MedWorm.com provides a medical RSS filtering service. Over 6000 RSS medical sources are combined and output via different filters. This feed contains the latest items from the 'Applied Ergonomics' source. Thu, 09 Feb 2012 08:40:37 +0100 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5617008&cid=s_34393_48_f&fid=34393&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov%2Fentrez%2Fquery.fcgi%3Ftmpl%3DNoSidebarfile%26db%3DPubMed%26cmd%3DRetrieve%26list_uids%3D22260984%26dopt%3DAbstract Authors: Papakostopoulos V, Marmaras N Abstract The proliferation of new displays in modern vehicles sets the challenge to revisit the design of the conventional display units, toward more simplified appearance. The present study aims to evaluate the usefulness of the information provided to the drivers by the conventional vehicle display units, in order to trace directions that would lead to a simplification of the future display panels. Based on the concept of operative images, two working hypotheses were formulated: (i) the experienced drivers have developed an operative image-reference (OI-R) for the display panel of their own vehicle(s), reflecting the relative importance they attribute to the information emitted by the various displays of the panel, and (ii) the experienced d... Applied Ergonomics journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5617008 Tue, 17 Jan 2012 05:00:00 +0100 5617008 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5617010&cid=s_34393_48_f&fid=34393&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov%2Fentrez%2Fquery.fcgi%3Ftmpl%3DNoSidebarfile%26db%3DPubMed%26cmd%3DRetrieve%26list_uids%3D22245635%26dopt%3DAbstract Authors: Fischer SL, Brenneman EC, Wells RP, Dickerson CR Abstract This research investigated if proportional relationships between psychophysically acceptable and maximum voluntary hand forces are dependent on the underlying biomechanical factor (i.e. whole body balance or joint strength) that limited the maximum voluntary hand force. Eighteen healthy males completed two unilateral maximal exertions followed by a 30 min psychophysical load-adjust protocol in each of nine pre-defined standing scenarios. Center of pressure (whole body balance) and joint moments (joint strength) were calculated to evaluate whether balance or joint strength was most likely limiting maximum voluntary hand force. The ratio of the psychophysically acceptable force to the maximal force was significantly ... Applied Ergonomics journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5617010 Fri, 13 Jan 2012 05:00:00 +0100 5617010 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5617009&cid=s_34393_48_f&fid=34393&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov%2Fentrez%2Fquery.fcgi%3Ftmpl%3DNoSidebarfile%26db%3DPubMed%26cmd%3DRetrieve%26list_uids%3D22245636%26dopt%3DAbstract Authors: Velani N, Wilson O, Halkon BJ, Harland AR Abstract Despite the possibilities offered by new approaches in design and advances in materials and manufacturing methods, few items of Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) used in sport have seen significant change for many decades. A major reason for this is the tradition and conservative attitudes associated with many sports, although the absence of appropriate tools and techniques to assist the design and development process has also played a large part. The aim of this study was to develop the first stage of a method of identifying specific regions of the human anatomy that are at the greatest risk of sustaining injury during participation in sports in which the player is subjected to multiple ballistic impacts. It is proposed... Applied Ergonomics journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5617009 Fri, 13 Jan 2012 05:00:00 +0100 5617009 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5593248&cid=s_34393_48_f&fid=34393&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov%2Fentrez%2Fquery.fcgi%3Ftmpl%3DNoSidebarfile%26db%3DPubMed%26cmd%3DRetrieve%26list_uids%3D22239972%26dopt%3DAbstract This study examined the effect of multiple monitors on performance during a laparoscopic surgical training task (peg transfer among instruments). Twenty-four novice subjects were exposed to different monitor conditions including a default position, a biomechanically compatible position, and a position collocated with the operating surface as well as the combination of the latter two. Subjective rankings and cognitive workload were also assessed. Results revealed a significant effect of monitor position on task time when compared to subjects' baseline training task time using the default monitor setup. Collocating the monitor with the operating surface was shown to be superior in terms of task time. There were no significant differences among monitor positions in terms of perceived workload... Applied Ergonomics journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5593248 Tue, 10 Jan 2012 05:00:00 +0100 5593248 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5593249&cid=s_34393_48_f&fid=34393&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov%2Fentrez%2Fquery.fcgi%3Ftmpl%3DNoSidebarfile%26db%3DPubMed%26cmd%3DRetrieve%26list_uids%3D22233692%26dopt%3DAbstract Authors: Niskanen T, Naumanen P, Hirvonen ML Abstract The European Council Directive 89/391/EC of 12 June 1989 is concerned with the introduction of measures to encourage improvements in the occupational safety and health. For example, it deals with risk assessment and preventive measures. The Finnish legislation enacts the risk assessment and prevention measures in a similar way as the EU Directive 89/391/EC. The aim of this study was to examine: 1) the implementation of risk assessment process as a part of OSH management, and 2) the effectiveness of the OSH legislation concerned with risk assessment. The quantitative method involved an online questionnaire. The respondents were employers (N = 1478), workers (N = 1416) and occupational care (OHC) professionals' units (N = 46... Applied Ergonomics journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5593249 Mon, 09 Jan 2012 05:00:00 +0100 5593249 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5593250&cid=s_34393_48_f&fid=34393&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov%2Fentrez%2Fquery.fcgi%3Ftmpl%3DNoSidebarfile%26db%3DPubMed%26cmd%3DRetrieve%26list_uids%3D22226545%26dopt%3DAbstract Authors: Kim S, Nussbaum MA, Jia B Abstract Team manual material handling is a common practice in residential construction where prefabricated building components (e.g., wall panels) are increasingly used. As part of a larger effort to enable proactive control of ergonomic exposures among workers handling panels, this study explored the effects of additional workers on injury risks during team-based panel erection tasks, specifically by quantifying how injury risks are affected by increasing the number of workers (by one, above the nominal or most common number). Twenty-four participants completed panel erection tasks with and without an additional worker under different panel mass and size conditions. Four risk assessment methods were employed that emphasized the low back. Though ... Applied Ergonomics journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5593250 Wed, 04 Jan 2012 05:00:00 +0100 5593250 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5573207&cid=s_34393_48_f&fid=34393&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov%2Fentrez%2Fquery.fcgi%3Ftmpl%3DNoSidebarfile%26db%3DPubMed%26cmd%3DRetrieve%26list_uids%3D22208356%26dopt%3DAbstract Authors: Akesson I, Balogh I, Hansson GA Abstract Physical workload was recorded by electromyography, inclinometry and goniometry for twelve female dental hygienists during authentic work. Their work was, in relation to other types of work, characterised by pronounced head flexion (90th percentile 46°), high loads on the forearm extensor muscles (90th percentile 23% and 18% of maximal EMG (MVE), for the right and left sides, respectively), average loads on trapezius muscles (90th percentile 15% and 14% MVE), average arm elevation (99th percentile 83° and 72°) and average wrist flexion and velocities (50th percentiles 17° of extension and 7.3°/s, for the right side). Manual scaling and machinery (use of ultrasonic scaling and hand-pieces) showed higher loads on the trapezius mu... Applied Ergonomics journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5573207 Wed, 28 Dec 2011 05:00:00 +0100 5573207 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5557328&cid=s_34393_48_f&fid=34393&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov%2Fentrez%2Fquery.fcgi%3Ftmpl%3DNoSidebarfile%26db%3DPubMed%26cmd%3DRetrieve%26list_uids%3D22204895%26dopt%3DAbstract This study represents a first step in assessing whether combining a cognitive science paradigm and a driving simulator environment can quickly assess how different warning signals alert and orient drivers. PMID: 22204895 [PubMed - as supplied by publisher] (Source: Applied Ergonomics) Applied Ergonomics journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5557328 Mon, 26 Dec 2011 05:00:00 +0100 5557328 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5543495&cid=s_34393_48_f&fid=34393&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov%2Fentrez%2Fquery.fcgi%3Ftmpl%3DNoSidebarfile%26db%3DPubMed%26cmd%3DRetrieve%26list_uids%3D22192788%26dopt%3DAbstract Authors: Montague E, Xu J Abstract The aim of this study was to understand how passive users perceive the trustworthiness of active users and technologies under varying technological conditions. An experimental study was designed to vary the functioning of technologies that active users interacted with, while passive users observed these interactions. Active and passive user ratings of technology and partner were collected. Exploratory data analysis suggests that passive users developed perceptions of technologies based on the functioning of the technology and how the active user interacted with the technology. Findings from this research have implications for the design of technologies in environments where active and passive users interact with technologies in different ways. Fut... Applied Ergonomics journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5543495 Tue, 20 Dec 2011 05:00:00 +0100 5543495 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5523132&cid=s_34393_48_f&fid=34393&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov%2Fentrez%2Fquery.fcgi%3Ftmpl%3DNoSidebarfile%26db%3DPubMed%26cmd%3DRetrieve%26list_uids%3D22177598%26dopt%3DAbstract The objective of the current study was to test the effects of socio-emotional stressors on lay rescuers' ventilation rate in a simulated resuscitation setting using a manikin model. A within-subjects experiment with randomized order of conditions tested lay rescuers' ventilation rate on an intubated manikin during exposure to socio-emotional stressors and during a control condition where no external stressors were present. Ventilation rates and subjective workload were significantly higher during exposure to socio-emotional stressors than during the control condition. All but one of the nine participants ventilated at a higher ventilation rate in the experimental condition. All nine participants rated the subjective workload to be higher during exposure to socio-emotional stressors. Hence,... Applied Ergonomics journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5523132 Wed, 14 Dec 2011 05:00:00 +0100 5523132 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5523134&cid=s_34393_48_f&fid=34393&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov%2Fentrez%2Fquery.fcgi%3Ftmpl%3DNoSidebarfile%26db%3DPubMed%26cmd%3DRetrieve%26list_uids%3D22169705%26dopt%3DAbstract Authors: Yang JF, Cho CY Abstract The primary purpose of this study was to compare the posture and muscle control patterns between male and female computer users with musculoskeletal symptoms. Forty computer users were recruited. Each subject performed a preferred speed typing, a fast speed typing, and a repetitive mouse task. The independent variables were gender, typing speed, and time. There were significant differences between genders for head and neck flexion angles when they were performing the preferred speed typing task. Significant differences between genders were also found for upper extremity angles when they were performing the repetitive mouse task. Male computer users had a smaller root mean square of the right extensor digitorium than females. In general, postural di... Applied Ergonomics journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5523134 Mon, 12 Dec 2011 05:00:00 +0100 5523134 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5523133&cid=s_34393_48_f&fid=34393&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov%2Fentrez%2Fquery.fcgi%3Ftmpl%3DNoSidebarfile%26db%3DPubMed%26cmd%3DRetrieve%26list_uids%3D22169706%26dopt%3DAbstract Authors: Nascimento A, Falzon P Abstract The purpose of this article is to understand the way in which medical physicists take into account treatment effectiveness and safety when selecting a treatment plan, with respect to the medical prescription and the technical, human and organizational resources available. Data-gathering was based on the allo-confrontation method: 14 medical physicists from five different treatment centers commented on real treatment plans that had been drawn up by their colleagues. Results show that medical physicists have two means at their disposal to control treatment effectiveness and safety: risk avoidance and risk reduction. Risk avoidance is achieved when conceiving the treatment solution. Risk reduction occurs after the design of the plan and consist... Applied Ergonomics journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5523133 Mon, 12 Dec 2011 05:00:00 +0100 5523133 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5523135&cid=s_34393_48_f&fid=34393&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov%2Fentrez%2Fquery.fcgi%3Ftmpl%3DNoSidebarfile%26db%3DPubMed%26cmd%3DRetrieve%26list_uids%3D22153204%26dopt%3DAbstract Authors: Jakob M, Liebers F, Behrendt S Abstract The incidence of work-related musculoskeletal disorders among milking parlor operatives has increased while milking parlors were getting bigger. At the same time parlor design was improved regarding the physical load as well as body postures. In contrast to former studies on workload in parlor milking this project was designed and performed as an experimental study in a laboratory setting including 6 female subjects. Motion analysis and psycho-physiological analysis (EMG, heart rate, subjective perceived strain index) were carried out. Intra-individual comparisons were made for the different settings using general linear models for repeated measurements. The effects of working height and weight of milking unit during parlor milking w... Applied Ergonomics journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5523135 Mon, 05 Dec 2011 05:00:00 +0100 5523135 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5523136&cid=s_34393_48_f&fid=34393&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov%2Fentrez%2Fquery.fcgi%3Ftmpl%3DNoSidebarfile%26db%3DPubMed%26cmd%3DRetrieve%26list_uids%3D22142989%26dopt%3DAbstract Authors: Singh SP, Singh S, Singh P Abstract A hand operated maize dehusker-sheller to be operated by farm women was designed and developed to dehusk and shell the maize cobs using ergonomics (anthropometric, strength and physiological workload). Axial-flow maize dehusker-sheller with 540 mm cylinder length and 380 mm diameter required 3.03 N-m torque on cylinder shaft while operating at 5.6 m s(-1) peripheral speed and 100 kg h(-1) feed rate by feeding cob one by one. This torque was 30% of isometric torque obtained at front position of handle (greatest distance) with lowest crank length. The heart rate of subject while operating the maize dehusker-sheller at 54 rpm (5.6 m s(-1)) was 142 beats min(-1). The output of 60 kg h(-1) was obtained at the feed rate of 80 kgÂ... Applied Ergonomics journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5523136 Sat, 03 Dec 2011 05:00:00 +0100 5523136 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5523139&cid=s_34393_48_f&fid=34393&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov%2Fentrez%2Fquery.fcgi%3Ftmpl%3DNoSidebarfile%26db%3DPubMed%26cmd%3DRetrieve%26list_uids%3D22133974%26dopt%3DAbstract This study evaluated the muscular activity of cleaners while mopping staircases using two different mop handles and found that an easily adjustable mop handle can decrease a cleaner's physical load. The results also show that the implementation and contextualization of the mop are of great importance for how a mop is used. A more holistic approach is needed to improve the benefits of good tools and techniques in cleaning work. More research is needed on how workplace organization can be improved to support the implementation of strategies to increase the health of professional cleaners. PMID: 22133974 [PubMed - as supplied by publisher] (Source: Applied Ergonomics) Applied Ergonomics journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5523139 Tue, 29 Nov 2011 05:00:00 +0100 5523139 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5523138&cid=s_34393_48_f&fid=34393&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov%2Fentrez%2Fquery.fcgi%3Ftmpl%3DNoSidebarfile%26db%3DPubMed%26cmd%3DRetrieve%26list_uids%3D22133975%26dopt%3DAbstract Authors: Ferguson SA, Kennaway DJ, Baker A, Lamond N, Dawson D Abstract Cumulative sleep deprivation is often associated with work patterns involving night shift or early morning shifts. Adaptation of the circadian system to the shift pattern is reported to promote improved duration and quality of sleep and a concurrent improvement in performance. The current study followed twenty-nine operators at a live-in mining operation working to a seven-day, seven-night shift pattern who collected saliva samples for melatonin measurement, recorded sleep using activity monitors and diaries, and underwent performance testing (psychomotor vigilance task) for one complete roster cycle. The time of onset of melatonin secretion changed significantly (P=0.022) across the week of both Day and Night ... Applied Ergonomics journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5523138 Tue, 29 Nov 2011 05:00:00 +0100 5523138 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5523137&cid=s_34393_48_f&fid=34393&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov%2Fentrez%2Fquery.fcgi%3Ftmpl%3DNoSidebarfile%26db%3DPubMed%26cmd%3DRetrieve%26list_uids%3D22133976%26dopt%3DAbstract Authors: Tenneti R, Johnson D, Goldenberg L, Parker RA, Huppert FA Abstract A key issue in the field of inclusive design is the ability to provide designers with an understanding of people's range of capabilities. Since it is not feasible to assess product interactions with a large sample, this paper assesses a range of proxy measures of design-relevant capabilities. It describes a study that was conducted to identify which measures provide the best prediction of people's abilities to use a range of products. A detailed investigation with 100 respondents aged 50-80 years was undertaken to examine how they manage typical household products. Predictor variables included self-report and performance measures across a variety of capabilities (vision, hearing, dexterity and cognitive fun... Applied Ergonomics journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5523137 Tue, 29 Nov 2011 05:00:00 +0100 5523137 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5523141&cid=s_34393_48_f&fid=34393&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov%2Fentrez%2Fquery.fcgi%3Ftmpl%3DNoSidebarfile%26db%3DPubMed%26cmd%3DRetrieve%26list_uids%3D22123533%26dopt%3DAbstract Authors: Lucas D, Lincoln J, Somervell P, Teske T Abstract The purpose of this study was to determine which type of commercially available PFD resulted in the highest satisfaction among workers in the fishing industry. Fishing industry workers on four types of vessels wore and evaluated six different PFDs during their fishing seasons. Linear regression was used to test the differences in mean satisfaction scores, adjusting for clustered observations on vessels. The data were stratified by vessel type to determine the differences in PFD satisfaction within each vessel type. PFD D had the highest mean satisfaction score, but satisfaction with particular PFDs varied depending on the vessel type. Although the common objections by workers to wearing PFDs are that they are bulky and unco... Applied Ergonomics journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5523141 Sat, 26 Nov 2011 05:00:00 +0100 5523141 