A Computationally Efficient,Time-Dependent Model of the Solar Wind for Use as a Surrogate to Three-Dimensional Numerical Magnetohydrodynamic Simulations

Solar radiation variability spans a wide range in time, ranging from seconds to decadal and longer. The nearly 40 years of measurements of solar irradiance from space established that the total solar irradiance varies by \(\approx 0.1\%\) in phase with the Sun’s magnetic cycle. Specific intervals of the solar spectrum, e.g., ultraviolet (UV), vary by orders of magnitude more. These variations can affect the Earth’s climate in a complex non-linear way. Specifically, some of the processes of interaction between solar UV radiation and the Earth’s atmosphere involve threshold processes and do not require a detailed reconstruction of the solar spectrum. For this reason a spectral UV index based on the (FUV-MUV) color has been recently introduced. This color is calculated using SORCE SOLSTICE integrated fluxes in the FUV and MUV bands. We present in this work the reconstructions of the solar (FUV-MUV) color and Ca ii K and Mg ii indices, from 1749–2015, using a semi-empirical approach based on the reconstruction of the area coverage of different solar magnetic features, i.e., sunspot, faculae and network. We remark that our results are in noteworthy agreement with latest solar UV proxy reconstructions that exploit more sophisticated techniques requiring historical full-disk observations. This makes us confident that our technique can represent an alternative approach which can complement classical solar reconstruction efforts. Moreover, this technique, based on broad-band observations, can be utilized to estimate the activity on Sun-like stars, that cannot be resolved spatially, hosting extra-solar planetary systems.

     

Multi-proxy geoarchaeological study redefines understanding of the paleocoastlines and ancient harbours of Liman Tepe (Iskele, Turkey)

Determining the position of Liman Tepe's (ancient `Clazomenae') archaeological features relative to the coastline is important for understanding their intended function and reconstructing the character of Aegean maritime activities and sea-based trade. Previous attempts at reconstructing harbour locations at Liman Tepe relied on extrapolating paleoenvironments based on modern surface topography. In light of this, samples from a sediment coring survey and terrestrial and underwater archaeological excavations were analysed using multi-proxy geoarchaeological methods to determine paleoenvironmental facies. Micropaleontological (foraminifera), sedimentological (grain-size analysis) and geochemical (δ¹³C/δ¹⁸O) analyses resulted in the reconstruction of the coastal paleogeomorphology, including the presence and absence of ancient harbouring areas. Neither of the previous coastal reconstructions was supported by the new results. Instead, two separate harbouring areas were recognized, one coincident with the Early Bronze Age (4800–3900 years bp) and a second during the archaic and classical periods ( c. 2800–2400 years bp). These results emphasize the necessity for multi-proxy geoarchaeological studies when approaching coastal archaeological sites as a means to reconstruct paleocoastal geomorphology and understand ancient maritime development better .     

Narrowband dm-spikes in the 2 GHz frequency range and MHD cascading waves in reconnection outflows

Two examples of clouds of narrowband dm-spikes, observed by the Ondejov radiospectrograph in the 1–2 GHz frequency range, are analyzed. After transformation of the frequency scales to distances in the solar atmosphere, the power spectra analysis of size scales reveals a spectral index of –5/3, resembling that of Kolmogorov spectra of turbulent cascades. The narrowband dm-spikes are interpreted as radio emission from electrons accelerated in MHD cascading waves, probably generated in plasma outflows from magnetic field reconnection.     

Co‐evolution of riparian vegetation and channel dynamics in an aggrading braided river system,Mount Pinatubo,Philippines

Increased bank stability by riparian vegetation can have profound impacts on channel morphology and dynamics in low‐energy systems, but the effects are less clear in high‐energy environments. Here we investigate the role of vegetation in active, aggrading braided systems at Mount Pinatubo, Philippines, and compare results with numerical modeling results. Gradual reductions in post‐eruption sediment loads have reduced bed reworking rates, allowing vegetation to finally persist year‐round on the Pasig‐Potrero and Sacobia Rivers. From 2009–2011 we collected data detailing vegetation extent, type, density, and root strength. Incorporating these data into the RipRoot model and BSTEM (Bank Stability and Toe Erosion Model) shows cohesion due to roots increases from zero in unvegetated conditions to > 10·2 kPa in densely‐growing grasses. Field‐based parameters were incorporated into a cellular model comparing vegetation strength and sediment mobility effects on braided channel dynamics. The model shows both low sediment mobility and high vegetation strength lead to less active systems, reflecting trends observed in the field. The competing influence of vegetation strength versus channel dynamics is a concept encapsulated in a dimensionless ratio between timescales for vegetation growth and channel reworking known as T*. An estimated T* between 1·5 and 2·3 for the Pasig‐Potrero River suggests channels are still very mobile and likely to remain braided until aggradation rates decline further. Vegetation does have an important effect on channel dynamics, however, by focusing flow and thus aggradation into the unvegetated fraction of braidplain, leading to an aggradational imbalance and transition to a more avulsive state. The future trajectory of channel–vegetation interactions as sedimentation rates decline is complicated by strong seasonal variability in precipitation and sediment loads, driving incision and armoring in the dry season. By 2011, incision during the dry season was substantial enough to lower the water‐table, weaken existing vegetation, and allow for vegetation removal in future avulsions. Copyright © 2015 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.     

