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29 pages, 19979 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Perceptual Evaluation of Street Quality in Underdeveloped Ethnic Areas: A Random Forest Method Combined with Human–Machine Confrontation Framework Provides Insights for Improved Urban Planning—A Case Study of Lhasa City

by Chong Liu, Yang Yu and Xian Yang

Buildings 2024, 14(6), 1698; https://doi.org/10.3390/buildings14061698 - 7 Jun 2024

Viewed by 324

Abstract

The utilization of street view big data is increasingly being used to uncover visual characteristics and spatial perceptions of urban streets. However, there is a lack of studies that combine street view big data for perceptual evaluation in underdeveloped ethnic areas and better [...] Read more.

The utilization of street view big data is increasingly being used to uncover visual characteristics and spatial perceptions of urban streets. However, there is a lack of studies that combine street view big data for perceptual evaluation in underdeveloped ethnic areas and better street quality. This study integrates deep learning methods to create a human–computer confrontational model for perception score, with a focus on the central city of Lhasa in Tibet. Pearson correlation analysis was conducted on six dimensions of perception data (beautiful, wealthy, safe, lively, boring and depressing) and visual elements. The streets in the top 20% for both visual elements and perceptual scores were identified to reveal areas with high visual element proportions and high perceptual scores. The spatial distribution characteristics and correlation between visual elements and street perceptions were thoroughly analyzed. The findings of this study reveal that the central city of Lhasa exhibited high percentages of visual elements in buildings (88.23%), vegetation (89.52%), and poles (3.14%). Out of the six perceptions examined, the highest scores were for boring (69.70) and depressing (67.76) perceptions, followed by beautiful (60.66) and wealthy (59.91) perceptions, with lively (56.68) and safe (50.64) perceptions receiving the lowest scores. Visual components like roads (−0.094), sidewalks (−0.031), fences (−0.036), terrain (−0.020), sky (−0.098), cars (−0.016), and poles (−0.075) were observed to have a significant deterring effect on the boring perception, while other visual elements showed a positive influence. This investigation seeks to provide valuable insights for the design and advancement of urban streets in marginalized ethnic localities, addressing a void in perception research of urban streets in such areas. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Advanced Studies in Urban and Regional Planning)

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14 pages, 4453 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Adaptive Flexibility of the City’s Complex Systems

by Sara Abdul Aalie Rasheed, Wahda Shuker Al-Hinkawi and Mohammed Fareed Sherzad

Buildings 2024, 14(6), 1683; https://doi.org/10.3390/buildings14061683 - 6 Jun 2024

Viewed by 347

Abstract

The city represents a complex adaptive system consisting of a set of interconnected subsystems within self-organization and flexible structures that give it the ability to adapt to continue operating over time. This research discusses the adaptive flexibility of the complex urban system by [...] Read more.

The city represents a complex adaptive system consisting of a set of interconnected subsystems within self-organization and flexible structures that give it the ability to adapt to continue operating over time. This research discusses the adaptive flexibility of the complex urban system by measuring the degree of complexity and adaptation of secondary systems within the general system depending on its kinetic and visual system, making it self-organized and within a coherent and harmonious unit. Thus, the research problem arises from “the lack of knowledge on how to determine the appropriate degree of complexity and adaptation for urban systems, providing them with adaptive flexibility that allows them to maintain their energy and ensure their survival and continuity over time”. This research aims to determine the adaptive flexibility of the complex urban system, which keeps it self-organized and able to survive depending on its kinetic and visual system that links the secondary systems of the general system based on the degree of complexity and adaptation ideal. The research adopted quantitative analysis, which includes calculating the adaptive dimensions of the complex system based on the kinetic and visual system, as well as the nodes connecting the parts of the secondary system, in addition to determining both the area and the perimeter of the study area. The historic Karkh area in Baghdad was selected for implementation because it includes a model of the complex system that originated and developed within different time stages. The system’s adaptive flexibility was calculated to determine its ability to survive and continue. This research found that it is possible to determine the strength of the urban format and its ability to survive or not, as well as the possibility of developing it, by understanding the ideal degree of adaptive flexibility for the format. This ideal degree is 1, achieved through visual and kinetic coherence among the nodes that make up the parts of the format. The farther the format is from this degree, the less adaptive flexibility it has, which affects its ability to survive and continue. Therefore, it is necessary to maintain the strength of the interconnections between the parts of the kinetic and visual system and between the parts of the complex format, which directly affects its ability to self-regulate and survive. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Advanced Studies in Urban and Regional Planning)

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22 pages, 9609 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Research on Work Performance of Monolithic Precast Concrete Shear Walls with Post-Cast Epoxy Resin Concrete

by Peiqi Chen, Zihao Liu, Xiaojie Zhou, Shuo Xu and Junyi Wang

Buildings 2024, 14(6), 1675; https://doi.org/10.3390/buildings14061675 - 5 Jun 2024

Viewed by 267

Abstract

Precast concrete structures are popular in the building industry because of their high efficiency and environmental friendliness. In this paper, the U-type reinforcement ferrule connection technique was applied to study the seismic performance of precast concrete shear walls. Five shear wall finite element [...] Read more.

