Scientific

Abstract:  One of the classic papers in the field of vision research is ‘Energy, Quanta and Vision’ (1942) by Hecht, Shlaer & Pirenne. I take this as a jumping-off point for a 21st century reconceptualization of these three domains of enquiry forming the foundations of neuroscience. In the domain of energy, I develop the concept of emergent energy structures from the most basic subatomic physics through the levels of cellular and biological complexity to the energy flows of the brain. In the domain of quanta I show how quantization is a natural consequence of energy absorption and that the mysterious Quantum Physics concepts of superposition of states and the collapse of the wave function are inherent properties of the human concept of probability as such, rather than of the underlying physical processes. In the domain of vision, I focus on the counterpoint between the complementary neural and conscious processes of perception, from primary sensory processing to propositional generation. The whole overview lays the philosophical foundations of neuroscience, which are rarely conceptualized in a complete analytic framework.   https://ski.org/users/christopher-tyler

Abstract: Behavior in the visually oriented world often goes along with scanning eye movements that have a tight relationship with attention. Movements of the eyes generally follow movements of attention which can be evoked by a visual stimulus (or cue). In a clinical setting, patients with restricted visual fields can learn to extend their field of view by making eye movements into the damaged part of their visual field. Examples are homonymous hemianopia and visual field restrictions, as in advanced glaucoma or retinitis pigmentosa. I’ve been involved in two studies showing that such patients can indeed learn to make eye movements that extend their functional field of view. The question is: How is this possible? How can attention be attracted by a stimulus they cannot see? There are two attentional mechanisms: Transient (TA, exogenous) and sustained (SA, endogenous) attention. TA requires a stimulus in the outside world, it is quick and reflex-like, while SA generated in the brain, is slow and under control of volition. Since TA depends on an external visual stimulus, it is not a candidate for guiding EMs into a blind part of the visual field. However, SA is not dependent on visual input, as it can be directed to an empty part of the visual field by an effort of will. This was already described by von Helmholtz in the late 19th century. SA has been researched extensively in humans and in primates and there are a variety of brain regions that evoke attentional orienting. I will discuss findings from experiments on the superior colliculus, the posterior parietal cortex, and the frontal eye fields. It is important to note that such consciously controlled EMs bring the intact fovea to the target location, which makes previously hidden objects visible. After the next EM, these objects may disappear again from the visual field but may persist in a remembered image of the visual surround that works with another time constant than primary vision. This way, goal-directed EMs could be made to targets that do not depend entirely on primary visual input.  This hypothetical mechanism could support  enlarging the field of view by learning. https://ski.org/users/manfred-mackeben 

Abstract: Adaptive optical elements, including lenses, prisms, occluders, and color filters, may create new opportunities for correction of presbyopia, treatment of amblyopia, strabismus, and color vision. These adaptive optical elements can be equipped with compact electronic drivers and controllers to form various kinds of smart eyewear for more efficient treatment. In addition, retinal scanning display eyewear could be an effective visual aid for AMD subjects. In this talk, we will discuss these new devices and explore potential collaborations. https://biophysics.osu.edu/site/faculty/faculty_d.php?id=142

Abstract: This informal discussion will provide a high-level overview of projects I’ve undertaken since my start at S-K as an RERC intern in 1998. Topics will include successful technology transfer projects, strategic partnerships with outside organizations, insights on accessibility themes and techniques, and plans for the future. Please bring your questions and observations for a stimulating conversation about Miele-style accessibility and vision rehabilitation. https://ski.org/users/joshua-miele