The usefulness of Vistech and FACT contrast sensitivity charts for cataract and refractive surgery outcomes research

Subgroup Analysis from a Phase 1/2 Randomized Clinical Trial of 2.6% EDTA Ophthalmic Solution in Patients with Age-Related Cataract

PURPOSE

To explore the efficacy of topical 2.6% EDTA ophthalmic solution (C-KAD) as a treatment to improve visual function for the subgroup of patients with loss of contrast sensitivity (CS) due to early-stage age-related cataract.

DESIGN

Subgroup analysis of randomized, double-blinded, placebo-controlled, multicenter phase 1/2 clinical trial data.

METHODS

Both eyes of subjects in the intent-to-treat population, with mesopic CS scores between 1 and 7 grating patches (range 0-9, each patch representing 0.15 logCS), at baseline in all five frequencies, were included. The proportion of eyes with clinically significant mesopic CS improvement and mean changes in mesopic CS at spatial frequencies between 1.5 to 18 cycles per degree (cpd), and summary metrics of area under the log CS function (AULCSF), were analyzed. Other exploratory outcomes analyzed included best-corrected visual acuity (BCVA) and lens density for a smaller subgroup of eyes for which Scheimpflug images were available.

RESULTS

Forty-one subject eyes were included in the subgroup analysis (C-KAD n = 21, placebo n = 20). The primary endpoint of the proportion of eyes with mesopic CS improvements ≥ 0.30 logCS (equivalent to 100% CS improvement) in at least two of the five spatial frequencies was significantly greater for C-KAD (66.7% versus 35.0% for placebo, P = .043) at Day 120. C-KAD met the primary protocol endpoint in this subgroup analysis. The proportion of eyes achieving ≥ 0.30 logCS improvement (mesopic) as measured in AULCSF was also significantly greater for C-KAD, with 42.9% compared to 15.0% for placebo (P = .050) at Day 120. The mean change in AULCSF (mesopic) was significantly larger for C-KAD, with 0.25 logCS improvement, versus placebo with 0.06 logCS improvement (P = .020) at Day 120. C-KAD also showed significant mesopic CS improvements at spatial frequencies 3 and 6 cpd, with 0.28 logCS (P = .004) and 0.31 logCS (P = .047) versus placebo at Day 120. Positive BCVA trends and statistical significance in lens density were also observed.

CONCLUSIONS

A significant treatment effect of C-KAD in visual function and vision quality was observed consistently. These promising results suggest a novel, non-invasive pharmacological treatment to improve vision in patients with early-stage cataract.

BCLA CLEAR Presbyopia: Evaluation and diagnosis

It is important to be able to measure the range of clear focus in clinical practice to advise on presbyopia correction techniques and to optimise the correction power. Both subjective and objective techniques are necessary: subjective techniques (such as patient reported outcome questionnaires and defocus curves) assess the impact of presbyopia on a patient and how the combination of residual objective accommodation and their natural DoF work for them; objective techniques (such as autorefraction, corneal topography and lens imaging) allow the clinician to understand how well a technique is working optically and whether it is the right choice or how adjustments can be made to optimise performance. Techniques to assess visual performance and adverse effects must be carefully conducted to gain a reliable end-point, considering the target size, contrast and illumination. Objective techniques are generally more reliable, can help to explain unexpected subjective results and imaging can be a powerful communication tool with patients. A clear diagnosis, excluding factors such as binocular vision issues or digital eye strain that can also cause similar symptoms, is critical for the patient to understand and adapt to presbyopia. Some corrective options are more permanent, such as implanted inlays / intraocular lenses or laser refractive surgery, so the optics can be trialled with contact lenses in advance (including differences between the eyes) to better communicate with the patient how the optics will work for them so they can make an informed choice.

Morphological and Functional Correlations in Acute Central Serous Chorioretinopathy

PURPOSE

We evaluate morphological and functional correlations in patients with acute central serous chorioretinopathy (CSC).

METHODS

A prospective study was conducted on 50 patients with an acute CSC episode lasting less than 3 months. At baseline, assessments included optical coherence tomography (OCT), best-corrected visual acuity (BCVA), contrast sensitivity (CS), microperimetry (MP), and multifocal electroretinography (mfERG). A correlation analysis between OCT morphological parameters (maximal subretinal fluid height (SRF), central retinal thickness (CRT), and macular volume (MV)) and functional parameters was conducted on the affected eye for each patient.

RESULTS

Among the morphological parameters, SRF showed the strongest correlations with functional parameters (r absolute value range = 0.10-0.70). Weak correlations were observed between BCVA and morphological parameters (r absolute value range = 0.14-0.26). Average retinal sensitivity (MP-A) was the functional parameter displaying the most robust negative correlation with morphological parameters (r absolute value range = 0.61-0.70). In contrast, average contrast sensitivity (CS-A) and mfERG average amplitude density in the first (mfERG-A1) and second (mfERG-A2) ring showed weak to moderate (r absolute value range = 0.35-0.56) yet statistically significantly nonzero correlations.

CONCLUSIONS

SRF and CRT could serve as the most representative morphological proxies for visual function deficit in acute CSC patients. Retinal sensitivity, as measured by MP, may be superior to BCVA in clinical research studies or when an in-depth visual function evaluation is needed.

Contrast sensitivity and comfort levels with different types of polarised glasses under steady glare

The influence of various polarised glasses on visual performance is crucial due to their widespread. This study measured the visual contrast sensitivity (CS) of dominant eyes by quick contrast sensitivity function (qCSF) procedure at 10 spatial frequencies and 3 noise levels under nonglare, steady glare, steady glare with night lenses, and steady glare with day&night lenses, respectively. Later, the second experiment measured the subjects' subjective feelings under these four viewing conditions. The results showed that there was no significant difference in the CS between the two conditions with polarised glasses and the steady glare. However, the subjects reported greater comfort with glasses than without them. These results suggest that there was an underlying bias when people rated the polarised glasses, and the qCSF procedure was a useful tool for evaluating visual performance.

Extended just-noticeable difference for ultralow-luminance displays used in diagnostic imaging

This study investigates the just-noticeable difference (JND) in luminance below the 0.050c d/m 2 threshold not covered by the DICOM standard in medical imaging displays. A total of 21 healthy young adults were tested using an ultralow-luminance liquid crystal display at a viewing distance of 46 cm. The optotype featured a 4 cycle/deg rectangular wave-like stripe. The average percentage of correct responses for JND indices between -18 and 0 was 70.8%. Using the extended JND based on the Barten model that matches the current JND definition, we confirmed the JND at a very low luminance of 0.0500c d/m 2 or less. These findings suggest the feasibility of further refining the gradation differences in medical imaging displays.

Test-retest repeatability and agreement of the quantitative contrast sensitivity function test: towards the validation of a new clinical endpoint

PURPOSE

The purpose of this study is to investigate test-retest reliability and agreement of the quantitative contrast sensitivity function test (qCSF) in the retina clinic.

METHODS

A total of 121 right eyes of 121 patients were tested and consecutively re-tested with qCSF in the retina clinic. Outcomes included area under the logarithm of contrast sensitivity function curve (AULCSF), contrast acuity, and contrast sensitivity thresholds at 1-18 cycles per degree (cpd). Test-retest means were compared with paired t-test, variability was compared with the Brown-Forsythe test, and intraclass correlation coefficient (ICC) and Bland Altman plots evaluated reliability and agreement.

RESULTS

Mean test-retest differences for all qCSF metrics ranged from 0.02 to 0.05 log units without statistically significant differences in variability. Standard deviations ranged from 0.08 to 0.14. Coefficients of repeatability ranged from 0.16 to 0.27 log units. ICC > 0.9 for all metrics except 1cpd (ICC = 0.84, all p < 0.001); AULCSF ICC = 0.971.

CONCLUSION

qCSF-measured contrast sensitivity shows great test-retest repeatability and agreement in the retina clinic.

Contrast sensitivity function under three light conditions in patients with type 1 diabetes mellitus without retinopathy: a cross-sectional, case-control study

PURPOSE

To determine whether patients with type 1 diabetes mellitus (T1DM), without any sign of diabetic retinopathy, have any alteration in Contrast Sensitivity Function (CSF), in relation to patients without this disease, and whether CSF assessment in three different light conditions can be an effective test in the early detection of diabetic retinopathy.

METHODS

A prospective, cross-sectional, case-control study was preformed including 80 patients (40 with T1DM without diabetic retinopathy and 40 controls) between 11 and 47 years old. CSF was assessed at four spatial frequencies (3, 6, 12 and 18 cycles/degree) using the CSV-1000E test, under three light conditions: high (550 lx), medium (200 lx) and low (< 2 lx).