Precast concrete structures are popular in the building industry because of their high efficiency and environmental friendliness. In this paper, the U-type reinforcement ferrule connection technique was applied to study the seismic performance of precast concrete shear walls. Five shear wall finite element models and four shear wall specimens were prepared. Both experiments and finite element analysis were conducted to explore the impact of parameters on the work performance of precast reinforced concrete shear walls, such as the variety of post-cast concrete, the form of horizontal joints, and the buckle length of U-type reinforcements. On this basis, the mechanism of failure as well as the characteristics of hysteresis, ductility, and energy dissipation capacity were analyzed. According to the analytical results, the cast in situ reinforced concrete shear wall is inferior to the precast shear wall with post-cast epoxy resin concrete in terms of seismic performance. In addition, the specimen with a keyway on the horizontal joint interface outperforms the specimen without a keyway. With an increase in the buckle length of the U-type reinforcement, there is a rise in the sectional height and stiffness of the hidden beam at the bottom of the wall, while the horizontal load-bearing capacity of the wall is improved. However, its ductility and energy dissipation capacity are decreased. As revealed by a thorough analysis, the construction scheme most suitable for precast shear wall horizontal joints adopts epoxy resin concrete as the post-cast material, the buckle length of U-type reinforcements is approximately one-third the height of the horizontal joint, and there is a keyway at the interface of the joint. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Advanced Studies in Urban and Regional Planning)

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22 pages, 4701 KiB

Open AccessArticle

A Synergetic Perspective on the Planning of the “City in a Park”: A Case Study of the Sichuan Tianfu New Area, China

by Siyu Chen, Jian Qiu, Mei Yang and Jing Li

Buildings 2024, 14(6), 1542; https://doi.org/10.3390/buildings14061542 - 26 May 2024

Viewed by 392

Abstract

The “City in a Park” (CIP) is a new concept of urban transformation and development proposed in China in recent years, guiding the construction of healthy and sustainable living environments. This paper analyzes urban planning based on the CIP concept from a synergetic [...] Read more.

The “City in a Park” (CIP) is a new concept of urban transformation and development proposed in China in recent years, guiding the construction of healthy and sustainable living environments. This paper analyzes urban planning based on the CIP concept from a synergetic perspective, aiming to explore how the integrated planning of ecological spaces and built environments can promote systematic sustainable development in ecology, economy, and society. This research employs methods including document collection, unstructured interviews, field observations, and participatory observation, focusing on a case study of the Sichuan Tianfu New Area (STNA), a demonstration zone for the CIP. The study finds that the planning of the STNA extends the planning scope of urban ecological spaces beyond the traditional urban construction boundaries, not only preserving the natural resources but also enhancing the city’s overall sustainability through regional ecological services. By designing ecological spaces as green infrastructure that connects urban and rural areas, the primary sector is more readily integrated with the secondary and tertiary sectors, facilitating the integration of the urban and rural infrastructure and industries. The STNA integrates urban and rural administrative divisions, builds a cross-departmental collaborative management platform, and guides public participation in the planning process, ensuring the efficiency and effectiveness of planning implementation and enhancing the equitable sharing of social services. This research provides new insights into comprehensive, cross-disciplinary, and ecology-oriented urban planning. It offers evidence for an understanding of the application pathways and effects of the CIP concept in urban planning practice and provides valuable experience for other cities to promote harmonious coexistence between the city and nature. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Advanced Studies in Urban and Regional Planning)

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26 pages, 17848 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Adaptability and Interconnectedness in Latin American Innerburbs: An Assessment of the Public/Private Interface in Informal Settlements

by Carlos Augusto Martínez Muñoz and Francisco Javier Maroto Ramos

Buildings 2024, 14(5), 1378; https://doi.org/10.3390/buildings14051378 - 11 May 2024

Viewed by 524

Abstract

An “Innerburb” is an urban structure that emerged between the 1950s and 1980s, settled in rural areas, and is considered the first periphery of the Latin American city. This structure results from socio-spatial and territorial evolutionary processes, constituting the pinnacle of informal evolution. [...] Read more.

