Article
Energy & Fuels
Hailemichael Kebede, Abera Alemu, Mickus Kevin
Summary: This study used ground-based magnetic survey to investigate the subsurface structure of the Ziway-Shala Lakes Basin, with a focus on the Aluto-Langano geothermal field. The analysis of magnetic anomalies revealed the presence of volcanic and geothermal activities, and the distribution of magnetic lineaments suggested potential pathways for geothermal fluid flow.
Article
Geochemistry & Geophysics
B. Chiasera, T. O. Rooney, I. D. Bastow, G. Yirgu, E. B. Grosfils, D. Ayalew, P. Mohr, J. Zimbelman, M. Ramsey
Summary: The study of magmatic activity in the Galema range in the northern Main Ethiopian Rift reveals evidence of magma ponding during ascent, indicating relatively thick lithosphere during the early magmatic rifting. Contrasting modeling approaches show different melting conditions and temperatures, suggesting a thermo-mechanical boundary to ascent. These results have important implications for late-stage decompression melting prior to the onset of seafloor spreading.
Article
Geosciences, Multidisciplinary
Ameha A. Muluneh, Derek Keir, Giacomo Corti
Summary: Lower crustal earthquakes at plate boundaries and intraplate settings occur at depth where deformation is normally expected to occur in a ductile manner. Our models suggest that the depth distribution of earthquakes in the lower crust is best explained by strong mafic lower crustal rheology and hydrostatic fluid pore pressure conditions in areas away from the Main Ethiopian Rift beneath the NW plateau. In the central MER, the lower crust has no long-term strength and seismicity is likely induced by a combination of near-lithostatic pore fluid pressure and high strain rates due to fluid movement.
FRONTIERS IN EARTH SCIENCE
(2021)
Article
Geochemistry & Geophysics
Alessandro La Rosa, Carolina Pagli, Hua Wang, Cecile Doubre, Sylvie Leroy, Federico Sani, Giacomo Corti, Atalay Ayele, Derek Keir
Summary: In this study, the plate-boundary kinematics of the Afrera linkage zone in Northern Afar (Ethiopia) was investigated using InSAR data and seismicity, revealing deformation accommodated by active en-echelon faults with normal slip and left-lateral strike-slip component. The faults exhibit spatial variation in behavior, with some showing stick-slip mode and others exhibiting creep behavior, the latter being associated with magmatic activities and hydrothermal springs.
JOURNAL OF GEOPHYSICAL RESEARCH-SOLID EARTH
(2021)
Article
Geochemistry & Geophysics
Yoseph Muhabaw, Ameha Atnafu Muluneh, Kahsay Nugsse, Ermias Filfilu Gebru, Tesfaye Kidane
Summary: One-hundred-seventy oriented paleomagnetic core samples were collected from volcanic lava flows in the Gedemsa magmatic segment in the Main Ethiopian Rift. The study identified two components of remanent magnetization and confirmed the geomagnetic polarity of the region. The results indicate complex deformation in the Gedemsa magmatic segment due to segment opening. This study is important for understanding the deformation history of the region.
Article
Green & Sustainable Science & Technology
Sabrina Maria Rita Bonetto, Chiara Caselle, Domenico Antonio De Luca, Manuela Lasagna
Summary: This study analyzed the water resources and hydrochemical characteristics in the central Main Ethiopian Rift Valley, identifying issues with high fluoride content and recognizing two different aquifers. The data gathered aims to raise awareness among rural communities and local governments about water resource risks, and supports planning appropriate interventions to increase access to fresh water for sustainable human and rural local development.
Article
Geosciences, Multidisciplinary
Martina Raggiunti, Derek Keir, Carolina Pagli
Summary: In the Main Ethiopian Rift, researchers focused on the Fentale-Dofan magmatic segment to study the spatial distribution of hydrothermal alteration and fumarolic deposits, as well as their link with faults and active hydrothermal manifestations. They found that hydrothermal products were mainly concentrated near Fentale and the Dofan Volcanic Complex, with different associations with rock types and faults at each location. These associations are likely due to the relative ease of alteration of certain rock types and the presence of fractures allowing for localized fluid flow. The study suggests that the DVC shows a stronger structural influence compared to Fentale, with magma reservoirs beneath both locations serving as the heat source for hydrothermal circulation.
