bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
First Course in Human Factors Engineering: What Should be Taught
Authors: Goldberg Joseph H. , Champney Paul C. , Karn Keith S. , Riley Michael W. , Peacock Brian
Published: July 2017

Industry and academia often have differing desires in the introductory Human Factors education of engineering students. Industry seeks solutions to current problems, whereas academia can communicate state-of-the-art concepts without immediate application. This panel session united members of academia and industry for discussion of what topics and structure should underlie a one-semester, introductory, survey course in Human Factors Engineering. Each panel member expressed his opinion of what should be in such a course, followed by discussion aimed at achieving consensus of opinions.
In the Era of Ada Do we Really Have Accessible Bathrooms: A Survey
Authors: Malassigné Pascal , Zablocki C. J. , Amerson Thomas L.
Published: July 2017

A postal opinion survey examined several issues related to use of home modifications, bathrooms and bathroom fixtures by 783 adults with disabilities. Key research issues included the following questions:

1. What are the types of approaches and transfers to bathtubs and toilets made by non-ambulatory people, and how do they differ from the approaches and transfers of those who are semi-ambulatory? 2. How effective are grab-bars in transferring to and from the bathtub or the toilet? 3. What are the design features of the lavatory which are liked or disliked by semi and non-ambulatory users?

Of those responding to the questionnaire, 60% were older than 50 years of age; so the opinions or experiences expressed may be more reflective of an older population. Of the non-ambulatory respondents, 83% used a manual chair and 17% used an electric wheelchair. Among semi-ambulatory respondents, 28% used a cane or crutches for assistance. Most respondents lived with family, and modifications were made in 69% of these homes to enhance independence in daily activities. Nearly half of the respondents were unsatisfied with their bathroom fixtures. Although there was a relatively wide range of responses depending upon the type of disability impairment of respondents, strong preferences (or dislikes) were noted for fixture designs.
What Does Human Factors Research Have to do with Environmental Management?
Authors: Nickerson Raymond S.
Published: July 2017

Human factors research has not focused much on the problem of environmental change and its management. The problem has many aspects that interrelate in complex ways. Its roots are in human behavior, so if approaches toward solutions are to be effective, they must involve modifying that behavior or mitigating its detrimental effects. A few suggestions of directions that human-factors efforts aimed at helping manage environmental change might take are made, but the main point of the paper is a plea for more discussion of the topic among human-factors researchers. Such discussion would result, it is assumed, in the identification of specific ways in which the field could contribute significantly to the development of solutions to the problem.
Effect of Product Structure on Manual Assembly Performance
Authors: Prabhu Girish V. , Helander Martin G. , Shalin Valerie L.
Published: July 2017

Using Maynard's description, an assembly task may be divided into various task elements like reach, select, grasp, move, position, and assemble (Ghosh and Helander, 1985). Activities such as “reach” and “move” are governed by biomechanics of body motions including human factors principles such as Fitt's law. This research investigated the effect of the structure of the assembly and the type of assembly instructions on performance. Two different product structures were used — a vertical assembly, built bottom-up, and a hierarchical assembly, consisting of several subassemblies. Two different instruction strategies were used: 1. top-down sequential instructions 2. No Instructions. The research showed that vertical products were easier for manual assembly, when provided with instructions. For all three dependant measures, there was no interaction effect between the two factors, namely product structure and instructions. Average time for completion was significant for both factors i.e. product structures ( F(1, 20) = 4.417, p < 0.0485) and instructions ( F(1, 20) = 5.886, p < 0.0248). However, time for learning was significant only for product structure factor ( F(1, 20) = 5.239, p < 0.033). Also, trials to learn was significant only for product structure factor ( F(1, 20) = 4.449, p < 0.047).
Heat Stress Associated with the Use of Tyvek® Coveralls in Asbestos Removal Inspection
Authors: Griffith Debra A. , Reddan William , Schmitz William
Published: July 2017

This two-part study was undertaken to determine if increased heat stress was associated with the use of Tyvek® suits at a given temperature and workload, and the effect of ambient temperature on the level of heat stress experienced within the suit.

In the first part of the study the independent variables were: ambient condition (22.2° C and 50% rh vs. 32.2° C and 60% rh) and workload (20% vs. 40% of maximum Vo2). The eight subjects ranged in age from 27 to 63, with equal numbers of men and women. Treadmill walking was used to simulate workload. Each experimental run lasted 45 minutes. In the second part, workload was fixed at 40% of maximum Vo2 and the suits were not worn. All other conditions were the same. Subjects (female, age 32; male, age 32; male, age 63) were chosen from the original eight. Results for the two parts were compared.

Wearing the suit increased the heat stress upon an individual. Rectal temperature increased by an average of .17° C, heart rate by 16 bpm, average heat stored by 54 kcals, and average sweat loss by .73 liters/m2. Ambient temperature appeared to have a positive effect on the level of heat stress experienced within the suit. There were confounds, indicating a need for further study.

