An approach to estimate tree height using PolInSAR data constructed by the Sentinel-1 dual-pol SAR data and RVoG model

We estimate tree heights using polarimetric interferometric synthetic aperture radar(PolInSAR)data constructed by the dual-polarization(dual-pol)SAR data and random volume over the ground(RVoG)model.Considering the Sentinel-1 SAR dual-pol(SVV,vertically transmitted and vertically received and SVH,vertically transmitted and horizontally received)configuration,one notes that S_(HH),the horizontally transmitted and horizontally received scattering element,is unavailable.The S_(HH)data were constructed using the SVH data,and polarimetric SAR(PolSAR)data were obtained.The proposed approach was first verified in simulation with satisfactory results.It was next applied to construct PolInSAR data by a pair of dual-pol Sentinel-1A data at Duke Forest,North Carolina,USA.According to local observations and forest descriptions,the range of estimated tree heights was overall reasonable.Comparing the heights with the ICESat-2 tree heights at 23 sampling locations,relative errors of 5 points were within±30%.Errors of 8 points ranged from 30%to 40%,but errors of the remaining 10 points were>40%.The results should be encouraged as error reduction is possible.For instance,the construction of PolSAR data should not be limited to using SVH,and a combination of SVH and SVV should be explored.Also,an ensemble of tree heights derived from multiple PolInSAR data can be considered since tree heights do not vary much with time frame in months or one season.

Prediction of high-speed train induced ground vibration based on train-track-ground system model

The development of analysis on train-induced ground vibration is briefly summarized. A train-track- ground integrated dynamic model is introduced in the paper to predict the ground vibration induced by high-speed trains. Representative dynamic responses of the train-track-ground system predicted by the model are presented. Some major results measured from two field tests on the ground vibration induced by two high-speed trains are reported. Numerical prediction with the proposed train-track-ground model is validated by the high-speed train running experiments. Research results show that the wheel/rail dynamic interaction caused by track irregularities has a significant influence on the ground acceleration and little influence on the ground displacement. The main frequencies of the ground vibration induced by high-speed trains are usually below 80 Hz. Compared with the ballasted track, the ballastless track structure can produce much larger train-induced ground vibration at frequencies above 40 Hz. The vertical ground vibration is much larger than the lateral and longitudinal components.

A New model to forecast fishing ground of Scomber japonicus in the Yellow Sea and East China Sea

The pelagic species is closely related to the marine environmental factors, and establishment of forecasting model of fishing ground with high accuracy is an important content for pelagic fishery. The chub mackerel（Scomber japonicus） in the Yellow Sea and East China Sea is an important fishing target for Chinese lighting purse seine fishery. Based on the fishery data from China＇s mainland large-type lighting purse seine fishery for chub mackerel during the period of 2003 to 2010 and the environmental data including sea surface temperature（SST）, gradient of the sea surface temperature（GSST）, sea surface height（SSH） and geostrophic velocity（GV）, we attempt to establish one new forecasting model of fishing ground based on boosted regression trees. In this study, the fishing areas with fishing effort is considered as one fishing ground, and the areas with no fishing ground are randomly selected from a background field, in which the fishing areas have no records in the logbooks. The performance of the forecasting model of fishing ground is evaluated with the testing data from the actual fishing data in 2011. The results show that the forecasting model of fishing ground has a high prediction performance, and the area under receiver operating curve（AUC） attains 0.897. The predicted fishing grounds are coincided with the actual fishing locations in 2011, and the movement route is also the same as the shift of fishing vessels, which indicates that this forecasting model based on the boosted regression trees can be used to effectively forecast the fishing ground of chub mackerel in the Yellow Sea and East China Sea.

Vertical coherency function model of spatial ground motion

Many studies have focused on horizontal ground motion, resulting in many coherency functions for horizontal ground motion while neglecting related problems arising from vertical ground motion. However, seismic events have demonstrated that the vertical components of ground motion sometimes govern the ultimate failure of structures. In this paper, a vertical coherency function model of spatial ground motion is proposed based on the Hao model and SMART 1 array records, and the validity of the model is demonstrated. The vertical coherency function model of spatial ground motion is also compared with the horizontal coherency function model, indicating that neither model exhibits isotropic characteristics. The value of the vertical coherency function has little correlation with that of the horizontal coherency function. However, the coherence of the vertical ground motion between a pair of stations decreases with their projection distance and the frequency of the ground motion. When the projection distance in the wave direction is greater than 800 meters, the coherency between the two points can be neglected.

