Medical Surveillance Research Articles

Dampak Kesehatan Mental dan Atmosfer kerja Terhadap Motivasi Kerja Karyawan

Isnawati The Impact of Mental Health and Work Atmosphere on Employee Work Motivation (Case Study on Private Employees in Surabaya City), Institut of Economic Science Pemuda Surabaya, Mentor Nur Farida, S.M., M.M. The purpose of this research is to determine how the working environment and mental health of private employees in the Surabaya City area affect their motivation for their jobs. 150 private workers from a range of industrial sectors made up the research sample. A Likert scale questionnaire survey is employed as the data collection method to gauge factors related to job motivation, workplace culture, and mental wellness. The findings of data analysis using SPSS indicate that private employees' motivation at work is significantly positively impacted by their mental health and the environment in which they operate. The results of the partial t-test indicate that job motivation is significantly impacted to some extent by mental health and the work environment. Simultaneous F tests verify that work motivation is significantly impacted by both mental health and the workplace environment.

Working conditions, health status, and musculoskeletal disorders among hospital cleaning workers: a cross-sectional study in Turkey.

Cleaning workers face many workplace risk factors and may experience many health problems. In this context, this study aimed to evaluate the musculoskeletal disorders, the health status of hospital cleaning workers, and the working conditions and risk factors affecting the workplace environment. This cross-sectional study was conducted in a university hospital of Turkey. All the cleaning workers who have been working for ≥1 year were participants. The participants' socio-demographic and occupational characteristics, health complaints, workplace risk factors, occupational accidents, and ergonomic nonconformities were observed and questioned. Four hundred thirty-eight cleaning employees participated in the study. In the past year, 19.6% of participants had an occupational accident. Of those, 24.4% did not report it, and 30.2% were absent from work. No pre-employment examination was reported by 36.8% of the participants, and periodic medical examinations were never undergone by 98.4%. Low back pain was experienced by 42.0% of the participants, while 29.5% reported shoulder pain and 28.8% knee pain. While working, 83.1% of the participants bent frequently, 82.2% repeated the same movement, and 73.2% stood for a long time. Chemical substances were the most common workplace risk factors. There were significant differences according to age and gender in almost all musculoskeletal disorders. Gender differences were observed also in various health outcomes and occupational complaints. Repeated bending and prolonged standing were associated with hip/leg and foot/ankle pains; heavy lifting with low back, back, wrist/hand, and ankle/foot pains; and failure to the breaks with shoulder, knee and hip/leg pains. This research investigated the health issues and occupational safety challenges faced by hospital cleaning personnel. Specifically, it examined musculoskeletal disorders and work-related accidents, emphasizing gaps in regular health screenings for these workers. The findings underscore gender variations in these challenges and propose strategies to mitigate ergonomic risks encountered by cleaning staff. Med Pr Work Health Saf. 2024;75(5).

Predictive Analytics for Mental Health: Machine Learning Approaches in the Tech Industry

Mental health concerns in the technology sector have become increasingly prominent, drawing attention due to the industry's high-pressure environment and intense workloads. This study investigates the application of machine learning techniques to predict mental health conditions among technology industry professionals. The research utilizes a comprehensive dataset, analyzing factors such as work-life balance, job satisfaction, workplace environment, and individual well-being. The study implements and evaluates several Machine Learning approaches, including Logistic Regression, Random Forest, Decision Tree Classifier, KNN, Gradient Boosting Classifier, XGB Classifier, to determine the most effective method for predicting mental health outcomes. The results highlight the potential of predictive analytics in early identification, enabling organizations to implement proactive strategies to enhance mental wellness and improve employee productivity. Additionally, this investigation emphasizes the necessity of incorporating mental health support mechanisms in technology-driven workplaces to foster a more positive work environment. The paper concludes with a discussion of the study's limitations and potential avenues for improving mental health prediction models in the future.

Digital Twin-Driven Virtual Network Architecture for Enhanced Extended Reality Capabilities

Extended Reality (XR) technology is proposed as a key enabler for the development of immersive applications, thus transforming the way users interact within digital environments. In communication networks, XR will be able to introduce immersive network functions with the potential to enhance the network experience. This paper proposes a comprehensive architectural framework designed to support the deployment of XR Functions (XRFs) within a Digital Twin Network (DTN) environment in order to provide immersive functions of any type, including control and management functions, that are not available in the original network. The proposal can be deployed in relevant fields where digital twins are promising, such as medical applications, surveillance systems, autonomous driving and space communications. The proposed architecture must consider the need for minimal hardware and software resources, along with a network topological configuration with the objective of providing a robust yet lightweight framework, allowing devices with limited computing power, such as smartphones and laptops, to benefit from the enhanced network functionalities provided in the Digital Twin Network, without affecting the original network (ON).

