bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Nature-based solutions for hydro-meteorological extremes in South Asian countries: Current practices, gaps, and opportunities 
Authors: Kabir Md Humayain , Chowdhury Md Arif , Hossen Md Nazmul , Nawaz Shahpara , Islam Syed Labib Ul , Hossain Md Lokman
Published: March 2024

South Asian countries are highly susceptible to different forms of hydro-meteorological extremes (HMEs) like cyclones, storm surges, floods, erosion, sea level rise, etc., while changing patterns of climate variability also make the situations worse. Nature-based Solutions (NbS) in different forms, like mangrove forests, coral reefs, salt marshes, beach nourishment, reforestation and afforestation, wetland restoration, etc., can help to reduce the magnitude of impacts. This study was conducted in South Asia countries to understand the existing practices, challenges, and potentiality of NbS regarding HMEs. The findings of sea level rise-induced extreme events are summarized as follows: (a) Significance of coastal ecosystems in mitigating impacts of HMEs, (b) NbS approaches for coastal protection and restoration, (c) Co-benefits of NbS for coastal protection and restoration, (d) Coastal Protection and NbS: South Asia Perspective- (i) Current practices of NbS to protect the coastal region, (ii) Challenges to ensure NbS regarding coastal protection, and (iii) Potentiality of NbS to protect the coastal region.Unusual rainfall patterns and their connection to landslides, along with the environmental and socioeconomic consequences and threats to vulnerable groups, are examined. We also delve into NbS interventions that stabilize slopes and prevent erosion-related events, emphasizing the significance of early warning systems, community-based strategies, and disaster preparedness measures to enhance resistance and resilience. Case studies from Chittagong Hill Tracts and Rohingya Camps in Bangladesh demonstrate the customization of NbS approaches to meet particular needs.An in-depth analysis of diverse NbS approaches, including forest and floodplain restoration, construction of wetlands and green infrastructure, and several other solutions for urban flood prevention, is presented. The extent of their effectiveness and barriers to expanding NbS practices are discussed, encompassing a range of contexts from high-income urban areas to medium and low-income regions. The focus lies on the adaptability and potential impact of NbS in various contexts, providing valuable insights into their applicability. Barriers to large-scale implementation of NbS for urban flood prevention are elucidated, encompassing legislative, financial, and societal challenges that impede the integration of NbS in practice and policies, which hinder employing initiatives for a long-term national plan for NbS. Strategies to surmount these barriers are discussed, offering insights for stakeholders seeking to navigate the complexities of NbS integration. We conclude that although NbS can be considered a cost-effective and sustainable way to protect natural ecosystems and human properties, it needs more concentration to integrate into decision-making aspects from policy to practice perspectives.
A legacy plan and an innovative access framework for the next decades of Italian geoscientists involved in scientific drilling: the role of ECORD/IODP-Italy in the ITINERIS project
Authors: Iadanza Annalisa , Argnani Andrea , Boschi Chiara , Camerlenghi Angelo , Casalena Giulia , Erba Elisabetta , Florindo Fabio , Giaccio Biagio , Kinkel Hanno , Sacchi Marco , Schleifer Andrea , Tribuzio Riccardo , Vannucchi Paola
Published: March 2024

In the framework of the Research Infrastructures (RIs), scientific drilling represents a globally ranging, distributed RI that generates a wide variety of subsurface data. The ongoing project “Italian Integrated Environmental Research Infrastructures System (ITINERIS)” aims at building the Italian Hub of RIs in the environmental scientific domain by coordinating a network of national nodes from 22 RIs, including the Italian participation in the European Consortium for Ocean Research Drilling (ECORD) and in the International Continental Scientific Drilling Project (ICDP). The main goal of ITINERIS is to promote cross-disciplinary research in environmental sciences through the use and re-use of existing (or pre-operational) data and services and new observations, and to address scientifically and societally relevant issues.The impact of ITINERIS on the Italian geoscientists involved in scientific drilling is twofold. First, it will improve the access to both the ECORD and the ICDP infrastructures. This will result in increasing the national participation in terms of proposal writing, drilling expeditions/projects, initiatives to use legacy samples/data, and training activities. Secondly, it will allow to collect and systematize the great amount of data produced by Italian scientists in the past scientific drilling programs (DSDP-ODP-IODP). This will facilitate the data handling and interoperability approach. A thematic digital archive of ECORD/ICDP-related data will be provided within the following thematic areas: micropaleontology, petrology, elemental and isotope geochemistry, paleomagnetism, stratigraphy/lithology, structural geology, borehole geophysics and site survey. This structured and accessible scientific dataset will represent a milestone for further implementation following FAIR data principles and best practices for ongoing and future drilling projects. Further developments of this digital archive might also serve as an additional tool to be integrated within the SPARCs initiative of IODP3.
Investigating oceanic carbon sequestration during glacial inception using vertical profiles of [CO32-], d13C, and d18O from the Southwest Atlantic
Authors: Garity Monica , Lund David
Published: March 2024

