bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Allied health professionals cognitive workload scale in Malacca, Malaysia: A psychometric properties evaluation
Authors: Md Rasid Shahirah , Mohd Rasdi Hanif Farhan , Cheng Jin Wen , Mohd Suadi Nata Dayana Hazwani
Published: February 2025

Background: Cognitive workload has emerged as one of the most important topics that must be understood and addressed because of its impact on errors and work performance that will compromise patient safety. With increasing patient health demands, Allied Health Professionals (AHPs) tend to have heavier cognitive workloads and impact on personal well-being. Objective: Our study aims to determine the validity and reliability of a cognitive workload scale for AHP in Malacca, Malaysia and examine its effect on personal well-being. Method: The instrument comprises items related to human reliability, human-computer interaction, decision-making, skilled performance, training, work stress and cognitive ergonomic effect. The content validation was conducted using the Content Validity Questionnaire with eight expert panels’ responses. 120 AHP working in Malacca were recruited using purposive sampling and took part in the study, completing the online questionnaires. To evaluate the validity based on relationships with other measures, the SMEQ scale was also administered. AMOS Version 24 and IBM SPSS Version 26 were used in data analysis. Results: The instrument showed good content validity (CVI > 0.74). After the deletion of six items, the instrument has good convergent validity (AVE > 0.5), discriminant validity (HTMT Ratio < 0.85), composite reliability (CR > 0.7), internal consistency (alpha > 0.7), construct validity the ratio (1.865), CFI (0.900), PCFI (0.821), PNFI (0.738), RMSEA (0.085), IFI (0.90) and test-retest reliability (ICC > 0.6). The study found a positive correlation with the Malay version of SMEQ. This study also found that the AHP in the laboratory group have higher work stress and experiences more cognitive load effects, leading to lower personal well-being. Conclusion: Overall, the final version of a scale measuring the cognitive workload is valid and reliable in assessing cognitive ergonomics among AHP. Testing cognitive workload on different work populations, including manual and non-manual workers, is recommended for future studies.
Cancer and careers: Perspectives and experiences of patients with differentiated thyroid cancer
Authors: Xu Jia Li , Wang Qing Yu , Meng Jing Yu , Pei Jia Qin , Zhang Li
Published: February 2025

Background

As new cases of differentiated thyroid cancer become younger and survival rates improve, young and middle-aged patients have become the main population with the disease. Therefore, most patients are in the developmental stage of work. Returning to work after cancer treatment has become common.

Objective

To explore the perceptions and experiences of patients with differentiated thyroid cancer about continuing to work after cancer.

Methods

Using the descriptive phenomenological research method, semi-structured in-depth interviews were conducted with 13 patients with differentiated thyroid cancer who entered the follow-up period, and the data were analyzed using the Colaizzi 7-step analysis method and managed with the help of Nvivo 11.

Results

The themes of work experience are as follows: necessary reasons for continuing to work: survival needs, supporting family, work for recovery; negative effects of disease in work status: distressing cancer symptoms, fear of disease recurrence, difficult choice between health and future, labeling of cancer patients; support and coping: family support, social support, professional information support.

Conclusions

Economic factors play an important role in differentiated thyroid cancer survivors’ choice to continue working. Patients who are currently in a work status have some distress, but to some extent, the work status facilitates survival and treatment. Multidisciplinary and individualized medical interventions, as well as employer and policy support, can help to mitigate the harm caused by cancer diagnosis and treatment and promote patients’ continued work and improved quality of life.
Mistrust among injured immigrant workers: A conceptual framework
Authors: Arsenault Maude , Côté Daniel , Dubé Jessica
Published: February 2025

Background

In Quebec, injured workers have access to medical assistance, wage replacement indemnities, and rehabilitation measures, with most injuries resolved easily. However, a small percentage of cases require a lengthy rehabilitation process, which is particularly complex when involving immigrants. The therapeutic alliance is at the heart of the process, involving mutual trust and confidence and a degree of consensus about the therapeutic interventions to be used and, ultimately, the return to work.

Objective

This article delves into the concept of mistrust as more than the absence of trust, and sheds light on its role in the rehabilitation process of immigrant workers.

Method

Drawing from a literature review on mistrust of immigrants in the healthcare setting and comprehensive studies on the rehabilitation process, a conceptual framework for understanding mistrust in this context is proposed.

Results

Vulnerable situations, such as precarious employment and/or temporary immigration status, create fertile ground for mistrust. Negative experiences with healthcare professionals or systems further exacerbate mistrust, as do social stigmas within the rehabilitation system. Cross-cultural miscommunications such as differences in communication styles or beliefs about illnesses further complicate matters, emphasizing the need for culturally sensitive approaches.

