bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Genesis 37-50: Joseph Story or Israel-Joseph Story?
Authors: Golka Friedemann W.
Published: July 2017

This article will survey the history of research on Genesis 37-50 during the last generation. Its main proposition is that we are not dealing with a Joseph, but with an Israel-Joseph story. The arguments, therefore, no longer focus on source criticism, but on the question of tradition history, viz. whether chs. 38 and 49 have to be included. If this is accepted, a date in the Persian period for the entire pre-Priestly text suggests itself.
Utilization of Vinyl Coated Polyester Fabrics for Architectural Applications
Authors: Seaman Richard , Bradenburg Frank
Published: July 2017

High performance properties in an architectural fabric are achieved by the proper selection of the base fiber, the selected fabric weave, the appropriate formulated coating compounds, and the coating processes utilized to produce the fabric.
Flocking Technology
Authors: Bolgen Stig W.
Published: July 2017

This paper is a description of the flocking process for roll goods and three-dimensional objects. Both mechanical and electrostatic flocking processes are explained and common flocking substrates, adhesives, and fibers arc evaluated. The paper also includes a description of how flocking fibers are manufactured including dyeing, finishing, and drying.
Design and Testing of a Facility for Two-Way Video Teleconferencing
Authors: Cushman William H. , Derounian Robert
Published: July 2017

This report describes the design and testing of a facility for two-way video teleconferencing. The design process began by developing and distributing a survey to assess the needs of potential users, to develop a “user profile” for these individuals, and to determine their willingness to consider video teleconferencing as an alternative to “in person” meetings. In addition to the survey, design data were obtained from the human factors literature, site visits, interviews with users of existing video teleconferencing rooms, and rapid prototyping and user testing of alternative designs. Construction of the facility has been completed, and over 200 users have been trained to use the equipment. User reaction has been very favorable, with a majority of users expressing a desire to use the facility again.
Causal Uncertainty and Contextual Cues in the Recognition of Environmental Sounds
Authors: Mullins R. Timothy
Published: July 2017

Previous research has supported the hypothesis that the recognition of environmental sounds is complicated by uncertainty caused by the number of potential causes of that sound. In natural settings, contextual cues often help to specify the source of ambiguous sounds. This proposes the question of whether contextual cues can overpower auditory information to establish causal certainty of otherwise ambiguous environmental sounds. A study was conducted to examine this possibility. The results showed that contextual cues could have powerful effects on the judgement of the causal event of auditory stimuli. This result could have implications for tasks which are dependent on discrimination of auditory events. In particular, if a discrimination between two auditory events is critical, the effects of auditory context suggest that two or more possible alternatives might be indistinguishable in context and should be isolated for purposes of contrast.
Modelling Age Differences in Isometric Elbow Flexion Using Hill's Three-Element Visco-Elastic Model
Authors: Ellis R. Darin , Kotani Kentaro
Published: July 2017

A visco-elastic model of the mechanical properties of muscle was used to describe age-differences in the buildup of force in isometric elbow flexion. Given information from the literature on age-related physiological changes, such as decreasing connective-tissue elasticity, one would expect changes in the mechanical properties of skeletal muscle and their related model parameters. Force vs. time curves were obtained for 7 young (aged 21–27) and 7 old (aged 69–83) female subject. There were significant age group differences in steady-state force level and the best fitting model parameters. In particular, the viscous damping element of the model plays a large role in describing the increased time to reach steady-state force levels in the older subject group. Implications of this research include incorporating parameter differences into more complex models, such as crash impact models.
Human Factors and Ergonomics Society/ American National Standards Institute (ANSI/HFES) Software User Interface Standardization: Critical Issues
Authors: Reed Paul
Published: July 2017

This paper reviews recent developments in the area of software user interface standardization, and identifies issues that must be addressed before an effort to establish an American National Standards Institute (ANSI) software user interface standard can be successfully completed. Arguments supporting and opposing the establishment of software user interface standards are reviewed. Potential resolutions to the critical issues including technical, organizational, logistical, and political issues are identified and discussed.
Investigation of Feel for 6DOF Inputs: Isometric and Elastic Rate Control for Manipulation in 3D Environments
Authors: Zhai Shumin
Published: July 2017

An increasing need exists for both a theoretical basis and practical human factors guidelines for designing and selecting high degree-of-freedom (DOF) computer input devices for 3D interactive environments such as telerobotic and virtual reality systems. This study evaluates elastic versus isometric rate control devices, in a 3D object positioning task. An experiment was conducted with a stereoscopic virtual reality system. The results showed that the elastic rate controller facilitated faster task completion time in the first of four phases of the experiment. The results are discussed in light of psychomotor literature. While the richer proprioceptive feedback afforded by an elastic controller is necessary for achieving superior performance in the early stages of learning, subjects performed equally well with the isometric controller in later learning stages. The study provides evidence to support a theory of skill shift from closed-loop to open-loop behaviour as learning progresses.
Color versus Texture Coding to Improve Visual Search Performance
Authors: Perlman Gary , Swan J. Edward
Published: July 2017

