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A quantitative model for simultaneous brightness induction.

The brightness that results from stimulating a particular test-region of the retina may be depressed or enhanced by simultaneous stimulation of other "inducing"-regions. The test-region brightness may be affected by contiguous inducing-regions (local contrast effects), and by non-contiguous inducing regions (long-range effects sometimes called "assimilation"). We describe a computational model for early vision that can predict the results of brightness-matching procedures commonly used to measure these phenomena. According to this model, brightness depression reflects primarily lateral inhibition that underlies local contrast effects; whereas brightness enhancement results from processes similar, in spirit, to those described in Helson's adaptation-level theory.

Contrast Sensitivity↗

The pattern electroretinogram: N95 amplitudes in normal subjects and optic neuritis patients.

Recent work has suggested that the N95 peak of the transient pattern electroretinogram (PERG) may be a more sensitive indicator of the late stages of retinal function prior to optic nerve activation than the P50 peak. In this report, we show that a new measure of N95 amplitude, based on digital filtering methods to identify a non-linear baseline before measurement, greatly reduced the amplitude variation in a population of 50 normal subjects when compared with two other plausible measures. We then used that new measure to follow the time course of N95 amplitudes in 12 optic neuritis patients. It was found that maintenance of a normal N95 amplitude at 6 months after onset of optic neuritis was always associated with excellent clinical recovery as measured by visual fields, acuity, presence or absence of an afferent pupil and optic atrophy, and contrast sensitivity (CS). Loss of N95 amplitude to below laboratory limits of normal was associated with abnormalities in these indicators of visual function. This study supports the idea that the N95 peak represents retinal ganglion cell function.

Adolescent↗

Severe dry-eye syndrome following external beam irradiation.

PURPOSE: There are limited data in the literature on the probability of dry-eye complications according to radiotherapy dose. This study investigates the risk of radiation-induced severe dry-eye syndrome in patients in whom an entire orbit was exposed to fractionated external beam irradiation. METHODS AND MATERIALS: Between October 1964 and May 1989, 33 patients with extracranial head and neck tumors received irradiation of an entire orbit. Most patients were treated with 60Co. The dose to the lacrimal apparatus was calculated at a depth of 1 cm from the anterior skin surface, the approximate depth of the major lacrimal gland. The end point of the study was severe dry-eye syndrome sufficient to produce visual loss secondary to corneal opacification, ulceration, or vascularization. RESULTS: Twenty patients developed severe dry-eye syndrome. All 17 patients who received doses > or = 57 Gy developed severe dry-eye syndrome. Three (19%) of 16 patients who received doses < or = 45 Gy developed severe dry-eye syndrome; injuries in the latter group were much slower to develop (4 to 11 years) than in the higher dose group, in whom corneal vascularization and opacification were usually pronounced within 9-10 months. There were no data for the range of doses between 45.01 and 56.99 Gy. The data did not suggest an increased risk of severe dry-eye syndrome with increasing age. CONCLUSION: Data from the current series and the literature are combined to construct a sigmoid dose response curve. The incidence of injury increases from 0% reported after doses < or = 30 Gy to 100% after doses > or = 57 Gy.

Adolescent↗

Serial visual evoked potentials and outcome in term birth asphyxia.

Birth asphyxia is a major cause of neonatal mortality and morbidity. It remains difficult to predict accurately neurologic outcome among survivors, particularly infants with moderate hypoxic-ischemic encephalopathy. Visual evoked potential (VEP) is a reproducible measure of cortical function and reflects acute changes in central nervous system status secondary to asphyxial insult. We performed serial VEPs on 36 term infants with documented birth asphyxia to investigate the relationship between VEPs and neurodevelopmental outcome at 18 months of age. Fourteen infants were neurologically intact at subsequent examination; all had normal VEPs during the first week of life. Twenty-two infants had died or were significantly handicapped at 18 months of age; 20 had abnormal VEPs persisting beyond day 7 of life. Abnormal VEPs accurately predicted abnormal outcome (100%) and were both sensitive (91%) and specific (100%). In 20 infants who were classified as moderately asphyxiated according to the criteria of Sarnat and Sarnat, even greater accuracy, sensitivity, and specificity (all 100%) were observed. VEPs demonstrate good correlation with neurodevelopmental outcome in term infants with birth asphyxia and provide accurate prognostic information useful in the clinical management of these infants.

Apgar Score↗

Preferred viewing distance and screen angle of electronic paper displays.

