bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Estimation of Floor Response Spectra Using the Uncoupled Modal Response History Analysis
Authors: Lucchini Andrea , Franchin Paolo , Mollaioli Fabrizio
Published: July 2016

In performance-based earthquake engineering, probabilistic seismic demand models are usually developed by using methods which need a large number of nonlinear dynamic analyses to be run. In order to reduce the numerical effort, simplified methodologies of analysis have been proposed. Objective of the present study is to use the uncoupled modal response history analysis for the estimation of acceleration floor spectra, engineering demand parameters commonly used for measuring seismic demand in acceleration-sensitive non-structural elements. The procedure is evaluated for a 6-story reinforced concrete frame case study, designed to be representative of an existing structure lacking in specific capacity design rules.
An Overview of the Current Code Provisions on the Seismic Response of Acceleration-Sensitive Non-Structural Components in Buildings
Authors: Martinelli Enzo , Faella Ciro
Published: July 2016

The seismic response of non-structural components in civil and industrial buildings, often neglected or disregarded in the common design/assessment practice, revealed its dramatic relevance in recent seismic events that resulted in significant damage observed in the wide class of “objects” referred to as “non-structural components” (e.g., partitions, masonry infill, suspended ceilings, finishing, specific equipment and so on. The observed damage, sometimes leading to collapse of these components and even loss of human lives, highlighted the lack of knowledge that still affects both analysis procedures and design/assessment methods currently adopted for analysing their seismic response. This paper is mainly intended at providing readers with an overview of both the historical development and the current state of the formulations adopted by codes and standards for evaluating the maximum accelerations induced by seismic shakings on non-structural components. The difference among these formulations is firstly outlined and the predictions based on the most up-to-date codes are compared with the results of a wide parametric analysis based on a 2DOF system, intended at simulating the coupled response of both main structure and non-structural component. This parametric comparison shows that the current formulations are not fully capable of reproducing the effect of the interaction between main structure and non-structural components
Interaction between Building Collapse and Road Serviceability during Seismic Emergency Operations in Urban Centers
Authors: Zanini Mariano Angelo , Faleschini Flora , Morbin Riccardo , Gastaldi Massimiliano , Rossi Riccardo , Pellegrino Carlo , Modena Claudio
Published: July 2016

In this paper a procedure for the evaluation of the interaction between existing buildings’ seismic damage and residual roads’ serviceability is proposed. The problem of the interaction between jutting buildings and roads is relevant in the seismic assessment of the residual functionality of roadway networks belonging to urban centres, where, in general, the urbanization has shown lack of road networks’ residual connectivity in the past quake experiences. The study proposes a comprehensive approach for the probabilistic assessment of the residual functionality of the urban network links, moving from the execution of the buildings external surveys, the application of probabilistic concepts and the use of fuzzy logic with the final aim to outline the potential urban network damage scenarios. The methodology is applied to the municipality of Conegliano (North-Eastern Italy) evaluating the potential seismic damage scenarios to the historical urban centre and highlighting the potential criticalities in the post-earthquake rescue operations.
Collapse Behavior of RC Column-Beam Sub-Structure with External Prestressing Tendons
Authors: Fan Yun Lei
Published: July 2016

Previous studies indicated that the external prestressing tendons can effectively improve the deformability and bearing capacity of RC frames. However, how to utilize the external prestressing tendons to prevent the increase of deformation of the structure with catenary action in the process of collapse needs further study. Using an analytical method for the stress variations of external prestressing tendons based on structural deformation, the deflection and stress of beam-column sub-structureunder the failure of RC column during elastic and plastic stages are studied, the calculation of ultimate bearing capacity considering catenary action are also presented which provide a basis for collapse-resistant design of beam-column sub-structures.
Overview of the Experimental Works on Steel Reinforced Polymer Systems
Authors: de Felice Gianmarco , de Santis Stefano , Napoli Annalisa , Realfonzo Roberto
Published: July 2016

The paper presents a brief overview of the experimental works carried out over the last eleven years on SRP systems, to provide an updated knowledge on the behaviour of SRP strengthened structures and identify areas of future research. First, the studies devoted to the mechanical characterization under tensile loading, to the durability of steel textiles and to the shear bond performance on concrete/masonry substrates are shown. Then, some applications of SRP systems to medium/large-scale structural members made of either reinforced concrete or masonry are described.
Flexural Strengthening of RC Slabs with SRP/SRG: An Experimental-Numerical Comparison
Authors: Napoli Annalisa , Realfonzo Roberto , Petracca Massimo , Candeloro Francesca , Camata Guido , Casadei Paolo
Published: July 2016

Steel reinforced polymer (SRP) and steel reinforced grout (SRG) systems have emerged as promising and cost-effective technologies for the external strengthening of RC structures. An experimental campaign was recently performed to investigate the effectiveness of SRG/SRP systems in increasing the flexural strength of RC slabs. Test results are herein used to validate a Fiber based finite element code developed with the aim of simulating the flexural behavior of SRP/SRG strengthened RC beams/slabs. The model provides an accurate prediction of the cross-sectional response by explicitly modeling each constituent, their position inside the discretized cross-section, and their nonlinear behavior. The satisfactory comparison between numerical predictions and experimental results assessed the accuracy of the developed code.
Reliability Analysis of Seismic Isolation in Retrofitting of Simply Supported Bridges
Authors: Petti Luigi , Lodato Alessio , Mammone Angelo
Published: July 2016

