Journal of Sustainable Urban & Regional Development Studies (JSURDS)

Abstract Background and Aim: Cooperatives are the most democratic organizations on earth, whose members are the main owners, and it is expected that cooperatives can make the most of this valuable feature. The purpose of the current research is to investigate and provide solutions to increase the participation of cooperative members in the affairs related to the cooperative companies of Ahvaz city.
Methods and Material: This research was done with quantitative approach, survey method and using questionnaire technique to collect data. Based on Cochran's formula, 350 people were selected from all the members of the cooperatives as the sample size. The sampling method was a multi-stage cluster. Data analysis was done using spss software version 22.
Results and Discussion: The findings showed that there is a difference between managers' views on the importance of members' participation, the level of information about the programs related to cooperative affairs, the level of information about meetings related to cooperative affairs, the level of satisfaction with information on cooperative affairs, satisfaction with the managers' performance, There is a significant relationship between the willingness of managers to participate in meetings, the encouragement of managers to participate in meetings, and the awareness of members about the benefits of participating in cooperative affairs with the participation of cooperative members. However, there has been no significant relationship between the amount of capital of the members in the cooperative and the amount of their participation. Also, the step-by-step regression results showed that the variables of the amount of information about cooperative meetings, the importance of members' participation, and the level of satisfaction with managers' performance had the greatest contribution in explaining the participation of cooperative members in the affairs of cooperative companies. And in total, they explained 80% of the changes in the dependent variable, which indicates a very high level of explanation.

Abstract Background and objective: Geotourism is one of the branches of tourism that emphasizes geomorphology, hydrology, and geology of potential destinations and geosites, and its goal is to increase the economic power and welfare of host communities and destinations. The aim of the present study is to study and evaluate the impact of geotourism dimensions on economic development in villages of Khalkhal County (Case study: Majolan, Khojin, Kazaj).
Methodology: To evaluate the studied villages, Kobalikwa models, which emphasize scientific, educational, economic, conservation, and additional criteria, and the Violet model, which examines geotourism areas based on four criteria: origin of formation, geographical distribution, tourism, and accessibility, were used.
Findings and conclusions: The results obtained from the Kobalikwa model showed that Khojin village has taken the first place with a total score of 12.25, and the geographical diversity and biodiversity dimensions of this village have had a greater impact on the regional economy and have led to the economic development of Khojin village. Also, based on the results obtained from the Feyolt model, the village of Kazaj received an average score of 0.75 in the management rate section and an average score of 0.68 in the tourism rate section, and has taken the first place. Also, the geographical diversity and socio-political dimensions of this village have had the greatest impact on the regional economy and have increased economic power through the expansion of tourism in the region. Therefore, it is concluded that the villages of Khalkhal County have a high geographical diversity and in this respect can have a significant impact on the development of geotourism and the development of the regional economy. Finally, it is suggested that the effectiveness of geotourism dimensions in areas with potential potential be evaluated using various and new models.

Abstract Background and Aim: Urban parks as one of the public spaces are considered as one of the most important parts of urban environments due to having various social, economic, and ecological functions. This research tries to identify the criteria effective on the design of urban parks with the approach of citizens' satisfaction and then prioritize them for Misagh Park.
Methods: To conduct this study, 364 questionnaires were randomly distributed among the target population (applicants) to improve the results in the spring and summer of 2017. In this investigation, the questionnaire questions were set in four parts, in the order that in the first part related to personal information, social, economic, and environmental trends, in the second part functional indicators, in the third part social indicators and in the fourth part Visual quality indicators were evaluated.
Findings and Conclusion: The results of the Karskal Wallis non-parametric test showed that the difference between the answers of 364 questionnaires regarding the 16 variables investigated in this study is significant at the 0.01 level, and the results of comparing the averages of the investigated variables showed that the variables of playground safety, vegetation According to the respondents, the number of sports spaces, attractiveness of lighting, recreational spaces, visual quality, quality of lighting and quality of sports spaces do not have a favorable condition, but the variables of feeling of security, access to the main street, access to the city, access to park places. According to the respondents, the flooring of the park is in a favorable condition. The results of this study can be very effective in the design of urban parks with the aim of improving the satisfaction of citizens.

