bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Expertise Differences in Attentional Strategies Related to Pilot Decision Making
Authors: Schriver Angela T. , Morrow Daniel G. , Wickens Christopher D. , Talleur Donald A.
Published: January 2012

While much is known about differences in decision making outcomes related to pilot expertise, less is known about the processes that underlie these differences. We explored expertise differences in decision making processes by simultaneously measuring expert and novice pilots' attention, using eye-tracking, and their decision outcomes in a realistic context. We also investigated how expertise differences in pilots' attentional strategies were influenced by cue properties of diagnosticity and correlation. Fourteen expert and 14 novice pilots flew brief simulated flights. Half the flights contained failures that required diagnosis and an action (i.e., a decision). The environmental cues that signaled these failures varied in diagnosticity and/or correlation. We found that experts made better decisions than novices in terms of speed and accuracy. Both groups made faster correct decisions when cues were higher in diagnosticity. Only experts made faster correct decisions when cues were correlated. Experts attended more to cues relevant to the failure when a failure was present. Findings suggest that expertise differences in decision outcomes partly reflect attentional strategies relevant to problem diagnosis.
Input Application for Taxi Instructions: Design Strategy
Authors: Roefs Fenne , Koeners Joris , Theunissen Erik
Published: January 2012

In this paper the design approach is described for an input application, that allows pilots to enter taxi instructions into an Electronic Flight Bag within the currently available infrastructure and current procedures. The goal was to achieve this without adding to either pilot or controller workload, or increasing radio communication. To better understand the design options, and associated information requirements and constraints, the design space was mapped. The mapped space shows the relation between the total number of routes, the number of input options that are presented simultaneously, and the number of entries needed for route input. Using this map, possible route definition concepts were defined, ranging from a one-out-of-all selection, via a hybrid selection/specification, to a completely specification-based approach. The latter two have been implemented and evaluated. It was concluded that the hybrid approach is the most suitable for route input.
Implicit Attitudes and Aeronautical Decision Making
Authors: Pauley Keryn , O'Hare David
Published: January 2012

The aim of this study was to examine the role of implicit processes in aeronautical risk taking. Qualified pilots completed an implicit association test (Greenwald, McGhee, & Schwartz, 1998) measuring implicit anxiety felt towards adverse weather, and a measure of involvement in hazardous aeronautical events (Hunter, 1995). There was a relationship between implicit anxiety and the pilots' involvement in hazardous events. The more weather-related hazardous events the pilot had been involved in, the less implicitly anxious towards adverse weather the pilots were. The same pattern of results was found when assessing the pilots' involvement in weather-related hazardous events. This suggests that one of the reasons why pilots may be involved in such events is because they are less implicitly afraid of flying in bad weather.
Population Analysis: Communicating About Anthropometry in Context
Authors: Thaxton Sherry , Rajulu Sudhakar
Published: January 2012

Providing accommodation to a widely varying user population presents a challenge to engineers and designers. It is often even difficult to quantify who is accommodated and who is not accommodated by designs, especially for equipment for which human-system integration is affected by multiple critical anthropometric dimensions. An approach to communicating levels of accommodation, hereby referred to as “population analysis,” applies existing human factors techniques in novel manners. This paper defines population analysis and discusses its major applications and case studies. The major applications of population analysis consist of providing accommodation information for multivariate problems and enhancing the value of feedback from human-in-the-loop testing. The results of these analyses range from the provision of specific accommodation percentages of the user population to recommendations of design specifications based on quantitative data. Such feedback is invaluable to designers and results in the design of products that accommodate the intended user population.
A Systematic Tool for Deriving Crew Console Layouts
Authors: Olofinboba Olu , DeMers Robert , Dorneich Michael C. , Hamblin Chris , Wise John
Published: January 2012

This paper describes the use of the Function Allocation Matrix Tool (FAMT) for designing spacecraft cockpit layouts. NASA's Constellation Program intends to return humans to the moon by 2020, followed by exploration to Mars and beyond. The Orion Crew Exploration Vehicle (CEV) will serve as primary vehicle for transporting the crew. Orion will be equipped with a modern ‘glass cockpit’ that will allow the operators to command and control all of the vehicle's systems via graphics-based displays not unlike those now common in modern flight decks. The design of Orion's displays and controls places an increased emphasis on human-computer interaction and usability. In particular, the use of the FAMT drove the process of allocating displays and controls to reach and visual zones within the CEV 604 configuration cockpit. The result was the baseline display and control configuration for the Orion spacecraft.
Design of a Cursor Control Device for the Orion Crew Exploration Vehicle
Authors: Hamblin Christopher J. , DeMers Bob , Olofinboba Olu
Published: January 2012

