bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Prediction ofPinus sylvestrisclear-wood properties using NIR spectroscopy and biorthogonal partial least squares regression
Authors: Lestander Torbjörn A. , Lindeberg Johan , Eriksson Daniel , Bergsten Urban
Published: June 2008

Thirteen wood parameters were predicted using near infrared (NIR) spectra in the range 780–2380 nm modelled by biorthogonal partial least squares regression. The analysis of parameters and NIR measurements was done on clear-wood samples from the base and midstem of Scots pine ( Pinus sylvestris L.) from trees at two sites. Calibrations based on the measured parameters at seven growth rings (cambial age ranging between 6 and 42 years) could be divided into three groups: (i) the best accuracy was found for longitudinal modulus of elasticity (r > 0.9) followed by bending, compression, and cell length (0.8 < r < 0.9); (ii) microfibril angle, longitudinal hardness, proportion of latewood, and creep with correlations in the range of 0.7–0.8; and (iii) tangential hardness, cell diameter, and cell wall thickness with 0.4 < r < 0.7. It was also shown that juvenile (cambial age ≤20 years) and mature wood can be classified using NIR techniques.
Response to logging by a limited but variable nest predator guild in the boreal forest
Authors: Thompson Randy G. , Warkentin Ian G. , Flemming Stephen P.
Published: June 2008

Predation rates on the eggs and young of forest-nesting songbirds typically rise in association with anthropogenic fragmentation, but predator responses depend on the spatial scale of disturbance, context, and predator assemblages present. For landscapes that are naturally fragmented, such as the boreal forest, our understanding of nest predation patterns associated with harvest may be further confounded by an additive response of nest predators to the loss of forest cover and the extension of habitat edges. We examined predation rates on artificial nests across a range of values for landscape metrics reflecting natural and anthropogenic forest fragmentation during two summers in boreal forest stands of western Newfoundland, Canada. Nest predation by gray jays ( Perisoreus canadensis (L.)) increased significantly in logged areas, and gray jay abundance was positively linked to increasing amounts of logged edge; however, there was no response to the extent of natural openings suggesting that nest predation by jays was additive in the presence of harvest-created openings. In contrast, neither mammalian nest predators nor the unidentified predators (responsible for the largest proportion of nest losses) showed any association with the landscape fragmentation metrics assessed. Year effects shown by the unidentified nest predator category did coincide with a marked increase in small mammal and Newfoundland marten ( Martes americana (Turton) subsp. atrata (Bangs)) populations during our study. Thus, we were able to identify an additive predation response to logging, but also that the activities of predators may vary over space and time and, in turn, may variably influence the success of songbirds nesting in forests fragmented by logging.
Smaller longer, larger shorter: energy budget calculations explain intrapopulation variation in remigration intervals for loggerhead sea turtles (Caretta caretta)
Authors: Hatase Hideo , Tsukamoto Katsumi
Published: June 2008

Adult female loggerhead sea turtles ( Caretta caretta (L., 1758)) show a size-related behavioural and trophic dichotomy within several populations: oceanic planktivory by small females and neritic benthivory by large females. Within a Japanese population, smaller females have longer remigration intervals (the intervals between successive nesting years) than larger females. We hypothesized that this is attributed to the size-related foraging dichotomy, and calculated energy budgets and food requirements for the small and large females. Total reproductive energy costs for the small and large females were 1003 and 434 MJ, equivalent to 4043 kg of planktonic items and 275 kg of benthic items, respectively. The minimum durations necessary for accumulating the total reproductive energy for the small and large females were 430 and 26 days, equivalent to remigration intervals of 2 years and 1 year taking into account the nesting and migration durations and seasonal reproduction. Therefore, it was theoretically demonstrated that the intrapopulation variation in remigration intervals for Japanese loggerheads could be caused by the difference in their feeding habits, implying that remigration dynamics in a sea turtle population that shows a foraging dichotomy is regulated by feeding conditions not in a single habitat but in multiple habitats.
Relationship between energetic condition and indicators of immune function in thrushes during spring migration
Authors: Owen J. C. , Moore F. R.
Published: June 2008

Evidence suggests that the ability of an animal to maintain its immune system and (or) mount an immune response depends on its nutritional health and energetic condition. Migration is a period within an animal’s annual cycle when energetic condition varies, especially after a long, nonstop flight over a large ecological barrier. Our objective was to determine if measures of immune function in migrating Wood Thrush ( Hylocichla mustelina (J.F. Gmelin, 1789)), Swainson’s Thrush ( Catharus ustulatus (Nuttall, 1840)), Gray-cheeked Thrush ( Catharus minimus (Lafresnaye, 1848)), and Veery ( Catharus fuscescens (Stephens, 1817)) were related to the energetic condition of the birds at a stopover site during spring migration. We present data on total leukocyte, lymphocyte, and heterophil counts, heterophil/lymphocyte ratio, serum immunoglobulin gamma G (IgG) concentration, and immune response to phytohemagglutinin. Thrushes arriving at the stopover site in poor energetic condition had low leukocyte and lymphocyte counts. Heterophil/lymphocyte ratio, heterophil count, and IgG concentration were not related to energetic condition. Furthermore, immune response to phytohemagglutinin was positively related to change in mass and days spent in captivity, suggesting that immune function may improve during stopover. We suggest that migrating thrushes arriving at a stopover site in poor energetic condition may also be in poor immunological condition and may have increased susceptibility to disease or parasite infection.
Annual re-habituation of calving caribou to oilfields in northern Alaska: implications for expanding development
Authors: Haskell Shawn P. , Ballard Warren B.
Published: June 2008

