bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
(Ir)reconcilable differences? Local reactions to provincial neoliberal educational reform
Authors: Shoveller Jean , Elliott Danielle , Johnson Joy
Published: July 2017

In this case study, we explore the intersections of neoliberal educational reform and the everyday experiences of people living in a rural region in northern British Columbia, Canada. Reflecting on the provincial Ministry of Education's Strategic Plan, we explore one region's responses to a set of provincial promises, which include providing regional school districts with more autonomy and control over the delivery of education services and a mandate for a balanced budget. The region faced declining student enrolments and funding shortfalls. As a cost-saving measure, the local school district in the region launched a four-day school week. We used ethnographic fieldwork techniques to examine a set of local practices and consequences that arose following the implementation of this measure. The findings demonstrate how provincial promises of educational reform can conflict with local educational needs and create a set of problematic everyday realities with repercussions on youth health, amplifying health inequalities that are irreconcilable with the purported goals of advancing the interests of students and society.
Revitalising the evidence base for public health: an assets model
Authors: Morgan Antony , Ziglio Erio
Published: July 2017

Historically, approaches to the promotion of population health have been based on a deficit model. That is, they tend to focus on identifying the problems and needs of populations that require professional resources and high levels of dependence on hospital and welfare services. These deficit models are important and necessary to identify levels of needs and priorities. But they need to be complemented by some other perspectives as they have some drawbacks. Deficit models tend to define communities and individuals in negative terms, disregarding what is positive and works well in particular populations. In contrast `assets' models tend to accentuate positive capability to identify problems and activate solutions. They focus on promoting salutogenic resources that promote the self esteem and coping abilities of individuals and communities, eventually leading to less dependency on professional services.

Much of the evidence available to policy makers to inform decisions about the most effective approaches to promoting health and to tackling health inequities is based on a deficit model and this may disproportionately lead to policies and practices which disempower the populations and communities who are supposed to benefit from them. An assets approach to health and development embraces a `salutogenic' notion of health creation and in doing so encourages the full participation of local communities in the health development process.

The asset model presented here aims to revitalise how policy makers, researchers and practitioners think and act to promote a more resourceful approach to tackling health inequities. The model outlines a systematic approach to asset based public health which can provide scientific evidence and best practice on how to maximise the stock of key assets necessary for promoting health. Redressing the balance between the assets and deficit models for evidence based public health could help us to unlock some of the existing barriers to effective action on health inequities. This re-balancing would help in better understanding the factors that influence health and what can be done about them. It would promote a positive and inclusive approach to action. (Promotion & Education, 2007, Supplement (2): pp 17-22).
Enabling health systems transformation: what progress has been made in re-orienting health services?
Authors: Wise Marilyn , Nutbeam Don
Published: July 2017

The Ottawa Charter has been remarkably influential in guiding the development of the goals and concepts of health promotion, and in shaping global public health practice in the past 20 years. However, of the five action areas identified in the Ottawa Charter, it appears that there has been little systematic attention to the challenge of re-orienting health services, and less than optimal progress in practice.

The purposes of re-orienting health services as proposed in the Ottawa Charter were to achieve a better balance in investment between prevention and treatment, and to include a focus on population health outcomes alongside the focus on individual health outcomes.

However, there is little evidence that a re-orientation of health services in these terms has occurred systematically anywhere in the world. This is in spite of the fact that direct evidence of the need to re-orient health services and of the potential benefits of doing so has grown substantially since 1986. Patient education, preventive care (screening, immunisation), and organisational and environmental changes by health organisations have all been found to have positive health and environmental outcomes. However, evidence of effectiveness has not been sufficient, on its own, to sway community preferences and political decisions.

The lack of progress points to the need for significant re-thinking of the approaches we have adopted to date. The paper proposes a number of ways forward. These include working effectively in partnership with the communities we want to serve to mobilise support for change, and to reinforce this by working more effectively at influencing broader public opinion through the media. The active engagement of clinical health professionals is also identified as crucial to achieving sustainable change. Finally we recognize that by working in partnership with like-minded advocacy organizations, the IUHPE could put its significant knowledge and experience to work in leading action to transform health care systems to make a major contribution to the improvement of public health. (Promotion & Education, 2007, Supplement (2): pp 23-27).
Restructuring of the Québec Health Network and its Effects on the Profession of Home Health Aides and their Occupational Health and Safety
Authors: Cloutier Esther , Ledoux Elise , Bourdouxhe Madeleine , David Hélène , Gagnon Isabelle , Quellet François
Published: July 2017

The Québec health sector is facing profound macroeconomic and macro-organizational changes. This article addresses the impact of these changes on the work of home health aides (HHAs) and their occupational health and safety (OHS). The study was carried out in the home care services of four local community service centers (CLSCs) with different organizational characteristics. It is based on an analysis by triangulation of 66 individual and group interviews, 11 work days, and 35 multidisciplinary or professional meetings observed, as well as administrative documents. HHAs are experiencing an erosion of their job because the relational and emotional components of their work are disappearing. This results in an increase in musculoskeletal and psychological health problems. This study also shows that managers’ decisions can reduce or increase the HHAs’ work constraints. Stability in the clientele served and the possibility of organizing their routes are good examples of positive impacts.
Is Work in Education Child's Play? Understanding Risks to Educators Arising from Work Organization and Design of Work Spaces
Authors: Seifert Ana María
Published: July 2017

