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A catalogue of neuronal cell types has often been called a 'parts list' of the brain1, and regarded as a prerequisite for understanding brain function2,3. In the optic lobe of Drosophila, rules of connectivity between cell types have already proven to be essential for understanding fly vision4,5. Here we analyse the fly connectome to complete the list of cell types intrinsic to the optic lobe, as well as the rules governing their connectivity. Most new cell types contain 10 to 100 cells, and integrate information over medium distances in the visual field. Some existing type families (Tm, Li, and LPi)6-10 at least double in number of types. A new serpentine medulla (Sm) interneuron family contains more types than any other. Three families of cross-neuropil types are revealed. The consistency of types is demonstrated by analysing the distances in high-dimensional feature space, and is further validated by algorithms that select small subsets of discriminative features. We use connectivity to hypothesize about the functional roles of cell types in motion, object and colour vision. Connectivity with 'boundary types' that straddle the optic lobe and central brain is also quantified. We showcase the advantages of connectomic cell typing: complete and unbiased sampling, a rich array of features based on connectivity and reduction of the connectome to a substantially simpler wiring diagram of cell types, with immediate relevance for brain function and development.

PURPOSE: This study uses deep neural network-generated rim-to-disc area ratio (RADAR) measurements and the disc damage likelihood scale (DDLS) to measure the rate of optic disc rim loss in a large cohort of glaucoma patients. METHODS: A deep neural network was used to calculate RADAR and DDLS for each optic disc photograph (ODP). Patient demographics, diagnosis, intraocular pressure (IOP), and mean deviation (MD) from perimetry were analyzed as risk factors for faster progression of RADAR. Receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curves were used to compare RADAR and DDLS in their utility to distinguish glaucoma from glaucoma suspect (GS) and for detecting glaucoma progression. RESULTS: A total of 13,679 ODPs with evidence of glaucomatous optic nerve damage from 4106 eyes of 2407 patients with glaucoma or GS were included. Of these eyes, 3264 (79.5%) had a diagnosis of glaucoma, and 842 (20.5%) eyes were GS. Mean ± SD baseline RADAR of GS and glaucoma were 0.67 ± 0.13 and 0.57 ± 0.18, respectively (P < 0.001). Older age, greater IOP fluctuation, baseline MD, right eye, and diagnosis of secondary open-angle glaucoma were associated with slope of RADAR. The mean baseline DDLS of GS and glaucoma were 3.78 and 4.39, respectively. Both RADAR and DDLS showed a less steep slope in advanced glaucoma. In glaucoma, the change of RADAR and DDLS correlated with the corresponding change in MD. RADAR and DDLS had a similar ability to discriminate glaucoma from GS and detect disease progression. Area under the ROC curve of RADAR and DDLS was 0.658 and 0.648. CONCLUSIONS: Automated calculation of RADAR and DDLS with a neural network can be used to evaluate the extent and long-term rate of optic disc rim loss and is further evidence of long-term nerve fiber loss in treated patients with glaucoma. TRANSLATIONAL RELEVANCE: Our study provides a large clinic-based experience for RADAR and DDLS measurements in GS and glaucoma with a neural network.

PURPOSE: To evaluate Humphrey Visual Field (HVF) test reliability and its associated risk factors in children with glaucoma or glaucoma suspect. DESIGN: Retrospective cohort study. METHODS: None. SETTING: Single-center childhood glaucoma clinic. PATIENT POPULATION: One hundred thirty-six patients aged ≤18 years with glaucoma/glaucoma suspect, and least 1 completed 24 to 2 HVF test between 2018 and 2023. OBSERVATION PROCEDURE: Demographic and clinical characteristics including age, primary language, visual acuity (VA), and glaucoma diagnosis were extracted from electronic health records. MAIN OUTCOME MEASURES: HVF 24 to 2 testing metrics, including FP, FN, and FL. Tests were defined as reliable using manufacturer guidelines of ≤33% FP, ≤33% FN, and ≤20% FL. For each patient, a reliability score was calculated as the percentage of reliable tests among all tests completed. A multivariable logistic regression model was used to determine factors associated with test-level reliability (yes/no). A multivariable linear regression model was used to determine factors associated with patient-level reliability score. RESULTS: Among 634 HVFs from 136 patients (Mean ± SD age at first test 12.0 ± 3.2 years, 47.8% female), 51.3% were reliable. Older age, better baseline VA, and English as primary language were associated with greater odds of test-level reliability (P < .04). Mean ± SD patient-level reliability score was 51.7 ± 38.1%. Older age at first clinic visit, better baseline VA, and English as primary language were associated with higher reliability scores (all P < .02), and number of prior VF tests was not (P = .56). CONCLUSIONS: Younger age, worse visual acuity, and non-English as primary language were associated with decreased reliability and should be considered when interpreting VF testing in children. A significant learning effect was not observed with repeated testing.

BackgroundTo examine long-term retinal nerve fibre layer thickness (RNFLT) variability and associated clinical factors in African (AD) and European descent (ED) individuals with glaucoma.MethodsThis retrospective cohort study included glaucoma eyes of AD and ED from Diagnostic Innovations in Glaucoma Study/The African Descent and Glaucoma Evaluation Study with ≥4 visits/2 years of follow-up. We calculated optic nerve head RNFLT variability per-examination/visit as the absolute error of its residuals across follow-up. Full, baseline and parsimonious linear-mixed models were fit to evaluate the effects of clinical factors (demographics and ocular characteristics, prior/intervening glaucoma surgeries and cataract extraction (CE), RNFLT thinning rate, scan quality, visit/testing frequency, etc) on RNFLT variability in both races.ResultsThere were 376 and 625 eyes (226 and 349 participants) of AD and ED, and the mean (95% CI) RNFLT variability was 1.62 (1.52, 1.71) µm and 1.42 (1.34, 1.50) µm, respectively (p=0.002). AD and ED had some shared predictors of RNFLT variability, including intraocular pressure fluctuation and scan quality, although the effects varied (p

Background/aimsTo investigate the association between longitudinal changes of foveal avascular zone (FAZ) area and the rate of structural and functional progression in glaucoma.MethodsA longitudinal cohort included 115 eyes (46 glaucoma suspect and 66 primary open-angle glaucoma) of 81 patients having ≥2 year follow-up, and ≥4 visits with optical coherence tomography angiography and visual field (VF). Eyes in the longitudinal cohort with a slope greater than that found in 95 percentile of separate healthy test-retest series for FAZ area were categorised into FAZ progressors; all other eyes were defined as FAZ non-progressors. A generalised linear mixed-effect model was used to investigate the association of FAZ progressors with demographic and clinical characteristics.ResultsFaster ganglion cell complex (GCC) thinning and faster VF mean deviation (MD) loss were found in eyes with FAZ progressors compared with FAZ non-progressors (mean difference: -0.7 (95% CI, -1.4 to -0.1) µm/y; p=0.026, -0.3 (-0.5 to -0.1) dB/y; p=0.017, respectively), while whole image vessel density was not associated with FAZ progressors (p=0.929). SD of intraocular pressure (IOP) and IOP range were also associated with FAZ progressors in separate multivariable models (OR: 1.54 (1.02 to 2.32) per 1 mm Hg higher, p=0.041; OR: 1.20 (1.01 to 1.41) per 1 mm Hg higher; p=0.035, respectively).ConclusionsSignificant FAZ increase was weakly associated with moderately faster rates of both GCC thinning and VF MD loss, but not macular vessel density change in glaucoma eyes. Additional studies are needed to elucidate the pathophysiological associations between macula GCC thinning and FAZ area increases in glaucoma.

AIM: We tested the hypothesis that visual field (VF) progression can be predicted with a deep learning model based on longitudinal pairs of optic disc photographs (ODP) acquired at earlier time points during follow-up. METHODS: 3919 eyes (2259 patients) with ≥2 ODPs at least 2 years apart, and ≥5 24-2 VF exams spanning ≥3 years of follow-up were included. Serial VF mean deviation (MD) rates of change were estimated starting at the fifth visit and subsequently by adding visits until final visit. VF progression was defined as a statistically significant negative slope at two consecutive visits and final visit. We built a twin-neural network with ResNet50-backbone. A pair of ODPs acquired up to a year before the VF progression date or the last VF in non-progressing eyes were included as input. Primary outcome measures were area under the receiver operating characteristic curve (AUC) and model accuracy. RESULTS: The average (SD) follow-up time and baseline VF MD were 8.1 (4.8) years and -3.3 (4.9) dB, respectively. VF progression was identified in 761 eyes (19%). The median (IQR) time to progression in progressing eyes was 7.3 (4.5-11.1) years. The AUC and accuracy for predicting VF progression were 0.862 (0.812-0.913) and 80.0% (73.9%-84.6%). When only fast-progressing eyes were considered (MD rate < -1.0 dB/year), AUC increased to 0.926 (0.857-0.994). CONCLUSIONS: A deep learning model can predict subsequent glaucoma progression from longitudinal ODPs with clinically relevant accuracy. This model may be implemented, after validation, for predicting glaucoma progression in the clinical setting.

