Introduction of a new AAC symbol classification system: the multidimensional quaternary symbol continuum (MQSC)

2021 ◽  
Vol ahead-of-print (ahead-of-print) ◽  
Author(s):  
Eliada Pampoulou ◽  
Donald R. Fuller
Keyword(s):  
Peer Review ◽  
Classification System ◽  
Augmentative And Alternative Communication ◽  
Social Issues ◽  
Content Type ◽  
Design Attributes ◽  
Wide Range ◽  
Current Classification ◽  
Symbol Classification

PurposeWhen the augmentative and alternative communication (ACC) model (Lloyd et al., 1990) was proposed, these components of symbols were not considered, nor were they contemplated when superordinate (Lloyd and Fuller, 1986) and subordinate levels (Fuller et al., 1992) of AAC symbol taxonomy were developed. The purpose of this paper is to revisit the ACC model and propose a new symbol classification system called multidimensional quaternary symbol continuum (MQSC)Design/methodology/approachThe field of AAC is evolving at a rapid rate in terms of its clinical, social, research and theoretical underpinnings. Advances in assessment and intervention methods, technology and social issues are all responsible to some degree for the significant changes that have occurred in the field of AAC over the last 30 years. For example, the number of aided symbol collections has increased almost exponentially over the past couple of decades. The proliferation of such a large variety of symbol collections represents a wide range of design attributes, physical attributes and linguistic characteristics for aided symbols and design attributes and linguistic characteristics for unaided symbols.FindingsTherefore, it may be time to revisit the AAC model and more specifically, one of its transmission processes referred to as the means to represent.Originality/valueThe focus of this theoretical paper then, is on the current classification of symbols, issues with respect to the current classification of symbols in terms of ambiguity of terminology and the evolution of symbols, and a proposal for a new means of classifying the means to represent.Peer reviewThe peer review history for this article is available at: https://publons.com/publon10.1108/JET-04-2021-0024

Detecting sarcasm in customer tweets: an NLP based approach

2017 ◽  
Vol 117 (6) ◽  
pp. 1109-1126 ◽  
Author(s):  
Shubhadeep Mukherjee ◽  
Pradip Kumar Bala
Keyword(s):  
Language Processing ◽  
Social Issues ◽  
Customer Management ◽  
Function Words ◽  
Content Type ◽  
Management Perspective ◽  
Supervised Learning Algorithms ◽  
Practical Implications ◽  
Incorrect Classification

Purpose The purpose of this paper is to study sarcasm in online text – specifically on twitter – to better understand customer opinions about social issues, products, services, etc. This can be immensely helpful in reducing incorrect classification of consumer sentiment toward issues, products and services. Design/methodology/approach In this study, 5,000 tweets were downloaded and analyzed. Relevant features were extracted and supervised learning algorithms were applied to identify the best differentiating features between a sarcastic and non-sarcastic sentence. Findings The results using two different classification algorithms, namely, Naïve Bayes and maximum entropy show that function words and content words together are most effective in identifying sarcasm in tweets. The most differentiating features between a sarcastic and a non-sarcastic tweet were identified. Practical implications Understanding the use of sarcasm in tweets let companies do better sentiment analysis and product recommendations for users. This could help businesses attract new customers and retain the old ones resulting in better customer management. Originality/value This paper uses novel features to identify sarcasm in online text which is one of the most challenging problems in natural language processing. To the authors’ knowledge, this is the first study on sarcasm detection from a customer management perspective.