This study explored the viewing distance and screen angle for electronic paper (E-Paper) displays under various light sources, ambient illuminations, and character sizes. Data analysis showed that the mean viewing distance and screen angle were 495 mm and 123.7 degrees. The mean viewing distances for Kolin Chlorestic Liquid Crystal display was 500 mm, significantly longer than Sony electronic ink display, 491 mm. Screen angle for Kolin was 127.4 degrees, significantly greater than that of Sony, 120.0 degrees. Various light sources revealed no significant effect on viewing distances; nevertheless, they showed significant effect on screen angles. The screen angle for sunlight lamp (D65) was similar to that of fluorescent lamp (TL84), but greater than that of tungsten lamp (F). Ambient illumination and E-paper type had significant effects on viewing distance and screen angle. The higher the ambient illumination was, the longer the viewing distance and the lesser the screen angle. Character size had significant effect on viewing distances: the larger the character size, the longer the viewing distance. The results of this study indicated that the viewing distance for E-Paper was similar to that of visual display terminal (VDT) at around 500 mm, but greater than normal paper at about 360 mm. The mean screen angle was around 123.7 degrees, which in terms of viewing angle is 29.5 degrees below horizontal eye level. This result is similar to the general suggested viewing angle between 20 degrees and 50 degrees below the horizontal line of sight.

Adolescent↗

Does handedness influence the strength of phantom limb illusions in the virtual reality box?

Subjects had to judge the size of a tactile stimulus held in the unseen hand, while a visible phantom hand representing that unseen hand held a tactile stimulus of same or different size. No asymmetries in interference effects were found that could be related to hand or handedness. The method lends itself to quantification of virtual reality box illusions and can be used to evaluate the role of experience and sources of variability in the strength of the illusion across subjects.

Computer Simulation↗

The pointillism method for creating stimuli suitable for use in computer-based visual contrast sensitivity testing.

An increasingly large corpus of clinical and experimental neuropsychological research has demonstrated the utility of measuring visual contrast sensitivity. Unfortunately, existing means of measuring contrast sensitivity can be prohibitively expensive, difficult to standardize, or lack reliability. Additionally, most existing tests do not allow full control over important characteristics, such as off-angle rotations, waveform, contrast, and spatial frequency. Ideally, researchers could manipulate characteristics and display stimuli in a computerized task designed to meet experimental needs. Thus far, 256-bit color limitation in standard cathode ray tube (CRT) monitors has been preclusive. To this end, the pointillism method (PM) was developed. Using MATLAB software, stimuli are created based on both mathematical and stochastic components, such that differences in regional luminance values of the gradient field closely approximate the desired contrast. This paper describes the method and examines its performance in sine and square-wave image sets from a range of contrast values. Results suggest the utility of the method for most experimental applications. Weaknesses in the current version, the need for validation and reliability studies, and considerations regarding applications are discussed. Syntax for the program is provided in an appendix, and a version of the program independent of MATLAB is available from the author.

Computer Graphics↗

Binocular disparity encoding cells generated through an Infomax based learning algorithm.

A learning algorithm for a model binocular cell was derived according to an information maximization principle and by using a low signal-to-noise-ratio approximation. The algorithm updates cell's synaptic weights so that the information obtained from the cell's output is increased. According to the algorithm, model binocular cells were trained by using computer-generated stereo images as training data. As a result, cells tuned to various disparities were generated. Also, generated synaptic weight patterns of the cells were similar to Gabor-wavelets and receptive fields of simple cells in the visual cortex. Thus, they were orientation and spatial frequency selective as well as disparity selective. Gabor functions were used to fit the generated weight patterns. The fitting results indicated that the generated cells encode disparities in terms of phase disparity and/or position disparity. This result agrees with experimental findings by Anzai et al. [J Neurophys 82 (1999) 874] and is consistent with ICA-based theoretical results obtained [Network: Comput Neural Syst 11 (2000) 191].

Algorithms↗

Frequency flows and the time-frequency dynamics of multivariate phase synchronization in brain signals.