PurposeTo compare rates of retinal nerve fiber layer change over time in healthy, eyes with nonprogressing glaucoma and eyes with progressing glaucoma using single wide-field (SWF) and optic nerve head (ONH) cube scan optical coherence tomography (OCT) images.MethodsForty-five eyes of 25 healthy individuals and 263 eyes of 161 glaucoma patients from the Diagnostic Innovations in Glaucoma Study were included. All eyes underwent 24-2 visual field testing and OCT (Spectralis SD-OCT) ONH and macular imaging. SWF images (up to 43° × 28°) were created by stitching together ONH cube scans centered on the optic disc and macular cube scans centered on the fovea. Visual field progression was defined as guided progression analysis likely progression and/or a significant (P < 0.01) mean deviation slope of less than -1.0 dB/year. Mixed effects models were used to compare rates of change. Highly myopic eyes were included.ResultsThirty glaucomatous eyes were classified as progressing. In eyes with glaucoma, mean global rate of change was -1.22 µm/year (P < 0.001) using SWF images and -0.83 µm/year (P = 0.003) using ONH cube scans. Rate of change was significantly greater in eyes with progressing glaucoma compared with eyes with nonprogressing glaucoma (-1.51 µm/year vs. -1.24 µm/year; P = 0.002) using SWF images and was similar using ONH cube scans (P = 0.27).ConclusionsIn this cohort that includes eyes with and without high axial myopia, the mean rate of retinal nerve fiber layer thinning measured using SWF images was faster in eyes with progressing glaucoma than in eyes with nonprogressing glaucoma. Wide-field OCT images including the ONH and macula can be effective for monitoring glaucomatous progression in patients with and without high myopia.

PurposeTo report on cases of unilateral perimacular atrophy after treatment with voretigene neparvovec-rzyl, in the setting of previous contralateral eye treatment with a different viral vector.DesignSingle-center, retrospective chart review.MethodsIn this case series, four patients between the ages of six and 11 years old with RPE65-related retinopathy were treated unilaterally with rAAV2-CB-hRPE65 as part of a gene augmentation clinical trial (NCT00749957). Six to 10 years later the contralateral eyes were treated with the Food and Drug Administration-approved drug, voretigene neparvovec-rzyl. Best-corrected visual acuity (BCVA), fundus photos, ocular coherence tomography, two-color dark-adapted perimetry, full field stimulus threshold testing (FST), and location of subretinal bleb and chorioretinal atrophy were evaluated.ResultsThree out of four patients showed unilateral perimacular atrophy after treatment with voretigene, ranging from five to 22 months after treatment. Areas of robust visual field improvement were followed by areas of chorioretinal atrophy. Despite perimacular changes, BCVA, FST, and subjective improvements in vision and nyctalopia were maintained. Perimacular atrophy was not observed in the first eye treated with the previous viral vector.ConclusionsWe observed areas of robust visual field improvement followed by perimacular atrophy in voretigene treated eyes, as compared to the initially treated contralateral eyes.Translational relevanceCaution is advised when using two different viral vectors between eyes in gene therapy. This may become an important issue in the future with increasing gene therapy clinical trials for inherited retinal dystrophies.

PurposeTo assess the feasibility and performance of Vivid Vision Perimetry (VVP), a new virtual reality (VR)-based visual field platform.MethodsChildren 7-18 years of age with visual acuity of 20/80 or better undergoing Humphrey visual field (HVF) testing were recruited to perform VVP, a VR-based test that uses suprathreshold stimuli to test 54 field locations and calculates a fraction seen score. Pearson correlation coefficients were calculated to evaluate correlation between HVF mean sensitivity and VVP mean fraction seen scores. Participants were surveyed regarding their experience.ResultsA total of 37 eyes of 23 participants (average age, 12.9 ± 3.1 years; 48% female) were included. All participants successfully completed VVP testing. Diagnoses included glaucoma (12), glaucoma suspect (7), steroid-induced ocular hypertension (3), and craniopharyngioma (1). Sixteen participants had prior HVF experience, and none had prior VVP experience, although 7 had previously used VR. Of the 23 HVF tests performed, 9 (39%) were unreliable due to fixation losses, false positives, or false negatives. Similarly, 35% of VVP tests were unreliable (as defined by accuracy of blind spot detection). Excluding unreliable HVF tests, the correlation between HVF average mean sensitivity and VVP mean fraction seen score was 0.48 (P = 0.02; 95% CI, 0.09-0.74). When asked about preference for the VVP or HVF examination, all participants favored the VVP, and 70% were "very satisfied" with VVP.ConclusionsIn our cohort of 23 pediatric subjects, VVP proved to be a clinically feasible VR-based visual field testing, which was uniformly preferred over HVF.

This study aimed to investigate the impact of eccentric-vision training on population receptive field (pRF) estimates to provide insights into brain plasticity processes driven by practice. Fifteen participants underwent functional magnetic resonance imaging (fMRI) measurements before and after behavioral training on a visual crowding task, where the relative orientation of the opening (gap position: up/down, left/right) in a Landolt C optotype had to be discriminated in the presence of flanking ring stimuli. Drifting checkerboard bar stimuli were used for pRF size estimation in multiple regions of interest (ROIs): dorsal-V1 (dV1), dorsal-V2 (dV2), ventral-V1 (vV1), and ventral-V2 (vV2), including the visual cortex region corresponding to the trained retinal location. pRF estimates in V1 and V2 were obtained along eccentricities from 0.5° to 9°. Statistical analyses revealed a significant decrease of the crowding anisotropy index (p = 0.009) after training, indicating improvement on crowding task performance following training. Notably, pRF sizes at and near the trained location decreased significantly (p = 0.005). Dorsal and ventral V2 exhibited significant pRF size reductions, especially at eccentricities where the training stimuli were presented (p < 0.001). In contrast, no significant changes in pRF estimates were found in either vV1 (p = 0.181) or dV1 (p = 0.055) voxels. These findings suggest that practice on a crowding task can lead to a reduction of pRF sizes in trained visual cortex, particularly in V2, highlighting the plasticity and adaptability of the adult visual system induced by prolonged training.

Background/aimsTo assess the long-term variability of macular optical coherence tomography (OCT)/OCT angiography (OCTA) and visual field (VF) parameters.MethodsHealthy and glaucoma eyes with ≥1-year follow-up were included. 24-2 VF and macular OCT/OCTA parameters, including VF mean deviation (MD), whole-image vessel density (wiVD) and ganglion cell complex thickness (wiGCC) were analysed. Intraclass correlation coefficient (ICC), root mean squared error (RMSE), within-subject test-retest SD (Sw) and test-retest variability were calculated for stable eye cohort (max follow-up=1.5 years). Rates of change and RMSE were evaluated in the extended cohort including all eyes (unlimited follow-up).ResultsFrom a total of 230 eyes (150 participants; age=67.7 years), 86 eyes (37%, 62 participants) were stable. In stable eyes, OCT parameters showed the highest mean (95%) ICC (wiGCC=0.99 (0.99, 0.99)), followed by VF (VF MD=0.91 (0.88, 0.93)) and OCTA (wiVD=0.82 (0.75, 0.87)). RMSE and Sw for VF MD were 0.92 dB and 0.81 dB, respectively, for wiVD were 1.64% and 1.48%, respectively, and for wiGCC, 0.91 µm and 0.78 µm, respectively. The long-term test-rest variability of VF MD, wiVD and wiGCC was 2.2 dB, 4.1% and 2.2 µm, respectively. In the extended cohort (mean follow-up=3.0 years), all parameters had significant rates of change (p

