Reading Acuity Research Articles

The effectiveness of assistive devices in improving reading performance in vision rehabilitation patients.

The effectiveness of assistive devices in improving reading performance in vision rehabilitation patients.

Reading Performances in Highly Myopic Patients and Correlation with the Topography of Atrophic Maculopathy.

Reading Performances in Highly Myopic Patients and Correlation with the Topography of Atrophic Maculopathy.

Digital eye strain and clinical correlates in older adults.

Digital eye strain and clinical correlates in older adults.

Soft toric contact lens correction of moderate astigmatism improves digital reading performance and oculomotor behaviour: An eye movement study.

Soft toric contact lens correction of moderate astigmatism improves digital reading performance and oculomotor behaviour: An eye movement study.

Comparison of visual acuity and optical quality between higher-order aspheric monofocal and standard introcular lenses.

To compare the 12-month outcomes of visual performance and patient satisfaction of a higher-order aspheric monofocal intraocular lens (IOL) and a conventional monofocal IOL. Prospective, randomized, comparative, double-blinded study including 22 patients who underwent bilateral cataract surgery with implantation of the Tecnis Eyhance ICB00 IOL in one eye (ICB00 group) and the Tecnis ZCB00 IOL in the fellow eye (ZCB00 group). Uncorrected distance (UDVA), corrected distance (CDVA), uncorrected intermediate (UIVA), distance-corrected intermediate (DCIVA), uncorrected near (UNVA), and distance-corrected near visual acuities (DCNVA) were evaluated during a 12-month follow-up. Contrast sensitivity, defocus curves, and reading text size were also evaluated. Patient satisfaction was assessed with a questionnaire at the 6-month postoperative visit. Mean postoperative logMAR UDVA was 0.01±0.12 and -0.02±0.10 in ICB00 and ZCB00 groups, respectively (P=0.37). Mean logMAR UIVA was 0.32±0.19 and 0.45±0.16 in ICB00 and ZCB00 groups, respectively (P=0.010). Differences between groups in UNVA did not reach statistical significance (P=0.16). The intermediate reading acuity at 66 cm (P=0.02) and 80 cm (P=0.04) was significantly better in the ICB00 group. Postoperative contrast sensitivity results did not differ significantly between groups (P>0.05). Patients reported high overall satisfaction, with 62% of patients using spectacles for reading in everyday life. The eyes of patients implanted with the enhanced monofocal IOL evaluated have significantly better visual acuity for intermediate distances with the same contrast sensitivity as a conventional monofocal IOL.

Arabic Reading Performance With a Chromatic Acuity Chart.

This study compared the reading performance for Arabic text defined by chromatic and achromatic contrast to understand better how chromatic contrast affects reading of normally sighted individuals and to establish a baseline for determining whether patients have a selective red-green chromatic sensitivity loss. Reading performance for Arabic text was accessed by examining maximum reading speed (MRS), reading acuity (RA), critical print size (CPS), and the Reading Accessibility Index (ACC) using three near-point charts. The charts were the black-on-white Balsam Alabdulkader-Leat (BAL) chart, a red-on-green chart, and a gray-on-gray chart with a background luminance equal to the chromatic chart. The MRSs were significantly different (P = 0.03), with the red-on-green chart having a slightly higher value than the BAL chart. The ACC was lower for the BAL chart than the red-on-green and gray charts (P = 0.003). However, RA for the BAL chart was better, and the CPS was smaller relative to the red-on-green chart (P < 0.05) and gray chart (P < 0.001). Individuals with red-green color vision deficiencies had poorer RA and larger CPS on the red-on-green chart relative to the achromatic charts. Although the MRS and ACC of the chromatic chart were significantly higher, the difference was not clinically important. The result that the MRS was similar for all three charts confirmed earlier findings that MRS is similar if text contrast is sufficiently above threshold. The lower RA and corresponding larger CPS for the red-on-green and gray charts were due to their lower background luminance and lower contrast.

Age-Related Changes in Mesopic Reading Vision Across Adulthood.

