@article{ author = {Shekoohiyan, Sakine and Moussavi, Gholamreza and Mojab, Samira and Alahabadi, Ahm}, title = {Adsorption of the reactive azo dyes onto NH4Cl-induced activated carbon}, abstract ={Background: The efficacy of NH4Cl-induced activated carbon (NAC) was examined in order to adsorb RR198, an azo reactive model dye, from an aqueous solution. Methods: The effects of pH (3 to 10), adsorbent dose (0.1 to 1.2 g/L), dye concentration and contact time on the adsorption efficiency were investigated. Results: The results showed that the removal of dye was highest at a solution pH of 7 and a powder dose of 1.1 g/L. The 85.9%, 72.6% and 65.4% removal of RR198 was obtained for a concentration of 25, 50 and 100 mg/L, respectively, at a relatively short contact time of 30 minutes, and at optimum pH and NAC concentrations of 1 g/L. The experimental data for kinetic analysis illustrated a best fit to the pseudo-second-order model. The study data on equilibrium were modeled using Langmuir, Freundlich and Dubinin–Radushkevich models; the Langmuir equation provided the best fit for the data. Conclusion: Therefore, the NAC appears to be an efficient and appropriate adsorbent for the removal of reactive azo dyes from waste streams.  }, Keywords = {Azo dye, Adsorption, Modified activated carbon, Equilibrium, Isotherm, Kinetic}, volume = {3}, Number = {1}, pages = {1-7}, publisher = {Kerman University of Medical Sciences}, url = {http://ehemj.com/article-1-134-en.html}, eprint = {http://ehemj.com/article-1-134-en.pdf}, journal = {Environmental Health Engineering And Management Journal}, issn = {2423-3765}, eissn = {2423-4311}, year = {2016} } @article{ author = {Golzari, A’zam and Taghizadeh, Mohammad Mehdi}, title = {The role of soil layers in preventing ground water pollution with 17ß-estradiol hormone (E2)}, abstract ={Background: Estrogens include estoril (E3), estradiol and estrone (E1). These chemicals are produced in human and animal bodies as well as in synthetic chemicals (drugs). Estrogens can enter water sources in different ways. When these chemicals enter the human body through water and wastewater, they have the ability to mimic or disrupt the normal estrogen activities in humans and animals. Estrogens in wastewater are able to pass soil layers and contaminate groundwater. Therefore, in this study, the removal of the hormone 17ß-estradiol (E2) as a representative of estrogens in three types of soils was studied. The selection was chosen in respect to the importance of entering the hormone into groundwater through the soil. Methods: This study was an experimental study in which the removal of the hormone E2 from different depths of three types of soils was experimented. The soils were consisted of two different textures, the silty sandy clay and the silty sand with gravel. The hormone E2 was diluted and injected into the drilled holes. Soils were characterized in the soil mechanics laboratory. Hormone extraction from the soils was performed using a centrifuge and analyzed with the Elecsys device. The results were analyzed using the IBM SPSS version 22 software. Results: The results showed that the removal rates of hormone E2 in the three types of soils were higher than 99.5%, and the removal rate in the silty sand was more than the others. In all three soil samples, the removal rates in the first layer were high. The average injected hormone in the soil decreased from 3500 to 3112 ng/l. The results showed that the adhesion and plasticity of the soil had also affected the removal rates. Conclusion: Results showed that the soil plays a significant role in the removal of E2 hormone and this hormone was reduced or eliminated in the first layers of the soils. Thus, the risk of groundwater contamination is low.}, Keywords = {Estrogen, 17ß-estradiol hormone, Silty sandy clay, Silty sand with gravel}, volume = {3}, Number = {1}, pages = {9-14}, publisher = {Kerman University of Medical Sciences}, url = {http://ehemj.com/article-1-135-en.html}, eprint = {http://ehemj.com/article-1-135-en.pdf}, journal = {Environmental Health Engineering And Management Journal}, issn = {2423-3765}, eissn = {2423-4311}, year = {2016} } @article{ author = {Namavari, Samira and Moeinpour, Fari}, title = {Use of Aloe vera shell ash supported Ni0.5Zn0.5Fe2O4 magnetic nanoparticles for removal of Pb (II) from aqueous solutions}, abstract ={Background: Lead (Pb) is a heavy metal that is widely utilized in industries. It contaminates soil and groundwater. Its non-biodegradability, severe toxicity, carcinogenicity, ability to accumulate in nature and contaminate groundwater and surface water make this toxic heavy metal extremely dangerous to living beings and the environment. Therefore, technical and economic methods of removing Pb are of great importance. This study evaluated the efficiency of Ni0.5Zn0.5Fe2O4 magnetic nanoparticles supported by Aloe vera shell ash in removing Pb from aqueous environments. Methods: The adsorbent was characterized by several methods, including x-ray diffraction (XRD), scanning electron microscopy (SEM), and Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FT-IR). Then, the potential of Aloe vera shell ash-supported Ni0.5Zn0.5Fe2O4 magnetic nanoparticles to adsorb Pb (II) was investigated. To determine the amount of lead absorbed by this adsorbent, different pHs (2, 4, 5, and 6), adsorbent doses (0.01-0.40 g), Pb concentrations (5, 10, 20, 30, 40, 50, 60, 80, 100, 200, 300, and 600 mg/L), and exposure times (0, 5, 10, 15, 20, 30, 40, 50, and 60 minutes until reaching equilibrium) were tested using an atomic absorption spectrometer (Varian-AA240FS). Residual concentrations of Pb were read. Results: The results show that a time of 15 minutes, pH value of 9, and adsorbent dose of 0.2 g are the optimum conditions for Pb (II) removal by this adsorption process. Increasing the initial concentration of Pb (II) from 5 to 600 mg/L decreased removal efficiency from 98.8% to 73%. The experimental data fit well into the Freundlich isotherm model (R2 = 0.989). Conclusion: Ni0.5Zn0.5Fe2O4 magnetic nanoparticles supported by Aloe vera shell ash comprise a low-cost, simple, and environmentally benign procedure. The maximum monolayer adsorption capacity based on the Langmuir isotherm (R2 = 0.884) is 47.2 mg g-1. The prepared magnetic adsorbent can be well dispersed in aqueous solutions and easily separated from them with the aid of an external magnet after adsorption. The process for purifying water presented here is clean and safe. Therefore, this adsorbent is applicable to managing water pollution caused by Pb (II) ions.}, Keywords = {Adsorption, Pb (II) ions, Ni0.5Zn0.5Fe2O4, Aloe vera, Aqueous solutions}, volume = {3}, Number = {1}, pages = {15-21}, publisher = {Kerman University of Medical Sciences}, url = {http://ehemj.com/article-1-137-en.html}, eprint = {http://ehemj.com/article-1-137-en.pdf}, journal = {Environmental Health Engineering And Management Journal}, issn = {2423-3765}, eissn = {2423-4311}, year = {2016} } @article{ author = {Ahmadi, Javad and Kahforoushan, Davood and Fatehifar, Esmaeil and ZoroufchiBenis, Khaled and Nadjafi, Manouchehr}, title = {Drying of Urmia Lake: modeling of level fluctuations}, abstract ={Background: Urmia Lake, the second largest hyper-saline lake of the world, has experienced lack of water and other environmental issues in recent years. Now, there is a danger of the lake drying out, which will affect the region and its inhabitants. This study aimed to present a model which can relate the water level of the lake to effective factors. Methods: Parameters that influence water level, such as precipitation, evaporation, water behind dams, and the previous year’s water level, were considered in the modeling procedure. The proposed model, based on evolutionary polynomial regression, can be used to evaluate salt marshes produced in the region in recent years. Results: Results show that the high surface-area-to-depth ratio of Urmia Lake is most influential on its drying; however, omitting this characteristic as an inherent one, the main cause is the construction of dams on rivers in the Urmia Lake basin. Conclusion: The proposed model predicts that by 2015, the water level of Urmia Lake will fall below 1269 m, and by 2030, the lake will dry out completely.