bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Multiple sclerosis and employment barriers: A systemic perspective	on diagnosis and intervention
Authors: Roessler Richard T. , Rumrill, Jr. Phillip D.
Published: December 2024

Although they have a recent work history, 70 to 80% of adults with multiple sclerosis are unemployed following their diagnosis. This high rate of unemployment constitutes a great loss of potential to the American economy. To help individuals with multiple sclerosis (MS) return to work or retain employment, rehabilitation professionals must understand the barriers resulting in unemployment and implement interventions to reduce or remove those concerns. In this article, Hershenson's systemic model of rehabilitation counseling is presented as a diagnostic scheme for identifying barriers to employment. Counselor consultation on barrier removal via reasonable accommodation is presented as one example of a rehabilitation intervention consistent with the systemic diagnostic model.
Effectiveness of a school-based backpack health promotion	program: Backpack Intelligence
Authors: Goodgold Shelley A. , Nielsen Dusty
Published: December 2024

A prominent school health issue in the United States is the use of backpacks, however, there is a paucity of literature on the effectiveness of backpack safety programs. The purpose of this paper is to describe a school-based backpack health promotion program: Backpack Intelligence, report on its effectiveness, and suggest avenues for future research. Three-hundred-seventy-two 6th and 7th grade students participated in the program which was integrated into their physical education curriculum. Of those students, 242 completed post-education surveys to assess its effectiveness. Pre-education, 44% reported that their backpack was uncomfortable to carry, and 61% reported two or more warning signs that their backpack was too heavy. Only 57% wore their backpack properly and less than half organized the contents in their backpack correctly. Post-education, 63% reported the program worthwhile. Forty-two percent changed the way they used their backpack, and 93% felt knowledgeable about backpack safety, a 24% increase. Both grade and gender differences were found. Areas identified in the literature as fruitful for future research were suggested. Until we have definitive research on the link between backpack use and injury, interventions may be imperfect, but as a society we are compelled to safeguard the health of our children.
Occupational variations in drinking and psychological distress: A	multilevel analysis
Authors: Marchand Alain , Demers Andrée , Durand Pierre , Simard Marcel
Published: December 2024

The relationship between alcohol intake and psychological distress has been overlooked in studies on the working population. Using a multilevel multivariate model, this study reports results obtained from a sample of 8812 workers nested in 387 occupations. Results show that alcohol intake and psychological distress vary significantly at the worker and occupation levels, but they do not show a large variation at the occupation level. Occupational socioeconomic status appears to be a common factor explaining the correlation between alcohol intake and psychological distress at the occupation level. Semi-professionals, middle management, foreman and semiskilled clerical-sales-services occupations are particularly at risk. Gender is related to both outcomes, while work schedule and number of weekly working hours are associated only with psychological distress. Implications and limitations of these results are discussed.
Comparison of ergonomic risk assessment outputs from Rapid Upper	Limb Assessment and the Strain Index for tasks in automotive assembly	plants
Authors: Drinkaus Phillip , Sesek Richard , Bloswick Donald , Bernard Tom , Walton Bob , Joseph Brad , Reeve Gordon , Counts Joyce Hall
Published: December 2024

This paper compares the ergonomic risk assessment of a task for the upper extremities as determined by Rapid Upper Extremity Assessment (RULA) and the Strain Index (SI). The ergonomic risk to the upper extremities of 244 automotive assembly plant tasks were evaluated using RULA and SI. The outcomes of each tool were compared for each task. Results from this study provide practical insight into the methods used in each tool. This study compared only the ergonomic risk outputs from each tool; it does not pursue the question of which tool best predicts injury.

The kappa score was 0.11, indicating little agreement between the outputs of the two tools. This is supported by the lack of monotonicity with a gamma score of 0.1. These results indicate that the risk assessment outcome of these two ergonomic assessment tools for the upper extremities do not agree.
The needs and experiences of injured workers: A participatory	research study
Authors: Kirsh Bonnie , McKee Pat
Published: December 2024

This paper reports on the findings of a participatory research study in which 290 injured workers in Ontario, Canada responded to a survey that was developed and administered by a group of university researchers in partnership with injured worker peer researchers. The objectives of the study were to gain a broad view of the needs and experiences of injured workers and to develop strategies for change. Findings indicated that many injured workers experience undue financial, emotional and physical hardship during the compensation, treatment and rehabilitation process. These hardships are experienced due to perceived lack of respect, insufficient information concerning rights and the return-to-work process, and limited opportunities for input into the medical or rehabilitation process. Recommendations for increasing the power of workers and creating a more supportive climate are included.
The Worker Role Interview: A powerful tool in Icelandic work	rehabilitation
Authors: Ásmundsdóttir Elín Ebba
Published: December 2024