An “Innerburb” is an urban structure that emerged between the 1950s and 1980s, settled in rural areas, and is considered the first periphery of the Latin American city. This structure results from socio-spatial and territorial evolutionary processes, constituting the pinnacle of informal evolution. However, despite offering a comprehensive perspective on the informal problem, innerburbs have been scarcely reviewed in the literature. This article explores the Latin American innerburb by adopting as a method a comparative study of the public/private interface in the cases of San Cosme in Lima, Villa Rodolfo Ricciardelli in Buenos Aires and Vila Heliopolis in São Paulo, evaluating their adaptation and interconnection with the city through morphological indicators, using morphological mapping through satellite images as an analytical tool, and using Space Syntax as a topological approach in the analysis of connectivity and visibility indicators. The objective of the research is the detection of morphological patterns that alter the functioning of the public/private interface in innerburbs. The results show that the existence of impermeable facades, the lack of public spaces and the illegal appropriation in the development of informal practices are transgressive adaptability patterns at the micro-scale that affect the interface, drastically limiting the interconnection between the innerburb and the formal fabric, restricting its morphological openness and affecting the development of socioeconomic activities. As a discussion and conclusion, corrective measures for progressive improvement in innerburbs are established, focusing on the adaptability of housing and road space as a means of interconnection between the innerburb and the city. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Advanced Studies in Urban and Regional Planning)

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19 pages, 4109 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Resilience-Vulnerability Balance and Obstacle Factor Analysis in Urban Flooding: A Case Study in the Qinghai–Tibetan Plateau

by Wenjing Wang, Chao Xu, Junchao He, Zhongwen Chi, Weilan Bai and Rui Liu

Buildings 2024, 14(5), 1274; https://doi.org/10.3390/buildings14051274 - 1 May 2024

Viewed by 555

Abstract

Under the combined influence of climate change and urban development, the risk of urban flooding caused by extreme weather events has increased significantly, making assessing flood vulnerability and resilience increasingly crucial for urban flood management. With the 45 counties in Qinghai Province as [...] Read more.

Under the combined influence of climate change and urban development, the risk of urban flooding caused by extreme weather events has increased significantly, making assessing flood vulnerability and resilience increasingly crucial for urban flood management. With the 45 counties in Qinghai Province as the research objects, the hazard risk of flood and exposure are combined to study their vulnerability. At the same time, resilience is evaluated by the indicators selected from four dimensions (society, economy, environment, and infrastructure). Through Z-scoring, the vulnerability and resilience of each county are clustered into four groups to explore their associations from a spatial balance perspective. Obstacle factor analysis is introduced to summarize the key factors affecting the improvement of urban resilience in Qinghai Provence. The results show that the eastern areas of Qinghai experience high vulnerability to flooding because of high levels of hazard and exposure. What is more, Xining, Haidong, and Haixi experience a high level of resilience. A strong spatial mismatch between vulnerability and resilience exists in Qinghai, with 24 counties (58%) being self-adapted, 8 counties (18%) over-abundant, and 11 counties deficient in terms of nature–nurture. The length of levee and number of beds in medical institutions are the main obstacles to resilience in Qinghai. The research results can provide a theoretical and scientific basis for future urban flood management and resilience development in the Qinghai–Tibetan Plateau. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Advanced Studies in Urban and Regional Planning)

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16 pages, 9479 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Spatial Gradient Differences in the Cooling Island Effect and Influencing Factors of Urban Park Green Spaces in Beijing

by Chao Xu, Wenjing Wang and He Zhu

Buildings 2024, 14(5), 1206; https://doi.org/10.3390/buildings14051206 - 24 Apr 2024

Viewed by 579

Abstract

Urban park green spaces exhibit significant cool island effects, which can effectively mitigate the urban heat environment. Clarifying the characteristics and differences in the cool island effects of urban parks across different spatial gradients within cities is instrumental in identifying potential issues and [...] Read more.

Urban park green spaces exhibit significant cool island effects, which can effectively mitigate the urban heat environment. Clarifying the characteristics and differences in the cool island effects of urban parks across different spatial gradients within cities is instrumental in identifying potential issues and optimizing the structure and resource allocation of park green spaces in a scientifically rational manner. This study focuses on parks within the central urban area of Beijing, utilizing remote sensing image interpretation and land surface temperature (LST) inversion to extract relevant characteristics of park green spaces and the park cool island intensity (PCI) index. Various mathematical and statistical methods including correlation analysis, regression analysis, and cluster analysis are employed to conduct comparative studies across three gradients: within the 3rd ring road, between the 3rd and 5th ring roads, and outside the 5th ring road. The analysis reveals that both park green space characteristics and urban heat island effects exhibit spatial gradient differences, collectively influencing the cool island effects of urban park green spaces. PCI gradually decreases across the three spatial gradients. Cluster analysis identifies four distinct types of parks with different cool island effect characteristics, highlighting the need for optimization and improvement in over half of the parks. Various indicators of park green space characteristics show different correlations with PCI, with variations in correlation strength and thresholds across gradients. The fitting effects of regression equations for each characteristic indicator and PCI gradually worsen from within the 3rd ring road to outside the 5th ring road, with different factors playing important roles across gradients. This study enhances our understanding of the cool island effects of urban park green spaces and facilitates the proposition of differentiated optimization management strategies for urban park green space planning and system construction in different regions. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Advanced Studies in Urban and Regional Planning)