Abstract Background and Aim: Future research is the way to face and prepare for different situations of occurrence of an event in the future. Looking to the future and drawing the perspective of the crisis and challenges of water scarcity in West Azarbaijan province are among the challenges facing managers, planners and executive and managerial officials of the province. Considering the complexity and ambiguity of different future states, future research studies in strategic planning are necessary to prevent water crisis and create problems and conflicts. It seems; Because it has a wide range of possible futures in front of it.
Methods: The main goal of the research is future research and scenario writing of the main and key factors and challenges affecting the water crisis in West Azarbaijan province. This research is applied in terms of purpose and descriptive-analytical in terms of nature, which is based on library and field documents (questionnaire). which has been classified, compiled and prepared according to the basic and existing studies in the field of water crisis in the two sectors of production-water supply and water supply and demand. In this research, GIS-MIC MAC-SENARIO WIZARD-EXCEL software were used. A researcher-made questionnaire was used to collect data, the validity and reliability of which was confirmed. Also, the statistical population of the research is the experts, specialists and experts of the water domain of West Azarbaijan province and its statistical sample is 15 of the experts and experts of the said domain. Data were analyzed using MIC MAC software.
Findings and Conclusion: It was determined that nine indicators (the state of temperature in the province, the state of management of runoff and surface water in the province, the state of preservation of wetlands, reservoirs and lakes in the province, the state of harvesting and exploitation of water from wells with Permits and permits in the province, the amount of water entering the province from neighboring countries, the status of entitlement to border waters of the province through water diplomacy, The degree of dependence of the neighboring provinces on the production products of the province, especially agriculture, the status of training and extension programs among the farmers of the province, the rate of land use change to irrigated agriculture in the province) are effective. Also, in the analysis of possible situations facing the province, two scenarios were obtained as strong scenarios with high compatibility.

Abstract Introduction
Urbanization has triggered massive development activities which led to significant changes in land use and land cover (LULC). Fundamentally, the changes in LULC have to be monitored to detect the presence of regional environmental changes and impacts. Reducing the suburban area of arable lands, destruction of vegetation, and increase of land surface temperature in urban areas, and the effects of rising temperatures are some negative consequences of urban development, building street and other malicious activities within cities. This research aims to use remote sensing to assess the consequences of destruction, and changes in land use in the city of Mashhad, was performed, and this project is trying to focus on determination and comparison of its negative effects on vegetation loss and increase of temperature and the response of city management to these changes.
Methodology
The methodological framework adopted in this study involved different analytical processes of Landsat imagery to examine the effects of the LULC changes on land surface temperature. Satellite images for 1979 from Landsat 5 Thematic Mapper (TM) and Landsat 8 Operational Land Imager and Thermal Infrared Sensor (OLI-TIRS) for 2009 and 2023 were obtain and were used to analyze the changes in LULC in Mashhad. All the images were selected based on the clarity of the images with less cloud coverage; moreover, the images were all captured in the month of May for the
corresponding years. In this study, Orthorectification of images for 1987 and 2009 and 2023 in this study area, which has a geographic coordinate system, was carried out by the ILWIS software capabilities, and by using affine method. Then, using resampling on bands related to 1987, their sizes were equal to the bands of 2009. Vegetation map of the study area, using satellite data and remote sensing techniques were developed. For this purpose, a vegetation index called Normalized Difference Vegetation Index or NDVI was used.
Results and Discussion
The results showed that Based on the classified the uneven distribution of LULC in Mashhad varied by year. The built-up areas expanded tremendously in almost every part of city within 36 years. This pattern was also associated with the loss of vegetation cover as the built-up category took over the green space on a large scale. However, the land use pattern in 2009 displayed an exceptional fluctuate trend of vegetation and built-up areas dispersion. From the map roughly, there was a conversion of built-up area into vegetation land from 1979 to 2009. But in 2023, it appeared plausible that the previous barren lands which was categorized as built-up areas had turned into green space for urban agriculture or urban park. Referring to the map, it was apparent that the largest transition of vegetation cover into built-up areas occurred from the central towards the north of Mashhad. In general land-use patterns can directly impact the generation of heat in the urban climate. The identification of NDVI and LST parameters could provide useful information regarding the environmental changes for sustainable urban development and management. Hence, it can be concluded that a relative increase in urban ambient air temperature in Mashhad, therefore, vegetation is changed, which can be regarded as the negative effect of land use change in this city; but due to the development of green spaces, the process of destruction has decreased in recent years.
Conclusion
Conjointly, rapid urbanization in Mashhad city led to the occurrence of regional heating based on the increase in LST value. Therefore, sufficient allocation of vegetation and water body in the city is recommended as a measure to reduce urban heat generation. Of course, because the development of green space has reduced the speed of changes, proper and timely intervention prevents the situation from escalating. Of course, such interventions should take into account all national and local conditions. So the study further recommends that additional factors like other LULC indices, socioeconomic variables, and other factors could be considered in future studies to produce more sturdy conclusions regarding the surface climate impact study.

Abstract Background and Aim: Today, the role of land use on urban traffic has been proven for everyone. Creating any type of user will generate and attract travel. In the development of uses, the access road and parking should be planned in such a way that entry and exit are possible with the least negative impact on the traffic network.
Methods: This article aims to investigate the impact of the uses located around the city squares on the traffic flow and the rate of accidents. First, the accidents occurred in a certain period of time were obtained from the traffic police department of the city. Then, the squares with the highest accident rate were selected as a statistical sample in the city of Mehriz. The coordinates of the collisions around those two squares were obtained from the archived forms of the traffic city police accident experts, then they were loaded in Google Earth software and finally, they were analyzed by field observations.
Findings and Conclusion: The results showed that most of the points of collision and interference happened in the marginal parking area of ​​commercial-service uses and with the area of ​​influence from the whole city that have not even provided the minimum parking area specified in the approved detailed plan of this city. Therefore, for any request for creation, development or change of land use, its traffic impacts must be checked in addition to complying with the established principles and criteria.

