bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Integrating BIM with BMS in Energy Performance Assessment
Authors: Reginald Ajiero Ikenna
Published: March 2015

In recent times, energy performance assessment has gained a legislative imperative in that it constitutes an indispensable criterion for preparing Energy Performance Certificates (EPCs). Accordingly, production of EPC which is heralded by energy audits and simulations using BIM software programs heavily depends on data accuracy. Whereas, there have been several studies on Building Information Modelling (BIM) and Building Management System (BMS) autonomously, peer reviewed literature on both regimes in concert, remain unavailable or perhaps emerging; thus, constituting a gap in the use of BIM for energy analysis. Against this background, a university administrative building with a Gross Floor Area (GFA) of 2353.91m2 has been the object of a comprehensive energy performance assessment. The principal aim being to use data collected from BMS readings to assess the building's energy performance, produce its EPC and highlight energy conservation strategies that will improve the building's productivity without compromising occupants' comfort. This study therefore attempts to put the teeming theoretical efforts on BIM in energy management into a practical perspective.
A Feasibility Study on Occupants' Behaviour and Energy Usage Patterns and Its Potential Integration with Building Information Modelling
Authors: Han Liangxiu , Altan Haşim , Noguchi Masa
Published: March 2015

Understanding how occupants manage their energy use in homes and how their behaviour influence household energy consumption in domestic environments has been challenging. There seems to be several major factors contributing towards achieving optimal performance in designing, constructing and maintaining a sustainable home using Building Information Modelling (BIM) based approaches. This study focuses on investigating the relationship between user behaviour and energy consumption through the in-depth analysis of energy usage patterns collected from a selected affordable terraced house in Prestwick, Scotland, as an initial attempt towards the future integration with BIM systems. For the purpose of this feasibility study, indoor temperature, relative humidity and CO2 sensors, as well as a gas-electricity-water utility monitor were installed in the selected home occupied by a working class nuclear household. The study encompasses the analyses of energy usage patterns in their daily life. It is confirmed that domestic energy consumption is affected by the occupants' presence and behaviour. Moreover, this paper discusses a possibility that the energy prediction approach taken in this study could work alongside BIM systems applied for housing suppliers' design decision-making on the delivery of energy efficient homes of the future.
Coexpression of TIGIT and FCRL3 Identifies Helios+ Human Memory Regulatory T Cells
Authors: Bin Dhuban Khalid , d’Hennezel Eva , Nashi Emil , Bar-Or Amit , Rieder Sadiye , Shevach Ethan M. , Nagata Satoshi , Piccirillo Ciriaco A.
Published: March 2015

Two distinct subsets of CD4+Foxp3+ regulatory T (Treg) cells have been described based on the differential expression of Helios, a transcription factor of the Ikaros family. Efforts to understand the origin and biological roles of these Treg populations in regulating immune responses have, however, been hindered by the lack of reliable surface markers to distinguish and isolate them for subsequent functional studies. Using a single-cell cloning strategy coupled with microarray analysis of different Treg functional subsets in humans, we identify the mRNA and protein expression of TIGIT and FCRL3 as a novel surface marker combination that distinguishes Helios+FOXP3+ from Helios−FOXP3+ memory cells. Unlike conventional markers that are modulated on conventional T cells upon activation, we show that the TIGIT/FCRL3 combination allows reliable identification of Helios+ Treg cells even in highly activated conditions in vitro as well as in PBMCs of autoimmune patients. We also demonstrate that the Helios−FOXP3+ Treg subpopulation harbors a larger proportion of nonsuppressive clones compared with the Helios+FOXP3+ cell subset, which is highly enriched for suppressive clones. Moreover, we find that Helios− cells are exclusively responsible for the productions of the inflammatory cytokines IFN-γ, IL-2, and IL-17 in FOXP3+ cells ex vivo, highlighting important functional differences between Helios+ and Helios− Treg cells. Thus, we identify novel surface markers for the consistent identification and isolation of Helios+ and Helios− memory Treg cells in health and disease, and we further reveal functional differences between these two populations. These new markers should facilitate further elucidation of the functional roles of Helios-based Treg heterogeneity.
NF-κB Downregulates Cbl-b through Binding and Suppressing Cbl-b Promoter in T Cell Activation
Authors: Liu Yong , Li Yao , Zhang LiMin , Li MingQiang , Li Chao , Xue ChengBiao , Huang Xia , Zhou Ping
Published: March 2015

