bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Sampling error and other statistical problems with query-based situation awareness measures
Authors: Landry Steven J. , Yoo Hyo-sang
Published: October 2012

An analysis of query-based measures for situation awareness was conducted, focusing on the effect of sampling from among the population of possible queries and the assumption that all queries are equally likely to be answered correctly across the population of participants. The analysis, which utilized Monte Carlo simulations, demonstrate that sampling from among the possible queries reduces the power of statistical tests, and the assumption of equal likelihood may result in a misleading portrayal of the results.
Trust in Computers and Robots: The Uses and Boundaries of the Analogy to Interpersonal Trust
Authors: Atkinson David , Hancock Peter , Hoffman Robert R. , Lee John D. , Rovira Ericka , Stokes Charlene , Wagner Alan R.
Published: October 2012

Trust is a complex concept having many meanings and hinting at many variables, and is not a single concept, or state, or continuum. Panelists will briefly argue their stances concerning concepts of trust in automation, and whether (or to what extent) our understanding of trust in automation should be addressed by analogy to interpersonal trust. There is considerable divergence of opinion on these matters, and on the question of whether it is possible for robots to engage in trustworthy relations with humans.
Investigating the Relation between Cognitive Load and Creativity in the Conceptual Design Process
Authors: Sun Ganyun , Yao Shengji
Published: October 2012

Numerous studies have been done to assist designers in generating creative concepts. However, few studies focus on satisfying designers’ cognitive demands. As the first step of addressing this issue, this paper attempts to investigate the relation between cognitive load and creativity in the conceptual design process. A pilot study was conducted with nine participants divided into experienced and novice groups. Cognitive load was evaluated by the intensity of mental effort. Creativity evaluation was based on four measures: novelty, variety, quality, and quantity. The results indicate that mental effort is more related to novelty and quantity, while experience in design has more effect on variety and quality. The relation between mental effort and creativity was investigated from the perspective of cognitive efficiency, which shows that the experienced group has relatively higher scores in cognitive efficiency than the novice group.
Exploring human error in an RPA target detection task
Authors: Swanson Leah , Jones Eric , Riordan Brian , Bruni Sylvain , Schurr Nathan , Sullivan Seamus , Lansey Jonathan
Published: October 2012

Intelligence, Surveillance, and Reconnaissance (ISR) sensing platforms are becoming increasingly complex. Consequently, the fidelity of collected data is continuing to increase, along with the number of deployable sensors that retrieve these data, such as those found on Remotely Piloted Aircraft (RPAs). There are numerous, critical challenges when designing ISR systems because the technology and the human are tightly integrated, resulting in interdependent performance and behaviors. Predicting operator error can inform more effective means of managing erroneous decisions, but current methods of doing so are impractical because of the effort required to construct operator models. We explored human performance in a target detection task by conducting a human-in-the-loop experiment that examined the performance of operators who simultaneously monitored four simulated RPA video feeds and determined the presence of targets at points of interest (POIs). The results of this experiment confirm that performance varies significantly across certain flight conditions (e.g., combinations of altitude, speed, aspect angle). A statistical model was constructed from the human data to predict operator error in new situations. In future work, the model predictions will be integrated with an automated flight planner that will adjust RPA air tasking orders in real time and intelligently revisit POIs when human error is likely.
Memory and Recognition of a Non-Target During a Threat Detection Visual Search Task
Authors: Liechty Molly , Madhavan Poornima
Published: October 2012

Context plays an important role in visual search tasks. The ability of people to form implicit associations about the objects in the world around them not only assists them in focusing their attention but also in simplifying their world. The goal of this study was to investigate whether, and how, people utilize “distractors” as contextual cues during a visual target search. Twenty undergraduate participants performed a luggage-screening task, where they were asked to locate a specific target (a knife). First, participants were trained using 25 luggage images, each of which contained a target (i.e., knife) and a specific distractor (i.e., iPod). During the post-training session, participants screened 100 bags with target base rate set at 50%. The bags contained either the distractor and the target (25 bags), the target only (25 bags), the distractor only (25 bags), or neither the distractor nor the target (25 bags). Participants’ dwell times and fixation counts for specific areas of interest (AOI) were assessed across trial blocks. It was found that recognition of the distractor object increased across trials but the dwell time and number of fixations decreased as the experiment progressed. These results demonstrate that participants were able to recognize the distractor and form an implicit association between its presence and the presence of the target. Results also indicated that the presence of the distractor ultimately biased participant response, creating more “liberal” responses over time.
Tailored Performance-based Adaptive Levels of Automation
Authors: Calhoun Gloria L. , Ruff Heath A. , Spriggs Sarah , Murray Crystal
Published: October 2012