Conclusion

Addressing mistrust requires understanding its origins and consequences, as well as providing guidelines for practitioners to enable them to recognize and manage it effectively. Further research is crucial to deepen our understanding of mistrust among immigrant workers and develop strategies for promoting trust and cooperation throughout the rehabilitation process.
Work-related musculoskeletal disorders (MSDs) among workers in the brass-metal industry
Authors: Chellappa Vigneshkumar , Victor Rajesh Rithin , Prakash Jyoti
Published: February 2025

Background

Brass-metal operations hold a longstanding tradition as one of the oldest cottage industries in India. In this industry, workers engage in physically demanding tasks, and the nature of the job often leads workers to assume various non-optimal postures, which can contribute to the development of musculoskeletal disorders (MSDs).

Objectives

This study aimed to recognize the significant operations involved in the brass-metal industry and identify the prevalence of MSD symptoms in different body parts of brass-metal workers. Further, this study assessed the risk of MSDs associated with brass-metal operations.

Methods

This study followed a mixed-method approach. First, onsite observations and surveys were adopted to recognize the activities involved in the brass-metal industry. Second, the body map was used to identify the prevalence of MSDs among brass-metal workers. Next, the Rapid Entire Body Assessment (REBA) method evaluated the worker's postures.

Results

The study's findings indicate a high prevalence of MSD symptoms among brass-metal workers. Furthermore, the workers involved in the clay mixing task were at high risk of developing MSDs. The most frequently affected body parts of workers involved in the brass-metal operations were shoulders, trunk, neck, legs, wrists, and hip/buttocks.

Conclusion

The study provides compelling evidence supporting the need for work-cycle modifications and ergonomic design interventions to address the symptoms of MSDs experienced by brass-metal workers. The findings will serve as a valuable basis for developing guidelines and designing targeted interventions focused on preventing MSDs and enhancing the overall well-being of workers in the brass-metal industry.
The relationship between young adults’ time use, occupational diversity, and occupational balance
Authors: Yaman Hülya , Bilsel Beyza Aslı
Published: February 2025

Background

Research has shown that work-life balance is not only about job satisfaction and performance. It is also related to a good occupational balance. In this way, a balanced working pattern can improve health. The impact of smartphones, which have become ubiquitous in contemporary society, on this balance is a topic of ongoing debate.

Objective

This study aims to investigate the relationship between time use, smartphone use, occupational balance, and occupational self-competence among working young people and university students. The findings of this study may contribute to the development of effective strategies to improve the work-life balance of young people who are either working or about to start their working life.

Methods

The study involved 158 healthy young adults. The research instruments used included a socio-demographic information form, the Modified Occupational Questionnaire, the Occupational Self-Assessment, and the Turkish Occupational Balance Questionnaire. The results were then analyzed using SPSS 24.0.

Results

A significant relationship was found between the time allocated to sleep and occupational balance ( p = 0.009), as well as between the time allocated to work and productive activities and occupational self-competence ( p = 0.010). Furthermore, a statistically significant relationship was found between the duration of smartphone usage and occupational balance ( p = 0.04).

Conclusion

The study emphasizes occupational balance as an important concept for identifying and addressing time use problems among young workers and university students. The study suggests that achieving work-life balance requires consideration of the positive effects of time allocated sleep and the negative effects of smartphone use.
A conceptual framework for defining work disparities: A case of nurses in long term care
Authors: Shaw Lynn , Masood Mehvish , Neufeld Kimberly , Connelly Denise M , Stanley Meagan , Guitar Nicole A , Garnett Anna , Nikkhou Anahita
Published: February 2025

Background

Increasing the recruitment and retention of nurses within long-term care (LTC) is a growing challenge faced by the healthcare community. Addressing this problem will require a greater understanding of the day-to-day experiences of nurses, including the disparities and unequal treatment experienced by this group of workers (e.g., pay parity, discrimination, and unfair job demands). However, while there is a need to better understand work disparities faced by nurses, a formalized definition and framework for examining work disparities do not exist within the literature.

Objective

To create a conceptual framework to define and analyze work disparities experienced by nurses in LTC.

Methods

This analysis was conducted in adherence to Podsakoff et al.'s four-stage series of recommendations. A partial survey of the literature and operationalizations of work disparities were analyzed to create a core list of attributes of work disparities among nurses in LTC. A definition and framework for classifying work disparities were then posited through a dialogic process and refined by testing on two studies.

Results

A definition of work disparities was posited and four categories of work disparities were identified: job security, work compensation, work opportunities, and workplace treatment. A matrix for classifying the variables of work disparities and comparator groups was refined.

Conclusion

With the increasing recognition of unequal treatment of nurses in LTC, this framework can enable further research within this area to support and enhance opportunities for the retention and health of the LTC workforce.
Hearing loss prediction equation for Iranian truck drivers using neural network algorithm
Authors: Esmaeili Reza , Aghapanah Hamed , Ghasemian Hamideh , Ashouri Maryam , Nakhaei pour Mojtaba , Alboghobeish Ali , jalali Mahdi , Ghotbi Negar , Esmaeili Sayed Vahid
Published: February 2025

Background: 

Given the high prevalence of hearing loss among truck drivers, using artificial neural networks (ANNs) to predict and detect contributing factors early can aid managers significantly.

