bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
User satisfaction with a telemedicine amputee clinic in Saskatchewan
Authors: Linassi A Gary , Shan R Li Pi
Published: July 2017

summary

A group of 15 patients with amputee-related diagnoses were given a satisfaction survey after telemedicine assessment. Most of the videoconferencing sessions used an IP connection at 768 kbit/s. The patients were seen at four sites. The average connection time was less than 5min and the average time for a session was approximately 40min. Thirteen questions required scaled responses (poor, fair, good, excellent) and two required yes/no answers. The 13 categories broadly related to satisfaction with the telemedicine service and the quality of specialist care. In all categories, 97% of the responses fell in the good to excellent range. Concerns were raised about ease of access to local telemedicine sites, connection waiting times and lack of familiarity with telemedicine technology. The study showed that telemedicine was acceptable to patients with amputations and provided a reliable assessment of the amputee.
Any Room For Aesthetics?
Authors: Lehtonen Turo-Kimmo
Published: July 2017

This article describes the everyday practices of consumption of heavily indebted people and discusses the links between economic resources and everyday aesthetics. It is based on interviews with people in a Finnish debt adjustment programme. Becoming overindebted has markedly changed the interviewees’ habits of consumption that are now characterized by constant and careful control of the resources and a self-understanding of never buying anything unnecessary. Becoming indebted has also affected the interviewees’ relations to the social world: on the one hand they now feel themselves inferior compared to other consumers with more resources; but on the other, some of them feel critical and superior in relation to the whole consumer culture; indebtedness has given them ‘new values’. Despite this critical stance, small pleasures and aesthetic judgements intermingle in the interviewees’ practices of shopping. Thus it becomes evident that degrees of freedom or aestheticism in consumption are not completely reducible to resources.
Cavitary Endoscopy in Trauma: 2001
Authors: Smith R. S.
Published: July 2017

Laparoscopy and thoracoscopy have been used in the evaluation of injured patients for over 30 years. Despite this long history, indications for use of these techniques remains controversial. The widespread availability of videoscopic equipment which followed the introduction of laparoscopic cholecystectomy increased interest and utilization of minimally invasive techniques in evaluation of trauma patients. Laparoscopy has been most beneficial in the evaluation of hemodynamically stable victims of stabbings and gunshots. This technique has primarily been used to detect peritoneal penetration in tangential wounds of the abdominal wall and for evaluation of the diaphragm in patients with thoracoabdominal wounds. Laparoscopic evaluation in blunt trauma patients is of unproven utility, but has been used in the assessment of patients with documented solid organ injury and in the evaluation of patients with suspected hollow viscus injury. Small subsets of patients are candidates for therapeutic laparoscopic interventions, i.e., suture repair of diaphragmatic lacerations. Thoracoscopy or videoassisted thoracic surgery (VATS) is useful for evaluation of the diaphragm, early evacuation of clotted hemothorax, and assessment of ongoing bleeding.
Charcot Arthropathy of the Diabetic Foot. Current Concepts and Review of 36 Cases
Authors: Pakarinen T.-K. , Laine H.-J. , Honkonen S. E. , Peltonen J. , Oksala H. , Lahtela J.
Published: July 2017

Background and Aims:

The incidence of diabetic Charcot neuroarthropathy has increased. The purpose here was to study the current diagnostics and treatment of the Charcot foot.

Materials and Methods:

During a time period from 1994 to 2000, a total of 36 feet were diagnosed as cases of diabetic Charcot neuroarthropathies. A retrospective analysis of patient records and radiographs was undertaken. A review of the recent literature is presented.

Results:

29 cases were diagnosed in the dissolution stage, 2 in coalascence, and 5 in the resolution stage. The diagnostic delay averaged 29 weeks. Treatment with cast immobilisation ranged from 4 to 37 weeks (mean 11 weeks). A total of 14 surgical procedures were carried out on 10 patients: six exostectomies, four midfoot arthrodeses, one triple arthrodesis, one tibiocalcaneal arthrodesis and two below-knee amputations. radiological fusion was achieved in two thirds of the attempted arthrodeses.

Conclusions:

A physician should always consider the Charcot neuroarthropathy when a diabetic patient has an inflamed foot. In the absence of fever, elevated CRP or ESR, infection is a highly unlikely diagnosis, and a Charcot process should primarily be considered. The initial treatment of an inflamed Charcot foot consists in sufficiently long non-weightbearing with a cast, which should start immediately after the diagnosis. The prerequisites of successful reconstructive surgery are correct timing, adequate fixation and a long postoperative non-weightbearing period. In the resolution stage most Charcot foot patients need custom-molded footwear.
The Oswestry Low Back Pain Disability Questionnaire a Two-Year Follow-Up of Spine Surgery Patients
Authors: Niskanen R. O.
Published: July 2017

Background and Aims:

So far there is no golden standard for the measurement of functional disability in spinal problems. The Oswestry index can be used to monitor the response to treatment and rehabilitation. It is based on a patient's subjective impression of his or her own state of disability. The purpose of this prospective study is to give a graphic presentation of the behaviour of the Oswestry index in different spine surgery groups.