A pilot-study using the Worker Role Interview (WRI) was conducted to gather information from clients attending a work- rehabilitation program in an Icelandic psychiatric center. The work rehabilitation program traditionally used a performance-capacity-oriented assessment (PCA) to evaluate work readiness. Clients scoring 90% or higher on the PCA were considered able to re-enter the job market. However, scoring over 90% did not result in automatic return to work for the majority of clients. As a result, many questions were proposed about the effectiveness of the PCA to predict client ability to re-enter the work force. A pilot study using the Worker Role Interview was conducted with an aim to gain insight into what barriers prevented clients from entering the work force. Ten clients scoring 90% or over on the PCA were interviewed using the WRI. Qualitative methods were used to analyze the data. Results from the WRI indicated that clients failed to join the work force due to a number of psychosocial factors, such as lack of personal causation and self-efficacy combined with environmental factors. The WRI provided clients with an opportunity to express their attitudes and opinions towards work. Information gained through the WRI also gave new direction in goal setting for the work rehabilitation program and validated the need to expand occupational therapy services.
Adaptation of the older worker to occupational challenges
Authors: Moyers Penelope A. , Coleman Shelley D.
Published: December 2024

The occupational adaptation practice model guided the search for and the analysis of the literature on the older worker. The purpose of this literature review was to: identify the occupational challenges that older workers experience, determine ways in which the occupational therapist can promote the occupational adaptation of older workers, and articulate the research and policy changes implied in the model related to health and improved productivity. The analysis of the worker's personal characteristics, work tasks, and environments highlighted the types of occupational challenges that may overwhelm the older worker's adaptive capacity. Straining adaptive capacity of the older worker leads to degradation in levels of mastery. The occupational therapist and others could assist the older worker to achieve relative mastery in response to occupational challenges through ergonomic solutions, training, assistive devices, management policy, and health promotion. Combined efforts of the employer, of the occupational therapist, and of the older work to capitalize on the older worker's years of experience, existing skills, and knowledge facilitates higher job satisfaction, better performance, and an increased sense of well-being in the older worker.
Test-retest reliability of the commercial volumeter
Authors: Dodds Rachel L. , Nielsen Kelly A. , Shirley Andrea G. , Stefaniak HollyAnn , Falconio Mandi J. , Moyers Penelope A.
Published: December 2024

Objective: The purpose of this study was to improve the standardization of the current protocol for measuring hand volume with the commercial volumeter.

Method: A repeated-measures design was used to determine test-retest reliability of the new protocol of measuring hand volume with the commercial volumeter. The new protocol used a height-adjustable table and external trunk support of the participant in order to maintain consistency of web-space pressure between the first and second measurement. A 1 ml micropipette was used to obtain a more accurate volume reading. An intraclass correlation (2,1), repeated measures ANOVA, and standard error of measurement were used to determine the results of this study.

Results: This study confirmed the test-retest reliability of the commercial volumeter and decreased the standard error of measurement to 3~ml as opposed to the current standard of 10 ml.

Conclusion: Clinically, this study is significant in that occupational and physical therapists can detect more subtle change in hand volume.
The effects of a typing task on the hand volume of the older	worker
Authors: Francis Morrisa , Good Genevieve , Johnson Jessica , Lathrop Jill , Ryan Lee , Propst Sarah , Shaw Manali , Moyers Penelope , Beebe Ronald
Published: December 2024

Few studies have examined the relationship between changes in hand volume and typing. Volumetric evaluation documents the presence of an inflammatory response to activity.

Method: To study this relationship, researchers used a convenience sample of 31 participants who were aged 45 and older and worked full time where they typed at least one hour per day. Volumetric measurements were taken before a 15-minute typing activity, immediately after and 10 minutes after typing. Before typing, ergonomic adjustments were made to computer workstations, when necessary. Participants typed using an advanced speed test of the Mavis Beacon Teaches Typing program, which calculated adjusted words per minute.

Results: The data showed no significant (F = 0.321, p > 0.05) change in hand volume resulting from the typing activity.

Conclusion: The amount of exercise provided in this study, a fifteen minute typing activity, did not result in changed hand volume.
Partnering with management to implement ergonomics in the	industrial setting
Authors: Dale Lucinda
Published: December 2024

The purpose of this study was to describe the collaboration among occupational therapy graduate students, faculty, and managers of an industrial organization in developing safety-training materials for workers.

Method: Three managers from an industrial organization sought collaboration from the School of Occupational Therapy. The occupational therapy faculty developed fieldwork experiences and implemented a qualitative research study where data were gathered through interviews, observations, key events, artifacts, and immersion in the field.

