bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Earthquake site response studies using microtremor measurements in southwestern British Columbia
Authors: Molnar S , Cassidy J F , Monahan P A , Onur T , Ventura C , Rosenberger A
Published: November 2016

In the linear range, the fundamental period and lower-bound estimate of site amplification can be easily determined from a single three-component seismic instrument recording of microtremor (ambient noise), by the horizontal-to-vertical (h/v) spectral ratio
method. Across southwestern British Columbia, this technique has been utilized for (1) validation with available earthquake records, (2) seismic hazard
assessment projects, (3) soil-structure interaction studies, and (4) comparison with shear-wave velocity measurement techniques. Comparison of microtremor and earthquake response at sites across SW British Columbia, show similar peak periods, and in Victoria, remarkably similar amplitudes. This
validates the use of noise recordings for estimation of the fundamental period of a site to linear earthquake motion across SW British Columbia, as well as the estimated level of amplification in greater Victoria. Seismic hazard assessments at 18 greater Victoria schools, across the Fraser River
delta, and along a 10-km stretch of the Sea-to-Sky highway that links Vancouver to Whistler (sites of the 2010 Winter Olympic Games) included the use of microtremor measurements for rapid and economical mapping of relative subsurface physical property variations. To investigate possible
soil-structure interaction at five sites that host an earthquake recording instrument, noise measurements were conducted both inside, and outside of the structure. The resulting fundamental period compared with available indoor, weak-motion earthquake recordings are similar, suggesting little
soil-structure interaction. Furthermore, examination of microtremor recordings made along a transect from the foundation of a 14-storey building to over 150 m away showed no deviation in site response. Comparison of microtremor response with shear-wave velocity measurement techniques are presented
in 9CCEE Paper 1173.
Comparison of geophysical shear-wave velocity methods
Authors: Molnar S , Cassidy J F , Monahan P A , Dosso S E
Published: November 2016

Seismic hazard site assessment within the Canadian building code is primarily based on the average shear-wave velocity of the upper 30 m combined with an appropriate multiplicative amplification hazard factor. The least expensive and time-consuming geophysical
field method to provide a reliable shear-wave velocity profile is therefore of great interest to our engineering community. In greater Victoria, shear-wave velocity profiles are available from 21 seismic cone penetration tests (SCPT), four tests using the spectral analysis of surface waves (SASW)
technique, and two tests using the continuous surface wave system (CSWS) technique. As all three methods involve an active source that generates shear-waves or surface waves, they generally offer a restricted investigation depth (a few tens of metres). A non-active source surface wave method that
uses recordings of microtremor (ambient vibrations/cultural noise) has become popular worldwide due to its ease, economy, deep penetration depth (hundreds of metres), and most surprisingly, correlation with earthquake ground motions. This paper compares the peak frequency observed from (1)
microtremors, (2) earthquake recordings (when available), and estimated from (3) 1-D SHAKE modelling, and (4) shear-wave velocity measurements at SCPT, SASW, and CSWS locations in
greater Victoria. At SCPT sites, the calculated peak frequency is in close agreement with the microtremor peak frequency, as they sample to the same depth. By comparison, bedrock depth was not reached at SASW and CSWS test sites, and as a result the microtremor peak frequency is generally lower than
that calculated from the SASW and CSWS shear-wave velocity values. Overall, the combination of the singleinstrument microtremor method with an invasive (SCPT) method or another non-invasive (SASW and CSWS), but active source method, best demonstrated how the ground will respond, within the linear
range, to a low-level earthquake.
Revised deaggregation of seismic hazard for selected Canadian cities
Authors: Halchuk S , Adams J , Anglin F
Published: November 2016

The Geological Survey of Canada's new seismic hazard model for Canada forms the basis for the seismic design provisions of the 2005 National Building Code of Canada (NBCC). We deaggregate the seismic hazard results for selected cities to help understand the
relative contributions of the earthquake sources in terms of distance and magnitude. Deaggregation for a range of probabilities and spectral accelerations (Sa) from 0.2 to 2.0 seconds is performed to examine in detail the hazard for two of Canada's largest urban centres at high risk, Vancouver in
the west and Montreal in the east. Additional plots and a summary table of deaggregated seismic hazard are provided for other selected Canadian cities, for Sa(0.2), Sa(1.0) and peak ground acceleration (PGA) at a probability of exceedence of 2%/50 years. In most cases, as the probability
decreases, the hazard sources closer to the site dominate. Larger, more distant earthquakes contribute more significantly to hazard for longer periods than shorter periods. Deaggregation plots can provide useful information on the distance and magnitude of predominant sources, which can be used to
generate scenario earthquakes and select corresponding time histories for
seismic design.
Strong motion seismograph networks, data, and research in Canada
Authors: Cassidy J F , Rosenberger A , Rogers G C
Published: November 2016

