bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Evapotranspiration estimates from eddy covariance and from UAV imagery
Authors: Wachniew Przemysław , Szostak Radosław , Jasek-Kamińska Alina , Zimnoch Mirosław
Published: March 2024

This study compares evapotranspiration (ET) estimates obtained from 42 hours (7 – 9 July 2023) of continuous eddy covariance measurements with ET estimates derived from UAV thermal and multispectral imagery collected in 12 flight missions completed in the same period. Meteorological conditions were stable during the measurement campaign with mostly clear sky, weak wind and air temperatures fluctuating diurnally between +8 to +30°C. The eddy covariance estimates averaged over 30 minute intervals corresponded to the source area covered mostly by oat field and freshly cut meadow. The algorithm for ET estimation was based on the Priestley-Taylor scheme applied in the ECOSTRESS Level-3 Evapotranspiration product, however, with a number of variables (components of radiative energy balance, relative humidity, ground heat flux) obtained from direct measurements. The NDVI and SAVI indices obtained from multispectral UAV images were used to estimate fractions of absorbed and intercepted photosynthetically active radiation. UAV-based ET estimates obtained at ca. 8 cm spatial resolution were averaged over the eddy covariance footprint area and interpolated for the times of EC-based ET measurements. Our results show that the approach combining UAV-based thermal and multispectral imagery with point measurements of meteorological variables and energy balance components might provide robust spatial ET estimates for agricultural areas of the size covered by one UAV mission, this is of the order of up to tens of hectares.This research was funded by National Science Centre, Poland, project WATERLINE (2020/02/Y/ST10/00065), under the CHISTERA IV programme of the EU Horizon 2020 (Grant no 857925) and the "Excellence Initiative - Research University" programme at AGH University of Kraków.
Influence of pre-existing structural weakness on active tectonics in the eastern part of cratonised Peninsular India: An integrated approach of DInSAR and Numerical Modelling.
Authors: Ali Mofid , Behera Abinas , Bhattacharjee Dipanjan
Published: March 2024

Repeated reoccurrence of the low to moderate intensity earthquakes in the Central India region for a long period scruples its acceptability as a stable continental region. In last five years, the National Centre for Seismology INDIA has reported a 27 number of earthquakes of low to moderate intensity around the Tan Shear Zone (TSZ) and Balrampur Fault geofracture in the eastern part of the Central India Tectonic Zone. Moreover, the presence of steep geothermal gradient recorded in the area, only along the aforementioned lineaments, maybe considered as an indirect evidence of frictional heat generation due to seismic/aseismic creep related to tectonic rejuvenation. The kinematics of this reactivation of preexisting structural heterogeneity under the present tectonic configuration is not well understood in this area. The present study has been conducted to address this issue of tectonic reactivation in the area specifically confined between Tan Shear Zone in the north and Balrampur Fault in the south. The Differential Interferometric Synthetic Aperture Radar (DInSAR) technique has been adopted to understand the kinematic of ground movement due to a very recent earthquake event (dated 24 March 2023 with intensity of 3.9) in this zone of interest.   Furthermore, a few numerical experiments have been carried out using finite element method (FEM)  to model the possible influence of preexisting heterogeneity on strain localization in response to current tectonic setup around the study area. In numerical model, we have assumed a hypothetical graben, formed by gravity sag in granitic rheology, filled with layer of sedimentary rheology, equivalent to Gondwana rocks.Through the DInSAR analysis of SLC image pairs, it has been revealed that the central part spanning ~25 Km length exhibits nearly uniform rate of upliftment due to the earthquake event. The axis of uplift flanked by an undisturbed zone Toward TSZ in the south and the Balrampur Fault in the north, shows a trend parallel to the boundary of Son-Mahanadi graben. For a plausible explanation of the uplift paralleling the preexisting steep graben boundary several hypothetical set-ups were tried with FEM as explained above. Thereby, it has been enumerated that even though the geometric reactivation of the steep graben boundary fault in the reverse-slip mode was not possible, due to stress-buttressing with the preexisting mechanical heterogeneity a hanging wall-cut reverse fault nucleated from the graben collar. Uplift due to this reverse fault resemblance the axial uplift in the study area by its position and orientation with respect to the preexisting structural heterogeneity. This study with multidisciplinary approaches can be considered as a classic example of shallow brittle failure causing seismicity in any Stable Continental Region.
The dynamics of fold-thrust tectonic wedge: An insight from impeccable simulation of Physical Sandbox Experiment with Finite Element Model.
Authors: Behera Abinas , Bhattacharjee Dipanjan
Published: March 2024

