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Taheri MR, Mortazavi SB, Asilian H, Ahmadi O, Sogandi F. Investigating human error in Iran's copper mines using the CREAM based on human cognitive reliability analysis. Int J Occup Saf Ergon 2023; 29:1423-1428. [PMID: 36221322 DOI: 10.1080/10803548.2022.2135259] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/17/2022]
Abstract
Objectives Human error has been recognized as one of the top causes of most accidents in mines. This study aimed to identify and assess cognitive errors among copper miners using the cognitive reliability and error analysis method (CREAM). Methods. This cross-sectional study was carried out in one of the copper mines in Iran. First, all tasks were analyzed by hierarchical task analysis (HTA). Then cognitive errors were assessed using the CREAM. Results. With respect to the basic CREAM results in the operational units, including extraction, crushing and processing, human error probability (HEP) was obtained as 0.056, 0.0315 and 0.0177, respectively. Based on the results of the extended CREAM, the types of errors identified for all tasks in the three operational units were mainly associated with execution (53.4%), observation (40%), interpretation (5%) and planning (1.6%). Also, the cognitive errors were related to execution, monitoring, observation, communication, diagnosis, recording and planning, respectively. Conclusion. The results showed that human error is very high in the operational units of the mine. Therefore, immediate actions are needed to improve safety performance in the mine units, which determine the role of various factors in human errors and can provide the possibility of implementing more effective interventions.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Hasan Asilian
- Faculty of Medical Sciences, Tarbiat Modares University, Iran
| | - Omran Ahmadi
- Faculty of Medical Sciences, Tarbiat Modares University, Iran
| | - Fatemeh Sogandi
- Department of Industrial Engineering, University of Torbat Heydarieh, Iran
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2
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Ghalenoei M, Mortazavi SB, Mazloumi A, Pakpour AH. Exploring individual factors influencing human reliability among control room operators: a qualitative study. Int J Occup Saf Ergon 2021; 28:1738-1749. [PMID: 34042557 DOI: 10.1080/10803548.2021.1929698] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/21/2022]
Abstract
Identifying the individual factors is a major issue in determining the likelihood of human error and ultimately human reliability. In current human reliability assessment methods, this is determined based on a list of performance shaping factors and experts' judgment. This was a qualitative content analysis study, in which the participants were selected using purposive sampling from combined cycle power plant control rooms. Semi-structured interviews were performed and collected data were analyzed. A total of 32 operators (20 module controllers, eight head operators and four managers) were interviewed. Five categories were extracted, namely 'mental condition', 'consciousness at work', 'professional competence', 'communication skills' and 'quick reactions and decision-making capabilities'. Accordingly, it is suggested to taken into account such factors as professional competence and speed of reactions and to pay more attention to their important factors in the reliability of operators in combined cycle power plant control rooms.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mehran Ghalenoei
- Faculty of Medical Sciences, Tarbiat Modares University, Iran.,Qazvin Research Center for Social Determinants of Health, Qazvin University of Medical Sciences, Iran
| | | | - Adel Mazloumi
- School of Public Health, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Iran
| | - Amir H Pakpour
- Qazvin Research Center for Social Determinants of Health, Qazvin University of Medical Sciences, Iran
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Naghavi-Konjin Z, Mortazavi SB, Mahabadi HA, Hajizadeh E. Identification of factors that influence occupational accidents in the petroleum industry: A qualitative approach. Work 2020; 67:419-430. [PMID: 33074205 DOI: 10.3233/wor-203291] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/15/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Exploring experiences of individuals for barriers they confront relating to safety could help to design safety interventions with an emphasis on the most safety influencing factors. OBJECTIVE This study strived to present an empirical exploration of individuals' experiences across the petroleum industry at different levels of the organizational structure for factors that influence occupational accidents. METHOD Based on accidents history, face-to-face semi-structured interviews were conducted with individuals who engaged in fatal activities, as well as authorities responsible for managing safety. The qualitative content analysis of 46 interview transcripts was conducted using MAXQDA software. RESULTS A three-layer model comprising organizational, supervisory and operator level influencing factors with 16 categories were found influence factors of occupational safety. The results highlighted the role of organizational factors, including inappropriate contract management, inadequate procedures, and issues relating to competency management and the organizational climate. Moreover, defects relating to the monitoring and supervision system were identified as important causes of accidents. CONCLUSIONS The findings demonstrated that the qualitative approach could reveal additional latent aspects of safety influencing factors, which require consideration for the appropriate management of occupational safety. This study can guide the planning of preventive strategies for occupational accidents in the petroleum industry.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zahra Naghavi-Konjin
- Department of Occupational Health Engineering, Faculty of Medical Sciences, Tarbiat Modares University, Tehran, Iran
| | - Seyed Bagher Mortazavi
- Department of Occupational Health Engineering, Faculty of Medical Sciences, Tarbiat Modares University, Tehran, Iran
| | - Hassan Asilian Mahabadi
- Department of Occupational Health Engineering, Faculty of Medical Sciences, Tarbiat Modares University, Tehran, Iran
| | - Ebrahim Hajizadeh
- Department of Biostatistics, Faculty of Medical Sciences, Tarbiat Modares University, Tehran, Iran
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Mohamadinejad A, Mortazavi SB, Jonidi Jafari A, Mofidi A. Estimation of direct and indirect costs of occupational injuries: A case study in one of the refining industries in Iran in 2015. Occup Med (Lond) 2020. [DOI: 10.18502/tkj.v11i4.3651] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/24/2022] Open
Abstract
Introduction: Occupational injuries can impose a significant cost to the country’s economy. In developing countries, it is usually difficult to get access to occupational injuries data mainly because the lack of appropriate reporting and recording system, and in these countries, making it difficult to accurately estimate the costs of these injuries. The purpose of this study is to estimate the direct and indirect costs of occupational injuries in one of the Iranian refining industries.
Materials and Methods: This cross-sectional study was performed on all occupational injuries, including outpatient injuries to deaths in 2015. Data was collected based on a bottom-up approach, by using the recorded documents and a researcher-made questionnaire. Lastly the direct and indirect costs for different stockholders, including workers and their families, industry and society as a whole, were calculated. Investigated direct costs of occupational injuries included The healthcare costs, out of pocket cost and informal caregiving and Indirect costs included productivity losses, reorganization and investigation costs and home production costs.
