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It has become important for nurses to implement self-leadership and exercise critical thinking in problem-solving to address the health issues of patients. This has led to a need for nursing education programs in which nursing students learn to embrace self-leadership and self-evaluation approaches to develop their skills. Within 260 nursing undergraduates with experience in simulation practice as study subjects, a self-reporting survey was conducted on self-leadership, goal commitment, critical thinking, and problem-solving skills. An analysis was conducted using the SPSS/WIN 21.0 program. t-test and ANOVA were conducted to validate the difference between problem-solving abilities. Multiple regression was conducted to examine the impact of these variables on problem-solving skills. The variables of religion, satisfaction with major, goal commitment, and critical thinking were found to have a significant impact on problem-solving abilities. The results were as follows: critical thinking (β = 0.36, p < 0.05), goal commitment (β = 0.28, p < 0.05), and explanatory power of 41%. To improve the nursing undergraduates’ problem-solving abilities through simulation practice, there needs to be a method that supports them in setting goals with self-leadership and enhance goal commitment. The method also needs to support the development of their critical thinking and curiosity for questions deriving from experiencing diverse programs in order to deliver effective outcomes.

This study examined the determinants of perceived accessibility of maternity leave and childcare leave in South Korea. Although maternity leave and childcare leave are mandated in Korea, many employees are hesitant to use the policies. The purpose of this study was to empirically examine why some women are more likely than others to perceive the policies as inaccessible and to identify what those women’s characteristics are. The results revealed that nonregular workers were significantly less likely than regular workers with secure contracts to perceive the policies as accessible even though they were eligible for them. In addition, workers who worked in the private sector, did not belong to a labor union, worked in small firms, or worked long hours were significantly less likely to perceive the policies as accessible than those who worked in the public sector, belonged to a labor union, worked in large firms, or worked short hours. Further, workers with low salaries were significantly less likely than workers with high salaries to perceive the policies as accessible. The study underscores that accessibility of leave policies in Korea is significantly correlated with women’s employment status and wage level in the labor market.

This study aimed to develop an emerging infectious disease (COVID-19) simulation module for nursing students and verify its effectiveness.A one-group pretest-posttest quasi-experimental study was conducted with 78 under-graduate nursing students. A simulation module was developed based on the Jeffries simulation model. It consisted of pre-simulation lectures on disaster nursing including infectious disease pandemics, practice, and debriefings with serial tests. The scenarios contained pre-hospital settings, home visits, arrival to the emergency department, and follow-up home visits for rehabilitation.Disaster preparedness showed a statistically significant improvement, as did competencies in disaster nursing. Confidence in disaster nursing increased, as did willingness to participate in disaster response. However, critical thinking did not show significant differences between time points, and neither did triage scores.The developed simulation program targeting an infectious disease disaster positively impacts disaster preparedness, disaster nursing competency, and confidence in disaster nursing, among nursing students. Further studies are required to develop a high-fidelity module for nursing students and medical personnel. Based on the current pandemic, we suggest developing more scenarios with virtual reality simulations, as disaster simulation nursing education is required now more than ever.

Background: Scoping reviews of the literature on the development and application of mental health apps based on theoretical suggestions are lacking. This study systematically examines studies on the effects and results of mental health mobile apps for the general adult population. Methods: Following PICOs (population, intervention, comparison, outcome, study design), a general form of scoping review was adopted. From January 2010 to December 2019, we selected the effects of mental health-related apps and intervention programs provided by mobile to the general adult population over the age of 18. Additionally, evaluation of methodological quality was assessed using the Scottish Intercollegiate Guidelines Network (SIGN) checklist. Results: Fourteen studies were analyzed of 1205 that were identified; duplicate and matching studies were excluded. One was a descriptive study and 13 were experimental, of which randomized control trials (RCTs) accounted for 71.4%. Four of the mobile apps were developed based on cognitive behavior theory, one based on stress theory, and one on ecological instant intervention theory. These apps included breathing training, meditation, and music therapy. Stress, depression, and anxiety decreased using these apps, and some were effective for well-being. Conclusion: With the rapid development of technology related to mental health, many mobile apps are developed, but apps based on theoretical knowledge and well-designed research are lacking. Further research and practices should be conducted to develop, test, and disseminate evidence-based mHealth for mental health promotion. RCT studies are needed to expand the application to mental health services to various populations.

Purpose: There has been a recent surge in interest in mental health and how to improve individuals’ health-related quality of life. Mental health management using mobile apps can be a useful intervention method. The development and application of verified and highly efficient apps for mental health and stress management are needed. We developed healing programs and verified their effectiveness based on apps designed to promote adult mental health. Methods: We conducted a one-group pretest-posttest study in which 85 participants used the app for 12 weeks. We assessed its effects on participants’ stress (perceived stress scale, effort–reward imbalance, and photoplethysmogram (PPG)), anxiety, depression, emotional labor, and well-being. Results: The stress survey results post-intervention increased or stayed the same, however, the PPG results decreased (p = 0.002) after using the app. Depression (p = 0.043) and anxiety (p = 0.003) also decreased, however, emotional labor and well-being remained unchanged. The awareness of, knowledge of, and attitude toward mental health management all increased post-intervention. Discussion: The developed mobile app was an efficient and highly accessible way to promote mental health. However, the app requires modification and supplementation for continual use. Additionally, ongoing research concerning the study, evaluation, and integration of mobile apps is required.