Material and Methods:

The material includes 193 discectomy and decompressive operations. 37 of these patients had been operated earlier. The patients were observed for two years after the index operation through the mail with the Oswestry questionnaire.

Results:

Before an operation the average Oswestry index corresponded to severe disability on average. After successful treatment the Oswestry index dropped by 20–40 points on average. The more complex the problem the higher the postoperative lines remained.

Conclusions:

The results compared well with those of earlier studies. The graphs presented in this study may help the treating clinician to make conclusions on how his or her patients are doing on average after surgery.
Delay in Operative Treatment among Patients with Small Bowel Obstruction
Authors: Fevang B. T. , Fevang J. M. , Søreide O. , Svanes K. , Viste A.
Published: July 2017

Background and Aims:

Delay in operative treatment for small bowel obstruction (SBO) has been shown to affect outcome adversely. The objective of this study was to detect time trends in treatment delay for patients with SBO during the study period 1961 to 1995 and to investigate factors influencing and factors affected by delay.

Materials and Methods:

The records of 815 patients with 921 operations for SBO from 1961–1995 were studied. Patients with large bowel obstruction, paralytic ileus and SBO caused by abdominal cancer or intussusception were excluded. Data were analysed with descriptive statistics and multiple linear regression analyses.

Results:

Old age and female sex were associated with increased treatment delay. Delay in hospital increased from 5 hours (median) in the 1960'ies to 16 hours (median) in the 1990'ies. Treatment delay correlated significantly with postoperative morbidity and hospital stay. Mortality increased after prolonged treatment delay in SBO caused by hernias whereas no significant increase in mortality was observed among adhesive obstructions.

Conclusions:

Hospital delay increased throughout the study period. Old patients and women had a longer median treatment delay than did young ones and men. Treatment delay led to an increase in postoperative morbidity and hospital stay after surgery for SBO.
Symptomatic Outcome of Laparoscopic Fundoplication, Using a Minimal Dissection Technique
Authors: Victorzon M. , Tolonen P.
Published: July 2017

Background and Aims:

The symptomatic outcome of 135 consecutive patients operated laparoscopically for gastro-oesophageal reflux disease (GORD) by a minimal paraoesophageal dissection technique is reported.

Patients and Methods:

At a median (range) follow-up time of 25 months (6–82 months) we sent the patients a self-assessment questionnaire regarding symptomatic outcome of the operation.

Results:

Median (range) operation time was 65 minutes (33–185 minutes). Per- and postoperative complications occurred in four patients (3 %). There were no conversions and no mortality. The answering rate was 91 %. Of all patients, 87 % were free of reflux symptoms, 84 % without any medication, 99 % reported at least improvement, 90 %–95 % reported persistence of favourable outcome, 90 % were satisfied, 91 % scored the outcome as good or excellent, and 95 % of the patients were ready to recommend the operation to family or friend. However, 31 % reported dysphagia and 76 % troublesome gas bloating, causing problems in 24 % of the patients. No association between different outcome variables and crural repair could be shown.

Conclusion:

Laparoscopic fundoplication can be done in a simple and fast way, with minimal morbidity, short hospital stay and without compromising outcome. Nevertheless, the operation is seldom without some sequel for the patient.
Adder Bites. A Report of 68 Cases
Authors: Grönlund J. , Vuori A. , Nieminen S.
Published: July 2017

Background and Aims:

The adder (Vipera Berus) is the only venomous snake that exists naturally in Scandinavia. The aim of this study is to estimate the severity of adder bites, to form a general picture of symptoms of bites and to find out how effective the present treatment methods of adder bites are.

Material and Methods:

68 true adder bites treated in Turku University Hospital during the years 1995–2000 were reviewed retrospectively.

Results:

There were no deaths in this material. A bite caused severe symptoms to 10 of the patients. The symptoms were moderate in 21 %, mild in 34 % and minor in 35 of the cases. Children under 10 years were the proportionally biggest age group and severe poisonings were most frequent among small children. Rapidly progressive oedema, gastrointestinal symptoms, hypotension and early leucocytosis were signs of more severe poisonings. Antivenom therapy with specific ovine Fab antivenom proved to be an effective and safe treatment in severe poisonings.