T cell activation causes the translocation of NF-κB dimers from the cytoplasm into the nucleus where NF-κB regulates inflammatory and immune response genes. Cbl-b is a negative regulator of T cell activation. However, the correlation between NF-κB activity and Cbl-b expression remains unclear. We showed that IκBαΔN-Tg T cells exhibited less NF-κB activity but higher levels of Cbl-b when compared with wild-type T cells. Furthermore, ursolic acid suppressed NF-κB activation and inhibited the downregulation of Cbl-b in wild-type T cells. NF-κBp65 specifically bound to an 11-bp NF-κB consensus sequence (gcaggaagtcc) in the Cbl-b promoter. Binding of NF-κB to this sequence suppressed Cbl-b transcription, thereby resulting in the negative regulation of Cbl-b expression. In addition, Cbl-b knockout led to the loss of cardiac allograft tolerance in IκBαΔN-Tg mice. These results indicated that NF-κB downregulated Cbl-b by binding and suppressing Cbl-b promoter in T cell activation. Our findings provide a novel role for NF-κB signaling in T cell activation.
Deficiency of MALT1 Paracaspase Activity Results in Unbalanced Regulatory and Effector T and B Cell Responses Leading to Multiorgan Inflammation
Authors: Bornancin Frédéric , Renner Florian , Touil Ratiba , Sic Heiko , Kolb Yeter , Touil-Allaoui Ismahane , Rush James S. , Smith Paul A. , Bigaud Marc , Junker-Walker Ursula , Burkhart Christoph , Dawson Janet , Niwa Satoru , Katopodis Andreas , Nuesslein-Hildesheim Barbara , Weckbecker Gisbert , Zenke Gerhard , Kinzel Bernd , Traggiai Elisabetta , Brenner Dirk , Brüstle Anne , St. Paul Michael , Zamurovic Natasa , McCoy Kathy D. , Rolink Antonius , Régnier Catherine H. , Mak Tak W. , Ohashi Pamela S. , Patel Dhavalkumar D. , Calzascia Thomas
Published: March 2015

The paracaspase MALT1 plays an important role in immune receptor-driven signaling pathways leading to NF-κB activation. MALT1 promotes signaling by acting as a scaffold, recruiting downstream signaling proteins, as well as by proteolytic cleavage of multiple substrates. However, the relative contributions of these two different activities to T and B cell function are not well understood. To investigate how MALT1 proteolytic activity contributes to overall immune cell regulation, we generated MALT1 protease-deficient mice (Malt1PD/PD) and compared their phenotype with that of MALT1 knockout animals (Malt1−/−). Malt1PD/PD mice displayed defects in multiple cell types including marginal zone B cells, B1 B cells, IL-10–producing B cells, regulatory T cells, and mature T and B cells. In general, immune defects were more pronounced in Malt1−/− animals. Both mouse lines showed abrogated B cell responses upon immunization with T-dependent and T-independent Ags. In vitro, inactivation of MALT1 protease activity caused reduced stimulation-induced T cell proliferation, impaired IL-2 and TNF-α production, as well as defective Th17 differentiation. Consequently, Malt1PD/PD mice were protected in a Th17-dependent experimental autoimmune encephalomyelitis model. Surprisingly, Malt1PD/PD animals developed a multiorgan inflammatory pathology, characterized by Th1 and Th2/0 responses and enhanced IgG1 and IgE levels, which was delayed by wild-type regulatory T cell reconstitution. We therefore propose that the pathology characterizing Malt1PD/PD animals arises from an immune imbalance featuring pathogenic Th1- and Th2/0-skewed effector responses and reduced immunosuppressive compartments. These data uncover a previously unappreciated key function of MALT1 protease activity in immune homeostasis and underline its relevance in human health and disease.
K+ Efflux Agonists Induce NLRP3 Inflammasome Activation Independently of Ca2+ Signaling
Authors: Katsnelson Michael A. , Rucker L. Graham , Russo Hana M. , Dubyak George R.
Published: March 2015

Perturbation of intracellular ion homeostasis is a major cellular stress signal for activation of NLRP3 inflammasome signaling that results in caspase-1–mediated production of IL-1β and pyroptosis. However, the relative contributions of decreased cytosolic K+ concentration versus increased cytosolic Ca2+ concentration ([Ca2+]) remain disputed and incompletely defined. We investigated roles for elevated cytosolic [Ca2+] in NLRP3 activation and downstream inflammasome signaling responses in primary murine dendritic cells and macrophages in response to two canonical NLRP3 agonists (ATP and nigericin) that facilitate primary K+ efflux by mechanistically distinct pathways or the lysosome-destabilizing agonist Leu-Leu-O-methyl ester. The study provides three major findings relevant to this unresolved area of NLRP3 regulation. First, increased cytosolic [Ca2+] was neither a necessary nor sufficient signal for the NLRP3 inflammasome cascade during activation by endogenous ATP-gated P2X7 receptor channels, the exogenous bacterial ionophore nigericin, or the lysosomotropic agent Leu-Leu-O-methyl ester. Second, agonists for three Ca2+-mobilizing G protein–coupled receptors (formyl peptide receptor, P2Y2 purinergic receptor, and calcium-sensing receptor) expressed in murine dendritic cells were ineffective as activators of rapidly induced NLRP3 signaling when directly compared with the K+ efflux agonists. Third, the intracellular Ca2+ buffer, BAPTA, and the channel blocker, 2-aminoethoxydiphenyl borate, widely used reagents for disruption of Ca2+-dependent signaling pathways, strongly suppressed nigericin-induced NLRP3 inflammasome signaling via mechanisms dissociated from their canonical or expected effects on Ca2+ homeostasis. The results indicate that the ability of K+ efflux agonists to activate NLRP3 inflammasome signaling can be dissociated from changes in cytosolic [Ca2+] as a necessary or sufficient signal.
IL-12 Promotes Myeloid-Derived Suppressor Cell Recruitment and Bacterial Persistence during Staphylococcus aureus Orthopedic Implant Infection
Authors: Heim Cortney E. , Vidlak Debbie , Scherr Tyler D. , Hartman Curtis W. , Garvin Kevin L. , Kielian Tammy
Published: March 2015

