bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Mechanical and structural investigations of wings of selected insect species
Authors: Landowski Michał , Kunicka-Kowalska Zuzanna , Sibilski Krzysztof
Published: August 2020

_This paper presents research and measurements leading to obtaining the Young’s modulus of wing bearing structures of selected insect species. A small testing machine intended for three-point bending and equipped with instruments registering low forces was constructed for the needs of the experiment. The machine was used to perform numerous bending tests of wings of three species of insects (obtained from a breeding farm): Attacus atlas, Vespa crabro, Libellula Depressa at various air-humidity conditions. Values of the force and displacement obtained in the course of the tests were used to calculate Young’s modulus. In order to do so, it was also necessary to obtain the moment of inertia of the wing cross-section. These values were measured on the basis of the images obtained with a SEM microscope. Obtained results were averaged and presented with a breakdown by air-humidity conditions. It was observed that Young’s modulus decreased with an increase of humidity, hence the calculations of the percentage decrease of this mechanical parameter were performed. Obtained results were compared with the observed structure which was also presented under light microscope. It transpired that the construction of a wing does not only influence the mechanical values but also it influences their susceptibility to the changes occurring in the environment. Thereby, differences between Lepidoptera and Hymenoptera insects were indicated also within the aspect discussed in this paper.
Bond strength of modern self-adhesive resin cements to human dentin and different CAD/CAM ceramics
Authors: Małysa Andrzej , Weżgowiec Joanna , Danel Dariusz , Boening Klauss , Walczak Katarzyna , Więckiewicz Mieszko
Published: August 2020

Purpose: The aim of the study was to evaluate the shear bond strength of CAD/CAM ceramics to dentin after cementation with conventional or self-adhesive resin cements. Methods: Three self-adhesive, self-etching cements (Panavia SA, RelyX U200, Maxcem Elite), and one conventional cement (Panavia V5), were selected to lute three CAD/CAM ceramics (IPS Empress CAD, IPS e.max CAD, IPS e.max ZirCAD) onto the dentin. The bond strength was evaluated using a shear strength test according to the PN-EN ISO 29022:2013-10. Evaluation of the differences was performed using the Statistica software. Failure modes were analyzed using a light microscope. Results: All the studied cements differed (regardless of the ceramic type) in the bond strength. The highest bond strength was observed in Panavia V5, lower – in RelyX U200 and Panavia SA, and the lowest – in Maxcem. For IPS e.max ZirCAD, it was observed that compared to Panavia V5, the other cements were characterized by a significantly higher bond strength. For the IPS Empress CAD and the IPS e.max CAD, Panavia V5 displayed the highest bond strength. For all the studied self-adhesive cements, the failure of adhesion between the cement and dentin was predominant mode. Conclusions: Significant differences were found in the shear bond strengths of the CAD/CAM ceramics luted to dentin using tested self-adhesive and conventional cements. The bond strength depended on the combination of ceramic and cement. The IPS e.max ZirCAD had the highest bond strength to dentin after cementation with RelyX U200, while the IPS Empress CAD and IPS e.max CAD – with Panavia V5.
Patient-specific finite element analysis of frictional behavior in different esophageal regions during endoscopy
Authors: Chengxiong Lin  , Pan Ren  , Wei Li  , Hengyi Deng  , Zhongrong Zhou
Published: August 2020

Purpose: Endoscopy is a common and effective method to treat digestive system diseases. Not only can it detect the physiological state of the digestive tract, but also can conduct clinical operations. As a result, it’s of great significance to make clear the relationship between the clinical operation and the complications. Methods: Considering the difficulty in measuring the contact force and determining the stress distribution in real time during endoscopy, a specific-patient finite element model for the frictional behavior at the endoscope-esophagus interface was built in current study. By collecting the CT data of the patient, a 3D esophagus model was built and divided into three characteristic regions (narrow region, thoracic region and abdominal region) according to the physiological structure. Results: Results showed that the radius of the narrowest position was the dominant factor for the maximum von Mises stress when the endoscope passed through the narrow region. For abdominal region and thoracic region, with the increasing coefficient of friction (COF) and amplitude, the total force duo to frictional force (CFSM), frictional dissipation (FD), strain energy (SE) and maximum von Mises stress (Max) all increased correspondingly. Meanwhile, the region of stress concentration gradually approached the initial contact stage. Conclusions: The results can provide theoretical basis and technical support for clinical application and offer some suggestions for medical workers during endoscopy as well.
Investigation of the adhesion properties of calcium-phosphate coating to titanium substrate with regards to the parameters of high-frequency magnetron sputtering
Authors: Kenzhegulov Aidar K. , Mamaeva Axaule A. , Panichkin Alexander V. , Prosolov Konstantin A. , Brończyk Anna , Capanidis Dymitry
Published: August 2020

