City Residents Research Articles

Attitudes and Acceptance of the Palestinian Population Towards COVID-19 Health Precautions and Vaccinations: A Cross-Sectional Study.

COVID-19 is a new pandemic and the best protection against this infection is by vaccination. This study aims to assess the commitment to COVID-19 health precautions and willingness to receive vaccination among the Palestinian population. An online-based survey was carried out for an observational cross-sectional study. A total of 1367 participants were recruited conveniently between February and June 2021. To carry out comparisons, Mann-Whitney or Kruskal-Wallis was used for numerical variables and chi-square or Fisher's exact for categorical. Multiple logistic regression was used to evaluate health precautions and multinomial logistic regression was used to observe willingness for vaccination. The commitment to the majority of health precautions was predicted by perceiving COVID-19 threat, educational level, and city residency (p < 0.05). Social distancing and sterilizer usage were associated with city residency (p < 0.001). Students, males, and unemployed participants were less committed to health precautions (p < 0.05). Vaccination willingness was less predicted by the perception of an ineffective vaccine (p < 0.001), perceiving no threat of COVID-19 (p < 0.05) or perception of threat for old/or chronic diseases (p < 0.05), employed participants (p < 0.05), without chronic diseases (p < 0.05), and not committed to wearing a mask (p < 0.001). COVID-19 threat perception, high education level, and city residency predict more commitment to health precautions, in contrast to male students and unemployed participants. On the other hand, having no chronic diseases, perception of ineffective vaccines, unperceived COVID-19 threat, and unwillingness to wear masks predicted less vaccination acceptance. Therefore, it is critical to increase awareness about the COVID-19 threat, health precautions, and vaccination efficacy. This study is cross-sectional. Future works concerning changes in Attitudes toward COVID-19 health precautions and vaccination should be encouraged, including vaccinated participants.

Seasonal urban surface thermal environment analysis based on local climate zones: A case study of Chongqing

The rapid urbanization has exacerbated the heat island effect, impacting city development and residents' health. This study, using Local Climate Zones (LCZ) as a framework, connects spatial structure, resource allocation, and thermal environment research. It investigates the spatiotemporal heterogeneity of the surface thermal environment and its driving forces, crucial for mitigating heat issues. Utilizing various data sources like remote sensing images, road network data, land use data, high-resolution street view data, and building data, the research employs the random forest algorithm to map LCZs in Chongqing's central urban area. Through mathematical statistics, equi-sector analysis, ring-layer analysis, and Pearson correlation analysis, the study examines seasonal variations in spatiotemporal heterogeneity and driving mechanisms of the surface thermal environment. Key findings include: (1) The central urban area of Chongqing is dominated by open-building and vegetation-type LCZs, with building-type LCZs showing a “clustered” distribution, while natural-type LCZs are mainly found in the suburbs with ribbon and block distribution in the urban area. (2) The surface thermal environment in the study area correlates strongly with surface cover and exhibits significant high temperature effects in summer. (3) The surface thermal conditions vary significantly among different LCZs and exhibit seasonal patterns, natural-type LCZs generally have lower temperatures compared to building-type LCZs.(4) The surface thermal characteristics within the same category of LCZs in different locations display distinct differences and seasonal variations. (5) The internal temperatures of LCZs are significantly linked to four surface attributes, each displaying seasonal fluctuations. Greenness, height, and wetness are inversely related to the surface thermal conditions, while brightness shows a positive correlation. Both seasonal variations and LCZ types differences have a noticeable influence on their respective driving mechanisms to some degree.