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5523140&cid=s_34393_48_f&fid=34393&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov%2Fentrez%2Fquery.fcgi%3Ftmpl%3DNoSidebarfile%26db%3DPubMed%26cmd%3DRetrieve%26list_uids%3D22123534%26dopt%3DAbstract Authors: Widanarko B, Legg S, Stevenson M, Devereux J, Eng A, 't Mannetje A, Cheng S, Pearce N Abstract Although quite a lot is known about the risk factors for low back symptoms (LBS), less is known about the risk factors for the consequences of LBS. A sample of 3003 men and women randomly selected from the New Zealand Electoral Roll, were interviewed by telephone about self reported physical, psychosocial, organizational, environmental factors and the consequences of LBS (i.e. self-reported reduced activities and absenteeism). The 12-month period prevalence of reduced activities and absenteeism were 18% and 9%, respectively. Lifting (OR 1.79 95% CI 1.16-2.77) increased the risk of reduced activities. Working in awkward/tiring positions (OR 2.11 95% CI 1.20-3.70) and in a cold/dam... Applied Ergonomics journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5523140 Sat, 26 Nov 2011 05:00:00 +0100 5523140 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5523142&cid=s_34393_48_f&fid=34393&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov%2Fentrez%2Fquery.fcgi%3Ftmpl%3DNoSidebarfile%26db%3DPubMed%26cmd%3DRetrieve%26list_uids%3D22118952%26dopt%3DAbstract This study examined the effects of performing scrollable music selection tasks using a portable music player (iPod Touchâ„¢) on simulated driving performance and task-sharing strategies, as evidenced through eye glance behaviour and secondary task performance. A total of 37 drivers (18-48 yrs) completed the PC-based MUARC Driver Distraction Test (DDT) while performing music selection tasks on an iPod Touch. Drivers' eye glance behaviour was examined using faceLAB eye tracking equipment. Results revealed that performing music search tasks while driving increased the amount of time that drivers spent with their eyes off the roadway and decreased their ability to maintain a constant lane position and time headway from a lead vehicle. There was also evidence, however, that drivers attempted t... Applied Ergonomics journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5523142 Thu, 24 Nov 2011 05:00:00 +0100 5523142 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5449856&cid=s_34393_48_f&fid=34393&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov%2Fentrez%2Fquery.fcgi%3Ftmpl%3DNoSidebarfile%26db%3DPubMed%26cmd%3DRetrieve%26list_uids%3D22103964%26dopt%3DAbstract Authors: Liu YC, Jhuang JW Abstract A driving simulator study was conducted to evaluate the effects of five in-vehicle warning information displays upon drivers' emergent response and decision performance. These displays include visual display, auditory displays with and without spatial compatibility, hybrid displays in both visual and auditory format with and without spatial compatibility. Thirty volunteer drivers were recruited to perform various tasks that involved driving, stimulus-response, divided attention and stress rating. Results show that for displays of single-modality, drivers benefited more when coping with visual display of warning information than auditory display with or without spatial compatibility. However, auditory display with spatial compatibility significant... Applied Ergonomics journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5449856 Sat, 19 Nov 2011 05:00:00 +0100 5449856 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5406496&cid=s_34393_48_f&fid=34393&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov%2Fentrez%2Fquery.fcgi%3Ftmpl%3DNoSidebarfile%26db%3DPubMed%26cmd%3DRetrieve%26list_uids%3D22075258%26dopt%3DAbstract Authors: Lin JH, McGorry RW, Chang CC Abstract Hand-handle interface is seldom considered in contemporary upper limb biomechanical analyses of pushing and pulling strength. A laboratory study was designed to examine if handle rotation in the frontal plane (0°-horizontal, 45°, and 90°-vertical), anterior tilt (0°-parallel to the frontal plane, and 15°), and distance between two handles (31 and 48.6cm) affect pushing strength and subjective rating of handle preference. A special testing station was constructed to elicit upper limb push exertions that involved minimal contribution of the torso and legs. Within the station, four load cells were used to measure the horizontal (forward pushing) and vertical components of the pushing forces. Thirty-one participants performed seated b... Applied Ergonomics journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5406496 Tue, 08 Nov 2011 05:00:00 +0100 5406496 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5406497&cid=s_34393_48_f&fid=34393&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov%2Fentrez%2Fquery.fcgi%3Ftmpl%3DNoSidebarfile%26db%3DPubMed%26cmd%3DRetrieve%26list_uids%3D22062871%26dopt%3DAbstract Authors: Clamann M, Zhu B, Beaver L, Taylor K, Kaber D Abstract The rear-facing Infant Car Seat (ICS) is designed to meet federal requirements for transporting children less than 1 year old. Typical use includes transfer in and out of a vehicle, which is shown to be a difficult lift. Despite the frequency of this lift, manufacturers provide little guidance for users. Review of relevant literature suggested an ICS featuring an angled handle, promoting a neutral wrist posture, would increase grip stability and decrease lifting effort. Popular press suggested a foot-in-car stance for the ICS lift would do the same. An experiment was conducted in which wrist deviations from neutral posture were recorded along with lifting muscle activation levels (multiple flexor muscles and biceps bra... Applied Ergonomics journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5406497 Sat, 05 Nov 2011 04:00:00 +0100 5406497 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5370528&cid=s_34393_48_f&fid=34393&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov%2Fentrez%2Fquery.fcgi%3Ftmpl%3DNoSidebarfile%26db%3DPubMed%26cmd%3DRetrieve%26list_uids%3D22036449%26dopt%3DAbstract This study investigates stress-influence factors perceived by military aircrews undergoing centrifuge training, which lowers the incidence of G-induced loss of consciousness (G-LOC) for the crews of high-performance combat aircrafts. We used questionnaires to assess the subjective stress-influence factors of crews undergoing centrifuge training. Professionals in aviation physiology identified attributes measuring the perceived stress induced by centrifuge training, which were segmented into three constructs by factor analysis, theory lecture, centrifuge equipment, and physical fitness. Considerable interpenetration was discernible between these factors and military rank, age, length of service, flight hours accrued, and type of aircraft piloted. Identifying and quantifying the perceived st... Applied Ergonomics journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5370528 Thu, 27 Oct 2011 04:00:00 +0100 5370528 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5370527&cid=s_34393_48_f&fid=34393&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov%2Fentrez%2Fquery.fcgi%3Ftmpl%3DNoSidebarfile%26db%3DPubMed%26cmd%3DRetrieve%26list_uids%3D22036450%26dopt%3DAbstract Authors: Ferguson SA, Marras WS, Gary Allread W, Knapik GG, Splittstoesser RE Abstract Musculoskeletal disorder risk was assessed during automotive assembly processes. The risk associated with current assembly processes was compared to using a cantilever chair intervention. Spine loads and normalized shoulder muscle activity were evaluated during assembly in eight regions of the vehicle. Eight interior cabin regions of the vehicle were classified by reach distance, height from vehicle floor and front to back. The cantilever chair intervention tool was most effective in the far reach regions regardless of the height. In the front far reach regions both spine loads and normalized shoulder muscle activity levels were reduced. In the middle and close reach regions spine loads were redu... Applied Ergonomics journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5370527 Thu, 27 Oct 2011 04:00:00 +0100 5370527 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5370529&cid=s_34393_48_f&fid=34393&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov%2Fentrez%2Fquery.fcgi%3Ftmpl%3DNoSidebarfile%26db%3DPubMed%26cmd%3DRetrieve%26list_uids%3D22030069%26dopt%3DAbstract CONCLUSION: The office ergonomics training alone and coupled with a highly adjustable chair reduced visual symptoms. In replicating results from a public sector worksite at a private sector worksite the external validity of the interventions is strengthened, thus broadening its generalizability. PMID: 22030069 [PubMed - as supplied by publisher] (Source: Applied Ergonomics) Applied Ergonomics journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5370529 Mon, 24 Oct 2011 04:00:00 +0100 5370529 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5370530&cid=s_34393_48_f&fid=34393&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov%2Fentrez%2Fquery.fcgi%3Ftmpl%3DNoSidebarfile%26db%3DPubMed%26cmd%3DRetrieve%26list_uids%3D22019358%26dopt%3DAbstract This study evaluated full-shift exposures of posture and motion of the upper extremity among large-herd parlor milkers using wireless inclinometry. Results suggest large-herd parlor workers may be exposed to high exposure levels (posture, movement velocity, repetition, and inadequate rest) associated with the development of shoulder pathology. Compared to other high-risk occupations involving shoulder-intensive work, parlor workers may have higher exposure levels. These findings warrant the need for continued field-based research with larger sample sizes to facilitate the development of cost-effective intervention strategies. PMID: 22019358 [PubMed - as supplied by publisher] (Source: Applied Ergonomics) Applied Ergonomics journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5370530 Fri, 21 Oct 2011 04:00:00 +0100 5370530 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5370532&cid=s_34393_48_f&fid=34393&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov%2Fentrez%2Fquery.fcgi%3Ftmpl%3DNoSidebarfile%26db%3DPubMed%26cmd%3DRetrieve%26list_uids%3D22018838%26dopt%3DAbstract Authors: Dockrell S, O'Grady E, Bennett K, Mullarkey C, Mc Connell R, Ruddy R, Twomey S, Flannery C Abstract Rapid Upper Limb Assessment (RULA) is a quick observation method of posture analysis. RULA has been used to assess children's computer-related posture, but the reliability of RULA on a paediatric population has not been established. The purpose of this study was to investigate the inter-rater and intra-rater reliability of the use of RULA with children. Video recordings of 24 school children were independently viewed by six trained raters who assessed their postures using RULA, on two separate occasions. RULA demonstrated higher intra-rater reliability than inter-rater reliability although both were moderate to good. RULA was more reliable when used for assessing the older c... Applied Ergonomics journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5370532 Wed, 19 Oct 2011 04:00:00 +0100 5370532 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5370531&cid=s_34393_48_f&fid=34393&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov%2Fentrez%2Fquery.fcgi%3Ftmpl%3DNoSidebarfile%26db%3DPubMed%26cmd%3DRetrieve%26list_uids%3D22018839%26dopt%3DAbstract Authors: Dutta T Abstract Recording posture and movement is important for determining risk of musculoskeletal injury in the workplace, but existing motion capture systems are not suited for field work. Estimates of the 3-D relative positions of four 0.10m cubes from the Kinect were compared to estimates from a Vicon motion capture system to determine whether the hardware sensing components were sensitive enough to be used as a portable 3-D motion capture system for workplace ergonomic assessments. The root-mean-squared errors (SD) were 0.0065m (0.0048m), 0.0109m (0.0059m), 0.0057m (0.0042m) in the x, y and z directions (with x axis to the right, y axis away from the sensor and z axis upwards). These data were collected over a range of 1.0-3.0m from the device covering a field of vi... Applied Ergonomics journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5370531 Wed, 19 Oct 2011 04:00:00 +0100 5370531 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5337117&cid=s_34393_48_f&fid=34393&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov%2Fentrez%2Fquery.fcgi%3Ftmpl%3DNoSidebarfile%26db%3DPubMed%26cmd%3DRetrieve%26list_uids%3D21996460%26dopt%3DAbstract Authors: Rose JA, Bearman C Abstract Task analysis is an important tool that enables designers to consider the human factors implications of a new technology. This paper details a task analysis for the task of driving long-haul freight trains in Australia and describes how this task analysis was used to evaluate a new in-cab information support technology. This paper then explores similarities and differences between this task analysis and one proposed by Roth and Multer (2009). It is argued that these two task analyses can form the basis for many future task analyses so that we can avoid 'reinventing the wheel,' allowing us to focus more on potential interesting differences between operations and geographical locations. PMID: 21996460 [PubMed - as supplied by publisher] (Sourc... Applied Ergonomics journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5337117 Tue, 11 Oct 2011 04:00:00 +0100 5337117 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5337118&cid=s_34393_48_f&fid=34393&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov%2Fentrez%2Fquery.fcgi%3Ftmpl%3DNoSidebarfile%26db%3DPubMed%26cmd%3DRetrieve%26list_uids%3D21992968%26dopt%3DAbstract Authors: Dehais F, Causse M, Vachon F, Tremblay S Abstract The review of literature in sociology and distributed artificial intelligence reveals that the occurrence of conflict is a remarkable precursor to the disruption of multi-agent systems. The study of this concept could be applied to human factors concerns, as man-system conflict appears to provoke perseveration behavior and to degrade attentional abilities with a trend to excessive focus. Once entangled in such conflicts, the human operator will do anything to succeed in his current goal even if it jeopardizes the mission. In order to confirm these findings, an experimental setup, composed of a real unmanned ground vehicle, a ground station is developed. A scenario involving an authority conflict between the participants and... Applied Ergonomics journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5337118 Mon, 10 Oct 2011 04:00:00 +0100 5337118 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5337119&cid=s_34393_48_f&fid=34393&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov%2Fentrez%2Fquery.fcgi%3Ftmpl%3DNoSidebarfile%26db%3DPubMed%26cmd%3DRetrieve%26list_uids%3D21986560%26dopt%3DAbstract Authors: Min SN, Kim JY, Parnianpour M Abstract Work performed on scaffolds carries the risk of falling that disproportionately threatens the safety and health of novice construction workers. Hence, objective measures of the postural stability, cardiovascular stress, and subjective difficulty in maintaining postural balance were evaluated for four expert and four novice construction workers performing a manual task in a standing posture on a scaffold with and without safety handrails at two different elevation heights. Based on a multivariate analysis of variance, the experience, scaffold height, and presence of a handrail were found to significantly affect measures of the postural stability and cardiovascular stress. At a lower level of worker experience, a higher scaffold height,... Applied Ergonomics journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5337119 Sat, 08 Oct 2011 04:00:00 +0100 5337119 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5292613&cid=s_34393_48_f&fid=34393&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov%2Fentrez%2Fquery.fcgi%3Ftmpl%3DNoSidebarfile%26db%3DPubMed%26cmd%3DRetrieve%26list_uids%3D21963250%26dopt%3DAbstract CONCLUSION: Workers who received a highly adjustable chair and office ergonomics training had reduced visual symptoms and the effect was maintained through twelve months post-intervention. The lack of a training-only group effect supports implementing training in conjunction with the highly adjustable chair to reduce visual symptoms. PMID: 21963250 [PubMed - as supplied by publisher] (Source: Applied Ergonomics) Applied Ergonomics journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5292613 Fri, 30 Sep 2011 04:00:00 +0100 5292613 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5292612&cid=s_34393_48_f&fid=34393&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov%2Fentrez%2Fquery.fcgi%3Ftmpl%3DNoSidebarfile%26db%3DPubMed%26cmd%3DRetrieve%26list_uids%3D21963251%26dopt%3DAbstract This study demonstrated that a simple, well-designed sign can effectively encourage energy conservation. PMID: 21963251 [PubMed - as supplied by publisher] (Source: Applied Ergonomics) Applied Ergonomics journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5292612 Fri, 30 Sep 2011 04:00:00 +0100 5292612 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5292614&cid=s_34393_48_f&fid=34393&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov%2Fentrez%2Fquery.fcgi%3Ftmpl%3DNoSidebarfile%26db%3DPubMed%26cmd%3DRetrieve%26list_uids%3D21962327%26dopt%3DAbstract Authors: Ehmen H, Haesner M, Steinke I, Dorn M, Gövercin M, Steinhagen-Thiessen E Abstract In the area of product design and usability, most products are developed for the mass-market by technically oriented designers and developers for use by persons who themselves are also technically adept by today's standards. The demands of older people are commonly not given sufficient consideration within the early developmental process. In the present study, the usability and acceptability of four different devices meant to be worn for the measurement of heart rate or ECG were analyzed on the basis of qualitative subjective user ratings and structured interviews of twelve older participants. The data suggest that there was a relatively high acceptance concerning these belts by older adults... Applied Ergonomics journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5292614 Thu, 29 Sep 2011 04:00:00 +0100 5292614 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5270953&cid=s_34393_48_f&fid=34393&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov%2Fentrez%2Fquery.fcgi%3Ftmpl%3DNoSidebarfile%26db%3DPubMed%26cmd%3DRetrieve%26list_uids%3D21944830%26dopt%3DAbstract Authors: Young KL, Rudin-Brown CM, Lenné MG, Williamson AR Abstract The increasing global distribution of automobiles necessitates that the design of In-vehicle Information Systems (IVIS) is appropriate for the regions to which they are being exported. Differences between regions such as culture, environment and traffic context can influence the needs, usability and acceptance of IVIS. This paper describes two studies aimed at identifying regional differences in IVIS design needs and preferences across drivers from Australia and China to determine the impact of any differences on IVIS design. Using a questionnaire and interaction clinics, the influence of cultural values and driving patterns on drivers' preferences for, and comprehension of, surface- and interaction-level aspects ... Applied Ergonomics journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5270953 Fri, 23 Sep 2011 04:00:00 +0100 5270953 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5270955&cid=s_34393_48_f&fid=34393&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov%2Fentrez%2Fquery.fcgi%3Ftmpl%3DNoSidebarfile%26db%3DPubMed%26cmd%3DRetrieve%26list_uids%3D21944295%26dopt%3DAbstract Authors: Eatough EM, Way JD, Chang CH Abstract It is well established that psychosocial work stressors relate to employees' work-related musculoskeletal disorder (WRMSD) symptoms. Using a model investigating psychological strain as a mediator between work stressors and WRMSD complaints, this study demonstrated that high levels role conflict, low job control, and low safety-specific leadership are associated with increased employee strain. Strain, in turn, was related to higher levels of WRMSD symptoms of the wrist/hand, shoulders, and lower back. Partial mediation of some relationships was also found, suggesting that additional meditational mechanisms for the relationships between stressors and musculoskeletal symptoms are plausible. This work supports the notion that psychosocial ... Applied Ergonomics journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5270955 Thu, 22 Sep 2011 04:00:00 +0100 5270955 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5270954&cid=s_34393_48_f&fid=34393&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov%2Fentrez%2Fquery.fcgi%3Ftmpl%3DNoSidebarfile%26db%3DPubMed%26cmd%3DRetrieve%26list_uids%3D21944482%26dopt%3DAbstract Authors: Franz M, Durt A, Zenk R, Desmet PM Abstract This paper describes the design of a neck-/headrest to increase car comfort. Two studies were undertaken to create a new comfortable headrest with neck support. In experiment one, neck- and headrest data were gathered using 35 test subjects. The pressure distribution, stiffness of the foam material and position of the head and neck support were determined. In experiment two a full adjustable final headrest with adjustable neck support was constructed and tested with 12 subjects using a new adjustable headrest under virtual reality driving conditions. Experiment two showed that the headrest with the new/adjustable neck support was favoured by the majority of the subjects. 