Type Of Occupation Research Articles

AGE, SEX, AND TYPES OF OCCUPATION WITH HISTOPATHOLOGICAL TYPES IN PATIENTS WITH OCULAR SURFACE SQUAMOUS NEOPLASIA (OSSN) IN A TERTIARY HOSPITAL IN SURABAYA, INDONESIA

Highlights The histopathological types of OSSN were significantly associated with age and occupation. The study's findings enhance the understanding of OSSN in Indonesia and emphasize the importance of UV exposure, occupation, and age in its development. Abstract Background: Ocular Surface Squamous Neoplasia (OSSN) is a spectrum of tumors affecting the conjunctiva and cornea, in which a more invasive type of OSSN has a higher recurrence rate. As a tropical country, Indonesia is constantly exposed to intense ultraviolet (UV) radiation, the main risk factor for OSSN. Despite this, there are very few studies regarding OSSN in Indonesia. Objective: This study aimed to analyze the association between sociodemographic characteristics such as age, sex, and types of occupation (outdoor and indoor) and histopathological types of OSSN to fill the gap in research and contribute to early diagnostic strategies. Material and Method: Sociodemographic and histopathological data were extracted from the medical records of patients who were histopathologically diagnosed with OSSN at Dr. Soetomo General Hospital from 2017 to 2021. Data from 88 samples that met the inclusion and exclusion criteria were classified and analyzed with descriptive statistics and a two-sided Fisher's exact test using SPSS version 27.0 (IBM Corp., Armonk, N.Y., USA). Result: The exact test results of the two-sided fisher revealed a statistically significant relationship between age (p = 0.0004) and occupation type (p = 0.049) with histopathological types of OSSN. However, no significant association was found between sex and histopathological types of OSSN (p = 0.130). Conclusion: Age and occupation were found to have a significant association with the histopathological types of OSSN, reinforcing the need for further exploration of its strength and nature to be considered by future researchers.

Prosthesis Usage and Functional Status in Upper Limb Amputees: A Prospective Cross-Sectional Study.

Introduction Amputation poses significant challenges encompassing psychological, physical, and socio-economic dimensions, impacting individuals and society at large. In India, a substantial portion of the population faces loco-motor disabilities, with amputees forming a notable segment. Prosthetic rehabilitation plays a crucial role in mitigating the consequences of limb loss, aiming to restore autonomy post-amputation. Methods A prospective cross-sectional observational study was conducted over 18 months, from November 2018 to May 2020, involving unilateral upper limb amputees (ULAs) aged over 18 years. A consecutive cohort of 33 patients, predominantly male (30 males and three females), with a mean age of 43 ± 12 years (median: 43 years; range: 20-67 years), was prospectively enrolled in the study. Participants had completed at least one month of post-prosthetic fitment and were actively attending outpatient or prosthetic checkout clinics. The study utilized the Manipal Prosthetic Rehabilitation Success (PRS) score and the Orthotics and Prosthetics User Survey Upper Extremity Functional Status (OPUS UEFS) score to assess prosthesis usage and functional status. Statistical analyses included descriptive statistics, Chi-square tests, Mann-Whitney U tests, Kruskal-Wallis tests, and multivariate logistic regression analysis. Results The study revealed insights into upper limb prosthesis usage in India, highlighting factors influencing the success and challenges faced by ULAs. Associations were found between the success of prosthesis usage and several factors: occupation type (p=0.012), the side of amputation involving non-dominant limbs (p=0.033), comfort level (p=0.002), and prosthesis weight (p=0.029). Comfort level emerged as a primary predictor of usage success. The OPUS UEFS scores indicated varying levels of satisfaction and usage patterns among participants, with some utilizing prostheses for specific tasks while others for broader activities. Comfort level demonstrated a statistically significant difference in OPUS UEFS scores, favoring comfortable prostheses (p=0.020). Additionally, the mean OPUS UEFS score for patients with satisfactory or good prosthesis use was 53 ± 11 (median: 55; range: 22-64), compared to 45 ± 13 (median: 43; range: 18 - 64) in those with poor prosthesis use, with the difference nearing statistical significance (p=0.058). Conclusion The study sheds light on the landscape of upper limb prosthesis usage in India, emphasizing the need for tailored interventions based on individual needs and cultural contexts. The findings underscore the importance of comfort, side of amputation involving non-dominant limbs, occupation type, and prosthesis weight in determining the success of prosthesis usage. Opportunities exist to enhance upper limb prosthetic care in India by addressing cultural nuances and refining assessment tools to better suit the Indian population.

