bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Occupation Data Base Planning and Design
Authors: Duncan C. Steven , Greenston Peter M.
Published: July 2017

The Occupation Data Base under development at TPDC consists of three files. The first file describes military occupations, providing information about the attributes of the occupation. It addresses the question: what does the occupation look like? The second file describes occupations from a “demographic” perspective, or more simply put, answers the question: who are the people performing the job? It provides a statistical profile (current and historical) of the characteristics, experience, and behavior of the people serving in each military occupation. The third file provides a data file oh training programs, resources, methods and media as these elements relate to military occupations. All occupations within the enlisted, warrant officer, and officer communities are covered in each service, both active and reserve components. These three files are being built from current and historical data and will be updated regularly, thereby providing a comparative perspective with which senior service planners can make informed decisions on defense training issues.
Student Performance Evaluation for a Simulation Based Intelligent Expert Tutoring System
Authors: Lee C. H. , Biegel J. E. , Dixon C. M.
Published: July 2017

Intelligent tutoring systems offer an exciting new way to train people in areas of complex domains. A simulation-based training system provides the student with the opportunity to manipulate a system without the consequences of real life mistakes. The intelligence required in the tutoring system is focused on the tutor's ability to teach the student efficient, strategic responses. This tutoring demands that the tutor is aware of the student's current ability, specific fault areas, and preferred method of tutoring. Instructional decisions are made by assessing the student's performance. The utility of an intelligent tutoring system depends on its capacity to evaluate the student's performance. Performance assessment then has significant impact on the employment of such a system. The parameters used for performance assessment of a complex task depend on the objective of the tutoring system. We present a description of a generic intelligent tutoring system which will remove the human instructor from the training loop.
Application of Automatic/Controlled Processing Theory to Training Tactical Command and Control Skills: II. Evaluation of a Task Analytic Methodology
Authors: Eggemeier F. Thomas , Fisk Arthur D. , Robbins Richard J. , Lawless Michael T.
Published: July 2017

Automatic/controlled processing theory maintains that the consistent components of complex skills improve most substantially with training, and that part-task training (PTT) programs should therefore focus on the consistent elements of skilled performance. As an initial step in applying automatic processing principles to PTT, Fisk and Eggemeier (1988) developed a task analytic methodology to identify the consistent components of complex skills. This paper describes the application of the methodology to operator skills required in a complex tactical command and control (C2) system. The results indicate that the methodology can be used to identify a variety of consistent components of complex performance. Possible applications to PTT and issues for future training research are discussed.
Effects of Modes of Computer-Based Training on Learning and Retention
Authors: Bogner M. Sue , Evans Susan M.
Published: July 2017

The paper describes an investigation of the effects of computer-based training (CBT) delivery methods on learning and retention in target recognition and identification tasks. Two training methods (drill and practice, and branching computer aided instruction) were administered to subjects at two locations. Measures of cognitive complexity also were obtained on each subject and compared against test scores. Results confirmed that learning did occur with both CBT methods. Results also suggest that training design is not straightforward, and must consider a number of student and training site factors as well as the topic to be trained. Trends, while not highly significant, do suggest directions for further research.
The Design of Automotive Acoustic Environments: Using Subjective Methods to Improve Engine Sound Quality
Authors: Otto Norman C. , Wakefield Gregory H.
Published: July 2017

The sensory environment of the vehicle is an area where customer expectations have greatly increased in recent years. For example, sound quality has become a very important factor in determining customer perception of vehicle quality and value. In this paper, a method for evaluating sound quality is presented and used in an engine design application. As part of the design of a future midsize vehicle, 14 engine component modifications were being considered as ways to improve sound quality. A subjective evaluation was carried out to determine if these modifications had any effect on perceived sound quality and, if so, which modifications provided the greatest sound quality benefit. A paired comparison method was used in which subjects judged, first, similarity and, then, preference. The similarity results showed that the vehicle sounds were indeed perceived quite differently. Additional analysis, using multidimensional scaling, revealed that most of these differences could be attributed to just three of the modifications (lightweight valvetrain, crankshaft counterweight, and accessory drive). The preference results confirmed that these three components also governed the valuative judgements. As a result of this study, these modified components were included in the final vehicle design. More generally, the subjective evaluation and analysis procedure described here offers a means for bringing human factors into the design of automotive acoustic environments.
Menu System Suited to Novice and Experienced Users of an Automobile Navigation System
Authors: Loring Beth A. , Wiklund Michael E. , Smith Clark
Published: July 2017

Computer-based products require designers to make trade-offs between the product's initial and long term ease of use. The trade-off decisions are particularly important in the design of a computer-based automobile navigation system (ANS). An ANS designed for the mass market must serve the needs of both first time users, such as rental car drivers, and those who may purchase cars equipped with the device and use it on a daily basis. In our efforts to design the user interface to an ANS, we sought a means to protect new users from advanced functions that would frustrate the early learning experience. At the same time, we sought a smooth method for everyday users to access advanced functions. In this paper, we briefly explain automobile navigation systems, and then discuss our design solution.
The Influence of Audio-Video Instruction on Consumers' Selection of Nutritious Food Products
Authors: Jessen Diane M. , Wogalter Michael S.
Published: July 2017

