This article attempts to break down the dualism of the village-urban development phenomenon in the modernization era. In the post-2020 development transformation era such as the Sustainable Development Goal (SDG) 2030, the development of SC (smart city-SC) and smart village (SV) is very important and needs to be discussed. Issues and questions of the SC and SV discussions are the extent to which these two development models can break the tradition of dual-city development dualism phenomena as happened in (...) the modernization era. Through the completeness of information and communication technology (ICT) and the comprehensive development strategy of SC and SV, the phenomenon of development dualism can be solved through the concept of Rurban. The concept of Rurban greatly opens up opportunities for mutual advancement between SC and SV based on hyperlinked networks, whether in terms of socio-political, socio-economic and/or socio-cultural development. This means the Rurban concept can be realized through network links from all aspects of SC and SV progression with perfect aspirations for wellbeing, equality, quality of life, empowerment, competitiveness, resilience and independence. This discussion attempts to see the breakdown of the dual-village urban dualism tradition through Rurban SC and SV concepts by using quantitativeapproaches and case studies in Malaysia. The findings show that there are elements of this dualism solving tradition with the existence of the SC and SV as network links from the point of use of ICT and other communication facilities between the rural and urban sectors. (shrink)

The rapid urbanization of modern cities necessitates innovative approaches to data collection and integration for smarter urban management. With the Internet of Things (IoT) at the core of these advancements, the ability to efficiently gather, analyze, and utilize data becomes paramount. Generative Artificial Intelligence (AI) is revolutionizing data collection by enabling intelligent synthesis, anomaly detection, and real-time decision-making across interconnected systems. This paper explores how generative AI enhances IoT-driven data collection in smart cities, focusing on applications in (...) transportation, energy, public safety, and environmental monitoring. By addressing challenges such as data privacy, scalability, and ethical considerations, the study highlights how generative AI transforms urban governance and paves the way for sustainable and citizen-centric development. Key trends, case studies, and future research directions are discussed, showcasing the potential of generative AI as a cornerstone of smart city initiatives. (shrink)

This chapter will explore the dynamics of power underpinning ethical issues within smart cities via a new paradigm derived from Systems Theory. The smart city is an expression of technology as a socio-technical system. The vision of the smart city contains a deep fusion of many different technical systems into a single integrated “ambient intelligence”. ETICA Project, 2010, p. 102). Citizens of the smart city will not experience a succession of different technologies, but a single (...) intelligent and responsive environment through which they move. Analysis of such an environment requires a framework which transcends traditional ontologically-based models in order to accommodate this deep fusion. This chapter will outline a framework based on Latour’s Actor-Network Theory and Luhmann’s treatment of society as an autopoetic system. We shall use this framework to map the influence of relevant factors on ethical issues, irrespective of their composition or type. For example, under this treatment, both human praxis and technical design can be viewed as comparable tools of domination. This chapter will provide a framework for the analysis of relations between any elements of the smart city, ranging from top-level urban management processes down to individual device operations. While we will illustrate the use of this schema through examination of ethical issues arising from power dynamics within the smart city, it is intended that this example will demonstrate the wider utility of the model in general. (shrink)

For smart cities, data-driven innovation promises societal benefits and increased well-being for residents and visitors. At the same time, the deployment of data-driven innovation poses significant ethical challenges. Although cities and other public-sector actors have increasingly adopted ethical principles, employing them in practice remains challenging. In this commentary, we use a virtue-based approach that bridges the gap between abstract principles and the daily work of practitioners who engage in and with data-driven innovation processes. Inspired by Aristotle, we (...) describe practices of data-driven innovation in a smart city applying the concepts of virtue and phronêsis, meaning good judgment of and sensitivity to ethical issues. We use a dialogic case-study approach to study two cases of data-driven innovation in the city of Helsinki. We then describe as an illustration of how our approach can help bridge the gap between concrete practices of data-driven innovation and high-level principles. Overall, we advance a theoretically grounded, virtue-based approach, which is practice oriented and linked to the daily work of data scientists and other practitioners of data-driven innovation. Further, this approach helps understand the need for and importance of individual application of phronêsis, which is particularly important in public-sector organizations that can experience gaps between principle and practice. This importance is further intensified in cases of data-driven innovation in which, by definition, novel and unknown contexts are explored. (shrink)

Rapid advancement of urbanization has necessitated the creation of "smart cities," where information and communication technologies (ICT) are used to improve the quality of urban life. Central to the smart city paradigm is data integration—connecting disparate data sources from various urban systems, such as transportation, healthcare, utilities, and public safety. This paper explores the role of Artificial Intelligence (AI) in facilitating data integration within smart cities, focusing on how AI technologies can enable effective urban governance. (...) By examining the current landscape of data integration and AI in smart cities, we highlight key challenges, solutions, and future trends. We conclude that AI-driven data integration is essential for optimizing city operations, fostering sustainability, and enhancing decision-making for urban governance. (shrink)

The rise of artificial intelligence (AI) has significantly impacted urban environments, facilitating the development of smart cities. This paper examines how AI technologies are reshaping urban ecosystems by fostering innovation and promoting sustainability. It explores the integration of AI in critical sectors such as transportation, energy management, waste management, and governance. The study also addresses challenges, including data privacy, ethical considerations, and the digital divide, offering insights into future research and policy directions. Smart cities serve as (...) testbeds for innovative AI applications, offering scalable solutions to urban challenges while advancing global sustainability goals. Urbanization presents challenges requiring innovative solutions. Artificial Intelligence (AI) is revolutionizing urban planning and smart city initiatives by enhancing efficiency, sustainability, and citizen-centric development. This paper explores how AI technologies contribute to. (shrink)

