Microclimatic Conditions Research Articles

Impact of Urban Surfaces on Microclimatic Conditions and Thermal Comfort in Burdur, Türkiye

Rapid urbanization worldwide offers numerous benefits but also introduces challenges, particularly concerning urban climate comfort, which affects the physical and social well-being in cities. This study examined the microclimatic characteristics of the Burç neighborhood in the historical core of Burdur city, using ENVI-Met models with temperature, relative humidity, wind and PET data collected over a 33,665 m2 area at 06:00, 09:00, 12:00, 15:00, 18:00 and 21:00 on 15 August 2023. The analysis revealed that thermal comfort decreases significantly from 09:00 onwards, especially on hard surfaces like asphalt, concrete and parquet, which lack vegetation and intensify heat retention. By contrast, green areas were found to enhance bioclimatic comfort by reducing perceived temperatures by up to 20% in shaded and vegetated zones. Based on these findings, it is recommended that urban areas reduce heat-absorbing materials, such as asphalt and concrete and prioritize green spaces in landscape planning to improve thermal comfort and create more sustainable urban environments.

Interpopulation and seasonal variations in habitat and microhabitat use of Vipera ammodytes (Linnaeus, 1758)

Despite the abundant data on habitat use of Vipera ammodytes, most studies are purely descriptive, merely listing the habitats in which the species is most often found. More complete studies evaluating the habitat preference of the species are lacking. The intraspecific variation (i.e., interpopulation or seasonal) in habitat and microhabitat utilization of the species also remains a poorly studied topic. In the current study, we assessed the general patterns of habitat and microhabitat use of V. ammodytes and their interpopulation and seasonal variations, based on habitat/microhabitat availability. To achieve that, we studied five different populations along a latitudinal gradient in western Bulgaria. In all of the studied areas, V. ammodytes showed a clear preference for various stony and rocky habitats and microhabitats, overgrown with herbaceous and shrub vegetation, while it avoided bare habitats, dark deciduous forests as well as cultivated agricultural lands. There were clear interpopulation and seasonal variations in habitat and microhabitat preference and spatial niche utilization. Our results suggest that habitat and microhabitat use of V. ammodytes depends on a combination of many factors such as season, locally specific characteristics like habitat structure and availability, population dynamics, food availability, physical and microclimatic conditions, and possibly on the extent of the interspecific competition

TinyML-powered ensemble modeling for greenhouse climate control using XGBoost and LightGBM

The cultivation of crops in smart greenhouses is experiencing a profound transformation, fueled by cutting-edge technological advancements in environmental control that significantly improve efficiency, sustainability, and productivity. Nonetheless, the intricate and ever-changing dynamics of microclimate conditions pose challenges in customizing environments to satisfy the specific requirements of various plants. Accurate prediction of these microclimate parameters emerges as a promising solution to this challenge. This study explores the integration of machine learning and TinyML platforms to create a groundbreaking ensemble approach for effectively forecasting microclimate conditions. We obtained exceptional prediction accuracy for temperature (R2 = 0.9972) and humidity (R2 = 0.9976) using a stacking ensemble of XGBoost and LightGBM models. We used Optuna for accurate hyperparameter optimization and thoroughly examined the best possible input variable combinations as part of our meticulous model construction approach. The results of this study demonstrate the revolutionary potential of machine learning in greenhouse climate management, opening the door for data-driven, intelligent agricultural systems that maximize crop yields while reducing energy consumption.

Weed Classification and Crop Health Monitoring in Microclimatic Conditions Using Thermal Image Analysis and Deep Learning Algorithms

Weed Classification and Crop Health Monitoring in Microclimatic Conditions Using Thermal Image Analysis and Deep Learning Algorithms

Monitoring of thermal conditions and snow dynamics at periglacial block accumulations in a low mountain range in central Germany

