Volume & Issue: Volume 5, Issue 4 - Serial Number 18, Winter 2025 
Origional Article Urban Design

Sustainable design of green areas of Tabriz hospitals from the point of view of architecture and landscape experts

Pages 1-13

Ahmad Hami, Roghayeh Ghasemzadeh Khatib, Farzin Emami, Zanyar Samadi-Todar

Abstract Background and Aim: Hospital landscape is being known an important place for patients. It is especially important to regard hospital landscape design as an important quality factor of such environments. However, there is not enough attention given to this matter in the city of Tabriz, Iran. The present research investigates to introduce landscape principal design in hospital green spaces in Tabriz.
Methods and Material: A qualitative semi-structured interview was conducted among nine landscape experts of university of Tabriz those specialized in landscape design, architecture, and urban planning. Before conducting interview, the survey sheet was given participants read which give enough time for them to give more accurate and scientific answers. The experts were asked to explain their opinions regarding hospital landscape furniture, patient mental restoration, visual appeal, social interaction, patients’ leisure time and hospital landscape design elements.
Results and Discussion: The results indicate that hospital Landscape must be corresponding to the needs of three groups of patients, staff and visitors. Cleanness and accessibility and high security are important factors which may affect patients’ tendency patient group to use hospital green space. By providing recreational facilities and amenities such as terraces and monolithic design, visitors might be encouraged to spend more time in the hospital environment. Providing private and quiet space is necessary for staff to relax and escape from stress and pressure. In addition, designed social spaces are necessary to enhance the efficiency of hospital and awareness of people. Elements such as stairs, slippery, uneven floors, allergenic plants and poisonous plants are not appropriate for hospital landscape. Proper maintenance of plants is essential to maintain freshness and greenery, which in turn affects the psychological comfort and satisfaction of users.  Application of the research finding will help to create better landscape in hospital environment and enhance users’ willingness to contact with nature in among urban dwellers.

Article extracted from dissertations Urban Planning

Assessment of Impacts Controllable Factors on Urban Heat Islands Using Multiple Regression Analysis (Case Study: Tabriz Metropolis)

Pages 14-27

Mojtaba Azmoun, Ghader Ahmadi

Abstract Background and Objective: Urban heat islands have become one of the most challenging issues in urban studies. In addition to their primary impact on average temperature, heat islands can also have secondary effects on local meteorology. Urban heat islands are primarily caused by excessive surface heating and heat storage, pollution emissions, human heating, wind circulation barriers, and reduced evapotranspiration.
Methodology: In this study, the split-window algorithm of Landsat 8 sensor with a combination of thermal bands 10 and 11 was used to obtain land surface temperature during the day, and the MODIS sensor was used to obtain land surface temperature at night. To determine the heat island region in the city, global and local Moran's I autocorrelation analyses and Getis-Ord Gi hotspot analysis, both performed in ArcMap software, were used. Multiple linear regression analysis in SPSS software was used to obtain the maximum impact of indices.
Findings and Conclusion: The results indicate that the hottest points during the day were in Region 6 around Tabriz Airport with a temperature of 27.27 degrees Celsius, and at night, the temperature was 17.07 degrees in Region 3. According to spatial Moran's I analysis, both heat islands had a clustered pattern. According to regression results, open spaces and soil texture, with a score of 0.700, had the greatest impact on urban heat islands due to their high heat capacity and were the coolest surfaces at night. The least impact was from built spaces with reflective roofs, with a score of -0.192, which had a cooling effect. Building height with shading and random density had a negative effect on increasing heat. However, the influential index on nighttime heat islands was in conditions where the building density was moderate and the orientation was appropriate, but the height-to-width ratio of the passageway was 1.31 and 0.825, respectively, which caused heat retention.

Origional Article Urban Tourism

Investigating and identifying geotourism and geomorphological capacities effective in attracting tourism (Case study: Malekan city)

Pages 28-41

Fariba Esfandyari, Sonia Zolghadr Khazineh Jadid, Behrouz nezafat taklhe

Abstract Background and Objective: Today, the tourism industry is considered an important and main sector in the global economy, and one of the important fields of this industry is nature-oriented tourism or ecotourism. The share of ecotourism in the tourism industry is very high and has an important position. The aim of the present study is to analyze the geotourism and geomorphological capacities effective in attracting tourism in the city of Malekan, East Azerbaijan Province.
Methodology: In this study, two methods, Kobalikova and Feulet, have been used to evaluate the geotourism potential. The Kobalikova method emphasizes scientific and intrinsic, educational, economic, conservation and other values. The Feulet model also evaluates regions in terms of management rate and tourism rate based on natural and human indicators. The areas studied in this study are Bakhtak Leilan Castle, Shursu Tourist Area, Arpadersi Mineral Spring, Ali Balaghi Shrine, Forest Park Camp, and Ulan Buffalo Valley.
Findings and Conclusion: The results of the evaluation of the Kobalikva model showed that the Arpadersi mineral spring, with a score of 11, has the highest score among the studied areas. Based on the evaluation results in the studied areas, the Bakhtak Leilan Castle Geotourism Area, with a score of 75.6, has the lowest score among the studied areas, which requires attention to this area for development. Also, the results of the Violet model showed that among the studied areas, the Forest Park Camp Area, with a total score of 13 from all sub-indicators, has the highest score. Also, the Olen Buffalo Valley Area, with a score of 25.8, has the lowest potential among the studied areas. Based on the results of the management rate, it was found that the Forest Park and Olen Valley are in good and appropriate conditions in terms of protection, and in terms of tourism rate, the Shorsu area, with the highest score, has good conditions. Therefore, it is concluded that the Arpa Daresi Forest Park Camp and Mineral Spring have great potential in attracting tourism. Finally, it is suggested that in future studies, Serrano-Gonzalez-Truba models be used for a more detailed study to evaluate the geotourism potential of protected areas in the Malekan region.

