bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Displaying Small Surface Features with a Force Feedback Device in a Dental Training Simulator
Authors: Thomas Geb W. , Liu Li
Published: January 2012

This paper describes two algorithms for representing small (< 100 μm) step edges with a force feedback simulator. The first algorithm is the traditional spring-damper force feedback model that represents the cursor's present position as a point. The second, new, model represents the cursor as a small sphere. A forced-choice experiment with eight participants indicates that people can judge the height of small edges more reliably with the sphere model. The results are useful for the development of simulators for training fine haptic skills. They are more generally useful to human factors professionals in the haptics community because they describe how to overcome a fundamental perceptual challenge with haptic stimulators.
Visually-Induced Motion Sickness: Effects of Adaptation
Authors: Mouloua Mustapha , Smither Janan , Kennedy Robert C. , Kennedy Robert S. , Compton Daniel E. , Drexler Julie M.
Published: January 2012

This research was designed to empirically examine the effect of adaptation training using a simulated rotary stimulation (SRS) technique on simulation sickness and inducing graded motion sickness through the systematic distortion of the relevant characteristics of two VR devices (VE and optokinetic OKN drum). Forty participants were randomly assigned to either a control (no training with SRS) or experimental (4-day training with SRS) condition. The results indicated that the experimental group who had prior training with SRS reported lower DLQ scores (Mean=2.09) than the control group participants (Mean=4.09) following VE exposure. Similarly, the experimental group who had prior training with SRS reported lower DLQ scores (Mean=1.95) than the control group participants (Mean=3.68) following OKN exposure. With regard to SSQ scores, the experimental group who had prior training with SRS reported significantly lower SSQ scores following the day 5 SRS exposure (Mean= 11.49) than the control group (Mean=1.60). Furthermore, the experimental group who had prior training with SRS reported significantly lower SSQ scores (Mean=11.75) than the control group participants (Mean=22.71) following VE exposure.
Using the Distribution of Eye Fixations to Assess Pilots' Mental Workload
Authors: Di Nocera Francesco , Camilli Marco , Terenzi Michela
Published: January 2012

Based on previous research showing the usefulness of spatial statistics in detecting randomness in the distribution of eye fixations, this study investigated the ocular behavior of professional pilots engaged in a simulated flight. The distribution of eye fixations is here used an index of mental workload. Eye movements were recorded during the different phases (departure to landing) of a simulated flight, and were analyzed using spatial statistics algorithms. Results showed sensitivity of spatial dispersion indices to variations in mental workload: higher during departure and landing, lower during the other phases. This result provides additional evidence of the utility of fixations distribution as a real-time measure of mental workload and, consequently, as a trigger for adaptive automation.
Using Relative Position and Temporal Judgments to Assess the Effects of Texture and Field of View on Spatial Awareness for Synthetic Vision Systems Displays
Authors: Bolton Matthew L. , Bass Ellen J. , Comstock James R.
Published: January 2012

Synthetic Vision Systems (SVS) depict computer generated views of terrain surrounding an aircraft. In the assessment of textures and field of view (FOV) for SVS, no studies have directly measured the 3 levels of spatial awareness: identification of terrain, its relative spatial location, and its relative temporal location. This work introduced spatial awareness measures and used them to evaluate texture and FOV in SVS displays. Eighteen pilots made 4 judgments (relative angle, distance, height, and abeam time) regarding the location of terrain points displayed in 112 5-second, non-interactive simulations of a SVS heads down display. Texture produced significant main effects and trends for the magnitude of error in the relative distance, angle, and abeam time judgments. FOV was significant for the directional magnitude of error in the relative distance, angle, and height judgments. Pilots also provided subjective terrain awareness ratings that were compared with the judgment based measures. The study found that elevation fishnet, photo fishnet, and photo elevation fishnet textures best supported spatial awareness for both the judgments and the subjective awareness measures.
Numerical Models in Representation Design: Computing Seawater Properties in an Ecological Interface
Authors: Lau Nathan , Jamieson Greg A.
Published: January 2012

The contribution of cognitive engineering in complex systems is often limited by the availability of information to populate advanced representational forms, such as those characterized by the Ecological Interface Design framework. We suggest the application of numerical models to derive required information, supplementing the analytical methods that are commonly used in computational aiding. We demonstrate the approach by presenting a solution combining numerical and analytical methods to the problem of determining seawater properties in a nuclear power plant. The example demonstrates that numerical approaches can expand the range of possible applications of representation aiding in complex systems.
Feedforward Effects on Predictions in a Dynamic Battle Scenario
Authors: Gonzalez Cleotilde , Martin Michael , Hansberger Jeffrey T.
Published: January 2012

