bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Sustainable Mobility Service Design Considering Economic and Transportation Efficiency in an Aging Society in Japan
Authors: Ojima Takuto , Hiekata Kazuo
Published: December 2024

In depopulated areas, public transportation services provided by municipalities are important for traffic-vulnerable people. Some municipalities need to scale back their services due to budget shortfalls. To tackle this social and technological problem, a transdisciplinary approach is necessary. The contribution of this paper is a methodology for considering sustainable public transportation services over uncertain long term and evaluate using it in Narita City, Japan. Narita City is a complex area where urbanization by the airport and rural farming villages coexist. To estimate the impact of various conditions under public transportation services, we use QoM index, which comprehensively quantifies the quality of an individual’s mobility and can estimate the time-series changes of public transportation in the future. The simulation results show that residents’ QoM values can be divided into two groups, with a higher percentage belonging to the lower group the more likely they are to live in rural areas or to be older, due to lower availability of transportation. In contrast, as the years passed, the average QoM in the urban area decreased, while that in the other areas increased. It means the elderly gradually clustered in the urban area as the years passed by natural population changes. Findings of our design proposal for a sustainable mobility service design in Narita City are to adopt demand-responsive transport like service to satisfy the small but uncertain future demand of traffic-vulnerable people in depopulated area at low cost.
Detecting In-the-Wild Stress and Fatigue of Vessel Traffic Operators Based on Heart Rate Variability
Authors: Hsieh Meng-Hsueh , Xia Ziqing , Lim Wei Lun , Chen Chun-Hsien
Published: December 2024

Stress and fatigue significantly affect an operator’s performance in vessel traffic management, underscoring the importance of their detection for maritime navigation safety. While most previous studies have relied on laboratory-based experiments to gather physiological data, it is recognized that the stress and fatigue induced in such controlled environments differ from those in actual situations. In this study, we have developed a platform that facilitates the collection of real-time heart rate data from operators during genuine VTS operations, while ensuring minimal operational disruption. Additionally, we employed a variety of machine learning models to validate the results of stress and fatigue detection in both within-day and cross-day contexts. These results offer valuable insights into the stress and fatigue levels experienced by operators in real-world settings. Furthermore, the analysis of this real-world data underscores the challenges faced in the practical implementation of stress and fatigue detection systems.
Digitalisation of Highly Regulated Sectors: Understanding Enablers for Digital Technology Adoption
Authors: Jalba Cezara-Lidia , Clark Dave , Lattanzio Susan , Basir Muhammad , Newnes Linda
Published: December 2024

Digital technologies have the potential to improve processes, increase productivity, and materialise new benefits. Despite these benefits, heavily regulated sectors such as the energy sector, characterised by conservatism and a low appetite for risk, encounter obstacles hindering their adoption. This is significant. If digital technologies could be more extensively used in these sectors it might realise considerable economic, environmental, and societal value. Within this paper we present a case study of the Connected Infrastructure project – a successful digital technology project which was conducted by the UK’s Nuclear Decommissioning Authority (NDA). We conduct a workshop with key project stakeholders and use this to identify and rank barriers to digitalisation within the nuclear sector. These barriers are used to structure a discussion to elicit enablers – factors considered to have contributed to the successful implementation of the project. Through thematic analysis ten enabler themes are identified. These are mapped to the transdisciplinary hierarchical system proposed in the seminal work of Jantsch. The results show that both barriers and enablers encompass three levels of the hierarchy (purposive, normative, and pragmatic). No enablers are found to map to the empirical (fundamental science) level. The conclusions emphasise the significant impact of multilevel coordination, which is a distinguishing factor of transdisciplinary approaches and suggest creating a repository of successful technology implementation projects, in relatable contexts, as a practical strategy for improving adoption rates. Future work will look to create and validate guidelines for enabling digital technology uptake in the nuclear sector.
Knowledge Sharing Sessions: A Transdisciplinary Approach for Crossing the Boundary Between Academia and Industry
Authors: Wlazlak Paraskeva , Säfsten Kristina , Hussmo Daniel
Published: December 2024

This paper explores specifically designed workshops, referred to as Knowledge Sharing Sessions (sessions), emphasizing their transdisciplinary nature. These sessions serve as convergence points for academia and industry to collaborate and integrate knowledge, addressing complex concepts such as boundary crossing and boundary objects. The sessions comprised two types: six theory-driven sessions led by researchers, discussing theoretical concepts related to boundary crossing and boundary objects, and four practice-driven sessions led by practitioners, focusing on the means and objects employed by their respective companies to cross boundaries between disciplines in product realisation. These sessions involved three researchers and practitioners from five large and medium-sized manufacturing companies in the Swedish industry. During the sessions, practitioners found themselves challenged by researchers to grasp and reflect upon complex concepts, while researchers faced the task of operationalizing intricate concepts like boundary objects, making them accessible and understandable for practitioners. Expanding such insights can empower practitioners to strategically design objects that effectively serve as boundary objects, thus facilitating the crossing of boundaries between disciplines. Based on the experiences gained from these sessions, the design appears relevant to strengthen transdisciplinary engineering efforts.
Leveraging Large Language Models for Analyzing Climate Change Mitigation Technology Dissemination: A Case Study of Wind Power in the UK
Authors: Yamada Kenji , Nakano Kosaku , Tomita Rintaro , Iwata Hiroyoshi , Emori Seita , Tanaka Kenji
Published: December 2024

