bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Outcome study: An industrial rehabilitation program
Authors: Christine Scully-Palmer  
Published: December 2024

A review of work hardening outcome research reveals a wide range of return to work statistics between 50% are forcing therapy services to objectively quantify their successes to ensure a future in health care. Work Venture has been maintaining program outcome statistics since 1994. In this report, 1997 and 1998 return to work statistics are documented and compared to multiple programs. Work Venture's average annual return to gainful employment percentages for 1997 are 61.2% at 6 months, and in 1998, 76.8% discharge. Many factors are involved in successful return to work with workers compensation claims. Due to these factors it is difficult to compare one program's results with another. It is recommended that a uniform method of collecting and presenting data be developed to ensure valid comparison.
A criterion-referenced multidimensional job-related model	prediction capability to perform occupations among persons with chronic	pain
Authors: Ingrid S\"oderback  , Marie-Louise Schult  , Karen Jacobs  
Published: December 2024

{\it Objective:} The purpose of this prospective study was an exploration of the construct of the criterion-referenced multidimensional job-related model (CMVA) aimed for predicting patients' with chronic pain capability to perform occupations. {\it Methods:} The study samples were 1) participants ( $n=84$ ) who at present were not performing employed work (median sick-listing period 12 months) because of chronic pain and 2) participants ( $n =$ 104) who at present were performing employed work at least 20 hours of a workweek. The participants had experiences of 40 different occupations classified into five of the occupational categories of Jist's Enhanced Dictionary of Occupational Titles. Data were collected through ten assessment instruments and a structured interview, comprising 54 variables and 465 items. Data were analyzed using multiple regression with forward entering of variables. {\it Results:} The CMVA model (Adjusted $R^2 0.777, F (4, 183) = 164.067; p<0.001$ ) was able to explain 78% CMVA contained the aspects; ``the work demands-variable, the person-variable of work life values, the environment-variable of social support and the two occupational performances-variables; self-perceived capability to perform work tasks/the simulated work tasks''. {\it Conclusions:} The construct of CMVA was robust suggesting that among persons with chronic pain, the predictors focusing on their capability to perform occupations are of great importance.
The impact of seating and positioning on the development of	repetitive strain injuries of the upper extremity in wheelchair athletes
Authors: Sharon Stankovits  
Published: December 2024

The population of people who use wheelchairs has been increasing due to technological advances. With this increase, there has also been an increase in participation in wheelchair sports. The incidence of upper extremity injury in wheelchair users has been reported to be between 31 and 73% risk for upper extremity injury due to increased upper extremity use with sport. The purpose of this paper is to ascertain whether proper seating and positioning have an impact on the prevention of repetitive strain injuries (RSI) of the soft tissues, including peripheral nerve entrapments and muscle injury, of the upper extremity in wheelchair athletes. A review of current research on wheelchair propulsion and RSI revealed several hazards for wheelchair athletes to develop RSI's. These include duration of impairment, muscle imbalance, awkward positioning, inadequate rest breaks, repetition of muscle use in daily activities and in sport participation, the degree of force needed for propulsion, and fatigue. Current research does not provide conclusive information on optimal seating. Suggestions of preventative measures are given including suggestions with regard to positioning in the wheelchair.
Identifying meaning and perceived level of satisfaction within the	context of work
Authors: Brown Angie , Kitchell Molly , O'Neill Tiffany , Lockliear Jennifer , Vosler Alyson , Kubek Dayna , Dale Lucinda 
Published: December 2024

{\it Objective:} The primary objectives of this study were to identify sources of meaning for individuals within the context of a work environment, and to compare varied sources of meaning for individuals with high and low work satisfaction levels. {\it Method:} Participants were chosen based on satisfaction levels in employment, full-time employment status within an organization for at least one year, and diversity in the work setting. Data were gathered through a series of interviews and observations of the participants' workplaces. A comparative analysis of transcribed interviews was conducted by the researchers and with an expert occupational therapy faculty panel. From these analyses, the researchers developed work narratives for a mechanical engineer, a high school teacher, an employee of mechanical services, and a career service counselor. {\it Results:} Emerging themes from the work narratives indicated that the various meanings employees found in work had an effect on their perceived levels of job satisfaction. Participants conveyed that organization identification, financial benefits, independent decision-making, reciprocal respect, opportunities for creativity, and maintaining significant relationships outside of work enhanced meaning and satisfaction. {\it Conclusions:} The worker role is a significant source of an individual's identity, meaning, and satisfaction in life. Professionals in various fields can work with employers to develop meaningful work environments for increased job satisfaction, greater motivation for work, increased productivity, and decreased employee turnover.
The stress of the university experience for students with Asperger	syndrome
Authors: Glennon Tara J. 
Published: December 2024

