bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Anthropometric Shape Analysis Strategy for Design of Personalwear
Authors: Yavatkar Amar
Published: July 2017

The diversity of morphologies may be a source of annoyance to the designer of personal equipment. For those involved in design problems, the user population seems to have considerable variability in the size and shape of body parts. However, traditionally available anthropometric data provides only the independent value for each measurement with no information on the shapes of the contours and curvatures. This type of data appears to be insufficient for the design of personal equipment such as shoes, helmets, or a guard for a specific body part. Therefore, interfacing any human body part and equipment should begin with the objective knowledge of the full range of body sizes and shapes. The size variability can be tackled by developing fitting schemes by covering segments of a multivariate normal population. The main difficulty is apprehending the anatomical shapes and their variation relative to three dimensional space. Further, for offering the proper fit, it becomes imperative that variability in such anatomical shapes be incorporated in the design.

This paper describes the shape analysis strategy which should be useful in approximating non-linear dimensions of human body part for design. The method is illustrated by selecting the curvatures along a foot outline. The curvatures are defined as a set of discrete points and then analyzed by statistical and numerical methods for arriving at an optimized shape. The shape differences and similarities within and between the two methods are examined graphically and discussed. Results show that the technique of integrating the fitting scheme and anatomical shape approximation describes the human body shapes in geometric terms with moderate accuracy.
Charts for Simplified Bivariate Anthropometric Design
Authors: Kreifeldt J. G. , Nah K.
Published: July 2017

Generalized workspace and clothing design problems often arise in which two anthropometric constraints must be considered simultaneously in order to accommodate some specific target percentage of the population. In the theoretical (and unlikely) instance in which the two variables are perfectly positively correlated, the problem is readily solved using univariate percentile information. However, in the more realistic case in which the two variables are less than perfectly positively correlated, bivariate percentile charts are required. These bivariate charts are rarely available but may be computer-generated from the univariate data and the correlation between the variables after assuming some appropriate bivariate distribution (usually Gaussian). However, such computer access is not always available especially when a quick estimate is needed.

This paper presents a simplified approach to bivariate design based on the workable assumption that the bivariate target percentage will be met by using the same (to be determined) univariate cutoff value for each variate. This cutoff value depends on the target percentage value and on the degree of correlation between the variables and the assumption that the data are adequately represented by a Gaussian bivariate distribution.

The method takes advantage of simple charts prepared expressly for this purpose and several of which are presented herein. The method also has utility in a number of practical and common problems as well as being suitable for student use.
Product Development Research for the 1990's
Authors: Sanders Elizabeth B.-N.
Published: July 2017

For products to be successful in the 1990s, they will need to simultaneously meet consumer/user needs along three perspectives: usefulness, usability, and desirability. A useful product is one that people need and will use. A usable product is one they can use or learn to use. A desirable product is one they want. The only way to ensure the development of products that are useful, usable and desirable is to incorporate user-centered research throughout the entire product development process.
Making Sure its Right: Three Phases of Ergonomics Research in the Design of a Pointing Device
Authors: Adams Edie , Kaneko Steven T. , Rutter Bryce
Published: July 2017

This paper demonstrates three phases of ergonomic research in the design of a mouse and discusses the value of a concurrent, interactive approach to ergonomics, industrial design and product development. Ergonomics worked in conjunction with industrial design, engineering and marketing to ensure that optimal comfort for the user was a continual focus throughout the product development process. Research phases included 1) the development of ergonomic criteria and the inclusion of ergonomics in the product definition, 2) the ergonomic review and user testing analysis of the design prototype and 3) the verification of ergonomic aspects of the design. The need for different types of ergonomic information at different phases in the product development process, and the value of maintaining an end-user focus throughout the interaction of ergonomics, industrial design and the whole of the product development team are discussed.
Preferred Settings in Chair Adjustments
Authors: Helander Martin G. , Little Steven E.
Published: July 2017

Thirty eight subjects participated in a study to evaluate preferred (comfortable) settings of adjustable chairs including seat height, seat pan angle and back rest angle. An instrumented hydraulic chair was used. The chair was set in one of eight possible extreme position, with each chair parameters at either a high or low value. Subjects then adjusted all three parameters. A full factorial experiment with 5 factors was performed: the three adjustability parameters set at either high or low, gender and replication. Three independent variables were used: preferred seat height, back rest angle and seat pan angle. For the three ANOVA's and across two experiments, 33 statistically significant results were obtained. The initial setting of a parameter (high or low) consistently produced a significant effect in the choice of the preferred setting for the same parameter. The findings imply that there is a range of acceptable settings: for seat height about 1 in. and for the back support angle and seat back angle about 4 degrees.
Software Interface Evaluation: Modeling of Human Error
Authors: Wright S. J. , Packebush S. J. , Mitta D. A.
Published: July 2017

The purpose of this study was to use a human error model to evaluate a commercially available Macintosh-based graphics application based upon the frequencies and types of mistakes occurring during users' performance of designated tasks. The occurrence of high frequencies of knowledge-based and rule-based mistakes during the learning of an interface element would indicate that the element requires evaluation and possible redesign.