The present research investigates procedures for educating people on the use of nutritional labeling. The methods incorporate instructional audio-video media in conjunction with active decision making and immediate feedback. Three groups of participants (audio-video only, audio-video plus active decision making/feedback, and no-instruction control) were asked to chose the more nutritious products from pairs of similar products based on the information on the labels. The results showed that audio-video media improved the accuracy of the product-pair selections and nutrition knowledge. No additional benefit of active decision making and feedback was found. A follow-up product choice test given approximately one week later showed that performance for the two audio-video conditions was maintained, but there were no differences between conditions primarily because of a nonsignificant increase by the control group. However, the follow-up testing showed that the two audio-video groups had greater nutrition knowledge than the control group. Additional analyses showed that demographic variables such as gender, occupation, income level, health status, and special diet were related to product-choice and nutrition test performance. This research advances empirical work in this area, first, by showing an effective and efficient way to educate the public on nutrition and food label information, and second, by employing a performance measure (consumer choice) that might be useful in future research examining differences between food label formats and education strategies.
The Expert Witness
Authors: Weaver Jeanne L. , Kearns Jada D. , Urban Julie M.
Published: July 2017

Although human factors principles have become increasingly well accepted within the legal community, there are new human factors professionals who have little familiarity with the expert witnessing process. While there are other sources which address specific issues related to forensic psychology, this paper seeks to provide a broad overview of related topics. Among the topics discussed are ethical considerations, information regarding the legal process, and suggestions regarding courtroom presentation.
The Human Factors Toxicologist
Authors: Urban Julie M. , Braun Curt C. , Weaver Jeanne L.
Published: July 2017

Toxicology is a relatively new science in which much work is needed. The human factors professional is uniquely qualified to contribute to this field in a variety of ways. On a long-term basis, the work of the human factors professional is needed for a) the development of appropriate testing procedures to identify situations of unknown exposure, and b) the monitoring of research on the effects of specific toxins to serve the basis of legal exposure standards. There is also an immediate need for the human factors professional's knowledge of systems integration, design, and training to protect the human from the toxins to which he/she may be currently exposed in a variety of environments.
Autonet: An Application of a Neural Network Simulation as a Tool for Planning Office Layout
Authors: O'Neill Michael J.
Published: July 2017

When people have trouble finding their way through office settings, there are costs in terms of poor communication, lost efficiency, time, and stress (Brill, et. al., 1984; O'Neill, 1991; Weisman, 1981; Zimring, 1981). To cope with wayfinding problems, facilities managers often have to resort to partial solutions, like complex signage, color coding schemes, and other methods to guide people. AutoNet is an experimental computer-aided design and planning tool that predicts the paths people will take through a building based on the layout of the space and their level of experience. AutoNet represents environmental information by using an artificial ‘neural network’ simulation. The mechanisms of this simulation are based on the physiology of the brain. Knowledge about the layout of the environment is represented through a network of interconnected processing elements, modeled on the behavior of groups of neurons in the brain. Thus it can create its own rules for predicting worker behavior rather than using predetermined sets of rules that a typical expert system would rely on. This system has great flexibility since there are no rules to rewrite for each setting it evaluates. The predictive validity of this simulation was empirically validated (O'Neill, 1991). This software runs within a popular and commonly available CAD software package in an MS-DOS environment. AutoNet is viewed as a “macro-ergonomic” tool to enhance the office work environment (Hedge & Ellis, 1990).
Development of Prediction Models for Physical Work Capacity: Practical and Theoretical Implications
Authors: Schacherer Chris , Rowe Anna , Jackson Andrew S.
Published: July 2017

The use of pre-employment physical abilities tests has often been criticized as discriminatory to women, older people, and members of certain minority groups. In the present study, body composition (% fat) and VO2 Max were measured in a sample of 771 men and 159 women ranging in age from 21 to 66 years. A hierarchical regression analysis revealed that body composition, age, gender, and the interaction between gender and body composition all accounted for statistically significant proportions of variance in VO2 Max. The results are discussed in terms of their support for the validity of pre-employment physical abilities tests for placement in jobs with a high aerobic component.
Reach Posture Prediction of Upper Limb for Ergonomic Workspace Evaluation
Authors: Jung Eui S. , Kee Dohyung , Chung Min K.
Published: July 2017

