bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Leveraging satellite and reanalysis air quality data for bottom-up approach in tackling air pollution in nigeria
Authors: Ogunjo Samuel , Rabiu Babatunde , Fuwape Ibiyinka
Published: March 2024

The failure of air pollution mitigation strategies at national levels can be attributed to the disconnect between policy makers and creators of this pollutants. This is not unconnected to lack of data at the smallest level of the society. Sparse air quality data in developing countries have hindered policy implementations for it’s reduction. There is the need to compensate for the sparse data using other sources. In this study, the performance of satellite (WashU) and reanalysis (CAMS) data was evaluated against two low cost sensors – Purple Air and Clarity devices, across several locations in Nigeria. Both models were found to perform fairly well during the wet season but poorly during the dry season. We developed correction factors to improve both satellite and reanalysis data over Nigeria. We further leverage on the corrected data to develop a bottom-up approach to tackle air pollution from the grassroots using a credit reward system. This will make every citizen part of the clean-up process while accelerating holistic and fair transitioning to a clean economy.
Sampling origins and directions affect the minimum sampling area in forest plots
Authors: He Chenqi
Published: March 2024

. Questions: The minimum sampling area (minimum area) is the smallest space that reflects species composition and characteristics of a plant community. The quantitative concept of minimum area is often estimated using species-area relationships (SARs) and has become the classical foundation for managing protected areas. However, sampling designs to determine the minimum area in different forest types have not been systematically evaluated.2. Location: China.3. Methods: We used tree census data from three forest dynamic plots, each with a size of 25–60 ha, in different climatic zones in China to determine the minimum areas of woody plants and to analyze the effects of species richness and topographic heterogeneity on the minimum areas by changing sampling origin and direction. 4. Results: We found that the sampling design mainly affects the estimation of woody plant species richness and required minimum area in different forest types. The estimated size of the minimum areas required were several hectares and varied significantly with sampling origin and direction, and showed a difference of approximately 1.5-2 times in the forest plots. Topographic heterogeneity significantly affected the minimum area through changes in species composition. 5. Conclusions: Sampling origin and direction should be considered when using SARs to estimate the minimum area and species diversity in communities. Such a comprehensive approach of sampling can contribute to a better understanding of vegetation characteristics and the minimum area required for a conservation census in heterogenous environments.
Ozone production sensitivity analysis for the Chengdu Plain Urban Agglomeration based on a muti-site and two-episode observation
Authors: Zhou Ming , Liu Yuhan , Lu Keding
Published: March 2024

Chengdu Plain Urban Agglomeration (CPUA) is one of the most serious areas of ozone pollution in China. A comprehensive field experiment focused on the ozone episode characteristics, and temporal and spatial variations of ozone production rate was conducted at CPUA in the summer of 2019. Six sampling sites were set and two ozone pollution episodes were recognized. The daily maximum 8-h average (MDA8) O3 concentration reached 137.9 ppbv in the urban sites during the ozone episode. The high concentration of O3 was closely related to intense solar radiation, high temperatures, and precursor emissions. Based on the calculation of OBM, the OH-HO2-RO2 radical chemistry and ozone production rate (P(O3)) was analyzed. The OH daily maximum is in the range of 3-13×106 molecules cm−3, and HO2 and RO2 are in the range of 2–14×108 molecules cm−3 during ozone episodes, varying by the location of sites. During ozone episode, the average maximum of P(O3) in suburb sites (about 30 ppb h-1.) were compared with urban sites, while the maximum of P(O3) was 18 ppb h-1 in rural sites. The relative incremental reactivity (RIR) and empirical kinetic modeling approach (EKMA) results demonstrate that centered on the urban area of Chengdu, where it was a VOC-limited regime, the northern and southern suburban area was transition region. In the remote rural area of the southern CPUA, it was highly NOx-limited. Local ozone production driven by the photochemical process is important for CPUA. The geographically differentiated recognition of the ozone regime found by this study can help to tailor control strategies for local conditions and avoid the negative effects of a one-size-fits-all approach.
Equatorial Plasma Density Irregularities Observed by Advanced Ionospheric Probe Onboard FORMOSAT-5 Satellite
Authors: Chao Chi-Kuang
Published: March 2024

A FORMOSAT-5 satellite was launched on 25 August 2017 CST into a 98.28° inclination sun-synchronous circular orbit at 720 km altitude along the 1030/2230 local time sectors.  Advanced Ionospheric Probe (AIP), a piggyback science payload developed by National Central University for the FORMOSAT-5 satellite, has measured in-situ ionospheric plasma concentrations at a 1,024 Hz sampling rate over a wide range of spatial scales for more than 6 years.  In this poster, global plasma density irregularities in the pre-midnight sector had been seasonally selected from FORMOSAT-5/AIP data during 2018 to 2023.  Yearly variations of these irregularity patterns with solar cycle could be clearly observed.
Astronomical forcing and sedimentary noise modeling of lake-level changes in the Middle Eocene Chezhen Sag, Bohai Bay Basin, eastern China
Authors: Luan Xuwei , Zhang Jinliang
Published: March 2024