The paper investigates the reliability of simply supported bridges, retrofitted or less with seismic isolation, by means of fragility curves, which represent the probability of reaching a certain damage level for an assigned seismic intensity. Taking advantage of the Multi Stripes methodology, several nonlinear dynamic analyses of a multi-span bridge representing the existing ones in Italy built in the 60 ' characterized by means of non linear finite element models in different design configurations of seismic retrofit have been carried out, in order to obtain the fragility functions.The obtained results allow to assess the isolation retrofit strategies effectiveness to mitigate the seismic risk of simply supported bridges, highlighting the influence of different design strategies on the probability of exceeding the limit states considered.
Behavior of the Leaning Tower of Pisa: Analysis of Experimental Data from Structural Dynamic Monitoring
Authors: Bartelletti Raffaello , Fiorentino Gabriele , Lanzo Giuseppe , Lavorato Davide , Marano Giuseppe Carlo , Monti Giorgio , Nuti Camillo , Quaranta Giuseppe , Squeglia Nunziante
Published: July 2016

Understanding the structural behavior of heritage buildings is usually a very complicated task because they typically present complex deterioration and damage patterns which cannot be fully evaluated by means of visual inspections. Moreover, the reliability of such constructions largely depends on different materials, structural components and details, the health of which is often unknown or affected by great uncertainties. In this regard, the experimental dynamic testing of heritage buildings and monuments subjected to ambient vibrations has become a valuable tool for their assessment because of the minimum interference with the structure. Traffic-induced vibrations are not always a feasible dynamic load for monumental buildings due to their very low intensity or owing to existing restrictions to road and rail traffic. On the other hand, the analysis of the experimental response under earthquakes can lead to more relevant information about the dynamic behavior of historic constructions, provided that the structure is equipped with a permanent sensor network. Within this framework, the present work illustrates preliminary results carried out from time and frequency domain analyses performed on the experimental dynamic response of the leaning tower of Pisa using seismic records. The main dynamic features of the monument have been identified, and then examined taking into account the seismic input and the soil-foundation-structure interaction.
Behavior of the Leaning Tower of Pisa: Insights on Seismic Input and Soil-Structure Interaction
Authors: Bartelletti Raffaello , Fiorentino Gabriele , Lanzo Giuseppe , Lavorato Davide , Marano Giuseppe Carlo , Monti Giorgio , Nuti Camillo , Quaranta Giuseppe , Sabetta Fabio , Squeglia Nunziante
Published: July 2016

The most recent studies about the seismic behavior of the leaning Tower of Pisa that consider the soil-foundation-structure interaction date back to twenty years ago. From 1999 to 2001, the foundation of the monument was consolidated by means of under-excavation and the "Catino" at the basement was rigidly connected to the foundation. Meanwhile, significant progresses have been made in the field of earthquake engineering. Therefore, the need exists to assess the dynamic behavior of the Tower in light of the novelties occurred in the past decades. In the present study, the mechanical characteristics of the foundation have been calibrated comparing the outcomes of the experimental dynamic monitoring with the results of the finite element analysis performed on a simple but effective model. The scenario earthquakes for return periods equal to 130 years and 500 years are also presented.
A Long Span Hybrid Truss for a Sport Building
Authors: Mancini Martina , Caruso Simona , Li Zhi , Marnetto Roberto , Monti Giorgio
Published: July 2016

This paper presents an experimental work about the design of a truss roof for a long-spanbuilding. This study makes use of an innovative hybrid truss that has been developed in a parallelstudy. The project presented herein shows the direct application of the technology on an existingbuilding, emphasizing its feasibility, potentiality and functionality. The paper highlights thecharacteristic of adaptability to both newly designed buildings and existing ones. Starting from thetruss prototype, different shape configurations that the technology allows are hypothesized. Thefinal roof shape is selected based on study aiming at optimizing the elements sections.
Test on the Mechanical Performance of Glue-Laminated Timber Reinforced with GFRP for Structural Materials
Authors: Chen Zi Xiang , He Rui Lin , Zhao Qing Qing , Zhou Xian Yan , Zhang Zhong Feng
Published: July 2016

The basic mechanical performance of glue laminated timber (GLT) reinforced with glass fiber reinforced plastic (GFRP) for structural materials was studied. The differences of mechanical performance of the GLT reinforced with GFRP and the common GLT were compared by the test, and the quantitative influence of reinforcement ratio and arrangement pattern of GFRP on the mechanical performance was investigated. The test results showed that the static bending strength of GLT increased with the increasing of GFRP reinforcement ratio, and the reasonable arrangement pattern of GFRP could improve the internal bonding strength of GLT. The influence of reinforcement ratio and arrangement pattern of GFRP on the elastic modulus was relatively small. Finally, a mathematical model of static bending strength for GLT reinforced with GFRP was proposed, which can consider the influence of reinforcement ratio and GFRP arrangement pattern
Disproportionate Collapse Simulations
Authors: Fascetti Alessandro , Kunnath Sashi K. , Nisticò Nicola
Published: July 2016