Staphylococcus aureus is a leading cause of human prosthetic joint infections (PJIs) typified by biofilm formation. We recently identified a critical role for myeloid-derived suppressor cells (MDSCs) in S. aureus biofilm persistence. Proinflammatory signals induce MDSC recruitment and activation in tumor models; however, the mechanisms responsible for MDSC homing to sites of biofilm infection are unknown. In this study, we report that several cytokines (IL-12p40, IL-1β, TNF-α, and G-CSF) and chemokines (CXCL2, CCL5) were significantly elevated in a mouse model of S. aureus PJI. This coincided with significantly increased MDSC infiltrates concomitant with reduced monocyte, macrophage, and T cell influx compared with uninfected animals. Of the cytokines detected, IL-12 was of particular interest based on its ability to possess either pro- or anti-inflammatory effects mediated through p35-p40 heterodimers or p40 homodimers, respectively. MDSC recruitment was significantly reduced in both p40 and p35 knockout mice, which resulted in enhanced monocyte and neutrophil influx and bacterial clearance. Adoptive transfer of wild-type MDSCs into infected p40 knockout animals worsened disease outcome, as evidenced by the return of S. aureus burdens to levels typical of wild-type mice. Tissues obtained from patients undergoing revision surgery for PJI revealed similar patterns of immune cell influx, with increased MDSC-like cells and significantly fewer T cells compared with aseptic revisions. These findings reveal a critical role for IL-12 in shaping the anti-inflammatory biofilm milieu by promoting MDSC recruitment.
HkRP3 Is a Microtubule-Binding Protein Regulating Lytic Granule Clustering and NK Cell Killing
Authors: Ham Hyoungjun , Huynh Walter , Schoon Renee A. , Vale Ronald D. , Billadeau Daniel D.
Published: March 2015

NK cells provide host defense by killing viral-infected and cancerous cells through the secretion of preformed lytic granules. Polarization of the lytic granules toward the target cell is dependent on an intact microtubule (MT) network as well as MT motors. We have recently shown that DOCK8, a gene mutated in a primary immunodeficiency syndrome, is involved in NK cell killing in part through its effects on MT organizing center (MTOC) polarization. In this study, we identified Hook-related protein 3 (HkRP3) as a novel DOCK8- and MT-binding protein. We further show that HkRP3 is present in lytic granule fractions and interacts with the dynein motor complex and MTs. Significantly, depletion of HkPR3 impaired NK cell cytotoxicity, which could be attributed to a defect in not only MTOC polarity, but also impaired clustering of lytic granules around the MTOC. Our results demonstrate an important role for HkRP3 in regulating the clustering of lytic granules and MTOC repositioning during the development of NK cell–mediated killing.
A phlebo-lymphology humanitarian trip to Matagalpa, Nicaragua
Authors: Gianesini Sergio , Cavezzi Attilio , Mosti Giovanni , Tessari Lorenzo , Zini Francesco , Urso Simone , Campana Fausto , Tessari Mirko , Dalla Caneva Patrizia , Espinoza Freddy , Rocha Ruth , Neuhardt Diana , Mowatt-Larssen Eric , Zygmunt Joe , Cortesi Susan , Morrison Terri , Morrison Nick
Published: March 2015

Amigos de Salud and Vene e Linfatici Foundation took part in a volunteer medical trip in Nicaragua. A detailed description of the provided healthcare is reported.
A Case of IgG4-Related Hypophysitis Presented with Hypopituitarism and Diabetes Insipidus
Authors: Harano Yumi , Honda Kazufumi , Akiyama Yurika , Kotajima Lisa , Arioka Hiroko
Published: March 2015

Immunoglobulin (Ig) G4-related systemic syndrome is a recently described entity characterized by elevated serum IgG4 and tissue infiltration of IgG4-positive plasma cells. Pituitary gland can be involved as hypophysitis. We report a case of a 72-year-old man, who presented with general fatigue and weakness. Laboratory tests revealed diabetes insipidus as well as hypopituitarism including adrenal insufficiency, hypogonadism, and hypothyroidism. His serum IgG4 was elevated. MR images showed enlargement of the pituitary stalk. Multiple nodules in bilateral kidneys were pointed out in the abdominal CT. Histological examination of the nodules showed increased IgG4-positive plasma cells. We diagnosed him with IgG4-related kidney disease and hypophysitis. After treatment with hydrocortisone, his symptoms improved. The follow-up images showed that almost all renal nodules disappeared and his pituitary stalk was shrinking. Our case appears to be very sensitive to glucocorticoid and suggests the possibility of treating IgG4-related hypophysitis successfully with a lower dose of glucocorticoid.
Planning and Guidance of Cardiac Resynchronization Therapy–Lead Implantation by Evaluating Coronary Venous Anatomy Assessed with Multidetector Computed Tomography
Authors: Catanzaro John N. , Makaryus John N. , Jadonath Ram , Makaryus Amgad N.
Published: March 2015

Objectives

We sought to evaluate the utility of multidetector computed tomography (MDCT) in preoperative planning of cardiac resynchronization therapy (CRT) device implantation.

Background

Variation in coronary venous anatomy can affect optimal lead placement and may warrant preimplantation visualization prior to CRT lead placement.

