International Journal of Human Capital in Urban Management

Abstract BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVES: Urban neighborhoods in developing countries have undergone substantial transformations due to rapid urbanization, which has resulted in a decline in their vitality. Although both physical and social environments play crucial roles in enhancing neighborhood vitality, few studies have simultaneously examined the impact of neighborhoods’ social and physical characteristics. This study aimed to analyze the effect of the physical environment on neighborhood vitality and to examine the mediating role of social relations in the impact of the physical environment on vitality.
METHODS: A quantitative, cross-sectional survey was conducted in the Sabzeh-Meydan and Sad-Dastgah neighborhoods of Babol city, Iran. A sample size of 400 residents and users of the spaces of the two neighborhoods participated in the survey, with the sample size determined using GPower software. Data analysis involved confirmatory factor analysis and full structural equation modeling, which were performed using AMOS 24 software.
FINDINGS: The structural model explained 41% of the variance in vitality (R2=0.41). Social relations (β=0.457, p=0.000) and the form and physical structure of public spaces (β=0.252, p=0.000) were found to be the most significant factors directly affecting vitality. Access to amenities indirectly impacted vitality through the total mediation of social relations. Furthermore, the Sabzeh-Meydan neighborhood (city center) had a significantly lower level of vitality than the Sad-Dastgah neighborhood (β=0.317, p=0.000) despite promoting higher social relations.
CONCLUSION: ‌The study confirmed that social factors are the most critical determinants of neighborhood vitality, with social relations acting as a key conduit between the physical environment and vitality. The findings highlighted the necessity of implementing strategies that focus on regenerating the historical physical fabric and preserving community culture to enhance vitality, especially in central, older neighborhoods. Strategies for improving the physical and social environments to enhance vitality were proposed based on the research results.

Abstract BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVES: Globally, public housing delivery faces persistent challenges in meeting the growing demand for affordable and accessible housing. Despite several national interventions, the gap between policy intent and housing outcomes remains significant. This study aimed to evaluate the effectiveness of government-funded housing delivery by examining levels of awareness, accessibility, affordability, and associated financial burdens among residents of public housing estates in Ogun State, Nigeria.
METHODS: An evaluative research design incorporated both primary and secondary data. The study population comprised residents of fully completed and occupied federal housing estates. A systematic sampling technique selected 134 housing units from a sampling frame of 1,337. Data were gathered through structured questionnaires and direct observations and were analysed using descriptive statistics and Pearson correlation at a 0.05 significance level.
FINDINGS: Among the respondents, 67% reported awareness of the housing delivery initiative, while 52% indicated that housing units were difficult to access. 47.5% perceived the housing units as expensive, and 22.5% rated them as very expensive. The financial burden was notably high, with power supply (AMS = 4.47), housing costs (AMS = 4.25), and water provision (AMS = 4.23) ranked as top cost concerns. Significant correlations were observed between housing costs and water provision (r = .994, p = .001), power supply (r = .992, p = .001), and transport to work (r = .970, p = .006). Furthermore, 38.5% of residents rated the housing environment as poor, while 46.8% described internal road infrastructure as poor.
CONCLUSION: The findings revealed substantial gaps in the design and implementation of public housing delivery programs, with issues of affordability, accessibility, and infrastructure maintenance contributing to financial stress among residents. Stronger political will, targeted subsidies, improved infrastructure, and inclusive publicity strategies are required to enhance housing outcomes and ensure that housing delivery is equitable, affordable, and sustainable.

Abstract BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVES: Batna city's road network has evolved due to various factors, particularly residents’ practices and movements, which have shaped the city’s routes and spatial hierarchies. However, the logic of urban production has been unexplored through the prism of user experience. This study aimed to analyze the spatial configuration of the city’s road network, to identify the mechanisms driving the city’s evolution, highlighting the users’ contribution, providing guidelines for future, thoughtful urban planning, and enhancing the quality of urban space by reconciling city users' perception with different approaches to planning.
METHODS: The study applied space syntax Analysis, using depthmap 10 software. It calculated the following parameters: Connectivity, integration, and entropy, and analyzed 25753 axes of Batna’s road network. These measures allowed understanding users’ perception of accessibility, movement, and route choices. This analysis was complemented by a sociological study and field observations. To assess the robustness of the relationship between these parameters, statistical tests were performed, including Pearson and Spearman correlations, as well as a linear regression test analyzed through the ANOVA table, to examine the relationships between two dualities: connectivity/ integration and connectivity/ entropy.
FINDINGS: Connectivity values in Batna city ranged from 0 to 7, with higher values (4-7) found in formal districts. The average integration value was 1.17, peaking at 2.63. Pearson and Spearman confirmed strong correlations between these attributes (p-value less than 0.001), while the ANOVA table from linear regression predicted 14% of the variance in Integration. These values revealed areas with high centrality and accessibility, aligning with the questionnaire responses on urban dynamics and frequency. The analysis also recorded high spatial choice and complexity, revealed by a maximum entropy value of 1.057, observed in more than 25753 spatial units analyzed in this study.
CONCLUSION: The study was distinguished by the inclusive approach, based on the exhaustive analysis of the road structure of Batna city. It highlighted that urban quality and perception, although immaterial and subjective concepts, can be objectified and analyzed rigorously. It advocated for urban planning that is more sensitive to spatial configuration. This study was unique in that it analyzed the entire road network of the city, thus providing a solid basis for testing, in future research, other parameters derived from the Space Syntax method.

