bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Depth of eCO2 Fractional Resurfacing with 3 Different Spot Sizes on Facial Skin in vivo
Authors: Husain Amina , Reddy Usha P. , Cummings Thomas , Richard Michael J. , Woodward Julie A.
Published: July 2017

Introduction:

To estimate the depth of laser vaporization of microthermal zones and surrounding thermocoagulation with the eCO2 laser.

Materials and Methods:

Pretragal skin was lased with 3 spot sizes (120, 300, and 1000 μm), and each spot size was lased at 5 different fluences. The 15 different lased areas were then biopsied.

Results:

For the 120-μm tip, as the power increases from 80 to 160 mJ, the depth of laser penetration increased from 520 to 900 μm. Total coagulative effect increased from 720 to 1000 μm. For the 300-μm tip, as the power increases from 100 to 180 mJ, the depth of laser penetration increased from 200 to 550 μm. Total coagulative effect increased from 320 to 720 μm. For the 1-mm tip, as power increased from 60 to 220 mJ, the depth of laser penetration hovered around 125 to 150 μm. Total coagulative effect increased from 150 to 350 μm.

Conclusion:

The 120-μm tip allows for the deepest penetration into facial skin with the least amount of surface area ablated. The 300-μm tip allows for an intermediate level of penetration into the dermis and an intermediate amount of surface ablation. The 1000-μm tip can be used to fully ablate epidermis as in traditional laser resurfacing. Traditional CO2 lasers ablate the entire epidermis, which provides excellent results at the price of prolonged healing times and erythema. These lasers worked with larger spot sizes, often as much as 2.25 mm, and at fluences of about 7–8 J/cm2. Fractional CO2 lasers focus the same amount of energy into the skin in microscopic thermal zones as small as 120 μm, which create fluences of nearly 100 times those of traditional lasers. This results in tissue ablation past the epidermis and through the papillary dermis into the reticular dermis in these narrow zones while leaving the surrounding epidermis intact. These areas of undisturbed tissue allow for more rapid healing. The theory is that the deep penetration into the reticular dermis allows for deep collagen neogenesis, which is good for rhytid improvement while maintaining a rapid healing time.
Patient Perceptions of Cosmetogynecology
Authors: Jovanovic Kevin , Pelosi Marco A. , Pelosi Marco A. , Jovanovic Lois
Published: July 2017

Obstetrics and gynecology has historically delivered comprehensive care. Over the past 50 years, the specialty has yielded to others for expertise in breast, cosmetic, and bladder treatments. Cosmetic surgery was first performed by gynecologists. Liposuction was invented by Giorgio Fischer in 1974. The first abdominoplasty was performed by Howard Kelly in 1910. With the advent of new techniques, surgery has minimal morbidity. This safety makes it possible for the gynecologist to reclaim the tradition as a cosmetic surgeon. There are no citations using the terms cosmetic patient survey gynecology. However, there are 534 in Ovid and 730 in PubMed using cosmetic patient survey. None were related to gynecology; most were patient satisfaction of the procedure. We therefore initiated a study to test the hypotheses that patients would (1) accept these additions to an obstetrics and gynecology practice, (2) be more likely and satisfied to have a procedure because the environment is comfortable, (3) refer other patients, and (4) perceive that the quality of care would not change.
Vaginal Fractional CO2 Laser: A Minimally Invasive Option for Vaginal Rejuvenation
Authors: Gaspar Adrian , Addamo Gabriel , Brandi Hugo
Published: July 2017

Introduction:

To provide evidence that the use of a fractional CO2 laser in combination with platelet-rich plasma (PRP) locally in the vagina mucous with minimal to moderate atrophy and pelvic floor exercise with perineometer would have effects of greater impact in the 3 layers of vaginal walls, including an important decrease of discomfort during sex.

Materials and Methods:

The study was composed of 2 groups: a study group and a control group. The main consultation purposes were vaginal dryness, dyspareunia, and local irritation. The study group underwent PRP, CO2 laser, and pelvic exercise, whereas only PRP and pelvic exercise were applied to the control group. We used a special vaginal scanner, which was able to fractionize the laser and could be inserted in the vagina. Both groups were evaluated with a sexual questionnaire and vaginal biopsies.

Results:

An important improvement of vaginal mucous histology and a decrease of discomfort during sex were observed in most patients in the study group compared with the control group.

