bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
A cloud-ozone data product from Aura OMI and MLS satellite measurements
Authors: Ziemke Jerald R. , Strode Sarah A. , Douglass Anne R. , Joiner Joanna , Vasilkov Alexander , Oman Luke D. , Liu Junhua , Strahan Susan E. , Bhartia Pawan K. , Haffner David P.
Published: November 2017

Abstract. Ozone within deep convective clouds is controlled by several factors involving photochemical reactions and transport. Gas-phase photochemical reactions and heterogeneous surface chemical reactions involving ice, water particles, and aerosols inside the clouds all contribute to the distribution and net production and loss of ozone. Ozone in clouds is also dependent on convective transport that carries low-troposphere/boundary-layer ozone and ozone precursors upward into the clouds. Characterizing ozone in thick clouds is an important step for quantifying relationships of ozone with tropospheric H2O, OH production, and cloud microphysics/transport properties. Although measuring ozone in deep convective clouds from either aircraft or balloon ozonesondes is largely impossible due to extreme meteorological conditions associated with these clouds, it is possible to estimate ozone in thick clouds using backscattered solar UV radiation measured by satellite instruments. Our study combines Aura Ozone Monitoring Instrument (OMI) and Microwave Limb Sounder (MLS) satellite measurements to generate a new research product of monthly-mean ozone concentrations in deep convective clouds between 30° S and 30° N for October 2004–April 2016. These measurements represent mean ozone concentration primarily in the upper levels of thick clouds and reveal key features of cloud ozone including: persistent low ozone concentrations in the tropical Pacific of  ∼ 10 ppbv or less; concentrations of up to 60 pphv or greater over landmass regions of South America, southern Africa, Australia, and India/east Asia; connections with tropical ENSO events; and intraseasonal/Madden–Julian oscillation variability. Analysis of OMI aerosol measurements suggests a cause and effect relation between boundary-layer pollution and elevated ozone inside thick clouds over landmass regions including southern Africa and India/east Asia.
A Prototype Method for Diagnosing High Ice Water Content Probability Using Satellite Imager Data
Authors: Yost Christopher R. , Bedka Kristopher M. , Minnis Patrick , Nguyen Louis , Strapp J. Walter , Palikonda Rabindra , Khlopenkov Konstantin , Spangenberg Douglas , Smith Jr. William L. , Protat Alain , Delanoe Julien
Published: November 2017

Abstract. Recent studies have found that flight through deep convective storms and ingestion of high mass concentrations of ice crystals, also known as high ice water content (HIWC), into aircraft engines can adversely impact aircraft engine performance. These aircraft engine icing events caused by HIWC have been documented during flight in weak reflectivity regions near convective updraft regions that do not appear threatening in onboard weather radar data. Three airborne field campaigns were conducted in 2014 and 2015 to better understand how HIWC is distributed in deep convection, both as a function of altitude and proximity to convective updraft regions, and to facilitate development of new methods for detecting HIWC conditions, in addition to many other research and regulatory goals. This paper describes a prototype method for detecting HIWC conditions using geostationary (GEO) satellite imager data coupled with in-situ total water content (TWC) observations collected during the flight campaigns. Three satellite-derived parameters were determined to be most useful for determining HIWC probability: 1) the horizontal proximity of the aircraft to the nearest overshooting convective updraft or textured anvil cloud, 2) tropopause-relative infrared brightness temperature, and 3) daytime-only cloud optical depth. Statistical fits between collocated TWC and GEO satellite parameters were used to determine the membership functions for the fuzzy logic derivation of HIWC probability. The products were demonstrated using data from several campaign flights and validated using a subset of the satellite-aircraft collocation database. The daytime HIWC probability was found to agree quite well with TWC time trends and identified extreme TWC events with high probability. Discrimination of HIWC was more challenging at night with IR-only information. The products show the greatest capability for discriminating TWC ≥ 0.5 g m−3. Product validation remains challenging due to vertical TWC uncertainties and the typically coarse spatio-temporal resolution of the GEO data.
Atmospheric CO2, CH4, and CO with CRDS technique at the Izaña Global GAW station: instrumental tests, developments and first measurement results
Authors: Gomez-Pelaez Angel J. , Ramos Ramon , Cuevas Emilio , Gomez-Trueba Vanessa , Reyes Enrique
Published: November 2017

Abstract. At the end of 2015, a CO2/CH4/CO Cavity Ring-Down Spectrometer (CRDS) was installed at the Izaña Global Atmosphere Watch station (Tenerife, Spain) to improve the Izaña Greenhouse gases GAW measurement programme, and to guarantee the renewal of the instrumentation and the long-term maintenance of this programme. We present the results of the CRDS acceptance tests, the processing of raw data applied through novel numerical codes, and the response functions used. Also, the calibration results, the implemented water vapour correction, the target gas injection statistics, the ambient measurements performed from December 2015 to July 2017, and their comparison with other continuous in situ measurements are described. The agreement with other in situ continuous measurements is good most of the time for CO2 and CH4, but for CO is just outside the GAW 2-ppb objective. It seems the disagreement is not produced by significant drifts in the CRDS CO WMO tertiary standards. The main novelties are: 1) determination of a slight CO2 correction that takes into account changes in the inlet pressure/flow rate; 2) detailed justification of the use of virtual tanks to monitor the response function changes in time; 3) drift rate determination for the pressure and temperature sensors located inside the CRDS cavity; 4) novelties in the determination of the H2O correction for CO; and 5) determination and discussion of the origin of the CRDS-flow inlet pressure and H2O dependences.
Characterisation of aerosol provenance from the fractional solubility of Fe (Al, Ti, Mn, Co, Ni, Cu, Zn, Cd and Pb) in North Atlantic aerosols (GEOTRACES cruises GA01 and GA03) using a two stage leach
Authors: Shelley Rachel U. , Landing William M. , Ussher Simon J. , Planquette Helene , Sarthou Geraldine
Published: November 2017

