University of Tehran Journal of Natural Environment 2008-7764 78 2 2025 09 21 Recovery of soil biological properties after skidding operations along an altitudinal gradient in pure Oriental Beech (Fagus orientalis Lipsky) forests stands Recovery of soil biological properties after skidding operations along an altitudinal gradient in pure Oriental Beech (Fagus orientalis Lipsky) forests stands 169 184 103413 10.22059/jne.2025.392879.2794 FA Tohid Ghassemi Department of Forestry and Forest Economics, Faculty of Natural Resources, University College of Agriculture and Natural Resources, University of Tehran, Karaj, Iran. 0009-0005-4884-7504 Meghdad Jourgholami Department of Forestry and Forest Economics, Faculty of Natural Resources, University College of Agriculture and Natural Resources, University of Tehran, Karaj, Iran. 0000-0003-3676-278X Mohammad Jafari Department of Reclamation of Arid and Mountainous Region, Faculty of Natural Resources, University College of Agriculture and Natural Resources, University of Tehran, Karaj, Iran. 0000-0002-3484-7723 Hadi Sohrabi Department of Forestry and Forest Economics, Faculty of Natural Resources, University College of Agriculture and Natural Resources, University of Tehran, Karaj, Iran. 0000-0002-8499-8212 Journal Article 2025 04 04 Short-term and long-term disturbances following forest harvesting, such as soil disturbances, damage to soil and trees, reduce the resilience of forest ecosystems to climate change. This study evaluated the process of soil biological indicators (including earthworm density and dry biomass, soil microbial respiration, and fine root biomass) in compacted soils across five elevational gradients (700, 900, 1100, 1300, and 1500 meters asl) and three traffic intensities (low, moderate, and high) seven years after logging operations in skid trails, compared to undisturbed (control) areas in the Kheyrud and Watershed No. 46, pure beech forest in northern Iran at a soil depth of 0–10 cm. Results from two-way ANOVA revealed that the influence of elevational gradient and traffic intensity on soil biological indicators in pure beech forests indicated a sharp decline in biological indicators with increasing elevation. Elevation increases from 700 to 1500 meters led to a 56–73% reduction in earthworm density (n m-2) and biomass (mg m-2), microbial respiration, and fine root biomass (the highest decline was in fine root biomass (72.2%) and the lowest in microbial respiration (56.8%)). Pearson correlation analysis demonstrated strong, significant negative correlations (P<0.05) between all biological indicators and the interaction effect of altitudinal gradient and traffic intensity. The elevational gradient emerged as a key determinant of soil health in beech forests, with elevations above 1300 meters displaying the highest vulnerability due to harsh environmental conditions and sensitivity to machine traffic. The impacts of machinery traffic persisted even after seven years, and recovery at higher elevations is projected to require > 7 years. These findings underscore the necessity for comprehensive forest management approaches that explicitly account for altitudinal gradients, soil characteristics, and plant species. Short-term and long-term disturbances following forest harvesting, such as soil disturbances, damage to soil and trees, reduce the resilience of forest ecosystems to climate change. This study evaluated the process of soil biological indicators (including earthworm density and dry biomass, soil microbial respiration, and fine root biomass) in compacted soils across five elevational gradients (700, 900, 1100, 1300, and 1500 meters asl) and three traffic intensities (low, moderate, and high) seven years after logging operations in skid trails, compared to undisturbed (control) areas in the Kheyrud and Watershed No. 46, pure beech forest in northern Iran at a soil depth of 0–10 cm. Results from two-way ANOVA revealed that the influence of elevational gradient and traffic intensity on soil biological indicators in pure beech forests indicated a sharp decline in biological indicators with increasing elevation. Elevation increases from 700 to 1500 meters led to a 56–73% reduction in earthworm density (n m-2) and biomass (mg m-2), microbial respiration, and fine root biomass (the highest decline was in fine root biomass (72.2%) and the lowest in microbial respiration (56.8%)). Pearson correlation analysis demonstrated strong, significant negative correlations (P<0.05) between all biological indicators and the interaction effect of altitudinal gradient and traffic intensity. The elevational gradient emerged as a key determinant of soil health in beech forests, with elevations above 1300 meters displaying the highest vulnerability due to harsh environmental conditions and sensitivity to machine traffic. The impacts of machinery traffic persisted even after seven years, and recovery at higher elevations is projected to require > 7 years. These findings underscore the necessity for comprehensive forest management approaches that explicitly account for altitudinal gradients, soil characteristics, and plant species.

