Subjective Ratings Of Comfort Research Articles

Mass Customization of Foot Orthoses for Rheumatoid Arthritis Using Selective Laser Sintering

Rheumatoid arthritis is an inflammatory joint disease that can lead to pain, stiffness, and deformity, often with marked involvement of the small joints of the foot and ankle. Orthotic devices are commonly prescribed for this condition to lessen symptoms and improve function and mobility, and customized devices are most effective. The work reported in this paper has examined the feasibility of using an additive manufacturing-based approach to manufacture customized orthoses. In order to test feasibility, orthoses have been manufactured using the additive manufacturing technology of selective laser sintering, and have been evaluated through a small-scale patient trial (n = 7). The trial indicated that these orthoses performed as well as the patients' current prescribed customized devices in terms of the observed gait and subjective evaluation of fit and comfort. It is concluded that the feasibility of the additive manufacturing approach has been demonstrated, and further development of a mass customization system to deliver orthoses, together with exploitation of the design freedom offered by the manufacturing method, will give the overall approach significant clinical potential.

Clinical performance of different care systems with silicone hydrogel contact lenses

To assess the clinical and subjective performance of a one-step hydrogen peroxide (H2O2) lens care system compared to a multi-purpose disinfecting system (MPDS) when used with silicone hydrogel (SiH) lenses. This was an eight-week, contralateral (lens type) clinical trial with a randomized, cross-over (care system) design. The H2O2 system was Clear Care ((AO Sept Plus) CIBA VISION) and the MPDS was OPTI-FREE RepleniSH (Alcon) and the SiH materials were lotrafilcon B (Air Optix; CIBA VISION) and senofilcon A (Acuvue OASYS, Johnson & Johnson Vision Care). Investigators and subjects were masked to lens care and lens type, respectively. Clinical variables and ocular health assessments were conducted at a baseline, two-week and four-week visit for each cross-over phase. Comfort, dryness and vision were rated on 0-100 scales. Wearing times and comfortable wearing times were also recorded. Twenty-six subjects were enrolled: nine male, 17 female, mean age (+/-standard deviation) 31+/-12 years (range 17-59 years) and 24 subjects completed the study. Clinical variables showed no difference between solutions (all p > 0.05), however one subject exhibited solution-induced corneal staining with both lens materials and the MPDS. There was no difference between solutions in subjective overall ratings of comfort, dryness or vision (p > 0.05). The H2O2 resulted in longer reported comfortable wearing times than the MPDS (10.93 +/- 1.71 vs 9.84 +/- 1.47 h; repeated measures ANOVA, p < 0.01). While both lens care systems performed well with the SiH lenses used, the H2O2 resulted in a longer reported comfortable wearing time then the MPDS.

Handle grip span for optimising finger-specific force capability as a function of hand size

Five grip spans (45 to 65 mm) were tested to evaluate the effects of handle grip span and user's hand size on maximum grip strength, individual finger force and subjective ratings of comfort using a computerised digital dynamometer with independent finger force sensors. Forty-six males participated and were assigned into three hand size groups (small, medium, large) according to their hands' length. In general, results showed the 55- and 50-mm grip spans were rated as the most comfortable sizes and showed the largest grip strength (433.6 N and 430.8 N, respectively), whereas the 65-mm grip span handle was rated as the least comfortable size and the least grip strength. With regard to the interaction effect of grip span and hand size, small and medium-hand participants rated the best preference for the 50- to 55-mm grip spans and the least for the 65-mm grip span, whereas large-hand participants rated the 55- to 60-mm grip spans as the most preferred and the 45-mm grip span as the least preferred. Normalised grip span (NGS) ratios (29% and 27%) are the ratios of user's hand length to handle grip span. The NGS ratios were obtained and applied for suggesting handle grip spans in order to maximise subjective comfort as well as gripping force according to the users' hand sizes. In the analysis of individual finger force, the middle finger force showed the highest contribution (37.5%) to the total finger force, followed by the ring (28.7%), index (20.2%) and little (13.6%) finger. In addition, each finger was observed to have a different optimal grip span for exerting the maximum force, resulting in a bow-contoured shaped handle (the grip span of the handle at the centre is larger than the handle at the end) for two-handle hand tools. Thus, the grip spans for two-handle hand tools may be designed according to the users' hand/finger anthropometrics to maximise subjective ratings and performance based on this study. Results obtained in this study will provide guidelines for hand tool designers and manufacturers for designing grip spans of two-handle tools, which can maximise handle comfort and performance.

