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This study aimed to compare the effect of intranasal (IN) and intramuscular (IM) administration of butorphanol and zolazepam‐tiletamine (ZT) combination on intraocular pressure (IOP) and tear secretion (TS) in rabbits. Fourteen healthy male New Zealand White rabbits weighing 3.05 ± 0.72 kg, aged between 1 and 2 years old, were included in the study. Animals randomly received 0.5 mg/kg butorphanol and 15 mg/kg ZT combination either with IN or IM administration. IOP and TS were measured at baseline (T0), and followed by 5, 15, 30, 45, and 60 min after drug administration. The sedation variables, the time to onset of sedation, duration of sedation, and sedation scores were also recorded. The route of administration for the butorphanol and ZT combination had no significant effect on the mean IOP (p =.301) and TS (p =.445). Furthermore, there were no significant changes observed in the IOP (p =.472) and TS (p =.348) over time. The time to onset of sedation was earlier in the IN group (4.57 ± 0.79 min) than in the IM group (5.86 ± 0.9 min; p =.0004). The duration of sedation was significantly longer for IM (57.43 ± 3.41 min) compared with IN (45.0 ± 1.91 min; p <.0001). No significant difference in the sedation score was observed between groups at all time points. In conclusion, both IN and IM administration of the butorphanol and ZT combination in rabbits had similar effects on IOP and TS. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Most persons with obesity who have undergone gastric bypass surgery present depressive symptoms. Depression and anxiety have been associated with tear film disorders. This study aimed to investigate whether there is a correlation between tear film conditions and depression symptoms in patients subjected to bariatric surgery. The participants completed a Patient Health Questionnaire to detect depression symptoms. The break-up time and Schirmer test were subsequently applied; the measurements were performed three times, and the average time was subsequently recorded. The results revealed that the Schirmer test score and PH-9 score were negatively correlated, but this was not the case for the break-up time test. Depression symptoms may correlate with lower tear production from the principal tear gland, but they may not have the same effect on meibomian gland production in adults undergoing bariatric surgery. In addition to routine control, bariatric surgery patients should be periodically evaluated by an ophthalmologist and/or psychologist who is aware of potential comorbidities. Furthermore, the observed association between depression symptoms and tear deficiencies highlights the importance of further investigations to gain a better understanding of these mechanisms. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Most persons with obesity who have undergone gastric bypass surgery present depressive symptoms. Depression and anxiety have been associated with tear film disorders. This study aimed to investigate whether there is a correlation between tear film conditions and depression symptoms in patients subjected to bariatric surgery. The participants completed a Patient Health Questionnaire to detect depression symptoms. The break-up time and Schirmer test were subsequently applied; the measurements were performed three times, and the average time was subsequently recorded. The results revealed that the Schirmer test score and PH-9 score were negatively correlated, but this was not the case for the break-up time test. Depression symptoms may correlate with lower tear production from the principal tear gland, but they may not have the same effect on meibomian gland production in adults undergoing bariatric surgery. In addition to routine control, bariatric surgery patients should be periodically evaluated by an ophthalmologist and/or psychologist who is aware of potential comorbidities. Furthermore, the observed association between depression symptoms and tear deficiencies highlights the importance of further investigations to gain a better understanding of these mechanisms.

OBJECTIVE: High-pressure physiological saline isotonic solution (HPpSIS) delivery into the nasal cavity was found to modulate the local expression of immune cells, increase NGF protein, and enhance the NGF receptors' expression. Since the nasal cavity directly communicates with the eye and as NGF was previously found to ameliorate the symptoms of dry eye when topically delivered, the aim of this study was to establish whether the HPpSIS might ameliorate ocular dryness and tear film composition. SUBJECTS AND METHODS: This is an observational self-controlled case study carried out on 16 patients with dry-eye diagnosis, concerning 3-month self-administration of HPpSIS and two serial assessments of the ocular surface and tear film. OSDI questionnaire was used for ocular symptoms of dryness. BUT and Schirmer tests were used for qualitative and quantitative tear film analysis. The lipid composition was also examined. R-studio was employed for the detection of the difference between the pre- and post-analysis. RESULTS: On the basis of the OSDI questionnaire, the study population was divided into severe (61.1%), moderate (5.5%), and mild (16.6%) dry-eye symptoms. OSDI score was significantly reduced after HPpSIS (p<0.05). BUT and TMH values also ameliorated after HPpSIS (p>0.05), although not significantly. The lipid layer improved statistically (p<0.05) and correlated positively with OSDI grading. The variability of presentation in the numerical distribution before and after therapy suggests poor test sensitivity. CONCLUSIONS: HPpSIS showed a positive effect in reducing OSDI scores and ameliorating tear film quality. The possibility of an endogenous HPpSIS-induced NGF should be taken into account in dry-eye therapy. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objectives:To compare dry eye parameters in prolactinoma patients and healthy controls and evaluate their correlation with prolactin (PRL) levels and the duration of hyperprolactinemia.Materials and Methods:Consecutive patients with prolactinoma and healthy controls were included in the study. Schirmer, tear break-up time (TBUT), tear osmolarity values, and ocular surface disease index (OSDI) scores were evaluated for each patient. Follow-up time and total duration of hyperprolactinemia were recorded for prolactinoma patients.Results:The study included 39 eyes of 39 patients with prolactinoma and 39 eyes of 39 age- and gender-matched healthy controls. Prolactinoma patients showed lower Schirmer (14.1±8.4 vs. 24.8±8.9 mm; p

Previous meta-analyses have shown a superiority of acupuncture over artificial tear for treating typical dry eye syndrome (DES). However, given that the acupuncture protocols were quite diverse in the randomized controlled trials (RCTs) included in the meta-analyses, it is necessary to establish the acupuncture guidelines. Thus, the optimal acupuncture protocol involved in improvements of tear-film breakup time (BUT) or Schirmer tear test (STT) was examined by meta-analyses for RCTs in patients with typical DES. Eight databases until Jun 2018 were searched for 21 RCTs (n = 1542 eyes) comparing effectiveness of acupuncture versus artificial tear control. Indirect comparison of Bucher analysis was used to find specific acupoints (SAPs) improving BUT or STT by comparing the outcomes between subgroups of the RCTs including and excluding certain SAPs. Meta-analysis was examined for the outcomes in subgroups of the RCTs based on the number of SAPs, and network meta-analysis was for multiple pairwise comparisons across the protocols using the SAPs to yield relative effects. The Bucher analyses identified nine SAPs with positive effects on BUT or STT, and the positive relations of two SAPs involved in improvements of both BUT and STT suggested potential combinations of three (‘KI3–LI4–SP6’ or ‘KI3–GB14–ST2’) or four SAPs (‘KI3–BL1–EX-HN7–SP6’). Subgroup meta-analyses showed the SAP-depending improvements of BUT or STT in the subgroups including more than three SAPs, compared with the artificial tear control. Meta-regression and network meta-analyses revealed significant correlations between the number of SAPs and the improvements of BUT and STT, and demonstrated that acupuncture using four SAPs for 21–30 days, particularly at two–three times per week, can be optimal for improving the symptoms of typical DES. These results provide useful information for guiding acupuncture in clinical trials for DES.

