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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.

Abstract Background Various agents such as psychosocial items and accident proneness can affect cognitive failures through different paths. The probable paths are the direct effects of workplace psychosocial items on cognitive failures and their indirect effects on cognitive failures through the mediator variable of accident proneness, which has not yet been studied by others. Thus, the present study aimed to investigate these paths. Methods This cross-sectional study was conducted on 164 male employees of Karoon Sugar Company in 2018. The participants were asked to complete a background and demographic questionnaire, Broadbent cognitive failures scale, accident proneness questionnaire, and Copenhagen psychosocial questionnaire. Obtained data were analyzed and modeled using the statistical descriptive method, ANOVA, independent t-test, Pearson correlation test, and path analysis in the SPSS and AMOS software. Results The results of the path analysis showed that, not only, some psychosocial risk items had a significant direct effect on cognitive failures, but also, they could affect cognitive failures through the accident proneness, indirectly. Work-family conflict and social support from supervisors by coefficients of 0.188 and – 0.187 had the highest direct effects, respectively. The highest indirect effects belonged to justice and respect, and work-family conflict by coefficients of - 0.220 and 0.199, respectively. The highest total effects were also related to the work-family conflict and justice and respect by coefficients of 0.387 and – 0.381, respectively. Conclusions In total, our results showed that some psychological items could, directly and indirectly, increase cognitive failure through accident proneness.

Owing to their lower adverse environmental impacts, natural refrigerants have recently attracted a huge deal of attention. In this regard, the present study is aimed to evaluate the thermodynamic properties of different gaseous natural refrigerants at the molecular level using molecular dynamics (MD) simulations. In this context, the density (as a representative of structural features), enthalpy, and specific heat capacity (as representatives of energy properties) of several natural gaseous refrigerants including helium, nitrogen, methane, and ethane were assessed. Lennard-Jones potential was used for simulation of helium and nitrogen while AIREBO potential and OPLS-AA force-fields were employed for simulation of methane and ethane as polyatomic hydrocarbon refrigerants. Simulations are carried out at various temperatures above the boiling point and pressures of 1, 2, and 5 bar. MD results were in good agreement with the experimental data. Among the applied potentials, AIREBO potential offered results closer to the experimental data as compared with OPLS-AA force-field. The methane-ethane mixture was also addressed at different pressures and compared with the Peng-Robinson equation of state. The results of this study indicated that molecular dynamics can be employed as a reliable tool for predicting the thermodynamic properties of natural refrigerants. The results can be used in the refrigeration cycles.

Abstract Microbubbles are typically 0.5–10 μm in size. Their size tends to make it easier for medication delivery mechanisms to navigate the body by allowing them to be swallowed more easily. The gas included in the microbubble is surrounded by a membrane that may consist of biocompatible biopolymers, polymers, surfactants, proteins, lipids, or a combination thereof. One of the most effective implementation techniques for tiny bubbles is to apply them as a drug carrier that has the potential to activate ultrasound (US); this allows the drug to be released by US. Microbubbles are often designed to preserve and secure medicines or substances before they have reached a certain area of concern and, finally, US is used to disintegrate microbubbles, triggering site-specific leakage/release of biologically active drugs. They have excellent therapeutic potential in a wide range of common diseases. In this article, we discussed microbubbles and their advantageous medicinal uses in the treatment of certain prevalent disorders, including Parkinson's disease, Alzheimer's disease, cardiovascular disease, diabetic condition, renal defects, and finally, their use in the treatment of various forms of cancer as well as their incorporation with nanoparticles. Using microbubble technology as a novel carrier, the ability to prevent and eradicate prevalent diseases has strengthened the promise of effective care to improve patient well-being and life expectancy.

Background: One of the major topics related to the very long tunnels is dark hole effect. This is a common phenomenon caused by the sunlight reflected from the surroundings of the tunnel to the eyes of drivers and the lack of sufficient light at the tunnels' entrance, which decreases the contrast of barriers inside the tunnel and also makes it difficult to see potential obstacles at the entrance. The result is an increased risk of traffic accidents in these tunnels. Therefore, the aim of this research is to subjectively assessment the safe rate of lighting in one of the very long tunnels located in the province of Ilam. Methods: To subject evaluation the safe rate of lighting at the tunnel entrances, two parameters of the average luminance of tunnel entrance and equivalent luminance are required. In this study, Luminancemeter device model S3 was used to measure the average luminance of tunnel entrance. Then, to calculate the equivalent luminance, a YASHICA108 camera with a 35 mm lens was photographed at a distance between the tunnel entrance and a safe stopping point, and then the Holliday polar diagram was used to calculate equivalent luminance (accordance with the standard CIE88-2004). Results: In this study, the average luminance at tunnel's entrance was equal to 17 , the luminance was equal to 127.5 Using the ADRENAL equation, the quality of lightening at the tunnel entrance was less than 1. Conclusion: Comparison of the results obtained from the healthy and safety rate of lighting levels at the tunnel's entrance with the De Boer mental scale indicated that a dark hole effect occurs at the entrance of the tunnel under investigation and the light sources installed at the entrance of this tunnel did not have the sufficient ability to inhibit the dark hole effect.

