Journal of Health Research in Community

1-13

Authors: Majid Kermani , Ali Esrafili , Roghaye Piri , Nastaran Asadzadeh Seyedeh

Introduction and purpose: Chlorophenol is known as one of the toxic and dangerous pollutants in industrial wastewaters that’s a essential to it’s removal from industrial wastewaters and ground waters. The aim of this study was to investigate the efficiency of 4-Chlorophenol (4-CP) degradation using Ultraviolet/Hydrogen Peroxide process (UV/H2O2). Methods: The variables of the present study included initial concentration of pollutant, contact time, pH, and H2O2 concentration on 4-Chlorophenol removal on a laboratory scale. The concentration of residual 4-Chlorophenol was determined using UV/Visible at a wavelength of 280nm. In addition, the amount of mineralization in optimal conditions was evaluated using the measurement of total organic carbon (TOC) removal range according to the standard method 5310- B. Synthetic models of the process were also investigated. Results: The optimum removal efficiency of 4-CP by UV/H2O2 process regarding the concentration of hydrogen peroxide was 580 mg/L. pH of 3 and initial 4-CP concentration was obtained as 380 mg/L, and the presence of UV rays with a wavelength of 254 nm during 30m contact was 84.92% . In addition, 84.69% of the TOC was removed under the optimal condition. Moreover ,it was found that the data followed the first-order synthetic models. Conclusion: Considering the growing use of UV radiation in water treatment processes and the considerable efficiency of UV/ H2O2 process in removing 4-CP, this method can be proposed for the elimination of 4-CP after performing cost-benefit analyses. It can be concluded that with regard to purification goals and standards for wastewater treatment, UV/ H2O2 process can be used as a pre or final treatment.

23-32

Authors: Somayeh Samani , Maryam Ghaljahi

Introduction and purpose: Musculoskeletal disorders (MSDs) are among the most important causes of disinclination to work and reduced work incentives and can lead to occupational stress over time. The purpose of this study was to investigate the relationship between the prevalence of MSDs and occupational stress among rural carpet weavers in Sistan and Baluchestan, Iran. Methods: This descriptive analytical study was conducted on 100 female carpet weavers living in four villages of Sistan province. The study population was selected through convenience sampling technique. The estimation of the prevalence of MSDs and job stress was accomplished using the Nodric questionnaire for Psychological and Social Factors at Work. Data analysis was performed in SPSS software (version 16) using t-test and Pearson correlation coefficient.Results: According to the results, the female carpet weavers had a high level of occupational stress. The most frequent MSD was observed in the upper back (98%), while the least frequent one was related to the knee disorders (45%). Occupational stress showed a positive relationship with MSDs and their components (except for the three components of the hip, knee, and leg) (P=0.001).Conclusion: Based on the findings of the research, it is essential to take effective measures to reduce occupational stress among rural female carpet weavers. Furthermore, considering the effect of six out of nine components of MSDs on occupational stress, the consideration of the improvement and proper design of the workplace, mental and emotional needs of carpet weavers, proper way of siting and mobility, and exercise at certain times can effectively reduce occupational stress and skeletal disorders.

39-46

Authors: Marzieh Kolahkaj , Sedigheh Battalebloie

Introduction and purpose: High accumulation of heavy metals in food chain at critical doze has detrimental effects on the living organisms. Regarding the fact that rice is highly consumed as a main dish in Iran, this study aimed to investigate the level of cadmium and lead in Meydavood rice, as well as their effects on the inhabitants of this region. Methods: This study was conducted on 10 rice samples from Meydavood farmlands, located in Khoozestan Province, Iran. After preparation, samples were analyzed for lead and cadmium using inductively coupled plasma mass spectrometry. The levels of lead and cadmium doses in daily rice consumption for each person (110 grams for 70 kg body weight) were calculated using SPSS statistical software. Results: The mean concentrations of cadmium and lead in rice samples were 0.02 and 1.07 mg/kg, respectively. Based on the obtained results, the level of cadmium was lower and the level of lead was higher than the standard level proposed by the World Health Organization (WHO). The total weekly intake of cadmium and lead through rice consumption was evaluated based on provisional tolerable daily intake determined by WHO/Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO). Conclusion: According to provisional tolerable daily intake, it can be concluded that the daily intake of cadmium and lead through rice was in the standard range recommended by WHO and FAO. In addition, it is important to have a healthy diet to protect the health of the inhabitants due to the high levels of cadmium and lead in rice samples, and other agricultural products.