It is recommended that ACGIH guidelines for work-rest ratio determination be followed, providing one adds 6°–11° C to the calculated ambient WBGT before entering the chart. These findings agree with the TLV WBGT Correction factors for clothing provided in the 1991 ACGIH guidelines on heat stress and the findings of Paull and Rosenthal (1987).
Slip Distance as an Objective Criterion to Determine the Dominant Parameter between Static and Dynamic Cofs
Authors: Myung Rohae , Smith James L. , Leamon Tom B.
Published: July 2017

Dynamic friction seems to be more appropriate as a measure of floor slipperiness. However, static friction has been more commonly used and has been a good measure for non-slippery conditions. Therefore, an experiment was conducted to find the dominant COF (static or dynamic) in non-slippery floors and correlating slip distance with each COF. As a result, slip distance was found to be a good measure to represent floor slipperiness because it was exponentially related with static and dynamic COFs. In conclusion, static COF can be a good parameter in non-slippery conditions for prevention of slips and falls.
Development of a New Automated Tactility Test for Assessing Hand Sensory Function
Authors: Radwin Robert G. , Jeng One-Jang , Gisske Edward T. , Park Young-Lae
Published: July 2017

Design and test results of an automated aesthesiometer for measuring gap detection threshold in a tactile inspection task are presented. What distinguishes this test from conventional tactility tests, such as two-point discrimination or monofilaments, is that it measures performance in a functional tactility task resembling those performed during manual work activities. Although test conditions are highly controlled, this test still permits natural finger probing activity while sensing surface feature defects like scratches, rather than sensing static unnatural sensory stimuli such as distinguishing two points, or detecting a point-pressure stimulus. The size of a precision scratch, or gap, introduced in an otherwise smooth surface is controlled using a micropositioner capable of producing a gap as small as 0.1 μm. Finger contact force is also carefully controlled within 100 mg accuracy for loads between 25 g and 75 g using a precision balance beam system. This instrument is entirely under microcomputer control and can be administered on a table-top in the field. In this study, normative performance is compared between static and dynamic sensory function rapid method of limits threshold detection paradigm. Probability of detecting randomly presented stimuli was also studied.
Ergonomics Research Efforts in the Supermarket Industry
Authors: Sluchak Thomas J. , Hoffman Mark S. , Marras William S. , Cochran David J. , Grant Katharyn , Habes Daniel
Published: July 2017

This panel is composed of researchers from private industry, academia and NIOSH, who are currently involved with ergonomics research in the supermarket industry. Presenters summarize their research efforts and discuss key ergonomics challenges present in the supermarket industry today.
Application of Survival Analysis to CTD Risk Assessment
Authors: Park Donghyun
Published: July 2017

This paper demonstrates the application of survival models to CTD (Cumulative Trauma Disorder) studies. Survival analysis techniques are usually applied to the analysis of prospective epidemiological studies examining related risk factors. However, survival models have never been used in CTD etiology, perhaps due to mathematical complexities imposed on survival analysis techniques and its interpretation. The other reason might be the fact that it has not been considered as serious as other diseases usually studied in epidemiology. However, the conditions and assumptions of survival models fit completely into CTD studies (the existence of concomitant variables, a heterogeneous study population, censored observations etc.). Thus it is inappropriate to analyze CTD problems (specifically etiology and prevention) using typical statistical technique (ANOVA or ordinary regression).

In this study, 143 subjects participated from an automobile carpet manufacturing plant which was experiencing a high number of CTD cases (107 cases, 1988–1989) and two groups of potential risk factors were examined. They were mainly categorized into personal and job-related information. This information was collected through survey questionnaires and video-taping. As the first step of analysis, survival, hazard and probability density functions were estimated. The estimated survival function shows that CTD incidence rate remained relatively constant, fluctuating 5–15%, through the first 12 years. Also, univariate associations between survival time and individual risk factors were tested using log rank and Wilcoxen rank test. Finally, the CTD data was fitted to ‘Proportional Hazard Model' (the most generalized survival model with distribution-free baseline hazard function). This model explains 75% (R2=0.75) of CTD data with the following covariates; cycle time per part, number of meals a day, dominant hand, general attitude, hand posture, degree of physical fitness, hobby and job title. The feasibility of the Proportional Hazard Modeling was investigated by test and plot. The test was conducted under the global null hypothesis about the significance of the overall model and t vs. log(-log(S(t))) was plotted to check with the assumption of proportionality. Both results ascertain the feasibility of Proportional Hazard Modeling for CTD studies.
Carpal Tunnel Syndrome Prevalence in a Heavy Railroad Maintenance and Repair Facility
Authors: Stentz T. L. , Riley M. W. , Glismann C. L. , Ballard J. L. , Sposato R. C.
Published: July 2017