Conclusions:

An adder bite may also cause severe symptoms for adults. All patients should be observed at least few hours after the bite and parental fluid therapy should be started at an early stage. In the treatment of severe poisonings an antivenom therapy should be considered. Rapidly progressive symptoms and early leucocytosis may serve as a warning signal for higher probability of severe reactions.
Terror Bombing-Mechanisms, Consequences and Implications
Authors: Kluger Y. , Kashuk J. , Mayo A.
Published: July 2017

Our objective in this review is to describe the unique features of bombing injury and to outline some special elements of their management. This is to allow the timely improvement and adjustment of existing mass casualty protocols.

Forensic studies, detonation and explosion, mechanisms of injury in explosion and their bodily effects, chemical effects of the explosive, site of the explosion and the wounding potential, the Multidimensional Injury Pattern, diagnostic evaluation of Multidimensional Injury Pattern, and surgical and treatment dilemmas associated with it are described and discussed.
Epidemiology of Severely and Fatally Injured Patients in Western Part of Norway
Authors: Hansen K. S. , Morild I. , Engesæter L. B. , Viste A.
Published: July 2017

Background and Aims:

Analysis of the injury mechanism and characteristics of severely and fatally injured patients in the western part of Norway.

Material and Methods:

We did a prospective registration of all severely injured patients hospitalized during a three-year period. The files of severely injured patients that died at scene or during transport were retrospectively retrieved from the Forensic Department. A total of 558 patients with an Injury Severity Score > 15 were included.

Results:

Four-hundred-forty-four men (79.6 %) and 114 women (20.4 %) with a median age of 36 and 51.5 years respectively were included. The proportion of female patients older than 80 years were 19.3 % compared to 5.6 % for men. A total of 215 (38.5 %) patients died and 149 (69.3 %) of these patients died on scene or during transport. The incidence of severely injured patients in Hordaland County was 30 per 100 000 inhabitants per year. The incidence was lowest among children below 5 years (7/100 000/year) and highest among persons older than 80 years (95/100 000/year). Men had a 3.8 times greater risk of getting seriously injured compared to women. Road traffic accidents were the cause of the injuries in 235 (42.1%) patients and 35.8% of these patients died. A total of 215 (38.5 %) patients were injured due to falls and 30.2 % of these patients died. Patients who had sustained falls were significantly older than patents with other injury mechanisms (p < 0.001, CI = 13.0–20.2). The proportion of patients with penetrating injuries was 7.3 %.

Conclusion:

The incidence of severely injured patients was 30/100000/year. Men and elderly people had a higher risk of getting severely injured. Falls were the dominating injury mechanism among elderly.
Does Technical Failure of Revascularization during Coronary Artery Bypass Grafting Predict Severity of Poststernotomy Mediastinitis?
Authors: Mennander A. , Maaranen P. , Negre B. , Tarkka M.
Published: July 2017

Background and Aims:

To assess the impact of unsuccessful revascularization in relation to poststernotomy mediastinitis (PSM), which affects long-term outcome after coronary artery bypass grafting (CABG).

Material and Methods:

An active approach for the follow-up of PSM involved a step by step treatment protocol of conventional surgery and plastic reconstructive surgery. 47 patients treated for PSM after CABG were identified and further evaluated. Complete revascularization was considered unsuccessful when technical hazards were reported during CABG. When PSM subsided after thorough debridement and sternal refixation without plastic reconstructive surgery, such as omentoplasty or muscle transposition, PSM was categorized as mild PSM. If treatment required plastic reconstructive surgery, PSM was categorized as severe PSM. Preoperative coronary artery angiographic status and success of revascularization were compared to postoperative outcome in relation to mild and severe PSM.

Results:

36 patients suffered from mild PSM and 11 patients from severe PSM. Preoperative clinical status did not differ among patients. Two patients (4.3 %) died during hospitalization. The need for plastic reconstructive surgery was significant (p < 0.05) among patients with unsuccessful revascularization. 35 out of 41 patients (85 %) without problems of graft anastomosis during CABG (successful revascularization) were associated with mild PSM, whereas only 6 out of 41 patients (15 %) with successful revascularization during CABG required plastic reconstructive surgery (p < 0.05). Technical failure of graft anastomosis (3 cases) or poor outflow of internal thoracic artery (2 cases) were statistically associated with severe PSM.

Conclusion:

Technical failures of revascularization during CABG may delay recovery from PSM.
Endoscopic Therapy for Chronic Pancreatitis
Authors: Delhaye M. , Arvanitakis M. , Bali M. , Matos C. , Devière J.
Published: July 2017

When endoscopic therapy is used for the treatment of patients with painful chronic pancreatitis, extracorporeal shock wave lithotripsy (ESWL) can be proposed as a first-line approach when obstructive ductal stone(s) induce upstream dilation of the main pancreatic duct. Stone fragmentation by ESWL is followed by endoscopic ductal drainage using pancreatic sphincterotomy, fragmented stone(s) extraction, and pancreatic stenting in case of ductal stricture. After completion of endoscopic pancreatic ductal drainage, long-term clinical benefit can be expected for two thirds of the patients. Best clinical results are associated with absence or cessation of smoking and with early treatment in the course of chronic pancreatitis, while alcohol abuse increases the risks of diabetes, steatorrhea and mortality.