57-67

Authors: Ramazan ali Dianati tilaki , Mohammad Mahmoudi

Introduction and purpose: Groundwaters provide the main source of drinking water in Mazandaran province; however, the high concentration of soluble salts and hardness in these waters result in probable sedimentation and corrosion in water distribution systems of these areas. Therefore, the aim of this study was to determine the sedimentation and corrosion potential in the drinking water resources in Amol, Babol, Ghaemshahr, Sari, and Neka in the second and first halves of 2015 and 2016, respectively. Methods: A total of 192 water samples from selected cities of Mazandaran province were tested using determining parameters of sedimentation and corrosion indices by a standard method. The indices, such as Langelier saturation, Ryznar stability, Puckorius scaling, Aggressive, and Larson-Skold were determined using relevant data. Results: The results of the study showed that out of 192 analyzed samples in the surveyed cities, 76 and 81.3 % of them had the sedimentation propertiesand potentials considering Ryznar stability and Langelier saturation indices, respectively. With regard to Puckorius scaling index, sedimentation potential was observed in 68.8 % of water samples. Aggressive and Larson-Skold indices have also showed sedimentation properties of water. Conclusion: It can be concluded that the drinking water in the water distribution systems of these cities has relatively sedimentation properties

1-11

Authors: Farin Fatemi , Mahdi Mohammadiyan

Introduction and purpose: Surgeons are exposed to different risk factors for musculoskeletal disorders (MSDs) due to their occupational nature. The aim of the current research was to investigate the ergonomics of surgeons during laparoscopic and open surgeries and present applicable ergonomic strategies for the reduction of MSDs risk factors among this population.Methods: This cross-sectional study was conducted on 85 surgeons, performing laparoscopic and open surgeries, in one of the general hospitals of Tehran, Iran, in 2016. The participants were assessed by means of two ergonomic assessment methods, namely Rapid Upper Limb Assessment (RULA) and Strain Index (SI). Additionally, they filled out the Nordic body map questionnaire. Finally, the equipment and environmental conditions of the operation rooms were also evaluated. The data were analyzed using Excel and SPSS software.Results: The highest MSD prevalence rate was related to the lumber (76.4%) and neck (64.7%). Furthermore, laparoscopic surgery had the upper risk level of MSDs; in this regard, this risk was obtained as 72% and 86% by RULA and SI methods, respectively. Furthermore, among the laparoscopic surgeries, neck posture risk level was significantly different from that of the open surgeries in the RULA approach (P<0.05). Likewise, in the SI method, the risk level of the wrist in laparoscopic surgeries was significantly different from that of the open surgeries (P<0.05).Conclusion: As the findings of the present study indicated, the risk level of laparoscopic operation was higher than that of the open surgeries. However, much non-compliance in terms of the surgeons and non-ergonomic equipment was observed with ergonomic instructions in both of the mentioned operations. Therefore, it is suggested to adopt ergonomic corrective measures with the priority of laparoscopic surgeries in order to prevent MSDs among surgeons.

27-34

Authors: Rajabali Hokmabadi , Hamid Tavakoli , Morteza Morteza esmailzade , Hossien Ebrahimyan

Introduction and purpose: Today, occupational stress is an outcome of occupational processes, factors, and conditions. The bus driver job is one of the most stressful occupations. The main objective of this study was the assessment of occupational stress level in Bojnurd city-bus drivers. Methods: This cross-sectional, descriptive-analytical study was performed on 61 bus drivers in the city of Bojnurd, Iran, who were chosen using the simple random sampling method in 2016. The data were gathered using Philip el Rice standard job stress questionnaire. Data analysis was performed in SPSS version 18. Results: The results showed that all the drivers were male and married. The mean age of the subjects was 41±5 years, and the average working experience was 12±5 years. The average occupational stress score in drivers was 147.5±24.8. The results indicated that 97% of the drivers were under high stress. In addition, the results showed a significant relationship between job stress and work shift. However, there was not any significant association between job stress and other variables such as age, work experience, educational level, and employment type. Conclusion: High stress level in the studied drivers indicated that the implementation of a comprehensive stress management program is required.

