Cold climate

In order to investigate the bacterial diversity in a number of rivers, reservoirs and lakes in northern and central Portugal during the winter of 2004/5 (atypically dry), we applied molecular methodologies, namely denaturing gradient gel electrophoresis with primers targeting fractions of the bacterial 16S rRNA gene. Environmental parameters such as pH, conductivity, inorganic nutrients, total suspended solids and chlorophyll a were determined in order to characterize the trophic status of the studied water bodies. We found water bodies with oligotrophic to hypereutrophic characteristics. Organisms belonging to the Bacteroidetes and Alphaproteobacteria were found at the highest pH environment. Bacteroidetes were also related to high nutrient concentrations. Verrucomicrobia were associated with the most oligotrophic reservoir and low pH values. Actinobacteria were present in all samples from lakes and reservoirs, indicating its preference for lentic water bodies. Cyanobacteria dominance was related to high pH and conductivity levels. In general the conductivity values recorded in winter 2005 were the highest over recent years and chlorophyll a also reached very high levels. The data emphasize an enhanced risk of eutrophication for the studied water bodies, especially in the subsequent months when the temperature rises.

The physiological mechanisms limiting and adjusting cold and heat tolerance have regained interest in the light of global warming and associated shifts in the geographical distribution of ectothermic animals. Recent comparative studies, largely carried out on marine ectotherms, indicate that the processes and limits of thermal tolerance are linked with the adjustment of aerobic scope and capacity of the whole animal as a crucial step in thermal adaptation on top of parallel adjustments at the molecular or membrane level. In accordance with Shelford's law of tolerance decreasing whole animal aerobic scope characterises the onset of thermal limitation at low and high pejus thresholds (pejussgetting worse). The aerobic scope of an animal indicated by falling oxygen levels in the body fluids and or the progressively limited capacity of circulatory and ventilatory mechanisms. At high temperatures, excessive oxygen demand causes insufficient oxygen levels in the body fluids, whereas at low temperatures the aerobic capacity of mitochondria may become limiting for ventilation and circulation. Further cooling or warming beyond these limits leads to low or high critical threshold temperatures (T ) where aerobic scope disappears and transition to an anaerobic mode of mitochondrial metabolism and c progressive insufficiency of cellular energy levels occurs. The adjustments of mitochondrial densities and their functional properties appear as a critical process in defining and shifting thermal tolerance windows. The finding of an oxygen limited thermal tolerance owing to loss of aerobic scope is in line with Taylor's and Weibel's concept of symmorphosis, which implies that excess capacity of any component of the oxygen delivery system is avoided. The present study suggests that the capacity of oxygen delivery is set to a level just sufficient to meet maximum oxygen demand between the average highs and lows of environmental temperatures. At more extreme temperatures only time limited passive survival is supported by anaerobic metabolism or the protection of molecular functions by heat shock proteins and antioxidative defence. As a corollary, the first line of thermal sensitivity is due to capacity limitations at a high level of organisational complexity, i.e. the integrated function of the oxygen delivery system, before individual, molecular or membrane functions become disturbed. These interpretations are in line with the more general consideration that, as a result of the high level of complexity of metazoan organisms compared with simple eukaryotes and then prokaryotes, thermal tolerance is reduced in metazoans. A similar sequence of sensitivities prevails within the metazoan organism, with the highest sensitivity at the organismic level and wider tolerance windows at lower levels of complexity. However, the situation is different in that loss in aerobic scope and progressive hypoxia at the organismic level define the onset of thermal limitation which then transfers to lower hierarchical levels and causes cellular and molecular disturbances. Oxygen limitation contributes to oxidative stress and, finally, denaturation or malfunction of molecular repair, e.g. during suspension of protein synthesis. The sequence of thermal tolerance limits turns into a hierarchy, ranging from systemic to cellular to molecular levels.

Solar energy utilization for covering and offsetting the heating loads of buildings, is a sustainable way to reduce energy consumption (electricity, gas, etc.) for space heating. As such, a Trombe wall technology is a classic passive solar heating system used in buildings, that can be modified and applied to cold climate regions. This work presents a case study on a Trombe wall’s application in relation to its thermal energy output for space heating purposes at a factory building in central Latvia. The solar radiation and temperature measurements were carried out throughout the months of June to October. The results show that the examined wall has a monthly energy yield of 120 to 290 kWh, suggesting that Trombe wall systems are applicable as a secondary space heating source in cold climate regions such as northern Europe, however, a number of design and structural aspects have to be thoroughly considered.

J'aimerais tout d'abord remercier mon directeur, le professeur Warwick F. Vincent, pour sa passion, son enthousiasme contagieux, ses conseils et la motivation à travailler toujours plus fort qu'il m'a transmise. Il a réussi à m'inculquer une grande confiance en moi-même et en mon travail. Je veux exprimer ma gratitude envers le professeur Josef Elster d'avoir accepté d'évaluer ma thèse en tant qu'examinateur externe, ainsi que le professeur Ladd Johnson et la professeure Sylvia Bonilla d'avoir accepté d'être membres de mon comité d'évaluation. Je souhaite également remercier les professeurs Milla Rautio et Isabelle Laurion pour avoir accepter d'être membres de mon comité d'encadrement. J'ai pu profiter de leurs commentaires constructifs tout au long de mes études doctorales, lors de ma présentation de projet et de mes réunions annuelles. Je suis reconnaissante aux co-auteurs de chacun des articles pour leurs contributions et commentaires pertinents. De plus, les membres des laboratoires Vincent, Laurion et Lovejoy ont contribué à la réalisation de cette thèse par leur appui au laboratoire et sur le terrain. Merci aussi à Julie Veillette et Paschale Noël Bégin pour leur aide avec les traductions en français. Cette recherche n'aurait pas été possible sans le support financier des établissements suivants: Fonds de recherche du Québec, Conseil de recherches en sciences naturelles et en génie du Canada (CRSNG) incluant la subvention Frontières de la découverte ADAPT, le Centre d'études nordiques (CEN), ArcticNet et EnviroNord. Je voudrais remercier tous mes amis, en particulier Karita, Ben et Karista d'avoir été mon réseau de soutien au cours de ces années dans la ville de Québec. Nous avions eu beaucoup de plaisir à visiter des parcs nationaux et des pubs ensemble. Enfin, j'aimerais remercier ma famille pour m'avoir insufflé la conviction que je peux réaliser tout ce que souhaite. Merci Maciek, ton soutien inconditionnel à travers mes expériences est garant de cette grande complicité qui nous anime. xiii Avant-propos Cette thèse rassemble les travaux découlant de ma recherche doctorale sous la direction du professeur Warwick F. Vincent. Elle est composée de cinq chapitres, dont trois sont présentés sous forme d'article scientifique. Je suis l'auteur principal de tous ces articles et le responsable de la planification et la réalisation des travaux sur le terrain, la plupart des analyses en laboratoire, l'interprétation de données et la rédaction des articles. L'organisation de cette thèse est la suivante: Chapitre 1 -Introduction générale Chapitre 2 -Phototrophic pigment diversity and picophytoplankton abundance in permafrost thaw lakes. Anna Przytulska, Jérôme Comte, Sophie Crevecoeur, Connie Lovejoy, Isabelle Laurion et Warwick F. Vincent, est soumis à un numéro spécial "Freshwater ecosystems in changing permafrost landscapes" de Biogeosciences. Chapitre 3 -Preconditions for cyanobacterial bloom development in northern lakes: Direct and indirect effects of climate change. Anna Przytulska et Warwick F. Vincent, sera soumis à Freshwater Biology. Chapitre 4 -Climate effects on high latitude Daphnia via food quality and thresholds.

