reported during the course of the study.

The results show that people who use topical medicines to treat glaucoma may get worse eye surface disease if they do not treat the problem. IPL treatment, on the other hand, can make a big difference in both objective and subjective dry eye tests. The vision, endothelial cell count, and the pressure inside the eye were all found to be within normal limits after the IPL treatment. Even though the people in our study had glaucoma and had been taking glaucoma medicine for it for a year and the fact that the symptoms last for a long time may also change the results. Also, DED caused by glaucoma medication is complicated, with a lot of different symptoms and signs, even in the same stage. Also, subjective complaints may not match up with clinical signs. The type, amount, and length of anti-glaucoma drugs may have affected the results.

The Effects of Repeated Low-Level Red-Light Therapy on the Structure and Vasculature of the Choroid and Retina in Children with Premyopia.

INTRODUCTION: The purpose of this study was to explore the effects of repeated low-level red-light (RLRL) therapy on the structure and vasculature of the choroid and retina in Chinese children with premyopia. METHODS: This study was a single-center randomized clinical trial. A total of 94 children with premyopia (- 0.50 D < spherical equivalent [SE] ≤ + 0.75 D) were randomly assigned to either the RLRL therapy or control group. Follow-up visits were planned at 1, 3, 6, 9, and 12 months. Optical coherence biometry was used to measure axial length (AL) and anterior segment parameters. Choroidal thickness (CT), retinal thickness (RT), superficial retinal vascular density (SRVD), deep retinal vascular density (DRVD), choriocapillaris perfusion area (CCPA), and choroidal vessel volume (CVV) were measured by optical coherence tomography angiography, centered on the foveal, parafoveal (ParaF), and perifoveal (PeriF) regions. RESULTS: The thickening of the choroid was observed across the entire macular region at different time points in the RLRL therapy group. Relative to the baseline measurement, foveal CT significantly increased at the 1-month follow-up with RLRL therapy, with a mean (± standard deviation [SD]) adjusted change of 16.96 ± 19.87 µm. The greatest magnitude of foveal CT changes was observed at the 3-month visit (an increase of 19.58 ± 20.59 µm), with a slight reduction in the extent of foveal CT increase at the 6-month visit (an increase of 15.85 ± 23.77 µm). The second greatest CT increase was observed at the 9-month visit (an increase of 19.57 ± 35.51 µm), after which the extent of CT increase gradually decreased until the end of the study at the 12-month visit (an increase of 11.99 ± 32.66 µm). We also observed a significant increase in CT in the ParaF and PeriF areas in the RLRL group over 12 months. In contrast, CT across the entire macular region in the control group significantly decreased throughout the follow-up visits (all P < 0.05). Regarding the vascular parameters of the choroid, significant increases in CVV were observed primarily in the ParaF and PeriF regions of the choroid in the RLRL group. In comparison, the control group exhibited decreases in CVV throughout the entire area. Furthermore, notable elevations in CCPA were detected in the PeriF area of the choroid in the RLRL group during the 1-month (an increase of 0.40 mm2), 3-month (an increase of 0.25 mm2), and 12-month visits (an increase of 0.42 mm2) (all P < 0.05). In addition, no notable differences were observed between the groups regarding foveal RT and retinal vascular parameters throughout the 12 months (P > 0.05). Notably, RLRL therapy achieved a notable reduction in SE shift by 73.8%, a substantial decrease in AL change by 67.9%, and a significant reduction in myopia incidence by 45.1% within 1 year. CONCLUSION: Our study demonstrated a significant increase in CT and flow in the RLRL-treated eyes throughout the 12-months of the study. Combined with its reduction in spherical equivalent progression and axial elongation, RLRL could be used as an effective therapy for preventing progression in premyopes. TRIAL REGISTRATION: ChiCTR2200062028.

Effects of Diquafosol Sodium Ophthalmic Solution on Tear Film Matrix Metallopeptidase-9 and Corneal Nerve Density in Patients with Type 2 Diabetic Dry Eye.

