Showing 368 results for Type of Study: Research
Maryam Shokri, Jafar Nasir Nateri,
Volume 14, Issue 1 (3-2026)
Abstract
Objectives: With the rapid expansion of smart city initiatives, municipal employees' productivity challenges have become a critical, organizational, and service delivery issue. This study aimed to design an integrated model of transformational leadership, smart city technologies, and organizational ergonomics to enhance the efficiency and performance of municipal employees in smart cities.
Methods: This mixed-methods study consisted of qualitative and quantitative phases. In the qualitative phase, in-depth interviews were conducted with 18 elite experts and senior managers, and data were analyzed using Braun and Clarke's six-phase thematic analysis (256 initial codes, 41 sub-themes, 4 main themes). In the quantitative phase, the conceptual model was tested through a researcher-developed questionnaire administered to 238 employees from Tehran Municipality District 8 (96.36% response rate). Data analysis was performed using PLS-SEM in Smart PLS 4 software with 5000 bootstrap subsamples.
Results: Qualitative analysis identified 4 main themes, namely transformational leadership, smart city technologies, organizational ergonomics, and employee efficiency/performance. Quantitative results demonstrated excellent model fit (R²=0.78, Q²=0.56, SRMR=0.051, NFI=0.95). All three dimensions had significant positive effects on efficiency. Moreover, transformational leadership exhibited the strongest effect with a path coefficient of 0.46 (t=8.47, f²=0.42), identified as the primary predictor.
Conclusion: The integrated model of transformational leadership, smart city technologies, and organizational ergonomics provides an effective framework for analyzing and enhancing municipal employees' efficiency in smart cities. This approach is expected to improve service efficiency and citizen satisfaction. The findings underscore the need to shift from purely technology-driven approaches to a systemic, human-centered perspective integrating leadership, technology, and job design.
Shayan Kafi, Nasser Koleini Mamaghani,
Volume 14, Issue 1 (3-2026)
Abstract
Objectives: Flat feet (Pes Planus) is a prevalent musculoskeletal condition that results in multi-joint pain, premature fatigue, and balance instability. Given that mass-produced footwear in Iran often lacks alignment with Iranian anatomical characteristics, this study aimed to determine the appropriate dimensions and indices for designing customized shoe lasts for Iranian men with flat feet. This approach seeks to enhance biomechanical performance and prevent excessive pressure and impact on the feet.
Methods: This applied-developmental study was conducted using a descriptive-analytical methodology. Data were collected through four primary instruments, namely a questionnaire (n=26), expert interviews, observation and analysis of existing commercial products, and anthropometric measurement of 10 users across 10 specific parameters, including footprint characteristics. The primary goal was to establish standardized dimensions for shoe last design, addressing the current lack of localized industrial standards in the domestic market.
Results: Findings indicate that public awareness regarding flat feet and its associated corrective products is low, and users are dissatisfied with existing market solutions. Clinical observations confirmed that most Iranian orthopedic centers focus primarily on insole production, with treatment centered on symptom control and pain reduction. Based on the urgent need for optimized products and the collected anthropometric data, a sole pattern and a 3D shoe last model were designed and developed.
Conclusion: The results highlight the importance of enhancing medial longitudinal arch support through specialized shoe last design, which can significantly mitigate complications associated with flat feet. The final outcome—comprising the sole pattern and the customized shoe last—demonstrates that integrating anthropometric data into engineering design environments provides a robust platform for manufacturers, ultimately leading to improved consumer satisfaction and enhanced foot health.
Masoomeh Seif, Kamal Ranjbar, Mahbanou Ghaderi,
Volume 14, Issue 1 (3-2026)
Abstract
Objectives: The purpose of the present study was to investigate the effects of combined functional exercise training on fear of falling, salivary cortisol levels, and quality of life in older adults with a fear of falling.
Methods: A total of 40 older adults (16 men and 24 women aged ≥65 years) with a fear of falling were randomly assigned to either a control group (n=20, 8M/12F) or an exercise group (n=20, 8M/12F). The exercise group participated in an 8-week combined training program consisting of resistance, balance, and flexibility exercises, while the control group maintained their usual lifestyle. Quality of life (LEIPAD questionnaire) and fear of falling (Falls Efficacy Scale International [FES-I]) were assessed before and 48 hours after the intervention in both groups. Salivary cortisol levels were also measured by the enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA).
