bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
L'intégration de la prévention et de la promotion dans le systèmes de santé : quatre réalités, plusieurs similitudes
Authors: Bourdages Josée
Published: July 2017

Le Forum Dialogue sur les systèmes nationaux de santé tenu en marge du 2e Colloque international sur les programmes locaux et régionaux de santé a donné lieu à une analyse comparée de quatre pays (Brésil, France, Suisse, Canada) portant sur les « conditions de l'intégration de la Prévention et de la Promotion dans les systèmes de santé ». Malgré la diversité des quatre systèmes de santé présentés, plusieurs similitudes au regard des difficultés et des acquis ont pu être dégagées ce qui a permis de mettre en avant trois perspectives d'action. Ainsi, il est suggéré qu'une meilleure intégration de la promotion et de la prévention dans les systèmes de santé pourrait être possible par une mobilisation accrue de la population et des acteurs de la santé en faveur de la prévention mais aussi aux conditions que le secteur de la promotion et de la prévention assure sa crédibilité par le développement de la qualité de ses pratiques et de son organisation et que le discours et les pratiques de prévention s'ajustent au contexte du soin. Enfin, la poursuite des échanges entre différents pays sur ce sujet est présentée comme une piste à suivre pour alimenter les réflexions et soutenir les efforts de chacun vers cette intégration souhaitée.
Advocacy for a new global health development paradigm: building alliances for global public health
Authors: Hilson Margaret
Published: July 2017

The past 25 years have produced a contradictory and conflicting context for health development. While global NGOs were enunciating a progressive political discourse promoting equity in health and development, elected conservative governments put in place measures that not only impoverished developing countries but also reduced international aid from richer countries. As a result, the structural adjustment policies of the past 25 years have decimated health and education services in poor countries. Recent international documents indicate a strong will by NGOs to regain leadership in the area of support to social development. In this effort to promote health as a human right and development as an avenue for achieving that goal, public health associations throughout the world should prepare for a leading advocacy role to rally partners in this endeavour.
Social inequalities in health from Ottawa to Vancouver: action for fair equality of opportunity
Authors: Ridde Valéry , Guichard Anne , Houeto David
Published: July 2017

The authors set out to show that the Ottawa Charter of 1986 has not been sufficiently accepted over the past twenty years, even by those who use it as a strategic tool to guide interventions for reducing social inequalities in health. Although some public health policies do emphasize the reduction of social inequalities in health, only the Ottawa Charter appears to possess the status of an international declaration on the matter. Social inequalities in health are the systematic, avoidable, and unjust differences in health that persist between individuals and sub-groups of a population. Four examples from the field of health promotion serve to show that forgetting to combat social inequalities in health is not exclusive to the domain of public health. However, taking action against social inequalities in health does not equal tackling poverty. Moreover, intervening on the principle of equality of opportunity, on the basis of an ideology of meritocracy, or for the benefit of the population as a whole, without regard to sub-groups, only tends, at best, to reproduce inequalities. Although evidence is insufficient, there are studies that show that reducing social inequalities in health is not an aporia. Three explanations are advanced as to why social inequalities in health have been ignored by health promotion professionals. The Ottawa Charter had the merit of highlighting the struggle against social inequalities in health. Now, moving beyond the declarations, from the strategic framework provided by the Ottawa Charter and in accordance with the Bangkok Charter, it is time to show proof of voluntarism. Several priorities for the future are suggested and the International Union for Health Promotion and Education (IUHPE) should be responsible for advocating for them. (Promotion & Education, 2007, Supplement (2): pp 12-16).
Les inégalités sociales de santé d'Ottawa à Vancouver : agir pour une « égalité équitable des chances »
Authors: Ridde Valéry , Guichard Anne , Houeto David
Published: July 2017

Les auteurs tentent de montrer que la Charte d'Ottawa de 1986 n'a pas été suffisamment perçue ces 20 dernières années, y compris par ceux qui s'y réfèrent, comme un instrument stratégique pour orienter les interventions en faveur de la réduction des inégalités sociales de santé. En effet, si certaines politiques publiques de santé mettent l'accent sur la diminution des inégalités sociales de santé, seule la Charte d'Ottawa nous semble disposer du statut d'une déclaration internationale à cet effet. Les inégalités sociales de santé sont les différences de santé systématiques, évitables et injustes qui perdurent entre des individus et des sous-groupes de la population. Quatre exemples tirés du champ de la promotion de la santé servent à montrer que l'oubli de lutter contre les inégalités sociales de santé n'est pas l'apanage de ceux qui se réclament de la santé publique. Mais agir contre les inégalités sociales de santé n'est pas intervenir contre la pauvreté. De plus, intervenir selon le principe de l'égalité des chances, l'idéologie de la méritocratie, ou uniquement en faveur de l'ensemble de la population sans se préoccuper des sous-groupes n'a pour effet, dans le meilleur des cas, que de reproduire les inégalités. Bien que les données probantes ne soient pas suffisantes, il existe des études qui montrent que la réduction des inégalités sociales de santé n'est pas une aporie. Trois pistes sont avancées pour expliquer cette mise à l'écart des inégalités sociales de santé par les acteurs de la promotion de la santé. La Charte d'Ottawa a eu le mérite de mettre l'accent sur la lutte contre les inégalités sociales de santé. Maintenant, au-delà des déclarations, du cadre stratégique que la Charte fournit et en accord avec la Charte de Bangkok, il nous faut faire preuve de volontarisme. Nous suggérons quelques priorités pour l'avenir dont la responsabilité du plaidoyer devrait incomber à l'UIPES. (Promotion & Education, 2007, Supplement (2) : pp 44-47)
Silenced Science: Air Pollution Decision-Making at the EPA Threatens Public Health
Authors: Rest Kathleen
Published: July 2017

