Alborz University of Medical Sciences Journal of Environmental Health Engineering 2383-3211 13 4 2026 3 1 Occurrence of Natural and Artificial Colorants in Food Products: A Five-Year Survey in Tehran (2017–2021) 357 366 FA Hoda Fallahdar MPH student, School of Public Health and Safety, Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran Amin Bagheri Environmental and Occupational Hazards Control Research Center, Research Institute for Health Sciences and Environment, Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran Reza Saeedi Professor, Department of Environmental Health Engineering, School of Public Health and Safety, Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran Background: Today,  food  processing  technologies—aimed  at  increasing  shelf  life  or enhancing the appearance, composition, and color of food—have encouraged food operators to use natural and artificial colors to increase product attractiveness. Therefore, the current study aimed to investigate the prevalence of food colors used in food products offered by food vendors under the supervision of Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences in Tehran. Materials and Methods: This descriptive cross-sectional study involved a secondary analysis of data from 1742 food samples collected and tested by the health centers of Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences between 2017 and 2021. Data were extracted from standard sampling  forms  and food laboratory  reports.  Statistical  analyses,  including  Chi-square tests, cross-tabulations, logistic regression, and odds ratio estimations, were performed using SPSS software version 26. Ethical considerations were observed throughout the study. Results: Out of the 1742 evaluated samples, artificial and natural colors were detected in 922 and  820  samples,  respectively.  Tartrazine  was  the  most  frequently  used  artificial  color, predominantly  found  in  grilled chicken  samples.  Furthermore,  significant  associations  were observed between the use of artificial colors and the type of food establishment (p=0.001), theoperator’s gender (p<0.001), and the operator holding a health training certificate (p=0.002). Additionally, the linear-by-linear association test revealed a significant upward trend in the useof artificial colors over the studied years (p=0.007). Conclusion: The  results  indicated  a  significantly  increased trend  over  time  in  the  use  of artificial  food  colors.  The  continuation  of  this  practice  poses  a threat  to  public  health, highlighting  the  need  for  further  studies  and  targeted  interventions.  Moreover,  raising  the awareness of producers and consumers regarding the adverse health effects of artificial colors, coupled  with  continuous  legal  monitoring  and  enforcement,  can  play  an  effective  role  in preventing the use of these unauthorized additives in food products.

Alborz University of Medical Sciences Journal of Environmental Health Engineering 2383-3211 13 4 2026 3 1 Optimizing Atmospheric Cold Plasma-Based Advanced Oxidation for the Degradation of Polypropylene Microplastics Using Response Surface Methodology 367 392 EN Ali Seyedi Department of Environmental Science and Engineering, Wt.C., Islamic Azad University, Tehran, Iran Roya Mafigholami Department of Environment, Wt.C., Islamic Azad University, Tehran, Iran Shahroz Saviz Department of Physics, Faculty of Science and Converging Technologies, Islamic Azad University, Science and Research Branch, Tehran, Iran Amir Hossein Sari Department of Physics, Faculty of Science and Converging Technologies, Islamic Azad University, Science and Research Branch, Tehran, Iran Background: The presence of microplastics in the environment poses a significant threat to human health. This study aimed to evaluate the performance of an atmospheric cold plasma (ACP) process for the degradation of polypropylene microplastics in aqueous solutions. Materials and Methods: In this laboratory-scale experimental study, key operational parameters including reaction time (30–60 min), applied voltage (20–40 kV), airflow rate (10–20 L/min), pH (4–8), and initial microplastic concentration (500–1000 particles/L) were optimized using a Central Composite Design. Microplastic quantification was performed via microscopic counting. Additional analyses included kinetic modeling, assessment of interfering ions, radical scavenger experiments, energy consumption evaluation, and measurement of COD and TOC removal under optimal conditions. Results: The quadratic model derived from CCD was highly significant (p < 0.0001) and demonstrated that increasing reaction time and applied voltage significantly enhanced removal efficiency. In contrast, higher initial concentrations, excessive airflow rates, and extreme pH conditions negatively affected process performance. The maximum removal efficiency was achieved under optimal conditions, with an applied voltage of 25 kV and an airflow rate of 14 L/min. Neutral pH provided greater stability of reactive species. Kinetic analysis indicated that degradation followed a first-order kinetic model. Radical scavenging experiments confirmed that hydroxyl radicals were the dominant reactive species responsible for degradation. The presence of inorganic ions exhibited both inhibitory and promoting effects depending on their type and concentration. Specific energy consumption analysis demonstrated acceptable energy efficiency of the process. Conclusion: The atmospheric cold plasma process achieved a removal efficiency of 73.2% under optimized conditions and can be considered a promising and energy-efficient approach for the removal of polypropylene microplastics from aqueous environments.