Underground ground control monitoring and interpretation,and numerical modeling, and shield capacity design

Mine or longwall panel layout is a 3D structure with highly non-uniform stress distribution. Recognition of such fact will facilitate underground problem identification/investigation and solving by numerical modeling through proper model construction. Due to its versatility, numerical modeling is the most popular method for ground control design and problem solving. However numerical modeling results require highly experienced professionals to interpret its validity/applicability to actual mining operations due to complicated mining and geological conditions. Underground ground control monitoring is routinely performed to predict roof behavior such as weighting and weighting interval without matching observation of face mining condition while the mining pressures are being monitored, resulting in unrealistic interpretation of the obtained data on mining pressure. The importance of ground control pressure monitoring and simultaneous observation of mining and geological conditions is illustrated by an example of shield leg pressure monitoring and interpretation in an U.S. longwall coal mine: it was found that the roof strata act like a plate, not an individual block of the size of a shield dimension, as commonly assumed by all researchers and shield capacity is not a fixed property for a longwall panel or a mine or a coal seam. A new mechanism on the interaction between shield's hydraulic leg pressure and roof strata for shield loading is proposed.

Sorption Kinetics, Isotherm and Thermodynamic Modeling of Defluoridation of Ground Water Using Natural Adsorbents

The aim of study is to investigate the removal ability of some natural adsorbents for fluoride ion from aqueous solution. The batch dynamic adsorption method was carried out at neutral pH as the functions of contact time, adsorbent dose, adsorbate concentration, temperature and effect of co-anions, which are commonly present in water. The sorption kinetics and equilibrium adsorption isotherms of fluoride on natural adsorbing materials had been investigated at afore-mentioned optimized. Equilibrium adsorption isotherms, viz., Freundlich and Langmuir isotherms were investigated. Lagergren and Morris-Weber kinetic equations were employed to find the rate constants. The negative enthalpy ΔH = -46.54 KJ·mol-1 and Gibbs free energy calculated was ΔG288-333—(2.07785, 3.08966, 4.1064, 4.90716 and 5.38036 KJ·mol-1) respectively, envisage exothermic and spontaneous nature of sorption.

Multi-constrained model predictive control for autonomous ground vehicle trajectory tracking

A multi-constrained model predictive control （ MPC ） algorithm for trajectory tracking of an autonomous ground vehicle is proposed and tested in this paper. First, to simplify the computa- tion, an active steering linear error model is applied in the MPC controller. Then, a control incre- ment constraint and a relaxing factor are taken into account in the objective function to ensure the smoothness of the trajectory, using a softening constraints technique. In addition, the controller can obtain optimal control sequences which satisfy both the actual kinematic constraints and the actuator constraints. The circular trajectory tracking performance of the proposed method is compared with that of another MPC controller. To verify the trajectory tracking capabilities of the designed control- ler at different desired speed, the simulation experiments are carried out at the speed of 3m/s, 5m/ s and 10m/s. The results demonstrate the MPC controller has a good speed adaptability.

Lg-Q model and its implication on high-frequency ground motion for earthquakes in the Sichuan and Yunnan region

Low-rise buildings are susceptible to high-frequency ground motion.The high-frequency ground motions at regional distances are mainly controlled by crustal Lg waves whose amplitudes are typically much larger than those of body waves.In this study,we develop a Lg-wave Q model for the Sichuan and Yunnan region in the frequency band of 0.3–2.0 Hz using regional seismic records of 1166 earthquakes recorded at 152 stations.Comparison between the observed pattern of ground motion from real earthquake and model prediction demonstrates the robustness and effectiveness of our Lg-Q model.Then,assuming that the Lg-wave Q structure is the main factor affecting the propagation of the high-frequency ground motions,we calculate the spatial distributions of high-frequency ground motions from scenario earthquakes at different locations in the region using the average Lg-wave attenuation model over the frequency band of 0.3–2.0 Hz.We also use the Lg-Q model to estimate the distribution of cumulative energy of high-frequency ground motions based on the historical seismicity of the Sichuan and Yunnan region.Results show that the Lg-Q model can be used effectively in estimating the spatial distribution of high-frequency seismic energies and thus can contribute to the assessment of seismic hazard to low-rise buildings.