Background: Between 1962 and 1975, a chlor-alkali plant in Canada discharged approximately 9 metric tons of mercury (Hg) into the Wabigoon River. Over the following decades, biomarkers of Hg exposure of persons from Grassy Narrows First Nation (Asubpeeschoseewagong Anishinabek), located downriver from the discharge, reflected Hg concentrations in fish. Hg exposure is known to target the calcarine fissure, resulting in visual field (VF) loss. Most studies and clinical reports focus solely on peripheral VF loss; little is known about the impact of Hg on the central and paracentral portions. The present study sought to characterize the patterns of VF loss with respect to past and current Hg. Methods: A 28-year hair-Hg (HHg) database, created from a 1970–97 government biomonitoring program, served to select study participants with ≥ 4 year-based HHg measurements (n = 81). Blood-Hg was assessed for current exposure. Light sensitivity thresholds across the VF were analyzed monocularly, using a Humphrey Field Analyzer (HFA). Following post-hoc exclusions, based on HFA interpretation indices, 65 participants were retained. Both eyes were combined for analyses (n = 130 eyes). Unsupervised hierarchical clustering of HFA plot data was used to identify patterns of VF loss. A series of mixed effects models (MEM) were performed to test the associations for current Hg exposure with respect to HFA interpretation indices and clusters, as well as for longitudinal past Hg exposure. Results: The clustering approach decomposed the light sensitivity deficits into 5 concentric clusters, with greatest loss in the peripheral clusters. No relation was observed between any of the cluster scores and current blood-Hg. VF deficits increased with past Hg exposure. Longitudinal MEM showed that HHg was significantly (p < 0.05) associated with all peripheral, paracentral, and central cluster scores, as well as with HFA interpretation indices. Conclusions: Past Hg exposure in Grassy Narrows First Nation was associated with present day VF loss. The cluster-based location-specific approach identified patterns of VF loss associated with long-term Hg exposure, in both the peripheral and the central areas. The functional implications of this type of visual loss should be investigated. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In the field of computer vision, the application of hand-crafted as well as computer-learning-based methods in the field of image quality assessment has yielded remarkable results. However, in the field of no-reference image distortion, it is still challenging to accurately perceive and determine the quality of an image. To address the difficulties of Image Quality Assessment (IQA) in the field of authentic distorted images, we consider the use of the Swin Transformer (ST) to extract features. To enable the model to focus on both spatial and channel information of features, we design a plug-and-play Global Self-Attention Block (GSAB). At the same time, we introduce a Transformer block in the model to enhance the model's ability to capture long-range dependencies. Finally, we derive the prediction of image quality scores through a Dual-Branching structure. Our method is experimented on four synthetic datasets as well as two authentic datasets, and the results of the experiments are weighted according to the size of the datasets, and the results show that our method outperforms all the current methods and works well in the Generalization ability test, which proves that our method has a good generalization ability. The code will be posted subsequently at https://github.com/yanggege-new/NR-IQA-based-on-global-awareness. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study investigated the design processes for developing eye training materials for children with low vision (CLV) using computer game applications based on eye movement tracking to enhance their vision skills. The primary aim was to create interactive eye training materials tailored to improve CLV’s vision abilities. Employing a design-based research methodology, the study followed four distinct phases: analysis, development, evaluation and testing, and documentation and reflection. Initially, a game-based eye training program was developed. This program was then tested with CLV to gather relevant data for refining the design of eye-gaze games. Data were meticulously collected from a diverse group of stakeholders, including parents, special education teachers, ophthalmologists, and expert faculty members, using various methods such as interviews, focus group meetings, usability testing, and direct observations. The results provided critical insights into the design processes required to create a practical and usable game-based eye training program for CLV. These findings highlighted that children with low vision could benefit significantly from eye-tracking technology, using it to enhance their scanning, focusing, and tracking skills. Overall, the study suggests that eye-tracking technology offers a promising tool for developing vision-improving interventions for children with low vision, thus contributing valuable knowledge to the field of vision rehabilitation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Introduction: This study aims to evaluate the long-term clinical outcomes of excisional goniotomy with the Kahook Dual Blade (KDB) in the management of various types of glaucoma. Methods: This was a retrospective, noncomparative chart review of 90 eyes of 53 patients with glaucoma that underwent standalone KDB goniotomy (KDB-alone group) or KDB goniotomy with concomitant phacoemulsification (KDB-phaco group) between October 2015 and October 2017. Surgical success was defined as an intraocular pressure (IOP) reduction by ≥ 20% at the last follow-up with no surgical reinterventions required and a final IOP ≥ 4 mmHg and ≤ 21 mmHg. We also report on changes from baseline in IOP, number of glaucoma medications, best-corrected visual acuity (BCVA), and visual field parameters, for up to 72 months. Results: At 72 months, mean (standard deviation [SD]) IOP was reduced from 17.5 (5.7) to 13.6 (3.0) mmHg (P < 0.0001) in the KDB-phaco group and from 23.3 (5.9) to 15.1 (6.2) mmHg (P = 0.0593) in the KDB-alone group. The mean (SD) number of glaucoma medications was reduced from 1.3 (1.0) to 0.8 (0.9) (P < 0.0001) in the KDB-phaco group and from 1.2 (1.0) to 0.7 (0.8) (P = 0.3409) in the KDB-alone group. During the 72-month follow-up, surgical success was achieved in 24 of the 52 available eyes (46.2%). Four eyes underwent a glaucoma surgical reintervention by 72 months. Conclusions: Excisional goniotomy with the KDB effectively lowered the IOP (by an average of 28.0% from baseline) and maintained or further reduced glaucoma medication burdens (by an average of 30.8% from baseline) under an excellent safety profile, independent of phacoemulsification status. The procedure exhibited favorable success for up to 6 years, providing valuable insights into its long-term efficacy as a glaucoma treatment. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Sketch face recognition has recently gained significant attention in the field of computer vision due to its ability to quickly identify matched pairs of optical and sketch images. This technology has the potential to greatly improve the efficiency of law enforcement agencies in criminal investigations. However, there are still challenges that need to be addressed in sketch face recognition algorithms, such as modal differences and limited sample sizes. To overcome these issues, this study proposes a Residual Serialized Cross Grouping Transformer (RSCGT), which contains a residual serialized module to reduce the computation complexity, a two-layer Cross Grouping Transformer module that is capable of extracting modality-invariant context features, a domain adaptive module to mitigate the impact of modal differences. Additionally, we introduce a meta-learning training strategy to augment the generalization ability of this model. Experimental results demonstrate that the RSCGT achieves high accuracy in sketch face recognition tasks, even with small-scale datasets. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This review paper provides a comprehensive overview of machine vision pose measurement algorithms. The paper focuses on the state-of-the-art algorithms and their applications. The paper is structured as follows: the introduction in provides a brief overview of the field of machine vision pose measurement. Describes the commonly used algorithms for machine vision pose measurement. Discusses the factors that affect the accuracy and reliability of machine vision pose measurement algorithms. Summarizes the paper and provides future research directions. The paper highlights the need for more robust and accurate algorithms that can handle varying lighting conditions and occlusion. It also suggests that the integration of machine learning techniques may improve the performance of machine vision pose measurement algorithms. Overall, this review paper provides a comprehensive overview of machine vision pose measurement algorithms, their applications, and the factors that affect their accuracy and reliability. It provides a valuable resource for researchers and practitioners working in the field of computer vision. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Instrumental activities of daily living (IADL) are typically self-reported ability to perform complex tasks vital for independent living. There is a need for a complementary objective, performance-based approach especially in tracking outcomes in visual rehabilitation for patients with irreversible vision impairment ("low vision"). Our goals are: (1) To describe the validity of timed performance of instrumental activities of daily living (timed IADL or TIADL) tasks in individuals with irreversible vision impairment, by examining its association with visual function (visual acuity, contrast sensitivity, visual field), (2) To explore the correlation between TIADL and self-reported IADL. Methods: Twenty TIADL tasks were administered to 88 patients (median age 63.3 years, IQR 37.4–78.0) recruited from the UAB Department of Ophthalmology, Callahan Eye Hospital Clinics. An average Z-score incorporating time and accuracy of task completion was constructed. Minor accuracy errors were penalized 1 standard deviation from their calculated Z-score and major accuracy errors were assigned maximum allotted time. Linear regression was used to analyze the association between TIADL score and measured visual acuity (Early Treatment Diabetic Retinopathy Study, ETDRS chart), contrast sensitivity (Pelli-Robson), and binocular visual field (Esterman) with an unadjusted model and an adjusted model accounting for age, comorbidities, and depression scale (Center for Epidemiological Studies Depression, CES-D). Pearson correlation was used to estimate the correlation between TIADL and IADL. Results: Increased time to task completion was associated with decreased visual function. Each decreased line of ETDRS read was associated with an increase of 0.002 (95% CI 0.001, 0.002) Z-score (P < 0.01). A decreased ability to discern each Pelli-Robson letter was associated with an increase of 0.26 (95% CI 0.19, 0.33) Z-score (P < 0.01). For each less Esterman target identified, there was an increase of 0.01 (95% CI 0.003, 0.02) Z-score. Self-reported IADL and TIADL were correlated for reading tasks such as newspapers, nutrients on food can, and microwave timer (P < 0.05). Conclusions: Longer time to perform TIADL is associated with decreased visual acuity, contrast sensitivity, and binocular visual field. TIADL and self-reported IADL are significantly correlated for reading tasks providing an accurate, complementary outcome measure in clinical practice and research. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In various domains, virtual reality (VR) has emerged as a valuable tool for simulating specific scenarios and facilitating training within controlled and secure conditions. As peripheral vision plays a crucial role in numerous contexts, it must be duly considered in VR simulations. However, while peripheral vision was examined in VR, comparisons between VR and the real world (RW) are rarely made. Therefore, this study is aimed at comparing RW and VR reaction times (RTs) to peripheral visual stimuli and the field of view (FOV). This comparison is achieved using the peripheral perception‐R (PP‐R) of the Vienna Test System and a programmed virtual replica. The virtual replica underwent additional testing, revealing good reliability for RTs but only moderate to poor for measurements of the participant's FOV. The comparison between the two environments indicates slower RTs to peripheral visual stimuli in VR than in RW. This observed discrepancy is consistent with the results of previous studies investigating RTs to foveal stimuli and can be partially explained by the latencies in the hardware and software configurations used. Nevertheless, the observed correlations between the RTs in both conditions suggest comparable visual processing within the peripheral visual field and affirm the decent replication of the real PP‐R in VR. Overall, the study's results support the usage of VR as a tool for practicing and examining specific scenarios, including peripheral vision. The discrepancies revealed in the RTs between VR and RW emphasize the need to continue examining hardware and software components in VR research. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