Results: Fear of falling was significantly lower in the training group compared to the control group after the intervention (p<0.0001). The 8‑week combined exercise program resulted in a 51% reduction in fear of falling among the older adults (p<0.0001). Quality of life significantly improved in the training group compared to that in the control group (p≤0.001). Moreover, salivary cortisol levels were lower in the training group than those in the control group (p≤0.0001), while the combined exercises produced a 19.5% reduction in cortisol compared to pre-training levels (p=0.07).
Conclusion: Combined functional exercise program significantly reduced fear of falling and improved quality of life in older adults, while also inducing a downward trend in cortisol levels. Therefore, such programs can be recommended as safe and effective strategies in geriatric rehabilitation settings.
Amir Ehsan Zahedi,
Volume 14, Issue 1 (3-2026)
Abstract
Objectives: Nurses, as the largest professional group in the health system, are affected by the level of communication and sharing networks in their work environments due to their constant contact with patients and other members of the treatment team. The present study aimed to investigate the role of social capital on key indicators of nurses' performance.
Methods: The study is considered quantitative, and the time frame includes spring and summer 2025. In addition, the population involved nurses at the University of Medical Sciences in Markazi Province, Iran, and a sample of 180 was selected using a simple random method. Data analysis performed using structural equation modeling (SEM) with the Smart PLS (version 3.0) software.
Results: The cognitive, relational, and structural dimensions of social capital positively affect nurses' participation and social cohesion. The cognitive dimension has the greatest effect on social participation, with a coefficient of 0.541. Social participation and cohesion also have a positive effect on nurses' retention and satisfaction. Social participation has a greater effect on retention with a coefficient of 0.641.
Conclusion: Explaining common objectives, creating an atmosphere based on trust, mutual respect, and social support in the workplace, designing structures such as interdisciplinary work teams, and professional nursing networks can help increase social participation and cohesion among nurses and ultimately lead to increased job satisfaction and a desire to stay in the organization.
Fatemeh Hajialikhani, Fatemeh Shahbazi, Neda Mahdavi,
Volume 14, Issue 2 (6-2026)
Abstract
Objectives: Handicraft artists in Isfahan Province are at heightened risk of developing upper extremity musculoskeletal disorders due to the nature of their work, which involves repetitive movements and awkward postures. This study examined how hand tool characteristics affect upper extremity musculoskeletal discomfort among these artisans.
Methods: In this cross-sectional analytical study, 191 artisans (70 women and 121 men) working in enameling, turquoise inlaying, miniature painting, and metal engraving were selected through random sampling. Data were collected using demographic questionnaires, the Quick version of the Disabilities of the Arm, Shoulder and Hand (Quick-DASH) questionnaire, and the Comfort QH (CQH) tool. Statistical analyses were conducted using Stata (version 17), and a significance level of less than 0.05 was considered for all statistical tests.
Results: The mean and standard deviation of the Quick-DASH score were 28.89 and 4.91, respectively. The highest Quick-DASH score was observed among the engravers, with a mean of 30.89 and a standard deviation of 2.91. Work experience significantly influenced the Quick-DASH score (P = 0.003). The mean CQH questionnaire score for artists was 1.09, with a standard deviation of 0.26. Turquoise inlay workers and engravers reported discomfort with the tools, with a mean (standard deviation) of 1.04 (0.23). No significant correlation was observed between upper limb disability and tool comfort.
Conclusion: The handicraft artists of Isfahan, who routinely perform highly repetitive and fine manual tasks, are at considerable risk of developing musculoskeletal disorders. Although no statistically significant association was found between musculoskeletal disability and discomfort related to hand tools, both univariate and multivariate analyses highlighted the substantial impact of hand tool comfort on upper extremity musculoskeletal discomfort.
Ali Lotfi, Maryam Daneshvar, Mehdi Vosoughi Niri, Parvin Ahmadinezhad, Soheila Derisavy Jorfian, Mohsen Poursadeghiyan,
Volume 14, Issue 2 (6-2026)
Abstract
* Contributed equally as the corresponding authors.