Despite decades of research, the cause of glacial-interglacial CO2 cycles is not fully understood, leaving a critical gap in our understanding of Earth’s climate system. One hypothesis is that shoaling of the boundary between Northern Source Water (NSW) and Southern Source Water (SSW) enhanced oceanic carbon sequestration during glacial intervals, resulting in lower atmospheric pCO2. To test this hypothesis, we generated vertical profiles of [CO32-], δ13C, and δ18O using a depth transect of cores from the Brazil Margin, focusing on the two major drops in atmospheric pCO2 during the last glacial cycle at ~115 ka and ~70 ka. Given that [CO32-] is inversely related to the concentration of dissolved inorganic carbon, [CO32-] should decrease if the Atlantic sequestered CO2. We observe no significant change in the [CO32-] across the first decrease in atmospheric pCO2 and no evidence for watermass boundary shoaling in the δ13C and δ18O profiles.  [CO32-] decreased only at ~3600 m, the core site most influenced by SSW.  During the second pCO2 decline at ~70 ka, [CO32-] decreased by ~30 µmol/kg below 2000 m water depth, coincident with marked shoaling in the δ13C and δ18O profiles. The lack of evidence for shoaling and deep Atlantic carbon sequestration at ~115 ka, a time of intermediate ice sheet extent and moderate global cooling, but the clear evidence for shoaling and carbon sequestration at ~70 ka, a time of near glacial maximum ice sheet extent, implies that the deep Atlantic’s capacity to store carbon depends on the Earth’s mean climate state. Our results highlight that distinct mechanisms are necessary to explain the two major drops in atmospheric pCO2 of the last glacial cycle. 
High importance of organic fertilizer N for grassland plant N nutrition in the years following fertilization
Authors: Han Jincheng , Kiese Ralf , Gasche Rainer , Dannenmann Michael
Published: March 2024

We applied 15N labelled cattle slurry over one year to pre-alpine grassland in order to study its importance for plant N nutrition not only in the year of application, but also in the four following years. This five-year 15N tracing study was combined with a space for time climate change experiment in order to assess long-term fertilizer N cycling under current and future climatic conditions. In the year of 15N fertilizer application, the recovery of 15N in harvested aboveground plant biomass was as low as 7-17%, while fertilizer 15N retention in the soil nitrogen pool was considerably higher (32-42%). In the year after its application, fertilizer was of equal importance for plant N nutrition compared to the year of application, as illustrated by a plant 15N recovery of 9-14%. 15N recovery in mowed plant biomass then only slowly declined in the following years and stayed significant over the entire 5 years monitored in this study.After five years, the cumulative 15N recovery rate in mowed biomass was 33 to 41 %. Considering 15N recovery in soil and roots after 5 years revealed a total 15N tracer recovery of 66% for the climate change treatment and 77% for the climate control treatment. These results show a rapid cycling of nitrogen through soil organic matter until remineralization and plant uptake. Furthermore, we reveal a minimal contribution of recent fertilizer nitrogen to plant nutrition and the dominance of soil organic nitrogen over fertilizer nitrogen for plant nutrition in such grasslands. The findings reinforce the concept that fertilizing such grasslands is largely a fertilization of soils rather than a fertilization of plants, thereby replenishing mineralized soil organic nitrogen (SON) stocks that is exported by harvests. Particularly under climate change conditions, the low N recovery rates of plant nitrogen, high plant N export and the rapid remineralization of soil organic nitrogen led to negative nitrogen balances.
Climate Prediction in Reduced Dimensions: A Comparative Analysis of Linear Inverse Modeling, Reservoir Computing and Attention-based Transformers
Authors: Nadiga Balasubramanya , Srinivasan Kaushik
Published: March 2024

This study focuses on the application of machine learning techniques to better characterize predictability of the spatiotemporal variability of sea surface temperature (SST) on the basin scale. Both, sub-seasonal variability including extreme events (cf. marine heatwaves) and interannual variability are considered. We rely on dimensionality reduction techniques---linear principal component analysis (PCA)  and nonlinear autoencoders and their variants---to then perform the actual prediction tasks in the corresponding latent space using disparate methodologies ranging from linear inverse modeling (LIM) to reservoir computing (RC), and attention-based transformers. After comparing performance, we examine various issues including the role of generalized synchronization in RC and implicit memory of RC vs. explicit long-term memory of transformers with the broad aim of shedding light on the effectiveness of these techniques in the context of data-driven climate prediction.
Atlantification at the gateway of the Arctic Ocean over the last thousand years
Authors: De Rovere Francesco , Rubino Angelo , Zanchettin Davide
Published: March 2024