NASA has embarked on a new program to develop vehicles for returning humans to the Moon by 2020. The Orion Crew Exploration Vehicle (CEV) will replace the Space Shuttle and serve as the primary vehicle for transporting the crew. Orion will be equipped with a modern “glass cockpit” that will allow operators to command and control all of the vehicle's systems from one of two operator stations. The design of Orion's operator stations creates some unique human-machine interface issues due primarily to the vehicle design and the extreme conditions the crew must operate in. One of the unique challenges for Orion is the need for a novel cursor control device that allows the crew to interact with the vehicle while seated and restrained. This paper describes some of the human factors challenges of designing such a device as well as the process that was employed.
A Dynamic Model of Stress in the G-DEVS Formalism
Authors: Seck Mamadou , Frydman Claudia , Lsis Norbert Giambiasi
Published: January 2012

This paper presents a model of stress based on theories and data originating from psychology, physiology and human factors literature. Our goal is to provide a formal framework for modeling and simulation of behavior moderators. G-DEVS offers a basis for specifying formal models and a clean simulation semantics. The presented model can be utilized in the context of cognitive simulation, jointly with a cognitive architecture to reflect the impact of stress on performance.
Using Physiological Measures to Discriminate Signal Detection Outcome during Imagery Analysis
Authors: Hale Kelly S. , Fuchs Sven , Axelsson Par , Berka Chris , Cowell Andrew J.
Published: January 2012

An experiment was conducted to explore the feasibility of using physiological indicators (i.e. eye-tracking and electroencephalography [EEG]) to drive identification of relevant areas of interest during imagery analysis. Results indicate that ocular fixations are longer when a target is believed to be present. Furthermore, the accuracy of correct identification of targets could be identified based on fixation duration, given that fixations were significantly longer when a target was actually present. In addition, by synching eye-tracking fixation points to EEG, fixation-locked event-related potentials (FLERPs) show potential for detecting distinctive patterns and scalp distributions for various types of fixations, which may be used to classify fixation points based on level of interest. This paper reports findings from a study and summarizes challenges and implications for constructing a system where eye tracking is used to drive EEG ERP evaluation of interest during a defined search task within complex static images.
Augmented Cognition and Training in the Laboratory: DVTE System Validation
Authors: Vogel-Walcutt Jennifer J. , Schatz Sae , Bowers Clint , Gebrim Juliana Beatriz , Sciarini Lee W.
Published: January 2012

As the modern workplace becomes more complex, the training community needs to develop new strategies to continute to create a competent workforce. The emerging field of augmented cognition may be able to contribute greatly to increasing training capability through the use of neurophysiological measures that support real-time performance and can be used to satisfy some of the requirements of an automated intelligent tutoring system. The first step to building this system is to design and validate a testbed that can be used with future efforts to target effective mitigation strategies with learning efficiency. In this study, participants watched a computerized instructional presentation and then engaged in a practice CFF scenario in the simulator. When finished, each participant was assigned to either a low or high task load test scenario. In both, the goal was to destroy five enemy tanks. Some participants were also asked to simultaneously execute a secondary radar monitoring task. Both the National Aeronautics and Space Administration's Task Load Index (NASA-TLX) and the MRQ were used to assess the validity of the testbed. Results from both measures indicate that a significant difference exists between the two levels of workload and further, we can distinguish between the subscales within each measurement tool. Thus, the overarching goal of this study was achieved. High and low workload scenarios were created and validated. Ultimatly, they will be used as a testbed of scenarios to address the questions surrounding the use of neurophysiological equipment to impact individual learning patterns.
Biomarkers for Effects of Fatigue and Stress on Performance: EEG, P300 and Heart Rate Variability
Authors: Berka Chris , Johnson Robin , Whitmoyer Melissa , Behneman Adrienne , Popovic Djordje , Davis Gene
Published: January 2012

The increasing demands of the global economy for 24-hour, 7-day operations is affecting the health and performance of workers worldwide. The deleterious effects of chronic sleep deprivation and associated stress have potentially dangerous and expensive consequences as a result of impaired alertness, attention, memory and decision-making for individuals at work, at home and on the roads. In addition, long-term health related concerns, including increased risk for sleep, metabolic and cardiovascular diseases as well as an overall decrease in immune function, are only beginning to be understood. Recent findings reveal individual differences in the level of vulnerability to the effects of sleep deprivation, suggesting that some people are genetically predisposed to better endure sleep loss than others. The ability to select individuals who are relatively resistant to performance decrements due to sleep loss and stress could have immense value to the military and industry in general. This report describes progress in developing non-invasive psychophysiological assessments that provide easy and inexpensive biomarkers for fatigue and stress that can be implemented in operational environments.
Considerations on Analogue to Digital Converter Architectures for EEG Acquisition in Augmented Cognition Applications
Authors: Casson Alexander J. , Rodriguez-Villegas Esther
Published: January 2012

