Work - Volume 79, issue 2

Authors: Subramaniam, Shankar | Ganesan, Abbas | Raju, Naveenkumar | Rajavel, Nithyaprakash | Chenniappan, Maheswari | Prakash, Chander | Pramanik, Alokesh | Basak, Animesh Kumar

Article Type: Research Article

Abstract: BACKGROUND: Textile-sizing mill workers are exposed to various hazards in the sizing units during their working hours and are at risk of acquiring lung impairments due to the usage of sizing chemicals in the sizing process. OBJECTIVE: The main aim of this study is to assess the influence of cotton dust and sizing agents on lung function and breathing difficulties among Indian textile sizing mill workers. METHODS: This cross-sectional study was carried out at a textile-sizing mill from August 2022 to September 2022. A modified questionnaire based American Thoracic Society’s standard was used …to assess respiratory symptoms among sizing mill workers and the pulmonary function test was conducted Spirometry. The chi-square test was used to find the difference between respiratory symptoms and the t -test was used to find the difference between spirometric parameters. RESULTS: Textile sizing mill workers showed significant (P  < 0.0001) decline in peak expiratory flow rate, forced vital capacity (FVC), ratio of FEV1 and forced vital capacity, and forced expiratory volume in 1 s (FEV1 ). There was an association between symptoms and duration of exposure to pulmonary abnormality. Sizing mill workers showed a significant decline in lung functions and an increase in pulmonary symptoms. As the service duration of exposure in terms of years increased, respiratory symptoms increased and spirometric abnormality also increased. CONCLUSION: This study confirms that sizing agents such as polyvinyl alcohol (PVA), emulsifier, wax, carboxymethyl cellulose (CMC), and starch used in sizing mills are also responsible for respiratory illness and lung impairment among textile workers. Show more

Keywords: Textiles; sizing mill; cotton dust; respiratory symptoms; pulmonary function; spirometry

DOI: 10.3233/WOR-230399

Citation: Work, vol. 79, no. 2, pp. 765-774, 2024

Authors: Hagendijk, Marije E. | Tan, Zhouwen | Melles, Marijke | Hoving, Jan L. | van der Burg-Vermeulen, Sylvia J. | Zipfel, Nina

Article Type: Research Article

Abstract: BACKGROUND: Value-based healthcare delivery focuses on optimizing care provided by measuring the healthcare outcomes which are most important to the clients relative to the total care costs. However, the understanding of what adds value for clients during work disability assessment is lacking. OBJECTIVE: To explore what medical examiners (MEs) perceive as valuable during the work disability assessment process, by exploring possible: 1) facilitators, 2) barriers and 3) opportunities to add value for the client during the work disability assessment. METHODS: For this explorative qualitative study, 7 semi-structured interviews were conducted with MEs in …the Netherlands. Thematic coding was performed for all interviews. RESULTS: A large variety of facilitators (n  = 22), barriers (n  = 17) and opportunities (n  = 11) were identified and inductively subdivided into four main themes: 1) coherent process, including all time related aspects, 2) interdisciplinary collaboration, including all aspects related to the collaboration between the ME and other professionals, 3) client-centred interaction, including all aspects related to the supportive interplay from the ME towards the client, and 4) information provision on all aspects during the work disability assessment process towards the client to ensure a valuable work disability assessment process. CONCLUSIONS: The overview of identified possible facilitators, barriers and opportunities to add value for clients from the perspective of the ME may stimulate improvement in the current work disability assessment practice and to better match the client needs. Show more

Keywords: Vocational guidance, return to work, sick leave, value-based health care, delivery of health care, qualitative research

DOI: 10.3233/WOR-230305

Citation: Work, vol. 79, no. 2, pp. 775-788, 2024

Authors: Garcês, Caroline Pereira | Soares, Camila Faleiros Veloso | Sisconeto, Tássia Magnabosco | Martins, Guilherme Cabral Borges | Dias, Marina Abreu | Vivenzio, Rafaella Andrade | Moreira, Thiago Ferreira | Camargo, Yanne da Silva | Crispim, Cibele Aparecida | Balieiro, Laura Cristina Tibiletti | Cheik, Nadia Carla