Abstract BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVES: Effective river basin management requires understanding sediment transport dynamics and their impact on ecosystem services to mitigate soil erosion and sedimentation. This study emphasizes the novel integration of the ecosystem services framework into sediment transport modeling using the Integrated Valuation Ecosystem Services and Tradeoffs Sediment Delivery Ratio model. The Haraz River basin, a critical watershed in northern Iran, faces significant erosion and sedimentation problems due to steep slopes, sporadic vegetation, and intensive land use. This study aimed to model sediment transport and assess erosion and sedimentation dynamics within the basin using the Integrated Valuation of Ecosystem Services and Tradeoffs Sediment Delivery Rate model, focusing on ecosystem services, particularly sediment retention and delivery.
METHODS: The Integrated Valuation of Ecosystem Services and Tradeoffs Sediment Delivery Rate model was applied to the Haraz River Basin, using high-resolution land use maps, a Digital Elevation Model, and field-calibrated parameters. The study quantified soil erosion and sediment export at pixel and sub-watershed levels. The analysis considered key factors such as rainfall erosivity, soil erodibility, slope length, land cover, and management actions to estimate sediment dynamics and identify critical erosion hotspots.
FINDINGS: The results showed considerable spatial variability in sediment transport and retention across the catchment. Subwatershed 2 had the highest soil erosion potential (13,016,268 tonnes) and sediment export (1,992,277 tonnes), primarily due to steep slopes and limited vegetation cover. In contrast, sub-catchment 5 had the lowest erosion potential (60,721 tonnes) and sediment export (9,328 tonnes) due to effective land management and favorable land cover conditions. The values for erosion control and sediment retention illustrate the crucial role of vegetation in mitigating soil loss and reducing sediment input into rivers.
CONCLUSION: This study highlights the complex interplay between natural and management factors in regulating erosion and sediment dynamics. Integrating Sediment Delivery Ratio modeling with an ecosystem services framework provided actionable insights for prioritizing erosion control measures in high-risk areas and improving sediment retention. Management strategies that include vegetation restoration, land use optimization, and sediment control barriers are recommended to improve watershed sustainability in the Haraz Basin.

Abstract BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVES: Mashhad, Iran’s main pilgrimage city, attracts numerous religious visitors every year. This status led to significant socio-economic and physical transformations, particularly around the holy shrine. The rapid growth of lodging and commercial facilities disrupted the urban fabric, reducing the quality of life for long-term residents. In the southern Samen region, the culturally rich Eidgah neighborhood suffered from neglect, poor planning, and the influx of temporary accommodations, eroding its social and cultural identity. This study aimed to identify key factors affecting residential satisfaction to encourage long-term habitation in the neighborhood.
METHODS: This research was quantitative, critical realism in approach, and grounded in the interpretivism paradigm. It was applied in its purpose, as it focuses on future studies of the Eidgah neighborhood to identify factors contributing to resident displacement and related potential issues. The data for this study were collected using library documents, environmental surveys, observations, and expert group questionnaires. The questionnaires were distributed to experts with prior experience in this urban fabric or other similar historical and deteriorated neighborhoods. The analysis of the questionnaires was conducted using MICMAC software and Scenario Wizard software.
FINDINGS: Adequate security and safety of the environmentLength of residence 478. These three variables demonstrated the highest influence on sustaining habitation, underscoring their critical role in residential stability. Based on these findings, the research identified four strategic scenarios for preserving residency in the Eidgah neighborhood.
CONCLUSION: This study demonstrated that multiple factors affect residency preservation, which can vary significantly from one city to another or even from one neighborhood to another. The identified key variables primarily play a prominent role in social-cultural, functional, perceptual, and visual dimensions. Examining these key variables within similar historical contexts can pave the way for more targeted and effective interventions in urban planning, ultimately enhancing residents' quality of life and ensuring sustainability in these areas.
 

Abstract BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVES: In Algerian cities, access to and use of public spaces remain strongly conditioned by cultural norms, gender stereotypes, and spatial inequalities. Women are often perceived as less legitimate users of public space, resulting in unequal access, limited visibility, and a heightened sense of vulnerability. This research explores how collective representations, particularly gendered social expectations, cultural constraints, and socio-spatial dynamics, shape women’s behaviors and restrict their appropriation of public space. Grounded in gender-sensitive placemaking, the study seeks to identify key obstacles and planning-related challenges while proposing inclusive urban strategies.
METHODS: The study adopts an anthropological and reflexive methodology, combining a literature review with mixed methods. It integrates qualitative interviews, field observations, and a structured survey of 100 women in the Ben-Boulaid alleys of Batna, Algeria. The empirical strategy was designed to investigate how cultural expectations, spatial arrangements (lighting, accessibility, urban design), and socio-economic characteristics (age, occupation, mobility) intersect to shape gendered uses of public space. This methodological framework allows for testing the assumption that these factors play a decisive role in producing spatial inequalities and limiting women’s access and autonomy in urban environments.
FINDINGS: The results show strong associations between women’s use of public space and multiple interrelated factors. A significant correlation was found between the frequency of visits and age/occupation. Cultural barriers were identified as the most influential factor limiting access, followed by inadequate infrastructure and perceived insecurity. Negative correlations were observed for perceptions of equal access (r = –0.167, p = 0.098) and women’s access to the Ben-Boulaid alleys (r = –0.189, p = 0.060), indicating exclusion from certain spatial practices. Lighting was positively correlated with reduced fear of aggression (r = 0.165). Furthermore, 72% of respondents judged current gender equality measures as insufficient. These results confirm the hypothesis and emphasize the urgent need to integrate gender indicators into urban planning practices.
CONCLUSION: This research highlights the importance of rethinking urban policies through a gender lens, incorporating women’s lived experiences and spatial needs into the design process. It calls for participatory placemaking strategies that promote safety, inclusivity, and cultural sensitivity, aiming to foster public spaces that are accessible, welcoming, and equitable for all.

