Visual discrimination and reversal learning in rough-necked monitor lizards (Varanus rudicollis).

Reptile learning has been studied with a variety of methods and has included numerous species. However, research on learning in lizards has generally focused on spatial memory and has been studied in only a few species. This study explored visual discrimination in two rough-necked monitors (Varanus rudicollis). Subjects were trained to discriminate between black and white stimuli. Both subjects learned an initial discrimination task as well as two reversals, with the second reversal requiring fewer sessions than the first. This reduction in trials required for reversal acquisition provides evidence for behavioral flexibility in the monitor lizard genus. (PsycINFO Database Record (c) 2011 APA, all rights reserved)     

2D silicon/ferroelectric liquid crystal spatial light modulators

We have developed a spatial light modulator technology based on foundry silicon fabrication processes. This technology employs a thin, ferroelectric liquid crystal light-modulating layer at the substrate's surface, producing electrically addressed display devices with resolutions up to 256×256 and frame rates up to 10 kHz. We have also fabricated optically addressed smart-pixel arrays for low-level image processing. Performance has advanced rapidly due to design innovations and effective use of modern process features