Working Position Research Articles

Influence of environmental parameters on workers' dust inhalation in underground mines.

Much dust is generated in underground coal mining processes, posing threats to workers' health and safety production. Dust enters the human body mainly through inhalation, primarily determined by the dust concentration around workers. In this study, the airflow field and dust distribution in the tunnel are simulated with FLUENT software. The breathing zone for a worker was defined to clarify the extent of external dust distribution influencing dust inhalation. The effects of human respiration, dust production rates, air supply velocities, and workers' positions on dust concentration in the breathing zone were investigated. The results show that there is upward airflow around the worker standing in the center of the air circulation. Human breath barely influences the airflow distribution and respirable dust concentrations in the breathing zone. Reducing the dust production rate in the tunnel can decrease the respirable dust concentration in the breathing zone by almost the same proportion. While increasing the air supply velocity by 50% would reduce only 20% of dust in the breathing zone. The dust concentrations vary along the roadway, in which the low concentration zone is located in the middle, more than 1.0m away from the dust-producing surface and the wind surface. The research contributes to reducing workers' dust exposure with suggestions regarding ventilation optimization and working position selection.

Hierarchical clustering analysis of musculoskeletal stress factors and their risk level in cardboard manufacturing: research from PLIBEL.

A hierarchical cluster analysis for the cardboard manufacturing industry was developed with the aim of identifying similarities between workstations in terms of musculoskeletal stress factors (MSFs) and their impact on workers' bodies. The hierarchical clustering analysis was conducted using data from 44 workstations, which included 6 body part divisions and 51 stress factors as variables with 36 answer options. Firstly, the content of the dataset was defined. Secondly, the data were agglomerated and classified into 3 clusters using Ward's method based on the presence or absence of stress factors. Finally, the multivariable matrix was reduced to 2 factors: the x-axis representing the risk level of the workstation, and the y-axis representing the impact on the workers' health. The study found that workers' knees were the most affected body parts, with 47 cases. The resulting work-related musculoskeletal disorders included tendinitis, arthralgia, chondromalacia, and gonarthrosis. The MSF with the most significant impact on the body's health was fatiguing work that involves repeated jumps, prolonged squatting, or kneeling, present in cluster 1 and cluster 3. Moreover, two of the most common MSFs associated with repeated work positions were identified: a mild forward flexion of the back (63 cases) in combination with one leg being used more often to support the body (56 cases). It was possible to identify the main work-related musculoskeletal disorders and the associated stress factors for the cardboard manufacturing industry by using hierarchical cluster classification and analysis, enabling the classification of risk levels and the impact on body health for each workstation.

Working in interventional cardiology laboratories: The perceived impact of radiation exposure as a health and gender hazard. A NEXT generation ANMCO initiative

BackgroundGender-related discrepancies in personal and professional life have been reported among radio-exposed workers. We assessed this topic among cardiac catheterization workers in Italy, with a focus on gender and working position. MethodsRadio-exposed workers affiliated with the Italian Association of Hospital Cardiologists were invited to answer an online survey, which included 41 questions formatted as multiple choice. Results: Overall, 237 workers responded. The proportion of males was significantly higher than that of females in the population aged >50 years. A greater portion of females than males perceived female-gender discrimination regarding career advancement (77.2% vs 30.9%, p < 0.001) and work compensation (49.1% vs. 17.1%, p < 0.001). There was no difference in perceived gender- discrimination in terms of career advancement opportunities between physician and non-physicians. A larger portion of females than males experienced workplace discrimination (51.8% of females vs. 8.1% of males, p < 0.0001). Non-physician responders made up 38.8% of all respondents and reported a lower yearly radiation exposure than physicians. Non-physicians were more aware of the laws regulating lab access during pregnancy than physicians (93.5% vs. 48.3%, p < 0.0001). A greater percentage of female nurses than physicians communicate without hesitation the pregnancy status to their employers (45.6% vs 20%, p < 0.001). ConclusionsGender-based career disparities were perceived among physicians and non-physician staff of cardiology interventional laboratories. Strategies should be implemented to ensure gender equality in career opportunities and to increase knowledge of radioprotection and the laws regulating access to laboratories during pregnancy.

