Showing 245 results for Co
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.
, , Jamaleddin Honarvar,
Volume 25, Issue 77 (6-2025)
Abstract
The coronavirus pandemic has brought many challenges to countries around the world, and the tourism industry has not been left out. To address these challenges in the tourism industry, recovery and adaptation measures are a topic that requires more attention. The aim of the present study is to examine the measures to revive and recover urban and rural tourism in the post-corona era. The present study is applied in terms of its purpose and its method is mixed (qualitative and quantitative). The data and information collection tool is exploratory and in-depth interviews. The statistical population of the study is experts and specialists in the field of tourism, who conducted 50 in-depth interviews using non-probability sampling and purposefully. The qualitative method of grand theory, Strauss and Corbin method, was used to analyze the information. According to the experts, 32 concepts were identified for the revival and recovery of urban and rural tourism in the post-corona era; of these 32 indicators, 6 indicators were related to rural tourism, 6 measures to urban tourism, and 20 indicators to tourism of both urban and rural destinations. The effect of 2 indicators was also described as insignificant. The results showed that; compensation for tourism losses, prevention and control of the coronavirus pandemic, smart tourism, tax exemption and subsidy, revival of the tourism market, construction of quality tourism places, safety of accommodation and hospitality, improvement of health facilities, ensuring the safety of international tourism, restoring the trust of travelers, providing clear information to travelers, strengthening cooperation within and between countries, are the most important measures for the revival and recovery of urban and rural tourism. The results of this research can also be used to revive and recover urban and rural tourism in the post-corona era in other parts of the country.
Mr Fazllollah Karimi Ghotbabadi, Dr Ali Zangiabadi,
Volume 25, Issue 77 (6-2025)
Abstract
Earthquake resilience, defined as the capacity of societies—including social, economic, institutional, geographical, and other dimensions—to withstand and recover from seismic events, is a critical issue that demands attention across various societal contexts. It is essential to acknowledge that attitudes toward resilience and the analytical frameworks employed to assess it significantly influence both the understanding of underlying causes of resilience and the formulation of policies aimed at risk reduction and management. The objective of this study is to evaluate and rank the earthquake resilience of new urban developments within the Isfahan Metropolitan area through the utilization of a combined index. Given the nature of the subject matter, the research adopts a descriptive-analytical approach. The study's statistical population comprises six new urban developments: Shahin Shahr, Majlesi, Sepahan Shahr, Foolad Shahr, Baharestan, and Shahid Keshvari. This research is characterized as applied in nature, and information for the literature review was gathered through library research methods. According to the results derived from the Potentially Optimal Solutions Evaluation Technique (POSET) analysis, the rankings of the urban developments based on the combined index of resilience to earthquake risk are as follows: Majlesi (3), Baharestan (6), Foolad Shahr (7), Sepahan Shahr (8), Shahin Shahr (11), and Shahid Keshvari (14). Consequently, to mitigate the adverse effects of earthquakes on communities, it is imperative to consider the unique capacities of each urban development, thereby reducing potential human and financial losses resulting from such events.
Laaya Jalilian, , Mohsen Ahadnejad, Hiwa865@gmail.com,
Volume 25, Issue 77 (6-2025)
Abstract
Policy-making in tourism development planning necessitates the adoption of innovative methodologies within the domain of urban governance. In alignment with this framework, it is imperative to implement policies that focus on the processes of "developing a good governance model for tourism in the post-COVID-19 era in Iran." This approach aims to mitigate the challenges posed by the pandemic, which has imposed significant strain on the tourism industry by reducing the evaluation of tourism governance indicators and establishing a foundation for their implementation. The methodology of this research is descriptive-survey with a practical focus, employing both documentary studies and field research. The qualitative component of the study utilized interviews as a tool for data analysis and the examination of relevant tourism indicators. The statistical population comprises experts and stakeholders involved in the tourism sector in Iran, with a sample size of 14 individuals selected through a combination of purposive and snowball sampling techniques. In-depth semi-structured interviews were conducted, and the data were analyzed through a process of open, axial, and selective coding until theoretical saturation was achieved, leading to the categorization of main and sub-categories. The data analysis was informed by the grounded theory methodology. The findings of this research, which identify indicators of effective governance and elucidate the causal conditions for the application of such governance in Iran's tourism industry, provide a foundation for potential outcomes, including the enhancement of the business environment, particularly in the aftermath of the economic downturn experienced due to the COVID-19 pandemic. These outcomes may lead to the creation of competitive advantages through the establishment of conducive platforms, including organizational measures, infrastructure development, technological enhancements, and the implementation of information and communication management strategies, marketing strategies, and oversight mechanisms, all of which are articulated as a comprehensive model.
