Goggle Sunglasses from Pharrell Williams

"As he explained on Today this morning, Pharrell Williams likes to try a little bit of everything, and now that includes one more paycheck: He's designed a line of sunglasses with high-end French brand Moncler," reports TheCut. "He not only helped design the gogglelike frames, but he'll also appear in the corresponding ad campaign, reports WWD. We considered writing a Blurred Lines<–inspired song about it, but that would necessitate listening to those lyrics yet again, so let's just look at the pictures instead. "Read more.

Essilor Looking for Business Model in Emerging Countries

Essilor International recently started 2.5 New Vision Generation. The company says that the new division will pioneer business models in emerging countries to bring good vision to the people in need. Today, 2.5 billion people need to have their vision corrected; 95% of them live in emerging countries. India and China have the largest number of people with uncorrected vision. If no action is taken, estimates show that this major social and economic issue will affect 3.2 billion people by 2050. Read more.

Chromosome Locus for Glaucoma Identiied

Science Daily reports that "scientists have identified a novel locus for glaucoma in Dandie Dinmont Terrier. The locus on canine chromosome 8 includes a 9.5 Mb region that is associated with glaucoma. The canine locus shares synteny to human chromosome 14, which has been previously associated with different types of human glaucomas. However, the actual glaucoma causing mutation in Dandies remains unknown." Read more.

New from A&A's Cruz

A&A Optical has released three new styles from the Cruz eyewear collection: I-516, I-710 and Woodward Ave. Affordable luxuries designed for the discriminating, modern man. The collection is said to encompass a unique mixture of elements in colors, coatings, materials and shapes. Read more.

New from Elle

"New Elle optical styles are influenced by the latest fashion trend and color inspirations. Tones embrace the autumn palette with warm hues of brown, purple, burgundy or red. Colors are presented in sophisticated expressions with trendily-colored Havanas," reports Midwest Lens. "Each new frame is highly polished to create a smooth surface that highlights the soft, feminine silhouette of each contemporary profile." Read more.

New from Marc Jacobs

“The Marc by Marc Jacobs Fall/Winter 2013/2014 eyewear collection draws inspiration from the bold aesthetic of 1930s and 1940s Hollywood. The new sunglasses and optical frames have chic silhouettes, refined details and rich colors, underlining a vision of classic sophistication.” So notes Midwest Lens. Read more.

Protective Eyewear from Kimberly-Clark

“Protective eyewear: When protection against the sun is important, Kimberly-Clark Professional introduces new and improved Jackson Safety Nemesis Polarized Safety Eyewear,” according to Utility Products. “The safety glasses offer extended protection in a polarized lens, reducing eye fatigue as well as providing superior peripheral vision and side protection through a sleek, wraparound design. A specialty lens minimizes the oriented light that causes glare, allowing the wearer to see fine details and deep colors without eyestrain, eye stress or fatigue. It does so without compromising or sacrificing clarity, performance or durability. The glasses are comfortable enough for all-day use.” Read more.

New from Blackfin

“Color, lightness, style, femininity: These are the characteristics that make the new frame of the Blackfin collection truly unique; Blackfin, a brand produced by Pramaor Italian titanium eyewear and distributed in the US by Villa Eyewear. The unique manufacturing process of Titanium and Beta Titanium with well-advanced techniques gives rise to models with a refined, modern and trendy design,” according to Midwest Lens. “All frames are made in Italy, processing the material at minimum thicknesses which ensure both absolute lightness and exceptional resistance. Furthermore, the patented SWORDFISH temple-tip – which, thanks to the “pre-programmed break” system, permits you to change the original length of the temple in three simple steps – and the pins in Greenspect PVC ensure a perfect and comfortable fit.” Read more. 

PBA Offers Site for Patients with sVMA

“As we age, many will start to experience distorted or decreased vision. There can be many reasons for these changes - but one diagnosis in particular may be less well known: symptomatic vitreomacular adhesion (symptomatic VMA), a disease that can occur in people over the age of 50 and primarily in those over 70,” notes the post on EyeWire Today. “In order to educate the public on this condition and new treatment options recently made available, Prevent Blindness America has introduced the sVMA Learning Center to its website, providing the most up-to-date information on the disease, warning signs and treatment options. Located at preventblindness.org/svma, the sVMA Learning Center is the newest addition to PBA’s online educational library that offers credible, comprehensive information on a range of vision-related topics.” Read more.

Wavefront Transforming the Optical Industry for ECPs

“Techniques developed by astronomers seeking a clear view of objects in space are coming closer to home, as eye care professionals apply the concept of wavefront optics to understanding—and correcting—subtle visual abnormalities of the human eye, according to a special article in the September issue of Optometry and Vision Science, official journal of the American Academy of Optometry.” That’s the start of a post on Science Blog. Read more.

Walmart to Offer Vision Benefits to Employee’s Dependents

“Walmart Stores said yesterday it will offer health-insurance benefits to domestic partners of its US employees starting next year, following the lead of other major companies,” reports the New York Post. “The world’s largest retailer, based in Bentonville, Ark., also plans to begin to offer vision care to its eligible employees and their dependents, according to information the retailer sent to workers this week.” Read more.

Read the Reuters version of the story.

Georgia’s QB Given Hard Time about Wearing CLs

“The list of things NCAA athletes cannot do now seems to include wearing contact lenses,” notes The Score. “When Georgia quarterback Aaron Murray told a group of reporters on Tuesday that he started using contacts, he didn't think it would be a big deal. After all, he is only wearing them during classes, like so many other college students across the country. Only, those students aren't projected to be the best quarterback in the SEC this season. According to the Macron Telegraph, Murray was forced to answer questions about his eyesight as reporters expressed some concern about his ability to perform this season.” Read more.

