bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Nature-based solutions for erosion mitigation : insights from a systematic review for the Andean region
Authors: Vanacker Veerle , Molina Armando , Rosas Miluska , Bonnesoeur Vivien , Román-Dañobeytia Francisco , Ochoa-Tocachi Boris , Buytaert Wouter
Published: March 2024

The Andes Mountains stretch over about 8900 km and cross tropical, subtropical, temperate and arid latitudes. More than 85 million people lived in the Andean region by 2020, with the northern Andes being one of the most densely populated mountain regions in the world. The demographic growth and a stagnating agricultural productivity per hectare led to an expansion of the total agricultural land area, either upward to steep hillsides at high elevations covered by native grassland-wetlands ecosystems, or downward to lands east and west of the Andes covered by tropical and subtropical forests. Land use and management have significantly altered the magnitude and frequency of erosion events. 

This study systematically reviews the state of evidence on the effectiveness of interventions to mitigate soil erosion by water and is based on Andean case studies published in gray and peer-reviewed literature. After screening 1798 records, 118 empirical studies were eligible and included in the quantitative analysis on soil quality and soil erosion. Six indicators were pertinent to study the effectiveness of natural infrastructure: soil organic carbon and bulk density of the topsoil, soil loss rate and run-off coefficient at the plot scale, and specific sediment yield and catchment-wide run-off coefficient at the catchment scale. The protection and conservation of natural vegetation has the strongest effect on soil quality, with 3.01 ± 0.893 times higher soil organic carbon content in the topsoil compared to control sites. Soil quality improvements are significant but lower for forestation and soil and water conserva- tion measures. Soil and water conservation measures reduce soil erosion to 62.1 % ± 9.2 %, even though erosion mitigation is highest when natural vegetation is maintained.

Further research is needed to evaluate whether the reported effectiveness holds during extreme events related to, for example, El Niño–Southern Oscillation.

 
 
 
Precursors of summer heatwaves in the Eastern Mediterranean
Authors: Garfinkel Chaim , Rostkier-Edelstein Dorita , Morin Efrat , Hochman Assaf , Schwartz Chen , Nirel Ronit
Published: March 2024

Reanalysis and observational data are used to identify the precursors of summertimeheatwaves over the Eastern Mediterranean over the historical period. After compilinga list of heatwaves using objective criteria, we identify robust precursors present 7 to 10days before the onset of the heatwave, longer than the typical horizon for trustworthyweather forecasts. If these precursors are present, there is a significant warming overthe Eastern Mediterranean over the following 10 days that then persists for weeksafter. These precursors include a weakened Indian monsoon, warm West/CentralMediterranean Sea surface temperatures, and a low disturbance from the west. Further,horizontal temperature advection is the proximate cause of the heatwave in the daysbefore the extreme, and in particular a weakening of the Etesian winds that wouldotherwise advect relatively cool maritime air inland accounts for around half of thewarming. There is a clear tendency for more heat extremes in recent years. Theseresults have implications for the forecasting of summer heatwaves in the EasternMediterranean, and the framework developed here can be applied in other regions aswell.
Bedforms effect on microplastics deposits erosion 
Authors: Varrani Arianna , Guerrero Massimo , Mrokowska Magdalena , Rowiński Paweł M.
Published: March 2024

Transport processes involving both microplastics (MPs) and natural sediments are being marginally studied, for the high complexity of the system and the many factors requiring attention. Still, it is of high importance to understand the interactions between natural sediments and MPs transport, especially at the water-bed interface, a critical area for rivers’ ecology and biodiversity. To bridge this gap, we carried out flume (15-m long, 1.0-m wide and with 0.27 m water depth) experiments to study the interactions of a small bedform and a deposit of compact MPs. The compact-shaped MPs, consisting of Polyamide 6 particles with equivalent sphere diameter around 2.9 mm, were released at a low flow rate (around 20 l/s corresponding to a mean velocity of 0.1 m/s), for which deposit formed at the lee side of a 2-cm high and approximately 0.7-m long sand dune. A sudden increase of flow rate was then applied (up to 60 l/s corresponding to a mean velocity of 0.3 m/s), forcing erosion of the MPs. Measurements included velocity profiles and turbulent measurements via Acoustic Doppler instrumentation, videos and underwater photos of the small bedform. From Doppler measurements the mean flow characteristics were derived, as well as fluctuating terms of the velocity components up to 50Hz. Using Structure from Motion, a 3D model of the bedform and the MPs deposit was constructed. The erosional behaviour of deposited MPs was derived by estimating the total volume mobilised from the deposit by difference (prior and post erosion) via DEM. The MPs’ removal efficiency was then estimated, in three cases of MPs’ deposit initial volumes.  
Towards sub-daily monitoring of polynya dynamics using deep-learning enhanced calibrated multi-mission thermal-infrared imagery
Authors: Paul Stephan
Published: March 2024