Objectives: Dentistry, a profession characterized by a static nature, repetitive movements, and occupational stress, is considered a high-risk occupation for the development of musculoskeletal disorders and reduced quality of life. The present research aimed to investigate the relationship between musculoskeletal disorders and quality of life among dentists.
Methods: This descriptive-analytical cross-sectional study was conducted in 2025 on 150 practicing dentists in the city of Ardabil, Iran. The participants were selected through the convenience sampling method. Data were collected using standard questionnaires, including a demographic Information Questionnaire and the Nordic Musculoskeletal Questionnaire (NMQ) for musculoskeletal disorders and the World Health Organization Quality of Life (WHOQOL) questionnaire. Data analysis was performed using SPSS software (version 26) with Chi-square.
Results: The most commonly affected areas were the lower back (64.7%) and neck (60.7%). Reduced professional activity due to these complaints was reported by 28.7% of participants. Overall quality of life was moderate to low, with the environmental health domain showing the lowest score (56.79 out of 100). The Chi-square test showed significant associations between quality of life and musculoskeletal complaints reported over the previous 12 months in the shoulder (p=0.003), elbow (p=0.001), and upper back (p=0.001). Similar significant associations were found for complaints reported over the previous 7 days in the shoulder (p=0.005), elbow (p=0.001), upper back (p=0.001), and lower back (p=0.001).Conclusion: Findings of the present study indicate a high prevalence of musculoskeletal disorders and a moderate level of quality of life among dentists in Ardabil, Iran. Given the significant association observed, greater attention to the occupational health and working conditions of dentists appears to be necessary.
Seyedeh Sahar Mirnabizadeh, Cyrus Alinia, Abolfazl Ghahramani,
Volume 14, Issue 2 (6-2026)
Abstract
Objectives: : Inappropriate workplace design and neglect of ergonomics and safety reduce productivity and increase organizational costs. This study aimed to investigate the relationship among safety climate, ergonomic climate, individual performance, and the approximate PALY index.
Methods: This cross-sectional analytical study was conducted in 2025 among 420 employees from six food companies in Urmia, Iran. Data were collected using validated questionnaires assessing safety climate, ergonomic climate, and individual work performance, and a productivity evaluation form was employed to calculate the approximate PALY index. Data were analyzed using Mann-Whitney U, Kruskal-Wallis, Spearman's correlation, and linear regression.
Results: A strong positive correlation was found between safety climate and ergonomic climate (ρ = 0.84, p < 0.01). Safety climate showed a weak positive correlation with individual performance (ρ = 0.12, p = 0.01). Multiple linear regression revealed that ergonomic climate (β = 0.28, p < 0.001) and company of employment (β = -0.31, p < 0.001) were significant predictors of individual performance. In contrast, work experience (β = 0.87, p < 0.001) and company of employment (β = -0.08, p < 0.001) were significant predictors of the approximate PALY index.
Conclusion: The strong correlation between safety and ergonomic climate highlights their synergy. Ergonomic climate (not safety climate) is an independent predictor of individual performance, whereas work experience is the strongest predictor of the approximate PALY index. The lack of association between self-rated performance and the approximate PALY index reveals a deep perceptual gap between employee self-assessment and managerial evaluation.
Payam Khanlari, Leila Soleimani, Armita Pak, Elaheh Amuzadeh, Seyed Abolfazl Zakarian,
Volume 14, Issue 2 (6-2026)
Abstract
Objectives: Occupational anxiety is a critical psychological issue in the workplace, negatively impacting employees' mental health, job satisfaction, and productivity. This study aimed to evaluate the psychometric properties of the Persian version of the Occupational Anxiety Inventory among Iranian workers.
Methods: A cross-sectional validation study was conducted. The questionnaire was translated into Persian using the forward-backward procedure. Data were collected via online surveys using convenience sampling. Internal consistency was assessed using Cronbach's alpha and composite reliability (CR). Construct validity was examined through exploratory and confirmatory factor analyses (EFA and CFA), and convergent validity was evaluated using the average variance extracted (AVE). Criterion validity was assessed by examining correlations between occupational anxiety and general anxiety, work-related outcomes, and demographic variables.