in environmental design of Iranian houses, along with examining and comparing case studies in some Iranian cities like Tabriz,… could determine various aspects of environmental and climatically factors in Iranian traditional architecture and provide approaches for contemporary architecture. "Climate is integration in time of the physical state of the atmospheric environmental characteristic of a certain geographical location. There are different geographical locations in Iran and this provides various climates and every climate has its special characteristics. Iranian researchers, like M. Tavasoli, M. Kasmaee, Dr.H.Ganjee worked on climatic divisions of Iran but the method of Dr.H.ganjee is the best. He divided Iran based on Koppen's method. Koppen divided the world based on growing of plants. Microclimates have effected on urban planning and architecture. In a vast country such as Iran, with different climatic zones, traditional builders in the past have presented a series of logical solutions for human comfort. Iran is basically divided into four climatic regions: Mild-Humid Climate-Cold, Climate-Hot-Mild Climate-Hot-Arid Climate."1 The courtyard in a cold climate is usually the heart of the dwelling spatially, socially, and environmentally. Although, the size of the land, to some extent, is influential, the average sizes of the courtyards are generally determined according to the latitude. They are narrow enough to maintain a shaded area during the heat of the day in summer, but wide enough to receive solar radiation in winter. A courtyard can provide security, privacy, and a comfortable place within the house. The courtyard where it is usually planted with trees, flowers and shrubs, not only provides comfortable condition and beautiful setting. In Tabriz and some other cities of the western part of Iran, the cold weather and snow. On the side opposite the open archway where often are rooms with ABSTRACT This paper concentrates on the results of sustainability caused by Courtyard as a climatic element in Iranian traditional architecture of cold regions. Traditional architecture of Iran is perceived sustainable for having sustainable features. It is able to response to environmental problems from a long period. Its features are based on climatic factors as well as local construction materials of cold regions and Courtyard (hayate-markazi) is one of this features .Courtyard as one of the determining and organizing factor of traditional architecture in cold regions involves varies aspects. This research uses library documents and Internet sites as well as analyzing building plans. Result of this paper; show that considering the experience in traditional architecture of cold regions, it is possible to create an environmental and sustainable architecture.

The present study aimed to develop and validate the Healthy Lifestyle Scale (HLS), a culturally and environmentally specific instrument designed to assess health-promoting behaviors in populations residing in climatically extreme and geographically isolated regions such as Jammu, Kashmir, and Ladakh. These areas experience long, cold winters, frequent snowfall, and dry summers, which pose significant challenges to maintain a healthy lifestyle. Existing lifestyle assessment tools are often developed for temperate urban contexts and fail to account for behaviors influenced by seasonal adaptation, isolation, limited access to fresh food, and restricted mobility. The HLS was constructed through a mixed-method approach involving literature review, expert consultation, and pilot testing, followed by rigorous psychometric evaluation to address this gap. A sample of 517 participants from the target regions completed the initial scale. Exploratory Factor Analysis (EFA) and Confirmatory Factor Analysis (CFA) supported a nine-factor model encompassing physical activity, healthy diet, stress management, hydration, substance use avoidance, preventive health, personal hygiene, environmental responsibility, and social well-being. The model demonstrated good fit indices (CFI = 0.93, IFI = 0.92, CMIN/DF = 3.645); all standardized factor loadings exceeded 0.50. The scale exhibited high test-retest reliability (r = 0.855, p < 0.001), indicating strong temporal stability. Expert review ensured content and criterion validity were confirmed via significant correlations with established health behavior instruments such as the HPLP-II, CSI, PEBS, DAST, and SSQ (r = 0.64 to 0.82, p < 0.001). Regression analysis supported predictive validity, with HLS scores significantly predicting real-world behaviors across multiple domains (β = 0.39 to 0.56, p < 0.001). The relevance of this scale is further reinforced by existing studies emphasizing region-specific interventions to promote health behavior, such as a health literacy initiative in Northern Thailand and research highlighting the role of healthy lifestyles in reducing anxiety during the COVID-19 pandemic. These findings underscore the importance of culturally responsive tools in guiding public health interventions. The HLS emerges as a reliable, valid, and practical tool for researchers, health professionals, and policymakers working in underserved or ecologically sensitive environments. Its future use may extend to other regions with similar challenges, supporting global efforts in personalized health promotion and sustainable lifestyle interventions.

This article reports on the evolution of network structure as it relates to formal and informal social roles in wellbounded, isolated groups. Research was conducted at the Amundsen-Scott South Pole Station. Data was collected on crewmembers' networks of social interaction over each of three winter-over periods, when the station is completely isolated. In addition, data was collected on the informal roles played by crewmembers (e.g., instrumental leadership, expressive leadership). The study found that globally coherent networks in winter-over groups were associated with group consensus on the presence of critically important informal social roles (e.g., expressive leadership) where global coherence is the extent to which a network forms a single group composed of a unitary core and periphery as opposed to being factionalized into two or more subgroups. Conversely, the evolution of multiple subgroups was associated with the absence of consensus on critical informal social roles, above all the critically important role of instrumental leader.