Background and Objective: The number of road accidents and casualties is considerably high in Iran. In addition, car headlights, especially on two-way roads, cause glare in the eyes of oncoming drivers. This study aimed to determine the level of discomfort caused by the glare of car headlights and the effects of some variables on creating discomfort glare. Materials and Methods: The illuminance of the driver’s eye was measured using luxmeter, and the severity of discomfort glare caused by the car’s headlights was determined using the Schmidt-Clausen and Bindels model, the lateral and longitudinal distance between the two vehicles, and the background luminance of the road surface. Results: In the low beam mode of the cars, luxmeter failed to record any illuminance from 100 to 50 meters distance. In the high beam mode, the discomfort glare gradually increased by the reduction of the longitudinal distance between two vehicles from the distance of 100 meters. Increase in the level of discomfort glare for Samand, Pride Saba GTX, Pride 131SL, Renault Megan, and Peugeot Pars cars continued up to 30, 20, and 10 meters, and up to 10 and 20 meters in the case of Peugeot 405 car depending on the background luminance, respectively. The level of discomfort glare reduced from these intervals onwards. Conclusion: The discomfort glare can be affected by changes and adjustments made in the side distance between vehicles, direction and height of car headlights, as well as voltage and type of headlight lamp and can be reduced by changes in road design and vehicle headlights.

Background and Objectives: Road traffic accident is one of the leading causes of death in some countries such as Iran. Disability glare due to headlights of vehicles can increase the risk of crashes and make dangerous conditions. This study aimed to investigate the level of glare induced by the headlights of most common vehicles in Iran. Materials and Methods: This cross-sectional study was conducted in a suburban road of Ilam province in 2019. The disability glare resulted from the headlights of Pride Saba GTX, Pride 131SL, Samand Soren, Peugeot 405, Megan, and Peugeot Pars was measured at the distances of 10–100 m away from the headlights. The Threshold Elevation index under the high-beam and low-beam conditions (headlight's operation modes) was obtained for the background luminance condition including 1 and 50 cd/m2 for the age groups of 20, 35, 70, and 83 years old. Results: When the background luminance was 1 cd/m2, the mean glare level caused by the high-beam mode of illumination exceeded the recommended disability glare thresholds of all age groups. When the background luminance was 50 cd/m2, at certain longitudinal distances, glare level exceeded the disability glare thresholds of the elderly drivers (aged 70 and 83 years). At the background luminance of 1 cd/m2, low-beam mode of illumination caused disability glare at certain distances but not in general. At the background luminance of 50 cd/m2, low-beam mode of illumination did not cause disability glare at any distance. Conclusion: The results showed the mutual effect of luminance and the angle of line of sight with respect to glare source on the emergence of disability glare. The age also exhibited a significant association with the disability glare, as the highest glare levels were obtained for older drivers.

Background and Objective: Coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) brings about serious mental problems, such as stress, anxiety, and hypochondriasis, apart from its negative physical effects. The present study aimed to assess the relationship between hypochondriasis and the resilience of employees in an occupational environment during the COVID-19 pandemic. Materials and Methods: This cross-sectional study was performed on 275 employees in one of the Industries in southern Iran in the late spring of 2020. Data collection instruments included demographic information form, a researcher-made questionnaire, Connor-Davidson Resilience Scale) CD-RSC), and Evans hypochondria standard questionnaire. The collected data were analyzed in SPSS software (version 22) using one-way ANOVA, Pearson correlation, and linear regression. Results: As evidenced by the obtained results, the mean prevalence of hypochondriasis was 33.37±14.87, and the total mean of resilience score was obtained at 20.95±78.56. Hypochondriasis was significantly correlated with age, career length, use of personal protective equipment, the experience of coronavirus, and attention to preventive measures (P

Background: Analysis of accident data based on social and economic factors can be useful in determining injury patterns and establishing operational policies to improve safety and health. The purpose of this study is to investigate the effect of socio-economic factors in accidents. Methods: This descriptive-analytical study was conducted based on information obtained from the Labor Inspection Office of Qom Province in 2017. In this study, the required information was extracted from recorded accident forms of 1048 accident cases occurred among victims who were over 18 years old. In this study, the dependent variables include the outcome of accidents divided into two groups of accidents leading to death and injury. Data were analyzed using Stata Software version 23 (Stat Crop. USA). Results: Based on the results, the presence of a safety officer in the industry reduced the risk of accidents leading to injury (AOR = 0.87, 95% CI: 0.72-0.91, P