This study involved five participants, all of whom were students at Texas A&M University. The participants were experienced Macintosh users with no experience using Macintosh graphics software. The graphics environment of interest was MacDraw II® 1.0 Version 2 (Schutten, Goldsmith, Kaptanoglu, and Spiegel, 1988). Ten drawings created with the program were used to examine participants' cognitive levels and types of errors made throughout the process of familiarizing themselves with this program. The first drawing was created to exemplify simple figures created with the graphics tools in the program to illustrate shading. The second through tenth drawings incorporated these figures in several arrangements. All drawings incorporated eight tools (or tasks), and each tool was used only once in each drawing. The results indicated significant differences in frequencies of error types, frequencies of errors between tasks and frequencies of errors between trials. There were also interactions between trial and error, and task and error.
Integrating Industrial Projects in Ergonomics Courses
Authors: Deivanayagam S.
Published: July 2017

Ergonomics is a design oriented discipline. Therefore it becomes necessary for the students in any ergonomics course to experience design work as a part of the academic work. It is suggested that this design experience be a real world project derived from an industry rather than a “class-room” exercise. This paper addresses the important aspects of developing the industrial projects and successfully incorporating them in the academic work so that the students derive the full benefit from such experiences.
Integration of Human Factors, Job Design, and Writing into One Course
Authors: Freivalds Andris , Goldberg Joseph H.
Published: July 2017

There are pressing needs to enhance the quality of undergraduate engineering instruction, including human factors engineering. Specific curricular and philosophical issues include: 1) integration of work measurement and human factors topics, 2) applications driven laboratories, 3) open-ended design problems, and 4) reinforcement of technical writing skills. In summary, the end goals of this laboratory development are innovative job design and evaluation workstations, which can provide students with real-world, open-ended problems.

Two different types of workstations have been implemented: a workstation appropriate for typical blue-collar assembly work and a workstation appropriate for white-collar computer driven work. The white-collar workstation simulates a modern, computer-driven office job, with such factors as speed, accuracy, noise, illumination, etc. influencing productivity. The blue-collar workstation is centered on a typical carburetor assembly found in the automotive industry. The large number of fairly intricate parts, the highly repetitive and rapid assembly process, and the need for power driven tools all are thought to be contributing factors to the high incidence of cumulative trauma disorders in U.S. industry.
Plant Layout Ergonomics: Impact of Problem and Solver Features on Layout Quality
Authors: Clough Jill M. , Buck James R.
Published: July 2017

A study of people solving facility layout problems was made to estimate the effects of problem features on the quality of solutions obtained by novice and experienced subjects. An empirical experiment was conducted. Three features of these problems which were systematically varied in this study were: 1. Problem size, 2. Fraction of strong inter-departmental relationships, and 3. Fraction of departments requiring a non-standard amount of floor space. Both quantitative and subjective layout evaluations were made. It was found that layout quality was not affected by feature 3 for any values of the other features, using either evaluation method, and with either novice or experienced subjects. However, feature 2 proved to be significant for all experimental conditions, both evaluation methods, and with both subject groups. Feature 1 was a significant feature in some situations, but was not significant in others. Some differences in problem solving approaches were observed. There was a significant relationship between the design of higher quality layouts by experienced subjects and the use of a Relationship Diagram. Reducing the problem size and/or percentage of strong inter-departmental relationships in a problem may make a higher quality layout easier to achieve.
Predicting Satisfaction with the Office Environment by Measuring Constraints to Worker Activities
Authors: Lantrip David B.
Published: July 2017

Previous research has shown that people often feel crowded when the environment gets in their way. This suggests that suitable measures of environmental constraint may be predictive of perceived crowding and environmental satisfaction. This study tests the hypothesis that environments that constrain the activities of their inhabitants less will be perceived as having greater quality and their inhabitants will be more satisfied with them. An office environment is used as a test case.