Evidence of a specific pattern of performance decrement in isolated and confined (ICE) environments has not been consistently demonstrated in previous research. Decrements in performance in ICE environments: a) occur in a linear, dose-response manner; b) occur in stages; or c) do not occur at all. There were 83 members of the United States Antarctic Program who spent an austral winter at the Amundsen-Scott South Pole Station (90 degrees S) between 1991 and 1994 and completed the Profile of Moods States (POMS) once a month for an 8-mo period from March through October. Over the entire 8-mo period, there was a decline in depression (p = 0.007) and vigor (p &lt; 0.0001), and an increase in fatigue (p = 0.059) and tension-anxiety (p = 0.075). Of these four measures, only vigor exhibits a linear pattern. Mean scores for tension-anxiety and fatigue were lower during the first half of the winter than the second half (p = 0.074 and 0.077, respectively). In comparisons between each quarter a...

This paper presents a study of the energetic-environmental behaviour in an apartments building in La Plata, which has a mild, warm and humid climate. The detailed analysis started with two audited apartments. The results were transferred to the whole apartments building for its global analysis. As regards the methodology used, the method "Audit-CAD" was used, which allows to measure the thermal and energetic behaviour of the building monthly by means of incorporating the audited information when the formal and energetic indicators are determined. Passive strategies for a redesign of low energy are also suggested (green-retrofit) where concepts of Environmentally Conscious Design (ECD) are involved in order to promote low energetic consumption. The fulfillment of Argentinian standards is verified to ensure its energetic efficacy. For this purpose, "U" values (coefficient of heat transmission) for walls, roofs and openings, superior to the top level of the IRAM standard 11605 about building thermal conditioning are suggested. Subsequently, the accomplishment of the IRAM standard 11900 about labelling energetic efficiency of heat for buildings is verified.

The most hostile place on Earth with the lowest temperature ever recorded of -89.2 °C is the Antarctic ice sheet. This cold, arid, remotely located and perennially ice covered environment has long been considered an analogue to how life might persist in the frozen landscape of the major Astrobiological targets of our solar system suchasMarsortheJupiter’sice-covered moon Europa. In the frame of the ICEXPOSE project presented here the parameters outside the Antarctic Concordia station are utilized as a testbed for performed or planned long-duration space flights and to study the survivability of selected test organisms in an extremely cold (with temperature swings) and highly variable UV environment. The most likely terrestrial organisms to endure such an excursion are extremely tolerant and/or (multi-) resistant microbesextremophiles- that have evolved mechanisms to withstand such severe conditions. The survivability of a variety of human-, space-flight and extreme-associated microor...

In the last decades, both temperature and UVB (280-315 nm) radiation on the surface of the Earth increased at growing rates as a result of human activities. Many studies had evaluated the effects of temperature on aquatic ecosystems, but now the field broadens as the combination and variations of temperature and radiation gains especial importance. In this work we attempt to revisit some of our knowledge about the effects of UVR and temperature on marine and freshwater plankton and fish from temperate regions (defined here as latitudes between 30-60º), especially from the Patagonia area, due to the special characteristics found in these sites. UVR affects (often negatively) almost all processes, from carbon fixation to behavior; and certainly all trophic levels in plankton, from virus to fish larvae. The most prominent UVR danger is probably the mutagenic action of UVB, which will affect a number of processes such as photosynthesis, growth and cell division, among many others. In metazoans, UVR may cause stress upon survival or show sublethal effects such as those in behavior and feeding. It is difficult to extract a general pattern, even in a group of organisms, as responses to UVR appear to be species-specific and strongly influenced by local conditions (e.g., UVR penetration, PAR/UVR ratios, and acclimation). While in many cases significant effects have been determined, a number of mechanisms are available to avoid and / or minimize the damage produced by UVR. However, this may not hold true for global temperature changes. In the case of fishes for example, temperature appears as the main factor driving habitat distributions, so the biogeography must be taken into account to consider the potential outcomes of UVR and temperature changes. Even in the different scenarios predicted by climatic models (including ozone layer recovery and temperature rise over the next decades) more research combining UVR and temperature as factors will be needed to understand responses of aquatic ecosystems into the context of global change.

The main objective of this research is to study the dynamic thermal behavior of the indoor air in a
room equipped with an Earth Air Heat Exchanger under the sunspot effect during the heating
season. For this purpose, an experimental setup was installed to measure the temperature under
the effect of the sunspot movement at different locations (indoor air temperature, wall surface
temperature and blowing temperature). A numerical model of the sunspot was developed under
Fluent (CFD) to accurately determine the distribution of indoor air temperature, wall surface
temperature, and sunspot location for any time and location. The experimental results have
allowed the study to carry out two numerical model validation. The frst concerning the position
and shape of the sunspot and the second concerning the ground surface temperature. With a
relative error of 2.57%, there was good agreement between the simulated and experimental results. The experimental results showed that the temperature difference between the irradiated
and shaded areas for the floor surface and indoor air is 9.5 ◦C for 789.62 W/m2 of solar power
received by the test cell’s glazing. The numerical results showed that the average floor surface
temperature is 6.85 ◦C higher when a sunspot is present than when its effect is ignored. These
results demonstrated that on sunny days, the energy contribution of the sunspot is greater than
that of the EAHE.

On the occasion of building fires, the risk of smoke, which adversely influences escape conditions, must be minimised. One way to reduce the risk is, for example, to pressurise the escape route in order to limit the infiltration of smoke. Careful determination of the design parameters of the pressurisation system is of great importance. This study will propose a new leakage area for single-leaf smoke control doors based on the analysis of the leakage area of the doors in the EN 12101-13 standard, estimating the leakage rate through closed doors. This value is half the currently recommended value, regardless of the opening direction. The determination of the leakage area is supported by measurements in pressurised smoke-free lobbies with single-leaf smoke control doors opening into and outwards from a pressurised space. The measurements are performed using the fans of the lobbies' pressurisation systems to provide the required air volume. The suitability of this method has also been tested using blower door assembly measurements. The newly proposed leakage area takes into account the increased air tightness of the smoke control doors, thereby ensuring that the optimum air volume to be supplied by the pressurisation system can be determined. The results of this research suggest an appropriate leakage area value for designers when using the calculation method proposed by the applicability of the investigated standard.