Proper assessment of reach posture is one of the essential functions for ergonomic workspace evaluation in CAD systems with a built-in man-model. In this study, Each upper limb is modelled as a four-link system, consisting of trunk, upper arm, lower arm, and hand, being regarded as a redundant manipulator with a total of eight degrees of freedom. Inverse kinematics is introduced in this study to predict the trajectory of multi-link segmental movement. Among several kinematic methods for solving the multi-link system, the resolved motion method was found to be effective to solve this redundant manipulator model, and the joint range availability was used as a performance function in order to guarantee local optimality. Real reach postures taken from the subject were analyzed by Motion Analysis System and showed reasonable results when compared to those obtained from the model.
The Effects of Tool Type and Barrier on Time Required for a Remove and Replace Task
Authors: Kancler David E. , Robbins Glen C. , Moroney William F. , Biers David W.
Published: July 2017

The Air Force's CREW CHIEF is a computer-graphics model of the physical characteristics of a maintenance technician. It is used to evaluate the ability of maintenance personnel to work in areas with respect to arm reach, operation of hand tools, strength available for torquing with wrenches, strength for manual materials handling, vision analysis, and accessibility analysis. A new CREW CHIEF feature under development is the Task Time Estimator, which will predict the time required to perform a remove/replace task in an obstructed environment. The goal of this experiment was to gather time to completion data and determine the effect of different tool type combinations.

The task, performed while standing erect in a simulated work area, was to remove and replace a flange coupling while reaching through a six by eight inch opening. On half of the trials a barrier was positioned so as to restrict hand and tool movement. On the other half of the trials, no barrier was used. Thirty subjects, representative of USAF personnel, were divided into five groups, each of which utilized a different combination of wrenches (ratchet/box, box/box, box/open, open/box, and open/open).

The ratchet/box and box/box tool combination resulted in the fastest completion times. The open/box combination resulted in intermediate completion times, while the box/open and open/open conditions produced the slowest completion times. Barrier presence increased the time required to complete both tasks and removal took less time than installation. Several noteworthy interactions and implications regarding tool selection are discussed.
Industrial Quantification of Occupationally-Related Low Back Disorder Risk Factors
Authors: Marras William S. , Lavender Steven A. , Leurgans Sue E. , Rajulu Sudhakar L. , Allread W. Gary , Fathallah Fadi A. , Ferguson Sue A.
Published: July 2017

Few assessment technigues have attempted to define the role of occupational trunk motion in the risk of occupationally-related low back disorder (LBD) even though laboratory studies have indicated that motion significantly Increases spine loading. An in-vivo study was performed to assess the contribution of three- dimensional dynamic trunk motions to the risk of LBD during occupational lifting in industry. Over 400 industrial lifting jobs were studied in 48 industries. Specific manual materials handling jobs historically identify as either high risk or low risk for LBD were identified. A tri-axial electrogoniometer was worn by workers and documented the three-dimensional trunk motion characteristics associated with these high risk or low risk jobs. Workplace characteristics such as load moment arm, load weight, etc. were also documented for each of the repetitive lifting tasks. A multiple logistic regression model indicated that a combination of five trunk motion and workplace factors (lifting frequency, load moment, trunk lateral velocity, trunk twisting velocity, and trunk sagittal angle) predicted occupational-related LBD risk well. The analyses have enabled us to determine the LBD risk associated with combined changes in the magnitudes of the five factors. This model could be used as a quantitative, objective measure to redesign the workplace so that the risk of occupationally-related LBD is minimized.
Grip Strength as a Function of Forearm Rotation and Elbow Posture
Authors: Marley Robert J. , Wehrman Rob R.
Published: July 2017

An investigation was performed to assess the effect of forearm rotation (pronation and supination) and elbow orientation upon maximum grip strength of 10 male and 10 female subjects. Seven positions of forearm rotation which ranged from 90 degrees pronation to 90 degrees supination in both the 90 degree elbow flexion (arm adducted, forearm horizontal) and 0 degree flexion (shoulder flexed, whole-arm extended forward and horizontal) postures were examined. Thus a total combination of 14 postures were documented. Results indicate that maximum grip strength decreased significantly with forearm pronation, relative to the “neutral” forearm posture (p = 0.086). Other rotation postures did not yield significantly different grip strength from the neutral, but there was a clear decreasing trend in grip strength with forearm rotation away from neutral, particularly in pronation. The 0 degree elbow flexion showed the highest average grip strength values compared to 90 degree elbow flexion postures. Also, in the 90 degree elbow flexion posture, grip strength tended to increase with some supination from neutral rotation. It is recommended that for repetitive grasping activities, the arm and forearm postures should be considered in evaluating maximum grip strength. A regression model is presented to estimate maximum grip strength as a function of forearm rotation and elbow posture.
The Effects of Forearm Posture, Wrist Posture, Gender, and Hand on Three Peak Pinch Force Types
Authors: Hallbeck M. Susan , Kamal Abe H. , Harmon Paul E.
Published: July 2017

