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Zare Bidoki F, Ezazshahabi N, Mousazadegan F, Latifi M. Evaluating gloved hand performance based on the mechanical properties of the applied material. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF OCCUPATIONAL SAFETY AND ERGONOMICS 2024; 30:845-857. [PMID: 38872424 DOI: 10.1080/10803548.2024.2357941] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/15/2024]
Abstract
The hands are the most complex organs of the body for performing various activities. Therefore, it is critical to protect them against dangers. Protective gloves can reduce or prevent injuries, but they can downgrade hand performance in various aspects, including tactile sensitivity, strength, grip force and hand dexterity. In this study, eight protective gloves with different designs and materials were made. The study investigated the influence of the number of layers and several characteristics, e.g., mass per square meter, thickness, bending stiffness and compressibility, on the gloved hand performance regarding protection ability, tactile sensitivity, strength capability and manual dexterity. The results indicated that despite the improving effects of increasing layer thickness, weight, bending energy and compressibility on protection ability, the gloves diminish tactile sensitivity, grip and pinch force, and manual dexterity. Therefore, it is necessary to select an optimum design to ensure a satisfactory trade-off between protection and performance.
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Affiliation(s)
- F Zare Bidoki
- Textile Engineering Faculty, Amirkabir University of Technology (Tehran Polytechnic), Iran
| | - N Ezazshahabi
- Textile Engineering Faculty, Amirkabir University of Technology (Tehran Polytechnic), Iran
| | - F Mousazadegan
- Textile Engineering Faculty, Amirkabir University of Technology (Tehran Polytechnic), Iran
| | - M Latifi
- Textile Engineering Faculty, Amirkabir University of Technology (Tehran Polytechnic), Iran
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Joshi A, Li R, Wu Y, Zhang M, Song G. Analysis of glove local microclimate properties for various glove types and fits using 3D scanning method. Heliyon 2024; 10:e23596. [PMID: 38205334 PMCID: PMC10777371 DOI: 10.1016/j.heliyon.2023.e23596] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/27/2022] [Revised: 11/28/2023] [Accepted: 12/07/2023] [Indexed: 01/12/2024] Open
Abstract
Due to their geometry and thermal physiology, hands are most vulnerable to cold weather injuries and loss of dexterity. Gloves are the most common for hand protection during exposure to extreme thermal and hazardous environments. Although glove microclimate properties such as area factor, air gap thickness, and contact area play a significant role in thermal protection, identifying local (at individual hand segments) glove microclimate properties is still a research gap. For the first time, the glove-microclimate properties for 16 hand segments at high spatial resolution were analyzed by employing state-of-the-art hand-held 3D scanner and post-processing techniques for different glove types. Our results clearly indicate that the glove area factor for distal phalanges is significantly higher (by 49.8 %) than that for other hand segments, which increases the heat transfer from distal phalanges. In contrast, average air gap thickness was relatively uniform across all hand segments. The glove type had a pronounced effect on glove microclimate properties, e.g., bulky and heavy cold weather protective gloves had a larger average air gap thickness and glove area factor. Regression models are also developed to estimate the glove microclimate properties from simple measurement (i.e., ease allowance). Overall, this study provides essential information for the design and development of protective gloves that can help improve safety, comfort, and dexterity. Methods and mathematical models developed in this study also contribute to facilitating extremity (e.g., hand) focused thermoregulation modeling, hazard simulation, injury prediction, ergonomic design, optimum performance (dexterity and tactility) along with thermal protection.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Rui Li
- Iowa State University, Ames, IA, 50010, USA
| | - Yulin Wu
- Iowa State University, Ames, IA, 50010, USA
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Ni J, Xiao P, Li B. Effects of firefighting gloves styles on manual performance. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF OCCUPATIONAL SAFETY AND ERGONOMICS 2023; 29:1532-1541. [PMID: 36522854 DOI: 10.1080/10803548.2022.2157122] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/23/2022]
Abstract
This study analyzes structural characteristics of firefighting gloves from the perspective of style design, to investigate the impact of the fit of four types of selected firefighting gloves on firefighters' manual operation efficiency. Seventeen male college students participated in the ergonomic trial to compare manual work done with bare hands and while wearing gloves. The results showed that the participants' hand dexterity decreased after wearing firefighting gloves, but there were significant differences between different styles of gloves. As glove thickness increased, the time to complete manual work increased continuously. But the change in the participant's hand and finger length did not affect the tactile perception of gloves. The construction of fingers had an inverse significant effect on dexterity and grip performance. To enhance manual performance, it is recommended that hand length, finger length and finger girth be considered when designing firefighting gloves based on the motion characteristics of firefighting operations.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jiaming Ni
- College of Fashion and Design, Donghua University, People's Republic of China
| | - Ping Xiao
- College of Fashion and Design, Donghua University, People's Republic of China
- Key Laboratory of Clothing Design and Technology, Ministry of Education, Donghua University, People's Republic of China
| | - Boyi Li
- College of Fashion and Design, Donghua University, People's Republic of China
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4