Purpose: Diabetes mellitus has been associated with increased dry eye disease (DED) and exacerbates DED's pathology. This preliminary short-term study aimed to evaluate the effects of 3% Diquafosol Sodium ophthalmic solution (DQS) on ocular surface inflammation and corneal nerve density in diabetic dry eye (DDE) patients. Methods: In this perspective, participants used 1 drop of 3% DQS (Diquas; Santen Pharmaceutical Co., Ltd., Osaka, Japan) 6 times daily for 8 weeks. Non-invasive tear breakup time (NITBUT), tear film lipid layer (TFLL), conjunctival hyperemia [redness score (RS)], corneoconjunctival staining (CFS), corneal sensitivity (CS), Meibomian gland quality (MGQ) and Meibomian gland expressibility (MGEx), corneal nerve fiber density (CNFD), and Standard Patient Evaluation Eye Dryness (SPEED) questionnaire were assessed at baseline, at weeks 4, and up to 8 weeks. Matrix metalloproteinase-9 (MMP-9) of tear samples was measured at baseline and weeks 8. Results: The mean age was 61.27 ± 11.68 years. At baseline NITBUT = 5.89 ± 2.81 s, tear meniscus height = 0.17 ± 0.05 mm, TFLL = 2.74 ± 0.51, CFS = 4.35 ± 0.68, CS = 53.83 ± 9.63 mm, MMP-9 = 49.10 ± 10.42 ng/mL, RS = 1.65 ± 0.44, MGEx = 1.85 ± 0.72, MGQ = 2.65 ± 0.50, CNFD = 20.36 ± 8.20 no./mm2, and SPEED = 12.62 ± 3.91. At week 4, significant improvements were found in all parameters except RS (1.59 ± 0.46, P = 0.172) and CNFD (21.46 ± 8.41, P = 0.163). Finally, at week 8, all parameters had significant improvements. Conclusion: Preliminary short-term findings suggest that treatment of DDE patients with DQS was found to be safe and efficacious in improving dry eye parameters. In addition, inflammatory marker and corneal nerve density were significantly improved. This study was registered with ClinicalTrials.gov (NCT05193331).

Blood inflammatory biomarkers in participants with idiopathic epiretinal membrane: A retrospective case series study.

The objective was to evaluate the levels of monocyte-to-lymphocyte ratio (MLR), neutrophil-to-lymphocyte ratio (NLR) and platelet-to-lymphocyte ratio (PLR) in patients with idiopathic epiretinal membrane (iERM). This retrospective case series study comprised of participants with iERM and participants with cataract. The values of MLR, NLR, PLR and from participants' peripheral blood were assessed among groups. The best cutoff value of MLR, NLR, and PLR in iERM was found by performing a receiver operating characteristic curve analysis and determining the optimum cutoff value for each variable. In total, 95 participants with iERM were included in the study group, and 61 participants with senile cataract were included as controls. The lymphocyte count in the iERM group was significantly lower than the control group (1.69 ± 0.63 vs. 1.95 ± 0.53, P = .003). The monocyte count in the iERM group was significantly higher than the control group (0.39 ± 0.11 vs. 0.31 ± 0.10, P < .001). The area under the curve of MLR, NLR, and PLR in differentiating patients with IERM and controls was 0.782, 0.645, and 0.657, respectively, according to receiver operating characteristic. The best cutoff value of MLR was > 0.18, with sensitivity and specificity of 74.7% and 75.4%, respectively. The NLR was > 2.06, with a sensitivity and specificity of 50.5% and 83.6%, respectively. The PLR was > 95.89, with a sensitivity and specificity of 86.3% and 41.0%, respectively. The findings of this study suggest that systemic inflammation may be associated with iERM. IERM patients may be prone to have high MLR, NLR, and PLR values.

Efficacy of intense pulsed light therapy on signs and symptoms of dry eye disease: A meta-analysis and systematic review.