Assessing Quality of In-Patient Care and Patients's Expectations Using A SERVQUAL Approach in A Tertiary Care Hospital in India

Background: Patient satisfaction is a key indicator of healthcare service quality and has implications for the growth and success of healthcare organizations. However, there is often a gap between patients’ expectations and perceptions of service quality, which can vary depending on various sociodemographic factors. This study aimed to assess the expectations, perceptions and service quality gap in a tertiary care hospital using SERVQUAL model. Materials and Methods: A cross-sectional study was conducted among 120 adult inpatients using a semi-structured questionnaire based on the five dimensions of the SERVQUAL model. The quality gap was calculated as the difference between perception and expectation scores. Results: The study found a significant negative quality gap across all five dimensions, with the largest gaps observed in reliability and responsiveness. The study also revealed that gender, age, and education influenced patients’ perception of service quality, while type of specialty, residence, monthly income, and occupation did not have a significant effect. Conclusion: The study highlighted the need for improving the service quality in the tertiary care hospital, especially in terms of reliability and responsiveness. The study also suggested that healthcare managers and providers should consider the diverse expectations and needs of patients based on their sociodemographic characteristics.

PHILOSOPHICAL FEATURES OF THE CHINESE MUSICAL TRADITION. GENERAL ANALYSIS

The article is devoted to the consideration of an interesting topic, the influence of philosophy on the formation of ritual Chinese music, which is taken as the basis for the formation of a unified state culture that creates "correct ethical" views in society. Modern ritualism actively studies all the factors and conditions of the formation, conduct and influence of ritual on society, based on a large volume of heterogeneous material. The researchers identified the principles of ritual formation as a social sacred act, taken as the basis of social practice, where language, poetry, music, power, productive activity, and court are built on the basis of ritual. The ritual allows you to rank society by strata, systematizing it, defining each of its place and types of occupation in accordance with the sacred heritage. This aspect was implemented in the ritual tradition of the Chinese Empire, where the ritual itself corresponded to the creation of the empire from the original chaos. The complexity of the ritual required the formation of a mechanism for the harmonization of the sacred-ritual factor through music, songs and dances, which was realized in Chinese culture through the creation of ritual music, which was included as a necessary element in the system of ritual (sacred) and the structure of society (profane) combining them. The ritual musical tradition arose and developed on the basis of a deep philosophical analysis of the experience of the formation of music and songs of the states of ancient China, conducted by Kung-tzu and his followers. As a result, we have practical experience of centuries-old state development, a powerful cultural system, and an ethnic group capable of development under the leadership of the state. At the same time, ritual music developed based on the integration of the traditional cultural achievements of the Han people and neighboring ethnic groups. The ethical principles embedded in culture by Confucian philosophy made it possible to develop music through the synergy of musical traditions of different peoples. Based on philosophy, the musical structure, lyrics, dance movements were selected and the composition of the participants was determined.