Previous research led to hypotheses that calving caribou ( Rangifer tarandus granti J.A. Allen, 1902) in north Alaskan oilfields habituated to human activities: (i) across years and (ii) annually after spring migration (i.e., re-habituation). We used predictor variables of year and a spring snowmelt index to evaluate weight of evidence for these competing hypotheses. Response variables were calf percentage and sighting rate of calving caribou along a high-traffic road system from 1982 to 1990 and 2000 to 2002. We also considered local calf percentage and caribou density, determined by aerial surveys, for respective response variables. We found no evidence of habituation across years. We found two more lines of evidence (one strong and one weaker) for re-habituation within years during calving periods. Post hoc models suggested a further tolerance response exhibited by caribou; more data are needed. Even when snow melted early and calving caribou were most habituated among years, caribou and calves were under-represented near the road system. Investigation of a traffic-rate effect seems warranted. However, habitat selection and forage availability should be considered when interpreting avoidance behaviour at a larger spatial extent. We contend that the behavioural adaptability of calving caribou exhibited in existing oilfields was contingent on the no-hunt policy.
Reproductive isolation and sex-role reversal in two sympatric sand-dwelling wolf spiders of the genus Allocosa
Authors: Aisenberg A. , Costa F. G.
Published: June 2008

Allocosa brasiliensis (Petrunkevitch, 1910) is a nocturnal wolf spider inhabitant of coastal dunes. Pitfall-trap data suggested the occurrence of two sympatric and synchronic morphs, with differences in adult size and abdominal design (minor and major morphs). Previous studies performed with the major morph of A. brasiliensis, postulated courtship-role and sexual size dimorphism reversal for this spider. In the present study, we compare data on development and morphology and test reproductive isolation between morphs of A. brasiliensis, with the hypotheses that the two morphs are reproductively isolated and both show courtship-role reversal. As had been reported for the major morph of A. brasiliensis, the minor-morph females approached the burrows of minor-morph males, entered, initiated courtship, and after copulation, males closed their burrows with female cooperation from the inside. Females did not court or copulate with males belonging to the other morph and, in two cases, major-morph females cannibalised minor-morph males. Morphometrical and developmental data showed differences between morphs. The occurrence of copulation only between individuals of the same morph confirm reproductive isolation, supporting the occurrence of two species. Morphological and behavioural data are consistent with courtship-role-reversal hypotheses for the minor morph, constituting the second report in spiders of this atypical behaviour.
Carbon- and nitrogen-isotope tissue–diet discrimination and turnover rates in deer mice, Peromyscus maniculatus
Authors: Miller J. F. , Millar J. S. , Longstaffe F. J.
Published: June 2008

The dietary habits of most small mammals are not well documented, and stable isotope measurements can provide information on when and how diets change. Here we document the discrimination and turnover times for carbon and nitrogen isotopes in blood, liver, muscle, hair, and milk from deer mice ( Peromyscus maniculatus (Wagner, 1845)) fed a controlled diet. Nonbreeding adults and pregnant females were livetrapped, maintained on a commercial laboratory chow, and had tissues sampled on a regular schedule. After adjusting to the laboratory diet, most tissues of nonbreeding adults were slightly depleted of 13C and enriched in 15N relative to diet (Δ13Ctissue–diet range = 0.3‰ to –1.1 ‰; Δ15Ntissue–diet range = 1.9‰ to 3.4‰). Liver (half-lives of 2.8 and 3.6 days for C and N, respectively) turned over more rapidly than blood (22.4 and 19.8 days for C and N, respectively) and muscle (18.7 and 24.8 days for C and N, respectively). The isotopic compositions of nonbreeding and breeding adults indicated tissue turnover at approximately the same rate, but juvenile tissues reflected the laboratory diet much more quickly than adult tissues.
Chemical, thermal, and physical properties of sites selected for overwintering by northern wood turtles (Glyptemys insculpta)
Authors: Greaves W. F. , Litzgus J. D.
Published: June 2008

