Aesthetic Goals Research Articles

The Use of Islamic Legal Discourse in Literature: How Did Premodern Arab Critics Classify and Analyze Legal Intertextuality?

Abstract This essay investigates the use of Islamic legal discourse in literary works and the characteristics that this type of intertextuality develops in premodern Arabic literature. Starting with the theoretical classification of legal intertextuality found in works of rhetoric and literary criticism, I analyze ten poetic examples in order to shed light on how legal intertextuality is used by poets to both develop the argumentation within a text and achieve aesthetic goals. Specifically, I analyze two figures of speech that are used to create this intertextuality: Iqtibās, the definition of which is extended to the quotation of or allusion to legal terms, ideas, concepts, and tenets in literature, and tawriya/tawǧīh 2 , which is used to explain how citing technical legal terms conveys twofold meanings. The result is an investigation that looks at both theory and practice and attempts to reclassify legal intertextuality based on the empirical data found in the sources.

Micro-Coring: A Novel Approach to Perioral Rejuvenation.

A long philtrum and poor perioral skin quality are stigmata of the aging face. Micro-Coring is a novel technology that allows for scarless skin removal. In this study we aimed to determine whether micro-coring can shorten the philtrum and improve perioral skin quality. A retrospective cohort study was performed on patients who underwent facelift with perioral micro-coring and age- and BMI-matched controls who underwent facelift alone. Preoperative and postoperative 3-dimensional facial imaging was performed. Standard perioral distances and percentage of change were calculated. Perioral skin quality was evaluated by blinded raters with the Scientific Assessment Scale of Skin Quality (SASSQ) and Global Aesthetic Improvement Scale (GAIS). Thirteen patients and 13 controls were included, with a mean follow-up of 8.9 months (range 3.0-21.5). Patients had significantly shorter mean philtrum length postoperatively compared to preoperatively, with an average decrease of 6.18% (±2.25%; P < .05). Controls did not experience significant changes in philtrum length (P > .05). There were no significant changes in other perioral measurements. Perioral skin elasticity and wrinkles significantly improved in patients compared to controls and patients had significantly greater GAIS scores (P < .05). Micro-Coring can achieve perioral rejuvenation through measurable shortening of the philtrum and observable improvement in skin quality. Nonsurgical techniques continue to find new ways to achieve aesthetic goals without significant recovery or scarring and offer value to patients and clinicians.

Achieving a Strong and Straight Septal Extension Graft: A Novel Four-step Surgical Approach in Rhinoplasty.

Septal extension grafts allow the precise elongation of the nasal septum to attain facial harmony and optimize aesthetic outcomes. In this context, septal surgery requires meticulous design to address both functional and aesthetic goals. Traditional septoplasty techniques often overlook aesthetic considerations and postoperative nasal structural stability, resulting in unresolved or recurrent deviations, nose tip drooping, and obstruction recurrences. Despite advancements in surgical techniques, achieving simultaneous septal alignment and long-term stability remains a significant challenge. This study introduces a systematic 4-step technique. The procedure encompasses caudal septum liberation, placement of the septum extension cartilage graft, positioning of an ethmoidal bone graft, and redefinition through an intermediate cartilage. A retrospective analysis of outcomes involving 753 patients was conducted with a minimum follow-up of 6 months. During follow-up visits, 1.73% of cases exhibited residual columellar asymmetry, and 0.66% showed tip asymmetries. The infection rate was 0.40%, with no cases of tip drop identified. The overall satisfaction rating on the Rhinoplasty Outcomes Evaluation questionnaire at 12 months postoperative was 9.3. The technique provides a systematic approach to integrate functional and aesthetic objectives, emphasizing septal stability and alignment while concurrently addressing tip projection and stability. The study provides comprehensive insights into the principles, methodology, and advantages of this rhinoplasty technique. The outcomes underscore the efficacy of the technique, presenting a reliable and long-term stable solution.

Long-term photogrammetric outcomes of midface advancement in Apert syndrome: are we nearing normal?

