Voice Disorder, Job Stress, and COVID-19 in Teachers: Impacts in Times of Pandemic

Introduction: The conditions of teachers' work during the COVID-19 pandemic affected teachers' lives regarding voice disorder and stress, even in emergency remote classroom situation. Objective: To analyze the relationship between the presence of voice disorder, job stress, and COVID-19 in teachers when in emergency remote classroom teaching situation at the time of the pandemic. Method: This is a primary, exploratory, observational cross-sectional study with the use of survey forwarded online during the period of emergency classes after the arrival of COVID-19 pandemic in Brazil. The teachers answered the sociodemographic questions about the presence of COVID-19 and the following instruments: Condition of Vocal Production-Teacher [Condição de Produção Vocal - Professor (CPV-P)], Screening Index for Voice Disorder (SIVD), and Job Stress Scale (JSS). Results: Of the 118 teachers analyzed, 94.1% were female; the average age was 44 years. The SIVD recorded the presence of voice disorder in 66.9% of the participants. Regarding the JSS, which are the findings related to stress at work in the demand domain, the teachers showed high levels, a fact which presupposes the existence of pressure of psychological nature to perform their work. Conclusion: The teachers self-reported the presence of voice disorder even in remote class situation, on the occasion of COVID-19, which were more common in older teachers. When comparing the presence of voice disorders, coronavirus symptoms, and stress domains in relation to demand, control, and social support, there was no significance. It is hoped that this study will help to reflect on the need to improve teachers' working conditions, strengthening work-related voice disorder actions and guiding actions for vocal care and well-being.

Introducción: Las condiciones de trabajo de los profesores durante la pandemia de COVID-19 afectaron sus vidas en lo que respecta al trastorno de la voz y el estrés, incluso en situaciones de emergencia en aulas remotas. Objetivo: Analizar la relación entre la presencia de trastorno de la voz, estrés laboral y COVID-19 en profesores cuando se encontraban en situación de emergencia de enseñanza en aulas remotas en la época de la pandemia. Método: Se trata de un estudio primario, exploratorio, observacional de tipo transversal, con el uso de encuesta remitida online durante el periodo de clases de emergencia tras la llegada de la pandemia de COVID-19 en Brasil. Los profesores respondieron a las preguntas sociodemográficas sobre la presencia de COVID-19 y a los siguientes instrumentos: Condición de Producción Vocal-Profesor (CPV-P), Índice de Detección de los Trastornos de la Voz (SIVD) y Escala de Estrés Laboral (JSS). Resultados: De los 118 profesores analizados, el 94,1% eran mujeres; la mediana de edad era de 44 años. El (SIVD) registró la presencia de trastorno de la voz en el 66,9% de los participantes. En cuanto a la JSS, que son los hallazgos relacionados con el estrés laboral en el dominio de la demanda, los profesores mostraron niveles elevados, hecho que presupone la existencia de presiones de naturaleza psicológica para realizar su trabajo. Conclusión: Los profesores autoinformaron de la presencia de trastornos de la voz incluso en situación de clase a distancia, con ocasión del COVID-19, que fueron más frecuentes en los profesores de más edad. Al comparar la presencia de trastornos de la voz, los síntomas del coronavirus y los dominios de estrés en relación con la demanda, el control y el apoyo social, no hubo resultados significativos. Se espera que este estudio ayude a reflexionar sobre la necesidad de mejorar las condiciones de trabajo de los docentes, fortaleciendo las acciones de Trastorno de la voz relacionado con el trabajo (WRVD) y orientando acciones para el cuidado y bienestar vocal.

Behind the Headset: Predictive Accuracy of Patient-Reported Outcome Measures for Voice Symptoms in Call Centers

Objective: This study examines factors predicting self-reported voice symptoms in call center workers. Methods: Multivariate analysis and predictive modeling assess personal, work-related, acoustic, and behavioral factors. Generalized Linear Models (GLMs) and Receiver Operating Characteristic (ROC) curves are employed. Results: Age and sleep patterns impacted voice quality and effort, while workplace factors influenced symptom perception. Unhealthy vocal behaviors related to tense voice and increased effort, while hydration was protective. Voice acoustics showed diagnostic potential, supported by ROC data. These findings emphasize voice symptom complexity in call center professionals, necessitating comprehensive assessment. Limitations: This study recognizes its limitations, including a moderate-sized convenience sample and reliance on PROM metrics. Future research should incorporate more objective measures in addition to self-reports and acoustic analysis. Value: This research provides novel insights into the interplay of personal, occupational, and voice-related factors in developing voice symptoms among call center workers. Predictive modeling enhances risk assessment and understanding of individual susceptibility to voice disorders. Conclusion: Results show associations between various factors and self-reported voice symptoms. Protective factors include sleeping more than six hours and consistent hydration, whereas risk factors include working conditions, such as location and behaviors like smoking. Diagnostic models indicate good accuracy for some voice symptom PROMs, emphasizing the need for comprehensive models considering work factors, vocal behaviors, and acoustic parameters to understand voice issues complexity.