83% were satisfied with the stiffness of the material. 92% ... Applied Ergonomics journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5270954 Thu, 22 Sep 2011 04:00:00 +0100 5270954 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5237633&cid=s_34393_48_f&fid=34393&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov%2Fentrez%2Fquery.fcgi%3Ftmpl%3DNoSidebarfile%26db%3DPubMed%26cmd%3DRetrieve%26list_uids%3D21924702%26dopt%3DAbstract Authors: Rydström A, Broström R, Bengtsson P Abstract A driving simulator study was conducted to investigate the effects of carrying out a variety of tasks using two different types of contemporary in-car multifunctional interfaces: a touch screen interface and an interface manoeuvred by a rotary control. Participants drove on a curved rural road while performing tasks such as list scrolling, radio tuning, alphanumeric input and continuous adjustments. The results indicate that, in terms of task completion time and the number of glances made to the display, the optimal interface is dependent on the task being performed. The touch screen interface was better for alphanumeric input tasks and the interface manoeuvred by a rotary control was better for continuous adjustments and list... Applied Ergonomics journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5237633 Thu, 15 Sep 2011 04:00:00 +0100 5237633 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5224258&cid=s_34393_48_f&fid=34393&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov%2Fentrez%2Fquery.fcgi%3Ftmpl%3DNoSidebarfile%26db%3DPubMed%26cmd%3DRetrieve%26list_uids%3D21917238%26dopt%3DAbstract In this study we compare the efficacy of three driver's performance indicators based on lateral deviation in detecting significant on-road performance degradations while interacting with a secondary task: the High Frequency Component of steering wheel (HFC), and two indicators described in ISO/DIS 26022 (2007): the Normative and the Adapted Lane Change Test (LCT). Sixteen participants were asked to perform a simulated lane-change task while interacting, when required, with a visual search task with two levels of difficulty. According to predictions, results showed that the Adapted LCT indicator, taking into consideration individual practices in performing the LCT, succeeded in discriminating between single and dual task conditions. Furthermore, this indicator was also able to detect whethe... Applied Ergonomics journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5224258 Mon, 12 Sep 2011 04:00:00 +0100 5224258 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5224259&cid=s_34393_48_f&fid=34393&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov%2Fentrez%2Fquery.fcgi%3Ftmpl%3DNoSidebarfile%26db%3DPubMed%26cmd%3DRetrieve%26list_uids%3D21907970%26dopt%3DAbstract Authors: Guimarães LB, Anzanello MJ, Renner JS Abstract This paper presents a method for implementing multifunctional work teams in a footwear company that followed the Taylor/Ford system for decades. The suggested framework first applies a Learning Curve (LC) modeling to assess whether rotation between tasks of different complexities affects workers' learning rate and performance. Next, the Macroergonomic Work Analysis (MA) method (Guimarães, 1999, 2009) introduces multifunctional principles in work teams towards workers' training and resources improvement. When applied to a pilot line consisting of 100 workers, the intervention-reduced work related accidents in 80%, absenteeism in 45.65%, and eliminated work related musculoskeletal disorders (WMSD), medical consultations, and t... Applied Ergonomics journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5224259 Fri, 09 Sep 2011 04:00:00 +0100 5224259 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5224260&cid=s_34393_48_f&fid=34393&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov%2Fentrez%2Fquery.fcgi%3Ftmpl%3DNoSidebarfile%26db%3DPubMed%26cmd%3DRetrieve%26list_uids%3D21906723%26dopt%3DAbstract CONCLUSION: Consuming a bolus of fluid, pre-shift provided no benefit over non-consumption as both groups had consumed equivalent ad libitum volumes of fluid, 2.5 h into the shift. No benefits of bolus consumption were observed in firefighter activity, heart rate response or core temperature response across the shift in the mild weather conditions experienced. Ad libitum drinking was adequate to facilitate rehydration in firefighters upon completion of their emergency firefighting work shift. PMID: 21906723 [PubMed - as supplied by publisher] (Source: Applied Ergonomics) Applied Ergonomics journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5224260 Wed, 07 Sep 2011 04:00:00 +0100 5224260 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5212020&cid=s_34393_48_f&fid=34393&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov%2Fentrez%2Fquery.fcgi%3Ftmpl%3DNoSidebarfile%26db%3DPubMed%26cmd%3DRetrieve%26list_uids%3D21893312%26dopt%3DAbstract This study shows that the optimal ergonomic simulation setting leads to better task performance. In addition, no significant differences of task performance, for Groups 1 and 2 using the same test setting were found. However, better performance was observed for Group 1. It can be concluded that the optimal and non-optimal training setting have different learning effects on trainees' skill learning. PMID: 21893312 [PubMed - as supplied by publisher] (Source: Applied Ergonomics) Applied Ergonomics journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5212020 Sat, 03 Sep 2011 04:00:00 +0100 5212020 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5182873&cid=s_34393_48_f&fid=34393&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov%2Fentrez%2Fquery.fcgi%3Ftmpl%3DNoSidebarfile%26db%3DPubMed%26cmd%3DRetrieve%26list_uids%3D21880299%26dopt%3DAbstract Authors: Browne A, O'Sullivan L Abstract The purpose of this study was to develop and test a physical ergonomics assessment approach for medical device handles. The method assesses wrist posture and force of exertion simultaneously by task element. Electrogoniometers and EMG sensors were connected through a data acquisition module for synchronization with video recordings of trials. Task analysis of video recordings were performed offline with Observer XT software. Average posture and force data across several repetitions of individual task elements were calculated and presented in a format suitable for informing product designers of specific issues during a test trial. A handle comfort questionnaire is proposed to survey subjective responses. The evaluation approach was applied to... Applied Ergonomics journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5182873 Sun, 28 Aug 2011 23:00:00 +0100 5182873 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5182874&cid=s_34393_48_f&fid=34393&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov%2Fentrez%2Fquery.fcgi%3Ftmpl%3DNoSidebarfile%26db%3DPubMed%26cmd%3DRetrieve%26list_uids%3D21875699%26dopt%3DAbstract This study investigated the differences in peak external hand forces and external moments generated at the L5/S1 joint of the low back due to maneuvering loaded floor-based and overhead-mounted patient lifting devices using one and two caregivers. Hand forces and external moments at the L5/S1 joint were estimated from ground reaction forces and motion capture data. Caregivers gave ratings of perceived exertion as well as their opinions regarding overhead vs. floor lifts. Use of overhead lifts resulted in significantly lower back loads than floor lifts. Two caregivers working together with a floor lift did not reduce loads on the primary caregiver compared to the single-caregiver case. In contrast, two-caregiver operation of an overhead lift did result in reduced loads compared to the singl... Applied Ergonomics journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5182874 Fri, 26 Aug 2011 23:00:00 +0100 5182874 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5182876&cid=s_34393_48_f&fid=34393&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov%2Fentrez%2Fquery.fcgi%3Ftmpl%3DNoSidebarfile%26db%3DPubMed%26cmd%3DRetrieve%26list_uids%3D21871604%26dopt%3DAbstract Authors: Cordovil R, Vieira F, Barreiros J Abstract Thirty-three children between 3 and 6 years of age were asked to climb four different types of safety barriers. Morphological and functional variables of the children, which were expected to influence climbing or passing through skills, were collected. The influence of those variables on children's success rate and time to cross was tested. No barrier offered a total restraining efficacy. The horizontal bars barrier was crossed by 97% of the children. In the group of children that succeeded in crossing the four barriers, mean time to cross the most difficult barrier was 15 s. Age was the best predictor for success in crossing most barriers but morphology and strength were important predictors of time to cross. The influence of an... Applied Ergonomics journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5182876 Tue, 23 Aug 2011 23:00:00 +0100 5182876 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5182875&cid=s_34393_48_f&fid=34393&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov%2Fentrez%2Fquery.fcgi%3Ftmpl%3DNoSidebarfile%26db%3DPubMed%26cmd%3DRetrieve%26list_uids%3D21871605%26dopt%3DAbstract Authors: Larsson AF Abstract Automation, in terms of systems such as adaptive/active cruise control (ACC) or collision warning systems, is increasingly becoming a part of everyday driving. These systems are not perfect though, and the driver has to be prepared to reclaim control in situations very similar to those the system easily handles by itself. This paper uses a questionnaire answered by 130 ACC users to discuss future research needs in the area of driver assistance systems. Results show that the longer drivers use their systems, the more aware of its limitations they become. Moreover, the drivers report that ACC forces them to take control intermittently. According to theory, this might actually be better than a more perfect system, as it provides preparation for unexpected ... Applied Ergonomics journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5182875 Tue, 23 Aug 2011 23:00:00 +0100 5182875 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5146820&cid=s_34393_48_f&fid=34393&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov%2Fentrez%2Fquery.fcgi%3Ftmpl%3DNoSidebarfile%26db%3DPubMed%26cmd%3DRetrieve%26list_uids%3D21851925%26dopt%3DAbstract CONCLUSION: High-quality studies of midwives as well as better-designed prospective studies of nurses and physicians are needed. Results of such studies could inform preventive strategies and reduce the contribution of work-related musculoskeletal disorders to attrition. PMID: 21851925 [PubMed - as supplied by publisher] (Source: Applied Ergonomics) Applied Ergonomics journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5146820 Mon, 15 Aug 2011 23:00:00 +0100 5146820 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5146822&cid=s_34393_48_f&fid=34393&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov%2Fentrez%2Fquery.fcgi%3Ftmpl%3DNoSidebarfile%26db%3DPubMed%26cmd%3DRetrieve%26list_uids%3D21843878%26dopt%3DAbstract Authors: Sheehan RC, Gottschall JS Abstract According to the CDC, falls are the leading cause of injury for all age groups with over half of the falls occurring during slope and stair walking. Consequently, the purpose of this study was to compare and contrast the different factors related to fall risk as they apply to these walking tasks. More specifically, we hypothesized that compared to level walking, slope and stair walking would have greater speed standard deviation, greater ankle dorsiflexion, and earlier peak activity of the tibialis anterior. Twelve healthy, young male participants completed level, slope, and stair trials on a 25-m walkway. Overall, during slope and stair walking, medial-lateral stability was less, anterior-posterior stability was less, and toe clearance w... Applied Ergonomics journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5146822 Fri, 12 Aug 2011 23:00:00 +0100 5146822 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5146821&cid=s_34393_48_f&fid=34393&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov%2Fentrez%2Fquery.fcgi%3Ftmpl%3DNoSidebarfile%26db%3DPubMed%26cmd%3DRetrieve%26list_uids%3D21843879%26dopt%3DAbstract Authors: Le Bris V, Barthe B, Marquié JC, Kerguelen A, Aubert S, Bernadou B Abstract Good shift changeovers contribute to ensuring continuity and reliability in shift work. In situations where production is not maintained 24 h a day, changeovers with meetings (SCM) between the two work teams (written plus oral face-to-face handovers) alternate with changeovers without meetings (SCnM; written handovers only). An ergonomic work analysis on an aircraft assembly line showed that (1) incoming and outgoing operators met during the overlap time allotted by the company, and (2) the content of the exchanges was richer for SCMs than for SCnMs. SCMs enabled the operators to pass on and process more aspects of their work than SCnMs did. SCMs also allowed incoming operators to validate their ... Applied Ergonomics journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5146821 Fri, 12 Aug 2011 23:00:00 +0100 5146821 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5130491&cid=s_34393_48_f&fid=34393&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov%2Fentrez%2Fquery.fcgi%3Ftmpl%3DNoSidebarfile%26db%3DPubMed%26cmd%3DRetrieve%26list_uids%3D21831354%26dopt%3DAbstract Authors: Simpson KM, Munro BJ, Steele JR Recreational hikers carry heavy loads while often walking long distances over uneven terrain. Previous studies have suggested that not only the load mass but also the position of the load may influence load carriage. The purpose of this study was to determine the effect of vertical load position on gait and subjective responses of female recreational hikers. Fifteen experienced female hikers walked for 2 km over a simulated hiking trail carrying 30% BW in three vertical load positions (high, medium and low). Lower limb and trunk kinematic, electromyography (EMG) and ground reaction force (GRF) data were collected together with heart rate (HR), ratings of perceived exertion (RPE) and discomfort measures. Although HR, RPE and discomfort measures ... Applied Ergonomics journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5130491 Sun, 07 Aug 2011 23:00:00 +0100 5130491 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5130492&cid=s_34393_48_f&fid=34393&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov%2Fentrez%2Fquery.fcgi%3Ftmpl%3DNoSidebarfile%26db%3DPubMed%26cmd%3DRetrieve%26list_uids%3D21820102%26dopt%3DAbstract Authors: Darwent D, Roach G, Dawson D The aim of this study was to evaluate the sleep obtained by livestock transport truck drivers while resting in truck sleeper berths during long-haul commercial operations. Operations were carried out in the very remote regions of Australia. The sample comprised of 32 drivers who wore wrist activity monitors and reported bed-times for a two-week period. Drivers had a mean (±standard deviation) age of 35.41 (±9.78) years and had worked as truck drivers for 13.83 (±9.11) years. On average, they obtained 6.07 (±1.18) hours of sleep/24-h period. The majority of sleep occurred at night, but drivers occasionally supplemented their main sleep with a daytime nap. Consistent with operational demands, drivers were most likely to sleep in cabin sleeper ber... Applied Ergonomics journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5130492 Tue, 02 Aug 2011 23:00:00 +0100 5130492 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5130493&cid=s_34393_48_f&fid=34393&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov%2Fentrez%2Fquery.fcgi%3Ftmpl%3DNoSidebarfile%26db%3DPubMed%26cmd%3DRetrieve%26list_uids%3D21813110%26dopt%3DAbstract Authors: Dekker S Complexity is a defining characteristic of healthcare, and ergonomic interventions in clinical practice need to take into account aspects vital for the success or failure of new technology. The introduction of new monitoring technology, for example, creates many ripple effects through clinical relationships and agents' cross-adaptations. This paper uses the signal detection paradigm to account for a case in which multiple clinical decision makers, across power hierarchies and gender gaps, manipulate each others' sensitivities to evidence and decision criteria. These are possible to analyze and predict with an applied ergonomics that is sensitive to the social complexities of the workplace, including power, gender, hierarchy and fuzzy system boundaries. PMID: 21813... Applied Ergonomics journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5130493 Sun, 31 Jul 2011 23:00:00 +0100 5130493 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5130494&cid=s_34393_48_f&fid=34393&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov%2Fentrez%2Fquery.fcgi%3Ftmpl%3DNoSidebarfile%26db%3DPubMed%26cmd%3DRetrieve%26list_uids%3D21803331%26dopt%3DAbstract In this study, more than 10,000 internet trip reports and 153 passenger interviews were used to gather opinions about aspects which need to be improved in order to design a more comfortable aircraft interior. The results show clear relationships between comfort and legroom, hygiene, crew attention and seat/personal space. Passengers rate the newer planes significantly better than older ones, indicating that attention to design for comfort has proven effective. The study also shows that rude flight attendants and bad hygiene reduce the comfort experience drastically and that a high comfort rating is related to higher "fly again" values. PMID: 21803331 [PubMed - as supplied by publisher] (Source: Applied Ergonomics) Applied Ergonomics journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5130494 Thu, 28 Jul 2011 23:00:00 +0100 5130494 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5130496&cid=s_34393_48_f&fid=34393&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov%2Fentrez%2Fquery.fcgi%3Ftmpl%3DNoSidebarfile%26db%3DPubMed%26cmd%3DRetrieve%26list_uids%3D21802069%26dopt%3DAbstract This study (n = 32) investigates the combined effects of acoustic and visual distraction with regard to cognitive performance and well-being. Therefore low level background speech (40 dB(A)) of good or poor intelligibility was combined with either static or dynamic lighting. Experimental testing lasted for approx. 