bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Sex Differences in Outcomes Among Patients Who Underwent Cardiac Ablation: A Retrospective Cohort Study
Authors: Elias Tony , Elmalh Mena , Girgis Kyrillos , Syed Taha , Beshai Rafail
Published: December 2024

Background Cardiac ablation, encompassing radiofrequency and cryoablation modalities, is a therapeutic intervention targeting abnormal heart rhythms by disrupting electrical pathways within the heart. Despite its widespread use, research focusing on sex-specific outcomes among patients undergoing cardiac ablation remains limited. Understanding potential sex differences in treatment response and outcomes is crucial for optimizing patient care and outcomes.1,2 Therefore, this retrospective cohort study aimed to analyze the national inpatient sample database to assess in-hospital outcomes among patients undergoing cardiac ablation, specifically focusing on sex disparities.

Methods Data from the National Inpatient Sample (NIS) Database for the years 2019 and 2020 were utilized to identify hospitalizations of female patients who underwent cardiac ablation based on international classification of diseases 10th revision codes. Multivariate logistic regression was employed to adjust for confounding variables, with inpatient mortality as the primary outcome measure. Statistical analyses were conducted using SPSS software.

Results The study cohort comprised 25,754 patients who underwent cardiac ablation, including 9,616 (37.3%) females. Female patients undergoing cardiac ablation exhibited a higher prevalence of hypertension (66.8% vs. 51%, P

Conclusions This nationally representative retrospective cohort study highlights the association between female sex and heightened mortality, as well as worse outcomes, among patients undergoing cardiac ablation. These findings emphasize the importance of considering sex-specific factors in treatment strategies to optimize outcomes and minimize disparities in cardiac care.

References 1.Redfearn DP, et al. Sex Differences in Outcomes After Ablation for Atrial Fibrillation: A Systematic Review and Meta-analysis. JACC Clin Electrophysiol. 2019;5(3):296-305. 2.Blomström-Lundqvist C, et al. 2020 ESC Guidelines for the Diagnosis and Management of Atrial Fibrillation Developed in Collaboration with the European Association for Cardio- Thoracic Surgery (EACTS). Eur Heart J. 2021;42(5):373-498.
Redefinindo a luta
Authors: Gonçalves Joaquim Daniela , Rodrigues Pereira Jefferson , Gilberto Araújo de Souza Saulo , Pinto da Rocha Torres Thaís
Published: December 2024

O estudo investiga o impacto da flexibilização das leis trabalhistas brasileiras na atuação do Sindicato Único dos Trabalhadores em Educação de Minas Gerais (Sind-UTE/MG). Desde a reforma trabalhista de 2017, o debate sobre os efeitos dessa flexibilização intensificou-se. A pesquisa adota uma perspectiva crítica, considerando a precarização e o desmonte de conquistas históricas dos trabalhadores como resultados dessa reforma. A reforma alterou diversos aspectos da Consolidação das Leis do Trabalho (CLT), priorizando acordos entre empregadores e empregados sobre a legislação existente. Isso gerou críticas por representar um retrocesso nos direitos dos trabalhadores e fragilizar a capacidade de organização sindical.
O Sind-UTE/MG, uma entidade sindical de grande relevância na educação pública brasileira, é analisado como um caso específico para compreender os impactos dessa reforma. Os resultados indicam que a flexibilização laboral enfraqueceu a capacidade de negociação e mobilização dos sindicatos, afetando diretamente a correlação de forças nas mesas de negociação com o governo estadual. Conclui-se ressaltando a importância da luta sindical para defender os direitos trabalhistas e a qualidade da educação pública no Brasil.
Palavras-chave: reforma trabalhista, sindicalismo, educação, precarização, Sind-UTE.
Desenvolvimento sustentável, a coleta dos materiais recicláveis, desafios da Lei de Política Nacional de Resíduos Sólidos e as propostas da agenda 2030:
Authors: Oliveira de Castro Giovanna , Teixeira Saraiva Maria Eduarda , Franco Loren Dutra , Carneiro de Moraes Bárbara Elaine , Alvarez Saraiva Marize de Fatima
Published: December 2024

