Miracle-dz/UniFAR-FTUs huggingface dataset:
Biological relativity to water–energy dynamics

Climate has long been related to geographical differences in the distribution and diversity of life. What has eluded explanation is why this should be so. One emerging possibility is biological relativity to water–energy dynamics: the relative nature of biotic dynamics to changes in energy/matter conditions caused by changes in water (all states) while doing work, especially liquid water. The dynamic parameters involved – liquid water and optimal energy conditions – are independent of life, and have been shown to provide a simple, globally predictive explanation for co‐variation between climate and the species richness of woody plants. Here I elaborate on what I mean by ‘biological relativity to water–energy dynamics’ and how it should relate to the geography and evolution of life in general (terrestrial, subterranean, marine/aquatic biota). Working through a natural hierarchy of physical, geographical, ecological and biological first principles, I outline the hierarchical, abiotic → biotic conceptual framework within which this idea operates. The implications of this idea include the following. First, the biosphere is better conceptualized as a ‘subsphere’ of the liquid hydrosphere – a system within a system, wherein ‘life’ has all the unique physical properties of liquid water, plus unique emergent properties of its own. Second, the fundamental capacity for life to exist and be dynamic in all biotic systems is determined by the abiotic capacity for liquid water to exist and be dynamic, which is always relative to the capacity for water–energy dynamics in general. Third, liquid water–energy dynamics acts as a fundamental mechanism of evolution, while being a constant mechanism of natural selection. Fourth, over space and time, there should be first‐order predictable and/or systematic differences in the capacity for, operation and outcomes of, biotic dynamics globally (e.g. species richness), that necessarily dissolve into apparent chaos locally. Fifth, biological relativity to water–energy dynamics provides a fundamental and natural framework for operationalizing hierarchy theory and developing trans‐scalar explanations for the geography and evolution of life's diversity.
Post-collisional collapse in the wake of migrating arc-continent collision in the Ilan Basin, Taiwan

The Ilan Basin of northern Taiwan forms the western limit of the Okinawa Trough, where the trough meets the compressional ranges of central Taiwan. Apatite fission-track ages of 1.2 ± 0.5 Ma and 3.5 ± 0.5 Ma, measured north and south of the basin, respectively, indicate faster exhumation rates in the Hsuehshan Range to the north (>1.6 mm/yr) than in the Backbone Range to the south (0.7 mm/yr). Reconstructed subsidence rates along the northern basin margin are also faster than in the south (6–7 compared with 3–5 mm/yr). Global positioning system (GPS) and active seismological data indicate motion of the southern basin margin to the east and southeast. We propose that the Ilan Basin is being formed as a result of extension of northern Taiwan, largely controlled by a major southeast-dipping fault, modeled at ∼30° dip, and mapped as a continuation of the Lishan Fault, a major thrust structure in the Central Ranges. Flexural rigidity of the lithosphere under the basin is low, with elastic thickness ∼3 km. A southwest-migrating collision between the Luzon Arc and southern China, accompanied by subduction polarity reversal in the Ryukyu Trench, has allowed crustal blocks that were previously held in compression between the Eurasian and Philippine Sea plates to move trenchward as they reach the northern end of the collision zone. Subduction polarity reversal permits rapid extension and formation of the Ilan Basin and presumably, at least, the western Okinawa Trough, as a direct consequence of arc-continent collision, not because of independent trench rollback forces. This conceptual model suggests that migrating arc-continent collision causes the rapid formation of deep marginal basins that are then filled by detritus from the adjacent orogen, and that these should be common features in the geologic record.
High‐speed video observations of positive ground flashes produced by intracloud lightning

High‐speed video recordings of two lightning flashes confirm that positive cloud‐to‐ground (CG) strokes can be produced by extensive horizontal intracloud (IC) discharges within and near the cloud base. These recordings constitute the first observations of CG leaders emanating from IC discharges of either polarity. In one case, the discharge began with a negative leader that propagated horizontally, went upward and produced an IC discharge. After the beginning of the IC discharge, a positive leader emanated from the lowest portion of the IC discharge, and initiated a positive return stroke. In the other case, the IC discharge began with a positive leader and then initiated a downward‐propagating positive leader that contained recoil processes and produced a bright return stroke followed by a long continuing luminosity. These observations help to understand the complex genesis of positive CG flashes, why IC lightning commonly precedes them and why extensive horizontal channels are often involved.
SIZE-BASED DYNAMICS OF THE PELAGIC FISH COMMUNITY OFF NORTHERN CHILE