How the physical environment constrains worker movements is assessed with several new quantitative measures. These measures vary depending on the difference between the size and shape of space that workers require for their activities and the space that is available. The spatial requirements of office activities were estimated from videotaped records of the routine activities of workers. A computer program developed for this study computed values for the measures of constraint for each of 194 workstations. These estimates of environmental constraint were then used to explain some of the variance observed in worker attitudes about their environment.

The findings support the study hypothesis. Furthermore, the measures and methods developed for this study suggest a new approach to reduce crowding in our built environments and improve inhabitant environmental satisfaction.
The High Mounted Brake Lamp: A Cause without a Theory
Authors: Mortimer Rudolf G.
Published: July 2017

Studies are described that formed the basis for the Federal high mounted brake light standard and some that have been done since. One purpose of this paper is to show how some details of the new Standard are hard to derive based on the underlying research. In addition, there was no adequate theory of driver performance upon which the standard was based. Although experimental field studies forecast reductions in rear-end crashes of about 50%, analyses of actual reductions in rear-end crashes since the standard took effect estimated them to be 22% to 3.5%.
Evaluation of Pushbutton Arrangements in Automobiles
Authors: Zwahlen Helmut T.
Published: July 2017

The need for more fingertip operated pushbuttons on automobile dashboards, consoles and steering wheels has increased over recent years with the emergence of new, sophisticated entertainment systems, driver aids, and communication devices. The space to place these controls within a driver's reach envelope has remained fairly constant, or has actually shrunk due to the down sizing of cars and the addition of crash protection devices. For this reason designers are forced to design smaller pushbuttons and to place these pushbuttons closer together in order to fit them into the allotted space along with the accompanying displays. With designers reducing the pushbutton sizes and putting them closer and closer together, the driver is forced to devote more time, more and/or longer foveal eye fixations, and more concentration to push the correct pushbutton. This could impose safety problems if too much time and concentration are diverted from the driving task. An exploratory study was conducted in the field, during daytime under fairly realistic conditions to examine the push location distributions when required to push exactly at a certain coordinate point in a car as a function of coordinate point location, car speed, driving task and road surface condition. This study resulted in a database of 5400 coordinate points of push locations. A model was developed to allow a designer to determine the size and spacing of round, square and rectangular pushbuttons based on a desired probability level of pushing the correct button. This model also takes into consideration the desired probability level of pushing any adjacent incorrect buttons. A computer program was developed based on the model and the experimentally collected data. The designer is required to enter information about the pushbutton shape, size, in car location, speed, road surface condition, driving task and the population percentile value of the fingertip width. The model uses a fingertip width concept which requires the user to input the distance expressed as a percentage of the fingertip width by which the fingertip center lies outside the button border and will still result in the activation of the pushbutton. The software then outputs the probabilities of pushing the correct, any adjacent incorrect, and none of the buttons. Correctly designed pushbutton arrangements (adequate size and spacing) should minimize activation time, foveal eye fixations, fixation times and errors resulting in fewer repeated pushes, which in turn, should improve safety while driving and operating pushbuttons in the modern automobile.
Effect of Warnings in Advertising on Adolescents' Perceptions of Risk for Alcohol Consumption
Authors: Bohannon N. Kimberly , Young Stephen L.
Published: July 2017

The present study examined the effect of warning labels in alcohol advertising on the perception of risk for alcohol consumption. Under incidental conditions, subjects from two age groups, young (M = 13.6 years) and older (M = 23.3 years), examined a collection of magazine ads. Three of the ads in the booklet were for alcoholic beverages and these were either accompanied by a warning or the warning was absent. When present, the warnings were manipulated by the orthogonal combination of text voice (2nd vs. 3rd person) and pictorial (presence vs. absence) in a between-subjects design. A fifth condition served as the no-warning control. After examining the magazine ads, subjects answered a questionnaire which assessed several dimensions related to the ads: number and type of ads, attractiveness of the ads, and number and type of warnings in the ads. Examination of the questions dealing with the risk of alcohol consumption indicated that adolescents rated their own risk lower than the risk to adolescents in general, but that this bias in risk ratings was not evident when warnings were present. There were also several other age and gender effects. While no individual warning manipulation was found to be consistently superior to another, the results suggest that warnings can be effective in producing proper estimations of risk in different age populations.
Effect of Labels on Risk Perceptions of Consumer Products
Authors: Leonard S. David , Hill G. William
Published: July 2017

