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2. The Impact of Climate on the Energetics of Overwintering Paper Wasp Gynes (Polistes dominula and Polistes gallicus).
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Kovac, Helmut, Käfer, Helmut, Petrocelli, Iacopo, Amstrup, Astrid B., and Stabentheiner, Anton
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WINTER , *WASPS , *LOW temperatures , *ACCLIMATIZATION , *WEATHER , *GLOBAL warming , *CLIMATE change - Abstract
Simple Summary: During overwintering diapause, the gynes of paper wasps (Polistes sp.) are mainly dormant in sheltered hibernacles, protecting them against predators and adverse weather conditions but hardly against low temperatures. By measuring the temperature inside hibernacles occupied by species from both Mediterranean (Italian; P. dominula, P. gallicus) and temperate (Austrian; P. dominula) climates (mean hibernacle temperatures: 8.5 °C and 3.2 °C, respectively), we were able to calculate the energetic demand of overwintering. The cumulative energetic costs differed between the populations. Costs were lowest for the P. dominula population from the cooler Austrian winter climate and significantly higher in P. dominula and P. gallicus from the warmer Italian climate. The lower costs of the temperate species were a result of the lower winter temperature and physiological acclimation processes. Energetic calculations with an assumed temperature increase of up to 3 °C due to climate change predict a dramatic increase of up to 40% in overwintering costs in all species. Gynes of paper wasps (Polistes sp.) spend the cold season in sheltered hibernacles. These hibernacles protect against predators and adverse weather conditions but offer only limited protection against low temperatures. During overwintering diapause, wasps live on the energy they store. We investigated the hibernacles' microclimate conditions of species from the Mediterranean (Italy, P. dominula, P. gallicus) and temperate (Austria, P. dominula) climates in order to describe the environmental conditions and calculate the energetic demand of overwintering according to standard metabolic rate functions. The temperatures at the hibernacles differed significantly between the Mediterranean and temperate habitats (average in Austria: 3.2 ± 5.71 °C, in Italy: 8.5 ± 5.29 °C). In both habitats, the hibernacle temperatures showed variance, but the mean hibernacle temperature corresponded closely to the meteorological climate data. Cumulative mass-specific energetic costs over the studied period were the lowest for the temperate P. dominula population compared with both Mediterranean species. The lower costs of the temperate species were a result of the lower hibernacle temperature and acclimation to lower environmental temperatures. Model calculations with an increased mean temperature of up to 3 °C due to climate change indicate a dramatic increase of up to 40% in additional costs. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]
- Published
- 2023
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3. The people behind the papers -- Jiajia Ye and Qiang Sun.
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Jiajia Ye and Qiang Sun
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GLOBAL warming , *ROE deer , *DIAPAUSE - Abstract
A recent article in Development explores the molecular mechanisms behind embryonic diapause, a state of suspended development induced by nutrient deprivation. The study, conducted on mice, reveals that protein and carbohydrate depletion activate the nutrient sensors Gator1 and Tsc2, leading to embryonic diapause. The researchers also discuss the potential applicability of their findings to other mammalian species, including primates. The study expands our understanding of the role of mTOR in diapause and sheds light on how environmental stresses inhibit mTORC1 activity. [Extracted from the article]
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- 2024
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4. Some reflections prompted by Dr Jones' paper.
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Raven, John
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INFORMATION technology , *SCHOOL districts , *GLOBAL warming , *CLASSROOM environment , *SCIENTISTS - Published
- 2024
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5. Environmental performance of bamboo-based office paper production: A comparative study with eucalyptus.
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Ghelmandi Netto, Luiz, Agostinho, Feni, Almeida, Cecília M.V.B., Liu, Gengyuan, and Giannetti, Biagio F.
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EUCALYPTUS , *SYSTEMS availability , *GLOBAL warming , *AGRICULTURAL productivity , *COMPARATIVE studies , *BAMBOO - Abstract
Bamboo has being used as alternative raw material for construction, reinforcing fibers, paper production, among other applications. Although its recognized potentials as raw material, there are doubts about its environmental performance compared to traditional wood-based products, including paper production, which hinders bamboo-based paper plants in large scales. This study aims to assess the environmental performance of producing office paper from bamboo. Emergy synthesis (with 'm') and global warming potential indicators are calculated and compared with the traditional eucalyptus paper-based production. Results highlights the importance in including the renewability fractions of each input resources into emergy calculations for production systems with high human-labor intensity such as the bamboo agricultural production. Office paper produced from bamboo has similar renewability (28%), moderate environmental load (3.23 vs. 2.49), and emergy unsustainability (0.34 vs. 0.60) compared to paper produced from eucalyptus, but bamboo showed lower performance for global efficiency (568 vs. 442 sej/ton paper), emergy yield (1.09 vs. 1.49), and emergy investment (10.79 vs. 2.05). Focusing on global warming potential, office paper produced from bamboo releases 98 kgCO 2 eq. /ton paper compared to 56–267 kgCO 2 eq. /ton paper for eucalyptus. Notwithstanding, bamboo-based office paper demands four times more land area of agricultural production than eucalyptus, but it has a positive social aspect by requiring higher amount of direct human labor. This work shows the advantages of using eucalyptus rather than bamboo in producing office paper from an emergy and land demand perspectives, while global warming can still be considered inconclusive. Future efforts should consider a quantitative and qualitative analysis of human labor availability in both systems, as well an economic analysis to support discussions towards more sustainable office paper production from different raw materials. • Environmental load of bamboo and eucalyptus for office paper production are compared. • Bamboo has lower emergy performance than eucalyptus. • Including the renewability fraction of labor and services better reflects emergy results. • Bamboo paper emits 98kgCO2eq/ton, eucalyptus paper emits 56–267kgCO2eq/ton. • Bamboo paper needs 4x land compared to eucalyptus and requires more human labor. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]
- Published
- 2024
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6. Energy and carbon coupled water footprint analysis for Kraft wood pulp paper production.
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Ma, Xiaotian, Shen, Xiaoxu, Qi, Congcong, Ye, Liping, Yang, Donglu, and Hong, Jinglan
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WOOD-pulp , *ECOLOGICAL impact , *PAPER industry , *GLOBAL warming , *EUTROPHICATION - Abstract
Abstract Although paper production demonstrates high energy and water sensitivity in their life cycles, only a few systematic analyses have focused on these issues. Therefore, an energy and carbon coupled water footprint analysis of five types of Kraft wood pulp-based paper (i.e., specialty-, art-, household-, light coated-, and tissue paper) is conducted in this study to help improve the environmental performance of the paper industry. All investigations are conducted with an impact-oriented approach based on ISO standards. Results show that elemental-chlorine-free bleaching is more environmentally friendly than chlorination-alkaline extraction-hypochlorite bleaching, specifically for global warming, aquatic eutrophication, and human health (i.e., carcinogens and non-carcinogens). Gray water footprint along whole life cycles of each product is approximately twice of blue water footprint. Direct processes contribute approximately 50% to water scarcity, while their impact on aquatic eutrophication ranges from 0.002% to 50.72%. For other midpoints, indirect processes dominate the influences. Meanwhile, COD, BOD 5 , CO 2 , TP, Cr (Ⅵ), Ti, Hg, and As are key contributors. Finally, reusing sludge by direct burning in the recovery furnace, reclaiming organic compounds in black liquor before alkali recycling, and integrating black liquor gasification technology are expected to provide substantial environmental benefits. Amelioration of wastewater treatment, optimization of the national energy structure, and improvement of the efficiency of chemicals and freshwater are recommended. Highlights • Energy and carbon coupled water footprint analysis of Kraft pulp paper is applied. • The environmental benefit of black liquor recovery is dominated by reused alkali. • Direct processes contribute a lot to water scarcity and aquatic eutrophication. • COD, BOD, TP, and heavy metals are key substances. • Optimizing waste reuse and availability efficiency of chemicals is recommended. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]
- Published
- 2018
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7. "I Live With and By Nature": Swedish Alpine Skiers Reflect on Professional and Lifestyle Skiing, Nature, and Snow, 1964–2023.
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Larneby, Marie
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DOWNHILL skiing , *SKIERS , *GLOBAL warming , *GLACIERS , *SNOWMAKING - Abstract
Alpine skiing has been a popular activity since the 1950s. However, global warming leads to milder weather, melting glaciers, and reduced snowfall which deteriorates possibilities to skiing. The purpose of this paper is to sketch a contemporary history of alpine skiing and environmental awareness in Sweden through the narratives of ten alpine skiers. A temporal and spatial perspective contributes to make changes over time and meaning of places visible. The skiers share a fixed narrative: nature as central for skiing. This is not unproblematic since nature has been more adapted and modified and resulted in a crowded landscape. Nature is a space to be preserved but also as a space to enable skiing. In this constructed landscape, over time snowmaking is reconstructed to being normal, albeit not natural. A way to handle these changes is to care more for nature, travel less, ski more local, and show environmental awareness. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]
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- 2024
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8. Dengue NS1 detection in pediatric serum using microfluidic paper-based analytical devices.
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Prabowo, Muhammad Hatta, Chatchen, Supawat, Rijiravanich, Patsamon, Limkittikul, Kriengsak, and Surareungchai, Werasak
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ARBOVIRUS diseases , *DENGUE , *DIGITAL images , *CRITICAL success factor , *SERUM , *GLOBAL warming , *MONOCLONAL antibodies - Abstract
The diagnosis of dengue infection is still a critical factor determining success in the clinical management and treatment of patients. Here, the development of microfluidic paper-based analytical devices (μPADs) utilizing a sandwich immunoassay on wax patterned paper functionalized with anti-dengue NS1 monoclonal antibodies for point-of-care detection of dengue NS1 (DEN-NS1-PAD) is reported. Various assay conditions, including the length of the channel and diluent, were optimized, and the response detected by the naked eye and digitized images within 20–30 min. The DEN-NS1-PAD was successfully tested in the field for detecting dengue NS1 in buffer, cell culture media, and human serum. The limit of detection (LoD) of the DEN-NS1-PAD obtained with the naked eye, scanner, and a smartphone camera was 200, 46.7, and 74.8 ng mL−1, respectively. The repeatability, reproducibility, and stability of the DEN-NS1-PAD were also evaluated. High true specificity and sensitivity in the serum of pediatric patients were observed. These evaluation results confirm that the DEN-NS1-PAD can potentially be used in point-of-care dengue diagnostics, which can significantly impact on the spreading of mosquito-borne diseases, which are likely to become more prevalent with the effects of global warming. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]
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- 2020
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9. Experimental study and analysis of the functional and life-cycle global warming effect of low-dose chemical pre-treatment of effluent from pulp and paper mills.
