bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Intravenous Amiodarone: Pharmacology, Pharmacokinetics, and Clinical use
Authors: Chow Moses Ss , Monsanto Homero A , Plante Michèle 
Published: July 2017

Objective To review the clinical pharmacology, pharmacokinetics, and clinical efficacy and safety of intravenous amiodarone. Data Identification Articles were identified through a computer search of the English-language literature using MEDLINE (KR Information OnDisc) and the search term amiodarone. Additional articles were identified through examination of the bibliographies of the articles initially retrieved. Study Selection Relevant or representative animal studies, clinical trials, and case reports were selected for evaluation. Particular emphasis was placed on studies pertaining to the use of intravenous amiodarone in treatment-refractory ventricular fibrillation (VF) and hemodynamically unstable ventricular tachycardia (VT). Data Extraction The literature was assessed for adequate description of patients, study methodologies (e.g., study design, number of patients), and outcomes. Data Synthesis Amiodarone is an unusual class III antiarrhythmic that produces each of the four main types of antiarrhythmic action in addition to other effects, such as vasodilatory, selective antithyroid, and other activities that may be therapeutically relevant. Amiodarone pharmacokinetics demonstrate extensive interpatient variability and are characterized by wide tissue distribution (steady-state volume of distribution 40–84 L/kg), slow total body clearance (90–158 mL/h/kg), long terminal elimination half-life (20–47 d), and extensive hepatic metabolism. The onset of maximal antiarrhythmic effect is a function of both amiodarone dosage and time. The high plasma concentrations achieved with intravenous dosing do not fully replicate the electrophysiologic effects observed following long-term oral administration, particularly with respect to class III activity. Available data suggest that intravenous amiodarone is associated with an efficacy rate of 50% or more in treatment-refractory VT/VF, and has a relatively rapid (2–24 h) onset of action. The drug is relatively well tolerated, but close hemodynamic, electrocardiographic, and hepatic function monitoring are required. The value of using amiodarone serum concentrations to guide therapy remains uncertain. Conclusions Intravenous amiodarone is an effective, relatively safe antiarrhythmic for the treatment of recurrent, hemodynamically unstable VT/VF refractory to other drug therapy in the acute care setting.
Review of Effects of Alcohol and other Licit Drugs on Driving-Related Performance
Authors: Howat Peter A. , Mortimer Rudolf G. 
Published: July 2017

A review is presented of the effects of alcohol and licit drugs on performance related to driving. About 20% of persons of driving age use some licit drug, while a much greater percentage drink alcohol. Alcohol is used in combination with another licit drug by about 10% of persons of driving age. Alcohol is associated with about 50% of fatal traffic accidents, 30% of injury accidents and 10% of non-injury accidents. Other licit drugs, such as diazepam, are involved in about 20% of non-fatal accidents. Alcohol combined with other licit drugs, such as diazepam, is involved in about 10% of injury accidents. The effects of alcohol on driving-related skills is relatively well-documented, but tests on the effects of other licit drugs present variable findings. There is some research which indicates additive or synergistic effects when alcohol is combined with other drugs. Research to date on the effects of licit drugs alone, and in combination with alcohol, has many limitations. There have been comparatively few studies to test decision-making and perceptual-motor skills, such as used in driving or those involving actual driving tasks. However, studies indicate that when combined with alcohol, some licit drugs lead to a deterioration in driving-related performance, but a need exists for further research involving more complex driving-related tests and actual driving situations.
Repeal and Modification of Mandatory Motorcycle Helmet Legislation
Authors: Lynn Cheryl W. 
Published: July 2017

In 1975, Congress relieved the Secretary of Transportation of the power to impose sanctions upon states for not having a law requiring the use of helmets by motorcyclists. Shortly afterward, some of the states having such laws began repealing or modifying them. This paper reviews the available literature on the subject of mandatory motorcycle helmet legislation, and presents the results of a survey of states that have repealed their laws. From the information available, it was determined that the use of motorcycle helmets reduces the incidence of serious and fatal head injury among motorcyclists without interfering with their ability to operate their vehicles safely. Additionally, it was determined that the mandatory motorcycle helmet laws are constitutional and that they have the support of both the general public and motorcyclists in Virginia.
Simulation of Highway Accidents
Authors: Parsons H. McIlvaine 
Published: July 2017