Alumni’s Intention-to-Engage Analysis: Quantitative Approach in Kazakhstani University

This study aims to explore graduates' willingness to participate in and contribute to their alma mater in the Kazakhstani context. Rather than focusing on the activities graduates engage in, such as volunteering and donations, this research seeks to understand graduates' time and desire to participate in various activities, events, and communications. By understanding the average maximum potential of graduates and the categories of activities they are willing to participate in, this research will provide insights for better engaging graduates in the future. The study utilized a quantitative research design, collecting data through a questionnaire adapted from the literature review. Descriptive statistics were used to analyze the data, revealing average lower levels of intention to engage in alumni activities among graduates. The analysis also explored the interaction between graduation year and work position, suggesting that respondents tend to have higher work positions as time passes since graduation. However, no significant differences regarding interest in alumni activities were found between work positions or years after graduation.

E-Airs: Interactive Ergonomic Monitoring System for Work Posture

Work posture and/or position of work is a crucial problem in work system. Unnatural posture will lead to discomfort when doing the task such as pain at part of body such that it will cause accident in the end. This accident will affect level of work performance of the worker so as the work productivity fails achieve a target determined. The failure mode, of course, results in a big loss for a company. This state should be avoided by use of the natural posture by worker in completing a job. However, many workers do not still understand what kind of a natural and unnatural work posture directly. So, this condition has high risk for being occurred the discomfort. Thus, it is important to develop a tool for helping them to identify a certain posture of work. Objective of this study is to design a monitoring system devices to capture and to determine an natural posture of the worker based on ergonomic principles. Rapid Upper Limb Assessment method is applied to determine a risk of work posture. Machine Learning concept is implemented to support in designing a system by also applying python programming language. Result of this study shows that monitoring system devices developed is usable in informing an unnatural posture of worker in completing a job. Thus, this result will beneficial for worker to improve work posture to be natural position so as discomfort can be prevented.

Inteligência emocional no Turismo: um estudo sobre os trabalhadores de empresas de foodservice no Sul do Brasil

The foodservice industry demands high levels of positive emotional behavior from all workers, especially those who interact directly with consumers. For this reason, emotional intelligence is an area of interest for foodservice. The objective of the study was to analyse the emotional intelligence (EI) of workers in foodservice companies in the cities of Itajaí and Balneário Camboriú, in southern Brazil. To that end, a survey was carried out with a sample of 284 respondents. The data collection instrument was based on the WLEIS scale. Analyses were performed using SPSS and SmartPLS software. As a result, it was seen that employees in the foodservice sector demonstrate how to use their emotions, but have difficulties in managing them. The use of emotion was the EI dimension that obtained the best results, and the emotion regulation dimension was the one that obtained the lowest averages. It is considered that EI is influenced by variables linked to gender, educational level and work position. The information gathered can assist in the subsidy of training and development programs to help employees in the foodservice sector.

Analysis of Work Positions in Microbiological Sample Testing in Food Industry Laboratories using the Rapid Whole Body Assessment (REBA) Method and Nordic Body Maps (NBM)

In a food industry laboratory, some activities are at risk of causing MSDs (Muscullos Skeletal Disorder). Based on the results of general interviews addressed to 10 microbiology laboratory assistants, the results obtained by workers experiencing complaints of pain in the upper neck, lower neck, shoulders, back, right upper arm, waist, buttocks, elbows, wrists, and calves. Based on the number of complaints due to work disturbances, it is necessary to identify a more in-depth assessment of work factors and risk levels using theRapid Entire Body Assessment (REBA) method. The results of this study based on the Nordic Body Maps questionnaire aimed at 10 microbiology laboratory assistants in the food industry laboratory, the highest value is complaints of pain in the waist, this isrelated to work position no. 7, namely the position of placing the Erlenmeyer that has been tested into a basket located on the floor. Then the assessment of work positions in group A = 7 and group B = 2 so that the results of the group C table assessment= 9 + 1 (load value) = 10 (including the risk level category 3 / high), so further investigation is needed.