The progress of global warming requires countries around the world to accelerate measures to combat climate change. Under these circumstances, the adoption and dissemination of climate change mitigation technologies have become urgent tasks. However, these processes always face numerous challenges, such as high costs and resistance from local communities. Moreover, understanding the status of technology implementation, including these challenges, requires considerable time and effort. This study addresses this issue by applying Large Language Models (LLMs) to identify the key issues related to climate change mitigation technologies. We propose two methodologies: the “document-based approach,” which consists of document summarization, clustering, and topic labeling, and the “topic-based approach,” which consists of topic extraction and counting by classification. In this study, we apply these methodologies to wind power generation using two news media data and analyze the topic trends. There are three main findings: 1) different patterns of topic emergence, 2) detailed trends in discussions about the environmental impacts of wind power, and 3) different characteristics between the two media sources. In addition to these three findings, one of the values of this study is to provide an example of the use of LLMs to monitor the adoption and dissemination of climate change mitigation technologies.
Barriers to community participation: Teens and young adults with	spina bifida
Authors: Boudos Rebecca Marie , Mukherjee Shubhra
Published: December 2024

This study identified the baseline participation rates for 101 teens and young adults ages 10–32 years old with a diagnosis of spina or lipomenigocele bifida in various domains: school, employment, community activities, physical activity and peer social relationships. The goal of the study was also to identify barriers to community participation. Our findings demonstrate that overall participation is low in several domains. Community participation is low with only 30% partaking in an organized community activity at least once a week. Multiple individual, family, and environmental barriers were identified by participants and their family. The most frequent barriers identified were low motivation (38%), lack of information (25%) and time constraints (21%). Barriers need to be addressed on an individualized basis as well as addressing the community as a whole. Future plans are to intervene based on the barriers and reassess participation at 6 months and a year with the goal of increased long term participation, employment, quality of life and social relationships.
Part I. Work hardening for warriors: Occupational therapy for	combat stress casualties
Authors: Steven M. Gerardi
Published: December 2024

Combat stress is an occupational hazard of the military. Soldiers who become job-ineffective due to combat stress are termed ``battle-fatigued.'' Occupational therapy, in the form of work hardening, is an important part of the management of these soldiers. Occupational therapists possess specialized knowledge and skills which make them uniquely qualified for this role. These assets include knowledge of neuromuscular and psychosocial aspects of occupational performance; the ability to do task analyses; the ability to assess occupational performance deficits; the ability to synthesize appropriate therapeutic occupations to rehabilitate functional deficits and match these to the needs of dysfunctional soldiers. These same resources serve occupational therapists equally well in civilian work hardening settings. This paper reviews the management of combat stress casualties, describes the Army units which minimize the impact of combat stress reactions, and delineates the Army occupational therapists' roles of soldier, mental health practitioner, and work hardening coordinator.
An on-site ergonomic program: A model for industry
Authors: Darcie L. Olson
Published: December 2024

Work related conditions caused by overexertion or repeated trauma affect millions of American workers. These conditions can result in time off from work, decreased productivity, and high financial costs, not to mention impairment of the worker. According to the Occupational Safety and Health Act (OSHAct) of 1970 [26], employers are required to provide hazard free workplaces for their employees. Fortunately resources exist to help employers set up on-site ergonomic programs to reduce the hazards that contribute to cumulative trauma disorders (CTDs) or other injuries. Companies that have implemented comprehensive ergonomic programs have reported benefits, most significantly, decreased injuries, and cost savings. A model is described for industry on starting and managing a successful on-site ergonomic program.
Backlash against the inclusion of students with learning	disabilities in higher education: Implications for transition from	post-secondary environments to work
Authors: Bryan G. Cook  , Michael M. Gerber  , Jane Murphy
Published: December 2024