Reading is indispensable for daily activities such as reading books, menus, and food labels, occurring under a wide range of luminance conditions from mesopic (dim light) to photopic (daylight). Despite its significance, there has been limited attention on age-related changes in mesopic reading vision. The current study aims to investigate how mesopic reading vision changes across adulthood. Using the MNREAD iPad app, we assessed both mesopic (2 cd/m2) and photopic (220 cd/m2) reading vision in 157 normally-sighted individuals aged from 18 to 84, grouped into seven age groups. Reading vision was evaluated using four MNREAD parameters: maximum reading speed (MRS), critical print size (CPS), reading acuity (RA), and reading accessibility index (ACC). There was a significant age-related decline in reading vision under both mesopic and photopic conditions, with a more pronounced decline observed in mesopic conditions. The decline was linear from age 20 to 80: MRS decreased by 30 words-per-minute in mesopic conditions and 29 words-per-minute in photopic conditions; ACC declined by 0.18 (mesopic) and 0.12 (photopic); CPS declined by 0.3 logMAR (mesopic) and 0.16 logMAR (photopic); RA declined by 0.24 logMAR (mesopic) and 0.18 logMAR (photopic). Our results show a monotonic decline in reading vision from ages 20 to 80 under both mesopic and photopic conditions, with a more pronounced decline in mesopic light. Given the significance of reading vision as a clinical measure, assessing reading vision under mesopic conditions may offer a more comprehensive evaluation of functional vision in everyday life.

Femtosecond Laser Liquid Optics Interface as Low Vision Optical Resource

Purpose To assess the efficacy of a low-cost optical magnifier created from the repurposed femtosecond laser interface used in cataract surgery to reduce healthcare waste and financial burden for low-vision patients. Methods This prospective study included 16 Brazilian patients from the Low Vision Department of the Irmandade da Santa Casa de Misericórdia de São Paulo. Participants had visual acuity between +0.5 and +1.3 logMAR and visual field constrictions under 20°. The Catalys® femtosecond laser interface lens, usually discarded after surgery, was sterilized and attached to a recyclable support to create a magnifying device. Patients were trained to use it for 30 days. Visual function was assessed with the NEI VFQ-25, and reading performance was measured using the MNREAD-P test. Results Thirteen patients (81.25%) completed the study. The use of the optical device led to significant improvements in all MNREAD-P parameters. Reading acuity improved from 0.74 ± 0.19 logMAR (20/110 Snellen) to 0.41 ± 0.22 logMAR (20/50 Snellen) (p < 0.001). Critical print size decreased from 0.85 ± 0.19 logMAR (20/140 Snellen) to 0.56 ± 0.24 logMAR (20/70 Snellen) (p < 0.001). Maximum reading speed increased from 41.4 ± 18.0 words per minute (wpm) to 56.2 ± 25.2 wpm (p < 0.001). NEI VFQ-25 scores improved from 32.7 ± 13.8 to 46.9 ± 15.0 (p < 0.001), with increases observed in all subcategories, particularly in “Reactions to Vision Problems.” Conclusion Repurposing the femtosecond laser interface lens as a low-cost magnifier showed promising improvements in reading and visual function for low-vision patients while addressing healthcare waste. Further studies with larger samples are recommended to validate and expand this sustainable approach in visual rehabilitation.

Monocular reading performance measured by MNREAD-P acuity chart in normo-readers schoolchildren

This study aimed to determine and establish values for reading performance in normo-readers schoolchildren. Literate students aged 8 to 18 years old without visual impairments were recruited. The MNREAD-P chart was used to assess monocular reading acuity (RA in logMAR), critical print size (CPS in logMAR), and maximum reading speed (MRS in words per minute - wpm). Participants were grouped into three education levels: Elementary School I (3rd to 5th grade), Elementary School II (6 to 9th), and High School (10 to 12th). Lower and upper normal limits were determined using a 95% confidence interval around the mean. The association of RA, MRS, and CPS with sex, heterophoria, and education level was analyzed with a significance level of p ≤ 0.05. The final sample included 184 eyes from 92 participants (65% female) with a mean age of 12.8 ± 2.9 years. The normative lower limits were: (a) RA of 0.1 logMAR for Elementary I and II and 0.0 logMAR for High School; (b) CPS of 0.3 logMAR for all education levels; (c) MSR of 116 wpm for Elementary I, 159 wpm for Elementary II and 192 wpm for High School. Higher education level was significantly associated with improvement in RA (p = 0.017) and MRS (p < 0.001).