Introduction: Many studies have been carried out on the effects of heat stress on cognitive functions, but the results are contradictory. Therefore, this study was conducted to review the effect of heat stress on cognitive functions. Material and method: In this study, all English articles conducted on effect of heat stress on cognitive, perceptual, and psychomotor functions from 1970 to 2018 were reviewed. For this, articles with keywords such as heat strain, heat stress, cognitive function, memory, comprehension, psychomotor, reaction time, mental performance, mood, mental response, error, task performance, fatigue, alertness, hyperthermia, and heat exhaustion in the Scopus, Web of Science, Science Direct, Pub Med, Springer, Wiley Online Library and ProQuest databases were searched. Out of 157 retrieved articles, 39 articles were finally reviewed according to the inclusion criteria. Results: Out of 157 retrieved articles related to the topic, according to the inclusion criteria, 39 articles were finally considered for review. Among this articles, 9 (%23) articles were published before 2000 and 30 (%77) after 2000. Two articles were in athletes, four articles (%10.2) in workers, four articles (%10.2) in students, four articles (%10.2) in military soldiers and twenty-five articles (%64.2) were conducted in ordinary people.Based on the results, heat stress was identified as a detrimental factor for decreased cognitive functions such as reading comprehension, memory, focus, mathematical processing, tracking test, reaction time, perception and decoding text and numeric messages, visual alertness, mental computing, text reading , hidden figures test and verbal fluency. Conclusion: Based on the results of these studies, heat stress has been introduced as a detrimental factor for disrupting cognitive functions, but conclusion based on the results of studies is a systematic method is difficult because many confounding variables such as type of work, exposure time, skill and adaptation plays a big role.

