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Mimura T, Noma H, Yamaguchi M, Shinbo K. Comparison of comfort and tear stability with two novel silicone-hydrogel daily disposable contact lenses. Int Ophthalmol 2024; 44:136. [PMID: 38485796 DOI: 10.1007/s10792-024-03075-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/03/2024] [Accepted: 02/16/2024] [Indexed: 03/19/2024]
Abstract
BACKGROUND The surface wettability of soft contact lenses (SCLs) affects the wearing comfort. Verofilcon A is a daily disposable silicone hydrogel contact lens with SMARTSURFACE® technology, ensuring high surface wettability. PURPOSE To evaluate tear stability on the surface of verofilcon A and narafilcon A SCLs and correlate these findings with clinical parameters and patients' discomfort. METHODS Sixty-two SCL wearers (124 eyes) with SCL discomfort were randomly assigned to use narafilcon A (control SCL) and verofilcon A for 2 weeks each by crossover. The noninvasive tear break-up time (NIBUT) of the naked eye at baseline and pre-lens NIBUT (PL-NIBUT) of the SCL surface after 2 weeks of using each SCL were measured using the DR-1α® dry eye observation device. Corneal superficial punctate keratopathy (SPK) (0-3) and conjunctival hyperemia (0-3), and comfort level of SCL wear (1-10) were also evaluated. RESULTS NIBUT and PL-NIBUT values were 4.6 ± 2.3 s for the naked eye, 6.6 ± 6.6 s for narafilcon A, and 11.3 ± 3.5 s for verofilcon A. verofilcon A had significantly higher PL-NIBUT than the naked eye and narafilcon A (p < 0.05). SPK (0.16 ± 0.48 vs. 0.00 ± 0.00, p < 0.01) and conjunctival hyperemia (1.15 ± 0.82 vs. 0.49 ± 0.50, p < 0.01) scores were lower when wearing verofilcon A than narafilcon A. The ocular comfort score of wearing SCLs was higher with verofilcon A than with narafilcon A (8.7 ± 1.8 vs. 9.8 ± 0.5, p < 0.01). The ocular comfort score for wearing verofilcon A was higher, regardless of the baseline NIBUT. CONCLUSION The results of this study showed a consistent surface-wetting advantage of verofilcon A in patients with ocular discomfort. verofilcon A was used comfortably in patients with low NIBUT scores at baseline. The findings suggest that verofilcon A is recommended for SCL wearers experiencing SCL-related dry eye symptoms and discomfort.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tatsuya Mimura
- Department of Ophthalmology, Teikyo University School of Medicine, 2-11-1 Kaga, Itabashi-ku, Tokyo, 173-8605, Japan.
| | - Hidetaka Noma
- Department of Ophthalmology, Hachioji Medical Center, Tokyo Medical University, Hachioji, Tokyo, Japan
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Xia M, Yang Y, Sun J, Huang R, Huang Y, Zhang M, Yao X. Time-series analysis of the association between air pollution exposure and outpatient visits for dry eye disease: a case study in Zhengzhou, China. Front Public Health 2024; 12:1352057. [PMID: 38550319 PMCID: PMC10973159 DOI: 10.3389/fpubh.2024.1352057] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/07/2023] [Accepted: 03/04/2024] [Indexed: 04/02/2024] Open
Abstract
Background Dry eye disease (DED) is a prevalent ocular surface disease that significantly impacts patients' quality of life. The association between air pollution and the risk of dry eye disease remains uncertain. Methods Data on outdoor air pollutants, meteorological information, and outpatient visits for DED were collected from July 1, 2014, to December 31, 2019. The relationship between ambient air pollutants and DED outpatient visits was analyzed using a generalized additive model with a Poisson distribution. Results Among the 5,204 DED patients included in the study, 63.76% were female and 36.24% were male. The single-pollutant model revealed a significant association between a 10 μg/m3 increase in concentrations of fine-particulate matter with a median aerometric diameter of less than 10 μm (PM10), sulfur dioxide (SO2), nitrogen dioxide (NO2), and carbon monoxide (CO) and outpatient visits for DED. Fine-particulate matter with a median aerometric diameter of less than 2.5 μm (PM2.5) showed a significant association with DED outpatient visits in males and the 19-59 years age group. The strongest associations between air pollutants and outpatient visits were observed in male patients and during the cold season. Conclusion The noteworthy correlation between air pollutants and DED outpatient visits can offer evidence for policy makers and underscore the significance of reinforcing environmental protection.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mengting Xia
- Henan Eye Institute & Henan Eye Hospital, Henan Provincial People’s Hospital, People’s Hospital of Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, China
| | - Yingrui Yang
- Henan Eye Institute & Henan Eye Hospital, Henan Provincial People’s Hospital, People’s Hospital of Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, China
| | - Jiali Sun
- Henan Eye Institute & Henan Eye Hospital, Henan Provincial People’s Hospital, People’s Hospital of Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, China
| | - Ranran Huang
- Henan Eye Institute & Henan Eye Hospital, Henan Provincial People’s Hospital, People’s Hospital of Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, China
| | - Yonghui Huang
- Henan Eye Institute & Henan Eye Hospital, Henan Provincial People’s Hospital, People’s Hospital of Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, China
| | - Mengqi Zhang
- Hospital-Acquired Infection Control Department, School and Hospital of Stomatology, Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, China
| | - Xi Yao
- Henan Eye Institute & Henan Eye Hospital, Henan Provincial People’s Hospital, People’s Hospital of Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, China
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Cutrupi F, De Luca A, Di Zazzo A, Micera A, Coassin M, Bonini S. Real Life Impact of Dry Eye Disease. Semin Ophthalmol 2023; 38:690-702. [PMID: 37095685 DOI: 10.1080/08820538.2023.2204931] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/13/2023] [Revised: 03/21/2023] [Accepted: 03/22/2023] [Indexed: 04/26/2023]
Abstract