Abstract Background and Objective: Due to climate change and the increasing global demand for energy, there is a growing need to reconsider energy consumption approaches and enhance efficiency. One of the proposed solutions in recent years is the implementation of green roofs, which have been shown to positively impact energy consumption in buildings by reducing heat transfer, providing shading, and controlling pollutants. The performance of green roofs is influenced by various factors, one of which is the type of vegetation used. This study aims to investigate the effect of different vegetation types on building energy consumption in cold climates.
Method and Materials: This research is a descriptive-analytical study. A one-story residential building in Tabriz was selected for the study, and three types of vegetation—Vinca, Frankenia, and Sedum—were chosen for the green roof. Energy simulations and evaluations of the building's thermal behavior were conducted using DesignBuilder 7.0.2.004 software.
Findings and Conclusion: The results indicated that the use of Vinca, Frankenia, and Sedum vegetation on the green roof reduced energy consumption by 4.2%, 3.9%, and 3.8%, respectively, compared to a building with a conventional roof. Among the tested species, Vinca proved to be the most effective green cover for extensive roof gardens in reducing building energy consumption. Green roofs in Tabriz’s climate present a practical and sustainable solution for reducing energy consumption in cold and dry climates. The results confirm the positive impact of green roofs on building energy optimization in this climate.

Abstract Background and Aim: Adapting to quality operations in the 4.0 industry has become one of the most important challenges of recent industries; because in order to compete and survive in markets that are compatible with the advanced technologies of the Fourth Industrial Revolution, industries are forced to use high-quality, innovative and intelligent systems of this revolution. The main objective of this study is to analysis and assessment the challenges of adapting quality management operations in the Northwest region rubber industry to the 0.4 industry.
Methods: The research method is based on the purpose and method of data collection of the applied-descriptive type and in terms of analysis, qualitative (Delphi) and quantitative research (statistical test and multi-criteria decision-making technique). The statistical population of this study is experts and specialists of companies active in the rubber industry with sufficient knowledge of the quality management system, especially the dimensions and challenges of the industry 4.0, whose number is assumed to be unlimited due to their unknown nature. In order to access a sufficient sample, questionnaires were designed online and provided to the subjects. The number of samples required to test the main hypothesis of the research: ("There is an inappropriate gap between the current and desired state of quality management 4.0 in the industry") and to appropriately assess the challenges through the Morgan and Krejci sampling table is 384. Finally, after continuous follow-up by the researcher, supplementary questionnaires for 395 experts were provided online in Excel software. In order to identify key challenges in the industry, the Delphi method was used and fifteen indicators were confirmed. Paired comparison tests and t-statistics were used to examine the current and desired state.
Findings and Conclusion: The results showed that the industry is in a favorable situation in seven challenges and is somewhat far from the desired situation in eight challenges, which requires serious attention and planning from managers; but overall, the industry's situation is somewhat favorable in terms of all challenges. Finally, the SWARA technique was used to rank the challenges in terms of importance for coping. The output showed that the fourth key challenge (lack of skills) with the highest weight is ranked first, and the thirteenth challenge (cybersecurity and data protection) and the first (lack of management support) were ranked second and third. Also, the fifteenth challenge (internet speed) was ranked last with the least importance. Finally, practical suggestions were presented to the industry.

Abstract Background and Objective: Landscapes and urban green spaces, especially urban parks, are considered to be one of the most important urban spaces, due to the importance of the continuity of activity in urban parks at night, the obstacles in the mentioned process should be identified. Lighting is the attraction of the night landscape of city parks.
Methodology: To obtain the required data from reliable library sources, observation, questionnaire and semi-structured interview, the questionnaire consists of 4 indicators and 21 components. 315 people participated in the questionnaire section. The semi-structured interview questions were also taken from the 4 indicators in the questionnaire, which were asked in the form of four questions, and 27 people participated in this section. To analyze the data obtained from the questionnaire and the semi-structured interview, respectively, the mean score and the structural analysis method were used, and in the section of combining quantitative and qualitative data, the combined research method was used.
Findings and Conclusion: The results showed that lighting in the entrances and sidewalks of urban parks play an important role in the direction of beauty, readability, security, safety and vitality of these places. In general, it can be said that proper lighting adds beauty to city parks at night, increases security and safety, increases the legibility of city parks, and makes cities livable during the day and night, which in It brings the ultimate dynamic night scene in cities.