Purpose: To measure tear osmolarity, Schirmer I test and tear break-up time (TBUT) values in the obstructed and non-obstructed fellow eye of unilateral primary acquired nasolacrimal duct obstruction (PANDO) patients and compare them with healthy controls. Methods: In this prospective noninterventional study, the tear osmolarity, Schirmer I test, and TBUT values from unilateral PANDO eyes, fellow eyes, and control eyes of all subjects were measured. Results: The study included 114 eyes of 30 PANDO patients as well as 27 healthy controls. There was a significant difference between TBUT and Schirmer values of fellow eyes and PANDO eyes (p = 0,035; p = 0,001). There was no significant difference in any of the ocular surface parameters between PANDO eyes and control eyes (p > 0.05). When fellow eyes were compared to control eyes, there was a significant difference in TBUT (p = 0.046). Conclusions: Decreased TBUT was exhibited by the fellow eye of unilateral PANDO patients, compared to the PANDO side and controls. Compensatory changes in PANDO eyes due to a decrease in the tear secretion reflex may lead to tear dysfunction of the fellow eye. Clinicians should assess tear stability in the fellow eye of PANDO patients as this could be leading to added symptomatic complaints. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

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La queratoconjuntivitis seca (QCS) es una enfermedad inflamatoria que afecta la córnea y conjuntiva generando signos oculares como resequedad de la córnea, ulceraciones, pigmentación, vascularización y disminución significativa de la cantidad de la producción lagrimal que es secretada por las glándulas lagrimales, tarsales y ciliares apocrinas. El objetivo de esta investigación fue determinar la incidencia de QCS con el método diagnóstico cuantitativo “test de Schirmer”, y relacionarlo con el grupo etario, la presión ocular y la glucemia. En la metodología empleada se realizó una valoración clínica oftalmológica a perros braquiocefálicos de la ciudad de Machala (Ecuador), aparentemente sanos tomando en cuenta el sexo y registro etario. Se organizaron 3 grupos de estudio de 6 meses a 2 años de edad (AdE), de 2,5 a 5 AdE y mayores a 6 AdE. Para el diagnóstico de QCS se empleó la tira de papel absorbente “test de Schirmer” comercial. La incidencia de QCS en los perros braquiocefálicos fue del 27,3 %, encontrándose el 40 % de éstos en edades entre los 2,5 a 5 AdE sin relación estadística. Un tercio de los animales (33,3 %), presentaron una presión intraocular alta sin relación a la presencia de la QCS en el grupo etario afectado. La alta incidencia de la QC lleva a implementar en las clínicas veterinarias, exámenes oftalmológicos preventivos a los pacientes braquiocefálicos ya que tienen cierta predisposición por su anatomía a padecer esta patología.

