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Abstract Background Noise-Induced Hearing Loss (NIHL) may have a significant effect on individual job performance (IJP). These effects may exert through aggression and work-related quality of life (WRQoL). Hence, the present study was conducted to investigate the modeling of the impact of NIHL on IJP by exploring the role of aggression and WRQoL. Methods In 2022, a comprehensive study was carried out on 335 industrial workers in Kaveh Industrial Town, Saveh, Iran. The study encompassed a range of assessments, including a questionnaire-based survey that included the IJP questionnaire, WRQoL questionnaire, and Aggression questionnaire, as well as a pure tone audiometry test. The data gathered from these assessments were analyzed using structural equation modeling, providing a robust framework for understanding the complex relationships between variables. Results Based on Spearman correlation test there is a negative correlation between NIHLtotal and WRQoL and IJP, with coefficients of -0.459 (P-value

Introduction: Nowadays, the statistics prove that the underground construction projects in the country are increasing, as well as the number of accidents arising from the unsafe condition of these projects. The purpose of this study was to create a framework of safety and health risk management in the construction phase of the Tehran Metro Line 7 tunnel, using IoT technology. Material and Methods: In the first stage, the national safety and health standards, laws and requirements related to the mentioned hazards were collected. In the second stage, the criteria and permissible limits of exposure to occupational hazards were determined. Next, sensors with optical, auditory, gas detection, and visual capabilities connected to the network were examined, and computer programming and comparing sensor information with the specified standards were carried out. Finally, intelligent warning and control systems related to the determined hazards were proposed. Results: In this study, a combined model of risk management utilizing IoT for controlling and monitoring safety and health hazards such as sound, light, explosive and toxic gases was proposed. According to the model, sensors for detecting the mentioned hazards were determined and coded based on the permissible limit of each of the harmful factors. Conclusion: This study has shown that by employing specialized IT and safety knowledge and utilizing relevant software and hardware, the concept of the Internet of Things can be utilized in precise monitoring of the concentration levels of flammable and toxic gases, as well as monitoring of physical agents such as noise and light in various workplace, such as metro tunnel construction sites.

Abstract Multimodal imaging unfolds as an innovative approach that synergistically employs a spectrum of imaging techniques either simultaneously or sequentially. The integration of computed tomography (CT), magnetic resonance imaging (MRI), single-photon emission computed tomography (SPECT), positron emission tomography (PET), and optical imaging (OI) results in a comprehensive and complementary understanding of complex biological processes. This innovative approach combines the strengths of each method and overcoming their individual limitations. By harmoniously blending data from these modalities, it significantly improves the accuracy of cancer diagnosis and aids in treatment decision-making processes. Nanoparticles possess a high potential for facile functionalization with radioactive isotopes and a wide array of contrast agents. This strategic modification serves to augment signal amplification, significantly enhance image sensitivity, and elevate contrast indices. Such tailored nanoparticles constructs exhibit a promising avenue for advancing imaging modalities in both preclinical and clinical setting. Furthermore, nanoparticles function as a unified nanoplatform for the co-localization of imaging agents and therapeutic payloads, thereby optimizing the efficiency of cancer management strategies. Consequently, radiolabeled nanoparticles exhibit substantial potential in driving forward the realms of multimodal imaging and theranostic applications. This review discusses the potential applications of molecular imaging in cancer diagnosis, the utilization of nanotechnology-based radiolabeled materials in multimodal imaging and theranostic applications, as well as recent advancements in this field. It also highlights challenges including cytotoxicity and regulatory compliance, essential considerations for effective clinical translation of nanoradiopharmaceuticals in multimodal imaging and theranostic applications. Graphical Abstract