In many industries the hand is utilized as a fixture, pinching in various wrist postures and forearm postures. In an effort to quantify the effects of wrist posture, forearm posture, gender, and dominant/non-dominant hand upon three peak pinch forces, a study was performed. Three pinch types were tested in this study: index pad pinch, middle pad pinch, and three-jaw chuck pinch force. For each pinch exertion condition, one of five wrist postures were employed: neutral, 45° extension, 65° extension, 45° flexion, and 65° flexion. Each pinch was also performed in one of three forearm postures: neutral, full pronation, and full supination. Ten subjects between 20–25 years of age within each gender category were tested giving a total of 20 subjects. Each subject was asked to build up to his or her maximal voluntary contraction using a modified Caldwell regimen, and hold that pinch level for three seconds. Results were analyzed using analysis of variance (ANOVA) with significant effects (gender, hand, pinch type, wrist posture, and forearm posture) tested using post hoc analysis. The results and their implications are discussed.
Perceived Effectiveness of Danger Signs: A Multivariate Analysis
Authors: Polzella Donald J. , Gravelle Michael D. , Klauer Ken M.
Published: July 2017

Fifty-eight subjects were shown randomly-ordered facsimiles of 80 OSHA-standard danger signs and rated the signs on 13 dimensions related to perceived effectiveness. The data were analyzed by means of principal components analysis and a series of multivariate and univariate analyses of variance. Signs containing a hazard label and instructions (e.g., GASOLINE - NO SMOKING) were rated as least likely to be recalled at a later time; however, they were rated as easiest to understand, most informative, and most likely to be complied with. Signs containing a hazard label only (e.g., POISON) were rated as least informative and most difficult to understand; however, they were rated as most likely to be recalled, as depicting a high degree of danger, and likely to be complied with. Signs containing instructions only (DO NOT ENTER) were rated as generally less effective.
Effects of Warning Signal Words on Consumer-Product Hazard Perceptions
Authors: Wogalter Michael S. , Jarrard Stephen W. , Simpson S. Noel
Published: July 2017

This experiment investigated the influence of warning signal words and a signal icon on perceptions of hazard for consumer products. Under the pretext of a marketing research study, 90 high school and college students rated product labels on variables such as product familiarity, frequency of use, and perceived hazard. Sixteen labels from actual household products were used and stored on a computer. Nine of the products labels were used to carry the nine signal word conditions. Five conditions presented the signal words NOTE, CAUTION, WARNING, DANGER, and LETHAL together with a brief warning message. In two other conditions a signal icon (exclamation point surrounded by a triangle) was presented together with the terms DANGER and LETHAL. The final two conditions were controls, one had a warning message but had no signal word, and the other had no warning message or signal word. Seven product labels were “fillers” that never contained a warning. Results showed that the presence of a signal word increased perceived hazard compared to its absence. Between extreme terms (e.g., NOTE and DANGER), significant differences were noted, but not between terms usually recommended in warning design guidelines. The presence of the signal icon had no significant effect on hazard perception. Implications of the results and the value of the research methodology for future warnings” investigations are discussed.
Initial Driver Foot Placement as an Antecedent to Pedal Error
Authors: Roush Laura , Pezoldt V. J. , Brackett R. Quinn
Published: July 2017

Two observational studies were conducted to examine driver foot pedal operation characteristics which may influence pedal activation errors. Driver behaviors were observed during controlled closed-course and natural driving situations to document individual pedal operating characteristics. A substantial portion of the drivers in both studies shifted from park to forward and/or reverse gears without positioning a foot over or on the brake pedal. A small percentage of drivers used both feet for pedal activation. The results of these studies suggest that pedal design and layout should take these behaviors into consideration. Either method would likely be less accurate and potentially more hazardous than when the right foot is directly over the brake pedal, and suggests the efficacy of a mechanical interlock to prevent gear selection from park to either forward or reverse gears until contact with the brake pedal is made.
Individual Differences and Driver Response to Highway Intersections
Authors: Grubb Monty G.
Published: July 2017

Along the Nation's roadways one of the most dangerous environments is the intersection. Accident investigations suggest several individual driver characteristics that may be associated with increased risk at intersections. To analyze the relationships of a number of driver characteristics to driver behavior in a controlled setting a laboratory simulation of the roadway intersection was created. Seventy-two research participants, ranging in age from 18 to 74, were measured on a battery of performance tests, administered questionnaires related to health and driving history, and exposed to a video display of approaching intersections as driver responses were measured. Each participant viewed 14 intersections containing a variety of traffic control devices. During the driving simulation portion of the research workload was assessed using six variables chosen to reflect three response modes-performance, subjective, and physiological. A MANOVA conducted to analyze the 3 (age level) by 2 (gender) factorial design indicated a main effect for both age and gender, based on three of the dependent variables-pedal response errors, speed of response, and heart rate reactivity. The responses to the intersection simulation indicated greater workloads for older drivers and female drivers. In a second phase of the data analysis stepwise multiple regressions were used to determine which independent variables, from among a set of driver characteristics, functioned as the best predictors of these performance decrements. As expected from the earlier MANOVA and univariate tests, age accounted for more variance in driver response than any single information processing variable. However, information processing variables that were most predictive of performance decrements included: field dependency, visual acuity, and depth perception.
Mental Models of Metal Models: A Comparison of Mental Model Measurement Techniques
Authors: Rowe Anna L. , Cooke Nancy J. , Neville Kelly J. , Schacherer Chris W.
Published: July 2017

