Miracle-dz/UniFAR-FTUs huggingface dataset:
Seismic structure of Kuwait

SUMMARY We have used data from the Kuwait National Seismic Network (KNSN) to estimate the seismic structure of Kuwait using a limited amount of seismic data. First, we made surface wave dispersion measurements and calculated receiver functions from the relatively small amount of data available from the broad-band station, KBD. Models were derived from the joint inversion of teleseismic receiver functions and Rayleigh and Love fundamental mode surface wave group velocity dispersion. While both surface waves and receiver functions by themselves can be used to estimate lithospheric structure, we have successfully combined the two to reduce non-uniqueness in estimates based on the individual data sets. The resulting KUW1 model features a thick (8 km) sedimentary cover and crustal thickness of 45 km. Crustal velocities below the sedimentary cover are consistent with global averages for stable platforms. We infer upper-mantle velocities (7.84 km s ‐1 P-wave velocity; 4.40 km s ‐1 S-wave velocity) that are slightly lower than expected for a stable platform. In comparison with other crustal structure estimates for the Arabian platform to the west, the crust is thicker and the mantle is slower in Kuwait. This is consistent with the overall tectonic trends of the region that find increasing crustal thickness between the divergent plate boundary at the Red Sea and the convergent plate boundary at the Zagros Mts, as well as slow mantle velocities beneath this nearby orogenic zone. The resulting model fits the traveltimes of regional phases (Pn, Pg, Sn and Lg). Independent inversion of local earthquake traveltimes recorded by KNSN (allowing for event hypocentre relocation) results in a remarkably similar velocity structure, providing confidence that the joint inversion of receiver functions and surface wave group velocities can impose accurate constraints on crustal structure for local event location and network operations. Relocation of events in Kuwait improves the clustering of events and results in shallower hypocentres.
A staged genetic algorithm for tomographic inversion of seismic refraction data

ABSTRACT A genetic algorithm has been developed to tomographically construct the sub-surface velocity distribution using first-arrival seismic refraction data. The performance of the genetic algorithm is improved by the inclusion of a ‘zooming’ technique able to perform a staged subspace search in the higher dimensional solution space. This allows the complexity of the model defining the solution to be progressively increased during the inversion and results in an increase in the speed and accuracy with which a solution can be obtained. The procedure has been tested with both synthetic and model data. The method proved able to correctly recover the geometry and velocity structure of a non-planar refractor and the overlying lower velocity layer without the need of any ‘a priori’ information.
Improved Forecasts of the Diurnal Cycle in the Tropics Using Multiple Global Models. Part II: Asian Summer Monsoon

Abstract The diurnal mode of the Asian summer monsoon during active and break periods is studied using four versions of the Florida State University (FSU) global spectral model (GSM). These versions differ in the formulation of cloud parameterization schemes in the model. Observational-based estimates show that there exists a divergent circulation at 200 hPa over the Asian monsoon region in the diurnal time scale that peaks at 1200 local solar time (LST) during break monsoon and at 1800 LST during active monsoon. A circulation in the opposite direction is seen near the surface. This circulation loop is completed by vertical ascending/descending motion over the monsoon domain and its surroundings. This study shows that global models have large phase and amplitude errors for the 200-hPa velocity potential and vertical pressure velocity over the monsoon region and its surroundings. Construction of a multimodel superensemble could reduce these errors substantially out to five days in advance. This was on acco.
Low latitude 2‐day planetary wave impact on austral polar mesopause temperatures: revealed by a January diminution in PMSE above Davis, Antarctica

