bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Data and techniques for studying the urban heat island effect in Johannesburg
Authors: Hardy C. H. , Nel A. L.
Published: April 2015

Abstract. The city of Johannesburg contains over 10 million trees and is often referred to as an urban forest. The intra-urban spatial variability of the levels of vegetation across Johannesburg’s residential regions has an influence on the urban heat island effect within the city. Residential areas with high levels of vegetation benefit from cooling due to evapo-transpirative processes and thus exhibit weaker heat island effects; while their impoverished counterparts are not so fortunate. The urban heat island effect describes a phenomenon where some urban areas exhibit temperatures that are warmer than that of surrounding areas. The factors influencing the urban heat island effect include the high density of people and buildings and low levels of vegetative cover within populated urban areas. This paper describes the remote sensing data sets and the processing techniques employed to study the heat island effect within Johannesburg. In particular we consider the use of multi-sensorial multi-temporal remote sensing data towards a predictive model, based on the analysis of influencing factors.
Time Series Analysis of Satellie-Measured Vegetation Phenology and Aerosol Optical Thickness over the Korean Peninsula
Authors: Park S.
Published: April 2015

Abstract. The spatiotemporal influences of climatic factors and atmospheric aerosol on vegetative phenological cycles of the Korean Peninsula was analysed based on four major forest types. High temporal-resolution satellite data can overcome limitations of ground-based phenological studies with reasonable spatial resolution. Moderate Resolution Imaging Spectroradiometer (MODIS) vegetation index (VI) (MOD13Q1 and MYD13Q1) and aerosol (MOD04_D3) data were downloaded from the USGS Earth Observation and Science (EROS) Data Center and NASA Goddard Space Flight Center. Harmonic analysis was used to describe and compare the periodic phenomena of the vegetative phenology and atmospheric aerosol optical thickness (AOT). The method transforms complex timeseries to a sum of various sinusoidal functions, or harmonics. Each harmonic curve, or term (or Fourier series), from time-series data us defined by a unique amplitude and a phase, indicating the half of the height and the peak time of a curve. Therefore, the mean, phase, and amplitude of harmonic terms of the data provided the temporal relationships between AOT and VI time series. The phenological characteristics of evergreen forest, deciduous forest, and grassland were similar to each other, but the inter-annual VI amplitude of mixed forest was differentiated from the other forest types. Overall, forests with high VI amplitude reached their maximum greenness earlier, and the phase of VI, or the peak time of greenness, was significantly influenced by air temperature. AOT time-series showed strong seasonal and inter-annual variations. Generally, aerosol concentrations were peaked during late spring and early summer. However, inter-annual AOT variations did not have significant relationships with those of VI. Weak relationships between inter-annual AOT and VI variations indicate that the impacts of aerosols on vegetation growth may be limited for the temporal scale investigated in the region.
Cloud Photogrammetry from Space
Authors: Zakšek K. , Gerst A. , von der Lieth J. , Ganci G. , Hort M.
Published: April 2015

Abstract. The most commonly used method for satellite cloud top height (CTH) compares brightness temperature of the cloud with the atmospheric temperature profile. Because of the uncertainties of this method, we propose a photogrammetric approach. As clouds can move with high velocities, even instruments with multiple cameras are not appropriate for accurate CTH estimation. Here we present two solutions. The first is based on the parallax between data retrieved from geostationary (SEVIRI, HRV band; 1000 m spatial resolution) and polar orbiting satellites (MODIS, band 1; 250 m spatial resolution). The procedure works well if the data from both satellites are retrieved nearly simultaneously. However, MODIS does not retrieve the data at exactly the same time as SEVIRI. To compensate for advection in the atmosphere we use two sequential SEVIRI images (one before and one after the MODIS retrieval) and interpolate the cloud position from SEVIRI data to the time of MODIS retrieval. CTH is then estimated by intersection of corresponding lines-of-view from MODIS and interpolated SEVIRI data. The second method is based on NASA program Crew Earth observations from the International Space Station (ISS). The ISS has a lower orbit than most operational satellites, resulting in a shorter minimal time between two images, which is needed to produce a suitable parallax. In addition, images made by the ISS crew are taken by a full frame sensor and not a push broom scanner that most operational satellites use. Such data make it possible to observe also short time evolution of clouds.
Does topographic normalization of landsat images improve fractional tree cover mapping in tropical mountains?
Authors: Adhikari H. , Heiskanen J. , Maeda E. E , Pellikka P. K. E.
Published: April 2015