감염병에 따른 주거점유형태별 주거만족도 영향 분석

This study aims to verify whether there is a difference in housing satisfaction among residents of Korea’s largest Apartment Complex by residential occupancy type before and after COVID-19. As a result of the analysis, the satisfaction level of owner-occupiers was high. In detail, the satisfaction of owner-occupiers was high with the tangible factors such as physical characteristics, location characteristics, and management characteristics, and the satisfaction of renter residents was high with the intangible factors such as social characteristics, economic characteristics, and online information service characteristics. In other words, it can be seen that owner-occupiers place importance on the living environment and management, while renter residents place importance on the convenience of using the surrounding environment. The impact of residential environment characteristics of owner-occupiers on housing satisfaction before and after COVID-19 was significant in physical characteristics, location characteristics, and management characteristics. In the case of renter residents, physical characteristics and location characteristic were significant before COVID-19 and online information service characteristics was significant after COVID-19. In this way, since the type of residential occupancy affects satisfaction even in the same residential environment, it is judged that differentiated housing policies with appropriate selection and concentration are necessary.

Investigation of the Relationship Between Occupational Personality Types, 21st-Century Skills, and Teaching Motivation

Investigation of the Relationship Between Occupational Personality Types, 21st-Century Skills, and Teaching Motivation

Prevalence and risk factors of food insecurity among Syrian refugees in Türkiye

BackgroundAlthough Türkiye (Turkey) hosts the largest number of Syrian refugees, studies on food insecurity are limited. This study examined the prevalence and risk factors of food insecurity among Syrian refugees living in Istanbul, which has the highest number of refugees in Türkiye.MethodsA cross-sectional survey was conducted among Syrian refugees in Istanbul between September 2021 and March 2022. The main income earners of 103 households were interviewed by a research dietitian, with the assistance of an Arabic speaking interpreter through hour-long face-to-face. Data on sociodemographic characteristics (age, gender, nationality, marital status, educational status, the family income, the major source of family income, and the number of family members living in the household etc.) and household food insecurity status were collected. Household food insecurity status was assessed with the eighteen-item Household Food Security Survey Module.ResultsThe household food insecurity rate was 90.3%, and those of adults and children were 88.4% and 84.8%, respectively. It was observed that family income level was significantly associated with food insecurity. A one-unit increase in monthly income increased food security by 0.02 times (p < 0.001). The number of employed refugees in the food security group was higher than that in the food insecurity group (p = 0.018). A significant difference was found in the rate of occupation type of the major income earner between the groups (p = 0.046).ConclusionsHigh rates of food insecurity, particularly severe food insecurity, were found among Syrian refugees living in Istanbul. While more research is warranted to explore the root causes and efficacy of the current support system, it requires the immediate attention of policymakers at the national and international levels to implement effective policies and interventions.

Standardizing Patient and Provider Education to Address Breastfeeding Inequity

Introduction: Breastfeeding provides many infant, maternal and societal benefits. Breastfeeding reduces maternal and infant risks for a number of diseases, encourages maternal-infant bonding, is more environmentally friendly and lowers healthcare costs. Based on the most recent Women, Infants and Children (WIC) program data, the obstetrical patient population served by the Department of Ob/Gyn at Southern Illinois University School of Medicine (SIU-SM) was significantly lacking in breastfeeding initiation rates (~16% in 2020) when compared to the Healthy People 2020 goal for ever breastfed infants of 81.9%. We aimed to assess areas of patient care that could be improved upon when counseling our patients about breastfeeding. Purpose: Our primary goal was to evaluate current breastfeeding initiation rates and whether these improved after implementation of the standardized breastfeeding education materials that were to be provided to both healthcare professionals and patients. Methods: In partnership with the Illinois Public Health Institute (IPHI), all patients who received prenatal care at SIU-SM, Department of Ob/Gyn were offered standardized brochures that supplemented our prenatal counseling regarding breastfeeding. Nurses, residents, and other healthcare providers were also provided information on counseling patients. Breastfeeding rates were assessed in our prenatal population prior to and after implementing standardized breastfeeding educational materials (IRB# 22-133) and compared with Chi-square tests. Results: Patient demographics were as follows: 55.9% White, 31.8% Black/African American; 95.7% non-Hispanic; 93.4% utilized Medicaid services for insurance; the mean age was 26.8 ± 6.1 years of age. Baseline breastfeeding initiation rates of ever breastfed infants were significantly higher in the interventional group compared to the control group (75% vs.60%; p=0.002). Breastfeeding rates at the first postpartum visit were also significantly increased after the intervention (65% vs. 43%; p=0.008). A significant increase in the percentage of breast pumps provided in the prenatal clinic was also noted (28.4% vs. 0%; p&lt;0.0001). Conclusions: Breastfeeding rates in our patient population were significantly lower than the Healthy People’s 2020 goal. Raising awareness through this initiative and improving our educational tools via the partnership with IPHI improved breastfeeding initiation rates. As obstetrical providers, we are optimistic about this data, but acknowledge additional interventions may be necessary to improve health equity across our disadvantaged patient population. Future directions include looking at data for ever breastfed infants vs. continuation of breastfeeding through the American Academy of Pediatrics recommended 6 months of exclusive breastfeeding. We would also like to explore how partner involvement and occupation type might impact breastfeeding initiation rates.