Previous studies have shown many individuals do not know the meanings of terms often used as stand-alone descriptions of hazards. Leonard and Digby (1992) found subjects rated the danger associated with different products very differently despite being given the same hazard description. One possibility for the differences in ratings is that substances are experienced in very different quantities. While gasoline is usually seen in multigallon amounts, fingernail polish remover is seen in quantities of a few fluid ounces. An alternative explanation is that people's experiences (direct or vicarious) with the substances have given them different concepts of the characteristics of the substances. This study examined these alternatives by asking 88 subjects to rate the risk of a dangerous event occurring with the same specific quantity of each substance. Mean ratings over all subgroups indicated that they perceived less risk from certain substances than from others, although the substances are equally dangerous. Evidence for an experiential component of risk assessment was provided by differences between older and younger subjects on specific items. The importance of presenting information about the consequences of hazards in warnings was discussed.
Toward a General Theory of Risk Perception
Authors: Schacherer Christopher William
Published: July 2017

Several risk perception studies employing univariate techniques have found very strong predictors of risk perceptions, but these results are of limited use in describing the cognitive process that results in perception of risk. Also, although a few multivariate investigations have been conducted, the validity of the obtained results are similarly limited due to concern over deriving easily interpretable solutions. The present study, therefore, attempts to derive a more valid model of the risk perception process through confirmatory factor analysis based on previously reported findings.
Industrial Robot Use: Survey Results and Hazard Analysis
Authors: Aghazadeh Fereydoun , Hirschfeld Robert , Chapleski Robert
Published: July 2017

Robotic workcells have proliferated in recent years but safety guidance in the area of safety sensing devices has not kept pace. Research investigating current robot use was conducted through safety survey questionnaires returned from 29 robot using corporations across the nation. The research goal was to identify the hazards which workers are exposed to while working near robots. Only 5% of robots were found to have redundant sensing and 40% could not be physically enclosed in barrier perimeters. In addition, personnel were found to enter a robot's work area for 38% of an 8 hour day. Based upon the survey results, a hazard analysis was created to assist in the evaluation of robot workstation safety. The hazard analysis recommends that safety sensors should be integrated in a layered protection system with an external perimeter, an internal workzone area, and a software path monitoring system.
Psychophysical and Physical Techniques for Measuring the Attenuation of Hearing Protectors in the Field
Authors: Mauney Daniel W.
Published: July 2017

A field-implementable measure is needed to estimate the attenuation workers achieve with their hearing protectors in the field. Manufacturer-supplied values overestimate in-field attenuation and reliance on these values could result in greater noise exposure, thus contributing to hearing loss. Alternative measures for assessing a hearing protector's effectiveness were evaluated through comparison to the standardized real-ear attenuation at threshold (1/3-REAT) method (ANSI S3.19-1974). These measures, termed microphone in real ear (MIRE), used miniature microphones underneath and outside of the hearing protector to physically measure the attenuation of the protector using both insertion loss (IL-MIRE) and noise reduction (NR-MIRE) techniques. Results indicate that the MIRE measures differ significantly from the 1/3-REAT method (a psychophysical technique) for attenuation collapsed across protectors, with absolute differences as great as 6.6 dB and the direction of the difference changing due to frequency. At 125 Hz, the MIRE metrics yielded lower attenuation, while from 500 to 8000 Hz, the 1/3-REAT method generally yielded lower attenuation. These differences may be due in part to the occlusion effect and the bone conduction of sound. The size and consistency of these differences across HPDs suggest that these measures hold promise for providing quick and relatively accurate estimations of an HPD's attenuation in the field.
A Questionnaire Study of Accidents in Advanced Manufacturing Systems
Authors: Järvinen Jari , Karwowski Waldemar
Published: July 2017

Manufacturing automation has eliminated many traditional risks of injury, but new types of risks have appeared. In the United States only a limited amount of data is available on automated manufacturing-related accidents, or these data cannot be distinguished from general accident data. The purpose of this study was to collect data on accidents related to advanced manufacturing systems (CIMS). A questionnaire requesting information on one serious computer-integrated accident that occurred in the respondent's plant was used to collect the data. The presented results are based on the analysis of 85 cases. The cases included six fatal injuries, as well as several severe injuries that led to amputation. The results confirm the need to pay more attention to prevention of production disturbances in CIMS, especially in the case of material handling equipment. A relatively large amount of cases involving defeated safety devices calls for the design of intelligent safety systems that protect the human operator, but do not interfere with the work to be done, even during the disturbance situations.
A User-Centered Approach to the Design of a Naval Tactical Workstation Interface
Authors: Heasly Christopher C. , Dutra Lisa A. , Kirkpatrick Mark , Seamster Thomas L. , Lyons Robert A.
Published: July 2017

The 21st century Navy combatant ship will experience exponential increases in shipboard information to be processed, disseminated and integrated. High Definition System (HDS) technology will provide for the convergence of text, graphics, digital video, imagery, and complex computing to allow for a new range of advanced capabilities that exceed those of currently available workstations. These capabilities could result in unmanageable and overwhelming cognitive workloads for Navy tactical operators in CIC (Combat Information Center). For this reason, a prototype user interface was designed using future combat system requirements, proposed HDS capabilities, and human-computer interface design standards and principles. Usability testing of the protoype user interface was conducted as part of an effort to identify integrated information management technologies which reduce operator workload, increase human performance, and improve combat system effectiveness.