Antarctic coastal and flaw-lead polynyas are recurring areas of thin ice and open water which are generally formed by divergent ice motion during winter and are considered important hot spots for sea-ice production, deep-water formation and gas ventilation of the ocean. Due to the dependency of ocean-to-atmosphere heat flux on the ice thickness and the nature of thermodynamic ice growth by release of latent heat at the ice/ocean interface, high rates of ice production occur predominately under thin-ice/frazil-ice areas as well as in open water areas during winter time. Several Arctic and Antarctic studies use Moderate Resolution Imaging Spectroradiometer (MODIS) thermal-infrared data to monitor polynya area and associated sea-ice production in polynyas and compare well to or even outperform studies using passive-microwave satellite data in certain regions. However, especially positive temperature-anomaly features such as large warm open-water areas through sea-ice polynyas pose a problem for the MODIS cloud mask and result in frequent misclassification of these areas as cloud cover. Furthermore, the frequent presence of cloud cover in polar regions limits the use of MODIS and similar instruments for the investigation and monitoring of sea-ice polynyas compared to passive-microwave-based sensors. The very low thermal contrast between present clouds and the sea-ice surface in combination with the lack of available visible and near-infrared channels during polar nighttime results in deficiencies in the cloud masking and data gaps that degrade downstream data products.
Here, a novel dataset on polynya area and sea-ice production from three thermal-infrared sensors (MODIS, SLSTR, VIIRS) is presented using a deep-learning-based approach. This approach utilizes a set of Convolutional Neural Networks that are able to reliably discriminate between clouds, sea-ice, and open-water and/or thin-ice areas in a given swath solely from thermal-infrared channels and derived additional information. Furthermore, this work aims to implement an image inpainting approach using a conditional Generative Adversarial Network (GAN) to fill cloud-induced data gaps. In its final version, this data set aims to covers the major Antarctic coastal polynyas for the last 24 years (2000–2023) for the austral winter (1 April to 30 September) period with all polynya parameters being derived from sub-daily cloud-cover corrected thin-ice thickness images and daily composites.
Investigating the hydrological cycle of a subtropical mountainous island using water isotopes
Authors: Torri Giuseppe , Nugent Alison , Popp Brian
Published: March 2024

Water resources help maintain the delicate balance on which tropical island ecosystems and populations depend. A clear understanding of the water cycle on tropical islands is therefore essential to ensure that life remains sustainable in such biodiverse and vulnerable places. Water isotopes are a powerful tool in this effort, although the scarcity of long-term and high-frequency data makes interpretation challenging. Here, we present a new dataset based on a weekly collection of the H and O isotopic composition of rainfall on the island of Oʻahu, Hawaiʻi, beginning in July 2019 and continuing. The data show considerable differences in isotopic ratios produced by different weather systems, as well as significant spatial variability, with some sites characterized by higher isotopic ratios than others. The amount effect is also not consistently observed at all sites. The deuterium excess shows a pronounced seasonal cycle, which is attributed to the different characteristics of the air masses responsible for precipitation in the winter and summer months. A comparison with a long-term historical record illustrates the strong interannual variability and the need to establish a long-term precipitation isotope monitoring network for Hawaiʻi.
A Critical Role for Meridional Modes in Determining the Equatorial Pacific Response to Orbital Precession
Authors: Persch Cole , Sanchez Sara
Published: March 2024

Understanding external drivers of the El-Nino Southern Oscillation (ENSO) is essential for predicting its future evolution. Orbital precession has been identified as a driver of ENSO variability through both proxy records and climate model simulations, yet the exact mechanics remain unclear. This orbital cycle moderates the seasonal timing of insolation relative to Earth's revolution around the Sun, thereby adjusting the magnitude of the seasonal cycle experienced by each hemisphere. Here, we analyze output from a suite of simulations in NCAR CESM 2.1.1 designed to analyze ENSO under different precessional extremes that significantly modify the meridional temperature gradients and the cold tongue seasonal cycle in the Pacific ocean. Variations in orbital precession have a strong impact on the magnitude, periodicity, and spatial expression of tropical Pacific variability. We find a critical role for both the North and South Pacific Meridional Modes (NPMM and SPMM) in explaining changes in ENSO and decadal variability by propagating subtropical anomalies to the equatorial Pacific along with a shift in the meridional structure of equatorial winds. As an example, when the perihelion of orbit occurs during boreal winter creating a dampened (strengthened) seasonal cycle in the Northern (Southern) Hemisphere, the SPMM becomes significantly more active while the NPMM weakens. This precessional state experiences a shift toward amplified decadal variability and a greater prevalence of Eastern El Nino events in comparison with the other orbital configurations tested. Understanding the precessional control of tropical variability via subtropical pathways may help explain developments that have occurred in the past, as well as future changes which may be observed due to shifts in meridional temperature gradients.
Examining Race and Class Disparities in Urban Heat in Australia and New Zealand: Towards Environmental Justice in Urban Planning
Authors: Chawla Jayati , Benz Susanne
Published: March 2024

