Resources Environment and Information Engineering

Phytocoenotic and Soil Signs of Current Global Warming on the Boreal Ecotone of the East-European Plain

Erland G. Kolomyts — Wed, 05 Nov 2025 12:26:17 +0800

The current global warming, which has been going on since the mid-70s of the last century, has been confirmed by numerous factual observations. A decrease in edaphic moisture should inevitably cause the replacement of forest-steppe vegetation by northern steppe vegetation, and the latter by dry steppe vegetation. At the same time, dark-gray forest soils and ordinary chernozems still remain in the position of northern relics during this short period. However, due to the increased humification of organic matter, the predominant type of humus changes from humate-fulvate to fulvate-humate. The successional trend in boreal phytocoenoses includes the replacement of oak and/or pine by spruce, with a decrease in forest density, as well as the nemoralization of the ground cover. On the Main Landscape Boundary of the Russian Plain, a three-dimensional local phytocoenotic ecotone is developing to a certain extent, with the strengthening of the boreal vegetation type in the tree layer and sub-boreal types in the undergrowth and ground cover. The increase in the range of inter-annual fluctuations in temperatures and precipitation over the last century indicates a clear increase in climate extremes. The frequency of extreme weather increases -- abnormally cold and abnormally warm, as well as excessively humid and extremely dry. All this contributes to the development of steppe ecosystems and has an extremely unfavorable effect on the state of oak groves, causing waves of their mass drying out even at the northern borders of their habitats. In general, on the territory of the Eastern European sub-continent, the “savannization” of mesophilic broad-leaved forests should begin, with their merging with a mosaic complex of sparse forests, meadows and steppes of the typical forest-steppe.

Seasonal Variations of Air Quality Measurements of Aba Metropolis and Suburbs Using MATLAB and ANN

Mon, 03 Nov 2025 11:29:25 +0800

Air pollution is a major life-threatening problem in industrialized and commercially vibrant cities like Aba metropolis and its suburbs in Abia State Nigeria. The study of selected air pollutants in these areas were performed using Matrix Laboratory (MATLAB) and Artificial Neural Networks (ANN) pollution models. Primary data was collected by conducting sampling analysis on air samples during dry and rainy seasons from 2024 and 2025. MATLAB and ANN pollution models were generated by integrating measurements and spatial databases using polynomial expressions. The MATLAB 7^th degree linear regression polynomial described the relationship between dependent and independent variables for the pollutants. The correlation methods verified that most MATLAB models could accurately predict or forecast concentration levels. Also the Artificial Neural Network demonstrated tracking of the actual plots on MATLAB. The analysis of variance (ANOVA) was also deployed which showed p < 0.05 for carbon monoxide (CO), nitrogen dioxide (NO₂), sulphur dioxide (SO₂), and total particulate matter (TPM), indicating that, there was a significant impact by the seasons on the concentrations of all gaseous pollutants under study(i.e. seasonal variations of concentration was highly affected by the two seasons). ANN was able to track all gaseous pollutants represented by MATLAB successfully above 50%.

Predictive Assessments of the Impact of Modern Global Warming on the Landscape-Zonal Conditions of the Volga River Basin

Erland G. Kolomyts — Thu, 30 Oct 2025 10:29:56 +0800

Prognostic landscape-ecological scenarios for the near future of the biosphere have been considered for the first time by taking a large region--the Volga River basin--as an example. The analysis was based on a method of regional landscape-ecological prognosis--developed by the author using discrete mathematics methods. Analytical and cartographic models of future landscape-ecological conditions (for 2050, 2075, and 2100) were obtained. The mechanisms of shifts in the mosaic structure of vegetation, soils, and landscapes have been revealed in the study area under different disturbance scenarios of the climatic system--scenarios anticipated in the foreseeable future (by the end of the 21^st century). Forthcoming anthropogenic warming, accompanied by an excessive increase in surface runoff, will occur at the expense of a relative decrease in evapotranspiration, and particularly in groundwater flow. A progressively intensifying thermo-arid bioclimatic trend is predicted, with a general northward shift of zonal boundaries and corresponding changes in the soil water regime and vegetation cover structure. The prognostic models show the convergence of phytocoenoses into new zonal vegetation types.

Investigation of Atmospheric Particulates in Two Raingauged Stations, Aba and Umuahia Meteropolis Nigeria Using Artificial Neural Network and Fuzzy Logic

Mon, 27 Oct 2025 10:56:29 +0800

This study conducts a thorough and multifaceted analysis of atmospheric particulate matter within the urban conglomerates of Aba and Umuahia, two prominent metropolitan areas in Abia State, Nigeria, both undergoing significant industrial and economic growth. Leveraging on advanced artificial neural network (ANN) and fuzzy logic framework, rainwater samples were meticulously collected from strategically located rain gauge stations, positioned at an optimal elevation of three meters over a carefully designed ten-week sampling period. These rainwater samples were employed to accurately quantify particulate matter concentrations, enabling the assessment of spatial and temporal variations, along with the broader atmospheric deposition dynamics. Results revealed considerable disparities in particulate concentrations, with Aba displaying significantly higher levels than Umuahia, likely attributable to heightened anthropogenic sources such as industrial emissions, vehicular exhaust, and urban activities. The mean particulate concentrations were also computed for both locations, yielding deeper insights into regional atmospheric chemistry. Furthermore, graphical analysis demonstrated an inverse relationship between rainfall frequency and particulate loading, corroborating the hypothesis of precipitation-induced atmospheric cleansing. The effectiveness of ANN based and fuzzy logic environmental models are further validated, underscoring their critical role in forecasting pollutant dispersion and facilitating sustainable urban air quality management policies.