O presente artigo tem como tema analisar os desafios da Lei de Política Nacional de Resíduos Sólidos, a coleta de materiais recicláveis e reutilizáveis e os efeitos benéficos desta atividade segundo os Objetivos de Desenvolvimento Sustentável propostos na Agenda 2030. O estudo deste tema é importante para analisar a coleta seletiva dos materiais recicláveis, na cidade de Juiz de Fora e no Brasil e uma maior conscientização da proteção do meio ambiente. Tem como objetivo específico analisar a coleta de recicláveis em uma empresa da cidade de Juiz de Fora-MG e seu quantitativo. Como metodologia trata-se de pesquisa descritiva, com estudo de legislação pertinente que norteia o tema, doutrinas, sites e pesquisa de campo buscando um recorte na empresa RFP, (Recicláveis Floriano Peixoto) de recicláveis na cidade de Juiz de Fora. Para tanto, o presente trabalho abordou inicialmente o estudo sobre Desenvolvimento Sustentável relacionado com  a importância dos materiais recicláveis para o meio ambiente e Agenda 2030 (NAÇÕES UNIDAS, 2015). Na sequência foi analisada e quantificada a Reciclagem no Brasil e em Minas Gerais, a partir de dados pesquisados e elaboração de gráficos. Por fim, foi abordado sobre a Reciclagem na cidade de Juiz de Fora - MG dando destaque aos dados coletados da empresa de Reciclagem RFP em Juiz de Fora - Minas Gerais destacando como conclusão o papel de empresas privadas e associações na promoção da reciclagem e sua importância para o meio ambiente.
Topological Analysis to Enhance the Understanding of Transdisciplinary Engineering
Authors: Thomas-Seale Lauren E.J. , Hawthorn Barnaby , Kombrink Sabrina , Samuel Tony , Bryson John R. , Thomson Harriet , Montenegro-Johnson Thomas D.
Published: December 2024

In engineering, the design of a product relies heavily on a design specification; a co-creation of customer and engineer which captures the requirements. Subjectivity is intrinsic to this process. Whilst engineers typically have a high appreciation of the technical aspects of design, the detailed knowledge of environmental and socioeconomic (ESE) implications are often held elsewhere. As such, efficient and effective design is critically dependent on the processes underpinning knowledge transfer. However, the information interfaces between engineering and the requirements of our swiftly changing civilization remain indirect and suboptimal, and the unintended consequences of design choices are becoming increasingly serious. Transdisciplinary engineering bridges knowledge boundaries interfacing with engineering (e.g. social science). This paper explores whether topology (a branch of pure mathematics) presents an opportunity to analyse the complex interdependency of transdisciplinary engineering information. Topology and geometry describe the structure of objects such as connectedness or the number of holes and have recently provided a suite of powerful and robust tools for analysing high-dimensional data sets. However, the real-world implementation of the term topology is still evolving. Interviews with engineering organisations, revealed that topology is predominately interpreted as ‘Topology Optimisation’ in the context of advanced design and manufacturing. To date, mathematical processes for critically and systematically examining the topology of systems have not been transferred through to the engineering industry. This paper contrasts how topology is interpreted by the engineering industry compared to academic literature and reflects on the opportunities of applying the mathematical theory of topological analysis to transdisciplinary engineering data.
Transdisciplinary Engineering in Customer Behavior Analysis: Integrating RFM Modeling and K-Means Clustering for Predictive Insight
Authors: Lin Pei-Yin , Tanaka Kenji
Published: December 2024

In recent years, the complexity of customer behavior analysis has significantly increased due to the maturity of multichannel and omnichannel purchasing. This study introduces a novel perspective by directly incorporating business practitioners into the analysis process, challenging traditional engineering approaches. In collaboration with the Japanese clothing company Graniph, we conducted an in-depth analysis of consumer behavior using customer data, transaction history, and product information recorded from 2019 to 2022. Our research aims to provide a comprehensive analysis workflow applicable across industries to facilitate interdisciplinary data analysis and interpretation, addressing common challenges encountered in real-world data analysis through practical application. The study is structured into three phases: data preprocessing, optimal customer segmentation, and machine learning training coupled with data visualization. It involves transforming data into a format suitable for analysis, including outlier detection and data rescaling, and integrates RFM time-series modeling with k-means clustering to categorize customers into distinct groups for behavioral analysis. The final stage utilizes XGBoost (eXtreme Gradient Boosting) machine learning to identify category features influencing purchase behavior within different customer groups, presented in order of impact. This approach, exemplifying data visualization, aims to support the development and implementation of new marketing strategies by tracking changes in customer behavior triggered by these strategies. Our research not only contributes to the engineering field by applying advanced analytical techniques in a retail context but also enriches the social sciences with deeper insights into consumer behavior, showcasing the power of transdisciplinary engineering to transform traditional business practices and drive data-driven strategy innovation in the retail industry.
Promoting Cultural Heritage Through a Micro-Business by Means of a Digital Twin
Authors: Bašić Andrej , Majić Tomislava , Stjepandić Josip
Published: December 2024

Over the ages, every nation and civilization has accumulated its cultural heritage, primarily through figureheads such as monuments, structures, and famous individuals. Physical monuments have a unique significance. Digitalization has impacted nearly every aspect of the economy and society by providing a different perspective on the real world. An increasing number of processes are being digitalized as a result of mobile devices’ growing capabilities and declining costs. The preservation and maintenance of cultural heritage have also been embraced by digitalization, which facilitates the management of tangible monuments as inventory items. These “digital twins” have numerous applications once they have been generated. In this paper, we derive the product emergence process of decorative items based on digital twins, which are highly demanded in countries with strong tourism, such as Croatia. Most of these are craft businesses that have been managed for many generations by members of one extended family. The specific expertise is in the processing of stones and metals. A company that employs three people and creates “metal art” would like to grow by adding small-size replicas of any kind of cultural heritage object, such as busts, sculptures, monuments, or profiles. The technique of creating a replica from the desired material in the required scale (1–5) must be developed to replicate the original (physical object, 3D model, or photo). Market entry strategy should be also created, encompassing marketing and license sales to other companies. This paper explains how this intricate procedure was used in a pilot project by using low-cost tools and licenses.
Investigating the Transdisciplinary Nature of Air Traffic Management (ATM) Networks
Authors: Curran Richard , Li Yalin , Zhao Xiaojia
Published: December 2024