Carpal tunnel syndrome (CTS) is clinically evaluated with the aid of nerve conduction testing. CTS diagnosis is typically confirmed by the presence of higher than normal median nerve distal latencies accompanied by lower than normal conduction velocities depending on the degree of neuropathy. The main objective of this research was to estimate the prevalence of CTS in a population of 800 railroad maintenance workers. A non-random sample of 322 volunteer workers participated in the study. Demographic and anthropometric data was collected. Median nerve distal latencies and conduction velocities were measured on both hands. Based on the test results, subjects were separated into 6 classes of CTS severity from “normal” to “severe”. Data analysis revealed some CTS was present. Analysis of wrist geometry did not confirm wrist squareness as a predictor of CTS.
Using Force Sensitive Resistors to Evaluate Hand Tool Grip Design
Authors: Yun Myung Hwan , Kotani Kentaro , Ellis Darin
Published: July 2017

The pressure distribution of the hand is an important element in evaluating hand tool grip. For measuring the pressure distributions of the hand, a portable sensor glove was developed using force sensitive resistors of the conductive polymer type. Pressure distributions of three hand tools for three male subjects were measured. The pressure distribution pattern varied significantly between type of grip, location, and subjective exertion level. Factor analysis was used to identify the relative importance of each area of the hand during grip action. The results showed that there is an ‘active' area involved in gripping the hand tool and a ‘control’ area which supports the hand motion for the given task. Studies about hand tool pressure distributions will provide an important guideline in designing a new tool or improving an existing one. A microcomputer based system is being developed that records data on grip pressure distribution throughout a tool grip task. The digitized data then will be analyzed both graphically and statistically and will be used to evaluate various hand tools for industrial settings.
Force Distribution at Hand/Handle Coupling: The Effect of Handle Type
Authors: Bishu R. R. , Wang Wei , Hallbeck M. S. , Cochran D. J.
Published: July 2017

Handle location and geometry play an important role in container design and effectiveness. An ideal handle position and angle should minimize stress at L5/S1 and minimize average grip pressure on the two hands with force distributed evenly on both hands. Handles in such a position will be most comfortable for performing a MMH task and reduce the likelihood of compressive injuries on the lumbar spine. Most of the published research on container handles have used the psychophysical, biomechanical, and/or physiological methods to determine handle effectiveness. The force distribution at the exact point of energy transfer, namely the hand/handle interface has rarely been addressed by the scientific community. The intent of this study was to determine the force distribution at the hand/handle interface and use the same to compare the effectiveness of various handle types, positions, and angles. Six factors were tested in this experiment using a fractional factorial design. The pressure at the interface was measured using a number of force sensing resistors (FSRs) in each hand. The results indicate handle positions 2/2, 8/8, and 3/7 to be far superior to position 6/8. The average pressure at the FSR sites appear to be the least at handle angles of 0 degree. Further, the force distribution for the cut-out handle appears to be more uniform than that for the cylindrical handle (circular cross-section). Based on these findings recommendations are made for container designer.
Human Factors Support of Nasa's Safety Directorate on the Space Station Processing Facility (SSPF) Kennedy Space Center, FL
Authors: Lindner H. Greig
Published: July 2017

A Human Factors Engineering (HFE) pilot project was undertaken by the National Aeronautics and Space Administration (NASA) on the Space Station Processing Facility (SSPF) at the Kennedy Space Center, Florida in 1991. It is to demonstrate the use of Human Factors in supporting the role of NASA Safety in achieving their objective of reducing the causes of accidents by helping to eliminate error producing situations. The initial phase of this endeavor consisted of a review of the design drawings for the SSPF, identifying all human factors concerns with special emphases on those which affected personnel safety, operational efficiency and hazards which might produce damage to expensive payloads. Where drawings did not completely disclose the characteristics of the intended operations, other facilities at the Kennedy Space Center were visited to obtain “Lessons Learned” insights that could be applied to the drawing critique. As Human Factors concerns and/or Safety issues were identified, they were discussed with the appropriate engineering personnel to effect a workable solution. During the lecture presentation, examples of identified HF & Safety deficiencies will be presented by the use of drawings, photographs in viewgraph form and a video of an accident to the Magellan Spacecraft. Discussion of the findings of the Magellan Spacecraft Mishap Review Board will elaborate on their conclusion that the lack of Human Factors Engineering was a major Contributor to this incident. A video segment showing an advanced and innovative Human Factors (HF) modeling technique will graphically demonstrate the potential application of conducting Human Engineering (HE) evaluations in conjunction with Engineering Prototyping in a Computer Aided Design (CAD) environment.
Estimating the Height of a Suspended Wire
Authors: Brackett R. Quinn , Pezoldt V. J. , Roush Laura
Published: July 2017