Dry Eye Disease (DED) is an increasingly common condition that affects between 5% and 50% of the global population. Even though DED is most frequently diagnosed in older people, it has also been diagnosed in young adults and adolescents more frequently in recent years (employees, gamers). People can experience different types of symptoms and find it challenging to read, watch TV, cook, climb stairs, and meet friends. Mild and severe dry eye can reduce quality of life similarly to mild psoriasis and moderate-to-severe angina. Furthermore, DED patients experience serious difficulties driving vehicles, especially at night, and show a decrease in work productivity, which, when combined with the relevant indirect cost that this condition produces, poses a serious challenge in our days. In addition, DED patients are more likely to develop depression and suicidal ideations and experience frequent sleep disorders. Finally, it is discussed how lifestyle changes, such as increased physical activity, blinking exercises, and a proper diet, have positive implications for the management of this condition. Our aim is to draw attention to the negative effects of dry eye in real life, which are unique to each patient, especially as they relate to the non-visual symptoms experienced by DED patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- Francesco Cutrupi
- Ophthalmology Complex Operative Unit, University Campus Bio-Medico, Rome, Italy
| | - Andrea De Luca
- Ophthalmology Complex Operative Unit, University Campus Bio-Medico, Rome, Italy
| | - Antonio Di Zazzo
- Research Laboratories in Ophthalmology, IRCCS Bietti Foundation, Rome, Italy
| | - Alessandra Micera
- Research Laboratories in Ophthalmology, IRCCS Bietti Foundation, Rome, Italy
| | - Marco Coassin
- Ophthalmology Complex Operative Unit, University Campus Bio-Medico, Rome, Italy
| | - Stefano Bonini
- Ophthalmology Complex Operative Unit, University Campus Bio-Medico, Rome, Italy
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Yang DL, Zhang ZN, Liu H, Yang ZY, Liu MM, Zheng QX, Chen W, Xiang P. Indoor air pollution and human ocular diseases: Associated contaminants and underlying pathological mechanisms. CHEMOSPHERE 2023; 311:137037. [PMID: 36349586 DOI: 10.1016/j.chemosphere.2022.137037] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/10/2022] [Revised: 10/01/2022] [Accepted: 10/25/2022] [Indexed: 06/16/2023]
Abstract
People spend a long time indoors, especially young children. The risk of indoor pollution on human health is one of the current hotspots in environmental and public health. The human ocular surface is highly susceptible to indoor environment quality. Epidemiological data have linked human ophthalmological disorders with exposure to indoor pollution. In this review, we summarized the adverse impacts of indoor pollution on the human ocular surface. Several studies demonstrated that indoor contaminants including particulate matter, volatile/semi-volatile organic compounds, heavy metals, and fuel combustion and cigarette smoke exposure were associated with the incidence of human dry eye, conjunctivitis, glaucoma, cataracts, age-related macular degeneration, and keratitis. In addition, toxicological investigations revealed that indoor pollution-induced induced chronic inflammation, oxidative damage, and disruption of tight junctions are the main underlying pathological mechanisms for ocular surface diseases. Taken together, this review may expand the understanding of pollution-induced eye disorder and highlight the importance of reducing associated contaminants to decrease their detrimental effects on human eyes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Dan-Lei Yang
- Yunnan Province Innovative Research Team of Environmental Pollution, Food Safety, and Human Health, School of Ecology and Environment, Southwest Forestry University, Kunming, 650224, China
| | - Zhen-Ning Zhang
- Yunnan Province Innovative Research Team of Environmental Pollution, Food Safety, and Human Health, School of Ecology and Environment, Southwest Forestry University, Kunming, 650224, China
| | - Hai Liu
- The Affiliated Hospital of Yunnan University, Eye Hospital of Yunnan Province, Kunming, 650224, China
| | - Zi-Yue Yang
- Yunnan Province Innovative Research Team of Environmental Pollution, Food Safety, and Human Health, School of Ecology and Environment, Southwest Forestry University, Kunming, 650224, China
| | - Mi-Mi Liu
- The Affiliated Ningbo Eye Hospital of Wenzhou Medical University, Ningbo, 315040, China
| | - Qin-Xiang Zheng
- The Affiliated Ningbo Eye Hospital of Wenzhou Medical University, Ningbo, 315040, China
| | - Wei Chen
- The Affiliated Ningbo Eye Hospital of Wenzhou Medical University, Ningbo, 315040, China.
| | - Ping Xiang
- Yunnan Province Innovative Research Team of Environmental Pollution, Food Safety, and Human Health, School of Ecology and Environment, Southwest Forestry University, Kunming, 650224, China.
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Fjærvoll H, Fjærvoll K, Magno M, Moschowits E, Vehof J, Dartt DA, Utheim TP. The association between visual display terminal use and dry eye: a review. Acta Ophthalmol 2022; 100:357-375. [PMID: 34697901 DOI: 10.1111/aos.15049] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/14/2021] [Accepted: 10/06/2021] [Indexed: 12/11/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Dry eye disease (DED) is a multifactorial disease of the tear film and ocular surface. It causes ocular symptoms, reduced quality of life and a considerable economic burden on society. Prolonged use of visual display terminals (VDTs) has been suggested as an important risk factor for DED. PURPOSE This review aims to study the association between DED and VDT use with an emphasis on the prevalence of DED among VDT users and harmful daily duration of VDT use. METHODS A PubMed search was conducted and yielded 57 relevant articles based on a set of inclusion and exclusion criteria. The studies were subclassified according to study design. RESULTS The far majority of the studies showed an association between VDT use and DED or DED-related signs and symptoms. The prevalence of definite or probable DED in VDT and office workers ranged from 26% to 70%, with as few as 1-2 hr of VDT exposure per day being associated with DED. CONCLUSION VDT use is strongly associated with DED. VDT-associated DED is prevalent, but the exact prevalence needs to be further elucidated using standardized DED diagnosis criteria. Furthermore, a safe lower limit of daily VDT use has yet to be established. More research is needed on the effect of digitalization and digital transformation, which are particularly high during the time of the COVID-19 pandemic.
