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  • HE Xuke, SONG Yougui, LI Yue, XU Jianhong, WANG Qingliang
    Online available: 2025-10-24
    Abstract:The Mid-Brunhes Event (MBE, ~430 ka) marks a pronounced amplification of global glacialinterglacial climate amplitude and a fundamental reorganization of the Earth system. Palaeoclimatic proxies from the Chinese Loess Plateau indicate that Marine Isotope Stage (MIS) 13a, immediately preceding the MBE, was the warmest and wettest interglacial of the Middle–Late Quaternary in East Asia, whereas global marine and other terrestrial archives consistently identify the post-MBE MIS 11c as the humid and thermally optimal interglacial worldwide. To investigate the variability of the East Asian monsoon climate and the response of fluvial-lacustrine sedimentary sequences to East Asian monsoon climate change across the event, we analyzed the mechanisms governing down-core variations in volumetric magnetic susceptibility (κ, 10-5 SI) preserved in the lacustrinefluvial-aeolian succession preserved of borehole 23GL from the Weihe Basin over the past 1.18 Ma. By integrating previously published paleoclimate proxies from the loess-paleosol sequence of the Chinese Loess Plateau, we investigated variations in East Asian summer monsoon (EASM) precipitation as recorded by κ during MIS 12~10 and analyzed their orbital periodicities. Results show that the low κ in the shallow-lake setting is related to (i) the low input of coarse debris flux and (ii) possible reductive dissolution of ferrimagnetic minerals during early diagenesis. In the littoral settings, the κ values are systematically higher; exceptional κ peaks coincide with lake-level fall that shifted the depositional site closer to the paleo-shoreline, thereby increasing the flux of ferrimagnetic coarse detritus. In fluvial settings, high-amplitude κ variability is primarily controlled by unstable sedimentary environments and variable oxidation-reduction conditions associated with intermittent subaerial exposure. Within the overlying aeolian sequence, κ clearly defines two intervals: (i) a low- κ interval (~30~12 ka) correlative with the MIS 2 loess sub-layer L1L1, and (ii) a high-κ paleosol layer S0 (<12 ka) formed during the Holocene. Spectral analysis of the κ series for the 500~320 ka window reveals a statistically significant precession cycle (~20 ka), demonstrating that EASM precipitation is paced by precession-dominated boreal summer insolation. During MIS 12, two pronounced precipitation minima occurred at ~460 ka and ~451 ka across East Asia—expressed in the core as 30- to 50-cm-thick sand beds that coincide with high κ and meangrain-size values. The transition from shallow-lake to littoral-lake and finally to fluvial settings across the MBE is attributed to the combined effects of (i) the reduced EASM precipitation from late MIS 12 to MIS 9, (ii) the longer glacial stages after the MBE, and (iii) the enhanced evaporation during the extended MIS 11c interglacial.
  • WANG Huaihai, SONG Zhaobin, QIAO Jingjuan, ZHANG Xiaoxue, WANG Zhengjiaoyi, HAO Fangwei, ZUO Xiaoan
    Online available: 2025-10-24
    Abstract:Plant community stability is the central ecological issue that underpins the structural integrity, functional continuity, and service sustainability of steppe ecosystems. Its influencing mechanisms have become a frontier focus in ecological and botanical research amid accelerating global climate change and intensifying anthropogenic activities. Building upon previous research, this review synthesizes current understanding of the theoretical connotation and characterization parameters of stability, the diversity-stability relationship, and the influencing mechanisms of plant community stability in steppe ecosystems. It further identifies critical knowledge gaps and provides an outlook on potential research priorities and development directions. Studies have shown that under the impacts of climate change and anthropogenic activities, the stability of plant communities in steppe ecosystems is collectively regulated by multiple biotic mechanisms—such as overyielding effects (via selection and complementarity), insurance effects, asynchrony, compensation effects, portfolio effects, and statistical averaging effects—along with abiotic factors such as soil nutrient availability. These mechanisms exhibit distinct ecosystem type specificity and significant spatio-temporal scale dependence. Future research needs to establish a systematic paradigm of “multiple disturbance factors-multiple regulatory processes-multiple spatio-temporal scales and organizational dimensions” to further unravel the intrinsic linkages between the structure, function, and stability of steppe ecosystems under global change, aiming to provide a reference for the sustainable development and adaptive management practices of steppe ecosystems.
  • RAN Xiangbin, ZHONG Xiaosong, WANG Hao, ZHU Zhuoyi
    Online available: 2025-10-24
    Abstract:The Chinese continental shelf, as a region heavily influenced by human activities, has experienced significant ecological and environmental changes. Studying this area is of great scientific and practical importance for advancing oceanographic knowledge and promoting research on marine environmental protection and resource utilization. In recent years, intensified human activities have caused notable alterations in the water environment, with Harmful Algal Blooms (HABs) showing new characteristics and shifts in dominant species. This paper provides a systematic review of research on water environmental changes and HABs occurrences in the Chinese continental shelf, offering a comprehensive analysis of major ecological and environmental challenges and outlining prospects for future research. The findings indicate that the marine ecological environment in this region is increasingly influenced by phosphorus limitation and the roles of organic nitrogen and phosphorus, accompanied by a shift in dominant HABs species from diatoms to dinoflagellates, and, in some areas, the simultaneous occurrence of HABs and green tides. These changes are driven by both ongoing alterations in terrestrial inputs and intrinsic self-regulatory mechanisms within the marine ecosystem, reflecting the cumulative effects of long-term environmental changes. Notably, there is a significant time lag between reductions in terrestrial pollution and decreases in HABs frequency, complicating the evaluation of management effectiveness and challenging the scientific determination of ecological risk thresholds or tipping points. Despite considerable progress in understanding water environmental evolution and HABs risks in China, significant challenges remain, including insufficient long-term and systematic observational data, the need to expand research scope, and incomplete knowledge of land-sea interaction mechanisms. Future research should focus on elucidating land-sea coupling processes, enhancing marine environmental monitoring networks, improving data processing and technological innovation, and clarifying nitrogen and phosphorus management thresholds while developing integrated strategies encompassing monitoring, tracing, calculation, and management. These efforts are crucial for advancing marine environmental research in the Chinese continental shelf.
  • ZHANG Rong, SONG Le, CAO Wengeng, MA Cuiyan, ZHANG Juanjuan, FU Shiqian, REN Yu, LU Chongsheng
    Online available: 2025-10-20
    Abstract: Chinese Maifanite, a natural mineral from Naiman Banner, Tongliao City, Inner Mongolia Autonomous Region, has potential applications in water purification, environmental remediation, healthcare, and agricultural improvement. Weathering processes alter the physicochemical properties of Maifanite, thereby influencing its heavy metal adsorption performance. This research systematically investigated Maifanite samples collected from different depths in the southern mountainous mining area of Naiman Banner, conducted comprehensive analyses including weathering degree assessment, heavy metal adsorption experiments, and prevention and control mechanism studies combining physicochemical characterization. The research reveals that Naiman Banner Maifanite primarily undergoes physical weathering. Based on macroscopic characteristics, Chemical Index of Alteration CIA, and weathering coefficient Kf , deep-layer samples were identified as slightly weathered, while surface samples exhibited moderate to strong weathering. Weathering increased the specific surface area of Maifanite by 66.81%, reduced pores smaller than 3.6 nm, and increased pores between 3.6~4.0 nm from 12.36% to 40.05%. Additionally, weathering caused the destruction of quartz and plagioclase crystals, leaching of alkaline elements (Na, Mg, Si, K, Ca). The zero potential point shifted markedly from 7.09 to below 2. Notably, deep-layer Maifanite demonstrated preferential adsorption toward anionic chromium (Cr) -a characteristic groundwater contaminant-with a maximum theoretical adsorption capacity of 0.90 mg/g. Conversely, surface-weathered Maifanite exhibited enhanced adsorption capacity for cationic cadmium (Cd) -a typical soil pollutant-reaching 5.57 mg/g. The adsorption process, comprising three distinct stages (surface diffusion, mesopore diffusion, and micropore diffusion), achieved equilibrium within 24 hours. Multilayer heavy metal adsorption mechanisms were predominantly governed by electrostatic interactions with additional contributions from surface hydroxyl complexation. In conclusion, natural geological weathering induces significant physicochemical modifications in Maifanite, including the observed zero potential point shift, which collectively enhance its capacity for comprehensive heavy metal prevention and control in both soil and groundwater systems. This research provides crucial theoretical foundations for the sustainable development and utilization of Naiman Banner Maifanite in groundwater purification applications.