}, Keywords = {Urmia Lake, Water level, Air pollution, Health impacts}, volume = {3}, Number = {1}, pages = {23-28}, publisher = {Kerman University of Medical Sciences}, url = {http://ehemj.com/article-1-136-en.html}, eprint = {http://ehemj.com/article-1-136-en.pdf}, journal = {Environmental Health Engineering And Management Journal}, issn = {2423-3765}, eissn = {2423-4311}, year = {2016} } @article{ author = {Malakootian, Mohammad and Hatami, Behnam and Dowlatshahi, Shidwash and Rajabizadeh, Ahm}, title = {Growth and lipid accumulation in response to different cultivation temperatures in Nannochloropsis oculata for biodiesel production}, abstract ={Background: Microalgal lipid is a promising feedstock for biodiesel production. The aim of the present study was to investigate the effects of cultivation temperature on the growth and lipid accumulation properties of Nannochloropsis oculata microalgae. Methods: Nannochloropsis oculatacan grow in a wide range of temperatures (5 ~ 35°C). Late in the stationary growth phase of microalgae, biomass production and lipid accumulation were measured. The methanol-chloroform extraction method was used to extract total lipids from dried cells. The direct esterification method was used to measure fatty acids. Constituents were identified by gas chromatography. Results: The results show that the maximum specific growth rate at 20°C was 0.1569 day-1, and the maximum biomass production of microalgae at 25°C was 2.2667 g/L. The highest percentage of biomass conversion into lipid (35.71%) occurred at 30°C. Maximum lipid productivity was seen at temperatures of 15°C, 20°C, and 25°C, but the analysis of fatty acids in the three temperatures shownare maximum accumulations of triglycerides in the microalgae cells at 20°C and 25°C. Conclusion: In the cultivation of Nannochloropsis oculata, the optimal temperature range for maximum efficiency in biodiesel production from lipids is 20°C to 25°C.}, Keywords = {Freshwater microalga, Nannochloropsis oculata, Cultivation temperature, Lipid accumulation}, volume = {3}, Number = {1}, pages = {29-34}, publisher = {Kerman University of Medical Sciences}, url = {http://ehemj.com/article-1-139-en.html}, eprint = {http://ehemj.com/article-1-139-en.pdf}, journal = {Environmental Health Engineering And Management Journal}, issn = {2423-3765}, eissn = {2423-4311}, year = {2016} } @article{ author = {JaafarzadehHaghighiFard, Nemat Alah and Jorfi, Sahand and Ahmadi, Mehdi and Mirali, Samaneh and Kujlu, Raheleh}, title = {Treatment of mature landfill leachate by chemical precipitation and Fenton advanced oxidation process}, abstract ={Background: Mature landfill leachate is a complicated mixture which is resistant to biological treatment processes. The treatment of mature landfill leachate by struvite precipitation and Fenton oxidation was the main objective of the current research. Methods: Struvite with the phosphate/ammonia/magnesium molar ratio of 1/1/1.05 was considered during all experiments. Five initial pHs of 3, 4, 5, 6, and 7, four different H2O2/Fe mass ratios of 50, 100, 200, and 400, and reaction times of 20, 40, 80, 120, and 160 minutes were examined for the Fenton oxidation process. Results: A leachate sample with average chemical oxygen demand (COD), BOD5, and NH4 concentrations of 7350, 2220, and 2280 mg L-1, respectively, and a BOD5/COD ratio of 0.3 was introduced to the chemical precipitation unit. An NH4 removal efficiency of 87% was obtained at pH 8.5 for struvite precipitation. Under optimum conditions of Fenton oxidation, including pH 3, an H2O2/Fe2+ mass ratio of 200, and a reaction time of 160 min, more than 95% COD and BOD5 removal was observed. Conclusion: Struvite precipitation and Fenton oxidation are reliable and efficient alternatives for mature landfill treatment.}, Keywords = {Landfill, Leachate, Fenton oxidation, Chemical precipitation, Advanced oxidation}, volume = {3}, Number = {1}, pages = {35-40}, publisher = {Kerman University of Medical Sciences}, url = {http://ehemj.com/article-1-141-en.html}, eprint = {http://ehemj.com/article-1-141-en.pdf}, journal = {Environmental Health Engineering And Management Journal}, issn = {2423-3765}, eissn = {2423-4311}, year = {2016} } @article{ author = {Najafpoor, Ali Asghar and Dousti, Sina and JoneidiJafari, Ahmad and Hosseinzadeh, Ahm}, title = {Efficiency in phenol removal from aqueous solutions of pomegranate peel ash as a natural adsorbent}, abstract ={Background: Phenol is an organic pollutant found in industrial effluents that is very toxic to humans and the environment. This study used pomegranate peel ash as a natural absorbent to remove phenol from aqueous solutions. Methods: In this study, pomegranate peel ash in different doses was used as a new adsorbent for the removal of phenol. The effects of contact time, pH, adsorbent dose and initial phenol concentration were recorded. Then, the adsorption data was described with Langmuir and Freundlich adsorption isotherms; Excel software was used for data analysis. Results: The highest percentage of phenol adsorption was observed at pH = 7. The optimum amount of adsorbent was 0.6 g/l, and after 120 minutes, the process reached an equilibrium state. The adsorption of phenol decreased following an increase in the pH of the solution. It was also observed that contact time significantly affected the rate of phenol adsorption. The experimental data fit much better in the Freundlich (R2 = 0.9056) model than in the Langmuir (R2 = 0.8674) model. Conclusion: Pomegranate peel ash has the potential to be utilized for the cost-effective removal of phenol from aqueous solutions.}, Keywords = {Phenol removal, Pomegranate peel ash, Aqueous solution}, volume = {3}, Number = {1}, pages = {41-46}, publisher = {Kerman University of Medical Sciences}, url = {http://ehemj.com/article-1-142-en.html}, eprint = {http://ehemj.com/article-1-142-en.pdf}, journal = {Environmental Health Engineering And Management Journal}, issn = {2423-3765}, eissn = {2423-4311}, year = {2016} } @article{ author = {Babakhani, Naseh and Reyahi-Khoram, Mahdi and Sobhanardakani, Soheil}, title = {Kinetic study of heavy metal ions removal from aqueous solutions using activated pumice stone}, abstract ={Background: The presence of heavy metals in aquatic and terrestrial ecosystems causes harmful effects to living organisms in the environment. This research aimed to determine the potential of activated pumice stone (APS) as a sorbent for the removal of Cd, Cu, and Zn from wastewater. Methods: This research was conducted during 2013 on a laboratory scale. The study was performed using batch experiments with synthetic wastewater having Cd, Cu, and Zn concentrations of 10, 20, 40, and 80 mg/L. Various isotherm models, including Langmuir and Freundlich, were used to evaluate the sorption data. The influence of contact time and amount of sorbent on the removal of Cd, Cu, and Zn from wastewater was studied. All experiments were done at pH = 7 and at room temperature (20 ± 1°C). The solution pH was adjusted using 1N NaOH or 1N HCl solutions, and the pH value was determined by a pH meter. Results: The results showed that the adsorption of Cd, Cu, and Zn approaches equilibrium after about 2 hours, while the rates of removal efficiency for Cd, Cu, and Zn at equilibrium were 91.6%, 91.8%, and 82.9%, respectively. Kinetic studies showed that the sorption of Cd, Cu, and Zn onto APS were fitted to the pseudo-second order kinetic models. Conclusion: The results indicate that the APS is a good choice, because it is a low-cost and effective sorbent. The sorption capacity of APS as a sorbent was considerably affected by the initial concentration of metal ions in the solution and by contact time.}, Keywords = {Adsorption, Aqueous solution, Environment, Heavy metals, Pumice.}, volume = {3}, Number = {1}, pages = {47-53}, publisher = {Kerman University of Medical Sciences}, url = {http://ehemj.com/article-1-140-en.html}, eprint = {http://ehemj.com/article-1-140-en.pdf}, journal = {Environmental Health Engineering And Management Journal}, issn = {2423-3765}, eissn = {2423-4311}, year = {2016} } @article{ author = {Naghipour, Dariush and Shaabaninezhad, Zeinab and Amouei, Abdolim}, title = {Evaluation of heavy metal concentrations in Rutilus frisii kutum on the southern coast of the Caspian Sea (northern Iran)}, abstract ={Background: Marine products, especially fish, play an increasingly significant role in human diets and health. This research evaluated the concentrations of cadmium, lead, chromium, and nickel in liver and muscle tissues of Rutilus frisii kutum along the Caspian Sea coasts of northern Iran. Methods: Thirty samples of fishes were taken from five stations (Astara, Rezvanshahr, Anazali, Ramsar, and Tonekabon) during fishing season. An ICP-OES spectrophotometer was used to determine concentrations of the studied metals. Data was analyzed by SPSS 19 using descriptive statistical index, t test, and analysis of variance (ANOVA) test; P < 0.05 was considered significant. Results: Mean concentrations of cadmium, lead, chromium and nickel in the livers were 0.06, 1.1, 2.1 and 1.5 μg/g respectively and in the muscles were 0.05, 0.8, 1.7 and 1.1 μg/g, respectively. In liver: cadmium= 0.01-0.13; lead= 0.3-2.7; chromium = 0.9-4.5; nickel = 0.1-2.8. In muscle: cadmium = 0.01-0.08; lead = 0.2-1.5; chromium = 0.7-2.7; nickel = 0.5-1.5. Mean contents of these heavy metals were higher in the liver than in muscle. The order of heavy metal concentrations in the liver and muscle tissues were: Cr>Ni>Pb>Cd. The results showed statistically significant differences in the concentrations of these metals in liver and muscle tissues (P < 0.05), but no significant difference was observed between males and females. Conclusion: Based on calculations, the estimated permissible tolerable weekly intakes (PTWIs) of cadmium (0.042 and 0.567 mg) and lead (0.0021 and 0.027 mg) in this study are lower than the levels established by the World Health Organization (WHO) (0.455 mg for cadmium and 1.625 mg for lead).