Adaptive automation may help balance system autonomy with human interaction in supervisory control environments. The present experiment evaluated application of performance-based adaptive automation for an image analysis/decision task in a multiple autonomous vehicle simulation. An asymmetrical algorithm was employed in which the performance threshold differed for the two steps of the adaptive cycle: 1) increasing level of automation (to relieve participant when overloaded) and 2) decreasing level of automation (to re-engage participant when less loaded). Results showed that performance-based adaptation of the autonomy level improved both the speed and accuracy of performance on the image analysis task. Most participants indicated that adaptive automation reduced their cognitive workload and aided situation awareness. Additionally, the results suggest that the asymmetrical algorithm used to implement performance-based adaptation helped keep participants at a lower autonomy level where automation-induced problems are less likely.
Supporting Dynamic Re-Planning In Multiple Uav Control: A Comparison of 3 Levels of Automation
Authors: Prinet Julie C. , Terhune Andrew , Sarter Nadine B.
Published: October 2012

Unmanned Aerial Vehicle (UAV) control currently requires multiple operators to supervise the mission of a single vehicle. The goal is to improve this ratio and have a single operator supervise up to 10 UAVs. Achieving this goal requires the introduction of automated systems that support multitasking and decision-making. However, there is uncertainty about the appropriate level of automation (LOA). The present study compared re-planning performance at three LOAs (manual, intermediate, full automation) of 30 participants who each supervised 9 UAVs. Full automation resulted in the best re-planning performance and matched intermediate automation in terms of target detection. The manual condition showed significantly poorer performance on these tasks, especially in high workload, but suffered the smallest loss of UAVs. Subjectively, most participants preferred intermediate automation, which they trusted more than full automation. The findings from this research help inform UAV system design and add to the knowledge base in human-automation collaboration.
Exploring Cognitive Readiness in Complex Operational Environments: Advances in Theory and Practice
Authors: Cuevas Haydee M. , Schmorrow Dylan D.
Published: October 2012

Cognitive readiness refers to the mental preparation (including knowledge, skills, abilities, and attitudes) an individual needs to establish and sustain competent performance in complex and unpredictable operational environments (Morrison & Fletcher, 2002). Over the past decade, the scientific research community has endeavored to optimize human performance in complex domains through a better understanding of the cognitive, behavioral, and attitudinal aspects of cognitive readiness, at both the individual and team level. The goal of this symposium is to add to this growing body of work by presenting the latest advances in cognitive readiness research in terms of both theory development and practical applications across domains.
Conceptualizing Cognition at Multiple Levels in Support of Training Team Cognitive Readiness
Authors: Fiore Stephen M. , Rosen Michael A. , Pavlas Davin , Jentsch Florian
Published: October 2012

Many operational domains require rapid and adaptive responses from individuals, teams, and larger organizational units to address dynamic and unpredictable environmental demands. These create a number of challenges to effective performance and consequently pose many challenges to training theory. This paper presents a framework for conceptualizing these multi-level processes in the context of training theory for team cognitive readiness. We submit that the development of theory for the individual, team, and team-of-teams level, as well as for across levels, is necessary for team cognitive readiness. From this, we can better target the design and test of training methods in support of team cognitive readiness.
Using System-Generated Mnemonics to Improve the Usability and Security of Password Authentication
Authors: Juang Kevin A. , Ranganayakulu Sanjay , Greenstein Joel S.
Published: October 2012

Due to fundamental human nature, it is exceedingly difficult for people to generate secure passwords on their own. System-generated random passwords can be secure but are often unusable, which is why most passwords are still created by humans. Research has been done to try to leverage the security of system-generated passwords but improve their usability through the use of mnemonics, or memory aids. We developed a simple system for automatically generating mnemonics and conducted a study to compare it with user-generated mnemonic and no mnemonic conditions. We found that participants remembered their passwords significantly better using the system-generated mnemonic condition compared to the other conditions. We also found that participants gave our system the highest overall usability ratings.
The Effects of Automation Reliability and Experience on Attention in a Computer Environment
Authors: Cullen Ralph H. , Rogers Wendy A. , Fisk Arthur D.
Published: October 2012

Computer environments are often complex and require operators to work on multiple tasks at once. Diagnostic automation is purported to help by telling the operator when and where to look, but imperfect reliability and the question of experience with the system provide an open question to research. In this study, we asked 60 participants to interact with a multiple-task computer system representative of the demands of work to test whether experience with the automation would change the way participants allocated their attention between the tasks and efficiency in interacting with the system. We found that highly reliable automation provided not only an overall benefit but an improvement with experience. Less reliable automation provided an overall benefit but no additional gains with experience. The reliability of diagnostic automation in computer applications, then, should be designed with consideration for reliability; only at greater levels will experience with the system provide additional benefits.
Task-Centered Context Manager for Customer Relationship Management Systems
Authors: Wu Min , Bhowmick Arin
Published: October 2012