In recent years the ability to simulate and predict disproportionate collapse has seen growing interest among the scientific community. This is a challenging matter, since many authors have been dealing with the modeling of progressive collapse, and it is now well-established that such problem requires the use of many different non-standard modeling techniques together with extensive calibration. Despite the many papers in the literature, there is still a lack of methodologies tailored for the quantification of the structural robustness and its acceptable level, which clearly depends on the importance and function of the structure. Further, consideration of Performance Criteria as well as Decision Making Strategies, have to be supported by robust (but also efficient) modeling methods that have to include three-dimensional and geometrical non-linear effects. Some of the previously outlined principles about robustness will be discussed following which the authors present a methodology for taking into account that progressive collapse phenomena are governed not only by the dynamic response of the bays adjacent to the triggering event, but also by the residual plastic resources the structure conserves after the initial damage.
Microplane Model for Concrete: Part I - State of the Art
Authors: Gambarelli Serena , Nisticò Nicola , Ožbolt Joško
Published: July 2016

The fundamental concepts of the microplane theory for non-linear modeling of concrete are presented in this paper. The basic idea behind the model is that the relationships between stress and strain are defined on planes of various orientations that represent microstructural damage planes, such as contact layers between aggregate pieces. Starting from the pioneering idea formalized as the slip theory of the plasticity, several models have been proposed in literature with the aim of formulating a general procedure for damage and fracture in concrete, under different loading combinations. The literature models are critically discussed with the aim to introduce an application presented in a companion paper [1]: the application regards CFRP-confined concrete elements modeled at macro and meso-scale.
Relevance of Pathological Complete Response after Neoadjuvant Therapy for Breast Cancer
Authors: Pennisi Angela , Kieber-Emmons Thomas , Makhoul Issam , Hutchins Laura
Published: July 2016

Breast cancer is a heterogeneous disease, and the different biological subtypes have different prognostic impacts. Neoadjuvant trials have recently become popular as they offer several advantages compared to traditional adjuvant trials. Studies have shown that patients who achieve pathological complete response (pCR) after neoadjuvant treatment have a better long-term outcome. Consequently, increasing the rate of pCR became the end point of neoadjuvant trials with the expectation of translation into improved survival. However, the definition of pCR has lacked uniformity, and the prognostic impact of achievement of pCR on survival in different breast cancer subtypes is uncertain. In this review, we present the controversies associated with the use of pCR as an end point in neoadjuvant trials.
Optimal decay estimates for the general solution to a class of semi-linear dissipative hyperbolic equations
Authors: Ghisi Marina , Gobbino Massimo , Haraux Alain
Published: July 2016

We consider a class of semi-linear dissipative hyperbolic equations in which the operator associated to the linear part has a nontrivial kernel. Under appropriate assumptions on the nonlinear term, we prove that all solutions decay to 0, as

t \to \infty

, at least as fast as a suitable negative power of

t

. Moreover, we prove that this decay rate is optimal in the sense that there exists a nonempty open set of initial data for which the corresponding solutions decay exactly as that negative power of

t

.

Our results are stated and proved in an abstract Hilbert space setting, and then applied to partial differential equations.
A minimization approach to hyperbolic Cauchy problems
Authors: Serra Enrico , Tilli Paolo
Published: July 2016

Developing an original idea of De Giorgi, we introduce a new and purely variational approach to the Cauchy Problem for a wide class of defocusing hyperbolic equations. The main novel feature is that the solutions are obtained as limits of functions that minimize suitable functionals in space-time (where the initial data of the Cauchy Problem serve as prescribed
boundary
conditions). This opens up the way to new connections between the hyperbolic world and that of the calculus of variations. Also dissipative equations can be treated. Finally, we discuss several examples of equations that fit in this framework, including nonlocal equations, in particular equations with the fractional Laplacian.
Balanced Viscosity (BV) solutions to infinite-dimensional rate-independent systems
Authors: Mielke Alexander , Rossi Riccarda , Savaré Giuseppe
Published: July 2016

Balanced Viscosity solutions to rate-independent systems arise as limits of regularized rate-independent flows by adding a superlinear vanishing-viscosity dissipation.

We address the main issue of proving the existence of such limits for infinite-dimensional systems and of characterizing them by a couple of variational properties that combine a local stability condition and a balanced energy-dissipation identity.

A careful description of the jump behavior of the solutions, of their differentiability properties, and of their equivalent representation by time rescaling is also presented.

Our techniques rely on a suitable chain-rule inequality for functions of bounded variation in Banach spaces, on refined lower-semicontinuity compactness arguments, and on new BV-estimates that are of independent interest.
Pattern analysis and distribution of the superior mesenteric artery branches in corpses in a death survey service
Authors: Pereira A. , Aires Neto S. , Silva Neto E. , Franca H. , Negromonte G. , Lucena R. , Maia A. , França C.
Published: July 2016