Atlantification is a major process driving rapid changes in the Arctic Ocean, e.g., sea-ice loss, warming andsalinification of the near-surface, enhanced mixing and changes in the ecosystem structure. The recentscientific literature highlights the importance of the transport of Atlantic water as a cause of Atlantification,but fundamental climatic processes driving this phenomenon are far from being fully understood.Moreover, most studies focused on the analysis of recent observational data covering the last decades,while recent studies showed that Atlantification had started in the 19th century.In this contribution, we illustrate scope and progress of the Italian funded project “ATTRACTION: Atlantification dRiven by polAr-subpolar ConnecTIONs in a changing climate”. The project aims to provide a historical perspective on Atlantification by integrating observational evidence over the last decades, paleo-reconstructions and numerical paleoclimate simulations covering the past several centuries. We assess the capability of available tools to robustly describe coupled dynamics at the gateway of the Arctic Ocean (Fram Strait and Barents Sea), and their variations over multi-centennial periods. Furthermore, we provide a solid past reference for attribution of the ongoing Atlantification and discuss how paleoclimate simulations could support the identification of key locations for proxy-based reconstruction of the Atlantification. Toward a mechanistic understanding of Atlantification-like events over the last millennium, our assessment focus on the role of heat and salt redistribution by sub-polar dynamics by its major controls, including the Atlantic Multidecadal Overturning Circulation, the Sub-Polar Gyre and the Greenland Sea Gyre.
Uncovering 'Hidden' Insights from the Ocean in the PAGES CoralHydro2k Seawater δ18O Database 
Authors: Atwood Alyssa R , Moore Andrea L , Long Sylvia , Pauly Raquel , Dassie Emilie , Hargreaves Jessica , DeLong Kristine L , Morris Chandler , Sanchez Sara C , Wagner Amy J , Felis Thomas
Published: March 2024

The oxygen isotope ratio (δ18O) of seawater is a powerful tracer of the global water cycle, providing valuable information on the exchange of water between the ocean, atmosphere, and cryosphere as well as on ocean mixing processes. As such, observational seawater δ18O data place powerful constraints on hydrologic changes in the modern ocean, are essential for calibrating paleoclimate proxies based on the δ18O of marine carbonates, and are an increasingly critical diagnostic tool for assessing model performance and skill in isotope-enabled global climate models. In recognition of the broad value of seawater δ18O data to the Earth science community and the growing number of new seawater δ18O data sets that have been generated over the last decade, we launched the PAGES CoralHydro2k Seawater δ18O Database Project in 2020 to recover ‘hidden’ seawater oxygen isotope data sets. We have collated these records and combined them with public data to create a new, machine-readable, and metadata-rich database that aligns with findability, accessibility, interoperability, and reusability (FAIR) standards for digital assets.Here, we present a summary of our crowdsourcing efforts and description of the database to date, and report initial findings from the new database. The database consists of over 19,000 observations of seawater δ18O with more than 50 metadata fields. We compare seawater δ18O variability from the database to that simulated by a suite of isotope-enabled climate models and to seawater δ18O reconstructions derived from coral records and find substantial differences at annual to decadal timescales across different data sets. Lastly, we discuss the potential for future investments in water isotope observation networks to tackle 21st century science questions related to ocean changes in the past, present, and future.
Tectonic controls on effective elastic thickness of lithospheres around the Southeast Asian subduction zones
Authors: Lu Zhezhe , Li Jiabiao , Li Chunfeng
Published: March 2024

Southeast Asia has the most complicated convergent system on the Earth. The effective elastic thickness (Te) can be a constraint on the long-term flexural strength and deformation mechanism of the lithosphere. In this study, we estimate Te over the Southeast Asia via the free-air admittance function calculated by the continuous wavelet transform. Sedimentary correction is performed to avoid the biases induced by the low density of sediments. The spatial variations of Te coincide well with the tectonic settings. The Northeast Indian Seamount Province and young oceanic basins correspond to the lowest Te (≤10 km). The Sunda Shelf displays relatively low Te (10–20 km), where Cenozoic rifting and extension weakened the lithosphere. The Molucca Sea and most continental regions show high Te (≥40 km). Overall, Te shows dependence on the oceanic crustal age in our study area, and is influenced by intensive tectonic activities. Low Te (≤10 km) in northern Sumatra and central Java subduction zone is consistent with the presence of a slab tear/window and mantle upwelling. Moreover, Te in Southeast Asia is either non-correlated with surface heat flow, or weakly correlated to Curie-point depth and seismic velocities at the 100 km depth. In some regions, e.g., the South China Sea and Sumatra-Java Trench, Te shows poor correlation with all geothermal proxies we employed. We argue that the geothermal state of lithosphere exerts very limited effects on integrated lithospheric strength in the tectonically active Southeast Asia, and apart from the temperature and composition, tectonic factors dynamically control the rigidity of the lithosphere.
Surface and groundwater drought impact on natural vegetation growth and drought recovery.
Authors: Vega Briones Jorge , De Jong Steven , Nijland Wiebe , Wanders Niko
Published: March 2024