Conclusion:

Through the local use of vaginal fractional CO2 laser, PRP, and pelvic floor exercises in women with symptoms of vaginal atrophy, beneficial effects are exerted in the 3 layers of the vagina rather than only the epithelium, as achieved with estrogens. We also observed a significant decrease of discomfort during sex. More data will be needed to better address the use of this new procedure.
The Deep Anchored Inner Thigh Lift
Authors: Blugerman Guillermo , Schavelzon Diego , Galfrascoli Andres , Chomyzsyn Anastasia , Markowsky Andrea , D'Angelo Jorge , Moreno Rodrigo , Soto Javier , Siguen Maria
Published: July 2017

The medial thigh area remains a troublesome region for body contouring in patients with lipodystrophy and/or skin flaccidity. Liposuction has proven effective in patients who have excess fat deposits but do not have a significant degree of skin laxity. The skin in this area of the body is often thin and inelastic, and in most circumstances where skin laxity is present, liposuction alone fails to remodel and tighten the inner thigh. Thus, it is necessary to combine liposuction with skin excision to achieve acceptable cosmetic results. The purpose of this article is to present the authors' technique of inner thigh lift using a novel dermoadipose flap design, which allows an effective anchoring of the inferior flap of the inner thigh to the adductor major tendon at the pubic bone insertion site. This novel approach creates a strong and stable anchoring site for the inferior inner thigh flap. In the authors' experience this technique has proved safe and effective, has a decreased morbidity, and achieves excellent cosmetic results.
Radiofrequency and Laser Lipolysis: Efficacy of Combined Skin Tightening and Fat Reduction
Authors: Van Dyke Susan , Anderson Heather , Hays Geoffrey
Published: July 2017

Introduction:

Combining laser lipolysis and radiofrequency is a logical approach to achieve skin tightening and fat reduction without liposuction. We explore the practicality and value of combining laser lipolysis and monopolar radiofrequency to achieve skin tightening and localized fat reduction in the submental, neck, and jowl areas. Morbidity, patient acceptance, and patient satisfaction were assessed.

Materials and Methods:

Ten patients had laser lipolysis of the submental, neck, and jowl areas. Thirteen patients were treated with monopolar radiofrequency of the face and neck. Thirteen patients underwent a combination procedure that consisted of monopolar radiofrequency of the face and neck and laser lipolysis of the submental, neck, and jowl areas. Some patients received massage/low-level diode treatments. Patients' results were rated by 4 blinded evaluators. Study participants completed a questionnaire to rate their experience, results, and satisfaction.

Results:

Combining laser lipolysis and monopolar radiofrequency does not increase the morbidity of either procedure. Blind photographic evaluation indicates a trend toward better results when laser lipolysis is part of the treatment. Overall patient satisfaction was good but trended lowest in the laser lipolysis only group.

Conclusions:

This study shows no additive value when monopolar radiofrequency and laser lipolysis are combined. We believe that methods to maximally stimulate collagen through dermal heating need to be thoroughly investigated. The ability to reduce fat in a significant way without liposuction is intriguing. Laser lipolysis, without liposuction, and noninvasive radiofrequency appear to have value. Laser lipolysis results have been difficult to evaluate because of simultaneous liposuction.
Thigh Augmentation: Giving the Average Woman Curves in the Right Places
Authors: Chugay Nikolas V. , Chugay Paul N.
Published: July 2017

Introduction:

The curvaceous woman is in vogue again. Breasts are getting bigger, buttocks are getting fuller, and there is increasing demand for a fuller, more curvaceous look to the thighs. Some women have very slender thighs because of genetics or a vigorous exercise program. For those who have this problem, we have designed a solution: a custom implant that slides beneath the fascia lata and gives a bit more curve to the lateral thigh region.

Materials and Methods:

A 3-cm incision is made in the transverse plane of the thigh, and dissection is carried down to the fascia lata. A pocket is created below the fascia using blunt dissection. Once the pocket is created, a custom-made lateral thigh prosthesis (AART Corp, Reno, Nev) is inserted into the subfascial plane. Closure is then performed in layers.

Results:

To date, 18 patients have received lateral thigh prosthesis implantation. All patients were satisfied with the procedure and had no major complications associated with the procedure. One patient presented within 1 week of surgery complaining of some tightness in the area of the implant, raising the concern of compartment syndrome. The patient was observed and her symptoms resolved without further sequelae. No other complications or reoperations were noted in the study period.

Conclusions:

This implant procedure helps the average woman achieve a fuller appearance in the thigh without significant risk or morbidity.
Victim Impact Testimony in New Jersey Capital Cases: A Case Study in Criminal Justice Policy Development
Authors: Reisner Ronald L.
Published: July 2017

This is a case study in the development of a statutory policy concerning victims' rights in the death penalty phase of capital trials in New Jersey. It employs the case method in the analysis of criminal justice policy development. It initially examines the historic roots of policy development as a field of study and then examines the factors leading to a new policy on victim impact testimony. It focuses on the key positions taken by the major stakeholders in the policy debate in the state legislature as well as the subsequent court challenge. Legislative testimony and legal briefs are examined. The study concludes that policy development is a rational process reflecting a careful balancing of political and legal interests.
Measurement and computer-aided optimization of spectral power distributions
Authors: Koedam M. , Opstelten J.J.
Published: July 2017

