Search published articles
Showing 861 results for Ability
Volume 0, Issue 0 (1-2024)
Abstract
The Ministry of Agriculture Jihad in Iran implemented contract farming (CF) for wheat in 2021 to address marketing issues. This study compares agricultural sustainability for farmers participating in and not participating in CF. Agricultural sustainability was assessed by applying a combined index approach that considers economic, social, and environmental dimensions. The required data came from 620 wheat farmers in Golestan province, sampled using the multi-stage randomization technique. The data were evaluated using exploratory factor analysis (EFA) and clustering methods. The findings indicated a significant difference in the performance of economic and environmental sustainability dimensions between two groups of wheat farmers. For the participants, 14.2% were deemed unsustainable, 47.7% were considered partially sustainable, and 38.1% were classified as sustainable. For non-participants, the figures were 38.7%, 47.7%, and 13.5%, respectively. Therefore, it is suggested to provide more opportunities for participation in this program and expand it to other key crops. Additionally, authorities should provide more information about the benefits of the CF plan.
Volume 0, Issue 0 (1-2024)
Abstract
This research aimed to explain and validate the green curriculum’s (GC) characteristics based on the critical competencies of education for the 21st century. Hence, a mixed research method was used. In the qualitative section, being used for identifying characteristics of GC, experts who have scientific experience(s) related to sustainability in Iran's higher education system were selected using snowball sampling, data were collected and analyzed through semi-structured interviews and content analysis, respectively. The validity of the identified GC characteristics was examined quantitatively based on the Lawshe method. In this section, based on the Lawshe method, 40 faculty members and doctoral students in educational sciences were selected using simple random sampling to evaluate the characteristics’ appropriateness by a three-level scale. Based on the results, 50 characteristics were extracted from the interviews and the documents. However, two of them were not acceptable based on the Lawshe method. Moreover, results revealed that each of the five competencies defined for education in the 21st century (including learning to know, learning to be, learning to do, learning to live together, and learning to transform oneself and society) is aligned with several characteristics of the green curriculum. Finally, some of our suggestions to operationalize the mentioned competencies in the format of GC can be offered as follow; considering environmental management in academic curricula in various fields, defining practical projects for students to apply whatever they have learned, encouraging students to communicate with environmental organizations, and also global research communities to widen their horizons toward environmental issues.
Volume 0, Issue 0 (1-2024)
Abstract
Extension field staff is the group of people who are responsible for managing activities related to agricultural information dissemination and farming community is the recipient or audience of that knowledge by implementing this knowledge on farm, farming community may enhance their farm productivity and uplift socio-economic situation. The Present study was based on primary data, collected from agricultural extension field staff (EFS) using interview schedule in cotton belt of Punjab province. Three hundred and fifty-nine (359) extension field staff workers were selected from population of five hundred and forty (540) by using Cochran sampling technique. Moreover, Borich needs assessment model was implied to prioritize the training needs of EFS about climate adaptation. Study found that majority of the EFS seek trainings in specific areas regarding climate variability including; skills to use meteorological instrument, ability to comprehend early warning system, serving and mapping of climatic variability areas, management of ICT tools for weather forecasting, disaster management skills, and integrated soil management skills by acquiring these competencies they can effectively and efficiently work for minimizing the consequences of climate variability on cotton crop. There was significant positive correlation of 0.608 between specialization and possessed competencies regarding climate adaptation which shows that specialized extension staff possessed competencies regarding climate adaptation. On the basis of findings study suggests that the training needs of the extension field workers should be assessed regularly regarding various latest techniques and technologies. Training sessions regarding climate variability adaptation should be arranged for extension workers of cotton belt.