Results: The Persian version of the Occupational Anxiety Inventory showed excellent internal consistency, with a Cronbach's alpha of 0.95. The Kaiser-Meyer-Olkin index was 0.941, and Bartlett's test was significant, supporting factor analysis. Exploratory factor analysis indicated acceptable factor loadings, and confirmatory factor analysis showed standardized loadings ranging from 0.688 to 0.878. The AVE was 0.66, and CR was 0.951, indicating good convergent validity and reliability. Occupational anxiety was positively correlated with general anxiety (r = 0.693), impaired functioning due to anxiety, sick leave, intention to quit, and history of anxiety and depression. Negative correlations were found with job satisfaction, supervisor support, and coworker support.
Conclusion: The Persian version of the Occupational Anxiety Inventory has very favorable psychometric properties. This instrument has the necessary validity and reliability to measure occupational anxiety in the Iranian employee population. It is recommended to researchers and occupational health professionals for screening, identifying anxiety dimensions, and developing preventive interventions.
Somaye Zarei Fathabadi, Maryam Khosravizad, Maryam Damorchiloo, Masoumeh Damarloo Abhari,
Volume 14, Issue 2 (6-2026)
Abstract
Objectives: Hospital environments, due to the nature of their services, are considered among the most stressful work settings, posing a serious challenge to the employees' mental health. This study aimed to design and test a structural model of psychological well-being among the clinical and administrative staff of Milad Hospital in Tehran. Given the study's focus on a specialized medical center, the results are more generalizable to similar hospital environments, and caution should be exercised when generalizing them to other sectors of the healthcare system.
Methods: This study employed a mixed-methods (sequential exploratory) approach. In the qualitative phase, using interpretive phenomenology and 16 in-depth interviews with experts, the study's main goal was to examine the impact of living environments. Data were analyzed using MAXQDA (version 2020). In the quantitative phase, based on the qualitative findings, a 30-item questionnaire was developed and distributed among 300 hospital employees. Data analysis and model fitting were performed using Covariance-Based Structural Equation Modeling (CB-SEM) in LISREL (version 8.8).
Results: In the qualitative phase of the study, three main themes—personality traits, psychological capital, and job stress—were identified, along with 30 sub-themes. Quantitative model testing indicated that the conceptual model demonstrated a good fit (χ²/df = 2.36, CFI = 0.93, RMSEA = 0.063). The findings confirmed that psychological capital (β = 0.48) and personality traits (β = 0.41) had positive and significant effects. In contrast, job stress (β = -0.33) had a negative and significant effect on psychological well-being (p < 0.001). Among these variables, psychological capital was the strongest positive predictor of psychological well-being.
Conclusion: The results of this study underscore the need to move from approaches based solely on efficiency and performance control (tool-based management) toward human-centered approaches in healthcare human resource management. This approach considers mental health, employees' lived experiences, and their psychological capital as key components in organizational decision-making and the design of workplace interventions. In this framework, strengthening psychological capital can serve as a balancing resource, reducing the negative effects of job stress and contributing to the sustainability of psychological well-being in hospital settings.
Fatemeh Beki, Hamid Rahimi,
Volume 14, Issue 2 (6-2026)
Abstract
Objectives: Job vitality is one of the most important psychological components in the workplace and is affected by several factors. The present study aimed to predict teachers' job vitality based on person-job fit, person-organization fit, workload, and job engagement.
Methods: This study is quantitative in nature and applied in purpose. The statistical population of the study consisted of teachers in schools in Ardakan City, of which 263 people were selected using convenience sampling. The data collection tools included standard questionnaires measuring job engagement, job vitality, person-job fit, person-organization fit, and workload. Based on Cronbach's alpha, the reliability of the person-organization fit questionnaire was 0.72, person-job fit 0.80, workload 0.75, job engagement 0.795, and job vitality 0.84. Data analysis was performed using SPSS (version 24) and SmartPLS software (version 3).
Results: The findings showed that all four variables of workload, person-organization fit, person-job fit, and job engagement have a significant effect on job vitality. However, job engagement (β=0.574) is the strongest positive predictor, and workload (β=-0.098) is the main factor reducing job vitality in the study population.