Abstract. The fractional solubility of aerosol-derived trace elements deposited to the ocean surface is a key parameter of many marine biogeochemical models. Yet, it is currently poorly constrained, in part due to the complex interplay between the various processes that govern the solubilisation of aerosol trace elements. In this study, we used a sequential two-stage leach to investigate the fractional solubility of a suite of aerosol trace elements (Al, Ti, Fe, Mn, Co, Ni, Cu, Zn, Cd and Pb) from samples collected during three GEOTRACES cruises to the North Atlantic Ocean. Regardless of the leaching protocol used (mild versus strong leach), the same trends were observed. These were that trace elements from aerosols from 1) North Africa were always the least soluble, and the most homogeneous (e.g. Fe was 0.36 ± 0.12 % and 6.0 ± 1.0 % soluble in North African and 6.5 ± 5.5 % and 17 ± 11 % soluble in non-African aerosols following leaches with ultra-high purity water, and 25 % acetic acid, respectively), 2) aerosols from the most remote locations were generally the most soluble, but had the most spread in the values of fractional solubility and 3) primarily pollution-derived TEs (Ni, Cu, Zn, Cd and Pb) were significantly enriched above crustal values in aerosols, even in samples of North African origin. We present aerosol trace element solubility data from two sequential leaches that provides a solubility window, covering a conservative, lower limit to an upper limit, the maximum potentially soluble fraction, and demonstrate why this lower limit of solubility may underestimate aerosol TE solubility in some regions. The leaching technique that yields the upper limit can also be used to estimate trace element solubility from suspended particulate matter (SPM). Therefore, facilitating direct comparison with SPM leached using the same technique, thereby introducing some degree of standardisation between aerosol and SPM trace element solubility studies which may help inform of in-water processes that modify the solubility, and thus bioavailability, of atmospheric particles following deposition to the surface ocean.
Defining sowing and harvest dates based on the Asian Summer Monsoon
Authors: Mathison Camilla , Deva Chetan , Falloon Pete , Challinor Andrew J.
Published: November 2017

Abstract. Sowing and harvest dates are a significant source of uncertainty within crop models especially for regions where high-resolution data are unavailable or, as is the case in future climate runs, where no data are available at all. Global datasets are not always able to distinguish when wheat is grown in tropical and sub-tropical regions, they are also often coarse in resolution. South Asia is one such region where large spatial variation means higher resolution datasets are needed, together with greater clarity for the timing of the main wheat growing season. Agriculture in South Asia is closely associated with the dominating climatological phenomena, the Asian Summer Monsoon (ASM). Rice and wheat are two highly important crops for the region, rice being mainly cultivated in the wet season during the summer monsoon months and wheat during the dry winter. We present a method for estimating the crop sowing and harvest dates, for rice and wheat, using the ASM onset and retreat. The aim of this method is to provide a more accurate alternative to the global datasets of cropping calendars than are currently available and generate input for climate impact assessments. We first demonstrate that there is skill in the model prediction of monsoon onset and retreat for two downscaled General Circulation Models (GCMs) by comparing modelled precipitation with observations. We then calculate and apply sowing and harvest rules for rice and wheat for each simulation to climatological estimates of the monsoon onset and retreat for a present day period. We show that this method reproduces the present day sowing and harvest dates for most parts of India. Application of the method to two future simulations demonstrates that the estimated sowing and harvest dates are successfully modified to ensure that the growing season remains consistent with the internal model climate. The study therefore provides a useful way of modelling potential growing season adaptations to changes in future climate.
Freshwater fish fauna of rivers in the southern Western Ghats, India
Authors: Arunkumar Anbu Aravazhi , Manimekalan Arunachalam
Published: November 2017

Abstract. We studied the freshwater fish fauna of Rivers of Southern Western Ghats for a period of three years from 2010 to 2013. We recorded 64 species belonging to 6 orders, 14 families and 31 genera. Alteration in the micro and macro habitats in the system severely affects the aquatic life especially fishes and also complicates the fish taxonomy. In the present study a total of 31 sites of six river systems of Southern Western Ghats were studied in which a total of 64 species belonging to 6 orders, 14 families and 31 genera were recorded. Among the 64 species Cyprinidae was the dominant family with 3 family 18 genus and 49 species (76.6 %) compared to other order and families, further the data analyses suggested that species belonging to the order Cypriniformes were found to be the dominant species in the locations considered in the present survey. Interestingly, among the 31 sites Thunakadavu stream, Gulithuraipatti, Athirappalli, Naduthotam, Nadathittu, Mullaithodu, Thonanthikla, Noolpuzha and Sinnaru exhibited high variations in species abundance and as well species richness. Fifteen out of the 64 fish species endangered to the Western Ghats. Garra periyarensis and Cirrhinus cirrhosus are known to be vulnerable and Hemibagrus punctatus is Critically Endangered because of various anthropogenic activities. The significances of the study and timely measures needed to protect the species have also been concisely discussed. https://doi.org/10.1594/PANGAEA.882214
A global satellite environmental data record derived from AMSR-E and AMSR2 microwave Earth observations
Authors: Du Jinyang , Kimball John S. , Jones Lucas A. , Kim Youngwook , Glassy Joseph , Watts Jennifer D.
Published: November 2017