Objectives: To compare dry eye parameters in prolactinoma patients and healthy controls and evaluate their correlation with prolactin (PRL) levels and the duration of hyperprolactinemia. Materials and Methods: Consecutive patients with prolactinoma and healthy controls were included in the study. Schirmer, tear break-up time (TBUT), tear osmolarity values, and ocular surface disease index (OSDI) scores were evaluated for each patient. Follow-up time and total duration of hyperprolactinemia were recorded for prolactinoma patients. Results: The study included 39 eyes of 39 patients with prolactinoma and 39 eyes of 39 age- and gender-matched healthy controls. Prolactinoma patients showed lower Schirmer (14.1±8.4 vs. 24.8±8.9 mm; p<0.001) and TBUT values (7.0±3.2 vs. 11.6±2.6 s; p<0.001) and higher OSDI scores (20.6±16.6 vs. 5.8±2.4; p<0.001) compared to the healthy controls. While the mean osmolarity of the prolactinoma patients was 301.6±8.3 mOsm/L, it was 297.7±12.5 mOsm/L for the healthy controls (p=0.07). The duration of hyperprolactinemia in prolactinoma patients showed a negative correlation with Schirmer (r=-0.395; p=0.013) and TBUT values (r=- 0.377; p=0.018) and a positive correlation with OSDI scores (r=0.337; p=0.036). Conclusion: Prolactinoma patients had significantly lower Schirmer and TBUT levels and higher OSDI scores compared to the healthy controls, but no significant difference in tear osmolarity. The effect of high PRL levels on tear film function was duration-dependent. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose: Upper blepharoplasty may be related to dry eye symptoms since the function of the orbicularis oculi muscle may affect the tear film. We aimed to assess the effect of blepharoplasty with or without the removal of a strip of orbicularis oculi muscle on tear film dynamics and dry eye symptoms. Methods: A double‐blind, randomized, controlled trial comparing upper blepharoplasty without (group A) or with (group B) orbicularis oculi muscle excision was performed on 54 healthy Caucasian patients. Tear film dynamics and dry eye symptoms were evaluated using multiple dry eye parameters, i.e. tear osmolarity, Schirmer test I, corneal/conjunctival staining, tear break‐up time (TBUT), Oxford Scheme, Sicca Ocular Staining Score and Ocular Surface Disease Index questionnaire. All the parameters were assessed preoperatively and 6 and 12 months after upper blepharoplasty. All the groups' outcomes were compared. Results: The differences were not significant between the two upper blepharoplasty techniques regarding most of the above‐mentioned outcomes. Subjective symptoms of ocular irritation, consistent with dry eye disease and vision‐related impairment, were reduced after upper blepharoplasty independent of the type of the technique applied, while the pre and postoperative outcomes of the objective tear dynamics did not differ 12 months after surgery. However, group B demonstrated a significant increase in tear osmolarity and TBUT at the 6‐month follow‐up visit. Conclusion: An upper blepharoplasty alleviates subjective dry eye complaints in the long term, while not changing the tear dynamics. The improvement was independent of the blepharoplasty technique used. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background/Aim: During the pandemic, eye symptoms increased. This study aimed to investigate the effects of online education on ocular surface symptoms, which was a part of the distance learning model during the COVID-19 pandemic, to be able to prevent the formation of irreversible damage. Methods: This cohort study included 315 students who were undertaking online education and presented at the Ophthalmology Department of a university hospital. The sociodemographic data, Schirmer test results, tear break-up time (TBUT) and Ocular Surface Disease Index (OSDI) scores of the students were noted. The data were analyzed using SPSS v. 22.0 software and a value of P<0.05 was considered statistically significant. Results: Evaluation was made of 315 students with a mean age of 14.48 (5.86) years (range: 6-29 years). Of these, 159 were studying at a high school or university, and 267 had been participating in online education for ≥6 hours per week. New symptoms had developed in the eyes of 213. The Schirmer test results were 8.74 (3.76) mm in the right eye and 8.90 (3.86) mm in the left eye. TBUT was 9.95(3.60) seconds in the right eye and 10.15 (3.58) seconds in the left. The mean OSDI score was 26.39 (11.85). OSDI was significantly negatively correlated with the Schirmer results and TBUT (r= -0.883, P<0.05, r= - 0.793, P<0.05, respectively), while Schirmer and TBUT were positively correlated (r=0.871, P<0.05). Conclusion: With the continuation of education online during the COVID-19 pandemic, televisions, computers, and tablets were commonly used. This increased screen time led to the development of new symptoms causing significant changes in the OSDI, TBUT, and Schirmer tests. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Acupuncture is a treatment option for dry eye syndrome (DES), but its efficacy remains still controversial. We assessed the effectiveness of this treatment for typical DES without specific aetiologies. Eight databases up through June 2018 were searched for randomized clinical trials (RCTs) comparing treatments of acupuncture with artificial tears. The risk of bias was assessed using Cochrane criteria, and a random effects model was used for meta‐analyses on tear‐film breakup time (BUT), Schirmer test, corneal fluorescein staining (CFS), ocular surface disease index, visual analogue scale and score of symptoms (SOS). Subgroup and sensitivity analyses were conducted to explore the heterogeneity, and publication bias was assessed by funnel plot using Egger's test. Twenty‐one RCTs in 19 studies (n = 1542 eyes) met our eligible criteria. The results demonstrated the superiority of acupuncture in improving the symptoms of BUT, Schirmer test, CFS and SOS, compared to artificial tears acting alone. The BUT and Schirmer test were also more improved in acupuncture combination with artificial tears than artificial tears alone. Further subgroup analyses suggest that acupuncture applied at 2.0–3.0 times per week for 21–30 days may be optimal for treating typical DES. This provides useful information for guiding acupuncture in the clinical trials. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Copyright of Acta Musei Brukenthal is the property of Brukenthal National Museum and its content may not be copied or emailed to multiple sites or posted to a listserv without the copyright holder's express written permission. However, users may print, download, or email articles for individual use. This abstract may be abridged. No warranty is given about the accuracy of the copy. Users should refer to the original published version of the material for the full abstract. (Copyright applies to all Abstracts.)

Copyright of Journal of Veterinary Research / Majallah-i Taḥqīqāt-i Dāmpizishkī University is the property of University of Tehran and its content may not be copied or emailed to multiple sites or posted to a listserv without the copyright holder's express written permission. However, users may print, download, or email articles for individual use. This abstract may be abridged. No warranty is given about the accuracy of the copy. Users should refer to the original published version of the material for the full abstract. (Copyright applies to all Abstracts.)

Copyright of German as a Foreign Language is the property of German as a Foreign Language and its content may not be copied or emailed to multiple sites or posted to a listserv without the copyright holder's express written permission. However, users may print, download, or email articles for individual use. This abstract may be abridged. No warranty is given about the accuracy of the copy. Users should refer to the original published version of the material for the full abstract. (Copyright applies to all Abstracts.)

Abstract The purpose of this study was to investigate the effects of acute exercise on environmentally induced symptoms of dry eye. Twelve participants without dry eye disease volunteered to complete three experimental visits in a randomized order; (1) control condition seated for 1 h at a relative humidity (RH) of 40% (CONT), (2) dry condition seated for 1 h at a RH of 20% (DRY), and (3) exercise condition seated for 40 min followed by 20 min of cycling exercise at a RH of 20% (EXER). Tear volume, tear matrix metalloproteinase 9 (MMP‐9), perception of dry eye symptoms (frequency and severity), core temperature, and ocular surface temperature (OST) were measured at the end of each exposure. The perception of dry eye frequency and MMP‐9 concentration were significantly higher in DRY compared to CONT (P

Objectives: To assess ocular abnormalities in psoriatic patients (new-cases versus patients under treatment) in comparison with healthy controls. Methods: A total of 200 psoriatic patients and 100 healthy controls were enrolled in this prospective, observational study. The demographic data of the individuals were recorded. Dermatological and ophthalmologic examinations were conducted; ocular surface disease index (OSDI), Schirmer's and tear break-up time (TBUT) values were also measured. Results: The mean values of TBUT and Schirmer's tests in patients were significantly lower than the controls and significantly higher scores of OSDI were observed among patients compared to the controls (p <.0001); dry eye disease was more frequent in the patients than the healthy subjects (p =.001). Other ocular findings including cataract and uveitis were not significantly different between the groups. Although no significant differences were found between the ocular findings of new cases and patients under treatment, ocular findings in cases under treatment were associated with the type of treatment and more frequent in those treated with methotrexate, followed by acitretin and biologic drugs. Conclusions: Ocular surface problems in psoriatic patients are more common than previously thought; in addition to the role of treatment modalities, psoriasis itself and a probable systemic inflammation may play an important role. There are limited case-control studies about ocular manifestations in psoriasis and also its pathogenesis is not yet clear. This study shows that ocular surface problems in psoriatic patients are higher than healthy subjects; in addition to the role of treatment modalities, psoriasis itself and a probable systemic inflammation may play a pivotal role. Regular ophthalmological evaluations are recommended in psoriatic patients especially those with more severe and chronic form of the disease, to prevent any complications. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

I am honored to pay tribute to Daniel Boone Schirmer. Others already mentioned Boone’s important role during the Martial Law period, especially his critique of US policies in support of the Marcos dictatorship and the role of U.S. military bases. I will use this occasion to share some personal stories about Boone for those who did not know him personally.