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Affiliation(s)
- Haakon Fjærvoll
- Department of Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery Oslo University Hospital Oslo Norway
- Faculty of Medicine Institute of Clinical Medicine University of Oslo Oslo Norway
| | - Ketil Fjærvoll
- Department of Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery Oslo University Hospital Oslo Norway
- Faculty of Medicine Institute of Clinical Medicine University of Oslo Oslo Norway
| | - Morten Magno
- Department of Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery Oslo University Hospital Oslo Norway
- Faculty of Medicine Institute of Clinical Medicine University of Oslo Oslo Norway
- Department of Medical Biochemistry Oslo University Hospital Oslo Norway
- Department of Ophthalmology University Medical Center Groningen University of Groningen Groningen The Netherlands
| | - Emily Moschowits
- Department of Medical Biochemistry Oslo University Hospital Oslo Norway
| | - Jelle Vehof
- Department of Ophthalmology University Medical Center Groningen University of Groningen Groningen The Netherlands
- Section of Academic Ophthalmology Faculty of Life Sciences and Medicine (FoLSM) School of Life Course Sciences King's College London St Thomas' Hospital London UK
- Department of Epidemiology University Medical Center Groningen University of Groningen Groningen The Netherlands
| | - Darlene A. Dartt
- Schepens Eye Research Institute of Massachusetts Eye and Ear Harvard Medical School Boston MA USA
| | - Tor P. Utheim
- Department of Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery Oslo University Hospital Oslo Norway
- Department of Medical Biochemistry Oslo University Hospital Oslo Norway
- Department of Ophthalmology Drammen Hospital Vestre Viken Trust Drammen Norway
- Department of Ophthalmology Sørlandet Hospital Arendal Arendal Norway
- Department of Computer Science Oslo Metropolitan University Oslo Norway
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Sivakumar GK, Patel J, Malvankar-Mehta MS, Mather R. Work productivity among Sjögren's Syndrome and non-Sjögren's dry eye patients: a systematic review and meta-analysis. Eye (Lond) 2021; 35:3243-3257. [PMID: 33479487 PMCID: PMC8602278 DOI: 10.1038/s41433-020-01282-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/25/2019] [Revised: 10/30/2020] [Accepted: 11/02/2020] [Indexed: 12/18/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Dry eye disease (DED) is one of the most common conditions presenting to eye care providers and is increasingly recognized to have poor outcomes on quality of life, activities of daily living, and social and emotional well-being. Here, we aim to understand the association between dry eye symptoms and workplace productivity experienced by patients with non-Sjögren's dry eye and Sjögren's Syndrome. METHODS MEDLINE, PubMed, Embase, Cochrane Library, CINAHL, Healthstar, and PsycINFO were searched from inception to May 2019. RESULTS Thirty-one studies consisting of 50,446 study participants from 14 countries were included in this systematic review. Among non-Sjögren's dry eye patients, there was significant absenteeism (ES = 0.19; 95% CI: [0.04, 0.35]), presenteeism (ES = 0.25; 95% CI: [0.15. 0.35]), productivity impairment (ES = 0.24; 95% CI: [0.20, 0.27]), activity impairment (ES = 0.30; 95% CI: [0.21, 0.38]), and subjective difficulties at work (ES = 0.58; 95% CI: [0.40, 0.75]). Patients with Sjögren's Syndrome demonstrated significant absenteeism (ES = 0.13, 95% CI: [0.10, 0.17]), presenteeism (ES = 0.28, 95% CI: [0.24, 0.32]), productivity impairment (ES = 0.31, 95% CI: [0.27, 0.35]), and activity impairment (ES = 0.39, 95% CI: [0.32, 0.47]) in the workplace. In addition, patients with Sjögren's Syndrome demonstrated significantly lower employment rate (ES = 0.42, 95% CI: [0.34, 0.50]), decreased number of hours worked (SMD = -0.21, 95% CI: [-0.39, -0.02]), and increased work disability (ES = 0.18; 95% CI: [0.09, 0.27]). CONCLUSIONS This is the first systematic review and meta-analysis to demonstrate the negative association between DED and several work productivity measures.
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Affiliation(s)
- Gayathri K Sivakumar
- Department of Ophthalmology, Schulich School of Medicine & Dentistry, Western University, London, ON, Canada
| | - Janhavi Patel
- Michael G. DeGroote School of Medicine, McMaster University, Hamilton, ON, Canada
| | - Monali S Malvankar-Mehta
- Ivey Eye Institute, Department of Ophthalmology, St. Joseph's Hospital, London, ON, Canada.
- Department of Epidemiology and Biostatistics, Western University, London, ON, Canada.
| | - Rookaya Mather
- Department of Ophthalmology, Schulich School of Medicine & Dentistry, Western University, London, ON, Canada
- Ivey Eye Institute, Department of Ophthalmology, St. Joseph's Hospital, London, ON, Canada
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Mechanobiology of conjunctival epithelial cells exposed to wall shear stresses. Biomech Model Mechanobiol 2021; 20:1903-1917. [PMID: 34228228 DOI: 10.1007/s10237-021-01484-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/29/2021] [Accepted: 06/23/2021] [Indexed: 10/20/2022]
Abstract
The human conjunctival epithelial cells (HCEC) line the inner sides of the eyelids and the anterior part of the sclera. They include goblet cells that secret mucus into the tear film that protects the ocular surface. The conjunctival epithelium is subjected to mechano-physical stimuli due to eyelid movement during blinking, during wiping and rubbing the eyes, and when exposed to wind and air currents. We cultured primary HCEC under air-liquid interface (ALI) conditions in custom-designed wells that can be disassembled for installation of the in vitro model in a flow chamber. We exposed the HCEC after ALI culture of 8-10 days to steady and oscillatory airflows. The in vitro model of HCEC was exposed to steady wall shear stresses (sWSS) of 0.5 and 1.0 dyne/cm2 for lengths of 30 and 60 min and to oscillatory wall shear stresses (oWSS) of 0.5 and 0.77 dyne/cm2 amplitudes for a length of 10 min. Cytoskeletal alterations and MUC5AC mucin secretion in response to WSS were investigated using immunohistochemically fluorescent staining and enzyme-linked lectin assay (ELLA), respectively. The results revealed that both exposure times and sWSS values increased the polymerization of F-actin filaments while mucin secretion decreased. However, after a recovery of 24 h in the incubator we observed a decrease of F-actin fibers and mucin secretion only for exposure of 30 min. The length of exposure was more influential on cytoskeletal alterations than the level of sWSS. The very small effect of sWSS on mucin secretion is most likely related to the much smaller amount of goblet cell than in other mucus-secreting tissue. The results for both oWSS amplitudes revealed similar trends regarding F-actin and mucin secretion. Immediately post-exposure we observed an increase in polymerization of F-actin filaments while mucin secretion decreased. However, after 24-h recovery we observed that both F-actin and mucin secretion returned to the same values as for unexposed cultures. The results of this study suggest that WSS should be considered while exploring the physiological characteristics of HCEC.
