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Background/objectives: Sewing machine operators (SMO) are the most likely workers to experience a high prevalence of musculoskeletal disorders in the textile, clothing, and footwear industries. We conducted a cross-sectional and exhaustive study among SMO working in the leather and footwear industry to describe the prevalence of multi-site musculoskeletal symptoms (MMS) and evaluate factors associated with their occurrence. Methods: Musculoskeletal symptoms declared by these operators were assessed through the modified Nordic questionnaire. The psychosocial work environment was assessed using the Karasek model. The variables associated with MMS were issued from binary logistic regression and decision tree using R software. Results: Of 145 operators, 65.5 % of men and 72.4 % of women had MMS. Based on binary logistic regression, a history of musculoskeletal disorders (MSDs) increased the risk of developing MMS by 8 folds. The binary decision tree identified five main nodes: history of MSDs, professional seniority, often finding the pace of work restrictive and male gender. Conclusion: Identifying homogeneous profiles of MMS's occurrence will help the implementation of an effective and targeted preventive strategy.

Introduction There is a growing concern about the link between musculoskeletal disorders (MSD) and psychosocial risk (PSR) among electricians. Both MSD and PSR represent a threat to the electrician’s health, quality of life and productivity. Objectives This study aimed to assess the link between PSR and MSD among electricians. Methods The study was conducted in a group from an electricity society. Data were gathered between January-June 2022 using a self-administered questionnaire evaluating socio-professional characteristics, the Nordic musculoskeletal questionnaire during the previous year and the validated French version of the questionnaire KARASEK. Results Our study included 68 male electricians. The mean age was 39.2 ± 10.3 years. The average job tenure was 16± 11.4 years. According to the Nordic musculoskeletal questionnaire, 50% of participants experienced pain during the last 12 months. About half of the electricians had high psychological demand (48.5%), 63.2% had a low latitude, and 76.5% had low social support. According to the Karasek model, tense electricians accounted for 26.5% and assets 22.1%. MSDs were associated with high psychological demand at work (p = 0.02). Conclusions This study demonstrated that PSR and MSDs are associated among electricians and are highly prevalent. They represent an important concern of the occupational and safety health system. The prevention of MSD should take into account the specific working conditions of electricians to reduce their exposure to psychosocial risk factors in the workplace. Disclosure of Interest None Declared

Introduction In the workplace, a smoke-free environment is crucial to guaranteeing the health of workers and those around them. Understanding the relationship between smoking and work is a prerequisite for implementing effective tobacco control measures. Objectives To assess the prevalence of smoking in an electricity and gas company in Sfax and to determine the relationship between workers’ nicotine dependence and perceived workload. Methods We conducted a cross-sectional survey evaluating the smoking behavior of 100 employees of an electricity and gas company. The survey was carried out from July to December 2022 using a two-part questionnaire. The first part was completed by the participants, and the second was administered by the interviewer. Nicotine dependence was assessed using the Fagerström test, while perceived workload was evaluated using the raw NASA-TLX questionnaire. Results Our study population consisted of 82 male participants. Active smoking was reported by 45.1% of participants. Among smokers, 40.5% had moderate to high nicotine dependence as assessed by the Fagerström test. According to the raw NASA-TLX questionnaire, the mean scores for mental, physical, and temporal demands were 88.8±13.5, 63.6±24.7, and 59.1±28.4, respectively. The mean scores for effort, performance, and frustration were 83.8±14, 85.4±13.1, and 34.5±28.1, respectively. Bivariate analysis indicated an inverse correlation between nicotine dependence and physical demands at work. However, a significant positive correlation was found between nicotine dependence and frustration at work. Conclusions Smoking among electricity and gas company workers is a prevalent issue, highlighting the urgent need for smoking cessation interventions. The association of smoking with perceived workload underscores the importance of preventive measures to reduce work-related stress. Disclosure of Interest None Declared