Commanders face many challenges in their efforts to control the battlefield. Friction (i.e., sources of delay) in the commander's control system, coupled with the dynamics of the battlefield, requires commanders to act before threatening battlefield events occur. Effective control of the battlefield thus requires accurate predictions. This paper describes the results of a preliminary study concerned with the effect of FeedForward (FF) on the accuracy of predictions in dynamic battle situations. FF, given in the form of expert advice prior to simulated battle, did not reliably improve predictions. Exploratory analyses, however, indicate that FF guided attention to a subset of the task variables important for accurate prediction. Furthermore, FF produced quicker and more decisive victories than practice alone. In conjunction with the positive performance trend for the FF group, these findings indicate that FF facilitates strategy development and may lead to higher levels of Dynamic Decision Making (DDM) performance over time.
Visualizing Uncertainty to Improve Operators' Spatial Proximity Judgments in Uncertain Surroundings
Authors: Brolese Andrew , Huf Sam
Published: January 2012

Graphic representations of uncertainty have been found to be a superior method of visualizing uncertainty in aviation and maritime operations. The primary aim of the present research was to examine the extent to which various uncertainty ellipse representations (50%, 75%, 95%, and 99%) affected decision making performance when participants were asked to judge the proximities of two or three targets to an own-ship position. The research comprised two separate studies, with 300 trials in each. Each trial required participants to utilize an uncertainty ellipse surrounding each of the targets in order to determine the closest target to the own-ship. Decision making performance was assessed via target decision accuracy analyses, reaction time analyses and the discrepancy between participants' associated probability estimate and the ground truth. The impact of feedback on the accuracy of participants' judgments was also examined in Study 2. The implications of the findings to naval systems, as well as directions for future research, are proposed.
Bennefits of Decision Support Tools for Users with Differing Levels of Domain Expertese
Authors: Hayes Caroline C. , Anderson Richard A.
Published: January 2012

When designing decision support systems (DSSs) to support complex cognitive problem solving tasks, it is important to understand what classes of users (domain novices, intermediates or experts) are likely to benefit from it, and conversely, what types of benefits can one expect a given class of users (such as domain novices or experts) will derive. Unfortunately, this is not yet well understood. In this paper we examine a specific class of DSSs which assist users by generating solution options. We compared the results of this class of DSS for four domains and found that they tend to increase novices’ solution quality more than experts’, and that increase may come at the cost of more total time required to produce solutions (although this is not always the case.) Additionally, in an animal nutrition domain, we found that both experts and novices (particularly experts) tended to insist on detrimentally modifying computer generated solutions even when those solutions started out with very high quality. Lastly we discuss possible explanations and implications for DSS design.
Multiple Vantage Points of the Common Operational Picture: Supporting International Teamwork
Authors: McNeese Michael D. , Pfaff Mark S. , Connors Erik S. , Obieta Joaquin F. , Terrell Ivanna S. , Friedenberg Marc A.
Published: January 2012

This paper summarizes multiple perspectives of the common operational picture (COP) in military and civilian crisis management domains viewed from three vantage points: historical, conceptual, and practical. The term COP extends prior research on large group displays to describe a visual representation of tactical, operational, and strategic information intended to generate situation awareness. We present four strata of interest to formulate an innovative conceptual framework of the COP based on user-team needs: structure, representation, processes, and management. This conceptual framework is applied as part of a review of recent and ongoing projects that examines current research gaps in the application of geographic information systems (GIS) to international humanitarian response.
Team Communication with and without Aids for Transmitting Remote Information
Authors: Allender Laurel , McDermott Patricia L. , Luck Jason , Fisher Alia
Published: January 2012

The introduction of unmanned vehicles (UVs) and real-time electronic information presentation to military teams is intended to keep Soldiers safe and enable more effective performance. Two game-based experiments were conducted in which teams conducted a time-limited “Black Hawk Down” rescue mission with and without UV-provided information. When UV information was available, it was relayed between team members in face-to-face communication or remotely, with or without electronic maps, and with or without video images from the UV. Three types of analyses were performed. The communication content of the verbal protocol was analyzed and the use of information display technologies and employment of strategies was tabulated. The verbal protocol analyses revealed the push/pull of team communication and common confusions. Results of the technology use and strategy assessment form the basis for recommendations for display design and recommended practice for the use of such technologies in the field.
Cognitive Fieldwork in Emergency Crisis Management: Developing the I-T-P Abstraction Hierarchy
Authors: Jones Arthur C. , McNeese Michael D.
Published: January 2012

Through a work domain analysis, utilizing a mixed-methods approach, an understanding of the motivations and constraints of the emergency services domain was gathered. The domain analysis revealed a significant shortcoming of the currently-implemented systems when they are tasked to respond to atypical situations, such as mass-casualty incidents. The collected qualitative data was encoded into an abstraction hierarchy model which has been modified to represent the elemental components of an information system: information, technology, and people. The resulting I-T-P Abstraction Hierarchy model can be used to guide the design of information systems which have the capacity to scale between normal day-to-day operations, up to significantly more complex situations.
Autonomy in Human-Robot Team Control
Authors: Wang Jijun , Lewis Michael
Published: January 2012