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Fernández I, López-Miguel A, Martín-Montañez V, Enríquez-de-Salamanca A, Calonge M, González-Méijome JM, González-García MJ. Inflammatory status predicts contact lens discomfort under adverse environmental conditions. Ocul Surf 2020; 18:829-840. [PMID: 32814157 DOI: 10.1016/j.jtos.2020.07.015] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/09/2019] [Revised: 07/15/2020] [Accepted: 07/25/2020] [Indexed: 11/18/2022]
Abstract
PURPOSE To characterize and predict the clinical and tear molecular response of contact lens (CL) wearers exposed to a controlled adverse desiccating environment (CADE). METHODS Objective and subjective variables and tear cytokine levels were evaluated of monthly silicone hydrogel CL wearers pre- and post-90 min of CADE exposure. Unsupervised hierarchical agglomerative clustering based on relative change from baseline values was used to identify response profiles (clusters). A multiple logistic regression model was used to identify cluster membership predictors. RESULTS Forty-seven CL wearers were divided into 3 clusters having similar age (mean: 27.7 ± 7.7 years) and sex distribution. All of them showed a significant (p ≤ 0.05) increase in limbal hyperemia and staining after CADE exposure. Additionally, Cluster-1 (n = 22, 46.8%) membership was characterized by a significant (p ≤ 0.05) higher worsening of corneal and limbal staining, increased CL wear symptoms, and reduced epidermal-growth-factor and increased interleukin (IL)-4 and IL-6 tear levels. Cluster-2 (n = 22, 46.8%) showed no changes (p > 0.05) in symptoms after CADE; however, their IL-12p70, monocyte-chemoattractant-protein-1 and regulated-on-activation, normal-T-cell-expressed-and-secreted (RANTES) post-exposure tear levels significantly (p ≤ 0.05) increased. Finally, Cluster-3 (n = 3, 6.4%) mainly showed significant higher blink rate (78.1 ± 21.7) during CADE. Corneal staining and tear IL-12p70 levels were identified as Cluster-1 membership predictors. CONCLUSIONS Most of silicone hydrogel CL wearers exposed to CADE showed a worsening of the ocular surface integrity and an upregulated tear inflammatory status. However, only half of them reported worsening of CL wear symptoms. These CL wearers were detected based on corneal integrity and tear inflammatory status. These findings can help reduce CL wear discontinuation and drop out.
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Affiliation(s)
- Itziar Fernández
- Biomedical Research Networking Center in Bioengineering, Biomaterials and Nanomedicine (CIBER-BBN), Valladolid, Spain; IOBA (Instituto de Oftalmobiología Aplicada), Universidad de Valladolid, Valladolid, Spain
| | - Alberto López-Miguel
- IOBA (Instituto de Oftalmobiología Aplicada), Universidad de Valladolid, Valladolid, Spain; Red Temática de Investigación Collaborative en Oftalmología (OftaRed), Instituto de Salud Carlos III, Madrid, Spain.
| | | | - Amalia Enríquez-de-Salamanca
- Biomedical Research Networking Center in Bioengineering, Biomaterials and Nanomedicine (CIBER-BBN), Valladolid, Spain; IOBA (Instituto de Oftalmobiología Aplicada), Universidad de Valladolid, Valladolid, Spain
| | - Margarita Calonge
- Biomedical Research Networking Center in Bioengineering, Biomaterials and Nanomedicine (CIBER-BBN), Valladolid, Spain; IOBA (Instituto de Oftalmobiología Aplicada), Universidad de Valladolid, Valladolid, Spain
| | - José M González-Méijome
- Clinical and Experimental Optometry Research Laboratory, Center of Physics, University of Minho, Braga, Portugal
| | - María J González-García
- Biomedical Research Networking Center in Bioengineering, Biomaterials and Nanomedicine (CIBER-BBN), Valladolid, Spain; IOBA (Instituto de Oftalmobiología Aplicada), Universidad de Valladolid, Valladolid, Spain
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Hernandez-Llamas S, Paz-Ramos AK, Marcos-Gonzalez P, Amparo F, Garza-Leon M. Symptoms of ocular surface disease in construction workers: comparative study with office workers. BMC Ophthalmol 2020; 20:272. [PMID: 32646387 PMCID: PMC7346666 DOI: 10.1186/s12886-020-01548-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/01/2020] [Accepted: 07/03/2020] [Indexed: 12/01/2022] Open
Abstract
Background To investigate and contrast the prevalence of dry eye symptoms in construction workers and office workers using the OSDI questionnaire. Methods A cross-sectional, observational study was conducted using the OSDI questionnaire to evaluate dry eye symptoms and associated risk factors. Sampled size calculation with a power of 80% and a 95% degree of confidence suggested the inclusion of 298 participants. Results We studied 304 subjects (149 construction workers and 155 office workers). More than half (55%) of the participants presented dry eye symptoms (OSDI > 12). The average OSDI score was 21.30 ± 22.20 points, being lower in the group of construction workers (12.45 ± 17.50) than in-office workers (28.51 ± 22.99) (p < 0.001). Considering participants who had moderate and severe symptoms (23 to 100 points in OSDI), office workers presented dry eye symptoms 4.15 times more frequently than construction workers (OR 4.15, 95% CI 2.52, 6.85). Women presented statistical evidence of higher OSDI scores than men (32.47 ± 23.72 vs. 14.87 ± 18.48, respectively). Conclusions construction workers have four times less risk of presenting dry eye symptoms than people working in the average office space. This highlights the pernicious effects on the ocular surface of the office environment, which poses a significant risk for the development or worsening of dry eye symptoms.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sergio Hernandez-Llamas
- Department of Clinical Sciences, Division of Health Sciences, University of Monterrey, San Pedro Garza García, Nuevo León, Mexico
| | - Ana Karen Paz-Ramos
- Department of Clinical Sciences, Division of Health Sciences, University of Monterrey, San Pedro Garza García, Nuevo León, Mexico
| | - Patricio Marcos-Gonzalez
- Department of Clinical Sciences, Division of Health Sciences, University of Monterrey, San Pedro Garza García, Nuevo León, Mexico
| | - Francisco Amparo
- Department of Clinical Sciences, Division of Health Sciences, University of Monterrey, San Pedro Garza García, Nuevo León, Mexico.,Cornea Service, Mass Eye, and Ear, Department of Ophthalmology, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Manuel Garza-Leon
- Department of Clinical Sciences, Division of Health Sciences, University of Monterrey, San Pedro Garza García, Nuevo León, Mexico.
