Temporal Change

-Spa tial re la tion ship in in ter ac tion be tween gla cier and per ma frost in dif fer ent moun tainous en vi ron ments of high and mid lat i tudes, based on GPR re search. Geol. Quart., 55 (4): 375-388. Warszawa. Ground pen e trat ing ra dar (GPR) sur veys were con ducted on both the gla ciers and their forefields in the Tatra Moun tains, North ern Scandi na via and on Spitsbergen -be tween the 49° and 77° lat i tudes. The re sults show that the gla cial and periglacial en vi ron ments inter pen etrate. Per ma frost is pres ent in the gla cier, and gla cial ice may oc cur in the periglacial en vi ron ment. What is com mon for both the en vi ron ments is the pe ren nial melt ing point sur face, with the tem per a ture close to 0°C. In the gla cier it is the bound ary of the cold-temper ate tran si tion sur face and on the forefield -per ma frost base.

Sounds and singing of a bat - audible and visible in spectrograms with notation -

Sack-winged bat (Saccopteryx bilineata) – spektrum: 12-160 kHz -

Analysis with spectrograms and notation of 5 recordings with video -

Contents:
1) Echolocation call (p. 2)  -
Spectrum analysis and effect of echolocation calls -
The auditory impression of the calls in different layers -
2) Young animal with mother in vocal learning (p. 10) -
Rubbing of seconds, overlapping sounds, and echo effects to create interferences -
Mother and pup explore the possibilities for creating interferences and developing proportional sound structures -
3) Mating song (♂ / ♀) (p. 18) -
4) Territorial song ♂ (p. 22) -
A singing in the spectrum of “A-flat major” -
5) Isolation call of a young animal with calls from the mother (p. 27)

Farm, six miles northwest of West Lafayette, Indiana. A total of 18 samples of 0.01 in. or more were collected; rainfall for the period was about 4.7 in., only 37% of normal. The average pH for the 18 samples was about 3.9, approximately 50 times more acidic than naturally-occurring rainfall. The average pH of 3.9 was lower (i.e., more acidic) than the 5-year average of about 4.2. Heavy rainfalls tended to be more acidic than light rainfalls, as the six heaviest rainfalls (pH = 3.9) were six times more acidic than the six lightest rainfalls (pH = 4.7). A strong correlation also existed between wind direction and acidity. Rainwater tended to be more acidic when the upperair winds were from the south, southeast, or southwest prior to the rain event. These directions correspond to the regions of heavy coal burning by power plants in the Ohio Valley.

We detected temporal changes of crustal structure by cross spectrum analyses of seismic waves excited by two artificial explosions that were carried out about one month before and two months after a M6.1 shallow earthquake. Phase spectrum analysis shows that seismic velocity of the upper crust around the focal area of the M6.1 earthquake and Mount lwate decreased 0.3 -1.0 % during the three months. Since lager decreases of the seismic velocity were observed at the region close to the focal area and a volcanic pressure source, we conclude that stress change in the upper crust is a most plausible candidate to cause the velocity changes among other candidates. We further apply a coherence analysis to the observed seismic coda to locate regions where shortwavelength heterogeneity temporally changed. The result indicates a possibility of temporal changes of the heterogeneity beneath the volcano, where a magmatic fluid intrusion is inferred.

Argopecten purpuratus is the most economically important shellfish resource in the central coast of Peru. In the last years, the information about its stock, population structure and temporal changes (recruitment, reproduction, etc.) has increased. However, some aspects of its dynamics during the ENSO periods are still unknown. The present study compares various population parameters of the scallop Argopecten purpuratus between the warm El Niño 1997-98 event and the cold La Niña 1999-2000 event. During El Niño, growth rate was about three times higher than that registered during La Niña, while the population's somatic production and the annual turnover rate (P/B) were respectively tenfold and twice higher than that observed during La Niña. These results demonstrate positive effects of El Niño on the growth and secondary production of A. purpuratus. This knowledge is an important contribution for fishery management system.

Multiple sulfur (δ 34 S sulfate , Δ 33 S sulfate , & Δ 36 S sulfate), nitrogen and oxygen (δ 15 N nitrate & δ 18 O nitrate) and strontium (87 Sr/ 86 Sr) isotope compositions of precipitation collected from Seoul, South Korea were analyzed to study the sources, transportation and deposition of air pollutants in East Asia. The δ 34 S sulfate values (from 1.9 to 14.6‰ with a median of 4.7‰) and the δ 15 N nitrate values (from-2.0 to 13.3‰ with a median of 1.0‰) suggest that fossil fuel use (emission from coal combustion and vehicle exhaust) is a predominant source for sulfur and nitrogen, but other natural sources including biogenic contributions of DMS also add to their total budget. The seasonal variations are observed in δ 34 S sulfate and δ 15 N nitrate values (both higher in winter season), which is likely to result from the increase of coal use for domestic heating in China. The δ 18 O nitrate values also varied seasonally depending on the NO x oxidation pathway, being about 20‰ higher in winter than in summer season. The Δ 33 S sulfate and Δ 36 S sulfate values are not anomalous, showing the absence of MIF signals in precipitation of Seoul. The 87 Sr/ 86 Sr ratio of the precipitation samples range from 0.70988 to 0.71487 with a median of 0.71073, indicating the influence of at least three end-member (silicate dust, carbonate dust and anthropogenic emission). Ionic ratios such as (K + +NH 4 +)/(Ca 2+ +Mg 2+) and Cl-/Na + suggest the overwhelming effect of anthropogenic input rather than carbonate dust on the end-member with lower 87 Sr/ 86 Sr ratios.

Con el propósito de identificar la estructura de variación espacial de algunas propiedades del suelo y optimizar el muestreo para el monitoreo de los cambios en dichas propiedades por efecto del manejo se utilizaron datos provenientes de un muestreo sistemático en dos suelos de ...

Includes bibliographical references.June, 1974.This thesis represents an investigation of soil water recharge and depletion phenomena on a shortgrass prairie site in northeastern Colorado. Soil type, grazing intensity, and various topographic variables were all studied to determine their influence on the soil water balance. The soil water balance was subdivided into three periods: recharge due to snowmelt, recharge due to spring rainfall, and growing season depletion. It was estimated that over 60% of the winter precipitation was lost to a combination of evaposublimation and wind transport of snow; it is highly likely that wind-transported snow accounts for over half of this loss. Despite this loss, approximately 48% of the total soil water recharge received between growing seasons 1970 and 1971 was derived from snowmelt. On some optimum sites snowmelt accounted for over 70% of the total recharge. Of the many topographic variables affecting snow retention on the prairie, slope expos...