The educational sector exposes its primarily female work force to numerous psychosocial risk factors. At the request of the education workers', ergonomists developed a participatory research project in order to understand the determinants of the difficulties experienced by special education technicians. These technicians work with students presenting behavioral and learning difficulties as well as developmental and mental health problems. Eighteen technicians were interviewed and the work of seven technicians and two teachers was observed. Technicians prevent and manage crisis situations and help students acquire social skills. Coordination with teachers is made difficult by the fact that most technicians work part time, part year, and many technicians’ work areas and classrooms are physically distant one from another. Most technicians change schools each year and must continually reconstruct work teams. Management strategies and poorly adapted working spaces can have important repercussions on coordination among educators and on technicians’ capacity to help students and prevent aggressive behavior.
Use of Prescription Medications in an Elderly Rural Population: The Movies Project
Authors: Lassila Holly C , Stoehr Gary P , Ganguli Mary , Seaberg Eric C , Gilby Joanne E , Belle Steven H , Echement Deborah A , Morand Brenda R , Demers Denyse
Published: July 2017

Objective

To determine the pharmacoepidemiology of prescription drug use in a rural elderly community sample, specifically the numbers and categories of medications taken and the factors associated with them.

Design

Cross-sectional community survey.

Setting

The mid-Monongahela Valley of southwestern Pennsylvania.

Participants

An age-stratified random sample of 1360 community-dwelling individuals, aged 65 years and older.

Measures

Self-reported use of prescription drugs, demographic characteristics, and use of health services.

Results

Nine hundred sixty-seven participants (71%) reported regularly taking at least one prescription medication and 157 (10%) reported taking five or more medications (median 2.0, range 0–13). Women took significantly more medications than men (median 2.0, range 0–13 and median 1.0, range 0–9, respectively; p = 0.01). The use of a greater number of medications was independently and statistically significantly associated with older age, hospitalization within the previous 6 months, home health care in previous year, visit to a physician within the previous year, and insurance coverage for prescription medication. Individuals older than 85 years were significantly more likely to be taking cardiovascular agents, anticoagulants, vasodilating agents, diuretics, and potassium supplements. Significantly more women than men were taking nonsteroidal antiinflammatory drugs, antidepressants, potassium supplements, and thyroid replacement medications.

Conclusions

Both the number and the types of prescription medications vary with age and gender. The demographic and health service use variables associated with greater medication use in the community may help define high-risk groups for polypharmacy and adverse drug reactions. Longitudinal studies are needed.
Sequential Parenteral and Oral Ciprofloxacin Regimen versus Parenteral Therapy for Bacteremia: A Pharmacoeconomic Analysis
Authors: Amodio-Groton Maria , Madu Assumpta , Madu Christian N , Briceland Laurie L , Seligman Marissa , McMaster Pamela , Miller Michael H , Monsanto Homero A , Mailhot Claude
Published: July 2017

Objective

To compare, in patients with gram-negative bacteremia, a course of parenteral antibiotic therapy alone with initial parenteral therapy followed by oral ciprofloxacin in terms of the length of hospitalization, clinical effectiveness, toxicity, and cost.

Design

A prospective, controlled, randomized, open trial in select hospitalized patients.

Setting

Large metropolitan teaching hospital.

Patients

Fifty hospitalized patients with proven gram-negative bacteremia were randomized to receive either oral ciprofloxacin (group 1) following a 72-hour initial intravenous antibiotic regimen or to continue parenteral therapy alone (group 2). To compare the length of hospitalization, an additional group of 50 hospitalized patients with bacteremia (not enrolled in the study, group 3) were analyzed.

Intervention

Parenteral antibiotics for 72 hours followed by continuation of a parenteral regimen or oral ciprofloxacin 750 mg bid.

Main Outcome Measures

Clinical response, toxicity, and length of hospitalization.

Results

Clinical resolution was comparable in the 24 group 1 patients receiving intravenous antibiotics followed by oral ciprofloxacin (83%), the 26 group 2 patients receiving parenteral therapy alone (77%), and the 50 comparison patients (76%). There was little toxicity noted in any group, and the initial parenteral antibiotic regimens were similar. The mean numbers of hospital days on antibiotics were 9.1, 11.2, and 10.6 days in groups 1, 2, and 3, respectively (p < 0.05 for group 1 vs. group 2 or 3), and the lengths of hospitalization were 9.8, 15.7, and 12.1 days, respectively (p < 0.05 for group 1 vs. group 2 or 3). Shortening the length of hospitalization and days of antibiotic therapy was associated with a cost savings of up to $78 000 for group 1 patients.