49-64

Authors: Atena Ramezani - , Atefeh Ramezani -

Introduction and purpose: There are several important factors for prevention of cardiovascular diseases (CVD). Out of all, diet modification has a great amount of efficacy. However, the genetic differences in individuals make diet effects dissimilar in various people. In fact, the difference in metabolic responses of individuals to foods due to different genotypes is known as noregenetics. Nutrigenomics represents a suitable approach to CVD prevention and treatment through optimization of individuals’ dietary intakes based on genotype.Methods: This review study was conducted to investigate the most important polymorphisms associated with CVD risk factors. To this end, the English articles related to polymorphism and expression of the genes involved in CVDs and inflammation having been published since 2000 were searched in Pubmed, Science direct, Google scholar.The search process was accomplished using the following keywords: “Nutrigenetics”, “Gene”, “Polymorphism”, “Diet therapy”, and “Cardiovascular disease”.Results: Understanding the interaction of genes and nutrients requires tools for the study of Nitrigenomics, Noregenetics, and phenotypic characteristics. The human genome project revealed small changes in single polymorphism Nucleotide is called Single-nucleotide Polymorphism (SNPS) and it's happening in the genes. These changes in the genotype cause a change in function due to the activation of the gene.In a review of studies, it was found that SNPS not only clearly affects the level of cytokine production in humans; But also plays a very close role in mortality in a wide range of diseases. In the present study, the most important polymorphisms associated with risk factors for cardiovascular disease are discussed.Conclusion: Therefore, from the perspective of health, knowledge in the field of prevention and treatment of diseases, heart arteries, and general dietary recommendations can be applied to each particular genotype group.

79-88

Authors: Seyed Aboalhassan Naghibi , Mahbubeh Ahmadi , Farzaneh Afkhaminia

Introduction and purpose: Anemia is one of the most common nutritional disorders in the world and is often associated with iron deficiency. Iron deficiency anemia causes waste of educational resources and health care, reduction of productivity through increased mortality, and finally the reduction of physical and psychological capacity in a large part of society. Regarding this, the present study was conducted to determine the knowledge, attitude, and practice of female junior high school students in Neka city, Iran, about iron deficiency in 2016. Methods: This cross-sectional study was conducted on 480 junior high school students in Neka, who were educating during 2016. The study population was selected through multi-stage sampling technique. The data collection tools included a questionnaire covering demographic data and assessing the knowledge (18 items), attitude (14 items), and performance (9 items) about iron deficiency. The collected data were analyzed using descriptive and inferential statistics, including independent t-test and one-way ANOVA, in SPSS software (version 20). Results: According to the results, the mean age of the students was 12.91±0.79. In this study, 17.1%, 38.3%, and 1.9% of the students had good level of knowledge, attitude, performance regarding iron deficiency, respectively. The results also revealed a significant relationship between paternal education level and knowledge score (P=0.001). Furthermore, maternal education showed a significant relationship with knowledge (P=0.001) and performance (P=0.019). There was also a significant difference between the different levels of paternal occupation in terms of the mean score of knowledge (P=0.001) and performance (P=0.002). However, maternal occupation demonstrated no significant relationship with knowledge, attitude, and performance.Conclusion: As the findings indicated, the knowledge of the majority of students about iron deficiency was at a moderate level; however, most of them had a poor performance in this regard. Therefore, in line with the Health Promoting School programs, the design of family-centered and school-based interventional programs is recommended to empower parents, students, and school about iron deficiency anemia.

1-11

Authors: Ahmad Jonidi Jafari , Mahdi Farzadkia , Mitra Gholami , Mina Mohagheghi

Introduction and purpose: The growing trend of using antibiotics to control human and animal diseases and lack of attention to the disposal of medical, hospital, and pharmaceutical industry wastes have led to the emergence of environmental problems. regarding this, the present study was conducted to determine the antibiotic degradation of ciprofloxacin during the composting process. Methods: The present experimental study was conducted using a mixture of livestock manure, fruit residue, straw, and sludge to prepare compost over 40 days. Ciprofloxacin was added to the compost reactors at three concentrations of 20, 50, and 100 mg/kg. The temperature, humidity, carbon to nitrogen ratio, and pH of the compost were monitored, and reactor sampling was performed weekly. The analysis of antibiotics was accomplished using a high-performance liquid chromatography. The data were analyzed through the one-way ANOVA in the SPSS software (version 22). Results: According to the results, the rates of ciprofloxacin degradation at day 21 and end of the thermophilic phase were 89.47, 88.81, and 86.46% in reactors 20, 50, and 100 mg/kg, respectively. At the end of the process, all three reactors had the removal rate of 99.99%. Moreover, the physio-chemical properties of the final compost were within the national standard. Conclusion: As the findings indicated, the use of aerobic composting process to degrade ciprofloxacin is an economical, effective, and environmentally friendly method. Accordingly, at the end of the process, 99.99% of ciprofloxacin was degraded.