Nova Scotia is characterized by cold climate and acidic soils and high organic matter for viticultural development. There is little scientific information available about the nutritional management of grapevine varieties cultivated under cold climate conditions even in Nova Scotia. This study carried out in three seasons aimed to find correlations between tissue nutrients with yield and must composition in order to provide better nutritional management for a given variety. The yield of "L'Acadie" variety was correlated with B, K and Mg. In this variety, Ca to Mg ratio could be an interesting indicator of yield. The yield of "New York Muscat" variety was correlated with Zn, while N, P and K was related to bunch weight and weight of berries. Interspecific hybrids presented lower accumulation of B in their tissues than V. vinifera varieties. Zn and Fe were found as determinant micronutrients in "Chardonnay" variety. "Riesling" variety accumulated high levels of K in their tissues even over the optimal values recommended for grapevines. K to Ca ratio could be an important indicator of yield in "Pinot Noir" variety. A strong correlation between the petiole and blade analysis was found in macro and micro-nutrients. These results may contribute to improve the nutritional management of grapevines grown under cold climate conditions, mostly in Nova Scotia. A Nova Escócia é caracterizada por um clima frio e solos ácidos com teores elevados de matéria orgânica, condições onde ocorre a cultura da vinha. Existe pouca informação científica disponível sobre a nutrição e fertilização da vinha cultivada em climas frios. Este estudo, realizado em três vindimas, teve como objetivo encontrar correlações entre os nutrientes dos pecíolos e limbos com a produção e a composição do mosto, a fim de proporcionar uma melhor gestão nutricional para algumas variedades. A produção da variedade "L'Acadie" esteve associada aos teores foliares de B, K e Mg. Nesta variedade, a relação Ca/Mg pode ser um indicador interessante da sua produtividade. A produção da variedade "New York Muscat" demonstrou estar relacionada com o teor foliar de Zn, enquanto os teores de N, P e K foram associados ao peso do cacho e ao peso dos bagos. Híbridos interespecíficos apresentaram menor acumulação de B nos seus tecidos em comparação com as variedades de V. vinifera. O Zn e o Fe foram identificados como micronutrientes determinantes em alguns parâmetros de qualidade do mosto na variedade "Chardonnay". A variedade "Riesling" acumulou altos níveis de K nos seus tecidos, mesmo acima dos valores ideais recomendados para videiras. A razão K/Ca pode ser um indicador importante da produção na variedade "Pinot Noir". Encontrou-se uma forte correlação entre a composição em macro e micronutrientes do pecíolo e do limbo. Os resultados obtidos podem contribuir para uma melhor nutrição das vinhas cultivadas em climas frios, principalmente na Nova Escócia.

Nova Scotia is characterized by cold climate and acidic soils and high organic matter for viticultural development. There is little scientific information available about the nutritional management of grapevine varieties cultivated under cold climate conditions even in Nova Scotia. This study carried out in three seasons aimed to find correlations between tissue nutrients with yield and must composition in order to provide better nutritional management for a given variety. The yield of “L’Acadie” variety was correlated with B, K and Mg. In this variety, Ca to Mg ratio could be an interesting indicator of yield. The yield of “New York Muscat” variety was correlated with Zn, while N, P and K was related to bunch weight and weight of berries. Interspecific hybrids presented lower accumulation of B in their tissues than V. vinifera varieties. Zn and Fe were found as determinant micronutrients in “Chardonnay” variety. “Riesling” variety accumulated high levels of K in their tissues even ...

Climatological and geological site classification intended for Earth-Air Heat Exchanger Technology (EAHE) is an important factor in the design, implementation and optimal operation of such system. In this context, this paper presents an investigation on the heating performance and operating feasibility of two EAHEs in three different geo-climatic regions in Algeria. First, the performances of the EAHEs were experimentally studied in the temperate Oran climate and the corresponding results were used for validation of the numerical part. The experiment allowed to analyze the effect of the pipe material on the performance of the two EAHEs that are made of different materials (PVC and Zinc). After validation of the numerical part, the study was extended to three different climates including a temperate climate for Oran, an arid climate for Bechar and a steppe climate for El-Bayadh cities. For these climates, the heating study is rarely considered in this context. Furthermore, a sensitivity analysis was conducted in order to evaluate the operating feasibility of the EAHEs in the considered regions. The results revealed that the Zinc EAHE is more efficient in a temperate climate with a COP of 9.5 than in an arid or steppe climate with a COP of 8.2 or 8.1, respectively. However, the PVC EAHE is much better in an arid climate with a COP of 9.4 than in a temperate or steppe climate with a COP of 7.6 or 8.4, respectively. Otherwise, both EAHEs exhibited similar behavior in a steppe climate. The results show that the thermal performance of EAHE mainly depends on geo-climatic conditions and the type of pipe material.

In many cold regions around the world, such as northern China and the Nordic countries, on-site concrete is often cured in cold weather conditions. To protect the concrete from freezing or excessively long maturation during the hardening process, contractors use curing measures. Different types of curing measures have different effects on construction duration, cost, and greenhouse gas emissions. Thus, to maximize their sustainability and financial benefits, contractors need to select the appropriate curing measures against different weather conditions. However, there is still a lack of efficient decision support tools for selecting the optimal curing measures, considering the temperature conditions and effects on construction performance. Therefore, the aim of this study was to develop a Modeling-Automation-Decision Support (MADS) framework and tool to help contractors select curing measures to optimize performance in terms of duration, cost, and CO 2 emissions under prevailing temperatures. The developed framework combines a concrete maturity analysis (CMA) tool, a discrete event simulation (DES), and a decision support module to select the best curing measures. The CMA tool calculates the duration of concrete curing needed to reach the required strength, based on the chosen curing measures and anticipated weather conditions. The DES simulates all construction activities to provide input for the CMA and uses the CMA results to evaluate construction performance. To analyze the effectiveness of the proposed framework, a software prototype was developed and tested on a case study in Sweden. The results show that the developed framework can efficiently propose solutions that significantly reduce curing duration and CO 2 emissions.

