bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Pedicled Gastrocnemius Flap in Complicated Total Knee Arthroplasty
Authors: Papp A. , Kettunen J. , Miettinen H.
Published: July 2017

Background and Aims:

The aim of this study was to evaluate the results of complicated total knee arthroplasty operations treated with radical wound revision and a pedicled gastrocnemius muscle flap.

Material and Methods:

Retrospective analysis in a university hospital during a five-year-period.

Results:

Wound revision, debridement of the knee joint, replacing tibial plastics and a unilateral pedicled gastrocnemius muscle flap operation was performed to 10 patients after complicated total knee arthroplasty. After a median follow up time of 11.5 months 8/10 total knee arthroplasty joints were saved.

Conclusions:

As much as 80 % of patients could save their knee joint with this treatment protocol. Treatment of this problem needs good collaboration with orthopaedic and plastic surgeons.
The Epidemiology and Treatment Patterns of Postoperative Adhesion Induced Intestinal Obstruction in Varsinais-Suomi Hospital District
Authors: Kössi J. , Salminen P. , Laato M.
Published: July 2017

Background and Aims:

The epidemiology and treatment patterns of postoperative adhesion induced intestinal obstruction have been poorly investigated in Finland. This study evaluated the epidemiology and treatment patterns of postoperative adhesion induced intestinal obstruction in a well defined geographical area (Hospital District).

Material and Methods:

All inpatient episodes between 1.1.1999 and 31.12.1999 due to postoperative adhesion induced intestinal obstruction in Varsinais-Suomi Hospital District were evaluated retrospectively using individual patient records.

Results:

123 hospitalizations due to postoperative adhesion-related intestinal obstruction were observed during the study period. The total number of preceding operations was 176 considering altogether 101 patients. The most prevalent single initial operations causing adhesion induced intestinal obstruction were colorectal, upper abdominal, and female reproductive system procedures. Of all treatment episodes 32 % were operative and mortality was 2 %. The median days of hospital stay (range) of all inpatient episodes, operative episodes, and conservative episodes were 6 (1–58), 11 (2–34) and 4 (1–58), respectively. Patient dependent factors associated with increased likelihood to operative treatment of obstruction were: female gender (40 % in females vs 23 in males, P = 0.042) and previous gynaecological surgery (70 % of the patients, P = 0.032). Intraoperative findings were obstruction in 70 %, strangulation in 20 %, necrosis in 8 %, and perforation in 2 % of operations. Bowel resection was needed in 38 % of operations. Preceding gynaecological surgery increased the likelihood of bowel strangulation as an intraoperative finding.

Conclusion:

The epidemiology, treatment patterns and results of postoperative adhesion induced intestinal obstruction are of the average international level in the Varsinais-Suomi Hospital District. The treatment patterns among the different hospitals in the Hospital District are similar. Female gender is associated with increased risk for operative treatment of adhesive obstruction. Previous gynaecological surgery increases the likelihood of operative treatment and complicated obstruction.
The Role of Biofeedback Therapy in Functional Proctologic Disorders
Authors: Kairaluoma M. , Raivio P. , Kupila J. , Aarnio M. , Kellokumpu I.
Published: July 2017

Background and Aims:

The question which patients with functional proctologic disorders truly benefit from the biofeedback has not been equivocally resolved. The aim of this study was to assess our results of biofeedback therapy in patients with anal incontinence or constipation.

Material and Methods:

Fifty-two consecutive patients who were treated with biofeedback therapy between January 1998 and March 2002 were studied. Data was collected from our proctologic database.

Results:

Of the twenty-two patients with anal incontinence who underwent biofeedback therapy during the study period, twenty patients had incontinence affecting quality of life. Twelve patients (60 percent) benefited from biofeedback as judged by improvement of incontinence symptoms affecting quality of life; all four patients with partial sphincter defects, three out of four patients after secondary repair, three out of five patients with persistent incontinence after rectal prolapse surgery and two out of seven patients having idiopathic incontinence. Of the thirty patients who underwent biofeedback therapy for constipation, twenty-five had intractable symptoms of constipation. Constipation resolved in sixteen patients (64 percent); in thirteen out of nineteen (68 percent) of those with pelvic floor dysfunction (PFD) and in three out of six (50 percent) having combined PFD and slow transit constipation. In patients with PFD constipation was resolved in ten out of thirteen patients (77 percent) with anismus but in only three out of six (50 percent) having other causes.

Conclusions:

Biofeedback therapy improves incontinence after sphincter repairs and in patients with partial external sphincter defects, but does not improve idiopathic incontinence. Biofeedback is also effective in patients with constipation, especially when anismus is the only cause for symptoms of constipation and difficult evacuation.
Unstable Trochanteric Fractures Augmented with Calcium Phosphate Cement
Authors: Mattsson P. , Larsson S.
Published: July 2017

Background and Aims:

Internally fixed unstable trochanteric fractures might be difficult to retain in position during healing. Secondary displacement might lead to malunion and poor functional result. The aim with this study was to measure whether augmentation with resorbable calcium-phosphate cement could improve fracture stability as shown in biomechanical studies.