The associated research work to be presented will address issues of modelling efficiency and therefore develop insights into the nature and principles of how ATM networks are constructed and how they can be more effectively designed, by using the operational performance nature that becomes evident through the modelling. In general, the paper will present how the simulation tool a) models the network, b) implements the optimisation technic, and c) validates the approach. Consequently, this provides the platform that is then used for two real ATM networks, in both China and Europe as two selected case studies, in order to provide results. At a more fundamental abstract level, such a network is a complex system, or system-of-systems that is transdisciplinary in nature. The inherent design parameters (1) are different and diverse in nature, including aircraft, airports, and routes; the operational parameters and variables (2) are multicriteria in nature, and diverse in units and type; and causes-of-change (3) are disruptive at a mono, inter, and trans-disciplinary levels to effect multi-attribute characteristics and performance metrics that attempt to capture the impact on the network system functioning as designed and planned. Consequently, the authors intend to use the application related to ATM network performance in order to understand at a more fundamental level elements of transdisciplinary science and transdisciplinary performance both in terms of optimal level (capacity) and robustness (performance reduction and recovery).
Multi-Regional Modelling for Energy Systems Optimization for Open Discussion Based on OSS and Open Data
Authors: Sugita Yukihiro , Hiekata Kazuo
Published: December 2024

The recent changes in the energy landscape have been extremely intense and complex, including the global movement toward decarbonization and the growing interest in security and resilience. In this situation, it would be preferable to consider open sharing of information and strategies with multiple stakeholders transdisciplinarily with open data and open-source software. The objective of this study is to clarify whether OSS energy system modelling tool OSeMOSYS and MoManI, which is European oriented application, can handle a model of Japan, where multiple regions are linked with complex interconnections. The basic function of OSeMOSYS is to calculate the configuration of power sources with the lowest cost for target period. In this study, two enhancements were made to this application. Firstly, since there are mechanical limits of ramp up/down rate in actual power generation facilities, new constraint equations were incorporated into model to set upper limits on the rate of changes. Secondly, three types of power supply facilities were arranged into model virtually to connect grids of multiple regions with restrictions. Overall, the optimization results for 2020 roughly reflect the trend in electricity supply by thermal power, hydro power, nuclear power, renewables and others. As for inter-regional transactions, the results reflect regions that receive supply from others (Tokyo, Kansai and Chugoku), regions that send electricity to others (Tohoku, Hokuriku, Shikoku and Kyushu), regions with a mixture of both (Hokkaido and Chubu) and regions with no transactions (Okinawa). The above results show that OSeMOSYS/MoManI can appropriately handle energy system of Japan.
Reframing the Role of Behavioural Interventions: Dominant Views and New Directions
Authors: Yeo Ysanne , Niitsuma Masahiro
Published: December 2024

Behavioural interventions are often used to tackle social issues that seem solvable with some form of behaviour change. However, increasing research points to behaviour change as a fundamentally internal process, raising questions on the limitations of current technologies to produce enduring changes. The gap between existential views of behaviour and existing technocentric solutions prompts us to review the dominant model of intervention and explore new directions to design technical intervention systems. In this paper, we utilise a sociotechnical systems approach to model and reframe the role of behavioural intervention systems. Our model integrates internal aspects of behaviour change into the operational concept of technological systems to discuss how technology could be better designed to adapt to the idiosyncratic needs of individuals and support their behaviour change processes. The resulting model represents a paradigm shift away from operational rigidity in technology development towards system architectures that account for higher-order human needs.
Is continence status associated with quality of life in young	children with Spina Bifida?
Authors: Freeman Kurt A. , Smith Kathryn , Adams Elizabeth , Mizokawa Stacey , Neville-Jan Ann , and the West Coast Spina Bifida Consortium
Published: December 2024

PURPOSE: To evaluate the relationship between child- and parent-reported quality of life (QOL) and bowel and bladder continence among young children with spina bifida (SB).

METHODS: 104 children ages 5–12 years and one of their parents/guardians completed the Pediatric Quality of Life Inventory – Generic Form (PedsQL; parent and child) and the Quality of Life in Spina Bifida Questionnaire (QOLSBQ, parent only). Data on continence, child age, and condition-specific variables were obtained by chart review.

RESULTS: Parent and child QOL scores (on all measures of QOL) were positively correlated; parents rated child QOL lower than children's self report. QOL scores did not differ based on continence status. Total PedsQL scores were associated with age and mobility based on child report and with mobility based on parent report.