Estimating the height of a wire above the ground is a task that may be required to avoid contacting electrical distribution lines with ladders, antennae, long poles, or other reach extending devices. It has been suggested that this task is difficult because wire is often presented against the homogeneous field of the sky. The accuracy of estimations under this condition may be poor when made on an absolute basis, that is using an internal frame of reference. However, accuracy should improve when the estimation is made on a relative basis, using some external frame of reference. In order to assess the accuracy of such estimations, forty subjects were each asked to give a verbal estimate of the height of a suspended wire, as well as to match the wire height using a horizontal reference pole and a vertical reference pole. As expected, the verbal, or absolute, estimates had a higher average percent error (17.1%) than the relative horizontal estimates (7.7%). Relative vertical estimates produced the most accurate values, within about 2.0% of the actual wire height. The degree of accuracy observed in subjects using external references suggests that the ability to avoid contact with overhead electrical distribution lines may be high, given appropriate knowledge, attention, and motivation.
Estimation of Safe Distance from the Robot Arm as a Guide for Limiting Slow Speed of Robot Motions
Authors: Karwowski W. , Parsaei H. , Soundararajan A. , Pongpatanasuegsa N.
Published: July 2017

The main objective of this laboratory study was to determine the minimum distance from the robot considered as safe for monitoring purposes, and the corresponding perception of danger for close interaction in robot teaching tasks. Five speed levels of robot motions, i.e.: 10, 20, 30, 40 and 50 cm/sec, were used. The three motion types of the robot arm were forward, swing (from right) and swing (from left), he response variables were the minimum distance from the robot that the subject selected as safe for monitoring purposes, and the perception of danger due to robot speed at the selected safe distances. The subjects selected significantly different values of safe distances from the robot arm moving at the speed of 10 cm/s, than they did for the range of robot speeds from 20 to 40 cm/s. The corresponding perception of danger due to the robot motions at the selected safe distances was the lowest for the speed of 10 cm/s, while the values of perceived danger for the speed range of 20-40 cm/s did not significantly differ between each other. The above results indicate that the range of slow speeds of robot motions from 20 to 40 cm/s is similarly perceived by the subjects with respect to the potential hazards from the moving robot arm. It was suggested that the safe slow speed of robot motions for teaching and programming purposes lies somewhere between 10 and 20 cm/s, and that current recommendation of 25.0 cm/s for safe reduced speed of robot motions should be redefined.
Warning Signal Design: A Key Human Factors Issue in an In-Vehicle Front-To-Rear-End Collision Warning System
Authors: Horowitz Avraham D. , Dingus Thomas A.
Published: July 2017

Warning signal effectiveness issues associated with the design of a front-to-rear-end collision warning system are discussed. Potential negative effects are that warnings may occur rarely, startling the driver and adding to cognitive load and stress, or alternatively, warnings may occur frequently and be ignored by the driver. To minimize negative effects, four design concepts are considered: (a) a graded sequence of warnings, from mild to severe, (b) a parallel change in modality, from visual to auditory, (c) individualization of warnings, and (d) a headway – distance to lead car – display.
Relative Contribution of Likelihood and Severity of Injury to Risk Perceptions
Authors: Young Stephen L. , Wogalter Michael S. , Brelsford John W.
Published: July 2017

The degree of caution that people are willing to take for a given product is largely determined by their perceptions of the risk associated with that product. Research suggests that risk perceptions are determined by the objective likelihood or probability of encountering potential hazards (Slovic, Fischhoff, and Lichtenstein, 1979). However, there is also research suggesting that objective likelihood plays little or no role in determining risk perceptions. Rather, risk is determined by the subjective dimension of the hazard or in other words, the severity of injury (Wogalter, Desaulniers and Brelsford, 1986, 1987). The present research examined aspects of these two studies in an attempt to reconcile the observed differences. Subjects evaluated either the Wogalter et al. (1986, 1987) products or the Slovic et al. (1979) items on eight rating questions. Results demonstrated that severity of injury was the foremost predictor of perceived risk for the Wogalter products, but that likelihood of injury was primarily responsible for ratings of risk for the Slovic items. The two lists differed substantially on all the dimensions evaluated, suggesting that the content of the lists is responsible for the contrary findings. In a second study, subjects rated another set of generic consumer products. These ratings showed a pattern of results similar to the Wogalter products. Overall, this research: (a) explains the basis for conflicting results in the risk perception literature, and (b) demonstrates that severity of injury, and not likelihood of injury, is the primary determinant of people's perceptions of risk for common consumer products.
The Influence of Location and Pictorials on Behavioral Compliance to Warnings
Authors: Wogalter Michael S. , Kalsher Michael J. , Racicot Bernadette M.
Published: July 2017