Purpose: The main goal of the work was to find the interconnection between the high-frequency magnetron sputtering parameters and the adhesion properties of CaP coatings formed on the surface of titanium substrate. Methods: Calcium-phosphate coatings, similar in composition to hydroxyapatite, were generated by high-frequency magnetron sputtering on titanium substrate at different values of high-frequency specific power over times of one and two hours. Afterwards, the generated coatings were studied using the method of X-ray phase analysis, and sclerometric tests (scratch test) were carried out. The adhesion strength of the deposited coatings was tested for different coating thicknesses from 0.45 to 1.1 × 10–3 mm. Results: According to the results of sclerometry, it was found that with an increase in the high-frequency specific power of plasma to 3.15 W/cm2, the adhesion strength of the calcium-phosphate coating also increases. For all the coatings, the critical loads at which the coating completely exfoliated from the substrate were determined. Conclusions: According to the research results, the most optimal conditions for obtaining high-adhesive calcium-phosphate coatings were determined.
Inhaled drug airflow patterns and particles deposition in the paediatric respiratory tract
Authors: Tyfa Zbigniew , Jóźwik Paulina , Obidowski Damian , Reorowicz Piotr , Jodko Daniel , Kapka Karolina , Makosiej Ryszard , Czkwianianc Elżbieta , Jóźwik Krzysztof
Published: August 2020

Purpose: The effectiveness of inhaled drugs is strictly related to areas reachable by drug particles. Unless particles reach the desired part of the bronchial tree, their influence might not meet the expectations. Consequently, the disease progress might not be stopped or even slowed down. Therefore, the primary objective of this research was to analyze the airflow patterns and particle deposition of a standard inhaled drug using computational fluid dynamics. Methods: The study was devoted to the analysis of the particle Diameter influence on their deposition areas within the entire respiratory tract. Two patient-specific respiratory tract models, for 6 and 12-year-old patients, were reconstructed based on the computed tomography examinations. Numerical analyses were carried out as stationary ones with the constant inflow of the particles of various diameters (within the range of 1–50 μm). It was proven that depending on the particle size, their deposition within the respiratory tract varies significantly. Results: The vast majority of the particles with diameters over 20 μm is gathered on the walls of the throat, whereas particles of diameters 5–15 μm are accumulated mainly on the trachea walls, leaving the alveoli insufficiently supplied with the drug particles. Conclusions: The inhaled drug size cannot be treated as negligible factor during the drug spraying. An improper distribution of the particles might not inhibit the symptoms of the asthma. Numerical simulations may improve drugs selection and visualize their distribution along the airways, which might accelerate asthma treatment personalization.
Mechanical and histomorphometrical evaluation of false and floating ribs of young adults with idiopathic scoliosis
Authors: Magdalena Jakub Głowacki , Tomanik Magdalena , Pezowicz Celina , Krauss Hanna
Published: August 2020

Purpose: The aim of this paper was to assess the histomorphometrical and mechanical properties of ribs in patients with idiopathic scoliosis who underwent corrective surgery of scoliosis combined with thoracoplasty. Methods: The analyzed material encompasses 20 females between the ages of 12 and 18, whose pre-operative Cobb angle was 56.85 degrees, on average. The participants were divided into two age groups, up to the age of 15 and above 15 years old, taking into account the anatomical location of the assessed rib fragments with a division into floating and false ribs. The analysis of mechanical parameters was carried out by means of the quasi-static 3-point bending test, and the histomorphometric evaluation of the examined rib fragments was carried out using high-resolution computed tomography. Results: The existence of explicit relationships between selected radiological parameters describing scoliosis and mechanical and histomorphometric parameters of the ribs has not been confirmed. Statistically significant correlations between age and rib stiffness as well as between Young’s modulus and stiffness depending on the anatomical location of the examined rib fragment were confirmed. Conclusions: Mechanical and histomorphometric properties of bone tissue in patients with scoliosis are not explicitly associated with the radiological parameters characterizing scoliosis.
Impact of body weight on shifting of foot pressure among adult subjects
Authors: Youssef Enas F. , Shanb Alsayed A. , Ameer Mariam A. , Shanab Mahmoud E.
Published: August 2020

Purpose: The aim of the study was to compare the distribution of foot plantar pressure between normal and obese adult subjects during walking. Methods: Sixty male and female adult volunteers (aged 20–40) were recruited into the study. They were equally divided into 30 normal subjects (BMI = 18.5–22.9 kg/cm2) into group I and 30 obese subjects (BMI ≥ 25.0 kg/cm2) into group II, according to their BMI. Results: There were statistically significant differences between normal and obese subjects in foot length, width, and pressure distribution in the hindfoot, midfoot, forefoot, and toes. There was a statistically significant increase in the plantar pressure of all measured areas in obese persons in comparison with the normal subjects. In addition, all measures of foot pressure showed statistically significant differences between the same sex of both groups, while the obese subjects of both genders have higher foot pressure in all measured areas. High positive correlations were detected between BMI, peak pressure, foot contact, and foot width in both groups, but there was a weak positive correlation between normal BMI and foot contact area. Conclusion: The distribution of plantar foot pressure is different in adult obese subjects than in normal adult subjects during walking activity. The obese persons have larger foot length, width, higher peak pressure, and contact area. This study can help physical therapists to understand the differences of foot pressure between normal and obese subjects, and consequently, to detect any expected foot abnormalities accompanied by obesity.
COGNITIVE REACTION TIME PERFORMANCE AND SUBJECTIVE DROWSINESS: A CRITICAL EVALUATION OF THE EFFECT OF WHOLE-BODY VIBRATIONS
Authors: Amzar A  , Fadhilah MS
Published: August 2020