Abstract BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVES: Urbanization and rapid population growth are significant global challenges, especially in cities with outdated planning systems. Effective urban growth models, which utilize historical data, land use patterns, and population dynamics, are essential for predicting future expansion. In Kirkuk, Iraq, urban growth has occurred unregulated due to an outdated master plan, and a new plan has been introduced. However, no local studies have assessed the effectiveness of urban growth models against this plan. This study aims to fill this gap by evaluating urban development in Kirkuk from 1993 to 2023 and forecasting growth to 2037 using remote sensing and Geo-spatial Information System-based models.
METHODS: This research applied two urban growth models: Cellular Automata Markov chain modeling (CA-MARCOV) and SLEUTH, to analyze urban expansion in Kirkuk. Satellite imagery from 1993, 2003, 2013, and 2023 was used for land use classification. The Cellular Automata Markov chain model used transition probability matrices derived from land use data, while the SLEUTH model incorporated urban density, road networks, and slope data for simulations. Both models were tested for accuracy by comparing predicted urban growth for 2023 with actual land use data. The study also used these models to forecast urban expansion for 2037, comparing their predictions with the city’s new master plan.
FINDINGS: The land use classification indicated significant urban growth in Kirkuk, from 41.57 km² in 1993 to 155.5 km² in 2023. The accuracy of the predictions for 202F3 showed that the SLEUTH model achieved 87% accuracy, outperforming the Cellular Automata Markov chain model, which had 76% accuracy. For 2037, the Cellular Automata Markov chain model projected urban growth to 201.43 km², while the SLEUTH model predicted a larger expansion of 219.78 km². The SLEUTH model also excluded water bodies and restricted zones (such as oil fields and airports), which were manually identified, while the Cellular Automata Markov chain model did not account for these exclusions.
CONCLUSION: The SLEUTH model provided more accurate urban growth predictions and was selected for comparison with the new master plan. The results indicated discrepancies between the SLEUTH model’s predictions and the master plan, particularly in areas experiencing rapid growth, suggesting the need for adjustments. The southeastern and southwestern regions showed alignment with the plan. These findings highlight the importance of using accurate urban growth models for sustainable planning in Kirkuk, offering valuable insights for urban development through 2037

Abstract BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVES: This study explores the role of organizational structure, historical and cultural capacities, and creative urban spaces in enhancing the branding of creative cities. Focusing on Rasht, a historically and culturally rich city in Iran, the research aims to understand the mediating role of creative urban spaces and historical-cultural capacities in the relationship between organizational structure and urban branding. Despite extensive research on urban branding and its determinants, a theoretical gap exists in understanding how organizational structures influence creative city branding through the interplay of historical-cultural capacities and creative urban spaces as mediators. This study seeks to address this gap by providing a comprehensive framework that integrates structural, spatial, and cultural dimensions in urban branding, particularly in creative cities.
METHODS: Using a mixed-methods approach, the study combines a literature review with quantitative data collection. 500 online surveys were distributed among Rasht residents using random sampling. Data were analyzed using descriptive and inferential statistics, including structural equation modeling (SEM-PLS), to test hypotheses regarding the direct and indirect relationships between organizational structure, creative urban spaces, historical-cultural capacities, and city branding.
FINDINGS: The study reveals that the organizational structure significantly influences creative urban spaces (β = 0.654) and historical-cultural capacities (β = 0.713). These mediating factors play a pivotal role in enhancing creative city branding, with historical-cultural capacities demonstrating a stronger impact (β = 0.352) than creative urban spaces (β = 0.212). The model accounts for 54.5% of the variance in creative city branding, emphasizing the critical interplay between organizational structure, cultural capacities, and urban spaces in shaping and strengthening the city's brand identity.
CONCLUSION: This research contributes to the literature on urban branding by integrating organizational structure, cultural capacities, and creative urban spaces as interconnected factors. The findings underscore the importance of cohesive organizational policies, preservation of cultural heritage, and development of vibrant urban spaces in achieving sustainable and effective city branding. Study limitations and suggestions for future research are also discussed.

Abstract BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVES: The growth and development of informal settlements are among the main challenges facing urban development, particularly in metropolitan areas. The Noh-Darreh area, located along the southern highlands of Mashhad, is a prominent example of informal settlements in the southwestern part of the city. It has attracted the attention of both the public and urban development institutions. Neglecting the needs and potential of the Noh-Darreh area in the planning and implementation of development projects could degrade its urban fabric, turning it into a deteriorated and unstable settlement, predominantly inhabited by migrants with a minimal sense of belonging to their place of residence. This study aims to explain and analyze the urban planning and design factors that impact the quality of informal settlements and evaluate their effectiveness in the Noh-Darreh area of Mashhad. By adopting an infill development approach, the research seeks to propose a viable model for improving the quality of life and habitability in the Noh-Darreh area.
METHODS: This study is purpose-driven and utilizes a mixed-methods research approach, combining qualitative and quantitative methods. Data collection was carried out using the meta-synthesis technique, which involved a systematic review of reliable scientific databases and gathering insights from urban designers, urban managers, and urban development professionals. The findings were assessed using the Delphi technique.
FINDINGS: Based on the assessments, the most influential indicators using a substantive approach are land use and functionality (0.166), building characteristics (0.114), and the permeability of the fabric (0.107). In terms of a procedural approach, the key indicators are urban governance (0.069), social capital (0.067), and the characteristics of development plans (0.042). Additionally, planning and design strategies centered around infill development have been proposed in both the planning and design dimensions to improve the quality of informal settlements in the Noh-Darreh area.
CONCLUSION: The study reveals that targeted urban planning and design can significantly improve the quality of informal settlements through effective infill development. By focusing on key areas such as strengthening public spaces, optimizing land use, enhancing accessibility, protecting physical structures, and preserving the natural environment, we can transform these areas. Also, fostering strong partnerships between government and communities and promoting economic infrastructure can create better opportunities for residents. This approach can revitalize the Noh-Darreh area, turning it into a thriving, sustainable community and securing a brighter future for its residents.