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Seo NJ, Ramakrishnan V, Woodbury ML, Bonilha L, Finetto C, Schranz C, Scronce G, Coupland K, Blaschke J, Baker A, Howard K, Meinzer C, Velozo CA, Adams RJ. Concomitant sensory stimulation during therapy to enhance hand functional recovery post stroke. Trials 2022; 23:262. [PMID: 35382902 PMCID: PMC8981199 DOI: 10.1186/s13063-022-06241-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/14/2022] [Accepted: 03/28/2022] [Indexed: 11/17/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Post-stroke hand impairment is prevalent and persistent even after a full course of rehabilitation. Hand diminishes stroke survivors’ abilities for activities of daily living and independence. One way to improve treatment efficacy is to augment therapy with peripheral sensory stimulation. Recently, a novel sensory stimulation, TheraBracelet, has been developed in which imperceptible vibration is applied during task practice through a wrist-worn device. The objective of this trial is to determine if combining TheraBracelet with hand task practice is superior to hand task practice alone. Methods A double-blind randomized controlled trial will be used. Chronic stroke survivors will undergo a standardized hand task practice therapy program (3 days/week for 6 weeks) while wearing a device on the paretic wrist. The device will deliver TheraBracelet vibration for the treatment group and no vibration for the control group. The primary outcome is hand function measured by the Wolf Motor Function Test. Other outcomes include the Box and Block Test, Action Research Arm Test, upper extremity use in daily living, biomechanical measure of the sensorimotor grip control, and EEG-based neural communication. Discussion This research will determine clinical utility of TheraBracelet to guide future translation. The TheraBracelet stimulation is delivered via a wrist-worn device, does not interfere with hand motion, and can be easily integrated into clinical practice. Enhancing hand function should substantially increase stroke survivors' independence and quality of life and reduce caregiver burden. Trial registration NCT04569123. Registered on September 29, 2020
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Affiliation(s)
- Na Jin Seo
- Department of Rehabilitation Sciences, Department of Health Science and Research, Medical University of South Carolina, 151B Rutledge Ave, MSC 962, Charleston, SC, 29425, USA. .,Ralph H. Johnson VA Medical Center, Charleston, SC, USA. .,Department of Health Science and Research, Medical University of South Carolina, 77 President St, MSC 700, Charleston, SC, 29425, USA.
| | - Viswanathan Ramakrishnan
- Department of Public Health Sciences, Medical University of South Carolina, 135 Cannon St, Charleston, SC, 29425, USA
| | - Michelle L Woodbury
- Department of Health Science and Research, Medical University of South Carolina, 77 President St, MSC 700, Charleston, SC, 29425, USA
| | - Leonardo Bonilha
- Department of Neurology, Medical University of South Carolina, 96 Jonathan Lucas St, MSC 606, Charleston, SC, 29425, USA
| | - Christian Finetto
- Department of Health Science and Research, Medical University of South Carolina, 77 President St, MSC 700, Charleston, SC, 29425, USA
| | - Christian Schranz
- Department of Health Science and Research, Medical University of South Carolina, 77 President St, MSC 700, Charleston, SC, 29425, USA
| | - Gabrielle Scronce
- Department of Health Science and Research, Medical University of South Carolina, 77 President St, MSC 700, Charleston, SC, 29425, USA
| | - Kristen Coupland
- Department of Health Science and Research, Medical University of South Carolina, 77 President St, MSC 700, Charleston, SC, 29425, USA
| | - Jenna Blaschke
- Department of Rehabilitation Sciences, Department of Health Science and Research, Medical University of South Carolina, 151B Rutledge Ave, MSC 962, Charleston, SC, 29425, USA
| | - Adam Baker
- Department of Health Science and Research, Medical University of South Carolina, 77 President St, MSC 700, Charleston, SC, 29425, USA
| | - Keith Howard
- Department of Health Science and Research, Medical University of South Carolina, 77 President St, MSC 700, Charleston, SC, 29425, USA
| | - Caitlyn Meinzer
- Department of Public Health Sciences, Medical University of South Carolina, 135 Cannon St, Charleston, SC, 29425, USA
| | - Craig A Velozo
- Department of Rehabilitation Sciences, Department of Health Science and Research, Medical University of South Carolina, 151B Rutledge Ave, MSC 962, Charleston, SC, 29425, USA
| | - Robert J Adams
- Department of Neurology, Medical University of South Carolina, 96 Jonathan Lucas St, MSC 606, Charleston, SC, 29425, USA
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5
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The Impact of Protective Gloves on Manual Dexterity in Cold Environments-A Pilot Study. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH AND PUBLIC HEALTH 2022; 19:ijerph19031637. [PMID: 35162660 PMCID: PMC8835575 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph19031637] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/23/2021] [Revised: 01/27/2022] [Accepted: 01/28/2022] [Indexed: 11/17/2022]
Abstract
Our research aimed to determine the impact of two types of protective gloves. The research tested the glove performance on men exposed to a range of temperatures reflecting the working conditions in fruit and vegetable processing. The gloves were assessed for performance within the time required to complete a specific manual task and for performance relative to the subjective thermal sensations in the male subjects. Six males participated in a total of 3 study variants: at +5 °C (with double gloves and single glove), at -1 °C (with double gloves and single glove) and in reference conditions +20 °C (without gloves), in which they performed manual tasks. The measurement of manual task performance time was used to assess manual dexterity. Subjective thermal sensations were determined. Differences in the time required to complete specific tasks were observed between the variants with gloves (both at a temperature of +5 °C and -1 °C), and without gloves (p < 0.05). The type of protective gloves had an impact on the time needed to complete manual tasks and therefore may affect manual dexterity.