Droughts' persistent impact and growing use of surface water and groundwater will likely exacerbate hydrological droughts. Variations in precipitation patterns worsen the effects in particular catchment regions as a result to climate change. The end result is less groundwater recharge and multi-year droughts that impact vegetation and rivers.An essential factor to better understand the recovery in catchments affected by drought is to understand the interaction between water availability and vegetation dynamics. At the same time, the vegetation recovery in terms of growth and productivity can also be assessed with this framework. In this study, we focus on natural catchments of central Chile which have experienced drought and multi-year drought periods with severe impacts on surface water and groundwater.We collected 250 tree ring samples of 5 species that are susceptible to droughts in central Chile in natural catchments, and used CAMELS-CL for statistical analysis. Cross correlation analysis between surface, groundwater and vegetation dynamics was performed for each catchment to quantify the interaction between these factors. To further determine the influence of drought events on vegetation, the compound NDVI correlation and SPEI at a catchment level were used. Finally, the drought termination framework was applied to understand the recovery response of surface, groundwater and vegetation.Our analysis identifies the typical time lag between droughts in surface water, groundwater and  their impact on vegetation growth. This is done on an annual time scale as we are looking at multi-year events. We find that the typical response time varies throughout the country, depending on the local natural water availability. These findings highlight that the multi-year drought impact on vegetation and its recovery is not uniform and should be better understand in light of climate change and the global increase in multi-year drought events.
Enhancing the temporal resolution of forest canopy height levels by combining Airborne Laser Scanning and Image Matching point clouds with the help of Machine Learning
Authors: Schimpl Lorenz , Iglseder Anna , Mikolka-Flöry Sebastian , Hollaus Markus
Published: March 2024

Airborne laser scanning (ALS) point clouds are employed for the generation of country-wide digital terrain and surface models (DTMs and DSMs) and to derive further information about forested areas. This acquisition method has been established as a state-of-the-art of topographic data acquisition, especially in forested areas. However, as ALS data acquisitions are done on relatively low temporal resolution (e.g. for Austria every 6-10 years), forest parameter extraction with high temporal resolution based on ALS data is limited. In particular, the derivation of dynamic forest information such as biomass or canopy cover changes requires relatively high temporal resolution.Aerial images, along with their image-matching-based point clouds (IM), provide a further option for the creation of DSMs. Especially in areas with high vegetation such as forests, the ALS and IM data yield different elevation values.The aim of this study is to systematically quantify these differences and to investigate strategies to approximate IM-based DSMs to the ALS-based DSMs. For this research, a study site within the Vienna Woods Biosphere Reserve in the Eastern part of Austria was selected for the development and evaluation of an approach to minimise the height differences. For this area ALS and IM datasets from the same month are available.Initially, topographic models, such as the normalised DSM (nDSM), were derived from the available point clouds. Statistical parameters for different kernel sizes of the image matching nDSM were further calculated within a derived canopy mask. These parameters as predictors, along with the known differences of the nDSMS based on ALS and IM as target values, were used to train a random forest regression to further fit the IM to the ALS data.The validation, conducted on three different areas, showed an approximation of the elevation values to the ALS nDSM utilised as a reference within the canopy mask. This improvement demonstrates a promising approximation of the two models of about 77% in relation to the median of the deviations between the adjusted and the given model compared to the initial situation. The IM data shows its limitations in elongated gaps in the canopy, as the closing effects of small canopy gaps in forested areas pose challenges for the IM-based nDSM. In such instances, the regression function cannot make any improvements.
Insights into Event-based Critical-Zone Connectivity in an Intensively Managed Agricultural Landscape in the U.S Midwest
Authors: Saccardi Brian , Druhan Jennifer , Rhoads Bruce , Welp Lisa , Stumpf Andrew , Goodwell Allison , Blair Neal , Dere Ashlee , Muste Marian , Filley Timothy , Bauer Erin , Haken James , Keefer Laura , Kumar Praveen
Published: March 2024

Connectivity among the atmosphere, surface water, groundwater, soil, and sediments at different spatial scales during weather-related events is key to the operation of the critical zone but is poorly delineated. Connectivity, or the lack thereof, produces spatial and temporal variability in runoff, constituent transport, and water storage. Typical research efforts focus on quantifying functional connections between one or two landscape processes, potentially missing important feedbacks or thresholds that may vary with event magnitude, duration, frequency, spatial extent, and antecedent conditions. This is particularly important when events occur in environmental settings in which human modification of landscape form and processes impede or enhance connectivity. This research examines how gases, sediments, and solutes respond to specific events, such as droughts, wet periods, and seasonal variations in weather conditions, in intensively managed landscapes of Illinois and Nebraska. We analyze data collected for the Critical Interface Network (CINET) project, which is part of the NSF-funded Critical-Zone Collaborative Network (CZCN). These data consist of critical-zone observations from an eddy covariance tower, a RiverLab facility taking high-frequency river-chemistry measurements, automated river-suspended sediment samplers, and “management-induced reactive zone” monitoring systems.  We explore how systems respond differently among events and among constituents with modeling and data-driven analyses, and show how natural and anthropogenic factors control connections and disconnections in different parts of the landscape. Through this case study, we illustrate how interfaces between different components of the landscape are important loci for regulating event-scale connectivity across the entire landscape. We also lay out a framework of crucial considerations when quantifying responses of the critical zone to events.
MOSMIN: Multiscale observation services for mining related deposits
Authors: Lorenz Sandra , Kirsch Moritz , Booysen René , Gloaguen Richard
Published: March 2024