The saga of the Environmental Protection Agency's new particulate matter (PM) rule is yet another example of this Administration's disregard for and disrespect of science and scientists—and may signal the beginning of a disturbing trend to reduce the role of science in protecting the quality of our air. Political interference in the PM case is clear. And more trouble may be in the wings when it comes to acceptable levels of ozone pollution and the process for setting the National Ambient Air Quality Standards (NAAQS). For several years, the Union of Concerned Scientists has been actively monitoring and documenting the misuse of science in public policy-making. Consider this a call to arms. Now is the time to engage your elected officials on these issues.
Are we Failing Vulnerable Workers? the Case of Black Women in Poultry Processing in Rural North Carolina
Authors: Lipscomb H. J. , Dement J. M. , Epling C. A. , Mcdonald M. A. , Schoenfisch A. L.
Published: July 2017

In 1989, North Carolina Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) inspectors cited two poultry processing plants in northeastern North Carolina for serious repetitive motion problems. In 1990, investigators from the National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health confirmed significant upper extremity musculoskeletal symptoms and disorders among workers. We now report on analyses of baseline data collected from a cohort of women employed in one of these plants. The plant, which is the largest employer of women in the area, is located in a sparsely populated area with a black majority where nearly one-third of the population lives below the poverty level. Conditions we report suggest failure of existing health and safety systems, both regulatory and consultative, to prevent morbidity among vulnerable women in this industry, as well as social and economic conditions that influence availability of work and use of benefits to which they are entitled.
San Sebastián: the Social and Political Effects of Sugar Mill Closure in Mexico
Authors: Powell Kathy
Published: July 2017

Mexico's sugar mills face an uncertain future: the closure of San Sebastián may well presage others if the climate for sugar production on national and international levels does not improve. While the continued squeezing of small cane producers reflects processes affecting peasant agriculture generally in Mexico, and indeed beyond, the fate of the mill workers made redundant when the mill closed similarly mirrors broad tendencies in labor in both the developed and developing world under neoliberalism. Former workers fell back upon personal, family, and community resources by migrating to the U.S. or locally reconstructing livelihoods characterized by a reduction in income, security, and access to social benefits. This article reports on the impact of the mill closure on the livelihoods of former mill worker families in the community of San Sebastián and offers some observations on their responses to the situation.
Precarious Existence and Deteriorating work Conditions for Women in India: Implications for Health
Authors: Swaminathan Padmini
Published: July 2017

The Indian economy has experienced economic growth post-1991 but has demonstrated an inability to generate adequate employment and even less of “quality” employment for much of its labor force. This article is based on data collected from conversations with women workers on the theme of “women, work and health,” with an emphasis on, one, task allotment and working conditions in the household; and two, those related to conditions of work at the worksite and the gendered experience of such work. While narratives cannot establish causality between particular work environments and related adverse outcomes, they nevertheless provide crucial insights into what is likely to be blighting these women's lives. Advocates of women's work outside their home need to pay attention to both their remuneration for work and the costs to their health and well-being of such employment, so that policies aimed at employment generation also are sensitive to the adverse outcomes of such employment.
Psychosocial Risk Factors Among Telephone Service Workers: A Study of the Interaction between Customer and Worker
Authors: Scarone Mireya , Cedillo Leonor A.
Published: July 2017

Many activities in the telephone industry involve interaction with customers, including both traditional (for example, client assistance) and emerging services (product sales). Interaction with customers has been reported to cause stress in workers. The study was initiated as a consequence of changes in dialing of long-distance numbers. The main sources of stress among workers in Traffic and Customer Services Departments were analyzed, together with the resulting psychological distress and other health symptoms. Information was gathered through semi-structured interviews and a questionnaire containing the Spanish version of the Job Content Questionnaire, as well as psychological strain and health symptoms items. Questions developed specifically for this study concerned emotional demands, client interactions, and mechanisms used to deal with violent or unpleasant interactions. Workers received valuable information from the study that empowered them to demand improved working conditions.
Reversal of Erythema Multiforme Major with Cyclophosphamide and Prednisone
Authors: Eastham John H , Segal Jack L , Gómez Maria F , Cole Gary W , De Bittner Magaly Rodríguez , Richer Monique
Published: July 2017

Objective

To report a case of erythema multiforme (EM) major treated with cyclophosphamide and prednisone.

