Miracle-dz/UniFAR-FTUs huggingface dataset:
Near-annual SST variability in the Equatorial Pacific in a coupled general circulation model

Abstract Equatorial Pacific sea surface temperature (SST) anomalies in the Center for Ocean–Land–Atmosphere Studies (COLA) interactive ensemble coupled general circulation model show near-annual variability as well as biennial El Nino–Southern Oscillation (ENSO) variability. There are two types of near-annual modes: a westward propagating mode and a stationary mode. For the westward propagating near-annual mode, warm SST anomalies are generated in the eastern equatorial Pacific in boreal spring and propagate westward in boreal summer. Consistent westward propagation is seen in precipitation, surface wind, and ocean current. For the stationary near-annual mode, warm SST anomalies develop near the date line in boreal winter and decay locally in boreal spring. Westward propagation of warm SST anomalies also appears in the developing year of the biennial ENSO mode. However, warm SST anomalies for the westward propagating near-annual mode occur about two months earlier than those for the biennial ENSO mode and.
Investigations of Particle Size and Clay Mineral Effect on Gas Hydrate Formation in Natural Sediment

Accurately estimating natural gas hydrate resources is one of the most important issues when assessing the energy potential of natural gas hydrate, which relies largely on the precision of data on the hydrate saturation level in sediments of a reservoir. The primary mode of occurrence of gas hydrate recognized in the eastern Nankai Trough area is in sediment pores. It is suggested that the distribution of coarse-grained sands is one of the most important factors controlling the occurrence of natural gas hydrates. This research aims to elucidate the particle size and clay mineral effects on hydrate saturation in sediments through an experimental approach. The specimens tested include sand, silty sand, and silt, representing the main sediment types recovered from the gas hydrate distribution region of the eastern Nankai Trough. The results obtained from the experiments clearly indicate a particle size and clay content-dependent trend of low saturation in fine sediment but high saturation in coarse sediment. These results are generally consistent with NMR logging results for high-saturation samples, but are somewhat different for samples with low or medium saturation levels. To obtain a better understanding of the mechanism of these two factors, studies were carried out to investigate the saturation level of methane hydrate in a series of silica powders and clay. The results indicate that particle size and clay contents are the two key factors determining the saturation level of gas hydrate in sediments—the finer the particle size and/or the higher the clay content, the lower the hydrate saturation.
A novel method for maize leaf disease classification using the RGB-D post-segmentation image data

Maize (Zea mays L.) is one of the most important crops, influencing food production and even the whole industry. In recent years, global crop production has been facing great challenges from diseases. However, most of the traditional methods make it difficult to efficiently identify disease-related phenotypes in germplasm resources, especially in actual field environments. To overcome this limitation, our study aims to evaluate the potential of the multi-sensor synchronized RGB-D camera with depth information for maize leaf disease classification. We distinguished maize leaves from the background based on the RGB-D depth information to eliminate interference from complex field environments. Four deep learning models (i.e., Resnet50, MobilenetV2, Vgg16, and Efficientnet-B3) were used to classify three main types of maize diseases, i.e., the curvularia leaf spot [Curvularia lunata (Wakker) Boedijn], the small spot [Bipolaris maydis (Nishik.) Shoemaker], and the mixed spot diseases. We finally compared the pre-segmentation and post-segmentation results to test the robustness of the above models. Our main findings are: 1) The maize disease classification models based on the pre-segmentation image data performed slightly better than the ones based on the post-segmentation image data. 2) The pre-segmentation models overestimated the accuracy of disease classification due to the complexity of the background, but post-segmentation models focusing on leaf disease features provided more practical results with shorter prediction times. 3) Among the post-segmentation models, the Resnet50 and MobilenetV2 models showed similar accuracy and were better than the Vgg16 and Efficientnet-B3 models, and the MobilenetV2 model performed better than the other three models in terms of the size and the single image prediction time. Overall, this study provides a novel method for maize leaf disease classification using the post-segmentation image data from a multi-sensor synchronized RGB-D camera and offers the possibility of developing relevant portable devices.
Using MODIS data

Remote sensing is used every day for gathering information about the environment, land, ocean or atmosphere. Many satellites circle the Earth equipped with sensors, which »observe« the Earth and provide us data about the health of our environment. In this work we focused on the MODIS sensor, which is one of the newest and most advanced satellite remote sensing sensors today. The first part of this work deals with reasons for design and launch of MODIS and its main attributes. Main technical attributes of MODIS and satellites, which are carrying MODIS are described, and there is also a short comparison between MODIS and two similar sensors (AVHRR, AATSR). The work continues with a presentation of MODIS data products. This part is divided in four sections: the first section presents geolocation products, the second section presents ocean products, the third section presents atmospheric products and the last section presents land products. The second part of this work describes the access to MODIS data. It is written in an evident way how to access free MODIS data easily if we know what are we looking for. The main part discusses statistical correlation between land surface temperature and vegetation indices. First, the already proved correlation between land surface temperatures and normalized difference vegetation index (NDVI) is verified using MODIS data. Next, also the correlation between land surface temperature and enhanced vegetation index (EVI) is tested.
The geodynamic province of transitional lithosphere adjacent to magma-poor continental margins

