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Showing 193 results for Mohammad

Mr Mohammad Reza Salimi Sobhan,, Mrs Zahra Beygom Hejazizadeh , Mrs Fariba Sayadi, Mrs Fatemeh Qaderi,
Volume 24, Issue 75 (12-2024)
Abstract

In examining natural hazards, such as hail, statistical analyzes can play a significant role. Due to the great importance of economic and side losses of hail in the northern part of Zagros with maximum frequency and damage, the necessity of studying its temporal and spatial location is felt very distinctly. Therefore, in order to estimate and estimate the probability of occurrence of this phenomenon, 10 hail data data of 10 synoptic stations of the region were used during the statistical period of 2014- 1992. In choosing the best method for calculating the distribution of precipitation probabilities, different types of probability distributions of discrete random variables were tested by means of both Kolmogorov and Anderson-Darling testsThe results showed that the good Poisson distribution test had a good fit for hail occurrence at a high level of 90.99%. Baneh station with the maximum frequency of hail precipitation has the lowest probability (0.023%) and Pearnshahr station has the most probable days without hail (0.39%). Therefore, the probability of occurrence of hail in Baneh has a higher percentage. In the next round, the negative binomial model satisfies the observations of this type of precipitation well. The calculation of probabilistic distributions by these two methods showed that the probability of occurrence of hail with the frequency of 1 to 6 times and more in the region and the highest probability is related to the frequency of 3 occurrences of 0.20%. At a frequency of 1 to 6 times, the probability of occurrence of this phenomenon is 5 times more than the probability that it will not occur, which indicates the region's high vulnerability to this type of climate risk.

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Dr Mohammad Ebrahim Afifi,
Volume 24, Issue 75 (12-2024)
Abstract

Among the natural hazards, without a doubt, the flood is known as a natural disaster. In this research, Shannon entropy model was used to prepare a flood sensitivity map. First, 34 flood watersheds were selected from Firoozabad basin, and then these 34 points were classified into two groups. With 22 points, 65 percent of the points for training and modeling, and 12 points, 35 percent of the locations that were not used in modeling were used for validation. First, a map of the status of the floods was developed and Then, 10 factors, slope, tilt, lithology, land use, NDVI, SPI, TWI, altitudes, rainfall and distances from the river were selected as flood factors in Firoozabad basin. Prioritizing the effective factors in the occurrence of flood by Shannon entropy index showed that the NDVI layers (2.03), rainfall (0.00), distance from the river (1.89), SPI (385.1), elevation classes (999 (0/19), gradient with weight (0,932), lithology (478/0), TWI (379/0), and land use (280/0), respectively (0/184) have the highest and the least impact Flood events. Based on the results of the ROC curve, the predicted surface area under the curve with 35% of the validation data is equal (91.42%) and for the success rate with 65% of the equal education data (92.53%).
Saeed Jahanbakhshasl, Ali Mohammadkhorshiddoust, Fatemeh Abbsighasrik, Zahra Abbasighasrik,
Volume 24, Issue 75 (12-2024)
Abstract

 Assessing and predicting future climate change is of particular importance due to its adverse effects on water resources and the natural environment, as well as its environmental, economic and social effects. Meanwhile, rainfall is also an important climatic element that causes a lot of damage in excess conditions. West Azerbaijan Province is no exception. The aim of this study is to model and predict 30 years of rainfall in West Azerbaijan province. The statistical period studied is 32 years (2019-1987). Selected stations in the province include Urmia, Piranshahr, Takab, Khoy, Sardasht, Mahabad and Mako stations. Average slider time series models, Sarima (seasonal Arima), Health Winters were used for analysis and prediction and also linear regression and Mann-Kendall test were used to determine the data trend. The results show an increasing trend of precipitation in Urmia, Piranshahr, Khoy, Sardasht and Mako stations and a decreasing trend in Takab and Mahabad stations. According to the results of comparing the models used, the Health Winters model with the least error in the absolute mean of deviations, mean squared deviations and the percentage of absolute mean errors was introduced as the best precipitation forecasting model for West Azerbaijan province. province.                                     [A1] 


Mohammad Reza Heydari, Mehrdad Sadeghi, Ali Rashidpoor,
Volume 24, Issue 75 (12-2024)
Abstract