Window Anterior Commissure Relaxation Laryngoplasty in the Management of High-Pitched Voice Disorders

To present the success rate of a less invasive modification of Isshiki type III anterior commissure relaxation laryngoplasty technique in patients with high-pitched voice disorders. Prospective case series. KBB Major Private Clinic of Istanbul Surgery Hospital and the University of Yeditepe Hospital. Twenty-one adult patients who believed that their high-pitched voices conflicted with their body image and/or gender identity. Type III thyroplasty for pitch alteration. Comparison of preoperative and postoperative (>6 months) fundamental frequency levels, diplophonia, perception of body image and pitch, and subjective ratings of comfort during vocalization. The patients were mostly male (mean age, 30.5 years). The most frequent cause of high-pitched voice was sulcus vocalis (n = 14), followed by constitutional causes (n = 5), mutational falsetto (n = 1), and severe glottic scarring secondary to childhood diphtheria (n = 1). After surgery, the fundamental frequency dropped significantly from a mean of 213.81 Hz to 149.86 Hz (P < .001), equaling a mean postoperative semitone drop of 6.23. Misperception leading to an abnormal body image was reduced by 86%. Fourteen patients who originally had feelings of tension and fatigue during phonation and vocalization gained comfort postoperatively. Diplophonia with subharmonic signals observed in 11 cases preoperatively was reduced or disappeared in 6 cases. No complications or failures were observed during the follow-up period. Window anterior commissure relaxation laryngoplasty is an efficient, easy, less invasive, and safe procedure in the surgical management of organic and functional high-pitched voice disorders.

Optimizing the Performance of Phase-Change Materials in Personal Protective Clothing Systems

Phase-change materials (PCM) can be used to reduce thermal stress and improve thermal comfort for workers wearing protective clothing. The aim of this study was to investigate the effect of PCM in protective clothing used in simulated work situations. We hypothesized that it would be possible to optimize cooling performance with a design that focuses on careful positioning of PCM, minimizing total insulation and facilitating moisture transport. Thermal stress and thermal comfort were estimated through measurement of body heat production, body temperatures, sweat production, relative humidity in clothing and subjective ratings of thermal comfort, thermal sensitivity and perception of wetness. Experiments were carried out using 2 types of PCM, the crystalline dehydrate of sodium sulphate and microcapsules in fabrics. The results of 1 field and 2 laboratory experimental series were conclusive in that reduced thermal stress and improved thermal comfort were related to the amount and distribution of PCM, reduced sweat production and adequate transport of moisture.

파지 폭과 손 크기에 따른 각 손가락이 총 악력에 미치는 영향 분석

In this study, six grip spans (45㎜~65㎜) were tested to evaluate the effects of handle grip span and user's hand size on maximum grip strength, individual finger force, and subjective ratings of comfort using a digital dynamometer with individual force sensors. Forty-six males were assigned into three hand size groups according to their hand lengths. Results showed that overall 55㎜ and 50㎜ grip spans were the most comfortable sizes and associated with the highest grip strength in the maximum grip force exertions, whereas 65㎜ grip span was rated as the least comfortable size as well as the lowest grip strength. In the interaction effect of grip span and hand size, small and middle hand sized participants rated the best preference and the least preference grip spans differently with large hand sized participants. With respect to the analysis of individual finger force, the middle finger force was the strongest and the highest contribution to the total finger force, followed by ring, index and little fingers. In addition, it was noted that each finger had a different optimal grip span for exerting maximum force resulting in a bowed contoured shaped handle for two-handle hand tools. Thus, the grip spans for two-handle hand tools might be designed according to the users' hand and finger anthropometrics to maximize performance and subjective perception of comfort.