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.
Hassan Heidari, Ebrahim Mesgari,
Volume 25, Issue 77 (6-2025)
Abstract
Understanding the daily weather types of any specific location is crucial for identifying its long-term climate patterns. In this study, we utilized the Wos classification method in conjunction with a comprehensive climatological approach to analyze key variables, including minimum, average, and maximum temperatures, as well as cloud cover and daily precipitation. Data from 1985 to 2021 were collected from 39 synoptic stations, which exhibited a well-distributed representation across the country and provided complete datasets. Weather types were identified using established coding techniques. The findings indicated that the predominant temperature types in the country are primarily categorized as hot and very hot, with sub-codes reflecting generally low to moderate cloud cover and negligible precipitation. Furthermore, the application of Ward's clustering method facilitated the identification of three distinct climatic groups. The geographical characteristics of each location, including factors such as altitude, latitude, proximity to the sea, and synoptic influences, play a significant role in the regional differentiation of these groups within the country. The outcomes of this research can be instrumental in developing weather calendars for various regions, with implications for numerous sectors including agriculture and tourism.
Masoud Malekian Dolat Abadi, Gholamhosein Heidari, Farhad Hamzeh,
Volume 25, Issue 77 (6-2025)
Abstract
The contemporary global landscape is characterized by heightened geopolitical competition, in which energy resources have evolved from being mere support for nations to becoming pivotal elements in the contest for power. This context has transformed corridors into significant arenas for competition, as each country endeavors to establish its position within the intricate network created by these emerging corridors. In this regard, the prevailing global geopolitical trend has intensified the competition over maritime chokepoints and secured access to cross-border markets.This research serves as a theoretical foundation, employing a descriptive-analytical methodology that incorporates a comparative approach, utilizing library and internet resources for data collection. Within the chronopolitical framework of Iran-Iraq relations, each actor strives to delineate its role in international corridors while pursuing various objectives. For instance, Iraq is actively engaged in the "FAW Corridor" initiative, whereas Iran seeks to expand economic cooperation and secure a place in the burgeoning alliances of the East. While it is challenging to make definitive predictions regarding the future of relations between the two countries from a chronopolitical perspective, emerging signs suggest a trend toward diminished cooperation and increased competition, influenced by a multitude of variables. A key indicator of this potential competition is the rivalry over transit routes (corridors).
Faranak Behdost, Professor Keramatollah Ziari, Dr Hossein Hataminejad, Dr Hassan Ali Faraji Sabokbar,
Volume 25, Issue 78 (9-2025)
Abstract
Today, due to the conditions of globalization, city branding has become increasingly important due to its tourism potentials. Most regions with strategic planning in this area aim to achieve economic development and reduce deprivation through tourism. In this study, the research strategy is deductive, and its purpose is practical. The required data and information were collected from library resources and surveys (questionnaires and interviews) with experts. The meta-SWOT technique, based on an inside-out approach and a resource-based perspective, provides a framework for enhancing the competitiveness of cities and regions. The city of Kermanshah possesses significant capabilities to attract tourism, enabling it to achieve urban, regional, and global competitiveness. The findings of this study show that among the capabilities and potentials of Kermanshah, the existence of historical and cultural monuments—such as Taq-e Bostan, pillars, historic houses, museums, and its role as a center for handicrafts—as well as cultural similarities with people living in Iraq and Turkey, along with its unique culture, beliefs, and customs, serve as key tourism potentials. These attributes align with the four characteristics of the VIRO framework (Value, Rarity, Imitability, and Organization), making them the most strategic fit with macro variables affecting tourist attraction and urban competitiveness through tourism in Kermanshah. Among the major influential variables, the COVID-19 pandemic, international sanctions against Iran, climate change, natural disasters, and lack of funding have the greatest impact on the urban competitiveness of Kermanshah. Based on the analysis of resources and macro variables, a strategic fit map was developed, and appropriate solutions were proposed.
