Miracle-dz/UniFAR-FTUs huggingface dataset:
Synthesis and Sensing Applications of Fluorescent 3-Cinnamoyl Coumarins

We have synthesized two novel fluorescent 3-(4-diethylaminocinnamoyl) coumarins that exhibit fluorescence quenching upon exposure to a nerve agent simulant, diethylchlorophosphate (DCP), providing a basis for rapid and sensitive DCP chemosensing. Furthermore, these coumarin derivatives display two-photon fluorescence upon illumination with near-infrared laser pulses and their two-photon (TP) absorption cross-section was evaluated. The potential for TP bio-imaging of these compounds was investigated by their cellular uptake in HeLa cells by TP confocal microscopy.
Testing the Cretaceous greenhouse hypothesis using glassy foraminiferal calcite from the core of the Turonian tropics on Demerara Rise

Glassy Turonian foraminifera preserved in clay-rich sediments from the western tropical Atlantic yield the warmest equivalent ? 18O sea-surface temperatures (SSTs) yet reported for the entire Cretaceous-Cenozoic. We estimate Turonian SSTs that were at least as warm as (conservative mean ~30 °C) to significantly warmer (warm mean ~33 °C) than those in the region today. However, if independent evidence for high middle Cretaceous pCO2 is reliable and resulted in greater isotopic fractionation between seawater and calcite because of lower sea-surface pH, our conservative and warm SST estimates would be even higher (32 and 36 °C, respectively). Our new tropical SSTs help reconcile geologic data with the predictions of general circulation models that incorporate high Cretaceous pCO2 and lend support to the hypothesis of a Cretaceous greenhouse. Our data also strengthen the case for a Turonian age for the Cretaceous thermal maximum and highlight a 20–40 m.y. mismatch between peak Cretaceous-Cenozoic global warmth and peak inferred tectonic CO2 production. We infer that this mismatch is either an artifact of a hidden Turonian pulse in global ocean-crust cycling or real evidence of the influence of some other factor on atmospheric CO2 and/or SSTs. A hidden pulse in crust cycling would explain the timing of peak Cretaceous-Cenozoic sea level (also Turonian), but other factors are needed to explain high-frequency (~10–100 k.y.) instability in middle Cretaceous SSTs reported elsewhere.
RFID Systems in Libraries: Extending the

The operation and management of libraries require carrying out numerous repetitive, meticulous, both labour and time intensive activities. To increase the effectiveness and efficiency, many libraries are choosing to automate most of their library management activities. Libraries are now deploying the Radio Frequency Identification (RFID) technology to replace bar code systems for item identification and item tracking. The available literature houses evidences that the research on RFID related issues is largely concentrated on technical, organizational and implementation aspects, and comparatively lesser attention has been invested in understanding the use aspect of such library management systems. This article thereby aims at gaining an understanding into the factors that influence the use of RFID systems in the library context by empirically testing the relevant constructs from the extended TAM model. A questionnaire based survey approach was employed for collecting the relevant data from 197 respondents, who were recorded as the active users of a RFID based library system. Findings from this study suggested that perceived usefulness and system quality positively influence the user attitude, and user attitude and system quality significantly influence the use of the RFID services. The paper concludes with outlining the salient points, limitations, and future research directions.
Usability of noise-free daily satellite-observed green–red vegetation index values for monitoring ecosystem changes in Borneo