Origional Article Urban Planning

Pathology of fabric tissues of Urmia city by combining risk management technique and best-worst model (FMEA and BWM)

Pages 42-56

Ahmad Karimi, Mohammad Rasoli

Abstract Background and Aim: In recent years, paying attention to inefficient tissues and recognizing the damage caused in the body and city space has become a serious issue, which necessitates finding appropriate models and methods in order to improve the physical and social dimensions., economic and environmental has made inefficient tissues more necessary. In this regard, the current research was conducted with the aim of pathology of dysfunctional tissues in Urmia city.
Methods and Material: The present research was applied in terms of purpose and descriptive-analytical in terms of data collection, and the field-library method was used to collect information. In this research, infrastructure security risk assessment (FMEA technique) has been used in the first place to identify the risks of inefficient structures in Urmia city, specify the risk priority number and determine the operators, and in the next place, the BWM model has been used to check the amount The compatibility of indicators and their calibration have been used.
Results and Discussion: The investigations carried out in the form of FMEA technique have shown that out of 34 damages with 8 potential effects (vulnerability to earthquakes, increase in social disorder, increase in pollution, decrease in belongingness, physical conflict, financial-financial disability of residents, managerial weakness, weakness in event management) have a significant level of risk and the results of the BWM model have shown that improving the quantity and quality of the platforms for holding ceremonies and historical-cultural events (recreation based on the model event-oriented) and accurate identification of events in worn-out tissues are placed in the first priority of organizing inefficient tissues of Urmia city.

Extract article from research project Rural Planning

Identifying the geotourism and geomorphological capacities of tourism target villages in Namin Township

Pages 57-68

Lotfollah Maleki masoumabad, Behrouz nezafat taklhe

Abstract Background and Aim: Geotourism, as one of the new and developing branches of tourism, examines and uses the geological and geomorphological characteristics of natural areas in order to attract tourists. Tourism target villages can be recognized as attractive destinations for domestic and foreign tourists due to their beautiful natural landscapes, special geographical features, and rich culture. The aim of the present study is to identify the geotourism and geomorphological capacities of tourism target villages in Namin Township in Ardabil Province.
Methods and Material: The method of the present study is to use the new quantitative model of Kobalikwa and Feylot (National Park). In the Kobalikwa method, which emphasizes more on scientific, educational, economic, conservation, and additional criteria, it evaluates the study areas by comparing sub-criteria. In the national park model, geotourism areas are examined based on four criteria: origin of formation, geographical distribution, tourism, and accessibility. The tourism target villages in this study are Anbaran, Golshan, and Soha in Namin Township.
Results and Discussion: The results of the evaluation of the Kobalikwa geotourism model showed that the Anbaran tourism target village, with a score of 10.25, has the highest score among the studied areas, and the second and third places are Soha and Golshan, with scores of 9.5 and 8.25, respectively, which indicates that the Anbaran village has high potential to introduce Namin Township at the national and international levels. The results of the national park model also showed that the Anbaran region, with the highest score of 25.11, has suitable potential compared to the other studied areas. Based on the results in this model, the management and tourism rate of Anbaran was estimated to be very excellent. Therefore, it is concluded that Anbaran village is a historical, cultural, economic and ultimately geotourism village that can be recognized at the national and international levels. Finally, it is suggested that other evaluation models and the integration of natural and human factors be used in future applied studies for better evaluation.

Article extracted from thesis Urban Planning

Analyzing and Identifying the indicators of planning and designing a happy urban landscape

Pages 69-86

Davood Vafadari Komarolya, Hossein Nazmfar, Ahmad Hami, Mohammad Hasan Yazdani

Abstract Background and Objective: Urban landscapes are considered one of the most important urban spaces and can play an important role in creating a sense of happiness for citizens; for this reason, they should be the focus of experts and examined from different perspectives. Accordingly, the purpose of the present study is to analyze and identify the indicators of planning and designing a happy urban landscape.
Methodology: In order to achieve the research goal, library resources were used to write the introduction and interview experts in the field in two stages to obtain the indicators, with a sample size of 24 experts. In the first interview, the indicators were obtained, then in the second interview, the importance of the indicators was determined by forming an actor-target matrix. Subsequently, the obtained data was entered into the MACTOR software and ATLAS.ti software and analyzed.
Findings and Conclusion: The results showed the indicators of the existence of green spaces and urban parks, the existence of places for social interactions, having security and safety, using diversity and color balance, prioritizing the role of humans in urban spaces, the existence of sidewalks and The existence of spaces for the most frequent recreational activities, the indicators of the existence of green spaces and urban parks and prioritizing the role of humans in the most important urban spaces and the indicators of the existence of green spaces and urban parks, the existence of places for social interactions, having security and Safety, taking advantage of diversity and color balance and prioritizing the role of humans in urban spaces are the most converging indicators. In general, experts should make the human-centeredness index of urban spaces the main criteria in their planning and designs in order to increase the desire of citizens to be active and happy in cities with the importance of human role.