Exploring friends with benefits: a review of research and insights from the Polish context

Introduction and Objective :"Friends with benefits" relationships (FWBR) are becoming increasingly common. Defined as friendships involving sexual activity without romantic commitment, FWBRs blur the boundaries between friendship and romance. The aim of this article is to gather the most up-to-date information on "friends with benefits" relationships.Review Methods: A review of studies available on the PubMed platform (https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/) was conducted, including articles with free full-text access that used the keywords: “friends with benefits relationship”, “friends with benefits,” "FWB," and "FWBR."Brief Description of the State of Knowledge: Many individuals involved in friends with benefits relationships establish their own rules, and one surprising trend is the frequent observance of sexual exclusivity. Research on the prevalence of FWBRs has focused largely on students in the USA, but there is limited data on FWBRs in Poland, where they appear to be rising in popularity, influenced by dating sites and population migrations. Studies indicate that men, residents of larger cities, and less religious individuals are more likely to participate in FWBRs.Summary: FWBRs offer a unique dynamic where individuals can avoid the emotional commitments and negative traits of traditional romantic relationships. However, these relationships also present challenges, such as differing expectations between the partners and the societal stigma that may be associated with them.

An empirical study on smart city construction to enhance residents' participation in physical activity.

Smart city construction, as a new model of urban development, has become a crucial means to encourage residents' participation in physical exercise. However, there is still a lack of systematic exploration regarding the mechanisms by which smart city construction specifically affects residents' engagement in physical activity. This paper analyzes the impact of smart city construction on residents' participation in physical activity using a Difference-in-Differences (DID) model, based on data from the 2010 to 2020 China Family Panel Studies (CFPS). Data processing involved removing missing values, addressing outliers, and introducing control variables at the individual, household, and city levels. The study found that smart city construction significantly promotes residents' participation in physical activity. Smart city policies have a notable positive effect on this participation, and there are significant differences in the responses of various resident groups to physical activity engagement. The results of the mediation analysis indicate that the built environment, information access channels, and enjoyment of consumption play significant mediating roles between smart city policies and residents' participation in physical activity. Smart city construction influences residents' participation in physical activity both directly or indirectly by enhancing urban infrastructure, expanding access to information, and fostering enjoyable consumption experiences. In the future, smart city initiatives should prioritize the equitable distribution of resources, strengthen infrastructure development in rural and western regions, and further enhance the national fitness level.

TRANSPORTE AQUAVIÁRIO: AVALIAÇÃO DE UMA NOVA ALTERNATIVA DE MOBILIDADE INTERURBANA PALMAS-TO/PORTO NACIONAL-TO

Waterway transportation between Palmas and Porto Nacional on the Tocantins River is a promising alternative to foster regional development. This study aims to assess the feasibility of a waterway transportation system connecting these two cities, highlighting benefits such as reduced dependence on road transportation, logistical efficiency, economic development, and tourism potential. The research employed a quantitative approach through questionnaires administered to residents of both cities to capture perceptions of current mobility and acceptance of the new mode. Results indicate a strong public acceptance of waterway transportation (78.4%) and a perception that the accessibility, mobility, and infrastructure of the current road transport system are limited, underscoring the positive potential impact of implementing a waterway system.

Temporal Trends of Early COVID-19 Infections in New York City Transit Workers and Residents: March 01, 2020-May 02, 2020.

The continuity of public transportation was necessary during the COVID-19 pandemic so that essential workers could report for duty. Therefore, it is important to consider COVID-19's impact on transit workers themselves. We described COVID-19 incidence rates over time in New York City (NYC) transit workers and the NYC general population during March-May, 2020. NYC transit COVID-19 cases were abstracted from occupational injury and illness logs, and health department data was used to ascertain NYC resident cases. COVID-19 rates among transit workers peaked during the week of March 22-28 (429.8 cases/100,000 workers). The peak in transit workers occurred 1-2weeks before the general public's peak (March 29-April 4: 368.8 cases/100,000 people; April 5-11: 357.8 cases/100,000 people). These data suggest that NYC transit workers may have been impacted by COVID-19 earlier than the general public. Thus, improving early detection and response of respiratory disease outbreaks may be vital to protecting transit workers.