An evaluation of backpack harness systems in non-neutral torso postures

Much of the research on backpack design has been focused on spinal loading/biomechanics while the wearer is in a neutral/upright trunk posture, such as those employed by outdoor enthusiasts and schoolchildren. This research has led to some important harness design improvements that reduce trunk muscle exertions, fatigue and improve overall comfort. There are number of occupations, however, wherein workers wear back-mounted packs/devices (e.g. air tanks) while working in non-neutral trunk postures. The objective of the current study was to evaluate the effects of these non-neutral postures on biomechanical loading and then reconsider the backpack system design recommendations. Fifteen participants were asked to support a 18.2 kg load on their back while assuming static forward flexed postures of the torso (15°, 30°, 45°, and 60° of sagittal bend). The mass on the back was attached to the participant through two different harness mechanisms: a basic harness design (as seen on college student backpacks) and a more advanced design containing lateral stiffness rods and a weight-bearing hip belt (as seen on backpacks for hikers). While performing these static, posture maintenance tasks, the activation levels of the bilateral trapezius, erector spinae, and rectus abdominis were collected. Participants also provided subjective ratings of comfort. The results showed that there was a significant interaction between harness type and forward flexion angle for the trapezius and the erector spinae muscles. The normalized EMG for the trapezius muscles showed a 14% and 11% reduction in muscle activity at 15° and 30°, respectively, with the advanced design but these positive effects of the advanced design were not found at the greater flexion angles. Likewise the erector spinae muscles showed a 24% and 14% reduction in muscle activity at 15° and 30°, respectively, with the advanced design harness but these effects of the advanced design were not found at the greater forward flexion angles. The level of forward flexion angle affected the rectus abdominis muscle activity, but neither the harness type main effect nor the interaction of harness type and forward flexion angle was significant. The subjective survey results agreed with the EMG results and showed the advanced design harness was generally more comfortable with respect to the shoulder and low back areas. Collectively, the subjective and objective results show a significant improvement with the advanced harness system but also note an interesting interaction with degree of sagittal flexion, indicating a diminished effectiveness of the design improvements at forward flexed postures. Design criteria for harness systems in these forward flexed postures are discussed.

Quantitative effects of mattress types (comfortable vs. uncomfortable) on sleep quality through polysomnography and skin temperature

Information concerning the stages of sleep is one of the most important clues for determining the quality of a particular mattress. The purpose of this study was to determine the effects of mattress type on sleep quality by measuring skin temperature, by using a subjective mattress rating system, and through the use of Polysomnogram. Polysomnography involved the recording of brain waves through electroencephalography (EEG) and the generation of a video graphic record of eye movement (EOG), chin movements (EMG) and heart rhythm (ECG). Sixteen subjects were used in this study, which was a test of mattress comfort. Subjects spent 6 days and nights in the laboratory. Data was recorded for a period of 7 h for each of 3 nights. It was found that mean skin temperature, deep sleep (stage III and stage IV), sleep efficiency, wake after sleep onset (WASO), stage 1 and subjective ratings of mattress comfort were significantly affected according to mattress type. When subjects slept on “comfortable” mattresses, mean skin temperature was higher than for “uncomfortable” mattresses. Lower body skin temperature, sleep efficiency and percentage of deep sleep were higher as well. The percentages of WASO and stage 1 were lower when subjects slept on “comfortable” mattresses. Subjective ratings of sleep quality paralleled recorded sleep data.

Human thermoregulatory function during exercise and immersion after 35 days of horizontal bed-rest and recovery

The present study evaluated the effect of 35 days of experimental horizontal bed-rest on exercise and immersion thermoregulatory function. Fifteen healthy male volunteers were assigned to either a Control (n = 5) or Bed-rest (n = 10) group. Thermoregulatory function was evaluated during a 30-min bout of submaximal exercise on a cycle ergometer, followed immediately by a 100-min immersion in 28 degrees C water. For the Bed-rest group, exercise and immersion thermoregulatory responses observed post-bed-rest were compared with those after a 5 week supervised active recovery period. In both trials, the absolute work load during the exercise portion of the test was identical. During the exercise and immersion, we recorded skin temperature, rectal temperature, the difference in temperature between the forearm and third digit of the right hand (DeltaT(forearm-fingertip))--an index of skin blood flow, sweating rate from the forehead, oxygen uptake and heart rate at minute intervals. Subjects provided ratings of temperature perception and thermal comfort at 5-min intervals. Exercise thermoregulatory responses after bed-rest and recovery were similar. Subjective ratings of temperature perception and thermal comfort during immersion indicated that subjects perceived similar combinations of Tsk and Tre to be warmer and thermally less uncomfortable after bed-rest. The average (SD) exercise-induced increase in Tre relative to resting values was not significantly different between the Post-bed-rest (0.4 (0.2) degrees C) and Recovery (0.5 (0.2) degrees C) trials. During the post-exercise immersion, the decrease in Tre, relative to resting values, was significantly (P < 0.05) greater in the Post-bed-rest trial (0.9 (0.5) degrees C) than after recovery (0.4 (0.3) degrees C). DeltaT(forearm-fingertip) was 5.2 (0.9) degrees C and 5.8 (1.0) degrees C at the end of the post-bed-rest and recovery immersions, respectively. The gain of the shivering response (increase in VO(2) relative to the decrease in Tre; VO(2)/Tre) was 1.19 l min(-1) degrees C(-1) in the Recovery trial, and was significantly attenuated to 0.51 l min(-1) degrees C(-1) in the Post-bed-rest trial. The greater cooling rate observed in the post-bed-rest trial is attributed to the greater heat loss and reduced heat production. The former is the result of attenuated cold-induced vasoconstriction and enhanced sweating rate, and the latter a result of a lower shivering VO(2) response.