This study reviewed the efficacy and safety of intense pulsed light (IPL) for the treatment of dry eye disease (DED). The PubMed database was used to conduct the literature search, which used the keywords "intense pulsed light" and "dry eye disease". After the authors evaluated the articles for relevancy, 49 articles were reviewed. In general, all treatment modalities were proven to be clinically effective in reducing dry eye (DE) signs and symptoms; however, the level of improvement and persistence of outcomes differed amongst them. Meta-analysis indicated significant improvement in the Ocular Surface Disease Index (OSDI) scores post-treatment with a standardized mean difference (SMD) = -1.63; confidence interval (CI): -2.42 to -0.84. Moreover, a meta-analysis indicated a significant improvement in tear break-up time (TBUT) test values with SMD = 1.77; CI: 0.49 to 3.05. Research suggests that additive therapies, such as meibomian gland expression (MGX), sodium hyaluronate eye drops, heated eye mask, warm compress, lid hygiene, lid margin scrub, eyelid massage, antibiotic drops, cyclosporine drops, omega-3 supplements, steroid drops, and warm compresses along with IPL, have been found to work in tandem for greater effectiveness; however, in clinical practice, its feasibility and cost-effectiveness have to be taken into consideration. Current findings suggest that IPL therapy is suitable when lifestyle modifications such as reducing or eliminating the use of contact lenses, lubricating eye drops/gels, and warm compresses/eye masks fail to improve signs and symptoms of DE. Moreover, patients with compliance issues have been shown to benefit well as the effects of IPL therapy is sustained for over several months. DED is a multifactorial disorder, and IPL therapy has been found to be safe and efficient in reducing its signs and symptoms of meibomian gland dysfunction (MGD)-related DE. Although the treatment protocol varies among authors, current findings suggest that IPL has a positive effect on the signs and symptoms of MGD-related DE. However, patients in the early stages can benefit more from IPL therapy. Moreover, IPL has a better maintenance impact when used in conjunction with other traditional therapies. Further research is needed to assess cost-utility analysis for IPL.

Asymptomatic stones in the lacrimal canaliculus.

Key Clinical Message: Asymptomatic lacrimal canaliculus stones causing many stones without symptoms are rare. The patient recovered well within a week after dacryolith removal. This diagnosis is prevalent in this age group. However, asymptomatic nasolacrimal obstruction should be considered. Abstract: Dacryoliths, also known as symptomatic stones, are frequently observed in the lacrimal drainage system. These stones manifest through symptoms such as conjunctivitis, discharge, and epiphora. Nevertheless, the occurrence of numerous stones in the lacrimal canaliculus, in the absence of apparent symptoms, is uncommon. In this study, we present a case with the presence of several stones within the inferior lacrimal canaliculus. A female patient, aged 74, appeared with bilateral senile cataracts and was scheduled for cataract surgery. During a standard ocular examination, it was observed that the tear meniscus height in the left eye had a greater magnitude compared with the right eye. Canaliculitis with dacryolith was verified using a series of diagnostic procedures, including physical inspection, fluorescent dye disappearance test, palpation, 50 Mhz ultrasound biomicroscope scan, and irrigation of the lacrimal canaliculi. Upon surgical investigation, the canaliculus obstruction was confirmed, characterized by the existence of many tiny dacryolith formations inside the inferior canalicular system. Following the surgical excision of the dacryoliths, the patient experienced a full remission within a week. While it is common for individuals in this age range to receive this diagnosis, it is important to consider silent nasolacrimal blockage as a potential alternative diagnosis. It is important to note that the presence of dacryoliths in the lacrimal drainage system might manifest independently of conjunctivitis. No discernible risk indicators were found in relation to the aforementioned patient.

Protocol for a parallel assignment prospective, randomised, double-blinded, placebo-controlled trial to evaluate the efficacy of 0.01% atropine for near work-induced transient myopia and myopic progression in China.

INTRODUCTION: Assessment of near work-induced transient myopia (NITM) is important for permanent myopia development and progression. Atropine eye drop has been reported to be beneficial in reducing initial NITM and slowing down myopic progression. This study aimed to investigate the efficacy of 0.01% atropine in treating NITM and its possible association with the progression of refractive change in Chinese myopic children. METHODS AND ANALYSIS: The study is designed as a parallel assignment prospective, randomised, double-blinded, placebo-controlled trial conducted at He Eye Specialist Hospital in Shenyang, China. One hundred fifty participants will be randomly assigned in a 1:1 ratio to receive 0.01% atropine or placebo eye drop once nightly bilaterally for 1 year. Initial NITM, cycloplegic refraction, axial length, best-corrected visual acuity, intraocular pressure and pupil diameter will be measured at baseline, 4 weeks, 12 weeks, 24 weeks, 36 weeks and 48 weeks. Visual Function Questionnaire will be administered at baseline and each follow-up visit. Adverse events also will be monitored and documented at each subsequent follow-up visit. ETHICS AND DISSEMINATION: A parallel assignment prospective, randomised, double-blinded, placebo-controlled trial to evaluate the efficacy of 0.01% atropine for near work-induced transient myopia and myopic progression registered on 10 September 2023. Ethics approval number: IRB (2023) K025.01. The study's findings will be shared regardless of the effect's direction. TRIAL REGISTRATION NUMBER: NCT06034366.