A new characteristic of the austral summer polar mesopause as revealed by ground‐based radar and satellite temperature measurements is reported, that is linked to inter‐annual variability of the low‐latitude easterly wind jet. Four consecutive seasons of polar mesosphere summer echoes (PMSE) and mesosphere temperature observations above Davis, Antarctica (68.6°S) show a mid‐January diminution in PMSE occurrence rate that coincides with a minor mesopause warming of several degrees. Spectral analyses of PMSE, Aura Microwave Limb Sounder (MLS) temperatures and radar meridional winds show the presence of ∼4–5‐day planetary waves (PWs) throughout the austral summer in the polar upper mesosphere together with enhanced ∼2‐day PW activity from mid‐January to mid‐February. Analysis of MLS temperatures show that the ∼2‐day PWs have zonal wavenumbers (S) with both westward (S = −2, −3) and eastward (S = +2, +3) components. Although displaying some inter‐annual variation in the peak onset time, the mid‐January mesopause warming coincides with a weakening of the equatorward meridional wind above Davis and enhancement of low‐latitude 2‐day PW activity.
The New Zealand National Seismograph Network

### Tectonic Settings & Seismicity in New Zealand New Zealand's active tectonics are dominated by the oblique convergence of the Pacific plate and the Australian plate, which produces earthquakes, volcanoes, active geological deformation, and steep terrain. The tectonic setting (Figure 1) makes New Zealand one of the most seismically active countries in the world with more than 15,000 earthquakes ( ML ≥ 2) located per year (http://www.geonet.org.nz/earthquake/). Shallow earthquakes (depth <40 km) cluster in a band that extends along the east coast of the North Island above the Hikurangi subduction zone, through the western South Island in proximity to the Alpine fault, to the southernmost tip of the South Island above the Puysegur subduction zone (Figure 2A). Another band of shallow seismicity maps the Taupo volcanic zone (TVZ), and the cluster beneath the western part of the central North Island is associated with the Cape Egmont fault zone and Egmont Volcano (Mount Taranaki). Figure 2B shows the deep seismicity (≥40 km) of New Zealand. The deep earthquakes beneath the North Island and the upper part of the South Island define the dipping Benioff zone within the subducting Pacific plate. In the Fiordland region the deep seismicity is associated with the subduction of the Australian plate beneath the Pacific plate. Detailed overviews of the seismicity of New Zealand can be found in Robinson (1986), Reyners (1989), Anderson and Webb (1994), and Eberhart-Phillips (1995). ### The GeoNet Project The New Zealand GeoNet is a strongly integrated data collection and analysis system consisting of national and regional-scale sensor networks. In 2001, GNS Science, a New Zealand government-owned research institute, received funding from the New Zealand Earthquake Commission (EQC), a New Zealand government mandated natural disasters insurer, to develop GeoNet as a non-profit “public good” initiative to enhance New Zealand's ability to respond to and prepare for natural hazards such as earthquakes, volcanic eruptions, tsunamis, …
Fast and accurate automatic SAR image registration using seven invariant moments and improved chain coding of region boundaries

This paper deals with subpixel accuracy Synthetic Aperture Radar (SAR) image registration which also satisfies real-time demand of SAR image processing. Because of the presence of speckle noise in SAR image, improved region detection method are carried on in reference image and sensed image respectively firstly. Then each region is represented by a set of invariant moments and chain coding of the region boundary. Correspondence between the regions in the reference image and sensed image is established by the improved regions matching criterion which proposed by us. The centers of gravity and the corners on the region boundary are the potential control points. Correspondence between the control points is established in the feature space, using the principle of minimum distance classifier. After finding enough and right matched control points, interpolation and estimation of transformation parameters using least squares method are executed finally.
Indicative Structures of Paleoseismicity in the Acequion River Valley, San Juan Province, Central-Western Argentina

Evidence for paleo-seismicity has been discovered in the Acequión river valley, in West central Argentina. Two Holocene rock avalanches have been observed; the most recent of these dammed a lake, whose sediments contain liquefaction structures. At least five paleo-earthquakes affected this region during the late Quaternary, as deduced from the succession of their secondary effects. The magnitude and the probable tectonic source of these paleo-events are discussed. The observed liquefaction features associated with slumps, joints, fractures, and faults, should be generated by M>5 earthquakes related to the nearby quaternary Cerro Salinas fault, which belongs to the Eastern Precordillera fault system. These data extend the regional seismicity record to the Holocene and highlight the high seismic hazard in this part of Argentina.
Landscape Fragmentation in Iceland

