Search

Evidence suggests that trait anxiety relates to cognitive processing and behavior. However, the relationships between trait anxiety and sensory processing, goal‐directed performance and sensorimotor function are unclear, particularly in a multimodal context. This study used electroencephalography to evaluate whether trait anxiety influenced visual and tactile event‐related potentials (ERPs), as well as behavioral distractor cost, in a bimodal sensorimotor task. Twenty‐nine healthy young adults completed the State–Trait Anxiety Inventory. Participants were directed to focus on either tactile or visual stimuli while disregarding the other modality, responding to target stimulus amplitude with a proportional grip. Previous research suggests that somatosensory N70 and visual P2 ERPs serve as markers of attentional relevance, with attention also impacting the visual P3 ERP. It was hypothesized that trait anxiety would modulate the ERPs susceptible to attentional modulation (tactile N70, visual P2 and P3) and not affect behavioral performance. Trait anxiety showed a large, significant interaction with attention for visual P3 latency in response to unimodal visual stimuli, with a positive relationship between P3 latencies and trait anxiety when attending toward the stimulus and negative when attending away. A large, positive main effect of trait anxiety on visual N1 amplitude for bimodal stimuli was also detected. As predicted, trait anxiety related to ERPs but not behavioral distractor cost. These findings suggest that trait anxiety modulates visual but not somatosensory processing correlates based on attention. The absence of overt behavioral performance effects suggests compensatory mechanisms may offset underlying differences in sensory processing. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Introduction: The Expanded Disability Status Scale (EDSS) is usually calculated through a neurological examination with self-reported performance. This may lead to incorrect assessment of Functional System scores (FSs). Aim of our study was to estimate the difference between EDSS obtained during routine visits, or after specific tests. Methods: We enrolled 670 MS patients that underwent a regular neurology consultation, and visual evaluation using optotype tables, ambulation evaluation with a rodometer, and cognitive assessment with the Brief International Cognitive assessment for MS (BICAMS). We calculated a new integrated EDSS (iEDSS) using the refined values of the FS and compared it to the standard EDSS. Results: Visual, cerebral and ambulation FSs were significantly higher compared with the self-reported counterpart [+ 1.169 (95%CI 1.077, 1.262; p < 0.001), + 0.727 (95%CI 0.653, 0.801; p < 0.001) and + 0.822 (95%CI 0.705, 0.939; p < 0.001), respectively]. Mean iEDSS was higher than EDSS (+ 0.642; p < 0.001). Visual acuity tests worsened the EDSS in 31% of cases, cognitive tests in 10%, ambulation measurement in 35%, all three measurements in 59% of cases. Conclusions: Objective measurement of FSs results in a more accurate EDSS score in almost two-thirds of cases. This could lead to a more thorough evaluation of patients in the transition or progressive phase. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The growing presence of everyday visual materials, such as social media images and videos, raises new questions around the ways in which identities are made visible in contemporary contexts. 'Visually informed' critical discursive psychology can be productively leveraged to analyze the diverse intersections of visuality and gender in daily life. To guide future inquiries in this domain, a brief overview of discourse analysis, discursive psychology, and (visually informed) critical discursive psychology is provided. Applying this methodology to the study of gender, an explicit conceptualization of visual gender displays is detailed alongside complementary analytic objectives suitable for future inquiries. Lastly, three categories of visual features are outlined that could be attended to during close examinations of visual data, using extracts from a previous study to illustrate key points. To that end, scholars can visually investigate 'micro' level gender displays as they relate to 'macro' systems of inequality- grounded in a critical discursive psychology framework. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The integration of artificial intelligence (AI) in audiovisual creation is redefining the boundaries between human creativity and technological potential. Its use is widespread in social networks. This research will review the technical background and aims to analyse the application of AI in the different stages of visual production. It will study whether communication professionals can take advantage of their knowledge to get more out of these tools. The conclusions determine that AI is involved in the emergence of new forms of artistic and communicative expression. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Some research has shown that older adults benefit more from multisensory information than do young adults. However, more recent evidence has shown that the multisensory age benefit varies considerably across tasks. In the current study, older (65 – 80) and young (18 – 30) adults (N = 191) completed a speeded perceptual discrimination task either online or face-to-face to assess task response speed. We examined whether presenting stimuli in multiple sensory modalities (audio-visual) instead of one (audio-only or visual-only) benefits older adults more than young adults. Across all three experiments, a consistent speeding of response was found in the multisensory condition compared to the unisensory conditions for both young and older adults. Furthermore, race model analysis showed a significant multisensory benefit across a broad temporal interval. Critically, there were no significant differences between young and older adults. Taken together, these findings provide strong evidence in favour of a multisensory benefit that does not differ across age groups, contrasting with prior research. • Multisensory information is responded to faster than unisensory information. • Both young and older adults benefit similarly from multisensory information. • An age-specific multisensory benefit was not replicated from prior research. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Introduction: Porcine Parvovirus (PPV) is a significant pathogen in the pig industry, with eight genotypes, including PPV7, identified since its emergence in 2016. Co-infections with viruses such as Porcine Circovirus 2 (PCV2) and Porcine Reproductive and Respiratory Syndrome Virus (PRRSV) pose serious risks to swine health. Thus, there is an urgent need for rapid, sensitive, and specific detection methods suitable for use in field settings or laboratories with limited resources. Methods: We developed a CRISPR/Cas12a-based assay combined with recombinase polymerase amplification (RPA) for the rapid detection of PPV7. Specific RPA primers and five CRISPR RNAs (crRNAs) were designed to target a highly conserved region within the NS1 gene of PPV7. Optimization of crRNA and single-stranded DNA (ssDNA) concentrations was performed to enhance the assay's performance. Results: CrRNA optimization identified crRNA-05 as the optimal candidate for Cas12a-based detection of PPV7, as all synthesized crRNAs demonstrated similar performance. The optimal crRNA concentration was determined to be 200 nM, yielding consistent results across tested concentrations. For ssDNA optimization, the strongest fluorescence signal was achieved with 500 nM of the FAM-BHQ ssDNA receptor. The assay showed a minimal detection limit of 100copies/μl for PPV7, confirmed through fluorescence and lateral flow detection methods. Specificity testing indicated that only PPV7 DNA samples returned positive results, confirming the assay's accuracy. In tests of 50 lung tissue samples from diseased pigs, the RPA-Cas12a assay identified 29 positive samples (58%), surpassing the 22 positive samples (44%) detected by conventional PCR. This highlights the RPA-Cas12a method's enhanced detection capability and its potential utility in clinical surveillance and management of PPV7 in swine populations. Discussion: The RPA-Cas12a assay effectively detects PPV7 in clinical samples, enhancing disease surveillance and control in pigs. Its adaptability to resourcelimited settings significantly improves PPV7 management and prevention strategies, thereby supporting the overall health and development of the pig industry. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Leptin is a hormone produced by the small intestines and adipose tissue that promotes feelings of satiety. Leptin receptors (LepRs) are highly expressed in the hypothalamus, enabling central neural control of hunger. Interestingly, LepRs are also expressed in several other regions of the body and brain, notably in the cerebral cortex and hippocampus. These brain regions mediate higher-order sensory, motor, cognitive, and memory functions, which can be profoundly altered during periods of hunger and satiety. However, LepR expression in these regions has not been fully characterized on a cell-type-specific basis, which is necessary to begin assessing their potential functional impact. Consequently, we examined LepR expression on neurons and glia in the forebrain using a LepR-Cre transgenic mouse model. LepR-positive cells were identified using a 'floxed' viral cell-filling approach and co-labeling immunohistochemically for cell-type-specific markers, i.e., NeuN, VGlut2, GAD67, parvalbumin, somatostatin, 5-HT3R, WFA, S100β, and GFAP. In the cortex, LepR-positive cells were localized to lower layers (primarily layer 6) and exhibited non-pyramidal cellular morphologies. The majority of cortical LepR-positive cells were neurons, while the remainder were identified primarily as astrocytes or other glial cells. The majority of cortical LepR-positive neurons co-expressed parvalbumin, while none expressed somatostatin or 5-HT3R. In contrast, all hippocampal LepR-positive cells were neuronal, with none co-expressing GFAP. These data suggest that leptin can potentially influence neural processing in forebrain regions associated with sensation and limbic-related functions. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The subthalamic nucleus (STN) of the basal ganglia is key to the inhibitory control of movement. Consequently, it is a primary target for the neurosurgical treatment of movement disorders like Parkinson's disease, where modulating the STN via deep brain stimulation (DBS) can release excess inhibition of thalamocortical motor circuits. However, the STN is also anatomically connected to other thalamocortical circuits, including those underlying cognitive processes like attention. Notably, STN-DBS can also affect these processes. This suggests that the STN may also contribute to the inhibition of non-motor activity and that STN-DBS may cause changes to this inhibition. Here we tested this hypothesis in humans. We used a novel, wireless outpatient method to record intracranial local field potentials (LFP) from STN DBS implants during a visual attention task (Experiment 1, n = 12). These outpatient measurements allowed the simultaneous recording of high-density EEG, which we used to derive the steady state visual evoked potential (SSVEP), a well established neural index of visual attentional engagement. By relating STN activity to this neural marker of attention (instead of overt behaviour), we avoided possible confounds resulting from STN's motor role. We aimed to test whether the STN contributes to the momentary inhibition of the SSVEP caused by unexpected, distracting sounds. Furthermore, we causally tested this association in a second experiment, where we modulated STN via DBS across two sessions of the task, spaced at least 1 week apart (n = 21, no sample overlap with Experiment 1). The LFP recordings in Experiment 1 showed that reductions of the SSVEP after distracting sounds were preceded by sound-related γ-frequency (>60 Hz) activity in the STN. Trial-to-trial modelling further showed that this STN activity statistically mediated the sounds' suppressive effect on the SSVEP. In Experiment 2, modulating STN activity via DBS significantly reduced these sound-related SSVEP reductions. This provides causal evidence for the role of the STN in the surprise-related inhibition of attention. These findings suggest that the human STN contributes to the inhibition of attention, a non-motor process. This supports a domain-general view of the inhibitory role of the STN. Furthermore, these findings also suggest a potential mechanism underlying some of the known cognitive side effects of STN-DBS treatment, especially on attentional processes. Finally, our newly established outpatient LFP recording technique facilitates the testing of the role of subcortical nuclei in complex cognitive tasks, alongside recordings from the rest of the brain, and in much shorter time than peri-surgical recordings. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