Environmental (in)justice arising from Climate change and urbanization exhibit uneven distributions, specifically impacting disadvantaged communities. While studies in the USA highlight the elevated heat exposure faced by low-income and ethnic minority groups, similar insights are lacking for other countries. This knowledge gap impedes a comprehensive understanding of environmental (in)justice experienced by various socio-economic and ethnic groups and hampers the identification of inadequacy in urban planning policies.This research seeks to bridge the gap between social and environmental sciences to address environmental (in)justice by establishing a link between extreme heat (at both regional and country level) and socio-economic disparities for Australia and New Zealand. Using remotely sensed satellite data for Land Surface temperature mapping for summer (night time) and Census data of countries, the analysis explores various socio-economic indicators—such as education levels, age demographics, and the proportion of foreign populations.Australia and New Zealand serve as pertinent case studies due to their distinct socio-economic landscapes and Indigenous populations. By recognizing the unequal distribution of urban heat and its disproportionate impact on vulnerable communities, there emerges a critical mandate to prioritize equitable urban planning policies. This research underscores the urgency for policymakers and urban planners to prioritize environmental justice interventions and integrate strategies that aim to reduce race and class disparities concerning urban heat. The findings also serve as a template for similar analyses globally; fostering inclusive, equitable and resilient urban landscapes.
The impact of wildfire and droughts on the GHGs exchange in temperate wetland.
Authors: Fortuniak Krzysztof , Pawlak Włodzimierz , Siedlecki Mariusz , Górowski Jan
Published: March 2024

We analyzed 10 years (2013-2022) of CO2 and CH4 flux data measured using the eddy covariance method in the Biebrza National Park in north-eastern Poland. The Biebrza wetlands are among the largest in Central Europe, comprising a contiguous area of more than 250 km².  The measurement site (53°35′30.8′′ N, 22°53′32.4′′ E, 109 m a.s.l.) was located in the central basin of Biebrza valley at the area dominated by patches of reeds, high sedges, and rushes, very typical of Biebrza wetlands. In the analyzed period the studied ecosystem was affected by severe droughts in 2015 and 2018-2020. Moreover, on April 20–25, 2020, the Biebrza National Park was touched by huge fires that consumed over 5,500 ha of landscape. The measurement site was located at the north-eastern edge of the burned area and the entire source area of eddy-covariance system was affected by the fire. The system suffered some damage, but flux measurements were re-established about a week after the fire. The response of the CH4 flux to changes in hydrometeorological conditions is quite simple - the thermally determined annual course of CH4 is strongly modified by the water table level (WTL). The annual emission of CH4 reached 21 gC-CH4·m-2·yr-1 in the wettest year and dropped even below 1 gC-CH4·m-2·yr-1 in dry years. The CO2 exchange response is more complex. In the case of net ecosystem exchange (NEE), a linear relationship is observed between the average WTL and the annual sum of CO2 flux. In wet years the studied peatland was a significant sink of CO2 (down to −250 gC-CO2·m-2·yr-1) whereas in dry years we observed a substantial release of CO2 (up to +300 gC-CO2·m-2·yr-1). A similar linear relation was observed for ecosystem respiration (ER), which ranged from 830 to 1400 gC-CO2·m-2·yr-1 in wet and dry years respectively. In contrast, gross ecosystem production (GEP) followed WTL changes only in the first 3 years of observations. Vegetation then switched to drier conditions and GEP remained on similar level up to 2020, when it increased significantly after the April fire. Excluding 2020, GEP varied in the range of 910-1250 gC-CO2·m-2·yr-1. Acknowledgements: Funding for this research was provided by the National Science Centre, Poland under project UMO-2020/37/B/ST10/01219 and University of Lodz under project 4/IDUB/DOS/2021. The authors thank the authorities of the Biebrza National Park for allowing the continuous measurements in the area of the Park.
Drainage base-level fall history in North-western Apennines and implications on the Alessandria Basin tectonic activity
Authors: Buleo Tebar Victor , Bonasera Mauro , Racano Simone , Fubelli Giandomenico
Published: March 2024

Drainage networks are particularly sensitive systems among all the topographic features in terms of their response to perturbations driven by active tectonics. Indeed, fluvial landscapes can record several information about different processes especially in geodynamically active areas, allowing to relate spatial-temporal variation in base-level fall and vertical incision of stream channels with certain morphometric features. This study focuses on the tectonic evolution of the Alessandria Basin, a syn-orogenic tectonic basin located at the junction between the Alps and the Apennines, that experienced progressive subsidence during the overthrusting of the Monferrato Arc (the westernmost outer arc of the Apennine belt) onto the Po Foreland Basin. Different studies carried out in this region have assessed the Neogene tectonic evolution at a regional scale, although Quaternary activity is still poorly understood in terms of both Alps/Apennines uplift and activity of the compressive front of the Monferrato Arc. In this study, we applied river linear inversions to reconstruct the baselevel-fall history of 6 catchments that drain into the Alessandria Basin. We used 9 10Be-derived basin-average denudation rates to calculate the erodibility parameter needed for inferring base-level fall rates from previously chi-transformed river profiles. The results describe the last ~ 3 Ma of tectonic activity, highlighting increases in baselevel-fall rate with an initial peak around 3 Ma, and a second around 2 Ma. While the first peak is coeval with the vertical uplift that affected most of the northern-central Apennine, the second one suggests an acceleration in subsidence of the Alessandria Basin concurrently with the uplift of the Monferrato Arc.
A “cookbook” for probabilistic tsunami hazard and risk assessment
Authors: Sørensen Mathilde , Behrens Jörn , Jalayer Fatemeh , Løvholt Finn , Lorito Stefano , Selva Jacopo , Salgado Mario , Rafliana Irina
Published: March 2024