The pacing of the global climate system by orbital variations is clearly demonstrated in the timing of e.g. glacial-interglacial cycles. However, due to the complexity and internal nonlinearity of the Earth’s climate system, the mechanisms that translate this forcing into geoarchives and climate changes continue to be debated. A 609-m-thick, continuous lacustrine mudstone and sandstone succession in Chezhen Sag (eastern China) provides an ideal middle Eocene sedimentary record for establishing a high-resolution stratigraphic chronology framework. Based on spectrum analysis and sliding window spectrum analysis of the natural gamma (GR) logging data of well Che 271 (C271) in Chezhen Sag, the periods of 405 kyr and 40.1 kyr were filtered by a Gaussian bandpass filter, and a “floating”astrochronological time scale (ATS) was established. The total number of 405 kyr eccentricity cycles were 13.6 and 40.1 kyr obliquity cycles were 138 which recorded from the upper member 4 (Es4U) to the member 3 (Es3) of the Eocene Shahejie Formation, and the depositional duration was 5.53 Myr. Correlation Coefficient (COCO) analysis and evolutionary Correlation Coefficient (eCoCo) analysis found that the optimal sedimentary rate of different strata. Sedimentary noise simulation revealed the history of paleolake water changes in the Middle Eocene in the Chezhen Sag, according to which four sequences are divided. The study show that the lake level change of Chezhen Sag in the middle Eocene shows prominent 1.2 Myr cycles and an antiphase well-coupled relationship with obliquity modulation. Finally, we propose a model to explain the relationship between orbital cycle and lake level change in continental lake basin. When the obliquity of the earth increases, the middle and high latitudes of the earth will be closer to the sun, the direct sunlight will be higher, and the meridional sunshine will increase, thus accelerating the evaporation process of lake basin water. When the seasonal changes are obvious (Maximum period of 1.2 Myr ultra-long obliquity), this effect is more significant. Our results strengthen knowledge of the connection of Myr-scale lake-level variations to astronomically induced climate change during the middle Eocene under obliquity forcing.
Simulation of the atmospheric Acoustic-gravity waves caused by a finite fault
Authors: Li Ting , Gao Yongxin
Published: March 2024

Based on the stratified lithosphere-atmosphere model, we present a semi-analytic method for calculating acoustic-gravity waves (AGWs) excited by a finite fault in the lithosphere. A finite fault is decomposed into a series of small subfaults, each treated as a point source with distinct rupture times. The fault is assumed to slide uniformly at a constant velocity along a specific direction. Simulation results reveal that both sides of the fault generate two types of AGWs when the fault rupture initiates and ceases. One type is the head AGW, generated by the P and Rayleigh waves propagating along the surface. The other one is the epicenter AGW, produced by direct seismic waves. The propagation of the AGWs is directional and related to the fault mechanism. We investigated a vertical strike-slip fault and a thrust fault, finding that the velocity amplitudes of the AGWs caused by both types of faults along the rupture direction are larger than the opposite direction. The AGWs induced by the thrust fault are stronger than those caused by the strike-slip fault. Furthermore, variations in the rupture velocity result in differences in waveform.
Deterioration laws of weak interlayers on slopes during wetting-drying cycles
Authors: Zheng Da , Liu Jiangfan , Zhou Hongke
Published: March 2024

Weak interlayers in reservoir slopes can significantly impact the construction and operation of hydropower projects. Considering the existence of multiple weak interlayers facing outward on the slope within the left bank slope of Caiziba pumped storage plant located in Fengjie, Chongqing, there is an urgent need to identify the effects of high-frequency, rapid, and cyclic water level changes on its stability. The study involved creating a geological model and using 3D laser scanning and 3D printing technology to prepare several groups of weak interlayers with varying roughness. Shear tests were conducted under natural and fully wet conditions to investigate the strength deterioration of weak interlayers with different roughness after multiple wetting-drying cycles. The results were verified through numerical simulation. The results indicate that the shear strength increases with the roughness of the weak interlayer under the same number of cycles. Additionally, the residual curve stepwise decreases with an increase in the number of cycles. When the roughness remains constant but the number of cycles is different, an exponential decrease in the shear strength of the interlayer occurs with an increase in the number of cycles. The impact of the number of wetting-drying cycles on the strength gradually weakens. After six cycles, the shear strength decreases by 90% and stabilizes at a value that is positively correlated with the roughness. Multiple wetting-drying cycles significantly impact the strength of the weak interlayer and the slope stability in the reservoir area. This study summarizes the deterioration law, which can serve as an important reference for analyzing the slope stability in similar projects.
Revisiting the Ultra-Violet Absorption Cross Section of Gaseous Nitrous Acid (HONO): New Insights for Atmospheric HONO Budget
Authors: Li Xuan , Dong Huabin , Lu Keding , Zhang Yuanhang
Published: March 2024