An experiment is reported in which the relative effectiveness of color coding, texture coding, and no coding of target borders to speed visual search is determined. The following independent variables were crossed in a within-subjects factorial design: Color coding (present or not), Texture coding (present or not), Distance between similarly coded targets (near or far), Group size of similarly coded targets (1, 2, 3, or 4), and a Replication factor of target Border width (10, 20, or 30 pixels). Search times, errors, and subjective rankings of the coding methods were recorded. Results showed that color coding improved search time compared to no coding, but that texture coding was not effectively used by subjects, resulting in nearly identical times to uncoded targets. Subjective preference rankings reflected the time data. The adequate power of the experiment along with the results of preparatory pilot studies lead us to the conclusion that texture coding is not an effective coding method for improving visual search time.
Group Decision-Making during Trauma Patient Resuscitation and Anesthesia
Authors: Mackenzie Colin F. , Horst Richard L. , Mahaffey David L. ,   Level One Trauma Anesthesia Simulation (LOTAS) Group
Published: July 2017

We examined decision-making in the real-world environment of trauma patient resuscitation and anesthesia in a Level One Trauma Center. The present paper focuses on the risk factors in the trauma treatment environment that can lead to errors or misjudgments, and strategies that may be helpful in reducing these risks. Video and audio recordings were made of a number of trauma cases involving tracheal intubation, including both emergency intubations performed during resuscitation and “elective” intubations prior to surgery. Post-treatment questionnaires completed by anesthesia personnel suggested that their perceived misjudgments were primarily procedural errors caused by lack of preparation for low probability events, inadequate monitoring of available indices, or carelessness. However, video analyses of a subset of the cases by a non-participant anesthesiologist, in conjunction with examination of patient management records, not only confirmed the occurrence of such errors but also identified instances of knowledge-based errors, which caused subsequent cascades of adverse events. Video analysis also documented the shortcuts that are characteristic of emergency intubations. The post-treatment questionnaires also suggested an association between team interactions and anesthesiologist performance. To follow up on this, we transcribed and categorized verbal communications for several minutes before, during, and after intubation in a subset of cases. This analysis indicated that during emergency intubations not only was more information communicated than during elective intubations, but that there were increases specifically in the incidence of directives, comments conveying plans or strategies, and comments both seeking and offering needed information. The discussion presents a number of strategies that emerged from the present analyses for reducing the risk factors involved in trauma treatment decision-making.
Communications Headset Augmentation via Active Noise Cancellation: Attenuation and Speech Intelligibility Performance
Authors: Casall John G. , Gower Daniel W.
Published: July 2017

Active noise cancellation (ANC) techniques utilize electronic circuitry to provide a phase-inverted sound wave, or “anti-noise,” to physically cancel the energy in an offending noise. This technique, originally used for abatement of noise in sound fields, has recently been refined and adapted to headset communications systems to 1) improve the speech/noise (S/N) ratio at the ear, and 2) reduce the noise exposure threat to hearing. ANC poses several important human factors issues encompassing speech intelligibility performance, attenuation performance, reliability and maintainability, and appropriateness of application to specific noise problems, all of which are addressed briefly in this paper. Also discussed is an experiment using a Bose Aviation Headset in its ANC mode, a Bose Aviation Headset in its non-active mode, and a conventional (non-ANC) David Clark H10-76 Headset. The Bose ANC unit required a significantly higher S/N ratio in tank and pink noise environments than the two passive headset systems to maintain equal intelligibility at a 70% level, in part due to its stronger noise reduction and a higher required speech level. In regard to hearing protection performance, the ANC device exhibited a distinct advantage, resulting in lower projected OSHA daily noise doses than either passive headset, with the largest increment in protection occurring in the low frequency-biased tank noise.
Interactive Media for Communication / Advertising - a Feasibility Study and First Trial
Authors: Burns Rae , Deffner Gerhard
Published: July 2017

This paper describes the development and refinement of the ‘Interactive GuideTM’, a multimedia application designed to explore the potential use of interactive media for communication/advertising. The domain selected for this empirical evaluation was radial keratotomy, a surgical procedure to correct nearsightedness. Starting from an analysis of patient information needs, we conducted iterative cycles of design, review, and testing which focused on topic selection, presentation styles and usability. Usage data and feedback from subjects have been very encouraging, pointing to the potential of this approach to establish a new style of information delivery.
Variation in Trunk Mobility Throughout the Work Day
Authors: Fathallah Fadi A. , Wright Patrick L. , Marras William S.
Published: July 2017