Abstract. Fractional tree cover (Fcover) is an important biophysical variable for measuring forest degradation and characterizing land cover. Recently, atmospherically corrected Landsat data have become available, providing opportunities for high-resolution mapping of forest attributes at global-scale. However, topographic correction is a pre-processing step that remains to be addressed. While several methods have been introduced for topographic correction, it is uncertain whether Fcover models based on vegetation indices are sensitive to topographic effects. Our objective was to assess the effect of topographic correction on the accuracy of Fcover modelling. The study area was located in the Eastern Arc Mountains of Kenya. We used C-correction as a digital elevation model (DEM) based correction method. We examined if predictive models based on normalized difference vegetation index (NDVI), reduced simple ratio (RSR) and tasseled cap indices (Brightness, Greenness and Wetness) are improved if using topographically corrected data. Furthermore, we evaluated how the results depend on the DEM by correcting images using available global DEM (ASTER GDEM, SRTM) and a regional DEM. Reference Fcover was obtained from wall-to-wall airborne LiDAR data. Landsat images corresponding to minimum and maximum sun elevation were analyzed. We observed that topographic correction could only improve models based on Brightness and had very small effect on the other models. Cosine of the solar incidence angle (cos i) derived from SRTM DEM showed stronger relationship with spectral bands than other DEMs. In conclusion, our results suggest that, in tropical mountains, predictive models based on common vegetation indices are not sensitive to topographic effects.
A BiomeBGC-based Evaluation of Dryness Stress of Central European Forests
Authors: Buddenbaum H. , Hientgen J. , Dotzler S. , Werner W. , Hill J.
Published: April 2015

Abstract. Dryness stress is expected to become a more common problem in central European forests due to the predicted regional climate change. Forest management has to adapt to climate change in time and think ahead several decades in decisions on which tree species to plant at which locations. The summer of 2003 was the most severe dryness event in recent time, but more periods like this are expected. Since forests on different sites react quite differently to drought conditions, we used the process-based growth model BiomeBGC and climate time series from sites all over Germany to simulate the reaction of deciduous and coniferous tree stands in different characteristics of drought stress. Times with exceptionally high values of water vapour pressure deficit coincided with negative modelled values of net primary production (NPP). In addition, in these warmest periods the usually positive relationship between temperature and NPP was inversed, i.e., under stress conditions, more sunlight does not lead to more photosynthesis but to stomatal closure and reduced productivity. Thus we took negative NPP as an indicator for drought stress. In most regions, 2003 was the year with the most intense stress, but the results were quite variable regionally. We used the Modis MOD17 gross and net primary production product time series and MOD12 land cover classification to validate the spatial patterns observed in the model runs and found good agreement between modelled and observed behaviour. Thus, BiomeBGC simulations with realistic site parameterization and climate data in combination with species- and variety-specific ecophysiological constants can be used to assist in decisions on which trees to plant on a given site.
Detection and characterizacion of Colombian wetlands using Alos Palsar and MODIS imagery
Authors: Estupinan-Suarez L.M. , Florez-Ayala C. , Quinones M.J. , Pacheco A.M. , Santos A.C.
Published: April 2015

Abstract. Wetlands regulate the flow of water and play a key role in risk management of extreme flooding and drought. In Colombia, wetland conservation has been a priority for the government. However, there is an information gap neither an inventory nor a national baseline map exists. In this paper, we present a method that combines a wetlands thematic map with remote sensing derived data, and hydrometeorological stations data in order to characterize the Colombian wetlands. Following the adopted definition of wetlands, available spatial data on land forms, soils and vegetation was integrated in order to characterize spatially the occurrence of wetlands. This data was then complemented with remote sensing derived data from active and passive sensors. A flood frequency map derived from dense time series analysis of the ALOS PALSAR FBD /FBS data (2007-2010) at 50m resolution was used to analyse the recurrence of flooding. In this map, flooding under the canopy and open water classes could be mapped due to the capabilities of the L-band radar. In addition, MODIS NDVI profiles (2007-2012) were used to characterize temporally water mirrors and vegetation, founding different patterns at basin levels. Moreover, the Colombian main basins were analysed and typified based on hydroperiods, highlighting different hydrological regimes within each basin. The combination of thematic maps, SAR data, optical imagery and hydrological data provided information on the spatial and temporal dynamics of wetlands at regional scales. Our results provide the first validated baseline wetland map for Colombia, this way providing valuable information for ecosystem management.
A proper Land Cover and Forest Type Classification Scheme for Mexico
Authors: Gebhardt S. , Maeda P. , Wehrmann T. , Argumedo Espinoza J. , Schmidt M.
Published: April 2015