In the customer relationship management (CRM) environment, agents tend to multitask. But the current CRM systems are not task-centered and therefore hinder the agent’s multitasking performance. We proposed the task-centered context manager, which better matches the agent’s mental model by focusing on the tasks that an agent is working on. The task-centered context manager automatically creates contexts, each for a separate task. It provides a flexible context switching mechanism for agents to easily go back and forth between tasks. And its priority-driven interface helps agents focus on important tasks. A formative usability evaluation indicated that our task-centered context manager was very well received by participating agents as evidenced by the overall System Usability Scale score of 88.5.
Fast, Formal, & Beautiful: Effectively Capture, Document, and Communicate User Workflow Information for Designing Complex Healthcare Software Systems
Authors: Costa Jean M. R. , Zheng Xianjun Sam , Filho Roberto S. Silva , Song Xiping
Published: October 2012

Successful user interface design for complex healthcare software systems requires a solid analysis and understanding of the users’ workflow so that designers can create a solution that delivers the “right information to the right user at the right time” thus better supporting users’ tasks and workflow. In spite of the current availability of several successful workflow modeling notations and tools (e.g., UML, Little JIL), none of these have been widely applied by user experience (UX) designers in their day-to-day practice. This observation motivated our study of tools and practices employed by UX designers in their day-to-day work. Our goal is to understand how designers currently capture, document, and communicate users’ workflow information, and also to identify opportunities for refinement and adaptation of these approaches to their practice. In order to answer these questions, we conducted a contextual inquire, analyzing the work of designers with respect to three main concerns: process, communication and tools. The result is a set of implications for tool design, and a discussion of a possible method that seeks to make formal workflow modeling more suitable for designers.
A Comparison of User Preferences and Reported Compliance with the Bite Counter and the 24-Hour Dietary Recall
Authors: Salley James N. , Scisco Jenna L. , Muth Eric R. , Hoover Adam
Published: October 2012

With two-thirds of the U.S. population being either overweight or obese, accurate tools for self-monitoring eating behaviors are needed for both research and personal purposes. To increase user compliance, these tools should be easy to use and impose a minimal burden on the user. The present study compares user preferences and compliance with the Bite Counter, a wrist-worn device designed to monitor eating behavior by counting bites, to the Internet-based Automated Self-Administered 24-hour dietary recall (ASA24). Eighty-three participants used the Bite Counter and the ASA24 for two weeks. At the end of the two-week period, participants were asked to rate their preference, compliance, and the ease of use for the two tools. 76% of the participants preferred the Bite Counter to the ASA24. Participants consistently used both tools. The Bite Counter was significantly easier to use, according to subjective ratings. These results indicate that users may be more likely to use the Bite Counter consistently than 24-hour dietary recalls.
The Transition from Analog to Digital NOTAMs: A Tool to Support Human Performance
Authors: Josias Liza , Miller Jacob A. , Krokos Kelley J. , White Corinne E.
Published: October 2012

The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) is modernizing the United States Notices to Airmen (NOTAM) System by transitioning from an analog system to a digital system for originating and tracking NOTAMs. This shift will enable the FAA to organize the different elements of aeronautical information into separate data fields. The resulting data will be machine readable, which will support users’ ability to sort, filter, and manage the volume of electronic NOTAM information. The new system comprises a suite of digital software products designed by the FAA. As part of the suite, the FAA developed a web-based software application called Digital NOTAM Manager ( NOTAM Manager), which airport and FAA Technical Operations personnel use to create digital NOTAMs. This demonstration will present the capabilities of NOTAM Manager and discuss the human factors benefits and challenges of NOTAM Manager to NOTAM originators and end users.
Evaluation of Integrated and Inclusive Pedagogy for Cognitive Communications
Authors: Smith-Jackson Tonya , Bose Tamal , Dietrich Carl , Hsieh George , Xin Chunsheng , DePoy Daniel , Thamvichai Ratchaneekorn
Published: October 2012

Educational systems, especially in STEM disciplines, continue to be challenging in terms of effective design of pedagogies and environments to support teaching and learning. There is a need for more empirical investigations of the effectiveness of specific pedagogies. As part of a cognitive communications curriculum for engineering and computer science students, learning modules were developed through a partnership between Virginia Tech and Norfolk State University. A quasi-experimental design was used, including pre- and post-test measures of cognitive communications self-efficacy and performance on lab assignments. Results were mixed in terms of effectiveness. Criteria for engagement were fully met and self-efficacy increased significantly for one of the self-efficacy items. However, student performance based on lab assignments did not fully meet the criteria. Issues contributing to the lack of effectiveness are discussed as well as extended analyses of the data to further explore student performance. .
Structural Measures of Undergraduate ePortfolios in Three Educational Contexts
Authors: Birckbichler Julie , Bolt Taylor , O’Hara Christine , Rinz Alexa , Rollo Amanda , Marshall Cynthia , Stephens Benjamin
Published: October 2012

