Work - Volume Pre-press, issue Pre-press

Authors: Yavuz, Kübra | Koçak, Orhan | Kul Parlak, Nurgün

Article Type: Research Article

Abstract: BACKGROUND: During the COVID-19 pandemic, most workers were forced to work remotely, although having no prior experience, and as a result, they were exposed to new job-related stressors. OBJECTIVES: To examine the mediating role of job stress, work-family conflict and job satisfaction between fear of COVID-19 and job performance. METHOD: An online questionnaire was conducted a survey of remote workers in Turkey. Responses were obtained from 351 subjects. Related scales were used to measure work-life balance, job stress, job satisfaction, and employee performance as well as fear of COVID-19. Because all hypothesis constructs can be analyzed …simultaneously, structural equation modeling was used for data analysis. RESULTS: The results showed that fear of COVID-19 affects job stress (p  = .001; β = .264). There was a significant relationship between job stress and job satisfaction (p  = .001; β = .619). Also, work-family conflict was affected employee job stress (p  = .001; β = .516). Job stress had a mediator role fear of COVID-19 on job satisfaction and work-family conflict on job satisfaction. CONCLUSION: The findings of this study provide a useful measurement model that can be used to evaluate and improve job performance and job satisfaction through work stress and work-family conflict in times of crisis such as COVID-19. Show more

Keywords: COVID-19, job performance, job satisfaction, stress, work-family conflict

DOI: 10.3233/WOR-211360

Citation: Work, vol. Pre-press, no. Pre-press, pp. 1-14, 2022

Authors: Cevik, Celalettin | Ozdemir, Raziye | Ari, Sezgin

Article Type: Research Article

Abstract: BACKGROUND: Pesticide poisoning is a serious public health problem. OBJECTIVE: The aim was to investigate the effect of safe pesticide application training given to farmers on their behaviors towards compliance with protective measures. METHODS: In this interventional study, the target population was 9750 farmers living in Turkey. To achieve a study power of 95% , type I error and the effect size were assumed as 5% and 0.50 respectively. In the study, 61 farmers were selected using the systematic sampling method. Farmers were interviewed twice, before and after the training, and at each interview, they were …asked questions about their pesticide use-related behaviors in the last four sprayings. In the analysis, the paired t test, repeated measures of ANOVA (post hoc: Bonferroni) were used. RESULTS: The scores the participants obtained from the Pesticide Exposure Prevention Behavior Form which questions their compliance with protective measures taken during pesticide applications at the post-interview were significantly higher than were the scores they obtained at the pre-interview (P  <  0.001). The analysis of the independent variables demonstrated that the scores obtained from the Pesticide Exposure Prevention Behavior Form at the post-interview were significantly different from those obtained at the pre-interview in almost all of the subgroups in terms of their sociodemographic characteristics. CONCLUSION: It was observed that the training given to the farmers on the safe use of pesticides encouraged the farmers to develop positive behavioral changes. The study emphasizes the importance of implementing ongoing health education programs for farmers. Show more

Keywords: Pesticide, intervention, practice, farmer, health promotion

DOI: 10.3233/WOR-211380

Citation: Work, vol. Pre-press, no. Pre-press, pp. 1-11, 2022

Authors: Lombardo, Clara | Mento, Carmela | De Stefano, Rosa | Infortuna, Carmenrita | Iannuzzo, Fiammetta | Materia, Nicoletta | Muscatello, Maria R.A. | Bruno, Antonio

Article Type: Research Article

Abstract: BACKGROUND: Job satisfaction, as a multidimensional psychological response to work experience, includes both cognitive and affective components which influence individuals’ appraisals and state of minds. In recent years, researchers have begun to explore the psychological processes that might underlie the dispositional causes of job satisfaction. Affective temperaments can influence the experience of emotionally significant events at work and this, in turn, may influence job satisfaction OBJECTIVE: To investigate possible associations between affective temperamental features and job satisfaction in the health professions. METHODS: The sample consisted of 294 subjects selected among health professionals. Data were collected by …an online survey including the Professional Quality of Life (ProQOL) questionnaire and the short form of the Temperament Evaluation of Memphis, Pisa, Paris and San Diego (TEMPS-A) questionnaire. RESULTS: Hyperthymic, depressive, irritable and anxious temperaments predicted the risk of experiencing job dissatisfaction in healthcare professionals. No associations between Cyclothymic temperament and job satisfaction were found. CONCLUSION: The identification of affective temperamental assets and liabilities is potentially useful in the development of supportive and psycho-educational strategies, aimed at preventing work-related stress and promoting mental health in workplaces, also reducing the risk of job dissatisfaction. Show more