Objective: 

This study aimed to predict hearing loss using an ANN algorithm and to evaluate the weight and influence of various factors affecting hearing loss among truck drivers.

Methods: 

A total of 692 truck drivers were selected for the study. Their occupational exposure histories were collected to identify factors influencing their hearing loss. The impact and weight of each factor were measured, and an ANN algorithm was used to model and predict the degree of hearing loss.

Results: 

The assessment of hearing loss among truck drivers revealed a prevalence of 59.98% in the right ear and 64.74% in the left ear. The most significant average hearing loss in both ears occurred at frequencies of 6000 and 8000 Hz. According to the ANN model, age and the frequency of 2000 Hz had the greatest impact on hearing loss, while sound pressure level (SPL) had the least impact. Additionally, the relationship between overall hearing loss and the type of heavy truck indicated that drivers of HOWO brand trucks experienced the highest degree of hearing loss compared to other drivers.

Conclusions: 

This study demonstrates that the ANN algorithm is a promising tool for predicting hearing impairments caused by noise exposure among truck drivers.
Bridging the gap between cognitive tasks and abilities
Authors: Percy Tania L. M. , Matheson Leonard N.
Published: February 2025

Background

This is the next entry in the WORK “Bridging the Gap” series. It continues the case study by describing procedures and methods used by occupational therapists in work-oriented neurorehabilitation to help clients bridge the gap between their work tasks and their abilities, using information from the Occupational Information Network (O*NET).

Objective

To demonstrate the potential of integrating O*NET information with occupational therapy procedures and practices.

Methods

A competitive employment disability case study provided the context for an interdisciplinary work-oriented reflective practice and dialogic inquiry approach to post-professional mentoring involving the authors and a fictional client's occupational therapist. The dialogue focuses on integrating information from O*NET about the target job's tasks and necessary abilities to improve client-centered practice for persons focused on returning to competitive employment.

Results

In this case study, O*NET information facilitated return-to-work planning and the selection of evaluation and therapy tools. Information about the client's job tasks found in O*NET was used to set a detailed vocational ecological context for work-oriented services, beginning with the intake interview. Concerns about the use of self-report data were addressed. Screening for executive dysfunction with the BRIEF questionnaire guided clinical focus on O*NET cognitive ability variables.

Conclusions

This case study shows how O*NET empirical data can improve the relevance of Occupational Therapy assessment and treatment for individuals aiming to return to competitive employment. The study illustrates how O*NET data can help guide occupational therapy intervention by addressing clients’ specific concerns about potential limitations in their ability to perform job tasks.
Initial assessment of musculoskeletal disorders and ergonomics risk factors among laboratory workers, Kuala Lumpur
Authors: Mohd Suadi Nata Dayana Hazwani , Azlan Hisham Nurhannah , Mohamad Jamil Putri Anis Syahira
Published: February 2025

Background

Musculoskeletal disorders (MSD) are work-related injuries that can impact the movement or function of the human body's musculoskeletal system.

Objective

This study aims to assess musculoskeletal disorders and ergonomic risk factors (awkward posture and repetitive motions) among laboratory workers.

Methods

49 laboratory workers were assessed in this cross-sectional study. MSD prevalence was evaluated using the Cornell Musculoskeletal Discomfort Questionnaire (CMDQ). Awkward posture was assessed with the Rapid Upper Limb Assessment (RULA) approach, and repetitive motion was evaluated using the Assessment of Repetitive Tasks (ART) Tools. The data was analysed using SPSS Version 26.0.

Results

MSDs were most prevalent in the neck (91.8%), followed by the left shoulder (87.5%), right shoulder (85.7%), and lower back (85.7%) in the past week. The level of ergonomic risk for awkward posture is high risk (RULA score = 7), although most repetitive motion tasks indicate low risk (ART score <11). There is a significant correlation between the frequency of MSD and risk factors such age, gender, and shift employment.

Conclusions

It is recommended to implement ergonomic approaches, such as modifying workstations to promote good body postures during jobs, to decrease the likelihood of musculoskeletal problems among laboratory workers.
How challenge and hindrance research stressors impact research performance and well-being of college teachers: Psychological capital as a key moderator
Authors: Tian Xiaoming , Wang Guoxuan , Li Rui
Published: February 2025

Background

With the development of the knowledge economy and technological advancements, universities are increasingly emphasizing the research performance of their faculty. This has resulted in unprecedented stress levels among college teachers globally.

Objective

This study investigates the influence of research stressors on the performance and psychological well-being of college teachers, drawing upon the challenge-hindrance stressor framework and conservation of resources theory.

Method

A two-wave time-lagged sample of 177 matched dyads (college teachers and their research secretaries) was utilized.

Results

Challenge research stressors positively impacted research performance through problem-focused coping. Hindrance stressors negatively impacted research performance and psychological well-being through emotion-focused coping. Psychological capital moderated these relationships, amplifying the positive effects of challenge stressors and mitigating the negative effects of hindrance stressors.