Abstract. Spaceborne microwave remote sensing is widely used to monitor global environmental changes for understanding hydrological, ecological, and climate processes. A new global land parameter data record (LPDR) was generated using similar calibrated, multifrequency brightness temperature (Tb) retrievals from the Advanced Microwave Scanning Radiometer for EOS (AMSR-E) and the Advanced Microwave Scanning Radiometer 2 (AMSR2). The resulting LPDR provides a long-term (June 2002–December 2015) global record of key environmental observations at a 25 km grid cell resolution, including surface fractional open water (FW) cover, atmosphere precipitable water vapor (PWV), daily maximum and minimum surface air temperatures (Tmx and Tmn), vegetation optical depth (VOD), and surface volumetric soil moisture (VSM). Global mapping of the land parameter climatology means and seasonal variability over the full-year records from AMSR-E (2003–2010) and AMSR2 (2013–2015) observation periods is consistent with characteristic global climate and vegetation patterns. Quantitative comparisons with independent observations indicated favorable LPDR performance for FW (R ≥ 0.75; RMSE  ≤  0.06), PWV (R ≥ 0.91; RMSE  ≤  4.94 mm), Tmx and Tmn (R ≥ 0.90; RMSE  ≤  3.48 °C), and VSM (0.63 ≤ R ≤ 0.84; bias-corrected RMSE  ≤  0.06 cm3 cm−3). The LPDR-derived global VOD record is also proportional to satellite-observed NDVI (GIMMS3g) seasonality (R ≥ 0.88) due to the synergy between canopy biomass structure and photosynthetic greenness. Statistical analysis shows overall LPDR consistency but with small biases between AMSR-E and AMSR2 retrievals that should be considered when evaluating long-term environmental trends. The resulting LPDR and potential updates from continuing AMSR2 operations provide for effective global monitoring of environmental parameters related to vegetation activity, terrestrial water storage, and mobility and are suitable for climate and ecosystem studies. The LPDR dataset is publicly available at http://files.ntsg.umt.edu/data/LPDR_v2/.
Unsupervised detection of salt marsh platforms: a topographic method
Authors: Goodwin Guillaume C. H. , Mudd Simon M. , Clubb Fiona J.
Published: November 2017

Abstract. Salt marshes filter pollutants, protect coastlines against storm surges, and sequester carbon, yet are under threat from sea level rise and anthropogenic modification. The productivity and even survival of salt marsh vegetation depends on the topographic evolution of marsh platforms. Quantifying marsh platform topography is vital for improving the management of these valuable landscapes. Determining platform boundaries currently relies on supervised classification methods requiring near-infrared data to detect vegetation, or demands labor-intensive field surveys and digitization. We propose a novel, unsupervised method to reproducibly isolate saltmarsh scarps and platforms from a DEM, referred to as Topographic Identification of Platforms (TIP). Field observations and numerical models show that saltmarshes mature into sub-horizontal platforms delineated by sub-vertical scarps: based on this premise, we identify scarps as lines of local maxima on a slope raster, then fill landmasses from the scarps upward, thus isolating mature marsh platforms. We test the TIP method using lidar-derived DEMs from six saltmarshes in England with varying tidal ranges and geometries, for which topographic platforms were manually distinguished from tidal flats. Agreement between manual and unsupervised classification exceeds 94 % for DEM resolutions of 1 m, with all but one sites maintaining an accuracy superior to 90 % for resolutions up to 3 m. For resolutions of 1 m, platforms detected with the TIP method are comparable in surface area to digitized platforms, and have similar elevation distributions. We also find that our method allows the accurate detection of local bloc failures as small as 3 times the DEM resolution. Detailed inspection reveals that although tidal creeks were digitized as part of the marsh platform, unsupervised classification categorizes them as part of the tidal flat, causing an increase in false negatives and overall platform perimeter. This suggests our method would have increased accuracy if used in combination with existing creek detection algorithms. Fallen blocs and high tidal flat portions, associated with potential pioneer zones, may also be areas of discordance between our method and supervised mapping. Although pioneer zones prove difficult to classify using a topographic method, it also suggests that these transition areas should be considered when analysing erosion and accretion processes, particularly in the case of incipient marsh platforms. Ultimately, we have shown that unsupervised classification of marsh platforms from high-resolution topography is possible and sufficient to monitor and analyze topographic evolution.
Intercomparison of Antarctic ice shelf, ocean, and sea ice interactions simulated by two models
Authors: Naughten Kaitlin A. , Meissner Katrin J. , Galton-Fenzi Benjamin K. , England Matthew H. , Timmermann Ralph , Hellmer Hartmut H. , Hattermann Tore , Debernard Jens B.
Published: November 2017

