Journal specifications

 

  • Country of publication: Iran
  • Year of publication: Fall 2020
  • Standard Summary Title: (SURDS)
  • Credit of the journal: Scientific-Specialized (Ministry of Culture and Islamic Guidance)
  • Publication Season: Quarterly (4 issues per year)
  • Type of publishable articles: Research and Review
  • Referee type: Two anonymous (three referees)
  • Average judging time: 1 to 3 months
  • Average time period for initial review of received articles: less than ten days
  • Type of refereeing: Specialized and Peer Review
  • Journal Language: Persian (Abstract: English)
  • Publication status: Electronic
  • Reference method: (APA 2020)
  • Access type: Free (free access to all articles)
  • Electronic ISSN: 2783-0764
  • Journal Email: srdsjournal@gmail.com
  • Support Email: sustainableregionaldevelopment@gmail.com
  • Journal Site: http://www.srds.ir

Aims and Scope of the Journal of Sustainable Urban and Regional Development Studies (JSURDS)  

According to the interdisciplinary of this subject with geographical science (urban and rural planning), urban and regional planning, urban environment, spatial planning, sociology, urbanism, management and economy, the aim of the Journal of Sustainable Urban and Regional Development Studies (JSURDS)  is to bring together scholars, students, and researchers from a wide array of different fields who do practical researches in the field of sustainable urban and regional development in all levels of planning.

 

Journal of Sustainable Urban and Regional Development Studies (JSURDS) is following of Committee on Publication Ethics (COPE) and complies with the highest ethical standards in accordance with ethical laws.  

This Journal is Open Access and makes its content freely accessible, and allow readers to 'read, download, copy, distribute, print, search, or link to the full texts' of its articles with an appropriate citation to journal.

The journal is open access under a Creative Commons Attribution 4.0 and makes its content freely accessible, which allows users to read, copy, distribute and make derivative works for non-commercial purposes from the material, as long as the author of the original work is cited properly.

 

 

 

Extract article from research project Physical geogeaphy

Assessing the impact of climate change on surface water resources (Case study: Babolrood watershed)

Pages 1-14

Saleh Arekhi, Somayeh Emadodin, Sayed Hussein Roshun

Abstract Background and Objective: In recent years, climate change and human activities have increasingly intensified the global water scarcity crisis. These changes have disrupted the hydrological cycle, placing surface water resources under serious threat in terms of accessibility, quality, and sustainability.
Methodology: To assess the impact of climate change on surface water resources in the Babolrood watershed, meteorological and hydrometric data were initially collected. After addressing statistical deficiencies, removing outliers, and selecting a common temporal baseline, future climate variables (precipitation, minimum temperature, and maximum temperature) were projected for the period 2020–2100 using the CanESM5 climate model under IPCC AR6 scenarios SSP1-2.6, SSP2-4.5, and SSP5-8.5 within the SDSM framework. Streamflow simulation for the future period was conducted using downscaled data processed through an Artificial Neural Network (ANN). Finally, to identify trends in the projected data, non-parametric Mann–Kendall and Sen’s slope estimator tests were applied using the R software environment.
Results and Findings: Trend analysis of streamflow using the Mann–Kendall test, Sen’s slope estimator, and the ANN model over the period 2021–2100 revealed a weak and statistically insignificant decreasing trend across all SSP climate scenarios. The most pronounced decline was observed under the SSP5-8.5 scenario. Minimum temperature exhibited a non-significant increasing trend, potentially indicating nighttime or cold-season warming, while precipitation showed no discernible trend. The ANN model results were consistent with the statistical tests, confirming a gradual reduction in streamflow, thereby underscoring the need for sustainable water resource management in the face of climate change. These findings not only confirm the direct impact of climate change on surface water resources but also highlight the importance of employing intelligent models for long-term analysis and sustainable water resource management. Moreover, they underscore the necessity of integrated approaches and region-specific analyses in future studies.

Origional Article Urban Planning

Spatial analysis of building breach in Sarein Tourism City

Pages 15-37

Alireza Feizinezhad, Hussein Nazmfar, Atta Ghaffari Gilandeh

Abstract Background and Objective: Urban construction control is carried out by urban construction criteria, but despite the various measures of urban management, there are reports of construction breach annually in cities. In fact, construction breach can be defined as non -compliance with urban construction rules and regulations that threaten the quality of life in cities. The purpose of the present study is to evaluate the spatial distribution of building breach in the city of Tourism for use in urban management areas.
Methodology: The method of collecting the information and data needed for the documentation, library and field observations is prepared and a descriptive and descriptive table from the Secretariat of Article 100 of the Municipality. The time range over a one -year period (1401) and its location range is the legal area of Sarein. The present study is descriptive-analytical and practical, using the nearest neighborhood distance and analyzing hot spots in the GIS software platform.
Results and findings: According to the analysis, the highest number of breach occurred in the central core of the city and the Coffee and Chaldaran area, and the surplus breach over the other breach are significant and significant, and the number of breach without licenses is in the next line, and this violation is further excluded from the non -licensed classes. According to the results, the main direction of the breach is from the southwest to the northeast of the city, and the most breach occurred within 600 to 900 meters from the city's center of gravit.

Origional Article Town and country planning (Spatial Organization)

Developing Effective Scenarios for Reducing Inequality in the Provision of Public Services in Urban regions of Urmia through a Futures Research Approach

Pages 38-57

Behrouz Mohammad Rezapour, Mir Najaf Mousavi

Abstract Background and Objective: Urban public services are key elements in shaping the physical, social, and spatial structure of cities. In many urban Regions, especially in developing countries, access to services such as healthcare, education, transportation, and infrastructure is significantly unequal. The main objective of this study is to identify the key factors contributing to inequality in the provision of public services in the study area Urmia city and to develop future-oriented scenarios using futures research tools.
Methodology:This applied futures study employs a descriptive, analytical, and exploratory research approach. In the first stage, the TOPSIS ranking model was used to evaluate and rank the five urban regions based on their level of public services. Subsequently, possible future scenarios were generated using the MicMac and Scenario Wizard software.
Results and Findings: The results indicate that Region Five has the highest level of desirability, Regions One and Four are in a moderate state, and Regions Two and Three are in an unfavorable condition. Scenario analysis reveals two contrasting paths: a favorable scenario characterized by transparency, anti-corruption measures, and equitable resource distribution, which leads to reduced service gaps and improved access; and a crisis scenario marked by budget concentration in select Regions and institutional weakness, which intensifies inequalities. The study underscores the urgent need for action to address disparities in public service distribution and to ensure equitable access to essential urban facilities for all citizens, regardless of geographic location or economic status.

Origional Article Urban Planning

Analysis of Urban Differention and Its Impact on Social and Economic Issues in Shanderman city of Gilan Province

Pages 58-79

Mojtaba Dosti Siahmard, Muhammad Taghi Heydari

Abstract Background and Objective: Urban differential refers to a key phenomenon in urban geography and planning that expresses differences, inequalities, and spatial – socio – economic discontinuities within a city or between different areas of an urban area. The city of shanderman ,located in gilan province in northern iran , is known as one of the important and historical cities of this region with its unique features.
Methodology: the present study uses a combination of quantitative and qualitative methods to examine the urban differential in shanderman from 1365-1400, this study was a descriptive –analytical study that focused on the small population,access to public services ,immigration,unemployment rate,and also on the hierarchical system of ranking and position of the city of shanderman among the cities of Gilan province,qualitative data that shows the depth of the issue ,including semi-structured interriews with experts and scholars,as well as a paradigmatic model,was used to identify causal ,contextual, and intervening conditions.
Findings and Conclusion: the data in integration shows that investment in health and education has been insufficient and local governance, as an effective factor in this field, has deepened socio -economic issues for this region due to the lack of balanced budget allocation. this in balance has caused the central parts of the city to be at the top of the pyramid in terms of health and education services, access to services, and welfare levels, which the peripheral and rural areas of the city are in a weaker position in terms of access to facilities such as small productive industries and welfare and education services.

Article extracted from thesis Sustainable Urban Development

Meta-Analysis of Scientific Articles on the Concept of Smart Sustainable Cities in Iran and Worldwide

Pages 80-95

Ali Moghtafari, Morteza Talachiyan, Ali Reza Estelaji, Farzad Behtash Mohammad Reza

Abstract Background and Objective: In recent years, with the increasing growth of the urban population and pressures from environmental, social, and economic issues, the theory of the "sustainable smart city" has become one of the key concepts in urban studies. The purpose of this research is to conduct a systematic comparative review of studies conducted in the field of the sustainable smart city at the level of Iran and the world, in order to identify and analyze theoretical patterns, commonalities and differences, as well as existing research gaps in this field.
Methodology:This study was conducted using the systematic review method with a comparative approach.The research population consisted of 31 scientific articles published in reputable domestic and international databases between 2017 and 2024, which were selected using standard methods and subjected to qualitative content analysis.
Results and Findings:The findings indicate that at the global level, the sustainable smart city paradigm is understood as a multidimensional and dynamic concept in which technology serves to achieve broader goals such as environmental sustainability, social justice, participatory governance, resilience, and improving the quality of life. In contrast, in domestic Iranian studies, the predominant emphasis has been on the technical and infrastructural aspects of smartening, while the theoretical, social, and citizen-oriented dimensions of this concept have received less attention. This gap highlights the necessity of revising research and policy-making approaches in the national context to move towards the comprehensive realization of the sustainable smart city.

Article extracted from thesis Urban Planning

Assessment of Urban Public Spaces’ Impact on Mental Health within the Framework of Women-Friendly City Criteria(Case Study:Ardabil City

Pages 96-116

Parya Nasiri, Alireza Mohammadi, Mansour Rahmati, Ata Ghafari Gilande

Abstract Background and Objective : Women’s mental health, as one of the essential dimensions of public health, is influenced by various factors, including the quality and accessibility of urban public spaces. This study aimed to analyze the impact of urban public spaces on women’s mental health in Ardabil within the framework of women-friendly city indicators.
Methodology: This applied research adopted a descriptive–analytical approach. The required data were collected through the distribution of 400 questionnaires among women residing in Ardabil, using a systematic random sampling method. The research tool included 58 items covering five main indicators (physical–spatial, socio–cultural, safety, accessibility, and mental health). Data were analyzed using the one-sample t-test in SPSS software and structural equation modeling (SEM) in AMOS software.
Findings and Conclusion:
The results showed that the physical–spatial (mean = 3.17) and socio-cultural (mean = 3.05) indicators were in a relatively favorable condition. Moreover, based on the path analysis results, the physical–spatial indicator had the greatest role in enhancing women’s mental health, with an impact coefficient of 0.89. Following this, the indicators of environmental security, socio-cultural, accessibility, and mental health ranked next in terms of influence. These findings emphasize the importance of designing public spaces with a focus on physical and environmental components to promote women’s mental health and highlight the necessity for urban planners to pay attention to these dimensions. The innovation of this research lies in the simultaneous analysis of five key women-friendly city indicators using Structural Equation Modeling (SEM) and focusing on the city of Ardabil as a localized case, which has received less attention in previous studies.

Origional Article Urban Planning

Strategic Planning to Achieve a Creative City (Case Study: Ardabil City)

Pages 117-128

Navid Ghaffari Chanzanagh, Mohammad Hassan Yazdani, Delavar Masoumi

Abstract Background and Aim: Urban creativity is one of the main drivers for achieving sustainable development. This requires having creative industries, creative employees, creative knowledge, and cultural richness. The present study was conducted with the aim of strategic planning to achieve a creative city in Ardabil.
Methodology: The present study is applied in terms of purpose and descriptive-analytical in terms of method. The data collection method is library-survey. Based on the creative city indicators and the collected data, 34 strategies for achieving a creative city were divided into five main criteria (people, economic enterprises, urban spaces, connections and communications, and city vision and reputation), and to determine their importance (opinions of 50 experts), structural equation testing was used in SMART-PLS software.
Results and Discussion: The results showed that the economic enterprises criterion (factor loading 0.937), the people criterion (factor loading 0.936), the urban spaces criterion (factor loading 0.918), the linkages and communications criterion (factor loading 0.896), and the city vision and reputation criterion (factor loading 0.875) are the best strategies for achieving a creative city. Also, among the economic enterprises criterion, specialized support for creative businesses (factor load 0.87), among the people criterion, developing creative capacity at all levels of general education (factor load 0.85), among the urban spaces criterion, creating stable and secure spaces for cultural and artistic activities (factor load 0.76), among the linkage and communications criterion, providing virtual infrastructures and facilitating electronic communications (factor load 0.82), and among the city's vision and reputation criterion, planning to enhance the city's regional and supra-regional position and facilitating the presence of tourists (factor load 0.83) are the most important strategies for achieving a creative city in Ardabil.

Origional Article Urban Tourism

The Effect of Organizational Citizenship Behavior on Employee Performance in the Hotel Industry (Case Study: Abbasi Hotel, Isfahan City)

Pages 129-148

Jafar Bahari, Mohammad Alizadeh

Abstract Background and Objective: Human resources, as the most important and valuable resource, play a significant role in the success of an organization because the organization's human resources have the ability to change their performance and are considered the main tool for achieving organizational goals. Today, the success of organizations requires more attention to human resources. In order to succeed, organizations must make good use of their human resources capabilities, and in this regard, paying attention to organizational citizenship behavior is of particular importance. Therefore, in today's world, having employees who go beyond their roles and duties and demonstrate organizational citizenship behavior is a prerequisite for the success of organizations. Therefore, the present study was conducted with the aim of the effect of organizational citizenship behavior on employee performance in the hotel industry at Abbasi Hotel in Isfahan.
Methodology: The statistical population of this study included all employees of Abbasi Hotel in Isfahan. The data required for this study was collected from the employees of Abbasi Hotel in Isfahan using a simple random sampling method and a questionnaire. The present study is applied in terms of purpose and is descriptive and survey-type based on the data collection method. Also, structural equation modeling using Smart PLS software was used to analyze the data.
Results and Findings: The results indicate that organizational citizenship behavior and each of its dimensions have a positive and significant effect on employee performance. It was also shown that the work conscientiousness variable has the largest path coefficient value and its effect on employee performance is greater than that of other variables.

Extract article from research project Urban Tourism

Presenting a digital brand model for sustainable urban development (Case study: Ardabil city)

Pages 149-166

Ghasem Zarei, Mahta Azizi

Abstract Background and Aim: The objective of the present study is to investigate the intersection of digital marketing and sustainable urban tourism, focusing on Ardabil City as a case study. Digital marketing provides innovative tools for promoting destinations, along with advancing responsible tourism practices. Sustainable urban tourism also seeks to balance economic growth, cultural preservation, and environmental management in urban spaces.
 Methods and Material:The research method is inductive and a qualitative approach based on Grounded Theory. The participants in the research process include experts, university professors, and experienced employees in the fields of tourism and marketing. Additionally, a purposive sampling method was used, and to reach theoretical saturation and development, interviews were conducted with 12 people  and analyzed using MaxQDA software.
Results and Discussion: Based on the results, the causal conditions (weakness in promoting sustainable tourism attractions, weakness in the digital ecosystem, mismatch of existing marketing methods with modern tourist expectations, and cultural and social challenges); the contextual conditions (geographical and natural features, facilities and infrastructure, and the economic and social structure of the local community); the intervening conditions (political and managerial factors, human resource training and expertise, and technological and infrastructural barriers); the strategies (utilizing digital marketing elements, integrated and interactive platform strategies, and collaboration and synergy strategies); and the outcomes (increased awareness and attraction of responsible tourists, economic and social empowerment of the community, branding of Ardabil City as a sustainable destination, and environmental results) were identified.

Article extracted from thesis Regional & Urban Spatial Organization

Modeling the socio-security development of Sistan and Baluchestan Province

Pages 167-187

Hosein Rezaei, Afsaneh Zamani Moghadam, Gholamreza Memarzadeh Tehran

Abstract Background and Objective: The capacities and capabilities of Sistan and Baluchestan province in terms of geography, natural and economic resources, and potential human resources are many, which, if realized, can bring many advantages to both the province and the region. Given the importance of this issue, the purpose of the present study is to design a social-security development model for Sistan and Baluchestan province.
Methodology: The research method is structural equation modeling and quantitative-survey. The research population consisted of all managers and employees of government organizations in Sistan and Baluchestan province. The sample size was 292 people selected using the Cochran formula. The research tool was a researcher-made questionnaire and the collected data were analyzed in two descriptive and inferential methods using SPSS 16 and Smart PLS software.
Results and Findings: Seven components play a role in explaining the socio-security development of Sistan and Baluchestan province, which are: economic security, social security, military security, development of justice, development of quality of life, development of social ethics, and finally development of political security. In order to examine the fit of the model, X2, R and RS were examined, and the existence of a low X2 and the ratio of chi-square to the degree of freedom of less than three, as well as the calculated coefficient of determination and adjusted coefficient of determination, indicated a proper fit of the model. Finally, from the summary of the factors, dimensions and components of the socio-security development model of Sistan and Baluchestan province, 4 factors were proposed with high priority. These factors are: first priority: military security, second priority: social security, third priority: development of quality of life, and finally, fourth priority: development of justice. It is hoped that this type of study will be a step towards deepening applied knowledge and improving the socio-security situation of Sistan and Baluchestan province.

Origional Article Urban Planning

Measuring the Efficiency of Managerial Strategies in Improving Urban Livability in Tabriz Metropolis

Pages 188-206

Razieh Ghasemzadeh, Mohammad Hassan Yazdani

Abstract Background and Objective: Rapid urbanization and environmental pressures challenge cities to provide a high quality of life. Livability, encompassing social, economic, physical, and environmental dimensions, is influenced by effective urban management. This study aims to evaluate the impact of managerial strategies on urban livability in Districts 1 and 10 of Tabriz, identifying strengths and weaknesses to inform sustainable planning and policy decisions.
Methodology: Descriptive-analytical approach with questionnaires. Data were analyzed using SPSS with t-tests and regression analysis to compare districts and assess relationships between management strategies and livability indicators.
Results and Findings: Findings indicate significant differences between the two districts. District 1 demonstrated higher levels of livability across most indicators, especially in infrastructure and services, while District 10 showed weaknesses in socio-cultural and environmental dimensions. Regression results confirm a meaningful relationship between the quality of urban management and perceived livability. These findings are consistent with international research emphasizing the role of governance, participation, and equitable distribution of resources in enhancing urban life.

Origional Article Urban Planning

The Impact of Green Infrastructure on the Development of a Smart Sustainable City (Case Study: The Metropolis of Karaj)

Pages 207-229

Atta Ghaffari Gilandeh, Mansour Rahmati, Mohamad Mahdi Mahabadi pour, Yasser Afshoun

Abstract Background and Objective: With the rapid pace of urbanization and its associated environmental challenges, novel approaches such as the smart sustainable city and green infrastructure have become essential. However, the gap between theory and practice, particularly regarding the prioritization of interventions, persists. This study was conducted with the objective of analyzing the impact of green infrastructure on the realization of a smart sustainable city and providing a data-driven framework for spatial prioritization in the metropolis of Karaj.
Methodology: This is an applied study employing a descriptive-analytical method. Initially, 24 key variables were identified and distributed to 30 experts via a questionnaire. Subsequently, using a hybrid approach, the Cross-Impact Matrix Multiplication Applied to Classification (MICMAC) technique was utilized to identify key drivers, and the Combined Compromise Solution (CoCoSo) method was employed to rank the readiness of the 11 urban districts of Karaj.
Results and Findings: The results indicated that seven drivers, including "permeable surfaces," "ecological corridors," "investment," and "integrated governance," are the most powerful factors influencing the system. Furthermore, the CoCoSo analysis identified District 5 as the most suitable area for initiating projects. The findings emphasize that a successful transition to a smart sustainable city requires an integrated strategy that simultaneously focuses on physical infrastructure, governance factors, and economic incentives, and that policies must be formulated based on spatial priorities. Ultimately, this study shows that the realization of a smart sustainable city in Karaj is only possible through an integrated strategy that incorporates the key physical, governance, and economic drivers within specific spatial priorities.

Origional Article Sustainable Regional Development

Analysis of terminal risks and interbank correlations in Iranian listed banks: A hybrid model approach of deep learning and Gaussian processes)

Pages 230-249

Sepideh Azimi, Saeed Kianpoor, Ali Reza Homaioonfar

Abstract



Background and Objective: This research was conducted to measure tail risks and interbank correlations within the Iranian banking system and to identify the root causes of systemic fragility. The focus is on the extended period following the global financial crisis (from 2008 to 2024), during which the banking system has been under severe pressure from structural factors such as fixed provisional profit payments to depositors, widespread overdrafts from the central bank, severe balance sheet imbalances, and macroeconomic shocks. The primary objective is to assess the current state of systemic vulnerability and forecast probable future paths using advanced hybrid modeling approaches.
Methodology: This study employs a novel hybrid model integrating deep learning, Gaussian processes, Time-Varying Parameter Vector Autoregression (TVP-VAR) models, interbank network analysis, and extensive Monte Carlo simulations. Quarterly data on twelve key banking variables (including overdrafts, non-performing loans, capital adequacy ratio, liquidity, etc.) alongside macroeconomic variables (inflation, exchange rate, economic growth, etc.) from 2008 to 2024 were analyzed. A systemic vulnerability index and the magnitude of risk transmission through various channels (particularly the trust channel) were calculated and compared with conventional methods.
Results and Findings: The results indicate that the Iranian banking system entered a stable critical and chaotic regime at the beginning of 2008 and has remained in this state until the end of 2024. The systemic vulnerability index surpassed 0.96 in 2024, signifying a highly fragile condition nearing a critical point. Shocks to the system operate in a highly asymmetric manner, with negative shocks being approximately ten times stronger than positive ones and tending to be nearly permanent. Risk transmission among banks occurs almost entirely (close to 100%) through the trust channel and hidden correlations. The root cause of this fragility is the continued policy of paying fixed provisional profits to depositors (despite real resource-use imbalances) and the widespread overdrafting of banks from the central bank, which has created a vicious cycle of liquidity expansion and steadily increasing systemic risk. Simulations estimate the probability of a systemic collapse by the end of 2026, assuming the current trend continues, at over 87%. Conversely, immediate and decisive structural reforms, including the complete elimination of fixed provisional profit payments, the dissolution or merger of insolvent banks, and a serious overhaul of corporate governance, could steer the banking system toward a stable and self-reinforcing regime. The forecasting accuracy of the proposed model is significantly higher than that of traditional methods.

Origional Article

Critical Re-reading of the Rational Comprehensive Planning Approach(CRPP): Foundations,Challenges, and Lessons from Global Experiences

Pages 250-269

Fatemeh Sheikhi, Mohammad Mohammadnejad

Abstract Background and Objective: Rational Comprehensive Planning, as one of the dominant approaches in urban planning during the second half of the twentieth century, has been grounded in assumptions such as instrumental rationality, the possibility of comprehensive knowledge, the predictability of the future, and the existence of a single public interest. However, contemporary social, economic, and institutional transformations particularly in cities of developing countries have cast serious doubt on the effectiveness of this approach. The objective of this study is to provide a critical re-reading of Rational Comprehensive Planning and to assess its theoretical and practical capacities and limitations in addressing the complexities of contemporary urban conditions.
Methodology: This study employs a critical literature review method based on the SALSA framework (Search, Appraisal, Synthesis, and Analysis). Accordingly, classical theoretical works and recent empirical studies related to Rational Comprehensive Planning particularly those published during the periods 1950–1980 and 2020–2025 were systematically collected from reputable academic databases, screened, critically appraised, and subsequently analyzed through conceptual synthesis.
Results and Findings: The findings indicate that the core assumptions of Rational Comprehensive Planning are difficult to realize in practice due to data limitations, conflicting interests, the role of power, social dynamism, and future uncertainty. Global experiences, especially in developing countries, demonstrate that the implementation of technocratic versions of this approach has frequently resulted in a gap between plans and reality, implementation inefficiencies, the expansion of informal settlements, and various forms of social resistance.
The results suggest that the challenges of Rational Comprehensive Planning are not merely related to implementation failures, but rather stem from structural limitations within its theoretical foundations. Nevertheless, revitalizing the effectiveness of this approach is possible through its redefinition and integration with adaptive, participatory, learning-oriented, and context-sensitive approaches an orientation that is better suited to addressing the complex realities of contemporary cities.
 

Article extracted from the postdoctoral project Physical geogeaphy

Examination of the Temporal-Spatial Distribution of Ancient Sites in the Qezel Ozan River Basin, the eastern region of Kurdistan Province, Iran (1st Millennium BCE), with a Focus on Geographic Information System (GIS)

Pages 270-291

Ardeshir Javanmardzadeh, Habib Shahbazi Shiran, Mozhgan Rostami

Abstract Background and Objective: Human societies have long enabled settlements by creating habitable environments that are suitable for their surroundings. In archaeology, this approach emphasizes the significant role of environmental factors in evaluating settlements within each period. Besides identifying the extent of environmental impacts, this perspective reveals the degree of adaptation of habitats to prevailing environmental conditions. As spatial tools have advanced, GIS archaeology has evolved, allowing the visualisation of ancient settlements and the analysis of changes in spatial use over time.
Methodology: This study uses environmental factor analysis to examine the settlement and distribution patterns of 161 ancient sites in the Qezel Ozan Basin with a GIS information system. After the analysis of GIS maps, it assesses and distributes these settlements in relation to the natural environment, focusing on water resources, altitude, slope, and land use.
Results and Findings: Since the 1st millennium BCE, the foothills and plains have seen an expansion in the dispersion of communities. 2. The 1st millennium BCE villages are mostly found at elevations of -2000 m, with an average slope of 5-10. They are situated less than -500 m from rivers, and the choice of land type has been made. A decrease in population and the type of seasonal deployments is indicated by altitude, steep slopes on riverbanks (plains to foothills). 3. Land use: The distribution of ancient sites in the Qezel Ozan river basin is indicated by the rise and development of agriculture, transportation routes along water resources, trade exchanges, and regional and interregional links.The evolution of settlements in the East Kurdistan region from the Chalcolithic to the Islamic era demonstrates the adaptation and competition of inhabitants with the natural environment in the Qezel Ozen basin. It also provides insights into the complex social development of the region.

Origional Article Regional & Urban Spatial Organization

Providing Sustainable Development Strategies for Peri-Urban Villages (Case Study: Khodagholi Village, Bojnord Township

Pages 292-313

Foroogh khazaeeNezhad, Mohammad Ahmadi

Abstract Background and Objective: Rural settlements as a context for human life and activities are a multidimensional issue. The issue of rural settlements is part of a broader issue that is manifested under the title of sustainable development at the national and regional levels. Therefore, it is considered by rural, urban and regional planners. Since the peri-urban spaces and villages of Iran, especially in North Khorasan Province, are at a critical juncture in their rural-urban transformation and development process, they must have precise planning in line with unbridled growth. In this regard, this research intends to envision a sustainable role for the village by designing a 5-year plan for Khodagholi village.
Methodology: The method of this research is descriptive-analytical in nature. Library and field methods (questionnaire, interview and observation) were used to collect information. Also, focus groups and qualitative methods were used to analyze the information. The geographical territory of Khodagholi village is one of the villages within the Bojnord city limits.
Results and Findings: The research findings show that the location of Khodagholi village within the Bojnord city limits has increased the rate of migration to this village and has caused many problems. According to the SWOT results, the strengths and opportunities of this village are more than the weaknesses and threats. Therefore, its most important development strategy is aggressive. According to the QSPM results, creating the necessary infrastructure for tourism and accommodation, developing the services, infrastructure and facilities required by the village, completing the rural guide plan, developing small, home and modern jobs, developing the industrial-workshop sector of the village and completing the value chain of village products are the most important strategies for sustainable development of the village.