Human control of multiple robots has been characterized by the average demand of single robots on human attention or the distribution of demands from multiple robots. When robots are allowed to cooperate autonomously, however, demands on the operator should be reduced by the amount previously required to coordinate their actions. The present experiment compares control of small robot teams in which robots were controlled either independently or coordinated via Machinetta proxies. Coordinated robots found more victims and searched wider areas.
Designing Enjoyable Videogames: Do Heuristics Differentiate Bad from Good?
Authors: Ballew Timothy V. , Jones Keith S.
Published: January 2012

How does one design a fun video game? One way to guide design is through the use of heuristics. Federoff (2002) compiled a list of design heuristics based on the gaming literature and interviews with game designers. However, these heuristics were not validated. The present study attempted to validate these heuristics by having participants play either a lowly or highly rated PC game. Participants were asked to provide a rating of overall enjoyment and then rate the applicability of each heuristic. Analysis of 133 participants' ratings of overall enjoyment indicated that non-gamers felt both games were equally enjoyable while moderate and heavy gamers found the highly rated game most enjoyable. Further analyses indicated that participants considered approximately 75% of the heuristics to be more applicable to the highly rated game than the lowly rated one. The implications for the design of new video game heuristics are discussed.
Design of a Resource Allocation Planning System
Authors: O'Hargan Kelly , Guerlain Stephanie
Published: January 2012

This paper proposes a generic human-computer software user interface design, called the Resource Allocation Planning System (RAPS), designed to support a person making resource allocation decisions with or without automation support. Although there are many algorithms for automatically solving resource allocation problems, it is often the case that human judgment is also required. Also, while there are software user interfaces to support decision-making for specific resource allocation problems, most of them serve more as organizational charts than as decision-support systems, and most of them become increasingly difficult to use as the size of the resource allocation problem increases. This paper discusses the design and rationale for RAPS and gives several examples of how RAPS can be adapted to a specific resource allocation problems.
The Multi-Dimensional Nature of Encoding Tactile and Haptic Interactions: From Psychophysics to Design Guidelines
Authors: van Jan B.F.
Published: January 2012

Designers are very well aware of the multi-dimensionality of visual stimuli and extensively use dimensions such as color, form and contrast to encode information. An analogous multi-dimensionality applies to haptic and tactile stimuli. Based on the fact that the human visual system only has two receptor types (cones and rods) while the sense of touch has closer to ten, one might argue that the design space is even larger for tactile and haptic interactions than for visual. The approach taken in this paper is to take the different sensory systems and their (perceptual) characteristics as a starting point. Bridging the gap between the neurophysiological and psychophysical data and the design guidelines can give this field a head start. For example, data on just noticeable differences of frequency, amplitude, force, and indentation can be an important driver in choosing the encoding dimension in the multidimensional haptic/tactile design space.
Challenges and Lessons Learned in Teaching a Graduate Human Factors Course on a Compressed Schedule
Authors: Sharit Joseph
Published: January 2012

There is a current tendency for industrial engineering departments to augment their Masters Degree programs with programs targeted for off-campus students who are employed full time. These programs are motivated primarily by the revenue that they can potentially generate for academic departments. In this paper we discuss one such program in which each course is compressed into three consecutive weekends, and discuss the challenges of teaching these students a course on human factors engineering under these curriculum design constraints. Examples of lessons learned in teaching this course are summarized and possible interventions in course design are discussed, with the understanding that teaching such a course affords the opportunity for achieving buy-in to the human factors and ergonomics discipline within these students' respective organizations.
Curriculum Innovation Using Job Design Theory
Authors: Sanders Katherine , Farrell Patrick V. , Pfatteicher Sarah K.A.
Published: January 2012

“Introduction to Engineering” was designed in 1994 by a cross-disciplinary group of seven engineering faculty at the University of Wisconsin-Madison. The faculty group had recently completed a nine-month team-based professional development program, where they studied, discussed, and reflected upon the learning process. The group was asked by the administration to design a course to improve the retention of freshmen engineering students, with specific emphasis on the retention of underrepresented student groups. This paper highlights the human factors and job design foundations of this course in two ways. First, in that the course itself was created using theories of work motivation taken from classic literature and applied to the “work” of learning. Second, by creating a course that ultimately would be considered service-learning, students and faculty from diverse engineering departments would need and become familiar with human factors in design.
Are Students Learning About Human Factors and Ergonomics in Introductory Psychology Textbooks?
Authors: Young Karen R. , Smith Jeffrey J. , Wogalter Michael S. , Mayhorn Christopher B. , Baucom J. Graham
Published: January 2012