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Yu A, Sukigara S. Evaluation of the design and materials of anti-vibration gloves: Impact on hand dexterity and forearm muscle activity. APPLIED ERGONOMICS 2022; 98:103572. [PMID: 34474315 DOI: 10.1016/j.apergo.2021.103572] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/12/2021] [Revised: 08/04/2021] [Accepted: 08/23/2021] [Indexed: 06/13/2023]
Abstract
Many anti-vibration gloves are available in the market but there are lacks of understanding of their effectiveness in facilitating various hand movements. This study addresses the knowledge gap through a wear trial with five types of anti-vibration gloves made of chloroprene rubber and spacer fabric. Surface electromyography of three forearm muscles of 16 male subjects was conducted during gripping, key pinching, woodblock transporting, screw inserting and screw driving tasks. The correlation between the compression properties of the gloves and hand performance was also evaluated. The results show that hand dexterity is inhibited and more muscle activity is needed to carry the woodblocks with the spacer fabric glove without special design features. A thicker glove can reduce the demand of the flexor digitorum superficialis muscle when using an impact driver. A thinner dorsal side and tailored padding can enhance hand dexterity. The findings can be used as a reference for designing anti-vibration gloves.
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Affiliation(s)
- Annie Yu
- Department of Advanced Fibro Science, Kyoto Institute of Technology, Japan.
| | - Sachiko Sukigara
- Department of Advanced Fibro Science, Kyoto Institute of Technology, Japan
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Guo K, Zhang S, Zhao S, Yang H. Design and Manufacture of Data Gloves for Rehabilitation Training and Gesture Recognition Based on Flexible Sensors. JOURNAL OF HEALTHCARE ENGINEERING 2021; 2021:6359403. [PMID: 34917309 PMCID: PMC8670918 DOI: 10.1155/2021/6359403] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/19/2021] [Revised: 11/23/2021] [Accepted: 11/26/2021] [Indexed: 11/17/2022]
Abstract
This work takes the production and usage scenarios of the data glove as the research object and studies the method of applying the flexible sensor to the data glove. Many studies are also devoted to exploring the transplantation of flexible sensors to data gloves. However, this type of research still lacks the display of specific application scenarios such as gesture recognition or hand rehabilitation training. A small amount of experimental data and theoretical analysis are difficult to promote the development of flexible sensors and flexible data gloves design schemes. Therefore, this study uses the self-made flexible sensor of the research group as the core sensing unit to produce a flexible data glove to monitor the bending changes of the knuckles and then use it for simple gesture recognition and rehabilitation training.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kai Guo
- School of Biomedical Engineering (Suzhou), Division of Life Sciences and Medicine, University of Science and Technology of China, Hefei 230026, China
- Suzhou Institute of Biomedical Engineering and Technology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Suzhou 215163, China
| | - Senhao Zhang
- School of Biomedical Engineering (Suzhou), Division of Life Sciences and Medicine, University of Science and Technology of China, Hefei 230026, China
| | - Shasha Zhao
- Suzhou Institute of Biomedical Engineering and Technology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Suzhou 215163, China
| | - Hongbo Yang
- School of Biomedical Engineering (Suzhou), Division of Life Sciences and Medicine, University of Science and Technology of China, Hefei 230026, China
- Suzhou Institute of Biomedical Engineering and Technology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Suzhou 215163, China
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Kropidłowska P, Jurczyk-Kowalska M, Irzmańska E, Płociński T, Laskowski R. Effects of Composite Coatings Functionalized with Material Additives Applied on Textile Materials for Cut Resistant Protective Gloves. MATERIALS 2021; 14:ma14226876. [PMID: 34832278 PMCID: PMC8620867 DOI: 10.3390/ma14226876] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/08/2021] [Revised: 11/03/2021] [Accepted: 11/09/2021] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
Abstract
The objective of the present work was to evaluate the effects of different types of particles added to a polymer paste applied onto a textile carrier on the cut resistance of the resulting material. Knitted aramid textile samples were coated in laboratory conditions using a polymer paste that was functionalized with 12 types of reinforcing particles of different chemical compositions and size fractions. Cut resistance was tested in accordance with the standard EN ISO 13997:1999 and the results were subjected to statistical analysis. The effects of additive particles on the microstructure of the polymeric layer were assessed by means of scanning electron microscopy. The type and size of the particles affected the cut resistance of the functionalized knitted fabric. They were also found to change the morphology of the porous structure. Composite coatings containing the smallest additive particles exhibited the best cut resistance properties.