Methods

Prospective randomized enrollment of 29 patients (17 males; mean age at implant 66.7 ± 12.8 years) was undertaken. Patients were randomized to preimplantation MDCT (GE® 64-detector Lightspeed, n = 16) or no MDCT. Implantation was planned based on three-dimensional coronary venous reconstruction as visualized in the CT group. Measurement of coronary sinus (CS) angulation, CS ostial (os) diameter, right atrial (RA) width, volume, and height was undertaken prior to implant. Intraoperative CS lead implantation times (introduction, cannulation, and left ventricular [LV] lead positioning), procedure time, fluoroscopy time, and venogram contrast volume were measured to determine if there was a difference between patients who underwent preimplant CT scan and those who did not.

Results

CS os diameter (mean = 13.8 ± 2.9 cm) was inversely correlated with total fluoroscopy time ( r = -0.57, P = .008), and total procedure time, but this correlation was not statistically significant ( r = - 0.36, P = 0.12). RA width (mean = 52.8 ± 9.9 cm) was associated with a shorter total procedure time ( r = −0.44, P = .047) and LV lead positioning time ( r = −0.33, P = .012). There were no statistically significant differences between the CT group and the non-CT group with respect to total intraoperative and fluoroscopy times or venogram contrast volumes. Total procedure time was longer in the CT group but the difference was not statistically significant (94 ± 27.2 vs. 74.7 ± 26.6; P = .065).

Conclusion

Noninvasive visualization of the coronary venous anatomy before CRT implantation can be used as a guide for lead placement. While no significant differences were noted between the two groups with respect to intraoperative variables, CS os diameter and RA width inversely correlated to a shorter procedure time and LV lead positioning time, respectively. Further clinical trials regarding the utility of MDCT to visualize coronary venous anatomy prior to CRT implantation for procedural planning and lead placement guidance are warranted.
Sex-Related Differences in Self-Reported Neurocognitive Impairment among High-Risk Cocaine Users in Methadone Maintenance Treatment Program
Authors: Shrestha Roman , Huedo-Medina Tania B. , Copenhaver Michael M.
Published: March 2015

Background

Previous research has suggested possible sex-related differences in executive functioning among cocaine users; however, no studies specifically explain sex-related differences in neurocognitive impairment (NCI) among cocaine users receiving clinical care. Knowledge about this association can aid in the development of targeted prevention strategies to reduce adverse health outcomes. This study was designed to examine the sex-related differences in NCI among high-risk cocaine users receiving substance-abuse treatment.

Methods

The Neuropsychological Impairment Scale (NIS) was administered to 199 cocaine users (98 men; 101 women), receiving methadone maintainance treatment, to assess self-reported NCI by identifying the patients’ awareness of neuropsychological symptoms. We used T-test comparison to find differences in NCI between men and women and multiple regression analysis to explore the relative contribution of sex to NCI.

Results

Consistent with prior work, high NCI was evident within this sample, as indicated by high scores on most of the NIS subscales. Women reported greater impairment than men, as evidenced by significantly higher scores on several NIS subscales, after controlling for demographic and other confounding variables. Interestingly, cocaine craving significantly predicted NCI among men but not among women, as suggested by the significant association between cocaine craving and all except one of the NIS subscales.

Conclusions

These findings suggest that cocaine users enter into treatment with a range of NCI – with women having significantly more neurocognitive deficits than men – that may contribute to differential treatment outcomes. This highlights the need to include additional services such as neuropsychological screening and sex-specific treatment programs to optimally reduce adverse health outcomes in these high-risk, cognitively impaired patients.
Aspectos da escolarização de mulheres na EJA
Authors: Eiterer Carmem Lucia , Dias Jacqueline D'arc , Coura Marina
Published: March 2015

Fundamentando-se na pesquisa de natureza qualitativa, realizada por meio de entrevistas com 14 mulheres, mães de crianças pequenas matriculadas na Educação de Jovens e Adultos no nível fundamental, em instituições de ensino tradicionais e reconhecidas (uma pública e uma privada) de Belo Horizonte, neste artigo serão discutidos aspectos relativos à escolarização e seus efeitos no âmbito familiar a luz de contribuições teóricas do campo de estudos de gênero. Considerando a divisão por gênero das responsabilidades do trabalho doméstico na sociedade brasileira, debate-se a sobrecarga de atividades que se impõe à mulher mãe trabalhadora. Para tal, examina-se a sua condição de escolarização, bem como a relação com a escolarização dos filhos e a cultura escrita familiar. Evidencia-se como resultado o esforço de negociação que empreendem a fim de garantir sua possibilidade de se matricular na escola e as dificuldades que enfrentam para acompanhar a escolarização dos filhos na sua tríplice condição de mãe, trabalhadora e estudante.
Docência na Educação a distância
Authors: Quartiero Elisa Maria , Silva Karina Bernardes de Oliveira e
Published: March 2015

