How to use the Research Module

What is the Research Module?

The Research Module is an advanced add-on feature for researchers and scientists who would like to quickly export large amounts of data so that they can perform customized analysis of the recorded eye and head movements. There are also several features and settings that are only available in this module.

Nystagmus parameters

This feature will work with any completed test with recorded eye movements.

Figure 1 – Completed nystagmus test

For example, on the above test, you can enter the temporary settings menu and adjust the parameters to accommodate your research protocol.

Figure 2 – Temporary Settings; Nystagmus Parameters

Once in the settings menu, you can adjust the parameters that are used in the nystagmus detection algorithm.

Figure 3 – Table of nystagmus detection parameters

Be careful when changing these values, as it will change the clinical values in the data graphs of the nystagmus test. These changes should only be utilized for research purposes.

Data export

When you have completed your testing, in the Summary Review, you can choose to export the raw eye movements data to a csv file that is readable by the Excel spreadsheet program for further analysis.

Figure 4 – Export data function

Figure 5 – Data export in progress

The data will be exported and organized into individual test folders.

Figure 6 – Individual file folders for exported data

Research laboratories can use MATLAB programs to organize and present the data in different formats.

Figure 7 – Export files in csv format

Refer to the "Research Module – Exported Data Properties” document for more detailed information regarding data export.

Diagonal OPK

In the OPK test, the research module offers an alternative stimulus option. This allows for the clinician to change the speed and direction of the OPK stimulus during the test. No specific analysis is completed on alternative stimuli choices.

Figure 8 – OPK test adjustments for speed and direction in the research module

Blinking Fixation Light

A blinking fixation light is available for use during all nystagmus tests. This allows for the clinician to cue the patient to direct their gaze towards primary position during tests, without suppression of the spontaneous or evoked nystagmus. This can be enabled by hovering over the tool bar by the video of the eyes and selecting the blinking fixation light.

Figure 9 – Selecting blinking fixation light from the toolbar in the research module

Caloric Irrigation Time

Researchers now have the option in protocol management to adjust the irrigator time based on the temperature.

Figure 10 – Adjusting duration for each temperature on irrigator settings