Various risk factors can affect noise-induced hearing loss (NIHL) among employees. This research sought to establish and validate a risk assessment method for NIHL using these risk factors. This cross-sectional research was carried out with 220 workers from a steel manufacturing facility. At first, their demographic characteristics and information related to the studies’ items were gathered by the researcher-made questionnaire. In the next step, the noise exposure values of the participants were measured by the sound pressure level meter based on the ISO 9612 standard. Moreover, a pure tone audiometric test of bone and air conduction was used to measure hearing loss in people. Ultimately, a new index for risk assessment was created. Indirect effect coefficients of individual factors such as work experience, age, smoking, and effective diseases were 0.266, 0.227, 0.056, and 0.064, respectively. The coefficients of noise exposure items including occupational noise and leisure noise were obtained as 0.687 and 0.660. The personal protective equipment (PPE) items including use of PPE, noise reduction rating of PPE, and awareness of PPE were 0.194, 0.147, and 0.127, respectively. These coefficients were utilized to create a new index. The overall score of the index was divided into four categories using optimal cut-off values of 4.85, 6.84, and 7.59. According to the findings, the OHLRA methods were able to account for 74 percent of the hearing loss values. The results showed that the novel index for risk assessment had proper validity in the prediction of NIHL.

Noise pollution in hospitals has increased over the last few years to a level that can threaten the health and productivity of staff and patient safety. There are many control measures to reduce hospital noise. However, there is still no consensus on the best measures. This study aims to prioritize the control measures for reducing hospital noise. The work is divided into three phases. The first phase identifies and categorizes noise sources in hospitals through a review of the state-of-the art literature using Scopus®, ProQuest, PubMed, Google Scholar, Embase,™ and Web of Science™. The second phase identifies possible strategies for reduction of hospital noise and the best criteria for their adoption using findings from the literature review and interviews with corresponding experts. The third phase uses Fuzzy Analytic Hierarchy Process (FAHP) method and the Technique for Order of Preference by Similarity to Ideal Solution (fuzzy TOPSIS) method to weigh the criteria and to prioritize the control measures. Based on the results, hospital noise sources were classified into four groups: outdoor noise sources (29.7%), noise produced by domestic facilities (20.8%), indoor noise from human activities (27.5%), and noise produced by diagnostic and treatment equipment (22%). The study further arrives at a set of 9 criteria and 22 alternatives ranked using FAHP and fuzzy TOPSIS. The criteria’s weights were determined using the FAHP method, with feasibility (0.175), effectiveness (0.143), and interference with staff activities (0.140) being the most important criteria. It was found that engineering controls such as substitution of noisy equipment (rank = 1), using acoustic enclosures (rank = 2), using double-glazed windows (rank = 2), and soundproofing walls, doors, and windows (rank = 3) have priority for reducing hospital noise.

Nano-diamond (ND) is a special ultrafine reinforcement whose agglomeration properties and weak interfacial bonding limit its application in aluminum matrix composites. This study used the additive friction stir deposition (AFSD) technique to produce AA5083-H321/2.5 wt% nano TiN/ND additive manufacturing deposition hybrid composite parts (AMDCPs) and a non-composite part (AMDNCP) was also deposited for comparative analysis. The aim was to improve the microstructure and examine the effect of the deposition process parameters, which include 900, 1250, and 1600 rpm rod rotation speed and 5 and 12 mm/min feed rate. The AFSD process parameters were used to calculate the heat input. The consumable rod and AMD parts were evaluated for their macrostructure, microstructure, macro-hardness, tribological, and corrosion properties. The microstructural features were examined using an OM, XRD, and SEM equipped with an EDS. The worn and corrosion surface morphology was investigated using SEM, and hardness was also evaluated as contour maps. The results show that defect-free deposited multilayer AA5083-nano TiN/ND hybrid composite parts were successfully manufactured, and analysis revealed a lower D/H ratio, well-bonded layers, homogeneously distributed TiN/ND and fragmented IMC components, and equiaxed refined grain microstructures. The deposited composites via AFSD showed a lower corrosion rate, higher hardness, and wear resistance than the deposited AA5083 consumable rod and AMDNCP. The AMDP C900-12 demonstrates an optimized deposition process parameter (900 rpm, 12 mm/min) with superior properties, including an increase in hardness by 9.3%, a reduction in grain size by 54%, and a decrease in corrosion rate by 45.2% related to the AMDNC part.