Low back disorders have been a major concern for both industries and the public in general. Diurnal variation in trunk flexibility has been previously observed and quantified in terms of range of motion. It was hypothesized that decreased disc height as the day progresses allows the spinal ligaments to slacken, resulting in an increase in the range of motion (flexibility) and possible reduction in risk of injury. Evidence suggests that this risk may be accentuated under dynamic motions of the spine. This experiment focused on observing the change in dynamic components of trunk flexibility (trunk mobility) as a function of time of the day. Trunk motions of twenty-one male participants were obtained at three specific times of the day using a tri-axial electrogoniometer. No variation in trunk range of motion in any of the cardinal planes was observed. However, velocity and acceleration in the sagittal plane showed significant variations, suggesting the re-examination of the “slack ligaments” hypothesis. This study asserts that identifying flexibility by only its static component, range of motion, gives only partial information. Industrial injuries occurring in the early morning hours may be a result of insufficient trunk mobility. The relation between trunk mobility and back injury incidence rates should be further investigated.
The Effects of Posture and Technique on Forces Experienced When Hanging Continuous Miner Cable
Authors: Gallagher Sean , Hamrick Christopher A. , Redfern Mark S.
Published: July 2017

Analysis of lost-time back injuries in underground coal mines indicates that handling continuous miner cable places workers at high risk of injury. Manual hanging of this type of cable is a common lifting task in underground mines. This study was performed to assess the ground reaction forces associated with hanging cable in various postures and employing different methods of securing the cable. Seven experienced coal miners (mean age: 41.4 years ± 2.1) performed a series of 12 cable hanging tasks. Independent variables included a set of six posture/vertical space constraint conditions (LIFTCOND), and two techniques of securing the cable to the ceiling (METHOD). The dependent variables consisted of ground reaction forces measured using two force plates. LIFTCOND ( F5.66 = 21.31, p < 0.0001) and METHOD ( F1,66 = 10.89, p < 0.005) both significantly affected the magnitude of the peak resultant forces generated during the tasks. Post hoc analysis indicated that kneeling postures resulted in significantly lower forces than stooping for the same ceiling heights. Greater forces were associated with higher lifting conditions, attributable in part to the fact that higher lifts require more cable to be hoisted. Forces were also increased when subjects twisted baling wire to secure the cable, as compared to hanging it on a hook. An interaction between LIFTCOND and METHOD was identified with lateral shear forces - stooping conditions where the subjects twisted the cable with wire resulted in higher lateral shear forces. Results of this study will be used to develop recommendations to reduce back injury risk when handling cable.
Can Biomechanically Determined Stress be Perceived?
Authors: Thompson Deborah D. , Chaffin Don B.
Published: July 2017

Back and overexertion injuries are a costly and debilitating problem in industry. It has been suggested that the best protective action in the prevention of back injuries is to rely on a person's perception of the risks, and allow them to operate within them. However, this assumes that a person is aware of the sensory information from the body concerning unsafe levels of stress, particularly in the back. Unfortunately, there is some question as to whether this assumption is valid. The purpose of this study was to determine how well physical stress resulting from performing occasional lifting exertions could be perceived. This required an evaluation to determine how perception (psychophysical approach) relates to physical tolerances (biomechanical approach). The results showed that back stress resulting from occasional lifting exertions is not well perceived in general. The fact that the stress was not well perceived by some may indicate why low back injuries are so pervasive in the population, and why engineering and ergonomic changes are needed to reduce the exposure to conditions that would overstress the back.
Ergonomic Improvements in a Medical Device Assembly Plant: A Field Study
Authors: Narayan Mukund , Rudolph Linda
Published: July 2017

This study reports the results of an ergonomics demonstration project implemented at a medical device manufacturing plant that was concerned about the high incidence of upper extremity cumulative trauma disorders (UECTD). Plant records were reviewed to target high risk jobs for intervention and to establish baseline incidence and severity rates for future comparisons. A multi-disciplinary team based approach was to used identify problems and effect workplace changes. With the guidance of the ergonomist, the team conducted task analysis of selected high risk operations, developed solutions, validated them for feasibility and cost-effectiveness on a prototype workstation, and, after implementing the changes on the production line, measured the effectiveness of the changes. The plant-wide severity rate based on lost-time was reduced from 154.9 to 67.8 lost-time days per 200 000 worker-hours over a one-year period. The incidence and severity rates were reduced significantly for the redesigned jobs.
Development of an Object-oriented Anthropometric Database for an Ergonomic Man Model
Authors: Jung Eui S. , Kang Dongsoek , Han Sung H. , Chung Min K.
Published: July 2017