Keywords: Affective temperaments, job satisfaction, health professional, professional quality of life

DOI: 10.3233/WOR-220164

Citation: Work, vol. Pre-press, no. Pre-press, pp. 1-7, 2022

Authors: Li, Hui | Khattak, Shoukat Iqbal

Article Type: Research Article

Abstract: BACKGROUND: The domain of faculty internationalization is under-researched, especially in the context of China. Extant research does not lend itself to applied insight, despite offering theoretical and methodological precision. OBJECTIVE: Based on the motivational systems theory, this study developed a parsimonious measure of overall faculty motivation (including capacity beliefs, context beliefs, emotions, and goals) and investigated its effect on work performance through the mediating effect of faculty engagement in internationalization among faculty in a Chinese research-centric university. METHODS: Data of 229 faculty members were analyzed using a structural equation modeling approach. RESULTS: Faculty responses …indicated that: i) the second-order overall faculty motivation scale is superior to individual items in measuring the effect of overall faculty motivation on faculty engagement and work performance; ii) overall faculty motivation positively influences faculty engagement; iii) overall faculty motivation promotes work performance; iv) faculty engagement mediates the relationship between overall faculty motivation and work performance. CONCLUSION: Faculty responses indicated that the effect of the second-order overall faculty motivation construct is superior to individual items in terms of its effect sizes on faculty engagement and work performance. More so, the measurement model showed that overall faculty motivation exerts a direct and indirect (faculty engagement) positive effect on work performance. Chinese universities should align the goals, capacity belief, context belief, and emotions of faculty with national/institutional goals to yield superior engagement for better performance. Show more

Keywords: Goals, beliefs, emotions, work performance, faculty

DOI: 10.3233/WOR-211394

Citation: Work, vol. Pre-press, no. Pre-press, pp. 1-17, 2022

Authors: Talbott, Jennifer M.V. | Ghaith, Summer | Reed, Darcy A. | Sadosty, Annie T. | Sandefur, Benjamin J. | Hayes, Sharonne N. | Halyard, Michele Y. | Mi, Lanyu | Lim, Elisabeth S. | Lindor, Rachel A.

Article Type: Research Article

Abstract: BACKGROUND: Promotions in academic medicine are frequently based on number of publications and leadership positions held. While prior study has established women publish less than men, many evaluations are limited to individual specialties and do not evaluate involvement with educational activities. OBJECTIVE: To compare gender differences in academic output, intramural leadership positions, and educational leadership positions of academic physicians. METHODS: The curriculum vitae and de-identified demographic data of all permanent physicians employed at a multi-site academic medical center were reviewed from April to May 2020. Multivariable logistic and Poisson regressions evaluated leadership positions and number of …publications. RESULTS: Of 3,359 physicians in the demographic database, 32.3% (n  = 1,087) were women and 72.5% were white (n  = 2,510). Of the 3,015 physicians in the curriculum vitae database, 32% (n  = 962) were women. Women were more likely (p  < 0.001) to be assistant professor (54% vs. 42.7%) and less likely to be associate (18.1% vs. 20.3%) or full professor (14.6% vs. 29.1%). Women assistant professors published 22% fewer articles (ratio estimate = 0.78, p  < 0.001), associate professors 18% less (coefficient = 0.82, p  < 0.001), and full professors 23% less (coefficient = 0.77, p  < 0.001). Fewer women were program directors for residencies (1.6% vs. 2.9%, p  = 0.02) or fellowships (5.4% vs. 7.4%, p  = 0.04), and held fewer division or department leadership positions (OR 0.8, 95% CI as [0.6, 1.0], p  = 0.03). CONCLUSION: Women physicians do not outperform men across any education, leadership, or publication category. A cultural shift is needed to redefine traditional metrics for leadership appointments if academic medicine hopes to achieve equity. Show more

Keywords: Gender equity, sexism, women, publications, medicine

DOI: 10.3233/WOR-220193

Citation: Work, vol. Pre-press, no. Pre-press, pp. 1-9, 2022

Authors: Bulzacchelli, Maria T. | Bellantoni, Jenna M. | McCue-Weil, Leigh | Dzugan, Jerry