Landscape fragmentation measurements provide baseline data of direct human influence on landscape and habitat systems through land use. In 2011, the European Environment Agency, the EEA and the Swiss Federal Office for the Environment or FOEN created a comprehensive report on the status of landscape fragmentation in 28 European countries, excluding Iceland. This thesis builds on EEA and FOEN methodology in order to create comparable data for Iceland. The Icelandic data set had to be adjusted to the European format to ensure that the results could be compared. The calculations were obtained using GIS software technology, where five types of reporting units were used with six different fragmentation geometries. Three of the six fragmentation geometries were created considering local environmental factors, amending the constraining factors used in the European research. The results indicate that landscape fragmentation in Iceland is low. By revealing the baseline data now, one can account for fragmentation in future infrastructure development planning through monitoring. This can be achieved on a country level e.g. by implementing the base line indicators as one of the factors considered in the newly proposed country planning policy. The effects of fragmentation to ecosystems accrue in a gradual manner. Addressing the issue beforehand can limit costly mitigation measures in the future and furthermore strengthen Iceland’s ability to provide various landscape habitats to the country ́s particular flora and fauna.
Vertical Flow Constructed Wetlands: Eco-engineering Systems for Wastewater and Sludge Treatment

Vertical flow constructed wetlands for wastewater and sludge treatment represent a relatively new and still growing technology. Vertical Flow Constructed Wetlands is the first book to present the state-of-the-art knowledge regarding vertical flow constructed wetlands theory and applications. In this book, you will learn about vertical flow systems with information about application and performance. Vertical Flow Constructed Wetlands also includes information on how different countries are applying the technology, with design guidelines to illustrate best practices worldwide. A focus on water conservation through reuse of treated water showcases the benefit of vertical flow construction, which has greatly increased the attractiveness of the technology in recent years. Features: all state-of-the-art knowledge regarding vertical flow constructed wetlands gathered in one book; a review of various constructed wetland approaches, including information about applications and performance, helps clarify what is currently known about constructed wetland principles and design; and discussion of how to manage the treated wastewater leaving the vertical flow for increasing biodiversity, providing food and habitat for birds, and producing harvestable biomass or crops. It includes case studies of constructed wetlands in developing countries.
Assessment of the 6th North American Duck Symposium (2013): “Ecology and 512 Conservation of North American Waterfowl”

Using web-based technology, we e-mailed a survey link to all 450 conferees of the 6th North American Duck Symposium (NADS 6), “ Ecology and Conservation of North American Waterfowl ” (ECNAW), seeking feedback from attendees in order to guide the organisation of future waterfowl and other wildlife symposia. Twelve questions were posed to evaluate the 2013 all-waterfowl symposium and a further 18 questions to assist planning future similar meetings. A total of 284 responses (63%) were received; the feedback suggested that NADS 6 was well organised, that it presented relevant information and that it was valuable to conferees. Perceptions of respondents on the structure of NADS 6 (i.e. whether presentation on all waterfowl should be included, or only on ducks) may not be representative of attendees of previous NADS meetings, as these focused on duck species. Nevertheless, respondents suggested that future symposia should continue on a 3-year rotation and retain its 4-day format with four morning plenary sessions, concurrent afternoon oral presentations and evening poster and mentee-mentor sessions. Respondents also recommended a maximum of three concurrent afternoon sessions and indicated that future symposia might continue to embrace geese and swans as well as ducks. The results suggest a need for officials of NADS to determine future meeting frameworks and venues. Web-based surveys provide a useful tool for conference evaluation and can promote effective design and relevance of future meetings and related events.
Gait Analysis System Using Infrared LED Landmarks

