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Showing 727 results for Type of Study: Research

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.

Mis Zakeyeh Aftabi, Phd Morad Kaveyani Rad, ,
Volume 25, Issue 77 (6-2025)
Abstract

Water is a strategic and scarce resource that has become increasingly limited in recent years due to a variety of national and transnational factors, significantly impacting security, stability, development, and prosperity in various countries. The profound influence of water on these domains has positioned it at the forefront of the foreign policy and hydropolitical relations of numerous nations, including those in South West Asia. In recent years, despite the prominence of the water crisis and its implications for the relations between Iran and Iraq within scholarly, political, and media discussions, the complexities of this issue remain poorly understood, leading to disparate interpretations. 
The current research, which is exploratory in nature, utilized library methods for data collection with the aim of achieving a qualitative understanding of the multifaceted hydropolitical relations between Iran and Iraq. This study not only seeks to identify the content and methodological characteristics of existing literature but also aims to uncover research gaps in this field employing a qualitative meta-analysis approach. Through this method, the research examined 34 studies published between 2014 and 2023, including domestic scientific articles, theses, and contributions to reputable international journals. The findings indicate that a comprehensive analysis of the various dimensions of hydropolitical relations between Iran and Iraq has yet to be undertaken. In this context, the absence of accurate and reliable data, alongside the inadequacy of theoretical and cognitive frameworks, represents significant deficiencies in the existing research on the bilateral relations of these two countries.
 

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.

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).
 

Dr. Hassan Kamran, Dr. Habibollah Fasihi,
Volume 25, Issue 77 (6-2025)
Abstract

The historical fabric of cities, which leave the cultural heritage of the urban community like a shining gem, has valuable capabilities for the prosperity of the city's economy and for linking the past, present and future. Preservation of this valuable heritage, along with efficient use of its capacities, is considered a serious duty of society members and an important responsibility for policy makers and managers. This article seeks to explore natural and human-induced hazards face to Baharestan as an example of Tehran's historical fabric neighborhoods and to study the physical and structural situation of the neighborhood to identify threats that put it at risk. The data was obtained from a few GIS files and a survey. Historical documents are also analyzed. According to the judgment of 30 sample experts, each value of the 19 using threat indicators is given a score from 1 to 5 so that, a higher number means a greater threat. The mean value of these scores indicates the role of each parameter in the vulnerability of this neighborhood. Research findings reveal a high potential for natural and human-induced events including earthquakes, flooding, strong winds, air pollution, and political protests. Physical, structural, and socio-economic situations in the neighborhood such as insecurity, drug abuse in public spaces, overcrowding, and daytime congestion have also led to rapid relocation of neighborhood residents, who subsequently were replaced by commercial activities and warehouses that attribute to risks as well. In order to protect this neighborhood as a cultural heritage, it is necessary to develop a detailed rejeneration plan that considers the entire historical fabric of Tehran.
 
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.
 

Haniyeh Asadzadeh, Tajaldin Karami, Farzaneh Sasanpour, Ali Shamaie,
Volume 25, Issue 78 (9-2025)
Abstract

In present society, structural transformations within the economy, rapid advancements in science and technology, constraints on financial and human resources, the interdependence of nations, global competition, and the increasing trend toward globalization necessitate a more profound understanding of "change" and the "future" for governments, businesses, organizations, and individuals. Futures studies play a critical role in assisting policymakers and planners in the development of effective programs by enhancing communication, coordination, and collaboration among organizations and institutions. This research is applied in its objectives, descriptive-analytical in its nature and methodology, and exploratory in its approach to scenario writing. Data were collected through both documentary and field methods. In the field method, a researcher-constructed questionnaire in the form of a cross-impact matrix was administered to experts for scoring the factors. Utilizing the Delphi method, 30 experts were selected, and questionnaires were distributed non-randomly through convenience sampling. The data were analyzed using MICMAC and MORPHOL software. The findings indicate that the urban-regional system of Tehran is in an unstable state. Ten key drivers were identified as influential in the development of the Tehran metropolitan area: dominant ideology, integrated management, expansion of information and communication technology infrastructure, e-commerce, enhancement of economic competitiveness, economic branding, electronic management systems, political transparency, facilitation of multinational companies' entry, and the expansion of urban diplomacy. Ultimately, the scenarios for the future development of the Tehran metropolitan area revealed eight potential outcomes. The first scenario, characterized by nine pessimistic assumptions and one intermediate assumption, was identified as having the highest probability of occurrence.

