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Three-Dimensional Multitemporal Game Engine Visualizations for Watershed Analysis, Lighting Simulation, and Change Detection in Built Environments
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Assessing Accessibility and Equity in Childcare Facilities Through 2SFCA: Insights from Housing Types in Seongbuk-gu, Seoul
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Exploring Unconventional 3D Geovisualization Methods for Land Suitability Assessment: A Case Study of Jihlava City
Journal Description
ISPRS International Journal of Geo-Information
ISPRS International Journal of Geo-Information
is an international, peer-reviewed, open access journal on geo-information. The journal is owned by the International Society for Photogrammetry and Remote Sensing (ISPRS) and is published monthly online by MDPI.
- Open Access— free for readers, with article processing charges (APC) paid by authors or their institutions.
- High Visibility: indexed within Scopus, SCIE (Web of Science), GeoRef, PubAg, dblp, Astrophysics Data System, Inspec, and other databases.
- Journal Rank: JCR - Q2 (Geography, Physical) / CiteScore - Q1 (Earth and Planetary Sciences (miscellaneous))
- Rapid Publication: manuscripts are peer-reviewed and a first decision is provided to authors approximately 34.2 days after submission; acceptance to publication is undertaken in 2.7 days (median values for papers published in this journal in the first half of 2025).
- Rejection Rate: a rejection rate of 76% in 2024.
- Recognition of Reviewers: reviewers who provide timely, thorough peer-review reports receive vouchers entitling them to a discount on the APC of their next publication in any MDPI journal, in appreciation of the work done.
Impact Factor:
2.8 (2024);
5-Year Impact Factor:
3.3 (2024)
Latest Articles
BFRDNet: A UAV Image Object Detection Method Based on a Backbone Feature Reuse Detection Network
ISPRS Int. J. Geo-Inf. 2025, 14(9), 365; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijgi14090365 (registering DOI) - 21 Sep 2025
Abstract
Unmanned aerial vehicle (UAV) image object detection has become an increasingly important research area in computer vision. However, the variable target shapes and complex environments make it difficult for the model to fully exploit its features. In order to solve this problem, we
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Unmanned aerial vehicle (UAV) image object detection has become an increasingly important research area in computer vision. However, the variable target shapes and complex environments make it difficult for the model to fully exploit its features. In order to solve this problem, we propose a UAV image object detection method based on a backbone feature reuse detection network, named BFRDNet. First, we design a backbone feature reuse pyramid network (BFRPN), which takes the model characteristics as the starting point and more fully utilizes the multi-scale features of backbone network to improve the model’s performance in complex environments. Second, we propose a feature extraction module based on multiple kernels convolution (MKConv), to deeply mine features under different receptive fields, helping the model accurately recognize targets of different sizes and shapes. Finally, we design a detection head preprocessing module (PDetect) to enhance the feature representation fed to the detection head and effectively suppress the interference of background information. In this study, we validate the performance of BFRDNet primarily on the VisDrone dataset. The experimental results demonstrate that BFRDNet achieves a significant improvement in detection performance, with the mAP increasing by 7.5%. To additionally evaluate the model’s generalization capacity, we extend the experiments to the UAVDT and COCO datasets.
Full article
(This article belongs to the Topic State-of-the-Art Object Detection, Tracking, and Recognition Techniques)
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Nav-YOLO: A Lightweight and Efficient Object Detection Model for Real-Time Indoor Navigation on Mobile Platforms
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Cheng Su, Litao Zhu, Wen Dai, Jin Zhou, Jialiang Wang, Yucheng Mao and Jiangbing Sun
ISPRS Int. J. Geo-Inf. 2025, 14(9), 364; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijgi14090364 - 19 Sep 2025
Abstract
Precise object detection is fundamental to robust indoor navigation and localization. However, the practical deployment of deep learning-based detectors on mobile platforms is frequently impeded by their extensive parameter counts, substantial computational overhead, and prolonged inference latency, rendering them impractical for real-time and
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Precise object detection is fundamental to robust indoor navigation and localization. However, the practical deployment of deep learning-based detectors on mobile platforms is frequently impeded by their extensive parameter counts, substantial computational overhead, and prolonged inference latency, rendering them impractical for real-time and GPU-independent applications. To overcome these limitations, this paper presents Nav-YOLO, a highly optimized and lightweight architecture derived from YOLOv8n, specifically engineered for navigational tasks. The model’s efficiency stems from several key improvements: a ShuffleNetv2-based backbone significantly reduces model parameters; a Slim-Neck structure incorporating GSConv and GSbottleneck modules streamlines the feature fusion process; the VoV-GSCSP hierarchical network aggregates features with minimal computational cost; and a compact detection head is designed using Hybrid Convolutional Transformer Architecture Search (HyCTAS). Furthermore, the adoption of Inner-IoU as the bounding box regression loss accelerates the convergence of the training process. The model’s efficacy is demonstrated through a purpose-built Android application. Experimental evaluations on the VOC2007 and VOC2012 datasets reveal that Nav-YOLO substantially outperforms the baseline YOLOv8n, achieving mAP50 improvements of 10.3% and 5.0%, respectively, while maintaining a comparable parameter footprint. Consequently, Nav-YOLO demonstrates a superior balance of accuracy, model compactness, and inference speed, presenting a compelling alternative to existing object detection algorithms for mobile systems.
Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Indoor Mobile Mapping and Location-Based Knowledge Services)
Open AccessArticle
Geospatial Impacts of Land Allotment at the Standing Rock Reservation, USA: Patterns of Gain and Loss
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Stephen L. Egbert and Joshua J. Meisel
ISPRS Int. J. Geo-Inf. 2025, 14(9), 363; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijgi14090363 - 19 Sep 2025
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Allotment—the division of Native American reservations into individually-owned plots of land—has been extensively studied; yet there exists a paucity of reservation-level studies at granular geospatial scales, i.e., at the level of examining the impacts of allotment on individuals, families, and clan or tribal
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Allotment—the division of Native American reservations into individually-owned plots of land—has been extensively studied; yet there exists a paucity of reservation-level studies at granular geospatial scales, i.e., at the level of examining the impacts of allotment on individuals, families, and clan or tribal groups. In previous research, we described a new semi-automated method for creating detailed GIS allotment databases and discussed the policies and processes that that lay behind allotment at the Standing Rock Reservation. In this study, we employed our Standing Rock database to map and explore allotment patterns in detail. We primarily focused on patterns of clustering versus dispersion of allotment parcels for individuals, families, and tribal groups by calculating median distance (and other descriptive statistics) and standard distance in GIS. Throughout, we used mapped representations of allotment patterns as visualization tools, both for confirming hypotheses and raising new questions. As anticipated, we discovered patterns of both gain and loss. On the one hand, as we had found earlier, the people at Standing Rock gained land through their insistence on allotments for married women and for children born after the beginning date of allotment (“later-born children”), land they otherwise would not have received. We also confirmed that married women only received half the land that their husbands received and that the early sale of “surplus” reservation lands deprived a future generation of children of the opportunity to receive their own land. Perhaps most importantly, however, we discovered that the belated timing of allotments to married women and later-born children caused their allotments to be located at some distance from those of their husbands or fathers, creating disjunct and dispersed patterns of family land holdings that would have significantly hampered the creation of viable farming and ranching operations.
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Open AccessArticle
A Multi-Scale Geographically Weighted Regression Approach to Understanding Community-Built Environment Determinants of Cardiovascular Disease: Evidence from Nanning, China
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Shuguang Deng, Shuyan Zhu, Xueying Chen, Jinlong Liang and Rui Zheng
ISPRS Int. J. Geo-Inf. 2025, 14(9), 362; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijgi14090362 - 18 Sep 2025
Abstract
Clarifying how the community-scale built environment shapes the spatial heterogeneity of cardiovascular disease (CVD) prevalence is essential for precision urban health interventions. We integrated CVD prevalence data from the Guangxi Zhuang Autonomous Region Hospital (2020–2022) with 14 built-environment indicators across 77 communities in
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Clarifying how the community-scale built environment shapes the spatial heterogeneity of cardiovascular disease (CVD) prevalence is essential for precision urban health interventions. We integrated CVD prevalence data from the Guangxi Zhuang Autonomous Region Hospital (2020–2022) with 14 built-environment indicators across 77 communities in Xixiangtang District, Nanning, and compared ordinary least squares (OLS), geographically weighted regression (GWR), and multiscale geographically weighted regression (MGWR). MGWR provided the best model fit (adjusted R2 increased by 0.136 and 0.056, respectively; lowest AICc and residual sum of squares) and revealed significant scale-dependent effects. Distance to metro stations, road network density, and the number of transport facilities exhibited pronounced local-scale heterogeneity, while population density, building density, healthy/unhealthy food outlets, facility POI density, and public transport accessibility predominantly exerted global-scale effects. High-risk clusters of CVD were identified in mixed-use, high-density urban communities lacking rapid transit access. The findings highlight the need for place-specific, multi-scale planning measures, such as transit-oriented development and balanced food environments, to reduce the CVD burden and advance precision healthy-city development.
Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue HealthScape: Intersections of Health, Environment, and GIS&T (2nd Edition))
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Spatiotemporal Dynamics and Multi-Scale Equity Evaluation of Urban Rail Accessibility: Evidence from Hangzhou
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Jiasheng Zhu and Xiaoping Rui
ISPRS Int. J. Geo-Inf. 2025, 14(9), 361; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijgi14090361 - 18 Sep 2025
Abstract
In recent years, the rapid expansion of urban rail transit has significantly improved travel efficiency, yet it has also exacerbated spatial inequality in service coverage. Accessibility, as a fundamental metric for evaluating the equity of service distribution, remains limited by three major shortcomings
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In recent years, the rapid expansion of urban rail transit has significantly improved travel efficiency, yet it has also exacerbated spatial inequality in service coverage. Accessibility, as a fundamental metric for evaluating the equity of service distribution, remains limited by three major shortcomings in current assessment methods: the neglect of actual road network characteristics, reliance on a single static scale, and the absence of quantitative mechanisms to assess accessibility equity. These deficiencies hinder a comprehensive understanding of how equity evolves with the spatiotemporal dynamics of rail systems. To address the aforementioned issues, this study proposes an innovative spatiotemporally dynamic and multi-scale analytical framework for evaluating urban rail accessibility and its equity implications. Specifically, we develop a network-based buffer decay model to refine service population estimation by incorporating realistic walking paths, capturing both distance decay and road network constraints. The framework integrates multiple spatial analytical techniques, including the Gini coefficient, Lorenz curve, global and local spatial autocorrelation, center-of-gravity shift, and standard deviation ellipse, to quantitatively assess the equity and evolutionary patterns of accessibility across multiple spatial scales. Taking the central urban area of Hangzhou as a case study, this research investigates the spatiotemporal patterns and equity changes in metro station accessibility in 2019 and 2023. The results indicate that the expansion of the metro network has partially improved overall accessibility equity: the Gini coefficient at the TAZ (Traffic Analysis Zone) scale decreased from 0.56 to 0.425. Nevertheless, significant inequality remains at finer spatial resolutions (grid-level Gini coefficient = 0.404). In terms of spatial pattern, the core area (e.g., Wulin Square) forms a ‘high-high’ accessibility agglomeration area, while the urban fringe area (e.g., northern Yuhang) presents a ‘low-low’ agglomeration, and the problem of local ‘accessibility depression’ still exists. Additionally, the accessibility centroid has consistently shifted northwestward, and the long axis of the standard deviation ellipse has rotated from an east–west to a northwest-southeast orientation, indicating a growing spatial polarization between core and peripheral zones. The findings suggest that improving equity in urban rail accessibility cannot rely solely on expanding network size; rather, it requires coordinated strategies involving network structure optimization, branch line development, multimodal integration, and the construction of efficient transfer systems to promote more balanced and equitable spatial distribution of rail transit resources citywide.
Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Spatial Data Science and Knowledge Discovery)
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Spatiotemporal Evolution and Differential Characteristics of Logistics Resilience in Provinces Along the Belt and Road in China
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Yi Liang, Zhaoxu Yuan, Yan Fang and Han Liu
ISPRS Int. J. Geo-Inf. 2025, 14(9), 360; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijgi14090360 - 18 Sep 2025
Abstract
Based on provincial panel data from 2014 to 2023, this study employs the entropy weight method to construct an indicator system for measuring the logistical resilience of regions along China’s Belt and Road Initiative (BRI). The Dagum Gini coefficient is used to analyze
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Based on provincial panel data from 2014 to 2023, this study employs the entropy weight method to construct an indicator system for measuring the logistical resilience of regions along China’s Belt and Road Initiative (BRI). The Dagum Gini coefficient is used to analyze regional disparities in resilience levels. Furthermore, when geographical factors are integrated, spatial autocorrelation analysis via Moran’s I index is conducted on the measurement results to explain the spatial heterogeneity among variables. The results reveal several key findings: (1) During the implementation of the BRI, the logistical resilience of regions along the route has improved to varying degrees, indicating enhanced ability of the logistics industry to withstand external risks and recover from disruptions. (2) The level of regional logistical resilience exhibits a spatial pattern similar to that of logistics industry development, characterized by a gradual decline from the southeastern coastal areas toward the northwestern inland regions. (3) Logistical resilience within the study areas has increasingly significant spatial spillover effects; that is, regions with developed logistics industries positively impact surrounding areas, driving improvements in their resilience levels. The results of this study suggest a growing trend of spatial convergence in logistical resilience across these regions. Based on these results, corresponding policy recommendations are proposed to provide insights for enhancing regional logistical resilience.
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(This article belongs to the Special Issue Spatial Data Science and Knowledge Discovery)
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Vessel Traffic Density Prediction: A Federated Learning Approach
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Amin Khodamoradi, Paulo Alves Figueiras, André Grilo, Luis Lourenço, Bruno Rêga, Carlos Agostinho, Ruben Costa and Ricardo Jardim-Gonçalves
ISPRS Int. J. Geo-Inf. 2025, 14(9), 359; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijgi14090359 - 18 Sep 2025
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Maritime safety, environmental protection, and efficient traffic management increasingly rely on data-driven technologies. However, leveraging Automatic Identification System (AIS) data for predictive modelling faces two major challenges: the massive volume of data generated in real-time and growing privacy concerns associated with proprietary vessel
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Maritime safety, environmental protection, and efficient traffic management increasingly rely on data-driven technologies. However, leveraging Automatic Identification System (AIS) data for predictive modelling faces two major challenges: the massive volume of data generated in real-time and growing privacy concerns associated with proprietary vessel information. This paper proposes a novel, privacy-preserving framework for vessel traffic density (VTD) prediction that addresses both challenges. The approach combines the European Maritime Observation and Data Network’s (EMODNet) grid-based VTD calculation method with Convolutional Neural Networks (CNN) to model spatiotemporal traffic patterns and employs Federated Learning to collaboratively build a global predictive model without the need for explicit sharing of proprietary AIS data. Three geographically diverse AIS datasets were harmonized, processed, and used to train local CNN models on hourly VTD matrices. These models were then aggregated via a Federated Learning framework under a lifelong learning scenario. Evaluation using Sparse Mean Squared Error shows that the federated global model achieves promising accuracy in sparse data scenarios and maintains performance parity when compared with local CNN-based models, all while preserving data privacy and minimizing hardware performance needs and data communication overheads. The results highlight the approach’s effectiveness and scalability for real-world maritime applications in traffic forecasting, safety, and operational planning.