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Sandberg, Maria, Venkatesh, G., and Granström, Karin
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WATER aeration , *WASTEWATER treatment , *CHEMICAL oxygen demand , *PAPER mills , *GLOBAL warming & the environment , *MANAGEMENT - Abstract
Aeration, as a process in pulp and paper wastewater treatment, uses the greatest share of the energy. Therefore, if the energy efficiency of the treatment has to be improved, the focus must be on aeration. A key finding from the trials conducted for this paper, with effluent from a paper and pulp mill, was that the oxygen transfer coefficient could be doubled and the chemical oxygen demand could be decreased by 25%, if the effluent was pre-treated with 30 mg/l of aluminium coagulant (equivalent to 9.4 tonnes per day of AVR to 20000 cubic metres of effluent). Decrease in oxygen requirement implies decreases in aeration energy use. Pulp and paper mill effluents are not as biodegradable as municipal sewage, and the improvement in oxygen transfer properties of the effluent will have a positive influence over a longer period of time in the biological treatment. If the sludge is digested anaerobically, pre-treatment will also result in doubling the potential for methane generation. A holistic analysis of modifications to processes entails a study of the economic and environmental consequences as well. While the economic aspect is beyond the scope of this paper, only the net global warming as an environmental impact category has been studied, by taking recourse to specific emission coefficients. Of the four dosages of ferric aluminium sulphate considered in this analysis, the net greenhouse gas emissions are the least – 426 kg carbon dioxide equivalent per day when the daily consumption is 9.4 tonnes. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]
- Published
- 2018
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10. Use of Symbiosis Products from Integrated Pulp and Paper and Carbon Steel Mills: Legal Status and Environmental Burdens.
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Husgafvel, R., Nordlund, H., Heino, J., Mäkelä, M., Watkins, G., Dahl, O., and Paavola, I.‐L.
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INDUSTRIAL ecology , *CARBON steel industry , *PAPER industry , *INDUSTRIAL waste management , *WASTE treatment , *GLOBAL warming , *ENVIRONMENTAL impact analysis , *LAW - Abstract
This study assesses the policy/legal status of both multistream residues and potential secondary products ('symbiosis products') and whether there could be environmental benefits associated with the utilization of residues from integrated pulp and paper and carbon steel mills as raw materials for such secondary products. Waste-related European Union (EU) and Finnish policy and legal instruments were reviewed to identify potential constraints for, and suggested next steps in, the development of potential process industry residue-based symbiosis products. The products were soil amendment pellets, low-grade concrete, and mine filler. A global warming potential (GWP) assessment and an exergy analysis were applied to these potential symbiosis products. Some indicative GWP calculations of greenhouse gas emissions associating similar and/or analogous products based on virgin primary raw materials, more energy-intensive processes, and the alternative treatment of these residues as wastes are also presented. This study addresses GWP, exergy, and legal aspects in a holistic manner to determine the potential environmental benefits of secondary products within the EU legal framework. The GWP assessment and exergy analysis indicate that the utilization of multistream residues causes very low environmental burdens in terms of GWP. The utilization option can have potential environmental benefits in terms of GWP through process replacement and avoided landfilling and waste treatment impacts, as well as potentially through emission reductions from product replacement if suitable and safe applications can be identified. Waste regulation does not define the legal requirements under which utilizing residues in such novel concepts as introduced in this study would be possible, nor how waste status could be removed and product-based legislation be applied to the potential products instead. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]
- Published
- 2016
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11. Review of the Impact of Permafrost Thawing on the Strength of Soils.
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Ajmera, Beena and Emami Ahari, Hossein
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LANDSLIDES , *SHEAR strength of soils , *PERMAFROST , *FROZEN ground , *SOIL cohesion , *SOILS , *GLOBAL warming , *TUNDRAS - Abstract
Global warming is causing unprecedented changes to permafrost regions with amplified effects in the Arctic through a phenomenon known as Arctic amplification. This intensified climate warming thaws both the discontinuous and continuous permafrost resulting in changes in the mechanical properties of the soils found in these regions. Since permafrost regions constitute nearly 24% of the Northern Hemisphere, understanding the strength of soils in thawed conditions is essential to analyze the stability of existing structures, and to design safer and more economical infrastructure in these regions. Specifically, thawing of the permafrost is causing considerable reductions in its strength of soils, which may lead to massive landslides, foundation failures, and so forth. Since frozen soil is a multiphase structure that consists of soil particles, unfrozen water, ice, and air, each constituent will influence the mechanical properties. This paper reviews the current state of knowledge of the impact of temperature, volumetric ice content, unfrozen water content, and frozen density on the compressive strength, peak shear strength, residual shear strength, undrained shear strength, and tensile strength of soils. The undrained shear strength of soil is said to have a linear correlation with temperature. In addition, the undrained cohesion of soil was found to depend on the temperature, whereas the undrained friction angle of soil was significantly influenced by volumetric ice content. An increase in the volumetric ice content up to 80% to 90% will cause a reduction in the peak and residual deviatoric stresses. In addition, an increase in volumetric ice content resulted in an increase in the compressive strength of the soil. The tensile and compressive strengths were found to be functions of the unfrozen water content. Global warming is causing the temperature of the permafrost, which is permanently frozen ground, to rise. This paper provides valuable insights into the impact of the changes in this ambient temperature on the strength of frozen soils in permafrost regions for a wide range of applications. Such insights are crucial for the design of resilient and stable infrastructure, such as foundations, embankments, and retaining walls, in which consideration of the reduced strength of thawed soils due to climate change will be necessary. In addition, the knowledge will allow for better management of vulnerable areas prone to landslides and erosion caused by the weakened soil strength permitting the implementation of mitigation measures before lives are lost and costly economic damages are incurred. Finally, this information will aid in early warning systems, emergency planning, and decision making to minimize the impact of hazards on human settlements and infrastructure. In this paper, a review of the current state of knowledge regarding the strength of frozen soils and the associated fluctuations in these strengths because of a rise in temperature are presented. Guidelines on the best practices for sample preparation and testing along with correlations to estimate various strength parameters are also provided. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]
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- 2024
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12. "Invited Paper" Computer-aided alloy designs of grade 600 MPa reinforced steel bars for seismic safety based on thermodynamic and kinetic calculations: Overview.
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Shim, Jae-Hyeok, Hwang, Byoungchul, Lee, Myoung-Gyu, and Lee, Joonho
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STRUCTURAL steel , *REINFORCING bars , *THERMODYNAMICS , *FINITE element method , *GLOBAL warming - Abstract
In order to satisfy the demands for both safety and global warming reduction, a high-strength seismic reinforced steel bar is required in the structural steel market. Recent developments in computational thermodynamics and related application software have made it possible to design a suitable material as well as support engineers of steel manufacturing companies in the production of the designed material with minimum benchmarks in practical operations. This paper reports our recent success in developing grade 600 MPa reinforced steel bars for seismic safety in South Korea. First, conventional alloy design based on CALPHAD-type computational thermodynamics was carried out. For this purpose, a typical alloy system of Fe-0.30C-0.23Si-1.37Mn-0.14V-0.22Cu (in wt%) was selected, and thermodynamic and kinetic calculations were carried out using MatCalc and JMatPro software. Second, in order to reduce V content in the steel for economic reasons, a cooling process designed using finite element (FE) simulation based on the thermodynamic database was performed. For this application, Fe-0.34C-0.22Si-1.34Mn-0.04 V (in wt%) alloy was chosen, and the FE software ABAQUS was applied for modeling the TempCore process. The mechanical properties of the steel products with a diameter of 32 mm produced based on the simulated results satisfy the required properties for grade 600 MPa seismic reinforced steel bars. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]
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- 2018
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13. Carbon credit and economic feasibility analysis of biomass-solar PV-battery power plant for application in Nusa Penida - Bali.
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Hardiyasanti, Dindamilenia Choirunnisa, Widianingrum, Sinta, Bahar, Aditiya Harjon, Djamari, Djati Wibowo, and Wahono, Jaya
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CARBON credits , *SOLAR power plants , *POWER plants , *SUSTAINABLE development , *GLOBAL warming , *ENERGY consumption , *HYBRID power , *CONSUMERS' surplus ,SOLAR chimneys - Abstract
The need for renewable energy is highly increasing worldwide to fulfil energy demand as well as reduce the impact of global warming. Indonesia as the most extensive archipelago face real challenge to power its remote areas with green electricity. This paper assesses economically the idea of hybrid power plant of solar and/or biomass to electrify Indonesian remote areas with green electricity. Furthermore, the carbon credit as an additional income of this project is estimated using CDM methodology. The project is proposed in Sakti, Batukandik, and Batumadeg villages in Nusa Penida Island, Bali; the ER are 7460.57, 2587.10, and 9044.84 tCO2e/year, accordingly. The IRR is analyzed under two scenarios: the initial electricity cost of USD 0.15/kWh and the reduced cost of USD 0.10/kWh including carbon credits and biochar sales. The sensitivity analysis is conducted to observe the effect of most tentative variables towards the IRR. Furthermore, determining the feasibility of this project by analyzing the ERR is assessed to be important, whether it is profitable for the community or not. For the ERR analysis, there are two results calculations. The ERR value with the application of carbon credits shows 32.66%. In comparison, the ERR value without the application of carbon credits shows 28.19%. These values are obtained from several parameter calculations in the ERR analysis in this study. It consists of a consumer surplus, which is computed from the benefits obtained by PLN. Then, the producer surplus and job increases are computed from the benefits obtained by the community if this project is executed. This paper result has essential role in contribution to social, economic, and environmental goal for sustainable development and supporting national economic activities. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]
- Published
- 2024
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14. Statistical Evaluation of Seismic Velocity Models of Permafrost.