Probabilistic tsunami hazard and risk assessment methods (abbreviated PTHA and PTRA, respectively) have evolved quickly over the past 10 to 15 years. Given this rapidly evolving landscape, there is a need to establish best practices for PTHA and PTRA to improve reliability, comparability and reproducibility of studies applying such methods. The recently concluded Cost Action CA18109 AGITHAR (2019-2023) intended to improve the scientific foundation for PTHA and PTRA. To materialize the networking activities into guidelines and best practices, more than 50 tsunami scientists have joined forces to develop a so-called cookbook providing recommendations and workflows for both PTHA and PTRA. The cookbook will give an overview of existing methods, unify the descriptions of named workflows, make best practices examples available to a wider community, and provide background information to various stakeholder groups. We employ the analogy of a cookbook, because successful PTHA/PTRA workflows can be described by essential building blocks (ingredients) combined in specific ways (recipes) to serve the purpose of the analysis of actual application fields. In that regard, we first introduce the main ingredients in seven chapters describing e.g.  source models, tsunami models, vulnerability, exposure, as well as risk communication, and then present a series of recipes (25 in total) providing examples of how the ingredients can be combined in a workflow leading to a meaningful PTHA or PTRA. The cookbook can be used and read in different ways. On the one hand, and again in analogy to a usual cookbook, readers may browse through recipes, and access the ingredients chapters following the corresponding list of ingredients. The recipes all follow a similar organizational structure, so they can be accessed easily. On the other hand, the book can be read consecutively, starting with the study of ingredients, following the general workflow of PTHA and PTRA. By this, scholars will learn in a structured way how to build corresponding hazard and risk assessments. Finally, for the more experienced readers, the book may serve as a reference to the current state-of-the-art in this multidisciplinary research area. In this presentation, we will introduce the key ingredients described in the cookbook, as well as selected recipes. We will then summarize the main recommendations for future PTHA/PTRA studies, as provided in the book. The book is expected to be published in Autumn 2024.
Enhanced Ephemeral Gully Erosion Science within AnnAGNPS 
Authors: Bingner Ronald , Wells Robert , Momm Henrique , Locke Martin
Published: March 2024

Concentrated runoff increases erosion and moves fine sediment and associated agrichemicals from upland areas to stream channels. Ephemeral gully erosion on croplands in the U.S. may contribute more of the sediment delivered to the edge of the field then from sheet and rill erosion. Typically, conservation practices developed for sheet and rill erosion are also expected to treat ephemeral gully erosion, but science and technology are needed to account for the separate benefits and effects of practices on each of the various sediment sources.Watershed modeling technology has been widely developed to aid in evaluating conservation practices implemented as part of a management plan, but typically lacks the capability to identify how a source, such as sheet and rill erosion, ephemeral gully erosion, or channel erosion, is specifically controlled by a practice or integrated practices. The U.S. Department of Agriculture’s Annualized Agricultural Non-Point Source pollutant loading model, AnnAGNPS, has been developed to determine the effects of conservation management plans on erosion and provide sediment tracking from all sources within the watershed, including sheet and rill, ephemeral gully, and channel erosion. This study describes the ephemeral gully erosion capabilities within the AnnAGNPS model and discusses research needs to further improve these components for integrated conservation management planning.  Conservation management planning by agencies within the U.S. and by international organizations requires a systematic approach when determining the extent of ephemeral gully erosion impacts on a field, watershed, or national basis, and/or to predict recurring or new locations of ephemeral gullies prior to their development.  This technology provides the capability to separate the impact of ephemeral gullies on erosion from other sources and then evaluate the impact of targeted practices to control erosion at the source and subsequent downstream resources.
The (ir)relevance of plot- and hillslope scale processes for catchment runoff
Authors: van Meerveld Ilja
Published: March 2024