RESULTS

A lower CSF in the T1DM group was found at the three light conditions studied. The most spatial frequency affected was 18 cpd, 0.08 log units (p = 0.048) in high, 0.10 log units (p = 0.010) in medium (p = 0.010) and 0.16 log units (p < 0.001) in low-light conditions in mean CS values. The least spatial frequency affected was 3 cpd (p > 0.05 in all three light conditions).

CONCLUSION

Patients with T1DM, without diabetic retinopathy, presented a loss of CS to sine-wave gratings, with respect to people with the same characteristics without the disease, mainly at medium and high frequencies, and in medium and low-light conditions.

Spherical aberrations and their role in modern ophthalmology

Spherical aberration is an imperfection of the optical system of the human eye. The role of spherical aberration of the human eye in the quality of vision and pseudoaccommodation is reviewed. Spherical aberration is an imperfection of the optical system of the human eye. In most cases, due to well-developed neuroadaptation, it is insignificant for the perception of the image. Nevertheless, its role in modern ophthalmology is far from straightforward. On the one hand, there are clinical scenarios in which an excess of spherical aberration degrades the retinal image and leads to a high dissatisfaction rate among patients.©Recently, there is a growing interest in the modulation of spherical aberration in the clinical setting. Modern intraocular lenses as well as laser refractive procedures are aimed at interfering with spherical aberrations of the optical system in order to increase range of pseudoaccommodation. Here, we review the role of spherical aberration of the human eye in the quality of vision and pseudoaccommodation.

Trifocal intraocular lenses versus bifocal intraocular lenses after cataract extraction among participants with presbyopia

BACKGROUND

Presbyopia occurs when the lens of the eyes loses its elasticity leading to loss of accommodation. The lens may also progress to develop cataract, affecting visual acuity and contrast sensitivity. One option of care for individuals with presbyopia and cataract is the use of multifocal or extended depth of focus intraocular lens (IOL) after cataract surgery. Although trifocal and bifocal IOLs are designed to restore three and two focal points respectively, trifocal lens may be preferable because it restores near, intermediate, and far vision, and may also provide a greater range of useful vision and allow for greater spectacle independence in individuals with presbyopia.

OBJECTIVES

To assess the effectiveness and safety of implantation with trifocal versus bifocal IOLs during cataract surgery among people with presbyopia.

SEARCH METHODS

We searched the Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials (CENTRAL) (which contains the Cochrane Eyes and Vision Trials Register) (2022, Issue 3); Ovid MEDLINE; Embase.com; PubMed; ClinicalTrials.gov; and the World Health Organization (WHO) International Clinical Trials Registry Platform (ICTRP). We did not use any date or language restrictions in the electronic search for trials. We last searched the electronic databases on 31 March 2022.  SELECTION CRITERIA: We included randomized controlled trials that compared trifocal and bifocal IOLs among participants 30 years of age or older with presbyopia undergoing cataract surgery.

DATA COLLECTION AND ANALYSIS

We used standard Cochrane methodology and graded the certainty of the body of evidence according to the GRADE classification.

MAIN RESULTS

We identified seven studies conducted in Europe and Turkey with a total of 331 participants. All included studies assessed visual acuity using a logarithm of the minimum angle of resolution (LogMAR chart). Of them, six (86%) studies assessed uncorrected distance visual acuity (the primary outcome of this review). Some studies also examined our secondary outcomes including uncorrected near, intermediate, and best-corrected distance visual acuity, as well as contrast sensitivity. Study characteristics All participants had bilateral cataracts with no pre-existing ocular pathologies or ocular surgery. Participants' mean age ranged from 55 to 74 years. Three studies reported on gender of participants, and they were mostly women. We assessed all of the included studies as being at unclear risk of bias for most domains. Two studies received financial support from manufacturers of lenses evaluated in this review, and at least one author of another study reported receiving payments for delivering lectures with lens manufacturers. Findings All studies compared trifocal versus bifocal IOL implantation on visual acuity outcomes measured on a LogMAR scale. At one year, trifocal IOL showed no evidence of effect on uncorrected distance visual acuity (mean difference (MD) 0.00, 95% confidence interval (CI) -0.04 to 0.04; I2 = 0%; 2 studies, 107 participants; low-certainty evidence) and uncorrected near visual acuity (MD 0.01, 95% CI -0.04 to 0.06; I2 = 0%; 2 studies, 107 participants; low-certainty evidence). Trifocal IOL implantation may improve uncorrected intermediate visual acuity at one year (MD -0.16, 95% CI -0.22 to -0.10; I2 = 0%; 2 studies, 107 participants; low-certainty evidence), but showed no evidence of effect on best-corrected distance visual acuity at one year (MD 0.00, 95% CI -0.03 to 0.04; I2 = 0%; 2 studies, 107 participants; low-certainty evidence). No study reported on contrast sensitivity or quality of life at one-year follow-up. Data from one study at three months suggest that contrast sensitivity did not differ between groups under photopic conditions, but may be worse in the trifocal group in one of the four frequencies under mesopic conditions (MD -0.19, 95% CI -0.33 to -0.05; 1 study; I2 = 0%, 25 participants; low-certainty evidence). One study examined vision-related quality of life using the 25-item National Eye Institute Visual Function Questionnaire (NEI-VFQ-25) at six months, and suggested no evidence of a difference between trifocal and bifocal IOLs (MD 1.41, 95% CI -1.78 to 4.60; 1 study, 40 participants; low-certainty evidence). Adverse events Adverse events reporting varied among studies. Of five studies reporting information on adverse events, two studies observed no intraoperative and postoperative complications or no posterior capsular opacification at six months. One study reported that glare and halos were similar to the preoperative measurements. One study reported that 4 (20%) and 10 (50%) participants had glare complaints at 6 months in trifocal and bifocal group, respectively (risk ratio 0.40, 95% CI 0.15 to 1.07; 40 participants). One study reported that four eyes (11.4%) in the bifocal group and three eyes (7.5%) in the trifocal group developed significant posterior capsular opacification requiring YAG capsulotomy at one year. The certainty of the evidence for adverse events was low.

AUTHORS' CONCLUSIONS

We found low-certainty of evidence that compared with bifocal IOL, implantation of trifocal IOL may improve uncorrected intermediate visual acuity at one year. However, there was no evidence of a difference between trifocal and bifocal IOL for uncorrected distance visual acuity, uncorrected near visual acuity, and best-corrected visual acuity at one year. Future research should include the comparison of both trifocal IOL and specific bifocal IOLs that correct intermediate visual acuity to evaluate important outcomes such as contrast sensitivity, quality of life, and vision-related adverse effects.

Tolerance to lens tilt and decentration of two multifocal intraocular lenses: using the quick contrast sensitivity function method

BACKGROUND

Quick contrast sensitivity function (qCSF) method is an advanced quick method for contrast sensitivity function (CSF) evaluation. This study evaluated the contrast sensitivity (CS) of eyes undergoing cataract surgery with multifocal intraocular lens (IOL) implantation and its tolerance to IOL tilt and IOL decentration using the qCSF method.

METHODS

Patients undergoing uneventful phacoemulsification and a trifocal IOL (Zeiss AT LISA tri 839MP, Carl Zeiss, Germany) or an extended depth-of-focus (EDOF) IOL (Tecnis Symfony ZXR00, Johnson & Johnsons, USA) implantation were included. Monocular contrast sensitivity was measured using the qCSF method at one month post-surgery. IOL tilt and decentration were measured using an optical aberrometer (OPD-Scan III, NIDEK, Japan).

RESULTS

Seventy-two patients/eyes with the 839MP IOL and 64 patients/eyes with the ZXR00 IOL were included. Area under the log CSF (AULCSF) and CS acuity did not differ significantly between the two groups. The ZXR00 IOL group showed better CS at 1 cpd (1.137 ± 0.164 vs. 1.030 ± 0.183 logCS) and 1.5 cpd (1.163 ± 0.163 vs. 1.071 ± 0.161 logCS), while the 839MP IOL group had better CS at 6 cpd (0.855 ± 0.187 vs. 0.735 ± 0.363 logCS). In the 839MP IOL group, all CSF metrics were negatively correlated with IOL tilt (all P < 0.05), while in the ZXR00 IOL group, the CS at 3 cpd had no significant correlation with IOL tilt (P > 0.05). Among myopic eyes, fewer CSF metrics were negatively correlated with IOL tilt in the ZXR00 IOL group than in the 839MP IOL group. No significant correlation was found between CSF metrics and IOL decentration.