Conclusion

The study highlights the importance of coping strategies and psychological capital in managing research stressors, with implications for enhancing research performance and well-being among college teachers.
Teacher's organizational citizenship behavior in the context of personality traits, well-being and employment uncertanity
Authors: Todorović Dušan , Jovanović Dragana
Published: February 2025

Background

As change management in schools is considered a matter of great importance, a deeper understanding and analysis of the organizational behavior of employees is a prerequisite for effectively managing educational institutions that strive for high quality in competitiveness. Therefore, this work pays great attention to the organizational citizenship behavior of teachers, which is viewed through the prism of personality traits, well-being, and job insecurity.

Objective

The aim of this research was to examine whether there are differences in the personality traits, work orientations, subjective well-being and perceived employment uncertainty between the teachers with pronounced OCB and those with low level of OCB. Also, potential predictive value of this variables and OCB of teacher was tested.

Methods

The research sample consisted of 982 teachers employed in primary schools. A canonical discriminant analysis was applied to determine whether it would be possible to distinguish between teachers who are characterized by pronounced organizational citizenship behavior and those who do not, based on a set of variables that consist of personality traits, organizational orientation, well-being, employment uncertainty, income satisfaction, duration of employment and education level.

Results

Results show that teachers with high scores of OCB (Altruism, Courtesy, Civic virtue, Sportsmanship behavior, Conscientiousness) are characterized by highly pronounced traits (Honesty, Conscientiousness, Agreeableness) followed by an orientation toward advancing in the hierarchy of an organization, and thus a higher level of subjective well-being.

Conclusions

It's clear that teachers’ responsibility, commitment and inventiveness to their roles could be crucial factors for realization of educational values and goals. Bearing in mind that teachers are the basis of overall functioning of human resources in school and that they are more flexible and creative than technological and structural school's resources, they could be seen as main resource for raising the level of school organization effectiveness and productivity and the quality of education in general.
Do you feel betrayed? Exploring the impact of workplace-induced loneliness on interactions with varied social structures
Authors: Liu Yankuan , Rau Pei-Luen Patrick
Published: February 2025

Background

Workplace loneliness is an escalating concern, affecting employee well-being and productivity. Understanding its impact on social interactions and decision-making within professional settings is crucial for developing effective interventions.

Objective

This study aims to explore how workplace-induced loneliness influences individuals’ interactions with social groups, individuals, and computer programs, and to assess the behavioral, cognitive, and emotional outcomes of these interactions. To explain these observed phenomena, the Workplace Loneliness-Driven Social Response (WL-SR) model is proposed.

Methods

A dark factory decision-making experiment was designed and conducted, where participants underwent loneliness induction before engaging in tasks that required interactions with different social structures. The study measured changes in trust, emotional responses, neural activities, and decision-making processes to evaluate the impact of loneliness.

Results

The findings indicate that loneliness significantly increases distrust and dishonesty in interactions with social groups, leading to higher dissatisfaction and negative emotional responses. Conversely, interactions with a social individual were marked by increased reliability and more positive attributions, which mitigated feelings of loneliness. The WL-SR model, integrating stress-related fight-or-flight and tend-and-befriend responses, elucidates these outcomes.

Conclusions

This study reveals how workplace loneliness affects trust and social interactions in professional settings. It highlights the negative impact on group interactions and the potential for individual interactions to reduce loneliness. The findings contribute to the understanding of how human psychology interacts with digital communication in the workplace, emphasizing the role of computers in mediating responses to loneliness.
Research on the relationship between environmental servant leadership, employee environmental proactivity, employee environmental creativity and organizational environmental citizenship behavior
Authors: Han Yang , Ren Weiwei , Tang Bo
Published: February 2025

Background

Under the background of increasingly prominent climate and environmental problems, as well as the goals of emission peak and carbon neutrality, integrating the concept of environmental protection into leadership work is becoming a hot topic for theoretical researchers and management practitioners.

Objective

This study aims to explore the relationship between environmental servant leadership, employee environmental proactivity, employee environmental creativity and organizational environmental citizenship behavior.

Methods

Based on social cognition theory, conservation of resources theory and self-determination theory, environmental servant leadership was used as an independent variable, with employee environmental proactivity as a mediating variable and employee environmental creativity and organizational environmental citizenship behavior as dependent variables. An integrated theoretical framework was constructed. SPSS23 and AMOS23 were used for statistical analysis, and structural equation models were constructed to empirically test 363 leader–employee pairing data from mechanical, IT and pharmaceutical organizations.

Results

The statistical results show the following: environmental servant leadership has a significant positive influence on employee environmental proactivity (β = 0.381, p < 0.01); employee environmental proactivity positively influences employee environmental creativity (β = 0.267, p < 0.01) and organizational environmental citizenship behavior (β = 0.345, p < 0.01); environmental servant leadership directly influences employee environmental creativity (β = 0.249, p < 0.01) and organizational environmental citizenship behavior (β = 0.353, p < 0.01). Employee environmental proactivity partly mediates the influence of environmental servant leadership on employee environmental creativity and organizational environmental citizenship behavior.

