Geographical Landscape Research Articles

RETRACTED ARTICLE: Wildfire risk exploration: leveraging SHAP and TabNet for precise factor analysis

BackgroundUnderstanding the intricacies of wildfire impact across diverse geographical landscapes necessitates a nuanced comprehension of fire dynamics and areas of vulnerability, particularly in regions prone to high wildfire risks. Machine learning (ML) stands as a formidable ally in addressing the complexities associated with predicting and mapping these risks, offering advanced analytical capabilities. Nevertheless, the reliability of such ML approaches is heavily contingent on the integrity of data and the robustness of training protocols. The scientific community has raised concerns about the transparency and interpretability of ML models in the context of wildfire management, recognizing the need for these models to be both accurate and understandable. The often-opaque nature of complex ML algorithms can obscure the rationale behind their outputs, making it imperative to prioritize clarity and interpretability to ensure that model predictions are not only precise but also actionable. Furthermore, a thorough evaluation of model performance must account for multiple critical factors to ensure the utility and dependability of the results in practical wildfire suppression and management strategies.ResultsThis study unveils a sophisticated spatial deep learning framework grounded in TabNet technology, tailored specifically for delineating areas susceptible to wildfires. To elucidate the predictive interplay between the model’s outputs and the contributing variables across a spectrum of inputs, we embark on an exhaustive analysis using SHapley Additive exPlanations (SHAP). This approach affords a granular understanding of how individual features sway the model’s predictions. Furthermore, the robustness of the predictive model is rigorously validated through 5-fold cross-validation techniques, ensuring the dependability of the findings. The research meticulously investigates the spatial heterogeneity of wildfire susceptibility within the designated study locale, unearthing pivotal insights into the nuanced fabric of fire risk that is distinctly local in nature.ConclusionUtilizing SHapley Additive exPlanations (SHAP) visualizations, this research meticulously identifies key variables, quantifies their importance, and demystifies the decision-making mechanics of the model. Critical factors, including temperature, elevation, the Normalized Difference Vegetation Index (NDVI), aspect, and wind speed, are discerned to have significant sway over the predictions of wildfire susceptibility. The findings of this study accentuate the criticality of transparency in modeling, which facilitates a deeper understanding of wildfire risk factors. By shedding light on the significant predictors within the models, this work enhances our ability to interpret complex predictive models and drives forward the field of wildfire risk management, ultimately contributing to the development of more effective prevention and mitigation strategies.

Early Cold War Counterinsurgency: The Romanian Campaign in Comparative Perspective (1944-1962)

ABSTRACT This paper offers a comparison between Romanian communist counterinsurgency (1944–1962) and similar campaigns fought by Western and Eastern governments in the early Cold War, in particular those waged by the British and French governments in their African, Asian and European colonies and those of the Soviet Union in its borderlands. The comparison focuses on three main components, population control, intelligence and military operations. Highlighting both similarities and differences across different cultural, economic, geographical, ethnic and political landscapes, the perspective laid out in this paper is an argument in favour of systematic and sustained comparative approaches to asymmetric warfare.

Digitalisierung und Georeferenzierung einer überdimensionalen historischen Karte der Landvogtei Neuland (Winsen/Luhe) mittels Structure-from-Motion (SfM) Photogrammetrie

AbstractThe study of historical maps has gained significant importance in recent years due to their ability to shed light on past geographical and topographic landscapes since they serve as crucial sources for understanding past conditions. They not only provide insights into the geography and topography during the time they were created but also allow for studying long-term changes over time. In this study, an oversized historical map of the Bailiwick of Neuland from the years 1780 to 1790 was discovered in the archives of the municipal building office in Winsen an der Luhe, Germany. The map, measuring approximately 5 m × 2 m, was digitised by photogrammetric methods and subsequently georeferenced. The process involved photographing the map with two different cameras and two UAV systems at the Geodetic Laboratory of HafenCity University Hamburg. This allowed to generate a high-resolution orthophoto from each data set. The resulting orthophoto achieved a pixel size of 0.2 mm, ensuring a detailed representation of the map. To ensure accuracy, the best photo block was scaled in a bundle block adjustment using ground control points with an accuracy of 1 mm and scale bars with an accuracy of 0.1 mm. Georeferencing of the historical map was conducted using current digital orthophotos of Lower Saxony with a resolution of 20 cm. A third-degree polynomial transformation was applied during georeferencing, resulting in mean residuals of 2.5 m at the ground control points. This process ensured that the historical map was accurately aligned with the current digital orthophotos, allowing for precise spatial referencing.