}, Keywords = {Heavy metals, Rutilus frisii kutum, Caspian Sea}, volume = {3}, Number = {2}, pages = {55-59}, publisher = {Kerman University of Medical Sciences}, doi = {10.15171/ehemj.2016.01}, url = {http://ehemj.com/article-1-149-en.html}, eprint = {http://ehemj.com/article-1-149-en.pdf}, journal = {Environmental Health Engineering And Management Journal}, issn = {2423-3765}, eissn = {2423-4311}, year = {2016} } @article{ author = {Malakootian, Mohammad and Mortazavi, Mohammad Seddiq and Ahmadi, Abdolkarim}, title = {Heavy metals bioaccumulation in fish of southern Iran and risk assessment of fish consumption}, abstract ={Background: This study purposed to assess the health risks of heavy metals including nickel (Ni), chromium (Cr), mercury (Hg), and lead (Pb) in three widely-consumed fish from the coast of Bandar Abbas (Persian Gulf) and to determine the maximum amounts allowed for consumption according to the degree of contamination. Methods: This cross-sectional study was conducted in the summer and fall of 2013. Thunnus tonggol and Liza klunzingeri were selected from the Bandar Abbas market, and Pleuronectiformes were caught from the sea. Heavy metal concentrations were determined by atomic absorption. Risk assessment and allowable consumption levels were determined according to methods provided by the US Environmental Protection Agency (USEPA). Results: The highest average levels of Ni and Cr in Thunnus tonggol were 0.059 and 0.234 (μg/g dry weight), respectively. The highest average level of Hg in Pleuronectiformes was 0.095 (μg/g dry weight), and the highest average level of Pb in Liza klunzingeri was 0.006 (μg/g dry weight). The target hazard quotient (THQ) for all analyses of metals in the studied species and the hazard index (HI) were less than 1 for all three species. Conclusion: The results showed that despite Ni, Cr, Hg, and Pb pollution, the consumption of up to 4 (kg/d) of Thunnus tonggol by adults and up to 2.2 (kg/d) by children does not cause health problems in terms of the tested heavy metals. For Liza klunzingeri, these levels are 7.32 and 4.02 (kg/d), respectively.}, Keywords = {Nickel, Chromium, Mercury, fish, Risk assessment.}, volume = {3}, Number = {2}, pages = {61-68}, publisher = {Kerman University of Medical Sciences}, doi = {10.15171/ehemj.2016.02}, url = {http://ehemj.com/article-1-155-en.html}, eprint = {http://ehemj.com/article-1-155-en.pdf}, journal = {Environmental Health Engineering And Management Journal}, issn = {2423-3765}, eissn = {2423-4311}, year = {2016} } @article{ author = {Aghapour, Ali Ahmad and Nemati, Sepideh and Mohammadi, Amir and Nourmoradi, Heshmatollah and Karimzadeh, Sim}, title = {Nitrate removal from water using alum and ferric chloride: A comparative study of alum and ferric chloride efficiency}, abstract ={Background: Nitrate is an acute and well-known hazardous contaminant, and its contamination of water sources has been a growing concern worldwide in recent years. This study evaluated the feasibility of nitrate removal from water using the traditional coagulants alum and ferric chloride with lower concentrations than those used in the conventional coagulation process. Methods: In this research, two coagulants, alum and ferric chloride, were compared for their efficiency in removing nitrate in a conventional water treatment system. The removal process was done in a batch system (jar test) to examine the effects of coagulant dosages and determine the conditions required to achieve optimum results. Results: The results revealed that ferric chloride at an initial dose rate of 4 mg/L reduced nitrate concentration from 70 mg/L to less than the World Health Organization (WHO) guideline value (50 mg/L N-NO3). However, the removal efficiency of alum was not salient to significant nitrate reduction. Conclusion: In conclusion, ferric chloride was more effective than alumin removing NO-3, even in common dosage range, and can be considered a cost-effective and worthy treatment option to remediate nitrate-polluted water. Furthermore, the removal of nitrate by coagulation can be simple and more economical than other treatment alternatives.}, Keywords = {Nitrate, Water treatment, Coagulation, Alum, Ferric chloride}, volume = {3}, Number = {2}, pages = {69-73}, publisher = {Kerman University of Medical Sciences}, doi = {10.15171/ehemj.2016.03}, url = {http://ehemj.com/article-1-146-en.html}, eprint = {http://ehemj.com/article-1-146-en.pdf}, journal = {Environmental Health Engineering And Management Journal}, issn = {2423-3765}, eissn = {2423-4311}, year = {2016} } @article{ author = {Yousefi, Zabihollah and Kazemi, Farzad and AliMohammadpour, Rez}, title = {Assessment of scale formation and corrosion of drinking water supplies in Ilam city (Iran)}, abstract ={Background: Scaling and corrosion are the two most important indexes in water quality evaluation. Pollutants are released in water due to corrosion of pipelines. The aim of this study is to assess the scale formation and corrosion of drinking water supplies in Ilam city (Iran). Methods: This research is a descriptive and cross-sectional study which is based on the 20 drinking water sources in Ilam city. Experiments were carried out in accordance with the Water and Wastewater Co. standard methods for water and wastewater experiment. The data were analyzed by using Microsoft Excel and GraphPad Prism 5. The results were compared with national and international standards. Results: The mean and standard deviation (SD) values of Ryznar, Langelier, Aggressive, Puckorius and Larson-Skold indices in year 2009 were equal to 7.833 (±0.28), -0.102 (±0.35), 11.88 (±0.34), 7.481 (±0.22) and 0.801 (±0.44), respectively, and were 7.861 (±0.28), -0.175 (±0.34), 11.84 (±0.37), 7.298(±0.32) and 0.633 (±0.47), for year 2013 respectively. The average of Langelier, Ryznar, Aggression, and Puckorius indices indicate that potable water resources in Ilam city have the tendency to be corrosive. Statistical analysis and figures carried out by GraphPad Prism version 5.04. Conclusion: The results of different indices for water resources of Ilam city revealed that water supplies of Ilam city were corrosive. Water quality control and replacement of distribution pipes in development of water network should be carried out. Moreover, water pipelines should be preserved with several modes of corrosion inhibition.}, Keywords = {Corrosion, Scale formation, Water resources, Ilam}, volume = {3}, Number = {2}, pages = {75-80}, publisher = {Kerman University of Medical Sciences}, doi = {10.15171/ehemj.2016.04}, url = {http://ehemj.com/article-1-158-en.html}, eprint = {http://ehemj.com/article-1-158-en.pdf}, journal = {Environmental Health Engineering And Management Journal}, issn = {2423-3765}, eissn = {2423-4311}, year = {2016} } @article{ author = {Khodadadi, Maryam and Mesdaghinia, Alireza and Nasseri, Simin and Ghaneian, Mohammad Taghi and Ehrampoush, Mohammad Hassan and Hadi, Mahdi}, title = {Prediction of the waste stabilization pond performance using linear multiple regression and multi-layer perceptron neural network: a case study of Birjand, Iran}, abstract ={Background: Data mining (DM) is an approach used in extracting valuable information from environmental processes. This research depicts a DM approach used in extracting some information from influent and effluent wastewater characteristic data of a waste stabilization pond (WSP) in Birjand, a city in Eastern Iran. Methods: Multiple regression (MR) and neural network (NN) models were examined using influent characteristics (pH, Biochemical oxygen demand [BOD5], temperature, chemical oxygen demand [COD], total suspended solids [TSS], total dissolved solid [TDS], electrical conductivity [EC] and turbidity) as the regression input vectors. Models were adjusted to input attributes, effluent BOD5 (BODout) and COD (CODout). The models performances were estimated by 10-fold external cross-validation. An internal 5-fold cross-validation was also used for the training data set in NN model. The models were compared using regression error characteristic (REC) plot and other statistical measures such as relative absolute error (RAE). Sensitivity analysis was also applied to extract useful knowledge from NN model. Results: NN models (with RAE = 78.71 ± 1.16 for BODout and 83.67 ± 1.35 for CODout) and MR models (with RAE = 84.40% ± 1.07 for BODout and 88.07 ± 0.80 for CODout) indicate different performances and the former was better (P < 0.05) for the prediction of both effluent BOD5 and COD parameters. For the prediction of CODout the NN model with hidden layer size (H) = 4 and decay factor = 0.75 ± 0.03 presented the best predictive results. For BODout the H and decay factor were found to be 4 and 0.73 ± 0.03, respectively. TDS was found as the most descriptive influent wastewater characteristics for the prediction of the WSP performance. The REC plots confirmed the NN model performance superiority for both BOD and COD effluent prediction. Conclusion: Modeling the performance of WSP systems using NN models along with sensitivity analysis can offer better understanding on exploring the most significant parameters for the prediction of system performance. The findings of this study could build the foundation for prospective work on the characterization of WSP operations and optimization of their performances with a view to conducting statistical approaches.