Results: It is estimated that occupational injuries impose 103,385 million Rials to the society over a year. Investigated direct costs of occupational injuries imposed 14,152 million Rials (48 million Rials per case). Indirect costs imposed 89,232 million Rials to the society (308 million Rials per case). Also the average healthcare cost per case for fatal injuries is estimate 125 million, for serious injuries 12 million Rials and for outpatient injuries 780,000 Rials
Conclusion: According to the results of the study, occupational injuries annually bring significant economic costs to the industry, workers and their families which a significant portion of these costs are indirect costs. These results indicates the status and importance of occupational injuries and therefore can be used by decision-makers and planners in occupational health-related issues.
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Mofidi A, Tompa E, Mortazavi SB, Esfahanipour A, Demers PA. A probabilistic approach for economic evaluation of occupational health and safety interventions: a case study of silica exposure reduction interventions in the construction sector. BMC Public Health 2020; 20:210. [PMID: 32046683 PMCID: PMC7014628 DOI: 10.1186/s12889-020-8307-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/22/2019] [Accepted: 01/31/2020] [Indexed: 11/10/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Construction workers are at a high risk of exposure to various types of hazardous substances such as crystalline silica. Though multiple studies indicate the evidence regarding the effectiveness of different silica exposure reduction interventions in the construction sector, the decisions for selecting a specific silica exposure reduction intervention are best informed by an economic evaluation. Economic evaluation of interventions is subjected to uncertainties in practice, mostly due to the lack of precise data on important variables. In this study, we aim to identify the most cost-beneficial silica exposure reduction intervention for the construction sector under uncertain situations. Methods We apply a probabilistic modeling approach that covers a large number of variables relevant to the cost of lung cancer, as well as the costs of silica exposure reduction interventions. To estimate the societal lifetime cost of lung cancer, we use an incidence cost approach. To estimate the net benefit of each intervention, we compare the expected cost of lung cancer cases averted, with expected cost of implementation of the intervention in one calendar year. Sensitivity analysis is used to quantify how different variables affect interventions net benefit. Results A positive net benefit is expected for all considered interventions. The highest number of lung cancer cases are averted by combined use of wet method, local exhaust ventilation and personal protective equipment, about 107 cases, with expected net benefit of $45.9 million. Results also suggest that the level of exposure is an important determinant for the selection of the most cost-beneficial intervention. Conclusions This study provides important insights for decision makers about silica exposure reduction interventions in the construction sector. It also provides an overview of the potential advantages of using probabilistic modeling approach to undertake economic evaluations, particularly when researchers are confronted with a large number of uncertain variables.
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Affiliation(s)
- Amirabbas Mofidi
- Institute for Work & Health, 481 University Ave Suite 800, Toronto, ON, M5G 2E9, Canada.,School of Medical Science, Tarbiat Modares University, PO: 14115-111, Tehran, Iran
| | - Emile Tompa
- Institute for Work & Health, 481 University Ave Suite 800, Toronto, ON, M5G 2E9, Canada.,Department of Economics, McMaster University, Hamilton, Ontario, Canada
| | - Seyed Bagher Mortazavi
- Institute for Work & Health, 481 University Ave Suite 800, Toronto, ON, M5G 2E9, Canada. .,School of Medical Science, Tarbiat Modares University, PO: 14115-111, Tehran, Iran.
| | - Akbar Esfahanipour
- Department of Industrial Engineering and Management Systems, Amirkabir University of Technology, Tehran, Iran
| | - Paul A Demers
- Occupational Cancer Research Centre, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
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6
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Habybabady RH, Mohammadi M, Mortazavi SB, Khavanin A, Mirzaei R, Malvajerdi MS. The effect of simultaneous exposure to cigarette smoke and noise on distortion product otoacoustic emissions in rats. Toxicol Ind Health 2019; 35:349-357. [PMID: 30971172 DOI: 10.1177/0748233719839865] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/15/2022]
Abstract
Cigarette smoking is a possible risk factor for hearing loss. However, the impact of simultaneous exposure to noise and smoke on hearing has remained controversial. This study investigated the combined effect of exposure to cigarette smoking and noise on hearing loss. Three groups of male Wistar rats (275 ± 25 g) were subjected to white noise (102 ± 0.5 dB), cigarette smoking (20 cigarettes), and both cigarette smoking and noise for 8 h and 10 days inside the exposure chamber. The control group was exposed to neither noise nor smoke. Distortion product otoacoustic emissions (DPOAE) were measured before any intervention, and it was repeated 1, 7, and 21 days after the last exposure. One-day postexposure to noise, cigarette smoking, and both cigarette smoking and noise, the mean of DPOAE amplitudes decreased significantly ( p < 0.05) between, respectively, 5.7-30.7, 1.5-7.5, and 5.2-32.6 dB within the frequency range of 4620-9960. Temporal DPOAE change in rats exposed to noise or both cigarette smoking and noise was not significantly different ( p > 0.05). DPOAE amplitudes returned to the baseline values in the group subjected to smoking 21 days postexposure. The most permanent change was observed in rats exposed to both cigarette smoking and noise. Accordingly, simultaneous subacute exposure to noise and cigarette smoking increases the effect of noise on permanent hearing loss. Therefore, smoking workers exposed to noise might be at a greater risk of developing hearing loss, and it is recommended that authorities in charge take note of this evidence.
