Work - Volume 67, issue 4

Authors: Soltaninejad, Mohammadreza | Yarmohammadi, Hamed | Madrese, Elham | Khaleghi, Saeed | Poursadeqiyan, Mohsen | Aminizadeh, Mohsen | Saberinia, Amin

Article Type: Review Article

Abstract: BACKGROUND: Metabolic syndrome is an increasing disorder, especially in night workers. Drivers are considered to work during 24 hours a day. Because of job characteristics such as stress, low mobility and long working hours, they are at risk of a metabolic syndrome disorder. OBJECTIVES: The purpose of this study is a meta-analysis and systematic review of the prevalence of metabolic syndrome in drivers. METHODS: In this systematic review, articles were extracted from national and international databases: Scientific Information Database (SID), Iran Medex, Mag Iran, Google Scholar, Science Direct, PubMed, ProQuest, and Scopus. Data analysis was performed …using meta-analysis and systematic review (random effect model). The calculation of heterogeneity was carried out using the I2 index and Cochran’s Q test. All statistical analyses were performed using STATA software version 11. RESULTS: A total of nine articles related to the prevalence of metabolic syndrome in drivers in different regions of the world from 2008 to 2016 were obtained. The total sample size studied was 26156 with an average of 2906 samples per study. The prevalence of metabolic syndrome in drivers was 34% (95% CI: 30–37) CONCLUSIONS: According to the results of this study, the prevalence of metabolic syndrome in drivers is high. Occupational stress, unhealthy diet and physical inactivity cannot be cited as causes of metabolic syndrome prevalence in drivers. Therefore, to maintain and to improve the health of this group, the implementation of preventive, therapeutic and rehabilitation measures for these people as well as training should be considered. Show more

Keywords: Metabolic syndrome, driver, meta-analysis, systematic review

DOI: 10.3233/WOR-203335

Citation: Work, vol. 67, no. 4, pp. 829-835, 2020

Authors: Vahedi, Zahra | Mazloumi, Adel | Sharifnezhad, Ali | Kazemi, Zeinab | Garosi, Ehsan

Article Type: Research Article

Abstract: BACKGROUND: Smartphones (SPs) are widely used by people of all age groups and genders. Users spend many hours per day on the SPs for different purposes, which imposes significant stress on their musculoskeletal system. OBJECTIVES: This study explored head forward flexion, lateral bending angle, and viewing distance while working with a SP in sitting/standing postures and one-handed/two-handed grips. The users’ performance as well as pain development were also investigated. METHODS: Participants answered a questionnaire on pain experience before and after SP usage. Neck kinematics of 20 SP users were monitored by a motion analysis system while …doing three tasks (typing, video watching, and reading) in sitting and standing postures. Performance was evaluated by number of typed words, amount of errors in typing, and total read words. RESULTS: The results indicated a significant increase in pain complaints in neck and upper limbs after test completion. Working with SPs in sitting and standing postures were, respectively, associated with greater head forward flexion for watching and viewing distance for two-handed typing tasks. Higher left lateral bending values were measured for one-handed watching and reading tasks in standing posture. The performance measures were superior for two-handed grips in all conditions. CONCLUSIONS: Overall, using SPs in sitting posture creates greater head forward flexion and lower lateral bending angles in all tasks and grip types. The findings of this study can be used to provide recommendations for SP users. Show more

Keywords: Smartphone, forward head flexion, neck lateral bending, viewing distance, motion capture, pain, performance, neck kinematics, musculoskeletal symptoms

DOI: 10.3233/WOR-203303

Citation: Work, vol. 67, no. 4, pp. 837-846, 2020

Authors: Areeudomwong, Pattanasin | Bootsast, Wasuphol | Thapthimthong, Chalalai | Manop, Patchareeporn | Buttagat, Vitsarut

