Using Ancillary Information to Improve Hypocenter Estimation: Bayesian Single Event Location (BSEL)

We have developed and tested an algorithm, Bayesian Single Event Location (BSEL), for estimating the location of a seismic event. The main driver for our research is the inadequate representation of ancillary information in the hypocenter estimation procedure. The added benefit is that we have also addressed instability issues often encountered with historical NLR solvers (e.g., non-convergence or seismically infeasible results). BSEL differs from established nonlinear regression techniques by using a Bayesian prior probability density function (prior PDF) to incorporate ancillary physical basis constraints about event location. P-wave arrival times from seismic events are used in the development. Depth, a focus of this paper, may be modeled with a prior PDF (potentially skewed) that captures physical basis bounds from surface wave observations. This PDF is constructed from a Rayleigh wave depth excitation eigenfunction that is based on the observed minimum period from a spectrogram analysis and estimated near-source elastic parameters. For example, if the surface wave is an Rg phase, it potentially provides a strong constraint for depth, which has important implications for remote monitoring of nuclear explosions. The proposed Bayesian algorithm is illustrated with events that demonstrate its congruity with established hypocenter estimation methods and its application potential. The BSEL method is applied to three events: 1) A shallow Mw 4 earthquake that occurred near Bardwell, KY on June 6, 2003, 2) the Mw 5.6 earthquake of July 26, 2005 that occurred near Dillon, MT, and 3) a deep Mw 5.7 earthquake that occurred off the coast of Japan on April 22, 1980. A strong Rg was observed from the Bardwell, KY earthquake that places very strong constraints on depth and origin time. No Rg was observed for the Dillon, MT earthquake, but we used the minimum observed period of a Rayleigh wave (7 seconds) to reduce the depth and origin time uncertainty. Because the Japan event was deep, there is no observed surface wave energy. We utilize the prior generated from the Dillon, MT event to show that even in the case when a prior is inappropriately applied, high quality data will overcome its influence and result in a reasonable hypocenter estimate.     

Investigation of the Relationship between Sediment Graph and Hydrograph of Flood Events (Case Study: Gharachay River Tributaries,Arak, Iran)

Water Resources - In the comprehensive management of watersheds, the knowledge of the sedimentation process in flood conditions is considered as an important and challenging issue. The aim of this...     

First Order Seismic Microzonation of Haldia, Bengal Basin (India) Using a GIS Platform

The seismic microzonation of the Bengal Basin, Haldia region, India is carried out using the Analytical Hierarchy Process (AHP) on the Geographic Information System (GIS). Three themes are used for the seismic microzonation, namely Peak Ground Acceleration (PGA), predominant frequency and elevation map. An analysis of the maximum magnitude (m _max) and the b value is carried out after preparing the earthquake catalogue from various sources. On the basis of the tectonic set up and seismicity of the region, five seismic zones are delineated which can be a threat to Haldia. They are broadly classified as Zone 1: Arakan-Yoma Zone (AYZ), Zone 2: Himalayan Zone (HZ), Zone 3: Shillong Plateau Zone (SPZ), Zone 4: Bay of Bengal Zone (BBZ) and Zone 5: Shield Zone (SZ). The m _max for Zones 1, 2, 3, 4 and 5 are 8.30 ± 0.51, 9.09 ± 0.58, 9.20 ± 0.51, 6.62 ± 0.43 and 6.61 ± 0.43, respectively. The PGA value is computed for Haldia following the attenuation relationship taking the m _max of each source zone. The expected PGA at Haldia varies from 0.09–0.19 g. The predominant frequency of Haldia is also calculated using the H/V ratio with a frequency ranging from 0.1–3.0 Hz. The elevation map of Haldia is also generated using the Shuttle Radar Topography Mission (STRM) data. A first-order seismic microzonation map of Haldia is prepared in which four zones of hazard have been broadly classified for Haldia as very high seismic hazard zone, high seismic hazard zone, moderate seismic hazard zone and less seismic hazard zone. The very high seismic hazard zone is observed along the southern part of Haldia where there are major industrial and port facilities. The PGA for the four hazard zones are: 0.09–0.13 g for low hazard zone, > 0.13–0.15 g for moderate hazard zone, > 0.15–0.16 g for high hazard zone and > 0.16–0.19 g for very high hazard zone.     

