• Safety and Health at Work
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• v.9 no.2
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• pp.172-179
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• 2018

Background: Insufficient training in infection control and occupational health among healthcare workers (HCWs) in countries with high human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) and tuberculosis (TB) burdens requires attention. We examined the effectiveness of a 1-year Certificate Program in Occupational Health and Infection Control conducted in Free State Province, South Africa in an international partnership to empower HCWs to become change agents to promote workplace-based HIV and TB prevention. Methods: Questionnaires assessing reactions to the program and Knowledge, Attitudes, Skills, and Practices were collected pre-, mid-, and postprogram. Individual interviews, group project evaluations, and participant observation were also conducted. Quantitative data were analyzed using Wilcoxon signed-rank test. Qualitative data were thematically coded and analyzed using the Kirkpatrick framework. Results: Participants recruited (n = 32) were mostly female (81%) and nurses (56%). Pre-to-post-program mean scores improved in knowledge (+12%, p = 0.002) and skills/practices (+14%, p = 0.002). Preprogram attitude scores were high but did not change. Participants felt empowered and demonstrated attitudinal improvements regarding HIV, TB, infection control, and occupational health. Successful projects were indeed implemented. However, participants encountered considerable difficulties in trying to sustain improvement, due largely to lack of pre-existing knowledge and experience, combined with inadequate staffing and insufficient management support. Conclusion: Training is essential to strengthen HCWs' occupational health and infection control knowledge, attitudes, skills, and practices, and workplace-based training programs such as this can yield impressive results. However, the considerable mentorship resources required for such programs and the substantial infrastructural supports needed for implementation and sustainability of improvements in settings without pre-existing experience in such endeavors should not be underestimated.

• Journal of the Ergonomics Society of Korea
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• v.22 no.1
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• pp.31-42
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• 2003

This study describes a modification of the technique for human error analysis in nuclear power plants (NPPs) which adopts advanced Man-Machine Interface (MMI) features based on computerized working environment, such as LCOs. Flat Panels. Large Wall Board, and computerized procedures. Firstly, the state of the art on human error analysis methods and efforts were briefly reviewed. Human error analysis method applied to NPP design has been THERP and ASEP mainly utilizing Swain's HRA handbook, which has not been facilitated enough to put the varied characteristics of MMI into HRA process. The basic concepts on human errors and the system safety approach were revisited, and adopted the process of FMEA with the new definition of Error Segment (ESJ. A modified human error analysis process was suggested. Then, the suggested method was applied to the failure of manual pump actuation through LCD touch screen in loss of feed water event in order to verify the applicability of the proposed method in practices. The example showed that the method become more facilitated to consider the concerns of the introduction of advanced MMI devices, and to integrate human error analysis process not only into HRA/PRA but also into the MMI and interface design. Finally, the possible extensions and further efforts required to obtain the applicability of the suggested method were discussed.

• Toxicological Research
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• v.26 no.4
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• pp.301-313
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• 2010

Growth promoters including hormonal substances and antibiotics are used legally and illegally in food producing animals for the growth promotion of livestock animals. Hormonal substances still under debate in terms of their human health impacts are estradiol-$17\beta$, progesterone, testosterone, zeranol, trenbolone, and melengestrol acetate (MGA). Many of the risk assessment results of natural steroid hormones have presented negligible impacts when they are used under good veterinary practices. For synthetic hormonelike substances, ADIs and MRLs have been established for food safety along with the approval of animal treatment. Small amounts of antibiotics added to feedstuff present growth promotion effects via the prevention of infectious diseases at doses lower than therapeutic dose. The induction of antimicrobial resistant bacteria and the disruption of normal human intestinal flora are major concerns in terms of human health impact. Regulatory guidance such as ADIs and MRLs fully reflect the impact on human gastrointestinal microflora. However, before deciding on any risk management options, risk assessments of antimicrobial resistance require large-scale evidence regarding the relationship between antimicrobial use in food-producing animals and the occurrence of antimicrobial resistance in human pathogens. In this article, the risk profiles of hormonal and antibacterial growth promoters are provided based on recent toxicity and human exposure information, and recommendations for risk management to prevent human health impacts by the use of growth promoters are also presented.

• Asian Pacific Journal of Cancer Prevention
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• v.14 no.6
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• pp.3641-3645
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• 2013

Background: Assessment of the nursing staff knowledge, attitude and practices about cervical cancer screening in a tertiary care teaching institute of rural India. Materials and Methods: A cross sectional, descriptive, interview-based survey was conducted with a pretested questionnaire among 262 staff nurses of a tertiary care teaching and research institute. Results: In this study 77% respondents knew that Pap smear is used for detection of cervical cancer, but less than half knew that Pap smear can detect even precancerous lesions of cervix. Only 23.4% knew human papilloma virus infection as a risk factor. Only 26.7% of the respondents were judged as having adequate knowledge based on scores allotted for questions evaluating knowledge about cervical cancer and screening. Only 17 (7%) of the staff nurses had themselves been screened by Pap smear, while 85% had never taken a Pap smear of a patient. Adequate knowledge of cervical cancer and screening, higher parity and age >30 years were significantly associated with self screening for cervical cancer. Most nurese held a view that Pap test is a doctor procedure, and nearly 90% of nurses had never referred a patient for Pap testing. Conclusions: The majority of nursing staff in rural India may have inadequate knowledge about cervical cancer screening, and their attitude and practices towards cervical cancer screening could not be termed positive.