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.
Mostafa Karampour, Yeganeh Khamoshian Sahneh, Zohreh Ebrahimi, Hamed Heidari,
Volume 25, Issue 78 (9-2025)
Abstract
Atmospheric rivers are one of the atmospheric phenomena that generate heavy rainfall and can lead to significant human and financial losses. Understanding the synoptic mechanisms of water vapor flux and atmospheric river formation in the country's atmosphere, as well as revealing the interaction between the NAO (North Atlantic Oscillation) zonal component and the creation and intensification of this atmospheric phenomenon, can greatly improve the predictability of torrential rainfall events. The main goal of this research is to investigate the atmospheric river phenomenon in the Iranian atmosphere and its relationship with the phases of the NAO phenomenon. In this regard, data on the zonal and meridional components of wind, specific humidity, and NAO anomalies were obtained from the NOAA database during the statistical period of 1944–2019. The results showed that during the study period, atmospheric rivers have shifted in terms of longitude and latitude, moving toward the southern half of Iran. A high correlation was observed between the NAO index and meridional flows at levels above 600 hectopascals. Additionally, a sigma value of 0.2101 indicated a strong correlation with the NAO in the area where atmospheric rivers enter the Iranian atmosphere. High-pressure centers play an important role in directing atmospheric rivers. These rivers cannot pass through high-pressure centers and typically exhibit meridional curvature at the outer borders of these centers in the Northern Hemisphere, resulting in southwest and northeast orientations. The primary moisture source for atmospheric rivers entering Iran is the Atlantic Ocean, which is further enhanced by water bodies such as the Red Sea, the Sea of Oman, the Indian Ocean, and the Persian Gulf.
Mehdi Asghari, Zeinab Karkehbadi, Abbas Arghan,
Volume 25, Issue 78 (9-2025)
Abstract
In recent decades, good urban governance has been proposed as the most effective, least expensive, and most sustainable method for managing the complex and multi-level systems of modern cities. The centrality of this approach in urban management is based on democratic and egalitarian development, aiming to involve all interested and influential stakeholders in the administration of cities while addressing their diverse needs. On the other hand, women, as one of the main and most influential social groups in urban life, play a prominent role in city administration. Therefore, the purpose of this article is to examine the role of good urban governance during and after the COVID-19 pandemic, with a focus on the women’s status in Semnan. From the perspective of its objective, this research is practical, and in terms of data collection, it is descriptive-survey. A questionnaire was used to collect data and information for this study. The statistical population of the research consists of the citizens of Semnan, with a population of 185,129 people. The sample size was calculated using Cochran's formula, resulting in 383 participants. To analyze the data, single-sample t-tests and multivariate linear regression were employed. Finally, to generalize the results from the sample to the statistical population, structural equation modeling was conducted using Lisrel software. The results of the one-sample t-test showed that the t-values for each of the research variables, with averages lower than the theoretical mean, were negative. This indicates that the dimensions of good urban governance in Semnan, as well as the situation of women in the city, are not in a favorable state. Additionally, the results of structural equation modeling in Lisrel software revealed that the justice variable has the strongest and most significant relationship with good urban governance. Finally, the survey results demonstrate that it is impossible to achieve good urban governance without defining and explaining the practical role of women, who represent half of the city's population and are one of the most important and influential groups in city administration.
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.