In this report, we re-examine the debate over the origin of the Martian polar chasmata based on new imaging data provided by the Thermal Emission Imaging System (THEMIS) [1], topographic data from the Mars Orbiter Laser Altimeter (MOLA), and high resolution images from the Mars Orbiting Camera (MOC) . Our primary focus is the north polar region of Mars, including Chasma Boreale and two adjacent smaller chasmata (Figure ). We conclude that a model for chasmata formation that emphasizies long-term aeolian erosion and modification of the polar layered material best explains the available data.

Despite a great increase in our understanding of the molecular biology of the viruses associated with acute upper respiratory tract viral infections (URTIs) there is a remarkable lack of knowledge and ideas about why URTI should exhibit a seasonal incidence. Most publications in this area either acknowledge a complete lack of any explanation for the seasonality of URTI or put forward an explanation relating to an increased ''crowding'' of susceptible persons in winter. This review will discuss some of the ideas concerning the seasonality of URTI and put forward a new hypothesis for discussion, namely that seasonal exposure to cold air causes an increase in the incidence of URTI due to cooling of the nasal airway. The hypothesis is supported by literature reports demonstrating that inhalation of cold air causes cooling of the nasal epithelium, and that this reduction in nasal temperature is suf cient to inhibit respiratory defences against infection such as mucociliary clearance and the phagocytic activity of leukocytes. A case is also made to suggest that warming of the nasal airway during fever and nasal congestion may help to resolve a current URTI.

Snow is a critically important and rapidly changing feature of the Arctic. However, snow-cover and snowpack conditions change through time pose challenges for measuring and prediction of snow. Plausible scenarios of how Arctic snow cover will respond to changing Arctic climate are important for impact assessments and adaptation strategies. Although much progress has been made in understanding and predicting snow-cover changes and their multiple consequences, many uncertainties remain. In this paper, we review advances in snow monitoring and modelling, and the impact of snow changes on ecosystems and society in Arctic regions. Interdisciplinary activities are required to resolve the current limitations on measuring and modelling snow characteristics through the cold season and at different spatial scales to assure human well-being, economic stability, and improve the ability to predict manage and adapt to natural hazards in the Arctic region.

The cold, wet climate of the Arctic has led to the extraordinary preservation of archaeological sites and materials that offer important contributions to the understanding of our common cultural and ecological history. This potential, however, is quickly disappearing due to climaterelated variables, including the intensification of permafrost thaw and coastal erosion, which are damaging and destroying a wide range of cultural and environmental archives around the Arctic. In providing an overview of the most important effects of climate change in this region and on archaeological sites, the authors propose the next generation of research and response strategies, and suggest how to capitalise on existing successful connections among research communities and between researchers and the public.

This is a PDF file of an article that has undergone enhancements after acceptance, such as the addition of a cover page and metadata, and formatting for readability, but it is not yet the definitive version of record. This version will undergo additional copyediting, typesetting and review before it is published in its final form, but we are providing this version to give early visibility of the article. Please note that, during the production process, errors may be discovered which could affect the content, and all legal disclaimers that apply to the journal pertain.

Nepal is a landlocked country with geographic variations that have led its people to develop a variety of distinctive cultures. Part of these cultures is reflected in the way that people create a suitable indoor thermal environment in residential buildings, depending on the outdoor climatic conditions. Temperature preferences may vary depending on the local climate characteristics. The aim of this study was to investigate the clothing adaptation of Nepalese residents in traditional houses during the winter. The indoor thermal conditions were examined during a winter in three regions of Nepal with different climates, including cold, temperate and subtropical climatic regions. A set of thermal measurements and thermal comfort survey was conducted in traditional houses of selected villages in Mustang, Kavrepalanchok, and Sarlahi districts during the winter of 2016. As part of the survey, 275 votes were collected, while the indoor and outdoor thermal conditions were being recorded in 108 houses. The mean indoor globe temperature was 12.2 °C in the cold region, which was 4.7 °C and 10.0 °C lower than that in the temperate and sub-tropical regions, respectively. The estimated mean comfort globe temperature was 13.8 °C in the cold region, which was 4.1 °C and 9.3 °C lower than that in the temperate and sub-tropical regions, respectively. The difference in the regional comfort temperature is quite large, and this is considered mainly due to differences in the adaptive behavior and particularly the clothing adaptation of the residents in these distinct climatic regions. The mean preferred temperature in the cold region was 14.7 °C, which is slightly higher than its mean comfort temperature. The mean clothing insulation was 1.63 clo in the cold region, and 1.32 clo and 1.15 clo in the temperate and sub-tropical regions, respectively. The choice of clothing and its insulation properties during the winter were mainly based on the condition of the building, indoor and outdoor climatic conditions.

Here, we show that alpine lake ecosystems are responsive to interannual variation in climate, based on long-term limnological and meteorological data from the Canadian Rockies. In the 2000s, in years with colder winter temperatures, higher winter snowfall, later snowmelt, shorter ice-free seasons, and dryer summers, relative to the 1990s, alpine lakes became clearer, warmer, and mixed to deeper depths. Further, lakes became more dilute and nutrient-poor, the latter leading to significant declines in total phytoplankton biomass. However, increased concentrations of dissolved organic carbon in lake water stimulated the appearance of small mixotrophic algal species, partially offsetting the decline in autotrophic phytoplankton biomass and increasing algal species richness. The climate regime in the 2000s altered the physical, chemical, and biological character and the function of high-elevation aquatic ecosystems. Forecasts of increased climatic variability in the future pose serious ramifications for both the biodiversity and ecosystem function of high-elevation lakes.