Although use of the mental model construct has proliferated in recent research, the construct lacks a clear definition and an agreed upon method of measurement. Furthermore, the reliability and validity of the different measurement techniques in use have not been established, thereby making generalizations across studies of mental models difficult. The purpose of the current project was to assess several methods of measuring mental models in terms of their reliability/stability over time. Subjects” mental models of the automobile engine system were elicited on two occasions separated by one week, using seven different knowledge elicitation techniques. Subjects” level of experience was also measured to allow comparisons between experts and novices. The results indicate that each of the measurement techniques tended to be reliable for both experts and novices. However, reliability tended to be greater for experts than novices. Additionally, experts tended to agree with each other more than did the novices. Some evidence also indicated that the results from the similarity ratings and subsequent Pathfinder analysis converged with those from the structured interviews.
Engine Sound Quality Evaluation Using Semantic Differential Method
Authors: Wei Kuang C. , Otto Norman C.
Published: July 2017

There is an emerging effort in the automotive industry to explore a new horizon of quality, e.g. sensory comfort, beyond the traditional measure of reliability and durability. This is evidenced by the birth of a new engineering field, referred to here as sensory engineering. The objective is to evaluate and characterize human's feeling and incorporate these findings into the engineering and design of the product. In this paper, engine sounds from various passenger vehicles were examined using this approach. Five sound samples under wide-open-throttle acceleration condition and five under constant speed conditions were evaluated using the semantic differential method. Results showed that subject's perception of these sounds can be very well characterized in a semantic space made of three factor axes. Significant difference of mean factor scores appeared along ‘smooth, reliable, & desirable’, ‘loud/whining’, and ‘special & modern’ axes. These results can be used to refine the engine design to achieve a better acoustic quality of the engine.
Power to the People
Authors: O'Connor C
Published: July 2017

This article demonstrates how the infection control team (ICT) in a large teaching hospital introduced a patient empowerment programme into their hand hygiene and clinical governance strategy.

The aim of the initiative was to increase compliance with hand hygiene. The objectives were to reduce hospital acquired infections (HAI), empower the patient in hand hygiene and make quality improvements.

The initiative was undertaken in the orthopaedic directorate over a period of eight weeks and involved all the multidisciplinary team. Soap and alcohol gel usage were monitored closely during the trial.

As a result of empowering the patient in hand hygiene, there was a significant increase in alcohol gel and soap usage (70% and 14% respectively). It also raised hand hygiene awareness both for patients and healthcare workers. Further studies are recommended to determine if HAI are to be reduced.
Efficient Mechanics of PIP Mobilisation Splinting
Authors: Colditz Judy C
Published: July 2017

The proximal interphalangeal (PIP) joint, a tightly constructed hinge joint, frequently develops limited motion following injury. Mobilisation splints are the most frequently used method of regaining PIP joint motion following isolated PIP injury.

This article reviews a variety of PIP mobilisation splints, which the author has found effective. In addition to discussing the biomechanics of PIP extension and flexion mobilisation splinting, a variety of designs are offered for PIP extension mobilisation and one design for PIP flexion mobilisation. Clinical problems discussed include: PIP extension lag, PIP flexion contracture responsive to stretch (including acute boutonniere), PIP joint contracture unresponsive to stretch, and gaining/maintaining the last few degrees of PIP extension in a resistive contracture as well as isolated PIP flexion mobilisation. For all splints, construction advice and other tips are given for successful use of these designs.
A Prospective Study of Range of Movement following Metacarpophalangeal Joint Replacements: Optimum Time of Recovery
Authors: Delaney Rachel , Stanley John K
Published: July 2017

43 patients with Swanson arthroplasties of the metacarpophalangeal joint (MCPJ) were followed up for a minimum of 12 months. The range of movement was measured at two weeks post surgery, and then at monthly intervals up to one year. The aim of this study was to identify at which point in a specific time period there was the greatest improvement in range of motion, and at which point improvement slowed or ceased.

The results were analysed to identify the optimum range of movement in flexion and extension and the time taken to achieve this range. The maximum active flexion was achieved at a mean of 16.4 weeks following surgery (65 degrees); extension lag improved up to 12 months and the mean at this time was 14.9 degrees.
The Therapists View of the H.A.T.S. Project
Authors: Murray Karen , Simpson Catherine
Published: July 2017

In March 1995, Mike Topping from Rehab Robotics at Staffordshire University was seeking advice from therapists to develop applications for the Handy I Robot and its use for the treatment of hand injuries in a therapeutic environ-ment. This envisaged the treatment being administered by a Robot. Through discussion between therapists and the engineering team it emerged that it would be more beneficial to develop a stand alone assessment tool that would assist in the treatment of patients who experience all types of hand pathology. The Hand Assessment and Treatment System (H.A.T.S.) was underway.
The Technique of Suction - Varying Experiences of Application
Authors: Otthiers Jacques
Published: July 2017