7 h for each participant and was conducted in mock-up offices. No interaction effects of background speech and lighting conditions with regard to cognitive performance were found. However, the results prove that even low level background speech of high intelligibility significantly impairs short-term memory, reasoning ability and well-being. But no effect of background speech on text comprehension and sustained attention was found. Visual distraction due to dynamic lighting c... Applied Ergonomics journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5130496 Wed, 27 Jul 2011 23:00:00 +0100 5130496 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5130495&cid=s_34393_48_f&fid=34393&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov%2Fentrez%2Fquery.fcgi%3Ftmpl%3DNoSidebarfile%26db%3DPubMed%26cmd%3DRetrieve%26list_uids%3D21802652%26dopt%3DAbstract CONCLUSION: Seven fireground tasks, three using a hose and four using handtools were classified as physically demanding by incumbent firefighters. The combination of hose and handtool work indicates that the tanker-based bushfire suppression tactics used by Australian rural firefighters appears to be a hybrid of structural and wildfire firefighting techniques and may require a dedicated physiological analyses before the job demands for these firefighters can be quantified. PMID: 21802652 [PubMed - as supplied by publisher] (Source: Applied Ergonomics) Applied Ergonomics journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5130495 Wed, 27 Jul 2011 23:00:00 +0100 5130495 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5081116&cid=s_34393_48_f&fid=34393&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov%2Fentrez%2Fquery.fcgi%3Ftmpl%3DNoSidebarfile%26db%3DPubMed%26cmd%3DRetrieve%26list_uids%3D21798514%26dopt%3DAbstract Authors: Noro K, Naruse T, Lueder R, Nao-I N, Kozawa M This paper describes the application of an alternative seating concept for surgeons that reflects the research of Zen sitting postures, which require Zazen meditators to maintain fixed postures for long durations. The aim of this alternative approach is to provide sitters with a seat pan with sacral support(1) that provides a more even distribution of seat pressures, induces forward pelvic rotation and improves lumbar, buttock and thigh support. This approach was applied to the development of a chair for microscopic surgery. The experimental chair is a seat pan that closely matches the three-dimensional contours of the user's buttocks. Seat comfort was evaluated by comparing both changes in pelvic tilt and seat pressure distributio... Applied Ergonomics journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5081116 Mon, 25 Jul 2011 23:00:00 +0100 5081116 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5081117&cid=s_34393_48_f&fid=34393&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov%2Fentrez%2Fquery.fcgi%3Ftmpl%3DNoSidebarfile%26db%3DPubMed%26cmd%3DRetrieve%26list_uids%3D21777904%26dopt%3DAbstract Authors: Dianat I, Haslegrave CM, Stedmon AW The present study investigated the effects of wearing typical industrial gloves on hand performance capabilities (muscle activity, wrist posture, touch sensitivity, hand grip and forearm torque strength) and subjective assessments for an extended duration of performing a common assembly task, wire tying with pliers, which requires a combination of manipulation and force exertion. Three commercially available gloves (cotton, nylon and nitrile gloves) were tested and compared with a bare hand condition while participants performed the simulated assembly task for 2 h. The results showed that wearing gloves significantly increased the muscle activity, wrist deviation, and discomfort whilst reducing hand grip strength, forearm torque strength an... Applied Ergonomics journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5081117 Mon, 18 Jul 2011 23:00:00 +0100 5081117 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5081118&cid=s_34393_48_f&fid=34393&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov%2Fentrez%2Fquery.fcgi%3Ftmpl%3DNoSidebarfile%26db%3DPubMed%26cmd%3DRetrieve%26list_uids%3D21774912%26dopt%3DAbstract This study evaluated the use of simple inclines as a portable peripheral for improving head and neck postures during notebook computer use on tables in portable environments such as hotel rooms, cafés, and airport lounges. A 3D motion analysis system measured head, neck and right upper extremity postures of 15 participants as they completed a 10min computer task in six different configurations, all on a fixed height desk: no-incline, 12° incline, 25° incline, no-incline with external mouse, 25° incline with an external mouse, and a commercially available riser with external mouse and keyboard. After completion of the task, subjects rated the configuration for comfort and ease of use and indicated perceived discomfort in several body segments. Compared to the no-incline configuration, u... Applied Ergonomics journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5081118 Sun, 17 Jul 2011 23:00:00 +0100 5081118 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5081119&cid=s_34393_48_f&fid=34393&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov%2Fentrez%2Fquery.fcgi%3Ftmpl%3DNoSidebarfile%26db%3DPubMed%26cmd%3DRetrieve%26list_uids%3D21764031%26dopt%3DAbstract Authors: Gold JE, Driban JB, Thomas N, Chakravarty T, Channell V, Komaroff E Mobile device text messaging and other typing is rapidly increasing worldwide. A checklist was utilized to characterize joint postures and typing styles in individuals appearing to be of college age (n = 859) while typing on their mobile devices in public. Gender differences were also ascertained. Almost universally, observed subjects had a flexed neck (91.0%, n = 782), and a non-neutral typing-side wrist (90.3%, n = 776). A greater proportion of males had protracted shoulders (p < 0.01, χ(2) test), while a greater proportion of females had a typing-side inner elbow angle of <90°, particularly while standing (p = 0.03, χ(2) test). 46.1% of subjects typed with both thumbs (two hands holding t... Applied Ergonomics journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5081119 Thu, 14 Jul 2011 23:00:00 +0100 5081119 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5036732&cid=s_34393_48_f&fid=34393&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov%2Fentrez%2Fquery.fcgi%3Ftmpl%3DNoSidebarfile%26db%3DPubMed%26cmd%3DRetrieve%26list_uids%3D21745653%26dopt%3DAbstract Authors: Zenk R, Franz M, Bubb H, Vink P For car manufacturers, seat comfort is becoming more important in distinguishing themselves from their competitors. Therefore, many studies on participative seat comfort are carried out. In this paper, an objective assessment approach is reported which evaluates the concept of "optimal load distribution", based on the identification of a close relationship between the pressure on the seat and the discomfort felt by the person sitting. An in vivo measurement of the pressure in the spinal disc, which is an indicator of the load in the spine, was performed. For this research, a pressure sensor was implanted with a canula in the middle of the disc intervertebralis of a participant. The local pressure on the disc was established for the participant ... Applied Ergonomics journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5036732 Fri, 08 Jul 2011 23:00:00 +0100 5036732 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5036731&cid=s_34393_48_f&fid=34393&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov%2Fentrez%2Fquery.fcgi%3Ftmpl%3DNoSidebarfile%26db%3DPubMed%26cmd%3DRetrieve%26list_uids%3D21745654%26dopt%3DAbstract Authors: Taieb-Maimon M, Cwikel J, Shapira B, Orenstein I An intervention study was conducted to examine the effectiveness of an innovative self-modeling photo-training method for reducing musculoskeletal risk among office workers using computers. Sixty workers were randomly assigned to either: 1) a control group; 2) an office training group that received personal, ergonomic training and workstation adjustments or 3) a photo-training group that received both office training and an automatic frequent-feedback system that displayed on the computer screen a photo of the worker's current sitting posture together with the correct posture photo taken earlier during office training. Musculoskeletal risk was evaluated using the Rapid Upper Limb Assessment (RULA) method before, during and after... Applied Ergonomics journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5036731 Fri, 08 Jul 2011 23:00:00 +0100 5036731 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5036733&cid=s_34393_48_f&fid=34393&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov%2Fentrez%2Fquery.fcgi%3Ftmpl%3DNoSidebarfile%26db%3DPubMed%26cmd%3DRetrieve%26list_uids%3D21737062%26dopt%3DAbstract Authors: Kamp I Producing higher efficiency cars with less and lighter materials but without compromising safety, comfort and driving pleasure might give a competitive advantage. In this light, at BMW a new light weight car-seat concept was developed based on the human body contour. A possibility to increase the comfort is using a seat which elicits positive tactile experiences. However, limited information is available on seat characteristics and tactile experiences. Therefore, this study describes the contour of three different car-seat designs, including a light weight seat, and the recorded corresponding emotion and tactile experience of 21 persons sitting in the seats. Results show that the new light weight car-seat concept rated well on experienced relaxedness, even with the lack... Applied Ergonomics journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5036733 Mon, 04 Jul 2011 23:00:00 +0100 5036733 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5036736&cid=s_34393_48_f&fid=34393&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov%2Fentrez%2Fquery.fcgi%3Ftmpl%3DNoSidebarfile%26db%3DPubMed%26cmd%3DRetrieve%26list_uids%3D21726852%26dopt%3DAbstract Authors: Hemphälä H, Eklund J Visual requirements are high when sorting mail. The purpose of this visual ergonomics intervention study was to evaluate the visual environment in mail sorting facilities and to explore opportunities for improving the work situation by reducing visual strain, improving the visual work environment and reducing mail sorting time. Twenty-seven postmen/women participated in a pre-intervention study, which included questionnaires on their experiences of light, visual ergonomics, health, and musculoskeletal symptoms. Measurements of lighting conditions and productivity were also performed along with eye examinations of the postmen/women. The results from the pre-intervention study showed that the postmen/women who suffered from eyestrain had a higher prevalen... Applied Ergonomics journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5036736 Fri, 01 Jul 2011 23:00:00 +0100 5036736 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5036735&cid=s_34393_48_f&fid=34393&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov%2Fentrez%2Fquery.fcgi%3Ftmpl%3DNoSidebarfile%26db%3DPubMed%26cmd%3DRetrieve%26list_uids%3D21726853%26dopt%3DAbstract This study investigated the effects of non-obtrusive feedback on continuous lifted hand/finger behaviour, task performance and comfort. In an experiment with 24 participants the effects of two visual and two tactile feedback signals were compared to a no-feedback condition in a computer task. Results from the objective measures showed that all types of feedback were equally effective to reduce lifted hand/finger behaviour (effectiveness) compared to absence of feedback, while task performance was not affected (efficiency). In contrast to objective measures, subjective user experience was significantly different for the four types of feedback signals. Continuous tactile feedback appeared to be the best signal; not only the effectiveness and efficiency were rated reasonable, it also scored b... Applied Ergonomics journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5036735 Fri, 01 Jul 2011 23:00:00 +0100 5036735 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5036734&cid=s_34393_48_f&fid=34393&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov%2Fentrez%2Fquery.fcgi%3Ftmpl%3DNoSidebarfile%26db%3DPubMed%26cmd%3DRetrieve%26list_uids%3D21726854%26dopt%3DAbstract Authors: Gold JE, Driban JB, Yingling VR, Komaroff E Laptop computers may be used in a variety of postures not coupled to the office workstation. Using passive motion analysis, this study examined mean joint angles during a short typing/editing task in college students (n=20), in up to seven positions. Comfort was assessed after task execution through a body map. For three required postures, joint angles in a prone posture were different than those while seated at a couch with feet either on floor or on ottoman. Specifically, the prone posture was characterized by comparatively non-neutral shoulders, elbows and wrists, and pronounced neck extension. Significantly greater intensity and more regions of discomfort were marked for the prone posture than for the seated postures. It is recom... Applied Ergonomics journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5036734 Fri, 01 Jul 2011 23:00:00 +0100 5036734 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5036737&cid=s_34393_48_f&fid=34393&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov%2Fentrez%2Fquery.fcgi%3Ftmpl%3DNoSidebarfile%26db%3DPubMed%26cmd%3DRetrieve%26list_uids%3D21724175%26dopt%3DAbstract Authors: Vink P, Hallbeck S The term comfort is often seen relating to the marketing of products like chairs, cars, clothing, hand tools and even airplane tickets, while in the scientific literature, the term discomfort shows up often, since it is used in research. Few papers explain the concept of a localized comfort experience in relation to product use, although people use these products daily. Therefore, in this special issue, the concept of product comfort is studied further. In this editorial an overview of comfort models has been made, evaluated with the papers from the special issue and a new comfort/discomfort model is proposed to increase our understanding of the factors influencing comfort and discomfort experiences. PMID: 21724175 [PubMed - as supplied by publisher] (So... Applied Ergonomics journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5036737 Thu, 30 Jun 2011 23:00:00 +0100 5036737 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5036738&cid=s_34393_48_f&fid=34393&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov%2Fentrez%2Fquery.fcgi%3Ftmpl%3DNoSidebarfile%26db%3DPubMed%26cmd%3DRetrieve%26list_uids%3D21722876%26dopt%3DAbstract Authors: Kee D, Lee I The purpose of this study is to investigate the relationships between subjective measures of discomfort and objective measures related to the assessment of postural stresses based on literature survey. Objective measures included posture holding time, maximum holding time (MHT), torque at joints, lifting index (LI) and compressive force (CF) at L5/S1. The major relationships identified in this literature survey were the following: 1) postural discomfort linearly increased with increasing holding time, and holding force, 2) whole body discomfort was inversely linearly proportional to the MHT, 3) body-part discomfort was related to objective measures such as torque at the relevant joint, 4) discomfort was strongly linearly related to LIs and CFs, and 5) the discomfo... Applied Ergonomics journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5036738 Tue, 28 Jun 2011 23:00:00 +0100 5036738 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4992248&cid=s_34393_48_f&fid=34393&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov%2Fentrez%2Fquery.fcgi%3Ftmpl%3DNoSidebarfile%26db%3DPubMed%26cmd%3DRetrieve%26list_uids%3D21714955%26dopt%3DAbstract In conclusion, this study gives some evidence to support the applicability of using adults' data in ASHRAE 55 and ISO 9920 standards to assess the thermal insulation values of different children's clothing ensembles, provided that careful selection of the garments, ensembles material and design takes place. PMID: 21714955 [PubMed - as supplied by publisher] (Source: Applied Ergonomics) Applied Ergonomics journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4992248 Mon, 27 Jun 2011 23:00:00 +0100 4992248 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4992247&cid=s_34393_48_f&fid=34393&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov%2Fentrez%2Fquery.fcgi%3Ftmpl%3DNoSidebarfile%26db%3DPubMed%26cmd%3DRetrieve%26list_uids%3D21718963%26dopt%3DAbstract Authors: Groenesteijn L, Ellegast RP, Keller K, Krause F, Berger H, de Looze MP In the present study, we investigated the effect of office tasks on posture and movements in field settings, and the comfort rating for chair characteristics and correlation with type of task. The tasks studied were: computer work, telephoning, desk work and conversation. Postures, movements, chair part inclinations and comfort rating data were collected from 12 subjects. Computer work showed the lowest physical activity, together with upright trunk and head position and low backrest inclination. Conversation shows the highest activity of head legs and low back together with the highest cervical spine extension. In contrast, desk work provoked the most cervical spine flexion and showed the second lowest act... Applied Ergonomics journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4992247 Mon, 27 Jun 2011 23:00:00 +0100 4992247 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4992246&cid=s_34393_48_f&fid=34393&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov%2Fentrez%2Fquery.fcgi%3Ftmpl%3DNoSidebarfile%26db%3DPubMed%26cmd%3DRetrieve%26list_uids%3D21718964%26dopt%3DAbstract Authors: Vaughn McCall W, Boggs N, Letton A Six married couples (12 adults, mean age 34.8 years) were randomized as couples in a cross-over design to sleep on a queen-size conventional mattress for 2 weeks and a specially-designed pressure-relief mattress for 2 weeks. The pressure-relief mattress was designed to reduce the number of contact points exceeding 30 mm Hg. Actigraphic measurements of sleep and self-reports of sleep and daytime symptoms were collected at baseline for 2 weeks on each couple's home mattress and box springs at home, followed by 2 weeks of data collection on each randomized mattress for a total of 6 weeks of data collection. Pressure maps were created for each participant on each sleeping surface. There were no significant differences between the randomized slee... Applied Ergonomics journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4992246 Mon, 27 Jun 2011 23:00:00 +0100 4992246 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4992251&cid=s_34393_48_f&fid=34393&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov%2Fentrez%2Fquery.fcgi%3Ftmpl%3DNoSidebarfile%26db%3DPubMed%26cmd%3DRetrieve%26list_uids%3D21714952%26dopt%3DAbstract CONCLUSIONS: The PHT and FWT may be valid fit for duty tests for Australian rural fire fighters though the clear differences between the tests and some tasks may prompt fire agencies to consider other tests that more accurately simulate bushfire suppression work. PMID: 21714952 [PubMed - as supplied by publisher] (Source: Applied Ergonomics) Applied Ergonomics journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4992251 Sun, 26 Jun 2011 23:00:00 +0100 4992251 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4992250&cid=s_34393_48_f&fid=34393&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov%2Fentrez%2Fquery.fcgi%3Ftmpl%3DNoSidebarfile%26db%3DPubMed%26cmd%3DRetrieve%26list_uids%3D21714953%26dopt%3DAbstract Authors: Ellegast RP, Kraft K, Groenesteijn L, Krause F, Berger H, Vink P Prolonged and static sitting postures provoke physical inactivity at VDU workplaces and are therefore discussed as risk factors for the musculoskeletal system. Manufacturers have designed specific dynamic office chairs featuring structural elements which promote dynamic sitting and therefore physical activity. The aim of the present study was to evaluate the effects of four specific dynamic chairs on erector spinae and trapezius EMG, postures/joint angles and physical activity intensity (PAI) compared to those of a conventional standard office chair. All chairs were fitted with sensors for measurement of the chair parameters (backrest inclination, forward and sideward seat pan inclination), and tested in the labo... Applied Ergonomics journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4992250 Sun, 26 Jun 2011 23:00:00 +0100 4992250 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4992249&cid=s_34393_48_f&fid=34393&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov%2Fentrez%2Fquery.fcgi%3Ftmpl%3DNoSidebarfile%26db%3DPubMed%26cmd%3DRetrieve%26list_uids%3D21714954%26dopt%3DAbstract Authors: Berthelette D, Leduc N, Bilodeau H, Durand MJ, Faye C The aim of this study was to evaluate the implementation fidelity of a multidimensional ergonomic program designed to prevent back pain injuries among healthcare personnel. The program, provided by peer trainers included training intended to modify patient handling and transfer behaviour, trainee follow-up, prevention activities aimed at work environment improvements and follow-up monitors training. Two hundred twenty-one peer trainers at 139 Quebec healthcare institutions participated in our study. Only 61.5% were involved in training; most of them taught safe patient handling, positioning, transfer, and preparation techniques, which are the cornerstones of the program; 72.7% were involved in prevention activities, 46.1% i... Applied Ergonomics journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4992249 Sun, 26 Jun 2011 23:00:00 +0100 4992249 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4992253&cid=s_34393_48_f&fid=34393&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov%2Fentrez%2Fquery.fcgi%3Ftmpl%3DNoSidebarfile%26db%3DPubMed%26cmd%3DRetrieve%26list_uids%3D21696703%26dopt%3DAbstract Authors: Kong YK, Kim DM, Lee KS, Jung MC The goal of this study was to compare three different evaluation systems of comfort, discomfort, and a continuum for the force