During collective vigilance, it is commonly assumed that individual animals compromise their feeding time to be vigilant against predators, benefiting the entire group. One notable issue with this assumption concerns the unclear nature of predator ‘detection’, particularly in terms of vision. It remains uncertain how a vigilant individual utilizes its high-acuity vision (such as the fovea) to detect a predator cue and subsequently guide individual and collective escape responses. Using fine- scale motion- capture technologies, we tracked the head and body orientations of pigeons (hence reconstructed their visual fields and foveal projections) foraging in a flock during simulated predator attacks. Pigeons used their fovea to inspect predator cues. Earlier foveation on a predator cue was linked to preceding behaviors related to vigilance and feeding, such as head-up or down positions, head- scanning, and food-pecking. Moreover, earlier foveation predicted earlier evasion flights at both the individual and collective levels. However, we also found that relatively long delay between their foveation and escape responses in individuals obscured the relationship between these two responses. While our results largely support the existing assumptions about vigilance, they also underscore the importance of considering vision and addressing the disparity between detection and escape responses in future research. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

SfM (structure from motion) photogrammetry is a technique developed in the field of computer vision that enables the generation of three-dimensional (3D) models from a set of overlapping images captured from disparate angles. The application of this technique in the field of cultural heritage, particularly in the context of megalithic monuments, is inherently challenging due to the spatial constraints of these environments and the usual limitations posed by their architectural design, which often results in poor lighting conditions. This article presents an accurate and cost-efficient methodology for the study and documentation of rock art, which has been applied to three megalithic monuments in the Iberian Peninsula: one in Spain and two in Portugal. The three working environments are complex, but the combination of techniques used and improvements such as rendering for the enhancement of engravings and the creation of 3D stop-motion models made it possible to integrate all the information in 3D formats that allow its universal dissemination. This not only preserves the heritage in graphic form but also makes it accessible to the public, both for study and for virtual visits. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Facing the demand for accurate, fast, and natural human–computer interaction in the multi-screen control environment, the traditional exchange method of frequent switching control of multi-screen through mouse, keyboard, and other manual methods has problems of low efficiency, weak flexibility, and poor experience. In this paper, we research multi-screen precision control technology based on eye movement to break through the difficulties of precise recognition of human vision under complex environments and poor stability of vision estimation under frequent switching control of multi-screen. This study explores the technology for controlling multiple screens with high precision by tracking eye movements. It overcomes the challenges associated with reliably discerning human visual focus in intricate settings and the instability of visual assessments during rapid transitions between multiple screens. The experimental results of 1143 eye-movement capture tasks are studied, including the accurate recognition technology of human head posture and pupil gaze direction under complex backgrounds, illumination, and different visual field environments, and the theoretical modeling method of multi-screen precise target interaction based on eye-movement is explored. The expression data will be processed using convolutional neural networks, and the dataset will be trained through Python programming and tested on test samples collected by simulated flight crews in the laboratory with an accuracy rate of more than 85%. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A single-center prospective cohort study was conducted to investigate whether intraocular pressure (IOP)-related 24-h contact lens sensor (CLS) profile parameters can help predict glaucoma progression in patients with normal-tension glaucoma (NTG). CLS measurements (Triggerfish; SENSIMED, Etagnières, Switzerland) at baseline without medication were performed for 24 h in one eye, following diurnal IOP measurements using Goldmann applanation tonometry at 3-h intervals. Glaucoma progression during the follow-up period of ≥ 2 years was determined based on the Guided Progression Analysis of Humphrey visual fields and/or structural progression using fundus photographs. Among 79 patients (mean values: follow-up periods, 48.1 months; age, 51.5 years; baseline IOP, 14.0 mmHg; mean deviation, − 6.04 dB), 23 showed glaucoma progression. A smaller standard deviation of nocturnal ocular pulse amplitude in the CLS profile, a larger range of diurnal IOP at baseline, and the presence of optic disc hemorrhage (DH) during the study period were significant risk factors for glaucoma progression in the multivariate Cox proportional hazards model (hazard ratio, 0.30/mVeq, 1.23/mmHg, and 4.37/presence of DH; P = 0.016, 0.017, and 0.001, respectively). CLS measurements may be useful for assessing the risk of future glaucoma progression in patients with NTG, providing supplementary information to routine IOP measurements. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Road pavements undergo various environmental factors such as temperature changes, precipitation, and traffic exposure, which can lead to cracks in asphalt pavements compromising road user safety and necessitating costly repairs. To gain a deeper understanding of the mechanisms behind asphalt pavement cracking, this study proposes the utilization of the electrical resistivity tomography method to measure the electrical resistivity of soil‐supporting road pavements. Electrical resistivity measurements were conducted on soil‐supporting road pavements at various times, both before and during the winter season, in four different road sections. Two of these sections were located on Regional Road N707 in the Ifrane region, while the other two were located on National Road N13 in the Azrou and Timahdite regions. The results of the geophysical campaign provided valuable insights into the impact of the winter season on soil resistance and the formation of cracks in asphalt pavements. To achieve this, electrical tomography was employed to generate 2D images of the electrical resistivity of the soil, which were subsequently compared to asphalt cracking data collected in the field through visual surveys and/or asphalt cores. The 2D analysis of the electrical resistivity images of the road pavements under study revealed a decrease in electrical resistivity values during the winter season. This decrease can be attributed to a combination of factors including asphalt pavement cracking, water infiltration during winter, and soil characteristics supporting the asphalt pavement. These findings offer valuable insights intro targeted maintenance and repair efforts. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The presaccadic preview of a peripheral target enhances the efficiency of its postsaccadic processing, termed the extrafoveal preview effect. Peripheral visual performance--and thus the quality of the preview--varies around the visual field, even at isoeccentric locations: It is better along the horizontal than vertical meridian and along the lower than upper vertical meridian. To investigate whether these polar angle asymmetries influence the preview effect, we asked human participants to preview four tilted gratings at the cardinals, until a central cue indicated which one to saccade to. During the saccade, the target orientation either remained or slightly changed (valid/invalid preview). After saccade landing, participants discriminated the orientation of the (briefly presented) second grating. Stimulus contrast was titrated with adaptive staircases to assess visual performance. Expectedly, valid previews increased participants' postsaccadic contrast sensitivity. This preview benefit, however, was inversely related to polar angle perceptual asymmetries; largest at the upper, and smallest at the horizontal meridian. This finding reveals that the visual system compensates for peripheral asymmetries when integrating information across saccades, by selectively assigning higher weights to the less-well perceived preview information. Our study supports the recent line of evidence showing that perceptual dynamics around saccades vary with eye movement direction. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Humans explore visual scenes by alternating short fixations with saccades directing the fovea to points of interest. During fixation, the visual system not only examines the foveal stimulus at high resolution, but it also processes the extrafoveal input to plan the next saccade. Although foveal analysis and peripheral selection occur in parallel, little is known about the temporal dynamics of foveal and peripheral processing upon saccade landing, during fixation. Here we investigate whether the ability to localize changes across the visual field differs depending on when the change occurs during fixation, and on whether the change localization involves foveal, extrafoveal processing, or both. Our findings reveal that the ability to localize changes in peripheral areas of the visual field improves as a function of time after fixation onset, whereas localization accuracy for foveal stimuli remains approximately constant. Importantly, this pattern holds regardless of whether individuals monitor only foveal or peripheral stimuli, or both simultaneously. Altogether, these results show that the visual system is more attuned to the foveal input early on during fixation, whereas change localization for peripheral stimuli progressively improves throughout fixation, possibly as a consequence of an increased readiness to plan the next saccade. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