Nitrous acid (HONO) is an important source of hydroxyl radicals (OH) in the atmosphere. Precise determination of the absolute ultra-violet (UV) absorption cross-section of gaseous HONO lays the basis for the accurate measurement of its concentration by optical methods and the estimation of HONO loss rate through photolysis. We performed a series of laboratory and field intercomparison experiments for HONO measurement between striping coil-liquid waveguide capillary cell (SC-LWCC) photometer and incoherent broadband cavity-enhanced absorption spectroscopy (IBBCEAS). Specified HONO concentrations prepared by an ultra-pure standard HONO source were utilized for laboratory intercomparisons. Results shows a consistent ~22% negative bias in measurements of the IBBCEAS compared with SC-LWCC photometer. It is confirmed that the discrepancies occurring between these techniques are associated with the overestimation in the absolute UV absorption cross-sections through careful analysis of possible uncertainties. We quantified the absorption cross-section of gaseous HONO (360-390nm) utilizing a custom-built IBBCEAS instrument, and the results was found to be 22%-34% lower than the previously published absorption cross-sections widely used in HONO concentration retrieval and atmospheric chemical transport models (CTMs). This suggests that the HONO concentrations retrieved by optical methods based on absolute absorption cross-sections may have been underestimated by over 20%. Plus, the daytime loss rate and unidentified sources of HONO may also have evidently been overestimated in pre-existing studies. In summary, our findings underscore the significance of revisiting the absolute absorption cross-section of HONO and the re-evaluation of the previously reported HONO budgets.
Monazite and xenotime U-Pb geochronology constraints on the genesis of the Paleoproterozoic Yuanjiacun banded iron formation-hosted high-grade hematite ores of the North China craton
Authors: Meng Jie , Li Li-xing
Published: March 2024

High-grade hematite mineralization is widely developed in banded iron formations (BIFs) worldwide. However, in the North China craton where Neoarchean-Paleoproterozoic BIFs are abundant, economic high-grade hematite ores are scarce. High-grade hematite ores hosted in the Paleoproterozoic Yuanjiacun BIFs represent the largest occurrence of this type of ore in the North China craton. It was once viewed that the lack of high-grade hematite ores in the North China was due to the lack of prolonged epigenetic weathering-leaching conditions, but that could not explain the fault-controlled characteristics of high-grade hematite orebodies in Yuanjiacun. On the basis of field contact relationship, petrological and mineralogy analysis, the in-situ U-Pb dating of monazite and xenotime and the fluid inclusion analysis of quartz intergown with hematite was both carried out. The results show that, the timing of high-grade hematite mineralization was at 1.41 to 1.34 Ga, revealing that the deposition of hematite was probably related to tectonic extension in the North China craton related to the breakup of the Columbia/Nuna supercontinent. Petrography and microthermometry of primary fluid inclusion assemblages indicate that the high-grade hematite ore formed from hot (313°–370°C), CO2-rich, and highly saline (about 20 wt % NaCl equiv) hydrothermal fluids. These fluids channeled along faults, which concentrated iron through interaction with the BIFs—a process similar to typical hematite mineralization elsewhere. By comparing to the typical iron deposits worldwide, and combining with the views of the predecessors, we argue that the high-grade hematite ores formed in lower metamorphic-grade BIFs at shallower depths than magnetite mineralization and was largely eroded during later exhumation and uplift of the craton. The determination of ore genesis of the Yuanjiacun high-grade hematite ores  is of theoretical and practical significance to enriching the mineralization process of high-grade iron ores and futher prospecting exploration for high-grade iron ores in the Yuanjiacun area.
Impact of mineral dust photocatalytic heterogeneous chemistry on the formation of the sulfate and nitrate: A modelling study over East Asia
Authors: Li Xiao , Yu Zechen , Yue Man , Liu Yaman , Huang Kan , Chi Xuguang , Nie Wei , Ding Aijun , Dong Xinyi , Wang Minghuai
Published: March 2024

Dust heterogeneous chemistry plays an important role in the atmosphere and has significant effects on climate and the environment. However, the traditional modelling method treats heterogeneous chemistry as pseudo-first-order reactions, which retains significant uncertainties, hindering the accurate prediction of secondary inorganic aerosols. In contrast, the actual dust heterogeneous chemistry involves complex multiphase reactions, including partition between gas- and dust-phase, and reactions on the dust surface. In this study, we implement a photocatalytic mechanism into the GEOS-Chem model and apply it to investigate the impact on atmospheric chemistry during a dust storm over East Asia during April 9-14th, 2018.With the photocatalytic heterogeneous chemistry (PHO), model simulation better reproduces observed sulfate and nitrate concentrations than those with the traditional pseudo-first-order mechanism (TDT) or without any dust heterogeneous chemistry at all (BASE). As validated against observations, normalized mean bias (NMB) in PHO reduces substantially compared to TDT, from -61.65% and 103.38% to -2.19% and 6.83% at Nanjing and Shanghai, respectively. The model also accurately simulates gaseous precursors such as SO2 and NO2, as evidenced by a decline in NMB from 103.38% and 81.80% to 6.83% and 6.64% at the two sites, respectively. Furthermore, our analysis indicates that the larger dry deposition velocity of dust-phase sulfate and higher sulfate concentrations simulated by PHO jointly lead to a significant increase in SO4 dry deposition flux, demonstrating that the dust heterogeneous chemical process facilitates the removal of aerosol pollutants during dust events. These findings reinforce the need for enhancing the representation of dust heterogeneous chemistry in atmospheric models, underlining the criticality of this factor in accurate predictive modelling and environmental impact studies.
Top-down effects of crust-eating macro-arthropods on biocrust microtopography and carbon cycling
Authors: Sagi Nevo , Sagy Amir , Felde Vincent , Hawlena Dror
Published: March 2024

