Article
Geosciences, Multidisciplinary
Xinli Li, Suhua Fu, Yaxian Hu, Baoyuan Liu
Summary: This study aimed to investigate the effects of rock fragment coverage on soil erosion and how these effects were influenced by rock fragment sizes. The results showed that total runoff and sediment concentration increased with rock fragment size. However, when the rock fragment sizes were less than 12.0 cm, the total runoff and sediment concentration were lower compared to bare soil. On the other hand, when the rock fragment sizes were larger than 12.0 cm, they increased the total runoff and sediment concentration in the wet run. This study highlights the importance of considering rock fragment size when assessing the effects of rock fragment coverage on soil erosion.
Article
Geochemistry & Geophysics
P-A Duvillard, F. Magnin, A. Revil, A. Legay, L. Ravanel, F. Abdulsamad, A. Coperey
Summary: Knowledge of the thermal state of steep alpine rock faces is crucial for assessing geohazards related to permafrost degradation. This study uses a new petrophysical model with electrical conductivity and normalized chargeability data to infer permafrost distribution, finding that only the NW face of the rock ridge is frozen. By modeling bedrock temperature across the ridge and confirming permafrost presence, a low-cost approach to monitoring temperature distribution in Alpine rock walls is provided in response to climate change.
GEOPHYSICAL JOURNAL INTERNATIONAL
(2021)
Article
Forestry
Ludovic Martin, Herve Cochard, Stefan Mayr, Eric Badel
Summary: This study demonstrates that ERT is a reliable nondestructive tool for estimating the moisture content of heartwood in situ, and that wetwood is present in a large majority of silver fir trunks. ERT can be used to estimate the average moisture content of heartwood in standing trees, but seasonal variations and precise location of wetwood may not be accurately determined.
ANNALS OF FOREST SCIENCE
(2021)
Article
Soil Science
Long Huang, Weikai Bao, Hui Hu, Deborah Traselin Nkrumah, Fanglan Li
Summary: Soil water and temperature are vital for hydrological and heat cycling in terrestrial ecosystems, but the impact of rock fragment content on soil water content, temperature, and their relationship is poorly understood. In this study, a field experiment was conducted to investigate the effects of varying rock fragment content on soil water content and temperature from 2018 to 2022. The results showed that increasing rock fragment content significantly decreased soil water content, with a stronger effect in the wet season. Soil water content increased with increasing soil depths in conditions of 0% and 25% rock fragment content, but monotonically increased in soils with 50% and 75% rock fragment content. Additionally, the presence of rock fragment raised annual mean soil temperature, and the impact of rock fragment content on soil temperature varied with seasons and soil layers. Overall, these findings highlight the importance of rock fragment content in shaping spatiotemporal patterns of soil water content and temperature in stony regions, particularly during the wet period.
Article
Chemistry, Analytical
Jose A. Acosta, Maria Gabarron, Marcos Martinez-Segura, Silvia Martinez-Martinez, Angel Faz, Alejandro Perez-Pastor, Maria Dolores Gomez-Lopez, Raul Zornoza
Summary: Water scarcity in arid and semiarid regions has become a problem for agricultural systems, making the development of deficit irrigation strategies crucial. This study developed a model using electrical resistivity tomography (ERT) to predict water and soluble nutrient contents in soil profiles. The model was applied to different woody crops under different irrigation regimes, showing its efficiency in monitoring soil water evolution and facilitating land irrigation management.
Article
Engineering, Civil
Hiroyuki Nakayama, Yasumasa Yamasaki, Kengo Ohashi, Shinji Nakaya
Summary: This study in the Tabora Region of Tanzania utilizes a simple method to determine the pumping discharge of drilling wells using data from electrical resistivity tomography surveys and lengths of topographic lineaments. It demonstrates the effectiveness of surface hydro-geophysical surveys in exploring groundwater resources and predicts an increase in water supply in the region. Areas suitable for residential use are identified based on well yield potential, showing the potential for applying this method to other regions with similar conditions in Tanzania and neighboring countries.