This demonstration will focus on explanation and demonstration of future concepts envisioned for the AEGIS operational environment; organization and functionality of the menu structures and window contents; the usability testing methods utilized; results from usability testing; and plans for utilization of the prototype shell in other operational environments.
New Directions in Task Analysis
Authors: Wier Alan P.
Published: July 2017

A demonstration of a new graphic notation system which expands the existing symbol set associated with operational sequence diagrams. The notation system is being developed as part of a computer-aided instructional program created for undergraduate students involved in human factor studies. The basic premise of the notation system is to enhance the practitioners understanding of human-machine processes during task analysis and operational sequence diagramming. The author can be contacted at the Department of Industrial Design, 380 Hopkins Hall, The Ohio State University, Columbus, Ohio. Telephone: 614 292-7311; email address, awier@magnus.acs.ohio-state.edu
Contaminant Analysis Automation Demonstration Proposal
Authors: Dodson Mike G. , Schur Anne , Heubach Janet G.
Published: July 2017

The nation-wide and global need for environmental restoration and waste remediation (ER & WR) presents significant challenges to the analytical chemistry laboratory. The expansion of ER & WR programs forces an increase in the volume of samples processed and the demand for analysis data. To handle this expanding volume, productivity must be increased. However, the need for significantly increased productivity faces a contaminant analysis process which is costly in time, labor, equipment, and safety protection. Laboratory automation offers a cost effective approach to meeting current and future contaminant analytical laboratory needs.

The proposed demonstration will present a proof-of-concept automated laboratory conducting varied sample preparations. This automated process also highlights a graphical user interface that provides supervisory control and monitoring of the automated process. The demonstration provides affirming answers to the following questions about laboratory automation:

• Can preparation of contaminants be successfully automated? • Can a full-scale working proof-of-concept automated laboratory be developed that is capable of preparing contaminant and hazardous chemical samples? • Can the automated processes be seamlessly integrated and controlled? • Can the automated laboratory be customized through really convertible design? • Can automated sample preparation concepts be extended to the other phases of the sample analysis process?

To fully reap the benefits of automation, four human factors areas should be studied and the outputs used to increase the efficiency of laboratory automation. These areas include: 1) laboratory configuration, 2) procedures, 3) receptacles and fixtures, and 4) human-computer interface for the full automated system and complex laboratory information management systems.
A Tool for Automatically Generating Transcripts of Human-Computer Interaction
Authors: Hicinbothom James H. , Zachary Wayne W.
Published: July 2017

Recording transcripts of human-computer interaction can be a very time-consuming activity. This demonstration presents a new technology to automatically capture such transcripts in Open Systems environments (e.g., from graphical user interfaces running on the X Window System). This technology forms an infrastructure for performing distributed usability testing and human-computer interaction research, by providing integrated data capture, storage, browsing, retrieval, and export capabilities. It may lead to evaluation cost reductions throughout the software development life cycle.
Automation and Supervisory Control: A Perspective on Human Performance, Training, and Performance Aiding
Authors: Lockhart John M. , Strub Michael H. , Hawley John K. , Tapia Lourdes A.
Published: July 2017

This paper is based on results from an on-going effort sponsored by the US Army Research Institute (ARI) concerned with human performance and training issues in automated, near-real-time air defense command and control systems. Air defense command and control is the specific applications context, but the paper's implications extend to many contemporary process control settings. Topics that are addressed in the paper include: (1) human performance problems associated with automation, (2) a new look at human performance requirements in near-real-time process control, (3) and training and job performance support requirements for supervisory controllers. The “new look” portion describes a reasonable and evolving concept for human participation in automated processing, designated Rule-Based Supervisory Control. The paper is intended to introduce these topics to concept developers, system designers, and trainers dealing with automated process control technology.
An Examination of Two Ergonomically Designed Performance Aids
Authors: Barnes Mark E.
Published: July 2017