Conclusions

Parenteral therapy for 72 hours followed by oral ciprofloxacin significantly shortened both the number of hospital days taking antibiotics and the length of stay compared with parenteral therapy alone. Both regimens were equally effective and safe in the therapy of gram-negative bacteremia, and initial parenteral therapy followed by oral ciprofloxacin was cost-effective.
Intravenous Amiodarone: Pharmacology, Pharmacokinetics, and Clinical use
Authors: Chow Moses Ss , Monsanto Homero A , Plante Michèle
Published: July 2017

Objective

To review the clinical pharmacology, pharmacokinetics, and clinical efficacy and safety of intravenous amiodarone.

Data Identification

Articles were identified through a computer search of the English-language literature using MEDLINE (KR Information OnDisc) and the search term amiodarone. Additional articles were identified through examination of the bibliographies of the articles initially retrieved.

Study Selection

Relevant or representative animal studies, clinical trials, and case reports were selected for evaluation. Particular emphasis was placed on studies pertaining to the use of intravenous amiodarone in treatment-refractory ventricular fibrillation (VF) and hemodynamically unstable ventricular tachycardia (VT).

Data Extraction

The literature was assessed for adequate description of patients, study methodologies (e.g., study design, number of patients), and outcomes.

Data Synthesis

Amiodarone is an unusual class III antiarrhythmic that produces each of the four main types of antiarrhythmic action in addition to other effects, such as vasodilatory, selective antithyroid, and other activities that may be therapeutically relevant. Amiodarone pharmacokinetics demonstrate extensive interpatient variability and are characterized by wide tissue distribution (steady-state volume of distribution 40–84 L/kg), slow total body clearance (90–158 mL/h/kg), long terminal elimination half-life (20–47 d), and extensive hepatic metabolism. The onset of maximal antiarrhythmic effect is a function of both amiodarone dosage and time. The high plasma concentrations achieved with intravenous dosing do not fully replicate the electrophysiologic effects observed following long-term oral administration, particularly with respect to class III activity. Available data suggest that intravenous amiodarone is associated with an efficacy rate of 50% or more in treatment-refractory VT/VF, and has a relatively rapid (2–24 h) onset of action. The drug is relatively well tolerated, but close hemodynamic, electrocardiographic, and hepatic function monitoring are required. The value of using amiodarone serum concentrations to guide therapy remains uncertain.

Conclusions

Intravenous amiodarone is an effective, relatively safe antiarrhythmic for the treatment of recurrent, hemodynamically unstable VT/VF refractory to other drug therapy in the acute care setting.
An Analysis of Iatrogenic Complications from the Total Contact Cast
Authors: Guyton Gregory P.
Published: July 2017

Background: Many physicians continue to fear iatrogenic complications of the total contact cast, and use of this modality has remained restricted to a segment of the orthopaedic and podiatric communities. I examined the actual rate of complications and the factors associated with them in a large consecutive series of total contact casts drawn from the practice of a single surgeon to determine whether this modality is safe for multiple conditions in the neuropathic foot and ankle. Method: A consecutive series of 398 total contact casts spanning a 28-month period from the practice of a single physician were analyzed. All casts were placed by the same team of orthotists. This study comprised 70 patients with severe peripheral neuropathy; an average of 5.69 sequential casts per patient were placed. Three-hundred and sixty-seven casts were placed in diabetic patients, and 31 in patients with idiopathic peripheral neuropathy. By protocol, the initial cast was changed at an interval of no more than 1 week. On occasion, subsequent casts were left on longer, but on average casts were left in place for 7.69 days. Logistic regression analysis was used to analyze the contribution of patient factors to the chance of ulceration. Results: Complications occurred in 22 casts, including six new pretibial ulcers, six new midfoot ulcers, four forefoot or toe ulcers, five hindfoot ulcers, and one malleolar ulcer. In no case was a preexisting ulcer made worse. This corresponds to an overall complication rate of 5.52% per cast. Overall, 30% of patients suffered one complication during the course of their treatment. With one exception, all new ulcers healed with simple modalities within 3 weeks, often with continued total contact casting. A single cast led to a proximal interphalangeal ulceration that exposed the joint and eventually required toe amputation. The rate of permanent sequelae from cast-related injuries was therefore 0.25%. In no case were the resultant odds ratios statistically different from 1.0, but several trends were observed. Charcot arthropathy represented the highest risk (odds ratio 1.46), while the presence of neuropathic ulceration was surprisingly benign (odds ratio 0.69). The presence of diabetes as opposed to other causes of neuropathy was associated with increased risk (odds ratio 1.34). The use of a cast after deformity-correcting surgery in a neuropathic patient was remarkably safe (odds ratio 0.44), as were casts in which the patient was instructed to remain nonweightbearing (odds ratio 0.27). Patient age was not a factor (odds ratio 1.03). The length of time the cast was left on was not statistically important (odds ratio 0.99), although strict protocols for cast changing likely altered this data. Conclusion: A frequently changed total contact cast is a safe modality for the offloading and immobilization of the neuropathic foot, albeit with an expected constant rate of minor, reversible complications. Patients should be informed of these complications and risks before cast application.
Cutaneous Thermal Sensitivity in Diabetic Neuropathy
Authors: Batista Fabio , Pinzur Michael S. , Nery Caio A.S.
Published: July 2017