Origional Article Urban Planning

Strategic Planning Utilizing the 15-Minute City Approach (Case Study: Hamidiyan Neighborhood, Rasht City)

Pages 314-335

Sara Ahmadpour Shemami, Ali Pasha, Mahdi Bornafar, Saber Mohammadpour

Abstract Background and Objective: Increasing population density in urban areas and the rising concerns regarding sustainability and public health have encouraged residents to adopt active mobility patterns. In this context, the concept of the 15-minute city has emerged as a modern urban model aiming to ensure that residents can access essential daily needs (such as work, education, healthcare, and recreation) within a maximum 15-minute distance using non-motorized modes.
Methodology: This applied research was conducted with a descriptive–analytical approach in the Hamidian neighborhood of Rasht. Data were collected through library studies, field observations, maps, satellite images, and upper-level planning documents. Strategies for realizing the 15-minute city were formulated using the SWOT technique and prioritized through the QSPM matrix.
Findings and Conclusion: The findings indicate that the most fundamental requirement for steering the Hamidian neighborhood toward a 15-minute city is improving accessibility and mobility systems. The top three strategies holding the highest priority directly relate to enhancing safe and efficient non-motorized mobility (walking, cycling, and public transport), emphasizing that without adequate transport infrastructure, other objectives of the 15-minute city cannot be achieved. Based on the QSPM scoring, “the quality of pedestrian pathways and pedestrian safety” was identified as the key factor with the highest score, while “smart technologies and tourism development” were recognized as the lowest-priority factor under the neighborhood’s current conditions. Despite challenges such as limited public spaces and weak transport systems, the neighborhood possesses notable potentials, including its suitable connectivity and the presence of the Einak Lagoon. Priority strategies include improving the transport network, enhancing pedestrian pathways, and developing non-motorized access to services and green spaces. Ultimately, the successful implementation of this model requires collaboration among management institutions, citizen participation, and the adoption of smart technologies.

Origional Article Urban Planning

A Multidimensional Examination of Social Security in Urban Environments: Emphasizing Physical, Social, and Institutional–Governance Factors (Case Study: Azadshahr Neighborhood of Yazd)

Pages 336-367

Mitra Ghorbi, Behrooz Biqaraz

Abstract Background and Aim: Rapid physical and social transformations in Iranian cities over recent decades have rendered neighborhood social security a multidimensional and complex phenomenon, necessitating simultaneous analysis of spatial attributes, social relations, and institutional mechanisms. This study aims to conduct a multidimensional analysis of social security and evaluate the explanatory power of physical, social, and institutional-governance dimensions in the Azadshahr neighborhood of Yazd.
Methodology: Employing a sequential mixed-methods exploratory-explanatory design, the research was implemented in two phases. In the qualitative phase, semi-structured interviews were conducted with residents, security experts, and urban specialists, followed by thematic analysis to identify context-specific indicators of social security. In the quantitative phase, data were collected from 367 residents and analyzed using structural equation modeling (SEM).
Results and Discussion: Results indicated that the proposed model exhibited satisfactory fit, with all three dimensions—physical, social, and institutional-governance—exerting statistically significant positive effects on social security. The social dimension emerged as the strongest predictor (β = 0.56, t = 11.74, p < 0.001; R² = 0.57), driven particularly by neighborly relations, social capital, and a sense of belonging and ownership. The physical dimension demonstrated a moderate-to-strong effect (β = 0.31, t = 4.21; R² = 0.23), with the highest correlations observed for public space design and lighting. Although the institutional-governance dimension was significant (β = 0.29, t = 3.98; R² = 0.19), it exhibited the weakest direct influence. Collectively, the integrated model accounted for 63% of the variance in social security. These findings underscore that social security in the studied neighborhood is fundamentally a socio-perceptual phenomenon, contingent upon local cohesion, trust, and participatory dynamics rather than purely physical or supervisory measures. Consequently, strategies to enhance urban security—particularly in Iran’s medium-sized cities—should prioritize strengthening social capacities and local capital, complemented by physical restructuring and improvements in the quality of local governance.

Article extracted from dissertations Rural Planning

The Impact of Rural-Urban Integration on Health-Oriented and Media-Oriented Lifestyles (Case Study: Somarin City ,Ardabil Province

Pages 368-389

Arastoo Yari Hesar, Bahram Imani, Arezoo Moradi Shagongenash

Abstract Background and Objective : In recent decades, planners have adopted various strategies, including the transformation of villages into cities, with the aim of reducing regional inequalities and urban-rural disparities. These transformations have not only caused structural-functional changes but have also influenced the lifestyle of residents in these areas. The present research aims to investigate the impact of rural-urban integration on lifestyle changes among the residents of Somarin city in Ardabil.
Methodology: This study is applied in nature and quantitative in method. The statistical population includes all residents of Samarin rural-city, and the statistical sample consists of 252 households, estimated using the Cochran method and selected through systematic random sampling.
Results and Findings: The results indicate that changes have occurred in health-oriented (49%) and media-oriented (54%) lifestyle indicators; however, these changes have not been particularly pronounced or fundamental in the studied environment. In other words, rural-urban integration and administrative-managerial transformations have led to quantitative changes in lifestyle, and lifestyle transformations have been more influenced by social interactions and cultural-media factors among residents than by decisions made by governmental institutions. Analysis of the findings reveals that rural-urban transformation in Samarin has resulted in unbalanced changes: while media consumption (74.6%) has grown significantly, access to health services (29.9%) has shown limited improvement. This gap highlights the need to revise classical lifestyle theories for transitioning societies and to adopt an integrated approach in planning.

Origional Article

The role of biofuels in the sustainable development of the agricultural supply chain: using artificial computational intelligence methods

Pages 390-409

lotfollah Maleki Masoomabad, Sina Ardabili, Fatemeh Hashemi

Abstract Background and Objective: With increasing environmental pressures and the growing need for clean energy, the use of biofuels has been considered as a solution to improve the sustainability of the agricultural supply chain. This study aimed to analyze the role of biofuels in the sustainable development of the agricultural supply chain using a systematic, focus group, and computational intelligence-based modeling approach.
Methodology: In the first stage, a systematic review method based on the PRISMA guideline was used to identify key variables. With the participation of 20 experts in the focus group format, the most important influential parameters, including biofuel production technology, support policies, energy infrastructure, and economic and environmental indicators, were identified. Subsequently, random forest algorithms and Relief feature selection were used to analyze the data.
Results and Findings: The modeling showed that the random forest algorithm was able to effectively cluster supply chains with different levels of sustainability with an accuracy of 85% (AUC=0.98). Clustering indicated that indicators such as direct employment generation in rural areas, pollution reduction, energy cost reduction, and distance to processing centers had the greatest impact on promoting sustainability, while the type and amount of biofuel consumed had a lesser impact. The findings indicate that sustainable development of the agricultural supply chain requires a focus on improving production technologies, biofuel infrastructure, targeted support policies, and educational programs for farmers.While providing a new framework for integrating renewable energies into the agricultural supply chain, it can provide a basis for policy decisions and optimization strategies to achieve sustainable development in the agricultural sector of Iran and other developing countries.

Article extracted from thesis Urban & Regional Economic

Investigating the Nonlinear Causal Relationship between Government Revenues and Expenditures in Iran: Markov Switching Nonlinear Causal Method

Pages 410-428

Hamid Reza Panahi, Zahra Karimi Tekanloo, Mohammad Mahdi Barghi Oskoie

Abstract Background and Objective: Examining the relationship between government expenditures and revenues is crucial for economic growth and development. Understanding the causal relationship between government income and expenditures can significantly aid in formulating an important budgetary plan to achieve economic prosperity in a country. The relationship between government income and expenditures can indicate the level of government investment in key sectors of the economy (such as education, health, and infrastructure). Increased investment in these sectors leads to long-term economic growth.
Methodology: Given the importance of investigating the relationship between government spending and revenues, this study has examined this relationship and identified the cause-and-effect relationship using the Markov Switching method. The present study has applied the Markov Switching causality method to data from the period 1973-2022.
Results and Findings: The results indicate that in a state where both government revenues and expenditures are high, causality runs from government revenues (both other revenues and oil revenues) to construction and current expenditures. In contrast, in a state of low revenue and expenditure, oil revenue only leads to a change in development costs, and other revenues lead to a change in current costs. Examining the results from the expenditure side to government revenues separately for the two investigated regimes shows that during the zero regime (high revenues and expenditures), no causality is observed from development and current costs to revenue. Conversely, when the income and expenditure situation is low, only development costs can lead to a change in other revenues, and no causality is observed from current costs to government revenues.

Origional Article Urban Planning

Study and analysis of obstacles to entrepreneurship development in Lali County

Articles in Press, Accepted Manuscript, Available Online from 22 May 2026

Ruholah Khodri Mir Quaid

Abstract Entrepreneurship is a concept that has attracted great attention from economists and management theorists in the last few decades. Today, for social and economic progress and development, societies need to develop entrepreneurship; but there are obstacles that prevent entrepreneurial activities and entrepreneurship cannot develop in societies. Entrepreneurs or entrepreneurs are the economic success of society. Entrepreneurs play a key role in the economic development and social transformation of every society. Entrepreneurs have been considered and studied as key elements in accelerating the development of developing countries and in the revival and continuation of the development of industrialized countries. In this article, the concept of entrepreneurship, entrepreneurship development, and obstacles to entrepreneurship development are examined. Entrepreneurship development refers to the process in which individuals (entrepreneurs) identify business ideas and opportunities and establish and grow new businesses using financial, technical, and human resources. Entrepreneurship development generally includes processes and activities that encourage and support individuals to start and manage their own businesses. Which has obstacles, obstacles to entrepreneurship development in each city may differ based on the characteristics and geographical, economic, social and political conditions of the city. The purpose of this study is to investigate and analyze the obstacles to entrepreneurship development in Lali city using the SWOT model. This study is descriptive-analytical in terms of its applied purpose. And its information has been collected and prepared through library and field methods.

Origional Article Urban Planning

Analyzing the Impact of Access to Urban Public Spaces on Women's Mental Health: A Study in Ardabil City

Articles in Press, Accepted Manuscript, Available Online from 22 May 2026

Parya nasiri, Hadi Hakimi, Alireza Mohammadi, Mansour rahmati

Abstract Background and Objective: Mental health represents a fundamental dimension of women's overall well-being and is deeply influenced by various individual and environmental factors. Among these, access to urban public spaces plays a significant role in shaping women’s psychological and emotional experiences in cities. Public spaces—such as parks, plazas, and green areas—can provide opportunities for social interaction, relaxation, physical activity, and a sense of safety, all of which contribute to improved mental health. This study aims to investigate the relationship between access to urban public spaces and women's mental health in Ardabil, Iran, by examining multiple influencing dimensions.
Methods: This applied study uses a descriptive-analytical research design. Data were collected from a sample of 400 women in Ardabil through a structured questionnaire, using a systematic random sampling method. The instrument included 58 items across six core indicators: physical-spatial features, socio-cultural dimensions, perceived safety, access to parks, mental health status, and depression levels. Data analysis was performed using one-sample t-tests in SPSS software and Structural Equation Modeling (SEM) in AMOS to explore relationships between variables.
Results and Conclusion: The results indicated that physical-spatial (mean = 3.17) and socio-cultural (mean = 3.05) components were in relatively favorable condition. The SEM path analysis demonstrated that the physical-spatial factor (β = 0.89) exerted the most significant effect on improving urban space quality. Environmental safety, socio-cultural characteristics, access to parks, mental health, and depression followed in descending order of impact. The study underscores the importance of inclusive urban design and planning, suggesting that enhancing physical and environmental aspects of public spaces can foster women's presence in cities and significantly support their mental well-being.

Origional Article Urban Design

The impact of climate and geographical components on the historical context and architectural structure of traditional houses in Ardabil city

Articles in Press, Accepted Manuscript, Available Online from 22 May 2026

Seyed Mehdi Hosseini Nia, Habib shahbazi Shiran, Nahid Pur Esmail, Sara Jahani

Abstract Background and Aim: The elements of local architecture of each region are more influenced by environmental and climatic factors than any other factor. These factors, as a determining factor, have led to the emergence of different architectural styles in different regions; to the extent that their effect is visible in the entire urban context and even in individual buildings and interior architectural elements of spaces. The current research studies the effect of the environment and geographical components on the design and construction of old houses in the historical context of the city of Ardabil.
Methods and Material:This research is analytical-descriptive and based on the authors' survey in the historical context of the city of Ardabil and on library studies and field surveys.
Research questions: The research questions are formulated as follows: 1) What effect has the climate had on the location and layout of traditional houses and the urban space of Ardabil? What climatic and geographical factors have influenced the layout, physical space, and architectural components of historical houses in the city of Ardabil?
Results and Discussion: The results of the study show that architects have considered factors such as the direction of the sun's rays, humidity, temperature, and wind directions in designing urban spaces and the layout of buildings and spaces. Also, the overall shape of the courtyards, interior and exterior spaces, openings, and materials used are in harmony with the ecosystem of the studied area.

Article extracted from dissertations Physical geogeaphy

Investigation and Synoptic Analysis of Heat Waves using some GCM Models in the Ardabil Plain

Articles in Press, Accepted Manuscript, Available Online from 22 May 2026

Zahra Imanzadeh Ajirlou, Bromand Salahi

Abstract Background and Objective: The aim of this paper is to identify, classify, and analyze heat waves synoptically and predict them in the Ardabil plain.
Methodology: First, the 20-year long-term statistics of heat waves from 1995 to 2014 at the Ardabil synoptic station were prepared, and heat wave synoptic maps were extracted and analyzed using the Grads software. Using the LARS-WG model, possible heat waves were predicted in the next 38 years (2015-2050).The studies identified 25 heat waves during the 20-year period.
Results and findings: The results also showed that the usual time for the onset of heat waves is in early August. The results showed that the dominant patterns during the occurrence of heat waves include a zonal high pressure accompanied by a westerly wind wave ridge and a low pressure prevailing over the sea surface and the Pakistan and Saudi low pressure over the study area. The results also showed that the average annual maximum temperature of Ardabil during the statistical period from 2015 to 2050 will be about 13.68 degrees Celsius. According to the HadCM3 model, under the A1B scenario, the temperature is about 16.46, according to the IPCM4 model, under the B1 scenario, the temperature is about 16.54, and according to HADGEM, under the A2 scenario, the temperature is 16.55 degrees Celsius, with a difference of 0.01.The output of the aforementioned models showed that the temperature of the Ardabil plain will increase by an average of about 3 degrees Celsius by 2050.

Origional Article Physical geogeaphy

Optimal Location Selection for Agricultural Areas Using Remote Sensing Data and Analytical Hierarchy Process (Case Study: Ardabil County)

Articles in Press, Accepted Manuscript, Available Online from 20 February 2026

Behrouz Sobhani, Morteza mamlouki

Abstract Background and Objective: Optimal location selection for agricultural areas refers to the process of identifying the best lands for crop cultivation while considering various factors such as climatic conditions, soil properties, and water resources to enhance productivity and sustainability. This study aims to identify suitable agricultural areas in Ardabil County by utilizing remote sensing data and the Analytical Network Process (ANP).

Methodology: In this research, environmental factors influencing agriculture were first identified and classified into four main categories: topography (elevation, slope, aspect), climate (temperature, precipitation, evapotranspiration), water resources (surface runoff, soil moisture, groundwater reserves, distance from streams), and land cover (soil texture, land use, NDVI). Satellite data from reliable sources such as MODIS, CHIRPS, GRACE, Landsat 8, and TerraClimate were used, and necessary analyses were conducted within the Google Earth Engine environment. The weighting of criteria was carried out using Super Decisions software and ANP analysis. Finally, the optimal agricultural area map was generated using ArcGIS software.

Findings and Conclusion: The results of the study indicated that the western and southeastern regions of Ardabil County have high potential for sustainable agriculture due to favorable climatic conditions, adequate water resources, and suitable topography. In these areas, factors such as elevation, precipitation, soil moisture, and slope have had positive impacts on agricultural growth and productivity. In contrast, the central and eastern regions face more challenges in agriculture due to reduced precipitation, low elevation, and limited water resources. The increase in evapotranspiration and the lack of groundwater reserves highlight the need for modern irrigation methods and the cultivation of drought-resistant crops in these areas.

Origional Article Physical geogeaphy

Power assessment of geotourism capabilities of Germi County using the Kirchner model and GAM

Articles in Press, Accepted Manuscript, Available Online from 20 February 2026

Behrouz nezafat taklhe, Aysan Fatehi, Mohammad Sadra Kabuli, Maryam Sagha

Abstract Background and Objective: The aim of this study is to evaluate the geotourism potential of Germi County using Kirchner and Gam models. The study area is located in the geographical range of 38 degrees and 50 minutes to 39 degrees and 10 minutes north latitude from the equator and 47 degrees and 25 minutes to 48 degrees and 12 minutes east longitude from the Greenwich meridian.
Methodology:. In this study, first the geomorphological and geological features of Germi County were identified and analyzed. The necessary data were collected from various sources including geological maps, satellite images, and field studies. Then, using the Kirchner model, the geotourism potential of different areas of the county was evaluated. This model determines the ability to attract tourists using criteria such as geological diversity, accessibility to attractions, and environmental quality. In the next step, the Generalized Linear Analysis (GAM) method was used to analyze and predict the effects of different variables on geotourism capabilities. This method allows for the examination of nonlinear relationships between variables and can help identify factors affecting tourist attraction.
Findings and results: A review of the geotourism indices of the regions shows that the Sholler Waterfall in Darreh Si has the highest score with a score of 35.11 in terms of the GAM model. This region has an incremental value of 33.3, while its conservation value of 68.1 points indicates the need for further protection to preserve this natural resource. The results of the Kirchner model calculations also show that the Shule-Lor waterfall in Darreh-e-S has obtained a total score of (2.190). Also, in this geosite, the scientific value is the highest with (0.650) points and the conservation value is the lowest with (0.225) points.
Conclusion: The results of this study showed that some specific areas of Germi County have high potential to attract tourists, especially the areas around hot springs and mountainous areas with beautiful natural landscapes. This study also examines the challenges and obstacles in the development of geotourism in Germi County and provides suggestions for improving infrastructure, effective advertising, and educating local communities. Finally, it is suggested that the analysis and evaluation of the geotourism capabilities of Germi County be based on artificial intelligence and geotourism occurrence models.

Origional Article Physical geogeaphy

Tracking and Synoptic Analysis of the Hyperthermia of July 13, 2024 in Khuzestan Province

Articles in Press, Accepted Manuscript, Available Online from 20 February 2026

Aysan Kanzi Hagh, Bromand Salahi

Abstract Background and Objective: Climate is a pervasive and important component of the ecosystem, and its changes, although insignificant, can affect other components to varying degrees. Among the most important climatic disasters that bring devastating environmental consequences every year are heat waves. The aim of the present study is to investigate the synoptic heat wave above 50 degrees Celsius on July 13, 2024, in Khuzestan Province.
Methodology: This research was conducted with an environmental perspective on atmospheric circulation, in which, first, the recorded temperatures of Khuzestan province stations and their changes were received from the Meteorological Department of Khuzestan province, and then by receiving data from the upper levels of the atmosphere and analyzing them, the causes of extreme heat were identified. In this research, to analyze the synoptic patterns leading to the heat wave in Khuzestan province, the atmospheric data at the level of 500 hectopascals were extracted from the NOAA website, which included maps of geopotential height, sea level pressure, omega, relative humidity and precipitable water, temperature, wind speed and thickness for the days of July 13-15, 2024.
Results and findings: The results showed that the penetration of thermal low pressure systems in Pakistan and Saudi Arabia, the establishment of the subtropical Azores high pressure in the southwest and the Siberian high pressure in northern Iran at a level of 500 hectopascals, were the most important influential patterns in creating the heat wave of July 13, 2024 in Khuzestan Province, which began 48 hours ago. The association of this low pressure system located in the region with its topographic pattern (Southern Zagros heights) and its counterclockwise currents from the south and southwest of the province caused the warm advection of the radiant temperature of the hot deserts of Lut, Saudi Arabia, and the Sea of Oman. On the other hand, by passing over the warm waters of the Persian Gulf and the Sea of Oman, it affected this region simultaneously with the onset of the hot season, which resulted in a sharp increase in temperature and provided the necessary synoptic conditions to create heat above 50 degrees Celsius in Khuzestan Province.

Origional Article Rural Planning

Estimation of radiant flux and radiation balance in the summer months for electricity supply to villages in Chalus County using Landsat satellite images

Articles in Press, Accepted Manuscript, Available Online from 22 May 2026

Lotfollah Maleki Masoomabad, Maryam Mohammadzadeh Shisheh Garan

Abstract Studies show that the role of thermal remote sensing in the study and estimation of Earth's surface temperature is very important. Earth's surface temperature is an important indicator in the study of energy balance models at the Earth's surface on a regional and global scale. Given the limitations of meteorological stations, remote sensing can be a suitable alternative for estimating Earth's surface temperature. The main goal of this research is to monitor Earth's surface temperature using satellite images and a relationship that has surface temperature and radiant power. For this purpose, the relevant images were first obtained and the necessary pre-processing was applied to each. Then, the images were modeled. Initially, images from the year 2023 of the Landsat 8 satellite, the OLI sensor and the TIRS sensor, and the Sebal algorithm were used to conduct this research. ENVI software was used for geometric, atmospheric and radiometric corrections of satellite images and also for performing calculations related to the SEBAL model, and ArcGIS software was used for creating a database, spatial analyses, cartographic operations and finally implementing the model. The results show that the average of the highest incoming shortwave radiation was 769 watts per square meter in September and the lowest value was in the next month of August with 730 watts per square meter. And the lowest value was in July with 555 watts per square meter. The reason for this difference in radiation power in the amount of net radiation reaching the ground in the study area is due to the difference in the angle of the sun's rays and the number of sunny hours in different months of the year. It can be concluded that solar radiation from the radiation threshold to 1000 watts per square meter is received, it can be concluded that solar radiation and radiation balance in the villages of Chalus County have the potential to provide electricity in a suitable way

Article extracted from thesis Regional & Urban Spatial Organization

Investigating the geo-strategic position of Azarbaijan in the Sassanid period, a case study, Shiz (Ganzak)

Articles in Press, Accepted Manuscript, Available Online from 22 May 2026

Ardalan Raeis Giglou, Karim Hajizadeh Bastan, Behruoz Afkhami, Habib Shahbazi Shiran

Abstract Abstract
Background and Objective: Azerbaijan, with its ancient name Atropatekan, located in the northwest of the Iranian plateau, is a geostrategic region with special capacities. The aim of this research is to study the importance of the position of Azerbaijan, especially Shiz (present-day Takht of Solomon) in the Sassanid period, and to examine the influential components of this importance.
Methodology: This research was conducted using the method of library studies and a descriptive-analytical approach. The materials are presented based on reliable historical texts and archaeological articles and reports.
Research Questions: The questions raised include the reasons for the Sassanids' greater attention to the geographical area of Azerbaijan; In other words, on what indicators did the Sassanid Empire strengthen and expand its sphere of power in Azerbaijan, especially Shiz (Ganzak)? What impact did these indicators have on the expansion and development of the Sassanid Empire?; Can geographical features, natural features, and proximity to borders be the reason for the importance of this region and religious centralization?
Results: The results of the research show that the geography and geopolitical borders of the region, the abundance of water resources, fertile soil and suitable agricultural base, mines, and transportation routes, were important potentials in Sasanian Azerbaijan and had indescribable strategic value. One of the reasons for the success of the Sasanian kings in various wars and conquests is the geo-strategic location of Azerbaijan. This is why the Sasanian victor adopted the strategy of reviving and establishing new cities along the trade routes from the northeast to the northwest borders; The construction of large water supply facilities during the Khosrow era, the strategy of concentrating power in Shiz and developing scientific centers in this city, the creation of defensive fortifications throughout Azerbaijan, the exploitation of rich mineral resources and the construction of iron smelting furnaces have strengthened the circle of power and the stability of the government in actualizing and exploiting these potentials.

Article extracted from thesis Urban Planning

Developing effective components in the design of residential apartments in the temperate and humid climate of Iran in order to reduce energy consumption in Mazandaran Province

Articles in Press, Accepted Manuscript, Available Online from 22 May 2026

fatemeh taherigorji, Mohammad Reza Ebrahimnejad, Noushin Abbasi

Abstract Introduction
Buildings are considered the leading energy consumers, representing 40% of global energy usage. In Iran, due to insufficient focus on energy issues by both the population and authorities, over 40% of total energy consumption is allocated to this sector. The primary aim of this research is to assess the influence of each design parameter (form, envelope, openings, and roof) from the viewpoint of professionals in this field, focusing on residential apartment designs for energy reduction in Iran’s humid and moderate climate. The secondary goal is to rank these components (form, envelope, openings, and roof) in terms of their energy-saving potential, as advised by experts.
Methods and Material
This research adopts an applied methodology, utilizing both qualitative and quantitative techniques based on the nature of the data. In the qualitative phase, thematic analysis was employed to prioritize the components and define the critical design elements for reducing energy consumption. Initially, 41 indicators were identified for the four main parameters (form, envelope, openings, and roof). The quantitative phase involved using a questionnaire, with expert feedback ensuring the accuracy of the findings, leading to the identification and ranking of 37 final indicators.
Results and Discussion
The results reveal that, from the experts' point of view, to reduce energy consumption in residential apartments in Iran’s humid and moderate climate, the envelope and openings components received the highest rankings, with weights of 0.383 and 0.312, respectively. Among envelope elements, the highest weight was given to avoiding metal materials. For openings, the most significant factor was the optimal placement of windows. In terms of roof design, the most valued element was the use of sloped roofs, while for form, the spacing between buildings ranked the highest. Experts in this field suggest that following the prioritization proposed in this study could effectively contribute to lowering energy consumption in residential apartments in the target climate.

