Vision

12 pages, 810 KB

Open AccessArticle

Investigation of the Visual Acuity Test Success Rate of a New Child-Friendly Minimum-Separable Chart for 2- and 3-Year-Old Children

by Yo Iwata

Vision 2025, 9(4), 100; https://doi.org/10.3390/vision9040100 - 17 Dec 2025

Viewed by 112

Abstract

Background/Objectives: Early detection and timely treatment of amblyopia require reliable visual acuity testing in toddlers; however, conventional Landolt ring charts often show poor testability in 2–3-year-old children. Therefore, we aimed to verify the practicality of a new Child-Friendly Minimum-Separable (CFMS) chart for 2–3-year-old [...] Read more.

Background/Objectives: Early detection and timely treatment of amblyopia require reliable visual acuity testing in toddlers; however, conventional Landolt ring charts often show poor testability in 2–3-year-old children. Therefore, we aimed to verify the practicality of a new Child-Friendly Minimum-Separable (CFMS) chart for 2–3-year-old children by comparing cooperation rates with the standard Landolt ring visual acuity chart. Methods: A prospective pilot study was conducted on 20 children aged 2 years (30.6 ± 3.2 months) and 20 children aged 3 years (41.8 ± 3.9 months). Right-eye visual acuity was tested in random order using the Landolt ring (four options, 3/5 considered correct) and the CFMS chart (two options, 3/3 considered correct). Test cooperation rates and visual acuity were analyzed. Results: In the 2-year-olds, the cooperation rate was 15% and 75% for the Landolt ring and CFMS chart, respectively (p = 0.0005). Twelve children refused to cooperate with the Landolt ring but cooperated with the CFMS chart; the reverse did not occur. In the 3-year-olds, the cooperation rate was 60% and 90% for the Landolt ring and CFMS chart, respectively (p = 0.031); six children cooperated only with the CFMS chart. The odds ratio for cooperation per additional month of age was 1.34 (95% confidence interval [CI]: 1.12–1.59; p = 0.001) and 1.24 (95% CI: 1.03–1.50; p = 0.026) for the Landolt ring and CFMS chart, respectively. Conclusions: Compared to the Landolt ring, the CFMS chart significantly improves cooperation rates for visual acuity testing in 2−3-year-old children, especially among 2-year-olds. Full article

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13 pages, 1319 KB

Open AccessArticle

Impact of Simulated Astigmatism on Visual Acuity, Stereopsis, and Reading in Young Adults

by Chow Wang Ming Shato, Ricardo Noguera Louzada, Pedro Lucas Machado Magalhães, Dillan Cunha Amaral, Daniel Oliveira Dantas, Daniel Alves Montenegro, Melanie May Chow, David Tayah and Milton Ruiz Alves

Vision 2025, 9(4), 99; https://doi.org/10.3390/vision9040099 - 16 Dec 2025

Viewed by 189

Abstract

This study investigated the functional visual impact of simulated astigmatic blur using cylindrical powers of 0.50 D, 1.00 D, and 2.00 D, applied in against-the-rule (ATR), with-the-rule (WTR), and oblique (OBL) axes, in adults aged 18 to 35 years with no known ocular [...] Read more.

This study investigated the functional visual impact of simulated astigmatic blur using cylindrical powers of 0.50 D, 1.00 D, and 2.00 D, applied in against-the-rule (ATR), with-the-rule (WTR), and oblique (OBL) axes, in adults aged 18 to 35 years with no known ocular disease. Forty-five young adults were randomly divided into three groups (n = 15). Binocular best-corrected visual acuity (distance and near) was recorded in logMAR using the ETDRS acuity chart at 5 m and 40 cm, supported by acuity optotypes displayed in a Bailey–Lovie chart format. Depth-fusion and disparity discrimination were measured using polarized stereopsis thresholds with the Randot^® Stereo Test from Stereo Optical Company, Inc. Reading performance was quantified as a continuous binocular rate metric (words per minute) using the validated Portuguese digital reading curve provided by the MNREAD iPad App by Precision Vision at 40 cm. The results were preserved verbatim as follows: Distance and near BCVA were significantly affected by ATR astigmatisms (−0.50 + 1.00 90°, −1.00 + 2.00 90°), WTR astigmatisms (−0.25 + 0.50 180°, −0.50 + 1.00 180°, −1.00 + 2.00 180°), and OBL astigmatisms (OD: −0.25 + 0.50 45°, OS: −0.25 + 0.50 135°; OD: −0.50 + 1.00 45°, OS: −0.50 + 1.00 135°; OD: −1.00 + 2.00 45°, OS: −1.00 + 2.00 135°). Stereopsis was significantly influenced by high-power OBL astigmatism (−1.00 + 2.00). Reading rate was also negatively impacted by OBL astigmatisms ≥1.00 D. Simulated astigmatism of different powers and axes reduced high-contrast distance and near BCVA, stereopsis, and reading speed in adults aged 18–35 years. Higher-power astigmatism, particularly along oblique axes, caused the most significant functional impairment. Full article

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13 pages, 1592 KB

Open AccessArticle

Curcumin-Based Supplement for Vitreous Floaters Post-Nd:YAG Capsulotomy: A Pilot Study

by Alex Malandrini, Giovanni Rubegni, Davide Marini, Giulia Spadavecchia and Gian Marco Tosi

Vision 2025, 9(4), 98; https://doi.org/10.3390/vision9040098 - 16 Dec 2025

Viewed by 248

Abstract

Background: To evaluate the short-term effects of a dietary supplement containing curcumin, bromelain, glucosamine, chondroitin sulphate, sodium hyaluronate, type II collagen, and vitamin C on symptomatic vitreous floaters (SVFs) following Nd:YAG laser capsulotomy. Methods: Forty eyes with SVFs on the first [...] Read more.