Experimental field studies are crucial to understanding hydrological processes. Studies at the plot-, hillslope-, or small catchment-scales have helped us to understand how water flows toward the stream network of larger catchments. However, little of this detailed knowledge is used in hydrological models because the calibration of simple models already leads to good runoff simulations. Furthermore, not all hillslope locations contribute equally to catchment runoff and in some cases, hillslopes or specific hillslope locations may seem irrelevant for the catchment scale runoff response, at least until a certain threshold is crossed. It is essential to consider these thresholds because climate or land use change may cause them to be passed more frequently in the future, so models based on historic runoff data might no longer accurately predict the catchment runoff response. In this talk, I will provide examples of such thresholds and discuss the need to consider connectivity between landscape elements when interpreting the streamflow or stream chemistry response at the catchment scale. In doing so, I will highlight the need to understand hydrological processes at the plot and hillslope scales for predicting catchment-scale runoff, even if these processes may seem irrelevant at first.
Shedding light on the devastating floods in June 1897 in Romania: early instrumental observations and synoptic analysis
Authors: Nagavciuc Viorica , Ionita Monica , Beudean Marius , Nagavciuc Irina
Published: March 2024

Information about past floods and historical precipitation records is fundamental to the management of water resources, but observational records usually cover only 100–150 years. Using several different data sources, such as newly digitized meteorological data from several stations in the south-eastern part of Romania, historical newspapers of that time, and daily reanalysis of large-scale data, here we provide a detailed analysis of the atmospheric circulation conditions associated with one of the most devastating flood events which took place in June 1897. The floods in June 1897 were one of the most devastating natural disasters in Romania's history and they were caused by heavy rainfall that started at the beginning of May and continued for several weeks, resulting in widespread flooding, especially in the eastern part of the country. The most affected areas were the cities of Braila of Galati, located on the main course of the Danube River, where the floods caused extensive damage to infrastructure, including homes, bridges, and roads, and disrupted transportation and communication networks. The heavy rainfall events occurring in June 1897 and the associated flood peak were triggered by intrusions of high Potential Vorticity (PV) anomalies toward the southeastern part of Europe, persistent and pivotal cut-off lows over the analyzed region, and increased water vapor transport over the south-eastern part of Romania. We argue that digitizing and analyzing old meteorological records enables researchers to better understand the Earth's climate system and make more accurate predictions about future climate change. 
Petrology and Geochemistry of the Kula Volcanic Field, Western Turkey
Authors: Watfa Megan , Anguilano Lorna , Collins Philip , Forni Francesca , Moroni Marilena
Published: March 2024

Small-scale monogenetic volcanic systems are the most widespread type of volcanism we experience on Earth and occur in a range of different tectonic settings, including intraplate, extensional, and subduction-related plate tectonics. Formed by a single surface eruption where small batches of magma erupt effusively and explosively, these features present a range of characteristics, including eruption frequency, volume, and duration, which can be linked to local and regional tectonic regimes. This volcanism is represented by tens to hundreds of associated volcanic vents where lava can unexpectedly penetrate the crust, with a new vent forming in an unknown location. Monogenetic volcanic fields (MVFs) are incredibly important to study, as each vent represents the pathway for magma to the upper mantle. These structures however are incredibly understudied and poorly constrained in terms of volcanic eruptive histories, and questions about the origin, longevity, and spatial distribution of vents are subject to uncertainty.A wonderful example of where this can be investigated is the Kula Volcanic Province (KVP) in Anatolia, Western Turkey, exhibiting three periods of Quaternary basaltic volcanism between 2 Ma and 10 Ka. The three periods, namely the Burgaz, Elekçitepe, and DivlitTepe have been identified as silica-undersaturated alkaline volcanism exhibited as cinder cones, parasitic cones, spatter cones, lava flows, lava tunnels and maars. Turkey is situated in one of the most seismically active regions of the world, with Western Turkey one of the most spectacular regions of widespread active continental extension. The Kula volcanics are Na-dominant in character whereas other older volcanic rocks of Western Anatolia are generally definitive K-dominant rocks, representing a unique example of volcanism, and a rationale to investigate the significant geochemical signatures.Within this study, we present new petrological and geochemical data (XRF, XRD, SEM) between magma products from the different eruptive periods, and provide an inclusive textural, chemical, and elemental investigation evaluating magma chamber dynamics, as well as exploring the temporal and spatial variations of the 80+ volcanic cones.  In addition to this, we plan to further use core and rim analysis of the main mineral phases to identify compositional variations of major (EPMA) and trace (LA-ICP-MS) elements which will be used to develop geochemical diagrams showing the relationships between specific elements and infer any geochemical processes that may have occurred.This work aims to contribute to understanding future volcanic scenarios for intraplate volcanism which can be applied to other comparable tectonic environments and is a fundamental rationale for understanding magma chamber processes such as magma generation, magma evolution, crystallisation pathway, and likely tectonic environment.
The role of shading on biometeorological conditions in the historic centre of Prague, Czech Republic.
Authors: Chlapcová Lucie , Urban Aleš , Kyselý Jan
Published: March 2024