Abstract Two different types of ‘transitional lithosphere’ have been documented along magma-poor rifted margins. One consists of apparently subcontinental mantle that has been exhumed, brittlely deformed, and serpentinized during late stages of rifting. A second is thinned (<10 km) continental crust, which in some cases is known to have been supported near sea level at least early in the rift history and thus is interpreted to reflect depth-dependent extension. In both cases, it is typically assumed that oceanic crust forms at the time that the brittle continental crust is breached or soon thereafter, and thus that transitional lithosphere has relatively limited width. Here three representative cases of transitional lithosphere are examined: one in the Newfoundland–Iberia rift and one at Goban Spur (both exhumed mantle), and one off the Angola–Congo margin (thin continental crust flanked seaward by apparently exhumed lower continental crust±exhumed mantle). Considering the geological and geophysical evidence, it appears that depth-dependent extension (riftward flow of weak lower continental crust and/or upper mantle) may be a common phenomenon on magma-poor margins and that this can result in a much broader zone of transitional lithosphere than has hitherto been assumed. Transitional lithosphere in this wide zone may consist of subcontinental mantle, lower continental crust or some combination thereof, depending on the strength profile of the pre-rift continental lithosphere. Transitional lithosphere ceases to be emplaced (i.e. ‘final break-up’ occurs) only when emplacement of heat and melt from the rising asthenosphere becomes dominant over lateral flow of the weak lower lithosphere. This model implies a two-stage break-up: first, the rupture of the brittle continental crust; and, second, the eventual separation of the ductile subcontinental lithosphere which is coincident with emplacement of normal oceanic crust. Well defined magnetic anomalies can form in transitional lithosphere that consists of highly serpentinized, exhumed mantle, and such anomalies therefore are not diagnostic of oceanic crust. Where present, the anomalies can be helpful in interpreting and dating the rifting history.
Is there a hidden potential for rural population growth in Sweden

Rural depopulation is a concern in many countries and various policy initiatives have been taken to combat such trends. This paper examines whether a hidden potential for rural population growth can be found in Sweden. If such potential exists, it implies that the development prospects for many rural areas are not as unpromising as they may seem today. If not, rapid rural depopulation can be expected and policymakers will have to increase their focus on how to lessen problems associated with population decline. In this paper we employ a combination of survey data and register data to identify the characteristics of people who have expressed a desire to move to rural areas and compare this population with those who actually do move to these areas. The results show that more people have rural residential preferences than the actual number of migrants to rural areas suggest. The findings indicate that there is a general potential for rural population growth, however, the characteristics of these two groups are similar and we can not discern any group as constituting this hidden potential. Nonetheless, we argue that this potential is unlikely to be realised in terms of rural population growth and the further implications of these findings are discussed.
Kernel estimation as a basic tool for geomorphological data analysis

Kernel estimation, based on the convolution of a probability density function with a set of magnitudes or event dates, provides tuneable smooth pictures of probability density functions and event intensity functions. Such pictures are in several respects superior to those provided by histograms, box plots, cumulative distributions or raw plots. They permit examination of broad features and fine structure, are readily produced with modest computational effort and are essentially free of artefacts arising from binning. Examples are given using data on cirque lengths, limestone pavements, glacier areas and dated flood deposits. The technique deserves widespread use in geomorphology and allied sciences. Copyright © 2007 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Effect of Ligament Fibers on Dynamics of Synthetic, Self-Oscillating Vocal Folds in a Biomimetic Larynx Model

Synthetic silicone larynx models are essential for understanding the biomechanics of physiological and pathological vocal fold vibrations. The aim of this study is to investigate the effects of artificial ligament fibers on vocal fold vibrations in a synthetic larynx model, which is capable of replicating physiological laryngeal functions such as elongation, abduction, and adduction. A multi-layer silicone model with different mechanical properties for the musculus vocalis and the lamina propria consisting of ligament and mucosa was used. Ligament fibers of various diameters and break resistances were cast into the vocal folds and tested at different tension levels. An electromechanical setup was developed to mimic laryngeal physiology. The measurements included high-speed video recordings of vocal fold vibrations, subglottal pressure and acoustic. For the evaluation of the vibration characteristics, all measured values were evaluated and compared with parameters from ex and in vivo studies. The fundamental frequency of the synthetic larynx model was found to be approximately 200–520 Hz depending on integrated fiber types and tension levels. This range of the fundamental frequency corresponds to the reproduction of a female normal and singing voice range. The investigated voice parameters from vocal fold vibration, acoustics, and subglottal pressure were within normal value ranges from ex and in vivo studies. The integration of ligament fibers leads to an increase in the fundamental frequency with increasing airflow, while the tensioning of the ligament fibers remains constant. In addition, a tension increase in the fibers also generates a rise in the fundamental frequency delivering the physiological expectation of the dynamic behavior of vocal folds.
Bottom sediments of Lorence Creek Lake, San Antonio, Texas, reflect contaminant trends in an urbanizing watershed