The well-being of humans and their societies depends on goods and services from marine ecosystems. Management of the fish stocks off Northern Chile is based on a single species approach. However, the fish species are not independent, and there is a need to understand the species interactions within the community and with the 3climate variability and human pressures. In this thesis I studied the size-based dynamics of pelagic fish community off Northern Chile. I investigated temporal effects of climate variability on size-based indicators from the pelagic fishery. I found that catches from the pelagic community have been declining and have become composed of smaller fish. The main signals from the environment were short-term effects, but the trends found were probably combined consequences of climate variability and fishing. I developed a multispecies size-spectrum model to explore the dynamics of the pelagic community. The model examined the effect of cannibalism and intraguild predation on anchovy and sardine dynamics under different environmental conditions. I found that climate variability and predation interactions are both needed to understand the coexistence and extinction of anchovy and sardine. The effect of fishing on anchovy dynamics was also explored through the model. Preliminary results showed that fishing below maturity has lower impact on anchovy dynamics than current fishing pattern off northern Chile. In addition the approach of a balanced harvest strategy would be more beneficial for anchovy only when it follows the relative growth rate of the species. Indicators and models are key tools in implementing the ecosystem-based approach. This thesis has combined these tools with emerging ecological theory about the role of size in the structuring marine ecosystems and, in this way, has set up a basic framework to work towards the ecosystem-based fishery management off Northern Chile.
Petrology of Whiteschists and Associated Rocks at Mautia Hill (Tanzania): Fluid Infiltration during High-Grade Metamorphism?

Talc-kyanite schists (whiteschists), magnesiohornblende-kyanite-talc-quartz schists and enstatite-sapphirine-chlorite schists occur at Mautia Hill in the East African Orogen of Tanzania. They are associated with metapelites and garnet-clinopyroxene-quartz metabasites. Geobarometry (GASP/GADS equilibria) applied to the latter two rock types indicates a peak pressure of P = 10-11 kbar. These results are confirmed by the high fO(2) assemblage hollandite-kyanite-quartz and late-stage manganian andalusite that contains up to 19.5 mol. % Mn2SiO5. Maximum temperatures of T = 720degreesC are inferred from late-stage yoderite + quartz. A clockwise P-T evolution is constrained by prograde kyanite inclusions in metapelitic garnet and late-stage reaction rims of cordierite between green yoderite and talc that reflect conditions at least 3-4 kbar below the peak pressure. Oxidizing conditions are recorded throughout the metamorphic history of the whiteschists and chlorite schists, as indicated by the presence of haematite coexisting with pseudobrookite and/or rutile. Increasing water activity near peak pressures is thought to have led to the breakdown of the high-pressure assemblages (Tlc-Ky-Hem and Mg-Hbl-Ky-Hem) and the subsequent formation of certain uncommon minerals, e.g. yellow sapphirine, Mn-andalusite, green and purple yoderite, piemontite and boron-free kornerupine. The proposed increase in water activity is attributed to fluid infiltration resulting from the devolatilization of underlying sediments during metamorphism.
The influence of crude oil on the growth of subantarctic marine bacteria

The short term degradation of ‘Arabian light’ crude oil was followed under various seasonal conditions in coastal seawater at Iles Kerguelen. Artificial degradation experiments were carried out in 3 m3 tanks. In situ experiments were conducted in free-floating, semi-enclosed chambers permitting direct contact between the crude oil and the marine environment. Daily sampling allowed a regular survey of the bacterial changes of the oil contaminated seawater. All samples were analysed for total bacteria, heterotrophic viable microflora and hydrocarbon utilizing microflora. At the end of experiments, the remaining oil was carefully collected for rough quantitative estimation of hydrocarbon degradation. All the results clearly revealed a significant increase in the three types of bacterial microflora after the addition of crude oil. However, the data suggest that the initial state of the bacterial communities is important. Thus, the seasonal variations in the bacterial responses to hydrocarbon addition can be related to the differences in the natural bacterial populations involved. In all cases the wall effects observed in batch systems were reduced with in situ incubations.
Aboriginal material culture in the Herbert / Burdekin District, North Queensland

This thesis is a study of the material culture of the Aborigines of the Herbert/Burdekin district, north Queensland, based on ethnohistorical literature, ethnographic collections and archaeological survey. An attempt has been made to determine the relationship of the material culture to the environment, to discover any cultural variations within the Herbert/Burdekin, and to place the material culture of this region in the wider context of Australian Aboriginal culture. Wherever possible comparisons have been made among all three sources of evidence, and consideration is given to the potential of the procedure adopted in this study as a means of providing a complete and accurate picture of traditional Aboriginal material culture.
U.S. federal government tries to get ahead of the curve with drought planning