https://jne.ut.ac.ir/article_103413_1a50fb75fc8a36fa33e5cb3c43832d92.pdf

University of Tehran Journal of Natural Environment 2008-7764 78 2 2025 09 21 Zoning of damage caused by fungal diseases and semi-parasitic plants in the Jahan Nama Protected Area and Golestan National Park Zoning of damage caused by fungal diseases and semi-parasitic plants in the Jahan Nama Protected Area and Golestan National Park 185 200 104021 10.22059/jne.2025.399266.2827 FA Mohamadreza Kavosi Department of Forestry and Forest Ecology, Faculty of Forest Sciences, University of Agricultural Sciences and Natural Resources, Gorgan, Iran. 0009-0000-6717-410X Jahangir Mohamadi Department of Forestry and Forest Ecology, Faculty of Forest Sciences, University of Agricultural Sciences and Natural Resources, Gorgan, Iran. 0000-0003-4836-3073 Vahideh Payamnoor Department of Forestry and Forest Ecology, Faculty of Forest Sciences, University of Agricultural Sciences and Natural Resources, Gorgan, Iran. 0000-0002-8029-5931 Journal Article 2025 07 27 In Golestan National Park and the Jahan Nama Protected Area, changes in forest habitats and the decline of trees due to diseases and semi-parasitic plants are among the main challenges. This research was conducted with the aim of assessing threats and proposing management solutions over an area of 121,510 hectares. Using the center quarter point method, 655 sample plots were implemented at 1000-meter intervals, and data including the number of diseased and healthy trees, the type and location of damage, the percentage of dieback, and the damage rating were recorded. The results showed that 17 species of pathogenic fungi and two semi-parasitic plants, juniper dwarf mistletoe (Arceuthobium oxycedri) and European mistletoe (Viscum album), are active in the region. Disease risk was zoned into five ratings (from healthy to dead). In Golestan National Park (90,193 hectares), 20.34% of the trees were diseased, 58.3% were completely dead, and 37.35% of the area was infested with European mistletoe. In the Jahan Nama region (31,317 hectares), 50.34% of the area was infested with semi-parasitic plants and 1% of the trees were dead. Overlap of damage from fungal diseases and semi-parasitic plants was observed in the habitats of hornbeam, beech, Persian ironwood, and hawthorn, leading to the creation of gaps and fragmentation in the habitats. If these factors are not controlled, widespread ecosystem degradation and large-scale tree mortality would not be unexpected. This study emphasizes the necessity of developing integrated management policies to prioritize conservation actions. In Golestan National Park and the Jahan Nama Protected Area, changes in forest habitats and the decline of trees due to diseases and semi-parasitic plants are among the main challenges. This research was conducted with the aim of assessing threats and proposing management solutions over an area of 121,510 hectares. Using the center quarter point method, 655 sample plots were implemented at 1000-meter intervals, and data including the number of diseased and healthy trees, the type and location of damage, the percentage of dieback, and the damage rating were recorded. The results showed that 17 species of pathogenic fungi and two semi-parasitic plants, juniper dwarf mistletoe (Arceuthobium oxycedri) and European mistletoe (Viscum album), are active in the region. Disease risk was zoned into five ratings (from healthy to dead). In Golestan National Park (90,193 hectares), 20.34% of the trees were diseased, 58.3% were completely dead, and 37.35% of the area was infested with European mistletoe. In the Jahan Nama region (31,317 hectares), 50.34% of the area was infested with semi-parasitic plants and 1% of the trees were dead. Overlap of damage from fungal diseases and semi-parasitic plants was observed in the habitats of hornbeam, beech, Persian ironwood, and hawthorn, leading to the creation of gaps and fragmentation in the habitats. If these factors are not controlled, widespread ecosystem degradation and large-scale tree mortality would not be unexpected. This study emphasizes the necessity of developing integrated management policies to prioritize conservation actions.

https://jne.ut.ac.ir/article_104021_80cde360f679a9b32f70a35062c902d8.pdf

University of Tehran Journal of Natural Environment 2008-7764 78 2 2025 09 21 Sensitivity analysis of weighting in multi-criteria habitat suitability assessment for the Goitered Gazelle: A case study of Shirahmad wildlife refuge Sensitivity analysis of weighting in multi-criteria habitat suitability assessment for the Goitered Gazelle: A case study of Shirahmad wildlife refuge 201 219 103903 10.22059/jne.2025.393479.2797 FA Amirmohammad Habibi Department of Environment, Faculty of Natural Resources and Marine Sciences, Tarbiat Modares University, Noor, Mazandaran, Iran. 0009-0005-5727-4023 Bonyad Ahmadi Department of Environment, Faculty of Natural Resources and Marine Sciences, Tarbiat Modares University, Noor, Mazandaran, Iran. 0000-0002-4847-9036 Mehdi Gholamalifard Department of Environment, Faculty of Natural Resources and Marine Sciences, Tarbiat Modares University, Noor, Mazandaran, Iran. 0000-0001-9172-9507 Seyed Mahmoud Ghasempouri Department of Environment, Faculty of Natural Resources and Marine Sciences, Tarbiat Modares University, Noor, Mazandaran, Iran. 0000-0003-1129-4406 Ali Ghoraei Department of Environment, Faculty of Natural Resources and Environment, University of Birjand, Birjand, Iran. 0009-0004-3954-5400 Journal Article 2025 04 15 The Shirahmad Wildlife Refuge, located in Razavi Khorasan Province, northeastern Iran, represents one of the key habitats of the goitered gazelle (Gazella subgutturosa). This study aimed to evaluate habitat suitability and identify the main drivers of the species’ distribution using a multi-criteria evaluation (MCE) approach. The applied criteria included ranger stations, water points, streams, rivers, core zones, forests, grasslands, roads, farmlands, dirt roads, salt marshes, and slope. The findings indicated that areas near water resources (water points: weight= 0.1753; rivers: weight= 0.1432) and ranger stations (weight= 0.1975) exhibited higher suitability. The model’s performance, assessed using the Receiver Operating Characteristic (ROC) curve, achieved an accuracy of 0.82, confirming the robustness of the final habitat suitability map. Furthermore, results showed that habitat suitability increased with higher suitability classes. Sensitivity analysis revealed that distance from rivers and slope were the most influential criteria. Based on the Mann-Kendall and Theil-Sen tests, suitability trends showed an increasing pattern, with northern and western parts of the area being more suitable than southern and eastern regions. Overall, water resources, vegetation cover, and security were identified as the key determinants of gazelle distribution. Accordingly, establishing artificial water points in central and western zones and positioning ranger stations near Yahyaabad and Jalin villages are recommended. Additionally, changes in the weighting of criteria influenced habitat suitability maps, highlighting the importance of accurate parameterization. These findings can contribute to improving habitat assessments and designing effective strategies for the conservation of goitered gazelle populations in Shirahmad. The Shirahmad Wildlife Refuge, located in Razavi Khorasan Province, northeastern Iran, represents one of the key habitats of the goitered gazelle (Gazella subgutturosa). This study aimed to evaluate habitat suitability and identify the main drivers of the species’ distribution using a multi-criteria evaluation (MCE) approach. The applied criteria included ranger stations, water points, streams, rivers, core zones, forests, grasslands, roads, farmlands, dirt roads, salt marshes, and slope. The findings indicated that areas near water resources (water points: weight= 0.1753; rivers: weight= 0.1432) and ranger stations (weight= 0.1975) exhibited higher suitability. The model’s performance, assessed using the Receiver Operating Characteristic (ROC) curve, achieved an accuracy of 0.82, confirming the robustness of the final habitat suitability map. Furthermore, results showed that habitat suitability increased with higher suitability classes. Sensitivity analysis revealed that distance from rivers and slope were the most influential criteria. Based on the Mann-Kendall and Theil-Sen tests, suitability trends showed an increasing pattern, with northern and western parts of the area being more suitable than southern and eastern regions. Overall, water resources, vegetation cover, and security were identified as the key determinants of gazelle distribution. Accordingly, establishing artificial water points in central and western zones and positioning ranger stations near Yahyaabad and Jalin villages are recommended. Additionally, changes in the weighting of criteria influenced habitat suitability maps, highlighting the importance of accurate parameterization. These findings can contribute to improving habitat assessments and designing effective strategies for the conservation of goitered gazelle populations in Shirahmad.