With their increasing popularity, there is a need for more research clarifying the potential strengths and weaknesses of the comic format for education. The panelled comic format may be particularly effective for educating adults on the scientific aspects of processes (sequences of events, occurring over time, in a series of discrete steps). We tested change in performance in adults (n = 879) in correctly ordering the stages in four processes before and after being exposed to educational material about these processes. The material was presented in a random selection of one of seven experimentally manipulated formats based on characteristics of comic books. Overall, participant performance improved after seeing the educational material. There were significant differences in learning between the processes, suggesting that the benefits, or detriments, of the comic format may be subject-specific. Performance was significantly better when images were subdivided into panels, and worse when an explanatory agent (character) was included, though these differences in performance did not survive adjustment for multiple comparisons. This study presents some evidence that the panelled nature of the comic format supports learning about scientific processes in adults. Given results differed notably between the specific topics to be learned, there is substantial scope for further investigation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study is concerned with the learning style of primary learners in San Manuel, District, Pangasinan Division II for SY 2023 – 2024. The study surveyed learning styles of primary learners. Primary learners preferred visual learning styles, with a smaller percentage preferring logical learning. The study found no significant difference in learning styles on academic performance across various variables. A moderate positive correlation was found between age and learning styles, but weak negative correlations were found between sex, civil status, and educational attainment. Understanding and catering to learning styles might be more crucial for students in certain divisions and national backgrounds. Visual learners can significantly improve their academic performance by incorporating visual elements into lessons. Teachers can help them grasp complex concepts, improve memory retention, and increase engagement with the material. Recognizing and accommodating the needs of visual learners is crucial for creating effective and engaging learning environments. This report emphasizes the importance of catering to diverse learning styles to promote a more inclusive and effective learning environment for all primary learners. It is also recommended that support teachers' to professional development through workshops, seminars, and conferences, and offer scholarships, grants, or financial assistance for advanced degrees or specialized training. Incorporate visual aids and techniques like mind-mapping in education, especially for subjects where visual learning is effective. Focus on diverse teaching methods to create a more engaging and productive learning environment for all students. The Visual (Spatial) Learning Style is recommended for public school teachers to improve academic performance. Further research may explore the impact of learners' learning styles on their academic performance. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Recent studies have shown that during the typical resting‐state, echo planar imaging (EPI) time series obtained from the eye orbit area correlate with brain regions associated with oculomotor control and lower‐level visual cortex. Here, we asked whether congenitally blind (CB) shows similar patterns, suggesting a hard‐wired constraint on connectivity. We find that orbital EPI signals in CB do correlate with activity in the motor cortex, but less so with activity in the visual cortex. However, the temporal patterns of this eye movement‐related signal differed strongly between CB and sighted controls. Furthermore, in CB, a few participants showed uncoordinated orbital EPI signals between the two eyes, each correlated with activity in different brain networks. Our findings suggest a retained circuitry between motor cortex and eye movements in blind, but also a moderate reorganization due to the absence of visual input, and the inability of CB to control their eye movements or sense their positions. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Prior research on the relationship between the taste, aroma and drinking utensils of beverages tends to focus on topics such as alcohol, sparkling beverages, juice, coffee, and hot chocolate. There is limited research focused on the interdependence between the perception of teacups and the tea taste. The literature has not yet found any research covering the impact of visual shape and the tactile sensation of teacups on the perception of tea flavor. Therefore, this study proposed six hypotheses related to the teacup shape and texture, teacup preference and taste and smell of tea. This study involved experimental design and questionnaire data collection, using a convenience sampling method to recruit 102 participants voluntarily. The research results are: (1) Age and gender have an impact on the taste and aroma perception of tea; (2) The width, height, rim thickness and smoothness of the teacup surface do have an impact on the perception of taste and fragrance of tea. (3) The preference of teacup played an intermediary effect between tea taste and the shape and texture of teacup. The implications of these findings on the perception of tea flavor are discussed. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background & Methods: The aim of the study is to Compare Visual Outcomes and Complications of Sutured Versus Sutureless Glueless Scleral Fixated Intraocular Lens in Management of Aphakia. Patient with coexisting ocular morbidities like Glaucoma, Diabetic retinopathy, Cystoid macular edema, Retinal Detachment, Optic Atrophy, Macular hole and patients not ready for follow up were excluded. Results: The comparison of the two surgical techniques shows that the sutureless SFIOL method generally had fewer complications, particularly in the early postoperative period. However, some complications like IOL dislocation were equally observed in both methods. Overall, the sutureless technique appears to offer a safer profile with a higher percentage of patients experiencing no complications at all. Conclusion: This study demonstrates that sutureless glueless SF-IOL offers several advantages over traditional sutured methods, including reduced operative time, fewer suturerelated complications, and faster visual recovery. Both techniques significantly improve visual acuity, with sutureless methods showing faster and potentially better outcomes. These findings provide valuable insights for ophthalmic surgeons in selecting the most effective treatment for aphakic patients. Further research and refinement of these techniques will continue to enhance patient outcomes and advance the field of ophthalmic surgery. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Reacting and responding to an external stimulus is an important component of human performance, and they inform us about a participant's neurophysiological capabilities. Our purpose in this study was to determine whether reaction times (REACT), response times (RT), and countermovement jump (CMJ) performance differ when responding to an auditory (AUD) versus visual (VIS) stimulus. Participants were 17 college-aged volunteers (6 females and 11 males; M age = 23.0, SD = 3.4 years; M height = 174.57, SD = 10.37 cm; M body mass = 73.37, SD = 13.48 kg). Participants performed CMJs on force plates immediately upon receiving an AUD or a VIS stimulus. The AUD stimulus was a beep noise, while the VIS stimulus was a light on a screen in front of the participants. We determined REACT for the tibialis anterior (TA), medial gastrocnemius (GM), vastus lateralis (VL), and biceps femoris (BF) muscles to be the amount of time between stimulus onset and the initiation of the muscle's electromyographic (EMG) signal. We determined RT to be the amount of time between stimulus onset and the beginning of the participant's force production. We assessed CMJ performance via ground reaction forces during the unweighting, braking, and propulsive phases of the jump. We quantified EMG amplitude and frequency during each CMJ phase. We found RT to be faster to the AUD versus the VIS stimulus (p =.007). VL and BF muscles had faster REACT than TA and GM muscles (p ≤.007). The AUD stimulus was associated with faster CMJ unweighting phase metrics (p ≤.005). Thus, individuals may react and respond faster to an AUD versus VIS stimulus, with limited improvements in their subsequent physical performance. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: During neurogenesis, growing axons must navigate through the complex extracellular environment and make correct synaptic connections for the proper functioning of neural circuits. The mechanisms underlying the formation of functional neural networks are still only partially understood. Results: Here we analyzed the role of a novel gene si:ch73‐364h19.1/drish in the neural and vascular development of zebrafish embryos. We show that drish mRNA is expressed broadly and dynamically in multiple cell types including neural, glial, retinal progenitor and vascular endothelial cells throughout the early stages of embryonic development. To study Drish function during embryogenesis, we generated drish genetic mutant using CRISPR/Cas9 genome editing. drish loss‐of‐function mutant larvae displayed defects in early retinal ganglion cell, optic nerve and the retinal inner nuclear layer formation, as well as ectopic motor axon branching. In addition, drish mutant adults exhibited deficient retinal outer nuclear layer and showed defective light response and locomotory behavior. However, vascular patterning and blood circulation were not significantly affected. Conclusions: Together, these data demonstrate important roles of zebrafish drish in the retinal ganglion cell, optic nerve and interneuron development and in spinal motor axon branching. Key Findings: si:ch73‐364h19.1 / drish gene encodes a putative transmembrane protein, which is expressed in neural, glial and vascular endothelial cells in zebrafish embryos.Drish zebrafish mutants show defects in retinal ganglion cell differentiation.Drish mutants exhibit defective branching of motor axons.Drish mutant larvae and adults display reduced swimming activity, a defective light response and deficient prey capture. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This research determines the student's learning strategies based on their learning styles. This research applied qualitative study. The subject of this research is the students of English literature class A in Universitas Negeri Makassar, who were selected through a purposive sampling technique. Thirty-five students were chosen as the subjects of this study. The data were obtained through questionnaires and interviews and then analyzed based on producers of data analysis identification, classification, and descriptive analysis. The result showed that i) there are some learning styles that students have, such as visual, auditory, and kinesthetic (VAK) learning styles; and ii) students' learning strategies based on their learning style where subjects engaged in several learning activities or methodologies. Two types of learning techniques were primarily considered: individual and group strategies. The individual strategies were marked by all of the activities the subjects had done, and the group strategies described the learning actions employed by the subjects to comprehend the knowledge or the lesson by engaging friends who could help them. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Insects, despite possessing relatively small brains, exhibit noteworthy adaptive behaviors, making them intriguing subjects for understanding learning mechanisms. This study explores the learning capabilities of dragonfly larvae (Anisoptera: Aeshnidae) in conditioning experiments, shedding light on the cognitive processes that underpin their remarkable abilities. As apex predators, dragonflies play a crucial role in ecosystems, necessitating a diverse range of learning behaviors for survival and reproductive success. We addressed whether dragonfly larvae can differentiate between different colored stimuli and associate color with prey. Our experimental design demonstrated that dragonfly larvae are able to recognize conditioning stimuli. The findings contribute valuable insights into the cognitive abilities of dragonflies, suggesting that these insects can learn and discriminate colors of stimuli. Overall, this research broadens our understanding of insect learning and cognition, contributing to the broader field of animal behavior and memory. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Yew Ern Au,1 Cheuk Ying Li,1 Nishaanth Dalavaye,1 Aarij Elahi,1 Rohan Vyas,2 Ravanth Baskaran,1 Stephen Mark Rutherford3 1School of Medicine, Cardiff University, Cardiff, UK; 2Bart’s and the London School of Medicine and Dentistry, Queen Mary University of London, London, UK; 3School of Biosciences, Cardiff University, Cardiff, UKCorrespondence: Ravanth Baskaran, Email ravanthb97@gmail.comBackground: The COVID-19 pandemic has resulted in medical students’ education being disrupted and a new direction of learning towards the online classroom, with students frequently learning to identify clinical signs via online conferencing platforms. Given this shift in student study techniques in the pandemic and post-pandemic era, we set out to analyse the confidence levels of students recognizing clinical signs in patients and the opinions and patterns of resources students would use to build up the knowledge and confidence for their future clinical practice.Methods: OSCEazy, a student-led medical education organisation, delivered an online teaching session and disseminated a questionnaire containing ten-point Likert scales, multiple-choice questions and free text options.Results: The majority (over 75%) of respondents reported using digital resources to learn physical examinations. Most respondents were somewhat confident with recognising clinical signs during physical examinations (Median 7, IQR 6– 8). Kruskal–Wallis H-test on students’ impression of the quality of current OSCE materials showed a statistically significant difference between cohorts (X2(2) = 14.209, p = 0.014). A large proportion of students (98.41%) agreed that an online resources bank would be beneficial for their learning. Wilcoxon rank test showed a statistically significant preference for learning physical examinations using clinical images rather than videos (p = 0.014). A 29% of respondents mentioned the use of physical textbooks as a resource, while online platforms such as OSCE revision websites, YouTube and Google Images had become the mainstream platforms.Conclusion: The findings reported here suggest that there needs to be a greater emphasis on providing online image-based resources to support medical students in learning clinical signs. A resource containing these clinical signs would prove to be of benefit for students to access high-quality self-directed learning to identify and verify clinical signs.Keywords: medical education, visual, multi-media, clinical, online, teaching