Background: The goal of this investigation was to determine if cutaneous thermal sensitivity could be used as a discriminator of peripheral neuropathy in diabetic subjects who were sensate to the Semmes-Weinstein 5.07 monofilament. Methods: Sixty adult subjects were separated into two groups. The control group (A) was composed of 30 young healthy individuals without a history of diabetes. The focus group (B) was composed of 26 individuals with adult onset diabetes and four with juvenile onset. All of the subjects underwent thermal sensitivity testing in peripheral nerve root dermatomes of their hands and feet. Testing was performed with custom devices fabricated from materials with different thermal conduction capacities (copper, steel, glass, and plastic). Similar tests were performed with glass tubes containing heated or cooled water to develop a range of thermal sensitivity for the subjects. Results: There was a strong relationship between cold perception and stimulation with the copper probe in dermatomes of the radial nerve of the upper limb and the superficial peroneal dermatome of the lower limb. Conclusions: Thermal sensitivity to copper and cold stimulation may be more discriminative and have a higher threshold than sensitivity to the Semmes-Weinstein monofilament. This simple method may have a role in the early detection of peripheral neuropathy in adult-onset diabetes mellitus.
The Radiographic Morphology of Foot Deformities in Patients with Fibrodysplasia Ossificans Progressiva
Authors: Harrison Richard J. , Pitcher J. David , Mizel Mark S. , Temple H. Thomas , Scully Sean P.
Published: July 2017

Background: The most consistent deformities that allow early diagnosis of fibrodysplasia ossificans progressiva are the presence of bilateral short first rays and hallux valgus. The purpose of this study was to describe the radiographic features observed in the feet of patients with fibrodysplasia ossificans progressiva. Methods: The radiographs of 26 feet (15 patients with fibrodysplasia ossificans progressiva) were reviewed to evaluate the radiographic changes that occur in the first ray. Variables analyzed were the hallux valgus (HV) angle, the distal metatarsal articular (DMA) angle, the proximal phalangeal articular (PPA) angle, the intermetatarsal (IM) angle, ratio of the lengths of the first and second metatarsal lengths (MT1:MT2), and the first and second ray length ratio. The length ratios were then subtracted from similar ratios in radiographs of age- and gender-matched normal patients previously reported. Results: The proximal phalanx was consistently shortened but morphologically dissimilar from subject to subject. Asymmetry was noted in some patients with bilateral radiographs. The mean HV angle was 28 degrees, and the mean IM angle was 10 degrees. The mean DMA angle was 33 degrees, and the mean PPA angle was 14 degrees. The MT1:MT2 ratio was 0.89, and the mean first ray to second ray length ratio was 0.87. The mean of the differences in the MT1:MT2 and first and second ray length ratios in patients with fibrodysplasia ossificans progressiva compared to the normal controls were 0.05 and 0.01, respectively. Fusion occurred between the abnormal tibial epiphysis of the proximal phalanx and metatarsal head with advancing age, and 68% of the metatarsal heads were fused with the abnormal proximal phalangeal epiphysis. Conclusions: Foot pathology in patients with fibrodysplasia ossificans progressiva is variable but consistently involves an abnormality of the tibial aspect of the proximal phalangeal epiphysis of the hallux. This results in the clinical observation of hallux valgus in these patients. The first metatarsal is consistently shortened, and fusion between the epiphysis of the abnormal proximal phalanx and the shortened first metatarsal head occurs with advancing age.
The Peroneal Tubercle: Description, Classification, and Relevance to Peroneus Longus Tendon Pathology
Authors: Hyer Christopher F. , Dawson John M. , Philbin Terrence M. , Berlet Gregory C. , Lee Thomas H.
Published: July 2017

Background: The size and configuration of the peroneal tubercle has been implicated in the pathogenesis of peroneal tendon tears and tenosynovitis. The purpose of this study was to determine the size and prevalence of the peroneal tubercle and devise a classification scheme according to the structure of the tubercle. Methods: One hundred and seventeen calcanei were selected from 59 human skeletons in an osteological collection (one calcaneus was missing). Three were excluded because of the poor condition, leaving 114 calcanei. The peroneal tubercle was measured in length, height, and depth and its structure subjectively described as flat, prominent, concave, or tunnel for each specimen when present. Results: This study revealed a peroneal tubercle prevalence of 90.4% (103) in 114 calcanei. The average length, height, and depth of the tubercle were 13.04 mm (range 3.61 mm to 26.66 mm), 9.44 mm (range 3.67 mm to 23.40 mm), and 3.13 mm (range 1 to 10), respectively. The peroneal tubercle was classified structurally as flat in 44 (42.7%), prominent in 30 (29.1%), concave in 28 (27.2%), and tunnel in one (1.0%). Conclusion: This data may further help to understand the size and assorted configurations of the peroneal tubercle and how they relate to peroneus longus tendon pathology.
Poor Agreement Between Prospective and Retrospective Assessment of Hallux Surgery Using the AOFAS Hallux Scale
Authors: Schneider Wolfgang , Knahr Karl
Published: July 2017