  • CHEN Mengshi, XIAO Kun, LI Hongxing, ZHANG Hua, YANG Yaxin, HU Xudong, XU Yichen, JIAO Changwei, YIN Dening
    Online available: 2025-10-11
    Abstract:To improve the accuracy of lithology identification in uranium mine borehole strata and addressthe limitations of traditional ensemble learning models in achieving satisfactory lithology recognitionperformance, this study proposes a PCA-optimized Stacking ensemble learning model. The methodology beginsby quantitatively evaluating the linear correlation strength between various logging parameters and the targetlithology using Pearson correlation coefficients. This statistical analysis is further refined by incorporatinggeophysical mechanisms of well logging, leading to the selection of six logging parameters that demonstratestrong lithological relevance as input features. These parameters effectively capture essential petrophysicalcharacteristics while minimizing redundancy in the feature set. Simultaneously, the model employs a dual-facetedapproach to base learner selection. The Pearson correlation coefficients of prediction errors among base learnersare systematically calculated to assess their error interdependence. Additionally, the Q-statistic matrix is utilizedto evaluate the correlation and diversity of prediction outcomes. From this, a combination of base models withstrong error complementarity (i.e., low correlation) and significant prediction mode differences (i.e., low Q-value)is selected. To optimally consolidate the predictive information, the PCA algorithm is utilized to perform aweighted fusion of the prediction results derived from the diverse base models. The resulting principalcomponents, which represent the most discriminative fused features, then form the refined input feature space fortraining the second-layer meta-model, thereby achieving a sophisticated and high-accuracy multi-level ensemblelearning framework. Experimental results show that the PCA-optimized Stacking model achieves a recognitionaccuracy of 97.19%, significantly outperforming traditional Stacking models and all individual models. Theexperimental results indicate that the recognition accuracy of the PCA-optimized Stacking model reaches97.19%, significantly outperforming both the traditional Stacking model and all individual models. Furthermore,the study provides valuable insights and a novel technical framework for lithology identification in sandstonetypeuranium mine borehole strata, contributing to more reliable and efficient geological interpretation in uraniumexploration and mining operations.
  • CAO Wengeng, LU Chongsheng, ZHUANG Haiyan, CONG Rihui, TONG Yanlong, REN Yu, LI Xiangzhi, LU Yao, WANG Yanyan
    Online available: 2025-09-21
    Abstract: As a water conservation area in the Horqin agro-pastoral ecotone, Naiman Banner boasts strontium and metasilicic acid-rich groundwater, which provides opportunities for groundwater health research and mineral water development. This study selected the southern mountainous area of Naiman Banner, Inner Mongolia, as the target area. Based on hydrogeological surveys and test data from 37 groups of groundwater samples, hydrogeochemical analysis methods were employed to reveal the spatial differentiation patterns and formation mechanisms of strontium-rich and metasilicic acid groundwater. Results indicated that the groundwater in the study area is neutral weak alkaline, with HCO3-Ca as the main hydrochemical type. The strontium content ranges from 0.24 to 1.83 mg/L, and the metasilicic acid content ranges from 14.9 to 29.9 mg/L. The strontium rich metasilicic acid composite groundwater is distributed around the Maifanshi mining area in the area. The weathering and dissolution of carbonate rocks and silicate rocks, as well as the alternating adsorption of cations, promote the enrichment of strontium in groundwater. Indoor experiments have shown that the leaching of vermiculite is beneficial for the formation of metasilicic groundwater. The study also indicates that the pore fissure aquifer in the area has the potential for industrialized development of strontium and metasilicic acid-rich mineral water, providing scientific basis for rural revitalization and coordinated utilization of geological resources.
  • LU Chongsheng, CAO Wengeng, ZHUANG Haiyan, CONG Rihui, TONG Yanlong, REN Yu, LI Xiangzhi, SONG Le, LU Yao, GUO Jiju
    Online available: 2025-09-17
    Abstract:The farming-pastoral zone in Naiman Banner is located in the hinterland of of Horqin Sandy Land. The research on the formation mechanism and background value of groundwater hydrochemistry supports the allocation of water resources and the green development of agriculture and animal husbandry. Based on hydrogeological survey and hydrogeochemical analysis, combined with self-organizing map neural network (SOM) and K-means clustering hybrid algorithm, this study revealed the characteristics of groundwater chemical composition, main controlling factors and environmental background values. Results indicated significant spatial heterogeneity in groundwater chemistry, with HCO3-Ca·Mg as the predominant hydrochemical type and weakly alkaline characteristics. Groundwater chemical evolution is primarily driven by dissolution-precipitation of carbonate minerals and weathering of silicate minerals, and controlled by alternating positive cation adsorption. The apparent background values of Total Fe (TFe), F- , TDS and NO3-N, key indicators affecting the quality of groundwater in Naiman Banner, were 0.42~0.56 mg/L, 0.34~0.38 mg/L, 181~188 mg/L and 0.22~1.58 mg/L, respectively, which were estimated by using a coupled approach of hydrogeochemical graphic method, Grubbs test and SOM. The high background of TFe may be related to siderite dissolution, while the F- enrichment is controlled by fluorite dissolution and alternating positive cation adsorption. This research elucidates the groundwater background values and hydrochemical formation mechanisms in the farming-pastoral zone of Naiman Banner, providing scientific support for the optimization management of regional water resource, pollution prevention, and ecological conservation.
  • YUAN Yufan, GOU Wenxian, LIU Yihan, HUANG Yi, REN Chao, LI Wei
    Online available: 2025-08-31
    Abstract: Rare earth elements and yttrium (REY) are one of the most critical strategic resources in the world today. However, the intensive exploitation and supply of conventional rare metal deposits—primarily those associated with alkaline igneous rocks and ion-adsorption clays, have led to mounting challenges for the rare earth industry, including declining resource security and increasing environmental pressure. This situation underscores the urgent need to seek alternative rare earth resources. Sedimentary phosphate rocks and deep sea REY-rich sediments have emerged as promising alternatives. They are widely distributed, possess large reserves, and are enriched in heavy rare earth elements. In recent years, considerable research have focused on the REY resource potential and mineralization mechanism of these two deposits. They found that there are several economically valuable the mineral concentrated area, distributing globally. Several studies have established mining and utilization models and developed REY extraction strategies. In terms of the ore formation mechanism, current knowledge suggests that the enrichment of REY in deep-sea sediments and phosphorus deposits is closely tied to phosphorus-enrichment, although these deposits have certain differences in terms of occurrence form, mineralization environment, and rare earth source, etc. Sorption at mineral-solution interface along with early diagenesis, are considered as the key processes to REY enrichment. However, Most of these studies were published in the past 15 years, and their systematicness and depth still fall short. For example, despite their potential, commercial development remains constrained by technical, environmental, and economic challenges— including mining equipment limitations, ecological risks, and uncertain market revenues. As a result, large-scale industrial extraction from deep-sea sediments has yet to be realized. Additionally, REY enrichment mechanisms is poorly understood. In the future, multidisciplinary collaboration will be essential. Collaborative research involving multiple disciplines and multiple technical methods will enable more precise estimation of resource reserves and contribute to the metallogenic enrichment theories. This paper provides a comprehensive overview of recent advances in the understanding of the rare earth resource replacement potential and offers perspectives for future research directions in this field.
  • LEI Mengmeng, ZHENG Qianqian, HU Yi, MAO Wenjing, YIN Yongsheng, LIU Qiao, GUAN Zhuo, LU Xuyang, LIU Chen
    Advances in Earth Science.