JOURNAL OF HYDROLOGY
(2021)
Article
Geosciences, Multidisciplinary
Long Huang, Hui Hu, Weikai Bao, Bin Hu, Jian Liu, Fanglan Li
Summary: Soil nutrient contents and stoichiometric ratios are influenced by variable rock fragment contents (RFC) and plant species in rocky soils. Soil C, N, and P contents, as well as C:N, C:P, and N:P ratios, decrease with increasing RFC in all vegetation treatments. Soil nutrient stoichiometry is positively related to soil water content and soil capillary porosity, but negatively related to bulk density and soil non-capillary porosity. The results demonstrate the importance of soil structure, soil water content, and vegetation in shaping soil nutrient stoichiometry in rocky soils.
Article
Environmental Sciences
Miaomiao Yang, Qinke Yang, Keli Zhang, Chunmei Wang, Guowei Pang, Yuru Li
Summary: This study assessed the effects of rock fragments on soil erosion and sediment yield at a global scale. The results showed that rock fragments have a significant impact on soil erodibility. The presence of rock fragments increased soil erodibility, but in mountainous and desert areas, rock fragments reduced soil erodibility. The study also identified elevation and slope gradient as important factors influencing the effect of rock fragments on soil erosion.
INTERNATIONAL SOIL AND WATER CONSERVATION RESEARCH
(2023)
Article
Multidisciplinary Sciences
Nimi Ann Vincent, R. Shivashankar, K. N. Lokesh, Divya Nath
Summary: The shrinkage limit of soil occurs when the soil is fully saturated and further reduction in water content does not cause a reduction in volume. Electrical resistivity measurements can be used to predict the shrinkage limit of well compacted soils, showing a good agreement with standard shrinkage limit tests. This relationship is valid for contaminated soils as well.
ARABIAN JOURNAL FOR SCIENCE AND ENGINEERING
(2021)
Article
Geosciences, Multidisciplinary
Xiaoming Lai, Ya Liu, Liuyang Li, Qing Zhu, Kaihua Liao
Summary: The study found significant relationships between temperature, precipitation, elevation, and RFC globally. RFC decreased with increasing mean annual temperature when below 20 degrees C, and slightly increased when above 20 degrees C. Additionally, RFC decreased with increasing mean annual precipitation and increased with elevation.
Article
Geosciences, Multidisciplinary
Hocine Henine, Julien Tournebize, Cedric Chaumont, Vivien Dubois, Remi Clement
Summary: This study evaluates a new methodology for detecting subsurface drainage (SD) networks using time-lapse electrical resistivity tomography (ERT) monitoring and high-pressure air injection. Experimental results show that high-pressure air injection instantly modifies soil electrical resistivity around drains, creating visible contrasts on ERT images.
JOURNAL OF APPLIED GEOPHYSICS
(2021)
Article
Geochemistry & Geophysics
Habiba Lharti, Colette Sirieix, Joelle Riss, Cecile Verdet, Fabien Salmon, Delphine Lacanette
Summary: The goal of data classification is to organize them into relevant groups using algorithms. In this study, two clustering algorithms (Hierarchical Agglomerative Clustering and K-means) are applied to classify geophysical measurements performed around the Lascaux Cave. The objective is to determine the optimal number of classes that characterize the rock mass around the cave, and to compare the performance of the two clustering methods. The results show that while K-means might seem better based on certain indices, the HAC method provides more accurate results and is supported by existing geological knowledge.
GEOPHYSICAL JOURNAL INTERNATIONAL
(2023)
Article
Soil Science
Lucas de Castro Moreira da Silva, Devison Souza Peixoto, Raphael Passaglia Azevedo, Junior Cesar Avanzi, Moacir de Souza Dias Junior, Daniela Vanella, Simona Consoli, Salvador Francisco Acuna-Guzman, Emerson Borghi, Alvaro Vilela de Resende, Bruno Montoani Silva
Summary: This study used electrical resistivity tomography (ERT) to assess the spatial-temporal soil water content dynamics in grain production systems in the Brazilian Cerrado. The results showed that ERT was suitable for monitoring soil water content and inferring soil-plant processes. Intercropped brachiaria positively affected soil water dynamics, while MBSB-HI exhibited the highest water content in the rainy season, demonstrating the potential of ecological intensified cropping systems in overcoming severe dry spells.