Background: Retrospective assessment of preoperative status is common in nonprospective study designs. The aim of this study was to test the hypothesis that prospective and retrospective evaluations of the preoperative patient condition in hallux surgery gives equal results and therefore can be used interchangeably. Methods: One hundred and fifty-nine consecutive feet with hallux surgery were analyzed prospectively. Parallel to routine evaluation of the preoperative status, the AOFAS Hallux Scale was recorded prospectively. Two years after surgery, the medical records were re-evaluated for retrospective reconstruction of the AOFAS score. Simultaneously all patients were asked to assess their preoperative status retrospectively. Results: Using the medical charts for retrospective assessments, the preoperative status was estimated too low compared to prospective evaluation. This effect was even more pronounced with the patients' own retrospective assessment of their preoperative status. Linear regression coefficient for prospective and retrospective data showed moderate correlation with r = 0.59 for the AOFAS Score using the medical charts and poor correlation of r = 0.24 using the patients' own retrospective assessments. Spearman's rank correlation index was p = 0.57 and p = 0.23, respectively. The coefficient of repeatability according to Bland and Altman was 25.7 and 48.7 points, respectively, for the AOFAS score. The difference between the mean values of prospective and retrospective assessment was 5.6 (13.0) points. This means that a retrospectively evaluated AOFAS Score may be 31.3 points below or 20.1 points above prospective assessments (61.6 points below or 35.7 points above compared to the patients' own retrospective self-assessments). Agreement between individual items using Kappa statistics showed poor results except for metatarsophalangeal joint motion. Conclusions: Prospectively and retrospectively evaluated AOFAS scores cannot be used interchangeably for clinical outcome evaluations. Retrospective scoring gives worse results even when evaluated using conscientiously recorded medical charts and therefore leads to overestimation of the effect of surgery. These data support prospective study designs to ensure the best outcome analysis for clinical evaluation of hallux surgery.
The Midtarsal Joint Locking Mechanism
Authors: Blackwood C. Brian , Yuen Tracy J. , Sangeorzan Bruce J. , Ledoux William R.
Published: July 2017

Background: The midtarsal joint, consisting of the talonavicular and the calcaneocuboid joints, is presumed to be responsible for the foot being both flexible and rigid during different parts of the stance phase of gait. However, this mechanism has never been well quantified. This study explores the midtarsal joint locking mechanism by comparing the effect of hindfoot inversion and eversion on midfoot and forefoot mobility. Methods: Motion of the tibia, talus, calcaneus, navicular, cuboid and the first, second, and fifth metatarsals were measured in nine cadaver feet using Polhemus Fastrak® electromagnetic sensors (EST GmbH & Co. KG, Kaiserslautern, Germany). The talus was fixed to the tibia, and then the forefoot was maximally dorsiflexed, plantarflexed, inverted, and everted, with the hindfoot in maximal eversion and inversion, for a total of eight test positions. The range of motion of the individual bones between maximal forefoot dorsiflexion and plantarflexion and between maximal forefoot inversion and eversion was calculated for the hindfoot in maximal eversion and inversion. Results: For the range of motion from maximal dorsiflexion to maximal plantarflexion there was significantly increased movement of the first, second, and fifth metatarsals in the sagittal plane ( p-value = 0.003, 0.007, and 0.002, respectively) when the calcaneus was maximally everted compared to when the calcaneus was maximally inverted. No significant differences were detected for the range of motion from forefoot inversion to eversion for the two hindfoot positions. Conclusions: This study demonstrated that motion in the forefoot is influenced by hindfoot position through the midtarsal joint. Specifically, the sagittal plane range of motion of the metatarsals is increased when the hindfoot is in valgus.
Why are We Able to See Real-World Scenes So Quickly? An Investigation of the Role of Expectancy and Familiarity
Authors: Teitelbaum Richard C. , Mezzanotte Robert J. , Biederman Irving
Published: July 2017

Subjects performed a task which allowed measurement of their speed of comprehension of real-world scenes: They attempted to detect the incongruity in the relationship between an object and its context. In 100 msec, presentations of line drawings of real-world scenes, objects could be inappropriately positioned (e.g., a fire hydrant on top of a mailbox), sized (e.g., the hydrant looking larger than a truck) or floating in air. Detection times were not significantly affected by priming the subject with a verbal label of the scene prior to its viewing (e.g., telling him he was going to see a “kitchen”) but were significantly affected by the prior presentation of the scene upwards of 30 trials earlier. The results document a remarkably efficient, content addressable, accessing mechanism for visual recognition in humans.
Control Logic Design Criteria for Multifunction Switching Devices
Authors: Calhoun Gloria L.
Published: July 2017