: The rapid proliferation of Internet of Things (IoT) devices in smart cities has introduced numerous benefits, enhancing urban efficiency, sustainability, and automation. However, these interconnected systems also pose significant cybersecurity challenges, including data breaches, unauthorized access, and cyberattacks that can compromise critical infrastructure. This paper explores various cybersecurity strategies tailored for IoT environments in smart cities, focusing on encryption techniques, secure authentication mechanisms, network security protocols, and blockchain-based security models. Additionally, it discusses machine learningbased anomaly (...) detection systems to identify potential cyber threats in real time. By analyzing existing security frameworks and emerging solutions, this study provides a comprehensive approach to safeguarding IoT devices in smart urban ecosystems. The findings emphasize the need for a multi-layered security model and proactive threat mitigation strategies to ensure the resilience and integrity of smart city infrastructures. (shrink)

The rapid proliferation of Internet of Things (IoT) devices in smart cities has introduced numerous benefits, enhancing urban efficiency, sustainability, and automation. However, these interconnected systems also pose significant cybersecurity challenges, including data breaches, unauthorized access, and cyberattacks that can compromise critical infrastructure. This paper explores various cybersecurity strategies tailored for IoT environments in smart cities, focusing on encryption techniques, secure authentication mechanisms, network security protocols, and blockchain-based security models. Additionally, it discusses machine learningbased anomaly detection (...) systems to identify potential cyber threats in real time. By analyzing existing security frameworks and emerging solutions, this study provides a comprehensive approach to safeguarding IoT devices in smart urban ecosystems. The findings emphasize the need for a multi-layered security model and proactive threat mitigation strategies to ensure the resilience and integrity of smart city infrastructures. (shrink)

Urban resilience is critical for ensuring the sustainability and adaptability of cities in the face of growing challenges such as climate change, population growth, and infrastructure degradation. Predictive analytics, powered by Artificial Intelligence (AI) and the Internet of Things (IoT), offers a transformative approach to enhancing urban resilience. This paper explores how AI-driven predictive analytics can optimize disaster preparedness, infrastructure maintenance, and resource allocation in smart cities. By integrating real-time data from IoT sensors with advanced machine learning (...) models, cities can proactively address vulnerabilities and improve decision-making. This study highlights key applications, challenges, and future directions for leveraging predictive analytics to build resilient urban ecosystems. (shrink)

Ensuring public safety is a critical challenge for rapidly growing urban areas. Traditional policing and emergency response systems often struggle to keep pace with the complexity and scale of modern cities. Artificial Intelligence (AI) offers a transformative solution by enabling real-time crime prediction, optimizing emergency resource allocation, and enhancing situational awareness through IoT-enabled systems. This paper explores how AI-driven analytics, combined with data from surveillance cameras, social media, and environmental sensors, can improve public safety in smart cities. (...) By addressing challenges such as data privacy, algorithmic bias, and system scalability, this study demonstrates the potential of AI to create safer, more resilient urban environments. Experimental results highlight improvements in crime detection rates, emergency response times, and resource utilization, paving the way for smarter public safety systems. (shrink)

The growing volume of urban waste poses significant environmental and economic challenges for cities worldwide. Traditional waste management systems often rely on inefficient collection routes, inadequate recycling processes, and excessive landfill usage. This paper explores how Artificial Intelligence (AI) and IoT technologies can revolutionize waste management in smart cities by enabling real-time monitoring, automated sorting, and optimized collection routes. By integrating data from smart bins, robotic sorting systems, and predictive analytics, cities can achieve zero-waste goals (...) and promote circular economy practices. Experimental results demonstrate significant improvements in waste segregation accuracy, collection efficiency, and recycling rates, offering a sustainable blueprint for urban waste management. (shrink)

Urbanization poses significant challenges to healthcare systems, including overcrowded hospitals, inequitable access to care, and rising costs. Artificial Intelligence (AI) and the Internet of Things (IoT) offer transformative solutions for optimizing healthcare delivery in smart cities. This paper explores how AI-driven predictive analytics, combined with IoT-enabled wearable devices and telemedicine platforms, can enhance patient outcomes, streamline resource allocation, and reduce urban health disparities. By analyzing real-time health data and predicting disease outbreaks, this study demonstrates the potential of AI (...) to revolutionize urban healthcare systems. Experimental results highlight improvements in diagnostic accuracy, emergency response times, and operational efficiency, paving the way for equitable and sustainable healthcare in smart cities. (shrink)

Urban green spaces are vital for mitigating climate change, enhancing biodiversity, and improving citizen well-being. However, traditional methods of designing and managing these spaces often lack the precision and scalability needed to address modern urban challenges. This paper explores how Artificial Intelligence (AI) and IoT technologies can optimize urban green spaces in smart cities. By integrating satellite imagery, soil sensors, and machine learning models, cities can dynamically monitor plant health, predict ecological impacts, and design green zones that (...) maximize biodiversity and sustainability. Experimental results demonstrate improvements in air quality, heat island reduction, and community engagement, offering a blueprint for AI-driven ecological urban planning. (shrink)

Air pollution is a critical challenge for urban areas, contributing to public health crises and environmental degradation. Traditional air quality monitoring systems often lack the granularity and adaptability needed to address dynamic pollution sources and patterns. This paper explores how Artificial Intelligence (AI) and IoT technologies can enhance air quality management in smart cities by enabling real-time monitoring, pollution source identification, and adaptive mitigation strategies. By integrating data from IoT sensors, satellite imagery, and traffic systems, cities can (...) reduce pollution levels, improve public health outcomes, and promote sustainable urban environments. Experimental results demonstrate significant improvements in pollution detection accuracy, mitigation efficiency, and public awareness, offering a sustainable blueprint for urban air quality management. (shrink)

