Computer Workstation Research Articles

Modelling of local mechanical failures in solid oxide cell stacks

Solid oxide cells can deliver highly efficient energy conversions between electricity and fuels/chemicals. A central challenge of upscaling solid oxide cells is the probability of failure of the brittle ceramic components. The failures of the ceramic components may lead to significant degradation or eventual failure of a stack. To predict mechanical failures in a stack, a full stack model is needed, together with a local assessment of stresses at the vicinity of failing regions, e.g. the contact points between the cells and interconnects. A conventional three-dimensional model requires a very fine discretization of the mesh to capture stress intensities. Computational resources needed for such a model are therefore immense, and it is highly unlikely to compute at stack scale, as well describe the evolution over time. In this work, the homogenization modelling framework for solid oxide cell stacks is extended to identify local mechanical failures. Thus, the fracturing within a local failing point is examined by using a localization approach, where stresses in the stack model are linked to the local stresses and the energy release rate at the crack tip of the relevant interface. This is done in a general manner, such that the local stresses and the energy release rate can be evaluated at every point in the stack at every instant of time without loss of computational efficiency. A 100-cell stack can be modelled in three dimensions with all coupled multiphysics in steady state within 3 min on a current workstation computer.

Computer ergonomics related health problems of Library staff: a case study at the University of Colombo

This paper discusses computer ergonomics related health problems caused by prolonged use of computers in the library staff of the University of Colombo. The heterogeneous population, 60 in total consisted of academic staff, administrative officers and paraprofessional staff including Senior Staff Assistants, Staff Assistants, Management Assistants and Library Information Assistants. A stratified random sampling technique was used to draw the sample (52). A questionnaire was administered to collect data. Data were analysed with descriptive statistics and correlation test using SPSS version 23. It revealed that neck pain was the major (63.8%) musculoskeletal discomfort experienced by the respondents after prolonged period of computer usage followed by shoulder pain (59.6%) and pain in the wrist (53.2%). Pain in the eye (76.6%) was the most persistent visual discomfort experienced by the respondents followed by headaches (72.3%). Major stress-related problem was sleepiness (51.1%) while loss of concentration was identified as the prominent discomfort related to fatigue (27.7%). Prevalence of musculoskeletal discomforts such as pain in the neck and lower arm showed a positive correlation with the height of computer table (r = 0.447, P=0.002 and r = 0.403, P=0.005 respectively), while shoulder pain indicated a weak negative correlation with wrist support (r = -0.317, P=0.03). Data on prevalence of lower arm pain depicted a weak positive correlation with height and distance of the keyboard (r = 0.384, P=0.008) and computer desk height (r = 0.403, P=0.005). As for visual discomfort symptoms developing double vision had a weak positive correlation with glare (r =0.315, P=0.031) and a weak negative correlation with lighting in the workstation (r=- 0.291, P=0.046). Headaches due to extended use of computers showed a significant relationship with view distance (P=0.003) and task breaking (P=0.033). To avoid visual discomforts ergonomic requirement at the computer workstation should be proper lighting, anti-glare filters, and ergonomic positioning of computer monitor and regular work breaks. To reduce health problems, library management should organize workstation ergonomic training sessions to gain knowledge and skills required to optimize the workstation configuration, and provide ergonomically safe working equipment.

Barriers to physical distancing among healthcare workers on an academic hospital unit during the coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic.

