bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Prospects for development of a climate service system in Ukraine
Authors: Stepanenko Sergiy , Shablii Oleh , Khomenko Inna
Published: February 2023

Adaptation to climate change and mitigation of its consequences is one of the goals of sustainable development. Therefore, one of the main priorities of national hydrometeorological services is elaboration of climate service systems at the national level. The global framework for climate services established in 2009 provided a powerful impulse for development of such services in many countries including Ukraine.It is for establishment of the national climate services in Ukraine that the Erasmus+ ClimEd (Multilevel Local, Nation- and Regionwide Education and Training in Climate Services, Climate Change Adaptation and Mitigation; http://climed.network) project was initiated and supported by the European Union. One of the ClimEd main objectives is to determine a competence base for development of climate educational courses on climate with the content that meets the expectations and requirements of both the national and international legislation and the needs of climate-dependent sectors of Ukrainian economy.To determine the requirements of various sectors of the economy for climate information as well as to comprehend the nature and extent of its use in their daily and planned activities, 297 respondents were interviewed. The surveys covered 7 sectors of the economy such as healthcare, urban management, water management, energy, agriculture, civil engineering and architecture, nature conservation. Several international transdisciplinary discussion panels, the international scientific and practical conference “Climate Services: Science and Education” and the 2nd All-Ukrainian Hydrometeorological Congress were held. These allowed to adapt the surveys’ results to national and international standards in the field of the climate education. To learn and follow the best European Universities educational practices, three trainings were held (see details at http://climed.network/events/climed-trainings). Moreover, 48 representatives of the Hydrometeorological Service of Ukraine were also interviewed as well as meetings with discussions were held with the heads of Ukrainian regional hydrometeorological centers. This allowed to assess the needs for modernisation the Ukrainian National Meteorological Service. In principle, all these obtained results can be updated annually and used for future continuous modernisation of the climate related educational system and for its effective response to demands of the modern labour market.Although the ClimEd project has been temporarily suspended (Feb 2022 - Aug 2023), development of educational and teaching materials will be resumed starting autumn 2023. Such materials are crucially important for: continual and comprehensive professional training of specialists in the field of climate services, inter- and transdisciplinary training of specialists in climate-dependent sectors of the economy, and decision-makers in the field of climate change and climate adaptation.
Evidence of localised Amazon rainforest dieback in CMIP6 models
Authors: Parry Isobel , Ritchie Paul , Cox Peter
Published: February 2023

Amazon forest dieback is seen as a potential tipping point under climate change. These concerns are partly based-on an early coupled climate-carbon cycle simulation that produced unusually strong drying and warming in Amazonia. In contrast, the 5th generation Earth System Models (CMIP5) produced few examples of Amazon dieback under climate change. This presentation examines the results from seven 6th generation models (CMIP6) which include interactive vegetation carbon, and in some cases interactive forest fires. Although these models typically project increases in area-mean forest carbon across Amazonia under CO2-induced climate change, five of the seven models also produce abrupt reductions in vegetation carbon which indicate localised dieback events. The Northern South America region (NSA), which contains most of the rainforest, is especially vulnerable in the models. These dieback events, some of which are mediated by fire, are preceded by an increase in the amplitude of the seasonal cycle in near surface temperature, which is consistent with more extreme dry seasons. Based on the ensemble mean of the detected dieback events we estimate that 7+/-5% of the NSA region will experience abrupt downward shifts in vegetation carbon for every degree of global warming past 1.5°C.
Systematic assessment of climate tipping points
Authors: Loriani Sina , Sakschewski Boris , Donges Jonathan , Winkelmann Ricarda
Published: February 2023

Tipping elements constitute one high-risk aspect of anthropogenic climate change - after their critical thresholds are passed, self-amplifying feedbacks can drive parts of the Earth system into a different state, potentially abruptly and/or irreversibly. A variety of models of different complexity shows these dynamics in many systems, ranging from vegetation over ocean circulations to ice sheets. This growing body of evidence supports our understanding of  potential climate tipping points, their interactions and impacts. However, a systematic assessment of Earth system tipping points and their uncertainties in a dedicated model intercomparison project is of yet missing. Here we illustrate the steps towards automatically detecting abrupt shifts and tipping points in model simulations, as well as a standardised evaluation scheme for the Tipping Point Model Intercomparison Project (TIPMIP). To this end, the model outputs of taylored numerical experiments are screened for potential tipping dynamics and spatially clustered in a bottom-up approach. The methodology is guided by the anticipated setup of the intercomparison project, and in turn contributes to the design of the TIPMIP protocol.
Chicxulub Impact Predates the KPB Mass Extinction by 200-230 kyr;Deccan Volcanism, Mercury and Climate change are main causes
Authors: Keller Gerta , Grasby Stephen , Adatte Thierry
Published: February 2023