Noise pollution is a growing concern in urban areas, contributing to public health issues such as stress, sleep disturbances, and hearing loss. Traditional noise monitoring systems often lack the granularity and adaptability needed to address dynamic noise sources and patterns. This paper explores how Artificial Intelligence (AI) and IoT technologies can enhance noise pollution management in smart cities by enabling real-time monitoring, source identification, and adaptive mitigation strategies. By integrating data from IoT sensors, traffic systems, and urban infrastructure, (...) cities can reduce noise levels, improve public health outcomes, and enhance the quality of life for residents. Experimental results demonstrate significant improvements in noise detection accuracy, mitigation efficiency, and public awareness, offering a sustainable blueprint for urban noise pollution management. (shrink)

The chapter aims to introduce an integrated approach to concepts of smart cities and age-friendly cities and communities. Although these ideas are widely promoted by the European Union and the World Health Organisation, they are perceived as separate. Meanwhile, these concepts are closely intermingled in theory and practise concerning the promotion of healthy and active ageing, a universal design, usability and accessibility of age-friendly environments, reducing of the digital divide and robotic divide, and reducing of older adults’ (...) social isolation. The conclusion underlines the need for participatory creation of ambient assisted living technologies and applications with older adults and the need for advocacy to promote AAL in the context of the silver economy especially in the Central and Eastern Europe. (shrink)

Urban transportation systems face significant challenges due to increasing congestion, inefficient routes, and fluctuating passenger demand. Traditional public transportation networks often struggle to adapt dynamically to these challenges, leading to delays, overcrowding, and environmental inefficiencies. This paper explores how Artificial Intelligence (AI) and IoT technologies can optimize urban mobility by enabling real-time route optimization, demand forecasting, and passenger flow management. By integrating data from GPS trackers, fare collection systems, and environmental sensors, cities can reduce travel times, enhance commuter satisfaction, (...) and promote sustainable transportation. Experimental results demonstrate improvements in route efficiency, passenger load balancing, and operational costs, offering a blueprint for AI-driven smart urban mobility. (shrink)

The growing demand for energy in urban environments, coupled with the urgent need to reduce carbon emissions, necessitates innovative approaches to power generation, distribution, and consumption. Artificial Intelligence (AI)-driven smart grids offer a transformative solution by optimizing energy efficiency, integrating renewable resources, and ensuring grid stability. This paper explores how machine learning and IoT-enabled predictive analytics can enhance smart grid performance in urban areas. By addressing challenges such as demand forecasting, load balancing, and renewable energy intermittency, this study (...) demonstrates the potential of AI to revolutionize sustainable energy management. Experimental results highlight improvements in grid reliability, cost reduction, and carbon footprint minimization, paving the way for resilient and eco-friendly urban energy systems. (shrink)

Barcelona en Comú, the feminist political platform currently running the city of Barcelona, is cultivating a Smart Feminist City aiming to put technology at the service of the people rather than, for example, selling citizen data to corpora- tions. This paper extends Elizabeth Grosz’s theorisation of the Bodies-Cities inter- face to a Bodies-Cities-Technologies interface to think through the implications of the ways in which a feminist city such as Barcelona is reversing the neoliberal Smart City paradigm (...) through its harnessing of technology to use for the common good and to challenge social discrimination. In doing so, this paper prompts us to think through the implications of these changes on the production of subjectivities through the Bodies-Cities-Technologies interface. (shrink)

The rapid evolution of technology, especially in the realm of smart systems, has significantly impacted modern urban development. This paper explores how smart technology is reshaping cities to be more sustainable, efficient, and livable. Smart technologies have the potential to optimize energy use, reduce carbon footprints, enhance mobility, improve urban governance, and foster more resilient infrastructures. This paper investigates the effects of smart cities in the context of sustainability, examining both the environmental and societal (...) benefits and challenges. The paper is structured into sections covering energy management, transportation, waste management, and smart governance, supported by data and case studies from leading smart cities around the world. (shrink)

Emergency response times play a critical role in saving lives, especially in urban settings where traffic congestion and unpredictable events can delay ambulance arrivals. This paper explores a novel framework for smart route optimization for emergency vehicles, leveraging artificial intelligence (AI), Internet of Things (IoT) technologies, and dynamic traffic analytics. We propose a real-time adaptive routing system that integrates machine learning (ML) for predictive modeling and IoT-enabled communication with traffic infrastructure. The system is evaluated using simulated urban environments, achieving (...) a 35% reduction in response times compared to traditional methods. This work lays the foundation for future advancements in intelligent emergency systems and their integration into smart cities. (shrink)

A number of experiences have demonstrated how digital solutions are effective in improving quality of life (QoL) and health outcomes for older adults. Smart Health Age-Friendly Environments (SHAFE) is a new concept introduced in Europe since 2017 that combines the concept of Age-Friendly Environments with Information Technologies, supported by health and community care to improve the health and disease management of older adults and during the life-course. This chapter aims to provide an initial overview of the experiences available not (...) only in Europe, based on the research work of the participants of the International Interdisciplinary Network on Health and Well-being in an Age-Friendly Digital World (NET4Age-Friendly), which could be of interest to preventive, health and social authorities. The chapter reports good practices, pain points, and bottlenecks that may require a collaborative, interdisciplinary research approach to facilitate the transformations towards smart, sustainable, health and age-friendly cities and communities. (shrink)

