A. shahryari; N. Ahmadi; Y. Dadban Shahamat; R. Aali; A. Mokarary; J. Sharifi Ghojagh
Abstract
Background & objective: There is a public concern about the microbial quality of distribution water systems that it induces increasingly consumption of bottled waters in our country. In Iran, bottled waters are produced in two packaging models; small (0.5 Litter) and big (1.5 Litter); microbial load ...
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Background & objective: There is a public concern about the microbial quality of distribution water systems that it induces increasingly consumption of bottled waters in our country. In Iran, bottled waters are produced in two packaging models; small (0.5 Litter) and big (1.5 Litter); microbial load of which can be deteriorated before using by consumer and durrin storage. This study was design to assess the bacterial contamination of bottled waters and compare the ratio of contamination in small and big bottles packaged. Materials & Methods: in this descriptive and analytic study, 400 bottled water samples including 185 of small and 215 of big bottled waters were selected from Gorgan food markets during May 2014 to April 2015 from 10 popular brands. Microbial level of bottled waters were determined via Heterotrophic plate count (HPC) on the R2A medium with spread plated method. For statistical analyses, SPSS ver.23.0 were used by one sample T test and chi-square test in a P-value ofResults: The mean HPC bacteria were 8557 and 11188 Colony Forming Unit per milliliter (CFU/ml) in small and big bottled waters, respectively, which are much higher than microbial standard (500 cfu/ml) set by drinking water. Moreover, in 85.0 percent of all samples tested, HPC level was more than 500 cfu/ml; that 40.8 and 44.2 percent of its related to small and big bottles, respectively. The statistical analysis showed that the quantity of bottles water did not have a significant effect on the number of bacteria. Conclusion: Small and big bottled waters had a microbial contamination based on the heterotrophic plate count. Therefore, consumption of bottled water could be hazardous for public health particularly for lowered immunity.
Elham Alsadat Heidari; hosein alidadi; maryam sarkhosh; Somayeh Sadeghian
Abstract
Background and Objectives: Cement production process produces million tons of by products such as dust, toxic gases and heavy metals associated with health (respiratory) risks and environmental pollution. The aim of the current paper is to assess the environmental impact of Zaveh Cement plant by using ...
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Background and Objectives: Cement production process produces million tons of by products such as dust, toxic gases and heavy metals associated with health (respiratory) risks and environmental pollution. The aim of the current paper is to assess the environmental impact of Zaveh Cement plant by using Iranian Leopold Matrix. Materials and method: The current descriptive analytical study examined the current status of the region's environment; then reviewing the technical sources of the project was performed in order to identify the most important activities of operation and construction phases. Finally, Iranian matrix method was selected to assess the environmental impact of cement plant. Results: Based on the obtained results, the major negative environmental impacts on the physical part include soil pollution and erosion, air pollution, and noise pollution, respectively. The major negative biological impacts are the impacts on plant and animal species density, and the quality of the habitat, respectively. According to the results of the evaluation conducted using Iranian matrix method on Zaveh-Torbat cement plant, with the separation of construction and operation, there is no column with values less than -3.1, and the number of rows with values less than -3.1 constitutes less than 50 %. Conclusions: According to the Iranian matrix, the project of Zaveh-Torbat cement plant is acceptable with the implementation of integrated environmental management strategies.
Shamim Ramezani Azghandi; Azita Farashi; Mohsen Najjari; Mahshid Hosseini
Abstract
Abstract Background and Aim: Rodents are the largest order of mammals, with a large population on the earth, the source of many economic losses and health problems. Rodents are the reservoirs of some zoonotic diseases. Among these diseases, we can mention leishmaniasis. This study aimed to ...
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Abstract Background and Aim: Rodents are the largest order of mammals, with a large population on the earth, the source of many economic losses and health problems. Rodents are the reservoirs of some zoonotic diseases. Among these diseases, we can mention leishmaniasis. This study aimed to model the habitat suitability of Iranian Jird as a reservoir of cutaneous leishmaniasis in Iran. Materials and methods:For this purpose, 17 habitat variables including two topographic variables, seven climatic variables, and eight land use/land cover variables as habitat variables along with species presence points were used in MaxEnt modeling. Species distribution models are useful tools in identifying the areas for the presence of wildlife species and therefore are of great importance in species conservation and habitat management. Among these species distribution models, we can mention the MaxEnt model. Results:According to the results of MaxEnt modeling, the suitable habitats of Iranian Jird species cover an area of 430,900 square kilometers, accounting for 30% of Iran. Also, three geological variables, distance from the road, and land use were identified as effective variables in the habitat suitability modeling of this species of rural leishmaniasis reservoir. Another result of this study was the preparation of the habitat suitability map of Iranian Jird in both continuous and categorical forms, which showed the highest distribution in Golestan, North Khorasan, and Mazandaran provinces. Conclusion: Finally, according to the results of this modeling and the effect of biological and anthropological variables as effective variables in the habitat suitability modeling of this reservoir and the possible psychological and economic effects of leishmaniasis and lack of effective vaccines and the presence of rodents in the pathogenic cycle, the identification of reservoirs and their suitable habitats are necessary for better management of this disease. Keyword: Habitat; MaxEnt; Modeling; Leishmaniasis; Rodent; Reservoir
Seyed Mohamad Shobeiri; Mahdieh Rezaee; Elham Milani
Abstract
Background and purpose: Due to the Covid19 Pandemic and its impact on the environment from different dimensions, aim of this study was to identify and prioritize the educational needs of students of Payame Noor University in the center of South Tehran in order to achieve university green management during ...