Biomonitoring of Ni and V Contamination Using Oysters (Saccostrea cucullata) at Lengeh Port,Persian Gulf,Iran

Vanadium and nickel are two important indicators of oil pollution. Lengthy exposure to these elements causes serious harmful effects in human health, different harsh allergies being examples. The accumulation of two heavy metals (Ni and V) in sediment and the soft and hard tissues of Saccostrea cucullata were analyzed at three sampling sites along the coast of Lengeh Port, Persian Gulf. Results indicated at all the sampling sites; the Ni levels in soft tissues (STs) were higher than in the shells (SHs) and sediments, whereas the V levels were higher in the sediments. In addition, meaningful relationship (r = 0.65; p < 0.05) was observed across Ni levels in ST of S. cucullata and sediment, while for V concentrations a strong relationship (r = 0.83; p < 0.01) was found in SH of S. cucullata and sediment. This indicates that ST and SH of oyster can be considered as a biomonitoring agent for Ni and V levels, in coastal waters, respectively. The exposure of the consumer is compared directly to minimal risk level and provisional maximum tolerable daily intake. Result indicated that levels of Ni and V were within the safety limits for human consumption.     

Hybrid stochastic finite fault modeling of 2003, M6.5, Bam earthquake (Iran)

Accelerographic time series of the M ^∗6.5 Bam (Iran) earthquake of December 26, 2003, are used to calibrate the source and propagation path characteristics based on a hybrid stochastic approach, which includes stochastic finite fault and analytical modeling. Estimation of source characteristics is based on the calibration of finite-fault modeling to near-source observed time series, while propagation characteristics are estimated using far-field recorded ones. The distance-dependent Kappa factor is obtained from the slope of smoothed amplitude of acceleration Fourier spectrum at higher frequencies. The estimated zero-distance Kappa value is 0.06. Calibration based on near-source time series indicates a stress drop of 130 bars for the Bam earthquake. The strong impulsive long-period motion, recorded at the only near-source station, is modeled using analytical modeling of Mavroeidis and Papageorgiou (2003).     

Using luminescence dating of coarse matrix material to estimate the slip rate of the Astaneh fault,Iran

In this paper, we present optically and infrared stimulated luminescence (OSL and IRSL) ages for four samples from alluvial fan surfaces in the Astaneh Valley. This valley is located in the north-east part of the Alborz range in Iran. Our morphologic interpretations recognize at least three generations of fans in the study area, all of which have been displaced along the left-lateral strike-slip Astaneh fault. Because of the dry, loose, and sometimes complex juxtaposition of the target sediments, we collected the samples in total darkness beneath dark plastic layers placed atop the pit openings. Luminescence ages of the fans are ～55 ka, ～32 ka and ～16 ka. These ages are concurrent with periods of loess deposition and wet climatic conditions previously recorded in the Arabia-Iranian region. They allow estimation of a horizontal slip rate of ～2 mm/yr along the Astaneh fault, which is consistent with additional slip rates determined for the Holocene period along faults further west of the Astaneh fault.     

Using a GIS filtering approach to replicate patterns of glacial erosion

In order to extend our knowledge of glacial relief production in mountainous areas new methods are required for landscape reconstructions on a temporal resolution of a glacial cycle and a spatial resolution that includes the most important terrain components. A generic data set and a 50 m resolution digital elevation model over a study area in northern Sweden and Norway (the present day landscape data set) were employed to portray spatial patterns of erosion by reconstructing the landscape over successive cycles of glacial erosion. A maximum‐value geographic information system (GIS) filtering technique using variable neighbourhoods was applied such that existing highpoints in the landscape were used as erosional anchor points for the reconstruction of past landscape topography. An inherent assumption, therefore, is that the highest surfaces have experienced insignificant down‐wearing over the Quaternary. Over multiple reconstruction cycles, proceeding backwards in time, the highest summits increase in area, valleys become shallower, and the valley pattern becomes increasingly simplified as large valleys become in‐filled from the sides. The sum of these changes reduces relief. The pattern of glacial erosion, which is to 60% correlated to slope angle and to 70% correlated to relative relief, is characterized by (i) an abrupt erosional boundary below preserved summit areas, (ii) enhanced erosion in narrow valleys, (iii) restricted erosion of smooth areas, independently of elevation, (iv) eradication of small‐scale irregularities, (v) restricted erosion on isolated hills in low‐relief terrain, and (vi) a valley widening independent of valley directions. The method outlined in this paper shows how basic GIS filtering techniques can mimic some of the observed patterns of glacial erosion and thereby help deduce the key controls on the processes that govern large‐scale landscape evolution beneath ice sheets. Copyright © 2010 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.     