The complications of chronic pancreatitis are mainly the development of pseudocyst secondary to the downstream ductal obstruction, and biliary obstruction caused by fibrotic changes in the head of the pancreas. Successful endoscopic pseudocyst drainage is currently obtained in most patients, and carries a low complication rate. Biliary stenting is a safe and effective technique for the short-term treatment of symptomatic bile duct stricture due to chronic pancreatitis, but permanent resolution is obtained in only 25% of cases.

In conclusion, endoscopic management is now considered to be the preferred interventional treatment of chronic pancreatitis, for patients selected on the basis of the anatomical changes caused by the disease. This treatment is generally safe, minimally invasive, often effective for years, does not prevent further surgery, and can be repeated.
The Use of Methionine for Acute Paracetamol Poisoning
Authors: Crome P , Volans G N , Vale J A , Widdop B , Goulding R , Williams R S
Published: July 2017

Since September 1974 the London Centre of the National Poisons Information Service has advocated the use of methionine for acute paracetamol poisoning and this paper presents a preliminary report of its outcome.

Seventeen patients, all of whom had high plasma paracetamol levels, received oral methionine within ten hours of the ingestion of the overdose. Eleven of these patients suffered no hepatic damage, while the remaining six showed varying degrees of liver failure with a mean maximum aspartate aminotransferase (AST) of 1,098 iu/l. There were no deaths in this group. Among fourteen patients who had taken similar paracetamol overdoses and received no antidotal treatment, all developed liver damage and seven of these died. These two groups were not, however, accurately matched for dose of paracetamol, plasma paracetamol levels or interval before reaching hospital.

Comparison was therefore made with two other recently published series of untreated patients. A significant reduction was noted in the incidence of liver damage and in the mean maximum AST.

Although this survey was not controlled, it is suggested that oral methionine, which has a low incidence of side-effects, may be effective in reducing the incidence and severity of paracetamol-induced liver damage, provided the overdose is not massive.
The Theological Interpretation of Scripture: Recent Contributions By Stephen E. Fowl, Christopher R. Seitz and Francis Watson
Authors: Cummins S.A.
Published: July 2017

In the midst of the massive enterprise that is contemporary biblical scholar ship there has emerged in recent years an interest in recovering and rede ploying a distinctly theological approach to biblical interpretation. By way of introduction to certain significant aspects of this undertaking, this issue- orientated article considers the contribution of three important partici pants: Stephen E. Fowl, Christopher R. Seitz and Francis Watson. Matters under review include defining theological interpretation, its critique of cer tain historical-critical approaches, its attempts to work within a trinitarian framework, its concern to integrate the Old Testament more fully into a two-testament account of Scripture, and its interest in the role of the inter preting Christian community. In this way the article acknowledges and invites further engagement with an important and invigorating development within biblical and theological studies.
The Galilee and Jesus in Recent Research
Authors: Rapinchuk Mark
Published: July 2017

In the continuing study of the life and historical context of Jesus, many contemporary scholars have begun to focus attention on the region known as the Galilee. Since the Galilee was the location of much of Jesus' life and ministry, accurate information about this region is essential for an informed understanding of Jesus. The use of recent archaeological evidence along with the application of various sociological and economic models has pro duced differing reconstructions of the Galilee and, as a result, a variety of viewpoints regarding the teaching and intentions of Jesus. This essay, which is confined to the past two decades of research, presents an overview of the work of some of the leading scholars in this contemporary effort.
Madness in the Method? the Acts of the Apostles in Current Study
Authors: Penner Todd
Published: July 2017

Scholarship on the book of Acts frequently proceeds under the 'no final con flict' slogan when it comes to employing a diversity of methods. In this essay, however, some of the fundamental assumptions and approaches to Acts in recent scholarship are examined and challenged, raising questions related to the proliferation of method in New Testament and early Christian studies, the underlying methodological assumptions of particular interpre tive approaches, and the sublimation of theology and ideology in scholar ship. The past 15 years of Acts scholarship provides the context for this broad survey and interaction. The essential contours of the discussion are focused around matters related to genre, the nature of Acts as 'text', the book's connections to its broader socio-cultural and historical worlds, and, finally, to matters related to post-critical interactions with Acts. No easy solutions are offered in this essay; rather, the broad discussion of method in current Acts scholarship pushes for a return to greater methodological awareness and reflection in the discipline.
Textile Applications for EB/UV Curing
Authors: Fletcher P. Michael , Nablo Sam V.
Published: July 2017