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Background and purpose: Due to the Covid19 Pandemic and its impact on the environment from different dimensions, aim of this study was to identify and prioritize the educational needs of students of Payame Noor University in the center of South Tehran in order to achieve university green management during the Pandemic.Materials and methods: the study is practical, cross-sectional and data collection method was descriptive-survey. The statistical population of the study was students of Payame Noor University in the center of South Tehran with 7160 in the year 2020-2021 and the sample size was calculated with Cochran relation with 365 people. the sampling method is stratified and random. Educational needs were extracted by documentary method and were provided to students in the form of a questionnaire. The face validity, content and structure and reliability of it were examined and Friedman test was used to prioritize the indicators of each category.Results: 70% of the study population is female, 30% are male, 57% are undergraduate, 39% postgraduate and 4% doctoral students. The priority of educational needs in three areas of knowledge, attitude and behavior were examined, the educational needs of students in the direction of green management in the field of attitude with an average rating of 2.34 is in the first place.Conclusion: In all three areas of knowledge, the first priority was to maintain distance with other students and not to gather, especially in roofed places and, utilizing the identified priorities, the necessary proposals were presented in each area.
Mounes Asadi Shavaki; Elaheh Mahmoodi; Negin Valaei
Abstract
Background and objective: Swimming pools being some of the popular sport centers are able to potentially receive some pollutants such as nasal secretions, saliva and urine and endanger the health of swimmers. The aim of this study was to determine the bacterial and fungal pollution of swimming pools ...
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Background and objective: Swimming pools being some of the popular sport centers are able to potentially receive some pollutants such as nasal secretions, saliva and urine and endanger the health of swimmers. The aim of this study was to determine the bacterial and fungal pollution of swimming pools in Karajcity and effect of some environmental factors on it. Materials and Method: In this study, 7 pools and 103 samples including water and environmental surfaces were evaluated with standard methods. Residual chlorine, pH, number of swimmers and temperatur were studied. SPSS statistical software (version 19) was used for data analysis and the P-value was ≤ 0.05. Results: research showed that the average of PH and residual chlorine was 7/5 & 2/20 ppm, correspondingly. 24/27% of samples were positive for one or more fungal contamination. Aspergillus spp were 65/71%, Candida spp 20%, Rodotrolla spp 2/86%, other filamentous fungi 8/57% and other yeast species 2/86%.MPN test in 93/4% and HPC test in 84/6% were in the standard range. Results of tests with carpet samples showed the highest contamination was in dressing room. statistical analysis indicated that there is a direct relationship between decrease of residual chlorine, increase of number of swimmers with increaseof contamination. Conclusion: Test results indicate the presence of bacterial and fungal contamination in water and equipment pools. It is proffered to use the filtration and chlorination systems and teaching people about compliance hygiene.
Leila Teymoury Yeganeh; Hasan Karami
Abstract
Abstract Background and Aim: COVID-19, also commonly referred to as coronavirus disease, is an acute respiratory infection caused by a novel coronavirus. The virus affects the respiratory system and can cause headaches and fever for up to several days. This study aimed to investigate the preventive behaviors ...
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Abstract Background and Aim: COVID-19, also commonly referred to as coronavirus disease, is an acute respiratory infection caused by a novel coronavirus. The virus affects the respiratory system and can cause headaches and fever for up to several days. This study aimed to investigate the preventive behaviors regarding COVID-19 based on the health belief model in Kermanshah. Materials and Methods: This descriptive-analytical cross-sectional study was performed on 500 individuals in Kermanshah in 2020. The sample was selected by cluster sampling. Data were collected using a researcher-made questionnaire based on a pilot study according to the health belief model. Data were analyzed using Pearson correlation coefficient and linear regression. Results: The correlation coefficient showed that the strongest correlation was reported between the constructs of perceived barriers and in terms of behavior, the strongest correlation was observed between perceived benefits and behavior. The results of linear regression analysis predicted 17% of the variance of COVID-19 prevention behaviors. Among them, perceived sensitivity (0.593) was the strongest predictor. Results: The results of this study strongly showed the application of the health belief model in predicting the prevention behavior of COVID-19, and it seems that this model can be used in developing educational programs and interventions to change people's attitudes and behavior.
Saeed Motesaddi Zarandi; Rasul Nasiri; Mahtab Ahmadi
Abstract
Background and purpose: The environmental sustainability is a requirement for modern urban transportation systems. Selecting the appropriate option for the public transport in any urban system does not lead only to the sustainable urban transportation development, but will adapt planning process to its ...