Background: To evaluate the short-term effects of a dietary supplement containing curcumin, bromelain, glucosamine, chondroitin sulphate, sodium hyaluronate, type II collagen, and vitamin C on symptomatic vitreous floaters (SVFs) following Nd:YAG laser capsulotomy. Methods: Forty eyes with SVFs on the first postoperative day were randomized into a control group (standard topical therapy, n = 20) and a treatment group (oral supplement plus standard therapy, n = 20). Outcomes included best-corrected visual acuity (BCVA), contrast sensitivity (CS), and subjective scores from a non-standardized questionnaire on floater perception (QS1), interference with daily activities (QS2), and foreign body sensation (QS3). Objective evaluation was performed using two novel ultrasound-based methods: mean number of vitreous peaks (MVP) from A-scans and mean grey intensity (MGI) from B-scan images processed with ImageJ. Results: At 2 months, the treatment group showed greater improvement in CS (Δ = 0.26 LogCS, CI, 0.14–0.38; p < 0.01), QS1 (Δ = 1.10; 95% CI, 0.60–1.60; p < 0.01), QS2 (Δ = 0.90; 95% CI, 0.40–1.40; p < 0.01), QS3 (Δ = 0.90; 95% CI, 0.44–1.36; p < 0.01), MVP (Δ = 1.10; 95% CI, 0.60–1.60; p < 0.01), and MGI (Δ = 12.89 units; 95% CI, 7.84–17.93; p < 0.01). BCVA was comparable between groups (p = 0.478). Conclusions: Short-term dietary supplementation with vitreous-specific nutrients is well tolerated and associated with improvements in reducing SVFs and foreign body sensations after Nd:YAG capsulotomy and may represent a promising non-invasive therapeutic option. Full article

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10 pages, 951 KB

Open AccessArticle

Exploring Structural and Vascular Changes of the Optic Nerve Head After Trabeculectomy in Primary Open-Angle Glaucoma

by Francesco Cappellani, Niccolò Castellino, Marco Zeppieri, Fabiana D’Esposito, Alessandro Avitabile, Giovanni Rubegni, Ludovica Cannizzaro, Giuseppe Gagliano and Antonio Longo

Vision 2025, 9(4), 97; https://doi.org/10.3390/vision9040097 - 7 Dec 2025

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Abstract

Background: Trabeculectomy remains gold-standard surgical approach for intraocular pressure (IOP) control in glaucoma, yet its impact on optic nerve head (ONH) morphology and retinal microvasculature has not been fully clarified. This study aimed to investigate structural and vascular changes of the ONH and [...] Read more.

Background: Trabeculectomy remains gold-standard surgical approach for intraocular pressure (IOP) control in glaucoma, yet its impact on optic nerve head (ONH) morphology and retinal microvasculature has not been fully clarified. This study aimed to investigate structural and vascular changes of the ONH and macula after trabeculectomy using spectral-domain optical coherence tomography (SD-OCT) and OCT angiography (OCTA). Methods: In this retrospective study, data from 22 patients with primary open-angle glaucoma who underwent uncomplicated trabeculectomy were reviewed. The fellow eye served as control. Structural parameters, including Bruch’s membrane opening (BMO), maximum cup depth (MCD), and cup area, were measured with SD-OCT. Vessel density (VD) of the optic disc, peripapillary retina, and macular superficial (SCP) and deep (DCP) capillary plexuses were analyzed with OCTA. Preoperative and two-month postoperative data were compared using paired statistical tests. Results: Mean IOP decreased from 23.1 ± 3.9 mmHg to 13.2 ± 3.2 mmHg (p < 0.001). Significant postoperative reductions were observed in BMO (−5 ± 6%, p = 0.004), MCD (−31 ± 8%, p < 0.001), and cup area (−44 ± 18%, p < 0.001). RNFL thickness and ONH vascular parameters remained stable. In contrast, DCP vessel density increased in the foveal (p = 0.002) and parafoveal (p = 0.023) regions, while SCP density showed no significant change. Conclusions: Trabeculectomy was associated with measurable reversal of optic disc cupping, indicating partial structural recovery of the ONH following IOP reduction. The selective improvement in deep retinal vessel density suggests a layer-specific microvascular response. These findings provide further insight into the interplay between mechanical and vascular mechanisms in glaucoma and may inform postoperative monitoring strategies. Full article

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14 pages, 1479 KB

Open AccessArticle

Big Data on Climatic and Environmental Parameters Associated with Acute Ocular Surface Symptoms and Therapeutic Assessment: Eye Drops Sales, Google Trends and Environmental Changes

by Felipe Barbosa Galvão Azzem Ferraz, Mateus Maia Marzola, Marina Zilio Fantucci, Adriana de Andrade Batista Murashima, Beatriz Carneiro Cintra, Denny Marcos Garcia and Eduardo Melani Rocha

Vision 2025, 9(4), 96; https://doi.org/10.3390/vision9040096 - 28 Nov 2025

Viewed by 259

Abstract

Ocular surface (OS) and dry eye (DE) symptoms are frequent ophthalmic complaints influenced by climate and pollution related with acute and chronic ocular surface symptoms. This study assessed their association with environmental conditions in São Paulo metropolitan area (2016–2020), including air temperature, humidity, [...] Read more.