This paper describes a rapid and reliable method of measuring the spectral power distribution of a lamp. The computer program which calculates the colour rendering index and the correlated colour temperature from this s.p,d, is used to study the influence on colour rendering and correlated colour temperature of adding a line to the spectrum of a metal halide (HPI) lamp. Another application of the computer program shows that with spectra consisting of only three spectral lines it is possible to achieve a general colour rendering index Ra~80. It appears that the three lines have to be chosen in three different wavelength regions, namely a blue line in the region 455-485 nm, a green line in the region 525-560 nm and a red line in the region 595-620 nm. With decreasing colour temperature the optimal wavelengths shift slightly to longer wavelengths whilst the general colour rendering index slightly increases.
A review of methods for measuring the reflectance and transmittance of lighting materials
Authors: Helwig H.J. , Krochmann J.
Published: July 2017

CIE Committee E-2.2 has prepared a report dealing with the characteristics of lighting materials and their measurement. In this paper the authors review methods which have been proposed from time to time for measuring transmittance and reflectance in their different modes and for both directional and diffuse illumination. It is concluded that it is preferable to base these measurements on the use of an integrating sphere, and suitable designs of apparatus and arrangements for determining the more important photometric quantities are described. It is emphasized, however, that these methods are not the only sound methods for making the measurements.
The proportions of Down's syndrome pregnancies detected prenatally in England and Wales from 1989 to 2004
Authors: Morris J K , Alberman E , Mutton D
Published: July 2017

Objectives

The proportion of Down's syndrome pregnancies detected prenatally in England and Wales is lower in younger mothers than in older mothers. This paper examines the reasons for this apparent age inequality.

Methods

We used data from the National Down Syndrome Cytogenetic Register (NDSCR) to examine the time trend of the proportion of Down's syndrome pregnancies diagnosed prenatally according to maternal age over the years 1989–2004 in England and Wales.

Results

A lower proportion of younger mothers had their Down's syndrome pregnancy detected prenatally than older mothers; however, this gap has been closing over time. For example, for mothers under 25 years of age only 13% of Down's syndrome pregnancies were detected prenatally from 1989 to 1992, with this figure rising to 34% in 2001–2004, compared with proportions of 74% in both periods for mothers over 44 years of age. A lower uptake of screening among younger women could not explain these differences. The differences in detection rates of the screening methods according to maternal age, particularly of the older screening tests, could account for these differences.

Conclusions

The closing gap between the proportions of younger and older women having their affected pregnancy prenatally diagnosed is a confirmation of the improvement of screening methods over time.
Validation plots in antenatal screening for Down's syndrome
Authors: Wald N J , Bestwick J P , Huttly W J , Morris J K , George L M
Published: July 2017

Objective

To validate empirically the accuracy of antenatal Down's syndrome screening using the Integrated test, to compare this with other screening tests (including the Integrated test with the addition of cross trimester [CT] marker ratios) and to suggest how such validation analyses should be presented and interpreted.

Methods

Using data from 7809 unaffected and 27 Down's syndrome pregnancies that had had an Integrated test, risk estimates for various screening tests (maternal age, Double, Triple, Quadruple, Combined, Integrated and serum Integrated tests) that use Integrated test markers were categorized according to quintile categories of risk estimates of the 27 affected pregnancies. For each screening test, the median risk estimate for each category was plotted against the observed prevalence within each category. Such validation plots were also produced for the Integrated test with CT marker ratios by measuring the level of the serum markers in the trimester of pregnancy not already measured in stored samples of all affected and a one-in-five sample of unaffected pregnancies. The robustness of the method was assessed by repeating the analysis for the Integrated test after re-classifying affected pregnancies with low risk estimates as unaffected, simulating the underascertainment of cases.

Results

The validation plots (i) confirmed the accuracy of risk estimation for the different tests (by how close the points lay to the line of identity between predicted risk and observed prevalence), (ii) demonstrated the differences in screening performance of the different tests (by the range of risk spanned by the points and, in particular, the separation between the points representing the lowest risk and the next point), and (iii) are robust to underascertainment of affected pregnancies (by having little influence on the closeness of the points to the line of identity).

Conclusion

The validation plot is a useful, simple and robust way to assess the validity of new screening methods, to assess the accuracy of risk estimation and to audit the performance of screening programmes.
Marriage and cancer prevention: Does marital status and inviting both spouses together influence colorectal cancer screening participation?
Authors: Van Jaarsveld Cornelia H M , Miles Anne , Edwards Rob , Wardle Jane
Published: July 2017

Objectives

This study examined the influence of marital status and inviting both partners together on participation in colorectal cancer screening.

Setting

Data were from a subset of participants from the UK Flexible Sigmoidoscopy Trial (1996–1999).