Results: Changing workers' behaviors required influence from an organizational level, including manager support and role modeling, safety committee involvement, and a strong presence of occupational therapy in the organizational environment.

Conclusion: Occupational therapists who provide safety training in industrial settings must become partners with workers and managers, and immerse themselves in the organization to plan strategies that compliment the culture. Occupational therapists' interventions for safety training should match the needs and values of the managers.
An older worker's decision to "push or protect self" following a	work-related injury
Authors: Stikeleather Jill
Published: December 2024

This study highlights the return-to-work experience of older workers on worker's compensation as there is a dearth of research in this area.

Method: Qualitative research methods delineated the experience of four older workers who had sustained work-related musculoskeletal injuries.

Results: "Push or Protect Self" emerged as the core category with three themes, including the level of employer support and degree of flexibility in work; continued health problems; and financial distress. These themes influenced each worker's decision to either "push self" to meet their pre-injury work demands, or "protect self" and accept a job post-injury that was less physically demanding, but was at a lower pay level. The four workers sustained financial difficulties subsequent to being off work, and reported continued health problems related to their injuries after being discharged from the worker's compensation system.

Conclusion: Degree of employer support in providing flexibility in work demands varied, where low support and inflexibility in job tasks contributed to difficulty in returning to work or in sustaining the work demands of the job.
Development of the Health and Work Questionnaire (HWQ): An	instrument for assessing workplace productivity in relation to worker	health
Authors: Shikiar Richard , Halpern Michael T. , Rentz Anne M. , Khan Zeba M.
Published: December 2024

Background. Workplace productivity evaluations often involve subjective assessments. This study was performed to develop and validate a new multidimensional instrument, the Health and Work Questionnaire (HWQ), for measuring workplace productivity and worker heath.

Methods. In a prospective, non-randomized study, objective and subjective workplace productivity (measured with the HWQ) was assessed among 96 current, 94 former, and 104 non-smoking volunteer reservation agents at a US-based international airline.

Results. Six HWQ sub-scales were identified from factor analyses: productivity, concentration/focus, supervisor relations, impatience/irritability, work satisfaction, and non-work satisfaction. Non-smokers (individuals who had never smoked) had higher scores on all scales. The HWQ scale scores all correlated significantly with the objective measure "Time Lost"; two of the scales correlated significantly with the summary objective performance measure. Magnitudes of the significant correlations were modest (0.12 to 0.22).

Conclusions. The HWQ may be useful for evaluating the impact of interventions on workplace productivity. Additional validation research on the HWQ is recommended before use as a primary measure in studies of worker productivity.
An online learning course in Ergonomics
Authors: L. (Tamar) Weiss Patrice , Schreuer Naomi , Jermias-Cohen Tali , Josman Naomi
Published: December 2024

For the past two years, the Department of Occupational Therapy at the University of Haifa has offered an online course to third year occupational therapists on the topic of Ergonomics for Health Care Professionals. The development and implementation of this course was funded by the Israeli Ministry of Education. Unique teaching materials, developed and uploaded to the University's server via "High Learn", included interactive and self-directed documents containing graphics, animations, and video clips. Extensive use was made of the discussion forum and survey tools, and students submitted all assignments online. For the final topic, an expert in ergonomics from Boston University delivered a lecture via two-way videoconferencing. The course site included comprehensive library listings in which all bibliographic materials were made available online. Students accessed course materials at the University in a computer classroom and at home via modem. In an accompanying research study, the frequency of student usage of the various online tools was tracked and extensive data were collected via questionnaires documenting students' demographic background, preferred learning style, prior usage of technology, satisfaction with the course and academic achievement. This paper focuses on the results of the research study that examined how the students responded to and coped with teaching material presented and accessed in this format.
Musculoskeletal symptom survey among cement and concrete	workers
Authors: Goldsheyder David , Weiner Shira Schecter , Nordin Margareta , Hiebert Rudi
Published: December 2024

Work in construction is associated with a high risk for musculoskeletal disorders and injuries. The symptom survey was conducted to determine the magnitude and musculoskeletal injury characteristics among the cement and concrete workers and identify the most problematic work-related activities and job factors that might have contributed to the occurrence of these disorders. Findings revealed that a large proportion of the laborers (77%) experienced at least one musculoskeletal disorder in the last year. Low back pain was reported as the most frequently experienced symptom (66%). 'Working while in pain' the concrete workers perceived as the major problem in the trade. Other problematic work-related activities included 'bending or twisting the back', 'work in hot, cold or wet conditions', and 'handling heavy objects'. Most of the laborers (82%) requested on-the-job safety training. Survey results combined with the outcomes of focus groups discussions and work site observations were used in the design of a training program aimed at the prevention of musculoskeletal morbidity in the trade. The program incorporated ergonomics principles, hazard recognition, safe work practices, problem solving and personal protection in the training curriculum for membership of the trade.
Approaches to worker rehabilitation by occupational and physical	therapists in the United States: Factors impacting practice
Authors: Lysaght Rosemary M.
Published: December 2024