Article Type: Research Article

Abstract: BACKGROUND: While kinesio taping (KT) is used in several clinical settings to correct posture and reduce pain, KT effects during smartphone texting are unknown. OBJECTIVE: To investigate the effects among healthy young adults of KT on neck-shoulder discomfort and electromyographic (EMG) responses of neck and upper trunk muscles during smartphone texting. METHODS: Twenty-four participants performed a 30-minute texting task on a smartphone using both hands at two separate times under one of two conditions: KT on the right shoulder and no taping. Neck-shoulder discomfort was assessed, along with the normalized root mean square (NRMS) and normalized …median frequency (NMF) of the right cervical erector spinae (CES), lower trapezius (LT), and serratus anterior (SA). RESULTS: Compared to baseline, both groups had significantly greater neck-shoulder discomfort, and NRMS and NMF of all muscles (p  < 0.001) after performing a 30-minute texting task. Comparing between groups, the KT group experienced significantly less neck-shoulder discomfort, and demonstrated delayed deterioration of NRMS and NMF of right CES and LT muscles (p  < 0.05). CONCLUSIONS: During smartphone texting, KT on the shoulder decreased neck-shoulder discomfort and delayed reduction of activation and fatigue of neck and upper trunk muscles among healthy young adults. Show more

Keywords: Strapping, mobile device, pain, muscle activity, fatigability

DOI: 10.3233/WOR-203336

Citation: Work, vol. 67, no. 4, pp. 847-854, 2020

Authors: Lee, Joo Ae | Chang, Yoon Seok | Karwowski, Waldemar

Article Type: Research Article

Abstract: BACKGROUND: Order picking activities are the most labor-intensive processes in retail warehouses. Although various automated order picking technologies have been developed recently, human intervention continues to be required. Most advanced order picking systems can be classified into automated storage and retrieval system (AS/RS) and moving robot types. Both types of goods-to-picker systems aim to reduce the picker’s travel time required to determine product locations and to move these products to meet customer requests. OBJECTIVE: Many studies on the efficiency and effectiveness of automated order picking systems have focused solely on system performance. Since human operators play an essential …part in order picking systems from both the effectiveness and efficiency point of view, the work-related risk factors for the workers interacting with these systems should also be evaluated. In this paper, we assess the ergonomic design features of two system types, a moving robot (MR) and automated storage and retrieval system (AS/RS), focusing on the assessment of the risk factors for work-related postural stresses. METHODS: We compare the performance factors of two order picking systems, i.e. MR and AS/RS, by applying a digital human modeling and simulation, and assessing the total average physical activity exhibited by human operators on a given order picking task. RESULTS: The AS/RS type order picking system exhibited a lower risk for task-related postural stresses for warehouse workers. CONCLUSIONS: The picking station for moving robot (MR) order picking system requires design changes in order to reduce postural stresses during human operator’s interaction with such a system. Show more

Keywords: Warehouse order picking systems, postural stresses, electromyography, work assessment

DOI: 10.3233/WOR-203337

Citation: Work, vol. 67, no. 4, pp. 855-866, 2020

Authors: Joshi, Anurag | Kiran, Ravi

Article Type: Research Article

Abstract: BACKGROUND: Academic stress is one of the active research domains in engineering institutions. As it can result in ill health of students, it is important to monitor the level of academic stress in students. OBJECTIVE: The objective of this study was to determine the academic stress factors in the engineering universities in Punjab state of India. This study also aimed to check the determinants of academic stress. METHODS: The data was collected through a questionnaire survey conducted on engineering students of two different universities. The collected data out of 400 surveys is subjected to factor analysis …and ANOVA. RESULTS: Factor analysis revealed various factors that influence the academic stress. It was also found that the academic stress in students is most influenced by Engineering Streams and Nature of Universities. CONCLUSIONS: The study projected the effects of Academic Stress on Gender, Age, Engineering Streams, Nature of Universities. Show more

Keywords: Gender, age, engineering streams, nature of universities, questionnaire