Introduction: The distribution pattern of the superior mesenteric artery (SMA) varies in the studies described by the literature. Objectives: To establish the variation pattern for the Brazilian population as well as to compare this distribution according to sex and ethnic groups. Materials and Methods: A total of 41 corpses were dissected in the Death Survey Service of Paraiba (SVO/PB), and the variation patterns were analyzed by comparing sex and ethnic groups by means of the statistical program SPSS 21.0. Results and Conclusion: From the 41 dissected corpses, 43,9%, n=18 were classified as normal, standard type 1, 7,3%, n=3, standard type 2, 24,3%, n=10, standard type 3, 14,6%, n=6, standard type 4, 9,7%, n=4, standard type 5, 9,7%, n=4. Statistically significant variations of the SMA patterns in relation to sex and ethnic groups were not found. The described patterns should be verified in order to inform and lead the health professionals in relation to the patient's care, especially in the surgical scope.
Staining of elastic and muscle fibers to morphometric studies in Chelonia mydas
Authors: Braz J. , Gomes V. , Queiroz M. , Silva N. , Moura C.
Published: July 2016

Introduction: The present study aimed to establish the staining protocol for quantification of elastic fibers and muscle fibers in arterial vessels through the Verhoeff method adapted with eosin in Chelonia mydas. Materials and Methods: Aorta and pulmonary arteries of 11 individuals of the species Chelonia mydas were used. The fragments were fixed in formaldehyde solution buffered 10% for 24 hours, subjected to routine histological processing and staining technique to be adapted Verhoeff, take the photografies and analyzed by Image Pro Plus Software. Results: The combination of ferric hematoxylin Verhoeff use blushed black elastic arteries blades, already eosin stained muscle ibers and collagen, allowing the tissue quantiication through distinction staining by software. Conclusion: The protocol is a low-cost alternative that facilitate the acquisition of morphometric data for research with turtles.
Anatomical variation of the ulnar artery: clinical and developmental significance
Authors: Ghosh B. , Yadav S. , Budhiraja V. , Dass P. , Rastogi R. , Chowdhury S.
Published: July 2016

Introduction: Variation of the ulnar artery in the upper limb is uncommon. The existence of such a variant is of particular clinical significance, as these arteries are more susceptible to trauma, and can be easily confused with superficial veins during medical and surgical procedures, potentially leading to iatrogenic distal limb ischemia. Case report: During routine dissection we observed a unilateral case of superficial ulnar artery in a 60-year-old male cadaver. It originated from the left brachial artery in the middle of the arm, near to insertion of coracobrachialis muscle. From its origin, it passed downwards in the medial part of arm behind the median nerve and forearm in a supericial plane compared to normal ulnar artery. In the hand, the supericial ulnar artery anastomosed with the palmar branch of the radial artery, creating the supericial palmar arch. Brachial artery divided into the radial and common interosseous arteries in the cubital fossa. The normal ulnar artery was absent. The existence of superficial ulnar artery is undeniably of interest to the clinicians as well as to the anatomists.
Increasing summer net CO2 uptake in high northern ecosystems inferred
from atmospheric inversions and comparisons to remote-sensing NDVI
Authors: Welp Lisa R. , Patra Prabir K. , Rödenbeck Christian , Nemani Rama , Bi Jian , Piper Stephen C. , Keeling Ralph F.
Published: July 2016

Abstract. Warmer temperatures and elevated atmospheric CO2 concentrations over the last several decades have been credited with increasing vegetation activity and photosynthetic uptake of CO2 from the atmosphere in the high northern latitude ecosystems: the boreal forest and arctic tundra. At the same time, soils in the region have been warming, permafrost is melting, fire frequency and severity are increasing, and some regions of the boreal forest are showing signs of stress due to drought or insect disturbance. The recent trends in net carbon balance of these ecosystems, across heterogeneous disturbance patterns, and the future implications of these changes are unclear. Here, we examine CO2 fluxes from northern boreal and tundra regions from 1985 to 2012, estimated from two atmospheric inversions (RIGC and Jena). Both used measured atmospheric CO2 concentrations and wind fields from interannually variable climate reanalysis. In the arctic zone, the latitude region above 60° N excluding Europe (10° W–63° E), neither inversion finds a significant long-term trend in annual CO2 balance. The boreal zone, the latitude region from approximately 50–60° N, again excluding Europe, showed a trend of 8–11 Tg C yr−2 over the common period of validity from 1986 to 2006, resulting in an annual CO2 sink in 2006 that was 170–230 Tg C yr−1 larger than in 1986. This trend appears to continue through 2012 in the Jena inversion as well. In both latitudinal zones, the seasonal amplitude of monthly CO2 fluxes increased due to increased uptake in summer, and in the arctic zone also due to increased fall CO2 release. These findings suggest that the boreal zone has been maintaining and likely increasing CO2 sink strength over this period, despite browning trends in some regions and changes in fire frequency and land use. Meanwhile, the arctic zone shows that increased summer CO2 uptake, consistent with strong greening trends, is offset by increased fall CO2 release, resulting in a net neutral trend in annual fluxes. The inversion fluxes from the arctic and boreal zones covering the permafrost regions showed no indication of a large-scale positive climate–carbon feedback caused by warming temperatures on high northern latitude terrestrial CO2 fluxes from 1985 to 2012.
Upper-tropospheric CO and O3 budget during the Asian summer monsoon
Authors: Barret Brice , Sauvage Bastien , Bennouna Yasmine , Le Flochmoen Eric
Published: July 2016