Methods

Marital status was self-reported, and co-invitation of partner was obtained from the trial database. Screening intentions were assessed in 16,527 adults aged 55–64 years. Attendance was recorded in the 4130 respondents who were subsequently invited.

Results

Multivariate analyses, controlling for age and educational level, indicate that married (or cohabiting) people have more positive intentions (odds ratio [OR] 1.26; 95% confidence interval [CI] 1.14–1.38) and higher attendance rates at screening (OR = 1.23; 95% CI 1.04–1.45) than non-married people. After adjusting for the marriage effect, inviting partners together (co-invitation) significantly increased screening intentions among women (OR = 1.17; 95% CI 1.04–1.31) but not men (OR = 0.97; 95% CI 0.85–1.10). Co-invitation significantly increased attendance at screening in both genders (OR = 1.34; 95% CI 1.14–1.58).

Conclusions

In this age group, married adults are more likely to participate in colorectal cancer screening than the non-married, and inviting both members of a couple together further increases screening uptake. The positive effect of marriage was as strong for women as men.
The effect of data quality at the time of introduction of population-based screening on the estimate of programme impact using surrogate outcome measures
Authors: Bennett R L , Blanks R G , Moss S M , Roche M F
Published: July 2017

Objective

The aim of this study was to examine the availability and quality of surrogate outcome measure data to enable the evaluation of the breast screening programme. As the observed effect on mortality of a screening programme occurs many years after the introduction of screening, surrogate outcome measures offer an attractive alternative, allowing estimates of the effect to be calculated earlier.

Methods

The exercise was undertaken by the Oxford Cancer Intelligence Unit and the Cancer Screening Evaluation Unit in collaboration with cancer registries in England, Scotland and Wales.

Results

The conclusion of the exercise was that, in general, the available data quality was insufficient to allow a precise estimate of the overall mortality reduction from breast screening to be made using surrogate measures.

Conclusions

When a screening programme is started, it is vital that forward planning is undertaken to ensure that the necessary information is ready to be collected before the start of the programme. The use of surrogate measures is dependent on high-quality data in the uninvited group of women (pre-screening or from a staggered start over areas), and improving data quality over time after the start of the programme is of very limited value for a surrogate measures approach. The collection of appropriate high-quality information before the programme starts is, therefore, critical to measuring the success of the programme. Cancer registries and staff within the screening programme need to be ready to collect the appropriate data before the introduction of a screening programme. The exercise undertaken therefore has important implications where new screening programmes are being considered.
Book Review: Rajendra K. Srivastava and Gregory Metz Thomas, The Future of Branding
Authors: Arora Prof. Ashok Pratap
Published: July 2017

Rajendra K. Srivastava and Gregory Metz Thomas, The Future of Branding, 2016, New Delhi: SAGE Publications, 468 pp., ₹1,295. (ISBN: 978-93-515-0316-3) (HB)
The Middle East System and African Perceptions of Israel
Authors: Misawa Bubawa
Published: July 2017

In our strategic view of the world and even the methods and theory we use in the study of international politics, we have come to accept the idea that the world is divided into “regions,” and perhaps some regions have come to assume strategic importance to other great powers than others. These “regions” are seen as “subordinate types” or “regional subsystems.” Central to the notion is the recognition by some analysts that different types of systems have specific implications for regional stability, change and order in the international system.1 In this view the important question has been the relation of the regional system to the international system.2 The Middle East system like any other system, is an ordered system. The states are interrelated so that change at one point in the system affects other points. For example, the effects of the Israeli intervention in Lebanon since 1982, the takeover of the Grand Mosque in Mecca by Islamic fundamentalists, and the Iran-Iraq War have been felt all over. “In time, the forces generated by these events assumed a life of their own and they are not easily traced to the specific instances that spawned them.”3
Women and Development - A Case for Development of Women Entrepreneurship? With Special Reference to Indian Women
Authors: Sethi Jyotsna
Published: July 2017

Economic independence is a pre-requisite for women's movement towards gender equality. It is high time that the planners realise that women are contributories in the development process and not mere beneficiaries- they do not need welfare schemes but income generation opportunities. Regardless of social taboos more and more women are being pushed towards paid employment because of economic hardships. Development of women entrepreneurship will serve the dual purpose of empowering women and speeding up the process of economic development. For governments and planners are increasingly realising that economic growth cannot be manufactured by fine tuning, tax and regulatory policies alone, for the existence of a basketball and a court does not guarantee the game and the players. It is the entrepreneur who acts as a spark plug and propels the economy to higher levels of growth and development. An effort to assess the role of women entrepreneurship, in emancipation of women and in the development of the nation is vital to the needs of our times.