It is believed that exposure to whole-body vibration (WBV) may increase seated occupant drowsiness, and seated occupant drowsiness may contribute to vehicular accidents. Previous studies on driver comfort have indicated that long-term exposure to WBV may have an adverse effect on musculoskeletal disorders. However, the effects of WBV on seated occupants’ drowsiness have been less rigorously studied. Thus, this study aims to investigate the association between exposure to WBV and drowsiness level.  Laboratory experiments were designed and involved eighteen healthy male volunteers. Volunteers were exposed to random gaussian vibration for 20-minutes with the frequency between 1-15Hz. The transmitted vibration magnitude was adjusted for each volunteer to become 0.2ms-2   for low vibration magnitude and 0.4ms2 for medium vibration magnitude. Volunteers’ vigilance was measured by the Psychomotor Vigilance Task (PVT) before and after the vibration exposure. The analyses revealed a substantial drop in volunteers’ vigilance level after exposure to vibration and the effect was more pronounced in high vibration amplitude 0.4 ms-2. These findings suggested that exposure to vibration even as low as 20-minutes may attribute to the reduction of alertness level.
FATIGUE ANALYSIS OF HIGH DUMP TRUCK OPERATORS IN INDONESIA’S COAL MINING INDUSTRY: A CASE STUDY
Authors: Trisna Mulyati  , Prima Denny Sentia  , Anis Maulana  , Friesca Erwan
Published: August 2020

A coal mining industry typically applies a 24-hours working time, which enforces some workers to stay conscious during night shift, opposing human body's biological clock. This study aims to analyse the level of fatigue experienced by high dump truck operators (HD operators) in a coal mining site in East Kalimantan, Indonesia. This study utilizes primary data which obtained from distributing Industrial Fatigue Research Committee (IFRC) survey to all HD operators and secondary data (for Fatigue Likelihood Scoring - FLS) which consists of HD operators’ working schedule that currently applied in the company. Results obtained is analyzed using Fatigue Risk Management System (FRMS) framework which combines FLS classification and Dawson-McCulloch’s model of fatigue risk trajectory. This study reveals that based on IFRC survey, HD operators experienced low/mild fatigue due to insignificant influence of fatigue-related factors contained in the survey. However, consideration for improvement is in need since the result of fatigue for night shift operators is close to moderate level. In addition, based on FLS, the level of fatigue indicates that HD operators experienced excessive working hours, in which in FRMS graph classified as fatigue-related errors. Thus, this study proposes several strategies as the hazard control mechanism: (1) providing optimum resting time, (2) equipping operators with audio music that lead to positive energy and increasing work focus, and (3) adding afternoon shift to balance the working hours.
THE INFLUENCE OF CHILDREN’S PLAYROOM INTERIOR ASPECT IN REGARD TO PARENTAL SAFETY PERCEPTION. CASE STUDY: CHILDREN’S PLAYROOM AT 23 PASKAL BANDUNG, INDONESIA
Authors: Rizka Rachmawati  , Imtihan Hanom  , Santi Salayanti
Published: August 2020

Children’s playrooms in public spaces need to consider the safety of their interior elements. Previous studies also discussed about things that need to be taken into account to assure the children’s safety while playing. However, some parents join their children playing in public spaces due to the cautiousness of playground safety level. This study was conducted to understand how far the interior aspects of children’s playgrounds can affect parents’ safety perception to let their children play by themselves in public spaces, for example, the children’s playroom in 23 Paskal Bandung, West Java, Indonesia. The result shows that sufficient light, interior finishes, and noise or sound intensity in the children’s playground at 23 Paskal Bandung, Indonesia can make parents feel safe to let their children spend time there.
ABLUTION WORKSTATIONS DESIGN FOR PERSON WITH PHYSICAL DISABILITIES IN MALAYSIA
Authors: Siti Zawiah MD Dawal  , Mirta W  , Nur Syahirah A  , Muhammad Suhairi A
Published: August 2020

An investigation on ablution workstations design for person with disabilities has been carried out in this study. The focused were on wheelchair user or person with lower-limb impairment in Malaysia. The objective of this research is to determine the most suitable ablution workstation for person with disabilities. One hundred wheelchair users which include 74 males and 26 females participated in the study.  The findings highlighted that the most suitable and preferred ablution workstation for person with disabilities is a separate design for washing hands and legs. The results also indicated that the noteworthy body parts that should be enhanced are arms, neck, trunk, and legs.  Therefore, it can be concluded that it is important to design an ablution workstation with correct anthropometric dimensions referring to the population under investigation taking into account their preferences and disabilities limitation. Thus, the innovation will bring equality between people with disabilities and physically normal people in future facilities design. The workstation will become one of the worthy social contributions to the population of Muslim disabilities especially in Malaysia.
ASSOCIATION BETWEEN SCHOOLBAG WEIGHT AND BACK PAIN AMONG PRIMARY SCHOOLCHILDREN IN KAJANG, SELANGOR
Authors: Shurul Azwa Shuhaimi  , Haliza Abdul Rahman
Published: August 2020

