bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Spanish Working End Of Law Degree In The European Higher Education Area
Authors: Alonso Patricia Dominguez
Published: March 2016

The working end of Law Degree is called to develop an important role when we consider that the European Higher Education Area is the student manager of his own learning and is considered essential that the student of law, among other skills, to acquire critical thinking skills, investigation techniques, personal development work and use of legal principles and fundamental values as a working tool in the interpretation of the legal system. The development of the working end of Law Degree in order to allow the student to a specific topic in depth and learn to develop a basic legal research. The work will enable the assessment of skills associated with the title of Bachelor of Laws. To highlight an element of the research is that development of it should be conducted in an orderly and systematic manner for which the teacher's work is essential from the outset. In this sense, the student, with guidance from the teacher must identify a target as the first topic of study. Much of the importance of the work lies in the student's learning method and technique to use. At this point, given that the study is done in the legal field, the work must be developed in stages, which are discussed in the communication. One final aspect to take into account and that is also the subject of analysis is the defense of the research to be undertaken before a court of teachers. The paper shall provide thoughts on what this job should be to grade, allowing students to deepen a specific topic and learn how to develop a basic legal research. It also examines the role to develop both the tutor and the student throughout the work until the presentation and defense of the court appointed by the Faculty concerned.
Skill Development In Social Science Subjects: A Proposed Methodology
Authors: Mondejar-Jimenez Juan-Antonio , Cordente-Rodriguez Maria , Lorenzo-Romero Carlota , Mondejar-Jimenez Jose , Vargas-Vargas Manuel
Published: March 2016

The university has to train students in skills which according to the demanding requirements of the job market and social environment are the basis of their competitiveness: specific skills or generic skills cutting across the different degrees. The convergence framework defined by the European Higher Education Area requires the incorporation of educational and psychology progress in skill development, because the teacher becomes a teaching facilitator instead of a transmitter of knowledge, where the students learn to learn and the lecturer teach how to learn; for this the teacher guides students' self-learning, using appropriate resources, working methods and monitoring. This paper examines the skills required of students on social science courses and shows the experience of how to develop, promote and evaluate these skills.
Are Men And Women Different In European Higher Education Area?
Authors: Garcia Maria-Carmen , Fernandez-Aviles Gema
Published: March 2016

One of the principles of universities is to include and promote teaching and research in gender equality and non discrimination in all academic fields of training. But this is not easy to measure. This paper proposes a qualitative methodology to measure the problem and applies it to the University of Castilla-La Mancha (Spain).
Sharing Resources: Benefits Of University Partnerships To Improve Teaching, Learning And Research
Authors: Hilliard Ann
Published: March 2016

Today, many higher educational institutions are forward thinking about promoting strategic initiatives by establishing partnerships with other universities nationally and internationally. Being financial and academically savvy, universities are reaching out to meet the demands of public interests in different types of college programs and improving management processes at the university (Kruss, 2005). When universities share their human and non-human services and resources with a partner university, these universities could create effective ways to leverage more of their resources economically. The researcher will discuss the overall benefits of university partnering with another university, partnership processes, and effective communication and goal settings as partners, effective planning, international partnership benefits, and collaboration in project research, the importance of innovation and technology and evaluation of partnership objectives. University partnerships could improve many aspects of universities including, but not limited to, academic course offerings, economic status with gained support, social cross-culture advantage, political interest and support and create an environment that improves the quality of teaching, learning and research using technology.
Expectations, Practices, And Preferences Of College Students: A Cross-Cultural Perspective Of CIS-Born And Israeli-Born Students In Israel
Authors: Davidovitch Nitza , Elena Lobova , Elena Pryamikova , Tatiana Semenova , Tatiana Pechenkina , Maria Yachmeneva
Published: March 2016