Article
Engineering, Geological
Muhammad Hasan, Yanjun Shang, Peng Shao, Xuetao Yi, He Meng
Summary: Accurate evaluation of rock mass quality and faults/fractures is a major challenge in rock mechanics and rock engineering. This study introduces an empirical geophysical approach using electrical resistivity tomography (ERT) to assess rock mechanical parameters for foundation design. The approach reduces the need for drilling and provides more accurate evaluation of rock mass quality. The approach can be used in areas where it is difficult to obtain core samples.
ROCK MECHANICS AND ROCK ENGINEERING
(2022)
Article
Geosciences, Multidisciplinary
Hana Grison, Radek Klanica, Sarka Stejskalova, Jindrich Steffl
Summary: Geophysical prospecting methods are crucial for understanding the function of fortified settlements by revealing structures and objects connected with past settlements. Proper discrimination between geogenic and anthropogenically influenced soil features is challenging, requiring more detailed studies.
Article
Environmental Sciences
Antonio Montagnoli, Silvia Baronti, Danieli Alberto, Donato Chiatante, Gabriella Stefania Scippa, Mattia Terzaghi
Summary: The study found that the improvement of soil properties by biochar can promote early growth of grapevine roots, increase root numbers, and enhance canopy development. As the season changes, plants adjust their root architecture according to variations in soil water content.
SCIENCE OF THE TOTAL ENVIRONMENT
(2021)
Article
Agronomy
Giovanna Jona Lasinio, Alessio Pollice, Livia Pappalettere, Giovanni Vannacci, Sabrina Sarrocco
Summary: This study analyzed the nutritional competitive potential of different fungi and the behavior of natural competitors and biocontrol agents based on data collected by the Biolog PM system. The proposed protocol can be applied to various fungal phenotypical studies and provides important information for biocontrol strategies by comparing the nutritional patterns of single isolates with other fungi.
Article
Agronomy
Anita Maienza, Fabrizio Ungaro, Silvia Baronti, Ilaria Colzi, Laura Giagnoni, Cristina Gonnelli, Giancarlo Renella, Francesca Ugolini, Costanza Calzolari
Summary: Urban soils that have been de-sealed can rapidly restore their biological quality and fertility without the need for external topsoil application. Restoration of de-sealed soils can contribute to improving urban environmental quality by enhancing soil functions and related ecosystem services.
Article
Agronomy
Anna Iannucci, Mariana Amato
Summary: This study evaluated the variability in root traits of 8 chia genotypes at two early stages, finding that chia plants exhibit greater phenotypic variation in roots at the seedling stage, with Australia and G8 showing the most developed root systems. The results could be useful for breeding programs aiming to develop new chia cultivars with more vigorous seedlings.
GENETIC RESOURCES AND CROP EVOLUTION
(2021)
Article
Agronomy
Silvia Baronti, Elena Galassi, Francesca Ugolini, Franco Miglietta, Lorenzo Genesio, Francesco P. Vaccari, Pierino Cacciatori, Laura Gazza
Summary: This study compares four perennial wheat genotypes with an annual common wheat cultivar in terms of agronomic traits, root development, and ecophysiological parameters, revealing that perennial wheat performs better in some aspects while annual wheat excels in certain physiological characteristics. Discussions on the environmental benefits, optimal field management, and future breeding strategies of adopting perennial grains are also provided.
GENETIC RESOURCES AND CROP EVOLUTION
(2022)
Article
Plant Sciences
Rocco Bochicchio, Rosanna Labella, Antonella Vitti, Maria Nuzzaci, Giuseppina Logozzo, Mariana Amato
Summary: Early root traits and allometrics of wheat play a crucial role in competition and resource utilization. However, these traits are often overlooked in research, especially in ancient wheat varieties. This study investigated the root morphology, root/shoot relations, and the amount of rhizosheath in four wheat seedlings and found that inoculation with Trichoderma harzianum T-22 enhances rhizosheath formation and affects wheat varieties differently. These findings provide insights into the effects of Trichoderma inoculation on improving plant growth.
Article
Agronomy
Antonella Vitti, Vincenzo Bevilacqua, Giuseppina Logozzo, Rocco Bochicchio, Mariana Amato, Maria Nuzzaci
Summary: Seed coating with T-22 can improve seedling growth and have a biocontrol effect on F. culmorum. T-22 represses the growth of F. culmorum through competition for nutrients, mycoparasitism, and antibiosis.