The transition towards a green economy has led to an increased demand for raw materials, which are mainly sourced by mining. Mining activities generate residues such as rock wastes, tailings and stockpiles. These materials are associated with environmental and safety risks that need to be carefully managed throughout their life cycle, with an emphasis on stability and the prevention of water and soil pollution. Earth-observation (EO)-based techniques are seldom used for monitoring these deposits, and multi-sensor field data is commonly not integrated despite recent technological advances. We will develop holistic, full-site services for the geotechnical and environmental monitoring as well as valorisation of mining-related deposits based on a combination of EO and in situ geophysical data. The work will be accomplished under the “Multiscale Observation Services for Mining related deposits” project (MOSMIN for short), and funded by the European Union Agency for the Space Programme (EUSPA) with project number 101131740. MOSMIN services will use Copernicus EO data for time-resolved, spatially extensive, remote monitoring of ground deformation and surface composition. Innovative change detection algorithms will highlight displacements and identify environmental hazards. Satellite data will be integrated with real-time, high-resolution data obtained from unoccupied aerial vehicles and sensors installed at the site, leveraging the power of machine learning for fusion and resolution enhancement of multi-scale, multi-source data. Novel, non-invasive geophysical techniques such as distributed fibre-optic sensing will provide subsurface information to identify potential risks such as internal deformation and seepage. In collaboration with international mining companies, MOSMIN will use pilot sites in the EU, Chile and Zambia to develop and trial comprehensive monitoring services, which are calculated to have a Total Available Market of €1.2bn and expect to be commercialised shortly after project completion by three industry partners. The MOSMIN integrative service and tools will improve the efficiency and reliability of monitoring, maximise resource utilisation and help mitigate environmental risks and the impact of mining operations. - On behalf of the MOSMIN consortium.
A novel artificial surface anomaly index (ASAI) based on post-disaster texture features using single-temporal and high-resolution imagery
Authors: Ren Shoujia , Pan Yaozhong , Zhao Chuanwu , Gao Yuan , Ma Gelilan , Wu Hanyi , Zhu Yu , Zhang Zhengyang
Published: March 2024

Earthquake is one of the most divesting natural events that threaten human life during history. After the earthquake, having information about the damaged or anomaly artificial surface area can be a great help in the relief and reconstruction for disaster managers. It is very important that these measures should be taken immediately after the earthquake because any negligence could be more criminal losses. In this study, we developed a method for near real-time, general and robustly identify anomaly artificial surfaces using 3DTF and ASAI. This method was designed to identify the impervious surface areas using single-temporal imagery without pre-disaster data. The features of the contrast, Gabor, and Con-Gabor features were used to construct 3DTF, which distinguish forest, bare land, shadows with artificial surface. And then it was then used with the K-means classifier to map the artificial surfaces area. Based on the different textures of normal and anomaly artificial surfaces, we constructed the ASAI using entropy and homogeneity, and used the index to detect anomalies in mapped artificial surface areas. The performance of the detecting anomalies method was developed at three different sites in Turkey Earthquake and the mapped results of artificial surface showed that the overall accuracies at sites A-C, and C were > 93%. Using The mapped artificial surface area and ASAI identified anomaly artificial surface. The results showed the overall accuracies were 93.76%, 91.4% and 90.07%. Given the promising and accurate outcomes of this study, further developments remain warranted to determine the robustness of the anomaly artificial surface detecting method in areas with complex artificial surface distribution.
TopoToolbox 3 – avenues for the future development of a software for terrain analysis
Authors: Schwanghart Wolfgang , Kearney William , Lamprecht Anna-Lena , Scherler Dirk
Published: March 2024

The Earth’s surface results from the interplay of tectonic and erosive forces, and the action of organisms and humans. To gain a deeper understanding of these interactions, accurate monitoring and analysis of topography is essential. Digital elevation models (DEMs) are powerful tools for achieving this goal and are available at ever increasing spatial resolution. TopoToolbox is a research software that provides a “laboratory” for the analysis of DEMs, enabling customized, automated analysis, prototyping and creative method development. Its high computational efficiency, ease-of-use and extensive documentation have attracted a worldwide user base across multiple research disciplines.Over the last ten years, TopoToolbox, now in version 2, has undergone numerous changes and additions. The development of version 3 of TopoToolbox seeks to build on those past successes and take the software to the next level. Specifically, our goals are (1) to improve usability and accessibility, (2) to enhance quality assurance in the software’s development process, and (3) to increase community involvement in the ongoing development of TopoToolbox. We strive to achieve these goals in a recently funded 2-year project, in which community involvement is a key aspect. In this presentation, we aim to interact with other researchers interested in terrain analysis to discuss avenues for future developments and activities that improve TopoToolbox's usability, expand its usage, and increase its impact in a new version 3.
Broad variability in craton reworking
Authors: Artemieva Irina M.
Published: March 2024