CONCLUSIONS

The ZXR00 and the 839MP IOL groups presented comparable CSF. CS was negatively correlated with IOL tilt, instead of decentration in multifocal IOLs, particularly among myopic eyes. The ZXR00 IOL had better tolerance to IOL tilt in myopic eyes.

A randomized phase 2 clinical trial of phentolamine mesylate eye drops in patients with severe night vision disturbances

PURPOSE

Dim light vision disturbances (DLD) comprise a wide range of symptoms affecting the quality of vision at low illumination including glare, halos, and starbursts. This exploratory study investigated 1.0% phentolamine mesylate ophthalmic solution (PMOS) as a treatment to improve vision and image quality for patients with DLD.

METHODS

In this placebo-controlled, randomized, double-masked clinical trial, 24 adult patients with severe DLD were randomized in a 2:1 ratio to receive either one dose of PMOS or placebo. Subjects were eligible if they reported experiencing severe night vision difficulty that was not eliminated by distance spectacle correction and scored ≥0.3 log units below the normal range of contrast sensitivity assessed under mesopic conditions with glare at ≥2 spatial frequencies. Key efficacy outcomes were change from baseline in pupil diameter, contrast sensitivity, and visual acuity. Safety measures including intraocular pressure, conjunctival hyperemia, and systemic effects were also assessed.

RESULTS

Eight subjects were randomized to placebo (63% female; mean age 47 years) and 16 were randomized to PMOS (75% female; mean age 42 years). Mean (SD) pupil diameter of PMOS-treated subjects decreased significantly - 1.3 mm (0 to - 2.8 mm) with p < 0.0001. Mean contrast sensitivity with glare in PMOS-treated subjects improved significantly post-treatment at spatial frequencies 3, 6, 12, and 18 cycles per degree (p ≤ 0.03). PMOS also demonstrated improvements in the numbers of letters read for mesopic and photopic, high- and low-contrast visual acuity (LCVA). Importantly, a statistically greater proportion of PMOS-treated eyes registered mesopic LCVA 5 letter (69% vs. 31%, p = 0.029) and 10 letter (34% vs. 6%, p = 0.04) improvement, with a trend at 15 letters (19% vs. 0%, p = 0.16). PMOS was well tolerated with the only reported side effect being a mild increase in conjunctival hyperemia.

CONCLUSION

PMOS was well tolerated and effectively reduced pupil size with improvements in contrast sensitivity and visual acuity in adults with severe DLD. Future Phase 3 studies should be conducted to further evaluate its potential to treat DLD.

TRIAL REGISTRATION

The trial registration number is NCT04004507 (02/07/2019). Retrospectively registered.

Active Learning to Characterize the Full Contrast Sensitivity Function in Cataracts

Background

To characterize contrast sensitivity function (CSF) in cataractous and pseudophakic eyes compared to healthy control eyes using a novel quantitative CSF test with active learning algorithms.

Methods

This is a prospective observational study at an academic medical center. CSF was measured in eyes with visually significant cataract, at least 2+ nuclear sclerosis (NS) and visual acuity (VA) ≥ 20/50, in pseudophakic eyes and in healthy controls with no more than 1+ NS and no visual complaints, using the Manifold Contrast Vision Meter. Outcomes included Area under the Log CSF (AULCSF) and CS thresholds at 1, 1.5, 3, 6, 12, and 18 cycles per degree (cpd). A subgroup analysis as performed on cataract eyes with VA ≥ 20/25.

Results

A total of 167 eyes were included, 58 eyes in the cataract group, 77 controls, and 32 pseudophakic eyes with respective median AULCSF of 1.053 (0.352) vs 1.228 (0.318) vs 1.256 (0.360). In our multivariate regression model, cataract was associated with significantly reduced AULCSF (P= 0.04, β= −0.11) and contrast threshold at 6 cpd (P= 0.01, β= −0.16) compared to controls. Contrast threshold at 6 cpd was significantly reduced even in the subgroup of cataractous eyes with VA ≥ 20/25 (P=0.02, β=−0.16).

Conclusion

The novel qCSF test detected disproportionate significant contrast deficits at 6 cpd in cataract eyes; this remained significant even in the cataractous eyes with VA ≥ 20/25. CSF testing may enhance cataract evaluation and surgical decision-making, particularly in patients with subjective visual complaints despite good VA.

Short-term tear film stability, optical quality and visual performance in two dual-focus contact lenses for myopia control with different optical designs

Purpose

To assess and compare short‐term visual and optical quality and tear film stability between two dual‐focus (DF) prototype myopia control contact lenses (CLs) having different inner zone diameters.

Methods

Twenty‐eight myopic subjects were included in this randomised, double‐masked crossover study. Refraction, best‐corrected visual acuity (VA) and tear film stability were measured at baseline (i.e., when uncorrected). Subjects were then binocularly fitted with the DF CLs, with only the sensorial dominant eye being assessed. Lenses were of the same material and had inner zone diameters of either 2.1 mm (S design) or 4.0 mm (M design). Visual and physical short‐term lens comfort, over‐refraction, best‐corrected VA, stereopsis at 40 cm, best‐corrected photopic and mesopic contrast sensitivity (CS), size and shape of light disturbance (LD), wavefront aberrations, subjective quality of vision (QoV Questionnaire) and tear film stability were measured for each lens.

Results

Both CL designs decreased tear film stability compared with baseline (p < 0.05). VA and photopic CS were within normal values for the subjects' age with each CL. When comparing lenses, the M design promoted better photopic CS for the 18 cycles per degree spatial frequency (p < 0.001) and better LD (p < 0.02). However, higher‐order aberrations were improved with the S design (p = 0.02). No significant difference between the two CLs was found for QoV scores and tear film stability.

Conclusions

Both DF CLs provided acceptable visual performance under photopic conditions. The 4.0 mm inner zone gave better contrast sensitivity at high frequencies and lower light disturbance, while the 2.1 mm central diameter induced fewer higher‐order aberrations for a 5 mm pupil diameter. Both CLs produced the same subjective visual short‐term lens comfort.

Quantitative contrast sensitivity test to assess visual function in central serous chorioretinopathy

BACKGROUND

To characterise the contrast sensitivity function (CSF) in central serous chorioretinopathy (CSCR) compared with healthy controls using novel computerised contrast sensitivity (CS) testing with active learning algorithms.

METHODS

Prospective observational study measuring CSF in CSCR eyes and controls using the Manifold Platform (Adaptive Sensory Technology, San Diego, California). Mixed effects multivariate regression models were used. Outcomes included area under the log CSF (AULCSF), CS thresholds at 1, 1.5, 3, 12 and 18 cycles per degree (cpd) and best-corrected visual acuity (BCVA). Associations of contrast outcomes with structural findings on optical coherence tomography (OCT) and subjective symptomatology were investigated.

RESULTS

Forty CSCR eyes and 89 controls were included with median BCVA logarithm of median angle of resolution 0.10 (20/25) versus 0.00 (20/20), respectively (p=0.01). When accounting for age, CSCR was associated with significantly reduced median AULCSF (p=0.02, β=-0.14) and reduced CS thresholds at 6 cpd (p=0.009, β=-0.18), 12 cpd (p<0.001, β=-0.23) and 18 cpd (p=0.04, β=-0.09), versus controls. Within the CSCR group, subjectively perceived visual impairment (N=22) was associated with significantly decreased CS thresholds at all spatial frequencies and in AULCSF compared with asymptomatic CSCR eyes (N=18). Ellipsoid zone attenuation and subfoveal fluid on OCT were associated with decreased AULCSF and CS thresholds specifically at 3, 6 and 12 cpd, whereas presence of extrafoveal fluid at 1.5 and 3 cpd.

CONCLUSION

Contrast sensitivity is significantly reduced in CSCR, and strongly correlates with subjective visual impairment. Different structural biomarkers correlate with contrast thresholds reductions at different spatial frequencies.

Comparison of Two Different Contrast Sensitivity Testing Methods in Patients with Low Vision

Purpose:

To assess the agreement between two different contrast testing modalities using the index of contrast sensitivity (ICS) in patients with low vision.

Methods:

Thirty-eight patients with low vision were included in the study. Contrast sensitivity (CS) was measured binocularly with both the Vector vision-standardized CS test (CSV-1000E, Vector Vision Co, Greenville, Ohio, USA) and the MonPack 3 (Metrovision, France) after refractive correction for each participant. Based on the data from the two tests, the ICS was calculated. The Bland–Altman technique was used to evaluate the agreement between ICSs obtained from different test methods.