Objetivo: Este estudio examina los factores que predicen los síntomas de voz en los trabajadores de call centers. Métodos: Se utilizan análisis multivariados y modelos predictivos para evaluar factores personales, laborales, acústicos y de comportamiento. Se emplean Modelos Lineales Generalizados (GLM) y curvas ROC. Resultados: La edad y los patrones de sueño afectaron la calidad vocal y el esfuerzo, mientras que los factores laborales influyeron en la percepción de síntomas. Los comportamientos vocales no saludables se relacionaron con voz tensa y mayor esfuerzo, mientras que la hidratación fue protectora. Los parámetros acústicos de voz mostraron potencial diagnóstico respaldado por datos de ROC. Los hallazgos subrayan complejidad de síntomas vocales en profesionales de centros de llamadas, requiriendo una evaluación integral. Limitaciones: Este estudio reconoce sus limitaciones, que incluyen una muestra de conveniencia de tamaño moderado y la dependencia de medidas PROMs. Futuras investigaciones deberían incorporar medidas objetivas, además de los autorreportes y análisis acústico. Importancia: Esta investigación aporta nuevos conocimientos sobre factores personales, laborales y síntomas de voz en trabajadores de call centers. El modelado predictivo mejora la evaluación de riesgos y la comprensión de la susceptibilidad individual a trastornos de la voz. Conclusión: Los resultados muestran asociaciones entre diversos factores y los síntomas vocales reportados. Los factores de protección incluyen dormir más de seis horas y una hidratación constante; los factores de riesgo incluyen las condiciones de trabajo, como la ubicación y comportamientos como fumar. Los modelos de diagnóstico indican una buena precisión para algunas PROMs de síntomas de la voz, lo que subraya la necesidad de modelos integrales que tengan en cuenta los factores laborales, los comportamientos vocales y los parámetros acústicos para comprender la complejidad de los problemas de la voz.

Vocal Load of University Professors: Preliminary Results

Purpose: To describe the acoustic characteristics of a classroom, voice quality, fatigue, and vocal load of university professors. Methods: Exploratory, observational, longitudinal, and descriptive study with a single group of participants, including vocal monitoring data over two weeks. Acoustic characterization of the classroom, perceptual-auditory evaluation, and acoustic analysis of voice samples were conducted before and after classes. Vocal dosimetry was performed during classes, and the Vocal Fatigue Index (VFI) was assessed at the beginning of each week. Descriptive analysis of the findings was conducted, and randomization test was performed to verify the internal reliability of the judge. Results: All participants reported speaking loudly in the classroom, with the majority reporting vocal changes in the past six months, and only one participant reported a current vocal change. The classroom had acoustical measures and estimations that deviated from established standards. The professors used high vocal intensities during classes. After the classes, an increase in the absolute values of the aggregated data for CAPE-V, jitter, and fundamental frequency was found, varying within the range of normality. Furthermore, there was an observed increase in both post-lesson intensity and VFI when comparing the two-week period. Conclusions: Vocal intensities and VFI were possibly impacted by the acoustics of the classroom. The increase in average VFI between the weeks may be attributed to a cumulative fatigue sensation. Further research with a larger number of participants and in acoustically conditioned classrooms is suggested in order to evaluate collective intervention proposals aimed at reducing the vocal load on teachers.

Objetivo: Describir las características acústicas, calidad vocal, fatiga y carga vocal de profesores universitarios. Métodos: Estudio exploratorio, observacional, longitudinal, descriptivo con un solo grupo de participantes y datos de monitoreo vocal durante dos semanas. Se realizó caracterización acústica de la sala, evaluación auditiva-perceptiva y acústica de muestras de voz antes y después de las clases. Se realizó dosimetría vocal durante las clases y se verificó el Índice de Fatiga Vocal (IFV) en dos semanas. Se realizó un análisis descriptivo de los hallazgos y una prueba de aleatorización para verificar la confiabilidad interna del juez. Resultados: Todos los participantes informaron hablar en voz alta en clase, la mayoría informó cambios vocales en los últimos seis meses y solo uno informó cambios vocales actuales. La sala presentó mediciones y estimaciones acústicas fuera de las normas establecidas. Los profesores utilizaron intensidades vocales altas durante las clases. Hubo un aumento en los valores absolutos de los datos agrupados para CAPE-V, jitter y frecuencia fundamental, variando dentro de los límites normales, después de las clases. La intensidad después de las clases y el IFV, en la comparación entre las dos semanas, mostraron un aumento. Conclusiones: La dosis vocal y el IFV posiblemente se vieron afectados por la acústica del aula. El aumento del IFV medio entre semanas pudo deberse a la sensación de cansancio acumulada. Se sugieren nuevas investigaciones con un mayor número de participantes y que se realicen en la sala acondicionada acústicamente para evaluar propuestas de intervención colectiva, con el objetivo de reducir la carga vocal de los docentes.