Article
Chemistry, Analytical
Gessica Altieri, Angela Maffia, Vittoria Pastore, Mariana Amato, Giuseppe Celano
Summary: This study aims to define a rapid procedure to calculate geometric parameters of the canopy of hazelnut trees using UAV images and remote sensing technologies, providing scientific basis for hazelnut orchard management. By analyzing the NDVI and CHM values derived from the UAV images, the canopy area and height can be accurately calculated. Applying this technology to hazelnut orchards can improve resource use efficiency and crop quality.
Article
Plant Sciences
Roberta Rossi, Giovanni Bitella, Rocco Bochicchio, Rosanna Labella, Francesco Angerame, Marcella Urbano, Mariana Amato
Summary: In dual-purpose cereal systems, co-production of fodder and grain can increase farm profitability and reduce farming risks. This study compared the shoot and root growth in durum wheat under traditional and dual-purpose management in southern Italy. The results showed that clipping plants during the vegetative stage did not significantly affect forage biomass and grain yield, but it did reduce root density and shift root traits in certain cultivars. Evaluating the impact of dual-purpose management on crop growth is important for improving agricultural sustainability.
Article
Plant Sciences
Antonio G. Caporale, Mariana Amato, Luigi G. Duri, Rocco Bochicchio, Stefania De Pascale, Giuseppe Di Rauso Simeone, Mario Palladino, Antonio Pannico, Maria A. Rao, Youssef Rouphael, Paola Adamo
Summary: Space research is focusing on the development of bioregenerative life support systems (BLSS) to produce food crops based on in situ resource utilization (ISRU). This study tested different substrates mixed with horse/swine monogastric manure to evaluate their effects on plant growth. The results showed that substrates containing Mars simulant performed better than Lunar simulant in terms of agronomic performance and nutrient availability. The addition of monogastric manure improved plant biomass and nutrient uptake. The optimal mixture ratio of simulant and manure for plant growth was determined to be 70:30. This research provides valuable insights for developing sustainable BLSS for future space missions.
Article
Plant Sciences
Rocco Bochicchio, Rosanna Labella, Roberta Rossi, Michele Perniola, Mariana Amato
Summary: Ancient wheats, like the Italian durum wheat Saragolle Lucana, may possess traits beneficial for tolerance to climate change conditions. However, under water shortage, plants showed lower biomass, surface area, and occupation compared to well-watered conditions.
Article
Multidisciplinary Sciences
Joao Jose Ferreira Gomes, Antonio Ferreira, Afonso Alves, Beatriz Nogueira Sequeira
Summary: This study used logistic regression to analyze the risk of COVID-19 patients and found that age, comorbidity, healthcare unit score, gender, and healthcare unit occupancy were associated with COVID-19-related mortality.
Article
Plant Sciences
Roberta Rossi, Mariana Amato, Salvatore Claps
Summary: Under drought stress, Sulla plants showed reduced biomass, number of leaves, and root length compared to well-watered treatment. Centauro displayed more shoots, a trend for more leaves, and higher root length across irrigation levels. Drought stress affected condensed tannin content differently between Centauro and Bellante.
Article
Multidisciplinary Sciences
Eudora Ribeiro, Antonio Granado, Joao Gomes, Filipe Ramos
Summary: Many international studies have shown a relation between prominent and sensational suicide reporting and subsequent rises in suicide rates, known as the Werther effect, but this relation has not been investigated in Portugal. This study examined the increase in suicides in Portugal following four national mediatized suicides. The findings suggest that the Werther effect appears to occur in some cases of mediatized suicides in Portugal, emphasizing the importance of responsible suicide reporting in the media.
Article
Engineering, Environmental
Francesca Carella, Momy Seck, Lorenzo Degli Esposti, Hamet Diadiou, Anita Maienza, Silvia Baronti, Patrizio Vignaroli, Francesco Primo Vaccari, Michele Iafisco, Alessio Adamiano
Summary: The development of low-tech processes to convert fishery byproducts into calcium phosphate-based materials for fertilizers and biostimulants shows promising results in enhancing the adaptive capacity of food production systems in least developed countries.
JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL CHEMICAL ENGINEERING
(2021)