Processes of globalization are permeating the world of higher education and escalating to a previously unprecedented degree, and institutions of higher education previously known for their cultural homogeneity are becoming increasingly heterogeneous. Consequently, cross-cultural study of higher education is evolving from a discipline investigating a relatively marginal phenomenon to one examining a rapidly accelerating process shifting from the margins to the center. Today some claim that cultural differences between students are an essential factor affecting their study expectations, practices, and preferences. This study seeks to examine differences in learning styles, expectations, and study practices of Israeli students versus students in the Commonwealth of Independent States (CIS). The research population consisted of 1,122 students, 554 studying in Israeli institutions of higher education and 568 in the CIS. The research tool was developed specifically for this study and it consisted of 44 items related to four main spheres: 1) students' personal and academic background characteristics, 2) perception of the academic world and of the opportunities afforded by higher education, 3) evaluation of the study environment, and 4) faculty/student responsibility for the study process. Research results indicate intercultural differences on almost all dimensions examined - personal and academic characteristics, perception of opportunities offered by academic studies as manifested in perception of crucial factors for selecting schools, factors arousing academic interest, crucial factors producing competent lecturers, requirements for receiving a good education, creating satisfaction with study conditions, study practices, and time devoted to studies. Research conclusions indicate that the inclusive character of the findings should prompt the academic world to examine mobility in higher education from a cultural perspective. Specifically, it is necessary to consider the diversity of practices, study styles, and preferences among international students.
Psychological Loneliness Among Arab Students At Irbid National University, Jordan
Authors: Al-Kadoumi Khawla , Sawalha Abdel Muhdi , Momani Mr. Mohammad Al
Published: March 2016

The purpose of this study is to investigate the level of psychological loneliness among Arab students studying at Irbid National University, and to investigate the effect of year of study and gender of students on the level of psychological loneliness. The sample of the study consisted of 149 students, 133 males and 16 females from first, second, third and fourth years. Means and standard deviations and T-tests were used to analyze the results. The results show that there are statistically significant differences in psychological loneliness among Arab students studying at Irbid National University. The results indicate that there are statistically significant differences at (a= 0.05) in the level of psychological loneliness among Arab students due to year of study variable but no statistically significant differences at (a= 0.05) in psychological loneliness among Arab students due to gender variable.
The Impact Of Using The Heuristic Teaching Method On Jordanian Mathematics Students
Authors: Al-Fayez Mona Qutefan , Jubran Sereen Mousa
Published: March 2016

This study investigates the impact of using the heuristic teaching approach for teaching mathematics to tenth grade students in Jordan. The researchers followed the equivalent pre/post T test two group designs. To achieve the goal of the study, a pre/post- test was constructed to measure student achievement in mathematics. The sample for this study consisted of 142 students; 69 male students and 73 female students from tenth grade at King Abdullah School in Irbid, Jordan for the first semester of the academic year 2011/2012. The subjects of the study were distributed into an experimental group and a control group. The experimental group was taught mathematics using the heuristic approach while the control group was taught mathematics using the traditional method of teaching. The subjects were 34 male students for the experimental group and 35 male students for the control group, while the female students for the experimental and control group were 37 and 36 respectively. Those subjects were distributed into two purposefully selected sections at king Abdullah School in Irbid. Descriptive statistical analyses were used (means and standard deviation) for the pre- and post- tests of students. Comparison statistical methods were used (Two Way ANOVA) analysis of variance to make a comparison between the control and the experimental groups and gender variable. The findings of the study indicated that there were statistically significant differences in the post- test between the control and the experimental groups in favor of the experimental group, and there was no statistically significant difference in the students' achievement due to gender. There was no statistically significant difference due to the interaction between gender and group. The researcher proposes some recommendations to enhance the effect of using heuristic approach in teaching mathematics on students' performance such as conducting further studies in other universities.
Conceptualizing Programme Evaluation
Authors: Hassan Salochana
Published: March 2016

The main thrust of this paper deals with the conceptualization of theory-driven evaluation pertaining to a tutor training programme. Conceptualization of evaluation, in this case, is an integration between a conceptualization model as well as a theoretical framework in the form of activity theory. Existing examples of frameworks of programme evaluation from the literature have been conjugated to yield a conceptualization model for the evaluation of the tutor training programme at the Cape Peninsula University of Technology in South Africa. In order to take the study to a higher level of deep analysis, this paper argues for the application of activity theory in the research design and subsequent data collection and analysis. Since evaluation can be a daunting and complex task, the adoption of theory was intended to provide a fulcrum for the study and therefore, this paper argues, becomes an integral part of evaluation. In addition, the application of activity theory in programme evaluation has not been well explored elsewhere and therefore, this paper transcends this limitation by making a case for the use of activity theory in programme evaluation, in particular, tutor training programmes.
Engaging Youth In Creating A Healthy School Environment: A Photovoice Strategy
Authors: Henry Carol , Ramdath Dan , White Judy , Mangroo Sharon
Published: March 2016