https://jne.ut.ac.ir/article_103903_654292ad24f79ffcc2791c205cd85e7f.pdf

University of Tehran Journal of Natural Environment 2008-7764 78 2 2025 09 21 Investigating the effect of natural resource rent and trade on the added value of the agricultural sector in selected OPEC member countries Investigating the effect of natural resource rent and trade on the added value of the agricultural sector in selected OPEC member countries 221 235 104019 10.22059/jne.2025.395155.2805 FA Mahsa Taslimi Department of Agricultural Economics, Faculty of Agricultural Engineering, Sari University of Agricultural Sciences and Natural Resources, Sari, Iran. 0000-0003-0379-2536 Foad Eshghi Department of Agricultural Economics, Faculty of Agricultural Engineering, Sari University of Agricultural Sciences and Natural Resources, Sari, Iran. 0000-0002-5763-1917 Seyedeh Fatemeh Razaghi PahnehKolaei Department of Agricultural Economics, Faculty of Agricultural Engineering, Sari University of Agricultural Sciences and Natural Resources, Sari, Iran. 0009-0001-1095-0638 Hamid Amirnejad Department of Agricultural Economics, Faculty of Agricultural Engineering, Sari University of Agricultural Sciences and Natural Resources, Sari, Iran. 0000-0002-4307-1146 Journal Article 2025 06 03 The resource curse is one of these explanations related to the mainstream of international trade economics, which states that windfall revenues from natural resources negatively impact other sectors. This is done by the collapse of the manufacturing sector due to the increase in the value of the domestic currency and the diversion of production resources from other sectors of the economy to the natural resource sector in search of natural resources. This study examines the relationship between natural resource rents in selected OPEC member countries and the agricultural sectors value-added. For this purpose, consolidated data from selected OPEC member countries for the period 2000–2020 and the fixed effects method were used. The estimation was performed once for selected OPEC member countries and once using a dummy variable for Iran. The results obtained from the estimation of the model with fixed effects for selected OPEC member countries showed that the variables of carbon dioxide emissions and natural resource rents have a significant and negative effect on the growth of value-added in the agricultural sector. Meanwhile, the estimation of the results of the dummy variable fixed effects model for Iran showed that the dummy variables of carbon dioxide emissions and natural resource rents do not affect the value-added in the agricultural sector. According to the obtained results, it can be said that the natural resource curse hypothesis is confirmed in selected OPEC member countries; however, in Iran, due to oil and financial sanctions in the past years, this variable is not significant, and this hypothesis is not confirmed in Iran. Accordingly, policymakers should consider the difference in the impact of the agricultural sector's value-added from natural resource rents and carbon dioxide emissions in the policies implemented. The resource curse is one of these explanations related to the mainstream of international trade economics, which states that windfall revenues from natural resources negatively impact other sectors. This is done by the collapse of the manufacturing sector due to the increase in the value of the domestic currency and the diversion of production resources from other sectors of the economy to the natural resource sector in search of natural resources. This study examines the relationship between natural resource rents in selected OPEC member countries and the agricultural sectors value-added. For this purpose, consolidated data from selected OPEC member countries for the period 2000–2020 and the fixed effects method were used. The estimation was performed once for selected OPEC member countries and once using a dummy variable for Iran. The results obtained from the estimation of the model with fixed effects for selected OPEC member countries showed that the variables of carbon dioxide emissions and natural resource rents have a significant and negative effect on the growth of value-added in the agricultural sector. Meanwhile, the estimation of the results of the dummy variable fixed effects model for Iran showed that the dummy variables of carbon dioxide emissions and natural resource rents do not affect the value-added in the agricultural sector. According to the obtained results, it can be said that the natural resource curse hypothesis is confirmed in selected OPEC member countries; however, in Iran, due to oil and financial sanctions in the past years, this variable is not significant, and this hypothesis is not confirmed in Iran. Accordingly, policymakers should consider the difference in the impact of the agricultural sector's value-added from natural resource rents and carbon dioxide emissions in the policies implemented.

