Showing 346 results for Type of Study: Research
Akram Mahmoodi, Teimour Allahyari,
Volume 13, Issue 2 (8-2025)
Abstract
Objectives: In modern demanding work environments, workforce resilience and ergonomic climate are recognized as critical factors for maintaining employee well-being and enhancing organizational productivity.
Methods: This cross-sectional, descriptive-analytical study investigated the relationship between ergonomic climate and employee resilience in a gas company. A total of 170 employees were selected through cluster random sampling. Data were collected using two validated instruments, namely the Ergonomic Climate Questionnaire and the Connor-Davidson Resilience Scale. Statistical analyses were conducted in SPSS software (version 26), using descriptive statistics, Pearson correlation, one-sample t-tests, and regression analysis.
Results: Mean scores of gas company ergonomic climate and employee resilience were obtained at 135.03±29.96 and 96.5±16.44, respectively. The correlation coefficient between ergonomic climate and employee resilience for 171 samples was calculated at +0.22. The findings indicated that the mean scores for ergonomic climate, operational performance, employee well-being, and individual resilience were significantly higher than the midpoint of the Likert scale. Moreover, individual resilience was found to have a positive and significant correlation with all dimensions of ergonomic climate, namely management commitment, employee involvement, hazard identification and control, and training and knowledge. However, no significant relationships were observed between demographic variables (age, gender, education, work experience) and resilience.
Conclusion: An appropriate ergonomic climate plays a significant role in reducing stress and improving the psychological conditions of the workplace. Employees' resilience can be positively affected by physical and mental health enhancements, stress reduction, job satisfaction increases, and improvements in work-life quality. Therefore, organizational attention to ergonomic issues and the implementation of supportive strategies can improve workplace ergonomics, thereby enhancing individual resilience among employees.
Simindokht Kalani, Mandana Katebi, Farzin Emamifar,
Volume 13, Issue 2 (8-2025)
Abstract
Objectives: The interaction between work and family roles can result in various outcomes, including work-family conflict or enrichment. The way individuals manage the boundaries between these two domains plays an essential role in shaping the quality of this interaction, with work-related rumination being a common manifestation of role integration. The present study aimed to assess the relationship of work-related rumination with work-family conflict and enrichment.
Methods: This cross-sectional study included 330 employees from an industrial organization in Isfahan, selected via convenience sampling. Participants completed questionnaires measuring work-family conflict, work-family enrichment, work-related rumination, positive and negative work reflection, the Irritation scale, as well as the subscales of excessive commitment and Wok Obsession/Inability to Recover. Data were analyzed using stepwise regression analysis.
Results: Among the nine types of work-related rumination, cognitive Irritation (P<0.001), affective rumination (P<0.001), and negative reflection (P<0.001) predicted work-family conflict and together explained 56% of its variance. Problem-solving pondering (P<0.001), positive reflection (P<0.001), and negative reflection (P=0.003) predicted work-family enrichment and explained 12% of its variance.
Conclusion: Work-related rumination does not necessarily have a negative impact on work–family relations and may lead to different outcomes depending on its nature. Certain types of rumination may facilitate the transfer of beneficial work experiences to the family domain. These results highlight the importance of examining the consequences of specific forms of work-home integration rather than broadly rejecting any integration.
Mohsen Aliabadi, Ramin Rahmani, Maryam Farhadian, Seyed Ghavameddin Attari, Hadi Aeini,
Volume 13, Issue 2 (8-2025)
Abstract
Objectives: In the furniture industry, workers operating woodworking machinery are exposed to hand-arm vibration. The present study aims to assess the occupational exposure levels and associated health effects of vibration transmitted to the hand during the operation of vibrating equipment in furniture carpentry workshops.
Methods: This case-control study was conducted on 59 carpenters (case group) and 39 painters (control group) in Malayer city, Iran. Hand-arm vibration exposure was measured in accordance with ISO 5349. Symptoms related to hand-arm vibration were assessed via questionnaire. Vascular disorders were evaluated through the hand temperature recovery test, according to ISO 14835. Sensory function was examined using the monofilament test kit, and grip strength of the hand and fingers, as well as hand dexterity, were measured for both groups. The collected data were analyzed using SPSS (version 26).