Material and Methods:

26 ambulatory patients with an unstable trochanteric fracture were randomized to treatment with a sliding screw device alone (Controls) or the same device combined with calcium-phosphate cement for augmentation (Augmented). All patients were allowed unrestricted weight bearing after surgery. Fracture movement was measured with radiostereometry (RSA) at 1 and 6 weeks and at 6 months.

Results:

Two patients died during the study period due to unrelated causes and another three were excluded due to technical problems with the RSA in two and concomitant illness in one. 21 patients (11 Augmented and 10 Controls) were followed according to the study protocol. At 1 week the augmented fractures had moved on average 1.9 ± 1.7 mm while movement in the controls was 4.0 ± 2.4 mm (p < 0.05). The average total movement from the day after surgery until 6 months, when all fractures had healed, was 7.8 ± 6.2 mm for the augmented fractures and 13.2 ± 4.3 mm for the controls (p < 0.05). Varus angulation was the most pronounced rotational movement for both groups although augmented fractures revealed less varus angulation compared with controls at all time points. Rotation around the longitudinal and transversal axes were small with no significant differences between treatment groups.

Conclusion:

Augmentation with calcium-phosphate cement improved the stability of unstable trochanteric fractures fixed with a sliding screw device. The improvement was most pronounced for varus angulation and lateral and distal migration of the head and neck fragment.
Endocrine Pancreatic Tumors
Authors: Lairmore T. C. , Moley J. F.
Published: July 2017

Neuroendocrine tumors of the pancreas are rare neoplasms that may arise sporadically or in association with a hereditary endocrine neoplasia syndrome. Effective management requires directed biochemical testing, careful choice of preoperative imaging tests, and complete pancreatic exploration by an experienced endocrine surgeon utilizing intraoperative ultrasound. Pancreatic endocrine tumors arising in the familial setting present unique diagnostic and therapeutic dilemmas.
Mechanisms of Acinar Cell Injury in Acute Pancreatitis
Authors: Raraty M. G. T. , Murphy J. A. , McLoughlin E. , Smith D. , Criddle D. , Sutton R.
Published: July 2017

Acute pancreatitis has many causes, all leading to a common pathway of changes within the pancreatic acinar cell. Key amongst these changes is premature intracellular activation of digestive enzymes but this is also accompanied by the appearance of cytosolic vacuoles, co-localization of digestive and lysosomal enzymes, activation of NF-kB, and release of pro-inflammatory cytokines. The exact mechanism responsible for enzyme activation remains the subject of much research effort and not a little debate, however it is clear that all of these changes are triggered by an abnormal, sustained rise in cytosolic calcium concentration, which is itself dependent both on release of calcium from endoplasmic reticulum stores and uptake from the extracellular milieu. Activated enzymes are directly damaging to the acinar cell themselves, but recruitment of circulating neutrophils leads to further cellular damage. Cytokines and neutrophil activation are also responsible for the systemic inflammatory response typically seen in severe acute pancreatitis.
The Differentiation between Pancreatic Neoplastic Cysts and Pancreatic Pseudocyst
Authors: Sand J. , Nordback I.
Published: July 2017

The number of small and often asymptomatic cystic lesions detected in pancreas has increased during the last decade. Historically the vast majority of the pancreatic cystic lesions were considered pseudocysts, but in recent series the incidence of various neoplastic cysts, such as intraductal papillary mucinous neoplasm, serous cystadenomas and cystic endocrine tumours, has increased. The possible malignant potential in these cystic neoplasms warrants careful diagnostic workup to choose the optimal treatment for each patient. Patient's age, symptoms and a possible history of acute or chronic pancreatitis with known aetiology together with high quality imaging studies are important in the differential diagnosis between pseudocysts and neoplastic cysts. Endoscopic ultrasound, cyst fluid analysis and positron emission tomography may be used in selected patients, but the accuracy of these methods needs further investigation.
Role of Care Pathways in Changing Psychiatric Practice: Action Research
Authors: Jones Adrian
Published: July 2017

The uses of care pathways have become topical in the reformed National Health Service and may have relevance for psychiatric practice. There have been very few studies exploring the development of mental health care pathways. In this study, action research methods were used to discover the problems and challenges of developing a care pathway for people suffering from schizophrenia. In this article, some detail on how a care pathway challenged the culture and myths of multidisciplinary working in psychiatric care is presented.
General Practitioner's Back Pain Referrals: Easing the Load?
Authors: Abraham Alwyn , Russell Tom
Published: July 2017