Application of conjoint analysis to the optimum design for fabric printing patterns

2019 ◽  
Vol ahead-of-print (ahead-of-print) ◽  
Author(s):  
Chiahsu Lin ◽  
Ya-Ching Wang
Keyword(s):  
Conjoint Analysis ◽  
Optimum Design ◽  
Design Method ◽  
Group Discussions ◽  
Pattern Design ◽  
Content Type ◽  
Practical Applications ◽  
Design Attributes ◽  
Wide Range ◽  
Primary Pattern

Purpose The purpose of this paper is to construct the best combination of fabric printing pattern’s attributes to obtain the optimum design to meet the markets need. Design/methodology/approach This study reviewed the morphological analysis of fashion design expert groups regarding the fashionable fabric printing patterns, as well as the attribute preferences for different groups of fabric printing patterns through focus group discussions. In addition, the conjoint analysis was used to calculate the part-worth of these patterns’ design attributes and design levels to obtain the optimum design for fabric printing patterns. Findings The results of this study showed that the most importance of fabric attributes is the secondary pattern (32.59 percent), while the weights of shading element (24.80 percent) and primary pattern (24.46 percent) are almost the same. This study found that a wide range of intertwining image primary pattern can be applied to create interesting and popular fabric printing pattern designs. In practical applications of this result, when the primary pattern is supported by the buyer, fabric designers may use New Classic composite plants, with simple shading and different cycling configuration, to reproduce the optimum designs of the fabric printing patterns. Originality/value This proposed a novel solution to figure out the combination basis for optimizing fabric printing pattern designs. In addition, this result helps fabric printing pattern designers to establish an optimal design method for a specific brand to create a unique printing pattern design.

scholarly journals An Unbiased Method for Clustering Bacterial Effectors Using Host Cellular Phenotypes

2013 ◽  
Vol 80 (3) ◽  
pp. 1185-1196 ◽  
Author(s):  
Andrea J. Dowling ◽  
David J. Hodgson
Keyword(s):  
Significant Advance ◽  
Content Type ◽  
Cluster Group ◽  
Homology Searching ◽  
Wide Range ◽  
Novel Method ◽  
Cellular Phenotypes ◽  
Bacterial Effectors

ABSTRACTWe present a novel method implementing unbiased high-content morphometric cell analysis to classify bacterial effector phenotypes. This clustering methodology represents a significant advance over more qualitative visual approaches and can also be used to classify, and therefore predict the likely function of, unknown effector genes from any microbial genome. As a proof of concept, we use this approach to investigate 23 genetic regions predicted to encode antimacrophage effectors located across the genome of the insect and human pathogenPhotorhabdus asymbiotica. Statistical cluster analysis using multiple cellular measures categorized treated macrophage phenotypes into three major groups relating to their putative functionality: (i) adhesins, (ii) cytolethal toxins, and (iii) cytomodulating toxins. Further investigation into their effects on phagocytosis revealed that several effectors also modulate this function and that the nature of this modulation (increased or decreased phagocytosis) is linked to the phenotype cluster group. Categorizing potential functionalities in this way allows rapid functional follow-up of key candidates for more-directed cell biological or biochemical investigation. Such an unbiased approach to the classification of candidate effectors will be useful for describing virulence-related regions in a wide range of genomes and will be useful in assigning putative functions to the growing number of microbial genes whose function remains unclear from homology searching.

Video image analysis for on-line classification of lamb carcasses

1998 ◽  
Vol 67 (2) ◽  
pp. 311-316 ◽  
Author(s):  
K. Stanford ◽  
R. J. Richmond ◽  
S. D. M. Jones ◽  
W. M. Robertson ◽  
M. A. Price ◽  
...  
Keyword(s):  
Image Analysis ◽  
Classification System ◽  
Video Image ◽  
Meat Yield ◽  
Video Image Analysis ◽  
Current Classification ◽  
On Line ◽  
Waste Fat ◽  
Current Classification System