Volume 0, Issue 0 (1-2024)
Abstract
Probiotic juices have experienced a notable rise in popularity due to their potential health benefits, particularly for digestive health. This study examined the viability, physicochemical characteristics, and sensory qualities of kiwifruit juice containing Lacticaseibacillus paracasei B31-2. To analyze the data, Gaussian Process Regression (GPR) and Multi-Layer Perceptron (MLP) models were used to predict various factors, including pH, acidity, viable cell counts of L. paracasei B31-2, color differences (ΔE), and overall acceptance. Probiotic L. paracasei B31-2 was added to the kiwifruit juice at different concentrations (0%, 1% and 2%) and stored at 4 °C. The probiotic juices showed fewer changes in pH, acidity, and color compared to the control juice during storage at room temperature. The sample with a 2% probiotic concentration exhibited the highest viable cell count (7.98 log CFU/mL) and received the most sensory scores among the tested samples. A strong correlation between the predictions made by the GPR model and the actual observed data further validated its effectiveness in similar experimental contexts. This suggests that GPR could offer strategic benefits by lowering laboratory costs and improving analytical efficiency. The GPR model's precision in closely matching real-world data demonstrates its potential as a cost-effective and expedited tool for scientific inquiries. Overall, these findings indicate that kiwifruit juice serves as a promising substrate for carrier of L. paracasei B31-2
Volume 0, Issue 0 (8-2024)
Abstract
Foothills, plains, alluvial areas, and sloping areas whose soil is geologically susceptible to landslides, can become unstable and dangerous. In Iran, because of their soil type, Mazandaran, Gilan, Lorestan, Golestan and Khuzestan provinces are more vulnerable to landslides than other provinces. But taking into account factors such as earthquakes, extreme weather, and human interference, other parts of the country can also be prone to landslides. In case of rainfall and absorption of water by clay layers, the possibility of landslides increases. If the slope of the land is suitable, the slope will move on the clay layer and the thrust will occur downwards. In many mountains and steep areas, the conditions for slope failure may be available in terms of the slope angle, the type of soil and the presence of clay layers. But in the absence of sufficient soil moisture, this phenomenon is not observed. Landslides occur whenever rainfall happens and water penetrates the clay layer. Cutting down forest trees, destroying vegetation and pastures, along with possible rainfall and soil moisture, cam cause landslides on steep slopes. In fact, land use changes contribute to landslides. By examining the statistics over the last three decades in the northern provinces of Iran, it can be seen that landslides were far less likely when there was proper vegetation. The occurrence of heavy rains can cause failure in a large number of soil slopes. During these heavy rainfalls, the underground water level rises and increases the pore water pressure and reduces the stability of the soil. The purpose of this study is to investigate changes in pore water pressure and the factor of safety for slope stability. The flow of water inside the soil is numerically modeled as a two-dimensional, saturated-unsaturated, unsteady flow. The finite element method (FEM) is used to calculate the pore water pressure and the limit equilibrium method is used to determine the factor of safety for slope stability. To simulate the unsteady flow, time duration of 4 days is used with a time step of 0.1 days. The rainfall duration was assumed to be 24 hours. The intensities of different rainfalls are used as the input flux on the soil surface. The soil moisture curve, which shows the relationship between suction-moisture content and suction-hydraulic conductivity, is used. The results show that different rainfall intensities have different effects on soil moisture profile. As the intensity of precipitation increase, the factor of safety of slope stability decreases. This decrease is steeper for the first 24 hours of rainfall and over the three days after the rain stopped, its slope decreased. For example, for a rainfall intensity of 2.04 mm/hour and the duration of one day, resulted in a factor of safety of slope stability equal to 1.853, and at the end of the fourth day, it was 1.743. In other words, the factor of safety decreased by 5.9%.
Volume 0, Issue 0 (12-2024)
Abstract
Aim and Introduction:
A growing body of research highlights the bidirectional relationship between conflict and economic performance. Findings indicate that economic decline—particularly severe recessions that reduce income levels, exacerbate inequalities, and intensify widespread economic distress—can fuel social unrest and internal conflicts. Periods characterized by a high risk of government collapse are associated with significantly lower rates of economic growth compared to more politically stable periods. Although such violent events may not occur frequently, they are prevalent worldwide and have affected numerous countries.
The Middle East, in particular, has long been afflicted by internal unrest, persistent conflicts, and intra- and intergovernmental tensions—all of which adversely influence national economies. Political economy literature underscores a complex interplay between political forces and economic direction, suggesting that political instability can disrupt economic continuity and hinder economic growth—a central indicator of national economic performance.
Accordingly, the primary objective of this study is to model the effects of political instability and conflict on economic growth in a sample of developing and developed countries, namely Iran, Iraq, Saudi Arabia, Russia, the United States, India, China, and Canada.
Methodology:
This study adopts a descriptive-analytical approach with practical applications, relying on secondary data collected through documentary research. The analytical method employed is the Bayesian Markov Switching Panel Regression, which effectively captures symmetric and asymmetric effects across different economic regimes.
The selected countries—spanning both developed and developing contexts—include Iran, Iraq, and Saudi Arabia, which have historically faced political tension and oil revenue fluctuations, as well as Russia, Canada, the United States, India, and China. The inclusion of India and China reflects their status as major global energy consumers. These countries were chosen based on their exposure to international tensions and their substantial influence on the global energy landscape.
The study period covers 1990 to 2020. The Markov switching panel framework enables the model to differentiate the impact of explanatory variables across distinct economic regimes. For instance, political stability may influence economic growth differently during recessionary periods compared to times of economic expansion. The variables analyzed include conflict intensity, political instability, oil income, population growth, foreign direct investment, life expectancy, government expenditure, budget deficits, trade openness, and the governance quality index.
Results and Discussion:
The analysis reveals that conflict and economic instability exert statistically significant effects on economic growth across both recession and growth regimes. In the recession regime, the coefficients for conflict and instability are 0.17% and 0.12%, respectively, while in the growth regime, they are slightly lower at 0.16% and 0.11%. Although both variables remain significant in both regimes, their influence is more pronounced during recessions, implying that political instability and conflict are more detrimental to growth when the economy is already underperforming.