New from Zyloware’s Red Lotus

“Watching demographic trends and listening to retail requests for eyewear that is both fashionable as well as designed to fit, Zyloware announces the launch of Red Lotus by Zyloware,” according to Midwest Lens. “The collection, which includes elements such as rich colors, animal prints, layers and engravings that match styling women want, specifically fits broader faces, flatter bridges, high cheekbones and/or wide foreheads. These unique facial bone structures cause problems such as frames sliding down the wearer’s nose, resting on their temples or cheekbones, sitting too high or too low, or feeling too narrow at the sides of their head or nose. These fitting needs addressed by Red Lotus, which are most often identifiable as needs of Asian Americans, are designed for women of any ethnic background.” Read more.

Kids Promote Karen Walker’s Latest Sunglasses

“Karen Walker's latest eyewear advert features some adorable stars all under the age of five,” notes Marie-Claire on Yahoo. “Shot by renowned photographer Derek Henderson, the second 'Forever' campaign captures their ‘untarnished positivity and boundless curiosity’. ‘This group represents a carefree time in all our lives, when things were less complicated and everything lay ahead,’ says Walker.” Read more.

New Incentive Program from VSP

“VSP Global has introduced Premier, a voluntary initiative for eyecare providers,” reports VisionMonday. “’Premier is an innovative way to provide a high value experience with financial benefits for both VSP members and VSP doctors who choose to participate,” said Kate Renwick-Espinosa, chief marketing officer of VSP Global, who stressed that the initiative is completely voluntary. “Starting in January, VSP members get an extra $20 to spend on Altair or Marchon frames. Also, qualifying practices that are on the path to Premier get their typical reimbursement for the higher allowance and $10 savings on every Marchon and Altair frame,’ Renwick-Espinosa told VMail.” Read more.

Version of Google Glass Out Soon. Google CLs?

“A version of Google Glass for people who already wear glasses will arrive in a few months, the head of the Google project said Monday,” according to a post on CIO.com. “’In the next few months we will release a version that will integrate into glasses. So if you are wearing glasses, you'd be able to use this,’ said Babak Parviz, founder and head of the Google Glass project at Google, during a speech at the Hot Chips conference in Stanford, California, on Tuesday. If the Google Glass platform is successful, ‘you'll see different optics,’ Parviz said. But will there be Google Glass contact lenses? That is possible, but perhaps in the distant future, Parviz said.” Read more.

There’s also Computer World’s version of the story.

New from Hilfiger

The Tommy Hilfiger Group has introduced its Fall 2013 eyewear collection, entitled Back to University. The new collection of optical frames for men and women is inspired by the Tommy Hilfiger brand’s preppy, collegiate heritage. Celebrating Tommy Hilfiger’s classic, American, cool style, the collection features unisex and women’s optical frames. The collection will be featured in a billboard campaign in key European cities such as France, Germany, Spain and Italy. Print advertisements will be positioned on university campuses across Rome and Milan to support the new collection. Read more.

Digital Commerce Carves Finer Niches in Eyewear Marketplace

Unless you have been living under a rock for the past decade, you understand just how much marketing, especially retail marketing, in the optical business has changed. Even this from FramesDirect surprised us. We found the press release on Yahoo! News.

AFEyewear.com, the online eyewear retailer led by a group of military wives dedicated to providing exclusive prices and selection for those who serve, celebrates five years delivering the highest quality eyewear to U.S. military active duty personnel, veterans, retirees and their dependents. AFEyewear.com is the exclusive military discount brand of FramesDirect.com…Before AFEyewear.com, military families had few options available for purchasing eyewear on military bases and while deployed. Read more.

Development Has Implication for Treatment of Amblyopia

“A study in mice reveals an elegant circuit within the developing visual system that helps dictate how the eyes connect to the brain,” reports Science Daily. “The research, funded by the National Institutes of Health, has implications for treating amblyopia, a vision disorder that occurs when the brain ignores one eye in favor of the other.” Read more.

AAO Recognizes Achievements

Each year the American Academy of Optometry recognizes distinguished individuals who have made countless contributions to advancing the profession of optometry. The academy announced these 2013 award recipients:

• Gordon E. Legge, Ph.D., Charles F. Prentice Medal and Lecture Award
• David B. Elliott, Ph.D., MCOptom, Glenn A. Fry Award and Lecture (American Optometric Foundation Award)
• Pete Kollbaum, O.D., Ph.D., Irvin M. and Beatrice Borish Award
• George Woo, O.D., Ph.D., AAO-Essilor Award for Outstanding International Contributions to Optometry
• Sandra Block, O.D., Carel C. Koch Memorial Award
• Krystal L. Schulle, O.D., Julius F. Neumueller Award in Optics (American Optometric Foundation Award)
• Murray Fingeret, O.D., Vincent Ellerbrock Clinician Educator Award
• Louis J. Catania, O.D., Eminent Service Award
• Anthony P. Cullen, O.D., Ph.D., and Michael G. Harris, O.D., J.D., Life Fellow Award
• Padmaja Sankaridurg, BOptom, Ph.D.; Leslie Donovan, BOptom; Saulius Varnas, PhD; Arthur Ho, Ph.D.; Xiang Chen; Aldo Martinez, Ph.D.; Scott Fisher; Zhi Lin; Earl L. Smith, III, O.D., Ph.D.; Jian Ge, M.D.; and Brien A. Holden, Ph.D., D.Sc., Garland W. Clay Award
• Barbara Junghans, BOptom, Ph.D., Michael G. Harris Award for Excellence in Optometric Education (American Optometric Foundation Award)
• Awards of the Section on Cornea, Contact Lenses & Refractive Technologies, Lyndon W. Jones, Ph.D., FCOptom, Max Schapero Memorial Lecture Award
• Pat Caroline, Mark P. Andre, and Craig Norman, Founders’ Award