Results:

Range of best corrected visual acuity was 0.50–1.00 logMAR. According to the median logCS values, CS values were highest at 3 cycles per degree (cpd) for the CSV-1000E test and at 1.5 cpd for the Metrovision MonPack 3 test. The median ICS for CSV-1000E was −0.22 (95^th percentile 4.75), and the median ICS for Metrovision MonPack 3 was 0.08 (95^th percentile 1.65). The mean difference was 0.655 (between −3.82 and 5.13) within limits of agreement (LoA). The difference and mean values between the two CS test measurements were found to be within LoA range.

Conclusions:

An agreement was found between the Metrovision MonPack 3 test and the standard CSV-1000E test results in patients with visual impairment. However, the agreement range was within very wide limits. Therefore, it was thought that they may not be used interchangeability in clinical practice.

Hierarchical Bayesian modeling of contrast sensitivity functions in a within-subject design

Recent development of the quick contrast sensitivity function (qCSF) method has made it possible to obtain accurate, precise, and efficient contrast sensitivity function (CSF) assessment. To improve statistical inference on CSF changes in a within-subject design, we developed a hierarchical Bayesian model (HBM) to compute the joint distribution of CSF parameters and hyperparameters at test, subject, and population levels, utilizing information within- and between-subjects and experimental conditions. We evaluated the performance of the HBM relative to a non-hierarchical Bayesian inference procedure (BIP) on an existing CSF dataset of 112 subjects obtained with the qCSF method in three luminance conditions (Hou, Lesmes, Kim, Gu, Pitt, Myung, & Lu, 2016). We found that the average d's of the area under log CSF (AULCSF) and CSF parameters between pairs of luminance conditions at the test-level from the HBM were 33.5% and 103.3% greater than those from the BIP analysis of AULCSF. The increased d' resulted in greater statistical differences between experimental conditions across subjects. In addition, simulations showed that the HBM generated accurate and precise CSF parameter estimates. These results have strong implications for the application of HBM in clinical trials and patient care.

Measuring Contrast Sensitivity Function With Active Learning in Retinal Vein Occlusion: A New Endpoint of Visual Function

BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVE

To characterize contrast sensitivity function (CSF) in patients with retinal vein occlusion (RVO) compared to age-matched controls using novel computerized contrast sensitivity (CS) testing with active learning algorithms.

PATIENTS AND METHODS

CSF was prospectively measured in RVO patients with visual acuity (VA) greater than 20/200 and age-matched controls using the novel Manifold Contrast Vision Meter implementing quantitative CSF testing. Outcomes included area under the Log CSF (AULCSF), contrast acuity (CA), and CS thresholds at 1, 1.5, 3, 12, and 18 cycles per degree (cpd). A sub-analysis was performed on RVO eyes with good acuity (VA ≥ 20/30).

RESULTS

Twenty-two eyes with RVO and 63 control eyes were included. Mean AULCSF (± standard deviation) in RVO eyes was 0.817 (0.28) compared to 1.217 (0.28) in controls (P < .0001). Mean contrast acuity in the RVO group was 1.054 (0.19) versus 1.286 ± 0.16 in controls (P < .0001). For individual spatial frequencies, CS loss at 6.0 cpd was most prominent in the RVO group. In 10 RVO eyes with VA of 20/30 or greater, mean AULCSF was 0.978 versus 1.217 in control eyes. (P = .008).

CONCLUSIONS

CSF in eyes with RVO was found to be significantly reduced compared to age-matched controls. CSF seems to be a promising visual function endpoint with potential applications in clinical practice and future clinical trials. [Ophthalmic Surg Lasers Imaging Retina. 2020;51:392-400.].

Active Learning of Contrast Sensitivity to Assess Visual Function in Macula-off Retinal Detachment

PURPOSE

To characterize the contrast sensitivity function (CSF) in patients with successful repair of macula-off rhegmatogenous retinal detachment (RD) using an adaptive computerized contrast testing device.

METHODS

CSF was prospectively measured in macula-off RD patients following successful repair and age-matched controls at W. K. Kellogg Eye Center and Massachusetts Eye and Ear, employing the active learning device Manifold Contrast Vision Meter (Adaptive Sensory Technology, San Diego, CA). Outcome measures included average area under the CSF curve (AULCSF), CS thresholds at 1-18 cycles per degree (cpd) and best correctd visual acuity (BCVA) in RD eyes fellow eyes and controls. A sub-analysis was performed in eyes with BCVA of 20/30 or better.

RESULTS

Twenty-three macula-off RD eyes status post repair, fellow healthy eyes and 45 age-matched control eyes underwent CSF testing. The mean BCVA of the 23 RD eyes was 0.250 logMAR, significantly reduced compared to fellow eyes 0.032 (p<0.001) and controls 0.026 (p< 0.00001). There was a statistically significant reduction in AULCSF in RD eyes compared to the fellow eyes (p<0.0001) and to age-matched controls (Z-score -0.90, p<0.0001) and CSF reduction across all spatial frequencies. In the 15 RD eyes with BCVA of 20/30 or better, the mean CSF was significantly reduced compared to fellow eyes (p=0.0158) and controls (p=0.0453).

CONCLUSIONS

CSF in macula-off RD eyes following repair was significantly reduced compared to fellow eyes and age-matched controls. CSF seems to be a promising visual function endpoint with potential applications in the clinical practice and future clinical trials.

Evaluating Contrast Sensitivity in Asian Indian Pre-Term Infants With and Without Retinopathy of Prematurity

Purpose

The purpose of this study was to evaluate the contrast threshold in Asian Indian preterm infants with and without retinopathy of prematurity (ROP) using Newborn Contrast Cards measured during the first ROP screening and to correlate with final outcome and visual acuity at 3 months of corrected age.

Methods

Preterm infants born ≤ 2000 grams birth weight (BW) and/or ≤ 34 weeks gestational age (GA) undergoing ROP screening were enrolled prospectively. Visual acuity was recorded using Teller Acuity Cards. Contrast threshold was measured with Newborn Contrast Cards at first screening visit and at the end of ROP screening at 40 weeks of postmenstrual age or older.

Results

Of the 173 study infants, 134 (77.5%) did not have any stage of ROP. Of the remaining 39 (22.5%), 34 (87%) had type 2 ROP and 5 (13%) had type 1 ROP requiring treatment. The mean contrast threshold at the first visit of the no ROP type 1 and type 2 groups was 0.36 ± 0.07, 0.65 ± 0.19, and 0.46 ± 0.09, respectively (P < 0.001). Contrast threshold had a significant correlation with BW (R = −0.291, P = < 0.001) and gestational age (R = −0.47, P = < 0.001). The contrast threshold at the first visit correlated with visual acuity measured at 3 months of corrected age in logMAR (R = 0.36, P = 0.01). Other than BW and GA, no other systemic risk factors correlated with contrast threshold measured at the first screening visit.

Conclusions

Newborn Contrast Cards are a viable tool to test contrast threshold in preterm infants. The association between contrast threshold and ROP, and its correlation with visual acuity, suggest that contrast threshold measurement may help predict the clinical vision outcome among prematurely born infants.

Translational Relevance

Contrast threshold measurement may prove to be a useful tool in the estimation of visual potential in preterm infants.

Measuring the Contrast Sensitivity Function in Non-Neovascular and Neovascular Age-Related Macular Degeneration: The Quantitative Contrast Sensitivity Function Test

Age-related macular degeneration (AMD) affects various aspects of visual function compromising patients' functional vision and quality of life. Compared to visual acuity, contrast sensitivity correlates better with vision-related quality of life and subjectively perceived visual impairment. It may also be affected earlier in the course of AMD than visual acuity. However, lengthy testing times, coarse sampling and resolution, and poor test-retest reliability of the existing contrast testing methods have limited its widespread adoption into routine clinical practice. Using active learning principles, the qCSF can efficiently measure contrast sensitivity across multiple spatial frequencies with both high sensitivity in detecting subtle changes in visual function and robust test-retest reliability, emerging as a promising visual function endpoint in AMD both in clinical practice and future clinical trials.