Coincidence anticipation (CA) refers to the ability to coordinate responses to the arrival of a moving object. This study investigates the neurobehavioral processes that underlie CA through the measurement of electroencephalography (EEG) recorded during a CA task on a 17-foot plastic rail with evenly spaced LED lights. Participants responded at the anticipated moment a sequence of successively lit LEDs coincided with a stationary target. Healthy young adult participants (Mage = 21) performed six blocks with movement at 20, 30, or 40 mph and the direction either inbound or outbound relative to the participant. Behavioral results demonstrated a main effect of speed and an interaction between speed and direction, with outbound motion producing early responses and inbound motion producing delayed responses that increased at greater speeds. EEG demonstrated characteristic P1, N2, and P3-like visual evoked potentials (VEPs). VEP amplitudes revealed a significant direction by channel interaction for the P1, indicative of more medial responses for inbound motion. Significant laterality differences were present in the N2, whereas the P3 component produced significant main effects and interactions of speed and direction. This novel combination of three-dimensional CA with EEG demonstrates systematic brain responses that are tuned for motion speed and sensitive to different egocentric motion patterns thereby shedding new light on the mechanism of human visual-motor control.

Understanding the neural underpinning of human gait and balance is one of the most pertinent challenges for 21st-century translational neuroscience due to the profound impact that falls and mobility disturbances have on our aging population. Posture and gait control does not happen automatically, as previously believed, but rather requires continuous involvement of central nervous mechanisms. To effectively exert control over the body, the brain must integrate multiple streams of sensory information, including visual, vestibular, and somatosensory signals. The mechanisms which underpin the integration of these multisensory signals are the principal topic of the present work. Existing multisensory integration theories focus on how failure of cognitive processes thought to be involved in multisensory integration leads to falls in older adults. Insufficient emphasis, however, has been placed on specific contributions of individual sensory modalities to multisensory integration processes and cross-modal interactions that occur between the sensory modalities in relation to gait and balance. In the present work, we review the contributions of somatosensory, visual, and vestibular modalities, along with their multisensory intersections to gait and balance in older adults and patients with Parkinson’s disease. We also review evidence of vestibular contributions to multisensory temporal binding windows, previously shown to be highly pertinent to fall risk in older adults. Lastly, we relate multisensory vestibular mechanisms to potential neural substrates, both at the level of neurobiology (concerning positron emission tomography imaging) and at the level of electrophysiology (concerning electroencephalography). We hope that this integrative review, drawing influence across multiple subdisciplines of neuroscience, paves the way for novel research directions and therapeutic neuromodulatory approaches, to improve the lives of older adults and patients with neurodegenerative diseases.