Physical distancing among healthcare workers (HCWs) is an essential strategy in preventing HCW-to-HCWs transmission of severe acute respiratory coronavirus virus 2 (SARS-CoV-2). To understand barriers to physical distancing among HCWs on an inpatient unit and identify strategies for improvement. Qualitative study including observations and semistructured interviews conducted over 3 months. A non-COVID-19 adult general medical unit in an academic tertiary-care hospital. HCWs based on the unit. We performed a qualitative study in which we (1) observed HCW activities and proximity to each other on the unit during weekday shifts July-October 2020 and (2) conducted semi-structured interviews of HCWs to understand their experiences with and perspectives of physical distancing in the hospital. Qualitative data were coded based on a human-factors engineering model. We completed 25 hours of observations and 20 HCW interviews. High-risk interactions often occurred during handoffs of care at shift changes and patient rounds, when HCWs gathered regularly in close proximity for at least 15 minutes. Identified barriers included spacing and availability of computers, the need to communicate confidential patient information, and the desire to maintain relationships at work. Physical distancing can be improved in hospitals by restructuring computer workstations, work rooms, and break rooms; applying visible cognitive aids; adapting shift times; and supporting rounds and meetings with virtual conferencing. Additional strategies to promote staff adherence to physical distancing include rewarding positive behaviors, having peer leaders model physical distancing, and encouraging additional safe avenues for social connection at a safe distance.

Computer vision syndrome and its associated ergonomic factors among bank workers

Objectives. This study aimed to describe the prevalence of ergonomic factors associated with computer vision syndrome (CVS), and knowledge and practices of computer usage among bank workers in the Cape Coast Metropolis, Ghana. Methods. A comprehensive eye examination was performed for 139 bankers in the Cape Coast Metropolis. Measurements of ergonomic practices at workstations were carried out and self-administered questionnaires were used to collect socio-demographic data, symptoms of CVS and associated factors as well as knowledge, attitudes and practices of the bankers on CVS. Descriptive statistics and logistic regression were carried out to compute the different proportions and relevant associations. Results. Headaches (73.4%), eyestrain (65.5%) and itching (63.3%) were the most common reported symptoms. The prevalence of CVS in the study population was 71.2% with a high level of poor ergonomic practices (78.4%) at computer workstations. With regard to knowledge, attitudes and practices of the participants on CVS, 68.3% of the participants had low levels of knowledge on CVS, while 90.6% had negative attitudes towards CVS and 46.0% of the participants had poor practices. Conclusion. Bankers had a high prevalence of CVS. Ergonomic practices, females and computer usage were all associated significantly with the presence of CVS.

Computer workstation ergonomics: Current evidence for evaluation, corrections, and recommendations for remote evaluation

Study DesignLiterature Review IntroductionComputer use in the workplace has increased substantially since the start of the information age in the mid-1980s through 2020. Desktops, laptops, and tablets are essential tools for communication and project management. As a result of the COVID-19 pandemic, many workers have transitioned to work from home (WFH) to sustain public health emergency guidelines, and it is anticipated that many WFH jobs will be maintained post-pandemic. The transition to WFH occurred rapidly without time to establish ideal workstations. Ergonomic assessments that were typically performed in person needed to be performed using virtual technology. Purpose of the studyThe purpose of this review is (1) to describe the components of a computer workstation evaluation; (2) to offer suggestions for identifying computer workstation problems that may be contributing to the client's musculoskeletal (MSK) pain and symptoms; (3) to provide suggestions that may improve the safety and comfort at the computer workstation, and (4) to suggest a method of completing the workstation analysis virtually, without onsite in-person evaluation. Methods and ResultsThere is a paucity of peer-reviewed literature regarding computer workstation evaluations to be performed in person, let alone using a virtual method. The components of computer workstation evaluations have been recommended by regulatory agencies that survey injuries in the workplace. Prior to 2020, these evaluations were done in person at the office workstation. Modifications in data collection were needed to transition the analysis to a reliable virtual format. The remote method described provides a consistent approach that engages the client in the process.

Research on Intelligent recognition system of Cotton apical Bud based on Deep Learning

Cotton topping is a key link in the whole cotton production process, which can eliminate the top growth advantage and promote cotton production and income. The automation of cotton topping can greatly reduce the topping time and labor intensity, and the high-speed and accurate identification of cotton top buds is the prerequisite and basis for automatic topping. This article designs a cotton top bud intelligent identification system based on YOLOv3 network, which can detect cotton top buds in visible light images in real time, and provide visual information for the subsequent realization of cotton top bud position measurement and mechanical control. A computer workstation (RTX2070s) was used to identify 15049 cotton top bud images under different weather and illumination conditions. The results show that the average time of single frame image recognition is controlled within 100 milliseconds, and the top bud recognition rate reaches 96%, which creates good conditions for the development of automatic cotton topping equipment and has broad application prospects.