Optimal cylindrical handle diameter for grip force tasks

This study tested maximum grip force on cylindrical aluminum handles to evaluate the relationships between handle diameter (25–50 mm diameter handles), perceived comfort, finger and phalange force distribution, and electromyographic efficiency of finger flexor and extensor muscle activity. A force glove system containing 16 thin profile force sensors was developed to measure finger and phalangeal forces on the cylindrical handles. Participants (n=24) rated the mid-sized handles (30, 35 and 40 mm) as the most comfortable for maximum grip force exertions. Using a polynomial regression the handle diameter that maximized subjective comfort was calculated as a function of the user's hand length. This optimal handle diameter was 19.7% of the user's hand length. Total finger force capability was inversely related with handle diameter. Electromyographic amplitude of the primary flexor and extensor was unaffected by handle diameter, so the efficiency of the muscle electrical activity followed the same relationship with handle diameter as total finger force. Individual finger and phalange force distributions were examined to evaluate their relationship with perceived comfort. A non-uniform finger/phalange force distribution, in which finger force was proportional to finger muscle capabilities, exhibited a stronger correlation with subjective ratings of comfort than a uniform finger/phalange force distribution. Results obtained in this study will provide guidelines to hand-tool designers and manufacturers for maximizing handle comfort based on the user's hand size.

Clinical performance of ‘no rub’ multi-purpose solutions

This was a multi-site, 231-subject double-masked, bilateral crossover study to evaluate subjective comfort and satisfaction, corneal staining and lens deposits with two ‘no rub’ multi-purpose solutions (MPS) used with FDA Group II (alphafilcon A, SofLens™ 66, Bausch & Lomb) and Group IV (etafilcon A, SUREVUE ®, Johnson & Johnson Vision Care) soft contact lenses. Subjects used each of the two MPS, Regimen 1 (OPTI-FREE ® EXPRESS ® Multi-Purpose Disinfecting Solution No Rub™ Lasting Comfort Formula, Alcon Laboratories) and Regimen 2 (ReNu MultiPlus ® Multi-Purpose Solution, Bausch & Lomb), for 28 days. They wore the same lens type for the duration of the study and were evaluated on days 0, 14 and 28 of each treatment period. Subjective ratings of comfort and satisfaction were significantly different between regimens, with the majority of variables in favour of Regimen 1 ( P<0.05). Corneal staining was significantly greater with the Group II, Regimen 2 combination ( P<0.0001). Group IV lenses cared for with Regimen 1 had significantly less residual lysozyme on Day 28 (562 μg) than lenses cared for with Regimen 2 (1145 μg; P<0.0001). While both products offer the convenience of a ‘no rub’ regimen, differences in performance should be considered when recommending these solutions to patients.

Influence of Fabric Mechanical Property on Clothing Dynamic Pressure Distribution and Pressure Comfort on Tight-Fit Sportswear

Clothing pressure distribution in tight-fit sportswear was simulated by using numerical computational method. Three sets of tight-fit sportswears were simulated on the basis of their mechanical properties. In addition, a 3D human body was also simulated in order to investigate its interaction with sportswear in the wearing process. Result shows that pressure increases significantly around the waist girth until it passes through body pelvis during the wearing process. Meanwhile, pressure begins to increase for other tested body locations. Based on body contour plot, we found that pressure distribution was not uniformly distributed and high-pressure zone was concentrated around the waist girth at the end of the wearing process. The simulated pressure has no significant difference (p > 0.05) with the experimental pressure measurements. Furthermore, subjective pressure comfort rating was linearly correlated with the simulation, suggesting the simulation method can provide reliable prediction in term of pressure comfort. From the tight-fit sportswear manufacturer's point of view, simulation result would help them to satisfy consumers' physiological and psychological needs in term of pressure comfort at a lower cost.