Analogue to Digital Conversion (ADC) forms an essential part of EEG systems allowing signals to be represented in the digital domain and processed by a computer. For wearable, battery powered applications, such as those envisioned in augmented cognition, power consumption is a key design parameter. This paper investigates the ADC specifications that are used for typical augmented cognition applications and links these to a review of ADC topologies and performance. It is found that the ADC power consumption is an exponential function of the resolution of the ADC, but that the resolution required is often over estimated. Also, care is required when considering oversampling converters to ensure that the power consumption of decimation is accounted for.
Applying SA-Oriented Design to the Integrative Collaborative Control of Multiple Unmanned Vehicle Systems
Authors: Connors Erik S. , Strater Laura D. , Riley Jennifer M. , Endsley Mica R.
Published: January 2012

The cognitive processes underlying collaboration and knowledge interoperability are challenged in team-based multi-vehicle supervisory control beyond those typically found in solitary unmanned vehicle (UV) control. This paper addresses the application of SA-Oriented Design principles to the development of collaborative control interfaces that enable small co-located or distributed teams of operators to plan and manage multiple UVs while supporting high levels of situation awareness (SA) while improving knowledge construction and collaborative teamwork. Following this approach, Goal Directed Task Analyses for three separate unmanned systems were combined with a novel concept of operations for the Littoral Combat Ship (LCS) platform and the results of subject matter expert role-playing to rapidly prototype the collaborative control interface environment.
Human-Robot Interaction II: The Impact of Human Factors on Unmanned Systems
Authors: Gillan Douglas J.
Published: January 2012

The sophistication of robotics systems has increased the utility of unmanned systems for complex military operations. The increasing capability and functionality of current and future robotics requires comparable enhancements to robotics interfaces and displays for tasking and controlling unmanned systems. The symposium participants identified key issues and challenges in human-robot interaction with respect to situation awareness (SA), perception and performance, and workload. The purpose of the symposium is to discuss current research findings and how these findings can be applied. The authors and audience will discuss the challenges of conducting human-robot interaction (HRI) research and the lessons learned for the design of human-robotic interactions and interfaces.
Effectiveness of Concurrent Performance of Military and Robotics Tasks and Effects of Cueing in a Simulated Multi-Tasking Environment
Authors: Chen Jessie Y. C.
Published: January 2012

We simulated a military mounted crewstation environment and conducted two experiments to examine the workload and performance of the combined position of gunner and robotics operator. The robotics tasks involved managing a semi-autonomous ground robot or teleoperating a ground robot to conduct reconnaissance tasks. We also evaluated whether aided target recognition (AiTR) capabilities (delivered either through tactile or tactile + visual cueing) for the gunnery task might benefit the concurrent robotics and communication tasks. Results showed that participants' gunnery task performance degraded significantly when s/he had to concurrently monitor, manage, or teleoperate a robot compared to the gunnery-single task condition. When there was AiTR to assist them with their gunnery task, operators' concurrent performance of robotics and communication tasks improved significantly. However, there was a tendency for participants to over-rely on automation when taskload was heavy, and performance degradations were observed in instances where automation failed to be entirely reliable. Participants' spatial ability was found to be a reliable predictor of robotics task performance. Participants' perceived workload increased consistently as the concurrent task conditions became more challenging and when their gunnery task was unassisted.
Considerations for Use of Aerial Views in Remote Unmanned Ground Vehicle Operations
Authors: Chadwick Roger A.
Published: January 2012

Remote unmanned ground vehicle (UGV) operations place the human operator at a perceptual disadvantage. Adding aerial views can benefit the operator's spatial cognition by supplying the missing contextual information regarding the vehicle's position and relation to other objects in the space surrounding the vehicle. In order to benefit from this additional information the operator must control and integrate multiple viewpoints. In a series of experiments the use of aerial views was examined including control mode options and altitude for the aerial scene imaging. Results indicate that aerial views are beneficial in UGV search tasks and that auto-tracking aerial imaging control modes should be considered.
Demonstrating CWA Strategies Analysis: A Case Study of Municipal Winter Maintenance
Authors: Hilliard Antony , Thompson Laura , Ngo Cam
Published: January 2012

Widespread acceptance of Cognitive Work Analysis (CWA) as a framework for design of complex sociotechnical systems is dependent on how well the theoretical foundations can be applied to real-world systems. Although literature on CWA has many application examples, the first phase, Work Domain Analysis, is over-represented. Later phases such as Strategies Analysis, the third phase of CWA, can provide comparable insight to designers. Understanding how activities can be performed can be instrumental in designing work support tools that are robust to changing priorities and conditions. In this paper, a Strategies Analysis is applied to the City of Toronto Municipal Winter Maintenance Program to illustrate how an analysis can be conducted. Both a traditional Strategies Analysis in decision-making terms and a novel Strategies Analysis in work domain terms are presented.
Effects of Training Base Rates and Transfer Similarity: A Comparison of Two Visual Search Scenarios
Authors: Brown Jeremy R. , Madhavan Poornima
Published: January 2012