Abstract. The imminent implementation of a REDD+ MRV system in Mexico in 2015, demanding operational annual land cover change reporting, requires highly accurate, annual and high resolution forest type maps; not only for monitoring but also to establish the historical baseline from the 1990s onwards. The employment of any supervised classifier demands exhaustive definition of land cover classes and the representation of all classes in the training stage. This paper reports the process of a data driven class separability analysis and the definition and application of a national land cover classification scheme. All Landsat data recorded over Mexico in the year 2000 with cloud coverage below 10 percent and a national digital elevation model have been used. Automatic wall-2-wall image classification has been performed trained by national reference data on land use and vegetation types with 66 classes. Validation has been performed against field plots of the national forest inventory. Groups of non-separable classes have subsequently been discerned by automatic iterative class aggregation. Class aggregations have finally been manually revised and modified towards a proposed national land cover classification scheme at 4 levels with 35 classes at the highest level including 13 classes for primary temperate and tropical forests, 2 classes for secondary temperate and tropical forest, 1 for induced or cultivated forest, as also 8 different scrubland classes. The remaining 11 classes cover agriculture, grassland, wetland, water bodies, urban and other vegetation land cover classes. The remaining 3 levels provide further hierarchic aggregations with 14, 10, and 8 classes, respectively. Trained by the relabeled training dataset wall-2-wall classification towards the 35 classes has been performed. The final national land cover dataset has been validated against more than 200,000 polygons randomly distributed all over the country with class labels derived by manual interpretation. The agreement for all 35 classes at level 4 was 71%. Primary forest classes have been identified with accuracies between 60% and 83%. Secondary forest classes rated only 50% finding major confusion with the primary forest classes. Accuracies over the scrubland classes have been calculated between 60% and 90%. Agreements for aggregated temperate and tropical forest classes was 85% and 80%, respectively. Separation of forest and non-forest has been achieved with an agreement of 87%.
Utilizing the Global Land Cover 2000 reference dataset for a comparative accuracy assessment of 1 km global land cover maps
Authors: Schultz M. , Tsendbazazr N. E. , Herold M. , Jung M. , Mayaux P. , Goehman H.
Published: April 2015

Abstract. Many investigators use global land cover (GLC) maps for different purposes, such as an input for global climate models. The current GLC maps used for such purposes are based on different remote sensing data, methodologies and legends. Consequently, comparison of GLC maps is difficult and information about their relative utility is limited. The objective of this study is to analyse and compare the thematic accuracies of GLC maps (i.e., IGBP-DISCover, UMD, MODIS, GLC2000 and SYNMAP) at 1 km resolutions by (a) re-analysing the GLC2000 reference dataset, (b) applying a generalized GLC legend and (c) comparing their thematic accuracies at different homogeneity levels. The accuracy assessment was based on the GLC2000 reference dataset with 1253 samples that were visually interpreted. The legends of the GLC maps and the reference datasets were harmonized into 11 general land cover classes. There results show that the map accuracy estimates vary up to 10-16% depending on the homogeneity of the reference point (HRP) for all the GLC maps. An increase of the HRP resulted in higher overall accuracies but reduced accuracy confidence for the GLC maps due to less number of accountable samples. The overall accuracy of the SYNMAP was the highest at any HRP level followed by the GLC2000. The overall accuracies of the maps also varied by up to 10% depending on the definition of agreement between the reference and map categories in heterogeneous landscape. A careful consideration of heterogeneous landscape is therefore recommended for future accuracy assessments of land cover maps.
OPERATIONAL 333m BIOPHYSICAL PRODUCTS OF THE COPERNICUS GLOBAL LAND SERVICE FOR AGRICULTURE MONITORING
Authors: Lacaze R. , Smets B. , Baret F. , Weiss M. , Ramon D. , Montersleet B. , Wandrebeck L. , Calvet J.-C. , Roujean J.-L. , Camacho F.
Published: April 2015

Abstract. The Copernicus Global Land service provides continuously a set of bio-geophysical variables describing, over the whole globe, the vegetation dynamic, the energy budget at the continental surface and some components of the water cycle. These generic products serve numerous applications including agriculture and food security monitoring. The portfolio of the Copernicus Global Land service contains Essential Climate Variables like the Leaf Area Index (LAI), the Fraction of PAR absorbed by the vegetation (FAPAR), the surface albedo, the Land Surface Temperature, the soil moisture, the burnt areas, the areas of water bodies, and additional vegetation indices. They are generated every hour, every day or every 10 days on a reliable automatic basis from Earth Observation satellite data. Beside this timely production, the available historical archives have been processed, using the same innovative algorithms, to get consistent time series as long as possible. All products are accessible, free of charge after registration through FTP/HTTP (http://land.copernicus.eu/global/) and through the GEONETCast satellite distribution system. The evolution of the service towards the operations at 333m resolution is partly supported by the FP7/ImagineS project which focuses on the retrieval of LAI, FAPAR, fraction of vegetation cover and surface albedo from PROBA-V sensor data. The paper presents the innovations of the 333m biophysical products, make an overview of their current status, and introduce the next steps of the evolution of the Copernicus Global Land service.
Assessment of Large Scale Land Cover Change Classifications and Drivers of Deforestation in Indonesia
Authors: Wijaya A. , Sugardiman Budiharto R. A. , Tosiani A. , Murdiyarso D. , Verchot L.V.
Published: April 2015