Richard Tinker, a meteorologist with the National Weather Service (NWS), has seen severe droughts in other parts of the country during previous years. But current conditions in the United States are stunting row crops, lowering the levels of reservoirs and rivers, and parching especially hard the Mid-Atlantic states in addition to parts of California and other regions. The Mid-Atlantic is a region perhaps not as sensitized to the creepingly slow troubles droughts can wreak, as are the water-lorn West and the once-Dust Bowled Great Plains. The drought—which the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) said on August 6 already has caused the driest seasons in four Mid-Atlantic states since record-keeping began 105 years ago—is also taking its toll on Tinker's backyard in the metropolitan Washington, D.C. area.
CLIMATE CHANGE: POTENTIAL IMPACTS AND INTERACTIONS IN WETLANDS OF THE UNTTED STATES 1

ABSTRACT: Wetlands exist in a transition zone between aquatic and terrestrial environments which can be altered by subtle changes in hydrology. Twentieth century climate records show that the United States is generally experiencing a trend towards a wetter, warmer climate; some climate models suggest that this trend will continue and possibly intensify over the next 100 years. Wetlands that are most likely to be affected by these and other potential changes (e.g., sea‐level rise) associated with atmospheric carbon enrichment include permafrost wetlands, coastal and estuanne wetlands, peat lands, alpine wetlands, and prairie pothole wetlands. Potential impacts range from changes in community structure to changes in ecological function, and from extirpation to enhancement. Wetlands (particularly boreal peat‐lands) play an important role in the global carbon cycle, generally sequestering carbon in the form of biomass, methane, dissolved organic material and organic sediment. Wetlands that are drained or partially dried can become a net source of methane and carbon dioxide to the atmosphere, serving as a positive biotic feedback to global warming. Policy options for minimizing the adverse impacts of climate change on wetland ecosystems include the reduction of current anthropogenic stresses, allowing for inland migration of coastal wetlands as sea‐level rises, active management to preserve wetland hydrology, and a wide range of other management and restoration options.
Ionosperic refraction modeling for better autonomous GNSS code positioning: in preparation of solar cycle 24.

This paper describes GNSS-processing optimisation for better autonomous single-point positioning using single frequency code receivers. GNSS processing improvement is carried out in terms of near-real time ionosphere delay modelling, which will be crucial during the upcoming 24th maximum solar cycle. The main scope of this article is to examine how sudden changes in the ionosphere, caused by events on the Sun, affect autonomous single-point positioning in simple navigation tasks. Further, the specific method of ionosphere delay modelling from actual twofrequency receivers, acquiring carrier phase and code observations, is shown. The modelled value of the ionospheric refraction, which is given in GNSS path delay, is further used in point positioning from singlefrequency code instruments. In addition, we show the advantage of GNSS permanent stations that can supply a wide range of users with better ionosphere data in near real time. From actual experiments, the magnitude of the ionospheric impact on each specific 3D position component is shown and further improved using modelled ionosphere delay values. Finally, we show how to improve GNSS position determination from simple single- or two-frequency GNSS code or carrier-phase receivers in differential GNSS method. This study was conducted for preparations for the upcoming solar cycle maximum, expected to be held in May 2013.
The Tourist Experience

1. Stages, gazes and constructions of tourism. 2. Motives, behaviours, body and mind. 3. From motivation to assessment. 4. Vital encounters: When tourists contact travel agents. 5. Making or breaking the tourist experience: The role of human resource management. 6. Urban tourism Evaluating tourists experience of urban places. 7. Special event motives and behaviour. 8. Memories of the beach. 9. Playing with the past: Heritage tourism under the tyrannies of postmodern discourse. 10. 'The time of our lives or time for our lives: An examination of time in holidaying.
Seismic stratigraphy of a large, Cretaceous shelf-margin delta complex, offshore southern Australia

Seismic images along Australia's southern continental margin reveal the internal geometry and depositional history of the Hammerhead Delta, a Late Cretaceous shelf-margin delta complex in the Ceduna Subbasin of the Bight Basin. The Hammerhead Delta comprises the late Santonian to Maastrichtian Hammerhead supersequence, which is divisible into three, third-order sequence sets and their component sequences. Sequence set 1 (late Santonian to early Campanian) comprises three progradational sequences deposited after a major fall in sea level under a high sediment supply regime. Sequence set 2 (early Campanian to early Maastrichtian) comprises two, sandy progradational sequences. Basinward shifts in facies caused by forced regression are apparent between each progradational sequence. Sequence set 3 (early to late Maastrichtian) is a thick, aggradational succession deposited when the rates of creation of accommodation space and sediment supply were balanced. A transgressive episode at the top of sequence set 3 marks a rapid decrease in sediment supply and the end of deltaic sedimentation.A long-lived sand-rich sediment supply, most likely derived from erosion of the eastern Australian highlands to the northeast, was the major influence on delta formation. Rapid progradation and the formation of thick shelf-margin clinoforms resulted in slope instability, growth-faulting, and load-induced collapse of the shelf margin during the Campanian. The Hammerhead Delta is characterized by sandy, progradational clinoforms and lacks the thick coeval prodeltaic shales and shale tectonism that are common to many other large deltas. The results of this study, which included seismic facies mapping, well correlations, and comparisons to other large shale-poor deltas, suggest that the Hammerhead Delta has excellent reservoir potential.
Submarine hydrothermal manganese deposits in the Izu–Bonin – Mariana arc: An overview