AbstractThe Rhoen Mountains, a relict periglacial landscape in central Germany, feature a wide range of openwork block accumulations. Although located in a temperate climate, those have characteristics comparable with cold regions of higher altitude or latitude such as arctic‐alpine species, longer lasting snow patches or the discussed existence of summer or even year‐round ice lenses in one of the largest of these landforms in the Central German Uplands. This study aims for a characterization of the microclimatic conditions of two neighbouring block accumulations. Therefore, temperatures were registered by data loggers along profiles, and snow dynamics were monitored using time‐lapse cameras and terrestrial laser scans. These observations are finally compared with geophysical measurements to address the question of potential isolated low‐altitude permafrost occurrences. Mean ground surface temperatures show an inverse thermal gradient along the Schafstein block accumulation. Furrows were identified as the cold spots in winter, whereas snow melt holes are signs of a chimney effect. In summer, cold air flows out at ventilation holes along the front causing temperatures of up to 25°C below air temperatures, although no clear signs of permafrost were detected. Temperature correlations reveal periods indicative of a recurring internal summer air circulation. Coarse blocky substrate also favours ground cooling of the smaller Mathesberg block accumulation compared with its surroundings. Winter temperatures are influenced by a persistent snowbank forming due to drifting and blowing snow at the leeward edge of a plateau as little amounts of snow are sufficient to be redistributed by westerlies. The prolonged melt of the snowbank might have had or still has a local hydrological and geomorphological impact. Uncertainties remain regarding the behaviour of the microclimate of block accumulations in a warming climate. Being ‘cold spots’ of high ecological value further investigations are suggested.

To the top or into the dark? Relationships between elevational and canopy cover distribution shifts in mountain forests

Numerous studies have reported that observed species shifts in mountain areas lag behind expectations under current warming trends, however, the mechanisms remain poorly understood. One important mechanism might be microclimatic heterogeneity causing migration of species to cooler conditions under closed forest canopies, but evidence is scarce. We here compared the distributions of 710 species (11 taxonomic groups including fungi, plants, and animals) along an elevation gradient (287–1419 m a.s.l.) in a temperate low mountain range between 2006–2008 and 2016–2017 to address this open question. We characterized each species' distribution (peak and breadth) based on their abundance along two environmental gradients: elevation and canopy cover. We then analysed changes in species' distribution peaks, asking whether shifts in canopy distribution and initial distribution characteristics explain variation in elevational distribution shifts. Across all taxa, the mean shift in elevational distribution peak was + 35.3 m (i.e. upslope). Species' baseline distribution peaks were strong predictors of elevational distribution shifts with stronger upslope shifts in low‐elevation and open‐forest species. Even though we observed considerable variation in the responses among species, canopy distribution shifts had a significant negative effect on elevational distribution shifts overall and in six taxonomic groups. We suggest that this is related to cooler microclimatic conditions under closed compared to open forest canopies. Shifts to closed‐canopy forests may thus partly compensate for elevational distribution shifts, highlighting the conservation value of heterogeneous landscapes featuring microclimatic refugia. Yet, it is likely that other mechanisms, such as habitat limitation, are also at play. Future studies need to quantify the potential of microclimatic refugia under accelerating forest dynamics, considering the interplay of canopy cover and other factors driving microclimate, and to illuminate the complex climate change response mechanisms among species and taxonomic groups.

Smart technology-based microclimate control system for greenhouse

This study proposes an agricultural management system designed to enhance productivity by leveraging artificial intelligence and Internet of Things (IoT) technologies. It addresses the complex microclimate conditions within greenhouses by integrating microcontrollers and sensors to monitor parameters such as temperature, humidity, and soil moisture, enabling precise environmental management. Web and mobile applications provide interactive interfaces, allowing users to monitor real-time factors influencing the greenhouse environment. The system can execute actions like activating fans or irrigation pumps based on user inputs or predefined settings. In addition to improving yields, the system aims to create a dataset that can be used for assessing the effectiveness of future machine learning models. Important considerations include data privacy, training farmers to effectively use the technology, and integrating the system with traditional farming practices, thereby enhancing sustainability. Overall, this study aspires to continuously improve agricultural practices by combining modern technology with traditional knowledge, ultimately aiming for a more efficient and sustainable agricultural landscape.