Origional Article Urban Planning

Presentation of a Method for Creating a Street Lighting Map Using Mobile Mapping (Case Study: Streets of Ahvaz)

Pages 87-99

Ali Shojaeean

Abstract Background and Aim: Street lighting is a key factor in ensuring the safety and quality of life for citizens. This research examines a novel approach for mapping urban street lighting using mobile mapping techniques. Given the existing challenges in evaluating and managing street lighting, this study analyzes the lighting conditions of the streets in Ahvaz. In this research, laser scanning technology and mobile mapping, along with software such as ArcGIS and Photoscan, have been utilized to collect and analyze precise data regarding the state of street lighting.
Methods and Material: The research methodology is descriptive-analytical, and the data includes information related to light intensity, lighting distribution, and the identification of dark spots. By analyzing this data, accurate maps of the street lighting conditions have been produced.
Results and Discussion: The results indicate that approximately 30% of the surveyed streets require improved lighting. The accuracy of the generated maps is estimated to be around 80%, demonstrating the high capability of this method in providing precise and practical information for urban managers. This research assists urban managers in making better decisions regarding the enhancement of street lighting. Improving the state of street lighting can lead to increased safety, reduced crime rates, and improved quality of life for citizens. This study can also serve as a model for other cities.
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Article extracted from dissertations Urban Tourism

Strategic Planning of Water Tourism Development in Khuzestan (with Emphasis on Water Structures)

Pages 100-114

Hoshang Moradi, , Mehdi Zeinivand, Seyed Mohammad Ali Mousavi Alizadeh,

Abstract Background and Aim: Tourism is one of the most important factors affecting the economic growth and development of contemporary societies. Tourism has been defined as a tool for marginal economic mobility, promotion, and development through the creation of employment and income, which has been greatly expanded during the past few decades. One of the most attractive branches of the tourism industry that has received more attention in recent years is water tourism.
Methods and Material: The purpose of this study is to investigate, feasibility and partially realize the vision of tourism development and to provide macro strategies and find the potential of water structures for the development of water tourism. The present type of research is applied in terms of purpose and in terms of nature and method, it is a survey based on field studies (questionnaire). The statistical population of this research includes 376 university managers and experts in the fields of tourism, water science, and urban planning, who were selected using the purposeful sampling method. For scientific analysis, the combined model of SWOT strategic analysis and the T-test in SPSS software has been used. the results obtained from the analysis of information show that in the current situation, the greatest possibility of realization is related to environmental and socio-economic indicators; The research findings show a positive and meaningful relationship between water tourism and sustainable development of the studied area; as with a significance level of 0.000 and 99% confidence; In order and on average, environmental (3.1), socio-cultural (2.9) and economic (2.9) indicators have the most positive and favorable impact, but hydraulic indicators (2.8) have the least impact. Has had the effect.
Results and Discussion: The results obtained are based on the SWAT strategic model, which includes internal factors; strengths and weaknesses, and external factors; opportunities, and threats. According to the scoring of the items in the research, the total score of internal factors is 2.83 (strengths 1.023 and weaknesses 1.81) and external factors 3.03 (opportunities 1.35 and threats 1.68). Therefore, the best strategy for realizing the water tourism model in the study area is the aggressive strategy of SO or strengthening and using external opportunities with a focus on strengths. The findings of this research can be used to design development policies and expand planning for the future of Khuzestan province; and help to compile the executive guidelines for tourism and recreational activities in the field of water resources and water facilities notified by the Ministry of Energy to the relevant executive body.

Origional Article Urban Environment

The impact of key dimensions of the Fourth Industrial Revolution on urban environmental and social sustainability (Case study: Zanjan city's oil industry)

Pages 115-129

Mehdi Ajalli

Abstract Background and Aim: In recent years and after the fourth industrial revolution took place at the conference in Germany, researchers and industrialists have investigated the influencing factors of this revolution in various industries. On the other hand, they have realized the effect of these factors in improving the stability of production. This study aims to describe the key dimensions of the fourth industrial revolution, to investigate the impact of these dimensions on urban environmental and social sustainability, and to prioritize these dimensions in terms of importance in the zinc industry of Zanjan city. For this purpose, after presenting the conceptual model of the influencing dimensions of the fourth industrial revolution on environmental and social sustainability, six proposed hypotheses were tested. The statistical population consisted of industry experts and specialists with high knowledge and experience, and due to being unknown and unlimited, 384 samples were obtained by using Cochran's table, and finally 410 online questionnaires were collected and analyzed. The content validity of the designed questionnaire questions was confirmed by the opinions of industry and academic experts and the reliability of the questionnaires was 0.823 using SPSS software.
Methods and Material:  The research method is applied-descriptive-survey in terms of goal and data collection. The output of the hypotheses test with the path analysis approach and SPLS software showed the confirmation of all the hypotheses and the positive impact of the dimensions on the sustainability of the industry, and the value of goodness of fit of the model was calculated as 0.302. In the following, with the weighted arithmetic mean method, the mentioned dimensions were re-evaluated by experts and the prioritization of the dimensions was determined.
Results and Discussion: The result indicates that "artificial intelligence" with the most weight was ranked first, and the dimensions of "blockchain technology" and "Internet of things" were ranked second and third. Also, the dimension "robotics" with the least weight was placed in the sixth priority. At the end, practical suggestions were presented to the industry.