Submarine hydrothermal manganese deposits are relatively common along the Izu–Bonin – Mariana (IBM) arc but hydrothermal iron crusts are much less so. The hydrothermal manganese deposits show characteristics typical of submarine hydrothermal manganese deposits found worldwide. Recent hydrothermal manganese deposits associated with active hydrothermal systems occur on seamounts or rifts located ∼ 5–40 km behind the volcanic front on the Shichito‐Iwojima Ridge, IBM. Fossil hydrothermal manganese deposits associated with older hydrothermal systems occur on inactive seamounts located on ridges running parallel to the volcanic front in both forearc and back‐arc settings. These fossil hydrothermal manganese deposits are generally overlain by younger hydrogenetic manganese crusts. Differences in minor element composition and in the rare earth element pattern of hydrothermal manganese deposits from the forearc and back‐arc settings may reflect differences in the nature of substrate rocks or temperature of the hydrothermal fluids at these locations.
On measuring economic values for nature

This paper describes how economists ascribe values to the things people can choose. The economic value of an ecosystem function or service relates to the contribution it makes to human welfare, where human welfare is measured in terms of each individual's own assessment of well-being. After developing how this definition is used, the paper describes problems and opportunities for advancing the state-of-the-art in measuring economic values for nature. These arguments are developed using recent studies that attempted to estimate economic values for ecosystems on a global scale. One implication of this evaluation is that there is a need for greater communication between ecologists and economists. Economic analyses must reflect the intricate web of physical interrelationships linking activities that have harmful effects in one part of an ecosystem to the potential effects on other parts. At the same time, economic values for ecosystems accept consumer sovereignty and should be interpreted as descriptions of t.
Coastal ocean fronts and eddies imaged with ERS 1 synthetic aperture radar

ERS 1 C band synthetic aperture radar (SAR) data were collected during the Norwegian Continental Shelf Experiment (NORCSEX) both in November 1991 during the ERS 1 commissioning phase and at different seasons in 1992 and 1993. Characteristic SAR image expressions are observed in relation to perturbation of the surface current- short wave interaction across the Norwegian Coastal Current front for winds less than 10-12 rn s -1. In situ measurements document the existence of alternating zones of convergence and divergence coexisting with a strong near-surface current shear of nearly 4f (where f is the Coriolis parameter) across a distance of a few kilometers. Under calm to moderate winds, i.e., 4-7 rn s -1, characteristic expressions of upper ocean circulation features also include the manifestation of eddies through the presence of surface film which damps the Bragg waves. Comparison of a near-coincident National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration advanced very high resolution radiometer image and an ERS 1 SAR image supports the interpretation that surface current fronts are imaged by SAR. In combination with an SAR image simulation model, the relative quantitative importance of shear, convergence, and divergence along the front is examined. Although the model formulation is simple and the absolute magnitude of the perturbations is uncertain, the study shows that the SAR images can sometimes be used to interpret frontal dynamics, including growth and decay of meanders.
Contrasted hydrological responses to forest harvesting in two large neighbouring watersheds in snow hydrology dominant environment: implications for forest management and future forest hydrology studies

Two large neighbouring watersheds, the Bowron (3420 km2) and Willow (2860 km2) situated in the central interior of British Columbia, Canada, were used to compare their hydrological responses to forest harvesting in snow‐dominant environment. Both watersheds had experienced significant, comparative forest harvesting level. The long‐term hydrometric and timber harvesting data (>50 years of records) were analysed using time series analysis to examine the hydrological impacts of forest harvesting. The hydrological variables including mean, peak and low flows over annual and seasonal scales (spring snowmelt, summer rain and winter base flow) were tested separately. Results showed that forest harvesting in the Willow watershed significantly increased annual and spring mean flows as well as annual and spring peak flows, whereas it caused an insignificant change on those hydrological variables in the Bowron watershed. The contrasted differences in hydrological responses are due to the differences in topography, spatial heterogeneity, forest harvesting characteristics and climate between two watersheds. The relative uniform topography and climate in the Willow watershed may promote hydrological synchronization effects, whereas larger variation in elevations, together with forest harvesting that occurred at lower elevations, may cause hydrological de‐synchronization effect in the Bowron watershed. The contrasted results demonstrate that the effects of forest harvesting on hydrology in large watersheds are likely watershed specific, and any attempt to generalize hydrological responses to forest harvesting must be carried out with caution. A landscape ecological perspective is critically needed for future forest hydrology studies, particularly for large watersheds. Copyright © 2013 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.