Surf and white-winged scoter numbers in North America have declined over the past 50 years. To understand factors affecting mortality rates and to identify potential population bottlenecks, we quantified remigial molt and winter survival of scoters across their Pacific range. During wing molt we deployed 166 transmitters on surf scoters and white-winged scoters in Southeast Alaska, British Columbia and Washington in 2008 and 2009 and monitored the winter fate of 297 surf scoters in Southeast Alaska, British Columbia, and Baja California during 2001-2010. We detected no mortalities during molt and conclude that this period is a safe stage in the annual cycle of scoters. During winter we found an overall, model averaged daily survival rate of 0.9985 (95% CI: 0.9979-0.9989) for surf scoters, corresponding to an overall period survival rate of 0.8219 (95% CI: 0.7599-0.8692) over the 129 day wintering period of our study. Survival was most strongly related to location, period of winter a...

Accurately measuring dissolved oxygen concentrations in fresh and salt water environments has long been an interdisciplinary priority. Many methodologies exist, including two very promising new ones, optical fluorescence quenching optrodes (or optodes) and solid-state voltammetric electrodes. In this study we compare the responsiveness of these two techniques to dynamic changes in dissolved oxygen concentrations, using traditional methods of polarographic oxygen sensors and Winkler's chemical titrations to corroborate the measurements. Advantages of the optrode system include simplicity of operation and high sensitivity when changes in oxygen concentrations are small (< 10 M O 2 min -1 ). Advantages of voltammetry include equally high sensitivity, independent of rate of change of oxygen concentration, and the capability of simultaneously measuring other chemical species. Both systems have the capability of producing high-resolution, continuous oxygen profiles by collecting and reporting real-time data. Kinetic estimates of the binding and dissociation constants for the ruthenium-oxygen complex in the optrode revealed a relatively long half-life of the Ru 2+ -O 2 complex for dissociation (t 1/2 of 43.2 s to equilibrate from a 100 to 0% O 2 saturation change). In contrast, the Ru 2+ -O 2 association constant was 5.0 times faster (t 1/2 of 8.6 s to equilibrate from a 0 to 100% O 2 saturation change). Therefore, because of these differential kinetics, researchers should take care when using a ruthenium-based optrode to measure real-time dissolved oxygen concentrations undergoing temporal variability.

Since their 2002 discovery on a 2893m, bathymetric whale fall in the Monterey Submarine Canyon, California, Zombie worms (Osedax sp.) have garnished plenty of research. While whale fall can provide a nutrient rich, organic resource in deep-sea, oligotrophic environments, it is difficult to determine the length of time the whale has been on the sea floor, hence the need for determining a post whale fall interval (PWFI).

It is difficult to detect and classify multiple point targets in the presence of clutter and noise, in air borne IR image sequence. Most existing approaches assume target of several pixels size or of Gaussian shape with variance of 1.5 pixel. We propose a wavelet based detection technique for multiple single pixel dim targets in IR image sequence in the presence of clutter and noise. Temporal multiscale decomposition is used to detect temporal change. This temporal change map is postprocessed to reduce probability of false alarm and misdetection.

getation effects on runoff. Moreover, this technology offers synoptic and frequent views, which can be very South of experimental forested catchments named "Réal Collouseful for further regionalisations of results. brier" was destroyed by fire in August 1990. Partially or entirely bumt . . catchments became an interesting field to study links between vegetation and runoff. An experimental program was built on two axis : Here we present and discuss the firsts results obtained use of remote sensing techniques to map limits of bumt areas for two years of observation after fire. and recovery of vegetation, year after year. link between vegetation and runoff. The first investigations were done on two bumt catchments (Rimbaud and Meffrey), using a mnoff model fitted with data before fire. This model has permitted to compa-2. GENERAL METHODOLOGY re new data (observed after fire) with the ones we would have observed without fire, for the months just after fire (1990, direct effect of fi- The different stages 6f the study are : re) and the year after (1991, effect of vegetation recovery).

In this study, decision tree models were induced to predict the habitat suitability of six macroinvertebrate taxa: Asellidae, Baetidae, Caenidae, Gammaridae, Gomphidae and Heptageniidae. The modelling techniques were applied on a dataset of 102 samples collected in 31 sites along the river Axios in Northern Greece. The database consisted of eight physical-chemical and seven structural variables, as well as the abundances of 90 macroinvertebrate taxa. A seasonal variable was included allowing the description of potential temporal changes in the macroinvertebrate taxa. Rules relating the presence/absence of six benthic macroinvertebrate taxa with the 15 physical-chemical and structural river characteristics and the seasonal variable were induced using the J48 algorithm. In order to improve the performance and the interpretability of the induced models, three optimisation techniques were applied: tree-pruning, bagging and boosting. The predictive performance of the decision tree models was assessed on the basis of the percentage of Correctly Classified Instances (CCI) and the Cohen's kappa statistic. The results of the present study demonstrated that although the models had a relatively high predictive performance, noise in the dataset and inappropriate input variables prevented to some extent, the models from making reliable predictions. Although tree-pruning did not improve significantly the reliability of the induced models, it reduced considerably the tree complexity and in this way increased the transparency of the trees. Consequently, the induced models allowed for a correct ecological interpretation. The effect of bagging and boosting on the other hand varied considerably between the different models, as well as within different repetitions of 10-fold cross-validation in an individual model. In some cases the predictive performance was improved, in others stable or even worsened. The effect of bagging and boosting seemed to be strongly dependent on the dataset on which the two techniques were applied. Tree-pruning thus proved to have a high potential when applied in models used for decision-making of river restoration and conservation management.

Tomographic reconstruction of the threedimensional auroral arc emission is used to obtain vertical and horizontal distributions of the optical auroral emission. Under the given experimental conditions with a very limited angular range and a small number of observers, algebraic reconstruction methods generally yield better results than transform techniques. Dierent algebraic reconstruction methods are tested with an auroral arc model and the best results are obtained with an iterative least-square method adapted from emission-computed tomography. The observation geometry used during a campaign in Norway in 1995 is tested with the arc model and root-mean-square errors, to be expected under the given geometrical conditions, are calculated. Although optimum geometry was not used, root-mean-square errors of less than 27 for the images and of the order of 307 for the distribution could be obtained. The method is applied to images from real observations. The correspondence of original pictures and projections of the reconstructed volume is discussed, and emission pro®les along magnetic ®eld lines through the three-dimensionally reconstructed arc are calibrated into electron density pro®les with additional EISCAT measurements. Including a background pro®le and the temporal changes of the electron density due to recombination, good agreement can be obtained between measured pro®les and the time-sequence of calculated pro®les. These pro®les are used to estimate the conductivity distribution in the vicinity of the EISCAT site. While the radar can only probe the ionosphere along the radar beam, the three-dimensional tomography enables conductivity estimates in a large area around the radar site.