Abstract Background and Aim: The exclusion of some urban fabrics from developments leads to the development of processes that over time deplete such fabrics. Islamshahr, as a city that has been a victim of injustice in urban development on the scale of Tehran, has gradually become the host of emerging deteriorated urban spots. Therefore, in recent years, urban regeneration plans have been undertaken to deal with the spread of this type of fabrics. But during this period of regeneration, the process of fabric deterioration of this city has not stopped yet and continues at the previous pace.
Methods and Material:  In this study, we tried to identify the key drivers of system evolution in order to regenerate by structurally interpretive analysis of production processes and reproduction of deteriorated fabrics. Based on this, through library studies and environmental scanning, 24 variables were selected as the main actors of this system. Then, using the Delphi matrix method, interactions by 25 experts in this field were introduced into MICMAC software.
Results and Discussion: As a conclusion of the research, it can be stated that "rules and regulations" along with the effective variable of "financing" by the three pillars of government, urban management and residents, provide the driving force of the system and the variables "private incentive to invest", "belonging" "Residents" as well as "property" are strategic variables for the development of the system that can create a sustainable regeneration along with the desired social security and retention of indigenous inhabitants for these areas by evolving the system towards the desired situation and stopping the processes of reproduction.

Abstract Background and Aim: Cultural-heritage tourism is important in representing the identity of its society as a distinctive aspect of the culture of any society. Visitors' dissatisfaction with the infrastructure disrupts the nature of the heritage. Therefore, paying attention to the category of tourism infrastructure to promote awareness, provides one of the effective grounds for the development of cultural-heritage tourism. The Takht-e-Soleiman World Heritage Complex welcomes domestic and foreign tourists every year due to its luxurious capital located in the city of Takab in West Azerbaijan province, but it is centralized in terms of the quality of tourism infrastructure.
Methods: The present study seeks to answer the question "What are the indicators of the quality of infrastructure in the field of heritage cultural tourism?" It deals with the role of infrastructure. Also, the answer to the question "From the tourists' point of view, what is the quality status of each of the cultural-heritage tourism infrastructures in the Takht-e-Soleiman World Heritage Area?" was investigated in explaining the achievement of the principles of tourism development in this valuable complex. The research method was analyzed as a mixed (qualitative-quantitative) applied type using structured questions in a five-point Likert format in SPSS software and 57 internal and external variables of 7 levels were identified to investigate the problems in the quality of infrastructure.
Findings and Conclusion: The results showed that most of the points of collision and interference happened in the marginal parking area of ​​commercial-service uses and with the area of ​​influence from the whole city that has not even provided the minimum parking area specified in the approved detailed plan of this city. Therefore, for any request for creation, development, or change of land use, its traffic impacts must be checked in addition to complying with the established principles and criteria.

Abstract Background and Aim: The COVID-19 outbreak began in late 2019 and rapidly spread globally. The main objective of this study is to investigate the spatial distribution of the coronavirus disease in the five districts of Ardabil city.
Methods and Material: The research is applied in terms of purpose and descriptive-analytical in terms of nature and method. Spatial statistics methods in Arc GIS software were used to analyze the results. The data collection method was library-based, and the statistical population of the study consisted of individuals infected with coronavirus disease in the five districts of Ardabil city in 2020. Statistical methods including central mean, standard deviation ellipse, and nearest neighbor analysis were used to investigate disease distribution patterns.
Results and Discussion: The results show that the spatial distribution of coronavirus disease in different districts of Ardabil city was heterogeneous. In district one, the values are (z-score: 7.72) and (p-value: 0.000), and the distribution of patients was observed as dispersed and regular with a high concentration in the central part of the city. In district two, the values are (z-score: -4.96) and (p-value: 0.00001), showing a clustered pattern with the disease spreading from southwest to northeast. In district three, the values are (z-score: -0.52) and (p-value: 0.6013), and the distribution of patients was random in the northeast direction. In district four, the values are (z-score: -1.96) and (p-value: 0.094), with a clustered distribution of patients from south to north. In district five, the values are (z-score: -3.24) and (p-value: 0.0011), exhibiting a clustered pattern spreading from east to west.