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Affiliation(s)
- Paulina Kropidłowska
- Department of Personal Protective Equipment, Central Institute for Labour Protection—National Research Institute, 48 Wierzbowa, 90-133 Lodz, Poland;
| | - Magdalena Jurczyk-Kowalska
- Faculty of Material Science and Engineering, Warsaw University of Technology, 141 Woloska, 02-507 Warsaw, Poland; (M.J.-K.); (T.P.)
| | - Emilia Irzmańska
- Department of Personal Protective Equipment, Central Institute for Labour Protection—National Research Institute, 48 Wierzbowa, 90-133 Lodz, Poland;
- Correspondence:
| | - Tomasz Płociński
- Faculty of Material Science and Engineering, Warsaw University of Technology, 141 Woloska, 02-507 Warsaw, Poland; (M.J.-K.); (T.P.)
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Woods S, Sosa EM, Kurowski-Burt A, Fleming M, Matheny K, Richardson A, Scott H, Perry B, Zornes I. Effects of wearing of metacarpal gloves on hand dexterity, function, and perceived comfort: A pilot study. APPLIED ERGONOMICS 2021; 97:103538. [PMID: 34325355 DOI: 10.1016/j.apergo.2021.103538] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/25/2021] [Revised: 07/19/2021] [Accepted: 07/20/2021] [Indexed: 06/13/2023]
Abstract
Metacarpal gloves are commonly used in heavy-duty industries such as mining and are typically thicker and bulkier than manufacturing or assembly industrial gloves. This pilot study investigates the impact of wearing metacarpal gloves on hand dexterity, functional capabilities, and perceived comfort. Four types of commercially available metacarpal gloves were selected for evaluation in a randomized controlled trial. Evaluations included turning and placing tests, also grip, pinch, and screwdriver tests, and rating of the perceived level of effort. Dexterity test results showed that metacarpal gloves significantly reduced the ability to perform motor tasks requiring coordination compared to bare hands. Hand functions such as gripping, pinching, and forearm rotations were not significantly affected. However, the perceived level of effort needed to complete those hand functions increased as the metacarpal glove's bulkiness increased. High levels of mechanical protection typically offered by metacarpal gloves can inversely affect hand dexterity and hand exertion.
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Affiliation(s)
- SueAnn Woods
- School of Medicine, Division of Occupational Therapy, West Virginia University, Morgantown, WV, 26505, USA.
| | - Eduardo M Sosa
- Statler College of Engineering, Department of Mechanical Engineering and Aerospace Engineering, West Virginia University, Morgantown, WV, 26506, USA.