Objectives: The prevalence of multiple health hazards in various industries is on the rise, with noise and heat being common harmful factors in industrial environments in Iran. This study aimed to examine the immediate effects of simultaneous exposure to thermal stress and noise on human brain waves and perceived workload.Methods: Seventy-two students (36 men and 36 women) participated voluntarily in this study. Participants were subjected to varying levels of noise exposure, including four noise levels and heat stress (three levels of Wet Bulb Globe Temperature) for 30 minutes each. EEG recordings were conducted for 10 minutes, with participants allowed a 30-minute rest period between each test condition.Results: The combined exposure to noise and heat at two high levels (SPL95+WBGT34 and SPL95+WBGT29) resulted in a significant increase in perceived mental workload compared to the baseline state (P

Abstract Introduction: In recent years, iron oxide-based magnetic nanoparticles have been widely used for a variety of environmental and medical applications, including the purification and separation of pharmaceutical, dye, and heavy metal contaminants, as well as drug delivery and labeling systems. Due to the fact that magnetite (Fe3O4) has superior magnetic and electrical properties, iron oxide has attracted the most interest among many nanostructured materials. Methods: In this research, magnetite nanoparticles (Fe3O4) were successfully synthesized using a green process. This method is simple, fast, cost-effective, and biocompatible. Allium hooshidaryae (Alliaceae) plant extract was used as a stabilizing and reducing agent in this process. Green synthesized nanoparticles were characterized by several structural and physical techniques, like Vibrating Sample Magnetometer (VSM), X-ray Diffraction (XRD), Fourier Transform Infrared (FTIR), Energy Dispersive X-ray Spectroscopy (EDS), Transmission Electron Microscope (TEM) ) and scanning electron microscope (SEM). Findings: XRD results showed that the synthesized nanoparticles are FCC structure with high purity. FTIR results proved the binding of functional group present in this plant and Fe3O4 nanoparticles. Also, in FTIR analysis, the presence of two absorption peaks of 559.96 cm-1 and 432.57 cm-1 confirmed the successful green synthesis of Fe3O4 nanoparticles. SEM and TEM images showed that the green synthesized Fe3O4 nanoparticles are mostly spherical and have an average size of 35.73 nm. As a result, the synthesized nanoparticles have the potential to have useful benefits in future nanomedicine

Introduction: Many industries have multiple factors harmful to health, leading to simultaneous exposure of these factors to each other. Noise is one of the most common physical parameters in the work environment. On the other hand, heat is also increasing due to various energy processes in industries. Therefore, this study was conducted with the aim of determining changes in physiological parameters and visual-auditory attention in acute exposure to heat and noise. Material and Methods: In this experimental study, 72 individuals (36 men and 36 women) aged between 23 and 33 years participated according to the inclusion criteria. In total, 12 different test modes were performed (3 temperature levels and 4 noise pressure levels). The test was conducted for each person in 4 steps during a specific day. The duration of exposure to each condition was half an hour, and a half-hour rest was given between each test condition. Saliva samples of each subject were collected before and immediately after exposure to noise and heat. Also, The Integrated Visual and Auditory (IVA) was recorded by the participants simultaneously. Results: The results of combined exposure to noise and heat on visual and auditory attention showed that only two modes of combined exposure, SPL95+WBGT34 and SPL95+WBGT29, caused a significant increase (P < 0.05) in mental workload and a significant decrease (P < 0.05) in visual and auditory attention. In addition, the results showed that independent exposure to noise at the levels of 85 and 95 dB and exposure to heat at higher temperature levels of 34 and 29 degrees Celsius cause a significant increase (P < 0.05) in salivary cortisol after exposure. The results of the effect of combined exposure to noise and heat on salivary cortisol showed that three experimental modes of combined exposure (SPL85+WBGT34, SPL95+WBGT29, and SPL95+WBGT34) caused a noticeable and significant (P

Abstract In recent years, mesoporous silica nanoparticles (MSNs) have been applied in various biomedicine fields like bioimaging, drug delivery, and antibacterial alternatives. MSNs could be manufactured through green synthetic methods as environmentally friendly and sustainable synthesis approaches, to improve physiochemical characteristics for biomedical applications. In the present research, we used Rutin (Ru) extract, a biocompatible flavonoid, as the reducing agent and nonsurfactant template for the green synthesis of Ag-decorated MSNs. Transmission electron microscopy (TEM), zeta-potential, x-ray powder diffraction (XRD), fourier transform infrared (FTIR) spectroscopy analysis, scanning electron microscopy (SEM), brunauer–emmett–teller (BET) analysis, and energy-dispersive system (EDS) spectroscopy were used to evaluate the Ag-decorated MSNs physical characteristics. The antimicrobial properties were evaluated against Staphylococcus aureus (S. aureus), Escherichia coli (E. coli), and also different types of candida. The cytotoxicity test was performed by using the MTT assay. Based on the findings, the significant antimicrobial efficacy of Ru-Ag-decorated MSNs against both gram positive and gram negative bacteria and different types of fungi was detected as well as acceptable safety and low cytotoxicity even at lower concentrations. Our results have given a straightforward and cost-effective method for fabricating biodegradable Ag-decorated MSNs. The applications of these MSNs in the domains of biomedicine appear to be promising.