Evaluation of the Effects of Rainwater Infiltration on Slope Instability Mechanisms

Mass movements can be caused by factors from different categories, such as geological factors and climate change. From a geological point of view, the soil profile and the geotechnical properties of the materials are crucial in influencing slope instability. From a climate change perspective, rainfall intensity is one of the main triggers of mass movements. Studies related to rainfall infiltration focus on saturated slope zones; therefore, areas of slope stability with infiltration in the unsaturated zone present large gaps. The Brazilian government environmental diagnostics company, the Mineral Resources Research Company (CPRM), identified the municipality of Areia/PB as a danger zone. The region has landslides that occur mostly during the rainy season. Such events lead to the presumption that rainwater infiltration is responsible for the failure of the municipality’s slopes. Thus, the studies proposed in this research aim to determine the influence of precipitation on the stability of the slopes present in the region. The results show that antecedent precipitation has a greater influence on stability, indicating that daily precipitation alone cannot be used as a determinant for landslides. It was concluded that the role of precipitation in slope stability will vary for different locations, with varying surface conditions, variable tropical rainfall, or different microclimatic conditions.

Greening‐Induced Biophysical Impacts Lead to Earlier Spring and Autumn Phenology in Temperate and Boreal Forests

AbstractTree phenology, the timing of periodic biological events in trees, is highly sensitive to climate change. Previous studies have indicated that forest greening can impact the local climate by modifying the seasonal surface energy budget. However, the understanding of tree phenological responses to forest greening at large spatial scales remains limited. Utilizing satellite‐derived phenological and leaf area index data spanning from 2001 to 2021, herein we show that forest greening led to earlier spring and autumn phenology in both temperate and boreal forests. Our findings demonstrated that forest greening during winter and spring contributed to a reduction in surface albedo, resulting in biophysical warming and consequently advancing spring leaf phenology. Conversely, forest greening in summer and autumn induced biophysical cooling through increased evapotranspiration, leading to an earlier onset of autumn leaf phenology. Our findings highlight the significant impact of forest greening‐induced local seasonal climate changes on shaping tree phenology in temperate and boreal forests. It is crucial to consider these greening‐induced alterations in microclimate conditions when modeling changes in tree phenology under future climate warming scenarios.

Risk factors for antimicrobial usage and diseases in Dutch veal calf farms: a cross-sectional study

Antimicrobial use (AMU) is the main driver of antimicrobial resistance (AMR). In the Netherlands, the veal calf sector was among the largest consumers of antimicrobials in Defined Daily Doses Animal (DDDA) for the year of 2022. As preventive use in Dutch livestock farms is forbidden since 2011, most AMU is due to the herd health status which is affected by the farm environment in which the conditions for diseases to spread are created. The aim of this study was to determine which disease etiologies for group treatments are associated with AMU in rosé starter veal calves, and which modifiable technical risk factors on farm are associated with those diseases and with total AMU. Cross-sectional data were collected from 36 Dutch rosé starter veal calf farms in the Netherlands in 2021 using a digital survey. Linear regression analysis showed that the main indications for AMU were respiratory infections, for which mainly tetracyclines and macrolides were used. Partial least squares regression analysis (PLS) revealed 13 on-farm practices associated with the number of group treatments for respiratory diseases and 19 with total AMU. Overlapping variables in both PLS models were related to regrouping of calves, micro-climate conditions, water access and weaning strategies. Overall, these features focused on improving animal welfare and nutrition during production and enhancing a farm’s internal and external biosecurity. This study identified opportunities for reducing AMU in rosé starter veal calf farms, which thereby could contribute to limiting AMR emergence and spread.

Geographical and Environmental Influences on Boswellia elongata Balf.f. Volatiles: An In Situ Study on Socotra Island