Influencia da Qualidade do Sono na Qualidade de Vida no Trabalho de Policais Militares / Influencia de la Calidad del Sueño en la Calidad de Vida en el Trabajo de la Policía Militar / Influence of Sleep Quality on the Quality of Life and Work of Military Police Officers

Resumo Introdução: A profissão policial é considerada de alto risco e exige um vigor físico e mental do trabalhador diante do serviço realizado. De tal modo que uma boa qualidade do sono é importante, pois impacta diretamente em diversos aspectos na saúde desses trabalhadores. Ademais, a falta de uma boa qualidade do sono devido ao trabalho pode influenciar negativamente a qualidade de vida no trabalho. Objetivo: Analisar a influência da qualidade do sono na qualidade de vida no trabalho de policiais militares. Metodologia: Estudo quantitativo, correlacionalde corte transversal, realizado no primeiro semestre de 2019, com policiais de três municípios da Bahia, Brasil. Foram utilizados três instrumentos: sociodemográfico e características laborais; qualidade de vida de vida no trabalho; e qualidade do sono. Foi aplicado o teste do qui quadrado para as variáveis sociodemograficas e ocupacionais. Posteriormente, foi aplicado o teste de correlação de Spearman entre a qualidade do sono com as dimensões da qualidade de vida no trabalho. Resultados: Evidenciou-se entre os 298 policiais que a mediana da idade foi de 40 anos e tempo de serviço ≤ 7 anos, observou-se também que os policiais com pior qualidade do sono apresentaram qualidade de vida no trabalho insatisfatória em todas as dimensões (biológica/fisiológica; psicológica/comportamental; sociológica/relacional; econômica/política, ambiental/organizacional). Conclusão: Os policiais sofrem com a qualidade do sono e consequentemente influencia negativamente a qualidade de vida no trabalho. Assim, há uma necessidade de desenvolver ações no ambiente de trabalho que possam diminuir os afastamentos decorrentes dos problemas de saúde ocasionados pela qualidade do sono.

Resumen Introdución: La formación policial se considera de alto riesgo y requiere vigor físico y mental por parte de la persona trabajadora antes de realizar el servicio. Para esto, la buena calidad de sueño es importante, ya que impacta directamente en la salud de la población trabajadora en varios aspectos. Además, la falta de una buena calidad de sueño debido al trabajo puede influir negativamente en la calidad de vida fuera del trabajo. Objetivo: Analizar la influencia de la calidad del sueño en la calidad de vida en el trabajo de policías militares. Metodología: Estudio cuantitativo, correlacional transversal, realizado en el primer semestre de 2019, con policías de tres municipios de Bahía, Brasil. Se utilizaron tres instrumentos: características sociodemográficas y laborales, calidad de vida en el trabajo y calidad de sueño. Se aplicó la prueba chi cuadrado para las variables sociodemográficas y ocupacionales. Posteriormente, se aplicó la prueba de correlación de Spearman entre la calidad del sueño y las dimensiones de calidad de vida en el trabajo. Resultados: La muestra fue de 298 policías, la mediana de edad fue de 40 años y la antigüedad en el servicio fue ≤ 7 años. También, se observó quienes tuvieron peor calidad de sueño, también tuvieron una calidad de vida en el trabajo insatisfactoria en todos sus dimensiones (biológica/fisiológica; psicológica/conductual; sociológica/relacional; económica/política, ambiental/organizacional). Conclusión: Quienes son agentes de policía sufren de mala calidad de sueño y, en consecuencia, se influye negativamente su calidad de vida en el trabajo. Por lo tanto, existe la necesidad de desarrollar acciones en el lugar de trabajo que pueda reducir los riesgos de problemas de salud causados por la calidad del sueño.

Abstract Background: Police training is considered high risk and demands physical and mental vigor from the worker before preforming the service. Therefore, sleep quality is important as it directly impacts the health of these workers in several aspects. Furthermore, the lack of sleep quality due to work can negatively influence the quality of life outside of work. Aim: To analyze the influence of sleep quality on the quality of life and work of military police officers. Methods: A quantitative, cross-sectional correlational study, conducted in the first half of 2019 with police officers from three municipalities in Bahia, Brazil. Three instruments were used: sociodemographic and work characteristics; quality of life at work; and sleep quality. The chi-square test was applied for sociodemographic and occupational variations. Subsequently, the Spearman correlation test was applied between sleep quality and the quality of life and work dimensions. Results: Among the 298 police officers the median age was 40 years and the length of service was ≤ 7 years. It was also observed that police officers with poorer sleep quality had an unsatisfactory quality of life at work in all its dimensions (biological/physiological; psychological/behavioral; sociological/relational; economic/political, environmental/organizational). Conclusion: Police officers suffer from poor sleep quality and this negatively influence their quality of life and work. Therefore, there is a need to develop actions in the workplace that may reduce the risks of health problems caused by poor sleep quality.