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Affiliation(s)
- Raheleh Hashemi Habybabady
- 1 Department of Occupational Health Engineering, Health Promotion Research Center, Zahedan University of Medical Sciences, Zahedan, Iran
| | - Mahdi Mohammadi
- 2 Department of Biostatistics and Epidemiology, Health Promotion Research Center, Zahedan University of Medical Sciences, Zahedan, Iran
| | - Seyed Bagher Mortazavi
- 3 Department of Occupational Health Engineering, School of Medical Sciences, Tarbiat Modares University, Tehran, Iran
| | - Ali Khavanin
- 3 Department of Occupational Health Engineering, School of Medical Sciences, Tarbiat Modares University, Tehran, Iran
| | - Ramazan Mirzaei
- 4 Department of Environmental and Occupational Health Engineering, School of Health, Social determinants of Health Research Center, Mashhad University of Medical Sciences, Mashhad, Iran
| | - Mehdi Sadeghi Malvajerdi
- 1 Department of Occupational Health Engineering, Health Promotion Research Center, Zahedan University of Medical Sciences, Zahedan, Iran
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Habybabady RH, Mortazavi SB, Khavanin A, Mirzaei R, Arab MR, Mesbahzadeh B, Hoseini M, Mohammadi M. Protective Effects of N-Acetyl-L-Cysteine on the Density of Spiral Ganglion Cells and Histological Changes Induced by Continuous Noise Exposure in Rats. Malays J Med Sci 2018; 25:48-58. [PMID: 30914862 PMCID: PMC6419893 DOI: 10.21315/mjms2018.25.5.5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/24/2018] [Accepted: 09/06/2018] [Indexed: 11/26/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Noise exposure causes loss of cochlea hair cells, leading to permanent sensorineural hearing loss, and initiates pathological changes to the bipolar primary auditory neurons (ANs). This study focuses on the effects of N-acetyl-l-cysteine (NAC) in protecting the density of spiral ganglion cells and in histological changes induced by continuous noise exposure in rats. Methods Twenty-four male Wistar rats were randomly allocated into four experimental groups to receive NAC, saline, noise, or both noise and NAC. Noise exposure continued for ten days. Saline and NAC were injected daily during the noise exposure, and 2 days before and after the noise exposure. Evaluation of cochlear histopathology and the density of spiral ganglion cells was performed 21 days after exposure. Results In the animals exposed to noise, a reduction in the density of spiral ganglion cells was evident in both the basal and middle turns of the cochlea. This improved on receiving NAC treatment (P = 0.046). In the histopathology evaluation, some histological changes, such as disorganised architecture of the outer hair and supporting cells and a slightly thickened basilar membrane, were found in the basal turns in the noise group. Conclusion NAC offered partial protection against noise exposure by improving the density of spiral ganglion cells and reducing morphological changes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Raheleh Hashemi Habybabady
- Health Promotion Research Center, Department of Occupational Health Engineering, Zahedan University of Medical Sciences, Zahedan, Iran
| | - Seyed Bagher Mortazavi
- Department of Occupational Health Engineering, School of Medical Sciences, Tarbiat Modares University, Tehran, Iran
| | - Ali Khavanin
- Department of Occupational Health Engineering, School of Medical Sciences, Tarbiat Modares University, Tehran, Iran
| | - Ramazan Mirzaei
- Department of Occupational Health Engineering, School of Health, Mashhad University of Medical Sciences, Mashhad, Iran
| | - Mohammad Reza Arab
- Cell and Molecular Research Center, Department of Anatomical Sciences, Zahedan University of Medical Sciences, Zahedan, Iran
| | - Behzad Mesbahzadeh
- Department of Physiology and Pharmacology, Birjand University of Medical Sciences, Birjand, Iran
| | - Mehran Hoseini
- Expert of Public Health, Birjand University of Medical Sciences, Birjand, Iran
| | - Mahdi Mohammadi
- Health Promotion Research Center, Department of Biostatistics & Epidemiology, Zahedan University of Medical Sciences, Zahedan, Iran
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Mofidi A, Tompa E, Spencer J, Kalcevich C, Peters CE, Kim J, Song C, Mortazavi SB, Demers PA. The economic burden of occupational non-melanoma skin cancer due to solar radiation. J Occup Environ Hyg 2018; 15:481-491. [PMID: 29695213 DOI: 10.1080/15459624.2018.1447118] [Citation(s) in RCA: 31] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/25/2023]
Abstract
Solar ultraviolet (UV) radiation is the second most prevalent carcinogenic exposure in Canada and is similarly important in other countries with large Caucasian populations. The objective of this article was to estimate the economic burden associated with newly diagnosed non-melanoma skin cancers (NMSCs) attributable to occupational solar radiation exposure. Key cost categories considered were direct costs (healthcare costs, out-of-pocket costs (OOPCs), and informal caregiver costs); indirect costs (productivity/output costs and home production costs); and intangible costs (monetary value of the loss of health-related quality of life (HRQoL)). To generate the burden estimates, we used secondary data from multiple sources applied to computational methods developed from an extensive review of the literature. An estimated 2,846 (5.3%) of the 53,696 newly diagnosed cases of basal cell carcinoma (BCC) and 1,710 (9.2%) of the 18,549 newly diagnosed cases of squamous cell carcinoma (SCC) in 2011 in Canada were attributable to occupational solar radiation exposure. The combined total for direct and indirect costs of occupational NMSC cases is $28.9 million ($15.9 million for BCC and $13.0 million for SCC), and for intangible costs is $5.7 million ($0.6 million for BCC and $5.1 million for SCC). On a per-case basis, the total costs are $5,670 for BCC and $10,555 for SCC. The higher per-case cost for SCC is largely a result of a lower survival rate, and hence higher indirect and intangible costs. Our estimates can be used to raise awareness of occupational solar UV exposure as an important causal factor in NMSCs and can highlight the importance of occupational BCC and SCC among other occupational cancers.
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Affiliation(s)
- Amirabbas Mofidi
- a Department of Occupational Health Engineering , School of Medical Sciences, Tarbiat Modares University , Tehran , Iran
- b Institute for Work and Health , Toronto , Ontario , Canada
| | - Emile Tompa
- b Institute for Work and Health , Toronto , Ontario , Canada
- c Department of Economics , McMaster University , Hamilton , Ontario , Canada
| | - James Spencer
- c Department of Economics , McMaster University , Hamilton , Ontario , Canada
| | | | - Cheryl E Peters
- d Department of Health Sciences , Carleton University , Ottawa , Ontario , Canada
- e CAREX Canada, Simon Fraser University , Burnaby , British Columbia , Canada
| | - Joanne Kim
- f Occupational Cancer Research Centre , Toronto , Ontario , Canada
| | - Chaojie Song
- f Occupational Cancer Research Centre , Toronto , Ontario , Canada
| | - Seyed Bagher Mortazavi
- a Department of Occupational Health Engineering , School of Medical Sciences, Tarbiat Modares University , Tehran , Iran
| | - Paul A Demers
- f Occupational Cancer Research Centre , Toronto , Ontario , Canada
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Ahmadi O, Mortazavi SB, Khavanin A, Mokarami H. Validity and consistency assessment of accident analysis methods in the petroleum industry. Int J Occup Saf Ergon 2017; 25:355-361. [PMID: 28980875 DOI: 10.1080/10803548.2017.1387400] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/18/2022]