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Background and purpose: The environmental sustainability is a requirement for modern urban transportation systems. Selecting the appropriate option for the public transport in any urban system does not lead only to the sustainable urban transportation development, but will adapt planning process to its people's characteristics and encourage the people to use it by increasing its productivity. Therefore, this study aims to assess the environmental effect of developing an electric public transport system in Tehran.Materials and Methods: In this study, after obtaining the documented and published data, including (books, transportation articles, and obtaining transportation statistics of Tehran from the bus companies and Municipal Transportation and Traffic Organization), AHP-TOPSSIS method was used to select the best option for developing the public transportation in Tehran.Results: The results showed that the option of implementing an electric transportation system with the private sector investment and government facilities (0.5798), using the electric transport systems in city center (0.3972), converting BRTs to electricity (0.2886), and non - implementation option (0.2672), respectively, had the highest and lowest priority among the development methods of public transport systems in Tehran.Conclusions: To eliminate the use of fossil fuels in near distant future to prevent the climate change and eliminate environmental pollution from fossil fuels, Tehran's urban transportation system should be implemented to eliminate the fossil fuels, develop and transform its fleet into the electrical systems
Lida Jarahi; Afsaneh Tayarani Bathaee; Majid Reza Erfanian Taghvayi
Abstract
Background & objective : Because of the diversity in biological conditions on areas with high prevalence of cutaneous leishmaniasis, providing a specific way for controlling disease in all areas is not impractical, so anselection of appropriate disease prevention method for preventing diseases ...
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Background & objective : Because of the diversity in biological conditions on areas with high prevalence of cutaneous leishmaniasis, providing a specific way for controlling disease in all areas is not impractical, so anselection of appropriate disease prevention method for preventing diseases should be selected regardingaccording to the special conditions of each area. This study investigated the effect of physical environment conditions conditions based on the prevalence of cetaceous leishmaniasis in hyperendemic areas in Mashhad, Iran. Materials & Methods: This census study ,with a survey of 2,491 households, were carried out by applying a checklist and observations to evaluate the physical environment conditions and epidemiological factors of cutaneous leishmaniasis in hyperendemic areas in Mashhad in 2012. Data analysis was done with SPSS11.5 software by Chi-square test, and Pvalue less than 0.5 was considered significant. Results: The highest prevalence of cutaneous leishmaniasis was in age group of 10-29 years, in students, college students and housewives people. Poor sanitation, existence of unused land and construction debris near the house and inappropriate yard floor covering (, by creating the suitable circumstances for proliferation sandflies) , had a significant relationship with prevalence of leishmaniasis. Building Cconstruction site near the people residence by itself didwas not show a significant difference in patients groups and healthy individuals Conclusion: If there is no accumulation of construction debris, construction by alone have not important effect ion increasing leishmaniasis. Public education. itself has no important effectPublic notification for increasing the awareness of residents of in hyperendemic areas about physical environment risk factors and training of environmental health actions such as rapid collection removal of construction debris and suitable yard flooring can lead to lower prevalence of cutaneous leishmaniasis with the intervention in sandflies living place.
Mohammad Ali Zazouli; Alireza Ala; Rostam Mozhdeh
Abstract
Background and purpose: The garbage economy is now expanding as a kind of hidden and informal economy and obviously has its causes and consequences. Given the importance of this huge portion of working capital, this study evaluates the economic performance of the centers. Solid waste recycling is discussed. ...
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Background and purpose: The garbage economy is now expanding as a kind of hidden and informal economy and obviously has its causes and consequences. Given the importance of this huge portion of working capital, this study evaluates the economic performance of the centers. Solid waste recycling is discussed. Materials and Methods: This research is a cross-sectional descriptive study. In this study, the process of economic performance assessment of solid waste recycling centers in Jouybar and Qaemshahr towns in 2018 was studied with 90 randomly selected workshops. Data analysis was performed in SPSS version 24. Results: This study shows that 60,700 kg of waste is pumped into recycling plants daily. 1% of all workshops have a productivity of less than 100 kg, 20% of all workshops have a productivity of between 100-300 kg, 39% of all workshops have a productivity of between 300-500 kg and 40% of All workshops have a production volume exceeding 500 kg. The value of manufactured products used as raw materials of factories According to Rial calculations in 2018 is about 912765000 Rials daily, without economical saving in disposal costs. Conclusion: The high potential of income generated by the activity of segregation and waste collection is significant in the riverside and upstream cities. Considering the hygiene at the source, in addition to high economic income and savings in waste disposal, entrepreneurship and employment Also provided a lot.
Marjan Teymouri Yeganeh; Leila Teymoury Yeganeh
Abstract
AbstractBackground and Aim: This study was conducted to evaluate the knowledge, practice, and attitude of food health and safety in foodservice centers in Kermanshah province during the outbreak of COVID-19.Materials and Methods: This research is a cross-sectional study. A questionnaire was used to collect ...
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AbstractBackground and Aim: This study was conducted to evaluate the knowledge, practice, and attitude of food health and safety in foodservice centers in Kermanshah province during the outbreak of COVID-19.Materials and Methods: This research is a cross-sectional study. A questionnaire was used to collect data. To determine the reliability, the questionnaire was completed twice in one week. The questionnaire was organized into four sections including demographic information, knowledge section, attitude section, and performance section. In the first part, demographic information included gender, age, level of education, income, health, and satisfaction. In the second part, 7 two-option questions on knowledge were used. In the third part, 12 questions were used with a 5-point Likert scale, and in the performance part, 10 questions were considered with a 5-point Likert scale.Results: Observing the principles of health and food safety can minimize the possibility of contamination of food with any pathogen, especially the new coronavirus. In this regard, the mean score of the respondents' attitudes (67.51 ± 3.5) was estimated. This mean was estimated to be equal in the health sector (51.48 ± 3.7) and the safety sector (58.19± 6.7). Therefore, the safety sector score was higher than the health sector score. The mean performance score of the respondents (72.45± 4.1) was estimated. This mean was estimated to be equal in the health sector (49.31 ± 2.1) and the safety sector (65.2± 7.7). Therefore, the safety sector score was higher than the health sector score. The mean score of respondents' knowledge (54.6± 71.8) was estimated. This mean was estimated to be equal in the health sector (49.31± 2.1) and the safety sector (35.11± 5.7). Therefore, the score of the health sector was higher than the safety sector score.Conclusion: The results of this study showed that the knowledge, practice, and attitude of food health and safety in foodservice centers in Kermanshah province at the time of the outbreak of COVID-19 were relatively weak. Most of the respondents were not sufficiently aware of the microorganisms in the hands and nose, the importance of hand hygiene before and during food preparation and serving, the temperature of hot food storage, and the status of microorganisms in the refrigerator. This lack of awareness can create the condition for cross-contamination and increased growth of food-borne microorganisms during the outbreak of COVID-19.