The aim of this study was to assess concordance in the assessment of back pain between general practitioners (GPs) in the south-east of Scotland and specialist neurosurgical consultants based at the Western General Hospital in Edinburgh. Specialists agreed with the GP's working diagnosis of surgical pathology (or absence of a surgical diagnosis) in almost 85% of all patients referred to the specialists by the GPs for further management. Absence of surgical pathology was agreed on by the GPs and specialist back surgeons in 25% of all referrals. These figures indicate that modern back pain management needs to encompass specialists other than those simply offering surgical relief. The integrated care pathway tool offers an opportunity for a truly integrated approach to all stages of back pain management.
Is Everything in the Garden Rosy? An Integrated Care Pathway for Acute Inpatient Mental Health Care, from Development to Evaluation: Part 2
Authors: Grant Robert , Hall Julie , Pritlove Roger
Published: July 2017

This is the second paper of two, which considers the development, use and evaluation of an integrated care pathway (ICP) for acute inpatient mental health care. This paper reports an evaluation that was carried out to measure the impact of an ICP (described in Part 1) on the interventions it was designed to guide. The methodology used was pre- and post-ICP comparison of activities/care recorded in health-care records using delineating measures. Data were gathered from the notes of 23 service-users who had two inpatient stays within a year, one pre-ICP and one post-ICP. The findings suggested an overall improved provision of interventions, although as the ICP progressed the likelihood of receiving interventions fell. Three specific aspects were not affected by the ICP, these were giving information about observation levels to service-users, care planning and medical interventions. These issues are discussed and the conclusion raise implications for further ICP development and implementation.
Polyurethane Foam as an Integral “Core” Component of Automotive Headliner
Authors: Dolgopolsky I. , Duley J. A.
Published: July 2017

Automotive headliner technology today consists of designing and manufacturing complex sandwich constructions with decorative, structural, acoustical, and energy-absorbing functions. The use of polyurethane semi-flexible foam as a core material for headliner construction has witnessed a substantial global increase. Further sophistication of headliner construction imposes additional demands requiring high performance semi-rigid foam.

This paper discusses the desirable properties to be achieved, material characteristics, and processing issues. An ideal headliner foam should combine high stiffness and rigidity, low density, specific and uniform airflow, acoustical properties, dimensional stability over the wide range of temperatures, and thermoformability. Design of headliner semi-flexible (semi-rigid) polyurethane foam requires more innovative approaches than those used for conventional foams. Introducing foam into headliners puts additional constraints on the foam, due to the variety of composite constructions and methods of headliner manufacturing.

Optimal foam characteristics for headliner fabrication cannot always be easily defined a priori. Results derived from customary test methods and additional testing, in particular—thermoanalytical techniques such as DMA—can be used for foam characterization and headliner processing optimization.

Future demands for headliner foam that can be foreseen are a lower weight with increased stiffness, recyclability, energy management, shorter processing cycle, and reduced overall cost.
When Lips and Voice Disagree: Determining the Practical Limits and Consequences of Visual-Auditory Asynchroity
Authors: Paul Lawrence M.
Published: July 2017

This talk explores the limits and costs of the visual-auditory asynchrony that occurs in video teleconferencing systems using separate transmission paths for the video and audio signals. After a brief review of video teleconferencing, the special problem of asynchrony in two-path systems is developed, and the small quantity of directly applicable research is reviewed. The two human factors questions which needed to be answered were: 1) What are the “just tolerable” limits of asynchrony?, and 2) What is the cost in terms of misperceptions of living with asynchrony? The experiment had nine participants determine their “just tolerable” asynchrony limits with video first and with audio first, and their “perfect synchrony” point. The average “just tolerable” limit with video preceding audio was 104 msec with a small variability. Very surprisingly, the “just tolerable” limit with audio first was at least 160 msec. Thus, common wisdom not withstanding, it is apparently easier to live with the audio preceding the video. Research is currently underway to measure the cost of living with asynchrony. MacDonald and McGurk, 1978, found that particular combinations of spoken and seen syllables led to the perception of completely different syllables. The present research extends MacDonald and McGurk' work to word pairs with first syllables from the corresponding special syllable pairs to determine if living with asynchrony necessarily means living with misperceptions in addition to just simple “annoyance”.
Parameters of Information-Rich Auditory Announcements
Authors: Mulligan R. M. , Whitten W. B. , Tsao Y-C.
Published: July 2017