(1) Background: This study aims to investigate the impact of emotional labor and workplace violence on sleep disturbance, depression, and health status in workers. (2) Methods: Data from 34,742 participants of the 2011&ndash, 2014 Korean Working Conditions Survey were included in this study. We compared the incidence of sleep disturbance, depression, and health status according to emotional labor and workplace violence and used logistic regression to analyze factors that affect health status. (3) Results: Emotional laborers were more likely to experience sleep disturbance, depression and anxiety, and muscle pain. Workers who have experienced workplace violence were more likely to experience depression and anxiety, abdominal pain, and sleep disturbance. (4) Conclusion: Emotional labor and workplace violence have a grave impact on physical and mental health, with particularly greater effects on mental health. In addition, workplace violence has a greater health impact than emotional labor. The findings of this study suggest the need to implement programs that stabilize and heal workers who have experienced emotional labor and to enforce regulations and policies to protect workers from verbal and physical abuse.

Contextual factors are associated with risks of cardiovascular disease (CVD) perceived by personnel employed in small&ndash, medium-sized workplaces. In an ecological model, data collection and analysis were undertaken, stratified by intrapersonal, interpersonal, and organizational contexts of blue-collar workers. Data were collected in face-to-face (n = 36) and focus group (n = 4) interviews and subjected to qualitative content analysis, to generate three main themes, 10 generic categories and 18 sub-categories. At the intrapersonal level, &ldquo, physical burden&rdquo, &ldquo, burn out due to overtime work&rdquo, no time to take care of health because of family responsibility&rdquo, and &ldquo, lack of recognition and knowledge of CVD risks&rdquo, were derived from the individual interviews. At the interpersonal level, &ldquo, stress of possible job losses&rdquo, dislike of stigmatization of unhealthy persons&rdquo, smoking and drinking to reduce relationship stress&rdquo, unhealthy work environment&rdquo, differed by level of risk perception. &ldquo, Preferred economic value&rdquo, lack of understanding about importance of CVD management of an employer&rdquo, emerged at the organizational level. Factors that influence CVD risks among workers in small&ndash, medium-sized business were present at the multiple levels. Therefore, healthcare providers in the field of occupational health should consider CVD risks in the context of blue-collar workers and organizational level for health-promotion programs.

This study aimed to evaluate child health needs in South Korea and the country's healthcare system capacities to meet them. A comprehensive needs assessment was performed by reviewing child health programs in Korea, followed by focus group discussions and individual interviews with multiple health experts and practitioners. Analysis of the meeting and interview transcripts were identified seven major domains of child health needs and healthcare system capacities. Comparison of child health needs and healthcare system capacities revealed that a much-needed linkage system between child health resources and preventive healthcare services is lacking. A new government policy to integrate current child health programs with high-quality preventive care is required.

Purpose: Developing and evaluating a simulation scenario for community nursing practicum students.Design: One group, pretest posttest design with 87 nursing students.Methods: Data were collected through questionnaires. The simulation was based on Jeffries' simulation model and used a standardized patient.Findings: Self-efficacy and critical thinking increased with the developed simulation. Positive correlations were identified among critical thinking, learning effectiveness, and self-efficacy.Conclusions: The home-visit simulation scenario was effective in providing students with a problem-solving experience in conditions similar to reality.Clinical Evidence: Further research is needed to develop various types of community simulation scenarios to enhance competency for community health practice.

This study examined the health promotion model (HPM) as a framework for assessing perceptions and health-related behaviors related to cardiovascular disease (CVD) risk among blue-collar workers. This was done with the aim of providing time-sensitive educational and training materials for workers while on the job or functioning in their communities. The revised HPM was evaluated in the above context using specific criteria developed by Chinn and Kramer (2008) and scoping literature review. Specifically, we assessed the model based on five criteria such as its clarity, simplicity, generality, accessibility, and importance. The revised HPM showed strengths in both accessibility and generality. That is, it applied to all populations and chronic illnesses through clearly defined and specified major concepts. However, there were several weaknesses in areas of clarity and consistency; the model included three new concepts (i.e., activity-related affect, commitment to a plan of action, and immediate competing demands and preference) that actually decreased these elements. In this context, situational influences require adequately reflected external variables. Nevertheless, the revised HPM showed predictive power among this study's target population. The HPM was modified to address deficiencies in regard to the concept of risk perception. Work-related situational influences were also restructured based on individual and environmental characteristics. The modified framework can be used to clarify health-related behaviors among blue-collar workers.