Article Type: Research Article

Abstract: BACKGROUND: In response to the COVID-19 pandemic, educational institutions had to swiftly adapt and transition to remote teaching in order to maintain academic activities. However, these changes presented a number of challenges for professors, which could have negative effects on their health. OBJECTIVE To analyze the association between changes in dietary and sleep habits, physical activity level, and sedentary behavior with the development of non-communicable diseases (NCDs) among Brazilian higher education professors during the pandemic period. METHODS This is a cross-sectional and retrospective study conducted using an online form. Generalized linear models, adjusted for age, sex, …and body mass index, were used to verify the difference between pre-pandemic and pandemic periods. Logistic regression models were used to predict the odds ratio (OR) for the development of NCDs according to physical activity time, sedentary behavior time, dietary and sleep patterns. RESULTS A total of 936 professors residing across Brazil participated in the survey. The duration of sedentary behavior increased, sleep duration slightly decreased, and meal times shifted to earlier during the pandemic. A total of 22.9%of the participants reported the diagnosis of some NCDs during this period. Physical activity practice was associated with a lower risk of diseases during the pandemic, regardless of the intensity performed. On the other hand, late eating habits and excessive food consumption during the pandemic were associated with a higher risk. CONCLUSION The results provide data that can help in the development of public policies that promote health actions to minimize the consequences associated with the pandemic period. Show more

Keywords: Physical activity, sedentary behavior, feeding behavior, chrononutrition, university professor, coronavirus

DOI: 10.3233/WOR-230518

Citation: Work, vol. 79, no. 2, pp. 789-799, 2024

Authors: Feyzi, Masoud | Navid, Hossein | Castellucci, Héctor Ignacio | Dianat, Iman

Article Type: Research Article

Abstract: BACKGROUND: The dimensional seat design process should consider both the users’ tasks and their physical characteristics. OBJECTIVE: To use an approach for the design and evaluation of seat dimensions based on the anthropometric characteristics of the Iranian population and the requirements of tractor operators. METHODS: Some existing equations relating the seat dimensions to anthropometric characteristics were modified according to logical justifications and international standards. A new mathematical-statistical method was used to extract the equations estimating the constant seat dimensions based on the theoretical maximizing of the accommodation level. In addition, an Overall Seat …Accommodation Score (OSAS) was developed to represent the mean of seat dimensions accommodation level and dimensional accommodation equality, simultaneously. RESULTS: The dimensional seat design can be affected under different conditions of adjustability, esthetic, and space limitations. However, it was shown that it is possible to improve the design of tractor seats without any significant increase in the final cost and complexity. CONCLUSION: A new approach was used for tractor seats for a sample of Iranian operators and can be used for the design and evaluation of tractor seats for other target populations. Show more

Keywords: Agricultural health, dimensional accommodation, ergonomics, seat design

DOI: 10.3233/WOR-230605

Citation: Work, vol. 79, no. 2, pp. 801-818, 2024

Authors: McDonnall, Michele C. | Cmar, Jennifer L.

Article Type: Research Article

Abstract: BACKGROUND: Vision loss increases with age and is thus more likely to happen later in one’s career. With more individuals working beyond typical retirement age, the possibility of experiencing vision loss while working has increased. OBJECTIVE: The purpose of this study was to investigate how developing vision loss during midlife affects employment and retirement. METHOD: Using longitudinal Health and Retirement Study data, we identified a sample of 167 workers, 44 to 64 years old, who developed vision loss and a matched comparison sample of 800 workers who did not. We explored job retention …and retirement differences between the groups and differences between people with vision loss who retained jobs versus those who did not. RESULTS: Vision loss was associated with leaving the labor force, although there was a clear trend over time of increasing likelihood of job retention. Occupational category was associated with job retention and people who continued working had more favorable financial situations. Retirees with vision loss were more likely to report involuntary retirement and dissatisfaction with retirement. CONCLUSIONS: The decreasing likelihood of leaving the labor market after vision loss is an encouraging finding of this study. Workers who left the labor force after vision loss were more likely to be in precarious financial positions, and retirees did not have positive experiences with retirement. Assisting workers with vision loss to remain in the labor force is of vital importance, and increasing awareness and usage of free services for this population may reduce involuntary retirement and its negative consequences. Show more

Keywords: Low vision, reduced vision, visual impairment, employment, employment termination, retirement