Prague is the capital and the largest city of the Czech Republic and its historic centre near the Vltava river is a popular tourist destination. Especially the area along the right bank of the Vltava river, called Náplavka, is one of the most popular locations to visit during the summer months due to many social and cultural events that take place here. However, given the north-south orientation of the Vltava river and the lack of greenery and shade in this area, the question arises as to what extent thermal conditions are comfortable during hot summer days at Náplavka. Many previous studies have shown that the presence of greenery and shade is essential for reducing the heat stress in the streets.In this study we assessed the effect of shading on biometeorological conditions at eight different measuring sites located along a loop between Charles Square and the Náplavka riverbank. Meteorological parameters (including air temperature, relative humidity, wind speed, Heat Index, Wet-Bulb Globe Temperature) were measured and recorded using the Kestrel 5400 portable tool, every two hours between 8:00 a.m. and 6:00 p.m. CEST on 9 days during summer in 2019 and on 5 days in 2022. In addition, fisheye photographs were taken at each location to quantify the effect of shading. From these data, we calculated advanced thermal comfort indices (Physiologically Equivalent Temperature, Universal Thermal Climate Index) and Sky View Factor (SVF) in the RayMan Pro program. We compared measured data from all sites under different weather conditions between 2019 and 2022, and assessed the evolution of heat stress during the day as a function of shading at each site.Our results showed that while in the morning Náplavka’s biometeorological conditions were most comfortable among all measurement sites, they became most stressful in the afternoon. The analysis of the fisheye images showed that the lack of greenery and shading at Náplavka contributed significantly to the high heat stress levels. Our results suggest that the relocation of day-long events from Náplavka to other locations (e.g. a park at Charles Square) should be considered and/or adequate sun protection should be provided on hot summer days.
Multi-wavelength Observations of Jupiter’s Northern Circumpolar Cyclones
Authors: Bolton Scott , Brueshaber Shawn , Orton Glenn , Hansen Candy , Levin Steve , Mura Alessandro , Grassi Davide , Fletcher Leigh , Rogers John , Eichstädt Gerald , Wong Mike , Ingersoll Andy , Ermakov Anton , Li Cheng
Published: March 2024

Juno arrived at Jupiter in 2016 and was inserted into a polar orbit with its closest approach (“perijove”) near Jupiter’s equator.  One of Juno’s first major discoveries was the existence of circumpolar cyclones covering both of Jupiter’s poles. Over the course of Juno’s prime and extended missions, the line of apsides of the orbit has experienced a constant northward migration due to Jupiter’s asymmetric gravity field. One result of this migration is the lowering the spacecraft’s altitude over Jupiter’s north pole.  Recently, the altitude over the north pole has reduced sufficiently to allow Juno’s microwave radiometer (MWR) to resolve Jupiter’s circumpolar cyclones.  The observations provide new insights into how the circumpolar cyclones evolve with depth.  We will present results from multi-wavelength observations of Jupiter’s polar cyclones including visible light images (JunoCam), the infrared images (JIRAM) and microwave images (MWR).  The combined data set reveals information on how the circumpolar cyclones compare and evolve with depth. 
Inversions of anthropogenic CO2 emissions using CTDAS-WRF over Greece in the East Mediterranean.
Authors: Gialesakis Nikos , Daskalakis Nikos , Reum Friedemann , Vrekoussis Mihalis , Kanakidou Maria
Published: March 2024

The Eastern Mediterranean experiences a rapid acceleration of climate warming mainly due to the continuous growth of greenhouse gases (GHG) in the atmosphere. Carbon dioxide (CO2) is a key contributor to the human-induced greenhouse effect due to its long lifetime and high atmospheric concentrations. With its levels continuing to rise, the need to mitigate its emissions is of utmost importance. Towards this direction, atmospheric models are used to assess the influence of emissions on atmospheric composition. Emission fields used in models, called bottom-up emission inventories, provide information on the amounts and the distribution of the emitted pollutants. However, these emissions are coupled with large uncertainties at small spatiotemporal scales. Therefore, optimization of these emission estimates is needed to increase accuracy and thus support the identification of targets for emission reduction. In this study, we are optimizing the anthropogenic emissions of CO2 over Greece by using the data assimilation system CTDAS-WRF (Carbon Tracker Data Assimilation Shell) that uses an Ensemble Kalman filter data assimilation method. As a forward model, we use WRF-CHEM with the GHG mechanism that allows passive tracer transport of CO2. The sum of emissions from all different anthropogenic sectors from the CAMS anthropogenic emission inventory (CAMS-GLOB-ANT 5.3) is used as input to the model, in addition to biogenic (VPRM) and biomass burning emissions (FINN 2.5). The simulations are then compared to in-situ, FTIR and satellite observations of CO2 that have been assimilated by CTDAS. The differences between the observations and the simulations are assumed to be only due to the uncertainty of the anthropogenic emissions. Therefore, our system is optimizing only these emissions. Preliminary results show the largest underestimates by the bottom-up inventories over the city of Athens.
Future Precipitation Changes in North America in a Warmer Climate
Authors: Liang Wengui , Zhao Ming
Published: March 2024