The important fundamental features of both the electron beam and ultraviolet radiation processors are reviewed, highlighting the major advantages of each for the textile industry. The curing of flock adhesives and the graft modification of fibers and filaments for bulk and surface property enhancement are described as typical of the high speed performance available with modern electron beam equipment. Applications of ultraviolet curing to bonding enhancement on textiles and to surface coating such as leather and man-made fabrics, are reviewed. At the present time, the adoption of this non-polluting technology is particularly active in the printing industry as tougher pollution control legislation takes effect. Some data on its healthy growth rates worldwide are reviewed, and its importance for energy intensive industries, such as textile finishing, is discussed.
Age and Fitness Differences in the Effects of Posture and Exercise on Information Processing Speed
Authors: Woods Anita M. , Vercruyssen Max , Birren James E.
Published: July 2017

This experiment sought to determine if posture- and exercise-induced neuro-stimulation influences age differences in reaction (RT) and movement (MT) time, and whether obtained effects varied with physical fitness level. Thirty-six healthy male participants (18 young (19–29 yrs) and 18 old (60–69 yrs), with each group divided into the fit or unfit) performed both simple and two-choice visual reaction time tasks under six arousal/activation conditions: three postural changes (supine, sitting, standing) and three different relative workloads on a cycle ergometer (free pedaling, 20% HRRmax, 40% HRRmax). Consistently, RTs were slower for the older vs. young adults but the elderly performed fastest when Standing than when Sitting or Lying, whereas posture effects were negligible in the young. During exercise SRTs in the young and Old Fit were not greatly influenced by fitness level or arousal/activation condition, but the Old Unfit benefitted from moderate (20% HRRmax) exercise-induced neuromuscular activation thereby accounting for a portion of age-related cognitive slowing by providing evidence that the elderly function at a less activated (aroused) level than young adults and may benefit from circumstances which elevate these levels. An opposite pattern occurred in MTs for the Old Unfit - for both posture and exercise: increases in arousal/activation caused increases in MT but in a fashion not supporting an RT-MT tradeoff in response strategy. Posture and exercise does affect speed of response, and may reduce age differences especially for those who possess already slowed response latencies.
Designing Medication Instructions for Older Adults
Authors: Morrow Daniel , Leirer Von , Andrassy Jill
Published: July 2017

We examined if medication instructions were better remembered when organized in terms of older adults' pre-existing schemes for taking medication. A preliminary study suggested that older adults share a general scheme with medication information grouped into 3 categories: (a) General Information (e.g., medication purpose), (b) How to take (dose), and (c) Possible Outcomes (side-effects). In the present study, we investigated age differences in this scheme and in instruction recall. We also examined if individual differences in organization related to cognitive abilities, health care beliefs, and medication taking experience. For the most part, the results provided further evidence that older adults share a scheme for taking medication and revealed few age differences in this organization. Verbal ability was more important than health attitudes for predicting individual differences in instruction organization. Most important, older and younger subjects preferred and better remembered instructions that were organized in terms of their medication taking scheme.
Software Installation in a Distributed Computing Environment: Human Factors Issues and Methods
Authors: Farber Claudia G.
Published: July 2017

This paper explores the application of human factors methods to the design and documentation of software installation processes and procedures. The study analyzes the installation of a telecommunications operations support system in a workstation-based, distributed computing environment. The long-range goal of the endeavor is to produce usability objectives and guidelines that project teams can use in the development of software installation related procedures and user interfaces. The areas being studied include software installation planning, documentation, training, procedures, and customer support. Methods used include the development of user profiles, interviews with the system administrators, and field observations. Whereas the actual installation of the software proved to be relatively easy, the planning and pre-installation phases proved to be very complex and time-consuming. We explore some of the reasons for this and identify areas that need to be considered when developing software deployment plans and user interfaces.
Performance vs. Preference
Authors: Bailey Robert W.
Published: July 2017

One of the main tenets of most company-sponsored quality programs is that the customer is always right. Designers frequently evaluate the goodness of their systems by simply asking users whether or not they like the interface. The fallacy of this approach is that users genrally make judgements based on their “preferences” and tend to ignore the more important performance issues. System designers frequently use their own preferences to make decisions, and then make major inferences about how users will perform with their system.

Several past studies are reviewed to show that users can perform well and not like a system, or like a system and still not perform well. Two recent studies are reported showing a mismatch between designer's preferences for certain interface decisions, and measured user performance when using the resulting interfaces.