Comparison of 3 bonded lingual appliances by auditive analysis and subjective assessment

The aim of this prospective study was to compare for the first time the influences of lingual appliances of different dimensions on sound performance and oral comfort. The study group comprised 12 subjects (10 women, 2 men; mean age, 33.96 years). Their sound production was recorded by means of a digital audio tape recorder before, 10 minutes after, and 24 hours after placement of the different appliances for semiobjective assessment by 3 blinded speech professionals. This was followed by supplementary subjective ratings of sound performance and oral comfort by the patients. All lingual appliances induced significant impairment in sound performance and oral comfort. However, they varied significantly with respect to the degree of impairment. The smaller the appliance, the less pronounced the impairments it induced. The smallest changes were induced by a bonded canine-to-canine retainer, followed by customized lingual brackets and prefabricated lingual brackets. By using lower-profile customized brackets, the orthodontist can significantly enhance patient comfort and significantly reduce impairments of sound performance in comparison with prefabricated brackets with larger dimensions. Before placing a lingual appliance, however, patients should be briefed on possible effects such as impaired sound production and decreased oral comfort.

Sitting comfort and discomfort and the relationships with objective measures

The concepts of comfort and discomfort in sitting are under debate. There is no widely accepted definition, although it is beyond dispute that comfort and discomfort are feelings or emotions that are subjective in nature. Yet, beside several subjective methodologies, several objective methods (e.g. posture analysis, pressure measurements, electromyography (EMG) are in use to assess sitting comfort or discomfort. In the current paper a theoretical framework is presented, in which comfort and discomfort were defined and the hypothetical associations with underlying factors were indicated. Next, the literature was reviewed to determine the relationships between objective measures and subjective ratings of comfort and discomfort. Twenty-one studies were found in which simultaneous measures of an objective parameter and a subjective rating of comfort or discomfort were obtained. Pressure distribution appears to be the objective measure with the most clear association with the subjective ratings. For other variables, regarding spinal profile or muscle activity for instance, the reported associations are less clear and usually not statistically significant.

Thermal comfort and psychological adaptation as a guide for designing urban spaces

Investigating thermal comfort conditions in outdoor urban spaces, has thrown some light on the complexity of the issues involved, demonstrating that a quantitative approach is insufficient in describing comfort conditions outdoors. It revealed that although microclimatic parameters strongly influence thermal sensation, they cannot fully account for the wide variation between objective and subjective comfort evaluation, whereas, psychological adaptation seems to becoming increasingly important. This paper concentrates on the issue of psychological adaptation: naturalness, expectations, experience (short-/long-term), time of exposure, perceived control and environmental stimulation, and presents an attempt to try and evaluate the relative impact of each of these parameters. Understanding the interrelationship between the different parameters of psychological adaptation would be of interest in order to compare their relative significance, and to assess their design role, that is whether design considerations would influence these parameters, or vice versa, whether they could influence design decisions. An awareness of these issues would be valuable to architects, planners and urban designers, not by the way of limiting possible solutions, rather by enriching the design possibilities.

Oxygen consumption during ambulation: Comparison of using a prosthesis fitted with and without a tele-torsion device

Buckley JG, Jones SF, Birch KM. Oxygen consumption during ambulation: comparison of using a prosthesis fitted with and without a tele-torsion device. Arch Phys Med Rehabil 2002;83:576-81. Objective: To determine the energy expenditure and subjective comfort rating of walking in transtibial amputee patients using their prosthesis fitted either with or without a tele-torsion device (TT Pylon). Design: Randomized, before-after trial. Setting: Gait laboratory. Participants: Six men, moderately active, with unilateral transtibial amputation (mean age, 39.5 ± 9.9y). Intervention: Subjects walked on a motorized treadmill using their prosthesis fitted either with (ProsWith) or without (ProsWithout) a TT Pylon. Trials were repeated with subjects walking at speeds 100%, 130%, and 160% of their “normal” pace. Main Outcome Measures: The energy expended (VO2) and subjective comfort rating during each walking trial. Results: VO2 during walking with the prosthesis fitted with the TT Pylon was 5.4% and 9.1% lower than when using the prosthesis without the TT Pylon, at the speeds 130% and 160% of normal, respectively. Findings at the speed 160% greater than normal were significant (P <.05). Two of the subjects perceived no difference in prosthetic comfort between ProsWith and ProsWithout. The other 4 subjects preferred the TT Pylon at all speeds. Conclusion: Use of a TT Pylon can significantly reduce the energy expenditure of walking at speeds above normal. © 2002 by the American Congress of Rehabilitation Medicine and the American Academy of Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation

Evaluation of Methods, Approaches and Simulation Quality in the Experimental Evaluation of Car Seat Comfort and Functionality

This paper presents methodology, approaches and simulation actually used in the context of human factor studies designed to build knowledge on comfort and functionality of car seats. Backgrounds are literature and two own experimental studies. The methodology presented involves comparative studies with variation of one or several seat design factors. Scales for subjective evaluation of seat comfort and functionality, completing questionnaires and interviews are evaluated. Also compared are approaches to the design of sitting trials, involving real or simulated conditions. The simulations are qualified, in terms of what actually works. Physical data collection alternatives, namely, moving and still images and interface pressure data, are also commented upon. Anthropometric and other criteria for the selection of subjects are discussed together with sample size. Alternatives for tasks to be performed by trial persons are also discussed, along with the degree of freedom left to subjects. Alternative designs of standardized driving routes are compared. Driving tests validated the results arrived at in the laboratory tests, with both tests designed with methods and approaches presented in the paper.

Recommended Dimension of Office Chair Design for Korean

We evaluated general office chair and adjustable chairs which can adjust to fit each person. We also analyzed how each design dimension was reached and affected the human body by objective EMG (Electromyogram) evaluation, and by subjective evaluation of physical discomfort and comfort. Studies like this will be very important in the database. The purpose of this study is on upgrading the physical comfortableness, eliminating users' complaints about previous chairs.

Inspiratory Flow Rate and Dynamic Lung Function in Cystic Fibrosis and Chronic Obstructive Lung Diseases

The peak inspiratory flow rates (PIFRs) generated by cystic fibrosis (CF) and COPD patients through a range of clinically relevant resistances have not yet been reported (to our knowledge). The objectives of this study were to (1) explore a relevant range of resistive loads and address whether patients with stable CF and COPD can generate the PIFR sufficient to disperse dry-powder inhalants (DPI) and (2) determine whether the optimal inspiratory flow rate effective for delivery of aerosolized pharmacologic therapeutic agents can be attained with a comfort rating acceptable to subjects. Prospective, controlled, subject-blinded study. Pulmonary function laboratory at the VA Palo Alto Health Care System. Thirty-six subjects, including 12 healthy volunteers, 12 subjects with CF, and 12 subjects with COPD were studied. Studies of dynamic lung function and PIFR without and with varying resistances were obtained at a single laboratory visit. Dynamic lung function and PIFR varied inversely with the resistive load for all patient groups and did not correlate with the disease severity, as indicated by FEV1 of percent predicted. The average subjective comfort rating for any given resistive load was similar for subjects with CF and COPD. These results support the conclusion that subjects with stable CF and COPD of varying severity can comfortably generate the necessary flow rates to operate new and currently available DPIs over a wide range of inspiratory resistances.

Comfort Pressure Evaluation of Men's Socks Using an Elastic Optical Fiber

In this work, factor analysis is used to study six adjectives for defining comfort in Japanese men's socks. Comfort consists of three common factors: Factor A is related to a tight feeling at the sole of socks and a cramped feeling, factor B is related to a close tit feeling, and factor C is related to a tight feeling at the top of socks and a comfortable feeling. Because the comfortable feeling is closely related to the tight feeling at the top, a system is developed to measure the clothing pressure at the top of the socks using an elastic optical fiber. The relation between the subjective evaluation of comfort and the clothing pressure as measured by the experimental system is then examined by correlation analysis. Because the clothing pressure at the sock top has a positive correlation with the tight feeling at the top and a negative correlation with the comfortable feeling, men's socks are judged loose at their tops and comfortable as the clothing pressure at the top decreases.