FRONTIERS IN EARTH SCIENCE
(2021)
Article
Geography, Physical
Jan Valenta, Krystof Verner, Karel Martinek, Tomas Hroch, David Burianek, Leta Alemayehu Megerssa, Jan Bohac, Muluken Kassa, Ferdawok Legesse, Meheret Yakob, Bisrat Kebede, Jiri Malek
Summary: Ground fissures, particularly in unconsolidated sediments of the Main Ethiopian Rift, are commonly caused by piping. The fissures begin with piping in linear underground voids, leading to ceiling collapse and the formation of deep fissures with vertical walls. The conditions for fissure formation include regional normal faults, extensional joints, and alternating lithological units with varying hydraulic permeability.
EARTH SURFACE PROCESSES AND LANDFORMS
(2021)
Article
Geosciences, Multidisciplinary
Folarin Kolawole, Max C. Firkins, Thuwaiba S. Al Wahaibi, Estella A. Atekwana, Michael J. Soreghan
Summary: This study examines the evolution of non-volcanic rift interaction zones along the western branch of the East African Rift System, showing different stages of RIZ evolution and characteristics of breaching faults. The findings offer insights into the geometries, structural, and morphological evolution of RIZs, providing predictions for sedimentation patterns in early-stage continental rift environments.
Article
Geochemistry & Geophysics
Martina Raggiunti, Derek Keir, Carolina Pagli, Aude Lavayssiere
Summary: The study found that earthquakes within the Main Ethiopian Rift are likely generated by fluid flow along faults, while earthquakes at the rift margin are caused by tectonic motion of the plates.
GEOCHEMISTRY GEOPHYSICS GEOSYSTEMS
(2023)
Article
Geosciences, Multidisciplinary
Catherine C. Walker, Maya K. Becker, Helen A. Fricker
Summary: Research shows that the propagation rates of rifts on the Amery Ice Shelf are related to iceberg calving events, with significant acceleration of the ice shelf front before calving. The high-resolution data from ICESat-2 contributes to studying the iceberg calving process.
GEOPHYSICAL RESEARCH LETTERS
(2021)
Article
Nutrition & Dietetics
Demmelash Mulualem, Dejene Hailu, Masresha Tessema, Susan J. Whiting
Summary: The study showed that supplementing calcium-containing Eggshell Powder significantly reduced fluoride absorption and fluorosis symptoms, providing evidence for mitigation of fluorosis.
Article
Engineering, Geological
Pu Wang, Jingye Li, Xiaohong Chen, Yi-an Cui, Enli Wang, Guoliang Yan
Summary: This study investigates the wave propagation through a rock system with the presence of fluids, refining the model of P-wave modulus by considering various factors. Fluid pressures are introduced to update the model, analyzing the effects of different factors on P-wave modulus.
INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ROCK MECHANICS AND MINING SCIENCES
(2021)
Article
Water Resources
Wondimu T. Hailesilassie, Naresssndra K. Goel, Tenalem Ayenew, Sirak Tekleab
Summary: The purpose of this study is to predict future changes in precipitation in the Central Ethiopian Main Rift, which is vulnerable to climate change. The Long Ashton Research Station Weather Generator (LARS-WG) model was used to project precipitation based on five global climate models under two different scenarios. The results showed that the mean rainfall is expected to increase in January and December, while a drop is anticipated in June and May. Moreover, summer precipitation is predicted to fall, while winter precipitation is expected to climb. Additionally, annual and spring precipitation forecasts are anticipated to decrease in most locations.
JOURNAL OF WATER AND CLIMATE CHANGE
(2022)
Review
Geosciences, Multidisciplinary
Giacomo Corti, Daniele Maestrelli, Federico Sani
Summary: This paper presents an overview of the influence exerted by pre-existing structures on continental rifting at different scales in the Main Ethiopian Rift. The study shows that at a large scale, rift localization is controlled by inherited lithospheric-scale heterogeneity, while at a smaller scale, inherited fabrics control the geometry of faults and the distribution of volcanic activity. These observations highlight the strong control exerted by pre-existing structures on continental rifting.
FRONTIERS IN EARTH SCIENCE
(2022)
Article
Geology
Alessandro Bragagni, Eleonora Braschi, Andrea Orlando, Luisa Guarnieri, Giacomo Corti, Simone Tommasini
Summary: The East African Rift System (EARS) is an active continental rift with extensive volcanic activity. This study investigates the contribution of different mantle domains to the generation of EARS magmas through space and time, using geochemical analysis of erupted magmas and mantle xenoliths. The research provides a comprehensive understanding of the common process driving magma genesis in the EARS.