With the advancement of 3D scanning technologies and deep learning theories, point cloud-based deep learning networks have gained considerable attention in the fields of 3D vision and computer graphics. Leveraging the rich geometric information present in 3D point clouds, these networks facilitate more accurate feature learning tasks. However, existing networks often suffer from generalization defects caused by variations in pose and inconsistent representations of training data. In this paper, we propose a novel data augmentation framework to overcome these limitations. Our approach utilizes principal component analysis (PCA) to generate four aligned copies of a point cloud. These copies are then input into a multi-channel structure, which is compatible with popular backbones of point cloud-based deep networks. Finally, the outputs of the multi-channel structure are merged to generate rotation-invariant feature learning results. Experimental evaluations demonstrate the efficacy of our framework, showcasing significant improvements in various existing point cloud-based deep learning methods. Notably, our method exhibits enhanced robustness in classification tasks, particularly when dealing with point clouds containing random pose variations and non-uniform densities. Project link: https://github.com/LAB123-tech/PCAlign. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Navigation is essential for moving between locations in our daily lives. We investigated the relationship between visual impairment in glaucoma and path-integration-based navigation. Fourteen glaucoma and 15 controls underwent ophthalmological examination (including visual acuity (logMAR), visual field sensitivity (MD: mean deviation from matched reference cohort), and peripapillary retinal nerve fiber layer (pRNFL)). Both groups navigated physically in virtual reality (VR) environments during daylight and dawn conditions. Briefly, the participants traversed a path marked by three targets, subsequently pointing back to the path's origin. Outcome measures included (i) travel-time, (ii) pointing-time, and (iii) Euclidian-distance error between indicated and starting position. Robust linear regression was conducted between visual function outcomes of the better eye and VR outcome measures. Glaucoma patients showed increase in travel-time (by 8.2 ± 1.7 s; p = 0.002) and in pointing-time (by 5.3 ± 1.6 s; p = 0.016). Predictors were MD for all outcome measures (p < 0.01) and pRNFL for travel-time (p < 0.01). The results suggest that the effect of glaucoma on the elapsed time depends on disease progression, i.e. people with stronger visual impairment need more time. This uncertainty during everyday navigation tasks may adversely affect their quality of life. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Color vision in honeybees is a well-documented perceptual phenomenon including multiple behavioral tests of trichromaticity and color opponency. Data on the combined color/space properties of high order visual neurons in the bee brain is however limited. Here we fill this gap by analyzing the activity of neurons in the anterior optic tract (AOT), a high order brain region suggested to be involved in chromatic processing. The spectral response properties of 72 units were measured using UV, blue and green light stimuli presented in 266 positions of the visual field. The majority of these units comprise combined chromatic-spatial processing properties. We found eight different neuron categories in terms of their spectral, spatial and temporal response properties. Color-opponent neurons, the most abundant neural category in the AOT, present large receptive fields and activity patterns that were typically opponent between UV and blue or green, particularly during the on-tonic response phase. Receptive field shapes and activity patterns of these color processing neurons are more similar between blue and green, than between UV and blue or green. We also identified intricate spatial antagonism and double spectral opponency in some receptive fields of color-opponent units. Stimulation protocols with different color combinations applied to 21 AOT units allowed us to uncover additional levels of spectral antagonism and hidden inhibitory inputs, even in some units that were initially classified as broad-band neurons based in their responses to single spectral lights. The results are discussed in the context of floral color discrimination and celestial spectral gradients. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Color is an important visual feature that informs behavior, and the retinal basis for color vision has been studied across various vertebrate species. While many studies have investigated how color information is processed in visual brain areas of primate species, we have limited understanding of how it is organized beyond the retina in other species, including most dichromatic mammals. In this study, we systematically characterized how color is represented in the primary visual cortex (V1) of mice. Using large-scale neuronal recordings and a luminance and color noise stimulus, we found that more than a third of neurons in mouse V1 are color-opponent in their receptive field center, while the receptive field surround predominantly captures luminance contrast. Furthermore, we found that color-opponency is especially pronounced in posterior V1 that encodes the sky, matching the statistics of natural scenes experienced by mice. Using unsupervised clustering, we demonstrate that the asymmetry in color representations across cortex can be explained by an uneven distribution of green-On/UV-Off color-opponent response types that are represented in the upper visual field. Finally, a simple model with natural scene-inspired parametric stimuli shows that green-On/UV-Off color-opponent response types may enhance the detection of 'predatory'-like dark UV-objects in noisy daylight scenes. The results from this study highlight the relevance of color processing in the mouse visual system and contribute to our understanding of how color information is organized in the visual hierarchy across species. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Persistent subretinal fluid (PSF) after scleral bucking of rhegmatogenous retinal detachment may delay recovery and affect the final visual quality, but with no effective treatment. This study firstly investigated the safety and efficacy of 577 nm yellow subthreshold micropulse laser (SML) on PSF after scleral bucking surgery. This double-masked randomized clinical trial was conducted from December 2020 to October 2022 at Chongqing Aier Eye Hospital. Participants with PSF last for 1 month after scleral bucking surgery with break closed and retina reattachment were recruitment. These participants were treated by 577 nm yellow SML or sham treatment. Funduscopy, optical coherence tomography (OCT) volume change, best corrected vision acuity (BCVA) and visual field test were evaluated for six mouths follow-up. A total of 24 participants were randomized into SML group or Sham group equally. Compared with Sham group, the OCT volume within 6 mm of macular fovea was significantly less in SML group 6 months after therapy (P = 0.048). There were no statistically significant differences of OCT volume at 1, 2 and 3 months from baseline between groups. BCVA of ETDRS letters had no statistically significant difference. Pattern Standard Deviation amelioration (P = 0.039) had statistically significance in SML group compared with Sham group. There were no complications in the 2 groups. These preliminary findings suggest that 577 nm yellow SML therapy could accelerate PSF absorption after scleral bucking surgery. Trial registration: Chinese Clinical Trial Registry No. ChiCTR2000037838, 02/09/2020, https://www.chictr.org.cn/showproj.html?proj=51885. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Bacteria are mostly everywhere, some of them affect health safety of human beings, plants and animals all the time. Photocatalytic antibacterial technology has entered people's field of vision due to their high-efficiency and sustainability. In this study, LaCoO 3 precursors were prepared by solvothermal synthesis, and then calcined to obtain self-assembled LaCoO 3 microspheres. Subsequently, LaCoO 3 /Ag 3 PO 4 microspheres were synthesized by in-situ precipitation method. Compared with pure LaCoO 3 microspheres, the introduction of Ag 3 PO 4 nanoparticles can effectively enhance the antibacterial performance of LaCoO 3 /Ag 3 PO 4 nanocomposites. LaCoO 3 /Ag 3 PO 4 nanocomposites' Minimum Inhibitory Concentrations (MICs) against Escherichia coli (E. coli) and Staphylococcus aureus (S. aureus) were tested to be 0.1 mg mL−1 and 0.15 mg mL−1, respectively. Under visible light irradiation for 20 min, the antibacterial rate of nanocomposites against E. coli and S. aureus was 99.9 % and 98.3 %, correspondingly. This can be attributed to the fact that LaCoO 3 /Ag 3 PO 4 heterojunction significantly improves the responsiveness of visible light, carrier separation and migration efficiency of LaCoO 3 , which promotes the nanocomposite to produce a large number of ROS under visible light. In addition, LaCoO 3 /Ag 3 PO 4 nanocomposites had a strong oxidation effect on glutathione (GSH), resulting in the failure of the antioxidant defense system of bacteria. Also, the release of Ag+ and plasma effect of Ag are also important reasons for the high antibacterial performance of LaCoO 3 /Ag 3 PO 4 nanocomposites. The photoresponse of LaCoO 3 -based nanomaterials under visible light is effectively improved by constructing heterojunctions, the separation efficiency of photogenerated electron-hole pairs is increased, and the carrier transport is accelerated, thus achieving high efficiency and broad spectrum antibacterial effect. This research shows that LaCoO 3 nanocomposites can be used as a prospective photocatalytic antibacterial material, enhances the value of practical applications. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Previous studies have shown that music expertise relates to the hemispheric lateralization of music reading among musicians and non-musicians. However, it remains unclear that how music expertise modulates the hemispheric lateralization of music reading along the music learning trajectory and how music expertise modulates the hemispheric lateralization of reading different musical elements. This study examined how music expertise modulates the hemispheric lateralization of music reading in pitch elements (e.g., pitch, harmony), temporal elements (e.g., rhythm), and expressive elements (e.g., articulation) among musicians, music learners, and non-musicians. Musicians (n = 38), music learners (n = 26), and non-musicians (n = 33) worked on a set of divided visual field sequential matching tasks with four musical elements, i.e., pitch, harmony, rhythm, and articulation, in separate blocks. An eye-tracker was used to ensure participants' central fixation before each trial. Participants judged whether the first and second target stimuli were the same as quickly and accurately as possible. The findings showed that for musicians, no significant differences were observed between the left visual field (LVF) and the right visual field (RVF), suggesting musicians' bilateral representation in music reading. Music learners had an RVF/LH (left hemisphere) advantage over the LVF/RH (right hemisphere), suggesting music learners tended to be more left-lateralized in music reading. In contrast, non-musicians had an LVF/RH advantage over the RVF/LH, suggesting non-musicians tended to be more right-lateralized in music reading. In addition, music expertise correlates with the laterality index (LI) in music reading, suggesting that the better the overall performance in music expertise task, the greater the tendency to be more left-lateralized in music reading. Nonetheless, musicians, music learners, and non-musicians did not show different visual field effects in any individual musical elements respectively, suggesting the cognitive processes involved might share similar lateralization effects among the three groups when only one particular musical element is examined. In general, this study suggests the effect of music training on brain plasticity along the music learning trajectory. It also highlights the possibilities that bilateral or left hemispheric lateralization may serve as an expertise marker for musical reading. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose: To represent 24–2 visual field (VF) losses of individual patients using a hybrid approach of archetypal analysis (AA) and fuzzy c-means (FCM) clustering. Methods: In this multicenter retrospective study, we classified characteristic patterns of 24–2 VF using AA and decomposed them with FCM clustering. We predicted the change in mean deviation (MD) through supervised machine learning from decomposition coefficient change. In addition, we compared the areas under the receiver operating characteristic curves (AUCs) of the decomposition coefficient slopes to detect VF progression using three criteria: MD slope, Visual Field Index slope, and pointwise linear regression analysis. Results: We identified 16 characteristic patterns (archetypes or ATs) of 24–2 VF from 132,938 VFs of 18,033 participants using AA. The hybrid approach using FCM revealed a lower mean squared error and greater correlation coefficient than the AA single approach for predicting MD change (all P ≤ 0.001). Three of 16 AUCs of the FCM decomposition coefficient slopes outperformed the AA decomposition coefficient slopes in detecting VF progression for all three criteria (AT5, superior altitudinal defect; AT10, double arcuate defect; AT13, total loss) (all P ≤ 0.028). Conclusion: A hybrid approach combining AA and FCM to analyze 24–2 VF can visualize VF tests in characteristic patterns and enhance detection of VF progression with lossless decomposition. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose: To classify CVI subtypes and compare the added value of an extensive test battery over a limited test battery in subtype classification of cerebral visual impairment (CVI) in children. Methods: Seventy-five children with a clinical diagnosis of CVI (median [IQR] age: 9 [7–12] years) were identified from the medical records. The extensive test battery included visual acuity, contrast sensitivity, ocular alignment, eye movement analysis, visual field analysis, optic nerve head evaluation, and evaluation of visual perception. The limited test battery included visual acuity, contrast sensitivity, ocular alignment, and evaluation of visual perception. Principal component analysis (PCA) followed by cluster analysis was done, for both test batteries separately, to determine the optimum subtype classification for CVI. Results: Fifty-one participants with an extensive test battery with mild to moderate visual impairment were included in the main analysis. This resulted in four CVI subtypes for the extensive test battery (subtle characteristics, higher-level visual function deficits, lower-level visual function deficits, and higher- and lowerlevel visual function deficits) and three CVI subtypes for the limited test battery (subtle characteristics, higher-level visual function deficits, and higher- and lower- level visual function deficits). There were significant differences between the subtypes for 9 out of 10 measures of the extensive and all 4 measures of the limited test battery (p  <  0.05). The subtle characteristics subtype (extensive n  =  19, limited n  =  15) showed near normal lower and higher-level visual functions in both test batteries. The higher-level visual function deficits subtype (extensive n  =  18, limited n  =  24) showed near normal visual acuity combined with significant visual perceptual deficits in both test batteries; accompanied by visual pathways defects and abnormal eye movement behavior in the extensive test battery. The higher- and lower- level visual function deficits subtype (extensive n  =  4, limited n  =  12) showed both higher and lower-level visual function deficits in both test batteries, but application of the extensive test battery revealed additional visual pathways defects and abnormal eye movement behavior. The lower-level visual function deficits CVI subtype (extensive n  =  10) was a new subtype identified by the extensive test battery. This subtype showed lower-level visual function deficits together with abnormal eye movement measures. Conclusion: This data-driven study has provided meaningful CVI subtype classifications based on the outcomes of various key functional and structural measures in CVI diagnosis. Comparison of the extensive test battery to the limited test battery revealed the added value of an extensive test battery in classifying CVI. The outcomes of this study, therefore, have provided a new direction in the area of CVI classification. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Introduction: One important first-line drug for treating Tuberculosis (TB) is Ethambutol (EMB), which carries a builtin risk of causing optic neuropathy, potentially resulting in permanent visual impairment. The subjective tests currently used in the diagnostic process, such as visual acuity and visual field assessments, may overlook early changes in visual function. The purpose of the present study is to investigate how well Visual Evoked Potentials (VEP) work as an evaluation tool for identifying optic neuropathy. Aim: To assess the utility of VEP in detecting subtle changes in visual function due to EMB-induced optic neuropathy. Materials and Methods: The cross-sectional study conducted at the Department of Physiology, B.J. Medical College, Ahmedabad, Gujarat, India, over approximately five months (August 2023 to December 2023) involved 62 eyes, with 30 eyes from TB patients undergoing EMB treatment and the rest serving as a control group. VEP recordings were made using a Personal Computers (PC)-based, 2-channel Recorders & Medicare Systems Pvt Ltd Nerve Conduction Velocity (NCV) Electromyography (EMG) Mark II machine with standard silversilver chloride disc electrodes. VEP recordings were conducted regardless of the treatment period and the analysis focused on the amplitude and latency of the P100 wave, a critical component of VEP. Statistical analysis was carried out using Student's unpaired t-test to compare the results between both groups, with p-values calculated. Results: The mean age of case was 40±17.4 years and controls was 31.12±12.54 years. The study revealed changes in VEP parameters, specifically showing a progressive reduction in P100 amplitude (p-value=0.0001). Conclusion: The present research highlights the potential of VEP as a sensitive and reliable method for assessing EMBinduced optic neuropathy. Incorporating VEP into routine ophthalmologic assessments for patients receiving EMB could improve TB management while reducing the risk of vision loss. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Automated generation of geometric models from point cloud data holds significant importance in the field of computer vision and has expansive applications, such as shape modeling and object recognition. However, prevalent methods exhibit accuracy issues. In this study, we introduce a novel hierarchical neural network that utilizes recursive PointConv operations on nested subdivisions of point sets. This network effectively extracts features, segments point clouds, and accurately identifies and computes parameters of regular geometric primitives with notable resilience to noise. On fine-grained primitive detection, our approach outperforms Supervised Primitive Fitting Network (SPFN) by 18.5% and Cascaded Primitive Fitting Network (CPFN) by 11.2%. Additionally, our approach consistently maintains low absolute errors in parameter prediction across varying noise levels in the point cloud data. Our experiments validate the robustness of our proposed method and establish its superiority relative to other methodologies in the extant literature. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In the field of collaborative visual simultaneous localization and mapping (CVSLAM), efficient data communication poses a significant challenge, particularly in environments with limited bandwidth. To address this issue, we introduce a method aimed at reducing communication consumption. Our approach starts with a strategic culling of map points, aiming at maximizing pose-visibility and expanding spatial diversity to effectively eliminate redundant data in CVSLAM. We achieve this by formulating the problem of maximizing pose-visibility and spatial diversity as a minimum-cost maximum-flow graph optimization problem. Subsequently, we apply finite state entropy encoding for the compression of visual information, further alleviating bandwidth constraints. To verify the proposed method, we implement it within a centralized collaborative monocular simultaneous localization and mapping (SLAM) system. Our approach has been tested on publicly available datasets and in real-world scene. The results show a prominent reduction in bandwidth usage by 49% while maintaining mapping accuracy and without introducing additional latency, confirming its effectiveness in a multi-agent system setting. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