Abstract. Indonesia possesses the third largest tropical forests coverage following Brazilian Amazon and Congo Basin regions. This country, however, suffered from the highest deforestation rate surpassing deforestation in the Brazilian Amazon in 2012. National capacity for forest change assessment and monitoring has been well-established in Indonesia and the availability of national forest inventory data could largely assist the country to report their forest carbon stocks and change over more than two decades. This work focuses for refining forest cover change mapping and deforestation estimate at national scale applying over 10,000 scenes of Landsat scenes, acquired in 1990, 1996, 2000, 2003, 2006, 2009, 2011 and 2012. Pre-processing of the data includes, geometric corrections and image mosaicking. The classification of mosaic Landsat data used multi-stage visual observation approaches, verified using ground observations and comparison with other published materials. There are 23 land cover classes identified from land cover data, presenting spatial information of forests, agriculture, plantations, non-vegetated lands and other land use categories. We estimated the magnitude of forest cover change and assessed drivers of forest cover change over time. Forest change trajectories analysis was also conducted to observe dynamics of forest cover across time. This study found that careful interpretations of satellite data can provide reliable information on forest cover and change. Deforestation trend in Indonesia was lower in 2000-2012 compared to 1990-2000 periods. We also found that over 50% of forests loss in 1990 remains unproductive in 2012. Major drivers of forest conversion in Indonesia range from shrubs/open land, subsistence agriculture, oil palm expansion, plantation forest and mining. The results were compared with other available datasets and we obtained that the MOF data yields reliable estimate of deforestation.
Automatic Generation Of Training Data For Hyperspectral Image Classification Using Support Vector Machine
Authors: Abbasi B. , Arefi H. , Bigdeli B. , Roessner S.
Published: April 2015

Abstract. An image classification method based on Support Vector Machine (SVM) is proposed on hyperspectral and 3K DSM data. To obtain training data we applied an automatic method relating to four classes namely; building, grass, tree, and ground pixels. First, some initial segments regarding to building, tree, grass, and ground pixels are produced using different feature descriptors. The feature descriptors are generated using optical (hyperspectral) as well as range (3K DSM) images. The initial building regions are created using DSM segmentation. Fusion of NDVI and elevation information assist us to provide initial segments regarding to the grass and tree areas. Also, we created initial segment regarding to ground pixel after geodesic based filtering of DSM and elimination of the non-ground pixels. To improve classification accuracy, the hyperspectral image and 3K DSM were utilized simultaneously to perform image classification. For obtaining testing data, labelled pixels was divide into two parts: test and training. Experimental result shows a final classification accuracy of about 90% using Support Vector Machine. In the process of satellite image classification; provided by 3K camera. Both datasets correspond to Munich area in Germany.
Cloud Optimized Image Format and Compression
Authors: Becker P. , Plesea L. , Maurer T.
Published: April 2015

Abstract. Cloud based image storage and processing requires revaluation of formats and processing methods. For the true value of the massive volumes of earth observation data to be realized, the image data needs to be accessible from the cloud. Traditional file formats such as TIF and NITF were developed in the hay day of the desktop and assumed fast low latency file access. Other formats such as JPEG2000 provide for streaming protocols for pixel data, but still require a server to have file access. These concepts no longer truly hold in cloud based elastic storage and computation environments. This paper will provide details of a newly evolving image storage format (MRF) and compression that is optimized for cloud environments. Although the cost of storage continues to fall for large data volumes, there is still significant value in compression. For imagery data to be used in analysis and exploit the extended dynamic range of the new sensors, lossless or controlled lossy compression is of high value. Compression decreases the data volumes stored and reduces the data transferred, but the reduced data size must be balanced with the CPU required to decompress. The paper also outlines a new compression algorithm (LERC) for imagery and elevation data that optimizes this balance. Advantages of the compression include its simple to implement algorithm that enables it to be efficiently accessed using JavaScript. Combing this new cloud based image storage format and compression will help resolve some of the challenges of big image data on the internet.
Phenological tracking og agricultural feilds investigated by using dual polarimetry tanDEM-X images
Authors: Mirzaee S. , Motagh M. , Arefi H. , Nooryazdan A.
Published: April 2015

Abstract. Remote sensing plays a key role in monitoring and assessing environmental changes. Because of its special imaging characteristics such as high-resolution, capabilities to obtain data in all weather conditions and sensitivity to geometrical and dielectric properties of the features, Synthetic Aperture Radar (SAR) technology has become a powerful technique to detect small scale changes related to earth surface.SAR images contain the information of both phase and intensity in different modes like single, dual and full polarimetric states which are important in order to extract information about various targets. In this study we investigate phenological changes in an agricultural region using high-resolution X-band SAR data. The case study is located in Doroud region of Lorestan province, west of Iran. The purpose is to investigate the ability of copolar and interferometric coherence extracted from TanDEM-X dual polarimetry (HH/VV) in bistatic StripMap mode for tracking the phenological changes of crops during growing season. The data include 11 images acquired between 12.06.2012 and 02.11.2012 and 6 images acquired between 30.05.2013 and 04.08.2013 in the CoSSC format. Results show that copolar coherence is almost able to follow phenological changes but interferometric coherence has a near constant behaviour with fluctuations mainly related to baseline variations.
Long-term monitoring of a deep-seated, slow-moving landslide by mean of C-band and X-band advanced interferometric products: the Corvara in Badia case study (Dolomites, Italy)
Authors: Mulas M. , Petitta M. , Corsini A. , Schneiderbauer S. , Mair F. V. , Iasio C.
Published: April 2015