Nahid Keshavarz, Hamidreza Joodki, Ali Nourikermani,
Volume 25, Issue 78 (9-2025)
Abstract
The historical district of cities is a valuable architectural and urban heritage, reflecting the cultural, economic, and social dimensions of the people who, throughout history, have lived in this part of the city and shaped its cultural identity. These areas have witnessed a decline in urban development, and the limited efforts made toward their improvement or reconstruction have been inadequate. The aim of this analytical research is to explore urban regeneration in the historical (old) fabric of Dezful city. The research method employed in this study is a survey-based approach. The statistical population of the present study includes all residents of the historical fabric of Dezful, which, according to the latest census by the Statistical Center of Iran, has a population of approximately 29,277 people. To achieve a logical sample size, Cochran's formula was used, resulting in the selection of 384 samples through stratified random sampling. The primary data collection tool in this research is a questionnaire; however, due to the specialized nature of the questionnaire, interview and observation methods were also utilized to complement the questionnaire data. The results derived from the SWOT and QSPM models indicate that, out of the five final strategies for the regeneration of the historical fabric of Dezful, the top two strategies belong to offensive strategies. Accordingly, studying and designing the possibility of creating pedestrian pathways in the historical fabric—considering the growing public interest in cultural and historical tourism—and utilizing the space along the Dez River for green space development and designing a green corridor along the river and historical fabric can be considered the most important offensive strategies.
Sharifeh Zarei, Dr. Bohloul Alijani, Dr. Zahra Hejazizadeh, Dr. Bakhtiar Mohammadi,
Volume 25, Issue 78 (9-2025)
Abstract
This study investigates the most significant synoptic patterns associated with widespread snowfall in the eastern half of Iran. To achieve this, weather code data and snow depth records from synoptic stations in the eastern half of the country were obtained from the Iranian Meteorological Organization for the statistical period of 1371-1400 (1992-2021), focusing on the months of October to March. Days with simultaneous snowfall covering more than 70% of the study area were identified as widespread snowfall events. For the synoptic-dynamic analysis of these events, a classification method utilizing cluster analysis was employed. Maps of representative days were generated, including variables such as atmospheric temperature, moisture flux, geopotential height, vorticity, front formation, jet stream location, omega index, and meridional and zonal wind data. Additionally, trend analysis was conducted using the Mann-Kendall test. The results revealed that three primary synoptic patterns are responsible for widespread snowfall in the study area. These patterns include: (1) high-pressure systems over Siberia and central Europe coupled with low-pressure systems over eastern Iran; (2) high-pressure systems over western Iran paired with low-pressure systems over Sudan; and (3) high-pressure systems over central Europe combined with low-pressure systems over eastern Iran and Afghanistan. In all patterns, the intensification of meridional flows in the westerly winds, along with the formation of high- and low-pressure centers, creates blocking conditions that disrupt the westerly flow and promote upward air motion. The concentration of negative omega fields and positive relative vorticity advection, coupled with the positioning of northeastern Iran in the left exit region of the Subtropical Jet Stream, contributes to significant atmospheric instability and widespread snowfall in the region. Furthermore, the trend analysis indicated that, although there is no statistically significant trend in the number of snowfall days in northeastern Iran, the overall number of snowfall days has decreased over time.
Mrs Reyhane Salehabadi, Dr Mohammadreza Hafez Nia,
Volume 25, Issue 78 (9-2025)
Abstract
Following the victory of the Islamic Revolution, a new perspective on science and technology emerged in Iran. This scientific discourse was profoundly shaped by the principles of the Islamic Revolution and Islamic ideology, leading to the establishment of new values and objectives for the advancement of science and technology. In the post-revolutionary era, as policymakers recognized science and technology as pivotal drivers of societal progress and excellence, they devised scientific policies and strategies aimed at achieving revolutionary and Islamic ideals. This evolving attitude toward science and technology significantly influenced Iran’s scientific and technological development during this period. Given that the Islamic Republic of Iran has assumed a leading role in scientific leadership within the region since 1979, its contributions to the development of scientific capabilities under successive post-revolution governments are noteworthy. To explore this, a descriptive-analytical approach was employed, utilizing reliable data from both domestic and international sources. The research findings indicate that the prevailing discourse in different governmental periods included a focus on industrialization through import substitution and capital resource allocation (1981–1989), modernization and institutional development with an emphasis on advanced technologies (1989–1997), the promotion of advanced technologies, innovation, export expansion, and social justice centered on knowledge-based industries (1997–2005), the transition toward knowledge-based innovation in the economy (2005–2013), and the enhancement of international cooperation with an emphasis on identity and rationality in policy formulation and implementation (2013–2021). The results demonstrate that, in each phase, measures such as the expansion of higher education and scientific research, the establishment of universities and research centers, and the creation of domestic and international scientific networks were implemented in alignment with the dominant discourse.
