Driving errors as a function of listening to music and FM radio: A simulator study.

OBJECTIVES: Driving is a dynamic activity that takes place in a constantly changing environment, carrying safety implications not only for the driver but also for other road users. Despite the potentially life-threatening consequences of incorrect driving behavior, drivers often engage in activities unrelated to driving. This study aims to investigate the frequency and types of errors committed by drivers when they are distracted compared to when they are not distracted. METHODS: A total of 64 young male participants volunteered for the study, completing four driving trials in a driving simulator. The trials consisted of different distraction conditions: listening to researcher-selected music, driver-selected music, FM radio conversation, and driving without any auditory distractions. The simulated driving scenario resembled a semi-urban environment, with a track length of 12 km. RESULTS: The findings of the study indicate that drivers are more prone to making errors when engaged in FM radio conversations compared to listening to music. Additionally, errors related to speeding were found to be more prevalent across all experimental conditions. CONCLUSIONS: These results emphasize the significance of reducing distractions while driving to improve road safety. The findings add to our understanding of the particular distractions that carry higher risks and underscore the necessity for focused interventions to reduce driver errors, especially related to FM radio conversations. Future research can delve into additional factors that contribute to driving errors and develop effective strategies to promote safer driving practices.

Qualitative elemental analysis of selected potential anti-asthmatic medicinal plant taxa using EDXRF technique.

Qualitative elemental analysis was determined in various parts of potential anti-asthmatic medicinal plants using Energy Dispersive X-ray Fluorescence (EDXRF) spectrometer. X-ray beam was used to excite each sample and spectra were recorded with a high resolution Si(Li) detector. The data analysis was carried out by the nEXT software. Trace elements P, S, Cl, K, Ca, Mn, Fe, Cu, Zn, Se, Br, Rb and Sr were estimated and elemental concentrations were determined. The results of the present study compared with standard reference material NIST1515 apple leaves for accuracy. The elements K, Ca, Cl, S and P are major constituents and besides Cu, Zn, Fe, Mn, Se, Br, Rb and Sr were present at low level. The presence of Cu, Zn, Mn and Se in medicinal plants plays a vital role on management and control of asthma disease.