| | - Amy Kurowski-Burt
- School of Medicine, Division of Occupational Therapy, West Virginia University, Morgantown, WV, 26505, USA
| | - Marissa Fleming
- School of Medicine, Division of Occupational Therapy, West Virginia University, Morgantown, WV, 26505, USA
| | - Kristen Matheny
- School of Medicine, Division of Occupational Therapy, West Virginia University, Morgantown, WV, 26505, USA
| | - Ashlyn Richardson
- School of Medicine, Division of Occupational Therapy, West Virginia University, Morgantown, WV, 26505, USA
| | - Heather Scott
- School of Medicine, Division of Occupational Therapy, West Virginia University, Morgantown, WV, 26505, USA
| | - Brooke Perry
- School of Medicine, Division of Occupational Therapy, West Virginia University, Morgantown, WV, 26505, USA
| | - Isabella Zornes
- School of Medicine, Division of Occupational Therapy, West Virginia University, Morgantown, WV, 26505, USA
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Yang Y, Zhou H, Song Y, Vink P. Identify dominant dimensions of 3D hand shapes using statistical shape model and deep neural network. APPLIED ERGONOMICS 2021; 96:103462. [PMID: 34049195 DOI: 10.1016/j.apergo.2021.103462] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/25/2021] [Revised: 04/30/2021] [Accepted: 05/11/2021] [Indexed: 06/12/2023]
Abstract
Hand anthropometry is one of the fundamentals of ergonomic research and product design. Many studies have been conducted to analyze the hand dimensions among different populations, however, the definitions and the numbers of those dimensions were usually selected based on the experience of the researchers and the available equipment. Few studies explored the importance of each hand dimension regarding the 3D shape of the hand. In this paper, we aim to identify the dominant dimensions that influence the hand shape variability while considering the stability of the measurements in practice. A novel four-step research method was proposed where in the first step, based on literature study, we defined 58 landmarks and 53 dimensions for the exploration. In the second step, 80,000 virtual hand models, each had the associated 53 dimensions, were augmented by changing the weights of Principle Components (PCs) of a statistical shape model (SSM). Deep neural networks (DNNs) were used to establish the inverse relationships from the dimensions to the weight of each PC of the hand SSM. Using the structured sparsity learning method, we identified 21 dominant dimensions that represent 90% of the variance of the hand shape. In the third step, two different manual measuring methods were used to evaluate the stability of the measurements in practice. Finally, we selected 16 dominant dimensions with lower measurement variance by synthesizing the findings in Step 2 and 3. It was concluded that the recognized 21 dominant dimensions can be treated as the reference dimensions for anthropometric study and using the selected 16 dominant dimensions with lower measurement variance, ergonomists are able to generate a 3D hand model based on simple measurement tools with an accuracy of 5.9 mm. Though the accuracy is limited, the efforts are minimum, and the results can be used as an indicator in the early stage of research/design.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yusheng Yang
- School of Mechatronic Engineering and Automation, Shanghai University, Shanghai, 200444, China; Faculty of Industrial Design Engineering, Delft University of Technology, Delft, South Holland, 2628CE, the Netherlands
| | - Hongpeng Zhou
- Faculty of Mechanical, Maritime and Materials Engineering, Delft University of Technology, Delft, South Holland, 2628CD, the Netherlands
| | - Yu Song
- Faculty of Industrial Design Engineering, Delft University of Technology, Delft, South Holland, 2628CE, the Netherlands.
| | - Peter Vink
- Faculty of Industrial Design Engineering, Delft University of Technology, Delft, South Holland, 2628CE, the Netherlands
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Yu A, Yick KL, Wong ST. Analysis of length of finger segments with different hand postures to enhance glove design. APPLIED ERGONOMICS 2021; 94:103409. [PMID: 33740742 DOI: 10.1016/j.apergo.2021.103409] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/28/2020] [Revised: 02/24/2021] [Accepted: 03/01/2021] [Indexed: 06/12/2023]
Abstract
It is important to understand how the hand and fingers elongate and contract with hand posture for optimally fitting and comfortable gloves. Nevertheless, the measurement and analysis of the finger segments for glove designs remain largely neglected. Here, the length and proportion of the finger segments when splayed and during gripping, and between the dorsal and palm sides of 30 participants are 3D scanned and analysed. The full digit lengths change by 7.6-11.9% with hand posture, but the finger segment changes are not proportional. The ratios of the fingertip to distal interphalangeal joint/full digit, and fingertip to the proximal interphalangeal joint/full digit, are important variables. The results are validated with 10 more subjects based on ratings of a ready-to-wear sports glove. Inaccurate proportioning of the finger regions causes shifting which results in displacement and discomfort. This research contributes to glove pattern engineering, with a focus on the finger segments.
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Affiliation(s)
- Annie Yu
- Department of Advanced Fibro Science, Kyoto Institute of Technology, Japan
| | - Kit-Lun Yick
- Institute of Textiles and Clothing, The Hong Kong Polytechnic University, Hong Kong; Laboratory for Artificial Intelligence in Design, Hong Kong.