Quality of Vision Following LASIK and PRK-MMC for Treatment of Myopia

INTRODUCTION

Femtosecond-assisted thin flap, laser-assisted in situ keratomileusis (LASIK) and photorefractive keratectomy with mitomycin-C (PRK-MMC) are the two most common refractive surgical procedures used to enhance visual capability in the U.S military. The purposes of the study were to examine effects on quality of vision following LASIK and PRK-MMC using a novel computer-based quick contrast sensitivity function (qCSF) test.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

This prospective clinical study included 58 active duty U.S. military service members who elected LASIK (n = 29) or PRK-MMC (n = 29) refractive surgery for myopia (nearsightedness) treatment. Monocular photopic and mesopic quality of vision of the right eyes in spectacle correction preoperatively and unaided right eyes at four postoperative follow-up visits (1 week, 2 weeks, 1 month, and 3 months) were examined using the qCSF device. Two qCSF parameters, area under a log CSF (AULCSF) between 1.5 and 18 cycles per degree, and CSF cutoff acuity (CSF Acuity), were collected using a 50-trial setting at a 4-m testing distance. General linear model (GLM) Repeated-measures Analysis of Covariance was used to examine effects on quality of vision following LASIK and PRK-MMC. Post hoc testing with Bonferroni correction was used for pairwise comparisons, and preoperative cylinder refraction was used as a covariate. Two-tailed independent t-test was used to compare preoperative and postoperative parameters between LASIK and PRK-MMC. Pearson's correlation, Bland-Altman plots, and multiple linear regression were used to examine the relationship among the qCSF and other vision tests.

RESULTS

Quality of vision, AULCSF, and CSF Acuity returned to the preoperative baseline at postoperative 2 weeks under mesopic condition and at postoperative 1 month under photopic condition after PRK-MMC. In comparison, photopic and mesopic quality of vision were not significantly different from the baseline at any of the four postoperative visits following LASIK. Changes of CSF Acuity from the baseline after LASIK were significantly better under photopic than mesopic condition by 0.067 ± 0.014 logarithm of the minimum angle of resolution (logMAR); P < .001). Quality of vision was not significantly different between the LASIK and PRK-MMC groups at postoperative 1 and 3 months. When predicting photopic AULCSF (overall model fit R2 = 0.47), 5% contrast acuity (beta = -0.43), visual acuity in 100% contrast (beta = -0.18), and residual refraction in spherical equivalent (beta = 0.20) were significant predictors (P ≤ .001), while high-order aberrations (beta = -0.07, P = .22) were not significant predictors. Visual acuity (beta = -0.12, P = .07) and high-order aberrations (beta = -0.04, P = .58) were not significant predictors of mesopic AULCSF. Bland-Altman plots show that photopic CSF Acuity and visual acuity had a mean difference of 0.19 ± 0.01 logMAR with limits of agreement (LOAs) at -0.01 and 0.39 logMAR. Photopic CSF Acuity and 5% contrast acuity had a mean difference of -0.06 ± 0.01 logMAR with LOAs at -0.33 and 0.21 logMAR.

CONCLUSION

Quality of vision recovers at postoperative 1 week after LASIK and at postoperative 1 month after PRK-MMC. The standard black-on-white high-contrast, chart-based visual acuity test is weak in predicting quality of vision. The qCSF detects mild-to-moderate visual changes and is suitable for quality of vision assessment following refractive eye surgery.

Disorganisation of retinal inner layers is associated with reduced contrast sensitivity in retinal vein occlusion

BACKGROUND/AIMS

To determine if disorganisation of retinal inner layers (DRIL) is associated with reduced contrast sensitivity (CS) in patients with retinal vein occlusion (RVO) with a history of macular oedema (ME).

METHODS

Prospective, observational cohort study. Patients with a history of ME secondary to central retinal vein occlusion (CRVO) or branch retinal vein occlusion (BRVO) from October 2017 to July 2019 at a single institution were included. Patients underwent complete ophthalmic examination, spectral domain optical coherence tomography (SD-OCT) and CS testing using the quick contrast sensitivity function (qCSF) method. Eyes with coexisting macular disease were excluded. SD-OCT images were analysed for presence and extent of DRIL, intraretinal fluid (IRF), subretinal fluid (SRF), hyperreflective foci, epiretinal membrane (ERM), external limiting membrane (ELM) disruption, ellipsoid zone (EZ) disruption, central macular thickness (CMT) and central foveal thickness (CFT). Multivariable mixed-effect linear regressions were performed for the area under the log contrast sensitivity function (AULCSF) using Stata (StataCorp). P values <0.05 were considered significant.

RESULTS

58 visits from 31 patients were included (1.9±1.2 visits per patient). 29 (50%) were for CRVO. The average age was 63.9±10.5 years. On multivariable analysis, DRIL extent (p<0.001), CMT (p=0.007), CFT (p=0.024) and moderate cataract (p=0.001) were significantly associated with worse AULCSF.

CONCLUSIONS

DRIL extent is associated with reduced CS in eyes with ME secondary to RVO. DRIL is an imaging feature that has important implications for visual function.

Trifocal intraocular lenses versus bifocal intraocular lenses after cataract extraction among participants with presbyopia

BACKGROUND

Presbyopia occurs when the lens of the eyes loses its elasticity leading to loss of accommodation. The lens may also progress to develop cataract, affecting visual acuity and contrast sensitivity. One option of care for individuals with presbyopia and cataract is the use of multifocal or extended depth of focus intraocular lens (IOL) after cataract surgery. Although trifocal and bifocal IOLs are designed to restore three and two focal points respectively, trifocal lens may be preferable because it restores near, intermediate, and far vision, and may also provide a greater range of useful vision and allow for greater spectacle independence in individuals with presbyopia.

OBJECTIVES

To assess the effectiveness and safety of implantation with trifocal versus bifocal IOLs during cataract surgery among participants with presbyopia.

SEARCH METHODS

We searched the Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials (CENTRAL) (which contains the Cochrane Eyes and Vision Trials Register) (2019, Issue 9); Ovid MEDLINE; Embase.com; PubMed; ClinicalTrials.gov; and the World Health Organization (WHO) International Clinical Trials Registry Platform (ICTRP). We did not use any date or language restrictions in the electronic search for trials. We last searched the electronic databases on 26 September 2019. We searched the reference lists of the retrieved articles and the abstracts from the Annual Meeting of the Association for Research in Vision and Ophthalmology (ARVO) for the years 2005 to 2015.

SELECTION CRITERIA

We included randomized controlled trials that compared trifocal and bifocal IOLs among participants 30 years or older with presbyopia undergoing cataract surgery.

DATA COLLECTION AND ANALYSIS

We used standard Cochrane methodology.

MAIN RESULTS

We identified five studies conducted in Europe with a total of 175 participants. All five studies assessed uncorrected distance visual acuity (primary outcome of the review), while some also examined our secondary outcomes including uncorrected near, intermediate, and best-corrected distance visual acuity, as well as contrast sensitivity. Study characteristics All participants had bilateral cataracts with no pre-existing ocular pathologies or ocular surgery. Participants' mean age ranged from 58 to 64 years. Only one study reported on gender of participants, and they were mostly women. We assessed all the included studies as being at unclear risk of bias for most domains. Two studies received financial support from manufacturers of lenses evaluated in this review, and at least one author of another study reported receiving payments for delivering lectures with lens manufacturers. Findings All studies compared trifocal versus bifocal IOL implantation on visual acuity outcomes measured on a LogMAR scale. At one year, trifocal IOL showed no evidence of effect on uncorrected distance visual acuity (mean difference (MD) 0.00, 95% confidence interval (CI) -0.04 to 0.04; I² = 0%; 2 studies, 107 participants; low-certainty evidence) and uncorrected near visual acuity (MD 0.01, 95% CI -0.04 to 0.06; I² = 0%; 2 studies, 107 participants; low-certainty evidence). Trifocal IOL implantation may improve uncorrected intermediate visual acuity at one year (MD -0.16, 95% CI -0.22 to -0.10; I²= 0%; 2 studies, 107 participants; low-certainty evidence), but showed no evidence of effect on best-corrected distance visual acuity at one year (MD 0.00, 95% CI -0.03 to 0.04; I²= 0%; 2 studies, 107 participants; low-certainty evidence). No study reported on contrast sensitivity or quality of life at one-year follow-up. Data from one study at three months suggest that contrast sensitivity did not differ between groups under photopic conditions, but may be worse in the trifocal group in one of the four frequencies under mesopic conditions (MD -0.19, 95% CI -0.33 to -0.05; 1 study; I² = 0%, 25 participants; low-certainty evidence). In two studies, the investigators observed that participants' satisfaction or spectacle independence may be higher in the trifocal group at six months, although another study found no evidence of a difference in participant satisfaction or spectacle independence between groups. Adverse events Adverse events reporting varied among studies. Two studies reported information on adverse events at one year. One study reported that participants showed no intraoperative or postoperative complications, while the other study reported that four eyes (11.4%) in the bifocal and three eyes (7.5%) in the trifocal group developed significant posterior capsular opacification requiring YAG capsulotomy. The certainty of the evidence was low.