Purpose: Ophthalmic complications in diabetes such as retinopathy, cataract, and infections have been extensively studied. Recently, attention has been drawn toward ocular surface changes in diabetes mellitus (DM). This study has been carried out to investigate the tear film and ocular surface abnormalities in type II DM patients. Materials and Methods: A total of 83 participants (130 eyes) were enrolled: 53 diabetics (80 eyes) and 30 healthy controls (50 eyes). Of the 53 diabetics, 24 patients (42 eyes) had some diabetic retinopathy. The tear film and ocular surface were evaluated using Schirmer test, tear film break-up time (TBUT), keratoepitheliopathy score (KES), Rose Bengal Staining (RBS) test, and conjunctival impression cytology. Results: When compared with the healthy controls, diabetics showed significantly reduced Schirmer, TBUT measurements and the higher grades of KES and RBS test (P < 0.001). Impression cytology analysis showed goblet cell loss and conjunctival squamous metaplasia in diabetics. Conclusion: Tear film abnormality is a significant feature of diabetic ocular surface diseases. These abnormalities are likely on account of poor quality and function of tears, combined with the subnormal ocular surface. Therefore, all diabetic patients especially those with evidence of retinopathy changes should undergo routine early examination and follow-up of tear function and ocular surface parameters.

Background: To date, there are no studies on the impact of two distinct environments-one familiar to the horse and another unfamiliar-on intraocular pressure (IOP) and tear production., Objectives: To compare the measured IOP and tear production values in horses between a horse stable and a medical barn., Study Design: Cross-over., Methods: Thirty healthy male Arabian horses, aged 6.88 ± 3.34 years were used. IOP and tear production measurements were assessed in both the horse stable and the medical barn, with a paired Student's t-test and Bland-Altman analysis conducted for comparison and agreement, respectively., Results: A significant increase in IOP was observed in the medical barn (34.2 ± 6.8 mmHg) compared with the horse stable (29.5 ± 7.2 mmHg, p = 0.02). However, no statistically significant difference in tear production was found between horse stable (22.1 ± 2.8 mm/min) and medical barn (23.6 ± 3.4 mm/min) (p = 0.09). The standard error of the slope was 0.36 for the IOP measured in the medical barn, indicating a difference of -4.7 mmHg compared with the IOP measured in the horse stable (p = 0.02). The bias was fitted to y = -7.9350 + 0.1003x. The standard error of the slope was 0.39 for the tear production measured in the medical barn, indicating a difference of -1.5 mm/min compared with the tear production measured in the horse stable (p = 0.09). The bias was fitted to y = 6.1530 + -0.3367x., Main Limitations: The absence of horses with ocular disorders and an assessment of the potential impact of transportation., Conclusions: A notable increase in IOP was observed in the medical barn compared with the horse stable, while tear production exhibited no significant variance between the two environments. The Bland-Altman analysis highlighted a discrepancy in IOP measurements in the horse stable, emphasising the potential influence of the environment on ocular parameters in horses., (© 2024 The Authors. Equine Veterinary Journal published by John Wiley & Sons Ltd on behalf of EVJ Ltd.)

Hideki Miyake,1 Yuri Kawano,2 Hiroshi Tanaka,2 Akihiro Iwata,3 Takahiro Imanaka,1 Masatsugu Nakamura1 1Ophthalmic Disease Area Strategy Department, 2Clinical Operations Department, 3Data Science Department, R&D Division, Santen Pharmaceutical Co., Ltd. Osaka, Japan Purpose: We aimed to evaluate the feasibility of using a modified Schirmer test to determine the increase in tear volume after administration of 3% diquafosol ophthalmic solution (diquafosol 3%) in dry eye patients. Patients and methods: A randomized, multicenter, prospective, double-blind clinical study recruited 50 qualified subjects. They received diquafosol 3% in one eye and artificial tears in the other eye. The study protocol comprised a screening and treatment procedure completed within 1 day. The Schirmer test was performed on closed eyes three times a day. The primary efficacy end points were the second Schirmer test scores 10 minutes after the single dose. Secondary end points were the third Schirmer test scores 3 hours and 40 minutes after the single dose and the symptom scores prior to the second and third Schirmer tests. Results: According to the Schirmer test, 10 minutes after administration, diquafosol 3% significantly increased tear volume compared to artificial tears. Diquafosol 3% and artificial tears both showed significant improvements in the symptom scores compared to baseline. However, there was no significant difference in the symptoms score between diquafosol 3% and artificial tears. Conclusion: The modified Schirmer test can detect a minute change in tear volume in dry eye patients. These findings will be useful in the diagnosis of dry eye, assessment of treatment benefits in daily clinical practice, and the development of possible tear-secreting compounds for dry eye. Keywords: P2Y2, efficacy, Diquas®

Purpose: To assess the real-time changes in the tear film and ocular surface of symptomatic video display terminal (VDT) versus asymptomatic users., Methods: A total of 35 symptomatic (29 ± 5.6 years; Group 1, mild dry eye disease) and 35 asymptomatic (24.1 ± 4.6 years; Group 2) VDT users with a mean OSDI of 28 ± 11 and 0.86 ± 2.1, respectively, had tear film examination (Oculus Keratograph 5 M and Tearlab Osmolarity System) at baseline and after 1 h of watching a movie on the laptop inside a controlled environment chamber along with blink rate calculation., Results: The mean VDT use was 11.4 ± 3.2 h/day in Group 1 and 2.3 ± 2.3 h/day in Group 2. In Group 1, the mean pre- and post-VDT task values for NIBUT and bulbar congestion were 10.7 ± 3.7s and 6.7 ± 3.1s (P = 0.007), and 0.8 ± 0.4 and 1.1 ± 0.5 (P = 0.01), respectively. There were no significant changes in tear meniscus height (P = 0.77), Schirmer I (P =0.14), corneal staining score (P = 1.0), and tear osmolarity (P > 0.05). Group 2 showed insignificant change in all parameters. Only 16.2% individuals in Group 1 met modified TFOS-DEWS II diagnostic criteria at baseline that increased to 67.6% following VDT task. The blink rate reduced significantly during the last 15 min (6.8 ± 3.4 vs. 9.3 ± 4.5; P = 0.006) compared to the first 15 min of the task in Group 1, whereas no significant change occurred in Group 2., Conclusion: Tear film instability and increased bulbar congestion are observed in symptomatic VDT users after computer work despite baseline stable tear film. The changes are significantly altered in symptomatic VDT users compared to asymptomatic users., Competing Interests: Declaration of competing interest None for any of the authors., (Copyright © 2023 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.)