Remote proctoring in neuroradiological interventions

HintergrundEndovaskuläre Verfahren haben einen festen Platz bei der Behandlung von Hirngefäßerkrankungen, z. B. die Thrombektomie beim Schlaganfall. Die ständige Weiterentwicklung der hierbei verwendeten Materialien (z. B. Katheter und Stents) fordert von den behandelnden Ärzten ein permanentes Lernen.FragestellungTechnische Hilfsmöglichkeiten zur Unterstützung bei neuen neuroendovaskulären Verfahren.Material und MethodeIntegration von Streamingtechnologien in das Ausbildungskonzept von Neuroradiologen.ErgebnisseDie Übertragung angiographischer Aufnahmen auf einen entfernten Computerarbeitsplatz in Echtzeit ist mittels spezifischer Streamingtechnologie ortsunabhängig möglich. Hierdurch kann ein neuroendovaskulärer Spezialist geographisch entfernte Interventionalisten bei der Durchführung eines Kathetereingriffes am Gehirn beraten, die Handhabung der verwendeten Materialien überblicken und bei Bedarf anleiten (Remote-Proctoring).SchlussfolgerungenInsbesondere bei Notfalleingriffen und während Reisebeschränkungen kann durch Zuschaltung eines weiteren neuroendovaskulären Spezialisten per Livestreaming die Patientensicherheit erhöht werden.

Digital eye strain: prevalence and associated factors among information technology professionals, Egypt.

Digital eye strain (DES) is a growing occupational and public health problem and one of the most frequent reasons for seeking medical care. The objectives of this study are to identify the prevalence and to study some associated personal, ergonomic, and environmental factors of DES among information technology (IT) professionals at Tanta University, Egypt. An interview questionnaire was used to collect data related to socio-demographic, job, ergonomic and environmental characteristics. Computer vision syndrome questionnaire (CVS-Q) was used for the assessment of DES. It was used to measure ocular and visual symptoms related to computer use. CVS-Q includes 16 symptoms that are scored using two rating scales, one for frequency and the other for intensity. A total of 108 IT professionals were included. Prevalence of DES was 82.41%. The most common symptoms were headache (81.5%), burning of the eye (75.9%), and blurred vision (70.4%). Significant predictors of DES were female gender (OR = 2.845), age ≥ 35years (OR = 1.112), daily computer use more than 6h (OR = 1.351), duration of work more than 10years (OR = 1.793), wearing corrective glasses (OR = 5.009), distance from the monitor less than 20in. (OR = 4.389), not using antiglare screen (OR = 0.214), no brightness adjustment of screen (OR = 0.015), not taking break time during computer work (OR = 0.007), exposure to air pollution (OR = 5.667), use of the air conditioner (OR = 23.021), and exposure to windy environments (OR = 3.588). Prevalence of DES was found to be high among IT professionals. Significant predictors of DES were female gender, older age, wearing eyeglasses, long duration of computer use, unadjusted ergonomic workstation, and dry environment. DES is a problem that can be prevented by increasing knowledge and awareness about DES by providing computer users with eye health education, periodic training on a proper ergonomic computer workstation, and adjustment of the suitable comfortable workplace environment.

Experimental Study on Sampling Theorem in Signal Processing

This practicum is to define the study properties of the sampling theorem. Understand the effect of selecting the sample size and its effect on the signal recovery process. The experiment utilizes a computer or portable workstation to run an examination of the hypothesis reenactment program. From the test information gotten, it can be concluded that the more noteworthy the frequency of the signal to be inspected, the closer the signal will be to the initial signal. The time and frequency of the examining signal are conversely relative. The higher the frequency, the lower the time will be. The magnitude of the amplitude of the output signal is indeterminate.