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Ji, Xiaohang, Xiao, Ming, Martin, Eileen R., and Zhu, Tieyuan
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SEISMIC wave velocity , *SEISMIC waves , *PERMAFROST , *GLOBAL warming , *INFRASTRUCTURE (Economics) , *TUNDRAS ,COLD regions - Abstract
The warming climate in high-latitude permafrost regions is leading to permafrost degradation. Estimating seismic wave velocities in permafrost could help predict the geomechanical properties of permafrost and provide information to plan and design resilient civil infrastructure in cold regions. This paper evaluates the performance of seven models when predicting the seismic wave velocities of permafrost statistically; these models are the time-average, Zimmerman and King, Minshull et al., weighted equation, three-phase, Biot–Gassmann theory modified by Lee (BGTL), and Dou et al. models. The data used in the evaluation are from published laboratory and in situ data, which includes 369 data points for joint P and S wave velocities from nine publications and 943 unfrozen water content data points from 12 publications. The unfrozen water content that is used in these models is determined from a modified Dall'Amico's model that is proposed, which is evaluated against six existing unfrozen water content models based on soil temperature. This paper finds that saturated nonsaline permafrost generally shares similar linear trends between the P and S wave velocities, regardless of soil type, porosity, grain size, and temperature. Fitting all existing data, an empirical linear relationship is derived between the P and S wave velocities. Among the seven models evaluated, the Minshull et al. and BGTL models are the most accurate when predicting the seismic velocities of permafrost. Practical Applications: Unfrozen water content and seismic wave velocity models are valuable tools for quantitatively predicting permafrost dynamics and degradation, with practical applications in various engineering areas with permafrost environments. As permafrost thaws due to rising temperatures, these models could be used to guide the quantitative interpretation of geophysical changes in subsurface conditions, assess the potential for ground instability, and predict future permafrost degradation. Unfrozen water content models are used to predict the percentage of unfrozen water within permafrost, which links the changes with permafrost temperature. Unfrozen water content models of permafrost are essential when assessing permafrost thaw, thermal performance, heat transfer processes in permafrost, and the effect of civil infrastructure on permafrost (Chen et al.,). The seismic wave velocity models could help engineers assess the subsurface conditions in permafrost areas; this assessment is crucial for environmental and seismic monitoring, land use planning, infrastructure design and construction, and natural resources exploration. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]
- Published
- 2024
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15. The Potential of Absorbing Aerosols to Enhance Extreme Precipitation.
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Dagan, Guy and Eytan, Eshkol
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GLOBAL warming , *AEROSOLS , *EMERGENCY management , *CLIMATE change mitigation , *TROPOSPHERIC aerosols , *SOLAR radiation - Abstract
Understanding the impact of various climate forcing agents, such as aerosols, on extreme precipitation is socially and scientifically vital. While anthropogenic absorbing aerosols influence Earth's energy balance and atmospheric convection, their role in extreme events remains unclear. This paper uses convective‐resolving radiative‐convective‐equilibrium simulations, with fixed solar radiation, to investigate the influence of absorbing aerosols on extreme precipitation comprehensively. Our findings reveal an underappreciated mechanism through which absorbing aerosols can, under certain conditions, strongly intensify extreme precipitation. Notably, we demonstrate that a mechanism previously reported for much warmer (hothouse) climates, where intense rainfall alternates with multi‐day dry spells, can operate under current realistic conditions due to absorbing aerosol influence. This mechanism operates when an aerosol perturbation shifts the lower tropospheric radiative heating rate to positive values, generating a strong inhibition layer. Our work highlights an additional potential effect of absorbing aerosols, with implications for climate change mitigation and disaster risk management. Plain Language Summary: Aerosols, particles suspended in the atmosphere, can interact with the incoming solar radiation by scattering or absorbing it. Aerosol species that absorb solar radiation generate local warming of the atmosphere. This local warming changes the vertical profile of temperature and by that affects cloud and precipitation development. In this paper we use idealized computer simulations to investigate the effect of absorbing aerosols on precipitation, and specifically on extreme precipitation events in the tropics. We demonstrate that under certain conditions, absorbing aerosols can strongly enhance extreme precipitation even despite reducing the mean. We show that this trend can be explained by a mechanism previously reported for much warmer climate conditions than currently found on Earth, involving heating by radiation of the lower part of the troposphere. These results have implications for climate change mitigation and disaster risk management. Key Points: The effect of absorbing aerosol on extreme precipitation is examined in idealized convective‐resolving radiative‐convective‐equilibrium simulationsAerosol perturbation that shifts the lower tropospheric radiative heating rate to positive values strongly enhances extreme precipitationThis trend is explained by a mechanism reported before for hothouse climate conditions involving a shift into an "episodic deluge" regime [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]
- Published
- 2024
- Full Text
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16. Non-Integrated and Integrated On-Board Battery Chargers (iOBCs) for Electric Vehicles (EVs): A Critical Review.
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Nasr Esfahani, Fatemeh, Darwish, Ahmed, Ma, Xiandong, and Twigg, Peter
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BATTERY chargers , *INFRASTRUCTURE (Economics) , *ELECTRIC vehicle industry , *TECHNICAL specifications , *GLOBAL warming , *ELECTRIC vehicles - Abstract
The rising Greenhouse Gas (GHG) emissions stemming from the extensive use of automobiles across the globe represent a critical environmental challenge, contributing significantly to phenomena such as global warming and the deterioration of air quality. To address these challenges, there is a critical need for research and development in electric vehicles (EVs) and their associated charging infrastructure, including off-board and on-board chargers (OBCs). This paper aims to bridge the gaps in existing review literature by offering a comprehensive review of both integrated and non-integrated OBCs for EVs, based on the authors' knowledge at the time of writing. The paper begins by outlining trends in the EV market, including voltage levels, power ratings, and relevant standards. It then provides a detailed analysis of two-level and multi-level power converter topologies, covering AC-DC power factor correction (PFC) and isolated DC-DC topologies. Subsequently, it discusses single-stage and two-stage non-integrated OBC solutions. Additionally, various categories of integrated OBCs (iOBCs) are explored, accompanied by relevant examples. The paper also includes comparison tables containing technical specifications and key characteristics for reference and analysis. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]
- Published
- 2024
- Full Text
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17. A Long-Duration Glacier Change Analysis for the Urumqi River Valley, a Representative Region of Central Asia.
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Wang, Lin, Yang, Shujing, Chen, Kangning, Liu, Shuangshuang, Jin, Xiang, and Xie, Yida
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GLACIERS , *ALPINE glaciers , *GLOBAL warming , *AGRICULTURAL productivity , *TIME series analysis , *HIGH temperatures , *CLIMATE change - Abstract
The increasing global warming trend has resulted in the mass loss of most glaciers. The Urumqi Vally, located in the dry and cold zone of China, and its widely dispersed glaciers are significant to the regional ecological environment, oasis economic development, and industrial and agricultural production. This is representative of glaciers in Middle Asia and represents one of the world's longest observed time series of glaciers, beginning in 1959. The Urumqi Headwater Glacier No. 1 (UHG-1) has a dominant presence in the World Glacier Monitoring Service (WGMS). This paper supplies a comprehensive analysis of past studies and future modeling of glacier changes in the Urumqi Valley. It has received insufficient attention in the past, and the mass balance of UHG-1 was used to verify that the geodetic results and the OGGM model simulation results are convincing. The main conclusions are: The area of 48.68 ± 4.59 km2 delineated by 150 glaciers in 1958 decreased to 21.61 ± 0.27 km2 delineated by 108 glaciers in 2022, with a reduction of 0.47 ± 0.04 km2·a−1 (0.96% a−1 in 1958–2022). The glacier mass balance by geodesy is −0.69 ± 0.11 m w.e.a−1 in 2000–2022, which is just deviating from the measured result (−0.66 m w.e.a−1), but the geodetic result in this paper can be enough to reflect the glacier changes (−0.65 ± 0.11 m w.e.a−1) of the URB in 2000–2022. The future loss rate of area and volume will undergo a rapid and then decelerating process, with the fastest and slowest inflection points occurring around 2035 and 2070, respectively. High temperatures and large precipitation in summer accelerate glacier loss, and the corresponding lag period of glacier change to climate is about 2–3 years. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]
- Published
- 2024
- Full Text
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18. Multi-decadal atmospheric carbon dioxide measurements in Central Europe, Hungary.
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Haszpra, László
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GLOBAL warming , *ATMOSPHERIC carbon dioxide , *SUMMER , *GREENHOUSE gases - Abstract
The paper reviews and evaluates a 30-year-long atmospheric CO2 data series measured at Hegyhátsál tall-tower greenhouse gas monitoring site, a member of WMO GAW, NOAA, and ICOS networks (id. code: HUN). The paper also gives the technical description of the monitoring system, and that of the physical environment of the station. This low elevation (248 m above m.s.l.), mid-continental Central European site shows a 3.90±0.83 µmol mol‑1 offset relative to the latitudinally representative marine boundary layer reference concentration presumably due to the European net anthropogenic emissions. The long-term trend (2.20 µmol mol‑1 year‑1) closely follows the global tendencies. In the concentration growth rate, the ENSO effect is clearly detectable with a 6–7 months lag-time. The summer diurnal concentration amplitude is slightly decreasing due to the faster-than-average increase of the nighttime concentrations, which is related to the warming climate. The warming climate also caused a 0.96±0.41 day year‑1 advance in the beginning of the summer CO2-deficit season in the first half of the measurement period, which did not continue later. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]
- Published
- 2024
- Full Text
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19. Low-carbon building evaluation index system based on hierarchical analysis method.
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Zhou, Ya and Fu, Shaopeng
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GLOBAL warming , *FACTOR analysis , *CONSTRUCTION industry - Abstract
Low-carbon building is an unavoidable development trend in the construction industry, especially in the critical moment of global warming, it is necessary to make a comprehensive evaluation of low-carbon buildings. At this stage, low carbon building has become an important direction in the construction field, and whether the low carbon building reaches the corresponding standards and the advantages played by the low carbon field need to be assessed with perfect evaluation indexes. Based on this, this paper constructs a low-carbon building evaluation system from the whole life cycle of the building using the hierarchical analysis method (AHP) and BP neural network method. Firstly, the definition and influencing factors of low-carbon buildings are analyzed, secondly, the evaluation index system of low-carbon buildings is constructed, and then the evaluation index system of low-carbon buildings is verified by using the hierarchical analysis method, and the results show that the evaluation results based on the hierarchical analysis and the BP neural network method are more accurate than those of the traditional hierarchical analysis method. The results show that the evaluation results based on hierarchical analysis and BP neural network are more accurate than the traditional hierarchical analysis method. It shows that the BP neural network method can effectively reduce the influence of subjective factors in the hierarchical analysis method and improve the objectivity of the evaluation results. On this basis, this paper proposes countermeasures to promote the development of low-carbon buildings, in order to provide a certain reference for the long-term development of low-carbon buildings. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]
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- 2024
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20. Methane Retrieval Algorithms Based on Satellite: A Review.