Abstract
Background. Accident analysis is the main aspect of accident investigation. It includes the method of connecting different causes in a procedural way. Therefore, it is important to use valid and reliable methods for the investigation of different causal factors of accidents, especially the noteworthy ones. Objective. This study aimed to prominently assess the accuracy (sensitivity index [SI]) and consistency of the six most commonly used accident analysis methods in the petroleum industry. Methods. In order to evaluate the methods of accident analysis, two real case studies (process safety and personal accident) from the petroleum industry were analyzed by 10 assessors. The accuracy and consistency of these methods were then evaluated. The assessors were trained in the workshop of accident analysis methods. Results. The systematic cause analysis technique and bowtie methods gained the greatest SI scores for both personal and process safety accidents, respectively. The best average results of the consistency in a single method (based on 10 independent assessors) were in the region of 70%. Conclusion. This study confirmed that the application of methods with pre-defined causes and a logic tree could enhance the sensitivity and consistency of accident analysis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Omran Ahmadi
- a Faculty of Medical Sciences , Tarbiat Modares University , Iran
| | | | - Ali Khavanin
- a Faculty of Medical Sciences , Tarbiat Modares University , Iran
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Mokarami H, Mortazavi SB, Asgari A, Choobineh A, Stallones L. Multiple dimensions of work-related risk factors and their relationship to work ability among industrial workers in Iran. International Journal of Occupational Safety and Ergonomics 2017; 23:374-379. [PMID: 27929927 DOI: 10.1080/10803548.2016.1262602] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/19/2023]
Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Ali Asgari
- Department of Educational Psychology, Kharazmi University, Iran
| | - Alireza Choobineh
- Research Center for Health Sciences, Shiraz University of Medical Sciences, Iran
| | - Lorann Stallones
- Colorado Injury Control Research Center, Colorado State University, USA
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Zaroushani V, Khavanin A, Jonidi Jafari A, Mortazavi SB. A New Microwave Shield Preparation for Super High Frequency Range: Occupational Approach to Radiation Protection. J Res Health Sci 2016; 16:206-211. [PMID: 28087853 PMCID: PMC7189920] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/09/2016] [Revised: 10/19/2016] [Accepted: 10/22/2016] [Indexed: 11/24/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Widespread use of X-band frequency (a part of the super high frequency microwave) in the various workplaces would contribute to occupational exposure with potential of adverse health effects. According to limited study on microwave shielding for the workplace, this study tried to prepare a new microwave shielding for this purpose. METHODS We used EI-403 epoxy thermosetting resin as a matrix and nickel oxide nanoparticle with the diameter of 15-35 nm as filler. The Epoxy/ Nickel oxide composites with 5, 7, 9 and 11 wt% were made in three different thicknesses (2, 4 and 6 mm). According to transmission / reflection method, shielding effectiveness (SE) in the X-band frequency range (8-12.5 GHz) was measured by scattering parameters directly given by the 2-port Vector Network Analyzer. The fabricated composites characterized by X-ray Diffraction and Field Emission Scanning Electron Microscope. RESULTS The best average of shielding effectiveness in each thickness of fabricated composites obtained by 11%-2 mm, 7%-4 mm and 7%-6 mm composites with SE values of 46.80%, 66.72% and 64.52%, respectively. In addition, the 11%-6 mm, 5%-6 mm and 11%-4 mm-fabricated composites were able to attenuate extremely the incident microwave energy at 8.01, 8.51 and 8.53 GHz by SE of 84.14%, 83.57 and 81.30%, respectively. CONCLUSIONS The 7%-4mm composite could be introduced as a suitable alternative microwave shield in radiation protection topics in order to its proper SE and other preferable properties such as low cost and weight, resistance to corrosion etc. It is necessary to develop and investigate the efficacy of the fabricated composites in the fields by future studies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Vida Zaroushani
- a Department of Occupational Health Engineering, School of Public Health, Qazvin University of Medical Sciences, Qazvin, Iran
| | - Ali Khavanin
- b Department of Occupational Health Engineering, School of Medical Sciences, Tarbiat Modares University, Tehran, Iran
,Correspondence Ali Khavanin (PhD) Tel: +98 21 82883825 Fax:+ 98 21 82883825
| | - Ahmad Jonidi Jafari
- c Research Center for Environmental Technology, Iran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
,d Department of Environmental Health Engineering ,School of Public Health, Iran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Seyed Bagher Mortazavi
- e Department of Occupational Health Engineering, School of Medical Sciences, Tarbiat Modares University, Tehran, Iran
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Mokarami H, Mortazavi SB, Asgari A, Choobineh A. Work Ability Score (WAS) as a Suitable Instrument to Assess Work Ability Among Iranian Workers. Health Scope 2016. [DOI: 10.17795/jhealthscope-42014] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/25/2022]
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Khajehnasiri F, Akhondzadeh S, Mortazavi SB, Allameh A, Sotoudeh G, Khavanin A, Zamanian Z. Are Supplementation of Omega-3 and Ascorbic Acid Effective in Reducing Oxidative Stress and Depression among Depressed Shift Workers? INT J VITAM NUTR RES 2016; 85:299-310. [PMID: 27164176 DOI: 10.1024/0300-9831/a000249] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/19/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND This study assessed the effect of supplementation of omega-3 fatty acids and ascorbic acid alone and in combination on the level of lipid peroxidation (malondialdehyde, MDA concentration), total antioxidant capacity (TAC) and depression scores in depressed rotational shift workers in the Tehran Shahid Tondgoyan Oil refinery. MATERIAL AND METHODS In this randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled trial, 136 men who met the inclusion and exclusion criteria and had a Beck Depression Inventory (BDI) score ≥ 10 were selected. Among the participants, 33 received omega-3 fatty acid soft gel (1000 mg twice daily) with vitamin C (250 mg twice daily) (group 1), 31 took omega-3 fatty acid supplements and vitamin C placebo (group 2), 30 took omega-3 fatty acid supplement placebo and vitamin C (group 3), and 32 received omega-3 fatty acid supplement placebo and vitamin C placebo (group 4) for 2 months. Measured were serum MDA, TAC concentrations, and BDI scores at baseline and after 2 months. RESULTS This study showed that the BDI score was reduced significantly in all 4 groups, however, the level of decrease was more in the omega-3 fatty acid (alone) supplementation group (mean 6.29 score decrease) (p < 0.001). MDA level decreased significantly in groups with omega-3 fatty acids (mean 0.78 μmol/L ± 1.64 μmol/L decrease) (p = 0.014) or vitamin C supplementation alone (mean 0.74 μmol/L ± 1.55 μmol/L decrease) (p = 0.014), but not in combination. CONCLUSIONS Supplementation of omega-3 fatty acids alone and not in combination with vitamin C had a better impact on depression and MDA level pronounced in depressed male shift workers.