Ocular surface (OS) and dry eye (DE) symptoms are frequent ophthalmic complaints influenced by climate and pollution related with acute and chronic ocular surface symptoms. This study assessed their association with environmental conditions in São Paulo metropolitan area (2016–2020), including air temperature, humidity, atmospheric pressure, ozone (O₃), particulate matter (PM), using IQVIA eye drop sales data and Google search trends. Sympathomimetic decongestant sales correlated with higher temperature (r = 0.434, p = 0.0021), UV radiation (r = 0.643, p < 0.0001), and ozone (r = 0.491, p = 0.0004). Artificial tears and lubricants correlated with ozone (r = 0.452, p = 0.0012) and with searches for “red eye” (r = 0.505, p = 0.0005) and “stye” (r = 0.599, p < 0.0001). To address multicollinearity, Principal Component Analysis (PCA) was applied, with the first two components (PC1 and PC2) explaining 87.3% of variance. Regression models using these components were significant for decongestant sales and “stye” searches. Eye drop sales and search trends thus emerge as potential indicators of OS and DE symptoms, reflecting environmental conditions and informing prevention strategies. Full article

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13 pages, 1774 KB

Open AccessArticle

Geographic Atrophy Progression in Clinical Practice Before and After Pegcetacoplan Treatment

by Jessica A. Cao, Avery W. Zhou, Gail M. Teagle, Liisa M. Baumann, Ryan A. Sahraravand, Calvin W. Wong, Sandro De Zanet, Natasa Jovic, Patrick Steiner, Sagar B. Patel, Samuel A. Minaker, Mathew W. MacCumber, David M. Brown, Hasenin Al-khersan and Charles C. Wykoff

Vision 2025, 9(4), 95; https://doi.org/10.3390/vision9040095 - 18 Nov 2025

Viewed by 889

Abstract

This retrospective study evaluated changes in ocular characteristics and retinal pigment epithelium (RPE) and photoreceptor ellipsoid zone (EZ) depletion rates before and after intravitreal pegcetacoplan initiation in clinical practice. A total of 168 eyes from 110 patients with GA secondary to age-related macular [...] Read more.

This retrospective study evaluated changes in ocular characteristics and retinal pigment epithelium (RPE) and photoreceptor ellipsoid zone (EZ) depletion rates before and after intravitreal pegcetacoplan initiation in clinical practice. A total of 168 eyes from 110 patients with GA secondary to age-related macular degeneration (AMD) who received at least 3 pegcetacoplan injections were included. Data was collected from 5 years before to 9 months after pegcetacoplan initiation. RPE and EZ depletion areas were measured using an automated artificial intelligence (AI) algorithm on optical coherence tomography (OCT) images. At baseline, 76 eyes (45.2%) had concurrent neovascular AMD (nAMD), with mean RPE and EZ depletion areas of 3.3 mm² and 4.9 mm², respectively. By pegcetacoplan initiation, these increased to 8.6 mm² and 11.2 mm², respectively, with 151 eyes (89.9%) having concurrent nAMD and 155 eyes (92.3%) having subfoveal GA. Pre-treatment to post-treatment RPE and EZ square root depletion rates decreased from 0.25 mm/year to 0.096 mm/year, and 0.26 mm/year to 0.049 mm/year, respectively. Mean best-recorded visual acuity (BRVA) worsened by 0.05 logMAR annually before and after treatment. These real-world findings align with data from the pegcetacoplan phase 3 trials, showing reduced RPE and EZ depletion rates without changes in rates of BRVA loss. Additional studies are warranted. Full article

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11 pages, 929 KB

Open AccessArticle

Clinical Evaluation of an Affordable Handheld Wavefront Autorefractor in an Adult Population in a Low-Resource Setting in the Amazonas

by David Tayah, Ricardo Noguera Louzada, Pedro Lucas Machado Magalhães, Youssef Tayah, Dillan Cunha Amaral, Chow Wang Ming Shato, Daniel Oliveira Dantas and Milton Ruiz Alves

Vision 2025, 9(4), 94; https://doi.org/10.3390/vision9040094 - 6 Nov 2025

Viewed by 505

Abstract

This study evaluates the ability of the QuickSee Free (QSF) portable autorefractor (PlenOptika) to detect and measure refractive error compared to subjective clinical refractometry (SCR) in a Brazilian adult population in a low-resource setting in Amazonas. A total of 100 participants aged 18–65 [...] Read more.

This study evaluates the ability of the QuickSee Free (QSF) portable autorefractor (PlenOptika) to detect and measure refractive error compared to subjective clinical refractometry (SCR) in a Brazilian adult population in a low-resource setting in Amazonas. A total of 100 participants aged 18–65 years underwent visual acuity screening and autorefraction with and without cycloplegia using the QSF, alongside a complete ophthalmic examination including SCR. Refractive error measurements included spherical component (SC), cylindrical component (CC), cylindrical axis (CA), spherical equivalent (SE), and vector powers (MV90 and MV135). Accuracy was assessed for hyperopia ≥ +2.00 D, myopia ≤ −0.75 D, astigmatism ≥ 1.00 DC, and anisometropia ≥ 1.00 D using receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curve analysis. The area under the curve for detecting significant refractive errors ranged from 0.538 to 0.930. The mean difference between QSF without cycloplegia and SCR was −1.08 ± 1.17 D for SC and −1.15 ± 1.15 D for SE (p < 0.0001), and with cycloplegia, it was −0.81 ± 1.07 D and −0.83 ± 1.02 D, respectively. The QSF exhibited a moderate negative bias for both SC and SE with and without cycloplegia, underestimating these values, but it showed good predictability for detecting refractive errors in a low-resource setting. Full article

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19 pages, 18085 KB

Open AccessArticle

Comparative Analysis of Transformer Architectures and Ensemble Methods for Automated Glaucoma Screening in Fundus Images from Portable Ophthalmoscopes

by Rodrigo Otávio Cantanhede Costa, Pedro Alexandre Ferreira França, Alexandre César Pinto Pessoa, Geraldo Braz Júnior, João Dallyson Sousa de Almeida and António Cunha

Vision 2025, 9(4), 93; https://doi.org/10.3390/vision9040093 - 3 Nov 2025

Viewed by 647

Abstract

Deep learning for glaucoma screening often relies on high-resolution clinical images and convolutional neural networks (CNNs). However, these methods face significant performance drops when applied to noisy, low-resolution images from portable devices. To address this, our work investigates ensemble methods using multiple Transformer [...] Read more.