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Jiang, Yuhan, Zhang, Lu, Zhang, Xingying, and Cao, Xifeng
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REMOTE sensing , *METHANE , *THEMATIC mapper satellite , *GLOBAL warming , *CARBON dioxide , *ALGORITHMS , *SPATIAL resolution - Abstract
As the second most predominant greenhouse gas, methane-targeted emission mitigation holds the potential to decelerate the pace of global warming. Satellite remote sensing is an important monitoring tool, and we review developments in the satellite detection of methane. This paper provides an overview of the various types of satellites, including the various instrument parameters, and describes the different types of satellite retrieval algorithms. In addition, the currently popular methane point source quantification method is presented. Based on existing research, we delineate the classification of methane remote sensing satellites into two overarching categories: area flux mappers and point source imagers. Area flux mappers primarily concentrate on the assessment of global or large-scale methane concentrations, with a further subclassification into active remote sensing satellites (e.g., MERLIN) and passive remote sensing satellites (e.g., TROPOMI, GOSAT), contingent upon the remote sensing methodology employed. Such satellites are mainly based on physical models and the carbon dioxide proxy method for the retrieval of methane. Point source imagers, in contrast, can detect methane point source plumes using their ultra-high spatial resolution. Subcategories within this classification include multispectral imagers (e.g., Sentinel-2, Landsat-8) and hyperspectral imagers (e.g., PRISMA, GF-5), contingent upon their spectral resolution disparities. Area flux mappers are mostly distinguished by their use of physical algorithms, while point source imagers are dominated by data-driven methods. Furthermore, methane plume emissions can be accurately quantified through the utilization of an integrated mass enhancement model. Finally, a prediction of the future trajectory of methane remote sensing satellites is presented, in consideration of the current landscape. This paper aims to provide basic theoretical support for subsequent scientific research. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]
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- 2024
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21. CAS-ESM2.0 Successfully Reproduces Historical Atmospheric CO2 in a Coupled Carbon-Climate Simulation.
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Zhu, Jiawen, He, Juanxiong, Ji, Duoying, Li, Yangchun, Zhang, He, Zhang, Minghua, Zeng, Xiaodong, Fei, Kece, and Jin, Jiangbo
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- *
EARTH system science , *CARBON cycle , *ATMOSPHERIC carbon dioxide , *CARBON offsetting , *CLIMATE research , *GLOBAL warming - Abstract
The atmospheric carbon dioxide (CO2) concentration has been increasing rapidly since the Industrial Revolution, which has led to unequivocal global warming and crucial environmental change. It is extremely important to investigate the interactions among atmospheric CO2, the physical climate system, and the carbon cycle of the underlying surface for a better understanding of the Earth system. Earth system models are widely used to investigate these interactions via coupled carbon-climate simulations. The Chinese Academy of Sciences Earth System Model version 2 (CAS-ESM2.0) has successfully fixed a two-way coupling of atmospheric CO2 with the climate and carbon cycle on land and in the ocean. Using CAS-ESM2.0, we conducted a coupled carbon-climate simulation by following the CMIP6 proposal of a historical emissions-driven experiment. This paper examines the modeled CO2 by comparison with observed CO2 at the sites of Mauna Loa and Barrow, and the Greenhouse Gases Observing Satellite (GOSAT) CO2 product. The results showed that CAS-ESM2.0 agrees very well with observations in reproducing the increasing trend of annual CO2 during the period 1850–2014, and in capturing the seasonal cycle of CO2 at the two baseline sites, as well as over northern high latitudes. These agreements illustrate a good ability of CAS-ESM2.0 in simulating carbon-climate interactions, even though uncertainties remain in the processes involved. This paper reports an important stage of the development of CAS-ESM with the coupling of carbon and climate, which will provide significant scientific support for climate research and China's goal of carbon neutrality. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]
- Published
- 2024
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22. Segment Anything Model Can Not Segment Anything: Assessing AI Foundation Model's Generalizability in Permafrost Mapping.
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Li, Wenwen, Hsu, Chia-Yu, Wang, Sizhe, Yang, Yezhou, Lee, Hyunho, Liljedahl, Anna, Witharana, Chandi, Yang, Yili, Rogers, Brendan M., Arundel, Samantha T., Jones, Matthew B., McHenry, Kenton, and Solis, Patricia
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LANGUAGE models , *BUILDING foundations , *ARTIFICIAL intelligence , *PERMAFROST , *GLOBAL warming , *TUNDRAS - Abstract
This paper assesses trending AI foundation models, especially emerging computer vision foundation models and their performance in natural landscape feature segmentation. While the term foundation model has quickly garnered interest from the geospatial domain, its definition remains vague. Hence, this paper will first introduce AI foundation models and their defining characteristics. Built upon the tremendous success achieved by Large Language Models (LLMs) as the foundation models for language tasks, this paper discusses the challenges of building foundation models for geospatial artificial intelligence (GeoAI) vision tasks. To evaluate the performance of large AI vision models, especially Meta's Segment Anything Model (SAM), we implemented different instance segmentation pipelines that minimize the changes to SAM to leverage its power as a foundation model. A series of prompt strategies were developed to test SAM's performance regarding its theoretical upper bound of predictive accuracy, zero-shot performance, and domain adaptability through fine-tuning. The analysis used two permafrost feature datasets, ice-wedge polygons and retrogressive thaw slumps because (1) these landform features are more challenging to segment than man-made features due to their complicated formation mechanisms, diverse forms, and vague boundaries; (2) their presence and changes are important indicators for Arctic warming and climate change. The results show that although promising, SAM still has room for improvement to support AI-augmented terrain mapping. The spatial and domain generalizability of this finding is further validated using a more general dataset EuroCrops for agricultural field mapping. Finally, we discuss future research directions that strengthen SAM's applicability in challenging geospatial domains. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]
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- 2024
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23. A Systematic Review on the Studies of Thermal Comfort in Urban Residential Buildings in China.
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Lin, Yaolin, Chen, Pengju, Yang, Wei, Hu, Xiancun, and Tian, Lin
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THERMAL comfort , *CLIMATIC zones , *DWELLINGS , *GLOBAL warming , *ATMOSPHERIC temperature , *COLD adaptation , *WINTER , *SUMMER , *GEOTHERMAL ecology - Abstract
There have been fruitful publications on thermal comfort of urban residential buildings in China. However, there is a lack of reviews on this topic to perform a comprehensive analysis and find opportunities to meet occupants' thermal comfort needs while improving building energy efficiencies. This paper addresses this issue by presenting a systematic review on the advancements in research on thermal comfort in urban residential buildings in China. Firstly, two common thermal comfort research approaches, i.e., field studies and laboratory studies, are discussed. Secondly, eleven main thermal comfort evaluation indicators are summarized. Finally, this paper analyzes the thermal comfort survey data from different researchers, discusses the impacts of adaptive behaviors on human thermal comfort, and provides recommendations for future research on urban residential thermal comfort. It was found that people have higher and higher requirements for their indoor thermal environment as time goes by, especially in the winter; the thermoneutral temperature is higher in warmer climate regions in the summer but lower in the winter than in colder climate regions; the thermoneutral temperature tends to increase with the indoor air temperature due to an adaptation to the indoor thermal environment. The outcomes of this paper provide valuable information on thermal comfort behaviors of urban residents in different climate zones in China, which can serve as a resource for the academic community conducting future research on thermal comfort and assist policymakers in enhancing building energy efficiencies without compromising the occupants' comfort. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]
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- 2024
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24. A review on battery health monitoring system.
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Jha, Krityanand, Lal, Abhijeet, and Agrawal, Abhishek
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HYBRID electric vehicles , *HYBRID electric cars , *BATTERY management systems , *ELECTRIC automobiles , *LEAD-acid batteries , *GLOBAL warming , *CLEAN energy , *INTERNET of things - Abstract
As people become more aware of global warming, the need for clean fuel and energy is increasing, and as a result, there is a steady trend toward electric automobiles and hybrid electric vehicles. The depth of discharge (DOD), temperature, and charging algorithm all have an impact on battery performance. Using the internet of things, this study seeks to offer a measurement of the battery's voltage and current level. Lead-acid batteries are capable of powering a wide range of applications. They're simple to find, affordable, and deliver a lot of power to anything they're connected to. Unfortunately, if the charge is not monitored, the battery will ultimately run out of power. current and voltage of battery is required in extra to finding the charge of the battery. The approximate charge of the battery may be determined based on the battery's output voltage. This paper summarizes a number of studies on battery health monitoring systems. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]
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- 2024
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25. A radiative cooling paper based on ceramic fiber for thermal management of human head.
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Li, Yiping, An, Zhimin, Liu, Xinchao, and Zhang, Rubing
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CERAMIC fibers , *DAYLIGHT , *HOT weather conditions , *IMPACT strength , *GLOBAL warming , *FIBERS - Abstract
The intensification of global warming has resulted in extremely hot weather in many parts of the world, posing a severe challenge to the health and safety of outdoor workers. Passive daytime radiative cooling (PDRC) textiles with no energy input requirements can effectively achieve temperature management. However, few wearable radiative cooling devices have been successfully prepared. This study demonstrates a radiative cooling paper (RCP) with tunable stiffness for the thermal management of human head by using SiO 2 fibers and fumed SiO 2 as emitters. The as-prepared RCP exhibits high sunlight reflectivity of 0.97, and high emissivity of 0.91 in the atmospheric window. The results demonstrate that the RCP hat can prevent hair from overheating by reducing the temperature by an average of 12.9 °C compared with a white cotton hat under peak daylight conditions. Besides, the RCP exhibits outstanding integrated properties of high mechanical properties, waterproofness, and air permeability. Therefore, it is more suitable than other textiles for the manufacture of radiative cooling hats, and offers a promising solution to solve the problem of head thermal management in outdoor conditions. [Display omitted] • This study designed and prepared a ceramic fiber paper with remarkable passive daytime radiative cooling performance. • The radiative cooling paper (RCP) exhibits good impact strength, superhydrophobicity, and air permeability. • The RCP is suitable for the manufacture of radiative cooling hat to achieve the thermal management of human head. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]
- Published
- 2022
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26. Temporal Patterns of Vegetation Greenness for the Main Forest-Forming Tree Species in the European Temperate Zone.