Anthroponyms and Ethnonyms as Markers of the City Identity

Purpose. The article studies peculiarities of anthroponyms and ethnonyms in the city landscape. The purpose of the work is to analyze these components from the point of view of integral approach. The empirical material includes official and unofficial names of Moscow and Chelyabinsk received by continuous sampling from the city Internet sites, literary work illustrations, dictionaries.Results. Attributive phrases with anthroponyms and ethnonyms dominate in the analyzed minor place names. Anthroponyms and ethnonyms concretize the place, the attitude to city objects. Negative or ironical connotations are typical of unofficial minor place names with anthroponyms, while ethnonyms in unofficial minor place names are of-ten neutral. The names of famous politicians, mayors, governors often become the source of transonymization which reflects critical attitude of the city residents to their activity. Abbreviation and wrong usage of the names of admin-istration representatives help create negative connotations of the minor place name.Conclusion. The authors argue that transonymization of anthroponyms in the city linguistic landscape results in the lack of understanding of such minor place names by non-residents, but such rethought nominations of the city objects and phenomena are clear for the residents even when the inefficient representative of the city or region administration leaves the office. On the other hand, mainly the old and middle generations of the city residents recognize and use minor place names with ethnonyms.

Digital divide and digital engagement in small business owners: an examination of survey data

ABSTRACT This paper examines the digital divide among Small Business Owners (SBO). Most of the existing literature has focused on the digital divide among individuals and communities with little attention given to SBOs. This paper uses the Resources and Appropriation (RA) theory to explore the digital divide in SBOs. Data is analyzed from a survey of residents in the seventh-largest city in the US. The analysis indicates that many characteristics of the digital divide persist when comparing SBOs. However, when controlling for factors such as digital engagement, business characteristics, and expected revenue, demographic variables like race, ethnicity, education, gender, age, and household income did not significantly affect the level of digital engagement or expected revenue of SBOs. The findings support RA theory by demonstrating that access and the reasons for using the Internet play a crucial role among SBOs. The results emphasize the need to create opportunities for minority-owned small businesses to thrive in the digital age.

Investigating spatial and temporal characteristics and elements influencing running among residents of Nanchang city in green open areas

Understanding the exercise behaviors of urban residents in green open spaces is crucial for optimizing future urban spatial planning and improving residents’ quality of life. This study provides an in-depth analysis of residents’ running behaviors across 87 green open spaces in Nanchang City. Running data collected from the exercise platform Keep, coupled with urban geographic data and field research, reveals the spatial distribution and temporal variations of running activities, including running flow, distance, time, and pace. A set of indicator systems, such as total area, landscape form index, surrounding residential land area, and road conditions, is used to analyze its relationship with the environmental elements of green open spaces. The research results show that the running flow, running distance, and running time in green open spaces in Nanchang City are significantly influenced by different objective elements, while running pace shows little correlation with these environmental elements. Specifically, the study highlights the significant impact of elements such as total area and road length, as well as the number of nearby bus stops and population density, on residents’ running behaviors in Nanchang City’s green open spaces.

Deciphering the new governance experiment of dilapidated neighborhoods in China: A case of Xi'ma New Village, Wuhan

Approximately 100 million residents in Chinese cities inhabit former work-unit neighborhoods and municipal housing areas. Since the 1990s, the state has retreated from the direct provision of neighborhood services. However, as the alternative approach, commercialized property management has largely failed in these neighborhoods, leading to their gradual decline into “dilapidated neighborhoods.” Consequently, the poor living conditions and inadequate services severely constrained the well-being of these residents. Recently, new governance experiments have emerged in dilapidated neighborhoods across Chinese cities, warranting significant attention and exploration. Drawing on fieldwork and interviews conducted from 2019 to 2023 in Xi'ma New Village, Wuhan City, this research investigates the evolving governance shaped by affordable property management. Our findings indicate that, first, when sponsoring dilapidated neighbourhoods for affordable property management, the state's rationale is to address the crisis and alleviate social tensions; second, state leadership is reinforced through a multi-scalar governance network surrounding property management; third, in this case, the process of how the state achieved the above goals through deploying and mobilizing market and society exemplifies “state entrepreneurialism” in Chinese cities. Thus, the study offers nuanced insights, particularly at the neighborhood level, enabling readers to understand the evolving governance modalities in Chinese cities, especially in the context of (re)increasing state control and leadership.