Northern ectotherms must seek refuge from winter conditions for a large portion of their annual activity cycle. The objective of this study was to quantify physical properties of overwintering sites selected by wood turtles ( Glyptemys insculpta (LaConte, 1830)) at the species’ northern range limit. We mapped all structural features (e.g., root balls and log jams), water depth, and sediment types along a 1.5 km stretch of river that was available to turtles outfitted with radio transmitters (N = 8) during winter. Temperature selection was assessed by comparing thermal profiles from data loggers on turtles and temperature stations within the river and other riparian habitats (e.g., ephemeral pools and oxbows). Dissolved oxygen (DO) was measured at each temperature station and turtle location. Wood turtles overwintered in the river, which was colder (~0 °C), had more stable temperatures, and provided higher DO (12.64 ppm) compared with adjacent habitats. Some turtles selected structured refuges for overwintering. Winter movements were not related to temperature or DO, but may be related to maintaining a certain distance from shore and water depth to protect against accidental relocations during winter. We discuss hibernacula as potential factors limiting the northern distribution of wood turtles, a species at risk in Canada.
Black-billed Magpies (Pica pica) adjust nest characteristics to adapt to urbanization in Hangzhou, China
Authors: Wang Yanping , Chen Shuihua , Jiang Pingping , Ding Ping
Published: June 2008

Although many bird species worldwide are colonizing urban environments, the ecological processes underlying the responses to urbanization remain unclear. Here we examined the responses of Black-billed Magpies ( Pica pica (L., 1758)) to urbanization across an urban–rural gradient by assessing nest locations, nest height, and available nest sites at six habitats (mountains, farmlands, riparians, urban parks, strips of street trees, building areas) in Hangzhou, China. In each habitat, we categorized used and available nest sites as urban (e.g., chimneys, antenna or cable poles, ledges, and open roofs on buildings) or natural (e.g., trees) nest sites. We found 147 magpie nests in five of the six habitats, and no nests in mountains. The use of urban nest sites by magpies differed significantly across habitats, and it increased significantly with the availability of urban nest sites along the urban gradients. Nest height of magpies differed significantly across habitats, and it increased significantly with urbanization intensity. The increase in nest height in urban environments can be attributed to the increases in human disturbance (the number of pedestrians). Our results indicate that magpies can adjust their nest characteristics in response to urbanization, and that nesting behavior shifts may aid them to adapt to urban systems.
Landscape effects on anuran pond occupancy in an agricultural countryside: barrier-based buffers predict distributions better than circular buffers
Authors: Zanini Flavio , Klingemann Anna , Schlaepfer Rodolphe , Schmidt Benedikt R.
Published: June 2008

Species movement and occupancy of habitat patches are dependent on landscape permeability. Some land-use types (e.g., roads) may be barriers to animal movement. Analyses of the effect of landscape structure on patch occupancy usually use circular buffers around focal patches. The main assumption of this methodological approach is that species are affected by a particular landscape element equally in every direction from a given patch. This assumption is likely not to hold if animal movement is restricted by barriers because barriers reduce movement patterns and reshape the ideal circular buffer into a noncircular buffer. We developed a method to determine the effect of landscape variables on the distribution of two amphibian species that explicitly takes dispersal barriers into account. We extracted landscape variables within (i) circular buffers (CB) and (ii) barrier-based buffers (BBB). BBB were produced by reducing the boundaries of CB according to major impassable barriers. The BBB approach almost doubled the explained deviance of multiple regression models in comparison with the CB approach. Moreover, CB and BBB models included different predictor variables. We suggest that the BBB approach is more useful than the traditional CB analyses of species–habitat relationships because ecological barriers are explicitly taken into account.
Visual specialization of an herbivore prey species, the white-tailed deer
Authors: D’Angelo G. J. , Glasser A. , Wendt M. , Williams G. A. , Osborn D. A. , Gallagher G. R. , Warren R. J. , Miller K. V. , Pardue M. T.
Published: June 2008

To gain knowledge of visual specializations influencing the behavior of white-tailed deer ( Odocoileus virginianus (Zimmermann, 1780)), we examined gross eye characteristics, structural organization of the retina, and the density and distribution of cone photoreceptors. White-tailed deer possess ocular features similar to other ungulates including a horizontal slit pupil, reflective tapetum lucidum, typical retinal structure, and medium wavelength sensitive cone photoreceptors concentrated in a horizontal visual streak. The tapetum was found to cover the superior portion of the eye and overlapped the horizontal visual streak. Comparisons between fawns and adults did not reveal any differences in retinal thickness, retinal nuclei counts, or cone photoreceptor counts. While M-cones had increased density in the visual streak, S-cones were distributed evenly across the entire retina. Schematic eye calculations of a 0.5-year-old deer indicated a hyperopic eye (+7.96) with a F/# ranging from 5.55 to 1.39 for pupil diameters of 3 to 12 mm. As expected for a crepuscularly active prey species, the visual system of white-tailed deer is specialized for sensitivity in low-light conditions and detection of predators.
A REAL-TIME QT INTERVAL DETECTION ALGORITHM
Authors: HADJ SLIMANE Z. E. , BEREKSI REGUIG F.
Published: June 2008