We examined the usability of daily green–red vegetation index (GRVI) observations from the Terra and Aqua Moderate Resolution Imaging Spectroradiometer satellite on cloud-free days for monitoring ecosystem changes in Bornean tropical forests at a 500 m spatial resolution over 11 years (2003–2013). The number of observational days of cloud-free GRVI data in the southwest monsoon period (May–October; 1–5 days/month) was greater than that in the northeast monsoon period (November–April; 0–2 days/month). Spatial variation in the observation frequency was noticed, with Terra (morning) and Aqua (afternoon) data showing different geographic distribution patterns of cloud-free data. The observation frequency in the western Kalimantan mountains (Sarawak and Sabah) was 1–2 days/month greater than that in the eastern mountains (Kalimantan). The quality of cloud-free GRVI data was validated by using sky images taken at the same time as the satellite observations and canopy surface images in a tropical rainforest. In oil palm and acacia plantations and peatlands, which were mainly distributed in coastal regions of Sarawak and West and Central Kalimantan, the cloud-free daily GRVI value fell below zero owing to deforestation and forest degradation caused by forest fire and increased with replanting and vegetation recovery. These results indicate that daily cloud-free GRVI data from multiple satellites collected at different times of the day are required for accurate monitoring of intra- and interannual phenological variation and forest degradation attributed to changes in climatic conditions and deforestation caused by human activities in tropical ecosystems.
A comparison of present and doubled CO2 climates and feedbacks simulated by three general circulation models

The present and doubled CO2 equilibrium climates simulated by slab ocean versions of the atmospheric general circulation models from the Commonwealth Scientific and Industrial Research Organisation (CSIRO, Mark 1 and Mark 2) and from the Bureau of Meteorology Research Centre (BMRC) are examined, with the aim of explaining the large variation in mean warming (4.8°C, 4.3°C, and 2.1°C). The present climates are compared firstly with observations. A graphical display of nondimensional measures of local and mean errors is used. For 15 quantities the models produce broadly similar skill, which indicates that such an evaluation is of limited use as a validation of these models for climate change prediction. Comparison of the two climates indicates that for temperature, snow/ice cover, and water column (but not necessarily other fields) the typical magnitudes of local changes are in rough proportion to the mean warming. For tropical precipitation, however, the BMRC model shows a similar sensitivity to CO2 doubling as do the CSIRO models. A standard diagnostic feedback analysis shows that the Mark 1 model has stronger albedo, water vapor, and cloud feedbacks than the BMRC model. A novel regional net feedback analysis is then applied to all three models. Feedbacks for the snow/ice region and clear-sky and cloud forcing components of the snow-free region indicate similar intermodel differences to those from the diagnostic approach. The feedbacks are examined in relation to the simulated climates and model parameterizations. As the application of the regional method requires only standard climatological fields, it is proposed as a convenient analysis tool in further model comparisons.
Automatic ultrasound diagnosis of thyroid nodules: a combination of deep learning and KWAK TI-RADS

Objective. There has been a considerable amount of computer-aided diagnosis (CAD) methods highlighted in the field of ultrasonic examination (USE) of thyroid nodules. However, few researches focused on the automatic risk classification, which was the basis for determining whether fine needle aspiration (FNA) was needed. The aim of this work was to implement automatic risk level assessment of thyroid nodules. Approach. Firstly, 1862 cases of thyroid nodules with the results of USE and FNA were collected as the dataset. Then, an improved U-Net++ model was utilized for segmenting thyroid nodules in ultrasound images automatically. Finally, the segmentation result was imported into a multi-task convolutional neural network (MT-CNN), the design of which was based on the clinical guideline called KWAK TI-RADS. Apart from the category of benign and malignant, the MT-CNN also exported the classification result of four malignant features, solid component (SC), hypoechogenicity or marked hypoechogenicity (HMH), microlobulated or irregular margin (MIM), microcalcification (MC), which were used for counting the risk level in KWAK TI-RADS. Main results. The performance of the improved U-Net++ was evaluated on our test set, including 302 cases. The Dice coefficient and intersection over union reached 0.899, 0.816, respectively. The classification accuracy rates of SC, HMH, MIM, MC, were 94.5%, 92.8%, 86.1%, 88.9%, while the false positive (FP) rate was 6.0%, 5.6%, 10.6%, 12.9% respectively. As for the category of benign and malignant, the precision and recall rates were 93.7% and 94.4%. Significance. The proposed CAD method showed favourable performance in the diagnosis of thyroid nodules. Compared with other methods, it could provide reports closer to clinical practice for doctors.
Lithosphere tectonics and thermo-mechanical properties: an integrated modeling approach for EGS exploration in Europe