Abstract BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVES: The future of warfare is expected to be increasingly urban. Recent conflicts have demonstrated that cities have become central battlegrounds due to their dense populations, critical infrastructure, and strategic value. Traditional defense mechanisms, such as perimeter fortifications, have proven insufficient against evolving warfare tactics. Despite this growing threat, current urban planning and design practices often prioritize economic and functional aspects, neglecting passive defense measures. To address this gap, this research explores urban planning and design strategies for future cities to enhance their passive defense capabilities, helping them withstand and adapt to enemy attacks while promoting the well-being of their residents.
METHODS: An analysis of the early stages of two ongoing conflicts was conducted to recognize the contemporary behavior of attacks. A literature review was then undertaken to explore peer-reviewed research on passive defense strategies and measures for mitigating these attack behaviors. Based on the findings, planning and design criteria were proposed, and corresponding planning components were identified. Finally, planning and design strategies were developed to enhance the resilience of future cities against potential attacks. The methodology is more qualitative, with references as the basis of analysis and further discussion.
FINDINGS: The study showed that landscape planning and design (22.7%) and urban design (21.3%) were the most frequently identified components in mitigating the effects of attacks.  Urban network planning (17.3%), land use planning (14.7%), and architectural design (14.7%) followed. However, this does not necessarily mean that these components are the most influential in enhancing the passive defense capabilities of future cities, but rather that their impact spans multiple aspects. Additionally, the study highlighted several key strategies for improving the passive defense capabilities of future cities against potential attacks. These include prioritizing naturally protected sites, maintaining low population density, utilizing multiple network patterns and street shapes with T-junctions, implementing an unpredictable polycentric distribution of targets, integrating renewable energy and portable infrastructure solutions, designing homogeneous short blocks with low building density and point-building typology, incorporating low-rise stepped or tapered buildings with rounded corners, centering basements, employing blast-resistant structural systems, and using low-emissive, blast-resistant materials and coatings.
CONCLUSION: Effectively integrating these strategies into future cities requires governments to establish legal frameworks, strengthen interagency coordination, update planning and building codes, mandate passive defense in new construction, incentivize private sector participation, and secure dedicated funding. Moreover, prioritizing citizen education on passive defense, promoting community preparedness, and ensuring effective communication with residents are required.

Abstract BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVES: This study explores the phased approaches of post-war urban re-design to present a collaboration between Artificial Intelligence and traditional processes for post-war urban recovery. A hybrid approach enables stakeholders to actively define their city's future by simulating several re-design scenarios utilizing AI data management. This interactive representation of possible results enables well-informed decision-making, where the advantages and limitations are carefully considered, guaranteeing that the re-design aligns with the requirements and needs of the local communities. This integrative method promotes openness and a feeling of responsibility, establishing the basis for resilient urban environments that emerge from conflict.
METHODS: The study establishes a foundation for using Artificial Intelligence technologies to solve complex urban development challenges by critically examining existing approaches for urban re-design after the war and promoting interventions powered by Artificial Intelligence-driven processes. This study aims to contribute to the field of post-war rebuilding of urban landscapes by developing a solution that can be generalized. This study adopts a qualitative methodology approach to investigate the possible integration of Artificial Intelligence in re-designing urban landscapes post-war. The methodology is structured to examine existing approaches and studies of post-war urban recovery, compare traditional and AI-assisted approaches, and propose a hybrid approach that combines both. The study structure is a literature review and theoretical approach development, data collection, and analysis, depending on multiple sources, including government reports and academic research, as well as hybrid approach development.
FINDINGS: The discussion provides theoretical evidence of the potential advances in this empirical approach, highlighting the efficiency improvements achievable by using Artificial Intelligence technologies in a hybrid phased approach that integrates traditional post-war processes with Artificial Intelligence -assisted ones. The study also highlights the importance of ethical considerations in Artificial Intelligence restoration procedures, addressing acceptance, community involvement, and cultural heritage safeguarding concerns. This emphasis on ethics reassures the audience about Artificial Intelligence's responsible and conscientious use in post-war re-design.
CONCLUSION: The study explores the potential integration of Artificial Intelligence in re-designing postwar urban landscapes. It compares conventional methods of urban revival with innovative Artificial Intelligence-supported methods to determine the advantages of utilizing Artificial Intelligence in post-war urban re-design. Traditional techniques for gathering data, allocating resources, and engaging the community have many challenges that negatively affect the effectiveness of re-designing and re-design measures. This study suggests that integrating Artificial Intelligence with traditional strategies can help overcome these challenges by analyzing extensive datasets, which leads to effective decision-making. A hybrid approach combining conventional and Artificial Intelligence-supported methods is suggested to improve the resiliency and sustainability of the re-designing process. It aims to enhance resource distribution and strategic planning through Artificial Intelligence-assisted strategies.

Abstract BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVES: The urban environment on a university campus is constituted by a complex and multifaceted fabric, comprising a diverse array of elements. An understanding of the configuration and relationships between these elements enables designers and planners to create urban architecture that meets the needs of residents. The present study seeks to identify the specific factors that shape the mental image of the urban fabric of the University of Mosul campus. To this end, it reviews and analyses some related studies.
METHODS: This study used a mixed methodology, including quantitative and qualitative methods, to evaluate the impact of architectural elements on the mental image of a university campus. Qualitative information was collected through interviews with urban design experts and old pioneers, while a semi-structured questionnaire was administered to professors, graduate students, and final-year students at the Department of Architecture to obtain quantitative data. The aim was to build on the data and obtain reliable results.
FINDINGS: The results show the most important elements that impacted the mental image, with the opening elements being the most memorable, as they were recognized with about 92% accuracy. In contrast, the plant elements group had less impact, being identified with approximately 33% accuracy.
CONCLUSION: Understanding the process of forming mental images of the urban environment is crucial for future city quality enhancement. Mental images consist of physical and non-physical elements, and attention to detail, aesthetics, and people's preferences can lead to sustainable urban design. The location, design, and functionality of elements and social activities can significantly impact the mental image, influencing comfort, security, and belonging.