Cores of bottom sediments in Lorence Creek Lake were collected in August 1996 at the center of the lake, about 50 meters upstream of the dam. The site cored was in the deepest part of the lake (about 1 meter). Two cores were collected using a hand corer. The cores were 6.3 centimeters in diameter and about 27 and 38 centimeters long. Subsamples from one of the cores were collected every 2 or 3 centimeters for analysis of cesium-137 (137Cs) and major and trace elements; and subsamples similarly collected from the other core were analyzed for organochlorine compounds and PAHs.
Restoration of images from an airborne unstabilized hyperspectral line scanner

An airborne hyperspectral line scanner is used to image the ground as the aircraft moves on a single trajectory. In reality, it may be difficult for the aircraft to maintain a perfectly steady course causing distortions in the imagery. So, special subsystems including stabilizers are used to maintain the hyperspectral line scanner on the proper course. If the subsystems of an airborne hyperspectral line scanner are malfunctioning or if the proper stabilizers are not available, then a technique is needed to restore the imagery. It no stabilizers are used on the airborne line scanner, but if aircraft navigation information is available including yaw, pitch and roll, then the restoration may be automated. However, if the stabilizers are malfunctioning or if the navigation information is corrupted or unavailable, then a technique is needed to restore the imagery. This paper introduces an automated technique for restoring hyperspectral images that was used on some images obtained for the Dynamic Data Base program sponsored by the Defense Advanced Research Projects Agency. The automated approach is based on image flow vectors obtained from the unstable image. The approach is introduced along with results that demonstrate how successful the restoration is at the feature level.
CONFIRMACIÓN DE LA DISTRIBUCIÓN DE NOTIOSOREX CRAWFORDI , EN HIDALGO, MÉXICO

We added four recent records from three new localities for the desert shrew Notiosorex crawfordi, in the Mexican state of Hidalgo. The distribution commonly accepted for this shrew occupies the southern part of the United States of America, and the neighboring region of Northern Mexico (Baja California Norte and Sur, Sonora, Chihuahua, Colima, Tamaulipas, Sinaloa, Durango and Zacatecas). The records confirm the existence of the species in the state and extend its distribution until the municipality of Tetepango, 31 km to SW of the Grutas de Xoxafi and through the municipality of Tulancingo de Bravo, 75.8 km SE of the Grutas de Xoxafi, and 542 km south of the southernmost records recognized in Nuevo Leon. These records come to give certainty of the existence of this species in Hidalgo, since the scarce records and the great distance to the next known accepted locality (3 km SW Galeana, Nuevo Leon). The record most resent was obtained at 2001, and the scarce records made the presence of N. crawfordi in Hidalgo seem uncertain. The new records are located in areas in which developed different types of xeric scrublands, vegetation in which inhabits this shrew commonly. The existence of Notio-sorex in Hidalgo will can pass unnoticed because this shrew is considered rare and difficult to capture
Selected elements, PCBs, and PAHs in sediments of the North Sea—Baltic Sea transition zone: Sources and transport as derived from the distribution pattern

Abstract Geografisk Tidsskrift—Danish Journal of Geography 109(1):81–94, 2009 A total of 63 sediment samples were collected in the North Sea—Baltic Sea transition zone using hydraulically damped box-corer. Analysis of the top one cm sediments shows a north to south trend in Li, Ca and methylated PAHs suggesting transport of these elements and micro pollutants from the North Sea to the Baltic Sea. The sediment content of a high C/N ratio reflects preferential N decomposition during transport whereas a low P content in the northern and deepest part of the study area may result from early diagenesis effects. The spatial distributions of Zn and Pb with highest concentrations in the southern part of the study area imply local terrestrial supply and transport. In general, the PCB and PAH concentrations were high both in the northern and the southern parts of the area and low in-between. The relative constant ratio between the analyzed PCBs on all the stations suggests atmospheric deposition as the main source of PCB. Fluoranthene/Pyrene ratios >1 and Phenenthrene/Anthracene ratios <15 point at combustion of fossilfuel as the main source of PAH.
Diversidad fitoplanctónica en la franja costera sur del Río de la Plata