Setting

General medicine and dermatology consult services, Department of Veterans Affairs Medical Center.

Case Summary

A 44-year-old man with C4–C5 quadriplegia developed a skin reaction characterized by a painful, generalized maculopapular rash, bullae, ulceronecrotic lesions, and mucosal and epidermal sloughing after taking trimethoprim/sulfamethoxazole. The patient was treated with intravenous cyclophosphamide 150 mg infused over 1 hour every 24 hours and oral prednisone 15 mg every 6 hours. After two doses of cyclophosphamide, formation of bullae and epidermal sloughing had ceased, and the erythema was markedly diminished. Cyclophosphamide was discontinued before the third dose because of evolving leukopenia. Prednisone therapy was continued until the patient was discharged on hospital day 5, at which time the dosage was tapered.

Discussion

Cyclophosphamide has been used extensively for other dermatologic reactions. Relief of pain and regression of the lesions in our patient occurred more quickly than anticipated.

Conclusions

Treatment of EM major with cyclophosphamide combined with prednisone appeared to be highly successful in this patient. Cyclophosphamide may be an effective, empiric initial treatment in reversing EM major.
Angiotensin II Receptor Antagonists: The Prototype Losartan
Authors: Schaefer Karen L , Porter Julie A , Morand Brenda R , Rudis Maria
Published: July 2017

Objective

To describe a new class of antihypertensive agents, the angiotensin II receptor antagonists, with emphasis on the prototype losartan. Pharmacokinetic data and clinical trials are reviewed, as well as adverse reactions, drug interactions, and dosing guidelines.

Data Sources

A MEDLINE search of English-language literature published from 1966 through 1995 was performed. In addition, Merck and Co. provided bibliographic data on file for losartan.

Study Selection

Emphasis was placed on clinical and pharmacokinetic studies in humans. Controlled, double-blind studies were evaluated to assess the efficacy and adverse effect profile of losartan.

Data Synthesis

Losartan is a nonpeptide, competitive antagonist of the type 1 angiotensin II receptor. In comparative clinical trials, losartan appears to have antihypertensive efficacy similar to that of the angiotensin-converting enzyme (ACE) inhibitors. Losartan is well tolerated, with an adverse effect profile similar to that of placebo and a reduced incidence of cough versus that with ACE inhibitors. A combination product consisting of losartan 50 mg and hydrochlorothiazide 12.5 mg has also received approval for the treatment of hypertension. The combination product is not indicated for initial therapy, but is recommended for patients who do not respond adequately to losartan monotherapy. The angiotensin II receptor antagonists are also being investigated for beneficial effects in patients with ventricular hypertrophy, renal disease, and heart failure.

Conclusions

Losartan, the first angiotensin II receptor antagonist to receive approval for use in the US, appears to be an effective new antihypertensive agent with an adverse effect profile similar to that of placebo. Losartan may be an alternative for patients who cannot tolerate ACE inhibitors. However, the effect of losartan on mortality remains to be evaluated. The role of the angiotensin II receptor antagonists in areas such as ventricular hypertrophy, renal function, and heart failure has yet to be determined.
Sun Exposure, Sunscreens, and Skin Cancer Prevention: A Year-Round Concern
Authors: Farmer Kevin C , Naylor Mark F , Roca-Acén Juan , Larouche Marie
Published: July 2017

Objective

To review the role of sunlight in skin aging and skin cancer formation, and to provide guidelines on the use of sunscreens to minimize the adverse effects of sun damage.

Data Sources

A MEDLINE search of applicable articles on ultraviolet (UV) radiation, melanoma, sunscreens, and skin cancer, evaluating both human and animal studies. Published and unpublished original research as well as clinical experience were also used.

Data Synthesis

The interaction of UV radiation and skin type plays a central role in melanoma formation. Mortality from melanoma is highest in geographic locations near the equator, where UV intensity is greatest. The incidence of melanomas in light-complected individuals (skin types I-III) is several times higher than those with darker skin types (types IV-VI), even in similar geographic regions. The UVB portion of the spectrum appears to be primarily responsible for skin cancer formation and photoaging, while short wave UVA rays play a significant contributing role. Regular sunscreen use has been shown to reduce the formation of precancerous actinic keratoses (AK) lesions by 36%. A dose-response relationship has also been found between the amount of sunscreen used and AK formation.