Urban Functional Zone Classification Using Light-Detection-and-Ranging Point Clouds, Aerial Images, and Point-of-Interest Data

Urban Functional Zones (UFZs) serve as the fundamental units of cities, making the classification and recognition of UFZs of paramount importance for urban planning and development. These differences between UFZs not only encompass geographical landscape disparities but also incorporate socio-economic information. Therefore, it is essential to extract high-precision two-dimensional (2D) and three-dimensional (3D) Urban Morphological Parameters (UMPs) and integrate socio-economic data for UFZ classification. In this study, we conducted UFZ classification using airborne LiDAR point clouds, aerial images, and point-of-interest (POI) data. Initially, we fused LiDAR and image data to obtain high-precision land cover distributions, building height models, and canopy height models, which served as accurate data sources for extracting 2D and 3D UMPs. Subsequently, we segmented city blocks based on road network data and extracted 2D UMPs, 3D UMPs, and POI Kernel Density Features (KDFs) for each city block. We designed six classification experiments based on features from single and multiple data sources. K-Nearest Neighbors (KNNs), random forest (RF), and eXtreme Gradient Boosting (XGBoost) were employed to classify UFZs. Furthermore, to address the potential data redundancy stemming from numerous input features, we implemented a feature optimization experiment. The results indicate that the experiment, which combined POI KDFs and 2D and 3D UMPs, achieved the highest classification accuracy. Three classifiers consistently exhibited superior performance, manifesting a substantial improvement in the best Overall Accuracy (OA) that ranged between 8.31% and 17.1% when compared to experiments that relied on single data sources. Among these, XGBoost outperformed the others with an OA of 84.56% and a kappa coefficient of 0.82. By conducting feature optimization on all 107 input features, the classification accuracy of all three classifiers exceeded 80%. Specifically, the OA for KNN improved by 10.46%. XGBoost maintained its leading performance, achieving an OA of 86.22% and a kappa coefficient of 0.84. An analysis of the variable importance proportion of 24 optimized features revealed the following order: 2D UMPs (46.46%) > 3D UMPs (32.51%) > POI KDFs (21.04%). This suggests that 2D UMPs contributed the most to classification, while a ranking of feature importance positions 3D UMPs in the lead, followed by 2D UMPs and POI KDFs. This highlights the critical role of 3D UMPs in classification, but it also emphasizes that the socio-economic information reflected by POI KDFs was essential for UFZ classification. Our research outcomes provide valuable insights for the rational planning and development of various UFZs in medium-sized cities, contributing to the overall functionality and quality of life for residents.

Parental Income's Impact on Student Participation in Lesson Activities for Equitable Educational Outcomes

Aims: This study aims to investigate the relationship between parental income and student participation in lesson activities among secondary schoolchildren in Sri Lanka. The primary objectives is identifying potential differences based on parental income levels, and providing valuable insights into the broader implications for educational equity. Study Design: Employing a survey and quantitative research design, this study gathers data from 1350 secondary school students. The research focuses on diverse aspects of student participation, including group work, discussions with teachers and family, experiments, practical activities, and interactions through social media. A Likert Scale with five response options is utilized to measure student engagement, offering a comprehensive view of their involvement. Place and Duration of Study: The study is conducted in secondary schools across Sri Lanka. Data collection spans a specified duration, ensuring a representative sample of participants. The diverse geographical and socio-economic landscape of Sri Lanka enriches the study's scope, allowing for a nuanced understanding of the interplay between parental income and student participation. Methodology: A stratified random sampling technique is employed to select 1350 participants, ensuring a diverse representation of secondary school students. The questionnaire, validated by experts in the sociology of education, comprises two sections: one gathering demographic information and the other assessing students' perceptions of their involvement in lesson activities. Descriptive and inferential statistics, facilitated by the Statistical Package for the Social Sciences (SPSS) Version 23, enable a comprehensive analysis of the data. Results: Descriptive analysis reveals a moderately high overall level of student participation in various lesson activities. Notably, group activities receive the highest mean value, indicating a strong positive correlation with student engagement. The multivariate analysis of variance (MANOVA) demonstrates significant differences based on parental income levels, with upper-middle-class students exhibiting higher participation than their peers from lower-income backgrounds. Conclusion: The study concludes by highlighting the crucial role of parental income in shaping students' educational experiences. Findings underscore the disparities in engagement levels, emphasizing the need for targeted interventions and policy initiatives to promote educational equity. Educators, policymakers, and parents are urged to consider these insights to foster a more inclusive and equitable educational system in Sri Lanka.