Background and Objective: Considering the importance of quality of work life among nurses working in the intensive care unit, it is important to identify the components that affect this index. Therefore, the present study aimed to investigate the relationship between workload and work-related quality of life among nurses working in the intensive care unit. Materials and Methods: In the present cross-sectional and descriptive-analytical study, 384 nurses working in the intensive care unit were studied in 2021. The NASA task load index (NASA TLX) was used to determine workload, and the work-Related Quality of Life Questionnaire (WRQoL) was used to determine the quality of their working life. The obtained data were entered into SPSS software and analyzed. Results: The results demonstrated that the most effective factor in increasing workload is a physical need, and the most important dimension affecting the quality of work life is job satisfaction. The correlation between quantitative demographic parameters with workload and quality of life indicators also pointed to the significant correlation of the mentioned indicators with age, work experience, and the number of shifts per month. Conclusion: As evidenced by the results of this study, there was an inverse relationship between workload and WRQoL. It is necessary for hospital managers to be aware of the existing conditions and reduce the factors affecting workload to increase the WRQoL of nurses.

Abstract Artificial, de-novo manufactured materials (with controlled nano-sized characteristics) have been progressively used by neuroscientists during the last several decades. The introduction of novel implantable bioelectronics interfaces that are better suited to their biological targets is one example of an innovation that has emerged as a result of advanced nanostructures and implantable bioelectronics interfaces, which has increased the potential of prostheses and neural interfaces. The unique physical–chemical properties of nanoparticles have also facilitated the development of novel imaging instruments for advanced laboratory systems, as well as intelligently manufactured scaffolds and microelectrodes and other technologies designed to increase our understanding of neural tissue processes. The incorporation of nanotechnology into physiology and cell biology enables the tailoring of molecular interactions. This involves unique interactions with neurons and glial cells in neuroscience. Technology solutions intended to effectively interact with neuronal cells, improved molecular-based diagnostic techniques, biomaterials and hybridized compounds utilized for neural regeneration, neuroprotection, and targeted delivery of medicines as well as small chemicals across the blood–brain barrier are all purposes of the present article.

Abstract Angiogenesis is a vital biological process involving blood vessels forming from pre-existing vascular systems. This process contributes to various physiological activities, including embryonic development, hair growth, ovulation, menstruation, and the repair and regeneration of damaged tissue. On the other hand, it is essential in treating a wide range of pathological diseases, such as cardiovascular and ischemic diseases, rheumatoid arthritis, malignancies, ophthalmic and retinal diseases, and other chronic conditions. These diseases and disorders are frequently treated by regulating angiogenesis by utilizing a variety of pro-angiogenic or anti-angiogenic agents or molecules by stimulating or suppressing this complicated process, respectively. Nevertheless, many traditional angiogenic therapy techniques suffer from a lack of ability to achieve the intended therapeutic impact because of various constraints. These disadvantages include limited bioavailability, drug resistance, fast elimination, increased price, nonspecificity, and adverse effects. As a result, it is an excellent time for developing various pro- and anti-angiogenic substances that might circumvent the abovementioned restrictions, followed by their efficient use in treating disorders associated with angiogenesis. In recent years, significant progress has been made in different fields of medicine and biology, including therapeutic angiogenesis. Around the world, a multitude of research groups investigated several inorganic or organic nanoparticles (NPs) that had the potential to effectively modify the angiogenesis processes by either enhancing or suppressing the process. Many studies into the processes behind NP-mediated angiogenesis are well described. In this article, we also cover the application of NPs to encourage tissue vascularization as well as their angiogenic and anti-angiogenic effects in the treatment of several disorders, including bone regeneration, peripheral vascular disease, diabetic retinopathy, ischemic stroke, rheumatoid arthritis, post-ischemic cardiovascular injury, age-related macular degeneration, diabetic retinopathy, gene delivery-based angiogenic therapy, protein delivery-based angiogenic therapy, stem cell angiogenic therapy, and diabetic retinopathy, cancer that may benefit from the behavior of the nanostructures in the vascular system throughout the body. In addition, the accompanying difficulties and potential future applications of NPs in treating angiogenesis-related diseases and antiangiogenic therapies are discussed.