Letter to the editor: ISO 7921:2024-A new international standard for measurement of reading acuity.

Letter to the editor: ISO 7921:2024-A new international standard for measurement of reading acuity.

Toric Aberrometric Extended Depth of Focus Intraocular Lens: Visual Outcomes, Rotational Stability, Patients' Satisfaction, and Spectacle Independence.

Objective: To evaluate visual outcomes, rotational stability, patients' satisfaction, and spectacle independence after bilateral Toric extended depth of focus intraocular lens (EDOF IOL) implantation. Methods: Prospective observational study including cataract patients with bilateral corneal astigmatism between 0.75 and 3.00 D implanted with Toric EDOF IOLs. After three months distance corrected and uncorrected visual acuity at 4 m (DCVA and UDVA), 80 cm (DCI80VA and UI80VA), 67 cm (DCI67VA and UI67VA), and 40 cm (DCNVA and UNVA), IOL stability by Toric IOL Assistant tool (Osiris T, CSO, Florence, Italy), binocular defocus curves, contrast sensitivity (CS), halometry, reading performance, and subjective and objective (Root mean square-RMS, modulation transfer function-MTF, cut-off and point-spread-function-PSF-Strehl ratio) visual quality were evaluated. Results: Forty eyes from 20 astigmatic patients were enrolled. Mean refractive spherical equivalent and residual cylinder were -0.21 ± 0.74 D and 0.29 ± 0.31 D, respectively. No patients needed additional surgery due to IOL rotation. Binocular UDVA, UI80VA, UI67VA, and UNVA ≤ 0.2 logMAR was found in 90%, 95%, 85%, and 80%. Distance-corrected visual outcomes have overall shown higher performances. All visual acuities at defocus curves were ≤0.125 logMAR between +0.50 D and -2.00 D. PSF-Strehl ratio, MTF cut-off, RMS were 0.26 ± 0.28, 19.82 ± 12.35, 0.31 ± 0.17. Reading analysis reached 125.42 ± 27.21 words/minute, 92.56 ± 7.82, 0.17 ± 0.15 logMAR and 0.50 ± 0.11 logRAD for mean reading speed, visual acuity score, reading acuity, and critical print size, respectively. CS was higher in photopic conditions. Subjective spectacle independence was achieved in 80% of patients. Conclusions: Toric EDOF IOL showed rotational stability and reliable astigmatic correction. It provided spectacle independence and good performance from distance to near distance, reaching high patient satisfaction without undermining binocular quality of vision.

Biofeedback rehabilitation in patients with binocular inhibition due to macular disease

BackgroundTo investigate whether patients with binocular reading inhibition due to central vision loss benefit from a new biofeedback (BF) rehabilitation method that aimed at improving fixation stability and at establishing a correspondence between the monocular preferred retinal loci (PRLs) on functioning retina in both eyes.MethodsThirty-three patients with bilateral macular disease and with binocular reading inhibition participated in 10 training sessions consisting of 10-min visual stimulation for each eye to stabilize fixation and relocate the PRL (if needed) using the BF module of the MP-1 microperimeter (Nidek Technologies Srl., Vigonza, PD, Italy). Binocular and monocular reading performance, contrast sensitivity, and visual acuity were evaluated pre and post training. Binocular summation/inhibition was evaluated with binocular ratio (BR).ResultsFixation stability improved significantly post training in both eyes. Maximum reading speed during binocular viewing increased from 57 ± 24wpm pre training to 67 ± 24wpm post training. BR increased for all parameters of reading, visual acuity, and contrast sensitivity. Training resulted in a complete reversal of binocular reading inhibition in 30% of patients.ConclusionsFor patients with binocular inhibition due to central vision loss, BF training to stabilize fixation and to bring the monocular PRLs into correspondence on functioning retina in both eyes is an efficient rehabilitation method to improve binocular performance.