These days, there is a growing concern that schoolchildren are carrying too heavy school back on their backs. The use of a back pack is the most important factor causing low back pain among students. Thus, a cross sectional study was conducted on 81 schoolchildren from two different types of primary school in Kajang, Selangor. The objective of this paper is to determine the association between schoolbag weight and back pain among primary schoolchildren in Kajang, Selangor. For the method, respondents’ body weight and their schoolbag weight were measured using the electronic body composition OMRON and KERN weighing scale respectively, while the height was measured using Body Meter Seca 208cm. Back pain in the past one week was assessed using questionnaire, adapted from previous studies. This studied involving 81 primary schoolchildren from two types of school which were government and private school. 74.1% of schoolchildren had the schoolbag weight more than 10% of their body weight. 32.1% of schoolchildren reported having back pain and 21.0% of them were female respondents. Back pain was detected in 24.7% government schoolchildren and 7.4% private schoolchildren. There was significant association between back pain and; relative weight (x2=9.720, p=0.002) and types of school (x2=4.949, p=0.026). As conclusion, schoolchildren that carry schoolbag heavier than that generally recommended which is not more than 10% of body weight will experienced the back pain
CORRELATION OF SAFETY PERCEPTIONS AND SAFETY BEHAVIOR IN UNIVERSITY TEACHING LABORATORY
Authors: Rahmat N  , Nur Annisa F  , Muhammad D  , Muhammad H
Published: August 2020

Chemicals usage has been reported as the cause of accidents in a laboratory. Those accidents have caused many injuries, even fatality in many sectors, one of which happened in the University Teaching Laboratory. Accidents usually happen because of unsafe behavior, while unsafe behavior is caused by bad safety perceptions. This paper investigates the correlation of perceptions and behavior in University Teaching Laboratory. The result measured by regression analysis to find out the relationship between two variables showed that there is a strong relationship between perceptions and behavior. Therefore, safe behavior can be created through creating good perception.
DESIGN AND DEVELOPMENT OF ERGONOMIC TABLE AND ANALYZE USING RULA ANALYSIS
Authors: Mohd Hidayat Ab Rahman  , Nurul Ain Maidin  , Umi Hayati Ahmad  , Mohd Salahuddin Mohd Basri  , Mohd Nazri Ahmad  , Ridhwan Jumaidin  , Mohd Hairizal Osman  , Mohammad Khalid Wahid
Published: August 2020

Ergonomics and design have made the greatest relation in producing an artifact or creating a workplace. A computer table is widely used in classrooms in universities. However, the problems of the current computer table have been detected through the results of RULA analysis. In this project, a survey of the questionnaire was done and the anthropometric data have also been collected. The dimensions of the current computer table are then collected and the deficiencies of the current computer table have been focused on RULA analysis. A new structural design of the computer table has been designed, in order to meet the requirements of ergonomics. A product of the new design of ergonomics computer table is made and has been focused on RULA analysis to define the improvement between both tables. The paper showed a comparison between the current computer table and the new ergonomics computer table were analyzed. The improvement of the new ergonomics computer table was identified and reduced the injuries and disorders. A further investigation on better working posture when using a computer table is required, while further improvement for the product design of a new ergonomics computer table is needed, as well as the application of the ergonomics design aspect in our life.
EFFECT OF AUDITORY DISTRACTION ON HAND AND FOOT REACTION TIME AMONG AGEING MALAYSIAN AUTOMOBILE DRIVERS
Authors: Nazlin HA  , Siti Zawiah MD
Published: August 2020

The involvement of ageing drivers in traffic accidents were reported but little cited on the severity of auditory driving distractions. Driving distraction contributes to increases in reaction time which can lead to safety traffic risks. Thus, in this study, hand and foot reaction times were measured in response to different distractions within the identical simulated driving route. The task varies in a controlled setting where soundless distractions were present, Comfortable Loudness Level (CLL), Uncomfortable Loudness Level (ULL) auditory distractions, and phone call distraction. Participants were among 40 Malaysian driving license holders consists of 57.5% males and 42.5% females with age mean, (M=51.83, SD=14.058). Results indicated that both hand and foot reaction time were shortest for CLL and longest during phone call. Ageing male scored shortest hand reaction time of 1.15s during CLL distraction. For foot reaction time, ageing male scores shortest of 0.92s for both CLL and no distractions. Pearson’s coefficient of correlation shows r>0.5. The results indicated hand reaction time was affected by foot reaction time (r=0.665), was significantly more for foot when compared with hand, could be because of difference in nerve conduction velocity and movement time of the hand when compared with that of foot.
ERGONOMIC DESIGN OF THE CUTTING MACHINE FOR CHOPPING CYPERACEAE PLANT
Authors: Hartomo Soewardi  , Lintang Zahrima Kalsum
Published: August 2020