Undergraduate-constructed eportfolios from three programs were used to promote learning goals and aid assessment. We developed objective structural measures of these eportfolios to quantify their descriptions as a function of their context as well as their connections to learning outcomes. ePortfolio objective measures included number of pages, internal links, external links, crosslinks, and document links at hierarchical levels within the website. Results showed strong and significant hierarchical organization, high variability, and high productivity in two educational contexts (a summer research program and a “capstone course”), compared to a third context (a general education eportfolio). These results indicate promise for objective measures of eportfolios as accurate and comprehensive descriptions that may differentiate program learning and assessment goals.
Student Perceptions of their Educational and Skill Needs in the Workplace
Authors: Moroney William F. , Rantanen Esa M.
Published: October 2012

The Human Factors and Ergonomics Society’s Education and Training Committee and the Early Career Committee identified the need to evaluate the effectiveness of graduate education in the field of human factors/ergonomics and identify areas requiring improvement. Consequently, a survey to determine the expectations of current students was developed. Fifty-eight students, from a variety of colleges and universities, completed the survey. The findings of this survey were contrasted with finding of an earlier survey, which focused on new professionals (individuals with less than five years experience in the field). Considerable overlap between the groups was noted. Of particular interest was the reliance of both groups on material obtained through the Internet and through social networks. Both groups indicated a need for applied research methods and statistics, application of knowledge learned, and various aspects of design. The ability to write specifications and requirements documents for a wider business audience was also recognized. Both students and new professionals emphasized the need for properly supervised internships, which focus on developing their skills in human factors/ergonomics and provide them with opportunities to work as team members and improve their interdisciplinary communication skills.
Multi-media Global Human Factors Distance Education
Authors: Freivalds Andris , Yun Myung Hwan
Published: October 2012

In the fall semester of 2009, we had the unique opportunity to develop and teach a human factors course presented to students simultaneously at Penn State University (PSU) in the USA and Seoul National University (SNU) in South Korea. This was partially in response to both department strategic plans for a greater focus on global engineering and to increasing numbers of graduating students working for multinational companies. This paper presents some of the logistical and multicultural issues that arose with the first offering of the course and some insights for those universities and faculty members who may be attempting to prepare similar courses in the future. Pre- and post-course surveys showed that intercultural awareness levels increased over the duration of the course, especially for PSU students. Intercultural anxiety was relatively high for both groups of students at the start of course, but decreased over the duration of the course, for SNU students. In terms of on-line communication channels, e-mail and Skype were preferred over Wiggio. In the future, we will also rely more on Skype. Also, the course at PSU was first tested for graduate students. To increase international collaboration, especially for native-born American students, the course was later opened to undergraduate students. The course is now offered for the third time.
Leveraging the Use of Mobile Applications to Increase Knowledge Retention in a Classroom Lecture
Authors: Harnish Drew , Ling Chen , Shehab Randa
Published: October 2012

This research sought to determine if the use of mobile applications (e.g., iPhone® apps) had an impact on students’ ability to learn new material. A control group was compared against a group of students who used mobile devices during a statistics lecture. Students participated separately in a lecture followed by a period of either pencil and paper only or technology-assisted examples. They then took a quiz over the material. The data collected shows that the app group outperformed the control group on every question and scored 16% higher overall. A post-experimental survey found that participants in the app group felt strongly that mobile applications helped them understand the new concepts more clearly and were more confident in their ability to quickly learn this new material than the control group. Overall, this research demonstrates that technology-assisted learning positively impacts students’ learning. It also suggests that technology is changing the way people think and learn.
Universal Design India Principles; A Contextual Derivative for Practice
Authors: Khare Rachna , Mullick Abir
Published: October 2012

This paper presents a methodical collaborative effort of a team of industrial designers, architects, ergonomists and access consultant from prestigious academic institutions and proactive NGOs in India, who made a joint attempt to reformulate ‘Five Universal Design India Principles (UDIP)’ with strong Indian idiom, to design inclusive products, environments and systems in Indian context. Dedicated to its one-third of the total world’s disabled population, second largest elderly population, and contradictions of large poor population living in second fastest growing economy, these five Universal Design India Principles intend to build consensus on contextual definition and principles of practice to address the needs of its diverse population.
Effects of ramp slope on usability when a wheelchair is propelled by attendant
Authors: Kim Chung Sik , Lee Donghun , Chung Min K.
Published: October 2012