}, Keywords = {Data mining, Multiple regression, Neural network, Waste stabilization pond}, volume = {3}, Number = {2}, pages = {81-89}, publisher = {Kerman University of Medical Sciences}, doi = {10.15171/ehemj.2016.05}, url = {http://ehemj.com/article-1-161-en.html}, eprint = {http://ehemj.com/article-1-161-en.pdf}, journal = {Environmental Health Engineering And Management Journal}, issn = {2423-3765}, eissn = {2423-4311}, year = {2016} } @article{ author = {Omidi, Yusef and Goudarzi, Gholamreza and MirzaHeidari, Ali and Daryanoosh, Seyed Mohamm}, title = {Health impact assessment of short-term exposure to NO2 in Kermanshah, Iran using AirQ model}, abstract ={Background: Epidemiological studies have illustrated that exposure to atmospheric nitrogen oxides (NO2/NOX) is responsible for an increased risk of acute or chronic diseases such as cancer. In this study the health risks associated with nitrogen dioxide (NO2) were assessed in the city of Kermanshah, the capital of Kermanshah province, Iran. Methods: Data on hourly NO2 levels that had been measured with the Environ tech model M200 was taken from the Kermanshah Environmental Protection Agency (KEPA). The AirQ2.2.3 model was used to quantify data based on baseline incidence (BI), relative risk (RR), and attributable proportion (AP). The number of cases of cardiovascular mortality (CM), acute myocardial infarction (MI), and hospital admissions for chronic obstructive pulmonary diseases (HACOPD) was estimated. Results: The results of the current study show that there were 33, 16, and 13 cases of CM, acute MI, and HACOPD, respectively, attributable to NO2 exposure. Furthermore, 26.85% of health impacts occurred on days when NO2 levels did not exceed 40 μg/m3. For every 10 μg/m3 increase in the NO2 level, the risk of CM, MI, and HACOPD rose about 0.2%, 0.36%, and 0.38%, respectively. Conclusion: In order to reduce the number of cases of mortality and morbidity caused by exposure to NO2, several immediate steps should be taken by the government to control emissions from various sources, particularly car exhaust, to reduce the levels of NO2 in the atmosphere.}, Keywords = {Health impact, Myocardial infarction, COPD, NO2, Kermanshah}, volume = {3}, Number = {2}, pages = {91-97}, publisher = {Kerman University of Medical Sciences}, doi = {10.15171/ehemj.2016.06}, url = {http://ehemj.com/article-1-163-en.html}, eprint = {http://ehemj.com/article-1-163-en.pdf}, journal = {Environmental Health Engineering And Management Journal}, issn = {2423-3765}, eissn = {2423-4311}, year = {2016} } @article{ author = {Tayebiyan, Aida and Mohammad, Thamer Ahm}, title = {Optimization of cascade hydropower system operation by genetic algorithm to maximize clean energy output}, abstract ={Background: Several reservoir systems have been constructed for hydropower generation around the world. Hydropower offers an economical source of electricity with reduce carbon emissions. Therefore, it is such a clean and renewable source of energy. Reservoirs that generate hydropower are typically operated with the goal of maximizing energy revenue. Yet, reservoir systems are inefficiently operated and manage according to policies determined at the construction time. It is worth noting that with little enhancement in operation of reservoir system, there could be an increase in efficiency of the scheme for many consumers. Methods: This research develops simulation-optimization models that reflect discrete hedging policy (DHP) to manage and operate hydropower reservoir system and analyse it in both single and multi-reservoir system. Accordingly, three operational models (2 single reservoir systems and 1 multi-reservoir system) were constructed and optimized by genetic algorithm (GA). Maximizing the total power generation in horizontal time is chosen as an objective function in order to improve the functional efficiency in hydropower production with consideration to operational and physical limitations. The constructed models, which is a cascade hydropower reservoirs system have been tested and evaluated in the Cameron Highland and Batang Padang in Malaysia. Results: According to the given results, usage of DHP for hydropower reservoir system operation could increase the power generation output to nearly 13% in the studied reservoir system compared to present operating policy (TNB operation). This substantial increase in power production will enhance economic development. Moreover, the given results of single and multi-reservoir systems affirmed that hedging policy could manage the single system much better than operation of the multi-reservoir system. Conclusion: It can be summarized that DHP is an efficient and feasible policy, which could be used for the operation of existing or new hydropower reservoir system.}, Keywords = {Optimization, Hedging policy, Reservoir operating rule, Genetic algorithm, Hydropower reservoir system, Clean energy.}, volume = {3}, Number = {2}, pages = {99-106}, publisher = {Kerman University of Medical Sciences}, doi = {10.15171/ehemj.2016.07}, url = {http://ehemj.com/article-1-168-en.html}, eprint = {http://ehemj.com/article-1-168-en.pdf}, journal = {Environmental Health Engineering And Management Journal}, issn = {2423-3765}, eissn = {2423-4311}, year = {2016} } @article{ author = {Golmohammadi, Sohrab and Ahmadpour, Mohammad and Mohammadi, Aliakbar and Alinejad, Azim and Mirzaei, Nezam and Ghaderpoori, Mansour and Ghaderpoori, Afshi}, title = {Removal of blue cat 41 dye from aqueous solutions with ZnO nanoparticles in combination with US and US-H2O2 advanced oxidation processes}, abstract ={Background: The purpose of the present study was to assess the efficiency of ultrasound/hydrogen peroxide processes and ultrasound/hydrogen peroxide/ZnO nanoparticles in the removal of blue cat 41 dye from aqueous solutions. Methods: ZnO nanoparticles were prepared using the hydrothermal method. Variables including pH, concentration of ZnO nanoparticles, initial dye concentration, concentration of hydrogen peroxide, and contact time were investigated. Results: H2O2 alone is not effective in dye removal. In conditions of H2O2 = 20 mg/L and US = 30 kHz, removal efficiency rates of 6.5%, 23.5%, 30%, 51.8%, and 55%, respectively, were obtained. The maximum removal efficiency rate was obtained at the nanoparticle concentration of 3 g/l. Also, removal efficiency was reduced when the initial dye concentration was increased. Conclusion: The combination of nanoparticles and US and H2O2 is very effective in removing blue cat 41 dye. As a result, photo catalytic processes can be considered to effectively remove environmental pollutants.