Revamping the Role of SMEs’ Digital Financial Management Through Islamic Fin-Tech in Borama

Abstract Small and Medium-sized Enterprises (SMEs) play a vital role in economic growth, particularly in developing countries like Somalia. However, SMEs often encounter financial obstacles due to limited access to conventional banking services adhering to Islamic principles. This study aims to examinate the potential of Islamic Fin-Tech in bolstering Digital Financial Management among SMEs in Borama. Methodologically, the study utilizes quantitative data analysis methods, specifically multiple regression, to examine survey data gathered through purposive sampling. The data is obtained from a total of 2254 small and medium enterprises (SMEs) situated in Borama. Demographic data, including gender, education, occupation, and firm types, are examined alongside the duration of utilizing Islamic fintech solutions. Assumption tests such as normality and multicollinearity tests are conducted to ensure the reliability of the regression model employed. The results indicate a significant adoption of Islamic fintech solutions among SMEs, particularly in recent years. While variables such as Service Accessibility and Digital Banking do not show significant impacts on Digital Financial Management (DFM) due to the internet shortage, SMS Banking and E-Wallet emerge as influential factors that positively affect SMEs' digital financial management performances. Hypotheses testing confirms the significance of SMS Banking and E-Wallet in predicting DFM. The implications of these findings highlight the importance of E-Wallet services and SMS banking in enhancing SMEs' digital financial management. These insights offer valuable implications for financial institutions and policymakers to develop strategies aimed at improving SMEs' digital financial management practices. The study requires for further research to explore additional variables and deepen the understanding of factors that influence SMEs' digital financial management. By understanding the transformative potential of Islamic Fin-Tech, stakeholders can collaborate on designing and implementing measures supporting SMEs, driving economic growth, and aligning with Islamic finance principles. Embracing technological advancements like digital banking and SMS banking can help SMEs overcome financial hurdles and amplify their contributions to economic development. Keywords: SMEs, Digital Financial Management, Islamic Fin-Tech, Borama, Economic development, Fintech, Financial adaptation

Association of self-leadership and epidemic risk perception on quality of life in post-pandemic mainland of China: a cross-sectional study.