levels and hand regions when gripping hand tools. Seventy-two participants were assigned to three groups, each group testing a different evaluation system. Each participant exerted ten levels of submaximal voluntary contractions on hand tools and used their assigned evaluation system to evaluate comfortable or uncomfortable feelings for the force levels and five different regions of the hand. The participants generally rated higher discomfort as required forces increased, but the discomfort and continuum evaluation systems were better than the comfort evaluation system because gripping exertion was related to the physic... Applied Ergonomics journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4992253 Sun, 19 Jun 2011 23:00:00 +0100 4992253 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4992252&cid=s_34393_48_f&fid=34393&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov%2Fentrez%2Fquery.fcgi%3Ftmpl%3DNoSidebarfile%26db%3DPubMed%26cmd%3DRetrieve%26list_uids%3D21696704%26dopt%3DAbstract Authors: Sheikhzadeh A, Yoon J, Formosa D, Domanska B, Morgan D, Schiff M Self-administration of new biological medications can be difficult for Rheumatoid Arthritis patients with functional impairment and hand and dexterity limitation. Twenty-three Rheumatoid Arthritis (RA) patients participated in this study to compare preferences and injection forces using a conventional syringe and a new ergonomically designed syringe. Injection force measurements were collected in two ways: a) isometric forces, with the syringes' plungers in fixed positions (depressed halfway and fully depressed), and b) forces exerted during injection of the medication. Subjects' grip and pinch strengths were measured. A perception questionnaire gauged subjects' impressions and preferences. Subjects were capable ... Applied Ergonomics journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4992252 Sun, 19 Jun 2011 23:00:00 +0100 4992252 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4992254&cid=s_34393_48_f&fid=34393&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov%2Fentrez%2Fquery.fcgi%3Ftmpl%3DNoSidebarfile%26db%3DPubMed%26cmd%3DRetrieve%26list_uids%3D21684524%26dopt%3DAbstract We describe our efforts to design a new set of safety signs in order to help prevent the occurrence of these types of accident. The research was funded under a Rail Safety and Standards Board (RSSB) managed UK Department for Transport research programme and was carried out in collaboration with Loughborough University. The study involved analysis of industry accident incidence data and running a set of classroom discussions with young school children (aged 5-10, n=210). The classroom discussions initially involved showing them examples of a new design prototype sign alongside existing train signs and gathering the requirements for new designs. A second set of classroom discussions with these children was used to evaluate the new signs based on the outcomes from earlier discussions. We desc... Applied Ergonomics journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4992254 Thu, 16 Jun 2011 23:00:00 +0100 4992254 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4992255&cid=s_34393_48_f&fid=34393&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov%2Fentrez%2Fquery.fcgi%3Ftmpl%3DNoSidebarfile%26db%3DPubMed%26cmd%3DRetrieve%26list_uids%3D21683338%26dopt%3DAbstract Authors: Oi H, Tabata K, Naka Y, Takeda A, Tochihara Y Eight subjects participated in a subjective experiment of eight conditions to investigate the effects of heated seats in vehicles on skin temperature, thermal sensation and thermal comfort during the initial warm-up period. The experimental conditions were designed as a combination of air temperature in the test room (5, 10, 15, or 20 °C) and heated seat (on/off). The heated seat was effective for improving thermal comfort during the initial warm-up period when air temperature was lower than 15 °C. Use of heated seats prevented decreases in or increased toe skin temperature. Heated seats also increased foot thermal sensation at 15 and 20 °C. Optimal thermal sensation in contact with the seat was higher when air temperature wa... Applied Ergonomics journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4992255 Tue, 14 Jun 2011 23:00:00 +0100 4992255 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4935680&cid=s_34393_48_f&fid=34393&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov%2Fentrez%2Fquery.fcgi%3Ftmpl%3DNoSidebarfile%26db%3DPubMed%26cmd%3DRetrieve%26list_uids%3D21665189%26dopt%3DAbstract Authors: Sinclair MA, Siemieniuch CE, Haslam RA, Henshaw MJ, Evans L The paper describes the development of a tool to predict quantitatively the success of a team when executing a process. The tool was developed for the UK defence industry, though it may be useful in other domains. It is expected to be used by systems engineers in initial stages of systems design, when concepts are still fluid, including the structure of the team(s) which are expected to be operators within the system. It enables answers to be calculated for questions such as "What happens if I reduce team size?" and "Can I reduce the qualifications necessary to execute this process and still achieve the required level of success?". The tool has undergone verification and validation; it predicts fairly well and shows p... Applied Ergonomics journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4935680 Thu, 09 Jun 2011 23:00:00 +0100 4935680 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4935679&cid=s_34393_48_f&fid=34393&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov%2Fentrez%2Fquery.fcgi%3Ftmpl%3DNoSidebarfile%26db%3DPubMed%26cmd%3DRetrieve%26list_uids%3D21665190%26dopt%3DAbstract Authors: Song GS, Lim JH, Ahn TK A total of 25 college students participated in a study to determine when they would use an air conditioner during a lecture in a university classroom. The ambient temperature and relative humidity were measured 75 cm above the floor every minute. Skin temperatures were measured every minute at seven points, according to the recommendation of Hardy and Dubois. The average clothing insulation value (CLO) of subjects was 0.53 ± 0.07 CLO. The mean air velocity in the classroom was 0.13 ± 0.028 m/s. When the subjects turned the air conditioner both on and off, the average ambient temperatures, relative humidity and mean skin temperatures were 27.4 and 23.7 °C (p = 0.000), 40.9 and 40.0% (p = 0.528) and 32.7 and 32.2 °C (p = 0.024), respecti... Applied Ergonomics journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4935679 Thu, 09 Jun 2011 23:00:00 +0100 4935679 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4935681&cid=s_34393_48_f&fid=34393&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov%2Fentrez%2Fquery.fcgi%3Ftmpl%3DNoSidebarfile%26db%3DPubMed%26cmd%3DRetrieve%26list_uids%3D21664603%26dopt%3DAbstract CONCLUSION: The reduction in head and neck flexion achieved by the prismatic glasses is likely to reduce the risk of neck pain during dental work. The effect of the prismatic lenses could not be separated from the effect of the optometric correction. The possible effect of the ergonomic education was not evaluated. PMID: 21664603 [PubMed - as supplied by publisher] (Source: Applied Ergonomics) Applied Ergonomics journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4935681 Wed, 08 Jun 2011 23:00:00 +0100 4935681 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4935682&cid=s_34393_48_f&fid=34393&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov%2Fentrez%2Fquery.fcgi%3Ftmpl%3DNoSidebarfile%26db%3DPubMed%26cmd%3DRetrieve%26list_uids%3D21658676%26dopt%3DAbstract This study examined the effects of different user age groups and target-expansion methods on target-acquisition tasks with grouped icons. Twenty-eight subjects performed acquisition tasks under eight experimental conditions: combinations of four expansion areas (no, one-icon, fish-eye, and group expansion) and two expansion techniques (occlusion and push). Older users took longer to acquire targets than younger users; however, they showed no significant difference in accuracy. Target expansion did not substantially improve performance speed compared to the static condition. However, the error rate was lowest when group area was expanded with the push technique, and both age groups were most satisfied with one-icon area expansion with the occlusion technique. We suggest alternative guidelin... Applied Ergonomics journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4935682 Mon, 06 Jun 2011 23:00:00 +0100 4935682 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4935683&cid=s_34393_48_f&fid=34393&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov%2Fentrez%2Fquery.fcgi%3Ftmpl%3DNoSidebarfile%26db%3DPubMed%26cmd%3DRetrieve%26list_uids%3D21636072%26dopt%3DAbstract Authors: Martin JL, Clark DJ, Morgan SP, Crowe JA, Murphy E The healthcare industry is dependent upon the provision of well designed medical devices. To achieve this it is recommended that user-centred design should begin early, and continue throughout device development. This is a challenge, particularly for smaller companies who may lack the necessary expertise and knowledge. The aim of this study was to conduct a rigorous yet focused investigation into the user requirements for a new medical imaging device. Open-ended semi-structured interviews were conducted with potential clinical users of the device to investigate the clinical need for the device and the potential benefits for patients and clinical users. The study identified a number of new and significant clinical needs that su... Applied Ergonomics journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4935683 Mon, 30 May 2011 23:00:00 +0100 4935683 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4893066&cid=s_34393_48_f&fid=34393&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov%2Fentrez%2Fquery.fcgi%3Ftmpl%3DNoSidebarfile%26db%3DPubMed%26cmd%3DRetrieve%26list_uids%3D21632033%26dopt%3DAbstract Authors: Dong RG, Welcome DE, McDowell TW PMID: 21632033 [PubMed - as supplied by publisher] (Source: Applied Ergonomics) Applied Ergonomics journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4893066 Sun, 29 May 2011 23:00:00 +0100 4893066 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4893065&cid=s_34393_48_f&fid=34393&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov%2Fentrez%2Fquery.fcgi%3Ftmpl%3DNoSidebarfile%26db%3DPubMed%26cmd%3DRetrieve%26list_uids%3D21632034%26dopt%3DAbstract The objective of this study was to evaluate occupational injuries in an urban EMS system before and after implementation of hydraulic stretchers. Data for this analysis were obtained from Austin Travis County EMS (A/TCEMS). In December 2006, A/TCEMS placed into service electrically powered patient stretchers. The pre-intervention period was between 01/01/1999 and 12/31/2006, and the post-intervention period was between 01/01/2007 and 4/30/2008. Incidence rate calculations were performed for four injury sub-groups and rate ratios (RRs) and corresponding 95% confidence interval (CI) were presented. There were 2087 and 706 person-years of observation pre- and post-intervention, respectively. The incidence rates for overall injury pre-intervention and post-intervention were 61.1 and 28.8 per 1... Applied Ergonomics journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4893065 Sun, 29 May 2011 23:00:00 +0100 4893065 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4893067&cid=s_34393_48_f&fid=34393&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov%2Fentrez%2Fquery.fcgi%3Ftmpl%3DNoSidebarfile%26db%3DPubMed%26cmd%3DRetrieve%26list_uids%3D21621745%26dopt%3DAbstract This study investigated the influence of user factors and symbol referents on public symbol design among older people, using the stereotype production method for collecting user ideas during the symbol design process. Thirty-one older adults were asked to draw images based on 28 public symbol referents and to indicate their familiarity with and ease with which they visualised each referent. Differences were found between the pictorial solutions generated by males and females. However, symbol design was not influenced by participants' education level, vividness of visual imagery, object imagery preference or spatial imagery preference. Both familiar and unfamiliar referents were illustrated pictorially without much difficulty by users. The more visual the referent, the less difficulty the u... Applied Ergonomics journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4893067 Thu, 26 May 2011 23:00:00 +0100 4893067 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4893068&cid=s_34393_48_f&fid=34393&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov%2Fentrez%2Fquery.fcgi%3Ftmpl%3DNoSidebarfile%26db%3DPubMed%26cmd%3DRetrieve%26list_uids%3D21616476%26dopt%3DAbstract Authors: Patel H, Pettitt M, Wilson JR The ability of organisations to support collaborative working environments is of increasing importance as they move towards more distributed ways of working. Despite the attention collaboration has received from a number of disparate fields, there is a lack of a unified understanding of the component factors of collaboration. As part of our work on a European Integrated Project, CoSpaces, collaboration and collaborative working and the factors which define it were examined through the literature and new empirical work with a number of partner user companies in the aerospace, automotive and construction sectors. This was to support development of a descriptive human factors model of collaboration - the CoSpaces Collaborative Working Model (CCWM). W... Applied Ergonomics journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4893068 Mon, 23 May 2011 23:00:00 +0100 4893068 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4893069&cid=s_34393_48_f&fid=34393&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov%2Fentrez%2Fquery.fcgi%3Ftmpl%3DNoSidebarfile%26db%3DPubMed%26cmd%3DRetrieve%26list_uids%3D21601830%26dopt%3DAbstract Authors: Damecour C, Abdoli-Eramaki M, Ghasempoor A, Stevenson J No trunk support (NTS) was compared to a lower trunk support (LTS) of leaning against a worktable and a dynamic upper trunk support (UTS) using postural kinematics, trunk extensor muscle activity and subjective rating of both comfort and effort. Ten females completed 3 repetitions where they lifted 0 and 5 kg load from a symmetrical position at hip-height to a 45° asymmetric position at: i) hip-height and ii) shoulder-height. Human motion capture showed trunk flexion decreased by 12° ± 10 with trunk support with hip-height reach. The table blocked axial rotation of the pelvis which was compensated by an additional 8° ± 6 rotation of the thoracic segment. Surface EMG of the lumbar erector spinae, contralateral t... Applied Ergonomics journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4893069 Fri, 20 May 2011 23:00:00 +0100 4893069 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4846715&cid=s_34393_48_f&fid=34393&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov%2Fentrez%2Fquery.fcgi%3Ftmpl%3DNoSidebarfile%26db%3DPubMed%26cmd%3DRetrieve%26list_uids%3D21571251%26dopt%3DAbstract Authors: Lack L, Short M, Dorrian J, Roach GD, Xhou X, Lovato N, Ferguson SA, Tremaine R PMID: 21571251 [PubMed - as supplied by publisher] (Source: Applied Ergonomics) Applied Ergonomics journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4846715 Thu, 12 May 2011 23:00:00 +0100 4846715 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4846718&cid=s_34393_48_f&fid=34393&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov%2Fentrez%2Fquery.fcgi%3Ftmpl%3DNoSidebarfile%26db%3DPubMed%26cmd%3DRetrieve%26list_uids%3D21570058%26dopt%3DAbstract Authors: McMaster R, Baber C This paper presents an investigation of command and control during Multi-Agency Operations; the purpose of this study was to elaborate on known themes associated with multi-agency emergency response, through a study of the successful combined military and civilian defence of Walham electricity substation from rising flood water in July 2007. This case study demonstrates that effective coordination during major emergencies requires the development of a deeper, shared understanding of the incident and a high level of trust between responding organisations, both of which are effortful to achieve and difficult to support with current communications systems. Adoption of a sociotechnical systems approach during the development process may enable future communicat... Applied Ergonomics journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4846718 Tue, 10 May 2011 23:00:00 +0100 4846718 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4846721&cid=s_34393_48_f&fid=34393&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov%2Fentrez%2Fquery.fcgi%3Ftmpl%3DNoSidebarfile%26db%3DPubMed%26cmd%3DRetrieve%26list_uids%3D21565327%26dopt%3DAbstract Authors: Chihara T, Yamazaki K In recent years, aluminum beverage bottles having screw tops with opening diameters of 28 and 38 mm have been launched in the Japanese market in keeping with the modern-day drinking habits of consumers. Although Japanese consumers are familiar with such bottles, a majority of them feel that the 28 mm opening is too small and the 38 mm opening is too large. Therefore, we felt the need to develop a method for evaluating consumer feelings when they drink a beverage directly from the bottle opening. For this purpose, we propose an evaluation function of drinking ease that calculates the optimum opening diameter of the bottle. From results of our previous study, we know that there exists an ideal volume of beverage flowing into the mouth, at which consumers... Applied Ergonomics journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4846721 Mon, 09 May 2011 23:00:00 +0100 4846721 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4846729&cid=s_34393_48_f&fid=34393&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov%2Fentrez%2Fquery.fcgi%3Ftmpl%3DNoSidebarfile%26db%3DPubMed%26cmd%3DRetrieve%26list_uids%3D21555114%26dopt%3DAbstract Authors: Lee KW, Lee YC The purpose of this research is introduce the design of an improved graphical user interface (GUI) and verifies the operational efficiency of the proposed interface. Until now, clicking the toolbar with the mouse is the usual way to operate software functions. In our research, we designed an improved graphical user interface - a tool ball that is operated by a mouse wheel to perform software functions. Several experiments are conducted to measure the time needed to operate certain software functions with the traditional combination of "mouse click + tool button" and the proposed integration of "mouse wheel + tool ball". The results indicate that the tool ball design can accelerate the speed of operating software functions, decrease the number of icons on the... Applied Ergonomics journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4846729 Fri, 06 May 2011 23:00:00 +0100 4846729 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4790184&cid=s_34393_48_f&fid=34393&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov%2Fentrez%2Fquery.fcgi%3Ftmpl%3DNoSidebarfile%26db%3DPubMed%26cmd%3DRetrieve%26list_uids%3D21531381%26dopt%3DAbstract Authors: Chan AH, Hoffmann ER Stereotype strength and reversibility were determined for displays that were in the Front, Right and Left orientations relative to the operator, along with rotary, horizontally and vertically-moving controls located in the overhead, left-sagittal and right-sagittal planes. In each case, responses were made using the left and right hands. The arrangements used were (i) rotary control with a circular display (ii) horizontal/transverse control moving forward/rearward in the left and right-sagittal planes or transversely in the overhead plane and (iii) vertical/longitudinal control moving vertically in the left and right-sagittal planes and longitudinally in the overhead plane. These are all combinations not previously researched. Stereotype strength varied w... Applied Ergonomics journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4790184 Fri, 29 Apr 2011 23:00:00 +0100 4790184 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4790186&cid=s_34393_48_f&fid=34393&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov%2Fentrez%2Fquery.fcgi%3Ftmpl%3DNoSidebarfile%26db%3DPubMed%26cmd%3DRetrieve%26list_uids%3D21530940%26dopt%3DAbstract Authors: Chadwick L, Fallon EF Radiotherapy treatment, like many other fields of medicine, has changed significantly in the last decade with the introduction of more advanced technology and automation. This change has often resulted in aspects of the system which cannot be automated due to technological feasibility and local implementation constraints. This