AbstractVideo image analysis (VIA), carcass shape and colour data were collected for 1211 lambs of known gender, breed type and carcass weight over a 1-week period using the VIAscan® system developed by the Australian Meat Research Corporation. Classification data (thickness of soft tissue over the 12th rib (GR measurement) and subjective conformation scores on a five-point scale of the leg, loin and shoulder) were assessed by an Agriculture and Agri-Food Canada grader after carcasses had chilled at 5°C for 3 to 6 h. Dissections into saleable meat yield (no. = 58) were performed after carcasses had chilled an additional 24 h. The timing of this study, which was dependent on availability of the VIA equipment, influenced the age and type of lambs available for analysis. The majority of lambs evaluated were wool-breed wethers, age > 10 months, of average GR (15·7 (s.d. 0·2) mm) and muscle conformation (3·0, s.d. 0·1). VIA improved the prediction of saleable meat yield (R2 = 0·71, residual s.d. = 14g/kg) compared with the current classification system (R2 = 0·52, residual s.d. = 18 g/kg). Although prediction ofGR measurement by VIA resulted in a large residual error (residual s.d. = 2·4 mm), the proportion of waste fat (perirenal and subcutaneous) and bone dissected from the carcass was accurately predicted (R2 = 0·62, residual s.d. = 11 g/kg). Proportions of leg (R2 = 0·71, residual s.d. = 7 g/kg) and shoulder (R2 = 0·62, residual s.d. = 9 g/kg) primals were also accurately predicted by VIA, although there were no significant predictors for the proportion of the loin (P > 0·15). VIA improved the prediction of saleable meat yield compared with the current classification system. However collection of additional data including some from extremely lean or well muscled animals would be required before VIA could be recommended to classify lamb carcasses

Exploring AAC graphic symbol choices: a preliminary study

2020 ◽  
Vol 14 (3) ◽  
pp. 171-185
Author(s):  
Eliada Pampoulou ◽  
Donald R. Fuller
Keyword(s):  
Clinical Judgment ◽  
Augmentative And Alternative Communication ◽  
Developmental Disorders ◽  
Online Survey ◽  
Professional Associations ◽  
Alternative Communication ◽  
Content Type ◽  
Graphic Symbols ◽  
Wide Range ◽  
Graphic Symbol

Purpose Graphic symbols have been used widely in the field of augmentative and alternative communication (AAC). The advancement of technology in recent years has stimulated their development even further, thereby providing speech-language pathologists (SLPs) a wide range of options to choose for the individuals they support. However, existing literature on graphic symbols is scant and clinicians must base their decisions almost solely on clinical judgment. This paper aims to investigate the factors SLPs consider when choosing corpuses of graphic symbols for their clients. Design/methodology/approach An online survey was used that allowed multiple-choice responses. Data were analyzed and presented primarily as percentages. Findings Most respondents used graphic symbols with people having developmental disorders, and the corpuses of symbols they drew upon were based predominantly on availability, characteristics of the individual’s impairment or disability and intelligibility to the user and his or her communication partners. Existing policies related to graphic symbols also influence clinicians’ choices. SLPs search for support mainly from professional associations and training providers. In terms of use with technology, ready-made symbol packages for clinicians to use were found to be attractive. Practical implications Professional associations and institutions that focus on AAC need to provide adequate support to clinicians with a foundation based on evidence-based practice. Originality/value To the best of the authors’ knowledge, this is the first research that focuses on current practices concerning the factors SLPs take into consideration when choosing the optimum graphic symbol corpus(es) for their clients.

Tourism demonstration system for large-scale museums based on 3D virtual simulation technology

2020 ◽  
Vol 38 (2) ◽  
pp. 367-381
Author(s):  
Yongcai Hu ◽  
Wei Sun ◽  
Xigang Liu ◽  
Quan Gan ◽  
Jie Shi
Keyword(s):  
Large Scale ◽  
Three Dimensional ◽  
Virtual Simulation ◽  
Simulation Technology ◽  
Large Space ◽  
Content Type ◽  
3D Network ◽  
Wide Range ◽  
3D Scene

Purpose The purpose of this study is to enhance audience experience in museum by using three-dimensional (3D) virtual simulation technology. Design/methodology/approach In this study, a large space museum building tourism demonstration system based on 3D virtual simulation technology was proposed. Starting from the concept of virtual reality (VR), the characteristics of VR and the classification of VR systems were introduced, and the research status of VR technology at home and abroad and the application of 3D virtual simulation were discussed. Then the key technologies of 3D modeling, 3D scene optimization and 3D simulation driving of 3D virtual simulation were expounded, and the characteristics and application scope of different technical methods were analyzed. Finally, an example of the Hongzhou Kiln 3D network museum was listed. Findings The research results showed that 3D virtual simulation has a wide range of applications in the field of VR. Different elements need to be considered for different types of applications, and different contents need to be integrated to achieve the corresponding interaction modes. Originality/value Virtual image; multimedia; large space museum; tourism demonstration system; 3D virtual simulation technology.