Seasonal Variations of Air Quality Measures in Three Local Government Areas of Imo State, Nigeria with Chemometric Models

Thu, 16 Oct 2025 00:00:00 +0800

Geographic Information System (GIS) and Matrix Laboratory (MATLAB) Models were used to study air quality in parts of Imo State. Primary data were obtained by conducting relevant analysis using standard instrumental methods on open-air rainwater samples collected in the dry and the rainy seasons for two consecutive years. GIS showed that the pollutants were present throughout the year. Artificial Neural Network (ANN) of MATLAB 2015 was used to represent data with regards to pollutant concentration in all the areas considered. Analysis of Variance (ANOVA) and the Multi-Comparative plots showed that all the Criteria pollutants except CO were affected by seasonal change. All the pollutants exceeded the WHO, NAAQS and FEPA Standards with the Air Quality Index (AQI) indicating poor air quality with grade E for all the areas studied. Hot spot locations appeared more for SO₂, PM₁₀, in the dry seasons while the average concentration of CO showed the same trend with NO₂with higher levels during the rainy seasons. Therefore, the findings from this research provides knowledge of patterns and trends of air pollutant dispersion and other reliable information that could be useful to the Government, relevant pollution regulatory agencies and the general public for better proactive decision making and pollution control in Imo State.

Groundwater Resources in Muthanna Governorate, South of Iraq

Hussein Ilaibi Zamil Al-Sudani — Wed, 15 Oct 2025 00:00:00 +0800

Muthanna Governorate, located in southern Iraq, is the second-largest governorate in the country by area. The unconfined aquifer was studied by identifying the geological formations that form this aquifer. This research aims to use stratigraphic succession to establish geological correlations and identify formations that serve as groundwater aquifers. It also aims to identify and isolate the geological formations comprising the unconfined aquifer, as well as to assess its hydrogeological characteristics and groundwater hydrochemical properties. Geological maps of Muthanna Governorate and data from deep wells as well as fifty-nine drilled wells in the study area were used to prepare a series of geological sections. These sections provide valuable insights into the areas of each geological formation that contribute to the unconfined aquifer. Five main zones were identified, where the unconfined aquifer was sometimes considered an isolated geological formation (e.g., the Umm Er-Radhuma or Dammam formations) and sometimes consisted of a succession of two formations (e.g., the Euphrates and Dammam formations, or the Dammam and Umm Er-Radhuma formations). The results showed that the average hydraulic parameters—namely, thickness, total depth, transmissivity, and water table—were 68.7 meters, 151.5 meters, 133 m²/day, and 162.6 meters above sea level, respectively. The groundwater salinity distribution map indicated several locations with high salinity values, which are attributed to the different lithologies forming the aquifer as well as the varied environmental depositional conditions of the geological formations that compose it. Additionally, the groundwater moves continuously from recharge areas toward discharge areas in three directions. Two primary salinity types were identified: calcium sulphate and sodium sulphate. The salinity, reflected by cation and anion concentrations, caused groundwater contamination in some areas of Muthanna's unconfined aquifer due to increasing concentrations. Consequently, five groundwater samples were suitable for human consumption, nine were appropriate for agricultural use, and forty-nine were suitable for animal use.

Physicochemical Assessment of Omambala and Ezu Rivers in Anambra State, Nigeria, Using Artificial Neural Networks and Fuzzy Logic

Mon, 21 Jul 2025 00:00:00 +0800

This study analytically assesses the water quality of the Omambala and Ezu Rivers, both of which are subject to significant anthropogenic influences and surface runoff, resulting in pronounced pollution. The primary objective was to assess the water quality using the Water Quality Index (WQI) methodology, focusing on both physicochemical parameters and toxic elements. A total of thirty water samples were collected, fifteen from each river, at three strategically selected sampling locations. Physicochemical analyses were conducted following the American Public Health Association (APHA) standard methods, and the findings were evaluated against the permissible limits established by the World Health Organization (WHO) and the Nigerian Standard for Drinking Water Quality (NSDWQ). Results revealed that both rivers are heavily polluted, with WQI values indicating severe degradation: 568.269 for River Omambala and 672.99 for River Ezu, the latter demonstrating a higher level of pollution. Conversely, the assessment of potentially toxic elements yielded WQI values of 423.67 for River Omambala and 289.93 for River Ezu, suggesting greater contamination in River Omambala regarding these elements. Notably, parameters such as pH, temperature, dissolved oxygen, total dissolved solids, total hardness, chlorides, and sulfates fell below NSDWQ permissible limits, while electrical conductivity, biochemical oxygen demand, turbidity, and nitrates exceeded recommended thresholds for both rivers. Elevated concentrations of Arsenic and Iron were observed, posing additional health risks. These findings underscore the critical influence of anthropogenic activities on water quality. Comprehensive management strategies, including pollution mitigation measures and community engagement, are urgently recommended to restore the ecological integrity of these rivers. Further research is warranted to explore the long-term impacts of observed pollution and the effectiveness of implemented interventions.