Biological soil crusts (biocrusts) are key regulators of soil C and N cycling, soil erosion, and water (re)distribution in drylands. Nevertheless, huge knowledge gaps exist about one core aspect of biocrust ecology, namely how these processes are affected by biocrust-eating macro-arthropods. We addressed this knowledge gap by exposing biocrusts to varying levels of isopod crustivory (i.e. grazing intensity), and quantifying the consequences for CO2 efflux, C fixation and microtopography. Biocrust CO2 efflux decreased with increasing crustivory and recovered after several wetting events. Crustivory had a negative effect on biocrust C fixation, but only after the CO2 efflux recovered to pre-crustivory levels. Biocrust surface roughness increased with increasing crustivory to a peak and then began to decrease, implying that varying levels of crustivory may have opposing consequences for water infiltration and runoff generation. Our findings suggest that macro-crustivores may play a key role in regulating biocrust ecological functioning, introducing a whole new line of crustivory research that will be instrumental in conceptualizing various ecosystem dynamics in drylands.
Deglacial North Eastern Atlantic Oxygen Minimum Zone changes registered by Benthic foraminifera
Authors: Barragán Montilla Sofía , Reyes Macaya Dharma A.
Published: March 2024

The eastern north Atlantic hosts a volumetrically important oxygen minimum zone (OMZ) influenced by the subtropical ocean circulation in the area and the upwelling off NW Africa. Ocean warming related to the increase in greenhouse gases and coastal eutrophication due to anthropogenic activity, leads to ocean deoxygenation and OMZs expansion. This makes relevant to study of the north Atlantic middle depth variability analogs in past climate change scenarios, to understand the future of the north Atlantic OMZ. During this study, we used benthic foraminifera from site GeoB9512-5 (793 m water depth) off NW Africa to reconstruct the bottom water oxygen concentration changes in the north Atlantic OMZ during the last 27,000 years. This high-resolution record registered an enhanced OMZ during the Bølling–Allerød (B-A) and Holocene that declined during the Heinrich Stadial 1 (HS1) and Younger Dryas (YD). These shifts are related to changes in bottom water ventilation and organic matter concentrations during the last deglaciation. Low benthic foraminifera diversity is synchronous with the oxygen decline of the B-A and Holocene, and benthic foraminifera assemblages show relevant changes consistent with these oxygenation shifts seen in our site. We provide new evidence of potential north Atlantic OMZ expansion in times of reduced bottom water ventilation during the B-A and Holocene times. This changes were driven by the shifts in the subtropical circulation during the last deglaciation registered in previous studies, and are relevant for understanding the future of OMZs in a climate change scenario and its possible consequences for marine biodiversity.
Near-surface meteorology changes driven by aerosol effects during the April 2020 wildfires in the Chornobyl Exclusion Zone, Ukraine
Authors: Savenets Mykhailo , Mahura Alexander , Nuterman Roman , Petäjä Tuukka
Published: March 2024

Wildfires, while disastrous for ecosystems, also contribute significantly to pollution impacting human health. They also affect meteorological conditions at both local and regional scales by emitting aerosols into the atmosphere, which have both direct and indirect effects. In Ukraine, forest fires are common in the spring, coinciding with the season of agricultural open burning.The wildfire episode in April 2020 was among the most severe and especially difficult to extinguish because of its origin and spreading in the abandoned Chornobyl Exclusion Zone (CEZ). Applying the seamless online-integrated Enviro-HIRLAM modeling system, we aimed to study aerosol contamination and how its elevated levels affected regional near-surface meteorology. To achieve this, the model was run in 4 modes: reference (REF) run and runs to simulate direct (DAE), indirect (IDAE) and combined (COMB) aerosol effects. These runs were performed at 15 km horizontal resolution (covering large European territory to consider atmospheric circulation) with downscaling to 5 (focusing on Ukraine) and 2 km (focusing on the CEZ).Elevated black and organic carbon content accounted for 80% of all aerosol species with the prevailing mass concentration in the accumulation mode in the CEZ. The observed meteorology, driven by aerosol effects, was more intensified in these synoptic conditions, and especially at the edges of the fronts. When aerosol effects were included, the wind speed changed up to ±4 m/s and caused spatial shifts in patterns of cloudiness and precipitation. Moreover, verification showed better results for modelling with IDAE, whereas DAE effects can overestimate changes in near-surface meteorology. This aerosol composition led to noticeable cooling and drying effects. The 2-m air temperature decreased by 3℃ and a specific humidity dropped by 1 g/kg at a local scale. However, these effects varied with atmospheric conditions. In particular, when fronts, especially cold fronts, passed through the CEZ, stronger changes in meteorological parameters were observed as expected. As presence of aerosols influences a humidity regime in the boundary layer (including formation and development of cloudiness and precipitation), the spatial positioning of modeled fronts may be shifted leading to changes of opposite signs.This study was supported by the grant of HPC-Europa3 Transnational Access Programme for projects “Integrated modelling for assessment of potential pollution regional atmospheric transport as result of accidental wildfires” (IMA-WFires, HPC17TRLGW) & “Research and development for integrated meteorology – atmospheric composition multi-scales and – processes modelling” (Enviro-PEEX(Plus) on ECMWF; SPFIMAHU-2021). The CSC – IT Center for Science Computing (Finland) is acknowledged for computational resources.
Differential adsorption of clay minerals: Implications for organic matter enrichment
Authors: Zhao Tongxu , Xu Shang , Gou Qiyang
Published: March 2024