Individuals with learning disabilities (LD), the largest group of people with disabilities in the United States, are attending college in greater numbers than ever before. Post-secondary training is critical for individuals with LD to make successful transitions into a changing and ever more demanding world of work. Research indicating that college faculty are willing to provide requested accommodations to students with LD suggests that they are increasingly likely to experience successful post-secondary outcomes, and therefore improve their vocational prospects. However, college students with LD and the accommodations they receive have recently garnered some highly critical press. These portrayals may portend problems in higher education for students with LD, who must self-identify and make specific accommodation requests to faculty in order to receive the instruction and testing environments that they require to succeed. Efforts to ensure that the LD label is not ubiquitously applied and that college faculty attempt to separate the idea of merit from achievement and implement instructional practices to better meet the educational needs of students with and without LD are recommended.
What rehabilitation counselors should know to assist Social	Security beneficiaries in becoming employed
Authors: Marini Irmo
Published: December 2024

The 1999 Ticket to Work and Work Incentive Improvement Act (TTWWIIA) has opened new employment opportunities for vocational rehabilitation professionals. The legislation minimized longstanding disincentives in the return to work efforts of beneficiaries collecting Supplemental Security Income (SSI) and Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI). Although some of these key disincentives have been eliminated, rehabilitation counselors working with this population will find some interesting new challenges posed by this population. This article will outline the Social Security Administration's SSI/SSDI programs and process for applying; characteristics of beneficiaries; and information regarding the psychological and physiological aspects of beneficiaries with psychiatric disabilities and musculoskeletal disorders.
Building employer capacity to support employees with severe	disabilities in the workplace
Authors: Hagner David , Cooney Bernard
Published: December 2024

Vocational rehabilitation has increasingly emphasized individualized community employment for individuals with severe disabilities. Early approaches were highly controlled by rehabilitation professionals, but research has shown that high levels of professional support can be intrusive, and that businesses are more able to participate in the support process than was initially assumed. This article summarizes recent developments leading to a new generation of partnership approaches that support and build the capacity of employers to successfully employ individuals with severe disabilities. Four innovative approaches – a consultation model of employer support, the development of business consortia, expanding diversity programs, and directing service funding to employers or coworkers – are described and the implications for rehabilitation services are outlined.
Recreational planning: An important component of career counseling	for people with disabilities
Authors: Devine Mary Ann , Koch Lynn C.
Published: December 2024

Participation in recreational activities is a critical component of the career development process, providing opportunities for individuals to explore their interests and to develop work-related skills. Recreational participation also offers a healthy outlet for dealing with job-related and other life stressors. People with disabilities are often excluded from participation in recreational activities because of a multitude of barriers. This exclusion can seriously impede the career development of these individuals. This article explores the importance of recreational planning as part of the vocational rehabilitation process. The authors define inclusive recreation and discuss the implications of recreational planning in the various phases of rehabilitation.
Pockets of opportunity: Multicultural marketing strategies for BEP	growth
Authors: Schaefer Kelly
Published: December 2024

Ranked among the 50 largest food service corporations in America, the Randolph-Sheppard Business Enterprise Program (BEP) represents a challenging and rewarding career opportunity for Americans who are legally blind. In recent years, however, the number of facilities and facility managers has declined. Multicultural consumers represent a major emerging growth market. The multicultural market is one of the most overlooked retail markets in the United States – and the one with the most buying power and growth potential. Multicultural marketing is among the least understood strategies available to facility managers, vocational rehabilitation counselors and BEP directors. Four major minority markets are discussed and marketing strategies are offered to help BEPs target and serve these unique consumers.
Meta-analysis as a tool for understanding existing research	literature
Authors: Fitzgerald Shawn M. , Rumrill, Jr. Phillip D.
Published: December 2024

This article describes the rationale for and methods used in conducting meta-analyses in rehabilitation research. Advantages and disadvantages of meta-analysis, vis a vis the narrative and quantitative literature reviews described in previous articles, are discussed. Hypothetical and actual examples from the rehabilitation and related health sciences fields are used to illustrate points throughout the text.
Personal assistance services as a workplace accommodation
Authors: Stoddard Susan
Published: December 2024

This paper describes current US trends and practices regarding workplace personal assistance services (PAS) as part of available work accommodation options. Workplace PAS include task-related assistance at work, such as readers, interpreters, help with lifting or reaching, re-assignment of non-essential duties to co-workers, and other help related to performing work tasks; and personal care-related assistance such as helping someone with using the rest room, eating, or drinking while at work. The results reported here are based on forty-one telephone interviews conducted in 2004, which included 20 workplace PAS users and 21 US employers familiar with workplace accommodations. Employers and consumers described a range of workplace personal assistance currently used. Barriers to expansion of workplace PAS include negative co-worker or supervisor attitude, cost to employers and workers, waiting time for accommodations, employee attitude and knowledge, and confusing terminology. Development of organizational culture that encourages employment of people with disabilities and developing employer-employee partnerships in arranging for accommodations can contribute to workplace PAS solutions. The survey findings contribute to better understanding of current practices related to workplace PAS.
Occupational musculoskeletal injuries in the health care	environment and its impact on occupational therapy practitioners: A systematic	review
Authors: Alnaser Musaed Z.
Published: December 2024