Origional Article Physical geogeaphy

Time-spatial estimation of frosting of apricot trees in Kurdistan province for the purpose of regional sustainable development

Articles in Press, Accepted Manuscript, Available Online from 20 February 2026

Mohammad Hussein Gholizadeh, maryam qaisvandi, Masoud Moradi

Abstract Background and Aim: This research was conducted in order to estimate the time-space occurrence of frosting of apricot trees in Kurdistan province. The daily data of the minimum temperature in the spring season in the period of 1/1/1980 to 31/12/2018 were used. The trend of minimum temperature changes in the studied stations was estimated using the Mann-Kendall test and the minimum temperature change values ​​using the Sen slope index.
Results and Discussion:  The results of the analysis of the frequency of frostbite showed that Zarineh and Saqez stations, which are part of the northern stations and are located at higher latitudes, have more frequency and continuity of frostbites. Baneh station had the least amount of frost among all the stations. Stations located in the south, east, and west regions are less likely to experience frostbite. The study of the minimum temperature changes that cause frostbite of fruit trees such as apricots showed that the severity of frostbite in Kurdistan province has decreased and the temperature has increased by about one degree centigrade per decade. The result of this process leads to a decrease in the number of frostbite. The evaluation of the minimum temperature changes in April in Kurdistan province showed that the highest rate of increase in minimum temperature in April and as a result the reduction of frostbite was observed in the eastern stations of the province, including Qorveh and Bijar In the month of May, the highest rate of increase in minimum temperature and decrease in frostbite was estimated in the eastern stations of the province, including Qorve 1.084 degrees Celsius and Bijar 0.781 degrees Celsius for each decade and in the month of June, the increase of frost in Baneh and Kamiyaran stations was estimated to be 0.84-1.235 °C per decade, respectively.

Origional Article geographical information system

Spatial Analysis and Assessment of Resilience of Zabol City Against Natural Hazards with Emphasis on Floods

Articles in Press, Accepted Manuscript, Available Online from 22 May 2026

Davood Shahvardi, Gholamreza Miri, Hossein Mollashahi, Marim Karimian Bostani

Abstract In recent years, the increase in the frequency and severity of floods caused by climate change and excessive urban development has created serious challenges for human societies and the environment. Meanwhile, flood resilience assessment has been proposed as a fundamental solution to reduce losses and increase the ability of natural and human systems to cope with this phenomenon. Geographic Information System (GIS) with its unique analytical and visualization capabilities is an efficient tool for identifying high-risk areas, analyzing effective factors, and planning flood management solutions. This study has comprehensively investigated the factors affecting flooding in Zabol County using modern spatial analysis methods. By using the Random Forest (RF) algorithm and combining 9 key indicators including topography, slope, precipitation, slope direction, watercourse density, geology, land use, topographic wetness index (TWI), and distance from the watercourse, an accurate map of flood risk zoning in the region was prepared. The results showed that topography (importance 0.77) and precipitation (importance 0.68) indicators have the greatest impact on flood occurrence. The presented model has high accuracy with a kappa coefficient of 0.93 and RMSE of 0.15. The analyses show that about 45% of the study area is in the high-risk and very high-risk categories, mainly located in the southern low-lying areas with gentle slopes and close to waterways. This study highlights the importance of integrated flood management approaches with an emphasis on natural and human factors in arid regions.

Origional Article Urban Planning

Evaluation of geotourism potentials of tourism target cities in Alborz province based on the Hadzik and Kobalikwa model

Articles in Press, Accepted Manuscript, Available Online from 20 February 2026

Rahim Sarvar, Hasan Nezafat taklhe

Abstract Background and Objective: Geotourism is a scientific trend in common connection with the fields of earth sciences and tourism, which aims to identify geosites or special geomorphological places. The aim of this research is to evaluate the geotourism potentials of the tourism target cities of Alborz province based on the Hadzik and Kobalikwa model.
Methodology: The methodology in this study is the use of quantitative models of Hadzik and Kobalikova. In the dynamic model, the term heritage is composed of several elements including cultural, historical, social, aesthetic, archaeological, educational, scientific, entertainment, physiological and artistic (landscapes have been a source of inspiration for painters, sculptors and writers). The value and importance of each geotourism site in this method is estimated by the scientific value indices and the surplus values of that geotourism site. The Kobalikova model emphasizes more on scientific, educational, economic, conservation and cultural criteria.
Findings and results: Based on the results of the Hadzik model, it was shown that among the studied regions, Taleghan County with a score of (82.65) has a greater ability to attract tourists than other regions. Karaj County with a score of (44.79) and Savjbolagh County with a score of (25.15) are in second and third place. Based on the results of the Kobalikwa model, the Taleghan region obtained the highest score with the highest value in all indicators and a total score of (9.03), and accordingly, the Taleghan region has the highest geotourism potential.
Conclusion: Therefore, it is concluded that Taleghan geotourism areas have a good potential for attracting tourism compared to other geotourism areas. Finally, it is suggested that in future studies, more natural and human factors should be used to evaluate geotourism potentials.
Keywords: Geotourist, Tourism Target, Alborz, Hadzik, Kobalikva.

Article extracted from dissertations geographical information system

Investigation and evaluation of the amount of railway line subsidence (Case study: Hamedan-Sanandaj axis)

Articles in Press, Accepted Manuscript, Available Online from 20 February 2026

Somayeh Abdi, Mustafa Khabazi, Behnam Moghani Rahimi

Abstract Introduction: The phenomenon of land subsidence has caused many problems and dilemmas in agricultural lands, roads, power and energy transmission lines for various reasons, including excessive extraction of groundwater resources and climate change. In the last decade, subsidence has been occurring as a geomorphic hazard in a large part of the plains of Iran, including the Ardabil Plain. The increasing human need for water resources in recent years has led to an increase in the exploitation of surface and groundwater resources. One of the hazards facing the plains of the country is the risk of subsidence.
Methods and Material:  In this study, the annual land subsidence rate in Hamedan-Sanandaj province (Dehgolan-Qorveh and Hamedan-Bahar railway lines) has been investigated using data from the Sentinel 1 satellite and the combined aperture radar interferometry (InSAR) technique. To ensure the accuracy of the results obtained from processing satellite images, hydrological information including the water level of the region's piezometers has been used.
Results and Discussion: Based on the results of interferometric image processing, we are witnessing subsidence in the study area. The observed subsidence range from InSAR processing shows that the highest subsidence has occurred in areas with a high density of wells and thick clay layers. Finally, the results of radar interferometry show the subsidence rate in the Dehgolan-Qorveh area as 0.17, 1, and 1.5 mm per year, respectively. Next, using the GIS spatial information system, the risks of subsidence in the area were analyzed. The results show that important and strategic structures are at risk of subsidence.

Origional Article Physical geogeaphy

Assessing the ecotourism potential of natural areas of the Shtebin tourist village in East Azerbaijan province

Articles in Press, Accepted Manuscript, Available Online from 20 February 2026

Mansour Rahmati, Vahideh Rajabpour, Behrouz Nezafat Takleh

Abstract Background and Objective: Geotourism is a type of sustainable tourism that emphasizes education and protection of geological and geomorphological attractions in addition to them. Geotourism is one of the important aspects of ecotourism with a responsible and conservation-oriented approach; which emphasizes popularizing earth sciences and the cultural, social, and economic development of the local community. The purpose of this study is to assess the ecotourism potential of natural areas of the tourist village Shtibin is in East Azerbaijan Province.
Methodology: The method of this research is the use of two quantitative models: Kobalikva and Feulet. Kobalikva's method, which emphasizes scientific, educational, economic, conservation and cultural criteria, and Feulet's model, which examines geotourism areas based on four criteria: origin of formation, geographical distribution, tourism and accessibility, was also used.
Results and findings: The results showed that based on the evaluation of the Kobalikva model, the Aras tourist region, with the highest score of 4.5, has a high potential among the studied areas. The results also showed that terraced houses, with a total score of 2.5, have the least development among the studied areas. The results of the national park model showed that among the studied areas, Arasbaran forests have the highest score of 10.25. Therefore, it is concluded that, based on the aforementioned models, the Aras and Arasbaran forests have a high potential for tourism development in East Azerbaijan Province. Finally, it is suggested that artificial intelligence tools be used in future studies to assess the ecotourism potential of the regions.

Origional Article

Investigating the role of urban management in reducing social damage in Ahvaz city

Articles in Press, Accepted Manuscript, Available Online from 20 February 2026

Masoud Safaipour, Ruholah Khodri Mir Quaid

Abstract Background and Aim: One of the concerns of urban management is the challenges caused by urban damage and its diversity and increase and its impact on social disorder and disrupting the social health of the city and citizens. Undoubtedly, according to their inherent functions, local associations can play a significant role in reducing and preventing social harm. Management is the main and life-giving factor of any organization and institution. Urban management in cities is responsible for issues related to urban life. Urban management is a process of related responsibilities and actions including policy making, planning, organizing, implementing, monitoring and controlling, which is set to achieve specific operational goals at the level of urban communities.
Methods:  This research is applied-theoretical in terms of purpose and descriptive-analytical in terms of method. The required information and data have been collected through library and field methods. SPSS software is used in this research.
Findings and Conclusion: This paper employs social damage in Ahvaz has become a worrying situation especially during the last decade. The negative function of these damages in destroying the image of the city has forced the city administration of Ahvaz to seriously intervene in the management of these damages. However, due to various plans and significant budget savings by Ahvaz municipality, the process of reducing and at least curbing social harm in this city cannot be acknowledged. The aim of the current research is to investigate the role of urban management in reducing social damage in Ahvaz city.

Article extracted from dissertations Social Planning

Predicting academic engagement based on the structure of educational spaces in schools in Harsin County

Articles in Press, Accepted Manuscript, Available Online from 22 May 2026

masumeh heydarikhaki, Ali Reza ghasemi

Abstract Background and Objective: Academic engagement, as one of the key factors in student success, encompasses various dimensions including attention, effort, and active participation. This phenomenon not only affects students' academic performance, but is also an important predictor of their future success in life and the job market. However, several factors influence the level of student engagement, the most important of which are classroom structure and academic identity.
Methodology: In this regard, the main goal of the present study is to investigate the effects of predictive indicators of academic engagement based on classroom structure and academic identity in Harsin County. The statistical population of the present study was 100 people selected as a statistical sample using the Cochran formula and studied. Data analysis was performed through correlation analysis and structural equation modeling using SPSS and Smart PLS software.
Results and Findings: The results of the study showed that the structural model has good fit, validity, and reliability based on the data. All research hypotheses were confirmed; such that classroom structure and academic identity positively and significantly predict academic engagement. In addition, the path coefficients indicated a strong and direct effect of these variables on academic engagement. Overall, the proposed model was confirmed as a strong and reliable framework for explaining the studied relationships.

Origional Article Urban Planning

Measuring physical resilience in the dilapidated urban fabric of Urmia

Articles in Press, Accepted Manuscript, Available Online from 20 February 2026

Aydin Habibzadeh Miavaghi, ahmad khalili, ali mosayyebzadeh

Abstract 1. Background and Aim
Urban deteriorated fabrics, due to physical degradation, weak infrastructure, high population density, and limited accessibility, are highly vulnerable to natural and human induced crises. These challenges complicate crisis management in such areas, emphasizing the necessity of resilience assessment. The present study aims to assess the physical resilience of District 4 in Urmia, rank its four subdistricts based on resilience levels, and propose practical strategies to reduce their vulnerability.
2. Methods and Material
This study employs a descriptive analytical approach and utilizes the Analytic Hierarchy Process (AHP) model to evaluate and rank the subdistricts. To delineate the study area, maps related to the examined indicators including building quality and age, population and building density, plot area, number of floors, construction materials, and street width were generated and analyzed using ArcGIS software. The collected data were weighted and processed using Expert Choice software.
3. Results and Discussion
The results indicate that Subdistrict 2, with a score of 0.196, has the lowest resilience and the highest vulnerability to urban crises, whereas Subdistrict 1, with a score of 0.304, benefits from more favorable physical conditions and infrastructure, exhibiting greater resilience. The key factors contributing to reduced resilience in the study area include the high age of buildings, the use of substandard materials, narrow streets, and excessive population and building density. To improve resilience, several measures have been proposed, including street network rehabilitation, structural retrofitting of buildings, urban infrastructure development, financial incentives for urban renewal, expansion of safe open spaces, and landuse revision. Implementing these strategies within a strategic planning framework, with active participation from urban management authorities, executive institutions, and local residents, can significantly enhance the physical resilience of the area and reduce its vulnerability to potential crises.

Origional Article Regional & Urban Spatial Organization

Investigating the ecotourism and geotourism capabilities of Khalkhal and Kosar counties to attract tourists using quantitative models

Articles in Press, Accepted Manuscript, Available Online from 20 February 2026

solmaz bahrami bodalalo, fariba esfandyaridarabad, Behrouz Nezafat Taklhe

Abstract Abstract
Introduction: Ecotourism and geotourism, as specialized branches of sustainable tourism, play a vital role in the conservation of natural resources and geological heritage. Ecotourism promotes responsible tourism in pristine natural environments, focusing on the conservation of biodiversity and promoting the participation of local communities. While geotourism emphasizes the identification, conservation, and scientific and educational exploitation of geosites and geomorphosites of geological value, these two complementary approaches provide a comprehensive framework for the sustainable development of natural and cultural tourism.
Research Method: In this study, the geotourism potential of ten regions was assessed using two valid methods: Facilus and Nicolas. The Facilus model, emphasizing scientific, tourism, and conservation value indicators, and the Nicolas model, with a multi-criteria approach including scientific and educational value, geological diversity, ecological and cultural value, conservation threats, and usability, provided accurate quantitative and qualitative analyses of geotourism potential.
Conclusion: In the study of prominent geotourism and ecotourism areas in the two cities of Khalkhal and Kowsar, the results showed that the Firouzabad geosite and Aznav village, by obtaining the highest scores in both models, were recognized as key areas for the development of scientific, educational geotourism and environmental protection. Also, combining data from these two models allowed for accurate identification of the strengths and weaknesses of each region and the provision of targeted management solutions to promote tourism conservation and development. This study emphasizes the need for simultaneous use of multi-criteria models for comprehensive assessment of geosites and suggests that in future studies, economic and social indicators should also be considered in order to achieve comprehensive and sustainable tourism development.

Origional Article Town and country planning (Spatial Organization)

Land use changes and simulation of urban growth and development (Case study: District 7 of Tabriz Municipality)

Articles in Press, Accepted Manuscript, Available Online from 19 February 2025

Mansour Rahmati, Hosein Nazmfar, vahid ghodousi, saide sarbaz

Abstract Abstract Background and Aim Land use change modeling is an essential tool for environmental analysis, planning, and management. Among the basic objectives of this research is to investigate and understand the changes in land uses in Region 7 of Tabriz between 2000 and 2020 using remote sensing technology and satellite images. And also to predict these changes for the next 20 years. To predict the changes, the Markov chain cell model was used for prediction. Among other objectives, it can be mentioned to find out the use that has and will have the most changes and increases.
Methodology: Land use change modeling is an essential tool for environmental analysis, planning, and management. The main objective of this research is to investigate and evaluate land use changes in Tabriz city over a 20-year period (from 2000 to 2020). This goal is achieved by extracting land use maps for the years 2000 and 2020 through satellite images and obtaining the changes that have occurred in land use during this period, and finally predicting these changes using a Markov model.
Results and Findings: The results indicated that although the region has a large area of barren land, the residential area has grown significantly between 2000 and 2020 and will continue to grow in the future. This indicates a positive and increasing trend in urban and residential areas that should be taken into account. Between 2000 and 2020, we have witnessed a sharp decrease in green space, which can be a warning for managers and decision-makers. Urban green space is an important land use within the city and on the outskirts of the city, and its absence causes environmental problems and .... Also, residential land use will have the most changes at the regional level for the next 20 years, and it was proven that the maximum likelihood classification model has appropriate accuracy for classifying satellite data.
Conclusion: The overall results showed that although the region has a large area of barren land, the residential area has grown significantly between 2000 and 2020 and will continue to grow in the future, indicating a positive and increasing trend in urban and residential areas that should be taken into account. Between 2000 and 2020, we have witnessed a sharp decline in green space, which can be a warning for managers and decision-makers. Urban green space is an important use within the city and on the outskirts of the city, and its absence causes environmental problems and .... Industrial areas have also enjoyed significant growth in the past 20 years, and the growth of this use and its positive and increasing

Article extracted from dissertations Social Planning

Explaining scenarios affecting sports with emphasis on the development of educational sports in the city of Ahvaz

Articles in Press, Accepted Manuscript, Available Online from 22 May 2026

Hamid Faramarzi, Esmaeil veisia, Seyed Hosein Marashian, Tahereh Azmsha

Abstract Background and Objective: The development of educational sports is a comprehensive and purposeful approach that uses sports activities to cultivate various dimensions of human existence. This approach is not limited to physical skills, but also focuses on personality development, emotional intelligence, social skills, and mental health. Scenarios are developed for this purpose in order to predict and prepare for future challenges and opportunities in this area.
Methodology: In this regard, the present study was conducted with the aim of examining the effectiveness scenarios of the development of educational sports in the city of Ahvaz. Which is applied in terms of purpose and descriptive-analytical in terms of method, the data collection method was library, document, and interview (with 50 experts) and using future research techniques and Micmac and Scenario wizard software.
Background and Objective: The development of educational sports is a comprehensive and purposeful approach that uses sports activities to cultivate various dimensions of human existence. This approach is not limited to physical skills, but also focuses on personality development, emotional intelligence, social skills, and mental health. Scenarios are developed for this purpose in order to predict and prepare for future challenges and opportunities in this area.
Methodology: In this regard, the present study was conducted with the aim of examining the effectiveness scenarios of the development of educational sports in the city of Ahvaz. Which is applied in terms of purpose and descriptive-analytical in terms of method, the data collection method was library, document, and interview (with 50 experts) and using future research techniques and Micmac and Scenario wizard software.
Results and Findings: First, with the participation of professors, officials, sports experts, and sports teachers, the main drivers in 6 dimensions and 45 factors were identified. Then, using the MicMac and ScenarioWizard software, the data were analyzed and effective scenarios on the development of educational sports were developed. In the present study, 45 main factors were initially identified in six different dimensions. Then, using the Mic Mac and ScenarioWizard software, 21 key drivers were selected from these factors and three main scenarios for the future were drawn. The first scenario, titled the desirable (golden) scenario, presents the best possible path, which, with a compatibility value of 5 and a total interaction score of 733, indicates a strong synergy between factors such as lifestyle and educational policies that leads to comprehensive development. In contrast, the undesirable scenario, with a negative compatibility value of 2 and a total negative interaction score of 117, depicts a future in which economic stagnation and incoherence lead to a serious regression of educational sports. The third scenario, the probable scenario (standing still), with a negative compatibility value of 1 and a total score of 45, predicts a static situation without significant progress. Finally, the results of this analysis emphasize that to achieve an ideal and sustainable future, we must focus on influential drivers in the dimensions of culture building, management, and macro-policy making to form a positive cycle in the development of educational sports.

Origional Article Urban Planning

Analysis of factors affecting urban tourism development with a futures research approach Case study: Delfan

Articles in Press, Accepted Manuscript, Available Online from 20 February 2026

hekmat amiri, beyranvandzadeh beyranvandzadeh, amir hoseinian rad

Abstract Background and Objective: This paper analyzes the factors affecting urban tourism development using a futures studies approach in Delfan County. Urban tourism, as a key aspect of global economic development, faces challenges in Iran's smaller cities where its potential is limited due to inadequate infrastructure and a lack of effective policies.
Methodology: This research adopts an applied approach in terms of purpose and a descriptive-survey method in terms of nature and research method. Employing analytical methods and expert surveys, the study identifies and examines key indicators using the MICMAC software, analyzing their mutual impacts on sustainable urban tourism development. Data collection methods include documentary (library-based) and field (questionnaire-based) research. The statistical population of this study comprises 30 experts in tourism, local authorities, and futures researchers.
Findings and Conclusion: The findings indicate that infrastructure development, the establishment of sanitary facilities, and the reduction of administrative bureaucracy are key factors in attracting tourists and increasing their satisfaction. Furthermore, ensuring safety and enhancing the sense of security in tourist areas are identified as crucial factors. Finally, the paper provides recommendations for policymakers and stakeholders to promote sustainable tourism development in Delfan County.
Background and Objective: This paper analyzes the factors affecting urban tourism development using a futures studies approach in Delfan County. Urban tourism, as a key aspect of global economic development, faces challenges in Iran's smaller cities where its potential is limited due to inadequate infrastructure and a lack of effective policies.
Methodology: This research adopts an applied approach in terms of purpose and a descriptive-survey method in terms of nature and research method. Employing analytical methods and expert surveys, the study identifies and examines key indicators using the MICMAC software, analyzing their mutual impacts on sustainable urban tourism development. Data collection methods include documentary (library-based) and field (questionnaire-based) research. The statistical population of this study comprises 30 experts in tourism, local authorities, and futures researchers.
Findings and Conclusion: The findings indicate that infrastructure development, the establishment of sanitary facilities, and the reduction of administrative bureaucracy are key factors in attracting tourists and increasing their satisfaction. Furthermore, ensuring safety and enhancing the sense of security in tourist areas are identified as crucial factors. Finally, the paper provides recommendations for policymakers and stakeholders to promote sustainable tourism development in Delfan County.

Origional Article Urban Planning

Evaluation and Ranking of Neighborhoods in Tehran's District 6 Based on the Development of Smart City Indicators and Factors Influencing Their Enhancement

Articles in Press, Accepted Manuscript, Available Online from 22 November 2025

Hosein Nazmfar, Yaser Afshon, Mohamad Mahdi Mahabadi pour

Abstract Background and Objective: The smart city, as a modern approach to urban management, aims to enhance quality of life, service efficiency, and sustainable development through advanced information technologies, citizen participation, and data-driven decision-making. This study evaluates and ranks the neighborhoods of Tehran's District 6 based on the development level of smart city indicators.
Methodology: The research is applied in nature and employs a descriptive-analytical method. Initially, smart city indicators were identified through a review of theoretical sources, followed by the development of a specialized questionnaire based on the COCOSO model. Field data were collected from 30 urban planning experts, including university professors and municipal officials, using snowball sampling. The Shannon entropy method was used to determine the weight of each indicator, and the COCOSO decision-making model was applied to rank the neighborhoods.
Results and Findings: Results indicate that Neighborhood 4, with a score of 5.442, ranks first, followed by Neighborhood 5 (5.411) and Neighborhood 6 (5.118) in second and third places, respectively. Neighborhoods 3, 1, and 2 rank fourth to sixth with scores of 4.099, 3.322, and 1.447, respectively. The findings suggest that balanced smart city development in this district requires targeted policymaking, enhanced digital infrastructure, and leveraging local capacities in each neighborhood.
Conclusion: These results highlight that utilizing local advantages, particularly in lower-performing neighborhoods, can significantly contribute to improving smart city indicators and reducing spatial inequalities.

Origional Article Regional & Urban Spatial Organization

Potential assessment of geotourism development in protected areas of the eastern slopes of Sabalan with a hybrid approach

Articles in Press, Accepted Manuscript, Available Online from 19 February 2025

Behrouz Nezafat Taklhe, mirhamid seyed mosavi, soneya zolgadrkhazineh, solmaz bahrami bodalalo

Abstract Introduction: Geotourism is a branch of sustainable tourism that focuses on the geological features and natural landscapes of an area. Tourism has various forms and types that are related to geography and tourism. The purpose of this research is to assess the potential for the development of geotourism in the protected areas of the eastern slopes of Sabalan.
Research Method: This research aimed to identify and prioritize the components of geotourism development in the protected areas of the eastern slopes of Sabalan. Qualitative data were analyzed using ATLAS.ti software and 17 codes were extracted under 4 main themes including education and empowerment, management and infrastructure challenges, local participation and sustainable development, and regional identification and branding. For quantitative analysis and ranking of these components, Friedman's nonparametric test was used with the participation of 278 respondents.
Results: The test results showed that there was a significant difference in importance between the components, such that "local participation and indigenous values" had the highest priority, followed by education, environmental awareness, and human resource empowerment. The findings emphasize the need to focus on active community participation, continuous education, scientific management, and strategic planning to achieve sustainable and balanced geotourism development. This study can be a practical guide for policymakers and managers in the tourism and environmental sectors to promote the status of geotourism in protected areas.

Origional Article Sustainable Regional Development

Mutual Impacts of Inflation and Economic Development in Iran and Iraq: A Data-Based Analysis

Articles in Press, Accepted Manuscript, Available Online from 22 May 2026

Seyed Kamal Sadeghi, Kawther Jawad Yousif

Abstract Introduction and Objective: Inflation, as one of the most significant economic variables, has profound effects on the economic development process of countries. This study examines the mutual impacts of inflation and aspects of economic development in Iran and Iraq, aiming to analyze the relationships between the inflation rate and various economic variables such as production, agriculture, industry, dependency, education, and health.
Method: This study analyzes the impact of inflation on different dimensions of economic development using long-term data from 1990 to 2024 for both countries. The data were collected from reliable sources such as the World Bank and were evaluated using tests like the Dickey-Fuller test, Johansen cointegration test, and Granger causality test to assess the relationships between the variables. Regression models were also employed to examine the effects of inflation on each dimension of economic development.
Findings: The results indicate that all economic indicators in both countries are stationary, and there are significant relationships between the inflation rate and economic variables. In Iran, an increase in the inflation rate is associated with a slight increase in GDP, but it has considerable negative effects on the agriculture, health, and education sectors. In Iraq, inflation is considered a driver of economic growth, although its negative effects on health and education are also evident.
Conclusion: This research emphasizes that controlling inflation can contribute to improving economic conditions and achieving sustainable development in Iran and Iraq. Furthermore, the findings of this study can serve as a valuable reference for policymakers and economic analysts in formulating effective strategies for inflation management and supporting economic growth. Given the profound impact of inflation fluctuations on human and economic development, further research is necessary to gain a better understanding of these complex relationships.

Origional Article Social Planning

Analysis of the Social Consequences of Blue Economy Development with an Emphasis on the Smart Comparative Advantage Approach in the Makran Coast

Articles in Press, Accepted Manuscript, Available Online from 20 February 2026

Yaghob Abdali, Maryam Rasouli

Abstract Maritime development is recognized as a key approach for enhancing economic growth and social welfare in coastal regions, especially in the Makran coast. This paper, using a theoretical-documentary methodology, analyzes the social impacts of maritime development with an emphasis on the smart specialization approach. Smart specialization, which focuses on identifying the unique capacities and advantages of each region, can serve as an effective strategy for guiding sustainable development and social justice. Findings indicate that the Makran coast, with economic advantages such as maritime transportation, fisheries, energy, and tourism, possesses significant potential to generate employment, improve public services, and increase social participation of local communities. However, challenges such as inequality in access to basic services, widespread poverty, high unemployment rates, unmanaged migration, and weak social capital hinder the realization of balanced and sustainable development. Maritime development without adequate attention to social dimensions and local participation may exacerbate regional disparities, increase informal settlements, and cause resource degradation. In this context, the smart specialization approach, by emphasizing community empowerment, endogenous innovation, and equitable distribution of benefits, can reduce negative impacts and strengthen positive outcomes. Accordingly, policymakers should pursue development pathways that are economically successful as well as socially just and inclusive by establishing mechanisms for community participation, comprehensive social impact assessments, and fair resource allocation. This paper provides a theoretical and analytical framework for maritime development policy in the Makran coast, which could serve as a model for other maritime regions in the country.