Seismic ground motion relationships in southern China based on stochastic finite-fault model

The characteristics of seismic ground motions in southern China are difficult to determine statistically due to a lack of strong ground motion data.In this study,a stochastic finite-fault ground motion model was adopted to simulate the seismic ground motions at bedrock for southern China,based on parameters derived from small and medium earthquakes that have occurred in the region.From these,the response spectra was estimated.A set of ground motion attenuation relationships was then developed based on simulated peak ground motions and response spectral parameters through regression,which would be applicable for use in engineering practice.Through comparisons,it was demonstrated that the proposed ground motion relationships are generally consistent with those obtained from other reported ground motion attenuation models for southern China.

A stochastic model of the Fourier phase of strong ground motion

The notion of equivalent dispersion of strong seismic waves is further illuminated and a frequency-dependentstochastic model of the Fourier phase of strong earthquake ground motion is presented for use in statistical estimates of the Fourier phase. The non-stationary features of design ground motions synthesized using the phasemodel in combination with the empirical attenuation model of amplitude spectra of strong ground motion are ableto be consistent with those of observed records in the sense of statistics.

Remote Sensing, Model-Derived and Ground Measurements of Snow Water Equivalent and Snow Density in Alaska

Snow water equivalent (SWE) is important for investigations of annual to decadal-scale changes in Arctic environment and energy-water cycles. Passive microwave satellite-based retrieval algorithm estimates of SWE now span more than three decades. SWE retrievals by the Advanced Microwave Scanning Radiometer for the Earth Observation System (AMSR-E) onboard the NASA-Aqua satellite ended at October 2011. A critical parameter in the AMSR-E retrieval algorithm is snow density assumed from surveys in Canada and Russia from 1940s-1990s. We compare ground SWE measurements in Alaska to those of AMSR-E, European Space Agency GlobSnow, and GIPL model. AMSR-E SWE underperforms (is less than on average) ground SWE measurements in Alaska through 2011. Snow density measurements along the Alaska permafrost transect in April 2009 and 2010 show a significant latitude-gradient in snow density increasing to the Arctic coast at Prudhoe Bay. Large differences are apparent in comparisons of our measured mean snow densities on a same snow cover class basis March-April 2009-2011 Alaska to those measured in Alaska winter 1989-1992 and Canadian March-April 1961-1990. Snow density like other properties of snow is an indicator of climate and a non-stationary variable of SWE.

Modeling Tensile Strength of Concrete on Partial Replacement of Ce­ment and Sand with Quarry Dust Ground Granulated Blast Furnace and Slag Silica Fumes

Tensile strength of concrete were examined on its partial replacement of cement and sand using ground granulated blast furnace and quarry dust.The study examines its behaviour at different dimensions.This is to monitor the variation effect of these parameters on the growth rates of tensile to the optimum curing age.These include non linear conditions of tensile state,non-elastic and its brittle behaviour at all times as it express zero conditions in tension.This means that it has the ability to with stand pull force.It also reflects its weak ability to handle shear stress thus tends to cause deformation in material as it has poor elasticity.The reflection of its brittle influence the rate of tensile behaviour from concrete ductility.These are known to be a material on modern mechanics of concrete.These are also considered as quasi brittle material.This behaviour was reflected as the system considered evaluating the growth rate of tensile strength that replaced cement and sand with these locally sourced addictives.The developed model monitor other reflected influential parameters such as variation of concrete porosity due it compaction in placements,tensile behaviour reflects these effect that subject it to mechanical properties of concrete.The study expressed the reaction of these parameters in the simulation,the evaluation of these affected the details variation of tensile growth rate at different water cement ratios and curing age.The tensile behaviour that was monitored are based on these factors in the study.The derived model were validated with the a researcher results[24],and both parameters developed best fits correlation.The study is imperative because the system expressed the behaviour of tensile strength from concrete at different dimensions.Experts can applied these concept to monitor tensile behaviour considering these parameters in its growth rates.

Channel Modeling for Air-to-Ground Wireless Communication

In this paper, we discuss several large-scale fading models for different enviromnents. The COST231-Hata model is adapted for air-to-ground modeling. We propose two criteria for air-to- ground channel modelling based on test data derived from field testing in Beijing. We develop a new propagation model that is more suitable for air-to-ground communication that previous models. We focus on improving this propagation model using the field test data.