Videoconference-Supervised Group Exercise Reduces Low Back Pain in Eldercare Workers: Results from the ReViEEW Randomised Controlled Trial.

PURPOSE: To assess the effects of a group exercise intervention conducted by real-time videoconference on the low back pain of eldercare workers. METHODS: We randomly assigned 130 eldercare workers to an experimental group (EG: n = 65) or control group (CG: n = 65). Participants from both groups took part in routine prevention programs carried out in their workplace, and participants from the EG received an additional 12-week resistance-exercise intervention supervised by real-time videoconference. Assessments were conducted before and after the intervention, and the primary outcome was average low back pain intensity during the last 7 days, measured by the 0-10 numerical rating scale. Secondary outcomes included additional measures of low back, neck, shoulder and hand/wrist pain, as well as psycho-affective parameters, medication consumption and muscle performance. Both intention-to-treat and per-protocol analyses were applied with a group-by-time ANCOVA including baseline measurements as covariates. RESULTS: 125 participants completed post-intervention assessments (EG: n = 63, CG: n = 62). The intention-to-treat analysis showed an effect favouring the EG on average low back pain intensity (p = 0.034). Improvements in additional low back and hand/wrist pain outcomes were also observed, as well as on upper limb muscle performance (p < 0.05). The per-protocol analysis demonstrated additional benefits in depression, quality of life, hypnotic/anxiolytic medication consumption and lower limb and trunk muscle performance in participants with ≥ 50% adherence (p < 0.05). CONCLUSIONS: The intervention was effective for reducing the low back and hand/wrist pain of eldercare workers and increasing upper limb muscle performance. The per-protocol analysis showed additional benefits in psycho-affective parameters, medication consumption and muscle performance. TRIAL REGISTRATION: ClinicalTrials.gov, NCT05050526. Registered 20 September 2021-Prospectively registered, https://www. CLINICALTRIALS: gov/study/NCT05050526.

Levels of work stress among information technology professionals during COVID-19 pandemic in an Indian metropolis.

Introduction: Amid the ongoing Non-Communicable Disease and COVID-19 pandemic, understanding prevalence and characteristics associated with work stress is vital from a health and economic perspective, more so among information technology (IT) professionals. Objective: To estimate the prevalence and factors associated with work stress among IT professionals during the coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic in Bengaluru, India. Materials and Methods: A cross-sectional study was undertaken on a convenient sample of 356 IT professionals in Bengaluru, India, between September 2020 and March 2021 to assess work stress. The weblink to TAWS-16 (Tool to Assess and classify Work Stress) was provided for IT employees to self-report their experience of work-related stressors and coping abilities in the past 6 months. The prevalence and specific prevalence of work stress were calculated. Multi-variate logistic regression was conducted to identify factors associated with work stress. Ethical clearance was obtained from the Institutional Ethics committee, National Institute of Mental Health and Neurosciences, Bengaluru. Informed consent was obtained from study subjects. Results and Conclusion: The prevalence of work stress among IT professionals was 17.7% during the COVID19 pandemic, with higher rates among employees aged 31 years and above, among female employees, and among employees with 4-7 years of work experience. More than 80% of the professionals experienced deadline pressures, long working hours, regular multi-tasking, and difficulty in maintaining work-life balance. Based on the results, it is recommended to integrate work-stress assessment in periodical medical examination of IT employees from a health promotion and productivity improvement perspective.

Care for Staff: A Novel Technical Assistance Approach to Promote Occupational Mental Health Among Healthcare Workers in Lower and Middle Income Country Settings.

BACKGROUND: Healthcare workers (HCWs) in lower- and middle-income countries (LMICs) face unique, intersectional threats to their mental health at work. Despite the existence of recommendations for multi-tiered interventions to promote and protect occupational mental health for HCWs, there remain significant challenges to implementation worldwide. METHODS: FHI 360, a global development organization, developed a novel technical assistance framework to accompany partners, including government and healthcare leaders to design, implement, improve, or evaluate any mental health and psychosocial support intervention. The EpiC Project, implemented by FHI 360, has utilized this framework in four countries (Vietnam, Philippines, Paraguay and Sri Lanka) specifically to guide the development of locally adapted occupational mental health interventions for HCWs. FINDINGS: Each country applied this framework in various project cycle phases and in their unique local contexts; all countries reported positive developments in the advancement of their chosen interventions. CONCLUSIONS/APPLICATION TO PRACTICE: With the application of an adaptable, evidence-based technical assistance framework to guide collaborative consultation for project design, implementation, improvement, and/or evaluation, locally led teams pivoted from a solely "mental health" approach to more comprehensive, evidence-based interventions that framed mental health for HCWs as an occupational health priority. This allowed for teams advising interventions in LMICs to consider unique workplace, structural and policy-level factors rather than focusing solely on individual mental health strategies.