Origional Article Regional & Urban Spatial Organization

Analyzing Land Surface Temperature and Its Relationship with Spectral Indices Using Remote Sensing Data (A Case Study of Firouzkouh County)

Articles in Press, Accepted Manuscript, Available Online from 22 November 2025

Zahra Sharifi

Abstract Background and Objective: In this study, a combination of remote sensing data, the Google Earth Engine (GEE) platform, statistical analyses, and Geographic Information System (GIS) was used to examine the trends in land use/land cover changes, vegetation cover, and land surface temperature (LST) over the past decade (2013–2024) in Firouzkouh County.
Methodology: Google Earth Engine (GEE), as a powerful cloud-based processing platform, provides access to a wide range of satellite datasets such as MODIS and Landsat, along with various tools for spatio-temporal analysis. To generate land surface temperature (LST) maps, the MODIS MOD11A2.061 product was used, and annual as well as decadal average LST maps were extracted. The results indicated an increase in land surface temperature in certain areas, particularly around urban zones and agricultural lands. Additionally, to assess changes in vegetation cover, the Normalized Difference Vegetation Index (NDVI) derived from Landsat and MODIS imagery was utilized. Correlation analysis between NDVI and LST was conducted using SPSS software.
Results and Findings: The results of these analyses revealed a generally inverse relationship between NDVI and LST across most areas; regions with denser vegetation cover experienced lower land surface temperatures. This finding highlights the significant role of vegetation in mitigating surface heat through processes such as evapotranspiration and shading. Subsequently, zonation maps and spatial analyses were conducted using ArcGIS, Excel, and SPSS software, allowing for the identification of critical areas experiencing either vegetation decline or temperature increase. It is recommended that future studies incorporate additional indices such as the Vegetation Condition Index (VCI), Temperature Condition Index (TCI), and Vegetation Health Index (VHI) for a more detailed assessment of drought and vegetation health. Furthermore, the use of higher spatial resolution data, such as Sentinel-2 imagery, along with machine learning algorithms like Random Forest or Support Vector Machine (SVM) within the GEE environment, can enhance the accuracy of analyses and facilitate more precise identification of complex environmental patterns.

Origional Article Urban Planning

Evaluating the Role of Physical Indicators of Neighborhoods on Citizens’ Sense of Security: A Case Study of Alishtar City

Articles in Press, Accepted Manuscript, Available Online from 22 May 2026

Ayat Rashnoofar, Moslem Arefi, Javad Yosefvand

Abstract Today, the expansion of urbanization and the city becoming the primary habitat for humans have led to urban planners focusing mainly on enhancing the quality of urban life in all its dimensions. Among these, one of the most crucial dimensions is fostering a sense of security in urban spaces, which has always played a significant role as a psycho-social phenomenon in citizens’ experience of the urban environment. Therefore, appropriate planning to increase urban security is an undeniable necessity in urban planning.Consequently, the main objective of the present research is to examine the extent to which physical factors and neighborhood structures influence citizens’ sense of security in Alashtar city, and to propose solutions for eliminating insecurity factors and enhancing citizens’ sense of security. Thus, the research method is descriptive-analytical, based on a questionnaire with a sample size of 384 individuals, selected using the random cluster sampling method.Furthermore, 9 components were used to assess citizens’ sense of security, and 19 components were used to examine the physical factors. For analyzing the obtained data in both statistical and graphical sections, SPSS and GIS software were utilized.The research findings indicated that the sense of security at the neighborhood level in Alashtar city is at a low level (t = -15.43). In terms of the scores for physical security indicators as well (-1.428), the city is in an unfavorable condition. Therefore, it can be stated that there is a significant relationship between physical factors and citizens’ sense of security in Alashtar city, and the physical conditions have proven effective in influencing the level of citizens’ sense of security.

Origional Article Rural Tourism

Analysis of the Role of Geotourism Components in the Economic Development of the Villages of Hashtjin County (Case Study: Barandaq, Kazaj, and Nemehil)

Articles in Press, Accepted Manuscript, Available Online from 22 November 2025

Seyed Ali Mortazavi

Abstract Background and Objective: In recent years, geotourism, as a branch of sustainable tourism, has attracted increasing attention, especially in rural areas with geomorphological diversity. This type of tourism can contribute to the economic and social development of local communities by enhancing scientific awareness, preserving geological resources, and strengthening local cultural identity. Despite its natural potential, geotourism in Iran has not yet been fully developed. Khalkhal County (specifically the Hashtjin region) in the south of Ardabil Province, due to its geomorphological attractions, has significant potential in this field. The aim of this study is to analyze the role of geotourism components in the economic development of three villages: Barandaq, Kazaj, and Namehil.
Methodology: This applied research was conducted using a mixed-method approach (quantitative–qualitative). Data were collected through library research, field observations, and geomorphological tools. The statistical population included 30 tourists and 15 experts, selected purposefully from the three villages of Barandaq, Kazaj, and Namehil. The main data collection tools were two structured questionnaires based on the models of Kubalikova and Feuillet. Spatial data were gathered using geological and topographic maps, GPS, and satellite images, and analyzed using ArcGIS, Excel, and SPSS software.
Results and Findings: According to the Kubalikova model, Kazaj village, with a score of 10.25, possesses the highest geotourism potential among the studied villages due to its outstanding scientific and educational features. Namehil ranked second with a score of 10.00, owing to its strong economic and cultural indicators, while Barandaq, with a score of 9.25, ranked third due to weaknesses in conservation indicators. The Feuillet model results also confirmed Kazaj’s superiority; this village received the highest scores in management rate (0.75) and tourism rate (0.62). Data comparison showed that Kazaj offers a favorable combination of geographic diversity, accessibility, relative conservation, and cultural values, while Namehil and Barandaq, despite their natural capacities, require improvement in terms of management and infrastructure. The simultaneous use of both analytical models provides a more accurate perspective on the geotourism status and economic development potential of these villages.
Conclusion: The study results showed that geotourism contributes to the economic development of rural areas only when accompanied by scientific management, sustainable conservation, and cultural utilization. The mere presence of geological attractions is not sufficient; management plays a decisive role. Kazaj was identified as the most successful model due to its integration of scientific, cultural, and infrastructural components. In contrast, Namehil and Barandaq have not fully utilized their potentials due to managerial shortcomings. The application of the Kubalikova and Fiolet models can serve as a foundation for targeted planning and conservation in rural geotourism.

Article extracted from thesis Rural Planning

Quantitative and Qualitative Analysis of Land Use Changes in Recent Decades and Their Impact on the Socio-Economic Structure of Rural Areas in Shush

Articles in Press, Accepted Manuscript, Available Online from 20 February 2026

Shima Salemizadeh, Bizhan Rahmani, Pegah Moridsadat

Abstract Land use changes represent one of the fundamental challenges in rural areas, exerting profound impacts on socio-economic structures and the environment. Shush County, as one of the most important agricultural hubs in Khuzestan Province, has witnessed significant transformations in land use patterns in recent decades. These changes primarily stem from industrial agricultural development, climate change, and economic shifts, which have had extensive consequences on settlement systems and rural livelihoods. The current study was conducted to quantitatively and qualitatively analyze these transformations and examine their effects on rural communities. This research investigates land use changes and their impacts on rural settlements in Shush County during the period from 1990 to 2023. The findings reveal that rain-fed agricultural areas in Chenaneh, Seyed Abbas, and Sorkheh districts have increased to 212.36, 188.47, and 182.34 square kilometers respectively, while rangelands have experienced a 35% decline. Spatial analyses (Moran's I=0.68) confirm a clustered pattern of changes in the western part of the county. Questionnaire data (n=200) indicate that 86% of respondents consider water scarcity as the primary factor driving changes in cropping patterns. CA-Markov modeling, with 91.2% accuracy, predicts an additional 18.1% reduction in dense vegetation by 2036. The results demonstrate that the development of industrial crops such as sugarcane has coincided with 36.3% urban expansion, while remote villages (>5km from rivers) have experienced a 42% population decline. This study confirms the necessity for location-specific strategies, including the development of drought-resistant crops in the western regions and the enhancement of orchards in the eastern parts of the county.

Origional Article Urban Planning

Evaluation of the factors affecting good urban governance (Case study: Ardabil city)

Articles in Press, Accepted Manuscript, Available Online from 22 November 2025

Mohammad Hasan Yazdani, Alireza Mohammadi

Abstract Urban management must respond to the trends of change in the city and its citizens. In such a way that its strategic actions are commensurate with urban issues and its developments. In this regard, what has always been neglected in the process of urban management in the country is the discussion of desirable urban governance. Accordingly, the study examines the components affecting desirable urban governance. The present study is applied in terms of its purpose and descriptive-analytical in terms of its method, which is classified as a dependency study. The statistical population of the study is the citizens of Ardabil city. The sample size was estimated using the Cochran formula at 384 people. The data collection tool is based on two library and survey methods (questionnaire). In this regard, the questionnaire was distributed and completed among the citizens using a simple random sampling method. In order to evaluate the impact of each of the variables affecting desirable urban governance, 6 components (participation, legality, accountability and responsibility, justice-centeredness, collective agreement, transparency) were used. LISREL and SPSS software were also used to analyze the data. The results of the one-sample T-test showed that all the components under study are among the factors affecting desirable urban governance because the test results of all variables were positive and scored more than the median (3). The significance level of the variables was also observed to be less than 0.05, so the research hypothesis was confirmed at a level of 95%. Considering that all the components under study had a factor load of more than 0.4, the results of the path coefficient (β) indicate positive relationships between the research variables. Also, the value of the RMSEA index coefficient was equal to (0.72) and the chi-square coefficient was obtained (42.39), so it can be claimed that the research model shows good and desirable fit.

Origional Article

Feasibility Analysis and Optimal Location of Nomadic Organization and Development Centers in Jahrom County

Articles in Press, Accepted Manuscript, Available Online from 20 February 2026

farhad khabazi, Abdolhamid Karimi, Mohammadreza Kargar, Elmira Asadi-Fard, Mohammad Ebrahim Keshavarz, Saeid Salehi, Amir Bayat Shahparast

Abstract Background and Objective: The nomadic community is one of the important cultural, social, and historical structures in our country. It plays a significant and important role in social structures. In recent years, the trend of organizating and developing (Sedentarism or Sedentary lifestyle) the nomadic community, aimed at improving lifestyle conditions, welfare and accessing educational and healthcare services, enhancing and improving security, reducing ethnic conflicts, and protecting the environment, has gained the attention of policymakers. This research purpose is identified and found the best locations for settling two nomadic tribes (the nomadic area of Dasht Kalalaki Bonko Esfandiarloo and Bonko Alimardani) in the Jahrom County of Fars Province, by utilizing the Weighted Linear Combination (WLC) multi-criteria decision-making model.
Methodology: For spatial analysis section, various criteria were examined, including elevation, slope, geographical orientation, geology, distance from water resources, vegetation cover, land use, distance from nomadic routes and camping sites, flood-prone areas, and other environmental factors. Spatial data were analyzed, and maps of the effective criteria were prepared. After weighing, the layers affecting nomadic organization and development (settlement) sites were integrated, ultimately resulting in the development of a map for locating nomadic organization and development sites in Jahrom County (Kalalaki area). Then, by utilzing the socio-economic factors and the foresight of the nomadic areas, the proposed land area was assigned for the present (1403) and the future (1430) of these two sites.
Findings and Conclusion: The results of this research were considered two optimal places for the organization and development (settlement) of two Bonko from the same tribe in the nomadic area of the Kalalaki area of Jahrom city with the proposed areas of dedicated land for the present (1403) and the future (1430). These findings can be used as a practical tool in development planning and management decisions at the level of Fars province.

Origional Article Sustainable Urban Development

Application of the Internet of Things in controlling urban vehicle transportation on highways for the purpose of urban development and management.

Articles in Press, Accepted Manuscript, Available Online from 22 November 2025

Reza Etebari, Seyed Hassan Sadeghzadeh

Abstract Introduction: In recent years, a new computing paradigm called the Internet of Things has emerged. The use of the Internet of Things in vehicle networks introduces a new technology for communication between vehicles. The Internet of Things, with smart technologies, connects vehicles with the real and digital world. The Internet of Things collects, generates, processes, analyzes, and manages information in the field of vehicle transportation using advanced technologies in line with sustainable urban development. The use of this technology in public vehicles improves the ability of vehicles in urban transportation and saves transportation time, fuel, people's time, and also reduces greenhouse gases.
Methods and Material: n this paper, a proposal is presented for sustainable urban development for vehicle transportation in large environments. In the proposed method, all vehicles in the considered environment are clustered based on a criterion to control vehicles to prevent traffic jams. First, each vehicle is equipped with sensors that have the power to receive, process, and transmit data from one vehicle to another. By equipping each vehicle with a sensor, the vehicle is able to receive speed, data, and other information from other vehicles and also has the power to transmit it to other vehicles. After equipping the vehicles with sensors, clustering is performed based on the speed of the vehicles. In each cluster, a vehicle with an average speed is selected as the cluster head from among the cluster members. The cluster head is responsible for controlling the cluster members and if the members exceed the specified speed, they are transferred to another cluster.
Conclusion: Experiments show that the proposed method significantly reduces fuel consumption, transportation time, and air pollution compared to the normal mode by controlling vehicle speed. Ultimately, it contributes to the development and sustainability of the city by reducing greenhouse gases.

Article extracted from dissertations Urban Planning

Investigating the Effect of Construction of Subway System on Land Supply Pattern (Case Study: Golshahr Metro Station, Karaj)

Articles in Press, Accepted Manuscript, Available Online from 20 February 2026

amirhoushang rajabi kalvani, Esmaeil rajabi kalvani, shahbakhti rostami

Abstract The present study has been evaluated in the form of two parts: inferential statistics and multi-criteria decision-making. The pattern governing the research is strategic in terms of approach; cognitive in terms of nature; applied in terms of purpose; descriptive-analytical in terms of method; cross-sectional in terms of time; and quantitative and qualitative in terms of data type. Considering the research questions, which are of the cause-effect type, four hypotheses were introduced. The statistical population of the study includes residents of the Golshahr neighborhood of Karaj, and the Cochran formula was used to determine the sample size using an online calculation method, and it was determined as 384 people. Also, 20 experts were consulted for the multi-criteria decision-making section. In the first step, the importance of the criteria of building and space quality, accessibility, desirability of environmental landscapes, economic benefit, and land value were determined and ranked based on the votes of citizens living in the Golshahr neighborhood of Karaj. Based on the Likert spectrum coefficient and identification of the indicators affecting them, the criterion of space and building quality was ranked first, which is due to the importance of the indicators of "overall satisfaction with infrastructure facilities and neighborhood relations" in the Golshahr neighborhood; while the index of the impact of the metro on commercial use is also of the greatest importance from the perspective of the respondents. Also, examining the hypotheses using a one-sample t-test showed that in the four aforementioned criteria, the positive effect of the construction of a 45-meter metro station on the surrounding areas can be seen in the Golshahr neighborhood of Karaj. In the next step, the elements affecting the integration of the effectiveness of public transport systems and related land areas and uses were evaluated using the Analytic Hierarchy Process technique to prioritize criteria and indicators. Based on the results, transport, economic, social and environmental criteria are of the highest to lowest importance, respectively.

Article extracted from thesis Regional & urban planning

Assessment of the Impact of the Civil War on Land Use Change in Salah al-Din Province, Iraq, Using Satellite Imagery and a Post-War Planning Approach

Articles in Press, Accepted Manuscript, Available Online from 22 November 2025

Ali Mohammed Fadhil, Abolfazl Ghanbari, Khalil Valizadeh Kamran

Abstract Due to its strategic location, rich resources and ethnic diversity, Salah al-Din Province in northern Iraq has been a hotbed of conflict over the past decades, with the current land system having an impact in this context. Our study therefore aims to investigate and assess the impact of civil war on the land system in the province of Salah al-Din, by using the RS and GIS techniques. In this study, the Land Use and Land Cover (LULC) map of the region was extracted for pre-war, war and post-war years by means of the support vector machine (SVM) technique, and using three years of Landsat 8 satellite images: 2013, 2015 and 2017. Furthermore, land change modeler (LCM) was used to analyze the changes over time and the patterns of the LULCC. According to the research findings, we observed a decrease in the extent of built-up, forest, and water bodies, along with an increase in barren land, vegetation and orchards, and agricultural land, during the war. On the other hand, ending the war has led to a reduction in the extent of barren lands, forest, and water bodies in the region, while increasing the area of built-up lands, vegetation, and agricultural lands. In this regard, our results showed that insurgents have utilized agricultural lands as one of their tools in the war against government, while the destruction of buildings has been observed following the escalation of the war. Our results indicate the infrastructural and demographic vulnerability to war, and the post-war landscape necessitates recovery and reconstruction policies resulting from the conflict that must be taken into account.

Origional Article Urban Environment

Providing a suitable option to improve the waste management situation in terms of productivity, economy and environment (case study of Mahabad city)

Articles in Press, Accepted Manuscript, Available Online from 20 February 2026

Awat Ahmadi

Abstract Urban solid waste management is a multifaceted process in its general sense and has different components. The way waste is contained should also be such that it can be used to advance economic, environmental, social and sustainable development goals. In this regard, the aim of this study is to determine the best waste disposal methods in accordance with the current conditions of Mahabad city by providing a waste management system model. Therefore, the main objective of this research is to help optimize the Solid Waste Management System of Mahabad.
The status of Mahabad Waste Management in terms of the quantity and quality of waste and how it is managed in each of the stages of Solid Waste Management is examined and the model of Solid Waste Management System is presented according to economic and environmental criteria. The research method is descriptive, analytical, and the method of collecting information in the form of a library was a field in the municipal areas. The results of this study show that the waste management situation in Mahabad was not favorable in its various stages, but due to the potential, a large part of the problems facing it can be solved by taking basic management measures. Research also showed that reducing waste production and separation from Origin are among the waste management practices that have high efficiency.

Article extracted from thesis Sustainable Urban Development

Moral hazard analysis in national insurance using quantile regression and machine learning algorithms: A step towards economic sustainability

Articles in Press, Accepted Manuscript, Available Online from 20 February 2026

Somaye Ashayeri, Mahdi Moradi, Sima Eskandari Sabzi, Roghayeh Hasanzadeh

Abstract malpractice or opportunistic behavior of policyholders is one of the fundamental challenges of the insurance industry. Malpractice occurs when the insurance company's claim rate increases due to consumer behavior, in other words, the insurance company incurs more costs than expected. Malpractice increases costs, reduces efficiency, and disrupts market equilibrium. The present study aims to identify and analyze the impact of specific characteristics of insurance fields (such as contract design and risk assessment complexity) on malpractice in the Iranian insurance industry during the years 1376 to 1401. The research is of an applied and descriptive-analytical type. Decision tree and artificial neural network models were used to estimate malpractice, and the receiver operating characteristic curve was used to validate the results. In this study, it is assumed that specific characteristics of insurance fields can exacerbate behaviors leading to malpractice. To eliminate the scale effect of variables and to compare the regression coefficients of the claims data of fourteen insurance lines, they were standardized using Z-score. The findings showed that the fire and life insurance lines are most likely to cause malpractice due to their specific characteristics, such as the complexity of risk assessment and financial incentives. Validation of the results indicates the accuracy of the estimates and the high accuracy of the models used. Therefore, it is more necessary and recommended to improve professional ethics and risk management in these lines. Designing smart contracts, using digital claims assessment systems, and reviewing the tariff structure in a discipline-oriented manner should be on the agenda of insurance institutions and policymakers in these lines.

Origional Article Urban Management

Explaining the Causes and Consequences of Rural-Urban Migration in Maragheh County with an Emphasis on Sustainable Development

Articles in Press, Accepted Manuscript, Available Online from 20 February 2026

Ahmad Kazemi, Ali Azar

Abstract 1. Introduction
One of the main challenges of urban management is population imbalances and inappropriate population distribution at the level of metropolitan areas. The aim of the present study was to identify the causes and consequences of rural-to-urban migration in Maragheh city from the perspective of rural migrants in this city.
2. Methods and Material
This was done using a descriptive-analytical method and a survey method. The statistical population of the study included all residents of the marginal areas of Maragheh city who had migrated and settled in this neighborhood for at least 4 years, of which 384 migrant residents were determined as the sample size. These samples were selected using a simple random method. To assess the effects of rural-to-urban migration, three important and fundamental parts of repulsion, attraction, and migration outcomes were used.
3. Results and Discussion
. The results of the study show that among the repulsive factors of the economic sustainability of villages, the factor of "the absence of an agricultural Jihad service center in the village along with the limited seasonality of jobs in the village" has the greatest impact. Among the reasons for the social sustainability of the origin, the lack of welfare facilities and the lack of recreational facilities were the most agreed upon among the studied samples.
4. Conclusion
The inappropriateness of the communication routes of the villages and the low possibility of accessing technical and educational facilities in the villages were identified as the most important factors for the physical sustainability of the origin, according to the migrants. The existence of job diversity, the right to choose, and the permanence of work in the city were the main economic attractions of the city for the rural migrants of Maragheh. All the social attractions of the destination are of high importance to them in terms of the research samples, and the factor "those who live in the city are more respected among their families" has the least importance compared to other social attractions. Among the reasons for the physical attractions of the destination, "access to welfare facilities in the city" had the most impact in terms of the research samples. The most important economic consequence of migration was the loss of their land in the village. The most important social consequences of migration from the village to the city, according to the research samples, was the better development of children in the city than in the village. The most important physical consequence of migration from rural to urban areas, according to the research samples, was the possibility of greater use of health and medical facilities in the city.

Origional Article Sustainable Urban Development

Evaluation and Assessment physical stability with an emphasis on housing index (Case Study Metropolis of Ahvaz)

Articles in Press, Accepted Manuscript, Available Online from 20 February 2026

Zahra Abdolahi, Toran Ahmadi

Abstract Urban sustainability is a concept that seeks sustainable development in the world as a model of a new word was introduced the roots of dissatisfaction with the attitude of sustainable development with resource development and physical growth, economic and social returns in the cities of Landscape ecology the population increase in recent years cities have faced physical expansion so the world in which we live is constantly changing, so having a system to coordinate planning between the housing and construction sector with other sectors and between the components that create the (land transport systems, etc.) with infrastructure, public facilities, social services, etc. is an absolute necessity the study aims to identify and evaluate the sustainability of the city housing index in Ahvaz Metropolis is studied the study has a 'development - functional "and a combination of research methods" descriptive, analytical, field and library “ It should be noted in this study, the spatial approach in the form of TOPSIS model using 24 variables in the index composition is used.Finally, to analyze the results of software ArcGIS, VISIO, GRAFER, EXCEL and other programs is required based on the results for the one-dimensional variables and physical development status of Ahvaz during the studied period, showing the vast differences in the eight urban area.
Finally, based on TOPSIS statistics statistical average of 0.379 percent region with TOPSIS 0.583 percent to 0.184 percent, the highest and the lowest was fifth district.It is based on the results zones two, three, four and a TOPSIS amount higher than average Therefore, attention and planning in housing indicator system, in the eight urban districts of Ahvaz is necessary

Origional Article Urban Planning

Feasibility study of establishing a smart city in Ardabil

Articles in Press, Accepted Manuscript, Available Online from 19 February 2025

Mohammad Hassan Yazdani, Delavar Masoumi

Abstract Background and Objective:. Today, most cities in the world are exposed to many crises, including environmental crises, demographic changes, physical-economic problems, poverty, lack of urban services, etc. The complex urban environment has forced thoughtful people to think about reforming and creating new urban structures in order to get rid of problems and shortcomings in achieving the highest level of life. Based on this, urban managers and planners have considered making the city smart as a necessity to remove obstacles in cities and improve life in them. A smart city is a multidimensional phenomenon that encompasses various indicators.
Methodology: This article attempts to review the concepts of smart city, its components and indicators for the city of Ardabil and analyze them. It is done through semi-structured interviews with experts and managers of 22 people in the municipality of Ardabil using random sampling methodand also through a questionnaire of Ardabil citizens using Cochran sampling method with 384 people, and the final extracted indicators were examined in the form of SWOT model.
Results and findings: The result of the position of the smart city in Ardabil city is that out of the four states of aggressive, conservative, defensive and competitive, it is in the worst possible state, that is, defensive (the confrontation of weakness and threat). It is also weak in terms of internal factors (strengths and weaknesses) and has not shown suitable conditions against external factors (opportunities and threats). According to the studies, the internal factor matrix (IE) was 0.86 and the external factor matrix (EFE) was 0.74, which is a long way from equilibrium and indicates the inappropriate position of Ardabil city from the perspective of a smart city.
Keywords: Smart city, smart city index, Swot model , Ardebil city

Article extracted from dissertations Urban Planning

Evaluation of the role of cultural activities of municipalities on promoting public culture (case study of Naqadeh city)

Articles in Press, Accepted Manuscript, Available Online from 19 February 2025

Saeed Mosapour, Robab Hossienzadeh, Reza Ghaderi

Abstract Since citizenship is one of the key concepts in understanding and describing the position and condition of today's human being, it demands that the needs of this position be answered through a chain of cultural and educational activities. The main purpose of the research is to evaluate the role of cultural activities of municipalities on the promotion of public culture (case study of Naqadeh city).
The current research has been done based on the descriptive-analytical method. Two steps have been used to collect and analyze information. The first step is to collect the required information and data using studies and authentic library documents and the second step is to use a questionnaire compiled by the researcher, the statistical population of the city of Naqdeh 81598. The number and size of the sample is 382 based on Cochran's formula. Inferential operations have been performed using Excel and SPSS software, and frequency tables and T-test statistical techniques have been used to describe and analyze them.
The findings indicate that the first hypothesis with the total average of indicators equal to 4.36. And the second hypothesis with the average of all indicators is equal to 4.50.
The results show that it is very necessary to try to develop cultural infrastructures and create cultural centers and community centers and use the resources to operationalize cultural and social programs

Article extracted from dissertations Urban Planning

Spatial Analysis of the Distribution of Diabetic Patients and High-Risk Clusters: A Case Study of Abotaleb Neighborhood, Ardabil

Articles in Press, Accepted Manuscript, Available Online from 20 July 2025

Bita Nazari, Alireza Mohammadi, Mansour Rahmati, Roya Moghabeli

Abstract Abstract

Background and Objective: Diabetes is a major chronic non-communicable disease with growing global and national prevalence, imposing substantial burdens on healthcare systems and negatively affecting patients' quality of life. As a modern analytical approach, spatial analysis offers valuable insights into the geographic distribution of diseases and supports the development of targeted interventions. This study aims to fill a gap in neighborhood-scale research by employing advanced spatial tools to explore the spatial distribution of diabetes, emphasizing equity in access to healthcare services.

Methodology: This applied, descriptive-analytical research examined the spatial and temporal distribution of diabetic cases in the Abotaleb neighborhood of Ardabil between 2018 and 2022. Data from 235 patients recorded at the local health center were analyzed using Google Maps and ArcGIS. The study utilized techniques such as Kernel Density Estimation, Hot Spot Analysis (Getis-Ord Gi*), Average Nearest Neighbor (ANN), and proximity analysis.