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Affiliation(s)
- Farahnaz Khajehnasiri
- 1 Department of Community Medicine, School of medicine, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Shahin Akhondzadeh
- 2 Psychiatric Research Center, Roozbeh Hospital, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Seyed Bagher Mortazavi
- 3 Department of Occupational Health, School of Medical Sciences, Tarbiat Modares University, Tehran, Iran
| | - Abdolamir Allameh
- 4 Department of Biochemistry, School of Medical Sciences, Tarbiat Modares University, Tehran, Iran
| | - Gity Sotoudeh
- 5 Department of Community Nutrition, School of Nutritional Sciences and Dietetics, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Ali Khavanin
- 6 Department of Occupational Health, School of Medical Sciences, Tarbiat Modares University, Tehran, Iran
| | - Zahra Zamanian
- 7 Department of occupational Health, School of Health, Shiraz University of Medical Sciences, Shiraz, Iran
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Zaroushani V, Khavanin A, Mortazavi SB, Jonidi Jafari A. Efficacy of Net Epoxy Resin for Electromagnetic Shielding in X-Band Frequency Range. Health Scope 2016. [DOI: 10.17795/jhealthscope-30203] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/25/2022]
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Alizadeh SS, Mortazavi SB, Mehdi Sepehri M. Assessment of accident severity in the construction industry using the Bayesian theorem. International Journal of Occupational Safety and Ergonomics 2015; 21:551-7. [DOI: 10.1080/10803548.2015.1095546] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/22/2022]
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Alizadeh SS, Mortazavi SB, Sepehri MM. Analysis of Occupational Accident Fatalities and Injuries Among Male Group in Iran Between 2008 and 2012. Iran Red Crescent Med J 2015; 17:e18976. [PMID: 26568848 PMCID: PMC4640057 DOI: 10.5812/ircmj.18976] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/15/2014] [Accepted: 05/07/2014] [Indexed: 12/02/2022]
Abstract
Background: Because of occupational accidents, permanent disabilities and deaths occur and economic and workday losses emerge. Objectives: The purpose of the present study was to investigate the factors responsible for occupational accidents occurred in Iran. Patients and Methods: The current study analyzed 1464 occupational accidents recorded by the Ministry of Labor and Social Affairs’ offices in Iran during 2008 - 2012. At first, general understanding of accidents was obtained using descriptive statistics. Afterwards, the chi-square test and Cramer’s V statistic (Vc) were used to determine the association between factors influencing the type of injury as occupational accident outcomes. Results: There was no significant association between marital status and time of day with the type of injury. However, activity sector, cause of accident, victim’s education, age of victim and victim’s experience were significantly associated with the type of injury. Conclusions: Successful accident prevention relies largely on knowledge about the causes of accidents. In any accident control activity, particularly in occupational accidents, correctly identifying high-risk groups and factors influencing accidents is the key to successful interventions. Results of this study can cause to increase accident awareness and enable workplace’s management to select and prioritize problem areas and safety system weakness in workplaces.
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Affiliation(s)
- Seyed Shamseddin Alizadeh
- Department of Occupational Health Engineering, Health Faculty, Tabriz University of Medical Sciences, Tabriz, IR Iran
| | - Seyed Bagher Mortazavi
- Department of Occupational Health Engineering, Health Faculty, Tabriz University of Medical Sciences, Tabriz, IR Iran
- Corresponding Author: Seyed Bagher Mortazavi, Department of Occupational Health Engineering, Faculty of Medical Sciences, Tarbiat Modares University, Tehran, IR Iran. Tel/Fax: +98-2182883825, E-mail:
| | - Mohammad Mehdi Sepehri
- Department of Industrial Engineering, Faculty of Engineering, Tarbiat Modares University, Tehran, IR Iran
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Amiri S, Asilian Mahabadi H, Mortazavi SB, Ghanbari Kakavandi M. Investigation of Safety Climate in an Oil Industry in Summer of 2014. Health Scope 2015. [DOI: 10.17795/jhealthscope-26071] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/24/2023]
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Alizadeh SS, Mortazavi SB, Sepehri MM. Building a model using bayesian network for assessment of posterior probabilities of falling from height at workplaces. Health Promot Perspect 2015; 4:187-94. [PMID: 25648498 DOI: 10.5681/hpp.2014.025] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/10/2014] [Accepted: 10/06/2014] [Indexed: 11/17/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Falls from height are one of the main causes of fatal occupational injuries. The objective of this study was to present a model for estimating occurrence probability of falling from height. METHODS In order to make a list of factors affecting falls, we used four expert group's judgment, literature review and an available database. Then the validity and reliability of designed questionnaire were determined and Bayesian networks were built. The built network, nodes and curves were quantified. For network sensitivity analysis, four types of analysis carried out. RESULTS A Bayesian network for assessment of posterior probabilities of falling from height proposed. The presented Bayesian network model shows the interrelationships among 37 causes affecting the falling from height and can calculate its posterior probabilities. The most important factors affecting falling were Non-compliance with safety instructions for work at height (0.127), Lack of safety equipment for work at height (0.094) and Lack of safety instructions for work at height (0.071) respectively. CONCLUSION The proposed Bayesian network used to determine how different causes could affect the falling from height at work. The findings of this study can be used to decide on the falling accident prevention programs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Seyed Shamseddin Alizadeh
- Department of Occupational Health Engineering, , Tabriz University of Medical Sciences, Tabriz, Iran
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Varmazyar S, Mortazavi SB, Arghami S, Hajizadeh E. Relationship between organisational safety culture dimensions and crashes. Int J Inj Contr Saf Promot 2014; 23:72-8. [DOI: 10.1080/17457300.2014.947296] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/24/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Sakineh Varmazyar
- Department of Occupational Health Engineering, Faculty of Medical Sciences, Tarbiat Modares University and Qazvin University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Seyed Bagher Mortazavi
- Department of Occupational Health Engineering, Faculty of Medical Sciences, Tarbiat Modares University, Tehran, Iran
| | - Shirazeh Arghami
- Department of Occupational Health Engineering, Zanjan University of Medical Sciences, Zanjan, Iran
| | - Ebrahim Hajizadeh
- Department of Biostatistics, Faculty of Medical Sciences, Tarbiat Modares University, Tehran, Iran
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Mollaei J, Mortazavi SB, Jonidi Jafari A. Removal of Sodium Dodecylbenzene Sulfonate by Moving Bed Biofilm Reactor, Using Synthetic Media. Health Scope 2014. [DOI: 10.17795/jhealthscope-16721] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/25/2022]