Cratons are commonly considered as stable parts of continents that can survive a long-term interaction with mantle convective instabilities, basal drag and plate tectonic processes. However, geochemical evidence, geophysical observations and numerical modeling question their long-term stability and suggest heterogeneous modification with possible partial destruction of cratonic lithosphere. Cratonic modification may be identified either from a significant reduction in lithospheric thickness or from densification of cratonic lithospheric mantle e.g. through melt-metasomatism. Both characteristics can be identified through geophysical modeling, such as joint interpretation of thermal and gravity data. The examples from the cratons of Eurasia, South Africa, Greenland and Antarctica demonstrate various degrees of lithosphere reworking by mantle convection and plate tectonics processes. Sharp lithosphere thinning across Greenland possibly marks the Iceland plume passage (10.1016/j.earscirev.2018.10.015) which can hardly be identified from seismic observations (10.1029/2018JB017025). In contrast, the cratonic Siberian LIP region preserves a thick lithosphere, but with a fertile mantle (10.1016/j.epsl.2018.09.034). Similarly thick but fertile lithosphere is present below the southern Africa cratons (10.1016/j.gr.2016.03.002, 10.1016/j.gr.2016.05.002) and in parts of the North China craton (10.1029/2020JB020296), where spatially limited geochemical data have earlier been interpreted as lithosphere destruction by the Mesozoic Pacific plate subduction. Indeed, the lithosphere of West Antarctica has been essentially destroyed by the Mesozoic Phoenix plate subduction, most likely in the back-arc settings (10.1016/j.earscirev.2020.103106). In contrast, the India plate subduction produced heterogeneous pattern in lithosphere thinning below Tibet (10.1029/2022JB026213). Continental regions, typically considered to be stable cratons, may have also essentially lost their cratonic signature, such as cratonic East Antarctica (10.1016/j.earscirev.2022.103954) and the East European craton with strong variations in both lithosphere thickness (10.1016/j.earscirev.2018.11.004) and mantle density (10.1029/2018JB017025). The observed broad variability in the present-day cratonic lithosphere structure precludes unique interpretations of past interactions of the cratons with mantle convection and plate tectonics processes, and indicates the existence of various types and multiple phases of such interactions, controlled by lithosphere rheology.
Exploring Canyons Beneath Devon Ice Cap for Sub-Glacial Drainage Using Radar and Thermodynamic Modeling
Authors: Pierce Chris , Skidmore Mark , Beem Lucas , Blankenship Don , Adams Ed , Gerekos Christopher
Published: March 2024

Sub-glacial canyon features up to 580m deep between broad, flat mesas were identified beneath Devon Ice Cap, Devon Island, Nunavut, Canada during a recent Radar Echo Sounding (RES) survey. The largest canyon connects a hypothesized area of distributed sub-glacial water near the ice cap's summit with the marine-terminating Sverdrup outlet glacier. This canyon represents a probable drainage route for the hypothesized sub-glacial water system. Radar bed reflectivity is consistently 30 dB lower along the canyon floor than on the mesas, contradicting the signature expected in the presence of sub-glacial water. We compare these data with radar backscattering simulations to demonstrate that the reflectivity pattern may be topographically induced. Our simulated results indicated a 10m wide canal-like water feature is unlikely along the canyon floor averaging ~300m wide, however, smaller features may be difficult to detect via RES.
We calculated basal temperature profiles along the canyon using a 2-D finite difference method, and found basal conditions at the canyon floor may be significantly warmer than at the mesas. Despite elevated temperatures, there is limited evidence that the basal environment along the canyon floor could support a connected drainage system between the Devon Ice Cap summit and Sverdrup Glacier.
The complex terrain beneath Devon Ice Cap demonstrates some limitations for RES. Future studies should carefully consider attenuation correction methods near steep or complex terrain, and seek validation of RES analyses with multiple methods, as we have demonstrated here.  
Optimal trade-off for operation of multi-purpose reservoir in the dry season
Authors: Nguyen Hai Yen , Ngo Le An , Ngo Le Long , Gebremadhin Tewelde Hagos , Peli Marco , Serina Ivan , Ranzi Roberto
Published: March 2024

Several optimisation models have been applied for optimising reservoir operations throughout the past decades. However, due to the limitations of each approach, the complexity of the system, and the conflict of combining purposes, reservoir operation evaluation and improvement remain classical. In this study, we apply a Genetic Algorithm model to generate a trade-off curve that presents alternative optimal strategies for the Hoa Binh reservoir in Vietnam. The study focuses on two goals: downstream water demand in the Red River Delta (RRD) and hydropower production in the dry season. Even though water availability in RRD is projected to be more plentiful until the mid-century, drought duration and intensity are also expected to increase. Thus, developing effective operation rules during the dry season is crucial for water security and the regional economy. The findings indicate that an optimised regulation can be developed to close the imbalance between water supply and demand while maintaining a high rate of energy generation. The optimisation criteria will also preliminarily consider the impact of the sediment transport reduction induced by trapping sediments generated by reservoirs: the enhanced erosion capacity of more clear streamflow water causes scouring of the riverbed, thus requiring more water release to meet the irrigation demand at the intake of the irrigation channels. In the future, reservoir management policies might also need to integrate the geomorphological changes induced by climatic and anthropic factors.
Rotation of Mars and the Earth revealing their core properties.
Authors: Dehant Veronique
Published: March 2024