These findings are consistent with prior research by Ashenfelter and Troeger (2006), Gaybulov and Sandler (2019), and Bart et al. (2021). Additionally, variables such as oil income, population growth, foreign direct investment, life expectancy, government expenditure, trade openness, and governance quality all exhibit positive and statistically significant effects on economic growth in both regimes.
The dominant economic regime identified in the study is the growth regime. Notably, with the exception of Iraq, Iran, and Saudi Arabia, the other countries analyzed have been experiencing economic growth in recent years. This observation underscores the correlation between political stability and sustained economic performance.
Conclusion:
The findings of this research emphasize the critical role of political stability in fostering a robust and resilient economic environment. A stable political climate is not only essential for social cohesion but also serves as a prerequisite for sustained economic growth and development. Policymakers are thus encouraged to invest in institutional reforms, infrastructure development, and inclusive governance frameworks that enhance citizens’ participation in decision-making processes. These measures can significantly contribute to both political stability and long-term economic prosperity in the countries under study.
A growing body of research highlights the bidirectional relationship between conflict and economic performance. Findings indicate that economic decline—particularly severe recessions that reduce income levels, exacerbate inequalities, and intensify widespread economic distress—can fuel social unrest and internal conflicts. Periods characterized by a high risk of government collapse are associated with significantly lower rates of economic growth compared to more politically stable periods. Although such violent events may not occur frequently, they are prevalent worldwide and have affected numerous countries.
The Middle East, in particular, has long been afflicted by internal unrest, persistent conflicts, and intra- and intergovernmental tensions—all of which adversely influence national economies. Political economy literature underscores a complex interplay between political forces and economic direction, suggesting that political instability can disrupt economic continuity and hinder economic growth—a central indicator of national economic performance.
Accordingly, the primary objective of this study is to model the effects of political instability and conflict on economic growth in a sample of developing and developed countries, namely Iran, Iraq, Saudi Arabia, Russia, the United States, India, China, and Canada.
Methodology:
This study adopts a descriptive-analytical approach with practical applications, relying on secondary data collected through documentary research. The analytical method employed is the Bayesian Markov Switching Panel Regression, which effectively captures symmetric and asymmetric effects across different economic regimes.
The selected countries—spanning both developed and developing contexts—include Iran, Iraq, and Saudi Arabia, which have historically faced political tension and oil revenue fluctuations, as well as Russia, Canada, the United States, India, and China. The inclusion of India and China reflects their status as major global energy consumers. These countries were chosen based on their exposure to international tensions and their substantial influence on the global energy landscape.
The study period covers 1990 to 2020. The Markov switching panel framework enables the model to differentiate the impact of explanatory variables across distinct economic regimes. For instance, political stability may influence economic growth differently during recessionary periods compared to times of economic expansion. The variables analyzed include conflict intensity, political instability, oil income, population growth, foreign direct investment, life expectancy, government expenditure, budget deficits, trade openness, and the governance quality index.
Results and Discussion:
The analysis reveals that conflict and economic instability exert statistically significant effects on economic growth across both recession and growth regimes. In the recession regime, the coefficients for conflict and instability are 0.17% and 0.12%, respectively, while in the growth regime, they are slightly lower at 0.16% and 0.11%. Although both variables remain significant in both regimes, their influence is more pronounced during recessions, implying that political instability and conflict are more detrimental to growth when the economy is already underperforming.
These findings are consistent with prior research by Ashenfelter and Troeger (2006), Gaybulov and Sandler (2019), and Bart et al. (2021). Additionally, variables such as oil income, population growth, foreign direct investment, life expectancy, government expenditure, trade openness, and governance quality all exhibit positive and statistically significant effects on economic growth in both regimes.
The dominant economic regime identified in the study is the growth regime. Notably, with the exception of Iraq, Iran, and Saudi Arabia, the other countries analyzed have been experiencing economic growth in recent years. This observation underscores the correlation between political stability and sustained economic performance.
Conclusion:
The findings of this research emphasize the critical role of political stability in fostering a robust and resilient economic environment. A stable political climate is not only essential for social cohesion but also serves as a prerequisite for sustained economic growth and development. Policymakers are thus encouraged to invest in institutional reforms, infrastructure development, and inclusive governance frameworks that enhance citizens’ participation in decision-making processes. These measures can significantly contribute to both political stability and long-term economic prosperity in the countries under study.