The purpose of this systematic review was to explore the occupational and personal factors associated with occupational musculoskeletal injuries among health care providers and to identify the psychosocial issues as a result of the injuries. Then, an extrapolation developed to link the potential risks to occupational therapy practitioners. The inclusion criteria that developed from ten articles was based on content from the health and social science literatures. Searches were conducted via internet databases, hard-copy search of bibliographies, and citation review of article references. This review included 22 research studies over the past fifteen years (1990–2005). Classic scientific research studies and classical readings that went beyond the specified period were also included. The review revealed that patient handling was the most common occupational factor to cause work-related injuries. Inexperience and young age were major personal factors associated with injuries. Fear, anger, isolation, inability to perform duties and leisure activities were common psychosocial issues as a result of the injuries. It was extrapolated that occupational therapy practitioners were at risk for occupational musculoskeletal injuries. Future studies are recommended to examine the prevalence and risk factors specific to occupational therapy practitioners.
Unexpected barriers in return to work: Lessons learned from	injured worker peer support groups
Authors: MacEachen E. , Kosny A. , Ferrier S.
Published: December 2024

Some workers who are injured at work have unexpectedly prolonged absences from work. Experiences of workers who constitute a disproportionate cost to the return-to-work system and the systemic and compliance-related barriers they encounter during the process of returning to work are reported. A qualitative interview based study was conducted with 37 members of three injured worker peer support groups in a Canadian province. Four dimensions of peer support were identified: worker experience of being misunderstood by system providers, need for advocates, social support, help with procedural complexities of the workers' compensation, and health care systems. Peer support constitutes a partial return-to-work solution for workers with injuries, but injured workers encounter an uneven playing field. Injured worker peer support group needs and activities show us that sensitivity to structural and social issues may lead to better return-to-work outcomes.
Effectiveness of a screening tool to detect injuries during Army	Health Care Specialist training
Authors: Berg Rice Valerie J. , Connolly Vickie L. , Pritchard Allyson , Bergeron Annette , Mays Mary Z.
Published: December 2024

The purpose of this project was to evaluate the effectiveness of an initial screening and referral process in reducing the impact of musculosketetal injuries among soldiers attending Health Care Specialist training. Musculoskeletal injury among Army Health Care Specialist students have been reported to be approximately 24% for men and 24–30% for women. The highest student visit rate to the troop medical clinic for musculoskeletal injuries, for men and women, occurs during the first week of training. Anecdotal reports indicate that many students arrive for training with existing injuries or symptoms. This project was designed to assess whether formalized early screening, referral, and intervention could 1) identify arriving students who need musculoskeletal injury-related medical attention, 2) reduce the number of students receiving limited duty status during their 10-week training, 3) decrease the total number of limited duty days for students, and 4) decrease the number of students who cannot graduate due to musculoskeletal injury. Students (N=291) from one company were divided into three groups of 97 students. Three methods were used to screen and refer students for medical intervention: 1) traditional (T), 2) by health care providers (HCP), or 3) by Drill Sergeants (DS). Screening by HCP and DSs involved using a new screening tool to identify and consequently refer students with symptoms to a troop medical clinic (TMC) for early evaluation and intervention. Using the screening tool, HCPs identified 92% of students with injuries, while DSs accurately identified 80%. The screening did not reduce the number of students receiving limited duty status, total limited duty days, or the number of students that could not graduate due to musculoskeletal injury ("holdovers") (p>0.05). The screening tool demonstrated good sensitivity and specificity whether conducted by HCPs or DSs. It failed to demonstrate efficacy in reducing the impact of musculoskeletal injuries among Combat Medic soldiers, as measured by limited duty days and holdovers.
Zest for work? Assessment of enthusiasm and satisfaction with the	present work situation and health – A 1.5-year follow-up study
Authors: Josephson Malin , Vingård Eva
Published: December 2024

The aim of the study was to investigate whether assessing zest for work is a valuable approach in occupational health work. The term "zest for work" comes from the expression "zest for life" and can roughly be interpreted as the degree of enthusiasm and satisfaction with the present work situation. The measurements comprise three components: listing important factors for the feeling of zest for work, attitude rating and stating whether it is possible to have any influence over the listed factors. Included in this study were 5539 employees, mainly women. Low zest for work was associated with job strain and insufficient social support and imposed an increased risk for poor health for working and long spells of sick leave. The results support that assessing zest for work can be useful in occupational health work.
Patterns in perceived employment discrimination for adults with	multiple sclerosis
Authors: Neath Jeanne , Roessler Richard T. , McMahon Brian T. , Rumrill Phillip D.
Published: December 2024