Findings and Conclusion: The results indicated that the spatial distribution of diabetic patients followed a clustered pattern, with the highest concentration observed in the central and southern parts of the neighborhood, comprising approximately 30% of all patients. In the later years of the study, the clusters expanded toward the northern and western areas. The hot spot analysis showed that about 5% of patients were located in zones with 99% confidence, 10% in 95% confidence zones, and 15% in 90% confidence zones. Additionally, nearly 25% of patients were found in cold spots, indicating areas of lower patient density. Proximity and spatial neighborhood analyses revealed that some areas faced significant limitations in access to healthcare services. Age was also identified as a key variable contributing to the formation of spatial clusters. These findings underscore the need for revisiting the location of healthcare facilities and incorporating spatial analysis into health policy planning.

Origional Article Urban Planning

Evaluating the consequences of renovation in deteriorated urban fabrics, case study: Bagherabad neighborhood of Rasht city.

Articles in Press, Accepted Manuscript, Available Online from 03 August 2025

Nazila Banaei, Asghar Shokrgozar, Esmaeil Nasiri Hendehkhaleh

Abstract Background and Aim: One of the challenges arising from rapid urbanization is the phenomenon of urban decay. Such deteriorated areas consistently pose major challenges for urban management due to the numerous problems faced by their residents. Therefore, urban renewal in these areas is of critical importance. This study examines the impacts of renewal efforts in the deteriorated neighborhood of Bagherabad.
Method and Materials: The statistical population of this research includes 5,514 households in Bagherabad (based on 2016 census data). To determine the sample size, Cochran's sampling method was used, resulting in a sample of 360 households. Based on prior studies, relevant indicators were selected, and a questionnaire was designed accordingly. Fieldwork was conducted to collect data. SPSS software was used for data analysis. Descriptive statistics such as mean, frequency percentage, and standard deviation were utilized. For statistical analysis, the Sign Test and Chi-Square Test were applied. Additionally, the Friedman Test was used to classify and prioritize the impact levels.
Findings and Discussion: According to the results, urban renewal in Bagherabad had the greatest positive impact on the economic dimension. The physical and social dimensions ranked second and third respectively. The environmental dimension showed the lowest level of impact.In other words, urban renewal in the Bagherabad neighborhood has led to improvements in economic and physical components. However, social and environmental dimensions have not seen significant improvement and remain in an undesirable state. It is worth noting that all dimensions, except the physical aspect, are statistically significant with a confidence level of 95%.

Origional Article Regional & Urban Spatial Organization

Landslide Risk Analysis and Assessment Using the Analytical Network Process (ANP) Model (Case Study: Siah Roud Watershed, Guilan Province)

Articles in Press, Accepted Manuscript, Available Online from 03 August 2025

Zahra Sharifi

Abstract Background and Objective: Landslides are among the most common natural hazards, causing extensive economic, environmental, and human losses. This study aims to assess and map landslide susceptibility in the Siah Rud watershed located in Gilan Province, using a hybrid approach that integrates the Analytic Network Process (ANP) model with Geographic Information Systems (GIS).
Methodology: This applied, descriptive-analytical research utilizes the ANP model within the GIS environment to delineate landslide hazard zones in the Siah Rud watershed. Ten influential factors were selected for the analysis: land use, elevation, slope, slope aspect, vegetation cover, precipitation, geological formations, and distances from roads, rivers, and faults. The relevant thematic layers were derived using various data sources, including DEMs, Landsat 8 and Sentinel-2 satellite imagery, geological maps, and precipitation maps. Analytical tools in ArcGIS were employed to extract certain layers, such as distance from rivers and roads. The ANP model, which surpasses AHP in modeling interdependencies between criteria, was used for weighting and final analysis.
Results and Findings: According to the ANP weighting results, the variables with the highest influence on landslide occurrence were slope (0.27), geological formations (0.24), and precipitation (0.16). Spatial analysis further revealed that areas with steep slopes, weak volcanic and sedimentary formations, high rainfall, and proximity to faults and rivers had greater instability potential. In contrast, regions with dense vegetation, forest land use, and significant distances from roads and faults showed higher stability. The final GIS-based hazard zonation map classified the area into five risk levels, with 36% of the watershed falling into high and very high hazard zones. These high-risk areas were primarily concentrated in the upstream parts of the watershed, where the combination of steep topography, high rainfall, sparse vegetation, and unstable geological conditions contributes to widespread landslide susceptibility.

Origional Article Regional & Urban Spatial Organization

Strategic analysis of the position of neighborhood-based planning in achieving neighborhood development and sustainable urban development using SWOT and QSPM methods (case study: Khaf city)

Articles in Press, Accepted Manuscript, Available Online from 16 August 2025

soheyla pourkarim, Esmail Safaralizadeh

Abstract Rapid urbanization and unbalanced urban development, especially in developing countries, have led to the formation of neighborhoods with inefficient textures, reduced quality of life, weakening of social capital, and residential instability. In such circumstances, traditional top-down planning is unable to respond to the diverse needs of neighborhoods. In contrast, neighborhood-based planning, emphasizing public participation, optimal use of social, human, and natural capital, and paying attention to the specific characteristics of each neighborhood, has been proposed as a new approach to achieving sustainable urban development. Despite the effectiveness of this approach, neighborhood-based planning has not yet found an established position in many Iranian cities, including Khaf City. This study uses the SWOT model and QSPM matrix to strategically analyze urban sustainability in the Laj neighborhood of Khaf City.The research method is descriptive-analytical and based on a field survey (questionnaire and semi-structured interviews), and the statistical population includes neighborhood residents and urban experts. The results showed that despite the existence of social capital, the neighborhood faces structural weaknesses, spatial inequality, and threats such as social anomalies and youth migration. QSPM analysis showed that the revision (WO), offensive (SO), diversity-oriented (ST), and defensive (WT) strategies have high implementation priority. The selected strategy "Strengthening urban management through modern technologies and university interaction" received the highest attractiveness score. This study shows that achieving sustainable development at the neighborhood level requires a multidimensional and strategic approach with an emphasis on empowering local institutions, strengthening social participation, and utilizing external capacities

Article extracted from thesis Urban Planning

Spatial access to a specialized psychiatric hospital for the mentally disabled (case study of Ardabil city)

Articles in Press, Accepted Manuscript, Available Online from 17 August 2025

ahad badali ajirloo, Alireza Mohammadi, lotfollah maleki

Abstract Background and Aim: Appropriate and rapid access to specialized medical services is an essential issue for the health of society, especially people with disabilities. Therefore, the present study aimed to investigate and analyze the access status of people with mental and psychological disabilities to a specialized neuropsychiatric hospital in Ardabil city.
Methodology: The present study is descriptive-analytical in nature and applied in purpose. Data on population blocks were obtained from the 2016 census, and data on the research population were obtained from the General Directorate of Welfare of Ardabil Province. For analysis, the network analysis tool in GIS software has been used. Results and Discussion: The findings of the study showed Considering the location of mentally disabled people in the city and specialized hospitals, there were zero, 24, 44, 143, 160, and 199 people within 500, 1000, 2000, 3000, 4000, and 5000 meters of service area, respectively, and 129 people were located at a distance of more than 5,000 meters. Also, in the location allocation method and within a threshold of 20 minutes, all mentally disabled people can access the hospital and specialized psychiatric services. Optimal access for the majority of people with intellectual disabilities is possible in time and space, and Fatemi Hospital is the most accessible center for disabled people due to its location.

Origional Article Rural Tourism

Assessing the geomorphological and geotourism capabilities of Mahabad city using the sustainability model

Articles in Press, Accepted Manuscript, Available Online from 21 August 2025

Behrouz Nezafat Taklhe, Soneya Zolgadr khazineh, Solmaz Bahrami bodalalo, Seyedah Mahsa Mousavi Andzaghi

Abstract Background and Objective: Geotourism is a branch of sustainable tourism that focuses on the geological features and natural landscapes of a region. Tourism has various forms and types that are related to geography and tourism. The purpose of the present study is to investigate and assess the geomorphological and geotourism potential of Mahabad city, which is based on the sustainability model. The purpose of this study is to evaluate geotourism potential and its management in the tourist area of West Azerbaijan province, Mahabad city.
Methodology: The research method in this study is based on three models of Kobalikwa and Feoult. In the Kobalikwa model, the criteria are classified into five groups: scientific and intrinsic values, educational values, economic values, conservation values, and other values, which covers almost all features of geotourism. In this method, geomorphosite and landforms were selected for study and evaluation according to four criteria of origin of formation, geographical distribution, tourism and general accessibility of this national park.
Results and findings: The results obtained from the Kobalikova evaluation model showed that the geotourism areas of Mahabad city, according to experts, in the category of diversity in geomorphological forms, the geotourism area of Saholan Water Cave and Kani Barzan Wetland with a numerical average of 0.7 in the Violet model and the Saholan Cave and Kani Barzan Wetland area have obtained the highest score compared to other studied areas. This result indicates the importance and high value of these areas in terms of investment for the development of geotourism and attracting tourists. As a result, it is suggested that more up-to-date models be used in future studies to examine the studied areas and that by establishing inter-organizational cooperation and training and empowering local communities along with infrastructure development, the high geotourism capacities of Mahabad city can become a sustainable source of income and employment.

Origional Article Urban Planning

Forecasting the Trend of Housing Price Changes in Ardabil with a Spatio-Temporal Analysis Approach

Articles in Press, Accepted Manuscript, Available Online from 24 August 2025

Roghayeh Ahadpour Eirdmousa, Hossin Nazm Far

Abstract Abstract
Forecasting the Trend of Housing Price Changes in Ardabil with a Spatio-Temporal Analysis Approach examines the spatial and temporal dynamics of housing prices in this city. In recent years, housing price fluctuations have become one of the most important economic and social challenges in the city of Ardabil, which necessitates a deeper understanding of its change patterns. This research seeks to answer the question of how different spatial and temporal factors affect housing price trends in different regions of Ardabil. The main objective of this study is to predict future changes in housing prices using modern spatio-temporal analysis methods and identify areas with potential for price growth or decline. The research method is a combination of advanced statistical analysis and Geographic Information System (GIS) with an emphasis on Geo-Temporal Weighted Regression (GTWR) models. The data used include housing price information over a 5-year period and effective environmental, economic, and physical variables. The findings show that housing prices in Ardabil follow a spatio-temporal cluster pattern and the central and northern areas of the city are increasing in price at a faster pace. Key influencing factors include access to service centers, quality of the urban environment, inflation rate, and population growth. The results show that by 1405, neighborhoods adjacent to administrative and commercial centers will face price growth of 25 to 30 percent. This study provides a valuable tool for urban policymakers and housing investors to make more informed decisions in urban planning and investment in the housing sector.

Origional Article Urban Planning

Spatial Analysis of Neighborhood Centers’ Accessibility to Urban Services (Case Study: Tazeh Shahr Neighborhood, Ardabil)

Articles in Press, Accepted Manuscript, Available Online from 26 August 2025

Fina Abbasinia, ata ghafarigilandeh, Parya nasiri, Alireza Mohammadi

Abstract Background and Objective :The spatial distribution of services, facilities, land uses, and activities in cities, as well as their accessibility, is a key issue in urban studies. In this regard, the location of neighborhoods in relation to access to land uses and urban services requires special attention. This study focuses on analyzing the position of the Tazeh Shahr neighborhood to examine its accessibility to various land uses within the spatial context of the neighborhood and at different distance intervals.
Methodology: This research is applied in nature and employs a descriptive–analytical approach. Data on land uses and the street network were extracted from the detailed plan of Ardabil city and processed in ArcGIS. For each land-use category, the allocated area was calculated at the neighborhood zoning level and within distance rings (0–200, 200–500, 500–1000, 1000–2000 meters, etc.). Frequency tables and spatial indices were then generated, and the Hot Spot Analysis (Getis-Ord Gi) was applied to identify clusters of service concentration or shortage. The results were presented and analyzed through thematic maps.
Findings and Conclusion:The results revealed the accessibility status of Tazeh Shahr to a wide range of land uses, both within the neighborhood itself and across various distance rings. Findings indicate that while the neighborhood enjoys favorable accessibility to certain services, it faces limitations and shortages in others. Overall, the accessibility level of Tazeh Shahr to urban services and land uses varies depending on the type of land use and spatial scale, highlighting the need for optimized urban planning.

Origional Article Sustainable Regional Development

Investigating the Role of Human Development, Energy Consumption, and Oil Exports in the Sustainable Development of OPEC Member Countries

Articles in Press, Accepted Manuscript, Available Online from 02 September 2025

Zahra Fotourehchi, Behnaz Alaei

Abstract Background and Objective: Sustainable development in OPEC member countries is influenced by various factors, including human development, energy consumption, and oil exports. A precise understanding of the long-term effects of these factors can assist economic policymakers in formulating effective strategies for sustainable regional economic growth. The aim of this study is to examine the long-term relationships between human development, energy consumption, and oil exports with sustainable development in OPEC countries.
Methodology: This applied research utilizes annual data from the period 2000 to 2021 and conducts an econometric analysis of the mentioned variables using the PMG-ARDL method within a panel data framework. The data were collected and analyzed from reputable international sources.
Findings and Conclusion: Given the structural dependence of OPEC economies on oil revenues and their vulnerability to price fluctuations, adopting a comprehensive approach to economic policymaking is essential. The results of this study indicate that, despite the positive role of oil exports in sustainable development, unmanaged and inefficient energy consumption can have adverse effects on economic and environmental sustainability. Furthermore, the weak impact of human development on sustainability highlights the need to reassess the quality and direction of human capital investments in these countries. Therefore, it is recommended that policymakers focus on enhancing energy efficiency, diversifying income sources, and strengthening human infrastructure to pave the way for balanced, resilient, and long-term development—one that not only fosters economic growth but also increases countries' resilience to external shocks.

Extract article from research project Regional & urban planning

Climate change and spatial analysis of respiratory diseases: a systematic review

Articles in Press, Accepted Manuscript, Available Online from 03 September 2025

Alireza Mohammadi, Elahe Pishgar

Abstract Climate change exacerbates health risks through pathways such as increased air pollution, proliferation of allergens, and frequency of extreme weather events such as heat waves, wildfires, and floods, all of which have direct and indirect impacts on respiratory health. Using spatial analysis, geographic patterns of respiratory disease prevalence and severity are identified. We conducted this review based on a five-step methodological framework developed by Arksey and O'Malley. We screened all articles published in PubMed/MEDLINE, Scopus, and Web of Science databases since the beginning of 2010 that employed at least one form of spatial analysis related to the impact of climate change on respiratory disease. In total, 44 articles met the inclusion criteria and were organized into three main themes: temperature changes (n = 23); air pollution (n = 15); and extreme weather events (n = 6). Our findings suggest that most studies use basic spatial analysis techniques, such as disease mapping, which may not lead to robust conclusions. The findings highlight the need for spatially targeted interventions and adaptive public health strategies, including improved air quality management, early warning systems, and climate-resilient health care infrastructure, to reduce the future burden of climate-related respiratory diseases.
The review calls for a geospatially informed public health response that addresses spatial disparities in respiratory health outcomes exacerbated by climate change. The review also highlights the disproportionate impact on vulnerable populations, including children, the elderly, and low-income communities, who often live in high-risk areas and face compounded health challenges due to limited access to health care.

Article extracted from thesis Physical geogeaphy

Projection and examining changes in Iran's average maximum and minimum temperatures using the output of CMIP6 models

Articles in Press, Accepted Manuscript, Available Online from 03 September 2025

Batool Zeinali, mahyar ahadi, bromand salahi

Abstract زمینه و هدف: این پژوهش با استفاده از برونداد مدل‌های CMIP6 و دو سناریو SSP2-4.5 و SSP5-8.5، روند تغییرات و ناهنجاری دمای میانگین بیشینه و کمینه ایران را طی سه دوره زمانی آینده نزدیک، میانه و دور بررسی و پیش‌نگری می‌نماید.
روش شناسی: ابتدا 15 مدل از مجموعه مدل‌های CMIP6 انتخاب و اعتبار سنجی و صحت سنجی مدل‌ها و مقایسه آنها با داده‌های مشاهداتی 71 ایستگاه هواشناسی، با استفاده از شاخص KGE و سایر روش‌های ارزیابی خطا انجام شد. جهت مقیاس‌کاهی و تصحیح خطا از نرم افزار Cmhyd استفاده شد.
نتایج و یافته‌ها: بررسی روند تغییرات دمای میانگین بیشینه و کمینه با استفاده از خروجی مدل NorESM2-MM و آزمون تعیین روند من- کندال، حاکی از روند صعودی تحت هر دو سناریو و در 100 درصد ایستگاه‌ها با سطح اطمینان 99 درصد می‌باشد. انتظار می‌رود دمای میانگین بیشینه تحت دو سناریو SSP2-4.5 و SSP5-8.5 با آهنگ 24/0 و 65/0 و دمای میانگین کمینه نیز با آهنگ 21/0 و 60/0 درجه سلسیوس در هر دهه افزایش داشته باشند. همچنین بیشترین افزایش دمای بیشینه و کمینه، تحت سناریو SSP5-8.5 و در آینده دور به ترتیب با 2/3 و 6/4 درجه سلسیوس رخ خواهد داد. با توجه به نتایج، بیشترین ناهنجاری مثبت، در دماهای کمینه مشاهده شد، به طوری که در تمام سال‌های دوره پیشنگری تا سال 2100، دمای میانگین کمینه نسبت به دوره پایه افزایش خواهد داشت، در حالی که طی بعضی از سال‌های آینده نزدیک، امکان کاهش دمای میانگین بیشینه نسبت به دوره پایه وجود دارد.
نتیجه گیری: نتیجه‌گیری می‌شود تا انتهای قرن حاضر دمای میانگین بیشینه و کمینه در بیشتر مناطق کشور روند صعودی خواهد داشت، که البته ناهنجاری‌های مثبت در دماهای کمینه بسیار مشهودتر از دمای بیشینه می‌باشد. همچنین تحت سناریوهای با انتشار بالای گازهای گلخانه‌ای، ناهنجاری‌های دمایی مثبت شدیدتر و آهنگ تغییرات بیشتر خواهد بود.

Extract article from research project geographical information system

Analysis of the role of natural and environmental structures in the settlement pattern of historical sites (Case study: Vinda Kholoran village, Sarein County)

Articles in Press, Accepted Manuscript, Available Online from 04 September 2025

Seyed Mehdi Hosseini Nia, Habib shahbazi Shiran, Elnaz Hobbi Arvanag

Abstract Results and Discussion: The geographical conditions and ecosystem of the study area have played a significant role in the formation and expansion of settlements. Based on the description and analysis of the obtained maps, it can be said that the study areas are located adjacent to and along the path of water resources. The most important indicators of the sites in this region are: an altitude of 1355 to 1710 meters, moderate to poor vegetation cover, irrigated agricultural land use, location between communication routes and proximity to the modern village of Wind Kelkhoran, the suitable topography of the region considering the low numerical range of slopes and slope directions toward the northeast, east, southeast, and south, and the geological features of the region with volcanic rocks ranging from dacite to andesite. Given the importance of rural tourism in the sustainable development of the country and the diversity of historical sites in this region, it is necessary to pay serious attention to this area. Finally, it is recommended that the development infrastructure of this village, such as the construction of accommodation and communication spaces, the introduction of the village's capabilities thru appropriate advertising, and the restoration and revitalization of historical spaces to attract tourists and convert hand-dug spaces into places like the production and sale of local products and handicrafts, etc., are important strategies for tourism development in this region.

Extract article from research project Urban & Regional Economic

Testing the sustainability of economic tourism in Ardabil province based on quantitative models

Articles in Press, Accepted Manuscript, Available Online from 08 September 2025

Hatef Hazeri Niri, Behrouz Nezafat Taklhe, Maryam Maryam Jami

Abstract Background and Objective: The present study aimed to test the level of sustainability of economic tourism in these three cities based on the quantitative models of Zoros, Kobalikwa, and Feuillet.
Methodology: The research method is a combination of quantitative and descriptive-analytical methods and the required data are collected through official statistical sources, field questionnaires and secondary data. In the Kobalikova method, the criteria are placed in five groups. It covers almost all the features of geotourism. The value of each criterion in this model varies between zero and one (0-1). In the Violet method, geomorphosites and landforms were selected for study and evaluation based on four criteria: origin of formation, geographical distribution, tourism, and general accessibility status of this national park. The overall evaluation of geotourism and geomorphosites in this method is based on two main rates. 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 results: Based on the results obtained from the Kobalikwa model, Sarein County has obtained the highest score compared to other geotourism areas with a value of (74.6). The evaluation of the Zoros model also showed that among the geosites of Ardabil province (the studied areas), the Sarein geosite has the highest score with 74 points, and after this geosite, the Khalkhal and Germi geosites have obtained 68 and 58 points, respectively. Also, in the method of evaluating national parks, where the value of geotourism is evaluated in two parts: management rate and tourism rate, Sarein County, with a total score of (14.7), has diverse capabilities compared to other geotourism areas.
Conclusion: Therefore, it is concluded that Sarein County is in a relatively stable state in all three models due to its high concentration of tourism infrastructure, economic investment, and economic efficiency. Khalkhal County, despite its natural and ecotourism capacities, is ranked second due to its weakness in economic infrastructure. Despite its regional potential, Germi County has the lowest level of economic sustainability of tourism in terms of the three indicators. Finally, it is suggested that future studies should use various models and online questionnaires to evaluate the capabilities and capacities of economic tourism.
Keywords: : Economic tourism, sustainability, quantitative models, Ardabil province

Origional Article Regional & Urban Spatial Organization

Analysis of Hydro-Geomorphic and Natural Characteristics of the Firoozabad Watershed Using GIS and GEE Systems

Articles in Press, Accepted Manuscript, Available Online from 27 September 2025

Aylar Khayati noshahr, Mousa Abedini

Abstract Background and Objective: The purpose of this study is to analyze and describe the hydro-geomorphological and natural factors of the Firoozabad watershed, located in Ardabil Province, using modern GIS technologies and cloud-based processing via Google Earth Engine (GEE).
Methodology: To achieve the study objectives, geomorphic and environmental factors—such as vegetation cover and land use—were extracted from Sentinel-2 satellite imagery and the GLC-FCS30D database within the GEE environment, which enabled fast and accurate processing of large-scale datasets. Elevation data with a spatial resolution of 12.5 meters were obtained from the ALOS PALSAR Digital Elevation Model, and geological and soil type data were provided by the Geological Survey of Iran. Data analysis was carried out using GIS software and GEE, leading to the creation of various maps to identify spatial patterns and interrelations between factors.
Results and Findings: The NDVI values ranged from -0.26 to 0.67, indicating that the densest vegetation cover is found in the northeastern and eastern parts of the watershed, while the western, southwestern, and certain central areas show a noticeable reduction. The average slope of the basin is approximately 20%, with a standard deviation of 13.63%. Areas with slopes exceeding 40% are prone to severe erosion and rapid surface runoff. Annual precipitation varies between 531 and 837 mm, and its uneven distribution influences both vegetation patterns and hydrological processes. The geological structure, featuring erosion-prone formations like marls and shales alongside permeable alluvial layers, significantly affects the watershed's hydrological and morphological dynamics. The mean elevation is 1,895 meters, with an elevation range from 1,118 to 3,225 meters. Land use is predominantly composed of rangelands (54%) and agricultural lands (44%), where poor management could threaten natural resources. These findings can provide a scientific and practical foundation for watershed management planning focused on conserving soil and water resources and reducing the risks of erosion, floods, and landslides.

Origional Article Rural Planning

Investigating and estimating the radiation balance of climate change using Landsat satellite image series (Case study area: Aslandoz County) .

Articles in Press, Accepted Manuscript, Available Online from 28 September 2025

lotfollah Maleki Masoomabad, Maryam MaryamMohammadzadeh shishehgaean

Abstract Abstract
Studies show that the role of thermal remote sensing in the study and estimation of land surface temperature is very important. Land surface temperature is a very important indicator in the study of energy balance models at the land surface on a regional and global scale. Given the limitations of meteorological stations, remote sensing can be a suitable alternative for estimating land surface temperature. The main goal of this research is to monitor land surface temperature using satellite images in the years 2003, 2013, and 2023. For this purpose, the relevant images were first obtained and the necessary pre-processing was applied to each. Then, modeling and determination of the radiation and heat balance of the images were carried out. Finally, in order to monitor land surface temperature, a surface temperature map of Aslandoz County was extracted. The results showed that in 2003, the earth's surface temperature increased from 40.10 to 42.49 in 2013, and finally, due to climate change and rapid and severe human intervention in nature, it increased sharply to 49.92 in 2023. The results showed that areas with high vegetation cover and water areas had low temperatures, and areas without vegetation had the highest temperatures each year. This indicates that this human intervention, the destruction of forests and pastures, and the expansion of the city have also increased the concentration of heat compared to 20 years ago. Because vegetation has always been a barrier to heat, has a moderating moisture, and also has an inverse relationship with the temperature of the earth's surface.

Article extracted from thesis Physical geogeaphy

Evaluation and analysis of hydromorphological conditions of the Qorichay River in Ardabil Province using the morphological quality index

Articles in Press, Accepted Manuscript, Available Online from 04 October 2025

Behrouz Nezafat Taklhe, Fariba Esfandyari, Raoof Mostafazadhe, mousa abedini

Abstract Background and Objective: The natural flow regime of the river is a very important factor in determining the functions of aquatic ecosystems and their surroundings. The aim of this study is to evaluate the hydrogeomorphological conditions of the Qorichai River in Ardabil Province using the MQI method.
Methodology: In order to achieve this goal, the Geomorphological Quality Index (MQI) method has been used. First, the river network is divided into homogeneous intervals (6 intervals). Then, related morphological indices such as bank stability, channel pattern, cross-section changes, sedimentation potential, and adaptation to the surrounding environment are calculated.
Results and findings: The results showed that the value of the geomorphological quality index in the studied intervals is between 0.77 and 0.27, among which the maximum coefficient is in interval 2 with a score of 0.77 in the good category, which indicates the greater dynamics of this interval compared to other intervals, and the minimum score is in interval 3 with a value of 0.27, which is in the very poor category. Therefore, it was concluded that the Qorichai River is in a poor condition from intervals 3 to 6 and does not have favorable conditions, but on the contrary, it has appropriate dynamics in intervals 1 and 2. Finally, it is suggested that practical measures be taken to protect the river in intervals with unfavorable quality.