Many wheelchair users are accompanied by an attendant, but most prior studies did not consider this fact. This study investigated effects of ramp slope on wheelchair velocity and subjective discomfort considering both the wheelchair occupant and the attendant while ascending with the occupant facing forward, descending with the occupant facing forward, and descending with the occupant facing backward. Forty (20 male, 20 female) participants were dividing into four groups: male – male (attendant – occupant), male – female, female – male, female – female. To evaluate the usability of the ramp, analysis considered the four levels of user group and five levels of the ramp slope (1:6, 1:8, 1:10, 1:12 and 1:14) as independent variables, and mean wheelchair velocity, attendants’ physical discomfort, and occupants’ psychological anxiety as dependent variables. Considering the opinions of both the attendant and the occupant, 1:12 was recommended as the appropriate ramp slope. Furthermore, when descending a ramp, the occupant should be able to look forward.
Evaluating public awareness of trip hazards on outdoor walkways
Authors: Kwasniak Andrew , Cuadrado Joseph , Kuzel Michael , Sinocruz Jerome
Published: October 2012

Trip-fall incidents are often associated with injuries to pedestrians. Sidewalks are susceptible to changes over time, which may result in height deviations between surfaces, creating potential trip hazards. This research assessed whether members of the general public would identify sidewalk elevation changes of various heights as a hazard, how they would rate the walking conditions in the area of the hazard, and whether they would report the condition to authorities. Results indicate that participants were generally unaware of walking surface deficiencies, even though they may regularly encounter surface defects. When specifically asked to rate conditions, participants were most likely to classify elevation changes greater than 0.75 inches as walkway hazards, and only when conditions reached that level did the majority of participants indicate a likelihood of reporting the condition.
The Moderating Effect of the Severity of Baseline Musculoskeletal Discomfort on the Effect of an Alternative Keyboard: A 5-Month Randomized Clinical Trial
Authors: Baker Nancy A. , Moehling Krissy
Published: October 2012

Objective: To determine if baseline discomfort severity would moderate differences in 5-month follow-up discomfort in those using a fixed split-angle (FSA) keyboard compared to those using a standard (ST) keyboard. Procedure: Computer operators with keyboard related musculoskeletal discomfort were randomly assigned to use an FSA keyboard or a ST keyboard in their workplace for 5 months. They reported weekly levels of discomfort using the Weekly Discomfort Survey. Result: The interaction between baseline severity and keyboard was significant. This significant interaction suggests that those who had moderate/severe baseline discomfort who used the FSA keyboard improved significantly more than: 1) those who had moderate/severe baseline discomfort who used the ST keyboard; or 2) those who had none/mild baseline discomfort and used either keyboard.
Designing with Users: A case study for design of dental workspace
Authors: Kar Gourab , Mullick Abir
Published: October 2012

Dental professionals are prone to musculoskeletal disorders and occupational health problems due to the extreme static body postures and use of repetitive hand and wrist movements. This project researched dental work practices and environments to learn about seating needs, tools and the environment that will help maintain good working posture and offer maximum body support during times of repetitive motion and hyperextension. The project also designed new tools that allow for dental work in a neutral posture; a new chair that supports the upper body during dental work; and a customizable work environment for the dental professionals.
Performance of Visually Impaired Users during Simulated Boarding and Alighting on Low-Floor Buses
Authors: Bareria Piyush , D’Souza Clive , Lenker James , Paquet Victor , Steinfeld Edward
Published: October 2012

Low-floor buses with folding ramp access represent a significant improvement in accessible public transit for passengers with mobility disabilities. However, the safety and usability aspects of the interior design of low-floor buses on blind and visually impaired users has not been studied in much detail. A laboratory study was completed using a static full-scale simulation of a low-floor bus to evaluate the impact of seating configuration and crowding on interior movement and accessibility for individuals with (n=18)) and without visual impairments (n=17). The protocol simulated bus journeys including boarding, fare payment, seating, and alighting. Results from video observations and subjective assessments showed differences in boarding and alighting performance and users’ perceptions of task difficulty across different bus layout designs The results suggest the need for more supportive design features (e.g. guide rails, handholds), legroom, and space for guide dogs too improve accommodation for passengers who are visually impaired. Such design improvements will also support a universal design approach that takes into consideration the needs of a diverse passenger population.
Most Natural and Propane (LP) Gas Service Users Report Not Having Electronic Gas Detectors
Authors: Kim Soyun , Wogalter Michael S.
Published: October 2012