NATURE IN THE POETRY OF DU FU (CHINA) AND NGUYEN KHUYEN (VIETNAM)

Tang poetry is a special poetic phenomenon of Chinese literature, including works that lasted throughout the Tang Dynasty, from the time Emperor Gaozu of Tang Li Yuan established the dynasty, until the collapse of the Tang Dynasty, a period of nearly 300 years (618-907). This is considered the golden age of Chinese poetry. In the Complete Tang Poetry published in 1707, there were 900 books, 30 volumes, and 48,900 poems by more than 2,200 poets of the Tang Dynasty. Tang poetry has a profound influence on Vietnamese literature, especially the absorption of the influence of authors such as Du Fu, Li Bai, Bai Juyi... Comparing the absorption of the influence of Tang poetry, China with that of Vietnamese poetry authors to clarify the absorption of the influence of foreign cultural and literary quintessence, and at the same time affirming the role and position of works imbued with the cultural identity of the Vietnamese nation is always a research direction of scientific and practical significance. Therefore, within the scope of this research, we will focus on comparing the theme of nature in the poetry of Du Fu and Nguyen Khuyen.

Risk of musculoskeletal disorders due to forced postures in a metalworking company

Introduction: musculoskeletal disorders (MSDs) range from acute injuries to disabling diseases, generating persistent pain, loss of functional capacity and even sick leave. Its high prevalence is associated with physical and postural factors, with forced postures, manual manipulation of loads and repetitive movements being the main triggers of these disorders. Due to the physical and postural demands, pain is especially prevalent in the back and extremities. Methods: the study was correlational and cross-sectional in design, with a quantitative approach. The sample consisted of 12 workers from an automotive company, selected by non-probabilistic sampling. Data were collected through a questionnaire and the application of the OWAS Method to evaluate work postures. The observation of postures was carried out at four intervals during the work day. The relative frequencies were analyzed and the risks of the postures were classified. Results: various musculoskeletal injuries were recorded, mainly contractures and tendonitis, with prevalent discomfort in the back, arms and legs. Most workers self-medicated to relieve pain. 37 work positions were identified, with a notable proportion of risk level 1 (65 %), followed by levels 2 and 3. A positive correlation (p=0,029) with a strength of 35 % was found between the risk level and the musculoskeletal disorders. No correlation was found between the level of risk and the duration of the injury. Conclusions: the presence of the musculoskeletal disorder is related to the level of risk, so intervening in positions that suggest more risk would reduce the prevalence of the musculoskeletal disorder

Surgical approach to closure of orosinusal communication with pedunculated Bichat adipose tissue, case report and literature review

Introduction: Orosinusal communications are pathological conditions that are characterized by the loss of hard and soft tissues that separate the oral cavity from the maxillary sinus. It is more common between the third and fifth decade of life, with predominance in the left upper jaw area due to the Uncomfortable work position and poor visualization. There are different treatments that can be used for this closure, such is the case of closure with a pedicled Bichat bag because one of the main advantages of this technique is the excellent blood supply of the flap, the lower morbidity of the donor site and the preservation of the normal anatomy of the oral mucosa. Objective: To perform a surgical approach to close the orosinusal communication using a pedicled Bichat bag in a patient who attended the Salazar Cordero Dental Center. Materials and methods: Data collection through interviews, in addition to using instruments such as clinical history, informed consent, radiological studies, clinical photographs, complementary examinations and surgical treatment. Result: A satisfactory result was obtained, with good tissue closure, without complications, the patient is evaluated every 15 days to see his healing process. Conclusion: Knowledge and management of the techniques in closing the orosinusal communication is of vital importance when presenting this type of complications and thus providing appropriate treatment to our patients.