Since multifunction switching is a relatively new concept in controls technology, many design questions unique to this type of control need to be addressed. Research was conducted to determine pilot acceptability and useability of a panel of multifunction switches for aircraft applications. Many of the design criteria identified during the studies as critical to the optimization of switch/function assignment and determination of operator selections required to perform tasks will be presented.
Target-Terrain Classification and Detection Performance
Authors: Olzak Lynn A.
Published: July 2017

The interactive effects of target and background characteristics were investigated. Five multiple-vehicle target conditions that varied in number and configuration were embedded into oblique aerial photographs of real terrain. Target proximity to roads was manipulated, and terrain complexity was evaluated by a subjective scale of scene heterogeneity. Results indicated that performance improved as the number of vehicles comprising a target increased. An interaction between number of vehicles and proximity to roads suggested that local context is a relatively more important performance predictor when searching for single-vehicle targets than when searching for multiple-vehicle targets. The heterogeneity measure was found to be an inadequate predictor of detection performance, and some alternatives are discussed.
Time Estimation as a Technique to Measure Workload
Authors: Gunning David
Published: July 2017

A secondary task which involves time estimation was used as a measure of workload in a flight simulation study. The results of the time estimation task were compared with performance scores and subjective workload ratings to evaluate the adequacy of the task. The successes and failures of the technique are discussed.
Human Resource Conservation in Crude-Oil Recovery
Authors: Brauer Mark M.
Published: July 2017

Human resource conservation is capable of being achieved along with energy resource conservation. The Crude-Oil Recovery Process (CORP) uses a single inerting/cleaning agent in a waterless, self-contained, closed-loop, remote-controlled and superport compatible system that eliminates human in-tank “mucking”. By using vaporous agent for inerting during discharge/refill operations, system safety is significantly increased. The same agent, in its liquid state, is used as an effective cleaning agent. CORP eliminates expensive and hazardous gas-freeing procedures and facilitates recovery of otherwise-lost agent and energy resources, while reducing air and water pollution, and improving human safety, morale, and growth potential.
Tests to Distinguish between “True” and “Faked” Maximum Muscle Strength Exertions
Authors: Marras W.S.
Published: July 2017

A problem within the industrial setting for many years, has been that of determining whether certain injured workers were truly incapable of performing physically exertive tasks or whether they were exhibiting less than genuine exertions. Experiments were performed to provide testing criteria for this distinction. Six subjects were assigned to a “Maximal” group, and were asked to exert 50%, 75%, and 100% of their true maximum strength. Six different subjects were assigned to the “Submaximal” group and were asked to subjectively set a submaximal level of exertion and exhibit 50%, 75%, and 100% of this level. The experimenters were “blind”, in that they did not know to which group each subject was assigned. The data was analyzed to test two hypotheses. First, it was suspected that the variability of the Submaximal group would be greater, in relation to the percentage level of strength, as compared with the Maximal group. Second, the slope of the strength formation curve was believed to correlate with the percentage of true strength exerted. Significant slope-strength correlations were found, whereas, the findings of the variability were less conclusive.
Continuing Research in Job Performance Aids: The Interaction of Speed Stress and Media
Authors: Smillie Robert J.
Published: July 2017

Twenty-seven male subjects were separated into one of four experimental groups and performed a series of five tasks using either an all-print JPA or an all-pictorial JPA. The task series was performed under both a speed stress condition and a non-stress condition. Subjects who completed the task series while referencing an all-pictorial JPA worked faster under speed stress (70 sec) than without speed stress (98 sec). Performance of the same task series with an all-print JPA was unaffected by stress. Accuracy of response decreased in both the print-stress and pictorial-stress conditions when compared to their respective non-stress conditions. The only differences between performances with print and pictorial JPAs occurred in the stress conditions. Results were compared to past research and related to the impact on JPA designers.
Feedback as an Energy Conservation Strategy
Authors: Seligman Clive
Published: July 2017

A great deal of psychological research has suggested that giving immediate feedback to an individual on the effects of his actions enables him better to control his actions. The application of this idea to the reduction of energy consumption is clear. In general homeowners are motivated by cost and other pressures to reduce their home energy consumption. Therefore, if they are given daily feedback on their actual energy consumption, this ought to enable them to better control their consumption rates. Why should feedback have this effect? First, since most homeowners are unaware of the amount of energy they use (the monthly utility bill is not clear or detailed enough to be very helpful), feedback provides information about energy usage. Second, frequent feedback indicates the success of various attempted conservation strategies; it can lead the homeowner to discover and to maintain conservation habits.
Review of Effects of Alcohol and other Licit Drugs on Driving-Related Performance
Authors: Howat Peter A. , Mortimer Rudolf G.
Published: July 2017

A review is presented of the effects of alcohol and licit drugs on performance related to driving. About 20% of persons of driving age use some licit drug, while a much greater percentage drink alcohol. Alcohol is used in combination with another licit drug by about 10% of persons of driving age. Alcohol is associated with about 50% of fatal traffic accidents, 30% of injury accidents and 10% of non-injury accidents. Other licit drugs, such as diazepam, are involved in about 20% of non-fatal accidents. Alcohol combined with other licit drugs, such as diazepam, is involved in about 10% of injury accidents.