Abstract. The availability of data from various Synthetic Aperture Radar (SAR) operating in X-Band and C-Band acquired in the last decades enables to monitor slopes affected by landslides. The ASI-founded project ‘LAWINA’ (2010 – 2012) aimed at the improvement of SAR – based monitoring techniques as well as at the integration of SAR data with data stemming from other sensors. Test case area of LAWINA has been a slow-moving landslide located up-stream of Corvara in Badia village in the Dolomites, Italy. Within the scope of the project different time-series obtained through 35 Envisat2, 40 Radarsat-1 and 46 Cosmo-SkyMed covering this test area have been processed in order to explore the potentials to analyse historical and near real time landslide dynamics. The SAR data are characterized by various geometric and temporal resolutions having been acquired by 3 sensors operating at different bands in different periods between 2003 and 2011. TeleRilevamento Europa (TRE) exploited these data in order to retrive displacement timeseries applying its proprietary SqueeSAR algorithm. After re-projecting Envisat-2 and Radarsat datasets according to the CSK Line Of Sight a comparison of displacements recorded by each sensor has been possible. For this purpose, we have selected areas characterized by the presence of Persistent Scatterers or Diffused Scatterers from at least two datasets. This multi-sensor approach allowed determining the slope displacement tracking during 8 years. Even though the different time series are not formally integrated each other, the result is accurate enough to allow the evaluation of the landslide’s behaviour and trend over several years.
Data Collection for Disaster Response from the International Space Station
Authors: Stefanov W. L. , Evans C. A.
Published: April 2015

Abstract. Remotely sensed data acquired by orbital sensor systems has emerged as a vital tool to identify the extent of damage resulting from a natural disaster, as well as providing near-real time mapping support to response efforts on the ground and humanitarian aid efforts. The International Space Station (ISS) is a unique terrestrial remote sensing platform for acquiring disaster response imagery. Unlike automated remote-sensing platforms it has a human crew; is equipped with both internal and externally-mounted remote sensing instruments; and has an inclined, low-Earth orbit that provides variable views and lighting (day and night) over 90 percent of the inhabited surface of the Earth. As such, it provides a useful complement to autonomous sensor systems in higher altitude polar orbits. NASA remote sensing assets on the station began collecting International Charter, Space and Major Disasters, also known informally as the International Disaster Charter (IDC) response data in May 2012. Since the start of IDC response in 2012, and as of late March 2015, there have been 123 IDC activations; NASA sensor systems have collected data for thirty-four of these events. Of the successful data collections, eight involved two or more ISS sensor systems responding to the same event. Data has also been collected by International Partners in response to natural disasters, most notably JAXA and Roscosmos/Energia through the Urugan program.
The use of SAR interferometry for landslide mapping in the Indian Himalayas
Authors: Vöge M. , Frauenfelder R. , Ekseth K. , Arora M. K. , Bhattacharya A. , Basin R. K.
Published: April 2015

Abstract. The aim of the here presented research was to investigate the potential of two-pass differential InSAR, and advanced DInSAR techniques, such as Small Baseline Subset (SBAS) and Persistent Scatterers (PS) interferometry, in order to detect and monitor the temporal behaviour of surface deformations in selected areas of the Garhwal and Kumaon Himalaya. We present results from the surroundings of the town of Nainital, from the Mansa Devi Hills area, and the areas around the cities of Chamoli Gopeshwar and Joshimath.
ANALYSES OF MULTI-YEAR SYNTHETIC APERTURE RADAR IMAGERY OF DRY-FALLEN INTERTIDAL FLATS
Authors: Gade M. , Melchionna S. , Kemme L.
Published: April 2015

Abstract. We analyzed a great deal of high-resolution Synthetic Aperture Radar (SAR) data of dry-fallen intertidal flats in the German Wadden Sea with respect to the imaging of sediments, macrophytes, and mussels. TerraSAR-X and Radarsat-2 images of five test areas along the German North Sea coast acquired between 2008 and 2013 form the basis for the present investigation and are used to demonstrate that pairs of SAR images, if combined through basic algebraic operations, can already provide useful indicators for morphological changes and for bivalve (oyster and mussel) beds. Depending on the type of sediment, but also on the water level and on environmental conditions (wind speed) exposed sediments may show up on SAR imagery as areas of enhanced, or reduced, radar backscattering. The (multi-temporal) analysis of series of such images allows for the detection of mussel beds, and our results show evidence that also single-acquisition, multi-polarization SAR imagery can be used for that purpose.
Simultaneous solution for mass trends on the West Antarctic Ice Sheet
Authors: Schoen N. , Zammit-Mangion A. , Rougier J. C. , Flament T. , Rémy F. , Luthcke S. , Bamber J. L.
Published: April 2015