Volume 0, Issue 0 (12-2024)
Abstract
Aim and Introduction
Economic and social instability, insecurity, and poor governance significantly increase transaction costs and investment risks while reducing incentives for productive economic activities. Institutional conditions and the political environment are fundamental factors influencing economic growth, as they affect the motivations of economic agents and thereby influence investment decisions, production organization, and overall economic performance. Macroeconomic instability, as an undesirable phenomenon, imposes both economic and social costs on society. Its persistence disturbs the national economic structure and diminishes household welfare by undermining financial security and increasing economic uncertainty.
Furthermore, effective economic policy-making and national development planning require a comprehensive understanding of the economy’s formal and informal sectors. The informal or underground economy includes activities outside the scope of official oversight, such as unregistered income, tax evasion, and operations beyond legal, social, and economic regulations. These activities are typically excluded from official GDP calculations but represent a significant share of economic production.
Modern definitions of economic growth encompass not only increases in GDP but also broader improvements in societal economic well-being. Notably, economic production occurs in both formal and informal sectors; thus, a thorough analysis of both is essential for developing effective and inclusive growth strategies. This study aims to evaluate the influence of political and economic risk, instability, and governance quality on both sectors of Iran’s economy over the period 1370–1401 (1991–2022). To achieve this, relevant indices were constructed to measure risk and instability in economic, financial, and social domains, as well as Iran’s governance performance, with the goal of identifying key determinants of formal sector strengthening and informal sector reduction.
Methodology
This research employs an endogenous growth model to investigate the factors influencing economic growth in Iran. Data on the underground economy are drawn from estimates produced using the Multiple Indicators and Multiple Causes (MIMIC) model. The methodological framework combines econometric techniques, notably Principal Component Analysis (PCA) and the Autoregressive Distributed Lag (ARDL) model.
PCA is applied to construct composite indices where multiple explanatory variables are involved, particularly in capturing instability and governance indicators. ARDL is used to examine relationships among variables, given the mixed order of integration in the time series data. This dual approach enables the study to assess the impact of governance, risk, and economic instability on both the formal and informal economic sectors.
Results and Discussion
The results show that within the economic growth function, property rights and political management exert a positive influence, while economic instability and international sanctions negatively affect Iran’s economic growth. Specifically, an increase of one unit in the political management index results in a 3.0033% increase in economic growth, whereas a one-unit rise in the economic instability index leads to a 0.1935% decline in growth.
In analyzing the informal (underground) economy, the study finds that increased risk and instability, unemployment, government size, tax revenues, and sanctions all contribute to the expansion of the informal sector. Conversely, improvements in political management reduce informal economic activities. Notably, the risk and instability index shows a high impact, with a coefficient of 3.99, signifying its strong correlation with the growth of Iran’s underground economy.
Conclusion
Improved political management enhances formal economic activity while suppressing informal sector expansion. Specifically, advancements in governance indicators—such as political participation, accountability, and rule of law—help reduce the size of the underground economy and promote formal sector growth. On the other hand, economic and social instabilities, including financial market volatility, inflation, speculation, and societal insecurity, incentivize informal economic behavior, thereby undermining the formal structure of the economy.
To address these challenges, the study recommends implementing comprehensive governance and economic reforms. On the governance side, strategies should include corruption control, enhanced oversight, legal enforcement, public trust-building, and increased legitimacy of political institutions. On the economic front, stabilizing inflation, exchange rates, and market speculation—as well as improving social cohesion through targeted policies—can mitigate the growth of informal economic activities. A balanced, multi-pronged approach will foster sustainable economic development and enhance the resilience of Iran’s formal economy.
Economic and social instability, insecurity, and poor governance significantly increase transaction costs and investment risks while reducing incentives for productive economic activities. Institutional conditions and the political environment are fundamental factors influencing economic growth, as they affect the motivations of economic agents and thereby influence investment decisions, production organization, and overall economic performance. Macroeconomic instability, as an undesirable phenomenon, imposes both economic and social costs on society. Its persistence disturbs the national economic structure and diminishes household welfare by undermining financial security and increasing economic uncertainty.
Furthermore, effective economic policy-making and national development planning require a comprehensive understanding of the economy’s formal and informal sectors. The informal or underground economy includes activities outside the scope of official oversight, such as unregistered income, tax evasion, and operations beyond legal, social, and economic regulations. These activities are typically excluded from official GDP calculations but represent a significant share of economic production.
Modern definitions of economic growth encompass not only increases in GDP but also broader improvements in societal economic well-being. Notably, economic production occurs in both formal and informal sectors; thus, a thorough analysis of both is essential for developing effective and inclusive growth strategies. This study aims to evaluate the influence of political and economic risk, instability, and governance quality on both sectors of Iran’s economy over the period 1370–1401 (1991–2022). To achieve this, relevant indices were constructed to measure risk and instability in economic, financial, and social domains, as well as Iran’s governance performance, with the goal of identifying key determinants of formal sector strengthening and informal sector reduction.