Suction techniques have been used in some parts of Europe for the past few years in Therapy for the treatment of scar adhesions.
Blown Film Characterization of Metallocene Resins Made in the Phillips Slurry Loop Process
Authors: Sukhadia Ashish M.
Published: July 2017

Metallocene catalyst polyolefins are widely regarded as a new generation of resins entering the marketplace. A number of metallocene catalyzed linear low density polyethylene (m-LLDPE) resins, ranging in density from 0.905-0.942 g/cc and in melt index (MI) from 0.7-3 MI, were made using the Phillips slurry loop process; these resins referred to as PPCo-M, were evaluated for blown film applications. The effects of density, molecular weight, processing aid, slip/antiblock agents and film thickness on the processability, film property performance (impact and tear strengths) and clarity of blown films were examined in detail in this work. Metallocene resins produced in the Phillips slurry loop process offer a very good balance of processability and performance characteristics, which can be further optimized for various applications by appropriate choice of resin and processing conditions.
The Effect of Glycopyrrolate on the Incidence of Hypotension and Vasopressor Requirement During Spinal Anesthesia for Cesarean Delivery: A Meta-analysis
Authors: Patel Selina D. , Habib Ashraf S. , Phillips Sioned , Carvalho Brendan , Sultan Pervez
Published: July 2017

BACKGROUND:

The objective of this meta-analysis was to determine the efficacy of glycopyrrolate at reducing spinal hypotension during cesarean delivery.

METHODS:

A literature search was performed to identify randomized controlled trials investigating the effect of glycopyrrolate on spinal-induced hypotension during cesarean delivery. Primary outcomes were intraoperative hypotension and vasopressor requirement (phenylephrine equivalents). Secondary outcomes included heart rate (HR), nausea and vomiting, dry mouth, and Apgar scores. Risk ratios (RRs), and mean differences (MDs) were calculated using random-effects modeling with 95% confidence intervals for primary outcomes and 99% confidence intervals for secondary outcomes.

RESULTS:

Five randomized controlled trials met our inclusion criteria. A total of 311 patients were included: 153 received glycopyrrolate and 158 placebo. The incidence of spinal-induced hypotension was no different with prophylactic glycopyrrolate compared to control (RR, 0.93 [0.71–1.21]; P = .59), but the total phenylephrine dose required was significantly reduced with glycopyrrolate (MD, −62.64 μg [−107.61 to −17.66 μg]; P = .006). The maximal HR achieved in the glycopyrrolate group was significantly higher compared to controls (MD, 15.85 bpm [5.40–26.31]; P < .0001); however, the incidence of bradycardia was not statistically different. The incidence of intraoperative nausea and vomiting was not different between groups; however, glycopyrrolate increased the risk of dry mouth (RR, 5.15 [1.82–14.57]; P < .0001). Apgar scores at 1 and 5 minutes did not differ between groups.

CONCLUSIONS:

Prophylactic glycopyrrolate does not reduce the incidence of spinal-induced hypotension but results in a modest reduction in vasopressor requirements while increasing maternal HR.
Conceptualizing and Defining the Intention Construct for Future Physical Activity Research
Authors: Rhodes Ryan E. , Rebar Amanda L.
Published: July 2017

Intention has been an extremely important concept in physical activity theory and research but is complicated by a double-barreled definition of a decision to perform physical activity and the commitment to enact that decision. We put forth the hypothesis that these separate meanings have different measurement requirements, are situated in distinctly different intention-based models, and show discrete findings when explaining physical activity motives.
Fueling the Triathlete: Evidence-Based Practical Advice for Athletes of All Levels
Authors: Getzin Andrew R. , Milner Cynthia , Harkins Marie
Published: July 2017

Triathletes need to effectively fuel during training and racing to maximize their potential for success. While most research on fueling has focused on elite male triathletes, triathlon participation encompasses a broader demographic of racers ranging from those with aspirations of winning to those whose goals are completion. Carbohydrate is the primary macronutrient for fueling endurance activities. Athletes can usually tolerate 60 to 90 mg·h−1 in the form of multiple different carbohydrate sources. Athletes should drink as thirst dictates and consider sodium replacement of sweat loss especially in individuals with a history of exercise-associated muscle cramps. Caffeine is a known ergogenic aid that could be dosed at 3 mg·kg−1 to maximize benefits of mental alertness while limiting potential side effects. Athletes need to balance fueling with development of exercise-induced gastrointestinal syndrome. As demographics of race participants change, understanding the special fueling needs of obese triathletes can encourage participation while minimizing bad outcomes.
Nutritional Supplements for the Treatment and Prevention of Sports-Related Concussion—Evidence Still Lacking
Authors: Trojian Thomas H. , Wang David H. , Leddy John J.
Published: July 2017

Concussions are common neurologic events that affect many athletes. Very little has been studied on the treatment of concussions with supplements and medications. The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) reminds us that no supplement has been proven to treat concussions. Many animal studies show that supplements have potential for improving the effects of a brain injury but none have been shown to be of consistent benefit in human studies. Animal studies on severe traumatic brain injury (TBI) may not therefore be applicable transfer to sports-related concussions (SRC).