In accordance with the issues cited above, this paper is divided into four sections, section 1 tries to capture the relationship between women and development. Section 2 highlights the need for promoting entrepreneurship among women, section 3 outlines the profile of a women entrepreneur, her enterprise and the impediments faced by her whereas the last section contains the summary and suggestions.
Trust Development in Outdoor Leadership
Authors: Shooter Wynn , Paisley Karen , Sibthorp Jim
Published: July 2017

Establishing trusting relationships between leaders and participants is one way that outdoor leaders can create an emotionally safe and productive milieu that supports the attainment of desirable outcomes. Multidisciplinary literature offers considerable insight into leader trust development and the outcomes that are linked to trust in a leader. This paper considers the contributions of that literature and offers findings from two studies that examined how outdoor leaders might gain the trust of participants. The results of these two studies suggest that participants develop trust in outdoor leaders in response to displays of both leader ability and character.
3-D Electronic Maps, Design Implications for the Effects of Elevation Angle Disparity, Complexity, and Feature Type
Authors: Hickox Joseph C. , Wickens Christopher D.
Published: July 2017

Three-dimensional navigational displays have received a fair amount of attention in the literature lately. In this study, we utilized a navigational checking task and manipulated elevation angle disparity, complexity and feature type (defined by man-made vs. natural) and measured its effects on latency and accuracy. Elevation angle disparity was measured in terms of the difference between the sin of the viewing angle or Forward Field of View (FFOV) and the sin of the map angle. A same/different paradigm was employed as subjects compared navigational scenes presented on both a CRT (simulating the map) and projected on a large screen (simulating the FFOV). Main effects were found with the elevation angle disparity, complexity and feature type. Significant interactions were found with elevation angle disparity and feature type, and complexity and feature type. Conclusions are made based upon these findings and their implications for the design of 3-D electronic maps.
Validation of the Explanatory Concept for Decision Support in Air-to-Air Combat
Authors: Crick Jeffrey L. , Selcon Stephen J. , Piras Maddalena , Shanks Craig , Drewery Chris , Bunting Alex
Published: July 2017

A decision-support aid developed for use by pilots in air-to-air combat was evaluated in a simulated beyond-visual-range combat scenario in which military pilots competed against one another head-to-head. Combat performance was assessed on a range of operationally-valid measures with three different versions of a head-down display showing integrated information derived from data fusion. One version presented graphical, dynamic representations of both ownship's and the enemy's missile performance envelopes (launch success zones); another showed only the launch success zones of the enemy aircraft; and a third, control version showed neither form of graphical representation. Superior attacking performance was demonstrated with the display showing both ownship and enemy launch success zones, while more successful evasive performance was associated with the display showing only enemy launch success zones. Greater levels of situation understanding were associated with the display showing both ownship and enemy launch success zones. The results lend ecological validity to the use of explanatory graphical displays in providing decision support for pilots in air-to-air combat.
An Investigation of Helmet-Mounted Display Field-of-View and Overlap Tradeoffs
Authors: Jennings Sion , Dion Manfred
Published: July 2017

NRC researchers investigated the tradeoffs between binocular-overlap and field-of-view in helmet-mounted displays. Four test pilots performed a series of maneuvers in a helicopter while wearing field-of-view (FOV) limiting goggles. They evaluated a monocular FOV, a range of binocular overlaps, and unrestricted vision. Pilots evaluated the system performance and handling qualities using Cooper-Harper Handling Qualities Ratings, visual cue ratings, and subjective comments. The handling qualities of the helicopter/pilot system changed in a non-linear fashion as the binocular overlap increased. Pilot comments, preferences, and visual cue ratings showed the same trends as the handling qualities data. Practical applications of the results are discussed, including helicopter control system augmentation to allow improved performance in degraded visual conditions.
Placement Opportunities for Human Factors Engineering and Ergonomics Professionals
Authors: Moroney William F. , Proulx Nicole L. , Parker Christopher W.
Published: July 2017

During the period from November 1995 through October 1996, the Placement Service of the Human Factors and Ergonomics Society distributed announcements describing 195 positions available for human factors engineers and ergonomics professionals. These announcements were divided into two groups according to employment sector and position type. This paper provides an overview of employment opportunities available in all sectors, and an examination of announced academic and internship positions. Its sequel describes positions available in industry, government and consulting positions (N=162). The attributes of the position announcements examined include: degree requirements, major field of study, areas of expertise, required work experience, salary, geographic location, job description and skills required. Ninety-six percent of the positions were available in industry, consulting, and government/military. Fifty-one percent of the positions describe the masters degree as the minimum requirement.