Abstract. During the Asian summer monsoon, the circulation in the upper troposphere/lower stratosphere (UTLS) is dominated by the Asian monsoon anticyclone (AMA). Pollutants convectively uplifted to the upper troposphere are trapped within this anticyclonic circulation that extends from the Pacific Ocean to the Eastern Mediterranean basin. Among the uplifted pollutants are ozone (O3) and its precursors, such as carbon monoxide (CO) and nitrogen oxides (NOx). Many studies based on global modeling and satellite data have documented the source regions and transport pathways of primary pollutants (CO, HCN) into the AMA. Here, we aim to quantify the O3 budget by taking into consideration anthropogenic and natural sources. We first use CO and O3 data from the MetOp-A/IASI sensor to document their tropospheric distributions over Asia, taking advantage of the useful information they provide on the vertical dimension. These satellite data are used together with MOZAIC tropospheric profiles recorded in India to validate the distributions simulated by the global GEOS-Chem chemistry transport model. Over the Asian region, UTLS monthly CO and O3 distributions from IASI and GEOS-Chem display the same large-scale features. UTLS CO columns from GEOS-Chem are in agreement with IASI, with a low bias of 11 ± 9 % and a correlation coefficient of 0.70. For O3, the model underestimates IASI UTLS columns over Asia by 14 ± 26 % but the correlation between both is high (0.94). GEOS-Chem is further used to quantify the CO and O3 budget through sensitivity simulations. For CO, these simulations confirm that South Asian anthropogenic emissions have a more important impact on enhanced concentrations within the AMA (∼  25 ppbv) than East Asian emissions (∼  10 ppbv). The correlation between enhanced emissions over the Indo-Gangetic Plain and monsoon deep convection is responsible for this larger impact. Consistently, South Asian anthropogenic NOx emissions also play a larger role in producing O3 within the AMA (∼  8 ppbv) than East Asian emissions (∼  5 ppbv), but Asian lightning-produced NOx is responsible for the largest O3 production (10–14 ppbv). Stratosphere-to-troposphere exchanges are also important in transporting O3 in the upper part of the AMA.
Ion mobility spectrometry–mass spectrometry (IMS–MS) for on- and offline
analysis of atmospheric gas and aerosol species
Authors: Krechmer Jordan E. , Groessl Michael , Zhang Xuan , Junninen Heikki , Massoli Paola , Lambe Andrew T. , Kimmel Joel R. , Cubison Michael J. , Graf Stephan , Lin Ying-Hsuan , Budisulistiorini Sri H. , Zhang Haofei , Surratt Jason D. , Knochenmuss Richard , Jayne John T. , Worsnop Douglas R. , Jimenez Jose-Luis , Canagaratna Manjula R.
Published: July 2016

Abstract. Measurement techniques that provide molecular-level information are needed to elucidate the multiphase processes that produce secondary organic aerosol (SOA) species in the atmosphere. Here we demonstrate the application of ion mobility spectrometry-mass spectrometry (IMS–MS) to the simultaneous characterization of the elemental composition and molecular structures of organic species in the gas and particulate phases. Molecular ions of gas-phase organic species are measured online with IMS–MS after ionization with a custom-built nitrate chemical ionization (CI) source. This CI–IMS–MS technique is used to obtain time-resolved measurements (5 min) of highly oxidized organic molecules during the 2013 Southern Oxidant and Aerosol Study (SOAS) ambient field campaign in the forested SE US. The ambient IMS–MS signals are consistent with laboratory IMS–MS spectra obtained from single-component carboxylic acids and multicomponent mixtures of isoprene and monoterpene oxidation products. Mass-mobility correlations in the 2-D IMS–MS space provide a means of identifying ions with similar molecular structures within complex mass spectra and are used to separate and identify monoterpene oxidation products in the ambient data that are produced from different chemical pathways. Water-soluble organic carbon (WSOC) constituents of fine aerosol particles that are not resolvable with standard analytical separation methods, such as liquid chromatography (LC), are shown to be separable with IMS–MS coupled to an electrospray ionization (ESI) source. The capability to use ion mobility to differentiate between isomers is demonstrated for organosulfates derived from the reactive uptake of isomers of isoprene epoxydiols (IEPOX) onto wet acidic sulfate aerosol. Controlled fragmentation of precursor ions by collisionally induced dissociation (CID) in the transfer region between the IMS and the MS is used to validate MS peak assignments, elucidate structures of oligomers, and confirm the presence of the organosulfate functional group.
Sedimentary response to sea ice and atmospheric variability over the
instrumental period off Adélie Land, East Antarctica
Authors: Campagne Philippine , Crosta Xavier , Schmidt Sabine , Noëlle Houssais Marie , Ther Olivier , Massé Guillaume
Published: July 2016