Conclusion: Paying attention to the fit between the person and the job and organization, enhancing job engagement, and reducing teachers' workload can serve as key strategies to improve motivation and vitality in the education system. The results of this study can also guide education managers in improving the work climate and enhancing teachers' psychological capabilities.
Samaneh Taheri, Karim Atashgar, Mohammadreza Zamani,
Volume 14, Issue 2 (6-2026)
Abstract
Objectives: Foot drop is caused by neurological disorders and traumatic injuries and can impair gait pattern and increase energy expenditure during walking. The use of appropriate rehabilitation devices plays an important role in improving patients' motor performance. This study aimed to provide the design basis for a rehabilitation shoe intended to improve selected biomechanical parameters, including toe angle, muscle torque, and step length in patients with foot drop. The findings of this study are considered preliminary design evidence, and further studies with larger sample sizes are required before moving toward product development and manufacturing.
Methods: This study was a case-based biomechanical simulation investigation. The evaluated variables included toe angle, tibialis anterior muscle torque, and step length. These variables were extracted using musculoskeletal modeling in OpenSim software and finite element analysis in ABAQUS. The obtained data were compared across four simulation conditions: the designed shoe, the reference ankle-foot orthosis, the patient condition, and the healthy control. Data analysis was performed descriptively by evaluating and comparing biomechanical trend changes.
Results: The use of the designed shoe improved toe angle during the swing phase by approximately 80% compared with the patient condition. In addition, tibialis anterior muscle torque increased by approximately 85%, and step length also improved relative to the patient's condition. These findings indicate a relative improvement in gait-related biomechanical parameters in the proposed model.
Conclusion: The proposed design improved three key biomechanical parameters, including step length, tibialis anterior muscle torque, and toe angle. Furthermore, the case-based simulation and descriptive statistical findings suggested that the proposed model has the potential to effectively control the coordinated movement of the ankle and forefoot in individuals with foot drop.
Farzin Tahmasbi Pour, Nabi Omidi,
Volume 14, Issue 2 (6-2026)
Abstract
Objectives: Digital agility has become a critical capability for modern organizations and requires effective interaction between humans and emerging information technologies. Despite substantial investments in advanced digital technologies, insufficient attention to cognitive and human factors may undermine the effectiveness of digital transformation initiatives. This study aimed to develop a structural model of human cognitive interaction with emerging information technologies to enhance organizational digital agility from a human factors engineering perspective.
Methods: A mixed-methods approach with an exploratory sequential design was employed. In the qualitative phase, 16 experts in human factors engineering, cognitive science, information technology, and digital transformation were selected through purposive sampling and participated in semi-structured interviews. The data were analyzed using thematic analysis. In the quantitative phase, the conceptual model was tested using a researcher-developed questionnaire administered to a sample of 378 participants, including managers and employees of Digikala Company. The data were analyzed using Structural Equation Modeling (SEM) in LISREL software (version 8.8).
Results: The qualitative findings identified 5 main themes and 26 sub-themes. The quantitative results indicated that the proposed model demonstrated satisfactory fit indices (χ²/df=2.36, GFI=0.92, CFI=0.95, RMSEA=0.060, and SRMR=0.055). All dimensions of the model had positive and significant effects on organizational digital agility. Among them, organizational enablers had the strongest effect (β=0.46).
Conclusion: The findings revealed that digital agility emerges from integrating users’ cognitive capabilities, advanced information technologies, human factors, and organizational infrastructures. The proposed model offers a practical framework for enhancing digital agility and improving the success of digital transformation initiatives in organizations.
Maryam Afshari, Vajihe Ramazani-Doroh, Elham Najafi, Roghayyeh Hasanzadeh,
Volume 14, Issue 3 (10-2026)
Abstract
Background and objectives: Musculoskeletal disorders (MSDs) are among the most common occupational health problems among teachers. Ergonomic interventions can play an important role in preventing and reducing these disorders; however, successful implementation of such interventions requires understanding employees’ acceptance and willingness to contribute financially. This study aimed to assess teachers’ willingness to pay (WTP) for ergonomic interventions and identify factors associated with it.