The efficacy of two warning-related factors to produce cautionary behavior in a chemistry laboratory task was examined. Experiment 1 compared the effects of a posted-sign warning and a within-instruction warning on behavioral compliance. The results showed that a warning embedded in a set of task instructions produced significantly greater compliance (the wearing of protective gear) than a similar, larger warning posted as a sign nearby. Experiment 2 reexamined the effect of location and also examined the influence of the presence versus absence of pictorials. The results of Experiment 2 confirmed the location effect of Experiment 1. No influence of pictorials was noted, although there was a nonsignificant increase in compliance when pictorials were added to the within-instruction warning. The results indicate that warning placement is important for eliciting behavioral compliance to safety messages. Explanations such as differences in field of view and perceived relevance are discussed.
Team Usability Testing: Are two Heads Better than One?
Authors: Hackman George S. , Biers David W.
Published: July 2017

The purpose of the study was to compare a team usability testing paradigm with that of the typical single user paradigm in terms of the quantity and quality of the user's verbalization (i.e. thinking out-loud) and performance. The study employed a three group design in which the type of usability paradigm (Single, Observer, Team) was manipulated. Users first learned to use an off-the-shelf database management package by means of a short tutorial and then engaged in six structured tasks. While engaging in the tasks, the users either thought-out-loud alone (Single condition), in the presence of an observer (Observer condition), or as participants of a team working on the tasks together (Team condition). Results indicated that there were no significant differences among the three conditions in terms of performance nor any extensive differences in their subjective evaluation of the software. However, users in the Team condition spent more total time verbalizing than those in the Single or Observer condition. More importantly, results of a verbal protocol analysis revealed that the Team spent more time making statements which had high value for designers than did the other two conditions (which did not differ from one another). When broken out by individual users in the Team, there were no significant differences between individual team members and users in the other two conditions in making high value comments. The results suggest that the Team paradigm may be more efficient in extracting high value information without any noticeable differences in performance or subjective impression of the software.
Software Usability Testing: Do Evaluator Intervention and Task Structure Make any Difference?
Authors: Held Joseph E. , Biers David W.
Published: July 2017

The purpose of the present study was to evaluate the effect of evaluator intervention, task structure, and user experience on the user's subjective evaluation of software usability. The study employed a 2 − 2 − 2 factorial between-subjects design with two levels of Evaluator Intervention (Intervention vs. Non-Intervention), 2 levels of Task Structure (Guided-Exploration [free-form] vs. Standard Laboratory), and 2 levels of User Experience (Novice, Experienced). The users were asked to learn to use and then subjectively evaluate a restricted subset of 12 common word processing features over four hours of participation. Day 1 was a training day and Day 2 was a test day. The major finding was that the user's subjective impression of the software was affected by both user Experience and evaluator Intervention. For difficult to use word processing features, experienced users rated the features as more difficult to use under the intervention than non-intervention condition. For novice users, this difference was in the opposite direction but not significant. The same pattern of results was obtained for the subjective rating of ease of learning, overall evaluation of the software, and confidence in ability to use the software. These results were interpreted within context of attribution theory. The effect of structure, although not as prevalent, interacted with user experience in the evaluation of screen features and system capabilities. The relative lack of task structure effects was attributed to the difficulty in implementing free form learning and the number of problems encountered in use of the software under Guided Exploration which counteracted any of its benefits.
Subjects in Human Factors: Who Should they be?
Authors: Fleming Tammy E. , Morrissey Stephen J. , Kinghorn Rhonda A.
Published: July 2017

The already diverse workforce in America is expected to diversify at an even greater rate over the next decade. Projected workforce changes include those of age, gender, and race. The recently passed Americans with Disabilities Act also ensures that a growing number of persons with diverse physical needs will enter the workforce. Data from Moroney and Reising (1992) provide some clear indications of the types of subjects currently used in human factors experiments. Not surprisingly, these subjects represent a range of persons that is much less narrow than the range represented in the current and projected workforce. If not corrected, the differences between human factors subjects and those of the American workforce will increase at a magnified rate. To ensure that the results produced from human factors experiments are useful and valid, researchers should first analyze the diverse characteristics of their intended users and select subjects who possess these characteristics.
An Infection Control Programme in Primary Schools and the Wider Public Health Impact
Authors: Cleary V , Slaughter R , Heathcock R
Published: July 2017

Young schoolchildren are recognised as being at particular risk of contracting and transmitting enteric infection. (Finn and Crook, 1998/1999).

A collaborative infection control programme was designed, piloted and evaluated in six primary schools in conjunction with the local authority's public protection and education departments and the local health protection team. These pilots helped to inform the programme rolled out to all primary and special needs schools during 2002 to 2003.

A baseline sanitation survey was undertaken with the scores used to prioritise schools for infection control audits. High priority schools were audited. Medium and low priority schools were sent self-assessment packs, the results of which were subsequently validated.

Risks were communicated to each school at the time of visit with a follow-up written report. All schools received advice and support on infection control, including recommendations for improvements, updated policies and supporting educational materials.