has resulted in a requirement for significant human interaction. This combination of human operations and automation has introduced new error pathways. Traditionally, recommendations to improve the safety of such systems are typically made after the analysis of an adverse event or a significant series of incidents. In contrast, adopting a proactive approach to safety would enable prior identification of potential errors and the spec... Applied Ergonomics journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4790186 Wed, 27 Apr 2011 23:00:00 +0100 4790186 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4790185&cid=s_34393_48_f&fid=34393&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov%2Fentrez%2Fquery.fcgi%3Ftmpl%3DNoSidebarfile%26db%3DPubMed%26cmd%3DRetrieve%26list_uids%3D21530941%26dopt%3DAbstract This study explored the degree of rating consistency for different icon-background color combinations, and identified the color combinations with the highest rating for consistency. Rating consistency is the degree of agreement among subjective aesthetic preferences for a specific color combination. In total, 3306 color combinations were rated in this study. The standard deviation of each color combination was calculated as the performance measure for assessing rating consistency among subjects for each color combination. Analysis of variance (ANOVA) results demonstrated that the gender effect was insignificant and rating consistency was very low for both males and females. Furthermore, the experimental results showed that the color combinations affected rating consistency. Hence, cluster ... Applied Ergonomics journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4790185 Wed, 27 Apr 2011 23:00:00 +0100 4790185 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4790190&cid=s_34393_48_f&fid=34393&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov%2Fentrez%2Fquery.fcgi%3Ftmpl%3DNoSidebarfile%26db%3DPubMed%26cmd%3DRetrieve%26list_uids%3D21529771%26dopt%3DAbstract This study explored the effect of TV size, illumination, and viewing angle on preferred viewing distance in high-definition liquid crystal display televisions (HDTV). Results showed that the mean preferred viewing distance was 2856 mm. TV size and illumination significantly affected preferred viewing distance. The larger the screen size, the greater the preferred viewing distance, at around 3-4 times the width of the screen (W). The greater the illumination, the greater the preferred viewing distance. Viewing angle also correlated significantly with preferred viewing distance. The more deflected from direct frontal view, the shorter the preferred viewing distance seemed to be. PMID: 21529771 [PubMed - as supplied by publisher] (Source: Applied Ergonomics) Applied Ergonomics journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4790190 Tue, 26 Apr 2011 23:00:00 +0100 4790190 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4790189&cid=s_34393_48_f&fid=34393&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov%2Fentrez%2Fquery.fcgi%3Ftmpl%3DNoSidebarfile%26db%3DPubMed%26cmd%3DRetrieve%26list_uids%3D21529772%26dopt%3DAbstract Authors: Sonne M, Villalta DL, Andrews DM The Rapid Office Strain Assessment (ROSA) was designed to quickly quantify risks associated with computer work and to establish an action level for change based on reports of worker discomfort. Computer use risk factors were identified in previous research and standards on office design for the chair, monitor, telephone, keyboard and mouse. The risk factors were diagrammed and coded as increasing scores from 1 to 3. ROSA final scores ranged in magnitude from 1 to 10, with each successive score representing an increased presence of risk factors. Total body discomfort and ROSA final scores for 72 office workstations were significantly correlated (R = 0.384). ROSA final scores exhibited high inter- and intra-observer reliability (ICCs of 0.88 an... Applied Ergonomics journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4790189 Tue, 26 Apr 2011 23:00:00 +0100 4790189 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4790188&cid=s_34393_48_f&fid=34393&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov%2Fentrez%2Fquery.fcgi%3Ftmpl%3DNoSidebarfile%26db%3DPubMed%26cmd%3DRetrieve%26list_uids%3D21529773%26dopt%3DAbstract Authors: Mullineaux DR, Underwood SM, Shapiro R, Hall JW The aim was to examine the effects of training with real-time biomechanical biofeedback on technique and performance of rifle shooters. Top-level shooters were randomly assigned to biofeedback- (n = 5) and control- (n = 4) groups. Bi-weekly training of 20 shots air-rifle for 4 weeks, with pre- and post-tests of 20 shots air-rifle and smallbore, were performed. The biofeedback group received individualized real-time auditory biofeedback on postural- and barrel-stabilities. Results revealed a technique of reducing postural- and barrel-stabilities towards triggering (e.g. barrel speed 8.0 ± 1.2 mm/s at 3.0-1.0 s reducing to 5.4 ± 0.8 mm/s at 0.3-0.1 s). There were no changes pre- to post-tests and no differences bet... Applied Ergonomics journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4790188 Tue, 26 Apr 2011 23:00:00 +0100 4790188 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4790187&cid=s_34393_48_f&fid=34393&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov%2Fentrez%2Fquery.fcgi%3Ftmpl%3DNoSidebarfile%26db%3DPubMed%26cmd%3DRetrieve%26list_uids%3D21529774%26dopt%3DAbstract Authors: Xu X, Chang CC, Faber GS, Kingma I, Dennerlein JT Previous research proposed a method using interpolation of the joint angles in key frames extracted from a field-survey video to estimate the dynamic L5/S1 joint loading for symmetric lifting tasks. The advantage of this method is that there is no need to use unwieldy equipment for capturing full body movement for the lifting tasks. The current research extends this method to asymmetric lifting tasks. The results indicate that 4-point cubic spline interpolation of segment Euler angles combined with a biomechanical model can provide a good estimation of 3-D peak L5/S1 joint moments for asymmetric lifting tasks. The average absolute error in the coronal, sagittal, and transverse planes with respect to the local pelvis axes was 16... Applied Ergonomics journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4790187 Tue, 26 Apr 2011 23:00:00 +0100 4790187 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4790191&cid=s_34393_48_f&fid=34393&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov%2Fentrez%2Fquery.fcgi%3Ftmpl%3DNoSidebarfile%26db%3DPubMed%26cmd%3DRetrieve%26list_uids%3D21514565%26dopt%3DAbstract Authors: Roca J, Castro C, Bueno M, Moreno-Ríos S This research aims to analyse how drivers integrate the information provided by traffic signs with their general goals (i.e. where they want to go). Some previous studies have evaluated the comparative advantages of obligatory and prohibitory traffic signs using a judgement task. In this work, a new experimental task with greater similarity to driving situations is proposed. Participants imagine they are driving a vehicle and must make right or left turn manoeuvres according to a previously indicated objective and the information from obligatory and prohibitory traffic signs. Eighty-two participants took part in two different experiments. According to the results, an obligatory traffic sign is associated with faster and more accurate r... Applied Ergonomics journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4790191 Wed, 20 Apr 2011 23:00:00 +0100 4790191 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4790192&cid=s_34393_48_f&fid=34393&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov%2Fentrez%2Fquery.fcgi%3Ftmpl%3DNoSidebarfile%26db%3DPubMed%26cmd%3DRetrieve%26list_uids%3D21507379%26dopt%3DAbstract Authors: Kawada T, Suzuki H, Shimizu T, Katsumata M PMID: 21507379 [PubMed - as supplied by publisher] (Source: Applied Ergonomics) Applied Ergonomics journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4790192 Sun, 17 Apr 2011 23:00:00 +0100 4790192 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4790194&cid=s_34393_48_f&fid=34393&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov%2Fentrez%2Fquery.fcgi%3Ftmpl%3DNoSidebarfile%26db%3DPubMed%26cmd%3DRetrieve%26list_uids%3D21501834%26dopt%3DAbstract Authors: Pérez-Alonso J, Carreño-Ortega A, Vázquez-Cabrera FJ, Callejón-Ferre AJ This work analyses the labour accidents in the greenhouse-construction industry of SE Spain for the period 1999-2007 through a sample of 180 accident reports. The accidents were characterised by studying 5 variables in order to know the day of the week in which the accident occurred, the hour of the day of the accident, type of accident, the region of Spain in which the accident happened, and the resulting injury. The data characterising the accidents were submitted to a descriptive multiple-correspondence analysis. The incidence of accidents in the greenhouse-construction industry presented a high mean value of 15133.7 per 100 000 workers per year. The days with the greatest incidence of accidents w... Applied Ergonomics journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4790194 Fri, 15 Apr 2011 23:00:00 +0100 4790194 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4790193&cid=s_34393_48_f&fid=34393&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov%2Fentrez%2Fquery.fcgi%3Ftmpl%3DNoSidebarfile%26db%3DPubMed%26cmd%3DRetrieve%26list_uids%3D21501835%26dopt%3DAbstract Authors: Herring SR, Castillejos P, Hallbeck MS Current neutron detectors are big, heavy, difficult to use and are not ergonomically designed. Good handle design and easy to use control mechanisms are imperative for comfort, usability and accuracy for hand-held tools. Two studies were performed to assess these factors; Study I explored handle design (shape and size) preference and Study II evaluated the effects of control mechanisms, device orientations and word orientation on performance time. According to research findings, the recommended handle perimeter is 11 cm with a diameter range of 3.5-4.0 cm. These results demonstrated that as the handle perimeter decreased the handle becomes less preferred by first responders when using layered gloves. For control type, the fastest perfor... Applied Ergonomics journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4790193 Fri, 15 Apr 2011 23:00:00 +0100 4790193 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4790195&cid=s_34393_48_f&fid=34393&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov%2Fentrez%2Fquery.fcgi%3Ftmpl%3DNoSidebarfile%26db%3DPubMed%26cmd%3DRetrieve%26list_uids%3D21497791%26dopt%3DAbstract This study focuses on the comparison of traditional engineering drawings with a CAD (computer aided design) visualization in terms of user performance and eye movements in an applied context. Twenty-five students of mechanical engineering completed search tasks for measures in two distinct depictions of a car engine component (engineering drawing vs. CAD model). Besides spatial dimensionality, the display types most notably differed in terms of information layout, access and interaction options. The CAD visualization yielded better performance, if users directly manipulated the object, but was inferior, if employed in a conventional static manner, i.e. inspecting only predefined views. An additional eye movement analysis revealed longer fixation durations and a stronger increase of task-re... Applied Ergonomics journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4790195 Thu, 14 Apr 2011 23:00:00 +0100 4790195 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4790196&cid=s_34393_48_f&fid=34393&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov%2Fentrez%2Fquery.fcgi%3Ftmpl%3DNoSidebarfile%26db%3DPubMed%26cmd%3DRetrieve%26list_uids%3D21489400%26dopt%3DAbstract Authors: Wang YJ, Mok PY, Li Y, Kwok YL It is generally accepted that there is a relationship between body dimensions, body movement and clothing wearing ease design, and yet previous research in this area has been neither sufficient nor systematic. This paper proposes a method to measure the human body in the static state and in 17 dynamic postures, so as to understand dimensional changes of different body parts during dynamic movements. Experimental work is carried out to collect 30 measurements of 10 male Chinese subjects in both static and dynamic states. Factor analysis is used to analyse body measurement data in a static state, and such key measurements describe the characteristics of different body figures. Moreover, one-way ANOVA is used to analyse how dynamic postures affect t... Applied Ergonomics journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4790196 Sun, 10 Apr 2011 23:00:00 +0100 4790196 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4790197&cid=s_34393_48_f&fid=34393&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov%2Fentrez%2Fquery.fcgi%3Ftmpl%3DNoSidebarfile%26db%3DPubMed%26cmd%3DRetrieve%26list_uids%3D21482419%26dopt%3DAbstract This article reports on a pilot experimental study aimed at a first evaluation of the introduction of an articulation in the upper part of the seat backrest. The idea of introducing this articulation sprang from prevention of whiplash injuries and this study tentatively assesses its potential for improvement in comfort. This was done considering a pre-defined articulation height. A height for the articulation of 43.5 cm above the H-point of a reference seat was theoretically deduced based on a population with an average sitting height of 88 cm. Participants evaluated the articulated seat in comparison with the reference seat. Twelve participants were divided into three groups of sitting height. In a laboratory environment subjective comfort evaluations and preferred values of deployment ... Applied Ergonomics journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4790197 Fri, 08 Apr 2011 23:00:00 +0100 4790197 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4681187&cid=s_34393_48_f&fid=34393&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov%2Fentrez%2Fquery.fcgi%3Ftmpl%3DNoSidebarfile%26db%3DPubMed%26cmd%3DRetrieve%26list_uids%3D21459361%26dopt%3DAbstract Authors: Branaghan RJ, Covas-Smith CM, Jackson KD, Eidman C Frequently, user interface (UI) designers must choose between modifying an established, but suboptimal and familiar, UI or to avoid such changes. Changing the UI's, organization may frustrate users who have become familiar with the original design, whereas failing to make changes may force users to perform at an unsatisfactory level. This paper presents two studies that investigate whether users familiar with a poorly designed UI would find items faster, and prefer a reorganized UI that conformed to domain expert knowledge, or would their familiarity with the original UI yield faster performance and higher satisfaction. This paper describes activities to redesign a menu structure in a simulator instructor-operator station (IOS... Applied Ergonomics journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4681187 Thu, 31 Mar 2011 23:00:00 +0100 4681187 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4681189&cid=s_34393_48_f&fid=34393&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov%2Fentrez%2Fquery.fcgi%3Ftmpl%3DNoSidebarfile%26db%3DPubMed%26cmd%3DRetrieve%26list_uids%3D21439548%26dopt%3DAbstract Authors: Taber MJ, Dies NF, Cheung SS Although essential in an emergency such as a helicopter ditching, mandatory survival suits worn by civilian personnel may lead to heat strain during a normal flight. To explore the possibility that wearing a helicopter transportation suit impairs emergency performance, 11 individuals completed underwater escape procedures immediately following a pre-recorded emergency announcement (randomly played between 50 and 90 min) in two ambient temperature conditions (Thermoneutral = 21 °C and Hot = 34 °C). Mean skin and rectal temperatures were recorded throughout the trials, while situation awareness and thermal sensation/comfort were recorded on completion of trials. Results indicate that although mean skin and rectal temperatures were significan... Applied Ergonomics journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4681189 Wed, 23 Mar 2011 00:00:00 +0100 4681189 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4681188&cid=s_34393_48_f&fid=34393&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov%2Fentrez%2Fquery.fcgi%3Ftmpl%3DNoSidebarfile%26db%3DPubMed%26cmd%3DRetrieve%26list_uids%3D21439549%26dopt%3DAbstract Authors: Li KW, Yu R The Borg CR-10 scale has been used to quantify the perception of physical exertion. An experiment was conducted to test the grip force of males on four levels of the CR-10 scale under experimental conditions. It was found that the subjects applied higher grip forces than they perceived at levels 2, 5, and 7 on the scale. The grip forces between dominant and non-dominant hands at low CR-10 levels were negligible. The grip forces were significantly different between the two hands at level 10. Similar results were found for the postural conditions. A follow-up experiment was conducted to estimate the subjective rating when applying a pre-determined grip force under the same conditions. Regression models were established to link the relationship between the subjective ... Applied Ergonomics journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4681188 Wed, 23 Mar 2011 00:00:00 +0100 4681188 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4625583&cid=s_34393_48_f&fid=34393&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov%2Fentrez%2Fquery.fcgi%3Ftmpl%3DNoSidebarfile%26db%3DPubMed%26cmd%3DRetrieve%26list_uids%3D21414602%26dopt%3DAbstract Authors: Oliveira AV, Gaspar AR, Quintela DA The main objective of the present work is the assessment of the thermal insulation of clothing ensembles, both in static conditions and considering the effect of body movements. The different equations used to calculate the equivalent thermal resistance of the whole body, namely the serial, the global and the parallel methods, are considered and the results are presented and discussed for the basic, the effective and the total clothing insulations. The results show that the dynamic thermal insulation values are always lower than the corresponding static ones. The highest mean relative difference [(static-dynamic)/static] was obtained with the parallel method and the lowest with the serial. For I(cl) the mean relative differences varied from ... Applied Ergonomics journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4625583 Wed, 16 Mar 2011 00:00:00 +0100 4625583 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4625584&cid=s_34393_48_f&fid=34393&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov%2Fentrez%2Fquery.fcgi%3Ftmpl%3DNoSidebarfile%26db%3DPubMed%26cmd%3DRetrieve%26list_uids%3D21411058%26dopt%3DAbstract This study also correlates low back pain symptoms from Rehabilitation Bioengineering Group Pain Scale (RBGPS) questionnaire with muscle fatigue rates obtained. RBGPS was administered on 20 Coast Guard helicopter pilots. sEMG was acquired before and after flight from erector spinae and trapezius muscles in 8 of these 20 pilots. Statistical analysis of time and frequency domain parameters indicated significant fatigue in right trapezius muscle due to flying. Muscle fatigue correlated with average duration of flight (r(2) = 0.913), total service as pilot (r(2) = 0.825), pain (r(2) = 0.463) and total flying hours (r(2) = 0.507). However, muscle fatigue weakly correlated with Body Mass Index (BMI) (r(2) = 0.000144) and age (r(2) = 0.033). PMID: 21411058 [PubMed - as supplied by ... Applied Ergonomics journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4625584 Mon, 14 Mar 2011 00:00:00 +0100 4625584 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4625585&cid=s_34393_48_f&fid=34393&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov%2Fentrez%2Fquery.fcgi%3Ftmpl%3DNoSidebarfile%26db%3DPubMed%26cmd%3DRetrieve%26list_uids%3D21397891%26dopt%3DAbstract Authors: Choi H, Park MS, Nam B, Lee J, Kim E, Lee HM Studies of palm surface area (PSA) have been investigated as an important reference area unit in physiology and medicine today. Most previous PSA studies have been limited to adults. The purpose of this study was to archive Korean children's PSA data and to calculate an optimized formula for estimating PSA. A total of 305 people, 186 boys and 119 girls all aged between 7 and 18 years, were recruited for this study and their PSA was directly measured by a useful, accurate, and quick method - the alginate method. Mean PSA for males and females was found and the optimized formula for estimating PSA was computed. It would be meaningful to note that this trial was the first to generate data from Korean children, which could be widely ava... Applied Ergonomics journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4625585 Fri, 11 Mar 2011 00:00:00 +0100 4625585 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4625586&cid=s_34393_48_f&fid=34393&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov%2Fentrez%2Fquery.fcgi%3Ftmpl%3DNoSidebarfile%26db%3DPubMed%26cmd%3DRetrieve%26list_uids%3D21397210%26dopt%3DAbstract Authors: Jin S, Mirka GA Leaning against a stationary barrier during manual materials handling tasks is observed in many industrial environments, but the effects of this kinematic constraint on low back mechanics are unknown. Thirteen participants performed two-handed lifting tasks using both a leaning posture and no leaning posture while trunk kinematics, muscle activity and ground reaction force were monitored. Results revealed that lifting with the leaning posture required significantly less activity in erector spinae (26% vs. 36% MVC) and latissimus dorsi (8% vs. 14% MVC), and less passive tissue moment compared with the no leaning posture. Peak sagittal accelerations were lower when leaning, but the leaning posture also had significantly higher slip potential as measured by requir... Applied Ergonomics journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4625586 Thu, 10 Mar 2011 00:00:00 +0100 4625586 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4561124&cid=s_34393_48_f&fid=34393&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov%2Fentrez%2Fquery.fcgi%3Ftmpl%3DNoSidebarfile%26db%3DPubMed%26cmd%3DRetrieve%26list_uids%3D21377141%26dopt%3DAbstract A note on "Improving cardiac surgical care: A work systems approach" Appl Ergon. 