Performance and application analysis of ANFIS artificial intelligence for pressure prediction of nanofluid convective flow in a heated pipe

Heat transfer augmentation of the nanofluids is still an attractive concept for researchers due to rising demands for designing efficient heat transfer fluids. However, the pressure loss arisen from the suspension of nanoparticles in liquid is known as a drawback for developing such novel fluids. Therefore, prediction of the nanofluid pressure, especially in internal flows, has been focused on studies. Computational fluid dynamics (CFD) is a commonly used approach for such a prediction of fluid flow. The CFD tools are perfect and precise in prediction of the fluid flow parameters. But they might be time-consuming and expensive, especially for complex models such as 3-dimension modeling and turbulent flow. In addition, the CFD could just predict the pressure, and it is disabled for finding the relationship of such variables. This study is intended to show the performance of the artificial intelligence (AI) algorithm as an auxiliary method for cooperation with the CFD. The turbulent flow of Cu/water nanofluid warming up in a pipe is considered as a sample of a physical phenomenon. The AI algorithm learns the CFD results. Then, the relation between the CFD results is discovered by the AI algorithm. For this purpose, the adaptive network-based fuzzy inference system (ANFIS) is adopted as AI tool. The intelligence condition of the ANFIS is checked by benchmarking the CFD results. The paper outcomes indicated that the ANFIS intelligence is met by employing gauss2mf in the model as the membership function and x, y, and z coordinates, the nanoparticle volume fraction, and the temperature as the inputs. The pressure predicted by the ANFIS at this condition is the same as that predicted by the CFD. The artificial intelligence of ANFIS could find the relation of the nanofluid pressure to the nanoparticle fraction and the temperature. The CFD simulation took much more time (90–110 min) than the total time of the learning and the prediction of the ANFIS (369 s). The CFD modeling was done on a workstation computer, while the ANFIS method was run on a normal desktop.

Impact of Prolonged Sitting on Well-being and Productivity among Computer Workstation Users: Ergonomic Study

A computer workstation/workplace is one where the majority of work is accomplished by using a computer, keeping a record in hard and soft copy and communicating over the telephone. Most computer workstation is sedentary in nature and often include prolonged sitting without break. Computer workstation often involves sitting for long hours to get the jobs done. Studies have shown that prolonged seating in the workplace leads to musculoskeletal discomforts, increased risks of cardiovascular diseases and overweight. In present study, a questionnaire-based self-feedbacks survey was undertaken so as to study the various relationship of prolonged sitting and computer workstation setups with regards to overweight, the prevalence of musculoskeletal disorders and perceived comforts levels and productivity of workers. Data were then analyzed using IBM SPSS (version 22). It was found that prolonged sitting time has significant impacts on overweight, lower levels of comforts and productivity among workers. There is also a significantly high prevalence of Musculoskeletal discomforts among workers who are subjected to prolonged seating working hours. The result shows that different workstation setup affects different parts of the user body. It is recommended that a flexible sit-stand table should be adopted to reduce negative impacts.

Gradual and Uniform Transformation of Species by Micro Evaluation

Cranial dimensions and cranial indices are considered as simplest and most efficient way to indicate facial differences and age variations. Cranial morphology and dimensions are used to evaluate various aspects of growth and development thus helping in population differentiation. The aim of the study is to investigate the craniometric patterns in the Nigerian population based on three dimensional computed tomographic data, with the objectives of determining the age of individuals in the eastern part of Nigeria as well as determining if the skull of individual varies with age using computed tomography. Methodology involves a descriptive study design with age determined using standard ageing techniques. 150 dry adult human skulls cases (male and female both) constituted the material for the present study between age group of 25 - 60 years. Data were scanned in the radiology department and the CT data were processed in a computer workstation at the department. The CT scan acquisition was performed with 1.5 mm slice thickness and reconstruction was done with 1.0m 2m slice thickness. All the CT data were recorded using DICOM 3.0 as a medical image file format into CD-ROM.