Purpose: To compare the accuracy of unaided visual inspection (UVI) to Software App measurement (SAM) of penile curvature (PC) during hypospadias surgery. Methods: Seven clinical pictures of PC (15°–60°) taken during hypospadias repair were shared with 300 members of the Society of Pediatric Urology (India). The respondents were asked to assess the angles by UVI and indicate their preferred correction method of that PC. For each picture, the angles of curvature estimated by UVI were compared with the objective angle measured using an app (SAM), which was considered an accurate estimation. Statistical analysis was done using software; P30°, the error in UVI estimation was >10°, with no correlation between the accuracy of UVI estimate and surgeon experience. A significant proportion of surgeons chose the incorrect option for PC correction, which was the lowest (69%) for PC 35.8°. Conclusions: Most surgeons preferred UVI to assess PC; UVI is an erroneous technique to measure PC angle, especially in the PC range 30°–60°, where the error was >10°. Most errors were an underestimation of the PC, irrespective of surgeon experience. There was a significant error in the choice of technique for PC correction for a PC of 35°. These results strongly support the objective assessment of PC using SAM during hypospadias repair.

Abstract Visual systems have evolved to discriminate between different wavelengths of light. The ability to perceive color, or specific light wavelengths, is important as color conveys crucial information about both biotic and abiotic features in the environment. Indeed, different wavelengths of light can drive distinct patterns of activity in the vertebrate brain, yet what remains incompletely understood is whether distinct wavelengths can invoke etiologically relevant behavioral changes. To address how specific wavelengths in the visible spectrum modulate behavioral performance, we use larval zebrafish and a stereotypic light-search behavior. Prior work has shown that the cessation of light triggers a transitional light-search behavior, which we use to interrogate wavelength-dependent behavioral modulation. Using 8 narrow spectrum light sources in the visible range, we demonstrate that all wavelengths induce motor parameters consistent with search behavior, yet the magnitude of search behavior is spectrum sensitive and the underlying motor parameters are modulated in distinct patterns across short, medium, and long wavelengths. However, our data also establishes that not all motor features of search are impacted by wavelength. To define how wavelength modulates search performance, we performed additional assays with alternative wavelengths, dual wavelengths, and variable intensity. Last, we also tested blind larvae to resolve which components of wavelength dependent behavioral changes potentially include signaling from non-retinal photoreception. These findings have important implications as organisms can be exposed to varying wavelengths in laboratory and natural settings and therefore impose unique behavioral outputs.

Program Kartu Prakerja merupakan inisiatif dari pemerintah untuk meningkatkan produktivitas dan kompetensi kerja serta kewirausahaan. Sejalan dengan tujuan tersebut Vokasee, yang merupakan salah satu mitra Kartu Prakerja, bertujuan untuk menyediakan konten edukasi dan informasi terkait Kartu Prakerja dalam membantu pengembangan diri dengan menggunakan media Instagram. Instagram banyak digunakan oleh kalangan masyarakat pada jangkauan usia yang luas untuk mengunggah atau mencari informasi dalam bentuk video atau foto. Dalam hal ini, penting untuk membuat konten edukasi yang menarik secara visual dan konsisten guna menciptakan identitas yang khas serta sebagai sarana edukasi yang menarik. Hal yang menjadi masalah adalah, Vokasee belum mempunyai guideline untuk desain konten Instagram, sehingga desain konten yang dibagikan tidak teratur. Perancangan guideline dilakukan melalui metode observasi dan dianalisis menggunakan model analisis interaktif Miles dan Huberman. Dengan dilakukan perancangan ini, Vokasee sekarang memiliki pedoman untuk media online yang diterapkan guna menciptakan konsistensi dalam desain konten. Penting untuk melakukan pengawasan dan penerapan pedoman desain secara rutin guna menjaga konsistensi desain.

Dimensions of unintentionality: Jan Mukařovský — Julia Kristeva — Georges didi-Huberman. --- This article focuses on the concepts of intentionality and unintentionality introduced into the semiotics of the Prague Structural School by Jan Mukařovský. These terms are considered in the context of two other conceptual pairs: 1) the semiotic (lesémiotique) and the symbolic (le symbolique) by Julia Kristeva; and 2) the visual (le visuel) and the visible (le visible) by Georges Didi-Huberman. These concepts, created on the basis of French humanities, can be treated as a development on and complement to Mukařovský’s aesthetic theory.

Over the past few decades, primarily by animal studies, correspondingly reinforced by epidemiological, clinical studies and controlled trials, researchers have identified that visual feedback regulates eye refractive developments, with visual image alterations being the most influential myopiagenic environmental factor. This article reviews studies using nonhuman primates to investigate visual risk factors for myopia development and evaluates and summarizes which visual factors contribute to the occurrence and progression of myopia. The possible underlying myopiagenic mechanisms and related myopia prevention/control strategies are also discussed.

Abstract Background Threat and individual differences in threat-processing bias perception of stimuli in the environment. Yet, their effect on perception of one’s own (body-based) self-motion in space is unknown. Here, we tested the effects of threat on self-motion perception using a multisensory motion simulator with concurrent threatening or neutral auditory stimuli. Results Strikingly, threat had opposite effects on vestibular and visual self-motion perception, leading to overestimation of vestibular, but underestimation of visual self-motions. Trait anxiety tended to be associated with an enhanced effect of threat on estimates of self-motion for both modalities. Conclusions Enhanced vestibular perception under threat might stem from shared neural substrates with emotional processing, whereas diminished visual self-motion perception may indicate that a threatening stimulus diverts attention away from optic flow integration. Thus, threat induces modality-specific biases in everyday experiences of self-motion.