An ongoing issue of the membership of the Human Factors and Ergonomics Society concerns efforts to educate audiences about human factors and ergonomics (HF/E). One important group to consider is students taking a beginning or introductory psychology course. The initial course in psychology usually reviews the scope of psychology and is taken by large numbers of individuals. In the present research, introductory psychology textbooks (n=123) published between 1969 and 2006 were consulted to identify the nature and extent of the coverage of HF/E. A clear increase in coverage was evidenced beginning in 1995. Although HF/E is now being mentioned significantly more often in newer texts, it is frequently limited in both amount and scope. The potential growth of graduate HF/E programs may be affected by the extent to which potential applicants are exposed to the discipline. Implications for HF/E are discussed and opportunities for increasing student exposure are identified.
Combining Checklists and Staff Surveys - A Powerfull Tool to Evaluate Operating Rooms
Authors: Koneczny S. , Koneczny S.
Published: January 2012

Awkward postures, potential hazards and the adaptation to sub-optimal conditions belong to the normal course of life within operating rooms (ORs) and OR units. Ergonomic deficiencies of the OR are mostly the reason therefore. Medical technical devices were found to be lacking in usability due to such as unclear symbols, impracticability, hindrances and insufficient ease in handling. The positioning of devices in the OR shows ergonomic problems that in most cases necessitates an unavoidable awkward working posture for the employees that causes pain. Potential hazards exist for the patient as well as for the OR staff. To detect those conditions a checklist for the OR was developed and evaluated in German hospitals. To confirm the objective results of the checklist, additional surveys were performed among the OR staff to gain subjective personal impressions. Combining the checklist's and the surveys' results is a powerful tool to evaluate the entire OR unit.
People Do Not Identify Tire Aging as a Safety Hazard
Authors: Cowley Jennifer A. , Kim Soyun , Wogalter Michael S.
Published: January 2012

Tires are among the most critical components of motor vehicles, requiring proper maintenance to minimize the risks of accidents associated with failure. Tire failures at high speeds in vehicles such as SUVs have resulted in vehicle rollovers, serious injuries and occupant death. Tire degradation, as a result of age-related factors, can be contributor to tire failure for which many people may have little awareness. A total of 225 participants (101 non-student adults and 124 college students) were asked to list all contributors that they believed could cause tire problems. Although most respondents mentioned one or more causes of tire failure, only 4.0% of the participants mentioned tire aging as a cause. These results suggest that a substantial proportion of the population is not aware of tire aging as a potential hazard. Implications for a multi-method labeling and warning system are described
Learning from Investigation: Experience with Understanding Healthcare Adverse Events
Authors: Nemeth Christopher P. , Cook Richard I. , Donchin Yoel , Dierks Meghan , Patterson Emily , Bitan Yuval , Crowley Jay , McNee Stephanie , Powell Tina
Published: January 2012

Thorough, objective investigation of medical adverse events rarely happens due to the complexity of the environment, litigation, risk, and socio-political implications. Special concerns can, and do, undermine investigation depth, breadth, and quality. Healthcare's distinct difference from other high hazard sectors requires a unique approach to adverse event investigation. We report on the initial results of a 15-month pilot program now underway to model a national healthcare investigation team. An example of adverse event investigation and organizational response illustrates these issues.
A Reporting System of Difficulties and Hazards in Hospital Wards as a Guide for Improving Human Factors and Safety
Authors: Morag Ido , Gopher Daniel
Published: January 2012

Cotemporary efforts for improving healthcare safety are almost exclusively dependent on the study of adverse events as their primary information source. Investigations of adverse events have had an important role and contribution to the recognition of the magnitude of the healthcare problem, but are of a limited scientific value. Error investigations are the wisdom of hindsight, based on partial and biased sample, lacking base rate reference and distorted by reporter's memory and interests. This paper describes an alternative approach based on self reports of medical staff, on daily reoccurring hazards and performance difficulties, representing human factors and safety aspects. Reports are evaluated by a human factors team, and corrective steps are proposed, and backed by management. We describe the logic and elements of the new approach, and bring results from four wards belonging to two hospitals. These results are compared with data obtained in 5 years, using conventional incident reporting systems.
The Performance Effects of Color-Contrasting Shadows on Laparoscopic Surgery
Authors: Shimotsu Ryan , Cao Caroline G.L.
Published: January 2012