Nudges in Workplace Environments – A Systematic Review and Research Agenda

Nudges in Workplace Environments – A Systematic Review and Research Agenda

Mental health trajectories across COVID-19 and beyond: South African occupational health surveillance data (2019–2023)

There are inconsistent reports on the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic and its associated social restrictions on mental health, with initial suggestions of an increased prevalence of mental disorders in South Africa. However, the longitudinal trajectories of mental health responses across the COVID-19 pandemic are not clear. The primary aim of this study was to describe the trajectories of self-reported common mental disorders, as determined by repeat administration of clinical screening tools across five consecutive years (from 2019 to 2023). A secondary aim was to consider associations with demographic factors such as gender and age. Point prevalence estimates were obtained from a South African occupational mental health surveillance programme in a stable workplace population. Trajectories of common mental disorders across COVID-19 were determined using the Patient Health Questionnaire-9 and Generalised Anxiety Disorder-7 to identify Major Depressive Disorder and Generalised Anxiety Disorder, respectively. Prevalence estimates for depression and anxiety disorders initially remained stable before increasing towards mid-2021 and returning to pre-COVID-19 estimates by end-2022. Suicidal ideation decreased early into the pandemic but returned to pre-COVID-19 levels by 2021. The study suggests that on a practical level, readily available access to mental health care remains an important mechanism to protect mental health during and after major societal disruptor events. This can further be supported through regular monitoring and through providing high-intensity early intervention for at least 18 to 24 months following such events.

Assessment of occupational exposure to micro/nano particles generated from carbon fiber-reinforced plastic processing.

Carbon fiber-reinforced plastics (CFRP) are leading functional materials with superior strength and low mass density compared to metal. Our previous factory site analyses found that CFRP processing generates fibrous debris and fine micro/nano-sized particles of various shapes. The present interventional study was conducted at a factory located in Japan and evaluated debris consisting of various-sized particles generated during the industrial processing of CFRP, such as cutting, grinding, and turning of CFRP pipes, using real-time particle monitoring devices of the following: PM4 Digital Dust Monitor (DDM), handled Optical Particle Counter (OPC), Condensation Particle Counter (CPC), and Scanning Mobility Particle Sizer (SMPS). In addition, personal exposure of workers was evaluated using a novel wearable PM2.5-compatible device (P-sensor). First, we confirmed the presence of micro/nano particles in the dust generated during industrial processing of CFRP. Finer CFRP-generated particles were detected by the nanoparticle-compatible devices; CPC and SMPS, but not by OPC or DDM. The dynamic detection pattern of the P-sensor resembled that recorded by the nanoparticle-compatible devices. The novel wearable P-sensor can be used to measure finer particles generated by CFRP processing in occupational settings. Second, the exposure assessment was conducted twice and the levels of the micro/nano particles in the second survey were significantly (less than half) lower than that in the first survey. By avoiding immediate power-off of the exhaust system after operations, the scattering of particles was effectively reduced. Our results indicate that effective use of local exhaust ventilation system improves the workplace environment for particle exposure.

Determining the effect levels of augmented decent work criteria in sustainable economic development with the fuzzy DEMATEL method

Creating decent work is among the priority issues for sustainable employment and development. This study aimed to determine the effect levels of the International Labour Organization (ILO) decent work criteria by augmenting nine indicators in the ILO manual to 12 criteria through a comprehensive literature review. Fuzzy DEMATEL, a multi-criteria decision-making method, has been preferred in this context. According to the analysis results of the study, the most heavily ranked criteria are ‘healthy workplace environment’, ‘decent working hours’ and ‘safe working conditions’ respectively, which contribute to the decent work concept. Further, ‘balance between work–family–personal life’ has been found the most affected criterion, while ‘education and training system’ has been the most affecting. Based on the findings, remedial and developing strategies are suggested on issues such as corporate culture, working hours regulation, safe working environment, subordinate–superior relations, social activities and regulations that take family life into account.

The Organisational Characteristics That Enable Successful Employment Transition for People With Intellectual Disabilities.