The manual cutting is still applied in the Small and Medium Industries (SMI) especially in cutting the Cyperaceae plant. One of the varieties is “Fimbristylis Globulosa (Mendong)”. This plant is used as a raw material to manufacture the handicraft. The process is commenced with chopping the plant by using a manual tool. However, the existing tool still causes some complains where 90% of users experienced discomfort and unsafe in the use. The tool is also not effective and efficient for cutting. Thus, it is significant to improve the better cutting tools. This objective of this study is to design the innovative and ergonomic cutting tools for satisfying user requirements. The survey was done to identify some discomfort. The participatory ergonomic method is applied to determine the specification of design on basis anthropometry data of users. Non-parametric statistical analysis is conducted to test the hypothesis. The results of this study show that the developed design is a valid to reduce the risk of work-related musculoskeletal disorders and more comfort and safer at 5% of the significant levels where the proposed design specification used electric motor system and pneumatic system.
ERGONOMIC RISK ASSESSMENT ON SELECTED HOT-WORK WORKERS AT COMPANY XXX
Authors: Sivabalan Sanmugum  , Karmegam Karuppiah  , Sivasankar
Published: August 2020

Company XXX is a factory that involving manufacturing of offshore containers in where the hot works are one of the crucial activities in fabrication and structuring the framework of the containers. This study had been conducted at hot work section to conduct initial and advanced ergonomic risk assessment to identify ergonomic risk factors involved among hot-work workers which cause the significant number of reports on ergonomic related health issues at hot works area from the year 2011 to year 2017. The initial and advanced ergonomic risk assessment had been conducted based on DOSH latest release of guideline on ergonomic risk assessment 2017 and all findings had been tabulated and analysed. Based on the intial ergonomic assessment, total score achived is 17.7 with main risk factors identified through the hot work acticties are including awkward postures, repetitive motions, static and sustained work postures, vibration, insufficient ventilation, exposure of noise and working in extreme temperature. Based on Advanced ERA conducted on selected 3 workers, the study shows Muscle Fatigue Assessment (MFA) with average score for risk level shown ‘High’ and ‘Very High’ categories, Rapid Entire Body Assessment (REBA) with average total score more than 10 which categorized as ‘High Risk’ and Quick Exposure Check (QEC) which shown the workers have very high risk for back and shoulder or arm parts with score level are between 29 to 40 for back static and  41 to 56 for shoulder and arm parts. Based on results of the assessment, company XXX recommended had been to conduct further investigation for improvements to determine effective control measure for the work process in order to reduce that risk level towards the hot work workers.
EVALUATION OF UNIVERSAL DESIGN REQUIREMENTS APPLICATION IN PUBLIC MOSQUES IN BANDUNG
Authors: Rangga F  , Nangkula U  , Nazlina S  , Sumarni I  , Ratri W
Published: August 2020

A Number of studies have found the cases of facilities in public buildings which are inaccessible by users & visitors with different abilities. Thus, constructing user friendly and barrier-free architecture-interior design is necessary in the built environment. This research will evaluate the requirements for ease of access in public mosques with study cases Pusdai Mosque & Grand Mosque of Bandung in accordance with the Regulation of the Ministry of Public Works and Public Housing of the Republic of Indonesia No.14 2017. The regulation which stipulates the provision of facilities in buildings and environments that suit the needs of all age groups, conditions of physical; mental; and intellectual; or sensory limitations based on the buildings’ function to provide user and visitor convenience in doing activities in the buildings. Both mosques, the Pusdai Mosque and Grand Mosque have not entirely fulfilled the standards of universal design in the interior in term of ease of access, safety and autonomy of space use, safety and security for all. From 7 universal design standard requirements, both mosques of study case only fulfill less than 50% of the requirements
INCREASING BLINK RATES: REDUCING DRIED EYE SYMPTOMS WITH EYE REST-BREAK APPLICATION
Authors: Dian D.I. Daruis  , Hairunnisa Osman  , Ezrin Hani Sukadarin  , Fauzana Mustaffa  , Henderi Ardimansyah  , Zulkefli M. Sain  , Azmir Ariffin  , Siti N.A. Jamaludin  , Baba M. Deros
Published: August 2020

Long working hours with video display unit without appropriate breaks could drain the eyes. This study intends to investigate the efficiency of eye rest-break application to reduce dried eye symptoms by increasing blink rates. Blink rates and dried eye symptoms score among laboratory workers before and after the implementation of eye rest-break application were compared. The numbers of blink rates were recorded using a webcam for 5 minutes without the subjects aware when the recording starts or ends. Then, the Ocular Surface Disease Index (OSDI) was used to measure the dried eye symptoms. For eyes rest-break, EyeLeo© application was used. It is computer application that gives reminders to video display unit (VDU) users to take short breaks for their eyes. Six laboratory workers who are constantly working with VDU were selected as subjects. Data was analysed using Wilcoxon Signed-Rank Test, to test the comparison between variables before and after intervention by reporting its median (inter quartile range, IQR). The findings showed that the median after intervention (39.5, 10) is significantly higher (p-value = 0.028) than the median before intervention (7.3, 3). As for dried eye symptoms, median for Ocular Surface Disease Index after intervention (27.9, 8.9) is significantly lower (p-value = 0.027) than the median before intervention (36.5, 9.4). As a conclusion, application such as EyeLeo© eye rest-break is a potential intervention and may be used to increase blink rates and reducing dried eye symptoms among visual display unit workers.
MUSCLE CONTRACTION DURING MANEUVERING STEERING WHEEL USING SURFACE ELECTROMYOGRAPYHY
Authors: Darliana M  , Baba MD  , Dian DID  , Ahmad RI
Published: August 2020

