Linking Innovation Systems, International Integration, and Investment Climate to Firm Productivity in Developing Countries

Mahyar Adibi(Mahyar Adibi ),Keun Lee(Keun Lee) 서울대학교 경제연구소 2022 Seoul journal of economics Vol.35 No.4

This paper analyzes the importance of investment climate (IC), international integration (II), and innovation system (IS) variables on firm productivity. These variables are measured at the firm, sector, and country levels. It also investigates the interaction effects among them. Multilevel-mixed effect analysis is conducted using the World Bank Enterprise Survey data for 20 developing countries in 21 sectors. Results indicate that firm-level variables tend to be more robust than sector- or country-level variables and that more II variables are shown be significant than either IC or IS variables. Specifically, sector-level II variables are significant, whereas sector-level IC variables and sector-level R&D variables are insignificant. Sector-level IC and IS variables become significant only when they interact with firm-level variables. The results underscore the importance of firm-level capabilities, which can be enhanced by II (e.g., firm-level learning by exporting and Foreign Direct Investment [FDI] arrangement) and IS (e.g., firm-level education and training) as well as by spillover from sector-level II and human capital. Results also reveal the channels through which IC may affect firm productivity. IC exhibits an effect on firm productivity when it interacts with firm-level capabilities and activities.

Seismic performance assessment of the precast concrete buildings using FEMA P-695 methodology

Mahdi Adibi,Roozbeh Talebkhah 국제구조공학회 2022 Structural Engineering and Mechanics, An Int'l Jou Vol.82 No.1

The precast reinforced concrete frame system is a method for industrialization of construction. However, the seismic performance factor of this structural system is not explicitly clarified in some existing building codes. In this paper, the seismic performance factor for the existing precast concrete building frame systems with cast-in-situ reinforced shear walls were evaluated. Nonlinear behavior of the precast beam-column joints and cast-in-situ reinforced shear walls were considered in the modeling of the structures. The ATC-19’s coefficient method was used for calculating the seismic performance factor and the FEMA P-695’s approach was adopted for evaluating the accuracy of the computed seismic performance factor. The results showed that the over-strength factor varies from 2 to 2.63 and the seismic performance factor (R factor) varies from 5.1 to 8.95 concerning the height of the structure. Also, it was proved that all of the examined buildings have adequate safety against the collapse at the MCE level of earthquake, so the validity of R factors was confirmed. The obtained incremental dynamic analysis (IDA) results indicated that the minimum adjusted collapse margin ratio (ACMR) of the precast buildings representing the seismic vulnerability of the structures approximately equaled to 2.7, and pass the requirements of FEMA P-695.

Simulation of cyclic response of precast concrete beam-column joints

Mahdi Adibi,Roozbeh Talebkhah,Aliakbar Yahyaabadi 사단법인 한국계산역학회 2019 Computers and Concrete, An International Journal Vol.24 No.3

Experience of previous earthquakes shows that a considerable portion of concrete precast buildings sustain relatively large damages especially at the beam-column joints where the damages are mostly caused by bar slippage. Precast concrete buildings have a kind of discontinuity in their beam-column joints, so reinforcement details in this area is too important and have a significant effect on the seismic behavior of these structures. In this study, a relatively simple and efficient nonlinear model is proposed to simulate pre- and post-elastic behavior of the joints in usual practice of precast concrete building. In this model, beam and column components are represented by linear elastic elements, dimensions of the joint panel are defined by rigid elements, and effect of slip is taken into account by a nonlinear rotational spring at the end of the beam. The proposed method is validated by experimental results for both internal and external joints. In addition, the seismic behavior of the precast building damaged during Bojnord earthquake 13 May 2017, is investigated by using the proposed model for the beam-column joints. Damage unexpectedly inducing the precast building in the moderate Bojnord earthquake may confirm that bearing capacity of the precast building was underestimated without consideration of joint behavior effect.

Relationship between Depression and Constipation: Results from a Large Cross-sectional Study in Adults

Peyman Adibi,Maryam Abdoli,Hamed Daghaghzadeh,Ammar Hassanzadeh Keshteli,Hamid Afshar,Hamidreza Roohafza,Ahmad Esmaillzadeh,Awat Feizi 대한소화기학회 2022 대한소화기학회지 Vol.80 No.2