The QT interval is the electrocardiographic representation of the duration of ventricular depolarization and repolarization. In this paper, we have developed a new real-time QT interval detection algorithm for automatically locating the onset of QRS and the end of the T wave. The algorithm consists of several steps: signal-to-noise enhancement, QRS detection, QRS onset, and T-wave end definition. The detection algorithm is tested on electrocardiogram (ECG) signals from the universal MIT-BIH Arrhythmia Database. The resulting QRS detection algorithm has a sensitivity of 99.79% and a specificity of 99.72%. The QRS onset and T-wave detection algorithm is tested using several data records from the MIT/BIH Arrhythmia Database. The results obtained are shown to be highly satisfactory.
ACCURACY OF FINITE ELEMENT PREDICTIONS ON BONE/IMPLANT INTERFACE CONTACT PRESSURES FOR MODELS RECONSTRUCTED FROM CT SCANS
Authors: BOCCACCIO A. , LAMBERTI L. , PAPPALETTERE C. , QUAGLIARELLA L.
Published: June 2008

Finite element (FE) simulations can be utilized to predict contact pressures at the bone/implant interface as well as to identify the position and shape of the contact region. However, the accuracy and reliability of FE models of the bone/implant interface reconstructed from tomographic images may be affected by a number of factors such as the presence of image artifacts, the magnitude of geometric errors made in the reconstruction process, the type of boundary and loading conditions hypothesized in the model, the nonlinear solver utilized for computing the contact pressure distribution, and the element type. This paper attempts to estimate the global effect of the aforementioned factors. For this purpose, a cylindrical contact problem — pin/muff — portraying a simplified model of the bone/implant interface is considered. The accuracy of numerical predictions is estimated by comparing contact pressures predicted by an FE model reconstructed from computed tomography (CT) scan images and by an "ideal", experimentally validated FE model. Two different couplings, i.e. chromium-cobalt alloy and titanium implants, are considered. In the former case, image artifacts complicate the reconstruction process of model geometry and lead to less accurate predictions on contact pressure distribution; conversely, the limited streaking effects occurring in the titanium pin case allow us to precisely reconstruct coupling geometry. Finally, a rather clear correlation between errors on contact pressure and geometric errors made in the reconstruction process is found only for the titanium pin.
MECHANICS OF ACTIVE POROUS MEDIA: BONE TISSUE ENGINEERING APPLICATION
Authors: PIERRE J. , DAVID B. , PETITE H. , ODDOU C.
Published: June 2008

In orthopedics, a currently developed technique for large graft hybrid implants consists of using porous and biocompatible scaffolds seeded with a patient's bone cells. Successful culture in such large implants remains a challenge for biologists, and requires strict control of the physicochemical and mechanical environments achieved by perfusion within a bioreactor for several weeks. This perfusion, with a nutritive fluid carrying solute ingredients, is necessary for the active cells to grow, proliferate, differentiate, and produce extracellular matrices. An understanding and control of these processes, which lead to substrate degradation and extracellular matrix remodeling during the in vitro culture phase, depend widely on the success in the realization of new orthopedic biomaterials. Within this context, the analysis of the interactions between convective phenomena of hydrodynamic origin and chemical reactions of biological order which are associated to these processes is a fundamental challenge in the framework of bone tissue engineering. In order to better account for the different intricate processes taking place in such a sample and to design a relevant experimental protocol leading to the definition of an optimal tissue implant, we propose one- and two-dimensional theoretical models based on transport phenomena in porous active media.
POSITRON EMISSION TOMOGRAPHY AND RADIATION THERAPY COMPUTERIZED TREATMENT PLANNING SYSTEMS
Authors: ODERO D. O. , HARTLEY J. R. , SHIMM D. S.
Published: June 2008

Imaging devices aid clinicians in disease staging and treatment planning procedures for cancer patients. In this technical report, the basic physics of positron emission tomography (PET) are briefly discussed. The integration of PET images into radiation therapy computerized treatment planning systems (TPS) for PET and computed tomography (CT) image fusion via portable storage media and Web-based PET image manipulation software is described. The PET images were obtained from a mobile dual PET/CT scanner (Discovery ST, GE Medical Systems) located two miles away from our radiation therapy center, and were fused with CT images from an independent stand-alone CT scanner (Siemens Somatom Emotion). Quality assurance for treatment planning PET images as well as radiation safety issues related to PET are also briefly discussed.
EFFECTS OF AGING ON THE LATENCY PERIOD IN MANDIBULAR DISTRACTION OSTEOGENESIS: A COMPUTATIONAL MECHANOBIOLOGICAL ANALYSIS
Authors: BOCCACCIO ANTONIO , LAMBERTI LUCIANO , PAPPALETTERE CARMINE
Published: June 2008