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Open AccessArticle
Cross-Domain Travel Mode Detection for Electric Micro-Mobility Using Semi-Supervised Learning
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Eldar Lev-Ran, Mirosława Łukawska, Valentino Servizi and Sagi Dalyot
ISPRS Int. J. Geo-Inf. 2025, 14(9), 358; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijgi14090358 - 17 Sep 2025
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Electric micro-mobility modes, such as e-scooters and e-bikes, are increasingly used in urban areas, posing challenges for accurate travel mode detection in mobility studies. Traditional supervised learning approaches require large labeled datasets, which are costly and time-consuming to generate. To address this, we
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Electric micro-mobility modes, such as e-scooters and e-bikes, are increasingly used in urban areas, posing challenges for accurate travel mode detection in mobility studies. Traditional supervised learning approaches require large labeled datasets, which are costly and time-consuming to generate. To address this, we propose xSeCA, a semi-supervised convolutional autoencoder that leverages both labeled and unlabeled trajectory data to detect electric micro-mobility travel modes. The model architecture integrates representation learning and classification in a compact and efficient manner, enabling accurate detection even with limited annotated samples. We evaluate xSeCA on multi-city datasets, including Copenhagen, Tel Aviv, Beijing and San Francisco, and benchmark it against supervised baselines such as XGBoost. Results demonstrate that xSeCA achieves high classification accuracy while exhibiting strong generalization capabilities across different urban contexts. In addition to validating model performance, we examine key travel properties relevant to micro-mobility behavior. This research highlights the benefits of semi-supervised learning for scalable and transferable travel mode detection, offering practical implications for urban planning and smart mobility systems.
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Open AccessArticle
Evaluating UAV Flight Parameters for High-Accuracy in Road Accident Scene Documentation: A Planimetric Assessment Under Simulated Roadway Conditions
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Thanakorn Phojaem, Adisorn Dangbut, Panuwat Wisutwattanasak, Thananya Janhuaton, Thanapong Champahom, Vatanavongs Ratanavaraha and Sajjakaj Jomnonkwao
ISPRS Int. J. Geo-Inf. 2025, 14(9), 357; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijgi14090357 - 17 Sep 2025
Abstract
Unmanned Aerial Vehicles (UAVs) have become increasingly valuable for accident scene reconstruction and forensic surveying due to their flexibility and ability to capture high-resolution imagery. This study investigates the impact of flight altitude, camera angle, and image overlap on the spatial accuracy of
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Unmanned Aerial Vehicles (UAVs) have become increasingly valuable for accident scene reconstruction and forensic surveying due to their flexibility and ability to capture high-resolution imagery. This study investigates the impact of flight altitude, camera angle, and image overlap on the spatial accuracy of 3D models generated from UAV imagery. A total of 27 flight configurations were conducted using a DJI Phantom 4 Pro V2, combining three altitudes (30 m, 45 m, 60 m), three camera angles (90°, 75°, 60°), and three overlap levels (60%, 70%, 80%). The resulting 3D models were assessed by comparing measured linear distances between ground control points with known reference distances. The Root Mean Square Error (RMSE) was used to quantify model accuracy. The results indicated that lower flight altitudes, nadir or moderately oblique camera angles, and higher image overlaps consistently yielded the most accurate reconstructions. A Wilcoxon rank-sum test confirmed that the differences in accuracy across parameter settings were statistically significant. These findings highlight the critical role of flight configuration in achieving centimeter-level accuracy, as evidenced by RMSE values ranging from 1.7 to 7.6 cm, and provide practical recommendations for optimizing UAV missions in forensic and engineering applications.
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(This article belongs to the Special Issue Spatial Data Science and Knowledge Discovery)
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Assessment of Land Degradation in the State of Maranhão to Support Sustainable Development Goal 15.3.1 in the Agricultural Frontier of MATOPIBA, Brazil
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Antonia Mara Nascimento Gomes, Andreza Maciel de Sousa, Marcus Willame Lopes Carvalho, Washington da Silva Sousa, Marcos Vinícius da Silva, Gustavo André de Araújo Santos, Aldair de Souza Medeiros, Jhon Lennon Bezerra da Silva, José Francisco de Oliveira-Júnior and Nítalo André Farias Machado
ISPRS Int. J. Geo-Inf. 2025, 14(9), 356; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijgi14090356 - 17 Sep 2025
Abstract
Globally, land degradation represents both an environmental and socioeconomic challenge, necessitating continuous monitoring due to its impacts on ecosystem services. Given the substantial changes in land use and land cover in Maranhão, this study aimed to evaluate land degradation across the state between
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Globally, land degradation represents both an environmental and socioeconomic challenge, necessitating continuous monitoring due to its impacts on ecosystem services. Given the substantial changes in land use and land cover in Maranhão, this study aimed to evaluate land degradation across the state between 2001 and 2023, based on Sustainable Development Goal (SDG) indicator 15.3.1. To this end, we integrated data on land cover (LC), soil organic carbon (SOC), and land productivity (LP) using the Trends.Earth algorithm (v.2.1.16), based on datasets from the MapBiomas platform (collections 9 and Beta) and MODIS (MOD13Q1 product), along with the application of the RESTREND model for climate adjustment. The results indicated that 39.56% of Maranhão’s territory showed signs of degradation, particularly in the central and northwestern (NW) regions, as well as parts of the southern (S) region. Stable areas accounted for 26.39%, while 32.08% were classified as improving, with notable trends in the southern and southeastern (SE) regions, suggesting vegetation recovery and more sustainable land management practices. The integrated analysis of LC, SOC stocks, and land productivity sub-indicators revealed that environmental degradation in Maranhão is strongly driven by the conversion of natural ecosystems into agricultural and livestock areas, especially in the central-eastern and NW regions. In conclusion, the findings highlight a misalignment with the SDG 15.3.1 target but also point to zones of stability and recovery, indicating potential for mitigation, restoration, and the implementation of sustainable land management strategies.