Abstract BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVES: Urban studies, as a field of research, often encounter a certain strictness in determining precise concept definitions. This latter represents the epistemological underpinnings which are considered as the base of their theoretical foundation. Such difficulty in pinpointing an accurate definition is particularly evident in the varying terminology used to describe urban phenomena, ranging from terms like “mutation”, “change”, “transformation”, “gentrification”, and “transition”. Each term carries its own nuances and implications, reflecting the diverse perspectives within the field. In this context, the primary objective of this paper is to evaluate scientific publications within the realm of urban studies to conduct a comprehensive analysis, assessing the frequency and contextual significance of the aforementioned terms in articles about urban mutations. 
METHODS: The article framework involved conducting a bibliometric review of the literature using the “Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses” framework. The first 5595 documents were identified in the Scopus database. After a process of inclusion and exclusion, only 1768 articles spanning from 1981 to 2023 were extracted. These data were then processed using CiteSpace to analyze cooperative networks. This analysis encompasses three key dimensions: Citation, Co-citation, and Co-occurrence.
FINDINGS: Few authors used bibliometrics to address urban mutations comprising only 32 articles, published between 2016 and 2023. The citation analysis revealed Salvati Luca as the most co-cited author, and the United Kingdom as a top contributing country with 287 citations and a centrality value of 0.35. Furthermore, the co-citation analysis ranked the cluster labeled “Urban Change” at the top with 501 citations and 0.917 for silhouette. Meanwhile, the most frequently co-cited journal is “Urban Studies”, boasting 602 co-citations. For the co-occurrences, the term “Urban Change” ranked second in strength burst (35.13), and first in centrality (0.41). The term “Urban Transformation” holds the 19^th position with a centrality score of 0.05. However, this latter ranks 3^rd in the classification by citation (384). “Urban Change”, then, comes in at the 5^th position with 211 citations. The term “Urban Mutation” did not appear in any analysis. “Urban Change” and “Urban Transformation” stand out as the most commonly used. Most references are cited in English.
CONCLUSION: Scientometric analysis is essential for identifying potential correlations within the literature. This helps urban studies utilize discipline-specific terminology, thereby ensuring the rigor and integrity of its concepts. Moreover, this study could be used for other comparisons with different databases, such as Web of Science, Dimensions, and PubMed

Abstract BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVES: Neighborhoods’ public realms get their sustainability from the presence of residents but the COVID-19 pandemic restricted the attendance of people. Hence, in light of the social capital paradigm may be revitalized the public realms. Adopting the approach of social capital and its components namely: social interaction, social participation, and spatial equity can improve the socio-physical characteristics of public realms during the outbreak of COVID-19. The extant study was conducted to evaluate the effect of COVID-19 on public realms of neighborhoods from the point of view of architecture and urbanism experts based on the components of social capital. This study aims to achieve strategies for planning and designing public realms by considering the COVID-19 condition, through which public spaces can be promoted in socio-physical dimensions.
METHODS: This research was quantitative with an inferential approach. The evaluation of 128 different nation scholars has been analyzed with an inferential approach and exploited LISREL8.8 and SPSS23 for their analysis.
FINDINGS: Findings indicate that the indicators of social interaction (Sig. <0.359) and spatial equity (Sig. <0.174) from most experts' views have the same structure and have a significant impact on the public realms of neighborhoods according to the pandemic. Moreover, there is a substantial difference in the social participation (Sig. >0.022) indicators between the two groups of experts.
CONCLUSION: Re-programming activity and restructuring physical (social interaction) developing and expanding green and open spaces and physical and functional flexibility (spatial equity) are the most important indicators for promoting public realms.

Abstract BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVES: This study investigates the intricate connections that exist between place attachment, urban development meanings, and acceptance in urban peripheral settlements. The research aims to gain a better understanding of how people perceive and respond to urban development scenarios in the periphery using the tripartite frameworks of place attachment and the disruption-response model.
METHODS: Utilizing a mixed-methods approach, this study examines people's perceptions and reactions to four hypothetical urban development scenarios by combining qualitative interviews with key participants and then quantitative surveys administered to 256 adult residents of selected peripheral settlements in the rapidly developing city of Malang, Indonesia.
FINDINGS: The findings from the qualitative phase, reveal diverse dimensions shaping the meaning of urban development, encompassing economic, social, cultural, livelihood, and environmental impacts. The survey results' exploratory factor analysis reveals latent factors that capture diverse perspectives on development scenarios, from societal and environmental harm to economic modernization and advancement. The structural equation model reveals that place attachment emerges as a significant predictor of urban development scenario meanings, although the relationship varies across different scenarios. Furthermore, the level of acceptance of urban development scenarios mediates the relationship between place attachment and interpretations, influencing perceptions of economic, social, and environmental impacts. Subsequently, the implications of these findings for existing literature were discussed.
CONCLUSION: This study fills a gap in the disruption-response model by illuminating the interpretation process and showcasing the interplay of place attachment, urban development meanings, and acceptance in peripheral city settlements. Limitations of the study were discussed, and future studies were proposed.