An object-oriented anthropometric database was developed as a framework of integrating into an ergonomic interface model, data for workplace modelling, and ergonomic evaluation functions as well as basic anthropometric data required to construct a man model. In order to develop an ergonomic man model representing operators that interact with their working environments, not only anthropometric data but also efficient handling of such data and accurate representation of the workspace are needed as a prerequisite to proper ergonomic evaluation. In this research, these three sets of data with distinct characteristics were incorporated into a common integrated database needed for the manipulation of an ergonomic man model together with the generation of an anthropometric man itself. An object-oriented database scheme was used for designing the database to achieve flexibility and expandability, and to efficiently interface to any CAD system. UniSQL/X, an object-oriented database management system and the X-window system on a SPARC workstation were used for implementation. The ergonomic man model generated from the object-oriented database is found to possess great flexibility and performance compared with existing ergonomic interface models or ergonomic CAD systems.
Retrospective versus Concurrent Thinking-Out-Loud in Usability Testing
Authors: Ohnemus Kenneth R. , Biers David W.
Published: July 2017

This study examined the effect of concurrent and retrospective thinking-out-loud (TOL) on the frequency and value of user verbalizations during a software usability test. Three groups of users first learned to use an off-the-shelf database management package by means of a short tutorial and then engaged in six structured tasks. Users in the Concurrent condition thought-out-loud while performing the six tasks, whereas those in Retrospective-Immediate and Retrospective-Delayed conditions thought-out-loud while watching the videotape of their interaction with the software. Results indicated that there were no significant differences among the three conditions in performance or subjective evaluation of the software. More importantly, a verbal protocol analysis revealed that users in the Retrospective conditions spent more time making statements which had high value for designers than in the Concurrent condition. The value of verbalizations generated by the Retrospective conditions were not impacted by the 24 hour delay. The results were interpreted within context of differences in workload and in terms of the trade-off between increased value gained by using the retrospective paradigm versus increased cost of additional time to conduct the usability test.
Considerations in the Application of Complexity Theory - Based Measures of Individual Performance to Team and Organizational Tasks
Authors: Swezey Robert W.
Published: July 2017

The development of techniques for measuring complex task performance continues to be a problem area both in government and industrial contexts. This problem becomes even more critical as emphasis moves from individual, to group and/or team performance. This paper suggests a variety of measurement techniques that have been applied to the assessment of individual complex performance, and comments on the use of these (and similar) techniques with respect to the measurement of team performance. The measures are derived from the study of “Complexity Theory” (cf. Streufert and Swezey, 1986), and include consideration of both strategic and general planning activity, as well as the diversity of action required in complex team performance situations.
Measuring the Performance of Armor Platoons in the Simnet Environment
Authors: Meliza Larry L.
Published: July 2017

The Unit Performance Assessment System (UPAS) was developed to support collective performance measurement in the simulation networking (SIMNET) environment. The UPAS collects network data and integrates these data with data on unit plans, terrain features, and communications to provide a more complete picture of performance than is possible with network data alone. This paper illustrates how UPAS data displays can be used to assess the performance of units in accordance with standards from the U.S. Army Mission Training Plan document for tank platoons.
Male and Female Ministers: Comparing Roman Catholic and Methodist Deacons on Personality Structure, Religious Beliefs, and Leadership Styles
Authors: Ferrari Joseph R.
Published: July 2017

Christian deacons (50 Roman Catholic; 50 Methodist) self-reported their personality, religiosity, and leadership attributes, plus social desirability tendencies. There were no significant correlates between social desirability and any of these self-reported variables. Results also found no significant differences across Christian denominations on personality dimensions, religious and spirituality beliefs, or leadership styles. Also, there were no significant differences in self-reported personality, religiosity, or leadership among Catholic male deacons with Methodist female deacons only ( n = 43). Taken together, in the present exploratory study across denomination and gender, Christian deacons view themselves similarly in personality, religiosity, and overall leadership characteristics.
The Feagaiga and Faife’au ‘Kids’ (FKs): An Examination of the Experiences of Parsonage Children of the Samoan Congregational Denomination in New Zealand
Authors: Muaiava Sadat Petelo
Published: July 2017

This article examines the experiences of faife’au ‘kids’ (clergy children) of the Samoan Congregational Christian Church denomination in New Zealand. The paper investigates the effects the indigenous concept of feagaiga (covenant) has on faife’au kids (FKs) parsonage experiences. Additionally, the Eurocentric concept of ‘tagata’ese’ (stranger) is also investigated. As part of a master’s research study, Talanoa sessions were conducted with eight FKs of the Congregational denomination in New Zealand. Participants were mainly from the Wellington and Auckland regions.
Spirituality, Happiness, and Psychological Well-being in 13- to 15-year olds: A Cross-country Longitudinal RCT Study
Authors: Pandya Samta P.
Published: July 2017