Visual performance and quality of life in myopic adolescents with pupil-optimised multifocal versus single-vision contact lenses

ABSTRACT Clinical relevance Myopia control is a prominent area of global research, with multifocal contact lenses identified as an effective intervention for adolescents. Background This study aims to evaluate the visual performance and vision-related quality of life (QoL) of myopic adolescents when corrected with pupil-optimised multifocal soft contact lenses (MFSCLs) versus single-vision contact lenses (SVCLs), with each participant serving as their own control. Methods Thirty-five myopic adolescents, habitually wearing SVCLs and fitted with pupil-optimised MFSCL with mid-addition power, were recruited. The assessment included distance visual acuity (DVA), near visual acuity (NVA), maximum reading speed (MRS), reading acuity (RA), contrast sensitivity (CS), and stereoacuity (SA) in photopic conditions for both types of lenses. Vision-related QoL was quantified twice for both lens types using the National Eye Institute Visual Function Questionnaire (NEI VFQ-42), covering 13 vision-specific domains. Results Comparisons of visual outcomes between MFSCLs and SVCLs for the same subjects revealed statistically significant differences in DVA (p = 0.010), NVA (p = 0.014), MRS (p = 0.044), and RA (p < 0.001), with SVCLs outperforming in DVA only. No significant difference in CS and SA was observed between the two lens types. According to the NEI VFQ-42, scores for clarity of vision, far vision, glare, and satisfaction with correction were higher with SVCLs, while the score for near vision was higher with MFSCLs. When fitted with MFSCLs, no significant correlations were found between pupil size and age of the patient with any visual examination parameters. However, there was a significant negative correlation between the DVA, NVA and the spherical equivalent of the lens. Conclusion MFSCLs with mid-add power significantly improve NVA, MRS, and RA, albeit with a reduction in DVA compared to SVCLs. While SVCLs were associated with better clarity of vision, far vision, and satisfaction with correction, MFSCLs offered superior performance in near vision tasks, according to the NEI VFQ-42 scores.

Reading Performance Following Contralateral Implantation of an Extended Depth of Focus (EDOF) IOL and a Hybrid EDOF Multifocal IOL.

To assess objective reading performance at intermediate and near distances using the Salzberg Reading Desk (SRD) (SRD Vision) in patients with cataract who underwent the implantation of a diffractive extended depth of focus intraocular lens (EDOF IOL) in the dominant eye and a hybrid multifocal EDOF IOL in the non-dominant eye. This prospective, non-comparative, interventional study included 46 eyes of 23 patients with cataract who underwent bilateral cataract surgery with implantation of the DFR00V Tecnis Synergy IOL (Johnson & Johnson Surgical Vision) in the non-dominant eye and the DXR00V Tecnis Symfony OptiBlue IOL (Johnson & Johnson Surgical Vision) in the dominant eye. At postoperative 6 months, the Salzburg Reading Desk was used to assess distance-corrected reading performance at near and intermediate distances. Although the monocular reading acuity at the preferred intermediate distance was statistically significantly better in the eyes implanted with the DXR00V IOL, it was better with the DFR00V IOL at preferred near distances. The mean binocular distance-corrected preferred intermediate and near reading acuity was 0.07 ± 0.09 (20/23) and 0.13 ± 0.09 (20/27) logarithm of the minimum angle of resolution, respectively. Other parameters of reading performance, such as reading speed, reading distance, reading time, and smallest scale log print size, were similar between the two IOL groups when assessed monocularly. Implanting a DFR00V IOL in the non-dominant eye and a diffractive DXR00V IOL in the dominant eye resulted in excellent binocular reading acuity and speed at intermediate and near distances. [J Refract Surg. 2024;40(11):e778-e782.].

The no-retina-touch technique: vitrectomy and platelet-rich plasma in the treatment of lamellar macular hole. New insights into pathogenesis.