The interactions between clay minerals and organic matter, specifically adsorption, are widely recognized as a crucial mechanism for promoting the preservation of organic matter within sedimentary environments. This paper discusses the genesis and adsorption of clay minerals, especially their influence on the process of organic matter enrichment in sedimentary environments. The composition of clay minerals found in sediments serves as an indicator of both the climatic and lithological characteristics of the provenance area. Smectite formation is favored in mafic provenance, while the coexistence of illite and chlorite suggests cold and arid conditions. Additionally, an abundance of kaolinite indicates intense chemical weathering of the provenance area. The physical and chemical properties of clay minerals and organic matter significantly influence adsorption. Smectite is thought to adsorb more organic matter due to its greater surface area. Selective adsorption of high molecular weight, aromatic, and aliphatic compounds dissolved organic matter onto mineral surfaces may have played a role in kerogen formation. Moreover, the preservation of organic matter via clay mineral adsorption is intricately linked to the sedimentary environment. Disparities in nutrient elements during the clay minerals synsedimentary period can impact biological productivity. Furthermore, the pH and solution metal ions of the water column influence the quantity and type of organic matter adsorbed. The contribution of adsorption to organic matter preservation is influenced by redox conditions, and this contribution can be observed through density separations. Additionally, we present several recommendations for future research. Firstly, diagenesis alters the clay mineral assemblage in sedimentary rocks. However, it may be possible to reconstruct the clay mineral assemblage based on morphological, mineralogical, and chemical composition characteristics. Secondly, studies have indicated that clay minerals can facilitate the precipitation of carbonate minerals, providing insights into the formation of abiotic carbonate minerals. Finally, the practical applications of clay minerals in shale oil and gas exploration are underscored, such as their ability to predict sweet-spot areas and control reservoir properties.
Preparation of New Copper Smelting Slag-based Mine Backfill Material and Investigation of its Mechanical Properties
Authors: Jiang Minggui , Sun Wei , Lu Kaifang , Gao Tong
Published: March 2024

The stockpiling of copper smelting slag (CSS) has broken the ecological environment of the mining area, and the resource utilization of CSS is an urgent requirement to promote ecological sustainable development. The optimal cementitious material ratio determines as 69:15:6:2:8 for CSS: cement clinker (CC): gypsum powder (GP):NaOH: slaked lime (SL) by analyzing the physical and chemical properties of CSS and the uniaxial compressive strengths (UCS) at 3d, 7d and 28d curing ages investigate. The uniaxial compressive strengths reached 3.55 MPa, 9.48 MPa, and 32.43 MPa. In the meantime, XRF, XRD, EDS, and SEM microscopic analysis of the prepared gelling material specimens explored the hydration products and microstructural changes of the backfill gelling system and revealed the hydration mechanism of the gelling system and the strength formation mechanism of the specimens. The results of the experimental study showed that the strength of the specimens at different maintenance ages was subject to different significance arrangements of the factors. Based on the optimized ratio of composite cementitious materials, the 28d UCS of the filler prepared by synergistic tailing sand reaches 3.88 MPa, which can meet the jksg of partial mine filler mining. Applying copper smelting slag-based gelling backfill materials (CSSM) at mine sites reduces backfill costs while effectively reducing solid waste emissions, thereby protecting the environment and promoting the realization of waste-free mines and green mining.
Alterations of urban greenspace and heat stress risk during Hanoi's Master Plan 2030 implementation
Authors: Liou Yuei-An , Nguyen Kim-Anh , Tran Duy-Phien
Published: March 2024