Emergency response times play a critical role in saving lives, especially in urban settings where traffic congestion and unpredictable events can delay ambulance arrivals. This paper explores a novel framework for smart route optimization for emergency vehicles, leveraging artificial intelligence (AI), Internet of Things (IoT) technologies, and dynamic traffic analytics. We propose a real-time adaptive routing system that integrates machine learning (ML) for predictive modeling and IoT-enabled communication with traffic infrastructure. The system is evaluated using simulated urban environments, achieving (...) a 35% reduction in response times compared to traditional methods. This work lays the foundation for future advancements in intelligent emergency systems and their integration into smart cities. (shrink)

The paper provides an introduction to the public discourse around the notion of smart healthy inclusive environments. First, the basic ideas are explained and related to citizen participation in the context of implementation of a “society for all ages” concept disseminated by the United Nations. Next, the text discusses selected initiatives of the European Commission in the field of intergenerational programming and policies as well as features of the COST Action NET4Age-Friendly: Smart Healthy Age-Friendly Environments. The following sections (...) are focused on studying and discussing examples of projects and methodologies that have been aimed at: empowering facilitators of smart healthy inclusive environments, empowering citizens to deal with health emergencies, and supporting older people’s voices. The conclusion covers selected recommendations for entities of public policy on ageing as well as potential directions for further research. (shrink)

This Research Topic addresses the eleventh Sustainable Development Goal (SDG), which is to “make cities and human settlements inclusive, safe, resilient and sustainable.” Several individual targets and indicators measure progress toward this goal. Researchers study, among others, urban inclusion, the influence of urban policy on socioeconomic disparities, and gentrification. This Research Topic primarily addresses the challenges and complexities of sustainable urban planning and development concerning decent work, economic growth, and associated crises due to their significant impact on urban living.

Urban parking systems are a significant contributor to traffic congestion and driver frustration, with studies showing that up to 30% of urban traffic is caused by drivers searching for parking. Traditional parking systems often lack real-time data and adaptability, leading to inefficiencies such as overfilled lots and underutilized spaces. This paper explores how Artificial Intelligence (AI) and IoT technologies can optimize urban parking by enabling real-time parking space detection, demand forecasting, and dynamic pricing. By integrating data from IoT sensors, traffic (...) systems, and mobile applications, cities can reduce congestion, improve parking availability, and enhance the overall urban mobility experience. Experimental results demonstrate significant improvements in parking efficiency, traffic flow, and user satisfaction, offering a sustainable blueprint for smart urban parking systems. (shrink)

Urban wastewater management is a critical component of sustainable water cycles, but traditional systems often struggle with inefficiencies such as high operational costs, resource wastage, and environmental pollution. This paper explores how Artificial Intelligence (AI) and IoT technologies can optimize urban wastewater management by enabling real-time monitoring, predictive maintenance, and resource recovery. By integrating data from IoT sensors, water quality monitors, and treatment plants, cities can improve water quality, reduce operational costs, and recover valuable resources such as energy and (...) nutrients. Experimental results demonstrate significant improvements in treatment efficiency, resource recovery rates, and environmental impact, offering a sustainable blueprint for smart urban wastewater systems. (shrink)

Urban lighting systems are essential for safety, security, and quality of life, but they often consume significant energy and lack adaptability to changing conditions. Traditional lighting systems rely on fixed schedules and manual adjustments, leading to inefficiencies such as over-illumination and energy waste. This paper explores how Artificial Intelligence (AI) and IoT technologies can optimize urban lighting by enabling real-time adjustments, energy savings, and adaptive illumination based on environmental conditions and human activity. By integrating data from motion sensors, weather forecasts, (...) and traffic systems, cities can reduce energy consumption, enhance safety, and improve the quality of life for residents. Experimental results demonstrate significant improvements in energy efficiency, lighting quality, and operational costs, offering a sustainable blueprint for smart urban lighting systems. (shrink)

The Global Media and Information Literacy Week commemorates the progress in achieving “MIL for all” by aggregating various MIL-related local and international events and actions across different disciplines around the world.The MIL Global Week 2018, 24 to 31 October, was marked by the United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization in collaboration with various organizations including the UN Alliance of Civilizations, the Global Alliance for Partnership on MIL, the International Federation of Library Associations, the International Association of School Libraries, and (...) the UNESCO-UNAOC University Cooperation Programme on Media and Information Literacy and Intercultural Dialogue. (shrink)

This chapter reports on Sweden as an active and critical player within the European sharing economy. With a key focus on cities, Sweden has launched a national program, “Sharing Cities Sweden”—a strategic innovation program for smart and sustainable cities with an allocated budget of 12 million EUR over four years. The objectives of the program are to develop world-leading test-beds for the sharing economy in Stockholm, Gothenburg, Malmö, and Umeå, as well as develop a national node (...) to significantly improve national and international cooperation and promote an exchange of experience on sharing cities. In the following pages, the sharing economy in Sweden is outlined, first, through exploring the definitions adopted by various actors and key questions to be addressed, and second, with the help of examples of existing collaborative economy platforms. The report concludes with a discussion on the collaborative economy in a Swedish context, forthcoming developments in the sector, and the associated issues and challenges. (shrink)