Article Type: Research Article

Abstract: BACKGROUND: Unique hazards make commercial fishing a hazardous occupation. Effective safety measures exist, but numerous barriers hinder their adoption. Two mobile apps aim to make performing crucial safety practices easier: the Small Craft Motion Program (SCraMP), which provides vessel stability information, and FVdrills, which provides checklists for running safety drills. OBJECTIVE: The purpose of this study was to obtain feedback from commercial fishing captains who tested SCraMP or FVdrills for its usefulness during typical fishing operations. METHODS: A convenience sample of commercial fishing captains with iOS devices tested either FVdrills or SCraMP. After one month, participants …provided feedback via online questionnaire. The main outcome variables were self-reported app use and perceived usefulness of the app. RESULTS: Thirty-two participants who were asked to try FVdrills (n  = 16) or SCraMP (n  = 16) completed follow-up questionnaires. Twelve participants in the FVdrills group (75.0%) reported using the app. Of these 12, eight (66.7%) rated FVdrills “Very” or “Extremely” useful, and 11 (91.7%) agreed that FVdrills is “easy to use.” Nine participants in the SCraMP group (56.3%) reported using the app. Of these nine, only one participant (11.1%) rated SCraMP “Very” or “Extremely” useful and only two (22.2%) agreed that SCraMP is “easy to use.” CONCLUSION: Commercial fishing captains who already own a smartphone or tablet may be willing to try a new mobile app addressing safety issues related to their work. App developers and safety professionals should conduct multiple rounds of formative evaluation, field-testing, and refinement to optimize ease of use and usefulness. Show more

Keywords: Occupational safety, mHealth, mobile technology, evaluation, field-test

DOI: 10.3233/WOR-211454

Citation: Work, vol. Pre-press, no. Pre-press, pp. 1-11, 2022

Authors: Jacquier-Bret, Julien | Gorce, Philippe | Rouvière, Emilie

Article Type: Research Article

Abstract: BACKGROUND: Musculoskeletal disorders are prevalent among physiotherapists. They perform many repetitive tasks in awkward postures that require a high muscle load. This issue was often addressed through subjective analysis (questionnaire) but rarely using postural evaluation combined with an ergonomic assessment. OBJECTIVE: The aim of this article was to decompose draining lymphatic massage performed by physiotherapists in generic postures (GP) to quickly assess the musculoskeletal disorder risk. METHODS: Based on numeric video recorded in frontal and sagittal planes, 3360 postures were defined from 20-minutes lymphatic drainage massage performed by 7 physiotherapists over a period of 6 months. …A hierarchical cluster analysis was applied to define the GP. RESULTS: Seven GP were identified, which were described by their average joint angles, variability and relative frequency. GP6, GP4 and GP2 had the highest frequencies (17.6%, 16.9% and 16.8% respectively). Trunk and neck were essentially flexed (neck: 17.0±10.0° for GP1; trunk: 20.4±8.7° for GP4). Shoulder flexion and abduction ranged from 15° (GP7) to 60° (GP4). Mean and variability of RULA score completed the analysis. The highest scores were computed for GP2 and GP3 (respectively 5.5±1.3 and 5.8±1.2, p  < 0.05). GP4 had the lowest (4.0±1.1, p  < 0.05). The results suggest that massages have to be monitored. Attention should be paid to the postures used to prevent the occurrence of MSDs. CONCLUSION: The massages could be described as a combination of generic posture for a rapid ergonomic assessment. Show more

Keywords: Physiotherapist, posture, massage, musculoskeletal disorders, RULA

DOI: 10.3233/WOR-220192

Citation: Work, vol. Pre-press, no. Pre-press, pp. 1-9, 2022

Authors: Tzenetidis, Nikolaos | Kourlaba, Georgia | Triantafyllou, Christos | Tzenetidis, Vasileios | Koulouvaris, Panagiotis | Myrianthefs, Pavlos