Self-leadership has proven to adjust individual psychological states and promote active behaviors to mitigate stress perception and negative lifestyle. This study aims to investigate the relationship between self-leadership, epidemic risk perception, and quality of life among the general public in post-pandemic mainland of China. Two online self-reported questionnaire surveys were carried out with 3,098 and 469 people in the Chinese mainland in February 2021 and December 2022, respectively. The univariate analysis, structural equation modeling, and fuzzy-set qualitative comparative analysis were used to analyze the data which was collected by Revised Self-Leadership Questionnaire, Perceived Risk of COVID-19 Pandemic Scale and World Health Organization Quality of Life Brief Scale. The Self-leadership was directly, moderately, and positively correlated with quality of life (Standardized path coefficients: 0.383 and 0.491, respectively; p < 0.05), and epidemic risk perception was negatively correlated with quality of life (Standardized path: 0.068 and 0.120, respectively; p < 0.05). The structural equation model for self-leadership, epidemic risk perception, and quality of life had a good fit (CFI = 0.957, 0.939 > 0.9; RSMEA = 0.058, 0.064 < 0.08, respectively) and was consistent across genders, educational levels, and types of occupations (Delata-CFI < 0.01). The core condition for achieving a high quality of life lies in maintaining a low level of self-punishment and a high level of self-cueing or a high level of self-punishment and a low level of self-cueing. In the post-epidemic era, the public can adjust their attitude toward stress by enhancing their self-leadership skills. Among various self-leadership skills, self-punishment or self-cueing may have the most significant impact on the quality of life.

Implementation Of Decision Tree Algorithm For Classification Of Eligibility In Social Assistance Fund Distribution

This study examined the use of decision tree algorithms, specifically C4.5, in classifying the eligibility for social assistance fund distribution in Kelurahan Bangka Belitung Laut, Kecamatan Pontianak Tenggara. Inaccuracies in distribution were caused by recipient selection based on village officials' recommendations, which only considered the type of occupation. To address this issue, this study developed a system based on the C4.5 algorithm to process economic census data. This research used a quantitative method with a descriptive analytical approach, collecting data through literature studies and economic census, and processing data using the Rapid Miner application. The classification model generated was evaluated using 10-fold cross-validation to ensure high accuracy. The results showed that the C4.5 algorithm achieved 100% accuracy, precision, and recall. The decision tree model indicated that the main attributes determining eligibility were occupation and income. Some rules derived from this model, such as those who are unemployed with an income below Rp29,500 being eligible for assistance, provided clear guidelines for policymakers. The implementation of this algorithm is expected to improve fairness and effectiveness in the distribution of social assistance funds in Kelurahan Bangka Belitung Laut, reduce public dissatisfaction, and prevent potential social conflicts. This study recommended adopting the model in other areas with adjustments to local data to enhance broader fairness in aid distribution.

Navigating academia: Designing and evaluating a multidimensional recommendation system for university and major selection

AbstractSelecting the right academic major significantly shapes an individual's future career path, making it a longstanding focus of research. The shift to online platforms, accelerated by the challenges posed by the coronavirus pandemic, has transformed counseling and guidance systems. Consequently, developing robust online support systems has become imperative for extending guidance to all students. This article introduces the design, development, and evaluation of “My Future Career,” a multidimensional recommendation system (RS) crafted to aid students in navigating university and academic major selection decisions. The system relies on three key student‐driven parameters: central university entrance exam scores, rankings, and occupational personality types, utilizing cosine similarity and normalized distance to align user and item profiles. Following the system's completion, an assessment was conducted using data from real users, revealing an impressive accuracy (hit rate 100%, precision 88%) in recommendations following the inclusion of contextual post‐filtering features. The findings not only highlight the system's effectiveness but also underscore the positive user experience, as students express contentment with its ease of use and practical utility. The results emphasize the endorsement of expert's regarding the system's consistency (52%), relevance (96%), and acceptance (96%) in providing recommendations.

Disparities in sleep duration and quality by industry of employment and occupational class among Native Hawaiian/Pacific Islanders and non-Hispanic Whites in the United States