Microlevel analysis of how itinerant immigrant entrepreneurs underwrite local economic development in an African city

ABSTRACT Itinerant merchants are actively involved in various economic activities within and around African cities, albeit on a small scale. However, there remains a gap in understanding their contribution to host cities’ local economic development (LED). This research aims to fill this gap by examining how itinerant immigrant retailers support LED in host cities, using Wa in Ghana. Recognising their role is essential for informing location-specific development plans to boost local economies. Employing a qualitative research approach, we interviewed 52 participants, including itinerant immigrants, city residents, and officials from relevant state agencies. Thematic analysis using NVivo version 11 was employed to analyse the responses. Itinerant merchants play a crucial role in local economies by creating employment opportunities, providing income sources for residents, ensuring convenient access to goods and services, and contributing to market diversification. We discuss how these insights could inform LED policies and planning in sub-Saharan Africa.

Public Participation in Rapid Response Services for the Sustainability of Jakarta Smart City

Public participation plays an important role in the development of rapid response services to support the sustainability of Jakarta Smart City. This study aims to explore and analyse the level of public participation in utilising and developing these services, and their impact on urban sustainability. The research method used is a qualitative case study through in-depth interviews and document analysis. The results of the study indicate that the level of public participation in rapid response services in Jakarta Smart City varies greatly. Factors such as accessibility, trust, and awareness are the main determinants of the level of public participation. Citizens who actively participate tend to feel greater benefits from these services, while those who are inactive tend to experience gaps in services. Public participation also has a positive effect on service efficiency and the quality of life of city residents. However, this study also found several obstacles that hinder public participation. Low awareness of the importance of the role of individuals in developing smart cities, limited accessibility, and low digital literacy are the main challenges. To increase sustainable public participation, efforts are needed that involve education, training, and strengthening of information technology infrastructure. In conclusion, public participation has a crucial role in the sustainability of Jakarta Smart City through rapid response services. Effective management of public participation can improve service efficiency, strengthen community engagement, and support sustainable urban development. Therefore, continuous efforts are needed to improve and manage public participation for long-term success. With education, training, and improved technological infrastructure, broader and more equitable participation can be realised, supporting the growth of inclusive and sustainable smart cities in the future.

Attitude of Romanian students and their families concerning waste management

Abstract Waste recovery, recycling included, is an important step in waste management, preceding final disposal. In 2018, according to Eurostat, the recycling rate of municipal waste was 47% in the European Union and only 11.1% in Romania. Thus governmental institutions have implemented new measures in order to reduce environmental pollution by ineffective waste management. In 2022, 535 students aged 22-24.5 years, males and females, studying in Craiova (one of the six largest academic cities of Romania), were asked to answer an 18-item questionnaire regarding their and their families’ attitude towards waste recycling. Most of the students (60.7%) were residents in the university city, while the others - in smaller cities or in villages of the region. Only 38.3% of the subjects (N = 205) declare their families recycle waste; the most common excuse for no-recycling (37.8%) is the lack of recycle bins in the house proximity. Only 20 families (3.7%), all of them living in Craiova, take the fried oil to collecting points in supermarkets; most of the others eliminate it in the sewerage system, especially those from outside the city (p &amp;lt; 0.01). Seventy-five students (14%) are not able to mention any recent measure taken by the government in order to reduce plastics environmental pollution; the others discuss about the increased number of recycle bins around the city (53.2%), recycling of single-use plastics (34.5%) or use of biodegradable bags (25.2%). No-recycling (42%), using daily his/her own car (18.7%, p &amp;lt; 0.01 males vs. females), using too much plastics (11.2%) are the most frequent self-reported students’ disregards for the environment. Most of the subjects consider environmental health of essential importance (88.7%) and would like to participate in environment protection actions (92.5%). Romanian students seem to have a positive attitude and like to be involved in the environment protection, without a significant influence regarding the gender and the residence place. Key messages • Education and information are essential tools to make people ecologically aware. • Recycling is one of the best ways to have a positive impact on both natural and community environment.