Abstract Background and aims: Traffic safety is a major concern all around the world. About 1.5 million people die each year from road accidents and 50 million are injured. These figures account for about 1/2 percent of all deaths in the world, making road crashes the ninth most common cause of deaths. In Iran, the number of road accidents and their fatalities is significantly higher than the world standard. As the annual incidence rate of 32 cases per 100,000 is the second leading cause of death and the most common cause of injuries. The need for road tunnels increased with the development of road transport to reduce traffic congestion, reduce travel time and save energy. The construction of these tunnels created visual problems associated with the physiological mismatch of the driverschr('39') eyes at the inlet and outlet of the tunnel resulting in an increased risk of traffic accidents. Therefore, standards were developed to improve safety and reduce traffic accidents in these tunnels, including CIE 88-2004, PR-22-05 and IESNA. In order to safely cross the road tunnel, it is essential that all drivers have sufficient information about the road ahead, potential obstacles, and the presence and performance of other drivers. Therefore, one of the key factors in preventing accidents in road tunnels is the installation of lighting systems. The purpose of lighting in road tunnels is to provide an appropriate degree of safety for drivers during entry, transit and exit of the road tunnel, both over the day and night. According to CIE 88-2004, the purpose of road tunnel lighting is to create a safe and comfortable environment throughout the tunnels so that drivers along the road will have sufficient information on the road, possible obstacles and the direction of movement of other vehicles. According to the CIE Technical Report, drivers have different visual problems as they approach, enter, and exit the tunnel. One of the main causes of road accidents in tunnels is the lack of design of an optimal lighting system. Therefore, the aim of this study is to evaluate the luminance in a road tunnel based on CIE88-2004 standard in order to reduce the number of accidents caused by visual problems. Methods: In the present study, CIE88-2004 was used to evaluate the luminance in road tunnels. Early stages in assessing and evaluating luminance road tunnels include the determination of safety stop distance, equivalent veiling luminance, atmospheric luminance and wind screen luminance. The safety stop distance is equal to the sum of the distance between the barrier processing in the brain and the driverchr('39')s motor response to the brake, so that this distance prevents the vehicle from colliding with potential obstacles in road tunnels. Equivalent veiling luminance is caused by the reflection of light from the environment around the tunnel, to the driverschr('39') eyes, resulting in reduced contrast in the tunnels. Luminosity caused by factors such as dust in the atmosphere that make light scattering is called atmospheric luminance. One of the main reasons for the reduction of contrast in the eyes of drivers is due to the diffusion of light in the windshield. To determine the equivalent veiling luminance, photographic camera with 35mm lens and Holiday-Stiles was used. In order to determine the brightness of the equivalent view, the percentage of environmental factors (sky, road, rock, building and grassland) were determined by drawing a polarized halide diagram on the tunnel entrance photo and considering the networking of each segment of the rings. It should be noted that in some areas, the luminance level was not included in the luminance calculations due to the dashboard and the roof of the car, which prevents drivers from glaring. To determine the atmospheric luminance and wind screen luminance, HAGNER luminance meter model S3 was used. After determining the equivalent veiling luminance, atmospheric luminance and wind screen luminance of the vehicle, the required luminance in different areas of the study tunnel was designed using the CIE88-2004 standard. According to CIE-88-2004, in order to prevent road accidents caused by poor lighting, road tunnels are divided into 5 areas: access zone, threshold zone, transition zone, interior zone and exterior zone. The access zone is the distance before entering the tunnel which is equal to the length of the safety stop distance. The threshold zone is the first area inside the tunnel that requires a great deal of artificial lighting to manage and control the adverse effects of the black hole phenomenon. In the transition zone, due to the driverchr('39')s transition from the bright environment outside the tunnel to the dark environment inside the tunnel, the eye must adapt to these changes in brightness. The interior zone is the longest area in the tunnel and usually requires low illuminance levels. Exterior zone; this area again prepares the eyes for sunlight and usually requires a high level of illuminance to adapt the eye from the tunnel to the light outside the tunnel. Results: In determining the safety stop distance, the average reaction time was set to 1 second according to the CIE standard recommendation. Based on the tunnel location and the 10-year data of Ilam Weather Station No. 40780, the average annual rainfall was 73.8 days. According to the Paris recommendation, the coefficient of friction between the road and the tire in places where the average annual rainfall is more than 75 hours, the road condition is considered wet in access zone of tunnel. Therefore, the coefficient of friction between the road and the tire was 0.35, taking into account the wet road surface and the maximum speed allowed by vehicles passing through the tunnel. Then the safety stop distance in the tunnel was set 69.6 m. After estimating luminance in all polarized halide diagram rings, the equivalent veiling luminance was determined equal to 127.5 candela per m2. Also, the wind screen luminance and atmospheric luminance were measured 234.4 and 308 candela per m2, respectively. Then, according to these measurements, the required luminance levels in the first and the end of the second part of the threshold zone were determined as 576 and 230.6 candela/m2, respectively. Then, according to the safety stop distance (69.6 m) and heavy traffic volume, the required luminance level of the interior zone was 6.2 candela/m2. After determining the luminance in the interior zone of the tunnel, the type of tunnel (long, very long) must be specified. Therefore by reducing the length of the threshold zone (69.6 m), transition zone (432 m) and exterior zone (89.6 m) of the entire tunnel length (1200 m), the length of interior zone (608.8 m) was determined. Thus, by dividing the maximum permissible speed of vehicles inside the tunnel by the length of the interior zone, the time interval by the interior zone was determined to be 33.8 seconds. Because the time interval in the interior zone for studied tunnel was more than 30 seconds, the tunnel was classified as very long tunnel and the luminance in the second part of the interior zone was 2.3 Candela/m2. Also, according to the CIE standard, the luminance at the end of the exterior zone increased by 5 times compared to the second part of the interior zone, which equals 11.5 candela per square meter. Conclusion: Lighting in road tunnels is of particular importance as neglecting it can cause major problems with driver safety such as black hole phenomena (before entering the tunnel), mismatch (during tunnel entry) and white hole phenomena (as exiting the tunnel). In this study, the required luminance (designed) in the initial part of the threshold zone was 576 candela per square meter with respect to the equivalent veiling luminance resulted from the tunnel surrounding, wind screen luminance and atmospheric luminance. This amount of luminosity required at the tunnel entrance can be reduced in appropriate ways such as; installation of asymmetric lighting systems inside the tunnel (of course, asymmetric lighting systems have some disadvantages, such as the high need for the high ceiling, also, not adjusting asymmetric lighting systems in the opposite direction of traffic can increase the flicker effect). Another way to reduce the required luminance is to reduce the luminance of the surrounding of tunnel environment. By changing the surfaces around the tunnel from high reflective materials to low reflective materials (planting grass and trees), the level of luminance can be significantly reduced in the eyes of drivers in the tunnel access zone. In road tunnels, drivers should identify road barriers at least at safety stop distance to prevent accidents. Effective ways to quickly adapt the driverschr('39') eyes to the dark inside the tunnel have been investigated, including the installation of semi-transparent structures to move the threshold zone to the outside of the tunnel. This allows the use of sunlight to achieve the desired luminance. Although most problems occur at tunnel entrances, the eye matching from low luminance inside the tunnel to high luminance outside the tunnel in the exterior zone of tunnel should not be ignored. Although this process is relatively fast, however, a high difference in luminance between the end of the tunnel and the environment outside the tunnels should be avoided.

Introduction: Although noise characteristics such as intensity and frequency are the main cause of detrimental effects, it is important to pay attention to the personality traits of individuals as the host of adverse health effects. The aim of this study was to investigate the effect of personality traits on sensitivity, annoyance and loudness perception due to exposure to high frequency sound. Material and method: This interventional and experimental study was carried out among 80 undergraduate and postgraduate students in 2017. First, examinee were exposed to a high frequency noise at 65 dBA for one hour in an acoustic room. Then, to determine amount of annoyance, sensitivity, loudness perception and to investigate personality traits, questionnaire of noise annoyance, noise sensitivity, loudness perception and Eysenck personality inventory was used, respectively. Finally, Chi-square, independent t-test and multivariate analysis of variance (MANOVA) were used to data analyze. Results: The mean±SD of sensitivity, annoyance and loudness perception were 54.08±7.71, 7.0±1.53, and 2.79±1.13, respectively in this study. The mean scores of sensitivity, annoyance and loudness perception were significantly different in terms of personality traits, so that their average was higher in the neurotic and introverted. Based on MANOVA test results, personality traits had a significant effect on sensitivity, annoyance and loudness perception of individuals. In a way, the neuroticism and introversion had the greatest effect on the sensitivity and annoyance, respectively. Conclusion: The results of this study showed that personality traits such as introversion and neuroticism can affect the sensitivity, annoyance and loudness perception of individuals.

