Date of Award
3-2024
Document Type
Thesis
Degree Name
Master of Science in Engineering Management
Department
Department of Systems Engineering and Management
First Advisor
Jeremy M. Slagley, PhD
Abstract
Field-portable genome sequencing enhances the Department of Defense's strategy for detecting biological threats, particularly in resource-limited environments. While current field-capable detection methods are effective, challenges in identifying emerging threats pose risks to personnel safety. As biotechnological advancements like portable nanopore genome sequencing can advance biological detection capabilities, the viability of conducting laboratory tasks under Mission-Oriented Protective Posture (MOPP) ensembles lacks sufficient data. This research assesses the effectiveness of tools like pipettes, centrifuges, vortexes, and nanopore sequencing within a MOPP ensemble. Novice participants were utilized to explore the extension of this capability, and they completed tasks in three conditions: Fatigues, Laboratory Personal Protective Equipment, and MOPP IV, following a Latin-square design order. Timing, errors, and Likert-scale questionnaires quantitatively measured participants' confidence. Analysis revealed significant confidence differences in MOPP compared to Laboratory PPE and Fatigues (p=0.0078), indicating moderate confidence. No statistical errors differences were identified (p=0.5445). Task completion times varied significantly (p=0.0110), potentially increasing by 3% to 112%. This investigation provides an understanding of the imperatives for in-field laboratory operations, including portable genome sequencing. It explores potential implications within a MOPP IV ensemble, offering valuable insights into the challenges associated with employing this technology in exigent circumstances.
AFIT Designator
AFIT-ENV-MS-24-M-170
Recommended Citation
Torres, Steven A., "Deploying Field-Capable Genome Sequencing: Human Performance Considerations Under Various Personal Protective Equipment Ensembles" (2024). Theses and Dissertations. 7774.
https://scholar.afit.edu/etd/7774
Comments
A 12-month embargo was observed for posting this work on AFIT Scholar.
Distribution Statement A, Approved for Public Release. PA case number on file.