Conclusion

This indicates that environmental servant leadership not only directly influences employee environmental creativity and organizational environmental citizenship behavior but also indirectly influences the two dependent variables through employee environmental proactivity. Therefore, organizations must adopt environmental servant leadership and stimulate employee environmental proactivity to enhance employee environmental creativity and organizational environmental citizenship behavior.
Factors associated with changes in employment in individuals with long COVID
Authors: Jaber Farah , Hoang Marie-An , Feldman Debbie Ehrmann , Saunders Sara , Mazer Barbara
Published: February 2025

Background

Long Covid symptoms are known to have an impact on function, however, their effect on employment and the associated demographic and clinical factors are not well understood.

Objective

Our objectives were (1) To compare changes in employment status between those with Long Covid and those who recovered from their Covid-19 infection; and (2) To identify demographic factors, clinical factors, and occupational skill level associated with decreased employment status in those with Long Covid.

Methods

We conducted an electronic survey (≥12 weeks post infection) with adult residents in Laval, Quebec, Canada who tested positive for Covid-19 between March 2020 and January 2022, regarding Long Covid symptoms and their functional impact. This analysis focuses on employment status: pre-covid, prior to infection, and current, and was recorded as full-time, part-time, or not working due to illness or for other reasons. Change in employment status was categorized as no decrease or decreased.

Results

Among 2764 respondents, 15.6% (95% CI: 13.3–17.9) with Long Covid (versus 5.4% (95% CI: 4.2–6.5) who recovered) experienced a decrease in employment (p < 0.001). Clinical factors associated with a decrease in employment include having been hospitalized for Covid-19, having ≥1 comorbid condition prior to infection, >12 months since infection, moderate to severe decline in physical and psychological health, and decline in global health. Demographic factors and occupational skill level were not associated with a change in employment.

Conclusions

Persons with Long Covid are more likely to experience a decrease in employment. Research is needed to determine whether rehabilitation for people with Long Covid could improve employment levels.
Physical activity, quality of life, and physical fitness of police officers: An exploratory study
Authors: Silva Mayda de Castro , Saint-Martin Daniel Rodrigues Ferreira , Barreto Kevin Alves , Barbosa João Paulo Araújo , Soares Edgard de Melo Keene Von Koenig , Molina Guilherme Eckhardt , Porto Luiz Guilherme Grossi
Published: February 2025

Background

A high level of physical activity (PAL) is necessary for the safety performance of police officers.

Objective

To evaluate the PAL, quality of life (QoL), and cardiorespiratory fitness (CRF) of Civil Police Officers (PO) of Brazil, in association with gender and career time.

Methods

We evaluated 55 PO (50.9% male), with a median age of 40 and a BMI of 25.7 kg/m2. Descriptive analysis and associations with gender and career time (G1: longer/G2: shorter) were carried out. PAL was evaluated by the IPAQ-short version. QoL and CRF were estimated using the WHOQOL and Jackson questionnaires. The chi-square test was used for associations; the odds ratio was calculated with a 95% confidence interval (95%CI) to express the strength of the association.

Results

There was a proportion of 72.7% (95% CI:69.0–91.0%) of active PO, with a trend for a higher proportion among women and G2 ( p = 0.07/0.08), respectively. Only 36.4% of PO (95% CI:24.0–49.0) achieved the minimum CRF required for career entry, with G1 showing a lower proportion than G2 ( p < 0.01) and a lower chance of achieving the recommended CRF (OR: 0.03 / 95% CI:0.01–0.17). The median QoL was >70 points in three of the four evaluated domains, with G2 showing higher scores than G1 in the physical domain ( p = 0.02).

Conclusion

More than two-thirds of the PO assessed achieved the PA recommendations for health, but the majority had a CRF below the recommended. The median QoL was good in 3 of the four WHOQOL domains. Women and those with less carrier time had higher QoL, PAL, and CRF.
A simulation approach to validating optimized kitchen layouts: Reassessing the work triangle through real apartment floor plan analysis
Authors: Lee Jane , Ryu Eunseo , Kim Jun Young , Lee Joong Hee , Yun Myung Hwan
Published: February 2025

Background

The conventional Work Triangle principle has long been a guiding concept in kitchen design, aiming to optimize workflow and minimize workload. However, with the advent of modern appliances and evolving lifestyles, the effectiveness of the Work Triangle in addressing the diverse activities and needs of contemporary kitchens is increasingly limited.

Objective

This study aims to verify the validity of the Work Triangle in modern kitchen design and propose a kitchen modeling algorithm that facilitates customization based on layout and the area size from a user-centered perspective.

Methods

The research was conducted in two parts. In the first part, the validity of the Work Triangle was verified through the analysis of 38 actual apartment kitchen floor plans in Korea. Then the second part, a kitchen layout optimization model was developed using 0–1 integer programming to minimize the distance between kitchen appliances, incorporating the placement of modern appliances not included in the traditional Work Triangle.