Article Type: Research Article

Abstract: BACKGROUND: It is well known that police officers (POs) are expected to be the first responders in emergency cases requiring First Aid (FA) such as cardiac arrest. OBJECTIVE: Description of practices and educational needs of Hellenic POs in providing FA/Cardiopulmonary Resuscitation (CPR) in case of medical emergencies and description of the equipment of professional FA kit. METHODS: An anonymous cross-sectional survey was conducted from January 1, 2016, to December 31, 2017, using a self-administered questionnaire designed to serve the purposes of this particular survey. The instrument consisted of 53 questions (multiple choice and open-ended questions) administered …in a convenience sample of 700 POs of the Attica prefecture. RESULTS: A sample of 520 POs (constables and lieutenants) completed the questionnaire (response rate = 74.28%). Among the participants, 248 (47.7 %) declared that they had provided FA/CPR in the past, while among those declaring that they had never provided FA/PCR (n  = 248), 153 (61.7%) said that they had experienced FA/CPR needs, but did not know what they had to do. Moreover, only 18.1% (94/520) of the POs answered that they have FA equipment in their professional equipment, which mainly includes bandages (54/94, 57.4%), while 29.7% of POs provided answers about their educational needs (313 in total) declared that they would like to be educated in bleeding control. CONCLUSION: There is a need to educate and train Greek POs in first aid and CPR in an organized and mandatory way in order to meet emergency needs. Show more

Keywords: First aid, Hellenic police force, educational needs, equipment, cardiopulmonary resuscitation

DOI: 10.3233/WOR-220150

Citation: Work, vol. Pre-press, no. Pre-press, pp. 1-8, 2022

Authors: Is, Enes Efe | Gudek, Kemal | Oral, Aydan | Sindel, Dilsad

Article Type: Research Article

Abstract: BACKGROUND: Upper extremity injuries may cause not only physical but also serious social and psychological problems in workers. OBJECTIVE: The aim of this study was to compare demographic and work-related features of persons with hand injuries who sustained a work-related or a non-work-related injury to gain insights into possible predisposing factors for work-related injuries as well as psychosocial consequences of hand injuries from the social work perspective. METHODS: This case-control study was conducted on 30 work-related and 30 non-work-related hand injury patients. The patients were evaluated using a questionnaire designed by the authors based on the …principles of social work involving demographics, work-related features, thought-emotion-behaviour features, family and friend relationships, need for family support and professional psychosocial support. Survey data from both groups were statistically analysed using descriptive statistics, Chi-square and Fisher Exact test. RESULTS: When compared with the non-work-related hand injury group, the majority of the subjects of the work-related hand injury group were blue-collar workers (p  = 0.003), had a lower level of education (p  < 0.001), worked off-the-clock (p  = 0.015), held the employer responsible for the accident (p  < 0.001), needed more time to return to work (p  = 0.014), were worried about the future (p  = 0.045), and expressed loss of joy (p  = 0.004). CONCLUSION: Hand injuries, regardless of their relation to work, lead to important psychosocial problems which need to be evaluated widely and carefully focusing on the patient and patient’s environment, work environment in this case. Show more

Keywords: Occupational accidents, occupational injuries, hand injuries, social work, rehabilitation

DOI: 10.3233/WOR-211146

Citation: Work, vol. Pre-press, no. Pre-press, pp. 1-9, 2022

Authors: Argus, Martin | Pääsuke, Mati

Article Type: Research Article

Abstract: BACKGROUND: Using a laptop for work is gaining rapid popularity, but there is little evidence of how it influences musculoskeletal disorders (MSDs) and functional characteristics of the neck and shoulder area. OBJECTIVE: This study aimed to compare the prevalence of upper body MSDs and functional characteristics of the neck between office workers using a laptop or desktop computer. METHODS: A total of 110 office workers with a mean age of 41±10 participated. 45 office workers (73% female) used a laptop and 65 office workers (86% female) desktop computers. The prevalence of MSDs was recorded using the …Nordic Musculoskeletal Questionnaire. Active range of motion (AROM), maximal voluntary isometric contraction (MVC) force, joint position error (JPE), and pain-pressure threshold (PPT) of the neck were measured. RESULTS: Laptop users experienced significantly more MSDs in the right shoulder area on the day of participation (p  <  0.001, OR = 4.47), during the previous 7 days (p  <  0.01, OR = 3.74), and at 6 months (p  <  0.01, OR = 3.57). Laptop users also experienced significantly more MSDs in the left shoulder during the previous 7 days (p  <  0.05, OR = 2.44). There were no statistically significant differences in any of the functional characteristics of the neck between the groups. CONCLUSION: Using the laptop computer for office work may pose a higher risk of developing MSDs in the right shoulder area, but might not have long-term effects on the functional characteristics of the neck. Show more

Keywords: Musculoskeletal pain, range of motion, muscle strength, proprioception, nociception

DOI: 10.3233/WOR-220080

Citation: Work, vol. Pre-press, no. Pre-press, pp. 1-11, 2023