Strong motion monitoring has undergone a revolution in Canada in recent years. Most analogue,non-communicating instruments have been replaced with modern digital instruments that provideinformation in real-time. Dense networks are being deployed in the urban
centres of southwest BritishColumbia to provide shaking parameters and "shake maps" immediately after an earthquake.Monitoring of critical infrastructure, including bridges, dam sites and transmission facilities is increasing. This article documents the current state of strong motion monitoring
across Canada, andsummarises the data sets that are currently available. As of 2008, the Geological Survey of Canada operates 110 strong motion instruments (Internet Acclerometers or IA's) across Canada, most of whichare deployed in the urban centres of high seismic hazard in southwest British
Columbia. Partnerorganisations operate an additional 70 strong motion instruments monitoring critical infrastructure inwestern Canada. In eastern Canada, the GSC operates a network of 18 strong motion instruments inthe active Charlevoix zone, and 6 IA's in greater Ottawa. Partner organisations
operate instruments atan additional 15 sites. During the past decade, more than 700three component accelerograms have been recorded across Canada. While some large ground motions have been recorded (peak groundacceleration (PGA) greater than 2g), most of the records represent weak motion (PGA less
than 5%g).These are useful for evaluating local site response, which in turn will be valuable to engineersevaluating strong ground shaking during future earthquakes.
Fourth-generation seismic hazard maps for the 2005 national building code of Canada
Authors: Adams J , Halchuk S
Published: November 2016

The Geological Survey of Canada's new seismic hazard model for Canada will form the basis for the seismic design provisions of the 2005 National Building Code of Canada (NBCC). As such it represents Canada's fourth generation of seismic hazard maps (previous ones
were in 1953, 1970, and 1985). The Cornell-McGuire method is used with two complete earthquake source models - historical and regional/geological - to represent the uncertainty in where (and why) earthquakes will happen in the future. Ground motions for a deterministic Cascadia subduction earthquake
are computed for southwestern Canada, and probabilistic seismic hazard for the nearly aseismic central part of Canada is assessed based on a global model. A 'robust' method is used to combine the probabilistic hazard estimates (at a probability of 2%/50 years or 0.000404 p.a.) from the four
source models: the mapped value is the largest of the values. Products will include seismic hazard maps, tabulated values, uniform hazard spectra (UHS), plots of deaggregated hazard and documentation. For the seismic provisions of the 2005 National Building Code of Canada the median ground motion on
firm soil sites for spectral acceleration at periods of 0.2, 0.5, 1.0 and 2.0 seconds and peak acceleration will be used. The four spectral parameters will allow the construction of approximate UHS for each locality, and hence improve earthquake-resistant design.
Advanced SAR applications for Canada's cryosphere (freshwater ice and permafrost), final technical report
Authors: van der Sanden J J , Geldsetzer T , Short N , Brisco B
Published: November 2016

This report documents the results of the Canada Centre for Remote Sensing (CCRS) led GRIP supported Project 'Advanced SAR Applications for Canada's Cryosphere (Freshwater ice, and Permafrost)' (IMOU 10MOA41003) that was carried out from April 2010 to March 2012.
The project addressed GRIP segment 1 'Research and Development' (R&D) to develop, demonstrate and plan the implementation of innovative approaches for using satellite radar images to map and monitor the location, extent, and dynamics of fresh water ice and permafrost. The study areas
selected for the GRIP project were mainly located in the arctic and subarctic regions of northern Canada; some sites for the river ice component were located in Manitoba and Alberta. The information gained from the available radar images and supporting on-site information is expected to support the
management of northern environments and northern development activities. Overall, the GRIP project research outcomes have been well documented. More than 30 sample information products were generated, accompanied by more than 20 reports and an equal number of presentations; seven posters were
prepared and presented at national and international meetings. Some 15 papers on GRIP project research related to lake ice, river ice and permafrost were published in the scientific literature.
Reconnaissance sub-bottom profiling survey at Lac Opasatica, Quebec
Authors: Brooks G R
Published: November 2016

As a part of reconnaissance sub-bottom acoustic profiling (SAP) survey on Lac Opasatica, Quebec, 19 SAP were collected from the northern bay area and 27 SAP were collected within Baie Lamy on July 15 and 18, 2014, respectively. Good penetration of the sub-bottom
was obtained in most of the two profiled areas. Three facies can be identified within the SAP returns that represent lacustrine, glaciolacustrine and mass movement deposits. The profiles collected from Lac Opasatica demonstrate the widespread presence of mass movement deposits within this basin.
Baie Lamy is the better location for any follow-up detailed profiling and core collection because of water depths that are generally shallower than the northern bay.
Reconnaissance sub-bottom profiling survey at Lac Flavrian, Quebec
Authors: Brooks G R
Published: November 2016

As part of a reconnaissance sub-bottom acoustic profiling (SAP) survey, 32 SAP were collected from Lac Flavrian, Quebec, on July 14, 2014. The quality of the returns from Lac Flavrian are generally poor with there being little to no penetration of the sub-bottom
along most of the profiles. Despite this, three depositional facies can be identified within the lake basin returns that represent lacustrine, glaciolacustrine and mass movement deposits.
Reconnaissance sub-bottom profiling survey at Lac Caste, Quebec
Authors: Brooks G R
Published: November 2016

As part of a reconnaissance sub-bottom acoustic profiling (SAP) survey, eleven SAP were collected from Lac Caste, Quebec, on July 10, 2014. The returns with the best penetration of the sub-bottom were collected in the small bay in the southern area of the lake
and along the immediate south and west sides of the main basin. There was no penetration of the sub-bottom over most of the central and eastern areas of the main basin. Three facies are present within the SAP returns that represent lacustrine, glaciolacustrine and mass movement deposits. The
profiles collected from Lac Caste demonstrate the presence of mass movement deposits within this basin.
Virtual leadership? The echurch as a South African case in point
Authors: Nell Ian
Published: November 2016