Using multiple correspondence analysis, data from the US Equal Employment Opportunity Commission (1992–2003) were examined for types and patterns of allegations of discrimination filed by adults with multiple sclerosis (MS) under Title I of the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA). Women comprised the majority of the Charging Parties (n=687, 67%), and most of the Charging Parties were White (n=769, 76%). The total number of allegations studied (N=3,668) was divided into two datasets, specifically 1,142 occurring separately and 2,526 occurring as part of a multiple allegation set. The four most frequent allegations were related to discharge, reasonable accommodation, terms and conditions of employment, and harassment. Multiple correspondence analysis indicated that a 5 axis model was required to explain approximately 50% of the variance in allegation patterns, and no charging party or employer characteristics were related to the axes. Axis themes derived from perceived discrimination on the part of employers included threats to retention (2 axes), employer hostility, informal or formal employer actions, and barriers to career mobility. Results supported the need for rehabilitation counseling interventions to help adults with MS identify and address precipitants to discharge (involuntary termination) or constructive discharge (voluntary termination in response to an untenable work situation).
Internal locus of control and vocational rehabilitation
Authors: Selander John , Marnetoft Sven-Uno , Åsell Malin , Selander Ulrika
Published: December 2024

In previous studies, internal locus of control (ILC) has been pointed out as a key factor for return to work after vocational rehabilitation. The aim of the current study was to gain a deeper understanding of the concept of ILC in a Swedish vocational rehabilitation context. The study was based on data from 347 long-term sick-listed clients collected at the onset of vocational rehabilitation. A first bi-variate analysis showed that ILC was positively associated with physical functioning and general health, and negatively associated with bodily pain. The analysis also showed that women, more than men, reported high internal locus of control. After a second multivariate analysis, only bodily pain remained associated. It is concluded that there exist a strong and negative association between bodily pain and internal locus of control. Clients with severe pain often also suffer from low internal locus of control. This should be kept in mind when providing vocational rehabilitation.
Assessment of vocational opportunities and continuing job	placement for persons with mental disabilities: Factors indicating levels of	necessary support
Authors: Suzuki Yoshiko , Kikuchi Emiko , Watanabe Shu
Published: December 2024

We determined primary factors in allocating support for vocational opportunities and continuing job placement for clients with mental disabilities. The study analyzed 29 items regarding work attitudes and vocational skills for 70 clients as assessed by the Tokyo Metropolitan Rehabilitation Center for the Physically and Mentally Disabled. The evaluations were performed using the situational assessment approach with a 3-point support scale system assigned through observation of behavior. The results of these evaluations placed 35 clients in employment groups (A and B) and 35 clients in a sheltered workshop group (C). The data was analyzed by multivariate analysis. Predictions of success and functional differences among the groups were indicated by the data. Differences were found among the three groups in work attitudes and skills such as "self-direction" and "directions for social participation". Out of the 35 clients currently employed, 11 were recognized as needing ongoing assistance from supported employment offices. For the supported employment group (B), the major work attitudes and skills for which they required continuous services for maintaining stable jobs were 'emotional stability' and 'learning of working skills and accomplishment of work.' In a previous study, the major differences between the competitive employment group (A) and the sheltered workshop group (C) were in areas of 'responsibilities,' 'goals for life,' 'motivation for the work and understanding of contents for work,' and 'safety during work.' Our study supports these findings. In addition, transition from the sheltered workshop to supported employment required training to improve skills and support for 'responsibilities,' 'goals for life,' 'participation in leisure activities and community-based activities,' and 'preparation and cleaning for work.'
The presence of musculoskeletal disorders among amateur	bowlers
Authors: Ratzon N.Z. , Mizrachi N.
Published: December 2024

Background: With increasing numbers of adults taking part in amateur athletic activity during leisure hours there have been indications that amateur athletic activity may have negative effects on musculoskeletal disease. A literature review focusing on musculoskeletal injuries among bowlers provided only limited references.

Study objectives: Studying the characteristic of bowlers complaining of musculoskeletal disorders in general and of upper extremity cumulative trauma disorders specifically, and locating the factors that statistically predict musculoskeletal disorders among Israeli bowlers.

Methods: The research population includes 98 amateur bowlers who attended two bowling clubs (cluster sampling). Musculoskeletal disorders of the research population were assessed by subjective report using the Standardized Nordic Questionnaires. Further use was made of questionnaires concerning bio-demographic data, work assessment, and the characteristics of the bowling game.

Results: Sixty two percent of bowlers reported the presence of musculoskeletal symptoms in one or more of their body joints during the preceding year. Regression analysis with the number of painful joints in the upper extremities as a dependent variable revealed one main predictor: the number of leagues in which the bowler participated (β = 0.22, p < 0.03). When the dependent variable was the number of painful joints in the entire body, the statistical predictor was the average achievement of the bowlers (β = 0.40, p < 0.001).