Results: Based on the findings of the present research, the 8-hour equivalent acceleration of hand-arm vibration among carpentry workers was 2.74 ± 0.85 m/s². The most frequently reported symptoms among carpenters were hand pain, tingling, and finger pruritus, while Raynaud’s phenomenon (finger blanching) was the least frequently reported. Grip strength, finger strength, hand dexterity, and motor skills were significantly lower in the exposed group compared to the controls (P<0.05). Around 10 percent of carpenters exhibited reduced superficial tactile sensitivity. However, no significant difference was observed between the exposed and control groups in terms of vascular impairments.
Conclusion: Chronic exposure to hand-arm vibration in furniture carpentry workshops, even at levels below the permissible limit, can lead to a range of sensory-neurological, vascular, and musculoskeletal symptoms in the hand and arm region, and can adversely affect motor function in these workers.
Zahra Jahani, Mahshid Namdari, Nastaran Keshavarz Mohammadi, Mahnaz Saremi,
Volume 13, Issue 2 (8-2025)
Abstract
Objectives: Musculoskeletal disorders, including back pain, are increasingly prevalent among school-aged children. Poor postural habits and improper backpack carriage are significant contributing factors. However, there is currently no comprehensive, standardized tool available to assess children’s knowledge of ergonomics related to spinal health.
Methods: This methodological study involved the development of a questionnaire through a seven-step process. Following the creation of the preliminary version and assessment of face validity, content validity was evaluated using the Content Validity Index (CVI) and Content Validity Ratio (CVR) by ten experts. The reliability of the instrument was assessed using a test-retest procedure with 15 students and internal consistency was evaluated using Cronbach’s alpha coefficient with a sample of 180 students.
Results: The final version of the questionnaire, entitled Kids’ Spine Ergonomics Awareness (KidSEA), comprised 13 items across three domains: "Spinal Anatomy," "Correct Posture," and "Ergonomics of Carrying School Supplies." The CVI and CVR for each item exceeded 0.79 and 0.62, respectively, indicating that all items were validated. Cohen’s kappa coefficient for individual items was above 0.41, and the overall Cronbach’s alpha was 0.74, demonstrating acceptable levels of reliability and internal consistency.
Conclusion: The KidSEA questionnaire is a valid and reliable instrument for assessing knowledge of ergonomic principles related to spinal health in children. It can be utilized to evaluate health literacy concerning spinal care, design targeted interventions, and inform educational programs for children in the studied age group. Further studies are recommended to establish the validity of the instrument across different age groups.
Maryam Momtaz-Bakhsh, Saeed Ghasemi, Nabi Omidi, Mohammadreza Omidi, Vahideh Menati,
Volume 13, Issue 2 (8-2025)
Abstract
Objectives: Musculoskeletal disorders (MSDs) are among the main occupational health challenges in industries with demanding working conditions, such as petrochemical plants. This study aimed to investigate the effect of a combined ergonomic and exercise intervention on pain reduction and motor performance improvement among the employees of Ilam Petrochemical Company.
Methods: This quasi-experimental study utilized a pre/posttest design with 40 male workers. Participants were randomly assigned to either an intervention group (receiving ergonomic training combined with exercise) or a control group. Data were collected using the Nordic Musculoskeletal Questionnaire and Motor Performance Questionnaire. Following that, the obtained data were analyzed using independent t-tests and repeated measures ANOVA.
Results: The combined intervention significantly reduced pain in the lower back (55%), shoulders (56%), and knees (57%), while improving the total motor performance score (43%; P<0.001). Cohen’s d effect sizes ranged from 1.8 to 2.5, indicating high effectiveness.
Conclusion: The integration of ergonomic and exercise interventions led to a significant reduction in musculoskeletal pain and improvement in motor performance among petrochemical workers. These findings demonstrate the positive impact of the intervention on workers' motor performance indicators.
Abbas Farjad Pezeshk, Mohammadreza Vafai, Saeed Ilbeigi,
Volume 13, Issue 2 (8-2025)
Abstract
Objectives: The role of shaft stiffness in military boots is widely recognized, yet the majority of studies focus on quantifying stiffness rather than examining how the material composition of the boot shaft influences performance. The present study aimed to assess the effect of different boot materials on kinetic parameters, comparing conventional leather boots to a hybrid leather-synthetic design to assess their impact on mobility and biomechanical efficiency.
Methods: A repeated-measures experimental design was employed, assessing 20 healthy male participants under four conditions: walking with a formal shoe and three military boot types, each featuring distinct shaft materials (two leather and one a hybrid leather-synthetic design). Ground reaction forces, rate of force development, and impulse were recorded using a force plate. Statistical analysis involved repeated-measures ANOVA with Bonferroni correction.