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Khajehnasiri F, Akhondzadeh S, Mortazavi SB, Allameh A, Khavanin A, Zamanian Z. Oxidative Stress and Depression among Male Shift Workers in Shahid Tondgouyan Refinery. Iran J Psychiatry 2014; 9:76-82. [PMID: 25632284 PMCID: PMC4300469] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Download PDF] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/09/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE The aim of this study was to determine the oxidative stress; serum level of Total Antioxidant Capacity (TAC)and Malondialdehyde (MDA) level and the depression score among the depressed rotational shift workers in Shahid Tondgouyan Refinery in Tehran (Iran). METHODS A cross-sectional study was conducted among all the 189 shift workers in Shahid Tondgouyan oil refinery who were eligible to participate in the study. They did not take any antidepressants for two months or any supplements for two weeks prior to the study entry. Written consent was obtained from the participants. 21- Item Beck Depression Inventory was used to measure the depression level. Furthermore, body weight, height and systolic and diastolic blood pressure were collected from all the participants. The levels of Total Antioxidant Capacity (TAC) and Malondialdehyde (MDA) were measured by 8 ml fasting blood sample. MDA was determined by thiobarbituric acid reaction. Serum total antioxidants were measured using the spectrophotometric ABTS. In the ABTS test, 2,2'-azinobis (3-ethylbenzthiazoline-6-acid) (ABTS) is converted into its radical cation (ABTS•+) by addition of sodium persulphate. This blue-green radical cation absorbs light at 734 nm. ABTS•+ is reactive towards most antioxidants. Descriptive statistics, ANOVA, ANCOVA and regression tests and correlation were used to analyze the data using SPSS software version 16. RESULTS The age of the participants ranged from 21 to 52 years. The mean age of the participants was 30.58 year (±6.97yr). Of all the participants, 28% (n= 53) had no depression symptoms (depression score between 0 and 9), 65.1% (n=123) were categorized as having mild depression (depression score between 10 and 18) and 6.9% (n=13) were categorized as having moderate depression (depression score between 19 and 29). The participants' BMI ranged from 15.9 to 34.3; the mean BMI of the participants was 24.82 kg/m(2) (+ 3.81 kg/m(2)). The mean of the serum TAC level was 2.51 (± 0.56) mg/dl, and the mean serum MDA level was 3.67(± 1.08) μmol/l. There was a significant difference in the mean TAC concentration between the non-depressed group and the group with mild depression (p=0.029). CONCLUSION Depression was associated with reduced mean TAC concentration and an increase in MDA level. There was a linear relationship between the depression score and shift work experience among the rotational shift workers, which showed a high level of stress and depression among the shift-workers.
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Affiliation(s)
- Farahnaz Khajehnasiri
- Department of Social Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Shahin Akhondzadeh
- Psychiatry and Psychology Research Center, Roozbeh Hospital, Tehran University of Medical Sciences. Tehran, Iran
| | - Seyed Bagher Mortazavi
- Department of Occupational Health, Faculty of Medical Sciences, Tarbiat Modares University, Tehran, Iran
| | - Abdolamir Allameh
- Department of Biochemistry, Faculty of Medical Sciences, Tarbiat Modares University, Tehran, Iran
| | - Ali Khavanin
- Department of Occupational Health, Faculty of Medical Sciences, Tarbiat Modares University, Tehran, Iran
| | - Zahra Zamanian
- Department of occupational Health, School of Health, Shiraz University of Medical Sciences, Shiraz, Iran
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Khosravi Y, Asilian-Mahabadi H, Hajizadeh E, Hassanzadeh-Rangi N, Bastani H, Khavanin A, Mortazavi SB. Modeling the factors affecting unsafe behavior in the construction industry from safety supervisors' perspective. J Res Health Sci 2014; 14:29-35. [PMID: 24402847] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/19/2013] [Revised: 08/18/2013] [Accepted: 08/24/2013] [Indexed: 06/03/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND There can be little doubt that the construction is the most hazardous industry in the worldwide. This study was designed to modeling the factors affecting unsafe behavior from the perspective of safety supervisors. METHODS The qualitative research was conducted to extract a conceptual model. A structural model was then developed based on a questionnaire survey (n=266) by two stage Structural Equation Model (SEM) approach. RESULTS An excellent confirmed 12-factors structure explained about 62% of variances unsafe behavior in the construction industry. A good fit structural model indicated that safety climate factors were positively correlated with safety individual factors (P<0.001) and workplace safety condition (P<0.001). The workplace safety condition was found to play a strong mediating role in linking the safety climate and construction workers' engagement in safe or unsafe behavior. CONCLUSIONS In order to improve construction safety performance, more focus on the workplace condition is required.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yahya Khosravi
- Department of Occupational Health, Faculty of Medical Sciences, Tarbiat Modares University, Tehran, Iran
| | - Hassan Asilian-Mahabadi
- Department of Biostatistics, Faculty of Medical Sciences, Tarbiat Modares University, Tehran, Iran.
| | - Ebrahim Hajizadeh
- Department of Biostatistics, Faculty of Medical Sciences, Tarbiat Modares University, Tehran, Iran
| | | | - Hamid Bastani
- Health, Safety and Environment Management, MAPNA Group Co., Tehran, Iran
| | - Ali Khavanin
- Department of Occupational Health, Faculty of Medical Sciences, Tarbiat Modares University, Tehran, Iran
| | - Seyed Bagher Mortazavi
- Department of Occupational Health, Faculty of Medical Sciences, Tarbiat Modares University, Tehran, Iran
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Varmazyar S, Mortazavi SB, Hajizadeh E, Arghami S. The Relationship Between Driving Aberrant Behavior and Self-Reported Accidents Involvement Amongst Professional Bus Drivers in the Public Transportation Company. Health Scope 2013. [DOI: 10.17795/jhealthscope-11552] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/25/2022]
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Ghanbari M, Mortazavi SB, Khavanin A, Khazaei M. The Effects of Cell Phone Waves (900 MHz-GSM Band) on Sperm Parameters and Total Antioxidant Capacity in Rats. Int J Fertil Steril 2013; 7:21-8. [PMID: 24520459 PMCID: PMC3850324] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/01/2012] [Accepted: 10/30/2012] [Indexed: 11/02/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND There is tremendous concern regarding the possible adverse effects of cell phone microwaves. Contradictory results, however, have been reported for the effects of these waves on the body. In the present study, the effect of cell phone microwaves on sperm parameters and total antioxidant capacity was investigated with regard to the duration of exposure and the frequency of these waves. MATERIALS AND METHODS This experimental study was performed on 28 adult male Wistar rats (200-250 g). The animals were randomly assigned to four groups (n=7): i. control; ii. two-week exposure to cell phone-simulated waves; iii. three-week exposure to cell phonesimulated waves; and iv. two-week exposure to cell phone antenna waves. In all groups, sperm analysis was performed based on standard methods and we determined the mean sperm total antioxidant capacity according to the ferric reducing ability of plasma (FRAP) method. Data were analyzed by one-way ANOVA followed by Tukey's test using SPSS version 16 software. RESULTS The results indicated that sperm viability, motility, and total antioxidant capacity in all exposure groups decreased significantly compared to the control group (p<0.05). Increasing the duration of exposure from 2 to 3 weeks caused a statistically significant decrease in sperm viability and motility (p<0.05). CONCLUSION Exposure to cell phone waves can decrease sperm viability and motility in rats. These waves can also decrease sperm total antioxidant capacity in rats and result in oxidative stress.