| | - Sin-Tung Wong
- Institute of Textiles and Clothing, The Hong Kong Polytechnic University, Hong Kong
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12
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Jia L, Zhou X, Qin H, Bai R, Wang L, Xue C. Research on Discrete Semantics in Continuous Hand Joint Movement Based on Perception and Expression. SENSORS (BASEL, SWITZERLAND) 2021; 21:3735. [PMID: 34072094 PMCID: PMC8199321 DOI: 10.3390/s21113735] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/20/2021] [Revised: 05/19/2021] [Accepted: 05/24/2021] [Indexed: 12/23/2022]
Abstract
Continuous movements of the hand contain discrete expressions of meaning, forming a variety of semantic gestures. For example, it is generally considered that the bending of the finger includes three semantic states of bending, half bending, and straightening. However, there is still no research on the number of semantic states that can be conveyed by each movement primitive of the hand, especially the interval of each semantic state and the representative movement angle. To clarify these issues, we conducted experiments of perception and expression. Experiments 1 and 2 focused on perceivable semantic levels and boundaries of different motion primitive units from the perspective of visual semantic perception. Experiment 3 verified and optimized the segmentation results obtained above and further determined the typical motion values of each semantic state. Furthermore, in Experiment 4, the empirical application of the above semantic state segmentation was illustrated by using Leap Motion as an example. We ended up with the discrete gesture semantic expression space both in the real world and Leap Motion Digital World, containing the clearly defined number of semantic states of each hand motion primitive unit and boundaries and typical motion angle values of each state. Construction of this quantitative semantic expression will play a role in guiding and advancing research in the fields of gesture coding, gesture recognition, and gesture design.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Xiaozhou Zhou
- School of Mechanical Engineering, Southeast University, Nanjing 211189, China; (L.J.); (H.Q.); (R.B.); (L.W.); (C.X.)
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Zare A, Choobineh A, Mokarami H, Jahangiri M. The Medical Gloves Assessment Tool (MGAT): Developing and validating a quantitative tool for assessing the safety and ergonomic features related to medical gloves. J Nurs Manag 2020; 29:591-601. [PMID: 33095950 DOI: 10.1111/jonm.13188] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/31/2020] [Revised: 10/07/2020] [Accepted: 10/15/2020] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Medical gloves play a very important role in protecting health care workers and patients. It is very important to pay attention to the safety and ergonomic properties of medical gloves in their protective function. AIM To develop a quantitative tool for evaluating the safety and ergonomic properties of the medical gloves. METHODS Five hospitals with a total of 185 health care workers participated in the research. The domains and items of the tool were developed based on an expert's panel, interviews with health care workers and a literature review. Face, content and construct validity was used for validation. Reliability was also evaluated using internal consistency. RESULTS The final tool included 26 items in six domains, including tactile sensation, dexterity, grip strength, fitting, reliability and hand hygiene. The Cronbach's alpha was 0.82 for the total scale. CONCLUSION The final tool had good validity and reliability. The findings of this study led to the development of a comprehensive standard tool that can be used to assess the ergonomic and safety status of medical gloves. IMPLICATIONS FOR NURSING MANAGEMENT With this tool, problems related to medical gloves can be identified among nurses, and the necessary interventions can be predicted.
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Affiliation(s)
- Asma Zare
- Department of Occupational Health Engineering, School of Health, Shiraz University of Medical Sciences, Shiraz, Iran
| | - Alireza Choobineh
- Research Center for Health Sciences, Institute of Health, Shiraz University of Medical Sciences, Shiraz, Iran
| | - Hamidreza Mokarami
- Department of Ergonomics, School of Health, Shiraz University of Medical Sciences, Shiraz, Iran
| | - Mehdi Jahangiri
- Department of Occupational Health Engineering, Research Center for Health Sciences, School of Health, Shiraz University of Medical Sciences, Shiraz, Iran
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Hsiao CK, Tu YK, Tsai YJ, Yang CY, Lu CW. Forearm muscular strength and performance fatigability in orthopaedic surgeons when performing bone screw fixations. APPLIED ERGONOMICS 2020; 87:103135. [PMID: 32501253 DOI: 10.1016/j.apergo.2020.103135] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/23/2019] [Revised: 04/15/2020] [Accepted: 04/21/2020] [Indexed: 06/11/2023]
Abstract
This study investigated the muscle strength and performance fatigability of the forearms in eight male orthopaedic surgeons when performing bone screw fixations. Each surgeon performed an eight-bone screws operations in a porcine femur model to simulate fractural fixation using plating technique. The pre- and post-fatigue maximum isometric forces and corresponding electromyography responses were measured to assess the forearm muscle strength loss and fatigue due to screwing. Results showed that after eight bone screws were inserted, the maximal grip force, maximal driving torque and maximal push force losses were approximately 29%, 20% and 23%, respectively. While the grip force and/or driving torque acting, both the brachioradialis and extensor carpi ulnaris had a higher percentage change of EMG than the biceps brachii. The driving forces decreased with the number of screw insertions; however, the insertion time increased parabolically with the number of screws and significantly decreased the insertion rate of the screws, indicating that forearm muscle fatigue may occur in surgeons who treat fracture fixation using more than eight bone screws.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chih-Kun Hsiao
- Department of Public Health, Kaohsiung Medical University, Kaohsiung, 807, Taiwan; Department of Orthopaedics, E-Da Hospital, Kaohsiung, 824, Taiwan
| | - Yuan-Kun Tu
- Department of Orthopaedics, E-Da Hospital, Kaohsiung, 824, Taiwan
| | - Yi-Jung Tsai
- Department of Orthopaedics, E-Da Hospital, Kaohsiung, 824, Taiwan
| | - Chun-Yuh Yang
- Department of Public Health, Kaohsiung Medical University, Kaohsiung, 807, Taiwan.
| | - Chih-Wei Lu
- Department of Industrial and Systems Engineering, Chung Yuan Christian University, Chung Li, 320, Taiwan.
