Showing 360 results for Type of Study: Research
Nabi Omidi, Hasan Ghanbarzadeh, Mohsen Emami, Mohammadreza Omidi,
Volume 13, Issue 4 (1-2026)
Abstract
Objectives: With the increasing expansion of digital banking, cyber threats have become a significant financial and operational risk. This study aimed to develop a model grounded in macro-ergonomic principles to enhance cybersecurity resilience and reduce financial risk in the digital banking industry.
Methods: This study used a mixed-methods approach. In the qualitative phase, 15 experts were interviewed, and the data were examined using thematic analysis. In the quantitative phase, the resulting conceptual model was tested using a researcher-developed questionnaire administered to 387 bank employees. Data analysis and final model evaluation were performed using structural equation modeling (SEM) in LISREL software.
Results: The qualitative analysis identified five main themes and 32 sub-themes that formed the dimensions of the model: technical-instrumental subsystem, human-psychological, organizational-structural, environmental-supervisory factors, and cybersecurity resilience (consequence). The results of the quantitative model test showed that the model had a good fit (minimum discrepancy function by degrees of freedom divided [CMIN/DF] = 2.41, goodness of fit index [GFI] = 0.92, comparative fit index [CFI] = 0.94, root mean square error of approximation [RMSEA] = 0.061, standardized root mean square [SRMR] = 0.057). All four macro-ergonomic dimensions had a positive and significant effect on cybersecurity resilience. Among them, the "organizational-structural subsystem" with a standardized path coefficient of 0.48 had the most critical impact and was identified as the strongest predictor.
Conclusion: The sociotechnical model based on macroergonomics provides an efficient framework for analyzing and strengthening cybersecurity resilience in digital banking, thereby helping reduce financial risks. This result emphasizes the need to transition from purely technical approaches to a systemic, interactive approach among humans, technology, and organizational structures.
Roholah Hosseini , Soheila Azami,
Volume 13, Issue 4 (1-2026)
Abstract
Objectives: The UK Health and Safety Institute believes that the factors that cause occupational stress can be examined through a set of management standards, such as demand, change, support from officials, support from colleagues, communication, control, and role domains. The current study aimed to investigate the seven domains that cause occupational stress and their relationship with the occupational performance of Health Deputy Staff of Medical Sciences in Saveh, Iran, during the COVID-19 pandemic.
Methods: This was an applied and cross-sectional study. The census method was used in the present study. The study sample consisted of 316 individuals selected from the Health Deputy staff of Saveh University of Medical Sciences, Saveh, Iran, in 2022. To investigate the management of occupational stress and the staff performance, the standard questionnaires for occupational stress assessment (HSE) and the Patterson performance assessment were used. Data were analyzed using SPSS software (version 26).
Results: The results of this study showed that with the increase in the total score of occupational stress as well as the domains of role, demand and changes, the total score of staff's occupational performance increased significantly (P < 0.001), while this relationship for the variables of the communication domain (P = 0.06), the support of officials (P = 0.82), the support of colleagues (P = 0.28) and control (P = 0.18) were not significant. After adjusting for the confounding effects of seven domains on job performance, the role variable had the most significant impact on changes in staff's performance scores (P < 0.001).
Conclusion: The demand domain score suggests that high work pressure and longer working hours significantly impact staff stress. Therefore, it is recommended that the workload and schedule be adjusted to the capacity, working conditions, and staff's abilities through an organizational planning review.
Farzin Emamifar, Simindokht Kalani,
Volume 13, Issue 4 (1-2026)
Abstract
Objectives: The rapid integration of artificial intelligence (AI) in workplace environments has transformed job structures, automated tasks, and altered employees' work experiences. This study aimed to examine the relationship between employees' attitudes toward AI and occupational depression, with the mediating roles of perceived job insecurity and perceived job fit.
Methods: In this descriptive–correlational study, 261 employees of the Telecommunication Company of Kerman Province, Iran, were selected using convenience sampling and completed the Schepman & Rodwav (2020) Attitudes Toward Artificial Intelligence Scale, Nassasira (2020) Job Insecurity Questionnaire, Shafi Abadi and Rezaei (1997) Occupational Self-Concept Questionnaire, and Bianchi and Schonfeld (2020) Occupational Depression Inventory. The conceptual model was tested using partial least squares structural equation modeling.