Abstract Background and Objective: Historical sites and buildings are considered to be among the most important urban spaces that can play a significant role in sustainable urban development. Accordingly, the purpose of this study is to investigate the factors affecting the role of historical buildings in urban tourism.
Methodology: To collect data, library resources were used to write an introduction and semi-structured interviews were conducted in two stages to achieve research indicators. In the first interview, the experts were asked to introduce the main actors and important goals related to the research objective. In the next stage, after forming the actor-actor matrix and the actor-goal matrix, they were provided to the experts and they were asked to complete the aforementioned matrices according to the guidelines. After collecting data related to the actors and targets affecting the research objective, actor-actor and actor-target matrices were formed and then provided to the experts in Word format. They were asked to indicate the actors' effects on each other with the numbers 0, 1, 2, 3, and 4, where 0 indicates no effect and 4 indicates the most effect. Then, they were asked to indicate the actors' level of agreement and disagreement with the goals through the numbers 0, 1, 2, 3, 4, -1, -2, -3, and -4, where 0 indicates no opinion, 4 indicates the most agreement, and -4 indicates the most disagreement. After entering the experts' opinions into the MACTOR software, analyses related to the desired topics, such as the most influential actors and other required items, were conducted, and the results obtained were used in the present study.
Findings and Conclusion: The results showed that the Cultural Heritage and Tourism Department and the Islamic City Councils were recognized as the most influential and competitive tourism actors and experts, and tourism and travel service companies were recognized as the most impressive actors. Also, installing advertising banners on historical buildings throughout the city was identified as the most important goal by the actors. In general, it can be stated that decisions made in the Department of Cultural Heritage and Tourism, Islamic City Councils, and municipalities have the greatest impact on the planning process for a better role for historical monuments and sites in urban tourism, as well as the performance of other actors related to the aforementioned process. Therefore, the three mentioned bodies must put specialized decisions on their agenda that are in line with the conditions of the region in question, so that these decisions serve as a bridge of communication and a guide for other actors in carrying out their roles. Also, history experts, archaeologists, urban planners, urban tourism experts, and tourism and travel service companies, as other players in the planning process, must strengthen their connections and make consistent decisions so that these decisions complement each other and prevent obstacles and problems from occurring.

Abstract Background and Aim: Today, with climate change and global warming, we are witnessing destructive environmental effects, including the water crisis. Therefore, paying attention to water as an important element for human survival in the category of planning and urban design is quite a tangible thing. The purpose of this article is to achieve important indicators of a water-sensitive city and create an optimal model for the city of Yazd.
Methods: According to the review of the research background, most of the research has examined and evaluated the city with respect to the water-sensitive city approach. In some cases, the localization model is presented, and in the present article, the evaluation and localization model are targeted. However, the method and presentation of the model are different. In this article, an attempt has been made to use a different method to present the model. This model can be used as a basis for further research.
Findings and Conclusion: More precisely, it can be said that the factors adopted for the criteria of a water-sensitive city have been accepted by confirmatory factor analysis. Which itself is a new method in this field. In addition, the suggestions provided are comprehensive and practical. Which is suitable for use by all organizations, researchers, relevant departments, and even foreign researchers in the world who deal with the socialization of the water issue with the aim of changing the behavior of urban consumers.

Abstract Background and Aim: Background and Aim: In order to create a healthy society for further development, resorts and tourist areas must be created, developed and maintained to meet the ever-increasing demands of the people. On Ibn Ali in Tabriz is one of the main tourist areas of Tabriz city. The purpose of this research is to identify and evaluate the factors affecting the satisfaction of foreign tourists of this resort.
Methods: The statistical population of the study consisted of non-local tourists who visited the Aoun Bin Ali resort. The non-random sample size was calculated using Cochran formula of 380 people and finally the collected data was analyzed using SPSS 25.
Findings and Conclusion: Based on the factor analysis, the independent variables were classified into four factors (social supervision, safety of the promenade, legibility of (path, quality of access) and the dependent variable was classified into three factors (picnic facilities, quality of furniture and sports facilities of the promenade). The result of the regression analysis also showed that the factors of resort security and quality of access could significantly predict the satisfaction of 40% of tourists with the resort, with quality of access having the largest influence (0.50) on the level of satisfaction. The results of analyzing the age status of tourists in On Ibn Ali resort showed that most tourists are young respondents. Therefore, the plans should be more tailored to the tourism needs of this age group and the tastes of these people, as well as to the environmental strength and potential of the tourism area, since in each age group the individual and social characteristics of a person are different and express particular leisure needs. There are obvious differences between the leisure needs of young and older people Understanding the factors that influence foreign tourist satisfaction provides designers and resort managers with useful information for planning new resorts.