Deep learning for glaucoma screening often relies on high-resolution clinical images and convolutional neural networks (CNNs). However, these methods face significant performance drops when applied to noisy, low-resolution images from portable devices. To address this, our work investigates ensemble methods using multiple Transformer architectures for automated glaucoma detection in challenging scenarios. We use the Brazil Glaucoma (BrG) and private D-Eye datasets to assess model robustness. These datasets include images typical of smartphone-coupled ophthalmoscopes, which are often noisy and variable in quality. Four Transformer models—Swin-Tiny, ViT-Base, MobileViT-Small, and DeiT-Base—were trained and evaluated both individually and in ensembles. We evaluated the results at both image and patient levels to reflect clinical practice. The results show that, although performance drops on lower-quality images, ensemble combinations and patient-level aggregation significantly improve accuracy and sensitivity. We achieved up to 85% accuracy and an 84.2% F1-score on the D-Eye dataset, with a notable reduction in false negatives. Grad-CAM attention maps confirmed that Transformers identify anatomical regions relevant to diagnosis. These findings reinforce the potential of Transformer ensembles as an accessible solution for early glaucoma detection in populations with limited access to specialized equipment. Full article

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21 pages, 1691 KB

Open AccessArticle

Biases in Perceiving Positive Versus Negative Emotions: The Influence of Social Anxiety and State Affect

by Vivian M. Ciaramitaro, Erinda Morina, Jenny L. Wu, Daniel A. Harris and Sarah A. Hayes-Skelton

Vision 2025, 9(4), 92; https://doi.org/10.3390/vision9040092 - 1 Nov 2025

Viewed by 1140

Abstract

Models suggest social anxiety is characterized by negative processing biases. Negative biases also arise from negative mood, i.e., state affect. We examined how social anxiety influences emotional processing and whether state affect, or mood, modified the relationship between social anxiety and perceptual bias. [...] Read more.

Models suggest social anxiety is characterized by negative processing biases. Negative biases also arise from negative mood, i.e., state affect. We examined how social anxiety influences emotional processing and whether state affect, or mood, modified the relationship between social anxiety and perceptual bias. We quantified bias by determining the point of subjective equality, PSE, the face judged equally often as happy and as angry. We found perceptual bias depended on social anxiety and state affect. PSE was greater in individuals high (mean PSE: 8.69) versus low (mean PSE: 3.04) in social anxiety. The higher PSE indicated a stronger negative bias in high social anxiety. State affect modified this relationship, with high social anxiety associated with stronger negative biases, but only for individuals with greater negative affect. State affect and trait anxiety interacted such that social anxiety status alone was insufficient to fully characterize perceptual biases. This raises several issues such as the need to consider what constitutes an appropriate control group and the need to consider state affect in social anxiety. Importantly, our results suggest compensatory effects may counteract the influences of negative mood in individuals low in social anxiety. Full article

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29 pages, 11403 KB

Open AccessArticle

In-Vivo Characterization of Healthy Retinal Pigment Epithelium and Photoreceptor Cells from AO-(T)FI Imaging

by Sohrab Ferdowsi, Leila Sara Eppenberger, Safa Mohanna, Oliver Pfäffli, Christoph Amstutz, Lucas M. Bachmann, Michael A. Thiel and Martin K. Schmid

Vision 2025, 9(4), 91; https://doi.org/10.3390/vision9040091 - 1 Nov 2025

Viewed by 566

Abstract

We provide an automated characterization of human retinal cells, i.e., RPE’s based on the non-invasive AO-TFI retinal imaging and PR’s based on the non-invasive AO-FI retinal imaging on a large-scale study involving 171 confirmed healthy eyes from 104 participants of 23 to 80 [...] Read more.

We provide an automated characterization of human retinal cells, i.e., RPE’s based on the non-invasive AO-TFI retinal imaging and PR’s based on the non-invasive AO-FI retinal imaging on a large-scale study involving 171 confirmed healthy eyes from 104 participants of 23 to 80 years old. Comprehensive standard checkups based on SD-OCT and Fondus imaging modalities were carried out by Ophthalmologists from the Luzerner Kantonsspital (LUKS) to confirm the absence of retinal pathologies. AO imaging imaging was performed using the Cellularis^® device and each eye was imaged at various retinal eccentricities. The images were automatically segmented using a dedicated software and RPE and PR cells were identified and morphometric characterizations, such as cell density and area were computed. The results were stratified based on various criteria, such as age, retinal eccentricity, visual acuity, etc. The automatic segmentation was validated independently on a held-out set by five trained medical students not involved in this study. We plotted cell density variations as a function of eccentricity from the fovea along both nasal and temporal directions. For RPE cells, no consistent trend in density was observed between 0° to 9° eccentricity, contrasting with established histological literature demonstrating foveal density peaks. In contrast, PR cell density showed a clear decrease from 2.5° to 9°. RPE cell density declined linearly with age, whereas no age-related pattern was detected for PR cell density. On average, RPE cell density was found to be ≈6313 cells/mm² (

\pm σ = 757

), while the average PR cell density was calculated as ≈10,207 cells/mm² (

\pm σ = 1273

). Full article

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17 pages, 1109 KB

Open AccessReview

Birefringence of the Human Cornea: A Review

by Sudi Patel, Larysa Tutchenko and Igor Dmytruk

Vision 2025, 9(4), 90; https://doi.org/10.3390/vision9040090 - 28 Oct 2025

Viewed by 662

Abstract

Background: This paper aims to provide an overview of corneal birefringence (CB), systematize the knowledge and current understanding of CB, and identify difficulties associated with introducing CB into mainstream clinical practice. Methods: Literature reviews were conducted, seeking articles focused on CB published between [...] Read more.

