bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
“Sizing Up” Emerging Technology for Firefighting: Augmented Reality for Incident Assessment
Authors: Kapalo Katelynn A. , Bockelman Patricia , LaViola Joseph J.
Published: September 2018

Every year, structure fires account for billions of dollars in property damage and injuries to firefighters and civilians. Emerging technologies, such as augmented and virtual reality (AR/VR) have been identified to assist in mitigating the loss of life and property, but they have not been fully evaluated. The goal of this work is to clearly identify how AR can enhance fire suppression operations by mapping feedback from a needs assessment conducted with firefighters to the areas where technology could be leveraged to support an initial incident assessment ( size up), demonstrating the practical use of AR for the fire service.
Analysis of Eddy Current: What Can Be Done to Reduce the Number of False Positives and False Negatives Made by Human Operators in Nondestructive Testing?
Authors: Arbab Yasmin , Nathan-Roberts Dan
Published: September 2018

This work identifies the potential for improving the reliability of nondestructive testing (NDT) in the aviation industry. This particular work is focused on a piece of equipment called eddy current scanner and specifically investigates how this instrument, used to detect cracks on aircraft components, could be improved to better fit human needs and capabilities. Current research shows us that Type I and Type II errors, also known as false negatives and false positives, made by operators of the eddy current are in part due to workspace conditions, physical positioning, and mental states greatly affecting the amount of cognitive resources left available to perform a job accurately and reliably. Potential solutions that are within the realm of eddy current’s design and possible enhancements are presented.
Utility of Visual and Auditory Warning Alerting for Traffic Avoidance during UAS Operations
Authors: Monk Kevin J. , Fern Lisa , Rorie R. Conrad , Roberts Zachary
Published: September 2018

Minimum Operational Performance Standards (MOPS) are being developed to support the integration of Unmanned Aircraft Systems (UAS) in the National Airspace System (NAS). Input from subject matter experts and multiple research studies have informed display requirements for Detect-and-Avoid (DAA) systems aimed at supporting timely and appropriate pilot responses to collision hazards. DAA alerting is designed to inform pilots of potential threats to “DAA well clear”; the two highest alert levels – caution and warning – indicate how soon pilot action is required and whether there is adequate time to coordinate with the air traffic controller (ATC). Additional empirical support is needed to clarify the extent to which warning-level alerting impacts DAA task performance. The present study explores the differential effects of the auditory and visual cues provided by the DAA Warning alert, and performance implications compared to caution-only alerting are discussed.
Assessment Function Analysis of Human-Automation Team Performance: A reanalysis of data from Yamani and McCarley (2018)
Authors: Zinn Cara M. , Yamani Yusuke , Houpt Joseph W. , Scott-Sharoni Sidney
Published: September 2018

Yamani and McCarley (2018) used workload capacity analysis to quantify automation usage strategy in a speeded length-judgment task and showed that operators delayed their responses under difficult task conditions. Contrary to predictions of the proximity compatibility principle, the results showed comparable operator performance between displays that embedded the aid’s decisional cue within the stimuli and those that did not, depending on task difficulty. This study reanalyzes the data of Yamani and McCarley (2018) employing functional principal component analysis of assessment functions (Townsend & Altieri, 2012) that combines both response times and accuracy for an analysis of workload capacity conditional to accuracy. The results indicate two components, early and late RT periods, both increased workload capacity and suggest that the integrated display may speed operator responses only under easy task conditions. Applied implications of the results are discussed.
Augmenting Fine Motor Skill Training with Haptic Error Amplification
Authors: Clamann Michael , Kaber David B.
Published: September 2018

This work compared two methods to augment fine motor skill training using haptic control, including techniques that guide (e.g., virtual fixtures) and challenge the trainee (e.g., error amplification). A prototype system capable of displaying virtual fixtures or error amplification during a writing task was evaluated to determine the extent to which performance in each condition transfers to an unassisted test condition. An experiment comparing training effects was executed in which participants were trained to draw a series of letters from a foreign alphabet with the non-dominant hand. The results showed that task accuracy when training with virtual fixtures did not transfer to an unassisted test condition. Training with error amplification, in contrast, increased accuracy in unaided test trials. These findings suggest that amplifying errors may be used to accelerate fine motor training for unimpaired individuals.
Noticing Extroversion Effects Attention: How Robot and Participant Personality Affect Gaze Cueing
Authors: Momen Ali , Wiese Eva
Published: September 2018

