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In order to consider facial expressions of laughter in relation to underlying mental processes, we have been attempting to use remake movies. In this study, we introduced automatic smile-detection software so as to evaluate the strength of laughter objectively. First, the performance of the automatic smile-detection software was examined by a questionnaire-style survey in 10 subjects aged between 19 and 25. Second, from 23 original-remake movie pairs, we extracted 37 facial expressions of laughter for analysis. Measured strengths of facial expressions of laughter of corresponding scenes of original and remade were close to each other except few exceptions. This result suggests that the smile-detection software is reasonably accurate, and facial expressions of laughter at the same underlying context are always similar even though backgrounds of movie production are different.

Recently, proton beam therapy has been recommended in radiation therapy for child-hood cancer. However, facilities for children are limited, and parents who choose this treatment for their children face a variety of challenges. This study reveals mothers’ experiences about the decision to use the aforementioned therapy. A semi-structured interview was conducted with 16 mothers of children who received proton beam therapy in Japan, and a grounded theory approach was adopted. The results revealed that mothers were very worried about late complications concerning their children due to radiation. While the mothers strongly expected proton beam therapy to reduce the risk of late complications, they felt uncertainty and anxiety throughout the entire decision-making process. Despite having to deal with their feelings, they had to transfer to another hospital and prepare support for their children to begin treatment, and this put a lot of strain on them. From decision-making to start of treatment, these emotional fluctuations and the need for psychological support became apparent.

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