Conclusions

Sunscreens have now been shown to reduce the carcinogenic effects of sunlight in humans. Patients should be advised of the long-term consequences of sun exposure and the benefits of regular sunscreen use.
The Incidence of Achilles Tendon Ruptures in Edmonton, Canada
Authors: Suchak Amar A. , Bostick Geoff , Reid David , Blitz Sandra , Jomha Nadr
Published: July 2017

Background: The incidence of Achilles tendon ruptures specific to the North American population has not been previously reported and current epidemiological data are primarily reported from European communities. The purpose of this study was to determine the incidence of Achilles tendon ruptures in the city of Edmonton, Alberta, Canada, and to compare this data to those reported in European studies. Methods: A retrospective chart review from all five acute care hospitals in Edmonton from 1998 to 2002 (inclusive) were reviewed for Achilles tendon ruptures. Data such as gender, age, side, mechanism of injury, and season of injury were obtained. Results: The incidence of Achilles tendon ruptures ranged from an annual average of 5.5 ruptures to 9.9 ruptures per 100,000 inhabitants with an overall mean of 8.3 ruptures per 100,000 people. There was a statistically significant difference in Achilles tendon ruptures over the last two study years for both genders (women, p < 0.02; men, p < 0.03). The mean age for an Achilles tendon rupture was 40.6 years for men and 44.5 years for women. The Achilles tendon ruptures occurred most frequently in the 30 to 39 and 40 to 49 year old age groups in both men and women, respectively ( p < 0.02). Most ruptures occurred in the spring season, but there was no statistical difference in the incidence of Achilles tendon ruptures by season ( p > 0.05). Conclusions: The incidence of Achilles tendon ruptures in this community was comparable to those reported in European communities (range 6 to 37 ruptures per 100,000 people), although a bimodal age distribution of rupture previously reported was not observed in this study.
The Variations of the Sensory Branches of the Superficial Peroneal Nerve Course and its Clinical Importance
Authors: Ucerler Hulya , Ikiz 'Z. Asli Aktan
Published: July 2017

Background: Although the sensory branches of the superficial peroneal nerve (SPN) have different anatomical variations that are of clinical importance, little is known about their anatomic courses, branching patterns, or relationships to palpable osseous landmarks. 1 , 3 A detailed knowledge is necessary for surgical exposures about the foot and ankle, arthroscopic procedures, ankle block anesthesia, and SPN block for leg venography. Methods: Thirty lower cadaver limbs were dissected to assess the anatomic properties and the variations of the sensory branches of the SPN. Results: Three distinct branch patterns were determined. In Type 1 (63.3%), the nerve penetrated the crural fascia 80.15 ± 17.80 mm proximal to the intermalleolar line and then divided into the intermediate dorsal cutaneous nerve (IDCN) and the medial dorsal cutaneous nerve (MDCN) (classic type). In Type 2 (26.7%), the IDCN and MDCN arose independently from the SPN. In Type 3 (10%), the SPN penetrated the crural fascia 101.14 ± 70.27 mm proximal to the intermalleolar line as a single branch. This single branch had a similar course to the MDCN. Measurements in this study were obtained from palpable bony reference landmarks. Conclusion: Detailed knowledge about the SPN, IDCN, and the MDCN may decrease the damage to these nerves during operative procedures near the foot and ankle.
Evidence of Validity for the Foot and Ankle Ability Measure (FAAM)
Authors: Martin RobRoy L. , Irrgang James J. , Burdett Ray G. , Conti Stephen F. , Swearingen Jessie M. Van
Published: July 2017

Background: There is no universally accepted instrument that can be used to evaluate changes in self-reported physical function for individuals with leg, ankle, and foot musculoskeletal disorders. The objective of this study was to develop an instrument to meet this need: the Foot and Ankle Ability Measure (FAAM). Additionally, this study was designed to provide validity evidence for interpretation of FAAM scores. Methods: Final item reduction was completed using item response theory with 1027 subjects. Validity evidence was provided by 164 subjects that were expected to change and 79 subjects that were expected to remain stable. These subjects were given the FAAM and SF-36 to complete on two occasions 4 weeks apart. Results: The final version of the FAAM consists of the 21-item activities of daily living (ADL) and 8-item Sports subscales, which together produced information across the spectrum ability. Validity evidence was provided for test content, internal structure, score stability, and responsiveness. Test retest reliability was 0.89 and 0.87 for the ADL and Sports subscales, respectively. The minimal detectable change based on a 95% confidence interval was ±5.7 and ±-12.3 points for the ADL and Sports subscales, respectively. Two-way repeated measures ANOVA and ROC analysis found both the ADL andSports subscales were responsive to changes in status ( p < 0.05). The minimal clinically important differences were 8 and 9 points for the ADL and Sports subscales, respectively. Guyatt responsive index and ROC analysis found the ADL subscale was more responsive than general measures of physical function while the Sports subscale was not. The ADL and Sport subscales demonstrated strong relationships with the SF-36 physical function subscale ( r = 0.84, 0.78) and physical component summary score ( r = 0.78, 0.80) and weak relationships with the SF-36 mental function subscale ( r = 0.18, 0.11) and mental component summary score ( r = 0.05, −0.02). Conclusions: The FAAM is a reliable, responsive, and valid measure of physical function for individuals with a broad range of musculoskeletal disorders of the lower leg, foot, and ankle.
Screw Fixation Compared to H-Locking Plate Fixation for First Metatarsocuneiform Arthrodesis: A Biomechanical Study
Authors: Cohen David A. , Parks Brent G. , Schon Lew C.
Published: July 2017