Hanoi City has experienced a remarkable transformation due to implementing Hanoi's Master Plan 2030, which brought forth numerous challenges, notably in preserving urban green space (UGS). The objectives of this work are to (1) explore the changes in UGS distribution, (2) identify areas prone to heat stress by examining abnormal land surface temperature (LST) distributions in conjunction with population vulnerability, and (3) suggest solutions through an advanced UGS management platform. To investigate the UGS changes, we utilized Sentinel-2 satellite images, while the assessment of heat stress risk involved extracting LST data from the thermal infrared band of Landsat 8. Our research was concentrated on the inner region of Hanoi City, tracking UGS alterations from October 2016 to October 2018. The study's evaluation involved utilizing Google Earth images and conducting on-site research.The results demonstrated a significant decline in woodland and shrubland, decreasing by 1.3% and 4.4%, respectively, while grass cover experienced a growth of 2.4%. Our land cover classification exhibited high accuracy, reaching 96% in 2018 and 88% in 2016. Furthermore, this work unveiled a heightened risk primarily focused in the central inner-city zones, marked by densely populous residential regions and extensive built-up environments. Given that air temperature (Ta) significantly affects human health compared to LST, our forthcoming research will incorporate a spatially continuous Ta dataset to delve deeper into studying heat stress risks. This Ta dataset will be generated through our advanced Ta estimation framework employing Machine Learning algorithms, which have demonstrated exceptional performance. Identifying the heat stress risk patterns is essential, as this draws the attention of city planners, governing bodies, and healthcare institutions.
Effect of topsoil dilution on stabilization of plant derived carbon
Authors: Holz Maire , Salzmann Bryan , Remus Rainer , Pusch Valerie , Mundschenk Eva , Hoffmann Mathias , Augustin Jürgen
Published: March 2024

Soil tillage often results in tillage erosion in hilly croplands, i.e. to subsoil incorporation into topsoil. However, up to now effect of tillage erosion on the turnover and stabilization of freshly added plant material remains poorly understood. We therefore conducted an incubation experiment comparing topsoil, diluted topsoil and subsoil from an erosion effected field site in north-east Germany. (14)CO2 respiration was traced over a period of 33 days after addition of 14C labelled plant residues and (14)C incorporation into several C fractions was studied. The topsoil showed increased C turnover compared to subsoil, however, topsoil dilution resulted in slightly higher C fluxes than in the topsoil, indicative of a more diverse microbial community. The addition of plant residues induced increased decomposition of native soil organic matter, resulting in a priming effect of similar magnitudes in all treatments ranging around 20%. This indicated that C might not be preferentially stabilized in the studied diluted topsoils or in the subsoil. In terms of carbon fractionation, topsoil dilution primarily affected the POM and MAOM (< 20 µm) fractions, with a decline in the order of topsoil > diluted > subsoil. Freshly assimilated carbon was preferentially stabilized in the MAOM fraction (
A Physics-Driven Spectroscopic Approach for Rapid Estimation of the Soil Water Retention Curve
Authors: Norouzi Sarem , Sadeghi Morteza , Tuller Markus , Ebrahimian Hamed , Liaghat Abdolmajid , Jones Scott B. , de Jonge Lis W.
Published: March 2024

The knowledge about soil hydraulic properties (i.e., water retention and hydraulic conductivity characteristics) is of relevance for accurate determination of land surface fluxes. Yet, the laborious and time-consuming process of measuring the soil water retention curve (SWRC) with conventional laboratory methods poses a challenge. In addition, the measured soil water content and matric potential pairs obtained with standard methods are often fragmentary and consist of only a limited number of measurements across the desired soil water content range. Proximal and remote sensing methods are rapid and cost-efficient alternatives to quantify soil attributes across different scales. However, past studies that centered around proximal and remote sensing of soil hydraulic functions mainly rely on statistical relationships and a physically-based method is still lacking. In this presentation, we introduce an innovative physics-based laboratory method that allows the direct estimation of the complete SWRC across the entire range from saturated to dry conditions. The inputs to the model include measured data pairs of soil water content and reflectance within the shortwave infrared domain. The fundamental hypothesis behind the new method is that the soil reflectance spectra are a function of both soil water content and the pore scale distribution of capillary and adsorbed soil water. The performance of the proposed model was evaluated for 21 soils that vastly differ in physical and hydraulic properties. The RMSE and R-squared between retrieved and measured water contents at various matric potentials were found to be 0.03 m³ m⁻³ and 0.96, respectively, indicating the good performance of the proposed method. The results suggest that the new method is a rapid and efficient alternative to established laboratory measurement methods.
Integrated Heat Health Information System and Spatial Computing of heat inequalities for Sustainable Development 
Authors: Kumar Deepak , P. Bassill Nick
Published: March 2024