21-32

Authors: Somayeh Rahdar , Shahin Ahmadi

Introduction and purpose: Aniline is a simple aromatic compound that has a wide application in various industries. This compound has mutagenic and carcinogenic properties. Given the solubility and high toxicity of aniline, the entrance of this compound into the surface and ground water can endanger human and environment and disturb aqueous species life . Regarding this, the present study was conducted to investigate the elimination of aniline from aqueous solutions by means of Arachis hypogaea ash.Methods: The equilibrium adsorption level was determined as a function of the solution pH (i.e., 3, 5, 7, 9, and 11), contact time (i.e., 20-150 min), adsorbent doses (i.e., 0.4, 0.6, 0.8, 1, 1.2, and 1.5 g/L), and aniline initial concentration (i.e., 20-150 mg/L). Adsorption kinetic was assessed using pseudo first order, pseudo second order, and Elovich kinetics.Results: According to the results, Arachis hypogaea ash was capable of reducing aniline by 65% at the pH of 7, initial aniline concentration of 90 mg/ L, contact time of 120 min, and dosage of 0.8 g/L. Regarding the adsorption kinetics, and a second-order equation resulted in the achievement of the best fit. Conclusion: As the finding indicated, Arachis hypogaea ash as an inexpensive absorbent was a quite effective substance for the removal of aniline from water and wastewater.

41-50

Authors: Simin Haghravan , Mohammad Alizadeh , Elahe Forumandi , Mahsa Mohajeri

Introduction and purpose: Bread is of particular importance as a supplier of portions of calories, proteins, vitamins, and minerals needed by the body. According to the reasoned action theory, attitudes and subjective norms are factors that influence the individual's intention to do one's behavior and ultimately to do that behavior. Since consumers prefer packed bread to non-packed bread, we aimed to design a valid questionnaire on the factors affecting the use of packed bread compared to non-packed using the reasoned action theory. Methods: This was a cross-sectional, descriptive, analytical study. We designed a questionnaire according to the theory of reasoned action and based on three sessions of focused group discussion and interviews with nutrition specialists. Content and face validity of the scale was established by a panel of 11 experts. To confirm the reliability of the scale, Cronbach’s alpha coefficient was applied. Results: The first draft of the questionnaire contained 51 items. After determining the validity and reliability of the items, 44 items remained, 17 of which were on attitude, 10 on subjective norms, 9 on behavioral intention, and 8 on nutritional behavior. For the final questionnaire, the average content validity index was calculated to be 0.90 and Cronbach’s Alpha coefficient was 0.83. Conclusion: The results suggested that the developed questionnaire is a valid and reliable tool, and it can be used to identify the factors affecting consumers' preferences regarding the use of packed bread compared to non-packed bread using the reasoned action theory.

63-74

Authors: Shokooh Karimi , Farzaneh Afkhaminia , Fereshteh Talebpour Amiri

Introduction and purpose: Lifestyle is one of the most important indicators of improvement in the quality of life. Given the important role of staff as a valuable human resource, we aimed to determine different dimensions of lifestyle in employees of Mazandaran University of Medical Sciences, azandaran, Iran, in 2017. Methods: A descriptive cross-sectional study of 186 employees was carried out. The participants were chosen through the stratified random sampling method. The Life Style Questionnaire (LSQ) was used to evaluate lifestyle. To analyze the data, we used descriptive statistics, t-test, Chi-square test, Spearman correlation coefficient, and linear regression test in SPSS. Results: The mean score of staff lifestyle was 206±22.21 (out of a total of 272 points). The lifestyle status in 59.4% of the cases was good. The lowest score was related to exercise and health. Women had higher scores in the prevention of accidents and men obtained higher scores in the domain of exercise and health. There was a significant relationship between gender and exercise and health (P=0.026), marital status and avoidance of medications and illicit drugs (P=0.036), age and prevention of accidents (P=0.005), body mass index and overall lifestyle status of the staff (P=0.004), weight control and nutrition (P=0.001), as well as disease prevention and spiritual health (P=0.001). Conclusion: Although the majority of employees had a moderate and good lifestyle, the domains of exercise and health, weight, and nutrition were not in a desirable status. We recommend adopting proper interventions for improving staff health in these domains.