Results: Positive attitudes toward AI were associated with a significant reduction in occupational depression (b = -0.12, P = 0.038), decreased job insecurity (b = -0.501, P < 0.001), and increased job fit (b = 0.471, P < 0.001). Job insecurity showed a positive relationship with occupational depression (b = 0.417, P < 0.001), whereas job fit showed a negative relationship (b = -0.243, P < 0.001). Job insecurity (b = -0.209, P < 0.001) and job fit (b = -0.114, P = 0.002) mediated the relationship between attitudes toward AI and occupational depression.
Conclusion: A positive attitude toward AI reduces occupational depression by decreasing job insecurity and increasing job fit. These findings highlight the importance of fostering positive attitudes toward AI through training, role redesign, and transparent communication within organizations to strengthen employees' psychological security and perceived job fit.
Leila Rastgoo, Aysal Allahyari, Teimour Allahyari,
Volume 13, Issue 4 (1-2026)
Abstract
Objectives: In the dental profession, hands play a fundamental role in performing precise, fine movements and controlling specialized instruments. Hand anthropometric dimensions, grip strength, and manual dexterity are key factors in designing appropriate ergonomic tools. Given the physiological and anatomical differences between the two sexes, this study aimed to investigate sex differences in hand anthropometric dimensions, grip strength, and manual dexterity among dental students.
Methods: A cross-sectional descriptive-analytical study was conducted on 100 dental students (51 females and 49 males) at Urmia University of Medical Sciences, Urmia, Iran. Hand anthropometric dimensions were measured using a digital caliper, maximum grip strength was assessed using a Jamar dynamometer, pinch grip strength was measured using a SAEHAN pinch gauge, and manual dexterity was evaluated using the Roeder test. Data were analyzed using SPSS software 24 and the independent t-test.
Results: The mean height and weight of male participants were 177.6 ± 4.52 cm and 77.8 ± 10.92 kg, respectively, while those of female participants were 162.5 ± 5.32 cm and 63.1 ± 8.12 kg, respectively. Most hand anthropometric dimensions (finger length, width, and circumference) were significantly greater in males than in females (P < 0.001). The mean maximum grip strength was 45.2 ± 8.3 kg in males and 26.8 ± 6.1 kg in females (P < 0.001). Significant differences were also observed between the two types of pinch grip strength (P < 0.01). Although the mean manual dexterity score was slightly higher in females (23.4 ± 3.2) than in males (22.6 ± 3.8), this difference was not significant (P > 0.05).
Conclusion: The findings demonstrated significant sex differences in hand anthropometric dimensions and grip strength; however, no significant difference was observed in manual dexterity between the two sexs. These results emphasize the need to design dental instruments tailored to the anthropometric characteristics of each sex to reduce the risk of musculoskeletal disorders.
Shafe Abbasi, Roghaye Lotfi Esfahanjegh, Farideh Babakhani,
Volume 13, Issue 4 (1-2026)
Abstract
Objectives: Barefoot shoes are recognized as a product for managing musculoskeletal disorders, and prolonged use of inappropriate shoes can have negative health consequences. Despite the growing use of these shoes in Iran, there is limited evidence regarding the associated clinical and practical challenges. Examining the experiences of vendors can help identify barriers to the supply and use of this product, providing practical data to improve prescription practices, consumer education, and the quality of clinical care.
Methods: This qualitative, ergonomics-focused study examined the challenges and opportunities of using barefoot shoes in Iran from the vendors' perspective. Data were collected using a modified Anderson questionnaire, validated by three orthotics and prosthetics specialists, and completed by ten vendors. The thematic analysis of the data highlighted the needs and challenges related to barefoot shoes in the Iranian market.
Results: Athletes, individuals with normal weight, and those with forefoot deformities reported the highest satisfaction with barefoot shoes, whereas individuals with conditions, such as severe flat feet or back pain without custom insoles, faced challenges. Additionally, foot scanning and the design of personalized insoles play a crucial role in improving comfort and reducing foot pain.
Conclusion: Barefoot shoes can improve the function of foot muscles when designed and used ergonomically. However, individuals with back pain, high arches, heel spurs, corns, or various types of blisters should use them with caution because improper use may exacerbate pain and worsen clinical symptoms.