Abstract. An increasing number of Southern Ocean models now include Antarctic ice shelf cavities, and simulate thermodynamics at the ice-shelf/ocean interface. This adds another level of complexity to Southern Ocean simulations, as ice shelves interact directly with the ocean and indirectly with sea ice. Here we present the first published model intercomparison and evaluation of present-day ocean/sea-ice/ice-shelf interactions, as simulated by two models: a circumpolar Antarctic configuration of MetROMS (ROMS: Regional Ocean Modelling System coupled to CICE: Community Ice CodE) and the global model FESOM (Finite Element Sea-ice/ice-shelf Ocean Model), where the latter is run at two different levels of horizontal resolution. From a circumpolar Antarctic perspective, we compare and evaluate simulated ice shelf basal melting and sub-ice shelf circulation, as well as sea ice properties and Southern Ocean water mass characteristics as they influence the sub-ice shelf processes. Despite their differing numerical methods, the two models produce broadly similar results, and share similar biases in many cases. Both models reproduce many key features of observations, but struggle to reproduce others, such as the high melt rates observed in the small warm-cavity ice shelves of the Amundsen and Bellingshausen Seas. Several differences in model design show a particular influence on the simulations. For example, FESOM's greater topographic smoothing can alter the geometry of some ice shelf cavities enough to affect their melt rates; this improves at higher resolution, since less smoothing is required. In the interior Southern Ocean, the vertical coordinate system affects the degree of water mass erosion due to spurious diapycnal mixing, with MetROMS' terrain-following coordinates leading to more erosion than FESOM's z-coordinates. Finally, increased horizontal resolution in FESOM leads to higher basal melt rates for small ice shelves, through a combination of stronger circulation and small-scale intrusions of warm water from offshore.
Projection of future glacier and runoff change in Himalayan headwater Beas basin by using a coupled glacier and hydrological model
Authors: Li Lu , Hou Yukun , Xu Chong-Yu , Chen Hua , Jain Sharad K.
Published: November 2017

Abstract. The Himalayan Mountains are the source region of one of the world's largest supplies of freshwater. The changes in glacier melt may lead to droughts as well as extreme rains and floods in the Himalaya basins, which are vulnerable to the hydrological impacts. This study used a glacio-hydrological model: Glacier and Snow Melt – WASMOD model (GSM-WASMOD) for the hydrological projections under 21st century climate change by two RCMs under two Representative Concentration Pathways (RCP4.5 and RCP 8.5) in order to assess the future water change at the Himalayan Beas basin. In addition, the glacier extent loss of the 21st Century from eight GCMs was also investigated as part of the glacio-hydrological modelling as an ensemble simulation. The glacio-hydrological modeling shows that at present, the annual glacier imbalance accounts for about 14 % of the total runoff in this area. Under Climate change impact, the temperature will increase 0.95 °C (RCP4.5) and 1.67 °C (RCP8.5) for the early future (2046–2055), and increase 1.53 °C (RCP4.5) and 3.4 °C (RCP8.5) for the late future (2090–2099). The glacier area loss is about 47 % (RCP4.5) and 49 % (RCP8.5) for the early future and 73 % (RCP4.5) and 80 % (RCP8.5) for the late future. This will result in a decrease in river runoff in general for all the scenarios. The heaviest decrease of Beas river runoff can be observed in August under RCP4.5 and in May under the RCP8.5 for both the near future and far future. This maximum decrease of river runoff also has the largest spread. Furthermore, a high resolution WRF precipitation suggested a much heavier winter precipitation over high altitude area in the Himalaya Beas river basin. The study helps to understand the hydrological impacts of climate change in North India and make a contribution to stakeholders and policy makers with respect to the future of water resources in North India.
Climate uncertainty in flood protection planning
Authors: Dittes Beatrice , Špačková Olga , Schoppa Lukas , Straub Daniel
Published: November 2017

Abstract. Technical flood protection is a necessary part of integrated strategies to protect riverine settlements from extreme floods. Many technical flood protection measures, such as dikes and protection walls, are costly to adapt after their initial construction. This poses a challenge to decision makers as there is large uncertainty in how the required protection level will change during the measure life time, which is typically many decades long. Flood protection requirements should account for multiple future uncertain factors: socio-economic, e.g. whether the population and with it the damage potential grows or falls; technological, e.g. possible advancements in flood protection; and climatic, e.g. whether extreme discharge will become more frequent or not. We focus here on the planning implications of the uncertainty in extreme discharge. We account for the sequential nature of the decision process, in which the adequacy of the protection is regularly revised in the future based on the discharges that have been observed by that point and that reduce uncertainty. For planning purposes, we categorize uncertainties as either visible, if they can be quantified from available catchment data, or hidden, if they cannot be quantified from catchment data and must be estimated, e.g. from literature. It is vital to consider the hidden uncertainty, since in practical applications only a limited amount of information (e.g. through projections, historic record) is available. We use a Bayesian approach to quantify the visible uncertainties and combine them with an estimate of the hidden uncertainties to learn a joint probability distribution of the parameters of extreme discharge. The methodology is integrated into an optimization framework and applied to a pre-alpine case study to give a quantitative, cost-optimal recommendation on the required amount of flood protection.
Field-scale water balance closure in seasonally frozen conditions
Authors: Pan Xicai , Helgason Warren , Ireson Andrew , Wheater Howard
Published: November 2017