Here, we show that alpine lake ecosystems are responsive to interannual variation in climate, based on long-term limnological and meteorological data from the Canadian Rockies. In the 2000s, in years with colder winter temperatures, higher winter snowfall, later snowmelt, shorter ice-free seasons, and dryer summers, relative to the 1990s, alpine lakes became clearer, warmer, and mixed to deeper depths. Further, lakes became more dilute and nutrient-poor, the latter leading to significant declines in total phytoplankton biomass. However, increased concentrations of dissolved organic carbon in lake water stimulated the appearance of small mixotrophic algal species, partially offsetting the decline in autotrophic phytoplankton biomass and increasing algal species richness. The climate regime in the 2000s altered the physical, chemical, and biological character and the function of high-elevation aquatic ecosystems. Forecasts of increased climatic variability in the future pose serious r...

and lled vacant niches a er the onset of polar conditions ~35 Ma (2). e fossil shes preserved in the Eocene La Meseta Formation on Seymour Island at the tip of the Antarctic Peninsula indicate that before the development of polar conditions the nearshore sh fauna of Antarctica was diverse, cosmopolitan, and not dominated by notothenioids ( ). e only documented notothenioid fossil is a well-preserved neurocranium of the extinct species Proeleginops grandeastmanorum from the La Meseta Formation that is dated to ~40 Ma (6-10). Ecologically, Antarctic notothenioids have diversi ed into both benthic and water column habitats (2). Several lineages are able to utilize water column habitats despite lacking a swim bladder by modi cation of buoyancy through the reduction of ossi cation and the evolution of intra-and intermuscular lipid deposits . A notable group of notothenioid species is the Channichthyidae, or ice shes (Fig. ). Species in this clade are also called the "white-blooded" shes, because of the absence of the oxygen-transporting molecule hemoglobin, which is the result of deleted globin loci possibly initiated by interspeci c hybridization and subsequent introgression (13). ese are the only vertebrates that exhibit this bizarre phenotype and it is thought that the persistence of this apparently deleterious trait is due to the cold oxygen-saturated water that provides adequate oxygen via passive di usion into the body (14).

The thermal dynamics of an air-conditioned indoor stadium are challenging due to internal heat sources and heat gain from the building. An effective air conditioning system is essential for maintaining a comfortable environment. This project investigates occupant comfort and energy efficiency in a sports and recreation stadium in Sarawak, Malaysia. SolidWorks Flow Simulation 2022 and Carrier Hourly Analysis Program v5.11 were used to analyse temperature, airflow, and energy consumption. The stadium can accommodate a maximum capacity of 5,000 occupants. Six simulations were conducted to analyze thermal comfort at different supply air temperatures, using predicted mean vote and percentage of dissatisfied persons. The findings indicate that the selected water-cooled packaged unit achieves a sense of thermal neutrality at a supply air temperature of 19 °C. Meanwhile, the influence of fresh air intake on cooling load and energy consumption was examined. With a 10% fresh air intake, the cooling load is 340.4 tons, or 28.01% of the total energy cost. Increasing the intake to 31% raises the load to 453.2 tons, or 31.30% of the energy cost. At 100% fresh air intake, the cooling load reaches 822.7 tons, accounting for 40.69% of total energy costs. After careful evaluation, a 31% fresh air intake aligns with ASHRAE guidelines, ensuring a balance between ventilation standards and practical airflow at 40,440 CFM. These findings help stakeholders implement efficient air conditioning solutions that enhance occupant comfort and energy efficiency, supporting climate action initiatives.

Whether climate change will turn cold biomes from large long‐term carbon sinks into sources is hotly debated because of the great potential for ecosystem‐mediated feedbacks to global climate. Critical are the direction, magnitude and generality of climate responses of plant litter decomposition. Here, we present the first quantitative analysis of the major climate‐change‐related drivers of litter decomposition rates in cold northern biomes worldwide. Leaf litters collected from the predominant species in 33 global change manipulation experiments in circum‐arctic‐alpine ecosystems were incubated simultaneously in two contrasting arctic life zones. We demonstrate that longer‐term, large‐scale changes to leaf litter decomposition will be driven primarily by both direct warming effects and concomitant shifts in plant growth form composition, with a much smaller role for changes in litter quality within species. Specifically, the ongoing warming‐induced expansion of shrubs with recalcitr...

An assessment of impacts on Arctic terrestrial ecosystems has emphasized geographical variability in responses of species and ecosystems to environmental change. This variability is usually associated with north-south gradients in climate, biodiversity, vegetation zones, and ecosystem structure and function. It is clear, however, that significant east-west variability in environment, ecosystem structure and function, environmental history, and recent climate variability is also important. Some areas have cooled while others have become warmer. Also, east-west differences between geographical barriers of oceans, archipelagos and mountains have contributed significantly in the past to the ability of species and vegetation zones to relocate in response to climate changes, and they have created the isolation necessary for genetic differentiation of populations and biodiversity hot-spots to occur. These barriers will also affect the ability of species to relocate during projected future warming. To include this east-west variability and also to strike a balance between overgeneralization and overspecialization, the ACIA identified four major sub regions based on large-scale differences in weather and climate-shaping factors. Drawing on information, mostly model output that can be related to the four ACIA subregions, it is evident that geographical barriers to species re-location, particularly the distribution of landmasses and separation by seas, will affect the northwards shift in vegetation zones. The geographical constraints-or facilitation-of northward movement of vegetation zones will affect the future storage and release of carbon, and the exchange of energy and water between biosphere and atmosphere. In addition, differences in the ability of vegetation zones to re-locate will affect the biodiversity associated with each zone while the number of species threatened by climate change varies greatly between subregions with a significant hot-spot in Beringia. Overall, the subregional synthesis demonstrates the difficulty of generalizing projections of responses of ecosystem structure and function, species loss, and biospheric feedbacks to the climate system for the whole Arctic region and implies a need for a far greater understanding of the spatial variability in the responses of terrestrial arctic ecosystems to climate change. * only a proxy as the change is derived from functional characteristics of the vegetation produced by the model rather than predictions of specific vegetation composition per se. For a proper vegetation distribution estimate it would be more appropriate to use a proper biogeographical model such as MIOME4. ** based on percentage increase in woody plants produced by LPJ. ***based on the percentage reduction in bare ground produced by LPJ. **** extracted from (13) *****(14) ++ (15) using IS92a scenario

Biological and physical processes in the Arctic system operate at various temporal and spatial scales to impact large-scale feedbacks and interactions with the earth system. There are four main potential feedback mechanisms between the impacts of climate change on the Arctic and the global climate system: albedo, greenhouse gas emissions or uptake by ecosystems, greenhouse gas emissions from methane hydrates, and increased freshwater fluxes that could affect the thermohaline circulation. All these feedbacks are controlled to some extent by changes in ecosystem distribution and character and particularly by large-scale movement of vegetation zones. Indications from a few, full annual measurements of CO 2 fluxes are that currently the source areas exceed sink areas in geographical distribution. The little available information on CH 4 sources indicates that emissions at the landscape level are of great importance for the total greenhouse balance of the circumpolar North. Energy and water balances of Arctic landscapes are also important feedback mechanisms in a changing climate. Increasing density and spatial expansion of vegetation will cause a lowering of the albedo and more energy to be absorbed on the ground. This effect is likely to exceed the negative feedback of increased C sequestration in greater primary productivity resulting from the displacements of areas of polar desert by tundra, and areas of tundra by forest. The degradation of permafrost has complex consequences for trace gas dynamics. In areas of discontinuous permafrost, warming, will lead to a complete loss of the permafrost. Depending on local hydrological conditions this may in turn lead to a wetting or drying of the environment with subsequent implications for greenhouse gas fluxes. Overall, the complex interactions between processes contributing to feedbacks, variability over time and space in these processes, and insufficient data have generated considerable uncertainties in estimating the net effects of climate change on terrestrial feedbacks to the climate system. This uncertainty applies to magnitude, and even direction of some of the feedbacks.