1-11

Authors: Mohammad Baaghideh , Fahimeh Shakeri , Fatemeh Mayvaneh

Introduction and purpose: Thermal comfort conditions are a set of thermal conditions that can be appropriate for at least 80% of people. The absence of thermal comfort conditions is considered as a bipolar phenomenon of cold to warm or hot discomfort, which creates different levels of thermal stress. In this comparative study, we analyzed the temporal and spatial distributions of thermal stresses on the north and south coasts of Iran with a focus on health and tourism. Methods: In the present study, we used the daily data of temperature, wind speed, relative humidity, and cloud cover from 2000 to 2014. First, the mean radiant temperature (TMRT) parameter was calculated in the RayMan software program, and then the universal thermal climate index (UTCI) values were extracted from 16 selected stations on the north and south coasts using the Bioclima software. Results: During the warm period, the most severe thermal stresses occurred on the south coast, especially on islands, but on the north coast, only cold stresses were recorded that were not of high severity. The most severe hot and cold stresses were calculated for Abu Musa Island and Siah Bishe, respectively. Conclusion: There are several levels of thermal stress on the north and south coasts of Iran. This issue is more intense for the southern coast due to severe thermal stresses over a long period of time. The importance of thermal stresses in the concepts of health and tourism requires researchers to pay attention to the related climatic parameters and tensions.

25-33

Authors: Musculoskeletal disorders, NASA-TLX, Nordic questionnaire, Workload

Introduction and purpose: Workload can be defined as the worker’s required capacity to fulfill a special level of performance while doing a task. Workload depends on the type of occupation and its task repetition, intensity, duration, and psychological factors. The increase in workload can result in the enhancement of musculoskeletal disorders. Regarding this, the aim of the present study was to evaluate the relationship of musculoskeletal disorders with workload among the worker of a Ceramic and Tile Factory. Methods: This cross-sectional, descriptive-analytical study was conducted on 65 workers of a Ceramic and Tile Factory in Neyshabur, Khorasan Province, Iran. The data were collected using the Nordic Musculoskeletal Questionnaire and NASA Task Load Index (NASA-TLX). Data analysis was performed in SPSS, version 20, using descriptive statistics, Pearson correlation coefficient, Spearman’s rank order correlation, and independent samples t-test. Results: The results of NASA-TLX demonstrated that the mean scores of performance and efficiency, frustration, and physical demands were 87±18.02, 76±26.67, and 75±23.43, respectively, representing desirable levels. In this index, the lowest mean score was related to effort (51±30.6) was the lowest score. The highest prevalence of musculoskeletal symptoms (63%) was observed in the lower back region in the past 12 months. Furthermore, workload showed a significant correlation with musculoskeletal discomfort in the lower back region (P<0.001) and shoulder, upper back, wrist, knee, and hip (P<0.05). Conclusion: The findings were indicative of high levels of workload and musculoskeletal disorders among the participants. The results of this study showed that workload is one of the important risk factors for upper extremity musculoskeletal disorders, which requires further investigation.

46-57

Authors: Somayeh Parvin , Nima Daneshi , Mehdi Jamshidi , Mohammad Alizadeh Barzian , Kazem Alizadeh Barzian

Introduction and purpose: Progress and technology have improved the management of infectious diseases and life expectancy on the one hand, and increased the prevalence of non-communicable diseases on the other. Today, the most serious challenges people face are accidents and toxicities, particularly traffic accidents that account for 12% of the global burden of disease and are the third leading cause of premature death in Iran. Accordingly, we performed an epidemiologic study on traffic accidents in Behbahan city, Iran, during 2006-2014. Methods: This retrospective, descriptive, and cross-sectional study was performed among the victims of traffic accidents that were referred to the emergency department of Behbahan hospital in Behbahan city. Patient information including age and gender were collected and analyzed using SPSS 17. Results: During 2006-2014, a total of 55,108 casualties were recorded in Behbahan city, 26,798 (48.5%) of which were caused by traffic accidents. Car accidents, motorist accidents, and pedestrian accidents accounted for 30.9%, 58.8%, and 10.3% of the accidents. The prevalence rate of traffic accidents was 14 in 1000 cases, and the mortality rate was 29 in 100,000 cases. During this period, 7,814 cases of mortality were recorded, 826 (10.6%) of which were associated with accidents with traffic accidents accounting for 520 cases (62.9%). Further, 40% of the mortalities due to traffic accidents occurred on the scene of accident, while transferring to hospital, or in the casualty department. Conclusion: The findings of this study showed that traffic accidents, casualties and mortalities, especially motorist accidents, are a major health and social problem in Behbahan city. Thus, taking the necessary measures to control and manage this major health threat is andatory.