Origional Article Urban Planning

Locating fire stations with AHP Fuzzy model in GIS environment (case study: Khorramabad city)

Pages 130-144

Hamideh Hatami, Nader Moradi, Maryam Qaisundi

Abstract Background and Aim: The creation of new urban facilities requires a detailed study on how to properly establish them in different areas of a city. In order to properly allocate urban facilities, the first essential point is to choose the optimal place according to different and sometimes conflicting conditions. This issue becomes important when very important factors such as saving human lives are considered. Therefore, the optimal selection of fire stations is considered to be a fundamental issue due to the importance of the lives of people who are at risk. and among the urban service centers, the fire department performs the task of providing security in order to prevent and deal with fire.
Methods and Material: In this research, by examining the effective factors in locating fire stations, slope, direction of slope, elevation classes, distance from roads, distance from faults, distance from urban centers, maps were prepared using Geographical Information System (GIS) and then classified. It is done again on it and then Expert choice software is used to weight the criteria using AHP hierarchical process. Finally, by applying the overlapping method, the weighted criteria are combined and the optimal location for the establishment of fire stations is determined.
Results and Discussion: In this research, by using the existing parameters of the optimal location in Khorramabad city, it has been determined that the maps can help the authorities to develop optimal location so that they are less injured in critical situations.

Origional Article Sustainable Urban Development

Analysis of Safe Public Spaces :Case Study: Shiraz City Parks

Pages 145-161

Hossein Ebtahimzade Asemin, Abazar Ashtari Mehrjardi

Abstract Background and Aim: In the present century, undesirable urban environments have caused many problems for environmental security and increased social harms, which has resulted in people feeling insecure. In this regard, the present article aims to evaluate and evaluate safety indicators in Shiraz city parks and to measure and rank them based on these indicators
Methods and Material: This research is applied in terms of descriptive-analytical method and type. The statistical population is all individuals and the information was collected through a questionnaire among 300 people from the sample, and the research was analyzed using one-sample T-test and Skull-Wallis statistical tests.
Results and Discussion: The results indicate that the overall level of safety in the parks studied is average, and the indicators of characteristics, legible design, lighting, material safety, feeling of safety, and health safety are in the average to low range with averages of 2.64, 2.83, 2.85, 2.89, 3.07, and 3.41 (according to normal 3), respectively, and the parks of Azadi, Besat, Ghodousi Gharbi, Khaldabrin, Kowsar, and Chamran are ranked first to sixth in terms of safety indicators studied with ranks of 6.2, 2.74, 2.17, 1.7, 2.49, and 3.46, respectively. Therefore, according to the findings, it is suggested: to improve the lighting conditions of the parks for night use, use and protection of equipment in the park, use of restrooms, and to think of solutions and implement them. Measures to prevent addicts and street vagrants from entering parks, etc., are being considered to improve the safety of the parks under study.

Origional Article Regional & urban planning

Assessment of Resilience of Urban Areas Against Earthquake Damage (Case Study: District 1 of Tehran(

Pages 162-181

Bahman Kareghar, Ahmad Rahdar, Ali Mohamadiraja

Abstract Background and Aim: In recent decades, earthquakes have been accompanied by an increase in casualties worldwide in the past hundred years, and in Iran, these casualties have led to about a six percent increase in death and destruction. Therefore, cities, as the sites of these incidents, are of great importance, and enhancing post-earthquake resilience in urban areas is highly significant. Region 1 of Tehran, due to its location on a fault line and various urban challenges, is considered one of the vulnerable areas to earthquakes in the city of Tehran, facing resilience challenges such as high concentration of high-rise buildings, lack of open spaces, and weaknesses in crisis management compared to other areas of Tehran. The aim of this study is to assess the vulnerability of Region 1 to earthquakes with a focus on resilience.
Methods: This research is considered applied in nature and utilizes survey research for data collection, and in terms of data nature, it is quantitative research. The main data collection tool for this research is the TOPSIS questionnaire, which has been adjusted based on the research background and preliminary studies of researchers in the field to align with the conditions and requirements of local management services. The statistical population of the study consists of all experts in the field of crisis management and urban planning, with a sample size of 50 individuals based on Cochran's formula. The present study utilizes the mean test in SPSS software and employs the TOPSIS decision-making method in MATLAB software to measure the level of resilience in the regions of Region 1.
Findings and Conclusion: The research findings indicated that based on urban resilience indicators, five analyzed indicators had the least resilience in both the physical-environmental and institutional dimensions in each region. Ultimately, the results showed that Regions 1, 9, and 8 faced the lowest level of urban resilience against earthquakes in the Region 1 areas.