The quantification of phase synchrony between brain signals is of crucial importance for the study of large-scale interactions in the brain. Current methods are based on the estimation of the stability of the phase difference between pairs of signals over a time window, within successive frequency bands. This paper introduces a new approach to study the dynamics of brain synchronies, Frequency Flows Analysis (FFA). It allows direct tracking and characterization of the nonstationary time-frequency dynamics of phase synchrony among groups of signals. It is based on the use of the one-to-one relationship between frequency locking and phase synchrony, which applies when the concept of phase synchrony is not taken in an extended 'statistical' sense of a bias in the distribution of phase differences, but in the sense of a continuous phase difference conservation during a short period of time. In such a case, phase synchrony implies identical instantaneous frequencies among synchronized signals, with possible time varying frequencies of synchronization. In this framework, synchronous groups of signals or neural assemblies can be identified as belonging to common frequency flows, and the problem of studying synchronization becomes the problem of tracking frequency flows. We use the ridges of the analytic wavelet transforms of the signals of interest in order to estimate maps of instantaneous frequencies and reveal sustained periods of common instantaneous frequency among groups of signal. FFA is shown to track complex dynamics of synchrony in coupled oscillator models, reveal the time-frequency and spatial dynamics of synchrony convergence and divergence in epileptic seizures, and in MEG data the large-scale ongoing dynamics of synchrony correlated with conscious perception during binocular rivalry.

Adult↗

Pooling signals from vertically and non-vertically orientation-tuned disparity mechanisms in human stereopsis.

To understand the role that orientation-tuned disparity-sensitive mechanisms play in the perception of stereoscopic depth, we measured stereothresholds using two sets of random-dot stimuli that produce identical stimulation of disparity mechanisms tuned to vertical orientation but dissimilar stimulation of disparity mechanisms tuned to non-vertical orientations. Either 1 or 1.5D of astigmatic blur was simulated in the random-dot images presented to both eyes, using two axis configurations. In the parallel-axis conditions, the axis of simulated astigmatic blur was same in the two eyes (0, 45 or 135 o[rientation]deg). In the orthogonal-axis conditions, the axes of astigmatic blur were orthogonal in the two eyes (LE: 180, RE: 90; LE: 90, RE: 180; LE: 45, RE: 135; and LE: 135, RE: 45). Whereas the stimulation of disparity mechanisms tuned to near-vertical orientations should be similar in the oblique parallel- and orthogonal-axis conditions, the stimulation of non-vertically tuned disparity mechanisms should be dissimilar. Measured stereothresholds were higher in the orthogonal compared to the parallel-axis condition by factors of approximately 2 and 5, for 1 and 1.5D of simulated oblique astigmatic blur, respectively. Further, for comparable magnitudes of simulated astigmatic blur, stereothresholds in the (LE: 180, RE: 90 and LE: 90, RE: 180) conditions were similar to those in the (LE: 45, RE: 135 and LE: 135, RE: 45) conditions. These results suggest that the computation of horizontal disparity includes substantial contributions from disparity mechanisms tuned to non-vertical orientations. Simulations using a modified version of a disparity-energy model [Qian, N., & Zhu, Y. (1997). Physiological computation of binocular disparity. Vision Research, 37, 1811-1827], show (1) that pooling across disparity mechanisms tuned to vertical and non-vertical orientations is required to account for our data and (2) that this pooling can provide the spatial resolution needed to encode spatially changing horizontal disparities.

Depth Perception↗

Adaptation of single photon responses in photoreceptors of the housefly, Musca domestica: a novel spectral analysis.

The absorption of a photon by a photoreceptor triggers a small voltage fluctuation termed the 'bump'. Here, in the housefly, I introduce the bispectrum of photoreceptor noise to characterise the bump under dim light. The bispectrum provides explicit phase information and is not contaminated by Gaussian background noise. Over the photon rates examined (<10(4) s(-1)), I show that bumps are minimum-phase, noise spectra are little affected by natural variations in bump shape and bumps adapt such that amplitude is approximately proportional to duration squared. In the dark exists a 'dark event', which I suggest represents spontaneous activation of G-protein.

Adaptation, Ocular↗

Neural correlates of monocular and binocular depth cues based on natural images: a LORETA analysis.

Functional imaging studies investigating perception of depth rely solely on one type of depth cue based on non-natural stimulus material. To overcome these limitations and to provide a more realistic and complete set of depth cues natural stereoscopic images were used in this study. Using slow cortical potentials and source localization we aimed to identify the neural correlates of monocular and binocular depth cues. This study confirms and extends functional imaging studies, showing that natural images provide a good, reliable, and more realistic alternative to artificial stimuli, and demonstrates the possibility to separate the processing of different depth cues.

Adolescent↗

A comparison of visual and automated methods of analyzing fetal heart rate tests.