ObjectiveTo investigate disparities in the work-sleep relationship between Native Hawaiian/Pacific Islanders (NHPIs) and non-Hispanic (NH)-White populations. MethodsUsing data from a nationally representative sample of U.S. adults (n = 20,828) in the 2014 National Health Interview Survey, we estimated prevalence of short sleep duration (<7 hours) among NHPIs (10%) and NH-Whites for each of 7 employment industry categories and 3 occupational classes. Mean age was 41 ± 0.5years for NHPIs and 49 ± 0.2years for NH-Whites. Women comprised 52% of both groups. ResultsNHPIs were more likely than NH-Whites to report short sleep duration across all industry of employment categories (except for food and accommodation services) and occupational classes. The disparity was widest among NHPI and NH-White workers in the “professional/management" industry category, with NHPIs having higher prevalence of very short (<6 hours; 20% vs. 7%) and short sleep (30% vs. 22%) durations and lower prevalence of recommended sleep duration (45% vs. 68%) and waking up feeling rested (53% vs. 67%). Among the occupational classes, the NHPI-White disparity was widest among participants who held support service occupations. Although professionals had the lowest and laborers had the highest prevalence of short sleep among the three occupational classes in both NHPI and NH-White groups, short sleep duration prevalence was higher among NHPI professionals (35%) than NH-White laborers (33%). NH-White workers across industry and occupational classes had higher sleep medication use prevalence compared to NHPI workers. ConclusionsThe work environment via occupation type may contribute to racial/ethnic disparities in short sleep. Further investigations are warranted.

Periodontal Health Knowledge Levels among Libyan Adult Patients Attending Public and Private Dental Clinics: A Comparative Study

Background: Periodontal diseases can result in premature tooth loss; However, early detection, adherence to oral hygiene practices, and regular prophylaxis can help prevent or minimize the severity of periodontal diseases. Additionally, increased awareness and knowledge about periodontal health can positively influence behaviors related to oral health. Objectives: This study aimed to assess and compare the level of knowledge about periodontal oral health among patients attending public and private dental clinics and to investigate the relationship of their knowledge with Socio-demographic factors. Methods: A cross-sectional study was conducted to assess periodontal health knowledge among Libyan adults. Researchers interviewed 180 adults aged 18 years and older face-to-face. The study focused on demographic factors such as age, gender, education level, occupation, and clinic type. Additionally, a chi-square test was used to explore differences in periodontal health knowledge between patients attending public and private dental clinics, considering age, gender, education, and occupation Results: Socioeconomic status correlates with knowledge about periodontal signs, symptoms, etiology, and prevention. Females, those with higher education, and better economic status had significantly higher periodontal health knowledge. Knowledge increased with occupation level. The 41-60 age group and university-educated individuals demonstrated higher periodontal health knowledge. Females in public clinics were more aware of etiology than males. In private clinics, both genders showed an inverse association regarding the same question, with higher periodontal knowledge found among males. Conclusion: The study showed differences in periodontal knowledge among patients attending different types of dental clinics, with variations based on age, gender, education, and occupation. Better socio-economic status is associated with better knowledge.

Pregnancy Self-Care Gaps Between First-Time and Experienced Mothers in Iraq

This study explores self-care behaviors among primigravida and multigravida women in Holy Karbala City, focusing on managing minor pregnancy discomforts. Amidst hormonal changes that alter the maternal body, understanding and implementing effective self-care is pivotal for pregnant women's health. This descriptive quantitative research utilized a non-probability sample of 350 women across three trimesters, analyzed using SPSS version 26. Results indicate that self-care behaviors were moderate overall and similarly moderate concerning minor discomforts. A significant correlation was found between the women's self-care behaviors and their educational level, occupation, family type, gravidity, number of abortions, parity, and length of marriage, with respective p-values of .001, .002, .004, .001, .002, .008, .050, and .011. The findings highlight the necessity of targeted educational strategies to enhance self-care practices among pregnant women, addressing demographic and reproductive characteristics that influence these behaviors. Highlights: Moderate Self-Care: Both primigravida and multigravida women displayed moderate self-care for pregnancy discomforts. Correlation with Demographics: Self-care behaviors correlate significantly with education, occupation, and family type. Need for Education: Findings suggest enhancing educational programs to improve self-care among pregnant women. Keywords: Pregnancy Self-Care, Primigravida, Multigravida, Discomfort Management