Toba Alizadeheh, Majid Rezaie Banafsh, Gholamreza Goodarzi, Hashem Rostamzadeh,
Volume 25, Issue 78 (9-2025)
Abstract

Dust is a phenomenon with significant environmental impacts across various aspects of human life, including agriculture, economy, health, and more. The purpose of this study is to investigate and predict the dust phenomenon in Kermanshah. Meteorological data with a 3-hour resolution for the statistical period (2000–2020) from the Kermanshah station was obtained from the Meteorological Organization. First, the dust data were normalized, and then Artificial Neural Network (ANN) models were used to predict dust concentration, while the Adaptive Neuro-Fuzzy Inference System (ANFIS) was employed to analyze and predict the time series of dust occurrence in MATLAB software. The findings revealed that the maximum predicted dust concentration, related to the minimum dew point with the highest Pearson correlation with dust, was estimated at 3451.23 µg/m³. Additionally, the results of the time series prediction using the ANFIS model showed that the linear bell membership function with grade 3, during both the training and testing stages, was the most effective input function among other membership functions. According to the forecasting models, the highest probability of maximum dust occurrence in the next 20 years in Kermanshah is 94%. Based on the aforementioned studies, sufficient information was gathered to conduct this research. The phenomenon of dust, particularly in western Iran and the city of Kermanshah, has consistently posed significant challenges for the residents of these areas. This phenomenon is influenced by specific atmospheric conditions that cause irreparable damage annually, leading to respiratory issues and deteriorating air quality. Therefore, it is essential to pay serious attention to the issue of dust.
 

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.

Mr Habib Fasihi, Mis Mina Heydari,
Volume 25, Issue 78 (9-2025)
Abstract

Beauty is among the most sublime human needs. Since the time humans began building cities, they have paid attention to the sense of aesthetics. The purpose of this research is to conduct a comparative evaluation of two neighborhoods, Golestan and Moradab, as the two most well-off and least well-off neighborhoods in Karaj city, in terms of the aesthetic indicators of urban space. The research method is descriptive-analytical and data collection on 14 selected components related to the aesthetics of the urban environment was carried out by direct observation and using an evaluation checklist. Descriptive statistics parameters were used to analyze and compare the aesthetic level of the two neighborhoods, and zoning maps were drawn in the geographic information system and calculations and analysis were performed on the relevant descriptive tables to analyze spatial inequalities. Considering the evaluation of the indicators in the range of 1-10 points and assigning a higher point to a higher level of aesthetics, the findings showed that the average figure of the total indicators in Golestan neighborhood is 6.31 and in Moradab neighborhood is 2.57. Also, in Golestan neighborhood, the median figure is 6.43 and the first quartile figure is 4, while in Moradab neighborhood these figures are 1.78 and 1, respectively. Spatial analysis of the zoning map showed that in Golestan neighborhood, in terms of total indicators, there are no areas that are at the "very low" and "low" levels in terms of aesthetics, while in Mardab neighborhood, there are no areas at the "high" and "medium-high" levels. It can be concluded that Golestan neighborhood is at a high level in terms of aesthetic indicators and there is a lot of spatial inequality within and between the two studied neighborhoods.
 

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. 

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.

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.

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.

Dr Majid Rasouli,
Volume 25, Issue 78 (9-2025)
Abstract

Iraq is regarded as a pivotal element in Iran's foreign policy. For Iranian policymakers, Iraq represents a more critical and, consequently, a more sensitive operational ground than other nations where Iran extends support to local militia groups. Historical evidence indicates that developments in Iraq can have significant repercussions for Iran's stability. Iraq continues to pose a threat to Iran's national security, which underpins Iran's efforts to influence Iraq's internal policies and strategic orientation. Since 2003, Iran has adeptly infiltrated the Iraqi Shia population by capitalizing on the long-standing common borders and cultural, religious, and economic ties with Iraq. Iran's influence is multifaceted, encompassing access to a diverse array of political and social actors. Hence, this research aims to examine the various geocultural factors in Iran-Iraq relations. To accomplish this objective, a descriptive-analytical method and Wizard software were employed. The findings of the research reveal that the divergent factors in geocultural relations between Iran and Iraq are situated in critical and semi-critical conditions. The robust scenario board comprises eight distinct possible situations. Among these eight scenarios, three are classified as critical, one as semi-critical, one as static, two as semi-optimal, and one as optimal. It is also noteworthy that the majority of Iranian and Iraqi citizens share a common religion, namely Shia Islam. The religious seminaries, or hawzas, located in the religious cities of Qom in Iran and Najaf in Iraq serve as centers of Shiite education; however, they have developed within two distinct and competing traditions. This factor presents an opportunity for potential improvement in the situation.

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.


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