Reducing heat inequities with the Integrated Heat Health Information System (NIHHIS) and spatial computing has helped communities achieve sustainable development. Extreme heat events, particularly in metropolitan areas, threaten public health and well-being as climate change intensifies. This abstract describes the Integrated Heat Health Information System and how spatial computing can evaluate and manage heat inequities to promote sustainable development and climate resilience in communities.  To quantify and communicate high heat risks, the Integrated Heat Health Information System (NIHHIS) incorporates meteorological data, health data, and social vulnerability factors. Public health workers and policymakers can utilize NIHHIS to identify locations at risk of heat-related illnesses and develop focused initiatives to protect them. This method aids in evidence-based decision-making and heat wave preparedness. Spatial computing, including GIS and remote sensing, can observe, model, and explain community heat differences. Researchers can locate heat hotspots, measure heat exposure patterns, and evaluate cooling interventions using spatial computing. This data-driven method identifies places where sustainable development actions are needed most to reduce heat inequities. In sustainable development, NIHHIS and spatial computing enable a holistic understanding of the complicated interaction between heat, health, and socio-economic issues. Policymakers can improve public health and climate resilience in vulnerable communities by understanding these links. To reduce the urban heat island effect and improve community well-being, green infrastructure initiatives, including urban blue-green spaces, cool roofs, and energy-efficient buildings, can be carefully deployed. Community engagement and participation are also crucial to sustainable development. Residents can prepare for heat events with the NIHHIS and spatial computing tools. Social cohesion, social support, and fair cooling resource access can be promoted through community-based programs. Spatial computing and the Integrated Heat Health Information System (NIHHIS) can transform community heat inequities and sustainable development. These tools allow politicians, urban planners, and public health authorities to make informed decisions to improve climate resilience, protect vulnerable populations, and promote better and more sustainable living environments for all. This multidisciplinary approach is essential to creating adaptive and resilient communities ready to face a warming planet.
Capability of regional climate models to reproduce three-dimensional (3D) characteristics of heat waves
Authors: Lhotka Ondřej , Plavcová Eva , Kyselý Jan
Published: March 2024

In this study, we evaluate capabilities of 9 CORDEX regional climate models (RCMs) with lateral boundary conditions provided by the ERA-Interim reanalysis to reproduce three-dimensional (3D) structures of heat waves in several European regions in the 1989–2008 period. Heat waves are defined based on positive temperature anomalies from the 95th percentile in near-surface, 850 hPa, and 500 hPa levels with temporal and spatial criteria imposed. Based on predominant locations of positive temperature anomalies, heat waves are classified into four types: i) near-surface, ii) lower-tropospheric, iii) higher-tropospheric, and iv) omnipresent. Characteristics of individual types (e.g. frequency, severity, typical length and occurrence within a summer season) are evaluated against the ERA5 reanalysis. We show contrasting patterns among individual RCMs, pointing to different roles of processes governing heat waves across these simulations.    
Cloud electrification in the ICON NWP model 
Authors: Popová Jana , Sokol Zbynek
Published: March 2024

We implemented a cloud electrification submodel into the ICON NWP model. The implementation is done for two moment cloud microphysics and consists in modelling of charge concentrations of six hydrometeors (cloud water, rain, snow, ice, graupel and hail) and modelling of density of positive and negative ions. Concentration of ions is calculated by ion equation. The development of hydrometeors driven by the two moment cloud microphysics is reflected in the changes of electric charges of the hydrometeors and the number of positive and negative ions. It is assumed that the charge is evenly distributed in the mass of a hydrometeor and that the change in the mass of the hydrometeor leads to a corresponding change in the charge concentration of the hydrometeors. In the case of evaporation or sublimation, an increase in water vapor, at the expense of the mass of hydrometeors, is accompanied by increase in the number of ions. The charge separation is based on Takahashi’s data. At the conference, we will present our results of simulations of idealized convective storms.  
Reducing Transition Risks: A Life Cycle Assessment Approach to Residential Buildings with Integrated Sustainable Framework
Authors: Wang YuShan , Tung ChingPin
Published: March 2024

This essay navigates the critical juncture of climate change mitigation and sustainable construction practices, employing a comprehensive analytical framework centered on the robust incorporation of a Life Cycle Assessment (LCA). The exploration is rooted in a profound understanding of the construction industry's substantial contribution, amounting to 38% of global emissions, with a specific emphasis on residential buildings and their consequential carbon footprint.The advocacy for the implementation of a standardized carbon inventory and a meticulously defined system boundary constitutes a foundational aspect of this analysis. This endeavor draws upon well-established ISO standards, simultaneously subjecting the widely acknowledged LEED V4.1 to a comprehensive and rigorous critical examination. The utilization of precise carbon calculations, facilitated by sophisticated regression formulas, emerges as a pivotal tool, enabling the identification of salient life cycle hotspots within the construction sector. In advancing a proactive approach to carbon reduction, this essay delves into historical trends and introduces an institutional management framework, covering GRESB and SDGs. This multifaceted strategy not only addresses immediate challenges but strategically positions organizations within the construction industry to thrive. It adeptly navigates transition risks and seamlessly integrates sustainable practices, thus fostering a transformative paradigm within the sector. Within the specific context of Taiwan, where the majority of green buildings align with the widely accepted LEED system, the mission is unequivocal. The objective is to augment the LEED framework through the judicious incorporation of a tailored life cycle assessment that is attuned to the unique needs of the Taiwanese construction landscape. The overarching goal remains the establishment of an equitable, transparent, and easily comprehensible system, not only to present opportunities but also to effectively mitigate risks for construction companies.The essay underscores the imperative of ensuring that buildings actively contribute to communities and the environment. This initiative aligns harmoniously with the ambitious target of achieving net-zero emissions by 2050, thereby engendering a positive and enduring impact for both present and future generations. The transformative narrative presented in this exploration emphasizes the pivotal role of sustainable construction practices in reshaping the trajectory of the construction industry towards a resilient and environmentally conscious future.
Flash Drought Impacts on Ecosystems: Insights on Resistance and Resilience
Authors: Rahim Akif , Markonis Yannis , Dutt Riya
Published: March 2024