Vaccine conspiracy beliefs are the main determinant of adult vaccine hesitancy

Abstract Background Many factors influence the level of vaccine hesitancy. The COVID-19 pandemic demonstrated that conspiracy beliefs are an important element of overwhelming misinformation. The main aim of the study was to assess the relationship between vaccine hesitancy (VH) and vaccine conspiracy beliefs (VCB) in Polish society. Methods The analysis was conducted using data from an online survey of 2189 Internet users conducted in November 2021. Uni- (ULRM) and multivariable linear regression (MLRM) models were developed for vaccine hesitancy as a dependent variable. The independent variables included VCB score (VCBS), health (HL) and e-health literacy (eHL), Internet (IU) and social media use (SMU), political views (PV), and sociodemographic variables. Results The VCBS, eHL, HL, age, income, vocational and marital status, place of residence, PV, IU, and SMU were significant predictors of VH in ULRMs. A significant relationship with VH was maintained in MLRM for all independent variables enlisted earlier, apart from age, income, and vocational status. Respondents with higher VCBS were more likely to have higher VH (B, 95%CI: 0.38, 0.37-0.40). Those with undetermined HL had higher VH than persons with sufficient HL (B, 95%CI: 0.13, 0.06-0.20). A higher level of eHL predicted a lower level of VH (B, 95%CI: -0.01, -0.012 - -0.03). Lower IU and higher SMU were associated with higher VH (B, 95%CI: 0.16, 0.02-0.30, and 0.10, 0.03-0.17, respectively). Supporters of far right-wing party showed higher HV than supporters of the governmental party (B, 95%CI: 0.16, 0.07-0.27). Finally, singles showed higher HV than married (B, 95%CI: 0.07, 0.01-0.13), and residents of small cities had higher HV than residents of rural areas (B, 95%CI: 0.08, 0.004-0.15). Conclusions The vaccine conspiracy beliefs play a major role in the development of VH. The interventions aimed at the change of antivaccination attitudes should address the problem of widespread conspiracy beliefs. Key messages • Conspiracy beliefs are an important determinant of attitudes toward vaccination. • The development of adequate digital health literacy may be a protective factor against vaccine hesitancy.

Exploring Spectacle Usage Patterns: A Thematic Analysis of Refractive Disorder Patients in Medan, Indonesia

Objectives: This study explores the behavioral patterns of spectacle users with refractive errors in Medan City, Indonesia, and identifies the key factors influencing the decision-making process in choosing and using glasses, contributing to SDG 3 (Good Health and Well-being) by addressing vision health. Theoretical Framework: The research is guided by the Precede-Proceed model and the Theory of Planned Behavior, which provide a framework for understanding health-related behaviors, including spectacle usage and its impact on overall well-being. Method: A qualitative methodology was employed, involving in-depth interviews with 30 Medan City residents diagnosed with refractive errors. This was supplemented by focus group discussions and consultations with eyewear experts. Data were analyzed using a descriptive-analytical approach. Results and Discussion: Key themes influencing spectacle usage behavior were identified, including needs, comfort, fashion, quality, perception, economy, and knowledge. Among these, needs, comfort, and quality emerged as the most significant factors influencing users’ choices of glasses. The findings suggest that people with refractive errors should prioritize glasses that meet health standards to ensure comfort and improve visual impairments, aligning with the goals of SDG 3 to promote health and well-being. Research Implications: Health practitioners, particularly optometrists, play a critical role in educating the community about the importance of using high-quality eyewear and addressing common misconceptions related to spectacle use, thus contributing to SDG 3 (Good Health and Well-being). Originality/Value: This study provides novel insights into the behavioral patterns of spectacle users in a specific cultural context, offering valuable information for health professionals and policymakers to improve vision care services in Medan City in support of SDG 3.