Using Envisat InSAR time-series to investigate the surface kinematics of an active salt extrusion near Qum,Iran

Lower Oligocene-Miocene rock salt is exposed in several diapirs in the central plateau of Iran along the northern margin of the Great Kavir basin. These include a small but mature salt extrusion known as Qum Kuh located near the city of Qum. We use small-baseline interferograms to study the surface displacements of Qum Kuh. The interferometric dataset consisted of 149 interferometric displacement maps derived from 35 C-band ASAR images collected by Envisat satellite in both descending and ascending orbits from 2003 through 2009.The results of the displacement time series analyses show significant long-term trend of horizontal motion toward gentle slopes of Qum Kuh, punctuated by seasonal variations during dry and wet seasons. Interferometric Synthetic Aperture Radar (InSAR) time series results suggest that the salt near the spreading center, where the salt first surfaces from depth, is extruded to the more gentle flanks of Qum Kuh and that down-slope gravitational spreading of the extruded salt accelerates when it is wet.     

Geochemistry of calc-alkaline volcanic rocks from southeastern Iran (kouh-e-shahsavaran)

The Upper Tertiary to Quaternary volcanic complex of Kouh-e-Shahsavaran in southeastern Iran is composed of calc-alkaline rocks of island are type (high-alumina basalts, basic andesites, andesites and dacites) even though it was emplaced on the continental basement. The volcanic rocks of the complex are genetically related and were probably derived by low-pressure fractional crystallization of high-Al basalts. The anomalously high content of Sr in some rocks probably reflects an accumulation of plagioclase. The trace element data are consistent with the origin of the parental magma by partial melting of an “enriched” upper mantle peridotite.     

GIS-Based Groundwater Potential Mapping in Khorramabad in Lorestan,Iran, using Frequency Ratio (FR) and Weights of Evidence (WoE) Models

Water Resources - In this study groundwater potential map of Khorramabad in Lorestan Province, Iran was produced using two different methods; Frequency Ratio (FR) and Weights of Evidence (WoE)...     

Reproductive traits of the freshwater shrimp Caridina fossarum Heller, 1862 (Decapoda, Caridea, Atyidae) in the Ghomp-Atashkedeh spring (Iran)

In the present study, some biological traits of Caridina fossarum reproduction are studied in the Ghomp-Atashkedeh spring (Fasa, Shiraz, Iran), for the first time. This Iranian endemic freshwater species was studied from April 2007 to March 2008. Minimum sexable size (MSS) and absolute or relative size at the onset of maturity (SOM and RSOM) in terms of carapace length (CL) was found to be 2.4 mm, 4.3 mm and 55%, respectively. Sex ratio showed variations on a monthly basis. Sex reversal is a possible scenario for C. fossarum because the size-specific sex ratio revealed a reverse pattern. Based on the proportions of ovigerous females, the main breeding season was determined to be from April to August, demonstrating a peak during early spring. There is a period of extended recruitment at water temperatures above 20 °C. The size at which 50% of females are mature was estimated at CL = 5.03 mm from the proportion of ovigerous females during the breeding season. The pleopodal egg number varied from 3 to 75 eggs per female with a mean value 34.39 ± 14.27. The results showed that although there is a significant relationship between carapace length CL and pleopodal egg number, it is not the most important factor affecting potential fecundity in C. fossarum due to the low values of slope (= 1.51) and determination coefficient (= 0.052).     

Hydrogeological Studies to Identify the Trend of Concealed Section of the North Tabriz Fault (Iran)

The North Tabriz Fault (NTF) is the predominant regional‐scale tectonic structure in the northwest of Iran. In the east side of the city of Tabriz, a portion of the fault trend has been completely concealed by recent sediments and urbanization. In this paper, some hydrogeological methods are used to locate the concealed sector. As is clear from the pumping tests results, despite the fact that the northern observation wells were closer to the pumping wells than the southern ones, they have not been affected by pumping. Conversely, all southern wells were affected by pumping and displayed decline of the water table. In addition, obvious differences in groundwater levels combined with clear differences in groundwater quality within a short distance across the probable fault trend are sufficient reasons for the presence of the fault that behaves as a barrier to groundwater lateral flows. Significant change in the elevation of the bedrock base of the aquifer over less than 200 m suggests that the fault has near vertical dip. These results indicate that the inferred trend of the NTF closely conforms to its actual trend. Therefore, the hydrogeological studies can be complementary tools to determine the position and trend of concealed faults.     