The aesthetic goals of midface surgery in Apert syndrome are to correct the multi-planar midface deficiency and normalize facial ratios. This study characterizes the long-term photogrammetric outcomes of midface advancement in Apert syndrome. Patients with Apert syndrome who underwent midface distraction from 2000 to 2023 were retrospectively reviewed. Soft tissue measurements were applied to preoperative (T0), short-term postoperative (T1), and long-term postoperative (T2) photographs. Long-term changes were compared between subcranial and transcranial procedures, segmental and non-segmental osteotomies, and individual techniques. Frontal facial dimensions at time T2 were compared to age- and sex-matched normal controls from the NIMH-ChEFS face database. Twenty patients had postoperative follow-up of T1 = 0.6 ± 0.4 and T2 = 4.7 ± 1.1years and were compared to 40 normal controls. From time T0 to T2, middle facial third height increased (26.1 ± 3.0% to 27.8 ± 2.6%, p = 0.026), canthal tilt improved (- 7.6° ± 3.7° to - 3.9° ± 4.4°, p < 0.001), and facial convexity increased (182.9° ± 6.2° to 167.9° ± 8.6°, p < 0.001). From time T1 to T2, facial convexity flattened (159.4° ± 10.1° to 167.9° ± 8.6°, p < 0.001). Compared to controls, patients at time T2 had shorter middle facial third height (27.8 ± 2.6% vs. 32.0 ± 1.9%, p < 0.001) and reverse canthal tilt (- 3.9° ± 4.4° vs. 5.4° ± 2.6°, p < 0.001). A tailored treatment approach to the Apert midface yields varying degrees of resolution of central midfacial shortening, canthal tilt, and facial concavity at 5years postoperatively. A slight reduction in facial convexity over time, likely reflecting pseudorelapse in the setting of sagittal overcorrection, should be anticipated. Greater utilization of segmental osteotomies may bring facial third ratios and canthal tilt closer to normal morphometric values.

The Emerging Role of Three-dimensional Technologies in Orthoplastic Surgery.

Three-dimensional (3D) planning and manufacturing technologies have become integral to head and neck reconstruction following tumor resection. These technologies facilitate the prototyping of patient-specific solutions in both digital and physical form. Three-dimensional tumor models and cutting guides help conceptualize and verify the surgical approach, as well as serve as a blueprint for reconstruction. Computer-aided renderings have been shown to add precision to bony contouring to achieve functional and aesthetic goals following tumor resection, such as in mastication, oral competence, speech, and symmetric facial aesthetics. Three-dimensional technologies have also been introduced in orthopedic oncology, making limb-salvage surgery the mainstay of treatment in cases where amputation was historically required. The advent of customized 3D cutting guides and plates allows surgeons to spare surrounding healthy tissue, markedly enhancing postoperative quality of life and significantly reducing associated morbidities. Borrowing from these applications of 3D planning and modeling, our institution has recently implemented these technologies for the reconstructive planning of soft tissue defects following sarcoma resection. Here we present a series of cases that demonstrate the workflow and clinical outcomes associated with the utilization of 3D planning techniques in orthoplastic surgery.

A Novel Hybrid Injectable for Soft-tissue Augmentation: Analysis of Data and Practical Experience

Background: HA/CaHa (HArmonyCa, Allergan Aesthetics, an AbbVie Company) is a hybrid injectable filler developed for aesthetic purposes that contains calcium hydroxyapatite microspheres suspended in a hyaluronic acid gel. This review describes preclinical and clinical data, recommendations for use based on the primary author’s clinical experience, and case studies that illustrate implementation of product use recommendations and patient outcomes. Methods: Preclinical data on the lift capacity and tissue integration of the HA/CaHa hybrid injectable and clinical data on its safety, efficacy, and real-world use were extracted from poster presentations, published literature, manufacturer instructions for use, and proprietary data files. Case studies were presented based on clinical experience. Results: The HA component of HA/CaHa provides an immediate and noticeable filling and lifting effect, whereas CaHa microspheres result in neocollagenesis. In preclinical studies, HA/CaHa demonstrated higher lift capacity (P &lt; 0.05) and faster tissue integration than a CaHa filler and led to collagen I gene and protein expression. Clinical studies showed clinical safety and effectiveness with high patient satisfaction. The most common adverse event was injection-site response. Clinician recommendations for achieving desired aesthetic results while minimizing or preventing adverse events are reviewed, including patient selection and assessment, treatment approaches based on face shape, injection technique, and postprocedure care. Conclusion: The novel hybrid injectable consisting of HA with incorporated CaHa microspheres in a single marketed product may help achieve aesthetic goals by immediately restoring volume and potentially improving skin architecture and soft-tissue quality over time.

SmartGD: A GAN-Based Graph Drawing Framework for Diverse Aesthetic Goals.