Abstract. The Antarctic Ice Sheet is the largest potential source of future sea-level rise. Mass loss has been increasing over the last 2 decades for the West Antarctic Ice Sheet (WAIS) but with significant discrepancies between estimates, especially for the Antarctic Peninsula. Most of these estimates utilise geophysical models to explicitly correct the observations for (unobserved) processes. Systematic errors in these models introduce biases in the results which are difficult to quantify. In this study, we provide a statistically rigorous error-bounded trend estimate of ice mass loss over the WAIS from 2003 to 2009 which is almost entirely data driven. Using altimetry, gravimetry, and GPS data in a hierarchical Bayesian framework, we derive spatial fields for ice mass change, surface mass balance, and glacial isostatic adjustment (GIA) without relying explicitly on forward models. The approach we use separates mass and height change contributions from different processes, reproducing spatial features found in, for example, regional climate and GIA forward models, and provides an independent estimate which can be used to validate and test the models. In addition, spatial error estimates are derived for each field. The mass loss estimates we obtain are smaller than some recent results, with a time-averaged mean rate of −76 ± 15 Gt yr−1 for the WAIS and Antarctic Peninsula, including the major Antarctic islands. The GIA estimate compares well with results obtained from recent forward models (IJ05-R2) and inverse methods (AGE-1). The Bayesian framework is sufficiently flexible that it can, eventually, be used for the whole of Antarctica, be adapted for other ice sheets and utilise data from other sources such as ice cores, accumulation radar data, and other measurements that contain information about any of the processes that are solved for.
Collection Assessment and the Library Liaison Program: A Practical Focus
Authors: Brennan David
Published: April 2015

In the fall of 2013, the George T. Harrell Health Sciences Library (HHSL) undertook a collection assessment and development project to determine journal and monograph holdings across the Penn State University Libraries in subject areas related to librarian liaison assignments in the health sciences at Penn State Hershey. This project had several aims: a) to assist in collection development activities by showing current journal and monograph holdings in relation to liaison areas in a way related to the strategic plans of the HHSL, the medical center, and University Libraries; b) to inform library users of holdings and improve access; and c) to assist liaison librarians in acquiring a more complete understanding of core resources in their liaison areas. This article presents the process involved in the assessment and development project, connections with relevant areas of the strategic plans, and areas for further improvement.
Pseudoplectania lignicola sp. nov. described from central Europe
Authors: Glejdura S. , Kučera V. , Lizoň P. , Kunca V.
Published: April 2015

A new species from Slovakia and the Czech Republic, Pseudoplectania lignicola, is described and illustrated. It is distinguished from other members of the genus by a centrally arranged globose membranous sheath surrounding the spores, thick ectal excipulum of oblong cells at
the apothecial base, and growth on less specifc biotopes. Comparisons with similar species and the diagnostic signifcance of membranous sheath surrounding the ascospores are also discussed.
Myxomycetes of Sonora (Mexico) 6. Central plains of the Sonoran Desert
Authors: Lizárraga Marcos , Moreno Gabriel , Esqueda Martín , Salazar-Márquez Cynthia , Coronado Martha L.
Published: April 2015

Myxomycetes from 10 localities in the central plains of the Sonoran desert were studied using the moist chamber culture technique. Thirty-three species have been identified, of which five (Comatricha mirabilis, Cribraria confusa, Didymium eremophilum, Perichaena luteola, and
P. stipitata) represent new records for Sonora, and Comatricha mirabilis is cited for the first time from Mexico. Light and scanning electron microphotographs illustrate the most diagnostic characters of these species, which are rare or scarcely mentioned in the literature.
Bertia hainanensis sp. nov. (Coronophorales) from southern China
Authors: Vasilyeva Larissa N. , Ma Hai-Xia , Chernyshev Aleksey V. , Stephenson Steven L.
Published: April 2015

A new species of Bertia collected in southern China is described and illustrated. Bertia hainanensis is characterized by a combination of such features as non-ostiolate ascomata with a roughened tuberculate surface, 1-septate cylindrical-geniculate ascospores, and filiform
paraphyses. It is most similar to B. tropicalis, from which it differs by its narrower ascospores and its filiform paraphyses. The distinctive features of the ascomatal surface were examined with a scanning electron microscope. The validity of the family Bertiaceae is discussed.
Rosellinia brunneola sp. nov. and R. beccariana new to China
Authors: Li Wei , Guo Lin
Published: April 2015

A new species, Rosellinia brunneola, is described from Hainan Province, China; and Rosellinia beccariana from Yunnan Province is described as new to China.
The lichen genus Leiorreuma in China
Authors: Wang Xiao-Hua , Xu Li-Li , Jia Ze-Feng
Published: April 2015

Four species of Leiorreuma (Graphidaceae, Ostropales) are reported from China. Leiorreuma crassimarginatum is new to science, and L. dilatatum and L. melanostalazans are new to China. Descriptions accompany a key distinguishing the four Leiorreuma
species in China. All materials are conserved in HMAS-L.
AFLP characterization of three argentine Coprotus species
Authors: Ramos Araceli Marcela , Tadic Luis Franco , Policelli Nahuel , Ferreyra Laura Ines , Cinto Isabel Esther
Published: April 2015