Results

The statistical analysis of kitchen floor plans data showed that the impact of Work Triangle compliance on movement efficiency was limited, suggesting the need for customized kitchen design that reflects user behavior patterns and the placement of modern appliances and storage spaces. The model was evaluated through simulation, demonstrating its effectiveness in optimizing kitchen appliances layout.

Conclusions

The study emphasizes the need to consider actual usage patterns and the limitations of the Work Triangle in modern kitchen design, proposing a user-centered optimization model that enables customization based on individual cooking scenarios and lifestyles.
Three-dimensional head and face dimensions of Chilean versus US CAESAR 3D data: Differences and implications for personal protective equipment design
Authors: Silva Edgardo C , Castellucci Héctor Ignacio , Valenzuela Sofía , Rodríguez Ariel Antonio , Escanilla David Eduardo , Caroca Luis Alberto , Molenbroek Johan FM , Huysmans Toon , Viviani Carlos
Published: February 2025

Background

Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) is crucial for minimizing workplace hazards, and its effectiveness relies on adapting to diverse anthropometric features.

Objective

To establish the first 3D anthropometry database of Chilean workers. Also, this study compares 18 dimensions with the North American CAESAR three-dimensional anthropometrical scan database.

Methods

The research utilized three-dimensional data collected from 348 Chilean individuals, ages ranging between 19 and 68 years old. Measurements were captured with a 3D face scanner (3dMD®) following ISO/TS 16976-2 and ISO 15535 guidelines to maintain rigorous standards.

Results

Noticeable sexual dimorphism: Chilean males exhibit larger facial dimensions than females, such as Nose breadth and Face length, which emphasize the need for gender-specific PPE designs. Furthermore, comparisons with the CAESAR dataset revealed significant disparities among Chilean and other populations, emphasizing the importance of ethnic tailoring PPE. The implications for respiratory PPE design are substantial; variations in dimensions like Face length and Face width highlight the need for adjustable or size-specific respirators.

Conclusions

The study underlines the importance of considering not only gender-specific differences but also ethnic variations in PPE design. The findings emphasize the critical role of anthropometric data in developing tailored respiratory protection devices, ensuring effective workplace safety across diverse populations. The study recommends further research to validate the findings in other populations and to advocate for inclusive design practices in occupational safety.
Impacts of arthritis on work performance, functioning and activities of daily living using the Canadian community health survey
Authors: Avila Shane , Hao Yifan , Bani-Fatemi Ali , Howe Aaron , Nowrouzi-Kia Behdin
Published: February 2025

Background

Individuals with arthritis often face significant challenges in their activities of daily living and work performance, resulting in substantial effects on both their personal and professional lives.

Objective

This study aims to determine whether workers with arthritis within the Canadian working-age population are more or less likely to miss work, sustain injuries, or experience activity limitations compared to those without arthritis.

Methods

The analysis utilized data from the Canadian Community Health Survey, focusing on employed individuals over 20 from two datasets: 2015–2016 (n = 107,705) and 2017–2018 (n = 112,947). Logistic regression examined occupational health factors, while bivariate analyses via chi-squared tests (p < 0.01) filtered variables and Tukey's HSD was used for post hoc analysis (p < 0.05). Multinomial models addressed complex responses, and Wald's test compared differences between males and females.

Results

Individuals with arthritis (n = 27,720) were more likely to miss work, experience difficulties in daily functioning and report injury compared to their non-arthritis counterparts. Women with arthritis were also more likely to face difficulties in daily functioning and report joblessness. Men with arthritis were more likely to report work absences but less likely to report injury compared to both women and non-arthritis men.

Conclusion

Despite individuals with arthritis being heavily impacted in terms of functionality, there is a disconnect between accommodations provided and usage. Further research on inclusive accommodations (e.g., ergonomic tools and equipment, flexible work arrangements) and self-management strategies that can account for the problems faced by individuals with arthritis need to be established.
Comparative analysis of piroxicam and post-isometric exercises in knee osteoarthritis in school teachers
Authors: Batool Urwa , Khan Imran Ahmad , Khan Maliha Khalid , Malik Abdul , Fatima Sabiha
Published: February 2025

Background

School teachers often have knee osteoarthritis due to the nature of their work.

Objective

To compare the effects of post-isometric exercise and piroxicam on pain and functional impairment in school teachers having knee osteoarthritis.