While a multitude of studies have been conducted on graph drawing, many existing methods only focus on optimizing a single aesthetic aspect of graph layouts, which can lead to sub-optimal results. There are a few existing methods that have attempted to develop a flexible solution for optimizing different aesthetic aspects measured by different aesthetic criteria. Furthermore, thanks to the significant advance in deep learning techniques, several deep learning-based layout methods were proposed recently. These methods have demonstrated the advantages of deep learning approaches for graph drawing. However, none of these existing methods can be directly applied to optimizing non-differentiable criteria without special accommodation. In this work, we propose a novel Generative Adversarial Network (GAN) based deep learning framework for graph drawing, called SmartGD, which can optimize different quantitative aesthetic goals, regardless of their differentiability. To demonstrate the effectiveness and efficiency of SmartGD, we conducted experiments on minimizing stress, minimizing edge crossing, maximizing crossing angle, maximizing shape-based metrics, and a combination of multiple aesthetics. Compared with several popular graph drawing algorithms, the experimental results show that SmartGD achieves good performance both quantitatively and qualitatively.

Cross-linked Sodium Hyaluronate Gel with PLLA-b-PEG Microsphere for Facial Contouring in Chinese: A Retrospective Study.

In Asia, the demand for cosmetic facial treatments has surged due to technological advancements, increased social acceptability, and affordability. Poly-L-lactic acid (PLLA) fillers, known for their biocompatibility and biodegradability, have emerged as a popular choice for facial contouring, yet studies specifically addressing their use in Asian populations are scarce. This retrospective study examined 30 Chinese patients who underwent facial contouring with PLLA fillers, focusing on product composition, injection techniques, and safety measures. A comprehensive clinical evaluation was performed, including the Global Aesthetic Improvement Scale (GAIS) and Global Impression of Change Scale (GICS) for effectiveness and patient satisfaction, respectively. No significant difference in GAIS scores was observed between injectors and blinded evaluators over a 12-month period, indicating consistent effectiveness. Patient satisfaction remained high, with GICS scores reflecting positive outcomes. The safety profile was favorable, with no serious adverse events reported. The study highlighted the importance of anatomical knowledge to avoid complications, particularly in areas prone to blindness. PLLA fillers offer a safe, effective option for facial contour correction in the Asian population, achieving high patient satisfaction and maintaining results over time. The study underscores the need for tailored approaches in cosmetic procedures for Asians, considering their unique facial structures and aesthetic goals. Further research with larger, multicenter cohorts is recommended to validate these findings and explore long-term effects. This journal requires that authors assign a level of evidence to each article. For a full description of these Evidence-Based Medicine ratings, please refer to the Table of Contents or the online Instructions to Authors www.springer.com/00266 .

Spatial Audio and Parameter Mapping Experiments for the Auditory Display of Coral Bleaching Data

In this article, data relating to Hawaii’s 2019 coral bleaching are auditorily displayed using parameter mapping sonification and ambisonics. Although primarily an explorative endeavor, this undertaking is conceptually rooted in ecological sound art and neutrally positioned on an established Cartesian framework known as Aesthetic Perspective Space. Through iterative design, different versions are implemented using sound surrogates of coral reefs’ natural soundscapes derived from either (a) real undersea recordings of reef environments or (b) modeling via means of sound synthesis. These audio surrogates correspond to data clusters aggregated by geographical location and, after being represented as sound sources on an ambisonic sphere, all contribute to a final sonic environment in which each cluster is progressively altered as the corresponding coral location undergoes bleaching. To assess both the perceived aesthetic placement of these experiments and their potential for public engagement in the discourse around climate change, evaluation studies are carried out. Results align with the aesthetic goals of the author, while consecutive versions manage to improve on critical fronts relating to climate awareness, providing further motivation toward more immersive implementations in future editions to come.

National trends in revision procedures in post-mastectomy breast reconstruction: Autologous vs implant-based approaches