Background: Several different techniques have been used for fixation of first metatarsocuneiform (MTC) joint arthrodesis, a standard treatment for arthritis, instability, and deformity of the MTC joint. Improved plating systems using locking designs are now available, but no studies have yet compared this construct with other methods. We compared load to failure with a locking plate design versus standard crossed-screw fixation. Methods: Ten matched pairs of fresh frozen cadaver feet were used. The bone density of each pair was measured with DEXA scanning. One foot of each pair was randomly assigned to have a dorsomedial Normed H titanium locking plate (Normed Medizin-Technik Vertriebs-GmbH, D-78501 Tuttlingen, Germany) applied to the first MTC joint. On the other foot of the pair, fixation of the first MTC joint was done with crossed ACE DePuy 4.0 (DePuy/Ace, Warsaw, IN) titanium cannulated screws. The first metatarsal and first cuneiform were then isolated and planted in an epoxy resin. The specimens were loaded to failure in a four-point bending configuration using a MTS Mini Bionix test frame (MTS Systems Corp., Eden Prairie, MN). Failure was defined as displacement of more than 3 mm at the arthrodesis site. The Student t-test was used to determine any observed differences, with significance set at p ≤ 0.05. Results: The mean maximal load to failure was 140.08 N (SD ± 77.1) for screw fixation alone and 58.09 N (SD ± 11.86) for the H-locking plate. This difference was statistically significant ( p = 0.008). The mean stiffness of the construct for screw fixation alone was 83.10 N/mm (SD ± 49.8) and 19.96 N/mm for the H-locking plate. This difference also was statistically significant ( p = 0. 004). Conclusion: Screw fixation for first MTC arthrodesis created a stronger and stiffer construct than did the H-locking plate. This was likely due to the mechanical design of the implants. Compression across the MTC joint could be applied with the screws, but the plate relied on a fixed angle design with no compression.
Bilateral Simultaneous Fasciotomy for Chronic Exertional Compartment Syndrome
Authors: Raikin Steven M. , Rapuri Venkat R. , Vitanzo Peter
Published: July 2017

Background: Chronic exertional compartment syndrome (CECS) occurs bilaterally in approximately 60% of patients. Fasciotomy is the primary corrective treatment. We hypothesized that bilateral fasciotomy can be done during the same operative procedure with early return to sports and low complication rates. Method: Sixteen patients had simultaneous bilateral lower extremity fasciotomies for CECS confirmed by compartment pressure testing before and after exercise. Ten patients had concomitant superficial peroneal neurolysis for associated numbness. All patients who were athletes (six runners; nine ball sports) (average age 25 years) had sports related pain limiting participation. Results: Patients were followed for an average of 16.4 (range 6 to 48) months. Full return to sports participation occurred at an average of 10.7 weeks. Three patients continued to have mild, but much improved, pain with active sports participation, while 13 were pain free. All 11 patients with exertional related numbness had resolution after operative release. All patients were satisfied and all patients stated that they would have simultaneous fasciotomies again if required. As a nonmatched comparison, three patients who had staged fasciotomies for bilateral CECS were also evaluated, but because of the small number no statistical comparison was made. All three also returned to their previous levels of sports participation, however, at an average of 22.7 months as compared to 10.7 weeks in patients with simultaneous bilateral releases. Conclusion: Bilateral simultaneous fasciotomies for CECS can be done safely and effectively with early return to sports participation and low complication rates.
Experiments on Document Composition
Authors: Gould John D.
Published: July 2017

This research aims at understanding the human factors of document composition, particularly as they relate to future office systems. Methods studied include handwriting, dictating to a machine, speaking, and invisible writing. The note is a prediction (prepared May, 1978) of an invited talk to be given in October, 1978 at the annual Human Factors Society meeting.
OSHA Standards: Human Factors Research Needs for Fall Hazard Warning Systems
Authors: Boydstun Louis E. , Stobbe Terrence J. , Chaffin Don B.
Published: July 2017

The Occupational Safety and Health Administration is turning to human factors research to provide support in the development and evaluation of performance and design standards. A review of current standards for the design of fall warning systems reveals several areas where human factors research can substantially contribute to the development of safety standards. The review provides a conceptual framework for future research efforts and describes research needs in the development and validation of visual, auditory and tactile warning systems.
Quantifying Operator Preference during Human Factors Test and Evaluation
Authors: Fineberg Michael L.
Published: July 2017

The present paper will describe the construction and pilot testing of a human factors evaluation instrument. The instrument was constructed using psychometric procedures generally applied to development of attitude scales. The goal of the instrument was the quantification of operator preference in helicopter design within four major areas of human factors consideration: handling qualities, comfort/discomfort, human engineering design and safety. Each area had a common scale against which 10 specific parameters were evaluated. The ten items within each area were chosen using system operators' expertise, human factors standards, human factors experimental literature and the experience of the authors. The instrument was validated using a sample of 16 aviators during the conduct of an actual operational test. The results of these validation studies indicated a test-retest reliability of .85 (P < .001) and an inter-rater reliability of .93 (P < .001). Use of the instrument did provide statistically significant differences among aircraft candidates under various operational test conditions as measured within each of the four indices within the instrument.