One of the most basic understandings of leadership relates to the fact that it is seen as the involvement of a person, group or organisation that influences and empowers enough people to follow and to bring about change in that area of life (Yukl 2010). A basic assumption in this understanding of leadership is that this kind of influencing and empowerment takes place in real-life situations and face-to-face contact between leaders and followers. The question that the article probes is, taking into account these basic assumptions about leadership, whether one can speak of ‘virtual leadership’ where there is not necessarily face-to-face contact between the leaders and the followers. I argue that it is indeed possible to speak of some kind of leadership and endeavour to investigate the so-called echurch as a case in point. An interview with the leader of the echurch in South Africa, Stephan Joubert, was published recently in the newspaper Die Kerkbode. It was this article that initiated the interest of the researcher to do some further exploration into this practical-theological phenomenon.
Sociodemographic and clinical characteristics of a diabetic population at a tertiary care center in Assam, India
Authors: Borah Meghna , Goswami Rohini
Published: November 2016

Aims: To elucidate the sociodemographic and clinical characteristics of patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) attending a tertiary care hospital in Dibrugarh, Assam.

Subjects and Methods: A total of 132 T2DM patients (74 males and 48 females) were included in the study. Patients were evaluated with detailed history, meticulous examination, and laboratory investigations and given a detailed interview questionnaire to fill out.

Statistical Analysis Used: Graph Pad Prism, published by GraphPad Software, Inc., California.

Results: The highest prevalence was found in the age group 41–50 years (28%). A large number of the study population (35%) was sedentary. It was observed that the body mass index was over the normal range in 42% of the study subjects. Central obesity was observed in 76 patients (58%). Only 9% of the patients had managed to achieve good glycemic control (<6.5%). In our study, 39% of the patients were taking the prescribed medications irregularly. A significant proportion of the study subjects had associated comorbidities such as hypertension (50%), obesity (42%), and dyslipidemia (37%). Fasting blood glucose, postprandial blood glucose, and glycated hemoglobin levels were elevated in both males and females. The values were higher in males, but statistically, the difference was not significant.

Conclusions: The present study revealed that poor glycemic control, irregular medication intake, obesity, dyslipidemia, sedentary lifestyles, and hypertension were prevalent in T2DM patients. Hence, the overall risk profile in patients from Assam was very poor and needs improvement. These data can support health professionals' actions to effectively maintain and provide a more comprehensive approach to management of T2DM.
The ominous octet of “S” in noncommunicable disease
Authors: Sharma Ruchita , Kumar K. V. S. , Kalra Sanjay
Published: November 2016

Noncommunicable diseases (NCDs) have surpassed the infectious disorders as the major causes of morbidity and mortality worldwide. This is the first decade in the existence of humanity, where the prevalence of obesity has surpassed that of the malnutrition. Although the NCD rates have increased in developed countries, the mortality rates have reduced due to the effective management and prevention strategies. Similar trends are not seen in developing countries where the NCD-related mortality is on the rise. The risk factors for NCD are commonly encountered and require a lot of personal involvement to curb the rise. In this review, we shall discuss the common risk factors leading to the NCD and also suggest certain remedial measures. We propose the ominous octet of “S,” a constellation of risk factors starting with the letter “S,” leading to the NCD.
Case Report of Ectopic Ovarian Pregnancy following Fresh Embryo Transfer
Authors: Samara Nivin , Bentov Yaakov
Published: November 2016

Background

Ovarian pregnancy is a rare and challenging clinical phenomenon. Recent studies have identified assisted reproductive treatments and infertility as risk factors. However, neither a definite mechanism nor clear risk factors were identified and therefore prevention strategies are yet unavailable.

Clinical Case

In this article, we present a case of ovarian pregnancy occurring following in vitro fertilization treatment and a fresh embryo transfer. The couple was diagnosed with unexplained infertility and no identifiable risk factors for extrauterine pregnancy. The diagnosis of ovarian pregnancy was made during explorative laparoscopy performed due to suspected extrauterine pregnancy. The patient had normal intra- and postoperative course.

Conclusion

Ovarian pregnancy is an infrequent and a challenging diagnosis. Yet, late diagnosis and lack of appropriate intervention may have long-term implications. Several mechanisms and risk factors are proposed, and their acknowledgment may improve early diagnosis and prevention of complications.
Current and Emerging Uses of Statins in Clinical Therapeutics: A Review
Authors: Davies Jonathan T. , Delfino Spencer F. , Feinberg Chad E. , Johnson Meghan F. , Nappi Veronica L. , Olinger Joshua T. , Schwab Anthony P. , Swanson Hollie I.
Published: November 2016