Visual systems have evolved to discriminate between different wavelengths of light. The ability to perceive color, or specific light wavelengths, is important as color conveys crucial information about both biotic and abiotic features in the environment. Indeed, different wavelengths of light can drive distinct patterns of activity in the vertebrate brain, yet what remains incompletely understood is whether distinct wavelengths can invoke etiologically relevant behavioral changes. To address how specific wavelengths in the visible spectrum modulate behavioral performance, we use larval zebrafish and a stereotypic light-search behavior. Prior work has shown that the cessation of light triggers a transitional light-search behavior, which we use to interrogate wavelength-dependent behavioral modulation. Using 8 narrow spectrum light sources in the visible range, we demonstrate that all wavelengths induce motor parameters consistent with search behavior, yet the magnitude of search behavior is spectrum sensitive and the underlying motor parameters are modulated in distinct patterns across short, medium, and long wavelengths. However, our data also establishes that not all motor features of search are impacted by wavelength. To define how wavelength modulates search performance, we performed additional assays with alternative wavelengths, dual wavelengths, and variable intensity. Last, we also tested blind larvae to resolve which components of wavelength dependent behavioral changes potentially include signaling from non-retinal photoreception. These findings have important implications as organisms can be exposed to varying wavelengths in laboratory and natural settings and therefore impose unique behavioral outputs. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The semantic knowledge stored in our brains can be accessed from different stimulus modalities. For example, a picture of a cat and the word "cat" both engage similar conceptual representations. While existing research has found evidence for modality-independent representations, their content remains unknown. Modality-independent representations could be semantic, or they might also contain perceptual features. We developed a novel approach combining word/picture cross-condition decoding with neural network classifiers that learned latent modality-independent representations from MEG data (25 human participants, 15 females, 10 males). We then compared these representations to models representing semantic, sensory, and orthographic features. Results show that modality-independent representations correlate both with semantic and visual representations. There was no evidence that these results were due to picture-specific visual features or orthographic features automatically activated by the stimuli presented in the experiment. These findings support the notion that modality-independent concepts contain both perceptual and semantic representations. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

BACKGROUND: Since the physiological background of motion sickness is not entirely clear, it was aimed to examine the physiological differences in groups consisting of individuals susceptible and non-susceptible to motion sickness. METHODS: Sixty subjects [motion sickness (MS) group: 33 female, 3 male; 28.8 ± 8.1 years; control group: 19 female, 5 male; 24.5 ± 4.3 years] were included in the study. Near visual acuity test on the treadmill in the presence of visual stimulation, pattern visual-evoked potentials, oculomotor tests, and computerized dynamic posturography were applied. Receiver operating characteristic analysis was performed to determine the parameter that provides the excellent discrimination between the groups. RESULTS: The most effective parameter in differentiating the study groups was determined as dynamic visual acuity with 77.8% sensitivity and 95.8% specificity. Significant differences were found in the vestibular (mean ± standard deviation: 0.63 ± 0.17), visual (0.77 ± 0.18), and composite scores (73.11 ± 11.89) of the patients (P = .000) in posturographic evaluation. In the visual-evoked potential examination, a significant decrease was found in the amplitude values between the P100-N145 waves in the binocular (5.0 ± 2.8, P = .002), right eye (7.6 ± 3.2, P = .009) and left eye (7.9 ± 2.9, P = .016) in the symptomatic patients. In binocular oculomotor evaluation, directional asymmetric findings were obtained. CONCLUSION: It has been shown that the most effective test parameter that distinguishes the MS susceptible and non-susceptible individuals is the dynamic visual acuity value. Based on the results of neuro-physiological tests, it was suggested that a possible visual-vestibular integration disorder in individuals susceptible to motion sickness may affect visual and vestibular performance. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Merleau-Ponty, starting from perception, reaches the visual through the work of Cézanne. The article applies the phenomenologist's essay to demonstrate how unfounded Cézanne's doubt was about his creative potential and the general change in art caused by him. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The digitization of production systems has revolutionized industrial monitoring. Analyzing real-time bottom-up data enables the dynamic monitoring of industrial processes. Data are collected in various types, like video frames and time signals. This article focuses on leveraging images from a vision system to monitor the manufacturing process on a computer numerical control (CNC) lathe machine. We propose a method for designing and integrating these video modules on the edge of a production line. This approach detects the presence of raw parts, measures process parameters, assesses tool status, and checks roughness in real time using image processing techniques. The efficiency is evaluated by checking the deployment, the accuracy, the responsiveness, and the limitations. Finally, a perspective is offered to use the metadata off the edge in a more complex artificial-intelligence (AI) method for predictive maintenance. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The Cambridge Centre for Myelin Repair One (CCMR-One) trial showed that 6 months of bexarotene reduces visual evoked potential (VEP) latency in people with relapsing-remitting multiple sclerosis (MS). In a single-centre follow-up study of these participants, we re-examined full-field VEP and clinical assessments. Twenty participants (12 bexarotene and 8 placebo) were seen on average 27 months after their trial involvement. In an analysis of all eyes with recordable signal (24 bexarotene and 14 placebo), the adjusted bexarotene-placebo treatment difference in P100 latency was −7.79 (95% confidence interval (CI) = −14.76, −0.82) ms, p = 0.044. We conclude that there were durable improvements in VEP latency, suggesting long-term benefits from exposure to a remyelinating drug. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose: To compare the accuracy of unaided visual inspection (UVI) to Software App measurement (SAM) of penile curvature (PC) during hypospadias surgery. Methods: Seven clinical pictures of PC (15°-60°) taken during hypospadias repair were shared with 300 members of the Society of Pediatric Urology (India). The respondents were asked to assess the angles by UVI and indicate their preferred correction method of that PC. For each picture, the angles of curvature estimated by UVI were compared with the objective angle measured using an app (SAM), which was considered an accurate estimation. Statistical analysis was done using software; P<0.05 was considered as statistically significant. Results: Ninety-one of 101 (90%) respondents preferred UVI to measure PC during hypospadias surgery. For 6/7 pictures, <40% of participants estimated the angle correctly by UVI (P < 0.001), with the difference in estimation being 3.6°-14.9°. For pictures with PC >30°, the error in UVI estimation was >10°, with no correlation between the accuracy of UVI estimate and surgeon experience. A significant proportion of surgeons chose the incorrect option for PC correction, which was the lowest (69%) for PC 35.8°. Conclusions: Most surgeons preferred UVI to assess PC; UVI is an erroneous technique to measure PC angle, especially in the PC range 30°-60°, where the error was >10°. Most errors were an underestimation of the PC, irrespective of surgeon experience. There was a significant error in the choice of technique for PC correction for a PC of 35°. These results strongly support the objective assessment of PC using SAM during hypospadias repair. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The non-profit organization Scenic Virginia is dedicated to identifying and showcasing the state's scenic landscapes. Recently, the state incorporated a "scenic" element into its new Conserve Virginia land conservation strategy. Consequently, there is a need for a standardized assessment tool that both citizens and professionals can use to identify and evaluate the scenic value of publicly accessible viewsheds in Virginia. This paper outlines the rationale behind developing a scientifically robust protocol, which is based on an extensive literature review and photographs from Scenic Virginia's annual photo contest. The protocol serves as a scenic assessment tool designed to encourage local citizen participation in identifying significant scenic resources in Virginia. Local communities will utilize this new tool to help them identify and evaluate their scenic assets. The protocol was reviewed by a panel of experts, and its implementation is currently underway. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