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Kulesza, Kinga and Hościło, Agata
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MODIS (Spectroradiometer) , *CLIMATE change , *VEGETATION greenness , *VEGETATION patterns , *GLOBAL warming - Abstract
In light of recently accelerating global warming, the changes in vegetation trends are vital for the monitoring of the dynamics of both whole ecosystems and individual species. Detecting changes within the time series of specific forest ecosystems or species is very important in the context of assessing their vulnerability to climate change and other negative phenomena. Hence, the aim of this paper was to identify the trend change points and periods of greening and browning in multi-annual time series of the normalised difference vegetation index (NDVI) and enhanced vegetation index (EVI) of four main forest-forming tree species in the temperate zone: pine, spruce, oak and beech. The research was conducted over the last two decades (2002–2022), and was based on vegetation indices data derived from the Moderate Resolution Imaging Spectroradiometer (MODIS). To this end, several research approaches, including calculating the linear trends in the moving periods and BEAST algorithm, were adapted. A pattern of browning then greening then constant was detected for coniferous species, mostly pine. In turn, for broadleaved species, namely oak and beech, a pattern of greening then constant was identified, without the initial phase of browning. The main trend change points seem to be ca. 2006 and ca. 2015 for coniferous species and solely around 2015 for deciduous ones. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]
- Published
- 2024
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27. Long-term variability of the MERRA-2 radiation budget over Poland in Central Europe.
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Markowicz, Krzysztof M., Okrasa, Igor, Chiliński, Michał T., Makuch, Przemysław, Nurowska, Katarzyna, Posyniak, Michał A., Rozwadowska, Anna, Sobolewski, Piotr, and Zawadzka-Mańko, Olga
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GLOBAL warming , *SURFACE of the earth , *RADIATION , *CLOUDINESS , *ATMOSPHERIC temperature - Abstract
This paper discusses the radiation budget and its temporal variability over Poland. The data analysis is based on the MERRA-2 reanalysis for the years 1980–2020. During the last four decades, the enhancement of climate warming has been observed, which coincides with the changes in the radiation budget. Positive and statistically significant trends at the top of the atmosphere (TOA; 0.7 ± 0.2 W/m2/10 year) and on the Earth's surface (1.5 ± 0.2 W/m2/10 year) radiation budget (net downward flux) are mainly a consequence of changes in the amount of aerosol and greenhouse gases (GHG). According to MERRA-2, the AOD during this period decreased by − 0.19 (at 550 nm), which is 87% of the long-term (1980–2021) mean value (0.22). The reduction of AOD is due mainly to the decline of non-absorbing sulfate particles, which leads to a reduction of single-scattering albedo (SSA) by − 0.008 per decade and Angstrom exponent (AE) by − 0.06 per decade (both trends statistically significant). On the other hand, the GHG concentration increased by 4.9%/10 year and 3%/10 year, respectively, for CO2 and CH4. The total column of water vapor increased (1.3%/10 year), while ozone decreased (− 1%/10 year). Despite the fact that cloud cover and cloud optical depth (COD) decreased (− 1.8%/10 year and − 1.0%/10 year), the impact of cloud on temporal variability radiation budget is small. It can be explained by nearly compensated shortwave (SW) cooling and longwave (LW) heating effects. During the analysis period, near-surface air temperature increased by 2.0 °C. The estimated increase in SW net surface radiation (7.9 W/m2) leads to climate warming by 0.8 °C, which is a consequence mainly of the reduction of aerosol (0.4 °C) and cloud cover (0.2 °C). The impact of the change of SW radiation on air temperature is more pronounced during the warm season, while during the cold, air temperature change is controlled mainly by the variability of air mass advection. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]
- Published
- 2024
- Full Text
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28. Role of cyclone activity in summer precipitation over the northern margin of Eurasia.
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Lu, Chuhan, Bai, Yawen, Liu, Li, Kong, Yang, and Chen, Xiaoxiao
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CYCLONES , *HUMIDITY , *GLOBAL warming , *SUMMER - Abstract
In recent decades, the atmospheric moisture capacity has increased globally in concert with global warming, with a particularly notable warming trend in Arctic regions. However, due to limited observational data, the variation and causes of polar precipitation, especially large-scale precipitation events associated with Arctic cyclones, remain unclear. In this paper, GPM satellite data are compared with ERA5 reanalysis data to explore the characteristics of summer precipitation at the northern margin of the Eurasian region (NMER) and the influence of cyclone activity on precipitation. It is revealed that high precipitation values in the Arctic region, as indicated by the GPM and ERA5 data, are mainly concentrated at the NMER. However, the GPM data show an overall larger precipitation amount, while the station observations more closely agree with the ERA5 precipitation changes at the NMER. The cyclone identification results indicate that summer cyclones at the NMER are mainly distributed in the Barents, Kara and Laptev Seas, and the precipitation contribution rate of ERA5-derived cyclones is 37.35%, which is significantly higher than that of GPM-derived cyclones (29.47%). Furthermore, high cyclone activity results in more intense precipitation, with the top 5% of the strongest cyclones contributing 60% (GPM) and 40% (ERA5) to the total cyclonic precipitation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]
- Published
- 2024
- Full Text
- View/download PDF
29. Investment treaty reforms to prevent developing country regulatory chill from causing global warming.
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Horn, Henrik
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- *
INVESTMENT treaties , *GLOBAL warming , *REFORMS , *DOUBLE tax agreements ,DEVELOPING countries ,DEVELOPED countries - Abstract
Developing countries have more than 1300 investment treaties with developed countries. Investment treaties are often alleged to constrain developing countries' climate policies. This paper examines four treaty reforms that are often suggested as remedies to such regulatory chill. It considers an investment treaty that protects a stranded developed country investment in a developing country. The reforms are compared with regard to whether they can induce the developing country to regulate the investment, and their political attractiveness. The reforms are shown to have features that seem to have gone unnoticed in the debate. Exclusion of investor-state dispute settlement (ISDS) may be ineffective due to a hold-up problem, and if effective requires unlawful regulation by the host country. A shortening of a sunset period applicable to unilateral withdrawal can postpone regulation. A reduction in the amount of stipulated compensation can induce the developing country to phase out the stranded investment, but will require a compensation payment from the developing country to the developed country investor. The reform with best potential to address stranded investment problems appears to be an increase in a carve-out from the compensation requirement for measures with sufficiently positive climate effect. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]
- Published
- 2024
- Full Text
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30. Technological assessment of waste value change: implementation of CE concepts for implementing loop economy.
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Diwan, Hema, Mandy, Juan, Singh, Jitender, and Kavasia, Hitesh
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SOLID waste management , *COMPOSTING , *PRODUCT life cycle assessment , *LANDFILL gases , *GLOBAL warming - Abstract
The Municipal Solid Waste Management (MSWM) system has been used as a unit of study to apply the Life Cycle Assessment (LCA) approach. Kanjur waste processing facility Mumbai, India was selected for technological performance assessment. The paper analyses multiple strategies for managing the MSW and the comparison of strategies is done to study impact on Global Warming Potential (GWP), Eutrophication Potential (GW) and Acidification potential (AP), which are the critical impact areas of MSW processing. The scenarios included were transportation, material recovery, direct landfill with the recovery of LFG, composting of the source-separated organic fraction with landfilling and biomining. Landfilling and the release of LFG (Landfill Gas), electricity generation from LFG, flaring of LFG were other assessed interventions. The scenarios were modelled using the CML impact characterisation method. The results highlight that sorting, biomining, composting, landfilling with energy recovery has the minimal impact on the environment compared to strategies where direct landfilling was considered. On a life cycle view, the transportation of waste to the processing site caused a significant global warming impact and is a hotspot, which can be considered for impact mitigation. Initiatives like RDF reuse, leachate recirculation, LFG recovery, biomining are other circular practices that lead to a significant reduction in GWP, EP and AP. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]
- Published
- 2024
- Full Text
- View/download PDF
31. Analysis of Flash Drought and Its Impact on Forest Normalized Difference Vegetation Index (NDVI) in Northeast China from 2000 to 2020.
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Adhikari, Saraswoti, Zhou, Wanying, Dou, Zeyu, Sakib, Nazmus, Ma, Rong, Chaudhari, Bhavana, and Liu, Binhui
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- *
FOREST dynamics , *GLOBAL warming , *SOIL moisture , *HIGH temperatures , *SEASONS - Abstract
Flash drought is characterized by rapid onset and short-duration drought conditions caused by a combination of factors, including high evaporation, high temperature, and prolonged periods of little to no precipitation, leading to a sudden and severe decrease in soil moisture levels. In comparison to conventional drought, it is more susceptible to the effects of global warming and has the potential to become a common drought phenomenon in the coming years, necessitating further research. In this paper, we focused on flash drought events, specifically in forest parts of northeastern China that are included within the Greater Khingan Mountains (GKM), Lesser Khingan Mountains (LKM), and Changbai Mountains (CM), using daily soil moisture data as well as SPOT- VEGETATION NDVI satellite data from 2000 to 2020 and determined their impact on the forest NDVI. Our major findings are as follows. (1) The forest within GKM had the maximum area being affected by flash drought events. (2) The frequency ranged from 1 to 2 times, whereas the total duration varied between 20 and 55 days over the study area in a 21-year period. (3) Flash drought was most common in the plant-growing seasons. (4) The flash drought events had a negative influence on the forest NDVI. Our study contributes to a deeper understanding of the flash drought dynamics in forest areas of northeast China for flash drought monitoring, prediction, and management strategies in this region. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]
- Published
- 2024
- Full Text
- View/download PDF
32. How Selective Mobility, Social and Ecological Influence may Impact Geographic Variations in Life Satisfaction Scores: An Australian Longitudinal Study.