Work-related rehabilitation services have changed in nature and scope since their inception in the late 1970s. A review of the literature reveals a large body of published data concerning the various approaches used by therapists in this practice area, but a limited number of comparison studies documenting the value of one approach over the other. This national survey of physical and occupational therapists in the US was conducted in 2002, and examined the prevailing trends in service provision, and factors that determine the nature of services provided to clients. Results indicate that services continue the move to onsite service provision and an emphasis on prevention, but that select services, such as onsite job analysis and comprehensive, inter-disciplinary programs are being used to a limited degree. Research that examines the relative contributions of selected work-related services to successful and efficient return to work outcomes is necessary to identify best practice approaches. Therapists and insurance providers should work more closely in exchange of data that will ensure optimal program design and funding.
Construction workers' perceptions of management safety practices:	A qualitative investigation
Authors: Gillen Marion , Kools Susan , Sum Juliann , McCall Cade , Moulden Kelli
Published: December 2024

Background and Goals: The purpose of this study was to identify perceptions of management safety practices from the viewpoint of union and nonunion construction workers. A complementary investigation was conducted with construction managers.

Methods: A semi-structured interview guide was used to elicit information from 64 workers (95% male) in ten focus groups. Questions were designed to elicit information about management practices that facilitate or discourage safe working conditions, including communication style, attitude, expectations, and unspoken messages. Data were analyzed using thematic content analysis.

Results: Workers identified management commitment to safety, concern for workers, congruence between spoken messages and practice, professionalism, and communication skills as key qualities in successful managers. Workers provided vivid examples of excellent and poor management strategies.

Conclusions: Construction managers play a pivotal role in the definition and implementation of safety practices in the workplace and workers look to them for guidance and modeling. Given the high rates of injury in construction, deeply imbedded protective policies that rely on input from a broad range of stakeholders, including construction workers, should be developed.
Evaluation of an occupational rehabilitation program
Authors: Goodman Glenn , Browning Margaret , Campbell Sims , Hudak Huison
Published: December 2024

Objective: The purpose of this study was to report the findings of a program evaluation for an occupational rehabilitation program in the Midwest.

Method: An ex-post facto chart review was performed on 50 charts using demographic data, results from tests of performance and pain measures, and data from patient satisfaction questionnaires to find evidence of excellence in the program, and to identify areas for improvement.

Results: Over 97% of the participants actually completed the program and 76% returned to work within 3 months after program completion. Ninety-two percent indicated overall satisfaction with the program, and all aspects of the program were rated with a mean score of 4.25 or above on a 1 to 5 Likert scale. Evaluation of perceived pain scales of the participants indicate no discernable relationship between intensity of pain and successful return to work.

Conclusion: The program showed a high completion rate, a high return to work rate, and high levels of patient satisfaction. Suggestions for improvement include an increase in use of real and simulated work activities, better documentation of pain measures, better programs to address psychosocial issues, lengthening the program, and increased communication with case managers and professionals outside of the work program.
Effects of an active ergonomics training program on risk exposure,	worker beliefs, and symptoms in computer users
Authors: Greene Brenda L. , DeJoy David M. , Olejnik Stephen
Published: December 2024

Objective: The purpose of this study was to evaluate the effectiveness of an active ergonomics training (AET) program in computer users. Two constructs from the social-cognitive theory were adopted to provide a more comprehensive assessment of the proximal markers of behavior change.

Method: Eighty-seven symptomatic and asymptomatic employees who worked at a computer for a minimum of 10~hours per week took part in a prospective randomized controlled study. Subjects participated in a six-hour training intervention at their workplace. Key elements of the AET intervention were skill development in workstation analysis, active participation, and implementation of multiple prevention strategies.

Results: After receiving AET, risk factor exposure was significantly reduced for participants at higher risk [F(1,82) = 6.42, p < 0.01]. Significant increases in knowledge [F(1,74) = 8.39, p < 0.01], self-efficacy [F(1,73) = 6.95, p < 0.01], and outcome expectations [F(1,75) = 8.75, p < 0.01] were found in the intervention group. When the participants were stratified according to the presence of symptoms at baseline, the group with pain that received the AET intervention had significantly less upper back pain intensity (z = -2.03, p < 0.05), pain frequency (z = -2.70, p < 0.01), and pain duration (z = -3.25, p < 0.01) post-intervention than the control group with pain.