This study reports a promising, cost-effective nanoscale hydrogen sensor fabricated using the dielectrophoresis (DEP) process. Palladium nanoparticles (NPs) of diameter in the range 2–4 nm were assembled in a 20 nm gap between electrodes under optimized DEP parameters of frequency, voltage and assembling time of 1 M Hz, 1.5 V and 90 s, respectively. The fabricated nanoscale device was powered by applying a dc voltage of 10 mV across nanogap electrodes and temporal change in resistance at an operating temperature of 160 °C was recorded in the presence of 3000 ppm of hydrogen gas. A rise and recovery times of 100 s and 300 s, respectively, in the temporal hydrogen gas response characteristic were observed which could be attributed to the hydride formation due to the strong affinity of assembled palladium NPs towards hydrogen. The nanoscale device was sensitive enough to respond to hydrogen presence even at 30 °C. Preliminary results show the potential of DEP in fabricating cost-effect...

The very long baseline interferometry (VLBI) measurements made in the western U.S. since 1979 as part of the National Aeronautics and Space Administration Crustal Dynamics Project provide discrete samples of the temporal and spatial deformation field. The interpretation of the VLBI-derived rates of deformation requires an examination of geologic information and more densely sampled ground-based geodetic data. In the first two of three related studies embodying this thesis I process triangulation and trilateration data measured on two regional networks, one in the central Mojave Desert and one in the Coast Ranges east of the San Andreas fault. At the spatial scales spanned by these local geodetic networks, auxilliary geologic and geophysical data have been utilized to examine the relation between measured incremental strain and the accommodation of strain seen in local geological structures, strain release in earthquakes, and principal stress directions inferred from in situ measurements. In the third study I process VLBI data from stations distributed across the Pacific -North American plate boundary zone in the western United States. The VLBI data have been used to constrain the integrated rate of deformation across portions of the continental plate boundary in California and to provide a tectonic framework to interpret regional geodetic and geologic studies.

Laboratory experiments were conducted in the white grub laboratory, Department of Entomolo9y. Assam Agricultural University Jorhat, Assam to extract the sol arthropod from matured earthen and concrete floor composts. The soil athropod were extracted by using Tullgren funnel with 40 watt electric bulbs at high light intensity and operated upto 72 hours. The population of soil arthropod extracted from earthen floor compost (40086.90/sq. m) was found to be higher as compared to compost with concrete floor (24603.60 sq.m). In both the composts, the highest population of extraction of soil arthropod (9574.80 and 6484.20/sq.m from earthen and concrete floor composts respectively) was recorded in the month of October and the lowest population of soil arthropod (3272.40 and 2030.10 sq.m from earthen and concrete floor composts respectively) floor compost showed positively significant correlation with compost temperature and moisture. Similarly, the population of soil arthropd from concrete floor compost showed positively significant correlation with compost temperature but with that of compost moisture exhibited positive but non-significant relationship. Various soil arthropod like collembolans. soil mites, pseudoscorpions, ants, larvae earwigs and many unidentified species were recorded from both the composts. In both the composts, the maximum populations of collembolans (5423.70 and 2969.40/sq. m tor earthen and concrete floor composts respectively) and sil mites (3211.80 and 2060.40sa.m for earthen and concrete filoor composts respectively) were recorded in the month of October and the lowest populations were found during Januay. The populations of collembolans and sol mites observed during January were found to be 1575.60 and 757.50/sq.m respectively for earthen floor compost and that of concrete floor compost were found to be 999.90 and 515.10/sq.m respectively s recorded during January. The population of soil arthropod from earthen

A Deus, primeiramente! Pela saúde e perseverança no cumprimento dessa jornada; Muitas pessoas, de diferentes maneiras e distintos lugares que me ajudaram a concluir este trabalho, pois muitos foram os obstáculos, entretanto, igualmente numerosos foram os incentivos. Ao professor Dr. Rodrigo Ferreira Fadini pela orientação, dedicação, conselhos, puxadas de orelha e pela oportunidade de me orientar trabalhando com morcegos e pela imensa amizade; A minha Família que mesmo de longe se faziam tão presentes nos momentos mais difíceis; Agradeço, à Cooperativa Mista da Flona do Tapajós (COOMFLONA) pela oportunidade da parceria, e todo apoio logístico com transporte e alimentação; Agradeço, também, aos Cooperados Sérgio Pimentel, ex. presidente da Cooperativa; ao Jean, presidente da Cooperativa; ao Pedro Pantoja chefe de operações; ao Engenheiro Ambiental e aos Técnicos Florestais Junior e Fininho; Agradeço a equipe de abertura de trilhas, Marquizanor, Victor, Abílio e ao Molequinho pelas fortes emoções durante a abertura dos módulos e por sempre se mostrarem dispostos a ajudar; Aos grandes parceiros e amigos, Elizandra Figueira, Fabrício Santos e Thaiz Lins, pela imensa ajuda em campo, foram me ajudar, resistiram e cumpriram perfeitamente a missão! Aos ajudantes de campo Burú e Peo, pela a ajuda em campo e dedicação durante as coletas; À EMBRAPA, por ceder o alojamento "Dendrogene", onde morei por cerca de 10 messes; Agradeço ao Professor Edson Varga pelo empréstimo de rede de neblina, ensinamentos e amizade; Agradeço ao Professor Luis Reginaldo pelo empréstimo de seu equipamento e amizade; Agradeço ao professor Everton pelo empréstimo de seu densiometro esférico; Agradeço aos bolsistas do Lab. de Genética Elenilce "Naza", Kharen e Jonas "Negão" pela amizade; Agradeço ao Instituto Chico Mendes de Conservação da Biodiversidade (ICMBIO), pelas autorizações concedidas para entrada na FLONA-Tapajós. E por gentilmente cederem a casa "Dendrogene"; Meus agradecimentos aos motoristas de ônibus da BR-163, pelas conversas rumo à base da COOMFLONA. Sou mais grato ainda, aos que paravam e me traziam de volta; Agradeço, fortemente, a minha esposa Sônia Jacobson Castro pelo carinho e companheirismo até mesmo no campo, firme e forte ao meu lado, nos momentos mais difíceis; Agradeço aos amigos Dilailson e João pela amizade e momentos de descontração; Agradeço a Bruna, Brenna e Everton pelos momentos ao longo de disciplinas e a amizade; Meus agradecimentos à minha família, em especial meus pais, por todo o incentivo e apoio na busca por meus objetivos; Ao Conselho Nacional de Pesquisa (CNPq) pela concessão de minha bolsa de mestrado; E a todos que ao longo desses, mais de dois anos, direta ou indiretamente contribuíram para que essa jornada fosse eficientemente cumprida; O meu muito obrigado! EPÍGRAFE "Adoro caminhar em silêncio pelas sombras. Sou um bicho da noite, do crepúsculo, um caçador noturno. O barulho me fere a alma; busco a quietude, o contato comigo mesmo e com a natureza".