Hosein Alidadi; Habibollah Esmaili; Sayede Fateme Aghaee; Sayed Abolfazl Mirzaee; Mohammad Naser Shafiee Jafarabadi
Abstract
Background and objective: Nowadays, wastes of dental offices have become a major environmental issue for their hazardous, toxic and pathogenic features. The aim of this study was to survey on the wastes produced in dental offices of Bojnord. Materials & Methods: In this study 28 dentists' ...
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Background and objective: Nowadays, wastes of dental offices have become a major environmental issue for their hazardous, toxic and pathogenic features. The aim of this study was to survey on the wastes produced in dental offices of Bojnord. Materials & Methods: In this study 28 dentists' offices were studied. From each office, three samples were taken for three consecutive day’s week in a week. The samples were manually separated into 64 different components and weighed with a digital scale .The components were classified in 4 groups based on their hazardous characteristics. We analyzed the data by using descriptive statistics, SPSS 19 and the Excel software. Results: The total wastes production was 6162.31 Kg in one year. The share of infectious, semi household, chemical - pharmaceutical and toxic wastes was 40.85, 49.99, 7.47, and 1.69% respectively. The main wastes produced in dental offices consisted of 16 components which can be considered as more than 80% of the dental wastes. Conclusion:It is suggested that dentists should be trained to reduce, separate and recycle the wastes in accordance with relevant rules and regulations. Because the segregation of recyclable parts from dental wastes can lead to reduction of a large amount of wastes and so that the costs of collection, transportation, disposal and disinfecting will be reduced.
mahin karbar; aliasghar najaf poor; hossein alidade; Habibollah Esmaily
Abstract
Introduction: Daily excreted large amounts of waste from human communities in different ways. A significant portion of this waste consists of organic material. The recycling of these materials and using them in different ways prevent the damage caused to the environment and conserve resources and energy ...
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Introduction: Daily excreted large amounts of waste from human communities in different ways. A significant portion of this waste consists of organic material. The recycling of these materials and using them in different ways prevent the damage caused to the environment and conserve resources and energy is human attention. One of the appropriate methods of disposal of these wastes, production of organic fertilizer, vermicompost is. Objectives & ( hypothesis OR questions): Given that the municipality Ghochan, rotted cow manure and dried leaves of the trees used to produce vermicompost In this study the vermicompost production of cow manure, fruit waste, paper, sawdust and leaves (as carbon source) and germination index vermicompost is examined To finally be able to obtain the best additive to produce vermicompost. Materials & Methods: 5 treatments that are used to carry out the plan include: cow manure- Fruit lesions- Sawdust- leaf- Paper- Composition of the waste. Results: Used waste includes waste sawdust, fruit, paper, leaf and composition of the waste is suitable for vermicomposting is Eisenia fetida earthworms and proper nutrition. Waste paper to produce vermicompost alone is not suitable and it is better to prepare vermicompost should be used in combination with other organic wastes.. Conclusion: Changes of ash and carbon and C / N ratio indicates the fact that virtually After 70 days, the bedding materials are firmly established.
Marzieh Khan Beigi; Mohamad Ezati Asar; Hamidreza Nasehinia
Abstract
ABSTRACT Introduction: Today, despite advances in science and technology to save patients, it causes nosocomial infections that it is not possible to completely eliminate these infections anywhere in the world at present, but Undoubtedly, the most effective, least expensive, and most desirable way to ...
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ABSTRACT Introduction: Today, despite advances in science and technology to save patients, it causes nosocomial infections that it is not possible to completely eliminate these infections anywhere in the world at present, but Undoubtedly, the most effective, least expensive, and most desirable way to fight infection at any time and place is to prevent it. In this study, due to the importance of the issue and the lack of studies in this regard, we have investigated the prevalence of nosocomial infections in Damghan hospital. Methods: This is a descriptive cross-sectional study that was conducted in Damghan province hospital between 2011 to2015 after referring to the provincial hospital and reviewing the records of all patients, people with nosocomial infections were identified and the data were extracted and after collecting the required data, this data was analyzed by SPSS statistical software. Results: In the present study, out of 34663 hospitalized patients, 116 cases of nosocomial infections were identified. Among these, the most common variables in terms of the year of diagnosis, the year 2014 (27.6%); Diagnosis season, autumn (27.27%); surgical ward (32.8%); Type of infection, respiratory (39.7%). Discussion & Conclusion: A simple review of the documents studied in this study shows that the prevalence of nosocomial infections in Iran is relatively high. Therefore, the development of appropriate control and training programs based on evidence to reduce the prevalence of nosocomial infections in Iran should be considered by policymakers. Document Type: Research article Keywords: Nosocomial Infection, Hospital, Safety
Aref Lotfian Daloee; Javad Moghri
Abstract
Background and purpose: The Covid-19 pandemic has had a significant impact on various aspects of people's lives. Different countries have adopted different policies to combat this disease. The purpose of this study is to review the policies adopted in the field of environmental health to combat Covid-19 ...