Background: This paper aims to provide an overview of corneal birefringence (CB), systematize the knowledge and current understanding of CB, and identify difficulties associated with introducing CB into mainstream clinical practice. Methods: Literature reviews were conducted, seeking articles focused on CB published between the early 19th century and the present time. Secondary-level searches were made examining relevant publications referred to in primary-level publications, ranging back to the early 17th century. The key search words were “corneal birefringence” and “non-invasive measurements”. Results: CB was first recorded by Brewster in 1815. Orthogonally polarized rays travel at different speeds through the cornea, creating a slow axis and a fast axis. The slow axis aligns with the pattern of most corneal stromal collagen fibrils. In vivo, it is oriented along the superior temporal–inferior nasal direction at an angle of about 25° (with an approximate range of −54° to 90°) from the horizontal. CB has been reported to (i) influence the estimation of retinal nerve fiber layer thickness; (ii) be affected by corneal interventions; (iii) be altered in keratoconus; (iv) vary along the depth of the cornea; and (v) be affected by intra-ocular pressure. Conclusions: Under precisely controlled conditions, capturing the CB pattern is the first step in a non-destructive process used to model the ultra-fine structure of the individual cornea, and changes thereof, in vivo. Full article

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13 pages, 268 KB

Open AccessArticle

Prevalence of Keratoconus and Associated Risk Factors Among High School Students in Couva, Trinidad: A Cross-Sectional Study

by Ngozika Esther Ezinne, Shinead Phagoo, Ameera Roopnarinesingh and Michael Agyemang Kwarteng

Vision 2025, 9(4), 89; https://doi.org/10.3390/vision9040089 - 20 Oct 2025

Viewed by 1010

Abstract

Purpose: This study aimed to determine the prevalence and associated risk factors of keratoconus (KC) among high school students in Couva, Trinidad and Tobago. Method: A cross-sectional, school-based approach was used, involving a simple random sampling technique to select schools and students. A [...] Read more.

Purpose: This study aimed to determine the prevalence and associated risk factors of keratoconus (KC) among high school students in Couva, Trinidad and Tobago. Method: A cross-sectional, school-based approach was used, involving a simple random sampling technique to select schools and students. A structured questionnaire assessed KC risk factors, while clinical assessments, including visual acuity, refraction, slit lamp biomicroscopy, and topography, were performed. Data were analyzed using R. Exact tests were used for KC (n = 2 cases) and robust Poisson regression estimated adjusted prevalence ratios for the ‘at-risk’ screening endpoint. Results: A total of 432 students aged 12–17 years participated, with a response rate of 97.5%. Most participants were of East Indian descent (48.1%), female (52.1%), and 14 years old (23.1%). Approximately 47.7% (95% CI 43.0–52.5%) were at risk of KC, with 0.5% (2/432; exact 95% CI 0.06–1.67%) diagnosed with the condition. The most common risk factors were eye rubbing (87.4%), over eight hours of sun exposure weekly (71.8%), and atopy (68.4%). KC was observed to be significantly higher among people with a family history (p = 0.018). Conclusions: The study highlights a low prevalence and a high risk of KC among high school students, with a strong link to family history and common risk factors such as eye rubbing and sun exposure. These findings emphasize the urgent need for regular KC screening in schools to ensure early diagnosis and effective management. Full article

13 pages, 1312 KB

Open AccessArticle

Comparing Visual Search Efficiency Across Different Facial Characteristics

by Navdeep Kaur, Isabella Hooge and Andrea Albonico

Vision 2025, 9(4), 88; https://doi.org/10.3390/vision9040088 - 15 Oct 2025

Viewed by 622

Abstract

Face recognition is an important skill that helps people make social judgments by identifying both who a person is and other characteristics such as their expression, age, and ethnicity. Previous models of face processing, such as those proposed by Bruce and Young and [...] Read more.

Face recognition is an important skill that helps people make social judgments by identifying both who a person is and other characteristics such as their expression, age, and ethnicity. Previous models of face processing, such as those proposed by Bruce and Young and by Haxby and colleagues, suggest that identity and other facial features are processed through partly independent systems. This study aimed to compare the efficiency with which different facial characteristics are processed in a visual search task. Participants viewed arrays of two, four, or six faces and judged whether one face differed from the others. Four tasks were created, focusing separately on identity, expression, ethnicity, and gender. We found that search times were significantly longer when looking for identity and shorter when looking for ethnicity. Significant correlations were found among almost all tests in all outcome variables. Comparison of target-present and target-absent trials suggested that performance in none of the tests seems to follow a serial-search-terminating model. These results suggest that different facial characteristics share early processing but differentiate into independent recognition mechanisms at a later stage. Full article

(This article belongs to the Section Visual Neuroscience)

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11 pages, 923 KB

Open AccessArticle

Development of a Neural Network to Predict Optimal IOP Reduction in Glaucoma Management

by Raheem Remtulla, Sidrat Rahman and Hady Saheb

Vision 2025, 9(4), 87; https://doi.org/10.3390/vision9040087 - 15 Oct 2025

Viewed by 658

Abstract

Glaucoma management relies on lowering intraocular pressure (IOP), but determining the target reduction at presentation is challenging, particularly in normal-tension glaucoma (NTG). We developed and internally validated a neural network regression model using retrospective clinical data from Qiu et al. (2015), including 270 [...] Read more.