Alborz University of Medical Sciences Journal of Environmental Health Engineering 2383-3211 13 4 2026 3 1 Assessment and prioritization of environmental risks in the Western oil and gas industries using fuzzy AHP (FAHP) 393 411 FA Hamidreza Nazari M.Sc. in Health, Safety & Environmental Engineering, Department of the Environment, Ha.C., Islamic Azad University, Hamedan, Iran Soheil Sobhanardakani Ph.D. in Environmental Science, Professor in Environmental Science, Department of the Environment, Ha.C., Islamic Azad University, Hamedan, Iran Background: As the largest energy production sector in the world, the oil and gas industries have always faced many environmental challenges that can have adverse consequences for human health and natural ecosystems. Therefore, this study was conducted to assess and prioritize of environmental risks in the Western oil and gas industries using fuzzy AHP (FAHP) Materials and Methods: In this descriptive study, by using the fuzzy AHP (FAHP), environmental risks were identified and weighted. In so doing, the criteria and sub-criteria including air pollution, water pollution, soil contamination, habitat destruction, noise pollution, long-term risks, and industrial wastes were identified and prioritized by 30 experts. For this purpose, data were collected by a fuzzy pairwise comparison questionnaire and then analyzed using the FAHP method. SPSS version 20 was used for statistical processing and and analysis of the data.  Results: The results showed that, with the exception of two cases which achieved the necessary consistency rate after modification, all matrices had CR ≤ 0.1, which indicates the high validity of the results and the accuracy of the method used. Also, "chemical leakage into water," "potentially toxic elements in soil," and "destruction of forest ecosystems" had the greatest weight and importance among the identified environmental risks. Therefore, for optimal management of the identified risks, it is recommended to conduct regular and systematic monitoring of water and soil resources, reduce construction activities in forest areasand sensitive habitats, and also require the use of anti-leakage systems in pipelines. Conclusion: As the results showed, by determining management priorities, it is possible to optimally allocate resources, provide effective mitigation solutions for each risk, and design monitoring and implementation plans based on the relative importance of each risk. Therefore, for optimal management of the identified risks, it is recommended to conduct regular and systematic monitoring of water and soil resources, reduce construction activities in forest areas and sensitive habitats, and also require the use of anti-leakage systems in pipelines. Sensitivity analysis confirmed that water and soil-related risks remained stable across different scenarios and required urgent management attention. Thus, this study provides a systematic framework for prioritizing environmental risk management, which can be applied by policymakers and industrial managers to implement sustainable development strategies and reduce negative environmental impacts.

Alborz University of Medical Sciences Journal of Environmental Health Engineering 2383-3211 13 4 2026 3 1 Systematic Review on the Application of Biomass-Derived Biochars for the Removal of 2,4-Dichlorophenoxyacetic Acid from Agricultural Water Sources 412 436 FA Mozhdeh Keramatzadeh Department of Civil Engineering, K. N. Toosi University of Technology, Tehran, Iran Afshin Takdastan Environmental Technologies Research Center, Ahvaz Jundishapur University of Medical Sciences, Ahvaz, Iran Majid Ehteshami Department of Civil Engineering, K. N. Toosi University of Technology, Tehran, Iran Background: Water contamination with the herbicide 2,4-Dichlorophenoxyacetic acid (2,4- D) poses a serious environmental challenge, as its residues not only degrade drinking water quality but also threaten aquatic ecosystems and the food chain. The aim of this systematic review was to summarize and critically evaluate existing research on the performance of various biochars in removing this persistent compound from aqueous environments. Materials and Methods: A systematic literature review was conducted following the PRISMA guidelines by searching major scientific databases including Web of Science, Scopus, ScienceDirect, and Google Scholar. The search covered studies published between 2008 and 2025 that investigated the adsorption of 2,4-D onto biochars. Articles were analyzed based on feedstock type, pyrolysis conditions, chemical or physical activation methods, and operational parameters affecting adsorption efficiency. Results: Reported adsorption capacities of biochars varied widely (from below 10 mg g⁻¹ to over 300 mg g⁻¹), mainly depending on the feedstock source, pyrolysis temperature, and surface modification technique. The Langmuir isotherm and pseudo-second-order kinetic models were most frequently identified as the best-fitting, indicating chemisorption and monolayer adsorption behavior. Acidic conditions (pH = 2–3) consistently yielded the highest removal efficiency. Nonetheless, several challenges remain, including limited data on regeneration performance, real-water applications, and the influence of coexisting ions and organic compounds. Conclusion: This review highlights the potential of biochars derived from agricultural residues as cost-effective and sustainable adsorbents for 2,4-D removal. Improving surface chemistry and structural properties through optimized activation methods could enhance adsorption efficiency and facilitate large-scale and environmentally sound applications in water and wastewater treatment.