Methodology
This research employs an endogenous growth model to investigate the factors influencing economic growth in Iran. Data on the underground economy are drawn from estimates produced using the Multiple Indicators and Multiple Causes (MIMIC) model. The methodological framework combines econometric techniques, notably Principal Component Analysis (PCA) and the Autoregressive Distributed Lag (ARDL) model.
PCA is applied to construct composite indices where multiple explanatory variables are involved, particularly in capturing instability and governance indicators. ARDL is used to examine relationships among variables, given the mixed order of integration in the time series data. This dual approach enables the study to assess the impact of governance, risk, and economic instability on both the formal and informal economic sectors.
Results and Discussion
The results show that within the economic growth function, property rights and political management exert a positive influence, while economic instability and international sanctions negatively affect Iran’s economic growth. Specifically, an increase of one unit in the political management index results in a 3.0033% increase in economic growth, whereas a one-unit rise in the economic instability index leads to a 0.1935% decline in growth.
In analyzing the informal (underground) economy, the study finds that increased risk and instability, unemployment, government size, tax revenues, and sanctions all contribute to the expansion of the informal sector. Conversely, improvements in political management reduce informal economic activities. Notably, the risk and instability index shows a high impact, with a coefficient of 3.99, signifying its strong correlation with the growth of Iran’s underground economy.
Conclusion
Improved political management enhances formal economic activity while suppressing informal sector expansion. Specifically, advancements in governance indicators—such as political participation, accountability, and rule of law—help reduce the size of the underground economy and promote formal sector growth. On the other hand, economic and social instabilities, including financial market volatility, inflation, speculation, and societal insecurity, incentivize informal economic behavior, thereby undermining the formal structure of the economy.
To address these challenges, the study recommends implementing comprehensive governance and economic reforms. On the governance side, strategies should include corruption control, enhanced oversight, legal enforcement, public trust-building, and increased legitimacy of political institutions. On the economic front, stabilizing inflation, exchange rates, and market speculation—as well as improving social cohesion through targeted policies—can mitigate the growth of informal economic activities. A balanced, multi-pronged approach will foster sustainable economic development and enhance the resilience of Iran’s formal economy.
Volume 1, Issue 1 (3-2013)
Abstract
Aims: Evaluation of Patient Satisfaction (PS) is one of the most essential factors in improving the quality of healthcare systems. The aim of this study is to determine the norms and to evaluate the validity and reliability of the Najmiyeh Outpatients Satisfaction Questionnaire (NOSQ). Methods and Materials: This study has been conducted on 240 outpatients in Najmiyeh subspecialty hospital (Tehran-Iran) in 2011. They were selected using the proportional simple random sampling method. Following the confirmation of the content validity, we considered the construct validity and reliability applying Confirmatory Factor Analysis (CFA) and Explanatory Factor Analysis (EFA) and Cronbach's Alpha. Also, SPSS and AMOS version 18 were used for data analysis. Findings: The sample population consisted of 240 subjects, including 132 females (55.1%) and 108 males (44.9%). The EFA reported three important factors in this regard, with a variance of 54% and Kaiser-Meyer-Olkin index of 0.82, all approved by the CFA (RMSEA= 0.04, CFI= 0.96). The outpatients' satisfaction factors were: “hospital information system, treatment and conditions”. The reliability of the questionnaire was reported at %71 based on the Cronbach's alpha. Conclusions: Both validity and the reliability indexes of the NOSQ have been reported at a desirable level; therefore it can be used as a valid and reliable instrument to measure the outpatients' satisfaction.
Volume 1, Issue 1 (3-2013)
Abstract
Study area is located in West of Iran with relatively rough topography. Lithologic units in the region belong from Jurassic and Cretaccous till recent era. The study area of the Alvand mountain region is related to the tectonic zone of the Sanandaj-Sirjan region and the area dominant neo-tectonic regime appears to be compressional-extensional type. One of the identification tools to find out the existence of recent neotectonic activities is tectonic geomorphology evaluation. In this study, we tried to measure the required parameters using topographic maps with scales of 1:50000 utilizing AutoCAD software. In order to identifying the morphologic landform anomalies we use asymmetry factor, transverse topographic symmetry factor and mountain-front sinuosity index. The neotectonic activity of the study area investigated by considering geologic, seismic and remote sensing evidences and with establishing relationship between these evidences and morphologic landforms. Results indicated that tilting occurred around NW-SE axis. There is a remarkable correlation between active mountain front, fault and cleavage identified (from satellite images) and position of earthquake epicenters of study area. Hence all of these evidence indicating the activity of the study area from neotectonic and instability of sub watersheds point of view.