The purpose of this study is to present a model of religious tourism based on the art of taziyeh in Kashan based on structural equation modeling, based on a mixed exploratory approach. In the qualitative part, the phenomenological method was used and in the quantitative part, the descriptive method, correlation based on structural equations was used. The statistical population of this research in the qualitative part included professors and experts in tourism and condolence in Kashan, which was obtained after 15 saturated interviews. In order to evaluate the validity of qualitative data, structural, external, descriptive and interpretive validity were used and in order to evaluate the reliability, the three approaches of Rao and Perry (2003) were used. The results of qualitative research were extracted from 11 economic, strategic, development, research, organizational, technical, content, environmental and advertising dimensions. After examining the extraction of components, the quantitative part of the research was examined. Factor and content validity were used to evaluate the validity. The reliability of the questionnaire was used from Cronbach's alpha, which had the necessary reliability. Available was selected. The data obtained from the questionnaires were analyzed at two levels of descriptive and inferential statistics, including structural equations, through SPSS 22, LISREL 18.9 and Warp PLS 5 software. Findings showed that the most impact was economic dimension (impact factor 0.86) followed by cultural dimension with (0.79) and strategic dimension with (0.78).
 

Mr Masihollah Mohammadi, Prof Behrooz Sobhani,
Volume 25, Issue 76 (3-2025)
Abstract

Relative humidity is considered to be one of the most important climatic parameters and atmospheric phenomena. The purpose of the present study is to evaluate the regional algorithms for estimating relative humidity using remote sensing data in Hormozgan province. To this end, MOD05 and MOD07 products were employed to estimate total perceptible water, air temperature, and sea-level pressure Additionally, MOD35 was used for cloud verification, , resulting in the identification of 2190 cloudless images with 95% confidence level for analysis. radiosound data of Bandar Abbas ststion and synoptic stations Covering entire Hormozgan Province. were used to evaluate the results. The findings demonstrated high accuracy of the algorithms and experimental model, with acceptable R² and RMSE values between Modis product and ground data. These results align well with ground station measurements. The province's climate was determined to be semi-desert with a long warm season and a short cool period. Further analysis revealed a strong correlation between sea-level pressure and total perceptible water (TPW) with the region's topography. Maximum TPW and sea-level pressure values were recorded in coastal lowlands, while minimum values occurred in the highlands. Based on zoning maps, Hormozgan province can be divided into four regions based on relative humidity: from very dry conditions with less than 20% relative humidity in the highlands to humid areas with over 65% relative humidity along the coast.

Mohammad Baaghideh, Motahhareh Zargari,
Volume 25, Issue 76 (3-2025)
Abstract

The performance of broiler chickens is directly influenced by temperature changes and the occurrence of heat stress, whether it is cold or hot. The present study aims to assess the cooling and heating degree days in different stages of broiler chicken production in Khorasan Razavi province. To achieve this objective, daily average temperature data were collected from 13 synoptic stations during the statistical period of 1988-2018. Cooling and heating degree days were calculated for each week of production using specific thresholds, and their spatial distribution was analyzed. Furthermore, the relationship between cooling and heating degree days and geographical features was evaluated. The findings indicate a decrease in cooling degree days and an increase in heating degree days as latitude increases. The northern and western regions of the province exhibited a greater need for heating throughout all stages of broiler chicken production, whereas the eastern and southern regions had higher cooling requirements at different production stages. Overall, the northeastern, southern, and western marginal areas of the province, including Khaf, Gonabad, Kashmar, Sarakhs, and Sabzevar, exhibited the lowest cooling and heating needs during the 6-week period of broiler chicken production, making them suitable climates for this economic activity.

Mohammadreza Goodarzi, Maryam Sabaghzadeh, Amirreza Rajabpour Niknam,
Volume 25, Issue 76 (3-2025)
Abstract

In arid and semi-arid regions, groundwater is more important for humans and ecosystems than surface water. Land subsidence is caused by the pumping and uncontrolled use of groundwater in an area. When the extracted quantities are not replenished by rainfall, it leads to damages such as road failures, destruction of residential areas, railways, as well as water and gas pipelines. The Yazd-Ardakan plain is one of the main plains in Yazd province, hosting 75% of the province's population density and most industrial centers. Additionally, this plain has been subjected to a ban by the Ministry of Energy due to a sharp decline in groundwater levels. This study aimed to quantify and compare the extent of subsidence using four Synthetic Aperture Radar (SAR) images of the C-band from the Sentinel-1 satellite and the radar differential interferometry method from 2017 to 2021. The maximum subsidence recorded in 2017 was 13 cm, while in 2020 and 2021, it decreased to 9 cm, primarily concentrated in the Shamsi region between Meybod and Ardakan. Furthermore, to validate the satellite-derived results, they were compared with those obtained through accurate leveling methods conducted by the Iran National Cartographic Center. The study revealed that Sentinel images exhibit a strong capability to estimate the extent of subsidence. Considering the examination of groundwater consumption and depletion statistics in recent years, potential reasons for the reduction in subsidence in the study area could be attributed to management measures such as water transfer to this basin, alterations in agricultural practices, and a decrease in groundwater depletion compared to previous years in this region.