Of the many supplements reviewed in this article, omega-3 fatty acids (Ω-3 FA) have potential for SRC treatment but in the one human trial those taking higher dosages preinjury had more concussions. In animal studies, postinjury administration was as effective as pretreatment. N-acetyl-cysteine has demonstrated a positive short-term effect on blast injuries in soldiers if administered within 24 h, but there are no studies in SRC. Caffeine, conversely, may be detrimental if taken after SRC. Lower serum levels of vitamins D, C, or E preinjury have worse outcomes in animal studies. Preinjury correction of deficiencies may be of benefit. Current human trials for nicotinamide ribose, melatonin, and branched chain amino acids (BCAA) may soon provide more evidence for the use of these supplements to reduce the impact of SRC in athletes.
The genetics behind rare health conditions; and myasthenia gravis
Authors: Barber Chris
Published: July 2017

Although, for the purpose of this series, rare health conditions are those that affect no more—and usually fewer—than 1 person in every 2000, many HCAs and nurses will encounter some of these conditions, given the high number of them. This second article will explore one of these conditions, myasthenia gravis, and will place this within a discussion of the forms and mechanisms of genetic inheritance in relation to rare health conditions.
Filling the empty hours
Authors: Hong Chia Swee
Published: July 2017

As a result of suggestions made by a number of patients about the ‘empty hours’ between 1pm and 4pm, a healthcare assistant and an occupational therapy (OT) student undertook a process mapping exercise and followed up by facilitating a trial three 30-minute ‘tea and chat’ sessions per week for a month. Overall, the sessions—which aimed to bring the patients together as a group—had positive social effects by reducing loneliness and enhancing friendship among the patients.
Why written objectives need to be really SMART
Authors: Ogbeiwi Osahon
Published: July 2017

There is general agreement that plans without well-formulated goals lack rationale, strategies lack relevance, actions lack direction, projects lack accountability, and organisations lack purpose ( Mullins, 1999 ; Beardshaw and Palfreman, 1990 ; Bratton, et al, 2007 ). Moreover, goals need to be properly constructed to serve as credible and usable benchmarks by which the results can be monitored and evaluated via immediate outputs, intermediate outcomes over the short term or terminal impacts in the long term ( Greenbank, 2001 ; Fitsimmons, 2008 ; Bipp and Kleingeld, 2011 ). Thus, it is a basic requirement of effective goal setting that objective statements are formulated using a clear and logical structure or framework. This article analyses examples of objective statements drawn from the literature and concludes that none of these can be truly described as SMART 1 , posing the risk that organisations using them as guide will fail to attain their goals.
Preparing for exam results duties
Authors: Chima Jugjit
Published: July 2017

The job of an exams officer is most certainly not done once the summer exams series is completed. Jugjit Chima runs through the main duties and responsibilities of exams officers in the coming weeks and months
Introducing the Wellbeing Award for Schools
Authors: Feuchtwang Anna
Published: July 2017

With thousands of children on anti-depressants, Anna Feuchtwang says that one part of the solution could be schools that focus more on wellbeing
States of Impunity: Bhutanese Refugee Camps in Nepal
Authors: Neikirk Alice M , Nickson Ray
Published: July 2017

Refugee camps are generally conceived as an indication of ongoing conflict. As refugee generating conflicts become increasingly complex and protracted, however, camps become sites of post-conflict reconstruction. This has been the experience for the Bhutanese refugees who have lived in camps for close to thirty years, and are subject to numerous efforts to reconstruct their lives, community and economy. The international organizations that fund and manage the camps have directed their attention to the society of victims, rather than the state that perpetrated the crimes. Yet because the population lacks citizenship and their camps exist within another post-conflict state, these reconstruction efforts have contributed to corruption and exploitation. This article highlights that when post-conflict reconstruction is used to transform populations rather than states, these efforts may foster corruption because they allow the original perpetrating state to act with impunity.
Lustration Beyond Decommunization: Responding to the Crimes of the Powerful in Post-Euromaidan Ukraine
Authors: Zabyelina Yuliya
Published: July 2017