Statins, a class of cholesterol-lowering medications that inhibit 3-hydroxy-3-methyl-glutaryl-coenzyme A reductase, are commonly administered to treat atherosclerotic cardiovascular disease. Statin use may expand considerably given its potential for treating an array of cholesterol-independent diseases. However, the lack of conclusive evidence supporting these emerging therapeutic uses of statins brings to the fore a number of unanswered questions including uncertainties regarding patient-to-patient variability in response to statins, the most appropriate statin to be used for the desired effect, and the efficacy of statins in treating cholesterol-independent diseases. In this review, the adverse effects, costs, and drug–drug and drug–food interactions associated with statin use are presented. Furthermore, we discuss the pleiotropic effects associated with statins with regard to the onset and progression of autoimmune and inflammatory diseases, cancer, neurodegenerative disorders, strokes, bacterial infections, and human immunodeficiency virus. Understanding these issues will improve the prognosis of patients who are administered statins and potentially expand our ability to treat a wide variety of diseases.
Stackings and the W-cycles Conjecture
Authors: Louder Larsen , Wilton Henry
Published: November 2016

We prove Wise’s W-cycles conjecture. Consider a compact graph Γ' immersing into another graph Γ. For any immersed cycle Λ: S1 ⟶ Γ, we consider the map Λ' from the circular components 𝕊 of the pullback to Γ'. Unless Λ' is reducible, the degree of the covering map 𝕊 ⟶ S1 is bounded above by minus the Euler characteristic of Γ'. As a corollary, any finitely generated subgroup of a one-relator group has a finitely generated Schur multiplier.
Nuij Type Pencils of Hyperbolic Polynomials
Authors: Kurdyka Krzysztof , Paunescu Laurentiu
Published: November 2016

Nuij’s theorem states that if a polynomial p ∈ ℝ[z] is hyperbolic (i.e., has only real roots), then p+sp'' is also hyperbolic for any s ∈ ℝ. We study other perturbations of hyperbolic polynomials of the form pa(z, s) := . We give a full characterization of those a = (a1 , . . . , ad ) ∈ ℝd for which pa(z, s) is a pencil of hyperbolic polynomials. We also give a full characterization of those a = (a1 , . . . , ad ) ∈ ℝd for which the associated families pa(z, s) admit universal determinantal representations. In fact, we show that all these sequences come fromspecial symmetric Toeplitz matrices.
On the Section Conjecture over Function Fields and Finitely Generated Fields
Authors: Saïdi Mohamed
Published: November 2016

We investigate sections of the arithmetic fundamental groups of hyperbolic curves over function fields. As a consequence we prove that the anabelian section conjecture of Grothendieck holds over all finitely generated fields over

\mathbb Q

if it holds over all number fields, under the condition of finiteness (of the

\mathcal l

-primary parts) of certain Shafarevich–Tate groups. We also prove that if the section conjecture holds over all number fields then it holds over all finitely generated fields for curves which are defined over a number field.
Экстремальные характеристики критериев выбора гипотез с заданными попарными расстояниями по вариации
Authors: Savelov M P
Published: November 2016

Изучаются экстремальные значения характеристик нерандомизированных статистических критериев выбора одной из $n$ гипотез, когда известны только попарные расстояния по вариации между ними. Показано, что нахождение экстремальных значений функции общего вида от вероятностей ошибок сводится к решению конечномерной задачи линейного программирования. В случае $n=3$ и функции, равной сумме трех вероятностей ошибок, найдены точные формулы для ее экстремальных значений.
Projekt cinage – Evropski film za dejavno staranje
Authors: Furlan Meta
Published: November 2016

Projekt cinage – Evropski film za dejavno staranje
Peljhan, Matej (ur.) FOTOTERAPIJA Od konceptov do praks Kamnik, CIRIUS, 2015
Authors: Jeznik Katja
Published: November 2016

Peljhan, Matej (ur.) FOTOTERAPIJA Od konceptov do praks Kamnik, CIRIUS, 2015
Michalinos Zembylas in Paul Schutz (ur.) - METHODOLOGICAL ADVANCES IN RESEARCH ON EMOTION AND EDUCATION. Cham, Springer, 2016
Authors: Ličen Nives
Published: November 2016

Michalinos Zembylas in Paul Schutz (ur.) - METHODOLOGICAL ADVANCES IN RESEARCH ON EMOTION AND EDUCATION. Cham, Springer, 2016
Življenje z več jeziki: razvoj večjezičnih govorcev s perspektive vseživljenjskega učenja
Authors: Mezgec Maja
Published: November 2016

Namen članka je ponuditi vpogled v koncept večjezičnosti, prikazati dinamike, ki so pomembne za razumevanje večjezičnosti, in preučiti dejavnike, ki oblikujejo večjezične posameznike in družbo. Po začetni opredelitvi večjezičnosti kot individualnega in družbenega fenomena so v nadaljevanju predstavljeni različni dejavniki, ki vplivajo na večjezični razvoj posameznika. Pri tem sledi avtorica logiki koncentričnih krogov – posameznik, družina, družba/okolje, izobraževalne institucije – in življenjskim obdobjem – zgodnje otroštvo, obdobje šolanja, odraslost. Razumevanje dejavnikov in dinamik je ključna premisa za spoštovanje večjezičnosti in razvijanje medkulturnih kompetenc. Današnja družba je potencialno večjezična, vprašanje pa je, ali bomo znali ta potencial razviti in ovrednotiti. Zato je zavedanje specifičnih okoliščin in dinamik, ki spodbujajo oziroma zavirajo večjezični razvoj posameznikov in družbe, odločilnega pomena.
PSAP gene variants and haplotypes reveal significant effects on carcass and meat quality traits in Chinese Simmental-cross cattle
Authors: Guo Pengcheng , Zhao Zhihui , Yan Shouqing , Li Junya , Xiao Hang , Yang Dongxue , Zhao Yaolu , Jiang Ping , Yang Runjun
Published: November 2016