To explore the use of autologous platelet-rich plasma (PRP) as a potential therapeutic adjuvant strategy for treating degenerative lamellar macular holes (LMHs). A prospective interventional case series. Seven consecutive patients (8 eyes) with a diagnosis of LMH underwent a pars-plana vitrectomy with PRP injection under air tamponade. Anatomical results based on spectral domain optical coherence tomography (SD-OCT) and functional results, in terms of best corrected visual acuity (BCVA) and reading performance, were analyzed. At 12 months postoperatively, 7 out of 8 eyes (88%) presented a complete closure of the LMH. The ellipsoid zone (EZ) was restored in 3 eyes (37.5%). The mean (±SD) postoperative BCVA was 0.39 (±0.56) LogMAR, resulting in a statistically significant visual acuity improvement (p = 0.007). The mean (±SD) maximum reading speed (MaxRS) improved to 133.48 (±41.47) wpm, with a significant increase compared to the baseline (p = 0.029). The mean (±SD) reading acuity score (RA score) resulted in 0.44 (±0.04) LogRAD, with an improvement in reading acuity that did not reach statistical significance (p = 0.129). The utilization of the PRP technique with a no-retina-touch approach safeguards the delicate retinal tissues, minimizing the possibility of iatrogenic trauma or post-operative complications, while maintaining a high rate of efficacy in enabling the improvement of the foveal defect in lamellar macular holes.

The Short-term Effect of Caffeine Consumption on Reading Performance

Objective: Caffeine, a widely consumed psychoactive substance, is recognized for its cognitive-enhancing effects, notably enhancing performance on tasks requiring narrative comprehension, where it has been shown to boost both acuity and speed. This study investigates the impact of caffeine intake on reading acuity and evaluates changes in reading speed post-caffeine consumption. Material and Methods: Employing a cross-sectional design, nineteen participants with distance best-corrected vision of 6/6 or better (equivalent to logMAR 0.00 or better) (mean age=22.5±1.00 years old) and near vision of 0.1 logMAR (N5) were recruited. Baseline measurements of reading acuity and speed were taken using the article sourced from Perpustakaan Tun Abdul Razak (PTAR) and Buari-Chen Malay Reading Chart (BCMRC) before coffee consumption, respectively. Participants consumed 200 mg of Nescafe Gold (caffeine) before the subsequent assessment. The time taken to read the reading materials was recorded, alongside any errors. Results: While reading speed significantly increased post-caffeine consumption (t=-7.536, p-value&lt;0.001), reading acuity remained unaffected (t=-0.378, p-value=0.705). These results suggest a moderate dose of 200 mg of caffeine can enhance reading speed without compromising acuity in young adults.Conclusion: This indicates that caffeine mainly affects the rate of reading, while it does not alter the reading acuity of individuals.

Foveal crowding in children with developmental dyslexia.

Excessive crowding in the visual periphery has been demonstrated in children with developmental dyslexia (DD). However, less is known about crowding in the fovea, even though foveal crowding is at least equally important, as reading is mostly accomplished through foveal vision. Here we used a special set of digitstimuli (Pelli fonts) to measure foveal crowding in DD and DD + ADHD children, and compared it to that in TD (typically developing) and ADHD children. We also used the Chinese reading acuity charts (C-READ) to assess the maximum reading speed and reading acuity, along with tests to evaluate cognitive attributes including phonological awareness, rapid automatized naming, morphological awareness, and orthographic knowledge. The results indicate significantly stronger foveal crowding in the DD and DD + ADHD groups, as well as in the ADHD group, than in the TD group. Furthermore, the DD and DD + ADHD groups exhibited poorer maximum reading speed and reading acuity compared to the ADHD and TD groups.Within the two DD groups, theslower maximum reading speed and higher reading acuitycan be predicted bystronger foveal crowding. In addition, the DD and DD + ADHD groups performed the worst in four cognitive skills, with the DD group showing negative correlations between foveal crowding and performances across all these skills. Our findings thus move beyond previously well-documented peripheral crowding in dyslexia, and the easy administration of the Pelli-font-based crowding test may be useful for early diagnosis of developmental dyslexia in young children.

Development and validation of the Thai version of MNREAD acuity charts.