BackgroundBreast reconstruction involves collaborative decision-making between patients and surgeons, but the need for multiple revisions after the initial reconstructive surgery process can burden patients and the healthcare system. This study explored how the type of breast reconstruction (autologous [ABR], immediate implant-based reconstruction [IBR], or two-stage IBR) impacts postreconstruction revision rates. MethodUsing MarketScan Databases, a retrospective database study (2007–2021) was conducted, identifying revision procedures through Current Procedural Terminology codes. Statistical analysis with linear models, adjusted for patient characteristics and surgical factors, used a significance threshold of p < 0.05. ResultsAmong 58,264 patients, 6.2% of ABR patients, 3.8% of immediate IBR patients, and 3.6% of two-stage IBR patients underwent future revisions. IBR had a 51% lower incidence rate of revision operations than ABR (incidence rate ratio = 0.49, p < 0.001). Within IBR, there was no significant difference in the number of operations between immediate IBR (0.06 ± 0.32) and two-stage IBR (0.05 ± 0.32, p = 0.95). Immediate IBR demonstrated 12% (OR = 0.88, p = 0.0022) and 70% (OR = 0.30, p < 0.001) lower odds of requiring breast revision and fat grafting compared to ABR, respectively. Two-stage reconstruction had 66 % lower odds of requiring only fat grafting than ABR (OR = 0.34, p < 0.001). ConclusionABR necessitated a higher number of total revision procedures after completion of the initial reconstruction. These findings will better equip providers and patients to counsel patients in understanding their reconstructive journey, planning their reconstructions and timing, and provide more accurate estimates of the number of procedures that will be required to reach their aesthetic goals and final outcome.

Neck Aging and Rejuvenation: A Balanced Approach to Assessment and Treatment

ABSTRACTIntroductionThe neck is typically the earliest and most visible site of aging‐related esthetic changes; it is an area about which patients frequently express esthetic concerns and seek approaches to rejuvenation. This narrative review examines the current understanding of age‐related structural and cellular changes in the neck and skin, treatment approaches to neck rejuvenation, specifically noninvasive and minimally invasive approaches including skincare, and key patient factors to consider.MethodsA literature search of relevant publications was performed. Experience‐based recommendations for clinical assessment and treatment approach are provided to complement the current literature.ResultsNeck aging results from a combination of intrinsic factors, such as genetic background, and extrinsic factors, primarily ultraviolet light exposure. Positive treatment outcomes begin with thorough patient assessment, including neck aging status, patient‐specific intrinsic and extrinsic factors, and evaluation of skin type, which may help predict positive (e.g., skin tightening) and negative (e.g., dyspigmentation) dermal responses to specific procedures. In addition to skincare, a range of noninvasive, directed‐energy techniques (e.g., chromophore‐based lasers, ablative lasers, intense pulsed light, microfocused ultrasound, cryolipolysis, laser‐assisted lipolysis, and radiofrequency irradiation) and minimally invasive techniques (e.g., neurotoxins, microneedling, and fillers) are currently used for neck rejuvenation. A comprehensive approach to assessment and treatment contributes toward improved patient outcomes.ConclusionsThe neck aging process develops over time, and a prejuvenation strategy, including effective skincare, should be considered. The development of comprehensive noninvasive and minimally invasive techniques geared toward the neck and face as a single entity should provide better outcomes and fulfillment of patient esthetic goals for this critical area.

Reconstruction of a Large Composite Hemicraniofacial Defect with Bipedicled DIEP/TRAM Flaps

Summary: Head and neck reconstructions are often challenging due to the mix of functional and aesthetic goals. It can be tricky when different tissue types are required to reconstruct each subunit. Craniofacial reconstructions require a large volume of tissue to cover defects that span across a large convex area. The latissimus dorsi muscle flap is a workhorse free flap used frequently by surgeons due to its ability to cover over a large surface area. However, there are unique situations when even the latissimus dorsi muscle is not enough to provide the bulk cover for the craniofacial defect. We present a complex case of a hemicraniofacial reconstruction after a hemifacial orbital exenteration and cranial resection of a large neglected basal cell carcinoma.

Achieving Bratz Doll Look with Lip Fillers: A Prospective Observational Study on Blunt Cannula Techniques.

This study aims to evaluate the efficacy and safety of a blunt cannula technique using hyaluronic acid fillers for achieving the Bratz doll lip aesthetic, characterized by enhanced volume and sharp definition. Thirty volunteers, 22-40 years of age, were selected based on specific inclusion criteria at Albany Cosmetic and Laser Center for 6 months. The technique involved precise filler injections using a Steriglide blunt cannula. Pre- and postprocedure measurements of lip dimensions and angular changes were meticulously documented and analyzed using IBM SPSS Statistics software. The procedure significantly increased the average height of both the upper and lower vermilion zones, with notable changes in angular measurements and the distance between the midline and oral commissure, aligning with the Bratz doll aesthetic. Importantly, none of the participants experienced bruising, a common side effect in traditional needle-based methods. The overall satisfaction rate was high, with an average score of 8.5 out of 10, reflecting the procedure's success in meeting aesthetic goals and ensuring participant comfort. The blunt cannula technique for lip augmentation presents a safe and effective alternative to traditional needle-based methods. The absence of bruising and high satisfaction rates underscore the technique's precision and alignment with patient safety and comfort. This study contributes to the field of cosmetic lip enhancement, offering a novel approach that balances aesthetic aspirations with health considerations, potentially influencing future practices in cosmetic procedures.