Article extracted from dissertations Urban Management

Investigating the effects of metaverse and digital twins in the development of smart cities

Pages 182-199

Mohammad Mohammadnejad, Asghar Abedini

Abstract Background and Objective: The emergence of metaverse cities is a novel phenomenon and a necessity for the future of urban environments globally. The urban metaverse results in the creation of enhanced, resilient, and sustainable cities, facilitating future urban decision-making for city managers. The primary reason for the explosion of the metaverse is that it brings limitless imagination to people. The emerging metaverse technology will undoubtedly inject new vitality into smart cities, open up more practical scenarios, and propel them forward.
Research Methodology: This research aims to discuss digitalization and the impact of digital twins on the advancement of modern cities, as well as the core content and key technologies of smart cities. This study is considered fundamental research. It is question - driven and conducted through documentary and library research. Additionally, it is a qualitative exploratory study that employs qualitative content analysis to answer the research questions. Information gathering tools in this research include library sources such as books, articles, theses, development plans, and internet resources.
Findings and Conclusion: Overall, this research serves as a significant reference for the overall development and practical application of smart cities based on digital twins, enhancing the overall operational efficiency and governance level of cities.

Origional Article Urban & Regional Economic

The impact of factors affecting economic growth fluctuations in oil-producing countries towards sustainable regional development (Case study: Iraq)

Pages 200-213

Mohammad hasanzadeh, Abdulrahim Hashemi dizaj, Salah Naji Saleh

Abstract Background and Objective: Due to oil price fluctuations, oil exporting countries can be accompanied by income instability and economic growth. This study examines the effect of oil revenue fluctuations on economic growth fluctuations in Iraq and the moderating role of financial development. Accordingly, the main objective of the study is to answer the question of whether financial development can reduce economic growth fluctuations in the context of oil revenue fluctuations.

Methodology: The present study was conducted using the generalized moments method and time series data to examine the effect of oil revenue fluctuations on economic growth fluctuations and the moderating role of financial development. This method allows for the analysis and examination of the dynamics between macroeconomic variables.

Findings and Results: The findings show that fluctuations due to the abundance of oil revenues have a positive and significant effect on economic growth fluctuations. Also, financial development can play an effective moderating role in reducing the fluctuations in economic growth caused by fluctuations in oil revenues. Based on the findings, it can be concluded that further development of the financial system can reduce the negative effects of oil revenue fluctuations on economic growth and financial development can be considered as an effective tool in managing the effects of oil revenue fluctuations on economic growth in Iraq.

Origional Article Sustainable Regional Development

Prioritization between Infill and underground Development strategies for spatial expansion design and regeneration of Saad Abad complex in Tehran primary core

Pages 214-231

Kiana Eghtebasi, Matin Rostami

Abstract Background and Objective: The issue of protecting historical architectural monuments and spreading the understanding of its cultural-identity values ​​has always been raised in human societies; But today, only maintaining such a building from destruction and environmental damage is not considered efficient and acceptable, rather it is necessary to regenerate the historical buildings and return them to the effective and continuous urban life in connection with the community. In this regard, the current research has aimed the inner and outer building of Saad Abad complex in Tehran primary core and the middle courtyard of these two buildings as an area containing tourism potentials, which a part of it, has been left unused by now, however the historical identity of this area had been integrated. Therefore, due to the internal micro-scale spaces of both buildings and also the lack of direct spatial connection between them, with the aim of compensating for interruption of direct access from one building to another in a connecting space, two strategies for the additional part design, such as Infill and underground Development strategies based on the necessity of gaining satisfaction and support of  tourists and their participation in decisions related to regeneration approach for historical building, it prioritizes the statistical population of 100 random tourists.
Methodology: The mentioned measurement is done through a structured questionnaire and the final result of its analysis will be presented by SPSS statistical software along with bar graphs in alignment with the field information obtained in the form of qualitative information. The research method of this article is survey and field based on quantitative-qualitative information and it also taking needs of users, history and architectural structure of the site, the facilities and use of various parts of the Saadabad complex and geographical features into account in order to answer three basic questions regarding the appropriate use of the site, the identity characteristics, movement and communication system, body and socio-cultural components of the tourism complex and at last, the appropriate design strategy for the site.
Findings and Results: Based on the most felt need of visitors to the Saadabad complex for a covered rest space, along with the dependence of the identity of Saadabad on the history of the Pahlavi royal family, and the tourists' opinion on the use of the digital arts museum with the theme of the biographies of the members of the Pahlavi royal family and the Pahlavi history educational workshop for different age groups, the studied area can accept all three of these uses.