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21 pages, 14665 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Research on the Classification of Rail Transit Stations and Passenger Flow Patterns—A Case from Xi’an, China

by Li Chen, Yuan Chen, Yupeng Wang and Ying Li

Buildings 2024, 14(4), 1068; https://doi.org/10.3390/buildings14041068 - 11 Apr 2024

Viewed by 481

Abstract

Transit-oriented development (TOD) has been promoted and implemented worldwide through the efficient integration of rail transit stations and land use. However, the interactions between stations and the surrounding catchment areas (CAs) are characterized by different features of the built environment and regional development. [...] Read more.

Transit-oriented development (TOD) has been promoted and implemented worldwide through the efficient integration of rail transit stations and land use. However, the interactions between stations and the surrounding catchment areas (CAs) are characterized by different features of the built environment and regional development. Therefore, it is necessary to develop a quantitative classification method for rail transit stations based on the built environment within a CA and to identify the passenger flow characteristics of different types of stations to develop targeted planning and design policies. In this study, Line 1 and Line 2 within the third ring road of Xi’an City were taken as the objects, and a station classification system was constructed by taking station traffic levels and different building functions within the CA as the classification factors. Secondly, indicators of the built environment, such as six different types of functions, were calculated through refined vector modeling, and 30 typical stations were typologically analyzed. Furthermore, 10 typical types—totaling 11 stations—were selected for passenger flow monitoring, and the passenger flow characteristics of the different types of stations were summarized in terms of the dimensions of stations and exits. Finally, the correlations between the indicators of the built environment and passenger traffic for different functions were quantified. This study provides a basis for the future optimization of stations and the built environment, as well as station design and management. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Advanced Studies in Urban and Regional Planning)

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23 pages, 3999 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Design Strategies to Improve Metro Transit Station Walking Environments: Five Stations in Chongqing, China

by Chungui Yao, Gaoyuan Li and Shuiyu Yan

Buildings 2024, 14(4), 1025; https://doi.org/10.3390/buildings14041025 - 6 Apr 2024

Viewed by 887

Abstract

While transit-oriented development (TOD) has been widely adopted in urban design alongside the expansion of urban metro transit, the creation of pedestrian-friendly environments has often been overlooked during implementation. This has resulted in a lower walking advantage around metro transit stations. To address [...] Read more.

While transit-oriented development (TOD) has been widely adopted in urban design alongside the expansion of urban metro transit, the creation of pedestrian-friendly environments has often been overlooked during implementation. This has resulted in a lower walking advantage around metro transit stations. To address this issue and encourage walking and public transport use in metro transit station areas, this study undertook a quantitative comparative analysis of the pedestrian environment in five Chongqing metro transit station areas. The analysis focused on three key dimensions: “comprehensive evaluation”, “basic scale”, and “structural quality”. The comprehensive evaluation considered factors such as the pedestrian catchment area ratio, POI kernel density distribution, and crowd agglomeration. The basic scale dimension comprised floor area ratio, building density, pedestrian road density, and the quantity of station entrances and exits. Finally, structural quality factors included land use type mixing degree, POI function mixing degree, intersection connectivity, median street length, pedestrian route directness, and green view index. Based on these analyses, this study proposes a series of pedestrian environment design strategies including land use and transportation. The strategies for land use advocate for “developing compact and diverse land use”, “strengthening attraction of station center”, “positioning large projects on the edge”, “restricting private transportation capabilities”. The strategies for transportation consist of “increasing pedestrian road density”, “traffic calming organization”, “subdivision of road types”, and “three-dimensional pedestrian traffic system”. These strategies aim to create a more humanized and environmentally friendly pedestrian environment, proactively rise to the challenge of climate change, thereby cultivating sustainable urban development. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Advanced Studies in Urban and Regional Planning)

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14 pages, 1254 KiB

Open AccessArticle

The Contextuality of Dongdaemun Design Plaza and Park, an Iconic Building in Seoul—A Study Based on Fuzzy Statistical Analysis

by Zeheng Cao and Jae-Eun Yoon

Buildings 2024, 14(4), 1011; https://doi.org/10.3390/buildings14041011 - 5 Apr 2024

Viewed by 697

Abstract

For many cities around the world, the construction of iconic buildings is a major strategy to improve their urban space and enhance recognition. Yet, newly built iconic buildings usually spark controversy owing to their relationship with the urban context of the city. In [...] Read more.