Gas leaks in buildings can cause explosions and fire, which can result in serious burns, death and/or property damage. Since people may not smell the odorants added to natural and propane gas for a variety of reasons (e.g., being congested or asleep) electronic gas detectors could assist in detecting gas leaks. This study examined the extent to which electronic gas detectors are being used by persons reporting that they receive gas service. Three hundred seventy six participants were asked whether they have gas service at their residence and if so, what kind. Also they were asked what kinds of electronic gas detectors they had. Results showed that about half of the participants had gas service. While almost everyone reported having smoke detectors in their residence (whether or not they received gas service), less than half of the gas service users reported having a carbon monoxide detector. Very few gas service users (about 9%) reported having electronic gas detectors. Implications for warning about gas leaks and how HFE professional can aid in the production of better warnings in this domain are discussed.
Using Orange Traffic Cones to Warn of Pedestrian Hazards
Authors: Nemire Kenneth
Published: October 2012

A study of the effectiveness of orange traffic cones for warning of a pedestrian hazard was undertaken after an injury resulted from the reported failure of a young girl to perceive the presence of a hazard marked by orange traffic cones. Despite their common usage, there are few studies of the effectiveness of orange traffic cones for warning drivers, and none for pedestrians. Results of the study showed that orange traffic cones surrounding a hazardous area was sufficient for 97% of the young participants to perceive the presence of a hazard, and to indicate that they would avoid the hazard. Implications for future research to determine behavioral compliance are discussed.
Driver-Related Delay in Emergency Braking Response to a Laterally Incurring Hazard
Authors: Ising Kurt W. , Droll Jason A. , Kroeker Shannon G. , D’Addario Pamela M. , Goulet Jean-Francois
Published: October 2012

Collision analysis often assumes emergency deceleration begins immediately upon completion of the vehicle’s mechanical brake lag. The goal of this study is to determine the driver-related delay from initial brake application to various degrees of deceleration in a simulated emergency and to test variables contributing to the modulation of driver braking. Using the data of Mazzae et al (2003), in which drivers respond to a lateral vehicle incursion, we have assessed the contribution of Time-to-Intersection (TTI), road condition, gender and crash outcome on driver emergency brake response. In the first 0.3 second phase after initial brake application, vehicle behavior was similar across all variables as drivers reached only moderate levels of deceleration. In the second phase, drivers often took more than one second to reach emergency decelerations, especially with a longer TTI. Pavement condition, gender and crash outcome were not significant factors. We discuss the consequences of driver braking behavior in the context of driver feedback and accident reconstruction analyses.
The Effects of Texting and Driving on Hazard Perception
Authors: Burge Rondell , Chaparro Alex
Published: October 2012

Hazard perception has received little attention compared to measures of vehicle control in studies exploring the effects of texting on driving performance, despite being a more direct measure of crash risk. Furthermore, the driver strategies attempting to moderate such distraction are not well understood. The current study attempts to address these two facets of texting while driving. Participants (10 male; 10 female) drove a low fidelity simulator that measures situational awareness, while text messaging in order to assess hazard perception performance. Participants were required to identify and appropriately respond to events that would result in a collision. Two text message conditions (i.e., copying and alphabetizing a 5-letter string) were used to compare low vs. high cognitive load, respectively. Participants missed more hazards in the alphabetize-text compared to the copy-text and driving only conditions. Signal Detection Theory (SDT) analyses revealed the adoption of a more liberal response bias (B”) (i.e., participants increased false) when required to copy the text message but not when required to alphabetize. Last, participants were slower to react to hazards in the alphabetize-text condition compared to the copy-text and driving only conditions. These findings suggest that the impact of text messaging on the detection of driving hazards depends in part, on the cognitive load imposed by the text messaging task and the adoption of strategies to compensate for the interference on the driving task.
When a Dog is Just a Dog? A Case Study Evaluating the ADA Service Animal Rules
Authors: Vredenburgh Alison G. , Zackowitz Ilene B.
Published: October 2012

This case study evaluates the American’s with Disabilities Act requirements regarding service animal use. The first author was retained as a defense expert in a case where a woman placed her small dog on a table at a restaurant and when she was asked to sit at an exterior table, she sued the restaurant on the basis of disability discrimination. This paper evaluates the relevant facts of the case and clarifies when an animal qualifies as a service animal, and when a dog is just a dog.
Effects of Unity of Form and Symmetry on Visual Aesthetics of Website Interface Design
Authors: Altaboli Ahamed , Lin Yingzi
Published: October 2012

Unity of form represents the extent to which visual objects on the screen are related in size. High levels of unity of form can be achieved by using objects with similar sizes on the screen and/or by reducing number of objects on the screen. Findings of earlier observational studies suggested that effect of unity of form on perceived visual aesthetics of website design was more evident in case of highly symmetrical webpages. The purpose of this study is to verify these findings. An experiment was conducted to systematically study effects of number of objects and number of different sizes of objects on perceived visual aesthetics of website design at high and low levels of symmetry. Perceived aesthetics was assessed using the classical/expressive dimensions. Results showed that both factors have significant effects on perceived visual aesthetics, only at high levels of symmetry and only on the classical dimension.
A Framework for Human Total Ownership Cost Based On Universal Human Performance Cost Components
Authors: Ahram Tareq Z. , Karwowski Waldemar
Published: October 2012