Award winners will be recognized at the Academy 2013 Seattle Awards Ceremony Oct. 25. The American Academy of Optometry’s annual meeting, Academy 2013 Seattle, will take place Oct. 23-26, 2013, at the Washington State Convention Center in Seattle, Wash.
For more information, visit www.aaopt.org

Online Eyewear and CL to Grow Faster than Economy

Consumer demand for at-home shopping will drive up demand for online eyewear and contact lenses, according to a report from IBISWorld. Revenue reportedly will increase at an average annual rate of 8.1% to $7.8 billion in the five years to 2013, with a 9.4% jump in 2013. During the recession, consumers out off discretionary eyewear purchases, opting instead for lower priced necessities. Since then, consumer discretionary spending has picked up, supporting revenue growth.

Over the five years to 2018, the industry will continue to grow. The economic recovery will drive industry demand. Expenditure on high-end luxury eyewear is also expected to resume as consumers regain confidence. “However, the industry will continue to face challenges from internal and external competition, and a move to collect sales tax for online retailers will threaten growth”, says an IBISWorld spokesperson. Read more.

New from Ogi Eyewear

“Ogi Eyewear is excited to announce the addition of three new styles to enhance the revolutionary Evo-Tec Collection,” notes Midwest Lens. “This innovative collection initially debuted as a collection for the modern male, although it has now expanded to include two elegant styles designed for any woman who desires a sleek, sophisticated look with a striking edge. This uniquely modern collection offers a foretaste of future eyewear textiles using an innovative combination of TR-90 surgical plastic and ultem to create an exceptionally lightweight, yet durable frame that offers superior flexibility without sacrificing strength.” Read more.

Federal Health Plans Cover Same-Sex Spouses

Practices that serve patients under the Federal Employees Health Benefits (FEHB) Program or Federal Employees Dental and Vision Insurance Program (FEDVIP) should be aware the health plans now extend coverage to same-sex spouses of married federal employees, according to the U.S. Office of Personnel Management (OPM), according to the American Optometric Assn. (AOA). Read more.

New from Best Image Eyewear

Dolabany Eyewear from Best Image Eyewear has released its Fall 2013 collection, including frame models Alicia and Ursula. They have been designed with a retro, cat-eye shape. This eyewear is one of the styles that guarantees to be the focal point of any ensemble. Beyond its design, it bears a deep and rich color styling. The Alicia comes in seductive colors as Hunter Demi, Purple Demi, and Brown Demi. The Ursula offers a contrasting color scheme in Black/Mustard, Burgundy/Purple, and Brown/Red. These colors offer the perfect complement to the overall style, guaranteed to ensure a captivating look each and every time worn. Read more.

VSP Launches AMD Awareness Campaign

VSP Vision Care is launching the VSP Eye on age-related macular degeneration campaign designed to increase consumer awareness about preventative care behaviors, support eye doctors with continuing education in providing essential care and providing free eyecare services to those in need. As part of the VSP Eye on Wellness program, which launched an Eye on Diabetes campaign four years ago, this campaign will highlight the importance of annual eye exams in the treatment of AMD. The program will also emphasize such preventive measures as eating nutrient-rich foods, incorporating a regular exercise routine, protecting your eyes from harmful ultraviolet (UV) light, and minimizing your exposure to digital devices that emit blue light. Read more.

New AREDS2 Supplement form B+L

Bausch + Lomb will introduce its new PreserVision AREDS2 formula eye vitamin and mineral supplement tomorrow at the 2013 American Society of Retina Specailists (ASRS) annual meeting in Toronto. It reportedly is the only commercially-available supplement in the United States that exactly matches the updated formula based on the latest clinical evidence from the National Eye Institute (NEI) Age-Related Eye Disease Study 2 (AREDS2).  A daily dose (two soft gels) provides  500 mg of vitamin C, 400 IU of vitamin E, 10 mg of lutein, two mg of zeaxanthin, 80 mg of zinc (zinc oxide), and two mg of copper (cupric oxide). Read more.

Opening New Avenues for the Treatment of AMD

“A new study changes our understanding of the pathogenesis of age-related macular degeneration (AMD),” reports Science Daily. “The researchers found that degenerative changes and loss of vision are caused by impaired function of the lysosomal clean-up mechanism, or autophagy, in the fundus of the eye. The results open new avenues for the treatment of the dry form of AMD, which currently lacks an efficient treatment.” Read more.

Cost Eye Care Costs Inched Up Last Year

Consumer costs related to eye care increased less than costs for any other health care service or related cost during 2012, reports the American Optometric Assn. (AOA). The Eyeglasses and Eye Care Services Index, compiled by the U.S. Department of Labor’s Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), increased a mere 0.3 percent during 2012. That was well under last year’s overall inflation rate of 1.7 percent and a fraction of the 3.2 percent increase posted for health care costs overall during 2012, according to BLS Consumer Price Index (CPI) data. AOA notes that virtually every year since the government first began tracking them, increases in patient charges related to eye care have trailed both the overall inflation rate and increases in charges related to most other health care services. Prices for eyewear and professional fees for eye care increased 0.7 percent in 2011. The overall inflation rate was 3 percent that year. Read more.