Association Between Sickness Presenteeism and Depressive Symptoms by Occupation and Employment Type During the COVID-19 Pandemic

BackgroundSickness presenteeism (SP) has gained attention in occupational health. This study aimed to analyze the relationship between SP and depressive symptoms by occupation and employment type during the COVID-19 pandemic in Korea. MethodsCommunity Health Survey data (August 16 to October 31, 2020–2021) were used to assess depressive symptoms and SP among workers (n = 221,241; mean age 46.0; 53.5% male). Depressive symptoms were measured using the Patient Health Questionnaire-9, and SP was defined by the ability to rest at home when exhibiting COVID-19 symptoms. Adjusted odds ratios (ORs) and 95% confidence intervals (CIs) of depressive symptoms were estimated using multiple logistic regression analyses for each sex and year stratum. The interaction between SP and occupation on depressive symptoms was assessed using relative excess risk due to interaction (RERI). ResultsThe prevalence of depressive symptoms was higher in individuals with SP than in those without SP (4.22% [n = 696] vs. 1.89% [n = 3861], respectively). After adjusting for demographic and occupational variables, the association between SP and depressive symptoms was significant in both sexes in 2020 and 2021 (OR [95% CI]: 2.18 [1.82–2.62], 2.41 [1.97–2.93], 2.05 [1.77–2.38], 2.47 [2.11–2.88] for male–2020, male–2021, female–2020, and female–2021, respectively). A marginally significant interaction between service workers and SP on depressive symptoms was observed among male workers in 2021 (RERI = 2.37, 95% CI = [−0.04–4.78]) but not in other strata. ConclusionSP is significantly associated with depressive symptoms in Korean workers across employment and occupational types, with a prominent association in service workers.

Two hours to the office, two minutes to the kitchen table: trends in local public-transportation expenditures from 2018 to 2021

The COVID-19 pandemic altered consumer spending on public transportation, including both intracity (mass transit, taxi, and limousine) and intercity (air, ship, bus, and train). According to the Consumer Expenditure Surveys, spending on public and other transportation fell 66.3 percent in 2020. With shifts toward virtual work and school attendance, many commuters’ 2 hours to the office became 2 minutes to the kitchen table. This article examines changes in dollars spent for public transportation, mainly intracity mass-transit spending from January 2018 to December 2021, among various unique demographic groups: urban and rural residency, occupation type, educational attainment, and selected metropolitan statistical areas. Essential workers generally were unable to telework. Simultaneously, private-transportation costs declined in 2020 for all, while affordability rose for many. Gasoline prices fell 46 cents (17 percent) per gallon in 2020, according to the Consumer Price Index. Furthermore, average annual income fell for certain occupational groups and rose for others (income rose 2 percent for all consumer units). A model of indifference curves and budget constraints is used to show which members of specific education groups are likely to substitute private for public transportation. Results in 2020 show that income growth and lower private-transportation costs compared with those of public transportation resulted in increased private-transportation spending of up to 5 percent, with accompanying public-transportation spending reductions of 40 to 50 percent. Although intracity mass-transit spending rebounded in 2021, it did not reach prepandemic levels.

Digital Skills, STEM Occupation, and Job Automation Risks Among the Older Workers in the United States.

Advancing automation technologies are replacing certain occupations such as those involving simple food preparation more than occupations such as those in STEM fields (e.g., engineering and health care). Older workers generally face higher job automation risks in part due to their lower levels of digital skills. A better understanding of the associations between job automation risk, digital skills, and type of occupation (e.g., STEM vs non-STEM) can facilitate preparations for job automation and workforce population aging. We analyzed a nationally representative sample (N = 1,560) of middle-aged and older U.S. workers aged 50-74 years from the 2012/2014/2017 Program for International Assessment of Adult Competencies (PIAAC) restricted-use file. The estimated job automation risks (i.e., percentage of jobs to be automated in the next decades) were derived from the previous studies. PIAAC digital problem-solving skills proficiency (measured on a scale of 0-500 points) was assessed based on a series of practical digital tasks (e.g., finding a job research website that does not require registration). Linear regression analysis showed that greater digital skill proficiency (b = -0.04, p < .05) and STEM occupations (b = -17.78, p < .001) each were associated with lower job automation risks, even after adjusting for a series of demographic, socioeconomic, and civic engagement characteristics. Education and labor policy interventions to promote digital skills among older workers and non-STEM workers may better prepare an aging workforce for the dynamic labor market needs in the United States.