The engagement between various human performance elements is overwhelming because the human element, at the center of each and every process, is unpredictable, highly variable, and often changes in context dependent upon the situation. Economic modelling of human total ownership cost (TOC) establishes the foundation of measuring human or manpower cost drivers as they relate to acquisition and during the lifecycle of any program. Thus, research presented in this paper attempts to build a human performance economical modeling framework based on human TOC library of artifacts that reflect human value-performance, technology trade-offs, and human performance task and mission requirements representation in terms of dollar value.
Increased Serum TNF-Alpha and Matrix Metalloproteinase-2 are Associated With Grip Strength Declines and Tissue Degeneration in a Rat Model of Overuse
Authors: Gao Helen G.L. , Fisher Paul W , Wade Christine K , Barr Ann E , Popoff Steven N , Barbe Mary F
Published: October 2012

We have shown that continued performance of repetitive tasks induces grip strength declines despite resolution of systemic inflammation. We hypothesize this is due to underlying tissue degeneration. Here, we assessed long term performance (18 weeks) of a high-repetition, low-force (HRLF) task in a rat model of reaching and grasping. We observed reduced grip strength immediately after training, and persistent grip strength declines in reach limbs of HRLF rats. Several inflammatory cytokines increased in serum of 6- and 12-week HRLF rats, e.g. tumor necrosis factor alpha (TNF-alpha). TNF- alpha was also increased in reach limb muscles and tendons at similar time points. A serum analyte of collagen degradation (matrix metalloproteinase-2, MMP2) was increased in serum of 18-week HRLF rats. MMP2 and several other MMPs, as well as two fibrogenic proteins (CTGF and TGFB1), were increased in 18-week HRLF tendons, which also showed histological signs of pathology. Thus, motor declines were associated earlier with tissue inflammation but later with tendon degenerative changes. Assaying for TNF- alpha and MMP2 provided important insights into the stages of inflammation and degradation in this model.
A tailored Top-Down Functional Analysis (TDFA) for AEGIS Ballistic Missile Defense (ABMD)
Authors: Colombo Daniel J. , Chavez Lisa , Driscoll Sean
Published: October 2012

The views expressed in this paper are those of the author and do not reflect the official policy or position of the Department of the Navy, the Department of Defense, or the U.S. Government.

A TDFA is often cited as a major analysis needed when developing a new system. However, designing new components for pre-existing U.S. Navy systems presents a unique challenge. This paper describes the application of a modified TDFA to an existing system with new capabilities and functionality. New technologies introduced in the ABMD Baseline 5.1 include the Standard Missile (SM)-3 Block (Blk) IIA, which will provide superior speed, range, and discrimination capabilities relative to earlier SM-3 missile variants. This will lead to better performance against existing threats as well as entirely new mission capabilities. However, the areas impacted by this technology comprise a small subset of the overall AEGIS Weapon System functionality. As a result, a hybrid methodology for the TDFA was developed collaboratively by industry and government teams to ensure that outputs fit into the systems engineering process and ultimately the display design process. The hybrid TDFA methodology was developed as a means to help identify the information considered necessary to support warfighter decision making during mission planning and the ability to achieve the mission goal of successful ballistic missile threat kills during mission execution. An example is provided that shows how the hybrid methodology has impacted the development of prototype displays to date. It is concluded that this hybrid TDFA approach has demonstrated utility in the development of lower level requirements for these displays and is recommended for use when the system is already well-known and only a portion of the system in design will be considered new or changed functionality.
Development of A User-Centered Virtual Liver Surgery Planning System
Authors: Yang Xiaopeng , Lee Wonsup , Choi Younggeun , You Heecheon
Published: October 2012

The present study is intended to develop a user-centered virtual liver surgery planning system called Dr. Liver which has clinical applicability and effectiveness to support liver surgery. Existing virtual surgery systems needs to be customized to liver surgery and improved for better usability and time efficiency. A use scenario of a virtual liver surgery planning system was established through literature review, benchmarking, and interviews with surgeons. Based on the use scenario, detailed liver surgery planning procedures were defined. The major functions of Dr. Liver include (1) extraction of the liver, vessels, and tumors from abdominal CT images, (2) estimation of the standard liver volume of a patient, (3) volumetry of the extracted liver, vessels, and tumors, (4) segmentation of the liver into 8 segments based on structures of the extracted portal and hepatic veins, and (5) support of surgery planning. Novel algorithms were developed and implemented into Dr. Liver for accuracy and time efficiency. Various user-friendly features such as a procedural interface of virtual liver surgery planning were integrated into Dr. Liver for better usability. Dr. Liver would be applied to safe and rational planning of liver surgery.
Comparison of Design Preferences for Mobile Phones and Blood Glucose Meters
Authors: Nathan-Roberts Dan , Liu Yili
Published: October 2012