Discovery of impact glass in deep water at El Penon, NE Mexico, revealed a 2m thick impact spherule deposit during excavation of an 8m thick late Maastrichtian sequence [1]. The impact spherules are pristine and undisturbed in the late Maastrichtian. Marly sediments prevailed at the base followed mainly by small rip-up clasts overlain by a 10cm thick layer, which consists only of amorphous molten glass containing occasional planktic foraminifera. Large impact glass spherules 3-5mm in size followed and gradually reduced in size. Up-section the impact spherule size gradually reduced (2mm) but remained abundant and devoid of sediments. Near the top, spherules reduced in size and abundance mixed with marls, ending the impact deposit quietly. Marls and marly limestones followed. Preliminary age determinations identified the impact based on various indicators. 1) Biostratigraphy: First appearance of planktic foraminifer Plummerita hantkeninoides zone CF1 age ~200-kyr pre-KPB. 2) U-Pb dating of Deccan volcanism ~230-kyr pre-KPB. 3) Mercury anomalies of Deccan volcanism EE6 ~215-kyr pre-KPB. 4) Cyclostratigraphy ~230-kyr pre-KPB[2]. Impact glass spherules are ubiquitous in the late Maastrichtian of NE Mexico and the impact is believed to be the source. But these spherules are almost always reworked from older into younger sediments, which eliminates age control. Nevertheless, the reworked Chicxulub impact spherules were always believed the source – but this is no longer tenable. The discovery of pristine impact spherules in NE Mexico at the much older age of 200-kyr to 230-kyr places the Chicxulub impact outside the realm of the KPB mass extinction. However, we know since 2003 the Chicxulub crater predates the KPB, although this fact was always neglected. New mercury data from a dozen localities in NE Mexico reveals further evidence that the Chicxulub impact is linked to the older impact crater. Our data supports Deccan volcanism as primary cause for the KPB mass extinction.  References:[1] Keller et al., 2009, Journal of the Geological Society, London[2] Keller et al., 2020, Global Planetary Change 
Tracing ocean circulation using neodymium isotopes – promises and limitations
Authors: Pahnke Katharina , Struve Torben , Sutorius Mika , Waltemathe Henning , Zander Martin
Published: February 2023

Neodymium (Nd) isotopes have been applied for decades now to trace ocean circulation both in the present and past oceans. Their tracer utility stems from the characteristic Nd isotope signature of different rocks and their imprint on seawater as well as the biological inactivity of Nd and its appropriate residence time in the ocean, allowing for the determination of water mass provenance and flow paths. However, the application of this tracer, especially for the reconstruction of past ocean circulation changes, has been challenged based on uncertainties e. g. in the magnitude of the benthic flux of Nd to deep waters, Nd isotope exchange and input at ocean margins, and diagenetic alterations of the original bottom water Nd isotope signature in sediments.Based on recent studies of dissolved Nd isotope distributions in surface to deep waters we show the power of Nd isotopes for tracing the provenance of currents and water masses particularly within restricted geographic regions. Using additional trace metal and isotope data from marine sediments analyzed alongside authigenic Nd isotopes, we explore the validity and limits of Nd isotopes as tracer of past ocean circulation changes.
Deciphering drainage reorganization in the NE Tibet: Insights from 50 Ma-long solute Sr isotopic records of Cenozoic lacustrine-fluvial sequences
Authors: Liu Yudong , Yang Yibo , Fang Xiaomin , Song Bowen
Published: February 2023

Drainage evolution and source-to-sink history across the Tibetan plateau and the surroundings as the consequence of changes in landscape and climate, provide a window to understand the growth of the Tibetan Plateau and its environmental impacts. Previous studies focus mostly on the reconstruction of siliciclastic sediment, but less on the dissolved load that displays distinct transport dynamics. Here we provide a solute perspective for deciphering source-to-sink history in NE Tibet through the carbonate 87Sr/86Sr ratio. The modern observations around NE Tibet exhibit a remarkable contrast of the solute Sr isotopic regime. That is, the Qilian Shan supplies high 87Sr/86Sr ratios caused by the exhumation of high-grade metamorphic rocks, while the East Kunlun Shan and West Qinling provide low 87Sr/86Sr ratios.Here, we reconstruct solute Sr evolution of basin paleowater using bulk carbonate from parallel lacustrine and fluvial sections in the Qaidam, Lanzhou, and Xining Basins, NE Tibet. In the Qaidam Basin, solute 87Sr/86Sr ratios of the paleo-Qaidam Lake and fluvial sediments remain constant at ~0.713 in most Cenozoic periods, indicating that the solute Sr sourced solely from the Qilian Shan. But two low 87Sr/86Sr ratio periods at ~44.5 - ~32 Ma and after ~16 Ma might be caused by hydrological connections between the northern source (Qilian Shan) and the southern source (dominantly from East Kunlun Shan) in the Paleogene western basin and Neogene eastern basin, respectively. The two time periods correspond to two stages of the paleo-Qaidam Lake that developed following a south-eastward migration of basin depocenter due to the tectonic evolution of the surrounding mountains.In the Lanzhou and Xining Basins, 87Sr/86Sr ratios of the paleo-Longzhong Lake and fluvial sediments maintained similarly low values and turned into an increase after ~32 Ma, reflecting an elevated proportion of solute supply from high 87Sr/86Sr source area, i.e., Qilian material input. A diverse evolution of solute 87Sr/86Sr ratio in the Lanzhou and Xining Basins after ca. 25-23 Ma, suggests that there was a drainage reorganization in response to the growth of NE Tibet. Our study implies that radiogenic Sr is a useful proxy for tracing drainage adjustment in response to large-scale tectonics.
Global pathways to achieve universal electricity access in 203
Authors: Zapata Victhalia , Dagnachew Anteneh , Edelenbosch Oreane , van Vuuren Detlef
Published: February 2023

