Work - Volume 57, issue 1

Authors: Karen,

Article Type: Editorial

DOI: 10.3233/WOR-172545

Citation: Work, vol. 57, no. 1, pp. 1-2, 2017

Authors: Eidson, Christopher A. | Jenkins, Gavin R. | Yuen, Hon K. | Abernathy, Anne M. | Brannon, Mary Beth | Pung, Anna R. | Ward, Kiara D. | Weaver, Tara E.

Article Type: Research Article

Abstract: BACKGROUND: To identify physical measures that predict maximal handgrip strength (MHGS) and provide evidence for identifying lack of sincerity of effort when assessing upper extremity weakness. OBJECTIVE: This study investigated anthropometric measurements associated with MHGS of healthy young adults. METHODS: A convenience sample of 150 healthy adults ages 19 to 34 years old completed the MHGS assessment, which was measured using a Jamar dynamometer according to the protocol of the American Society of Hand Therapists, for both dominant and non-dominant hands. Several anthropometric data were collected, which included height, body weight, forearm length, forearm circumference, …hand length, and hand width. RESULTS: Multivariable linear regression analysis indicated gender and hand width were uniquely and significantly associated with participants’ MHGS for dominant and non-dominant hand and accounted for more than 60% of the variance, with R2  = 0.60, P  < 0.001 for the dominant hand model and R2  = 0.64, P  < 0.001 for the non-dominant hand model. CONCLUSIONS: Among the forearm and hand anthropometric measures, hand width is the best predictor of MHGS in both the non-dominant and dominant hands for healthy young adults. Show more

Keywords: Regression models, millennials, malingering

DOI: 10.3233/WOR-172537

Citation: Work, vol. 57, no. 1, pp. 3-8, 2017

Authors: Bragança, Sara | Arezes, Pedro | Carvalho, Miguel | Ashdown, Susan P. | Xu, Bugao | Castellucci, Ignacio

Article Type: Research Article

Abstract: BACKGROUND: Understanding the reliability and precision of the data obtained using three-dimensional body scanners is very important if it is intended to replace the traditional data collection methods. If the collection of anthropometric data with three-dimensional body scanners is a fast and reliable process that produces precise data at a low price, it could be used for numerous applications worldwide. Many studies have addressed data collected by white light and laser based scanners. OBJECTIVE: This study provides a comparative analysis between the anthropometric data collected using a Kinect body imaging system with the data collected using traditional …manual methods. Moreover, a comparison is also made between the results obtained in this study and the results of previous studies of different types of body scanners. METHODS: The Mean Absolute Difference was calculated and all the values were compared to the maximum allowable error defined in ISO 20685. Additionally, an analysis of the significant differences between the two acquisition methods was also applied to a physical mannequin, to understand how the body movement and body stance variation in human participants impacts the results obtained. RESULTS: There are few body measurements that are close to this restricted allowable error. The results were better when the mannequin was measured. Although they were still above the ISO 20685 limit, they were much closer than the results obtained for human participants. CONCLUSION: The main cause of the differences between the two methods is the time required for the 3D system to acquire the data. The involuntary body sway of human participants is more difficult to control when the time span is too long. Show more

Keywords: Traditional anthropometry, 3D body scanners, Kinect, reliability, precision

DOI: 10.3233/WOR-172532

Citation: Work, vol. 57, no. 1, pp. 9-21, 2017

Authors: Patti, Antonino | Bianco, Antonino | Karsten, Bettina | Montalto, Maria Alessandra | Battaglia, Giuseppe | Bellafiore, Marianna | Cassata, Daniela | Scoppa, Fabio | Paoli, Antonio | Iovane, Angelo | Messina, Giuseppe | Palma, Antonio

Article Type: Research Article

Abstract: BACKGROUND: Research supports a link between exercise and falls prevention in the older population. OBJECTIVES: Our aims were to evaluate pain perception and balance skills in a group of elderly subjects and to examine the consequences of a standardized equipment-free exercise program intervention on these variables. The study utilized a randomized controlled trial method. METHODS: 92 subjects were recruited from a rural Sicilian village (Resuttano, Sicily, Italy). Subjects were randomly split into two groups, an experimental group (EG; n  = 49) and a control group (CG; n  = 43). Qualified fitness instructors delivered the standardized physical exercise …program for the EG whilst the CG did not receive this exercise intervention. The Berg Balance Scale and the Oswestry Disability Index were administered in both groups before (T0) and after the intervention (T1). RESULTS: At T1, the EG group significantly improvement in balance (p  < 0.0001) and pain perception (p  < 0.0001). No significant differences were found within the CG both in BBS and ODI, respectively. CONCLUSIONS: Our findings suggest that a 13-weeks standardized exercise equipment-free program is effective in improving balance and perception of pain in the elderly. This type of intervention can consequently provide a low cost strategy to counteract the rate of disability in elderly. Show more