AUTHORS' CONCLUSIONS

There is low-certainty of evidence that compared to bifocal IOL, implantation of trifocal IOL may improve uncorrected intermediate visual acuity at one year. However, there is no evidence of a difference between trifocal and bifocal IOL for uncorrected distance visual acuity, uncorrected near visual acuity, and best-corrected visual acuity at one year. Future research should include the comparison of both trifocal IOL and specific bifocal IOLs that correct intermediate visual acuity to evaluate important outcomes such as contrast sensitivity and quality of life.

Relationship of Contrast Sensitivity Measured Using Quick Contrast Sensitivity Function With Other Visual Functions in a Low Vision Population

Purpose

Contrast sensitivity (CS) is predictive of various aspects of an individual's functional vision, such as recognizing faces and driving. Currently available CS charts are limited in terms of the spatial frequencies they can test and/or the contrast resolution of the targets they present. The traditional methods for measuring full CS functions (CSFs) are time consuming. The purpose of this study was to examine the feasibility of using the quick CSF method in a low vision population and to assess the relationships of CS with other visual functions, which can contribute to the understanding of the functional vision.

Methods

Static visual acuity, dynamic visual acuity, CS, global motion perception thresholds, and visual field were measured binocularly in 53 individuals with low vision. The number of participants who could complete each assessment was used to assess feasibility. The relationships between CS and other visual functions were assessed using linear regressions and multiple regressions.

Results

The quick CSF was quantifiable in 34 participants of the 42 with quantifiable visual acuities. The area under the log CSF-the summary statistic of CSF-was significantly correlated with static visual acuity and dynamic visual acuity (r = -0.79 and r = -0.63, respectively; P < 0.001).

Conclusions

The qCSF is capable of measuring CS in a wide range of visual impairment severities. area under the log CSF only correlates with measures of visual acuity.

Improvement or Worsening of Human Contrast Sensitivity Due to Blue Light Attenuation at 450 nm

PURPOSE

The work was aimed at comparing contrast sensitivity performance in an indoor environment with two filters, which differ only in the presence of a band at 450±20 nm in the transmittance spectrum.

PATIENTS AND METHODS

Thirty-nine subjects participated. The filters were the Standard (ST) and Professional (PRO) Drive lenses (Hoya, Japan), the latter showing the attenuation band at 450 nm. Photopic contrast sensitivity (CS) was measured at different spatial frequencies from 1.5 to 18 cpd through Functional Acuity Contrast Test with both lenses (LogCS_ST and LogCS_PRO, respectively). The areas under the curves of LogCS_ST and LogCS_PRO as a function of the spatial frequency were also considered.

RESULTS

In the range of the measured values of LogCS_ST for the thirty-nine participants, at each spatial frequency and also for the areas, the difference Δ = LogCS_PRO - LogCS_ST was found to decrease and change sign from positive to negative as a function of LogCS_ST, thus allowing to deduce a threshold (LogCS_threshold) for LogCS_ST corresponding to Δ=0. Significant CS worsening was found with the PRO compared to the ST lens for the subjects showing LogCS_ST > LogCS_threshold. Vice versa, CS improvement was found when LogCS_ST < LogCS_threshold.

CONCLUSION

In the choice of a blue-filtering lens, practitioners should take into consideration that the attenuation of light in the range 420-470 nm is expected to produce a CS worsening in subjects showing a relatively high initial CS (higher than a threshold CS). For these subjects, the general reduction of transmitted light intensity prevails on possible advantages. On the contrary, subjects showing a relatively low initial CS are expected to show a CS improvement because the attenuation of light in the range 420-470 nm is expected to reduce intraocular scattering and to mimic the effect as an optical filter of the human macular pigment, advantages which prevail on the reduction of the transmitted light intensity.

Bifocal and Multifocal Contact Lenses for Presbyopia and Myopia Control

Bifocal and multifocal optical devices are intended to get images into focus from objects placed at different distances from the observer. Spectacles, contact lenses, and intraocular lenses can meet the requirements to provide such a solution. Contact lenses provide unique characteristics as a platform for implementing bifocality and multifocality. Compared to spectacles, they are closer to the eye, providing a wider field of view, less distortion, and their use is more consistent as they are not so easily removed along the day. In addition, contact lenses are also minimally invasive, can be easily exchangeable, and, therefore, suitable for conditions in which surgical procedures are not indicated. Contact lenses can remain centered with the eye despite eye movements, providing the possibility for simultaneous imaging from different object distances. The main current indications for bifocal and multifocal contact lenses include presbyopia correction in adult population and myopia control in children. Considering the large numbers of potential candidates for optical correction of presbyopia and the demographic trends in myopia, the potential impact of contact lenses for presbyopia and myopia applications is undoubtedly tremendous. However, the ocular characteristics and expectations vary significantly between young and older candidates and impose different challenges in fitting bifocal and multifocal contact lenses for the correction of presbyopia and myopia control. This review presents the recent developments in material platforms, optical designs, simulated visual performance, and the clinical performance assessment of bifocal and multifocal contact lenses for presbyopia correction and/or myopia progression control.

Contrast sensitivity impairment in drug-naïve Parkinson's disease patients associates with early cognitive decline

OBJECTIVES

To investigate the contrast sensitivity function in drug-naïve Parkinson's disease (PD) patients and its predictive value with longitudinal follow-up data.

METHODS

We included newly diagnosed non-demented PD patients who performed contrast sensitivity test between 2013 and 2014. Contrast sensitivity function at drug-naïve state in PD patients was compared with age-matched normal control data of our center. Correlation between contrast sensitivity function and parkinsonian motor and non-motor features including the Mini-Mental State Exam (MMSE) score at the time of diagnosis were analyzed by linear regression. With longitudinal follow-up data after initiating anti-parkinsonian therapy, the risk conferred on subsequent visual hallucinations and cognitive impairment requiring anti-dementia drugs was analyzed by dichotomizing PD group based on the initial contrast sensitivity function.

RESULTS

Forty-eight patients were finally included, and mean follow-up periods were 43 months. Contrast sensitivity function in drug-naïve PD patients was significantly worse than controls. Contrast sensitivity function correlated with sleep disturbance (p = 0.001) and global cognitive status reflected by the MMSE score (p = 0.020). It also associated with further decline in the MMSE during the follow-ups (p = 0.029). Patients with below average contrast sensitivity function at the time of diagnosis showed higher risk of cognitive decline requiring anti-dementia drugs (adjusted odds ratio = 4.68, p = 0.04) and of visual hallucinations (adjusted odds ratio = 12.54, p = 0.04) than those above average function during the follow-up.

CONCLUSION

Contrast sensitivity impairment in drug-naïve PD patients associates with clinical demand for therapeutic intervention of cognitive decline as well as development of visual hallucinations in the early course of the disease.

Precision and Normative Values of a New Computerized Chart for Contrast Sensitivity Testing

The purpose was to define a normative database for a grating test for contrast sensitivity, based on a chart monitor with high-definition liquid crystal display, and validate its measurements by assessing their repeatability and determining responsiveness to cataract surgery. Three samples were analyzed: (1) healthy volunteers to assess the repeatability of measurements, (2) healthy subjects to develop the normative database, (3) patients undergoing cataract surgery. All subjects were tested with the grating contrast sensitivity test (Vision Chart, CSO) at 1.5, 3, 6, 12 and 18 cycles per degree. The instrument software progressively reduces the contrast of the gratings according to the Quick Estimate by Sequential Testing (QUEST) procedure. In the subjects of the first sample, three consecutive measurements were taken and repeatability was assessed on the basis of the intra-session test-retest variability and the coefficient of variation. The test offered high repeatability, with test-retest variability ranging between 0.05 and 0.23 Log CS and the coefficient of variation between 0.61 and 4.21%. Normative data did not show a normal distribution. The highest median values were observed at 1.5, 3 and 6 cycles per degree frequencies. At these frequencies a ceiling effect was evident. In cataract patients, postoperative values showed an improvement at all spatial frequencies. In conclusion, the new contrast sensitivity test provides repeatable measurements that can be used for clinical purposes. In patients with healthy eyes and good vision, attention has to be paid to the ceiling effect.

Measuring the Contrast Sensitivity Function Using the qCSF Method With 10 Digits

PURPOSE

The Bayesian adaptive quick contrast sensitivity function (qCSF) method with a 10-letter identification task provides an efficient CSF assessment. However, large populations are unfamiliar with letters and cannot benefit from this test. To overcome the barrier, we conducted this study.