Based on a new motivational model of driving and/or pedestrian behavior, a technique has been developed for simulating highway accidents to include both the favorable consequences of completing a trip without an accident and the unfavorable consequences (including injury and pain) of having one. Thereby trip-making, accident-avoidance behavior, and risk-taking behavior can be brought into the laboratory for experimental examination of variables that might make accidents less likely. Appropriate simulation of vehicular accidents can bring them into the laboratory for experimental investigation of variables that could be manipulated on the highway to reduce accident frequency. Such simulation should include both making a trip and having an accident, including simulation of the accident's unfortunate effects on a driver (or pedestrian). Before I describe how these have been simulated in a laboratory environment, let us consider the premises on which the simulation is based.
Mopeds and Moped Legislation
Authors: Stoke Charles B. 
Published: July 2017

The basic issue concerning mopeds is whether they should be considered as being bicyles—and, basically, be free of regulation, or as motorcycles—and thus be subject to all regulations applicable to motor vehicles. In an effort to resolve this issue, European accident data, Virginia crash data, and the laws of the several states were reviewed. In terms of crash, injury, and fatality data, mopeds are more like motorcycles than bicycles. The laws of the various states lack a uniform approach in dealing with mopeds as a form of transportation. There is little agreement on the specific areas in which there is a need for regulation and how comprehensive this regulation should be. From the review made for this study, it was recommended that a separate category of vehicles be established for mopeds, as they are neither bicycles or motorcycles. It was further recommended that the vehicles be registered, that their operators be licensed, that maximum allowable speed and horsepower be 30 mph and 1.5 bhp, and that liability insurance be made available for purchase by moped owners.
Assessment of Three CRT Stereoptic Display Concepts
Authors: Shields Nicholas , Kirkpatrick Mark , Malone Thomas B. 
Published: July 2017

Three classes of stereoptic displays along with performance data for each type of display are discussed. The first system is a single camera, split field system requiring a polarized display and viewing glasses. The second concept is a dual camera, full field sensor system with a polarized display requiring high speed shuttered viewers to gain stereopsis. The third system is a dual sensor, full field display projected through two independent display loops onto a Fresnel lens which requires no viewing aids to be worn by the observer. Performance on laboratory tasks is discussed as well as potential applications for each concept.
Towards a Rest Allocation Scheme for Sequential Static Muscle Exertions
Authors: Freivalds Andris , Lee Myun W. , Chaffin Don B. 
Published: July 2017

Static muscle contractions when prolonged or frequently repeated result in discomfort, tremor, and coordination problems. Surface electrode EMG measurements have been used to establish a method for objectively assessing the functional state of a muscle during both sustained and frequently repeated static contractions. This paper presents the development of a Markov model of motor unit behavior during such muscle contractions. Validation studies are described using surface electrode EMG's as the primary response measure. The results indicate a simple stochastic model is reasonable to describe motor unit behavior in sequential static exertions. The output of the resulting model is used to predict rest allowances for such exertions.
The Effects of Driving Experience on Objective Measures of Driving Performance
Authors: Attwood Dennis A. 
Published: July 2017

The experiment described herein was conducted to develop a method of predicting driver ability based on objective measures of driving performance. Fifteen subjects drove an instrumented vehicle in live traffic on two-lane and multi-lane road sections in and around the Toronto area. Eight of the subject drivers had at least five years driving experience and seven of them had less than two thousand miles driving experience. On selected portions of the road course, subjects were instructed to maintain certain speeds or lanes. During these periods raw data were collected on vehicle velocity, lane position, steering wheel position, and accelerator pedal position. Using off-line computer programs the data were transformed into a number of descriptive statistics which were then analyzed using univariate and multivariate statistical techniques. Results indicated that even though univariate analyses were generally unsuccessful in differentiating between the groups of experienced and inexperienced drivers, successful discrimination was achieved with combinations of variables. Results suggest that it could be possible to employ on-line monitoring devices to determine whether a driver is capable of a minimum level of driving performance. Implications for the use of such a device in driver licensing and education are discussed.
Motorcycle Headlighting: Experimental and Computer Simulation Comparisons of Nighttime Visibility Distances Obtained with Various Headlamp Beams
Authors: Mortimer Rudolf G. , Satrun Eugene A. 
Published: July 2017

The distances at which a target could be identified by five motorcyclists using various headlamp beams, at night, were measured. The target was positioned either at the right or at the left of the lane. A typical Japanese symmetrical low beam, a European asymmetrical low beam, a U.S. asymmetrical low beam and two high beams were used in the test. The results were compared with predictions of the identification distances made by a computer simulation program. There were significant differences in mean target identification distances due to the beams and target positions. The simulation program closely predicted the low beam visibility distances, but overestimated those obtained with the high beams.
Anthropometry and Strength Characteristics of Low Coal Miners with Respect to Sex and Age
Authors: Morrissey S.J. , Burford C.L. , Caddel K. , Ayoub M.M. 
Published: July 2017