The Estonian diaspora was formed by two major, completed, waves of emigration and one further, emerging, wave of out-migration. The first mass emigration started in the mid-nineteenth century and lasted until World War I. During this period, demographic transition was taking place, yet there were limited options for urbanward migration within Estonia. This situation forced many Estonians to look for alternative destinations. Russia attracted migrants to its new agricultural lands and thus the Eastern sub-diaspora of Estonia took shape. The Western sub-diaspora emerged as a result of a second mass emigration in the form of a refugee exodus during World War II. The third and ongoing wave of emigration began at the end of the 1980s, and has broadened the geographical extent of the Western sub-diaspora. This paper outlines the formation of the Estonian sub-diasporas in the East and West, and clarifies the spatial and temporal changes they have undergone. While the formation of the Eastern sub-diaspora is relatively well studied, there are research gaps on the development of the Western one. This paper presents new archival evidence that documents the formation of the Western subdiaspora, particularly in relation to the period following the Soviet era. We also present data on emigration since Estonia regained independence. Key findings indicate that the Eastern sub-diaspora continues to contract, while the size of the Western element of the diaspora has remained stable throughout the postwar period. The continued viability of the Western sub-diaspora is a result of new emigration since the collapse of the Soviet Union, but this outwards migration is smaller in scale than the two earlier periods of mass emigration.

espite therapeutic progress, opportunistic oral fungal infectious diseases have increased in prevalence, especially in denture wearers. The combination of entrapment of yeast cells in irregularities in denture-base and denture-relining materials, poor oral hygiene and several systemic factors is the most probable cause for the onset of this infectious disease. Hence colonization and growth on prostheses by Candida species are of clinical importance. The purpose of this review is to critically discuss several key factors controlling the adhesion of Candida species which are relevant to denture-associated stomatitis. Although there is some consensus on the role of surface properties, studies on several other factors, as the use of denture liners, salivary properties and yeast-bacterial interactions, have shown contradictory findings. A comprehensive fundamental understanding is hampered by conflicting findings due to the large variations in experimental protocols, while other factors have never been thoroughly studied. Surface free energy and surface roughness control the initial adherence, but temporal changes have not been reported. Neither have in vivo studies shown if the substratum type is critical in dictating biofilm accumulation during longer periods in the oral environment. The contribution of saliva is unclear due to factors like variations in its collection and handling. Initial findings have disclosed that also bacteria are crucial for the successful establishment of Candida in biofilms, but the clinical significance of this observation is yet to be confirmed. In conclusion, there is a need to standardize experimental procedures, to bridge the gap between laboratory and in vivo methodologies and findings and -in general -to thoroughly investigate the factors that modulate the initial attachment and subsequent colonization of denture-base materials and the oral mucosa of patients subjected to Candida infections. Information on how these factors can be controlled is required and this may help to prevent the disease. The societal impact of such information is significant given the magnitude of the candidosis problem worldwide.

Solar extreme ultraviolet and x-ray radiation and energetic plasma from Saturn's magnetosphere interact with the upper atmosphere producing an ionosphere at Titan. The highly coupled ionosphere and upper atmosphere system mediates the interaction between Titan and the external environment. New insights into Titan's ionosphere are being facilitated by data from several instruments onboard the Cassini Orbiter, although the Ion and Neutral Mass Spectrometer (INMS) measurements will be emphasized here. We present dayside ionosphere models and compare the results with both RPWS/LP (Radio and Plasma Wave -Langmuir Probe) and INMS data, exploring the sensitivity of models to ionospheric chemistry schemes and solar flux variations. Modeled electron densities for the dayside leg of T18 and all of T17 (dayside) had reasonable agreement with the measured RPWS electron densities and INMS total ion densities. Magnetospheric inputs make at best minor contributions to the ionosphere for these flybys, at least for altitudes above about 1000 km. At lower (<1100 km) altitudes, the total ion densities measured by the INMS are less than the electron densities measured by the RPWS/LP which could be due to heavy (>100 daltons) ions, which the INMS is not able to detect. Qualitatively, INMS spectra exhibit the same ion species and 12 amu family separations for the dayside ionospheres of T17 and T18 as were seen in the mass spectra measured during T5 (nightside). However, the relative abundance of high mass (m > 50) ion species is about 10 times less for the dayside T17 and T18 passes than it was for the polar nightside T5 flyby, which can perhaps be explained in several ways including differences in neutral composition, less dissociative recombination on the nightside than on the dayside (due to lower electron densities and affecting heavier ion species more than lighter ones), and transport of longer-lived high mass species from day to night.

Research surveys are important to evaluate fishery resources' spatial distribution and abundance. Although the underlying sampling is usually conceived with a focus on specific species, efficient designs can also collect data on secondary species. We present a framework to explore and evaluate the adequacy of alternative sampling designs for fishery research surveys aiming to maximize accuracy estimates of the secondary species abundance while maintaining the quality of the abundance estimates of primary species. A geostatistical model-based approach was developed considering the semi-continuous nature of the data and the excess of zero values commonly observed for secondary species. New sampling designs were defined according to optimization weights and evaluated based on the resulting prediction exactness. The framework was applied to the bottom trawl survey conducted along the Portuguese continental coast with European hake, Merluccius merluccius, as the primary species and thornback ray, Raja clavata, as the secondary species. The sampling design URSI provided the best balance between the accuracy for both primary and secondary species. The methodology can be replicated for other bottom trawl research surveys and an extended set of species. We recommend that a decision on which sampling design to adopt in future surveys should consider a cost-efficiency analysis.

Temporal changes in radionuclide transfer factors were evaluated in forage fishes over a 40-to 50-year period. In general, 90 Sr, 60 Co and 137 Cs transfer factors fairly consistent over time, as indicated by strong correlations between measured and estimated values. This conclusion was further strengthened by comparing radionuclide transfer factors measured in Perch Lake biota relative to those reported for other Canadian Shield lakes, since similar values were found. Despite these similarities, however, within-lake differences of up to an order of magnitude were observed for a given species collected in a given year, suggesting that within lakes, there may be factors influencing biota exposure to radionuclides and/or bioavailability.