Mandibular symphyseal distraction osteogenesis is a clinical procedure utilized in orthodontics for solving problems of dental overcrowding on the mandibular arch. A critical issue is to evaluate the optimal duration of the latency period between the osteotomy and the first aperture of distraction device. In fact, the latency period should change with the patient's age. To this end, a computational mechanobiological model has been developed in order to find optimal durations of latency period for young, adult, and elder patients. The model is implemented in a finite element framework simulating the process of tissue differentiation in the bone callus formed after osteotomy. The biophysical stimulus regulating the tissue differentiation process is hypothesized to be a function of the octahedral shear strain and interstitial fluid flow velocity. The resulting spatial distribution of stiffness properties in the callus region is analyzed in order to assess the risk of premature bone union of osteotomy edges. The three-dimensional (3D) finite element model (FEM) of human mandible is reconstructed from computed tomography (CT) scans and also includes a tooth-borne device. Under unilateral occlusion, the mandible is submitted to full mastication loading or to mastication forces reduced by 70%. The results show that optimal durations of the latency period for preventing premature bone union are about 5–6 days for the young patient, 7–8 days for the adult patient, and 9–10 days for the elder patient. These durations seem rather insensitive to the magnitude of mastication forces. Finally, distraction force values predicted by the present mechanobiological model are in good agreement with data reported in the literature.
ACCELEROMETERS FOR QUANTIFICATION OF GAIT AND MOVEMENT DISORDERS: A PERSPECTIVE REVIEW
Authors: LEMOYNE ROBERT , COROIAN CRISTIAN , MASTROIANNI TIMOTHY , GRUNDFEST WARREN
Published: June 2008

Accelerometers have become increasingly integrated in the biomedical field, as they are highly portable and capable of objectively and reliably quantifying motion. Two specific applications for accelerometers are the quantification of gait and movement disorders, such as Parkinson's disease and essential tremor. The evolution of accelerometers to their present status is discussed. Accelerometry is contrasted with more traditional means for accessing gait and movement disorders. Advances in the research validation of accelerometers for the characterization of gait and movement disorders, such as essential tremor and Parkinson's disease, are addressed. The review concludes with the advancement of three-dimensional (3D) wireless accelerometers and pertinent future implications.
FINSLER AND LAGRANGE GEOMETRIES IN EINSTEIN AND STRING GRAVITY
Authors: VACARU SERGIU I.
Published: June 2008

We review the current status of Finsler–Lagrange geometry and generalizations. The goal is to aid non-experts on Finsler spaces, but physicists and geometers skilled in general relativity and particle theories, to understand the crucial importance of such geometric methods for applications in modern physics. We also would like to orient mathematicians working in generalized Finsler and Kähler geometry and geometric mechanics how they could perform their results in order to be accepted by the community of "orthodox" physicists.

Although the bulk of former models of Finsler–Lagrange spaces where elaborated on tangent bundles, the surprising result advocated in our works is that such locally anisotropic structures can be modeled equivalently on Riemann–Cartan spaces, even as exact solutions in Einstein and/or string gravity, if nonholonomic distributions and moving frames of references are introduced into consideration.

We also propose a canonical scheme when geometrical objects on a (pseudo) Riemannian space are nonholonomically deformed into generalized Lagrange, or Finsler, configurations on the same manifold. Such canonical transforms are defined by the coefficients of a prime metric and generate target spaces as Lagrange structures, their models of almost Hermitian/Kähler, or nonholonomic Riemann spaces.

Finally, we consider some classes of exact solutions in string and Einstein gravity modeling Lagrange–Finsler structures with solitonic pp-waves and speculate on their physical meaning.
GEOMETRICAL AND DYNAMICAL ASPECTS IN THE THEORY OF RABINOVICH SYSTEM
Authors: CHIŞ OANA , PUTA MIRCEA
Published: June 2008

We discuss some geometrical and dynamical properties of Rabinovich systems.
A COHOMOLOGICAL CONSTRUCTION OF MODULES OVER FEDOSOV DEFORMATION QUANTIZATION ALGEBRA
Authors: POL'SHIN S. A.
Published: June 2008

In certain neighborhood U of an arbitrary point of a symplectic manifold M we construct a Fedosov-type star-product *L such that for an arbitrary leaf ℘ of a given polarization [Formula: see text] the vanishing ideal of ℘ ∩ U in the commutative algebra C∞(U)[[h]] is a left ideal in the deformed algebra (C∞(U)[[h]],*L). With certain additional assumptions on M, *L becomes a so-called star-product with separation of variables.
LORENTZIAN 3-MANIFOLDS WITH COMMUTING CURVATURE OPERATORS
Authors: GARCÍA-RÍO EDUARDO , HAJI-BADALI ALI , VÁZQUEZ-ABAL M. ELENA , VÁZQUEZ-LORENZO RAMÓN
Published: June 2008

Three-dimensional Lorentzian manifolds with commuting curvature operators are studied. A complete description is given at the algebraic level. Consequences are obtained at the differentiable setting for manifolds which additionally are assumed to be locally symmetric or homogeneous.
GENERALIZED BÄCKLUND–DARBOUX TRANSFORMATIONS IN ONE-DIMENSIONAL QUANTUM MECHANICS
Authors: CARIÑENA JOSÉ F. , RAMOS ARTURO
Published: June 2008

We consider an action of the group of curves in GL(2,ℝ) on the set of linear systems and therefore on the set of Schrödinger equations in full similarity with the action of the group of curves in SL(2,ℝ) on the set of Riccati equations considered in previous articles. We also consider the transformations defined by a first-order differential expression which carry solutions of a Schrödinger equation into solutions of another one. We find then two non-trivial situations: transformations which can be described by the previous transformation group, generalizing previous work by us, and transformations which are singular. We show that both situations appear, e.g., in the usual problem of partner Hamiltonians in quantum mechanics.