DOI: 10.3233/WOR-230669

Citation: Work, vol. 79, no. 2, pp. 819-830, 2024

Authors: Depreli, Özde | Topcu, Zehra Güçhan | Tomaç, Hayriye

Article Type: Research Article

Abstract: BACKGROUND: Appropriate arrangement of classroom ergonomics is necessary for maintaining health and improving academic performance, learning, and motivation. OBJECTIVE: We aimed to determine the anthropometric measurements and ergonomic risk levels of students during a handwriting activity on a fixed desk and chair and to analyze the mismatch and relationships between these factors. METHODS: This study included 149 university students (female:73, male:76). Anthropometric measurements (lower and upper extremity length, shoulder height, elbow-rest height, hip-popliteal length, popliteal height, knee height, the distance between tragus and wall, and between acromion and wall) were done with a …tape measure. The Rapid Upper Limb Assessment (RULA) tool was conducted to determine the ergonomic risk level while students wrote a standard text on a fixed desk and chair as if they were taking notes in the classroom. The mismatch was evaluated between backrest height and sitting shoulder height, seat height, and popliteal height. The Pearson Chi-Square and the Spearman Correlation test were used for statistical analysis. RESULTS: The median values of the participants’ age, height, weight, and BMI were 22 years, 1.70 m, 68 kg, and 23.18 kg/cm2 , respectively. Most students had inadequate ergonomic posture while writing on fixed furniture at the university (Median RULA grand score: 4). More mismatches for seat height (54.4%) were found in high ergonomic risk levels but mismatches for backrest height did not follow a similar result. CONCLUSIONS: More investigation should be conducted with prospective studies including interventions like adjustable furniture. Show more

Keywords: Ergonomics, university, students, anthropometry, furniture, handwriting

DOI: 10.3233/WOR-230590

Citation: Work, vol. 79, no. 2, pp. 831-840, 2024

Authors: Mak, Susanne | Thomas, Aliki | Razack, Saleem | Root, Kelly | Hunt, Matthew

Article Type: Research Article

Abstract: BACKGROUND: Health human resources are scarce worldwide. In occupational therapy (OT), physical therapy (PT), and speech-language pathology (S-LP), attrition and retention issues amplify this situation and contribute to the precarity of health systems. OBJECTIVE: To investigate the phenomena of attrition and retention with OTs, PTs and S-LPs who stayed in, or left their profession. METHODS: Cultural-historical activity theory provided the theoretical scaffolding for this interpretive description study. We used purposeful sampling (maximum variation approach) to recruit OTs, PTs, and S-LPs from Quebec, Canada. Individual interviews were conducted with 51 OTs, PTs, and S-LPs …from Quebec, Canada, in English or French (2019–2020). Inductive and deductive approaches, and constant comparative techniques were used for data analysis. RESULTS: Six themes were developed: 1) characteristics of work that made it meaningful; 2) aspects of work that practitioners appreciate; 3) factors of daily work that weigh on a practitioner; 4) factors that contribute to managing work; 5) relationships with different stakeholders that shape daily work; and 6) perceptions of the profession. Meaningfulness was tied to participants’ sense that their values were reflected in their work. Factors outside work shaped participants’ work experiences. Recurrent negative experiences led some to leave their profession. CONCLUSION: Findings underscore a critical need to address contributing factors to attrition and retention which are essential to ensuring the availability of OTs, PTs and SLPs for present and future rehabilitation needs. Show more

Keywords: Occupational therapy, physical therapy, speech-language pathology, career mobility, rehabilitation, qualitative research, health workforce

DOI: 10.3233/WOR-230531

Citation: Work, vol. 79, no. 2, pp. 841-855, 2024

Authors: Kernkraut, Ana Merzel | Diniz Nagem Janot de Matos, Luciana

Article Type: Research Article

Abstract: BACKGROUND: Psychiatric disorders are the conditions that most contribute to incapacity worldwide. While many healthcare professionals adapt in dealing with various demands, others do not. How much of these conditions is associated with affective experience needs to be studied. OBJECTIVE: Assess the prevalence of anxiety, depression, and stress while investigating the relationship between the presence of positive and negative affect in healthcare professionals. METHODS: This study’s convenience sample consisted of 975 providers (including nursing, physicians, and multidisciplinary team) and administrative professionals (service and supervision teams) working at a general private hospital in Brazil. Data were collected …in 2019 through a socio-demographic questionnaire, the Depression Anxiety and Stress Scale (DASS-21), and the Positive and Negative Affect Schedule (PANAS-X). The results are shown through multinomial regression with odds ratio, 95% confidence interval, and P -value. RESULTS: The prevalence of depression, anxiety, and stress was 49.4%, 46.1%, and 49.8%, respectively, showing high prevalence. It was observed that a high presence of negative affect is associated with a greater likelihood of developing anxiety, depression, and stress, while a high presence of positive affect is associated with a lower likelihood of depression and stress prevalence. CONCLUSIONS: The high prevalence of anxiety, depression and stress in healthcare professionals is associated with the presence of negative affects. Mental disorders should be measured, and practices adopted to ensure well-being and job performance. Show more