Driving posture is one of the factors that need to be emphasized in ensuring driver’s comfort and to avoid road accidents and injuries. Meanwhile, fatigue has a strong relationship with comfortable posture and it contributes 15.7% of the total road accidents in Malaysia. Fatigue can reduce driving concentration and performances, thus increases the risk of road accidents and injuries. In order to determine the driver’s comfort, this study had measured muscle contraction using the objective measurement for comfortable and optimum driving posture angles. The equipment used for conducting objective measurement on 14 respondents was sEMG. The researcher had used sEMG equipment to evaluate muscles activities at upper extremities, which comprises of Biceps Brachii (BB), Deltoid Anterior (DA) and Trapezious Upper (TU) that were involved during controlling the car steering. It involves three driving postures parameters according to the fixed elbow and shoulder angles. The results from this study showed the BB muscle increased positively when turning the steering wheel to the right within 3 to 6 times value increased. Meanwhile, DA and TU muscles experience a contraction in the opposite direction with steering wheel turning action, which shows higher right side DA and TU muscle contraction when the driver turn the steering to the left with around 80% decrease for DA and within 60% to 80% decrease value for TU. BB muscle also shows an increasing value of muscle contraction with higher elbow flexion, meanwhile DA and TU muscles contraction also show an increment in-line with greater shoulder abduction. The results showed that posture B with elbow angle at 36° and shoulder angle at 134° are the most comfortable driving postures, hence the lowest muscle contraction value of 15.67μV (BB), 19.31μV (DA) and 12.36μV (TU) compared to the other two measured postures. The results of muscle contraction from this study is capable of assisting researchers and car manufacturers to understand the relationship of steering maneuvering when developing more comfortable and suitable vehicle’s driver seat compartment.
REDESIGN OF BREASTFEEDING CHAIR FOR NURSERY ROOM
Authors: Prima F  , Vella V  , Lusi S  , Hilma Raimona Z
Published: August 2020

Breastfeeding chair is one of the essential facilities in the airport. This study designs the breastfeeding chair for the nursery room in Minangkabau International Airport. Quality Function Deployment (QFD) was used to investigate the customer requirements by distributing questionnaires to 100 mothers in Padang West Sumatra. Anthropometry data was also measured form those respondents. The study resulted in a design of ergonomic breastfeeding chair which was used features obtained from the voice of the customers. The design has considered the condition of the mother giving birth by normal as well as a cesarean. The design has an adjustable back seat with an angle of 95o,105o, and 110o; it has an adjustable footrest with 120o, 140o, and 180o angles. The chair has a headrest, baby support pad, a portable baby cushion, an adjustable baby bearings. The chair has also equipped with an assemble torn neck, a small drawer on the side of the chair, and a palm rest that can be used or not by adjusting the height.
SLEEPINESS AND DAILY SLEEP OF MALAYSIAN SHIFT WORKERS IN ELECTRONICS MANUFACTURING INDUSTRY
Authors: Mohd Shahril AH  , Mohamad Ezuan AJ  , Norazura I
Published: August 2020

The purpose of this study was to identify the relationship between sleepiness and daily sleep amount, and its significant associated factors among shift workers of the electronics manufacturing industry in Malaysia. 300 shift workers were asked to respond to a survey on demographic information, sleepiness and daily sleep. Sleepiness was surveyed by using the Karolinska Sleepiness Scale and daily sleep was captured by using sleep diary. A total of 255 employees provided valid data for analysis. To test the hypothesis, statistical analysis was conducted using IBM SPSS program version 24. Sleepiness among shift workers found to be increased by the end of the shift. Around 30% of workers did not have an adequate amount of daily sleep. Sleepiness was found to have significant associations with age, marital status, level of education, time of shift, and working experience. Meanwhile, the amount of daily sleep obtained was only significantly associated with the age of the respondents. There is no significant relationship found between sleepiness and daily sleep of the shift workers. Shift workers in the electronics manufacturing industry in Malaysia were exposed to sleepiness at work and reduction in their daily sleep. This will increase the risk of an accident in the workplace. Appropriate intervention program should be implemented to curb this problem.
STUDY OF CYBERSICKNESS ON NON-IMMERSIVE VIRTUAL REALITY USING SMARTPHONE
Authors: Hartomo Soewardi  , Muhamad Nashirulhaqi Izzuddin
Published: August 2020