The purpose of the present study was to examine the effects of providing two simple tactical aids designed to bolster cognitive ability while problem-solving. After receiving computer-based instruction, subjects used either an orientation aid, a short-term memory aid, both aids, or no aids to perform a computer-based electronic problem-solving task. A major goal was to determine whether the effect of each aid on performance conformed to either a compensatory model or a training model. Results were mixed. That is, some evidence supported the compensatory interpretation, while other evidence supported the training model interpretation. Specifically, an interaction between short-term memory scores and use of the short-term memory aid showed that the aid helped low scoring subjects solve problems quicker when they used the aid more. However, most of the evidence suggested that, in terms of the time needed to solve problems, the effects of both aids were characteristic of a training model.
Adaptation to Stress in Team Decision-Making and Coordination
Authors: Serfaty Daniel , Entin Elliot E. , Volpe Catherine
Published: July 2017

Teams with records of superior performance have one common critical characteristic: they are extremely adaptive to varying task demands. These teams were observed to switch between several different coordination strategies and organizational structures, with different lines of authority, communication patterns, and task responsibilities, as they move between normal operations and high-tempo or emergency situations. Two questions are central to the issue: What are the effects of external stressors on team performance, and what are the mechanisms by which teams of decision-makers cope with stress? Our main hypothesis is that team coordination strategies evolve from explicit coordination under low workload conditions to implicit coordination as workload increases. To illustrate these ideas, this paper presents findings from an experimental study on the effects of stress on the performance of command teams. The computer-based experimental task simulates operations in a naval environment in which a hierarchical team of four decision-makers must coordinate complex and ambiguous information to make identifications on air targets. Three task-related stressors–time-pressure, uncertainty, and ambiguity-, and one information-structural variable were manipulated in a within-subject, full-factorial design. Results show some complex patterns of the way the different stressors combine to generate stress and affect the team decision and coordination strategies. Implicit coordination patterns, anticipatory behavior, and redirection of the team communication strategy are evident under conditions of increased time-pressure. Discrepancy between the subordinates' and the team leader's mental model of the costs of errors generates non-trivial patterns of error-making in the teams. The team leader's periodic update had a stabilizing effect on the team communication strategy. Different implementations of team training interventions to enhance mutual anticipation, prevent inadequate adaptation to stress, and foster implicit coordination in command teams are proposed.
Effects of Workload on Communication Processes in Decision Making Teams: An Empirical Study with Implications for Training
Authors: Urban Julie M. , Bowers Clint A. , Monday Susan D. , Morgan Ben B.
Published: July 2017

Recent empirical studies of decision making in teams demonstrate that team structure and workload significantly influence team performance. In many operational environments, however, it is impossible to change these factors, even as a mechanism for enhancing team performance. Therefore, it is necessary to create training interventions that will optimize performance within existing team structures and workload levels. Several studies suggest that team processes are the most likely target for this type of intervention. The current investigation sought to develop a laboratory analogue of a common team structure (i.e., the “product team”) and to assess the effects of high and low workload on team performance processes within this structure. The results suggest that different communication behaviors facilitate effective performance under low and high workload.
The Role of Planning in Coordinated Team Decision Making: Implications for Training
Authors: Stout Rene'e , Salas Eduardo
Published: July 2017

Critical decisions are made every day by teams of individuals who must coordinate their activities to achieve effectiveness. Recently, researchers have suggested that shared mental models among team members may help them to make successful decisions. Several avenues for training shared mental models in teams exist, one of which is training in planning behaviors. The relationship between team planning, team shared mental models, and coordinated team decision making and performance is explored.
Analysis of Skill on a Flight Simulator: Implications for Training
Authors: Goettl Barry P.
Published: July 2017

A backward transfer technique was used to identify component skills related to performance on a PC based flight simulator. Forty subjects were first trained on the simulator for eight hours and were then tested on several component skills tasks (backward transfer). A second group of 40 subjects was first given the component skills tasks and then was trained on the simulator task (forward transfer). Both groups were then divided into high- and low-ability groups based on whole-task performance and were compared on the component tasks. Backward transfer subjects showing proficiency on the simulator also showed proficiency on tasks related to pitch, altitude, and heading control, and tasks related to spatial orientation skills. Analysis of the forward transfer group suggested that many of the ability differences observed after whole-task training may have existed prior to whole-task training. Furthermore, some ability differences obtained for the forward transfer group were not obtained in the backward transfer group suggesting that these skills may be acquired through whole-task training. The implications of these results are discussed in the context of part-task training, adaptive training, and gender differences.
Impact of Task Difficulty on the Acquisition of Aircrew Coordination Skills
Authors: Braun Curt C. , Bowers Clint A. , Holmes Barbara E. , Salas Eduardo
Published: July 2017

The skills approach to aircrew coordination focuses on the training of specific coordination behavior. While this approach has shown promise, careful consideration must be given to the manner in which these skills are trained. A growing body of literature suggests that training workload impacts the acquisition of skills. The present study examined the effectiveness of two training paradigms on the development of aircrew coordination. One regimen of training was characterized by consistent levels of task difficulty over a series of training sessions. The other regimen involved incrementally increasing task difficulty over training sessions.