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Background and purpose: The Covid-19 pandemic has had a significant impact on various aspects of people's lives. Different countries have adopted different policies to combat this disease. The purpose of this study is to review the policies adopted in the field of environmental health to combat Covid-19 in Iran.Materials and methods: This qualitative study was performed by document analysis method in February 2022. The research population was purposefully determined in consultation with six health policy and environmental health experts. For this purpose, the policies of the National Corona Headquarters as the highest policy reference in the field of Covid-19 were studied. Data analysis was performed using conventional content analysis method and MAXQDA software version 12.Results: In total, 255 codes, 25 sub-themes and 7 main themes in the field of environmental health to combat Covid-19 were identified. Public social activities, public environmental health, social distancing, borders control, infrastructure development, procurement and distribution of personal protective and disinfection equipment, and monitoring were the main themes identified in this research.Conclusion: So far, a range of different policies in the field of environmental health have been adopted in Iran to deal with Covid-19. Local and international evidence, experiences of other countries, and socio-economic and political determinants play significant roles in policy development, policy reform, or abandoning previous policies.
Mojtaba G.Mahmoodlu; Tara Sotoudehnia
Abstract
Background and Purpose: Groundwater serves as the primary drinking water source in Golestan Province. Therefore, this study aims to assess the non-cancerous health risks associated with nitrate and fluoride in the province's drinking water sources. Materials and Methods: Physicochemical data from ...
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Background and Purpose: Groundwater serves as the primary drinking water source in Golestan Province. Therefore, this study aims to assess the non-cancerous health risks associated with nitrate and fluoride in the province's drinking water sources. Materials and Methods: Physicochemical data from 139 drinking water wells were obtained from the Golestan Province Water and Wastewater Company during the spring and autumn. Significant ion variations were analyzed, and factors influencing the chemistry of drinking water sources in Golestan Province were investigated. Non-carcinogenic health risks posed by nitrate and fluoride were assessed using two indicators provided by the United States Environmental Protection Agency. Results: The maximum nitrate concentration in certain Golestan Province cities exceeds the Iranian drinking water standards (1053) and the World Health Organization's limits. However, fluoride levels in most cities fall below the range stipulated by domestic and international standards. The nitrate risk factor for children in select cities exceeds one, while it remains below one for other age groups. Notably, Khan Bebin City exhibits the lowest nitrate risk factor among the province's cities. Additionally, risk factor values show a slight increase during the autumn season. Non-cancerous health risk assessments for fluoride in drinking water sources across Golestan Province during spring and autumn indicate risk values below one for all age groups, including infants, children, teenagers, and adults. Conclusion: The health risk assessments for nitrates and fluorides indicate that children in certain cities face a higher risk from nitrates than adults. Moreover, the low fluoride levels in the province's drinking water sources increase the likelihood of tooth decay.
Alireza Zahraei Ramazani; Majid Kababian; Hasan Vatandoost; Mozhgan Baniardalani; Seyed Hassan Musa Kazemi; Saideh Yousefi; Amir Hossein Mahvi; Amrullah Azarm; Soudebeh Hamedi Shahraki; Shahrokh Izadi; Zahra Hajivand; Hamed Zahraei Ramazani
Abstract
Background and purpose: Mosquito-borne diseases are serious health problems in many countries around the world, and the widespread distribution of their vectors has a major impact on the transmission and spread of these diseases. Mosquitoes play a key role in transmitting arboviruses such as West Nile, ...
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Background and purpose: Mosquito-borne diseases are serious health problems in many countries around the world, and the widespread distribution of their vectors has a major impact on the transmission and spread of these diseases. Mosquitoes play a key role in transmitting arboviruses such as West Nile, Dengue Fever, Chikungunya, Sindbis, Zika, Rift Valley Fever, Batai virus, Usutu virus, East Horse Encephalitis (EEE), and West Nile Virus (WNV), and also some suspected emerging viral agents, such as SARS-CoV-2 (causative agent of COVID-190) and the Zika Virus in the world.There are several methods for mosquitoes larval control. An important challenge in mosquitoes control programs is their resistance to different groups of insecticides. The ultrasonic device is a novel and natural friendly approach for controlling insecticide resistance mosquitoes.Materials and methods: In this study, Ultrasonic TI-H5 device of Elma Company were used against 4th instar larvae of Culex pipiens under laboratory condition. Different variables including; Electrical power (50,100,200, 250 watts), exposure times (1, 2.5, 5, 10, 15 minutes) at two frequencies of 35, and 130 Kilohertz were employed.Results: Mortality of 4th instar larvae at 35 KH and different exposure time with specific Electronic power was 100%. In 130 KH with increasing exposure time, the mortality was increased.Conclusion: Insecticides are one of the causes of environmental and water pollution. Also, due to the resistance of mosquitoes to insecticides, the new safe, cost-effective and effective method in integrated pest management programs is the control of mosquito larvae using ultrasonic waves.