A low cost gait analysis system, which can measure stride length, walking speed, and ground reaction force, is proposed. A gait analysis system is used for medical evaluation of patients and rehabilitation assistance. Low cost cameras are attached to a shoe and movement of a shoe is estimated using infrared LED landmarks. Ground reaction force is measured from pressure sensors, which are installed inside a shoe. Through experiments, it is shown that the proposed system can be used to obtain stride length, walking speed, and ground reaction force.
Bubble Point Measurements with Liquid Methane of a Screen Capillary Liquid Acquisition Device

Liquid acquisition devices (LADs) can be utilized within a propellant tank in space to deliver single-phase liquid to the engine in low gravity. One type of liquid acquisition device is a screened gallery whereby a fine mesh screen acts as a “bubble filter” and prevents the gas bubbles from passing through until a crucial pressure differential condition across the screen, called the bubble point, is reached. This paper presents data for LAD bubble point data in liquid methane (LCH4) for stainless steel Dutch twill screens with mesh sizes of 325×2300 and 200×1400 wires per inch. Data is presented for both saturated and sub-cooled LCH4, and is compared with predicted values.
Assessing climate change impacts on Upper Grande River Basin hydrology, Southeast Brazil

Brazilian electric power is mostly based on hydraulics sources through hydropower plant reservoirs that are fed by rivers located in Southeast Brazil. Possible changes in climate can affect the energy supply of the country. The objective of this work is to assess the possible changes in the hydrology of the Upper Grande River Basin (UGRB) under a future climate change scenario, using the Lavras Simulation of Hydrology (LASH) model forced by the outputs of the Eta model, a regional climate model, which was driven by HadCM3 A1B scenario for three time slices in the period between 2011 and 2099. Owing to the surface heterogeneity of the region, the hydrologic model was previously calibrated for four watersheds of the UGRB, which are located in its headwater region and evaluated against observational time series of the present climate period, 1961–1990. In the first future time slice, 2011–2040, the results showed a small reduction in the annual run‐off, but for the other time slices, the trend changed to strong increase in most of the watersheds. The water budget in the region calculated from the Eta model agreed with the run‐off trends, as water excess reduced in the first time slice and gradually increased towards the end of the century. The run‐off components showed intraseasonal variability. The reduction of rains in the end of winter, the dry period in the region, and in the beginning of spring, may cause a change in the dynamics of the groundwater recharge, affecting the base flow, which can extend and intensify the flow recession period, and therefore affect the availability of water resources. On the other hand, the increase of rains during the summer, the rainy season of the region, caused an increase of the direct surface run‐off, which can modify the flood regimes of the rivers in the region.
A 12-Year Experimental Design to Test the Recovery of Butterfly Biodiversity in an Urban Ecosystem: Lessons from the Parc Urbain des Papillons

Simple Summary In a world where city dwellers are disconnected from nature, scientists are sounding the alarm regarding the decline in pollinators both in the countryside and in cities. Among these pollinating insects, butterflies are a particular focus of study, as their populations are declining sharply as a result of urbanization and the artificialization of vegetation. An ecological engineering project based on a plantation of host and nectariferous plants and backed up by a well thought out management approach was carried out in Marseille at the Parc Urbain des Papillons (the Butterflies Urban Park). We succeeded in almost doubling the number of butterfly species over the 12 years of the project. Mediterranean species that were rare at the beginning of the monitoring survey colonized the site. However, the monitoring of a nearby natural wasteland shows that some species are still absent. The plant palette used proved its effectiveness, and it would be worth duplicating this system in other urban contexts to encourage butterflies to remain in the city. Abstract Urbanization is one of the main threats to biodiversity. However, some urban green spaces could act as refuges for urban fauna if the composition of the flora were less horticultural and if a less intensive management strategy is adopted. Among the taxa, butterflies are experiencing a strong decline from European to regional scales. An ecological engineering project based on a plantation of host and nectariferous plants backed up by a well thought out management strategy was carried out in Marseille at the Parc Urbain des Papillons (the Butterflies Urban Park). We assessed its effectiveness by comparing the butterfly communities in this park before and after the engineering work, and we compared it to a neighboring wasteland with natural habitats. After 12 years of the project, the results show a significant change in the species composition. The species richness greatly increased from 25 to 42 species. Some specialist species we targeted appeared, and their numbers increased from one to five. However, three Mediterranean species are still absent compared to the wasteland with natural habitats. As the plant palette used and the management strategy implemented enabled us to significantly increase the number of species, we now plan to work on the structure of the vegetation.
Ultrastructural and Biogeochemical Features of Microbiotic Soil Crusts and their Implications in a Semi-Arid Habitat