Glaucoma management relies on lowering intraocular pressure (IOP), but determining the target reduction at presentation is challenging, particularly in normal-tension glaucoma (NTG). We developed and internally validated a neural network regression model using retrospective clinical data from Qiu et al. (2015), including 270 patients (118 with NTG). A single-layer artificial neural network with five nodes was trained in MATLAB R2024b using the Levenberg–Marquardt algorithm. Inputs included demographic, refractive, structural, and functional parameters, with IOP reduction as the output. Data were split into 65% training, 15% validation, and 20% testing, with training repeated 10 times. Model performance was strong and consistent (average RMSE: 1.90 ± 0.29 training, 2.18 ± 0.34 validation, 2.11 ± 0.30 testing; Pearson’s r: 0.92 ± 0.02, 0.88 ± 0.02, 0.88 ± 0.04). The best-performing model achieved RMSEs of 1.57, 2.90, and 1.77 with r values of 0.93, 0.91, and 0.93, respectively. Feature ablation revealed significant contributions from IOP, axial length, CCT, diagnosis, VCDR, spherical equivalent, mean deviation, and laterality. This study demonstrates that a simple neural network can reliably predict individualized IOP reduction targets, supporting personalized glaucoma management and improved outcomes. Full article

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12 pages, 507 KB

Open AccessArticle

Clinical Assessment of a Virtual Reality Perimeter Versus the Humphrey Field Analyzer: Comparative Reliability, Usability, and Prospective Applications

by Marco Zeppieri, Caterina Gagliano, Francesco Cappellani, Federico Visalli, Fabiana D’Esposito, Alessandro Avitabile, Roberta Amato, Alessandra Cuna and Francesco Pellegrini

Vision 2025, 9(4), 86; https://doi.org/10.3390/vision9040086 - 11 Oct 2025

Viewed by 900

Abstract

Background: This study compared the performance of a Head-mounted Virtual Reality Perimeter (HVRP) with the Humphrey Field Analyzer (HFA), the standard in automated perimetry. The HFA is the established standard for automated perimetry but is constrained by lengthy testing, bulky equipment, and limited [...] Read more.

Background: This study compared the performance of a Head-mounted Virtual Reality Perimeter (HVRP) with the Humphrey Field Analyzer (HFA), the standard in automated perimetry. The HFA is the established standard for automated perimetry but is constrained by lengthy testing, bulky equipment, and limited patient comfort. Comparative data on newer head-mounted virtual reality perimeters are limited, leaving uncertainty about their clinical reliability and potential advantages. Aim: The aim was to evaluate parameters such as visual field outcomes, portability, patient comfort, eye tracking, and usability. Methods: Participants underwent testing with both devices, assessing metrics like mean deviation (MD), pattern standard deviation (PSD), and duration. Results: The HVRP demonstrated small but statistically significant differences in MD and PSD compared to the HFA, while maintaining a consistent trend across participants. MD values were slightly more negative for HFA than HVRP (average difference −0.60 dB, p = 0.0006), while pattern standard deviation was marginally higher with HFA (average difference 0.38 dB, p = 0.00018). Although statistically significant, these differences were small in magnitude and do not undermine the clinical utility or reproducibility of the device. Notably, HVRP showed markedly shorter testing times with HVRP (7.15 vs. 18.11 min, mean difference 10.96 min, p < 0.0001). Its lightweight, portable design allowed for bedside and home testing, enhancing accessibility for pediatric, geriatric, and mobility-impaired patients. Participants reported greater comfort due to the headset design, which eliminated the need for chin rests. The device also offers potential for AI integration and remote data analysis. Conclusions: The HVRP proved to be a reliable, user-friendly alternative to traditional perimetry. Its advantages in comfort, portability, and test efficiency support its use in both clinical settings and remote screening programs for visual field assessment. Its portability and user-friendly design support broader use in clinical practice and expand possibilities for bedside assessment, home monitoring, and remote screening, particularly in populations with limited access to conventional perimetry. Full article

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15 pages, 897 KB

Open AccessArticle

Comparative Assessment of Large Language Models in Optics and Refractive Surgery: Performance on Multiple-Choice Questions

by Leah Attal, Elad Shvartz, Alon Gorenshtein, Shirley Pincovich and Daniel Bahir

Vision 2025, 9(4), 85; https://doi.org/10.3390/vision9040085 - 9 Oct 2025

Viewed by 930

Abstract

This study aimed to evaluate the performance of seven advanced AI Large Language Models (LLMs)—ChatGPT 4o, ChatGPT O3 Mini, ChatGPT O1, DeepSeek V3, DeepSeek R1, Gemini 2.0 Flash, and Grok-3—in answering multiple-choice questions (MCQs) in optics and refractive surgery, to assess their role [...] Read more.

This study aimed to evaluate the performance of seven advanced AI Large Language Models (LLMs)—ChatGPT 4o, ChatGPT O3 Mini, ChatGPT O1, DeepSeek V3, DeepSeek R1, Gemini 2.0 Flash, and Grok-3—in answering multiple-choice questions (MCQs) in optics and refractive surgery, to assess their role in medical education for residents. The AI models were tested using 134 publicly available MCQs from national ophthalmology certification exams, categorized by the need to perform calculations, the relevant subspecialty, and the use of images. Accuracy was analyzed and compared statistically. ChatGPT O1 achieved the highest overall accuracy (83.5%), excelling in complex optical calculations (84.1%) and optics questions (82.4%). DeepSeek V3 displayed superior accuracy in refractive surgery-related questions (89.7%), followed by ChatGPT O3 Mini (88.4%). ChatGPT O3 Mini significantly outperformed others in image analysis, with 88.2% accuracy. Moreover, ChatGPT O1 demonstrated comparable accuracy rates for both calculated and non-calculated questions (84.1% vs. 83.3%). This is in stark contrast to other models, which exhibited significant discrepancies in accuracy for calculated and non-calculated questions. The findings highlight the ability of LLMs to achieve high accuracy in ophthalmology MCQs, particularly in complex optical calculations and visual items. These results suggest potential applications in exam preparation and medical training contexts, while underscoring the need for future studies designed to directly evaluate their role and impact in medical education. The findings highlight the significant potential of AI models in ophthalmology education, particularly in performing complex optical calculations and visual stem questions. Future studies should utilize larger, multilingual datasets to confirm and extend these preliminary findings. Full article