Podstawowym celem artykułu jest przybliżenie dwóch wzajemnie powi¸a}zanych koncepcji istotnych z perspektywy zarz¸a}dzania publicznego w ramach polityki wobec starzenia siȩ społeczeństwa na poziomie lokalnym. Pierwsza koncepcja to „inteligentne miasta", która dotyczy wykorzystania nowych technologii informacyjno-komunikacyjnych do poprawy zarz¸a}dzania miastami oraz dostarczania obywatelom innowacyjnych usług publicznych. Druga koncepcja to „miasta przyjazne starzeniu siȩ", która obejmuje optymalizacjȩ wszystkich funkcji miejskich do potrzeb wszystkich grup wiekowych oraz wykorzystanie szerokiego zaangażowania interesariuszy na rzecz poprawy jakości życia w okresie starości. Drugim celem jest wskazanie prób (...) praktycznego wdrażania tych koncepcji w krajach Grupy Wyszehradzkiej, które w odróżnieniu od omawianych zazwyczaj w literaturze przykładów z Europy Zachodniej charakteryzuj¸a siȩ nie tylko szybkim starzeniem siȩ populacji, ale też niedostatkami infrastruktury. W podsumowaniu przybliżono wnioski z przeprowadzonej analizy oraz potencjalne dalsze kierunki badań. ** The main aim of this paper is to introduce two interrelated concepts relevant from the perspective of public management of the ageing policy at the local level. The first concept is "smart cities," which refers to the use of new information and communication technologies to improve urban management and delivery of innovative public services for citizens. The second concept is "age-friendly cities," which includes optimization of all municipal functions to meet the needs of all age groups and to use the wide involvement of relevant stakeholders to improve the quality of life in old age. The second aim of the paper is to describe closer attempts of the practical implementation of these concepts in countries of the Visegrad Group that unlike generally discussed in the literature examples from the Western Europe are not only characterized by rapidly ageing populations, but also shortcomings of the infrastructure. Conclusions include a summary of the undertaken analysis and potential future directions of research. (shrink)

Buildings account for a significant portion of global energy consumption and carbon emissions, making energy efficiency a critical focus for urban sustainability. Traditional building management systems often lack the adaptability and precision needed to optimize energy usage dynamically. This paper explores how Artificial Intelligence (AI) and IoT technologies can enhance energy efficiency in smart buildings by enabling real-time monitoring, predictive maintenance, and adaptive control systems. By integrating data from smart meters, occupancy sensors, and environmental monitors, cities can (...) reduce energy waste, lower carbon footprints, and improve occupant comfort. Experimental results demonstrate significant improvements in energy savings, operational costs, and environmental impact, offering a sustainable blueprint for smart building management. (shrink)

Edge computing, combined with machine learning (ML), is emerging as a transformative paradigm for handling the data deluge generated by the Internet of Things (IoT) devices. Traditional cloud computing is often inadequate for the low-latency, high-throughput demands of IoT applications, especially in real-time analytics. By processing data locally at the edge of the network, edge computing reduces latency, enhances privacy, and alleviates the bandwidth burden on centralized cloud servers. The integration of ML algorithms into edge devices further augments the decision-making (...) process by enabling real-time data analytics, improving operational efficiency, and delivering immediate insights. This paper explores the synergy between edge computing, ML, and IoT, discussing how real-time data analytics at the edge can transform industries such as smart cities, healthcare, and industrial automation. We also present challenges, future directions, and practical applications of machine learning-based real-time analytics for edge computing in IoT ecosystems. (shrink)

COVID-19 pandemic caused by novel coronavirus is continuously spreading until now all over the world. The impact of COVID-19 has fallen on almost all sectors of development. The healthcare system is going through a crisis. Many precautionary measures have been taken to reduce the spread of this disease where wearing a mask is one of them. In this paper, we propose a system that restricts the growth of COVID-19 by finding out people who are not wearing any facial mask in (...) a smart city network where all the public places are monitored with Closed-Circuit Television (CCTV) cameras. While a person without a mask is detected, the corresponding authority is informed through the city network. A deep learning architecture is trained on a dataset that consists of images of people with and without masks collected from various sources. The trained architecture achieved 98.7% accuracy on distinguishing people with and without a facial mask for previously unseen test data. It is hoped that our study would be a useful tool to reduce the spread of this communicable disease for many countries in the world. (shrink)

This Chapter explores the integration of Blue- Green Infrastructure (BGI) into urban development using data- driven approaches enhanced by AI- powered ETL (Extract, Transform, Load) systems. As cities face increasing challenges due to climate change, sustainable urban planning practices such as BGI—which combines natural (green) and water management (blue) elements—are critical for resilience. However, the complexity of urban environments demands sophisticated data processing techniques to assess, design, and implement BGI solutions effectively. By adopting AI models within ETL processes, this (...) paper presents a framework that automates the analysis of incoming environmental data, optimizes the planning process, and provides adaptive decision- making tools. The study highlights how AI- augmented ETL systems can process large volumes of geospatial, environmental, and infrastructure data, offering a more efficient, scalable, and intelligent approach to urban BGI integration. Case studies of smart city initiatives employing this technology are discussed, showcasing the benefits of data- driven BGI solutions in enhancing sustainability, urban resilience, and quality of life. (shrink)

The article examines the impact of the virtual public sphere on how urban spaces are experienced and conceived in our data-driven society. It places particular emphasis on urban scale digital twins, which are virtual replicas of cities that are used to simulate environments and develop scenarios in response to policy problems. The article also investigates the shift from the technical to the socio-technical perspective within the field of smart cities. Despite the aspirations of urban scale digital twins (...) to enhance the participation of citizens in the decision-making processes relayed to urban planning strategies, the fact that they are based on a limited set of variables and processes makes them problematic. The article aims to shed light on the tension between the real and the ideal at stake during this process of abstracting sets of variables and processes in the case of urban scale digital twins. (shrink)

Water scarcity and inefficient water management are critical challenges for rapidly growing urban areas. Traditional water distribution systems often suffer from leaks, wastage, and inequitable access, exacerbating resource shortages. This paper explores how Artificial Intelligence (AI) and IoT technologies can optimize urban water management by enabling real-time monitoring, predictive maintenance, and efficient resource allocation. By integrating data from smart meters, pressure sensors, and weather forecasts, cities can reduce water losses, improve distribution efficiency, and ensure equitable access. Experimental results (...) demonstrate significant improvements in leak detection, water conservation, and infrastructure reliability, offering a sustainable blueprint for urban water management in smart cities. (shrink)