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Idarraga MA, Guerrero JS, Mosle SG, Miralles F, Galor A, Kumar N. Relationships Between Short-Term Exposure to an Indoor Environment and Dry Eye (DE) Symptoms. J Clin Med 2020; 9:E1316. [PMID: 32370240 PMCID: PMC7290742 DOI: 10.3390/jcm9051316] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/07/2020] [Revised: 04/21/2020] [Accepted: 04/26/2020] [Indexed: 01/05/2023] Open
Abstract
Air composition influences Dry Eye (DE) symptoms as demonstrated by studies that have linked the outdoor environment to DE. However, there is insufficient data on the effect of short-term exposure to indoor environments on DE symptoms. We conducted a prospective experimental research, in which an older building served as an experimental site, and a newer building served as the control site. Indoor air quality was monitored in both buildings. One-hundred-and-ninety-four randomly selected individuals were interviewed in the afternoon exiting the buildings and de-identified responses were recorded. Self-reported DE symptoms were modeled with respect to experimental and control buildings, adjusting for potential confounders. The experimental site had 2-fold higher concentration of airborne particulate matter (24,436 vs. 12,213 ≥ 0.5 µm/ft3) and microbial colonies (1066 vs. 400/m3), as compared to the control building. DE symptoms were reported by 37.5% of individuals exiting the experimental and 28.4% exiting the control building. In the univariate analysis, subjects exiting the experimental building were 2.21× more likely to report worsening of DE symptoms since morning compared to the control building (p < 0.05). When adjusting for confounders, including a history of eye allergy, subjects from the experimental building were 13.3× more likely to report worsening of their DE symptoms (p < 0.05). Our findings suggest that short-term exposure to adverse indoor environmental conditions, specifically air pollution and bioaerosols, has an acutely negative impact on DE symptoms.
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Affiliation(s)
- Maria A. Idarraga
- Bascom Palmer Eye Institute, University of Miami, Miami, FL 33136, USA; (M.A.I.); (J.S.G.)
| | - Juan S. Guerrero
- Bascom Palmer Eye Institute, University of Miami, Miami, FL 33136, USA; (M.A.I.); (J.S.G.)
| | - Samantha G. Mosle
- Environmental Health Division, University of Miami, Miami, FL 33136, USA; (S.G.M.); (F.M.); (N.K.)
| | - Frank Miralles
- Environmental Health Division, University of Miami, Miami, FL 33136, USA; (S.G.M.); (F.M.); (N.K.)
| | - Anat Galor
- Bascom Palmer Eye Institute, University of Miami, Miami, FL 33136, USA; (M.A.I.); (J.S.G.)
- Department of Ophthalmology, Miami Veterans Administration Medical Center, Miami, FL 33125, USA
| | - Naresh Kumar
- Environmental Health Division, University of Miami, Miami, FL 33136, USA; (S.G.M.); (F.M.); (N.K.)
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Rodriguez-Garcia A, Loya-Garcia D, Hernandez-Quintela E, Navas A. Risk factors for ocular surface damage in Mexican patients with dry eye disease: a population-based study. Clin Ophthalmol 2018; 13:53-62. [PMID: 30613133 PMCID: PMC6306075 DOI: 10.2147/opth.s190803] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/23/2022] Open
Abstract
PURPOSE To analyze potential risk factors for ocular surface damage in a representative population of Mexican patients with dry eye disease (DED). PATIENTS AND METHODS A prospective and cross-sectional population-based epidemiologic cohort study was conducted through a survey of patients with symptoms, signs, known preexisting diagnosis, and clinical conditions related to DED. Fluorescein staining, tear break-up time (TBUT), and Oxford lissamine green staining were performed on both eyes of patients enrolled in the study. RESULTS A total of 2,725 surveys including 1,543 (56.6%) women and 1,182 (43.3%) men were analyzed. Most common pre-existing diagnosis included dry eye (58%), chronic blepharitis (17%), and ocular allergy (15%). More than 70% of patients had a positive fluorescein test, and this prevalence increased proportionally to the number of reasons for consultation. The same was true for gender (P<0.001) and age (P<0.0001), with women showing a strong correlation with age (R2=0.93912, P=0.001). The association between positive fluorescein staining and diagnosis was significant for dry eye (P<0.0001), Sjögren's syndrome (P<0.0001), and glaucoma (P<0.05). No significant association between TBUT and age or gender was found, but the shorter the TBUT, the larger the prevalence of fluorescein staining. Reduced TBUT was seen more frequently in patients with dry eye (57%), ocular allergy (16%), and chronic blepharitis (15%). Most patients (39%) with Oxford grades III and IV were older, complained of red eye (51.0%), foreign body sensation (47.0%), burning (46.0%), and were using eye drops (67%) and systemic medications (47%). CONCLUSION The Mexican profile of patients with significant ocular surface damage related to DED includes women at older ages, complaining of red eye, foreign body, and burning sensation. Diagnoses of dry eye, Sjögren's syndrome, and glaucoma were also risk factors for significant ocular surface damage, along with long-term use of preserved eyes drops and systemic medications.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alejandro Rodriguez-Garcia
- Tecnologico de Monterrey, Medical School and Health Sciences, Cornea and External Diseases Service, Institute of Ophthalmology and Visual Sciences, Monterrey, Mexico,
| | - Denise Loya-Garcia
- Tecnologico de Monterrey, Medical School and Health Sciences, Cornea and External Diseases Service, Institute of Ophthalmology and Visual Sciences, Monterrey, Mexico,
| | - Everardo Hernandez-Quintela
- Cornea and Refractive Surgery Service, Asociacion para Evitar la Ceguera en Mexico, I.A.P. Universidad Nacional Autonoma de Mexico, Ciudad de Mexico, Mexico
| | - Alejandro Navas
- Cornea and Refractive Surgery Service, Instituto de Oftalmologia Conde de Valenciana, I.A.P. Universidad Nacional Autonoma de Mexico, Ciudad de Mexico, Mexico
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Abstract