Nedasadat Jafari, Nabi Omidi, Mohammad Saraei Talab, Mohammadreza Kermani, Elham Khosravi,
Volume 13, Issue 4 (1-2026)
Abstract
Objectives: This research aimed to design and validate an integrated model for soft skills development, integrating technology-driven empowerment with cognitive ergonomics principles.
Methods: This study employed a mixed-methods approach with a sequential exploratory design. In the qualitative phase, in-depth interviews were conducted with 18 academic experts and senior bank managers selected through purposive sampling, and the data were analyzed using thematic analysis. In the quantitative phase, which employed a descriptive-survey design, the conceptual model derived from the qualitative phase was tested using a researcher-developed questionnaire on a sample of 395 employees from the headquarters and branches of Bank Refah Kargaran. Data analysis and model evaluation were performed using Structural Equation Modeling (SEM) in AMOS (version 26).
Results: The qualitative analysis led to the identification of four main themes and twenty‑eight sub‑themes, forming the model's dimensions: technology-based empowerment, cognitive ergonomics considerations, contextual and organizational factors, and integrated soft skills development. The quantitative results indicated a good model fit, with all three predictors exerting positive and significant effects on soft skills development. Among them, contextual and organizational factors had the most substantial impact (β = 0.45).
Conclusion: These findings highlight the necessity of adopting a systemic perspective that recognizes the interplay among humans, technology, and organizational structures. They demonstrate that successful employee empowerment requires simultaneous attention to technological tools and cognitive ergonomics principles.
Shayan Kafi, Nasser Koleini Mamaghani,
Volume 14, Issue 1 (3-2026)
Abstract
Background and Objectives: Flatfoot (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 research aims 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: 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 flatfoot 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 flatfoot. 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.
Zahra Toosi, Yadollah Hamidi, Mahdi Beglari, Alireza Soltanian,
Volume 14, Issue 1 (3-2026)
Abstract
Background and Objectives
According to new organizational and management theories, one of the most important elements and tasks of management is creating the necessary environment for creativity to transform the organization. It has been shown that increasing creativity and employee participation improves organizational productivity. Given the importance of governance roles in universities and the potential impact of management studies in these areas, this study aimed to assess the level of creativity among staff and its relationship with their participation in the university.
Methods
This cross-sectional study was conducted in strategic and oversight units directly affiliated with the university presidency. A standard questionnaire, including "Belcher’s Partnership" and "Randsip's Creativity", was used to collect information. Data were analyzed using SPSS16 software, and correlations were determined using t-tests, chi-square, and the Pearson correlation coefficient with a significance level of less than 0.05.
Results
The average creativity score of staff was 180.41, and the participation rate was 113.83, both representing more than 75% of the total score. The results did not indicate a direct correlation between employee creativity and their participation (r = 0.210). There was a difference in creativity between men and women, with women showing higher average creativity scores than men. Employee participation and creativity levels are significantly influenced by the nature of their work.
Conclusion
It is essential to provide a conducive environment for increased participation and creativity, particularly in governance roles where legal constraints may be present. Additionally, our analysis revealed a significant impact of gender on creativity, highlighting that women in supervisory and decision-making roles demonstrate a unique and valuable form of creativity. Therefore, leveraging the presence of women in strategic and oversight units can enhance creativity in positions that require innovative thinking.
Abbas Mohammadi, Leila Aghaei, Marzieh Sadeghian, Mohammad Sadegh Loeloe,
Volume 14, Issue 1 (3-2026)
Abstract
Background and Objectives: Office staff in health networks are exposed to adverse psychosocial factors and work-related musculoskeletal disorders (WMSDs) associated with improper working posture, which may reduce productivity. This study aimed to examine the relationships between psychosocial factors and WMSDs with productivity among administrative staff of a health network and to evaluate the effectiveness of an educational–ergonomic intervention on these outcomes.
Method: This quasi-experimental pretest–posttest study was conducted in 2024–2025 among 150 administrative employees of the Behbahan health network. Data were collected using the Copenhagen Psychosocial Questionnaire (COPSOQ III), the Hersey and Goldsmith ACHIEVE productivity questionnaire, and the Nordic Musculoskeletal Questionnaire (NMQ). Working posture was assessed using the Rapid Office Strain Assessment (ROSA) checklist in a random subsample (n=15). A three-month educational–ergonomic intervention (May–July 2025) was delivered in small groups and covered effective communication/teamwork, stress management, motivation/organizational commitment, social support, and ergonomic principles/healthy work behaviors. Data were analyzed in SPSS-26; statistical significance was set at 0.05.