Abstract Background and Objective: This study evaluated the geotourism capabilities and potentials of Nir County, located in Ardabil Province. This county has high geotourism capabilities due to its location on the slopes of Sabalan and Bozqosh. The development of the geotourism industry in this county can be a driver of sustainable economic development in the region. The purpose of this study is to analyze the geotourism and geomorphological potentials of Nir County in Ardabil Province.
Methodology: In Nir County, there are two geotourism axes: Bulaghlar and Saein. In the present study, the geotourism capabilities of the aforementioned axes were evaluated using two models: Kobalikwa and Feyolt. The aforementioned models have numerous indicators that, in addition to geological-geomorphological aspects, also consider other factors such as cultural-historical monuments, access, management, and vulnerability.
Findings and Results: The evaluation of geotourism axes using the aforementioned models showed that the Bulaghlar region has higher geotourism potential for several reasons. In this context, we can mention geomorphological diversity (geodiversity), the presence of numerous hot springs, beautiful and lush nature, proximity to the Nirchai and Balikhlochai rivers, proximity to the city of Nir, easier access, the presence of cultural-historical monuments, the display of local traditions through the holding of numerous festivals, favorable access to the Sabalan ranges, and similar cases. For this reason, the Bulaghlar region obtained higher scores in relation to most of the indicators of the models used. According to the results of the models, it can be said that two basic challenges, including the lack of protective measures and the limited infrastructure and service-welfare facilities, are among the most important obstacles to the development of the geotourism industry in Nir county.
Conclusion: The results show that the development of tourism and geotourism in Nir County is generally one-dimensional and that various aspects of geotourism such as scientific values, geomorphological diversity, geomorphological conservation, and sustainable development have been neglected. However, a multidimensional view of the geotourism industry with a conservation approach along with the development of infrastructure and facilities can significantly develop the tourism industry and transform the regional economy.

Abstract Background and Objective: Information and Communication Technology and competitiveness are mentioned as factors affecting economic growth in the last decade. In line with this discussion, the aim of this study is to examine the impact of information and communication technology and the competitiveness index on economic growth of selected developing and developed countries during the study period.

Research Methodology: The present study uses an applied approach that combines descriptive and analytical methods to create a complete survey. To facilitate this research, the analysis uses both cross-sectional and panel data methods. Cross-sectional data allows for the examination of variables at a single point in time across multiple subjects. In contrast, panel data includes multiple observations of the same entities over different time periods. It also analyzes panel data through the generalized method of moments.

Findings and Conclusions: The findings of this study emphasize the positive and significant relationships between information and communication technology, competitiveness index on GDP in developing and developed countries. In a way that is consistent with the literature on the subject. The findings also indicate that the effect of these two variables is greater in developed countries than in developing countries. Therefore, policymakers should consider the socio-economic factors and unique contexts of their countries to effectively use these dynamics for sustainable and inclusive growth.

Abstract Background and Aim: According to economic literature, excessive inflation (more than the sustainable level of inflation) destroys purchasing power, distorts economic decision-making, and leads to uncertainty in economic factors, while deflation (less than the sustainable level of inflation) can lead to a decrease in spending (consumption) and investment, and potentially stop economic growth. The aim of this research is to use the results obtained from examining the factors affecting the inflation rate in order to increase the efficiency of monetary policy and control inflation.
Methodology: In this study, time series econometric techniques (unit root and stationary concepts, variability models, and autoregression with distributed lags (ARDL) model) have been used. First, the stationary variables are examined by performing classical and nonlinear unit root tests with respect to structural failure. Next, the long-term relationship between the research variables is examined by the bounds test, and then long-term and short-term elasticities are extracted. Exchange rate fluctuations are also extracted by conditional heteroskedasticity models (GARCH) and then these variables will be entered as new explanatory variables in the autoregression with distributed lags (ARDL) model.
Findings and Conclusion: According to the results obtained, the two variables, the exchange rate volatility index and the degree of trade openness, are the most important determinants of the inflation rate in Iraq in the long run. Meanwhile, in the short run, the exchange rate volatility index does not affect the inflation rate. Exchange rate fluctuations can affect trade and investment between affect the international economy, because uncertainty in the exchange rate can stop foreign investment and affect export competitiveness, and also increase import inflation. The increase in the degree of trade openness causes global commodity inflation to quickly affect the Iraqi economy and increase the consumption costs of Iraqi citizens. Also, according to the results, the error correction coefficient is negative and equal to -0/36 Therefore, in each year, 0/36 of the imbalance in the inflation rate in one period is adjusted in the next period. It can be said that the adjustment towards equilibrium is carried out slowly, which depends on the macroeconomic environment of Iraq.

Abstract Background and Objective: Water security is strongly influenced by many factors including increasing urban population, economic development, changes in living standards, increasing water pollution, over-exploitation of groundwater resources, and climate change. The aim of the study is to evaluate the impact of hydrological index on water security index (WSI) in Qarasu sub-basins.
Methodology: In this study, hydrological index (H), per capita water, and water discharge were used to estimate the water security index. In other words, the water security index uses normalization to assess the sustainability of the watershed.
Results and findings: The results of the water discharge index assessment in the Qarasu watershed showed that the highest water discharge among the 27 sub-basins studied was related to sub-basin 1 at the Namin hydrometric station with a value of 560,196,073 cubic meters and sub-basin 23 at the Nanekaran hydrometric station with a value of 305,170,988 cubic meters. The results of the per capita water assessment in the Qarasu sub-basins showed that the highest per capita water for each person was allocated to sub-basin 20 at the Nooran station with a value of 957.9733,133 liters and in the next rank, sub-basin 18 at the Baroq station with a per capita water value of 914.9249,868 liters among the sub-basins studied. Therefore, it is concluded that the higher the hydrological index in the sub-basins studied, the more suitable the basin sustainability index will be. Finally, it is suggested that executive and management measures be implemented in some sub-basins that do not have a suitable hydrological index, as the Water Security Index (WSI) is very low in them, in order to witness the development of sub-indices in all the studied basins so that the Water Security Index takes an upward trend.