Origional Article Rural Tourism

Study and Analysis of Geotourism Capabilities of the Tourist Village of Bileh Daragh, Ardabil City

Pages 232-244

Mousa Abedini, Fatemeh ٍEmamian

Abstract Background and Objective: Today, the tourism industry has become one of the main sources of income and employment creation at the international level. Identifying the geotourism potential and tourist attractions of each region, along with proper planning, can help develop this industry and attract tourists. Despite having high tourism capabilities, the tourist village of Bileh Darq has remained unknown due to lack of attention and investment, insufficient advertising, etc. The main objective of this research was to investigate the ecotourism capabilities of Bileh Darq village using the Pereira model.
Methodology: This region has always been of great interest to tourists due to its many natural attractions (ecotourism and geotourism). This research has investigated and analyzed the geotourism and ecotourism capabilities of the village of Bileh Daragh using the Pereira model. For this purpose, using the opinions of experts, local people and tourists, questions designed for the Pereira model (40 questionnaires) were conducted, tested and analyzed.
Findings and Conclusion: After calculating the data with the Pereira model, the geomorphological grade of the region was 3.7, which was obtained from the scientific value indices of 4.25 and the complementary value indices of 3.05. In addition, the management grade of the researched area was 7.6, which was obtained from the calculation of the conservation value indices of 2.05 and the functional value indices of 4.65. Finally, the tourist village of Bileh Daragh has obtained a score of 14 out of a maximum of 20 points in total values, which indicates the high ecotourism capabilities. However, the region's geotourism attractions remain unknown due to lack of investment and adequate advertising. The results of this study can help tourism managers and planners to plan properly and develop the tourism industry and attract tourists with scientific support and considering the region's geotourism capabilities.

Origional Article Urban Tourism

Evaluation of geotourism potential and geomorphological destinations of Hir Township for economic development

Pages 245-259

AbdulRahim Hashemi Dizaj, Behrouz nezafat, sayeh abidi, negin shirzadi

Abstract Background and Objective: Geotourism is a type of tourism that is based on geological and geomorphological phenomena and landscapes and has expanded in recent decades with the aim of socio-economic development of geotourism destinations. The purpose of this study is to evaluate the geotourism capabilities and geomorphological destinations of Hir Township for economic development.
Methodology: The nature of this study is descriptive-analytical-applied and to investigate the geotourism potential of the Hir region, the Renard models that examine geomorphosites based on three scientific, added and combined values; the Feuillet model that is based on four criteria of origin of formation, geographical distribution, tourism and accessibility; and finally the Kobalikwa model that emphasizes more on scientific, educational, economic, conservation and cultural criteria were used.
Findings and Results: Based on the results obtained from the Reynard model, the Hair Suspension Bridge has a high geotourism potential and is ranked in the top category, with an average score of 0.7 in the scientific value index, 0.39 in the added value sub-index, and 0.74 in the composite value sub-index. Also, the Hair Suspension Bridge has various capabilities to introduce the region to domestic and foreign tourists based on the Feulet evaluation model in the management and tourism rates, with values ​​of 0.65 and 0.61, respectively. The results also indicate that based on the Kobalikwa model, the Hair Suspension Bridge has a high geotourism value among the studied geosites with a total score of 75.8 and has attracted many tourists to this region. Therefore, it is concluded that the Hair Glass Suspension Bridge in the city of Hair has diverse geotourism and geomorphological potentials and capabilities in the region and is ranked in the top category in terms of attracting tourists to the region and increasing economic power. Therefore, it is suggested that by using virtual and online tourism and introducing different regions of this city to tourists, preparations should be made to attract domestic and foreign tourists to this region.

Extract article from research project Physical geogeaphy

Evaluation and identification of the potential of geomorphological and geothermal destinations in Ardabil province using the Brills and Zoros model

Pages 260-279

Fariba Esfandyari Darabad, Behrouz Nezafat Taklhe

Abstract Background and Objective: The word geothermal has Greek roots. Geo means earth and thermal means heat, which is based on geological features and water resources. Over time, it has been described as a different type of tourism that has a geological or geographical orientation. The aim of this study is to identify the potential of geomorphological and geothermal destinations in Ardabil province using the Brailles and Zoros model.
Methodology: The method of the present study is descriptive, analytical and comparative. In this study, two geotourism models, Brailles and Zoros, were used. This study was conducted in 2024 the statistical population was tourists and tourism and geology industry specialists. In this study, the Braille model refers to the median of the terrestrial diversity index sites that do not have any intrinsic or scientific value and their capabilities are measured based on their relationship with educational and tourism values. The medians were selected by four factors: reputation, integrity, geological type, security, accessibility, and beauty. In the Zoros method, scientific criteria of potential threats and usability are used to evaluate geosites, and each of the criteria used also has sub-criteria.
 Findings and Conclusion: The results of the Zoros model evaluation show that the Meshkinshahr geothermal area has the highest score (75/80). The Ardabil geothermal area is also in second place with 72/5 points. According to the Zoros model results, the Sarein region has the lowest score of 69, which indicates the low geothermal potential in this city. The results of the Braille model showed that in terms of accessibility index, Ardabil region has the highest score with an average of 2.62 and is in first place, and in terms of scientific index, Meshkinshahr region has the first place in terms of world reputation criterion with 12 points. In terms of vulnerability, Sarein region is in first place with the highest score. Therefore, it is concluded that considering that the geothermal areas of Ardabil province are affected by the Sabalan Mountains, this has caused all three geothermal areas to have different capabilities, which the aforementioned models showed that the highest thermal energy is in Meshkinshahr county. Finally, it is suggested that artificial intelligence tools be used in future studies to estimate geothermal areas.