The deformation associated with the evolution of fold-thrust tectonic (FTT) wedge has been in the focus of research due to their association with hydrocarbons resources. Analogue sandbox modelling has been proven to be useful in characterizing FTT wedge. However, it is less convenient to interpret the influence of complex boundary conditions and material rheological parameters and to derive the stress distribution pattern from the analogue models. Nonetheless, these challenges can be accomplished competently by means of an exact numerical equivalence of those analogue models. Therefore, we undertook a numerical replication of the analogue sand-box with an absolute identical set up. This makes the attempt unique from earlier approaches, where lengths, rheology, and/or cohesive strengths were likely varied for converging the solutions in codes. Here, propagation parallel profile of sandbox experiments is numerically modelled in a 2-dimensional (2D) space with a plain strain assumption. For simplicity, the models are devoid of complex geological phenomena such as isostasy, pore fluid pressure and surficial processes. The present model enforces an elastoplastic constitutive relationship having exactly same rheology as our sand-box model. The model comprises cover material resting over a rigid decollement with frictional interaction. The cover material is subjected to asymmetrical push from one end as in physical experiment. With the identical rheology, dimensions, and geometry our numerical model successfully produced comparable results with our physical sandbox models. The measured kinematic attributes of the wedge such as taper angle, wedge width, thrust spacing, displacement along thrust from our numerical model are found in good agreement both qualitatively and quantitively with their analogue counterparts. The dynamics of deformation has also been investigated by extracting the magnitudes of stresses from each node of the numerical mesh of the present models.  From the dynamic analysis, the spatial distribution of stresses revealed that within a deforming wedge all the stress parameters are maxed periodically at a certain distance away from the pushing end boundary. The position of maximum stress is found consistent with the zone localized failure. Monitoring the periodic peaks of stress approximate the location of failure, in return leading to measure the thrust spacing. Furthermore, empirical relationships for stress distribution within a collisional wedge have been successfully developed from the observed stress distribution patterns. With the help of these relationships, mathematical expressions were developed for predicting 2D curvature of a thrust plane within a tectonic wedge. 
ILS+Urban: an offline land-surface process model for global urban climate and energy simulations
Authors: Takane Yuya , Nitta Tomoko , Adachi Sachiho A. , Yoshimura Kei , Nakano Masuo , Nakayoshi Makoto , Onomura Shiho , Crawford Ben
Published: March 2024

We have developed ILS+Urban: a coupled model of an offline land-surface model (ILS) and an urban canopy and building energy model (SLUCM+BEM) for global urban climate and energy research. The ILS is an offline land-surface model that includes MATSIRO, a land-surface model for the global climate model MIROC5. The SLUCM+BEM is a new parametrisation for urban climate and energy simulations developed by the authors, which can simply simulate anthropogenic heat from buildings (QFB) and electricity consumption (EC) from human activities. We have implemented the SLUCM+BEM in the ILS, which allows us to simulate global urban climate and energy with relatively low computational resources in offline mode. A test simulation of ILS+Urban shows that QFB and EC tend to be quantitatively high throughout the year in the Middle East, for example. In the near future, we will implement a global urban database (e.g. global LCZ, anthropogenic heat emissions and morphology) and new technology parameterisations (e.g. EV, PV and heat pump water heaters) for global urban climate and energy projections and countermeasures for urban heat and energy savings & generation. In addition, the ILS+Urban will be coupled with global climate models (e.g. MIROC and NICAM).
Impact of Weakened Antarctic Circumpolar Current on the Northern Hemisphere Climate
Authors: Wang Peixi , Han Yuhui , Yang Song , Ying Jun , Li Zhenning , Li Xichen , Hu Xiaoming
Published: March 2024

Recent findings show a remarkable linkage between the Northern Hemisphere and Southern Hemisphere climates. Previous studies have focused on the impact of the climate change in the northern high-latitudes on that in the Southern Hemisphere, but few studies concerned the impact of Southern Ocean circulation on the Northern Hemisphere, especially the Arctic climate. In this study, we close the Drake Passage (DP) to slow down the Antarctic Circumpolar Circulation (ACC) in the fully coupled Community Earth System Model, to investigate the impact of weakened ACC on the Northern Hemisphere.Two model experiments, DP opened and DP closed experiments, are performed. Relative to the DP opened case, a warmer Antarctic with less sea ice cover but a colder Arctic with more sea ice cover appear in the DP closed case resulting from weaker ACC and Atlantic Meridional Overturning Circulation (AMOC). Especially, the changes in surface air temperature in the two poles are largest in winter.Compared to the DP opened case, the anomalous southward heat transport by weakened ACC is largest in winter, contributing to the winter amplification in the Antarctic. However, the seasonal difference in AMOC change is insignificant. To understand the winter amplification in the Arctic, we further analyze local surface heat flux changes in the Arctic. The anomalous downward longwave radiation and sensible and latent heat fluxes are stored in the ocean in summer and released to the atmosphere in the following winter. Although the ocean heat content warms the surface, the upward sensible and latent heat fluxes cool the surface more significantly in winter. This local atmosphere-ocean-ice interaction contributes to the winter amplification in the Arctic. When DP is closed, the westerlies become stronger and move poleward in the Northern Hemisphere because of the increased meridional temperature gradients, especially in winter. The change in surface temperature also contribute to the weakening of Aleutian Low in winter. The warming in the Antarctic and the cooling in the Arctic leads to the notable weakening of Hadley circulation in the Southern Hemisphere. Additionally, compared to the DP opened case, the Intertropical Convergence Zone shifts southward and the Walker circulation and trade winds over the Pacific strengthen. These results shed light on understanding the interhemispheric interaction and the pole-to-pole connection.
Resetting of IRSL and IRPL signals by frictional heating in experimentally sheared Granite rock at seismic slip rates
Authors: Yang Huili , Chen Jie , Cui Furong , Kook Myungho
Published: March 2024