In-Vitro Acetylcholine Esterase Enzyme Inhibition Potential of Siddha Formulation Vilvaver Chooranam: A Neuroprotective Assay

Background and Aim: Alzheimer's disease (AD) is a progressive neurodegenerative condition evidenced by significant cognitive dysfunction. The state of cognitive impairment is made worse by increased levels of the enzyme acetylcholinesterase (AChE), which is crucial in the hydrolysis of the neurotransmitter acetylcholine (ACh). Siddha therapy gaining higher momentum in recent days due to its global acceptance considering its broad spectral safety and therapeutic window. Siddha originated from the southern geographic landscape of Asia now spreading its wings across the bounders in managing dreadful diseases like AD. The main objective of the present study is to evaluate AChE inhibition of the Siddha formulation Vilvaver Chooranam (VVC). Materials & Methods: In-Vitro Acetylcholine esterase enzyme inhibition Potential of Siddha formulation Vilvaver Chooranam by Ellman’s method. Results:Results obtained from the study clearly demonstrate that the formulation VVC has shown promising acetylcholinesterase at stipulated concentration dose-dependently. Maximum percentage inhibition of about 54.53 ± 3.475 % was observed at 500μg/ml with the IC50 value of 411.9 ± 30.6 µg/ml when compared to that of the Physostigmine, a known AChE Inhibitor with a maximum inhibition 93.44 ± 4.434 % at the concentration of 40μg/ml with the IC50 value of 10.38± 5.29 µg/ml. Conclusion: These findings demonstrate the remarkable potential of these extracts as valuable sources of antioxidants with interesting acetylcholinesterase inhibitory activity.

Self-training guided disentangled adaptation for cross-domain remote sensing image semantic segmentation

Remote sensing (RS) image semantic segmentation using deep convolutional neural networks (DCNNs) has shown great success in various applications. However, the high dependence on annotated data makes it challenging for DCNNs to adapt to different RS scenes. To address this challenge, we propose a cross-domain RS image semantic segmentation task that considers ground sampling distance, remote sensing sensor variation, and different geographical landscapes as the main factors causing domain shifts between source and target images. To mitigate the negative impact of domain shift, we propose a self-training guided disentangled adaptation network (ST-DASegNet) that consists of source and target student backbones to extract source-style and target-style features. To align cross-domain single-style features, we adopt feature-level adversarial learning. We also propose a domain disentangled module (DDM) to extract universal and distinct features from single-domain cross-style features. Finally, we fuse these features and generate predictions using source and target student decoders. Moreover, we employ an exponential moving average (EMA) based cross-domain separated self-training mechanism to ease the instability and disadvantageous effect during adversarial optimization. Our experiments on several prominent RS datasets (Potsdam, Vaihingen, and LoveDA) demonstrate that ST-DASegNet outperforms previous methods and achieves new state-of-the-art results. Visualization and analysis also confirm the interpretability of ST-DASegNet. The code is publicly available at https://github.com/cv516Buaa/ST-DASegNet.

Innovative Strategies in Logistics and Supply Chain Management: Navigating Modern Challenges

In the current landscape of global commerce, logistics and supply chain management stand at the forefront of both opportunity and challenge, significantly influenced by the relentless march of globalization and the rapid pace of technological innovation. As companies strive to maintain competitive edges, the intricacies of managing the flow of goods, information, and capital across vast geographic and digital landscapes have become more pronounced than ever. This comprehensive paper delves into the heart of these complexities, dissecting the pivotal aspects of digital transformation, environmental sustainability, and robust resilience within supply chain ecosystems. By weaving together a rich tapestry of contemporary literature and illustrative case studies, this exploration yields a wealth of practical insights. It underscores the necessity of integrating cutting-edge digital technologies such as the Internet of Things (IoT), artificial intelligence (AI), and blockchain to streamline supply chain operations and enhance real-time decisionmaking. Simultaneously, it highlights the growing imperative for sustainability, pushing organizations to implement eco-friendly practices and reduce carbon footprints in a bid to address mounting environmental concerns. Furthermore, the paper addresses the vital issue of supply chain resilience, examining strategies that can enable businesses to withstand disruptive events and rebound from challenges with agility and minimal impact. Within these discussions, the document underscores innovative strategies capable of elevating logistics and supply chain efficiency, advancing green initiatives, and ensuring that these complex networks can adapt and thrive amidst an ever-shifting global business milieu. By meticulously analyzing the intersection of these critical factors, the study presents a blueprint for navigating the intricate web of modern-day logistics and supply chain dynamics, offering guidance for practitioners aiming to excel within this fast-evolving sector.