Environmental manipulation experiments showed that species respond individualistically to each environmental-change variable. The greatest responses of plants were generally to nutrient, particularly nitrogen, addition. Summer warming experiments showed that woody plant responses were dominant and that mosses and lichens became less abundant. Responses to warming were controlled by moisture availability and snow cover. Many invertebrates increased population growth in response to summer warming, as long as desiccation was not induced. CO 2 and UV-B enrichment experiments showed that plant and animal responses were small. However, some microorganisms and species of fungi were sensitive to increased UV-B and some intensive mutagenic actions could, perhaps, lead to unexpected epidemic outbreaks. Tundra soil heating, CO 2 enrichment and amendment with mineral nutrients generally accelerated microbial activity. Algae are likely to dominate cyanobacteria in milder climates. Expected increases in winter freeze-thaw cycles leading to ice-crust formation are likely to severely reduce winter survival rate and disrupt the population dynamics of many terrestrial animals. A deeper snow cover is likely to restrict access to winter pastures by reindeer/caribou and their ability to flee from predators while any earlier onset of the snow-free period is likely to stimulate increased plant growth. Initial species responses to climate change might occur at the sub-species level: an Arctic plant or animal species with high genetic/racial diversity has proved an ability to adapt to different environmental conditions in the past and is likely to do so also in the future. Indigenous knowledge, air photographs, satellite images and monitoring show that changes in the distributions of some species are already occurring: Arctic vegetation is becoming more shrubby and more productive, there have been recent changes in the ranges of caribou, and "new" species of insects and birds previously associated with areas south of the treeline have been recorded. In contrast, almost all Arctic breeding bird species are declining and models predict further quite dramatic reductions of the populations of tundra birds due to warming. Species-climate response surface models predict potential future ranges of current Arctic species that are often markedly reduced and displaced northwards in response to warming. In contrast, invertebrates and microorganisms are very likely to quickly expand their ranges northwards into the Arctic.

The maintainability issue is critical for the successful and effective operation of any industry in the extreme cold climatic conditions as the working conditions are made very difficult by low temperature, ice, short period of daylight and lack of support facilities. The objective of this paper is to identify potential risk factors in cold conditions and to provide ergonomic guidelines to reduce risk factors and increase maintainability of industries deployed in cold climate.

C omparatively speaking Antarctic land is almost lifeless, the Antarctic seas are among the most productive seas in the world. The interior of the continent is too hostile to sustain biological life, but a variety of life abounds its edges and adjacent waters. The species of the Polar regions are a few but the numbers of each are many. The present study was made with reference to algal floral diversity in the Shirmacher Oasis (SO) of the Antarctica. Thirty species of algae were recorded, predominantly belonging to blue-green algae (Cyanophyceae). Nitrogen fixing species both heterocystous and unicellular diazotrophs, contributed more than 50% of the counts and their dominance was greatest in the middle of the stream where nitrogen and other nutrients were low. Green algae and diatoms also contributed to the flora. The species composition varied between streams. Glacial and snow drift melt water species contained a distinctive community. Based on the diversity indices, these streams were classified into clusters.

Juveniles of five species of nematodes, Caenorhabditis elegans, Panagrellus redivivus, Pratylenchus agilis, Pristionchus pacificus, and Distolabrellus veechi, were added to solutions with (treatment) and without (control) a commercial ice-nucleating activity (INA) agent. Ten-microliter droplets of the solutions containing the juveniles were placed on glass microscope slides and transferred to a temperaturecontrolled freeze plate where the temperature was reduced to -6 to -8 degrees C. At this temperature, the droplets containing the INA agent froze while those without the agent remained liquid. After 2 minutes, the temperature of the plate was raised to 24 degrees C, and the slides were examined with a light microscope to determine the viability of the juveniles. The results showed that usually most juveniles (43% to 88%, depending on species) in solutions that did not contain the INA agent (controls) were active, indicating that the juveniles were capable of supercooling and were t...

CiteSeerX - Document Details (Isaac Councill, Lee Giles): The microbial community compositions of surface and subsurface marine sediments and sediments lining burrows of marine polychaetes and hemichordates from the North Inlet estuary (near Georgetown, SC) were analyzed ...

Assessing the Arctic The Arctic is experiencing some of the most rapid climate change currently under way across the globe, but consequent ecological responses have not been widely reported. At the close of the Fourth International Polar Year, Post et al. (p. 1355 ) review observations on ecological impacts in this sensitive region. The widespread changes occurring in terrestrial, freshwater, and marine systems, presage changes at lower latitudes that will affect natural resources, food production, and future climate buffering.

In the last decades, both temperature and UVB (280-315 nm) radiation on the surface of the Earth increased at growing rates as a result of human activities. Many studies had evaluated the effects of temperature on aquatic ecosystems, but now the field broadens as the combination and variations of temperature and radiation gains especial importance. In this work we attempt to revisit some of our knowledge about the effects of UVR and temperature on marine and freshwater plankton and fish from temperate regions (defined here as latitudes between 30-60º), especially from the Patagonia area, due to the special characteristics found in these sites. UVR affects (often negatively) almost all processes, from carbon fixation to behavior; and certainly all trophic levels in plankton, from virus to fish larvae. The most prominent UVR danger is probably the mutagenic action of UVB, which will affect a number of processes such as photosynthesis, growth and cell division, among many others. In metazoans, UVR may cause stress upon survival or show sublethal effects such as those in behavior and feeding. It is difficult to extract a general pattern, even in a group of organisms, as responses to UVR appear to be species-specific and strongly influenced by local conditions (e.g., UVR penetration, PAR/UVR ratios, and acclimation). While in many cases significant effects have been determined, a number of mechanisms are available to avoid and / or minimize the damage produced by UVR. However, this may not hold true for global temperature changes. In the case of fishes for example, temperature appears as the main factor driving habitat distributions, so the biogeography must be taken into account to consider the potential outcomes of UVR and temperature changes. Even in the different scenarios predicted by climatic models (including ozone layer recovery and temperature rise over the next decades) more research combining UVR and temperature as factors will be needed to understand responses of aquatic ecosystems into the context of global change.