Research has documented that high levels of signal probability (or base rates) during training positively impact transfer of learning when transfer stimuli differ from training stimuli. Whether this transfer performance varies significantly from situations where transfer stimuli are identical to training stimuli is unknown. To examine this, participants (scenario 1: n = 36, scenario 2: n = 33) performed a visual search task wherein they were trained on one of three base rates: 100%, 50%, 20%; at transfer, participants detected the same targets used during training (scenario 1) or novel targets (scenario 2), at a base rate of 20%. Higher base rates improved transfer (higher hit rates) only when transfer stimuli differed from training stimuli. When transfer stimuli were identical to training stimuli, differential base rate training did not have significant effects on transfer performance. These results have implications for improving training modules for operators in vigilance tasks.
Framing and Context Effects in Visual Search Training
Authors: Lacson Frank C. , Gonzalez Cleotilde , Madhavan Poornima
Published: January 2012

Framed incentive structures and context effects may have training implications for applied visual search tasks such as airline luggage screening. Participants were trained with various incentive structures that focused, or were sensitive to, various signal detection outcomes. Also, participants were trained with different context representations (weapons or produce search). Twenty-four hours later, participants performed a transfer session in which the incentive structure and target set was unknown. Incentive structures that focused on negative outcomes (misses) led to a response bias that was closer to optimal compared to structures that focused on positive outcomes (hits). Task context affected response bias but had mixed effects on sensitivity. Results of this study may better inform the design of training and automated support for airline luggage screening and similar applied visual search tasks.
Screening Enhancements: Why don't they Enhance Performance?
Authors: Ghylin K. M. , Schwaninger A. , Drury C. G. , Redford J. , Lin L. , Batta R.
Published: January 2012

Data obtained utilizing image enhancements in a carry-on bag x-ray screening task were analyzed to determine whether and how image enhancements affect performance. To complement earlier studies of experienced screeners, sixty-six novices to the screening task used six different overall enhancements. Results indicated a significant worsening of performance, A', between Original images and Negative images, but no performance differences for the other enhancements, similar to effects found for experienced screeners. There was little overall performance learning taking place on the task. More detailed analysis by splitting response times into search and non-search components revealed little more enhancement effect, but a reduction in False Alarm response time as the task progressed. It appears that the locus of lack of positive effects of enhancements is not just a function of familiarity with the current screen view.
Less is more? Navigating with Different Types of Information on a Small-Screen Device
Authors: Nixon Jim , Sharples Sarah , Jackson Mike
Published: January 2012

An experiment was conducted to study differences in workload and performance of participants when navigating a route inside a building. Participants used a personal digital assistant (PDA) which presented three different types of spatial information. The spatial information varied in complexity. Spatial information was presented as a sequence of maps which were advanced by the user according to location. This method of presentation captures the essence of a location-based service; the spatial information presented is only relevant at that location. Results show significantly shorter route completion times and lower mental workload for participants using the simplified information when compared to the more complex information. Implications for the design of location-based navigation support on small-screen devices are discussed.
Evaluation of an Adaptive Interface for Fault Management
Authors: Letsu-Dake Emmanuel , Ntuen Celestine A. , Seong Younho , Jiang Xiaochun (Steve)
Published: January 2012

Adaptive interfaces support the performance of human operators by providing the appropriate aid, information or functionality at any point in operation. This study presents an experimental evaluation of an adaptive interface. Comparing an adaptive interface to a non-adaptive one for the same process through experimentation can reveal its relative weaknesses and strengths. A sample simulation environment that controls a thermal-hydraulic process is used for this study. Using four performance criteria, the adaptive interface performed significantly better than the non-adaptive one.
The Effects of Brief Interruptions on Task Resumption
Authors: Monk Christopher A. , Kidd David G.
Published: January 2012

Research has suggested that the duration of an interruption can affect the time it takes to resume an interrupted task. According to the memory for goals model, goal activation gradually decays over time. Therefore goals that have been suspended for longer will require a greater amount of strengthening and time to retrieve. Whereas most interruptions research has examined interruptions ranging from 5 seconds to several minutes, there are both theoretical reasons and empirical evidence to suggest that interruptions as short as 250 ms can lead to delays in task resumption. The effects of brief interruptions were investigated across two studies. In the first study, participants were interrupted for 250 ms and 5000 ms. In the second study, participants were interrupted for 500 ms, 1000 ms, and 2000 ms. Findings indicated that interruptions as brief as 500 ms can delay resumption. Additionally, resumption delays tended to increase as a function of interruption duration.
Identifying Display Concepts to Support Distributed Collaboration of Unmanned Vehicle Teams
Authors: Hoffman Joshua D. , Lee John D. , Seppelt Bobbie D.
Published: January 2012