W ostatnich latach obserwujemy intensywną debatę publiczną dotyczącą implementacji koncepcji miast i gmin przyjaznych starzeniu się (age-friendly cities and communities) oraz jej nowszej i szerszej odsłony związanej z inteligentnymi i zdrowymi przestrzeniami przyjaznymi starzeniu się (smart healthy age-friendly environments, SHAFE). Rozdział koncentruje się na zwięzłym przeglądzie obejmującym te zagadnienia. W pierwszej części artykuł przybliża podstawowe pojęcia i wybrane działania Komisji Europejskiej w obszarze upowszechniania dialogu międzypokoleniowego oraz programowania polityk relacji międzypokoleniowych. Następnie zaprezentowano krótkie omówienia studiów przypadku dotyczące wybranych (...) projektów innowacji społecznych i metodyk mających na celu: (1) wzmocnienie pozycji facylitatorów koncepcji miast i gmin przyjaznych starzeniu się oraz inteligentnych, zdrowych i inkluzywnych przestrzeni; (2) ułatwienie obywatelom, szczególnie osobom starszym, radzenia sobie z sytuacjami kryzysowymi w obszarze zdrowia publicznego; oraz (3) wspieranie głosu seniorów i seniorek w podejmowaniu decyzji co do celów i zadań polityk publicznych (współprojektowanie), ich wdrażania (współzarządzanie, współrealizowanie/koprodukcja usług publicznych) oraz ich monitorowania i ewaluacji (współocena). Ostatnia część zawiera rekomendacje dla wybranych podmiotów odpowiedzialnych za politykę publiczną wobec starzenia się ludności oraz propozycje kierunków dalszych badań. (shrink)

Wireless Sensor Networks (WSNs) have become increasingly prevalent in various applications, ranging from environmental monitoring to smart cities. However, the limited energy resources of sensor nodes pose significant challenges in maintaining network longevity and data transmission efficiency. Duty-cycled WSNs, where sensor nodes alternate between active and sleep states to conserve energy, offer a solution to these challenges but introduce new complexities in data transmission. This paper presents an optimized approach to aggregated packet transmission in duty-cycled WSNs, utilizing advanced (...) optimization techniques to enhance energy efficiency, reduce latency, and improve network throughput. By aggregating data packets from multiple nodes before transmission, the proposed method minimizes the number of transmissions, thereby conserving energy. Optimization algorithms such as Genetic Algorithms (GA) and Particle Swarm Optimization (PSO) are employed to determine the optimal aggregation and transmission schedules, taking into account factors such as network topology, node energy levels, and data urgency. T. (shrink)

The introduction of 5G networks has brought forth a revolutionary shift in the capabilities of cloud services, especially with regard to low-latency applications and advanced network management techniques. 5G’s highspeed, low-latency, and massive connectivity features are particularly valuable for real-time applications, such as autonomous vehicles, industrial automation, augmented reality (AR), virtual reality (VR), and Internet of Things (IoT) ecosystems. Moreover, 5G enables network slicing, a technique that allows operators to create multiple virtual networks with customized performance characteristics within a single (...) physical network. This paper explores the synergy between 5G technology and cloud services, examining how 5G enables ultra-low-latency cloud applications, supports network slicing for diverse use cases, and enhances cloud service delivery across industries. We also discuss the challenges in implementing 5G-enabled cloud services, including technical, regulatory, and security issues. Finally, the paper forecasts the potential future of 5G-driven cloud services and their impact on emerging technologies such as smart cities, healthcare, and entertainmen. (shrink)

t: Wireless Sensor Networks (WSNs) have become increasingly prevalent in various applications, ranging from environmental monitoring to smart cities. However, the limited energy resources of sensor nodes pose significant challenges in maintaining network longevity and data transmission efficiency. Duty-cycled WSNs, where sensor nodes alternate between active and sleep states to conserve energy, offer a solution to these challenges but introduce new complexities in data transmission.

Among the main components of a smart city, the modern public space plays a vital and core role in the transition towards a friendly lifestyle. However, urban planning and design guidelines in many countries’ practices have radically transformed without cultural preservation purpose. Therefore, it is necessary to design public space with local cultural wisdom demonstrated as renewable criteria considered a sustainable public space solution for smart cities. This may improve places, increasing prosperity and extending expectations of modernization (...) in many cities. This article contributes to cultural preservation dynamism in public spaces. It explores how modernist approaches to planning and design along with cultural features shaped the quality of urban space. This study uses the Banjar culture in Banjarbaru City, Indonesia as a replanned city in a rapidly developing economy, but one where largely unusable public spaces have failed to meet people’s everyday needs and aspirations. The study was performed based on extensive literature reviews, documentary analyses, morphological surveys, photographic and qualitative surveys. In general, the integration of Banjar culture into modern public space provides a better promotion understanding of identity and friendly environmental quality. (shrink)

Internet of Things (IoT) devices have transformed various industries, enabling advanced functionalities across domains such as healthcare, smart cities, and industrial automation. However, the increasing number of connected devices has raised significant concerns regarding their security. IoT networks are highly vulnerable to a wide range of cyber threats, making Intrusion Detection Systems (IDS) critical for identifying and mitigating malicious activities. This paper proposes a hybrid approach for intrusion detection in IoT networks by combining Machine Learning (ML) techniques with (...) Signature-Based Methods. The hybrid model leverages the strengths of both methodologies to achieve high detection accuracy, reduced false positives, and the ability to identify both known and unknown threats. We explore the integration of ML classifiers such as Random Forest, Support Vector Machines, and k-Nearest Neighbors with traditional signature-based techniques to create a robust IDS solution. The effectiveness of the proposed approach is evaluated using a publicly available IoT dataset, demonstrating its capability to detect a wide variety of attacks with high precision and recall. (shrink)