Background/Aims: Accumulating evidence based on a few studies suggests a relationship between depression and functional constipation. This study examined whether depression is associated with a higher risk of functional constipation and whether it is gender specific. Methods: This cross-sectional study was carried out on 3,362 adults aged 18-55 years. In this study, functional gastrointestinal symptoms were determined using an Iranian reliable and valid version of the modified Rome III questionnaire. The Iranian validated version of the hospital anxiety and depression scale was used to evaluate the psychological health. Scores of eight or more on the depression subscale in the questionnaire were considered the presence of depression. Simple and multiple binary logistic regression were used for data analysis. Results: The mean±SD age of participants was 36.29±7.87 years, and 58.5% were female. The prevalence of depression and constipation in the study sample was 28.6% and 23.9%, respectively. In the full adjusted model, in the total sample, depressed people showed a significantly higher risk of constipation; adjusted OR (AOR), 1.69 (95% CI, 1.37-2.09). Although a significant association was observed between depression and constipation in both genders, the association was stronger in men than women (AOR, 2.28; 95% CI, 1.50, 3.63 vs. AOR, 1.55; 95% CI, 1.21, 1.99). Conclusions: These study findings showed that depressed people are at a significantly higher risk of being affected by constipation. The current study findings justify the importance of mental health evaluations in all patients with functional gastrointestinal disorders, particularly among constipated individuals.

Impact of a narrative medicine program on reflective capacity and empathy of medical students in Iran

Saeideh Daryazadeh,Payman Adibi,Nikoo Yamani,Roya Mollabashi 한국보건의료인국가시험원 2020 보건의료교육평가 Vol.17 No.-

Purpose: Narrative medicine consists of the expression of medical experiences and the reflection on narratives to foster empathic communication with patients. Reflecting on narratives increases self-awareness and recognition of the feelings of the narrator or the story’smain character, which in turn affects the audience. This study was conducted to examine the impact of a narrative medicine program onthe reflective capacity and empathy of medical students. Methods: A quasi-experimental study was performed during the 2018–2019 academic year at Isfahan University of Medical Sciencesin Iran involving 135 medical interns in 2 groups (control [n=66] and experimental [n=69]). Interns in the experimental group tookpart in seven 2-hour reflective practice sessions, while those in the control group underwent no educational intervention. Pre-test andpost-test assessments were conducted for both groups using 2 valid and reliable tools for the assessment of reflective capacity and empathy. Mean reflection and empathy scores were compared within groups (between pre- and post-test values) and between groups (usingthe paired-t test and the t-test; P≤0.05). Results: The mean reflection and empathy scores of the experimental group significantly increased from pre-test to post-test, but thoseof the control group did not. Moreover, the mean post-test scores were significantly different between the 2 groups (P<0.001). Conclusion: Narrative medicine is an effective teaching method that can improve reflective capacity and empathy, thereby ultimatelypromoting professionalism as a core competency in medicine. Consideration of learning conditions and interdisciplinary teaching arenecessary for implementing a narrative medicine program.

Effect of inertia and compressibility on the pressure drop oscillations of two-phase boiling flows in horizontal parallel channels

Y. Bakhshan,S. Kazemi,S. Niazi,P. Adibi 대한기계학회 2017 JOURNAL OF MECHANICAL SCIENCE AND TECHNOLOGY Vol.31 No.10

In this study, a mathematical model is developed to study Pressure drop oscillations (PDOs) in two horizontal parallel channels using lumped parameter model assuming a homogeneous two-phase flow model. This model investigates the effect of external parameters, such as fluid inertia and compressible gases, on the stability margins of PDOs. Results show that the fluid inertia and compressible gases have high impact on the stability margins of two parallel channels; in fact, increasing the inlet inertia and outlet compressibility increases system stability, while increasing the outlet inertia and inlet compressibility decreases system stability. Thus, increasing the sub-cooling number and inlet resistance coefficient improves stability behavior.

Presentation of Cerebral Autosomal Dominant Arteriopathy With Subcortical Infarcts and Leukoencephalopathy (CADASIL) in the Acute Phase of COVID-19 Infection

Zeynab Jalilian,Saba Naghavi,Iman Adibi,Vahid Shaygannejad 대한신경과학회 2023 Journal of Clinical Neurology Vol.19 No.2

Development of a checklist to validate the framework of a narrative medicine program based on Gagne’s instructional design model in Iran through consensus of a multidisciplinary expert panel

Saeideh Daryazadeh,Nikoo Yamani,Payman Adibi 한국보건의료인국가시험원 2019 보건의료교육평가 Vol.16 No.-