Alireza Mirzahosseini; Fatemeh Ebrahimi; Nabiollah Mansouri
Abstract
Background and purpose: Industrial development, on one hand, creates harmful chemical products and industrial waste, including heavy metals. On the other hand, it increases energy consumption and leads to the release of atmospheric pollutants, causing environmental pollution. Bandar Abbas, compared to ...
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Background and purpose: Industrial development, on one hand, creates harmful chemical products and industrial waste, including heavy metals. On the other hand, it increases energy consumption and leads to the release of atmospheric pollutants, causing environmental pollution. Bandar Abbas, compared to other areas of Hormozgan province, has a high concentration of industries. Therefore, it is necessary to study the pollution caused by these industries in the region's environment. The general purpose of this study is to investigate the amount of heavy metals associated with industrial activity.Materials and Methods: Ambient air sampling was conducted at seven locations in the region during winter and spring (2020). The sampling and preparation methods were based on EPA and NIOSH Standards. Sampling was performed using a High-Volume pump with a flow rate of 1.7 cubic meters per minute for a duration of 24 hours. The sampling device was installed at a height of 3 meters above the ground. The heavy metals in the collected samples were measured using the Varian Z220 atomic absorption spectrometer with the furnace technique. Circular fiberglass filters with a diameter of 47 mm were used for environmental sampling.Results: Based on the analysis of air particles, the concentration of heavy metals showed a decreasing trend as follows: V < Cd < Fe < Pb. The average concentrations of these elements were 0.0006, 0.0060, 0.0061, and 0.339 micrograms per cubic meter, respectively. With the exception of lead, the average concentration of these metals exceeded the limit value.Conclusion: The amount of suspended particles at all sampling locations exceeded the environmental standards. Additionally, except for vanadium, the average concentration of metals in the samples from residential areas was below the limit value.
Fatemeh Sadat Arghavan; Behnam Barikbin; Negin Nasseh; Hosein Alidadi
Abstract
Background and Purpose: Removing pharmaceutical substances from wastewater is essential due to their high stability and toxic effects on humans and other living organisms before they enter the environment. Green-synthesized nanocomposites possess significant abilities to degrade pharmaceutical compounds ...
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Background and Purpose: Removing pharmaceutical substances from wastewater is essential due to their high stability and toxic effects on humans and other living organisms before they enter the environment. Green-synthesized nanocomposites possess significant abilities to degrade pharmaceutical compounds and exhibit antibacterial effects. Therefore, this study aimed to investigate the photocatalytic and antibacterial effects of a green-synthesized magnetic nanocomposite.Materials and Methods: In this experimental study, the photocatalytic process was conducted on a solution containing tetracycline to examine the photocatalytic capabilities of the synthesized nanocomposite. The antibacterial effect of the nanocomposite was also assessed on Gram-negative and Gram-positive bacteria using the broth dilution method.Results: The results of the tetracycline antibiotic photocatalytic degradation test showed a removal rate of 87.95% under the following conditions: pH = 7, nanocomposite dose = 0.26 g/L, contact time = 54 min, and initial TC concentration of 10 mg/L. The minimum inhibitory concentration (MIC) of the synthesized nanocomposite was determined to be 1.25 mg/mL for Staphylococcus aureus bacteria and 5 mg/mL for Escherichia coli and Klebsiella bacteria. The minimum bactericidal concentration (MBC) against Escherichia coli and Staphylococcus aureus bacteria was found to be 5 mg/mL.Conclusion: In addition to the inhibitory and bactericidal capabilities of the manganese-ferrite-based nanocomposite, it can be utilized as a powerful catalyst for the degradation of tetracycline antibiotics in aqueous solutions
Lida Eftekhari Vash; Ali Reza Dehnad; Mohammad Majdizadeh
Abstract
Background and Purpose: Considering the role of hydrocarbon pollution in cancer, this research aims to investigate the degradation rate of benzene and toluene using bacteria extracted from soil, as well as to examine the compounds resulting from this decomposition.Materials and Methods: Thirty soil samples, ...
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Background and Purpose: Considering the role of hydrocarbon pollution in cancer, this research aims to investigate the degradation rate of benzene and toluene using bacteria extracted from soil, as well as to examine the compounds resulting from this decomposition.Materials and Methods: Thirty soil samples, including agricultural soil and soil contaminated with hydrocarbons, were collected from the northwestern provinces of Iran. Bacteria were cultured in agar medium and subsequently extracted. To assess the decomposition of benzene and toluene, bacteria were separately cultured in a mineral culture medium containing a specific amount of benzene or toluene, and the percentage of decomposition was determined. Additionally, GC-Mass analysis was conducted to identify the compounds resulting from the decomposition of benzene and toluene. The type of bacteria responsible for the degradation was determined using biochemical methods and PCRResults: All the extracted bacteria exhibited the ability to decompose benzene and toluene, with the highest decomposition rates observed in bacteria extracted from refinery soil, averaging 55.85% for benzene and 49.39% for toluene. Agricultural and refinery soil bacteria displayed a higher decomposition rate for benzene compared to toluene. The majority of the compounds obtained from the decomposition had lower toxicity than benzene and toluene. Furthermore, the presence of the Streptomyces strain was confirmed in environments with the highest decomposition rates for benzene and toluene.Conclusion: Streptomyces strains indigenous to soils contaminated with hydrocarbons demonstrated a high efficiency in converting benzene and toluene into organic compounds, reducing the associated risks.