Fleets of unmanned vehicles promise to extend human capabilities in many domains, ranging from search and rescue to intelligence gathering. Achieving the promise of unmanned vehicles places a particular demand on coordination, in which operators must allocate and reallocate tasks and resources to meet the needs of the evolving mission. An obvious solution to supporting coordination is to enhance communication. However, traditional verbal and text-based communication could exacerbate the problem by imposing greater load on operators during periods of high workload and by introducing ambiguity that is inherent in natural language. We propose an alternative in which coordination is supported through a shared representation of the work domain constraints and the activity of others. Such an alternative supports implicit communication that often effectively coordinates face-to-face coordination, but is often neglected in computer-mediated coordination. This approach enables stimergy—communication through action on the environment—that makes it possible for coordinated activity to emerge without central control or complex communication. The paper shows how cognitive work analysis leads to display concepts that can support stimergy and reduce the need for explicit communication.
Communication and Coordination Failures in the Process Industries
Authors: Laberge Jason C. , Bullemer Peter , Whitlow Stephen D.
Published: January 2012

Previous research shows that effective team communication and coordination is required for managing normal and abnormal situations (Laberge & Goknur, 2006). The purpose of this project is to quantify common communication and coordination failures and root causes of abnormal situations in the process industries. Fourteen incident reports were analyzed using the TapRoot® root cause analysis methodology. The top five communication and coordination failures were failures of: planning or preparatory activities (31%), individual and team execution (14%), work direction and supervision (13%), communication between functional groups (12%), and activity assessment (10%). The study of root causes showed that ineffective standards, policies, and administrative controls (SPAC); poor crew teamwork; a lack of communication; and no supervision were common reasons for failures.
Graphical User Authentication: A Comparative Evaluation of Composite Scene Authentication vs. Three Competing Graphical Passcode Systems
Authors: Johnson Korey , Werner Steffen
Published: January 2012

Previous studies (Johnson & Werner, 2006; 2007) have shown that Composite Scene Authentication (CSA) passcodes are more memorable than alphanumeric passwords over extended retention intervals. This study evaluated the memorability of six types of graphical passcodes of varying complexity (including three variants of CSA passcodes) over thirty-minute and one-week retention intervals. The graphical passcodes were compared to one another, as well as to an alphanumeric password of equivalent bit length. A strong overall advantage in information retained was found for graphical passcodes (M = 92.83%) compared to alphanumeric passwords (M = 75.47%). In addition, CSA passcodes were remembered better (M = 97.1 %) than other graphical passcodes (M = 88.56%). An even larger difference was observed for percent successful logins for CSA passcodes (M = 84.23%) compared to other graphical passcodes (M= 56.39%) after the one-week retention interval. The variable bit lengths of the passcodes did not affect percent information retained.
Examining the Onscreen Legibility of the Number ‘0’ and Number ‘1’
Authors: Fox Doug , Chaparro Barbara S. , Merkle Ed
Published: January 2012

This article reports on the features that influence the legibility of the numbers ‘0’ and ‘1’ using classification tree analysis. These numbers were reported to be two of the most confused characters in a larger study examining the legibility of lowercase letters, digits, and symbols across 20 different typefaces. Classification tree results suggested that the most influential feature for the ‘0’ was height, and the most influential feature for ‘1’ was perimeter. These results can be used to help typographers design characters that optimize legibility. Optimal legibility for onscreen numbers is important in situations that include reading online identifiers, such as user names and passwords, or deciphering alphanumeric codes onscreen, such as air traffic control.
“Thanks for Pointing that Out.” Making Sarcasm Accessible for all
Authors: Fourney David , Fels Deborah
Published: January 2012

Television programs and films include emotional content which is intended to be captured and interpreted by the viewer. Auditory content such as sound effects, mood music, and vocal intonation cannot be perceived by those in the audience who cannot hear. The tone of voice used to communicate sarcasm is one such type of content. While captioning is designed to assist the deaf and hard of hearing in understanding this information, it has many weaknesses. This paper presents the results of a pilot study which applied user interface design principles to develop prototypes of enhanced captioning technology that can support the translation of sarcastic auditory emotional content into a visual modality.
Design and Usability Evaluation of Foot Interfaces for Dynamic Text Editing
Authors: Kim Sang-Hwan , Kaber David B.
Published: January 2012