Abstract. Prosaposin (PSAP) is the precursor protein of four small lysosomal glycoproteins and plays vital roles in muscle growth and development of beef cattle. The aim of this study is to evaluate the association between PSAP gene polymorphisms with carcass composition and meat quality traits of Chinese Simmental-cross cattle. In the present study, six SNPs were identified within intron 10 and exon 11 of the PSAP gene from 380 beef cattle by direct DNA sequencing, and 47 traits of carcass composition and meat quality were measured in the studied population. Then, the relationship between variants of PSAP gene with economic traits was analyzed using statistical methods. The result revealed that I10-65G  >  A, I10-313C  >  T, E11-87C  >  T, and E11-93C  >  G were significantly associated with carcass traits, such as dressing percentage, fat coverage rate, carcass depth, and hind leg width, and I10-162C  >  T and I10-274C  >  T were significantly associated with marbling score traits. In addition, the individuals with GCCCGC haplotype showed significant higher dressed weight, dressing percentage and rib eye area (p <  0.01), and the individuals with ACCTCC haplotype showed a significant association with the pH of beef and backfat thickness in the cattle population (p <  0.05). Our results indicate that these SNPs and haplotypes of the PSAP gene are possible important genetic factors that influence carcass composition and meat quality traits, and they may be useful markers in future marker-assisted selection (MAS) programs in beef cattle breeding and production.
Estimation of the Paris NOx Emissions from mobile MAX-DOAS observations and CHIMERE model simulations using the closed integral method
Authors: Shaiganfar Reza , Beirle Steffen , Dernier van der Gon Hugo , Jonkers Sander , Kuenen Jeroen , Petetin Herve , Zhang Qijie , Beekmann Matthias , Wagner Thomas
Published: November 2016

Abstract. We determine NOx emissions for Paris in summer 2009 and winter 2009/2010 by applying the closed integral method (CIM) to a large set of car Multi-AXis (MAX)-DOAS measurements performed in the frame of the MEGAPOLI project. MAX-DOAS measurements of the tropospheric NO2 vertical column density (VCD) are performed at large circles around Paris. From the combination of the observed NO2 VCDs with wind fields the influx into and the outflux from the encircled area is determined. The difference of both fluxes represents the total emission. Compared to previous applications of the CIM, the large number of measurements during the MEGAPOLI campaign allowed the investigation of important aspects of the CIM. In particular the applicability of the CIM under various atmospheric conditions could be tested. Another important advantage of the measurements during MEGAPOLI is that simultaneous atmospheric model simulations with high spatial resolution (3 × 3 km2) are available for all days. Based on these model data it is possible to test the consistency of the CIM and to derive information about favorable or non-favorable conditions for the application of the CIM. We find that in most situations the uncertainties and the variability of the wind data dominate the total error budget. Also measurement gaps and uncertainties in the partitioning ratio between NO and NO2 are important error sources. Based on a consistency check, we deduced a set of criteria on whether measurement conditions are suitable or not for the application of the CIM. We also developped a method for the calculation of the total error budget of the derived NOx emissions. Typical errors are between ±30 % and ±50 % for individual days (with one full circle around Paris). From the application of the CIM to car MAX-DOAS observations we derive daily average NOx emissions for Paris of 4.2 × 1025 molecules/s for summer and of 7.8 × 1025 molecules/s in winter. These values are by a factor of about 1.4 and 2.0 larger than the corresponding emissions derived from the application of the CIM to the model data, using the TNO-MEGAPOLI emission inventory, in summer and winter, respectively. Similar ratios (1.5 and 2.3 for summer and winter, respectively) were found for the comparison with the MACC-III emission inventory.
Long-lived contrails and convective cirrus above the tropical tropopause
Authors: Schumann Ulrich , Kiemle Christoph , Schlager Hans , Weigel Ralf , Borrmann Stephan , D'Amato Francesco , Krämer Martina , Matthey Renaud , Protat Alain , Voigt Christiane , Volk Michael
Published: November 2016