Mobile Phones and Blood Glucose Meters are widely used personal digital input/output devices of great aesthetic and functional importance to their users. Interactive Genetic Algorithms (IGAs) are used to test for aesthetic preference links between these two devices. IGAs mimic natural selection by repeatedly having a human tester select designs they find the most aesthetically pleasing to serve as the parents of the next generation. The web-based IGA was used by 22 participants; varying button spacing, screen size, and radius of phones and glucose meters over 8 trials. Several links were found between the devices, specifically the screen-area to keypad-area ratio, and screen height to screen width ratio. IGAs show promise as a tool for designers to use a similar product to reduce the risk in a new product’s design by building on user’s current aesthetic experience.
The Prevalence of Sleep Deprivation Symptoms among Night Shift Nurses and Nurses’ Aides at the University Hospital of the West Indies
Authors: Green Fernando M. , Taveira Alvaro D.
Published: October 2012

Shift work is unavoidable in essential services such as health care. Even though working long hours into and through the night is often necessary, humans as diurnal creatures suffer adversely from it.The purpose of this study is to assess sleep related problems among nurses and nurses’ aides on the night shift at the University Hospital of the West Indies, located in Kingston, Jamaica. This information could hopefully assist hospital decision makers in better policy development. A cross-sectional study design was utilized focusing on the nursing staff on the night shift. Of a possible 176 participants 102 responded, for a response rate of 58%. The data was gathered using self-administered questionnaires and was analyzed using SPSS.The results of the study were mostly consistent with previous research on the topic. As predicted, a decrease in the number of hours of sleep was associated with increased difficulty staying awake on the job, irritability, tiredness and medical errors.
The ‘Smart Bay’ Optimizing Trauma Care of the Future
Authors: Hooper Dean , Simoens Kristin
Published: October 2012

Renowned as one of the most variable frontline environments in all of healthcare the Resuscitation bay is a ripe arena to be conceptualized for the future through a human-centered design lens. Resuscitation bays in hospital emergency departments today are poorly suited for work that requires speed, accuracy, and access to both patient and equipment. Necessary supplies are stored beyond the average reach range, and with no specific organization, cords prevent 360 degree access to the patient and critical equipment goes missing. Over the course of 5 weeks researchers conducted more than 150 hours of contextual observation to determine usability barriers looking not only at physical ergonomics but also cognitive and organization ergonomics with a goal to provide solutions to better optimize this environment for work. The result is the ‘Smart Bay’ of the future, a fully re-imagined and ergonomic (human factors compliant) environment allowing for expedient care in this critical environment.
Interruptions in the Real World: Examining the Role of Internal Versus External Interruptions in a Hospital Pharmacy
Authors: Werner Nicole E. , Nelson Erik , Miller William D. , Boehm-Davis Deborah A.
Published: October 2012

Interruptions are a common cause of errors in the pharmacy, cited as being responsible for as much as 43% of the error that occurs in medication administration. The purpose of this study was to explore the characteristics of interruptions in a hospital pharmacy setting and to determine the extent to which existing theories of interruptions can account for our findings. As a central feature of this work, we chose to examine a characteristic of interruptions seldom examined in laboratory studies, which is the source of the interruption. The findings from this study begin to suggest that the theories developed to explain the cognitive mechanisms by which people resume from interruptions do apply to the pharmacy setting. Further, the data suggest that preservation of the system state has a protective effect on performance.
Why Aren’t We Achieving Better Results? A Literature Review of Healthcare Associated Infection Interventions
Authors: Lewis Vicki R. , Parker Sarah H. , Stephens Robert J. , Clark Lindsey , Fairbanks Rollin J.
Published: October 2012

Healthcare-associated infections (HAIs) represent a considerable threat to patient and provider safety, healthcare quality, and cost of care. Given the extent of the HAI challenge, there is substantial pressure to reduce and mitigate HAIs. Viewing healthcare as a sociotechnical system (STS) allows us to design interventions to consider all of the STS factors; that is, the internal environment (people, technology, organization, and physical factors) and the external environment (outside influences, politics, policies). Although the clinical indicators of HAIs are well-studied, it is unclear what STS factors have been examined. This paper aims to determine what STS factors have been examined or involved with the development of solutions. The research team identified 213 articles and an in-depth review was conducted. Inventions to address HAIs were classified according to the aspects of an STS which were addressed. This paper summarizes findings and discusses the research gaps. Identification of gaps will allow human factors and health systems researchers design interventions that, if addressed, could potentially reduce HAIs.