The objective of this study was to design and evaluate the use of foot pedal controls for dynamic text editing. An experiment was conducted to assess whether the new foot control method would improve editing performance, compared to conventional mouse use, and to identify specific types of foot control most convenient for users. Four prototype methods involving use of two foot pedals vs. one pedal with zero-order or first order control were developed and tested against mousing in an editing task with dynamic changes in text size (e.g., instant messaging). Prototype methods involving first order control were found to be comparable to the mouse method in task completion time, accuracy and subjective workload. Among the four prototypes, foot control using two pedals with first order control was superior to the other methods, in performance. Consequently, foot pedals may be effectively utilized in computing operations, particularly dynamic text editing tasks, as an alternative or additional input device. Furthermore, such methods may be particularly suited for special populations.
Engaging, Non-Invasive Brain-Computer Interfaces (BCIs) for Improving Training Effectiveness & Enabling Creative Expression
Authors: Rapoport Evan D. , Nishimura Erin M. , Zadra Jonathan R. , Wubbels Peter M. , Proffitt Dennis R. , Downs Traci H. , Downs J. Hunter
Published: January 2012

Controlling computers and other electronic devices using only one's thoughts is an exciting yet unlikely and distant reality for most people. However, for people with locked-in syndrome, their disabilities are so severe that they have no other alternatives. Applications that are consciously controlled using signals from the brain (called brain-computer interfaces, or BCIs) have been shown to restore some communication and environmental control for these individuals. Unfortunately, BCIs can be slow and tedious to learn or operate, reducing their effectiveness. This demonstration presents engaging BCI applications, including a video game and a digital painting program, that enable users to have fun while they improve their control over the brain signals required to use BCIs.
An Intelligence Application Providing Multiple Coordinated Data Views
Authors: Hayes Caroline Clarke
Published: January 2012

This paper summarizes CoRaven, a suite of integrated tools that provide multiple, coordinated views of intelligence data. CoRaven is designed to assist military intelligence personnel in developing intelligence collection plans, interpreting intelligence data, and assessing possible enemy plans. It provides several coordinated ways to view intelligence data terrain, temporal and logical views. These views are coordinated by a cross-linking function that allows users to highlight data concepts in one view and see the corresponding concepts in the other views. The terrain view provides a simple and easy to understand presentation that graphically displays the likelihood of several enemy position hypotheses. This display is driven by a Bayesian belief network. Lastly, the paper will provide observations and assessments as to which aspects were most successful, for which type of users (analysts vs. commanders), and why.
Haptic Feedback in the Instructional Environment and its Relationship to Visual Attention and Learning
Authors: Cowley Jennifer , Wiebe Eric N. , Minogue James , Jones M. Gail , Krebs Denise
Published: January 2012

This study, involving a computer-based training application coupled with a haptic input device, offered insight into how haptic feedback influences visual attention in learning applications. Data was collected from 33 students (ages 11–14) who completed a learning module on lever principles. This data consists of paper-based pre- and post-test scores, embedded module test scores and eye movement data. Embedded test scores were significantly higher in the non-haptic condition. Eye movement data revealed differential influences of haptic feedback. A path analysis of gaze movements indicated that haptic feedback was associated with increased frequencies of movements between zones of interest surrounding lever components but there were no significant increases in the frequencies of eye movements between the levers and the numeric force readout. Implications of these findings are discussed.
US-Mexico Industrial Engineering Education Partnership: Clemson University and University of Sonora
Authors: Ferrell William G. , Gramopadhye Anand K.
Published: January 2012

This paper outlines an international engineering program between the Industrial Engineering Departments of Clemson University and University of Sonora focused on integrating education and research with industrial collaboration. The paper provides a brief rationale for the need to develop such a program, overall partnership model, potential impact, and assessment to support the successful evaluation of the program.
Task-Specific Speed Preferences When Sitting on a Rotary Dynamic Seat
Authors: Lawler E. , Hedge A.
Published: January 2012

Eleven subjects, 5 male and 6 female, all with back pain, performed 3 times 10-minute tasks separated by 2 × 10-minute relaxation tasks, while sitting for one 1-hour session on a rotary dynamic seat (DS). Ss preferred different speed settings depending on task. Ss chose to have no motion (speed setting 0) for “active tasks” (writing, typing, and using the mouse) and moderate speed (speed setting 3 or 4) for passive (relaxation) tasks. Subjective responses showed that Ss needed to concentrate and felt the movement was interfering with performance and attention during active tasks. Ss found the DS relaxing and soothing during passive tasks, which required less concentration and performance.
The Real Deal: Essential Lessons from Human Factors Leaders
Authors: Nemeth Christopher
Published: January 2012