Recent studies on natural and experimental seismic faults have revealed that frictional heating plays an important role in earthquake dynamics. We report IRSL and IRPL signals changes in the granite rock after frictional experiments. Our results indicate that high-rate (2.0 m/s) frictional heating during seismic events can reset the 'geologic clocks' of fault rocks. Thus, the IRSL and IRPL signal in granite from natural fault zones has the potential to directly constrain the age of seismic events. Whereas low-rate (2.0 mm/s) frictional slip, even over long times (1000 s), does not reset the IRSL and IRPL signals in granite. The result is similar to the quartz gouge（Hui Li Yang., et al., 2019）.
The interplay of soil spatial heterogeneity and water in stabilizing and destabilizing soil organic matter
Authors: Chenu Claire , Védère Charlotte , Kpemoua Israel , Nunan Naoise , Pot Valérie , Garnier Patricia , Chirol Clémentine , Vieublé-Gonod Laure
Published: March 2024

Soil moisture is a main driver of soil organic matter dynamics of soil organic matter and is an important environmental variable in all models predicting changes in soil carbon stocks from site to global scales. Despite this, the mechanisms determining the response of heterotrophic soil respiration to soil moisture remain poorly quantified, being represented in most current carbon cycle models as simple empirical functions. Soils are extremely complex and heterogeneous environments and many properties observed at the profile or at the plot the scale are, in fact, determined by microscale conditions and processes. The spatial heterogeneity of soil constituents and assemblages defines a myriad of contrasted micro-habitats, hosting diverse microorganisms, with contrasted moisture related characteristics and presumably contrasted levels of microbial activity. In addition, the respective spatial distributions of organic resources and microbial decomposers and the transfer rates between them, that depend on soil moisture, explain that similar organic compounds may have contrasted residence times in soil, being stabilized or not. We consider how do soil moisture and soil spatial heterogeneity may explain the stabilisation of organic matter. Different pore size classes exhibit different rates of microbial decomposition, when considering different soils, across published studies and in a single laboratory experiment. Soil moisture affects the dynamics of biogeochemical hotspots, such as the detritusphere.Regarding destabilization of soil organic matter, priming effect was revealed to be soil moisture dependent, that can be explained by varying access of newly produced enzymes to native soil organic matter. The Birch effect, a well-described flush of mineralization observed after rewetting dry soils, may also be partly explained at the microscale by changes in the local architecture of soils.Overall, considering the interplay between soil spatial heterogeneity, soil moisture and the activity of microbial decomposers offers insights in understanding the stabilisation and de-stabilisation of soil organic matter. Incorporating this process level understanding into soil organic matter dynamics models is a challenge, as it requires the identification of relevant soil structure descriptors of these processes, at different time scales.
Integration of a Novel Flux Rope Model into Global MHD Simulations for Analyzing the Space Weather Effects of Coronal Mass Ejections
Authors: Sarkar Ranadeep , Pomoell Jens , Kilpua Emilia , Asvestari Eleanna
Published: March 2024

One of the major challenges in space weather forecasting is to reliably predict the magnetic structure of interplanetary coronal mass ejections (ICMEs) in the near-Earth space. In the framework of global MHD modelling, several efforts have been made to model the CME magnetic field from Sun to Earth. However, it remains challenging to deduce a flux-rope solution that can reliably model the magnetic structure of a CME. Spheromaks are one of the models that are widely used to characterize the internal magnetic structure of a CME. However, recent studies show that spheromaks are prone to experience a large rotation when injected in the heliospheric domain which may affect the prediction efficacy of CME magnetic fields at 1 AU. Moreover, the fully inserted spheromaks do not have any legs attached to the Sun. In addition, due to the inherent topology of the spheromak, the in-situ signature may exhibit a double flux-rope-like profile not reproduced by standard locally cylindrical flux rope models. Aiming to study the dynamics of CMEs exhibiting different magnetic topologies, we implement a new flux-rope model in “European heliospheric forecasting information asset” (EUHFORIA). Our flux-rope model includes an initially force-free toroidal flux-rope that is embedded in the low-coronal magnetic field. The dynamics of the flux rope in the low and middle corona is solved by a non-uniform advection constrained by the observed kinematics of the event. This results in a global non-toroidal loop-like magnetic structure that locally manifests as a cylindrical structure. At heliospheric distances, the evolution is modeled as a MHD process using EUHFORIA. As proof of concept, we use this tool to two CME events. Comparing the model results with the in-situ magnetic field configuration of the ICME at 1 au, we find that the simulated magnetic field profiles of the flux-rope are in very good agreement with the in-situ observations. Therefore, the framework of toroidal model implementation as developed in this study could prove to be a major step-forward in forecasting the geo-effectiveness of CMEs.
Strategy to improve financial viability of pumped storage hydropower: Techno-economic analysis of pumped storage hydropower with existing conventional hydropower
Authors: Jehanzeb Nasir , Ali Majid
Published: March 2024