The rapid advancement of urbanization has necessitated the creation of "smart cities," where information and communication technologies (ICT) are used to improve the quality of urban life. Central to the smart city paradigm is data integration—connecting disparate data sources from various urban systems, such as transportation, healthcare, utilities, and public safety. This paper explores the role of Artificial Intelligence (AI) in facilitating data integration within smart cities, focusing on how AI technologies can enable effective urban (...) governance. By examining the current landscape of data integration and AI in smart cities, we highlight key challenges, solutions, and future trends. We conclude that AI-driven data integration is essential for optimizing city operations, fostering sustainability, and enhancing decision-making for urban governance. This paper explores the role of Artificial Intelligence (AI) in facilitating data integration within smart cities, focusing on how AI technologies can enable effective urban governance. By examining the current landscape of data integration and AI in smart cities, we highlight key challenges, solutions, and future trends. We conclude that AI-driven data integration is essential for optimizing city operations, fostering sustainability, and enhancing decision-making for urban governance. (shrink)

Internet of Things (IoT) devices have transformed various industries, enabling advanced functionalities across domains such as healthcare, smart cities, and industrial automation. However, the increasing number of connected devices has raised significant concerns regarding their security. IoT networks are highly vulnerable to a wide range of cyber threats, making Intrusion Detection Systems (IDS) critical for identifying and mitigating malicious activities. This paper proposes a hybrid approach for intrusion detection in IoT networks by combining Machine Learning (ML) techniques with (...) Signature-Based Methods. The hybrid model leverages the strengths of both methodologies to achieve high detection accuracy, reduced false positives, and the ability to identify both known and unknown threats. We explore the integration of ML classifiers such as Random Forest, Support Vector Machines, and k-Nearest Neighbors with traditional signature-based techniques to create a robust IDS solution. The effectiveness of the proposed approach is evaluated using a publicly available IoT dataset, demonstrating its capability to detect a wide variety of attacks with high precision and recall. (shrink)

The Internet of Things (IoT) wireless LAN in healthcare has moved away from traditional methods that include hospital visits and continuous monitoring. The Internet of Things allows the use of certain means, including the detection, processing and transmission of physical and biomedical parameters. With powerful algorithms and intelligent systems, it will be available to provide unprecedented levels of critical data for real-time life that are collected and analyzed to guide people in research, management and emergency care. This chapter provides a (...) quick overview of IoT features and how they relate to wireless discovery and technology to deploy the medical applications you need. In the world, the revolution in any industry is to connect your products and devices to the Internet and make them independent and remotely connected, so that anyone can use and view them from anywhere and anytime. The Internet of Things provides us with a home automation system that uses smart devices to overcome this obstacle, allowing us to easily manage our appliances. A smart city is a vision to integrate a variety of information and communication solutions for residents with essential services, such as smart parking on all streets. The main motivation for using the Internet for parking objects is simply collecting data to get free parking. The IoT-based RTSSPS architecture is divided into three parts: a WSN-based smart street parking module, an IoT-based smart street parking module, and an IoT-based smart street parking module. IoT-based cloud with street parking algorithm, rating and future directions. (shrink)

The rapid advancement of urbanization has necessitated the creation of "smart cities," where information and communication technologies (ICT) are used to improve the quality of urban life. Central to the smart city paradigm is data integration—connecting disparate data sources from various urban systems, such as transportation, healthcare, utilities, and public safety. This paper explores the role of Artificial Intelligence (AI) in facilitating data integration within smart cities, focusing on how AI technologies can enable effective urban (...) governance. By examining the current landscape of data integration and AI in smart cities, we highlight key challenges, solutions, and future trends. We conclude that AI-driven data integration is essential for optimizing city operations, fostering sustainability, and enhancing decision-making for urban governance. This paper explores the role of Artificial Intelligence (AI) in facilitating data integration within smart cities, focusing on how AI technologies can enable effective urban governance. By examining the current landscape of data integration and AI in smart cities, we highlight key challenges, solutions, and future trends. We conclude that AI-driven data integration is essential for optimizing city operations, fostering sustainability, and enhancing decision-making for urban governance. (shrink)