Origional Article Urban Planning

The Analysis of Spatial Distribution Pattern of housing prices by Using Spatial Statistics in GIS

Articles in Press, Accepted Manuscript, Available Online from 04 October 2025

Hossin NazmFar, Mansour Rahmati, Roghayeh Ahadpour Eirdmousa

Abstract چکیده
تحلیل الگوی پراکنش فضایی قیمت مسکن در شهر اردبیل با استفاده از GIS، موضوعی است که به بررسی توزیع جغرافیایی قیمت مسکن و عوامل مؤثر بر آن می‌پردازد. با رشد شهرنشینی و افزایش تقاضا برای مسکن، درک نحوه توزیع قیمت‌ها در سطح شهر به برنامه‌ریزان و سیاست‌گذاران کمک می‌کند تا تصمیمات بهینه‌تری اتخاذ کنند. در این تحقیق، مسأله اصلی شناسایی الگوهای فضایی قیمت مسکن و ارتباط آن با متغیرهای اقتصادی، اجتماعی و کالبدی است. هدف اصلی این مطالعه، تحلیل پراکنش فضایی قیمت مسکن و تعیین عوامل کلیدی تأثیرگذار بر آن در شهر اردبیل است. روش تحقیق به‌صورت توصیفی-تحلیلی بوده و از ابزارهای GIS برای تحلیل فضایی داده‌ها استفاده شده است. داده‌های مورد نیاز از منابع رسمی و میدانی جمع‌آوری و با روش‌های آماری و زمین-آماری مورد پردازش قرار گرفته‌اند. یافته‌ها نشان می‌دهد که: قیمت مسکن در شهر اردبیل از الگوی خوشه‌ای تبعیت می‌کند و مناطق با قیمته‌ای بالا و پایین به‌صورت متمرکز در نقاط خاصی از شهر قرار دارند. عواملی مانند دسترسی به مراکز خدماتی، کیفیت محیطی و ویژگی‌های کالبدی ساختمان‌ها تأثیر معناداری بر قیمت مسکن دارند. نتایج تحقیق بیانگر آن است که تحلیل فضایی قیمت مسکن می‌تواند به درک بهتر نابرابری‌های شهری و تدوین سیاست‌های مسکن کمک کند. این مطالعه به برنامه‌ریزان شهری پیشنهاد می‌کند از ابزارهای GIS برای پایش مستمر تغییرات قیمت مسکن و شناسایی مناطق محروم استفاده کنند.

Extract article from research project Physical geogeaphy

Investigation and evaluation of lands suitable for cherry tree cultivation based on climatic and physiographic factors (Case study: Hir region, Ardabil Province) Abstract

Articles in Press, Accepted Manuscript, Available Online from 08 October 2025

Behrouz Sobhani

Abstract Background and Objective: One of the methods of agricultural planning is determining suitable locations for planting crops and orchards based on climatic and physiographic conditions. The aim of this study is to locate areas suitable for cherry tree cultivation in the Hir region of Ardabil Province based on climatic elements and factors.
Methodology: In this study, data on climatic factors such as slope, elevation above sea level, and soil depth, as well as data on climatic elements including precipitation (annual, winter, germination, flowering, fruiting) and average temperature (winter, flowering, fruiting, and ripening) with a 30-year statistical period (1994 to 2023) were used. The research process included data collection, calculations and statistical analysis using Excel, determining the weighted index of criteria using the AHP method, and inputting and integrating information in the GIS environment.
Findings and Conclusion: The research results showed that altitude above sea level with a weight index of 0.166, winter temperature with a weight of 0.139, and germination temperature with a weight of 0.106 had the greatest impact on cherry tree planting. Each criterion was weighted according to the AHP method and classified in a GIS environment. The final cherry tree planting location map was prepared by integrating the classified criteria in the GIS environment. The results indicated that approximately 32% of the Hir region lands are very suitable, 19% suitable, 23% marginally suitable, and 27% unsuitable for cherry tree cultivation. Overall, the Bagh-e-Rabad and Hir stations, due to their favorable climatic and physiographic conditions, are among the areas suitable for cherry tree planting.

Origional Article Urban Design

Presenting a model for assessing architectural flexibility in collaborative work units(by reviewing previous definitions)

Articles in Press, Accepted Manuscript, Available Online from 27 October 2025

Javad Goudini

Abstract Background and Objective: This paper has confirmed that coworking spaces, as one of the emerging spaces, require flexibility. However, the models presented for assessing flexibility in architectural design face two problems. The first problem is that such models have been presented for other uses such as housing, etc., and the second problem is that little effort has been made to modify and improve existing models. This paper seeks to present a model for assessing flexibility in the architecture of coworking spaces.
Materials and Methods: This research, which is descriptive-analytical in nature, adopts an inductive approach and seeks to extract components for flexible collaborative work units by reviewing and analyzing existing written sources on flexibility. These sources were collected from various Persian and English fields in various disciplines (from Google Scholar and Magiran) and comparison and rational arguments were used to analyze them.
Findings and Results: The results showed that this research has shown that flexibility in the architectural design of collaborative work units can be assessed at three levels: general flexibility (through the ten components of changeability, ease of change, non-disappearance, consideration of uncertainty, the existence of multiple options, coordination with new requirements, no need for permanent changes, reversibility, the need for a force for change, and its solution-oriented nature); general architectural flexibility (through the three dimensions of internal/external; micro/macro; physical/spatial) and architectural flexibility related to collaborative work (at dual organizational and temporal scales).

Origional Article Urban Planning

Assessing the Status of Urban Neighborhoods in Terms of Child-Friendly City Indicators and Factors Affecting their Achievement (Case Study: Gorgan-Pars and Ozineh Neighborhoods of Gorgan City)

Articles in Press, Accepted Manuscript, Available Online from 03 November 2025

Alireza Mohammadi, Sharaf Azar Aein, Ata GhafariGilandeh, jafar mirkatouli

Abstract Background and Aim: Child-friendly cities are active and attractive places that provide children with opportunities for interaction, recreation, personal growth, stress reduction, creativity stimulation, and social vitality. In this regard, the aim of this study is to assess the status of neighborhoods in Gorgan in terms of child-friendly city indicators and the factors effective in achieving them.
Methodology: The present study is applied in terms of purpose and descriptive-analytical in terms of method. Field and questionnaire methods were used in this study. In the first part of the study, which is the statistical population of child caregivers, the Cochran formula was used to determine the sample size, which resulted in a sample size of 350 people. In the next part of the study, which used the Delphi sampling method, 50 people with a master's degree or higher who have valid research in the field of urban planning and management with a focus on the child-friendly city of Gorgan were used as the statistical population. SPSS and SMART-PLS software were used to analyze the data.
Findings and Results: In terms of child-friendly city components, Gorgan-Pars neighborhood is in a better position than Ozineh neighborhood, and the physical-environmental and managerial-organizational components are the most problematic components in the field of child-friendly city at the level of neighborhoods in Gorgan. Based on the results obtained, the physical-environmental criterion (factor load 0.77), the managerial-organizational criterion (factor load 0.73), the social-cultural criterion (factor load 0.65), and the economic criterion (factor load 0.58) have the greatest impact on achieving a child-friendly city.

Article extracted from thesis Urban Planning

Desirability assessment of the quality of residential environment components from the perspective of citizens (Case study: Baqubah, Iraq)

Articles in Press, Accepted Manuscript, Available Online from 05 November 2025

Mostafa Ameer Saeed Al Abdoljabar, Hossein Nazmfar, Alireza mohammadi, Mohammad Hasan Yazdani

Abstract Background and Objective: The first step to achieving a desirable living environment is to assess the quality of life from the perspective of residents and identify the factors that affect their satisfaction with their living environment. Accordingly, the present study was designed to assess the desirability of the quality of residential environment components from the perspective of citizens in the city of Baqubah, Iraq.
Methodology: This research is applied in terms of purpose and descriptive-analytical in terms of type. The statistical population includes the citizens of Baqubah city and the sample size was determined to be 384 people using the Cochran formula. SPSS software was used to analyze the data and in this regard, one-sample t-tests, independent t-tests, one-way analysis of variance and Scheffe's post hoc test were used.
Findings and Conclusion: Based on the results of the one-sample t-test, the level of satisfaction of residents with their residential environment shows the number 3.548. In addition, one-way analysis of variance indicates that two factors, age and education level, have significantly affected the level of satisfaction of individuals with the residential environment. In contrast, factors such as employment status, income level, home ownership, distance from work to home, house area and number of rooms have not shown a significant effect on satisfaction with the residential environment. Surveys show that the level of satisfaction of Baqubah residents with the residential environment, according to evaluation criteria including security, public facilities and services, physical features, visibility, lighting and ventilation, community health, access and transportation, and neighborhood relations, is generally assessed as average.

Origional Article Urban Planning

Investigating and Explaining Islamic Rulings in the Distribution of Spatial Justice for Educational Uses and Green Spaces in Iranian-Islamic Urban Planning (Case Study: Neighborhoods in District 9 of Mashhad)

Articles in Press, Accepted Manuscript, Available Online from 06 November 2025

Sina Piralaie, Hasan Salehi

Abstract Background and Aim: According to the teachings of Islam, justice is one of the most basic and fundamental principles governing the biological system and human behavior. Among them, there are some urban areas that, in terms of spatial justice distribution, not only do not meet the needs of citizens and their equal access to urban uses, but also create problems for citizens. In Iran, many urban development plans and programs are not based on the rules of Islam and the paradigms of an Islamic society. Therefore, following the example of foreigners in the design and planning process in Islamic cities is prohibited and not permissible. The purpose of this article is to extract the dos and don'ts of Islamic rulings in the distribution of spatial justice of educational uses and green space in Iranian-Islamic urban development
Methodology: The present research method is descriptive-analytical and the data was collected based on library resources (including the results of the general population and housing census of the country and the comprehensive plan of Mashhad city) and field methods in the form of physical observations. Using the method of text content analysis and logical reasoning, the factors affecting the realizability of spatial justice distribution in Iranian-Islamic urban planning have been extracted.
Findings and Results: The results show that the area under study has not been able to benefit from Islamic rulings in spatial justice distribution and achieve its lofty goals. Therefore, in order to establish justice in the distribution of space and equal access to uses in an Islamic city for the general public, especially the underprivileged, it is imperative to observe Islamic jurisprudential rules in the preparation and implementation of urban development plans.

Origional Article Urban Planning

Evaluation of the Transit-Oriented Development (TOD) Pattern (A Case Study: Region 4 of Tabriz City)

Articles in Press, Accepted Manuscript, Available Online from 06 November 2025

Hassan Mahmoudzadeh, Ali Reza Omidpor Gizil Dizaj, Saeedeh Hosseinpour

Abstract Abstract
Background and Objective: The rapid growth of urbanization and the increasing dependence on private cars in recent decades have created serious challenges in urban transportation systems and have reduced the quality of urban life. In this context, the Transit-Oriented Development (TOD) model, as one of the modern approaches to urban planning, is considered a sustainable strategy for reducing traffic congestion, enhancing urban environmental quality, and promoting public transportation. The main objective of this study is to evaluate the current status of transit-oriented development in District 4 of Tabriz, focusing on physical, functional, and infrastructural indicators.
Methodology: This study employs a descriptive–analytical research method. Data were collected from Geographic Information System (GIS) maps, the detailed plan of Tabriz, and demographic and transportation network information. Spatial models such as Line Density, Entropy, and Distance were applied for data analysis, and key indicators including walkability, cycling, connectivity, land-use mix, density, compactness, and policy shift were quantitatively assessed. Furthermore, the Analytic Hierarchy Process (AHP) model was used to determine the relative importance of the indicators.
Findings and Conclusion: The results indicate that the central neighborhoods of District 4, due to their high population density and proximity to public transport networks, show the greatest alignment with TOD principles, while the northern and western parts, characterized by spatial dispersion and greater distance from transit stations, exhibit weaker performance. Walkability and land-use mix indicators were found to be more favorable in the older urban areas. Based on AHP analysis, connectivity and public transport accessibility were identified as the most influential factors in achieving TOD. Therefore, developing pedestrian-friendly networks, strengthening cycling infrastructure, and increasing density around transit stations are suggested as key strategies for improving TOD in the study area.

Origional Article Urban Planning

Developing strategic scenarios to enhance the resilience of fabric central Ahvaz city textures

Articles in Press, Accepted Manuscript, Available Online from 07 November 2025

Azadeh Arbabi Sabzevari, Fatemeh Yazdani fard, Fatemeh Adibi Saadinejad, Hamid Reza Jodaki

Abstract Background and Objective: The dilapidated fabric of the central part of Ahvaz city is highly vulnerable to various shocks and threats (natural such as earthquakes, floods, fires; socio-economic such as recession, demographic and technological changes) due to its high vulnerability in various physical, social, economic, environmental and institutional-management fields. In this regard, addressing the issue of future research on the role of resilience components in the dilapidated fabric of the central part of Ahvaz city is a multifaceted and vital necessity. Therefore, the present study was conducted with the aim of investigating the scenarios of impact on improving the resilience of dilapidated urban fabric.
Methodology: The present study is applied in terms of purpose and descriptive-analytical in terms of method. The data collection method was library, documentary, and interview (with 50 experts) and using futures research techniques and Micmac and Scenario wizard software.
Results and Findings: The present research, aiming to determine the future trajectories of resilience in the obsolete urban fabric of Ahvaz's central district, initially identified 30 main factors across five dimensions: Environmental, Social, Physical, Economic, and Institutional-Organizational. Utilizing the MICMAC (Matrice d'Impacts Croisés Multiplication Appliquée à un Classement) and Scenario Wizard software, these factors were refined, leading to the selection of 18 key drivers (or "propellants") for scenario development.The final analysis of 19 possible scenarios yielded three distinct pathways: 8 Optimistic Scenarios (promising comprehensive physical-social development), 7 Stagnant Scenarios (indicating high-risk stagnation and fragility), and 4 Pessimistic/Crisis Scenarios (forecasting widespread collapse across economic, environmental, and safety dimensions).The most crucial results, ranked by the Cross-Impact Balance (CIB) Score, indicate that the Strong (Desired) Scenario—with the highest total impact score of 780—is heavily reliant on critical drivers such as local empowerment and extensive financial support. Conversely, the Undesirable (Crisis) Scenario, with a sharp negative score of $-210$, results from a combination of the weakness of these very drivers and increased vulnerability. The ultimate conclusion emphasizes that the future of resilience in the region is critically dependent on the strategic choices of policymakers. To prevent a slide toward stagnation and collapse (as reflected in the Stagnant and Pessimistic scenarios), immediate priority must be given to strengthening the social dimension (through empowerment) and reforming institutional structures (financial), thereby translating existing potential into comprehensive sustainability.

Origional Article Regional & urban planning

Assessment of Topographic and Spatial Vulnerability of Khorramabad City Against Air Attacks with GIS

Articles in Press, Accepted Manuscript, Available Online from 13 November 2025

َAmirreza Beiranvand, Enayat Mirzaei

Abstract 1. Introduction
The escalation of military threats, such as air and drone attacks, along with advancements in technologies like F-35 fighters and precision-guided systems, has driven urban planning and crisis management toward advanced spatial analysis tools (Blaikie et al., 2013). Khorramabad, the capital of Lorestan Province in western Iran, is a strategic military target due to the presence of Imam Ali Barracks, making it vulnerable to potential attacks (Shakiba & Mousavi, 2019). The region’s topography, including slope, visibility, and proximity to strategic targets, significantly influences its vulnerability. This study aims to evaluate Khorramabad’s topographic and spatial vulnerability using Geographic Information Systems (GIS) and Digital Elevation Model (DEM) data to produce a comprehensive vulnerability map.
.2. Methods and Material
GIS-based methods were employed using 30-meter resolution DEM data from the Shuttle Radar Topography Mission (SRTM). Slope was calculated with the ArcGIS Pro Slope tool and categorized into 0–5°, 5–15°, and >15°. Viewshed analysis was conducted using Imam Ali Barracks as the observation point, while Euclidean Distance classified areas into 0–500 m, 500–1000 m, and 1000–10000 m from the barracks. Layers were integrated using Weighted Overlay, assigning 40% weight to distance, 30% to slope, and 30% to visibility, with validation using OSM data (30% weight). Geometric accuracy was ensured through field data comparison.
3. Results and Discussion
Results indicate that 6.56% of the city (4.79 km²) falls within the high vulnerability zone, primarily in western Khorramabad, characterized by slopes of 0–5°, distances less than 1000 m, and high visibility. Moderate vulnerability covers 72.43% (52.83 km²), while low vulnerability encompasses 21.01% (15.38 km²) of the city. The 40% weighting of distance highlights its critical role in vulnerability assessment, consistent with prior GIS-based studies (Kim et al., 2004).
4. Conclusion
This study confirms GIS as an effective tool for identifying high-risk areas and recommends reinforcing infrastructure, establishing urban shelters, and planning emergency evacuation routes in western Khorramabad. Future research could enhance model accuracy by incorporating population, land-use data, building density, and dynamic indicators such as climate variations.

Origional Article Urban Planning

Optimal Site Selection for a Prison Using GIS and Multi-Criteria Analysis (Case Study: Neyshabur)

Articles in Press, Accepted Manuscript, Available Online from 19 November 2025

Mehdi Mubasheri, Zahra Sharifinia, Mojtaba Rokhtafkan

Abstract The optimal site selection for sensitive facilities such as prisons is a significant challenge in urban and regional management. This study aims to identify optimal locations for a prison in Neyshabur city by integrating Geographic Information Systems (GIS) and Multi-Criteria Decision-Making (MCDM) methods. In terms of purpose, the present study is applied, and in terms of methodology, it is descriptive-analytical. Through library and field studies, 14 effective criteria for prison site selection were identified and categorized into two groups: natural criteria (elevation, slope, aspect, soil type, distance from fault lines, distance from surface waters) and human-security criteria (distance from communication routes, urban boundaries, villages, military centers, industrial centers, passenger terminals, and gas pipelines). The required data were obtained from relevant organizations and processed in a GIS environment. For data analysis, the Analytic Hierarchy Process (AHP) and the Analytic Network Process (ANP) methods were used. In the AHP method, after forming the pairwise comparison matrix and calculating the criteria weights, an inconsistency rate of 0.03 was obtained, indicating the reliability of the results. Accordingly, the criteria of 'distance from the city boundary' (0.18) and 'distance from military centers' (0.16) received the highest weights. The results showed that based on the ANP method, 6.49% (500 hectares) of the study area was classified as 'highly suitable', 43.87% (3380 hectares) as 'suitable', and 24.53% (1890 hectares) as 'moderately suitable'. In total, 74.89% of the city's area (5770 hectares) possesses favorable conditions for prison construction. The 'highly suitable' zones are primarily located in the northern and central parts of the city, characterized by gentle topography, balanced access to main roads, and a safe distance from settlements. This zoning can provide a scientific basis for decision-makers and planners in the site selection of a prison in Neyshabur city.

Origional Article Urban Planning

Revival and organization of historical contexts with an emphasis on the approach of the cultural landscape of the city

Articles in Press, Accepted Manuscript, Available Online from 28 November 2025

Rasoul Ghorbani, Sareh Rezaie Es Haghvandi

Abstract Background and Objective: Urbanization and rapid changes in cities have placed the preservation of the city's historical textures at the center of urban planning. Common concepts that attempt to define old buildings, building groups, and urban areas as separate entities in the urban context are blurred. Therefore, a transformation has occurred in both the concept and structure of the city's historical textures, which is derived from the challenges in this field and consequently, along with these textural landscapes for dealing with a historical territory, such as the urban landscape (HULL). In this regard, the aim of the present study is to investigate the objective and subjective indicators of the historical urban landscape of Kermanshah city with Hull's cultural theory.
Research Methodology: The method of conducting the present study was descriptive-analytical, and its information was collected through library studies and through completing a questionnaire. For data analysis, a one-sample t-test was used in the Spss21 software and the SWARA model was used for weighting and ranking the indicators.
Findings and Results: The results of the questionnaire, which are divided into two general categories of social security and integration indicators, have shown that the component indicating clarity, legibility, and memorability, and the functional-social cohesion index have the highest score and value. The results of the Swara model also indicate that among the qualities, quality, experience in the environment, respectively, have ranked first to third in the level of completely desirable performance, which is indicative of the fact that memories and good experiences have been associated with the environment and the study area in the minds of residents and individuals, which increases the likelihood of people returning and using the social space.

Origional Article Rural Tourism

Analyzing the strengths and weaknesses of the geomorphological and touristic potentials of the Heyran Gorge using quantitative models (K.F(Ardabil Province

Articles in Press, Accepted Manuscript, Available Online from 29 November 2025

Mansour Rahmati, melika sharafati, behrouz nezafat

Abstract Geotourism focuses on human interaction with geomorphological phenomena, where natural landforms as geomorphosites play a key role in attracting tourists and sustainable tourism development. This type of tourism is of interest to both experts and nature enthusiasts. The present study, with an integrated approach, follows an analysis Geotourism and geomorphological potentials of the Heyran Pass region in Astara County, which is considered one of the mountainous regions prone to the development of natural tourism in northwest Iran. For this purpose, two valid analytical models, namely the "Kobalikova" model for the evaluation of geosites and the "Feuillet" model for the examination of management and application indicators, were used. Research data were extracted and weighted through a combination of field observations, specialized questionnaires (with a statistical population consisting of 28 experts and 15 tourists) and spatial analysis. The evaluation of five key indicators including scientific, educational, conservation, economic and added value was carried out in the three regions of Mashand, Chamlar and Gilde.The research findings showed that Gilde village, with a final score of 4.75 out of 5 in the K.F model, has the highest potential for the development of geotourism; while Mashand has the lowest level of readiness with a score of 3.25. Effective factors such as inadequate infrastructure, weak education and lack of documented cultural connection have reduced its score. Chamlar with a score of 4.25 ranked second and is in a good position in terms of geomorphological diversity and local community participation. Overall, the article shows that by developing educational, cultural and management infrastructure, these areas can be exploited for the sustainable development of geotourism.

Origional Article Rural Planning

An Investigation of the Factors Influencing Local Community Participation in Watershed Management Projects (Case Study: Kohgiluyeh County, Suq District)

Articles in Press, Accepted Manuscript, Available Online from 01 December 2025

Behzad Moteshaffeh, Khosrow Mohammadi, Sareh Hashem Geloogerdi

Abstract 1. Introduction
The involvement and active participation of rural communities in watershed management projects provide substantial and wide-ranging benefits. Community participation is a critical component in environmental assessments, policy-making, and strategic planning. Empirical evidence suggests that disregarding the role of local communities in natural resource management results in the marginalization of the primary stakeholders of these resources, thereby undermining the effectiveness of planning, decision-making, and implementation processes.
2. Methods and Material
A sample of 384 people from Suq district was selected as a sample according to the Cochran’s formula. The questionnaires were distributed, and after they were completed, the opinions of experienced experts were used to validate the content. Finally, its reliability was evaluated using Cronbach’s alpha. The Cronbach’s alpha of the questionnaire was calculated to be 0.80 for economic indicators and 0.78 for social indicators. Then, various socio-economic factors were examined using statistical methods.
3. Results and Discussion
The Friedman test rank average showed that the highest rank average related to the factor of the influence of participation in financing the implementation of the project by natural resource departments was 7.84, which shows the greatest difference among the 12 economic and social factors. Also, the factor of the influence of religious teachings and mosques on the level of participation with an average of 7.02 was recognized in the second ranks. Also, the results of the regression analysis indicated that 81.9 percent of the changes in the participation of local communities can be explained based on social and economic variables.
4. Conclusion
Based on the results, it is recommended that before implementing the projects, the social and economic conditions should be thoroughly analyzed and the existing strengths and weaknesses should be clearly identified. By reinforcing the strengths and addressing the obstacles, it becomes possible to increase local community’s participation in the implementation of the projects. Therefore, environmental degradation and subsequent social issues can be prevented.

Article extracted from dissertations Urban Planning

Evaluation of the Socio-Economic Impacts of Urban Intervention Projects in Informal Settlements: A Case Study of 45-Meter Engelab Street from the Perspective of the Second Generation of Residents

Articles in Press, Accepted Manuscript, Available Online from 03 December 2025

Amir Esmaili-Zangabad, iraj Teymouri, Fereydoun Babaei Aghdam

Abstract Abstract
Background and Aim: The rapid growth of urbanization and the inability of formal planning systems to meet the needs of low-income groups have led to the formation of informal settlements in many Iranian cities. These settlements often face social, economic, and physical challenges, and urban interventions in the form of regeneration projects are implemented with the aim of improving living conditions. However, evaluating the impacts of such interventions has always been one of the major challenges in urban policy-making, especially when the perspectives of different generations of residents are overlooked.

Methodology: The present study aims to assess the social and economic impacts of urban intervention projects in informal settlements, focusing on a case study of the 45-Meter Engelab Street in the Khalilabad neighborhood of Tabriz from the perspective of the second generation of residents. The research is applied in nature and employs a mixed-methods approach (quantitative–qualitative). Data were collected through structured questionnaires and semi-structured interviews and analyzed using SPSS and MAXQDA software.

Results and Discussion: The findings revealed that the social impacts of the project were dual in nature: on the one hand, it led to increased security, improved accessibility, and strengthened sense of place attachment; on the other hand, it weakened traditional neighborhood relations and reduced social capital and organized participation. Economically, the most significant outcome of the project was the increase in property values, while indicators such as employment opportunities, government support, and local business activity showed no significant change. The comparison of quantitative and qualitative data indicated consistency between the results. Overall, the findings suggest that the regeneration of informal settlements can lead to sustainable improvement in living conditions only when social and economic dimensions are considered alongside physical aspects and the perspectives of different generations of residents are simultaneously taken into account.

Origional Article Sustainable Urban Development

Beyond the Game: Examining Sports Events as Catalysts for Sustainable Urban Behavior and Identity in Tabriz

Articles in Press, Accepted Manuscript, Available Online from 04 December 2025

Ali Zeynali Azim, Bagher Dast Ahanin, Ramin Nemati

Abstract With the shift in urban management approaches from infrastructure-oriented to people-centered planning, sports events have emerged as new socio-cultural platforms capable of fostering sustainable behaviors, strengthening urban identity, and enhancing civic engagement. The present study aims to investigate the role of citizens’ experiences with sports events in shaping supportive behavior and sustainable urban identity in the city of Tabriz. The research employed a descriptive–analytical method and utilized structural equation modeling (SEM). The statistical population comprised all residents of Tabriz (N = 1,653,827), and a sample size of 384 participants was determined using Cochran’s formula. Data were collected through a 41-item questionnaire and analyzed using SPSS, AMOS, and EQS software packages. The results of confirmatory factor analysis indicated that among the dimensions of sports experience, the athletic dimension exerted the strongest impact on sustainable urban identity perception (path coefficient = 0.35), whereas the psychological–social dimension showed the weakest influence (path coefficient = 0.25). The coefficient of determination (R²) for sustainable urban identity was 0.54, indicating that 54% of its variance was explained by the model. Furthermore, this perception accounted for 31% of the variance in citizens’ supportive behavior. Overall, the findings suggest that positive and repeated experiences of sports events can act as powerful cultural catalysts, significantly contributing to the enhancement of sustainable urban identity and the development of prosocial civic behaviors in Tabriz.

Article extracted from dissertations Sustainable Regional Development

The impact of globalization and urbanization on carbon dioxide emissions: In OPEC oil-exporting countries

Articles in Press, Accepted Manuscript, Available Online from 04 December 2025

Adeleh Abbasi seidabadi, Mohamag Mirbagherijam,, Ali Dehghani

Abstract 1. Introduction
Today, the expansion of the global phenomenon and the development of urbanization have significant effects on carbon dioxide emissions and environmental quality. Therefore, the purpose of this research is to examine the impact of globalization and urbanization in OPEC member countries.
2. Methods and Material
In this study, the generalized moments econometric model was used to examine the impact of globalization and urbanization on carbon dioxide emissions in OPEC oil-exporting countries during the period 2006-2022.