Abstract. Contrails of the Russian high-flying research aircraft M-55 "Geophysica" are investigated in measurements above the tropical tropopause during the SCOUT-O3 field-experiment near Darwin, Australia, in 2005. The aircraft reached 19 km altitude, far above the tropopause with −87 °C temperature at 17 km. In-situ, lidar, and microwave-temperature profiler measurements on board the Geophysica are used. An upward-looking lidar on the German research aircraft "Falcon", the CPOL radar near Darwin, and NOAA-AVHRR satellites provide complementary data. Exhaust emission indices are derived from a self-match experiment of the Geophysica in the polar stratosphere in 2010. Plume positions are estimated based on measured or analyzed wind and parameterized wake vortex descent. One contrail is detectable in a photo, and characterized in-situ during contrail formation downwind of the overshooting convective system "Hector" of 16 November 2005. The upper part of the contrail formed in the tropical lower stratosphere at ~ 60 % relative humidity over ice at −82 °C. The ~ 1-h lifetime is explained by engine water emissions, slightly enhanced humidity from Hector, low temperature, low turbulence, and possibly nitric-acid hydrate formation. The long persistence suggests large contrail coverage from future high-flying aircraft. Further Geophysica contrail parts are found in the measurements inside the strongly convective Hector clouds on 30 November 2005. Most of the non-volatile aerosol measured over Hector is traceable to aircraft emissions. Cirrus clouds observed by lidar above the anvil occur in coincidence with computed contrail positions. The upper part of the stratospheric anvil can be explained as contrail cirrus in this case. The radar indicates that the cirrus was measured in-situ mostly besides and above overshooting convection, and the maximum ice water content in the overshoots is far higher than measured along the flight path. The evidence suggests that parts of the ice clouds measured are contrails or mixtures of convective and contrail cirrus. The number of ice particles in the contrails is less than 1 % of the number of non-volatile aerosol particles, possibly because of sublimation losses and undetected very small ice particles. The findings are of relevance with respect to hydration of the lower stratosphere, overshooting convection, and future increases of air traffic in the lower stratosphere.
Use of an observation-based aerosol profile in simulations of a mid-latitude squall line during MC3E: Similarity of stratiform ice microphysics to tropical conditions
Authors: Fridlind Ann M. , Li Xiaowen , Wu Di , van Lier-Walqui Marcus , Ackerman Andrew S. , Tao Wei-Kuo , McFarquhar Greg M. , Wu Wei , Dong Xiquan , Wang Jingyu , Ryzhkov Alexander , Zhang Pengfei , Poellot Michael R. , Neumann Andrea , Tomlinson Jason M.
Published: November 2016

Abstract. Advancing understanding of deep convection microphysics via mesoscale modeling studies of well-observed case studies requires observation-based aerosol inputs. Here we derive hygroscopic aerosol size distribution input profiles from ground- based and airborne measurements for six convection case studies observed during the Midlatitude Continental Convective Cloud Experiment (MC3E) over Oklahoma. We demonstrate use of the aerosol inputs in mesoscale model simulations of the only well-observed case study that produced extensive stratiform outflow, on 20 May 2011. At well-sampled elevations between −10 and −23 °C over widespread stratiform rain, ice crystal number concentrations are consistently dominated by a single mode near ∼ 400 μm in randomly oriented maximum dimension (Dmax). The ice mass at −23 °C is primarily in a closely collocated mode, whereas a mass mode near Dmax ∼ 1000 μm becomes dominant with decreasing elevation to the −10 °C level, consistent with possible aggregation during sedimentation. However, simulations with and without observation-based aerosol inputs systematically overpredict mass peak Dmax by a factor of 3–5 and underpredict ice number concentration by a factor of 4–10. Previously reported simulations with both two-moment and size-resolved microphysics have shown biases of a similar nature. The observed ice properties are notably similar to those reported from recent tropical measurements. Based on several lines of evidence, we speculate that the microphysics pathways associated with deep tropical convection outflow also occurred in the 20 May MC3E case, likely associated with warm-temperature ice multiplication that is not well understood or well represented in models.
Forest Fire Finder – DOAS application to long range forest fire detection
Authors: Valente de Almeida Rui , Vieira Pedro
Published: November 2016

Abstract. Fires are an important factor in shaping Earth's ecosystems. Plant and animal life, in almost every land habitat, are at least partially dependant on the effects of fire. However, their destructive force, which many times has proven itself uncontrollable, is one of our greatest concerns, effectively originating several policies in the most important industrialised regions of the globe. This paper aims to comprehensively characterise the Forest Fire Finder (FFF), a forest fire detection system based mainly upon a spectroscopic technique called Differential Optical Absorption Spectroscopy (DOAS). The system is designed and configured with the goal of detecting higher-than-the-horizon smoke columns by measuring and comparing scattered sunlight spectra. The article covers hardware and software, as well as their interactions and specific algorithms for day mode operation. An analysis of data retrieved from several installations deployed in the course of the last five years, is also presented. Finally, this document features a discussion on the most prominent future improvements planned for the system, as well as its ramifications and adaptations, such as a thermal imaging system for short range fire seeking or environmental quality control.
Characterization of the OCO-2 instrument line shape functions using on-orbit solar measurements
Authors: Sun Kang , Liu Xiong , Nowlan Caroline R. , Cai Zhaonan , Chance Kelly , Frankenberg Christian , Lee Richard A. M. , Pollock Randy , Rosenberg Robert , Crisp David
Published: November 2016

Abstract. Accurately characterizing the instrument line shape (ILS) of the Orbiting Carbon Observatory-2 (OCO-2) is challenging and highly important due to its high spectral resolution and requirement for retrieval accuracy (0.25 %) compared to previous space-borne grating spectrometers. On-orbit ILS functions for all three bands of the OCO-2 instrument have been derived using its frequent solar measurements and high-resolution solar reference spectra. The solar reference spectrum generated from the 2016 version of the TCCON solar line list shows significant improvements in the fitting residual compared to the solar reference spectrum currently used in the v7 L2 algorithm in the O2 A band. The analytical functions used to represent the ILS of previous grating spectrometers are found to be inadequate for the OCO-2 ILS. Particularly, the hybrid Gaussian and Super Gaussian functions may introduce spurious variations, up to 5 % of the ILS width, depending on the spectral sampling position, when there is a spectral undersampling. Fitting a homogeneous stretch of the preflight ILS together with the relative widening of the wings of the ILS is insensitive to the sampling grid position and accurately captures the variation of ILS in the O2 A band between decontamination events. These temporal changes of ILS may explain the spurious signals observed in the solar-induce fluorescence retrieval in barren areas.
Long term assessment of the CALIPSO Imaging Infrared Radiometer (IIR) calibration and stability through comparisons with MODIS/Aqua and SEVIRI/Meteosat
Authors: Garnier Anne , Scott Noëlle A. , Pelon Jacques , Armante Raymond , Crépeau Laurent , Six Bruno , Pascal Nicolas
Published: November 2016