We show that the difference Bäcklund algorithm, both in the finite and confluent versions, can be understood in terms of the above mentioned transformation group, the case of two exactly equal factorization energies being an instance of the singular case. We apply the generalized theorem relating three eigenfunctions of three different Hamiltonians to the generation of new potentials with a known (excited state) eigenfunction, starting from potentials of Coulomb, Morse and Rosen–Morse type. The potentials found are new and non-trivial.
A history of the Geological Conservation Review
Authors: Ellis Neil
Published: June 2008

A particularly ambitious programme for overhauling site assessment and documentation for geoconservation in Great Britain was initiated in the mid-1970s by the Nature Conservancy Council (NCC) resulting in the formal launch of the ‘Geological Conservation Review’ (GCR) in 1977. The GCR was a world-first project of its type in the assessment of the whole geological heritage or ‘geodiversity’ of a country from first principles. Criteria and assessment methods were developed, with a view to selecting the very best sites to represent the diversity of British geology and geomorphology. A list of selection categories—GCR ‘Blocks’—encompassing British geology and geomorphology was devised. Widespread consultation with geologists and geomorphologists across Great Britain was co-ordinated; and the criteria refined and interpreted to suit the selection category at hand. Field investigation of proposed sites was a key component of site selection, although the selection process relied heavily on expert knowledge, literature-review and consensus-building. Almost 3000 sites had been selected for around 100 site selection categories for the GCR ‘register’ by 1990. Most GCR sites are now conserved under British law as Sites of Special Scientific Interest. In Great Britain, the GCR has formed the ‘benchmark’ for attainment of national importance (in a British context), rather than regional importance; a ‘minimum number of sites’ criterion is enshrined in the GCR ethos to assist in defining this benchmark. As part of the site-selection process, a considerable archive of information about sites was amassed. A major publication exercise detailing all of the GCR sites in what was to become the GCR series of books was devised early on in the GCR programme of work. An electronic GCR database was also created in the 1980s and has been the subject of ongoing revision. Although this paper has a historical outlook, the GCR project is not intended to be a finished record of Britain's best sites up to 1990. Instead, the GCR register will keep pace with new discoveries and developments in geological research. In the future, further re-evaluation and confirmation of the ‘conservation value’ of each site is envisaged; assessment of additional sites will also take place, so that the GCR designation can continue to be a hallmark for quality in geoconservation for years to come.
A historical perspective on local communities and geological conservation
Authors: Worton Graham J.
Published: June 2008

Like every other human endeavour in the modern world geological conservation has evolved from the changing desires and necessities of evolving communities. Local people in generations past had a need to be ‘in tune’ with their local landscapes and the environments making use of local materials and landform in order to survive and prosper. These early communities have enriched our modern landscapes with their legacy of geodiversity in altered landscapes, the built environment and venerated geological features. In a modern context we may consider ‘geoconservation’ to be the ‘conservation of geodiversity’ and we should acknowledge that local people and historic communities have had a very long involvement in conserving geological heritage although often without consciously doing so. This is particularly the case in terms of landscape and the applied geology of the built environment. Early local communities were usually of low cultural diversity with values of narrow focus. It is commonly local people and local specialist interest societies that have made geological discoveries and brought their importance to the attention of the specialists. In the late 1900s local groups drove the development of what is now the familiar framework for protection of geological heritage and in particular the non-statutory sites and features that rely being locally valued for their sustainability and survival.

This paper cannot be a comprehensive account of the evolution of peoples and their changing engagement with geodiversity. It is, rather, a summary account using selected scattered illustrations of geoconservation through the ages. It examines what we mean by local community and its involvement, either consciously or unconsciously, in protecting geodiversity through stages in human history.
A history of geological conservation on the Isle of Wight
Authors: Munt Martin
Published: June 2008

The Isle of Wight on the south coast of England has near continuous exposures of Early Cretaceous to Early Oligocene and Quaternary deposits and has long been regarded as a classic area of British geology. It has a long history of study dating back to the start of the nineteenth century. The identified threats to geoconservation are coastal erosion, coastal protection schemes aimed at preventing erosion and fossil collecting. Of these, however, erosion and collecting can also be seen as opportunities. Geology has influenced tourism since the eighteenth century which subsequently promoted both interpretation and conservation. Collecting of geological specimens for museum collections is documented as early as 1825. Site-based conservation began in 1951 with the notification of geological Sites of Special Scientific Interest (SSSIs) and Regionally Important Geological/geomorphological Sites (RIGS) have been notified since the mid 1990s. There has been a voluntary set of guidelines for fossil collecting and more recently the preparation of a Local Geodiversity Action Plan (LGAP) brought together diverse groups and individuals to begin developing a strategic approach to interpreting and conserving the island's geological heritage. The main outcome of the LGAP process has been to develop a partnership with a view to applying for membership of the European Geoparks Network.
Context and history of geological conservation in Warwickshire, central England
Authors: Radley Jonathan D.
Published: June 2008