Sustainable development of geological resources: the Characteristics of Red Karst Landscape and Tourism Development in Tongren, Guizhou

<abstract> <p>China is rich in karst resources and famous for its karst landscape. As a part of karst, the popularity of red karst is obviously low and has received little attention; moreover, the related scientific research and tourism development are relatively immature. Therefore, this paper takes the red karst in Tongren, Guizhou as the research object, analyzes the characteristics and causes of the red karst, comprehensively evaluates its landscape value, and puts forward development strategies and protection suggestions. Through the above research, the following three research results are obtained. (1) On the basis of a field investigation and a literature review, the geographical situation, background, and landscape characteristics of the red karst landform and its surrounding areas in Tongren City were investigated in detail. It forms isolated peaks, rock walls, protruding rocks, stone pillars, and other forms. The most prominent features of the red karst landscape in Tongren City are that the color is red and white, and the shape is concave and convex in order. (2) Geochemical test and structural data collection and analyses of the collected samples were performed. The obtain concave layer rock is dolomitic limestone, and that convex lay rock is argillaceous dolomitic limestone. Because the convex layer rock sample is high in silicon element content, the convex layer rock sample is not easy to be weathered, is rich in clay mineral, and is not easy to be corrode; the convex layer rock sample gradually protrudes with the passage of time to form an uneven shape. The red karst landform is developed in either the rock stratum or tectonic zone with moderate tectonic deformation intensity. First, the formation of a single-layer honeycomb morphology requires that the rock stratum is subjected to a sufficient horizontal compressive stress at a certain burial depth. Second, it is necessary to widely exist in areas with relatively gentle rock formation occurrence; too strong of a structural deformation will make the rock formation occurrence steep, which is not conducive to the occurrence of differential dissolution between adjacent strata. (3) Through the construction of an evaluation index system, the red karst in Tongren City is evaluated, and it is concluded that the geological heritage value is high, and the development and utilization conditions are weak. The conclusion of this article is a supplement to the geological and geomorphological system characteristics of southern karst. From the perspective of world natural heritage, the study enriches the academic evidence of red karst and enables its exemplary role to be well played. From the perspective of the tourism development value, more people should be made aware of the diverse types of karst landforms, which provide experience and suggestions for the value of landforms, tourism resources, and tourism development in similar areas.</p> </abstract>

Geographic Differences in Availability and Access to Care Services for Asthma and COPD: Case Study of Vancouver Coastal Health, British Columbia.

Background: With a diverse geographic and sociocultural landscape, Vancouver Coastal Health (VCH) Authority (British Columbia, Canada) encompasses both urban and rural regions, providing a case study to examine the delivery of care services for asthma and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD). To better understand the landscape of care services within VCH, we aimed to (1) identify asthma and COPD care services availability in urban and rural communities and (2) identify where asthma and COPD quality improvement (QI) initiatives were implemented and their implementation-related characteristics. Methods: An environmental scan was conducted to identify asthma and COPD care services provided in VCH communities. A literature review was conducted to determine where VCH asthma and COPD QI initiatives were implemented and identify their implementation-related characteristics. This case study was analysed descriptively and summarised in tables and figures. Results: The environmental scan analysis revealed that specialty outpatient care, pulmonary rehabilitation, respiratory education and clinical smoking cessation services were limited in urban and unavailable in rural VCH communities. Spirometry services were limited in urban and rural VCH communities. Cross-referencing recommendations from asthma and COPD clinical practice guidelines against prevalence data, we estimated that rural VCH communities could provide 0%-23% of required spirometry while urban could provide 40%-75%. Further, of the 16 asthma and COPD QI initiatives identified within 21 papers, none were conducted at rural VCH healthcare sites. Conclusion: Our findings suggest rural VCH communities have lower access to asthma and COPD care services and the limited urban care services were insufficient to make up for this difference. Past asthma and COPD QI initiatives have not apparently translated to care service improvements in rural regions. Future QI initiatives should focus on overcoming barriers to conducting and participating in QI to improve urban and rural regions' access to asthma and COPD care services.