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Affiliation(s)
- Masoud Ghanbari
- Department of Occupational and Environmental Health, School of Medical Sciences, Tarbiat Modares
University, Tehran, Iran
| | - Seyed Bagher Mortazavi
- Department of Occupational and Environmental Health, School of Medical Sciences, Tarbiat Modares
University, Tehran, Iran
| | - Ali Khavanin
- Department of Occupational and Environmental Health, School of Medical Sciences, Tarbiat Modares
University, Tehran, Iran
| | - Mozafar Khazaei
- Fertility and Infertility Research Center, Kermanshah University of Medical Sciences,
Kermanshah, Iran
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Khajehnasiri F, Mortazavi SB, Allameh A, Akhondzadeh S. Effect of omega-3 and ascorbic acid on inflammation markers in depressed shift workers in Shahid Tondgoyan Oil Refinery, Iran: a randomized double-blind placebo-controlled study. J Clin Biochem Nutr 2013; 53:36-40. [PMID: 23874068 PMCID: PMC3705155 DOI: 10.3164/jcbn.12-98] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/11/2012] [Accepted: 11/27/2012] [Indexed: 11/22/2022] Open
Abstract
The present study aimed to assess the effect of supplementation of omega-3 and/or vitamin C on serum interleukin-6 and high sensitivity C-reactive protein concentration and depression scores among shift workers in Shahid Tondgoyan oil refinery. The study design was randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled, parallel trial. Totally 136 shift workers with a depression score ≥10 in 21-item Beck Depression Rating Scale were randomly assigned to receive omega-3 (180 mg eicosapentaenoate acid and 120 mg docosahexaenoic acid) or/and vitamin C 250 mg or placebo twice daily (with the same taste and shape as omega-3 and vitamin C) for 60 days in four groups. Depression score, interleukin-6 and high sensitivity C-reactive protein were measured at baseline and after 60 days. This study showed that supplementation of omega-3 plus vitamin C is associated with a decrease in depression score (p<0.05). Supplementation of omega-3 without vitamin C, is associated with a reduction in depression score (p<0.0001) and high sensitivity C-reactive protein concentration (p<0.01). Therefore omega-3 supplementation showed a better effect on reducing depression score and high sensitivity C-reactive protein, but supplementation of vitamin C along with omega-3 did not have significant effect on change in C-reactive protein level compared to omega-3 alone. (Registration number: IRCT201202189056N1)
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Affiliation(s)
- Farahnaz Khajehnasiri
- Department of Occupational & Environmental Health, Faculty of Medical Sciences, Tarbiat Modares University, POB 14115-111, Tehran, Iran
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Mortazavi SB, Oostakhan M, Mofidi A, Babaei A. The Impact of Patient Safety Climate on Medical Errors in a Sample of Nurses: Creating Safer Health Care. Health Scope 2013. [DOI: 10.17795/jhealthscope-8384] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/23/2022]
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Ghanbari M, Mortazavi SB, Khavanin A, Khazaei M. Simultaneous Effects of Exposure to Microwaves and Noise on Male Rats’ Sperm Parameters and Total Antioxidant Capacity. Health Scope 2013. [DOI: 10.17795/jhealthscope-8230] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/30/2022]
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Dehghan H, Mortazavi SB, Jafari MJ, Maracy MR. Evaluation of wet bulb globe temperature index for estimation of heat strain in hot/humid conditions in the Persian Gulf. J Res Med Sci 2012; 17:1108-13. [PMID: 23853626 PMCID: PMC3703160] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/09/2012] [Revised: 10/03/2012] [Accepted: 10/16/2012] [Indexed: 12/02/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Heat exposure among construction workers in the Persian Gulf region is a serious hazard for health. The aim of this study was to evaluate the performance of wet bulb globe temperature (WBGT) Index for estimation of heat strain in hot/humid conditions by the use of Physiological Strain Index (PSI) as the gold standard. MATERIAL AND METHODS This cross-sectional study was carried out on 71 workers of two Petrochemical Companies in South of Iran in 2010 summer. The WBGT index, heart rate, and aural temperature were measured by Heat Stress Monitor (Casella Microtherm WBGT), Heart Rate Monitor (Polar RS100), and Personal Heat Strain Monitor (Questemp II), respectively. The obtained data were analyzed with descriptive statistics and Pearson correlation analysis. RESULTS The mean (SD) of WBGT values was 33.1 (2.7). The WBGT values exceed from American Conference of Governmental Industrial Hygienists (ACGIH) standard (30°C) in 96% work stations, whereas the PSI values were more than 5.0 (moderate strain) in 11% of workstations. The correlation between WBGT and PSI values was 0.61 (P = 0.001). When WBGT values were less and more than 34°C, the mean of PSI was 2.6 (low strain) and 5.2 (moderate strain), respectively. CONCLUSION In the Persian Gulf weather, especially hot and humid in the summer months, due to the WBGT values exceeding 30°C (in 96% of cases) and weak correlation between WBGT and PSI, the work/rest cycles of WBGT Index is not suitable for heat stress management. Therefore, in Persian Gulf weather, heat stress evaluation based on physiologic variables may have higher validity than WBGT index.