Future predictions in regional precipitation changes under global warming have heavily relied on the climate model simulations. Understanding the physical mechanisms of future hydroclimate changes in responses to different forcings will help improve our confidence in the model projections. Here we investigated the future precipitation changes in North America using the high-resolution(~50km) climate model GFDL-AM4, alongside other CFMIP models. We analyzed both the mean and extreme precipitation changes in the region during different seasons in response to distinct forcings: quadruple CO2, uniform SST warming, and a more realistic SST warming pattern. We noticed that the precipitation changes in North America are more sensitive to CO2 forcing in the summer than in the winter. The overall precipitation tends to decrease due to CO2 forcings and increases due to uniform warming. We will demonstrate the physical mechanisms of how CO2 suppresses the precipitation in the summer and how warmer climate can amplify the precipitation in most North American regions. To address uncertainties in future hydroclimate projections for North America, we will leverage multiple CFMIP models, providing a robust evaluation of model reliability in predicting these changes.
Comprehensive geospatial assessment of the soil microbiome’s response to temperature and moisture in interior Alaska, USA
Authors: Barbato Robyn , Doherty Stacey , Letcher Theodore , Vas Dragos , Parno Julie
Published: March 2024

As global temperatures rise, soil fractions of organic matter are being subjected to microbial degradation, particularly in high latitude regions.  Concurrently, permafrost perched below active layer soils is thawing at unprecedented rates, significantly altering landscapes and ecosystem trajectories by changing subsurface conditions and vegetation characteristics. Our aim was to investigate an Alaskan soil microbiome’s response to changes in temperature and water potential because they are well established factors that influence microbial activity and could be predicted using remote sensing data and weather forecasts.  The extent of microbial change in the seasonally thawed active layer remains poorly understood.  To address this, we studied the physical and microbiological properties of two permafrost-affected surface soils in interior Alaska primarily composed of deciduous forests, coniferous forests, and woody wetlands.  We collected soils for laboratory incubation studies where we measured respiration and microbial taxonomy from replicate microcosms experiencing four temperatures and five matric potentials.  Soil respiration rates from the soils varied according to temperature and moisture, with soils exposed to warmer, wetter conditions exhibiting the highest respiration rates (e.g. 0.23 or 0.70 µg C-CO2 g-1 dry soil h-1) and soils exposed to colder, drier conditions exhibiting lower respiration rates (e.g. 0.03 or 0.1 µg C-CO2 g-1 dry soil h-1).   In the field, we measured soil temperature, moisture, and respiration at the sites where the soils were initially collected.  Surface soil temperatures measured at the sites ranged from -25°C in the winter months to +25°C in the summer months.  These values were compared to geospatial estimates of temperature and soil moisture that were used to calculate soil respiration rates.  The estimated respiration values will be compared to field measurements to determine the efficacy of the model.  Additionally, respiration estimates will be calculated under a future climate scenario.  These findings have important implications for developing accurate forecasts of microbial community assemblages during thaw in that location should be considered as a strong influencing factor. 
Interdisciplinary Insights into Urban Climate Governance: Navigating Complexities Through Collaborative Strategies
Authors: Dias Carneiro Barbara , Isidoro Losada Ana María , Schreurs Miranda , Kee Kaayin
Published: March 2024

The research presented in this paper underscores the profound importance of interdisciplinary collaboration, particularly between the realms of social sciences and natural sciences, in addressing the complex challenges of urban climate governance. The study, focused on the experiences of Paris, Munich, and Zurich, highlights the intricate multi-level governance structures inherent in these cities and the interactions between diverse stakeholders involved in shaping and implementing climate strategies. By employing a combination of interviews, document analysis, and event visits, the research not only illuminates the increasing complexity of interactions between different stakeholders but also accentuates the necessity for collaboration between social scientists and natural scientists. These collaborations extend beyond traditional relationships with higher levels of government, encompassing intra-city collaborations and engagements with science, businesses, and civil society.In the context of the broader theme of environmental issues, the paper contributes to the discourse by emphasizing that effective solutions require a comprehensive and holistic understanding. It underscores that the integration of social science expertise with environmental research, and vice versa, is essential for developing innovative and sustainable solutions. The challenges faced by the cities in achieving ambitious climate goals stress the urgency of bridging the gap between disciplines.In conclusion, this research contributes to the broader discourse on interdisciplinary collaboration by highlighting the evolving nature of urban climate governance and the importance of effective interaction among various stakeholders. It reaffirms the need for a comprehensive understanding of environmental problems and their solutions, emphasizing the significance of multi-level governance in contributing positively to the attainment of climate goals. The insights presented here align with the call for contributions that explore the synergy between social science and environmental research, fostering meaningful discussions and exchange of ideas across different perspectives and domains.
Analyzing Zooplankton grazing spatial variability in the Southern Ocean using deep learning
Authors: Navarra Gian Giacomo , Sane Aakash , Deutsch Curtis
Published: March 2024