    Online available: 2025-06-29
    Abstract:The accelerated retreat of glaciers on the Tibetan Plateau has led to mobilization and downstream transport of accumulated heavy metals, posing a potential risk to downstream ecosystems and human health. However, current research on the distribution and ecological risk of heavy metals in glacier retreat area is still limited. This study targets the monsoonal temperate Midui Glacier in southeastern Xizang and investigates the distribution and ecological risk of typical heavy metals in its debris and soils in retreat area as well as water environment. Results show that soil heavy metal contents range from 144.8 to 520.0 mg/kg, which is dominated by Zn, As and Cr with relatively large spatial variation. The contents of Cd and Hg are at low levels. Soil heavy metal levels progressively increase from the debris to the different stages of retreat area, driven by soil development, vegetation succession, and intensified human activities, with the highest contents observed in the third retreat stage. Most heavy metals (except Cu, Pb, and Hg) exhibit significant differences among the retreat stages, while correlate significantly with soil pH and nutrients. In the glacial meltwater, concentrations of heavy metals from proglacial lakes to downstream rivers vary between 3.76 and 33.37 μg/L, and remain well below Class I water quality standards. Noticeably, elevated levels are detected near the outlet of proglacial lake (Guangxie Cuo) at the Midui Glacier viewpoint and in downstream passing through a village, reflecting strong influence of anthropogenic activities. Ecological risk assessment reveals that heavy metals together pose a moderate potential ecological risk in soils, which is dominated by Cd and As, while there is no risk in water environment. These findings offer critical baseline data and a valuable case for understanding heavy metal biogeochemistry under glacier ecosystem changes on the Tibetan Plateau.
  • SONG Shuhua, WANG Zhenzhan
    Online available: 2025-05-22
    Abstract:Ice clouds are a critical component of the Earth’s weather and climate system. The orientation of ice crystals influences the scattering properties of these clouds, subsequently impacting the accuracy of remote sensing and numerical weather prediction. With the advancement of dedicated satellite programs for ice cloud observation, precise quantification of ice crystal orientation is becoming increasingly important. This review summarizes research progress in the remote sensing of ice crystal orientation. Both active and passive remote sensing techniques are systematically reviewed for their application across various spectral bands. The detection mechanisms, advantages, and disadvantages of diverse remote sensing techniques are analyzed, with particular emphasis on the prospects of spaceborne terahertz radiometers. While existing techniques demonstrate some capacity for ice crystal orientation studies, quantitative retrievals remain challenging due to ice crystal complexity, observational constraints, and limitations in retrieval algorithms. Finally, future research directions are discussed, focusing on the development of novel detection instrumentation, accurate calculation of ice crystal scattering properties, optimization of radiative transfer modeling, and the synergistic integration of multi-source remote sensing datasets.
  • LIU Yan, ZHOU Yuefei, DU Mengmeng, XU Zitao, XIE Qiaoqin, LI Quanzhong, CHEN Tianhu
    Online available: 2025-05-16
    Abstract: In supergene environments, nanosized iron (hydr)oxides and phosphate minerals are widely distributed and exhibit significant sequestration effects on phosphorus (P) and rare earth elements (REEs). Although previous studies have found that both forms of P can be utilized by microorganisms, how microbial activities constrain the geochemical behavior of mineral-bound REEs during P utilization has received little attention thus far. This study investigated the utilization of Nano-mineral bound P by Microcystis aeruginosa and the associated REEs fractionation under weakly alkaline and high CO23- conditions, using ferrihydrite (Fh) and apatite (Ap) loaded with P and REEs as P sources through dialysis methods (isolating cells from minerals). Results demonstrated that M. aeruginosa utilized Nano-mineral bound P at low efficiency, while both dissolved and Nano-mineral bound REEs exhibited moderate toxicity to the cyanobacterium. In REE experiments, all solutions were enriched in heavy REEs (HREEs) after 17 day cultivation. For algal cells and extracellular polymeric substances (EPS), REE fractionation was observed only in experiment with highly dissolved REE concentration (enriched in light REEs, LREEs) and experiment of ferrihydrite + dialysis (enriched in HREEs). Filamentous EPS preferentially accumulated middle REEs (MREEs, particularly Sm, Eu, and Gd), while secondary calcium phosphates and iron (hydr)oxides sequestered MREEs −HREEs. It is considered that: ①The selective adsorption of REE³ ⁺ under weak alkaline conditions by cells and EPS (C&E) consistently enriches HREEs in solutions; ②Cells and EPS enrichment in LREEs occurs when the REE/anion (especially CO23-) ratio in solution is elevated; ③No REE fractionation in cells and EPS when REEs originate from mineral phases; ④ EPSmediated selective REE complexation from minerals may drive HREE enrichment in cells and EPS; ⑤ The preferential accumulation of MREEs−HREEs in EPS and secondary solid phases may be the underlying cause of positive anomalies of these elements in eutrophic waters. Thus, anomalies of MREEs (e. g., Eu) may serve as effective proxies for assessing the degree of aquatic eutrophication.
  • LI Chenhao, LIANG Wenjun, HU Hui, DONG Wenjie, LÜJianhua
    Online available: 2025-02-03
    Abstract:As the climate crisis intensifies, the Earth & Climate System Model as a key numerical simulation tool for predicting and responding to future climate change has become increasingly important. The Coupled Model Intercomparison Project (CMIP) aims to promote model development and deepen scientific understanding of the Earth’s climate system, and has become a core platform for international model exchange and application. This paper summarizes China’s participation in the sixth CMIP (CMIP6), and statistically analyzes the citation situation, research overview and characteristics of Chinese models in CMIP6-related studies. The results show that Chinese models are widely used and have a far-reaching impact, but lack highly cited achievements. It is necessary to integrate resources and focus on developing representative models. In addition, this paper briefly introduces the seventh Coupled Model Intercomparison Project (CMIP7) under preparation, and summarizes the opportunities and challenges China faces in model development. The application prospects of Chinese models are broad, but there is still room for improvement. China should continue to increase investment in research and development, maintain international competitiveness, and be well-prepared for continued in-depth participation in global climate change governance.
  • WU Jiakun, HU Xiaofei, PAN Baotian, CAO Xilin, WEN Zhenling, SUN Qiang, LI Menghao, ZHAO Qiming
    Online available: 2025-02-03
    Abstract:The Qilian Shan, the youngest mountain range formed by the northward expansion of the Tibetan Plateau, plays a crucial role in understanding the plateau’s expansion processes, uplift mechanisms, and the evolution of orogenic belts. Drainage system evolution responds rapidly to mountain uplift, making the study of drainage development and evolution a critical approach for investigating the uplift and expansion of the Qilian Shan. Based on chronological and provenance studies of geomorphic records, including erosion surfaces, river terraces, wind gaps and ancient river channels, and Cenozoic sedimentary strata, the current research on drainage system evolution in the Qilian Shan has yielded the following findings and insights: ① The formation and evolution of the upper reaches of the Yellow River in the eastern Qilian Shan involve a process of drainage reorganization driven by tectonic uplift or climate change, characterized by headward erosion and river capture; ② Research on river terraces in the Shiyang River and Heihe River basins of the northern Qilian Shan, as well as in the Lanzhou Basin of the eastern Qilian Shan, indicates climate change and tectonic uplift independently govern the timing (transitions between glacial and interglacial periods, and interglacial periods) and extent of river incision; Since the Holocene, terrace formation has been primarily driven by climate change, with river incision occurred during warm and humid periods; ③ River terraces reliably record the evolution processes of major tributaries of the Yellow River in the eastern Qilian Shan, including the Huangshui River (flow reversal) and the Datong River (river capture); ④ Study of chronology, provenance, and paleohydrology of Cenozoic sedimentary strata in the Yumu Shan of the northern Qilian Shan, as well as the Wulan and Chacha basins of the southern Qilian Shan, has reliably reconstructed the regional drainage evolution history, highlighting the significant potential of sedimentary strata for reconstructing reliable and detailed record of drainage evolution. Simultaneously, numerous critical issues remain unresolved, necessitating further investigation. Future research is expected to prioritize and emphasize in-depth studies on geomorphic surface and sediments dating, the integration of multi-source methods for provenance analysis, continuous exploration of geomorphic features, as well as advancements in numerical simulations and simulation modeling studies.