Keywords: Elderly, pain, balance, exercise

DOI: 10.3233/WOR-172539

Citation: Work, vol. 57, no. 1, pp. 23-30, 2017

Authors: Dorsey, Julie | Hedge, Alan

Article Type: Research Article

Abstract: BACKGROUND: There is a need to better understand the perceived experiences of workers in green buildings as the literature to this point has been mixed. OBJECTIVES: To re-evaluate occupant experiences within a LEED platinum building and investigate current experiences in general. METHODS: An online post occupancy evaluation (POE) survey of 62 occupants of LEED Platinum building on a US college campus is reported. The online survey addressed indoor environmental quality in relation to health, productivity and satisfaction. RESULTS: Of the respondents, 38.7% had participated in a prior POE of this building in 2011 …and results were compared for this subgroup, as well as for overall results. There was a significant increase in satisfaction with office workstations and air freshness as compared to 3 years earlier. However, there was also a significant increase in reported frequency of all physical symptoms. When looking just at the current POE results, control over features of the workstation had a significant relationship with most outcomes of interest. CONCLUSION: While improvements have been noted, issues continue to exist that have implications for health, productivity and satisfaction. The results of this study have implications for the ergonomic design of workstations and indoor environmental quality within LEED buildings. Show more

Keywords: Green buildings, office ergonomics, indoor environmental conditions, occupant health and comfort

DOI: 10.3233/WOR-172535

Citation: Work, vol. 57, no. 1, pp. 31-41, 2017

Authors: Siqueira, Joseana C.F. | da Silva, Luiz Bueno | Coutinho, Antônio S. | Rodrigues, Rafaela M.

Article Type: Research Article

Abstract: BACKGROUND: The increase in air temperature has been associated with human deaths, some of which are related to cardiovascular dysfunctions, and with the reduction of physical and cognitive performance in humans. OBJECTIVE: To analyze the relationship between blood pressure (BP) and heart rate (HR) and the cognitive performance of students who were submitted to temperature changes in classrooms. METHODS: The university students answered a survey that was adapted from the Battery of Reasoning Tests over 3 consecutive days at different air temperatures while their thermal state and HR were measured. During those 3 days, BP …and HR were evaluated before and after the cognitive test. RESULTS: The average and final HR increased at high temperatures; the tests execution time was reduced at high temperatures; and the cognitive tests was related to Mean BP at the beginning of the test, the maximum HR during the test and the air temperature. CONCLUSIONS: The cognitive performance of undergraduate students in the field of engineering and technology will increase while performing activities in a learning environment with an air temperature of approximately 23.3°C (according to their thermal perception), if students have an initial MBP of 93.33 mmHg and a 60 bpm HRmax. Show more

Keywords: Thermal comfort, thermoregulation, cognitive activity, productivity, cardiovascular system

DOI: 10.3233/WOR-172533

Citation: Work, vol. 57, no. 1, pp. 43-54, 2017

Authors: Forté, Lydia | Lanctôt, Nathalie | Geoffrion, Steve | Marchand, André | Guay, Stéphane

Article Type: Research Article

Abstract: BACKGROUND: Exposure to violence in the mental health sector both affects employees and has implications for the quality of care provided. OBJECTIVE: This phenomenological study aims to describe and understand the ways in which acts of aggression from a patient might affect workers in a psychiatric institute, their relationships with the patients and the services offered. METHODS: Two semi-structured interviews were conducted with each of the 15 participants from various professions within a psychiatric hospital. RESULTS: Our analysis reveals four themes: hypervigilance, caring, specific fear toward the aggressor and generalized fear of all …patients. A state of hypervigilance is found among all participants. An emphasis on caring is present among the majority and unfolds as a continuum, ranging from being highly caring to showing little or no caring. A feeling of fear is expressed and is influenced by the participant’s place on the caring continuum. Caring workers developed a specific fear of their aggressor, whereas those showing little or no caring developed a generalized fear of all patients. Following a violent event, caring participants maintained this outlook, whereas those demonstrating little to no caring were more inclined to disinvest from all patients. CONCLUSIONS: Hypervigilance and fear caused by experiences of violence impact the quality of care provided. Considerable interest should thus be paid to caring, which can influence fear and its effects. Show more