Achieving Harmonious Feminine Proportions: A Comprehensive Study on Breast Harmonization with Nanotextured Implants.

The prevalence of breast augmentation as a strategy for achieving idealized feminine proportions, consistent with contemporary beauty standards, has increased notably. This study focuses on the use of nanotextured implants, examining their efficacy in enhancing body symmetry and conforming to current aesthetic ideals. Conducted as a prospective cohort study, this research included women who underwent breast augmentation using nanotextured ergonomic implants from 2017 to 2023. A personalized methodology was applied, incorporating an array of anthropometric measurements and individual motivations to inform the selection of implants. The techniques used aimed at fostering a natural aesthetic, coupled with an extensive postoperative follow-up to evaluate outcomes and identify any complications. The study involved 1000 participants, with findings indicating a marked improvement in breast and overall body proportions, in line with targeted aesthetic principles. High levels of patient satisfaction were observed, with more than 90% reporting favorable aesthetic results and a low incidence of complications. These findings emphasize the effectiveness and safety of nanotextured implants in achieving the desired aesthetic goals. The study underscores the efficacy of nanotextured implants in attaining balanced feminine proportions, aligning surgical results with modern beauty ideals and enhancing personal well-being. It highlights the significance of a tailored approach in breast augmentation, which encompasses not only the physical aspects of aesthetic enhancement but also the psychological and social facets of patient contentment.

Theoretical Foundations of Designing for Darkness

This paper sketches the theoretical foundations of designing for darkness. Drawing from (lighting) design theory, philosophy of technology, and environmental ethics, it argues that we have an opportunity to re-examine the meaning and experiences of darkness, exploring why and how we should protect or re-introduce darkness into urban nightscapes – not as a constraint, but a constructive goal for urban lighting. It is further positioned as a formative, not prescriptive, framework: bounding and guiding a flexible design process, and able to inform different strategies and approaches. Framed in this way, three core principles are outlined that serve as moral and aesthetic goals for urban lighting. The first is aspirational, situating ‘darkening cities’ as a type of urban (ecological) restoration akin to greening cities. This requires seeing urban darkness as a critical natural infrastructure that can bring both material and social benefits. The second is evaluative, specifying the value-level design requirements to be fostered in urban nightscapes. Lighting strategies should, as a prima facie obligation, promote and preserve the values of darkness. The third principle is experiential, exploring how strategies can create the conditions for positive experiences of – and engagement with – urban darkness. In combination, they offer a means to specify darkness as a design requirement, as well as a reflexive tool to assess and refine the overarching theory of designing for darkness.

Forced Esthetic Position: A Diagnostic Strategy for Anteroposterior Repositioning in Orthognathic Surgeries.

Considering the esthetic goals involved in orthognathic surgeries, one of the challenges is to define the horizontal projection of the jaws. Most of the cephalometric analyses are focused on the position of the upper incisor and upper lip. Planning the correction of a mandibular retrognathism can be simplified by clinical simulation asking the patient to project their mandible. A forced esthetic position protocol is presented as a starting point for the planning in orthognathic cases.

Yu Opera Artistic Instruction Components Are Mined and Taught Throughout Elementary Classrooms in The Luoyang Area of Henan Province, China, as an Example

Background: Henan Yu Opera is a form of artistic expression and cultural exchange that falls under the broader category of traditional Chinese art. In the context of school education, the aim of incorporating Yu opera is to introduce this cultural heritage to students, propagate the richness of traditional Chinese culture, and instill an appreciation for the splendor of Yu opera. The intent is to nurture a sense of beauty, both in terms of emotional appeal and physical expression. Objective: The goal is to popularize Yu opera among students, cultivating an understanding of its cultural significance. However, the current focus on skill development overshadows the broader impact of Yu opera on Chinese culture. Method: The study investigates the core curriculum for Yu opera beauty education in primary schools in Luoyang, Henan Province, employing an analysis of instructional frameworks and their alignment with cultural and aesthetic goals. Results &amp; Conclusions: The study on Yu opera education in primary schools reveals a disproportionate emphasis on performance skills over the broader cultural impact of the art form. Bridging this gap is crucial for fostering a more comprehensive and meaningful appreciation for the beauty and cultural significance of Henan Yu Opera among students.

Analysis of Sexual Dimorphic Features of the Jawline and Chin in White Celebrity Faces.