Abstract. The quality of the calibrated radiances of the medium-resolution Imaging Infrared Radiometer (IIR) on-board the CALIPSO satellite is quantitatively controlled since the beginning of the mission in June 2006. Two complementary “relative” and “stand-alone” approaches are used, which are related to comparisons of measured brightness temperatures, and to model-to-observations comparisons, respectively. In both cases, IIR channels 1 (8.65 μm), 2 (10.6 μm), and 3 (12.05 μm) are paired with MODIS/Aqua “companion” channels 29, 31, and 32, respectively, as well as with SEVIRI/Meteosat companion channels IR8.7, IR10.8 and IR12, respectively. These pairs were selected before launch to meet radiometric, geometric and space-time constraints. The pre-launch studies were based on simulations and sensitivity studies using the 4A/OP radiative transfer model fed with the more than 2300 atmospheres of the climatological TIGR dataset further sorted out in five air mass types. Over the 9.5 years of operation since launch, in a semi-operational process, collocated measurements of IIR and of its companion channels have been compared at all latitudes over ocean, during day and night, and for all types of scenes in a wide range of brightness temperatures when dealing with the relative approach. The relative approach shows an excellent stability of IIR2-MODIS31 and IIR3-MODIS32 brightness temperature differences (BTD) since launch A slight trend of the IIR1-MODIS29 BTD, equal to −0.02 K/year on average over 9.5 years, is detected by the relative approach at all latitudes and all scene temperatures. For the stand-alone approach, clear sky measurements only are considered, which are directly compared with simulations using 4A/OP and collocated ERA-Interim reanalyses. The clear sky mask is derived from collocated observations from IIR and the CALIPSO lidar. Simulations for clear sky pixels in the tropics reproduce the differences between IIR1 and MODIS29 within 0.02 K, and between IIR2 and MODIS31 within 0.04 K, whereas IIR3-MODIS32 is larger than simulated by 0.26 K. The stand-alone approach indicates that the trend identified from the relative approach originates from MODIS29, whereas no trend (less than ±0.004 K/year) is evidenced for any of the IIR channels. Finally, a year-by-year seasonal bias between nighttime and daytime IIR-MODIS BTDs was found at mid-latitude in the northern hemisphere by the relative approach. It is due to a nighttime IIR bias as determined by the stand-alone approach, which originates from a calibration drift during day-to-night transitions. The largest bias is in June/July with IIR2 and IIR3 too warm by 0.4 K on average, and IIR1 too warm by 0.2 K.
Thin ice clouds in the Arctic: Cloud optical depth and particle size retrieved from ground-based thermal infrared radiometry
Authors: Blanchard Yann , Royer Alain , O'Neill Norman T. , Turner David D. , Eloranta Edwin W.
Published: November 2016

Abstract. Multi-band thermal measurements of zenith sky radiance, along with height profile information, were used in a retrieval algorithm, to estimate cloud optical depth and effective particle diameter of thin ice clouds in the Canadian high-Arctic. Ground-based thermal infrared (IR) radiances for 150 semi-transparent ice clouds cases were acquired at the Polar Environment Atmospheric Research Laboratory (PEARL) in Eureka, Nunavut, Canada (80° N, 86° W). We analyzed and quantified the sensitivity of thermal radiance to several cloud parameters including optical depth, effective particle diameter and shape, water vapor content, thickness and bottom altitude. A look up table retrieval method was used to successfully extract, through an optimal estimation method, cloud optical depth up to values of 2.6 and to separate thin ice clouds into two classes: 1) TIC1 clouds characterized by small crystals (effective particle diameter ≤ 30 μm), and 2) TIC2 clouds characterized by large ice crystals (effective particle diameter > 30 μm). The retrieval technique was validated using data from the Arctic High Spectral Resolution Lidar (AHSRL) and Millimeter Wave Cloud Radar (MMCR). Inversions were performed across three polar winters and results showed a significant correlation (R2 = 0.95) for cloud optical depth retrievals and an overall accuracy of 83 % for the classification of TIC1 and TIC2 clouds. A partial validation relative to an algorithm based on infrared radiance measurements at high spectral resolution between 8 and 21 μm was also carried out. It confirms the robustness of the optical depth retrieval and the fact that the radiometer retrieval was sensitive to small particle (TIC1) sizes.
Simulation of submillimetre atmospheric spectra for characterising potential ground-based remote sensing observations
Authors: Turner Emma C. , Withington Stafford , Newnham David A. , Wadhams Peter , Jones Anna E. , Clancy Robin
Published: November 2016