There are 770 million people without access to electricity globally, and 77% live in Sub-Sahara Africa (SSA). If the current electrification trends continue, IEA projections indicate that still 670 million people will lack electricity access by 2030, meaning that the SDG7.1 goal of achieving universal electricity access will not be achieved with current policies. Most of the research on optimal solutions for achieving SDG7.1 is focused on SSA. However, a nonnegligible number of people still lack access in other regions; therefore, a global perspective is important. This work aims to spatially analyze the least-cost strategies for achieving universal electricity access globally, the investment needed, and the synergies with climate change mitigation. Optimal least-cost solutions vary depending on the local situation. For instance, the cost of in-situ systems depends on the spatial spread of households, local energy demand and resource availability. Therefore, high-resolution (HR) spatial assessment is needed, also for integrated global analysis.For this research, we build upon the work of Dagnachew et al. for SSA and expand the scope to global. The model is updated and re-coded for open-source access, and the spatial resolution has been increased from 30’ x 30’ to 5’x 5’. The levelized cost (LCOE) for eleven plausible electrification solutions is assessed per grid cell worldwide to select the least-cost option. They can be summarized in three categories: central grid extension and two off-grid options, stand-alone and mini-grid systems. A central grid connection is the solution that usually offers the largest security of supply. However, for remote areas, the high cost of grid extension justifies prioritizing off-grid solutions. Mini-grids consist of small powerplant (s) that feed electricity into a distribution grid. It is the most reliable off-grid option and can be built ready for future grid connection.The main factors influencing LCOE are socio-geographic conditions and potential local energy resources for wind and solar. The socio-geographic factors are annual electricity use per household, obtained from the integrated assessment model IMAGE, population density translated into the number of households per grid cell, population dispersion within the grid cells and urban/rural rates. Another important factor is the distance to the central grid, assessed per grid cell (5’x5’ resolution) and determines the cost of grid extension. Preliminary results indicate that after optimizing for the lowest cost, central grid densification is the most suitable option for most people currently lacking access. Photovoltaic systems are used the most for the off-grid options, combined with diesel for mini-grids and in solar home systems. Total investment for the SSA region for achieving SDG7.1 is estimated at around 600 billion.
Analysis of ice shelf front dynamics in Pine Island Bay (Antarctica) based on long-term SAR time series and deep learning
Authors: Wagner Luisa , Baumhoer Celia , Dietz Andreas , Kuenzer Claudia , Ullmann Tobias
Published: February 2023

Ice shelves, the floating extensions of glaciers and ice sheets, create a safety band around Antarctica. They control the flow of ice that drains into the ocean by buttressing the upstream grounded ice. Loss of ice shelf stability and integrity results in reduced buttressing and leads to increased discharge contributing to global sea level rise. Therefore, it is important to monitor ice shelf dynamics to accurately estimate future sea level rise.
So far, the potential of SAR data has not yet been full exhausted as data of early SAR satellites has only been used to a very limited extent for calving front monitoring. To fill this research gap, we made use of the entire ERS and Envisat archive within West Antarctic Pine Island Bay, a region that requires particular attention due to drastic ongoing changes. A 20-year time series (1992-2011) of ice shelf front dynamics was derived based on a deep neural network architecture that combines segmentation and edge detection. By testing different data preparation, training and post-processing configurations we identified the best performing model for ERS and Envisat data. This includes transfer learning based on a model originally trained on Sentinel-1 data and post-processing with filtering and temporal compositing to remove artefacts from geolocation errors and limited data availability.
The resulting product of yearly, half-year and monthly ice shelf front positions reveals individual dynamic patterns for all five investigated ice shelves. The most considerable fluctuations were found for Pine Island Ice Shelf in terms of frequency of calving events (multiple cycles of calving and re-advance) and Thwaites ice tongue in terms of size of break-up (80 km retreat in early 2002). Despite different change rates and magnitudes, most ice shelves show similar signs of destabilisation. This manifests through retreating front positions and changing ice shelf geometries. Signs of weakening appear in the form of fracturing, disintegration events and loss of connection to lateral confinements.
Ecological restoration of post-extracted peatland in Canada. A comparative approach of the vegetation community between restored and natural peatland
Authors: Breton Gwendal , Guêné-Nanchen Mélina , Rochefort Line
Published: February 2023