Results: Featuring synthetic materials in the shaft, boot 3 displayed reduced negative impulse and elevated positive impulse relative to traditional leather boots during gait.
Conclusion: These findings highlighted the biomechanical advantages of hybrid boot designs, suggesting that reduced shaft stiffness improves mobility and motion efficiency. The study underscores the need for optimized traditional boot materials to enhance gait performance while minimizing injury risks, particularly for military personnel.
Zahra Sadat Sharifi, Rasoul Hemmatjo, Abolfazl Ghahramani,
Volume 13, Issue 3 (9-2025)
Abstract
Objectives: Nowadays, electronic devices such as computers, mobile phones, and tablets have played an important role in people's work and lives, and the main complaint of users of video terminals is eye symptoms caused by them. This study aimed to evaluate the intensity of lighting and brightness and its possible relationship with visual fatigue in users of video terminals at Tabriz University of Medical Sciences.
Methods: This cross-sectional study was conducted on 171 users of video terminals at Tabriz University of Medical Sciences. In this study, the local illuminance intensity at the work surface and the luminance intensity from the screen at the user's eye level were measured. A 15-question visual fatigue questionnaire was used to assess visual fatigue. The results were analyzed using paired t-tests and chi-square tests using SPSS software.
Results: In this study, the average local illumination intensity on the desk was 306.6 lux and the average luminance intensity was 73.9 candelas per square meter. Local illumination intensity was lower than the recommended level in 41.6 percent of cases. There was no statistically significant relationship between illumination intensity and users' vision during the study, and there was also no statistically significant relationship between users' luminance and vision. The results of this study showed that vision at the end of the work has a significant relationship with the individual's vision at the beginning of the work. The results of this study also showed that there is a significant relationship between visual fatigue and the type of work.
Conclusion: According to the findings of the study, it is recommended that, if possible, the time to start working with visual terminals should be when there is no feeling of visual fatigue. Also, since one of the factors affecting visual fatigue is the type of work, it is recommended that users manage their work in such a way that they are mostly inactive (reading the page).
Nabi Omidi, Neda Sadat Jafari, Mohammad Reza Omidi, Yadollah Mahmoodi,
Volume 13, Issue 3 (9-2025)
Abstract
Objectives: In high-risk operational environments such as oilfields, physical and psychological factors can undermine employee productivity and positive organizational behaviors. This study aimed to examine the effect of ergonomic skills training on enhancing Organizational Citizenship Behavior and productivity among operational staff of the Azar oilfield.
Methods: This quasi-experimental study employed a pre-test–post-test design with a control group and was conducted on 40 male operational workers. Participants were randomly assigned to either an ergonomic training group or a control group (20 participants each). Data were collected using the OCB questionnaire by Podsakoff et al. (1990) and the HPQ questionnaire by Hersey and Goldsmith (1980). Analyses included independent t-tests, analysis of covariance (ANCOVA), and within-group comparisons.
Results: After the 4-week intervention, the ergonomic training group showed significant increases in total OCB scores (from 105.6 to 118.4; +12.1%) and HPQ scores (from 128.8 to 145.6; +13.0%) (p < 0.001). The greatest OCB improvements were observed in altruism (+15.3%) and conscientiousness (+14.8%), while HPQ improvements were highest in motivation (+16.2%) and ability (+15.4%). Cohen’s d effect sizes ranged from 1.78 to 2.20, indicating a high level of effectiveness. No significant changes were observed in the control group (p > 0.05).
Conclusion: Ergonomic skills training markedly improved organizational citizenship behavior and productivity among employees of the Azar oilfield. These findings underscore the strategic value of investing in ergonomic training programs to enhance both individual and organizational performance in high-risk workplaces.
Samin Asghari, Mahmoodreza Azghani, Sadra Jalali,
Volume 13, Issue 3 (9-2025)
Abstract
Objectives: Musculoskeletal disorders, particularly foot problems, are among the leading causes of reduced quality of life and work productivity. Evidence suggests that occupational conditions and daily activities play a crucial role in the development of foot pain. This study aimed to examine the association between occupational status and the severity of foot pain and functional impairment using the Foot Function Index (FFI).