  • GUAN Min, ZHANG Yong, LI Yun, YAO Yixin, CHANG Yuan, SHAO Yikai
    Online available: 2025-02-02
    Abstract: During more than 50 years of continuous research and technological innovation, China's Fengyun Meteorological Satellite System has got significant achievement. 21 Fengyun satellites have been launched. Currently, 9 of them are operating stably in orbit, forming a comprehensive observation system that includes geostationary orbit and sun synchronous polar orbit satellites. By reviewing the development history and current status of Fengyun meteorological satellites and remote sensing instruments, the effectiveness of ground segments in data reception, processing, and operation, as well as the construction and service of application systems, the technical capabilities of Fengyun meteorological satellites, their ground segments and application systems have been analyzed comprehensively. Through comparative analysis with major countries around the world in terms of meteorological satellite network observation, remote sensing instrument technology, and ground segment operation capabilities, it is found that Fengyun Meteorological Satellites not only have a complete orbit layout and remote sensing instrument configuration, but its remote sensing instrument detection capability has reached the international advanced level, although some performance indicators still have room for improvement. The ground segments have established an efficient data reception, processing, and service process, with advanced data pre-processing technology and sub-pixel level geolocation accuracy. The radiometric calibration accuracy is 3% in the visible band and 0.2 K in the infrared band. In addition, the Fengyun Meteorological Satellite System has established a comprehensive and complete quantitative product system for atmospheric, land, marine, and space weather, and has established a radiation correction field for Chinese remote sensing satellites, and carried out authenticity verification of remote sensing products. Fengyun satellite data has been widely used in various fields such as weather forecasting, climate change research, ecological environment monitoring, and natural disaster warning, and its application level is constantly improving. In the future, the Fengyun meteorological satellite observation system aims to evolve towards establishing a hybrid-architecture space observation system, achieving comprehensive and precise perception of observation elements, enabling intelligent and efficient operation of satellite-ground systems, integrating emerging technologies in data processing, expanding remote sensing application scenarios, and fostering international cooperation and sharing.
  • ZHANG Jingyong
    Online available: 2024-12-19
    A new framework for studies of climate change projections and disaster risks oriented towards carbon neutrality was built up, based on a division method of positive emissions period-net zero period-net negative period. Focusing on main Belt and Road regions, future mean and extreme climate change projections and disaster risks oriented towards carbon neutrality were systematically addressed under SSP1-1.9 and SSP1-2.6 sustainable development pathways. It is projected that over global carbon neutrality or net-zero periods, climate change will exhibit new characteristics and patterns, and disaster risks will undergo new changes over the main Belt and Road regions. The newly developed framework provides a new scheme for climate change projections and disaster risks assessment. It is proposed that the seventh assessment report of Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change (IPCC) and the other future assessment report on climate change should include climate change projections and disaster risks assessment oriented towards carbon neutrality, which can provide new scientific knowledge for jointly dealing with climate change and achieving sustainable development. In addition, the role and application of Artificial Intelligence in future climate change projections and climate disasters assessment are discussed.
  • ZHAO Qiang, ZHENG Yongguang, JING Yu, FENG Dian, LIU Juju
    Online available: 2024-12-13
    Abstract:Short-duration heavy precipitation is one type of the most important severe convective disaster weather in China, which is prone to cause urban waterlogging and secondary geological disasters such as mountain torrents, mudslides, and landslides. This paper reviews the main progress in short-duration heavy precipitation in China in recent years, and compared the relevant research findings of the United States and Europe briefly, covering the spatiotemporal distribution characteristics and diurnal variation characteristics of short-duration heavy precipitation; the atmospheric circulation situation and environmental conditions for the occurrence and development of short-duration heavy precipitation in major regions of China; the radar echo characteristics and raindrop characteristics; the impact of topography and urbanization on short-duration heavy precipitation and its mechanism; and then the application of artificial intelligence in the potential forecasting, short-term forecasting, and nowcasting of short-duration heavy precipitation in China. With global warming, the frequency and intensity of short-duration heavy precipitation are increasing. In the future, it is necessary to further study its formation mechanism and environmental conditions, improve the spatiotemporal resolution of observations, strengthen the application of new observation data, enhance the forecasting capability of highresolution rapid update cycle assimilation numerical weather prediction models through the fusion analysis of multi-source and dense observation data, optimize the deep learning model and algorithm, especially in the development of large deep learning models to enhance the forecasting and early warning capabilities for shortduration heavy precipitation.
  • WANG Wenyu, XU Jian, WANG Zhenzhan, LU Hao, LIU Jingyi, ZHANG Dehai
    Online available: 2024-12-12
    Abstract: Long-term observations and data analysis of the Earth’s middle and upper atmosphere, an important region for the study of atmospheric processes and even climate change for the study of human activities and climate change, are still sorely lacking. Terahertz limb-sounding technology can obtain atmospheric profiles all day and near all-weather with high vertical resolution (about 1~5 km), and is particularly sensitive to some of the halogen gases associated with ozone depletion which is an important method to measure the Earth's middle and upper atmosphere parameters. The Earth’s middle and upper atmosphere constitutes a crucial region for studying atmospheric processes and even climate change. However, there remains a significant lack of long-term observational data and comprehensive analysis for this atmospheric layer. Terahertz limb sounding technology has emerged as a vital tool for measuring atmospheric parameters in these regions, capable of obtaining atmospheric profiles with relatively high vertical resolution (1~5 km) under near-all-weather conditions with diurnal availability. Particularly sensitive to halogen gases associated with ozone depletion, this technology offers unique advantages. Focusing on terahertz limb sounding technology, this study systematically reviews the technological evolution and current status of terahertz payloads: While existing systems have successfully achieved high vertical resolution measurements of multiple trace gases in the middle and upper atmosphere, current payloads still face challenges such as bulky system configurations and inadequate noise suppression capabilities. Based on newly developed prototype payloads, next-generation terahertz detection systems primarily emphasize advancements in low-noise and miniaturization technologies. Regarding data processing, conventional physical retrieval algorithms suffer from low computational efficiency. The introduction of artificial intelligence technology demonstrates potential to significantly enhance retrieval efficiency while maintaining accuracy. Future development urgently requires breakthroughs in core technologies including terahertz low-noise receivers and high-resolution digital spectrometers, which will further propel the advancement of terahertz limb sounding technology in China.
  • NI Jie, WU Tonghua, ZHANG Xue, ZHU Xiaofan, CHEN Jie, DU Yizhen
    Online available: 2024-11-19
    The Three Rivers Source Region (TRSR) is an important water source and ecological reserve in China, and revealing the changes in the characteristics of its freeze-thaw index can provide a scientific basis for the assessment of the local permafrost environment as well as the response to climate change. In this study, the temporal and spatial characteristics of the Air Freezing and Thawing Indices (AFTI) in the TRSR for the period 1979-2022 were analyzed using the day-by-day air temperature data from a high-resolution near-surface meteorological forcing dataset for the Third Pole region (TPMFD) by means of air freezing and thawing index and other methods. The results show that the mean value of the freezing index in the TRSR over the past 44 years is 1 930.23 °C·d, exhibiting a spatial pattern of gradually decreasing from west to east. In contrast, the thawing index displays an opposite spatial pattern with an average value of 879.25 °C·d. Overall, the freezing index in the TRSR has shown a fluctuating decreasing trend at a rate of -10.01 °C·d/a for the last 44 years with an abrupt change in 2001, while the thawing index has shown a fluctuating increasing trend at a rate of 6.29 °C·d/a with no significant abrupt change. Altitude, as a key factor of freezing and thawing indices in the TRSR, showed a significant correlation, and for every 100 m increase in altitude, the thawing index in the TRSR decreased by about 87 °C·d, and the freezing index increased by about 107 °C·d.