The energy transition from fossil fuels to clean energy is inevitable to limit climate change. Pumped storage hydropower can compensate for the balancing of load, provides various ancillary services, and integrates variable renewable energy in the grid. However, uncertainties such as market structure, long-term natural gas prices, variable renewable energy penetration, government incentives, and regulatory policy, making it difficult to develop a viable business case for new pumped storage hydropower project. This research article considers improving financial viability of new pumped storage hydropower project by reducing upfront capital cost by utilizing existing conventional hydropower resources and reducing pumping/charging costs by finding a potential site where a water stream reaches the upper reservoir directly. The fast-track, cost-effective, and environmentally friendly approach investigates the true potential of this configuration for the case study of 200 MW Paras pumped storage hydropower with integrated 300 MW Balakot conventional hydropower. The article considers numerous scenarios for both closed-loop and open-loop pumped storage hydropower and calculates the levelized cost of energy storage for all scenarios. The conclusion is that utilizing existing conventional hydropower resources and considering water stream entering directly into the upper reservoir decreases the overall levelized cost of energy storage from 13.73 to 11.77 US$ cents/kWh (14% decrease). Results of the levelized cost of energy storage can help experts, regulators, power producers, and investors realize the importance of pumped storage hydropower as a reliable, cost-effective, and sustainable energy storage technology to integrate variable renewable energy.
Global-Scale Magnetosphere Convection Driven by Dayside Magnetic Reconnection
Authors: Dai Lei , Zhu Minghui , Ren Yong , Gonzalez Walter , Wang Chi , Sibeck David , Samsonov Andrey , Escoubet Philippe , Tang Binbin , Zhang Jiaojiao , Branduardi-Raymont Graziella
Published: March 2024

Plasma convection on a global scale is a fundamental feature of planetary magnetosphere. The Dungey cycle explains that steady-state convection within the closed part of the magnetosphere relies on magnetic reconnection in the nightside magnetospheric tail. Nevertheless, time-dependent models of the Dungey cycle suggest an alternative scenario where magnetospheric convection can be solely driven by dayside magnetic reconnection. In this study, we provide direct evidence supporting the scenario of dayside-driven magnetosphere convection. The driving process is closely connected to the evolution of Region 1 and Region 2 field-aligned currents. Our global simulations demonstrate that intensified magnetospheric convection and field-aligned currents progress from the dayside to the nightside within 10-20 minutes, following a southward turning of the interplanetary magnetic field. Observational data within this short timescale also reveal enhancements in both magnetosphere convection and the ionosphere's two-cell convection. These findings provide insights into the mechanisms driving planetary magnetosphere convection, with implications for the upcoming Solar-Wind-Magnetosphere-Ionosphere Link Explorer (SMILE) mission.
The Solar Wind: A net source or sink for terrestrial mass?
Authors: Hinton Parker , Brain David , Schnepf Neesha , Jarvinen Riku , Bagenal Fran
Published: March 2024

Shortly after the solar wind was first measured by the Second Soviet Cosmic Rocket (Luna 2) in 1959, planetary scientists immediately began wondering if it might be a source of mass for terrestrial atmospheres; perhaps even providing the Earth with all of the hydrogen needed for its oceans (De Turville 1961). This particular idea has been shown not to hold water, moreover, it is now known that the solar wind can drive escape from planetary atmospheres in the form of pick up ions. This presentation highlights an unresolved question: does the solar wind represent a net source or sink of mass for the terrestrial planets? We approach the problem using an ion-kinetic quasi-neutral hybrid (QNH) particle-in-cell (PIC) code called Rhybrid. We simulate the interaction of the solar wind with non-magnetized and weakly-magnetized terrestrial-type planets ranging in size from Mars to super Earth (1.5 RE). We also vary the ion production rate and dipole moment strength in order to explore the relevant parameter space. We quantify the escape rate of planetary ions (H+ and O+), as well as the accretion rate of solar hydrogen, and present the net mass flux for the different modeled scenarios.
The effect of habitat complexity on bacterial competition
Authors: Arellano-Caicedo Carlos , Fadhel Ara , Ohlsson Pelle , Hammer Edith C.
Published: March 2024