Frankincense, an esteemed oleo-gum resin derived from Boswellia species (Burseraceae), has been prized by humans for its aromatic, medicinal, and spiritual properties across millennia. Environmental factors play a crucial role in shaping the volatile compound composition of this resin, thereby influencing its quality. In this investigation, we analyzed frankincense sourced from Boswellia elongata Balf.f. at six distinct locations on Socotra Island. Employing thermal desorption-gas chromatography coupled with mass spectrometry (TD-GC/MS), we identified 92 terpenoid compounds, spanning monoterpenes, sesquiterpenes, and diterpenes. Predominant among these volatile organic compounds (VOCs) were α-pinene, γ-terpinene, o-cymene, and (E)-β-farnesene. Multivariate analyses revealed subtle differences in VOC composition, particularly pronounced at the Ma'aleh site, the most geographically isolated research locality. The flowers in this population also displayed distinct red-pink coloration compared to other populations. Integration of VOC data with environmental variables revealed correlations with temperature, elevation, and proximity to the sea, with specific compounds exhibiting associations with distinct environmental contexts. Our findings underscore the impact of microclimatic and abiotic conditions on the volatile profile of individual trees. Moreover, this study offers comprehensive insights into the VOC profile of B. elongata resin and its interplay with environmental factors, thereby suggesting avenues for the cultivation of new varieties or hybridization within the species.

Enhancing soil carbon in solar farms through active land management: a systematic review of the available evidence

Abstract Ground-mounted solar farms are becoming common features of agricultural landscapes worldwide in the move to meet internationally agreed Net Zero targets. In addition to offering low-carbon energy, solar farms in temperate environments can be purposely managed as grasslands that enhance soil carbon uptake to maximise their climate benefits and improve soil health. However, there is little evidence to date on the ecosystem effects of land use change for solar farms, including their impact on soil carbon storage and sequestration potential through land management practices. We review the latest evidence on the associations between grassland management options commonly adopted by solar farms in temperate regions (plant diversity manipulation, mowing, grazing, and nutrient addition) and soil carbon to identify appropriate land management practices that can enhance soil carbon within solar farms managed as grasslands. Soil carbon response to land management intervention is highly variable and context-dependent, but those most likely to enhance soil carbon accrual include organic nutrient addition (e.g., cattle slurry), low-to-moderate intensity sheep grazing, and the planting of legume and plant indicator species. Plant removal and long-term (years to decades) mineral fertilisation are the most likely to result in soil carbon loss over time. These results can inform policy and industry best practice to increase ecosystem service provision within solar farms and help them deliver net environmental benefits beyond low-carbon energy. Regular monitoring and data collection (preferably using standardised methods) will be needed to ensure soil carbon gains from land management practices, especially given the microclimatic and management conditions found within solar farms.

Effects of global change drivers on the expression of pathogenicity and stress genes in dryland soil fungi.

The effects of global climate change on dryland fungi and consequences to our society have been understudied despite evidence showing that pathogenic fungi increase in abundance under global climate change. Moreover, there is a growing concern that global climate change will contribute to the emergence of new fungal pathogens. Yet, we do not understand what mechanisms might be driving this increase in virulence and the onset of pathogenicity. In this study, we investigate how fungi respond to global change drivers, physical disturbance, and drought, in a dryland ecosystem in terms of pathogenicity and stress. We find that indeed, under global change drivers, there is an increase in the transcription and expression of genes associated to pathogenicity and stress, but that microclimatic conditions matter. Our study shows the importance of investigating dryland fungi exposed to global climate change and impacts on our society, which may include threats to public health and food security.

Comparative analysis of airborne fungal spore distribution in urban and rural environments of Slovakia.

Monitoring airborne fungal spores is crucial for public health and plant production since they belong to important aeroallergens and phytopathogens. Due to different land use, their concentration can differ significantly between urban and rural areas. We monitored their spectrum and quantity on two geographically close sites with a different degree of urbanisation: Bratislava City and Kaplna Village in Slovakia, located 38km apart. We recorded the spectrum of airborne fungal spores over a year and confirmed the microscopic results by amplicon-based metagenomic analysis. The main spore season of the most frequent genera lasted over a week longer in Kaplna, but its intensity was approximately two-fold higher in Bratislava. This can be possibly connected to the microclimatic conditions of the urban area (especially wind speed and heat island effect) and the lesser use of fungicides. Cladosporium was the dominant genus on both sites, influencing the intensity most significantly. Through statistical analysis of the influence of meteorological parameters on airborne fungal spore levels, we identified a significant relationship with temperature, while the impact of other parameters varied depending on the spore type and release mechanism. Our results show the differences in airborne fungal spore levels between urban and rural areas and highlight the necessity for more monitoring stations in various environments.