PURPOSE Modern offices and the use of electronic devices are increasing factors in work-related eye symptoms. However, symptoms of eye fatigue or dry eye sensation can be mixed and confusing. This study surveys the eye symptoms reported during a working day at modern offices to investigate the possible inhibition on daily work activities. METHODS Two online digital surveys were sent to three different work locations, by direct e-mail. Survey A consisted of 14 questions that investigated eye symptoms experienced during daily activities at work and the impact on daily activities. Survey B consisted of four general questions, the Dutch Ocular Surface Disease Index, the Work Productivity and Activity Index, and the Illness Perception Questionnaire. RESULTS A total of 505 participants completed survey A, and 213 completed survey B. The participants reported that a high proportion of their day was spent working on a computer (60%). The majority experienced an air draft (79.1%) and had no adjustable light (81.5%) at their workspace. Dry eye-related symptoms were reported at a significantly higher frequency at work than at home (P < .001). Up to 70% experienced some inhibition of daily activity at work due to eye symptoms, with more than 5% experiencing symptoms most or all of the time. Indoor environment, work environment, and general health were perceived as the main reasons for developing dry eye. Compared with males, females showed a statistically significant higher Ocular Surface Disease Index score (P < .001) and experienced more inhibition and adverse effects on daily life and work productivity. CONCLUSIONS This investigation shows that dry eye symptoms have a negative impact on daily activities at work. These findings suggest that multidisciplinary understanding of the negative impact of dry eye by a range of specialists will be of help in managing work-related dry eye.
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13
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Wolkoff P. External eye symptoms in indoor environments. INDOOR AIR 2017; 27:246-260. [PMID: 27444579 DOI: 10.1111/ina.12322] [Citation(s) in RCA: 44] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/20/2016] [Accepted: 07/19/2016] [Indexed: 05/22/2023]
Abstract
Eye irritation, for example dry or irritated eyes, is generally among top three reported symptoms in office-like environments, in particular among workplaces with cognitive demanding visual display unit (VDU) work. The symptoms are especially among middle and advanced ages and particularly among women more than men. The symptoms are also among the most commonly reported complaints in the eye clinic. To be in a position to interpret the high prevalence of eye symptoms, a multidisciplinary and integrated approach is necessary that involves the external eye physiology (separate from internal eye effects), eye diseases (evaporative dry eye (DE), aqueous-deficient DE, and gland dysfunctions), and risk factors that aggravate the stability of precorneal tear film (PTF) resulting in hyperosmolarity and initiation of inflammatory reactions. Indoor environmental, occupational and personal risk factors may aggravate the PTF stability; factors such as age, contact lenses, cosmetics, diet, draft, gender, low humidity and high temperature, medication, outdoor and combustion pollutants, and VDU work. Psychological stressors may further influence the reporting behavior of eye symptoms. The impact of the risk factors may occur in a combined and exacerbating manner.
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Affiliation(s)
- P Wolkoff
- National Research Centre for the Working Environment, Copenhagen, Denmark
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14
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Norbäck D, Hashim JH, Hashim Z, Sooria V, Ismail SA, Wieslander G. Ocular symptoms and tear film break up time (BUT) among junior high school students in Penang, Malaysia - Associations with fungal DNA in school dust. Int J Hyg Environ Health 2017; 220:697-703. [PMID: 28254266 DOI: 10.1016/j.ijheh.2017.01.016] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/07/2016] [Revised: 01/29/2017] [Accepted: 01/30/2017] [Indexed: 12/29/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND There are few studies on ocular effects of indoor mould exposure in schools, especially in the tropics OBJECTIVE: To study associations between eye symptoms and tear film break up time (BUT) in students and demographic data and fungal DNA in schools. METHODS A school environment study was performed among randomly selected students in eight randomly selected secondary schools in Penang, Malaysia. Information on eye symptoms and demographic data was collected by a standardised questionnaire. BUT was measured by two methods, self-reported BUT (SBUT) and by the non-invasive Tearscope (NIBUT). Dust was collected by vacuuming in 32 classrooms and analysed for five fungal DNA sequences. Geometric mean (GM) for total fungal DNA was 7.31*104 target copies per gram dust and for Aspergillus/Penicillium DNA 3.34*104 target copies per gram dust. Linear mixed models and 3-level multiple logistic regression were applied adjusting for demographic factors. RESULTS A total of 368 students (58%) participated and 17.4% reported weekly eye symptoms the last 3 months. The median SBUT and TBUT were 15 and 12s, respectively. Students wearing glasses (OR 2.41, p=0.01) and with a history of atopy (OR=2.67; p=0.008) had more eye symptoms. Girls had less eye symptoms than boys (OR=0.34; p=0.006) Indoor carbon dioxide in the classrooms was low (range 380-720ppm), temperature was 25-30°C and relative air humidity 70-88%. Total fungal DNA in vacuumed dust was associated with shorter SBUT (4s shorter per 105 target copies per gram dust; p=0.04) and NIBUT (4s shorter per 105 target copies per gram dust; p<0.001). Aspergillus/Penicillium DNA was associated with shorter NIBUT (5s shorter per 105 target copies per gram dust; p=0.01). CONCLUSION Fungal contamination in schools in a tropical country can be a risk factor for impaired tear film stability among students.