Encouraging Residents to Save Energy by Using Smart Transportation: Incorporating the Propensity to Save Energy into the UTAUT Model

The rapid urbanization and technological advancements of the recent decades have increased the need for efficient and sustainable transportation solutions. This study examines the acceptance of smart transportation systems (STSs) among residents in Polish cities and explores the impact of these systems on energy-saving behaviors. Using the extended Unified Theory of Acceptance and Use of Technology (UTAUT2) model, which includes the propensity to save energy, this research seeks to understand the determinants of STS adoption. The primary research was conducted using Computer-Assisted Web Interviewing (CAWI). The sample was controlled for gender and place of residence. A sample of 471 individuals meeting the criteria of living in a city with over 200,000 residents and using smart transportation solutions in Poland were selected from the research panel. SmartPLS 4 software was used to analyze the collected data. The findings reveal that the propensity to save energy significantly influences perceived usefulness, ease of use, social influence, and hedonic motivation toward STSs. Perceived usefulness and ease of use were found to be strong predictors of the intention to use STSs, while perceived costs had a negative impact on it. This study also identified the moderating role of personal innovativeness in mitigating cost concerns. These insights underscore the importance of emphasizing energy conservation benefits and user-friendly features in promoting the use of STSs. This study concludes that aligning technological innovations with user motivations for energy conservation can enhance the adoption of sustainable transportation solutions, contributing to smarter and more sustainable urban environments.

The knowledge of medical staff on the impact of noise on neonatal intensive care units patients and its application in practice.

Noise is an undesirable environmental factor whose control and reduction should be standard in every Neonatal Intensive Care Unit. Its impact can have negative effects on both the mental and physical health of the body. Newborns, especially premature infants, are particularly sensitive to the negative effects of noise. the negative impact of noise can be reduced through appropriate behaviour of the medical staff. Aim. The aim of the study is to analyse the knowledge of medical staff on the impact of noise on newborns staying in Neonatal Intensive Care Units and to evaluate its use in practice. Methods. A total of 104 respondents working in neonatal wards participated in the study. The survey was conducted online using social media. The study employed the diagnostic survey method with a self-designed questionnaire. The first part of the ques- tionnaire concerned the aspects of knowledge on the impact of noise on hospitalised new- borns; the second part addressed the socio-demographic issues of the medical staff. Results. Training on noise exposure for newborns is not common in the workplace. There are no recommendations regulating noise standards and control equipment. The surveyed individuals do not have in-depth knowledge about acceptable noise levels in newborn rooms. Only one in three employees was able to provide the correct answers in this regard. Older employees with longer experience and residents of large cities scored higher in knowledge than younger individuals. Those with a higher level of knowledge and satisfaction with their work and earnings show the greatest care in reducing noise intensity in the ward. Conclusions. In neonatal pathology wards and (NICUs), noise standards and recom- mendations are more common than in physiology wards. Employees caring for new- borns need training on the sources and impact of noise on babies. it is necessary to limit the noise generated by the staff, such as loud conversations, slamming furniture, placing objects on incubators, or moving equipment.