AFLP methodology was applied to characterize three Coprotus species (C. lacteus, C. niveus, C. sexdecimsporus) so as to estimate the levels of polymorphism within species, to analyze the phenetic relationships among them, and to contrast the AFLP findings to those of a
previous RAPD study. The high number of AFLP bands obtained with the six assayed primers allowed us to detect intra-specific variability. The genetic variability within species obtained using AFLP (measured in terms of percentage of polymorphic loci) was two to three times higher than those
obtained by RAPD. The phenograms generated by AFLP markers grouped all strains of the same species into three defined clusters, and a higher association between C. lacteus and C. sexdecimsporus was also observed. The AFLP technique could become a powerful tool for genera such
as Coprotus, in which a high intra-specific homogeneity does not allow detection of genetic variability using other PCR-based markers.
Coccomyces neolitseae sp. nov. from Zhangjiajie, China
Authors: Li Qing , Chen Yu-Xia , Zheng Chun-Tao , Lu Dan-Dan , Lin Ying-Ren
Published: April 2015

A fungus found on leaves of Neolitsea levinei from the Zhangjiajie National Forest Park in Hunan Province, China, is described as Coccomyces neolitseae. A description, illustration, and comments are given for this taxon. The type specimen is deposited in the Reference
Collection of Forest Fungi of Anhui Agricultural University, China (AAUF).
Coccomyces prominens sp. nov. (Rhytismataceae) on Rhododendron coeloneurum in China
Authors: Xu Ya-Fei , Wu Yuan , Meng Yan-Qiong , Wang Shi-Juan , Lin Ying-Ren
Published: April 2015

A fungus found on leaves of Rhododendron coeloneurum from Garze prefecture (Sichuan Province), China, is described as Coccomyces prominens. The new species is similar to C. urceoloides but differs by its much larger intraepidermal ascomata and the presence of conidiomata.
The type specimen is deposited in the Reference Collection of Forest Fungi of Anhui Agricultural University, China (AAUF).
Teaching writing in Qatari early years education: the perceptions of early childhood teachers
Authors: Ihmeideh Fathi , Al-Maadadi Fatima
Published: April 2015

The present study aimed at 1) exploring early childhood teachers’ perceptions about teaching writing in Qatari early years settings, and 2) identifying the impact of several social-demographics variables on these views. To achieve the objectives of the study, a reliable and validated self-administrated questionnaire was utilized.

Early Childhood teachers from private and independent schools in Doha voluntarily participated in the study. Results indicated that early childhood teachers expressed positive views regarding teaching writing in Qatari early years’ settings and their views were in line with recent theories and practices in teaching writing in early years’ education. Moreover, the results showed statistical significant differences due to a number of study variables.

These results were discussed and implications for supporting teaching writing in early years’ settings were presented accordingly.
The importance of female participation in education and academia in Qatar and the reflection of society
Authors: Zeineddine Cornelia , Heider Abeer
Published: April 2015

The paper draws upon the educational system in Qatar with a special focus on the female populace attending higher education and its development in the last 10 years. As the percentage of females who work in the academia in Qatar (Qatar University, Qatar Foundation) is rather high (outshines the number of males), we find it important to analyse the women’s experiences and achievements in higher education in Qatar. . The paper uses samples of Qatari female students who want to work in academia after the completion of their studies. At the same time, it inquires Qatari academic women about the difficulty and challenges of being an academic in this specific place, leading to findings pertinent to education in Qatar and the role of education and the dimension of education when it comes to the development of a country. For example, it explores the implications of this massive and rapid expansion of higher education in the GCC states, and how initiatives in education, as example Qatar's WISE (the World Innovation Summit for Education) seek to do for education what Davos does for economics, projecting Qatar’s global and regional influence. Therefore, we look further into the incentives universities give to females and facilities provided to them in order to work as academics or continue their studies (i.e. Post Graduate/Doctoral Studies), taking as case study: Qatar University. The analysis concludes with an outline of successful female professors who are at the forefront of the country’s development, combat radical thinking, work for global understanding, and build bridges using their knowledge. Scholars recognize that they play a greater role than that of the institutions seeking to impart knowledge. They are at the same time advocates for making sense, social transformation, and global engagement. This paper highlights the tremendous progress made, while presenting supporting evidence relevant to key questions in this pursuit
Flipped learning for educational excellence from teachers' point of view
Authors: Abuhmaid Atef
Published: April 2015