(1) Background: Previous research has investigated the relationship between cognitive impairment, optical coherence tomography (OCT), visual fields (VF), and VF reliability in smaller patient samples using various cognitive assessment tools. This study analyzed the relationship between cognitive function scores using the Mini-Cog test and inner macular thickness (IMT) and VF sensitivity in glaucoma patients. (2) Methods: A retrospective analysis was conducted on 984 patients with 1897 eyes. Assessments included age, sex, intraocular pressure (IOP), and Mini-Cog test scores. Abnormal Mini-Cog scores were observed in 89 patients (9%). Using a mixed-effects model adjusted for background factors, the association between Mini-Cog scores and IMT, parafoveal (PF)-IMT, mean deviation (MD), pattern standard deviation, fixation losses (FL), false negatives (FN), and false positives (FP) was analyzed. (3) Results: Abnormal Mini-Cog scores (≤2) were associated with thinning of the IMT and PF-IMT, worse MDs, and higher FN and FP rates but not with PSD or FL. (4) Conclusions: Glaucoma patients with low cognitive function scores exhibited more advanced glaucoma-related changes in VF testing and morphological tests. Further longitudinal studies are needed to explore the relationship between glaucoma and cognitive impairment. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Undoubtedly, overlooking a stroke can result in severe disability or even death. However, identifying stroke patients in the prehospital setting poses a significant challenge. While the Face–Arm–Speech–Time (FAST) score is widely used, its effectiveness has been questioned because of its focus on symptoms primarily associated with anterior circulation strokes. In response to this limitation, we developed the innovative FAST4D score and conducted a comparative analysis of stroke detection rates between the novel FAST4D score and the FAST score. Methods: This prospective, multicenter proof-of-concept study aimed to assess stroke detection rates using both the FAST score and the new FAST4D score, which incorporates additional items such as the acute onset of diplopic images, deficit in the field of vision, dizziness/vertigo, and dysmetria/ataxia. Following their presentation to emergency medical services, all patients suspected of having a stroke and those diagnosed with a stroke upon discharge were included in this study. The diagnostic performance of the novel FAST4D score was evaluated and compared with that of the FAST score. Results: Between May 2019 and June 2021, a total of 1469 patients (749 female) were enrolled, with 1035 patients discharged with the diagnosis of stroke. Notably, 259 patients were identified solely through the FAST4D score. This resulted in a significantly higher rate of correctly identified as having had a stroke (stroke detection rate, sensitivity) with the new FAST4D score (93%) compared with the established FAST score (78%) (p < 0.001). This resulted in a reduction in false negative diagnoses by 65%. Conclusions: The novel FAST4D score demonstrated a 15-percentage increase in the stroke detection rate. This heightened detection rate holds the potential for more accurate patient allocation to stroke units, consequently reducing the time to revascularization. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: The surgical treatment of lymphedema has seen advancements in recent years, with supramicrosurgical lymphaticovenular anastomosis (sLVA) gaining global acceptance. The integration of 3D exoscopes into microsurgery offers potential ergonomic and educational benefits. However, systematic evaluation of their efficacy in sLVA remains limited. Methods: A retrospective cross-sectional study was conducted comparing the use of 3D exoscopes to conventional operating microscopes (OM) in sLVA surgeries. Patient data from January 2019 to January 2024 were reviewed, with demographic, clinical, and surgical outcome variables analyzed. Ergonomic assessments were performed using Rapid Entire Body Assessment (REBA) and Rapid Upper Limb Assessment (RULA), while surgeon satisfaction was evaluated through the Microsurgical Intraoperative Satisfaction and Comfort questionnaire (MISCq). Results: An analysis of 25 patients (OM group: n = 14; exoscope group: n = 11) revealed no significant differences in age, sex, etiology, or surgical site between the two groups. Surgical time, number of incisions, and number of anastomoses showed nonsignificant variations between the OM and exoscope groups. Ergonomic assessments indicated potential benefits with exoscope use, particularly for the assistant surgeon. Survey results demonstrated comparable levels of surgeon satisfaction with both instruments, with no significant differences in image quality, contrast, illumination, magnification, visual field, ergonomic maintenance, or stereoscopic orientation. Conclusions: The study suggests that 3D exoscopes are a valuable tool for sLVA supermicrosurgery, offering comparable outcomes to traditional microscopes with potential ergonomic advantages. Their integration into microsurgical practice may contribute to improved surgical comfort and team performance. Further research is warranted to confirm these findings and explore additional factors such as cost-effectiveness and long-term patient outcomes. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