Abstract. The submillimetre is an understudied region of the Earth's atmospheric electromagnetic spectrum. Prior technological gaps and relatively high opacity due to the prevalence of rotational water vapour lines at these wavelengths have slowed progress from a ground-based remote sensing perspective; however, emerging superconducting detector technologies in the fields of astronomy offer the potential to address key atmospheric science challenges with new instrumental methods. A site study, with a focus on the polar regions, is performed to assess theoretical feasibility by simulating the downwelling (zenith angle = 0°) clear-sky submillimetre spectrum from 30 mm (10 GHz) to 150 µm (2000 GHz) at six locations under annual mean, summer, winter, daytime, night-time and low-humidity conditions. Vertical profiles of temperature, pressure and 28 atmospheric gases are constructed by combining radiosonde, meteorological reanalysis and atmospheric chemistry model data. The sensitivity of the simulated spectra to the choice of water vapour continuum model and spectroscopic line database is explored. For the atmospheric trace species hypobromous acid (HOBr), hydrogen bromide (HBr), perhydroxyl radical (HO2) and nitrous oxide (N2O) the emission lines producing the largest change in brightness temperature are identified. Signal strengths, centre frequencies, bandwidths, estimated minimum integration times and maximum receiver noise temperatures are determined for all cases. HOBr, HBr and HO2 produce brightness temperature peaks in the mK to µK range, whereas the N2O peaks are in the K range. The optimal submillimetre remote sensing lines for the four species are shown to vary significantly between location and scenario, strengthening the case for future hyperspectral instruments that measure over a broad wavelength range. The techniques presented here provide a framework that can be applied to additional species of interest and taken forward to simulate retrievals and guide the design of future submillimetre instruments.
Blue carbon stocks in Baltic Sea eelgrass (Zostera marina) meadows
Authors: Röhr Maria Emilia , Boström Christoffer , Canal-Vergés Paula , Holmer Marianne
Published: November 2016

Abstract. Although seagrasses cover only a minor fraction of the ocean seafloor, their carbon sink capacity accounts for nearly one-fifth of the total oceanic carbon burial and thus play a critical structural and functional role in many coastal ecosystems. We sampled 10 eelgrass (Zostera marina) meadows in Finland and 10 in Denmark to explore seagrass carbon stocks (Corg stock) and carbon accumulation rates (Corg accumulation) in the Baltic Sea area. The study sites represent a gradient from sheltered to exposed locations in both regions to reflect expected minimum and maximum stocks and accumulation. The Corg stock integrated over the top 25 cm of the sediment averaged 627 g C m−2 in Finland, while in Denmark the average Corg stock was over 6 times higher (4324 g C m−2). A conservative estimate of the total organic carbon pool in the regions ranged between 6.98 and 44.9 t C ha−1. Our results suggest that the Finnish eelgrass meadows are minor carbon sinks compared to the Danish meadows, and that majority of the Corg produced in the Finnish meadows is exported. Our analysis further showed that > 40 % of the variation in the Corg stocks was explained by sediment characteristics, i.e. dry density, porosity and silt content. In addition, our analysis show that the root : shoot ratio of Z. marina explained > 12 % and the contribution of Z. marina detritus to the sediment surface Corg pool explained > 10 % of the variation in the Corg stocks. The mean monetary value for the present carbon storage and carbon sink capacity of eelgrass meadows in Finland and Denmark, were 281 and 1809 EUR ha−1, respectively. For a more comprehensive picture of seagrass carbon storage capacity, we conclude that future blue carbon studies should, in a more integrative way, investigate the interactions between sediment biogeochemistry, seascape structure, plant species architecture and the hydrodynamic regime.
Modelling the demand for new nitrogen fixation by terrestrial ecosystems
Authors:   Xu-Ri, Prentice I. Colin
Published: November 2016

Abstract. Continual input of reactive nitrogen (N) is required to support the natural turnover of N in terrestrial ecosystems. This “N demand” can be satisfied in various ways including biological N fixation (BNF) (the dominant pathway under natural conditions), lightning-induced abiotic N fixation, N uptake from sedimentary substrates, and N deposition from natural and anthropogenic sources. We estimated the global new N fixation demand (NNF), i.e. the total new N input required to sustain net primary production (NPP) in non-agricultural terrestrial ecosystems regardless of its origin, using a N-enabled global dynamic vegetation model (DyN-LPJ). DyN-LPJ does not explicitly simulate BNF; rather, it estimates total NNF using a mass balance criterion and assumes that this demand is met from one source or another. The model was run in steady state, and then in transient mode driven by recent changes in CO2 concentration and climate. A range of values for key stoichiometric parameters was considered, based on recently published analyses. Modelled NPP, and C:N ratios of litter and soil organic matter, were consistent with independent estimates. Modelled geographic patterns of ecosystem NNF were similar to other analyses, but actual estimated values exceeded recent estimates of global BNF. The results were sensitive to a few key parameters: the fraction of litter carbon respired to CO2 during decomposition, and plant type-specific C:N ratios of litter and soil. The modelled annual NNF increased by about 15% during the course of the transient run, mainly due to increasing CO2 concentration. The model did not overestimate recent terrestrial carbon uptake, suggesting that the increase in NNF demand has so far been met. Rising CO2 is further increasing the NNF demand, while the future capacity of N sources to support this is unknown.