New from Zyloware

“Zyloware Eyewear reintroduces Via Spiga brand with entirely new and more fashion-forward styling,” notes Midwest Lens. “The releases are comprised of 8 styles and 18 skus inspired by Via Spiga’s latest trends including animal prints, wovens, geometric, mixed textures and hardware including stones and rivets.” Read more.

Get the Lowdown about AR Eyewear

Most people are aware of Google Glass, but they might not realize that many companies, such as Microsoft and Apple to name just two, are also developing AR Eyewear. Digital Trends has a great rundown of what those companies are proposing. Read more.

September is Sports Eye Injury Prevention Awareness Month

“Just in time for back-to-school, Prevent Blindness America, The Coalition to Prevent Sports Eye Injuries and Liberty Sport continue to support September 2013 as Sports Eye Injury Prevention Awareness Month in an effort to educate the public on the importance as to wearing proper eye protection while playing sports,” according to Midwest Lens. “The three organizations joined efforts three years ago to launch an awareness campaign to Eye Care Professionals, specifically those who are Sports Eye Injury Prevention Centers, and reached approximately 5,000 providers of Sports Protective Eyewear, providing them with the materials to make eye safety a priority for kids when playing sports.” Read more.

Scary CL Stories from Your Patients

“Every time Raymond Spence visits China, he always packs as many boxes of contact lenses as he can afford for his trip home to Britain,” reports the Global Times. “’It is more convenient and cheaper [buying contact lenses in China] than the UK," said the 21-year-old, who recently graduated from the University of Leeds. "Buying contact lenses in China is quite easy as a prescription isn't required, whereas in the UK you need a prescription unless you purchase contact lenses online.’ But the last time Spence bought contact lenses in Beijing he noticed a price hike. Now, he worries that it won't be long before they cost the same price as in the UK. When Zhang Huimin went to Australia for her postgraduate studies three years ago, she also stocked up contact lenses before leaving China so that she had enough to last 18 months.” Read more.

New from DuraHinge

“DuraHinge launches with three styles under the ClearVision Collection umbrella, with more styles being added in Spring 2014,” notes Midwest Lens. “Offering tough guy strength with a touch of style, DuraHinge frames feature today’s popular eye shapes like rectangles and navigators. Minimalist deign details like textured tooling insinuate masculine styling and add a bit of interest. Plus, wider end pieces and temples provide additional durability.” Read more.

More News about Omega 3s Benefits for Eyes

“Scientists working at the Research Center on Aging at the Health and Social Services Centre - University Institute of Geriatrics of Sherbrooke (CSSS-IUGS) have been studying strategies for protecting retinal pigment epithelium (RPE) cells. Dysfunction of the RPE is found in retinopathy and age-related macular degeneration, which is the leading cause of blindness of elderly people in developed countries.” That’s the report from Medical News Today. “Findings published in the Canadian Journal of Physiology and Pharmacology suggest that incubating retinal cells with vegetable oils induces biochemical and biophysical changes in the cell membrane, which may have a beneficial effect in preventing or slowing the development of retinopathy.” Read more.

Fourth Annual Marathon for the Blind and Visually Impaired

In partnership with VSP Vision Care, the United States Association of Blind Athletes (USABA) will host the Fourth Annual USABA National Marathon Championship, which will be held in conjunction with the California International Marathon (CIM) on December 2, 2012 in Sacramento, CA. Some 30 blind or visually impaired runners from around the world will compete, including 15 who will run the full marathon. These numbers far exceed past years and are up from 18 participants in 2011. Runners are representing 10 states, numerous Canadian provinces, China, and New Zealand, complementing the global reach the CIM has itself. (Picture from last year’s marathon.)

VSP Offers $10-Million Program for Kids’ Eye Exams

Some 15 million children will go back to school with undiagnosed vision issues, affecting how they perform in the classroom. In such a light, VSP has created the "Clicks for Kids" campaign, which will provide up to 25,000 gift certificates for vision exams and new glasses to Big Brothers Big Sisters programs nationwide – a total donation valued at close to $10 million.

New from ClearVision

“ClearVision Optical introduces the latest releases from Cole Haan eyewear, featuring six new, street smart styles for the city-chic collection,” according to Midwest Lens. “Hip and on trend with a touch of playfulness, these must-see releases are at the intersection of style and substance.” Read more.

Shipment of Google Glasses Postponed

“Google sources have backed away from earlier projections that the company's Glass wearable computer would ship later this year. The company now acknowledges that Glass won't ship until 2014,” reports Computerworld. “At the Google I/O developer conference in May, one internal source and another close to the company said that Glass would be available in 2013. In a recent email to Computerworld, one of the sources at Google I/O referenced Google's Glass ship date as 2014.” Read more.

Japanese to Investigate Safety of Colored CLs

"The National Consumer Affairs Center of Japan and the Japan Contact Lens Society will conduct joint research to determine if some colored contact lenses may pose a threat to the eyes of users because of poor quality," reports The Japan News. "Some of the lenses have been approved for sale by the central government. Among other things, the research will look into claims that the colored part of contacts can become uncovered and damage corneas. The Health, Labor and Welfare Ministry plans to consider remedial measures based on the results of the research." Read more.

Bassant Recovering after Heart/Lung Transplant

Many of you contributed to the fundraiser for Benny Bassant, the husband of an eye care provider working for Opticare, an 18-store practice of opticians, optometrists, and ophthalmologists in Connecticut. As you may recall, Benny had a congenital disease and, as a result, needed a heart and lung transplant. We’re pleased to report that Benny received both transplants last week and is recovering as his doctors expected. He still has a long way to go. The Bassant family is so very grateful to those who gave money to help pay for the transplant. Please keep Benny and his family in your thoughts and prayers.