70-81

Authors: Niloofar Karimi , Valiollah Dabidi Roshan , Afshin Fayaz movaghar

Introduction and purpose: Lifestyle is one of the most important factors affecting the quality of life, including cardiovascular diseases. Regarding this, the aim of this study was to investigate the association of abdominal obesity with demographic factors and cardiovascular fitness in Babolsar, Iran. Methods: This study was conducted on 150 women and men residing in Babolsar. The study population was selected using simple random sampling technique through a recall. The data were collected using demographic form, pedometer (to evaluate the physical activity level), body mass index (BMI; to assess abdominal obesity), waste hip ratio (WHR), and body adiposity index (BAI). The data were analyzed using Chi-square test, Pearson correlation, and ANOVA. P-value less than 0.05 was considered statistically significant. Results: According to the results, peak oxygen uptake was indirectly associated with BMI, WHR, and BAI in both genders (P<0.001). On the other hand, there was a direct relationship between these variables and age (P<0.001). Furthermore, a direct correlation was observed between WHR and the marital status of the women (P=0.008). Additionally, BMI levels had a nonsignificant increase with the enhancement of age and decline of education level. Conclusion: The promotion of peoples’ awareness about abdominal obesity and its associated factors and their encouragement to perform physical activity can be effective in reducing the prevalence of abdominal obesity and its comorbidities.

1-16

Authors: Mohsen Mirzaei , Safar Marofi , Eisa Solgi , Mozhgan Abbasi , Roohollah Karimi

Introduction and purpose: The consumption of agricultural products cultivated in soils contaminated with heavy metals is very health-threatening. Therefore, the implementation of an inclusive and multilateral assessment of the heavy metal risk on the verge of their entrance to the food chain is a matter of fundamental importance. Regarding this, the present study was conducted with the aim of monitoring the concentration of heavy metals in the surface soil of grape gardens and zoning the area in terms of geoaccumulation index (Igeo), contamination factor, degree of contamination, modified degree of contamination (MDC), pollution load index (PLI), and ecological risk index (RI). Methods: For the purpose of the study, 31 grape gardens were selected in Gahru region (i.e., the main center of grape production) through simple random sampling technique. The surface soil samples were transferred to the laboratory for the analysis of the concentration of cadmium, lead, chromium, copper, and zinc. Results: According to the results, the concentration of the metals in the region was Zn > Cu > Pb > Cr > Cd with the mean total concentrations of 74.87, 55.31, 22.32, 9.81, and 0.91 mg/kg, respectively. Based on the results of the PLI, six grape gardens were classified as insignificantly contaminated (1≤PLI≤2), and the remaining gardens were classified as noncontaminated (PLI<1). In additon, the results of the RI revealed that 3, 4, and 24 gape gardens had significant (RI>300), medium (150Conclusion: In the present study, the Igeo and MDC had higher efficiency and flexibility in the classification of the area in terms of critical metals and critical stations. Meanwhile, cadmium and copper caused the highest concern in some of the grape gardens of the investigated region. Therefore, it is suggested to prevent the entrance of larger amounts of cadmium in the area by training and raising the awareness of the gardeners about the amount of phosphate fertilizers and fungicide and encouraging them to use animal manures and take preventive measures. In addition, the cadmium contamination in the area should be reduced by implementing a soil refinery program and cultivating cadmium adsorbents.