}, Keywords = {Advanced oxidation process, Ultrasonic waves, ZnO nanoparticles, Hydrothermal, Hydrogen peroxide, Dye}, volume = {3}, Number = {2}, pages = {107-113}, publisher = {Kerman University of Medical Sciences}, doi = {10.15171/ehemj.2016.08}, url = {http://ehemj.com/article-1-171-en.html}, eprint = {http://ehemj.com/article-1-171-en.pdf}, journal = {Environmental Health Engineering And Management Journal}, issn = {2423-3765}, eissn = {2423-4311}, year = {2016} } @article{ author = {Kazemi, Farzad and Yousefi, Zabihollah and Mohammadpour, Reza Ali}, title = {Dental waste characterization in the city of Ilam in 2014}, abstract ={Background: Dental wastes are one of the environmental issues due to toxic and pathogenic agents such as pathological wastes, pharmaceutical and chemical etc have particular sensitivity. The aim of this study was to determine the dental waste management and related factors in the city of Ilam. Methods: In this cross-sectional study, the studied community was all the sixteen dental clinics in Ilam. Five samples of each clinic per week (Saturday, Sunday and Wednesday) were selected. Thereafter waste sample was manually separated into 36 components and were weighed using a laboratory scale with an accuracy of 0.01 g. Each component was weighed five times and the mean value obtained for each component was considered. Production per capita was calculated for each person. Data were analyzed using descriptive statistics, SPSS and Excel software. Results: The per capita percent for infectious waste section was 51%. The average of infectious waste is 201.13 g. The per capita percent for chemical, pharmaceutical waste section was 36% with an average of 142.48 g. The per capita percent for toxicity section was 13% in the dental clinics with the weighted average of 48.78 g. According to the results of the checklist, further dental clinics have been poorly managed. Conclusion: According to the presence of various materials and different components with different characteristics in the dental wastes, the optimal management of this type of wastes should be carried out based on the specific characteristics, which include programs to reduce waste production, segregation, recycle and reuse.}, Keywords = {Waste management, dental waste, infectious waste, toxic waste}, volume = {3}, Number = {3}, pages = {115-121}, publisher = {Kerman University of Medical Sciences}, doi = {10.15171/EHEM.2016.09}, url = {http://ehemj.com/article-1-162-en.html}, eprint = {http://ehemj.com/article-1-162-en.pdf}, journal = {Environmental Health Engineering And Management Journal}, issn = {2423-3765}, eissn = {2423-4311}, year = {2016} } @article{ author = {Suresh, Selvaraj}, title = {Biosorption of acid dyes from aqueous solution using Curcuma angustifolia scales}, abstract ={Background: The presence of even a very small quantity of dye in water bodies is undesirable and affects the water bodies. Dye removal from industrial waste water is significant; hence in this study, a material that is an economical waste product was employed to test its acid dye removing capacity from aqueous solution. Methods: In this study, batch mode experiments were performed in the sorption process of Acid Red 97 (AR 97), Acid Red 114 (AR 114) and Acid Red 151 (AR 151) onto Curcuma angustifolia scales (CS). Also, the effect of process parameters like pH and adsorbent dosage was studied. The experimental data of AR 97, AR 114 and AR 151 sorption was fitted to Langmuir, Freundlich and Temkin isotherm models. Kinetic results in AR 97, AR 114 and AR 151 sorption were fitted at various concentrations to pseudo-first order, pseudo-second order, Elovich and Intra-particle diffusion model. Results: The monolayer sorption capacity of the acid dyes was found to be AR 97 (350.87 mg/g), AR 114 (202.42 mg/g) and AR 151 (168.91 mg/g). The Pseudo-second order model proved to be the best fit for the acid dyes. Boyd plot, confirms film diffusion in all acid dye sorption processes. Conclusion: The results showed higher dye removal for acid dyes at pH 2. The isotherm data, demonstrated good sorption capacity with AR 97>AR 114>AR 151. Employing the CS material in this study proves to be a potential alternative to costlier adsorbents, utilized for the treatment of dye containing industrial waste water.}, Keywords = {Biosorption, Acid dyes, Dye removal, Isotherm, Kinetics}, volume = {3}, Number = {3}, pages = {123-129}, publisher = {Kerman University of Medical Sciences}, doi = {10.15171/EHEM.2016.10}, url = {http://ehemj.com/article-1-198-en.html}, eprint = {http://ehemj.com/article-1-198-en.pdf}, journal = {Environmental Health Engineering And Management Journal}, issn = {2423-3765}, eissn = {2423-4311}, year = {2016} } @article{ author = {RezaeiRaja, Oshin and Sobhanardakani, Soheil and Cheraghi, Mehr}, title = {Health risk assessment of citrus contaminated with heavy metals in Hamedan city, potential risk of Al and Cu}, abstract ={ Background: Fruits especially citrus species are an integral part of human diet. Contamination of foodstuffs by heavy and toxic metals via environmental pollution has become an inevitable challenge these days. Therefore, the effect of pollutants on food safety for human consumption is a global public concern. In this regards, this study was conducted for Al and Cu health risk assessment through the consumption of citrus species (orange, grapefruit, sweet lime and tangerine) in Hamedan city in 2015. Methods: After collecting and preparing 4 samples from each citrus species with acid digestion method, the concentrations of Al and Cu were determined using inductively coupled plasma optical emission spectrometry (ICP–OES) with three replications. In addition, SPSS was employed to compare the mean concentrations of metals with maximum permissible limits (MPL) of the World Health Organization (WHO). Results: The results showed that the mean concentrations of Al in citrus samples were 3.25±0.35 mg/kg and higher than WHO maximum permissible limits. The mean concentrations of Cu in citrus samples with 0.16±0.05 mg/kg are lower than WHO maximum permissible limits. Also, the computed health risk assessment revealed that there was no potential risk for children and adult by consuming the studied citrus. Conclusion: Based on the results, consumption of citrus species has no adverse effect on the consumers’ health, but as a result of the increased utilization of agricultural inputs (metal based fertilizers and pesticides, sewage sludge and wastewater) by farmers and orchardists, regular periodic monitoring of chemical pollutants content in foodstuffs are recommended for food safety.}, Keywords = {Citrus, Heavy metal toxicity, Health risk, Food safety, Hamedan}, volume = {3}, Number = {3}, pages = {131-135}, publisher = {Kerman University of Medical Sciences}, doi = {10.15171/EHEM.2016.11}, url = {http://ehemj.com/article-1-197-en.html}, eprint = {http://ehemj.com/article-1-197-en.pdf}, journal = {Environmental Health Engineering And Management Journal}, issn = {2423-3765}, eissn = {2423-4311}, year = {2016} } @article{ author = {Moradnia, Maryam and Panahifard, Masoud and Dindarlo, Kavoos and AliJamali, Hamzeh}, title = {Optimizing potassium ferrate for textile wastewater treatment by RSM}, abstract ={Background: Application of potassium ferrate is a chemical oxidation approach used for water and wastewater treatment. The aim of this study is to apply central composite design (CCD) and response surface methodology (RSM) to optimize potassium ferrate consumption in the treatment of wastewater from carpet industries. Methods: Samples in this experimental study were collected from wastewater, originating from a carpet factory. Wastewater sampling was carried out monthly for a period of two seasons. Ferrate oxidation experiments were conducted by means of a conventional jar-test apparatus. The time and speed for mixing were set with an automatic controller. Parameters of study were measured based on given methodologies in Standard method for examining water and wastewater. CCD and RSM were applied to optimize the operating variables including potassium ferrate dosage and pH. Results: Results showed that potassium ferrate concentration (A), pH (B), their interactions (AB) and quadratic effects (A2 and B2) were significant in the removal of COD, turbidity, color and TSS from carpet industries effluents. At an optimum point (COD: 160 mg/L of potassium ferrate and pH 4, turbidity: 165 mg/L of potassium ferrate and pH 4, color and TSS: pH 4.5 and 150 mg/L of potassium ferrate) removal efficiencies for COD, turbidity, color and TSS were86, 86, 87 and 89%, respectively. Conclusion: Potassium ferrate has a significant impact on pollutants decomposition and the removal of color from wastewater produced in carpet industries. This process can be employed for the pretreatment or post treatment of wastewaters containing refractory organic pollutants. CCD and RSM are suitable tools for experimental design.