The viewing limitations inherent in laparoscopic surgery, severely limit depth perception compared to open surgery, sometimes leading to internal trauma caused by the laparoscopic instruments. Recently, the effects of shadows in laparoscopy have been studied and have shown promising results. Previous studies have found that the addition of shadows can improve performance in tasks under laparoscopic condition. Aiming to further improve depth perception in laparoscopic surgery, this study tested the effect of color-contrasting shadows on performance in a depth perception-dependent laparoscopic task. It was hypothesized that the added contrast of colored shadows should make them easier to see on the dark red backgrounds found in the body, thus improving performance. Twenty-four novice participants were included in the study, which compared performance under no shadows, black shadows, and colored shadows on two differently colored backgrounds. In all conditions, the task was performed on an oscillating platform. Results from this study showed that the presence both the colored shadows and the black shadows improved performance compared to no shadows, but the colored shadows did not provide a significant advantage over black shadows.
An Empirical Investigation of Surgical Flow Disruptions and their Relationship to Surgical Errors
Authors: Wiegmann Douglas A. , ElBardissi Andrew W. , Dearani Joseph A. , Sundt Thoralf M.
Published: January 2012

Surgical flow disruptions can significantly increase the probability of surgical errors. However, little is known about the frequency and nature of surgical flow disruptions, making the development of evidence-based interventions extremely difficult. The goal of this project was to prospectively study surgical errors and their relationship to surgical flow disruptions within the context of cardiac surgery. A trained observer recorded surgical errors and flow disruptions during 31 cardiac operations over a three-week period. Flow disruptions were then reviewed and analyzed by an interdisciplinary team of surgical and human factors experts. Results revealed that flow disruptions consisted of teamwork/communication failures, equipment and technology problems, extraneous interruptions, training-related distractions, and resource accessibility issues. Errors increased significantly with increases in flow disruptions. Teamwork/communication failures were the strongest predictor of surgical errors. These findings provide preliminary data for developing evidenced-based error management and patient safety programs within cardiac surgery.
Task Coordination and Group Foraging in Healthcare Delivery Teams
Authors: Garrett Sandra K. , Caldwell Barrett S.
Published: January 2012

In healthcare, the team of medical providers must cooperatively seek the information and physical resources needed in order to be able to attend to patients in a timely and effective manner. Foraging theory is one field that may help describe the strategies used to acquire resources; however, the concept and definitions of foraging must be expanded to appropriately describe the team coordination activities in a high-risk, time-limited, event-driven environment. The issues of resource handoffs and the coordination of multiple task demands with shifts between tasks become crucial to the overall performance of the healthcare delivery system. Task interleaving and parallel work load issues are being investigated to distinguish these actions from the issue of workload interruptions emphasized in previous research.
Fixation and Attention Allocation in Anesthesiology Crisis Management: An Abstraction Hierarchy Perspective
Authors: Hall T. Jason , Rudolph Jenny W. , Cao Caroline G.L.
Published: January 2012

The abstraction hierarchy analysis tool developed by Vicente and Rasmussen (1992) for Ecological Interface Design (EID) provides an in depth understanding of work domain constraints and information requirements. EID and work domain analysis (WDA) have been successfully applied in several fields. However, application in the medical domain has proven to be much more difficult. This study examines the relationships between three components within the OR: the surgical team, medical equipment, and the patient. It is hypothesized that crisis management failure in the OR is due to attentional mis-allocation and can be undone by re-directing team members' attention to the appropriate level of information structure. We propose a novel structure, based on existing work domain models for the operating room, to analyze the behavior of OR teams and map their attention allocation within the abstraction hierarchy to explain fixation during medical problem solving and crisis management.
Doctor-Patient Communication: Guidelines for Improvements
Authors: Hickman Jamye M. , Caine Kelly E. , Stronge Aideen J. , Pak Richard , Rogers Wendy A. , Fisk Arthur D.
Published: January 2012

Effective communication between patients and their healthcare providers is essential to positive health outcomes. Older adults may be at a disadvantage during communication exchanges due to age-related sensory declines and cognitive changes. Understanding the role of these age-related changes may lead to interventions that will ameliorate the disadvantages older adults face in the health communication process. Twenty-four older adults were interviewed to obtain an understanding of the difficulties older adults face during health communication. The findings suggest that older adults do have health communication problems. They are, however, able to generate strategies to solve these problems when problems are presented in hypothetical scenarios. Based on the findings, a brochure was developed to provide strategies and guidelines to help anticipate and resolve health communication problems.
Medication Adherence: Many Conditions, a Common Problem
Authors: Klein Devorah E. , Wustrack Gretchen , Schwartz Amy
Published: January 2012

The problem of adherence — why people fail to follow therapies intended to improve their health — has long bedeviled researchers in medicine, public health, nursing, pharmacology, psychology, and beyond. Most studies have focused on solving problems surrounding a specific condition (such as diabetes) or behavior (such as smoking cessation). This proposal presents a generalized, cross-condition model — the Adherence Loop model — that describes the role of beliefs, knowledge, and actions for designing better adherence programs. The model is based on studies from 4 diverse conditions: multiple sclerosis (MS), weight loss, osteoporosis, and erectile dysfunction (ED). The model suggests ways to support the design process and create programs, tools, and environments to promote adherence by better understanding patients' journeys and mental models of their conditions.
Eye Tracking Study on the Impact of the Manufacturer's Logo and Multilingual Description on Drug Selection Performance
Authors: Bojko Agnieszka , Buffardi Kevin , Lew Gavin , Israelski Edmond
Published: January 2012