Canada is a leading producer, and exporter of peat used for horticultural purposes. Nevertheless, in that context, peat extraction requires the removal of vegetation and the drainage of Sphagnum-dominated peatlands causing disturbances of hydrological regimes and the disappearance of biodiversity as well as most ecosystems services. Moreover, when peat extraction is over, the formerly extracted peatlands become a source of greenhouse gases due to the oxidation of residual peat. Without human intervention, horticultural post-extracted peatlands will almost never return to their original pre-disturbance state. In order to solve this ecological problem, the Peatland Ecology Research Group (PERG) developed in the late 1990s an active ecological restoration method better known as the Moss Layer Transfer Technique (MLTT). Thus, the MLTT allows not only to restore the specific hydrology, but also to restore the Sphagnum carpet as well as typical peatland vegetation communities. Given the effectiveness of the MLTT to restore Sphagnum-dominated peatlands in a short period of time, it is now necessary to clarify and define the notion of a successful peatland restoration work. To achieve this, the present research project uses a fundamental tool of the science of ecological restoration embodied by the reference ecosystem. Consequently, the use of a reference set perform by natural peatlands makes it possible, through the intermediary of the vegetation communities, to appreciate the similarity or the ecological distance of the restored peatlands according to the time up since the restoration. This research work thus underlines the capacity of the MLTT to restore functional peatlands ecosystems on the basis of certain foundations taught by ecological restoration in the context of global climate change and erosion of biodiversity.
Impact of mean sea level rise in the Rias Baixas hydrodynamics (NW Iberian Peninsula)
Authors: Ribeiro Clara , Sousa Magda Catarina , Lopes Carina Lurdes , Álvarez Inés , Dias João Miguel
Published: February 2023

Mean sea level rise is currently a growing and prominent consequence of climate change. The increase in the mean sea level poses a significant threat to low-lying coastal areas that often present high economic and biological value. Recent studies also show that tidal propagation in estuarine systems will be altered due to climate change, intensifying the threat it poses to these systems. The Rias Baixas located in the NW of the Iberian Peninsula, as well as the rest of the Galician coast, are areas of high primary production susceptible to alterations in their hydrodynamics induced by climate change,  negatively impacting the system.In this context, this study aims to validate a hydrodynamic model of the Rias Baixas and to analyse the effect of mean sea level rise in the local hydrodynamics. The methodology followed comprises the application of a three-dimensional numerical model (Delft3D), with realistic bathymetry and coastline of the NW Iberian Peninsula including the Rias Baixas. The model considers the main physical processes and the main features of circulation. Ambient shelf conditions include TOPEX global tidal solution.Firstly, the model validation was done through a qualitative and quantitative analysis. The qualitative analysis was done through a visual comparison between model results and observed time series of the water level in several sampling stations, showing good agreement. The quantitative analysis aims to assess the model performance, through the determination of the root mean square error between model results and observations and of the harmonic constituents from both types of data series. After the model validation, the main semidiurnal and diurnal constituents as well as the tidal current magnitude were determined for Ria Baixas for three mean sea level scenarios: present mean sea level and two future scenarios from CMIP6, a more optimistic one (SSP1 - 2.6) and a more pessimistic one (SSP5 - 8.5).The model results show that the amplitude of the main semidiurnal and diurnal constituents will decreases for future scenarios, whereas the respective phase increases towards the head of the Rias. The results also highlight that tidal current magnitude generally increases with mean sea level rise for future scenarios, although a slight decrease was found at the upstream areas of the Ria Baixas.Funding: We acknowledge financial support to CESAM by FCT/MCTES (UIDP/50017/2020+UIDB/50017/2020+ LA/P/0094/2020) through national funds.
Is Arctic Permafrost a Climate Tipping Element? – Potentials for Rapid Permafrost Loss Across Spatial Scales
Authors: Nitzbon Jan , Schneider von Deimling Thomas , Chadburn Sarah , Grosse Guido , Laboor Sebastian , Lee Hanna , Steinert Norman Julius , Stuenzi Simone Maria , Westermann Sebastian , Langer Moritz
Published: February 2023

Arctic permafrost is yet the largest non-seasonal component of Earth's cryosphere and has been proposed as a climate tipping element. Already today, permafrost thaw and ground ice loss have detrimental consequences for Arctic communities and are affecting the global climate via carbon-cycle–feedbacks. However, it is an open question whether climatic changes drive permafrost loss in a way that gives rise to a tipping point, crossing of which would imply abrupt acceleration of thaw and disproportional unfolding of its impacts.Here, we address this question by geospatial analyses and a comprehensive literature review of the mechanisms and feedbacks driving permafrost thaw across spatial scales. We find that neither observation-constrained nor model-based projections of permafrost loss provide evidence for the existence of a global-scale tipping point, and instead suggest a quasi-linear response to global warming. We identify a range of processes that drive rapid permafrost thaw and irreversible ground ice loss on a local scale, but these do not accumulate to a non-linear response beyond regional scales.We emphasize that it is precisely because of this overall linear response, that there is no „safe space“ for Arctic permafrost where its loss could be acceptable. Every additional amount of global warming will proportionally subject additional land areas underlain by permafrost to thaw, implying further local impacts and carbon emissions.
A Deep Model on Jupiter’s Circumpolar Vortices
Authors: Cai Tao , Chan Kwing , Mayr Hans
Published: February 2023