Mr Meysam Zekavat, Dr Mansoure Tahbaz, Dr Mohammad Reza Hafezi,
Volume 25, Issue 76 (3-2025)
Abstract

Buildings are the primary consumers of energy in the country, accounting for approximately 30-50% of total energy consumption. In our country, around 33% of energy is allocated to residential, commercial, and public buildings. The objective of this study is to examine the impact of a building's orientation on its energy consumption. The research is focused on the common 4 and 5-story residential buildings in District 5 of Tehran, specifically on Ferdous Sharq Blvd. The research adopts a descriptive-analytical methodology based on both organizational and field data collection. Six similar residential blocks in different lighting positions were selected to gather data. These blocks share identical characteristics in terms of land area, infrastructure area, number of floors, heating and cooling systems, and other factors. The only distinction among them is their location within a passage. Subsequently, Design Builder software was employed to simulate and compare their energy consumption. The findings of the research reveal that the average energy consumption, with a precision of 98%, for the northern blocks is 7,261 kilowatt hours per square meter per year, while for the southern blocks it is 11,247 kilowatt hours per square meter per year, and for the overall blocks it is 5,254 kilowatt hours per square meter per year. This is approximately three times the ideal building's energy consumption. The northern blocks consume about 5% more energy than the southern blocks. A block that receives light from three sides (north, south, and west) consumes about 11% more energy than the average, whereas a block that receives light from two sides (north and south) consumes about 5% less energy than the average. The north blocks have an energy label of D, whereas the south blocks, except for the end block that receives light from three sides (north, south, and west), have an energy label of C. Consequently, the south blocks generally demonstrate better energy consumption performance.

Mohammadsaleh Ekhlasi, Dr. Somayeh Soltani-Gerdefaramarzi, Dr. Abolfazl Azizian, Morteza Gheysouri,
Volume 25, Issue 76 (3-2025)
Abstract

In this study, we examined the impact of climate change on the virtual water content of key crops in Kerman province for future periods. Specifically, we utilized the climatic data from the HadCM3 model under the RCP4.5 radiative forcing scenario. The model was calibrated and validated for the base period of 1991-2011. We predicted the precipitation levels, as well as the maximum and minimum temperatures, for selected stations from 2011 to 2070 using data from LARS-WG. These predictions were then compared to the base period. The virtual water content was calculated for three selected crops: alfalfa, barley, and wheat. Our findings indicate that climate change has a significant impact on evapotranspiration and the performance of these crops, consequently affecting future agricultural water productivity. As we project an increase in average temperature during the growing season due to climate change, it is worth noting that the maximum temperature parameter will be more affected by this phenomenon than the minimum temperature. This, in turn, will lead to increased water requirements and plant evaporation-transpiration during this period. Our research also reveals a decrease in precipitation during hot seasons and an increase during cold seasons across all study stations. Notably, the virtual water content for all crops studied demonstrates an upward trend, with barley and wheat showing the greatest average increase in the future period. Specifically, the Kerman station exhibits a substantial increase in virtual water content for barley and alfalfa products, at a minimum of 30% higher than the base period.