This paper presents investigations into a comparative assessment of the effects of low- and high-frequency noise in relation to personality traits. The high- and low-frequency noises used are produced in the research laboratory using CoolEdit software. In all, 80 candidates were exposed to equivalent continuous sound pressure level of 65 dBA of low- and high-frequency noise in an acoustic room with a 2-week interval. After 1 hour of exposure to noise, participants were asked to complete noise annoyance scale, Weinstein noise sensitivity questionnaire and loudness perception. The results obtained indicate that there is a significant difference between annoyance and perception of low-frequency noise in comparison to annoyance and perception of high-frequency noise, but no significant difference is noted between sensitivity to low- and high-frequency noise. The multivariate analysis of covariance test is applied, which reveals that personality traits have a significant effect on sensitivity to low- and high-frequency noise, annoyance due to low- and high-frequency noise, loudness perception of low-frequency noise, but no interaction effects are found. It is further shown that personality traits are more effective on sensitivity, annoyance and loudness perception to high-frequency noise than those of low-frequency noise, and such effects are not only influenced by severity of noise but also by personality traits and frequency components.

Background: Noise pollution is considered as a major threat to human society that may affect life quality, efficiency, physical and mental health. Therefore, the present study was aimed to investigate the effects of noise exposure and noise sensitivity on psychological distress in an automobile parts manufacturer's employees. Methods: In this descriptive-analytical study, 325 employees of an automobile parts manufacturer who were exposed to different noise levels in seven groups were investigated. Daily personal noise exposure for each group was measured using calibrated sound level meter (SVANTEK-971) based on ISO-9612 standards. Then employees' mental disorder and noise sensitivity were determined using Kessler Psychological Distress Scale and Weinstein's Noise Sensitivity Scale (WNSS), respectively, and data was analyzed using SPSS v. 23. Results: Mean psychological distress was significantly different between noise sensitivity and noise exposure groups (P-value

Background: Low-frequency noise as a detrimental occupational and environmental factor which can cause noise annoyance. In addition to noise, factors such as sensitivity and awareness of adverse health effects of noise seem to play an important role in causing annoyance. Therefore, this study aimed to investigate the association of noise annoyance and loudness perception caused by exposure to low-frequency noise with noise sensitivity. Methods: To achieve this goal, 80 students were exposed to low-frequency noise exposure at 65 dBA in an acoustic room. After one hour of exposure, the subjects completed the Weinstein's Noise Sensitivity Scale, Loudness Perception Scale, and Noise Annoyance Scale. Data were analyzed using Mann-Whitney, Kruskal-Wallis test and the Multivariate Analysis of variance (MANOVA). Results: The results showed that the mean score of noise annoyance and loudness perception was significantly higher in the group with high noise sensitivity. Also, increasing the awareness of the harmful effects of noise significantly increased the level of annoyance and loudness perception of individuals. The results of MANOVA showed that noise sensitivity has a significant effect on both the response variables. Also, awareness of the harmful effects of noise only affects loudness perception. The interaction effect of two independent variables was not significant on any of the response variables .Conclusion: In general, it can be concluded that noise sensitivity and awareness of the harmful effects of noise are two important factors that exacerbate the annoyance caused by exposure to low-frequency noise.

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.

The prevalence of contagious viral-infectious diseases such as COVID19 cause the economic problems in addition to harmful effect on the people health. The present study was aimed to determine the contribution of hypochondria resulting from Corona virus on the occupational productivity loss through increased job stress and decreased resilience in the central workshop of an oil refinery. This cross-sectional study was conducted on 275 subjects in the spring of 2020 in one of the oil and gas industries in southern Iran. To collect the data, the demographic, standard hypochondria, CD-RSC resilience, job stress, productivity questionnaires were sent electronically along with a guide to completing them, as well as study objectives. People were given two weeks to complete the questionnaires and send them electronically to the research team. Participation rate was 80%. Finally, a model based on the defaults was developed in AMOS software and the relationships between the variables were examined. The results showed that corona hypochondria could affect productivity in two ways. In the first place, hypochondria significantly increases job stress, thereby reducing productivity. The indirect effect of hypochondria on productivity in this direction was -0.09. In another way, hypochondria significantly reduces resilience and thus lowers productivity. The effect of hypochondria on productivity was equal to -0.04. Based on the results, the fit of the drawn model was confirmed. The results of the study generally suggested that coronavirus disease has caused the spread of hypochondria mental disorder. Hypochondria could reduce the productivity of workers through two ways of increasing job stress and reducing workers' resilience.