Introduction Smoking among university professionals could influence student smoking behavior, making it important to understand the associated factors to prevent this phenomenon. Objectives To determine the prevalence of smoking among University staff in Sfax, Tunisia, and identify its associated factors. Methods We conducted a cross-sectional survey using a self-administered questionnaire distributed to 100 university staff. The questionnaire included socio-professional characteristics, assessment of physical workload using the Borg CR-10 scale, and evaluation of nicotine dependence using the Fagerström test. Results Our study included 62 participants, with 67.7% of them being women. Active smoking was reported by 50% of male participants. We observed symptoms of severe to very severe depression, anxiety, and stress in 6.4%, 22.5%, and 9.7% of our participants, respectively. Nicotine dependence, as assessed by the Fagerström test, was high to very high in half of the smokers. Bivariate analysis indicated a significant association between smoking and male gender, perceived workload (33.9%), and body mass index. Conclusions Smoking among university staff is a prevalent phenomenon, especially among male participants. The association of smoking with perceived workload suggests the need for preventive measures to reduce these physical constraints. It is paramount to take actions to encourage smoking cessation among university staff. Disclosure of Interest None Declared

Introduction Job satisfaction is a fundamental pillar of the modern workplace. Recognizing the significance of job satisfaction and actively promoting it has become a strategic imperative in today’s work environment. Objectives The present study aimed to assess job satisfaction and work ability among workers in a confectionery factory. Methods A cross-sectional study conducted in a Sfax confectionery factory included 200 workers. Data were collected between December 2022 and July 2023 using a pre-established questionnaire. This questionnaire encompassed an evaluation of socio-demographic and professional data, measuring the degree of professional satisfaction and the level of work ability using a visual analogue scale ranging from 0 to 10. Results The gender ratio was 0.64. The mean age was 33.2 ± 8.8 years. Among our workers, 77.5% reported being satisfied with their work. The average perceived work ability score was 8.15 ± 2.087. Employees with higher levels of satisfaction were more likely to have increased work capacity (p = 0.000). Elevated job satisfaction not only boosts work capacity but can also reduce stress levels, improve overall mental well-being, and contribute to a healthier workplace environment. These factors collectively lead to higher work ability. Conclusions These findings emphasize the importance of prioritizing employee well-being to enhance overall productivity and company success. Fostering a work environment that prioritizes job satisfaction can lead to a more productive and successful workplace. Disclosure of Interest None Declared

Introduction In operating rooms, the routine use of radiological procedures is commonplace. However, this essential tool brings about significant concerns for healthcare workers due to the associated radiological risks. Understanding healthcare workers’ attitudes and perceptions about ionizing radiation is crucial for addressing these concerns. Objectives This study aims to assess the perceptions and concerns of healthcare workers regarding radiation risks and their practices in the operating room. Methods A cross-sectional study was conducted in February and March 2023 among the operating room staff of Habib Bourguiba University Hospital in Sfax, Tunisia. We used a self-administered questionnaire that included socio-professional data. Self-assessment of exposure risk and protection level against ionizing radiation was evaluated on a scale from 0 to 10, and attitudes were assessed using a 5-item Likert scale. Results Our study population consisted of 92 healthcare workers, with 54.3% being male. When asking operating room workers about the availability, accessibility, and quality of lead aprons, the median scores were 3 (IQR [0;6.5]), 2 (IQR [0;5]), and 2 (IQR [0;5]), respectively. The median self-assessment score for exposure risk was 8 (IQR [5.5; 10]), while the median self-assessment score for protection against ionizing radiation was 1 (IQR [0;3]). Sixty percent of the population had limited knowledge of the harmful effects of ionizing radiation, with a median self-assessment knowledge score of 1.5 (IQR [0;3]). Sixty-two percent reported concerns regarding radiological risks. In terms of practices, 44.5% of the staff maintained a distance from the radiation source during intraoperative radiography, and 21.7% used the apron for protection. Dosimeters were not used by any of the participants. Concerns level was associated with self-assessment of exposure risk (p = 0.027). Conclusions In conclusion, awareness of the risks generates anxiety and concern among staff; however, it alone is insufficient to alter our practices. This underscores the imperative for a proactive approach in implementing robust safety measures and comprehensive training programs. Disclosure of Interest None Declared