O artigo apresenta uma discussão acerca da docência na modalidade a distância e é parte de uma pesquisa de mestrado. Aqui analisamos o conceito de docência presente entre professores, equipe pedagógica e estudantes e sua configuração no curso de licenciatura em Letras Espanhol oferecido pela Universidade Federal de Santa Catarina (UFSC) no contexto do sistema Universidade Aberta do Brasil (UAB). Optou-se por uma pesquisa de abordagem qualitativa baseada no estudo de caso e foram utilizados questionários e entrevistas como instrumentos de coleta de dados. Os dados permitem afirmar que o curso de Letras Espanhol EaD/UFSC tem como base o trabalho colaborativo e todas as funções profissionais exercem, em alguma medida, influência no processo de ensino-aprendizagem. A docência no curso está constituída pelos professores da disciplina, tutor a distância/UFSC e tutor presencial/polo, dentro de uma organização ainda hierárquica das funções.
Ending Rape in War: How Far Have We Come?
Authors: Fiske Lucy , Shackel Rita
Published: March 2015

The rape of women has for centuries been an endemic feature of war, yet perpetrators largely go unpunished. Women were sanctioned as the spoils of war in biblical times and more recently it has been claimed that it is more dangerous to be a woman than a soldier in modern conflict. Nevertheless, until the establishment of the ad hoc International Criminal Tribunals for Rwanda and the former Yugoslavia – there was very little concern regarding the need to address the rape of women in conflict.This paper briefly maps historical attitudes towards rape in war, outlines some analyses and explanations of why rape in war occurs and finally turns more substantively to recent efforts by the international community to prosecute rape as a war crime and a crime against humanity. We argue, that while commendable in some ways, contemporary approaches to rape in war risk reinforcing aspects of women’s status which contribute to the targeting of women for rape and continue to displace women from the centre to the margins in debates and practices surrounding rape in both war and peace time.  We conclude by arguing that criminal prosecutions alone are insufficient and that, if we are to end the rape of women and girls in war (and peace) we need a radical restructuring of gender relations across every sphere of social and political life.
The Politics of War and the “Battle of Balaklava”
Authors: Maynard John
Published: March 2015

This paper seeks to aid and open further discussion on the impact upon Aboriginal communities and lives during and after World War One. We now know that over a thousand Aboriginal men enlisted and went overseas to fight for their so-called country during the Great War and that many made the ultimate sacrifice. But what was happening at home to their families and communities whilst they were away? Did they receive just recognition on their return home? These are some of the questions this paper will reveal and analyse.
Improvement of climate predictions and reduction of their uncertainties using learning algorithms
Authors: Strobach E. , Bel G.
Published: March 2015

Abstract. Simulated climate dynamics, initialized with observed conditions is expected to be synchronized, for several years, with the actual dynamics. However, the predictions of climate models are not sufficiently accurate. Moreover, there is a large variance between simulations initialized at different times and between different models. One way to improve climate predictions and to reduce the associated uncertainties is to use an ensemble of climate model predictions, weighted according to their past performance. Here, we show that skillful predictions, for a decadal time scale, of the 2 m-temperature can be achieved by applying a sequential learning algorithm to an ensemble of decadal climate model simulations. The predictions generated by the learning algorithm are shown to be better than those of each of the models in the ensemble, the better performing simple average and a reference climatology. In addition, the uncertainties associated with the predictions are shown to be reduced relative to those derived from equally weighted ensemble of bias corrected predictions. The results show that learning algorithms can help to better assess future climate dynamics.
Prognostic precipitation with three liquid water classes in the ECHAM5-HAM GCM
Authors: Sant V. , Posselt R. , Lohmann U.
Published: March 2015

Abstract. In order to improve the global representation of rain formation in marine stratiform clouds a new parameterization with three prognostic liquid water classes was implemented into the general circulation model ECHAM5 with the aerosol module HAM. The additionally introduced drizzle class improves the physical representation of the droplet spectrum and more importantly, improves the microphysical processes relevant for precipitation formation compared to the standard parameterization. In order to avoid a mismatch of the liquid and ice phase, the prognostic treatment of snow has been introduced too. This has a significant effect on the amount and altitude of ice clouds, which in turn does not only affect in- and outgoing radiation, but also the parameterized collection rates. With the introduction of a prognostic precipitation scheme a more realistic representation of both liquid and ice phase large-scale precipitation is achieved compared to a diagnostic treatment. An encouraging finding is that the sensitivity of the liquid water path to the anthropogenic aerosol forcing with the prognostic treatment is reduced by about 25%. Although the total net radiative forcing is increased from 1.4±0.4 to 1.6±0.4 W m−2 from the control to the prognostic model version, the difference is within the interannual variability. Altogether the results suggest that the treatment of precipitation in global circulation models has a significant influence on the phase and lifetime of clouds, but also hints towards the uncertainties related to a prognostic precipitation scheme.
OMI tropospheric NO2 air mass factors over South America: effects of biomass burning aerosols
Authors: Castellanos P. , Boersma K. F. , Torres O. , de Haan J. F.
Published: March 2015