In their own words: a qualitative survey of healthcare providers' experiences with personal protective equipment during the COVID-19 pandemic.

BACKGROUND: At the beginning of the coronavirus disease (COVID-19) pandemic, healthcare personnel (HCP) faced a dire shortage of personal protective equipment (PPE). This shortage has been identified as a major source of distress among HCP during the early COVID-19 pandemic, though the specific consequences of this shortage have not been identified in the qualitative literature. METHODS: We sought to fill this gap by conducting a qualitative analysis of PPE related free-text comments from online surveys completed by 923 HCP during Spring 2020. RESULTS: We found that HCP used words such as "required" and "had" to describe how their use of non-standard PPE was imposed on them by their workplace, suggesting that they felt little control over their protection at work. HCP described cleaning PPE with novel methods, such as bleach, alcohol, hydrogen peroxide, and UV light, in addition to creating their own PPE out of materials such as garbage bags, sheets, and cloth. Furthermore, HCP expressed frustration with PPE policies at their workplaces, which continued throughout the early pandemic due to the rapidly changing guidelines and the inability to express their opinions to their institutions. The combination of these concerns left HCP scared of being infected with COVID-19 while at work and subsequently infecting their loved ones at home. CONCLUSION: It is critical that healthcare institutions understand HCP's experiences with and feelings towards PPE, as providing the proper protection is vital in ensuring an adequate HCP workforce.

Effects of a Problem-Based Learning Education Program for Occupational Health Nursing Using Smart Learning on Occupational Health Knowledge and Nursing Professionalism.

This study aimed to develop a problem-based learning program for occupational health nursing using smart learning, and to report the program's effects on occupational health knowledge and nursing professionalism. A quasi-experimental study was performed using a non-equivalent control group pre-test-post-test design. An occupational health nursing problem-based learning program using smart learning was developed, and students produced videos containing problem-solving strategies in groups. The experimental and control groups consisted of 34 and 29 participants, respectively. To collect data, an online survey was conducted before and immediately after the intervention. The experimental and control group's mean scores for occupational health knowledge before the intervention were 5.74 and 7.41, respectively. Additionally, the mean scores for nursing professionalism were 3.45 and 3.66. After the intervention, both the knowledge on occupational health and nursing professionalism score improved to 8.26 and 3.64 in the experimental group. This study reported significant improvements after conducting the occupational health nursing education program. These results demonstrate the need to develop a nursing education program for problem-based learning utilizing smart learning. Moreover, filming videos in cooperation with students can improve the effectiveness of education by improving knowledge.

Wastewater Surveillance of US Coast Guard Installations and Seagoing Military Vessels to Mitigate the Risk of COVID-19 Outbreaks, March 2021-August 2022.

OBJECTIVES: Military training centers and seagoing vessels are often environments at high risk for the spread of COVID-19 and other contagious diseases, because military trainees and personnel arrive after traveling from many parts of the country and live in congregate settings. We examined whether levels of SARS-CoV-2 genetic material in wastewater correlated with SARS-CoV-2 infections among military personnel living in communal barracks and vessels at US Coast Guard training centers in the United States. METHODS: The Coast Guard developed and established 3 laboratories with wastewater testing capability at Coast Guard training centers from March 2021 through August 2022. We analyzed wastewater from barracks housing trainees and from 4 Coast Guard vessels for the presence of SARS-CoV-2 genes N and E and quantified the results relative to levels of a fecal indicator virus, pepper mild mottle virus. We compared quantified data with the timing of medically diagnosed COVID-19 infection among (1) military personnel who had presented with symptoms or had been discovered through contact tracing and had medical tests and (2) military personnel who had been discovered through routine surveillance by positive SARS-CoV-2 antigen or polymerase chain reaction test results. RESULTS: Levels of viral genes in wastewater at Coast Guard locations were best correlated with diagnosed COVID-19 cases when wastewater testing was performed twice weekly with passive samplers deployed for the entire week; such testing detected ≥1 COVID-19 case 69.8% of the time and ≥3 cases 88.3% of the time. Wastewater assessment in vessels did not continue because of logistical constraints. CONCLUSION: Wastewater testing is an effective tool for measuring the presence and patterns of SARS-CoV-2 infections among military populations. Success with wastewater testing for SARS-CoV-2 infections suggests that other diseases may be assessed with similar approaches.

Study protocol and rationale of "the UP project": evaluating the effectiveness of active breaks on health indicators in desk-based workers.