It is concluded that the instrument provides an effective method of quantifying the preference of operational aviators. The scrupulous development process using inputs from experienced aviators, experts in aviation field test design, and experts in test construction has provided a high measure of construct validity to the instrument.
Development of an Underwater Test Battery to Measure Gross Motor Performance
Authors: Dixon David J. , Halcomb Charles G. , Schafer Charles , Gidcumb Charles , Unger Kenneth
Published: July 2017

An effort was made to develop analog tests to Fleishman's Gross Motor Performance Battery for administration underwater. This was an initial effort focused upon the demonstration of feasability of the effort and the development of an initial battery for demonstration purposes. Results indicated that it would be possible to develop such an analog for use in selection, training, and equipment evaluation underwater.
Man/Terminal Interaction Evaluation of Computer Operating System Command and Control Service Concepts
Authors: Dodson Daniel W. , Shields Nicholas L.
Published: July 2017

The Experiment Computer Operating System (ECOS) of the Spacelab will allow the onboard Payload Specialist to command experiment devices and display information relative to the performance of experiments. Three candidate ECOS command and control service concepts were reviewed and laboratory data on operator performance was taken for each concept. The command and control service concepts evaluated included a dedicated operator's menu display from which all command inputs were issued, a dedicated command key concept with which command inputs could be issued from any display, and a multi-display concept in which command inputs were issued from several dedicated function displays. Advantages and disadvantages are discussed in terms of training, operational errors, task performance time, and subjective comments of system operators.
The Human Factors Specialist as Organizational Change Agent
Authors: Vecchiotti R.A.
Published: July 2017

Organizational development (OD) as an approach to change, has provided a variety of techniques to systematically plan and manage change in an organizational context. Typically the locus of organizational change is in the upper echelons of management. The success of many OD interventions rests primarily on interpersonal factors and people-to-system factors characterized by concern for a climate of openness and trust and participation in organizational activities at all levels. These activities include the determination of goals and the seeking of agreement on the direction the organization would take in the near term.
Skill Training: Contribution to Organizational Change
Authors: Shields Joyce L.
Published: July 2017

Frequently, people are resistant to change because of perceived or real deficits in personnel skills. The lack of skill denies future opportunity for organization change. Skill training can lead to organizational change in two major ways:

(a) enhanced individual skills may facilitate acceptance and use of new technology and innovations and (b) new training systems may cause changes in organizational structures and responsibilities.
Evaluation as a Systemic Component of Organizational Change Efforts
Authors: Bunker Kerry A.
Published: July 2017

A cyclical-feedback systems model is proposed as a format for structuring and utilizing the results of evaluative investigations of organizational change efforts. The issues of internal validity, external validity, research design and results utilization are discussed; and an organizational training evaluation example is presented to demonstrate the feasibility, practicality and potential benefits of the approach.
Male-Female Differences in Variables Affecting Performance
Authors: Grasley Connie , Ayoub M. M. , Bethea Nancy J.
Published: July 2017

Literature concerning variables affecting performance levels of males and females was reviewed. Emphasis was placed on literature using both males and females as subjects in the areas of anthropometric, biomechanical, and physiological variables. When literature using both sexes as subjects was not available, comparable studies were considered for possible use.

The results of this review indicate that there are sex differences in anthropometry with regard to body dimensions. In biomechanics, sex differences were noted in reach envelopes strength and flexibility in particular. Physiological differences were noted in responses to heat/cold stress and altitude. These differences were then applied to a performance matrix under the categories of sensory, process and control. Differences noted were either very specific or did not exist at all. This is due in part to a lack of research involving variables as they actually affect performance levels between males and females.
Driver Behavior Effects on Fuel Consumption in Urban Driving
Authors: Evans Leonard
Published: July 2017

Data are examined from two published experimental studies in which drivers were instructed to drive other than normally, with the traffic: for example, to minimize fuel consumption or to minimize trip time. It is found that, in general, for each one percent increase (decrease) in trip time compared to driving normally with the trffic, the fuel consumption increases (decreases) by ∼1.1%. However, expert drivers can save fuel without increasing trip time by skillfully adjusting their speed to avoid stops at traffic signals. It is shown that the formal problem to be solved to minimize fuel consumption on an urban trip is so complicated that even a “perfect” fuel economy meter would not enable a driver to achieve this minimum.
A Human Factor Study of Individual Home Appliance Energy Use
Authors: Fechter John V.
Published: July 2017