Key findings from the programme were lack of adequate facilities for handwashing such as soap, paper towels and hot water; ineffective cleaning programmes and working practices, including awareness of Control of Substances Hazardous to Health (COSHH) (1999) and waste disposal.

Infection control guidelines have been produced for schools, together with an ongoing programme of infection control follow-up audits.
A Review of Postoperative Surgical Site Infection Rates in Hospitalised and Post-Discharge Patients Undergoing Coronary Artery Bypass Graft Surgery
Authors: Owen E , Madeo M , Davies D , Johnson G , Wadsworth P
Published: July 2017

In an attempt to reduce infection rates following coronary artery bypass graft surgery, surveillance was introduced that included post-discharge follow-up. Prospective surveillance was conducted over two periods, each of three-month duration.

Collated data indicated that using a sample size of 218 patients, 6.4% of infections occurred following discharge from the acute setting. These results had not previously been identified by the surveillance of the rate of surgical site infections occurring in in-patients alone.
Dengue Infection Among Children in the 2001 Dengue Epidemic in Chennai, Tamil Nadu, India
Authors: Kabilan L , Balasubramanian S , Sc Tewari , Arunachalam N , Thenmozhi V , Rajendran R , Satyanarayana K
Published: July 2017

In Chennai city, India, a cross-sectional serological survey of school children for flavivirus activity by haemagglutination inhibition (*HI) test (April and September, 2001) showed in the later survey a rise in the percentage of children with monotypic antibody responses to dengue virus. Entomological surveillance indicated that a higher proportion of houses were infested by Aedes aegypti in the later survey, suggesting a forthcoming dengue outbreak in Chennai.

In the last quarter of 2001, the city experienced a dengue outbreak. Our investigations in a referral paediatric hospital have revealed that 75% of the hospitalised children (143/192) with clinical dengue were confirmed serologically as dengue and one-third of them (35%, 50/143) suffered from severe dengue. Infants less than one year of age constituted 20% of total dengue infections. The mortality was very low due to early diagnosis and timely management of the cases. A small proportion (7.8%, 15/192) of the children with typical clinical dengue were negative in serological tests.

Our findings suggest that in developing countries, development of basic indicators to foretell dengue outbreaks, building of laboratory capacity for early diagnosis of dengue and ready preparedness for clinical management of the affected in hospitals may reduce dengue-related morbidity and mortality.
A Retrospective Study of Two Measures of Functional Outcome for Metacarpophalangeal Joint Replacement in Patients with Rheumatoid Arthritis
Authors: Svens Brigit , Masters Margot
Published: July 2017

With the aim of determining the relative merits of two functional assessments used to measure outcome for metacarpophalangeal joint arthroplasty and their relationship to range of motion a retrospective study was carried out on patients with rheumatoid arthritis who underwent Swanson Silastic® metacarpophalangeal joint replacement between 1986 and 1997. Records of pre-operative and post-operative functional tests were completed for 30 hands in 27 patients (64 joint replacements) and range of motion measurements on 29 hands in 26 patients (60 joint replacements). Two functional tests had been used: the Upper Extremity Function Test (33 sub-tests) for 19 hands (Group A) and the Hand Grip Test (20 sub-tests) for 11 hands (Group B). The pre-operative timing of assessments was on average 4.1 months for Group A and six months for Group B and the post-operative timing 4.1 months and 4.3 months respectively. The functional tests demonstrated an average change of 22% (CI 15.8 to 28.3) in Group A and 7.5% (CI −1.1 to 16.1) in Group B. Range of motion was calculated as Total Active Motion for all fingers and demonstrated in Group A an average change for index of 11.5° (CI −6.5 to 29.5), middle 27.3° (CI 3.3 to 51.3), ring 23.3° (CI 1.1 to 45.5) and little finger 31.7° (CI 2.8 to 59.7). Total Active Motion in Group B averaged a change for index of 12° (CI −4.0 to 28.0), middle 18.5° (CI −8.1 to 45.2), ring 9.5° (CI −13.1 to 32.0) and little finger 17.7° (CI −8.3 to 43.8). Overall a greater improvement was demonstrated with the Upper Extremity Function Test while Total Active Motion did not always show improvement. The more severe pre-operatively deformed hands showed most improvement. For those with less severely deformed hands, the Hand Grip Test may not be sensitive enough to detect functional difficulties.
8th European Congress on Performing Arts Medicine and Physiology of Music Making 13–15 October 2000
Authors: Warrington Joan
Published: July 2017

Professor Blum introduced the topic and aims of the meeting which were to emphasise the interdisciplinary exchange of experience regarding prevention, diagnostics and methods of treatment for the musician's hand. Although the hand cannot be separated from the rest of the body, spirit and soul, it is important to concentrate on the detail of the hand to assist in establishing new concepts in treatment and prevention of musician's injuries. We were extremely fortunate to enjoy two cello suites by J.S. Bach by Professor Berger from the Gutenberg University music department. This certainly set the focus for a music medicine conference.
Inshalah - Lessons in Hand Therapy in Qatar
Authors: Kennedy Sue
Published: July 2017