MODELING OF THE AUTOMATED COMPLEX COMPONENTS FOR SEGREGATED RESIDUES GATHERING OF OPERATIONAL PRINTING

Abstract. An overview of the printing industry primary measures regarding the balanced implementation of the sustainable development goals at the regional level was carried out. Based on the latest works analysis in the direction of the enlargement of branch waste management systems, the solutions insufficiency for the limited financial situations of small businesses is revealed, and the relevance of finding optimal means of gathering segregated waste and their temporary storage at the enterprise is shown. The criteria have been established and the stratification of typical categories of orders the operational printing has been carried out according to print run and rest volume. The requirements for the collection and storage of waste raw materials and consumables have been clarified and expanded, in particular regarding the provision of microclimatic conditions. In order to model effective business processes of pro­duction residues management, the construction of a universal complex for target cumulative of pre-segregated substrate scraps in the form of a smart container with a weighing terminal is substantiated. For flexible allocation of corporate flows, the hardware part is implemented from measuring, supervisory and communication blocks depending on their purpose in the automated microprocessor platform. The researched printing waste types the built algorithm of the life cycle of their cumulating made it possible to draw up an architectural diagram of segregator system and determine the main components hierarchy of printing waste receptacle when order manufacturing. As a result, analytical models were built and the modeling of automated complex of segregated residues gathering in operational printing was carried out based on created microcontroller system for monitoring of mass and climate control of cumulated surpluses to maintenance proper conditions their subsequent recycling.

Comparative Analysis of Some Morpho-cultural Characters of Venturia inaequalis (Apple Scab Pathogen) under Kashmir Conditions

Apple (Malus × domestica Borkh.) represents one of the most widely cultivated and economically important temperate fruit crops in the world. However, its cultivation faces significant challenges due to various fungal pathogens, particularly apple scab inflicted by Venturia inaequalis, which has a profound impact on the yield and quality of apple, resulting in substantial economic loss. The pervasive nature of V. inaequalis and its ability to damage crops poses a serious threat to sustainable apple production. In this study, the morpho-cultural characteristics of V. inaequalis were systematically analyzed and compared between the Shopian and Baramullah districts of the Kashmir Valley. Ten isolates from each district were grown on Malt Extract Agar (MEA) and Potato Dextrose Agar (PDA) for comparative analysis. The colonies were characterized by a compact hue ranging from greyish-green to blackish and exhibited a densely velvety texture. Mycelial growth was predominantly aerial, with some isolates displaying partial irregularity in colony margins, while others exhibited greater uniformity. The mean colony radii for potato dextrose agar and malt extract agar media was measured as 23.01 mm and 28.50 mm for the Shopian district, and 28.09 mm and 33.33 mm for the Baramullah district, respectively. The mean conidial spore density was recorded at 27.87 spores/cm² for the Baramullah district and 34.67 spores/cm² for the district Shopian, respectively. This variation could be attributed to several factors, including genetic diversity within the pathogen populations, differences in altitude, climate, and other environmental factors, the selection pressure exerted by fungicide applications, the emergence of novel pathogen races, and phenotypic plasticity driven by the differing agricultural practices and microclimatic conditions in the respective regions.

Effect of Land Configuration and Vermicompost on Hardening Status of Gaillardia pulchella under Micro-climate Conditions

