Application of Near-infrared Spectroscopy in Ergonomics and Human Factors: A Discussion Panel

This panel presents near-infrared spectroscopy (NIRS) theory and its principles, and applicability of NIRS on a variety of muscle and cerebral regions during activities that demand considerable physical and mental effort. Five presentations will cover: (1) theoretical basis of NIRS; (2) NIRS-derived hemodynamic measurements in shoulder muscles during repetitive tasks; (3) development of NIRS for use in evaluating long term standing fatigue; (4) monitoring training-related changes in prefrontal cortex activation with functional NIRS; and (5) simultaneous evaluation of physical and mental work.