The rapid developments in technology makes it a must for educators to figure ways in which these tools can be utilized for educational excellence. The availability of various tools can mount pressure on teachers and other education stakeholders to weave such tools into everyday practices of educational institutions in order to transform education to become more relevant and effective. The new technologies have also paved the way for new trends and models in education. Currently, the “Flipped Learning” is gaining increasing attention because of its powerful idea of making efficient utilization of both students’ and teachers’ time in schools and homes. The model is based on promising ideas such as competency learning, increasing interaction and collaboration between students and teachers, saving teacher’s time, helping all kinds of students to excel especially students with special needs, and helping students to reach higher order thinking. However, earlier educational initiatives have proven to be complex and their implementations are challenging due to the various factors that might interfere with the implementation process. The aim of the current study was to investigate the experience of three Jordanian schools which implemented the Flipped Learning model from teachers’ point of view as they are the ultimate implementers of any educational initiatives. The study employs questionnaires for collecting data from 120 teachers who were active implementers of the Flipped Learning model in the participating schools. The findings of the study are expected to shed the light on several factors that can derail the Flipped Learning projects as well as factors that can facilitate its implementation which can provide guidelines for other schools that are trying to adopt this model.
Forging partnerships for excellence through service learning
Authors: Wilczenski Felicia L.
Published: April 2015

Service learning is a powerful teaching method that connects meaningful community service
with academic learning, personal growth, civic responsibility, and reflective experience.
Partnering with communities to support learning goals through service provides opportunities to
design instruction that is engaging, multifaceted, and flexible to meet individual student needs.
Scientific reading in Qatari preparatory independent schools
Authors: Al Sabbagh Samah , Reynolds Dudley , Allen Nancy , Ellili Maha
Published: April 2015

Qatar’s educational reform has been in progress for over ten years, and its many changes have affected reading programs and thus students’ reading achievement. One important change was the language of instruction in mathematics and science; students who were previously taught science in Arabic had to switch to English as the new language of instruction. Two years ago, another decision was taken by the Supreme Education Council to change the language of instruction from English back to Arabic for mathematics and science. The change in the language of instruction made scientific reading in both languages more challenging and less appealing for students. Students within Qatar’s public system are finding it difficult to read, and even those who do read are usually reading by sounding out words but not necessarily understanding the overall meaning of the passage they are reading. It is important to look at how students are being taught reading since the way they are taught has an important role in how students read.

This empirical study used surveys, questionnaires, read-aloud protocols and classroom observations to assess students’ reading abilities and comprehension and the teachers’ use of reading strategies within the classroom. This three-year study collected data from 12 preparatory independent schools (6 boys and 6 girls) to identify whether or not students do in fact have a problem with reading. To measure the effect that the reform had on students’ reading, we sampled schools from across cohorts since earlier cohort i.e. cohort 1 to 4 are all generations that had been using English as the language of instruction for a longer time than later cohorts (i.e., cohorts six and seven). We also choose to use two scientific articles related to a topic in the science curriculum, in both Arabic and English in order to look at whether students’ reading abilities varied between reading in Arabic and/or English. To explore the instructional aspect carried out inside the classroom, we surveyed teachers on their teaching of reading practices and observed lessons later on for verification. The findings led to important conclusions about how reading is taught and learned in Qatar’s preparatory schools.
Self-assessment resource for EAL pre-service and in-service teachers and EAL K-16 educators in the MENA region
Authors: Midraj Sadiq , Dada Robin , Midraj Jessica
Published: April 2015

The purpose of this session is to describe and share sample items of a contextually relevant resource developed specifically for English as an Additional Language (EAL) student-teachers and EAL teachers in the Middle East and North Africa (MENA). Fifteen EAL and teacher/education academics created, reviewed and piloted the 300 multiple-choice-item resource. The resource supports teachers’ lifelong learning and measures their progress in applying strategies, methods, and theories in EAL teaching/learning in the five TESOL International domains: language foundations, culture, instruction, assessment and professionalism (2010). The resource supports EAL outcomes-based curricula and reinforces independent learning and self-assessment to improve EAL professional content knowledge, professional pedagogical skills and professional disposition. If used effectively, the self-assessment resource can be a powerful learning tool. This resource allows EAL student teachers and EAL teachers to engage in self assessing in a non-threatening environment. As a practice tool, it assists in identifying areas of strengths and challenges, and becomes a road map for their autonomous learning endeavors. The audience for this session includes K-12 pre-service and in-service ESL teachers seeking professional development and/or teacher certification, EAL K-16 ESL instructors, EAL curriculum and assessment specialists, accreditation managers and EAL programs administrators.
Developing a purposeful and robust assessment system for multi-section courses
Authors: Midraj Jessica , Midraj Sadiq
Published: April 2015

This session is highlights ways in which programs can adhere to aspects of quality assessment systems with multi-section courses and multiple teachers implementing common learning outcomes. Effective educational assessment systems are coherent, comprehensive, and continuous (The National Research Council, 2001). Educational assessment communicates to learners and other stakeholders how well students achieve the stated learning outcomes of a particular course/program. Results can be used for a multitude of purposes; therefore, it is essential that educational assessment systems are purposeful and robust. They should provide an appropriate balance of assessment practices that yields the most valid and reliable information about students' learning while having positive washback into the classroom. The presenters draw on research and practical experience from two different cases within a university setting to frame recommended measures to develop a purposeful and robust assessment system. The session discusses different ways to structure assessment systems, the role of assessment in ensuring common learning outcomes are met, and the impact of structured assessment systems on learning, instruction, and formal evaluation.