The variation of the ionosphere is mostly studied using the critical frequency of the F2-layer (foF2) whose values can also be predicted by an ionospheric model. The widely used model for predicting ionospheric parameters is the International Reference Ionosphere (IRI). Aim: This study focuses on evaluating the IRI-2016 model's performance in predicting the critical frequency of the F2-layer at equatorial stations during two extreme phases of solar cycle 22. Methods: Experimental foF2 data from 1989 (Maximum Phase of Solar Activity) and 1986 (Minimum Phase of Solar Activity) at Ougadougou (Geomagnetic Latitude 0.59 o N, Geomagnetic Longitude 71.46 o E) in the African longitudinal sector and Manila (Geomagnetic Latitude 3.4 o N, Geomagnetic Longitude 191.1 o E) in the Asian longitudinal sector, along with IRI-2016 predictions, were analyzed and categorizing into four seasons and considering various diurnal periods of the day. Results: The results indicate that the IRI-2016 model exhibits both overestimation and underestimation of foF2 values at different times, with more significant discrepancies during the post-midnight hours and during the equinox and solstice seasons. However, the seasonal mean values of the IRI-2016 model show improvement, closely matching observed foF2 values at the two stations. Conclusion: The IRI-2016 model, discrepancies are more pronounced in MPSA year than MnPSA year. The URSI option excels over the CCIR option, with closer predicted values to observed values. Both options perform better in the Asian longitudinal sector compared to the African sector.

This study examines the monthly mean diurnal variations of the ionospheric sporadic E (Es) layer's critical frequency (foEs) and virtual height (h′Es) above Baghdad city (latitude 33.3˚N, longitude 44.4˚E) during Solar Cycle 22 (1988-1995). The analysis examines their correlation with solar activity, represented by sunspot numbers, and geomagnetic disturbances, particularly during the descending phase of the cycle. The findings revealed that foEs values were the highest during the solar maximum years (1989-1991), aligning with increased sunspot numbers and geomagnetic activity due to coronal mass ejections (CMEs). However, during the declining phase (1993-1994), foEs exhibited a stronger dependence on geomagnetic disturbances from the recurrent solar wind structure Stream Interaction Regions (SIRs), suggesting that transient interplanetary space phenomena play a significant role in Eslayer dynamics. Additionally, h′Es demonstrated a distinct two-peak diurnal pattern, with maxima occurring in the morning local time (0800-0900 LT) (UCT+3) and late afternoon (1600-1800 LT). Seasonal variations affected peak timing, with summer months experiencing a delayed second peak compared to winter and autumn. The highest h′Es values were observed in 1989 and 1994, reflecting the dual influence of solar maximum conditions and increased geomagnetic activity accompanied by minor and moderate disturbances during the descending phase of the cycle. These results highlighted the complex interplay between solar and geomagnetic influences on Es-layer variability.

Long-term monitoring, with 30 minute sampling interval, of soil temperatures (at depths of 0.02, 0.05, 0.10, 0.20, 0.50, 1,00), and bedrock temperatures (at depths of 1, 2.5, 5, 10, 20, 30 and 40 m), complemented by air temperature measurements at 2 and 0.05 m above the ground, has been started in May 2005 at the Caravelinha borehole climate observatory, near Evora, in south-central Portugal. Its main goal is to study and explore the relationship between air and soil temperatures and its variability on the inter-annual scale, as well as the propagation of seasonal surface temperatures and inter-annual variations into the bedrock. The purpose of the monitoring is to prove, or disprove, the hypothesis that, on the long-term, the difference between the air and the ground temperatures is constant; this hypothesis has been used in climatic interpretation of the ground surface temperature histories obtained from the temperature-depth profiles measured in deep boreholes. The current data allowed estimating the mean annual difference between the ground (at a depth of 2 cm) and the air (at a height of 2 m) for the period 2007 -2009. The difference amounts to +2.61 °C in 2007, +2.93 °C in 2008, and +3.54 °C in 2009. The results indicate that the ground is appreciably warmer than the air on the annual time scale, and that the inter-annual changes of the difference can vary by up to 1 °C. On the seasonal scale, the daily mean of the ground temperature is higher than that of the air temperature for most of the year with maxima in summer (a difference up to +11 °C). The only season with slightly negative difference (up to -3 °C) is winter.

This paper presents a multicontinuum approach to model fractal temporal scaling of catchment response in hydrological systems. The temporal scaling of discharge is quantified in frequency domain by the transfer function HðxÞ, which is defined as the ratio between the spectra of catchment response and recharge time series. The transfer function may scale with frequency x as HðxÞ $ x 2b . While the classical linear and Dupuit models predict exponents of b52 and b51, observations indicate scalings with noninteger exponents b. Such behaviors have been described by multifractal models, which, however, often lack a relation to the medium characteristics. We revisit and extend the classical linear Dupuit aquifer models and discuss their physical meanings in the light of the resulting aquifer dynamics. On the basis of these classical models, we derive a multicontinuum approach that provides physical recharge models which are able to explain fractal behaviors with exponents 1=2 < b < 2. Furthermore, this approach allows to link the fractal dynamics of the discharge process to the physical aquifer characteristics as reflected in the distribution of storage time scales. We systematically analyze the catchment responses in the proposed multicontinuum models, and identify and quantify the time scales which characterize the dynamics of the catchment response to recharge.

In order to better identify, differentiate, and treat stress-related illnesses or behavioural issues in cats, there is an increasing demand for a simple way to measure their stress levels. So, we looked into the potential behavioural changes that could be linked to an adrenocortical reaction to a sudden stress or (shower bath), and how much this response varies depending on the cat's disposition. A feline temperament profile (FTP) was administered to eight male cats to evaluate their behavioural reactions in various test scenarios. An ACTH stimulation test was used to assess the adrenal glands' physiological activity in all of the cats. The felines were surgically implanted with a venous access port system to allow for painless and objective blood collection. Following their recuperation, the cats were subjected to a three-minute spray bath as part of a stress test. Hemochromatometric profiling of cortisol was performed on blood samples taken both before and after the bath. We recorded the cats' every move as they went through the stress test. Researchers looked for associations between FTP scores and adrenocortical and behavioural response markers. While other behaviours remained unchanged, the cats' grooming behaviour increased following the stressor (p<0.05). The levels of circulating cortisol in all cats were considerably elevated by the spray bath; these levels peaked fifteen minutes after the stressor was exposed. During the spray bath, cats whose plasma cortisol levels were high at peak times were found to vocalise more (rs = 0.93; p<0.001) and display less movement (rs =-0.74; p<0.05). There was no correlation between FTP scores and adrenocortical responses. These findings suggest that the cats' individual vocalisation and movement responses to the stressor spray bath were correlative with the plasma cortisol levels minutes following its application. Under these circumstances, the FTP test failed to foretell the behavioural and adrenocortical reactions in anxious cats.