To develop and validate MNREAD acuity charts in the Thai language (MNREAD-TH). In total, 180 Thai sentences were generated using words specific to the primary 1-3 students. Each sentence contained 60 characters divided into three lines with even left and right margins and was evaluated by instructors in the education program in Thai. The selected 118 sentences were tested in 20 adults and 20 children by measuring reading time and recording the errors. Sentences with extremely high or low mean reading speeds were excluded. The remaining sentences were selected for contributing to the MNREAD-TH charts. For validation, the charts were tested in another 20 normal-sighted adult groups. In total, 118 sentences were tested on 20 adults (range: 23-58 years) and 20 primary school students (age: 8-9 years). The mean (SD) reading speeds in adult and children's groups were 134.09 (12.45) and 71.33 (10.77) words/min (wpm), respectively. After removing the sentences that deviated by ±1 SD from the mean reading speed, repeatedly had difficulty words, and had low subjective scoring, 60 matched sentences between the groups were selected to develop three versions of the MNREAD-TH chart. The intraclass correlation coefficients between charts were 0.85 for reading acuity, 0.94 for maximum reading speed, and 0.79 for critical print size. The MNREAD-TH charts can be reliably used for evaluating reading performance in Thai people for both children and adults with either normal sight or low vision. These charts are standardized and helpful in clinical trials involving reading.

Comparative study between JAWS® And NVDA® in academic performance of students with visual impairment

Assistive technology (AT) plays a significant role in improving academic activities of visually impaired students. Through these ATs, visually impaired students can be empowered to engage actively in academic activities. To investigate the impact of JAWS® (job access with speech) and NVDA® (nonvisual desktop access) on the academic performance of visually impaired students. This study employed a prospective analytical design. Age-matched groups of severely visually impaired students were enrolled and divided into two groups: Group A ( N = 25) received NVDA® and Group B ( N = 25) received JAWS®. The MNREAD acuity chart was used to measure the reading acuity, maximum reading speed, and critical print size. In addition, a self-designed questionnaire was employed to gather qualitative data on the features of the software and the students’ experiences while using it. Statistical Package for Social Science (SPSS) was used for data tabulation and analysis. An independent samples t-test was conducted to analyze the differences between variables. Furthermore, a qualitative assessment was performed using Pearson’s chi-square association test to determine the association between software usage and student experience. Statistical significance was set at p &lt; .05. The results revealed that NVDA® exhibited better outcomes than JAWS® in terms of improved academic activity among visually impaired students. These findings contribute to the existing literature on AT and underscore the potential of NVDA® in supporting the educational experiences of visually impaired students. Use of screen reader software not only enhanced the reading and learning experience but also promoted independence in the classroom. NVDA is the superior choice for several reasons. It caters to the individual needs of students, effectively supports their learning processes, and demonstrates a high level of appreciation among the users.

Зависимость определяемых по стандартизированным русскоязычным тест-картам параметров чтения от возраста

Background. In clinical ophthalmology, tests based on checking reading parameters are increasingly used. The development of a Russian-language test charts to evaluate reading parameters based on international standards with determining age-related reading standards will allow to use them to assess the dynamics of various diseases. Purpose. To determine the indicators of reading parameters in subjects of different age groups and to evaluate the relationship of the main indicators with age. Material and methods. We have developed Russian-language test charts to determine reading parameters in accordance with international standards. Reading parameters were investigated in 135 volunteers divided into 3 age groups: 18–39, 40–59 and 60–81 years old. The maximum reading speed, a critical print size and reading acuity were determined. Results. In the course of the study, age-related norms for the main reading parameters were determined. The maximum reading speed in the I, II and III groups was 192.5 ± 1.2, 180.6 ± 1.1 and 168.9 ± 0.8 words/min respectively. The critical print size in I, II and III groups was 0.14 ± 0.01, 0.24 ± 0.01 and 0.36 ± 0.01 LogMAR respectively. Reading acuity in groups was 0.009 ± 0.006, 0.075 ± 0.04 and 0.143 ± 0.005 LogMAR respectively. The differences between the studied indicators in I/II, I/III and II/III groups were statistically reliable (p &lt; 0.05). A statistically significant negative correlation was obtained between maximum reading speed and age; the correlation coefficient was –0.61. Conclusion.The obtained read parameters can be used as indicative age standards. Keywords: maximum reading speed, reading acuity, visual acuity, critical print size, MNREAD acuity charts