Eight academic and twenty-five internship positions were announced. The major fields of study most frequently specified for these positions were human factors, psychology and engineering. The most frequently cited area of expertise for academics was Human Computer Interaction (HCI), followed by aerospace, aging, and transportation. Among internships, knowledge of human-computer interaction was most frequently cited. Professional skills and expectations of interns are also discussed.
Designing for Users with Users
Authors: Imada Andrew S. , Wilson John , O'Neill Michael , Robertson Michelle M.
Published: July 2017

Our topic of discussion for this panel is the application of participatory ergonomics within a macroergonomics or systems framework. The overarching theme of applying the concepts of participatory ergonomics and ensuing examples are given within different environmental settings. The panelists will present specific case studies of how they used participatory ergonomics to address organizational and environmental issues to provide strategic ergonomic and environmental solutions.
Measuring the Occupant Benefits of Green Buildings
Authors: Wise James A.
Published: July 2017

Widespread reports have surprisingly indicated that “green” buildings may be as beneficial to their occupants as to the environment. These are purported ancillary benefits like improved health, morale and well being, and even enhanced human performance and productivity. This paper presents the results of a two year quasi-experimental field study in a new ‘green building’ that measured occupant responses, proposed an explanatory rationale, and developed a protocol for assessing overall green building benefits.
Mock Trial: How Human Factors Experts Contribute to Civil Litigation
Authors: Vredenburgh Alison , Cohen H. Harvey , Hornick Richard , Laughery Kenneth , Leonard David , Olsen Richard , Smith Leighton , Thompson David , Wogalter Michael , Zackowitz Ilene
Published: July 2017

A mock trial format will be used to demonstrate how human factors consultants' expertise can facilitate the legal process. The following are two cases that will be “tried” in the mock trial sessions. These cases concern incidents that are commonly investigated by forensic human factors professionals: pedestrian accidents and product warnings. The trip and fall case is designed to depict how a human factors expert can contribute to a plaintiff's case; the warnings case is designed to demonstrate how a human factors expert can enhance a defendant's case. Participants will demonstrate the qualification process, and the direct and cross examination of experts. Experienced human factors professionals will serve as the experts, commentators, attorneys and judge. The commentators will highlight key issues and provide advice to those interested in a forensic human factors practice.
The Biasing Effect of the Photographic Showup Compared to the Lineup on Later Lineup Identification
Authors: Lamson Nina , Behrman Bruce W.
Published: July 2017

Of interest in this study were the effects of the preliminary showup and lineup eyewitness identification methods on later identifications. After watching a video enactment of a car theft, 204 participants answered a questionnaire pertaining to the crime scene. Immediately following this, subjects participated in one of three identification conditions: (a) a showup (n = 65), a single photo of an innocent suspect, (b) a preliminary lineup (n = 56), six photos of suspects including the innocent suspect, or (c) a control (n = 83), no preliminary identification required. One week later, all the participants returned and viewed either a perpetrator-present or a perpetrator-absent photographic lineup. The major finding was that in the perpetrator-absent lineup more false alarms for the innocent suspect were made by showup participants than by either the lineup or control participants. Results were discussed in terms of the biasing properties of the showup procedure and how the memory for the perpetrator is affected.
Allocation of Responsibility for Product Safety: Warning and Severity of Injury Effects
Authors: Laughery Kenneth R. , Laughery Brenda R. , McQuilkin Meredith L. , Lovvoll David R.
Published: July 2017

A study explored how injury severity and the presence of warnings influence people's allocation of responsibility for safety during consumer product use. Eighty-eight subjects were shown ten scenarios, one for each of ten products, describing an accident and injury. The subjects assigned responsibility to the manufacturer, the retailer and the consumer (user). Two variables were manipulated: injury severity and the presence or absence of a warning. The mean responsibility assigned to consumers was 85% and 41% with and without warnings, respectively. The mean allocations to manufacturers was 11% and 49% with and without warnings. The warning effect was less, however, when hazards were more obvious, with consumers generally assigned more responsibility when hazards were obvious. Injury severity was a factor only when warnings were present; manufacturers were assigned greater responsibility for severe injury accidents than for less severe injuries. These results have implications for policies about the need for warnings and for understanding or predicting outcomes of jury decisions in product liability litigation.
The Effects of Cue Informativeness and Signal Amplitude on Auditory Spatial Facilitation of Visual Performance
Authors: Fujawa Greg. E. , Strybel Thomas Z.
Published: July 2017

Research with aurally-aided visual search has demonstrated that a spatial auditory cue facilitates detection of a visual target. By varying both the informativeness of the cue and the amplitude of the cue, this study sought to evaluate the underlying attentional mechanisms involved in this facilitation. In varying informativeness, the auditory cue was either located at the exact location of a target (valid) or at a random location on the opposite lateral side of the target (invalid); the percentage of valid cues (vs. invalid cues) varied at 5%, 25% and 95%. These percentages indicated precise target location (95%), general target location (5%) and minimal information regarding target location (25%). The amplitude of the auditory cue varied at 40dB and 70 dB. The results indicated that the observer can control the allocation of attention toward the target, and that cues indicating general locations are processed differently that cues indicating specific target locations.
Equipment Compatibility and Performance of Men and Women during Heavy Load Carriage
Authors: Harper William H. , Knapik Joseph J. , de Pontbriand Rene
Published: July 2017