Abstract. Hydrological water balance closure is a simple concept, yet in practice it is uncommon to measure every significant term independently in the field. Here we demonstrate the degree to which the field-scale water balance can be closed using only routine field observations in a seasonally frozen prairie pasture field site in Saskatchewan, Canada. Arrays of snow and soil moisture measurements were combined with a precipitation gauge and flux tower evapotranspiration estimates. We consider three hydrologically distinct periods: the snow accumulation period over the winter, the snowmelt period in spring, and the summer growing season. In each period, we attempt to quantify the residual between net precipitation (precipitation minus evaporation) and the change in field-scale storage (snow and soil moisture), while accounting for measurement uncertainties. When the residual is negligible, a simple 1-D water balance with no net drainage is adequate. When the residual is non-negligible, we must find additional processes to explain the result. We identify the hydrological fluxes which confound the 1-D water balance assumptions during different periods of the year, notably blowing snow and frozen soil moisture redistribution during the snow accumulation period, and snowmelt runoff and soil drainage during the melt period. Challenges associated with quantifying these processes, as well as uncertainties in the measurable quantities, caution against the common use of water balance residuals to estimate fluxes and constrain models in such a complex environment.
Assessment of Soil Erosion Vulnerability in the Heavily Populated and Ecologically Fragile Communities in Motozintla De Mendoza, Chiapas, Mexico
Authors: González-Morales Selene B. , Mayer Alex , Ramírez-Marcial Neptalí
Published: November 2017

Abstract. The physical aspects and knowledge of soil erosion in six communities in rural Chiapas, Mexico were assessed. Average erosion rates estimated with the RUSLE model ranged from 200 to 1,200 ha−1 yr−1. Most erosion rates are relatively high due to steep slopes, sandy soils and bare land cover. The lowest rates occur where corn is cultivated for much of the year and slopes are relatively low. The results of a knowledge, attitudes and practices (KAP) survey showed that two-thirds of respondents believed that the major cause of soil erosion was hurricanes or rainfall and only 14 % of respondents identified human activities as causes of erosion. Forty-two percent of respondents indicated that the responsibility for solving soil erosion problems lies with government, as opposed to 26 % indicating that the community is responsible. More than half of respondents believed that reforestation is a viable option for reducing soil erosion, but only a third of respondents were currently applying reforestation practices and another one-third indicated that they were not following any conservation practices. The KAP results were used to assess the overall level of knowledge and interest in soil erosion problems and their solutions by compiling negative responses. The community of Barrio Vicente Guerrero may be most vulnerable to soil erosion, since it had the highest average negative response and the second highest soil erosion rate. However, Poblado Cambil had the highest estimated soil erosion rate and a relatively low average negative response rate, suggesting that soil conservation efforts should be prioritized for this community. We conclude that as long as the economic and productive needs of the communities are not solved simultaneously, the risk of soil erosion will increase in the future, which threatens the survival of these communities.
Impact of impurities and cryoconite on the optical properties of the Morteratsch Glacier (Swiss Alps)
Authors: Di Mauro Biagio , Baccolo Giovanni , Garzonio Roberto , Giardino Claudia , Massabò Dario , Piazzalunga Andrea , Rossini Micol , Colombo Roberto
Published: November 2017

Abstract. The amount of reflected energy by snow and ice plays a fundamental role in their melting processes. Different non-ice materials (carbonaceous particles, mineral dust (MD), microorganisms, algae, etc.) can decrease the reflectance of snow and ice promoting the melt. The object of this paper is to assess the capability of field and satellite (EO-1 Hyperion) hyperspectral data to characterize the impact of light-absorbing impurities (LAIs) on the surface reflectance of ice and snow of the Vadret da Morteratsch, a large valley glacier in the Swiss Alps. The spatial distribution of both narrow-band and broad-band indices derived from Hyperion was analyzed in relation to ice and snow impurities. In situ and laboratory reflectance spectra were acquired to characterize the optical properties of ice and cryoconite samples. The concentrations of elemental carbon (EC), organic carbon (OC) and levoglucosan were also determined to characterize the impurities found in cryoconite. Multi-wavelength absorbance spectra were measured to compare the optical properties of cryoconite samples and local moraine sediments. In situ reflectance spectra showed that the presence of impurities reduced ice reflectance in visible wavelengths by 80–90 %. Satellite data also showed the outcropping of dust during the melting season in the upper parts of the glacier, revealing that seasonal input of atmospheric dust can decrease the reflectance also in the accumulation zone of the glacier. The presence of EC and OC in cryoconite samples suggests a relevant role of carbonaceous and organic material in the darkening of the ablation zone. This darkening effect is added to that caused by fine debris from lateral moraines, which is assumed to represent a large fraction of cryoconite. Possible input of anthropogenic activity cannot be excluded and further research is needed to assess the role of human activities in the darkening process of glaciers observed in recent years.
Investigating future changes in the volume budget of the Arctic sea ice in a coupled climate model
Authors: Keen Ann , Blockley Ed
Published: November 2017