Abstract. Biomass burning is an important and uncertain source of aerosols and NOx (NO + NO2) to the atmosphere. OMI observations of tropospheric NO2 are essential for characterizing this emissions source, but inaccuracies in the retrieval of NO2 tropospheric columns due to the radiative effects of aerosols, especially light-absorbing carbonaceous aerosols, are not well understood. It has been shown that the O2–O2 effective cloud fraction and pressure retrieval is sensitive to aerosol optical and physical properties, including aerosol optical depth (AOD). Aerosols implicitly influence the tropospheric air mass factor (AMF) calculations used in the NO2 retrieval through the effective cloud parameters used in the independent pixel approximation. In this work, we explicitly account for the effects of biomass burning aerosols in the tropospheric NO2 AMF calculation by including collocated aerosol extinction vertical profile observations from the CALIOP instrument, and aerosol optical depth (AOD) and single scattering albedo (SSA) retrieved by the OMI near-UV aerosol algorithm (OMAERUV) in the DISAMAR radiative transfer model for cloud-free scenes. Tropospheric AMFs calculated with DISAMAR were benchmarked against AMFs reported in the Dutch OMI NO2 (DOMINO) retrieval; the mean and standard deviation (SD) of the difference was 0.6 ± 8%. Averaged over three successive South American biomass burning seasons (2006–2008), the spatial correlation in the 500 nm AOD retrieved by OMI and the 532 nm AOD retrieved by CALIOP was 0.6, and 72% of the daily OMAERUV AOD observations were within 0.3 of the CALIOP observations. Overall, tropospheric AMFs calculated with observed aerosol parameters were on average 10% higher than AMFs calculated with effective cloud parameters. For effective cloud radiance fractions less than 30%, or effective cloud pressures greater than 800 hPa, the difference between tropospheric AMFs based on implicit and explicit aerosol parameters is on average 6 and 3%, respectively, which was the case for the majority of the pixels considered in our study. Pixels with effective cloud radiance fraction greater than 30% or effective cloud pressure less than 800 hPa corresponded with stronger shielding in the implicit aerosol correction approach because the assumption of a opaque effective cloud underestimates the altitude resolved AMF; tropospheric AMFs were on average 30–50% larger when aerosol parameters were included, and for individual pixels tropospheric AMFs can differ by more than a factor of two. The observation-based approach to correcting tropospheric AMF calculations for aerosol effects presented in this paper depicts a promising strategy for a globally consistent aerosol correction scheme for clear sky pixels.
Amelioration of marine environments at the Smithian–Spathian boundary, Early Triassic
Authors: Zhang L. , Zhao L. , Chen Z.-Q. , Algeo T. J. , Li Y. , Cao L.
Published: March 2015

Abstract. The protracted recovery of marine ecosystems following the Permian–Triassic mass extinction may have been caused, in part, by episodic environmental and climatic crises during the Early Triassic, among which the Smithian–Spathian boundary (SSB) event is conspicuous. Here, we investigate the SSB event in the Shitouzhai section, Guizhou Province, South China, using a combination of carbonate carbon (δ13Ccarb) and carbonate-associated sulfate sulfur isotopes (δ34SCAS), rare earth elements, and elemental paleoredox and paleoproductivity proxies. The SSB at Shitouzhai is characterized by a +4‰ shift in δ13Ccarb and a −10 to −15‰ shift in δ34SCAS, recording negative covariation that diverges from the positive δ13Ccarb−δ34SCAS covariation that characterizes most of the Early Triassic. This pattern is inferred to reflect an increase in organic carbon burial (e.g., due to elevated marine productivity) concurrently with the oxidation of isotopically light H2S, as the result of enhanced vertical advection of nutrient- and sulfide-rich deep waters to the ocean-surface layer. Enhanced upwelling was likely a response to climatic cooling and the reinvigoration of global-ocean overturning circulation at the SSB. Coeval decreases in chemical weathering intensity and detrital sediment flux at Shitouzhai are also consistent with climatic cooling. A decline in marine biodiversity was probably associated with the late Smithian thermal maximum (LSTM) rather than with the SSB per se. The SSB thus marked the termination of the extreme hothouse conditions of the Griesbachian–Smithian substages of the Early Triassic and is significant as a record of accompanying climatic, environmental, and biotic changes. The ultimate cause of the SSB event is uncertain but may have been related to a reduction in intrusive magmatic activity in the Siberian Traps large igneous province.
Global spatiotemporal distribution of soil respiration modeled using a global database
Authors: Hashimoto S. , Carvalhais N. , Ito A. , Migliavacca M. , Nishina K. , Reichstein M.
Published: March 2015

Abstract. The flux of carbon dioxide from the soil to the atmosphere (soil respiration) is one of the major fluxes in the global carbon cycle. At present, the accumulated field observation data cover a wide range of geographical locations and climate conditions. However, there are still large uncertainties in the magnitude and spatiotemporal variation of global soil respiration. Using a global soil respiration dataset, we developed a climate-driven model of soil respiration by modifying and updating Raich's model, and the global spatiotemporal distribution of soil respiration was examined using this model. The model was applied at a spatial resolution of 0.5° and a monthly time step. Soil respiration was divided into the heterotrophic and autotrophic components of respiration using an empirical model. The estimated mean annual global soil respiration was 91 Pg C yr-1 (between 1965 and 2012; Monte Carlo 95% confidence interval: 87–95 Pg C yr-1) and increased at the rate of 0.09 Pg C yr-2. The contribution of soil respiration from boreal regions to the total increase in global soil respiration was on the same order of magnitude as that of tropical and temperate regions, despite a lower absolute magnitude of soil respiration in boreal regions. The estimated annual global heterotrophic respiration and global autotrophic respiration were 51 and 40 Pg C yr-1, respectively. The global soil respiration responded to the increase in air temperature at the rate of 3.3 Pg C yr-1 °C−1, and Q10 = 1.4. Our study scaled up observed soil respiration values from field measurements to estimate global soil respiration and provide a data-oriented estimate of global soil respiration. Our results, including the modeled spatiotemporal distribution of global soil respiration, are based on a semi-empirical model parameterized with over one thousand data points. We expect that these spatiotemporal estimates will provide a benchmark for future studies and also help to constrain process-oriented models.
A statistical downscaling method for daily air temperature in data-sparse, glaciated mountain environments
Authors: Hofer M. , Marzeion B. , Mölg T.
Published: March 2015