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(This article belongs to the Special Issue Advances in Remote Sensing and GIS for Natural Hazards Monitoring and Management)
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Analysis of Land-Use Spatial Equilibrium in the Yangtze River Economic Belt Under the Context of High-Quality Development: Quantity Balance and Efficiency Coordination
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Aihui Ma, Wanmin Zhao and Yijia Gao
ISPRS Int. J. Geo-Inf. 2025, 14(9), 355; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijgi14090355 - 17 Sep 2025
Abstract
As the spatial carrier, the high-quality development of land complements the high-quality development of the economy and society. Imbalanced land use severely restricts regional high-quality development. This study uses panel data from 110 cities at or above the prefecture level in the Yangtze
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As the spatial carrier, the high-quality development of land complements the high-quality development of the economy and society. Imbalanced land use severely restricts regional high-quality development. This study uses panel data from 110 cities at or above the prefecture level in the Yangtze River Economic Belt (YREB) from 2013 to 2022. Based on a conjugate perspective, it comprehensively considers quantitative balance and efficiency coordination to calculate the spatial equilibrium degree of land use. Kernel density estimation and Moran’s I index are employed to reveal the spatiotemporal differentiation characteristics. This study divides land-use spatial equilibrium into different types and proposes differentiated development paths. The findings are as follows: ① In terms of temporal evolution, the spatial equilibrium degree of land use in the YREB exhibits a nonlinear progression, overall trending towards stable convergence. ② In terms of spatial evolution, provincial capital cities and municipalities directly under the central government drive the development of surrounding cities, forming three major urban clusters in the upper, middle, and lower reaches. ③ The spatial clustering characteristics of land-use equilibrium in the YREB are significant, but the degree of agglomeration is continuously weakening. ④ The optimization paths for different types of land-use spatial equilibrium show significant differences, requiring differentiated governance. These findings provide a scientific foundation for optimizing the national spatial pattern of land use, advancing regional balanced development and achieving high-quality development.
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(This article belongs to the Topic Sustainable Development and Coordinated Governance of Urban and Rural Areas Under the Guidance of Ecological Wisdom—2nd Edition)
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Methodology for Determining Potential Locations of Illegal Graffiti in Urban Spaces Using GRA-Type Grey Systems
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Małgorzata Gerus-Gościewska and Dariusz Gościewski
ISPRS Int. J. Geo-Inf. 2025, 14(9), 354; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijgi14090354 - 16 Sep 2025
Abstract
This paper defines the term “graffiti” and outlines the origins of this concept. The terminological arrangement allowed for the subject of this research, i.e., illegal graffiti, to be situated in reality, i.e., an urban space. It was assumed that the existence of the
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This paper defines the term “graffiti” and outlines the origins of this concept. The terminological arrangement allowed for the subject of this research, i.e., illegal graffiti, to be situated in reality, i.e., an urban space. It was assumed that the existence of the tag was associated with a disturbance of spatial order and had an impact on safety in a space. This, in turn, is related to whether the principles of sustainable development in the social dimension are applied. This paper makes reference to theories of security in a space (the “broken windows” theory and the strategy of Crime Prevention Through Environmental Design, CPTED) and shows the problem of illegal graffiti against the background of these theories. A new research aspect of the occurrence of illegal graffiti (scribbles and tags) within urban space is the features that determine its emergence in a spatial dimension. The aim of the analyses in this paper is to obtain information on which geospatial features are generators of illegal graffiti. The research field was limited to the space of one city—Olsztyn—with the assumption that the proposed research methodology would be useful for the spaces of other cities. The research methodology consists of several steps: firstly, we determined a list of features in the surroundings of illegal graffiti using direct interviews, and secondly, we analyzed the frequency of occurrence of these features in the researched locations in space. The next step was to standardize the obtained results using the quotient transformation method with respect to a reference point, where the reference point is the sum of all observations. After that, we assigned ranks for standardized results. The last stage involved an analysis using the GRA type of grey systems to obtain a sequence of strengths of relationships. This sequence allowed us to determine which of the features adopted for analysis have the greatest impact on the creation of illegal graffiti in a space. As indicated by the strength of the relationship, in the analyses conducted, geospatial features such as poor sidewalk condition and neglected greenery have the greatest impact on the occurrence of illegal graffiti. Other features that influence the occurrence of illegal graffiti in a given space include a lack of visibility from neighboring windows and the proximity of a two-way street. It can be assumed that these features are generators of illegal graffiti in the studied area and space. The poor condition of the facade has the least impact on the possibility of illegal graffiti occurring in a given space.