It is proposed that better user interfaces are possible if we clearly separate the performance and preference concepts, recognize the limitations of each, and work to optimize one or the other (there is usually not sufficient time to optimize both). The only way to ensure that systems will elicit acceptable levels of performance is to conduct performance-oriented usability tests.
Representing Examples in a User Interface Design Guidance System
Authors: Blatt Louis A. , Zacherl Anna , Jacobson Mark
Published: July 2017

Research shows that developers and designers alike use examples in their design process. However, the tools that developers and designers use are difficult to use because they provide few or no examples and require extensive reading and memorization. This study gave developers and designers a background questionnaire and asked them to design an interface for displaying and exploring user interface examples within a user interface design guidance system. Analysis of audio tape, screen layouts, and user and task profile data from the study provided a number of user interface requirements for systems that support the representation and use of user interface examples.
A Foot Operated Pc Pointer Positioning Device
Authors: Anderson Nancy S. , Sobiloff Blake , White Patricia , Pearson Glenn
Published: July 2017

The “mole” is a foot-operated input device for a computer which emulates a mouse in functionality. It is used to control the position of the pointer on a PC screen. The “mole” device studied in the present research is the second-generation version of the device which was developed by Pearson (1988). In Pearson's previous studies, (Pearson and Weiser 1988), he demonstrated that individuals unfamiliar with the “mole” could learn to use the device to hit small on-screen targets comparable in size to small font size characters. The present studies were designed to provide data for evaluation of both the second-generation device and its software. The first study tested the use of the “mole” in controlling the pointer to solve the problem of the Towers of Hanoi. The second study involved a short (60 second) tracking task at each of three different target sizes and three different target speeds. In the third study, six individuals each practiced for four hours using the foot control and the mouse in the same tracking tasks. The results thus far are encouraging in providing data that shows increases in performance over short (one hour) and long (four hour) periods of practice. After the short amount of practice, performance on the tracking tasks was as high as 89% and 90%; after long practice as high as 95%.
Ergonomic Test of the Kinesis Keyboard
Authors: Smith Wanda J. , Cronin Daniel T.
Published: July 2017

A comparative study was conducted to determine the differences in user muscle load, posture, performance and preferences of users for a new technology keyboard (the Kinesis) compared to a standard (traditional) keyboard. The study consisted of requiring 25 test subjects to key text and random letters for two hours on each keyboard. Results demonstrated that hand postures (deviation and extension) and muscle load were better on the Kinesis keyboard. Text entry throughput was greater on the traditional keyboard, although there was no significant difference in errors between the two keyboards. Subjects preferred the Kinesis keyboard for comfort and usability.
Spatial Orientation in Real and Virtual Worlds
Authors: Arthur E. J. , Hancock P. A. , Chrysler S. T.
Published: July 2017

Virtual environments promise an almost limitless vista of expansion for human capabilities. They are being touted as the interface of the future and have begun to generate an expectation of a revolution in human-computer interaction greater than any seen to date. Like much hyperbole that cascades around innovative technology, little is based in knowledge while much is based on expectation or sheer speculation. In previous work, we have examined some of the basic human factors questions about usability. Here we specifically examine the ability to reproduce a complex spatial layout of objects having experienced them under a variety of viewing conditions. Subjects learned the spatial layout of nine common objects arranged on a flat plane. Viewing conditions consisted of free binocular virtual, free binocular real, and monocular real. The first two allowed active exploration of the environment while the latter condition allowed only a single viewpoint. The dependent variables were mapping accuracy and triadic comparisons of relative inter-object distances. Mapping results showed a significant effect of viewing condition, where in contrast to expectations the single eye was superior to the virtual and real binocular conditions. Results for the triadic comparisons showed a significant interaction of gender by viewing condition. The spatial representation formed by using virtual reality appears equivalent to that of the representation with the actual objects. The are a number of implications of these data with respect to interface design, in particular the question of potential information overload in virtual interfaces.
Cognitive Performance of Individuals Using a Head—Mounted Display While Walking
Authors: Sampson James B.
Published: July 2017

Considerable research has been conducted on head or helmet-mounted displays (HMDs) for aviators, but little, if any, for ground soldiers. This study investigated the ability of individuals to perform combined tasks of walking over irregular terrain (simulated) and processing information from an HMD. Volunteers performed reaction time tasks while either standing or walking on a treadmill, with and without obstacles. Results show uniform effects of obstacles on three levels of cognitive difficulty. Walking on level ground with no obstacles had no more effect on information processing than merely standing, whereas minor and moderate levels of obstacle avoidance had equal impact. Spatial displays were easier than verbal and numeric displays during all levels of mobility. Subjective effort matched reaction time performance. Results support existing models of attention and will help provide guidance for unique applications for the ground combatant.
Analysis of Complexity in Nuclear Power Severe Accident Management
Authors: Mumaw Randall J. , Roth Emilie M. , Schoenfeld Isabelle
Published: July 2017

A model of decision making has been developed for nuclear power plant operations and has been previously applied to the analysis of performance during emergency operations. The model was extended to identify the cognitive skills required, the types of complexity that can arise, and the potential for human error in severe accident management (SAM). Twelve SAM scenarios were developed to aid in this analysis. Potential sources of complexity and error are described and illustrated, and implications for training cognitive skills are discussed.
Identification of Sounds with Multiple Timbres
Authors: Gerth Jeffrey M.
Published: July 2017