Purpose: Welders are prone to ocular injuries and ocular surface problems due to exposure to ultraviolet light. The aim of this study was to evaluate the tear film comprehensively and assess objective and subjective indices of dry eye in welders.Methods: In this historical cohort, welders with at least 5 years of experience were compared with controls. A complete evaluation of ocular health was done for all participants. The Schirmer test (invasive and non-invasive) and Invasive Tear Break-Up Time (ITBUT) were applied for objective evaluation and the Ocular Surface Disease Index (OSDI) was used for subjective assessment of the tear film status. The results were compared between the two groups using the SPSS software.Results: The results of 140 welders (mean age: 46.66 ± 13.01 years) and 172 controls (mean age: 45.05 ± 12.61) were analyzed. The values of the Schirmer test and ITBUT were significantly lower in welders than controls; the difference was more prominent for the Schirmer test as compared to TBUT (Schirmer difference = 4.98 mm, ITBUT difference = 2.23 s). OSDI values were also significantly lower in welders than controls (P < 0.001). Considering a cut-off point of 12, 81.2% of welders had degrees of dry eye which was severe in 46.2% while 35.5% of controls had dry eye.Conclusion: The results indicate that the percentage of dry eye and tear problems is far higher in welders than non-welders. Most of the affected welders have severe dry eye. It seems that the main reason for dry eye in these people is aqueous deficiency. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Dry eye syndrome is one of the complaints of diabetic patients. The aim of the present study was to evaluate the tear functions in pregnant women with gestational diabetes mellitus (GDM) using tests: Schirmer, tear break-up time (TBUT), and tear film osmolarity (TFO) tests and the Ocular Surface Disease Index score (OSDI).Methods: Pregnant women with GDM (Group 1, n=46) and healthy pregnant women (Group 2, n=36) were enrolled. Initially, all participants were asked to answer the OSDI and then they underwent a detailed ophthalmic examination including Schirmer, TBUT, and TFO tests. The individuals with ocular or systemic disorders that might affect the tear function tests and who were using topical medications were excluded.Results: The results of Schirmer, TBUT, TFO tests and OSDI scores were 11.20±4.93 mm, 5.59±2.16 sec, 309.65±14.80 mOsm/L, and 9.59 ± 9.69 in Group 1, respectively, and 12.33±5.33 mm, 5.67±2.68 sec, 308.36±16.00 mOsm/L, and 10.62±8.66 in Group 2, respectively. There was no significant difference in any of the tear function tests and OSDI scores between the study groups (p>0.05).Conclusion: GDM seems to have no negative effects on tear function tests. This may be due to a lack of duration of hyperglycemia long enough to affect the tear function tests of pregnant women. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose: To evaluate the effects of acetylsalicylic acid (aspirin) on tear film parameters and dry eye disease.Methods: Fifty-seven patients using low-dose aspirin regularly for antiaggregant purposes as well as 49 controls, who required antiaggregant treatment but who had not yet started, were included in the study. Tear osmolarity, tear break-up time (TBUT), Schirmer and Oxford grading of ocular surface staining were performed on all patients and dry eye symptomatology was assessed using the ocular surface disease index questionnaire (OSDI).Results: The mean osmolarity was 302.11 ± 16.22 mOsm/L in the aspirin group and 313.88 ± 19.57 mOsm/L in the control group (P < 0.01). The mean Schirmer's score was 24.16 ± 10.52 mm and 21.94 ± 10.11 mm (P = 0.232), TBUT was 13.61 ± 3.31 s and 10.39 ± 4.46 s (P < 0.01), OSDI score was 5.15 ± 5.98 and 16.94 ± 14.17 (P < 0.01), and Oxford score was 0.12 ± 0.33 and 0.12 ± 0.44 in aspirin and control groups, respectively (P = 0.99). Dry eye diagnosis was lower in the aspirin group, but statistical significance was present only in TBUT and osmolarity-based dry eye diagnosis (P ≤ 0.01). In terms of symptom-based dry eye diagnosis with the threshold of OSDI ≥23, none of the aspirin group had dry eye diagnosis, whereas 32.6% of the control group had the diagnosis (P < 0.01).Conclusions: The use of low-dose aspirin might be great option for treatment of ocular surface inflammatory disease through increasing TBUT and decreasing tear osmolarity with a resultant symptomatic satisfaction. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose: Psychiatric conditions and not just the treatments themselves might be involved in the pathophysiology of dry eye disease (DED). The aim of our study was to evaluate the association between depression and DED using objective and subjective tests in patients with newly diagnosed depressive disorder who were not using any medication which may help us to determine the sole effect of depression on dry eye. Methods: Thirty-six patients from the psychiatry clinic with a new diagnosis of depressive disorder and 32 controls were included in the study. All met the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual IV criteria for depression. Beck Depression Inventory (BDI) was used to measure depression severity and the State-Trait Anxiety Inventory (Stai1, Stai2) for concomitant anxiety symptoms. The Ocular Surface Disease Index (OSDI) and Visual Functioning Questionnaires (VFQ25) were completed and used to confirm diagnosis of DED in conjunction with the tear break up time (TBUT), ocular surface vital dye staining, and Schirmer’s test. Results: The comparison of depressive and control groups revealed significantly lower Schirmer (20.3 ± 9.9 vs. 25.7 ± 9.3 mm) and TBUT (7.8 ± 5.7 vs. 12.5 ± 7.8 s) scores with a consistently higher Oxford score (1.8 ± 3.2 vs. 0.2 ± 0.4) in the depressive group. Although the parameters were affected in the depressive group, this did not influence OSDI (86.1 ± 13.6 vs. 86.6 ± 13.3) and VFQ25 (30.8 ± 21.6 vs. 38.5 ± 29.1) scores. In both groups, the three psychological test scores (Stai1–2 and BDI) were correlated to each other but none of these tests were correlated to OSDI, VRQL, Schirmer, TBUT, and Oxford staining scores. Conclusion: Our study shows a definite association between depression and DED. We feel that it is important that psychiatrists take this into account especially while prescribing antidepressants which may aggravate dry eye signs. [ABSTRACT FROM PUBLISHER]