Keywords: Agression, workplace, quality of care, phenomenology

DOI: 10.3233/WOR-172540

Citation: Work, vol. 57, no. 1, pp. 55-67, 2017

Authors: Rahman, Mohd Nasrull Abdol | Mohamad, Siti Shafika

Article Type: Research Article

Abstract: BACKGROUND: Computer works are associated with Musculoskeletal Disorders (MSDs). There are several methods have been developed to assess computer work risk factor related to MSDs. OBJECTIVE: This review aims to give an overview of current techniques available for pen-and-paper-based observational methods in assessing ergonomic risk factors of computer work. METHODS: We searched an electronic database for materials from 1992 until 2015. The selected methods were focused on computer work, pen-and-paper observational methods, office risk factors and musculoskeletal disorders. This review was developed to assess the risk factors, reliability and validity of pen-and-paper observational method associated …with computer work. Two evaluators independently carried out this review. RESULTS: Seven observational methods used to assess exposure to office risk factor for work-related musculoskeletal disorders were identified. The risk factors involved in current techniques of pen and paper based observational tools were postures, office components, force and repetition. From the seven methods, only five methods had been tested for reliability. They were proven to be reliable and were rated as moderate to good. For the validity testing, from seven methods only four methods were tested and the results are moderate. CONCLUSION: Many observational tools already exist, but no single tool appears to cover all of the risk factors including working posture, office component, force, repetition and office environment at office workstations and computer work. Although the most important factor in developing tool is proper validation of exposure assessment techniques, the existing observational method did not test reliability and validity. Futhermore, this review could provide the researchers with ways on how to improve the pen-and-paper-based observational method for assessing ergonomic risk factors of computer work. Show more

Keywords: Pen-and-paper-based, observational methods, ergonomic, risk factors, computer works

DOI: 10.3233/WOR-172541

Citation: Work, vol. 57, no. 1, pp. 69-77, 2017

Authors: Frasquilho, Diana | de Matos, Margarida Gaspar | Marques, Adilson | Gaspar, Tânia | de Almeida, J.M. Caldas

Article Type: Research Article

Abstract: BACKGROUND: The economic recession produced a rapid rise of unemployment rates that was more visible in Southern European countries. There is evidence that unemployment correlates highly with individuals’ poor life satisfaction. OBJECTIVE: To analyse the relationship between life satisfaction, household composition and socioeconomic deprivation in people facing unemployment during the economic recession. METHODS: A sample of 748 unemployed people from Lisbon (Portugal) completed a socio-demographic questionnaire, the Cantril’s ladder of life scale, and the latent and manifest benefits of work scale (LAMB). Multiple regression analyses were used to test the associations between life satisfaction and …all other variables. RESULTS: Partnered people report higher life satisfaction compared to singles. Financial deprivation and lack of structured time were the strongest factors negatively related to life satisfaction in both partnered and single people. Having children had a particular negative effect on the life satisfaction of partnered men; and living with an unemployed partner together with lack of social contact and high enforced activity had a negative effect on life satisfaction in partnered women. CONCLUSION: The heterogeneity of socioeconomic needs found by household composition bring practical policy implications for support actions targeting unemployed individuals in the unique context of economic recession. Show more

Keywords: Marital status, parenthood status, socioeconomic factors, jobless, well-being

DOI: 10.3233/WOR-172536

Citation: Work, vol. 57, no. 1, pp. 79-86, 2017

Authors: Abaraogu, Ukachukwu O. | Ezenwankwo, Elochukwu F. | Nwadilibe, Ijeoma B. | Nwafor, Geoffrey C. | Ugwuele, Bianca O. | Uzoh, Pascal C. | Ani, Ifunanya | Amarachineke, Kinsley | Atuma, Collins | Ewelunta, Obed

Article Type: Research Article

Abstract: BACKGROUND: Heavy backpacks have been associated with various postural changes and consequently musculoskeletal disorders. OBJECTIVE: We evaluated the immediate responses of varying backpack loads on cranio-vertebral angle (CVA), sagittal shoulder angle (SSA) and trunk forward lean (TFL) of young adults between the ages of 18–25 years. METHODS: This was a 3×3 cross over randomized controlled study with repeated measures among a convenience sample of young adults (n  = 30; 50% male, 50% female). Each participant in a standing posture was assessed at four different loads: no backpack, carrying backpack of 5%, 10%, and 15% of body …weight (BW). A sagittal photograph was taken of the area of the body corresponding to spinal angle during each of these test conditions to allow for later analysis of postural deviations. Comparisons of the mean deviations of the different postural angles from baseline and between test conditions were made using ANOVA at p ≤0.05. RESULTS: Generally, there was a trend toward a decrease in the CVA and TFL with increasing backpack loads. Specifically, a significant decrease was seen for TFL at10% and 15% BW loads when compared with no load condition. In contrast, the decrease in CVA was only significant between no load condition and 15% body weight load. The SSA remained unchanged with backpack weight within 15% BW. CONCLUSION: Whereas the SSA of young adults may not be upset by an acute loading with a backpack within 15% of body weight, a 15% BW backpack led to more forward posture of the head on the neck. In addition, backpack load as low as 10% BW is enough to cause an immediate forward lean of the trunk. Show more