In August 1997 I was invited to teach a Hand Therapy course in Qatar. My first question was -is it safe? I was assured that Qatar is one of the most liberal of the Middle East countries, as long as I dressed and hehaved modestly.
Rehabilitation of Ligamentous Injuries of the Wrist
Authors: Otthiers Jacques
Published: July 2017

The wrist is the indispensable link between the upper limb and the hand, its main role is to orientate the hand in different functions and grips.
The Effect of Fingernail Length on Hand Performance
Authors: Parsley Carole
Published: July 2017

A study into fingernail length and functional performance was presented by CWS Jansen and described as ‘The short term effects of long nails on the functional ability of non-injured females’. The study was carried out by CWS Jansen, SF Viegas and RM Patterson from the University of Texas Medical Branch, Department of Physical Therapy Galveston, Texas, USA.
Mutilating Hand Injuries - Acute Management
Authors: Leveridge Annette
Published: July 2017

Having enjoyed the two days congress at the Hyatt Regency Convention Centre, all the IFSHT delegates were looking forward to meeting with the surgeons at the Vancouver Trade and Convention Centre, Canada Place. The Centre is situated on the edge of downtown Vancouver facing directly onto the waterfront at Coal Harbour where the cruise liners dock to take board the passengers bound for Alaska. This was to be my destination when the conference was over.
The Proximal Interphalangeal Joint: Surgical and Mobilisation Options
Authors: Bain Gregory I , Mehta Janak A
Published: July 2017

Injuries to the proximal interphalangeal joint (PIPJ) of the finger are common in ball sports (Burton & Eaton 1973) and are often caused by hyperextension and axial loading, resulting in impaction of the volar articular surface of the middle phalanx against the condyles of the proximal phalanx (Eaton & Malerich 1980). PIPJ injuries are frequently missed and pain, stiffness, instability and degenerative arthritis are a common sequelae (Agee 1987; Dennys et al 1992; Eaton & Malerich 1980; Hastings & Carroll 1988; Robertson et al 1946; Schenck 1986; Viegas 1992). Injuries involving the PIPJ present a therapeutic dilemma, and the wide spectrum of treatment options reflects the diversity and inherent complexity of managing these injuries.
Nerve Repair: Current Concept and Future Prospectives: Guest Editorial
Authors: Lundborg Göran
Published: July 2017

Repair of injured peripheral nerves belongs to the most challenging problems in reconstructive surgery (Lundborg 1993). A fresh clean-cut transection of the median nerve at wrist level may be meticulously repaired by the use of microsurgical techniques, but the functional outcome of the procedure is unpredictable. The magnitude of the problem increases with more extensive nerve injuries where a segmental defect in the nerve has to be bridged by nerve grafts. Hand surgeons and hand therapists may be frustrated by the situation since the repair may be technically perfect and the rehabilitation is carried out in accordance with the latest concepts, still the outcome may be disappointing.
Research in Clinical Testing of Sensibility: A Personal Journey
Authors: Bell-Krotoski Judith
Published: July 2017

It is a distinct honour and a pleasure to be asked to address the British Association of Hand Therapists. My work has been intertwined in so many ways with persons and knowledge originating in Britain. Simply put, our roads have often crossed, and we share similar objectives and problems.
Pain: A Literature Review and Implications for Practice
Authors: Stephenson Richard
Published: July 2017

Pain is a highly complex phenomenon involving sensory, affective and cognitive components. This paper reviews the nociceptive (noxious sensory) system associated with trauma to the hand. Potential physiological mechanisms that may generate altered pain states and complicate presenting features in clients are focused upon. Specific attention is given to peripheral nociception and the potential role of the limbic system in the integration of sensory, cognitive and affective domains. Mechanisms of cellular plasticity contributing to pain states such as allodynia, hyperalgesia, hyperesthesia, sympathetic and referred pain are offered. Potential therapeutic ways of modulating pain and influencing the frequency and patterning of nociceptive information are considered.
Entonox - An Effective Analgesic for Painful Physiotherapy Procedures
Authors: Roe Alison , Peck Fiona
Published: July 2017

At the Burns unit at Withington Hospital in Manchester the use of Entonox (50% nitrous oxide and 50% oxygen gaseous mixture) as a supplementary analgesic is routine for pain experienced during therapy procedures. An audit of patient's perceived pain levels during physiotherapy was commissioned to prove a need for extra Entonox units in order to allow its more widespread use, by therapists, in trauma and orthopaedics. Results of the study showed significant increases in pain during physiotherapy procedures and in most cases a return to pre-treatment levels after five minutes. Presentation of the data to the trust management resulted in the purchase of two new Entonox units and a subsequent improvement in patient care.
Accreditation of Prior Learning (APL)
Authors: Fraser-Holland E Naomi
Published: July 2017