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This study constructed and tested a structural equation model on clinical nurses' emotional labor, job satisfaction, and job performance based on Grandey's emotion regulation model.We performed a correlational study to predict the relationship between the following variables: emotional labor (surface and deep acting), job satisfaction, job performance, self-efficacy, emotional intelligence, display rules, job autonomy, social support, and job stress.Our hypothetical model was based on Grandey's emotional regulation model and on a literature review of emotional labor, job satisfaction, and job performance. Structured questionnaires were distributed to participants who worked in seven general hospitals with no less than 300 beds in a province, South Korea. We analyzed 424 questionnaires and used AMOS 23 to explore the relationships between the constructs.Our model fit the data well (χWe confirmed that display rules, emotional intelligence, job stress, self-efficacy, and job autonomy are important factors that could decrease nurses' emotional labor and increase their job satisfaction and performance. These findings support the development and application of various interventions to decrease emotional labor and increase job satisfaction and job performance among nurses.This study filled the need for an integrated structural equation model of emotional labor. With this model, we found that emotional labor operates differently in nursing practice than in other service fields. As such, this model can help hospital management to adjust their customer service guidelines to improve nurses' job satisfaction and performance.

Although health apps have been developed and utilized in many countries, there is no baseline study about what percentage of Korean workers use these types of health apps. Therefore, the purpose of this study was to describe the work-related stress, health status, and utilization of health apps of Korean adult workers. This descriptive study included 95 adults in South Korea. Demographic variables, work-related stress, health status, and utilization of health apps were obtained using an online self-reported survey. Descriptive analyses were used to explore prevalence of each variable. This study found that almost 65% of the participants fell into the higher work-related stress group. About 41.6% of the participants in this sample evaluated their general health status as fair to poor with 26.8% being overweight to obese and 11.6% having hypertension. However, only about 33.7% of the sample have used health apps. Therefore, utilization of health apps as health and stress management tools should be encouraged at a public health level.

The Effort Reward Imbalance tool is a measure of psychosocial work characteristics used to identify work-related stress. The purpose of this study was to assess the reliability and validity of the Korean version of the effort-reward imbalance–short form (ERI-SF) in industrial workers. The Korean version of ERI-SF was tested among 250 blue-collar workers. The reliability, content validity, and construct validity with confirmatory factor analysis, as well as interaction terms were analyzed. Reliability assessed by Cronbach’s alpha coefficients were satisfactory for all three subscales: effort 0.75, reward 0.74, and over-commitment 0.72. Confirmatory factor analysis showed an acceptable model fit with the three component theoretical structure (root mean square error of approximation = 0.07, comparative fit index = 0.84). Content validity was assessed with respect to a measure of perceived health. In addition, a significant synergistic interaction of ERI and over-commitment on job strain was found. In conclusion, the ERI-SF demonstrated good psychometric properties with Korean industrial workers. The ERI-SF is ideal for examining work-related stress in the workplace by occupational health professionals. This shorter version makes it easier to administer and score in the occupational health setting.

This study developed and evaluated a health management program based on the participant-centered concept of action research to reduce cardiovascular disease (CVD) risk factors among blue collar workers. Data from structured questionnaires completed by 32 workers in a small-to-medium sized workplace from September 2015 to October 2016 as well as participants&rsquo, anthropometrical (weight and waist) and biological (blood pressure, glucose, total cholesterol, triglyceride, high-density lipoprotein (HDL), and low-density lipoprotein (LDL) cholesterol) data were analyzed using paired t-test and Fisher&rsquo, s exact test. To examine the longitudinal effect of the intervention, survival analysis and linear mixed model (LMM) were used. There was an improvement in participants&rsquo, self-regulation in maintaining health-promoting behaviors, body weight, blood pressure, and HDL cholesterol following the intervention. Furthermore, the effects of the health management program continued even after the program ended. These findings suggest that the health management program developed in this study could be effective in reducing CVD risk factors among workers in small-to-medium sized workplaces and should be applied to other small-to-medium sized workplaces to foster health-promoting behaviors.

Despite worldwide efforts, maternal and child mortality remains a major health problem in many developing countries. Cambodia&rsquo, s maternal mortality rate has decreased over recent years through government efforts and support from various international development cooperation agencies. The purpose of this study was to investigate the factors that affected the accessibility of Cambodia&rsquo, s maternal healthcare services. Data from maternal health service surveys conducted in Battambang, Cambodia in 2012 and 2015 were compared and analyzed. Multiple regression analysis was conducted to identify factors related to the accessibility of integrated maternal healthcare service. The travel time to health centers was found to be related to distance from the health center (&szlig, = 0.031, p &lt, 0.001), travel time during the rainy season (&szlig, = 0.166, p &lt, 0.001), and travel cost (&szlig, = 0.001, p &lt, 0.001), with an explanatory power of 27% (R2 = 0.274). Based on these findings, future research and policy should focus on improving accessibility to effective maternal and child healthcare services, to reduce maternal and child mortality. This study is intended to contribute to developing a multi-directional and integrated strategy for access to maternal health services in developing countries.