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Lignier, Phil, Jarvis, Diane, Grainger, Daniel, and Chaiechi, Taha
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LIFE satisfaction , *SOCIAL influence , *GEOGRAPHIC mobility , *GLOBAL warming , *CITY dwellers , *TRADITIONAL ecological knowledge - Abstract
The spatial clustering of life satisfaction scores noted in recent empirical research suggests that 'happier' people may live in specific neighbourhoods or regions. This prompts the questions: Do 'happier' people choose to move to specific places? Does living in specific places make people 'happier'? To answer these questions, this paper explores possible occurrences of selective mobility, and social and ecological influence. Using panel data collected in Australia from 2013 to 2021, we examine the association between life satisfaction scores and selective geographic mobility, and the possible influence that living at specific locations may have on individual life satisfaction trajectory, while controlling for individual personality traits and socio-demographic factors. Our results indicate that urban residents reporting lower life satisfaction scores before the move have a higher probability of moving to a rural area. Similarly, lower life satisfaction scores are associated with a higher probability of moving to a region with a different climate. We also find evidence that moving from the city to the country is associated with an uplift of the life satisfaction trajectory for the individual. A similar conclusion is reached for people who moved to a warmer climate, but not for a move to a cooler climate. To our knowledge, this is the first time the concepts of selective mobility and social and ecological influence have been applied in life satisfaction research. Our work provides an indicator that can be important to demographers predicting population movements. It can also inform policy development around assisting regional and rural areas attract/ retain residents to support regional sustainability. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]
- Published
- 2024
- Full Text
- View/download PDF
33. "In the end, the story of climate change was one of hope and redemption": ChatGPT's narrative on global warming.
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Sommer, Bernd and von Querfurth, Sarah
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CHATGPT , *GLOBAL warming , *SCIENTIFIC knowledge , *CLIMATE justice , *CHATBOTS , *CLIMATE change - Abstract
AI chatbots such as ChatGPT help people produce texts. According to media reporting, these texts are also used for educational purposes. Thus, AI influences people's knowledge and perception of current issues. This paper examines the narrative of ChatGPT's stories on climate change. Our explorative analysis reveals that ChatGPT's stories on climate change show a relatively uniform structure and similar content. Generally, the narrative is in line with scientific knowledge on climate change; the stories convey no significant misinformation. However, specific topics in current debates on global warming are conspicuously missing. According to the ChatGPT narrative, humans as a species are responsible for climate change and specific economic activities or actors associated with carbon emissions play no role. Analogously, the social structuration of vulnerability to climate impacts and issues of climate justice are hardly addressed. ChatGPT's narrative consists of de-politicized stories that are highly optimistic about technological progress. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]
- Published
- 2024
- Full Text
- View/download PDF
34. Ten tips from the Swiss Working Group on Sustainable Nephrology on how to go green in your dialysis unit.
- Author
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Pruijm, Menno, Rho, Elena, Woywodt, Alexander, and Segerer, Stephan
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WEATHER & climate change , *NEPHROLOGY , *RENAL replacement therapy , *HEMODIALYSIS , *WATER consumption - Abstract
The health-care system and particularly renal replacement therapy has a significant carbon footprint adding to global warming and extreme weather conditions. Improving sustainability has become the focus of national and international working groups. Many reviews underline the need for improvement of sustainability in nephrology, in particular dialysis, and provide recommendations on how to reduce waste, energy, and water consumption. However, how to implement these recommendations, and where to start, is not always clear. This paper summarizes discussions within the 'working group on sustainable nephrology' of the Swiss Society of Nephrology. We do not provide a detailed review of the topic but instead present a practical 10-point action plan to help health-care workers in nephrology make a start and improve the carbon footprint of their dialysis centres. We emphasize the importance of ongoing research, cooperation, and dialogue, and welcome additional ideas from the wider renal community. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]
- Published
- 2024
- Full Text
- View/download PDF
35. Study on Spatial-Temporal Evolution, Decoupling Effect and Influencing Factors of Tourism Transportation Carbon Emissions: Taking North China as an Example.
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Feng, Dongni, Li, Cheng, and Li, Yangzhou
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CARBON emissions , *GLOBAL warming , *TOURISM , *CITIES & towns , *PANEL analysis - Abstract
As global warming intensifies, reducing carbon emissions has become a global common mission. Tourism transportation is one of the important sources of carbon emissions, and reducing its carbon emissions is a key part of achieving China's carbon reduction goals. Based on the panel data of various provinces and cities in North China from 2000 to 2022, this paper calculates the carbon emissions of tourism transportation by using the carbon emission coefficients of different transportation modes in different segments. Moreover, the temporal and spatial evolution of the tourism economy is systematically analyzed. The Tapio decoupling model and LMDI addition decomposition model are used to analyze the relationship between carbon emissions and tourism economic growth and the effects of 11 influencing factors on carbon emissions. The results show that: (1) The carbon emission of tourism transportation in North China has experienced four stages: a steady growth period, a transitional adaptation period, a stable equilibrium period, and a drastic decline period. The overall carbon emission level of tourism transportation is as follows: Hebei Province > Shanxi Province > Inner Mongolia Autonomous Region > Beijing City > Tianjin City. (2) The decoupling coefficient between tourism traffic carbon emissions and economic development fluctuates but mainly shows a weak decoupling state. (3) In terms of influencing factors, passenger size and passenger density have the greatest impact on the carbon emissions of tourism transportation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]
- Published
- 2024
- Full Text
- View/download PDF
36. Potential Strengthening of the Madden–Julian Oscillation Modulation of Tropical Cyclogenesis.
- Author
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Haertel, Patrick and Liang, Yu
- Subjects
- *
MADDEN-Julian oscillation , *GREENHOUSE gases , *ATMOSPHERIC models , *CYCLOGENESIS , *TROPICAL cyclones , *OCEAN waves , *RADIATIVE forcing - Abstract
A typical Madden–Julian Oscillation (MJO) generates a large region of enhanced rainfall over the equatorial Indian Ocean that moves slowly eastward into the western Pacific. Tropical cyclones often form on the poleward edges of the MJO moist-convective envelope, frequently impacting both southeast Asia and northern Australia, and on occasion Eastern Africa. This paper addresses the question of whether these MJO-induced tropical cyclones will become more numerous in the future as the oceans warm. The Lagrangian Atmosphere Model (LAM), which has been carefully tuned to simulate realistic MJO circulations, is used to study the sensitivity of MJO modulation of tropical cyclogenesis (TCG) to global warming. A control simulation for the current climate is compared with a simulation with enhanced radiative forcing consistent with that for the latter part of the 21st century under Shared Socioeconomic Pathway (SSP) 585. The LAM control run reproduces the observed MJO modulation of TCG, with about 70 percent more storms forming than monthly climatology predicts within the MJO's convective envelope. The LAM SSP585 run suggests that TCG enhancement within the convective envelope could reach 170 percent of the background value under a high greenhouse gas emissions scenario, owing to a strengthening of Kelvin and Rossby wave components of the MJO's circulation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]
- Published
- 2024
- Full Text
- View/download PDF
37. Temperature–precipitation trends and response of high-altitude biodiversity reserve of western Himalayas.
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Anand, Aryan and Garg, Vinod Kumar
- Subjects
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BIOSPHERE reserves , *SNOW cover , *BIODIVERSITY , *VEGETATION patterns , *LANDSAT satellites - Abstract
Biodiversity reserves are a crucial in-situ method to conserve biodiversity hotspots as they are sensitive to climate change. The Nanda Devi Biosphere Reserve (NDBR) in the western Himalayas is enriched with diverse endemic flora and fauna and endorses the second-highest mountain peak in the world. However, in the recent decade, this region has potentially warmed at an alarming rate. With 36 temperature and precipitation indices from high-resolution 40-year data from ERA5 reanalysis and CHIRPS, this paper assesses the state of warming and extreme climatic events. Apart from the indices, Landsat (NASA/USGS, USA) and QuickSCAT (ISRO, India) were utilized to assess the region's response to climate change. An increase of 0.73ºC in the last decade for minimum, 0.26°C for maximum temperatures was observed, with the highest anomaly of 1.7°C in 2016. The reserve's vegetation pattern has changed with the vegetative region's dispersal towards the north and higher elevations. In the year 2000, the area without any vegetation covered 79% of the total area, which declined to a mere 23.8% in the year 2020, equivalent to a 70% decline in the area. Similarly, the area with very dense region covered only 0.02% of the total area in the year 2000, and in the year 2020, it increased to 109%. Snow cover seems to be worst affected in the region with dense snow cover declining maximum by 2020. From coverage of 12.3% of the total area of the reserves, it was reduced to a mere 0.02%, showing a decline of nearly 100% in the region. Our findings show that although protected areas are meant to be resilient to external anthropogenic intrusions, they are highly susceptible to the intrinsic forces of induced climate change. We suggest that reserve managers enable robust measures to identify the distribution of vulnerable species and introduce new methods to preserve the pristine hotspot region. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]
- Published
- 2024
- Full Text
- View/download PDF
38. Advancements in Electrodeposition for Precise Manufacturing and Sustainability.
- Author
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Badalbayli, Anar, Sinclair, Nicolas, Bernasconi, Roberto, Borisenko, Natalia, Venkatesh, Krishna, Ispas, Adriana, Akolkar, Rohan, and Magagnin, Luca
- Subjects
- *
CARBON dioxide mitigation , *CIRCULAR economy , *GREENHOUSE effect , *ELECTROPLATING , *GLOBAL warming , *MANUFACTURING processes - Abstract
Simply expressed, the circular economy implies that the people living on Earth should reuse and recycle the products that are currently in use as long as possible and reduce the waste produced, thus reducing CO2 emissions. The latter goal is fundamental from the perspective of mitigating the well-known greenhouse effect and the consequent global warming observed at the planetary scale. Under these conditions, advanced electrodeposition processes can play a fundamental role in the optimization of materials use and in the reduction of the energetic footprint for a wide variety of industrial processes. The aim of the present paper is precisely to suggest how this is possible, showing readers the potential that electrodeposition holds for efficient manufacturing of many different products that have a huge significance for industry. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]
- Published
- 2024
- Full Text
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39. Review of Recent Applications of Heat Pipe Heat Exchanger Use for Waste Heat Recovery.
