Acta Scientiarum Polonorum Administratio Locorum

Territorial patterns of COVID-19 in Iran

2024-04-02T08:08:06+00:00

Motives: Spatial analysis has become an essential tool in understanding the underlying factors that contribute to the distribution of viral pandemics, diseases, injuries, and mortality patterns. By visualizing geographical data in spatial maps, researchers can identify local distribution patterns and potential drivers behind these patterns. In health and medical sciences, there has been a growing recognition that spatial analysis and mapping techniques are helpful in addressing various challenges related to the allocation of healthcare resource in both urban and rural areas.

Aim: The objective of this study was to analyze the spatial distribution pattern of the COVID-19 pandemic and the Index of Proximity Distribution (IPD) across 31 provinces of Iran between February 2019 and February 2023. A two-stage sampling method combining convenience and cluster sampling was used to examine COVID-19 distribution patterns in 31 provinces of Iran between 22 February 2020 and 22 February 2023. COVID-19 and IPD data were collected as part of this panel study. Data were analyzed using t-tests, chi-square tests, and analysis of variance (ANOVA) in SPSS version 28 (α = 0.05). Subsequently, daily COVID-19 infection data for each province in the analyzed period were processed in ArcGIS software, and the spatial distribution pattern of the pandemic in Iran were visualized by point density analysis. Standard distance and standard deviation ellipse techniques were employed to assess the density or dispersion of infected individuals and to determine the spatial distribution pattern of COVID-19 in Iran. A spatial autocorrelation (Moran’s I) analysis was conducted to identify the spatial distribution pattern of COVID-19 in Iran. Additionally, distance-based spatial autocorrelation was used to examine the prevalence of COVID-19 infection across Iranian provinces. In a grouping analysis, 31 Iranian provinces were classified into five groups based on the number of COVID-19 cases, and spatial statistics were used to examine the prevalence of COVID-19 within each group. A hot spot analysis and a standard distance (SD) analysis were conducted to explore spatial correlations in the number of individuals affected by COVID-19 in each province.

Results: Based on the Moran index, a random spatial pattern with a Z-Score of 1.485 was identified in March 2019, whereas a clustered distribution of COVID-19 with a Z-Score of 3.039 was determined in February 2023. The distance-based spatial autocorrelation analysis revealed a positive value of the Moran index (0.136627) at a distance of 383.3 kilometers from Tehran, which points to positive spatial autocorrelation and a higher number of COVID-19 cases in nearby regions. Conversely, the Moran index assumed a negative value of 0.040246 at a distance of 726.6 kilometers from Tehran, which suggests that the number of pandemic cases decreased over distance from Tehran. Moreover, based on the results of the hot spot analysis, Tehran province was identified as a hot cluster with a higher prevalence of COVID-19 cases in that region. In contrast, Bushehr province was classified as a cold cluster with a lower prevalence of COVID-19 cases in comparison with the surrounding regions. These findings provide valuable insights into the spatial distribution and clustering of COVID-19 cases in Iran. The shift from a random spatial pattern in 2019 to clustered distribution in 2023 indicates that the pandemic spread rate increased over time. The positive spatial autocorrelation near Tehran highlights the role of proximity and population movement in the transmission of the virus. Furthermore, the identification of hot spots and cold spots in a country can inform targeted interventions and resource allocation to effectively manage and control the pandemic. Overall, this study demonstrates the value of spatial analysis in identifying the spatial distribution patterns and the dynamics of the COVID-19 pandemic in Iran. The integration of spatial analysis techniques with epidemiological data contributes to a better understanding of spatial-temporal patterns, facilitates effective public health responses and resource allocation strategies. These findings contribute to the growing body of knowledge on the spatial epidemiology of COVID-19 and can aid in informing future preparedness and response efforts in Iran and other regions that face similar challenges.

What drives Chinese technology imports into Africa? A regional perspective

2024-04-02T08:08:21+00:00

Motives: The factors that affect technology imports from China have never been examined in the literature, and this study was undertaken to fill in this knowledge gap. The factors that drive high-tech imports from China to Africa, including those that negatively impact imports, were identified. The results can be used to implement changes in the trade strategies of African countries, including industry 4.0 strategies or trade agreements with China, and to influence the behavior of companies importing high-tech from China.
Aim: The primary goal is to identify the factors that influence technology transfer, in particular the transfer of electronic and electrical technologies, in the areas of high-tech manufacturing. The second goal is to determine whether these factors have equal strength and direction of influence on different streams of technology transfer.
Results: The study demonstrated that both economic and geographical factors influence technology transfer, defined as two streams of high-tech manufactures: electronic and electrical, as well as other high-tech manufactures. However, the two import streams behaved differently, and different factors affected Chinese imports into Africa.