DOI: 10.3233/WOR-203338

Citation: Work, vol. 67, no. 4, pp. 867-879, 2020

Authors: de Lima, Paloma Barbosa | Alves, Ana Cristina de Jesus

Article Type: Research Article

Abstract: BACKGROUND: The practice of occupational therapy in parasports aims to improve participation in sports as an occupation, reducing barriers stemming from the environmental factors. OBJECTIVE: To analyze the process of choice, prescription and follow-up of assistive technology (AT) in competitive adolescent parasports using the theoretical model Matching Person and Technology. METHODS: Case study with 3 adolescents from 12 to 18 years old in Bocce and Para-badminton modalities was performed. Characterization Questionnaire; Quebec User Evaluation of Satisfaction with assistive Technology (B-Quest); Assistive Technology Device - Predisposition Assessment (ATD PA-Br); Brazil Criteria and Intervention Report were used. …RESULTS: Level of income was intermediate and low. The AT used were handcrafted by family and coaches. The Psychosocial factors detected were low privacy, autonomy, discomfort and device appearance. Pre-intervention there was dissatisfaction with AT related to the device and the context. Post-intervention, satisfaction scores increased. CONCLUSIONS: The model was a positive guide regarding the intervention of technology in the parasport, directing the participation of the specialist with the parathletes, their family and coaches, in the continuous monitoring of its use. This was key for the satisfaction in using the AT in sports, besides contributing to their occupational performance and maintaining people with disability in parasports, increasing the possibility of adolescents becoming professional para-athletes. Further studies in this area are suggested. Show more

Keywords: Participation, disability, adolescents for occupational therapy, sport, MPT model, assistive technology

DOI: 10.3233/WOR-203339

Citation: Work, vol. 67, no. 4, pp. 881-893, 2020

Authors: Wells, Robyn | Zhu, Xinhui

Article Type: Research Article

Abstract: BACKGROUND: Marching band activities consist of both physically and cognitively demanding tasks. The demands that this activity has on players has largely been unstudied. OBJECTIVE: The goal of this study was to investigate the effects of players’ experience level, role, and gender on the workload of marching band players via a field study. METHODS: Surveys were issued during one game day to the Oregon State University Marching Band (OSUMB) in the fall of 2017. Increments of discomfort ratings and workload ratings were gathered. The three independent variables were experience level (novice or experienced), role (leader …or non-leader), and gender. RESULTS: Novice players had a higher discomfort for their left hand and a higher level of cognitive demand as opposed to experienced players. Leaders had a higher increment of discomfort in their neck and upper back, and higher workload ratings in their performance workload and overall weighted workload than the non-leaders. Gender had no effect on increment of discomfort and workload, but some trends were noted. CONCLUSIONS: This study indicates that players’ role and experience, but not gender, can influence their workloads and discomfort. Show more

Keywords: Musculoskeletal disorders (MSDs), discomfort, young adult, role, music players

DOI: 10.3233/WOR-203340

Citation: Work, vol. 67, no. 4, pp. 895-901, 2020

Authors: Johansson, Maria | Nygren, Magnus | Berglund, Leif

Article Type: Research Article

Abstract: BACKGROUND: From the 1960s until the beginning of the 1990s, the construction industry in Sweden received support for health and safety issues from Bygghälsan, an Occupational Health Service (OHS) that targeted the construction industry. In the 1990s, a reorganization of the OHS changed the relations between the actors involved. OBJECTIVES: This study explores these changed relations between the construction industry and the “old” industry-specific Bygghälsan versus the relations with “new” external OHS. METHODS: Semi-structured interviews were conducted with 22 interviewees from the construction industry and individuals involved in OHS which were transcribed and analyzed. …RESULTS: The results suggest that OHS have changed towards a more general character instead of tailor-made services which has had a negative effect on the relations. Further, Bygghälsan was perceived as being a part of the construction industry while contemporary OHS providers were perceived as outsiders which further complicates building trustful relations. CONCLUSIONS: The relation between the construction industry and Bygghälsan was perceived as better compared to the relations with the new companies providing external OHS. The main barrier to building better relations is the perception that contemporary OHS do not have the same knowledge about the construction industry as Bygghälsan. Show more