CONCLUSIONS: QOL may not be affected by continence status among young children with SB, though demographic (i.e., age) and condition-specific (i.e., functional mobility status) variables appear relevant. Additional research is needed to further evaluate condition-specific variables, other protective variables, and possible measurement issues that influence QOL in young children with SB.
Training in pediatric neurosurgery
Authors: Muraszko Karin M. , Garton Hugh , Song Debbie K.
Published: December 2024

Pediatric neurosurgery is now a well-established subspecialty within neurosurgery with distinct training requirements and its own certification process. Currently there are over 180 diplomates of the American Board of Pediatric Neurological Surgery (ABPNS). Neurosurgeons in training get a limited and variable experience in pediatric neurosurgery over the course of their residency program. For those who decide to specialize in pediatric neurosurgery, a one year clinical fellowship following the completion of a general neurosurgical residency is recommended. The American Board of Pediatric Neurological Surgeons oversees the certification process for pediatric neurosurgeons. Board certification extends for 10 years, after which time recertification is required. The Board is not under the auspices of the Accreditation Council of Graduate Medical Education (ACGME) but is widely recognized as the pediatric neurosurgery accrediting group.
Pediatric rehabilitation nursing: Education and	certification
Authors: Cortes Cynthia G.
Published: December 2024

Pediatric rehabilitation nurses specialize in providing care and services to children and adolescents with disabilities. Although few formal education experiences exist, there are a myriad of opportunities to gain the knowledge, skills, and expertise to provide the care that yields the most benefit to this population. Certification recognizes the nurse's proficiency and excellence in a specialty practice area. Examples of certification options for pediatric rehabilitation nurses include Certified Rehabilitation Registered Nurse (CRRN), Registered Nurse Certification in Developmental Disabilities (CDDN), Certified Pediatric Nurse (CPN), Clinical Nurse Specialist (CNS), and Certified Pediatric Nurse Practitioner (CPNP).
Identifying barriers to occupational and physical therapy services	for children with cerebral palsy
Authors: Cada Elizabeth A. , O'Shea Roberta Kuchler
Published: December 2024

Project Export/Cerebral Palsy Project was a three-year study funded by the National Institute of Health (1R24 MD000509-01) to investigate barriers to adequate and appropriate therapy services for children and adults with Cerebral Palsy who are living in the south metropolitan region of Chicago. This study examined barriers individuals with Cerebral Palsy (CP) and their families encounter when accessing Occupational Therapy (OT) and Physical Therapy (PT) services in the region. The study utilized a 3-tiered investigation system (survey, educational forum, and focus groups) that provided families and community therapists opportunities to identify barriers that impact access to evaluations and ongoing therapy services for individuals with Cerebral Palsy.

The findings revealed a multitude of barriers identified by family and therapist participants. These barriers included, but are not limited to, financial resources, availability of therapists, convenient appointment times, and transportation issues. The educational forum and focus groups were effective in identifying knowledge gaps regarding Cerebral Palsy and strategies for accessing therapy in the region.

Future plans include continuing collaborative initiatives for families and therapy providers. These include community educational forums that are accessible and provide relevant information, opportunities for networking, and advocacy information. The findings of the study will also be utilized to help occupational and physical therapists develop and implement alternative models of service delivery that provide greater access to therapy services for individuals with Cerebral Palsy.
Physical function for children and youth with cerebral palsy: Item	bank development for computer adaptive testing
Authors: Tucker Carole A. , Haley Stephen M. , Dumas Helene M. , Fragala-Pinkham Maria A. , Watson Kyle , Gorton George E. , Montpetit Kathleen , Bilodeau Nathalie
Published: December 2024

The purposes of this paper are to: 1) present a conceptual framework that supports development of a computer adaptive test (CAT) outcome measure of physical functioning for children with cerebral palsy; 2) illustrate the development and refinement of an item bank for use in the CAT; and 3) describe the intended application of these newly developed items in a CAT platform. Improvement in physical functioning is one of the most important developmental and rehabilitative outcomes for children with cerebral palsy (CP). Computer adaptive testing technology provides means to improve outcome measures. We adopted a conceptual framework appropriate to support a CAT of physical functioning consisting of 4 sub-domains: lower extremity skills, upper extremity skills, physical activity, and global physical health. Review of existing tests and measures of physical function, expert clinician review, and cognitive testing were used to identify, develop and refine sets of items (item banks) that reflect the breadth of each sub-domain. These item banks will be used to develop contemporary parent-report instruments by application of Item Response Theory (IRT) analyses, leading to a CAT outcome measure. Such CAT approaches can efficiently assess broad areas of physical functioning across a wide age-range and levels of severity of children with CP.
Cardiac involvement in the dystrophinopathies
Authors: Russell Mark W. , Townsend DeWayne , Metzger Joseph M.
Published: December 2024