Hydrogeological Conditions and Groundwater Geochemistry of Badra-Zurbatia Area in Wasit Governorate, East of Iraq

Hussein Ilaibi Zamil Al-Sudani — Tue, 15 Jul 2025 17:48:01 +0800

Groundwater is vital for domestic and agricultural purposes, particularly in rapidly urbanizing regions worldwide. The area between Badra and Zurbatia, which is located in Wasit Governorate, in the eastern side of Iraq, was investigated during the fieldwork in 2024. The area is important in terms of agriculture and poultry, and livestock husbandry. This research aims to evaluate the groundwater resources in the study area. The research will focus on evaluating and determining the hydrogeological and hyro-geochemical of the confined aquifer, which has been exploited largely in the last decade. (30) Wells were inventoried during the field study and used to demonstrate the hydrogeological conditions and geochemistry of the groundwater aquifer. The results showed that the confined aquifer consists of quaternary deposits and pebbly sandstone layers. The mean thickness, water permeability (transmissivity), and maximum yields of the aquifer were 46 meters, 112 square meters/day, and 655 cubic meters/day of maximum yields, respectively. The distribution map of groundwater salinity demonstrates a regular decrease in concentrations towards the southern part of the area due to groundwater recharge from infiltrated surface water to the unconfined aquifer, according to the hydraulic connection between the confined and the unconfined aquifers. The origin of groundwater is continental, with brackish to saline types. The calcium sulphate is recorded as the main dominant type of groundwater. The utilization of groundwater was mainly for animal purposes.

Groundwater Utilization and Water Quality in Khanaqin District, Diyala Governorate, Northeast of Iraq

Hussein Ilaibi Zamil Al-Sudani — Thu, 29 May 2025 15:38:55 +0800

Groundwater is often considered the main source of freshwater in many places worldwide. Due to their importance and susceptibility to depletion and contamination, efficient management of groundwater resources is needed. Groundwater quality depends on many factors, including geology, source water quality, and land use type. The present study dealt with the hydrochemistry of groundwater resources in the Khanaqin district, which is located in Diyala Governorate in the northeast of Iraq. The exposed geological formations in Khanaqin district range in age from Upper Jurassic up to Recent. Quaternary deposits, Bai Hassan and Injana formations were the two main types of groundwater aquifers, unconfined and confined. 68 well samples were used in hydrochemical analysis. The groundwater sampling included both aquifers in the area. The physicochemical parameters showed that the groundwater of aquifers is moderately brackish to saline. A strong linear relationship between the salinity (TDS) and electrical conductivity (EC) was obtained in the studied area. The correlation coefficient (R) was 97.73%. The salinity distribution showed a large area in the northeastern and southwestern parts of the studied area where the salinity decreased below 1000 PPM. The central and eastern parts of the studied area showed a significant increase in salinity concentration. Two polluted locations were located in the area of study with salinity concentration over 2000 PPM. The origin of groundwater was continental with a moderate brackish to saline type. 53% of the two major types of groundwater were determined in the studied area, calcium sulphate and calcium bicarbonate, with 18 samples for each one. The utilization of groundwater in the area indicates that thirty-six samples of groundwater could be used for human purposes, while fifty-eight and sixty-eight samples were utilized to be used for agriculture and animal purposes, respectively.

Assessment of Groundwater Resources and Hydro-Geochemical Characteristics of Mandali Basin - East Iraq

Hussein Ilaibi Zamil Al-Sudani — Fri, 16 May 2025 00:00:00 +0800

Groundwater is an essential natural water resource that supplies the population for various domestic, agricultural, and industrial uses. Mandali Basin, located in Diyala Governorate, in the eastern side of Iraq, was investigated during the fieldwork in 2024. The results showed that the unconfined aquifer consists of interbedded of Bai Hassan formation and Quaternary deposits. The average thickness of this aquifer was 46 meters, while the average water permeability (transmissivity) was 112 square meters/day, with 655 cubic meters/day of maximum yields. The direction of groundwater movement begins from the north-eastern part towards the south-western part in the studied area. The distribution map of salinity of groundwater demonstrates increasing values on the western side of the area. The physical and chemical parameters indicate a continental origin of the groundwater, as it is brackish to saline water. The calcium sulfate was the dominant groundwater type. The groundwater is mainly useful for livestock and irrigation purposes, while some samples indicate its use for human benefits. The area between Mandali and Qazaniya towns reflects a qualified location to increase well drilling, where the aquifer thickness, transmissivity, and maximum yields increase, while salinity decreases.