Application of GIS in land management on the example of Ukraine

2024-04-02T08:08:19+00:00

Motives: Full-scale hostilities that occurred in Ukraine in 2022 have led to significant losses in agriculture and rural areas. These losses pose a serious threat to the country’s food security and may lead to crises on international food markets. Also, to justify information needs and requirements in accordance with legal regulations relating to land use, food security in Ukraine should be considered through continuous monitoring and analysis of the available land resources, and the existing and projected structure of cultivated areas.
Aim: The aim of the study is to provide a theoretical and methodological basis for formulating practical recommendations regarding information and analytical support for the management of land resources through the use of GIS, in particular Earth remote sensing systems, in land management.
Results: To improve the institutional environment for regulating land relations in Ukraine under new conditions of management, the following stakeholders should be considered in the process of managing land resources: 1) government, 2) local authorities, 3) agricultural enterprises, and 4) land owners. The study revealed problems with access to information and analytical support for managing land resources at the level of the central government, territorial self-governments, and agricultural enterprises. Digital transformation has a significant impact on agribusiness because it enables agricultural producers to interact with other stakeholders, compare their performance with competitors, and optimize production processes.

Good architectural design as a catalyst for improving the quality of life in cities

2024-04-02T08:08:29+00:00

The growth of cities has led to multiple transformations that have changed the urban fabric; for this reason, many locations in urban areas remain neglected. The present study was undertaken to search for solutions that would minimize adverse changes in the urban fabric, buildings, and urban spaces. The aim of the study was to present examples of good architectural design that can be considered catalysts that improve the quality of life in cities. Architectural design contributes to urban development not only at the level of individual buildings, but also at the level of the overall quality of urban life. The research methodology involved developing a theoretical framework for the research topic, and applying selected indicators to analyse several international examples and investigate the strategies deployed in various countries around the world. The study demonstrated that good architectural design must be inspired by a city’s history, and that the urban context should be considered in order to integrate new urban development with the surrounding environment through catalytic mechanisms and their indicators. Sustainability, health, education, safety, psychology, material sourcing, and building materials are the most important quality of life (QoL) factors for developing a good architectural project.

Pathways for improving water governance in Western Algeria: A multi-stakeholder analysis

2024-04-02T08:08:24+00:00

The aim of this study is to assess the relationships between the main stakeholders involved in water management in Sidi Bel Abbes city (western Algeria) to establish pathways for good governance, fair allocation and sustainability of water resources. A multi-stakeholder analysis was performed using the MACTOR method (method of actors and power relations) to analyze stakeholder strategies, alliances, and potential conflicts regarding water management. Data for the study were collected mainly during multi-stakeholder workshops with 6 main stakeholders who are directly involved in managing potable water. A field survey of 329 local households was conducted with the use of supplementary questionnaires. This study proposes that the power dynamics among actors should be considered during the decision-making process to improve collaborative interactions and the effectiveness of stakeholders engaged in water management. The research findings show that the stakeholder’s roles and strategies should be coordinated and strengthened to ensure equitable allocation of water. Technical public agencies deploy management strategies that do not consider water quality as a priority, and they are more concerned with other strategic objectives. Additionally, the stakeholders disagree on many issues relating to water management due to overlapping and conflicting powers, which threatens the quality and availability of water resources. The study also demonstrated that the National Sanitation Office could play an important role as a relay stakeholder and that the Hydrographic Basins Agency should strengthen alliances and commitments with all stakeholders. Enhancing the participation of these stakeholders in water management procedures and empowering domestic water end users, particularly in densely populated residential areas, could help bridge divides and foster a unified approach to achieving sustainable water management objectives.

Augmented reality as a technology that supports the spatial development process

2024-04-02T08:08:03+00:00

Motives: The solutions for designing spatial development methods in planning documents are presented as 2D graphics with supplementary descriptions. Due to the lack of specialist knowledge and insufficient spatial imagination, some readers may be unable to understand the graphic and descriptive content of such documents. The above can lead to the construction of objects that disrupt spatial order without violating the law. This problem can be solved by applying augmented reality (AR) in spatial planning. This paper presents the capabilities of a method for visualizing different spatial development variants on the example of buildings. A model of a building plot and the surrounding area, covered by a local spatial development plan, was developed.
Aim: The aim of this study was to determine the applicability of the AR technology for identifying low-precision areas in the plan and its potential impact on the method of land development, with a resulting deterioration in spatial order.
Results: The use of the AR technology enables analyses and assessments of planned development in the context of spatial order and its integration with the existing elements. Visualizations presented with the AR technology show that different interpretations of the local zoning plan generate spatial chaos. The utility of 3D visualization for an average reader was also presented. The AR technology can be used at the stage of preparing planning documents (community participation, adopting the plan), adopting by-laws (councilors), and enforcing these regulations (investors’ decisions).