Abstract Background Hospital noise can adversely impact nurses’ health, their cognitive function and emotion and in turn, influence the quality of patient care and patient safety. Thus, the aim of this study was to predict the contributing roles of exposure to hospital noise, staff noise-sensitivity and annoyance, on the quality of patient care. Methods This descriptive and cross-sectional study was carried out among nurses in an Iranian hospital. To determine nurses’ noise exposure level, the noise was measured in 1510 locations across the hospital in accordance with ISO 9612 standards using KIMO DB 300/2 sound level meter and analyzer. An online survey was used to collect nurses’ individual data. Study questionnaires included demographics, Weinstein noise sensitivity scale, noise annoyance scale, and quality of patient care scale. Finally, to analyze the data, Bayesian Networks (BNs), as probabilistic and graphical models, were used. Results For the high noise exposure state, high noise sensitivity, and high annoyance, with the probability of 100%, the probability of delivering a desirable quality of patient care decreased by 21, 14, and 23%, respectively. Moreover, at the concurrently high noise exposure and high noise sensitivity with the probability of 100%, the desirable quality of patient care decreased by 26%. The Bayesian most influence value was related to the association of noise exposure and annoyance (0.636). Moreover, annoyance had the highest association with the physical aspect of quality of care (0.400) and sensitivity had the greatest association with the communication aspect (0.283). Conclusion Annoyance induced from environmental noise and personal sensitivity affected the quality of patient care adversely. Moreover, noise and sensitivity had a separate direct adverse effect upon the quality of patient care, and their co-occurrence reduced the potential for delivering quality patient care.

Cognitive workload has been known as a key factor in traffic accidents, which can be highly increased by talking on the phone while driving. A wide range of studies around the world investigated the effects of mobile phone conversations on driving performance and traffic accidents. But less noticed is the durability of cognitive effects of mobile phone conversations. This study aimed to determine the effects of different types of mobile phone conversations on physiological response and driving performance during and after the conversation. Heart rate, heart rate variability (physiological response), Standard deviation of lane position (SDLP), and the relative distance between two cars (driving performance) of 34 samples (male and female) in the driving simulator were recorded. In this study, three types of conversations (neutral, cognitive, and arousal) were used. Neutral conversation did not pursue specific purpose questions. Cognitive conversations were simple mathematical problem-solving questions and arousal conversations aimed at arousing participant emotions. Each conversation was used as a secondary task in a condition. The study had three conditions; in each condition the participant drove for 15 min. Each condition consisted of 5 min of driving (Background), 5 min of driving and conversation (dual tasks) and 5 min of driving after conversation to trace the effects of the conversation. Vehicle speed was 110 km/h in each of the three conditions using car-following scenario. The results showed that neutral conversations had no significant effects on physiological response. Though, arousal conversations had significant effects on physiological responsiveness and driving performance during conversations, where it was even more significant after disconnection. Therefore, the content of the conversation determines the amount of cognitive load imposed on the driver. Considering the persistence of cognitive effects caused by conversation, the risk of traffic accidents is still high even after disconnection.

Background: People’s participation in more efficient control of the disease and public awareness about the risk of COVID-19 affect their preventive behavior. This study examines the level of fear of COVID-19 infection in Iranian society after returning to social activities and business reopening. Methods: This Cross-Sectional study consisted of urban dwellers in Iran, and the data gathering tool was a researcher-designed questionnaire. To design the instrument, the authors interviewed experts and ordinary people to determine the key questions . Then, the questions were modified and finalized based on the experts’ feedback and a reexamination by the experts after two weeks. An online version of the questionnaire was disseminated using social networks. 168 people were included in the study by the available sampling method. Data were analyzed through descriptive statistics methods. Quantitative data as mean and standard deviation were reported, and the qualitative data were reported as numbers. Chi-square test and Spearman correlation coefficient were used to examine the relationship between questions related to COVID-19 infection fear and demographic variables. Data analyses were done in SPSS 20. Results: The study was carried out on 168 participants, and 78 of them were employees of different offices. The participants believed that among the ways of spreading the disease, kissing and hugging (n=142, 84.5%), shaking hands (n=127, 75.6%), contact with the saliva of an infected person (n=116, 69.0%), and spread through the air (n=60, 35.7%) had the highest frequencies. Conclusion: Fear of COVID-19 infection in the participants was at moderate and above moderate levels. The participants also hoped that the vaccine would be found and made available to the public. Policy-makers in the health sector can use the results.