This investigation was designed to explore the relationships between lichen symbionts (phycobiont and mycobiont) and the substrate on which they grow by examining the chemical and ultrastructural features of the lichen-soil interface. These lichens form an integral part of microbiotic soil crusts. Fragments of three different lichen biotypes growing over gypsum crystals and marls were fixed and embedded in resin. The lichen-substratum interface was then examined by scanning electron microscopy with backscattered electron imaging. In situ observation, microanalytical (EDS), and FT-Raman plus infrared spectroscopy of the lichen-substratum interface indicated that different ultrastructural features of the mycobiont were related to biogeochemical processes and Ca 2+ distribution in the soil crust. Phycobionts were observed to make direct contact with the substratum and to be surrounded by a nondifferentiated thallus structure. These observations suggest that they can grow outside the thallus in the early stages of lichen development in the semi-arid conditions of their habitat. The particular ultrastructural features of the lichen thallus and of the lichen-substratum interface appear to have marked effects on runoff phenomena and ponding generation of the surface.
Slab buckling and its effect on the distributions and focal mechanisms of deep-focus earthquakes

SUMMARY This integrated study of deep earthquake locations and focal mechanisms investigates the relationship between the shape of subducting slabs and seismic behaviour in Wadati-Benioff zones. High quality earthquake locations are used to map the shapes of subducting slabs which have reached the upper-lower mantle boundary. The resulting slab models reveal the presence of large slab folds in the mantle transition zone. The distributions and focal mechanisms of deep earthquakes are analysed to determine whether these folds have a role in governing Wadati-Benioff zone seismicity. Bands or lineations of dense seismicity are associated with the hinge zones of identiﬁed folds. The focal mechanisms of earthquakes within these bands reveal that the mapped fold hinges are commonly perpendicular to the directions of maximum coseismic extension and compression. The hinges plunge at a variety of angles, resulting in systematic deviations from the downdip stress ﬁeld expected within planar slabs. Slab synforms are typiﬁed by earthquake focal mechanisms indicating in-plane compression (e.g. Izu-Bonin, Tonga), while antiforms have earthquake focal mechanisms indicating in-plane extension (e.g. Solomons) or a mixture of in-plane compression and extension (e.g. Tonga). Slab buckling explains both the clustering of earthquakes and the observed focal mechanism orientations within fold hinges. The localization of strain within buckle zones results in several of the peaks observed in regional earthquake depth distributions. During buckling, the directions of maximum shortening and extension are expected to be perpendicular to the fold hinges, in agreement with deep earthquake moment tensors. Displacement of the minimum-strain surface away from the centre of each seismogenic zone can explain the predominance of in-plane compression within synforms and in-plane extension within antiforms. More complex local variation in focal mechanism orientations in the Tonga slab can be explained by a superposition of in-plane compression and bending strain. Buckling appears to be a common mechanism facilitating convergence between subducting slabs and the lower mantle. The consequent rotation and translation of fold limbs may explain the discrepancy between estimates of convergence based on subduction velocities and long-term coseismic strain.