Background: The purpose of this study was to assess the contrast perception of obstacles in a tunnel entrance which was placed in Ilam Province, Iran.Methods: An obstacle with the reflection coefficient of 20% was mounted at the entrance of thetunnel and then, the car was placed near the tunnel entrance and the intrinsic luminance of the road (Lr,intrinsic) and obstacle (Lo,intrinsic) were measured inside the car using the luminance meter.Results: Intrinsic luminance of obstacle and road at the entrance of the tunnel were measured as 41 and 17 cd/m2, respectively. The contrast perception of obstacle in deriver’s eyes and in the safe stopping distance (SSD) from the tunnel entrance was determined as 2.79 cd/m2. At the entrance of the studied tunnel, the contrast perception of obstacles with the reflection coefficient of 20% was lower than the minimum contrast perception (28%) recommended by International Commission on Illumination.Conclusion: The main conclusion that can be drawn from it, is that this obstacle in the SSD from the tunnel entrance cannot be conceived by the drivers, which may lead to higher rate of road traffic crashes.

Introduction: Chronic occupational noise exposure may constitute a risk factor for cardiovascular disease for workers. The aim of this study was to investigate the relationship between occupational noise exposure and noise annoyance with blood pressure, serum cholesterol and triglyceride levels in workers of a textile industry. Material and Method: This cross-sectional study was carried out among 220 employees of Savadkouh textile industry complex in Mazandaran province, Iran in 2017. To achieve the study objectives, the 8 -hour equivalent sound exposure level was measured and the cumulative noise exposure was calculated. Based on noise exposure level, workers were divided into control and case groups. Then, blood pressure was measured and blood samples were collected from each individual for determination of the serum cholesterol and triglyceride levels and they were transfered to the laboratory for further analysis. The noise annoyance scale and socio-demographic questionnaire were used to collect noise annoyance and other background and demographic information, respectively. Finally, Paired t-test, one-way ANOVA and multivariate regression were used to study the relationship between variables using SPSS Version 20. Result: In total, 159 workers participated in this study considering the inclusion and exclusion criteria. Eighty-three participants were exposed to more than or equal to 85 dBA, and 76 person were exposed to less than 85 dBA noise level, respectively. The results showed that mean blood pressure and cholesterol were significantly different between the control and case groups (P-value< 0.05). Based on multivariate regression results, noise exposure, cumulative noise exposure (CNE) and noise annoyance had a significant effect on blood pressure (P-value< 0.001). Cholesterol was also significantly affected by noise exposure and noise annoyance (P-value< 0.005). Conclusion: Based on the results of current study, noise can be considered as a risk factor for cardiovascular disease ampong workers. Actually, high intensity noise affect serum cholesterol and blood pressure directly, and may do indirectly by causing noise annoyance which acts as a mediator. Therefore, it seems necessary to conduct a controlled cohort study to investigating the interactions among whole variables of interest.

Introduction: DOF proteins are a family of plant-specific transcription factors with a conserved zinc finger (ZF) DNA-binding domain. Although several studies have demonstrated their specific DNA binding, quantitative affinity data is not available for the binding of DOF domains to their binding sites. Methods: ZF domains of DOF2.1, DOF3.4, and DOF5.8 from Arabidopsis thaliana were expressed and purified. Their DNA binding affinities were assessed using gel retardation assays and microscale thermophoresis with two different oligonucleotide probes containing one and two copies of recognition sequence AAAG. Results: DOF zinc finger domains (DOF-ZFs) were shown to form independently folded structures. Assessments using microscale thermophoresis demonstrated that DOF-ZFs interact more tightly (~ 100 fold) with double-motif probe than the single-motif probe. The overall Kd values for the DOF3.4-ZF and DOF5.8-ZF to the double-motif probe were ~2.3±1 and 2.5±1 µM, respectively. Conclusion: Studied DOF-ZF domains formed stable complexes with the double-motif probe. Although DOF3.4-ZF and DOF5.8-ZF do not dimerize with an appreciable affinity in the absence of DNA (judging from size-exclusion and multiangle laser light scattering data), it is possible that these ZFs form protein-protein contacts when bound to this oligonucleotide, consistent with previous reports that DOF proteins can homo- and hetero-dimerize.