Cybersickness is one of the psycho-physiological responses affecting human performances when it is interacting with Virtual Environment. Virtual Environment (VE) is an advanced technological model generated by computer which allows users feel the real-life presence like that in the real environment. However the repetitive exposure to VE causes sickness, especially the eyestrain when the eyes are forced to make an accommodation and focus on the virtual object. This symptom can be identified on the eye’s movement and the eyes muscle contraction. Thus, it is considered significant to evaluate the contraction of eye’s muscle. The objective of this study is to analyse the eyestrain in the constant use of smartphone for playing the war game. Empirical study was conducted to gather the relevant data. Ten subjects, who were familiar with the war game, were involved in this study. Electromyography (EMG) was used to record the signal of muscle contraction on lateral eyes muscle. Statistical analysis was conducted to test the hypothesis. The result of this study showed that there was a significant difference in visual acuity between normal brightness and 0% brightness and 100% brightness of smartphone while sitting in operating. There was also significant difference in visual acuity between the normal brightness 0%, 50%, and 100% of brightness depending on the lying down position. As for the higher contraction on lateral rectus muscle of the eyes occurred in lying down position than in sitting position at any level of brightness.
THE PROCESS OF DESIGNING SPECIAL WHEEL CHAIR FOR PEOPLE WITH PHYSICAL DISABILITIES
Authors: Mohd HO  , Marzuki I  , Ahmad FA  , Imran A  , Muhammad SA  , Sheikh ATSY
Published: August 2020

There is a need to design and develop an affordable motorized vehicle for better mobility among physical disabilities. This study aimed is to initiate appropriate and affordable materials to develop an accessible motorized wheelchair. It includes the feasibility study of the existing used wheelchair, the system used and the characteristic of the physical disabilities symptom. Through the observation, an existing motorized wheelchair uses stainless steel as the main structure, manipulating the shelves heavy-duty accessories, electrical component, heavy-duty battery and car pulley system in which the weight accumulates approximately 100 kg. The heavyweight wheelchair cannot be folded and put inside the car. It also needs to have a special carrier to carry the wheelchair. The field research has also been conducted to evaluate the existing wheelchair system in the market with various systems used, components, and motors material used in the area of technical, usability and comfort before start to redesigning the wheelchair. The results of the study would include the background needs of the characteristic of physical disabilities. The available high-grade aluminium materials will be used to support the mobility and their relevant properties. The design will be done all the way and the specification will be used as an instrument data for the motorized vehicle. The selection of design features, documentation of design procedures and results will be used to create a P.O.C (Prove of Concept) prototype for the meant vehicle. The user will use the preliminary prototyping test and the data (result) will be used to improvise the wheelchair prototype. The second improvised prototype will undergo the second user testing in the area of reliability, stabilization of system, and ease of usage. The results expected will be observed and tested by the user to lead towards the recommendation of the motorized wheelchair design.
WHIPLASH INJURY MECHANISMS OF CAR REAR OCCUPANTS: A REVIEW
Authors: Akmal Nur Haniffah  , Siti Zawiah Dawal  , Sabariah Julaihi
Published: August 2020

Whiplash injury due to low severity vehicles crash is a global problem. The injury has long-term clinical and biomechanical implications. Since the mid-1960s, injury statistics have continuously revealed that females face a higher risk of suffering the injury category compare to males. Besides, in a frontal crash, the injury measures from the adult rear dummies were mainly higher than the same size dummies located in driver and front occupant seat. However, most regulations and user crash tests have focused on vehicle drivers and front-seat passenger due to high occupancy and mortality rates in the front seat. In this paper, mechanisms of whiplash injury were reviewed to contribute a further inclusive understanding of human impact reaction, variability quantification, validation, and prevention. The objective of this study is to develop a new design of head restraint (HR) for car rear occupants. In order to raise consideration whiplash injury and prevention mechanisms, impacts are simulated with computer modelling (Ls-Dyna simulation) and validated using Matlab. Therefore, a review of these injury mechanisms indicates the development of new anti-whiplash technology in the automotive safety area is necessary.
WORKSTATION WITH ERGONOMIC FEATURES FOR UNIVERSITI KUALA LUMPUR MIDI CLASSROOM
Authors: M.S. Shukri  , Z.A. Muhammad Akif  , J. Arif Affendi
Published: August 2020

This paper presents a design process of workstation with ergonomic features for University Kuala Lumpur MIDI Classroom. The workstation is expected to support body posture, with the aim to increase comfortability of a user usage for long periods in a class. Besides that, the workstation will ensure a conducive and responsive learning environment. Discomfort and an improper position can negatively affect overall health and productivity. A new design of workstation, which allows user to sit in ideal sitting position suggested by ergonomist and easy transition from one teaching mode to the next. The researcher has designed and developed a new workstation which has ideal ergonomic sitting working position and capable accommodate 50th percentile human size. These positions were used to evaluate the comfort of the workstation. Subjective evaluations, including comparison of the prototype and standard workstation setup, were carried out using human subjects and ergonomic principles. Result showed that the new workstation is much more comfortable, supporting the body in a balanced way. Users have the freedom to stretch and relax in different working positions before they feel any noticeable discomfort. As a result, it lets user sit for a longer period without strain, thus resulting in higher productivity and concentration in classroom.
THE COGNITIVE IMPPAIRMENT AND ITS RELATED FACTORS AMONG FACTORS AMONG ELDERLY HYPERTENSIVE IN TWO RURAL DISTRICTS AREAS, MALAYSIA
Authors: Mohamad Rodi Isa  , Siti Munira Yasin  , Mariam Mohamad  , Zaliha Ismail  , Zahir izuan Azhar
Published: August 2020