The effects of alcohol on driving-related skills is relatively well-documented, but tests on the effects of other licit drugs present variable findings. There is some research which indicates additive or synergistic effects when alcohol is combined with other drugs.

Research to date on the effects of licit drugs alone, and in combination with alcohol, has many limitations. There have been comparatively few studies to test decision-making and perceptual-motor skills, such as used in driving or those involving actual driving tasks.

However, studies indicate that when combined with alcohol, some licit drugs lead to a deterioration in driving-related performance, but a need exists for further research involving more complex driving-related tests and actual driving situations.
Thermoregulatory Considerations for Safely Running Long-Distance Races in Hot, Humid Conditions
Authors: Duncan J. R. , Squires W. G. , Gregory W. B. , Jessup G. T.
Published: July 2017

Two male, unacclimitized distance runners, ages 29 and 45, ran on a treadmill at speeds of 176 and 135 m/min, respectively, and 3% grade for 60 min. in eight controlled hot environments. Combinations of five levels of ambient water vapor pressure (15, 18, 23, 26.5 and 29 mm Hg) and four levels of dry-bulb temperature (30.6, 34.2, 37.2 and 40.6°C) in the vicinity of a WBGT line of 28°C were controlled to evaluate their effects on the runners' physiological responses of heart rate, sweat loss, rectal temperature, skin temperatures, respiration rate, and oxygen uptake. The findings indicate that the WBGT index is not adequate as a criterion for evaluating distance runners' responses to heat (i.e., conditions of equal values of WBGT did not produce equivalent physiological responses) and there are conditions beyond the 28°C WBGT line (a recommended guideline) for which acceptable steady-state responses were approached.
A Computer Aided Design Strategy Incorporating Two-Level Fractional Factorials
Authors: Knight James
Published: July 2017

Finding suitable subjects for a design can be difficult when subject attributes, coded 0, 1, are treated as independent variables. A design strategy is presented which requires: 1) a historical data base describing each subject by a 0, 1 k-tuple, 2) a ranking of the subject attributes in order of perceived (a priori) importance, and 3) a computerized search algorithm that determines the maximum number of attributes which can be simultaneously considered in a two-level orthogonal fractional factorial given the ranking of attributes and the listing of available subjects. The algorithm can solve many practical problems in reasonable computation time. An application is demonstrated.
Anthropometric Resources vs. Civilian Needs
Authors: McConville John T.
Published: July 2017

For several decades after World War II, the only comprehensive source of body size data was that of large-scale anthropometric surveys of military personnel. While the range of most dimensions measured on military populations, both male and female, are comparable to those found in the overall U.S. population, self-selection or body size criteria dictated by particular jobs often result in considerable physical variability among occupational groups, a phenomenon which has been amply borne out by surveys of such diverse populations as law enforcement officers and airline stewardess trainees. It has become clear in the civilian sector that “all-purpose” body size data are often misleading and inadequate and that designers of clothing, equipment and workspaces are increasingly faced with the need for a wide assortment of differentiated data to meet many specialized needs. Resources will be explored and solutions suggested.
Toward the Collection of Critically Evaluated Ergonomics Data
Authors: Van Cott Harold P. , Kramer Joel J.
Published: July 2017

At the 1977 meeting of the HFS a concept was presented for a Standard Ergonomics Reference Data System. The system would have two goals (1) the critical evaluation and integration of data from the existing published ergonomics literature, and (2) the development and application of standard measurement methods to collect key ergonomics data representative of the U.S. population not found in the published literature in a reliable form. This presentation will cover progress made in 1978 to assess user data needs and develop critical evaluation criteria, in light of significant overall program planning changes.
Repeal and Modification of Mandatory Motorcycle Helmet Legislation
Authors: Lynn Cheryl W.
Published: July 2017

In 1975, Congress relieved the Secretary of Transportation of the power to impose sanctions upon states for not having a law requiring the use of helmets by motorcyclists. Shortly afterward, some of the states having such laws began repealing or modifying them. This paper reviews the available literature on the subject of mandatory motorcycle helmet legislation, and presents the results of a survey of states that have repealed their laws.

From the information available, it was determined that the use of motorcycle helmets reduces the incidence of serious and fatal head injury among motorcyclists without interfering with their ability to operate their vehicles safely. Additionally, it was determined that the mandatory motorcycle helmet laws are constitutional and that they have the support of both the general public and motorcyclists in Virginia.
Simulation of Highway Accidents
Authors: Parsons H. McIlvaine
Published: July 2017

Based on a new motivational model of driving and/or pedestrian behavior, a technique has been developed for simulating highway accidents to include both the favorable consequences of completing a trip without an accident and the unfavorable consequences (including injury and pain) of having one. Thereby trip-making, accident-avoidance behavior, and risk-taking behavior can be brought into the laboratory for experimental examination of variables that might make accidents less likely.