THE STRUGGLE FOR HIGHER JOB POSITIONS AS AN ETHICAL PROBLEM

Competition for working positions at the workplace constitutes one of the real problems frequently encountered in business and management ethics. Despite its frequent occurrence at the workplace, as literature research shows, theoretical reflection on the issue within applied ethics is relatively rare. The present paper aims to provide a scholarly reflection on the unfair competition for positions, which is not in compliance with the ethical rules of competition. Furthermore, significance will also be placed on providing a definition of unethical job competition, identifying the features of this pattern of behavior, as well as describing the impact of this undesirable phenomenon. The present paper contributes to the underlying reflection on the issue from the point of view of applied ethics as applied in Economics. The main task of the study is to delineate the various features of unfair competition for higher work positions and the terminology related to this issue, possible ethical theoretical apologetics, and to describe the negative consequences of such conduct and practices.

IDENTIFICATION OF INCONVENIENCES AT TRANSPORT OPERATORS’ WORKPLACES

This article presents the results of a pilot survey of 300 transport operators, such as drivers, train drivers, and rescue workers. The surveys were conducted online using a Google form based on the Computer-Assisted Web Interview (CAWI) method. The following research objectives were set: to identify and compare the most relevant factors affecting the health and wellbeing of transport vehicle operators and to identify the key risks associated with their work. The findings were presented using descriptive statistics and correlation and principal component analyses. Descriptive characteristics indicated which quantitative characteristics were associated with exposure and discomfort. On the other hand, the results of correlation analyses showed, among other things, that “level of rest” as a function of “fatigue” showed a decreasing relationship and that “pain in arms, legs, lower back or neck” depended on “work position,” “use of excessive force,” and “work severity.” The results of the principal component analysis confirmed that the data cluster under the form of factors and that there are factors whose information values are insignificant. A similar conclusion applies to the input data (i.e., the answers to the test questions). The analysis showed that only the answers to 15 of 50 questions exceeded the threshold of 2% of the information entered in the test. This could lead to the conclusion that if the test could be repeated in the future, the correct result might be obtained with slightly fewer test questions.

BLOCKCHAIN TECHNOLOGIES AND THE FUTURE OF ART

In this paper, we follow the position of art, artists and works of art with regard to the conditions in which the work of art is created, in an environment ruled by capitalist relations and the high-tech environment that accompanies them. The transition from analog to digital formats has opened new perspectives for artistic creation and distribution of works of art, but also problems related to copyright protection and fair monetization of works of art. The advent of blockchain technology, especially the Ethereum blockchain platform with open source technology and smart contracts, has enabled more efficient communication, distribution and monetization of artwork. The focus of this paper is especially narrowed on the emergence of NFT (Non Fungible Tokens) that can be carriers of the value of a work of art. They enable the uniqueness of the work to be maintained through controlled scarcity. We will present the ERC-721 standard, which enables the creation of NFT, as well as the first five leading platforms for placing NFT tokens on the blockchain through selected examples.

Moral distress and moral courage among Iraqi nurses during the COVID-19 pandemic: a cross-sectional study.

In the years following its outbreak in 2019, COVID-19 changed the health-care system structures, the context of professional activity, and nurses' moral performance. The present study aimed to examine the moral distress and moral courage of Iraqi nurses during the COVID-19 pandemic. This cross-sectional and correlational study was conducted in 2021 on 168 nurses selected by convenience sampling methods. Data were collected by self-reported instruments including a demographic questionnaire, the Professional Moral Courage (PMC), and the Moral Distress Scale (MDS). Data were analysed using descriptive statistics, the Spearman, Mann-Whitney and Kruskal-Wallis tests, and SPSS version 22. Most nurses showed a moderate level of moral distress (98.80%) and a high level of moral courage (99.40%). The dimension of multiple values had the highest mean (12.45 ± 1.47) and endurance of threats had the lowest mean (9.15 ± 1.79). There was a statistically significant correlation between moral distress and moral courage (P = 0.007, r = - 0.2), and moral distress and the dimensions of endurance of threat (P < 0.001, r = - 0.26), going beyond compliance (P < 0.001, r = - 0.037), and moral goals (P < 0.001, r = - 0.173). A statistically significant relationship was also found between moral distress and work shift, position and gender (P < 0.05), and between moral courage and position (P < 0.05). We concluded that nurses need more organizational support in terms of protective facilities, job security and organizational incentives to be able to show ethical behaviors.