Masoomeh Koohi; Atefeh Chamani
Abstract
Background and Purpose: The Zayandeh-Rud River is the sole permanent river in the central plateau of Iran. This river has been extensively exposed to sewage and effluent discharge from various point and non-point sources of pollution. Consequently, the sediment quality of the Zayandeh-Rud River was investigated.Materials ...
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Background and Purpose: The Zayandeh-Rud River is the sole permanent river in the central plateau of Iran. This river has been extensively exposed to sewage and effluent discharge from various point and non-point sources of pollution. Consequently, the sediment quality of the Zayandeh-Rud River was investigated.Materials and methods: Sediment sampling was conducted in triplicates at six stations along the Zayandeh-Rud River during the spring, summer, autumn, and winter of 2019-2020. The concentrations of lead and cadmium were then determined. Subsequently, the bioaccumulation factor, Müller's geochemical index, contamination factor, contamination degree, modified contamination degree, potential ecological risk index, and pollution load index were calculated.Results: The results indicated that the mean concentrations of cadmium in spring, summer, autumn, and winter were 1.18, 1.13, 1.08, and 0.54 mg/kg, respectively. Additionally, the mean concentration of lead was 26.13, 23.04, 23.96, and 11.17 mg/kg, respectively. The ecological risk assessment index revealed that the region was at a moderate ecological risk during spring, summer, and autumn, while during winter, it was at a low ecological risk.Conclusion: A comparison between the mean metal concentrations and the Canadian sediment quality standard values for fresh waters demonstrated that the lead concentration in sediments is lower than the standard value, whereas cadmium exceeds the standard value. These results highlight the pollution status of the river, which is the primary source of freshwater in the central plateau of Iran. Moreover, this study can serve as a basis for implementing policies to mitigate the accumulation of heavy metals in aquatic ecosystems.
Mona Mansouri; Aptin Rahnavard; Masood Ghane
Abstract
Background and purpose: Diazinon is an organophosphorus insecticide that is widely used in paddy fields and gardens. The entry of resistant pollutants into drinking water sources, soil, and agricultural products can be harmful to human health and the environment. This study aimed to identify and isolate ...
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Background and purpose: Diazinon is an organophosphorus insecticide that is widely used in paddy fields and gardens. The entry of resistant pollutants into drinking water sources, soil, and agricultural products can be harmful to human health and the environment. This study aimed to identify and isolate diazinon-degrading bacteria and measure the amount of poison decomposed by superior bacteria in liquid and soil environments.Materials and methods: Sampling was conducted from Tonekabon gardens. The strains were identified and sequenced using polymerase chain reaction based on 16S rRNA. The rate of diazinon degradation by the isolated bacteria was measured by gas chromatographyResults: Two strains of diazinon-degrading bacteria, Serratia and Enterobacter cloacae, were identified. Bacteria with diazinon concentrations of 10 and 20 ppm were cultured in broth and soil for 10 days, and the amount of poison decomposition was measured. The results indicated that Serratia bacteria in the broth medium, with initial concentrations of 10 and 20 ppm, consumed 64.3% and 78.4% of diazinon, respectively, while in the soil with the same concentration, it decomposed 90.2% and 98.25% of diazinon. Enterobacter cloacae bacteria consumed and decomposed diazinon in the broth and soil environments, with percentages of 23.1, 17.95, 31.19, and 88.05%, respectively. According to the results, Serratia has a higher decomposition ability compared to Enterobacter.Conclusion: The results of this research showed that some microorganisms in the soil have the ability to decompose diazinon. Utilizing these microorganisms and other biological methods to clean contaminated soils can be a suitable approach.
Samira Abduolrahimi; Ali Akbar Safari Sinegani
Abstract
Background and Purpose: The biological pollution of landfill sites for urban waste is a crucial concern. This study aims to investigate the resistance of bacteria in contaminated soils at waste burial sites against heavy metals in Hamadan.Materials and methods: The physical and chemical characteristics ...
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Background and Purpose: The biological pollution of landfill sites for urban waste is a crucial concern. This study aims to investigate the resistance of bacteria in contaminated soils at waste burial sites against heavy metals in Hamadan.Materials and methods: The physical and chemical characteristics of soils were examined, and the total amounts of metals such as copper, lead, zinc, and cadmium were measured. Additionally, pollution load index (PLI), average pollution index (PIavg), and pollution degree (Cdeg) were estimated and analyzed. Furthermore, the percentage of stable bacteria resistant to copper, lead, cadmium, and zinc in the NA culture medium was studied by measuring the logarithm of microorganism abundanceResults: Among the mentioned sites, the soil surrounding the leachate lagoon exhibited the highest levels of organic carbon, available phosphorus, and potassium. The PLI and PIavg indices for virgin soil were below one, indicating that this soil was not polluted. However, these indices were above one for the other five sites, indicating pollution. The intensity of soil pollution in these sites exceeded the permissible limit. The logarithm of population for fungi, actinomycetes, pseudomonas, and enterobacters was highest in the new rubbish landfill, with values of 5.35, 5.28, 6.13, and 5.98, respectively. The percentage of bacteria resistant to lead was 100% in all sampled soils, but in the leachate, it was lower than 64%.Conclusion: Overall, the percentages of bacteria resistant to copper, zinc, and cadmium in the new rubbish landfill site were higher compared to other sites, which may be attributed to the landfilling of urban waste in the soil.