ITALIAN JOURNAL OF GEOSCIENCES
(2023)
Article
Geology
Wubamlak Nigussie, Abera Alemu, Ameha A. Muluneh, Kevin Mickus, Yoseph Muhabaw
Summary: This study used gravity data to interpret the formation and nature of magmatic segmentation within the Aluto-Gedemsa area in the Main Ethiopian Rift. The results show that the Aluto and Gedemsa magmatic segments are distinct and not linked, contradicting surface tectonic mappings. The study also supports the existence of bilateral off-rift magmatic extension zones, indicating an immature stage of continental rifting in the central MER.
ITALIAN JOURNAL OF GEOSCIENCES
(2023)
Article
Geosciences, Multidisciplinary
Wubamlak Nigussie, Kevin Mickus, Derek Keir, Abera Alemu, Yoseph Muhabaw, Ameha A. Muluneh, Esubalew Yehualaw, Zelalem Demissie
Summary: In magma-rich continental rifts, extension is commonly localized as dike injection in discrete magmatic segments which appear from surface geology to mimic the along-axis segmentation of ocean ridges. The subsurface morphology of these zones of localized magma injection remains unclear, including their depth range and relationship with tectonic faulting. Using gravity data, the study of the Main Ethiopian Rift reveals discrete Bouguer gravity highs in the centers of right-stepping magmatic segments, suggesting the presence of mafic intrusions. The study also suggests strong along-axis variations in deformation mechanism, with magma injection accommodating extension at the segment centers and faulting dominating towards the segment ends. Rift margin volcanic zones are inferred near the rift flanks.
FRONTIERS IN EARTH SCIENCE
(2023)
Article
Geosciences, Multidisciplinary
Jose Pablo Sepulveda, Raffaello Cioni, Alvaro Aravena
Summary: This study characterizes the morphology of intermediate to silicic lava flows and investigates their relationship with thickness distribution, pre-surface slope, composition, and rheology. It is found that the pre-eruptive slope, effusion rate, and viscosity of the lava play important roles in determining the lava flow morphology. Four main types of lava flows are identified based on the analysis of 49 intermediate to silicic lava flows.
EARTH-SCIENCE REVIEWS
(2023)
Article
Peripheral Vascular Disease
Giulia Bertagna, Nicola Troisi, Lorenzo Torri, Francesco Canovaro, Francesca Tomei, Daniele Adami, Roberto Cioni, Orsola Perrone, Raffaella Berchiolli
Summary: This study compared the outcomes of two different endovascular techniques for the treatment of splenic artery aneurysms. The results showed that both packing and sandwich techniques had similar safety and efficacy in treating splenic artery aneurysms, with no statistically significant differences in terms of early mortality and morbidity.
ITALIAN JOURNAL OF VASCULAR AND ENDOVASCULAR SURGERY
(2023)
Article
Geosciences, Multidisciplinary
Birhan A. Kebede, Carolina Pagli, Freysteinn Sigmundsson, Derek Keir, Alessandro La Rosa, Snorri Guobrandsson
Summary: Using remote sensing and geophysical data, researchers found that Tulu Moye is an active volcanic complex with a geothermal field, resulting in surface uplift. They identified an underground intrusion as the cause of the uplift, which is attributed to magma influx.
JOURNAL OF VOLCANOLOGY AND GEOTHERMAL RESEARCH
(2023)
Article
Geosciences, Multidisciplinary
Alvaro Aravena, Andrea Bevilacqua, Augusto Neri, Pietro Gabellini, Dolors Ferres, Demetrio Escobar, Alessandro Aiuppa, Raffaello Cioni
Summary: This study presents a probabilistic hazard assessment for the San Salvador volcanic complex, focusing on eruption scenarios for tephra fallout and pyroclastic density currents. Numerical modeling reveals that thick tephra layers can be deposited in the metropolitan area of San Salvador during Plinian eruptions, but the sedimentation probability is reduced during the rainy season. Violent Strombolian eruptions have low probabilities of depositing significant tephra mass loads in San Salvador city. PDCs during large-scale Plinian eruptions can invade surrounding areas, including San Salvador city, while sub-Plinian eruption columns have low inundation probabilities for the city.
JOURNAL OF VOLCANOLOGY AND GEOTHERMAL RESEARCH
(2023)
Article
Geochemistry & Geophysics
Gareth L. Hurman, Derek Keir, Jonathan M. Bull, Lisa C. McNeill, Adam D. Booth, Ian D. Bastow
Summary: Magmatic intrusion and faulting accommodate crustal extension in magma-rich rifts and the Danakil Depression in Ethiopia is in a transitional stage between continental rifting and seafloor spreading. Quantitative analysis using remote sensing data reveals an increase in fault density, length, and connectivity away from magmatic segments. Kinematic and earthquake focal mechanism data show a transition from transtensional opening to oblique opening attributed to the step between sub-regions of the rift.