The geology of Warwickshire, central England, is diverse but generally poorly exposed. Geological conservation initiatives can be traced back to the mid to late nineteenth century when the Warwickshire Natural History and Archaeological Society amassed locally collected geological specimens and documented local geological sites. The society declined during the late nineteenth century. Following the Second World War, local geological conservation activity was invigorated by national initiatives, leading to establishment of geological Sites of Special Scientific Interest within the county and a site recording programme at the Warwickshire Museum. The Warwickshire Geological Conservation Group was established in 1990. Subsequently, a partnership between that group and the Warwickshire Museum, with support from the Nature Conservancy Council, resulted in establishment of a Regionally Important Geological/geomorphological Sites network. These sites are presently the focus of funded conservation and interpretation projects.
Cavers and geoconservation: the history of cave exploration and its contribution to speleology in the Yorkshire Dales
Authors: Murphy Phillip J. , Chamberlain Andrew T.
Published: June 2008

Caves are important as they preserve archaeological and palaeoenvironmental data otherwise lost from the land surface. The fragile nature and limited extent of cave deposits is often not appreciated by non‐specialists and the activities of the main group of cave visitors (sporting cavers) are viewed as damaging to the cave interior deposits. Potential threats to the cave interior deposits of the Yorkshire Dales National Park including caver activity are reviewed. It is concluded that sporting cavers have added greatly to our knowledge of the archaeological record contained in the caves. They appreciate the value of the underground environment and take steps to preserve the cave interior deposits. Any geoconservation strategy that deals with caves must involve the caving community.
Conservation at the cutting-edge: the history of geoconservation on the Wren's Nest National Nature Reserve, Dudley, England
Authors: Prosser Colin D. , Larwood Jonathan G.
Published: June 2008

In 1949, nature conservation legislation was passed in Great Britain which enabled areas of land to be declared as National Nature Reserves (NNRs). In 1956, the Wren's Nest, Dudley, a Silurian (Wenlock) limestone hill, internationally famous for its geology and fossil reef faunas, was declared a geological NNR. The combination of internationally important geology, abandoned, unstable and dangerous quarries and mines, and a large adjacent urban population have provided continual conservation challenges. This paper uses contemporary correspondence to describe the deliberations that led to the Wren's Nest being declared as one of the first NNRs in England. It goes on to describe the major management challenges which have arisen. These include instability and collapse of mine workings, fly-tipping, vandalism and heavy recreational use by the local community. It highlights the conservation solutions that have been developed during the 50 year history of the reserve. These have included management of unstable and dangerous ground, cutting of new geological sections, establishment of geology trails, use of volunteers and the strengthening of local community links. The Wren's Nest has also played an important role in raising awareness of the geological heritage within the local planning authority. This has led to the adoption of geoconservation policies and to the development of projects using the area's geological heritage to attract visitors. Today the Wren's Nest remains important for its geology and is also one of the most significant geological reserves in the world for demonstrating the challenges of geoconservation and how they may be overcome. This historical perspective on 50 years in the life of a reserve provides an insight into the innovative geoconservation solutions developed at the Wren's Nest that can be applied elsewhere. Although the Wren's Nest NNR is internationally known for its geology, and has a very high profile in geoconservation, this paper is the first to attempt to explore the thinking and process that led to this abandoned industrial site, in an urban setting, being declared as one of the first NNRs in the UK.
A history of geoconservation in the Republic of Ireland
Authors: Parkes M. A.
Published: June 2008

Geoconservation in the Republic of Ireland has had only a short history and very few champions within the geoscience community or from the wider population. An early start came with a listing of Areas of Scientific Interest (ASIs) by An Foras Forbartha in 1981. A successful legal challenge to this scheme required a back-to-the-drawing-board approach but the exclusion of geological heritage from subsequent nature conservation assessment was a major setback. Only persistent effort from within the Geological Survey of Ireland has allowed a belated integration of geoconservation into the work of other state agents over the last eight years, through the Irish Geological Heritage Programme. Today, a twin track approach operates with statutory Natural Heritage Areas and non-statutory County Geological Sites. There are broad parallels to UK geoconservation strategies, but having also amalgamated much best practice from European and other countries, through involvement with ProGEO. The existing geoconservation programme is very modest through lack of human resources; it has evolved rapidly to exploit the available opportunities, especially in conjunction with local authorities. It has worked to keep geoconservation in the public consciousness in parallel with the work through official channels.
History of geoconservation in Europe
Authors: Erikstad Lars
Published: June 2008

Europe consists of many countries and legislative regimes. Some countries have a long history of geoconservation with well developed strategies and practices and others lack the most basic legislation for this kind of work. Some of the earliest geoconservation is found within Germany such as the conservation and visitor control from 1668 in the showcave Baumannshöle. At the start of the twentieth century basic legislation came into force in several countries with more or less effective potential to protect geology. Geology was also important within the National Park movement at the same time.