Background: Excessive sedentary time has been negatively associated with several health outcomes, and physical activity alone does not seem to fully counteract these consequences. This panorama emphasizes the essential of sedentary time interruption programs. "The Up Project" seeks to assess the effectiveness of two interventions, one incorporating active breaks led by a professional and the other utilizing a computer application (self-led), of both equivalent duration and intensity. These interventions will be compared with a control group to evaluate their impact on physical activity levels, sedentary time, stress perception, occupational pain, and cardiometabolic risk factors among office workers. Methods: This quasi-experimental study includes 60 desk-based workers from universities and educational institutes in Valparaiso, Chile, assigned to three groups: (a) booster breaks led by professionals, (b) computer prompts that are unled, and (c) a control group. The intervention protocol for both experimental groups will last 12 weeks (only weekdays). The following measurements will be performed at baseline and post-intervention: cardiometabolic risk based on body composition (fat mass, fat-free mass, and bone mass evaluated by DXA), waist circumference, blood pressure, resting heart rate, and handgrip strength. Physical activity and sedentary time will be self-reported and device-based assessed using accelerometry. Questionnaires will be used to determine the perception of stress and occupational pain. Discussion: Governments worldwide are addressing health issues associated with sedentary behavior, particularly concerning individuals highly exposed to it, such as desk-based workers. Despite implementing certain strategies, there remains a noticeable gap in comprehensive research comparing diverse protocols. For instance, studies that contrast the outcomes of interventions led by professionals with those prompted by computers are scarce. This ongoing project is expected to contribute to evidence-based interventions targeting reduced perceived stress levels and enhancing desk-based employees' mental and physical well-being. The implications of these findings could have the capacity to lay the groundwork for future public health initiatives and government-funded programs.

Health risk assessment and prevalence of work-related musculoskeletal disorders among the aged brick molders, in India.

The Brickfield Industry is the major and oldest informal industry in India, where millions of brickfield workers make their livelihood. Aged brickfield workers are also involved in different activities in the brickfield, especially in brick mold activities owing to poor socioeconomic conditions. A cross-sectional study was designed to determine the prevalence of work-related musculoskeletal disorders among the aged brick molders and compare them with aged control subjects. A Nordic Questionnaire was applied to assess the discomfort felt among both groups of workers and the Rapid Upper Limb Assessment (RULA) method was used to evaluate posture during their job. The RULA posture analysis showed that the posture adopted by aged brick molders required changes immediately. The result of the ART tool also stated that the brick molding activities' exposure level was high and required further investigation urgently. The study concluded that due to working in a forward bending posture for a prolonged period, aged brickmolders suffered from severe low back and knee pain along with upper-limb disorders due to repetitive activities.

Association between musculoskeletal pain and exposures to awkward postures during work: a compositional analysis approach.

OBJECTIVES: This study aimed to explore the association between arm elevation and neck/shoulder pain, and trunk forwarding bending and low back pain among home care workers. METHODS: Home care workers (N = 116) from 11 home care units in Trondheim, Norway, filled in pain assessment and working hours questionnaire, and wore 3 accelerometers for up to 7 consecutive days. Work time was partitioned into upright awkward posture, nonawkward posture, and nonupright time, i.e. sitting. Within a compositional approach framework, posture time compositions were expressed in terms of log-ratio coordinates for statistical analysis and modeling. Poisson generalized linear mixed models were used to analyze the relationship between arm elevation in upright postures and neck/shoulder pain, and between trunk forward bending in upright postures and low back pain, respectively. Isotemporal substitution analysis was used to investigate the association of pain assessment with the reallocation of time spent in the different postures. RESULTS: Time spent in awkward postures was modest, especially for the more extreme angles (60° and 90°). Adjusting for age, gender, and body mass index, our study suggested that the compositions of time spent by home care workers in awkward postures were significantly associated with pain assessment (P < 0.01). Isotemporal substitution analysis showed that reallocating 5 min from upright posture with arms elevated below to above 60° and 90° was associated with a 6.8% and 19.9% increase in the neck/shoulder pain score, respectively. Reallocating 5 min from a forward bending posture while upright below to above 30°, 60°, and 90° was associated with 1.8%, 3.5%, and 4.0% increase in low back pain, respectively. CONCLUSIONS: Although the exposure to awkward postures was modest, our results showed an association between increased time spent in awkward postures and an increase in neck/shoulder pain and low back pain in home care workers. As musculoskeletal pain is the leading cause of sickness absence, these findings suggest that home care units could benefit from re-organizing work to avoid excessive arm elevation and trunk forward bending in workers.

Managing acoustic noise within MRI: A qualitative interview study among Swedish radiographers.