Juno spacecraft has observed large-scale circumpolar vortices on Jupiter’s both poles. It remains unclear how these large-scale vortices are generated and maintained. Here we propose a deep model to explain their formation and maintenance. From numerical simulations, we find that the polygonal patterns of circumpolar vortices can be naturally formed in a deep rotating convection and maintained for a long time. Several processes are involved in the formation of the circumpolar vortices. Small cyclonic vortices are generated from random turbulence in rotating convection at first. Then these small vortices merge and grew bigger to form large-scale cyclones. Finally, the polar beta effect pushes the large-scale cyclones to form a polygonal pattern around the pole. Our model suggests that Jupiter’s circumpolar vortices probably are deeply rooted. This work was supported by the Science and Technology Development Fund, Macau SAR through No. 0156/2019/A3.
Compacted wheel tracks as underestimated structures in water erosion events in agricultural landscapes: Results of a first process-based model application at catchment level.
Authors: Duttmann Rainer , Saggau Philipp , Kuhwald Michael
Published: February 2023

Soil erosion by water is one of the main causes of degradation of arable soils worldwide. Through the degradation of soil functionality and the long-distance effect of polluted soil particles, water erosion can severely limit soil fertility and the condition of aquatic ecosystems. Nowadays, a variety of different soil erosion models are used on different spatial and temporal scales to assess soil erosion risk, identify risk areas and support decision makers in adapting soil protection measures. Field studies show that highly compacted field areas such as wheel tracks, can have a major influence on the extent of soil erosion and runoff, but so far, they are not considered in any model-based soil erosion assessment.The aim of this study is therefore to present an approach for integrating compaction effects of tramlines into process-based soil erosion models. Furthermore, the effects of tramlines on soil erosion and runoff processes within a watershed are to be identified. For this purpose, the soil erosion model EROSION 3D (E3D) was parameterized by accounting for soil conditions of compacted wheel tracks for a watershed in Norther Germany. In a further step, the modelling was conducted for a real heavy rainfall event and calibrated and tested with mapped runoff and soil erosion data. Additionally, a sensitivity analysis of the input parameters was conducted in order to assess soil properties which have a major impact on the model results.The study shows that small-scale features such as tramlines can be integrated into soil erosion models and that this can significantly improves the spatial prediction of runoff and soil erosion. The model results also show that tramline tracks can have a significant contribution (up to 75 %) to total erosion as well as to sediment input into the water network, while bulk density of the wheel tracks is a major factor influencing modelled runoff and soil loss. The model results indicate that tramlines can play a key role in runoff and erosion processes and that the consideration of highly compacted areas in soil erosion assessments in agricultural landscapes is crucial. The results also indicate, that soil conservation measures may need to foster on tramlines and other compacted field areas such as headlands. 
Integrating UAV thermal individual-based images and functional traits to investigate thermal sensitivity of Amazonian forestsE
Authors: Amaral Calil , Docherty Emma , Gloor Emmanuel , Gailbraith David
Published: February 2023

Ongoing global warming threatens to exceed the physiological limits of forests, especially in the tropics, where species operate close to their thermal limits of photosystems. Understanding the relationship between leaf temperature, climatic variables and functional traits is therefore essential to predict the impacts of warming on forest ecology. The climatic safety margins  can be defined as the range of climatic values within which a species in a given environment maintains its physiological functions without risk of severe damage that can ultimately lead to death and are typically computed as the difference between an operational variable of physiological tolerance (e.g. temperature that corresponds to a 50% drop in the quantum photosynthetic efficiency of photosystem II) and a variable of exposure to physiological stress (e.g. maximum leaf temperature). Here, we aim to understand how thermal safety margins vary in response to increased air temperature and water stress at multiple spatial and temporal scales and relate these to species-level functional traits. We present an unprecedented set of surface temperature data measured with Unmanned Aerial Vehicle (UAV) thermal imaging in long-term forest plots in regions subjected to strong seasonal drought and rising temperatures in the southern edge of the Amazon and also for a 20-year drought experiment in northern Amazonia. The data collected includes diurnal patterns of crown temperature collected with UAVs in the dry and wet seasons, climatic variables and functional traits related to thermal and hydraulic tolerance. We examine seasonal variations in canopy temperatures and thermal safety margins and evaluate the extent to which these vary according to canopy structure, leaf size, soil properties and soil moisture availability. Our data provides insights into leaf resilience to warming and factors controlling leaf temperatures in tropical forests. Our results will ultimately help indicate which forest types and species will be better able to cope with future temperature increases.
Rainfall intermittency as a hydrological extreme
Authors: Molini Annalisa
Published: February 2023

Rainfall intermittency is considered a distinctive feature of the hydrological regime of arid regions. Here, the alternation between prolonged dry spells and extreme precipitation events represents a key environmental control that shapes the landscape, ecosystems, and many aspects of human life.