https://jne.ut.ac.ir/article_104019_3312ec139c1cc252588c2c233ba2312a.pdf

University of Tehran Journal of Natural Environment 2008-7764 78 2 2025 09 21 Assessment of species distribution patterns and abundance of plants and Noctuid moths (Lepidoptera: Noctuidae) in the Ark and Gorong protected area, south Khorasan province, Iran Assessment of species distribution patterns and abundance of plants and Noctuid moths (Lepidoptera: Noctuidae) in the Ark and Gorong protected area, south Khorasan province, Iran 237 252 104020 10.22059/jne.2025.395737.2808 FA Moslem Rostampour Department of Rangeland and Watershed Management and Research Group of Drought and Climate Change, Faculty of Natural Resources and Environment, University of Birjand, Birjand, Iran. 0000-0001-9052-1958 Mohammad Mahdi Rabieh Department of Plant Protection, Faculty of Agriculture, University of Birjand, Birjand, Iran. 0000-0002-8341-6751 Journal Article 2025 06 07 Nowedays, the study of plant–insect interactions is considered a critical indicator of biodiversity in ecological research and biodiversity conservation planning. The present study aimed to investigate the distribution patterns, species abundance, and co-occurrence of plant species and Noctuidae moths in the Ark and Gorong Protected Area in South Khorasan Province, Iran.Sampling of moths and plants was carried out at ten sites. Three representative sub-sites were selected in each site, and 30 quadrats is taken per site. Species density was estimated in each quadrat. Moth specimens were caught using light traps. The attracted moths were collected, counted, and identified in the laboratory. To assess spatial distribution, the mean/variance ratio, Morisita’s index, and standardized Morisita’s index were calculated for each species. The species abundance distributions (SADs) of both plants and moths were fitted to theoretical models. Model fit significance was established with maximum likelihood estimation, and the best model was decided on by Akaike Information Criterion (AIC). The findings indicated that most of the plant (73.33 %) and moth species (86.67 %) were clumped in their pattern of distribution. Additionally, abundance of species in both groups occurred best according to the log-normal model, typically typical of mature and complex communities. Analysis detected no significant correlation between the plant community matrix and the moth community matrix (r=0.05, P≥0.05). In general, the findings of this study in Ark and Gorong Protected Area showed that environmental complexity and habitat heterogeneity play an important role in determining the distribution pattern of plant species and Noctuid moths. Nowedays, the study of plant–insect interactions is considered a critical indicator of biodiversity in ecological research and biodiversity conservation planning. The present study aimed to investigate the distribution patterns, species abundance, and co-occurrence of plant species and Noctuidae moths in the Ark and Gorong Protected Area in South Khorasan Province, Iran.Sampling of moths and plants was carried out at ten sites. Three representative sub-sites were selected in each site, and 30 quadrats is taken per site. Species density was estimated in each quadrat. Moth specimens were caught using light traps. The attracted moths were collected, counted, and identified in the laboratory. To assess spatial distribution, the mean/variance ratio, Morisita’s index, and standardized Morisita’s index were calculated for each species. The species abundance distributions (SADs) of both plants and moths were fitted to theoretical models. Model fit significance was established with maximum likelihood estimation, and the best model was decided on by Akaike Information Criterion (AIC). The findings indicated that most of the plant (73.33 %) and moth species (86.67 %) were clumped in their pattern of distribution. Additionally, abundance of species in both groups occurred best according to the log-normal model, typically typical of mature and complex communities. Analysis detected no significant correlation between the plant community matrix and the moth community matrix (r=0.05, P≥0.05). In general, the findings of this study in Ark and Gorong Protected Area showed that environmental complexity and habitat heterogeneity play an important role in determining the distribution pattern of plant species and Noctuid moths.