INTRODUCTION: Acoustic noise from magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) can cause hearing loss and needs to be mitigated to ensure the safety of patients and personnel. Capturing MR personnel's insights is crucial for guiding the development and future applications of noise-reduction technology. This study aimed to explore how MR radiographers manage acoustic noise in clinical MR settings. METHODS: Using a qualitative design, we conducted semi-structured individual interviews with fifteen MR radiographers from fifteen hospitals around Sweden. We focused on the clinical implications of participants' noise management, using an interpretive description approach. We also identified sociotechnical interactions between People, Environment, Tools, and Tasks (PETT) by adopting a Human Factors/Ergonomics framework. Interview data were analyzed inductively with thematic analysis (Braun and Clarke). RESULTS: The analysis generated three main themes regarding MR radiographers' noise management: (I) Navigating Occupational Noise: Risk Management and Adaptation; (II) Protecting the Patient and Serving the Exam, and (III) Establishing a Safe Healthcare Environment with Organizational Support. CONCLUSION: This study offers insights into radiographers' experiences of managing acoustic noise within MRI, and the associated challenges. Radiographers have adopted multiple strategies to protect patients and themselves from adverse noise-related effects. However, they require tools and support to manage this effectively, suggesting a need for organizations to adopt more proactive, holistic approaches to safety initiatives. IMPLICATIONS FOR PRACTICE: The radiographers stressed the importance of a soundproofed work environment to minimize occupational adverse health effects and preserve work performance. They acknowledge noise as a common contributor to patient distress and discomfort. Providing options like earplugs, headphones, mold putty, software-optimized "quiet" sequences, and patient information were important tools. Fostering a safety culture requires proactive safety efforts and support from colleagues and management.

Occupational orthopedic problems and its relation to personal radiation protection in interventional radiology.

PURPOSE: Several studies report occupational orthopedic problems among interventional cardiologists. These health problems are usually multifactorial. However, the personal protective equipment used should play a major role. An online survey was conducted to determine the frequency of such health problems among interventional radiologists and to correlate them with the use of personal radiation protective clothing. MATERIAL AND METHODS: An anonymous online survey that comprised of 17 questions was sent via e-mail to 1427 members of the German Society for Interventional Radiology (DeGIR) in Germany, Austria and Switzerland. The questions were focused on interventional workload, the use of personal radiation protection apparel and orthopedic problems. Given the different scale levels, the associations between the variables were analyzed using different statistical methods. A significance level of p < 0.05 was chosen. RESULTS: There were 221 survey responders (15.5% response rate). About half of responders (47.7%) suffered from more than five episodes of orthopedic problems during their interventional career. Lumbar spine was involved in 81.7% of these cases, cervical spine in 32.8%, shoulder in 28.5% and knee in 24.7%. Because of orthopedic problems, 16.1% of the responders had to reduce and 2.7% had to stop their interventional practice. The number of affected body regions correlates with the fit of the radiation protection means (p < 0.05, r = 0.135) and the reduction of activity as an interventional radiologist (p < 0.05, r = -0.148). CONCLUSION: Overall, the survey reveals widespread orthopedic problems at several body regions among interventional radiologists, associated with the fit of radiation protection systems, among other factors. A connection between the orthopaedic complaints and the radiation protection system used could not be established.

Relationship between trauma, psychological distress and help-seeking among corrective service workers.

BACKGROUND: Corrective service workers (CSWs) are at high risk of post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) and other mental health problems. Prevalence rates and help-seeking behaviours are under-researched within this population. AIMS: To assess rates of PTSD and distress, and identify predictors of intention to seek help, among workers at an Australian corrective service agency. METHODS: A cross-sectional online survey was used to collect data on staff demographics, employment, PTSD symptoms and current distress. Participants received a tailored feedback report including referral to relevant mental health services (where applicable) and were asked to indicate their likelihood of seeking help. Prevalence data are reported. Binary logistic regression was used to examine relationships between participant characteristics and help-seeking for those with probable PTSD and/or high psychological distress. RESULTS: Participants (n=1001) were predominantly men (56.8%) with a mean age of 46.72 (SD=11.00). Over half (58.0%) were classified as probable PTSD cases, and one-third (33.0%) were experiencing high psychological distress. Around a third (34.3%) of participants with probable PTSD and/or elevated distress indicated they were likely to seek help. Older age and fewer years of service were associated with increased help-seeking intentions. CONCLUSIONS: CSWs were found to be experiencing probable PTSD at higher rates than reported in previous studies. Relatively few intended to seek help from mental health services, despite being provided with personalised screening and feedback along with access to specialised care. Future research should investigate the potential role of organisational support as a facilitator of help-seeking within this population.

The transcriptomic signature of respiratory sensitizers using an alveolar model.