Based on a study of 5339 adolescents from 60 schools across 15 countries, this paper reports on the effect of spirituality on their happiness and psychological well-being. A customized spiritual program was administered and post-treatment outcome variable scores of the experimental group were higher. Adolescents from relatively affluent nations, boys, Christians, and those who self-practiced scored higher post-test. This makes a case for nominating spirituality as an important developmental variable for 13- to 15-year olds.
Sandbox deployment model for services in modeling and simulation as a service
Authors: Martinez-Salio Jose-Ramon
Published: July 2017

Modeling and simulation as a service (MSaaS) is based on the idea of simulation services deployed in any host device under demand. These services can be anything from a small plug-in to a full-scale system. The users and devices requesting the simulation can be placed anywhere. The whole MSaaS concept is based on modeling and simulation services that comply with simulation standards, are compliant with a certain level of security (multilevel security), and can interoperate and interact with other services or with the host device, in a seamless way.

This article centers on the election of the deployment model of the services, already finished, inside the MSaaS model. That is, choosing the best way in which the services will be made available for the final user in a systemic and institutionalized way. The selection of the proper development model is one of the most critical activities in MSaaS that can determine the final success of the whole initiative.

Starting from a finished model, the election of the best deployment model is discussed by considering how to control and guarantee the services in terms of quality of the software, security, and quality of the features.
Greater trochanteric pain syndrome
Authors: Kidanu Debora , Rowbotham Emma , Grainger Andrew J , Robinson Philip , Bolton William S
Published: July 2017

Greater trochanteric pain syndrome (GTPS) is a common problem that is both debilitating and challenging to manage. In the past, the terms GTPS and greater trochanteric bursitis were used interchangeably, however, inflammation is not always a feature, and in fact, overuse or injury of the gluteal muscles may be the predominant feature. GTPS is now understood to involve multiple pathologies that affect the intra-articular or peri-articular spaces of the hip. Early detection and management of GTPS by GPs can improve patients’ quality of life. Currently, the use of corticosteroid injection therapy and imaging in the management of GTPS may be suboptimal. The aim of this article is to review the current management of GTPS, evidence for the efficacy and duration of action of corticosteroid injection therapy and the role of imaging techniques in the diagnosis and management of GTPS, including the ability to identify pathology and predict treatment response.
Lichen planus
Authors: Heath Laura , Matin Rubeta
Published: July 2017

Lichen planus is a chronic, T-cell-mediated, inflammatory disease of the skin and mucous membranes. Its classic presentation is as violaceous, flat-topped macules and papules, which favour the extremities and flexor creases. When considering the diagnosis of lichen planus, take a thorough drug history to determine whether there is an underlying drug cause before diagnosing ‘idiopathic’ lichen planus. Mucosal surfaces and nails should also be examined in all patients, as the disease commonly also affects these sites. This article explores the clinical presentation, investigations and management of this condition from a primary care perspective.
Childhood cancer in general practice: Is it really that rare?
Authors: Kelly Jennifer
Published: July 2017

Childhood cancer is something most GPs think to be rare, yet it is the biggest medical cause of death in children aged between 1 and 14 years. Its incidence is increasing, with just under 4000 children and young people diagnosed with cancer every year in the UK (11 a day). It is important for GPs to know the signs and symptoms suggestive of childhood cancers, in order to help early diagnosis. This, in turn, can save lives and reduce disability in survivors. The number of children surviving cancer is increasing, with over 35 000 survivors now thought to be living in the UK and in need of particular expertise and care. This article aims to provide GPs with the tools and knowledge to diagnose childhood cancer, and a framework to support children with cancer and their families long-term in the community.
Hypertension
Authors: Carslaw Helen , Cosh Ayla
Published: July 2017

Hypertension is an independent risk factor for cardiovascular disease. The prevalence of hypertension in England is about 30%. The World Health Organization estimates that hypertension is responsible for ‘4.5% of current global disease burden’. Hypertension is asymptomatic in the majority of patients, making diagnosis and management more challenging. However, the associated mortality and morbidity from stroke and myocardial infarction is significant. Once blood pressure (BP) is over 115/70 mmHg, the risk of myocardial infarction or stroke doubles with each 20/10 mmHg increase in BP. The majority of hypertensive patients (90%) will have primary hypertension with no known cause. The term ‘essential hypertension’ has been used to describe primary hypertension, based on the assumption that an elevated BP was required to maintain adequate organ perfusion. A minority of hypertensive patients will have ‘secondary hypertension’ with an underlying pathological cause, such as chronic kidney disease or Conn’s syndrome.
Acute gallbladder disease
Authors: James Magnus
Published: July 2017