Results: Overall psychosocial score was positively correlated with total productivity (r=0.633, p<0.01). WMSDs showed significant negative correlations with selected productivity dimensions (p<0.05). After the intervention, psychosocial dimensions and overall productivity improved significantly (p<0.001), with a marked increase in total productivity (2.82 to 4.03; Cohen’s d=1.51). WMSDs decreased significantly (5.36 to 4.24; p<0.001). No significant change was observed in ROSA score (p=0.640).
Conclusion: The educational–ergonomic intervention improved workplace psychosocial conditions and reduced musculoskeletal complaints, resulting in higher productivity among administrative staff in the health network. Controlled studies with longer follow-up are recommended.
Maryam Shokri, Jafar Nasir Nateri,
Volume 14, Issue 1 (3-2026)
Abstract
Background and Objective
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.
Result
Qualitative analysis identified 4 main themes: 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; 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.
Amir Ehsan Zahedi,
Volume 14, Issue 1 (3-2026)
Abstract
Background and 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 aim of the study is to investigate the role of social capital on key indicators of nurses' performance.
Methods: The study is quantitative. The time frame of the study is spring and summer 2025. The population is nurses at the University of Medical Sciences of Markazi Province, and a sample of 180 selected using a simple random method. Data analysis performed using structural equation modeling (SEM) using Smart PLS 3.0 software.
Results: Cognitive, relational, and structural dimensions of social capital have a positive effect on 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 goals, 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.
Masoumeh Seif, Kamal Ranjbar, Mahbanoo Ghaderi,
Volume 14, Issue 1 (3-2026)
Abstract
Objectives: The purpose of this 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 fear of falling.
Methods: Forty older adults (16 men and 24 women aged ≥65 years) with 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 (FES-I) were assessed before and 48 hours after the intervention in both groups. Salivary cortisol levels were also measured using the ELISA method.
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 the control group (p ≤ 0.001). Moreover, salivary cortisol levels were lower in the training group than 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
Fatemeh Hajialikhani, Fatemeh Shahbazi, Neda Mahdavi,
Volume 14, Issue 2 (6-2026)
Abstract
Background and Objective: 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 was conducted to examine the influence of hand‑tool characteristics on upper‑extremity musculoskeletal discomfort among these artisans.
Methods: In this cross-sectional analytical study, 191 artisans (70 women and 121 men) working in the fields of enameling, turquoise inlaying, miniature painting, and metal engraving were selected through random sampling. Data were collected using demographic questionnaires, the Quick version of Disabilities of the Arm, Shoulder and Hand (Quick-DASH) questionnaire, and the Comfort QH (CQH) tool comfort questionnaire. 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 estimated at 28.89 and 4.91, respectively. The highest Quick-DASH score was related to the engravers, with a mean of 30.89 and a standard deviation of 2.91. Work experience was a factor influencing 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 had the most discomfort from 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 exposed to a 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 Derisavi Jarafian, Mohsen Poursadeghiyan,
Volume 14, Issue 2 (6-2026)
Abstract
Background: Dentistry, as 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 aim of this research was 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. Samples were selected using the convenience sampling method. Data were collected using standard questionnaires, including the Nordic Musculoskeletal Questionnaire (NMQ) for musculoskeletal disorders and the World Health Organization Quality of Life (WHOQOL) questionnaire. Data analysis was performed using SPSS 26 software with Chi-square and logistic regression tests.
Results: The most commonly affected areas were the lower back (64.7%), neck (60.7%), and shoulders (52.1%). These problems had led to reduced professional activity in 28.7% of the individuals. Quality of life was at a moderate to low level, with the lowest score belonging to the environmental health domain (56.79 out of 100). A significant association was observed between lower quality of life and increased musculoskeletal complaints in some body areas (p < 0.05).
Conclusion: The results of this study indicate a very high and concerning prevalence of musculoskeletal problems and a moderate quality of life among dentists in Ardabil. Furthermore, the findings emphasize the necessity of implementing comprehensive intervention programs to improve workplace ergonomics and enhance the health and quality of life of dentists.