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14 pages, 1203 KB

Open AccessArticle

Myopia Prediction Using Machine Learning: An External Validation Study

by Rajat S. Chandra, Bole Ying, Jianyong Wang, Hongguang Cui, Guishuang Ying and Julius T. Oatts

Vision 2025, 9(4), 84; https://doi.org/10.3390/vision9040084 - 9 Oct 2025

Viewed by 953

Abstract

We previously developed machine learning (ML) models for predicting cycloplegic spherical equivalent refraction (SER) and myopia using non-cycloplegic data and following a standardized protocol (cycloplegia with 0.5% tropicamide and biometry using NIDEK A-scan), but the models’ performance may not be generalizable to other [...] Read more.

We previously developed machine learning (ML) models for predicting cycloplegic spherical equivalent refraction (SER) and myopia using non-cycloplegic data and following a standardized protocol (cycloplegia with 0.5% tropicamide and biometry using NIDEK A-scan), but the models’ performance may not be generalizable to other settings. This study evaluated the performance of ML models in an independent cohort using a different cycloplegic agent and biometer. Chinese students (N = 614) aged 8–13 years underwent autorefraction before and after cycloplegia with 0.5% tropicamide (n = 505) or 1% cyclopentolate (n = 109). Biometric measures were obtained using an IOLMaster 700 (n = 207) or Optical Biometer SW-9000 (n = 407). ML models were evaluated using R², mean absolute error (MAE), sensitivity, specificity, and area under the ROC curve (AUC). The XGBoost model predicted cycloplegic SER very well (R² = 0.95, MAE (SD) = 0.32 (0.30) D). Both ML models predicted myopia well (random forest: AUC 0.99, sensitivity 93.7%, specificity 96.4%; XGBoost: sensitivity 90.1%, specificity 96.8%) and accurately predicted the myopia rate (observed 62.9%; random forest: 60.6%; XGBoost: 58.8%) despite heterogeneous cycloplegia and biometry factors. In this independent cohort of students, XGBoost and random forest performed very well for predicting cycloplegic SER and myopia status using non-cycloplegic data. This external validation study demonstrated that ML may provide a useful tool for estimating cycloplegic SER and myopia prevalence with heterogeneous clinical parameters, and study in additional populations is warranted. Full article

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17 pages, 1050 KB

Open AccessArticle

Oculomotor Training Improves Reading and Associated Cognitive Functions in Children with Learning Difficulties: A Pilot Study

by Alessio Facchin, Silvio Maffioletti, Marta Maffioletti, Gabriele Esposito, Marta Bonetti, Luisa Girelli and Roberta Daini

Vision 2025, 9(4), 83; https://doi.org/10.3390/vision9040083 - 7 Oct 2025

Viewed by 2609

Abstract

In the first years of schooling, inefficient eye movements can impair the development of reading skills. Nonetheless, the improvement of these abilities has been little investigated in children. This pilot study aimed to verify the effectiveness of Office Based Oculomotor Training (OBOT) in [...] Read more.

In the first years of schooling, inefficient eye movements can impair the development of reading skills. Nonetheless, the improvement of these abilities has been little investigated in children. This pilot study aimed to verify the effectiveness of Office Based Oculomotor Training (OBOT) in enhancing reading skills in ‘poor’ readers. Twenty-one children (aged 7–12 years) underwent an assessment of reading, visual, and perceptual abilities before and after a training of oculomotor skills (i.e., execution of saccadic movements with symbol charts in various modes and types; 14 participants) or a simple reading exercise (7 participants). The overall duration of the training was six weeks. The results showed a specific improvement, in the group subjected to oculomotor training only, not only in oculomotor abilities but also in reading, visuo-perceptual skills, and the ability to resolve crowding. These primary results suggest that the improvement of oculomotor abilities can lead to an indirect increase in reading in developmental age. Full article

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9 pages, 201 KB

Open AccessArticle

Ocular Manifestations in Pediatric Traumatic Brain Injury Admitted to the ICU: A Prospective Analysis

by Amer Jaradat, Rami Al-Dwairi, Adam Abdallah, Atef F. Hulliel, Rawhi Alshaykh, Mahmood Al Nuaimi, Ala’ Al Barbarawi, Seren Al Beiruti and Abdelwahab Aleshawi

Vision 2025, 9(4), 82; https://doi.org/10.3390/vision9040082 - 4 Oct 2025

Viewed by 773

Abstract

Background: Traumatic Brain Injury (TBI) in children is a major cause of morbidity and mortality worldwide. Ocular manifestations are common but often overlooked, despite their potential to cause long-term visual impairment. This study aimed to evaluate the prevalence and characteristics of ocular findings [...] Read more.