A century ago, William Mayo M.D. declared that there was no such thing as an innocent gallstone. We now understand that this is not true and that most gallstones are asymptomatic. Gallbladder disease is very common worldwide and this article aims to outline the incidence, aetiology, presentation and management of gallbladder disease. Complications can be life-threatening and require urgent referral. Adjustments to lifestyle may help prevent the development of gallbladder disease.
The British Journal of Infection Control: Feedback required
Authors: Millward Sue
Published: July 2017

The British Journal of Infection Control was launched almost three years ago as a quarterly publication. Now we need your help to shape the future of the journal.
Personal Perspective
Authors: Cummings Judith
Published: July 2017

For most medical record administrators I suspect the answer to this question would be “No”, and initially that was my answer. Yet, while investigating the purchase of an in-house CAR (computer assisted retrieval) system consisting of a typical “microfilming equipment package” (camera, computer and retrieval terminal), I was asked if I had considered a microfilming bureau as an alternative. This article explains the bureau service and how it has, even after the first four months, proven efficient, accurate and cost-effective.
Implementation of a Bar Code System at RIPAS Hospital in Negara Brunei Darussalam
Authors: Aspar Sablee , Coote Anna
Published: July 2017

In this paper the authors describe the implementation of a bar code system in a 500 bed hospital to locate records and to identify patients. The clerical procedures are described and explained and an outline of the hardware and software used is provided. (AMRJ, 1991, 21(3), 85–87).
The Use of Australian Health Care Services by Overseas Visitors: Some Data-Related Problems for Policy Makers
Authors: Barraclough Simon , McBain Carol
Published: July 2017

Very little is known about the usage of Australian health care services by overseas visitors. This is despite the fact that may visitors are entitled to treatment under Medicare due to the Federal government's policy of encouraging reciprocal health care agreements with a number of countries and the increased promotion of health care as an export commodity. It is therefore difficult to develop an overall picture of both the current level of use of Australian health care services by foreigners or to estimate projections of future demand. The absence of such data also means that it is not possible to be sure of the consequences of policies such as the easing of restrictions on medical visas and the promotion by the Australian government of a network of bilateral reciprocal health care agreements. In this article, federal government policy on the access of non-citizen visitors to Australian health care services is examined, various categories of visitors eligible for treatment under the Medicare scheme identified, and current methods of collecting data on visitors using Australian health services critically examined.
The Prevalence and Cost of Documentation and Coding Errors
Authors: Donoghue Mary
Published: July 2017

A large retrospective recoding study of 4000 records was conducted in a group comprising three large Sydney teaching hospitals. The aim of the study was to identify the specific errors and problems relating to medical record documentation and coding. This paper describes in detail the sampling, methodology and analysis of results. The study revealed an error rate of 47% (all diagnoses and procedures were included) and a change in DRG assignment of 9.25%. Inconsistent/unclear documentation accounted for the greatest percentage of the errors. In 63.3% of the cases the change in DRG assignment following correction of errors was favourable financially for the hospitals. The conclusion drawn is that ensuring consistency in coding practices and policies is one of the major issues facing the medical record profession.
HIMAA Workforce Survey 1991/1992
Authors: Mitchell Jennifer , Allen Rosemary
Published: July 2017

In 1991, and again in 1992, the Health Information Management Association of Australia (HIMAA), formerly Medical Record Association of Australia (MRAA), distributed a Workforce Survey to all members to collect information about the demographic, professional and employment characteristics of HIMAA members. There was a response rate 66.8% in 1991 and 40% in 1992, which rise to 80.9% in 1991 and 51.7% in 1992 for responses from full members. The collection will continue on an annual basis, providing a cumulative database and the opportunity for trend analysis.
Femoroacetabular Impingement in Athletes, Part II
Authors: Byrd J. W. Thomas
Published: July 2017

Context:

Femoroacetabular impingement (FAI) is a common cause of hip pathology and secondary dysfunction among athletes. Much information has been gained regarding the cause and pathomechanics of this disorder. Now, efforts are focusing on treatment to restore the joint and reduce the secondary damage that causes painful dysfunction.

Evidence Acquisition:

This article reviews the scientific literature in reference to treatment of FAI in athletes.

Results:

Several studies reported reasonably successful outcomes in the arthroscopic management of FAI in athletes, and 1 study reported on open surgical correction of this disorder. Few major complications have been described.