The way microbes interact in nature can vary widely depending on the spatial characteristics they are located in. This aspect of the microbial environment can determine whether processes such as organic matter turnover, community dynamics, or microbial speciation, among others, occur and their impact on soil functions. Investigating how the geometry of microhabitats influences microbes has been traditionally challenging due to methodological limitations. A major challenge in soil microbial ecology is to reveal the mechanisms that allow a wide diversity of microorganisms to co-exist. This study is directed towards answering the question of how spatial complexity affects bacterial competition, and how this can lead to organic matter turnover.Using microfluidic chips that mimic the inner soil pore physical geometry, and fluorescence microscopy, we followed the effect of an increasing complexity in the growth and substrate degradation of two soil bacterial strains. The parameters used to define complexity were two: the turning angle and order of pore channels, and the fractal order of pore mazes. When we tested the effect of an increasing in turning angle sharpness on microbial growth, we found that in sharper angles, both species coexisted, but only until certain sharpness where both populations decreased. We also found that substrate degradation was highest in the same sharp angles that permitted the coexistence of both strains. Our next series of experiments, testing the effect of maze fractal complexity showed that both strains could coexist and degrade the most substrate in complex mazes that had dead ends as opposed to mazes that were highly connected. Our results demonstrate the relevance of microhabitat complexity in bacterial competition and substrate degradation, showing that complex habitats allow bacterial strains to coexist and perform functions with higher efficiency than in less complex ones.
Development of early wildfire detecting system using scanning lidar and image processing
Authors: Kim Kwanchul , Lee Dasom , Kim Seong-min , Lee Gahye , Park Jeong-Min , Noh Youngmin , Kim Young J. , Lee Kwon-ho , Choi Sungchul , Choi Changgi , Choi Woosuk , Hong Chunsang
Published: March 2024

Wildfires are increasing globally due to climate change. Wildfires can spread rapidly in a short period of time, early detection is important. A CCTV and thermal imaging camera are used for early detection and prevention of wildfires and improved using camera analysis method and AI technology. However, the wildfire detection distance is still shortened depending on weather conditions and air quality, and image processing performance deteriorates due to low light at night. A satellite remote sensing technology is difficult to monitor wild fires in real time and affected by cloud mask, low spatial and temporal resolution. A Drone is also limited in flight time by communication, weather conditions, battery capacity, and payload. In the case of lidar-based long-distanced wildfire monitoring, advanced remote sensing monitoring that can monitor wildfires is possible by classifying the type of aerosol particles and the amount of light backscattered by smoke particles. Our recently developed wildfire scanning lidar technology uses light sources of two wavelengths (532 nm and 1064 nm) and developed a system capable of 360° observation within 30 minutes with an angular resolution of less than 1° in the horizontal direction. In addition, it is the wildfire scanning lidar capable of detectiong a wildfire in the atmosphere using the backscattering coefficient and aerosol optical properties calculated at two wavelengths. A depolarization of smoke aerosol in the air can be used to improve the accuracy of wildfire smoke detection using characterization of particles. Presently wildfire monitoring lidar technology under development is producing commercial products that protect eyesight and monitor forest fire smoke within a radius of 10 km through long-wavelength laser and object analysis. Acknowledgement: This research was supported by a grant (2023-MOIS-20024324) of Ministry-Cooperation R&D Program of Disaster-Safety funded by Ministry of Interior and Safety (MOIS, Korea).
Quantifying CO2 Emissions from Large Point Sources in the Indian Region: A  Data-Driven Approach using Satellite Measurements.
Authors: Sukumaran Jithin , Pillai Dhanyalekshmi , Thilakan Vishnu , Deshpande Monish
Published: March 2024

In the context of the Indian region, the existing knowledge concerning the spatial distribution and magnitude of carbon emissions is marked by significant uncertainty. Recent attempts to quantify these emissions through atmospheric inverse modeling techniques have been constrained by a dearth of atmospheric carbon observations. Furthermore, an alternative approach involves harnessing atmospheric column measurements from satellites, notably the recently launched OCO3 and forthcoming satellites equipped with sensors specifically designed for greenhouse gas monitoring at high spatial resolution. These satellite-based technologies provide broader coverage, offering a potential solution for advancing scientific studies on carbon emissions. Within the Indian region, the prevailing emissions predominantly originate from local point sources (mainly thermal power plants) and metropolitan cities. This underscores the significance of accurate quantification of emissions from these locations. This study delves into the utilization of target mode measurements from OCO3 to quantify carbon emissions in these high-emission locations across the Indian region. Further, in lieu of opting for computationally intensive atmospheric inverse modeling using a transport model, our focus lies in employing a data-driven approach to derive emissions. The results will contribute valuable insights into the efficacy of satellite-based methodologies, shedding light on their potential role in addressing the challenges associated with carbon emission estimation in this dynamic and critical geographical context.
Carbon Balance Analysis of Artificial Soil Materials from the Perspective of Life Cycle Assessment
Authors: Kim Hyomin
Published: March 2024