Abstract BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVES: Achieving spatial-place justice in the distribution of urban services is a significant goal for urban planners. It involves ensuring fair and equitable access to resources and services in a physical space so that all individuals can benefit equally from the facilities and opportunities provided in that space. The unfair distribution of urban services has curtailed the presence of pedestrians and limited the daily mobility of citizens, making cities low-mobility environments. To address this issue, urban managers can identify local community issues, create equal opportunities, and promote public participation. By doing so, they can achieve spatial equity in local communities and provide opportunities for equality and justice. This research aims to investigate the relationship between the fair spatial-place distribution of urban services and the mobility of citizens in the Navid and Ab o Bargh areas of Mashhad.
METHODS: This study utilizes a descriptive-analytical approach to investigate spatial justice. Data was collected using the spatial justice questionnaire based on the Likert scale and the International Physical Activity Questionnaire. Researchers assessed the questionnaire's reliability using Cronbach's alpha test and its validity using the content validity coefficient of the item formula. The researchers employed several statistical methods to explore the relationship and correlation between the components of spatial justice and mobility, prioritized the indicators of spatial justice by neighborhoods, and compared the prioritization of the components of spatial justice affecting mobility.
FINDINGS: The results revealed a significant relationship between access to urban services and the mobility of citizens in the studied areas. As such, the positive correlation in the Ab o Bargh area was confirmed for all indicators (functional index (0.466), environmental indicator, (0.384) index aesthetic indicator (0.145). The results suggested a direct relationship between the balanced spatial distribution of urban services and enhanced mobility of citizens in the study area.
CONCLUSION: Research results show a direct relationship between spatial justice and citizen mobility in the city. Spatial justice means the fair distribution of facilities and services between different urban areas and equal access to them by citizens. As a result, citizen mobility in the city is influenced by spatial justice. In other words, Inappropriate distribution of services in the city can cause social differences among citizens. The difference between privileged and underprivileged neighborhoods is in the amount of benefit from urban services. By improving the quality of research indicators in the form of policies and urban planning interventions in all neighborhoods, spatial justice can be realized.

Abstract BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVES: Social and economic processes, which create a combination of capital and intelligence, influence the development of the urbanization process. Urban areas develop together with economic growth. The main factor influencing the growth of the economy is the increase in production, which should be based on quality management through the implementation of a business model for the innovative development of the enterprise in the context of economic security. Thus, the purpose of the research is to define and characterize the components of the business model of an enterprise’s innovative development based on economic security and to describe the main practical aspects of its implementation.
METHODS: Using general scientific and special research methods, the theoretical and categorical content was analyzed and specified, namely, the essence of urbanization, innovative activity, innovative development, and business models of the enterprise’s innovative development were revealed. The main principles contributing to the effective operation of innovative enterprises were defined.
FINDINGS: It was substantiated that strategic business development provided a business model in which all business processes were identified and analyzed, and development was optimized considering correlations. The main features of the business reflected in the business model were specified. Considering that during the implementation of the innovative development strategy, the business model is aimed at managing the chain of innovative value creation, the basic background for the implementation of the business model was determined. To form a model of innovative development in the context of economic security, the aspects of adaptability of innovative development were investigated. The business model of the enterprise’s innovative development in the context of economic security was formed, and its components and their significance were determined. The main practical aspects for implementing the business model of the enterprise’s innovative development were highlighted. It was noted that in the conditions of a dynamic market environment, full of dangers and threats, 40% of the success of further implementation should be based on taking into account well-known theoretical and methodological aspects, and 60% should be the ingenuity of the personnel of the enterprise on which the business model is being formed.
CONCLUSION: The business model ensures the transformation of innovative technologies into economic benefits for the company. The practical application of the proposed business model with selected components would contribute to the increase of the enterprise’s innovative potential and its development during current activity and in the future.

Abstract BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVES: The concept of familiarity (taarof) is one underlying concept of an Islamic city, which has received less attention. Adherence to this concept that is adopted from Quranic teachings has a considerable influence on the neighboring or neighborhood concept. However, the evolutions in the contemporary Iranian community have left this concept in serious challenges over recent decades, causing underlying developments in the concept of neighborhood. This study investigates the advent of challenges threatening the familiarity concept in terms of evolutions in the contemporary history of Iran, particularly in terms of the contemporary political economy of Iran to find how these changes and developments in the political economy have threatened and weakened the concept of familiarity in contemporary Iranian city.
MATERIALS AND METHODS: This study is based on the library-documentary method in terms of data collection, and is based on the logical reason in terms of data analysis and judgment. Logical reasoning encompasses a wide spectrum from computer programs and formulas to cultural discourses and theses, and this study comprises the cultural discourse extreme of this spectrum.
FINDINGS: According to the results of this study, some political economy developments in the contemporary history of Iran, including land reforms, municipalities income generation system, injecting the oil revenue into metropolises, and lack of adherence to principles of land-use planning have led to the advent of the concept of displacement (or relocation) and permanent population changes and migration from rural to urban areas or inside the urban areas (especially in metropolises). Subsequently, such severe population changes have resulted in a weakened concept of familiarity threatening the neighborhood concept.
CONCLUSION: The most important requirement for deepening neighboring relationships and stabilizing the concept of familiarity in the contemporary Iranian city is revising macro-policies of political economy to stabilize the citizens’ settlement in the place they are living by adopting appropriate policies, so this stabilization would lead to longer neighboring relations and deepen the familiarity and familiarity between neighbors. In this case, the issue of displacement can be somewhat solved, and the social harms caused by the weak concept of familiarity can be eliminated in contemporary Iranian cities.

Abstract BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVES: Peri-urban land development is crucial to achieving the UN Sustainable Development Goal of equitable and sustainable urban areas. Fair land, infrastructure, and resource management improves land management services and reduces social and economic inequities. However, the peri-urban land management system has contributed to unequal rapid urbanisation in neighbouring regions. This study examines the complex relationships between peri-urban land development barriers in India. The goal is to understand how these barriers induce unequal urbanization transcending the city, resulting in uncontrolled growth, urban sprawl, and inadequate services in peri-urban areas. The main goal is to improve decision-making and promote fair peri-urban growth in Indian cities using a multi-criteria decision-making tool. This application gives experts a new perspective on peri-urban issues.
METHODOLOGY: A questionnaire-based survey was conducted from 122 planners and academicians from north Indian cities using snowball sampling techniques. The study collects expert perspectives to create a causal map, using DEMATEL ISM method, classifying these barriers as "determinants or causes," "dependent barriers," "independent barriers," and "effects," presenting a new perspective on peri-urban development complexity.  that depicts these roadblocks and highlights the most significant drivers impeding peri-urban land development.
FINDINGS: Findings revealed four interdependent challenges as the leading ‘causes’ on the basis of DEMATEL Weight; Imprecise spatial policies with 0.10119, undemarcated land boundaries with 0.10082, weak institutions with 0.10003, and absence of planning regulations with 0.09945 weight. Within these barriers, addressing the governance capability and spatial policies would have a beneficial cascading effect on catering to other challenges. Findings have valuable insights for policymakers, aiding in the formulation and prioritization of effective policies and resource allocation.
CONCLUSION: This study extensive analysis of causal linkages among Indian city peri-urban land development challenges. Beyond identifying barriers, it explains their causes, interdependencies, and hierarchical links. This study's holistic approach to peri-urban development issues and inventive barrier categorization and prioritisation make it distinctive.