Conclusions:

When the diagnosis is given early, some athletes may benefit from a rehabilitation strategy that includes training modifications to protect the at-risk hip. When indicated, arthroscopic surgery can address the joint damage and correct the underlying impingement. Although the joint may not be normal, successful results with return to sports can often be expected.
Contextualizing Women’s Agency in Marital Negotiations
Authors: Sahu Biswamitra , Jeffery Patricia , N Nakkeeran
Published: July 2017

We use 36 in-depth interviews, with 18 Muslim and 18 Hindu women in Karnataka, India, to explore the relationships between women’s educational attainments and women’s exercise of agency in spousal selection and the timing of marriage. We have outlined three kinds of agency, namely, convinced, resistance, and complicit, and the contexts in which they were deployed by our participants during their marriage negotiations. Our examination of the role of education across this spectrum of agential capacities during marriage negotiations suggests that the linkages between education and agency are not straightforward. Rather, the normative context, and how parents and daughters interact with it when fixing marriages, makes the use of agency by the woman and by their parents much more complicated than standard narratives that claim that “modern” education for girls will inevitably enable women to play decisive roles in realizing their personal preferences. Our data lead us to challenge this framework and we argue that the link between education and agency is not always positive and linear, as it widely thought to be.
Understanding the Relationship Between Different Types of Instructional Humor and Student Learning
Authors: Machlev Moshe , Karlin Nancy J.
Published: July 2017

The purpose of this study was to examine the frequency of use of different types of humor in the classroom for a possible relationship with perceived and actual learning. This relationship was examined using quantitative methods. Participants answered questions about their perceived and actual learning and the type of humor to which they were exposed (examining the frequency of such exposure). Student’s final grade in the course served as the measure of actual learning. The study consisted of 195 undergraduate students ranging in age from 18 to 25. A factor analysis identified two distinct types of humor (relevant/appropriate and non-relevant) used in the classroom with relevant/appropriate humor predicting perceived learning. No relationship was found between the different types of humor and actual learning. There was also no difference in the interaction between different types of humor with gender.
The Survival Wheel
Authors: Nicholson Richard E.
Published: July 2017

The following is suggested lecture material using the Survival Wheel (Figure 1) as an introduction to a CPR course. A pointer should be used to indicate the various subjects on the Survival Wheel as they are discussed. This material may be expanded for presentation to in-plant groups, community groups, etc.
A Descriptive Evaluation of a Self-Care Medication Program in Industry
Authors: Ondrejka Dennis
Published: July 2017

A Self-Care Medication Program was developed in an industrial plant in an effort to decrease the nursing workload from non-occupational related visits. Minimal health education was provided by having self-help books available, but the reading of this material was not mandatory prior to an employee utilizing the program.

Data were collected over a 33-month period and then evaluated using incident rates which allows for a comparison from one year to another. The incident rate (I.R.) for a specific type of visit was the number of visits (Incidence=I) for each 100 employees in a one-year time period, divided by the total number of hours worked.

[Formula: see text]

The Self-Care Medication Program had one complicated outcome in 23,250 visits. The self-care visits were inversely related to non-occupational visits and as the self-care visits increased, there was a reduction in the non-occupational visits by 65%. For each self-care visit there was a 16.5-minute savings. A self-care visit averaged 0.6 minutes while the one-to-one contact with the nurse and waiting time totaled 17.1 minutes. The average length of time for the one-to-one visit with the nurse totaled 10 minutes. This industrial setting, with only 2200 employees had an annualized savings of 2321 lost production time hours with an additional savings of 1406 nurse treatment hours.

The Self-Care Medication Program appears to be a safe, cost avoidance manpower saver that has the capability of reducing healthcare provider headcount or freeing up the time for other purposes. It supports those theories which espouse that people can provide for themselves and do it safely when treating minor symptomatic health problems such as colds, stomach upset, headache and sore throats. It appears to be a viable alternative healthcare method capable of saving significant amounts of money in terms of time saved.
Occupational Health in Spain: The Worker's Perspective
Authors: Barber-Madden Rosemary , Glanz Karen
Published: July 2017

This paper was written partially on the basis of an occupational health clinical study in Spain conducted by the authors in September 1982. The information discussed in this paper was obtained through site visits to factories and their medical services departments, to hospitals contracted by the social security system, and to a university school of nursing. In addition, we had the opportunity to observe contruction and agricultural workers. Our observations during the visit were limited to sites in central and southern Spain.

A review of the literature provided background information on the Spanish labor force, work and living conditions of Spanish workers, political events influencing industrial relations and economic development, and some case examples of epidemiological studies in occupational health.
Video Display Terminals: The Relationship between Ergonomic Design, Health Complaints and Operator Performance
Authors: Dainoff Marvin J.
Published: July 2017

An experimental simulation of a VDT entry task was conducted during five three-hour test sessions in which subjects worked under ergonomic conditions alternating between good and poor features as defined by adjustments of working and seating surfaces, lighting, and glare. Performance measures were taken during each session and a battery of psychophysical/physiological measures and subjective complaints were taken before and after each work session. Preliminary results indicated a 24.5% improvement in performance as well as a decrease in musculoskeletal complaints attributed to good ergonomic design characteristics.
Wellness Programs in San Antonio
Authors: McGill Clo , Hubbard Michal , Shoffner Therese
Published: July 2017