Schmorl's nodes in a historic adult skeletal sample (19th to 20th centuries): An analysis of age, sex and occupation

ObjectiveThis study explores the interplay between age-at-death, sex and occupation and the presence, location and severity of Schmorl’s nodes. MaterialsVertebral columns of 327 individuals, 180 (55.1%) males and 147 (44.9%) females, with age-at-death between 20 and 65 years old, with known occupation. MethodsSchmorl’s nodes were recorded as present/absent and by location and severity. ResultsIn this sample, 58.7% (192/327) of individuals were affected by Schmorl’s nodes, 75.6% (136/180) were males and 38.1% (56/147) were females, with statistically significant differences (p=0.000). Schmorl’s nodes were most commonly found on the T7-L2 (77.1% of all Schmorl’s nodes) vertebrae and at the center (73.4%) of the vertebral body surface. Age and occupational categories did not correlate with prevalence, quantity or severity. ConclusionsMales appear more prone to develop Schmorl's nodes than females. In this study, the prevalence of Schmorl’s nodes does not increase with age, nor with the type of occupation held by males. SignificanceThis study rejects the purported associations between prevalence of Schmorl’s nodes and age and physical stress. LimitationsIt is unknown whether individuals had the same occupation throughout their lives or for how long they performed it. Additionally, it is impossible to access when the individual developed the Schmorl’s node. Suggestions for further researchEvaluate the onset of Schmorl’s nodes in individuals under 20 and explore possible links between vertebral morphology and the occurrence of Schmorl’s nodes.

Prevalence and determinants of multiple chronic conditions (MCC) among young adults in Indian households: an analysis of NFHS-5

BackgroundMultiple chronic conditions (MCC) are defined as the presence of two or more chronic conditions, that significantly impact health status, functional capacity, quality of life, and overall healthcare management. Despite the significant evidence on chronic disease burden, the co-existence of MCC within a household in low- and middle-income countries (LMICs) is less studied. This study therefore estimates the prevalence of MCC and its determinants among adults in the Indian households.MethodsData used in this study were drawn from the fifth round of the National Family Health Survey (NFHS) conducted in 2019–21. Data sets of men (15–54 years) and women (15–49 years) were used for the study. The total sample size of adults for this analysis was N = 239,848. The outcome variable of this study was multiple chronic conditions (MCC) in adults which included a total of nine chronic conditions (hypertension, diabetes, chronic respiratory diseases, chronic kidney disorders, cancer, thyroid disorders, obesity, and heart diseases, consuming alcohol, chewing tobacco, and smoking) documented in NFHS-5. Descriptive statistics and binary logistic regression analysis were used to quantify the results.ResultsA prevalence of 5.5% of MCC in adults emerged from our study. Logistic regression analysis identified that younger age, males (AOR 0.36 (0.33–0.39)), urban areas (AOR 1.11 (1.02–1.17)) as the place of residence, and participants representing SC (AOR 0.89 (0.81–0.97)), and ST (AOR 1.30 (1.17–1.45)), had a higher risk of MCC irrespective of level of education, type of occupation, marital status, or wealth index, and states from any category of social progress.ConclusionA 5% prevalence of MCC specifically obesity, substance use, and hypertension calls for integrated efforts aiming at behavior change, and regulatory efforts to prevent further increase of MCC among young adults in India.