A battery of general anthropometric measures and selected isometric strength measures have been made on a sample of male and female low coal miners in the United States (low coal refers to coal mines in which the coal seam and, thus, tunnel heights are less than 48 inches). In comparison to selected military and civilian anthropometric surveys, both the male and female low coal miners showed significantly greater body circumferences on similar measures. Analysis of the isometric strength data showed both the male and female low coal miners to have significantly lower back strengths than a reference industrial population. Male miners had significantly greater standing leg strengths than the reference population. These differences can be attributed to the occupational and postural demands present in low coal mining.
Please Remain Seated: Seat Designs to Help Retain Passengers during Emergency Stops
Authors: Jacobs H. , Sussman D. , Abernethy C. , Plank G. , Stoklosa J. , Hanking J.R. 
Published: July 2017

A series of experiments were conducted to identify the factors that could aid passengers in remaining seated during an emergency deceleration of an automated transit system. Sixty subjects, representative of three anthropometric levels, underwent various levels of deceleration in an instrumented vehicle controlled by an automated braking system. The independent variables examined were seat orientation and tilt, seat contour and covering, footrests and armrests, and rate of change of deceleration (jerk). The primary dependent variables were the deceleration levels at which subjects moved from sensors that were imbedded in the experimental seat. Movies were taken and subject comfort ratings were also obtained. The major results indicated that forward-facing subjects sustained higher deceleration levels without being dislodged than subjects sitting at small orientation angles of 15° and 30°. A foot-rest contributed to greater retention of forward-facing subjects as did a seat tilt of 12° back. The maximum deceleration level for retention of 84 percent of the forward-facing passengers sitting on a seat tilted back 12° and using a footrest was 0.36 g. Jerk was found not to be a factor in dislodging subjects during the onset of the emergency stop. It was, however, a factor in the perception of comfort. Subjects reported being more uncomfortable at higher jerk levels. Providing a warning to the passengers of an impending stop may aid them in sustaining higher deceleration levels.
Stress Research: Review and Reappraisal
Authors: Salvendy Gavriel , Sharit Joe 
Published: July 2017

The pervasive nature of stress is an all too familiar phenomenon. That undesirable levels of stress can affect our productivity and the quality of our work as well as our general health and well-being has been thoroughly established. These critical effects however that stress has on our working and leisure life for both blue and white-collar workers and its significant contribution to the development of coronary heart disease makes it essential for industrial engineers to understand this phenomenon, with the objective that consideratons of stress-management be given during the design and maintenance of the work environment. This paper discusses the phenomenon of stress, reviews methodologies for measuring stress, discusses some sources of occupational stress, and presents some strategies for its management.
Procedures for Human Engineering Evaluation of Nuclear Power Plant Control Rooms
Authors: Mailory Kenneth M. , Baker Clifford C. , West Robin K. 
Published: July 2017

Few human engineering standards or criteria for the design of nuclear power plant control rooms existed prior to the accident at Three Mile Island — Unit 2. For the most part control room design was dictated by electrical criteria, costs, and, most importantly, by precedent evolved from fossil fuel plant experience. Since the TMI-2 accident, the Nuclear Regulatory Commission has undertaken an ambitious program to develop control room design and operational guidelines to be used by utilities in evaluating the human engineering fitness of control rooms and in identifying human engineering problems requiring backfit. The following paper reviews the method used to develop control room guidelines, the process suggested to the utilities for performing control room evaluations, and sources for and the content of guidelines. As reported in the paper, evaluation guidelines evolved from a basic set of military standards and checklists through a series of on-site control room reviews. The methods used in these reviews involve surveys, checklists, and videotaped walk-throughs of emergency procedures. The final product is a Guidebook containing: (a) procedures for scheduling, planning, administration, and staffing of human engineering reviews; (b) the evaluation procedures to be used, including guidelines, human engineering data, references, and methods; (c) a trade-off process for sorting out problems needing immediate vs. more remote attention; and (d) suggestions for backfits for the human engineering problems most widespread in the industry.
Human Factor Approaches for the Enhancement of Nuclear Control Rooms
Authors: Pine Steven M. 
Published: July 2017