Social robots with expressive gaze have positive effects on human-robot interaction. In particular, research suggests that when robots are programmed to express introverted or extroverted gaze behavior, individuals enjoy interacting more with robots that match their personality. However, how this affects social-cognitive performance during human-robot interactions has not been thoroughly examined yet. In the current paper, we examine whether the perceived match between human and robot personality positively affects the degree to which the robot’s gaze is followed (i.e., gaze cueing, as a proxy for more complex social-cognitive behavior). While social attention has been examined extensively outside of human-robot interaction, recent research shows that a robot’s gaze is attended to in a similar way as a human’s gaze. While our results did not support the hypothesis that gaze cueing would be strongest when the participant’s personality matched the robot’s personality, we did find evidence that participants followed the gaze of introverted robots more strongly than the gaze of extroverted robots. This finding suggests that agent’s displaying extroverted gaze behavior may hurt performance in human-robot interaction.
Toward Strategic Training on Reading the Mind in the Eyes
Authors: Ouverson Kaitlyn M. , Stonewall Jacklin , Gilbert Stephen B. , Dorneich Michael C.
Published: September 2018

The Reading the Mind in the Eyes (RME) test was originally developed to help distinguish between persons with and without autism (Baron-Cohen et al., 2001). Recently the RME test has been shown to relate to a collective intelligence, defined as the ability of a group to perform a wide variety of tasks (Woolley et al., 2010). While these previous results may suggest that the RME measures a pre-determined ability it is an open question of whether RME test scores can be improved by strategically training participants to recognize the mental states of individuals from their faces. Preliminary work was done to develop training materials, specifically developing a set of RME-like practice questions. By documenting these efforts, this paper offers researchers an aide to developing their own materials related to the RME test. Future work will use these training materials to answer the question of whether RME scores can be improved through training, and how that may correlate with improved collective intelligence.
Error Probabilities and Relationships in Assembly and Maintenance of Aircraft Engines
Authors: Richards Brandon D.
Published: September 2018

Aircraft engine maintenance errors recorded during commercial revenue operation (field operation) share common causes and outcomes as those documented in original equipment manufacturer (OEM) and maintenance repair and overhaul (MRO) facilities. Utilizing data from one or more one of these sources can increase the understanding of skill-based, decision and perceptual errors occurring during assembly, operation and maintenance. The null hypothesis in this descriptive, explanatory research is: the nominal human error probability of removing and replacing a specified line replaceable unit (LRU)/component in field operations and OEM/MRO is the same. Quantitative analysis will include probabilities of human error for specific processes in both field operations and MRO/OEM environments determined by the Human Error Assessment and Reduction Technique (HEART). Qualitative analysis will include the classification of past errors utilizing the Human Factors Classification and Analysis System (HFACS). Accounting for all available types of data enables more precise and appropriate corrective actions.
Characteristics that Influence Perceived Intelligence in AI Design
Authors: Krening Samantha , Feigh Karen M.
Published: September 2018

A goal of interactive machine learning (IML) is to create robots or intelligent agents that can be easily taught how to perform tasks by individuals with no specialized training. To achieve that goal, researchers and designers must understand how certain design decisions impact the human’s experience of teaching the agent, such as influencing the agent’s perceived intelligence. We posit that the type of feedback a robot can learn from affects the perceived intelligence of the robot, similar to its physical appearance. This study investigated two methods of natural language instruction: critique and action advice. We conducted a human-in-the-loop experiment in which people trained two agents with different teaching methods but, unknown to each participant, the same underlying machine learning algorithm. The results show an agent that learns from binary good/bad critique is perceived as less intelligent than an agent that can learn from action instructions, even if the underlying machine learning agent is the same. In addition to the complexity of the input, other design characteristics we found that influence the agent’s perceived intelligence are: compliance, responsiveness, effort, transparency, and robustness.
Human-Agent Interactions: Does Accountability Matter in Interactive Control Automation?
Authors: Salehi Pouria , Chiou Erin K. , Wilkins Adam
Published: September 2018

In human-automation systems, where high situation awareness is associated with better decision-making, understanding accountability may be crucial to preventing automation complacency. In supervisory control automation, there is some evidence that accountability increases human-automation performance; however, with increasingly intelligent automated agents, human-agent work relationships may resemble more interactive control compared to supervisory control. We investigate the effects of social accountability in a simulated joint task environment and hypothesize that people under an accountability condition would cooperate more with an automated agent than people under a non-accountability condition, in a shared cognitive task. Results from our study support this hypothesis. However, for the accountability group, people’s performance in terms of units processed was lower, and this group also self-reported lower performance and attentional control, with higher frustration. These findings indicate that accountability may slow the decision-making process through added pressure, with some costs to short term efficiency.
A New Approach for a Real-Time Non-Invasive Fatigue Assessment System for Automated Driving
Authors: Feldhütter Anna , Feierle Alexander , Kalb Luis , Bengler Klaus
Published: September 2018