ЭТНОГРАФИЯ УЛИЦЫ У ЧУВАШЕЙ БАШКОРТОСТАНА

The domesticated objects of the Chuvash people of Bashkortostan and adjacent territories, represented by settlements, housing and outbuildings, are an important component of traditional views about space. The example of these objects clearly demonstrates how the conditions that create a life support system interconnected with the natural geographic landscape, sociocultural and socio-economic state of the population are reproduced. A man demonstrates a personal (special) attitude towards settlements, houses and outbuildings. First of all, these are the traditions of the construction business that have formed over the centuries, as well as religious and ceremonial views projected onto domesticated objects and reflecting the ideological picture of the world. The article presents factual confirmations of the existence of stable connections between the Chuvash people living within the ethnic territory of settlement and the Chuvash people who moved to other regions. The transformation was expressed in the development and modernization of settlements, in the traditions of building of housing and outbuildings, as well as in the ethnography of the street. The village space was actively involved in the cycle of family rituals — in wedding, maternity and funeral and memorial activities. The street of the settlement served for communication and exchange of news, where inhabitants made decisions on holding ritual events or convocation of help. The crossroads of the street and the alley, as the central square of the settlement, was also often a place of gathering and communication. Innovations associated with new conditions of the natural geographical landscape, interethnic interactions, legislation and administrative regulation, collectively demonstrate the particularities of the studied region. The combination of the traditional and the new in ethnic culture presents a synthesis of historical memory and innovations.

Theoretical aspects of the impact of geographical factors on the basketball game

Embarking on a scholarly expedition through the intricate intersection of geography and basketball, this article delves into the theoretical aspects of the impact of geographical factors on the game. As we navigate this comprehensive exploration, we will dissect five pivotal dimensions, each contributing to the nuanced relationship between the geographical landscape and basketball's multifaceted dynamics. From the lofty altitudes affecting players' prowess to the climatic nuances shaping their performance, the enduring impact of extensive travels, the geographic analysis of talent emergence, and the transformative role of sports infrastructure – our journey traverses these theoretical realms. Together, let us unravel the intricate threads that bind geography and basketball, fostering a deeper understanding of how these factors weave into the sport's very fabric, shaping its course and influencing the athletes who grace the hardwood. Join us as we embark on an intellectual odyssey, unveiling the theoretical intricacies that underscore the profound interplay between geography and the captivating world of basketball.

Restricted dispersal and inbreeding in a high‐elevation bird across the ‘sky islands’ of the European Alps

AbstractAimHigh‐elevation specialist species are threatened by climate change and habitat loss, and their distributions are becoming increasingly reduced and fragmented. In such a context, dispersal ability is crucial to maintain gene flow among patches of suitable habitat. However, information about dispersal is often lacking for these species, especially for those taxa that are usually considered as good dispersers such as birds. We adopted a landscape genomics approach to investigate dispersal in a climate‐sensitive high‐elevation specialist bird. Our aims were to assess the levels of gene flow within a wide mountain area, and to assess the effects of geographic distance and landscape characteristics on dispersal, by testing the isolation by distance (IBD) hypothesis against the isolation by resistance (IBR) hypothesis.LocationEuropean Alps.Taxon Montifringilla nivalis. MethodsWe sampled individuals from several breeding areas and obtained single nucleotide polymorphism (SNP) data by ddRAD sequencing. We then calculated site‐ and individual level genetic distances and individual inbreeding coefficients. To test IBD versus IBR, we related genetic distances to both geographic distances and different measures of landscape resistance by using maximum likelihood population effects models.ResultsGene flow among breeding areas was partly restricted, and we found support for IBD, indicating that geographic distance limits snowfinch dispersal. Spatial patterns of genetic distances suggested that philopatry strongly contributed to determine the observed IBD. High inbreeding coefficients in several individuals indicated frequent mating among relatives.Main ConclusionsRestricted dispersal and frequent inbreeding within ‘sky island’ systems can also occur in highly mobile species, because their potential ability to cover very large distances can be counteracted by high philopatry levels that are likely related to high dispersal costs. IBD and philopatry will increasingly hinder snowfinch dispersal among suitable areas within the future more restricted and fragmented breeding range, increasing the risks of local extinctions.