Purpose: Ophthalmic complications in diabetes such as retinopathy, cataract, and infections have been extensively studied. Recently, attention has been drawn toward ocular surface changes in diabetes mellitus (DM). This study has been carried out to investigate the tear film and ocular surface abnormalities in type II DM patients.Materials and Methods: A total of 83 participants (130 eyes) were enrolled: 53 diabetics (80 eyes) and 30 healthy controls (50 eyes). Of the 53 diabetics, 24 patients (42 eyes) had some diabetic retinopathy. The tear film and ocular surface were evaluated using Schirmer test, tear film break-up time (TBUT), keratoepitheliopathy score (KES), Rose Bengal Staining (RBS) test, and conjunctival impression cytology.Results: When compared with the healthy controls, diabetics showed significantly reduced Schirmer, TBUT measurements and the higher grades of KES and RBS test (P < 0.001). Impression cytology analysis showed goblet cell loss and conjunctival squamous metaplasia in diabetics.Conclusion: Tear film abnormality is a significant feature of diabetic ocular surface diseases. These abnormalities are likely on account of poor quality and function of tears, combined with the subnormal ocular surface. Therefore, all diabetic patients especially those with evidence of retinopathy changes should undergo routine early examination and follow-up of tear function and ocular surface parameters. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Previous meta-analyses have shown a superiority of acupuncture over artificial tear for treating typical dry eye syndrome (DES). However, given that the acupuncture protocols were quite diverse in the randomized controlled trials (RCTs) included in the meta-analyses, it is necessary to establish the acupuncture guidelines. Thus, the optimal acupuncture protocol involved in improvements of tear-film breakup time (BUT) or Schirmer tear test (STT) was examined by meta-analyses for RCTs in patients with typical DES. Eight databases until Jun 2018 were searched for 21 RCTs (n = 1542 eyes) comparing effectiveness of acupuncture versus artificial tear control. Indirect comparison of Bucher analysis was used to find specific acupoints (SAPs) improving BUT or STT by comparing the outcomes between subgroups of the RCTs including and excluding certain SAPs. Meta-analysis was examined for the outcomes in subgroups of the RCTs based on the number of SAPs, and network meta-analysis was for multiple pairwise comparisons across the protocols using the SAPs to yield relative effects. The Bucher analyses identified nine SAPs with positive effects on BUT or STT, and the positive relations of two SAPs involved in improvements of both BUT and STT suggested potential combinations of three ('KI3-LI4-SP6' or 'KI3-GB14-ST2') or four SAPs ('KI3-BL1-EX-HN7-SP6'). Subgroup meta-analyses showed the SAP-depending improvements of BUT or STT in the subgroups including more than three SAPs, compared with the artificial tear control. Meta-regression and network meta-analyses revealed significant correlations between the number of SAPs and the improvements of BUT and STT, and demonstrated that acupuncture using four SAPs for 21-30 days, particularly at two-three times per week, can be optimal for improving the symptoms of typical DES. These results provide useful information for guiding acupuncture in clinical trials for DES., Competing Interests: The authors declare no conflict of interest.The authors declare that they have no known competing financial interests or personal relationships that could have appeared to influence the work reported in this paper., (© 2023 The Authors.)

The aim of this study was to compare two methods of tear sampling for protein quantification. Tear samples were collected from 29 healthy dogs (58 eyes) using Schirmer tear test (STT) strip and microcapillary tubes. The samples were frozen at -80ºC and analyzed by the Bradford method. Results were analyzed by Student's t test. The average protein concentration and standard deviation from tears collected with microcapillary tube were 4.45mg/mL ±0.35 and 4,52mg/mL ±0.29 for right and left eyes respectively. The average protein concentration and standard deviation from tears collected with Schirmer Tear Test (STT) strip were and 54.5mg/mL ±0.63 and 54.15mg/mL ±0.65 to right and left eyes respectively. Statistically significant differences (pCompararam-se dois métodos de coleta de lágrima para quantificação proteica, utilizando-se 58 olhos de 29 cães hígidos. As amostras foram coletadas utilizando-se fitas de teste da lágrima de Schirmer (Schirmer tear test - STT) e tubos microcapilares. Após obtidas, as amostras foram congeladas a -80º C e posteriormente analisadas pelo método de Bradford. Os resultados foram analisados pelo teste T de Student. A média da concentração proteica e desvio padrão das amostras obtidas com microcapilar foi de 4,45mg/mL ±0,35 e 4,52mg/mL ±0,29 para olhos direito e esquerdo, respectivamente. Para as amostras obtidas com STT os resultados foram 4,45mg/mL ±0,35 and 4,52mg/mL ±0,29 para olhos direito e esquerdo, respectivamente. Diferenças estatisticamente significativas (p

Aim: Ocular allergy is an ocular surface disease deteriorates the patient's quality of life. This situation continues and repeats inflammation via allergen contacts. Inflammation disrupted the tear film instability and may lead to dry eye. The aim of our study is to investigate concurrently appearing signs and symptoms of dry eye in a group of patients with symptomatic allergic conjunctivitis. Material and Methods: To be evaluated 141 patients with ocular allergy and 138 patient without ocular allergy in terms of dry eye symptoms and signs by Oxford scheme, OSDI scores, Break up time (BUT) and Schirmer test. Results: There was a statistically significant difference was detected between the dry eye scores of the two groups. Conclusion: It may be related that ocular allergy and dry eye. Because of this relation, patients have ocular allergy evaluated in terms of dry eye simultaneously. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study aimed to evaluate the Shih Tzu tear production quantity and quality, in order to compare it with tear production of different breeds previously described. The tear production quantitative evaluation was performed in 35 animals, by Schirmer tear tests 1 and 2 (STT-1 and STT-2), in absence or presence the local anesthetic ,respectively. Regarding the mucin tear layer, a qualitative tear production evaluation was performed in 1 5 animals through conjunctival goblet cell density (CGCD) analysis. The mean values obtained to STT-1 were 19.66 ± 7.30 and 21 .97 ± 5.69 for left eye LE) and right eye (RE), respectively. The mean values obtained toSTT-2 were 10.71 ± 6.10 and 9.14 ± 4.78 for LE and RE, respectively. Both STT-1 and STT-2 values found to the Shih Tzu dogs are within tear production standards of other breeds previously described. The mean CGCD found to LE was 13.64 ± 3.44, and to RE it was 13.64 ±4.07. These values are lower than those described for other breeds