METHOD

A new font for digits (0∼9) was created. The digits were then filtered with a raised cosine filter, rescaled to different sizes to cover spatial frequencies from 0.5 to 16 cycles per degree (cpd), and used as stimuli in a 10-alternative forced choice (10AFC) digit identification task. With the 10AFC digit identification task, the CSFs of five young and five old observers were measured using the qCSF and Psi methods. The estimates from the latter served as reference.

RESULTS

The new digit font showed significantly improved similarity structure, Levene's test, F(1, 88) = 6.36, P = 0.014. With the 10-digit identification task, the CSFs obtained with the qCSF method matched well with those obtained with the Psi method (root mean square error [RMSE] = 0.053 log10 units). With approximately 30 trials, the precision of the qCSF method reached 0.1 log10 units. With approximately 75 trials, the precision of the CSFs obtained with the qCSF was comparable to that of the CSFs measured by the Psi method in 150 trials.

CONCLUSIONS

The qCSF with the 10 digit identification task is validated for both young and old observers.

TRANSLATIONAL RELEVANCE

The qCSF method with the 10-digit identification task provides an efficient and precise CSF test especially for people who are unfamiliar with letters.

Presbyopia: Effectiveness of correction strategies

Presbyopia is a global problem affecting over a billion people worldwide. The prevalence of unmanaged presbyopia is as high as 50% of those over 50 years of age in developing world populations, due to a lack of awareness and accessibility to affordable treatment, and is even as high as 34% in developed countries. Definitions of presbyopia are inconsistent and varied, so we propose a redefinition that states "presbyopia occurs when the physiologically normal age-related reduction in the eye's focusing range reaches a point, when optimally corrected for distance vision, that the clarity of vision at near is insufficient to satisfy an individual's requirements". Strategies for correcting presbyopia include separate optical devices located in front of the visual system (reading glasses) or a change in the direction of gaze to view through optical zones of different optical powers (bifocal, trifocal or progressive addition spectacle lenses), monovision (with contact lenses, intraocular lenses, laser refractive surgery and corneal collagen shrinkage), simultaneous images (with contact lenses, intraocular lenses and corneal inlays), pinhole depth of focus expansion (with intraocular lenses, corneal inlays and pharmaceuticals), crystalline lens softening (with lasers or pharmaceuticals) or restored dynamics (with 'accommodating' intraocular lenses, scleral expansion techniques and ciliary muscle electrostimulation); these strategies may be applied differently to the two eyes to optimise the range of clear focus for an individual's task requirements and minimise adverse visual effects. However, none fully overcome presbyopia in all patients. While the restoration of natural accommodation or an equivalent remains elusive, guidance is given on presbyopic correction evaluation techniques.

Temporal structure in spiking patterns of ganglion cells defines perceptual thresholds in rodents with subretinal prosthesis

Subretinal prostheses are designed to restore sight in patients blinded by retinal degeneration using electrical stimulation of the inner retinal neurons. To relate retinal output to perception, we studied behavioral thresholds in blind rats with photovoltaic subretinal prostheses stimulated by full-field pulsed illumination at 20 Hz, and measured retinal ganglion cell (RGC) responses to similar stimuli ex-vivo. Behaviorally, rats exhibited startling response to changes in brightness, with an average contrast threshold of 12%, which could not be explained by changes in the average RGC spiking rate. However, RGCs exhibited millisecond-scale variations in spike timing, even when the average rate did not change significantly. At 12% temporal contrast, changes in firing patterns of prosthetic response were as significant as with 2.3% contrast steps in visible light stimulation of healthy retinas. This suggests that millisecond-scale changes in spiking patterns define perceptual thresholds of prosthetic vision. Response to the last pulse in the stimulation burst lasted longer than the steady-state response during the burst. This may be interpreted as an excitatory OFF response to prosthetic stimulation, and can explain behavioral response to decrease in illumination. Contrast enhancement of images prior to delivery to subretinal prosthesis can partially compensate for reduced contrast sensitivity of prosthetic vision.

Contrast Sensitivity in Patients With Emmetropic Presbyopia Before and After Small-Aperture Inlay Implantation

PURPOSE

To develop a normative contrast sensitivity function and examine the postoperative contrast sensitivity outcomes for emmetropic patients with presbyopia implanted with a KAMRA intracorneal inlay (AcuFocus Inc., Irvine, CA) in their non-dominant eyes.

METHODS

A prospective, non-randomized, multicenter clinical trial was conducted on 507 patients between 45 and 60 years of age who were monocularly implanted with the KAMRA inlay. A predetermined subgroup of 335 patients in the contrast sensitivity substudy were measured preoperatively and postoperatively with the Functional Acuity Contrast Test (FACT) chart in the Optec 6500 Vision Tester (Stereo Optical Co., Chicago, IL) under monocular and binocular, photopic and mesopic without glare, and binocular mesopic with glare conditions each over four spatial frequencies (3, 6, 12, and 18 cycles per degree for photopic conditions and 1.5, 3, 6, and 12 cycles per degree for mesopic conditions). Normative ranges were developed using 1.96 standard deviations from the preoperative mean logCS (log10 unit of contrast sensitivity).

RESULTS

The preoperative contrast sensitivity measurements were used to develop the normative contrast sensitivity curves. Postoperatively, contrast sensitivity was stable both monocularly and binocularly and average contrast sensitivity remained within the normative ranges. Postoperative contrast sensitivity was mildly reduced monocularly but not binocularly, and the ratio of area under logCS function comparing postoperative to preoperative values was above 90% for all but one condition.

CONCLUSIONS

Normative contrast sensitivity curves for a presbyopic population are established to provide a referent in the investigation of the impact of other presbyopia-correcting ophthalmic procedures on contrast sensitivity. [J Refract Surg. 2016;32(6):386-393.].

Trifocal intraocular lenses versus bifocal intraocular lenses after cataract extraction

This is a protocol for a Cochrane Review (Intervention). The objectives are as follows:

The objective of this review is to assess the visual effects of implantation of trifocal intraocular lenses compared with bifocal intraocular lenses during cataract surgery among presbyopic patients.

TuebingenCSTest - a useful method to assess the contrast sensitivity function

Since contrast sensitivity (CS) relies on the accuracy of stimulus presentation, the reliability of the psychophysical procedure and observer's attention, the measurement of the CS-function is critical and therefore, a useful threshold contrast measurement was developed. The Tuebingen Contrast Sensitivity Test (TueCST) includes an adaptive staircase procedure and a 16-bit gray-level resolution. In order to validate the CS measurements with the TueCST, measurements were compared with existing tests by inter-test repeatability, test-retest reliability and time. The novel design enables an accurate presentation of the spatial frequency and higher precision, inter-test repeatability and test-retest reliability compared to other existing tests.

SPARCS and Pelli-Robson contrast sensitivity testing in normal controls and patients with cataract

PurposeTo determine the ability of the newly developed internet-based Spaeth/Richman Contrast Sensitivity (SPARCS) test to assess contrast sensitivity centrally and peripherally in cataract subjects and controls, in comparison with the Pelli-Robson (PR) test.MethodsIn this prospective cross-sectional study, cataract subjects and age-matched normal controls were evaluated using the SPARCS and PR tests. Contrast sensitivity testing was performed in each eye twice in a standardized testing environment in randomized order. SPARCS scores were obtained for central, right upper (RUQ), right lower (RLQ), left upper (LUQ), and left lower quadrants (LLQ). PR scores were obtained for central contrast sensitivity. PR and SPARCS scores in cataract subjects were compared with controls. Intraclass correlation coefficients (ICC) and Bland Altman analysis were used to determine test-retest reliability and correlation.ResultsA total of 162 eyes from 84 subjects were analyzed: 43 eyes from 23 cataract subjects, and 119 eyes from 61 controls. The mean scores for SPARCS centrally were 13.4 and 14.5 in the cataract and control groups, respectively (P=0.001). PR mean scores were 1.31 and 1.45 in cataract and control groups, respectively (P<0.001). ICC values for test-retest reliability for cataract subjects were 0.75 for PR and 0.61 for the SPARCS total. There was acceptable agreement between the ability of PR and SPARCS to detect the effect of cataract on central contrast sensitivity.ConclusionsBoth SPARCS and PR demonstrate a significant influence of cataract on contrast sensitivity. SPARCS offers the advantage of determining contrast sensitivity peripherally and centrally, without being influenced by literacy.

Mobile app Aston contrast sensitivity test

BACKGROUND

Contrast detection is an important aspect of the assessment of visual function; however, clinical tests evaluate limited spatial frequencies and contrasts. This study validates the accuracy and inter-test repeatability of a swept-frequency near and distance mobile app Aston contrast sensitivity test, which overcomes this limitation compared to traditional charts.