Managing Severe Evaporative Dry Eye with Intense Pulsed Light Therapy.

INTRODUCTION: This study assessed the efficacy and safety of intense pulsed light (IPL) therapy in participants with severe evaporative dry eye disease (DED). METHODS: This randomized, controlled, single-center study included 49 adult participants (≥ 18 years) with severe evaporative DED who received either IPL therapy (n = 56 eyes) or sham therapy (n = 42 eyes) three times. The primary efficacy parameters were ocular surface disease index (OSDI) score, non-invasive tear breakup time (NITBUT), tear film lipid layer (TFLL), conjunctivocorneal staining score (CS), MG Score, meibomian gland (MG) quality, and MG expression score. RESULTS: The mean ages for the IPL group and the control group were 28.05 ± 3.41 years (57.1% female) and 28.14 ± 3.53 years (52.4% female), respectively. Comparison between the IPL group and the control group found significant differences in the mean OSDI score (22.16 ± 6.08 vs. 42.38 ± 6.60; P < 00.01), NITBUT (6.27 ± 0.84 vs. 3.86 ± 0.68; P < 0.001), TFLL (2.14 ± 0.44 vs. 3.45 ± 0.50; P < 0.001), MG Score (1.34 ± 0.55 vs. 1.88 ± 0.33; P < 0.001), MG quality (1.59 ± 0.07 vs. 2.67 ± 0.08), and MG expression (1.54 ± 0.57 vs. 2.45 ± 0.55) at 12 weeks follow-up; however, there was no significant difference in CS (3.32 ± 1.11 vs. 3.74 ± 1.04; P = 0.063). CONCLUSION: The findings suggest that IPL therapy is clinically beneficial in ameliorating the signs and symptoms of severe evaporative dry eye disease.

Relationship between ocular surface pain and corneal nerve loss in dry eye diabetics: a cross-sectional study in Shenyang, China.

BACKGROUND: Diabetes mellitus has been associated with increased dry eye disease (DED) and exacerbates DED pathology. OBJECTIVE: To investigate the potential relationship between corneal nerve loss and ocular pain among diabetic patients with dry eye (DE). DESIGN: A cross-sectional study. SETTING: He Eye Specialist Hospital, Shenyang, China. PARTICIPANTS: This study recruited 124 eyes of 62 diabetic patients diagnosed with DED between August and October 2022. MAIN OUTCOME MEASURES: Best-corrected visual acuity, intraocular pressure, non-invasive tear breakup time, tear meniscus height, tear film lipid layer, conjunctival hyperaemia (redness score), conjunctivocorneal epithelial staining (CS score), central corneal sensitivity and vitro confocal corneal microscopy was assessed in all subjects. The Ocular Surface Disease Index Questionnaire assessed DE symptoms and ocular pain. RESULTS: The study's final analysis included 26 patients (52 eyes) without ocular pain and 36 patients (72 eyes) with ocular pain. The corneal nerve fibre density (CNFD), corneal nerve branch density (CNBD) and corneal nerve fibre length (CNFL) in patients with ocular pain were significantly lower than those without (p<0.001, p=0.004, and p<0.001, respectively). CNFD, CNBD and CNFL negatively correlated with ocular pain (r=-0.385, r=-0.260, r=-0.358, respectively). Moreover, CNFD, CNBD and CNFL have a significant (p<0.05) positive correlation with corneal sensitivity (r=0.523, r=0.330, r=0.421, respectively). CONCLUSIONS: Corneal nerve loss was associated with ocular pain and decreased corneal sensitivity in diabetic patients with DE. Further studies into the neurological role of ocular surface diseases can elaborate diagnostics, prognosis and treatment of diabetic patients with DE. TRIAL REGISTRATION NUMBER: ClinicalTrials.gov (NCT05193331).