Purpose: Human tears contain abundant, diverse sets of proteins that may serve as biomarkers of ocular surface health. There is a need for reproducible methods that consider multiple factors influencing the tear proteome, in addition to the variable of interest. Here we examined a workflow for proteomic analysis of tear proteins without the need to pool tear samples from multiple individuals, thus allowing for analyses based on individual factors, and increasing opportunities for protein biomarker discovery., Methods: Tears were collected by Schirmer strip following topical ocular anesthetic application then individually stored at -80 °C prior to processing for proteomics. Tear proteins were extracted from Schirmer strips, digested using suspension trapping spin columns (S-Trap), and labeled with high multiplicity tandem mass tags (TMT). Peptide digests were then extensively fractionated by two-dimensional chromatography and analyzed by mass spectrometry to identify and measure changes in protein abundance in each sample. Analysis of select samples was performed to test protocols and to compare the impact of clinically relevant parameters. To facilitate comparison of separate TMT experiments, common pool samples were included in each TMT instrument run and internal reference scaling (IRS) was performed., Results: Differences in subsets of tear proteins were noted for: geographic site of tear collection, contact lens use, and differences in tear fluid volume among individuals., Conclusion: These findings demonstrate that proteomic analysis of human tear proteins can be performed without the need to pool samples, and that development of analytic workflows must consider factors that may affect outcomes in studies focused on diverse clinical samples., (Copyright © 2023 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.)

Cyclosporine-A is an immunomodulator for topical use in the treatment of dry eye; its use has anti-inflammatory therapeutic action and few adverse effects. Objective: To determine significant changes in symptomatology, quantity and quality of tear film, and ocular surface status after three months of treatment with cyclosporine-A 1% in patients with moderate to severe dry eye. Materials and methods: A controlled, blind, randomized intervention study was developed with 34 patients diagnosed with moderate to severe dry eye; cyclosporine-A 1% was administered in a randomized manner to 18 patients (magistral formula); and carboxymethylcellulose 0.5% to 16 patients. The following pretreatment and post-treatment tests were performed: OSDI questionnaire, Schirmer II test, Tear Break-Up Test (TBUT), lissamine green staining, and conjunctival impression cytology. Results: After treatment with cyclosporine-A 1% statistical differences (p<0.05) were found in symptomatology, the Schirmer test, lissamine green staining, and impression cytology. In the group treated with carboxymethylcellulose 0.5%, significant differences (p<0.05) after treatment were only evidenced in symptomatology and conjunctival impression cytology. Conclusions: Cyclosporine-A 1% treatment reduces clinical signs and symptoms in patients with moderate to severe dry eye. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The ocular involvement in psoriasis is not a completely well-known problem. The ophthalmologic involvement occurs in about 10 % of patients, particularly in case of arthropathic or pustular psoriasis. Ocular lesions are more common in males, and they often occur during psoriasis exacerbations. Our study aimed to assess the prevalence and type of ocular involvement in psoriasis, by a comparison between psoriasis and healthy subjects, and if/how a 12-week long systemic immunosuppressive therapy is able to modify them. This study involved thirty-two psoriatic patients and thirty-two healthy subjects. Dermatological evaluation was done using Psoriasis Area and Severity Index, Physician Global Assessment, and Dermatology Life Quality Index (PASI, PGA, and DLQI score). Ophthalmological evaluation included ocular surface involvement (Schirmer, Jones, break-up time-BUT, DR-1 camera), retinal pathologies, and ocular surface disease index. Laboratory investigations including the C-reactive protein (CRP) of all the patients were performed. At baseline, the values of Schirmer, Jones, and BUT tests in the patient group were significantly lower compared to controls; moreover, conjunctival hyperemia was more frequent in psoriatic patients than in healthy subjects. Ocular involvement was more prominent in the subset of psoriatic patients with sebo-psoriasis than in general psoriatic population. A statistically significant correlation was found in sebo-psoriasis between PASI and Schirmer, between PASI and Jones, and between PASI and BUT. On the other hand, the results obtained from DR1 camera showed statistically significant difference between psoriatic and sebo-psoriatic patients at the end of the follow-up. After 12 weeks of treatment, the mean values of PASI, PGA, DLQI, CRP, and BUT showed significant changes in psoriatic patients. Our findings suggest a high rate of ocular involvement in psoriatic patients, emphasizing the need of performing periodic ophthalmological examinations in order to avoid underestimating eye diseases and to allow early diagnosis and treatment of patients. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: The aim of this retrospective study was to evaluate the course of dry eye syndrome after phacoemulsification surgery. Methods: One hundred and ninety-two eyes of 96 patients (30 males, 66 females) with chronic dry eye syndrome and cataract, who had undergone phacoemulsification surgery were enrolled in this study. Results: Their mean age was 68.46 ± 8.14 standard deviation (SD) (range 56--83) years . Thirty of them (31 %) were males and 66 (69 %) were females. Ocular Surface Disease Index (OSDI) questionnaire scores increased postoperatively, but arrived preoperative levels at the end of 3rd month following the surgery. Fluorescein staining patterns according to Oxford Schema got worse postoperatively, however after postoperative 3rd month they got better and resembled preoperative patterns. The mean postoperative 1st day, 1st week and 1st month Break-up Time (BUT) values were significantly lower than preoperative BUT value (P < 0.001, P < 0.001, P < 0.001), however 3rd month, 6th month, 1st year and 2nd year values were not significantly different from preoperative value (P = 0.441, P = 0.078, P = 0.145, P = 0.125). The mean postoperative 1st day, 1st week and 1st month Schirmer Test 1 (ST1) values were significantly lower than preoperative ST1 value (P < 0.001, P < 0.001, P < 0.001), however 3rd month, 6th month, 1st year and 2nd year values were not significantly different from preoperative value (P = 0.748, P = 0.439, P = 0.091, P = 0.214). Conclusion: Phacoemulsification surgery may aggravate the signs and symptoms of dry eye and affect dry eye test values in chronic dry eye patients in short-term. However, in long-term, signs and symptoms of dry eye decrease and dry eye test values return to preoperative values. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose: Pepper spray is used both by civilians and by law enforcement. Burning sensation occurs when exposed to skin, pain and temporary blindness occurs when exposed to the eyes. This study focused on the effect of pepper spray on lacrimal tear production and subsequently on corneal sensitivity in a large group after an intense exposure. Methods: Ninety-six people who were exposed to pepper spray during the Gezi park protests volunteered. Subjects were asked if they wore any protective goggles and if they irrigated their eyes after exposure. They were asked to record their symptoms regarding dry eye in a standardized questionnaire. Schirmer I and II tests were performed. Results: Eighty-two people wore protective goggles during exposure, whereas 14 people did not have any protection. Both Schirmer results in unprotected subjects were significantly lower than that in protected subjects. Schirmer I and II results of unprotected subjects were not statistically different, whereas they were statistically different in protected subjects. Thirty-five percent of unprotected subjects and 24% of protected subjects expressed symptoms of dry eye. Discussion: The active ingredient of pepper spray is oleoresin capsicum. It is randomly diffused to polymodal nerve terminals, leading to opening of non-selective cationic channels and block neuronal transmission. The lower results of both Schirmer in unprotected group emphasize the importance of a protective Google glass around the eyes during exposal, serving as a barrier minimalizing the contact of the spray with the eyes. The combination of the low results and lack of symptoms could suggest that corneal reflex lacrimation in our subjects was not abundant enough. The findings of this study could not fully represent long term findings but it could be assumed that our findings could be indicative of the sensory denervation and alterations demonstrated in studies investigating the long term effects of oleoresin capsicum. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose The ability of human newborns to produce tears has been a subject of controversy in the literature since the mid-20th century, and there has been considerable debate as to whether they are able to produce tears. Recently, it was established that total tear secretion (reflex + basal) in full-term infants is similar to those of adults whereas both reflex and basal tear production is reduced in premature babies. The objectives of this study were to assess whether newborn dogs have measurable aqueous tear production at the fourth week of life and to evaluate a modified Schirmer tear test (mSTT) as a useful method for measuring neonatal tear production in dogs. Methods Thirty four-week-old healthy puppies from six litters were evaluated. A control group was composed of 10 normal adult dogs. The mSTT strips were obtained by cutting a 5 mm-wide strip in half (making two 2.5 mm-wide strips). The mSTT1 was performed in puppies and adult dogs. Values were compared using t-tests. Results In neonates, the average value for the mSTT1 was 13.6 ± 3.07 (range = 7-19 mm/min), which was significantly lower in neonates than in adult dogs (23.25 ± 3.5, range = 17-30 mm/min, P < 0.0001). Conclusions Canine neonates do produce tears by the fourth week of life, which can be successfully measured with the mSTT. This report established for the first time that canine neonates have significantly reduced total (reflex + basal) tear secretion compared to adults. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The article presents research which compared two methods used for tear sampling for the quantification of proteins using Bradford method. Researchers gathered tear samples from 20 healthy dogs by performing Schirmer tear test (STT) using microcapillary tubes and strips. They concluded that the mean protein concentration detected after conducting Bradford test in tear samples that were collected using STT strip showed values that are higher compared to the samples obtained through microcapillary tubes.