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Affiliation(s)
- Dan Norbäck
- Uppsala University, Department of Medical Science, Occupational and Environmental Medicine, University Hospital, 75185 Uppsala, Sweden.
| | - Jamal Hisham Hashim
- United Nations University-International Institute for Global Health, 56000 Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia; Department of Community Health, National University of Malaysia, 56000 Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia
| | - Zailina Hashim
- Department of Environmental and Occupational Health, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, Universiti Putra Malaysia, 43400 UPM, Serdang, Selangor, Malaysia
| | - Vinoshini Sooria
- Department of Community Health, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, Universiti Putra Malaysia, 43400 UPM, Serdang, Selangor, Malaysia
| | - Syazwan Aizat Ismail
- Department of Community Health, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, Universiti Putra Malaysia, 43400 UPM, Serdang, Selangor, Malaysia; Environmental Health, Allied Health Science College Sg Buloh, Ministry of Health Malaysia, 47000 Sungai Buloh; Selangor, Malaysia
| | - Gunilla Wieslander
- Uppsala University, Department of Medical Science, Occupational and Environmental Medicine, University Hospital, 75185 Uppsala, Sweden
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15
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Prediction of human sensory irritation due to ethyl acrylate: the appropriateness of time-weighted average concentration × time models for varying concentrations. Arch Toxicol 2017; 91:3051-3064. [DOI: 10.1007/s00204-017-1934-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/06/2016] [Accepted: 01/12/2017] [Indexed: 10/20/2022]
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Wolkoff P, Crump DR, Harrison PTC. Pollutant exposures and health symptoms in aircrew and office workers: Is there a link? ENVIRONMENT INTERNATIONAL 2016; 87:74-84. [PMID: 26641522 DOI: 10.1016/j.envint.2015.11.008] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/03/2015] [Revised: 11/04/2015] [Accepted: 11/09/2015] [Indexed: 06/05/2023]
Abstract
Sensory effects in eyes and airways are common symptoms reported by aircraft crew and office workers. Neurological symptoms, such as headache, have also been reported. To assess the commonality and differences in exposures and health symptoms, a literature search of aircraft cabin and office air concentrations of non-reactive volatile organic compounds (VOCs) and ozone-initiated terpene reaction products were compiled and assessed. Data for tricresyl phosphates, in particular tri-ortho-cresyl phosphate (ToCP), were also compiled, as well as information on other risk factors such as low relative humidity. A conservative health risk assessment for eye, airway and neurological effects was undertaken based on a "worst-case scenario" which assumed a simultaneous constant exposure for 8h to identified maximum concentrations in aircraft and offices. This used guidelines and reference values for sensory irritation for eyes and upper airways and airflow limitation; a tolerable daily intake value was used for ToCP. The assessment involved the use of hazard quotients or indexes, defined as the summed ratio(s) (%) of compound concentration(s) divided by their guideline value(s). The concentration data suggest that, under the assumption of a conservative "worst-case scenario", aircraft air and office concentrations of the compounds in question are not likely to be associated with sensory symptoms in eyes and airways. This is supported by the fact that maximum concentrations are, in general, associated with infrequent incidents and brief exposures. Sensory symptoms, in particular in eyes, appear to be exacerbated by environmental and occupational conditions that differ in aircraft and offices, e.g., ozone incidents, low relative humidity, low cabin pressure, and visual display unit work. The data do not support airflow limitation effects. For ToCP, in view of the conservative approach adopted here and the rareness of reported incidents, the health risk of exposure to this compound in aircraft is considered negligible.
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Affiliation(s)
- Peder Wolkoff
- National Research Centre for the Working Environment, Denmark.
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17
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Nørgaard AW, Kofoed-Sørensen V, Mandin C, Ventura G, Mabilia R, Perreca E, Cattaneo A, Spinazzè A, Mihucz VG, Szigeti T, de Kluizenaar Y, Cornelissen HJM, Trantallidi M, Carrer P, Sakellaris I, Bartzis J, Wolkoff P. Ozone-initiated terpene reaction products in five European offices: replacement of a floor cleaning agent. ENVIRONMENTAL SCIENCE & TECHNOLOGY 2014; 48:13331-13339. [PMID: 25299176 DOI: 10.1021/es504106j] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/04/2023]
Abstract
Cleaning agents often emit terpenes that react rapidly with ozone. These ozone-initiated reactions, which occur in the gas-phase and on surfaces, produce a host of gaseous and particulate oxygenated compounds with possible adverse health effects in the eyes and airways. Within the European Union (EU) project OFFICAIR, common ozone-initiated reaction products were measured before and after the replacement of the regular floor cleaning agent with a preselected low emitting floor cleaning agent in four offices located in four EU countries. One reference office in a fifth country did not use any floor cleaning agent. Limonene, α-pinene, 3-carene, dihydromyrcenol, geraniol, linalool, and α-terpineol were targeted for measurement together with the common terpene oxidation products formaldehyde, 4-acetyl-1-methylcyclohexene (4-AMCH), 3-isopropenyl-6-oxo-heptanal (IPOH), 6-methyl-5-heptene-2-one, (6-MHO), 4-oxopentanal (4-OPA), and dihydrocarvone (DHC). Two-hour air samples on Tenax TA and DNPH cartridges were taken in the morning, noon, and in the afternoon and analyzed by thermal desorption combined with gas chromatography/mass spectrometry and HPLC/UV analysis, respectively. Ozone was measured in all sites. All the regular cleaning agents emitted terpenes, mainly limonene and linalool. After the replacement of the cleaning agent, substantially lower concentrations of limonene and formaldehyde were observed. Some of the oxidation product concentrations, in particular that of 4-OPA, were also reduced in line with limonene. Maximum 2 h averaged concentrations of formaldehyde, 4-AMCH, 6-MHO, and IPOH would not give rise to acute eye irritation-related symptoms in office workers; similarly, 6-AMCH, DHC and 4-OPA would not result in airflow limitation to the airways.