The core is the deepest part of the planets. It is partially or totally liquid in all the terrestrial planets of the Solar System and sometimes generates a magnetic field (it is the case for the Earth and Mercury). Rapidly rotating planets like Earth and Mars, which are in addition inclined in space, undergo gravitational effects from the Sun and their moons (as well as from the other planets to a minor extend). Consequently, Mars and the Earth wobble in space: their rotation axis is doing a precession around the perpendicular to the ecliptic and additional periodic motions called nutations. Nutations provide information about the core and about the coupling mechanisms between the core and the mantle. Additionally, these two planets exhibit variations in their rotation called length-of-day (LOD) variations. The most recent data from using the VLBI (Very Long Baseline Interferometry) technique for the Earth and from the NASA InSight (Interior exploration using Seismic Investigations, Geodesy and Heat Transport) mission on Mars provide insights on the processes modifying their rotation and orientation in space. While nutations are very well understood, LOD are difficult to predict. Seasonal changes are mostly related to external geophysical fluids: atmosphere, ocean, and hydrosphere for the Earth, atmosphere and icecaps for Mars. While we have no precise series long enough for Mars, it is not the case for the Earth for which long timescale (decadal) LOD variations are mostly linked to the core. Even polar motion of the Earth can provide information about the core.
Urban network of cost-efficient particulate matter measurement devices: Performance against reference observations and scientific benefit
Authors: Schrödner Roland , Alas Honey , Voigtländer Jens
Published: March 2024

22 cost-efficient (aka ‘low-cost’) commercially available particulate matter (PM) measurement devices were installed in a diverse urban area in Leipzig, Germany. The instruments measure mostly PM2.5, some additionally PM10, and are equipped with methods for quality assurance such as conditioning to a defined temperature and regular internal calibration. In order to investigate the spread between the instruments and to enable a pre-campaign calibration, all instruments were setup in the laboratory and the outside air and compared against the same reference measurements.After calibration the measurement network was installed and run for 14 months. It covers roughly 2x2 km2 and holds different urban features like residential and commercial buildings, important main roads, city parks, and small open building gaps. Within the network there is an official air quality monitoring station located directly at a main road. In addition, at two further monitoring stations instruments were installed to study the long-term performance, dependence on meteorological conditions and comparison to reference measurements.The cost-efficient instruments perform generally quite well after the calibration. In particularly for higher PM loads > 10 µg m-3 the agreement against references is mostly satisfying, where the relative spread between instruments (while mounted in the same location) is often far below 50 %. Under very high relative humidity (RH > 95 %), which were only observed for cold temperatures during the campaign, reference observations were overestimated. Below this RH threshold no additional deviation between reference and sensors was found, hence, suggesting a stable signal. Overall, the chosen instruments have the potential for application in monitoring of air quality limit values, i.e. the answer the question how frequently are certain limit values exceeded.Furthermore, differences between different local features in the observation area could be observed in e.g., the diurnal cycle but also peak and mean concentrations. Due to the high time resolution (10s raw data), short peak events such as New Year’s fireworks or summer barbeque can be detected and compared to ‘background’ conditions at other stations in the network.
Lagrangian tracking of key demersal species in the western Mediterranean Sea: a high-resolution model approach
Authors: Sayol Juan-Manuel , Vigo Isabel , Garcia Garcia David , Bordehore Cesar
Published: March 2024

In this study we explore the most frequent trajectories of relevant demersal species in the western Mediterranean Sea. In particular, we focus on the Ibiza Channel, a region characterized by the interaction of water masses with distinct properties and by an intense fishing activity. Demersal species are suposed to be in planktonic stage, thus they behave, almost, as passive particles, being driven by the dominant ocean currents. The origin of selected demersal species, their preferred water mass properties, and their temporal variability are evaluated with a set of 2D and 3D backward Lagrangian simulations performed over a high-resolution ocean model. The model we use is the IBI-MFC, part of the Copernicus catalogue with a spatial resolution of 1/36º and 50 vertical layers. Moreover, the Lagrangian tracking is done with OceanParcels software.With the above approach we get the most probable pathways, and associated water mass characteristics, of those demersal species of interest. Besides, a detailed evaluation of simulated trajectories provides interesting insights on the spatial and temporal changes in the origin of demersal species weeks before they reach the Ibiza Channel. These results are especially important to stablish new biodiversity hotspots that should be protected, e.g., aseggs and larvae exportation areas.
Unraveling Flat Mountain Tops in the Coastal Cordillera of Central Chile: Based on Erosion Rates, Knickpoints, and Uplift Mechanisms
Authors: Yazici Muge , Scherler Dirk , Oncken Onno
Published: March 2024