The path of creating order of Tibetan Chinese literature structure under the consciousness of national community

From the generation of natural geographical landscape to the specific experience perception of the subject, and then to the presentation, dissemination and acceptance of text materialized description, landscape images have experienced a series of generation processes of symbolic meaning. Natural geographical landscape and humanistic geographical landscape have continuously generated the emotional pulse and narrative logic of regional writers, which have become a solid foundation for writers' creative experience in various periods. On the basis of personal perception and experience accumulation, the characteristics of snow landscape and regional emotional connection have become an important material source for Tibetan regional writers' literary writing.

ROLE OF ARTIFICIAL INTELLIGENCE IN ELECTRIFICATION OF AFRICA

The research explores the relationship between Artificial Intelligence (AI) and electrification in Africa, focusing on the challenges and emerging trends. The electrification deficit in Africa poses a significant impediment to economic development and social progress. This paper explores the pivotal role that Artificial Intelligence (AI) plays in addressing the challenges associated with electrification initiatives across the African continent. With its capacity for innovation and optimization, AI emerges as a transformative force capable of revolutionizing the planning, deployment, and management of electrification projects in a region characterized by diverse geographical landscapes and economic constraints. The paper investigates the potential of AI in addressing financial barriers associated with electrification projects. By facilitating innovative financing models, reducing operational costs, and attracting investments, AI contributes to creating sustainable and economically viable electrification solutions. The focus extends to decentralized energy systems and microgrids, exploring how AI can empower remote and underserved communities with reliable access to electricity. The socio-economic impact of AI-driven electrification initiatives is also scrutinized, emphasizing the potential for job creation, economic growth, and improved living standards. The paper discusses the importance of capacity building and local empowerment to ensure that AI technologies are effectively integrated into electrification projects while fostering inclusive and sustainable development. It highlights the role of AI in revolutionizing electrification, predicting electricity consumption and enabling decentralized solutions. AI-driven electrification has shown economic and social benefits, including enhanced productivity, improved quality of life, and increased market access. However, it also raises ethical concerns and privacy implications. The research emphasizes the need for proactive mitigation strategies and collaborations across sectors to drive regulatory frameworks, technological innovations, and global impact. The research envisions a future where AI plays a central role in fostering inclusive growth, connecting communities, and illuminating a digitally transformed and sustainable continent.
 Keywords: Artificial Intelligence, Electrification, Africa, Electricity, Energy

Exploring the Landscape of AI-SDN: A Comprehensive Bibliometric Analysis and Future Perspectives

The rising influence of artificial intelligence (AI) enables widespread adoption of the technology in every aspect of computing, including Software-Defined Networking (SDN). Technological adoption leads to the convergence of AI and SDN, producing solutions that overcome limitations present in traditional networking architecture. Although numerous review articles discuss the convergence of these technologies, there is a lack of bibliometric trace in this field, which is important for identifying trends, new niches, and future directions. Therefore, this study aims to fill the gap by presenting a thorough bibliometric analysis of AI-related SDN studies, referred to as AI-SDN. The study begins by identifying 474 unique documents in the Web of Science (WoS) database published from 2009 until recently. The study uses bibliometric analysis to identify the general information, countries, authorship, and content of the selected articles, thereby providing insights into the geographical and institutional landscape shaping AI-SDN research. The findings provide a robust roadmap for further investigation in this field, including the background and taxonomy of the AI-SDN field. Finally, the article discusses several challenges and the future of AI-SDN in academic research.

Queer Affects in the Wandering Films of Antonio Hens

This article proposes an analysis of queer affects as they manifest in the films Clandestinos (2007) and La partida (2013), directed by the Spanish filmmaker Antonio Hens. Our exploration situates these films within a complex transnational framework, a context that not only shapes Hens’s authorial poetics, driven by the imperatives of production within his own film company but also exerts a profound influence on the subjectivity of the queer adolescent characters, a distinctive recurring compositional element throughout Hens’s oeuvre. Both films abound with thematic elements revolving around nomadic subjective experiences, encompassing themes of displacement, deterritorialization, spatial disjunctions, national estrangement, and an enduring yearning for alternative geographical contexts. Hens’s cinematic techniques amplify a pronounced sense of wandering nomadism and queer itinerancy. Within the scope of this article, we embark on an exploration of nuanced representations of queer subjects and their intimate or romantic relationships in various geographic settings. This analysis employs critical paradigms linked to the concepts of homonationalism, queer migration, and emotional intelligibility. Hens’s ‘wandering films’ adroitly utilize male characters who traverse intricate geographic landscapes. These are youthful and sexually fluid figures navigating a complex web of intimate and public urban spaces consistently tethered to notions of national identity. Consequently, these films identify the convergence of corporeal experiences and geographic environments as the locus where ineffable queer affective experiences manifest.