Vehicles with conditional automation will be introduced to the market in the next few years. However, the effect of fatigue as one component of the driver state on the take-over performance still needs to be quantified. To examine this question, a valid, real-time capable and preferably non-invasive method for assessing fatigue while driving automatically is required. For this purpose, we developed an objective driver fatigue assessment system based on the data of a commercial remote eye-tracking system. The fatigue assessment system fuses various metrics based on eyelid opening and head movement. In a validation study with 12 participants in a driving simulator, the fatigue assessment system achieved a sensitivity of 90.0 % and a specificity of 99.2 %. This approach makes a fatigue-state-dependent study design possible and can also provide a basis for advancing existing fatigue assessment systems in automated vehicles.
How Should I Choose My Dentist? A Preliminary Study Investigating the Effectiveness of Decision Aids on Healthcare Online Review Portals
Authors: Khasawneh Amro , Ponathil Amal , Firat Ozkan Necmettin , Chalil Madathil Kapil
Published: September 2018

Information on healthcare providers on the internet can be found in both public reports and/or anecdotal comments. Healthcare consumers rely more on the anecdotal comments than public reports as they are easier to understand, more engaging and convincing. However, the anecdotal comments can be misleading as they are based on a relatively smaller and less representative sample. Hence, it’s important to understand how users make sense of the anecdotal information and define the factors that influence their decisions. This study utilized the domain of dentistry, focusing on how the nature of the review and other decision aids affect the sensemaking process of healthcare seekers. We conducted a mixed-method study with twenty participants, finding the nature of the review (the text) to be the most influential factor and the wait time to be the least contributing factor in the decision.
An Investigation of the Usability Issues of a Family Health History Compiling Application
Authors: Ponathil Amal , Ozkan Necmettin Firat , Bertrand Jeffrey , Welch Brandon , Madathil Kapil Chalil
Published: September 2018

Family health history is considered a useful indicator for early detection or prediction of an individual’s risk for chronic diseases. There are several ways to collect these data, one of which is through online tools. Usability of these applications is vital since they have to serve a diverse user population including different age groups and levels of education. This study investigated the usability issues of a widely used computer-based family history collection tool, the Surgeon General's My Family Health Portrait. A total of 20 participants completed the experimental study. Based on a pre-defined and fictional script, the users completed 5 tasks on the application: 1) creating a user profile, 2) adding family health history, 3) re-accessing the application, 4) editing the information, and 5) sharing the information. Participants reported issues in getting back to the home page (opening screen) and with the excessive number of written instructions on the screen.
Time Flies: Investigating Duration Judgments in Virtual Reality
Authors: Volante William G. , Cruit Jessica , Tice James , Shugars William , Hancock Peter A.
Published: September 2018

Virtual reality is becoming increasingly popular in today’s society. With this proliferation it becomes even more important to study the effects such environments may have on one’s perception of reality. Two pilot studies were run in order to provide insight into the relationship between time perception and flow in a virtual environment. In Experiment 1 participants played a music-oriented virtual game for 2 minutes. In Experiment 2 participants played a space-shooter virtual game for 5 minutes. Duration Judgment Ratio (DJR) and Flow State Scale (FSS-2) measures were taken and compared to one another. Though a relationship between DJR and Flow was not found in each experiment individually, insights gained from the comparison of the two experiments may provide additional understandings. The results of this pilot study could aid researchers in developing objective ways to measure components of flow especially with respect to virtual environments. Additional insights and applications are discussed.
A Preliminary Study to Investigate the Sensemaking Process of UAV Reports by Operators after Periods of Disconnect for Threat Assessment
Authors: Rogers Hunter , Al Ghalayini Maher , Madathil Kapil Chalil
Published: September 2018

Teleoperated robots have been used to minimize human presence and interaction in dangerous or difficult areas or to enhance human capabilities. One of the challenges that still needs investigation is human-robot communication regarding making decisions based on extracted information. As such, the purpose of this research is to address issues of decision making after communication disconnections through interface design by focusing on improving sensemaking. Analyzing the effects of interface design in a UAV threat assessment scenario is ideal to examine not only the sensemaking process but also how that process defines decision making in an environment where efficient decision making and low clutter displays are needed. The data from this study will serve determine elements of an optimal interface for information assimilation. Twenty participants were recruited to complete a series of sixteen threat assessment decisions with different interface designs, varying amounts of information and layouts of information. It was observed that level of detailed information had a significant effect on the subjective trust and decision selected and display layout had a significant effect on the time taken to complete a decision.
Effects of Warning Characteristics on Driver Performance in Connected Vehicle Systems with Missing Warnings
Authors: Zhang Yiqi , Wu Changxu , Qiao Chunming , Hou Yunfei
Published: September 2018

The connected vehicle systems (CVS) aim to provide drivers with information in a timely and reliable way to improve transportation safety. With the emerging wireless communication technologies, the vehicles will be equipped with the ability to communicate with each other about the surrounding traffic situations by exchanging vehicle status and motion data via Dedicated Short-Range Communications (DSRC) network (Kenney, 2011).