Each professional discipline has a set of essential concepts that form the core of its intellectual capital. This is also true for human factors and ergonomics (HF/E), but what is that set? HFES national meeting sessions address particular research interests. However, no session embraces essential aspects that affect the entire HF/E community. Four senior professionals offered their insights on the essential HF/E issues during this session. Some are serious, such as most important classic concept, and recent developments. Others are irreverent, thought-provoking, and fun, such as: the bad idea that won't go away and the idea that's most overused but least understood. The comments, and recommended readings list, provide thoughtful insights for the professional growth of each human factors professional.
The Need for Human Factors in the Sustainability Domain
Authors: Flemming Scott A.C. , Hilliard Antony , Jamieson Greg A.
Published: January 2012

Curbing the over-harvesting of the earth's resources by the developed and developing world cannot be achieved solely by technological solutions. This paper reviews the literature on how reductions in energy consumption can be achieved through behavioral interventions. The literature shows that feedback, a consequence intervention, has been shown to be more effective than antecedent interventions in correcting erroneous heuristics and biases as well as encouraging both efficiency and curtailment behaviors. However, few feedback studies approach the feedback design problem systematically. Human Factors specialists have an opportunity to contribute their expertise in human-machine systems to help address these deficiencies and aid in shifting our societies toward sustainable resource consumption.
Automatic Classification of Medical Images for Content Based Image Retrieval Systems (CBIR)
Authors: Uwimana Epaphrodite , Ruiz Miguel E
Published: January 2012

This paper describes the results after using an automatic classification method to help improve the retrieval of medical images. Using a large dataset of medical images, we established links between low-level features from medical images and high-level features from textual codes of Image Retrieval for Medical Application (IRMA). This paper also explains the process and methods used to automatically classify these medical images, and the results from the classification process. Our best classification results were on image modality with an error-rate of 1%.
SMARTER-Team: Adapting Event-based Tools for Simulation-based Training in Healthcare
Authors: Rosen Michael A. , Lazzara Elizabeth H. , Lyons Rebecca , Weaver Sallie J. , Salas Eduardo , Wu Teresa , Silvestri Salvatore , King Heidi B.
Published: January 2012

Teamwork training has been targeted as a primary method for addressing safety and effectiveness issues in healthcare. This paper presents a systematic and event-based method for developing scenarios and accompanying performance measurement tools for simulation-based team training in healthcare. The approach described here, SMARTER-Team, is adapted from a recently advanced methodology for using SBT to train and assess the ACGME core competencies in Emergency Medicine residency programs. SMARTER-Team focuses on the development of teamwork competencies and can be used to develop SBT for teams across specialty areas.
Healthcare CEOs' Leadership Style and Patient Safety
Authors: Yule S , Flin R , Davies JM , McKee L
Published: January 2012

Concern about patient safety in healthcare has generally concentrated on the clinical actions and behaviors of the front line staff, those at the so-called ‘sharp end’ or operational level of the institution who provide direct patient care. Workers and their supervisors receive the most scrutiny due to their proximity to adverse events and many interventions, for example training and error/incident reporting systems are targeted at this level of staff. Cultural assessment tools also often focus exclusively on direct care providers. What is frequently overlooked is the role of senior leaders (e.g. Chief Executive Officer (CEO)) and the influence their style and priorities can have on patient safety. This study presents some of the first data on healthcare CEOs' leadership style with respect to patient safety in the United Kingdom (UK) and Canada. We found that transformational leadership and contingent reward were significantly correlated with perceptions of safety climate at executive director level. Furthermore, healthcare CEOs who routinely prioritized patient safety were rated significantly higher on safety climate by the executive directors who report to them.
Symposium on Patient Safety
Authors: Hallbeck M. Susan , Koneczny Sonja
Published: January 2012

This paper summarizes the key points of the four papers that will be presented in this “Symposium on Patient Safety”.
Processes and Support Tools for Interhospital Neonatal Patient Transfer: A Preliminary Study
Authors: Miller Anne , Novak Laurie , Weinger Matt , Buerhaus Peter
Published: January 2012

There has been a growing interest in interhospital patient transfers. However, much of this research has focussed on the criteria for transferring patients; very little research is available about the transfer process itself. The purpose of this preliminary study was to describe the process and support technology used to transfer neonatal intensive care patients from metropolitan and rural hospitals to Vanderbilt Children's Hospital (VCH). Three patient transfer events were observed using ethnographic observational methods. One researcher observed processes at VCH while a second researcher accompanied the transport team. Data from both perspectives were collated and integrated. The resulting process model shows that patient transfers are complex, highly choreographed processes involving three leaders. Multiple modes of technology are used for very different purposes. Areas of potential vulnerability include leader inexperience, the use of paper forms by multiple leaders and complexities associated with the convergence of parallel processes. Directions for future research are suggested.
The Use of Low-Pass Image Filtering to Facilitate Detection of Peripheral Nerves for Ultrasound-Guided Nerve Block Procedures
Authors: Portnoy Felix , Milgram Paul , McCartney Colin J.
Published: January 2012