Keywords: Backpack load, cranio-vertebral angle, sagittal shoulder angle, trunk forward lean, postural change

DOI: 10.3233/WOR-172531

Citation: Work, vol. 57, no. 1, pp. 87-93, 2017

Authors: Myers, Edwin | Triscari, Robert

Article Type: Research Article

Abstract: BACKGROUND: The purpose of this study was to provide evidence regarding the Baltimore Therapeutic Equipment (BTE) Work Simulator II’s recommended grip endurance protocol. The grip endurance protocol of the BTE Simulator II has never been validated, though it has been used often for the rehabilitation of work-related injuries and other occupational dysfunctions. Without validation, the grip endurance protocol may or may not be providing skilled clinicians with appropriate evaluation results. This study evaluated a protocol comparing the BTE Simulator II to the Jamar Dynamometer to determine how the BTE compares to the Jamar device. OBJECTIVE: To establish …whether the recommended grip endurance protocol for the BTE Simulator II is comparable to the parameters established for the Jamar handgrip dynamometer. METHODS: Data were gathered from 140 participants ages 18 to 40 at the time of the study. Participants completed protocols established for the BTE Simulator II and compared to a performance of a grip strength endurance protocol for the Jamar Handgrip Dynamometer. After establishing baseline strength levels for the participants, they were timed to see how long they could sustain a 30% maximum voluntary contraction (MVC) on each device. Sample t -tests were calculated to compare the results of the BTE Simulator II to the previously validated Jamar device. RESULTS: A dependent sample t- test found no statistically significant difference between the times a participant sustained 30% of their maximum voluntary contraction (MVC) on the BTE Simulator II with attachment #162 versus the Jamar Dynamometer when comparing the differences of the means. This provides possible evidence of validity for the BTE endurance protocol. The independent sample t- test found no statistically significant difference between the grip endurance of the males versus the females, however, the means indicate men sustained 30% of their MVC longer than their female counterparts on the BTE. CONCLUSIONS: The findings indicate that the 30% MVC may be a reliable baseline for grip strength endurance testing following the BTE Simulator II protocol. This suggests that the BTE Simulator II’s endurance protocol may be a useful tool to document client progression during rehabilitation after sustaining an upper extremity dysfunction. Further research is needed to validate this protocol using different populations. Show more

Keywords: Muscular endurance, functional capacity evaluation, grip endurance, maximum voluntary contraction (MVC), grip strength

DOI: 10.3233/WOR-172542

Citation: Work, vol. 57, no. 1, pp. 95-103, 2017

Authors: Leibler, Jessica H. | Janulewicz, Patricia A. | Perry, Melissa J.

Article Type: Research Article

Abstract: BACKGROUND: Workers in the animal slaughter and processing industry in the United States experience high rates of occupational injury as well as stressful work conditions, yet mental health in this workforce remains largely unstudied. OBJECTIVE: To assess prevalence of serious psychological distress (SPD) in a sample of industrial US slaughterhouse workers. PARTICIPANTS: Workers at an industrial beef packing plant in Nebraska, United States (n  = 137). METHODS: We interviewed workers using the Kessler-6, a well-validated measure of non-specific anxiety disorders, to assess SPD. We compared SPD prevalence with national estimates from 2009 CDC’s Behavioral …Risk Factor Surveillance Study. RESULTS: Prevalence of SPD among workers was 4.4%, compared to United States population-wide prevalence of 3.6%. Prevalence of mild and moderate psychological distress among these workers (14.6%) was also higher than national estimates. Recent occupational injury, work area and job activities were not associated with elevated prevalence of SPD. Non-Hispanic white workers experienced elevated prevalence of SPD compared to Hispanic or Latino workers (prevalence odds ratio: 6.4; CI: 1.3, 30.5; p  = 0.012). CONCLUSION: Workers at a US industrial slaughterhouse experienced higher prevalence of SPD compared to United States population-wide estimates, but occupational risk factors for this outcome were not identified. Show more

Keywords: Abattoir, stress, agricultural workers, occupational health psychology, occupational injury

DOI: 10.3233/WOR-172543

Citation: Work, vol. 57, no. 1, pp. 105-109, 2017

Authors: Schulz, Celia H. | Godwin, Kyler M. | Hersch, Gayle I. | Hyde, Leslie K. | Irabor, Jocelyn J. | Ostwald, Sharon K.