Craniometry Patterns of Nigerians and its Correlation with Chronological age

Cranial dimensions and cranial indices are considered as simplest and most efficient way to indicate facial differences and age variations. Cranial morphology and dimensions are used to evaluate various aspects of growth and development thus helping in population differentiation. Aim: the study is to investigate the craniometrical patterns in the Nigerian population based on three dimensional computed tomographic data, with the objectives of determining the age of individuals in the eastern part of Nigeria as well as determining if the skull of individual varies with age using computed tomography. Methodology: involves a descriptive study design with age determined using standard ageing techniques. 150 dry adult human skulls cases (male and female both) constituted the material for the present study between age group of 25-60 years. Data were scanned in the radiology department and the CT data were processed in a computer workstation at the department. The CT scan acquisition was performed with 1.5mm slice thickness and reconstruction was done with 1.0 m 2 m slice thickness. All the CT data were recorded using DICOM 3.0 as a medical image file format into CD-ROM. The segmentation techniques were used to identify the region of interest of the computed tomography image based on Hounsfield unit. The selected region was calculated into 3-D modem based on the traditional definition with the modification into 3D model. The anatomical landmarks in craniometrics study were: Glabella (GL), Bregma (BR), Opisthocranium (OPC), Nasion (NA), Basion (BA). The measurements were interpreted using statistical analysis and reported in form of comparism of the mean values and mean difference, standard deviation, and confidence interval in respect to the various landmarks. Analysis of variance was utilized with p-value 0.005 alpha level of significant. Result: the total number of sample for each landmark group is 1050 which covers the range value of 6 with a minimum number 1 and maximum number 7. The total sum of all Landmarks d is 4,200. The mean statistics of the seven groups is 4.00 with standard error of 0.62. The total number of length is 1050 with range of 119. The length attracts the minimum and maximum value of 80 and 199 with total sum of 132282. The mean statistics is 125.98 with standard error of 0.740.

Working from home: Self-assessment computer workstation set-up

ABSTRACT The purpose of this study was to help employees and computer users who have recently transitioned to working from home self-evaluate setting up computer workspace at home and provide some recommended actions about adjusting workstation set-up and tips on changes can be made to be more ergonomically correct. Participants filled an online survey and were then provided with the ‘Computer Workstation Set-up: Self-Assessment Checklist’. A brief follow-up satisfaction survey was sent to all participants. A total of 146 employees and computer users from different countries participated in this study and filled the online survey. Participants were satisfied and reported that the Computer Workstation Set-up: Self-Assessment Checklist is a useful tool. It has helped maintain comfort, well-being, safety, and maximised performance, and included useful tips related to key computer workstation areas, such as the chair, the keyboard and mouse, the monitor, the computer table, and the work surface size and lighting.

Geospatial meteorological and climatic data services application programming interface

At present, it becomes necessary to develop software for Earth science data repositories instead of downloading data to computational servers and workstations. This is especially important taking into account the upcoming volume of big environmental datasets. WPS (Web Processing Service) is an OGC standard for distributed geospatial data processing services. The WPS services provide access to geospatial data processing packages including statistical processing software tools. The main goal of this paper is to present an approach that provides a unified access to the web processing services developed for climate and meteorological research based on the latest technological and scientific achievements. Based on the “OGC API-Processes” standard, a Web API Climate is proposed to provide a uniform access to the “Climate” platform (http://climate.scert.ru/climate/environment/v3.0a-demo/) geospatial services. The Climate Web API provides a software basis for an advanced development and use of the “Climate” platform web processing services aiming at climate change studies at regional and global levels. A correct implementation of the specification will form a solid foundation for further development of desktop client applications in the form of GIS plugins, as well as universal Web-GIS clients easily embedded into thematic virtual research environments.

Redesign of computer workstation using ergonomics

Today’s world is mostly occupied on computers, for which the workstation must be more comfortable to the operators. The objective of this paper is to develop a new design of a computer workstation (upright position) for preventing health risks associated with conventional workstations. The redesigned workstation incorporating ergonomics enhances the motivation, performance and productivity of the operator without affecting health. The vital requirements of computer workstation specified in various literature as per the standards for providing comfort to users is briefly presented. In addition, the product must be manufactured at less cost. To accomplish this design for manufacture and assembly (DFMA) principles are employed. Finally, the integrity of the redesigned workstation is analysed using simulation software.