This study examined a pilot participatory needs assessment that was conducted with nine senior high school students from Port of Spain, Trinidad. Photovoice was used to engage these students in critical dialogue about their perceptions of issues affecting their health. Trained graduate students facilitated a 3-day training session in photovoice technique/ethics, writing narratives, critical reflection and dialogue with these students. Once trained, they were given disposable cameras and asked to photograph their school environment and document their thoughts on what they had photographed. After collation of photos and dialogue, seven health themes emerged. The most recurring themes included quality of the food served at schools, need for safe, clean and well-maintained school facilities, and role modeling by teachers, parents and community. Recommendations to address the concerns identified were discussed by the participants. The study concluded that conducting needs assessment, which concentrates on the voices of those affected, can be a first step in creating successful and cost-efficient programs and interventions tailored to specific groups. A needs assessment using photovoice should be a technique considered by school staff, government leaders, health professionals, and NGOs.
Team Teaching Styles Utilized In Japan: Do They Really Work?
Authors: Carley III Harry F.
Published: March 2016

This paper continues the debate over TT(team-teaching) benefits and detriments. TT has been utilized extensively inJapan in English Language instructional courses at the elementary and juniorhigh school levels over the past 20 years. Although at times satirical, theauthor in all seriousness discusses TT and; its advantages and disadvantages inlight of his experiences in various TT instructional environments. Teamteaching can be a viable option for large or multiple classes; unfortunately, however,personality and cultural conflicts between instructors most often disallow anybenefits that might be gained by the learners. In this paper, the author willdiscuss and share his specific experiences with TT over a fifteen year periodin Japanese kindergartens, elementary schools, and junior high schools.Concluding remarks will analyze the TT approach between Japanese instructors incollaboration with their fellow Japanese teachers.
Accreditation Of Prior Experiential Learning As A Catalyst For Lifelong Learning: Analysis And Proposals Based On French Experiments
Authors: Sanseau Pierre-Yves , Ansart Sandrine
Published: March 2016

In this paper, the researchers analyse how lifelong learning can be enriched and develop a different perspective based on the experiment involving the accreditation of prior experiential learning (APEL) conducted in France at the university level. The French system for the accreditation of prior experiential learning, called Validation des Acquis de l’Expérience (VAE), accredits prior learning from past experiences (professional and otherwise) and can lead to full university degrees or diplomas. A literature review on lifelong learning shows that worldwide, it is based on different conceptions and approaches, according to the realities of the education and labour systems and the relationship between them. The researchers note however that work experience is less valued than the acquisition of new and complementary knowledge.Studies on VAE in France in higher education show that a thorough analysis of prior experiential learning: first, improves the quality of the experience as a potential source of skills; second, may provide ways to improve the candidate's experiential learning, and third, may help define the direction for lifelong learning. Therefore, recognition of this experiential learning could be a key catalyst for lifelong learning. The findings support two main arguments advocating a central role for the recognition of prior experiential learning in the lifelong learning process particularly in France: potentially individualized learning paths, personal empowerment and shorter training times; and a focus on experience - and not just professional experience - that is in tune with today’s societal changes and the aspirations/constraints of each individual.
Quantitative And Qualitative Results: Cooperative Learning Implementation With Hispanic Community College Freshmen
Authors: Morgan Bobbette M. , Keitz Ruth A. , Wells Lori
Published: March 2016

Five classes of Art Appreciation first semester undergraduate Hispanic students assigned to one professor were selected to experience cooperative learning over a full semester. Pre-semester surveys and post-semester surveys were completed by 104 Hispanic freshmen college students. Strategies used in the classes included Think-Pair-Share, Ticket Out the Door, Jigsaw and being a member of base groups of two. This study is based upon theories of social interdependence, cognitive development, and behavioral learning. The surveys were completed by the first time college freshmen to compare and contrast knowledge about their experiences in: 1) individual learning, and 2) learning with a partner.
Using Alternative Assessments In Business And Foreign Language Classes
Authors: Gill Deborah , Lucas Diane
Published: March 2016

The present study will be divided in three parts: (1) a discussion of authentic alternative assessments vs. traditional assessments in language and business classes; (2) an explanation on how to create authentic alternative assessments using technology-based and non-technology-based materials; and (3) tools to evaluate these authentic assessments. We will discuss alternative assessments which have been used in a number of different business and foreign language classes, student reactions to these assessments, and our observations as to the impact and results these assessments have had on student learning.
A Bootstrapping-based Method to Automatically Identify Data-usage Statements in Publications
Authors: Zhang Qiuzi , Cheng Qikai , Huang Yong , Lu Wei
Published: March 2016

Purpose

Our study proposes a bootstrapping-based method to automatically extract data-usage statements from academic texts.