The Coastal Cordillera of Central Chile, recognized as the world's longest coastal mountain range, exhibits notable variations in erosion rates, mean precipitation, vegetation cover, and topography along its expanse. Serving as a natural laboratory, this region facilitates an in-depth exploration of the intricate interplay between tectonics and climate, owing to its distinct climate gradient and unique subduction margin features. Moreover, subduction and migration of the aseismic Juan Fernandez Ridge (JFR) from northern latitudes to its current position (~ 33.5°S) establish distinct subduction erosion conditions in the north and accretion conditions in the south of the ridge. This has implications for the tectonic deformation style of the forearc, potentially influencing the style and timing of uplift.Across the region, numerous high elevation – low relief surfaces, often surrounded by knickpoints resembling flat mountain tops, offer valuable insights into the temporal aspects of knickpoint formation hence uplift processes, which might reflect the history of the ridge subduction.  Using geomorphometric indices such as steepness, chi, and knickpoint zones along rivers, we conduct a comprehensive analysis of these surfaces. Initial morphological assessments reveal no obvious trend in the distribution of these surfaces along the strike, although their size diminishes from north to south. Additionally, we used in situ cosmogenic 10Be nuclides to quantify erosion rates at five different flat mountain tops, thereby determining the knickpoint initiation time. Erosion rates are lower above knickpoint than the ones below knickpoints as expected.  Consistently low erosion rates (0.004 mm/yr – 0.07 mm/yr) prevail across the region. Considering the substantial height of these surfaces (approximately 1.5-2 km), the initiation time of the knickpoints might show the history before arrival of the JFR in the south, whereas in the north they might be comparable with the passage of the JFR. However, by incorporating paleoclimate and geodynamic conditions overtime into the landscape evolution model, we anticipate obtaining more precise results for comparison. In conclusion, the Coastal Cordillera of Central Chile undergoes complex interactions among tectonics, seismology, and climate. A nuanced understanding of these processes contributes significantly to broader insights into convergent plate boundaries and the geological evolution of forearcs. 
Exploring Hurst-Kolmogorov Dynamics: Unraveling the (temporal) link between Flood Insurance Claims and Streamflow Extremes in the contiguous USA
Authors: Manolis Georgios T. , Papoulakos Konstantinos , Iliopoulou Theano , Dimitriadis Panayiotis , Tsaknias Dimosthenis , Koutsoyiannis Demetris
Published: March 2024

This research investigates the intricate relationship between flood insurance claims and streamflow extremes in the contiguous USA, challenging the conventional belief of independence and non-catastrophic nature of insurable flood losses. Focusing on the Hurst-Kolmogorov dynamics, which emphasizes the temporal dependence of extreme flood events, we explore the implications of these dynamics on flood insurance practices and streamflow extremes. By analyzing the US-CAMELS dataset, we investigate the clustering mechanisms' impact on return intervals, event duration, and severity of the over-threshold events, which are treated as proxies for collective risk. Furthermore, stochastic approaches are developed to explore the correlation between properties of extreme events and recently published FEMA National Flood Insurance Program claims records in an exploratory analysis. This study aims to contribute valuable insights into the temporal aspects of streamflow extremes, considering the dependencies identified by the Hurst-Kolmogorov dynamics and providing essential information for enhancing the accuracy of flood insurance and reinsurance practices.
Fracture zones and rift systems of eastern Iceland: Tectonic and geodynamic links to extinct rifts on the Iceland-Faroe Ridge and Iceland Plateau
Authors: Blischke Anett , Brandsdóttir Bryndís , Karson Jeffrey A. , Erlendsson Ögmundur
Published: March 2024

In the wake of the North-Atlantic Geoscience Tectonostratigraphic Atlas (NAGTEC) project and the mapping of the Jan Mayen microcontinent and Iceland Plateau region a comprehensive study of re-processed and new geological and geophysical data is needed to establish a detailed kinematic model of the NE-Atlantic region, linking the tectonic evolution of Iceland to the offshore Iceland Plateau Rifts, the Iceland-Faroe Ridge, and the Iceland-Faroe Fracture Zone regions. Acquisition of new tectonic and structural data from extinct rift zones on land is required to further our understanding of offshore rift systems. Kinematic models indicate that Northeast Iceland and its insular shelf formed by asymmetric spreading similar to the Iceland Plateau Rift under the influence of the Iceland mantle plume. These processes created multiple volcanic rift zones, fracture zones, and strike-slip elements that accommodated the breakup and formation of crustal domains north of Iceland, such as the Iceland-Faroe Fracture Zone (IFFZ), and along the Iceland-Faroe Ridge. Recent structural mapping within the Tröllaskagi-Flateyjarskagi region and the Tjörnes Fracture Zone have revealed stress-field variations within an overall right-lateral obliquely opening rift zone that includes N-S to NNE-SSW striking left-lateral strike-slip fault systems that serve as an analogue case. This corresponds to changes and rotations in dyke strike directions adjacent to the Dalvík lineament of the Húsavík-Flatey Fault system since the Mid-Miocene. To map out structural evidence and geometries for old and abandoned propagating rift systems onshore NE Iceland, we conducted preliminary fieldwork in the Vopnafjörður region, which we aim to continue within the next three years. Our goal is to delineate abandoned rift segments within NE Iceland and model the evolution of individual rift systems with time, to determine if younger rifts cut through or have discordant trends in respect to older rift structures. We plan to assess, how onshore Miocene rift systems (~15-6 Ma) align to older Miocene systems offshore and whether the IFFZ is a pseudo-fault that developed gradually during rift propagation or a prominent feature along the NE insular margin of Iceland, within a segmented Tertiary transform zone system. Our multidisciplinary approach will thus further our understanding of the dynamics of rift zone development and transfer in proximity to the Iceland mantle plume.