Method: This cross-sectional study was conducted among 361 teachers. Data on demographic, socioeconomic, occupational, psychosocial, and musculoskeletal health characteristics were collected using a structured questionnaire. Willingness to pay for ergonomic interventions was assessed using the contingent valuation method (CVM). Multivariable logistic regression analysis was performed to identify factors associated with WTP.
Results: Overall, 186 participants (51.5%) reported willingness to pay for ergonomic interventions. The mean WTP was 193,490 Iranian Tomans, while the median WTP was 50,000 Tomans. Bivariate analyses showed significant associations between WTP and adequate rest, sleep disorders, workplace violence, overall support, and supervisor support (P < 0.05). In the multivariable logistic regression model, managerial support was associated with more than a twofold increase in the likelihood of WTP (OR = 2.32, 95% CI: 1.41–3.82). Poor working posture (OR = 1.81, P = 0.021) and employment status (OR = 2.17, P = 0.039) were also positively associated with WTP, whereas workplace violence was negatively associated with WTP (OR = 0.57, P = 0.028). Musculoskeletal pain and activity limitation during the previous 12 months were not significantly associated with WTP.
Conclusion: Teachers’ willingness to pay for ergonomic interventions was influenced more by organizational and workplace-related factors than by individual characteristics or musculoskeletal health conditions. Strengthening managerial support and improving workplace conditions may enhance employees’ acceptance of and participation in ergonomic intervention programs.
Rasoul Hemmatjo, Hajar Ebadi Garjan,
Volume 14, Issue 3 (10-2026)
Abstract
Background and Objectives: Advances in technology have led to widespread use of visual display terminals across occupations, resulting in prolonged exposure. Scientific studies show lighting significantly influences human attention by affecting consciousness levels. This study aimed to investigate the relationship between indoor illuminance, luminance and sustained attention among administrative staff in healthcare centers in Ardabil.
Methods: This descriptive study was conducted among 98 administrative staff in healthcare centers. Illuminance levels (at the work surface and user’s eye level) and luminance (at the user’s eye level from the screen and light source) were measured at workstations using a Hagner Universal photometer model S4. Sustained attention was assessed using the Continuous Performance Test (CPT) under workplace lighting conditions. Data were analyzed with SPSS version 27 using non-parametric statistical tests and Dunn’s post-hoc test.
Results: Results revealed a positive but non-significant correlation between sustained attention and work surface illuminance (p=0.123), luminance at the user's eye level from lighting sources (p=0.335) and from the screen (p=0.7). A positive and statistically significant relationship was observed between illuminance at the user's eye level and sustained attention (p=0.029). Dunn’s post-hoc test indicated this relationship was significant between lighting levels below 100 lx and 300 to 500 lx (p<0.05). Higher levels of lighting parameters were associated with shorter reaction times in the sustained attention test, although these associations did not reach statistical significance (p>0.05).
Conclusion: According to the results, illuminance at the user's eye level has a positive and statistically significant relationship with sustained attention among administrative staff. Therefore, implementing lighting interventions in the design and arrangement of lighting sources, along with use of visual display terminals with appropriate luminance, can be considered an effective strategy to enhance sustained attention in administrative personnel.
Shiva Adib, Azade Tahernejad, Fateme Shahrebabaky, Somaye Tahernejad,
Volume 14, Issue 3 (10-2026)
Abstract
Background and Objective: Firefighting gloves are essential personal protective equipment (PPE); however, protection alone does not ensure their effectiveness. Ergonomic characteristics, including hand fit, preservation of manual dexterity and tactile sensitivity, comfort, and ease of use, can influence firefighters’ performance and safety. This study aimed to identify the ergonomic components of firefighting gloves from the users’ perspective.
Methods: This qualitative study employed conventional content analysis with an inductive approach and was conducted from February to May 2026. Twenty active-duty firefighters were purposively recruited, five of whom had additional expertise and experience in occupational safety and personal protective equipment. Sampling continued until data saturation was reached. Data were collected through 20 semi-structured interviews and 2 focus group discussions and were subsequently transcribed, coded, and analyzed. The Lincoln and Guba criteria were applied to ensure the trustworthiness of the findings.