College students, with or without disabilities, are faced with numerous stressful situations within the university environment. For an individual diagnosed with Asperger syndrome, success at this level requires non-traditional supports. With limited knowledge of this disorder, the university staff are faced with a distinct disadvantage in their efforts to outline an appropriate plan. While providing traditional academic assistance is now commonplace, federal laws mandate that universities widen the scope of support so as not to exclude any student from campus activities or programs. In an effort to provide a framework for support, this article interfaces diagnostic information with the realities of college life. Areas of focus include the transition process, social rules, engagement in academic activities, and mastering a new life of independence. It is hoped that the presented suggestions might prove helpful as universities begin to establish service support teams and outline plans of support.
Tibial flexural wave propagation {\it in vivo}: Potential for bone	stress injury risk assessment
Authors: Flynn Timothy W. , Cavanagh Peter R. , Sommer H. Joseph , Derr Janice A. 
Published: December 2024

{\it Objective.} To determine the reliability of tibial flexural wave propagation velocity (FWPV) and the effect of overlying soft-tissues on the result. {\it Design.} The velocity of tibial flexural wave propagation was repeatedly measured in healthy subjects. {\it Background.} The tibia is the most frequently stress-fractured bone of runners and in military training populations. Developing techniques to measure tibial bone strength and, thereby, fracture resistance may be useful in pre-participation examinations in order to identify at-risk individuals. One such method, tibial flexural wave propagation velocity (FWPV) has been reported to be a measure of tibial stiffness. {\it Methods.} The tibial FWPV was measured 80 times per subject (10 trials X 2 setups/day X 4 days) in a sample of 25 young women. Two methods of calculating FWPV were used (Peak method time domain and Phase method frequency domain). Intraclass correlations (ICCs) were calculated. {\it Results.} The results demonstrated that the peak method was more reliable then the phase method. The ICCs ranged from 0.81--0.96 for the peak method and from 0.59--0.89 for the phase method. The 95% confidence intervals demonstrated that the FWPV could discriminate between subjects with low, medium, or high velocity values with reasonable accuracy and confidence. The soft-tissue overlying the tibia was not significantly (p = 0.63) correlated with FWPV. {\it Conclusion.} In summary, it is possible to discriminate between varying levels of tibial FWPV. Furthermore, if FWPV is related to bone stress fracture resistance, then this method may be useful in determining stress fracture risk prior to intensive physical activity. {\it Relevance.} The tibia is the most frequently stress-fractured bone of runners and in military training populations. This study explores the feasibility of tibial FWPV as a potential method to assess tibial stress fracture resistance.
Efficacy of body mechanics education on posture while computing in	middle school children
Authors: Rowe Gretchen , Jacobs Karen 
Published: December 2024

{\it Objective:} The purposes of this pilot study were to examine the working position of middle school children during their media/technology class, test student's knowledge of healthy computing habits, and evaluate the efficacy of two educational interventions compared to a control group. {\it Method:} A multi-group pre-test/post-test design was used. 19 students (mean age 11.6) participated in the study during their media/technology class. Students' postures while computing were evaluated on-site. Additionally five students were video recorded while they used the classroom computers so that on-site observations could be compared to video recorded data. All participants were given a written pre-test prior to educational interventions. The 12-minute educational intervention session focused on healthy computing habits, the importance of stretching, and group performance of specific upper extremity stretches. Additional education regarding overall postural health including good body mechanics was provided to one intervention group. {\it Results:} The results of this study indicate that a twelve-minute educational intervention significantly improved participants' knowledge of healthy computing habits as measured by written pre-tests and post-tests. Participants who received additional education on overall postural health and body mechanics demonstrated the largest rate of improvement in positioning while computing. No statistical difference between intervention groups was noted on post-test scores, which attempted to measure long-term learning of healthy computing habits. {\it Conclusion:} Although more research in this area is warranted, it appears that education regarding correct positioning at computer workstations combined with instructing students on the importance of overall healthy posture may foster correct positioning while students use computers at school.
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.
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.
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.