With the assistance of the cooperative collision warnings, the impact of designed warning parameters on driver performance is increasingly important. Existing empirical studies have studied the warning timing and warning reliability in determining the effectiveness of the collision warning systems in advanced driver assistance systems (ADAS). In terms of warning timing, the studies in reached consistent conclusions that early warnings induced more timely braking and longer braking process, resulted in higher trust of the warning systems, and reduced collision rates (for example, Abe & Richardson, 2006a; Lee, McGehee, Brown, & Reyes, 2002; Yan, Xue, Ma, & Xu, 2014; Yan, Zhang, & Ma, 2015; Wan, Wu, and Zhang, 2016). In terms of the warning reliability, research has shown that warnings with a higher reliability increased driver’s trust of the warning systems, led to higher frequency in warning responses, and reduced crash rates (for example, Abe, Itoh, & Yamamura, 2009; Bliss & Acton, 2003; Maltz & Shinar, 2007; Sullivan, Tsimhoni, & Bogard, 2008). However, the interaction effects of warning lead time and warning reliability on driver performance was not examined especially under the connected vehicle settings.

The current research investigated the interaction effects of warning lead time (2.5s vs. 4.5s), warning reliability (73% vs. 89%), and speech warning style (command vs. notification) on driver performance and subjective evaluation of warnings in CVS. A driving simulator study with thirty-two participants was conducted to simulate a connected vehicle environment with missing warnings due to the failures in the data transmission within the communication network of the CVS.

The results showed command warnings led to a smaller collision rate compared to notification warnings with the warning lead time of 2.5s, whereas notification warnings resulted in a smaller collision rate compared to command warning with the warning lead time of 4.5s. These results suggested notification warnings should be selected when warning lead time is longer and warning reliability is higher, which resulted in higher safety benefits and higher subjective ratings. Command warnings could be selected when warning lead time is shorter since they led to more safety benefits.

However, such selection has to be made with caution since command warnings may limit drivers’ response type and were perceived as less helpful than notification warnings.
Ground Vehicle Driving Aids: Assessing Driver Workload and Performance in Degraded Visual Environments
Authors: Riegner Kayla L. , Ammori Jennifer , O’Hearn Brian E. , Steelman Kelly S.
Published: September 2018

To enable indirect-driving maneuverability and threat detection in degraded visual environments (DVE), TARDEC’s ground DVE program is developing and testing a range of sensors and driver aid display systems. The current paper presents the first in a series of three simulator studies. It examined driver performance with two of the candidate driving aids, the Lane/Road Departure Warning System (LRDWS) and Optic Flow Enhancer (OFE), in three levels of degraded visual environment. Results indicated that the LRDWS best supported drivers in degraded visual environments, eliciting the lowest workload ratings and highest system usability ratings and facilitating faster driving in severe DVE conditions, with no apparent speed-accuracy tradeoff.
80 MPH and out-of-the-loop: Effects of real-world semi-automated driving on driver workload and arousal
Authors: Biondi Francesco N. , Lohani Monika , Hopman Rachel , Mills Sydney , Cooper Joel M. , Strayer David L.
Published: September 2018

The introduction of semi-automated driving systems is expected to mitigate the safety consequences of human error. Observational findings suggest that relinquishing control of vehicle operational control to assistance systems might diminish driver engagement in the driving task, by reducing levels of arousal. In this study, drivers drove a Tesla Model S with Autopilot in both semi-automated and manual modes. Driver behavior was monitored using a combination of physiological and behavioral measures. Compared to manual driving, a reduction in driver physiological activation was observed during semi-automated driving. Also, performance to the peripheral detection task suffered in semi-automated mode, with slower response times recorded in this condition than during manual driving. Taken together, our data suggest that semi-automated driving might not ease safety consequences of human error. Instead, these findings suggest it might cause a drop in driver monitoring, possibly followed by a spike in automation-generated distraction.
Effect of Driver Age and Distance Guide Sign Format on Driver Attention Allocation and Performance
Authors: Zahabi Maryam , Machado Patricia , Lau Mei , Deng Yulin , Pankok Carl , Hummer Joseph , Rasdorf William , Kaber David
Published: September 2018

Although several studies have assessed the effect of business logo sign format on driver visual attention and performance, some concern has been expressed that findings may not be generalizable to other signage configurations. We conducted a driving simulation study to assess the effect of distance guide sign format on visual attention allocation, target detection accuracy, and driving performance considering driver demographics. Results revealed distance guide sign format, including random or distance-ordered presentation of destinations, to have no impact on driver visual attention, target identification, and vehicle control. However, elderly drivers had difficulty in identifying targets when destinations were presented in random order. In addition, elderly drivers exhibited conservative responses (i.e., reduced off-road visual attention and greater speed reductions) as compared to other age groups when exposed to distance guide signs. Findings support design guidance for on-road signage to account for driver demographics.
Calibration in Older and Middle-aged Drivers: Relationship between Subjective and Objective Glance Performance at Complex Intersections
Authors: Unverricht James , Yamani Yusuke , Horrey William J.
Published: September 2018