Study of the state of humoral immunity to COVID-19 in Arkhangelsk residents

The COVID-19 pandemic caused by SARS-CoV-2 has affected healthcare, society and the economy in all countries, including Russia. Several vaccines have been created as the method for COVID-19 prevention. One of the most widespread vaccines in Russia, which has received international recognition, is the Gam-COVID-Vac (Sputnik V) vaccine and its variant Sputnik Light, which represents its first component. This vaccine, like similar vaccines in many countries, was used during the pandemic. The purpose of this work is to study the humoral immunity status of Arkhangelsk city residents and the effect of vaccination on them. Adult residents of Arkhangelsk [N = 281] were enrolled in the randomized study. Samples from vaccinated people and the control group were collected for the study in October 2022.The median from the time of last vaccination/booster to sample collection was 10 months. The samples were tested for the level of IgG to the receptor-binding domain of the SARS-CoV-2 S protein. The work assessed the humoral immunity status among residents of Arkhangelsk. It was shown that in October 2022 high IgG values were recorded among the people in the studied groups, most likely caused by contact with the SARS-CoV-2 virus. The humoral immunity status of unvaccinated residents, for those who have had COVID-19 and those who have not, is described; a significant increase in the level of IgG among those vaccinated compared to unvaccinated people is shown, despite the fact that the average time after vaccination was more than 10 months. A comparative analysis of IgG levels among different age groups was carried out. The study found no difference in post-vaccination antibody levels among people over 65 years old compared to younger age groups. Also there were no statistically significant differences in antibody levels among unvaccinated people over 65 in respect to younger age groups.

Healthy city development: Indonesian government plans to build a new capital city

The urgency of urban health in Indonesia is very worrying because most of Indonesia’s population now lives in urban areas with minimal supporting infrastructure. That prompted this study to analyze the government’s response to the healthy city development plan in the new capital city. This study uses a qualitative approach that focuses on thematic analysis. It helps check official government documents related to healthy city development plans. The relevant documents that were found were in the form of regulations. This regulation is Law of the Republic of Indonesia Number 3 of 2022 concerning the National Capital (Ibu Kota Negara, IKN). This official document was coded by maximizing the analysis tool, namely NVivo 12 Plus. This study succeeded in mapping several bare references in the healthy city development plan for the new capital city by the Indonesian government. Some of these primary references include the healthy city model (World Health Organization, WHO), the healthy city strategy (Cardiff), and (Vancouver). All of these primary references aim to improve the quality of life of residents in cities through city development that focuses on health. However, there are several challenges that the Indonesian government may face in the future, including problems with air pollution, environmentally friendly transportation, and the provision of green public spaces, health facilities, universal health services, and other infrastructure. This all requires adequate capacity and budget plans, including ensuring transparency in budget management. This study also encourages collaboration between the government, the private sector, and civil society to support the development of healthy cities that run well and sustainably.

Urbanization, loneliness and mental health model - A cross-sectional network analysis with a representative sample

With increasing urbanization, more people are exposed to mental health risk factors stemming from the urban social or physical environment. However, research on the relationship between urbanization and mental health is lacking. This cross-sectional study aimed to explore the relationships of the physical environment (spatial cohesion and urban environment) and social factors (neighborhood cohesion) with mental health (stress, anxiety and depression symptoms) and physical health and the mediating role of loneliness based on the proposed theoretical model. The study was conducted in Metropolis GZM (Silesia, Poland) in a representative sample of 3296 residents (48% women). The measurements used were the PSS-10, GAD-7, PHQ-9, R-UCLA3 and neighborhood cohesion scale. ANOVA results showed that city residents had better mental health indices than residents of villages and small towns. The network approach revealed that urbanization was one of the most influential nodes and played the role of a bridge between all other nodes. The model was confirmed and showed that the relationships between the physical environment and mental health were consecutively mediated by neighborhood cohesion and loneliness. Spatial cohesion related to factors of the physical environment and physical health, while physical health was directly connected to sociodemographic factors and weakly to stress. Anxiety was the strongest risk factor. Mental health can be improved by social and architectural factors, such as strengthening neighborhood cohesion and improving neglected buildings.