The dystrophinopathies are a group of disorders that are characterized by absence or deficiency of functional dystrophin, a large cytoskeletal protein of striated muscle that is closely associated with transmembrane glycoprotein complexes. The most severe dystrophinopathy is Duchenne Muscular Dystrophy (DMD), a progressive disorder of all striated muscle that leads to death via cardiorespiratory failure in the second to third decades of life. Other dystrophinopathies include the similar but somewhat milder Becker Muscular Dystrophy (BMD) and X-linked dilated cardiomyopathy (XLDCM) where the cardiac manifestations predominate. While this review will focus specifically on the cardiac aspects of the dystrophinopathies, the principal elements of screening and monitoring cardiac status are applicable to patients with a broad range of myopathies and muscular dystrophies.
The outcome of intrathecal baclofen treatment on spastic diplegia:	Preliminary results with a minimum of two year follow-up
Authors: Shilt Jeffrey S. , Reeves Susan , Lai Lawrence P. , Wetter Jeremy , Cabrera Michael N. , Kolaski Kat , Smith Beth P.
Published: December 2024

The purpose of this study is to report the short-term outcome of intrathecal baclofen therapy on the function of individuals with diplegic cerebral palsy (CP) and the health-related quality of life (HRQL) of their caregivers. Eight pediatric patients with spastic diplegia were treated with ITB following failed oral spasticity management and were followed for a minimum of 2 years. Physical and functional outcomes were assessed using Ashworth Scores (AS), Physician Rating Scale (PRS), and a subset of the Functional Independence Measure for children (WeeFIM). HRQL was assessed using SF-36, CES-D short form, Impact on Family Scale, Life Orientation Test, Rand Social Support Scale, and Social Desirability Scale. At final follow-up, AS was significantly reduced (all p ⩽ 0.03). The PRS scale showed statistically significant improvement in four out of six subscales: median gait pattern (p = 0.05), median hind foot strike (p = 0.03), median knee position (p = 0.03) and median hind foot gait (p = 0.05). The WeeFIM score improved significantly with a mean increase of 32% (p = 0.03). ITB therapy significantly reduced spasticity and improved the function of these eight children with diplegic CP. HRQL of the parents or the caregivers remained stable despite the surgical intervention and follow-up visits required for pump refills.
Neurobehavioral outcomes in spina bifida: Processes versus	outcomes
Authors: Fletcher Jack M. , Ostermaier Kathryn K. , Cirino Paul T. , Dennis Maureen
Published: December 2024

We review neurobehavioral outcomes and interventions for children with spina bifida. Focusing on children with spina bifida myelomeningocele, we contrast historical views of outcomes based on comparisons across content domains (e.g., language versus visual perceptual skills) with a view based on overarching processes that underlie strengths and weakness within content domains. Thus, we suggest that children with SBM have strengths when the skill involves the capacity to retrieve information from semantic memory and generate material that has been associatively linked or learned (associative processing) and general difficulties on tasks that require the construction or integration of a response (assembled processing). We use a hypothetical case to illustrate the differences in content domains versus general processes and also identify interventions that may be effective in addressing some of the cognitive and behavioral difficulties experienced variably by people with SBM. We extend these general principles to a discussion of variability in outcomes and use data from a large sample of children with spina bifida to illustrate the basis for this variability.
Enzyme replacement therapy for mucopolysaccharidosis VI: Growth	and pubertal development in patients treated with recombinant human N-acetylgalactosamine 4-sulfatase
Authors: Decker Celeste , Yu Zi-Fan , Giugliani Roberto , Schwartz Ida Vanessa D. , Guffon Nathalie , Teles Elisa Leão , Miranda M. Clara Sá , Wraith J. Edmond , Beck Michael , Arash Laila , Scarpa Maurizio , Ketteridge David , Hopwood John J. , Plecko Barbara , Steiner Robert , Whitley Chester B. , Kaplan Paige , Swiedler Stuart J. , Conrad Susan , Paul Harmatz for the MPS VI Study Group
Published: December 2024

Background and Methods: Growth failure is characteristic of untreated mucopolysaccharidosis type VI (MPS VI: Maroteaux-Lamy syndrome). Growth was studied in fifty-six MPS VI patients (5 to 29 years old) prior to and for up to 240 weeks of weekly infusions of recombinant human arylsulfatase B (rhASB) at 1 mg/kg during Phase 1/2, Phase 2, Phase 3 or Phase 3 Extension clinical trials. Height, weight, and Tanner stage data were collected. Pooled data were analyzed to determine mean height increase by treatment week, growth impacts of pubertal status, baseline urinary GAG, and age at treatment initiation. Growth rate for approximately 2 years prior to and following treatment initiation was analyzed using longitudinal modeling.

Results: Mean height increased by 2.9 cm after 48 weeks and 4.3 cm after 96 weeks on enzyme replacement therapy (ERT). Growth on ERT was not correlated with baseline urinary GAG. Patients under 16~years of age showed greatest increases in height on treatment. Model results based on pooled data showed significant improvement in growth rate during 96~weeks of ERT when compared to the equivalent pretreatment time period. Delayed pubertal onset or progression was noted in 10 patients entering the clinical trials; all of whom showed progression of at least one Tanner stage during 2 years on ERT, and 6 of whom (60%) completed puberty.