Origional Article Rural Planning

The Role of Virtual Social Networks in Crisis Management of Firefighting in Rural Areas of Lali Township

Pages 280-291

Zahra Soltani, Mansour Gheibipour

Abstract Background and Objective: This study aims to investigate the role of virtual social networks in crisis management of firefighting in the rural areas of Lali Township. The statistical population includes rural council members, district office experts, village administrators (Dehyars), and literate residents of Lali Township and its rural districts (Taraz, Poli, Sarkamari, Hoseynabad, Pachekola, Iranshahr, Sarkuli, and Anbarsafid villages). From this population, a sample of 384 individuals was selected through convenience sampling.
Methodology: The research instrument is a researcher-made questionnaire comprising 30 questions across five dimensions: educational, participatory and social, economic and welfare, and cultural. Data analysis was conducted using SPSS and AMOS software. Potential threats and usability are used to evaluate geosites, and each of the criteria used also has sub-criteria.
Findings and Conclusion: The results indicated that regression analysis predicts the role of virtual social networks in crisis management across the mentioned dimensions in the rural areas of Lali Township (F = 14.32, p < 0.0001). The educational dimension had a standardized beta coefficient of 0.31; the physical and infrastructural dimension, 0.17; the participatory and social dimension, 0.11; the economic and welfare dimension, 0.31; and the cultural dimension, 0.06. These findings suggest that each of these dimensions can be influenced by virtual social networks in managing and predicting crises. Additionally, the R² value showed that 31% of the variance in crisis management can be explained by the role and impact of virtual social networks on these dimensions. The dimension with the greatest perceived impact of virtual social networks in firefighting crisis management was the physical and infrastructural aspect, which achieved the highest mean rank (3.99) according to experts, council members, Dehyars, and literate villagers. Following this, the most significant dimensions in order were educational, participatory and social, economic and welfare, and finally, cultural. The chi-square statistic was 849.83, which is significant at a p-value less than 0.05 (p < 0.05). Overall, it is expected that media—particularly modern digital media—play a significant role during times of crisis, impacting both individuals and society at large. Social networks, in particular, can contribute to stability, peace, and calm during crises and may also help prevent crises due to the increasing influence they have acquired in recent years.

Extract article from research project Social Planning

Prospective study of the state of student sports in the cities of Khuzestan province

Pages 292-310

Esmaeil Veisia

Abstract Background and Objective Today, the use of the future research approach has been proposed as a necessity in the field of sports and especially educational sports in educational and sports institutions. Despite the long history of student sports and physical education in the country's schools, the management of student sports is still facing many issues and problems, and especially at the level of Khuzestan province, the development of student sports and planning for its future has received little attention. In this regard, the purpose of the current research is to evaluate the state of student sports in Khuzestan province, which is practical in terms of its purpose and exploratory in terms of its nature and analytical method.
Methodology: A questionnaire, Delphi technique, and documentary-library studies were used to collect data. The Delphi method and the cross-effects matrix (MicMac) were used to analyze the data.
Results and Findings: The findings of the research showed that among the 15 main factors affecting the state of student sports in Khuzestan province, 9 variables are known as key and influential. These variables have the most influence and the least influence on the future development of student sports in Khuzestan province. Also, the results showed that in terms of the direct influence of variables such as social networks with a score of 860, infrastructure and sports facilities and students' attitude towards sports with a score of 835 and 810, they are located in the first to third positions, respectively. On the other hand, the variables that have an indirect effect on the state of student sports are social networks with a score of 876, infrastructure and sports facilities, and students' attitude towards sports with a score of 872 and 796, respectively, they are located in the first to third positions.

Origional Article Physical geogeaphy

Assessment of Geotourism Potential of Geosites in Hashtjin Township Using the Dynamic Model

Pages 311-328

Aghil Madadi, sayyad asghari, seyyd ali mortazavi

Abstract Background and Objective: Tourism—particularly geotourism, as an emerging branch focused on geological and geomorphological phenomena—plays a significant role in sustainable development, environmental conservation, and regional economic improvement. With its vast natural diversity, Iran possesses great potential in this field. The city of Hashjin, located in southern Ardabil Province, with its distinctive natural features, is one of the promising areas for geotourism development that has not yet been comprehensively evaluated. This study aims to identify and prioritize the region’s geosites and to analyze geotourism assessment indicators within the framework of the dynamic model.
Methodology: In this study, five selected geosites in Hashtjin Township were initially identified for analysis and evaluation. The statistical population consisted of experts in physical geography and tourists visiting the region. Using a non-random purposive sampling method, 15 experts and 30 tourists (a total of 45 participants) were selected to complete the questionnaire. Data collection tools included a researcher-designed questionnaire, geological and topographic maps, and ArcGIS software. Data analysis was conducted based on Hadžić’s dynamic model by calculating three main indices: scientific value, additional values, and geosite vulnerability.
Results and Findings: The results revealed that Agh Dagh Mountain and Qezel Ozan River, with scores of 73.0076 and 64.303, respectively, exhibit the highest geotourism potential among the studied geosites. Diz Waterfall (38.9839), Jafarabad Zaviyeh Hot Spring (38.1518), and Nodeh Waterfall (33.014) ranked third to fifth. Qualitatively, Agh Dagh Mountain was classified as "very good," Qezel Ozan River as "good," and the remaining three geosites as "moderate." Additionally, the findings indicated that Qezel Ozan River, with a vulnerability score of 5.5, is the most vulnerable geosite, while Agh Dagh Mountain, with a score of 10, has the lowest vulnerability.
 Conclusion: The findings of the study indicated that the geosites of Hashtjin, particularly Mount Agh Dagh and the Qezel Ozan River, possess high potential for geotourism development. Despite the advantages of using the dynamic model for evaluation, challenges such as weak infrastructure and high vulnerability in certain areas necessitate targeted management. Accordingly, strategies such as officially designating the region as a geosite, conducting comprehensive documentation, and developing localized evaluation models are recommended.