Eye Exam: There’s an App for That

“It was only a matter of time before smartphones made the transition from communication device to full blown Star Trek tricorder. And with the development of Peek (an acronym for Portable Eye Examination Kit), that transition is nearly complete,” notes Gizmodo. “Peek…[is] currently being tested on 5,o00 people in Kenya who might not otherwise have access to an eye doctor, and it's damn close to providing all of the same service. The app uses the smartphone's camera to scan the eye for cataracts and activates the camera flash to scan the back of the eye for disease. It also employs a shrinking letter on the screen to conduct eye exams in the field.” Read more.

Study on Eye Motions Could Help with Vision Loss

“When something gets in the way of our ability to see, we quickly pick up a new way to look according to a new study,” reports Science Daily. “Our eyes are constantly on the move, darting this way and that. Now researchers have found that the precise manner of those eye movements can change within a matter of hours. This discovery might suggest a way to help those with macular degeneration better cope with vision loss.” Read more.

More Headway to Fix Macular Degeneration

“In a study published on line this week in the journal Human Molecular Genetics, Drs. Donita Garland, Rosario Fernandez-Godino, and Eric Pierce of the Ocular Genomics Institute at the Massachusetts Eye and Ear, Harvard Medical School along with their colleagues, reported the unexpected finding that in mice genetically engineered to have an inherited form of macular degeneration, turning off the animals' complement system, a part of the immune system, prevented the disease.” That’s the start of a Science Daily post. Read more.

New from Fashiontabulous

“Fashiontabulous, the go-to eyewear collection for aspiring fashionistas, embodies youth and style with its trendy silhouettes and upbeat design details,” writes Midwest Lens. “Flirty temple embellishments and creative color treatment are the signatures of this collection. Styles are sized to fit the smaller faces of teens, pre-teens and petite women. Pretty pink cases and matching cleaning cloths are available with qualifying purchases. All four of the new Fashiontabulous styles are made using handmade zyl and include spring hinges for added comfort and durability.” Read more.

Consumer Study by Jobson Optical

Vision Monday reports that “more than two thirds of consumers, 66 percent, say they purchased eyeglasses at the same location or retailer where they first had their eyes examined and seven out of 10 consumers (72 percent) said they selected their eyeglasses in less than an hour, according to a new report from Jobson Optical Research, which examines consumers’ eyewear purchasing decisions.” Read more.

Help CL Patients with J&J Kit

The American Optometric Association notes that Johnson & Johnson’s Healthy Vision & Contact Lenses offers helpful “Do’s and Don’ts” for handling and wearing contact lenses and offers some easy-to-follow steps on how to reduce the risk of contact lens-related infection through proper use and care of contact lenses as well as lens-care products such as contact lens cases.

It also includes a section for eye care professionals and/or staff to fill out with patients to reinforce replacement schedules, proper cleaning and disinfecting techniques, and a reminder on when to change their contact lens case. Information about other resources where consumers can find helpful information about proper wear and care is also included.

Healthy Vision & Contact Lenses is available in both PDF and print versions. The PDF copies, which practitioners can customize/personalize to include their contact information can be viewed and downloaded at www.ACUVUEProfessional.com/HVCL. The print versions include 50 tear-sheets on a pad.

New from Oga

“A thin-walled tube (0.4mm) allows the appearance of volume to marry with innovative lightness. The frames feature an ultra-clean, streamlined temple which is both fluid and soft. The tubular oblong-shaped stainless steel temple of the Tüb II and Tüb III frames is directly inspired by hydroforming techniques used on high-end bicycles,” says Midwest Lens. “Öga Tub II Tüb’s new eye shapes with softer angles offer a flattering fit for every face with perfectly balanced sizes and shapes. The clean soft lines and super-smooth metal create a feeling of sensuality in these models. Both Tüb II and Tüb III are stainless steel to ensure they are flexible, tough and corrosion resistant. The six models available in the concepts are available in discreet metallic shades such as matte black, blue, grey, and ruthenium.” Read more.

Revision Military Gets Swiss Army Eyewear Contract

Revision Military has landed “a 5-year contract to supply the Swiss Armed Forces with its protective eyewear needs,” says the Ottawa Citizen. “Following extensive user trials and meeting stringent performance requirements, Revision’s Sawfly Eyewear was selected as the all-purpose ballistic spectacle of choice. Beginning January 2014, it will become the standard issue spectacle to all Swiss troops—to the tune of 290,000 Sawfly Military Eyewear kits plus additional accessories. This is Revision’s second eyewear contract with the Swiss Armed forces; in 2008 they were awarded a contract to supply 10,000 Desert Locust Military Goggles.” Read more.

Iconic Eyewear According to Pop Chart Lab

“Of course, Bono and K. Lagerfeld aren’t the only famous people whose accessories have become an extension of their persona,” notes Wired. “Judging by Pop Chart Lab’s most recent graphic, The Chart of Famous Eyewear, there are at least 71 other celebrities whose glasses could be considered iconic. Some are more classic than others—think Jackie O’s bug eye shades or Buddy Holly’s proto-hipster, thick-rimmed glasses. But a decent swath of Pop Chart’s visualization celebrates the regrettable lapses in eyewear judgement (i.e. Stunna shades. Why Kanye, why?).” Read more.

You can get a copy of the poster at Pop Chart Lab for $27.