Abstract. Diatoms account for a large proportion of primary productivity in Antarctic coastal and continental shelf zones. Diatoms, which have been used for a long time to infer past sea surface conditions in the Southern Ocean, have recently been associated with diatom-specific biomarkers (highly branched isoprenoids, HBI). Our study is one of the few sedimentary research projects on diatom ecology and associated biomarkers in the Antarctic seasonal sea ice zone. To date, the Adélie Land region has received little attention, despite evidence for the presence of high accumulation of laminated sediment, allowing for finer climate reconstructions and sedimentary process studies. Here we provide a sequence of seasonally to annually laminated diatomaceous sediment from a 72.5 cm interface core retrieved on the continental shelf off Adélie Land, covering the 1970–2010 CE period. Investigations through statistical analyses of diatom communities, diatom-specific biomarkers and major element abundances document the relationships between these proxies at an unprecedented resolution. Additionally, comparison of sedimentary records to meteorological data monitored by automatic weather station and satellite derived sea ice concentrations help to refine the relationships between our proxies and environmental conditions over the last decades. Our results suggest a coupled interaction of the atmospheric and sea surface variability on sea ice seasonality, which acts as the proximal forcing of siliceous productivity at that scale.
Biochar carrying hydrocarbon decomposers promotes degradation during the early stage of bioremediation
Authors: Galitskaya P. , Akhmetzyanova L. , Selivanovskaya S.
Published: July 2016

Abstract. Oil pollution is one of the most serious current environmental problems. In this study, four strategies of bioremediation of oil polluted soil were tested in the laboratory over a period of 84 days: (A) aeration and moistening; (B) amendment with 1 % biochar (w/w) in combination with A; amendment with 1 % biochar with immobilized Pseudomonas aeruginosa (C) or Actinetobacter radioresistens (D) in combination with A. All strategies used resulted in a decrease of the hydrocarbon content, while biochar addition (B, C, D strategies) led to acceleration of decomposition in the beginning. Microbial biomass and respiration rate increased significantly at the start of bioremediation. For microbial biomass, moistening and aeration were the main factors of the changes observed, while for respiration, the main factors were biochar and the introduction of microbes. All four remediation strategies altered bacterial community structure and phytotoxicity. Illumina MiSeq method revealed 391 unique OTUs belonging to 40 bacterial phyla and a domination of Proteobacteria in all investigated soil samples. The lowest alpha-diversity was observed in the samples with introduced bacteria on the first day of remediation. Metric multidimensional scaling demonstrated that in the beginning and at the end, microbial community structures were more similar than those on the 28th day of remediation. Strategies A and B decreased phytotoxicity of remediated soil in 2.5–3.1 times as compared with untreated soil. C and D strategies led to additional decrease of phytotoxicity in 2.1–3.2 times.
Evaluating Lossy Data Compression on Climate Simulation Data
within a Large Ensemble
Authors: Baker Allison H. , Hammerling Dorit M. , Mickleson Sheri A. , Xu Haiying , Stolpe Martin B. , Naveau Phillipe , Sanderson Ben , Ebert-Uphoff Imme , Samarasinghe Savini , De Simone Francesco , Carbone Francesco , Gencarelli Christian N. , Dennis John M. , Kay Jennifer E. , Lindstrom Peter
Published: July 2016

Abstract. High-resolution earth system model simulations generate enormous data volumes, and retaining the data from these simulations often strains institutional storage resources. Further, these exceedingly large storage requirements negatively impact science objectives by forcing reductions in data output frequency, simulation length, or ensemble size, for example. To lessen data volumes from the Community Earth System Model (CESM), we advocate the use of lossy data compression techniques. While lossy data compression does not exactly preserve the original data (as lossless compression does), lossy techniques have an advantage in terms of smaller storage requirements. To preserve the integrity of the scientific simulation data, the effects of lossy data compression on the original data should, at a minimum, not be statistically distinguishable from the natural variability of the climate system, and previous preliminary work with data from CESM has shown this goal to be attainable. However, to ultimately convince climate scientists that it is acceptable to use lossy data compression, we provide climate scientists with access to publicly available climate data that has undergone lossy data compression. In particular, we report on the results of a lossy data compression experiment with output from the CESM Large Ensemble (CESM-LE) Community Project, in which we challenge climate scientists to examine features of the data relevant to their interests, and attempt to identify which of the ensemble members have been compressed and reconstructed. We find that while detecting distinguishing features is certainly possible, the compression effects noticeable in these features are often unimportant or disappear in post-processing analyses. In addition, we perform several analyses that directly compare the original data to the reconstructed data to investigate the preservation, or lack thereof, of specific features critical to climate science. Overall, we conclude that applying lossy data compression to climate simulation data is both advantageous in terms of data reduction and generally acceptable in terms of effects on scientific results.
A consistent prescription of stratospheric aerosol for both radiation and
chemistry in the Community Earth System Model (CESM1)
Authors: Neely III Ryan Reynolds , Conley Andrew J. , Vitt Francis , Lamarque Jean-François
Published: July 2016