Yet, the alternation between floods and droughts is increasingly becoming a characteristic component of mid-latitude temperate climates and a central feature of hydrological extremes at the global scale.

This contribution analyzes the connection between rainfall intermittency, its temporal scaling laws, and aridity from a climatological perspective. Our central assumption is that rainfall intermittency depends on both fine-scale processes – such as land-atmosphere interactions and the local availability of water and energy – and large-scale climatic forcing and represents a primary climatic forcing across a wide range of spatial and temporal scales.

Through an extensive data set of hourly precipitation data (NOAA US-HPD) covering most Contiguous US, we explore the link between aridity and different intermittency statistics, finding evidence of a well-defined functional relation between intermittency and aridity measures across a wide range of climates.

Our findings provide a framework to better understand future precipitation patterns and trends across a wide range of climates, with major implications for global aridification studies.
Presence of siloxanes in the ambient air of urban Paris during the ACROSS field campaign
Authors: Verma Rulan , Perrier Sebastien , Michoud Vincent , Di Biagio Claudia , Gratien Aline , Hawkins Lelia , D'Anna Barbara , Kammer Julien , Monod Anne , Cantrell Christopher , George Christian , Riva Matthieu
Published: February 2023

Cyclic volatile methyl Siloxanes (cVMS) are a group of silicon-based organic compounds of anthropogenic origin that are found ubiquitously in the ambient air. They find wide application in many industrial, automotive products, consumer, and personal care products such as paints, solvents, adhesives, cosmetics, polymers, etc. About 90% of the environmentally released cyclic siloxanes diffuse directly into the atmosphere. They are high–production volume chemicals with some having an annual production rate of 45 to 227 thousand tons worldwide. Siloxanes have been observed in both urban and rural areas. Among the different siloxanes emitted into the atmosphere hexamethylcyclotrisiloxane (D3), octamethylcyclotetrasiloxane (D4), and decamethylcyclopentasiloxane (D5) are of great importance due to their subsequent concentrations. It should be mentioned that siloxanes are not readily biodegradable which means they can persist in the environment for a long duration. The D4 species has already been identified as a potential persistent organic pollutant (PoPs). D4 and D5 are very persistent and bioaccumulative and have evinced or potential hazards to both humans and the environment.Taking advantage of the Vocus proton-transfer-reaction time-of-flight mass spectrometer (VOCUS PTR–TOF–MS) the D3, D4, and D5 species were measured in real-time downtown Paris in the June–July 2022 period. The measurements were performed during the ACROSS (Atmospheric ChemistRy Of the Suburban foreSt) field campaign at the urban site located at Université Paris Cité (48.83°N, 2.38°E) sampling at about 25 m above the ground level. The data collected during the summer 2022 showed that the mean concentrations were 0.099±0.009, 0.045±0.009, and 0.131±0.089 ppb for D3, D4, and D5, respectively. A strong diurnal cycle was observed for the different siloxanes. Concentrations for the D5 siloxane peaked in the morning with an averaged maximum of 0.298± 0.119 ppb while the 25th and the 75th quantile are 0.221 and 0.377 ppb, respectively. In the afternoon concentrations show a minimum value, followed by a slight increase during the night. The D5 is the most abundant siloxane species and shows the strongest diurnal cycle compared to the other two identified siloxanes. Observations during the campaign and the potential reaction products and sources of siloxanes will be discussed in this work.KEYWORDS: Siloxanes; Cyclic Siloxanes; D3,D4 and D5; Ambient Air; PoPs; ACROSS; HR- Mass Spectrometry; VOCUS PTR-Tof
Integration of non-destructive surveys for BIM-based and structural-verified digital reconstruction of archaeological sites
Authors: Santarelli Roberta , Ten Alessandra
Published: February 2023