Gaillardia (Gaillardia pulchella Foug), commonly known as the blanket flower, is a herbaceous perennial renowned for its vibrant, daisy-like flowers. This paper provides a thorough examination of G. pulchella, encompassing its botanical characteristics, hardening configuration, and ecological significance. The present study investigates the impact of land configuration and vermicompost application on the growth metrics of Gaillardia pulchella, and discuss how different configurations affect microclimate conditions and plant acclimatization. By evaluating different land configurations and vermicompost treatments, this research aims to optimize cultivation practices for enhancing the plant’s growth performance, floral quality, and overall yield. The findings provide insights into sustainable agricultural practices for improving the productivity and aesthetic value of G. pulchella. The present results suggest that the flat, ridge and furrow and raised bed configuration, particularly with 75% vermicompost with (33.53, 34.44 and 42.70) is optimal for cultivating Gaillardia flowers. However, minimum plant height was observed under the control plot (24.56, 17.77 and 31.72) cm for all three bed types. The maximum number of leaves count treatment were maximum (83.40, 81.46 and 99.26) with 50% vermicompost under flat, ridge and furrow and raised bed configuration. Number of new shoots per plant at hardening was found maximum (8.66, 9.33 and 9.23) under 50% vermicompost. Moreover, the survival percentage (%) were also found maximum (83.40, 81.46 and 99.26) under 50% vermicompost. It may be concluded that by assessing different land configurations and vermicompost treatments which influences the hardening process characterized by plant acclimatization to environmental stress which ultimate the research aims to enhance the resilience and establishment of G. pulchella in controlled environments.

Caves’ environmental stability shaping subterranean biodiversity in the neotropics

Caves, once thought to be isolated ecosystems", are now understood to have intricate connections with surface environments, particularly evident at their entrances. These connections can significantly affect the microclimate within caves, leading to varying degrees of environmental stability. Our research explores the impact of microclimate conditions, specifically related to cave environmental stability, on biodiversity changes. We surveyed subterranean invertebrates during two different seasonal periods in 17 limestone caves in three karst regions in southeastern Brazil. Our analysis aimed to understand how environmental stability influences the overall richness of cave invertebrates and troglobitic species richness (restricted to subterranean habitats). We hypothesized that more stable caves would experience less fluctuation in relative species richness and lower turnover between seasons. Additionally, we anticipated that caves with greater environmental stability would harbor a higher richness of cave-restricted species in the function of their length. Our findings support these hypotheses, revealing a significant positive correlation between cave environmental stability and species richness. Caves with higher environmental stability demonstrated lower species turnover rates between seasons, indicating enhanced community stability. While environmental stability significantly affected species richness, its influence on cave-restricted species was comparatively less pronounced. This suggests a complex interplay of factors shaping the unique fauna of caves. Nonetheless, the implications of climate change underscore the importance of preserving the environmental stability of these ecosystems. Using environmental stability as a guide can help protect cave biodiversity from the adverse effects of climate change, contributing to broader conservation efforts for these unique habitats.

Using simulated human comfort matrix to measure urban campus gender-based thermal performances

The study proposes incorporating human bodily comfort performance through a simulation method to assess the impact of urban microclimate conditions in an urban campus area. A human comfort performance matrix is used based on PET value and gender’s thermal stress conditions. The investigation serves as a way to evaluate open spaces’ climatic performance quantitatively through energy simulation. The method shows a way to measure urban comfort regarding gender perspectives early in the urban decision-making process. The findings of this research have practical implications for urban decision-makers to use robust simulation tools to optimize open space configurations based on gender’s thermal performances.

Climate-induced risk assessment of the quarantine room in a University Library

Microclimate conditions in conservation spaces such as museums, galleries, storages, archives, and libraries significantly impact the preservation of cultural materials, potentially leading to permanent damage. This study focuses on quarantine rooms, essential for isolating and inspecting incoming collections for infestations or contamination. Despite their importance, systematic microclimate investigations in such spaces have not been conducted until now. In this research, temperature and relative humidity monitoring has been conducted over the past 3 years (i.e., 2021-2022-2023) within the quarantine room of the Norwegian University of Science and Technology (NTNU) University Library (located within the DORA I concrete bunker, Trondheim, Norway). Data analysis revealed stable indoor conditions due to the buffering capacity of the massive building envelope together with climate control system. Specific metrics for the estimation of climate-induced chemical and biological risks on vulnerable artifacts were applied to compute the percentage of time for which thermohygrometric conditions could favour cellulose hydrolysis and biodeteriogens proliferation on a yearly basis. In this way, the study provided a decision-making tool useful to evaluate the best time (in terms of safest temperature and relative humidity conditions) when to introduce incoming collections into the quarantine room, depending on the material they are made of and on the timeframe selected for their isolation.