Conclusion: Analysis of mean height by treatment week and longitudinal modeling demonstrate significant increase in height and growth rate in MPS VI patients receiving long-term ERT. This impact was greatest in patients aged below 16 years. Height increase may result from bone growth and/or reduction in joint contractures. Bone growth and resolution of delayed puberty may be related to improvements in general health, bone cell health, nutrition, endocrine gland function and reduced inflammation.
The model of human occupation and prediction of return to work: a	review of related empirical research
Authors: Brent Braveman
Published: December 2024

The purpose of this paper is to investigate through a review of research literature whether empirical support exists to support the theoretical arguments of the Model of Human Occupation. A literature review of 44 predictive studies of factors influencing return-to-work published over the last 25 years was conducted. The factors most commonly found to be associated with return to work or with long-term disability were then organized according to the subsystems of the Model of Human Occupation.
Rehabilitation outlooks for rural Louisiana: educational	developments, economic trends, and global perspectives
Authors: T. Scott Smith
Published: December 2024

The objective of this article is to examine current medical, economic, and social trends affecting the provision of rehabilitation services for rural citizens with disabilities. While the population of interest is citizens of Louisiana, the concepts are applicable across all geographic boundaries. The article is a review of clinical practice, job placement alternatives, economic trends, and assessment of process applications. It is concluded numerous steps may be taken to enhance the availability and quality of services provided for rural citizens with disabilities: greater statistical inquiry into rural disability trends, increased incorporation of the Internet into all aspects of rural economic and educational developments, further development of distance learning, promotion of sensitivities towards rural cultures, and continued recruitment of rural allied and vocational rehabilitation professionals.
Work rehabilitation programs: a 1997 survey
Authors: Janell Jundt  , Phyllis M. King
Published: December 2024

By adapting to the changing health care environment, legislative reforms, and consumer needs, work rehabilitation programs have experienced a metamorphosis. This study surveyed occupational therapists currently employed in work programs to ascertain a current demographic profile of work rehabilitation programs. Respondents indicated the delivery of services in the areas of prevention, assessment and rehabilitation. The majority of work rehabilitation programs in this study provide services in the form of ergonomics, education and training, and job analyses at the worksite. The area of work injury prevention services is forecasted for increased growth among work rehabilitation programs.
Positive employment service - facilitating employment for people	living with HIV
Authors: Sarah L. Yallop
Published: December 2024

As treatments and therapies develop and improve, enhancing life expectancy, Human Immunodeficiency Virus (HIV) has been described by some as a long term chronic condition rather than an acute life threatening illness. As this change occurs, new issues become relevant for the person living with HIV, employment being one of these. In light of this, the Positive Employment Service was developed and implemented to explore and address some of the issues related to employment for people living with HIV. The original concept for the service was primarily focused on vocational rehabilitation; however, it soon became clear that there was a need for a prevocational service facilitating transition and adjustment to productivity roles. The service was developed using approaches from Vocational and Occupational Therapy Models of Practice. This article discusses the challenges of developing and implementing this service and explores the unique perspective that occupational therapy brings to a position of this kind.
Comprehensive career planning: The VCU Career Connections	Program
Authors: Elizabeth Evans Getzel  , Lori W. Briel  , John Kregel
Published: December 2024

Individuals with disabilities who complete post secondary education programs must be prepared to plan and direct their long-term careers. Despite recent legislation, students with disabilities exiting higher education continue to face obstacles such as negative employer attitudes, architectural barriers, and lack of necessary services and supports when attempting to access employment and pursue their careers. This article describes a comprehensive career-planning program designed to enhance employment opportunities for individuals with disabilities as they graduate from higher education.
Perspectives on scientific inquiry: Ethics in the conduct of	rehabilitation research
Authors: Phillip D. Rumrill, Jr.  , James L. Bellini
Published: December 2024

The article examines ethical considerations related to the design and implementation of rehabilitation research. The authors' primary thesis is that ethical research practice requires rehabilitation and disability studies scholars to (a) adhere to the standards of conduct promulgated in the canons of ethics of such organizations as the American Psychological Association, the American Counseling Association, and the American Rehabilitation Counseling Association in all interactions with people with disabilities and (b) maintain vigilance in protecting the rights and safety of participants in specific investigations.
Frames of reference that address the impact of physical	environments on occupational performance
Authors: Caren A. Whedon
Published: December 2024