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Open AccessArticle
Exploring Historical Changes to Architectural Heritage Through Reality-Based 3D Modeling and Virtual Reality: A Case Study
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Domenico Simone Roggio, Sina Shokrollahi, Anna Forte and Gabriele Bitelli
ISPRS Int. J. Geo-Inf. 2025, 14(9), 353; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijgi14090353 - 16 Sep 2025
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Urban and territorial development increasingly threatens the preservation of architectural heritage, often leading to degradation or loss. Many historic architectural works, once integral to community identity, now face the impacts of time and neglect. Addressing these challenges requires innovative solutions, and digital technologies
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Urban and territorial development increasingly threatens the preservation of architectural heritage, often leading to degradation or loss. Many historic architectural works, once integral to community identity, now face the impacts of time and neglect. Addressing these challenges requires innovative solutions, and digital technologies offer significant potential for the conservation and enhancement of cultural heritage. This study employs reality-based 3D modeling techniques to generate accurate digital reconstructions of the Church of Santa Croce in Ravenna (Italy), used here as a case study to demonstrate a workflow for phasing analysis and interactive visualization of architectural transformations. The objective is not to produce a philological reconstruction, but to propose a methodological approach for digitally documenting and visualizing, with geometric rigor, the different constructive phases of historical buildings that have undergone structural changes. Using a spatial–temporal navigation approach, the research explores the various historical phases of the site within an interactive 3D virtual environment. The resulting platform facilitates both scholarly investigation and public engagement by providing immersive visualization and enhanced understanding of the monument’s transformation over time. Through this case study, the project underscores the critical role of contemporary digital tools in cultural heritage conservation and explores novel methods for communicating and disseminating historical knowledge.
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Open AccessArticle
Advanced Division of Search Areas for Missing Persons in Non-Urban Environments
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Kateřina Růžičková, Jan Růžička, Kateřina Skřejpková, Helena Chaloupková and Ivona Svobodová
ISPRS Int. J. Geo-Inf. 2025, 14(9), 352; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijgi14090352 - 15 Sep 2025
Abstract
Dividing large areas into smaller sub-areas is a common practice across many disciplines, with specific requirements determined by their intended use. This study focuses on preparing search sectors for locating missing persons in non-urban environments. In such settings, search teams must be assigned
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Dividing large areas into smaller sub-areas is a common practice across many disciplines, with specific requirements determined by their intended use. This study focuses on preparing search sectors for locating missing persons in non-urban environments. In such settings, search teams must be assigned sufficiently large yet homogeneous sectors that allow visual orientation even without GNSS. While general search strategies differ in their approach to area coverage, rural and wilderness environments pose unique challenges that demand a systematic method to ensure both navigability and efficiency. To address this, we propose a land-use-based approach that incorporates the artificial extension of linear geo-features to subdivide large polygons. The methodology was first applied to regions of the Czech Republic in 2020 and refined with advanced settings in 2023. Introducing the step for subdividing extensive homogeneous polygons significantly improved outcomes, allowing the method to generate search sectors of the desired size for 86% of the territory in 2020 and 91% in 2023. The main limitation lies in the reliance on cartographic data, which may omit fine details critical for field navigation.
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(This article belongs to the Topic Applications of Algorithms in Risk Assessment and Evaluation)
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Automated Identification and Spatial Pattern Analysis of Urban Slow-Moving Traffic Bottlenecks Using Street View Imagery and Deep Learning
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Zixuan Guo, Hong Xu and Qiushuang Lin
ISPRS Int. J. Geo-Inf. 2025, 14(9), 351; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijgi14090351 - 15 Sep 2025
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With rapid urbanization and increasing emphasis on sustainable mobility, slow-moving traffic systems, including pedestrian and cycling infrastructure, have become critical to urban transportation and quality of life. Conventional assessment methods are labor-intensive, time-consuming, and limited in coverage. Leveraging advances in deep learning and
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With rapid urbanization and increasing emphasis on sustainable mobility, slow-moving traffic systems, including pedestrian and cycling infrastructure, have become critical to urban transportation and quality of life. Conventional assessment methods are labor-intensive, time-consuming, and limited in coverage. Leveraging advances in deep learning and computer vision, this study develops a framework for bottleneck detection using street-level imagery and the You Only Look Once version 5 (YOLOv5) model. An evaluation system comprising 15 indicators across continuity, safety, and comfort is established. In a case study of Wuhan’s Third Ring Road, the YOLOv5 model achieved 98.9% mean Average Precision (mAP)@0.5, while spatial hotspot analysis (p < 0.05) identified severe demand–infrastructure mismatches in southeastern Wuhan, contrasted with fewer problems in the northern region due to stronger management. To ensure adaptability, a dynamic optimization mechanism integrating temporal imagery updates, transfer learning, and collaborative training is proposed. The findings demonstrate the effectiveness of street-level remote sensing for large-scale urban diagnostics, extend the application of deep learning in mobility research, and provide practical insights for data-driven planning and governance of slow-moving traffic systems in high-density cities.