3. Results and Discussion
According to the Generalized Moment Model (GMM) estimation, the first pause in carbon dioxide emissions has had a positive and significant effect on itself. Globalization has had a positive and significant effect on carbon dioxide emissions. So that a one percent increase in globalization has increased carbon dioxide by 0.021 percent. Renewable energy consumption has had a negative and significant effect on carbon dioxide emissions. So that a one percent increase in renewable energy consumption has reduced carbon dioxide emissions by 0.16. Renewable energies are playing a larger role in the world's energy supply system. Renewable energies are essentially compatible with nature and pollute, so the use of renewable energies reduces carbon dioxide emissions. With a one percent increase in GDP, carbon dioxide emissions have increased by 0.013 percent. Urban population has had a positive and significant effect on carbon dioxide emissions. So that with a one percent increase in urban population, carbon dioxide emissions have increased by 0.03 percent. A one percent increase in government spending has increased carbon dioxide emissions by 0.11. Increased government spending on providing production infrastructure and updating production equipment, increased spending on education to strengthen the workforce leads to a reduction in carbon dioxide emissions.
4. Conclusion
Authors should highlight the key takeaways of the research, emphasizing the main contributions and their implications for policy, theory, or practice. This section may also include brief remarks on the limitations of the study and suggest directions for future research. Avoid restating results; instead, focus on their meaning and importance. Implementing constructive policies to increase energy efficiency in various sectors of the economy, including industry, transportation.

Origional Article Physical geogeaphy

The impact of climate change and geographical factors on the spread of fire hazards in Baneh trees (Paveh County)

Articles in Press, Accepted Manuscript, Available Online from 07 December 2025

Nader Moradi, Nasrin Sheydaei Majd, Hamideh Hatami

Abstract Background and purpose: Iran is one of the countries vulnerable to climate change and fires due to its location on the arid and semi-arid belt of the world and the high-pressure subtropical region. The phenomenon of fire is one of the environmental hazards that cause many casualties and damages to people, property and assets. Method: This research is based on descriptive-analytical nature and applied type. which has been done by reading books, articles and theses. The statistical population of the study is the geographical area of ​​Paveh city in Kermanshah province. which is based on field methods, tools and libraries and spatial data. Then the influencing parameters were prepared in Arc GIS software. In this research, 8 indicators (slope, slope direction, elevation classes (Dem), land use, wind direction, vegetation density, temperature increase, rainfall decrease) were identified as effective factors in fire. Then the information layers are prepared in the GIS environment. Findings: According to the research conducted and the observations of climate change and geographical factors of the study area, the results show that slope, vegetation, limited rainfall, and high temperature have the greatest effect on fires. The highest risk of fire is at the altitude of 1000-2000 meters, which is also the highest risk of fire on the southern and western slopes. Conclusion: In this research, using Sentinel 4 satellite images with color combination 4-8-14, which shows the image before the fire and at the same time as the fire. The area of ​​the fire area is estimated to be 1793 hectares. that the studied area is in a very high-risk category, and the results of the study indicate the high potential of the area in terms of causing fire hazards due to geographical and climatic factors. Therefore, the plan and map of areas with fire risk is a useful guide for crisis management.

Review Article Urban Planning

Developments of the city's cultural landscape theories in urban planning: A systematic review

Articles in Press, Accepted Manuscript, Available Online from 08 December 2025

Sayyedeh Marzieh Seyyedzadeh Kharazi, Mohammad taghi Pirbabaei

Abstract Background: The concept of "cultural landscape of the city" as an integrative framework for understanding the complex historical, cultural, social, and physical layers of cities has undergone significant theoretical developments since the early 20th century. This development has moved from a focus solely on the aesthetic and physical dimensions to the inclusion of intangible dimensions, social processes, and participatory approaches in urban governance.
Objective: This study aims to map the evolution of key theories in the field of cultural landscape of the city and explain how these concepts are integrated into urban planning paradigms.
Research Methodology: This study is a systematic review that was conducted by a structured search in the Web of Science database using keywords related to cultural landscape, urban planning, and theory evolution. Out of 1,085 initial articles, 75 articles were selected for the final analysis based on clear inclusion and exclusion criteria.
Findings: The findings show that theories of the city's cultural landscape have evolved from initial foundations emphasizing the relationship between culture and nature to multidimensional approaches, including the intangible dimension, participatory governance, and new urban visual technologies. The analysis of the historical distribution of sources indicates a significant increase in research from 2023 to 2025. Also, top journals and profiles of researchers active in this field were identified.
Conclusion: The evolution of theories of the city's cultural landscape shows a shift from a static and body-based perspective to a dynamic, multidimensional, human-centered, and integrated perspective. This evolution reveals the need to review the tools and processes of urban planning and governance for the dynamic protection of cultural landscapes in the 21st century.

Article extracted from thesis Regional & Urban Spatial Organization

Explanation and design of organizational sports development model for employees of the National Drilling Company (with a regional sustainability approach in Ahvaz)

Articles in Press, Accepted Manuscript, Available Online from 09 December 2025

Mohammad Hosein Zarif, Mohammad Hassan Ferdowsi, Zahra Hozhabrnia, Vahid Rafiei Dehbidi

Abstract Background and Objective: Considering the vital importance of human resources in the National Iranian Drilling Company, especially in the city of Ahvaz, and the exposure of employees to job stress and high workplace risks, it is essential to develop a local and comprehensive model for sports development. In this regard, the aim of the present study was to explain and design a model for the development of sports for employees in the National Iranian Drilling Company with a regional sustainability approach in Ahvaz. This research is applied in terms of its purpose and is classified as qualitative research in terms of its nature, and has been conducted with a data-based theory approach (grand theory).
Methodology: The statistical population of the study consisted of experts and employees familiar with the subject of sports and organizational development in the National Ahvaz Drilling Company with a regional sustainability approach, as well as academic experts in the field of sports management. The sample size was determined as 30 people using the purposive sampling method (snowball) and based on the principle of theoretical saturation. The data collection tool was in-depth semi-structured interviews that were conducted with the participation of sample members. Three stages of open, axial, and selective coding were used to analyze the data.
Results and Findings: The results of the study showed that sports development in the National Iranian Drilling Company is a comprehensive and cyclical system that has been formed around the main category of "model of sustainable sports development in the organization". This model was explained based on six paradigmatic categories (causal, contextual, interventionist, strategies and consequences). Causal and contextual factors initiate the development path, which then faces interventionist obstacles (political, financial, managerial). To overcome these obstacles, four key strategic roles (cultural-interactional, managerial-executive, financial and educational) were presented. The successful implementation of these strategies has led to four types of consequences (fundamental, health, structural and economic) that transform sports development from a cost to a strategic investment with high returns on health, vitality and productivity of human resources. This indigenous model provides a comprehensive framework for policymakers to promote sports into a systemic and managerial process.

Origional Article Physical geogeaphy

Article Title (Evaluation of Climatic and Environmental Potentials of Arshaq Region, Ardabil Province, for Rainfed Wheat Cultivation Using Decision-Making Methods

Articles in Press, Accepted Manuscript, Available Online from 28 December 2025

Behrouz Sobhani

Abstract Abstract
Abstract Background and Objective: Understanding climatic data and examining their effects on agricultural crops are among the key factors influencing site selection and, consequently, increasing production. The aim of this study is to evaluate the climatic and environmental potentials of the Arshaq region in Ardabil Province for rainfed wheat cultivation using the AHP and WASPAS decision making methods.
Methods and Material: uch as precipitation (annual, germination, tillering, wintering, regrowth, flowering, and grain formation), mean annual temperature, elevation, and slope were used based on a 30 year statistical period (1994–2023). The research process included data collection, statistical calculations and analysis using Excel, and determination of the weighted indices of the criteria through the Analytic Hierarchy Process (AHP) and Weighted Aggregated Sum Product Assessment (WASPAS) methods.
Results and Discussion: The data were analyzed using the AHP and WASPAS models. The research findings, utilizing the AHP model across the wheat growth stages, indicated that the most important effective factors for wheat cultivation in the Arshaq region were, in order of weighted criterion values: effective precipitation in the grain formation stage (0.195), precipitation during flowering (0.175), annual precipitation (0.132), and precipitation during germination (0.114). Based on the WASPAS method, the stations ranked as the most suitable for wheat cultivation in the Arshaq region were: Salavat (5.713), Khoshabad (5.219), Doustbeiglou (5.132), Qousheh Sofla (5.096), Kangarlou (5.026), Khalifehlou (5.023), Tazakand-e-Arshaq (4.928), Amirkandi (4.802), Arbabkandi (4.649), Samian (4.646), and Moshiran (4.374), respectively.
Conclusion: The final results of this study indicate that in over 60% of the Arshaq region, rainfed wheat cultivation is suitable and economically valuable, while in 25% of the area, cultivation is possible at a moderate to low level but still feasible.
Keywords: Climate, Arshaq region, rainfed wheat, and AHP, WASPAS, and GIS models

Origional Article Urban Tourism

Review and analysis tourist attractions for the development of geotourism using the M-Gam model (case study of Madhim city)

Articles in Press, Accepted Manuscript, Available Online from 28 December 2025

Mousa Abedini, Zahra Nazari gazik

Abstract Background and Objective: Geotourism is a type of tourism that studies the natural environment, shapes and landforms because of their attractiveness. Today, tourism is rapidly becoming one of the main pillars of economic, social, cultural and political development. Given this role and position, the existence of tourism in a place can not only be effective in the development of that place but also affect the development process of some indicators in its surrounding environment. The purpose of this research is to investigate and evaluate the tourist attractions of Darmin County (the land of historical castles) and find solutions to attract tourists and develop geotourism in the region. For this purpose, 8 geosites and tourist attractions (Abgarm Village due to its hot spring and the tomb of Sultan Ebrahim Reza, Lakhdarideh, Dushangan Tree, Mulla Emad Sand Hill, Hindalan Mosque, Tabas Asbad, Forg Castle and Torsh-Ab) were investigated.
Methodology: The present study is applied and descriptive-survey type in which the data collection method was documentary and survey using questionnaires of tourists and residents of the region. Also, the M-GAM model was used to analyze the data using SPSS.26, ARC GIS and Excel software.
Results and findings: The results showed that Darman County, despite its abundant and pristine tourist attractions, lacks suitable facilities to attract tourists; however, Qale Forg has the highest score in most of the indicators studied. Tourism values have the highest score with 0.875 and scientific-educational values have the lowest score with 0.396.

Article extracted from thesis Sustainable Urban Development

Modeling and explaining the factors affecting sports applications in the development of organizational sports (Case study: Ahvaz city)

Articles in Press, Accepted Manuscript, Available Online from 28 December 2025

Mohammadhosein zarif, Mohammadhassan Ferdowsi, zahra Hozhabrnia,, Vahid Rafiei Dehbidi

Abstract Background and Objective: The development of organizational sports (such as in Ahvaz Drilling Company) is a strategic necessity, not a welfare activity; as it directly affects the productivity, health and reduction of absenteeism of employees. Currently, the lack of a scientific model to understand the factors affecting this development in the local context of Iran has caused the failure of programs and waste of resources. Therefore, accurate modeling of these factors (infrastructure, culture and managerial support) is a fundamental step to develop and implement sports programs based on scientific evidence and tailored to the local needs of employees.
Methodology: In this regard, the main purpose of the present study is to investigate the factors affecting sports applications in the development of organizational sports, employees of Ahvaz City Drilling Company. The statistical population of the present study was 100 people selected as a statistical sample using Morgan's formula and studied. Data analysis was carried out through correlation analysis and structural equation modeling using SPSS and Smart PLS software.
Results and Findings: The results of confirmatory factor analysis (CFA) indicate a favorable overall fit of the organizational sports development model, as most sub-indices with factor loadings higher than 0.5 confirm the reliability and structural validity of the model for the five main factors (management, infrastructure, social, economic, and individual). This finding proves the strong ability of the model to measure the desired constructs. However, factor loadings with lower explanatory power were observed in some specific dimensions (such as investment sub-indices and some coach competencies), which indicates the need to strengthen and measure these dimensions more accurately in future research to increase the validity of the model in those areas. Also, divergent validity was successfully confirmed based on the Fornell and Larker criterion, which indicates complete conceptual distinction and independence between the five main factors of the model.
Keywords: Sports, sports development, sports application, PLS interpretive structural modeling, National Iranian Drilling Company, Ahvaz city.

Origional Article Urban & Regional Economic

The role of corporate governance in enhancing the impact of environmental investments on the operational sustainability of Iranian listed companies: a case study (Tehran Stock Exchange)

Articles in Press, Accepted Manuscript, Available Online from 29 December 2025

Reza Fatahi

Abstract Abstract
This study examines the impact of environmental investments (E) on the operational sustainability of companies listed on the Tehran Stock Exchange and examines the moderating role of corporate governance (G) in this regard. Given the increasing regulatory pressures and stakeholder expectations regarding social and environmental responsibility, understanding the mechanisms that translate these investments into sustainable performance is of critical importance.
The statistical population includes listed companies over a ten-year period (2013-2014) and the data are estimated using a fixed effects (FE) regression model and a system of simultaneous equations. The dependent variable (Y) represents operational sustainability (a combination of water and energy consumption and operating costs). The main independent variable is environmental investments (E) and the moderating variable is the corporate governance index (G).
The results of the baseline model showed that environmental investments have a positive and significant effect on the operational sustainability of companies. The moderation hypothesis showed that with increasing levels of corporate governance, the coefficient of the positive effect of environmental investments on operational sustainability is strengthened. This finding suggests that a strong corporate governance structure increases stakeholder confidence and improves the efficiency of environmental resource allocation. Finally, policy recommendations emphasize the need to strengthen transparency and accountability in management structures to maximize the returns from green investments.

Origional Article Urban Tourism

Analyzing and investigating the factors affecting how to attract more tourists using a multi-criteria decision-making approach

Articles in Press, Accepted Manuscript, Available Online from 31 December 2025

Mohammad barzgar, Mahdi Jahani

Abstract . Introduction: The tourism industry, as one of the largest and most important industries in the world and as a key component in the economic and social development of various regions, requires careful attention to the factors affecting it. This research has contributed to an in-depth understanding of the factors that affect tourists' decision-making to choose a destination and can be used as a roadmap for the sustainable development of the tourism industry in countries, especially developing regions. Finally, the findings provide suggestions for improving tourist attraction and developing tourism products.
Methods Conclusion and Material: The present study evaluates and ranks the most important factors affecting tourist attraction in four cities of Khorasan Razavi Province. Given the importance of tourism in economic development and job creation, identifying and analyzing the factors affecting tourist attraction is a fundamental necessity. The purpose of this study is to evaluate and rank the factors affecting tourism attraction in the cities of Neyshabur, Quchan, Sabzevar, and Chenaran.
Conclusion: In this study, the method of collecting information and data is done in two ways, in the first method, the information necessary for implementing the research is collected and evaluated through a questionnaire, and the second method includes library studies. Then, the main criteria are weighted using the fuzzy Soara method and the final ranking is done using the Kopras method. In this study, the cities of Neyshabur, Quchan, Chenaran and Sabzevar were examined and ranked based on natural, religious, historical, cultural factors, facilities and services. The results of the study show that the presented combined model has high accuracy and also Neyshabur city has the first rank in terms of examining the six criteria mentioned. Finally, according to the results of the study, suggestions have been made to improve the tourism situation.

Article extracted from dissertations Physical geogeaphy

Evaluating Eco-tourism and Geo-tourism Potentials of Pars Abad City

Articles in Press, Accepted Manuscript, Available Online from 03 January 2026

Aghil Madadi, Fateme Emamian, Fateme Taghavi-Nia, Parya nasiri

Abstract Background and Objective: Parsabad County, due to its diverse natural features and tourism attractions, has considerable potential for attracting both domestic and international tourists. However, inadequate introduction and promotion, insufficient access roads and directional signage, and limited infrastructure and accommodation facilities have resulted in many of its scenic areas remaining largely unknown, even to domestic visitors. Consequently, tourism activities in the region have not developed optimally. The present study aims to assess the ecotourism potential of Parsabad County with a focus on geomorphosites, including Oltan Castle, Qarlooja Tower, Aras National Park, Naderi Hill, and Qerkh-Pelleh, in order to enhance tourism development and attraction.
Methodology: This research is applied in nature and adopts a mixed methodological approach combining theoretical studies and field surveys. The evaluation of geomorphosites was conducted using the Pereira model, which enables a systematic assessment of scientific, aesthetic, cultural, and management values.
Findings and Conclusion: The results indicate that the evaluated geomorphosites obtained the following scores: Oltan Castle (11.45), Qarlooja Tower (11.165), Aras National Park (12.7), Naderi Hill (12.31), and Qerkh-Pelleh (13.7). Based on these scores, Qerkh-Pelleh ranked first, followed by Aras National Park in second place, while Naderi Hill, Oltan Castle, and Qarlooja Tower ranked third to fifth, respectively. Overall, the findings demonstrate the high ecotourism potential of Parsabad County. The results can provide scientific support for tourism managers and planners to develop effective strategies for sustainable tourism development and improved tourist attraction in the region
.Keywords :Ecotourism, Geo-tourism, Pars Abad City, Pereira model.

Article extracted from dissertations Regional & urban planning

Analysis of land use changes in Salmas and the effects of urban sprawl development (the case study: Salmas)

Articles in Press, Accepted Manuscript, Available Online from 04 January 2026

Hassan Mahmoudzadeh, Iraj Teymuri, Ali Babr nejad Garegheshlagi

Abstract Abstract
Background and Objective:   Rapid urbanization in developing countries, including Iran, has led to uncontrolled urban sprawl, resulting in the loss of agricultural lands, green spaces, and environmental degradation. In Iran, cities have experienced outward growth since the 1960s, exacerbating land speculation and horizontal expansion. Salmas, a medium-sized city in West Azerbaijan Province, has seen its built-up area nearly double over the past four decades, making it a prime case for studying spatio-temporal land use changes and sprawl impacts. The main objective of this study is to analyze land use changes in Salmas from 1368 to 1402 using Landsat satellite imagery, simulate future changes up to 1422 with the CA-Markov model, and evaluate sprawl effects using the Holdren Index. Hypotheses include: (1) land use changes have occurred in a sprawl pattern over the past three decades; (2) this development has caused specific environmental effects, such as reduced green spaces. Methodology:   Primary data included Landsat 5 (ETM+) imagery for 1368 (June 13, 1989) and Landsat 8 (OLI/TIRS) for 1402 (June 27, 2023), downloaded from USGS. Secondary data comprised land use maps from Salmas Municipality, population data from Iran's Statistical Center (1368-1402), and 1:25,000 topographic maps. Field visits validated training samples. Images were preprocessed in ENVI 5.3 (ROI clipping, radiometric calibration, QUAC atmospheric correction, geometric correction with GCPs achieving <0.5 pixel accuracy). Supervised Maximum Likelihood Classification (MLC) identified four classes: built-up areas (residential/commercial), barren lands, parks/green spaces, and agricultural lands. Post-classification, Majority/Minority filtering removed isolated pixels, with accuracy assessed via confusion matrix (Kappa >0.85). Changes were quantified using cross-tabulation matrices in ArcGIS 10.8 and annual change rates. The CA-Markov model in TerrSet 2020 generated transition probability matrices from Markov chains, suitability maps via Multi-Layer Perceptron with drivers (distance to urban centers, slope, rivers), and simulations for 1422 using Moore neighborhood (8 cells). Sprawl was measured with the Holdren Index, comparing urban area and population growth. Findings and Conclusion:   From 1368 to 1402, built-up areas increased from 538.29 ha (23%) to 1187.64 ha (50.8%), barren lands decreased from 1205.19 ha (51.5%) to 838.17 ha (35.8%), agricultural lands dropped from 525.96 ha to 182.7 ha (-65.26%), and green spaces rose from 69.21 ha to 128.97 ha (+86.34%). Change detection revealed 367.01 ha of barren lands and 343.26 ha of agricultural lands converted to built-up. Simulations for 1422 predict further sprawl: built-up to 1401.66 ha (+18.02%), barren to 747.24 ha (-10.84%), green spaces to 107 ha (-27.15%), and agricultural to 93.95 ha (-48.57%). The Holdren Index indicates 37% of Salmas' growth from 1368-1402 was due to sprawl, with population rising from 60,624 to 99,681 while urban area expanded disproportionately, destroying 343.26 ha of farmland. Conclusions emphasize promoting compact city models for sustainable development, integrating RS/GIS with predictive models to guide policy in medium-sized Iranian border cities like Salmas.

Origional Article Town and country planning (Spatial Organization)

Future research on parameters affecting security and sustainable development in the border city of Kamyaran

Articles in Press, Accepted Manuscript, Available Online from 05 January 2026

Fereydoun Batmani, Mohammad Raoof Heidari Far

Abstract Background and Objective: Border regions face serious security and development challenges. Rapid global changes have exposed these regions to new threats and opportunities. For this reason, foresight regarding these regions is of great importance. In this regard, the present study, with a futures approach, has analyzed the key role of parameters affecting security and sustainable development in the border city of Kamyaran.
Methodology: This research is applied in terms of purpose and descriptive-analytical in terms of method. Data collection tools are in the form of library sources and documents and survey (questionnaire). The research area is the city of Kamyaran. The statistical sample of this research is 40 experts in the field of urban planning and sociology.
Results and Findings: The Delphi method and the cross-effects matrix (Micmac) were used to analyze the data. The research findings showed that out of 27 parameters affecting security and sustainable development in border cities, 19 parameters were identified as key and influential, and these variables have the most and least impact on the future of security and sustainable development in the border city of Kamyaran. and finally, the results showed that in terms of direct impact, the parameters of terrorist threats, unemployment rate, and crime rate are in the first to third positions with scores of 71, 66, and 65, respectively, and the parameters that have an indirect impact on security and sustainable development in the border city of Kamyaran are terrorist threats, crime rate, and unemployment rate with scores of 160,403, 151,603, and 147,612, respectively. The general results of this research showed that the border city of Kamyaran is in a critical situation in terms of security and sustainable development. However, the findings of this study can serve as a valuable guide for decision-makers, planners, and investors to take appropriate measures to create a brighter future for this city.

Origional Article Sustainable Urban Development

Identification and Analysis of Factors Affecting Sustainable Local Development Around Tehran's Mosalla (Case Study: Abbasabad Neighborhood)

Articles in Press, Accepted Manuscript, Available Online from 01 February 2026

forough eskandarinasab, Farzaneh Sasanpour

Abstract Background and Objective: Urban megaprojects, as driving forces of transformation, play a decisive role in shaping the structure of cities; however, their impacts on the sustainable development of surrounding neighborhoods are complex and sometimes contradictory. The establishment of the Grand Mosalla of Tehran in the Abbas Abad neighborhood, in addition to significant physical changes, has led to the emergence of a paradox between economic prosperity and the quality of life of residents, which necessitates a scientific investigation of its underlying components. This study aims to identify and analyze the components affecting local sustainable development around Tehran’s Mosalla and to examine the interrelationships among these components.
Methodology: In terms of nature, the research is descriptive–analytical, and in terms of purpose, it is applied. Field data were collected through a researcher-designed questionnaire from 384 residents of the Abbas Abad neighborhood. To analyze the data and extract the latent dimensions of the project’s impacts, statistical tests including the t-test, factor analysis, and Pearson correlation analysis were employed using statistical software.
Results and Findings: The results of the factor analysis revealed that the impacts of the project can be classified into nine main factors encompassing infrastructural, economic, social, and environmental dimensions. Moreover, the findings of the correlation analysis indicated a significant relationship between infrastructural and economic growth and environmental challenges as well as demographic changes. In other words, although the presence of the Mosalla has led to increased employment, improved services, and physical transformations, this development process has simultaneously been accompanied by a reduction in green space per capita, increased pollution, and the displacement of the indigenous population. The study concludes that achieving sustainable development in this neighborhood requires managing the conflict between the components of economic growth and the preservation of environmental quality and social stability

Origional Article Urban Planning

Quantitative Analysis of Land-Use Change and Urban Development Patterns Using Spatial Matrices (Case Study: District 4, Tabriz Metropolitan Area)

Articles in Press, Accepted Manuscript, Available Online from 03 February 2026

Ferydon Babaei Aghdam, Alireza Omidpour, Para Karimzadeh

Abstract Abstract: In recent decades, urban areas have experienced significant spatial and physical transformations, largely driven by rapid horizontal expansion and land-use changes. Tabriz, as one of Iran’s metropolitan cities, has particularly witnessed unbalanced and scattered urban growth in District 4, resulting in various environmental and social consequences. This study aims to evaluate the spatial–physical expansion trends of District 4 of Tabriz. The research is applied in terms of purpose and descriptive–analytical in nature. Considering the unbalanced urban growth and increasing pressure on natural resources and agricultural lands, the study examines urban development patterns and proposes sustainable approaches for guiding and managing future physical growth.
Methodology: The methodological framework is grounded in Geographic Information Systems (GIS) and spatial matrix analysis. Core datasets—including land-use maps, road networks, and key indicators affecting urban development—were collected and processed in ArcGIS. The analytical indicators consisted of building density, horizontal expansion, land-use change, accessibility to urban services, slope, distance from major roads, and hazard zoning. These indicators were rasterized, normalized, and integrated using overlay and hierarchical analytical methods to generate development suitability maps, enabling a multidimensional evaluation of the district’s spatial potential and constraints.
Findings and Conclusion: Results indicate that District 4 has undergone dispersed and unbalanced expansion over the past two decades, with an annual growth rate of roughly 2.5 percent. The prevailing pattern is low-density horizontal sprawl, placing pressure on natural resources and undermining spatial cohesion. Building density is concentrated in central areas and along transportation corridors, whereas peripheral and newly developed zones display low density and limited access to services. Slope and hazard analyses show that while some areas possess high development suitability, others are at environmental risk. Overall, findings highlight the significant role of GIS and spatial indicators in monitoring and guiding urban growth. Redirecting development toward higher density, enhancing spatial equity in service accessibility, considering natural land capacity, and controlling horizontal expansion are recommended as key strategies for promoting sustainable development in the district.

Origional Article Urban Planning

Structural Analysis and Scenario Planning of Outdoor Thermal Comfort in Tabriz: A Climate-Responsive and Urban Ecology Approach

Articles in Press, Accepted Manuscript, Available Online from 03 February 2026

Iraj Teimouri, Maryam NajafAllilu, akbar Rahimi, Arife Karadagh

Abstract Urbanization and global warming have significantly affected the quality of urban life, particularly thermal comfort in outdoor spaces. Thermal comfort is a key determinant of public health, social cohesion, and urban livability. In Tabriz, one of Iran’s largest metropolises with a cold-moderate climate, rapid urban expansion, high building density, reduced vegetation, and inappropriate street orientation have intensified urban heat islands (UHI) and degraded outdoor comfort. This study aims to identify key drivers of thermal comfort and develop future scenarios for sustainable urban planning.A mixed-method approach was employed, combining quantitative and qualitative techniques. Data were collected through literature review, expert consultation (Delphi method), and structural analysis using MICMAC software. Thirty experts in urban planning, climatology, and environmental studies participated in the Delphi and scenario-building processes. Results revealed five critical drivers: urban heat islands, height-to-width ratio of streets, wind speed and direction, street orientation relative to prevailing winds, and vegetation cover. ScenarioWizard was applied to generate 15 plausible scenarios, ranging from desirable to critical futures. Findings indicate that increasing vegetation, reducing UHI, and designing streets aligned with wind flow significantly improve thermal comfort. Conversely, high building density and reduced greenery exacerbate discomfort.The study concludes that integrating climate-responsive design, scenario-based planning, and urban ecology perspectives provides a robust framework for enhancing thermal comfort in Tabriz. Policy recommendations include revising current urban management strategies, promoting green infrastructure, and adopting adaptive design guidelines.