Through a numerical analytical approach based on piezoelectric analysis and meta-modeling, this study investigated the effect of the component design of an accelerometer sensor on sensitivity and resonance frequency. The results of the study confirmed that the resonance frequency obtained from the piezoelectric analysis was almost the same as the experimental value of the resonance frequency obtained from the fabricated sensing module and proved the validity of the piezoelectric analysis using a finite element method. Moreover, the results of examining the influence of the component design on the resonance frequency and electrical potential suggested that the diameter and height of the head (seismic mass) had the greatest influence. As the diameter and height of the head increased, the sensitivity increased, but the resonance frequency decreased, which indicates that it is necessary to select an appropriate mass to optimize the sensor performance. In addition, the increase in tail height and epoxy thickness had a positive effect on both the resonance frequency and electric potential, and the base diameter had a negative effect on both of them.

The purpose of this study was to evaluate the effects of a yoga program provided to workers in small businesses to reduce cardiovascular disease (CVD) risk factors. A nonequivalent control group pre/post-test design was used. The experimental group (n = 31) was assigned a yoga program consisting of yoga postures designed for meditation, strengthening, stretching, and balancing, given twice weekly for 12 weeks. The control group (n = 38) was given no other intervention. The mean age was 48.1 years old in the experimental group and 47.7 years old in the control group. Three trained investigators collected the questionnaires and one month after completing the 12-week yoga program, the same questionnaires that were administered at baseline were again administered. Psychosocial variables (depressive symptoms and job stress), health promotion behaviors, and body measurements (weight and waist circumference) were measured for the program evaluation. The yoga program was effective in improving waist circumference (from 81.8 to 79.2, p &lt, 0.001) and diastolic blood pressure (from 81.0 to 79.1, p = 0.004) as compared to the control group. Furthermore, the experimental group&rsquo, s job stress score decreased from 1.38 to 1.02, but it was not statistically significant (p = 0.240). A yoga program could be a useful intervention for workers with CVD risk factors, but it was not effective in psychological factors such as job stress and depression. A long-term intervention approach is important to confirm the psychosocial effect. Therefore, future research is needed to investigate the long-term outcomes of such interventions.

This study examined the effect of lifestyle interventions on cardiovascular disease risk factors among workers. The study comprised a systematic review and meta-analysis of controlled trials. Relevant controlled trials were searched, with selections based on the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses (PRISMA) guidelines. Risk of bias was assessed using the Scottish Intercollegiate Guidelines Network (SIGN). Of 1174 identified publications, one low-quality study was excluded. Finally, 10 were analyzed. The effect sizes were analyzed for heterogeneity, and random effect models (Hedge’s g) were used. A subgroup analysis was performed on the follow-up point of intervention (≤ 12 months vs. > 12 months). Publication bias was also analyzed. Interventions were effective for systolic (g = 0.66, 95% CI: 0.27-1.60) and diastolic blood pressure (g = 0.63, 95% CI: 0.21–1.06), and BMI (g = 0.71, 95% CI: 0.15-1.11). Interventions were ineffective for weight (g = 0.18, 95% CI: −0.04, 0.40) and LDL-cholesterol (g = 0.46, 95% CI: −0.02, 0.93). There was high heterogeneity between studies (I2 =78.45 to I2 = 94.61). There was no statistically significant publication bias, except for systolic blood pressure. Interventions to reduce risk of cardiovascular disease risk might be effective in improving physical outcomes, but additional high-quality trials are needed in the future.

Purpose: The purpose of this study was to describe the intervention model development of health promotion for women workers working in the traditional marketplace, using community capacity building framework. Methods: Need assessment of the target population, work-related environment investigation, social network group building, and setting health management in the marketplace were performed. Then the interventions including cardiovascular health, musculoskeletal health, and psychological health were conducted. The results were evaluated using NCEP-ATP III(National Cholesterol Education Program's Adult Treatment Panel III), OWAS, and CES-D. Results: It was found that the intervention program for the vulnerable group in marketplace was appropriate, promoting the improvement of metabolic syndrome and the reduction of pain complaints. Therefore, the intervention framework for health promotion of women workers in the marketplace was developed. Work-related environment assessment also was included in the framework development. Several community capacity building strategies, including developing community resources and promoting partnership, making small social network group, and promoting program participation. Conclusion: It is suggested that occupational health nurses and professionals consider the appropriateness of intervention framework development after identifying the needs of women workers’ work-related environmental problems.