An investigation of factors influencing the effectiveness of brief (< 5 minutes), information-rich auditory-announcements began with a literature review that identified several potentially important variables. Next, an initial experiment examined the relative importance of some of these variables in the context of a prototype audiotex application. The results of this study allowed tentative conclusions to be made about the influence of several announcement parameters including duration, speech rate, amount of information, and linguistic complexity, on memory and preference for announcements. Finally, a follow-up experiment focused on the speech rate variable and on the use of time-compressed speech to increase the efficiency of information acquisition. Results of this study indicated that although learning efficiency can be significantly increased by accelerating speech to 1.5x normal rate, listeners prefer a speech rate closer to normal.
The Impact of Age on Visual Search Performance
Authors: Manivannan P. , Czaja Sara , Drury Colin , Ip Chi Ming
Published: July 2017

Visual search is an important component of many real world tasks such as industrial inspection and driving. Several studies have shown that age has an impact on visual search performance. In general older people demonstrate poorer performance on such tasks as compared to younger people. However, there is controversy regarding the source of the age-performance effect. The objective of this study was to examine the relationship between component abilities and visual search performance, in order to identify the locus of age-related performance differences. Six abilities including reaction time, working memory, selective attention and spatial localization were identified as important components of visual search performance. Thirty-two subjects ranging in age from 18 - 84 years, categorized in three different age groups (young, middle, and older) participated in the study. Their component abilities were measured and they performed a visual search task. The visual search task varied in complexity in terms of type of targets detected. Significant relationships were found between some of the component skills and search performance. Significant age effects were also observed. A model was developed using hierarchical multiple linear regression to explain the variance in search performance. Results indicated that reaction time, selective attention, and age were important predictors of search performance with reaction time and selective attention accounting for most of the variance.
Managing User Interface Design using Concurrent Engineering
Authors: Chao Betty P.
Published: July 2017

A well-designed user interface is recognized as a benchmark for determining the success of a software product. The proliferation of user interface design guidelines, standards, prototyping tools, and techniques are indicative of the importance placed on quality user interfaces. However, even with the availability of the latest information, tools, and human factors practitioners to software developers, sub-optimal interfaces may result. This is because within a large multidisciplinary software design team, issues such as communication, responsibilities, and cost and schedule constraints may override the usability issues. This paper describes the implementation of concurrent engineering, used to successfully develop user interfaces for a large, complex system. Success is expressed in terms of quality and consistent user interfaces, positive influence of human factors on software development, and customer satisfaction.
Spatial Layout of Displayed Information: Three Steps toward Developing Quantitative Models
Authors: Vincow Michelle A. , Wickens Christopher D.
Published: July 2017

Subjects viewed a series of alphanumeric tables containing information regarding the attributes (cost, amount, etc.) of different objects (utilities such as gas and electricity). They answered questions that required them to locate specific pieces of information in the table, perform simple integration between pieces, or complex integration (division, multiplication), and information for questions was either located within a table panel (close separation) or between panels (distant separation). The table was either organized by objects within attributes, or attributes within objects. Table organization had no effect on response time or accuracy. However, accuracy suffered with increased separation, but only for the complex integration questions, a finding that implicates the interference between visual search and the working memory demands of information integration. A computational model of the mental operations required for task performance accounted for 69% of the variance in response time, and provides a useful basis for developing more elaborate models of display layout.
Decision Errors in the Cockpit
Authors: Orasanu Judith , Dismukes R. Key , Fischer Ute
Published: July 2017

This paper describes an effort to understand the nature of decision tasks in the cockpit, their underlying cognitive requirements, the types of errors associated with each, and how crews can best be trained or aided. A scheme based on cue clarity and response availability was used to identify the cognitive requirements associated with classes of decision situations and to predict types of errors. Data from flight crews in full-mission simulators and from NTSB accident reports were analyzed to validate the analytical scheme.
Noise and Emergent Features in Integrated Displays
Authors: Lewis Michael , Kim Hanhwe
Published: July 2017

Process displays with the same perceptual resolution do the same job of conveying a process state to an operator. It is primarily the ability to convey relations and constraints that distinguishes good displays from poor ones. Object displays solve this problem by shifting monitoring to a situation unconstrainted by the system's architecture, allowing the integration of parameters as features of a geometric object. In doing so, however, object displays sacrifice the ability to provide a context giving meaning to these relations. The emergent features approach does not rely on any particular form of representation, but identifies the discriminations among process states which must be made to perform a task then searches for some representation which makes these discriminations perceptually salient. A series of experiments (Wickens 1986, Carswell – Wickens 1987, Sanderson et al. 1989) have compared a triangle object display with conventional bar chart displays with disparate results. The present experiment investigates the effects of noise on monitoring performance for these two display formats and finds that the relative advantages of the input-output-input barchart are eliminated under high noise conditions.
Movement Time to an Array of Controls
Authors: Hoffmann Errol R.
Published: July 2017