- Author
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Ding, Yi, Guo, Qiang, Guo, Wenyuan, Chu, Wenxiao, and Wang, Qiuwang
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HEAT pipes , *HEAT exchangers , *HEAT recovery , *GLOBAL warming , *FOSSIL fuels - Abstract
With the reduction in fossil fuels and growing concerns about global warming, energy has become one of the most important issues facing humanity. It is crucial to improve energy utilization efficiency and promote a low-carbon transition. In comparison with traditional heat exchangers, heat pipe heat exchangers indicate high compactness, a flexible arrangement, complete separation of hot and cold fluids, good isothermal operations, etc. As a result, heat pipe heat exchangers have attracted wide attention and application in various fields in recent years. This paper provides an overview of the application of heat pipe heat exchangers, with a focus on the application in waste heat recovery, and analyzes the opportunities and challenges of heat pipe heat exchanger applications based on existing publications. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]
- Published
- 2024
- Full Text
- View/download PDF
40. A methodological critique on using temperature-conditioned resampling for climate projections as in the paper of Gerstengarbe et al. (2013) winter storm- and summer thunderstorm-related loss events in Theoretical and Applied Climatology (TAC).
- Author
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Wechsung, Frank and Wechsung, Maximilian
- Subjects
- *
CLIMATOLOGY , *GLOBAL warming , *TEMPERATURE , *WINTER , *GENERAL circulation model - Abstract
The STatistical Analogue Resampling Scheme (STARS) statistical approach was recently used to project changes of climate variables in Germany corresponding to a supposed degree of warming. We show by theoretical and empirical analysis that STARS simply transforms interannual gradients between warmer and cooler seasons into climate trends. According to STARS projections, summers in Germany will inevitably become dryer and winters wetter under global warming. Due to the dominance of negative interannual correlations between precipitation and temperature during the year, STARS has a tendency to generate a net annual decrease in precipitation under mean German conditions. Furthermore, according to STARS, the annual level of global radiation would increase in Germany. STARS can be still used, e.g., for generating scenarios in vulnerability and uncertainty studies. However, it is not suitable as a climate downscaling tool to access risks following from changing climate for a finer than general circulation model (GCM) spatial scale. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]
- Published
- 2016
- Full Text
- View/download PDF
41. The role of selected environmental factors and the type of work performed on the development of urolithiasis - a review paper.
- Author
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WRÓBEL, GRZEGORZ, KUDER, TADEUSZ, and Wróbel, Grzegorz
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GENITOURINARY diseases , *CLIMATE change , *FOOD habits , *CHEMICAL reactions , *URINARY organs , *GLOBAL warming - Abstract
Urolithiasis is a disease of the genitourinary system, which is defined as the presence of urinary stones at any place in the urinary tract, resulting from the precipitation reaction of chemical compounds. The aim of this study is to demonstrate the important role of selected environmental factors (climate, ambient temperature) and the type of profession performed in the development of urolithiasis. In this field, the literature including original and review papers related to the epidemiology, pathogenesis and risk factors of urolithiasis was analyzed. The study used electronic databases such as Medline, Web of Science and Google Scholar. The prevalence of urolithiasis has increased in recent decades in both developed and developing countries. It is believed that this growing trend is associated with lifestyle changes such as the lack of physical activity, poor eating habits and global warming. Many factors are responsible for the formation of urinary stones. In literature, there is a division into individual and environmental factors. Today, external factors in the form of climate changes (global warming), geographical conditions and seasonal fluctuations, and the type of profession performed are becoming more and more important in the context of the occurrence of urinary stones. Currently, the presence of urolithiasis is becoming a significant problem all over the world and searching for causes is not easy, but particular attention should be paid to certain predispositions resulting from environmental factors, such as ambient temperature and the type of work performed. Int J Occup Med Environ Health. 2019;32(6):761-75. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]
- Published
- 2019
- Full Text
- View/download PDF
42. A novel global average temperature prediction model——based on GM-ARIMA combination model.
- Author
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Chen, Xiaoxin, Jiang, Zhansi, Cheng, Hao, Zheng, Hongxin, Cai, Danna, and Feng, Yuanpeng
- Subjects
- *
BOX-Jenkins forecasting , *PREDICTION models , *STATISTICAL models , *DECISION making , *STANDARD deviations , *GLOBAL warming - Abstract
In recent years, under the influence of changes in natural conditions and human social activities, the issue of global warming has become increasingly prominent. So it is crucial to effectively predict the future trend of temperature changes. In this regard, from the perspective of statistical models, this paper studies a new combination model, namely the new GM-ARIMA model, based on linear combination of weight calculation. Furthermore, it also analyzes the prediction effect through comparative experiments and uses multiple performance evaluation indicators, so as to prove the scientificity and effectiveness of the proposed combination model in this paper. Finally, according to the experimental results, it can be clearly found that among the four methods for calculating the weights of linear combination, namely the equal weight method, the variance reciprocal method, the residual reciprocal method and the standard deviation method, the combination model using the standard deviation method for calculation has the highest prediction accuracy, so it is finally decided to use this method to build the combination model (namely S-GM-ARIMA). In addition, the experimental results show that the S-GM-ARIMA model achieves the best prediction results compared to other existing prediction models. Among them, the MAE of S-GM-ARIMA decreases by 10.38% and 16.22% compared to the GM(1,1) model and ARIMA model, respectively. The RMSE of S-GM-ARIMA decreases by 4.52% and 10.03% compared to the GM(1,1) model and ARIMA model, respectively. And the MAPE of S-GM-ARIMA decreases by 10.34% and 16.17% compared to the GM(1,1) model and ARIMA model, respectively. Therefore, the new GM-ARIMA combination model studied in this paper has relatively higher prediction accuracy when making predictions, and can be used to make more effective and accurate predictions of global average temperature. This study can also provide reference for countries in making decisions to address global warming issues. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]
- Published
- 2024
- Full Text
- View/download PDF
43. Environmentally Induced Diseases Caused by Changes in Meteorological Factors: Diagnosis and Ways to Counteract.
- Author
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Yakovlev, M. Yu., Rakhmanin, Yu. A., and Bobrovnitskii, I. P.
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ENVIRONMENTALLY induced diseases , *AIR pollution , *MEDICAL geography , *SOIL pollution , *EXTREME weather , *CLIMATE change & health - Abstract
Climatic and geographic factors characterizing local conditions, as well as the ecological state of the external environment, have a direct effect on human health, morbidity, and life expectancy. The paper considers the basic concepts of medical ecology, a pathogenetic role of environmental atmospheric pollution in the development of environmentally induced and environmentally dependent diseases associated with exposure to meteorological factors. In addition to the major hygienic risk factors affecting the public health (a level of air, water, and soil pollution), the levels of acoustic and electromagnetic background, the type of human nutrition, architectural and planning conditions of human life are of significant importance. Global climate warming causes numerous environmental changes, primarily an increase in surface air temperature, which in turn entails global changes in weather conditions that lead to various weather anomalies. Human health is directly dependent on environmental conditions and a degree of adaptation to them. The paper highlights the issues of diagnosing environmentally induced diseases and measures to counteract their spread. Based on the system diagnosis using physiological indicators of human health and the integration of the adaptation and nosological approaches, a hardware-software complex has been developed and introduced into medical practice. Corrective technologies of regenerative medicine that are used for ecologically dependent pathologies are described. Their application in the process of the complex sanatorium and resort treatment is most effective. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]
- Published
- 2024
- Full Text
- View/download PDF
44. Will the 'evapotranspiration paradox' phenomenon exist across China in the future?
- Author
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Li, Zhenjie, Su, Buda, Gao, Miaoni, Tao, Hui, Jiang, Shan, Gong, Yu, Wang, Yanjun, Zhou, Jian, and Jiang, Tong
- Subjects
- *
CLIMATE change models , *EVAPOTRANSPIRATION , *GLOBAL warming , *PARADOX , *SURFACE temperature - Abstract
The uneven changes in potential evapotranspiration (PET) in response to temperature rise are called the 'evapotranspiration paradox' phenomenon, which is expected to intensify further under a warming climate. In this paper, we explored the spatial–temporal changes in the future 'evapotranspiration paradox' phenomenon over China and its 10 major river sub‐regions under different climate change scenarios. Thus, this paper uses four global climate model outputs under seven shared socioeconomic pathway‐based scenarios (SSP1‐1.9, SSP1‐2.6, SSP2‐4.5, SSP3‐7.0, SSP4‐3.4, SSP4‐6.0 and SSP5‐8.5) from the sixth phase of the Coupled Model Intercomparison Project (CMIP6). Considering the latest IPCC's 6th Assessment Report (AR6), this research emphasizes the 2021–2040 (near‐term), 2041–2060 (mid‐term) and 2081–2100 (long‐term) periods to anticipate the 'evapotranspiration paradox' phenomenon. In this study, PET is estimated based on the modified Penman–Monteith (P‐M) method (considering CO2). Furthermore, the paradox phenomenon in this study is defined considering two pivotal conditions: the surface temperature increases but the evaporation decreases (Type I), and the temperature decreases but the evaporation still tends to increase (Type II). The results show that there were only Type I 'evapotranspiration paradoxes' that existed in the historical period, which were dominant especially before the 1990s. Nearly 50% of the areas experienced the Type I 'evapotranspiration paradox' phenomenon that occurred during 1975–1994 and 1995–2014. Spatially, it covered 100% of the area of the Southeast River (SER) and the Liaohe River (LR) during 1975–1994 and the area of the SER, the HAR, the HHR and the LR during 1995–2014. In the future, the interdecadal growth rate of PET in China is projected to be the highest under the SSP5‐8.5 and the lowest under the SSP3‐7.0 with spatial variation. Importantly, the largest areas of approximately 36% and 45% with the Type I phenomenon are inclined to occur under the SSP1‐1.9 and SSP4‐6.0, respectively, over the long‐term period (2081–2100). The area with the Type I phenomenon will be less than 20% in the near‐term, and it is less than 12% in the mid‐term period. For the Type II evapotranspiration paradox, the uppermost 45% of the area is expected to experience the Type II phenomenon under SSP1‐1.9 during the mid‐term period, while it is 30% under SSP1‐2.6 during the long‐term period. However, this study's findings provide the scientific basis for formulating adaptation and mitigation strategies to combat 'evapotranspiration paradox'‐related extremes at regional scales. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]
- Published
- 2023
- Full Text
- View/download PDF
45. Characteristics of Lightning Activities over the Tibetan Plateau Based on Satellite Detection and Its Circulation Background Analysis.