Background: Depression is one of the psychiatric diseases with a high prevalence rate, globally, and reportedly more prevalent among women than among men. Especially, women workers working at traditional markets are in depressive conditions without occupational health services. The purpose of this study is to investigate factors having a significant effect on the depressive symptoms of women workers at traditional markets in South Korea. Methods: A cross-sectional study was used and subjects for the present study were 500 female workers in three selected representative traditional marketplaces in South Korea. Results: The results of hierarchical regression analysis indicated that increased BMI (β = 0.297, p = 0.017), poor nutritional status (β = 0.596, p < 0.001), street vendor status (β = 2.589, p = 0.001), job stress (β = 0.491, p < 0.001), lower back pain (β = 0.377, p = 0.011), lower self-efficacy (β = −0.368, p = 0.002) and diminished family function (β = −0.633, p = 0.001) affected workers’ depressive symptoms. The explanatory power of these variables was 38.5%. Conclusions: Based on these results, future research should focus on incorporating theses significant factors into effective interventions designed to decrease depressive symptoms in this population. Moreover, this study will increase interest in occupational health nursing, particularly in relation to vulnerable social groups, and expand the scope of practice in the field.

The purpose of this concept analysis was to clarify the meaning and the attributes of traditional Korean (Hanbang) nursing.Data sources include Academic Search Complete, Allied and Complementary Medicine Database, EBSCOhost, PubMed, MEDLINE, and Research Information Sharing Service.We used Walker and Avant's method to analyze the concept of Hanbang nursing.By exploring its common use in the literature, a comprehensive definition of the concept of Hanbang nursing was developed.The results of analyzing the current concept of Hanbang nursing will help provide a better understanding of it and contribute to expanding nursing knowledge and developing of a valid and reliable measurement.

Internet addiction, especially its prevalence among adolescents and its predictors, has been the focus of much research. Few studies have investigated gender differences in the relationship between Internet addiction and psychological health among adolescents. The present study investigated gender differences in Internet addiction associated with self-rated health, subjective happiness, and depressive symptoms among Korean adolescents aged 12 to 18 years using a nationally representative dataset. Data from 56,086 students (28,712 boys and 27,374 girls) from 400 middle schools and 400 high schools were analyzed. We found that 2.8 % of the students (3.6 % boys and 1.9 % girls) were addicted users, and the prevalence of Internet addiction was higher in boys than in girls. In multiple logistic regression analysis, three psychological health indicators including poor self-rated health, subjective unhappiness, and depressive symptoms were significantly related with Internet addiction in boys and girls. Girls with emotional difficulties such as subjective unhappiness or depressive symptoms had much higher risks of Internet addiction than did boys with similar problems. Further attention should be given to developing Internet addiction prevention and intervention programs that are tailored to fit boys’ and girls’ different needs.

Improving mental healthcare using mobile apps might be an effective way to increase interest in mental health and respond to the demand for better psychological health. However, few studies have investigated the effectiveness of app-based stress-management programs. This study aimed to assess the efficacy of an app-based stress-management program. A non-equivalent comparison group pretest-posttest design was used. Participants were randomized into the experimental (n = 26) and control (n = 30) groups. The experimental group used an application developed for workers for four weeks. The results indicated that stress, emotional labor, self-efficacy, and well-being were significantly different in the experimental group, but the control group&rsquo, s average scores did not change significantly. On average, the Perceived Stress Scale scores decreased by 1.5 points (p = 0.035) and the Korean Occupational Stress Scale scores decreased by 0.87 points (p = 0.4). However, depression and anxiety were not significantly different. Emotional labor decreased by 0.16 points (p = 0.027), and well-being and self-efficacy mean scores increased by 0.492 (p = 0.005) and 0.162 (p = 0.025), respectively. These findings support the developed application&rsquo, s value for promoting mental health and healthy lifestyles. Further research and supplementation are needed for the application&rsquo, s sustainability.

Actual cardiovascular disease (CVD) risk and related factors among blue collar workers employed by small businesses were investigated. This cross-sectional study of 238 Korean blue collar workers used surveys, anthropometric and blood pressure measurements, and blood sampling for lipid and glucose levels to answer the research questions. Multiple regression techniques were used to analyze study data. The prevalence of actual CVD risk among blue collar workers was 32 cases per 100 workers. A multiple regression model showed that a combination of individual, psychosocial, and work-related factors explained 34% of the variance in actual CVD risk. The significant predictors of actual CVD risk included knowledge of CVD risk, risk perception, job stress, and waist-to-hip ratio. It is important for clinicians to consider all of these significant predictors of actual CVD risk when designing an intervention program to reduce CVD among Korean blue collar workers.

The purposes of this study were to estimate the prevalence of metabolic syndrome and to investigate the risk factors associated with metabolic syndrome in Korean workers. This is a secondary data analysis study using the data set from the Korean National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey IV. A total of 1,545 workers over 20 yr of age were included in this analysis. The prevalence of metabolic syndrome was determined using the modified National Cholesterol Education Program Adult Treatment Panel III criteria. Waist circumference was based on the study of obesity guidelines. The overall prevalence of metabolic syndrome among Korean workers was 21.0% (28.5% men, 11.8% women). In a multiple logistic regression analysis, male workers with high job control and heavy alcohol consumption were significantly associated with metabolic syndrome. For women, low job control and current smoking increased the risk of metabolic syndrome. The risk of developing metabolic syndrome is strongly associated with level of job control in both male and female workers. These findings suggest that behavioral lifestyle modifications, including smoking cessation, moderating alcohol consumption, and controlling work-related factors and job control in the workplace should be considered for the prevention and management of metabolic syndrome in Korean workers.