}, Keywords = {Advanced treatment, carpet wastewater, Statistical experiment design, Response Surface Methodology}, volume = {3}, Number = {3}, pages = {137-142}, publisher = {Kerman University of Medical Sciences}, doi = {10.15171/EHEM.2016.12}, url = {http://ehemj.com/article-1-194-en.html}, eprint = {http://ehemj.com/article-1-194-en.pdf}, journal = {Environmental Health Engineering And Management Journal}, issn = {2423-3765}, eissn = {2423-4311}, year = {2016} } @article{ author = {Talaiekhozani, Amirreza and Bahrami, Somaye and Hashemi, Seyed Mohammad Javad and Jorfi, Sah}, title = {Evaluation and analysis of gaseous emission in landfill area and estimation of its pollutants dispersion, (case of Rodan in Hormozgan, Iran)}, abstract ={ Background: The biogases are the mixture of gases produced through the microbial decomposition of organic waste which are amply observed in the landfills. The main purpose of this study was to estimate the emission rates of landfill gases such as carbon dioxide, methane and non-methane organic compounds (NMOCs) in the solid waste landfill of Rodan city in Hormozgan province. Methods: All the necessary information such as population, geographic and climate of Rodan city were collected. Solid waste analysis was then conducted. Afterward, the LandGEM software is used in this study for the purpose of estimation of total biogas, methane, carbon dioxide and NMOCs emission from Rodan’s landfill. Results: The analysis of results showed that only 24.18% of the produced waste in this city is perishable. The calculations indicate that the peak of biogas production which is equal to 420 tons per year would be achieved in the year 2019. The production rates of carbon dioxide and methane in the same year would be equal to 308 and 112 tons per year respectively. The pollutants transmittance calculations in the vicinity of the landfill revealed that the maximum pollutant concentration is within the maximum distance of 200 m. Conclusion: The results obtained in this study could be used for the purpose of design and installation of extraction or incineration equipment in the landfill of Rodan.}, Keywords = {Solid waste, Landfill, Biogas, Rodan city, LandGEM}, volume = {3}, Number = {3}, pages = {143-150}, publisher = {Kerman University of Medical Sciences}, doi = {10.15171/EHEM.2016.13}, url = {http://ehemj.com/article-1-199-en.html}, eprint = {http://ehemj.com/article-1-199-en.pdf}, journal = {Environmental Health Engineering And Management Journal}, issn = {2423-3765}, eissn = {2423-4311}, year = {2016} } @article{ author = {Shakerkhatibi*, Mohammad and Mosaferi, Mohammad and ZorufchiBenis, Khaled and Akbari, Zahr}, title = {Performance evaluation of a full-scale ABS resin manufacturing wastewater treatment plant: a case study in Tabriz Petrochemical Complex}, abstract ={ Background: The measurement data regarding the influent and effluent of wastewater treatment plant (WWTP) provides a general overview, demonstrating an overall performance of WWTP. Nevertheless, these data do not provide the suitable operational information for the optimization of individual units involved in a WWTP. A full-scale evolution of WWTP was carried out in this study via a reconciled data. Methods: A full-scale evolution of acrylonitrile, butadiene and styrene (ABS) resin manufacturing WWTP was carried out. Data reconciliation technique was employed to fulfil the mass conservation law and also enhance the accuracy of the flow measurements. Daily average values from long-term measurements by the WWTP library along with the results of four sampling runs, were utilized for data reconciliation with further performance evaluation and characterization of WWTP. Results: The full-scale evaluation, based on balanced data showed that removal efficiency based on chemical oxygen demand (COD) and biochemical oxygen demand (BOD5) through the WWTP were 80% and 90%, respectively, from which only 28% of COD and 20% of BOD5 removal had occurred in biological reactor. In addition, the removal efficiency of styrene and acrylonitrile, throughout the plant, was approximately 90%. Estimation results employing Toxchem model showed that 43% of acrylonitrile and 85% of styrene were emitted into the atmosphere above water surfaces. Conclusion: It can be concluded that the volatilization of styrene and acrylonitrile is the main mechanism for their removal along with corresponded COD elimination from the WWTP.}, Keywords = {Performance evaluation, Acrylonitrile butadiene styrene (ABS), Petrochemical, Toxchem model}, volume = {3}, Number = {3}, pages = {151-158}, publisher = {Kerman University of Medical Sciences}, doi = {10.15171/EHEM.2016.14}, url = {http://ehemj.com/article-1-193-en.html}, eprint = {http://ehemj.com/article-1-193-en.pdf}, journal = {Environmental Health Engineering And Management Journal}, issn = {2423-3765}, eissn = {2423-4311}, year = {2016} } @article{ author = {Servat, Farokh Legha and Soltani, Tahereh and Derakhshan, Zahra and Khanjani, Najmeh and Hosseini, Akram Sadat and AnbariNogyni, Zynab}, title = {A survey on epidemiology of leishmaniasis in Khatam, Iran during 2008-2012}, abstract ={ Background: Leishmaniasis is a parasitic disease, that due to the incidence, dissemination and scattering throughout different parts of Iran is of paramount importance. This study was carried out with the aim of determining the epidemiology of leishmaniasis cutaneous in Khatam during 2008-2012. Methods: This is a cross-sectional and retrospective study of collected demographic and epidemiological information, related to 760 patients with the disease who underwent treatment in health centers in Khatam during 2008-2012. This information was analyzed using SPSS version 16 software and includes the history of disease outbreak, age, sex, place of residence, number of wounds, wound placement and a history of travel to endemic areas in the past year. Results: The results showed that out of a total number of patients with cutaneous leishmaniasis 460 persons were male (60.5%) and 300 persons were female (39.5%); age mean of patients was 22 ± 1.68. The 0-9 years age group was more susceptible to the disease. The lodging for 525 subjects (69.1%) was listed as village, 224 (29.7%) of them lived in the city and 11 people (1.4%) lived on the fringes of the city. 98.8% of these patients were infected with rural cutaneous leishmaniasis. There were 428 cases of wounds on the hands (56.3%) making it the most common type. Conclusion: The rural leishmaniasis is one of the major health problems of Khatam, and given the high disease incidence in children and farmers, continuing education on the care and control of the disease in the region is of very high importance.}, Keywords = {Epidemiology, Leishmaniasis, Cutaneous, Parasitic Diseases , Khatam city, Iran}, volume = {3}, Number = {3}, pages = {159-163}, publisher = {Kerman University of Medical Sciences}, doi = {10.15171/EHEM.2016.15}, url = {http://ehemj.com/article-1-195-en.html}, eprint = {http://ehemj.com/article-1-195-en.pdf}, journal = {Environmental Health Engineering And Management Journal}, issn = {2423-3765}, eissn = {2423-4311}, year = {2016} } @article{ author = {Yari, Ahmadreza and JafariMansoorian, Hossein and Majidi, Gharib and Yazdanpanah, Ghazal and Sayfouri, Ali}, title = {Evaluation of physical and chemical quality of groundwater in the villages of Qom province and zoning them by GIS}, abstract ={ Background: The aim of this study was to evaluate the physical and chemical quality of groundwater in the villages of Qom province during summer 2014, and to compare the results with Iran’s Standard No. 1053. Methods: This research is a descriptive sectional study. During the investigation, one step sampling with the necessary repetitions (if necessary) was performed of each well for evaluation of physical and chemical quality of groundwater in the villages of Qom province. SPSS version 16 and ARCGIS software were employed for data analysis and data zoning respectively. Results: The average concentration of magnesium, sulfate and ammonia in wells water were higher than standard. The average concentration of fluoride was lower than the standard limit. pH and turbidity in all wells were within the standard limit but sulfate in 33.33%, ammonia in 13.33%, magnesium in 10.66%, sodium in 40%, calcium in 5.33%, nitrate in 17.33%, total dissolved solids (TDS) in 14.66% and electrical conductivity (EC) in 24% of wells were higher than the standard limit, and fluorine in 98.66% of wells was lower than the standard limit. The results of zoning in the villages of Qom province revealed that measured values at most wells were in the maximum amount in central and northeastern areas and minimum amount in southern and western areas. Conclusion: This study indicated that most of the physicochemical parameters such as fluoride in almost all villages, and sulfates, chloride, magnesium, sodium, calcium, nitrate, TDS and EC in some of the wells did not fall within the permissible limit.