Environmental contaminants are ubiquitous in the air we breathe and can potentially cause adverse immunological outcomes such as respiratory sensitization, a type of immune-driven allergic response in the lungs. Wood dust, latex, pet dander, oils, fragrances, paints, and glues have all been implicated as possible respiratory sensitizers. With the increased incidence of exposure to chemical mixtures and the rapid production of novel materials, it is paramount that testing regimes accounting for sensitization are incorporated into development cycles. However, no validated assay exists that is universally accepted to measure a substance's respiratory sensitizing potential. The lungs comprise various cell types and regions where sensitization can occur, with the gas-exchange interface being especially important due to implications for overall lung function. As such, an assay that can mimic the alveolar compartment and assess sensitization would be an important advance for inhalation toxicology. Some such models are under development, but in-depth transcriptomic analyses have yet to be reported. Understanding the transcriptome after sensitizer exposure would greatly advance hazard assessment and sustainability. We tested two known sensitizers (i.e., isophorone diisocyanate and ethylenediamine) and two known non-sensitizers (i.e., chlorobenzene and dimethylformamide). RNA sequencing was performed in our in vitro alveolar model, consisting of a 3D co-culture of epithelial, macrophage, and dendritic cells. Sensitizers were readily distinguishable from non-sensitizers by principal component analysis. However, few differentially regulated genes were common across all pair-wise comparisons (i.e., upregulation of genes SOX9, UACA, CCDC88A, FOSL1, KIF20B). While the model utilized in this study can differentiate the sensitizers from the non-sensitizers tested, further studies will be required to robustly identify critical pathways inducing respiratory sensitization.

[Men working through mobile applications in Brazil: Reflections from occupational health]. / Hombres que trabajan a través de aplicaciones móviles en Brasil: reflexiones desde la salud ocupacional.

Work through mobile applications emerged as an alternative for many Brazilian men during the economic crisis and rising unemployment. However, these workers operate informally, without a formal employment relationship, leading to labor precariousness and a lack of workers' rights. Using a theoretical-reflexive, this study analyzes the intersection between occupational health, the platformization of work, and the specific challenges faced by male delivery app workers, especially during the COVID-19 pandemic. Reflective categories are divided into two thematic sections: "Labor insertion through mobile applications in Brazil and the algorithmic work model" and "men, health, and motorcycles: occupational health and male behavior in app-based delivery work." The study examines the expansion of this type of work in the Brazilian socio-economic context, the lack of security and labor protection for these workers, as well as the risks faced, particularly during the pandemic, within a male-centric culture.

El trabajo a través de aplicaciones móviles surgió como una alternativa para muchos hombres brasileños durante la crisis económica y el aumento del desempleo. Sin embargo, estos trabajadores operan de manera informal, sin relación laboral, lo que genera precariedad laboral y falta de derechos laborales. Desde un abordaje teórico-reflexivo, este artículo analiza la intersección entre la salud ocupacional, la plataformización del trabajo y los desafíos específicos que enfrentan los hombres repartidores de aplicaciones, especialmente durante la pandemia de covid-19. Las categorías reflexivas se dividieron en dos secciones temáticas: "La inserción laboral a través de aplicaciones móviles en Brasil y el modelo de trabajo mediante algoritmos" y "hombres, salud y motocicletas: la salud ocupacional y el comportamiento masculino en el trabajo a través de aplicaciones de entrega". Se examina la expansión de este tipo de trabajo en el contexto socioeconómico brasileño, la falta de seguridad y protección laboral para estos trabajadores, así como los riesgos enfrentados, especialmente durante la pandemia, en el marco de una cultura masculina.

Association Between Acute Kidney Injury Hospital Visits and Environmental Heat Stress at a Nicaraguan Sugarcane Plantation.

BACKGROUND: Mesoamerican sugarcane cutters are at a high risk of chronic kidney disease of non-traditional origin, a disease likely linked to heat-related acute kidney injury (AKI). Studies in general populations have described a positive association between high environmental temperatures and clinically assessed kidney outcomes, but there are no studies in occupational settings. METHOD: We accessed routine records of clinically diagnosed AKI (AKI-CD) and wet bulb globe temperatures (WBGT) at a large Nicaraguan sugarcane plantation and modeled the relationship between these using negative binomial regression. A rest-shade-hydration intervention was gradually enhanced during the study period, and efforts were made to increase the referral of workers with suspected AKI to healthcare. RESULTS: Each 1°C WBGT was associated with an 18% (95% confidence interval [CI]: [4, 33%]) higher AKI-CD rate on the same day and a 14% (95% CI [-5, 37%]) higher rate over a week. AKI-CD rates and severity, and time between symptoms onset and diagnosis decreased during the study period, that is, with increasing rest-shade-hydration intervention. Symptoms and biochemical signs of systemic inflammation were common among AKI-CD cases. DISCUSSION: Occupational heat stress, resulting from heavy work in environmental heat, was associated with a higher rate of clinically diagnosed AKI in a population at risk of CKDnt. Promoting rest-shade-hydration may have contributed to reducing AKI rates during the study period. Occupational health and safety personnel have key roles to play in enforcing rest, shade, and hydration practices, referring workers with suspected AKI to healthcare as well as collecting and analyzing the data needed to support workplace heat stress interventions.