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

The article presents a case study of an 82-year-old man who experienced alternating blurred vision in both eyes, initially attributed to corneal deposits but later diagnosed with non-arteritic anterior ischemic optic neuropathy (NA-AION). It states that the case underscores the variability of giant cell arteritis (GCA) presentations and the critical role of ultrasound in confirming diagnoses without typical symptoms.

Mismatch negativity (MMN) is an event‐related potential component automatically elicited by events that violate predictions based on prior events. To elicit this component, researchers use stimulus repetition to induce predictions, and the MMN is obtained by subtracting the brain response to rare or unpredicted stimuli from that of frequent stimuli. Under the Predictive Processing framework, one increasingly popular interpretation of the mismatch response postulates that MMN represents a prediction error. In this context, the reduced MMN amplitude to auditory stimuli has been considered a potential biomarker of Schizophrenia, representing a reduced prediction error and the inability to update the mental model of the world based on the sensory signals. It is unclear, however, whether this amplitude reduction is specific for auditory events or if the visual MMN reveals a similar pattern in schizophrenia spectrum disorder. This review and meta‐analysis aimed to summarise the available literature on the vMMN in schizophrenia. A systematic literature search resulted in 10 eligible studies that resulted in a combined effect size of g = −.63, CI [−.86, −.41], reflecting lower vMMN amplitudes in patients. These results are in line with the findings in the auditory domain. This component offers certain advantages, such as less susceptibility to overlap with components generated by attentional demands. Future studies should use vMMN to explore abnormalities in the Predictive Processing framework in different stages and groups of the SSD and increase the knowledge in the search for biomarkers in schizophrenia. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In the teaching-learning processes of chemistry, in the first year of a university degree, difficulties can be observed that are associated with the complexity of chemical language and the different levels of representation necessary for its approach. Therefore, these processes should have a strong synergy between the way students learn and the way teachers teach. The present study investigated two aspects of the teaching-learning process of chemistry in health science courses at USAM. The first was to identify the predominant learning style of students according to Bandler and Grinder's Neuro-Linguistic Programming Model (VAK model: visual-auditory-kinesthetic), and the second was to identify, from the students' perspective, whether the teachers' strategies were related to any of the aforementioned learning styles. As a result, it was found that in this group of students, there are diverse learning styles, and it was also verified that chemistry teachers apply a variety of strategies, many of which are closely related to one of the learning styles described by the VAK method. Furthermore, through the contrast of the 2-test, it was confirmed that there is a direct relationship between the students' learning style and the pedagogical strategies that the teachers apply. In other words, in any process of pedagogical planning, in the subject of chemistry, it is recommended that the teacher has a clear idea of the various predominant learning styles in their group of students. This allows for the generation of a quality educational process that achieves meaningful learning. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The number of runners and the incidence of running-related injuries (RRIs) are on the rise. Real-time biofeedback gait retraining offers a promising approach to RRIs prevention. However, due to the diversity in study designs and reported outcomes, there remains uncertainty regarding the efficacy of different forms of feedback on running gait biomechanics. Three databases: MEDLINE, PUBMED, and SPORTDiscus were searched to identify relevant studies published up to March 2024, yielding 4646 articles for review. The quality of the included studies was assessed using the Downs and Black Quality checklist. Primary outcomes, including Peak Tibial Acceleration (PTA), Vertical Average Loading Rate (VALR), and Vertical Instantaneous Loading Rate (VILR), were analysed through meta-analysis. 24 studies met the inclusion criteria and were analysed in this review.17 used visual biofeedback (VB) while 14 chose auditory biofeedback (AB). The meta-analysis revealed a reduction in loading variables both immediately following the intervention and after extended training, with both visual and auditory feedback. Notably, the decrease in loading variables was more pronounced post-training and VB proved to be more effective than AB. Real-time biofeedback interventions are effective in lowering loading variables associated with RRIs. The impact is more substantial with sustained training, and VB outperforms AB in terms of effectiveness. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The objective of the green logistics distribution model is to minimise environmental pollution and energy usage by employing clean energy, optimising transport routes and enhancing transport efficiency. Nonetheless, current studies on green logistics distribution models and warehousing planning exhibit certain drawback, such as imprecise location accuracy and decreased distribution revenues. To overcome these challenges, this paper proposes a novel approach that combines inertial measurement unit (IMU) and binocular vision, leveraging multisource information positioning. Specifically, the method integrates data collection and preprocessing modules to gather crucial logistics distribution task information, encompassing IMU data, image data and vehicle data. The visual and inertial positioning module consists of two components: visual positioning based on the grey centre method and IMU positioning based on the integral essence. Finally, an adaptive Kalman filter is employed to merge the results of visual positioning and IMU positioning, thus producing the ultimate logistics vehicle positioning result. The proposed method effectively addresses existing challenges in the green logistics distribution model and warehouse planning. In particular, the experimental results demonstrate that the algorithm proposed in this study reduces the location error by 8%. Furthermore, logistics and distribution costs are reduced by 11 %, contributing to the promotion of sustainable and environmentally friendly logistics operations. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Threat and individual differences in threat-processing bias perception of stimuli in the environment. Yet, their effect on perception of one's own (body-based) self-motion in space is unknown. Here, we tested the effects of threat on self-motion perception using a multisensory motion simulator with concurrent threatening or neutral auditory stimuli. Results: Strikingly, threat had opposite effects on vestibular and visual self-motion perception, leading to overestimation of vestibular, but underestimation of visual self-motions. Trait anxiety tended to be associated with an enhanced effect of threat on estimates of self-motion for both modalities. Conclusions: Enhanced vestibular perception under threat might stem from shared neural substrates with emotional processing, whereas diminished visual self-motion perception may indicate that a threatening stimulus diverts attention away from optic flow integration. Thus, threat induces modality-specific biases in everyday experiences of self-motion. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background & Methods: The aim of the study is to evaluate benefit of visual aid in achieving proper positioning for neuraxial anaesthesia. The anaesthesiologist will prepare the spinal tray and drugs under aseptic conditions, prepare and drape the patient's back. A second person will start the timer and read out the standardized verbal instructions with or without visual aids, according to the allocation group of the patient. The patient will adopt the required position, and the anaesthesiologist will commence the procedure. Results: Group 1 required a second anesthesiologist to successfully complete the procedure in 25 patients out of 30 (90%) patient whereas 28 cases of group 2 (93.3%). The chi-square statistic is 1.4555. The p-value is .027643. The result is significant at p < .05. Conclusion: We concluded that the use of visual aids to assist positioning for neuraxial blockade reduced the time taken for the procedure by an average of 2 min and also reduced the number of skin punctures required. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