Investigators not normally associated with the CalCOFI program have joined CalCOFI survey cruises to test new techniques or collect data to supplement the customary data suite. Researchers often find that their data become more valuable when collected simultaneously with variables for which a very long (44-year) time series already exists, because it is possible to determine whether or not the conditions at the time of sampling are typical. These non-CalCOFI researchers can also reach desirable sampling sites without great cost in ship transit time, and have the help of a highly trained and competent CalCOFI technical team. Izadore Barrett served as director of the Southwest Fisheries Science Center and as a member of the CalCOFI Committee from 1977 to 1992, when he retired from federal service. Iz was a strong supporter of CalCOFI's mission and helped the program remain current by periodically reevaluating its direction and accomplishments. Iz was instrumental, in 1987, in formalizing CalCOFI's longstanding relations with Mexican scientists into a cooperative fisheries research agreement with Mexico, called MEXUS-Pacifico. Iz served as cochair of MEXUS-Pacific0 from its inception until his retirement. The Committee will miss his presence, his thoughtfulness, and his dry wit. The Committee is pleased to announce the publication, in March of this year, of CalCOFI Atlas 31,

Strontium isotopes are a unique tool to study soil-erosion dynamics. Changes in Sr isotope ratios ( 87 Sr/ 86 Sr) provide a record of late Quaternary landscape denudation of the Edwards Plateau of central Texas, United States. The use of Sr isotopes as a tracer for soil erosion is based on the observation that, in central Texas, the 87 Sr/ 86 Sr ratio of soil correlates with soil thickness. Plants and animals express the 87 Sr/ 86 Sr ratio of exchangeable Sr in the soil. Therefore, we use changes in Sr isotope ratios through a well-dated stratigraphic sequence of fossil plants and animals in Hall's Cave, Kerr County, Texas, as a proxy for temporal changes in soil thickness. By using this record we are able to characterize late Quaternary climate-driven soil-erosion dynamics on the Edwards Plateau. We find that continuous erosion removed at least 180 cm of soil at a constant minimum rate of 11 cm/k.y.; this continuous phase of erosion ended ca. 5 ka. The Sr isotope record of soil erosion is consistent with late Quaternary environmental change in central Texas that has been independently modeled by using local and regional climate records. However, the rate of this climate-driven soil-erosion event was an order of magnitude slower than recent soil erosion caused by human land use. These results link erosion to century-to millennial-scale climate change and are cautionary evidence that even greater landscape degradation may result from coincident climatic variability and anthropogenic influences.

Summary form only given. Microsecond-duration pulsed electric fields (PEFs) above a certain voltage cause electroporation, or increased permeability of the cell membrane due to pore formation, while submicrosecond pulses induce intracellular effects. Models developed to describe and interpret these effects often depend on the electrical properties of the cells, which are altered by the PEF. We determined the complex permittivity

We present results from a study of a partial magnetic polarity transition record from a 9.7 Ma 40 Ar/ 39 Ar dated volcanic section on the island of Gomera (Canary Islands, Spain). The record provides results that bear on the debate over whether long-term persistent features of field behaviour exist during transitions. The sampled section, containing more than 20 flows, begins after the onset of the transition. The nine lowermost flows in the section, which are all transitional, yield virtually identical directions and similar low paleointensities. Following the recovery of virtual geomagnetic pole positions (VGPs) to near the spin axis, paleointensities progress to very high values. Transitional directions lay due west, reflecting the presence of a non-zonal intermediate field. VGPs for these flows cluster in the west Atlantic, which according to Hoffman would correspond to a zone of fastest P-wave propagation in the lower mantle and to a radial flux centre of the present-day non-dipole field. Hoffman had noted a similar occurrence at two other locations. He found that in a select set of volcanic records VGPs tended to group over two areas (Australia and South America), which also corresponded to fast P-wave and non-dipole field anomalies. Given the discontinuous and irregular character typical of volcanic sequences, it is natural to question whether these clusters are merely artefacts of episodic volcanism or actually reflect standstills of the reversing field. We address this question for our record by comparing chemical and magnetomineralogic characteristics of the flows. We find that all of the transitional flows have very similar chemical and rock magnetic properties. Furthermore, these flows differ significantly from the overlying reverse flows, which give distinctly different values and much greater flow-to-flow variation. From this we conclude that the packet of transitional flows was derived from the same source and had erupted over a relatively short period of time, as reflected by a magma source that presumably did not have time to evolve significantly. While the VGP cluster in the Gomera record is consistent with long-term mantle control on transitional fields, we cannot conclude that the cluster represents a standstill of the field. These results highlight the difficulties of interpreting temporal changes in field behaviour from volcanic sequences. In addition, they provide a clear incentive for investigating physical characteristics of lavas to assess relative eruptive rates.

The objectives of this work were to estimate the ABB (Aerial Bud Bank) size in small individuals of four native woody species and its relationship with structural changes of plants after disturbances. Study area was located in dry forests from Western Chaco region, Argentina. Three tree species: Aspidosperma quebracho-blanco (Apocynaceae), Schinopsis lorentzii (Anacardiaceae), Sarcomphalus mistol (Rhamnaceae) and a shrubby species, Schinus fasciculatus (Anacardiaceae) were selected for this study. Twenty (20) juvenile individuals (below 6 cm diameter) were randomly sampled from each species and plant height (m), diameter (cm) and plant cover (%) were recorded. ABB was estimated by counting of all growth modules (shoots/branches and thorns) identified in a 1 m length segment of main stem. Results of an ANOVA (Analysis of Variance) showed significant effects of species (p < 0.0001), number of shoots/branches (p < 0.05) and number of thorns (p < 0.05) on ABB. Schinopsis lorentzii and S. fasciculatus were categorized as high ABB species, S. mistol and A. quebracho-blanco as medium and low ABB species, respectively. ABB size diminished in all species studied when plant height (p = 0.0006) and plant cover (p < 0.0001) increased which could be related to most allocation of resources towards height growth and elongation of growth modules rather than to the differentiation of new shoots. A correspondence analysis of ABB size, growth habit, number of sprouts/resprouts, presence of thorns in studied species growing in forests with different disturbances history, showed that perturbations increased number of resprouts, shrubby growth habit but spinescence was only trait with significant association with disturbed areas. These results enhance the knowledge of resprouting pattern after disturbances of native woody species and open new research lines for futures studies.