Volume 1, Issue 1 (10-2011)
Abstract
Considering the vast changes in different aspects of life and various ways of earning livelihood, flexibility in contemporary housing design can be regarded as an appropriate solution in order to prevent from discreteness in interactions within the society and environment and among people. That is because a residence must be designed according to the changing needs of modern human. Traditional houses in Iran have already contained this concept, in modern era however, such viewpoint towards housing cannot be seen so often. Flexibility refers to the idea of adaptation throughout the time. Therefore it can be said that a flexible settlement is a house that can be adapted with the needs of the users and will lead to understanding the users’ expected demands with their own cooperation. Peoples’ cooperation in this process will increase the possibility of adaptation of housing with their needs which will eventually increase the general satisfaction of the housing. This research discusses the issue of flexibility and the related concepts in the field of housing with emphasis on some residential projects. Every settlement is depended on its user and the ground for its adaptation. Therefore, in terms of general design, we can say that settlement is dependent on both the environment and the user. Since human beings normally demand variety and monotonous environmental conditions make human beings unsatisfied and bored; they usually have a favorable and positive view towards changes in their living environment. These varieties can range from some minor changes up to basic ones such as a change in the residential house itself. Flexibility in architectural design indicates variety. Such variety includes the possibility of adjustment and compatibility of a residential unit throughout time. It will eventually lead the building to show new varieties of its own. In order to demonstrate flexibility, the architects have to put the probable needs of the users into consideration in the process of designing. In other words, a “long-term thought” is required in designing.Flexibility in housing can be investigated from two points of views: first, from users’ point of view and secondly the innovative construction. Designing consists of four main issues: (1) structural system; (2) servicing spaces; (3) architectural design; and (4) facilities for environmental flexibility. The present study tries to express the concept of flexibility as a “new form of challenging architecture”. This is done using some examples and instances. From such viewpoint, the goal this study tries to attain is to survey the limitations and boundaries of flexible designing. This is done by analyzing the selected items. This way, the architect can turn flexibility into an opportunity and produce creative options in his/her work and design. The present study was conducted using library-based method and case study with the aim of studying and discussing the conceptual and operational grounds of housing design in different countries. The structure and main framework of the present study stands on the idea that flexibility can be used for housing development in all eras and periods as a general concept and includes different types itself.
Volume 1, Issue 1 (2-2016)
Abstract
Background: Although Chronic Low Back Pain (CLBP) rarely threatens the humans’ lives, those individuals suffering from such pain experience a variety of health-related problems and difficulties such as physical disability. This study aimed to determine the relationship between low back pain and physical disability among nurses working in Pastor Hospital of Bam, Kerman, Iran.
Material and Methods: This cross sectional study was conducted among nurses and paramedics who suffering from chronic low back pain and working in Pastor Hospital in Agu, 2015. Through randomly sampling, 120 eligible individuals were recruited of which 104 individuals were satisfied to enter to the study. The standard tools of Owsestry Disability Index (ODI) and Visual Analog Scale (Vas) as well as demographic questionnaire were used to collect data. The SPSS software, version 18 was used to analyze the data.
Results: In all, 104 participants with mean age of 34.7 ± 8.9 were assessed. The majority of the participants (N = 90, 86.5%) were female. There were significant association between functional disability and low back pain intensity (P < 0.001). Furthermore, Pearson correlation showed that there were significant positive relationship between duration of back pain and disability (P < 0.001).
Conclusion: The results of this study showed that the chronic low back pains among nurses were related to their disability. Therefore, it seems to improving low back pain among this target group can be an effective step to improve their physical function in their workplaces.
Volume 1, Issue 1 (2-2016)
Abstract
Background: Low back pain is the most common cause of disability and absence from work among young and middle-aged people. As there is limited knowledge regarding this problem among Iranian students, this study aimed to determine the prevalence of low back pain and its ‘related socio demographic factors among students of Islamic Azad University, Tehran, Iran. Material and Methods: This is a cross-sectional study in which 200 students of Islamic Azad University were selected purposively. Demographic questionnaire and Ronald-Morris Disability Scale were used to collect data regarding characteristics and disability caused by back pain. Data were entered SPSS16 and analyzed through descriptive and analytic statistics. Results: In total, 190 students including 78 (41%) men and 112 (59%) women were assessed. Of all studied students 113 individuals 65.9% were suffering from low back pain and 91 students
(47.8%) were suffering from pain related disability. Body mass index (BMI) was normal in most participants. There was significant negative relationship between low back pain and physical activity (P = 0.006). Conclusion: To sum up, the results of this study verified a significant relationship among low back pain and disability. Moreover, the students who were more active and were living in good socio-economic status were less probably to suffer from low back pain and disability.