Conclusions: Research findings shed light on the unique musculoskeletal disorders of bowlers. Bowlers should be instructed with regard to what are the safe limits of their leisure activities.
Workplace health interventions in small enterprises: A Swedish	longitudinal study
Authors: Vinberg Stig
Published: December 2024

This article has a two-fold approach. First, it investigates relationships between work organizational factors, and health and performance outcomes. Second, it compares two change strategy approaches in workplace health interventions by studying changes of these factors and outcomes. The sample consisted of ten Swedish small enterprises including 102 individuals, who answered a before and after questionnaire about organizational factors and outcomes. The leaders were interviewed and answered a questionnaire about performed workplace health interventions. Statistical methods used were reliability tests, correlation analyses and t-tests. Results indicate rather strong links between indicators of respectful leadership, creative work and team spirit, and the outcome indicators self-assessed health and judged workplace adaptability in association with customer satisfaction. The results concerning changes of determinants and outcomes (after workplace health interventions) showed significant differences between enterprises using a broad change strategy and those using an expert/problem-based strategy with the former having more favourable results. The leader interview results also point at obstacles concerning workplace change processes as lack of resources, insufficient competence and influence of external factors. The study results suggest that work organizational factors and integrated models for workplace health intervention are of importance for health and performance outcomes in small enterprises.
Low back pain and depression: A study in a population of Mexican	workers
Authors: Aceves-González Carlos , Prado-Leon Lilia R.
Published: December 2024

The objective of this study was to analyze whether lumbar spondyloarthrosis is associated with depression. A cross-sectional comparative survey was conducted, in which 99 workers insured by the Mexican Social Security Institute (IMSS, according to its designation in Spanish), ranging from 23–55 years of age, participated. Conditional logistic regression analysis showed that chronic lumbar spondyloarthrosis illness, when adjusted for participation in sports activity, was found to be associated with depression (OR = 3.4; CI 95% 1.2–9.4). This suggests that among those suffering said physical condition there is greater association with depressive symptoms. The study's results indicate the necessity of evaluating all workers with lumbar spondyloarthrosis for the presence of depression, and the suggestion is made that psychological support treatment be implemented in conjunction with physical treatment as a means of preventing depression.
Work injury rehabilitation in Guangzhou: 380 case cohort	study
Authors: Tang Dan
Published: December 2024

Work injury rehabilitation is a new concept in Mainland China. In 2001, the first work injury rehabilitation centre was established in Guangzhou under the management of the Guanghzhou Bureau of Labour and Security. This paper reviews the profile of a cohort of workers with injuries who received rehabilitation services at this centre. The changes in the physical capacity, daily function, and quality of life of the workers with injuries before and after the treatment services were also reviewed. A total of 380 were extracted from the database which occupied 79% of the total patient population admitted to the centre between 2003 to 2004. The assessment results suggested that workers with injuries showed increases in physical capacity in terms of the range of motion, muscle strength and walking tolerance. The daily functioning by using Barthel Index was also improved. Quality of life assessed with the WHOQOL also demonstrated an increase in the physical and psychological domains. Work injury rehabilitation in Guangzhou is at its infancy stage. The cooperation between the rehabilitation centre, employers and workers is of the utmost importance for a successful return to work outcome. The workers' compensation and rehabilitation policy also dictates the future of success of the rehabilitation services.
Job demands and health complaints in white and blue collar	workers
Authors: Schreuder K.J. , Roelen C.A.M. , Koopmans P.C. , Groothoff J.W.
Published: December 2024

Background: General health in the working population is thought to depend on working conditions.

Objective: This survey studied job demands and health complaints in working white and blue collar employees. We expect physical and psychological job demands to be differentially distributed among white and blue collar workers. Do they report health complaints consistent with their working conditions?

Method: Cross-sectional study of 323 white and 383 blue collar workers. They completed the Basic Occupational Health Questionnaire, a valid and reliable self-report questionnaire about health, work and working conditions. The results were analysed using Chi-square and logistic regression analysis, controlling for educational level as a proxy of socioeconomic status.

Results: The questionnaires of 280 white and 251 blue collar workers were suitable for analysis. White collar workers reported higher psychological job demands, and blue collar workers reported higher physical demands. In both occupational groups, low back pain, fatigue and upper respiratory complaints were most common. The rates of low back pain and pain in the lower extremity were higher in blue collar workers, as were regular headaches, pain in the cardiac region and feeling sleepy. However, these relationships substantially weakened when the educational level was adjusted for.