Background: Traumatic Brain Injury (TBI) in children is a major cause of morbidity and mortality worldwide. Ocular manifestations are common but often overlooked, despite their potential to cause long-term visual impairment. This study aimed to evaluate the prevalence and characteristics of ocular findings in pediatric TBI patients admitted to the intensive care unit (ICU). Method: We prospectively reviewed records of pediatric patients (≤16 years) with TBI admitted to the Neurosurgery ICU at King Abdullah University Hospital (January 2022–December 2024). TBI was defined using U.S. CDC criteria and confirmed by clinical and radiological findings. Ocular manifestations were identified from ophthalmology consultations, neurosurgical notes, and bedside examinations. Demographics, injury details, and clinical outcomes were recorded. Statistical analyses included Chi-square, Fisher’s exact, and Mann–Whitney U tests, with significance set at p ≤ 0.05. Results: Thirty-eight patients (median age: 8 years; 55.3% male) were included. Ocular findings were present in 20 patients (52.6%). These patients were significantly older (median age 10 vs. 6 years, p = 0.007) and had lower admission GCS scores (11 vs. 14, p = 0.016). Male predominance was higher in the ocular group (75.0% vs. 33.3%, p = 0.030). Ocular findings were significantly associated with surgical intervention (60.0% vs. 22.2%, p = 0.025), orbital fractures (40.0% vs. 5.6%, p = 0.021), basal skull fracture signs (p = 0.036), and extraocular muscle limitation (p = 0.048). On multivariable analysis, orbital fracture remained the only independent predictor of ocular findings (aOR 2.22, 95% CI 1.17–3.57, p = 0.02). Conclusion: Over half of pediatric ICU TBI patients demonstrated ocular manifestations, closely linked to greater injury severity and craniofacial trauma. Routine, comprehensive ophthalmological evaluation should be integrated into the multidisciplinary management of severe pediatric TBI to optimize visual and functional outcomes. Full article

17 pages, 1767 KB

Open AccessArticle

Too Bright to Focus? Influence of Brightness Illusions and Ambient Light Levels on the Dynamics of Ocular Accommodation

by Antonio Rodán, Angélica Fernández-López, Jesús Vera, Pedro R. Montoro, Beatriz Redondo and Antonio Prieto

Vision 2025, 9(4), 81; https://doi.org/10.3390/vision9040081 - 30 Sep 2025

Viewed by 1499

Abstract

Can brightness illusions modulate ocular accommodation? Previous studies have shown that brightness illusions can influence pupil size as if caused by actual luminance increases. However, their effects on other ocular responses—such as accommodative or focusing dynamics—remain largely unexplored. This study investigates the influence [...] Read more.

Can brightness illusions modulate ocular accommodation? Previous studies have shown that brightness illusions can influence pupil size as if caused by actual luminance increases. However, their effects on other ocular responses—such as accommodative or focusing dynamics—remain largely unexplored. This study investigates the influence of brightness illusions, under two ambient lighting conditions, on accommodative and pupillary dynamics (physiological responses), and on perceived brightness and visual comfort (subjective responses). Thirty-two young adults with healthy vision viewed four stimulus types (blue bright and non-bright, yellow bright and non-bright) under low- and high-contrast ambient lighting while ocular responses were recorded using a WAM-5500 open-field autorefractor. Brightness and comfort were rated after each session. The results showed that high ambient contrast (mesopic) and brightness illusions increased accommodative variability, while yellow stimuli elicited a greater lag under photopic condition. Pupil size decreased only under mesopic lighting. Perceived brightness was enhanced by brightness illusions and blue color, whereas visual comfort decreased for bright illusions, especially under low light. These findings suggest that ambient lighting and visual stimulus properties modulate both physiological and subjective responses, highlighting the need for dynamic accommodative assessment and visually ergonomic display design to reduce visual fatigue during digital device use. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Effects of Optical and Behavioral Factors on the Ocular Accommodation Response)

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14 pages, 428 KB

Open AccessSystematic Review

Evaluating the Clinical Validity of Commercially Available Virtual Reality Headsets for Visual Field Testing: A Systematic Review

by Jesús Vera, Alan N. Glazier, Mark T. Dunbar, Douglas Ripkin and Masoud Nafey

Vision 2025, 9(4), 80; https://doi.org/10.3390/vision9040080 - 24 Sep 2025

Viewed by 2447

Abstract

Virtual reality (VR) technology has emerged as a promising alternative to conventional perimetry for assessing visual fields. However, the clinical validity of commercially available VR-based perimetry devices remains uncertain due to variability in hardware, software, and testing protocols. A systematic review was conducted [...] Read more.

Virtual reality (VR) technology has emerged as a promising alternative to conventional perimetry for assessing visual fields. However, the clinical validity of commercially available VR-based perimetry devices remains uncertain due to variability in hardware, software, and testing protocols. A systematic review was conducted following PRISMA guidelines to evaluate the validity of VR-based perimetry compared to the Humphrey Field Analyzer (HFA). Literature searches were performed across MEDLINE, Embase, Scopus, and Web of Science. Studies were included if they assessed commercially available VR-based visual field devices in comparison to HFA and reported visual field outcomes. Devices were categorized by regulatory status (FDA, CE, or uncertified), and results were synthesized narratively. Nineteen studies were included. Devices such as Heru, Olleyes VisuALL, and the Advanced Vision Analyzer showed promising agreement with HFA metrics, especially in moderate to advanced glaucoma. However, variability in performance was observed depending on disease severity, population type, and device specifications. Limited dynamic range and lack of eye tracking were common limitations in lower-complexity devices. Pediatric validation and performance in early-stage disease were often suboptimal. Several VR-based perimetry systems demonstrate clinically acceptable validity compared to HFA, particularly in certain patient subgroups. However, broader validation, protocol standardization, and regulatory approval are essential for widespread clinical adoption. These devices may support more accessible visual field testing through telemedicine and decentralized care. Full article

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Vision, Volume 9, Issue 4 (December 2025) – 21 articles

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