Alborz University of Medical Sciences Journal of Environmental Health Engineering 2383-3211 13 4 2026 3 1 Investigation of Photocatalytic Degradation of Tetracycline in Aqueous Solutions using Persulfate / SnO₂/Zn Nanoparticles Proces 437 464 FA Elnaz Zarezadeh Health, Safety, and Environment Research Center, Alborz University of Medical Sciences, Karaj, Iran Aliakbar Roudbari Department of Health Education, Shahroud University of Medical Sciences, Semnan, Iran Mohammad Darvishmotevalli Health, Safety, and Environment Research Center, Alborz University of Medical Sciences, Karaj, Iran Mohammad Noorisepehr Health, Safety, and Environment Research Center, Alborz University of Medical Sciences, Karaj, Iran Background: In line with the development of green chemistry in wastewater treatment, it is important to investigate effective photocatalysts with reusability and easy separation from wastewater for the removal of tetracycline (TC). SnO2-Zn nanoparticles are known for their low cost, low toxicity, and high stability in removing organic pollutants. For TC degradation, an advanced oxidation process based on sulfate radicals (SO₄•⁻) has been developed due to its high oxidation potential, stability, suitable solubility in water, room temperature operation, and low cost. Materials and Methods: The SnO2-Zn nanocatalyst was synthesized via the co-precipitation method and used alongside UV radiation to activate persulfate. The structure of the nanocatalyst and its mesopores were examined using TEM, SEM, XRD, FTIR, and BET analyses, which confirmed the well-formed mesoporous structure and optimal synthesis of the nanocatalyst in terms of morphology, pore size, surface functional groups, specific surface area, and textural and physical properties. Results: Investigations showed complete removal of TC by the SnO2-Zn/PS/UV processunder optimal conditions, including pH = 9, TC concentration = 15 mg/L, catalyst dose = 0.125 g/L, persulfate concentration = 4 mM, and UV irradiation time = 60 min. The radicals SO₄•⁻, OH•, and H⁺ were the primary species in the photocatalytic degradation, and the mineralization rate reached 81.2%. After five reuse cycles, the efficiency remained above97.44%. Conclusion: These results indicate the high recoverability of the nanocatalyst. The proposed method demonstrates high efficiency in removing emerging compounds and pollutants from wastewater.

Alborz University of Medical Sciences Journal of Environmental Health Engineering 2383-3211 13 4 2026 3 1 Examining the amount of baking soda and salt in different breads from bakeries in Khoy city 465 474 FA Zainal Abedin Ali Akbarlou Department of Food Science, Mak.C, Islamic Azad University, Maku, Iran Masomeh Aghazadeh Department of Food Science, Mak.C, Islamic Azad University, Maku, Iran Background: Bread, as a main daily food, provides a major portion of the energy, minerals, and vitamins needed by humans. In recent decades, the use of baking soda (sodium bicarbonate) as a factor to accelerate the dough fermentation process has become popular in some parts of the country, despite its prohibition in bakeries. Baking soda residues in bread can cause digestive upset and impair the absorption of essential elements such as calcium and iron. Materials and Methods: The present study aimed to investigate the amount of baking soda and salt in bread produced by bakeries in Khoy city in a descriptive-analytical and cross- sectional manner. Sampling was conducted from 62 active bakeries, including Lavash bread(24samples), Sangak bread (15 samples), Barbari bread (13 samples), and oil bread (10 samples), and the amount of baking soda was determined based on pH measurement and salt content using a standard method. Results: The results showed that out of the 62 samples, 21 samples had a pH higher than 6.3(indicating the presence of baking soda) and 20 samples had a salt content of more than 2 percent. The highest levels of baking soda and salt were observed in lavash bread with an average pH of 6.21 and a salt content of 2.24 percent, respectively, and the lowest levels wereobserved in Sangak bread (average pH of 5.96) and oil bread (average salt of 1.67 percent). Conclusion: Based on the results, the consumption of baking soda and salt in some bakeries in Khoy city is still above standard levels, and there is a need for further monitoring and education on the correct principles of fermentation and bread flavoring.