Mohammad Ali Jamalizadeh, Abbas Masoudi,
Volume 25, Issue 76 (3-2025)
Abstract

Ancient cities have always possessed inherent distinctions from contemporary cities, which are evident in their physical structures and overall layouts, allowing them to be easily differentiated from their modern counterparts. These distinctions, influenced by economic, political, cultural, and social conditions, have resulted in varying degrees of change in the urban structure and have given rise to two types of urban growth. Organic growth is characterized by a continuous and coherent expansion that prioritizes form in relation to function, in stark contrast to the fragmented and discrete nature of global cities in the modern era. This study seeks to address whether it is feasible to apply the characteristics and developmental patterns of ancient cities in today's world by examining the evolution of urban form throughout history up to the present day. Alternatively, can a favorable outcome be achieved by integrating certain characteristics of ancient cities into contemporary urban environments? Based on this objective, the study explores the evolution of urban form across three historical periods - pre-Islamic, post-Islamic, and the modern era - with a particular focus on the establishment of governmental centers in the central desert of Iran. The comparative method of induction is employed to discuss the subject matter in line with the research assumptions. The findings indicate that the first and second hypotheses have yielded more significant results in a greater number of unsuccessful experiments. Conversely, the third hypothesis has been more successful in a wider range of experiments with diverse outcomes. Moreover, considering the success rate of 0.100 and the absence of unsuccessful experiences for the Kerman experiment, it can be argued that this hypothesis is relatively superior and preferable for assessing the success rate of related projects.

Abolfazl Meshkini, Mohammad Reza Bahrami,
Volume 25, Issue 77 (6-2025)
Abstract

In the process of urban space creation, there exists a continuous exchange of ideas concerning the current state of that space and the desired conditions as articulated by its inhabitants. Improvements in the challenging realities of urban environments are often manifested through physical changes, one of which is urban regeneration. Given the proliferation of urban regeneration projects in recent decades, it is imperative to consider the social dimensions inherent in these initiatives. In this context, social capital, recognized as a significant social asset within neighborhoods, has assumed particular importance in the discourse surrounding regeneration. This research examines the role of social capital in the regeneration of urban neighborhoods, with a specific focus on the Islamabad Karaj neighborhood. The methodological approach employed in this investigation is descriptive-analytical. The primary objective of this study is to analyze the influence of social capital on the regeneration processes within the Islamabad Karaj neighborhood as perceived by its residents. Data collection for the theoretical framework was conducted using documentary analysis, while the empirical component involved a survey utilizing a questionnaire. The statistical population comprises individuals aged 15 years and older residing in a neighborhood of over 25,000 inhabitants, from which a sample of 410 respondents was selected through simple random sampling, employing Cochran's formula. For data analysis, Spearman's correlation coefficient and multiple linear regression analyses were conducted using SPSS software. The findings indicate a strong correlation between social capital and urban regeneration within the Karaj neighborhood of Islamabad. The implications of this research highlight the necessity to focus on the components of social capital and to implement policies aimed at its maintenance and enhancement to facilitate successful urban regeneration in the Islamabad Karaj neighborhood.

Mis Ameneh Alibakhshi, Dr Mohammadreza Pourmohammadi, Dr Rasoul Ghorbani,
Volume 25, Issue 77 (6-2025)
Abstract

In recent decades, one of the main challenges in studies related to regional development is the search for understanding the economic and cultural differences between the national and regional levels in order to predict the transition that will lead to regional development. One of the systems that plays an important role in regional development is the regional innovation system. To this end, the aim of the present study is to identify the key drivers of regional innovation in the Tabriz metropolis. In this regard, the study is applied in terms of purpose and descriptive-analytical in nature. Two library and field methods were used to collect the required information. The statistical population of the study includes 32 qualified individuals in the industry, university, and government sectors who were selected as purposive sampling. The data were also collected from the Miqmac software for analysis. The research findings show that out of a total of 71 influential factors, 13 factors include an appropriate productivity culture, laws and regulations, the existence of a teamwork culture between activists and established industry units, information and communication technology infrastructure, sufficient funding for university research infrastructure, higher education, patent programs, higher education policy, performance evaluation and payment system, financial support, a special and flexible tax system for research and development, and research centers.

Majid Goodarzi, Ali Ashkboos, Behnam Mohammadi,
Volume 25, Issue 77 (6-2025)
Abstract

The intermediate development approach posits that vacant lands and the deteriorating structures within urban areas should be prioritized for development rather than expanding into the periphery of cities currently under construction. Acknowledging this significance, the present article endeavors to identify and prioritize the barriers to intermediate development in Zabol, utilizing Chang's technique. This applied study employs a descriptive-analytical research methodology, incorporating both library research and survey research (field studies) for data collection. The statistical population for identifying the obstacles to intermediate development comprised all residents of Zabol city in 2023. The sample size was calculated to be 384 using Cochran's formula, and a purposive sampling method was employed to gather the data. The reliability of the research instrument was assessed using Cronbach's alpha coefficient, yielding a value of 0.80. The identification of obstacles was conducted through a sample t-test in SPSS, followed by the prioritization of the identified barriers. Data were collected from existing information about the city and through a questionnaire distributed to 20 relevant experts. Subsequently, the data were analyzed using Chang's technique (AHP-FUZZY). The findings indicated that the most significant obstacle to the implementation of the intermediate development plan for Zabol city is the economic index, which received a final weight of 483.