Prehospital care for injured individuals aims to prevent further harm at the accident scene. One of the main challenges in prehospital care is to address the mental and emotional issues that arise after an accident, as caretakers often have to assess and transport patients without specific guidelines. This study aimed to develop effective care strategies for trauma victims during the pre-hospital phase. The present mixed-methods study was conducted in three phases. In the first phase, we compiled a list of concepts derived from a content analysis that identified challenges in patient management during the prehospital phase. In the second phase, literature on the challenges of prehospital care in traffic accidents was reviewed. In the third phase, utilizing the Delphi method, the initial draft of the identified challenges and proposed corrective solutions developed from the literature review and content analysis were sent to experts in accidents and disasters. A compilation of prehospital care strategies for traffic accident victims intended to treat traumatic victims was finalized. Formulating these strategies in an emergency program and conducting related training courses in a standardized form can effectively improve prehospital care.

Permanently low temperature environments are one of the most abundant microbial habitats on earth. As in most ecosystems, photosynthetic organisms drive primary production in low temperature food webs. Many of these phototrophic microorganisms are psychrophilic; however, functioning of the photosynthetic processes of these enigmatic psychrophiles (the ''photopsychrophiles'') in cold environments is not well understood. Here we describe a new chlorophyte isolated from a low temperature pond, on the Ross Ice Shelf near Bratina Island, Antarctica. Phylogenetic and morphological analyses place this strain in the Chlorella clade, and we have named this new chlorophyte Chlorella BI. Chlorella BI is a psychrophilic species, exhibiting optimum temperature for growth at around 10°C. However, psychrophily in the Antarctic Chlorella was not linked to high levels of membrane-associated poly-unsaturated fatty acids. Unlike the model Antarctic lake alga, Chlamydomonas raudensis UWO241, Chlorella BI has retained the ability for dynamic short term adjustment of light energy distribution between photosystem II (PS II) and photosystem I (PS I). In addition, Chlorella BI can grow under a variety of trophic modes, including heterotrophic growth in the dark. Thus, this newly isolated photopsychrophile has retained a higher versatility in response to environmental change than other well studied cold-adapted chlorophytes.

Dry Valleys of southern Victoria Land, Antarctica. In contrast to tcmperatc lakes that have diurnal photic periods, antarctic (and arctic) lakes have a yearly photic period. An unusual feature of the antarctic lakes is the occurrence of 0, at supersaturated levels in certain portions of the water column. Here we report the first sediment 0, profiles obtained using a microelectrode from a perennially ice-covered antarctic lake. Sediment cores collected in January and October 1987 from Lake Hoare in Taylor Valley show oxygenation down to 15, and in some cases, 25 cm. The oxygenation of sediments several centimeters below the sediment-water interface is atypical for lake sediments and may be characteristic of perennially ice-covered lakes. There is a significant difference between the observed January and October sediment 0, profiles. Several explanations may account for the difference, including seasonality. A time-dependent model is presented which tests the feasibility of a seasonal cycle resulting from the long photopcriod and benthic primary production in sediments overlain by a highly oxygenated water column.

Internal combustion engine is sensitive to atmospheric condition. In the stage of cold start of an internal combustion engine, the cold start performance of an internal combustion engine on normal working is significantly higher than the condition at lower surrounding temperature. In cold climate regions cold start problem is a big issue and the review tries to view about this critical issue.

Background: Both temperature and humidity may independently or jointly contribute to the risk of influenza infections. We examined the relations between the level and decrease of temperature, humidity and the risk of influenza A and B virus infections in a subarctic climate. Methods: We conducted a case-crossover study among military conscripts (n = 892) seeking medical attention due to respiratory symptoms during their military training period and identified 66 influenza A and B cases by PCR or serology. Meteorological data such as measures of average and decline in ambient temperature and absolute humidity (AH) during the three preceding days of the onset (hazard period) and two reference periods, prior and after the onset were obtained. The average temperature preceding the influenza onset was -6.8 ± 5.6°C and AH 3.1 ± 1.3 g/m 3 . A decrease in both temperature and AH during the hazard period increased the occurrence of influenza so that a 1°C decrease in temperature and 0.5 g decrease per m 3 in AH increased the estimated risk by 11% [OR 1.11 (1.03 to 1.20)] and 58% [OR 1.58 (1.28 to 1.96)], respectively. The occurrence of influenza infections was positively associated with both the average temperature [OR 1.10 per 1°C (95% confidence interval 1.02 to 1.19)] and AH [OR 1.25 per g/m 3 (1.05 to 1.49)] during the hazard period prior to onset. Our results demonstrate that a decrease rather than low temperature and humidity per se during the preceding three days increase the risk of influenza episodes in a cold climate.

Climate-induced changes in vegetation phenology at northern latitudes are still poorly understood. Continued monitoring and research are therefore needed to improve the understanding of abiotic drivers. Here we used 14 years of time lapse imagery and climate data from high-Arctic Northeast Greenland to assess the seasonal response of a dwarf shrub heath, grassland, and fen, to inter-annual variation in snow-cover, soil moisture, and air and soil temperatures. A late snow melt and start of growing season is counterbalanced by a fast greenup and a tendency to higher peak greenness values. Snow water equivalents and soil moisture explained up to 77 % of growing season duration and senescence phase, highlighting that water availability is a prominent driver in the heath site, rather than temperatures. We found a significant advance in the start of spring by 10 days and in the end of fall by 11 days, resulting in an unchanged growing season length. Vegetation greenness, derived from the imagery, was correlated to primary productivity, showing that the imagery holds valuable information on vegetation productivity.