Abstract. We consider the volume budget of the Arctic sea ice in the CMIP5 global coupled model HadGEM2-ES, and evaluate how the budget components evolve during the 21st century under a range of different forcing scenarios. As the climate warms and the ice cover declines, the Arctic sea ice processes that change the most in HadGEM2-ES are summer melting at the top surface of the ice, and basal melting due to extra heat from the warming ocean. However, the declining ice cover affects how much impact these changes have on the ice volume budget, where the biggest contribution to Arctic ice decline is the reduction in the total amount of basal ice formation during the autumn and early winter. This highlights the importance of taking the declining ice area into account when evaluating projected changes in the sea ice budget, especially if comparing models with very different rates of decline. Changes in the volume budget during the 21st century have a distinctive seasonal cycle, with processes contributing to ice decline occurring in May/June and September to November. During July and August the total amount of sea ice melt decreases, due to the reducing ice cover. The choice of forcing scenario affects the rate of ice decline and the timing and magnitude of changes in the volume budget components, but for the HadGEM2-ES model and for the range of scenarios considered for CMIP5, the mean changes in the volume budget depend on the evolving ice area, and are independent of the speed at which the ice cover declines.
The Dark Matter and Dark Energy in Cosmic Evolution
Authors: Liang Bin
Published: November 2017

This article is on an in-depth study of the relationship between the dark matter, dark energy, radiation field and gravitation field, based on the standard cosmic model and the principle that dark energy is originated from the destructive interference of electromagnetic radiation field. It explains the dynamic mechanism of cosmic expansion and contraction, and calculates the densities of dark matter, dark energy, radiation field and gravitation field.
Effect of Obesity on the Work Health-Related Behaviors and Quality of Life of South African Mining Employees: A Pilot Study
Authors: Currie Shereen C. , Smit Michelle , Linda Mondli , Grace Jeanne
Published: November 2017

BACKGROUND: Obesity rates have increased precipitously with a significant economic impact. Aim: The aim of this study was to investigate the effect of obesity on the work health-related behaviors and quality of life (QoL) of employees of mining companies in South Africa.METHODS: Forty (40) subjects from three mining companies were assigned to three BMI categories: normal weight (18.5‒24.9 kg/m2; n = 10), overweight 25.0‒29.9 kg/m2; n = 15), and obese (≥30.0 kg/m2; n = 15). Subjects wore a BodyMedia®FIT armband for seven consecutive days, and completed: 1) the WHO QoL; and 2) the WHO Health at Work survey.RESULTS: There were significant differences in calorie expenditure (p = 0.033), activity patterns (p = 0.017), and number of steps walked daily (p = 0.018) between the overweight and obese groups. Those of normal weight reported being significantly (p = 0.041) more satisfied with their QoL and their leisure time activities and income (p = 0.017) than the obese. Almost all the significant differences with regard to work health-related behaviors were between the overweight and obese groups.CONCLUSION: Results provide preliminary support for targeting weight loss as obesity may adversely influence employees’ work health-related behaviors and QoL.
Using Brothel Leadership to Improve Condom Use among Brothel-based Female Sex Workers in Abuja, Nigeria: Results of a Cluster Randomized Pilot Study
Authors: Okafor Uchenna O. , Crutzen Rik , Sylvia Adebajo , Ifeanyi Okekearu , Van den Borne Bart
Published: November 2017

Support by brothel leaders and the promotion of a conducive environment for HIV prevention programs within brothel establishments are important to promote a safe working environment for Brothel-Based Female Sex Workers (BB FSWs). This study assesses the effects of a cluster randomized pilot trial examining the use of brothel leaders to improve consistent condom use by FSWs residing in brothels and also assessed the feasibility of implementing a similar intervention on a broader scale. Ten brothels in Abuja, Nigeria were randomized and exposed to the experimental (n=5) and control (n=5) arms of the intervention. The feasibility of the intervention and consistent condom use outcomes by FSWs with different partner types as well as condom negotiation self-efficacy were measured. Condom use outcomes and condom negotiation self-efficacy outcomes were analysed using multi-level mixed regression models. A total of 243 FSWs were recruited into the study (control n=66 and experimental n=177) and 107 of them (44%) were available at 16 weeks follow-up. The intervention demonstrated feasibility and positive outcomes for consistent condom use with boyfriends, casual partners and clients of FSWs were obtained. The interaction effect between condition and time indicated increased consistent condom use with boyfriends in the experimental condition (p=0.02). Adherence to the intervention by the FSWs was moderate with the mean sessions attended at 4.4(SD=2.0). The attrition rate during the intervention was high due to mobility of the FSWs. The intervention showed feasibility and effect outcomes indicate promise in enhancing condom use with steady partners of BB FSWs. The design of HIV prevention interventions may benefit from the inclusion of gatekeepers in the promotion of condom use within the brothel, but an adequately powered phase III trial is needed to inform large-scale implementation of this approach.
Reviewer Acknowledgements for Modern Applied Science, Vol. 11, No. 11
Authors: Lee Sunny
Published: November 2017