As cognition declines with age, cognitive impairment rates are expected to increase ranging from 100% to 300% in this region. It could be higher among elderly who had any chronic diseases. The aim of the present work was to determine the prevalence and associated factors of cognitive impairment among elderly with hypertension. A clinic-based, cross-sectional study was conducted at several community clinics in Sabak Bernam and Hilir Perak districts from July to December 2015. A total of  480 patients were recruited. The prevalence of cognitive impairment was 13.13% (95%CI: 13.11, 13.15). Factors associated with cognitive impairment among elderly hypertensive were no formal educational level [OR: 3.95 (95%CI: 1.80, 8.67)]; history of high cholesterol [OR: 3.24 (95%CI: 1.15, 9.16)]; underweight [adj. OR: 4.88 (95%CI: 1.34, 17.67)]; and increasing age [OR: 1.03 (95%CI: 1.01, 1.06)]. Public health policy makers and geriatric practitioners should emphasise on early cognitive function assessment among elderlies who are hypertensive, unemployed, poor educational background, males, high cholesterol level and underweight to enhance the quality of geriatric services. Earlier establishment of diagnosis may prevent from greater rate of decline in cognitive functioning among this vulnerable group.
THE RELATIONSHIP BETWEEN SOCIOECONOMIC STATUS AND KNOWLEDGE ON CARDIOVASCULAR RISK FACTORS AND ITS PREVENTIVE PRACTICES AMONG URBAN DWELLERS IN SELANGOR, MALAYSIA
Authors: Siti Munira Yasin  , Mohamad Rodi Isa  , Nurhuda Ismail  , Leny Suzana Suddin  , Mohammad Shahril Ahmad Saman  , Zaliha Ismail
Published: August 2020

To assess knowledge, practices on cardiovascular disease (CVD) prevention and practices among an urban population in Selangor. A cross-sectional household survey was conducted involving 336 adults in 161 houses randomly selected from three towns in Selangor, Malaysia. The mean knowledge of cardiovascular risk factors was moderately high among participants. Socioeconomic characteristics (SES) significantly associated with higher mean scores were being in middle age, female, high-income group and never smokers. Although the general knowledge on preventing cardiovascular risks among the urban population was moderately high, their lifestyle practices on preventing cardiovascular disease were moderate.
HOW EFFECTIVELY DO COMMUNITY HEALTH WORKERS SPREAD HEALTH AWARENESS VIA WOMEN’S SELF-HELP GROUPS IN RURAL INDIA?
Authors: J. Sophie von Lieres  , Anish K. Abraham  , Renu Raveendran
Published: August 2020

In many lower- and middle-income countries, the public health system is made more accessible in rural areas through training lay people to become community health workers (CHWs) within their communities. This mixed-methods study aims to evaluate such a CHW program in rural Uttarkashi, India, which is being run by a non-government organization (NGO). In the CHW program to be evaluated, the CHWs give monthly health awareness classes during women’s self-help group (SHG) meetings. By involving women’s SHGs, community participation is supposed to be fostered and health knowledge spread. Therefore, it was hypothesized that communities with an active CHW should achieve a higher number of correct answers on a health knowledge test than communities without an active CHW. Moreover, using qualitative methods, we explored the SHG members’ and CHWs’ viewpoints on the impact of the awareness classes held during SHG meetings. Five focus group discussions were conducted with members of SHGs, as well as with NGO-trained CHWs and government-employed CHWs. Results confirmed that the respondents from a community with an NGO-trained CHW performed significantly better on the health knowledge test, although not uniformly across all sampling areas. The qualitative data revealed a substantial impact of the health awareness classes on behavior changes among SHG members and their families. Further, the NGO-trained CHWs collaborated well with other government-employed CHWs. In conclusion, the authors feel that is would be worthwhile to employ more NGO-run CHW programs throughout India, to supplement the government-run programs, especially in remote and underserviced areas.
WEIGHT MANAGEMENT: NEED ASSESSMENT FOR HEALTH EDUCATIONAL MODULE DEVELOPMENT AMONG PRIMARY SCHOOL CHILDREN
Authors: Norimah Said  , Norazmir Md Nor  , Siti Khuzaimah Ahmad Sharoni  , Siti Sabariah Buhari  , Nurul Fadly Habidin
Published: August 2020

The prevalence of overweight and obesity among school children are increasing in developing countries, including Malaysia. The aim of this study was carried out the need assessment and to determine the nutritional knowledge, attitude, and physical activity among primary school children for the purpose of health education module development on childhood weight management among primary school children. This study was employed cross-sectional design with a probability of 202 school children aged ten years old. The result shows that majority of primary school children choose food that high in carbohydrate, sodium, and saturated fat. Thus, reflect to the lack of nutrition knowledge. Meanwhile, for the lowest choices were sugar intake and low-fat dairy product. The highest mean for nutritional attitude is primary school children chose to drink 100% fruit juice (mean=81 ± 0.97), and the lowest mean was eating wheat bread (mean=2.25 ± 1.16). The highest mean for sedentary activity was watching the television show during weekdays (mean 4.02 ± 1.17). The result shows the children need education on the nutritional fact in their food like carbohydrate, sodium and saturated fat, physical activity, and information to avoid a sedentary lifestyle.