Social enterprises have the potential to address some of the current barriers that people with an intellectual disability experience in transitioning to open employment opportunities. However, it is unknown in detail how social enterprises are able to facilitate this transition, which limits ability to scale-up these organisational characteristics and strategies. Twenty-seven in-depth interviews were conducted with staff, supported employees and partner organisations of a social enterprise to understand the organisational characteristics that enables successful transitions. The organisational characteristics of the social enterprise that enabled transitions included offering a variety of roles and workplace environments for people with intellectual disabilities. Organisational characteristics also included having dedicated staff roles to support people with intellectual disabilities to develop skills to transition and for these support staff to network with open employers to facilitate the transition. The results provide an adaptable model for other social enterprises in how to structure their organisation to facilitate transition to open employment opportunities.

Cultural Diversity, Communication, Inclusivity and Collaboration in Nigerian Workplaces: A Review

The increasing cultural diversity in Nigerian workplaces has intensified the need for effective communication strategies to manage intercultural interactions and foster inclusiveness. This study examines the implications of cultural and linguistic diversity within Nigerian organizations, addressing the complexities of navigating ethnic, religious, and linguistic differences. The Communication Accommodation Theory (CAT), Social Identity Theory (SIT), and Intergroup Contact Theory provide foundational frameworks for understanding and managing these dynamics, with CAT highlighting how convergence and divergence in communication styles can bridge or amplify social divides. Through a detailed analysis of Nigerian workplace environments, this paper identifies key communication challenges, including language barriers and identity-driven in-groups, while proposing strategies rooted in CAT, SIT, and Intergroup Contact Theory to enhance collaboration and reduce tensions. Recommendations for organizational management, such as language training and structured intergroup activities, aim to foster a more inclusive and productive environment, acknowledging both the opportunities and challenges posed by Nigeria’s unique socio-cultural landscape.

Why should i be judged? Exploring third party perceptions of workplace incivility against single working mothers

A serious problem in the workplace is incivility, which impacts especially vulnerable groups like single mothers who hold jobs and experience subtle unfair or damaging treatment. As the number of single working mothers continues to rise in today’s workforce, this study aims to clarify third-party perceptions about incivility against them at work and subsequent influences on individuals as well as the organization. Because the analysis is embedded in theories of social role expectations and organizational justice, it explores third-party observers’ perceptions (such as coworkers or supervisors) of whether incivility directed at single working mothers differs from that experienced by their comparison group—professionally equivalent peers who do not share equal caregiver responsibilities. The researchers employed a mixed-methods approach, incorporating both quantitative surveys and in-depth qualitative interviews to collect rich data from participants who represented several fields. They report their results that third-party observers are less likely to experience vicarious justification of incivility against single working mothers but may be equally unlikely or even more reluctant than in the case of other employees and furthermore find this data account for these differences. The results illustrate the intricate interplay of gender, family structure and work dynamics on workplace outcomes—all leading to lower job satisfaction rates, a high level of stress or even stagnation in career progression for single working mothers. Our findings also extend the workplace incivility literature by demonstrating ways in which single working mothers are particularly vulnerable to this form of mistreatment and a broader need for organizational policies that cultivate an inclusive, supportive environment. Implications for human resource management, organizational culture and policy based on these findings are discussed as it may provide some recommendations for handling incivility in the workplace environment.

MEDIATING EFFECT OF WORK ENVIRONMENT OF SCHOOL HEADS ON THE RELATIONSHIP BETWEEN ETHICAL LEADERSHIP AND SCHOOL CULTURE

This study sought to ascertain the role that the workplace environment played in mediating the link between ethical leadership and school climate. Data were collected from 300 respondents who are elementary public school teachers of the public elementary schools in the province of Davao Oriental using a quantitative, non-experimental design using a correlational approach. For data gathering, the researcher used an online survey and stratified random sampling. Additionally, the researcher used the Pearson r, Med graph employing the Sobel z-test and mean statistical methods. According to the study's findings, there are very high levels of mean scores for ethical leadership, a high level for school culture, and a high level for work environment. Additionally, the findings showed a substantial association between ethical leadership and work environment, a large relationship between work environment and school culture, and a substantial relationship between ethical leadership and both. Additionally, it was discovered that the relationship between ethical leadership and school culture was somewhat mediated by the workplace.<p> </p><p><strong> Article visualizations:</strong></p><p><img src="/-counters-/soc/0799/a.php" alt="Hit counter" /></p>

Predictors of employee well-being: A global measurements using reflective-formative model