  • SONG Wanjuan, WANG Li, XU Shiguang, HUANG Ni, NIU Zheng
    Online available: 2024-11-08
    Deep space exploration, serving as a pivotal avenue for uncovering the universe's mysteries and fostering sustainable development, has emerged as the foremost strategic frontier in space technology. After decades of development, this technology has been widely used in the exploration of various celestial bodies in the solar system. In February 2015, the first deep space exploration satellite targeting the Earth, the Deep Space Observatory (DSCOVR), was successfully deployed at the Sun-Earth Lagrange Point 1 (L1), providing new perspectives and data for the study of Earth system science, while also posing new challenges to traditional satellite data research. This paper comprehensively analyzes more than 100 related papers and conference summaries published on the official website of the National Aeronautics and Space Administration (NASA) since the launch of DSCOVR. From the three levels of basic research, applied research and special research, this paper comprehensively reviews the development status, advantages and future development direction of deep space earth observation. This study reveals that deep space Earth observation can integrate existing satellite-aircraftground systems, establishing a benchmark for multi-source data fusion to create globally comprehensive, highfrequency temporal, and multi-spectral datasets for an integrated Earth observation system. It provides temporally consistent, spatially continuous, and spectrally stable global observation data, showing significant potential in the study of large-scale geophysical phenomena across the atmosphere, biosphere, hydrosphere, and lithosphere. Future advancements in sensor innovation, optimized detection technologies, and diversified observation points are expected to enable all-temporal, all-directional, and all-dimensional Earth observation. This will enhance our understanding of physical, chemical, and biological systems on Earth.
  • YU Wenzheng, WANG Minyan, WEI Zhudeng, YU Longhui
    Online available: 2024-11-08
    To investigate the evolution of extreme runoff at the regional scale and its climatic driving mechanisms, the Huangshui River Basin, sensitive to climate change, was selected as a case study. Daily average flow data were collected from seven stations within the basin. Mann-Kendall (M-K) trend analysis and mutation tests were used to assess the interannual variation of extreme runoff and its associations with extreme precipitation and extreme high temperatures.The results show that over the past 60 years, the extreme high flow index in the basin has decreased significantly, while the extreme low flow index has increased notably. The frequency index did not show any significant trend, but all indices demonstrated persistence. A mutation in the high flow index occurred around 2000, while mutations in the low flow and frequency indices were noted in 2010. In terms of cycles, a short cycle of approximately three years was observed for all indices. Additionally, the frequency index exhibited a long cycle of 32.5 years. The variations in runoff were significantly related to an overall increase in extreme precipitation intensity, a decrease in precipitation duration, and the intensification of extreme high temperatures in the basin. Extreme high flow was positively correlated with extreme precipitation and negatively correlated with extreme high temperatures. In contrast, extreme low flow showed a primary positive correlation with extreme high temperatures, with a less significant correlation to extreme precipitation. These findings provide important insights for the utilization of water resources and flood disaster reduction in the Huangshui River Basin.
  • DU Jingwen, TONG Chenchen, HUANG Ching-Sheng
    Online available: 2024-11-08
    Deriving shape factor in analytical models for flow in double-porosity media is partially empirical. This study proposes a new flow equation and new shape factor for matrixes without empirical derivations in considering the problem of the standard pumping test in double-porosity confined aquifers. For a single fracture-strip matrix medium, a new analytical model incorporating the new flow equation and new shape factor is developed; the analytical solution is derived. For a fracture network-matrix medium, a finite element solution depending on the new flow equation and new shape factor is built without discretizing the space in each matrix. Results show the shape factor for the strip matrix is the reciprocal of the square of the matrix width, for the circular matrix is the reciprocal of the square of the radius, but for other shapes of matrix is an empirical parameter. The relative error of the fracture drawdown predicted by the analytical solution with the new shape factor is less than 5%. The relative error considering existing shape factors is, however, about 99%. When the ratio of the fracture area to the total medium area (defined as fracture density) exceeds 62%, the fracture networkmatrix medium can be regarded as a double-porosity continuous medium. The finite element solution has applied to a field standard pumping test.
  • WANG Shuting, CAO Shuyun, ZHAN Lefan, LIU Jianhua, CHENG Xuemei
    Online available: 2024-11-08
    It is of great significance to clearly define the mineral deformation and slip system for in-depth analysis of the intrinsic mechanism of mineral response to external stress and temperature, as well as its rheological weakening process. The rapid development of science and technology and its deep integration in the geological field provide an opportunity for detailed analysis of structural deformed behavior and mechanism. This study takes quartz and amphibole in typical naturally deformed rocks as examples. Based on microstructure analysis, the comprehensive analysis was conducted on the massive mineral lattice preferred orientation data accumulated using the Electron Backscatter Diffraction (EBSD) probe mounted on the Field Emission Scanning Electron Microscope (FESEM). Based on microstructural features, EBSD mapping data, dislocation geometry types, and properties, a detailed analysis method for grain boundary trace and misorientation (axes) is elaborated. It is revealed that strain adjustment and grain refinement process of the quartz are mainly through the {m} slip system dominated by subgrain rotational recrystallization mechanism in quartz veins. It is also found that in mylonitic amphibolites, the amphibole porphyroclasts exhibit strong deformation behavior of fine-grained under the dominance of subgrain rotational recrystallization. The amphibole exhibits the interaction of multi-slip systems dominated by the [001] direction through dislocation creep in the banded amphibolites. Therefore, combining the EBSD grain boundary trace with the misorientation axis analysis method and microstructure features can completely count the micro-geological information (composition, shape, grain size, orientation, boundary, strain, etc.) of deformed minerals, and well reveal the orientation evolution law from the grain interior to between grains (or matrix). Moreover, the dominant slip system in the mineral deformation process can be effectively defined and related to the deformation environment, which has important geological significance.
  • LI Jun, ZHAO Yang, CHEN Zhaozhou, ZHANG Lele, CAO Huan, LI Shichang
    Online available: 2024-10-18
    Abstract: The prediction of borehole collapse pressure plays a key role in drilling safety, reducing construction cost and realizing efficient drilling. The fracture development in complex ultra-deep geological conditions has a great influence on the prediction of borehole collapse pressure. The conventional methods are mostly based on finite element simulation for 3D geomechanical modeling and 3D collapse stress prediction. Although the method is highly accurate, it requires huge computing power resources. In order to solve this problem, an efficient and fast in-situ stress modeling method flow driven by seismic data is proposed in this paper, which is then used for 3D collapse pressure prediction. Firstly, combined with multi-scale data of pre-stack seismic and rock mechanics logging, a combined spring model with curvature properties is established to complete the efficient and rapid modeling of three-dimensional in-situ stress field, and is used to calculate threedimensional borehole stress. Secondly, based on the maximum likelihood attribute, the fracture development is obtained from 3D seismic data to provide 3D weak surface attribute parameters for the study area. Finally, the collapse model of sliding along fracture plane is calculated by using Mohr-Coulomb criterion, and the collapse pressure prediction of fractured formation is realized from one-dimensional logging data to three-dimensional working area. The method is applied in the woodworking area of Tari, and the results show that the prediction results of the model are in good agreement with the measured data, reaching 93.79%. The prediction results of collapse pressure are in good agreement with the interpretation results of formation microresistivity scanning imaging, which verifies the feasibility of this method in predicting borehole wall collapse events. This study can realize the rapid modeling of collapse pressure with high precision, and effectively provide an integrated solution of geological engineering for drilling construction in ultra-deep and complex areas.
  • LEI Wenjie, LUO Dongliang, CHEN Fangfang, LIU Jia, PENG Yifei, LI Shizhen, SHEN Qi
    Online available: 2024-10-18
    Abstract:The thermal regime of soil is vital for indicating the presence and thermal stability of permafrost. To investigate the long-term changes in the thermal regime of permafrost in the Headwater Area of the Yellow River (HAYR), we first constructed a mathematical model for soil heat transfer to simulate the dynamics of ground temperatures at six boreholes using the HYDRUS-1D model. The reliability and applicability of the model were confirmed through parameter calibration procedures. Subsequently, the changes in permafrost thermal regime from 1979 to 2018 in the HAYR were simulated using monthly air temperature data extracted from the China Meteorological Forcing Dataset (CMFD). The model simulations revealed an abrupt change in mean annual ground temperature in the HAYR after 1999. Prior to 1999, the changing rates were from ?0.037 to 0.026 °C/a, whereas after 1999, they ranged from 0.006 to 0.120 °C/a. The abrupt increase in mean annual air temperature in 1998 and the occurrence of extreme climate disasters in 1999 were identified as the primary reasons for the sudden changes in permafrost thermal regime in 1999. The rise in permafrost temperature and the decrease in its thermal stability are expected to have various impacts on the water resources conservation function and biogeochemical cycle. This study can provide scientific and technological support for clarifying the response patterns of plateau permafrost to climate change and for strengthening zoning and control of the ecological environment in the HAYR.