Zahra Hedjazizadeh, Sayyed Mohammad Hosseini, Ali Reza Karbalaee, Shokofe Layeghi,
Volume 25, Issue 77 (6-2025)
Abstract

Drought is a natural hazard that annually causes significant economic, social, environmental, and life-threatening damage in vast areas of the Earth. The damages caused by this phenomenon are intangible but very extensive and costly.  In many circomstancs, modern remote sensing techniques can be a useful tool in monitoring drought due to high temporal accuracy, wide spectral coverage, ease of access, no need for atmospheric correction and ground referencing. In recent years, the province of Hamedan has faced many problems due to frequent droughts. Therefore, the present study focused on investigating and monitoring drought in Hamedan province using the Temperature Condition index and its impact on the vegetation cover of the province using Advanced Very High Resolution Radiometer (AVHRR) and National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) remote sensing data. First, the relevant data was extracted from the Nova star database, and finally, the spatiotemporal behavior of the vegetation cover drought index was examined on 1528 pixels in Hamedan province. The spatial resolution of the data used in this study is 4 kilometers. First, the relevant data were extracted from the Navstar database and ultimately, the spatiotemporal behavior of the drought index and vegetation cover was examined. The results indicate that drought has significantly increased the vegetation cover of Hamedan province based on remote sensing data. Kendall's coefficients indicate the presence of decreasing trends in vegetation cover at a 95 Percent confidence level. Only in May, June, and December has there been a slight decrease in vegetation cover within the extent of drought in the province. The spatial behavior analysis of the drought index on vegetation cover showed that February, March, as well as April have experienced more severe droughts within Hamedan province.

Rastegar Mohammadi, Mohammad Saligheh, Mohammad Hossein Naserzadeh, Mehri Akbari,
Volume 25, Issue 78 (9-2025)
Abstract

Extratropical cyclones, characterized by their frequency, duration, and intensity, serve as the primary drivers of mid- and high-latitude precipitation across the Mediterranean during the winter and autumn months. For this research, climatic variables obtained from the ECMWF network, featuring a temporal resolution of 6 hours and a spatial resolution of 0.25° × 0.25°, spanning from 1979 to 2016, were utilized. Additionally, precipitation data from four basin stations sourced from the Asfezari database for the same period were analyzed. Initially, geopotential height, temperature, humidity, and jet stream data for rainy days were extracted using MATLAB. Subsequently, a cyclonic center extraction algorithm was applied to identify cyclonic centers from the geopotential height data, based on the conditions that the geopotential height is at a minimum and the geopotential gradient is at a maximum. From the geopotential height matrix of rainy days (361×441×498), four distinct atmospheric patterns were identified through cluster analysis. The temporal and spatial frequency of these patterns, as well as the average temperature of cyclonic centers, were analyzed for the cold season months. The results indicated that the first pattern, identified as the Mediterranean trough pattern, is the most frequent, occurring 42% of the time. This pattern is characterized by the presence of a high-level system acting as a barrier, which deepens the low-level Mediterranean system and extends its axis toward the Red Sea. The interaction between low-level and high-level systems enhances instability, resulting in the highest precipitation levels among the identified patterns. Conversely, the fourth pattern, termed the western wind trough pattern, exhibits the lowest frequency at 10%. This pattern is characterized by a trough over the Caspian Sea; however, a high-level system in the southern region inhibits the entry of low-level systems, thereby confining cyclonic activity to the northern portion of the study area. Consequently, the isobars in the northern region assume a more orbital configuration, leading to a decreased influx of cyclones and, as a result, lower precipitation amounts compared to the other patterns. The analysis further revealed that cold-core cyclones accounted for 60% of occurrences in winter and 40% in autumn, while hot-core cyclones constituted 62% in winter and 38% in autumn. Notably, the frequency of hot-core cyclones increased relative to cold-core cyclones in winter, whereas an inverse trend was observed in autumn. Over the past decade, both the frequency and intensity of cyclones have diminished compared to the preceding two decades. In terms of cyclogenesis locations, the western part of the study area has consistently emerged as the most active region. Moreover, cyclogenesis activity exhibits a gradual increase from autumn to winter as the cold season progresses. These findings underscore the dynamic nature of extratropical cyclones and their significant role in shaping precipitation patterns across the Mediterranean region.
 