Article Type: Research Article

Abstract: BACKGROUND: Return to work is an issue of concern for stroke survivors and their spouses. Ramifications may include loss of income and self-efficacy. OBJECTIVE: This study describes the return to work patterns of stroke survivors and their spousal caregivers post stroke. METHODS: One hundred fifty-nine dyads were examined for their return to work patterns at baseline (post hospital discharge) and then at 3 month intervals for one year. Relationships were determined between work and gender, age, ethnicity, education, type of insurance, type of stroke, location of stroke, motor and cognitive functional status, depression, mutuality, and …life satisfaction. RESULTS: Low levels of return to work by stroke survivors (7.5%) and a small decrease in the amount of working caregivers (from 45.3% to 40.35%) were found one year post baseline. Variables that predicted return to work changed over the five data points except for younger age for the caregiver, which was consistently significant across all data points. Three case scenarios representative of working patterns are offered. CONCLUSIONS: Further research is needed regarding the return to work needs of stroke survivors and their spousal caregivers, particularly what role the occupational therapist may play in facilitating that process. Show more

Keywords: CVA, recovery, employment, function, self-efficacy

DOI: 10.3233/WOR-172544

Citation: Work, vol. 57, no. 1, pp. 111-124, 2017

Authors: Zhou, Biru | Marchand, Alain | Guay, Stéphane

Article Type: Research Article

Abstract: BACKGROUND: Workplace violence is a serious concern for workers’ mental health and well-being in high risk work sectors. OBJECTIVE: This study examined victims’ and witnesses’ experiences after exposure to workplace violence, and the types of help they used to cope with the violent event. METHODS: Workers (n  = 211) from five different work sectors participated in our study. Multiple mediation analysis was used to investigate the indirect effects through psychological and work consequences on victims’ versus witnesses’ differential likelihood of using formal, paraformal and informal helping. RESULTS: Results showed that workplace violence has detrimental …effects on both victims and witnesses. Direct victims were more negatively affected psychologically and at work than witnesses. The indirect effect through psychological difficulty after experiencing workplace violence was significant in predicting formal helping. The indirect effect through reduced work functioning in predicting paraformal helping was also significant. No significant indirect effect was found in predicting informal helping. CONCLUSIONS: Both victims and witnesses used multiple types of helping to cope with the violent event. This study has practical implications on management and clinical practices for better organizations of resources in helping victims and witnesses to cope with workplace violence. Show more

Keywords: Workplace aggression, psychological consequences, work functioning, vicarious experiences, paraformal helping

DOI: 10.3233/WOR-172538

Citation: Work, vol. 57, no. 1, pp. 125-135, 2017

Authors: Mehralizadeh, Semira | Dehdashti, Alireza | Motalebi Kashani, Masoud

Article Type: Research Article

Abstract: BACKGROUND: Statistics indicate a high risk of developing work-related musculoskeletal disorders among hospital nurses. The challenge is to understand the associations between musculoskeletal symptoms and various individual and occupational risk factors. OBJECTIVE: This study examined the direct and indirect interactions of various risk factors with musculoskeletal complaints in hospital nurses. METHOD: In a cross-sectional design, Iranian hospital nurses from Semnan University of Medical Sciences participated in a questionnaire survey reporting their perceived perceptions of various work-related risk factors and musculoskeletal symptoms. We tested our proposed structural equation model to evaluate the relations between latent and …observed concepts and the relative importance and strength of exogenous variables in explaining endogenous musculoskeletal complaints. RESULTS: Measurement model fits the data relatively acceptable. Our findings showed direct effects of psychological, role-related and work posture stressors on musculoskeletal complaints. Fatigue mediated the adverse indirect relations of psychological, role-related, work posture and individual factors with musculoskeletal complaints. CONCLUSIONS: Structural equation modeling may provide methodological opportunities in occupational health research with a potential to explain the complexity of interactions among risk factors. Prevention of work-related musculoskeletal disorders among nurses must account for physical and psychosocial conditions. Show more

Keywords: Musculoskeletal disorders, structural model, occupational risk factors

DOI: 10.3233/WOR-172534

Citation: Work, vol. 57, no. 1, pp. 137-146, 2017