Beyond Capitalism: Designing a New Economic System for Humanity -/- Introduction -/- For centuries, capitalism has been the dominant economic system, driving technological innovation, wealth creation, and global trade. However, its flaws—extreme inequality, environmental destruction, and economic instability—have made many question whether it is still the best model for humanity. Instead of reforming capitalism, perhaps the time has come to replace it entirely with a new system that better aligns with modern challenges, human well-being, and sustainability. -/- This essay explores (...) a new economic model that moves beyond capitalism and socialism, aiming for a system that is fair, sustainable, and technologically advanced. -/- Why Capitalism Must Be Replaced -/- Capitalism’s fundamental flaws make it unsustainable in the long run: -/- 1. Wealth Inequality and Economic Injustice -/- The richest 1% own more than half of the world’s wealth, while billions struggle in poverty. -/- The capitalist system prioritizes profits over people, leading to worker exploitation and economic instability. -/- 2. Environmental Collapse -/- Capitalism’s endless growth model is destroying the planet through deforestation, pollution, and climate change. -/- Corporations prioritize short-term profits over long-term sustainability. -/- 3. Automation and AI Disrupting Jobs -/- Millions of jobs are being replaced by artificial intelligence and automation. -/- The capitalist system does not account for a future where human labor is no longer essential. -/- 4. Psychological and Social Problems -/- Consumerism creates stress, anxiety, and social isolation by equating happiness with material wealth. -/- The fear of financial instability keeps people trapped in low-quality jobs and debt cycles. -/- Given these issues, capitalism is no longer fit for the future. A completely new economic system must be built—one that values sustainability, equality, and technology-driven efficiency. -/- Introducing a New Economic System: The Post-Capitalist Model -/- A new economic model must prioritize human well-being, technological efficiency, and ecological balance over profit. Below is a blueprint for a post-capitalist society. -/- 1. A Resource-Based Economy (RBE) -/- A Resource-Based Economy (RBE) is an economic model where all goods and services are freely available based on need, rather than money or trade. -/- Technology and AI manage resources efficiently, eliminating the need for money. -/- Automation handles labor, allowing people to pursue education, research, and creativity. -/- No private ownership of land or resources, only shared community access based on sustainability. -/- 2. Universal Basic Infrastructure (UBI 2.0) -/- Instead of just giving people money (UBI), a new system would provide universal basic needs, including: -/- Free housing, healthcare, education, food, and clean energy for all. -/- Advanced AI-driven logistics to distribute goods and services efficiently. -/- 3. Decentralized AI Governance -/- Rather than governments being controlled by corporations or corrupt politicians, AI and collective intelligence could ensure fair and transparent decision-making. -/- AI algorithms could optimize resource distribution, prevent waste, and eliminate financial corruption. -/- Direct democratic participation, where people vote on policies using secure blockchain systems. -/- 4. Sustainable, Circular Economy -/- Zero waste policies, where everything is recycled, reused, or repurposed. -/- Focus on degrowth—reducing unnecessary production while increasing quality of life. -/- Energy-efficient smart cities, where transportation, housing, and food production are automated. -/- 5. Post-Work Society: Emphasizing Purpose Over Jobs -/- In a post-capitalist economy, people would not be forced to work meaningless jobs just to survive. Instead: -/- People could focus on science, philosophy, arts, personal growth, and social well-being. -/- Education would be lifelong and freely available. -/- AI and robots would handle most labor, leaving humans free to explore their full potential. -/- How This System Would Solve Capitalism’s Problems -/- Challenges in Transitioning to a Post-Capitalist Economy -/- While this system solves capitalism’s biggest problems, transitioning away from capitalism would face major challenges: -/- 1. Resistance from the Wealthy Elite -/- Billionaires and corporations control most of the world’s resources and political systems. -/- They would fight to maintain power, delaying or sabotaging systemic change. -/- 2. Psychological and Cultural Shifts -/- People have been conditioned to associate money with survival and success. -/- A new system would require re-educating society on cooperation, sustainability, and shared abundance. -/- 3. Technology and Infrastructure Development -/- Large-scale AI, automation, and sustainable energy infrastructure would need global investment. -/- Governments and private companies must be convinced to prioritize long-term sustainability over short-term profit. -/- The Path Forward: Steps to Build a Post-Capitalist World -/- While the transition will not happen overnight, we can begin moving toward a post-capitalist future by taking the following steps: -/- 1. Implement Universal Basic Income (UBI) Now -/- Governments can start by providing a safety net while transitioning to a money-free economy. -/- Countries like Finland and Canada are already experimenting with UBI programs. -/- 2. Expand AI and Automation for Public Good -/- AI should be used to reduce labor burdens, not to enrich corporations. -/- Governments should invest in open-source AI that benefits all of society. -/- 3. Develop Smart Cities and Circular Economies -/- Cities should be designed for zero waste, renewable energy, and efficient transportation. -/- Governments must ban planned obsolescence and require full recycling of consumer products. -/- 4. Decentralize Power Using Blockchain and Direct Democracy -/- Blockchain voting systems can eliminate election fraud and political corruption. -/- AI-assisted governance can help make fair, data-driven policy decisions. -/- 5. Redefine Education and Human Purpose -/- Schools should move away from job training and focus on creativity, science, philosophy, and social intelligence. -/- Societies should emphasize happiness, purpose, and sustainability over financial success. -/- Conclusion: A New Civilization Beyond Capitalism -/- Capitalism was a necessary stage in human evolution, but it has outlived its usefulness. The future demands a system that is more intelligent, just, and sustainable—one where: ✅ No one is forced to work just to survive. ✅ Resources are managed intelligently, not wasted for profit. ✅ Technology is used for human well-being, not corporate greed. ✅ The planet is protected, not exploited. -/- This is not utopian fantasy—it is a logical step forward in human evolution. By combining AI, automation, decentralized governance, and sustainability, we can create a post-capitalist society where everyone thrives. -/- The question Is no longer “Should we replace capitalism?” The question is: “How soon can we build a better system before capitalism destroys us all?” -/- . (shrink)

Starting with a systemic understanding of cultural heritage, climate-change related urban transformation processes are analyzed through a multi-disciplinary lens and methods that blend the arts, humanities, and sciences. Governance-specific topics range from relevant cultural markers and local policies to stimulate resilience, to a typology of heritage-related governance and the vulnerability of historic urban landscapes. A variety of contributions from the Americas, Asia, and Europe describe and analyze challenges and potential solutions for climate-change related urban transformation and the role of cultural (...) heritage. Contributions focusing on innovation, adaptation, and reuse introduce the concept of urban acupuncture, adaptive reuse of industrial heritage, and how a historical spatial-functional network system can be related to a smart city approach. The potential role of cultural traditions for resilience is analyzed, as is the integration of sustainable energy production tools in a historic urban landscape. Examples of heritage-based urban resilience from around the world are introduced, as well as the path of medium-technology to address climate adaptation and prevention in historic buildings. The contributions emphasize the need for an updated narrative that cultural heritage can also contribute to climate adaptation and mitigation. (shrink)