For ten different kitchen ranges, forty-six different cooks prepared a standard 21 meal menu while the energy used by each cook was measured. The energy efficiency of each range was then determined and the ranges were rank-ordered in two ways—on the basis of measured range efficiency and energy actually used by cooks. In general, the higher the measured efficiency the lower the total energy use. This was an important result because it meant that the range efficiency test method to be required by Department of Energy (formerly Federal Energy Administration) regulations was a fair method for manufacturers to use. In addition to that result, large differences were noted in energy consumption by different cooks on the same range. The implications of those differences, and the need for further research about them will be discussed.
System Operability: Concept and Measurement in Test and Evaluation
Authors: Helm Wade R. , Donnell M. L.
Published: July 2017

In conducting adequate system evaluation, as in the related area of program evaluation, there are four major methodological issues that must be successfully resolved. These issues are conceptualization, i.e., the classification procedures for subdividing subject matter; measurement, i.e., the process of developing and employing operational definitions of constructs; design, i.e., systematic data collection; and, finally, interpretability, i.e., how the results fulfill the purpose of the evaluation. Mission Operability Assessment Technique (MOAT) is a tool for system evaluation which incorporates these four issues within its structure. This paper emphasises how MOAT can be used to conceptualize and measure problems encountered in system evaluation. Specific examples include how MOAT will be used on the F-18 fighter aircraft to provide indices of man-system compatibility across a mission profile.
Maximizing Design Accommodations for Composite User Populations: Methodology Applicable to Mixed Male and Female Populations
Authors: Bittner Alvah C.
Published: July 2017

Methods for maximizing the accommodation of composite user populations in designs, with fixed limit constraints, are delineated. Initially, the probability density function (PDF) for a composite user population, derived from a mix of subpopulations, is characterized in terms of subpopulation PDF's and methods of estimating univariate and multivariate PDF's given. Subsequently, necessary, but not sufficient, conditions for maximizing fixed limit accommodation are given in terms of the accommodation ranges and composite PDF. Motivating examples and discussion are in terms of mixes of male and female subpopulation.
Anthropometry of Women of the U.S. Army
Authors: White Robert M.
Published: July 2017

A new anthropometric survey of U. S. Army women was planned and carried out in 1976–1977 in response to the need for current and comprehensive body size data for the women who make up an increasingly large part of the United States Army. The main purpose of the survey was to obtain and develop statistical data on the body sizes and proportions of Army women. As a result, new anthropometric data now are available for Army women, as well as workspace and strength measurements. While there has been relatively little change in the body dimensions of Army women between 1946 and 1977, comparisons of data for men and women clearly show that serious design and sizing problems will be encountered in the development of clothing and equipment intended for use by both Army men and women.
Profiling Procedures for Long-Range Medication Efficacy in Double-Blind Trials
Authors: Gardenier Turkan K.
Published: July 2017

Statisticians working in biological investigatory trials are quite often faced with inferences obtained in long-range experiments which do not fit within the general framework of time-indexed designed studies. The initial response of patients in long-term studies is usually depicted within the first six months of the trial; the remaining part of the trial being confined to patient monitor of dropouts, survival rates and adverse effects. The objective of the present paper is to describe two computerized profiling methods developed by the present author for maximizing contrastive differences between medications.

The first method analyzes the consistency of successive observations on a patient-by-patient basis, yielding cumulative increment scores which is used as a decision rule for a time-indexed response. The method is reminiscent of sequential medical trial procedures applied to data from a given patient. Using this procedure, patients are categorized as “responders” or “non-responders” depending upon the profile of successive observations which they elicit during the trial.

The second method utilizes superimposed distribution profiles of each medication under comparison. Profiles generated at various cut-off points during the study enable the utilization of more stringent indices than means and variances of the observations. Constriction in data variability is obtained by utilization of non-parametric trichotomization. Double-blinding of comparative medications may still be kept intact: yet the investigators have the flexibility of monitoring emerging contrastive differences as the trial proceeds.
Effect of Headlight Illumination on Driver Behavior
Authors: Helander Martin , Merritt John O. , Abrams Charles
Published: July 2017

The effect of different headlight patterns on driving performance was investigated during test drives along a 8-km rural highway. Eighteen subjects drove the test course once for each of the three headlight conditions: low beam, high beam, and low-plus-high beam. Continuous recordings were obtained of vehicle speed, brake pressure, acceleration, steering wheel angle, and lane position. Response profiles for average and 1 S.D. of response were plotted as a function of distance along the test course. ANOVA showed small but statistically significant illumination effects for average speed, average lane position, and standard deviation of steering wheel position and fore-aft accelerations. It was concluded that the test course may have been too difficult and thus may have limited effects of illumination conditions on the driving performance measures obtained in this first phase of testing.
Physiological Biorhythm as a Correlate of Pilot Error Accidents and Incidents
Authors: Hendrick Hal W. , Jones Harlan E.
Published: July 2017