Conclusions: Despite the differential distribution of job demands, white and blue collar workers reported similar health complaints. Health in the working population depended predominantly on socioeconomic status. Interventions to improve general health of employees should be directed at their socioeconomic position instead of working conditions.
Predictors of employment for young adults with developmental motor	disabilities
Authors: Magill-Evans Joyce , Galambos Nancy , Darrah Johanna , Nickerson Christy
Published: December 2024

Objective: To identify the personal, family, and community factors that facilitate or hinder employment for young adults with developmental motor disabilities.

Methods: Quantitative methods with an embedded qualitative component were used. Seventy-six persons between the ages of 20 and 30 years of age (Mean = 25, SD = 3.1) with a diagnosis of either cerebral palsy or spina bifida completed questionnaires addressing factors such as depression, and participated in a semi-structured interview that allowed participants to describe their experiences with education, employment, transportation, and other services.

Results: Almost half of the participants (n = 35) were not currently employed. Hierarchical regression analyses indicated that gender (females were less likely to be employed), IQ (lower IQ associated with unemployment), and transportation dependence accounted for 42% of the variance in employment. Themes emerging from content analysis of the interviews supported the findings related to transportation barriers. Social reactions to disability limited employment opportunities, and participants often felt stuck in terms of employment options with limited opportunities for advancement.

Conclusions: Transportation is a significant barrier to employment and innovative solutions are needed. Issues related to gender need to be considered when addressing employment inequities for persons with primarily motor disabilities.
Disadvantagement-related correlates of career optimism among	college and university students with disabilities
Authors: Hennessey Mary L. , Rumrill Phillip D. , Fitzgerald Shawn , Roessler Richard
Published: December 2024

This paper describes research regarding factors predicting career optimism for a group of postsecondary students with disabilities (N = 208) who were enrolled in seven colleges and universities in four states. Career optimism was defined as a student's self-confidence regarding his or her ability to choose, maintain, and advance in an appropriate career. The proposed model incorporated variables related to employment discrimination and disincentives such as perceived impact of disability on one's education and quality of life, racial/ethnic status, gender, and presence of disability benefits. Results indicated that two aspects of "disadvantagement," specifically severity of perceived impact of disability and racial/ethnic status, were significant predictors of career optimism. Implications of the findings were discussed in terms of informational interventions, curricula, development of self-advocacy and self-determination, and research topics.
History of ergonomics and occupational therapy
Authors: Gainer Rochelle D.
Published: December 2024

Ergonomics is commonly known as "the scientific study of human work" [14, p. 3] and "the application of scientific information concerning human beings to the design of objects, systems, and environments" (p. 4). The American Occupational Therapy Association defines occupational therapy as "skilled treatment that helps individuals achieve independence in all facets of their lives. It gives people the 'skills for the job of living' necessary for independent and satisfying lives [1]." Both professions share common backgrounds. Occupational therapy has been involved in health care and ergonomics is looking for its place in the health care field.
Participatory ergonomics intervention in a sterile processing	center: A case study
Authors: Boynton Teresa , Darragh Amy Rowntree
Published: December 2024

The following case study describes an ergonomics intervention program, designed and implemented by an occupational therapist (OT), which included principles of participatory ergonomics, had full support of management and administration, and addressed the work, worker, and environment. The ergonomics program took place in the Sterile Processing Center (SPC) of a 398 bed, mid-western hospital. The SPC was responsible for the collection, sterilization, and reassembling of hospital surgical equipment. The 30 employees of the SPC were vulnerable to injury, having experienced 19 in only two years (of the 19 injuries, 9 were WMSD or ergonomics-related injuries). Over a two and a half year period, the OT and SPC manager conducted ergonomic evaluations, implemented employee training, designed a new SPC department, and modified work processes and equipment. In the year following the training and changes, the SPC staff experienced no injuries. Because of it's success, the program is continuing on a quarterly basis to ensure new problems are addressed quickly, new processes or equipment are evaluated, and new staff are properly trained.
Workplace discrimination and autism spectrum disorders: The	National EEOC Americans with Disabilities Act Research project
Authors: Van Wieren Todd A. , Reid Christine A. , McMahon Brian T.
Published: December 2024