Faeze Shoja, Salimeh Sadeghi, Shamsipour, Eduardo Gomes,
Volume 25, Issue 78 (9-2025)
Abstract
The aim of this research is to evaluate the heat mitigation index (HMI) in the Tehran metropolitan area using the Urban Cooling Model (UCM) approach in a spatial framework. UCM produces maps of the Heat Mitigation Index. This index estimates the cooling potential of urban green spaces in a given location, taking into account various parameters such as evapotranspiration, tree shading, albedo, rural reference air temperature, urban heat island intensity, air temperature maximum blending, and maximum cooling distance. The assessment of environmental factors influencing the UCM in the study area revealed that the urban heat island effect was least intense in regions 1, 22, and the northern parts of region 4 of Tehran municipality, where there are scattered trees, shrubs, open low-rise buildings, and water bodies. The temperature differences between the city and the suburbs ranged from 0 to 1.3 degrees Celsius. However, the study area's central parts showed the highest intensity of the urban heat island, particularly in regions 21, 13, and 14. These regions have a dense and compact texture and an expansion of impervious surfaces, resulting in the lowest values of the evapotranspiration index (ranging from 0.12 to 0.45) and albedo (ranging from 0.09 to 0.16). Based on these parameters, the study area's HMI index showed that the cooling capacity varies from 0.08 in the central parts of the city to 0.9 in areas affected by green spaces and water bodies. The maximum cooling capacity index is concentrated in areas with dense and scattered tree cover in the region. On average, these areas have been able to neutralise 2.48 degrees Celsius of the urban heat island effect with a cooling capacity of 63%. The methodology employed in this research can be used as a reference for urban designers in integrating urban cooling approaches and heat island mitigation strategies in urban planning and design.
Dr Naser Shafieisabet, Masoudeh Nikoeifard, Dr Neginsadat Mirvahedi,
Volume 25, Issue 78 (9-2025)
Abstract
Villagers' self-organization, as a collaborative process, plays a fundamental role in promoting sustainable livelihoods in rural areas. This study was carried out to identify the driving forces affecting the self-organization of villagers and to improve sustainable rural livelihoods in Ashtian County, Iran. Utilizing a qualitative research design with an analytical-exploratory approach, data were gathered through semi-structured questionnaires and in-depth interviews with 30 subject matter experts. The collected qualitative data were analyzed using the Delphi method and MicMac software to identify underlying relationships and patterns among concepts. The findings indicate that the distribution of factors and variables influencing the improvement of sustainable rural livelihoods in the study area is characterized by instability. Additionally, among the 24 primary influential factors, 10 critical drivers emerged as pivotal to advancing villagers' self-organization and promoting long-term sustainability in rural livelihoods. These drivers include innovation and creativity of villagers in agricultural and non-agricultural activities, skills and experience in group activities, and the establishment of local organizations as individual factors; increasing the spirit of entrepreneurship, launching, and promoting new local businesses as psychological factors; increasing participation, cooperation, and a sense of responsibility in agricultural and non-agricultural activities as social factors; empowering villagers by increasing their awareness, social and economic skills, and leveraging new IT and ICT technologies for structural empowerment in the direction of self-organization as education and empowerment factors; access to diverse and reliable financial resources for agricultural and non-agricultural activities as economic factors; delegating authority to villagers in line with local planning and decentralization as planning and management factors; and finally, supporting the creation and development of local businesses, diversifying agricultural and non-agricultural activities, and increasing investment in innovative businesses as socio-economic support factors. These drivers collectively contribute to advancing villagers' self-organization and enhancing sustainable rural livelihoods.