Conclusion: Results from this study provide evidence that participative training in workstation ergonomics can improve work postures, work practices, risk factor exposure, and pain.
Return to work experiences for veterans with severe mental illness	living in rural group home facilities
Authors: Flinn Sharon , Ventura Donna , Bonder Bette
Published: December 2024

Objective: Independent living services were provided to fourteen veterans with severe mental illness who live together in a rural group home setting. The return to work efforts for three veterans who identified this as a personal goal are described.

Method: Data were collected using The Satisfaction with Life Scale, The Independent Living Continuum, The Minnesota Follow-up Scale, The Recovery Assessment Scale, The Readiness to Change Scale, The Flinn Performance Screening Tool, observation, and informant interviews. Descriptive methods were used to compare and contrast residents who were working vs. those who were not.

Results: Two of the three individuals who were working remained employed after eighteen months. The three consumers who ultimately returned to work expressed an initial desire to be employed and were more likely to participate in performance-based activities than other residents of the group home. The skills and barriers to employment were different for each person due to different interests, skills, and motivations. Likewise, their experiences of finding and attempting to maintain employment differed, both because of their personal attributes and because of situational factors. This suggests the need for individualized vocational rehabilitation programs.

Conclusion: In spite of the limitations of the study, including a small and homogenous sample, the findings can assist caregivers, mental health professionals, and consumers with severe mental illness in recognizing those individuals who are work-ready and who live in this type of supportive environment.
The impact of function on work status for community dwelling	disabled persons with arthritis: An analysis of the National Health Interview	Survey Disability Supplement
Authors: Milidonis Mary K. , Greene Brenda L.
Published: December 2024

Arthritis is one of the most common diseases and a leading cause of disability in adults. Returning injured workers to work and preventing work disability is the primary mission of occupational health professionals. The purpose of this study was to identify risk factors associated with work disability and intervention strategies. This study is a retrospective cohort analysis of secondary individual level data. The data for the study were collected by the National Health Interview Survey, Disability Supplement (NHIS-D) 1995. Community dwelling disabled persons with functional limitations due to arthritic conditions were included in this analysis. A total of 286 records were available for logistic regression analysis. The outcome variable was work status, either working or not working. The significant predictors of working status were ability to lift 10 pounds (OR = 1.64), college education (OR = 0.21), age (OR = 1.03), and less than high school education (OR = 2.48). Thirty-four percent of the variance in working status was explained by the model that also included health status, difficulty standing, difficulty walking up steps, difficulty walking 1/4 mile, ethnicity, and gender. Younger disabled persons with arthritis, who have little difficulty lifting 10 pounds, and have some college education have better odds of working. Occupational health professionals need to look for ways to improve the educational status and functional lifting ability of disabled individuals with arthritis.
Comparison of electromyographic (EMG) activity of selected forearm	muscles during low grade resistance therapeutic exercises in individuals	diagnosed with lateral epicondylitis
Authors: Landis Jamie , Keselman Inna , Murphy Catherine N.
Published: December 2024

Background and purpose: This was a descriptive and exploratory study of electromyographic (EMG) activity of wrist extensor musculature specific to the extensor digitorum (ED), extensor carpi radialis brevis (ECRB) and flexor carpi radialis (FCR) in individuals with a medical diagnosis of the common work associated complaint of lateral epicondylitis (LE). The purpose was to evaluate and compare the EMG activity of the selected forearm muscles during three different types of resistive (strengthening) therapeutic exercises (rubber ball, theraputty, and "make-it-disappear" (MID) sponge) in participants with LE.

Participants: Five individuals between the ages of 44 and 55 years of age diagnosed with lateral epicondylitis by a physician were recruited on a voluntary basis from a local outpatient clinic.

Methods: The participants completed 1 min. of each of the resistive exercises, which were assigned randomly. Muscle activity was collected simultaneously by 3 surface electrodes (4/18/16 DE -2.3 silver surface EMG electrodes, Delsys Inc, Boston, MA) and recorded on an EMG Myomonitor-4 (Delsys Inc, Boston, MA) utilizing EmgCE software (Delsys Inc, Boston, MA). The raw EMG signal was converted to a root mean square (RMS) at each 0.0625 second interval during the full 60 second recording using EMGWorks, (Delsys, Inc, Boston, MA). The data were pooled, and the mean RMS was then determined as an overall measure of activity for each muscle during the 60 recording.

Results: A 1-way ANOVA with Tukey's post-test was completed using Prizm Software (Graph Pad Software, Inc, San Diego, CA) for a comparison of the mean RMS values of each muscle during each activity. Statistically significant between group differences were noted for all muscles, among all exercises. Relative activity was noted to be greatest for ED and FCR during MID exercise, and for ECRB during putty exercise.