For many cities around the world, the construction of iconic buildings is a major strategy to improve their urban space and enhance recognition. Yet, newly built iconic buildings usually spark controversy owing to their relationship with the urban context of the city. In this study, revolving around Dongdaemun Design Plaza and Park, we analyze and evaluate the functional influences of its reconstruction on the urban context of Seoul. We found that though the DPP has a positive effect on the city image and cultural exchange of Seoul, it is barely satisfactory for maintaining and extending the urban context. Through the combination of a random sampling questionnaire and triangular fuzzy number analysis, we transfer previous subjective comments about the DPP into an objective evaluation, analyze its influence on the dimension of culture, and call for consideration of the continuity of the urban context in future urban planning. The results of this study provide a new perspective on quantifying the urban contextual influence of iconic buildings, reminding city planners of the balance between the development of business and the sustainability of the urban context. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Advanced Studies in Urban and Regional Planning)

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18 pages, 296 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Power Dynamics in Collaborative Governance Processes: A Case Study of a Disadvantaged Neighbourhood in Southern Spain

by Antonio Delgado-Baena and Antonio Sianes

Buildings 2024, 14(4), 1002; https://doi.org/10.3390/buildings14041002 - 4 Apr 2024

Viewed by 743

Abstract

This study focuses on assessing collaborative governance from the perspective of power dynamics in a disadvantaged neighbourhood in southern Spain: Las Palmeras. Increasing global urbanisation in recent decades has exacerbated problems of segregation within cities, posing a major challenge to achieving healthy urban [...] Read more.

This study focuses on assessing collaborative governance from the perspective of power dynamics in a disadvantaged neighbourhood in southern Spain: Las Palmeras. Increasing global urbanisation in recent decades has exacerbated problems of segregation within cities, posing a major challenge to achieving healthy urban environments for harmonious coexistence. Public policies have struggled to address this challenge, particularly following the adoption of the United Nations’ 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development and its Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), which have underlined the importance of fostering inclusiveness and sustainability in urban environments. In this context, collaborative governance has emerged as a prominent strategy for democratising the implementation of public policies in urban contexts. However, the efficacy of collaborative governance is hampered by the dynamics of power relations, which limits its effectiveness. The aim of this study is understanding how these dynamics mediate collaborative processes in urban regeneration contexts, an area little addressed so far. Through a case study and the systematisation of experiences, the study proposes strategic recommendations for managing these dynamics within collaborative governance. The insights drawn from this study can serve as a basis for better addressing urban challenges, thus fostering greater inclusiveness and sustainability in urban areas as well as offering valid lines for future research in the field. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Advanced Studies in Urban and Regional Planning)

24 pages, 3583 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Between Laws and Trends: Unraveling the Dynamics of Vertical Housing Units’ Development under Institutional Forces in the Brazilian Amazon

by Frederico Guilherme Pamplona Moreira, Alexander Hierro Ferreira de Souza, José Maria Coelho Bassalo and Milton Cordeiro Farias Filho

Buildings 2024, 14(3), 727; https://doi.org/10.3390/buildings14030727 - 8 Mar 2024

Viewed by 856

Abstract

This paper is based on the recognition of a phenomenon occurring in the real estate market of Belém, Pará, in the Brazilian Amazon. The phenomenon refers to the relative increase in the size of the balconies of residential apartments launched in the city [...] Read more.

This paper is based on the recognition of a phenomenon occurring in the real estate market of Belém, Pará, in the Brazilian Amazon. The phenomenon refers to the relative increase in the size of the balconies of residential apartments launched in the city between 2005 and 2017 by construction companies, with the aim of increasing the number of units built per tower. Given that balconies were originally areas of low frequency for the occupants of apartments in this region, the aim of this article was to identify and analyze the institutional factors that support this product development strategy, which is becoming increasingly consolidated among companies. To investigate this phenomenon, we collected data from official documents provided by the Municipal Urban Planning Department (Secretaria Municipal de Urbanismo—SEURB), specifically focusing on the launch of residential high-rise buildings during the specified period. Regression techniques with ordinary least squares methods were applied, as well as econometric models of spatial autocorrelation. The results of the hypothesis tests confirmed the relationship between the restrictive parameters imposed by the city’s Urban Master Plan and the relative increase in apartment balconies. The spatial autocorrelation models confirmed the spatial spillover effect, showing that apartment projects with this characteristic tend to be concentrated in certain areas of the city, influencing each other. In order to discuss this phenomenon, the institutional theory was the protagonist of the analysis, showing how an organizational strategy can adapt to the authority that regulates the occupation of urban land in the city, meeting the two market forces and the demand and supply of apartments. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Advanced Studies in Urban and Regional Planning)