The present research examined identification of complex sounds created by simultaneously playing two or more component sounds in various combinations. Sixteen component sounds were used, created by imposing four distinct temporal patterns on four basic timbres, two musical timbres and two complex real-world timbres. In the present experiment, complex sounds were created by simultaneously playing one to four component sounds, each with a different timbre. Subjects heard a complex sound, followed by a second complex sound that always differed from the first by adding a component, deleting a component or substituting a component. Subjects indicated which component had been added, deleted, or substituted. Sound changes were identified with moderate accuracy (above 60 percent). The errors committed varied with temporal pattern, timbre, sound change and density. The analyses of identification confusions indicated that subjects identified the correct timbre of the sound change even when temporal patterning was confused. The finding that temporal patterns were confused largely within the sound category of the correct response limits the previous interpretation of other research, which found that similar temporal patterns are confusable even with differences in spectra. Results of the present investigation suggest that multiple, temporal patterns with varying timbres can be presented from a single physical location to convey a change in state or status of an informative sound source. Design contributions of the present research to auditory information systems such as virtual reality are discussed. For such an application, a combination of physical separation and multiple patterns with varying timbres could provide a coherent, yet informationally complex, auditory display.
Wheel Turning Strength for Four Wheel Designs
Authors: McMulkin Mark L. , Woldstad Jeffrey C. , McMahan Paul B. , Jones Timothy M.
Published: July 2017

This paper reports the results of an experiment to evaluate the isometric wheel turning strength of 12 male and 12 female subjects using four different wheel designs. Three of the wheels investigated were new designs developed specifically for this study, while the fourth was a wheel currently used on many railroad car hand brakes. The three new designs considered were a cylindrical tube (4.3 cm in diameter), a cylindrical tube (2.5 cm in diameter) with spheres mounted along the edge, and a circular zig-zag design. Strength data were collected using a mock-up of the ladder and platform arrangement found on most railroad hopper and box cars. The task simulated the final tightening exertion required to secure railroad car hand brakes. Strength capabilities were measured using two methods: 1) a three second average during a six-second trial; 2) the peak reached on a separate trial in which subjects did not sustain an exertion. Results showed that the torque generated by the subjects was highest for the zig-zag design, followed in order by the wheel with the spheres, the cylindrical wheel, and the standard wheel; average torque values were 191 Nm, 147 Nm, 132 Nm, and 95 Nm, respectively. The average strength values (three-second average) for six-second maximum exertions produced lower average torque values (122 Nm) than the ramp to maximum exertion (161 Nm).
Tracking Median Nerve Conduction as a Method of Early Detection of Carpal Tunnel Syndrome
Authors: Johnson Steven L. , Evans Bobby
Published: July 2017

Cumulative trauma disorders in general, and carpal tunnel syndrome (CTS), in particular, have been an increasingly costly problem for both the afflicted individual and the company that employs that individual. This research involved a longitudinal study of cumulative trauma in six poultry processing plants. The primary objective of this research was to evaluate the potential of a procedure that tracks changes in motor median nerve latencies as a method of early detection of carpal tunnel syndrome. Although there was a statistically significant difference between the average latencies of the non-symptomatic group and the symptomatic group, the use of motor median nerve latencies for predictive diagnostic purposes is definitely questionable. There was no systematic shift in latencies observed as a function of the time that the person had been performing processing tasks which are generally considered to be associated with CTS. A second important result was that the incidence rate of objectively evaluated CTS appears to be far lower than that generally reported in both the popular media and the research literature. Probably the most important conclusion of the study, however, was that the variation within people, over time, independent of exposure, can lead to serious misdiagnosis of CTS. These results and conclusions are very important for both assessing the magnitude of the problem of CTS, as well as questioning the efficacy of one of the most widely used criteria to justify CTS surgery.
The Effects of Extra Vehicular Activity (EVA) Gloves on Dexterity and Tactility
Authors: Bishu Ram R. , Klute Glenn , Kim Byungjoon
Published: July 2017

Human capabilities such as dexterity, manipulability, and tactile perception are unique and render the hand as a very versatile, effective and a multipurpose tool. This is especially true for unknown microgravity environments such as the EVA environment. Facilitation of these activities, with simultaneous protection from the cruel EVA environment are the two, often conflicting, objectives of glove design. The objective of this study was to assess the effects of EVA gloves at different pressures on human hand capabilities, A factorial experiment was performed in which three types of EVA gloves were tested at five pressure differentials. The independent variables tested in this experiment were gender, glove type, pressure differential, and glove make. Six subjects participated in an experiment where a number of dexterity measures, namely time to tie a rope, and the time to assemble a nut and bolt were recorded. Tactility was measured through a two point discrimination test. The results indicate that a) With EVA gloves there is a considerable reduction in dexterity, b) performance decrements increase with increasing pressure differential, and c) some interesting gender glove interactions were observed, some of which may have been due to the extent (or lack of) fit of the glove to the hand. The implications for the designer are discussed.
Development of a Pressure Related Assessment Model of Seating Discomfort
Authors: Shen Wenqi , Galer Ian A. R.
Published: July 2017