Two tasks in which subjects aim at an array of devices were considered: moving to one knob within an array and moving the finger on a numeric keypad. It was shown by a mathematical model based on Fitts' law, that when the array density is specified for the array of knobs or keys, there is an optimum control size for minimum movement time. The theoretical result was obtained by considering a two-element model of the movement, the first being a reach to the general location of the control and the second describing the insertion of the fingers into the space between adjacent controls. As the first element has a movement time that decreases with increase of control size and the second a time increasing with control size, there is an optimum control size where the movement time is a minimum.
A Hand Posture Measurement System for Evaluating Manual Tool Tasks
Authors: Yun Myung Hwan
Published: July 2017

A measurement system of describing the loads in the hand during manual tool tasks is presented. The system consists of a network of force sensitive resistors and an angle transducer glove (CybergloveTM, Virtual Technologies). Eighteen different cylindrical grip tasks for six subjects were studied using the developed measurement system. Fourteen flexion and abduction angles and the ten force data from ten locations of the hand was measured for the sixteen tool tasks. The results showed that the flexion angle for the five fingers decreased with increasing grip span. Grip force was mainly controlled by the opposing action of the thumb and the index finger. The contribution of the thumb and index finger force to the total grip force was greater when the grip size was increased. A regression approach to estimate the joint flexion angle based on the hand anthropometry and grip characteristics showed significant results. It was possible to use the data from the measurement system as an input to the calculation of the joint torques and moments in the finger joints. The simultaneous measurement system of the finger joint angles and finger forces was useful in collecting the information on the hand force postures during the duration of the task. The system was also useful in providing detailed input data for the biomechanical analysis of the hand.
Feasibility of Using the Gap Detection Tactility Test for Monitoring Cutaneous Sensory Deficits
Authors: Jeng One-Jang , Radwin Robert G.
Published: July 2017

Periodic worker monitoring methods are needed for detecting cumulative trauma disorders, such as carpal tunnel syndrome (CTS), in the early stages. An experiment was conducted for studying the feasibility of using a new aesthesiometer for periodically measuring functional tactile sensitivity. It was conducted to investigate gap detection sensory threshold differences between five normal subjects and seven subjects diagnosed having CTS. The gap detection test was used because of its functional resemblance to many work-related activities. Average gap detection sensory threshold using the index finger was 0.21 mm (SD = 0.14 mm) for the normal subjects and increased 114% to 0.45 mm (SD = 0.16 mm) for the CTS subjects when finger probing was allowed. Average gap detection sensory threshold using the index finger was 1.57 mm (SD = 0.56 mm) for the normal subjects and increased 61% to 2.53 mm (SD = 0.82 mm) for the CTS subjects when finger probing was not allowed. The results suggest that people suffering from CTS may experience similar functional deficits in daily living and work activities. A strong relationship was also observed between electrophysiologic variables and the gap detection sensory thresholds when both the CTS and normal hands were pooled. This suggests that performance in the gap detection test might measure the level of median nerve function in CTS.
Psychophysical Assessment of Simulated Assembly Line Work: Combinations of Transferring and Screw Driving Tasks
Authors: Krawczyk Sheila , Armstrong Thomas J. , Snook Stover H.
Published: July 2017

Upper extremity cumulative trauma disorders have been linked to the repeated and/or forceful exertions and/or awkward postures sometimes required by upper extremity intensive work. The combined effect of these physical stressors can be evaluated using psychophysical methods. The purpose of this study was to examine different combinations of repetitive upper extremity work using established psychophysical methods to determine design recommendations for upper extremity tasks. The tasks studied simulated assembly line type work where a part is transferred from a storage bin and attached with a pneumatic tool to another larger part.

Twenty-four experienced industrial workers performed five combination tasks of transferring an object along a conveyor and screw driving using a pistol shaped pneumatic screwdriver: 100% transfer; 75% transfer and 25% screw drive; 50% transfer and 50% screw drive; 25% transfer and 75% screw drive; and 100% screw drive. The cycle time was 24 seconds. Each combination task was performed for an hour. Overall, transferring, and screw driving perceived exertions were measured using 10 cm visual analog scales (VAS) with verbal descriptions at the endpoints. The left and right sides corresponded to “Easiest imaginable work” at 0 cm, and “Hardest imaginable work” at 10 cm, respectively. Body part discomfort surveys were utilized to assess discomfort from each of the tasks.