Adipose lesions of nerve: the need for a modified classification

2012 ◽  
Vol 116 (2) ◽  
pp. 418-431 ◽  
Author(s):  
Robert J. Spinner ◽  
Bernd W. Scheithauer ◽  
Kimberly K. Amrami ◽  
Doris E. Wenger ◽  
Marie-Noëlle Hébert-Blouin
Keyword(s):  
Literature Review ◽  
Classification System ◽  
Optimal Treatment ◽  
Conceptual Approach ◽  
Lipomatosis Of Nerve ◽  
Current Classification

Object Adipose lesions of nerve are rare and poorly understood. Their current classification, although not universally accepted, generally includes lipomatosis of nerve with or without localized macrodactyly, and intra- as well as extraneural lipoma. The authors believe that the spectrum of these lesions and their interrelationships are not currently appreciated. They propose an adaptation to the existing framework to illustrate the expanding spectrum of adipose lesions of nerve by considering lipomatosis and lipoma singly or in combination. Methods Fourteen representative cases are presented to demonstrate not only the intraneural and extraneural examples of lipomatosis and lipoma, but also their anatomical combinations. Results Based on the cases presented and a careful literature review, a conceptual approach to the classification of adipose lesions of nerve is generated. This approach incorporates the 2 essential lesions, lipomatosis of nerve and lipoma, in both their intra- and extraneural forms. This permits expansion to encompass combinations. Conclusions To press the concept that adipose tumors of nerve are a broad but interrelated spectrum of lesions, the authors propose modification of the present classification system. This approach provides an orderly platform for progress, reflects understanding of these interrelated lesions, and facilitates optimal treatment by distinguishing resectable from nonresectable components.

Community awareness raising on child sexual exploitation: possibilities and problems

2015 ◽  
Vol 14 (1) ◽  
pp. 4-15
Author(s):  
Sukhwant Dhaliwal ◽  
Kate D'Arcy ◽  
Roma Thomas
Keyword(s):  
Social Issues ◽  
Sexual Exploitation ◽  
Policy And Practice ◽  
Minority Communities ◽  
Content Type ◽  
Community Awareness ◽  
Child Sexual Exploitation ◽  
Wide Range ◽  
Awareness Raising ◽  
Targeted Messages

Purpose – A number of reports on child sexual exploitation (CSE) have pointed to the importance of community awareness raising as a preventative measure, a means of extending the reach of CSE services and widening the scope of social responsibility to protect children. However, little has been said about how to undertake such activities; how to do this well and the potential pitfalls to avoid. The purpose of this paper is to draw out critical questions about the notion of community and highlight what can be learnt from historical debates about multiculturalist practice. While the paper does not focus solely on ethnic minority communities, the authors do take stock of pertinent points from that literature in relation to issues of engagement, power and representation and applicable learning for awareness raising around CSE. In the second half of the paper, the authors consider the issue of awareness raising within communities. The authors draw on the limited literature on community awareness raising in CSE, contextualising this with reference to relevant learning from other pertinent bodies of work, to reflect on implications for practice. Design/methodology/approach – This is a conceptual paper based on a review of various bodies of literature. The first half reviews the literature about community, community engagement, and multiculturalism as policy and practice. The second half draws evidence from the literature on forms of awareness raising on CSE and other sensitive social issues to discuss implications for practice arising from the authors’ reflections on the literature. Findings – The review produces three key findings. First, the need to transfer historic insights into the limits of “community” and multiculturalism and apply these to the emergent field of CSE. Second, despite theoretical distinctions between “community” and “society”, evidence from the literature suggests that the term “community” is being applied more generally to refer to a wide range of events and practices. Third, the authors conclude with some points about what may work well for CSE professionals developing work in this field; that is, clear aims and objectives, nuanced approaches and targeted messages. Research limitations/implications – This is an under-researched area where there are currently no published evaluations of community awareness raising interventions for CSE. Effective evidence-based strategies for engaging communities are urgently needed for CSE prevention work to be extended in positive ways which protect those affected. Originality/value – This paper is original in drawing insights from historical debates about multiculturalist practice to inform thinking on community awareness raising on CSE. It makes a valuable contribution by bringing together insights from a number of distinct bodies of literature in ways which can inform practice.