Conclusion: All three exercises represent different patterns of muscle activity, for the muscles observed. The possible differences in the recorded activity may be consequent to the specific positioning and movement requirements involved in the performance of the distinct exercises. Practitioners may find the evidence of this study helpful in designing rehabilitation programs for those affected with lateral epicondylitis.
Assistive technology outcomes in work settings
Authors: Schwanke Todd D. , Smith Roger O.
Published: December 2024

Successfully documenting the outcomes of assistive technology (AT) interventions in the workplace benefits people with disabilities, service providers and agencies. However, no work related system currently exists that comprehensively collects the data needed to analyze such outcomes. Part of the reason for this absence of an outcome system is that, while the concept is simple, the process is complex and depends on the acquisition of data that represent many outcomes related variables. This article describes the exploratory work of the NIDRR (National Institute on Disability and Rehabilitation Research) funded ATOMS Project (Assistive Technology Outcomes Measurement System) and its efforts to identify existing data that might be used as the basis for an outcomes measurement system. Sample records from four assistive technology service programs were acquired and evaluated for the data they housed. This study discovered that AT service programs fail to collect consistent or sufficient data for outcomes analysis. However, discussions with AT programs that provided services to State vocational rehabilitation agencies revealed an interesting potential. Assistive technology service data in combination with data collected by State vocational rehabilitation departments might coalesce the needed data. The Federal Rehabilitation Services Administration (RSA) 911 Report aggregates many variables of outcomes related information including employment status and the success of the vocational rehabilitation investment. This combined database could answer a range of assistive technology outcomes related questions of interest to service providers, people with disabilities, and vocational rehabilitation State agencies. This paper describes the data needed in an outcomes system, reviews the data that appear to be available today related to AT outcomes, and projects how data from two diverse programs might be used together to create a significant outcomes database.
Time for change: Can empowerment be a solution to meet the perils	of modern day working life?
Authors: Millet Patrick , Sandberg Karl W.
Published: December 2024

Working life continues to undergo rapid change. This change creates greater demand and sophistication and causes employees to experience more pressure, professionally and personally. Thus, absences from work due to sickness and injuries increase. In Sweden, this problem has become serious.

This article argues that psychological empowerment and individual control are two key factors that minimize the many perils faced by the modern worker and those seeking to return to the work force through the vocational rehabilitation process. The findings show that a shift in ideology is needed. Specifically, there must be a shift from scientific management and Weberian bureaucracy towards organizational structures, routines, and cultures that support and increase individual worker psychological empowerment and control.
Health perceptions of local community works: Network women	describe how flows of energy and space of action generate health and ill	health
Authors: Gustafsson-Larsson Susanne , Hammarström Anne
Published: December 2024

This paper presents a theoretical model on how flows of energy and space of action generate health and ill health in a local community work. Local community work was assessed through a case study of women's networks in a peripheral region of northern Sweden.

The aim of the study was to analyse what participation in women's networks can mean for the members health perceptions. A purposeful selection of women's networks was made for the purpose of carrying out a qualitative follow-up study.

Grounded theory was used to analyse the data and to generate a theoretical model. The meaning of participation in networks proved to be plural, as both health-deteriorating and health-promotive mechanisms were found. Two core categories "flows of energy" and "a space of action" as well as the four ancillary categories: social relations within the network; increased awareness of gender and power; becoming visible; and material prerequisites for networking were grounded in the data.

We suggest that under certain circumstances local community work can be of crucial importance for health promotion.
Do systematic multiprofessional rehabilitation group meetings	improve efficiency in vocational rehabilitation?
Authors: Jakobsson Björn , Bergroth Alf , Schüldt Kristina , Ekholm Jan
Published: December 2024

Purpose: The aim of the present study was to investigate differences in the effects on employment between clients whose rehabilitation was coordinated in systematic multiprofessional rehabilitation group meetings and clients whose rehabilitation was coordinated in the "conventional" way.

Method: The study was based on a sample of 51 individuals who received systematic group meeting coordination. All individuals in the study group were unemployed before the rehabilitation intervention. Two different comparison groups were chosen: one at a local level and another at a national level. The groups were matched on an individual level based on records obtained from The National Labour Market Board (AMS) and The National Social Insurance Board (RFV). The data were analysed by an analysis of variance (ANOVA) for repeated measures for binary responses.