Abstract Background and Objective: Water security is the secure access to an acceptable amount of water of acceptable quantity and quality for production, life, and health, accompanied by an acceptable level of risk that has unpredictable water-related impacts on society. The aim of the present study is to prioritize the water security index in the northwestern regions of the Samian watershed in Ardabil province.
Methodology: The method of this study was to use and integrate hydrological, environmental, and life indicators to estimate the Water Security Index (WSI).
Results and Findings: The results of the hydrological index showed that the highest water flow rate was related to sub-basin 1 with a value of one, and the lowest water flow rate was related to sub-basin 5 with a value of 0.004. Also, after standardizing the values of these results, it was found that the highest per capita water with a value of one is allocated to sub-basin 3 and the lowest value is related to sub-basin 8 with a value of 0.07. The environmental index showed that the highest score is related to sub-basin 7 with a value of one and the lowest is related to sub-basin 5. Accordingly, the results showed that the highest water security index is related to sub-basin 1 with a value of 0.63, which indicates that this sub-basin is at a higher level in terms of the indicators studied. Therefore, it is concluded that the higher the level of the aforementioned indicators, the higher the level of water security. Finally, it is suggested that artificial intelligence tools be used in future studies to estimate water security.

Abstract Background and Objective: Optimal land use and physical organization of cities based on efficiency, environmental protection, social justice, and equitable access to services are among the primary goals of urban planning. Therefore, the location and spatial distribution pattern of urban land uses should be aligned with meeting the needs of all social groups, aiming to improve the welfare and comfort of citizens. In this context, qualitative and quantitative evaluation of land uses in the spatial structure of the city and examining their locational suitability across defined zones are of particular importance. Pharmacies are among the units that play a significant role in meeting the diverse needs of citizens in the fields of health, treatment, and wellness. Due to this role, their spatial distribution pattern greatly impacts the level of pharmaceutical service coverage. Given the inter-neighborhood nature of pharmacies, this study investigates their spatial distribution at the level of the municipal areas of Rasht city.
Methodology: To achieve the research objectives, various spatial analysis models within the ArcGIS environment were used, including hot spot analysis, frequency weighting, spatial autocorrelation analysis, population density in relation to the number of pharmacies, and Thiessen polygon analysis.
Findings and Conclusion: The results indicate a high frequency weight of pharmacies in areas 1-3, 3-2, and 2-2; a statistically significant condition in district 2-1 based on high Z-scores in hot spot analysis; a rate of 7.27 pharmacy units per 10,000 people in district 2-2; the representation of proximity-based pharmacy access through Thiessen polygon analysis; and finally, the outcome of spatial autocorrelation analysis showing a random distribution pattern of pharmacies across the areas of Rasht. Each of these findings reveals aspects of spatial distribution patterns across the city, which are discussed further in the full article.

Abstract Background and Objective: The spatial distribution of urban services is a key factor in quality of life and the realization of spatial justice. Centers offering goods and services related to visual health, in addition to their economic role, are also important from a public health perspective. With population growth and the physical expansion of Ardabil city, the need for proper organization of these services has increased. The aim of this study is to investigate the spatial distribution pattern and service coverage of eyeglass retail units in the city of Ardabil using the relevant capabilities and tools in the ArcGIS environment.
Methodology: This research follows a descriptive–analytical approach, and data were collected through both documentary studies and field surveys. The statistical population includes all visual health service centers across Ardabil city. Spatial analysis was conducted using geographic tools within the ArcGIS environment.
Results and Findings: Out of a total of 38 identified units, 34 are located in Region 1, while Regions 4 and 5 lack any such services. Districts 1-1 and 2-1 show the highest concentration. Cluster analysis revealed that District 1-1, particularly Neighborhood 08-1, constitutes a hotspot with a 99% confidence level, indicating that service density there significantly exceeds the city’s average. This high concentration can lead to congestion and unequal access. In contrast, in the fourth to seventh rings away from the city center, no units have been deployed in these areas. The Nearest Neighbor Index (0.215602) confirms a clustered distribution pattern. Therefore, targeted expansion of these services in underserved areas is essential to promote spatial equity and improve access for all citizens.