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25 pages, 7708 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Environmental Sustainability Study of Urban Waterfront Landscapes Based on the LCA–Emergy–Carbon Footprint and Artificial Neural Network Method

by Gang Jiang, Lanlan Zuo, Ashish T. Asutosh and Junxue Zhang

Buildings 2024, 14(2), 386; https://doi.org/10.3390/buildings14020386 - 1 Feb 2024

Viewed by 1119

Abstract

The ecological landscape design of urban rivers plays a crucial role in mitigating the urban heat island effect and preserving urban ecology. This study focuses on the construction process data of key landscape nodes along Nanjing’s urban rivers. By employing a whole life [...] Read more.

The ecological landscape design of urban rivers plays a crucial role in mitigating the urban heat island effect and preserving urban ecology. This study focuses on the construction process data of key landscape nodes along Nanjing’s urban rivers. By employing a whole life cycle emergy approach and carbon emission method, the sustainable changes in the landscape system are quantitatively assessed. Furthermore, artificial neural networks have been used to conduct long-term sustainability analysis and predictions for the landscape system. The research findings reveal that over time, the maintenance investment in landscape projects gradually becomes dominant, increasing from 2% in the first year to approximately 75% after 30 years. This phenomenon signifies a decline in the efficiency of the landscape system. Sustaining the ecological balance of the landscape system necessitates continuous inputs of material flow, energy flow, and information flow. The major contributors to carbon emissions in the landscape engineering system are diesel fuel, cement, and steel. This highlights opportunities for sustainable improvement from a low-carbon perspective. To enhance the ecological sustainability of urban waterfront landscapes, three measures are proposed: sponge city construction concepts, coupled sewage treatment systems, and information flow monitoring systems. The effectiveness of these measures was preliminarily validated. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Advanced Studies in Urban and Regional Planning)

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25 pages, 18218 KiB

Open AccessArticle

An Experimental Study on Flexural-Shear Behavior of Composite Beams in Precast Frame Structures with Post-Cast Epoxy Resin Concrete

by Peiqi Chen, Shuo Xu, Xiaojie Zhou and Dezong Xu

Buildings 2023, 13(12), 3137; https://doi.org/10.3390/buildings13123137 - 18 Dec 2023

Cited by 1 | Viewed by 776

Abstract

Epoxy resin concrete has superior mechanical properties compared to ordinary concrete, and will play an increasingly important role in urban construction. In this paper, the application effect and prospect of epoxy resin concrete in precast composite frame structures are discussed. Taking the joint [...] Read more.

Epoxy resin concrete has superior mechanical properties compared to ordinary concrete, and will play an increasingly important role in urban construction. In this paper, the application effect and prospect of epoxy resin concrete in precast composite frame structures are discussed. Taking the joint surface of the old and new concrete at the end of the composite beam as the research object, three specimens were devised and fabricated. Subsequently, a horizontal cyclic load test was conducted, and the seismic performance indices were analyzed. Multiple finite element models were established to assess the influence of precast concrete strength, the diameter of the longitudinal bar of the beam, the shear span ratio, and the epoxy resin concrete post-cast area, among other factors, on the seismic performance of the beam end. Four findings indicate the following: Firstly, epoxy resin concrete, characterized by its high performance attributes, can be used as a post-cast material in precast concrete structures. Secondly, when the strength of the post-cast epoxy concrete approximates or slightly exceeds that of the precast concrete, and the ratio of longitudinal reinforcement and shear span ratio are appropriately balanced, the operational performance of the composite beam frame structure is enhanced. In addition, when post-cast epoxy resin concrete is employed in the beam-column joint area, the mechanical performance of the composite beam end in the joint area matches or even surpasses that of the structure that was cast in situ. And subsequently, the expansion of post-cast area resulted in better mechanical performance. Finally, when the area of post-cast epoxy resin concrete is a non-node area, the mechanical properties of the composite beam end are worse than the former. However, the amount of epoxy resin concrete used will be greatly reduced, and as the precast node area expands, the bearing capacity of the beam end will increase and gradually approach the cast-in situ structure, indicating that this construction scheme also has advantages. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Advanced Studies in Urban and Regional Planning)

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29 pages, 14012 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Entropy Change of Historical and Cultural Heritage in Traditional Tibetan Area of China Based on Spatial-Temporal Distribution Pattern

by Xiwei Xu, Junyu Zhang, Shupeng Liu, Jiaqi Liu, Zhen Zhang and Xiaoyuan Tian

Buildings 2023, 13(12), 2995; https://doi.org/10.3390/buildings13122995 - 30 Nov 2023

Viewed by 1279

Abstract

The traditional Tibetan area of China is an ethnically and culturally significant region with a historical geographical connection. This study investigates the spatial-temporal distribution patterns and entropy changes of historical and cultural heritage by examining the association between cultural heritage and socio-historical factors. [...] Read more.