New from Mario Galbatti

“With the most sought after eyewear designs, the eyewear collection, releases the new frame model MG158,” according to Midwest Lens. “The model has been available for eye care professionals for a couple of months and has become very popular with optical fans. Production of these optical frames are made with a TR-90 material for the frame front with colors of: Matte Demi Amber, Matte Brown, Matte Red, Matte Blue, and Matte Black. Mario Galbatti has taken eyewear a step further than just producing a stylish frame, utilizing the finest of materials, the temples are made out of carbon fiber which creates a more comfortable pair of eyeglasses. With this eyewear design, one can have the best of both worlds: comfort and style. This is the choice for the season due to the durability, and the sleek, yet modern look and feel of these frames.” Read more.

How the Eye Evolved

“Professor Trevor Lamb of The Vision Centre and Australian National University conducted a major scientific review of the origin of the eye, in which he analyzes findings of hundreds of scientists worldwide,” according to Medical News Today. “From this review, published in the journal Progress in Retinal and Eye Research, the most significant finding is how the eye has evolved to become the organs we have today. Prof. Lamb says that the origins of sight date back to more than 700 million years ago. At this time, the earth was only inhabited by "single-celled amoeba like animals," such as bacteria, algae and corals.” Read more.

New Study Shows How a Plant Bacteria Might Help Us Better Understand Eye Disease

By borrowing a tool from bacteria that infect plants, scientists have developed a new approach to eliminate mutated DNA inside mitochondria—the energy factories within cells. Doctors might someday use the approach to treat a variety of mitochondrial diseases, including the degenerative eye disease Leber hereditary optic neuropathy (LHON). The research, published online today in Nature Medicine, was funded by the National Eye Institute (NEI), a part of the National Institutes of Health (NIH). Read more.

Better Understanding of How Glaucoma Begins

Researchers are making progress toward understanding how some cases of glaucoma begin. A new study from the National Eye Institute reveals that myocilin—a protein linked to a significant fraction of glaucoma—is needed to insulate peripheral nerves. The researchers theorize that myocilin could perform a similar function in the eye. That’s the word from a NEI press release. (Picture on the left: These are slices of mouse peripheral nerve. Left: In a normal mouse, a structural protein in myelin [red] surrounds nerve fibers (green). Right: When myocilin is missing, myelin proteins disappear, too. Credit: Kwon et al. Journal of Biological Chemistry.) Genes play a role in glaucoma. Mutations in the myocilin gene have been found in up to four percent of people with adult-onset glaucoma and 10 percent with juvenile-onset glaucoma. Researchers have long believed that myocilin helps maintain normal eye pressure. It's found at high levels within a sponge-like drainage system that regulates pressure inside the eye. But mice lacking the myocilin gene seem to have a normal drainage system, raising the possibility that the gene might be needed elsewhere. Read more.

Meanwhile, “researchers in Taiwan have discovered that people with sleep apnea are far more likely to develop glaucoma compared to those without the sleep condition,” notes Medical News Today. “The results of this study, which is the first to calculate the risk of the disease among people with the sleep disorder following diagnosis, is published in this month's edition of Ophthalmology.” Read more.

ODs Must Wait Til Next Year

“State Sen. Ed Hernandez is giving up for this year his effort to expand the kinds of medical services optometrists can offer in California,” according to a Sacramento Bee post. “The Democrat from West Covina said Monday that he is pulling his Senate Bill 492 from any further action in the Legislature this year, and will instead push for its passage in 2014. The bill would allow optometrists to diagnose and treat all kinds of ailments related to the eye, including conditions such as diabetes. Read more.

Johnson & Johnson Wins Patent Case with Rembrandt Vision

“The Federal Circuit on Wednesday upheld a district court victory for Johnson & Johnson Vision Care Inc. in a patent infringement case brought by Rembrandt Vision Technologies LP, finding that a judge correctly struck expert testimony the latter company claimed could have swayed the jury,” reports Law 360. “The 3-0 panel ruling affirms a decision by a Florida federal jury that two lines of Johnson & Johnson contact lenses did not infringe Rembrandt's patent for a type of soft contact lens that can be worn for extended periods.” Read more.

New Trend Possible in CL Wear

“A study found that although numerous demographic and contact lens-related factors affect frequency of contact lens wear, overall wear may be trending to lower frequency with the increasing popularity of daily disposables, the authors speculated,” notes Healio’s Primary Care Optometry News. “Data on 74,510 soft lens fits and 9,014 gas-permeable (GP) lens fits were collected from contact lens fitters and practitioners in about 40 countries between January and March for 5 consecutive years.” Read more.

New Device Regenerates Damaged Eye Cells

EP Global Communications, Inc. and EPGL Medical say that EPGL engineers have invented a new device for the purpose of treating serious eye diseases such as macular degeneration and retinitis pigmentosa. The technology emits low intensity pulse ultrasound into the eye for the purpose of regeneration of damaged cells and to possibly arrest the degeneration of existing healthy cells within the macula and the entire retina. Read more.

CL Generates Power from Eye Movement

“An Irvine, Calif.-based startup has invented an energy-harvesting power source for contact lenses that will enable the next-generation of optically delivered digital and biomedical applications,” starts the post on Design News. “EPGL Medical has created a micron-sized piezoelectric energy harvester that can fit within a contact lens and harvest energy from blinking and other eye movements, EPGL’s President and CEO Michael Hayes told Design News. This microelectrical mechanical systems (MEMS)-based harvester will provide a consistent wireless, battery- or RF-free power for applications that can deliver medication or a wide range of information to wearers of the lens, he told us.” Read more.

B+L Selling Face Mask for Common Eye Ailments

Bausch + Lomb and TheraPearl LLC are teaming up to market the Bausch + Lomb Thera*Pearl Eye Mask, a new option for consumers suffering from a variety of common ailments, including the most common type of dry eye. The mask is pliable and reusable, and features a face-hugging design that stays in place without dripping or leaking. The mask can be used for hot and cold therapy by chilling it in the freezer or refrigerator or heating it in the microwave.  The mask reportedly delivers consistent hot or cold therapy in the therapeutic temperature range for the doctor recommended period of treatment time (approximately 20 minutes at a time). Read more.