  This study focuses on artificial soil materials, which constitute the largest component of green roofs, and aims to compare and analyze the carbon balance of each material from a life cycle assessment perspective. The analyzed artificial soil materials comprise perlite, bottom ash, zeolite, vermiculite, peat moss, cocopeat, humus, carbonized rice hull, biochar, and bark.  Initially, the carbon emissions of these 11 artificial soil materials were examined, spanning raw material collection, manufacturing, processing, packaging, and transportation. The data utilized comes from both domestic and foreign Life Cycle Inventory (LCI) databases. For materials not present in these databases, estimates were derived based on the values of materials sharing similar production and manufacturing processes.  Subsequently, the study calculated the carbon balance during the use phase by measuring carbon emissions from the soil to the atmosphere upon application to rooftop planters. Monitoring took place on the roof of the Korea Institute of Civil Engineering and Building Technology (KICT) from September 2022 to September 2023. Measurements were conducted at regular intervals in three replicates of 11 soil material experiments using an EGM-5 portable CO2 gas analyzer. Additionally, Total Carbon (TC) analysis was conducted to assess carbon storage in the soil.  Perlite and vermiculite, with energy-intensive manufacturing processes but minimal organic matter in the soil, emitted low carbon. Conversely, humus and bark, requiring less energy in manufacturing but containing high organic matter, emitted more carbon into the atmosphere. For peat moss and cocopeat, although manufacturing processes generated little carbon, significant emissions occurred during transportation due to their importation, coupled with notable carbon emissions from organic matter in the soil.  This study emphasizes the significance of careful material selection when formulating artificial soil for rooftop greening. Even if soil carbon emissions are low, materials with substantial carbon generation during production may undermine carbon neutrality from a life cycle assessment perspective.
First robust detection of linear polarization from solar radio bursts
Authors: Dey Soham , Kansabanik Devojyoti , Mondal Surajit , Oberoi Divya
Published: March 2024

For decades, the focus of polarimetric solar radio studies has been solely on circular polarization. This stemmed from the fact that the strong differential Faraday rotation in coronal plasma should completely obliterate any linear polarization component even if it were to be present (e.g., Grognard & McLean, 1973). Consequently, after a few reports in the late 50s and early 60s of successful detection of linearly polarized radio emissions from the Sun, the  consensus has essentially been to dismiss any detected linear polarization in the observed dynamic spectra as instrumental artifacts (e.g., Grognard & McLean, 1972; Boischot & Lecacheux, 1975). This assumption has been routinely used in calibrating solar polarimetric observations, even for recent studies (Morosan et al. 2022). The state-of-the-art polarimetric calibration algorithm, P-AIRCARS (Kansabanik et al., 2022a, 2022b, 2023) does not rely on any such assumptions. It provides high-fidelity and high-dynamic-range spectropolarimetric snapshot solar radio images using a new-generation instrument, the Murchison Widefield Array (MWA). This enables us to explore a part of phase space which was hitherto unexplored.Using P-AIRCARS and the MWA, we present the first robust imaging-based evidence for linearly polarized emission in metre-wavelength solar radio bursts. This finding is corroborated by simultaneous observations with the upgraded Giant Metrewave Radio Telescope at the same spectral band. Moreover, our estimated upper limit on the Rotation Measure (RM) of ~50 rad m-2 are orders of magnitude lower than the previous estimates based on coronal models (e.g., ~103 rad m-2 by Bhonsle & McNarry, 1964). This low RM implies that the linear polarized emission has traversed much lower electron column densities, suggesting that it originates at much higher coronal heights. Interestingly, detections of linear polarization in stellar radio bursts have also been reported recently (Callingham et al., 2021; Bastian et al., 2022). We conclude by exploring some physical scenarios which can potentially give rise to such linearly polarized emissions in the solar corona.
Exploring Interplanetary Small Flux Ropes: A Comprehensive Review 
Authors: Winslow Reka , Banu Sahanaj , Murphy Amy , Lugaz Noé , Al Haddad Nada , Farrugia Charlie
Published: March 2024

Magnetic small flux ropes (SFRs) in interplanetary space are small, transient structures that are abundant in the solar wind that are commonly identified by strong core fields associated with a bipolar field in one of the magnetic field components. We examine the statistical properties of SFRs near the equatorial plane across an extensive heliocentric distance range from 0.13 to 5.45 au, combining studies from PSP near the Sun all the way to Juno at Jupiter. Over the past decade, a multitude of SFR catalogs have been assembled from varied spacecraft data over this large distance range, using different datasets and disparate identification criteria. Assimilating results from these different inquiries has not been done before and is necessary in order to draw meaningful conclusions related to SFR origins and evolution over these distances. Despite these recent statistical studies, establishing clear trends is difficult due to inconsistent methods and the lack of standardized set of criteria used to identify SFRs between the different investigations. We review and consolidate the main findings of recent research, to shed light on the origin of SFRs by establishing trends in the SFR occurrence frequency, duration, and magnetic field evolution. By thus gaining a more coherent and comprehensive understanding of SFR formation and evolution, we make recommendations for future investigations at distinct heliocentric distance ranges from the Sun to Jupiter.
Potential of greenhouse gas emissions from urban lakes recharged with STP effluent
Authors: Singh Amit , Kumar Prajapati Sanjeev , Bai Attila
Published: March 2024