The object of the study was a proposed standardized format for Abbott prescription drug labels as it would be applied to domestic and international cartons. We focused on two label elements which were not investigated in our previous study (Bojko et al., 2005) — an additional logo and multilingual description of the drug carton contents, and their potential effect on drug selection performance. Twenty-two pharmacy practitioners completed a series of tasks that involved locating a particular drug among several others. Eye movement measures (fixation count, mean fixation duration, and pupil diameter) and conventional performance metrics (error rate and time on task) were collected. The results suggested that neither the Abbott “a” nor the additional languages affected participants' accuracy, search and information processing efficiency, or mental workload. We discuss additional factors for consideration in a follow-up study to further investigate the effect of multilingual descriptions on user performance.
A Distributed Cognition Approach to Understanding Information Transfer in Mission Critical Domains
Authors: Gurses Ayse P. , Xiao Yan , Gorman Paul , Hazlehurst Brian , Bochicchio Grant , Vaidya Vinay , Hu Peter
Published: January 2012

We developed a conceptual framework that describes how information transfer occurs in mission critical domains using a distributed cognition approach. According to this framework, information tools and the physical workspace comprise an “information arena”, which plays a crucial role in information transfer. Information tools and the information arena support joint work and may improve efficiency and reliability by providing visual cues to collaborators, by getting everyone on the same page, by helping collaborators focus on critical information, by facilitating attention management under time pressure, and by providing an evanescent (transient) communication space. We illustrate the concepts in this framework using an example from multidisciplinary rounds, an information transfer mechanism common in the intensive care unit, a mission critical domain. The framework can be used as a guide to further understanding of information transfer in mission critical domains and to develop information tools that facilitate and enhance discourse.
Exploring the Determinants of the Provision of Quality Nursing Care
Authors: Escoto Kamisha Hamilton , Karsh Ben-Tzion
Published: January 2012

The purpose of this paper is to present partial results of a model examining the impact of psychosocial work factors on nurses' perceptions of the quality of patient care they are able to provide. Psychosocial work factor variables characterizing the work environment were selected as predictors in the model. The independent variables were job demands, role conflict, task control, resource control, social support, and supervisory support. The dependent variable was a developed measure of perceived quality of care, with items assessing the technical and interpersonal aspects of providing quality care. Using a cross-sectional survey design, data was collected from 120 at a pediatric academic hospital. Results indicate that social support provides a key contribution to nurses' perceptions of quality of care.
Experimental Evaluation of a Behavioural Marker System for Surgeons' Non-Technical Skills (NOTSS)
Authors: Flin R. , Yule S. , Paterson-Brown S. , Maran N. , Rowley D. , Youngson G.
Published: January 2012

Non-technical skills provide a critical underpinning for good surgical practice, but they must be trained and assessed according to properly developed skills frameworks and validated measurement tools. The NOTSS (Non-Technical Skills for Surgeons) skills taxonomy was developed from cognitive task analysis with subject matter experts and has been reported previously. It comprises five categories (situation awareness, decision making, task management, communication and teamwork, and leadership) divided into fourteen elements. The aim of the present study was to evaluate this as a behavioural rating system. An evaluation was conducted with 44 consultant (attending) surgeons who were trained to use the prototype NOTSS system and then rated surgeons' behaviours in six videos of simulated surgical scenarios. Evaluation results indicate that the system is complete, the skills are observable, and can be rated with approaching acceptable levels of agreement. Responses regarding initial usability were positive.
Improving Occupant Characteristics in Performance-Based Evacuation Modeling
Authors: Muhdi Rani , Davis Jerry , Blackburn Troy
Published: January 2012

Over the past three decades, computer models have been developed to study building evacuation. Regardless of the complexity of these models, they all account for human characteristics such as physical movement represented by walking speeds. The current study expands previous research by introducing other human performance behaviors, which include maximum walking speed, and normal and maximum crawling speeds. Twenty-six college students participated in the study. Results indicate significant differences between normal walking speed and each of maximum walking speed, normal and maximum crawling speeds. The study also normalizes the results to walking. In addition, the study suggests that other human performance measures such as fatigue and physical exertion should be accounted for in future evacuation models.
Development and Evaluation of Ergonomic Interventions for Bucket Handling on Farms
Authors: Tang Steven C. , Fathallah Fadi A. , Waters Thomas R.
Published: January 2012