Reviewer Acknowledgements for Modern Applied Science, Vol. 11, No. 11
Novel Targets for Developing Antiseizure and, Potentially, Antiepileptogenic Drugs
Authors: Patel Dipan C. , Wilcox Karen S. , Metcalf Cameron S.
Published: November 2017

Epilepsy is a chronic neurological disorder caused by abnormal changes in the functions of neuronal circuits and manifested by seizures. It affects patients of all age, substantially worsens the quality of life for the patients as well as their families, and imposes a huge economic burden on the healthcare system. Historically, efforts for discovering and developing antiseizure therapies have been focused on modulating the functions of receptors, transporters, and enzymes expressed by neurons. These drug development efforts have paid off, as we have over 25 antiseizure drugs available in the clinic. However, these drugs mainly provide symptomatic relief from seizures and often cause serious adverse effects. Importantly, almost one-third of patients with epilepsy do not have their seizures adequately controlled by available drugs. To address this problem, researchers are investigating cellular and molecular mechanisms fundamental to the optimal function of neuronal circuits. Evidence shows that disruptions in these mechanisms cause impairment in neuroglial interactions, uncontrolled inflammation, aberrant synaptogenesis, and neurodegeneration in genetic and acquired epilepsies. Many novel therapeutic targets have been identified to target these mechanisms for developing new antiseizure drugs. In addition, the field is exploring new drug targets which may impede the development of epilepsy. We have summarized some of these novel targets in this brief review.
Fertilização mineral e calagem no crescimento de mudas de  Eucalyptus camaldulensis
Authors: Vieira Cristiane Ramos , Weber Oscarlina Lúcia dos Santos
Published: November 2017

A utilização de substratos pode garantir mudas com características morfológicas adequadas para o plantio no campo. Diante disso, realizou-se experimento em viveiro com o objetivo de avaliar a influência da utilização de calcário e diferentes formulações de adubos na produção de mudas de Eucalyptus camaldulensis. As mudas da espécie foram produzidas em tubetes com capacidade para 160 cm³, oriundas de sementes que foram colocadas para germinar em areia e vermiculita. Ao atingirem 15 cm de altura, as plantas foram transplantadas para os tratamentos testados: T1 - 100% Plantmax®; T2 - Plantmax® + NPK + calcário; T3- Plantmax® + calcário + N; T4 - Plantmax® + calcário + P; T5 - Plantmax® + calcário + K; T6 - Plantmax® + N; T7 - Plantmax® + P; T8 - Plantmax® + K; T9 - Plantmax® + calcário, com dez repetições, dispostos em delineamento inteiramente casualizado. A avaliação do crescimento se deu 90 dias após o começo das análises, com as medições de: altura, diâmetro de coleto, biomassa e, concentrações de macronutrientes e de B. Verificou-se que é importante atentar para a utilização de Plantmax® como substrato, pois o mesmo não disponibiliza nutrientes em concentrações adequadas para todas as espécies. As melhores condições para a produção de mudas de E. camaldulensis foi com substrato contendo Plantmax® + calcário + N; Plantmax® + calcário + P; Plantmax® + N; ou Plantmax® + P.
Performance Data from the NIST Photovoltaic Arrays and Weather Station
Authors: Boyd Matthew
Published: November 2017

In July 2012, the National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST) completed construction of threephotovoltaic (PV) arrays on its Gaithersburg, MD campus. Comprehensive data acquisition systems were installed and an onsite weather station was also built to collect ancillary solar and meteorological measurements that are needed for the full characterization and modeling of the PV arrays. These datasets provide high-resolution, low-uncertainty, comprehensive PV performance and weather data for extended, continuous time periods. The creation of these datasets is fulfilling a need of the research and energy communities that few other datasets meet. Data from these systems have been collected for about three years at the time of this publication, between August 2014 and July 2017, and are being provided to the public via an online web portal for viewing and download.
Aquinas, Descartes and the Unity of Substantial Form
Authors: Thomas James
Published: November 2017

The Thomistic doctrine of the unity of substantial form accounts for the Cartesian mind’s close unity with body, but for their independence Paul Hoffman advised the pluralist reading of the composite attributable to William of Ockham and Duns Scotus. Principally to link Cartesian thought to a more extensive ethical tradition, I suggest that the Thomistic doctrine could be developed to respond to Marleen Rozemond’s objections to a scholastic reading if the substantial form is taken to be the argument to incline the conatus or appetite of existence.
APPLICATION OF CONSTRUCTION SCHEDULE FOR MONITORING AND CONTROL OF CIVIL ENGENEERING PROJECTS
Authors: Stanojlović Danijela
Published: November 2017

Construction schedule becomes part of positive practice of our construction. The construction of Building and Residential Complex Stepa Stepanovic has been used for conducting research among responsible contractors on certain aspects of schedule execution, problems during its executions and use in construction process. The results of the research show that there is lack of time and professional teams to produce detail construction schedule. Possiblities provided by the project management softwares are hugh and should be used in order to better assses the current state of construction and risks that accompany it.
ESSENTIAL OIL AND EXTRACTS FROM THYMUS PRAECOX OPIZ SSP. POLYTRICHUS AS NATURAL ANTIOXIDANTS
Authors: Petrović V. Nada , Petrović S. Slobodan , Jovičić Dubravka , Francišković Marina
Published: November 2017