Modern legislation, inventories and conservation strategies were developed mostly during the second half of the twentieth century. International cooperation has become more important and the association ProGEO and the European Geoparks Network are important in a European context. World Heritage Sites designated on geological criteria are also increasingly common. Geoconservation has been included as a recommendation by the European Council and has begin to be visible in EU policies (such as the soil strategy). As for the future, the challenge lies in getting organizations and disciplines to work together in ways that develop synergy between existing initiatives, share management experience and collaborate over research.
How things began: the origins of geological conservation
Authors: Doughty Philip
Published: June 2008

The origins of geoconservation cannot be investigated without first defining its scope. This presents a problem because there is no established working definition of the field. By using the Giant's Causeway as a case study, useful parameters were identified revealing great complexity. They embrace initial curiosity, scientific communication, mythology, access issues, the involvement of national scientific institutions, controversial but ultimately successful iconography, the invention of new artistic conventions, dissemination by engraving, scientific reaction, rekindling of a fundamental geological controversy, tourism, popular literature, modes of transport, commercialization, additions to fundamental science, designation history and historic associations of the site. Other sites are similarly complex and assist in refining the scope. Sites are seen as the principal resource but on analysis achieve their status from what they reveal or the importance of the materials they yield, in turn spotlighting the major museum collections. These are now well documented though not all are secure. It was not the scientific imperative that established the first public designation but an impassioned delight in unspoiled nature which three men, two Americans, Henry Thoreau and George Marsh but especially the Scots environmentalist, John Muir, projected carefully into the attuned ear of the US President. This brief overview closes with the revelation of neglected areas of heritage, paths that geoconservation could have taken and still may and suggests how earlier definitions could be elevated into a more specific and holistic geoconservation strategy.
Geodiversity in the wilderness: a brief history of geoconservation in Tasmania
Authors: Houshold Ian , Sharples Chris
Published: June 2008

Since the early 1980s, conservation-orientated Earth scientists in Australia's island state of Tasmania have developed an approach to geoconservation that places emphasis on geomorphology, soils and landform processes, in contrast to the stronger emphasis in some places on the scientific values of bedrock geological features. Although bedrock geoheritage has not been ignored, this geomorphological emphasis emerged from Tasmania's recent political history, during which the conservation of large areas of wilderness has dominated local political debate from the early 1970s to the 1990s. With the recognition of undisturbed natural landscapes and ecosystems (wilderness) as having conservation value, it was only a short step to valuing natural landforms, soils and ongoing geomorphological processes as the key abiotic elements of that broader focus. With popular and political acceptance during the 1980s and 1990s of the conservation of wilderness values as a legitimate government policy, Earth scientists within Tasmanian state government land management agencies had a mandate to develop and implement geoconservation policies. The optimum strategy for the small community of geoconservation workers in Tasmania has been to focus on developing theoretical, legislative and management tools for geoconservation in public land management agencies. Tasmanian workers found existing theoretical frameworks for geoconservation inappropriate for their needs, and adopted additional concepts to identify, justify and implement geoconservation. The concept of geodiversity has proven to be a powerful framework for developing classification systems which in turn allow thematic, georegional analyses to provide a systematic, objective and scientifically defensible context for identifying well-expressed representative examples of the various elements of geodiversity. This approach has resulted in the adoption of a terminology distinct from that previously used on mainland Australia, which is, however, convergent with terminology now used in Europe.
History of Geoparks
Authors: Jones Cheryl
Published: June 2008

The philosophy behind the Geoparks concept was first introduced at the Digne Convention in 1991 as a means to protect and promote geological heritage and sustainable local development through a global network of territories containing geology of outstanding value. In 1997, in direct response to the ‘Declaration of the Rights of the Memory of the Earth', the Division of Earth Sciences of UNESCO introduced the concept of a UNESCO Geoparks Programme to support national and international endeavours in Earth heritage conservation. In 2000, representatives from four European territories met together to address regional economic development through the protection of geological heritage and the promotion of geotourism. The result of this meeting was the signing of a convention declaring the creation of the European Geoparks Network (EGN). The next significant step for the EGN was the signing of an official agreement of collaboration with UNESCO in 2001, placing the Network under the auspices of the organzsation. In 2004 the 17 existing European Geoparks joined with eight new Chinese national Geoparks to form a Global Network of National Geoparks under the auspices of UNESCO. This Global Network of National Geoparks has encouraged other countries such as Iran and Brazil to develop Geoparks programmes. By 2007, European Geoparks were distributed across 15 European countries. There are 31 members of the European Geoparks Network, bringing the total number of Global Geoparks to 52. Progress has not always been easy, however, and finding funding to develop the initiative and secure the future of individual Geoparks remains a significant challenge.