A frame of reference is the mechanism for linking theory to practice. It may be the most practical and important tool a professional uses. As the practice of occupational therapy has evolved, so has the basis of information, or theories, on which it is grounded. From the theories, models have been developed that typically view occupational performance as a transaction between the person, occupation and environment. Occupational therapy practitioners use many frames of reference. Not all of them address all areas of occupational performance identified within this overarching model. Often the area of the environment does not receive attention. To do their jobs thoroughly, occupational therapy practitioners need frames of reference for thinking about the environment. The purpose of this paper is to identify and explore frames of reference that may be useful to occupational therapy practitioners when they are taking into consideration the physical environment. Included are the following frames of reference: ergonomics, industrial hygiene, environmental psychology, accessibility and feng shui. A case study is presented to illustrate the unique perspective of each frame of reference.
Case report: a work simulation program for a manual worker with a	fracture injury
Authors: Chi-Chung Chan  , Jonathan H.W. Chow
Published: December 2024

Work rehabilitation programs targeting different client groups are available in nearly all major hospital occupational therapy departments in Hong Kong. Clients receiving work rehabilitation are referred from various out-patient clinics and other occupational therapists. Those clients experience limitation in work after their injuries or diseases and plan to return to work after rehabilitation. Program objectives are 1) to assist clients to reach maximum work capacity as rapidly as possible 2) to ensure clients return to work safely 3) to improve clients' work readiness. This case report describes an individualized work simulation program at a general hospital in Hong Kong provided for a typical client who is preparing to return to his worker role. Specific job analysis, goals and program rationale for the client are discussed.
A model system: Integrated work injury prevention and disability	management
Authors: Dennis D. Isernhagen
Published: December 2024

Effective and cost efficient work injury prevention and disability management requires an integrated process that involves a number of components. Each component needs to be linked into a continuum or system. Components by themselves will not provide satisfactory solutions. This article addresses some of the key components that need to be included in an effective work injury management system. The goals of a management system are discussed and how each component plays a part in achieving these goals.
Prework screen: Is it helpful in reducing injuries and	costs?
Authors: Jean Gassoway  , Valerie Flory
Published: December 2024

A comparison was made between individuals employed as Nursing Assistants (NA) and Certified Evaluated Nursing Assistants (CENA) at Lakeland Regional Health System for one year prior to the implementation of a prework screen and for one year following the implementation of the prework screen. The goal was to determine the effectiveness of the prework screen on reducing injury rates and Workers' Compensation costs as well as the turnover rate for Nursing Assistants at Lakeland Regional Health System.
EADS -- Ergonomics Affinity Design System
Authors: Mark A. Anderson
Published: December 2024

The Ergonomics Affinity Design System (EADS) is a systematic problem-solving tool used to analyze and solve ergonomics issues. The basis of EADS is the identification and ranking of affinities or relationships that exist among the factors that influence job performance in the workplace. The five-step system can be applied to the workplace at varying levels of complexity based on need. It can be used at the design phase or in a redesign/modification application. Applicable for use in any work environment, the system can be an important part of the overall ergonomics process.
Assessment and treatment of chronic work-related pain disorders in	an outpatient university rehabilitation setting in The Netherlands
Authors: M.F. Reneman  , S.J. Dijkstra  , W. Jorritsma  , C. Muskee  , H.R. Schiphorst Preuper  , L.N.H. G\"oeken
Published: December 2024

Points of view of the assessment and treatment of chronic work-related disorders in a Dutch university rehabilitation setting are described. After a general introduction in which the basic philosophy is outlined, medical issues as well as issues regarding two treatment programs and the evaluation of functional capacity are described. The article ends with a brief description of current and future research programs.
Reliability of the Demand-Control Questionnaire for sewing machine	operators
Authors: Williams Renee M. , Sundelin Gunnevi , Schmuck Mary Lou
Published: December 2024

The Demand-Control Questionnaire (DCQ), a 20-item scale that measures psychological work demands, job control and workplace social support, has frequently been used to assess occupational stress. The purpose of this study was to determine the test-retest reliability and internal consistency of the DCQ with sewing machine operators. Forty-six sewing machine operators completed the DCQ on two occasions with an 11-week time interval. A repeated measures analysis of variance model and subsequent application of generalizability theory were used to calculate the test-retest reliability of the subjects' ratings on the DCQ. Cronbach's alpha was used to determine the internal consistency of the scale. The test-retest reliability was 0.33 (95% interval $=$ 0.05--0.61), indicating fair reliability. Good internal consistency (Cronbach's alpha $=$ 0.70) was found. The DCQ appears to be a reliable measure for assessing occupational stress in sewing machine operators. Workplaces need to place greater emphasis on the role of occupational stress in the prevention and treatment of musculoskeletal injuries among sewing machine operators.
The effects of backpack load carrying on dynamic balance as	measured by limits of stability
Authors: Palumbo Nicole , George Brad , Johnson Amanda , Cade Dennis
Published: December 2024

{\it Purpose:} The purpose of this research was to determine if standing dynamic balance was affected by carrying a backpack.

{\it Subjects:} Data was obtained from 50 healthy college students.

{\it Materials and methods:} Limits of stability was assessed using the Smart Equitest Balance Master System(R). Reaction time, movement velocity, end point excursion, maximum excursion, and directional control were measured to evaluate movement, with and without a loaded backpack.