Aircraft accidents and incidents attributed to pilot error were hypothesized to have occurred while the pilot was in a critical phase for one or more biorhythms. From screening accident and incident reports for a large military unit, two groups of 25 pilots who had been involved in pilot error accidents and one group of 50 pilots who had been involved in pilot error incidents were identified. 13 of the accident validation group and 12 of the cross validation group were found to have been in a critical physiological phase at the time of accident, or twice the number expected by chance. For the incident group, 20 of the 50 pilots were in a critical physiological phase at the time of incident. Results for all three groups exceeded chance at the .025 level. Results for emotional and intellectual biorhythms, and for double critical phases were found not significant.
Passive Seat Belt Design and Standards
Authors: Woodson Wesley E. , Black Thomas L.
Published: July 2017

Recently mandated passive restraint requirements raise the question of how to minimize the possible resistance of the public by putting comfort and convenience requirements into Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standards. This paper discusses methods for determining potential public complaints and presents some of the problems of writing performance rules that deal with the subjective reactions of the public to discomfort and inconvenience.
Sacrificing Environmental Control for Energy Conservation—A Consultant's Viewpoint
Authors: Hayter Richard B.
Published: July 2017

An energy management consultant has a number of options available to him to conserve energy in existing or new building environmental control systems. Unfortunately, many of the options may also reduce the precision in maintaining a desired set of environmental conditions. Therefore, the energy manager must seek to maximize energy conserved yet minimuze occupant discomfort. A number of energy conserving environmental control modifications are described as well as the related effect they may have on the degree of occupant discomfort.
Conserving Energy by Expanding the Thermal Comfort Envelope
Authors: Rohles Frederick H.
Published: July 2017

Standard 55–74 entitled “Thermal Conditions for Human Occupancy” which is published by The American Society of Heating, Refrigerating, and Air Conditioning Engineers, (ASHRAE) defines an “acceptable thermal environment” as one in which “at least 80 percent of the normally clothed men and women while engaged in indoor sedentary or near sedentary activities would express thermal comfort.” This is pictured on the ASHRAE psychrometric chart as an envelope that includes dry bulb temperatures between 74°F and 77°F at relative humidities between 20% and 60%. The paper will describe five human factors approaches that have been used or are being considered to expand this envelope and thereby conserve energy. These are (1) the use of small radiant heaters which are installed in the modesty panels of desks so comfort may be attained at lower temperatures; (2) the demonstration that night set-back of thermostats to temperatures as low as 50°F do not effect sleeping patterns; (3) the role that interior decor can play in making people feel warmer; (4) the effect that temperature “swings” associated with solar heating and cooling has upon acceptance of the thermal environment and (5) the acceptance of a reduced quality of indoor air as a result of heating with an increased ratio of recirculated air to outside air.
A Driver Glare-Discomfort Model to Evaluate Automotive Stop Lamp Brightness
Authors: Hoffmeister David H. , Bhise Vivek D.
Published: July 2017

Laboratory and field studies were conducted to explore the applicability of previously reported laboratory-based discomfort glare threshold data to the prediction of the discomfort level drivers may experience due to glare from the stop lamps of a lead vehicle. The results show that the BCD (Borderline between Comfort and Discomfort) threshold brightness data developed by Putnam and Faucett (1951)* can be used to predict various discomfort levels experienced by the driver under field conditions. A prototype glare-discomfort model was developed which predicts driver discomfort as a function of distance between the two vehicles, lamp intensity, size, and the driver's adaptation to ambient luminance levels. The model incorporates a threshold multiplier to account for differences between the BCD thresholds and field-observed glare-discomfort ratings due to glare-exposure duration and multiple-glare sources.
Mobility Aids for the Blind
Authors: Woodson Wesley E.
Published: July 2017

In order for blind or partially sighted persons to get about in the typical urban environment we first must recognize what problems face the individual in the typical areas of street identification, bus stop identification and route information determination, obstacle avoidance, and safe path maintenance in such situations as the railroad crossing. Although proper initial planning and design would remove many of the problems in the first place, most cities already have created mobility obstacles that must somehow be corrected—but on a cost-effective basis. This paper outlines some of the corrective measures that could be implemented with minimum cost.
Bedrooms for the Aged
Authors: Parsons H. McIlvaine
Published: July 2017

Research is still needed concerning the design of bedrooms for the aged, although a number of guidelines and specifications have appeared in recent years. A survey of these indicates they are incomplete and inconsistent. Such a survey is presented within a framework of people-environment relations that can serve generally for examining and analyzing environmental design.
Optimal Design Procedure for Two-Level Fractional Factorial Experiments Given Partial Prior Information about Parameters
Authors: Sidik Steven M. , Holms Arthur G.
Published: July 2017

In many cases in practice an experimenter has some prior knowledge of indefinite validity concerning the main effects and interactions which would be estimable from a two-level full factorial experiment. Such information should be incorporated into the design of the experiment.