The rapid increase in employee health insurance costs has stimulated interest in wellness programs in workplaces. A survey was conducted in San Antonio, Texas, to determine the number and nature of existing wellness programs and the characteristics of firms which do and do not offer such programs. Seventy-one of 325 questionnaires mailed were returned. Results showed the 24 (34%) firms with wellness programs have larger numbers of employees and are engaged in service-producing or finance-related work, while the 47 (66%) firms without wellness programs have fewer employees and performed manufacturing or trade types of work. Wellness program activities included stress management, nutrition/weight control, physical fitness, health risk appraisal and exercise classes. The occupational health nurse was the most frequently cited source of health promotion information in firms with and without wellness programs. Recommendations include firms' use of community resources (voluntary health-related organizations and official health department) to develop wellness programs and increased emphasis on occupational health nursing in nursing education programs.
Office Workers and Video Display Terminals: Physical, Psychological and Ergonomic Factors
Authors: Travers Patricia Hyland , Stanton Babette-Ann
Published: July 2017

The purpose of the pilot study was to examine the psychological and physical symptoms reported by video display terminal (VDT) and non-VDT users in relation to intensity and duration of VDT exposure, ergonomic characteristics of the work station, workers' perceptions of the working environments, medical conditions, job satisfaction, and mood states. Thirty VDT users and 16 non-VDT users were selected from four departments of a major radiopharmaceutical company for participation in the cross-sectional study. Self-administered questionnaires were utilized to obtain information on symptoms, medical conditions, job satisfaction, mood states, and the working environments. Objective measurements were obtained to provide information on the various ergonomic components of the work station. The study corroborated findings reported in previous studies, whereby eye-related symptoms were associated with VDT usage. A higher percentage of symptoms were reported among VDT users even when they had more control over their work stations. These workers expressed higher levels of job satisfaction, and lower levels of tension, fatigue, confusion, anger, and depression than non-VDT users. Most importantly, a trend in symptomatology was identified, whereby symptoms appeared to increase as duration of VDT exposure increased.
The Silent Epidemic: Asbestosis and Related Diseases
Authors: Cassingham Barbee
Published: July 2017

As a nation, we are at the peak of the problems of those people exposed to asbestos. Cancer of the lung and mesothelioma are the primary diseases to occur as 20- to 30-year outcomes of asbestos exposure. The number of people exposed is not an easy figure to come by, Estimates vary from 2–5 million. It is estimated that 20%–50% of the exposed population will develop lung cancer. Nurses' responsibility lies in encouragement of smoking cessation and case finding, particularly for those not known to be an “asbestos worker.” There are new cancer prevention studies beginning which involve the administration of beta-carotene and retinol, separately or in combination, which may prove to arrest the development of these cancers.
Crohn's Disease — More Than a Chronic Illness
Authors: Messner Roberta , Gardner Sylvia , Lewis Susan
Published: July 2017

Crohn's disease is a chronic, inflammatory bowel disease which may occur in single or multiple areas of the entire GI tract from the mouth to the anus. This multifaceted disorder is manifested by various unpredictable health disturbances, affecting its victims' physical and psychosocial well-being.

Individuals with Crohn's disease present a multitude of nursing challenges as they often lack the positive effects of proper nutrition, physical activity, emotional expression, interpersonal relationships, and family life. Nurses are the primary care providers who can comprehensively address the varied and complex health care needs of individuals with Crohn's disease. The core theme is the belief that it is essential for these individuals to maintain a sense of control in the midst of an altered lifestyle.

Occupational health nurses can assist employees with Crohn's disease to develop a variety of physical and psychosocial strategies to cope with the unpleasant, even repugnant, aspects of a disease for which there is no known cure. The promotion of optimal health, based on the nursing process, is the objective toward which the unique efforts of nursing are directed.
The Rising Tides of Africa and China
Authors: Johnson Sterling , Paik Won K. , Larsen Chris G.
Published: July 2017

Since the mid 1980s, Chinese security analysts have debated China's role in the changing international system. Sharp increases in Chinese military spending indicate that China plans to reshape the international economic and military balance of power. Much of China's economic growth is the product of its investment in Africa. Some are concerned that Beijing's more recent relations with Africa are part of its strategy to become the new global hegemony. A primary question is: Which choice will China make? We analyze three perspectives on Beijing's role in African Affairs. The first view holds that China is fulfilling a long-term strategic commitment to Africa that is driven by Chinese economic interests, a commitment to transmit and transfer its own development assistance, and a desire to build effective cooperative partnerships among developing nation-states. The second view is that Chinese policy is to quickly exploit Africa's natural resources, without, like their Western economic counterparts, paying much consideration to local developmental, environmental concerns or human rights issues. The third view emphasizes China's African policy as part of a long-term strategy to displace the Western orientation of the continent by forging partnerships with African elites under the rubric of solidarity.