Analytical expressions for Fresnel volumes and interface fresnel zones of seismic body waves. Part 2: Transmitted and converted waves. Head waves

Summary Fresnel volumes and interface Fresnel zones of transmitted and head waves are studied. The relation derived for transmitted waves may also be used for converted reflected waves. Considerable attention is devoted to the penetration of Fresnel volumes across structural interfaces, particularly for head waves.     

Origin and contrasting succession pathways of the Western Carpathian calcareous fens revealed by plant and mollusc macrofossils

Calcareous fens are unique environments whose history is almost unexplored. The radiocarbon dates of the basal layers of 49 undisturbed calcareous fens showed that in the Western Carpathians (central Europe) many of the extant fen sites originated fairly recently, with two peaks in the High Middle and Roman Ages, the former corresponding to human‐induced changes of the landscape. Conspicuous number of fens also appeared in the Lateglacial and later in the Bronze Age owing to suitable environmental conditions. The Lateglacial calcareous fens were of semi‐open character with coniferous trees, a heliophilous understorey, and mollusc communities composed of several snail species typical of glacial landscapes. We found wood of Taxus baccata in six localities between 7390 and 600 cal. a BP, suggesting that calcareous fens could have represented a refugial habitat for this red‐listed species during the middle Holocene. Using plant macrofossil and mollusc analyses of three representative profiles we illustrate the most common developmental types: (i) fens originating in the Lateglacial, having an open or semi‐open character during the whole Holocene; (ii) open fens originating as wooded wetlands; and (iii) open fens starting their development de novo in the late Holocene. Human activities were responsible for the formation of a high number of calcareous fens, especially in the Outer Western Carpathians, and became important drivers of fen biodiversity development. Only a few recently existing calcareous fens contain old sequences of calcareous deposits. They represent unique natural archives and harbour highly endangered relic populations of fen specialists, making their strict protection urgent.     

Monitoring changes in shoreline position adjacent to the Hadera power station, Israel

The paper focuses on the shoreline changes following the construction of a power station cooling harbor in Hadera, Israel, and uses a statistical analysis method capable of mitigating the effect of short-term changes on the measurement of long-term changes. The changes in shoreline position detected 25 years after the harbor's construction were compared with forecasts of the Central Lab for Hydraulics of France (LCHF) in 1976, which correctly predicted the effects of the construction on the nearby coast and with studies conducted a few years after the construction. A comparison between later studies and the study described herein shows a spatial effect of the harbor on shoreline position of 750 m north of the northern breakwater. No effect was found south of the harbor. The harbor's temporal effects extend over a few years from the beginning of the construction until the coast reaches a new sedimentary equilibrium. The statistical analysis method employed was found useful for the detection of long-term changes in shoreline position such as those caused by the construction of coastal structures; it will not be suitable for the detection of long-term changes resulting from a rise in sea-level.     

High density neighborhoods: Who enjoys them?

To date, research into the subjective aspects of high density has focused mainly on the negative consequences of overcrowding. This study, in contrast, outlines some of the positive aspects of high density in neighborhoods, exploring the physical–spatial environment of two neighborhoods in the city of Haifa, Israel. It was found that while the relatively high residential density was similar in both neighborhoods (40 housing units per acre), this was more positively evaluated in one neighborhood as compared to the other. This can be attributed to some specific environmental and planning features. In particular, where physical planning enabled the potential advantages of high density to be realized, this was positively perceived and evaluated by local residents. Such advantages mainly comprised accessibility to a variety of services, more frequent public transportation, and access to open spaces within walking distance. Particularly advantageous were the increased opportunities for social gathering. At the same time, however, high density did not foster social relationships on the neighborhood level. The study further identified the gender and age groups that benefited most from the high density. Thus, women evaluated high density more positively than men. Young families with children and senior citizens (over 65) were also more likely to benefit, and to evaluate the high density environment more positively than other social groups.