Spices and herbs have been used for centuries by many cultures to enhance the flavor and aroma of foods. Early cultures also recognized the value of using spices and herbs in preserving foods and for their medicinal value. In the present study the essential oil of wild growing Thymus praecox Opiz ssp. polytrichus was isolated by hydrodistillationprocess. Extracts of T. praecox ssp.polytrichuswere prepared by using solvents of varying polarity. Antioxidant potential and ability of essential oil and extractsto neutralize DPPH radicals was investigated. The essential oil showed significantly higher antioxidant activity compared with synthetic antioxidants BHA and BHT. This work provides the basis for the present rapidly increasing interest for the use of natural antioxidants as food antioxidants, functional food ingredients and/or as nutritional supplements.
CERAMICS MATERIALS MICROSTRUCTURE PROGNOSIS WITHIN THE ALTERNATIVE ENERGY SOURCES AND STRUCTURE FRACTAL NATURE FRONTIERS
Authors: Mitić V. Vojislav , Kocić Ljubiša , Paunović Vesna , Bastić Filip
Published: November 2017

Doped ceramics materials structure can be controlled using different synergetic effects as well as consolidation parameters. Additives concentration influence on ceramics microstructure and dielectric properties, based on fractal geometry, is analyzed. These properties level control level is very important in advanced materials prognosis. The Coble's two-sphere model is used as initial one, for developing a new two-ellipsoid model; unlike the spherical geometry, the ellipsoidal-polyhedral geometry,besides better approximation of sintering particles, is in relation with consolidation parameters (sintering time and temperature). The experiments have been based on BaTiO3 with different additives (CeO2, MnCO3, Bi2O3, Fe2O3, Nb2O5, CaZr2O3, Er2O3, Yb2O3, Ho2O3), concentration from 0.01wt% to 1wt%, consolidated under the pressing pressure up to 150 MPa and 1180°C-1380°C sintering temperatures, are used. We performed SEM and EDS analysis.

The fractal nature offers a new approach for the ceramics structure analysis, describing, prognosis and modeling the grains shape and relations between ceramics structure and electric-dielectric properties. The microstructure has a great importance from different alternative energies points of view. World’s interest race in renewable and new generation energy sources development, especially the new batteries systems, are in research and development focus, simultaneously, in the electric cars technologies development. Beside the electrochemical processes and rechargeable speed, the storage capacity has special significance which is enriched by the fractal natureanalysis and these scientific paper contributions with some fundamental electrochemical laws through fractal corrections expressed by the relevant formulas. These are the new frontiers in direction of electrochemical fractal microelectronics. Also, the wind energy as new and alternative energy source has important role growing.

The land and obstacles of fractal nature, influence on air/wind turbulence towards the wind generators propellers, has special effect on the wind speed, described by the logarithmic law equation which is deduced from the similarity theory that is strictly applicable to steady-state horizontally homogeneous conditions in the surface layer. So, definitely in this paper the fractal nature independently existing everywhere within the structures, contact surfaces, practically, from microstructures, even on nano level up to global bulk and massive shapes, fractal nature ceramics materials existence is completely confirmed within the electrochemical thermodynamic and fluid dynamics parameters, are confirmed.
COMMON CAUSES OF CONFLICTS IN CONSTRUCTION PROJECTS – COMPARATIVE ANALYSIS OF PROJECTS IN LIBYA AND SERBIA
Authors: Elmagdobi M. Elmabrok , Čulić Nikola , Beljaković Dejan , Milajić Aleksandar , Pejičić Goran
Published: November 2017

Conflicts are one of the most frequent factors that undermine success of construction projects. Therefore, it is important to recognize and predict the most probable causes of disputes that might arise during the project completion in order to make adequate plans and prepare procedures for their prevention and management. This paper provides comparative analysis of causes of conflicts in construction project in Libya and Serbia, performed in order to identify global and local aspects that should be takent into account within the risk analysis and management.
APPLICATION OF EARTH AND STRAW MIXTURES IN MODERN BUILDING
Authors: Hegediš Ivan , Đurić Neđo , Čeh Arpad , Karaman Golub , Vunjak Danilo , Tenji Edita
Published: November 2017

Building with earth is widespread and still mostly based on traditional experiences. Increasing demands in energy consumption reduction during the construction and exploitation of buildings put more and more in the focus the good features of houses built with earth.Testing of earth mixtures with other natural materials showed that it can get even a quality of bricks, which indicates the lack of appropriate standards for this type of construction.

Testing are performed with mixes of earth and straw intended forrammed earth and adobe construction. This method of preparation and construction applies in alternate construction with straw bales and it is also used in the construction of prefabricated panels with wooden frame filled with a mixture earth and straw where it is possible to build prefabricated structures or as a filling of wall screens in skeletal structural system of larger dimensions and number of floors.

Laboratory tests have shown that the mechanical and thermal properties of this material fulfilled the high demands for the construction of modern buildings. Based on the presented results it can proceed the development and testing of structural elements for that kind of building.

Also, based on results, in the article the authors presented possibilities of architectural design of various building possibilities of objects, as practical examples of prefabrication applied in some countries.