https://jne.ut.ac.ir/article_104020_778a67fa43387b2501819f38de20749d.pdf

University of Tehran Journal of Natural Environment 2008-7764 78 2 2025 09 21 Ecohydrological analysis of black carbon effects on accelerated snowmelt in the Alborz highlands using remote sensing and statistical modeling Ecohydrological analysis of black carbon effects on accelerated snowmelt in the Alborz highlands using remote sensing and statistical modeling 253 266 104022 10.22059/jne.2025.401222.2835 FA Reza Norooz-Valashedi Department of Water Engineering, Faculty of Agricultural Engineering, Sari University of Agricultural Sciences and Natural Resources, Sari, Iran. 0000-0003-1543-0866 Mohammadreza Noroozian-Rostami Department of Water Engineering, Faculty of Agricultural Engineering, Sari University of Agricultural Sciences and Natural Resources, Sari, Iran. 0009-0007-1803-9738 Journal Article 2025 09 01 Mountain snow, as a key component of the hydrological cycle, plays a crucial role in supplying both surface and subsurface water resources. This study employed an ecohydrological approach and remote sensing data to investigate the impact of black carbon (BC) pollution on snow surface albedo in the Alborz Mountains at elevations above 2000 meters during 2000–2024. Albedo data were obtained from the MOD10A1 V6.1 product, and BC data from the MERRA-2 reanalysis. Statistical analyses, including linear regression and the Generalized Additive Model (GAM), were conducted to examine temporal and monthly relationships between these variables. Results revealed a significant negative correlation between BC concentration and snow albedo during winter and early spring, highlighting the direct role of pollutants in reducing reflectivity and accelerating snowmelt. GAM results showed a nonlinear relationship between BC concentration and albedo sensitivity: sensitivity increased when BC exceeded 0.38 µg/m² but declined after reaching a saturation point of 0.45 µg/m². This identifies a critical BC concentration range of 0.40–0.50 µg/m², where snow albedo experiences the greatest reduction. Additionally, temporal trends indicated a significant increase in BC for most months and a continuous decline in albedo during cold periods. Factor analysis further demonstrated that, although the temperature–moisture factor remained stable over many years, increasing fluctuations in the pollution–radiation factor over the past decade have been the main driver of early snowmelt. Mountain snow, as a key component of the hydrological cycle, plays a crucial role in supplying both surface and subsurface water resources. This study employed an ecohydrological approach and remote sensing data to investigate the impact of black carbon (BC) pollution on snow surface albedo in the Alborz Mountains at elevations above 2000 meters during 2000–2024. Albedo data were obtained from the MOD10A1 V6.1 product, and BC data from the MERRA-2 reanalysis. Statistical analyses, including linear regression and the Generalized Additive Model (GAM), were conducted to examine temporal and monthly relationships between these variables. Results revealed a significant negative correlation between BC concentration and snow albedo during winter and early spring, highlighting the direct role of pollutants in reducing reflectivity and accelerating snowmelt. GAM results showed a nonlinear relationship between BC concentration and albedo sensitivity: sensitivity increased when BC exceeded 0.38 µg/m² but declined after reaching a saturation point of 0.45 µg/m². This identifies a critical BC concentration range of 0.40–0.50 µg/m², where snow albedo experiences the greatest reduction. Additionally, temporal trends indicated a significant increase in BC for most months and a continuous decline in albedo during cold periods. Factor analysis further demonstrated that, although the temperature–moisture factor remained stable over many years, increasing fluctuations in the pollution–radiation factor over the past decade have been the main driver of early snowmelt.

https://jne.ut.ac.ir/article_104022_cdbbe902c7386241c0a74cf0ca934412.pdf

University of Tehran Journal of Natural Environment 2008-7764 78 2 2025 09 21 Investigating the role of ICT and natural resource rent in human development and environmental quality: evidence from N11 countries and the SUR approach Investigating the role of ICT and natural resource rent in human development and environmental quality: evidence from N11 countries and the SUR approach 267 283 103902 10.22059/jne.2025.392316.2788 FA Ali Hasanvand Department of Economics, Faculty of Management and Economics, Lorestan University, Khorramabad, Iran. 0000-0002-9209-9233 Bahar Salarvand Department of Economics, Faculty of Management and Economics, Lorestan University, Khorramabad, Iran. 0009-0004-7579-5175 Journal Article 2025 04 12 The resource curse hypothesis challenges the complex relationship between natural resource abundance and economic development. This study aims to investigate the simultaneous relationships between human development and ecological footprint, along with their determinants—including information and communication technology (ICT), natural resource rent, industrial value-added, urbanization, globalization, financial development, and particularly the interactive effect of ICT and resource rent—in N-11 countries (with a focus on Iran) during 2007–2021. To this end, the Seemingly Unrelated Regression (SUR) equations method was employed. The results reveal that ICT plays a dual role: while significantly enhancing human development with a coefficient of 0.30, it exacerbates the ecological footprint with a coefficient of 0.11, highlighting the conflict between technological progress and environmental sustainability. Natural resource rent significantly reduces human development (coefficient: -0.11) and substantially increases the ecological footprint (coefficient: 0.10), confirming the resource curse hypothesis. Industrial value-added and urbanization both strengthen human development (coefficients: 0.31 and 0.33) but also elevate the ecological footprint (coefficients: 0.05 and 0.41). Financial development, despite significantly boosting human development (coefficient: 0.18), exerts substantial environmental pressure (coefficient: 0.61), underscoring the necessity for green financial policies. The interactive effect of ICT and resource rent, which increases human development (coefficient: 0.06) and reduces the ecological footprint (coefficient: -0.06), suggests that ICT advancement can help mitigate the resource curse in N-11 countries. These findings hold critical implications for policymakers in the studied countries to strike a balance between human development and environmental sustainability. The resource curse hypothesis challenges the complex relationship between natural resource abundance and economic development. This study aims to investigate the simultaneous relationships between human development and ecological footprint, along with their determinants—including information and communication technology (ICT), natural resource rent, industrial value-added, urbanization, globalization, financial development, and particularly the interactive effect of ICT and resource rent—in N-11 countries (with a focus on Iran) during 2007–2021. To this end, the Seemingly Unrelated Regression (SUR) equations method was employed. The results reveal that ICT plays a dual role: while significantly enhancing human development with a coefficient of 0.30, it exacerbates the ecological footprint with a coefficient of 0.11, highlighting the conflict between technological progress and environmental sustainability. Natural resource rent significantly reduces human development (coefficient: -0.11) and substantially increases the ecological footprint (coefficient: 0.10), confirming the resource curse hypothesis. Industrial value-added and urbanization both strengthen human development (coefficients: 0.31 and 0.33) but also elevate the ecological footprint (coefficients: 0.05 and 0.41). Financial development, despite significantly boosting human development (coefficient: 0.18), exerts substantial environmental pressure (coefficient: 0.61), underscoring the necessity for green financial policies. The interactive effect of ICT and resource rent, which increases human development (coefficient: 0.06) and reduces the ecological footprint (coefficient: -0.06), suggests that ICT advancement can help mitigate the resource curse in N-11 countries. These findings hold critical implications for policymakers in the studied countries to strike a balance between human development and environmental sustainability.