The 2014 Euromaidan revolution, which started as a non-violent demonstration for European integration, eventually gave rise to a nation-wide movement against the usurpation of power, corruption, and human rights violations. One of the main demands of Euromaidan protesters to the new government was to launch a comprehensive personnel reform that would cleanse the state apparatus from public officials of the Communist era (1919–1991) and those affiliated with the Yanukovych regime (2010–2014). This article examines the lustration process in post-Euromaidan Ukraine through the prism of earlier personnel reforms, mainly in Central and Eastern Europe (CEE), and discusses the similarities and differences between them. The analysis focuses on two key features that make the Ukrainian case stand out across CEE lustrations. First, Ukraine's lustration reconciled transitional justice with socio-economic imperatives, such as the fight against corruption, not only as a discursive practice but also a legal matter. Second, unlike CEE lustrations the Ukrainian government implemented lustration 23 years after the fall of Communism and during the ongoing military confrontation in eastern Ukrainian Donetsk and Luhansk regions (Donbas). The article contributes to the literature on the evolution of transitional justice which has expanded far beyond the conventional redress for past human rights violations and may now incorporate peacebuilding and structural justice agendas.
Alexandre e Aquiles: do herói ao humano
Authors: Liparotti Renan Marques
Published: July 2017

Os discursos A Fortuna ou a Virtude de Alexandre Magno, parte do conjunto das Obras Morais de Plutarco, constituem‑se de um retrato de Alexandre, do qual, destaca‑se, neste estudo, o aspecto do desenho de Alexandre como guerreiro. Para isso, teceu‑se uma análise em contraponto entre a Vida de Alexandre e as obras homéricas, buscando valorizar como nas imagens o Queronês delineia os traços de Alexandre como guerreiro e soma‑lhe as tintas com que Homero colorira Aquiles. Concluiu‑se que, literariamente, ao aproximarmos Alexandre ao Aquiles de Homero, um herói humano, dotado de virtudes e de vícios, aproveitamo‑nos da capacidade plástica do mito e unimos o Macedónio a uma tradição histórica que retrata o herói como falível, capaz de cometer o erro (hamartia), devido a sua fragilidade humana, o que afere responsabilidade por seu declínio.
Medicinal Plant Growing under Sub-optimal Conditions in trans-Himalaya Region at High Altitude
Authors: Bhadrecha Pooja , Kumar Vivek , Kumar Manoj
Published: July 2017

Supporting people’s culture, income and healthcare, medicinal plants are of a great importance in Himalayas. Trading these herbal formulations worldwide is earning billions. But since the demand of such splendid plant and plant products has tremendously hiked in past two decades, and because of the unstable environmental changes due to global warming and industrialisation, these significant species are in threat of extinction. To preserve these treasures, several technical steps have been adopted by the government. A successful establishment of plants sector will raise rural empowerment, boost international commerce and contribute to health of millions worldwide. Alongside highlighting the major medicinal plant species and their uses, this review also foregrounds traditional medicinal practitioners, regions of trans-Himalayas rich in medicinal plants, major threats to these plants, significant biomolecules and detection techniques, threats to these plants, and government bodies and their responsibilities for their conservation.
Dynamic Inversion Control for Performing Herbst Manoeuver with Lateral Center-of-Gravity Offset
Authors: Mukherjee Bijoy K. , Sinha Manoranjan
Published: July 2017

The present study addresses the effects of lateral center-of-gravity (CG) movement, resulting from asymmetric firing of some of the onboard stores, on the dynamics and control of a combat aircraft while attempting the highly demanding Herbst manoeuver. The complete six degree-of-freedom equations of motion of the aircraft for such lateral CG offset are derived in two different body reference frames attached either to the symmetric nominal CG location or to the shifted asymmetric CG location. The Herbst manoeuver is first simulated using nonlinear dynamic inversion based control to handle the highly nonlinear post stall flight dynamics considering the standard equation of motion without considering any lateral CG variation. Thereafter, it is observed that if the same controller is retained, the manoeuver performance deteriorates significantly even when the CG undergoes a moderate lateral shift. To overcome this shortfall, closed loop controllers are next designed incorporating both the models of asymmetric dynamics as derived in this paper. It is validated through MATLAB simulations that both the controls, thus designed, can recover the original manoeuver performance almost completely; however, the first one requires more complex computations and hence increased computation time while the second one requires that all the measurements be transformed to the new body reference frame at every time step.
Demonstration of Fabricated Midwave Infrared InAs/GaSb Type-II Superlattice-based Focal Plane Arrays
Authors: Kumari K.C. Goma , Rawool H.M. , Chakrabarti S.
Published: July 2017

In this study, fabricated 320 × 256 infrared focal plane arrays (FPAs) were realised using a GaSb/InAs-based type-II superlattice heterostructure for midwave infrared (MWIR) imaging. We report here the optimized fabrication and characterization of single-pixel infrared detectors and FPAs. MWIR spectral response up to 5 μm of these single-pixel detectors was evident up to 250 K. Responsivity was measured to be 1.62 A/W at 0.8 V and 80 K. Current–voltage characteristics at room temperature (300 K) and at low temperature (18 K) revealed the resistance and dark current variation of the device in the operating bias region. Moreover, good thermal images were obtained at device temperatures up to 150 K for low-temperature targets. Low noise equivalent difference in temperature was measured to be 58 mK at 50 K and 117 mK at 120 K.