To elucidate the complex dynamics of zooplankton grazing and its impact on the organic carbon pump, we leveraged machine learning algorithms to analyze extensive datasets encompassing zooplankton behavior, environmental variables, and carbon flux measurements. Specifically, we employed regression models to establish predictive relationships between zooplankton grazing rates and key environmental factors, such as Potential Temperature, Sea Ice extension and iron availability.The results demonstrate the potential of machine learning in discerning patterns and nonlinear relationships within the data, offering insights into the factors influencing zooplankton grazing dynamics. Additionally, the models provide a predictive framework to estimate the contribution of zooplankton to the organic carbon pump under varying environmental conditions. We have further analyzed the results by using two explainable AI methods, the Layer Wise Relevance Propagation and Integrated Gradients that informs which physical variables contribute to the prediction.This research contributes to our understanding of the intricate processes governing carbon sequestration in the ocean, with implications for climate change mitigation and marine ecosystem management. Machine learning techniques assists to unravel the complexities of zooplankton-mediated carbon flux, to unravel the complexities of zooplankton-mediated carbon flux, paving the way for more accurate predictions and proactive conservation strategies in the face of global environmental changes.
Using lipid biomarker signatures to reconstruct marine primary production in the Iberian Margin over the last millennium
Authors: Gebara M.S. Cordeiro Lívia , S. Carreira Renato , Ferreira Fernanda , A. Rodrigues Teresa , F. Abrantes Fátima
Published: March 2024

Despite efforts to understand the response of marine ecosystems to the impact of climate variability in the Iberian Margin [1-6], the effects of warming on phytoplankton community composition and total primary production remain an open question. Here, we present a high-resolution record of sediment-preserved lipids from the Iberian Margin (IM) over the last millennium, with special attention to the modern rise in atmospheric CO2. To address the temporal variation of marine primary production and terrestrial organic matter input, we studied GC-MS/FID-determined lipid compounds from cores PO287-06-2G (off the Douro River in the northern IM), PO287-26-3G (off the Tagus River in the central IM) and POPEI-VC2B (on the Algarve continental shelf in the southern IM). Lipids of typical marine origin (C27, C28, and C30 sterols, phytol, and C37 and C38 alkenones) and of typical terrestrial origin (odd long-chain n-alkanes nC21-nC35 and even long-chain n-alcohols C22OH-C32OH) were evaluated. As proxies for specific phytoplankton groups, we used the signatures of 4α-23,24-trimethyl-5α-cholest-22(E)-en-3β-ol (30d22 sterol) for dinoflagellates, 24-methylcholesta-5,22-dien-3β-ol (28d5,22 sterol) for diatoms and heptatriaconta-15E,22E-diene-2-one (C37:2 alkenone) for coccolithophores. The results showed a significant difference between the northern, central, and southern sites of the Iberian Margin, caused by the different regional environmental factors in each area. Higher concentrations of lipids are observed off Douro River, there is a higher relative contribution of cholesterol off Tagus River, suggesting the importance of zooplanktonic production in the central area, and there is a higher contribution of coccolithophores lipid signatures in the Algarve continental shelf. In terms of temporal variability, there is an alternation between coccolithophores and dinoflagellates lipid signatures over the millennium, with significant diatom sterol signatures at specific ages of the Industrial Era (since 1850 CE) and in the early MCA (900-1100 CE) for all sites. The temporal variability is most likely driven by changes in local and hemispheric ocean circulation and coastal upwelling conditions in the Iberian Margin.References: [1] Abrantes et al., 2017; [2] Abrantes et al., 2011; [3] Salgueiro et al, 2008; [4] Ribeiro and Amorim 2008; [5] Abrantes 2000; [6] Rodrigues et al., 2009
A top-down assessment of CO2 and CH4 atmospheric variability and emission sources in the Aix-Marseille metropolis area, France.
Authors: Xueref-Remy Irène , Lelandais Ludovic , Riandet Aurélie , Blanc Pierre-Eric , Armengaud Alexandre , Oppo Sonia , Gille Gregory , Palstra Sanne , Scheeren Bert , Chen Huilin , Kers Bert , Bosio Pauline , Dufresne Marvin , Sauvage Stéphane , Salameh Thérèse
Published: March 2024

The Aix-Marseille metropolis is the second most populated urbanized area of France. It aims at reaching carbon neutrality in 2050. Located in the south-east of France under a Mediterranean climate, this area is known as a hot-spot regarding climate change. Its west part is strongly industrialized. The local air quality monitoring agency  ATMOSUD delivers a high resolved greenhouse gas emissions inventory that represents the reference for local stakeholders in matter of emissions trajectory. However, this inventory is still quite uncertain and requires independent assessments. In this aim, in the framework of the ANR COoL-AMmetropolis projet (2019-2025) we set-up a local greenhouse gas monitoring network based on Cavity Ring Down Spectrometry analyzers. This local network comprises the OHP ICOS-France station, located 80 km north of Marseille city. Local meteorological features such as sea and land breezes impact local greenhouse gas concentrations through advection and boundary layer dynamical processes. Isotopic analysis of 14C and 13C in CO2, as well as CO2 correlations with NOx, CO, black carbon and SO2, show a strong impact of fossil fuel emissions on the CO2 local urban greenhouse gas atmospheric plumes. The identified fossil sources are mostly traffic, building, industrial and maritime activities. Modern sources such as wood burning may account for a larger part than assessed by the local inventory.