3-D physical model in strong ground motion numerical simulation:A case study of Kunming basin

Seismic hazard assessment based on urban active faults can provide scientific bases for city planning and project construction, while numerical simulation of strong ground motion is an important method for seismic hazard prediction and assessment. A 3-D physical model in conformity with real strata configuration of （mainly） the Quaternary is a prerequisite to ensure the reliability of the simulation results. In this paper, we give a detailed account of the technical scheme and process for creating a 3-D physical model in Kunming basin. The data used are synthe- sized from seismogeological data, borehole data, topographic data, digital elevation mode （DEM） data, seismic exploration results and wave velocity measurements. Strafigraphic division is based mainly on shear wave velocity, with strata sequence taken into consideration. The model construction is finally accomplished with ArcGIS and many relevant programming techniques via layer-by-layer stacking （in depth direction） of the adjacent medium interfaces （meshes）. Meanwhile, a database of 3-D physical models is set up, which provides model data and parameters for strong ground motion simulation. Some processing methods and significant issues are also addressed in the paper in accordance with different types of exploration and experimental data.

Prediction of Ground Water Level in Arid Environment Using a Non-Deterministic Model

Modeling and forecasting of the groundwater water table are a major component of effective planning and management of water resources. One way to predict the groundwater level is analysis using a non-deterministic model. This study assessed the performance of such models in predicting the groundwater level at Kashan aquifer. Data from 36 piezometer wells in Kashan aquifer for 1999 to 2010 were used. The desired statistical interval was divided into two parts and statistics for 1990 to 2004 were used for modeling and statistics from 2005 to 2010 were used for valediction of the model. The Akaike criterion and correlation coefficients were used to determine the accuracy of the prediction models. The results indicated that the AR(2) model more accurately predicted ground water level in the plains;using this model, the groundwater water table was predicted for up to 60 mo.

No Degeneracy of the Ground State for the Impact Parameter Model

A time dependent Hamiltonian associated to the impact parameter model for the scattering of a light particle and two heavy ones is considered. Existence and non degeneracy of the ground state is shown.

Model-based estimation of above-ground biomass in the miombo ecoregion of Zambia

Background：Information on above-ground biomass（AGB） is important for managing forest resource use at local levels,land management planning at regional levels,and carbon emissions reporting at national and international levels.In many tropical developing countries,this information may be unreliable or at a scale too coarse for use at local levels.There is a vital need to provide estimates of AGB with quantifiable uncertainty that can facilitate land use management and policy development improvements.Model-based methods provide an efficient framework to estimate AGB.Methods：Using National Forest Inventory（NFI） data for a^1,000,000 ha study area in the miombo ecoregion,Zambia,we estimated AGB using predicted canopy cover,environmental data,disturbance data,and Landsat 8 OLI satellite imagery.We assessed different combinations of these datasets using three models,a semiparametric generalized additive model（GAM） and two nonlinear models（sigmoidal and exponential）,employing a genetic algorithm for variable selection that minimized root mean square prediction error（RMSPE）,calculated through cross-validation.We compared model fit statistics to a null model as a baseline estimation method.Using bootstrap resampling methods,we calculated 95% confidence intervals for each model and compared results to a simple estimate of mean AGB from the NFI ground plot data.Results：Canopy cover,soil moisture,and vegetation indices were consistently selected as predictor variables.The sigmoidal model and the GAM performed similarly;for both models the RMSPE was -36.8 tonnes per hectare（i.e.,57% of the mean）.However,the sigmoidal model was approximately 30% more efficient than the GAM,assessed using bootstrapped variance estimates relative to a null model.After selecting the sigmoidal model,we estimated total AGB for the study area at 64,526,209 tonnes（＋/- 477,730）,with a confidence interval 20 times more precise than a simple designbased estimate.Conclusions：Our findings demonstrate that NFI data may be combined with freely available satellite imagery and soils data to estimate total AGB with quantifiable uncertainty,while also providing spatially explicit AGB maps useful for management,planning,and reporting purposes.

Kinematic source model for simulation of near-fault ground motion field using explicit finite element method

This paper briefly reviews the characteristics and major processes of the explicit finite element method in modeling the near-fault ground motion field. The emphasis is on the finite element-related problems in the finite fault source modeling. A modified kinematic source model is presented, in which vibration with some high frequency components is introduced into the traditional slip time function to ensure that the source and ground motion include sufficient high frequency components. The model presented is verified through a simple modeling example. It is shown that the predicted near-fault ground motion field exhibits similar characteristics to those observed in strong motion records, such as the hanging wall effect, vertical effect, fling step effect and velocity pulse effect, etc.