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Purpose: To find a dose–volume effect for inhomogeneous irradiated lacrimal glands. Methods and Materials: Between 1999 and 2006, 72 patients (42 men and 30 women) were treated with fractionated stereotactic radiotherapy in a prospective, nonrandomized clinical trial (median follow-up, 32 months). A total dose of 50 Gy was given on 5 consecutive days. The mean of all Schirmer test results obtained ≥6 months after treatment was correlated with the radiation dose delivered to the lacrimal gland. Also, the appearance of dry eye syndrome (DES) was related to the lacrimal gland dose distribution. Results: Of the 72 patients, 17 developed a late Schirmer value <10 mm; 9 patients developed DES. A statistically significant relationship was found between the received median dose in the lacrimal gland vs. reduced tear production (p = 0.000) and vs. the appearance of DES (p = 0.003), respectively. A median dose of 7 Gy/fraction to the lacrimal gland caused a 50% risk of low Schirmer results. A median dose of 10 Gy resulted in a 50% probability of DES. Conclusion: We found a clear dose–volume relationship for irradiated lacrimal glands with regard to reduced tear production and the appearance of DES. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

In this study, we aimed to assess the quality and quantity of tears among premature and term newborns. Tear ferning and Schirmer's tests were conducted over the first 10 days of life. Correlations between tear ferning patterns, Schirmer's scores, post-conceptional age, and birth weight were evaluated. Forty-six newborns (23 preterm, 23 term) were enrolled, with a mean post-conceptional age of 36.6 weeks and a mean weight of 2598.2 g. Mean total, basal and reflex Schirmer's test results were 13.5 mm, 6.7 mm and 6.8 mm, on the right and 14.0 mm, 7.1 mm and 6.9 mm on the left eye, respectively. Median ferning score was 2 (range 1-3) bilaterally. Schirmer scores were correlated with ferning capacity and post-conceptional age. Our study shows that newborns secrete moderate quantity, good quality tears. Ferning capacity, Schirmer scores and post-conceptional age are correlated. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose: We aimed to analyze the tears of patients with Benin Essential Blepharospasm (BEB) to explore possible corneo-conjunctival mechanisms for photophobia, tear deficiency and ocular pain., Methods: Using an observational cohort of 42 patients diagnosed with BEB, we performed Schirmer's testing, measurement of tear film pH, tear film protein electrophoresis and conjunctival impression cytology., Results: Schirmer's testing showed dry eye (8.4±9.7mm) with 71.3% eyes having a Schirmer's score<10mm. Surprisingly, the pH was basic (8.4±0.4) and was improved in patients receiving the standard treatment of quarterly botulinum toxin injections (8.32±0.36 for treated patients vs. 8.74±0.53 for untreated patients; P=0.045). Together, tear protein electrophoresis and conjunctival impression cytology showed conjunctival inflammation associated with BEB., Conclusion: For the first time, this study emphasizes corneo-conjunctival mechanisms to explain the photophobia, dry eye and pain in Benign Essential Blepharospasm. While encouraging, complementary studies remain necessary to evaluate the effect of correcting tear film pH and inflammation on the quality of life of blepharospasm patients., (Copyright © 2021 Elsevier Masson SAS. All rights reserved.)

The purpose of this study was to investigate the effects of acute exercise on environmentally induced symptoms of dry eye. Twelve participants without dry eye disease volunteered to complete three experimental visits in a randomized order; (1) control condition seated for 1 h at a relative humidity (RH) of 40% (CONT), (2) dry condition seated for 1 h at a RH of 20% (DRY), and (3) exercise condition seated for 40 min followed by 20 min of cycling exercise at a RH of 20% (EXER). Tear volume, tear matrix metalloproteinase 9 (MMP‐9), perception of dry eye symptoms (frequency and severity), core temperature, and ocular surface temperature (OST) were measured at the end of each exposure. The perception of dry eye frequency and MMP‐9 concentration were significantly higher in DRY compared to CONT (P < 0.012), with no differences in EXER compared to CONT. The results suggest that an acute bout of exercise may attenuate symptoms of environmentally induced dry eye, and warrant further research. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]