Twenty IFR rated pilots comprised 10 two-person crews. One-half of the crews (control group) completed nine training flights that were of consistent task difficulty. The remaining half completed nine training flights that increased incrementally in task difficulty: three low, three moderate, and three high task difficulty flights. Following the nine training flights, all crew completed five novel aerial reconnaissance flights during which they were instructed to map buildings within a specified area. Measures of subjective workload, flight performance, and secondary task performance were taken for all flights. An additional measure of building identification was also taken for the five reconnaissance-type flights.

Measures of subjective workload validated the increasing workload associated with the experimental training regimen. Analysis of the workload data taken during novel task flights failed to reveal differences between training groups. Moreover, there were no significant differences in flight performance between groups. Measures of building identification, a task heavily dependent on crew coordination, revealed significant differences between groups. Experimental crews identified significantly more buildings than their control counterparts for two of the five flights. Implications for aircrew coordination training are discussed.
The Need for the Consideration of an Order of Pastoral Care: A Proposal with Responses
Authors: Gebhart James E.
Published: July 2017

The author notes that historically the pastoral care community was seen as a product of the pastoral care organizations. Those pastoral care organizations were actually dynamic products of the emerging pastoral community. Unfortunately, this community was not nurtured beyond the gathering of certified supervisors, counselors, and chaplains. The author contends that the establishment of the College of Pastoral Supervision and Psychotherapy (CPSP) was an attempt to correct this oversight. Thus, he suggests, it is compelling to consider the Pastoral Care Chapter as a microcosom of a possible Order of Pastoral Care. Responses to this suggestion by pastoral care colleagues accompanies the article.
Fuzzy cognitive maps of public support for insurgency and terrorism
Authors: Osoba Osonde A , Kosko Bart
Published: July 2017

Feedback fuzzy cognitive maps (FCMs) can model the complex structure of public support for insurgency and terrorism (PSOT). FCMs are fuzzy causal signed digraphs that model degrees of causality in interwoven webs of feedback causality and policy variables. Their nonlinear dynamics permit forward-chaining inference from input causes and policy options to output effects. We show how a concept node causally affects downstream nodes through a weighted product of the intervening causal edge strengths. FCMs allow users to add detailed dynamics and feedback links directly to the causal model. Users can also fuse or combine FCMs from multiple experts by weighting and adding the underlying FCM fuzzy edge matrices. The combined FCM tends to better represent domain knowledge as the expert sample size increases if the expert sample approximates a random sample. Statistical or machine-learning algorithms can use numerical sample data to learn and tune a FCM’s causal edges. A differential Hebbian learning law can approximate a PSOT FCM’s directed edges of partial causality using time-series training data. The PSOT FCM adapts to the computational factor-tree PSOT model that Davis and OMahony based on prior social science research and case studies. Simulation experiments compare the PSOT models with the adapted FCM models.
Toward computational net assessment
Authors: Frank Aaron B
Published: July 2017

a. In 1973, the Department of Defense (DoD) created the Office of Net Assessment (ONA) with a charter and unique approach to strategic analysis. This approach questioned the suitability of systems analysis to assess long-term, dynamic competition between complex military organizations, and turned to more qualitative methods as analytic alternatives. Developments in computing technology and modeling methods over the last two decades, most notably agent-based modeling (ABM), provide new opportunities to address the central analytic questions that motivated the original development of net assessment as a distinctive practice of strategic analysis. By employing ABM to simulate and analyze the behavior of strategic, adaptive, boundedly rational actors, which have previously frustrated mathematical analysis, a new generation of computational models can provide opportunities to add rigor to net assessment.
Familial breast cancer
Authors: Sukumaran Shobini , Chawathey Kunal
Published: July 2017