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15
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Zaccagni L, Toselli S, Bramanti B, Gualdi-Russo E, Mongillo J, Rinaldo N. Handgrip Strength in Young Adults: Association with Anthropometric Variables and Laterality. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH AND PUBLIC HEALTH 2020; 17:E4273. [PMID: 32549283 PMCID: PMC7345833 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph17124273] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/05/2020] [Revised: 06/10/2020] [Accepted: 06/12/2020] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
The measurement of handgrip strength (HGS) is an indicator of an individual's overall strength and can serve as a predictor of morbidity and mortality. This study aims to investigate whether HGS is associated with handedness in young adults and if it is influenced by anthropometric characteristics, body composition, and sport-related parameters. We conducted a cross-sectional study on a sample of 544 young Italian adults aged 18-30 years. We measured HGS using a dynamometer and collected data on handedness and physical activity, along with anthropometric measurements. In both sexes, the HGS of the dominant side was significantly greater than that of the non-dominant side. Furthermore, in ambidextrous individuals, the right hand was stronger than the left. A comparison between the lowest and the highest tercile of HGS highlighted its significant association with anthropometric and body composition parameters in both sexes. Moreover, sex, dominant upper arm muscle area, arm fat index, fat mass, and fat-free mass were found to be significant predictors of HGS by multiple regression analysis. Our findings suggest that HGS is especially influenced by body composition parameters and handedness category. Therefore, HGS can be used as a proxy for unhealthy conditions with impairment of muscle mass, provided that the dominance in the laterality of the subject under examination is taken into account.
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Affiliation(s)
- Luciana Zaccagni
- Department of Biomedical and Specialty Surgical Sciences, Faculty of Medicine, Pharmacy and Prevention, University of Ferrara, 44121 Ferrara, Italy; (L.Z.); (J.M.); (N.R.)
- Biomedical Sport Studies Center, University of Ferrara, 44123 Ferrara, Italy
| | - Stefania Toselli
- Department of Biomedical and Neuromotor Science, University of Bologna, 40126 Bologna, Italy
| | - Barbara Bramanti
- Department of Biomedical and Specialty Surgical Sciences, Faculty of Medicine, Pharmacy and Prevention, University of Ferrara, 44121 Ferrara, Italy; (L.Z.); (J.M.); (N.R.)
- University Center for Studies on Gender Medicine, University of Ferrara, 44121 Ferrara, Italy
| | - Emanuela Gualdi-Russo
- Department of Biomedical and Specialty Surgical Sciences, Faculty of Medicine, Pharmacy and Prevention, University of Ferrara, 44121 Ferrara, Italy; (L.Z.); (J.M.); (N.R.)
| | - Jessica Mongillo
- Department of Biomedical and Specialty Surgical Sciences, Faculty of Medicine, Pharmacy and Prevention, University of Ferrara, 44121 Ferrara, Italy; (L.Z.); (J.M.); (N.R.)
| | - Natascia Rinaldo
- Department of Biomedical and Specialty Surgical Sciences, Faculty of Medicine, Pharmacy and Prevention, University of Ferrara, 44121 Ferrara, Italy; (L.Z.); (J.M.); (N.R.)
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16
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Seo NJ, Enders LR, Fortune A, Cain S, Vatinno AA, Schuster E, Ramakrishnan V, Feng W. Phase I Safety Trial: Extended Daily Peripheral Sensory Stimulation Using a Wrist-Worn Vibrator in Stroke Survivors. Transl Stroke Res 2019; 11:204-213. [PMID: 31444692 DOI: 10.1007/s12975-019-00724-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/20/2019] [Revised: 08/06/2019] [Accepted: 08/13/2019] [Indexed: 12/19/2022]
Abstract
Peripheral sensory stimulation augments post-stroke upper extremity rehabilitation outcomes. Most sensory stimulations interfere with natural hand tasks and the stimulation duration is limited. We developed TheraBracelet, low-level random-frequency vibration applied via a wristwatch, to enable stimulation during hand tasks and potentially extend stimulation durations. To determine safety of prolonged exposure to TheraBracelet. Single-site double-blind crossover randomized controlled trial. Chronic stroke survivors were instructed to wear a device on the affected wrist for > 8 h/day everyday for 2 months while coming to the laboratory weekly for evaluations, with a 2-week break between each month. The device applied vibration at 60% and 1% of the sensory threshold for the real and sham month, respectively. The order of the real and sham months was randomized/balanced. Adverse events (AEs) were assessed weekly, including worsening of hand sensation, dexterity, grip strength, pain, or spasticity and occurrence of skin irritation or swelling. Device-related AE rates were compared between the real and sham month. Twenty-five participants completed the study. Six participants (24%) experienced mild AEs involving worsened sensory scores that may be related to the intervention with reasonable possibility. Two experienced them in the real stimulation month only, 3 in the sham month only, and 1 in both months. Therefore, less participants experienced device-related AEs in the real than sham month. Daily stimulation using the device for a month is safe for chronic stroke survivors. Future studies examining the efficacy of pairing TheraBracelet with therapy for increasing neurorehabilitation outcomes are a logical next step. Trial registration: NCT03318341.