Article extracted from dissertations Town and country planning (Spatial Organization)

Detection of Land Use Changes in the 2013-2024 Period Using Landsat 8 Image Processing and Analyzing its Effects (Case Study: Miandoab City)

Pages 329-346

Sayyad Asghari Saraskanroud, Amirhosein Pasandeh, Hasan Khavarian

Abstract Background and Objective: Land use and land cover (LULC) are among the most critical indicators of human-environment interaction, reflecting how societies exploit and transform the natural landscape. Understanding temporal changes in land use is essential for sustainable planning, environmental management, and agricultural policy development. This study aims to detect and analyze land use changes in Miandoab County over the period 2013 to 2024 using remote sensing techniques.
Methodology: Landsat 8 OLI/TIRS satellite images for the years 2013 and 2024 were used as the primary data source. After applying radiometric and geometric preprocessing, the images were classified using the Maximum Likelihood Classification (MLC) algorithm, which relies on the statistical distribution of spectral data and assigns each pixel to the most probable class. Eight land use categories were defined: built-up areas, soil, roads, farmlands, orchards, water bodies, salt flats, and saline soils. The classification accuracy was assessed using overall accuracy and Kappa coefficient.
Results and Findings: The classification results revealed significant land use changes over the 11-year period. Farmlands increased from 3,183 ha in 2013 to 4,963 ha in 2024, indicating a major shift toward agricultural expansion. Conversely, orchards and soil areas showed marked decreases, likely due to water scarcity and urban encroachment. Built-up areas expanded to 1,849 ha, reflecting urban development. The classification achieved high accuracy levels (94.07% in 2013 and 94% in 2024), validating the reliability of the MLC approach. The study demonstrates that remote sensing and supervised classification are effective tools for land use monitoring. The observed trends highlight the need for integrated land management strategies to balance development with environmental sustainability in Miandoab.

Article extracted from thesis Sustainable Urban Development

Investigating the level of water pollution in areas of alteration and mineralization (Case study: Northwest of Meshginshahr)

Pages 347-362

Syed Ghafoor Alavi, Alireza Saffari

Abstract Background and Aim: Water is one of the most important and fundamental factors for the life of living organisms, in this regard, one of the most important categories that affects it is alteration and mineralization. In this regard, the soils of the northwest of Meshginshahr, which have been exposed to mineralization and alteration processes, contain large amounts of toxic and heavy elements that affect the water quality of this region. On this basis, the aim of the present study is to study the level of contamination of water in wells, springs and rivers by heavy metals in alteration and mineralization areas in the northwest of Meshginshahr.
Methods and Material: In the present study, library and field studies have been used as needed. Based on these data, a hydrographic map of the region was prepared using topographic maps (1:250,000, 1:50,000) and aerial photographs (1:20,000). In the following work process, water sampling was carried out from 3 sources: wells, springs and rivers, and existing standards (WHO) were used for chemical analysis of these samples. In this regard, sampling was carried out from 20 points of wells, springs, waterways and the Qara Su River in altered and non-altered areas.
Results and Findings: Studies conducted based on the Piper, Wilcox, Schuler diagrams and also the Stiff diagram showed that most of the waters in the study area are undesirable, non-potable and harmful for agriculture. The Langier coefficient also indicates very high sedimentation to corrosion. Another part of the research findings was based on the geochemical behavior of the elements (iron, arsenic, copper, molybdenum, lead, antimony and zinc). Studies conducted in this regard also showed that in most cases the waters under study contain more elements than the permitted limit and the declared standard. However, regarding the lead element, all the water samples in the area have a desirable quality compared to the recommended standard for irrigation.The results obtained from the chemical analysis of the waters in the studied area show that the groundwater of the alteration areas is mainly sulfated, magnesium and calcium, and with the intensification of alteration, the amount of earth elements and strong acids also increases. Most of the waters of the mineralization and alteration areas are among the undesirable and poorly known waters and are also harmful for drinking and agriculture. The high content of sulfate ions, low pH and high corrosiveness of these types of waters are among the factors that make them undesirable. Considering the pollution that has occurred in the surface and groundwater of the area, the purification of drinking water for the residents of the area can play an effective role in reducing the transfer of toxic metals to the biological cycle.