Older drivers are an at-risk population for automobile crashes, especially at intersections. Intersection maneuvers demand a series of motor and visual responses executed at specific proximities and timings during a turn. Previous research indicates that older drivers are more likely than middle-aged drivers to neglect anticipatory glances to areas where latent hazards could materialize at intersections. Calibration, which reflects the degree of agreement (or discordance) between a driver’s self-perception of their driving ability and their actual ability, might be a factor that drives the age-related differences in visual scanning at intersections. This study examined relationships between eye movement patterns while driving through intersection scenarios in a medium-fidelity simulator and their subjective performance scores for middle-aged and older drivers. The data indicated no difference in calibration scores between older and middle-aged drivers. However, data showed that older drivers with higher subjective performance executed fewer secondary glances: this pattern was not present for middle aged drivers. Further research is necessary to identify psychological mechanisms involving driver calibration that control the age-related declines in anticipatory glance behavior at intersections.
Evaluation and Validation of Distraction Detection Algorithms on Multiple Data Sources
Authors: Mehrotra Shashank Kumar , Zhang Fangda , Roberts Shannon C.
Published: September 2018

Many researchers have developed algorithms to detect distraction, but they have yet to be validated on multiple data sources. This study aims to evaluate these algorithms by comparing their ability to detect distraction and predict event likelihood. Four algorithms that use measures of cumulative glance, past glance behavior, and glance eccentricity were used to understand the distracted state of the driver and were validated on two separate data sources: naturalistic and experimental data. Results showed that there was a higher likelihood of event detection when cumulative glances were considered. Glance eccentricity was best for predicting distraction. Future research can use these findings to design mitigation systems that give drivers feedback in instances of high crash likelihood.
Dismounted Utility Considerations for Designing Human Factors and Ergonomics Evaluations of Soldier Clothing and Equipment
Authors: Davis Sheena E. , F.Milanese Steve , Furnell Alistair , Grimmer Karen A.
Published: September 2018

When designing Human Factors and Ergonomics evaluations, in addition to considering validity and reliability, it is important to ensure that measures and methodologies have utility for the chosen application. Ensuring utility requires consideration of domain specific aspects including practicality, feasibility, and access to users. The intention of this paper is to describe the process and outcome of deriving a series of considerations that can be used by Human Factors/Ergonomics practitioners when designing an evaluation of soldier clothing and equipment to help ensure that it is useful and practical for the dismounted domain. The aim is to help with dissemination of knowledge that is obtained by practitioners during their careers and forms a foundation that other practitioners can augment with their own experience.
Me and My VE, Part 5: Applications in Human Factors Research and Practice
Authors: Spain Randall , Goldberg Benjamin , Hansberger Jeffrey , Griffith Tami , Flynn Jeremy , Garneau Christopher , Shorter Paul , Sinatra Anne , Key Phillip , Finseth Tor
Published: September 2018

Recent advances in technology have made virtual environments, virtual reality, augmented reality, and simulations more affordable and accessible to researchers, companies, and the general public, which has led to many novel use cases and applications. A key objective of human factors research and practice is determining how these technology-rich applications can be designed and applied to improve human performance across a variety of contexts. This session will demonstrate some of the distinct and diverse uses of virtual environments and mixed reality environments in an alternative format. The session will begin with each demonstrator providing a brief overview of their virtual environment (VE) and a description of how it has been used to address a particular problem or research need. Following the description portion of the session, each VE will be set-up at a demonstration station in the room, and session attendees will be encouraged to directly interact with the virtual environment and ask demonstrators questions about their research and inquire about the effectiveness of using VE for research, training, and evaluation purposes. The overall objective of this alternative session is to increase the awareness of how human factors professionals use VE technologies and increase the awareness of the capabilities and limitations of VE in supporting the work of HF professionals.
Pedestrians receptivity in autonomous vehicles: Exploring a video-based assessment
Authors: Deb Shuchisnigdha , Hudson Christopher R. , Carruth Daniel W. , Frey Darren
Published: September 2018