Purpose: Narrative medicine is a patient-centered approach focusing on the development of narrative skills and self-awareness that incorporates “attending, representing, and affiliating” in clinical encounters. Acquiring narrative competency promotes clinical performance, and narratives can be used for teaching professionalism, empathy, multicultural education, and professional development. This study was conducted to develop a checklist to validate the framework of a narrative medicine program through consensus of a panel. Methods: This expert panel study was conducted from 2018 to 2019 at Isfahan University of Medical Sciences, Iran. It included 2 phases: developing a framework in 2 steps and forming an expert panel to validate the framework in 3 rounds. We adapted a 3-stage narrative medicine model with 9 training activities from Gagne’s theory, developed a framework, and then produced a checklist to validate the framework in a multidisciplinary expert panel that consisted of 7 experts. The RAND/UCLA appropriateness method was used to assess the experts’ agreement. The first-round opinions were received by email. Consensus was achieved in the second and third rounds through face-to-face meetings to facilitate interactions and discussion among the experts. Results: Sixteen valid indicators were approved and 100% agreement was obtained among experts (with median values in the range of 7–9 out of a maximum of 9, with no disagreement), and the framework was validated by the expert panel. Conclusion: The 16 checklist indicators can be used to evaluate narrative medicine programs as a simple and practical guide to improve teaching effectiveness and promote life-long learning

Ontology for Symptomatic Treatment of Multiple Sclerosis

Misagh Zahiri Esfahani,Maryam Ahmadi,Iman Adibi 대한의료정보학회 2022 Healthcare Informatics Research Vol.28 No.4

Objectives: Symptomatic treatment is an essential component in the overall treatment of multiple sclerosis (MS). However, knowledge in this regard is confusing and scattered. Physicians also have challenges in choosing symptomatic treatment based on the patient’s condition. To share, update, and reuse this knowledge, the aim of this study was to provide an ontology for MS symptomatic treatment. Methods: The Symptomatic Treatment of Multiple Sclerosis Ontology (STMSO) was developed according to Ontology Development 101 and a guideline for developing good ontologies in the biomedical domain. We obtained knowledge and rules through a systematic review and entered this knowledge in the form of classes and subclasses in the ontology. We then mapped the ontology using the Basic Formal Ontology (BFO) and Ontology for General Medical Sciences (OGMS) as reference ontologies. The ontology was built using Protégé Editor in the Web Ontology Language format. Finally, an evaluation was done by experts using criterion-based approaches in terms of accuracy, clarity, consistency, and completeness. Results: The knowledge extraction phase identified 110 articles related to the ontology in the form of 626 classes, 40 object properties, and 139 rules. Five general classes included “patient,” “symptoms,” “pharmacological treatment,” “treatment plan,” and “measurement index.” The evaluation in terms of standards for biomedical ontology showed that STMSO was accurate, clear, consistent, and complete. Conclusions: STMSO is the first comprehensive semantic representation of the symptomatic treatment of MS and provides a major step toward the development of intelligent clinical decision support systems for symptomatic MS treatment.

Adherence to Dietary Approaches to Stop Hypertension Eating Plan and Prevalence of Irritable Bowel Syndrome in Adults

( Sanaz Soltani ),( Ammar H Keshteli ),( Ahmad Esmaillzadeh ),( Peyman Adibi ) 대한소화기기능성질환·운동학회(구 대한소화관운동학회) 2021 Journal of Neurogastroenterology and Motility (JNM Vol.27 No.1

Background/Aims Despite huge evidence on the link between adherence to dietary approaches to stop hypertension (DASH) eating pattern and several metabolic abnormalities, the association of this diet with irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) has not been investigated so far. We aim to examine the association between adherence to the DASH diet and prevalence of IBS symptoms and subtypes in adults. Methods This cross-sectional study was done among 3362 adult people in Isfahan, Iran. Usual dietary intakes were assessed using a validated 106-item dish-based semi-quantitative food frequency questionnaire. To investigate participants’ adherence to DASH-style diet, we created DASH score based on 8 main foods and nutrients emphasized or minimized in the DASH diet. Participants were classified into 3 categories according to their DASH-style diet scores. A validated modified Persian version of the Rome III questionnaire was applied for assessment of IBS. Results Totally, 22.2% of study participants were affected by IBS. After adjustment for potential confounding factors, we found that participants in the highest tertile of DASH score had lower odds of IBS (OR, 0.65; 95% CI, 0.50-0.83) compared with those in the lowest tertile. The same findings were also reached for IBS with constipation (OR for the highest vs the lowest tertile of DASH-style diet = 0.56; 95% CI, 0.38-0.85). No significant association was seen between adherence to DASH-style diet and IBS with diarrhea (OR, 1.31; 95% CI, 0.83-2.06). Conclusions We found a significant inverse association between adherence to DASH dietary pattern and odds of IBS and IBS with constipation. Further prospective studies are required to confirm these findings. (J Neurogastroenterol Motil 2021;27:78-86)