}, Keywords = {Physical and chemical quality, groundwater, Qom, zoning, GIS}, volume = {3}, Number = {3}, pages = {165-172}, publisher = {Kerman University of Medical Sciences}, doi = {10.15171/EHEM.2016.16}, url = {http://ehemj.com/article-1-196-en.html}, eprint = {http://ehemj.com/article-1-196-en.pdf}, journal = {Environmental Health Engineering And Management Journal}, issn = {2423-3765}, eissn = {2423-4311}, year = {2016} } @article{ author = {Gholami, Vahid and Sebghati, Marhemat and Yousefi, Zabihollah}, title = {Integration of artificial neural network and geographic information system applications in simulating groundwater quality}, abstract ={ Background: Although experiments on water quality are time consuming and expensive, models are often employed as supplement to simulate water quality. Artificial neural network (ANN) is an efficient tool in hydrologic studies, yet it cannot predetermine its results in the forms of maps and geo-referenced data. Methods: In this study, ANN was applied to simulate groundwater quality and geographic information system (GIS) was used as pre-processing and post-processing tool in simulating water quality in the Mazandaran Plain (Caspian southern coasts, Iran). Groundwater quality was simulated using multi-layer perceptron (MLP) network. The determination of groundwater quality index (GWQI) and the estimation of effective factors in groundwater quality were also undertaken. After modeling in ANN, the model validation was carried out. Also, the study area was divided with the pixels 1×1 km (raster format) in GIS medium. Then, the model input layers were combined and a raster layer which comprised the model inputs values and geographic coordinate was generated. Using geographic coordinate, the values of pixels (model inputs) were inputted into ANN (Neuro Solutions software). Groundwater quality was simulated using the validated optimum network in the sites without water quality experiments. In the next step, the results of ANN simulation were entered into GIS medium and groundwater quality map was generated based on the simulated results of ANN. Results: The results revealed that the integration of capabilities of ANN and GIS have high accuracy and efficiency in the simulation of groundwater quality. Conclusion: This method can be employed in an extensive area to simulate hydrologic parameters.}, Keywords = {Water quality, GWQI, MLP, Mazandaran Plain}, volume = {3}, Number = {4}, pages = {173-182}, publisher = {Kerman University of Medical Sciences}, doi = {10.15171/EHEM.2016.17}, url = {http://ehemj.com/article-1-202-en.html}, eprint = {http://ehemj.com/article-1-202-en.pdf}, journal = {Environmental Health Engineering And Management Journal}, issn = {2423-3765}, eissn = {2423-4311}, year = {2016} } @article{ author = {Sobhanardakani*, Soheil and Zandipak, Raziyeh and Taghavi, Lobat}, title = {Synthesis of 2,4-dinitrophenylhydrazine loaded sodium dodecyl sulfate-coated magnetite nanoparticles for adsorption of Hg(II) ions from an aqueous solution}, abstract ={Background: The rapid increase in agricultural and industrial development has made heavy metal pollution a serious environmental problem and public health threat; therefore, removal of heavy metals from water is important. The current study prepared DNPH@SDS@Fe3O4 nanoparticles as a novel and effective adsorbent for removal of Hg(II) ions from an aqueous solution. Methods: A selective adsorbent for Hg(II) was synthesized by coating Fe3O4 nanoparticles with sodium dodecyl sulfate which was further functionalized with 2,4-dinitrophenylhydrazine (2,4-DNPH). The synthesized nanoparticles were characterized by Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR), x-ray diffraction (XRD), scanning electron microscopy (SEM) and SEM–EDXSt. The effects of pH, dose of adsorbent and shaking time on adsorption capacity were investigated. The kinetics and equilibrium of adsorption of the metal ions were thoroughly studied. Results: SEM showed that the size of the nanoparticles was 20 to 35 nm. The maximum adsorption capacity for Hg(II) was 164.0 mg g-1 for an adsorbent dose of 0.04 g at pH 7.0, 25°C and the initial metal concentration was 25 mg L-1,which was greater than for most adsorbents previously examined for Hg(II) adsorption. Adsorption experimental data showed good correlation with the pseudo-second-order model and Langmuir isotherm model. Conclusion: The results indicated that the DNPH@SDS@Fe3O4 nanoparticles are an efficient adsorbent for removal of heavy metal from wastewater.  }, Keywords = {Adsorption, Mercury, Magnetite nanoparticles, Wastewater, Kinetics}, volume = {3}, Number = {4}, pages = {183-189}, publisher = {Kerman University of Medical Sciences}, doi = {10.15171/EHEM.2016.18}, url = {http://ehemj.com/article-1-220-en.html}, eprint = {http://ehemj.com/article-1-220-en.pdf}, journal = {Environmental Health Engineering And Management Journal}, issn = {2423-3765}, eissn = {2423-4311}, year = {2016} } @article{ author = {Talaiekhozani, Amirreza and Talaei, Mohammad Reza and Yazdan, Mehdi and Mir, Seyed Masou}, title = {Investigation of formaldehyde removal from synthetic contaminated air by using human hair}, abstract ={ Background: Human hair can be used as an inexpensive and accessible adsorbent to remove a variety of pollutants from air. Although several studies have been done on removal of formaldehyde from wastewater by human hair, to date no study has investigated using hair to remove formaldehyde from air. Therefore, the aim of this study was to remove formaldehyde from synthetic contaminated air by a reactor packed with human hair. Methods: Air contaminated with formaldehyde was introduced into a cylindrical reactor packed with human hair at the initial concentration of 8500 mg/L. Formaldehyde concentration was measured in the influent and effluent of the reactor to indicate formaldehyde removal efficiency. Other measurements of parameters effective on formaldehyde removal were taken including amount of human hair and environmental temperature. Results: Results of this study revealed that each gram of human hair was able to remove 0.13 to 0.49 g of formaldehyde from air. Human hair adsorbed 98% of formaldehyde from synthetic contaminated air under 20˚C. These results demonstrate that increased temperature had a negative effect on formaldehyde removal. Conclusion: Results of this study show that human hair can be applied as a simple and inexpensive adsorbent to remove formaldehyde from industrial air exhaust. In addition, results of these tests can be considered as a small step to promote better air quality.}, Keywords = {Formaldehyde, Human hair, Adsorption process, Air treatment}, volume = {3}, Number = {4}, pages = {191-196}, publisher = {Kerman University of Medical Sciences}, doi = {10.15171/EHEM.2016.19}, url = {http://ehemj.com/article-1-232-en.html}, eprint = {http://ehemj.com/article-1-232-en.pdf}, journal = {Environmental Health Engineering And Management Journal}, issn = {2423-3765}, eissn = {2423-4311}, year = {2016} } @article{ author = {Malakootian, Mohammad and AmiriGharghani, Maji}, title = {Investigation of type and density of bio-aerosols in air samples from educational hospital wards of Kerman city, 2014}, abstract ={Background: Bio-aerosols in the air of hospital wards have an important role in the development of infections. It is important to make quantitative and qualitative estimations of microorganisms in the air of these wards as an index for environmental hygiene applicable to different hospital wards. The aim of the study was to investigate degrees of diversity and density of bio-aerosols in the education hospitals of Kerman city. Methods: This study applied a descriptive-cross-sectional methodology in the second half of 2014 in the education hospitals of Kerman city, with bed capacity of over 300. As many as 200 samples were collected from the air in different wards of each hospital using the standard method of the National Occupational Health and Safety Institute. Following collection, samples were placed in an incubator for 48 hours and then bio-aerosol detections were made for and resulting data reported as colonies/m3. Results: Results indicated that maximum and minimum degrees of bacterial density were observed in operation rooms and in the intensive care unit (ICU) of Shafa hospital. Furthermore, comparison showed that the operating room at Afzalipour hospital had the lowest level of fungal contamination, while ICU at Bahonar hospital had the highest level of fungal contamination. The emitted fungi of Aspergillus and Penicillium along with the bacteria, staphylococci and Acinetobacter had greater frequencies. The means of bacterial density and fungal density were not equal across the studied hospitals and significant statistical, difference was observed between means of bacterial and fungal density (P ≤ 0.001). Conclusion: Amounts of bacterial and fungal density were greater than those proposed in the American Industrial Health State Conference in 73.3% of the wards in the educational hospitals of Kerman city sampled in this study. Therefore it is suggested that implementation of some, necessary measures for continuous monitoring, promotion of hygienic disinfection standards, and ventilation systems are taken more seriously by stipulating regulations to control this important issue in the country’s hospitals.  }, Keywords = {Bacteria, Fungal, Bio-aerosol, Hospital, Kerman}, volume = {3}, Number = {4}, pages = {197-202}, publisher = {Kerman University of Medical Sciences}, doi = {10.15171/EHEM.2016.20}, url = {http://ehemj.com/article-1-227-en.html}, eprint = {http://ehemj.com/article-1-227-en.pdf}, journal = {Environmental Health Engineering And Management Journal}, issn = {2423-3765}, eissn = {2423-4311}, year = {2016} } @article{ author = {Karimi, Asadollah and Fatehifar, Esmaeil and Alizadeh, Reza and Ahadzadeh, Iraj}, title = {Regeneration and treatment of sulfidic spent caustic using analytic hierarchy process}, abstract ={ Background: Sulfur compounds must be removed from petroleum because they contribute to environmental pollution. A strong alkaline solution such as caustic soda is used to remove these compounds. This spent caustic has high values for chemical oxygen demand (COD) concentration, pH and total sulfur. In this study, the regeneration and treatment methodology of sulfidic spent caustic was investigated by applying the analytic hierarchy process (AHP). Methods: The evaluation index system developed was based on group decision-improved AHP. Expert Choice software was used to simplify decision-making when choosing a practical method and prioritizing treatment of spent caustic. Cost, environmental considerations, availability and scale-up were chosen as criteria and wet air oxidation and biological and catalytic methods were selected as alternative methods. The treatment and regeneration of spent caustic was carried out in a batch bubble column reactor loaded with IVKAZ catalyst and the effluent was treated in a precipitation-stirred tank reactor. Results: Evaluation indicated that cost ranked first among criteria at 40.9%. The results showed that the proposed process produced about 13% (wt) of caustic, 50 g/L of COD and 36 g/L of S2-. Conclusion: The results indicate that the catalytic method was more effective (0.45) than wet air oxidation and the biological method. This process regenerated more than 85% of initial caustic and the economy of the process improved by the recycling of the stream of caustic.}, Keywords = {Catalytic oxidation, Wastewater treatment, Recovery, Expert Choice}, volume = {3}, Number = {4}, pages = {203-208}, publisher = {Kerman University of Medical Sciences}, doi = {10.15171/EHEM.2016.21}, url = {http://ehemj.com/article-1-228-en.html}, eprint = {http://ehemj.com/article-1-228-en.pdf}, journal = {Environmental Health Engineering And Management Journal}, issn = {2423-3765}, eissn = {2423-4311}, year = {2016} } @article{ author = {pourkhosravani, Mohse}, title = {Qualitative analysis of Orzooiyeh plain groundwater resources using GIS techniques}, abstract ={Background: Unsustainable development of human societies, especially in arid and semi-arid areas, is one of the most important environmental hazards that require preservation of groundwater resources, and permanent study of qualitative and quantitative changes through sampling. Accordingly, this research attempts to assess and analyze the spatial variation of quantitative and qualitative indicators of Orzooiyeh groundwater resources in the Kerman province by using the geographic information system (GIS). Methods: This study attempts to survey the spatial analysis of these indexes using GIS techniques besides the evaluation of the groundwater resources quality in the study area. For this purpose, data quality indicators and statistics such as electrical conductivity, pH, sulphate, residual total dissolved solids (TDS), sodium, calcium; magnesium and chlorine of 28 selected wells sampled by the Kerman regional water organization were used. Results: A comparison of the present research results with standard of Industrial Research of Iran and also the World Health Organization (WHO) shows that, among the measured indices, the electrical conductivity and TDS in the chosen samples are higher than the national standard of Iran and of the WHO but other indices are more favourable. Conclusion: Results showed that the electrical conductivity index of 64.3% of the samples have an optimal level, 71.4% have the limit of Iran national standard and only 3.6% of them have the WHO standard. The TDS index, too, did not reach national standards in any of the samples and in 82.1% of the samples this index was on the national standard limit. As per this index, only 32.1% of the samples were in the WHO standards.}, Keywords = {Spatial analysis, Water resources, Quality indices, Orzooiyeh}, volume = {3}, Number = {4}, pages = {209-215}, publisher = {Kerman University of Medical Sciences}, doi = {10.15171/EHEM.2016.21}, url = {http://ehemj.com/article-1-182-en.html}, eprint = {http://ehemj.com/article-1-182-en.pdf}, journal = {Environmental Health Engineering And Management Journal}, issn = {2423-3765}, eissn = {2423-4311}, year = {2016} } @article{ author = {Mohammadi, Ali Akbar and Ghaderpoori, Mansour and Yousefi, Mahmood and Rahmatipoor, Malihe and Javan, Safoor}, title = {Prediction and modeling of fluoride concentrations in groundwater resources using an artificial neural network: a case study in Khaf}, abstract ={ Background: One issue of concern in water supply is the quality of water. Measuring the qualitative parameters of water is time-consuming and costly. Predicting these parameters using various models leads to a reduction in related expenses and the presentation of overall and comprehensive statistics for water resource management. Methods: The present study used an artificial neural network (ANN) to simulate fluoride concentrations in groundwater resources in Khaf and surrounding villages based on the physical and chemical properties of the water. ANN modeling was applied with regard to diverse inputs. Results: The MLP1 model with eight inputs of parameters such as root mean square error (RMSE) and correlation coefficient of actual and predicted outputs exhibited the best results. The lowest fluoride concentration (0.15 mg L-1) was found in Sad village, and the highest concentration (3.59 mg L-1) was found in Mahabad village. Based on World Health Organization (WHO) standards, 56.6% of the villages are in the desirable range, 33.3% of them had fluoride concentrations below standard levels, and 10% had higher than standard concentrations of fluoride. Conclusion: The simulation results from the testing stage for MLP1 as well as the high conformity between experimental and predicted data indicated that this model with its high confidence coefficient can be used to predict fluoride concentrations in groundwater resources.}, Keywords = {Water quality, Artificial neural network model, Fluoride, Groundwater}, volume = {3}, Number = {4}, pages = {217-224}, publisher = {Kerman University of Medical Sciences}, doi = {10.15171/EHEM.2016.23}, url = {http://ehemj.com/article-1-224-en.html}, eprint = {http://ehemj.com/article-1-224-en.pdf}, journal = {Environmental Health Engineering And Management Journal}, issn = {2423-3765}, eissn = {2423-4311}, year = {2016} } @article{ author = {Dehghani, Mohsen and Alizadeh, Mohammad Hossei}, title = {The effects of the natural coagulant Moringa oleifera and alum in wastewater treatment at the Bandar Abbas Oil Refinery}, abstract ={ Background: The refining process generates large volumes of wastewater containing a variety of chemical contaminants. The use of natural substitutes in treating wastewater which have fewer harmful effects is considered an effective step towards protecting the environment and sustaining the development of these industries. This study focused on the use of Moringa oleifera and alum at the Wastewater Unit at Bandar Abbas Refinery. Methods: This study was performed in 2014 in a laboratory using jar apparatus. These experiments were conducted in batch system and effective parameters including pH, coagulant dose and contact time were investigated on the wastewater obtained from Bandar Abbas Oil Refinery. Results: The jar test experiment showed that M. oleifera at 70 mg/L, optimum temperature, pH, and mixing speed could remove 38.60% of chemical oxygen demand (COD), 63.70% of turbidity, and 62.05% of total suspended solids (TSS). Also, alum at 40 mg/L removed COD, turbidity, and TSS by 51.72%, 92.16%, and 85.26% respectively from the refinery wastewater. Moreover, when M. oleifera and alum was used together with a 2:1 dosage ratio (alum at 80 mg/L and M. oleifera at 70 mg/L), they will remove COD, turbidity, and TSS by up to 50.41%, 86.14%, and 81.52% respectively. Conclusion: The use of M. oleifera as a natural coagulant is important in treating refinery wastewater not only from an environmental but also an economic point of view.}, Keywords = {Moringa oleifera, Alum, Bandar Abbas Refinery, Industrial wastewater}, volume = {3}, Number = {4}, pages = {225-230}, publisher = {Kerman University of Medical Sciences}, doi = {10.15171/EHEM.2016.24}, url = {http://ehemj.com/article-1-221-en.html}, eprint = {http://ehemj.com/article-1-221-en.pdf}, journal = {Environmental Health Engineering And Management Journal}, issn = {2423-3765}, eissn = {2423-4311}, year = {2016} }