“Bats are our identity”: the role of bats as urban identity in Watansoppeng city, Indonesia

ABSTRACTThe study of urban identity in urban planning and design literature often pays attention to architectural elements and geographical landscapes. These components are considered features that make a city easy to remember and distinguish it from others, but biotic elements also have the potential to form these identities. Reports showed that these elements are not maintained in urban regeneration projects. Therefore, this study aimed to reveal the role of biotic elements as urban identity, with the case of bats in Watansoppeng. Data were collected using interviews, observation, and documentation. They were then analyzed qualitatively with the directed content analysis method using the ATLAS.ti 22 software. The results showed the significant role of bats as a form of urban identity through visual, behavioural, and cerebral components. Another role was found through the cosmological component of the community. Bats are not only the city’s uniqueness but have also become an élan vital.

RESEARCH ON THE DIRECTIONS OF MONITORING THE USE OF REAL ESTATE IN SETTLEMENTS

Monitoring real estate assets in settlements is pivotal in effective territorial management. Accurate information on the status and utilisation of these assets is essential for informed decision-making, resource allocation, and the sustainable development of lands within settlements. This research delves into the multifaceted methodologies used to achieve these objectives. The driving force behind this research is the demand for data-driven, geolocation-based decision-making. The precise evaluation of real estate assets within settlements is indispensable for efficient land use planning, infrastructure development, and the prudent management of natural resources. In the ever-evolving urban landscape, comprehending the dynamics of real estate assets is strategically imperative, facilitating optimal resource allocation and sustainable growth. Populated areas often present intricate, multi-layered geographical landscapes. Conventional real estate monitoring methods, such as manual inspections and paper documentation, often fall short of the required timeliness and accuracy for effective management. It is here that modern technologies step in, offering innovative solutions to augment the monitoring process. Geographic Information Systems (GIS) are at the forefront of this transformation. They enable the collection, analysis, and visualisation of spatial data, offering a multidimensional perspective on real estate assets. Through GIS, real-time insights into asset usage, condition, and their impact on the environment become attainable. Utilising GIS empowers decision-makers and stakeholders, aiding informed choices that facilitate sustainable urban planning and development. Furthermore, integrating remote sensing technology elevates the monitoring of real estate assets in settlements. Satellite imagery and aerial photography provide high-resolution data to detect changes and trends. That is particularly valuable for assessing urban expansion, environmental shifts, and the allocation of lands for agriculture, industry, or residential purposes. Ensuring data accuracy, accessibility, and confidentiality is a paramount aspect of efficient real estate monitoring. Advanced data analytics, machine learning algorithms, and blockchain technology can be leveraged to safeguard data integrity, ensure privacy, and enhance the overall quality of information. In summary, research on monitoring the use of real estate assets in settlements stands as a critical field with wide-reaching implications. The amalgamation of GIS, remote sensing technology, and advanced data analytics is reshaping our approach to comprehending, managing, and planning land usage in urban and rural contexts. By harnessing the capabilities of modern technology and data-driven insights, we pave the way for more sustainable and efficient territorial management. Keywords: spatial provision, monitoring, geoinformation system, land use, cadastral data, modelling.

“A Style Conscious Nation Eagerly Awaits”: Chambers of Commerce and the Making of the American Fashion Industry, 1900-1960

This article considers the role of Chambers of Commerce in promoting and protecting the fashion industries in Miami, Miami Beach, Beverly Hills, and Los Angeles in the first half of the twentieth century. I demonstrate how the Chambers used sportswear to proactively cultivate a national image as a style mecca in order to lure trend-seeking tourists, business owners, and potential residents. Working alongside government officials, tourism boosters, and real estate developers, the Chambers facilitated collaborations between members including group fashion shows and professional organizations that sent representatives around the country to sell city-made collections. Chambers advocated for and promoted shopping districts such as Lincoln Road and Rodeo Drive, which brought in more tourists and more revenue. This article details how Chambers of Commerce facilitated the making, selling, and buying of American sportswear and the role this played in shaping the economic, social, cultural, and geographic landscapes of their beloved cities.