This study examined the relative load-carrying ability of men and women. Nineteen male and fifteen female soldiers carried loads of 18, 27, and 36 kg during individual voluntary maximal speed 10-km road marches. Measures included march times, pre- post-march vertical jump and grenade throw, and a post-march questionnaire about equipment compatibility. The major findings were that the average march rates for both male and female soldiers in all load conditions were faster than the rates published in U.S. Army field manuals. This suggests that the test subjects were within the published zone of acceptable performance. Men completed the marches an average of 21% faster than the women. Women reported more problems with the shoulder straps, fit of the waist belts, and the fit and stability of the backpack. Data suggest that at least a portion of the gender differences in march rate may be explained by equipment problems reported by the women.
Washington State Summary of Work-Related Musculoskeletal Disorders by Industry
Authors: Simonton Kevin J.
Published: July 2017

An analysis of work-related musculoskeletal disorders (MSDs) in Washington State using workers' compensation claims and Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) data was conducted in order to identify high risk industries. All claims and BLS cases from 1992–1994 were searched using a specific MSD selection criteria and grouped by risk classification and standard industrial classification (SIC). Twenty-seven percent of all State Fund claims were classified as MSDs. The mean annual cost of MSDs was $166.8 million. Incidence rate claims data showed clerical offices ranked 286 out of 303 risk classes with a rate of 0.64 per 100 workers per year, over five times below the state mean incidence rate of 3.7. The only industry to appear in the top 10 by highest MSD count, incidence rate (including BLS data), and cost was nursing homes. Detailed MSD data by industry can be used by researchers to hypothesis test dose-response relationships and by practitioners to focus intervention efforts where they're most needed.
Automated Job Analysis Using Biomechanical Data and Template Matching
Authors: Yen Thomas Y. , Radwin Robert G.
Published: July 2017

Spectral analysis of upper limb kinematic measurements has been previously demonstrated useful for quantifying physical stress properties of repetitive motion. The method requires manually separating the data into segments corresponding to individual tasks or work elements and computing power spectra. This study investigated using signal pattern recognition to help automate the analysis by separating the data through identification of stereotypical patterns in cyclical tasks. Joint angular data was collected for five industrial jobs using electrogoniometers attached to the wrist, elbow and shoulder of the dominant limb. A multimedia computer system along with the analyst interactively indicate element break points. The break points were also automatically identified using a template matching (TM) algorithm. The algorithm identified the cycle break points on average to within 0.997 s (S.D.=2.762 s) of the human analyst's reference break point. Nevertheless, automated break point identification should be useful for indicating approximate break point and then interactively fine-tuning the computer as a means for reducing the time required to perform an analysis.
A Comparison of Touch, Manual, and Head Controllers for Cursor Movement
Authors: Liggett Kristen K. , Kustra Todd W. , Reising John M. , Hartsock David C.
Published: July 2017

Three different cursor control techniques were used by subjects in a target designation and assignment task. A touch control, a manual control, and a head control technique were investigated. Subjects designated and assigned either individual targets or target groups displayed on a tactical situation format. Speed and accuracy data were collected to determine which of the techniques provided the pilot with the best performance. Results indicated that the touch screen controller allowed for the best performance. Designating groups of targets also resulted in faster times when compared with designating individual targets. These findings are consistent with the results from previous studies and have a significant bearing on the design and implementation of subsystem control mechanisms used in single-seat and multi-crew civilian and military aircraft.
The Impact of Information Technology on Human Space Exploration Missions
Authors: Gross Anthony R. , Gross Madeleine M.
Published: July 2017

Human space expeditions have, from the beginning, involved great risk and complexity. Space flights, accordingly, have utilized substantial quantities of highly skilled labor. The rapid creation and evolution of increasingly powerful information technologies promise a new human-automation systems balance of work. This balance holds the potential of greatly increased crewed and robotic space exploration capability, along with dramatically reduced costs. Since further development of sophisticated information technology systems must, from the outset, consider both the human and the machine as “components” of an integrated system, research supporting the development and optimal utilization of such systems will necessarily incorporate significant human factors components. This paper examines the impact of information technologies on lunar and planetary missions; exemplar inherent human factors aspects, such as display and control in virtual environment/teleoperated systems, are considered.
Attention Allocation within the Abstraction Hierarchy
Authors: Janzen Michael E. , Vicente Kim J.
Published: July 2017