Warby Parker Takes Advantage of Industry’s Weakness

Despite a high level of product differentiation and large number of players, the competition within the retail eyewear market in the US is not forcing prices down. The near- monopoly situation in the production and distribution of eyewear results in high mark-ups, according to a press release from the creators of a report about the online eyewear company, Fast Market Research. Warby Parker company saw the existing situation as a business opportunity and aims to create a beneficial alternative to the overpriced designer glasses. The company keeps its costs low and sells directly to consumers. Warby Parker has been exceeding its sales targets. Its existing customer base is one of the largest drivers of its growth. To see an overview of the report, follow this link.

New from A&A Optical

A&A Optical has released four new ophthalmic frames (Ciao, Grace, Hepburn, and Moonlight) and one new sun frame (JCS511 Brown) from luxury collection: Jimmy Crystal New York. The collection is comprised of striking limited edition pieces reminiscent of a collector’s item. Each style features hand set Swarovski elements. Jimmy Crystal New York was established in 1991 and is renowned for fashion-forward designs and superior quality accessories. The designer pieces include ophthalmic eyewear, sunglasses and reading glasses in acetate, metal and combinations. Read more.

Also from A&A Optical: “Four new smart styles from PEZ® eyewear: Classmate, Cool Kid, Sugar Pop, and Hula Hoop,” notes Midwest Lens. “The PEZ collection offers stylish and classic eyewear for children in bright colored plastics, and super tough metals. Cable temples and pediatric fits are available for infants. Tough and sturdy, PEZ® eyewear offers a No Questions Asked Lifetime Warranty.” Read more.

Safety Eyewear from Gateway Wins Award

“Flight safety eyewear from Gateway Safety won the top spot in Industrial Safety & Hygiene News' first-ever Readers' Choice Awards contest, conducted online during March and April,” goes the press release published on Thomasnet. “Flight, a revolutionary design in eye protection, features exclusive, patent-pending temples that offer the biggest comfort advancement in safety eyewear in a generation. Flight was the top vote-getter in the category of Eye/Face Protection – Plano Safety Spectacles. The award winners, in several different industrial hygiene and safety categories, will be officially announced in the August issue of ISHN. Each winner also received a glass award commemorating their achievement.” Read more.

Scientists Understanding How Visual Systems Develop

"Scientists are developing a clearer picture of how visual systems develop in mammals. The findings offer important clues to the origin of retinal disorders later in life," according to Medical News Today. "In research published in the Journal of Neuroscience, University at Buffalo scientists and colleagues focused on a particular protein, called a transcription factor, that regulates gene activity necessary for the development of one type of retinal neuron, the horizontal cells. Horizontal cells process visual information by integrating and regulating input from rod and cone photoreceptors, which allow eyes to adjust to see well in both bright and dim light conditions." Read more.

Only Doctors Can Distribute CLs in Illinois

"Illinois has a new law regarding the sale of contact lenses," reports the Alton Daily News. "They’ve always required a prescription, but the new law says that contact lenses can be dispensed only by, or under the supervision of, a medical doctor, pharmacist or optometrist.  Dr. Donald Gordon, an optometrist in Clinton who is the optometric coordinator for the Illinois Department of Financial and Professional Regulation, says the issue at hand was the sale of cosmetic contact lenses by convenience stores and gas stations." Read more.

Essilor Strengthens Position in Managed Care

Through an EyeMed partnership and a recent acquisition, Essilor is strengthening its position in the managed care market. In its latest move, it acquired a majority share in Classic Optical Laboratories. Vision Monday reported that "Essilor has purchased a majority interest in Classic Optical Laboratories, a Youngstown wholesale laboratory that specializes in managing high-volume contracts for insurance organizations, managed care organizations, union organizations and trust funds, educational institutions, correctional facilities, manufacturing plants, and federal and state government programs, VMail has learned." Read more.

This acquisition comes a few weeks after Essilor tied into the new business "model" for Luxottica's EyeMed launched earlier this summer. That means for an optical shop "to participate in EyeMed’s network, providers will need to use EyeMed’s defined lab network.  The network...[will] include more than 120 labs including Essilor of America Labs, Essilor Partner labs and the Walman Optical family of businesses, including Walman, Soderberg, Harbor, Toledo and Rite-Style  The independent and Essilor partner labs will account for about half of the network by the end of 2013. Dallas-based Luxottica Lab Services is another lab option within EyeMed’s network. Providers can register for multiple EyeMed network labs and can change network labs at any time. For providers who want added flexibility, providers may use their own equipment for EyeMed’s single vision In-Office Finishing program. With this feature, providers receive an additional single vision dispensing payment," said a EyeMed spokesperson in an email to this blog, basically repeating what the company said earlier.

New from REM Eyewear

"REM Eyewear once again delivers unbeatable back-to-school collections from two of the most exciting kids brands on the planet – Converse and Lucky Brand. Year after year, REM proves that no one knows what kids want better than these style giants!" So says a post on Midwest Lens. "The 2013 eyewear release features the hottest colors of the season, paired with classic shapes and quality construction. Both collections bring whimsical designs and playful pops of color to an otherwise dull landscape of traditional kid’s eyewear options. Also available in larger sizes for in-between 'tweens,' Converse and Lucky Brand are back-to-school essentials." Read more.