{\it Data analysis:} Reliability was established using an Intra-Class Correlation Coefficient (2,1). MANOVA was utilized to analyze the effect of the backpack.

{\it Summary data:} Movement velocity significantly decreased during backpack loaded trials ( $p=0.004$ ). Directional control was significantly different with respect to direction ( $p=0.006$ ). No significant difference in reaction time, maximum excursion, or end point excursion was observed with backpack loading ( $p=0.10-0.93$ ).

{\it Conclusion:} This study concludes that backpack load carrying has an effect on movement velocity and directional control.
Professional development for university faculty through	service
Authors: Dagostino Lorraine , Carifio James
Published: December 2024

The purpose of this article is to identify the contexts for service that are useful for the professional development of university faculty as well as to suggest a model for delivering the work that is part of this type of professional development. The article accomplishes this goal by examining contexts for service, related activities and transformable skills. The model suggested for developing and implementing service activities consists of three components: 1) an initiating force, 2) ways for testing and sharing ideas, and 3) proposed solutions.
Work hardening: Outdated fad or effective intervention?
Authors: Johnson Leslie Stratton , Archer-Heese Gail , Caron-Powles Deanne L. , Dowson Tracey M.
Published: December 2024

{\it Objectives}: The purpose of this outcome measurement study was to determine the effectiveness of a work hardening program as measured by the participants' work status at three months after program completion. Predictors of successful return to work were explored.

{\it Study design}: The sequential case series design was employed, and data were gathered at three points: the initial work hardening assessment, the discharge assessment, and three months post-discharge from the work hardening program. Seventy-nine participants were included.

{\it Results}: Eighty-two percent (82%) of the clients who completed a work hardening program reported that they were working in some capacity three months after program completion. They listed their employment status in 5 sub-categories. Significant predictors of employment included ``single'' marital status, lower perceived disability scores at program entry, reduction in reported pain during program duration, and funding source.

{\it Conclusion}: Work hardening remains an effective treatment strategy which promotes successful return to the workplace. Ongoing analyses of these programs is imperative.
Non-work factors associated with musculoskeletal upper extremity	disorders in women: Beyond the work environment
Authors: Vroman Kerryellen , MacRae Nancy
Published: December 2024

It is women who are predominantly affected by musculoskeletal disorders of the upper extremities (MSD/UE), especially those disorders attributed to repetitive strain or cumulative trauma. This study focuses on a female sample of supermarket employees and the effects of stress acquired from their non-work environments on the reporting of musculoskeletal symptoms. Stress and life events were shown to be positively associated with the presence of UE disorders and measures of intensity, duration, and frequency of pain. A multifactorial model for explaining the development of MSD/UE in female workers is proferred, while the significance of understanding the inter-relational nature of women's lives is underscored. Additionally, the study lends credence to the physiological underpinning of stress.
The effects of back belts and load on selected lifting kinematics	during a simulated patient transfer
Authors: Willey Marc S.
Published: December 2024

This study used two dimensional biomechanical analysis to examine the effects of back belts and lifting load on selected lifting kinematics during a simulated patient transfer. A human manikin placed in a sitting position was attached to a customized lifting apparatus which controlled the lifting load and direction of the manikin. Eighteen female participants, between the age of 21 and 27, completed six lifts (sit to stand transfers) of the manikin. Three lifts were completed at the 30 lb load condition (no belt, belt 1 and belt 2) and three lifts were completed at the 50 lb load condition (no belt, belt 1 and belt 2). A doubly two way ANOVA found a significant main effect for the belt condition, $F(12,6)=10.06, P=0.002$ . There was no significant effect for load and no interaction existed between belt and load. The results revealed a significant decrease in trunk flexion when participants wore the wider (nine inch) belt during the 30~lb lifts when compared to the no belt trials. No significant differences were found in trunk flexion means with the narrower width (six inch) belt. No significant differences were found in trunk spinal flexion with either belt condition during the 50 lb lifts. There were no significant differences found in either of the belts in the means of lifting time, knee flexion, elbow flexion, forward displacement of the lifter's center of mass, and the lifter's maximum center of mass velocity. The results suggest that wider back belts may be more effective at reducing spinal flexion during patient lifting under moderate load conditions when compared to narrower back belts and to no-belted controls.
Therapeutic Return to Work: Rehabilitation in the workplace
Authors: Durand Marie-José , Loisel Patrick
Published: December 2024

Therapeutic Return to Work is a work rehabilitation program linking graded work exposure with functional restoration therapy for chronic low back pain. This study evaluates the impact of the program on stable return to work (RTW) and compares it with the impact on RTW of three frequently used ways of management of back pain (normative comparison). At two year follow-up, 93% participants of the Therapeutic Return to Work program were working. This rate was higher than in the comparison groups. Although limited by its norm-referenced evaluation design, the results of this study indicate the importance of placing the work site in the center of the of work rehabilitation process. In this program occupational therapists make full use of the client's natural environment.