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Open AccessArticle
Lightweight Deep Learning Approaches for Lithological Mapping in Vegetated Terrains of the Vălioara Valley, Romania
by
Valentin Árvai and Gáspár Albert
ISPRS Int. J. Geo-Inf. 2025, 14(9), 350; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijgi14090350 - 15 Sep 2025
Abstract
Mapping lithology in areas with dense vegetation remains a major challenge for remote sensing, as plant cover tends to obscure the spectral signatures of underlying rock formations. This study tackles that issue by comparing the performance of three custom-built lightweight deep learning models
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Mapping lithology in areas with dense vegetation remains a major challenge for remote sensing, as plant cover tends to obscure the spectral signatures of underlying rock formations. This study tackles that issue by comparing the performance of three custom-built lightweight deep learning models in the mixed-vegetation terrain of the surroundings of the Vălioara Valley, Romania. We used time-series data from Sentinel-2 and elevation data from the SRTM, with preprocessing techniques such as the Principal Component Analysis (PCA) and the Forced Invariance Method (FIM) to reduce the spectral interference caused by vegetation. Predictions were made with a Multi-Layer Perceptron (MLP), a Convolutional Neural Network (CNN), and a Vision Transformer (ViT). In addition to measuring the classification accuracy, we assessed how the different models handled vegetation coverage. We also explored how vegetation density (NDVI) correlated with the classification results. Tests show that the Vision Transformer outperforms the other models by 6%, offering a stronger resilience to vegetation interference, while FIM doubled the model confidence in specific (locally rare) lithologies and decorrelated vegetation in multiple measures. These findings highlight both the potential of ViTs for remote sensing in complex environments and the importance of applying vegetation suppression techniques like FIM to improve geological interpretation from satellite data.
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(This article belongs to the Special Issue Advances in Remote Sensing and GIS for Natural Hazards Monitoring and Management)
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Open AccessArticle
Distribution, Dynamics and Drivers of Asian Active Fire Occurrences
by
Xu Gao, Wenzhong Shi and Min Zhang
ISPRS Int. J. Geo-Inf. 2025, 14(9), 349; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijgi14090349 - 12 Sep 2025
Abstract
As the world’s most populous and geographically diverse continent, active fire occurrence in Asia exhibits pronounced spatiotemporal heterogeneity, driven by climactic and anthropogenic factors. However, systematic analyses of Asian fire occurrence characteristics are still scarce, the quantitative and spatial relationship between fire dynamics
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As the world’s most populous and geographically diverse continent, active fire occurrence in Asia exhibits pronounced spatiotemporal heterogeneity, driven by climactic and anthropogenic factors. However, systematic analyses of Asian fire occurrence characteristics are still scarce, the quantitative and spatial relationship between fire dynamics and drivers remain poorly understood. Here, utilizing active fire and land cover products alongside climate and human footprint datasets, we explored the spatiotemporal distribution and dynamics of active fire counts (FC) over 20 years (2003–2022) in Asia, quantifying the effects of climate and human management. Results analyzed over 10 million active fires, with cropland fires predominating (25.6%) and Southeast Asia identified as the hotspot. FC seasonal dynamics were governed by temperature and precipitation, while spring was the primary burning season. A continental inter-annual FC decline (mean slope: −8716 yr−1) was identified, primarily attributed to forest fire reduction. Subsequently, we further clarified the drivers of FC dynamics. Time series decomposition attributed short-term FC fluctuations to extreme climate events (e.g., 2015 El Niño), while long-term trends reflected cumulative human interventions (e.g., cropland management). The trend analysis revealed that woody vegetation fires in the Indochina Peninsula shifted to herbaceous fires, Asian cropland FC primarily increased but were restricted in eastern China and Thailand by strict policies. Spatially, hydrometeorological factors dominated 58.1% of FC variations but exhibited opposite effects between arid and humid regions, followed by human factor, where human activities shifted from fire promotion to suppression through land-use transitions. These driving mechanism insights establish a new framework for adaptive fire management amid escalating environmental change.
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(This article belongs to the Special Issue Advances in Remote Sensing and GIS for Natural Hazards Monitoring and Management)
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Open AccessArticle
Study on Spatial Equity of Greening in Historical and Cultural Cities Based on Multi-Source Spatial Data
by
Huiqi Sun, Xuemin Shi, Bichao Hou and Huijun Yang
ISPRS Int. J. Geo-Inf. 2025, 14(9), 348; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijgi14090348 - 12 Sep 2025
Abstract
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Urban green space, a vital part of urban ecosystems, offers inhabitants essential ecosystem services, and ensuring its fair distribution is essential to preserving their ecological well-being. This study uses Kaifeng City in Henan Province as the research object and aims to address the
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Urban green space, a vital part of urban ecosystems, offers inhabitants essential ecosystem services, and ensuring its fair distribution is essential to preserving their ecological well-being. This study uses Kaifeng City in Henan Province as the research object and aims to address the unique conflict between the preservation of well-known historical and cultural cities and the development of greening. It does this by integrating streetscape big data (2925 sampling points) and point of interest (POI) density data (57,266 records) and using the DeepLab-ResNeSt269 semantic segmentation model in conjunction with spatial statistical techniques (Moran’s Index, Locational Entropy and Theil Index Decomposition) to quantitatively analyze the spatial equity of the green view index (GVI) in Kaifeng City. The results of the study show that (1) The Theil Index reveals that the primary contradiction in Kaifeng City’s distribution pattern—low GVI in the center and high in the periphery—is the micro-street scale difference, suggesting that the spatial imbalance of the GVI is primarily reflected at the micro level rather than the macro urban area difference. (2) The distribution of the GVI in Kaifeng City exhibits a significant spatial polarization phenomenon, with the proportion of low-value area (35.40%) being significantly higher than that of high-value area (25.10%) and the spatial clustering being evident (Moran’s Index 0.3824). Additionally, the ancient city area and the new city area exhibit distinct spatial organization patterns. (3) POI density and GVI had a substantial negative correlation (r = −0.085), suggesting a complicated process of interaction between green space and urban functions. The study reveals that the fairness of green visibility in historical and cultural cities presents the characteristics of differentiated distribution in different spatial scales, which provides a scientific basis for the optimization of greening spatial layouts in historical and cultural cities while preserving the traditional landscape.