Quality of Work-Life and Employee Job Satisfaction in Nepalese Organizations

The purpose of this study is to explore and examine the factors of quality of work life in different organizations in the context of Nepal. In this study, causal comparative research design is used to determine the causes and consequences of selected variables. Information is gathered from 422 staff working in different organizations in different sectors of work and job positions using a set of structured questionnaires. For the analyses, mean, standard deviation, f-test, and multiple regression are used. The study revealed that career development and growth, empowerment and teamwork are found to be statistically significant

THE LABOR MARKET IN THE TOURISM SECTOR THROUGH THE PRISM OF GENDER EQUALITY

The labor market still strives to reach a full degree of gender equality, and therefore the subject of this paper is gender equality in the labor market in the tourism sector, as a sector dominated by female labor. The aim of the paper is the research of certain indicators of gender equality on the labor market in the tourism sector in Serbia. In order to achieve this goal, the existing domestic and foreign literature was initially investigated, and then an empirical investigation of quantitative indicators of gender equality was carried out. The research, conducted using a questionnaire, included 223 women and men employed in the tourism sector. The research examined the existence of differences between employed men and women according to the level of education achieved, type of work position and discrimination at work. The questionnaire also examined the attitudes of men and women regarding gender equality at work. The results of the research indicate the existence of gender inequality among employees in the tourism industry. The conclusion of the research indicates a scientific and practical contribution to the topic of gender equality in the labor market.

LIQUID-SOLID COUPLING RESPONSE OF SURROUNDING ROCK MASS OF LARGE-DIAMETER RIVER-CROSSING SHIELD TUNNEL

The purpose is to investigate the response of seepage field, displacement field and stress field in the surrounding rock mass during dynamic tunneling in soft soil area. Relied on a large-diameter river-crossing shield tunnel project, considering driving force, shield tail grouting pressure, and the friction resistance between the shield shell and the soil, a three-dimensional fine tunnel model considering the liquid-solid coupling effect in the soil during dynamic tunneling was established by employing the finite difference method. The response characteristics of pore water pressure, displacement and stress in the surrounding rock mass were obtained. The results show that during shield tunneling and shield tail grouting, the pore water pressure in the range of 0.5 times the hole diameter around the tunnel decreases and increases respectively due to the liquid-solid coupling in the surrounding rock mass. When the shield tunneling moves away, the pore water pressure of the soil near the vault decreases, and the pore water pressure near the tunnel arch bottom increases. The impact range of shield tail grouting on the vertical settlement of the upper soil is about 0.5 times the hole diameter. The shield tail grouting can effectively reduce the vertical settlement of the top soil and slow down the vertical uplift of the bottom soil. During shield tunneling the vertical stress distribution of the soil above the vault of the working position and around the excavation surface is funnel-shaped, and the vertical stress around the excavated tunnel decreases.