Diversity of phytoplankton from the Southern Coastal Fringe of the Rio de la Plata between 58°32' and 57°41' W, up to 10 km from the coast line was analized. The present study show the results of the sampling carried outside peces between 1993-1997. The species identified were illustrated and a brief ecological and meristic description was done for each taxon. A total of 211 samples were analysed and 172 taxa were found. The phytoplankton structure showed the predominance of few species and the highest diversity was located near the coast. The green algae and the diatoms were frequents and sometime the most abundant groups. Suspend solids carried by the river, stational and climatic changes and antropic disturbance are the most important factors in phytoplankton development. A few brachish-water or marine species have been found in the zone studied. According to ecological features the phytoplankton analysed was eutrophic, oligohalophilous and mesosaprobic.
Immune Activation and Inflammatory Response Mediated by the NOD/Toll-like Receptor Signaling Pathway—The Potential Mechanism of Bullfrog (Lithobates catesbeiana) Meningitis Caused by Elizabethkingia miricola

Elizabethkingia miricola is an emerging opportunistic pathogen that is highly pathogenic in both immunocompromised humans and animals. Once the disease occurs, treatment can be very difficult. Therefore, a deep understanding of the pathological mechanism of Elizabethkingia miricola is the key to the prevention and control of the disease. In this study, we isolated the pathogenic bacteria from bullfrogs with dark skin color, weak limbs, wryneck, and cataracts. Via subsequent morphological observations and a 16S rRNA gene sequence analysis, the pathogen was identified as Elizabethkingia miricola. The histopathological and transmission electron microscopy analysis revealed that the brain was the main target organ. Therefore, brain samples from diseased and healthy bullfrogs were used for the RNA-Seq analysis. The comparative transcriptome analysis revealed that the diseased bullfrog brain was characterized by the immune activation and inflammatory response, which were mediated by the “NOD-like receptor signaling pathway” and the “Toll-like receptor signaling pathway”. We also performed qRT-PCR to examine the expression profile of inflammation-related genes, which further verified the reliability of our transcriptome data. Based on the above results, it was concluded that the NOD/Toll-like receptor-related networks that dominate the immune activation and inflammatory response were activated in the brain of Elizabethkingia miricola-infected bullfrogs. This study contributes to the search for therapeutic targets for bullfrog meningitis and provides basic information for establishing effective measures to prevent and control bullfrog meningitis.
The terrestrial plasma source: A new perspective in solar-terrestrial processes from Dynamics Explorer

The geospace environment has been viewed as a mixing bowl for plasmas of both solar and terrestrial origin. The present perspective on the nature of the supply mechanisms has undergone a radical evolution over the past decade, particularly during the five years of the Dynamics Explorer mission. During this period, the terrestrial source has increased in importance in both magnitude and character of ionospheric outflow. These outflows include the classical polar wind, the cleft ion fountain, the auroral ion fountain, and the polar cap. The earth can be envisioned as a multifaceted fountain which ejects particles from different spatial locations spread around the globe. These particles exhibit a range of masses from 1 to 32 amu and a range of energies from 1 eV to 10 keV. The total flux of this ionospheric outflow is very large: adequate to supply the entire magnetospheric particle population. And the implications of the outflow are significant across a broad spectrum of solar-terrestrial processes ranging from sources of magnetospheric plasmas, to influences on ionospheric density and temperature structure, to energy transfer in phenomena such as stable auroral red arcs. The Dynamics Explorer mission has made a major contribution in the characterization of the terrestrialmore » plasma source. 60 references. « less
SEDIMENT TRANSPORT IN OSCILLATORY SHEET FLOW

Motivated by an interest in high rates of sediment transport, an experimental investigation was conducted to examine sediment motion in conditions of intense sediment transport. Fluid velocity and sediment concentration were measured simultaneously in a sheet flow regime generated in a u-shaped oscillatory water tunnel for two types of noncohesive sediments. A probe was developed to measure the instantaneous variations in sediment concentration based on the electrical conductivity of the fluid-grain mixture. Unlike previous concentration devices, this probe is nonintrusive and is capable of measuring a wide range of sediment concentrations, from extremely dense concentrations within the bed to low-concentration suspended load well above the moving layer of sediment. Horizontal fluid velocities were measured simultaneously using laser Doppler anemometry in backscatter mode. The sediment concentration measurements provide a comprehensive data set for sediment transport in sheet flow and near sheet flow regimes. The temporal variation of sediment transport over the half cycle of oscillation was examined. Most of the sediment was transported within the moving bed layer, with the total transport occurring between the stationary bed height and a distance about twice the thickness of the moving bed layer. The temporal variation in sediment transport was found to be proportional to cos(σt). The magnitude of the sediment transport increased with increasing bottom shear stress. Fluid velocity and sediment concentration measurements were used to calculate instantaneous and mean rates of sediment transport, which were compared with predictions from existing models.