Keywords: Anxiety, depression, stress, psychological, affect, health personnel, dyssomnia, musculoskeletal pain, headache

DOI: 10.3233/WOR-230257

Citation: Work, vol. 79, no. 2, pp. 857-866, 2024

Authors: Baytak, Sevgi | Dogru-Huzmeli, Esra | Uysal, Halil Hakan

Article Type: Research Article

Abstract: BACKGROUND: Caring for neurological patients poses a serious burden on caregivers, even in normal times. It is likely that this burden has become even more painful post-COVID-19 pandemic. OBJECTIVE: This study evaluates the effect of the COVID-19 pandemic on the care burden of those who care for patients with chronic neurological diseases. METHODS: The study included 50 patients and 50 caregivers. All the tests were conducted twice, it was answered firstly, according to the pre-COVID-19 pandemic, and secondly, during the COVID-19 pandemic period. The depression levels of the patients and caregivers were assessed with the Beck …Depression Scale, their sleep quality with the Pittsburgh Sleep Quality Index, their quality of life was assessed with the RAND 36-Item Health Survey, and caregivers’ burden of care was evaluated with the Zarit Caregiver Burden Scale. RESULTS: It was observed at the end of the study that the depression levels of patients (p  = 0.00), and caregivers (p  = 0.00) increased post-COVID-19 pandemic, the sleep quality of caregivers (p  = 0.00), and patients (p  = 0.02) decreased post-COVID-19 pandemic. On the other hand, it was determined that caregivers’ burden of care increased (p  = 0.00). Sub-parameters of the RAND 36-Item Health Survey, physical functioning (p  = 0.02), role limitations due to physical health (p  = 0.00), and role limitations due to emotional problems (p  = 0.03) decreased for caregivers. CONCLUSION: In summary, we concluded that the well-being and psychological status of both patients and their caregivers were adversely affected by the COVID-19 pandemic. Show more

Keywords: COVID-19, pandemic, burden, neurological disorders, caregiver, quality of life, depression

DOI: 10.3233/WOR-230710

Citation: Work, vol. 79, no. 2, pp. 867-878, 2024

Authors: Júdice, Pedro B. | Silva, Hélio | Teno, Sabrina C. | Hetherington-Rauth, Megan

Article Type: Research Article

Abstract: BACKGROUND: Prolonged periods of sitting have been linked to negative health outcomes. Implementation of sit-stand desks in the workplace has been one strategy to reduce prolonged sitting. OBJECTIVE: To assess the effectiveness of sit-stand workstations on reducing sitting time and improving other health outcomes of office-based workers. METHODS: 39 Portuguese office workers were randomized into a 6-month parallel-group cluster RCT consisting by the implementation of sit-stand desks in the workplace. The primary outcome of sitting time was assessed using ActivPAL. Secondary outcomes included biometric, psychological, and diet-related variables. All outcomes were assessed at …baseline and 6 months for the whole sample and at 3 months for a sub-sample of the intervention group (n  = 11). RESULTS: No significant time*group interaction was found for the primary or secondary outcomes, apart from waist circumference favoring the control group (Δ –1.81 cm, pinteraction  = 0.04). There were significant changes within the intervention group for sitting time (–44.0 min/day), prolonged sitting (>30 min) (–45.3 min/day) and standing time (51.7 min/day) at 3 months in the sub-sample and in prolonged sitting (>30 min) (–26 min/day) in the full intervention group (p  < 0.05). Changes were also observed within the intervention group for percent body fat (Δ –3.7%) and ratings of quality of life (Δ 2.2), musculoskeletal discomfort (Δ –4.9), overall fatigue (Δ –2.2), and the need for recovery after work (Δ –1.7) at 6-month follow-up (p  < 0.05). CONCLUSION: Although not being effective for reducing sitting time, the implementation of sit-stand desks in the Portuguese workspace was shown to be feasible over the long term, received well by users, and may offer other health benefits. TRIAL REGISTRATION: OSF Registration, OSF.IO/JHGPW. Registered 15 November 2022. https://doi.org/10.17605/OSF.IO/JHGPW. Show more

Keywords: Sitting time, sedentary behavior, contextual modification, ActivPAL, standing time

DOI: 10.3233/WOR-230624

Citation: Work, vol. 79, no. 2, pp. 879-890, 2024