Monireh Rodsarabi, Mohammad Baaghideh, Dr Alireza Entezari, Fatemeh Mayvaneh,
Volume 25, Issue 78 (9-2025)
Abstract

To assess thermal comfort conditions in classrooms, a field study was conducted in Sabzevar. The thermal sensations reported by students regarding classroom conditions were documented at various times throughout the day during the 2009–2010 academic year across multiple classes. temperature and humidity data within the classrooms were recorded simultaneous using a data logger. To analyze differences, both ANOVA and the Kruskal-Wallis test were employed. The findings indicated that the geographical orientation and floor level of the classrooms did not significantly influence temperature and humidity levels. In contrast, significant hourly variations in these parameters were observed. Overall, reports of cooling sensations were more prevalent than those of heating sensations (24% vs. 12%). Thermal sensation exhibited considerable variation across different months, with October recording the lowest frequency of thermal comfort sensations. In all months except October, students expressed a preference for "heating." Although the performance of the heating system was deemed adequate, its operational schedule should be modified to commence closer to the beginning of morning classes in order to mitigate substantial energy waste. While temperature and humidity within the classrooms did not present significant monthly variations, students' thermal sensations varied markedly between months. This suggests that thermal sensation is influenced by factors beyond mere physical characteristics (temperature and humidity). In addition to climatic parameters, individual characteristics such as sex, age, weight, height, clothing, and activity level also play a significant role in shaping perceptions of thermal comfort. 

Mohsen Azizi, Hossein Mohammadi, Dariush Taleghani,
Volume 25, Issue 78 (9-2025)
Abstract

The aim of this research is to identify potential areas for autumn sugar beet cultivation in Golestan Province, Iran, based on temperature and precipitation parameters. Temperature (daily) and precipitation (annual) data from a 15-year statistical period (2006–2020) were analyzed using methods such as thermal potential diagrams, deviation from optimal conditions, phenology, and zoning of irrigation requirements based on annual rainfall. The results of the temperature evaluation using the thermal potential method, based on thermal thresholds of 0°C, 4°C, and 10°C, revealed that Inche Brun station has the highest cumulative thermal units, while Aliabad Katul station has the lowest. Analysis of the probability of late spring frost at the 95% confidence level showed that frost events occurring at the end of April in the central, eastern, northern, northeastern, and western parts of Golestan Province coincide with the phenological stages of root bulking and sugar accumulation in sugar beet.  Based on the deviation from optimal conditions, Inche Brun station exhibited the lowest deviation (-20.64), indicating more favorable conditions for sugar beet cultivation. Phenological analysis identified Gonbadkavus, Bandar Turkman, Kalaleh, Inche Brun, and Bandar Gaz as the most suitable areas for autumn sugar beet cultivation in Golestan Province. Rainfall evaluations using the annual rainfall zoning map of Golestan Province indicated that, while there are no significant limitations in terms of rainfall and water supply for autumn sugar beet cultivation, the recent multi-year droughts necessitate additional irrigation to ensure optimal growth. In conclusion, this study highlights the potential for autumn sugar beet cultivation in specific areas of Golestan Province, taking into account thermal conditions, frost risks, and rainfall patterns. However, supplementary irrigation is recommended to address water shortages caused by prolonged droughts.

Phd Mohammad Mohammadi, Hossein Asakereh, Abdollah Faraji,
Volume 25, Issue 78 (9-2025)
Abstract

Today, energy consumption plays a decisive role in the qualitative and quantitative development of human life. One of the energy sources that aligns with development, economic prosperity, and the acquisition of climatic comfort is natural gas. This energy source, especially in cold regions of the country, is essential for providing thermal comfort and requires proper management. Effective management of this fossil energy source depends on awareness and accurate forecasting of its demand. For this reason, the demand for natural gas in Zanjan city, one of the cold cities in Iran, was studied and modeled. Two groups of data—weather elements and natural gas consumption—over a period of 9 years (2013–2021) on a daily scale were used for this study. CurveExpert software and regression methods were employed to model the demand for natural gas in the city. Based on the most accurate pattern, temperature was selected as the only independent variable in the chosen model. Polynomial regression, with a correlation coefficient of 0.94 (coefficient of determination of 89.03%), was selected as the final model. The analysis revealed that the percentage increase in natural gas consumption per one-degree decrease in temperature varies across different temperature ranges. From 22°C to 16°C, the highest percentage increase in consumption was observed, while from 0°C to -5°C, the lowest percentage increase per one-degree decrease in temperature was recorded. The turning point and the beginning of issues related to natural gas shortages in Zanjan city were identified to occur at temperatures below -7°C.