Article
Geosciences, Multidisciplinary
Birhanu Abera Kibret, Atalay Ayele, Derek Keir
Summary: By applying P-to-S receiver functions (RFs), we aimed to determine major melt reservoirs in the crust during magma-rich continental rifts. The results of this study suggest the presence of localized partial melt regions in the mid-crust beneath the NW plateau and the lower crust beneath the west of Afar, which play important roles in rift-related magmatic processes. The melt region in the NW plateau crust is potentially linked to the broad extension of the plateau or lateral migration of melt from the rift.
FRONTIERS IN EARTH SCIENCE
(2023)
Article
Geosciences, Multidisciplinary
Melanie Siegburg, Thomas M. Gernon, Derek Keir, Jonathan M. Bull, Rex N. Taylor, Emma J. Watts, Tim Greenfield, Ermias F. Gebru
Summary: Magmatic continental rifts often experience discrete rifting episodes, but it is unclear whether these episodes are clustered in time across adjacent rift segments. This study conducted new radiocarbon dating to determine the timing of the most recent rifting episode in the Boset magmatic segment of the northern Ethiopian rift, and combined it with historical dating of similar events in neighboring segments. The results suggest that each magmatic segment experienced separate rifting episodes, but these episodes were clustered in time.
FRONTIERS IN EARTH SCIENCE
(2023)
Article
Geochemistry & Geophysics
Omer Bodur, Oguz Hakan Gogus, Sascha Brune, Ebru Sengul Uluocak, Anne Glerum, Andreas Fichtner, Hasan Sozbilir
Summary: By using numerical modeling constrained by geophysical and geological data, we demonstrate that symmetric extension in the central Menderes Massif of western Anatolia is accommodated by lower crustal flow. Our geodynamic model explains the formation of opposite dipping Gediz and Buyuk Menderes detachment faults by footwall rotation, and the model predictions support seismic tomography data indicating updoming of lower crust beneath the exhumed massifs. Our research helps to explain the genetic relation between the exhumation of metamorphic core complexes and low-angle normal faulting in both Cordillera and Aegean orogenic regions, and has significant implications for crustal dynamics in extensional provinces.
EARTH AND PLANETARY SCIENCE LETTERS
(2023)
Article
Geography, Physical
Mario Federico Rolfo, Monica Bini, Francesco Di Mario, Angelica Ferracci, Biagio Giaccio, Hu Hsun-Ming, Ilaria Isola, Laura Sadori, Chuan-Chou Shen, Cristiano Vignola, Giovanni Zanchetta
Summary: Since its discovery in 1939, Grotta Guattari in central Italy has been one of the iconic sites of Italian prehistory. New excavations of the cave deposits have yielded a significant amount of mammal bones, including Neanderthal remains. The accumulation of these bones is believed to be the work of spotted hyenas during a period when human frequentation was sporadic or absent. The findings provide new insights into the sedimentary and paleoenvironmental history of the site, and make Grotta Guattari one of the rare sites in European prehistory with a large and precisely dated sample of Neanderthals.
QUATERNARY SCIENCE REVIEWS
(2023)
Article
Environmental Sciences
Marco Chimenti, Stefano Natali, Roberto Giannecchini, Giovanni Zanchetta, Ilaria Baneschi, Marco Doveri, Ilaria Isola, Leonardo Piccini
Summary: This article presents monthly monitoring data on cave and stream waters in the Renella Cave karst system from September 2020 to April 2022, and also discusses previous data on cave waters. The aim is to establish a dataset for future climatic and hydrological studies. Water samples were analyzed for major ions, d(18)O, and d(2)H. The cave sump water level, temperature, and electrical conductivity were measured and compared to precipitation data. Isotopic analysis showed that both stream and cave waters have a meteoric origin, and their variation is influenced by underground homogenization. The study provides a deeper understanding of the cave karst system and identifies a fragmented underground circulation network.
Article
Geosciences, Multidisciplinary
H. M. N. Wright, R. Cioni, K. V. Cashman, P. Mothes, M. Rosi
Summary: During the eruption sequence of Guagua Pichincha volcano in Ecuador from 1999-2001, rock samples provided information about magma storage, ascent, decompression, degassing, repressurization, and regassing prior to eruption. The melt inclusions revealed high water and carbon dioxide contents, while mineral crystals exhibited variations in their compositions. The seismic activity and surface tilt changes indicated a sudden evacuation of magma in the shallow conduit. These findings are significant for understanding volcanic eruptions.
BULLETIN OF VOLCANOLOGY
(2023)