The jawline greatly influences facial shape and contributes to facial dimorphism. Analysis of lower facial shape and sexual dimorphic differences in contemporary attractive white faces can advance the goals of lower facial aesthetics and facial gender-affirming surgery (FGAS). Full-face, front-view photos of 47 white female and 21 white male celebrities were included from a list generated using GQ magazine's Highest Paid Models issue, People Magazine's Beautiful issue (1991-2022), and celebrities featured on lifestyle websites. Facial landmarks were detected through a facial analysis program using Vision framework and MATLAB. After converting pixel distances to absolute distances, lower face measurements were compared between males and females. The mean lower facial height was 6.08cm in females and 7.00cm in males (P value<0.001). The mean bigonial width was 11.21cm in females and 12.30cm in males (P value<0.001). The ratio of facial height to lower facial height was 2.98 in females and 2.76 in males (P value<0.001), signifying that symmetry in facial thirds is more prevalent in attractive female faces, while a longer lower face is more common in attractive male faces. The greatest differences in female and male facial contours were at gonial angles and chin. Analysis of contemporary white celebrity faces demonstrated significantly wider and longer lower facial measurements in males. The overall contour of the female lower face was more tapered at the gonial angles and chin compared to males. These results are important when planning lower facial rejuvenation or FGAS, as lower face size and proportions influence perceived gender and attractiveness.

Grigor Khanjyan’s Triptych as a Visualization of the Commemoration in the Context of the Armenian Ethnogenetic Myth

The article is devoted to the visualization of three key events in the history of Armenia in the work of the artist Grigor Khanjyan: the invention of the Armenian alphabet by Mesrop Mashtots, the Vardanid War for independence. To achieve ideological and aesthetic goals, the artist turned to the monumental genre. The final result was a triptych, now stored in the heart of Yerevan, in the architectural and monumental Cascade complex, in the Gerard Gafeschyan Art Center, in the hall named after the artist. The frescoes are united by cumulation and intentional atemporality of the characters. Another characteristic feature of the triptych is that Khanjyan turned to academic classicism to implement the idea. As an artistic technique, the master uses achrony, shifting the time frame for different characters, but at the same time, remaining faithful to the plot and the entourage of the depicted events. The central part of the triptych resembles a temporary dromos, separating and simultaneously connecting the first and third khorans, epochal events that changed the paradigm of the Armenian nation’s existence. Through the time portal, the Armenian ethnic group flows from the early Middle Ages to our days. A cross-cutting idea is the ideal of the social structure of the Armenian nation, which has gained sovereignty, sought by Khanjyan. The artist models the Golden Age according to the type of social structure of the early Middle Ages, extrapolating the medieval paradigm to the present and tomorrow. The ukhronia of the Reborn Armenia created by the artist is a projection of early medieval Armenia. Among the researchers who conducted an art criticism analysis of this work of Khanjyan, it is perhaps worth highlighting the names of such researchers as N. Stepanyan, N. Eyramjians, V. Gamagelyan, etc., whose works we refer to in our study. This article is intended to partially fill this obvious gap. The scientific novelty of the study lies in its interdisciplinary approach, due to the fact that one of the co–authors is a historian and the other is an art critic. This allowed the authors to conduct a diverse analysis using historical, cultural, semiotic, anthropological, ethnographic and, of course, art criticism approaches.

Graph Exploration With Embedding-Guided Layouts.

Node-link diagrams are widely used to visualize graphs. Most graph layout algorithms only use graph topology for aesthetic goals (e.g., minimize node occlusions and edge crossings) or use node attributes for exploration goals (e.g., preserve visible communities). Existing hybrid methods that bind the two perspectives still suffer from various generation restrictions (e.g., limited input types and required manual adjustments and prior knowledge of graphs) and the imbalance between aesthetic and exploration goals. In this article, we propose a flexible embedding-based graph exploration pipeline to enjoy the best of both graph topology and node attributes. First, we leverage embedding algorithms for attributed graphs to encode the two perspectives into latent space. Then, we present an embedding-driven graph layout algorithm, GEGraph, which can achieve aesthetic layouts with better community preservation to support an easy interpretation of the graph structure. Next, graph explorations are extended based on the generated graph layout and insights extracted from the embedding vectors. Illustrated with examples, we build a layout-preserving aggregation method with Focus+Context interaction and a related nodes searching approach with multiple proximity strategies. Finally, we conduct quantitative and qualitative evaluations, a user study, and two case studies to validate our approach.