Exposure to radon gas is the second most common cause of lung cancer after smoking. A large number of studies have reported that exposure to indoor radon, even at low concentrations, is associated with lung cancer in the general population. This paper reviewed studies from several countries to assess the attributable risk (AR) of lung cancer death due to indoor radon exposure and the effect of radon mitigation thereon. Worldwide, 3-20 % of all lung cancer deaths are likely caused by indoor radon exposure. These values tend to be higher in countries reporting high radon concentrations, which can depend on the estimation method. The estimated number of lung cancer deaths due to radon exposure in several countries varied from 150 to 40,477 annually. In general, the percent ARs were higher among never-smokers than among ever-smokers, whereas much more lung cancer deaths attributable to radon occurred among ever-smokers because of the higher rate of lung cancers among smokers. Regardless of smoking status, the proportion of lung cancer deaths induced by radon was slightly higher among females than males. However, after stratifying populations according to smoking status, the percent ARs were similar between genders. If all homes with radon above 100 Bq/m(3) were effectively remediated, studies in Germany and Canada found that 302 and 1704 lung cancer deaths could be prevented each year, respectively. These estimates, however, are subject to varying degrees of uncertainty related to the weakness of the models used and a number of factors influencing indoor radon concentrations.

Aim: The purposes of this study were to examine the relationship between psychosocial factors and metabolic syndrome among male and female blue-collar workers, and which factors influence their metabolic syndrome by sex. Methods: A cross-sectional study was completed of 154 men and 80 women working at small companies in Korea. The data were collected through a structured questionnaire, blood test, and anthropometric and blood pressure measure. Metabolic syndrome was diagnosed from the results of blood test and the measurements of waist circumference and blood pressure. Results: The prevalence of metabolic syndrome among male and female blue-collar workers was 24.0% and 7.5%, respectively. Multiple logistic regression analysis was performed to examine factors of metabolic syndrome associated with sex. After controlling for age, marital status, smoking, alcohol drinking, shift work, overtime work, and physical exercise, job stress (odds ratio [OR] = 3.10, P = 0.005) and risk perception (OR = 1.12, P = 0.016) were influencing factors for men, and low job stress (OR = 0.05, P = 0.04), low social support (OR = 1.51, P = 0.009), and risk perception (OR = 1.27, P = 0.023) for women. Conclusion: Metabolic syndrome among blue-collar workers is closely related to psychosocial factors, such as job stress, social support, and risk perception, with the effect of job stress a point of difference between men and women. Occupational health nurses should be cognizant of the importance of assessing the effect of psychosocial factors on cardiovascular risk for blue-collar workers.

Background Overweight and obesity in children with intellectual disabilities may be a major health threat. The purpose of this study was to examine the prevalence of overweight and obesity in Korean children with intellectual disabilities aged 7–18 years who did not have specific genetic syndromes or physical disabilities. Materials and methods Participants were 2,404 children with intellectual disabilities aged 7–18 years attending thirteen special schools in Korea. Data from school health records were analysed using SAS (version 9.2). The differences between boys and girls were assessed for children’s height and weight using t-tests and for children’s age and weight status, such as using Chi-Square (χ2) test. The relationships between children’s weight status, age and gender were reassessed using Chi-Square (χ2) test, and strengths of the relationships were measured using Gamma coefficient. Results Approximately one-quarter of children with intellectual disabilities were either overweight or obese. Children’s gender was significantly associated with their weight status, such that overweight and obesity were more prevalent in girls than in boys, specifically girls aged 15–18 years. There was a positive relationship between age and the prevalence of overweight and obesity in children for both boys and girls. Conclusions The high rates of overweight and obesity in children with intellectual disabilities highlight the need for interventions to help children achieve healthy weight. Before conducting weight management interventions, identifying risk factors that influence weight status in children with intellectual disabilities is an important step.

One of the overriding goals of Healthy People 2010 is to reduce the health disparities observed among Americans. Because workers in small businesses tend to have little or no access to health screening or preventive health education programs, they may be unaware of their unique risk factors and are thus more at risk of cardiovascular disease (CVD). Furthermore, occupational health nurses are more likely to be available in health programs to employees in large rather than small businesses. The purpose of this paper is to illustrate how nursing values and philosophy might influence public health nurses' thinking about nursing science and ethical issues relating to the risk of CVD among low-wage workers. The following questions will guide the exploration of health disparities among low-wage workers: (a) What are the health disparities observed among low-wage workers with CVD risk? (b) What are the philosophical and ethical perspectives on the issues presented? (c) Based on these findings, how should limited resources be allocated? and (d) How does this affect nursing? These approaches will provide the foundation for developing a culturally sensitive ethical and philosophical perspective to prevent CVD and promote cardiovascular health among low-wage workers.