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Open AccessArticle
Multi-Size Facility Allocation Under Competition: A Model with Competitive Decay and Reinforcement Learning-Enhanced Genetic Algorithm
by
Zixuan Zhao, Shaohua Wang, Cheng Su and Haojian Liang
ISPRS Int. J. Geo-Inf. 2025, 14(9), 347; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijgi14090347 - 9 Sep 2025
Abstract
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In modern urban planning, the problem of bank location requires not only considering geographical factors but also integrating competitive elements to optimize resource allocation and enhance market competitiveness. This study addresses the multi-size bank location problem by incorporating competitive factors into the optimization
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In modern urban planning, the problem of bank location requires not only considering geographical factors but also integrating competitive elements to optimize resource allocation and enhance market competitiveness. This study addresses the multi-size bank location problem by incorporating competitive factors into the optimization process through a novel reinforcement learning-enhanced genetic algorithm (RL-GA) framework. Building upon an attraction-based model with competitive decay functions, we propose an innovative hybrid optimization approach that combines evolutionary computation with intelligent decision-making capabilities. The RL-GA framework employs Q-learning principles to adaptively select optimal genetic operators based on real-time population states and search progress, enabling meta-learning where the algorithm learns how to optimize rather than simply optimizing. Unlike traditional genetic algorithms with fixed operator probabilities, our approach dynamically adjusts its search strategy through an -greedy exploration mechanism and multi-objective reward functions. Experimental results demonstrate that the RL-GA achieves improvements in early-stage convergence speed while maintaining solution quality comparable to traditional methods. The algorithm exhibits enhanced convergence characteristics in the initial optimization phases and demonstrates consistent performance across multiple optimization trials. These findings provide evidence for the potential of intelligence-guided evolutionary computation in facility location optimization, offering moderate computational efficiency gains and adaptive strategic guidance for banking facility deployment in competitive environments.
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Open AccessArticle
Geological Disaster Risk Assessment Under Extreme Precipitation Conditions in the Ili River Basin
by
Xinxu Li, Jinghui Liu, Zhiyong Zhang, Xushan Yuan, Yanmin Li and Zixuan Wang
ISPRS Int. J. Geo-Inf. 2025, 14(9), 346; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijgi14090346 - 7 Sep 2025
Abstract
Geological Disasters (Geo-disasters) are common in the Ili River Basin, with extreme precipitation being a major triggering factor. As the frequency and intensity of these events increase, the associated risks also rise. This study proposes a hazard assessment framework that integrates extreme precipitation
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Geological Disasters (Geo-disasters) are common in the Ili River Basin, with extreme precipitation being a major triggering factor. As the frequency and intensity of these events increase, the associated risks also rise. This study proposes a hazard assessment framework that integrates extreme precipitation recurrence periods with Geo-disaster susceptibility. Furthermore, based on a comprehensive risk assessment model encompassing hazard, exposure, vulnerability, and disaster mitigation capacity, the study evaluates Geo-disaster risk in the Ili River Basin under extreme precipitation conditions. Hazard levels are assessed by integrating geo-disaster susceptibility with recurrence periods of extreme precipitation, resulting in hazard and risk maps under various conditions. The susceptibility indicator system is refined using K-means clustering, the certainty factor (CF) model, and Pearson correlation to reduce redundancy. Key findings include: (a) Geo-disasters are influenced by a combination of factors. High-susceptibility areas are typically found in moderately sloped terrain (8.5–17.64°) at elevations between 1412 m and 2234 m, especially on east- and southeast-facing slopes. Lithology, soil, hydrology, fault proximity, and the topographic wetness index (TWI) are the primary influences, while high NDVI values reduce susceptibility. (b) The hazard pattern varies with the recurrence period of extreme precipitation. Shorter periods lead to broader high-hazard zones, while longer periods concentrate hazards, particularly in Yining City. (c) Exposure is higher in the east, vulnerability aligns with transportation networks, and disaster mitigation capacity is stronger in the north, particularly in Yining. (d) Low-risk areas are found in valleys and flat terrains, while medium to high-risk zones concentrate in southeastern Zhaosu, Tekes, and Gongliu counties. Some economically active regions require special attention due to their high exposure and vulnerability.
Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Advances in Remote Sensing and GIS for Natural Hazards Monitoring and Management)
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