Methods: This cross-sectional study was conducted on 2,848 participants in East Azerbaijan Province, Iran. Based on occupational status, participants were categorized into employees, self-employed, housewives (women only), and students. Data were collected using the FFI questionnaire. Normality of the data was tested using the Kolmogorov–Smirnov and Shapiro–Wilk tests. Since the distribution was non-normal, inter-group comparisons were performed using the non-parametric Kruskal–Wallis test, followed by pairwise comparisons with the Mann–Whitney U test and Bonferroni correction where necessary
Results: The findings revealed that students, in both men and women, reported the highest levels of foot functional problems, while employees and self-employed individuals had lower FFI scores. Among women, housewives reported fewer problems compared to students. Statistical analyses confirmed significant differences between occupational groups (p<0.001)
Conclusion: This study demonstrated that occupational status is directly associated with foot pain and functional impairment. The results highlight students as a high-risk group requiring targeted preventive and ergonomic interventions. Identifying the impact of occupational factors on foot health can provide a basis for designing strategies to improve occupational health and reduce the burden of musculoskeletal disorders.
Reza Masoudi, Zahra Saeidi, Shahla Abolhassani, Leili Rabiei,
Volume 13, Issue 3 (9-2025)
Abstract
Objectives: Healthcare staff, due to the nature of their job, are exposed to various occupational hazards including ergonomic stressors, which can affect their health and lead to job burnout. The present study aimed to investigate the effect of ergonomic intervention on job burnout and resilience among employed nurses.
Methods: This semi-experimental study was conducted with 70 nurses employed at Shohada Lordegan Hospital during the years 2018–2019 (1397-1398). The study units were randomly assigned by block randomization into two groups: intervention and control. The ergonomic intervention consisted of four stages (education, work modification, a regular exercise program with supervision, support, and follow-up) applied to the intervention group. The control group received no intervention. Data were collected using a demographic questionnaire and the Maslach Burnout Inventory. The mean scores before, immediately after, and three months after the intervention were compared using SPSS version 23 with independent t-test, chi-square, and repeated measures ANOVA.
Results: There was no significant difference in the mean job burnout score between the two groups before the intervention (p>0.05). However, after the intervention, this difference became significant, with the intervention group showing less job burnout and greater resilience compared to the control group (p<0.001).
Conclusion: The findings of this study showed that implementing ergonomic intervention among nurses can reduce job burnout. Given the effectiveness of the intervention, it is recommended that ergonomic training programs be included in nursing educational curricula.
Kamal Azadi, Manouchehr Haidary, Farzaneh Saki,
Volume 13, Issue 3 (9-2025)
Abstract
Objectives: In recent years, the use of smartphones has affected people's lifestyles and caused postural abnormalities, especially in the spine. Therefore, the aim of this study is to investigate the effect of corrective exercises on proprioception, forward head posture, shoulder and neck muscle strength in male students who use mobile phones.
Methods: The research method was semi-experimental and pre-test, post-test. The statistical population consisted of 34 students (mean age 15.34) from the city of Rosen, who were randomly divided into two groups of 17 (experimental group and control group). The experimental group's exercise program was carried out for 6 weeks, 3 sessions per week (total 18 sessions) and each session lasted 1 hour. During this period, the control group did not receive exercise. Before and after the intervention, the variables of head forward were measured by imaging, neck muscle strength using a dynamometer, neck proprioception using a laser pointer, and shoulder protrusion using a graduated ruler. The data were analyzed using correlated and independent t-tests and SPSS software.
Results: Based on the findings of the present study, head forward (P=0.001), shoulder forward (P=0.001), neck muscle strength (P=0.001), and neck proprioception (P=0.001), improved in the experimental group after implementing the training protocol, but no significant improvement was observed in the control group for head forward (P=0.188), shoulder forward (P=0.211), neck muscle strength (P=0.402), and neck proprioception (P=0.452).
Conclusion: In general, it can be said that 6 weeks of corrective exercises improve neck pain and have positive effects on controlling body abnormalities. It also reduces pain and increases neck muscle strength and improves neck proprioception by positively affecting head forward.
Samaneh Daryushi, Teimour Allahyari, Zanyar Karimi, Hamidreza Khalkhali,
Volume 13, Issue 3 (9-2025)
Abstract
Objectives: Pillows play a key role in supporting muscles and maintaining the natural posture of the neck during sleep. The present study aimed to measure and investigate the effect of pillow shape, filling material, and sleeping posture on cervical angle and perceived comfort during sleep.