Street dust is a hazard for workers in traditional markets. Exposure time is longer than for other people, making them vulnerable to heavy metals in street dust. This study investigated heavy metal concentrations in street dust samples collected from different types of markets. It compared the results with heavy metal concentrations in heavy traffic and rural areas. Street dust was significantly enriched with most heavy metals in a heavy traffic area while street dust from a fish market was contaminated with cupper (Cu), lead (Pb) and zinc (Zn). Street dust from medicinal herb and fruit markets, and rural areas were not contaminated. Principal component and cluster analyses indicated heavy metals in heavy traffic road and fish market dust had different sources. Relatively high heavy metal concentration in street dust from the fish market may negatively affect worker’s mental health, as depression levels were higher compared with workers in other markets. Therefore, intensive investigation of the relationship between heavy metal concentrations in street dust and worker’s health in traditional marketplaces should be conducted to elucidate the effect of heavy metals on psychological health in humans.

Purpose: The purpose of this study was to investigate individual and organizational level of cardiovascular disease (CVD) risk factors associated with CVD risk in Korean blue-collar workers working in small sized companies. Methods: Self-report questionnaires and blood sampling for lipid and glucose were collected from 492 workers in 31 small sized companies in Korea. Multilevel modeling was conducted to estimate effects of related factors at the individual and organizational level. Results: Multilevel regression analysis showed that workers in the workplace having a cafeteria had 1.81 times higher CVD risk after adjusting for factors at the individual level (p =.022). The explanatory power of variables related to organizational level variances in CVD risk was 17.1%. Conclusion: The results of this study indicate that differences in the CVD risk were related to organizational factors. It is necessary to consider not only individual factors but also organizational factors when planning a CVD risk reduction program. The factors caused by having cafeteria in the workplace can be reduced by improvement in the CVD-related risk environment, therefore an organizational-level intervention approach should be available to reduce CVD risk of workers in small sized companies in Korea.

Double-deck train has been attracted growing attention as next generation transportation around metropolis because of high passenger carrying capacity. To develop high-speed double-deck train with low operational costs, the carbody must be designed as light as possible. In addition, the carbody must be strong enough to ensure the safety of passengers. To meet these design requirements, we perform systematically weight minimization that determines thickness of aluminum extruded panels of the carbody. First, to reduce the design variables, we carry out the screening process that select sensitive or/and important design variables through design exploration. Then, weight minimization is accomplished under multi-loading condition such as vertical, compressive and torsional loads, while satisfying strength constraints of the design regulations. Finally, the result of design optimization is discussed by comparison with its initial design.

This study was aimed at evaluating the durability of the car body for rubber-tired light rail vehicles according to Korean-standardized specifications for light rail vehicles (size, strength, structure, weight, etc.). The strengths of the car body were analyzed under two weight conditions (tare weight and maximum passenger weight) by using the finite element method. Based on the results of the analysis, dynamic stresses were measured by using strain gauges, including rosette gauges, while the train was running on the test track. Various experimental results have verified the durability and safety of the car body.

The purposes of this study were to examine the relationship between psychosocial factors and metabolic syndrome among male and female blue-collar workers, and which factors influence their metabolic syndrome by sex.A cross-sectional study was completed of 154 men and 80 women working at small companies in Korea. The data were collected through a structured questionnaire, blood test, and anthropometric and blood pressure measure. Metabolic syndrome was diagnosed from the results of blood test and the measurements of waist circumference and blood pressure.The prevalence of metabolic syndrome among male and female blue-collar workers was 24.0% and 7.5%, respectively. Multiple logistic regression analysis was performed to examine factors of metabolic syndrome associated with sex. After controlling for age, marital status, smoking, alcohol drinking, shift work, overtime work, and physical exercise, job stress (odds ratio [OR] = 3.10, P = 0.005) and risk perception (OR = 1.12, P = 0.016) were influencing factors for men, and low job stress (OR = 0.05, P = 0.04), low social support (OR = 1.51, P = 0.009), and risk perception (OR = 1.27, P = 0.023) for women.Metabolic syndrome among blue-collar workers is closely related to psychosocial factors, such as job stress, social support, and risk perception, with the effect of job stress a point of difference between men and women. Occupational health nurses should be cognizant of the importance of assessing the effect of psychosocial factors on cardiovascular risk for blue-collar workers.

Palliative care is an important element of holistic care but has received little attention in cardiac disease patients. The purpose of the paper is (a) to investigate nurses' knowledge of palliative care, attitudes toward care of the dying, coping with death, and preparedness to practice palliative care for those with heart failure, and (b) to evaluate influencing factors on preparedness to practice on palliative care.A cross-sectional descriptive design employed a structured questionnaire that tested nurses' knowledge, attitude, coping, and preparedness to practice on palliative care for patients with heart failure. Ninety nurses in two tertiary university hospitals in South Korea participated in the survey. Data were analyzed with descriptive statistics, correlation, and multiple regression.Results showed low levels of knowledge reported (an average of 48.3% correct answers), attitude (134.8±110.1), coping (117.2±24.3), and preparedness to practice (17.3±4.7) relating to palliative care. The extent of knowledge was related to both attitudes and coping. These attitudes and coping skills were related to preparedness to practice. The multiple regression analysis showed that preparedness to practice was explained by coping and attitude (R (2) =0.46, F=6.1, p0.001).Palliative care training is urgently needed to improve knowledge, attitude, coping, and preparedness to practice. Guidance to assist healthcare professionals involved in palliative care for those with cardiac disease needs to be developed and provided.