• Journal of Nutrition and Health
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• v.49 no.1
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• pp.8-17
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• 2016

Purpose: The aim of this study is to summarize and report on the change of food allergy in elementary school students and perception and practices in school nutritionists in Korea from 1995 to 2015. Methods: The search strategy was "(food allergy AND elementary school AND Korea) AND (nutritionist OR perception OR practice)". The search was conducted via KISS, DBPIA, RISS, NDSL, PubMed, Scopus, and Google scholar and full text and abstracts on the topic of food allergy evaluating prevalence, allergen, symptom, perception and practices were included in this review. Results: Out of 1379 records found in the sources, 13 related studies were included in the final analysis. The results showed that the number of students who had experienced food allergy was increasing. The two frequent allergenic foods were eggs and milk. The perception and practices of food allergy in school nutritionists was gradually increased. Conclusion: Further objective evaluations are required to confirm the food allergy status and its management in school.

• International Journal of Human Ecology
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• v.17 no.1
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• pp.39-51
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• 2016

This pilot study examined programs for early childhood education and care in three Chinese cities. The samples for this study were one university-based kindergarten, one private kindergarten (rural area), and one public kindergarten (urban area). Six types of instruments were used to assess early childhood education and care services regarding quality matters. Most questions asked were open-ended; consequently, the interview answers by kindergarten directors or teachers (as well as observations made by the researcher) formed the basis for collecting the data. Quality components for each program were determined by a comparison method. The comparison allowed the researcher to understand the range of quality education and care available as well as the variability of existing kindergarten programs in China. The findings of the investigation revealed important information on; (a) demographic information (fees, class hours, total weeks of class, vacation, number of children and staff, class size, and teacher-child ratio) (b) teacher characteristics, (c) health practices, (d) safety practices, (e) work environment, (f) physical settings, (g) play materials, (h) parent involvement, (i) nutrition, (j) daily schedule. Implications within the Chinese context for quality practices and issues to further develop and strengthen early childhood education and care systems are discussed.

• Environmental Engineering Research
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• v.24 no.2
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• pp.211-219
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• 2019

Since improper management practices of solid medical waste (SMW) could potentially result in serious health risks and environmental problems, it is very important to properly treat and dispose of the medical wastes. In this study, current practices of SMW management from storage to final disposal stage in 12 health care facilities (HCFs) of Burundi were investigated using the official government reports. The results showed that 75% and 92% of HCFs used uncovered wheelbarrows and trucks for on-site or off-site SMW transportation, respectively, indicating that most transportation equipment and waste workers are not safely protected. The results also showed that 92.8% of SMW (15,736.4 ton) from all 12 HCFs were inappropriately disposed of through uncontrolled land disposal and incineration. If pharmaceutical wastes and discarded medical plastics (29.5% of SMW) can be separated and treated properly, the treatment costs can be reduced and resource savings can be achieved. Raising awareness of healthcare workers and general public about potential health effects arising from improper SMW management, sufficient financial and human resources for the treatment facilities (especially incinerators), and effective regulations and guidelines for transportation and treatment of SWM are some of the major tasks for safe and sustainable medical waste management in Burundi.

• International Journal of Computer Science & Network Security
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• v.24 no.8
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• pp.1-13
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• 2024

Artificial intelligence (AI) describes a variety of approaches in computer applications to mimic human learning. As this technology becomes increasingly prevalent, it is inevitable that it will enter the educational environment, as both an educational tool and topic of learning. STEM education, which deals with science, technology, engineering, and math, is perhaps the most appropriate educational field in which to introduce students to this new and rapidly growing technology. In recent years, educators, AI engineers, and educational researchers have published trial results of experimental curricula implementing AI technology in student and teacher education. This systematic literature review analyzed a sample of seven such publications to identify key trends in suggested best practices for the usage of AI in STEM classrooms. The sample was analyzed for keywords using MaxQDA. The results indicated three key trends among suggested best practices. The first was that AI is best taught to students when the technology itself is the topic of education. Another trend was that simulating real world applications of AI technology was most impactful in showing students the potential, limits, and ethical implications of AI. Finally, it was found that educator's familiarity with AI is an important factor in their ability to employ it in the classroom.

• Journal of the Institute of Convergence Signal Processing
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• v.25 no.2
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• pp.100-112
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• 2024

This study investigates the ethical and legal implications of utilizing artificial intelligence (AI) in human resource management, with a particular focus on AI interviews in the recruitment process. AI, defined as the capability of computer programs to perform tasks associated with human intelligence such as reasoning, learning, and adapting, is increasingly being integrated into HR practices. The deployment of AI in recruitment, specifically through AI-driven interviews, promises efficiency and objectivity but also raises significant ethical and legal concerns. These concerns include potential biases in AI algorithms, transparency in AI decision-making processes, data privacy issues, and compliance with existing labor laws and regulations. By analyzing case studies and reviewing relevant literature, this paper aims to provide a comprehensive understanding of these challenges and propose recommendations for ensuring ethical and legal compliance in AI-based HR practices. The findings suggest that while AI can enhance recruitment efficiency, it is imperative to establish robust ethical guidelines and legal frameworks to mitigate risks and ensure fair and transparent hiring practices.

• International Journal of Human Ecology
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• v.6 no.2
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• pp.51-61
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• 2005

This study investigated the allowance usage practices and factors affecting saving behavior from 291 elementary school students in Susan. Frequency distributions, Pearson product-moment correlations, and logistic regression analysis were conducted by SPSS Windows. Two-fifths of the respondents did not regularly receive allowance. Many parents did not guide what children spent their money on before using it. Children spent their allowances on buying snacks, stationary, and playing in the game room. Only a small number of the respondents kept a record, but many children saved money. On the other hand, in the logistic regression analysis, the significant variables explaining children's saving behavior were parents' guidance before using allowance, record-keeping, and doing household work for an allowance. These results imply that parents are in the best position to give children positive experiences towards financial management.