Methods: A total of 10 participants (5 males and 5 females) with a mean age of 26.7 years took part in this study. Each participant used the tested four pillows (two cylindrical pillows and two rectangular pillows, one with wool content and the other with memory foam) for one hour (30 minutes in the supine position and 30 minutes in the lateral position). During the experiment, the cervical angle was measured using a Kinect sensor. At the end of each 30-minute session, participants were asked to report their perceived comfort level with visual analogue scale (VAS).
Results: Analysis of variance revealed that the cervical angle in the cylindrical wool pillow with the supine posture was significantly greater than in other conditions (P < 0.01). The smallest cervical angle was observed with the rectangular memory foam pillow in the lateral posture. Comparison of sleeping posture effects on cervical angle showed a significant difference between the two studied postures (P < 0.01). The highest perceived comfort was reported in the lateral posture using a traditional rectangular pillow.
Conclusion: The results indicate that pillow shape and material, as well as sleeping posture, significantly affect cervical angle and perceived comfort. Therefore, selecting an appropriate pillow based on sleeping posture may help improve comfort and maintain proper cervical alignment during sleep.
Elahe Amouzadeh, Siavash Etemadinezhad, Jamshid Yazdani Charati,
Volume 13, Issue 3 (9-2025)
Abstract
Objectives: Office automation systems are essential for optimizing administrative processes, reducing human errors, and improving organizational efficiency. However, their effectiveness depends on usability and user interaction quality. This study assesses the usability of the Chargoon office automation system at Mazandaran University of Medical Sciences using a mixed-methods approach, addressing gaps in prior evaluations of similar systems in Iranian academic settings.
Methods: A mixed-methods design was employed, with the quantitative component using the standardized System Usability Scale (SUS) and the qualitative component involving heuristic evaluation based on Nielsen's ten principles by five UX experts. Simple random sampling selected 240 employees and faculty members. Performance data, including task completion time and error rates for six frequent tasks, were collected and analyzed using ANOVA and Pearson correlation in SPSS v26.
Results: The mean SUS score was 64.83 (±12.84), indicating acceptable usability with room for improvement. The task 'sending a letter to multiple recipients' showed the highest error rate (15.2%) and completion time (57.3 seconds). Heuristic evaluation identified 99 issues, primarily in system feedback (25%) and error prevention (20%).
Conclusion: The Chargoon system has moderate usability but requires targeted improvements in interface design, feedback mechanisms, and error prevention to reduce cognitive load and operational costs in academic settings
Ali Afshari,
Volume 13, Issue 4 (1-2026)
Abstract
Background and Objectives: With the expansion of digital technologies and the increasing use of smart tools in workplaces, challenges such as musculoskeletal disorders (MSDs) and reduced employee productivity have emerged. This study aimed to examine the effects of digital workplace design and smart tools on employees’ physical and mental health as well as their productivity.
Methods: The research employed a descriptive-analytical field study design. The statistical population included administrative employees of selected organizations, 150 people were selected as a sample from the population above according to the Morgan table and stratified random sampling method. Data were collected using the Nordic Musculoskeletal Questionnaire and the Hoffman Employee Productivity Questionnaire. Hypotheses were tested using paired t-tests and regression analysis, with SPSS 25 applied for statistical computations.
Results: The findings revealed a significant negative relationship between musculoskeletal health and productivity (r = -0.47), indicating that increased musculoskeletal problems were associated with decreased efficiency (r = -0.41), task quality (r = -0.39), goal commitment (r = -0.45), and time management (r = -0.36). Multivariate regression analysis demonstrated that digital workplace design and the use of smart tools were significantly associated with a reduction in musculoskeletal problems (β = -0.52, p < 0.05) and an increase in employee productivity (β = 0.46, p < 0.05).
Conclusion: The results indicate that ergonomic workplace design combined with the use of smart tools reduces musculoskeletal discomfort and enhances employee productivity. These findings emphasize the importance of implementing ergonomic and technology-enhanced work environments to promote both employee health and organizational performance.
Nabi Omidi, Mohammad Reza Omidi, Mohsen Emami, Mohammad Reza Omidi,
Volume 13, Issue 4 (1-2026)
Abstract
Background and Objective: With the increasing expansion of digital banking, cyber threats have become a major financial and operational risk. This study aimed to design a model based on macro-ergonomic principles to strengthen cybersecurity resilience in order to reduce financial risk in the digital banking industry.