The overall perceived exertion (VAS) rating increased, as the task utilized more of one upper extremity than the other and involved more of either the transferring or screw driving tasks. The mean overall VAS ratings were 5.3, 4.3, 3.5, 4.4, and 5.3 for the five combination tasks, respectively. As the transferring (or screw driving) proportion of the task increased, the transferring (or screw driving) VAS increased. A repeated measures ANOVA showed that the combination task effect was significant (p<0.01). This psychophysical data can provide guidance in the analysis and design of upper extremity work. Since less varied work which utilized more of one upper extremity than the other had greater overall perceived exertion, upper extremity tasks should be designed as varied as possible utilizing as many body parts as possible. Body part discomfort surveys verified that this decreased discomfort severity and distributed the discomfort more evenly throughout the different body parts. This study provides evidence of the positive effects of work enlargement.
What Difference Can the Data Make?
Authors: Romero H. A. , Ostrom L. T. , Wilhelmsen C. A.
Published: July 2017

The anthropometric data which is readily available to the ergonomic practitioner contains gaps in the statures of individuals covered. This study fills in those gaps by analyzing the data sources available to interpolate the dimensions for those statures not represented. The interpolation method used was linear regression relating a specific dimension to the standing stature of the individual. Additionally, this paper compares several sources of data to demonstrate significant differences. Both these pieces of information are important to the practitioner. By filling in the gaps, the practitioner is provided with initial quantitative reference points for individuals when properly arranging a workstation. Currently, only qualitative information is provided concerning optimum workstation design for individuals not represented in the data sources. By demonstrating the lack of a significant difference between data sources, the practitioner may use whichever source is readily available. The results show a significant relationship between the individual's stature and eight different workstation measurements. Finally, there is no significant difference between the data sources examined.
Human Error in Health Care Delivery: Cases, Causes and Correction
Authors: Van Cott Harold P.
Published: July 2017

Health care delivery is viewed as a complex, people-intensive system whose reliability depends on human performance. Examples of the human errors that occur in health care are described, and human factors interventions and remedies that might be taken to improve reliability and safety are suggested.
Diagnosing Macroergonomic Problems: A Case Study in the Use of Concept Mapping for TQM Initiatives
Authors: Zaff Brian S. , Hughes Edward R. , McNeese Michael D. , Brown Clifford E. , Citera Maryalice
Published: July 2017

This paper presents the results from a case study involving the use of concept mapping in a Total Quality Management (TQM) program. Concept mapping is a knowledge acquisition technique that has proven successful in a variety of instances when it was necessary to elicit information directly from domain experts and communicate that information to other individuals needing the information. The concept mapping technique produces, during the course of an interview, a graphical representation that becomes a communications medium through which ideas can be easily shared in a group setting. In TQM programs it may be necessary to elicit detailed information from employees about the nature of their work domain and about the various problems they may be encountering. The success of TQM programs often depends on establishing open lines of communications through which employees can articulate their concerns and upon the ability of TQM team members to uncover hard-to-detect problems. Concept mapping proved successful in the TQM setting. The concept mapping technique facilitated the uncovering of insights that were not obvious to the TQM team during their initial brainstorming sessions or from the use of a survey. In addition it appears that the concept mapping technique has other significant TQM advantages over and above its utility as a knowledge elicitation technique. Concept mapping, not only facilitates user-centered knowledge acquisition, but also appears useful as a means of facilitating team-building.
A compensatory rest break system for VDT operators
Authors: Henning Robert A. , Kissel George V. , Maynard Douglas C.
Published: July 2017

Short rest breaks at 10 or 15-min intervals are being proposed as a means to moderate health problems and discomfort associated with continuous VDT use. This laboratory study evaluated an alternative to administering frequent breaks on a regimented schedule; short breaks were not administered unless the operator's spontaneous rest pauses were insufficient. Undergraduate volunteer typists (N=38) were assigned to one of two conditions: regimented (20-sec breaks every 5 min), or compensatory (20-sec breaks every 5 min only if the spontaneous pauses did not total 20 sec). Participants entered lines of randomized upper and lower-case characters that appeared on their VDT during a 48-min work period. Mood and musculoskeletal discomfort were assessed before and after the work period, followed by a questionnaire about the break system. Performance measures included keystroke output, error rate, and correction rate (backspace use). Large pre-to-post work period differences in both mood and musculoskeletal discomfort were found. Both the number and length of computer-administered breaks decreased in the compensatory condition. Back discomfort was lower in the compensatory condition, however, no differences in performance, mood, nor acceptance of the break system were found. These results indicate that rest breaks administered on a compensatory basis during repetitive computer work can eliminate unnecessary breaks and improve well-being without being any more disruptive to work than regimented breaks.
Human Factoring the Procedures Element in a Complex Manufacturing System
Authors: Caccamise D. J. , Mecherikoff M.
Published: July 2017