BackgroundEmployee well-being (EW) is an integral part of occupational safety & health. Therefore, measuring EW is very important for holistically evaluating well-being instruments and measurement models. This research aimed to identify and confirm dimensions that significantly contribute to EW and also to examine the reliability and validity of the formative model of EW. MethodsThe survey consisted of 89 items from a well-being questionnaire administered to 426 employees in the coal mining industry, covering five domains. Measurements were analyzed using partial least squares–structural equation modelling (PLS-SEM) with SmartPLS 4.1.1. The measurement and analysis were conducted in two stages, the first of which used a reflective model. Subsequently, the results of the first stage were used in the second stage as a formative model to measure EW globally. Result and conclusionHome, Community, and Society (HCS), Health Status (HS), Workplace Environment and Experience (WEE), Workplace Policies and Culture (WPC), as well as Workplace Environment and Safety Climate (WPE) domain significantly contributed to EW, as identified through first-order reflective and second-order formative models. ContributionThis research developed a measurement model for EW with two orders: first-order reflective and second-order formative. It also offered practical insights for organizations and companies to measure and understand EW, providing a basis for implementing effective interventions.

Global digital overload: how Snapchat communication cycles influence workplace efficiency

Purpose This paper aims to explore the growing integration of social media, specifically Snapchat, into workplace environments and its impact on communication behaviors, especially among Generation Z and Millennials. The focus is on analyzing how Snapchat’s communication cycles, such as notifications, Snap streaks and best friend rankings, affect workplace efficiency. This study also investigates how cultural variations around connectivity and work-life balance amplify or mitigate these effects in global settings. Design/methodology/approach This research uses social comparison theory and self-determination theory to examine the psychological and social impacts of Snapchat’s features on workplace productivity. Drawing on qualitative and quantitative literature, the paper explores how different cultural contexts influence employees’ interaction with Snapchat during work hours. Theoretical frameworks are applied to understand the cognitive and social disruptions caused by social media, while practical strategies for human resource management are explored. Findings Snapchat’s design fosters continuous user engagement, often leading to fragmented attention and reduced productivity, particularly in work environments. Cultural norms surrounding social media usage and work-life boundaries either intensify or alleviate the disruptive effects of Snapchat. For example, the pressure to maintain social ties amplifies workplace distractions in collectivist cultures. In contrast, individualistic cultures may emphasize productivity over social connection, allowing for more effectively managing these distractions. Originality/value This paper contributes to the growing body of literature on social media’s impact on workplace dynamics by offering a culturally nuanced approach to understanding digital distractions. By focusing on Snapchat, a platform with unique features that encourage habitual interaction, the study provides novel insights into how global human resource strategies can be tailored to different cultural settings. The findings suggest practical solutions for managing digital overload and optimizing employee performance in increasingly interconnected work environments.

Healthcare Provider Burnout: Red Flag for a Rising Epidemic.

This article aims to broaden the understanding of burnout in healthcare providers, its causes, and its reduction strategies. The objectives are to raise awareness, facilitate early intervention, and, ultimately, improve the overall well-being of healthcare providers and the quality of patient care. The study investigated healthcare-provision-associated burnout, an often-unrecognized syndrome affecting professionals worldwide, and its prevalence. It also examined the impact of burnout on patient outcomes, safety, and provider health and well-being. Here, we delve into the triad of burnout attributes: emotional exhaustion, depersonalization, and decreased personal accomplishment. Specific causes, such as work-life balance, workplace environment, and communication/teamwork, are investigated. The existing literature and studies we report explore the pathophysiological effects of burnout, including its impact on health, sleep patterns, and the alarming correlation with suicide. The prevalence of burnout among healthcare providers is between 30% and 50%. Burnout is a significant factor contributing to poor patient outcomes and threatening patient safety. Furthermore, burnout can induce physical symptoms, including psychological, cardiovascular, and gastrointestinal disorders. We emphasize the importance of identifying and preventing burnout to maintain the overall integrity of healthcare providers and eliminate vulnerabilities for harm to their patients. Burnout awareness should be a priority from the early stages of healthcare providers' careers because it is crucial for maintaining their well-being, preventing medical errors, and sustaining high-quality patient care. The identification and prevention of burnout are deemed vital not only for the well-being of healthcare providers but also to safeguard against potential harm to patients. This article calls for increased awareness of burnout, its underlying causes, and the implementation of effective reduction strategies in the healthcare profession.

Data Quality in State Registry Reports of Medical Cannabis Patients in the United States.