https://jne.ut.ac.ir/article_103902_78eb36a97d0e31a948c4410f8cceb1d3.pdf

University of Tehran Journal of Natural Environment 2008-7764 78 2 2025 09 21 Health risk assessment of selected heavy metals from the consumption of Talang Queenfish (Scomberoides commersonnianus) in the Dashtyaari region Health risk assessment of selected heavy metals from the consumption of Talang Queenfish (Scomberoides commersonnianus) in the Dashtyaari region 285 297 103614 10.22059/jne.2025.399456.2830 FA Milad Johar Department of Fisheries, Faculty of Marine Sciences, Chabahar Maritime University, Chabahar, Iran. 0000-0001-9556-0569 Seraj Bita Department of Fisheries, Faculty of Marine Sciences, Chabahar Maritime University, Chabahar, Iran. 0000-0001-9556-0569 Journal Article 2025 07 26 Among various aquatic pollutants, heavy metals are of particular concern due to their non-biodegradable nature, potential for bioaccumulation in the food chain, and their acute and chronic adverse effects on human health. Given the increasing contamination of water resources and the importance of continuous monitoring, this study investigated the accumulation of selected heavy metals in the muscle tissue of Talang Queenfish (Scomberoides commersonnianus) and assessed the associated health risks from its consumption. Fish samples were collected from Dashtyaari coastal waters, specifically from the fish landing sites of Beris, Pasabandar, and Gowatr. The analyzed heavy metals included cadmium (Cd), lead (Pb), chromium (Cr), zinc (Zn), copper (Cu), and nickel (Ni). Samples were prepared using a single-step acid wet digestion method, and metal concentrations were measured. Human health risk assessment was performed using environmental protection indices recommended by the U.S. EPA. The results indicated that the highest heavy metal contamination occurred in fish from Beris, with a Metal Pollution Index (MPI) of 1.44. Significant differences in cadmium and lead concentrations were observed between regions (P<0.05), while copper and zinc levels did not show significant variation (P>0.05). The highest estimated daily and weekly intake values were related to copper and zinc, while the lowest were attributed to cadmium, chromium, and nickel. The Target Hazard Quotient (THQ) and Hazard Index (HI) values for all metals in all regions were below 1, indicating no potential non-carcinogenic health risk from consuming this species. Based on MPI values, Beris should be prioritized for pollution monitoring and management, while periodic monitoring is recommended for Pasabandar, and environmental quality in Gowatr should be preserved to maintain its favorable status. Among various aquatic pollutants, heavy metals are of particular concern due to their non-biodegradable nature, potential for bioaccumulation in the food chain, and their acute and chronic adverse effects on human health. Given the increasing contamination of water resources and the importance of continuous monitoring, this study investigated the accumulation of selected heavy metals in the muscle tissue of Talang Queenfish (Scomberoides commersonnianus) and assessed the associated health risks from its consumption. Fish samples were collected from Dashtyaari coastal waters, specifically from the fish landing sites of Beris, Pasabandar, and Gowatr. The analyzed heavy metals included cadmium (Cd), lead (Pb), chromium (Cr), zinc (Zn), copper (Cu), and nickel (Ni). Samples were prepared using a single-step acid wet digestion method, and metal concentrations were measured. Human health risk assessment was performed using environmental protection indices recommended by the U.S. EPA. The results indicated that the highest heavy metal contamination occurred in fish from Beris, with a Metal Pollution Index (MPI) of 1.44. Significant differences in cadmium and lead concentrations were observed between regions (P<0.05), while copper and zinc levels did not show significant variation (P>0.05). The highest estimated daily and weekly intake values were related to copper and zinc, while the lowest were attributed to cadmium, chromium, and nickel. The Target Hazard Quotient (THQ) and Hazard Index (HI) values for all metals in all regions were below 1, indicating no potential non-carcinogenic health risk from consuming this species. Based on MPI values, Beris should be prioritized for pollution monitoring and management, while periodic monitoring is recommended for Pasabandar, and environmental quality in Gowatr should be preserved to maintain its favorable status.