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Affiliation(s)
- Na Jin Seo
- Division of Occupational Therapy, Department of Health Professions, Department of Health Sciences and Research, Medical University of South Carolina (MUSC), Charleston, SC, USA.
| | | | - Andrew Fortune
- Department of Health Sciences and Research, MUSC, Charleston, SC, USA
| | - Shannon Cain
- Division of Occupational Therapy, Department of Health Professions, MUSC, Charleston, SC, USA
| | - Amanda A Vatinno
- Department of Health Sciences and Research, MUSC, Charleston, SC, USA
| | - Eli Schuster
- Department of Health Professions, MUSC, Charleston, SC, USA
| | | | - Wuwei Feng
- Department of Health Sciences and Research, MUSC, Charleston, SC, USA
- Department of Neurology, Duke University Medical Center, Durham, NC, USA
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17
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Seo NJ, Lakshminarayanan K, Lauer AW, Ramakrishnan V, Schmit BD, Hanlon CA, George MS, Bonilha L, Downey RJ, DeVries W, Nagy T. Use of imperceptible wrist vibration to modulate sensorimotor cortical activity. Exp Brain Res 2019; 237:805-816. [PMID: 30607471 PMCID: PMC6613561 DOI: 10.1007/s00221-018-05465-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/02/2018] [Accepted: 12/21/2018] [Indexed: 11/24/2022]
Abstract
Peripheral sensory stimulation has been used as a method to stimulate the sensorimotor cortex, with applications in neurorehabilitation. To improve delivery modality and usability, a new stimulation method has been developed in which imperceptible random-frequency vibration is applied to the wrist concurrently during hand activity. The objective of this study was to investigate effects of this new sensory stimulation on the sensorimotor cortex. Healthy adults were studied. In a transcranial magnetic stimulation (TMS) study, resting motor threshold, short-interval intracortical inhibition, and intracortical facilitation for the abductor pollicis brevis muscle were compared between vibration on vs. off, while subjects were at rest. In an electroencephalogram (EEG) study, alpha and beta power during rest and event-related desynchronization (ERD) for hand grip were compared between vibration on vs. off. Results showed that vibration decreased EEG power and decreased TMS short-interval intracortical inhibition (i.e., disinhibition) compared with no vibration at rest. Grip-related ERD was also greater during vibration, compared to no vibration. In conclusion, subthreshold random-frequency wrist vibration affected the release of intracortical inhibition and both resting and grip-related sensorimotor cortical activity. Such effects may have implications in rehabilitation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Na Jin Seo
- Department of Health Professions, Medical University of South Carolina, 151B Rutledge Ave., Charleston, SC, 29425, USA.
- Department of Health Sciences and Research, Medical University of South Carolina, Charleston, SC, 29425, USA.
| | - Kishor Lakshminarayanan
- Department of Industrial and Manufacturing Engineering, University of Wisconsin-Milwaukee, Milwaukee, WI, 53201, USA
| | - Abigail W Lauer
- Department of Public Health Sciences, Medical University of South Carolina, Charleston, SC, 29425, USA
| | - Viswanathan Ramakrishnan
- Department of Public Health Sciences, Medical University of South Carolina, Charleston, SC, 29425, USA
| | - Brian D Schmit
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Marquette University, Milwaukee, WI, 53233, USA
| | - Colleen A Hanlon
- Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, Medical University of South Carolina, Charleston, SC, 29425, USA
| | - Mark S George
- Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, Medical University of South Carolina, Charleston, SC, 29425, USA
| | - Leonardo Bonilha
- Department of Neurology, Medical University of South Carolina, Charleston, SC, 29425, USA
| | - Ryan J Downey
- Department of Health Professions, Medical University of South Carolina, 151B Rutledge Ave., Charleston, SC, 29425, USA
| | - Will DeVries
- Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, Medical University of South Carolina, Charleston, SC, 29425, USA
| | - Tibor Nagy
- Department of Chemistry, Appalachian State University, Boone, NC, 28608, USA
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