Objectives. To investigate characteristics of data reported in US medical cannabis registries across states. Methods. Data included 2021 medical cannabis registry reports from 34 states, Puerto Rico, and the District of Columbia (hereafter, states) with active medical cannabis programs. The data from the reports were manually coded into domains and subcategories, including information related to patients (e.g., number, demographics), authorizing clinicians, sales (e.g., content, revenue), license tracking, and health and safety outcomes. Results. Among 36 states, 97% reported total patient number and 75% reported number of authorizing clinicians. Least reported subcategories included patient race/ethnicity (8%), adverse events (11%), therapeutic benefits (6%), and product recalls (6%). States that recently legalized medical cannabis (2013-2018) reported a higher number of subcategories overall, with a median of 11 versus 8 for early adopting states (1996-2012). More medical-use states reported data on authorizing clinicians compared with nonmedical adult-use states but were otherwise similar. Conclusions. Medical cannabis state registries generally reported data on consumers, clinicians, and sales rather than health and safety outcomes. More comprehensive and uniform medical cannabis public health surveillance is needed. (Am J Public Health. 2024;114(S8):S685-S693. https://doi.org/10.2105/AJPH.2024.307728).

Perception and preparedness of physicians in public-sector hospitals of LMICs during the COVID-19 pandemic: a phenomenology-based qualitative study

Background: Amid such a global chaotic scenario generated by the COVID-19 pandemic, physicians hold a significant frontline position in the health care system. The current study was designed to explore the perception and preparedness of physicians toward the COVID-19 pandemic and their patient assessment and management aspects. Methods: A total of 11 physicians were purposively interviewed. All the interviews were audio-taped, transcribed verbatim, and subjected to thematic content analysis. Results: Thematic content analysis yielded six major themes: familiarity with COVID-19, perceptions and attitudes toward COVID-19, preparedness for safety against COVID-19, case assessment, barriers to lifestyle, and psychological perspectives. Even in resource-limited settings with the scarcity of sufficient protective equipment and first-line medicines, the physicians provided patient care. They demonstrated intact self-esteem and better understanding and preparedness for COVID-19. Conclusions: The findings demand timely and adequate provision of personal protection equipment, availability of first-line medicines, as well as development and implementation of occupational health surveillance measures that ensure mental health well-being.

Using citizen science to explore barriers and facilitators for healthy and sustainable lifestyles in office environments

The socio ecological model states that individual behaviors at work are shaped by the interactions between individual employees and their work environments. This study used citizen science to gain insights into which elements of the built, social, and organizational environment in an office and surrounding neighborhoods in two Swedish cities were perceived as barriers to or facilitators of healthy and sustainable behaviors at work. Participants in the eight-week Sustainable Office Intervention pilot study (SOFIA) (n = 33) were cluster-randomized into an experimental arm (sustainable lifestyle) or a control intervention arm (healthy lifestyle). They used the Our Voice Healthy Neighborhood Discovery Tool mobile app to document contextual elements at their workplaces. In total, 114 photos and text-based narratives were recorded, and four themes emerged: built environment, building design, office ergonomics, and food and beverages. Eighteen percent of the photos were linked to pro-environmental behaviors, all exclusively captured by the experimental arm. Twelve barriers and solutions for improving the workplace environment were identified during discussions with participants in both arms. The findings provide insights for designing or renovating office spaces and urban planning to promote healthier and more sustainable lifestyles for office workers.

AI AND EMPLOYEE WELLBEING: HOW ARTIFICIAL INTELLIGENCE CAN MONITOR AND IMPROVE MENTAL HEALTH IN THE WORKPLACE

This paper explores the integration of Artificial Intelligence (AI) in enhancing employee mental health and well-being in workplace environments. With growing concerns over stress, anxiety, and burnout in the workplace, AI offers novel solutions to monitor, assess, and improve mental health. By leveraging AI technologies such as sentiment analysis, chatbots, virtual assistants, and wearable devices, organizations can detect early signs of stress and burnout, enabling timely interventions. AIs role in providing personalized mental health support, including customized wellness programs and real-time stress management tools, is also discussed. However, the paper highlights key challenges, including data privacy, algorithmic bias, and the ethical implications of continuous employee monitoring. Ethical considerations surrounding employee consent, privacy, and the role of human oversight are crucial to ensuring AIs effectiveness and maintaining trust in its application. Ultimately, the integration of AI in mental health management has the potential to create healthier, more productive workplace environments when coupled with ethical practices and human support systems.

A Review on Image Enhancement Using AI

Image Enhancement is an important domain in image processing, as this helps to ensure the potentiality and visibility of images. With regular increase in image production, Image enhancement comes under use as most of the image gets dull or degraded while clicking, thus it is important to develop methods for image enhancement. Image enhancement is performed by various machine learning approaches, by decompressing, denoising and decomposing images. This is variously used in the field of medical, journalism, forensic investigation, satellite imaging, photography and security and surveillance. This paper provides an overview of the importance of image enhancement and various methods to apply it on images.