  • SUN Jianhua, TIAN Fuyou, XIA Rudi, ZHENG Linlin, HUANG Yue
    Online available: 2024-10-18
    Abstract:To improve the understanding of the formation mechanism and forecast accuracy of severe convective winds(SCWs), the important achievements of the formation mechanism and forecasting methods of severe convective winds and related convective systems were reviewed. Firstly, the spatial and temporal distribution characteristics of severe convective wind in the world are briefly introduced. SCWs in China mainly occur in the eastern region, with high-frequency areas in northern North China, central and southern Northeast China, and Guangdong Province. Then, the relationship between the organizational modes and structural features of the parent convective systems that generates SCWs, the influence of atmospheric environmental conditions, forecasting methods are summarized. Squall lines and bow echoes are important convective systems that generate SCWs, especially strong SCWs. The rear inflow jet and meso-γ-scale vortices in squall lines or bow echoes are important structural features that generate SCWs. The environmental conditions and forecasting methods for SCWs are summarized. The environmental thermal and dynamic factors can affect the generation and intensity of SCWs, but the intensity of convective activity mainly depends on the covariant relationship between convective effective potential energy and vertical wind shear. Numerical model forecasting, physics-based methods (ingredients-based method), and deep learning/machine learning methods are currently the main methods used in short-term forecasting operations for SCWs. Finally, it is indicated that the following issues associated with SCWs in China should be studied, including detailed spatiotemporal distribution characteristics, formation mechanisms of SCWs under different environmental conditions, and forecasting methods.
  • HE Jinqiu, LI Haipeng, HOU Mingcai
    Online available: 2024-10-18
    Abstract:The study of source-to-sink systems is an important field of research focused on understanding the entire process of material transport from source areas, such as mountain ranges or other landforms, to sink areas like river basins, lakes, or the ocean. This process involves the weathering of parent rock, the erosion of materials, their transport via various agents (such as wind, water, or ice), and their eventual deposition at sink locations. Analyzing this system helps reveal dynamic surface changes, material cycling mechanisms, and how these processes respond to environmental shifts over time. Understanding these complex processes is crucial for a variety of scientific fields, including geomorphology, environmental science, and natural resource management. Traditional methods used to study these systems, such as field observations and laboratory analyses, often face several limitations. Data availability, low spatial-temporal resolution, and ambiguity in interpretation make it difficult to capture the rapid and dynamic changes occurring in natural systems. Furthermore, these methods are not well-suited for analyzing long-term evolutionary processes or large-scale systems. As a result, numerical modeling has become a critical tool in the study of source-to-sink systems, addressing these traditional limitations by simulating complex processes over varying spatial and temporal scales. These models provide more quantitative insights into the dynamics of erosion, transport, and deposition under different environmental conditions.This paper highlights five key numerical tools commonly used in source-to-sink research: Dionisos, SEDSIM, Landlab, goSPL, and Delft3D. Each tool has specific advantages that make them suitable for different research needs. Dionisos, for instance, is particularly effective for modeling large-scale, long-term basin filling processes, but it may not be as effective for simulating small-scale, dynamic changes. SEDSIM, which is based on hydrodynamic equations, offers highly accurate results, especially in clastic sedimentary processes, though it tends to be slower and more focused on specific types of sediments. Landlab is highly customizable and capable of multi-process simulations, but it requires advanced programming skills for its effective use. goSPL excels at handling global-scale, high-resolution simulations, though it struggles with localized phenomena and demands significant computational resources. Delft3D, meanwhile, is ideal for small-scale, fine-detail simulations, particularly in coastal, riverine, and lacustrine environments, although it faces challenges in large-scale applications.As computational power continues to grow and algorithms improve, future advancements in sourceto- sink modeling are expected. The integration of big data and AI will likely play a key role in driving further developments, enabling more accurate predictions, facilitating multidisciplinary integration, and fostering the intelligent evolution of the field.
  • HUANG Baorong, ZHOU Zhe, CHU Huaqiang, DAI Chaomeng, YANG Shouye, ZHANG Yalei
    Online available: 2024-10-18
    Abstract:Carbon neutrality is a crucial strategy for combating global warming, and Negative Emissions Technologies (NETs) are key to achieving this goal. The ocean, as the largest carbon reservoir on Earth, plays an irreplaceable role in regulating the global carbon cycling and holds significant potential for negative emissions. Ocean alkalinity enhancement is regarded as a highly efficient and ecologically beneficial negative emissions technology. This technology not only increases ocean alkalinity by adding alkaline minerals to seawater, thereby enhancing the absorption of atmospheric CO2, but also improves the buffer capacity to resist the ocean acidification. This study introduces the mechanisms and advancements in ocean alkalinity enhancement research at multiple scales, based on the dissolution theory of carbonates in the ocean. Assessing the potential for negative emissions and associated costs reveals several challenges regarding implementation pathways, environmental impacts and public acceptance. Considering the specific conditions of China's coastal regions and the characteristics of ocean alkalinity enhancement technology, the study proposes the pathway integrated with wastewater treatment plant and coastal engineering. Furthermore, it presents an innovative concept on the application of ocean alkalinity enhancement and enriches the scientific understanding of blue carbon sinks.
  • LI Yue, WANG Ying, LI Yuecong, ZHANG Ruchun, MA Linyuan, YOU Hanfei, WANG Rongrong, CAO Yihang, XU Qinghai
    Online available: 2024-10-17
    阿里地区作为高寒荒漠草原的代表区域,是青藏高原独有的荒漠草原类型。其相对花粉 产量和相关花粉源范围,是基于花粉进行植被和气候定量研究的重要参数之一。基于阿里地区37 个样点的现代表土花粉和植被数据,利用ERV模型的不同子模型,以藜科花粉为参考种,估算了禾 本科、藜科、蒿属、菊科、十字花科和委陵菜属6 种主要花粉类型的相对花粉产量及相关花粉源范围。 结果显示,子模型2 估算结果最为理想,计算得到的研究区相关花粉源范围为1 550 m。主要花粉类 型的相对花粉产量如下:藜科(1.000),蒿属(1.286±0.058),菊科(0.689±0.043),委陵菜属(0.139± 0.008),十字花科(0.763±0.063)和禾本科(0.003±0.006)。留一法和REVEALS 模型检验表明,上述 相对花粉产量和相关花粉源范围结果均较为可信,可应用于区域植被重建。
  • LIU Yu, WU Zhijun, PU Xiao, MIN Xiangyu, SHENG Anxu, LI Ziyan, CAI Yanjiang, YU Zhen, ZHANG Jianjun
    Online available: 2024-09-27
    Abstract: Statistical analysis was conducted on submission, acceptance, review and grant funding of various projects managed by the discipline of Environmental Geosciences, Department of Earth Sciences, National Natural Science Foundation of China in 2024. Academic achievements of the completed projects in 2023 were partly summarized according to research subjects. This might provide enlightenment for potential project applicants.
  • ZHANG Liang, WANG Dong, ZHANG Xiaowen, ZHANG Jianheng, LU Shasha, LENG Shuying
    Online available: 2024-09-27
    Abstract:The application, peer-reviewing and funding statistic data of different types of projects in the Marine and Polar Sciences Division (Code: D06) in the Department of Earth Science at National Natural Science Foundation of China (NSFC) in the year of 2024 are analyzed in this article. Issues found in the management of NSFC funds are summarized as well. The information could help researchers to improve the quality of their proposals for NSFC funds and final reports of completed projects. In summary, D06 received proposals in General Program, Youth Science Fund, and Less Developed Regions Fund from 409 institutions in 2024, 46 more than last year. The number of proposals received in D06 raises to a new record of 3 191, 702 more than last year. In terms of final reports of completed projects, more projects added NSFC project number into the acknowledgement of their publications. However, the quality of some final reports could still be improved according to the rules.