Aims: In addition to the noise, sleep disturbance (SD) as an outcome of the exposure to the wind turbine noises (WTNs) can adversely affect general health. This study aimed to investigate the effect of SD induced from WTNs on general health indicators. Materials and Methods: A total number of fifty tree workers from Manjil wind farm voluntarily participated in this study. Based on the job similarity and vicinity to the sound sources, workers were classified into three occupational groups including repairman, security, and official staff. Individual's health and sleep status were gathered using the 28-item General Health Questionnaire and Epworth Sleepiness Scales, respectively. Noise was measured based on ISO 9612. ANOVA, Chi-square, and linear and multiple regression tests were used for data analysis in the SPSS 20 software environment. Results: The mean values of 8-h equivalent continuous A-weighted sound pressure level (LAeq, 8 h) among whole workers was 71 ± 10 dB (A). The averages of somatic symptom, anxiety insomnia, social dysfunction, depression, and general health among the participants were 5 ± 2.44, 7 ± 2.35, 11 ± 2.65, 2 ± 1.54, 22 ± 6.53, and 7.3 ± 3.1, respectively. According to the results, SD and noise exposure had an adverse health effect on physical symptoms, depression, and overall general health of participants. Moreover, SD and work experience were effective factors on anxiety-insomnia. SD had greatest effect on general health when all variables are controlled, so that general health will increase by 2.42 units for each unit increase of SD. Conclusion: We found that in addition to the sound effect, noise-induced SD also affects worker's health and strengthen sound effects on human well-being.

Objectives: Of all work stressors, occupational stress is the leading cause of many disorders among workers. Drivers are classified as a high risk group for work related stress. This study set out to determine the relationship between risk factors of cardiovascular diseases and occupational stress among drivers. Material and Methods: Two hundred and twenty two Ilam’s intercity drivers were selected for the study. For measuring work stress, the Osipow work stress questionnaire was used. After a 10-h fasting period, systolic and diastolic blood pressure was recorded. Intravenous blood samples were taken to determine cholesterol, triglyceride and blood glucose levels. The independent samples t-test and Pearson’s correlation test were used to assess the relationship between variables and occupational stress. Results: Seventy-one percent of the intercity drivers suffered from average to acute stress, and 3.1% of them suffered from acute stress. There was no significant relationship between occupational stress and diastolic blood pressure (p = 0.254) among the drivers. Nevertheless, the Pearson’s correlation test demonstrated a strong relationship between work stress and blood glucose (p < 0.01), while no strong correlation was found for blood triglycerides and cholesterol levels. Conclusions: Based on the results, high rates of occupational stress were observed in the Ilam’s intercity drivers. Occupational stress may have effect on blood glucose levels but the results did not suggest a considerable relationship between risk factors of cardiovascular diseases and occupational stress among intercity drivers. Int J Occup Med Environ Health 2016;29(6):895–901

Noise, emitted by wind turbines, is one of the main health risk factors which has been recently considered in many researches. Noise annoyance is among the most important human responses to noise. The aim of this work was to modeling of annoyance due to noise at workplace coming from wind turbines in workers. All workers of a wind power plant consisted the study sample. The equivalent noise level was measured using a task-based method. Moreover, data related to noise annoyance and noise sensitivity were acquired by standardized methods. Based on the results, noise exposure, noise sensitivity, visibility, age, and experience affected noise annoyance. According to path analysis, the most indirect and direct effect on noise annoyance were attributed to noise exposure. Age, sensitivity, and noise exposure were positively associated to annoyance. It can be concluded that there is a significant relationship between age, experience, sensitivity to noise, and exposure to the wind turbine noise with noise annoyance.

Introduction: Quality of Working Life (QWL) is a vital concept in the employees’ life which can confirm the efficiency of the organisation and job satisfaction of employees. Aim: The present study investigated the interactive effects of background variables (job and demographic characteristics) and workload parameters on the Work-Related Quality of Life (WRQoL) among nurses working in highly complex hospital units (ICU, CCU and Emergency). Materials and Methods: This was a cross-sectional study conducted in 2017, among all male and female volunteer nurses (n=840). For this purpose, NASA-Task Load Index (NASA-TLX) and WRQoL were used. A general questionnaire was also used to collect the job and demographic information of nurses. The statistical analyses were performed through MANOVA, tests between-subject’s effects, Box’s M, pair-wise comparisons, Bonferroni method, and multiple regression. Results: The findings indicated that the difference in mean score of WRQoL was statistically significant in all groups of the studied background variables except gender and Body Mass Index (BMI). The relationship between the variables of age, work experience, and the number of patients per shift and scores of work-related quality of life was statistically significant. Also, based on the results of multivariate regression analysis, the variables of overtime hours, the number of patients per shift, age, and the level of workload remained in the regression model and their coefficients of influence were estimated -43%, -23%, -19%, and -15%, respectively. Conclusion: The results indicated the simultaneous effect of the studied variables on the nurses’ WRQoL. Of these, the variables of overtime hours, the number of patients per shift, age, and workload level were finally kept in the regression model to explain the most percentage of changes in the WRQoL.