Abstract Background and Objective: Sports tourism, as a growing industry, can play an important role in the economic and social development of different regions. Khuzestan Province, with its diverse natural, historical, and cultural capacities, has a high potential for the development of this type of tourism. The aim of this study is to identify and prioritize the factors affecting sports tourism in Khuzestan Province.
Methodology: In this regard, the present study is applied in terms of its purpose and analytical-exploratory in terms of its nature and method. This study was conducted with an applied approach, using a descriptive-analytical method and collecting the opinions of 30 experts in the field of sports tourism through the Delphi method, and using the DANP technique and Excel software.
Results and Findings: In this study, 6 general indicators and 22 sub-indicators were identified that affect sports tourism in Khuzestan Province. Next, using the Danp technique, the influential indicators were identified and prioritized to determine which of these indicators have the greatest impact on sports tourism in Khuzestan Province. The results of his research showed that the development of this industry requires a multifaceted approach; so that management and planning factors play a key role as the main axis, influencing other factors. Also, socio-cultural, economic, marketing, infrastructure and environmental factors are significantly involved in this process. Along with these macro factors, the sub-indicators of a suitable climate, attracting foreign capital and social participation have been identified as the main drivers of the development of sports tourism in Khuzestan. These results provide a practical roadmap for policymakers and planners to focus on these key factors to provide the grounds for sustainable growth and prosperity of sports tourism in the province.

Abstract Background and objective: The cultural and historical artifacts left from various historical periods in the city of Khalkhal, along with its favorable geographical and strategic conditions, have undoubtedly highlighted its importance in the region. This Township, an area among valleys and mountains with abundant water resources, suitable pastures, and high elevation above sea level, has been a cradle of civilization and a center of population since ancient times. The locational conditions and ecosystem of the region had made it one of the most suitable places for the gathering and establishment of ancient settlements. In this context, the aim of this research is to examine the role of climatic and geomorphological factors of the region on the location of settlement sites using remote sensing and GIS capabilities. By examining and analyzing settlement patterns, one can study and analyze the relationship between sites and these patterns, as well as the overall geographical conditions of the region.
Methodology: The research method was descriptive and analytical, and the data collection tools were field and library methods. In line with the research objective, initially, 7 important settlement sites were selected as samples and the basis for the study. Factors affecting the site selection of the areas, such as the location of the areas in relation to water sources, elevation above sea level, vegetation cover, distance of the areas from roads and villages, distance from the city, soil type, regional faults, and land slope, were selected. The required layers were extracted using remote sensing data and processed in the Google Earth Engine environment.
Findings and conclusions: The results of the findings showed that a direct relationship exists between settlement patterns and sites, and the patterns have played a significant role in the formation of settlements. Most sites are located near and along water sources. An altitude of 1603 to 1960 meters, moderate vegetation cover, location along communication routes, proximity to or within villages, within urban areas, and a slope of 0 to 15 percent are among the most important indicators of the settlement patterns of sites from this period. Additionally, the soil types of the three sites are brown steppe soils, and in terms of the sites' positions relative to the regional faults, most of them are located at a distance of 2992 to 6791 meters. It is suggested that in future projects near these sites, attention should be paid to these factors.

Abstract Background and Objective: Walking, as one of the most important forms of sustainable transportation, has wide-ranging positive impacts across economic, social, environmental, and individual dimensions. In contemporary urban planning literature, it is considered a fundamental priority and, at the same time, a missing link in urban development. Pedestrian pathways, as some of the most significant urban public spaces, serve various functions, including leisure activities, daily shopping, social interactions, everyday encounters, environmental perception, strengthening place identity, and enhancing safety, security, vitality, and urban livability. In this context, the central fabric of the city of Ahvaz faces challenges such as narrow and irregular streets, weak urban infrastructure, fine-grained land parcels, decline in the function of local centers, shortage of service land uses, physical deterioration, increased traffic and noise pollution, as well as insufficient attention to pedestrian-oriented and green spaces. These conditions further highlight the necessity of urban regeneration and improving the quality of urban spaces.
Methodology: The research method, considering its theoretical–applied objective, is descriptive–analytical in nature. The required data were collected through both field and documentary methods. This study aims to evaluate citizens’ satisfaction with pedestrian spaces in the city of Ahvaz. The statistical population includes residents, shopkeepers, and users of the study area, and the sample size was determined using the Krejcie and Morgan method. Data were analyzed using SPSS software and the Friedman test.
Results and Findings: The results indicate that the physical dimension plays the most significant role in citizens’satisfaction, followed by social, economic, and finally environmental dimensions. Overall, the findings suggest that improving the quality of supporting spaces can effectively enhance citizens’ satisfaction and improve the performance of pedestrian networks in the central fabric of Ahvaz. Considering the importance of the physical dimension in increasing citizens’ satisfaction, it is suggested that in future pedestrianization projects, special attention be paid to the quality of façade design, urban furniture, lighting, and the improvement of urban edges, in order to enhance the visual and functional attractiveness of the space.
Given the relatively favorable level of citizen satisfaction with the social dimension, it is recommended that planning for the organization of cultural, artistic, and social events along this corridor be increased, so as to strengthen social interactions and citizens’ sense of belonging.