There has been substantial research on multi-medium visual measurement in fields such as underwater three-dimensional reconstruction and underwater structure monitoring. Addressing the issue where traditional air-based visual-measurement models fail due to refraction when light passes through different media, numerous studies have established refraction-imaging models based on the actual geometry of light refraction to compensate for the effects of refraction on cross-media imaging. However, the calibration of refraction parameters inevitably contains errors, leading to deviations in these parameters. To analyze the impact of refraction-parameter deviations on measurements in underwater structure visual navigation, this paper develops a dual-media stereo-vision measurement simulation model and conducts comprehensive simulation experiments. The results indicate that to achieve high-precision underwater-measurement outcomes, the calibration method for refraction parameters, the distribution of the targets in the field of view, and the distance of the target from the camera must all be meticulously designed. These findings provide guidance for the construction of underwater stereo-vision measurement systems, the calibration of refraction parameters, underwater experiments, and practical applications. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Spaceflight-Associated Neuro-Ocular Syndrome (SANS) is a complex pathology threatening the health of astronauts, with incompletely understood causes and no current specific functional diagnostic or screening test. We investigated the use of the differential performance of the visual system (central vs. perimacular visual function) as a candidate marker of SANS-related pathology in a ground-based microgravity analogue. Methods: We used a simple reaction time (SRT) task to visual stimuli, presented in the central and perimacular field of view, as a measure of the overall performance of the visual function, during acute settings (first 10 min) of vertical, bed rest (BR), −6°, and −15° head-down tilt (HDT) presentations in healthy participants (n = 8). We built dose–response models linking the gravitational component to SRT distribution parameters in the central vs. perimacular areas. Results: Acute exposure to microgravity induces detectable changes between SRT distributions in the perimacular vs. central retina (increased mean, standard deviation, and tau component of the ex-Gaussian function) in HDT compared with vertical presentation. Conclusions: Functional testing of the perimacular retina might be beneficial for the earlier detection of SANS-related ailments in addition to regular testing of the central vision. Future diagnostic tests should consider the investigation of the extra-macular areas, particularly towards the optic disc. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Jansen metaphyseal chondrodysplasia (JMC) is an ultra-rare disorder caused by germline heterozygous PTHR1 variants resulting in constitutive activation of parathyroid hormone type 1 receptor. A description of ocular manifestations of the disease is lacking. Six patients with JMC underwent a detailed ophthalmic evaluation, spectral-domain optical coherence tomography (OCT), visual field testing, and craniofacial CT scans. Five of 6 patients had good visual acuity. All patients had widely spaced eyes; 5/6 had downslanted palpebral fissures. One patient had proptosis, and another had bilateral ptosis. Two patients had incomplete closure of the eyelids (lagophthalmos), one had a history of progressive right facial nerve palsy with profuse epiphora, while the second had advanced optic nerve atrophy with corresponding retinal nerve fiber layer (RNFL) thinning on OCT and significant bilateral optic canal narrowing on CT scan. Additionally, this patient also had central visual field defects and abnormal color vision. A third patient had normal visual acuity, subtle temporal pallor of the optic nerve head, normal average RNFL, but decreased temporal RNFL and retinal ganglion cell layer analysis (GCA) on OCT. GCA was decreased in 4/6 patients indicating a subclinical optic nerve atrophic process. None of the patients had glaucoma or high myopia. These data represent the first comprehensive report of ophthalmic findings in JMC. Patients with JMC have significant eye findings associated with optic canal narrowing due to extensive skull base dysplastic bone overgrowth that appear to be more prevalent and pronounced with age. Progressive optic neuropathy from optic canal narrowing may be a feature of JMC, and OCT GCA can serve as a useful biomarker for progression in the setting of optic canal narrowing. We suggest that patients with JMC should undergo regular ophthalmic examination including color vision, OCT, visual field testing, orbital, and craniofacial imaging. Lay Summary: Jansen metaphyseal chondrodysplasia (JMC) is an ultra-rare disorder caused by overactivity of the parathyroid hormone type 1 receptor, a receptor that is important for regulating bone development. Some patients report eye problems, but these have not been well-described. We therefore performed extensive eye examinations in 6 individuals with JMC. One had progressive right-sided facial paralysis associated with eye-tearing and dryness. A second individual had decreased central vision. Using optical coherence tomography (OCT), a method which takes detailed pictures of the retina, we found thinning of the retina's nerve layers (RNFL). Computed tomography (CT) of the skull showed narrowing of the bony canal through which the optic nerve passes. A third individual had normal vision but RNFL thinning just on the sides. Analysis of ganglion cells, the nerve cells carrying signals from the retina to the brain, showed localized deterioration of the optic nerve; skull CT also revealed optic canal narrowing. These findings suggest that JMC is associated with progressive damage to the optic nerve. Thus, patients with JMC would benefit from regular eye exams including OCT and visual field testing, in addition to routine imaging. Graphical Abstract [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Deep learning-based object detection has made tremendous progress in the field of intelligent vision systems. However, one of its major complaints is the high demand for large amounts of experimental data. Few-shot object detection (FSOD) aims to identify novel objects with only a few training samples. Existing techniques don't fully explore the potential mapping relationships between support and query features due to the limitation of global matching contrast. In this work, we propose a multi-projection filtering network (MPF-Net) to exploit feature relevance and aggregate the information between multiple scales, ensuring an optimal global representation. Furthermore, we take the lead in proposing a feature contrast filtering paradigm for the classification and regression subtasks in order to fully utilize fine-grained features for contrastive match. The multi-visual contrast approach motivates our model to gracefully handle a variety of difficult detection challenges such as scale discrepancies, occlusions, and feature confusions. MPF-Net accurately perceives features at various scales and adaptively excavates category information. Extensive experiments on PASCAL VOC and MS COCO datasets have demonstrated that our detectors significantly improve upon baseline detectors, especially for extremely low-shot settings (average accuracy improvement is up to 3.5% in 1-shot scenarios and 2.5% in 2-shot scenarios). In general, we propose a novel strategy to construct the few-shot feature space and achieve remarkable results. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The traditional lane line detection algorithm relies on artificial design features, which has poor robustness and cannot cope with the complex urban street background. With the rise of deep learning technology, the algorithm model with convolutional neural network as the mainstream is widely used in the field of computer vision, which provides a new idea for lane line detection. In order to improve the disadvantages of traditional lane line detection methods that are vulnerable to environmental impact and poor robustness, a nonlinear convolution neural network algorithm for driverless lane line detection is proposed. Firstly, the pretreatment method of extracting the region of interest and enhancing the contrast of lane lines is used to reduce the unnecessary image background and enhance the feature details of the image. Existing deep learning-based lane line detection algorithms still have difficulties. First, accumulated wear and tear will cause lane line to fade and fade; roadside trees and buildings can interfere with the performance of lane line detection algorithm. In addition, compared with the pixels of the whole picture, the lane line pixels are too few, and the deep convolution neural network of layer convolution is easy to lead to the loss of details. In addition, when the traffic flow is large, the lane line is easily blocked, which makes it more difficult to detect the lane line. Then the model is built based on the lane line image features extracted by CNN, and the DBSCAN clustering algorithm is used to post-process the lane line segmentation model; Finally, the least square method is used to fit the quadratic curve of the pixel peak points of the lane line, and the fitting results are regressed to the original image. The experimental results show that the accuracy and recall of the lane line detection model verification set are 91.3% and 90.6%, respectively, indicating that the model has a good segmentation effect. It is proved that the lane line detection method based on CNN combined with post-processing can effectively reduce the defects of artificial experience, and has better robustness and accuracy than the traditional lane line detection method. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study uses deep learning techniques to improve target recognition and digital picture processing, combining efficiency and accuracy in the fields of computer vision and image processing. Different situations, heterogeneous circumstances in the environment, and a wide range of image properties present obstacles for the traditional approaches of combining images and target recognition. To address these issues, our research suggests a novel method that makes use of deep learning methods to identify relevant characteristics and trends from a variety of sources that provide diverse pictures. As part of the research process, a complex deep learning system that can recognize ordered representations of input photos is developed and trained. We will investigate whether faster RCNN are suitable for capturing temporal and spatial relationships in the image data. To maximize the model's performance, deep learning techniques will be used to make use of pre-trained networks on sizable datasets. Benchmark datasets will be used in the method's assessment, and it will be pitted with conventional image processing techniques. The accuracy and dependability of the algorithm's performance will be evaluated using quantitative metrics including precision, recall, and F1-score. Furthermore, qualitative evaluations will be conducted to determine the visual appeal and interpretive capacity of the created composite images. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The use of transfer learning (TL) techniques has become common practice in fields such as computer vision (CV) and natural language processing (NLP). Leveraging prior knowledge gained from data with different distributions, TL offers higher performance and reduced training time, but has yet to be fully utilized in applications of machine learning (ML) and deep learning (DL) techniques and applications related to wireless communications, a field loosely termed radio frequency machine learning (RFML). This work examines whether existing transferability metrics, used in other modalities, might be useful in the context of RFML. Results show that the two existing metrics tested, Log Expected Empirical Prediction (LEEP) and Logarithm of Maximum Evidence (LogME), correlate well with post-transfer accuracy and can therefore be used to select source models for radio frequency (RF) domain adaptation and to predict post-transfer accuracy. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Traditional scenic road visual landscape assessment methods struggle to quantify drivers' subjective visual perceptions. This study aims to develop a new method to decipher Scenic Road Visual Landscape Evaluation (SRVLE) of motorists' visual field, reconciling the longstanding subjectivity–objectivity dichotomy in landscape quality research. By adopting binocular visual simulation and image segmentation, this paper conceptualizes a novel "non-scale semantic differential approach" to quantify landscape qualities across the dimensions of naturalness–artificiality (NA), diversity–coherence (DC), and openness–deepness (OD), constructing a three-dimensional visual landscape quality evaluation system. Taking the Nujiang Beautiful Road in Yunnan as a case study, the results show the following: (1) The three indicators reveal the scenic road's distinctive visual landscape characteristics, marked by high naturalness, coherence, and relative openness. (2) SRVLE is found to vary between the two driving directions and different sections. (3) The three-dimensional evaluation cube intuitively displays the comprehensive characteristics of landscape quality, providing a basis for scenic road planning. This method offers a new approach to resolving the subjective–objective divide in SRVLE and can assist road administrations in enhancing policy planning, construction, and management, thereby promoting the high-quality development of scenic roads. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In the field of visual graphic design, complexity plays a crucial role in visual information processing, and it is assumed to be an absolute quantity based on the number of the presenting features and components. However, it remains unclear whether the visual order of the constituent elements in graphical symbol complexity affects cognitive processing, especially memory processing. Our research innovatively generated four groups of novel, meaningless graphical symbols (complex and ordered, complex and disordered, simple and ordered, and simple and disordered) and experimentally manipulated the level of complexity and order in these stimuli. Before the formal experiment, a five-point scale was used to further rule out differences between objective and subjective definitions of these graphical symbols on ratings of complexity, order, concreteness, and familiarity. Then, we used a cue-recall task to compare subjects' memory performance of those four graphical symbol groups. The analytical results showed a significant interaction between visual order and graphical symbol complexity, with the complexity effect appearing only when the stimuli were in disordered condition and disappearing once the stimuli were ordered. In addition, this study conducted a practical application validation to confirm that increasing the level of visual order is an effective way to improve user experience while maintaining the same level of complexity. The findings can serve as a reference for graphical symbol design, graphic design, and visual communication design. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]