For geothermal exploration and production of enhanced geothermal systems (EGS) knowledge of the thermo-mechanical signature of the lithosphere and crust is important to obtain critical constraints for the crustal stress field and basement temperatures. The stress and temperature field in Europe is subject to strong spatial variations which can be linked to Polyphase extensional and compressional reactivation of the lithosphere, in different modes of deformation. The development of innovative combinations of numerical and analogue modeling techniques is key to thoroughly understand the spatial and temporal variations in crustal stress and temperature. In this paper we present an overview of our advancement developing and applying analogue and numerical thermo-mechanical models to quantitatively asses the interplay of lithosphere dynamics and basin (de)formation. Field studies of kinematic indicators and numerical modeling of present-day and paleo-stress fields in selected areas have yielded new constraints on the causes and the expression of intraplate stress fields in the lithosphere, driving basin (de)formation. The actual basin response to intraplate stress is strongly affected by the rheological structure of the underlying lithosphere, the basin geometry, fault dynamics and interplay with surface processes. Integrated basin studies show that rheological layering and strength of the lithosphere plays an important role in the spatial and temporal distribution of stress-induced vertical motions, varying from subtle faulting to basin reactivation and large wavelength patterns of lithospheric folding, demonstrating that sedimentary basins are sensitive recorders to the intraplate stress field. The long lasting memory of the lithosphere, in terms of lithospheric scale weak zones, appears to play a far more important role in basin formation and reactivation than hitherto assumed. A better understanding of the 3-D linkage between basin formation and basin reactivation is, therefore, an essential step in research that aims at linking lithospheric forcing and upper mantle dynamics to crustal vertical motions and stress, and their effect on sedimentary systems and heat flow. Vertical motions in basins can become strongly enhanced, through coupled processes of surface erosion/sedimentation and lower crustal flow. Furthermore patterns of active thermal attenuation by mantle plumes can cause a significant spatial and modal redistribution of intraplate deformation and stress, as a result of changing patterns in lithospheric strength and rheological layering. Novel insights from numerical and analogue modeling aid in quantitative assessment of basin and basement histories and shed new light on tectonic interpretation, providing helpful constraints for geothermal exploration and production, including understanding and predicting crustal stress and basin and basement heat flow.
Implementation of quantitative bushfire risk analysis in a GIS environment

Bushfires pose a significant threat to lives and property. Fire management authorities aim to minimise this threat by employing risk-management procedures. This paper proposes a process of implementing, in a Geographic Information System environment, contemporary integrated approaches to bushfire risk analysis that incorporate the dynamic effects of bushfires. The system is illustrated with a case study combining ignition, fire behaviour and fire propagation models with climate, fuel, terrain, historical ignition and asset data from Hobart, Tasmania, and its surroundings. Many of the implementation issues involved with dynamic risk modelling are resolved, such as increasing processing efficiency and quantifying probabilities using historical data. A raster-based, risk-specific bushfire simulation system is created, using a new, efficient approach to model fire spread and a spatiotemporal algorithm to estimate spread probabilities. We define a method for modelling ignition probabilities using representative conditions in order to manage large fire weather datasets. Validation of the case study shows that the system can be used efficiently to produce a realistic output in order to assess the risk posed by bushfire. The model has the potential to be used as a reliable near-real-time tool for assisting fire management decision making.
Long‐term observation of nitrate radicals at the Tor Station, Kap Arkona (Rügen)