Results: 68.6% in the study group and 49% in both the local comparison group and national group had some form of employment 24 months after rehabilitation. The ANOVA analyses (in terms of odds ratio) found that when all measurement points (6, 12 and 24 months after the rehabilitation) were included in the calculations that there was twice as high a chance of becoming employed after having received rehabilitation services through the multiprofessional group than for both comparison groups. The majority of employment in all the groups was associated with some form of subsidy or sheltered employment.
Organizational and health performance in small enterprises in	Norway and Sweden
Authors: Vinberg Stig , Gelin Gunnar
Published: December 2024

This article focuses on relationships between organizational factors such as leadership, learning, psychosocial work environment and quality aspects as they relate to organizational and health performance outcomes in 42 small enterprises in Norway and Sweden. A rather explorative analysis model was created using indicators that were based on theoretical concepts from a literature review and questionnaire data, concerning 988 employees and leaders. These indicators were then used for correlation analysis. The enterprise is the unit of analysis. Some strong links between organizational factors and organizational and health performance were found. There was also a strong relation between health performance and sickness absence. Using structural analyses, a structure containing six general components, and strong interrelationships between some indicators of organizational performance and health performance were found. It was also possible to position the enterprises according to two general dimensions. As a general guideline for action, the results tend to support the perspective that positive organizational development is related to health performance and a lowering of absence due to sickness. The findings support the strategies of practitioners who use a concept-driven or holistic approach that integrates several facets of workplace development.
A unique collaboration of female medical providers within the	United States Armed Forces: Rehabilitation of a marine with post-concussive	vestibulopathy
Authors: Gottshall Kim , Gray Nicola , Drake Angela I.
Published: December 2024

Uncle Sam's loyal nieces have come a long way from the days of World War I. The development of occupational and physical therapy was heavily influenced by an early relationship with medical specialists during the First World War. This relationship can be considered largely responsible for the eventual acceptance (by the Armed Forces) of women working in this area. Over the past decade active duty women have seen many changes in opportunities to serve and are now stationed aboard aircraft carriers, performing roles previously considered for male personnel. We report a case study of the medical care provided by both military and civilian women working for the United States Armed Forces. Initial assessment was conducted in a battalion aid station of a United States Marine Corp base and the subject was then referred to a military medical center with highly technical vestibular assessment and rehabilitation services. The subject's case represents a unique collaboration of women therapists, enabling a Marines' access to timely and accurate assessment, treatment and ultimately, successful return to active duty. This case study is one of many examples of the acceptance and successful integration of women as providers of medical care within the Military's medical framework.
Internships for women in higher education administration:	Springboards for success?
Authors: O'Brien Shirley Peganoff , Janssen Karen N.
Published: December 2024

Administrative positions within higher education have been very homogeneous, reflecting an institutional culture in which males prevail. In an attempt to encourage women to consider alternatives in administrative positions, internship programs were developed to provide women with opportunities and a mechanism for career advancement. The purpose of this case study was to examine what women did as a result of participating in such an administrative internship program over a ten year time period at a comprehensive university. Interview data yielded consistent results that support existing literature about women in higher education. Trends were identified and recommendations suggested for encouraging more diversity within administrative positions in higher educational institutions. The findings of this study confirm the need for mentoring relationships for women in administrative positions.
Vocational implications of post-polio syndrome
Authors: Elrod Lisa M. , Jabben Merten , Oswald Gina , Szirony Gary Michael
Published: December 2024

Of more than 1,000,000 survivors of poliomyelitis living in the United States, about 80% experience symptoms associated with post-polio syndrome (PPS). New weakness, fatigue, and pain are the most common symptoms that may appear years after acute polio. PPS is reported to be the most prevalent progressive neuromuscular disease in North America. The physical symptoms of PPS can be severe enough to decrease an individual's quality of life, significantly alter work function, and impose lifestyle changes. The psychological implications of battling once again with a disease that had stabilized decades ago can be devastating. Rehabilitation physicians and counselors knowledgeable of post-polio syndrome and its possible impact on employment can have a positive influence on persons with PPS.
Changes in psychosocial and work-related characteristics among	Clubhouse members: A preliminary report
Authors: Yau Eva F.Y. , Chan Chetwyn C.H. , Chan Anita S.F. , Chui Brian K.T.
Published: December 2024