Pedestrian receptivity toward autonomous vehicles (AVs) usually depends on the extent to which they receive indication of the vehicle’s intended action. Previous studies have typically used overt subjective measures (trust measures, ratings, etc.) and few objective measures (walking speed, waiting time, etc.) to identify external features that can improve pedestrians’ receptivity toward AVs. The current study aims to evaluate pedestrians’ behavioral measures of receptivity based on their body (head and foot) movements as they experience an AV in a virtual traffic environment. Videos of pedestrians at a virtual crosswalk, interacting with an AV that was equipped with an external feature indicating different operator statuses were coded. The operator statuses used in this study included: no driver, attentive driver, and distracted driver. The external features used were: no feature, upraised hand, stop sign, walking silhouette, walk in text, music, and a verbal message. Pedestrian body movements were derived from the video to determine frequency for looking at the approaching vehicle while crossing and stops after initiating crossing. Average durations for initiating crossing after signal were calculated. For no feature condition, the waiting time was calculated when participants observed the car. Data were compared with pedestrians’ self-reported ratings for receptivity to investigate body movements’ sensitivity to participants’ receptivity level. Results suggest body movements are sensitive to individual differences in reported receptivity. Future work should further examine the utility of this behavioral metric by further examining situational differences.
Network Anomaly Analysis using the Microsoft HoloLens
Authors: Beitzel Steve , Dykstra Josiah , Toliver Paul , Youzwak Jason
Published: September 2018

We investigate the feasibility of using Microsoft HoloLens, a mixed reality device, to visually analyze network capture data and locate anomalies. We developed MINER, a prototype application to visualize details from network packet captures as 3D stereogram charts. MINER employs a novel approach to time-series visualization that extends the time dimension across two axes, thereby taking advantage of the immersive 3D space available via the HoloLens. Users navigate the application through eye gaze and hand gestures to view summary and detailed bar graphs. Callouts display additional detail based on the user’s immediate gaze. In a user study, volunteers used MINER to locate network attacks in a dataset from the 2013 VAST Challenge. We compared the time and effort with a similar test using traditional tools on a desktop computer. Our findings suggest that network anomaly analysis with the HoloLens achieved comparable effectiveness, efficiency and satisfaction. We describe user metrics and feedback collected from these experiments; lessons learned and suggested future work.
State feedback control aware stochastic transmitting latency in cyber-physical power system
Authors: Ji Hao , Wang Meng , Yang Ting , Zhao Junjie
Published: September 2018

Distributed sensor networks with a great number of sensors realize information gathering, transmitting, and controlling, which will greatly improve the reliability and efficiency of industrial infrastructure systems, such as cyber-physical power system. Cyber-physical power system is one of the heuristic systems tightly coupled by a continuous-time electrical power system and a discrete-time information system. The transmitting latency, packets disorder, or loss will fail system convergence, even unstable under disturbance. This article studies the effect of long latency on cyber-physical power system frequency stability based on network control theory and establishes a heuristic model to express the continuous-time distributed generation system and the discrete-time distributed sensor network. A new state feedback controller is designed based on the stochastic optimal control theory to solve the micro-grid’s frequency stability problem with stochastic latency disturbance. Finally, we have conducted an extensive evaluation study using a real distributed generation micro-grid system. The simulation results show that the new controller reduces the influence of distributed sensor networks transmitting latency on the frequency stability, and the frequency dynamic process in the distributed generation micro-grid has smaller overshoot and obtains faster dynamic response speed.
Distributed parameter estimation in wireless sensor networks in the presence of fading channels and unknown noise variance
Authors: Liu Shoujun , Liu Kezhong , Ma Jie , Chen Wei
Published: September 2018

Parameter estimation is one of the most important research areas in wireless sensor networks. In this study, we consider the problem of estimating a deterministic parameter over fading channels with unknown noise variance. Owing to the bandwidth constraints in wireless sensor networks, sensor observations are quantized and subsequently transmitted to the fusion center. Two types of communication channels are considered, namely, parallel-access channels and multiple-access channels. Based on the knowledge of channel statistics, the power of the received signals at the fusion center can be described by the mode of the exponential mixture distribution. The expectation maximization algorithm is used to determine maximum likelihood solutions for this mixture model. A new estimator based on the expectation maximization algorithm is subsequently proposed. Simulation results show that this estimator exhibits superior performance compared to the method of moments estimator in both parallel- and multiple-access schemes. In addition, we determine that the parallel-access scheme outperforms the multiple-access scheme when the noise variance is small and it loses its superiority when the noise variance is large.
Numerical simulation and experimental testing of dynamic stiffness of angular contact ball bearing
Authors: Luo Haitao , Fu Jia , Yu Changshuai , Liu Guangming , Wang Wei , Wang Peng
Published: September 2018

Angular contact ball bearings are widely used in the multiple rotor system, such as gear box, machine tool spindle, and aero-engine rotors. The support stiffness is very important to the vibration of shafting. In order to obtain the dynamic stiffness, a numerical simulation method for dynamic stiffness of angular contact ball bearings is presented. By means of LS-DYNA software, the displacement and stress curves of the bearing’s different components are obtained successfully, and then, the dynamic stiffness of bearing under certain working conditions also can be calculated. The maximum envelope radius of the inner ring of the measured bearing can be taken as the relative displacement change value of the inner and outer rings of the bearing. To obtain the dynamic stiffness, the test strategy for dynamic stiffness of the angular contact ball bearings is introduced. The experimental results show that the equivalent dynamic stiffness increases with the increase in the preload of measured bearing under certain conditions. The simulation result coincides with the experiments well. The research work can provide the basis for the design and dynamics analysis of the bearing rotor system and have important engineering significance to improve the service performance of angular contact ball bearings.
Experimental and numerical investigations of the ball-screw-type coupling in two-dimensional electro-hydraulic proportional directional valve
Authors: Zuo Qiang , Sun Jialei , Lu Qianqian , Ruan Jian
Published: September 2018