New HEHP Grants and New HIPPAA Notices from AOA

Again this year, the AOA HEHP program provided grants of up to $5,000 for innovative community outreach projects addressing the vision-related objectives of the U.S. Department of Health & Human Service’s (HHS) Healthy People 2010 public health agenda. Read more.

New AOA Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act (HIPAA) Notice of Privacy Practices forms – reflecting new, more stringent, federal privacy protection standards – are now available for optometric practices through the AOA Marketplace. The new AOA HIPAA Notice of Privacy Practices assures patients their optometric practice strictly adheres to all federal privacy protection regulations. Read more.

Two Grants Awarded by Optometry Cares

This year, Optometry Cares – The AOA Foundation honored Cara Frasco, O.D., from Ohio with the Dr. W. David Sullins, Jr. InfantSEE Award. The award recognizes an individual doctor of optometry who has made significant contributions to optometry or his/her community for outstanding public service involving the program. Read more.

It also selected Matthew Bovenzi from the State University of New York State College of Optometry as the recipient of the $2,500 Dr. Seymour Galina Grant. The grant, one of the earliest endowed gifts to Optometry Cares, was established through a bequest from the late Seymour Galina, O.D. Read more.

Back to School PR Campaign Available from AOA

The AOA’s Back-to-School public relations campaign is focusing on the use of electronic devices by children and is geared toward educating parents about the importance of comprehensive eye exams. You can customize the news release for use in their communities, as well as share the AOA_Back to School_2013_Infographic. Read more.

More Patients May Opt for CR-39 Lenses

You may hear more patients turning down polycarbonates for CR-39s. The reason could be a Consumer Reports press release that has appeared on many news sites,, such as the one below from the Hartford Courant:

If you're like many of Consumer Reports' readers, you're buying prescription glasses from your eye doctor's office or an independent shop, and you're happy with the results. But you're probably paying much more than you would if you comparison shopped at different types of eyewear stores, including discounters such as Costco and online retailers. Doing just that, Consumer Reports was able to shave more than 40 percent off the prices of frames and lenses. That's good news considering that a pair of eyeglasses with just basic prescription lenses can cost you hundreds. When shopping for eyewear, Consumer Reports recommends: Research online. Even if you plan to buy locally, consider reading the how-to information on such websites as eyeglasses.com and LensesRx.com. Knowing something about the types of frames, lenses and coatings can help you understand your options and sense whether a store or website is trying to sell you more than you need. When Consumer Reports ordered glasses with a simple, single-vision prescription, one online shop automatically checked the box for $40 polycarbonate lenses, when $10 CR-39 lenses were just fine.

Read more.

High Pain Sensitivity and Low Tolerance Connected to Dry Eye?

Medical News Today reports that "high pain sensitivity and low pain tolerance appear to be associated with symptoms of dry eye disease (DED), adding to previous associations of the severity of tear insufficiency, cell damage, and psychological factors, according to a study by Jelle Vehof, Ph.D., of University Medical Center Groningen, the Netherlands, and colleagues." Read more.

Atomic-Scale Views Reveal Nature of Lens Transparency

Researchers have achieved dynamic, atomic-scale views of a protein needed to maintain the transparency of the lens in the human eye. The work, funded in part by the National Institutes of Health, could lead to new insights and drugs for treating cataract and a variety of other health conditions, according to a NEI press release. 

 Aquaporin proteins form water channels between cells and are found in many tissues, but aquaporin zero (AQP0) is found only in the mammalian lens, which focuses light onto the retina, at the back of the eye. The lens is primarily made up of unique cells called lens fibers that contain little else besides water and proteins called crystallins. Tight packing of these fibers and of the crystallin proteins within them helps create a uniform medium that allows light to pass through the lens, almost as if it were glass.Abnormal development or age-related changes in the lens can lead to cataract—a clouding of the lens that causes vision loss. Besides age, other risk factors for cataract include smoking, diabetes, and genetic factors. Mutations in the AQP0 gene can cause congenital cataract and may increase the risk of age-related cataract. Read more.

Hope Found for Effective Treatment of Amblyopia

"A new discovery by a University of Maryland-led research team offers hope for treating 'lazy eye' and other serious visual problems that are usually permanent unless they are corrected in early childhood," according to Science Digest. "During the so-called "critical period" when a young child's brain is adapting very quickly to new experiences, the brain builds a powerful neural network connecting the stronger eye to the visual cortex. But the weaker eye gets less stimulation and develops fewer synapses, or points of connection between neurons. Over time the brain learns to ignore the weaker eye. Mild forms of amblyopia such as 'lazy eye' result in problems with depth perception. In the most severe form, deprivation amblyopia, a cataract blocks light and starves the eye of visual experiences, significantly altering synaptic development and seriously impairing vision." Read more.

New Set of Eye Care Guidelines for Europe

"A set of guidelines establishing consistent guidance on the quality of service provision that the public should expect when accessing eye care has been developed for optometric and optical services in Europe, according to a European Council of Optometry and Optics press release." That's the lede from  a Healio post. Read more.

Alcon Gathering Data about Eyefile Users

"With an eye toward driving revenue and building long-term customer relationships, Alcon Laboratories called on The Agency Inside Harte-Hanks to transform Eyefile, the brand's free lens trial program, into a robust CRM [customer relationship management] tool packed with customer data that CIBA Vision could use to craft extremely personalized, hyper-targeted messaging based on specific needs and stated preferences," according to a post on Direct Marketing News.

"Currently, Eyefile consolidates information from the dozen or more CIBA Vision and Alcon brand sites into a single digital nerve center, which allows the brands' marketers to stay organized when it comes to collecting and using customer data. Visitors to any associated CIBA Vision Web property are invited to join the Eyefile family." Read more.