METHOD

Twenty subjects wearing their full refractive correction underwent contrast sensitivity testing on the new near application (near app), distance app, CSV-1000 and Pelli-Robson charts with full correction and with vision degraded by 0.8 and 0.2 Bangerter degradation foils. In addition repeated measures using the 0.8 occluding foil were taken.

RESULTS

The mobile apps (near more than distance, p = 0.005) recorded a higher contrast sensitivity than printed tests (p < 0.001); however, all charts showed a reduction in measured contrast sensitivity with degradation (p < 0.001) and a similar decrease with increasing spatial frequency (interaction > 0.05). Although the coefficient of repeatability was lowest for the Pelli-Robson charts (0.14 log units), the mobile app charts measured more spatial frequencies, took less time and were more repeatable (near: 0.26 to 0.37 log units; distance: 0.34 to 0.39 log units) than the CSV-1000 (0.30 to 0.93 log units). The duration to complete the CSV-1000 was 124 ± 37 seconds, Pelli-Robson 78 ± 27 seconds, near app 53 ± 15 seconds and distance app 107 ± 36 seconds.

CONCLUSIONS

While there were differences between charts in contrast levels measured, the new Aston near and distance apps are valid, repeatable and time-efficient method of assessing contrast sensitivity at multiple spatial frequencies.

The SPARCS: a novel assessment of contrast sensitivity and its reliability in patients with corrected refractive error

PURPOSE

To explore the reliability of the Spaeth/Richman Contrast Sensitivity (SPARCS) test and to assess the contrast sensitivity (CS) distribution among subjects with various refractive errors.

METHODS

Cross-sectional study. Ninety-three individuals (182 eyes) with varying amounts of refractive error were included in this study and divided into six groups according to their spherical equivalent. CS was evaluated using Pelli-Robson (PR) and SPARCS assessments. Each eye was tested twice with both measurements. Outcomes included the correlations of PR and SPARCS scores, the test-retest agreement of the two measurements and the limits of agreement between tests of CS measurements. The distribution of CS among the six groups was compared.

RESULTS

Pearson correlation analysis showed statistically significant correlations between SPARCS and PR scores (p<0.001). Reliability analysis showed that SPARCS had better test-retest agreement than PR, with SPARCS exhibiting a higher intraclass coefficient (ICC=0.635). Bland-Altman plots showed that the mean difference of measurements was close to 0 for both CS measurements. Among the six refractive groups, there were no significant differences in CS scores with either measurement.

CONCLUSIONS

SPARCS appears to be a reliable assessment for CS. The difference in CS among myopes, emmetropes and hyperopes wearing their habitual correction was statistically insignificant in this study.

CLINICAL TRIAL NUMBER

NCT01300949, post results.

Evaluating the performance of the quick CSF method in detecting contrast sensitivity function changes

The contrast sensitivity function (CSF) has shown promise as a functional vision endpoint for monitoring the changes in functional vision that accompany eye disease or its treatment. However, detecting CSF changes with precision and efficiency at both the individual and group levels is very challenging. By exploiting the Bayesian foundation of the quick CSF method (Lesmes, Lu, Baek, & Albright, 2010), we developed and evaluated metrics for detecting CSF changes at both the individual and group levels. A 10-letter identification task was used to assess the systematic changes in the CSF measured in three luminance conditions in 112 naïve normal observers. The data from the large sample allowed us to estimate the test-retest reliability of the quick CSF procedure and evaluate its performance in detecting CSF changes at both the individual and group levels. The test-retest reliability reached 0.974 with 50 trials. In 50 trials, the quick CSF method can detect a medium 0.30 log unit area under log CSF change with 94.0% accuracy at the individual observer level. At the group level, a power analysis based on the empirical distribution of CSF changes from the large sample showed that a very small area under log CSF change (0.025 log unit) could be detected by the quick CSF method with 112 observers and 50 trials. These results make it plausible to apply the method to monitor the progression of visual diseases or treatment effects on individual patients and greatly reduce the time, sample size, and costs in clinical trials at the group level.

Microincision versus Standard Corneal Incision Phacoemulsification: Visual Outcome

PURPOSE

To compare the visual outcome of microincision (2.2 mm) with standard (2.75 mm) corneal incision phacoemulsification.

METHODS

In this prospective, randomized comparative study, patients with senile cataract and less than 1 diopter (D) of astigmatism were divided into two groups. Group 1 included patients undergoing phacoemulsification with 2.2 mm clear corneal incision and group 2 included those undergoing phacoemulsification with 2.75 mm incision. The steep axis measured on keratometry was marked preoperatively. Phacoemulsification was performed through clear corneal incision on this steep axis. Assessment of visual acuity (distance and near), keratometry, keratometric cylinder, contrast sensitivity by Functional Acuity Contrast Test, and surgically induced astigmatism (SIA) was performed at 1 day, 1 week, and 1, 3, and 6 months.

RESULTS

Fifty eyes of 50 patients were included in the study (29 were male). There were 25 patients in each group. The mean (±SD) SIA calculated by vector analysis method (Holladay-Cravy-Koch) using keratometry value, at the end of 6 months, was 0.54 (±0.18) D and 0.58 (±0.14) D in groups 1 and 2, respectively (p = 0.27). No significant differences were found in the distance and near uncorrected visual acuity, mean keratometry, keratometric cylinder, contrast sensitivity, and SIA at any follow-up visit between two groups.

CONCLUSIONS

In patients with less than 1 D astigmatism undergoing phacoemulsification, both 2.2-mm and 2.75-mm clear corneal incisions result in similar postoperative visual outcome in terms of SIA, keratometry, and contrast sensitivity.

Comparison of Contrast Sensitivity and Through Focus in Small-Aperture Inlay, Accommodating Intraocular Lens, or Multifocal Intraocular Lens Subjects

PURPOSE

To compare monocular and binocular mesopic contrast sensitivity and through focus following monocular implantation with KAMRA small-aperture inlay (AcuFocus, Irvine, California, USA) vs binocular implantation with an accommodating or multifocal intraocular lens (IOL) implant.

DESIGN

Three-treatment randomized clinical trial of presbyopia-correcting IOLs with comparison to results from a previous nonrandomized multicenter clinical trial on the KAMRA corneal inlay.

METHODS

Study population of 507 subjects with KAMRA inlays; predetermined subgroups included 327 subjects that underwent contrast sensitivity testing and another 114 subjects for defocus curve testing, along with 78 subjects randomized between bilateral Crystalens Advanced Optics (AO) (Bausch + Lomb Surgical, Aliso Viejo, California, USA), AcrySof IQ ReSTOR +3.0 D (Alcon Laboratories, Fort Worth, Texas, USA), or Tecnis +4D Multifocal (MF) (Abbott Medical Optics, Santa Ana, California, USA) IOL.

RESULTS

KAMRA inlay subjects demonstrated improved intermediate and near vision with minimal to no change to distance vision, better contrast sensitivity in the inlay eye when compared to the multifocals, and better binocular contrast sensitivity when compared to all 3 intraocular lenses. Crystalens AO was superior in uncorrected intermediate vision compared to the KAMRA inlay, but not in distance-corrected intermediate, and was worse in near vision. The multifocals were superior in near vision at their respective optimum near focus points, but worse in intermediate vision compared to both KAMRA inlay and Crystalens AO.

CONCLUSIONS

The demonstrated performance of these devices should be considered, along with subjects' visual demands and expectations, degree of crystalline lens dysfunction, and other ocular characteristics, in guiding the selection of small-aperture corneal inlay or specific intraocular lens in the correction of presbyopia.

Contrast sensitivity and the effect of 60-hour sleep deprivation

PURPOSE

The study aimed to evaluate the possible influence of prolonged sleep deprivation on achromatic and chromatic (red-green and blue-yellow) contrast sensitivity (CS).

METHODS

During 60-hr sleep deprivation, CS was measured in 11 naval officers every sixth hour using videographic (Vigra-C) sine-wave-generated stimuli.

RESULTS

When comparing the CS measurements obtained in the first and last 24 hr of the study, no statistically significant mean changes of achromatic CS (2.0, 5.9 and 11.8 cpd) or yellow-blue CS (0.6, 2.0 and 4.7 cpd) were found, while a significantly increased mean red-green CS at 2.0 and 4.7 cpd was recorded in the last 24 hr (p = 0.003 in both). The variance of achromatic and chromatic CS measurements in the group did not differ significantly in the first and last 24 hr test periods.

CONCLUSIONS

Prolonged sleep deprivation does apparently not cause clinically or occupationally significant changes of contrast sensitivity in otherwise healthy subjects with normal visual acuity.