Keywords: Bygghälsan, collaboration, health and safety

DOI: 10.3233/WOR-203341

Citation: Work, vol. 67, no. 4, pp. 903-915, 2020

Authors: Zomkowski, Kamilla | Bergmann, Anke | Sacomori, Cinara | Dias, Mirella | Sperandio, Fabiana Flores

Article Type: Research Article

Abstract: BACKGROUND: Breast cancer treatments lead to several comorbidities in the upper limbs, such as pain and stiffness, hindering physical functions and the return to work. OBJECTIVE: To explore the functionality and factors associated with work behaviour among manual and non-manual Brazilian workers who have recovered from breast cancer. METHODS: This is an observational cross-sectional study involving Brazilian breast cancer survivors. The sociodemographic, work, and clinical aspects were assessed through clinical records, upper limb disability, and human functionality obtained from 62 women. Multiple and univariate logistic regressions were used to identify the association of variables on return …to work, p  < 0.05. RESULTS: 56.5% of women did not return to work, the mean time for returning to work was 16 months (±15.21), absenteeism from work lasted 41 months (±34.58). Modified radical mastectomy (OR = 5.13, 95% CI = 1.35 to 18.66) and moderate-to-severe disability levels in the upper limbs (OR = 6.77, 95% CI = 1.86 to 24.92) were associated with not returning to work. The loss of productivity was higher among non-manual workers (21.5%) (p  = 0.040). CONCLUSIONS: The rates of not returning to work after breast cancer treatment are high. Women who did not return to work presented higher levels of disability. Show more

Keywords: Work capacity evaluation, breast neoplasms, return to work, ergonomics

DOI: 10.3233/WOR-203342

Citation: Work, vol. 67, no. 4, pp. 917-925, 2020

Authors: Mollayeva, Tatyana | Sharma, Bhanu | Vernich, Lee | Mantis, Steve | Lewko, John | Gibson, Brian | Liss, Gary | Kontos, Pia | Grigorovich, Alisa | Colantonio, Angela

Article Type: Research Article

Abstract: BACKGROUND: Recent studies have started disentangling components of disturbed sleep as part of the post-concussive syndrome, but little is known about the workers with an injury’ perspectives on post-injury sleep changes or what causes these changes. OBJECTIVES: To determine the effects of work-related concussion/mild traumatic brain injury (wr-mTBI) on perceptions of refreshing sleep in workers with an injury and to identify the relevant factors responsible for sleep changes. METHODS: We studied post-concussive changes in sleep in 66 adults (50% male workers, 42% aged 30–50 years, median post-injury days: 155) who had sustained wr-mTBI and experienced functional …limitations long after the injury. We collected sociodemographic, occupational and health status data and identified variables related to post-concussive changes in refreshing sleep. RESULTS: Forty-seven workers with wr-mTBI (79% of male workers, 64% of female workers) perceived their sleep as being refreshing before injury and unrefreshing afterwards (χ2 = 67.70 for change, χ2 = 27.6 for female and χ2 = 41.1 for male workers, p  < 0.0001). Post-concussive losses in refreshing sleep were associated with socio demographic, occupational, and health status data variables. Sex stratification revealed differences between male and female workers. CONCLUSIONS: Workers with wr-mTBI experience clinically meaningful changes in refreshing sleep that are associated with modifiable variables. The observed differences in functional outcomes between male and female workers warrant further study. Show more

Keywords: Fatigue, Global Assessment of Functioning, insomnia, mild traumatic brain injury, occupational injury

DOI: 10.3233/WOR-203343

Citation: Work, vol. 67, no. 4, pp. 927-938, 2020