Origional Article Urban Planning

Evaluation and development of a local sustainable smart city framework in Iran with a combined qualitative-quantitative approach (Case study: Shiraz city)

Articles in Press, Accepted Manuscript, Available Online from 10 February 2026

Mohammad Tavalaii, Ali Aram

Abstract 1. Introduction
Sustainable smart cities are presented as an integrated response to the complex challenges of twenty-first century urbanization, combining advanced information and communication technologies with economic, social, and environmental sustainability principles. In Iran, despite initial efforts toward smart city development, the absence of a localized, coherent, and context-sensitive framework has hindered effective and sustainable progress. This study aims to assess the current situation and develop a localized framework for a sustainable smart city in Iran, focusing on Shiraz as a case study.
2. Methods and Material
The research adopts a mixed-methods (qualitative–quantitative) approach. Data were collected through expert questionnaires for the Analytic Hierarchy Process (AHP), public questionnaires administered to citizens, and semi-structured interviews. The statistical population included academic experts, urban managers, and citizens of Shiraz.
3. Results and Discussion
Findings indicate that, within the Iranian context, the dimensions of “smart economy” and “smart mobility” are the most critical, with weights of 0.23 and 0.20 respectively, while “smart environment” and “smart living” occupy lower priority levels. The SWOT–TOWS analysis identified institutional, cultural, and technological challenges and formulated four categories of strategies to advance a sustainable smart city.
4. Conclusion
Ultimately, a localized three-layer framework was designed, consisting of: (1) an infrastructural–institutional layer, (2) a functional six-dimensional layer, and (3) an enabling layer. This framework emphasizes the synergy between technology, data-driven governance, and citizen participation. It can serve as an operational model for other Iranian cities seeking to implement sustainable smart city initiatives.
5. References
(References are available upon request.)

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

Assessing Land Use Changes in the Urmia Plain Using Landsat Satellite Imagery (1984-2020)

Articles in Press, Accepted Manuscript, Available Online from 10 February 2026

Farzaneh Saidpour, Alireza Jamshidi, khadijeh Javan

Abstract Background and Objective: The Urmia Plain, as one of the most sensitive ecosystems in western Iran, has undergone extensive land use transformations in recent decades under the pressure of anthropogenic activities and environmental changes. These changes can have irreversible consequences for food security, local livelihoods, and environmental health. This study aimed to identify and quantitatively analyze the trends of land use and land cover (LULC) change in the Urmia Plain over a 36-year period (1984-2020) using Landsat satellite imagery.
Methodology: This study utilized Landsat 5 (TM), Landsat 7 (ETM+), and Landsat 8 (OLI) satellite images from 1984, 2000, and 2020. After performing necessary preprocessing steps, supervised classification using the Maximum Likelihood Classifier (MLC) algorithm was implemented in ENVI software. Land use maps were extracted for six main classes (agriculture and orchard, rangeland, built-up, barren land, water bodies, and salt marshes), and their accuracy was assessed using an error matrix and the metrics of overall accuracy and Kappa coefficient.
Results and Findings: The results indicated that over the study period, the extent of agriculture and orchard lands (increasing from 22% to 26%) and built-up areas increased, while water bodies (33%) and rangelands (22%) experienced a concerning declining trend. Concurrently, the area of barren lands and salt marshes also increased. A comparison of the two time periods revealed that the degradation process has accelerated, particularly after the year 2000, leading to the establishment of a detrimental degradation cycle, which underscores the urgent need for revising management strategies.

Origional Article Urban Planning

Ecological assessment and analysis of the physical development of Dorcheh city

Articles in Press, Accepted Manuscript, Available Online from 10 February 2026

Ebrahim Barati, hosein EsmaeilZadeh

Abstract Background and Objective: The increasing growth of urban environments has brought environmental problems to cities in the 21st century. These problems have led to the instability of urban environments. Various approaches have been proposed to achieve urban balance and sustainability, one of which is ecological city. The aim of this research is to investigate the role of physical development and urban density in achieving ecological development in the city of Dorche.
Methodology: The research method in the present study is quantitative in terms of paradigm, applied in terms of purpose, and descriptive-analytical in nature. The method of data collection was library and survey; Shannon and Holdern entropy model was used to evaluate urban sprawl, and GIS and SPSS software were used to analyze the data.
Results and findings: The results of the research through the Shannon entropy model show that the value of H between 1390 and 1400 is 1.5165 and 1.4084 respectively and the value of Ln (7) is 1.9459 and the entropy coefficient has decreased between 1390 and 1400; the results of the Holdern model show that between 1335 and 1400, about 92 percent of the city's physical growth was related to population growth and 8 percent was related to the city's horizontal and spiral growth; therefore, the conditions for the formation of mixed and intensive use in terms of ecological structure are available in this city. Also, according to the studies conducted from 1390 to today (1404), urban growth has been controlled and the area of the city's boundary has decreased by 36 hectares compared to the area approved in previous plans, and the horizontal and irregular expansion of the city has been prevented; In fact, this change has caused the city to move towards a compact city. This type of growth is in line with its ecological potential and can contribute to the ecological development and sustainability of the city economically, physically, and socially.

Extract article from research project Urban Planning

The Impact of Global Megatrends on Urban Development Transformations (Spatial and Physical Dimensions) in the Metropolis of Tabriz

Articles in Press, Accepted Manuscript, Available Online from 10 February 2026

Yahya Behboudi, Mohammad Reza Pourmohammadi, Rasoul Ghorbani

Abstract Abstract
Background and Objective: Cities, particularly metropolises, in the contemporary era have undergone profound spatial and physical transformations under the simultaneous influence of global megatrends (economic globalization, technological advancements, accelerated urbanization, smart city development, vertical growth, and environmental sustainability) and domestic trends (expansion of informal settlements, emergence of high-rise construction and apartment living, deteriorated urban fabrics, inefficiency in urban land management, and infrastructural limitations).
This study, focusing on the metropolis of Tabriz — as one of Iran's historical, industrial, and cultural centers — examines the manner and extent of impact of these megatrends on the physical structure, spatial patterns, neighborhood identity, urban landscape, spatial inequalities, and overall quality of the urban environment. The primary objective is to identify points of conflict and interaction between global and local trends and to address the gap in integrated studies in this domain.
Methodology: The present research adopts a descriptive-analytical approach and is primarily based on the perspectives of local experts. Data were collected through a structured questionnaire. The respondent population consisted of 50 specialists and professionals active in the field of urban planning and development in Tabriz. Scores were collected on a 0–100 scale, averaged, and analyzed using multiple linear regression.
Findings and Conclusion: Descriptive results derived from the views of 50 urban planning experts and practitioners in Tabriz indicate that the impact of global and domestic megatrends on the physical structure and environmental quality of Tabriz is evaluated as moderate to relatively high (mean scores predominantly ranging between 62 and 73 on the 0–100 scale). The strongest consensus among experts centered on the following points:
- High-rise construction and skyscrapers have exerted a significant negative impact on the physical appearance of the city and its traditional identity (mean = 73). The current pattern of vertical development shows insufficient compatibility with the cultural and climatic characteristics of Tabriz (mean = 70.5).
- The expansion of informal settlements and deteriorated urban fabrics has acted as one of the most important factors generating socio-spatial discontinuity, urban inequalities, and spatial development incoherence (means ranging from 60.5 to 70). Tabriz and other Iranian metropolises still exhibit relative backwardness in the utilization of big urban data and smart city technologies (means ranging from 66.5 to 71.5). In contrast, modern technologies and urban smartization are assessed by experts as having high positive potential for improving energy efficiency, reducing pollution, increasing urban resilience, and enhancing overall urban environmental quality (means ranging from 67 to 72.5). Overall, global trends (vertical development, smartization, sustainability) and domestic trends (deteriorated fabrics, informal settlement, inefficient land management) in Tabriz simultaneously create both opportunities and challenges. Vertical development without cultural-local adaptation and the uncontrolled expansion of dysfunctional fabrics has severely threatened neighborhood identity, urban landscape, and social cohesion; meanwhile, smartization and emerging technologies can serve as key corrective levers for reducing spatial inequalities, enhancing resilience, and steering sustainable development. These findings indicate that the metropolis of Tabriz is at a critical stage of physical-spatial transformation.

Article extracted from thesis Urban Planning

Assessment and Prioritization of Urban Resilience with an Emphasis on Sustainable Land Consumption Management (Case Study: Oshan, Fasham, and Meygun)

Articles in Press, Accepted Manuscript, Available Online from 12 February 2026

Saeid Alibakhshi, Navid Saeidi rezvani, Kaveh Rashidzadeh

Abstract Background and Objective: Today, uncontrolled physical expansion and unsustainable land consumption are considered among the most significant threats to urban resilience. In mountainous and peripheral areas such as Oshan, Fasham, and Meygun, these challenges have intensified impacts due to specific topographic conditions and high ecological values. This study aims to evaluate urban resilience with an emphasis on sustainable land consumption management in these three areas.
Methodology: The research method is descriptive analytical, and the data were collected through questionnaires distributed among 45 experts in the fields of urban planning and environmental studies. For assessment and prioritization, the Combined Compromise Solution (COCOSO) multi-criteria decision-making method was applied, in which nine indicators across three dimensions environmental physical, economic infrastructural, and institutional social were incorporated into the model as evaluation criteria.
Results and Findings: The results indicate that Oshan ranks first in terms of urban resilience, with a score of 3.074, reflecting more successful management of land consumption patterns and the physical structure of the city. Fasham and Meygun rank second and third, with scores of 2.379 and 1.560, respectively. This situation reveals relative weaknesses, particularly in Meygun, in sustainable land management and an increased level of vulnerability to hazards. These findings underscore the necessity of adopting a prioritization-oriented approach in urban policymaking, so that through targeted allocation of resources to lower-ranked areas, the overall level of regional resilience can be enhanced.

Article extracted from thesis geographical information system

Spatial modeling of the spread of the Covid-19 virus in a GIS environment

Articles in Press, Accepted Manuscript, Available Online from 16 February 2026

Hossein Jabari, Hosein Nazmfar, Mohammad Hasan Yazdani

Abstract Perhaps one of the biggest and most dangerous diseases for urban life in the current century is the Covid-19 pandemic. Spatial pattern analysis and risk analysis is a suitable tool in the diagnosis and weather of epidemics and can be understood and help public health diseases. Spatial analysis methods of Geographic Information System (GIS) were used to examine the relationship between the initial statistics of the Covid-19 virus data and the analysis and analysis of spatial patterns in 62 neighborhoods of Khoy city. Therefore, using spatial statistics analysis tools, the spatial distribution pattern was examined and analyzed. The research method is descriptive-analytical; the aim of this study is to use spatial statistics methods to analyze and analyze the use of the Covid-19 spatial virus from the beginning of 2010 to the end of 2023. In order to analyze and analyze spatial patterns, spatial autocorrelation statistics, Moran cluster analysis, global local cluster analysis and identification of hot spots were used. The spatiotemporal pattern showed that the global Moran autocorrelation is highly clustered and less than 1% is likely to be a random cluster pattern. Local Moran autocorrelation statistics for hot and cold spots showed that the northwestern neighborhoods of Khoy city have a high-high clustering (aggregation) feature and the neighborhoods of the western part of Khoy city are hot spots with a 99% confidence level and the southern neighborhoods in the Valiasr township are cold spots for COVID-19 with a 99% confidence level. Comparison of multiscale geographic modeling with other models showed that apart from the performance index with a negative effect; the social and economic, environmental, communication network and physical indicators have a positive effect. Results The degree of dependence index (DOD) of the research data improved with 90% spatial dependence and the R^2 coefficient from 58% to 64% in the multiscale regression model.

Origional Article Urban Tourism

Identifying income-generating (economic) factors affecting the development of horse tourism in Khuzestan Province

Articles in Press, Accepted Manuscript, Available Online from 22 February 2026

maryam khajavim, Hamidreza Ghazlesaflo

Abstract Background and Objective: Economic development of horse tourism in Khuzestan, relying on the purebred Arabian breed, is a strategic solution to move beyond the oil economy, create rural employment, and improve provincial infrastructure. This approach, by creating a value chain and attracting foreign exchange earnings, turns Khuzestan into an international hub for sports and commercial tourism. In this regard, the present study was conducted with the aim of identifying income-generating (economic) factors affecting the development of horse tourism in Khuzestan province.
Methodology: The present study is organized in two phases: qualitative (identification of indicators through interviews) and quantitative (weighting using the SIWEC method). The aim of this approach was to extract and accurately rank the factors affecting the research topic, relying on the knowledge of experts in the field of tourism and equestrianism in Khuzestan province. The process of selecting participants in different sections was also carried out based on purposeful and judgmental sampling to ensure the richness of specialized data.
Results and Findings: The research findings show that the development of horse tourism in Khuzestan requires a logical hierarchy in which investment and finance, with priority given to banking facilities, act as the cornerstone and most vital economic driver. Secondly, specialized infrastructure and border trade, with an emphasis on modern transportation and global registration of native breeds, provide the necessary physical and diplomatic platforms for a revenue leap. Finally, job creation and event prosperity are secondary outcomes that will only be achieved if the macro strategy changes from traditional approaches to establishing investment security and export-oriented development.

Origional Article Urban Planning

Explaining the relationship between water stress and social resilience in Khuzestan Province

Articles in Press, Accepted Manuscript, Available Online from 24 February 2026

saeid Amanpour, nilofar azarbarzin, Mahnaz Hosseinisiahgoli

Abstract Background and Objective: Khuzestan Province has always faced numerous challenges in the field of water resources due to its climatic and geographical conditions. These challenges, known as water stresses, can have widespread impacts on various aspects of social life and reduce the resilience of society to crises. The aim of this study is to investigate the relationship between water stresses and social resilience in Khuzestan Province using the structural equation modeling (SEM) method.
Methodology: The present study, with a statistical population of 4,710,509 citizens of Khuzestan Province, selected and examined a sample of 386 people using the Cochran formula. The research instrument was a researcher-made questionnaire with confirmed content (face) and construct validity and acceptable composite reliability. The data were analyzed using correlation analysis and structural equation modeling methods using SPSS and Smart PLS software.
Results and Findings: The results of structural equation modeling indicate a strong and significant relationship (p<0.05) between water stress indices and social resilience. In other words, these findings show that with increasing water stress, social resilience in the studied community decreases. In addition, the model fit indices also show that the data are well consistent with the conceptual model of the research and the model has the necessary fit. This strengthens the validity and reliability of the modeling results and confirms that the proposed model is able to correctly explain the relationship between the variables under study. Finally, comparing the correlation coefficients shows that the environmental index and then the institutional index have the strongest relationship with the social resilience index and water stress. Also, the results of the PLS test showed that among the water stress indicators, the environmental indicators with a score of 24.828, the economic indicators with a score of 21.762, and then among the social resilience indicators, the institutional index with a score of 21.677 and the social index with a score of 20.145 ranked first to fourth, respectively, and this indicates the impact of water stress indicators on social resilience in Khuzestan Province.

Origional Article Urban Planning

Evaluation and ranking of the components of empowerment of dilapidated structures by improving social status (Case study: Harsin city)

Articles in Press, Accepted Manuscript, Available Online from 25 February 2026

Ali ghobadi, Mahshid Sehizadeh

Abstract Background and Objective: Today, dilapidated urban textures are not only considered a physical and structural challenge, but due to the accumulation of deficiencies, they have become a platform for weakening the collective identity and degrading the social status of their residents. In new approaches to regeneration, the transition from purely physical renovation to "community-based empowerment" is an inevitable necessity; because the sustainability of any urban intervention depends on restoring human dignity, strengthening the sense of belonging, and restoring self-esteem to citizens who must themselves be the main agents of change and development in their living environment. The purpose of the present study is to evaluate and rank the components of empowering dilapidated textures with the approach of improving the social status of citizens in the city of Harsin.
Methodology: The present research is of an applied type and is descriptive-analytical in terms of methodology. The statistical population of the research consists of 30 experts and specialists related to the field of urban planning, urban decay and urban management. The data were collected through a questionnaire and the SAWIC multi-criteria decision-making model was used to analyze and rank the factors.
Results and Findings: The results of the study show that in the dilapidated context of Harsin, "social degradation" has surpassed physical challenges, and the socio-cultural dimension, with an emphasis on reducing damage and improving security, has the highest priority over the economic and physical dimensions. These findings prove the necessity of changing the paradigm from "physically-centered" to "human-centered" and show that physical and management interventions should only play a facilitating role. Therefore, success in empowering this context requires a strategic focus on recreating the identity and promoting the social status of residents before any physical renovation.

Rural Planning

Identification and Prioritization of the Tourism Businesses Major Routes for Region Rural of Jiroft Townshop Using Fuzzy Operators

Volume 2, Issue 3, Autumn 2021, Pages 1-20

Seyed Reza Hosseini Kahnoj, Hamdollah Sojasi Qeidari, Ali Akbar Anabestani, Ali Shahdadi

Abstract Exploration the main routes of tourism is an approach to determine the pattern of travel density in order to boost rural tourism businesses. The present study, using fuzzy operators in GIS, deals with the zoning of major tourism routes that have a significant impact on the success of related tourism businesses. The research method is descriptive-analytical using GIS and multi-criteria decision making models. The results show that the villages which are located in four tourist attraction poles. These routes can be modeled as the main traveled rural destinations. Continuously, by using four forms of routes, tried to assess the facilities along the routes and the tourism destinations, the natural and human attractions of each route, based on the target villages and the status of tourism businesses in the villages located on these routes. The results of this step showed that the route number one, with the best distance from the positive (0.1875) and negative (0.0678) ideals and the degree of proximity (0.7346), gained the highest score (main road to Sultan Seyyed Ahmad Shrine).

Urban Planning

Geographical analysis of indicators and examples of a happy city with emphasis on Ray Oldenburg's third place theory (Case Study: Khorramabad city)

Volume 7, Issue 1, Winter 2026, Pages 44-72

Kamran Dolatyarian, Muhammad Hassan Yazdani, Atta Ghafari Gilandeh, Kamran Dolatyarian

Abstract Background and Aim: Third places are active and attractive public spaces that provide the context for interaction, recreation, personal growth, stress reduction, creativity stimulation, and social vitality in cities. The purpose of this study is to geographically analyze the indicators and examples of a happy city with an emphasis on Ray Oldenburg''''s third place theory in the city of Khorramabad.
Methodology: The research method is descriptive-analytical and survey-type. The statistical sample of the research consists of 400 citizens who were selected by simple random sampling using Sample Power software. Data collection, classification, and analysis were performed using SPSS and AMOS statistical software.
Results and Discussion: The findings of the study showed that Khorramabad city is in a weak position in terms of the dimensions and criteria of a happy city. Also, the results obtained from the structural equation modeling of the study showed that the economic factor with a factor load of 0.082 has the greatest impact on happiness. After that, environmental, physical-spatial, security and socio-cultural factors with factor loads of 0.076, 0.073, 0.071 and 0.063 were determined in the next ranks of impact on social happiness. In addition, it was determined that the third places, which include parks, sports centers, cafes, libraries and mosques, each have an impact of 0.071, 0.044, 0.043, 0.027 and 0.020 on social happiness in the selected area. Finally, based on the integrated path analysis model of the research, the effects of third places on the social vitality of Khorramabad city were determined to be 0.063.

Social Planning

In Research of a Conceptual Model of the Idea of the Right to the City in Urban Policy

Volume 1, Issue 2, Winter 2021, Pages 67-84

Masume Eshtiaghi, Mahmoud Sharepour

Abstract Development paths in any society are more the result of choices and decisions that are made as a result of policy-making practices. In recent decades, rapid urban changes and the resulting crises have drawn attention to the field of urban policy. On the other hand, the unequal forms and distribution of resources and opportunities to the detriment of most individuals and social groups living in cities have led the critical theorists represent the demands of the citizens based on the concept of ‘right to city” against policy makers and decision makers of the city issues. To city policymakers and decision makers. The purpose of this article is to understand the concept of the right to the city in the field of policy and planning of urban issues and transfer it to urban experts and try to implement this idea in the field of urban policy and planning. In the present article, an attempt has been made to recognize and analyze the relationship between the two concepts of the right to the city and urban policy, using the theoretical framework presented by Lefebvre on the concept of the right to the city and the researchers' approach to urban policy. The research is descriptive-analytical based on qualitative method. Methods of data collection include selection of documents, thematic analysis of the views of experts and thinkers on the selected topic. According to the findings of the present study, urban policy-making is the most important area for bargaining about the ways of distributing benefits and opportunities in cities by urban stakeholders, which is the reason why  is why the need for citizens to be present in decision-making and Urban policymaking layers. The neglect of institutional mechanisms, capacity building, transparency, accountability, the use of participatory budgeting and participatory planning, has made democratic decision-making difficult and relatively impossible for as the most serious stakeholder’s citizens in urban life. Strengthening civic and social institutions and creating mechanisms for monitoring and citizen participation in the decision-making process regarding the selection and implementation of metropolitan projects, along with the use of participatory budgeting in how the city invests capital, are among the items that: In that can practically lead to practice, it can lead to the realization of the right to the city in the administration of cities.

Urban Planning

Efficiency of Fuzzy Algorithms in Segmentation of Urban Areas with Applying HR-PR Panchromatic Images (Case Study of Qeshm City)

Volume 1, Issue 2, Winter 2021, Pages 35-47

Heeva Elmizadeh, Hadi Mahdipour Hossein-Abad

Abstract The process of urban development is like a fuzzy process; Therefore, fuzzy segmentation and urban space monitoring using HR-PRS panchromatic images is one of the best tools in urban management and planning. In this study, panchromatic images of GeoEye-1 sensor related in the urban area of Qeshm has been used for analyzing the application of operation of the methods of fuzzy segmentation and clustering. Thus, for analyzing the operation of algorithms of FWS, MSA, IDF and CFM and using MATLAB software, 6 qualitative criteria has been described in three spatial categories, radiometric and spatial-radiometric. Using these methods and based on fuzzy characteristics, the input images have been fused and then, with application of fuzzy clustering method, and fusion output, which has a fuzzy nature, Thus, this article appears to study the segmentation of urban area. The result of the research confirms the efficiency of the suggested segmentation methods in terms of recognition of phenomena and man-made and spatial effects and exact exploitation of the information of satellite images. The method of FWS discloses the best performance in terms of segmentation of urban areas. Therefore, according to the research results, the use of clustering algorithms and fuzzy features is a suitable and optimal method for integrating HR-PRS satellite image information from urban area with the aim of segmentation.

Sustainable Regional Development

Investigating the Motivational Factors of Health Tourism in Lake Urmia

Volume 1, Issue 1, Autumn 2020, Pages 40-54

Pakzad Azadkhani, Akram Imanfard, Azam Soltani

Abstract Investigating and analyzing motivations of tourists are some of the most important sections in tourism industry with the purpose of giving appropriate services to the travelers. Health tourism is a type of tourism which plays a main role in tourism development. Lake Urmia is one of the best tourist attractions from natural and adventurous view. Therefore, we can provide the conditions for the growth of tourism and regional development in different aspects with an approach of resource conservation if we recognize the potential of this area and make strategies for future. In order to do it better, it’s required to recognize the motivations of the tourists. So, the main aim of this paper is to investigate the motivations of tourists in Lake Urmia. The population of research includes all the travelers to Urmia City that 384 of them were chosen as the sample by the table of Krejcie and Morgan. The data was gathered by the use of questionnaires (with 0.925 Cronbach’s Alpha) of Alizadeh Sani et al. The questionnaires were given to the tourists by Cluster Sampling Method. To analyze the data, Confirmatory Factor Analysis was done in SPSS software. The findings reveal that 8 repulsive motivational factors of gain of knowledge and cure for diseases, increase of communications, thinking and taking advice, pursuit of peacefulness, increase of social cycle, sightseeing, meditations and getting to know with other cultures and also 4 attracting motivational factors of easy and various access to services, adventures, history and culture, and events and activities are recognized as the most important motivational factors among health tourist of Lake Urmia

Town and country planning (Spatial Organization)

Investigating the Role of Natural Hazards and Crisis Management in Land Management (Case Study: Kermanshah Province)

Volume 1, Issue 1, Autumn 2020, Pages 55-76

Mohammad rauof Heydarifar, Esmail Solimani rad, Mahnaz Hosseinisiahgoli

Abstract Natural hazards are threatening accidents that cause a lot of human and financial losses. These dangers are not limited to the time of occurrence, but because of the social consequences that will affect the people of the region for years to come. In such cases where the effects of natural hazards are manifested in human life, such hazards are referred to as natural disasters and the role of these hazards in urban planning is important. The purpose of this study is to investigate the role of natural hazards and crisis management in land management in Kermanshah province. The present research is a combination of "descriptive-analytical" methods in terms of applied purpose and according to the nature of the subject and the studied components, the approach governing the research process. Data collection and data has been done in two forms of "documentation and survey" and to analyze and weigh data from the FAHP model and GIS ARC software (GIS) to investigate the distribution of natural hazards.Findings from the study show that in terms of natural hazards (earthquake, flood, drought, landslide), %54 of the province in low and very low risk,%21in moderate risk and finally8.36 The percentage is in a very high risk situation.The results indicate that in terms of natural hazards (earthquake, flood, drought, landslide) Kermanshah province is in a moderate situation.

Sustainable Urban Development

Vulnerability analysis and zoning of natural geomorphological hazards (Flood and earthquake) of Kermanshah province

Volume 2, Issue 1, Spring 2021, Pages 17-36

Sharyar Khaledi, Ghasem Farahmand, Afsane Ali Bakhshi

Abstract One of the accidents that occur suddenly and leads to damage to humans and the environment are known as natural hazards. These risks, due to their unexpected nature, in most cases cause a lot of financial and human losses. Among natural hazards, earthquakes and landslides are among the most devastating hazards. These hazards are more severe and harmful in urban communities due to greater population concentration. Therefore, identifying areas that are more vulnerable to natural hazards can be effective in planning to mitigate the effects of these events. The aim of this study is to zoning vulnerability to natural hazards of landslides and earthquakes. Applied research is practiced and its method is descriptive-analytical; the required statistics and information have been collected through library studies and remote sensing data. Findings show that in the zoning of Kermanshah province about fault lines and rivers, relatively high altitude and high slope, the central parts of the province have a high potential for flooding and vulnerability to natural earthquake risk.one of the most important parts of this area of ​​Kermanshah city as the center of the province. For the process of location and building cities of the province, elements such as distance from fault lines and the spots of landslides are less considered. Therefore, this leads to insecurity and vulnerability while natural events take place.

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