The Musculoskeletal Complaints Based on Work Position inWoven Bamboo Craftsmen

Introduction: Musculoskeletal disorders in Indonesia require attention due to their high prevalence. Woven bamboo craft production involves unnatural body postures at every stage, leading to potential injuries. Assessing musculoskeletal complaints can provide valuable data for ergonomic risk assessment. This study aims to analyze such complaints based on the working positions of bamboo weavers. Methods: This research is descriptive. The population in this study was all woven bamboo craftsmen with a total of 430 people. The total sample was 86 craftsmen from 20% of the population for descriptive research. The variables studied included work position and musculoskeletal complaints. Data collection was done by observation and survey. Data were analyzed descriptively by displaying the calculation results of the risk level of work positions and the risk level of musculoskeletal complaints. Results: Most of the work positions of craftsmen are in the medium-risk category (54.7%). The working position of the craftsmen who have very high-risk category is at the stage of making woven bamboo and finishing. The highest level of discharge risk is in the low complaint category (60.5%), and the high category of musculoskeletal complaints is at the stage of making the woven. Conclusion: The working position of the woven bamboo craftsmen is directly proportional to the complaints they feel. Intervention is needed to reduce the risk of injury and reduce musculoskeletal complaints felt by workers, especially in workers with very high-risk working positions.

Students’ Life Concerns and Graduate School Journey

Pursuing graduate studies is a fulfilling and rewarding experience, and sometimes challenging. Thus, this study examined the life concerns likely to contribute to the students’ graduate school journey. The study was conducted in the College of Graduate Studies, Palompon, Leyte, Philippines, utilizing a descriptive-correlational research design, with respondents recruited from the master's and doctoral degree programs. Relevant data were collected using survey questionnaires prepared in Google Forms. Data were analyzed using means, standard deviations, and the Spearman rank-order correlation. Results showed that the current study sample found their graduate school journey slightly good. Study findings revealed further that two demographic factors - age and work positions, were found negatively correlated with the graduate school journey, and this implies that younger graduate students tend to have better graduate school experience than older ones; and students holding supervisory positions have struggling graduate school experience. Correlation analysis indicated a significant negative relationship between work-related concerns and graduate school experience. Overall findings pinpoint the need for graduate school practitioners to consider initiatives that address students' life concerns and likewise formulate policies and guidelines that may provide them with a support system that helps students find their graduate school journey smooth, happier, and fulfilling.

A MULTI-PERSPECTIVE VIEW ON THE CONCEPT OF SOCIAL PROTECTION AND THE ROLE OF SOCIAL WORK IN (NOT ONLY) WARTIME CONDITIONS

The purpose of this article is to explore the multifaceted dimensions of the concept of social protection and the role of social work in (not only) wartime conditions. This is necessary, because social workers are often acting “helpless” confronted with massive global crises or even wars or war-like conditions. This article tries to sharpen the possible role and position of social work and with this the expectations on the discipline and profession of social work. To reach this, this article wants to shed light on the subject and the understanding of “crisis” and the different perspectives surrounding the interdisciplinary and multi perspective concepts of social protection, social support, and resilience. This perspective allows to a better understanding of the underlying principles, challenges and potential solutions related to social protection in times of crisis. In times of crisis, ensuring social protection and social support becomes an urgent priority for affected populations and even individuals. Social protection encompasses a wide range of measures designed to protect individuals and communities from the adverse effects of crises and to provide them with the necessary resources and assistance to cope with the challenges they face. This article is on the one side a s theoretical examination of the key terms. On the other hand directly affected people have their say: The co-author as a Ukrainian narrates her migration experiences and the results of a student - peer project with affected refugees from Ukraine in Eastern Switzerland are presented. The results are concrete and surprise at some points and sharpen the task and role of social work: First, feeling safe and getting (social) support and psychological assistance in the trauma and war situation is much important even to feel welcome and resurrected. But then mobility, networks, and the change to support their families, relatives and friends at home have a great importance. It is also very important to be able to travel to Ukraine (home) from time to time and to be able to return to the host country. The task of social work is a very special one: It is not primarily the role of the benefactor and care giver, but of the professional who makes things possible and supports and empowers the people who feel it. The article also makes clear, that a one-dimensional and static understanding of crisis, flight, migration and needs no longer works in today's world global situations and crisis. Keywords: Social work, social protection, social support, crises, war in Ukraine, Ukrainian refugees, needs