Results: Of 839 initial codes, 394 final codes were derived and organized into five main categories and 10 subcategories: biomechanical and musculoskeletal strain, anthropometric and dimensional fit factors, physiological factors, manual and perceptual performance, and usability and compatibility. Key components included increased grip force and localized pressure, poor dimensional fit, restricted joint mobility, heat retention and sweating, skin irritation, reduced tactile sensitivity and dexterity, difficulty in donning and doffing, and incompatibility with other protective equipment.
Conclusion: The ergonomics of firefighting gloves is a multidimensional concept encompassing biomechanical, anthropometric, physiological, manual-performance, and usability dimensions. These findings may provide a basis for developing and validating objective ergonomic indicators and for considering their incorporation into future standards. Further studies using objective measurements and including female firefighters are recommended to validate the identified components.
Hamed Salmanzadeh, Arash Mirhaji Moghanjoughi,
Volume 14, Issue 3 (10-2026)
Abstract
Background and Objectives: Low back musculoskeletal disorders are among the major concerns in the construction industry and are primarily caused by biomechanical loads imposed on the lower back. Previous studies on task allocation have mainly focused on reducing maximum physical risk and, in some cases, psychological risk, while ergonomic indices have predominantly been assessed using qualitative or semi-quantitative methods. However, fairness in the distribution of risk and working time among workers has received less attention. Therefore, this study was conducted to develop a model for reducing risk and ensuring its equitable distribution, as well as the equitable distribution of working time. From a macroergonomic perspective, such a model can enhance personnel motivation and prevent tensions arising from perceived inequality in the workplace.
Methods: This cross-sectional study employed a mathematical modeling approach. Postural and force exertion data were collected from four construction workers performing nine distinct tasks. Compressive forces on the lumbar region were determined using 3DSSPP software. Subsequently, the quantitative risk associated with force intensity and exposure duration was computed using the Mainz-Dortmund Dosis Model (MDD), following which a mathematical model was formulated to facilitate the fair assignment of tasks.
Results: Implementation of the developed mixed-integer quadratic programming model revealed that, under divisible task allocation, the cumulative low-back risk and static exposure time per worker were 5,138 newton-hours(Nh) ( below the permissible threshold of 5,500) and 1.575 hours, respectively. Furthermore, the objective function's proximity to zero substantiates the equitable distribution of both risk and working time.
Conclusion: While maintaining operational constraints, the proposed model improves ergonomic equity and can be used as a decision-making tool to protect workers’ lumbar region
Helia Sareminia, Mahdi Zandieh,
Volume 14, Issue 3 (10-2026)
Abstract
Background and Objective: Rapid urbanization in Iran has increasingly alienated residents from nature, raising concerns about declining mental health. The biophilia hypothesis suggests that exposure to natural elements can restore psychological well-being. This study aimed to investigate the impact of biophilic components on happiness in residential complex residents and identify the most effective natural elements.
Methods: This descriptive-survey study employed a quantitative approach with 120 residents of the Binalood residential complex in Mashhad, selected through cluster random sampling. Data were collected using a researcher-developed questionnaire (33 items) with good reliability (Cronbach's alpha = 0.88) and content validity (CVI = 0.87). Exploratory factor analysis confirmed construct validity (KMO = 0.85). Data were analyzed using Pearson correlation, regression, and path analysis.
Results: Natural light was identified as the most effective component (40%). The exterior space generated greater satisfaction (46.7% vs. 23.3%) and happiness (50.8% vs. 20.0%) than the interior courtyard. Biophilic components explained 56% of satisfaction variance (R² = 0.56), with plants (β = 0.42), natural light (β = 0.35), and natural views (β = 0.28) as significant predictors. A strong positive correlation was found between green space use and happiness (r = 0.58). Path analysis revealed that stress reduction mediated 52% of the biophilic effect on happiness.
Conclusion: Biophilic components, particularly natural light, plants, and natural views, significantly enhance happiness and vitality through stress reduction. Revising Iranian housing design with emphasis on optimal natural lighting and developing public green spaces is essential. These findings highlight the need to integrate biophilic design principles in contemporary Iranian residential complexes.