For some time, and in response to the expressed needs of its members, the British Association of Hand Therapists (BAHT) has offered a programme of post qualification education based on validated courses in Hand Therapy. Successful course attendants are awarded a certificate for each course, together with the appropriate number of BAHT credit points which contribute to the qualification of Accredited Hand Therapist (BAHT). However, many of our leading hand therapists, through years of dedicated service to the management and care of people with disorders of the hand, have already achieved the learning objectives of these courses. The numbers of such highly skilled and experienced therapists is increasing within the UK. It is not appropriate that attendance at BAHT courses should be their sole means of gaining recognition for their undoubted expertise.

BAHT is extended its post qualification education programme in order to recognise these highly experienced therapists. It has taken a considerable amount of preparation but a reliable and consistent system for evaluating the expertise of hand therapists has now been developed. The system is known as the BAHT accreditation of prior learning (BAHT APL).
How Ready Is Higher Education Faculty for Engaged Student Learning? Applying Transtheoretical Model to Measure Service-Learning Beliefs and Adoption
Authors: Hou Su-I , Wilder Shannon
Published: July 2017

This study examined service-learning (SL) beliefs and participation among faculty in different stages of involvement to develop tailored resources and support. A representative sample of 1,200 faculty members at a major public university in Southeast United States was recruited. The study used the transtheoretical model (TTM) as an innovative way to group SL involvement into five stages: unaware (U), pre-contemplation (PC), contemplation (C), preparation (Prep), and action and maintenance (A/M). Perceived benefits and barriers at different levels were assessed. The distribution among faculty who completed the online survey ( n = 450, 60% males) across stages was 20% (U), 31% (PC), 16% (C), 10% (Prep), and 23% (A/M). Analyses showed significant differences on the 4 SL beliefs, F(3, 358) ranged from 7.05 to 78.31, all p< .001, across stages. This study provides the first valuable empirical data to support the application of TTM to the SL arena and identified salient variables influencing faculty involvement across stages.
The Organoleptic Performance of LDPE Containing Vitamin E in Aseptic Liquid Packaging
Authors: van Leeuwen M. N. G. Storm , Kuijk E. W. , Wullms G.
Published: July 2017

During the last decades the quality requirements for foodstuffs have become progressively higher. Many research programs have been dedicated to the development of materials with improved packaging and organoleptic performance. In this respect, the shelf life of foodstuffs is a key success factor for the packaging material. In this paper an investigation is presented covering the effects of vitamin E (α-Tocopherol) in extrusion coating LDPE, whereby storage of water in aseptic liquid packaging is simulated. In these experiments LDPE cast films have been aged in water during one year at 40'C. Off taste of the water has been determined by a taste panel, and the film and water samples have been analysed by several analytical techniques. Comparison of the LDPE with and without vitamin E showed a significant improvement of shelf life of the packaged water. The formation of low molecular weight oxidation products of LDPE during processing and during aging was suppressed by the vitamin E, thereby avoiding deterioration of the taste of water.
NOx and Mechanical Degradation of Blown Extruded Nylon-6 Film
Authors: Burkholz J. K. , DeVries K. L.
Published: July 2017

Non-oriented blown extruded nylon-6 film experiences a significant degradation in tensile properties when exposed to the common industrial air pollutants, nitrogen oxides (NO,). The extent of degradation was found to increase with increasing NO, concentration and exposure time, but was found to be largely unaffected by the state of stress of the material during exposure. This demonstrates that non-oriented nylon-6 film does not experience a synergism between an applied load and exposure to NO,, as is seen in highly oriented nylon-6 fibers [1]. Viewed microscopically, the degradation is seen to be a diffusion controlled, oxidative, surface embrittlement phenomena.
New Resins For Fresh-Cut Produce Packaging
Authors: Wooster Jeffrey J.
Published: July 2017

Through the use of molecular design, a new AFFINITY* polyolefin plastomer (POP-1) has been designed for use in the packaging of fresh-cut produce items that have high respiration rates. These items cannot be successfully packaged in the same films used for fresh-cut produce items that have lower respiration rates, such as iceberg lettuce. Produce items having high respiration rates include most fruits and many dark green vegetables such as broccoli and spinach.

Film made from the new resin combines a high oxygen transmission rate with other necessary performance properties that are normally sacrificed with increasing oxygen transmission rate. Other properties achieved include sufficient modulus for use on vertical form/fill/seal machinery, excellent optics for maximum consumer appeal, easy processing on both extrusion and packaging equipment, and excellent seal performance including low initiation temperatures for both heat seal and hot tack, high hot tack strength and a broad seal window.