Objective The aim of the present study was to analyse the impact of organisational characteristics on the turnover intention of care workers working at nursing homes in Korea. Methods Study participants included 504 care workers working at 14 nursing homes in Korea. The variables measured were: high-performance work practices, consisting of five subfactors (official training, employment stability, autonomy, employee participation and group-based payment); organisational commitment, consisting of three subfactors (affective, normative and continuance commitment); organisational support; and turnover intention. The inter-relationship between high-performance work practices, organisational support, organisational commitment and turnover intention and the fit of the hypothetical model were analysed using structural equation modelling. Results According to our analysis, high-performance work practices not only had a direct effect on turnover intention, but also an indirect effect by mediating organisational support and commitment. The factor having the largest direct influence on turnover intention was organisational commitment. Conclusions The results of the present study suggest that to improve health conditions for frail elderly patients at nursing homes, as well as the efficiency of nursing homes through the continuance of nursing service and enhancement of quality of service, long-term care facilities should reduce the turnover intention of care workers by increasing their organisational commitment by actively implementing high-performance work practices. What is known about the topic? Considerable studies have shown that the adoption of high-performance work practices is related to an organisation’s performance and job satisfaction. In addition, previous studies found that job satisfaction is inversely related to the turnover intention of employees. What does this paper add? This paper identified that high-performance work practices are closely related to the turnover intention of care workers in nursing homes. These findings could improve our understanding of the factors that impact on labour management in nursing homes. What are the implications for practitioners? The turnover of care workers is one of the major managerial challenges for nursing home managers. The findings of this study suggest that managers should be focused on high-performance work practices to improve the efficiency of their organisations.

The aim of this study was to investigate the contribution of actual cardiovascular disease (CVD) risks, psychosocial and work-related factors as predictors of health behavior. A sample of 234 Korean blue-collar workers, who worked in small companies, was included in this cross-sectional study. Data collection included a survey; anthropometric and blood pressure measures; and blood sampling. Multiple regression analyses showed that the model explained 30% of the variance in health behavior of blue-collar workers. The significant predictors for health behavior included education level, perceived general health, greater family function, higher social support, decision latitude, and non-shift work. Future research should focus on incorporating these significant predictors into effective behavioral interventions designed to promote cardiovascular health in this population.

Purpose: The purpose of this study was to investigate the contribution of actual cardiovascular disease (CVD) risk, as well as, individual, psychosocial, and work-related factors as predictors of CVD risk perception among Korean blue-collar workers. Methods: The participants were 238 Korean blue-collar workers who worked in small companies. Data were collected through a survey; anthropometric and blood pressure measures; and blood sampling for lipid levels. Results: Blue-collar workers had high actual CVD risk and low CVD risk perception. The significant predictors of risk perception included perceived health status, alcohol consumption, knowledge of CVD risk, actual CVD risk, decision latitude, and shift work. The model explained 26% of the variance in CVD risk perception. Conclusion: The result suggests when occupational health nurses are giving routine health examination in small companies, they can enhance CVD risk perception in blue-collar workers by providing essential information about CVD risk factors and personal counseling on the individual worker’s CVD risk status.

Cardiovascular disease (CVD) is a leading cause of mortality. Numerous investigations have linked occupational factors and CVD. Occupational factors such as overtime work have an enormous effect on the CVD risk of industrial workers. However, risk factors for CVD are not systematically reviewed in the workplace. The purpose of the paper is to review work-related risk factors for CVD.A systematic review of work-related CVD risk factors was performed, yielding 180 articles. All articles were assessed in relation to inclusion and exclusion criteria, resulting in 44 articles being reviewed. The sole inclusion criteria was work-related environmental factors and intra/inter-personal factors (psychosocial factors), which is based on the socioecological perspective. The articles were also assessed regarding the quality of each study using the scoring methods developed by Cesario et al. and Brown et al.The literature review demonstrated that work environment factors such as shift work, overtime work, and noise and chemical exposures; and psychosocial factors such as job stress, social support, and socioeconomic status cannot be explained or intervened by one single risk factor. Furthermore, certain occupational factors were shown to aggravate or attenuate other risk factors. The implication of these findings is to incorporate work-related environmental and psychosocial factors into assessment of the patient's CVD risks and intervention plan. Future research should also incorporate a well-defined conceptual framework to address the effects of work-related environmental and psychosocial factors on CVD among CVD patients.