Appropriate simulation of vehicular accidents can bring them into the laboratory for experimental investigation of variables that could be manipulated on the highway to reduce accident frequency. Such simulation should include both making a trip and having an accident, including simulation of the accident's unfortunate effects on a driver (or pedestrian). Before I describe how these have been simulated in a laboratory environment, let us consider the premises on which the simulation is based.
Suspect Identification following Exposure to Sketches and Identi-Kit Composites
Authors: Laughery Kenneth R. , Smith Victoria L.
Published: July 2017

A facial recognition study explored the utility of two common image generation techniques—sketches and Identi-kit composites. Subjects saw an image (sketch or composite) and then attempted to select the target face in a series of photographs. The effect of image quality (goodness-of-fit of the image with the target person) was a second variable. Better images led to better recognition performance. Image type was marginally significant—sketches were better than composites. The results have implications for criminal identification systems.
Mopeds and Moped Legislation
Authors: Stoke Charles B.
Published: July 2017

The basic issue concerning mopeds is whether they should be considered as being bicyles—and, basically, be free of regulation, or as motorcycles—and thus be subject to all regulations applicable to motor vehicles. In an effort to resolve this issue, European accident data, Virginia crash data, and the laws of the several states were reviewed.

In terms of crash, injury, and fatality data, mopeds are more like motorcycles than bicycles. The laws of the various states lack a uniform approach in dealing with mopeds as a form of transportation. There is little agreement on the specific areas in which there is a need for regulation and how comprehensive this regulation should be.

From the review made for this study, it was recommended that a separate category of vehicles be established for mopeds, as they are neither bicycles or motorcycles. It was further recommended that the vehicles be registered, that their operators be licensed, that maximum allowable speed and horsepower be 30 mph and 1.5 bhp, and that liability insurance be made available for purchase by moped owners.
Reach Profiles for Males and Females under Restrained and Unrestrained Conditions
Authors: Asfour S. S. , Ayoub M. M. , Mital A. , Bethea N. J.
Published: July 2017

This paper provides reach envelope data based on samples of 25 males and 24 females between 18 and 42 years and 18 to 22 years of age respectively.
Anatomical Coordinate Systems for Human Body Segments
Authors: Padgaonkar Arvind J. , Lawson Shirley M. , King Albert I.
Published: July 2017

An anatomically based coordinate system is a useful tool for standardizing the placement of instrumentation on segments of the human body or human surrogate. It is suggested that this system be based upon a fixed set of anatomical landmarks that are easily located by palpation and/or x-ray. A set of coordinate systems for the head, torso and extremities is proposed. Such systems will aid investigators in comparing data acquired at different laboratories involved in impact injury research. These systems can also be used for accurately locating the center of gravity of a body segment and for describing body motion in an impact environment.
Functional Anthropometry
Authors: Kroemer K.H.E.
Published: July 2017

This paper discusses anthropometric information needed by the engineer in order to design technical systems, work stations, equipment, and tools to “fit” the human operator for maximal performance and safety. *Abridged from a paper submitted to NBS Center for Consumer Product Technology.
Habitability of the Elderly in Public Housing
Authors: Rohles Frederick H.
Published: July 2017

Using critical incident and activity analysis techniques, residents of a federally-financed public housing facility for the elderly were interviewed on all aspects of their living and living environment. Of the 49 items covered, the most critical in terms of habitability included the following: difficulty reaching top shelves, certain doors were too heavy to operate, lack of carpeting resulted in cold floors, windows were too high to see out of without standing, bathroom and showers were difficult to use, recreation centered around sing-a-longs, pot-luck dinners, and hobbies included sewing, knitting and crocheting. These and other factors that both enhance and deter the overall habitability of the living complex are discussed and their human factors implications are outlined in terms of four criteria: Performance, Independence, Affectivity, and Preference.
A Comparison of Natural and Structured Query Languages
Authors: Small Duane W. , Weldon Linda J.
Published: July 2017

It is often assumed that natural language would be the ideal user-oriented language for communicating with computers. However, languages structured to fit particular tasks may be easier to use. Twenty subjects solved a set of data retrieval problems on a computer terminal using English, and solved another set using SEQUEL, a structured query language. No differences in accuracy were observed. Problems were solved more quickly using SEQUEL, although only by those subjects whose English session preceded their SEQUEL session. The speed advantage of SEQUEL appeared primarily for problems concerned with structuring the data search, rather than for problems involving logical complexities in what was to be sought. The fact that the structured language provided advantages for those aspects of the task that were reflected in the language's syntax indicates that the conceptual aspects of language and problem structure, and not such general matters as length of commands, are responsible for the advantages of structured language.