Abstract BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVES: Currently, 56% of the global population, reside in cities, and this urbanization trend is predicted to result in a more than doubling of the urban population by 2050. Similarly, mid-sized Indian cities have exhibited rapid urban growth in recent decades. However, a holistic study focusing on the temporal dynamics of urban growth in all the mid-sized Indian cities is lacking. Therefore, this study aims to investigate the urban growth pattern across eighty-eight mid-sized Indian cities with the help of Census data from 1971-2011.
METHODS: This research, utilizing a quantitative approach, investigates the relationship between economic growth and urban expansion in selected cities. The cities are categorized based on the Gross State Domestic Product of respective states, and the study evaluates changes in municipal areas and demographic growth patterns through the decadal urban expansion rate and decadal population growth rate. The urban growth character is further analyzed by dividing the population growth rate by the decadal urban expansion rate, with a value less than 1 indicating inefficient land utilization. This comprehensive methodology aims to provide insights into the dynamics of urban growth and its correlation with economic development.
FINDINGS: The results revealed that inefficient land utilization for urban growth during 1971-2011 had occurred in thirteen cities from the states with higher Gross State Domestic Product and three cities among the states with lower Gross State Domestic Product. Overall, the mid-sized Indian cities, such as Ajmer (0.65), Solapur (0.67), Asansol (0.79), Mangalore (0.83), Jhansi (0.84), Nellore (0.85), Belgaum (0.86), Thrissur (0.86), and Bareilly (0.89) exhibited the lowest PU values during 1971-2011.The major drivers for urban growth in mid-sized Indian cities are government policies and schemes, industrial growth, rise in Gross State Domestic Product, climatic conditions and terrains, social profile, transportation, and infrastructure.
CONCLUSION: Overall, there has been inefficient land utilization in several cities, particularly those from states with varying levels of Gross State Domestic Product. Noteworthy cities like Ajmer, Solapur, and Belgaum consistently demonstrated efficient land utilization, reflected in their lower Population-to-Urban Expansion (PU) values. The study emphasizes the intricate influences shaping urban growth, encompassing government policies, industrial development, economic factors, climate, social dynamics, and infrastructure. Future research endeavors could further delve into the specific impact of these factors on urban expansion, employing longitudinal analyses, and explore the socio-economic ramifications of efficient or inefficient land utilization, contributing to more informed urban planning and policy formulation.

Abstract BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVES: Making society resilient is considered a critical and challenging issue in mental health planning or stress-relieving urban planning. However; although in recent years, many studies have separately addressed stress and urban resilience, no study has explained the relationship between the two. Therefore, the present study aims to explain the relationship between urban stress and urban resilience in the Region 8 of the District 1 of Tehran Municipality.
 
METHODS: This study is applied descriptive-analytical research. The required data are collected using both quantitative and qualitative methods and analyzed by regression analysis. First, using the library method, the indicators of urban stress and urban resilience were identified, then the study sample was selected using these indicators and the Delphi method. After; that, the information related to the indicators was collected using questionnaire and library methods, and finally, the relationship between urban stress and urban resilience was investigated through multivariate regression.
FINDINGS: The research findings indicate a high correlation between the two abovementioned concepts (correlation coefficient= 0.925). Moreover; the adjusted R² shows that resilience indicators explain 83% of the total variations in urban stress. Also; the most critical indicators affecting the citizens' stress include the status of open space, gender structure of the population, permeability, average building density, education level, resident participation, spatial diversity, citizen's sense of belonging, social diversity, violence, crime, the safeness of the environment, social capital, social solidarity, the strength of buildings, vulnerability to natural hazards, income status, employment status, environmental pollution, access to services, the age structure of the population, and safety, respectively.
CONCLUSION: it is possible to significantly reduce urban stress by enhancing urban resilience and paying attention to its effective indicators.

Abstract ABSTRACT
BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVES: Place attachment is among the most important aspects of the interaction between people and their places, to keep residential environments safe, sustained, and resilient. This study aims to identify the factors that influence the creation and enhancement of place attachment in residential settings, with a focus on physical elements. Given the significance of these factors in architecture and facility programming, the study aims to provide architects and designers with effective strategies for designing and redesigning residential environments. The results of this study on place attachment can be utilized in the architectural facility programming process and design decision-making. 
METHODS: This study proposed a theoretical framework in which the relationship between subjective and objective physical and individual characteristics and time were the main components of making sense of place attachment. Using a survey method, the study investigated the significance of place attachment among residents of the 600-unit residential complex in Mashhad, Iran, through a questionnaire divided into three sections. The first section focused on individual characteristics and time spent in the complex, while the second and third sections measured the objective and subjective physical characteristics and the extent of people's attachment to the complex, respectively. The data from 158 participants were analyzed using SPSS and SmartPLS software.
FINDINGS: Results of SPSS analysis showed objective physical characteristics (p<.01, r=.241), as well as the subjective physical characteristics (p<.01, r=.223) and time (p<.01, r=.237), were the most important components affecting place attachment, highlighting the role of physical strategies used in the residential complex for creating and developing this feeling. Considering these physical factors affecting the establishment and enhancement of place attachment emphasizes the role of architects and planners in satisfying this crucial human need which directly affects people's personal and social health.
CONCLUSION: The results revealed time, subjective, and objective physical characteristics are three factors that have a direct impact on place attachment. Objective physical characteristics have a direct impact on place attachment and also indirectly impact it through their effect on subjective physical characteristics. On the other hand, the relationship between individual characteristics and place attachment is indirect, as individual characteristics affect the time spent in a place, and an increase in time spent leads to a stronger place attachment. The findings can be employed extensively in architectural programming in residential environments to improve the quality of life.