The study aims to estimate metal foam microstructure parameters for the maximum sound absorption coefficient (SAC) in the specified frequency band to obtain optimum metal foam fabrication. Lu’s theory model is utilised to calculate the SAC of metallic foams that refers to three morphological parameters: porosity, pore size, and pore opening. After Lu model validation, particle swarm optimisation (PSO) is used to optimise the parameters. The optimum values are obtained at frequencies 250 to 8000 Hz, porosity of 50 to 95%, a pore size of 0.1 to 4.5 mm, and pore opening of 0.07 to 0.98 mm. The results revealed that at frequencies above 1000 Hz, the absorption efficiency increases due to changes in the porosity, pore size, and pore opening values rather than the thickness. However, for frequencies below 2000 Hz, increasing the absorption efficiency is strongly correlated with an increase in foam thickness. The PSO is successfully used to find optimum absorption conditions, the reference for absorbent fabrication, on a frequency band 250 to 8000 Hz. The outcomes will provide an efficient tool and guideline for optimum estimation of acoustic absorbents.

Introduction: There are several generic and specific models to assess the individual job performance (IJP). While these methods may provide the valuable information, none of them cover the complexity and wide range of the behaviors which express the IJP. This review study aimed to identify all existing models and incorporate them to achieve a comprehensive conceptual model to assess the IJP. Material and Methods: Databases such as PubMed, Scopus, Embase, and ProQuest were systematically searched to meet the study’s goals. Moreover, references to relevant publications were examined. Finally, suitable publications were discovered and analyzed using the inclusion and exclusion criteria. Results: The results of Search in databases, including PubMed, Scopus, Embase, and ProQuest, showed that 12754 articles were found in the initial search. After removing duplicate and unrelated articles, finally, 155 eligible articles were selected. Based on full-text screening, 10 studies were excluded, and 5 studies were not accessible. Finally, by checking the references mentioned in the selected articles, 4 more eligible articles which were not retrieved in the search strategy were added; finally, 61 articles were selected to be reviewed. Ninteen articles were related to the general models, and 19 articles addressed job-specific assessment models. The remaining 23 articles described other existing models. Conclusion: To evaluate IJP, a heuristic structure was developed based on the literature research. These dimensions were selected because they can accommodate all of the preceding models’ dimensions. They also include any behaviors that may have an impact on IJP.

Throughout the United States, cancer remains the second leading cause of death. Traditional treatments induce significant medical toxic effects and unpleasant adverse reactions, making them inappropriate for long-term use. Consequently, anticancer-drug resistance and relapse are frequent in certain situations. Thus, there is an urgent necessity to find effective antitumor medications that are specific and have few adverse consequences. Curcumin is a polyphenol derivative found in the turmeric plant (Curcuma longa L.), and provides chemopreventive, antitumor, chemo-, and radio-sensitizing properties. In this paper, we summarize the new nano-based formulations of polyphenolic curcumin because of the growing interest in its application against cancers and tumors. According to recent studies, the use of nanoparticles can overcome the hydrophobic nature of curcumin, as well as improving its stability and cellular bioavailability in vitro and in vivo. Several strategies for nanocurcumin production have been developed, each with its own set of advantages and unique features. Because the majority of the curcumin-based nanoformulation evidence is still in the conceptual stage, there are still numerous issues impeding the provision of nanocurcumin as a possible therapeutic option. To support the science, further work is necessary to develop curcumin as a viable anti-cancer adjuvant. In this review, we cover the various curcumin nanoformulations and nanocurcumin implications for therapeutic uses for cancer, as well as the current state of clinical studies and patents. We further address the knowledge gaps and future research orientations required to develop curcumin as a feasible treatment candidate.