Abstract. This study presents a statistical downscaling (SD) method for high-altitude, glaciated mountain ranges. The SD method uses an a priori selection strategy of the predictor (i.e., predictor selection without data analysis). In the SD model validation, emphasis is put on appropriately considering the pitfalls of short observational data records that are typical of high mountains. An application example is shown, with daily mean air temperature from several sites (all in the Cordillera Blanca, Peru) as target variables, and reanalysis data as predictors. Results reveal strong seasonal variations of the predictors' performance, with the maximum skill evident for the wet (and transitional) season months January to May (and September), and the lowest skill for the dry season months June and July. The minimum number of observations (here, daily means) required per calendar month to obtain statistically significant skill ranges from 40 to 140. With increasing data availability, the SD model skill tends to increase. Applied to a choice of different atmospheric reanalysis predictor variables, the presented skill assessment identifies only air temperature and geopotential height as significant predictors for local-scale air temperature. Accounting for natural periodicity in the data is vital in the SD procedure to avoid spuriously high performances of certain predictors, as demonstrated here for near-surface air temperature. The presented SD procedure can be applied to high-resolution, Gaussian target variables in various climatic and geo-environmental settings, without the requirement of subjective optimization.
Proposal of a consistent framework to integrate geothermal potential classification with energy extraction
Authors: Falcone G.
Published: March 2015

Abstract. The classification of geothermal resources is dependent on the estimate of their corresponding geothermal potential, so adopting a common assessment methodology would greatly benefit operators, investors, government regulators and consumers.

 Several geothermal classification schemes have been proposed, but, to date, no universally recognised standard exists. This is due to the difficulty in standardising fundamentally different geothermal source and product types. The situation is not helped by the accepted use of inconsistent jargon among the geothermal community. In fact, the term "geothermal potential" is often interpreted differently by different geothermal practitioners.

 This paper highlights the importance of integrating the classification of geothermal potential with that of geothermal energy extraction from well-defined development projects. A structured progression, from estimates of in situ quantities for a given prospect to actual production, is needed. Employing a unique, unambiguous framework would ensure that the same resource cannot exist simultaneously under different levels of maturity of the estimate (as in double bookings of resources), which would let stakeholders better assess the level of risk involved and the steps needed for a geothermal potential to achieve commercial extraction.
EFFICIENT USE OF VIDEO FOR 3D MODELLING OF CULTURAL HERITAGE OBJECTS
Authors: Alsadik B. , Gerke M. , Vosselman G.
Published: March 2015

Abstract. Currently, there is a rapid development in the techniques of the automated image based modelling (IBM), especially in advanced structure-from-motion (SFM) and dense image matching methods, and camera technology. One possibility is to use video imaging to create 3D reality based models of cultural heritage architectures and monuments. Practically, video imaging is much easier to apply when compared to still image shooting in IBM techniques because the latter needs a thorough planning and proficiency. However, one is faced with mainly three problems when video image sequences are used for highly detailed modelling and dimensional survey of cultural heritage objects. These problems are: the low resolution of video images, the need to process a large number of short baseline video images and blur effects due to camera shake on a significant number of images. In this research, the feasibility of using video images for efficient 3D modelling is investigated. A method is developed to find the minimal significant number of video images in terms of object coverage and blur effect. This reduction in video images is convenient to decrease the processing time and to create a reliable textured 3D model compared with models produced by still imaging. Two experiments for modelling a building and a monument are tested using a video image resolution of 1920×1080 pixels. Internal and external validations of the produced models are applied to find out the final predicted accuracy and the model level of details. Related to the object complexity and video imaging resolution, the tests show an achievable average accuracy between 1 – 5 cm when using video imaging, which is suitable for visualization, virtual museums and low detailed documentation.
ISPRS BENCHMARK FOR MULTI-PLATFORM PHOTOGRAMMETRY
Authors: Nex F. , Gerke M. , Remondino F. , Przybilla H.-J. , Bäumker M. , Zurhorst A.
Published: March 2015

Abstract. Airborne high resolution oblique imagery systems and RPAS/UAVs are very promising technologies that will keep on influencing the development of geomatics in the future years closing the gap between terrestrial and classical aerial acquisitions. These two platforms are also a promising solution for National Mapping and Cartographic Agencies (NMCA) as they allow deriving complementary mapping information. Although the interest for the registration and integration of aerial and terrestrial data is constantly increasing, only limited work has been truly performed on this topic. Several investigations still need to be undertaken concerning algorithms ability for automatic co-registration, accurate point cloud generation and feature extraction from multiplatform image data. One of the biggest obstacles is the non-availability of reliable and free datasets to test and compare new algorithms and procedures. The Scientific Initiative “ISPRS benchmark for multi-platform photogrammetry”, run in collaboration with EuroSDR, aims at collecting and sharing state-of-the-art multi-sensor data (oblique airborne, UAV-based and terrestrial images) over an urban area. These datasets are used to assess different algorithms and methodologies for image orientation and dense matching. As ground truth, Terrestrial Laser Scanning (TLS), Aerial Laser Scanning (ALS) as well as topographic networks and GNSS points were acquired to compare 3D coordinates on check points (CPs) and evaluate cross sections and residuals on generated point cloud surfaces. In this paper, the acquired data, the pre-processing steps, the evaluation procedures as well as some preliminary results achieved with commercial software will be presented.
3D BUILDING RECONSTRUCTION FROM LIDAR POINT CLOUDS BY ADAPTIVE DUAL CONTOURING
Authors: Orthuber E. , Avbelj J.
Published: March 2015

