■ Nicox S.A. has an exclusive agreement with Immco Diagnostics Inc. to promote a proprietary early Sjögren’s Syndrome detection lab test to North American eyecare professionals. The Immco test combines the biomarkers SP-1, CA-6, PSP, ANA, Ro, La and RF to aid in the early diagnosis of the condition.

■ The AOA has given its website, www.aoa.org, a makeover with an enhanced Doctor Locator, a single sign-on for an array of AOA features, such as EyeLearn online continuing education resources, and a “responsive design” for use on digital devices, such as smart phones.

■ Optometry Giving Sight is encouraging eyecare professionals to participate in this year’s World Sight Day Challenge fundraiser, held September 1 to October 10th. The event raises money for global uncorrected refractive error-induced avoidable blindness. Visit www.givingsight.org.

■ The Essilor Vision Foundation (Essilor of America) was recognized as a top five finalist for the UnitedHealthcare Shining Light: Leadership in Corporate Social Responsibility Award. The Award honors UnitedHealthcare corporate customers who have shown excellence in social responsibility.

■ Optometry students from the University at Birmingham and Nova Southwestern University tied for first place in the Varilux Optometry Student Bowl held at Optometry’s Meeting, in San Diego, Calif. — a first in the Bowl’s history. Each school receives a $1,000 prize and will share the Bowl’s crystal trophy. Also, the two students received an engraved Volk Optical Pan Retinal 2.2 diagnostic lenses.

■The Lagado LSH (mangofilcon A) soft contact lens, from Lagado Corporation (Menicon America) has received FDA clearance and is expected to be available later this year. The lens can be used in various designs and is plasma oxidized for a low wetting angle and enhanced wettability.