To realize rotary and linear motions of a single spool for improving a proportional displacement of the spool, a new structure of ball screw compression–torsion coupling is proposed, which is used in the two-dimensional electro-hydraulic proportional directional valve. Its principal is based on changing the spiral angle of the raceway to magnify the thrust of a wet proportional electromagnet and realize the rotary to linear motion of a single spool. In addition, because of the rolling friction instead of the sliding friction, the friction resistance is reduced. The mathematical model of the valve is established and the characteristics of the valve are simulated and analyzed by MATLAB. Theoretical and experimental results show that the no-load hysteresis of the ball screw compression–torsion coupling is up to 1% under the flutter compensation. At the system pressure of 21 MPa, the flow hysteresis of the valve is less than 5%, and the nonlinear degrees of the input displacement of electromagnet and the output displacement of the valve core are both less than 1%. The width of the valve corresponding to −3 dB and −90° is about 12 Hz, and the step response time of the valve is about 0.45 s without overshoot.
Fears, hopes and the politics of time-space: The media frames of Japan in the Chinese People's Daily
Authors: Guan Tianru , Liu Tianyang
Published: September 2018

Based on a qualitative content analysis of 15 years of media coverage of Japan in the most comprehensive and influential official media, the Chinese People's Daily newspaper, this article argues that the framing of Japan by the People's Daily was produced and rearticulated by the combinations of, and changes in, different geostrategic discourses, referred to in this article as the discourses of ‘geopolitical fears’ and ‘geoeconomic hopes’. These discourses in the framing of Japan by the People's Daily are further rearticulated and reinterpreted in terms of plural constructions of time (progress, decline and cycle). Drawing on a spatio-temporal analytical framework, the article presents a counterargument to the prevailing view that assumes that the framing strategies of China towards Japan are focused on issues of conflict, threat and fear. Rather, the results showed that it was through the alignment and balance of the discourses of geopolitical fears and geoeconomic hopes in a heterogeneous construction of time(s) that the image(s) of Japan emerged in Chinese media.
Controlled drugs
Authors: Fahami Radia
Published: September 2018

A controlled drug (CD) is a prescribed medication that is governed by the Misuse of Drugs Legislation. This article will explore the legislation and governance surrounding CDs with a focus on how these are prescribed and monitored in primary care; it will also highlight significant untoward incidents related to CDs.
Towards more responsible international asset recovery
Authors: Pavlidis George
Published: September 2018

In order to enhance the existing legal framework on asset recovery, the European Union (EU) will have to apply a ‘no safe haven’ policy to the proceeds of corruption and use all appropriate legal tools. We argue that a new EU instrument on asset recovery, modelled after the Swiss Law on Asset Recovery, would be a valuable addition to the EU’s legal arsenal against corruption, in compliance with its commitments under the United Nations Convention against Corruption. Such an EU instrument will deal specifically with the EU’s power to block the assets of foreign politically exposed persons (PEPs) and eventually facilitate restitution of these assets. Following the model of the Swiss law, a reversal of the burden of proof as to the origin of PEPs’ assets could be introduced in the new EU instrument. Judicial review should be wide enough to ensure fairness to the affected PEPs, balancing the new powers of the Council of the EU.
Neurorehabilitation therapy of patients with severe stroke based on functional electrical stimulation commanded by a brain computer interface
Authors: Tabernig Carolina B , Lopez Camila A , Carrere Lucía C , Spaich Erika G , Ballario Carlos H
Published: September 2018

Introduction

Brain computer interface is an emerging technology to treat the sequelae of stroke. The purpose of this study was to explore the motor imagery related desynchronization of sensorimotor rhythms of stroke patients and to assess the efficacy of an upper limb neurorehabilitation therapy based on functional electrical stimulation controlled by a brain computer interface.

Methods

Eight severe chronic stroke patients were recruited. The study consisted of two stages: screening and therapy. During screening, the ability of patients to desynchronize the contralateral oscillatory sensorimotor rhythms by motor imagery of the most affected hand was assessed. In the second stage, a therapeutic intervention was performed. It involved 20 sessions where an electrical stimulator was activated when the patient's cerebral activity related to motor imagery was detected. The upper limb was assessed, before and after the intervention, by the Fugl–Meyer score (primary outcome). Spasticity, motor activity, range of movement and quality of life were also evaluated (secondary outcomes).