https://jne.ut.ac.ir/article_103614_27c50ab36609ff57e867b5deb2a65936.pdf

University of Tehran Journal of Natural Environment 2008-7764 78 2 2025 09 21 Modeling and estimation of soil organic carbon using satellite images and machine learning algorithm in Alborz province Modeling and estimation of soil organic carbon using satellite images and machine learning algorithm in Alborz province 299 314 104252 10.22059/jne.2025.394148.2801 FA Saeed Saadat Soil and Water Research Institute, Agricultural Research, Education and Extension Organization, Karaj, Iran. 0000-0002-0398-619X Leila Esmaeelnejad Soil and Water Research Institute, Agricultural Research, Education and Extension Organization, Karaj, Iran. 0000-0001-8133-7833 Hamed Rezaei Soil and Water Research Institute, Agricultural Research, Education and Extension Organization, Karaj, Iran. 0000-0002-0805-5167 Rasoul Mirkhani Soil and Water Research Institute, Agricultural Research, Education and Extension Organization, Karaj, Iran. 0000-0003-0119-9771 Amirreza Esfandyar Department of Forestry Engineering and Forest Economics, Faculty of Natural Resources, niversity College of Agriculture and Natural Resources, University of Tehran, Karaj, Iran. 0009-0000-4262-4493 Journal Article 2025 04 26 This study was conducted to model and estimate the spatial distribution of soil organic carbon (SOC) in the agricultural lands of Alborz province by integrating Landsat 8 satellite data with the Random Forest machine learning algorithm. The model was based on field data from 257 soil samples collected via a regular grid method, with their SOC content measured using the Walkley-Black method. Predictor variables included visible, near-infrared (NIR), and short-wave infrared (SWIR) spectral bands, along with relevant vegetation indices. The model's performance evaluation confirmed its high accuracy, with a coefficient of determination (R2) of 0.83 and a normalized root mean square error (NRMSE) of 12.5%. The resulting map showed an average SOC of 0.23% for the region, with the highest values concentrated in the northern and central parts of the province. Additionally, a trend analysis over the last decade showed no statistically significant changes in the mean SOC. The findings demonstrate the significant potential of combining machine learning algorithms with remote sensing data for accurate and efficient mapping of soil organic carbon at a regional scale. This approach can serve as an effective tool for sustainable soil resource management and greenhouse gas emission reduction strategies. This study was conducted to model and estimate the spatial distribution of soil organic carbon (SOC) in the agricultural lands of Alborz province by integrating Landsat 8 satellite data with the Random Forest machine learning algorithm. The model was based on field data from 257 soil samples collected via a regular grid method, with their SOC content measured using the Walkley-Black method. Predictor variables included visible, near-infrared (NIR), and short-wave infrared (SWIR) spectral bands, along with relevant vegetation indices. The model's performance evaluation confirmed its high accuracy, with a coefficient of determination (R2) of 0.83 and a normalized root mean square error (NRMSE) of 12.5%. The resulting map showed an average SOC of 0.23% for the region, with the highest values concentrated in the northern and central parts of the province. Additionally, a trend analysis over the last decade showed no statistically significant changes in the mean SOC. The findings demonstrate the significant potential of combining machine learning algorithms with remote sensing data for accurate and efficient mapping of soil organic carbon at a regional scale. This approach can serve as an effective tool for sustainable soil resource management and greenhouse gas emission reduction strategies.

https://jne.ut.ac.ir/article_104252_e732b84af8e033529e17550b87b64c50.pdf

University of Tehran Journal of Natural Environment 2008-7764 78 2 2025 09 21 Investigating the environmental impacts of the Zabol wastewater treatment plant using a life cycle approach Investigating the environmental impacts of the Zabol wastewater treatment plant using a life cycle approach 315 328 104311 10.22059/jne.2025.402134.2840 FA Fatemeh Sargolzaei Department of Environment, Faculty of Natural Resources, University of Zabol, Zabol, Sistan and Baluchestan, Iran. 0009-0003-4830-8565 Fatemeh Einollahipeer Department of Environment, Faculty of Natural Resources, University of Zabol, Zabol, Sistan and Baluchestan, Iran. 0000-0001-5998-6132 Reza Dahmardeh Behrooz Department of Environment, Faculty of Natural Resources, University of Zabol, Zabol, Sistan and Baluchestan, Iran. 0000-0003-0933-2725 Narjes Okati Department of Environment, Faculty of Natural Resources, University of Zabol, Zabol, Sistan and Baluchestan, Iran. 0000-0001-7646-7203 Journal Article 2025 09 11 This study was conducted to comprehensively evaluate the environmental impacts associated with the wastewater treatment plant (WWTP) in Zabol city, with the objectives of identifying the system’s critical and weak points and proposing corrective strategies to mitigate these impacts. The midpoint and endpoint environmental effects of the WWTP were quantified per functional unit (1 m³ of treated wastewater) using the ReCiPe 2016 H methodology. Climatic impacts were assessed following the approach recommended by the Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change (IPCC). Additionally, the cumulative energy demand (CED) and ecological footprint (EF) indicators were calculated to provide a broader perspective on the plant’s environmental performance. The life cycle assessment (LCA) results, based on the ReCiPe method, indicated that electricity and sulphate were the most influential contributors, exerting the highest impacts on terrestrial ecosystem toxicity (0.509 kg 1,4-DCB eq), freshwater ecosystem toxicity (0.251 kg 1,4-DCB eq), human non-carcinogenic toxicity (27.7 kg 1,4-DCB eq), and marine ecotoxicity (0.259 kg 1,4-DCB eq). The total carbon emissions of the plant were estimated at 3.969 kg CO₂. In terms of energy profile, fossil fuels were identified as the predominant source of energy consumption. The ecological footprint analysis revealed that human health impacts represented the largest contribution among all assessed categories. Overall, electricity consumption and sulphate were identified as the main environmental hotspots of the WWTP. Consequently, replacing fossil fuels with renewable energy sources, such as wind and solar power, could significantly reduce the energy-related impacts. Furthermore, improving the performance of the aerobic treatment process and consequently reducing the sulfate concentration in the influent wastewater can have a significant effect on mitigating the overall environmental impacts. This study was conducted to comprehensively evaluate the environmental impacts associated with the wastewater treatment plant (WWTP) in Zabol city, with the objectives of identifying the system’s critical and weak points and proposing corrective strategies to mitigate these impacts. The midpoint and endpoint environmental effects of the WWTP were quantified per functional unit (1 m³ of treated wastewater) using the ReCiPe 2016 H methodology. Climatic impacts were assessed following the approach recommended by the Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change (IPCC). Additionally, the cumulative energy demand (CED) and ecological footprint (EF) indicators were calculated to provide a broader perspective on the plant’s environmental performance. The life cycle assessment (LCA) results, based on the ReCiPe method, indicated that electricity and sulphate were the most influential contributors, exerting the highest impacts on terrestrial ecosystem toxicity (0.509 kg 1,4-DCB eq), freshwater ecosystem toxicity (0.251 kg 1,4-DCB eq), human non-carcinogenic toxicity (27.7 kg 1,4-DCB eq), and marine ecotoxicity (0.259 kg 1,4-DCB eq). The total carbon emissions of the plant were estimated at 3.969 kg CO₂. In terms of energy profile, fossil fuels were identified as the predominant source of energy consumption. The ecological footprint analysis revealed that human health impacts represented the largest contribution among all assessed categories. Overall, electricity consumption and sulphate were identified as the main environmental hotspots of the WWTP. Consequently, replacing fossil fuels with renewable energy sources, such as wind and solar power, could significantly reduce the energy-related impacts. Furthermore, improving the performance of the aerobic treatment process and consequently reducing the sulfate concentration in the influent wastewater can have a significant effect on mitigating the overall environmental impacts.