Abstract. Here we describe an updated parameterization for prescribing stratospheric aerosol in the National Center for Atmospheric Research (NCAR) Community Earth System Model (CESM1). The need for a new parameterization is motivated by the poor response of the CESM1 (formerly referred to as the Community Climate System Model, version 4, CCSM4) simulations contributed to the Coupled Model Intercomparison Project 5 (CMIP5) to colossal volcanic perturbations to the stratospheric aerosol layer (such as the 1991 Pinatubo eruption or the 1883 Krakatau eruption) in comparison to observations. In particular, the scheme used in the CMIP5 simulations by CESM1 simulated a global mean surface temperature decrease that was inconsistent with the GISS Surface Temperature Analysis (GISTEMP), NOAA's National Climatic Data Center, and the Hadley Centre of the UK Met Office (HADCRUT4). The new parameterization takes advantage of recent improvements in historical stratospheric aerosol databases to allow for variations in both the mass loading and size of the prescribed aerosol. An ensemble of simulations utilizing the old and new schemes shows CESM1's improved response to the 1991 Pinatubo eruption. Most significantly, the new scheme more accurately simulates the temperature response of the stratosphere due to local aerosol heating. Results also indicate that the new scheme decreases the global mean temperature response to the 1991 Pinatubo eruption by half of the observed temperature change, and modelled climate variability precludes statements as to the significance of this change.
Experimental design for three interrelated marine ice sheet and ocean model intercomparison projects: MISMIP v. 3 (MISMIP +), ISOMIP v. 2 (ISOMIP +) and MISOMIP v. 1 (MISOMIP1)
Authors: Asay-Davis Xylar S. , Cornford Stephen L. , Durand Gaël , Galton-Fenzi Benjamin K. , Gladstone Rupert M. , Gudmundsson G. Hilmar , Hattermann Tore , Holland David M. , Holland Denise , Holland Paul R. , Martin Daniel F. , Mathiot Pierre , Pattyn Frank , Seroussi Hélène
Published: July 2016

Abstract. Coupled ice sheet–ocean models capable of simulating moving grounding lines are just becoming available. Such models have a broad range of potential applications in studying the dynamics of marine ice sheets and tidewater glaciers, from process studies to future projections of ice mass loss and sea level rise. The Marine Ice Sheet–Ocean Model Intercomparison Project (MISOMIP) is a community effort aimed at designing and coordinating a series of model intercomparison projects (MIPs) for model evaluation in idealized setups, model verification based on observations, and future projections for key regions of the West Antarctic Ice Sheet (WAIS). Here we describe computational experiments constituting three interrelated MIPs for marine ice sheet models and regional ocean circulation models incorporating ice shelf cavities. These consist of ice sheet experiments under the Marine Ice Sheet MIP third phase (MISMIP+), ocean experiments under the Ice Shelf-Ocean MIP second phase (ISOMIP+) and coupled ice sheet–ocean experiments under the MISOMIP first phase (MISOMIP1). All three MIPs use a shared domain with idealized bedrock topography and forcing, allowing the coupled simulations (MISOMIP1) to be compared directly to the individual component simulations (MISMIP+ and ISOMIP+). The experiments, which have qualitative similarities to Pine Island Glacier Ice Shelf and the adjacent region of the Amundsen Sea, are designed to explore the effects of changes in ocean conditions, specifically the temperature at depth, on basal melting and ice dynamics. In future work, differences between model results will form the basis for the evaluation of the participating models.
Monitoring surface water quality using social media in the context of citizen science
Authors: Zheng Hang , Yang Hong , Long Di , Jing Hua
Published: July 2016

Abstract. Surface water quality monitoring (SWQM) provides essential information for water environmental protection. However, SWQM is costly and is limited in terms of equipment and sites. The global popularity of social media and intelligent mobile devices with GPS and photograph functions provide immense opportunity for citizens to monitor surface water quality. This study aims to establish and demonstrate a method to monitor surface water quality using social media platforms. A WeChat-based application platform is built to collect water quality reports from volunteers. Results show that the monitoring reports are reliable if the volunteers are trained. The key application functions and the methods for data washing and volunteer recruitment are also discussed in this study. The proposed framework and method can provide a mechanism to collect water quality data from citizens and offer a primary foundation for big data analysis in future research.
The role of EMODnet Chemistry in the European challenge for Good Environmental Status
Authors: Vinci Matteo , Giorgetti Alessandra , Lipizer Marina
Published: July 2016

Abstract. the European Union set the ambitious objective to reach within 2020 the goal of Good Environmental Status. The Marine Strategy Framework Directive (2008) represents the legislative framework that drives Member States efforts to reach it. The Integrated Maritime Policy supported the need to provide a European knowledge base able to drive sustainable development by launching in 2009 a new European Marine Observation and Data Network (EMODnet). Through a stepwise approach, EMODnet Chemistry aims to provide high quality marine environmental data and related products at the scale of regions and sub-regions defined by the Marine Strategy Framework Directive. The Chemistry Lot takes advantage and further develops the SeaDataNet pan-European infrastructure and the distributed approach, linking together a network of more than 100 National Oceanographic Data Centres providing data from more than 500 data originators. The close interaction with EEA, RSCs, ICES and EMODnet-MSFD coordination group allows to assess the most proper set of information necessary for the MSFD process. EMODnet Chemistry provides aggregated and validated regional data collections for nutrients, dissolved gasses, chlorophyll and contaminants, properly visualised with OGC WMS and WPS viewing services. Concentration maps with 10-year moving window from 1960 to 2014, by season and for selected vertical layers are computed and made available.
Effects of stratified active layers on high-altitude permafrost warming:
a case study on the Qinghai–Tibet Plateau
Authors: Pan Xicai , Li Yanping , Yu Qihao , Shi Xiaogang , Yang Daqing , Roth Kurt
Published: July 2016