We present relative astrometric and photometric measurements of visual double stars made in 2016–2017, with PISCO2 installed at the 76‐cm refractor of Côte d'Azur Observatory in Nice (France). Our observing list contains orbital couples as well as double stars whose motion is still uncertain. Three different techniques were used for obtaining measurements: Lucky Imaging, Speckle Interferometry and the direct vector autocorrelation (DVA) method. From our observations of 1,510 multiple stars, we obtained 2,918 new measurements with angular separations in the range 0″.1–20″ and an average accuracy of 0.019$$ 0.019 $$. The mean error on the position angles is 1°.1. Most of the position angles were determined without the usual 180° ambiguity with the application of the DVA technique and/or by inspection of the Lucky images or the long integration files. We managed to routinely monitor faint systems (mV≈9−12$$ {m}_V\approx 9-12 $$) with large magnitude differences (up to ΔmV≈4.5$$ \Delta {m}_V\approx 4.5 $$). We have thus been able to measure six systems containing red dwarf stars that had been poorly monitored since their discovery, from which we estimated the stellar masses thanks to Gaia measurements. We also measured the magnitude difference of the two components of 593 double stars with a mean error of 0.1 mag. Thanks to good seeing images and with the use of high‐contrast numerical filters, we have also been able to obtain 46 measurements with an angular separation smaller than the diffraction limit of our instrumentation. Except for a few objects that have been discussed, our measurements are in good agreement with the ephemerides computed with published orbital elements, even for the double stars whose separation is smaller than the diffraction limit. We also report the measurements of 205 new double stars that we found in the files obtained during the observations. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The "Content-Identifying Methodology", or CIM, is an approach developed by environmental psychologists Rachel and Stephen Kaplan to understand the landscape characteristics that people find visually attractive. The Kaplans did this by surveying people's landscape preferences and then analyzing the preferences to develop sets of landscape scenes to which people reacted in a similar pattern. The underlying assumption is that a common stimulus or content exists in the photographs of a set responsible for the preference. However, identifying the common stimulus or content in each set or grouping of scenes and how it affects preference can still be challenging. Eye-tracking is a tool that can identify what the survey participants were looking at when indicating their preference for a landscape. This paper demonstrates how eye-tracking was used in two different landscape preference studies to identify the content important to people's preferences and provide insights into how the content affected preference. Eye-tracking can help identify a common stimulus, help determine if the stimulus is a physical or spatial characteristic of the landscape, and show how the stimulus varies in different landscape contexts. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Copyright of Revista Latinoamericana de Ciencias Sociales, Niñez y Juventud is the property of Centro de Estudiso Avanzados en Ninez y Juventud alaianza Cinde, Universidad de Manizales and its content may not be copied or emailed to multiple sites or posted to a listserv without the copyright holder's express written permission. However, users may print, download, or email articles for individual use. This abstract may be abridged. No warranty is given about the accuracy of the copy. Users should refer to the original published version of the material for the full abstract. (Copyright applies to all Abstracts.)

Burnout in the medical workforce is a growing global concern. Visual arts-based interventions can be a novel way to mitigate burnout and bolster resilience in medicine. Improving tolerance of ambiguity and uncertainty has been associated with decreased rates of burnout in clinicians. No known systematic review exists summarizing the evidence behind the use of visual arts-based interventions to mitigate burnout in clinicians. The authors conducted a systematic literature review of PubMed, EMBASE, and CINAHL in November 2022 using the terms: art, medicine, burnout, and uncertainty. The authors review the evidence for the effects of visual arts-based interventions on clinician burnout. The search identified 58 articles, of which 26 met study inclusion criteria and were assessed by 2 reviewers. These studies reported mixed methods assessments of changes in burnout, empathy, and stress. Overall, visual arts-based interventions promoted empathy, connectedness, and tolerance of ambiguity and had positive effects on burnout; however, some results were mixed. Visual arts-based interventions to mitigate burnout show promise, and additional research should focus on feasibility and longer-term outcomes.