HFES Technical Standards Update

HFES oversees or touches on a variety of ergonomics and human factors standards activities including standards developed within HFES (e.g. HFES 100) and standards work outside of HFES such as ANSI, ISO and ACGIH. This session is intended to update HFES members on the standards work that HFES is involved. This year the emphasis will be on specific new standards work on topical areas. Included will be a discussion of a suggested interpretation strategy for the outcome metrics of the Revised NIOSH Lift Equation (RNLE) that came out of work on the revision of the ISO 11228 Part 1 on Lifting, Lowering and carrying, the status of the HFES 100 Human Factors Engineering of Computer Workstations standard and the latest work on the ACGIH Ergonomics standards and on a proposed ANSI standard on Human Readiness Levels.

Stereotactic Biopsy in The Diagnosis of Small Brain Lesion

Background: Stereotactic neurosurgery involves mapping the brain in a three-dimensional coordinate system. With the help of MRI and CT scans and 3D computer workstations, neurosurgeons are able to accurately target any area of the brain especially deep seated and brain stem.
 Objectives: Stereotactic brain biopsy is a minimally invasive procedure that uses this technology to obtain samples of brain tissue for diagnostic purpose of multiple brain disorder where start to any medication was impossible or no response to any medical management for long term.
 Materials and Methods: Twenty-five patients underwent stereotactic biopsy of brain lesions using“KOMAI” Stereotactic frame system and were enrolled.
 Results: Of the 25 cases, positive tissue biopsy was found in 20 cases. In 5 patients, biopsy showed gliotic brain tissue or normal brain tissue. There was no post-operative new deficits or mortality seen.
 Conclusion: Stereotaxy is minimally invasive procedure having no complication. So, before starting any medication blindly stereotactic tissue diagnosis can help a lot in many medical and surgical diseases.
 J Bangladesh Coll Phys Surg 2021; 39(1): 24-35

ARmedViewer, an augmented-reality-based fast 3D reslicer for medical image data on mobile devices: A feasibility study

Background and objective: Medical images obtained by methods such as magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) or computed tomography (CT) are typically displayed as a stack of 2D slices, comprising a 3D volume. Often, the anatomy of interest does not fall neatly into the slice plane but rather extends obliquely through several slices. Reformatting the data to show the anatomy in one slice in conventional medical imaging software can require expertise and time. In this work, we present ARmedViewer, a medical image viewing app designed for mobile devices that uses augmented reality technology to display medical image data. An arbitrary plane for displaying the data can be chosen quickly and intuitively by moving the mobile device.Methods: The app ARmedViewer, compiled for an iOS device, was designed to allow a user to easily select from a list of 3D image datasets consisting of header information and image data. The user decides where to place the data, which can be overlaid on actual human anatomy. After loading the dataset, the user can move and rotate the data as desired. 15 users compared the user experience of the app to a common image viewer by answering two user surveys each, one custom and one standardized. The utility of the app was also tested by having two users find a plane through a 3D dataset that displayed 3 randomly placed lesions. This operation was timed and compared between the app and a standard medical image viewer.Results: ARmedViewer was successfully developed and run on an iPhone XS. User interfaces for selecting, placing, moving, reslicing, and displaying the data were operated with ease, even by naïve users. The custom user survey indicated that freely selecting a slice through the data was significantly more intuitive and easier using the app than using a conventional image viewer on a computer workstation, and changing the viewing angle was also significantly more intuitive. The standardized survey indicated a significantly better user experience for the app in several categories, and never significantly worse. The timed reslicing experiments demonstrated the app being faster than the standard image viewer by an average factor of 9.Conclusions: The newly developed ARmedViewer is a portable software tool for easily displaying 3D medical image data overlaid on human anatomy, allowing for easy choice of the viewing plane by intuitively moving the mobile device.

Visual racism in internet searches and dermatology textbooks

Visual racism in internet searches and dermatology textbooks