Talieh Abdolkhani Nezhad; Seyed Masoud Monavari
Abstract
Background and Purpose: The study aims to examine the risks associated with waste landfill projects during the operational phase, with a focus on improving performance and reducing resulting injuries. Conducting environmental risk assessment studies is essential to better comprehend the hazardous criteria ...
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Background and Purpose: The study aims to examine the risks associated with waste landfill projects during the operational phase, with a focus on improving performance and reducing resulting injuries. Conducting environmental risk assessment studies is essential to better comprehend the hazardous criteria and their impact on the environment, as well as to propose effective solutions for control and management. As the central city of Gilan, Rasht receives over 750 tons of waste daily at the Saravan landfill.Materials and methods: This research utilizes Delphi techniques, network analysis process (ANP), and TOPSIS to prioritize and rank the most significant risks in the operational phase of the Rasht waste landfill. The Bow-Tie model is employed to develop control and mitigation strategies.Results: Environmental risks pose the greatest challenges in the Saravan Rasht landfill. Prioritization results, based on safety-sanitary criteria, reveal that the excessive use of repellants, such as insecticides, in the Saravan landfill is of utmost priority. Regarding the environmental criterion, seepage from the bottom of the landfill takes precedence, while the economic-social criterion emphasizes the high costs associated with controlling and developing the waste landfill's health engineering.Conclusion: Identifying and prioritizing risks in the landfill site facilitates the implementation of appropriate solutions for their reduction and control. The criteria influencing risk assessment are subject to constant change. The selection of an appropriate risk identification method enhances the efficiency of the chosen approach and ensures accurate determination of risks within the waste landfill. The bowtie method provides a more realistic understanding of the relationship between factors influencing risk occurrence, resulting consequences, and barriers that can hinder risks during the operational phase.
Amir Zarei; Sirvan Zarei; Vahid Kakapor; Mohamad Hossein Vazeri; Eqbal Mohammadi; Hossein Aghighi
Abstract
Background and Purpose: Air quality control is an inevitable issue at the forefront of national concerns. The aim of this study was to predict the daily concentration of PM2.5.Materials and methods: According to the objective, the type of research can be considered practical, and the statistical population ...
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Background and Purpose: Air quality control is an inevitable issue at the forefront of national concerns. The aim of this study was to predict the daily concentration of PM2.5.Materials and methods: According to the objective, the type of research can be considered practical, and the statistical population of the research includes meteorological and pollution measuring stations within the 22 districts of Tehran. However, the statistical sample (synoptic geophysical station and Tarbiat Modares measuring station) was selected using a non-random sampling method. The desired statistical year for the study included the daily data from the selected stations for one year. Eleven input variables were used, which included meteorological data from the geophysical synoptic station (maximum and minimum temperature, minimum and maximum relative humidity, rainfall, maximum wind speed, and wind direction) and pollution data of PM2.5 concentration from the Tarbiat Modares station (daily concentrations of PM2.5 and the previous day). The support vector machine (SVM) model was used for prediction in this step.Results: The model was able to predict the daily concentration values of the PM2.5 pollutant for the upcoming days with a detection coefficient R² = 0.611 and RMSE = 10.87. In the second method, the support vector machine (SVM) model was combined with principal component analysis (PCA) to reduce the number of variables and perform modeling.Conclusion: The results of this study show that the performance of the combined model is superior to the previous model, as the coefficient of determination R² increased to 0.65 and the error value decreased to 10.37 RMSE (root mean square error). This hybrid model (PCA-SVM) can assist city managers and decision-makers in controlling and reducing the amount of PM2.5 pollutants.
Maryam Bahiraei
Abstract
Background and purpose: Urban waste leachate due to had organic matter, minerals and heavy metals as one of the environmental problems has require treatment. Surface absorption is one of the methods used in absorbing contaminants by absorbent materials. In this study, the efficiency of removal of zinc ...
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Background and purpose: Urban waste leachate due to had organic matter, minerals and heavy metals as one of the environmental problems has require treatment. Surface absorption is one of the methods used in absorbing contaminants by absorbent materials. In this study, the efficiency of removal of zinc from leachate of landfill waste in Hamadan city by absorbent of banana skin modified by acidic solution has been investigated.Materials and Methods: In study of descriptive-analytical, the effect of contact time, adsorbent amount, pH and concentration variables performed on the efficiency of Zn metal removal from leachate. In order to investigate the interaction between the adsorbent and the absorbed object were used the absorption models of Langmuir and Freundlich isotherm and aspect investigation the velocity of the adsorption process were used from the adsorption kinetics of first and second order pseudo-adsorption.Results: The highest efficiency of zinc removal (92%) was caused by adsorbent of banana fruit skin modified in the optimum pH 7, the contact time 70 minutes, the adsorbent amount 6 g/l concentration 1 mg/l. The maximum absorbent absorption capacity was also determined 34 mg/g. The results showed that the behavior of the desired process followed Langmuir adsorption isotherm model and its kinetics is adapted to the second-order pseudo-reaction.Conclusion: The use of natural adsorbent banana fruit skin modified by nitric acid solution has a high ability to remove zinc metal from leachate and can be used as an appropriate replacement for reducing the problems caused by common chemical adsorption.