Mohammad Hasan Yazdani, Samira Saeidi Zaranji, Kamran Dolatyariyan,
Volume 25, Issue 78 (9-2025)
Abstract

Urban development strategy represents a contemporary approach in urban planning and management, offering a framework for achieving sustainable urban development through poverty reduction, citizen participation, and increased investment. Like many cities in Iran, Ardabil faces numerous challenges, including inadequate governance, deteriorating infrastructure, substandard housing, weak public utilities, and insufficient social and health services. These issues underscore the necessity of strategic planning to address urban development effectively. This study aims to evaluate the indicators of urban development strategy in Ardabil. Employing a descriptive-analytical methodology, the research is grounded in field investigations. A sample size of 230 participants was determined using Sample Power software. Data analysis was conducted using one-sample T-tests and structural equation modeling (SEM) in AMOS Graphics software. The results of the one-sample T-test revealed that the status of urban development strategy indicators—livability, good governance, bankability, and competitiveness—in Ardabil is suboptimal, with mean scores of 2.21, 2.6, 2.62, and 2.15, respectively. Second-order factor analysis indicated that among the dimensions of urban development strategy, competitiveness, with a factor weight of 0.93, exerts the most significant influence, while bankability, with a factor weight of 0.62, has the least impact. Furthermore, the findings demonstrated that an improvement in the good urban governance index leads to a 0.55 increase in bankability, a 0.76 increase in livability, and a 0.86 increase in competitiveness. These results highlight the interconnectedness of governance quality with other dimensions of urban development, emphasizing the need for integrated strategies to enhance Ardabil's urban sustainability. 

Dr Mahdi Charaghi, Dr Hossein Tahmasebi Moghaddam, Master's Student Mohammad Reza, Nemati, Phd Saeed Nasiri Zare,
Volume 25, Issue 78 (9-2025)
Abstract

The advancement of tourism in any region necessitates a thorough understanding of the area's potential, alongside the provision of requisite facilities and services for tourists. Effective planning at all levels is essential to realize successful tourism development. This research investigates the challenges associated with service provision and ranks tourist destinations based on their tourism potential in Zanjan Province, Iran. The study employs a mixed-methods approach, integrating qualitative and quantitative techniques, with data gathered through interviews and questionnaires. Interview data were analyzed utilizing MaxQDA software, while the Analytical Hierarchy Process (AHP) was applied to evaluate criteria, and geographic modeling was employed to assess the spatial distribution of tourist destinations. The findings indicate that Zanjan Province, despite its considerable tourism potential, contends with multiple challenges, including inadequate facilities, inconsistent policies aimed at enhancing tourism services, and insufficient management and planning for tourism development. These challenges have impeded the province's progress in the tourism sector. Two primary concerns identified are the overall low level of services and the lack of coherence in planning and perspectives regarding tourism development. Nonetheless, the geographical distribution analysis identifies several high-potential tourist destinations, including Soltanieh Dome, Gen Chimneys, Angoran Mine, Oljaito Ecotourism Resort, Soltanieh Ecotourism Resort, Boutique Hotel, Zulfaqari Mansion, El Daghi, Seyed Mohammad Bridge, Zanjan Jame Mosque, Khedevi House, and the Colorful Mountains. These destinations, classified within the first cluster, are distinguished by their high tourism potential and accessibility, attributed to their unique features and proximity to populated areas. Consequently, they warrant prioritization in service planning and development initiatives. In conclusion, while Zanjan Province possesses substantial tourism potential, it is imperative to address systemic issues such as inadequate facilities, inconsistent policies, and poor management to foster sustainable tourism growth. Prioritizing high-potential destinations can establish a foundation for targeted development, enabling the province to enhance its tourism services, attract a greater number of visitors, and achieve long-term success within the tourism sector.


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