  • LI Wei, GE Fei, YANG Yali, HE Jianjun, SHANG Huazhe, LIU Zhijuan
    Online available: 2024-09-27
    Abstract:The DivisionⅤ(Atmospheric Sciences Discipline) of the Department of Earth Sciences, National Natural Science Foundation of China (NSFC), has successfully completed the application, mail review, panel review, and funding results summaryof 2023 as scheduled. In terms of project applications, the Atmospheric Sciences Discipline received 2 312 applications for General Program, Young Scientists Fund, and Fund for Less Developed Regions in 2024, with an increase of 19.9% compared to 2023. From the perspective of review results, the comprehensive scores of the mail reviews for these three types of projects in 2024 were slightly lower than those in 2023.When determining the priorityprojects for panel review, the discipline layout wasconsidered.Two sections (i. e., the second-level application codes D0509 to D0515) were appropriately tilted toward the Supporting Technology and Development Fields. Under the equal conditions, preference was given to female applicants. After the panel review, the Atmospheric Science Discipline funded a total of 423 projects in the above three types, and successfully completed the funding plan determined by the Earth Science Department.With the aspect of concluding achievements, a total of 337 projects were completed in 2023, with the indicators such asthenumberof publications slightly increased compared to 2022.
  • GAO Yang, XIONG Juhua, ZHANG Zhonghao, LIU Jian, GENG Jing, ZHANG Da, GAO Linlin, WANG Fenglong, XIE Haichao, LI Wende
    Online available: 2024-09-25
    Abstract: National Natural Science Foundation of China (NSFC) is the main funding institution of fundamental research in China. Geography (or geographical science), as an important component of Earth sciences, is a fundamental discipline that studies the patterns of spatial differentiation, temporal evolution processes, and interaction mechanisms of natural factors, human elements, geographic information, and geographic complexes. It mainly includes three sub-disciplines: human geography, physical geography, and information geography. The acceptance of grant project application, the review of proposals, and the evaluation of project reports for the geography discipline are centrally managed by the Division of Geography in the Department of Earth Sciences of NSFC. This paper introduces the application and acceptance, review process, deliberation, and funding status of the NSFC projects for the three major sub-disciplines of geography during the 2024 annual centralized acceptance period. A statistical analysis was conducted on the research outcomes of projects completed at the end of 2023, highlighting the main research advancements achieved by some selected projects.
  • ZHENG Yuanming, XIAO Jun, LÜ Zeng, LI Wenbiao
    Online available: 2024-09-19
    Abstract: This paper systematically analyzes the application, acceptance, evaluation, and funding of the projects managed by the Geochemistry Discipline (Application Code: D03) of the Earth Sciences Department of National Natural Science Foundation of China in 2024, and analyzes the project completion and precautions in 2023. In 2024, the total number of applications for geochemical projects increased by 21% compared to 2023, among which the number of general projects increased by 45.5%. In the past four years, the total number of supporting units applying for projects has kept increasing continuously, and Earth’s surface geochemistry (D0310) has become a new growth point of the discipline. The general projects and youth projects are mainly based on “free-exploration basic research”, while the key projects in the field of “resource and energy formation theory and supply potential” are mainly based on “goal-oriented basic research”. In recent years, geochemistry discipline has remained characterized by a relatively small number of applications and slow growth. In the future, in-depth research and discussions should be conducted on how to maintain the inherent strengths in isotopic theories and technologies within the geochemistry discipline, guide the deep integration of basic research with target orientation and national needs, and promote the deep intersection and integration of geochemistry discipline with other disciplines. While expanding the direction of the field, efforts should be made to create highquality and advantageous disciplinary directions in geochemistry.
  • ZHENG Yuanming, HUANG Yuangeng, WANG Yang, ZENG Gang, LANG Xianguo, LIANG Changyu, SONG Zezhang, REN Jianguo
    Online available: 2024-09-19
    Abstract:To better understand the application status of geological science funding projects, improve the quality of proposals and final reports, and identify the current research hotspots in this discipline, this article analyzes the application, review, and funding situation of geological science projects (Code D02) in 2024. It examines issues in the acceptance and review process, and summarizes the completion of the 2023 annual closing projects along with the main research progress across various disciplines. Additionally, using the proposals for the general and young scientists funds related to Earth’s ecosystem evolution and energy fields in 2024 as samples, the word cloud analysis method is employed to statistically analyze the keywords in these proposals. This analysis reveals the research hotspots in this field and each sub-discipline, providing a valuable reference for scientific researchers applying for projects.
  • ZHAO Zheng, LIU Cheng, FENG Xiao, CHEN Shuotong, GONG Jingwen, LIU Zhiwei, WANG Yan, XIA Shaopan, LIU Xiaoyu, BIAN Rongjun, ZHANG Xuhui, CHENG Kun, ZHENG Jufeng, LI Lianqing, PAN Genxing
    Online available: 2024-09-13
    Abstract:Ecosystem functions and services provided by soil in earth surface has been considered as the key foundation supporting global society and environment sustainability. All of these functions and services are closely linked to aggregate hierarchy system of the soil cover. In this review, key ecosystem functions and services provided by soil including accumulation and stabilization of organic carbon, biodiversity conservation, Extracellular Enzyme Activities (EEAs) mediating biogeochemical cycling are overviewed linking to development of aggregate hierarchy system. In particular, understanding these functions and services by aggregate system in line with methodology updating of aggregate separation, characterization and data analysis/ synthesis are discussed in depth. The discussions are focused on potential mechanistic linkage of multi-functions of these soil carbon sequestration, microbial diversity protection and EEAs modulation to the diverse micro-scale spatial pattern of the different hierarchies of aggregate size fractions. Following, the dual structure of soil aggregates and the associated pore system is highlighted in the diverse provisioning of the above mentioned functions and services. In the way, we point to the diversity of the aggregate-pore structure of the hierarchy aggregate systems of or within a soil as the key to understand the formation and development of the above mentioned functions and services for a give soil system. Meanwhile, through re-visiting and exploring the original data in some cases of soil aggregate studies published, we propose some novel methods for better characterizing the key roles of soil aggregate system in provisioning the ecosystem services and the improvement with rational practices or reasonable interference so as to guide sustainable soil management. Finally, comments on the importance of soil aggregate study in the research of Earth system sustainability. We urge a holistic understanding of soil aggregates as fundamental soil functioning units, instead of a direct agent in field process. Considering a key player in biogeochemical cycling and soil health, we call for a well-designed but long pursuing study of soil hierarchy aggregate systems and a global unification of soil aggregate characterizing and parameterization. This should be considered as a core foundation of soil system science in the late 21th century.