Methods: This study was conducted with a mixed approach. In the qualitative phase, 15 experts were interviewed and the data were examined with thematic analysis. In the quantitative phase, the resulting conceptual model was tested through a researcher-made questionnaire on a sample of 387 bank employees. Data analysis and evaluation of the final model were performed using structural equation modeling (SEM) in LISREL software.
Results: The qualitative analysis led to the identification of 5 main themes and 32 sub-themes that formed the dimensions of the model: technical-instrumental subsystem, human-psychological, organizational-structural, environmental-supervisory factors, and cybersecurity resilience (consequence). The results of the quantitative model test showed that the model has a good fit (CMIN/DF = 2.41, GFI = 0.92, CFI = 0.94, RMSEA = 0.061, SRMR = 0.057). All four macroergonomic dimensions had a positive and significant effect on cybersecurity resilience. Among them, the “organizational-structural subsystem” with a standardized path coefficient of 0.48 had the greatest effect and was identified as the strongest predictor.
Conclusion: The sociological-technical model based on macroergonomics provides an efficient framework for analyzing and strengthening cybersecurity resilience in digital banking; in such a way that increasing cyber resilience is expected to also help reduce financial risks. This result emphasizes the need to transition from purely technical approaches to a systemic and interactive approach between humans, technology, and organizational structure.
Roholah Hosseini , Soheila Azami,
Volume 13, Issue 4 (1-2026)
Abstract
Background and Objectives:The UK Health and Safety Institute believes that the factors that cause occupational stress can be examined in the form of set of management standards such as demand areas, changes, support from officials, support from colleagues, communication, control and role. The current research was conducted with the aim of investigating the seven areas that cause occupational stress and its relationship with the occupational performance of Saveh Medical Sciences employees during the Covid-19.
Methods: This research is an applied and cross-sectional research. The census method was used in the present research. The number of research samples is 316 people. The employees of the Health Department of Saveh Faculty of Medical Sciences were selected in 2022. To investigate the management of occupational stress and the performance of the employees, the standard questionnaires for occupational stress assessment (HSE) and the Patterson performance assessment were used, respectively. Data analysis was performed using SPSS26software.
Results: The results of this study showed that with the increase in the total score of occupational stress management as well as the areas of role, demand and changes, the total score of occupational performance of health workers increased significantly (P<0.001), while this relationship for the variables of the relationship area (06P=0.00), the support of officials (P=0.82), the support of colleagues(P=0.28) and control (P=0.18) were not significant. After adjusting the confounding effect of 7 areas on job performance, the role variable significantly had the greatest impact on the changes in employees' performance scores (P<0.001).
Conclusion: The demand domain score probably indicates that high work pressure and increased working hours have a significant impact on employee stress. Therefore, it is suggested that the workload and schedule be adjusted to the capacity, working conditions, and ability of employees through a review of organizational planning.
Farzin Emamifar, Simindokht Kalani,
Volume 13, Issue 4 (1-2026)
Abstract
Objectives: The rapid integration of artificial intelligence in workplace environments has transformed job structures, automated tasks, and altered employees’ work experiences. The present study aimed to examine the relationship between employees’ attitudes toward artificial intelligence and occupational depression, with the mediating roles of perceived job insecurity and perceived job fit.
Methods: In this descriptive–correlational study, 261 employees of the Telecommunication Company of Kerman Province were selected using convenience sampling and completed the Schepman & Rodwav (2020) Attitudes Toward Artificial Intelligence Scale, Nassasira (2020) Job Insecurity Questionnaire, Shafi Abadi and Rezaei (1997) Occupational Self-Concept Questionnaire, and Bianchi and Schonfeld (2020) Occupational Depression Inventory. The conceptual model was tested using partial least squares structural equation modeling.
Results: A positive attitude toward artificial intelligence was associated with a significant reduction in occupational depression (b=-0.12, p=0.038) decreased job insecurity (b=-0.501, p<0.001), and increased job fit (b=0.471, p<0.001). Job insecurity showed a positive relationship with occupational depression (b=0.417, p<0.001), whereas job fit showed a negative relationship (b=-0.243, p<0.001). Job insecurity (b=-0.209, p<0.001) and job fit (b=-0.114, p=0.002) mediated the relationship between attitudes toward artificial intelligence and occupational depression.