Building Information Modeling is a software-based parametric design approach that allows a full interoperability between the various actors involved in a design or management process. Notwithstanding It has been specifically created for buildings projects, its use has been adapted to a wide range of applications, including transport infrastructure design and, more recently, cultural heritage. In regard to this field, it has been mainly applied to raise accuracy and effectiveness of restoring and stabilization activities for historical architectures.The present study aims at demonstrating how the use of BIM may return remarkable outcomes in improving the current quality level of digital valorisation and virtual reconstructions of historical structures, especially when their rate of conservation is limited. Indeed, even though current digital reconstruction models are, usually, verified under an archaeological perspective, their structural consistency is never tested. This involves that many virtual reconstruction models are likely to represent structures that are historically accurate but that have no structural sense as, according to their geometric features and the construction materials/techniques, they would not stand their weight.In this perspective, this study proposes a novel BIM-based methodology capable of both driving the archaeological reconstruction hypotheses and testing the reconstruction hypotheses on a structural basis. The model can be schematically represented by the following process:1- Survey of the emerging: acquisition of data from superficial archaeological surveys (topographic data, laser scanner, aero photogrammetry, satellite images)2- Survey of the hidden: acquisition of data from hypogeal surveys (georadar, electrical tomography, magnetometry);3- Mechanical characterization: gathering of information concerning the materials of the find, proven in their mechanic qualities also through load stress tests;4- Virtual reconstruction: proposal of a possible hypothesis of virtual reconstruction linked to structural and morphological features known to be present in the referred historical periods;5- Structural test: engineering and structural confirmation of the forwarded hypothesis by means of finite element algorithms.The proposed methodology was tested on the archaeological area of the Villa and Circus of Maxentius along the Ancient Appian Way in Rome; all the planned activities have been shared and authorized by the Sovrintendenza Capitolina ai Beni Culturali, within the context of the Project BIMHERIT, funded by Regione Lazio (DTC Lazio Call, Prot. 305-2020-35609).
Socio-metabolic Risks and Tipping Points on Islands
Authors: Singh Simron
Published: February 2023

Small island states and jurisdictions face enormous sustainability challenges such as isolation from global markets, tenuous resource availability, heavy reliance on imports to meet basic needs, coastal squeeze, and reduced waste absorption capacity. At the same time, the adverse effects of global environmental change such as global warming, extreme events, and outbreaks of pandemics significantly hinder island economies’ progress towards sustainability, and consistently rank them high on various vulnerability indices. This talk introduces the concept of socio-metabolic risk, defined as systemic risk associated with the availability of critical resources, the integrity of material circulation, and the (in)equitable distribution of derived products and societal services in a socio-ecological system. Drawing on years of socio-metabolic research on islands, I will argue that specific configurations and combinations of material stocks and flows and their ‘resistance to change’ contribute to the system’s proliferation of socio-metabolic risk (SMR). For better or for worse, these influence the system’s ability to consistently and effectively deliver societal services necessary for human survival. Governing SMR would mean governing socio-metabolic flows, and easing resource requirements through green(-blue) infrastructure and nature-based solutions (NBS) to provide crucial societal services. Such interventions will need strategies to reconfigure resource-use patterns and associated services that are sustainable as well as socially equitable.
The interplay between Solar Wind Turbulence and magnetic Switchbacks in the inner Heliospere
Authors: Larosa Andrea , Chen Christopher H. K. , McIntyre Jack , Jagarlamudi Vamsee K.
Published: February 2023

One of the most intriguing discoveries of the Parker Solar Probe mission is the presence of magnetic field reversals, known as Switchbacks (SBs), in the near Sun environment. Their origins are still unclear and many mechanisms for their generations have been proposed. On top of that their interactions with the background solar wind turbulence is not yet understood. In this work we investigate whether the SBs can be considered as part of the background solar wind turbulence or as a population of separate structures. We address this problem by studying the distributions of different measures of the turbulence and SBs and their radial evolution. These results are valuable for the understanding of switchbacks formation and of how turbulence affects the generation of structures in the solar wind.  
Contribution of coastal anticyclones to Black Sea oxygen dynamics
Authors: Capet Arthur , Mason Evan , Vandenbulcke Luc , Gregoire Marilaure
Published: February 2023

The Black Sea is a largely enclosed basin that experiences minimal exchange with the Mediterranean through the 0.7 km wide Bosphorus Strait. It receives significant freshwater discharge from several large rivers. Mesoscale eddies are numerous in the Black Sea. They have been observed, tracked,  and sampled over several decades. Previous eddy identification efforts have focused on surface circulation, aided by sea surface height maps compiled  from space-borne altimeters. We use a 3d high-resolution model solution that solves both physical and biogeochemical variables that enable us to  provide a comprehensive evaluation of the oxygen dynamics within the near-shore Black Sea eddy field. By this, we confirm and explain the strong subsurface oxygen anomalies formerly revealed underneath anticyclones on the basis of Argo floats and detail the transport and the biogeochemical processes involved.
Research and civil society collaboration - working together for a safer climate
Authors: Rantanen Rosa
Published: February 2023

What kind of ways are there for research and civil society to improve climate safety together? This presentation examines how academics and civil society actors can co-design research-based solutions for supporting a safer climate. The term ‘climate safety’ is used instead of the more commonly used ‘climate security’ to highlight the human security aspects of the matter, as well as to refer to the concept of ‘safer space’ aiming to create a safe environment for a more inclusive climate change discussion and action.In addition to scientific data, sustainability transformation requires action, political will and cultural change. Therefore it is important to study and create new theoretical and physical spaces at the intersection of science, art and civil society, and to emphasize two-way communication. Civil society plays a key role in strengthening society's crisis resilience in general, which is also important for climate change mitigation and adaptation. Civil society’s versatile role extends from large-scale assistance to authorities in (climate) crisis situations to creative and independent solutions of local communities. By strengthening civil society’s understanding of science and their voice regarding climate change, we are able to strengthen society’s crisis resilience in terms of climate change and related direct, cascading and transition impacts on security.The presentation is based on and showcases practical examples from the work of the Initiative for a Safer Climate, a new network that brings together researchers, civil society organizations and arts. The network is based in Finland and it is part of the outreach activities of the Atmosphere and Climate Competence Center consisting of University of Helsinki, Tampere University, University of Eastern Finland and the Finnish Meteorological Institute.
Using media to raise awareness on the importance of geoscience in Namibia
Authors: Uushona Josephine , Mutongolume Claudia , Mhopjeni Kombada , Angombe Moses , Shaanika Giesberta , Hailonga Michelle , Uupindi Victoria , Nguno Anna , Naantu Ekandjo Halleluya
Published: February 2023