In the past few decade’s urbanization, changing rainfall patterns, and inadequate precipitation are a few of the major reasons for dried urban lakes. Many such lakes are successfully revived using effluent from nearby sewage treatment plants. However, high nutrient loading and concentrated surface flow leads to problems like eutrophication followed by high greenhouse gas emissions (GHG). Majority of these lakes are shallow which has higher GHG emissions compared to the deeper lakes. India’s urban lakes are suffering from the similar fate. Study conducted in South Delhi, India reflects high phosphate and nitrate concentrations in the lake. Due to this, lakes are highly eutrophic and biomass concentration varies between 2 - 4.5 gL-1. Considering volume and biomass concentration, carbon dioxide sequestration comes out to be 1.2 Kg CO2/Kg of biomass. It was also seen that the average methane yield from microalgae is around 56%. It was found that total GHG potential was 5.856 Kg CO2-equivalent/ Kg of biomass which makes eutrophication a serious environmental issue. It is worth noting that microalgae in lakes decreases CO2, simultaneously increasing CH4 emissionswhich has 27-30 global warming potential (GWP) and relatively harmful for environment. In the past few decades studies reflected CH4 is responsible for 72 % of the climatic change (in CO2-equivalents) from lakes and inland waterbodies. The current study highlights the consequences of eutrophication in urban lakes with treated domestic discharge and suggests proper lake water quality management. Nevertheless, microalgae harvesting, and anaerobic digestion can be used to mitigate GHG and recover energy for a better and sustainable future.
Stream Length and Diatom Communities Control Si Dynamics in Glacial Meltwater Streams of the McMurdo Dry Valleys, Antarctica
Authors: McKnight Diane , Johnson Keira , Heindel Ruth , Jankowski kathi jo
Published: March 2024

In the polar deserts of Antarctica, meltwater from glaciers flows in streams for only about two months during the summer. As the water flows downstream and interacts with the sediment in the stream channel, weathering reactions increase the concentrations of dissolved constituents in the stream water, especially silica. In the McMurdo Dry Valleys, the glacial meltwater streams that flow during the austral summer are important biogeochemical links between the alpine and terminal glaciers and the lakes in the valley floors.  As part of the McMurdo Dry Valleys Long-Term Ecological Research (MCMLTER) project, 17 first and second order streams are monitored for flow and water quality, and diatom community composition in the perennial microbial mats on the streambed. This study found that in streams that are about 1 km long and have abundant microbial mats, the diatoms can take up enough silica to reduce the concentrations of dissolved silica to very low values (>/= 1 mg/L). In comparison, in longer streams Si concentrations are greater (2 mg/L and greater) due to the input of Si from weathering in the hyporheic zone. A previous study has found that diatom community composition in two short streams is significantly related to total flow during the austral summer, leading to a hypothesis that decreases in Si concentrations with increasing flow may favor smaller diatoms with less silicified frustules. We analyzed the 25-yr discharge and silica record for 10 streams using the Weighted Regressions on Time, Discharge, and Season (WRTDS) model to estimate mean 5-day silica concentrations for December through January. These analyses revealed that the shortest stream with the strongest relationship between flow and diatom community composition consistently exhibited minimum Si concentrations of ~ 0.5 mg/L at peak flow. In contrast, Si concentrations were higher and more stable throughout the summer for long streams that exhibit little variation in diatom community composition. These results suggest that Si uptake by diatoms can control both in-stream Si concentrations and diatom community composition.  Understanding the relationship between the diatoms in the mat communities and environmental change is useful for interpreting the record of the stream diatoms preserved in lake sediments and for considering future scenarios for the Dry Valleys.
Tibetan warming amplification response to individual anthropogenic climate forcing
Authors: Xu Chaoyi , Zhao Yutong , Wang Tao
Published: March 2024

Over the past 40 years, the Tibetan Plateau has experienced rapid climate change, with its warming rate approximately 1.8 times higher than the global average, equivalent to half of the Arctic amplification during the same period. However, the contributions of anthropogenic aerosols and greenhouse gases to the warming of the Tibetan Plateau remain unclear, leading to substantial uncertainties in temperature change projections. Here, we present a diagnosis of the local energy budget over the Tibetan Plateau based on idealized perturbations in four climate forcing agents (CO2, CH4, SO4, and black carbon) Additionally, we assess the impact of radiative feedback processes such as albedo and water vapor to temperature change. The results indicate that the Tibetan warming amplification (defined as the ratio between the Tibetan Plateau and the global mean near-surface temperature change) is evident across all anthropogenic climate forcings. While the global near-surface temperature response normalized by effective radiative forcing is similar, there are substantial variations in Tibetan warming amplification among different climate forcing agents, ranging from 1.5 for CO2 perturbations to 2.9 for black carbon perturbations. For all perturbations, surface albedo feedback is identified as a crucial factor driving temperature changes over the Tibetan Plateau. Particularly for black carbon perturbations, the combined effect of surface albedo feedback and water vapor feedback contributes to the stronger Tibetan warming amplification than in the Arctic. This suggests that with the implementation of global emission reduction measures and the reduction of glacier and snow cover, the pace of exceptional warming might decelerate over the Tibetan Plateau.
Hydraulic strategies of desert shrubs responding to morphological adjustment under persistent drought
Authors: Huo Jianqiang , Zhang Zhishan
Published: March 2024