Alborz University of Medical Sciences Journal of Environmental Health Engineering 2383-3211 13 4 2026 3 1 Investigating the relationship between compliance with ergonomic principles, job fatigue, and employee efficiency in the Kermanshah Stone Crusher Mine 475 493 FA Mohsen Nazari M.Sc. in Health, Safety & Environment, Department of the Environment, Ha.C., Islamic Azad University, Hamedan, Iran Soheil Sobhan Ardakani Ph.D. in Environmental Science, Professor in Environmental Science, Department of the Environment, Ha.C., Islamic Azad University, Hamedan, Iran Background: The working environment in mines is one of the most dangerous of its kind, which has negative effects on the physical and mental health of workers due to excessive physical workload. Working in such environments is often associated with occupational fatigue, musculoskeletal disorders, and reduced productivity. Therefore, this study was conducted to investigate the relationship between compliance with ergonomic principles, job fatigue, and employee efficiency in the Kermanshah Stone Crusher Mine in 2025. Materials and Methods: In this descriptive study, data were collected using standardized questionnaires on ergonomics, occupational fatigue, and productivity. To analyze the data, Pearson correlation coefficient (PCC), Multiple Linear Regression (MLR) analysis, and structural equation modeling (SEM) were utilized. Also, data analyses were carried out using SPSS version 26 and AMOS Graphics version 24. Results: Based on the results obtained, a significant negative correlation was found betweenadherence to ergonomic principles and occupational fatigue (r = -0.423, p < 0.05), as well as asignificant positive correlation between ergonomics and employee efficiency (r = 0.386, p < 0.05). Furthermore, occupational fatigue was significantly associated with decreased productivity (r=-0.512, p<0.05).The results of the regression analysis also showed that 37.7% of the variance in employee efficiency was influenced by variables related to ergonomic compliance and occupational fatigue. Additionally, structural equation modeling revealed that occupational fatigue plays a mediating role in the relationship between ergonomics and productivity. Ultimately, while confirming all proposed hypotheses, the study highlighted that improving working conditions through the implementation of ergonomic principles can significantly reduce occupational fatigue and increase employee efficiency. Conclusion: The results of the study showed that improving working conditions through the implementation of ergonomic principles significantly reduced job fatigue and increased employee efficiency, which in turn recommends efforts to improve the work environment from the perspective of worker occupational safety and health as a basis for management decisions in the extractive industries.

Alborz University of Medical Sciences Journal of Environmental Health Engineering 2383-3211 13 4 2026 3 1 Isolation and identification of microplastic-degrading bacteria from polluted areas around the petrochemical complex (case study: Lorestan Petrochemical) 494 510 FA Noushin Birjandi Assistant Professor of Environment, Department of Environmental Science, Faculty of Natural Resources, Lorestan University, Khorramabad, Iran Ehsan Hasanvand Qazvin Agricultural and Natural Resources Research and Education Center, Agricultural Research, Education and Extension Organization (AREEO), Qazvin, Iran Samira Pakbaz Plant Protection Department, Faculty of Agriculture, Lorestan University, Khoramabad, Iran Kimia Toulabian Master's student in Environmental Planning, Faculty of Environmental Sciences, Shahid Beheshti University, Tehran, Iran Hasti Daraie PhD in Environmental Health, Faculty of Health, Kerman University of Medical Sciences, Kerman, Iran Background: The mass production, widespread use, and improper disposal of plastic products have led to significant environmental pollution. Over time, larger plastic polymers break down into smaller particles known as microplastics. This study aimed to isolate and identify indigenous beneficial bacteria capable of degrading microplastics in the vicinity of the Lorestan Petrochemical Complex in Khorramabad County, Iran. Materials and Methods: Samples were collected from the rhizosphere of plants, as well as from sludge and contaminated water in the petrochemical area. Following transfer to the laboratory, the samples were cultured on nutrient agar, nutrient broth, and 2XYT media. After isolation and purification, bacterial strains were identified based on phenotypic and biochemical characteristics, as well as partial sequencing of the 16S rRNA gene. The identified species included Pseudomonas koreensis, Curtobacterium flaccumfaciens, Arthrobacter globiformis, and Bacillus cereus. The isolates were further evaluated for their ability to form biofilms, produce siderophores and proteases, exhibit swarming motility, solubilize phosphate, and synthesize indole-3-acetic acid (IAA), among other traits. Results: Among the isolates, Pseudomonas koreensis exhibited the highest levels of biofilm formation, swarming motility, siderophore production, protease activity, and tolerance to petroleum hydrocarbons. Meanwhile, Curtobacterium flaccumfaciens demonstrated the greatest capacity for phosphate solubilization and indole-3-acetic acid production. Conclusion: Bioremediation presents an efficient, economical, and sustainable approach among various remediation strategies, offering the potential for high efficacy with minimal environmental impact in the treatment of contaminated soils. Notably, this study introduces Curtobacterium flaccumfaciens for the first time as a microplastic-degrading bacterium.