Volume 1, Issue 1 (6-2020)
Abstract
The item of livability is one of the closest concepts to the quality of life that through it an ideal environmental society can be estimated. Therefore, any increasing or decreasing in the amount of livability is a means to evaluate staying inhabitants in the neighborhoods, regions, and cities. Also, it is a measurement for estimating the quality of life. While the city is developing, at the same time, all its traditional, new and periphery neighborhoods are facing to variety of physical, cultural, etc changes. So, due to existence of some challenging issues and necessity of livability to inhabitants, this needs to be assessed. In this study, three different neighborhoods including Haji, Etemadieh, and Mazdaghineh are investigated. It is interesting that all of them situated in 2 region municipality in Hamedan. There would be four components including physical-spatial, social-cultural, economic, and environmental items. The analytical-comparative methodology is used and in order to data analyzing and final evaluations, SPSS 19 and Expert Choice 10 technique is implemented and finally AHP method is used. To gather data observing, completion questionaires by residetial neighborhood and interviews with experts are used. Final results exhibited that the amount of livability in the neighborhood of Etemadieh is the most, nearly 0.431 points, and Haji and Mazdaghineh respectively are the second and the third livability neighborhoods with 0.322 and 0.246 points. The physical and economic components in Haji neighborhood are more favorable than other neighborhoods, but the social component in Mazdaqineh neighborhood is superior to the other two neighborhoods. The Etemadiyeh neighborhood is also a priority in the environmental component over other neighborhoods.
Volume 1, Issue 2 (6-2013)
Abstract
Aim: Tobacco use is one of the major causes of death worldwide and the most preventable risk factor of the coronary heart disease. The purpose of this study was to determine attitudes, risk perception and perceived vulnerability toward to water pipe (WP) smoking among male students in Zarandieh city of Iran. Methods: This cross-sectional descriptive study was carried out on 400 male adolescents in 2011-2012. A multiple-stage sampling protocol was used. The participants completed a self-report questionnaire about demographics, knowledge, attitude and beliefs about WP smoking and their tobacco use background. Data were analyzed by SPSS16. Findings: The prevalence of WP smoking was 72 (18%). Also 50% of participants believed water pipe smoking is less harmful compared to cigarettes. The mean score of knowledge, attitude, and risk perception for non smokers was higher from smokers (knowledge 4.9±2.1, attitude 19.5±4.3 and risk perception 18.6±3.3 versus 3.4±1.5, 15.6±5.5 and 15.4±4.3 respectively), whereas smokers reported a fairly high level of perceived stress and depression (perceived vulnerability). Conclusion: Noticing the side effects of tobacco use and the high prevalence of incorrect perceived WP smoking beliefs among students, provision of educational programs for the correction of the beliefs of students regarding WP smoking is recommended.
Volume 1, Issue 2 (6-2013)
Abstract
Aim: Patients' satisfaction (PS) is a dominant concept in medical care, due to the gap in the literature on Persian version of PS instruments, this study has conducted with aim to analyze the validity and reliability of self-designed Najmiyeh Inpatient Satisfaction Questionnaire (NISQ). Methods: This study was carried out on 247 inpatients that came in Najmiyeh subspecialty hospital in Tehran (the capital city of Iran) during year 2011 who were selected by proportional stratified sampling method. Statistical analysis used: In this study, after checking content validity we used confirmatory and explanatory factor analysis and Cronbach's Alpha in order to examine construct validity and reliability, respectively. SPSS (version18) and AMOS (version 20) programmer were used to analyze data. Findings: Samples consisted of 247 subjects (222 women (90%) and 25 men (10%)). The explanatory factor analysis showed 5 factors with 64% total variance and 0.91 Kaser-Meyer-Olkin Index, the result also confirmed with confirmatory factor analysis (PNFI=0.71, RMR=0.03, PCFI=0.76). Extracted factors consisted of: “satisfaction from nursing services and their behaviour”, “satisfaction from one’s doctor”, “satisfaction from inpatient department”, “companions’ satisfaction”, “satisfaction from one’s room”. Also the questionnaire’s reliability was 0.96 using the Cronbach's Alpha method. Conclusions: Because validity and reliability indexes of NISQ were reported in suitable range, we can confirm that this questionnaire is a valid and reliable tool for measuring inpatient satisfaction.
Volume 1, Issue 2 (6-2016)
Abstract
Background: The aim of this study was to evaluate the level of disability and pain intensity among two groups of governmental employees and sellers who suffering from chronic low back pain.
Material and Methods: This descriptive–analytic study was performed from Dec 2015 to Mar 2016among employed staff members of education ministry (N = 50) and 40 sellers with chronic low back pain who were selected through non-random sampling method. The research tool was Oswetry inventory to inspect the pain intensity and level of disability of the participants. Statistical descriptive/analytic method was used to analyze data through SPSS V16.
Results: Totally, 90 participants included 50 employees with an average age of 45.14 ± .85 years and 40 sellers with an average age of 45.42 ± 0.98 years took part in this study. The variables as age, weight, height were the same in the two groups (P > 0.05). There were significant difference between the two groups in terms of BMI2.01 (3.42-.59), pain: 0.55 (0.18-0.92), lifting disability: 0.77 (0.28 to 1.25), walking 1.03 (0.56 to 1.49), sleeping-0.26 (-0.51 -0.002), sexuality 2.07 (1.32 to 2.82), social life. 0.43 (-0.82 -. 03), mean total score of functional disability in performing activities 4.35 (1.93 to 6.77) which were better in the employed group rather than the other group.