scholarly journals Translating Research into Action: involving older people in co-producing knowledge about age-friendly neighbourhood interventions

2018 ◽  
Vol 22 (1) ◽  
pp. 39-47 ◽  
Author(s):  
Patty Doran ◽  
Tine Buffel
Keyword(s):  
Older People ◽  
Social Issues ◽  
Local Level ◽  
Content Type ◽  
Urban Neighbourhoods ◽  
The Social ◽  
Wide Range ◽  
Action Project ◽  
Social And Physical Environment

Purpose Developing what has been termed “age-friendly” cities has become a significant issue for public policy. To date, however, there is limited knowledge about how older people can be involved in the co-production of age-friendly initiatives. The Translating Research into Action project worked with a group of older co-researchers who examined the age-friendliness of their neighbourhood, with the aim of translating the findings into practice and policy recommendations that can help improve the quality of life of older people in urban neighbourhoods. The paper aims to discuss these issues. Design/methodology/approach This paper synthetises the data collected through focus groups, interviews conducted by co-researchers and a public dissemination event. The analysis focussed on identifying the suggestions for action and change that could improve the social and physical environment for older people in urban neighbourhoods. Findings Physical and social issues were found to be contingent on each other and mutually reinforcing, and should therefore not be considered in isolation. However, the findings highlighted physical environmental issues as a major concern; transport was a dominant overarching theme. Research limitations/implications Three key areas in need of improvement when developing local level age-friendly policies and practices are discussed: improving and diversifying communication and information; promoting accessibility; and, ensuring a range of meeting opportunities for different groups. Originality/value The paper illustrates how co-produced research can be translated into age-friendly interventions, and will be of interest to a wide range of local and (inter)national organisations wishing to research and provide advocacy to older people.

scholarly journals The performance of US-based emerging market mutual funds

2017 ◽  
Vol 1 (1) ◽  
pp. 58-73 ◽  
Author(s):  
Halil Kiymaz ◽  
Koray D. Simsek
Keyword(s):  
Mutual Funds ◽  
Mutual Fund ◽  
Emerging Market ◽  
Alternative Source ◽  
Content Type ◽  
Wide Range ◽  
Bull Markets ◽  
Bond Mutual Funds ◽  
Period Performance

Purpose The purpose of this paper is to examine the performance of US mutual funds that invest primarily in emerging market equities and bonds. Design/methodology/approach The study adopts the Morningstar classification of mutual funds and uses the Lipper US Mutual Fund Database through FactSet to obtain monthly returns and various metrics for emerging market equity and bond mutual funds covering the period from January 2000 to May 2017. Several descriptive statistics for these funds are reported as well as various risk-adjusted performance measures. Alphas are computed for different sub-periods using different factor models to mitigate potential biases. Findings The results show that diversified emerging market funds generate some significant alphas for their investors during the study period. Emerging market bond funds, on the other hand, do not provide any significant positive alphas; mostly alphas are negative. An analysis of sub-period performance suggests that these funds do not consistently provide excess returns, showing great variations from one period to another. Originality/value The emerging market funds provide US investors with an alternative source of exposure for their portfolios. Emerging markets differ from developed markets on a wide range of market and economic characteristics, including size, liquidity, and regulation. This study contributes to the scarce literature on these types of funds and provides a comprehensive performance assessment against various benchmarks during a period that encompasses significant bear and bull markets across the world.

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