The Ministry of Mines and Energy was constitutionally established (per Article 100 of the Constitution) to take custody of the country’s geological, mineral and energy resources, and ensure that these resources contribute to Namibia’s socio-economic development. The Department of the Geological Survey is responsible for collection, collation and dissemination of geological data and providing basic geological information through outreach programmes.
These outreach programs are conducted in the efforts to increase public awareness on the vital role geosciences play in society's use of resources, interaction with the environment and its contribution to socio-economic development. In addition, the programs provide an opportunity to expose the youth to geoscience career opportunities and positively influence an uptake of geoscience as a potential field of study.
These programs are collaborative efforts between the Geological Survey of Namibia and other organisations such as Young Earth Scientist (YES) Namibian Chapter, Geological Council of Namibia, the Goethe institute and many more. Through the participation in the International Geoscience Program (IGCP) 685 project, the Geological Survey of Namibia, with volunteers from Young Earth Scientist Namibian Chapter (YES) Network developed a 3-minute, motion graphic outreach video and poster focusing on geoscience and sustainable development.  The video and poster are creative ways to engage young people/students, educators, and the community on the importance of geoscience and inspire children’s interest in geosciences, and science in general. Both products are used during outreach programs to schools (high school and primary schools) and communities.
Please follow the link provided to view the video: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=D-I7nnSiFIg&t=70s 
In addition, GSN embarked on an initiative to engage the Namibian community using radio platform in nine vernaculars.   The main objective of the outreach was to communicate different aspects of geoscience and their application to socio-economic development.
 
Comparative Study on Generating and Predicting Swarm Satellite Data by Deep Neural Networks
Authors: Bi Yaxin
Published: February 2023

This study will present the latest development of anomaly detection methods underpinned with Deep Neural Networks (DNN), which focuses on predicting and generating electromagnetic data from the Swarm historic data. We report our investigation into the architectures of Recurrent Neural Networks (RNN) and generative adversarial network (GAN), particularly illustrating the development of a Long-Short Term Memory (LSTM) based methods and a flow-based generative model. We present the implementation of the algorithms developed as well as comparisons between the predicted and generated results of applying these algorithms to the Swarm historic data. We also describe error metrics used for measuring the accuracy of Swarm data reconstruction and the methods of detecting anomalies in the synthesized Swarm data.
Uncertainty quantification of seismic structural response due to randomness in the soil properties
Authors: Michailidis Alexandros
Published: February 2023

This work investigates how the uncertainty in the soil parameters influences the frequency content of the earthquake accelerograms that are expected to occur at a specific site. To this end, the Clough-Penzien power-spectrum is parametrized using random variables to describe the stochastic soil parameters and an artificial set of accelerograms is generated using the Spectral-Representation method. Subsequently, the equations of motion of a single degree-of-freedom oscillator are solved numerically for each earthquake scenario and the response spectrum is extracted. By comparing the derived response spectrum with the one obtained from considering deterministic soil parameters, useful conclusions are drawn pertaining to structural design and analysis.
Toward the Application of Nonlinear Ensemble Data Assimilation Methods to Convective-Scale Parameter Estimation
Authors: Chipilski Hristo Georgiev , Posselt Derek
Published: February 2023

Recent work has demonstrated that convective-scale model parameters, such as those related to cloud microphysical schemes, are nonlinearly related to dynamic/thermodynamic variables in forecasts and observations. This leads to errors when data assimilation (DA) schemes based on linear-Gaussian assumptions are used to estimate the uncertain model parameters. Nonlinear modifications to the standard ensemble Kalman filter (EnKF) have been shown to perform better for systems governed by convective dynamics, and recent algorithms leveraging advances in AI/ML appear to be especially promising.
 
In this talk, we will present results from previous experiments that demonstrate how and why linear EnKF methods fall short for the challenging task of nonlinear parameter estimation. We will discuss the potential improvements that may result from a new class of ensemble DA algorithms leveraging the powerful framework of latent Gaussian models. In particular, two generalizations of the classical EnKF will be described – one which exploits the special mathematical properties of invertible neural networks (ECTF) and another one based on ideas from measure transport in the context of two-step ensemble filtering (TGA-EnKF). The advantages of these new methods will be illustrated through idealized DA experiments, which will then motivate further discussion on their applicability to convective-scale DA problems.