Introduction Mental health is a critical factor influencing employee well-being and performance in companies. However, many factors within professional environments can either positively or negatively impact employees’ psychological well-being. Objectives This study aims to assess mental health among workers in a confectionery factory and its association with job satisfaction. Methods We conducted a cross-sectional study among workers in a private confectionery in Sfax. Questionnaires and workplace assessments were collected over a period from December 2022 to July 2023 using a pre-established questionnaire. Mental health assessment was performed using the 21-item Depression, Anxiety, and Stress Questionnaire (DASS21). The degree of job satisfaction was assessed using a visual analog scale ranging from 0 to 10. Results Our study included 200 participants, with 61% being female. Severe to very severe symptoms of depression, anxiety, and stress were found in 4.5%, 17%, and 10.5% of our participants, respectively. Among our workers, 22.5% reported being not very satisfied or not satisfied. Bivariate analysis revealed lower levels of satisfaction among the most anxious (p = 0.000), the most depressed (p = 0.000), and the most stressed (p = 0.000) workers. Conclusions The decline in mental health is closely linked to job dissatisfaction. Implementing measures to enhance employee job satisfaction and providing adequate support resources for mental well-being are essential steps to promote a healthier workplace and improve employee well-being. Disclosure of Interest None Declared

Introduction Among young medical practitioners, the exigencies of daily practice entail many challenges concerning both physical and mental dimensions. The study of the interplay between these two dimensions is crucial to provide the necessary care for this population. Objectives This study aims to evaluate the prevalence of back pain and its association with mental health issues in young medical practitioners. Methods A cross-sectional study (January to April 2023) was conducted in the university interns and residents from Sfax. The Nordic questionnaire was used to evaluate back pain. The Generalized-Anxiety-Disorder (GAD -7) and the Patient-Health-Questionnaire (PHQ-9) were used to assess signs of anxiety and depression respectively. Results Our population consisted of 404 young doctors. One-hundred and twenty were males with a sex-ratio of 0.42. Among them, 76 (18.8%) had surgical specialties. Mean age was 28.03±2.89, BMI’s mean was 23.65±3.98. Medical history was reported by 29.2% and psychiatric history by 4.9%. The median of the PHQ-9 and GAD-7 score were 3.5 (IQ: [1;6]) and 2 (IQ: [0; 5]). Signs of depression were found in 11.1% of the population whereas anxiety was found in 8.4% of them. Sixty-seven residents (16.6%) reported having back pain in the previous year. Neck pain, upper-back pain and lower back pain were experienced by 8.7%, 6.4% and 10.1% respectively. Bivariate analysis showed that back pain was associated with PHQ-9 score (p=0.006), GAD-7 score (p=0.018) and it was not associated with BMI (p=0.769) neither with surgical specialties (p=0.824). Lower Back pain was associated with GAD-7 score (p=0.004). Conclusions Our study highlights the link between back pain and mental health problems in young doctors. Interventions englobing a better understanding of these two facets are needed to ensure an optimal care for this young population. Disclosure of Interest None Declared

Introduction Low back pain (LBP) is a serious threat to electricians. It is well known that LBP is associated with physical strain. But the impact of psychological workload on the occurrence of LBP needs further investigation. Objectives This study aimed to assess the link between LBP and perceived psychological workload among electricians. Methods The study was conducted with a sample of workers from a Tunisian Electricity society. Data were gathered between January-June 2022 using a self-administered questionnaire including socio-professional characteristics and the Nordic musculoskeletal questionnaire during the last 12 months and the last 7 days. To assess the perceived workload, we used the National Aeronautics and Space Administration Task Load Index (NASA-TLX). In this study, we evaluated raw NASA-TLX scores. Results Our study included 68 male electricians. The mean age was 39.2 ± 10.3 years. The average job tenure was 16± 11.4 years. According to the Nordic musculoskeletal questionnaire, 32.4% of participants reported low back pain during the last 12 months. Thirty participants (19.1%) had low back pain during the last 7 days. The mean score of mental demand, physical demand, performance, effort, frustration level and temporal demand were respectively 88.2±14.3, 61.1±24, 84.8±13.3, 82.6±14.5, 35.8±29.2 and 60.4±28.8. The frustration level was associated with the presence of LBP during the last 12 months and the last 7 days (p