Recent studies have shown that many of the activities children and adolescents perform on farms are associated with increased LBD risks, particularly, the handling of water and feed buckets. Hence, the purpose of this study is to introduce and evaluate two interventions, Ergo Bucket Carrier (EBC) and Easy Lift (EL), for youths (and adults) to handle water/feed bucket on farms. Nine subjects (six males and three females) consented to participate in this study. To assess the risk of LBD, the participants were instrumented with a three-dimensional spinal electrogoniometer while handling water buckets using three handling methods. The results showed that the two interventions can effectively and significantly decrease the magnitudes of the overall LBD risk in many of the tasks evaluated. Particularly, EBC effectively reduce the LBD risks for carrying and dumping tasks and so does EL for lifting tasks. Results of the subjective response were consistent with the objective evaluations. This study demonstrated the potential for ergonomic interventions in reducing LBD risks during the common farming and industrial task of bucket handling.
A Randomized Controlled Trial Evaluating the Effect of Two Task Chair Designs on Shoulder and Neck Pain among Sewing Operators
Authors: Rempel David M. , Wang Pin-Chieh , Janowitz Ira , Harrison Robert J. , Yu Fei , Ritz Beate R.
Published: January 2012

This 4 month randomized controlled trail evaluated the effect of chair design on neck/shoulder pain among sewing machine operators. 277 sewing machine operators with neck/shoulder pain were assigned to receive (1) miscellaneous items (control group), (2) a chair with a flat seat pan plus miscellaneous items, or (3) a chair with a curved seat pan plus miscellaneous items. Participants who received the flat seat chair experienced a decline in pain of 0.14 (95% CI: 0.07 to 0.22) points per month compared to those in the control group, while those who received the curved seat experienced a decline of 0.34 (95% CI: 0.28 to 0.41) points per month compared to those in the control group. These findings demonstrate that an adjustable height task chair with a curved seat pan can reduce neck and shoulder pain severity among sewing machine operators.
Gait Asymmetry: Factors Influencing Slip Severity and Tendency among Older adults
Authors: Kim Sukwon , Lockhart Thurmon
Published: January 2012

Research on the relationship between gait asymmetry and the likelihood of slips are not clear, especially, for older adults. The present study evaluated the gait asymmetry among older adults and, further, evaluated effects of gait asymmetry on the likelihood of slips. Eighteen older adults (65 and older) participated in the study. HCV, horizontal force, and RCOF measured at non-dominant leg during heel contact phase of gait cycle were significantly higher than those at dominant leg. The results indicated that the likelihood of slips could increase when transitioning the whole body center-of-mass with left leg contacted on the ground while right leg was in swing phase. The results indicated that gait asymmetry or limb dominance could contribute to increasing the likelihood of slips.
Gender Differences in the Relationship between Daily Computer Usage and Musculoskeletal Symptoms among Undergraduate Students
Authors: Chang Che-hsu (Joe)
Published: January 2012

We conducted a repeated measures pilot field study on 27 undergraduate students (14 males and 13 females) to investigate the relationship between daily computer usage time and musculoskeletal symptoms. For three one-week periods during a single semester, students reported symptoms (outcome) 3-5 times daily while computer usage time (exposure) was objectively measured by a usage monitor software installed onto participants' own computer. Generalized estimating equation (GEE) regression models tested the relationship between outcome and exposure. In males, each additional hour of daily computer usage was associated with an increased odds ratio of reporting symptoms to 1.18 (1.05–1.34). In females, the corresponding increased odd ratio for each additional hour of daily usage was 1.02 (0.96 to 1.08). The results also suggested a potential dose-response relationship between daily computer usage time and musculoskeletal symptoms; however, the significance of relationship was different between genders.
Musculoskeletal Stress on Miners Performing Roof Screening Operations
Authors: Kotowski Susan , Gallagher Sean , Davis Kermit , Baron Kelly , Compton Craig
Published: January 2012

Roof screen is often bolted to the mine ceiling to help control hazardous rock falls in coal mines. While the screen prevents rock fall injuries, its installation may expose the miner to musculoskeletal stress. The purpose of this study was to evaluate methods of handling roof screen. Subjects performed installation tasks under a normal and intervention condition while trunk kinematics and muscle activity data were collected. Trunk kinematics were not affected by the intervention but were significantly higher in the morning than in the afternoon. Muscle activity did not differ significantly with seam height but was significantly reduced by the intervention. Overall, this study showed that musculoskeletal stressors during screen installation were reduced by the proposed intervention.
The Impact of Work Scheduling on Injury Risk
Authors: Brogmus George E.
Published: January 2012

