A liquid crystal panel may include a layer with a plurality of rounded rectangular structures such as through vias of an active matrix layer. A loss of contrast may result from the illuminating light undergoing a Fresnel refraction by the rounded rectangular structures. In particular, rounded walls of the structures may rotate a direction of polarization of a linearly polarized illuminating light, causing light leakage in the black state of the panel. Reduction of the rounded portions of the vias may improve the overall contrast of the LC panel, as well as orienting the polarization of the impinging illuminating light to be parallel or perpendicular to the structures.