Fatemeh Beki, Hamid Rahimi,
Volume 14, Issue 2 (6-2026)
Abstract
Purpose: Job vitality is one of the most key psychological components in the workplace that is affected by several factors. The present study aimed to predict teachers' job vitality based on the variables of person-job fit, person-organization fit, workload, and job engagement.
Method: 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 of job engagement, job vitality, person-job fit, person-organization fit, and workload. Through Cronbach's alpha coefficient, the reliability of the person-organization fit questionnaire obtained equal to 0.72, person-job fit 0.80, workload 0.75, job engagement 0.795, and job vitality 0.84. Data analysis was performed using SPSS24 and Smart PLS software’s.
Result: 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, according to the findings, 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 with job and organization, enhancing job engagement, and reducing teachers' workload can be used as key strategies to improve motivation and vitality in the education system, and the results of this study can also be a guide for education managers to improve the work climate and enhance the psychological capabilities of teachers.
Samaneh Taheri, Karim Atashgar, Mohammadreza Zamani,
Volume 14, Issue 2 (6-2026)
Abstract
Background and 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. The aim of this study was 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 under four simulation conditions, including the designed shoe, reference ankle-foot orthosis (AFO), patient condition, and healthy control. Data analysis was performed descriptively based on the evaluation and comparison of biomechanical trend changes.
Results: The results showed that 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 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.
Abolfazl Ghahramani, Cyrus Alinia, Sahar Mirnabizadeh,
Volume 14, Issue 2 (6-2026)
Abstract
Background and Objective: Inappropriate workplace design and neglect of ergonomics and safety reduce productivity and increase organizational costs. This study aimed to investigate the relationship between safety climate and ergonomic climate with individual performance and the approximate PALY index.
Methods: This cross-sectional analytical study was conducted in 2025 with 420 employees from six food companies in Urmia, Iran. Data were collected using validated questionnaires for safety climate, ergonomic climate, 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, whereas 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 them as synergistic components. Ergonomic climate (not safety climate) is an independent predictor of individual performance, while 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 Soliemani, Armita Pak, Elahe Amouzadeh, Seyed Abolfazl Zakerian,
Volume 14, Issue 2 (6-2026)
Abstract
Background and Objectives: Occupational anxiety is a critical psychological issue in the workplace, negatively impacting employee 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 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, pay satisfaction, benefits satisfaction, promotion satisfaction, job security, 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 and is recommended to researchers and occupational health professionals for screening, identifying anxiety dimensions, and developing preventive interventions.
Somaye Zarei Fathabadi, Maryam Khosravizad, Maryam Damarchiloo, Masumeh Damatlu Abhari,
Volume 14, Issue 2 (6-2026)
Abstract
Background and Objective: Hospital environments, due to the nature of their services, are considered among the most stressful work environments, which pose a serious challenge to the mental health of employees. This study was conducted with the aim of designing and testing 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 in 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 main goal of this study was to examine the impact of living environments, analyzed using MAXQDA 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 fitting of the final model were performed using Covariance-Based Structural Equation Modeling (CB-SEM) in LISREL 8.8 software.
Results: In the qualitative phase of the study, three main themes—personality traits, psychological capital, and job stress—were identified, along with a total of 30 sub-themes. The results of the 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, while job stress (β = -0.33) had a negative and significant effect on psychological well-being (p < 0.001).
Conclusion: The results of this study emphasize the necessity of moving from approaches merely based on efficiency and performance control (tool-based management) toward human-centered approaches in healthcare human resource management.
Farzin Tahmasbipour, Nabi Omidi,
Volume 14, Issue 2 (6-2026)
Abstract
Background and Objective: 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 reduce 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 factor 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 engaged in semi-structured interviews. The data were analyzed through 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. Data were analyzed using Structural Equation Modeling (SEM) in LISREL software.
Results: The qualitative findings identified 5 main themes and 26 sub-themes. 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 showed the strongest effect (β=0.46).
Conclusion: The findings revealed that digital agility emerges from the integration of users’ cognitive capabilities, advanced information technologies, human factors, and organizational infrastructures. The proposed model provides a practical framework for enhancing digital agility and improving the success of digital transformation initiatives in organizations .