Desertification is one of the most important environmental problems in the world. In arid and semi-arid regions, desert shrub reconstruction is one of the most effective ways to prevent desertification and promote ecological restoration. Recently, many studies have reported the hydraulic trade-off, coordination, and hydraulic segmentation of woody plants, however, the mechanism of how the hydraulic segmentation drives morphological adjustment of desert shrub to response to drought is still largely unclear. Here, the two-year-old seedlings of Caragana korshinskii and Artemisia ordosica as materials were subjected to continuous drought treatment. The aim is to explore hydraulic strategies and quantify the hydraulic threshold when morphological adjustments drive occurs. The results showed that tissues water content of C. korshinskii and A. ordosica under persistent drought showed an exponential decrease with the decrease of soil water content, but it is with a certain lag effect. Meanwhile, the leaf water potential, xylem specific hydraulic conductivity, degree of natural embolism and photosynthetic rate, etc. showed decrease trend with persistent drought. Above results suggested that hydraulic functional traits were drove by changes of soil water, but the tissue hydraulic capacitance acts as a buffer against decline of above traits. Moreover, the water potential thresholds of 88% stomatal closure and hydraulic safety margin in C. korshinskii was significant high than A. ordosica’s, which indicated that C. korshinskii are more vulnerable to drought. Then, the morphological adjustments such as leaf wilting and lateral branches wilting further occurred with the continued drought, however, the lateral branches of C.korshinskii could germinate again after soil water recovery, but A.ordosica could not. Overall, the water potential and hydraulic conductivity threshold for morphological adjustment of desert shrub such as leaves wilting and lateral branches wilting under continuous drought were quantified and the hydraulic strategies were elucidated that was regulated by hydraulic segmentation.
Investigating seabed fluid activities using historical single-beam echo sounder data in the offshore southwestern Taiwan
Authors: Lin Yi-Chin , Lin Jing-Yi
Published: March 2024

Seabed fluid activity involves the transport and migration processes of liquids, gases, and seawater beneath the seafloor which is primarily controlled by factors such as fault activity, sediment overpressure, seismic events, sea level changes, tidal activity, and submarine landslides. Based on different formation mechanisms, the sources of fluids include such as thermal, biological, and natural gas hydrate decomposition. The southwestern offshore Taiwan experiences compressional stress, leading to the formation of numerous folds and thrust faults that establish conduits for fluid migration. The presence of a series of mud volcanoes and mounds of natural gas hydrates points to a substantial methane flux in this region. While previous studies have used single-beam echo sonar (SBES) data to detect seabed gas discharge phenomena, analyses relied on 2D sonar images, making results susceptible to the influence of single survey lines and temporal variations. We aim to develop processing programs for SBES data to obtain 3D sonar image distribution and intensity analysis, providing a more precise analysis of fluid and gas-related activities in southwestern offshore Taiwan. Three research vessels' SBES data from the past decade have been reexamined. The possible flare signals are transformed into a 3D point cloud distribution by computing the receiving angle of the data. The near-surface point cloud effectively illustrates the precise discharge area. Comparing changes at the same location over different times may provide insights into the correlation between geological structural activities and gas emissions. However, due to the significant period and differing equipment configurations on each vessel, consolidating the data to a uniform standard poses certain challenges. The complex changes in seafloor bathymetry also increase the difficulty of discerning gas emission signals.
Balancing crop production, water quality and the use of finite P reserves by using the soil P sorption capacity in revised fertilizer recommendations
Authors: van Doorn Maarten , van Rotterdam-Los Debby , Ros Gerard H. , de Vries Wim
Published: March 2024

Phosphorus (P) is an essential nutrient for plant growth and is applied to agricultural soils in the form of organic manure or inorganic fertilizer. To guide farmers in achieving optimal crop yields, P fertilizer recommendations are in place with the rationale to bring soils to a “target soil P status” following the classic build-up and maintenance approach. The target soil P status where crop yield is not limited by P deficiencies is generally operationalized as the soil P status at which 90-99% of the potential crop yield is found in long-term fertilization field experiments. Though these fertilizer recommendations allow for an economic optimization of crop yield versus P inputs, environmental objectives are barely considered. In our research, we revised the classic build-up and maintenance approach to balance crop production, water quality and the use of finite P reserves. This revision requires insights into the P sorption capacity of soils (PSC) and its saturation with P. We identify the oxalate extraction method as a key component of this approach since it quantifies the PSC from the combined measurement of amorphous iron- and aluminium-(hydr)oxides and the total pool of reversibly bound P. For the Netherlands, we show the implications of the approach for P fertilizer use. We quantified soil amorphous iron- and aluminium(hydr)oxides contents at a 25m resolution across the soil depth profile using a Digital Soil Mapping approach and used these predictions to translate agronomic soil P data to new insights to optimize P fertilizer use. We finally argue that agronomic P target levels should be lowered in soils with a low PSC to decrease the risk of P leaching and in soils with a high PSC to ensure judicious use of finite P reserves.