Fereydoon . Babaei Aghdam, Rahim Rahim Heydari Chianeh, Qassem Rahimifard,
Volume 25, Issue 79 (12-2025)
Abstract
The objective of this study was to examine the impact of destination image and service quality on the competitiveness of tourism destinations, specifically focusing on Tabriz city. This research is classified as applied in terms of its purpose and analytical in terms of its descriptive methodology. The statistical population comprised incoming tourists to Tabriz, with a sample size estimated at 384, calculated using Cochran's formula for an infinite population. To gather field data, a researcher-developed questionnaire was employed, the validity of which was confirmed by subject matter experts. The reliability of the instrument was assessed using Cronbach's alpha and composite reliability, with the results affirming the questionnaire's reliability. Data analysis was conducted utilizing SPSS and LISREL software. The findings indicated that both destination image and service quality exert a positive and significant influence on the competitiveness of tourism destinations. Furthermore, the path coefficient analysis demonstrated that the impact of destination image on the competitiveness of tourism destinations was greater than that of service quality.
Ghazal Asadi Eskandar, Bahador Zamani, Shahab Kariminia, Maryam Ghasemi Sichani,
Volume 25, Issue 79 (12-2025)
Abstract
Increased temperatures in urban areas due to high energy consumption and greenhouse gas emissions are some of the problems of today's cities. Urban open spaces in hot and arid climates experience this problem more in summer. The purpose of this study is to show the relationship between morphological components of the urban fabric and thermal comfort through integrated analysis. In this study, urban fabric types were extracted by considering ground space index, floor space index, open space ratio, average height, streets orientation, streets organization, and type of plots according to their configuration of mass and space. To study thermal comfort, a field study was carried out in five neighborhoods in the historical context, for five continuous days in summer. Environmental variables including air temperature, humidity, radiant temperature, and wind speed were measured, and the physiological equivalent temperature index was calculated using ENVI-met software; thermal comfort in the neighborhoods with different morphological characteristics was analyzed. The results showed that more than half of the data during the day in the hot season in all five neighborhoods are in conditions of extreme heat stress. Comparison of neighborhoods with different morphological features indicated that two neighborhoods with higher open space ratios, despite the difference in the orientation of the streets and the type of plots, have lower thermal comfort compared to other types. A neighborhood with a higher ground space index and a lower open space ratio has a lower average physiological equivalent temperature.
Mr Ebrahim Bairanvand, Dr Amir Gandomkar, Dr Alireza Abbasi, Dr Morteza Khodaghoi,
Volume 25, Issue 79 (12-2025)
Abstract
The torrential rains that occurred in April 2017 in Lorestan Province exemplified severe precipitation that inflicted substantial damage on agricultural, urban, transportation, and communication infrastructures. This study aims to investigate and elucidate the relationship between the physical structure of clouds responsible for two waves of heavy rainfall in April 2017 within the Doroud catchment area of Boroujerd. In this context, the statistical characteristics of two precipitation events on March 25 and April 1, 2019, were analyzed. The microphysical properties of the clouds generating these two heavy rainfall events were examined utilizing the Madis superconductor product and MOD06. Four microphysical factors contributing to the formation of clouds during these two rainfall waves in the Doroud-Borujerd basin—including cloud top temperature (CTT), cloud top pressure (CTP), optical cloud thickness (OCT), and cloud cover ratio (CFR)—were analyzed. Statistical assessments indicated that the first wave of heavy rainfall, occurring on March 25, 2019 (5 April 1398), accounted for 15% of the total annual rainfall, while the second wave on April 1, 2019 (12 April 1398) contributed 20% of the region's average annual rainfall within these two days. The findings from the analysis of the microphysical structure of the clouds producing these two precipitation waves, based on data from the MODIS cloud sensor product, revealed a significant spatial correlation between the four microphysical factors and the recorded precipitation values of these two heavy rainfall events. Specifically, the cloud top temperature and pressure, indicative of vertical cloud expansion in the area, exhibited a significant inverse relationship with the precipitation amounts in the basin. Conversely, the cloud cover ratio and optical thickness demonstrated a direct and significant spatial correlation with the recorded rainfall values. The results of this study thus establish a significant and robust relationship between the microphysical structure of clouds and the precipitation amounts recorded in the region during these two heavy rainfall events.