The aim of this study was to explore the changes in work-related abilities of members after attending the Clubhouse program for 12 weeks. The extent to which the changes would contribute to members' performance on simulated work tasks was also investigated. A total of 39 people with mental illnesses, primarily schizophrenia, attending Phoenix Clubhouse participated in the study. Seventeen were newly recruited members to the Clubhouse. The other 22, who served as the control group, were existing members who had been attending the Clubhouse for more than three months. All the participants were assessed by the McCarron-dial System (Observational Emotional Inventory-Revised, McCarron Assessment of Neuromuscular Development), Cognistat, Chinese Work Personality Profile, WHO Disability Assessment Schedule and WHOQOL-Bref-HK at the baseline and 12 weeks after attending the Clubhouse program. They were required to complete a set of simulated work tasks after 12 weeks. New members showed significant improvement in emotional-coping abilities (impulsive-frustration and depression-withdrawal) and work personality (task orientation, social skills, and team work) after attending the Clubhouse program for 12 weeks. The increase in emotional-coping skills (depression-withdrawal) was found to contribute to better performance on typing tasks, whereas emotional coping (anxiety) contributed to better performance on cleansing tasks. Three months' participation in the Clubhouse program appears to have positive effects on emotional-coping abilities and work personality. The emotional-coping abilities were found to predict good performance in simulated clerical and maintenance jobs. Recommendations and suggestions for further research are discussed.
Outcome evaluation of work hardening program for manual workers	with work-related back injury
Authors: Sang Lau Shun , Eria Li Ping Ying
Published: December 2024

Objective: The purpose of this study was to investigate the effectiveness of a 12-week work hardening program designed for back injured workers.

Study design: In this study, 32 subjects were recruited. Pre- and post-assessment results were used to measure the program effectiveness. The intensity of the work hardening program was based on the overloading training principle. Subjects were contacted by phone three months after the program completion for their work status.

Result: The findings of this study suggested that there was a significant difference in the subjects' physical demand characteristic level before and after the work hardening program. Seventy-five percent of the subjects who completed the work hardening program were able to resume employment.

Conclusion: The rate of returning to work for back injured workers in this study was comparable to that of other studies. Thus, this study suggests that the overloading principle should be used in designing a work hardening program to improve clients' physical function.
Barriers to returning to work for people with spinal cord	injuries: A focus group study
Authors: Chan Simon K.K. , Man David W.K.
Published: December 2024

The rate of employment for people with spinal cord injuries is relatively low, especially among Asians. To help individuals with spinal cord injuries return to work or retain employment, rehabilitation professionals must understand the barriers to employment and intervene to reduce or remove them. Hence, a focus group study was administered to 16 people with spinal cord injuries to explore return to work barriers. Various ideas, beliefs, responses, and values at different stages of work resettlement were elicited from both employed and unemployed participants, and then summarized. According to the results, several modifications of existing forms of rehabilitation intervention are necessary, as are further research directions.
Prediction of vocational outcome of people with brain injury after	rehabilitation: A discriminant analysis
Authors: Leung K.L. , Man David W.K.
Published: December 2024

Due to advancements in emergency evacuation procedures and neurosurgical techniques, more patients with brain injury (BI) can survive cerebral injury and regain a satisfactory degree of recovery through rehabilitation. Their improvement in physical and cognitive functions can facilitate their reintegration into the community, especially their return to work (RTW). Different factors were reported to affect this rate of RTW in previous studies. This retrospective study thus aimed to investigate the role of demographic data, the severity of injury, residual physical deficits, activities of daily living, and cognitive function using a stepwise discriminant function analysis (DFA). Data sets for 79 persons with BI were retrieved so as to identify predictors of their vocational outcomes upon discharge and during a follow-up period. The stepwise DFA revealed that the discharge score on the Disability Rating Scale (DRS), the attention-subtest of the Neurobehavioral Cognitive Status Examination (NCSE) or Cognistat, and pre-morbid occupation were significant predictors that correctly classified 65.8% of the subjects
Drivers of workplace discrimination against people with	disabilities: The utility of Attribution Theory
Authors: Chan Fong , McMahon Brian T. , Cheing Gladys , Rosenthal David A. , Bezyak Jill
Published: December 2024

The purpose of this paper was to determine what drives workplace discrimination against people with disabilities. These findings are then compared to available literature on attribution theory, which concerns itself with public perceptions of the controllability and stability of various impairments. The sample included 35,763 allegations of discriminations filed by people with disabilities under the employment provisions of the Americans with Disabilities Act. Group A included impairments deemed by Corrigan et al. [1988] to be uncontrollable but stable: visual impairment (representing 13% of the total allegations in this study), cancer (12%), cardiovascular disease (19%), and spinal cord injuries (5%). The controllable but unstable impairments in group B included depression (38%), schizophrenia (2%), alcohol and other drug abuse (4%), and HIV/AIDS (7%). The Equal Employment Opportunity Commission had resolved all allegations in terms of merit Resolutions (a positive finding of discrimination) and Resolutions without merit. Allegations of workplace discrimination were found to center mainly on hiring, discharge, harassment, and reasonable accommodation issues. Perceived workplace discrimination (as measured by allegations filed with EEOC) does occur at higher levels in Group B, especially when serious issues involving discharge and disability harassment are involved. With the glaring exception of HIV/AIDS, however, actual discrimination (as measured by EEOC merit Resolutions) occurs at higher levels for Group A.