Long-term observation of the trace gases NO 2 , ozone, and nitrate radicals (NO 3 ) at a rural site in the Baltic Sea (near Kap Arkona, island Rugen) using differential optical absorption spectroscopy (DOAS) are presented here. The time series of these species cover more than 14 months of data. Additionally, meteorological data were taken from the Deutscher Wetterdienst station at Kap Arkona. The average nighttime NO 3 concentration was determined at 7.8 ppt. Maximum lifetimes of more than 5000 s were observed, but average NO 3 lifetimes are close to 250 s. As nitrate radicals are expected to play an important role in the nonphotochemical conversion of NO x to HNO 3 , long-term observations offer a key for investigation of possible sink mechanisms of NO 3 molecules mediated by both homogeneous and heterogeneous reactions. Analysis of the data shows that the NO 3 lifetime is inversely proportional to the NO 2 concentration, thus suggesting that the removal of N 2 O 5 is actually the dominating NO 3 loss process. The mean N 2 O 5 concentration from this long-term measurement was calculated at 1 ppb with an N 2 O 5 lifetime between 1000s and 20000s covering 90 % of the data.
Integrated river basin management: A case for collaboration

Abstract Integrated river basin management (IRBM) is an approach that has been interpreted in a number of different ways during the last 100 years. Current support for IRBM is based on a ‘myth’ of inter‐agency co‐ordination. However, increasing complexity and uncertainty in river basin systems has created ‘wicked’ or ‘messy’ land and water management problems. The limited capacity of state institutions to deal effectively with such conditions suggests that the current ‘myth’ must be reformed and that a more powerful system‐response capability founded on inter‐organisational collaboration should be developed. The case for a collaborative institutional approach to IRBM is examined with reference to the Fraser Basin Council in British Columbia, Canada.
Classification and Assessment of Aridity Over Pakistan Provinces (1960-2009)

Due to rapid growth of population, massive deforestation and anthropogenic activities, noticeable change in climate conditions is being observed in Pakistan. Increased aridity due to climate change is a growing environmental problem of the agricultural country like Pakistan. It is essential to assess and monitor aridity to combat the probable land degradation and drought desertification. Identification of arid and semi arid regions on climatic basis is the first essential step in any project of land reclamation for agricultural and other purposes. A geographic information system is used in this paper for the assessment of aridity in Pakistan from long term climatic data of fifty years (1960-2009) collected from fifty four stations situated in the country. In the delineation of climatic zones and delimitation of their boundaries, five well known aridity models viz. De Martonne Aridity index, Erinc Aridity index, Thornthwaite Precipitation Effectiveness index, UNESCO Aridity index and Thornthwaite Moisture index are utilized for this purpose. The study shows that southern parts of the country are dry and more vulnerable to drought while the northern parts have variable types of climate. Almost 75 to 85% of the total area of the country is arid in which most part lies in the south while less than 10% area is humid lies in the north of the country. This study will be a good predicator for agricultural scientist, agronomist and hydrologist to plan according the climate of the region. DOI: http://dx.doi. org/10.3126/ije.v3i4. 11728 International Journal of Environment Volume-3, Issue-4, Sep-Nov 2014 Page : 24-35
New Tools Target Oil Quality Sweetspots in Viscous Oil Accumulations

Shallow oilfields frequently contain oils that not only have low API gravity and high viscosities, but are also highly variable in terms of these properties. It is thus crucial to gather sufficient oil quality data to sample a statistical cross section of the oil population. This paper describes how API gravity and dead oil viscosity can be predicted from geochemical parameters that can be measured on core or sidewall core samples, thus allowing oil samples to be accessed with greater spatial coverage than could reasonably be achieved with conventional fluid sampling. This technique is demonstrated on cored wells from the large Schrader Bluff viscous oil accumulation in Milne Point, Alaska. An oil can inherit a particular API gravity or viscosity from a variety of causes. Consequently, spatial variations in such bulk oil properties can be difficult to map empirically simply by contouring data, because more than one controlling factor may be operative. A major step forward in fluid mapping is to identify and quantify these controls, and map them. In Schrader Bluff the controls were discovered to be degree of biodegradation, and the presence of an in-mixed second charge of (light) oil. Variations in these processes can be mapped withmore » a much greater degree of certainty than the bulk oil properties, and the individual maps combined to predict gravity and viscosity. Further, conceptual models exist for these processes, opening the possibility of model-driven prediction of oil properties and sweetspots in areas away from well control. « less
Miocene to present activity along the Red River fault, China, in the context of continental extrusion, upper-crustal rotation, and lower-crustal flow