An important metric for many aspects of species conservation planning and risk assessment is an estimate of total population size. For landbirds breeding in North America, Partners in Flight (PIF) generates global, continental, and regional population size estimates. These estimates are an important component of the PIF species assessment process, but have also been used by others for a range of applications. The PIF population size estimates are primarily calculated using a formula designed to extrapolate bird counts recorded by the North American Breeding Bird Survey (BBS) to regional population estimates. The extrapolation formula includes multiple assumptions and sources of uncertainty, but there were previously no attempts to quantify this uncertainty in the published population size estimates aside from a categorical data quality score. Using a Monte Carlo approach, we propagated the main sources of uncertainty arising from individual components of the model through to the final estimation of landbird population sizes. This approach results in distributions of population size estimates rather than point estimates. We found the width of uncertainty of population size estimates to be generally narrower than the order-of-magnitude distances between the population size score categories PIF uses in the species assessment process, suggesting confidence in the categorical ranking used by PIF. Our approach provides a means to identify species whose uncertainty bounds span more than one categorical rank, which was not previously possible with the data quality scores. Although there is still room for additional improvements to the estimation of avian population sizes and uncertainty, particularly with respect to replacing categorical model components with empirical estimates, our estimates of population size distributions have broader utility to a range of conservation planning and risk assessment activities relying on avian population size estimates.

The annual cycle of sedimentation in the northern Adriatic Sea is described from data collected over 1 year with multisample sediment traps. Settling matter was collected from 2 depths (25 and 35 m) in a 37 m water column at 15-30 day intervals. Considerable differences in the quantities collected were noted. Resuspended sediment and primary settling matter (phytoplankton cells, detritus) originating from the pelagic system were the main contributors to the particulate flux measured by the traps. High fluxes from November to April were associated primarily with resuspended sediment. Peaks in sedimentation of primary material were observed in spring and summer. From May to August fluxes were low, correlated with large 'marine snow' aggregates which were retained in suspension at the pycnocline for a long time. Organic substances produced in situ as well as those retained by the pycnocline settled in short time intervals presumably in relation to storms which disturbed the pycnocline. The largest portion of the flux was provided by material in the 63 ~tm-l.0 mm fraction. The puzzling lack of intact zooplankton fecal pellets in trapped material could be explained as rapid remineralization and recycling in the water column associated with bacterial activity, or pellets were a result of physical breakage and disintegration by feeding activities of crustacean zooplankton. Alternatively there could have been extremely low zooplankton grazing correlated with large amounts of organic mucus retained in the water colurnm.

Disequilibrium between 234 Th and 238 U in water column profiles has been used to estimate the settling flux of Th (and, by proxy, of particulate organic carbon); yet potentially major non-steady-state influences on 234 Th profiles are often not able to be considered in estimations of flux. We have compared temporal series of 234 Th distributions in the upper water column at both coastal and deep-water sites in the northwestern Mediterranean Sea to coeval sediment trap records at the same sites. We have used sediment trap records of 234 Th fluxes to predict temporal changes in water column 234 Th deficits and have compared the predicted deficits to those measured to determine whether the time-evolution of the two coincide. At the coastal site (327 m water depth), trends in the two estimates of water column 234 Th deficits are in fairly close agreement over the 1-month deployment during the spring bloom in 1999. In contrast, the pattern of water column 234 Th deficits is poorly predicted by sediment trap records at the deep-water site (DYFAMED, $2300 m water depth) in both 2003 and 2005. In particular, the transition from a mesotrophic to an oligotrophic system, clearly seen in trap fluxes, is not evident in water column 234 Th profiles, which show high-frequency variability. Allowing trapping efficiencies to vary from 100% does not reconcile the differences between trap and water column deficit observations; we conclude that substantial lateral and vertical advective influences must be invoked to account for the differences. Advective influences are potentially greater on 234 Th fluxes derived from water column deficits relative to those obtained from traps because the calculation of deficits in open-ocean settings is dominated by the magnitude of the ''dissolved'' 234 Th fraction. For observed current velocities of 5-20 cm s À1 , in one radioactive mean-life of 234 Th, the water column at the DYFAMED site can reflect 234 Th scavenging produced tens to hundreds of kilometers away. In contrast, most of the 234 Th flux collected in shallow sediment traps at the DFYFAMED site was in the fraction settling 4200 m d À1 ; in effect the sediment trap can integrate the 234 Th flux over distances $40-fold less than water column 234 Th distributions. In some sense, sediment trap and water column sampling for 234 Th provide complementary pictures of 234 Th export. However, because the two methods can be dominated by different processes and are subject to different biases, their comparison must be treated with caution.

Although a number of combinatorial/high-throughput approaches have been developed for biomaterial hydrogel optimization, a gradient sample approach is particularly well suited to identify hydrogel property thresholds that alter cellular behavior in response to interacting with the hydrogel due to reduced variation in material preparation and the ability to screen biological response over a range instead of discrete samples each containing only one condition. This review highlights recent work on cell-hydrogel interactions using a gradient material sample approach. Fabrication strategies for composition, material and mechanical property, and bioactive signaling gradient hydrogels that can be used to examine cell-hydrogel interactions will be discussed. The effects of gradients in hydrogel samples on cellular adhesion, migration, proliferation, and differentiation will then be examined, providing an assessment of the current state of the field and the potential of wider use of the gra...

Pre-seismic electron density anomalies have been a widely discussed phenomena in ionospheric studies. However, it is not well-known what causes these anomalies and what is the possible source mechanisms. These are still having not been elucidated questions and more investigations are needed to make clear that phenomena. The another question is how to distinguish ionospheric anomalies from other disturbances such as geomagnetic storms. In many cases, simultaneous geomagnetic activities make it difficult to detect an earthquake precursor effect in the ionosphere. Therefore, a characterization and classification of magnetic storm and earthquake signatures is necessary to make reliable forecasting. For this purpose, in this study, we investigated the similar and differing effects of magnetic storms and earthquakes on the ionospheric composition. Int this study, the time period after magnetic storms and before earthquakes were mainly investigated. The selection of earthquakes was carried...