Introduction Low back pain (LBP) is common among electricians caused by work conditions. Even when symptoms are short-term and not medically serious, LBP can be associated with psychological distress. Objectives This study aimed to assess the link between LBP and psychological distress according to the job tenure among electricians. Methods The study was conducted in a group from a Tunisian Electricity society. Data were gathered between January-June 2022 using a self-administered questionnaire including socio-professional characteristics, the Nordic musculoskeletal questionnaire during the last 12 months and Kessler Psychological Distress Scale (K6). Our population was divided into two groups according to job tenure. The first group (G1) consisted of electricians with less than ten years of job tenure and the second (G2) consisted of electricians with more than ten years of seniority. Results G1 consisted of 10 participants with a mean age of 30.6 ± 6.7 years and with average job tenure of 3.3 ± 1.1 years. G2 consisted of 64 participants with a mean age of 40.7 ± 10.3 years and average job tenure of 17.4 ± 10.9 years. According to the Nordic musculoskeletal questionnaire, LBP during the last 12 months was present in the first and the second group in 30.8% and 14.3% of participants, respectively. The proportion of respondents with high levels of psychological distress (K6 score of 13 or greater) in the first and the second groups was 10 % and 9.4% of participants, respectively. The presence of low back pain during the last 12 months was significantly associated with a high score of K6 in the second group (p < 0.05). Conclusions From the results of this study, we conclude that LBP was associated with psychological distress when the job tenure is high. Therefore, the prevention of LBP should go through programmes to build ergonomically safe working conditions to enhance the mental health of electricians. Disclosure of Interest None Declared

The aim of the present in vitro study was to evaluate specific mechanical and physicochemical properties of three calcium silicate-based sealers, BioRoot™ Flow (BRF), CeraSeal (CRS) and TotalFill® (TF). Samples were prepared to evaluate different physicochemical and mechanical properties of the tested sealers. These evaluations were accomplished by investigating the pH changes over time, porosity, roughness, flow properties, compressive strength and wettability. The results were statistically evaluated using one-way analysis of variance. All three sealers demonstrated an alkaline pH from 1 h of immersion in water to 168 h. A higher porosity and hydrophily were detected in BRF samples compared to CRS and TF. No significant difference was found between the tested materials in the flow properties. Lower compressive strength values were observed for BRF compared to TF and CRS. Differently shaped structures were detected on the three materials after 7 days of immersion in PBS. The three materials demonstrated a higher solubility than 3% after 24 h of immersion in water (CRS < BRF < TF). The novel premixed calcium silicate sealer (BRF) had comparable physicochemical properties to the existing sealers. The lower compressive strength values could facilitate the removal of these materials during retreatment procedures. Further studies should investigate the biological effects of the novel sealer.

ABSTRACTVitiligo is a multifactorial dermatosis with many etiological hypotheses that have been suggested for its occurrence. To our knowledge, few epidemiological studies are available on vitiligo induction factors and particularly on the role of exposure to chemicals in the onset of the disease has been found. Therefore, there is need to investigate the relationship between vitiligo and chemical exposures in order to understand this mysterious disease. We conducted a case–control study of patients with vitiligo whose diagnosis was made by a specialist in dermatology. The total study period was of 6 months extending from 1 July to 31 December 2019. The minimum sample size was determined as 46 cases and 92 controls. The control group was gender, age, and professional status matched to the vitiligo group. In the binary logistic regression model, household chemicals/colored toothpaste use, a history of a repeated antibiotic use, and an occupational exposure to phenol/catechol derivatives were significantly associated with vitiligo (three to fourfold increase). Our results suggest that chemical factors play a key role in the occurrence of vitiligo. Therefore, prevention of this dermatosis requires the identification of exposure to the incriminated chemicals in any patient followed for vitiligo. The earlier the diagnosis of ‘chemical’ or chemically aggravated vitiligo, the better the prognosis for this disease.