https://jne.ut.ac.ir/article_104311_31cfb595ad3cba81a5b10757bfb6c081.pdf

University of Tehran Journal of Natural Environment 2008-7764 78 2 2025 09 21 The relationship of age and sex of Dori bleak (Alburnus doriae) and Brond Snout (Chondrostoma regium) with their diet in the Zayandeh-Rud River The relationship of age and sex of Dori bleak (Alburnus doriae) and Brond Snout (Chondrostoma regium) with their diet in the Zayandeh-Rud River 329 344 104390 10.22059/jne.2025.392367.2789 FA Omidvar Farhadian Department of Natural Resources, Isfahan University of Technology, Isfahan, Iran. Javad Bagheri Department of Natural Resources, Isfahan University of Technology, Isfahan, Iran. 0009-0007-8848-1230 Nasrollah Mahboobi Soofiani Department of Natural Resources, Isfahan University of Technology, Isfahan, Iran. 0000-0001-7706-4510 Safiollah Heidari Department of Natural Resources, Isfahan University of Technology, Isfahan, Iran. 0009-0001-1564-9289 Eisa Ebrahimi Department of Natural Resources, Isfahan University of Technology, Isfahan, Iran. 0000-0002-4001-2167 Journal Article 2025 03 30 This study, with the aim of investigating the effect of age and sex on diet and food resource allocation patterns, focused on Alburnus doriae and Chondrostoma regium. In order to achieve this goal, a total of 400 specimens (200 samples from each species, including male, female, and juvenile) were collected seasonally over a full year from the Zayandeh-rud River, located in Chaharmahal and Bakhtiari Province. To quantify the relative importance of food groups and compare them, the Numerical Importance Index was used, which indicates the frequency or number of prey in the digestive tract. Analysis results showed that in both species, Insects had the highest numerical importance and were recognized as the main food for all age and sex groups. An important finding was the noticeable decrease in diet diversity with increasing age in both species, which indicates specialization of the diet in larger fish. Furthermore, A. doriae showed greater food diversity and a more specialized tendency compared to C. regium (which is more flexible in its food resources). The diet of both species is strongly dependent on benthic insect resources of the Zayandeh-rud River. This specialization of diet with increasing age, as a size-related diet change strategy, helps in the better management of energy needs in larger fish. The difference in feeding strategies between A. doriae (a more specialized insectivore) and C. regium (a more flexible omnivore), provides an opportunity for resource partitioning and stable coexistence in this aquatic ecosystem. This study, with the aim of investigating the effect of age and sex on diet and food resource allocation patterns, focused on Alburnus doriae and Chondrostoma regium. In order to achieve this goal, a total of 400 specimens (200 samples from each species, including male, female, and juvenile) were collected seasonally over a full year from the Zayandeh-rud River, located in Chaharmahal and Bakhtiari Province. To quantify the relative importance of food groups and compare them, the Numerical Importance Index was used, which indicates the frequency or number of prey in the digestive tract. Analysis results showed that in both species, Insects had the highest numerical importance and were recognized as the main food for all age and sex groups. An important finding was the noticeable decrease in diet diversity with increasing age in both species, which indicates specialization of the diet in larger fish. Furthermore, A. doriae showed greater food diversity and a more specialized tendency compared to C. regium (which is more flexible in its food resources). The diet of both species is strongly dependent on benthic insect resources of the Zayandeh-rud River. This specialization of diet with increasing age, as a size-related diet change strategy, helps in the better management of energy needs in larger fish. The difference in feeding strategies between A. doriae (a more specialized insectivore) and C. regium (a more flexible omnivore), provides an opportunity for resource partitioning and stable coexistence in this aquatic ecosystem.

https://jne.ut.ac.ir/article_104390_dc838730488c86e30d35e5784feace7d.pdf