The traditional Tibetan area of China is an ethnically and culturally significant region with a historical geographical connection. This study investigates the spatial-temporal distribution patterns and entropy changes of historical and cultural heritage by examining the association between cultural heritage and socio-historical factors. It utilizes analytical methods such as information entropy and incorporates temporal, spatial, and typological information from the data obtained in the Third National Cultural Relics Census. The findings are as follows: (1) The three major regions in the Tibetan area of China alternately serve as development cores for the traditional Tibetan area, exhibiting a fluctuating “dispersion-aggregation” trend of historical and cultural heritage, which also displays notable regional variations. (2) The quantity and entropy change of historical and cultural heritage exhibit correlations between different periods, but there are also some intergenerational differences. (3) The spatial-temporal distribution pattern of historical and cultural heritage demonstrates an inter-era correlation, indicating that socio-historical development is a nonlinear process characterized by both “transition” and “accumulation”. These findings are of significant importance for further understanding the social evolutionary process of human settlements in high-altitude areas and for the comprehensive protection of cultural heritage in ethnic regions. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Advanced Studies in Urban and Regional Planning)

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17 pages, 27979 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Analyzing the Spatial Interaction Characteristics of Urban Area Shared Bicycle Systems: A Case Study of Beijing’s Central Area

by Dongwei Tian, Zheng Wen and Yao Sun

Buildings 2023, 13(10), 2646; https://doi.org/10.3390/buildings13102646 - 20 Oct 2023

Cited by 2 | Viewed by 1173

Abstract

Shared bicycle systems play a crucial role in promoting sustainable urban transportation, addressing challenges such as traffic congestion and air pollution. Understanding the spatiotemporal patterns of shared bike usage is essential for optimizing bike-sharing infrastructure and improving transportation planning. In this study, we [...] Read more.

Shared bicycle systems play a crucial role in promoting sustainable urban transportation, addressing challenges such as traffic congestion and air pollution. Understanding the spatiotemporal patterns of shared bike usage is essential for optimizing bike-sharing infrastructure and improving transportation planning. In this study, we analyzed 2.4 million records of shared bicycle data to explore the spatial distribution, interaction patterns, and flow dynamics within Beijing’s urban central area. We found that bike distribution peaks during commuting hours, particularly in central regions with employment centers. Complex networks are an important method for studying travel flows. Through a spatial interaction network, we identified key streets with high node strength and popularity, often concentrated in central areas. They experience heavy shared bicycle use during peak hours due to their employment-centric location. Conversely, peripheral areas see increased usage in the evenings, reflecting distinct commuting patterns. The morning exhibits higher positive central values compared to the evening, while negative values show the opposite trend. Based on these findings, we recommend enhancing bike infrastructure in high-density areas with bike lanes and ample shared bikes during peak hours. Implementing mixed-use zoning policies in the central region can reduce traffic congestion. Expanding shared bike services to peripheral regions can promote equitable access. This research underscores the importance of considering spatial and temporal factors in urban transportation planning. Future work should incorporate additional data sources, explore environmental impacts, and analyze usage in different seasons and special events, further contributing to sustainable urban mobility development. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Advanced Studies in Urban and Regional Planning)

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17 pages, 3875 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Study on Community Detection Method for Morning and Evening Peak Shared Bicycle Trips in Urban Areas: A Case Study of Six Districts in Beijing

by Yao Sun, Zheng Wen, Dongwei Tian, Man Zhang and Yue Hou

Buildings 2023, 13(10), 2446; https://doi.org/10.3390/buildings13102446 - 26 Sep 2023

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Abstract

Examining the clustering characteristics and fluctuations within urban areas during peak hours through the lens of bike-sharing is of utmost importance in the optimization of bike-sharing systems and urban transportation planning. This investigation adopts the principles of urban spatial interaction network construction and [...] Read more.