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Affiliation(s)
- Habibolah Dehghan
- Department of Occupational Health Engineering, Tarbiat Modares University, Tehran, Iran
| | - Seyed Bagher Mortazavi
- Department of Occupational Health Engineering, Tarbiat Modares University, Tehran, Iran,Address for correspondence: Dr. Seyed Bagher Mortazavi, Department of Occupational Health Engineering, Faculty of Medical Sciences, Tarbiat Modares University, Iran. E-mail:
| | - Mohammad J. Jafari
- Department of Occupational Health Engineering, Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Mohammad R. Maracy
- Environment Research Center, Isfahan University of Medical Sciences, Isfahan, Iran
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Abstract
Synthesized magnesium/copper (Mg/Cu) bimetallic particles have shown good potential for use in the reduction of nitrate from aqueous solutions. This study was conducted to investigate the main factors affecting the kinetics of nitrate reduction by Mg/Cu particles (<100 microm) in uncontrolled reaction conditions. The Mg/Cu bimetallic particles removed the majority of the various nitrate concentrations tested (50, 100, 150, 200 and 300 mg L(-1)) within a short period. The time required for the removal of 90.6% of the NO3(-) from a 100 mg L(-1) solution was about 20 min using 2 gL(-1) bimetallic Mg/Cu at an initial solution pH of 6. The activation energy (Ea) for nitrate reduction by Mg/Cu over the temperature range of 5 to 60 degrees C was 14.21 kJ mol(-1). The experimental results of the kinetic analysis from batch studies indicated that a higher initial nitrate concentration yielded a greater reaction-rate constant and the denitrification rate increased with increase Mg/Cu dosage.
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Affiliation(s)
- S B Mortazavi
- Department of Environmental Health, Faculty of Medical Sciences, Tarbiat Modares University, Tehran, Iran.
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Rasoulzadeh Y, Mortazavi SB, Yousefi AA, Khavanin A. Decreasing polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons emission from bitumen using alternative bitumen production process. J Hazard Mater 2011; 185:1156-1161. [PMID: 21074322 DOI: 10.1016/j.jhazmat.2010.10.026] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/20/2010] [Revised: 09/01/2010] [Accepted: 10/08/2010] [Indexed: 05/30/2023]
Abstract
In 1988, the National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health (NIOSH) recommended that bitumen fumes should also be considered a potential occupational carcinogen and management practices such as engineering controls should be implemented. Changing the production process of bitumen, as a source control method, was investigated in our study. For the first time, a novel alternative process was used to produce paving grade bitumen with decreased PAH emissions as well as improved bitumen performance grade (PG). Post-consumer latex and natural bitumen (NB) were used as additives to obtain 60/70 modified bitumen directly from the vacuum bottom (VB) without any need for air-blowing. The emissions were produced by a laboratory fume generation rig and were sampled and analyzed by GC-Mass and GC-FID as described in NIOSH method 5515. The PG of the resulting modified 60/70 bitumen in this study covers a wider range of climatic conditions and has higher total resistance against deformation than conventional 60/70 bitumen. The total PAH emissions from modified 60/70 bitumen (100.2619 ng/g) were decreased approximately to 50% of PAHs emitted from conventional 60/70 bitumen (197.696 ng/g). Therefore, it is possible to obtain modified bitumen with lower PAH emissions and better quality than conventional bitumen via additives and without air-blowing.
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Affiliation(s)
- Y Rasoulzadeh
- Department of Occupational Health, Tabriz University of Medical Sciences, PO Box 5166614711, Tabriz, Iran
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Affiliation(s)
- S B Mortazavi
- Department of Environmental and Occupational Health, School of Medical Sciences, Tarbiat Modares University, Tehran, Iran
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Mirzaee R, Allameh A, Mortazavi SB, Khavanin A, Kazemnejad A, Akbary M. Assessment of outer hair cell function and blood antioxidant status of rabbits exposed to noise and metal welding fumes. Auris Nasus Larynx 2007; 34:147-54. [PMID: 17064865 DOI: 10.1016/j.anl.2006.07.003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/04/2005] [Revised: 07/18/2006] [Accepted: 07/21/2006] [Indexed: 11/25/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES To investigate the interaction between welding fumes and noise in causation of hearing impairment. METHODS Groups of rabbits (n=6) were exposed to noise, welding fumes or combination of both prior to Distortion Product Otoacoustic-Emissions (DPOAEs) analysis. The function of outer hair cells (OHCs) was examined by DPOAE assessment over a broad range of frequencies. Variations in DPOAE amplitude were compared between control (n=6) and exposed (n=18) groups. RESULTS The DPOAEs levels measured at different frequencies (1379-6299 Hz) were found to decrease significantly (P<0.05) in rabbits exposed to 110 dB sound pressure level (SPL) broadband noise (8h/day, 12 days). In rabbits, exposed to carbon-steel welding fumes alone (157 mg/m(3)), the threshold shift was limited to the high frequencies (2759-6299 Hz), whereas, mixed exposure to noise and fumes resulted in reduction of DPOAEs at all the frequencies. Changes in DPOAEs were associated with increased susceptibility of erythrocytes to oxidation (P<0.05). Exposure to noise or fumes alone or simultaneously, suppressed total antioxidant ability of plasma as measured by ferric reducing ability of plasma (FRAP). Noise alone or in combination with fumes resulted in depletion of blood glutathione (GSH). Despite suppression of FRAP in the exposed groups, GSH was found to remain unchanged due to welding fumes suggesting that antioxidants other than GSH are affected by toxicants present in metal welding fumes. CONCLUSION Exposure to very high levels of welding fumes can increase noise-related effects on OHC function by extending hearing threshold shift to wide band frequencies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ramazan Mirzaee
- Department of Occupational Hygiene, Faculty of Medical Sciences, Tarbiat Modarres University, Tehran, Iran
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Dennis JH, Mortazavi SB, French MJ, Hewitt PJ, Redding CR. The effects of welding parameters on ultra-violet light emissions, ozone and CrVI formation in MIG welding. Ann Occup Hyg 1997; 41:95-104. [PMID: 9072953 DOI: 10.1016/s0003-4878(96)00023-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/04/2023]
Abstract
This paper describes the relationships between ultra-violet emission, ozone generation and CrVI production in MIG welding which were measured as a function of shield gas flow rate, welding voltage, electrode stick-out and shield gas composition using an automatic welding rig that permitted MIG welding under reproducible conditions. The experimental results are interpreted in terms of the physico-chemical processes occurring in the micro- and macro-environments of the arc as part of research into process modification to reduce occupational exposure to ozone and CrVI production rates in MIG welding. We believe the techniques described here, and in particular the use of what we have termed u.v.-ozone measurements, will prove useful in further study of ozone generation and CrVI formation and may be applied in the investigation of engineering control of occupational exposure in MIG and other welding process such as Manual Metal Arc (MMA) and Tungsten Inert Gas (TIG).
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Affiliation(s)
- J H Dennis
- Department of Environmental Science, University of Bradford, U.K
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