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Affiliation(s)
- A W Nørgaard
- National Research Centre for the Working Environment, 2100 Copenhagen Ø, Denmark
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Thomason H, Montagnes DJS. Developing a quick and inexpensive in vitro (non-animal) bioassay for mascara irritation. Int J Cosmet Sci 2013; 36:134-9. [PMID: 24251684 DOI: 10.1111/ics.12106] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/19/2013] [Accepted: 11/15/2013] [Indexed: 01/14/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE Mascara is a mild irritant that causes a range of medical problems. Animal models to predict ocular irritation have, however, been questioned at a number of levels, and there is a continued need to develop in vitro testing methods. METHODS We assess changes in an easily quantifiable attribute, ciliated protozoan growth rate, as a sensitive, sublethal measure. Specifically, we test six, randomly chosen, commercial mascara products against a control (as treatments) and reveal through ANOVA (n = 6, α = 0.05) significant differences in the specific growth rate to treatments (for both protozoa). RESULTS We provide evidence that two easily cultured protozoa (Paramecium caudatum, Blepharisma japonicum) should be considered as models to assess ocular irritancy (and possibly cosmetics in general) and establish the groundwork for such studies to be applied at a more commercial level. We do this by developing a bioassay for mascara toxicity and indicate the low cost (after equipment is purchased, on the order of $100s) and the ease of performing such tests (able to be conducted by undergraduate students), as a consideration for their future commercial application. We first examined dose dependence of responses, revealing that there was a need to conduct preliminary work to determine appropriate levels for sublethal responses. We then show that some products resulted in mortality at high concentrations, others decreased growth rate by >50% (compared with the control), whereas others had no significant effect, compared with the control. CONCLUSION We have provided a novel, quick and inexpensive means to assess mascara; the next step is to validate these ciliate bioassays by comparison with animal testing and epidemiological studies, which is beyond the scope of this fundamental 'proof-of-concept' study.
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Affiliation(s)
- H Thomason
- Institute of Integrative Biology, University of Liverpool, Liverpool, L69 7ZB, U.K
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Zetterberg C, Forsman M, Richter H. Effects of visually demanding near work on trapezius muscle activity. J Electromyogr Kinesiol 2013; 23:1190-8. [DOI: 10.1016/j.jelekin.2013.06.003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 27] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/21/2012] [Revised: 06/10/2013] [Accepted: 06/10/2013] [Indexed: 11/24/2022] Open
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Abstract
Dry eye (DE) disease is an impairment of the lachrymal unit function and one the most frequent eye problems. A major challenge is to find accurate diagnostic criteria to be able to define DE severity, as symptoms poorly correlate with clinical signs. Tear osmolarity is considered a key factor in DE onset and perpetuation; its measurement is now possible in clinical setting by an innovative electrical impedance-based lab-on-a-chip technology. This article outlines the features of DE disease and the limitations of current clinical tests. The role of tear osmolarity in DE etiopathogenesis is surveyed, and the pitfalls in measurement are discussed. Diagnostic performance, accuracy and clinical applications of the technology in focus are critically reviewed. The instrument offers the possibility to measure tear osmolarity in a rapid and reliable way in daily practice. As scientific evidence grows, it is expected in the future that it will represent an objective indicator of ocular surface health in the management of DE disease and in clinical trials.
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Affiliation(s)
- Piera Versura
- Ophthalmology Unit, Alma Mater Studiorum University of Bologna, S. Orsola-Malpighi Teaching Hospital, Pad. 1 Palagi, Via Palagi 9, 40138 Bologna, Italy.
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Acute airway effects of airborne formaldehyde in sensitized and non-sensitized mice housed in a dry or humid environment. Toxicol Appl Pharmacol 2013; 268:294-9. [DOI: 10.1016/j.taap.2013.02.006] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/04/2013] [Accepted: 02/12/2013] [Indexed: 11/20/2022]
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Wolkoff P. Indoor air pollutants in office environments: assessment of comfort, health, and performance. Int J Hyg Environ Health 2012; 216:371-94. [PMID: 22954455 DOI: 10.1016/j.ijheh.2012.08.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 105] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/06/2012] [Revised: 07/28/2012] [Accepted: 08/05/2012] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
Abstract
Concentrations of volatile organic compounds (VOCs) in office environments are generally too low to cause sensory irritation in the eyes and airways on the basis of estimated thresholds for sensory irritation. Furthermore, effects in the lungs, e.g. inflammatory effects, have not been substantiated at indoor relevant concentrations. Some VOCs, including formaldehyde, in combination may under certain environmental and occupational conditions result in reported sensory irritation. The odour thresholds of several VOCs are low enough to influence the perceived air quality that result in a number of acute effects from reported sensory irritation in eyes and airways and deterioration of performance. The odour perception (air quality) depends on a number of factors that may influence the odour impact. There is neither clear indication that office dust particles may cause sensory effects, even not particles spiked with glucans, aldehydes or phthalates, nor lung effects; some inflammatory effects may be observed among asthmatics. Ozone-initiated terpene reaction products may be of concern in ozone-enriched environments (≥0.1mg/m(3)) and elevated limonene concentrations, partly due to the production of formaldehyde. Ambient particles may cause cardio-pulmonary effects, especially in susceptible people (e.g. elderly and sick people); even, short-term effects, e.g. from traffic emission and candle smoke may possibly have modulating and delayed effects on the heart, but otherwise adverse effects in the airways and lung functions have not been observed. Secondary organic aerosols generated in indoor ozone-initiated terpene reactions appear not to cause adverse effects in the airways; rather the gaseous products are relevant. Combined exposure to particles and ozone may evoke effects in subgroups of asthmatics. Based on an analysis of thresholds for odour and sensory irritation selected compounds are recommended for measurements to assess the indoor air quality and to minimize reports of irritation symptoms, deteriorated performance, and cardiovascular and pulmonary effects.
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Affiliation(s)
- Peder Wolkoff
- National Research Centre for the Working Environment, Copenhagen, Denmark.
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