Abstract. This paper presents a novel workflow for data-driven building reconstruction from Light Detection and Ranging (LiDAR) point clouds. The method comprises building extraction, a detailed roof segmentation using region growing with adaptive thresholds, segment boundary creation, and a structural 3D building reconstruction approach using adaptive 2.5D Dual Contouring. First, a 2D-grid is overlain on the segmented point cloud. Second, in each grid cell 3D vertices of the building model are estimated from the corresponding LiDAR points. Then, the number of 3D vertices is reduced in a quad-tree collapsing procedure, and the remaining vertices are connected according to their adjacency in the grid. Roof segments are represented by a Triangular Irregular Network (TIN) and are connected to each other by common vertices or - at height discrepancies - by vertical walls. Resulting 3D building models show a very high accuracy and level of detail, including roof superstructures such as dormers. The workflow is tested and evaluated for two data sets, using the evaluation method and test data of the “ISPRS Test Project on Urban Classification and 3D Building Reconstruction” (Rottensteiner et al., 2012). Results show that the proposed method is comparable with the state of the art approaches, and outperforms them regarding undersegmentation and completeness of the scene reconstruction.
GAP-CLOSING 3D BUILDING RECONSTRUCTION BY ALIGNING BOUNDARIES OF ROOF SEGMENTS AND DETECTING UNCOVERED DETAILS
Authors: Pohl M. , Bulatov D.
Published: March 2015

Abstract. We describe a work flow to border building faces which aims to obtain a detailed and closed building model. Initially, we use the estimated roof planes and the rasterized binary mask of the corresponding inlier set to generate bordering polygons. To close the gaps between the initial boundary polygons and between the polygons and the building ground outline, we introduce an algorithm to align boundaries which successfully works in 2.5D and 3D. To enhance the accuracy of the boundary alignment, we use additional reliable model entities such as cut lines and step lines between the initial estimated roof planes. All gaps that cannot be avoided by this procedure are afterwards covered by a method searching for uncovered details.
PERSISTENT SCATTERER AIDED FACADE LATTICE EXTRACTION IN SINGLE AIRBORNE OPTICAL OBLIQUE IMAGES
Authors: Schack L. , Soergel U. , Heipke C.
Published: March 2015

Abstract. We present a new method to extract patterns of regular facade structures from single optical oblique images. To overcome the missing three-dimensional information we incorporate structural information derived from Persistent Scatter (PS) point cloud data into our method. Single oblique images and PS point clouds have never been combined before and offer promising insights into the compatibility of remotely sensed data of different kinds. Even though the appearance of facades is significantly different, many characteristics of the prominent patterns can be seen in both types of data and can be transferred across the sensor domains. To justify the extraction based on regular facade patterns we show that regular facades appear rather often in typical airborne oblique imagery of urban scenes. The extraction of regular patterns is based on well established tools like cross correlation and is extended by incorporating a module for estimating a window lattice model using a genetic algorithm. Among others the results of our approach can be used to derive a deeper understanding of the emergence of Persistent Scatterers and their fusion with optical imagery. To demonstrate the applicability of the approach we present a concept for data fusion aiming at facade lattices extraction in PS and optical data.
ROAD AND ROADSIDE FEATURE EXTRACTION USING IMAGERY AND LIDAR DATA FOR TRANSPORTATION OPERATION
Authors: Ural S. , Shan J. , Romero M. A. , Tarko A.
Published: March 2015

Abstract. Transportation agencies require up-to-date, reliable, and feasibly acquired information on road geometry and features within proximity to the roads as input for evaluating and prioritizing new or improvement road projects. The information needed for a robust evaluation of road projects includes road centerline, width, and extent together with the average grade, cross-sections, and obstructions near the travelled way. Remote sensing is equipped with a large collection of data and well-established tools for acquiring the information and extracting aforementioned various road features at various levels and scopes. Even with many remote sensing data and methods available for road extraction, transportation operation requires more than the centerlines. Acquiring information that is spatially coherent at the operational level for the entire road system is challenging and needs multiple data sources to be integrated. In the presented study, we established a framework that used data from multiple sources, including one-foot resolution color infrared orthophotos, airborne LiDAR point clouds, and existing spatially non-accurate ancillary road networks. We were able to extract 90.25% of a total of 23.6 miles of road networks together with estimated road width, average grade along the road, and cross sections at specified intervals. Also, we have extracted buildings and vegetation within a predetermined proximity to the extracted road extent. 90.6% of 107 existing buildings were correctly identified with 31% false detection rate.