OBJECTIVES: Our objective in this study was to compare evaluation and clinical implications of visual versus computerized analysis of nonstress tests. METHODS: Nonstress tests of 575 high-risk patients were analyzed visually and by a computer using the Oxford Sonicaid System 8000. Standard reactivity criteria were used for visual assessment; the System 8000 used an algorithm with the Dawes-Redman criteria. RESULTS: Ninety-six percent of nonstress tests that met Dawes-Redman criteria were reactive by visual analysis; 93% of reactive nonstress tests met Dawes-Redman criteria. Only 30% of tests that failed Dawes-Redman criteria were nonreactive, whereas 44% of nonreactive tests failed to meet Dawes-Redman criteria. Sensitivities, specificities, and positive and negative predictive values were similar for both approaches. Additional tests or interventions would have occurred in 9% of the cases analyzed by System 8000 and in 49% of the cases analyzed visually. CONCLUSIONS: Although these approaches rate nonstress tests differently, their diagnostic performances are similar. Automated fetal heart rate testing may become an acceptable alternative to conventional visual analysis.

Female↗

Using virtual reality technology for aircraft visual inspection training: presence and comparison studies.

The aircraft maintenance industry is a complex system consisting of several interrelated human and machine components. Recognizing this, the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) has pursued human factors related research. In the maintenance arena the research has focused on the aircraft inspection process and the aircraft inspector. Training has been identified as the primary intervention strategy to improve the quality and reliability of aircraft inspection. If training is to be successful, it is critical that we provide aircraft inspectors with appropriate training tools and environment. In response to this need, the paper outlines the development of a virtual reality (VR) system for aircraft inspection training. VR has generated much excitement but little formal proof that it is useful. However, since VR interfaces are difficult and expensive to build, the computer graphics community needs to be able to predict which applications will benefit from VR. To address this important issue, this research measured the degree of immersion and presence felt by subjects in a virtual environment simulator. Specifically, it conducted two controlled studies using the VR system developed for visual inspection task of an aft-cargo bay at the VR Lab of Clemson University. Beyond assembling the visual inspection virtual environment, a significant goal of this project was to explore subjective presence as it affects task performance. The results of this study indicated that the system scored high on the issues related to the degree of presence felt by the subjects. As a next logical step, this study, then, compared VR to an existing PC-based aircraft inspection simulator. The results showed that the VR system was better and preferred over the PC-based training tool.

Adult↗

Oculomotor changes within virtual environments.

This paper discusses the oculomotor changes which might be expected to occur during immersion in a virtual environment whilst wearing a Head mounted display (HMD). To do so, it first examines the stimulus presented to the eyes, and then considers how this stimulus could affect the visual system. Theoretical analysis and empirical results from the use of three different HMDs point towards the same conclusion, that in this context a mismatch between the instrument inter-ocular distance (IOD) and the user's inter-pupillary distance is of little concern, unlike the mismatch between the instrument IOD and the inter-screen distance.

Adaptation, Physiological↗

Developing visual systems and exposure to virtual reality and stereo displays: some concerns and speculations about the demands on accommodation and vergence.

Little is known about the developmental plasticity of the vergence and accommodative systems, an important issue since abnormalities can lead to visual problems, e.g. strabismus. One way of artificially altering the links between accommodation and vergence is to vary the stimulus to vergence while fixing the accommodative stimulus, as is found in virtual reality displays. While it would be of interest to study developmental plasticity in this situation, since many children are exposed to games machines which use this arrangement, no studies to date have tackled this issue. There is, however, some indication that long-term VR viewing in adults can lead to visual problems. It seems important to determine the safety of these systems for the developing human visual system before they come into common use. In this paper, adaptation of the accommodation and vergence systems and the effect of VR viewing in adults is discussed. The sparse literature on adaptation in children is then reviewed, and suggestions made for approaches that would enhance our knowledge of plasticity of accommodation and vergence in children.

Accommodation, Ocular↗

Physical ergonomics of virtual environment use.

This paper describes an investigation of the types of problems that may be experienced by Virtual Reality (VR) users. Initial concerns have been voiced about various issues concerning the design of VR equipment, particularly the physical ergonomics of head-mounted displays (HMDs) and hand-held input devices, and the problems associated with display resolution and lags. This study investigated a number of VR users' perceptions of the types of physical ergonomics issues that they were aware of when participating in a number of different virtual environments (VEs), using different VR systems. Several different methods were employed, including questionnaires, body mapping, user observation and interviews. Issues highlighted as either causing participants discomfort or interfering with their experience of the VE were: discomfort from static posture requirements, general discomfort from wearing the HMD, difficulty becoming accustomed to 3D hand held input devices, dissatisfaction with deficits in the visual display and fear of getting 'tangled' in connecting cables. The implications of these findings for developers, implementers and users of VR are discussed.

Adult↗