Abstract. Seasonally variable thermal conductivity in active layers is one important factor that controls the thermal state of permafrost. The common assumption is that this conductivity is considerably lower in the thawed than in the frozen state, λt/λf < 1. Using a 9-year dataset from the Qinghai–Tibet Plateau (QTP) in conjunction with the GEOtop model, we demonstrate that the ratio λt/λf may approach or even exceed 1. This can happen in thick (> 1.5 m) active layers with strong seasonal total water content changes in the regions with summer-monsoon-dominated precipitation pattern. The conductivity ratio can be further increased by typical soil architectures that may lead to a dry interlayer. The unique pattern of soil hydraulic and thermal dynamics in the active layer can be one important contributor for the rapid permafrost warming at the study site. These findings suggest that, given the increase in air temperature and precipitation, soil hydraulic properties, particularly soil architecture in those thick active layers must be properly taken into account in permafrost models.
Multimodal Imaging in a Case of Self-Inflicted Laser-Induced Maculopathy
Authors: Combillet France , Saunier Valentine , Rougier Marie Bénédicte , Delyfer Marie Noëlle , Korobelnik Jean-Francois
Published: July 2016

Purpose

To describe the clinical and imaging findings in a case of self-inflicted handheld laser exposure.

Methods

We evaluated multimodal imaging including fundus autofluorescence, spectral-domain optical coherence tomography (SD-OCT), fluorescein angiography, and indocyanine green angiography for a 32-year-old man with a history of repetitive self-inflicted handheld laser exposure.

Results

Funduscopic examination revealed bilateral and asymmetric yellow macular linear streaks with a vertical pattern in the superior macula. Curvilinear bands of dense hyperreflectivity extending from the ellipsoid zone of the photoreceptors and ending at the level of the outer plexiform layer were seen on SD-OCT immediately after injury. After intravenous high-dose corticosteroids during 3 days, the lesions decreased slightly.

Conclusions

The recognition of characteristic self-inflicted handheld laser-induced lesions is paramount as laser pointer misuse has been increasing over the years.
Posterior Capsule Opacification 9 Years after Phacoemulsification with a Hydrophobic and a Hydrophilic Intraocular Lens
Authors: Chang Anthony , Kugelberg Maria
Published: July 2016

Purpose

To compare the development of posterior capsule opacification (PCO) and survival rate without capsulotomy after implantation of a hydrophobic or hydrophilic acrylic intraocular lens (IOL) at the 9-year postoperative follow-up.

Methods

One of 3 experienced cataract surgeons performed standard phacoemulsification in one eye of 120 patients with cataract. The patients were randomized to implantation of either a hydrophobic acrylic IOL or a hydrophilic acrylic IOL. Both IOLs had sharp posterior edges. Retroillumination images of PCO were obtained with a fundus camera 9 years postoperatively and analyzed semiobjectively using POCOman computer software.

Results

Seventy-eight of the 120 patients completed the 9-year follow-up examination. Patients implanted with the hydrophilic IOL had significantly (p<0.001) more and denser PCO. The survival rate without Nd:YAG capsulotomy was significantly higher (p<0.001) in eyes with the hydrophobic IOL.

Conclusions

After 9 years, more and denser PCO developed in eyes with the hydrophilic IOL than the hydrophobic IOL. The survival rate without the need for capsulotomy was higher in eyes with the hydrophobic IOL.
Impact of Valsalva Maneuver on Central Choroid, Central Macula, and Disk Fiber Layer Thickness Among High Myopic and Hyperopic Patients
Authors: Kurultay-Ersan Isil , Emre Sinan
Published: July 2016

Purpose

To evaluate the alterations in mean central choroidal, central macular, and disk retinal nerve fiber layer (RNFL) thickness measured by optical coherence tomography (OCT) during Valsalva maneuver among patients with high refractive errors.

Methods

A total of 60 high myopic (≥-6.0 D) and 50 high hyperopic (≥ + 3.0 D) eyes of 58 patients aged 19-65 years with visual acuity of 20/20 and without any ophthalmologic or systemic diseases were evaluated by OCT before and after the Valsalva maneuver. The choroidal thickness was measured with enhanced depth imaging OCT method. Central macular thickness, disk RNFL thickness, and axial length were also assessed.

Results

Mean choroidal thickness increased significantly from 275.0 ± 27.2 μm at rest to 279.8 ± 31.6 μm after Valsalva maneuver in high myopic patients, and from 308.2 ± 27.3 μm to 313.6 ± 28.5 μm in high hyperopic patients (p<0.01 for each). A significant negative correlation of the choroidal thickness was noted with axial length (r = -0.509, p<0.01) and age (r = -0.224, p = 0.01) in the overall study population. Mean central macular thickness was 242.9 ± 44.4 μm and 254.0 ± 22.8 μm, while mean disk RNFL thickness was 81.6 ± 12.4 μm and 98.4 ± 13.3 μm in high myopic and hyperopic patients, respectively. Valsalva maneuver was not associated with significant change in central macular or disk RNFL thickness.

Conclusions

Significant association of Valsalva maneuver with an increase in choroidal thickness was noted among patients with high degree of myopia and hyperopia. Our findings emphasize the likelihood of increase in choroidal volume due to venous distension to be responsible for the increase observed in choroidal thickness after Valsalva maneuver.