26-34

Authors: Pouran Morovati , Fathollah Gholami Borujeni

Introduction and purpose: Improper management of healthcare waste (HCW) can pose considerable risks to human health and the environment and cause serious problems in developing countries such as Iran. In this study, we sought to determine the hazards of HCW in the public hospitals affiliated to Abadan School of Medicine using the preliminary hazard analysis (PHA) method. Methods: In this descriptive and analytic study, health risk assessment of HCW in government hospitals affiliated to Abadan School of Medicine (4 public hospitals) was carried out by using PHA in the summer of 2016. Results: We noted the high risk of sharps and infectious wastes. Considering the dual risk of injury and disease transmission, sharps were classified in the very high-risk group, and pharmaceutical and chemical and radioactive wastes were classified in the medium-risk group. Sharps posed the highest risk, while pharmaceutical and chemical wastes had the lowest risk. Among the various stages of waste management, the waste treatment stage was the most hazardous in all the studied hospitals. Conclusion: To diminish the risks associated with healthcare waste management in the studied hospitals, adequate training of healthcare workers and care providers, provision of suitable personal protective and transportation equipment, and supervision of the environmental health manager of hospitals should be considered by the authorities.

44-54

Authors: Hossein Alidadi , Somayeh Etemadi mashhadi , Aliasghar Najafpoor , Batool Moheb rad

Introduction and purpose: Energy consumption is on a rapidly growing trend in the world. Accordingly, the non-renewable energy sources are expected to be run out in the future. This issue has resulted in the establishment of efforts targeted toward the development of new energy-generating methods around the world. Biogas energy is one of the new and clean energies that is produced from the anaerobic digestion of biomass wastes. Anaerobic digestion is a cost-effective and environment-friendly method, which facilitates fertilizer and biogas production as well as landfill leachate treatment. Given the high environmental hazards of leachate and its mixture with animal wastes, the present study aimed to estimate the possibility of producing biogas in various mixture ratios. Methods: In this pilot-scale experimental study, the landfill leachate of Mashhad, Iran, were mixed with caw fresh dung in different ratios, but same conditions, under anaerobic digestion. This was conducted to consider the ability to produce methane gas in different proportions and landfill leachate. At the beginning and end of the project, the parameters of EC, pH, VS, TS, COD, TOC, P, K, N, and Na were measured. Additionally, the composition of the gases produced under different operating conditions was analyzed using gas chromatography mass spectrometry. Results: Gas production began three weeks after uploading and continued for five weeks. The analysis of gas production in three ratios was indicative of the CH4 production in all three proportions. In this regard, 1/1 ratio produced the highest percentage of CH4. No gas production was observed in the two months of study. Other physical and chemical parameters, such as COD, TS, TKN, and TOC were reduced in the given mixtures during the biogas production procedure. For instance, the case with 1/1 ratio, which showed the best results, had almost 80% decrease in the given parameters. However, no gas production or change of parameters were observed in the control sample (leachate), which was examined for two months. Conclusion: The findings of the study revealed the possibility of producing biogas out of the mixture of waste leachate and animal wastes. Biogas reduces the risk of waste leachate disposal to the environment and facilitates the production of fertilizers containing nutrients (e.g., Na, K, N, and P), which are standard regarding such parameter as pH, EC, C/N, and reduced VS. Moreover, these gases are cost-effective and environment-friendly.

67-74

Authors: Siavosh Etemadi neZhad , Fereshteh Rostami , Jamshid Yazdani charati , Fatemeh Soghra Yousufi golafshani

Introduction and purpose: Absenteeism is defined as being absent from work without a good reason. Sick leave among healthcare providers can have serious negative impacts on organizational performance. This study was conducted to determine the prevalence and causes of sick leave in the healthcare system of Joibar, Iran. Methods: This analytical cross-sectional study was performed on all employees of the healthcare system of Joibar, Iran (n=239). Data was collected using a checklist including demographic data and reasons for absenteeism (the number of absent days, work experience, and employment status) by presenting to the Human Resources Department of the healthcare system. Data was analyzed by using Chi-square test and Spearman’s rank correlation coefficient in SPSS, version 20. Results: The mean age of the employees was 35.72±3.3 years. Sick leave was mostly observed in the age group of 30-39, official staff, married women, and employees with work experience of 6 to 10 years (83 cases). Among the studied diseases, cold and musculoskeletal disorders were the most frequent causes of absenteeism among employees in the healthcare system. Conclusion: Based on our findings, musculoskeletal disorders were the most important causes of absenteeism, which are preventable. To improve the physical and ergonomic conditions of the staff, we suggest healthcare authorities to install ergonomy software (Office Exercise Program) and provide standard and adjustable seats and office desks.