The effects of VAT reductions on newly built properties and constructions in Hungary

2024-04-02T08:08:26+00:00

Motives: This study was undertaken to determine the feasibility and macroeconomic impact of reduced VAT. As an EU Member State, Hungary may apply reduced tax rates in accordance with the Council Directive 112/2006/EC. In Hungary, due to the high general tax rate, the range of products and services with reduced tax rates plays a special role.
Aim: In Hungary, a preferential VAT regime was introduced to reduce the increase in the price of new-build properties. The aim of this study was to examine whether reduced VAT had the desired effect. Therefore, the effect of 5% VAT on the Hungarian real estate price index was analysed based on the data provided by the Hungarian National Bank with the use of various statistical methods.
Results: The study demonstrated that a reduced VAT rate on newly built properties that meet certain conditions in Hungary had an impact on the real estate market. The date of the building permit, which is a prerequisite for applying a reduced tax rate, increased real estate prices as an immediate effect, which was reduced somewhat by the final consumer price due to the reduced tax rate. This double effect stabilised the real estate market price index.

Spatial analysis of cultural ecosystem services in Lublin: Perception of local residents and tourists

2024-04-02T08:08:08+00:00

Motives: Cultural Ecosystem Services (CES) are perceived differently by local residents and tourists. Therefore, an understanding of spatial patterns in CES is important for urban planning.
Aim: To determine whether residents and tourists differ in their perceptions of CES groups in Lublin, and whether these perceptions are influenced by gender, age, occupation, and frequency of visits.
Results: The relative value of CES groups was ranked in the following descending order of importance: physical, social, cultural, inspirational, and spiritual activities by local residents (n = 138), and inspirational, cultural, spiritual, physical, and social activities by tourists (n = 134). The Wilcoxon test showed that the total and average number of the identified locations was higher among residents than tourists. The chi-square test revealed a difference between the CES categories identified by the local residents (x² = 265.602, df = 5, p < 0.01) and tourists (x² = 25.660, df = 5, p < 0.01).

The European Union’s legislative process in the area of environmental protection in the context of the European environmental policy

2024-04-02T08:08:15+00:00

Motives: This research paper analyzes the legislative process and the implementation of the European Union’s (EU) environmental law as one of the principal tools for achieving and maintaining global ecological safety.
Aim: The study was undertaken to determine how the priorities of the EU’s foreign and internal policy are reflected in the legislative process in the area of environmental protection. The problems associated with law enforcement and the implementation of EU legislative acts in national legislation were also examined, and the current state and prospects for policy-making in the area of environmental protection were assessed. The paper considers environmental policy issues and legal regulations in Azerbaijan in the context of EU experiences. The research covers political and legal relations.
Results: An analysis of the historical transformation of the EU’s environmental law from an institutional and constitutional perspective was combined with an analysis of the principal aspects and the main trends in the EU’s environmental governance and lawmaking. The EU’s contribution to the development of environmental legislation highlights its approach to the multi-layered dimension of environmental governance internally, in terms of the dynamic relationship between the EU and the Member States, as well as internationally. The EU’s policy and legal regulations in the area of environmental protection can serve as a reliable example for countries in which the environmental agenda has not yet received due attention. The above applies to both strategic planning, regulatory issues, and law enforcement practices.

Determining the role of eco-tourism service quality, tourist satisfaction, and destination loyalty: A case study of Kuakata beach

2024-04-02T08:08:11+00:00

The impact of eco-tourism service quality (ETSQ) and destination loyalty on beach tourism, particularly Kuakata Beach in Bangladesh, was examined. The present study builds upon the initial research on ETSQ to assess tourist satisfaction and destination loyalty at Kuakata Beach. Data for the analysis were obtained from 284 tourists who visited Kuakata Beach. The obtained data were processed with the use of SPSS 26 and smartPLS 3. The study demonstrated that ETSQ is significantly linked with tourist satisfaction and destination loyalty. The findings revealed a robust relationship between ETSQ, tourist satisfaction, and commitment to a specific destination. The study has practical implications for eco-tourism promotion by the government, semi-governmental, and non-governmental organizations in Kuakata, other tourist attractions in Bangladesh, and tour operators who could design ETSQ to provide tourist satisfaction tools and recommend tourist destinations.

Providing asylum – Spatial distribution of accommodation facilities for Ukrainian refugees against the background of local conditions in a less developed Polish region

2024-04-02T08:08:00+00:00

Motives: The war in Ukraine has led to the need to help millions of refugees. Poland has issued the highest number of first residence permits to Ukrainian refugees, and it is the second most popular destination country for the Ukrainians taking long-term refuge. Polish society has shown commendable solidarity – individuals have hosted Ukrainian refugees in their homes, businesses provided shelter in tourist sites, and other organizations – in their facilities. This study highlights an important issue that is usually overlooked in academic studies. Many refugees benefited from the assistance of reception points for accommodation and were directed to places where accommodation was arranged. As a result, thousands of refugees were directed to less developed regions with higher unemployment rates and lower income levels.
Aim: The study aimed to present the spatial distribution of the currently used accommodation financed by the Polish state in a less developed region against its socio-economic characteristics. The study focused on powiats (counties), the second-level unit of administration in Poland.
Results: The spatial distribution of accommodation facilities was not based on the favorable
socio-economic attributes of the area but solely on the availability of premises that could be promptly adapted for shelter purposes.