Using GIS for modelling the impact of current climate trend on the recharge area of the S. Susanna spring (central Apennines,Italy)

Though the S. Susanna spring system is one of the biggest water sources in the central Apennines, its hydrogeological dynamics have been scarcely investigated. This study tried to clarify some of the factors controlling the recharge/discharge processes of this spring by modelling the available climate series, water balance equations and new isotopic and quantitative data, using statistical and raster overlay functions embedded in a Geographic Information System (GIS). Oxygen and hydrogen isotopic data were recorded monthly over a 2‐year period at the spring itself and in eight rain gauges in Reatini Mountains. The effective infiltration rate was calculated using the Kennessey coefficients and the Turc equation. Finally, the recharge area was identified with the help of an expert evaluation procedure. Local δ¹⁸O and δD versus altitude regression curves were used to validate the digital recharge model by comparing their expected values with the values actually measured. Recharge process was framed within the perspective of the ongoing local climate trends. The current discharge rate of 4·1 m³·s^?1 is significantly lower than the average value of 5·5 m³·s^?1 measured up to the 1980s, confirming the fall in the recharge/discharge rate. The hydrogeological system shows a delayed response, due to an average groundwater residence time in the aquifer, which is estimated to be about 15/20 years on the basis of the offset between calculated and observed isotope data at the main spring. For this reason the system is presently not equilibrated and is gradually changing towards a final equilibrium discharge estimated in about 3·4 m³·s^?1. Copyright © 2009 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.     

On Epicentral Location of the 1216 Mahu Earthquake in Leibo County, Sichuan Province

A query regarding the now commonly accepted epicentral location of the 1216 Mahu earthquake in Leibo County, Sichuan Province is proposed after examination of local historical records of earthquakes, field investigation of the Mahu barrier lake, study of geological environment for the earthquake and the available data then a relocation of the earthquake epicenter is suggested in the paper.     

Attenuation relation of Arias intensity for Zagros Mountains region (Iran)

Arias intensity is considered as a shaking parameter suitable for characterizing earthquake impact on ground stability. Within the framework of a study aimed at providing tools for the assessment of hazards related to earthquake-induced slope failures, Arias intensity attenuation relations were determined for the Zagros Mountains region, an active tectonic belt elongated NW–SE in the western and south-western part of Iran. The calculation of relation coefficients was based on strong-motion data of earthquakes located in the Zagros area and recorded by Iranian stations managed by the Building and Housing Research Center of Iran (BHRC). Five models of attenuation relation were considered and their coefficients were estimated through a least-square regression analysis. The relations obtained were then applied to a data sample different from that used for regression and the root mean square (RMS) of residuals was examined in order to compare effectiveness of different relations in probabilistic estimates. Furthermore a comparison made with attenuation relations obtained for Alborz and the central part of Iran showed significant differences possibly related to structural differences.     

A reappraisal of active faults in central-east Iran (Kerman province)

Fault lineaments are the main input data in earthquake engineering and seismology studies. This study presents a digitally-based active fault map of the Kerman region in central-east Iran which experienced several devastating earthquakes on poorly exposed and/or not identified active faults. Using Landsat 8 data, we have carried out the image-based procedures of fault mapping, which include applying the contrast stretching technique, the principal component analysis, the color composite technique, the spectral rationing, and creating the false-color composite images. Besides, we have cross-checked the resulting map with the geological maps provided by the Geological Survey of Iran to decrease the associated uncertainties. The resulting map includes 123 fault segments, still, a part of which has been expressed in the previously compiled active-fault maps of Iran. Indeed, the new one is mapping the poorly exposed active faults, so-called secondary faults, which are able to produce strong events. These faults are primarily associated with poorly defined areas that accommodate low levels of seismicity; however, sporadic strong events are likely to occur. It has also been investigated that these kinds of faults are seismogenic and are able to produce destructive events. In total, the outcome of this study can also be jointed with seismic studies for investigating parts of the earthquake activity in central-east Iran, in particular for the fault-based approaches in impending earthquake-resistant buildings.