Reza Naghdbishi, Mehrnaz Vafaeipour,
Volume 14, Issue 3 (10-2026)
Abstract
Background and Objectives: This study examined how interior architectural elements affect employee productivity in architectural design studios. As offices adapt their physical environments to support creativity and performance, understanding users' actual needs has become essential. The research assumed that interior environment quality can influence multiple productivity dimensions.
Methods: A mixed-methods approach was used within a pragmatic paradigm. In the qualitative phase, variables were identified through content analysis using MAXQDA software, leading to a researcher-developed questionnaire. Quantitative data were collected from 97 participants in architectural offices.
Results: Spearman’s correlation test revealed a positive but weak relationship between interior architecture and productivity (r = 0.208, p < 0.05). Among the variables, materials showed the strongest link with the workplace’s physical dimension (r = 0.275), while ventilation correlated most with employee motivation (r = 0.248). Overall, correlations between environmental components and productivity dimensions were weak, suggesting that individual and organizational factors may also contribute to employee productivity.
Conclusion: Overall, productivity in architectural workplaces results from interactions among interior environmental quality, individual characteristics, and organizational structures. A balanced attention to these dimensions can enhance work experience and support sustainable employee performance
Hamideh Abbasi, Amir Miguni,
Volume 14, Issue 3 (10-2026)
Abstract
Background and Objectives : The present study aimed to investigate the impact of transformational leadership on psychological well-being, with a focus on the mediating roles of job satisfaction and employees’ work engagement.
Methods : This study was applied in terms of purpose and employed a descriptive-survey research design. The statistical population consisted of 200 employees of the Central Organization of the Technical and Vocational University in Tehran. Based on Cochran’s formula, 131 employees were selected using simple random sampling. Data were collected using the questionnaire developed by Abolnaser et al. (2023). The validity of the research instrument was established through face and content validity, while its reliability was confirmed using Cronbach’s alpha coefficient. Data were analyzed using Structural Equation Modeling (SEM) through SmartPLS software.
Results : The findings indicated that transformational leadership had positive and significant effects on job satisfaction, employees’ work engagement, and psychological well-being. Moreover, job satisfaction and employees’ work engagement had positive and significant effects on psychological well-being. The results also demonstrated that both job satisfaction and employees’ work engagement significantly mediated the relationship between transformational leadership and psychological well-being.
Conclusion : Overall, the findings suggest that educational organizations can enhance employees’ psychological well-being by adopting a transformational leadership style and strengthening job satisfaction and work engagement, thereby contributing to sustainable productivity.
Kiumars Azizmalayeri, Emad Sormei,
Volume 14, Issue 3 (10-2026)
Abstract
Background and Objective: Occupational burnout is one of the major psychosocial factors affecting teachers’ occupational health and may have substantial individual and organizational consequences. This study aimed to predict occupational burnout among elementary school teachers based on psychosocial factors related to parents’ interactions with schools.
Methods: This descriptive correlational study was conducted during the 2024–2025 academic year among elementary school teachers in Borujerd, Iran. The study sample consisted of 384 teachers, determined based on the Krejcie and Morgan table. Data were collected using a researcher-developed questionnaire assessing psychosocial factors associated with the role of parents in teachers’ occupational burnout and the Maslach and Jackson Burnout Inventory. Cronbach’s alpha coefficients for the two questionnaires were 0.87 and 0.84, respectively. The content and construct validity of the researcher-developed questionnaire were also confirmed at an acceptable level. Data were analyzed using Pearson’s correlation coefficient and multiple regression analysis.
Results: Significant relationships were found between teachers’ occupational burnout and parents’ unrealistic organizational expectations, parental cooperation in educational and pedagogical activities, parents’ awareness of educational and pedagogical responsibilities, and parents’ respect for teachers’ professional status. The regression model was statistically significant, and parents’ unrealistic organizational expectations were the strongest predictor of occupational burnout, with a standardized beta coefficient of 0.63.
Conclusion: Managing parental expectations, clarifying reciprocal responsibilities, and strengthening family–school communication and collaboration may contribute to creating a supportive psychosocial environment and reducing occupational burnout among teachers.