Detailed mapping of field relationships along the Red River fault reveals information about the distribution and magnitude of slip along the fault, about its interactions with other regional fault systems, and the relationship between river incision and growth of the eastern margin of the Tibetan Plateau. The Red River fault is complex, consisting of up to four strands, and is dominated by right-lateral strike-slip displacement. Evidence for an extensional component of displacement is strongest along the northern part of the fault, and decreases to the southeast, to zero southeast of a major bend in the fault. Results of this study indicate dextral displacement on the Red River fault is probably at least ∼40 km, 15–16 km of which predates incision of the Red River in Pliocene time or later, and probably also predates plateau growth and development of other regional fault systems. Long-term average slip rate on the Red River fault is a minimum of ∼5 mm/yr. However, regional active tectonics are characterized by rotation of the upper crust around the eastern Himalayan syntaxis, bounded to the east by the Xianshuihe-Xiaojiang fault system, which deflects but does not cut the Red River fault. The distributed nature of the Xianshuihe-Xiaojiang fault system as it approaches the Red River fault is important for accommodating shearing across the strong crustal anisotropy formed by the Red River fault and Ailao Shan shear zone. The Red River fault appears to terminate in the extending Dali fault system in northwest Yunnan. Pliocene surface uplift, river incision, and rotation around the eastern Himalayan syntaxis are inconsistent with the pre-Pliocene displacement on the Red River fault and lateral extrusion along the Ailao Shan shear zone advocated by the “extrusion model. ” This suggests a significant change in crustal conditions on the southeast margin of the Tibetan Plateau in Pliocene time, possibly the result of lower-crustal flow.
On the sheet‐like nature of 150 km (F1) radar echoes

The so‐called 150 km (or F1) echoes are shown to arise from field‐aligned irregularities (FAI) that are embedded in a sheet‐like region. Using a 49.92 MHz radar on Christmas Island, which has an antenna beam directed toward geographic east at a zenith angle of 29.5°, high‐resolution Doppler‐velocity variations within the radar scattering volume are used to infer that the sheet‐like region could have both tilt and curvature. This finding is used to infer that plasma density (N) must be enhanced within the sheet‐like region, and that FAI could be generated by an interchange instability, driven by a vertical electric field or a zonal neutral wind that acts on the horizontal component of the gradient in N. How tilted sheet‐like structures could form in the F1 region is discussed.
Mechanical properties of metastable glacial till before and after water‐induced compaction

The mechanical properties of metastable soils have been approached from different backgrounds by civil engineers and soil scientists, with the main focus being on water-induced self-compaction rates. This study was conducted to determine the rebound-recompression properties of metastable soil before and after wetting and to study the effect of water-induced compaction on the mechanical stability depending on the overburden pressure. Rebound and recompression properties were measured with oedometer tests using sieved sandy loam, taken from a nonweathered Saalian glacial till layer, as the metastable test soil. The mechanical stability (preconsolidation load) of the dry and wetted soil was derived mathematically from recompression data after the test soil was unloaded. Void-ratio changes during unloading and reloading were on a low level (Δe = 0.03). Rebound and recompression rates of the dry samples increased with load, whereas the void-ratio change was twofold higher during recompression. Rebound rates of the wetted samples tended to decrease with load, while the recompression rates remained constant. Preconsolidation load calculated for the dry samples overestimated the simulated overburden pressure, whereas the wetted samples showed a high congruence. In both cases, the point of greatest curvature estimated in the earlier step of deviation gave values that were more realistic to the loads from which the unloading started. Our results indicate that both dry compaction and water-induced compaction induce primarily plastic deformation. Furthermore, we found that in both the dry and wetted state the mechanical stability of the soil reflecting the overburden pressure remained constant.