Rasmussen (1985) proposed the abstraction hierarchy, consisting of physical and functional system models, as a basis for interface design for complex human-machine systems. In this study, subjects used an interface consisting of four windows, each representing a level of the abstraction hierarchy, to control a thermal-hydraulic process simulation. The goal was to investigate the relationship between attention allocation strategies and performance under normal and abnormal conditions. Subjects controlled the process for about one hour per weekday for approximately one month. The results indicate that subjects who made more frequent use of functional levels of information exhibited more accurate system control under normal conditions, and more accurate diagnosis performance under fault trials. Moreover, subjects who made efficient use of functional information exhibited faster fault compensation times. These results provide specific evidence of the advantages of functional information in an abstraction hierarchy interface.
The Interactive Monitoring and Control (IMAC) Design Methodology: Application and Empirical Results
Authors: Thurman David A.
Published: July 2017

The Interactive Monitoring and Control (IMaC) methodology is a design methodology for operator interfaces to complex engineering systems. This four-step methodology helps designers tailor human-computer interaction to communicate monitoring and control activity requirements to the operator. This paper presents the methodology and associated design principles as well as the results of an empirical study assessing the effectiveness of a proof-of-concept operator interface. The study found that an interface designed by the IMaC methodology resulted in superior operator performance when compared to a conventional interface.
Using PEBBLES to Facilitate Remote Communication and Learning
Authors: Williams Laurel A. , Fels Deborah I. , Smith Graham , Treviranus Jutta , Eagleson Roy
Published: July 2017

When a student is away from school for an extended time due to illness, s/he is provided with a tutor or in-hospital classrooms to keep up with studies. This isolates the child from normal classroom experiences.

A remote controlled communication system, PEBBLES (Providing Education By Bringing Learning Environments to Students), was developed which allows a remote student to communicate with his/her regular class and provides the student with a classroom presence.

Two case studies were conducted to examine the effectiveness of PEBBLES in allowing a student to participate in the classroom, to communicate with his/her teacher and classmates, and to have a distinct presence in the classroom.

Results indicate that the students can communicate successfully using PEBBLES. The remote participants appeared to have a presence in the classroom environment and were positive about their experiences. Gaining the attention of the instructor through the system seemed to be more difficult.
Demonstrating the Value of the User Interface Design Process Using Six Sigma Methodology
Authors: Hill N. Sharon , Miller Marta A. , Stimart Reynold P.
Published: July 2017

As part of an overall quality initiative at General Electric (GE), a study was undertaken to understand and reduce usability defects in the software development lifecycle at GE Information Services, Inc. Six Sigma methodology, which tries to increase quality through systematic process improvement, was applied to a sample of usability data. The results of this effort found that usability defects were highest in those products where there had been minimal involvement of the User Interface staff and usability defects were most dramatically reduced by using a systematic approach to usability (i.e., the user interface design process). When presented to upper management, the net effect of this study was a raised consciousness in the company that usability defects are very controllable, a policy statement issued that future development efforts would include the user interface design process, and a commitment for increased resources for the User Interface team.
A Method for Defining and Selecting Multivariate “Percentile” Exemplars: H-Contours
Authors: Kreifeldt J. G.
Published: July 2017

Designing to fit the “95th percentile man” can proceed once the “95th percentile man” is given some conceptual and statistical meaning. Because of the multivariate nature of the problem, there are a number of ways to define and construct such a “95th percentile man”. At present, a percentile figure is generally one which has the given percentile for height but has the rest of the body segments proportioned according to some formulae relating the segments to the height. It is well known that the such resultants are not satisfactory representatives of the population. As a result, one often tries to piece manikins together by attaching (e.g.) “5th percentile” arms onto a “95th percentile” tall figure, or otherwise combining different percentile segments in order to try to represent the considerable percentile variation in body segments existing within individuals in the population of a “95th percentile (height) man”. Methods for constructing more representative exemplars (or manikins) of a population are needed for multivariate design and analysis. This paper proposes a method based on “h-contours” which has the advantages of conceptually extending the univariate percentile concept as well as being suitable for design by constructing realistic multivariate exemplars. A multivariate Gaussian distribution is used for computational purposes. The proposed method is briefly contrasted with the “ellipse” method as proposed by others. A bivariate example is used to illustrate the concepts and computations.
Technology and the Older Adults: Designing a Usable Interface
Authors: Glaser Robert A. , Fisher Donald L. , Schell Alan
Published: July 2017

New technologies are being introduced with little regard for potentially unique users such as older adults. As a consequence, such users frequently have trouble operating the controls for these new technologies. As a way around these problems, we asked whether a general set of design guidelines could be generated which would improve older adults' performance on existing audio remote controls. In a series of three experiments, we were able to show that older adults did have much more difficulty operating existing remote controls than younger adults, that a common problem lay behind most of those errors, and that general guidelines for the design of audio remote control interfaces emerged which when implemented led to large improvements in performance. The guidelines can be generalized to the much larger set of remote controls, thereby potentially increasing the independence and well being of many older adults.