Abstract BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVES: A relatively large number of historic (traditional and old) houses have been restored in Iranian cities in the recent period. Of increasing demand in the era of the experience economy, many are used as cafes, restaurants, galleries, ecolodges, etc. Cultural heritage and urban policies have further provided a general framework and some incentives for the restoration and reuse of these houses. Leveraging a tourism development framework, this paper investigated how authenticity could be achieved in practice in the restoration and reinvention of historic houses.
METHODS: A flexible policy research approach was employed to probe the current framework governing the restoration of historic houses. Another part of the analysis was based on a set of semi-structured interviews and field observations targeting restored historic houses in the city of Shiraz. Specifically, interviews were conducted with owners/operators of the most significant category of reused old houses—those turned into ecolodges—along with visitors.
FINDINGS: Based on the fieldwork results, five general recommendations were provided for owners/operators of restored historic houses/ecolodges toward realizing authenticity: there is a need for pre-planning and employment of adequate knowledge and knowhow to provide authentic experiences to visitors; objective elements should leverage creativity, balance tradition and modernity, and give the establishment its own personality; subjective elements should be reflective of local culture, history, and hospitality; a major aim is to have tourists emotionally engaged with the place and easily interact with people, places, and things; and allowing for co-creation could instill an enduring sense of belonging into visitors.
CONCLUSION: Notwithstanding recommendations for owners/operators of restored historic houses, tourism and urban authorities must focus on the creation of a policy framework that encourages the delivery and management of authenticity. Adopting a stronger socio-cultural approach should help to achieve additional regeneration objectives of local economic development through increased interaction among public-sector agencies, non-governmental institutions, local populations (property-owners or tenants), and investors.

Abstract BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVES: One of the fascinating and complex realities of global development in the 21st century is urbanization. The present study focused on appraising the spatial pattern, nature, and growth drivers in selected peri-urban areas of Jos Metropolis. Accuracy assessment and classification of Landsat Satellite Images, evaluation of the spatial pattern of growth, the nature of growth, and the driving forces of growth were conducted.

METHODS: Data were collected through field observation and questionnaire administration, use of Remote Sensing and Geographic Information System, Global Positioning System, and camera. Satellite imageries used to identify the classes of LULC from 1999 to 2022 were Thematic Mapper (L5_TM) 1999, Landsat 7 ETM+ 2014, and Landsat 8 ETM+ 2022. GPS was used for Ground Truthing, and IDRISI Taiga software was used for image classification and area calculation. ArcGIS 10.1 used to visualize the satellite images and produce maps.

FINDINGS: Results revealed a definite growth rate pattern and land modification trends in the peri-urban areas over the study period. Between 1999 and 2014, fast growth was observed in Farin Gada and Rantya at 42.5% and 35.8% change, respectively; there was slow growth in Sabon-Gari at 7.0% proportion. From 2014 to 2022, growth in Farin-Gada (41.9%), Rantya (35.9%), and Rahowl Kanang (21.9%) proceeded rapidly with Sabon-Gari maintaining the least growth (0.3%). The study observed a linear growth pattern along arterial roads and a dispersed pattern proceeded by land fragmentation as built-ups spread farther from the road corridors. The nature of growth in the peri-urban areas was significantly unplanned, irregular, and disorderly and observed to be massively taking over agricultural land and swallowing up adjoining settlements. The study identified eight drivers that contributed to shaping and propelling growth in the areas.

CONCLUSION: The study recommended that the government should integrate the peri-urban areas into its physical development planning schemes and should enforce an effective Development Control mechanism to manage the spatial growth of these areas. The findings will help planners and policy-makers make informed and unified decisions beyond administrative boundaries. The study also adds to the body of knowledge globally and provides the bases for further research.

Abstract BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVES: Cities are the main energy consumers; they can be a critical solution to threats to energy resources, the environment, and climate change. Knowing the effective indicators in urban planning and design in the energy field is one of the priorities of urban planners and designers. In this regard, Current research in the first step has tried to define a conceptual framework of urban system indicators influential to energy planning in cities.  And in the second step, since climatic characteristics could be as fundamental factors in urban energy planning, the relationship between climatic indicators and urban energy planning indicators has been identified.
METHODS: This study is basic research in terms of purpose and presents a new conceptual framework for the urban energy system. It also aimed to analyses the relationship between the urban energy system indicators and local climate indicators. Its methodology is descriptive-analytical, conducted by library method and survey. Data analysis was done through a combination of quantitative and quantitative methods and descriptive statistical analysis. To do the survey questionnaire and interview experts in the energy field in different countries by using the Delphi method has been done.
FINDINGS: The urban energy system conceptual framework was identified, and it has been divided into seven sub-systems (physical, land use, infrastructure, and transportation, movement/accessibility, cultural and technological), 15 components, and 61 indicators. Also, by analyzing the relationship between urban energy and climate indicators, “Air temperature” is the most related climate indicator from the experts’ view with 682 total scores, followed by “Solar radiation and sunny days”, “greenery” and “wind” indicators respectively with the sum points of 624, 596 and 594 scores in the seven defined urban energy system indicators.
CONCLUSION: A theoretical framework of urban energy systems has been defined based on previous studies and experts' ideas in a comprehensive framework. And by analyzing the relationship between the defined urban energy system and climate indicators, the important indicators were recognized in each group. That could be academic knowledge and a practical source for future urban plans. For future studies, the institutional and economic dimensions of urban energy systems have to be conducted to complete the theoretical framework.