Examining the clustering characteristics and fluctuations within urban areas during peak hours through the lens of bike-sharing is of utmost importance in the optimization of bike-sharing systems and urban transportation planning. This investigation adopts the principles of urban spatial interaction network construction and employs streets as the fundamental units of analysis to model bike-sharing activities during morning and evening peak hours within Beijing’s six central districts. Subsequent to this, a comprehensive analysis of the network’s structural attributes was carried out. A Walktrap method, rooted in modularity analysis, was introduced to discern and scrutinize the clustering patterns and characteristics of communities within the network across different temporal intervals. Empirical findings reveal a predominant usage pattern of shared bicycles for short-distance travel during both morning and evening peak hours. Notably, distinctive community structures manifest during these periods, characterized by two large communities and multiple smaller ones during the morning peak, while the evening peak showcases a single large community alongside several medium-sized and smaller ones. Moreover, the extended interaction radius points to an expanded geographic range of interactions among streets. These findings bear significant implications for the management of urban transportation, bike-sharing enterprises, and urban residents, proffering valuable insights for the optimization of bike-sharing schemes and transportation strategies. These research findings not only contribute to enhancing urban transportation planning and bike-sharing systems but also provide robust guidance for advancing more efficient and sustainable urban transportation solutions, thereby fostering the sustainable development of cities. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Advanced Studies in Urban and Regional Planning)

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21 pages, 8664 KiB

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Strategies for the Preservation of Historic Areas within Existing Middle Eastern Cities: The Case of Historic Jeddah

by Mohammed Aloshan, Islam Elghonaimy, Essam Mesbah, Moustafa Gharieb, Khaled Mahmoud Heba and Mohammed Humaid Alhumaid

Buildings 2024, 14(3), 717; https://doi.org/10.3390/buildings14030717 - 7 Mar 2024

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Abstract

During the recent founding of Saudi Arabia in 1932, there was no interest in the urban and architectural heritage that Jeddah possesses. As a result, historic Jeddah was exposed to many problems similar to many historical Middle Eastern cities. For example, the historic [...] Read more.

During the recent founding of Saudi Arabia in 1932, there was no interest in the urban and architectural heritage that Jeddah possesses. As a result, historic Jeddah was exposed to many problems similar to many historical Middle Eastern cities. For example, the historic city wall and many heritage buildings were demolished. With the economic recovery during the 1970s, the original dwellers abandoned the city altogether. They were soon replaced by a class of ex-patriate workers who would inhabit the area, and the city’s distinct heritage fell into neglect. At the beginning of the 1980s, attempts to preserve that area began with the expert Robert Matthew, who studied the remaining historical buildings and proposed strategies for preservation that were based on three main directions: restoration, replacement, or new construction. The issuance of “Saudi’s 2030 vision” included programs to develop Saudi cities, including Jeddah. This program includes the removal of unplanned and slum areas around historic Jeddah without developing a clear master plan for what will replace them. In addition, it includes the complete expropriation of historic Jeddah, without announcing a specific plan for what the area will be used for. Therefore, this study seeks to review current preservation strategies, with the aim of reaching results related to the challenges facing the area; demonstrating the effectiveness of the preservation strategies used; and deducing what could contribute in the future to the development, preservation, and optimal exploitation of the area, without losing its value as a result of the modernization processes currently taking place. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Advanced Studies in Urban and Regional Planning)

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25 pages, 657 KiB

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Greenhouse Gas Emissions in Railways: Systematic Review of Research Progress

by Diogo da Fonseca-Soares, Sayonara Andrade Eliziário, Josicleda Domiciano Galvincio and Angel Fermin Ramos-Ridao

Buildings 2024, 14(2), 539; https://doi.org/10.3390/buildings14020539 - 17 Feb 2024

Cited by 1 | Viewed by 2040

Abstract

Rail transportation plays a crucial role in reducing carbon emissions from the transportation system, making a significant contribution to environmental impact mitigation due to the efficiency of passenger and freight rail transportation. Accurate assessment of carbon emissions resulting from rail transit is essential [...] Read more.

Rail transportation plays a crucial role in reducing carbon emissions from the transportation system, making a significant contribution to environmental impact mitigation due to the efficiency of passenger and freight rail transportation. Accurate assessment of carbon emissions resulting from rail transit is essential to quantify the positive impact of this mode of transportation on overall urban transport emission reduction. Given that measuring carbon emissions throughout the lifecycle of rail transportation involves a wide array of factors, adopting a systematic framework for analyzing these aspects is crucial. This study conducts a comprehensive review of existing research related to carbon emissions in rail transportation and its mitigation. Initially, the distinct characteristics of carbon emissions associated with rail transportation are identified, along with the complexity involved in accurately measuring these emissions. Subsequently, a comparison and analysis are conducted regarding various models for measuring carbon emissions in rail transportation. Finally, the study examines some greenhouse gas emission measurement research within the railway system. Redirecting research efforts toward measuring carbon emissions in the rail transportation system is essential to help the development of robust and effective public policies. This measure will play a crucial role in emission reduction, climate change mitigation, and the promotion of more sustainable transportation. Furthermore, the identified results propose which LCA methodology offers a valuable framework improving the quality of railway transportation emissions for future generations. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Advanced Studies in Urban and Regional Planning)

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