Method

A pragmatic, community-based, double-blinded, randomized clinical trial (IRCT20230202057310N4) was conducted was conducted at Muhammad Physical Therapy Clinic and Rehabilitation Center, Multan, Pakistan from September 2025 to July after approval from the Institutional Ethical Committee (). A total of 70 pre-diagnosed osteoarthritis patients were randomly assigned to two groups after enrollment using the lottery method. Patients of Group A were treated with post-isometric exercises for 12 weeks (3 sessions per week and each session lasted for 45 min), while those in Group B were given piroxicam (given orally 20 mg twice a day for 12 weeks). At baseline and the 18th session, pain and daily activities were measured using the Pain Catastrophizing Scale (PCS), the Western Ontario and McMaster Universities Osteoarthritis Index (WOMAC) scale, and Numerical Pain Rating Scale (NPRS), biochemical (ESR, CRP, and WBCs) and radiological (X-rays) parameters were evaluated. The data was analyzed by using SPSS-23. The independent t-test compared differences between two unrelated groups while the paired t-test assessed differences within the same group. P-value <0.005 was considered significant.

Results

Out of 70 patients, 68 patients were assessed and there were 46 females and 21 males. The results showed a highly significant improvement in flexion (p = 0.001), WOMAC ADLs (p = 0.001), WOMAC stiffness (p = 0.004), PCS (p = 0.001) in group-A than group-B. Similarly, there was a highly significant improvement in NPRS (p = 0.001), WOMAC pain (p = 0.001), WBCs % (p = 0.002), ESR (p = 0.002) and CRP (p = 0.003) in group-B than group-A, underscoring the effectiveness of the post-isometric exercises.

Conclusion

These findings suggest that post-isometric exercises could be a more beneficial treatment option than piroxicam for knee osteoarthritis. The practical implications of this research are significant, as it demonstrates that post-isometric exercises not only enhance functional results but also reduce pain severity, offering a promising alternative to traditional medication.
Public perception on occupational exposure to air pollution in India
Authors: Sekar Abinaya , Kuttiparichel Varghese George , Varma Ravi
Published: February 2025

Background

It is crucial to understand perceptions on exposure to air pollution for designing targeted interventions, raising awareness, and fostering measures to mitigate occupational health risk and improve the overall health outcomes.

Objective

This study aims at understanding the perception of the practitioners of various occupations vis-à-vis the general public on occupational exposure to air pollution (OEAP).

Methods

The four-step assessment we carried out involved recording perceptions via Google forms and in-person surveys, conducting statistical analyses (descriptive statistics, regression analyses and tests of significance), analyses using Odds Ratio (OR) and comparing the results with risk perception theories.

Results

712 respondents across the country participated in the survey and 57% of them perceived that they work in a moderately healthy environment. Test of significance showed that gender and age do not significantly affect the perception. However, factors like education, income level, locality, and location of the job significantly influenced the perception. Linear regression analysis showed that ambient air quality is a significant predictor of workplace air quality perception. The OR indicated strong dependence of workers’ perception on the actual OEAP. Regarding the exposure associated with a profession, the perception of the practitioners of that profession and the public matched for those professions where the exposures were expected to be high but deviated significantly when the profession had relatively lower exposure to pollution.

Conclusion

The perception of risks compared to actual risks will serve as the foundation for developing awareness and sensitization programmes focused on occupational risk.
Unveiling the veil: Exploring experiences of patient-initiated workplace violence in long-term care and mental health and substance use settings
Authors: Havaei Farinaz , Adhami Nassim , Kaulius Megan , Teymourian Ryan , Ahmadi Bahar , Afsah Sara , Franke Thea , Russolillo Angela , Carter Michelle , Tisdelle Loren , Alger Kenneth
Published: February 2025

Background

This paper focuses on patient-initiated workplace violence (referred to WPV hereafter) towards healthcare workers in long-term care (LTC) and mental health and substance use (MHSU) care settings. While an extensive body of evidence has thoroughly examined WPV, our understanding of what takes place immediately before or during a violent incident, known as ‘on-the-spot’ experiences is limited.

Objective

This study examined (a) ‘on-the-spot’ experiences, (b) contributing factors, and (c) warning signs of impending WPV using the experiences of healthcare worker victims and witnesses and healthcare attendees in LTC and MHSU.

Methods

The study was conducted in one LTC home and two MHSU units in British Columbia, Canada. In-depth semi-structured virtual interviews were conducted with 17 participants from June to September 2023. Workplace Health Indicator Tracking and Evaluation (WHITE) data included 38 WPV incidents occurring between January 2022 to March 2023. Data were analyzed using thematic analysis.

Results

Six participants (35%) identified as both victims and witnesses of WPV, four participants (24%) as only victims, and five participants (29%) as only witnesses. Contributing factors to WPV encompassed two main themes and their subthemes: (1) patient/resident factors (cognitive impairment and neurodevelopmental conditions); (2) healthcare factors (lack of continuity of care across healthcare, community and family, care provision, approaches and skills in interactions with patients/residents, access to safety tools and security personnel, and unmet needs and workload and human resource challenges).

Conclusion

WPV may be reduced through access to specialized care, adoption of team-based care and person-centered care approaches, addressing resource constraints, and offering context-specific training.
Faculty perceptions of wellness at an academic medical center
Authors: Gupta Anjali , Conley Claire C , Rice Jesse , Poth Kendyll , Graves Kristi
Published: February 2025

Background

Despite national recommendations and decades of literature highlighting the importance of faculty wellness, gaps at academic medical centers remain. Multilevel wellness initiatives are necessary to create change and optimally support academic faculty.