Flash droughts are characterized by their rapid onset and the potential to severely impact on ecosystems. Despite some existing research on the ecological impacts of flash droughts, particularly in regions like the USA and China, a comprehensive understanding of their impact on the ecosystems of Europe is lacking. This study aims to fill this gap by exploring ecosystem resistance and resilience to flash droughts in Central Europe from 2000 to 2020. We utilize diverse observational data, including indicators such as gross primary production (GPP) and soil moisture. Our findings indicate that shallow-rooted ecosystems, such as grasslands and agricultural crops, exhibit low resistance and limited resilience to flash droughts, while woody ecosystems like forests demonstrate higher resistance. However, all ecosystems, including forests, remain vulnerable to extended or recurrent flash drought events. These results underscore the urgency of implementing essential drought mitigation measures to ensure the sustainability of ecosystems.
Investigation of mineral dissolution kinetics through Atomic Force Microscopy
Authors: Recalcati Chiara , Siena Martina , Riva Monica , Bollani Monica , Guadagnini Alberto
Published: March 2024

We illustrate an experimental platform grounded on Atomic Force Microscopy (AFM) imaging enabling one to evaluate nanometer-scale absolute material fluxes across a mineral surface subject to precipitation/dissolution reaction under continuous flow. Reactive phenomena of this kind taking place at the solid-fluid interface have a pivotal role in driving alterations of the fundamental properties of natural geologic systems (including, e.g., porosity, permeability, and storage capacity). High resolution experimental observations document that several kinetic processes contribute to the overall reaction. These, in turn, yield a markedly heterogeneous distribution of reaction rates. The latter cannot be characterized through average rate values. Current challenges limiting our ability to characterize such heterogeneity include the establishment of a reliable integrated experimental platform that allows employing AFM imaging to evaluate real-time and in situ absolute material fluxes across the mineral surface. These can then be employed to enrich and expand typical analyses of the evolution of surface morphology. We overcome these barriers and provide spatial distributions of rates observed at the nanoscale across the surface of a calcite crystal subject to dissolution. We then interpret experimental observations through a stochastic approach. The latter is designed to embed the action of diverse kinetic modes corresponding to different mechanistic processes taking place across the surface and driving the spatial heterogeneity of the reaction.
Aerobic scope mapping of an invasive fish species in a global warming scenario
Authors: Quattrocchi Giovanni , Christensen Emil , Sinerchia Matteo , Marras Stefano , Cucco Andrea , Domenici Paolo , Behrens Jane W.
Published: March 2024

The aerobic metabolic scope (AMS) of marine ectotherms, a measure of their energetic potential in relation to environmental conditions, can be adopted as a metric to support the prediction of their habitat distribution through time and space.Considering that climate change will exacerbate the negative effects associated with the introduction of non-indigenous species in marine ecosystems, the prediction of their thermal habitat suitability is a central task in ecology and conservation.In this context we proposed a methodology to (i) infer the suboptimal AMS of an invader and (ii) to map its suitable thermal habitat during the past decades and in a global warming scenario. Specifically, we combined sightings records, known physiological models of aerobic performance and sea surface temperatures to determining their effects on the AMS of the fish.The methodology has been tested in the Baltic Sea that is currently displaying the highest increase in sea surface temperature of the world’s large marine ecosystems and that hosts the invasive round goby (Neogobius melanostomus), a fish of Ponto-Caspian origin. As the most widely dispersed invasive fish in the world this species has produced vast ecological impacts in colonized environments including the alteration of benthic invertebrate composition through predation and competition with native fish for food, shelter, and spawning grounds. Round goby, introduced to the Baltic Sea about 30 years ago, is well established in the southern and central parts of the basin but is still absent, aside from sporadic observations, from the north and coldest areas of this region. Its distribution is likely to expand beyond the current cold boundaries due to predicted climate change. However, the proportion of the currently uninvaded areas of the Baltic Sea that will become suitable thermal habitat for round goby, and how fast it can be expected to occur, remain uncertain.Via AMS mapping, we described changes in the round goby thermal habitat suitability during the past 3 decades and for climatic predictions (until 2100), showing that the favourable thermal habitat in the Baltic Sea has increased during the past 32 years and will continue to do so considering the current climate models predictions. Notably, although the predicted new thermal conditions do not cause any reduction in the AMS of round goby populations, the wintertime cold ranges are likely expected to preserve substantial areas from invasion.The results of this research are intended to guide future monitoring programs, increasing the chance to detect this invader in novel areas, and to enhance the reliability of the projected changes in ecological models that incorporate the thermal safety margins of native and non-indigenous species.