Conclusion: A positive attitude toward artificial intelligence reduces occupational depression by decreasing job insecurity and increasing job fit. The findings highlight the importance of fostering positive attitudes toward artificial intelligence through training, role redesign, and transparent communication within organizations to strengthen employees’ psychological security and perceived job fit
Leila Rastgoo Balov, Aysal Allahyari, ,
Volume 13, Issue 4 (1-2026)
Abstract
Background: The dental profession requires high levels of precision and fine motor control. Hand anthropometric dimensions, grip strength, and manual dexterity play critical roles in ergonomic tool design and performance. This study aimed to investigate gender differences in hand anthropometry, grip strength, and manual dexterity among dental students.
Methods: A cross-sectional descriptive-analytical study was conducted on 100 dental students (51 females and 49 males) at Urmia University of Medical Sciences. Hand dimensions were measured using a digital caliper, grip strength using a Jamar dynamometer, pinch strength using a SAEHAN pinch gauge, and manual dexterity using the Roeder test. Independent t-test was applied for gender comparisons.
Results: Male students had significantly larger hand dimensions and higher grip strength than females (p<0.001). However, there was no significant gender difference in manual dexterity (p>0.05).
Conclusion: Notable gender differences were found in hand anthropometry and grip strength but not in dexterity. Ergonomic design of dental instruments should consider these differences to reduce musculoskeletal strain and improve precision.
Shafe Abbasi, Roghaye Lotfi Esfahanjegh, Farideh Babakhani,
Volume 13, Issue 4 (1-2026)
Abstract
Background and Objectives: Footwear for foot support is recognized as a product for managing musculoskeletal disorders, and prolonged use of inappropriate shoes can have negative health consequences. Despite the growing use of these shoes in Iran, there is limited evidence regarding the associated clinical and practical challenges. Examining the experiences of vendors can help identify barriers to the supply and use of this product and provide practical data to improve prescription practices, consumer education, and the quality of clinical care.
Methods: This qualitative, ergonomics-focused study examined the challenges and opportunities of using foot-supportive footwear in Iran from the perspective of vendors. Data were collected using a modified Anderson questionnaire, validated by three orthotics and prosthetics specialists, and completed by 10 vendors. Thematic analysis of the data highlighted the needs and challenges related to foot-supportive footwear in the Iranian market.
Results: Athletes, individuals with normal weight, and those with forefoot deformities report the highest satisfaction with foot-supportive footwear, whereas people with conditions such as severe flat feet or back pain without custom insoles face challenges. Additionally, foot scanning and the design of personalized insoles play a crucial role in improving comfort and reducing foot pain.
Conclusion: Foot-supportive footwear, when designed and used ergonomically, can improve the function of foot muscles. However, individuals with back pain, high arches, heel spurs, corns, or various types of blisters should use them with caution, as improper use may exacerbate pain and worsen clinical symptoms.
Neda Sadat Jafari, Nabi Omidi, Mohammad Saraei Talab, Mohammad Reza Kermani, Elham Khosravi,
Volume 13, Issue 4 (1-2026)
Abstract
Background and Objective: This research was conducted to design and validate an integrated model for soft skills development, which combines technology-based empowerment with the principles of cognitive ergonomics.
Methods: This study utilized a mixed-methods approach with a sequential exploratory design. In the qualitative phase, in-depth interviews were conducted with 18 academic experts and senior bank managers selected through purposive sampling, and the data were analyzed using thematic analysis. In the quantitative phase, which employed a descriptive-survey design, the conceptual model derived from the qualitative phase was tested using a researcher-developed questionnaire on a sample of 395 employees from the headquarters and branches of Bank Refah Kargaran. Data analysis and model evaluation were performed using Structural Equation Modeling (SEM) in AMOS 26 software.
Results: The qualitative analysis led to the identification of 4 main themes and 28 sub-themes that formed the model’s dimensions: technology-based empowerment, cognitive ergonomic considerations, contextual and organizational factors, and integrated soft skills development (as the outcome). The quantitative model test results showed that the model had a good fit, and all three predictive dimensions had a positive and significant effect on soft skills development. Among them, “contextual and organizational factors” had the greatest impact with a standardized path coefficient of 0.45, identified as the strongest predictor.
Conclusion: This finding emphasizes the necessity of a systemic perspective that recognizes the interaction among humans, technology, and organizational structure. It demonstrates that successful employee empowerment requires simultaneous attention to both technological tools and the principles of cognitive ergonomics.