Objective

The purpose of this study is to examine faculty perceptions of factors contributing to lack of wellness and proposed solutions in the context of current resources at our academic medical center in the Mid-Atlantic region of the United States.

Methods

The Georgetown University Medical Center Faculty Development Committee created a Wellness Task Force in response to a charge by leadership. The 11-member Task Force included faculty members from different disciplines: psychiatry, neurology, family medicine, pediatrics, nursing and oncology. Data collection occurred September 2021 to January 2022. Interviews and focus groups elicited faculty input on 1) factors that contribute to and detract from wellness and 2) strategies to enhance wellness within our academic medical center.

Results

Faculty described individual and organizational factors contributing to lack of wellness: challenges with balance; lack of connection, autonomy, resources and feeling valued; communication; culture; attention to diversity, equity, and inclusion; leadership; and workload. Proposed solutions included a comprehensive, centralized and consistent plan; culture change; incentives; increased autonomy, feelings of value, and resources.

Conclusions

Wellness as a budgetary priority and strategic initiative remains a critical goal for academic medical centers. Faculty perceptions of factors contributing to lack of wellness and proposed solutions underscore and add to national recommendations.
In Vivo Kinematics of the Distal Tibiofibular Syndesmosis With Different Loading Weights
Authors: Luo Ye , Li Feng , Huang Xiaofan , Wu Danni , Zhao Yaqi , Wang Shaobai
Published: February 2025

Background:

The distal tibiofibular syndesmosis (DTS) is crucial for maintaining ankle stability and distributing stress in the ankle joint. However, the in vivo kinematics of the DTS during high-impact activities remain unknown. This study aims to explore these kinematics and investigate the influence of additional trunk load using a high-speed dual fluoroscopy imaging system (DFIS). It was hypothesized that the maximum lateral translation of the DTS would not exceed the diagnostic threshold, and the range of motion (ROM) would increase with the addition of load.

Methods:

This study included 14 healthy participants. Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) was used to create 3-dimensional models of the distal tibia and fibula. High-speed DFIS was employed to capture continuous fluoroscopic images of the DTS while participants performed single-leg landing jumps. A weighted vest was used to introduce additional load. DFIS data and 3D models were imported into virtual environment software to obtain kinematic data. A 1-way analysis of variance was conducted to compare 3-dimensional 6 degree-of-freedom kinematics and the joint’s ROM before and after adding trunk load.

Results:

The primary rotational movements of the DTS after ground contact were eversion and external rotation, whereas translational movements included lateral and downward translation. After adding additional load, the DTS showed a significantly greater maximum extension angle (2.70 ± 0.56 degrees vs 3.17 ± 0.59 degrees, P = .038) and flexion-extension ROM (2.74 ± 0.61 degrees vs 3.32 ± 0.83 degrees, P = .044) compared to preload conditions. The maximum internal rotation angle (0.25 ± 0.73 degrees vs 1.51 ± 0.86 degrees, P < .001) and internal-external rotation ROM (-2.09 ± 1.39 degrees vs 3.88 ± 1.10 degrees, P = .004) of the DTS were significantly greater after adding load.

Conclusion:

During single-leg landing, the primary movements of the DTS involve eversion and external rotation. With additional loading, the rotational angles of the DTS increase.

Clinical Relevance:

The distal tibiofibular syndesmosis increases its rotational motion angle to accommodate higher loads.
Risk Factors and Predictive Model for Disseminated Intravascular Coagulation in Patients with Multiple Myeloma
Authors: Bao Rong , Fan Mengtong , Hu Min , Li Ling , Hasichaolu  
Published: February 2025

Objectives

Multiple myeloma (MM) is a hematologic malignancy comprising approximately 10% of all blood cancers. Patients with MM are at risk for disseminated intravascular coagulation (DIC), a serious complication characterized by systemic coagulation activation, leading to microthrombi, organ dysfunction, and severe bleeding. This study aims to investigate the incidence of DIC among MM patients and identify risk factors associated with DIC development. We also sought to develop a predictive formula for assessing DIC risk.

Methods

A retrospective analysis was conducted on MM patients. Logistic regression analysis was used to identify factors significantly associated with DIC. The predictive power of the logistic regression model was evaluated using receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curve analysis.

Results

The incidence of DIC among hospitalized MM patients was 16.8%. Significant factors identified by logistic regression analysis included prothrombin time (PT), fibrin degradation products (FDP), and D-dimer levels. ROC curve analysis indicated that the predictive model had strong discriminatory power, with an area under the curve (AUC) of 0.927. A predictive formula for the probability of DIC occurrence was developed based on the logistic regression model.

Conclusions

The predictive formula developed in this study offers a tool for early identification of MM patients at high risk of DIC. While the model demonstrates strong predictive capability, further validation and refinement are required to improve its accuracy and clinical application.