Introduction: High level of workload and its consequent cognitive failures are among factors which impact nurses’ behavior, performance, and efficiency. This study aimed to investigate the relationship between nurses’ cognitive failures and perceived workload. Material and Method: This cross-sectional and descriptive-analytical study was carried out among 150 male and female nurses, working in different units of Emam Khomeini and Vali-e-Asr hospitals in Tehran in 2013. NASA task load index (NASA-TlX) and Cognitive Failure Questionnaire (CFQ) were used to assess workload and cognitive failures, respectively. Data were analyzed using Pearson Correlation, Independent sample t-test, and one-way ANOVA statistical tests with SPSS software version 20. Result: Pearson and Spearman correlation coefficients test results showed a significant relationship between nurses’ mental workload and their memory for names (P-value

Introduction: Frequent nursing errors are considered as factors that affect the quality of healthcare of patients. Capable nurses who are compatible with work conditions are more focused on their tasks, and this reduces their errors and cognitive failures. Therefore, this study was conducted with the aim of investigating the relationship between work ability index (WAI) and cognitive failures (CFs) as well as some factors that affect them in nurses working in the ICU, CCU, and emergency wards. Methods: This descriptive-analytical and cross-sectional study was conducted with 750 nurses at educational hospitals affiliated with the Tehran University of Medical Sciences in 2015. A questionnaire of work ability index and cognitive failures was used to collect data. The data were analyzed using SPSS 20 and the Pearson and Spearman correlation coefficients, chi-squared, ANOVA, and the Kruskal-Wallis tests. Results: Using the Pearson correlation test, the results of this study showed that there is a significant, inverse relationship between WAI, personal prognosis of work ability, and mental resources with CFs along with all its subscales in nurses (p < 0.05). In addition, there was an inverse and significant relationship between the total score of CFs and the estimated work impairment due to diseases (p < 0.05). There was a significant positive correlation of CFs with age and experience, while WAI was inversely related to age, work experience, and body mass index (BMI) (p < 0.05). WAI and CFs were related significantly to working units (p < 0.05). Conclusion: Considering the results obtained in this study, WAI and the cognitive status of nurses were lower than the specified limit. It is suggested that the work ability of nurses be improved and that their CFs be reduced through various measures, including pre-employment examinations, proper management of work-shift conditions, and using engineering and administrative strategies to ensure the safety of hospitalized patients.

Introduction: Occupational noise exposure is one of the main risk factor that affects the health and sleeping pattern of the workers. Textile machines produce a high level of noise that can cause adverse health effects in workers. Aim: This study was conducted to investigate the effects of occupational noise exposure on sleep among the workers of textile industry. Materials and Methods: The present cross-sectional study was conducted on 60 workers of textile industry located in the Savadkuh city, Iran. In this study, Epworth Sleepiness Scale (ESS) and an author-developed questionnaire was used to collect the data. Eight-hour equivalent noise level was measured to assess worker’s noise exposure based on ISO 9612:2009. Data were examined by Mann-Whitney test and Kruskal-Wallis test, simple liner regression and stepwise multiple regression test. Results: The mean±SD of equivalent sound level, age and experience was 94±4.1 dB, 35±7.6 years and 10±6.2 years, respectively. The results of Kruskal-Wallis test showed that higher age and duration of work experience were significantly associated with sleep disturbance. The results of MannWhitney test showed that history of sedative drug use, marital status and use of Hearing Protective Devices (HPDs) were significantly associated with sleep disturbance. The mean sleep disturbance was significantly different between history of hypnotic drug use, marital status and HPDs. The stepwise multiple regression test showed that age, noise exposure, marital status, use of HPDs and history of sedative drug use could predict 87% of sleep changes. Conclusion: The results of the present study confirm that, among many factors affecting worker’s sleep, noise exposure plays an important role. It is suggested that the managers and the manufacturers should motivate the workers to use HPDs, thereby controlling the noise exposure and subsequently sleep disturbance in the workers.

Background: Work ability of nurses is an index of their job satisfaction and is a crucial factor in job quality and security. This study aimed to investigate the association between work ability and quality of working life and to determine the effective demographic and background variables, among nurses. Methods: The present study was conducted among nurses, working in educational hospitals under the supervision of Tehran University of Medical Sciences in 2014. Work Ability Index (WAI) and Work-related Quality of Life (WRQoL) were used. Results: The mean WAI was significantly associated with total WRQoL score and the two of its sub-items including Stress at Work, and General Well-Being (P-value=0.001). Moreover, the results showed a significant correlation between total WRQoL and WAI Subscales including mental resources (P-value=0.001), number of current diseases (P-value=0.02), and work ability in relation to the job demands (P-value=0.04). The WRQoL and WAI showed significant associations with age and job experience (P-value=0.001). The average score of WAI and WRQoL was statistically different among various working units (P-value=0.001). Conclusion: Overall, results support the association between nurses work ability and WRQoL. Monitoring the WRQoL and work ability of employees would help organizations to know their status and take measures to ameliorate the working conditions.