Breast cancer is the most common malignancy in women; it affects about one in eight women. Familial breast cancer typically presents earlier than sporadic breast cancer, and is more often bilateral than in sporadic cases. Ovarian cancer is more common in familial breast cancer. A large number of studies have confirmed an increased breast cancer risk in patients with a significant family history of breast cancer. The breast cancer genotype has an autosomal dominant pattern of transmission. This article considers familial breast cancer and various aspects of breast cancer management in primary care, including the genetics of familial breast cancer, and guidelines on referral to secondary care.
Dupuytren's Disease: An overview of Aetiology, Pathology and Treatment
Authors: Mahendra Azad Sanjay , Cherian Anil , Raine Cameron , Dixon Janice E , Irvine Barbara E , Erdmann MWH
Published: July 2017

Dupuytren's disease is a common disorder in the practice of hand surgery and is characterised by contraction of the palmar fascia. It is predominantly seen in the Celtic population. The treatment is essentially surgical but this is associated with a high recurrence rate. Present-day research is directed at the myofibroblast, which is thought to be the central cellular mechanism responsible for Dupuytren's disease. This paper offers a review of the literature and highlights new areas of research into this condition.
The use of massage to influence collagen synthesis in the hand: A phsioloical justification
Authors: Ronon Christa
Published: July 2017

The hand is a structure of minute intricate function, which can become easily impaired by poor management of collagen synthesis post-injury. This paper presents an overview of the effects of massage on collagen synthesis. The paucity of research is discussed, and massage techniques are then justified on a physiological Level at each stage of healing. This paper recommends that the need for clinical trials is imperative. On a physiological basis the author considers that massage during acute inflammation is contraindicated. However, as fibroplasia and remodelling progress, increasingly aggressive massage techniques are indicated to prevent adhesion and contracture formation.
Live Research: A Preliminary Investigation of Research Interest and Activityin Hand Therapy
Authors: Steward Barbara
Published: July 2017

Research has been identified as a priority for health service professionals to provide an evidence base for their practice. This report of a small-scale questionnaire study, carried out with therapists attending the BAHT Conference 2001, identifies the current level of research involvement of this group and the directions they considered important for subsequent investigation. These findings suggest interest and in-house involvement in audit and research activity, but low levels of publication and dissemination of findings. The preliminary results have informed the development of a full BAHT membership survey.
The Effect of Massage to Scars on Active Range of Motion and Skin Mobility
Authors: Donnelly Carolyn J. , Wilton Judith
Published: July 2017

Massage to scars is recommended in the hand therapy literature for a range of conditions. However, existing studies reveal a lack of scientific evidence to support the efficacy of scar massage. This study investigated the effect of scar massage, in conjunction with a customised hand therapy programme, on active range of motion and skin mobility, in conditions involving a linear scar at the wrist. Twenty-two subjects underwent a treatment programme inclusive or not inclusive of scar massage. Wrist motion and skin mobility were evaluated over a four week observation period.

Results indicated that the inclusion of scar massage accelerated recovery of wrist motion over a four week period however, it did not accelerate recovery of skin mobility. These preliminary results support the use of massage within a therapeutic programme to address deficits in range associated with scarring in the vicinity of hand joints.
Systematic Reviews, the Cochrane Collaboration and Hand Therapy
Authors: Handoll Helen HG , Madhok Rajan , Howe Tracey E
Published: July 2017

This paper describes the work of the Cochrane Collaboration in producing systematic reviews of health care interventions. It examines the present and potential relevance of Cochrane reviews to clinicians providing hand therapy and gives some pointers for those who wish to take a more active role in evaluating the evidence for their clinical practice.
The Use of DermaDry™ Soft Splinting for Thumb Metacarpophalangeal Joint, Carpometacarpal Joint and Wrist Problems
Authors: Kennedy Sue
Published: July 2017

DermaDry™ is an alternative to neoprene for semi-flexible (soft) splints. It provides a durable, supportive, comfortable splinting medium which has stretch, warmth and compression. Patterns are described to support a variety of thumb and wrist problems, with practical fabrication information and illustrations. A case study is included, adapting the designs to solve a unique problem.
The Process of Prioritisation: Thoughts on Identifying Research Priorities in Hand Therapy
Authors: Steward Barbara
Published: July 2017

The research-practice divide has long been debated and problems identified regarding the relevance of academic research to everyday clinical issues. The problem of providing evidence directly pertinent and applicable to practice has, in part, been addressed by increasing user involvement in the planning, analysis, application and dissemination of research. So, it has become common in professional groups to explore research priorities with the membership to ensure that current issues are researched with an expectation that the findings will be welcomed and more easily integrated into practice. This paper explores the process whereby these prioritisation exercises have been undertaken and considers the factors which might be driving the choice of topics to be prioritised for research. The aim is to generate a debate about how the identification of relevant research priorities can be better planned to reflect the needs of an informed and involved user group.