The accident at Three Mile Island (TMI) has underscored the need for human factors review and analysis of Nuclear Control Rooms. Virtually every study of the TMI debacle has come to the conclusion that one of the major contributors of the accident was poor human engineering. In recognition of this fact, the nuclear industry, through its research institutes, has initiated a series of research programs designed to provide individual utilities with guidelines on how to apply human factors principles and criteria to improve the safety and performance of their nuclear facilities. The present paper reports on one of the major studies being undertaken by the Electric Power Research Institute (EPRI) in the area. The objective of this research project is to identify and prioritize the existing Human Engineering Discrepancies (HEDs) in nuclear control rooms and to develop retrofits for correcting these HEDs that can be implemented during normal plant operation or during planned outages. Data was collected during one week visits to five power plants. Structured interviews, checklists, task analyses, surveys (noise, light, etc.) and procedural walk-throughs/talk-throughs were employed to assess the design and layout of the control rooms. In depth analyses of these data led to the identification of numerous HEDs. A prioritization scheme was developed to determine the relative seriousness of these HEDs and to rank alternative retrofit solutions in terms of cost and feasibility. The results revealed fairly wide variance in the extent to which control rooms violate human factors principles. The most frequent areas in which violations were found are labeling, alarm/display systems, functional grouping, design conventions, and anthropometric limits. Numerous HEDs along with alternative retrofits are shown and discussed. Emphasis is given to cost and engineering consideration in selecting appropriate backfits.
Training Effectiveness Evaluation of Device 2F117: OFT for CH-46 Helicopter
Authors: Voss Brendan X. , Mcguire Bernard J. , Theisen Charles J. , Malone Thomas B. 
Published: July 2017

This paper summarizes the project activities accomplished during a twelve (12) month Training Effectiveness Evaluation of Device 2F117, the Operational Flight Trainer for the CH-46 Helicopter. The application of the operational flight trainer to squadron training was analyzed in consideration of instructional system requirements. The intent was to assess OFT effectiveness with minimal interference with established training procedures. A survey of pilots to assess the performance characteristics of the OFT and instructional support materials; an OFT utilization survey; the development of criterion based evaluation procedures; and the results of the evaluation are reported. The paper concludes with discussion of the application of OFTs to helicopter training systems; the development and implementation of criterion referenced performance measurement techniques; and issues related to conducting TEEs in a military training setting.
Male and Female Responses to Stoopwalking Tasks
Authors: Morrissey S. J. , Ayoub M. M. , George C. E. , Ramsey J. D. 
Published: July 2017

This study was performed to evaluate the changes in physiological responses to task performance in trained male and female subjects while stoopwalking in increasingly bent postures. Following a 10-day training program, 5 male and 5 female subjects stoopwalked at heights corresponding to 100, 90, 80, and 70 percent of each subjects normal upright stature at speeds of 1.5, 2.0, 2.5, 3.0, and 3.5 miles per hour. Physiological variables were equilibrium heart rate, ventilation volume, weight adjusted oxygen uptake, and the percentage of work capacity required for task performance. A MANOVA analysis of the dependent variables showed there to be a significant sex difference in the composite response to task performance. Univariate ANOVA and discrimate analyses performed on the dependent variables showed that this difference was due to females experiencing significantly greater heart rates than the males, and greater, but not significantly so, percentages of work capacity to perform the same task loadings as the males.
Use of Structured Training for the Handling of Abnormal and Emergency Operating Conditions
Authors: Collins Brett , Krupp Kris 
Published: July 2017

Training in the mining industry received considerable attention since the Federal Mine Safety and Health Act of 1977 mandating thorough health and safety training. The response to a large extent has been one in which individual facilities developed their own training “programs” rather than sharing in the development of appropriate programs or using another's proven materials. With the basic achievement of health and safety training requirements, the industry has turned its attention to training to improve job performance; here again, independent and relatively informal approaches have been developed. Woodward Associates, Inc., San Diego, has developed, under contract to the U.S. Bureau of Mines, structured equipment operator training programs which teach how to (1) operate the machine and (2) perform the task. The WAI Six-Element approach provides the structure to guide the learning process to (1) ensure exposure to information, (2) promote knowledge and skill acquisition, (3) aid transfer of knowledge and skills to new situations, and (4) assess knowledge and skill acquisition and application. Because of the potential severity of accidents in the mining (and construction) industries, particular attention has been directed to helping future operators to cope with not only normal but also with the abnormal (machine malfunction) and emergency (machine failure) conditions which tend to result in accidents. The Six-Element approach has taken this concern and addressed it through (1) classroom instruction in the cues and procedures for handling abnormal and emergency conditions, and (2) structured on-machine training which employs a truck as task trainer and an OBSAC (On-Board Simulator of Abnormal Conditions) which induces apparent malfunctions, and actual system degrades to allow trainees to experience abnormal and emergency situations under safe conditions and under an instructor's watchful eye. This paper discusses the purpose, benefit, and challenges of introducing and using structured operator training in the mining industry. An evaluation of the experience related to the Haulage Truck Training Program will be discussed. Applications related to training operators of other mobile surface mining machines in normal and abnormal operating conditions will also be discussed.