There is a lack of published research on the economic effect and the risk associated with sand and dust storms (SDS) worldwide. The objectives of this study are to estimate the economic impact of SDS on the oil and gas industry in Kuwait, to estimate a risk index for each loss, and to recommend a sustainable system for the mitigation of the damaging effects and economic losses of infrastructures. Hot spots of wind erosion, wind corridors, and dust frequency and severity formed the basis to locate the most susceptible oil and gas fields and operations. Ten sectors with potential loss vulnerabilities were evaluated: exploration, drilling, production, gas, marine, soil remediation, project management, water handling, maintenance, and research and development. Sand encroachment, although not a sector per se, was also considered. The results indicate that sand, and to lesser extent dust, are damaging and costly to the oil and gas infrastructure of Kuwait, with an economic cost estimation...

In the transition area between the North Sea and the Baltic Sea entrainment processes dominate the vertical mixing in the inflowing saline bottom water. The hot spots of these processes are located at the Darss Sill and the Bornholm Channel in the western Baltic Sea. In the central Baltic Sea the horizontal advection of saline water in deep layers below the permanent halocline dominate the temporal changes and associated transports. This is accompanied by the turbulent vertical transport through the halocline into the surface layers. The related vertical salt transport into the entire surface mixed layer estimated by various methods is slightly above 30 kg/(m 2 a). During stagnation periods, the residence time of the deep water in the Eastern Gotland Basin increases roughly by a factor of five. Vertical mixing through the halocline is drastically reduced when inflows are lacking, the potential processes of diapycnal mixing are discussed to the present knowledge. The turbulent motion resulting from breaking internal waves is capable of turbulent transports through the halocline corresponding to the estimates of the salt transport into the surface mixed layer. The actual knowledge about boundary mixing due to internal waves in the Baltic Sea is poor. Mesoscale eddies may contribute to the vertical mixing, but it is not known whether they really do and which of the possible direct and indirect mixing mechanisms is most effective. Nearbottom currents induced by inflow events likely enhance vertical mixing. Coastal upwelling certainly contributes to the vertical transport, but the depth of its origin and the volume transport are hard to determine for large-scale quantifications. The short spatiotemporal scale of turbulent transports through the halocline resulting in a weakening of the halocline during summer together with the mixing of the entire surface layer down to the halocline in winter form a consistent description of the vertical salt transport. It is hypothesised that the longer residence time of the deep water during stagnation periods results from the lack of energy imported by the inflows and directly or indirectly feeding the diapycnal mixing processes. The vertical transport of nutrients such as the phosphate is quantitatively not sufficiently understood and needs further interdisciplinary research activities.

This paper presents the first vertical total electron content (VTEC) data derived from a dual-frequency GPS receiver installed at the Asian Institute of Technology in Bangkok, as part of project SCINDA (Scintillation Network and Decision Aid). with a magnetic dip latitude of 14°N, The diurnal, monthly, and seasonal variation in TEC, measured between August 2010 and July 2012, was compared with values derived from two International Reference Ionosphere (IRI) models: the IRI-2007 and the recently released IRI-2012. The highest diurnal TEC always occurred between 08:00 and 12:00 Universal Time (UT). The diurnal pattern of GPS-TEC reached its maximum values during equinoctial months (March, April, September, and October) and minimum values during solstice months (June, July, December, and January), which can be attributed to the solar extreme ultra-violet ionization coupled with the upward vertical ExB drift. The modeled TEC was underestimated in 2010 and 2011 and overestimated in 2012, especially with the IRI-2007 model. The measured values were better correlated with the IRI-2012 model, especially in 2012. However, neither of the IRI models responded to geomagnetic activity, despite the selection of the "storm" option, generally showing a smooth curve and underestimating TEC during a storm. To verify this phenomenon, the impacts of geomagnetic storms were considered.

We use ERS‐2 and ENVISAT satellite radar altimetry to examine spatial and temporal changes in the rate of thinning of the Pine Island Glacier, West Antarctica, during the period 1995 to 2006. We show that the pattern of thinning has both accelerated and spread inland to encompass tributaries flowing into the central trunk of the glacier. Within the 5,400 km2 central trunk, the average rate of volume loss quadrupled from 2.6 ± 0.3 km3 yr−1 in 1995 to 10.1 ± 0.3 km3 yr−1 in 2006. The region of lightly grounded ice at the glacier terminus is extending upstream, and the changes inland are consistent with the effects of a prolonged disturbance to the ice flow, such as the effects of ocean‐driven melting. If the acceleration continues at its present rate, the main trunk of PIG will be afloat within some 100 years, six times sooner than anticipated.

Post-eruptive crustal activity after the 2000 eruption of Usu volcano was investigated by seismic and geodetic field observations. Remarkable features of the magmatic eruptions that occur almost every 30 years include lava dome formation and strong precursory earthquakes. On the other hand, rapid dome subsidence was observed by electronic distance meter (EDM) measurement after the 1977-1982 summit eruption. Since the 2000 eruption, seismic activity at a shallow part under the summit crater has remained at a high level relative to that after the 1977-1982 eruption, although eruption occurred at the western foot of the volcano during the 2000 eruption. To reveal the shallow crustal activity in the inter-eruptive period around the summit area, seismicity and crustal deformation have been investigated since 2006. Dense temporary seismic observations and hypocenter relocation analysis using a three-dimensional velocity structure model revealed that the focal area is localized along the U-shaped fault that developed in the dome-forming stage of the 1977-1982 eruption. Three major focal clusters are distributed on the southwestern side of Usu-Shinzan cryptodome, which was built up during the 1977-1982 eruption. For the seven major events with magnitudes larger than 1, the focal mechanism was a large dip-slip component, which suggests the subsidence of Usu-Shinzan cryptodome. Interferomatetric satellite aperture radar (InSAR) image analysis and repeated GPS measurements revealed subsidence of the summit dome, which is almost centered at the Usu-Shinzan cryptodome. The area of rapid deformation is restricted to a small area around the summit crater. The estimated rate of dome subsidence relative to the crater floor is about 3 cm/year. These results strongly suggest that subsidence of Usu-Shinzan is associated with the small earthquakes along the U-shaped fault that surrounds the cryptodome. According to prior seismic and geodetic studies, it is thought that most of the magma rising under the summit crater during the 2000 eruption stopped around a depth of 2 km below sea level, which is sufficiently deep relative to the focal area of the present seismicity. A part of magma intruded under the western foot and contributed to the 2000 eruption. We conclude that the 2000 eruption scarcely affected the shallow crustal activity under the summit crater, and that Usu-Shinzan cryptodome is continuing to subside just as it was before the 2000 eruption. The shallow volcanic earthquakes that began increasing from 1995 are closely related to the successive subsidence of the summit domes. Temporal change in fumarole temperature suggests a relationship between the shallow earthquakes and cooling of the magma that intruded under Usu-Shinzan during the 1977-1982 eruption.