The way work is scheduled can have a significant impact on productivity and safety. Trying to determine a reliable relationship between scheduling details and this impact has not been easy. The relationship is a complex one because it is not simply a mater of how many hours a person is working, but also includes when the person is working (daytime, afternoon, night), how many “days” (shifts) in a row the person is working, and how frequently during the work day the person takes breaks from work. Recent research has pointed out that there are sufficient good-quality studies to model the impact of these factors on injury risk. The available research was reviewed and developed into a model that allows estimation of the relative risk based on type of shift (day, afternoon, night), number of consecutive shifts, hours per shift, and time between breaks. This paper describes the source research data, modeling procedures and cautions of interpreting and applying the modeling.
Interaction between Trunk and Wrist Kinetics and Kinematics during a Simulated Pruning Task
Authors: Kung John C. , Fathallah Fadi A.
Published: January 2012

Winegrape vine pruning require repetitive gripping and awkward body postures. The purpose of this study is to examine the effects of cutting height and forearm posture on trunk and wrist posture, force production, and muscle activities during simulated vine pruning. Ten healthy subjects (3 female and 7 male) participated in the study. Subjects cut dowels simulating shoots with pruning shears at 5 cutting heights tailored to subject anthropometry at three forearm postures. Trunk and wrist kinematics, force exertion, and forearm EMG were monitored. The results showed significant change in force exertion; and trunk and wrist kinematics in stature and knee cutting heights. The information from this study could assist in ergonomic trellis design, injury prevention, and manual labor work guidelines.
Impact to the Base of the Palm
Authors: Cochran David J. , Shinde Pramod , Ding Xuedong , Wiley Matt , Stentz Terry L.
Published: January 2012

This study exposed subjects to impacts to the base of the palm using a pendulum of different masses, possessing different energy levels and different velocities. Force sensing resistors were affixed to the thenar and hypothenar eminences of the hand. The subjects' perception of the severity of the impact, the total area of the force time graph, and the maximum acceleration of the force on the palm were measured and are reported on in this paper. Analyses of variance and stepwise regressions were used to determine the pertinent variables affecting the dependent measures. From the ANOVAs, Energy, Velocity, and to a lesser degree Mass affect the three dependent measures of impact measured. Gender only affected the psychophysical measure and then in conflicting ways. From the regression analyses, Energy appears to be the most important variable in affecting the physical and psychophysical results of an impact and larger skinfold thickness seems to ameliorate the severity of the impact.
Effects of Spatial Constraints on Trunk Kinematics during a Dependent Transfer on an Aircraft
Authors: Higginson Brian K. , Pavol Michael J.
Published: January 2012

A concern related to air travel by people with disabilities is the risk of low-back injuries while transferring the traveler to or from the aircraft seat. Potential contributing factors to this risk are the spatial constraints imposed by the aircraft's interior. This study investigated the effects of such constraints on the trunk angles, angular velocities, and load moment arm during a two-person dependent transfer between a wheelchair and an aircraft seat. Trunk kinematics were recorded as 33 pairs of subjects transferred a dummy to and from an aircraft seat under unconstrained and constrained conditions. The constraints primarily affected the front transferor, increasing peak trunk flexion, lateral bending, twisting, and load moment arm. Effects on the rear transferor were small and appeared to have offsetting effects on injury risk. The results suggest that the row spacing on an aircraft contributes to low-back injury risk during dependent transfers of travelers with disabilities.
Acceptance of Computer Technology: Understanding the User and the Organizational Characteristics
Authors: Park Sung , O'Brien Marita A. , Caine Kelly E. , Rogers Wendy A. , Fisk Arthur D. , Ittersum Koert Van , Capar Muge , Parsons Leonard J.
Published: January 2012

A systematic analysis of acceptance of computer technology was conducted to identify variables that would provide insight to understanding technology acceptance. This led to a development of a comprehensive qualitative model that captures the individual and the organizational user characteristics that influence the acceptance of computer technology. This model suggests that designers must be mindful of the role that sociological and organizational variables play in technology acceptance. Such factors go beyond basic usability issues in the design process. Attention to these variables may increase the acceptance and therefore the diffusion of new computer technologies.
Role of Human Factors Engineering in Improving Employment Outcomes among Cancer Survivors
Authors: Sesto Mary E.
Published: January 2012

What role will human factors engineers and return to work professionals play in addressing the needs of cancer survivors in return to work? The National Cancer Institute estimates that there are 10.1 million cancer survivors in the United States. of these, 3.8 million are working age adults (ages 20 to 64) (2005). Due to early detection and treatment improvements, the length of survival has increased. Unfortunately, survivors may experience short term and long term side effects (physical, psychosocial and cognitive changes, and fatigue) from treatment that result in functional limitations that may affect their work productivity or their ability to return or continue in the work place. Although the majority of human factors engineering/ergonomics and return to work research has focused on occupational injuries and illnesses, the application of this information to employment issues encountered by cancer survivors may be extremely beneficial.