2011 Mar 3; Authors: Al-Hakim L PMID: 21377141 [PubMed - as supplied by publisher] (Source: Applied Ergonomics) Applied Ergonomics journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4561124 Thu, 03 Mar 2011 00:00:00 +0100 4561124 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4561125&cid=s_34393_48_f&fid=34393&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov%2Fentrez%2Fquery.fcgi%3Ftmpl%3DNoSidebarfile%26db%3DPubMed%26cmd%3DRetrieve%26list_uids%3D21376306%26dopt%3DAbstract Authors: Eliav A, Lavie T, Parmet Y, Stern H, Edan Y An in-depth evaluation of the usability and situation awareness performance of different displays and destination controls of robots are presented. In two experiments we evaluate the way information is presented to the operator and assess different means for controlling the robot. Our study compares three types of displays: a "blocks" display, a HUD (head-up display), and a radar display, and two types of controls: touch screen and hand gestures. The HUD demonstrated better performance when compared to the blocks display and was perceived to have greater usability compared to the radar display. The HUD was also found to be more useful when the operation of the robot was more difficult, i.e., when using the hand-gesture method. The ex... Applied Ergonomics journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4561125 Wed, 02 Mar 2011 00:00:00 +0100 4561125 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4561127&cid=s_34393_48_f&fid=34393&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov%2Fentrez%2Fquery.fcgi%3Ftmpl%3DNoSidebarfile%26db%3DPubMed%26cmd%3DRetrieve%26list_uids%3D21356531%26dopt%3DAbstract Authors: Uusitalo A, Mets T, Martinmäki K, Mauno S, Kinnunen U, Rusko H Changes in autonomic nervous system function have been related to work stress induced increases in cardiovascular morbidity and mortality. Our purpose was to examine whether various heart rate variability (HRV) measures and new HRV-based relaxation measures are related to self-reported chronic work stress and daily emotions. The relaxation measures are based on neural network modelling of individual baseline heart rate and HRV information. Nineteen healthy hospital workers were studied during two work days during the same work period. Daytime, work time and night time heart rate, as well as physical activity were recorded. An effort-reward imbalance (ERI) questionnaire was used to assess chronic work stress. The e... Applied Ergonomics journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4561127 Sat, 26 Feb 2011 00:00:00 +0100 4561127 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4561126&cid=s_34393_48_f&fid=34393&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov%2Fentrez%2Fquery.fcgi%3Ftmpl%3DNoSidebarfile%26db%3DPubMed%26cmd%3DRetrieve%26list_uids%3D21356532%26dopt%3DAbstract Authors: Rugelj D, SevÅ¡ek F The purpose of this study was to investigate the effects of increasing load on postural sway in two different carrying positions: backpack and waist jacket. Potential differences between males and females were additionally evaluated. 60 young college students participated in this study, and were assigned to backpack and waist jacket groups. The loads in both groups were 12, 21 and 30 kg. Stabilometry was used to assess the amount of postural sway. The medio-lateral and antero-posterior mean sway, mean velocity, medio-lateral and antero-posterior path length and sway area of the centre of pressure position were calculated. In the backpack group all analyzed sway parameters linearly increased with additional load, the differences were significant at p <Â... Applied Ergonomics journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4561126 Sat, 26 Feb 2011 00:00:00 +0100 4561126 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4561128&cid=s_34393_48_f&fid=34393&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov%2Fentrez%2Fquery.fcgi%3Ftmpl%3DNoSidebarfile%26db%3DPubMed%26cmd%3DRetrieve%26list_uids%3D21354553%26dopt%3DAbstract Authors: Baysari MT, Caponecchia C, McIntosh AS The aim of this study was to compare the usability and reliability of two human error identification tools: TRACEr-Rail (developed by the Rail Safety and Standards Board in the UK) and TRACEr-RAV (an Australian specific version of the tool). Following an attempt to modify TRACEr-Rail to more appropriately suit the Australian rail context, it was predicted that TRACEr-RAV would be rated as more usable and be applied more consistently by Australian users than TRACEr-Rail. In Experiment 1, twenty-five rail employees used either TRACEr-Rail or TRACEr-RAV1 to extract and classify errors from six Australian rail incident reports. In Experiment 2, eleven university students used both TRACEr-Rail and TRACEr-RAV2 to extract and classify errors fro... Applied Ergonomics journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4561128 Fri, 25 Feb 2011 00:00:00 +0100 4561128 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4561129&cid=s_34393_48_f&fid=34393&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov%2Fentrez%2Fquery.fcgi%3Ftmpl%3DNoSidebarfile%26db%3DPubMed%26cmd%3DRetrieve%26list_uids%3D21349496%26dopt%3DAbstract This study evaluated the validity of worker estimates of hand force in a field study and determined the misclassification of worker estimated hand force exposures compared to directly measured forces. Eight experienced sheet metal assemblers completed ¼-inch diameter fastener installations using 6 different pneumatic tools. Grip forces were recorded by a pressure mat and were compared to worker estimated forces demonstrated on a dynamometer. Directly measured and worker estimated readings showed moderate correlations (0.53-0.67) for four installation tools and fair to moderate for two tools. The coefficient for variation of force estimates was 65% within repeated subject trials and 78% between averaged subject trials but 69% between subject trials during actual tool installations. Misclas... Applied Ergonomics journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4561129 Tue, 22 Feb 2011 00:00:00 +0100 4561129 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4561130&cid=s_34393_48_f&fid=34393&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov%2Fentrez%2Fquery.fcgi%3Ftmpl%3DNoSidebarfile%26db%3DPubMed%26cmd%3DRetrieve%26list_uids%3D21338981%26dopt%3DAbstract This study investigated the effect of moving from small offices to a landscape environment for 19 Visual Display Unit (VDU) operators at Alcatel Denmark AS. The operators reported significantly improved lighting condition and glare situation. Further, visual discomfort was also significantly reduced on a Visual Analogue Scale (VAS). There was no significant correlation between lighting condition and visual discomfort neither in the small offices nor in the office landscape. However, visual discomfort correlated significantly with glare in small offices i.e. more glare is related to more visual discomfort. This correlation disappeared after the lighting system in the office landscape had been improved. There was also a significant correlation between glare and itching of the eyes as well as... Applied Ergonomics journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4561130 Sat, 19 Feb 2011 00:00:00 +0100 4561130 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4507684&cid=s_34393_48_f&fid=34393&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov%2Fentrez%2Fquery.fcgi%3Ftmpl%3DNoSidebarfile%26db%3DPubMed%26cmd%3DRetrieve%26list_uids%3D21334596%26dopt%3DAbstract Authors: Keir PJ, Sanei K, Holmes MW Job rotation is an intuitive approach to distributing work to minimize muscular fatigue. The purpose of the current study was to evaluate rotation between lifting and gripping on muscle activity and effort. Ten male participants performed all 4 combinations of two 15 min tasks in 30 min trials split between separate days to prevent fatigue. The tasks of lifting a 12 kg box and gripping at 20% of maximum were performed 6 times per minute (5 s work: 5 s rest). Muscle activity (percentiles, gaps) and perceived effort were significantly affected by the task combinations. The forearm and upper erector spinae muscles did not benefit as greatly from rotating between lifting and gripping tasks as the lower erector spinae, deltoid or trapezius. In addit... Applied Ergonomics journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4507684 Fri, 18 Feb 2011 00:00:00 +0100 4507684 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4507685&cid=s_34393_48_f&fid=34393&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov%2Fentrez%2Fquery.fcgi%3Ftmpl%3DNoSidebarfile%26db%3DPubMed%26cmd%3DRetrieve%26list_uids%3D21316645%26dopt%3DAbstract Authors: Di Stasi LL, Antolí A, Cañas JJ The primary aim of this study was to validate the saccadic main sequence, in particular the peak velocity [PV], as an alternative psychophysiological measure of Mental Workload [MW]. Taking the Wickens' multiple resource model as the theoretical framework of reference, an experiment was conducted using the Firechief(®) microworld. MW was manipulated by changing the task complexity (between groups) and the amount of training (within groups). There were significant effects on PV from both factors. These results provide additional empirical support for the sensitivity of PV to discriminate MW variation on visual-dynamic complex tasks. These findings and other recent results on PV could provide important information for the development of a new v... Applied Ergonomics journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4507685 Fri, 11 Feb 2011 00:00:00 +0100 4507685 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4450607&cid=s_34393_48_f&fid=34393&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov%2Fentrez%2Fquery.fcgi%3Ftmpl%3DNoSidebarfile%26db%3DPubMed%26cmd%3DRetrieve%26list_uids%3D21296335%26dopt%3DAbstract Authors: Dehais F, Sisbot EA, Alami R, Causse M In the context of task sharing between a robot companion and its human partners, the notions of safe and compliant hardware are not enough. It is necessary to guarantee ergonomic robot motions. Therefore, we have developed Human Aware Manipulation Planner (Sisbot et al., 2010), a motion planner specifically designed for human-robot object transfer by explicitly taking into account the legibility, the safety and the physical comfort of robot motions. The main objective of this research was to define precise subjective metrics to assess our planner when a human interacts with a robot in an object hand-over task. A second objective was to obtain quantitative data to evaluate the effect of this interaction. Given the short duration, the "rel... Applied Ergonomics journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4450607 Fri, 04 Feb 2011 00:00:00 +0100 4450607 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4450606&cid=s_34393_48_f&fid=34393&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov%2Fentrez%2Fquery.fcgi%3Ftmpl%3DNoSidebarfile%26db%3DPubMed%26cmd%3DRetrieve%26list_uids%3D21296336%26dopt%3DAbstract Authors: Lau MH, Armstrong TJ Observational assessment of wrist posture using photographic methods is theoretically affected by camera view angle. A study was conducted to investigate whether wrist flexion/extension and radial/ulnar deviation postures were estimated differently by raters depending on the viewing angle and compared to predictions using a quantitative 2D model of parallax. Novice raters (n=26) estimated joint angles from images of wrist postures photographed from ten different viewing angles. Results indicated that ideal views, orthogonal to the plane of motion, produced more accurate estimates of posture compared to non-ideal views. The neutral (0°) posture was estimated the most accurately even at different viewing angles. Raters were more accurate than model predicti... Applied Ergonomics journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4450606 Fri, 04 Feb 2011 00:00:00 +0100 4450606 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4450605&cid=s_34393_48_f&fid=34393&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov%2Fentrez%2Fquery.fcgi%3Ftmpl%3DNoSidebarfile%26db%3DPubMed%26cmd%3DRetrieve%26list_uids%3D21296337%26dopt%3DAbstract We examined whether skill and LBP influenced trunk postures and loads of 60 wool handlers representing 3 skill levels. LBP prevalence ranged from 20% for junior (lowest skill) to 45% for open class (highest skill) wool handlers. Open class wool handlers demonstrated increased lateral bend and more axially twisted postures, generating greater medio-lateral shear forces and lateral bend and axial twist moments. LBP was associated with open class wool handlers spending more time in severe axially twisted postures. These findings suggest that skill-based training needs to be reviewed to reduce the quantity of axially twisted posture which may help reduce the prevalence of LBP in this workforce. PMID: 21296337 [PubMed - as supplied by publisher] (Source: Applied Ergonomics) Applied Ergonomics journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4450605 Fri, 04 Feb 2011 00:00:00 +0100 4450605 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4450608&cid=s_34393_48_f&fid=34393&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov%2Fentrez%2Fquery.fcgi%3Ftmpl%3DNoSidebarfile%26db%3DPubMed%26cmd%3DRetrieve%26list_uids%3D21281930%26dopt%3DAbstract Authors: Rousek JB, Hallbeck MS Healthcare facilities are increasingly utilizing pictograms rather than text signs to help direct people. The purpose of this study was to analyze a wide variety of standardized healthcare pictograms and the effects of color contrasts and complexity for participants with both normal and impaired vision. Fifty (25 males, 25 females) participants completed a signage recognition questionnaire and identified pictograms while wearing vision simulators to represent specific visual impairment. The study showed that certain color contrasts, complexities and orientations can help or hinder comprehension of signage for people with and without visual impairment. High contrast signage with consistent pictograms involving human figures (not too detailed or too abstra... Applied Ergonomics journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4450608 Sat, 29 Jan 2011 00:00:00 +0100 4450608 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4450609&cid=s_34393_48_f&fid=34393&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov%2Fentrez%2Fquery.fcgi%3Ftmpl%3DNoSidebarfile%26db%3DPubMed%26cmd%3DRetrieve%26list_uids%3D21277564%26dopt%3DAbstract This study reports on an experimental investigation of physical properties on the textile thermal comfort. Textile properties, such as thickness, relative porosity, air permeability, moisture regain, thermal conductivity, drying time and water-vapour transmission rate have been considered and correlated to the thermal and vapour resistance, permeability index, thermal effusivity and moisture management capability in order to determine the overall comfort performance of underwear fabrics. The results suggested that the fibre type, together with moisture regain and knitted structure characteristics appeared to affect some comfort-related properties of the fabrics. Additionally, thermal sensations, temperature and skin wetness predicted by Caseto(®) software for three distinct activity lev... Applied Ergonomics journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4450609 Fri, 28 Jan 2011 00:00:00 +0100 4450609 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4386557&cid=s_34393_48_f&fid=34393&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov%2Fentrez%2Fquery.fcgi%3Ftmpl%3DNoSidebarfile%26db%3DPubMed%26cmd%3DRetrieve%26list_uids%3D21237445%26dopt%3DAbstract Authors: Jenkins DP, Stanton NA, Salmon PM, Walker GH This paper describes a new approach for developing design specifications for synthetic environments that support decisions making training. The approach starts by modelling the constraints governing decision-making activity in the real world. A focus is placed on what could happen in the decision-making process, rather than what does or what should. Importantly, the developed model is independent of specific actors and events, providing a robust description of the domain that remains applicable in almost all perceivable situations. By modelling the relationship between information elements, and the way decision-makers develop an understanding of their environment, the approach identifies the information that may be pertinent to the ... Applied Ergonomics journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4386557 Thu, 13 Jan 2011 00:00:00 +0100 4386557 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4386558&cid=s_34393_48_f&fid=34393&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov%2Fentrez%2Fquery.fcgi%3Ftmpl%3DNoSidebarfile%26db%3DPubMed%26cmd%3DRetrieve%26list_uids%3D21236415%26dopt%3DAbstract CONCLUSIONS: While the new long-handled hoe performed better in the timed trials in this study, most subjects preferred the new short-handled hoe. Subjects should be sensitized on the benefits of the long-handled hoe. PMID: 21236415 [PubMed - as supplied by publisher] (Source: Applied Ergonomics) Applied Ergonomics journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4386558 Wed, 12 Jan 2011 00:00:00 +0100 4386558 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4386559&cid=s_34393_48_f&fid=34393&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov%2Fentrez%2Fquery.fcgi%3Ftmpl%3DNoSidebarfile%26db%3DPubMed%26cmd%3DRetrieve%26list_uids%3D21211788%26dopt%3DAbstract Authors: Rowson J, Yoxall A Society is ageing and sadly that ageing leads to a host of issues, not least a society in which the majority are likely to have some loss of strength and dexterity. This can lead to complications in undertaking everyday tasks such as using transport, bathing or even handling and opening food. Packaging has to provide a multitude of services; to protect and preserve the product, to provide information to the consumer and not least to allow access to the contents. This access to packaging - or 'openability' - has become a significant issue for designers and manufacturers with the change in demographics as described above. Understanding the choices consumers make in how they manipulate packaging can help designers produce packaging that is more able to meet the... Applied Ergonomics journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4386559 Tue, 04 Jan 2011 00:00:00 +0100 4386559 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4386560&cid=s_34393_48_f&fid=34393&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov%2Fentrez%2Fquery.fcgi%3Ftmpl%3DNoSidebarfile%26db%3DPubMed%26cmd%3DRetrieve%26list_uids%3D21208609%26dopt%3DAbstract Authors: Murphy T, Oliver ML The efficacy of a newly designed dynamic armrest was evaluated during joystick operation of a typical North American hydraulic-actuation joystick. The dynamic design was evaluated against a stationary armrest condition as well as no armrest condition. Electromyography (EMG) and subjective measurements