Conclusion: This study showed the functional disability and related effective factors were different between employees and sellers. Therefore, categorizing individuals who suffering from back pain into homogeneous groups and investigating the effective factors of disability in each group of people are recommended.
Volume 1, Issue 2 (3-2018)
Abstract
Dispersion type of layered clay plated in aqueous media creates different structures and affects the final properties of its suspension. On the other hand, the presence of different electrolytes in some industrial applications affects the stability of clay suspensions. Considering the application of clay nanoparticles in various industries and the importance of this subject, in this research, the effect of preparation method, nanoparticle concentration, type and ionic strength of electrolytic medium and time elapsed on the stability behavior of laponite nanoparticles suspensions were studied. The results showed that preparing of the suspensions indirectly, results in more stable samples. It was observed that with increasing of sodium chloride concentration, the repulsion between the clay plates decreased and the phase separation and instability of the suspensions increased at higher NaCl concentrations. Furthermore, it was seen that in all electrolyte media, gel-like structure develop with increasing of nanoparticle concentration. In presence of bi-valance CaCl2 salt, most of suspensions were unstable and have two phases and increasing of this salt concentration had not significant effect on their stability. In electrolyte media containing mono- and bi- valance salts (studied in this research), concentration of calcium cation determines the type of stability behavior of laponite nanoparticles suspensions.
Volume 1, Issue 2 (7-2023)
Abstract
Pollution caused by tailing dam is one of the most important mining industry issues which creates many environmental problems. Among these, heavy metals play a major role in the destruction and degradation of natural habitats and have harmful effects on human health. In first part of this paper, the effective parameters which leach heavy metals from solid waste of bauxite mine have been investigated. The leaching tank test results indicated that among heavy elements vanadium has the highest concentration at pH of 2, temperature of 60°C, residence time of 8 hours, and the ratio of solid phase to liquid phase of approximately 1. The column leaching tests showed that the increase of the input from 0.4 to 0.9 cc at pH of 7, increased vanadium dissolution. Similarly, after increasing column leaching time from 3 to 30 days, the vanadium dissolution will be 2.5 times. When the pH increases from 7 to 13 caused two times dissolution.
Volume 1, Issue 3 (9-2013)
Abstract
Around 80% of the population relies on agriculture, rice being the staple food. Topography urges farmers to cultivate upland rice. The Chinese interest in rubber latex has stimulated farmers to grow rubber, although the technical knowledge regarding tree management and latex processing is poor. A study was conducted in an area in Luang Prabang province to examine the suitability of upland rice and rubber. The major objective was to make a comparison within and between three suitability evaluation methods, two of which are expert-driven whereas the third one was executed by a group of farmers. For the fuzzy model different membership values were set and weighed using the Analytic Hierarchy Process (AHP) technique. According to the Boolean classification 88% of the study area is suitable for upland rice, and 85% is suitable for rubber. The fuzzy method yielded 89% suitable for upland rice and 88% suitable for rubber. Farmers came up with 37% suitable for upland rice and 14% suitable for rubber. Comparison is made between the different methods. A reasonable agreement between farmers’ suitability maps and the expert-based methods is obtained for the upland rice than for the rubber-based land utilization type (LUT). This can be attributed to the lack of know-how on the latter.
Volume 1, Issue 3 (9-2016)
Abstract
Background: low back pain is a common health problem that has many consequences, including disability and absence from work. This study aimed to determine the prevalence of Low Back Pain among women referred to Quds clinic in Tehran, Iran. Material and Methods: This cross-sectional study was conducted on women referred to Quds clinic, in East of Tehran. A total of 100 patients were studied over a period of one month. Two questionnaires were used for this study. The first one contains general information such as age, height, weight, Body Mass Index (BMI), education level, smoking and physical activity. Also the participants were asked whether over the past two weeks had LBP or not and if yes their pain severity was measured through Visual Analogue Scale (VAS). The second questionnaire was Roland-Morris Disability Questionnaire (RDQ) that was only available to persons that expressed a report of pain over the past two weeks. Data were analyzed using SPSS. Results: 52 patients (52%) of the samples reported LBP. Also significant relationship between LBP and functional disability was shown (P < 0.05). More than 48% of patients who had LBP were physically low performance. Age, weight, body mass index, physical activity hours, number of pregnancy and parity and level of education were significantly associated with the severity of LBP (P < 0.05) whereas height, employment status and cigarette smoking were not significantly associated with LBP (P > 0.05). Conclusion: The results of this study showed individual suffering from LBP were more likely to suffer from disability.