As a result of Human Factors evaluations of procedures associated with incidents at Rocky Flats Plant (RFP) it was determined that the existing procedure format created significant opportunities for confusion in their attempt to convey information about a work process. For instance, there was no mechanism to clearly identify the participants and their roles during the Instructions portion of the procedure. In addition, procedure authors frequently used complex logic to convey a series of contingent actions within steps. It was also difficult to discern the actual procedure steps from other types of information in the procedure. These and other inadequacies prompted the Human Factors Engineering (HFE) department to propose solutions to these problems that followed well-researched principles of cognitive psychology, dealing with how humans process information. Format and style contribute to procedure usability, and therefore to safety and efficiency in operations governed by the procedures. Since it was difficult to tie specific performance failures to specific format and style characteristics and thereby clearly define costs and benefits, it was difficult on that basis to sell the idea that changes in procedure format and style were really necessary to improve safety and efficiency. In addition, we found that the socio-political systems governing this process, particularly at the subprocess interface level, were not functioning efficiently. Both the technological aspects of the process and the socio-political aspects were contributing to waste and considerable re-work. Fixing the customer feedback loop to the process owners not only minimized re-work and waste, but also provided the data to persuade subprocess owners to make the necessary changes that heretofore were being met with great resistance.
Procedures Software Tool Requirements Analysis
Authors: McCallum Marvin C. , Morgan Jennifer , Yasutake Joseph Y. , Isoda Hachiro
Published: July 2017

This paper describes a recently completed project conducted to identify functional requirements and software features of a Procedure Software Tool (PST) to be used as an aid in the preparation of written maintenance procedures in nuclear power plants. Results discussed include an overview of functional requirements and software features that address problems in procedure use and the process of procedure development. An overview of the recommended PST development process is also provided, along with a summary of the estimated benefits of PST development. Finally, potential applications in the nuclear industry, as well as other industries, are discussed.
Verification and Validation of Complex Systems: Human Factors Issues
Authors: Wise John A. , Hopkin V. David , Gibson Richard S. , Stager Paul , Stubler William F.
Published: July 2017

The issue of verifying and validating complex systems based on human factors criteria is becoming widely recognized. The need has become particularity significant with the development on the highly automated systems currently being developed for the new air traffic control systems around the world. This panel discusses several issues that have evolved from an international working meeting on the topic.
Cultural and Ethical Challenges in Cross-National Research: Reflections on a European Union Study on Child & Youth Migration
Authors: Redmond Mark
Published: July 2017

The increasing development of pan-national and supra-national institutions and ‘states’ such as the European Union implies that comparative cross-national research will become both a more frequent and fruitful research exercise. After all, there is the assumption that data will be consistent and easily available, thought policy contexts are increasingly shared and co-terminous. However, this may not always be the case. Reflecting on a European Union and Nuffield Foundation project, which considered the experience of migrant children and, conducted in Greece, Portugal, Sweden and the UK, the author highlights that, as with any study concerning childhood and youth, qualitative and quantitative methodologies remain ‘culture-bound’. Tracing examples from the developing sociology of childhood, this article suggests that in as much as we recognise the cultural specificity of childhood, so too must we acknowledge that research methodologies are a product of, and embedded within, particular national/cultural contexts. It concludes that, even at the fundamental level of analysing data, culture, ethics and research methodology are closely interconnected and cannot easily be separated into discrete universally understood categories.
Action Research in the Classroom: A Process that Feeds the Spirit of the Adolescent
Authors: Brown Hilary
Published: July 2017

Through action research the question “What nourishes the spirit of the adolescent in the classroom” was subjected to an inventive strategy. The inquiry centered around student-driven questions inserted into a holistic intrapersonal curriculum. Recognition of the penury of literature in adolescent self and spirituality led the researcher to formulate the question, to organize and implement sessions with engaged students in a fluid way, to create an appropriate environment, to collect the data, and to analyze the data along thematic lines. Ultimately, the concept that interconnected components such as competence, encouragement, confidence, and self-esteem allow holistic teaching to flourish when creativity, choice, imagination, and constructivism nourish the adolescent spirit in the classroom. A theory clearly rises from the research. Teaching from a holistic perspective, a teacher can offset the solely outcome-based curriculum directives. The teacher and the adolescents committed to learning can continue to regard outcomes while focusing our commitment to process. To nourish the spirit is key. It is an ongoing process of infinite proportions capable of unleashing the energies of all stakeholders in education: teachers, students, parents, officials. The process, if pursued in a determined and mindful way, will witness the establishment of a civil society, one that endures in a renewable way at all levels: home, school, and community.
Social Representations and the Study of Professional Practice
Authors: Walmsley Christopher
Published: July 2017

The social representations perspective provides a framework for understanding the thinking of the practicing professional, but its effectiveness as a tool for analyzing professional practice has not been considered. In this article, the author assesses the methodological implications of the social representations perspective to the study of social work practice in child protection. The perceived advantages of the perspective—that it captures symbolic forms of thought, permits analysis of the social context of practice, and enables thought about action to be organized and analyzed in an integrated way—are partially supported. The author could not identify the interplay between scientific and everyday knowledge but does describe other knowledge forms significant to the practitioner. Researchers make only partial use of the perspective's major ideas. This suggests that a different method is needed to ensure greater application to professional practice.
Grounded Theory and Sensitizing Concepts
Authors: Bowen Glenn A.
Published: July 2017