- Author
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Zhu, Jie, Zhi, Shulin, and Ren, Suling
- Subjects
- *
THUNDERSTORMS , *LIGHTNING , *ATMOSPHERIC circulation , *SEVERE storms , *GLOBAL warming , *POTENTIAL energy - Abstract
Based on the detection data obtained by the LMI (Lightning Mapping Imager)—China's first satellite-based lightning observation payload—from 2018–2022, combined with the ERA5 (ECMWF Reanalysis v5) reanalysis data of the same period, the temporal and spatial characteristics of lightning activities over the Tibetan Plateau and its response to the atmospheric circulation background are studied in detail in this paper. Based on the LMI data, we obtained consistent and continuous long-time-series lightning observation data for the whole region of the plateau for the first time, and the results show that the lightning density in the Tibetan Plateau is much smaller than that in the central and eastern land regions of China (CELR) at the same latitude. Lightning activity was unevenly distributed over the plateau and had obvious seasonal variation characteristics. The monthly amount of lightning and its ratio in the total amount of lightning for the whole year show the characteristics of "increasing first and then decreasing". Most lightning occurs in June and July, which is about a month earlier than that in the CELR. The amount of lightning fluctuated in May and decreased rapidly after August, which is consistent with the local convective thunderstorm season. The hourly lightning frequency at different altitudes over the Tibetan Plateau is consistent with local convections and unique topography, and it is closely related to the features of the local night rain. The results also reveal comparative features between lightning and the atmospheric circulation background on the plateau, such as the wind field, CAPE (convective available potential energy), temperature, and humidity at 500 hPa. In the context of global warming, the average temperature in the central and western regions of the plateau increased in the past five years. This shows that the Tibetan Plateau, as a summer heat source, has a gradual warming trend, and the corresponding convections and lightning activities are also increasing gradually. Lightning activities can be used as an indicator of DCSs (deep convective systems). This paper gives a more comprehensive understanding of the characteristics of lightning activities all over the Tibetan Plateau, especially in the western part of the plateau, which lacked ground-based lightning observation data before. In addition, it reveals the comparative features between the lightning activities and the circulation background over the plateau in the past five years, which is helpful for further understanding the contribution of lightning activities to the plateau's climate change. It can provide some reference for monitoring and researching the severe convective weather over the Tibetan Plateau. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]
- Published
- 2023
- Full Text
- View/download PDF
46. A Review of User Perceptions of Drought Indices and Indicators Used in the Diverse Climates of North America.
- Author
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Heim Jr., Richard R., Bathke, Deborah, Bonsal, Barrie, Cooper, Ernest W. T., Hadwen, Trevor, Kodama, Kevin, McEvoy, Dan, Muth, Meredith, Nielsen-Gammon, John W., Prendeville, Holly R., Ramirez, Reynaldo Pascual, Rippey, Brad, Simeral, David B., Thoman Jr., Richard L., Timlin, Michael S., and Weight, Elizabeth
- Subjects
- *
DROUGHTS , *VEGETATION monitoring , *NORMALIZED difference vegetation index , *CLIMATIC zones , *EVAPOTRANSPIRATION , *GLOBAL warming , *TUNDRAS , *POLAR climate - Abstract
Drought monitoring and early detection have improved greatly in recent decades through the development and refinement of numerous indices and indicators. However, a lack of guidance, based on user experience, exists as to which drought-monitoring tools are most appropriate in a given location. This review paper summarizes the results of targeted user engagement and the published literature to improve the understanding of drought across North America and to enhance the utility of drought-monitoring tools. Workshops and surveys were used to assess and make general conclusions about the perceived performance of drought indicators, indices and impact information used for monitoring drought in the five main Köppen climate types (Tropical, Temperate, Continental, Polar Tundra, Dry) found across Canada, Mexico, and the United States. In Tropical, humid Temperate, and southerly Continental climates, droughts are perceived to be more short-term (less than 6 months) in duration rather than long-term (more than 6 months). In Polar Tundra climates, Dry climates, Temperate climates with dry warm seasons, and northerly Continental climates, droughts are perceived to be more long-term than short-term. In general, agricultural and hydrological droughts were considered to be the most important drought types. Drought impacts related to agriculture, water supply, ecosystem, and human health were rated to be of greatest importance. Users identified the most effective indices and indicators for monitoring drought across North America to be the U.S. Drought Monitor (USDM) and Standardized Precipitation Index (SPI) (or another measure of precipitation anomaly), followed by the Normalized Difference Vegetation Index (NDVI) (or another satellite-observed vegetation index), temperature anomalies, crop status, soil moisture, streamflow, reservoir storage, water use (demand), and reported drought impacts. Users also noted the importance of indices that measure evapotranspiration, evaporative demand, and snow water content. Drought indices and indicators were generally thought to perform equally well across seasons in Tropical and colder Continental climates, but their performance was perceived to vary seasonally in Dry, Temperate, Polar Tundra, and warmer Continental climates, with improved performance during warm and wet times of the year. The drought indices and indicators, in general, were not perceived to perform equally well across geographies. This review paper provides guidance on when (time of year) and where (climate zone) the more popular drought indices and indicators should be used. The paper concludes by noting the importance of understanding how drought, its impacts, and its indicators are changing over time as the climate warms and by recommending ways to strengthen the use of indices and indicators in drought decision making. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]
- Published
- 2023
- Full Text
- View/download PDF
47. An assessment on contingency analysis of DC microgrid.
- Author
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Dalai, Ramaprasanna and Swain, Sarat Chandra
- Subjects
- *
MICROGRIDS , *RENEWABLE energy sources , *ELECTRIC power distribution grids , *RURAL hospitals , *FOSSIL fuel power plants , *GLOBAL warming , *FOSSIL fuels - Abstract
The increasing worldwide concern about global warming and the usage of fossil fuels has increased the demand for clean and environmentally friendly renewable energy sources (RESs) for energy production via the microgrid (MG) paradigm. Among the AC MG then DC MG, the DC has several advantages. DC MGs can be linked to the primary electrical grid or operate independently. As a result, it is an effective mechanism for remote and rural places, and it may be used to power everything from small structures to massive facilities. It has several advantages, such as higher system efficiency, lower cost, and smaller system size. However, protection is a predominant concern, which needs to be occupied upkeep for flat process. In this research the author discussed the various issues and challenges of the DC-MG. Various methods adopted for safeguarding the DC Microgrid system is discussed which mainly includes different current, voltage and impedance operated schemes, different fuses and circuit breakers etc. At the end a comparison is also carried out for evaluating various methods. The paper obliges as a reference for the researcher and industrial working in this field. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]
- Published
- 2024
- Full Text
- View/download PDF
48. Deep refurbishment as a pathway towards decarbonization of the polish residential building sector.
- Author
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Zygmunt, Marcin and Gawin, Dariusz
- Subjects
- *
CARBON dioxide mitigation , *ENERGY consumption of buildings , *DWELLINGS , *GLOBAL warming , *SUSTAINABLE development , *HOUSEKEEPING , *GREENHOUSES - Abstract
Preventing global warming is a crucial issue of today's development. All the present and future actions should be planned to follow the paradigm of sustainable development, which is defined by the sustainability and decarbonization goals. The above-mentioned approach should be applied in all the economic sectors, out of which buildings constitute one of the most important parts. Moreover, it seems common to aim for the improvement of buildings' energy efficiency, due to the fact, that those actions provide considerable economic and environmental profits. Due to the high share of final energy consumption of buildings, it is necessary to decrease that demand, resulting in reduced greenhouse gasses emissions. In this paper, the Polish residential building sector is examined to improve its sustainability. Some pathways towards buildings' decarbonization are described and evaluated by means of their energy and environmental effects. This study is based on the set of representative buildings of Poland and statistical data, following the Urban Energy Modelling paradigm. Both, single-family and multi-family buildings are analyzed, considering their deep refurbishment. Calculations are performed using the TEAC and Energy Plus software, allowing for comprehensive analyses of the Polish residential household sector. The results presented in this paper might be useful for decisionmakers to define a roadmap towards decarbonization of the Polish residential sector. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]
- Published
- 2023
- Full Text
- View/download PDF
49. PropTech: Technological innovation for sustainable real estate.
- Author
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Latif, Siti Nur Farhana Ab, Nawawi, Abdul Hadi, and Wahab, Maszuwita Abdul
- Subjects
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REAL property , *GLOBAL warming , *BUILT environment , *ECOLOGICAL impact , *SUSTAINABLE development - Abstract
Real estate being the largest world class asset is responsible to one-third of the world's gas emission. This will require a significant effort, in which the use of PropTech as technological innovation in real estate to mitigate the impact of global warming efficiently. Despite various research has been conducted to address the global warming challenges, there have been relatively small amounts of materials published discussing the role of PropTech towards the achievement of Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). Utilizing content analysis, this paper explores the sustainability of real estate with the use of real estate technological innovation known as PropTech. This paper contributes to analysing the potential of PropTech application in lowering the carbon footprint towards attaining sustainable built environment. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]
- Published
- 2023
- Full Text
- View/download PDF
50. Comparison of methodologies for estimating the carbon footprint – case study of office paper
- Author
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Dias, Ana Cláudia and Arroja, Luís
- Subjects
- *
ECOLOGICAL impact , *CASE studies , *ISO 14000 Series Standards , *GREENHOUSE effect , *GLOBAL warming , *PAPER industry & the environment - Abstract
Abstract: Currently there are several methodologies available for estimating the carbon footprint of products. In this study a comparison has been made between the outcomes and the implications of three different methodologies applied to office paper: (1) the ISO 14040/14044 standards limited to the analysis of greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions and the corresponding impact category global warming; (2) the PAS 2050; and (3) the Confederation of European Paper Industries (CEPI) framework. The carbon footprint of office paper from cradle-to-costumer is 4.64, 4.74 and 4.29gCO2eq per A4 sheet according to, respectively, the ISO 14040/14044 standards, the PAS 2050 and the CEPI framework. The ISO 14040/14044 standard methodology allows the quantification of 98% of the total GHG emissions with the smallest effort in data collection. The major hot spots are the stages of eucalypt pulp and office paper production and chemical and fuel production for all methodologies. General methodologies such as those analysed in this study are not enough for the comparison of products. More specific rules, such as Product Category Rules, that limit the degree of freedom in the choice of the functional unit, system boundary, allocation rules, data quality, between others, should be developed. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]
- Published
- 2012
- Full Text
- View/download PDF
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