  • ZHAO Zheng, FENG Xiao, LIU Cheng, CHEN Shuotong, LIU Zhiwei, WANG Yan, XIA Shaopan, LIU Xiaoyu, BIAN Rongjun, ZHANG Xuhui, CHENG Kun, ZHENG Jufeng, LI Lianqing, PAN Genxing
    Online available: 2024-08-04
    Abstract:With the increasing concerns for ecosystem functioning and services provided by soil, the study on soil aggregates has been increasingly a streamline discipline of modern soil science with the continuing updating of consensus and the methodology. In this review, we provide a holistic overview of understanding and characterizing soil aggregate system emerged for over last two decades. Evolution of concepts of soil aggregation, size fractionation and structural characterization is displayed, and separation and examination of the biophysical structure are discussed, as well as the final core scientific consensus of soil hierarchy system is synthesized. The main point of view of understanding soil aggregates include the followings. ① Soil aggregates are considered as the minimum micro-architecture and functional units, comprised of mineral particles, organic matter and (micro-) biome via their interaction and co-occurrence, thus noting their basic functional particles of soil in nature; ② The micro-spatial distribution of soil aggregates at different hierarchy levels results in the heterogeneity but functional diversity of a soil; ③ The final nature of soil aggregates could be envisaged of the embedded bio-pore system, created via the dual structure of aggregate and the associated pore system governed by the hierarchy aggregate system; ④ A soil aggregate system is generally represented by the three major hierarchies of aggregate size fractions including macroaggregates, microaggregates and silt/clay fraction, with the macroaggregates formed via binding microaggregates and/or silt-clay particles with coarse organic matter in a mode of pomegranate; ⑤ Wet sieving of field moist samples are recommended for preparation of soil aggregate separates despite of dry or moist sieving often used for samples from dry lands; ⑥ The μCT tomography technology is a powerful tool to quantify and visualize the pore system of soil aggregates, potentially linking to soil life processes and ecosystem services. Global cooperation is urged to develop unified protocol for fractioning, quantifying and visualizing the soil hierarchy system of aggregates of world soils. With the developments, the complexed soil system, particularly of the biodiversity of soil, can be explored at aggregate scale. Based on the updated understanding and characterization of soil aggregate system, nature-based solutions for global soil management policy and technical options will be provided for developing Earth sustainability.
  • Zhou Guangsheng, Zhou Mengzi, Zhou Li, Ji Yuhe
    Online available: 2024-06-21
    The paper summarizes recent progress in the observation, mechanism and model of landatmosphere interaction, and pointed out that the existing observational studies have not taken into account the effects of both the changes of terrestrial ecophysiology and atmospheric boundary layer on land-atmosphere fluxes. As a result, they restrict the parameterization of land surface process, parameter inversion from satellite remote sensing, and the operational application of land surface process model. In order to realize comprehensive understanding of land-atmosphere interaction and the development of land surface process models, it is pointed out that the studies on the effects of changes in terrestrial ecophysiology and atmospheric boundary layer on landatmosphere interactions and the operational application of land-surface process models are needed to be emphasized in the future, the main tasks to be concerned include: (1) three-dimensional observation of the landatmosphere interaction across the boundary layer, (2) application of multi-source data in the land-atmosphere interaction across the boundary layer, (3) development and operational application of land surface process model.
  • Li Zhenghong, Zhou Liang, Gao Hong, Wang Wenda, Wei Wei
    Online available: 2024-06-16
    The development of mountainous towns is limited by terrain and landforms, resulting in an urban expansion model dominated by new city construction. The geographical spatial manifestation of this model is that the construction of new cities is far from the main urban area, and the urban construction land gradually expands towards higher slopes (i.e., the gradient expansion of construction land). Although gradient expansion solves the problem of land resource scarcity in mountainous towns, it also increases the risk of geological disasters such as land subsidence. Exploring the law of gradient expansion and identifying disaster risks are paramount. The study selected three new cities with severe gradient expansion as typical case areas and used DEM to obtain the gradient expansion areas of the new areas from 2017 to 2022. Based on Sentinel-1A SAR data from 2016 to 2020, SBAS InSAR technology was used to obtain surface deformation information, revealing the spatial correlation between gradient expansion and land subsidence in the new areas. ① The results show that from 2017 to 2022, the gradient expansion phenomenon in Yan’an New Area, Liangjiang New Area, and Lanzhou New Area was significant, with gradient expansion areas accounting for 53.5%, 51.0%, and 45.2%, respectively. Yan'an New Area, which is most severely affected by terrain, has the highest proportion of gradient expansion areas, and the gradient expansion speed is consistent with the urban expansion speed trend. ② The maximum settlement velocities in Yan’an New Area, Liangjiang New Area, and Lanzhou New Area are 28mm/a, 30mm/a, and 29 mm/a, respectively. Settlement mostly occurs at the front of the expansion of the new area, and there are different scale gradient expansion areas around the settlement area. ③ The intensity of gradient expansion is positively correlated with the rate of land subsidence, and the clustering distribution of areas with high gradient expansion intensity and high ground subsidence rate indicates that urban gradient expansion accelerates the occurrence of land subsidence in the expansion area. The study has positive significance in exploring the correlation between urban gradient expansion and land subsidence and promoting sustainable development of mountainous cities.
  • GE Jiawang, TANG Xiaolong, ZHAO Xiaoming, ZHU XiaoMin, QI Kun
    Online available: 2024-06-16
    Previous sequence stratigraphy research mainly focuses on the two-dimensional seismic interpretation in its dipping direction, while the variations of sequence architectures in vertical provenance direction is the focus and difficulty of current research. This study takes the Late Pleistocene (0.125 Ma to today) shelf margin stratigraphic successions of the Qiongdongdong Basin as an typical example. The internal structure and combination characteristics of the systems tract units are established and identified, according the methods of typical stratal terminations, stratal stacking patterns, and shelf-edge migration trajectory. The systems tract in the studied sequence are classified from bottom to top, including the lowstand systems tract (LST), the transgressive systems tract (TST), the highstand systems tract (HST), and the falling stage systems tract (FSST). Among them, the part of the interface within the falling stage systems tract (WSTS) divides the FSST into early and late phases. The WSTS interface is the transitional surface for the positive to negative angle of the migration trajectory of the shelf-edge and for the stratal stacking transition from progradation to degradation. The stabilized and collapsed types of shelf-edge sequence architectures have developed in the Upper Pleistocene of the western part of the eastern Qiongdongnan Basin. With the change of relative sea-level, the stabilized shelf-edge mainly develops multi-phase shelf margin deltaic and deep-water fan deposits, while the collapsed shelf-edge mainly develops large-scale canyons and mass transport deposits. In response to the a short sea-level rising but a prominent falling cycle, the late Pleistocene shelf-edge sequences are composed of thin or undeveloped LST and TST units, and a thick FSST unit, whereas the active faults in the outer shelf locations increase the proportion of the HST unit in sequences. The pre-existing slope break geomorphology, fault activities and asymmetric sea-level fluctuation coevally lead to a diverse of the sequence architectures in the study area. The quantitative exploration of highfrequency sequence stratigraphic driving mechanisms is the future development trend of the Pleistocene stratigraphy, and this study provides a potential reference significance for the standardization of 3D sequence stratigraphic investigations.
  • YAN Shishuai, YAN Quanshu, SHI Xuefa, YUAN Long
    Online available: 2024-06-16
    In the global subduction systems, the subduction input includes normal oceanic slabs and some buoyant oceanic plateaus. Both of them will exert different geological effects on the subduction zone. Thus, performing the study on the interaction of oceanic plateau and subduction zone will be significant for understand the subduction zone geodynamics and the lateral accretion processes of continental crust. This study summarized the geological and geophysical characteristics of some typical oceanic plateaus that are currently closing to a subduction zone. These, combined with geological and geophysical features of adjacent subduction zones and some recent numerical simulation data, have been used to discuss the geological effects of the interaction between oceanic plateau and subduction zone. In the aspects of kinematics and geometry, buoyant oceanic plateaus can generally resist subduction, lead to subduction retreatment and reversal of subduction polarity, and thereby form a new subduction zone. The subduction process in some subduction zones will be terminated due to the arrival of oceanic plateaus, and the plateaus finally accrete to the mature arc/crustal margins and become part of continental crust. However, recent studies have shown that part of oceanic plateaus does not lead to the termination of the subduction process, but rather contribute to the occurrence of flat subduction, thereby result in tectonic shortening and thickening of the overlying plate in the subduction zone area, and the gradual migration of magmatic activity toward intraplate setting. Geochemically, these oceanic plateaus with enriched compositions will not only affect subduction zone lava geochemistry and the formation of hydrothermal deposits, but possibly contribute to the formation of mantle heterogeneity. Finally, this study put forward some key scientific issues on the interaction of oceanic plateaus with subduction zones, including the detailed crust/mantle structure of subduction zone, the geological and geochemical response of the island arc and backarc basin to the new subduction tectonic framework of “Oceanic plateau-Trench”, and quantitative correlations between the factors controlling whether plateaus are accreted or subducted remain unclear.