A Comparison Between Three Computer-Based Cone Specific Color Vision Tests.

INTRODUCTION: Computerized color contrast sensitivity (CS) tests that aim to determine presence, type, and severity of color vision deficiency have been developed and are available, but data on agreement between tests is lacking. The purpose of the present study was to determine data agreement between three computerized color vision tests.METHODS: A total of 50 subjects, 25 color vision normal (CVN) and 25 color vision deficient (CVD), were tested with the Konan CCT-HD®, NCI, and a modified version of the Innova CCT. Sensitivity and specificity were compared across systems as well as differences in log CS values and how these relate to standards used to classify occupational performance.RESULTS: Each test showed 100% sensitivity for detection of hereditary red-green CVDs as well as type (protan vs. deutan). Each test showed 100% specificity for confirming normal red-green color vision in CVNs. Innova CCT and NCI showed 100% specificity in CVNs and CVDs for S cone CS. Konan CCT-HD® showed 96% specificity in CVNs and 92% in CVDs for S cone CS.DISCUSSION: These findings indicate that each test reliably identifies hereditary CVD and confirms normal color vision. However, the three tests differ slightly in log CS values used to determine pass/fail scores of red-green color vision using a 100-point scale, and all show that protans consistently score lower than deutans on cone CS. Hence, depending on the criterion used in occupational settings, a single score may not prove equitable for individuals who have a protan deficiency.Lovell J, Rabin J. A comparison between three computer-based cone specific color vision tests. Aerosp Med Hum Perform. 2023; 94(2):54-58.

Hue discrimination in jewellery appraisers exceeds normal performance.

PURPOSE: The FM-100 Hue test is used for vocational purposes where hue discrimination is of the upmost importance, such as in jewellery appraisals where small errors in hue discrimination can lead to significant differences in gemstone valuation. The purpose of this study was to determine if the cone contrast test (CCT) could predict performance on the FM-100 Hue, providing a potential alternative test for screening of jewellery appraisers. METHODS: Members of the National Association of Jewelry Appraisers (NAJA; n = 18, ages 34 to 76 years) requiring colour vision certification with the FM-100 Hue were invited to participate in a study to assess performance on the Ishihara test, FM-100 Hue, Lanthony Desaturated D-15 and the CCT. The FM-100 Hue test was administered to award or renew NAJA certification, while the CCT was included as a possible alternative certification test. RESULTS: Average CCT M and S cone scores were predictive of FM-100 Hue total error score (TES: F1,16  = 7.77, p < 0.02; r2  = 0.33). The regression equation indicates that a CCT score of <60 is 3SD below the mean TES in our cohort of jewellery appraisers. Seventeen of 18 jewellery appraisers had FM-100 Hue TES scores significantly below the lower limit for age-matched normal values, indicating exceptional performance (p < 0.001). CONCLUSIONS: Results indicate the CCT may be an effective substitute for the FM-100 Hue to provide certification of jewellery appraisers, but the small sample size warrants additional comparative validation to support sole utilisation of the CCT. It is of interest that this sample of jewellery appraisers showed lower (i.e., better) than normal TES scores despite mitigating senescence factors. It is conceivable that the enhanced jewellery appraisers' hue discrimination reflects perceptual learning, wherein reward-based repetition on specific tasks can improve performance, even in adulthood beyond critical periods.