Grounded theory is a qualitative research approach that uses inductive analysis as a principal technique. Yet, researchers who embrace this approach often use sensitizing concepts to guide their analysis. In this article, the author examines the relationship between sensitizing concepts and grounded theory. Furthermore, he illustrates the application of sensitizing concepts in a study of community-based antipoverty projects in Jamaica. The article contains commentary about trustworthiness techniques, the coding process, and the constant comparative method of analysis, as well as a synopsis of study findings.
Focus Groups in a Medicine-Dominated Field: Compromises or Quality Improvements?
Authors: Solbjør Marit , Østerlie Wenche , Skolbekken John-Arne , Sætnan Ann Rudinow , Forsmo Siri
Published: July 2017

Mammography screening has traditionally been viewed as a field for medical research. The medical science discourse, however, is highly quantitative, and its claims for validity somewhat opposed to those of qualitative research. To communicate research in a cross-disciplinary field, it is necessary to adapt one's research to several paradigms. The authors conducted focus group interviews with women due to be screened in a national breast cancer screening program. Their prospective design, both strategic and random sampling, and free discussions during focus groups are all questions of satisfying a medical science discourse in the frames of qualitative research. Focus group research showed itself adaptable through the data collection phase in a cross-disciplinary research project on mammography screening.
Open-Ended Online Diaries: Capturing Life as it is Narrated
Authors: Kaun Anne
Published: July 2017

Weblogs and life journals are popular forms of reflecting and reporting online about one's everyday life. In this article the author examines whether solicited online diaries can be used in qualitative research. She discusses advantages and disadvantages of the online research, diaries as a source of data, and narration as a method. The discussion is exemplified by the presentation of an online diary study conducted in two parts in the spring and autumn of 2009 with students from Tartu, Narva, and Tallinn, Estonia. This article shows the illuminating potential and richness of solicited online diaries applied in an open-ended, qualitative understanding as a way to investigate everyday life. At the same time, the main challenges are presented and discussed.
Picturing Students' Habitus: The Advantages and Limitations of Photo-Elicitation Interviewing in a Qualitative Study in the City of Buenos Aires
Authors: Meo Analía Inés
Published: July 2017

In this paper the author examines some advantages and limitations of the use of photo-elicitation interviews in a study on class habitus, identities, and schooling in two secondary schools in the city of Buenos Aires (Argentina). First, she describes her research questions, methodological strategy, and application of photo elicitation technique, which refers to the use of a single or set of photographs as stimulus during a research interview. Second, she assesses the benefits and problems of its application by making comparisons between both different photo-interviews and interviews with and without photographs. This exercise allows the author to identify the benefits of photo-elicitation, such as the opening up of unforeseen dimensions for analysis and the facilitation of a rapport with respondents; and some disadvantages, for example, the possibility of the “closing communication” effect between researcher and participant.
Clinical Research with a Hermenutical Design and an Element of Application
Authors: Lindwall Lillemor , von Post Iréne , Eriksson Katie
Published: July 2017

In 2008 two researchers completed a 2-year study in collaboration with nurse anesthetists and operating room nurses from three operating theaters in western Sweden. In this paper, with focus on methodology and the ethical approach to research, the aim was to describe a hermeneutical design with an element of application used in a perioperative clinical study. The element of application was chosen to involve clinical nurses to participate as coresearchers. This research was inspired by Lindholm's (2006) method for application research developed to bring new knowledge, to create change as well as to unite theory in dialogues with clinical nurses. Through the perioperative dialogue, the coreseacher not only became one who collected data but also the older patients' nurse, who cared for them. A hermeneutical text interpretation with five readings was used to gain new understanding. Perioperative care becomes evident and is dedicated to the patient in perioperative.
Interviewing by Telephone: Specific Considerations, Opportunities, and Challenges
Authors: Block Emily S. , Erskine Laura
Published: July 2017

The use of telephones as a medium for conducting interviews is becoming an increasingly popular data collection method. Despite both the frequency of use of this data collection method and the many advantages conferred to researchers, this method is often considered suspect within the academic community. In methodological discussions of interviewing, the use of the telephone is frequently ignored. The purpose of this article is to explicate the key differences between interviewing by telephone and interviewing in person and highlight three specific challenges to interviewing over the telephone—the sample, the tools, and the medium. This article considers specifically how recent research in management and communications on distanced leadership provides insight into the tradeoffs associated with interviewing through this medium. This data collection medium has clear and distinct advantages, such as providing researchers with flexibility and access that is unavailable through traditional methods, and many of the challenges of telephone interviewing may simply be the result of a natural trade off that exists with respect to all research methods. In order to safeguard against some of the inherent weaknesses of this method, this article provides several lessons that can better inform those researchers who wish to engage in telephone interviews.