were used to make the evaluation. The dynamic armrest, which mimics the natural pendulation of a joystick operator's arm in the forward and backward directions, was shown to significantly decrease the muscular activation in the upper trapezius, posterior deltoid, and anterior deltoid (p ≤ 0.01) over a stationary armrest. A questionnaire revealed that subjects significantly (p = 0.01) preferred the dynamic armrest design over either a standard armrest or ... Applied Ergonomics journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4386560 Mon, 03 Jan 2011 00:00:00 +0100 4386560 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4386562&cid=s_34393_48_f&fid=34393&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov%2Fentrez%2Fquery.fcgi%3Ftmpl%3DNoSidebarfile%26db%3DPubMed%26cmd%3DRetrieve%26list_uids%3D21183155%26dopt%3DAbstract Authors: Fethke NB, Gant LC, Gerr F We investigated the effect of an alternative welding system designed to reduce exposure to extreme trunk flexion on measures of trunk inclination and muscle activity. Among 10 participants, data were collected while using conventional stud welding equipment and while using the alternate system. Paired t-tests were used to compare results between the two welding systems. Mean trunk inclination angle was reduced with the alternate system (34.4° versus 9.7°, p < 0.01). Percent time with trunk inclination angles greater than 60° was also reduced (40.0% versus 4.7%, p < 0.01). In general, the alternate system resulted in less desirable upper trapezius muscle activity levels. The alternate system appears to be effective in reducing exposure t... Applied Ergonomics journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4386562 Tue, 21 Dec 2010 00:00:00 +0100 4386562 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4386561&cid=s_34393_48_f&fid=34393&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov%2Fentrez%2Fquery.fcgi%3Ftmpl%3DNoSidebarfile%26db%3DPubMed%26cmd%3DRetrieve%26list_uids%3D21183156%26dopt%3DAbstract Authors: Samani A, Fernández-Carnero J, Arendt-Nielsen L, Madeleine P We investigated the interactive effects of shoulder pain and wrist extensor muscle soreness on surface electromyography (EMG) during computer mouse work. On day one, subjects (N = 12) performed computer work with/without acute muscle pain induced in the trapezius muscle. Subsequently, eccentric exercise was performed to induce delayed onset muscle soreness (DOMS) in wrist extensor muscles. In presence of DOMS on day two, computer work recordings with/without pain were repeated. EMG signals were recorded from the descending part of trapezius bilaterally, flexor carpi ulnaris and extensor carpi radialis brevis. Experimental muscle pain in trapezius led to a decrease in the muscular activity of the wrist extensor (P... Applied Ergonomics journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4386561 Tue, 21 Dec 2010 00:00:00 +0100 4386561 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4386563&cid=s_34393_48_f&fid=34393&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov%2Fentrez%2Fquery.fcgi%3Ftmpl%3DNoSidebarfile%26db%3DPubMed%26cmd%3DRetrieve%26list_uids%3D21172694%26dopt%3DAbstract This study aimed to investigate whether different personality variables were associated with shift work tolerance, and whether these potential associations were moderated by various types of shift work. The sample comprised 1505 nurses who worked either two or three rotating shifts. Personality traits were measured in terms of morningness, flexibility, languidity and hardiness. Morningness reflects the tendency to be alert relatively early in the morning and sleepy relatively early in the evening. Flexibility denotes the ability to both work and sleep at odd times of the day, while languidity concerns the tendency to become tired/sleepy when cutting down on sleep. Hardiness relates to resilience to stressful life events. The dependent variables in this study comprised of measures of insomn... Applied Ergonomics journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4386563 Sat, 18 Dec 2010 00:00:00 +0100 4386563 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4386564&cid=s_34393_48_f&fid=34393&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov%2Fentrez%2Fquery.fcgi%3Ftmpl%3DNoSidebarfile%26db%3DPubMed%26cmd%3DRetrieve%26list_uids%3D21168827%26dopt%3DAbstract Authors: Phipps DL, Meakin GH, Beatty PC While hierarchical task analysis (HTA) is well established as a general task analysis method, there appears a need to make more explicit both the cognitive elements of a task and design requirements that arise from an analysis. One way of achieving this is to make use of extensions to the standard HTA. The aim of the current study is to evaluate the use of two such extensions - the sub-goal template (SGT) and the skills-rules-knowledge (SRK) framework - to analyse the cognitive activity that takes place during the planning and delivery of anaesthesia. In quantitative terms, the two methods were found to have relatively poor inter-rater reliability; however, qualitative evidence suggests that the two methods were nevertheless of value in generati... Applied Ergonomics journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4386564 Fri, 17 Dec 2010 00:00:00 +0100 4386564 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4266511&cid=s_34393_48_f&fid=34393&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov%2Fentrez%2Fquery.fcgi%3Ftmpl%3DNoSidebarfile%26db%3DPubMed%26cmd%3DRetrieve%26list_uids%3D21163463%26dopt%3DAbstract This study demonstrated that vehicle rotation shows promise for reducing exposure to risk factors for MDS during automobile assembly tasks. PMID: 21163463 [PubMed - as supplied by publisher] (Source: Applied Ergonomics) Applied Ergonomics journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4266511 Tue, 14 Dec 2010 00:00:00 +0100 4266511 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4266510&cid=s_34393_48_f&fid=34393&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov%2Fentrez%2Fquery.fcgi%3Ftmpl%3DNoSidebarfile%26db%3DPubMed%26cmd%3DRetrieve%26list_uids%3D21163464%26dopt%3DAbstract Authors: Bridger RS, Brasher K, Dew A, Kilminster S Sixty one percent of respondents to a questionnaire survey of occupational stress (Phase I) returned follow-up questionnaires twelve months later (Phase II). The Phase I questionnaire measured psychological strain resulting from exposure to occupational stressors, and measured the presence of stress buffers and demographic, psychological and lifestyle-related confounding factors, including age, rank and gender, mood state and the occurrence of stressful life events outside of work. The prevalence of strain was 31% at Phase I and 33% at Phase II. Fifty percent of personnel had no strain on either occasion, 15% had strain on both occasions and the remainder had strain on one occasion. The main stressor associated with strain at Phase I ... Applied Ergonomics journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4266510 Tue, 14 Dec 2010 00:00:00 +0100 4266510 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4242057&cid=s_34393_48_f&fid=34393&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov%2Fentrez%2Fquery.fcgi%3Ftmpl%3DNoSidebarfile%26db%3DPubMed%26cmd%3DRetrieve%26list_uids%3D21122831%26dopt%3DAbstract Authors: Stanton NA, Salmon PM PMID: 21122831 [PubMed - as supplied by publisher] (Source: Applied Ergonomics) Applied Ergonomics journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4242057 Tue, 30 Nov 2010 00:00:00 +0100 4242057 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4242058&cid=s_34393_48_f&fid=34393&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov%2Fentrez%2Fquery.fcgi%3Ftmpl%3DNoSidebarfile%26db%3DPubMed%26cmd%3DRetrieve%26list_uids%3D21122830%26dopt%3DAbstract Authors: Sun DJ, Elefteriadou L As lane-changing behavior has received increasing attention during the recent years, various algorithms have been developed. However, most of these models were derived and validated using data such as vehicle trajectories, with no consideration of driver characteristics. In this research, focus group studies were conducted to obtain driver-related information so that the driver characteristics can be incorporated into lane-changing models. Different urban lane-changing scenarios were examined and discussed in the focus group meetings. The likelihood for initiating lane changes under each scenario was obtained. The participating drivers were categorized according to their background information and verbal responses, so that the lane-changing behavior can ... Applied Ergonomics journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4242058 Mon, 29 Nov 2010 00:00:00 +0100 4242058 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4179678&cid=s_34393_48_f&fid=34393&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov%2Fentrez%2Fquery.fcgi%3Ftmpl%3DNoSidebarfile%26db%3DPubMed%26cmd%3DRetrieve%26list_uids%3D21074141%26dopt%3DAbstract Authors: Broström R, Bengtsson P, Axelsson J With the functional revolution in modern cars, evaluation methods to be used in all phases of driver-car interaction design have gained importance. It is crucial for car manufacturers to discover and solve safety issues early in the interaction design process. A current problem is thus to find a correlation between the formative methods that are used during development and the summative methods that are used when the product has reached the customer. This paper investigates the correlation between efficiency metrics from summative and formative evaluations, where the results of two studies on sound and navigation system tasks are compared. The first, an analysis of the J.D. Power and Associates APEAL survey, consists of answers given by abo... Applied Ergonomics journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4179678 Wed, 10 Nov 2010 00:00:00 +0100 4179678 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4163467&cid=s_34393_48_f&fid=34393&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov%2Fentrez%2Fquery.fcgi%3Ftmpl%3DNoSidebarfile%26db%3DPubMed%26cmd%3DRetrieve%26list_uids%3D21071015%26dopt%3DAbstract Authors: Simeonov P, Hsiao H, Powers J, Ammons D, Kau T, Amendola A The risk of falls from height on a construction site increases under conditions which degrade workers' postural control. At elevation, workers depend heavily on sensory information from their feet to maintain balance. The study tested two hypotheses: "sensory enhancement" - sub-sensory (undetectable) random mechanical vibrations at the plantar surface of the feet can improve worker's balance at elevation; and "sensory suppression" - supra-sensory (detectable) random mechanical vibrations can have a degrading effect on balance in the same experimental settings. Six young (age 20-35) and six aging (age 45-60) construction workers were tested while standing in standard and semi-tandem postures on instrumented gel insoles.... Applied Ergonomics journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4163467 Tue, 09 Nov 2010 00:00:00 +0100 4163467 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4163468&cid=s_34393_48_f&fid=34393&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov%2Fentrez%2Fquery.fcgi%3Ftmpl%3DNoSidebarfile%26db%3DPubMed%26cmd%3DRetrieve%26list_uids%3D21055725%26dopt%3DAbstract This study examined errors introduced by a posture matching approach (3DMatch) relative to dynamic three-dimensional rigid link and EMG-assisted models. Eighty-eight lifting trials of various combinations of heights (floor, 0.67, 1.2 m), asymmetry (left, right and center) and mass (7.6 and 9.7 kg) were videotaped while spine postures, ground reaction forces, segment orientations and muscle activations were documented and used to estimate joint moments and forces (L5/S1). Posture matching over predicted peak and cumulative extension moment (p < 0.0001 for all variables). There was no difference between peak compression estimates obtained with posture matching or EMG-assisted approaches (p = 0.7987). Posture matching over predicted cumulative (p < 0.0001) compressive loading du... Applied Ergonomics journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4163468 Thu, 04 Nov 2010 00:00:00 +0100 4163468 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4134477&cid=s_34393_48_f&fid=34393&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov%2Fentrez%2Fquery.fcgi%3Ftmpl%3DNoSidebarfile%26db%3DPubMed%26cmd%3DRetrieve%26list_uids%3D21036347%26dopt%3DAbstract Authors: Harvey C, Stanton NA, Pickering CA, McDonald M, Zheng P Usability must be defined specifically for the context of use of the particular system under investigation. This specific context of use should also be used to guide the definition of specific usability criteria and the selection of appropriate evaluation methods. There are four principles which can guide the selection of evaluation methods, relating to the information required in the evaluation, the stage at which to apply methods, the resources required and the people involved in the evaluation. This paper presents a framework for the evaluation of usability in the context of In-Vehicle Information Systems (IVISs). This framework guides designers through defining usability criteria for an evaluation, selecting appropri... Applied Ergonomics journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4134477 Fri, 29 Oct 2010 00:00:00 +0100 4134477 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4134478&cid=s_34393_48_f&fid=34393&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov%2Fentrez%2Fquery.fcgi%3Ftmpl%3DNoSidebarfile%26db%3DPubMed%26cmd%3DRetrieve%26list_uids%3D21035107%26dopt%3DAbstract Authors: Vergara M, Mondragón S, Sancho-Bru JL, Company P, Agost MJ The aim of this work is to determine the influence of multisensory (visual-haptic) integration and the level of interaction (seeing photographs, seeing the actual product, touching it and using it) on the perception of products, including perceived ergonomics. The product selected for the experiment was the hammer, as this will help to establish whether emotional design studies can also apply to 'commercial' products. Subjective opinions of users were evaluated through semantic differential tests. A factor analysis identified six semantic factors or axes (Quality/Robustness, Ergonomics/Appearance, Innovation, Lightness, Dynamic Effects, and Efficacy). Results show that Lightness and Dynamic Effects are quite sensitive... Applied Ergonomics journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4134478 Wed, 27 Oct 2010 00:00:00 +0100 4134478 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4106385&cid=s_34393_48_f&fid=34393&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov%2Fentrez%2Fquery.fcgi%3Ftmpl%3DNoSidebarfile%26db%3DPubMed%26cmd%3DRetrieve%26list_uids%3D20965495%26dopt%3DAbstract The objective was to evaluate changes after a two half-day patient transfer course regarding nursing staff's movement and body awareness, attitudes, reported behaviour, strain, disorder and sick leave. The course aimed at increasing staff's self-awareness of movements and body, and their communication competence, with the intention to promote the patient's independent mobility. Ninety-nine staff in an intervention group and 77 staff in two control groups answered a questionnaire before and after the intervention. After one year there was a significant increase in the number of instructions given and nursing staff's movement awareness in the intervention group compared to the control group. Reported physical disorders decreased significantly in the intervention group compared with both cont... Applied Ergonomics journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4106385 Mon, 18 Oct 2010 23:00:00 +0100 4106385 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4106386&cid=s_34393_48_f&fid=34393&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov%2Fentrez%2Fquery.fcgi%3Ftmpl%3DNoSidebarfile%26db%3DPubMed%26cmd%3DRetrieve%26list_uids%3D20961531%26dopt%3DAbstract This study considered only four product attributes among so many due to the constraints of the research design employed. Attributes related to aesthetic perception of a product enhance apparent usability such as those related to dimensional ratios. PMID: 20961531 [PubMed - as supplied by publisher] (Source: Applied Ergonomics) Applied Ergonomics journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4106386 Sun, 17 Oct 2010 23:00:00 +0100 4106386 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4106387&cid=s_34393_48_f&fid=34393&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov%2Fentrez%2Fquery.fcgi%3Ftmpl%3DNoSidebarfile%26db%3DPubMed%26cmd%3DRetrieve%26list_uids%3D20951368%26dopt%3DAbstract This study attempted to explore reasons for negative emotions associated with product use by probing into the embarrassing emotions aroused in a product-use situation. The results showed that the embarrassment associated with product use was caused by two constructs: losing control of the product and inappropriate operation. Both of the two constructs have impacts on embarrassing emotions; however, the structural model showed that for the embarrassment associated with product use, inappropriate operation stands out as a more significant construct than losing control of the product. Users tended to blame themselves for the embarrassing situation, believing that the embarrassment was a result of their improper use of the product or carelessness. PMID: 20951368 [PubMed - as supplied by pu... Applied Ergonomics journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4106387 Wed, 13 Oct 2010 23:00:00 +0100 4106387 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4106388&cid=s_34393_48_f&fid=34393&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov%2Fentrez%2Fquery.fcgi%3Ftmpl%3DNoSidebarfile%26db%3DPubMed%26cmd%3DRetrieve%26list_uids%3D20950792%26dopt%3DAbstract CONCLUSION: Less attention attractive visual properties of hazardous cross traffic attributed to mutual approaching course can cause recognition failure. Drivers' gaze shift to potential conflicting direction, either reflective or voluntary manner, is crucially important for preventing crossing path crashes at such as rural intersections. PMID: 20950792 [PubMed - as supplied by publisher] (Source: Applied Ergonomics) Applied Ergonomics journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4106388 Tue, 12 Oct 2010 23:00:00 +0100 4106388 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4074881&cid=s_34393_48_f&fid=34393&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov%2Fentrez%2Fquery.fcgi%3Ftmpl%3DNoSidebarfile%26db%3DPubMed%26cmd%3DRetrieve%26list_uids%3D20947061%26dopt%3DAbstract Authors: Broberg O, Andersen V, Seim R The aim of this paper is to introduce the concept of boundary objects in order to better understand the role of objects in participatory ergonomics (PE) design processes. The research question is: What characterizes boundary objects in PE processes? Based on two case studies, we identify eight characteristics of boundary objects and their use, which make them particularly useful in PE design processes. These characteristics go beyond the object itself and extend into the context of their use. We argue that the selection of boundary objects in PE processes is of great importance, since different objects enable workers' participation and collaborative design in different ways. The framework developed may serve to provide criteria to guide practition... Applied Ergonomics journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4074881 Mon, 11 Oct 2010 23:00:00 +0100 4074881 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4074880&cid=s_34393_48_f&fid=34393&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov%2Fentrez%2Fquery.fcgi%3Ftmpl%3DNoSidebarfile%26db%3DPubMed%26cmd%3DRetrieve%26list_uids%3D20947062%26dopt%3DAbstract Authors: Kouchi M, Mochimaru M Body dimensions are based on landmarks of the body, but the magnitude of error in landmark determination is not well known. Therefore, a study was performed in which 40 subjects were marked five times in total by one highly skilled marker and a novice marker. Immediately after marking, a skilled measurer determined 34 body dimensions that were based on the mark locations. Intra- and inter-observer errors in landmarking of 35 landmarks, as well as those in 34 body dimensions were quantified. The error in landmarking was defined as the distance between two marks made on the same landmark by the same marker (intra-observer error) or by two different markers (inter-observer error). To make the first mark invisible when the second mark was made, the first mark... Applied Ergonomics journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4074880 Mon, 11 Oct 2010 23:00:00 +0100 4074880