Results

Desynchronization was identified in all screened patients. Significant post-treatment improvement ( p < 0.05) was detected in the primary outcome measure and in the majority of secondary outcome scores.

Conclusions

The results suggest that the proposed therapy could be beneficial in the neurorehabilitation of stroke individuals.
Tibetan Buddhism practice of inner fire meditation as recorded in Tangut fragments with Tibetan phonetic glosses
Authors: Chung-pui Tai
Published: September 2018

This paper examines the content of the Tangut text in one of the largest joinable pieces of Tangut fragments with Tibetan phonetic glosses, Fr. 3(8), Fr. 9(14), and Fr. 1(6) from инв. 8363 of the Archives of Orientalists of the Institute of Oriental Manuscript, Russian Academy of Sciences. A detailed sentence-based translation of the Tangut text is provided. The interpretation of these fragments suggests that the Tangut text is an instruction for vase breathing and inner fire meditation, which is also known as “tummo.” This text should relate to the Six Yogas of Nāropa, which was mainly practiced by the Kagyu School of Tibetan Buddhism during the Tangut era. The content of the text should help further study on the identification of the origin of the text, and on the examination of the date of the fragments, which would be critical in the study of the Tibetan phonetic glosses of the Tangut characters.
比较文字学的研究范围、体系及与相关学科的关系
Authors: 邓 章应
Published: September 2018

比较文字学有其特定的研究范围, 只研究跨文字比较中的部分内容, 核心内容是发现两种文字间的相同点、不同点以及联系。一般不考虑所比较的文字是否具有代表性或传播接触关系, 也不注重于寻找文字的普遍规律、类型特征、传播接触关系以及发展层次差异。
Biosimilar and Follow-on Insulin: The Ins, Outs, and Interchangeability
Authors: White John , Goldman Jennifer
Published: September 2018

Objective: To provide an overview of the differences between biosimilars and generics, and to summarize regulatory requirements and outstanding issues related to biosimilar insulins in the United States, including the issue of interchangeability. Data Sources: References were obtained using MEDLINE searches, the bibliographies of articles identified during the searches, review articles, and general Internet searches. Key words included the following: diabetes, insulin, biosimilar, regulatory, follow-on, and interchangeability. Study Selection and Data Extraction: Articles, studies, regulatory documents, and opinion pieces that addressed issues around biosimilar/follow-on insulins and interchangeability of insulins in people with diabetes were selected for inclusion in this narrative review. Data Synthesis: There is understandable interest in the potential for new copies of existing insulins—termed biosimilar insulins or follow-on insulins—to reduce the substantial and growing costs associated with managing the diabetes epidemic and to improve access, as has been achieved with conventional generic drugs. However, biosimilars or follow-on insulins are not generics. There are critical differences between biologic products and conventional chemical drugs, which present specific challenges to manufacturers, regulators, and clinicians. Conclusions: Health care providers and payers need to be aware of the issues surrounding biosimilar and follow-on insulins as they become more widely available in the coming years. In particular, in the face of limited data on comparative safety and efficacy, careful consideration needs to be given when interchanging between originator and biosimilar drugs, when switching patients from one biosimilar drug to the other.
An inhibitor of proteasome β2 sites sensitizes myeloma cells to immunoproteasome inhibitors
Authors: Downey-Kopyscinski Sondra , Daily Ellen W. , Gautier Marc , Bhatt Ananta , Florea Bogdan I. , Mitsiades Constantine S. , Richardson Paul G. , Driessen Christoph , Overkleeft Herman S. , Kisselev Alexei F.
Published: September 2018

Proteasome inhibitors bortezomib, carfilzomib and ixazomib (approved by the US Food and Drug Administration [FDA]) induce remissions in patients with multiple myeloma (MM), but most patients eventually become resistant. MM and other hematologic malignancies express ubiquitous constitutive proteasomes and lymphoid tissue–specific immunoproteasomes; immunoproteasome expression is increased in resistant patients. Immunoproteasomes contain 3 distinct pairs of active sites, β5i, β1i, and β2i, which are different from their constitutive β5c, β1c, and β2c counterparts. Bortezomib and carfilzomib block β5c and β5i sites. We report here that pharmacologically relevant concentrations of β5i-specific inhibitor ONX-0914 show cytotoxicity in MM cell lines similar to that of carfilzomib and bortezomib. In addition, increasing immunoproteasome expression by interferon-γ increases sensitivity to ONX-0914 but not to carfilzomib. LU-102, an inhibitor of β2 sites, dramatically sensitizes MM cell lines and primary cells to ONX-0914. ONX-0914 synergizes with all FDA-approved proteasome inhibitors in MM in vitro and in vivo. Thus, immunoproteasome inhibitors, currently in clinical trials for the treatment of autoimmune diseases, should also be considered for the treatment of MM.