Ultrasound-guided nerve block (UGNB) allows anesthesiologists to perform regional anesthesia around peripheral nerves using ultrasound images for visual guidance. Compared to conventional peripheral nerve stimulation techniques, UGNB provides a safer and more effective method to perform regional anesthesia. However, identification of peripheral nerves with ultrasound can often be problematic, especially for inexperienced users. This paper provides an in depth analysis of the difficulties associated with targeting and locating peripheral nerves during UGNB and proposes a real-time image processing solution, in the form of a low-pass persistence filter, which should increase target saliency in ultrasound images.
Comparing the Effects of Two Controller Algorithms on DC Torque Tool Operators
Authors: Johnson MR , Vandlen KA , Hutter EE , Gahlot R , Yen W-T , Kommini S , Sommerich CM
Published: January 2012

Prior studies of effects of DC torque tool use on human operators have not studied the effect of different controller algorithms. This paper describes results of an experimental laboratory-based study that investigated the effects of DC torque tool controller algorithm on operator and tool kinematics. The effects of joint hardness and tool orientation were also examined. Dependent measures included posture and velocity of the operator's arm and displacement and velocity of the torque tool handle. Significant differences were found in several measures as a function of one or more of the independent variables. Of particular note, the Automatic Tightening Control (ATC) algorithm showed some positive effects (less movement and lower velocities) in comparison to the Downshift algorithm in certain conditions. These results provide some support for a potential biomechanical benefit from ATC.
Utilization of a Hybrid Neuro-Fuzzy Engine to Predict Trunk Muscle Activity for Sagittal Lifting
Authors: Davis Kermit G. , Hou Yanfeng , Marras William S. , Karwowski Waldemar , Zurada Jacek M. , Kotowski Susan E.
Published: January 2012

The ability to assess the loads on the spine in industry using biologically-assisted models has been limited by the current capability to obtain accurate muscle activities that could be entered into an EMG-assisted model. One crucial aspect of EMG-assisted models is the capability to capture the antagonistic coactivity in dynamic lifting conditions. However, limitations of electromyography equipment make it difficult to assess the muscle activity in industry. The overall project developed a complex engine using fuzzy average with fuzzy cluster distribution techniques in combination with neural network structure. The objective of the current study was compare the predicted spine loads for the actual and predicted muscle activities during sagittal lifting conditions. The model fidelity of the EMG-assisted spine load model was actually improved with the predicted EMG as compared to the actual EMG with improved r-square and average absolute error values. Furthermore, the three-dimensional spine loads were almost identical for the predicted EMG as compared to the actual EMG (within 35 N in each plane). The compression forces predicted within 1% while shear forces were within 11%. Overall, the new neuro-fuzzy engine provides an accurate estimation of the coactivity pattern during lifting that can now be applied in industrial settings where traditional muscle activity assessment methods are subjected to noise or are difficult to administer.
Prevalence of Low Back Disorders in Furniture Distribution Centers
Authors: Ferguson Sue A. , Burr Deborah L. , Allread W. Gary , Ashida Sato , Fujishiro Kaori , Heaney Catherine , Marras William S.
Published: January 2012

The purpose of this study was to quantify the prevalence of low back disorders in furniture distribution centers. This was a cross-sectional study with 454 workers in 9 furniture distribution centers. There were five definitions of low back disorders including 1) pain symptoms, 2) Oswestry questionnaire 3) LMM functional performance, 4) medical visits, and 5) lost time. The pain symptoms and Oswestry questionnaire had a one-week prevalence of 56.6% and 54.6%, respectively. The LMM functional performance had a point prevalence of 37.2%. Medical visits and lost time had a one-year prevalence of 11.9% and 7.5%, respectively. The pain symptom prevalence of low back disorder in furniture distribution was similar to that of construction workers and nurses placing this industry among other more well known high risk industries.
Knee Joint Kinetics during Reactive Recovery: Effects of Localized Muscle Fatigue
Authors: Parijat Prakriti , Lockhart Thurmon E , Liu Jian
Published: January 2012

The purpose of this study was to investigate the effects of localized muscle fatigue on the knee joint kinetics during reactive recovery efforts from a slip perturbation. Sixteen healthy young participants were recruited to walk across an unexpected slippery vinyl floor surface in two different sessions (Fatigue and No fatigue). Kinematic and kinetic data were collected using a three-dimensional video analysis system and force plates during both sessions. An inverse dynamic model was developed to assess joint moment and joint power of the knees during reactive recovery period of slip-induced falls. The results demonstrated an increase in the peak knee joint moment and peak knee joint power generation in the fatigue slip trials. There were four reported falls in the fatigue session. The study concluded that localized muscle fatigue adversely affects the knee joint kinetics and can be considered a risk factor for slip induced falls. These findings provide new insights to the biomechanical relationship between knee kinetics and localized muscle fatigue.