This study consisted of the development of a factor model and a sitting interface pressure related assessment model of sitting discomfort, based on an extensive literature review. The factor model identified the force applied on the sitter's body as one of the main factors causing seating discomfort. The assessment model proposed that sitting discomfort mainly arises from feelings in the lumbar and buttock areas, and that local discomfort either depends upon or, is reflected by, the interface pressure. A pilot experiment was conducted to explore the utility of the assessment model by change of postural angles. Eleven subjects attended a 40 min sitting session. The independent variables were seat angle and seat-to-backrest angle. A pressure measuring device was used to record interface pressure between the subject and a prototype seat surface. A general comfort scale was administered after each pressure measurement. Results showed that all pressure measures were sensitive to postural changes of varied angulation, and that subjective ratings of comfort correlated with pressure measures, especially maximum pressure, average pressure ratio and maximum pressure gradient. Evidence from the pilot suggested that the model may have utility and eventually be used to assess seating discomfort.
Performance Enhancement and Accident Reduction in Complex Systems: Perspectives and a Research Program
Authors: Caldwell Barrett S. , Coury Bruce G. , Moray Neville , Meshkati Najmedin , Price Harold E. (Smoke)
Published: July 2017

Accidents in complex systems seldom arise from a single source, and are most often the result of multiple factors occurring at different levels of the system. Understanding the “systems” aspects of human performance (and performance error) in complex systems is a necessary part of any effort to avoid serious mishaps due to human error. This panel is intended to coincide with the development of a major research effort at the University of Wisconsin to address these issues. The Center for Human Performance in Complex Systems will apply the disciplines of systems engineering and ergonomics design to improve complex systems processes from the perspective of human performance. The purpose of this panel is to foster and demonstrate the Center's interest in bringing together a variety of perspectives and expertise bases to improve the overall quality and breadth of its activities. Each of the participants has a longstanding interest in improving the quality of human performance in complex and critical systems environments. Although they cannot represent the entire spectrum of relevant disciplines and perspectives of ergonomics and systems analysis, they provide a balance of insights, experience, and enthusiasm. This balance is essential to improving our understanding of factors affecting complex socio-technical systems, and implementing strategies to prevent and ameliorate the effects of system degradation and breakdown.
Process Safety Management System Performance Measures for the Chemical Industry
Authors: Connelly Edward
Published: July 2017

The Center for Chemical Process Safety of the American Institute of Chemical Engineers has developed a twelve-element model management system for process safety. Concord has worked with CCPS to develop performance measures for two of the elements, namely “Management of Change” and “Training”. A unique feature of the measures is that they continuously assess the performance of the elements, a feature somewhat analogous to the control of a plant. This contrasts with an audit evaluation which captures a snapshot of the management system performance at a particular instant of time.

Of special interest here is the method used to build the measures which employed chemical plant process safety experts performing the functions for which they are accepted as experts. For instance, analysis of the management systems used a method well known to chemical engineers for assessing chemical process safety, the Hazard and Operability Study (HAZOP) (AIChE/CCPS 1985) process. Further, synthesis of the performance measures employed process safety experts in a role they perform in their professions - assessment of the level of performance of various demonstrations of process safety management systems. This methodology is believed to be a reliable way of obtaining information from experts. That method is described in this paper.
Physical and Psychological Factors in Perceived Safety: A Macroergonomic Case Study
Authors: Imada Andrew S. , Hubert Roy J.
Published: July 2017

This paper describes on-going efforts to reduce real and perceived safety risks in a large newspaper publisher. These risks have been traditionally treated by analysis and remediation of physical conditions exclusively. This case illustrates how psychological and organizational factors can alter perceptions of unsafe conditions. Organizational culture, attitudes and affective states appear to influence perceptions of risk and harm. A macroergonomic analysis and participatory approach have been effective in reducing complaints and costs to date.
Assessing Driver Acceptance of IVHS Components
Authors: Kantowitz Barry H. , Becker Curtis A. , Barlow S. Todd
Published: July 2017

From a human factors perspective, ATIS and CVO are key components of IVHS. But impressive technology does not guarantee consumer acceptance. Several issues concerning acceptance of new technology are discussed including product characteristics, consumer characteristics, and implications for CVO. Two experiments that evaluate driver acceptance are described.