Using the Integrated Mission System of the Equal Employment Opportunity Commission (EEOC), the employment discrimination experience of Americans with autism spectrum disorders (ASDs) is documented for Title I of the Americans with Disabilities Act. The researchers examine demographic characteristics of the charging parties; the industry designation, location, and size of employers against whom complaints are filed; the nature of discrimination (i.e., type of complaint) alleged to occur; and the legal outcome or resolution of these complaints. Researchers compare and contrast these key dimensions of workplace discrimination involving individuals with ASDs and persons with other physical, sensory, and neurological impairments. Researchers also attempt to discern whether or not the resolutions of the ASD charges can be predicted using the variables available for analysis. The comparative findings of this study indicate that individuals with ASDs were more likely to make charges of discrimination against Retail industry employers. Persons with ASDs were also more likely to make charges of discrimination when they were younger, male, and/or of Native American/Alaskan Native ethnicity. The predictive findings of this study indicate that the odds of ASD charges resulting in meritorious resolution (i.e., discrimination determined by the EEOC to have occurred) increase when the discrimination was encountered in Service industries and by larger employers. Implications for policy, advocacy and further research efforts are addressed.
Polytrauma and life care planning: Managing the complex	interaction of multiple injuries
Authors: Pomeranz Jamie L. , Shaw Linda R. , Yu Nami S. , Moorhouse Michael D.
Published: December 2024

Military personnel, who have sustained multiple injuries, or polytrauma, are returning home with a novel set of challenging injuries and disabilities. These emerging injury patterns require specialized rehabilitation and continual coordination of care. One technique to assess the current and future disability-related needs of an individual who sustains polytrauma is life care planning. The life care plan (LCP) is a dynamic document based upon published standards of practice, comprehensive assessments, data analysis, and research. The purpose of this article is to introduce the life care plan as an established and successful approach for meeting the complex and comprehensive needs of individuals with polytrauma. Additionally this article includes multiple case examples to help illustrate the applicability of life care planning.
Fenyegetés és elrettentés, különös tekintettel a kommunikációra az emberiség hajnalán
Authors: Fári Márton
Published: December 2024

Napjainkban a modern fenyegetési, elrettentési és kommunikációs eljárások ismerete és alkalmazása mind stratégiai, mind pedig taktikai szinten egyaránt természetesnek mondható hadművészeti szempontból. Ugyanakkor a szerző szerint fontos és érdekes tanulmányoznunk az emberiség hajnalán a fenti területeken eddig napvilágra került tudományos eredményeket, mivel azok számos tanulsággal szolgálhatnak napjainkban is.
A veszélyes üzemek környezeti kárelhárítási műszaki követelményeinek vizsgálata
Authors: Kátai-Urbán Maxim , Mesics Zoltán , Szakál Béla , Cimer Zsolt
Published: December 2024

A veszélyes anyagokkal foglalkozó üzemekben esetlegesen bekövetkező súlyos balesetek hatásai veszélyeztethetik a telephely környezetét. A környezeti hatások elhárítása vagy csökkentése fontos üzemeltetői és hatósági feladat. Jelen tanulmányban a szerzők elemzik és értékelik a veszélyes üzemekkel kapcsolatos környezeti kárelhárítás szabályozása üzemeltetői alkalmazásának tapasztalatait.
Videóalapú tűzérzékelés
Authors: Tóth Attila , Tóth Levente
Published: December 2024

A tűzesetek jelentős veszélyt jelentenek az emberi életre és a vagyonbiztonságra, ezért a korai észlelés kulcsfontosságú a potenciális károk mérséklése szempontjából. A hagyományos tűzjelző rendszerek többnyire füstérzékelőkre vagy hőérzékelőkre támaszkodnak, amelyek viszont bizonyos esetekben (például bonyolult kialakítású, tagolt környezetben) nem képesek a keletkező tüzet megfelelő korai stádiumban észlelni. Az elmúlt évek technológiai fejlődése azonban új lehetőségeket nyitott meg ezen a területen. A mesterséges intelligencia (MI) és a videóanalitika integrálása ígéretes megoldásnak bizonyult a tűzjelzési képességek javítására. Az MI-alapú videóanalitika alkalmazása lehetővé teszi, hogy a rendszerek sokkal gyorsabban és pontosabban észleljék a tüzeket, még azok korai stádiumában is. Az intelligens kamerák és a számítógépes látás technikáinak használata révén a tűzjelző rendszerek képesek felismerni a tűz különböző vizuális jeleit, mint például a füst, a lángok és a hőmérséklet-változások. A hagyományos tűzjelző rendszerekkel szemben az MI-alapú megoldások képesek folyamatosan tanulni és alkalmazkodni az új információkhoz, ami növeli az észlelés pontosságát, valamint az intelligens kamerák által gyűjtött adatok valós időben elemezhetők, ami lehetővé teszi a gyorsabb reagálást és beavatkozást. Szintén a rendszernek köszönhetően képesek különbséget tenni a valódi veszélyforrások és az ártalmatlan jelenségek között, így csökkentve a téves riasztások számát. Ez a cikk részletesen vizsgálja az MI-alapú videóanalitika fejlődését és alkalmazását a tűzjelzés területén. Emellett bemutatja a jelenlegi kihívásokat és a jövőbeli fejlődési irányokat ebben a szegmensben, hogy jobban megérthessük az MI és videóanalitika potenciálját a tűzjelzés terén.