Design/methodology/approach

The method for data-usage statements extraction starts with seed entities and iteratively learns patterns and data-usage statements from unlabeled text. In each iteration, new patterns are constructed and added to the pattern list based on their calculated score. Three seed-selection strategies are also proposed in this paper.

Findings

The performance of the method is verified by means of experiments on real data collected from computer science journals. The results show that the method can achieve satisfactory performance regarding precision of extraction and extensibility of obtained patterns.

Research limitations

While the triple representation of sentences is effective and efficient for extracting data-usage statements, it is unable to handle complex sentences. Additional features that can address complex sentences should thus be explored in the future.

Practical implications

Data-usage statements extraction is beneficial for data-repository construction and facilitates research on data-usage tracking, dataset-based scholar search, and dataset evaluation.

Originality/value

To the best of our knowledge, this paper is among the first to address the important task of automatically extracting data-usage statements from real data.
How Users Search the Mobile Web: A Model for Understanding the Impact of Motivation and Context on Search Behaviors
Authors: Wu Dan , Zhu Man , Ran Aihua
Published: March 2016

Purpose

This study explores how search motivation and context influence mobile Web search behaviors.

Design/methodology/approach

We studied 30 experienced mobile Web users via questionnaires, semi-structured interviews, and an online diary tool that participants used to record their daily search activities. SQLite Developer was used to extract data from the users’ phone logs for correlation analysis in Statistical Product and Service Solutions (SPSS).

Findings

One quarter of mobile search sessions were driven by two or more search motivations. It was especially difficult to distinguish curiosity from time killing in particular user reporting. Multi-dimensional contexts and motivations influenced mobile search behaviors, and among the context dimensions, gender, place, activities they engaged in while searching, task importance, portal, and interpersonal relations (whether accompanied or alone when searching) correlated with each other.

Research limitations

The sample was comprised entirely of college students, so our findings may not generalize to other populations. More participants and longer experimental duration will improve the accuracy and objectivity of the research.

Practical implications

Motivation analysis and search context recognition can help mobile service providers design applications and services for particular mobile contexts and usages.

Originality/value

Most current research focuses on specific contexts, such as studies on place, or other contextual influences on mobile search, and lacks a systematic analysis of mobile search context. Based on analysis of the impact of mobile search motivations and search context on search behaviors, we built a multi-dimensional model of mobile search behaviors.
O bibliotecário atuante em bibliotecas universitárias no Século XXI
Authors: Santa Anna Jorge , Calmon Maria Aparecida de Mesquita
Published: March 2016

A diversidade na oferta de serviços e produtos constitui uma das características mais marcantes das bibliotecas universitárias (BU). Essa diversidade se amplia constantemente, sobretudo com a crescente utilização das novas tecnologias e o acúmulo de informações geradas, o que fez desencadear a necessidade de ampliação das competências e características dos profissionais que atuam nessas unidades de informação. A fim de acompanhar essas mudanças, os bibliotecários precisam adquirir novas competências, adequando-se ao perfil de um profissional inovador, categorizado como Moderno Profissional da Informação (MIP). Assim sendo, este estudo objetiva apresentar as características e competências dos bibliotecários atuantes em BU, relacionando-as ao perfil do MIP. Para tanto, o artigo discute, com base na literatura, o contexto no qual se situam as BUs, bem como as principais atividades prestadas, e as competências necessárias para que os bibliotecários sejam considerados MIP. Por fim, foi realizado um estudo em uma BU, aplicando questionário a 15 bibliotecários com vistas a investigar suas competências. Após análise e comparação entre as competências desses sujeitos com as do MIP, conclui-se que as competências do MIP são praticadas pelos bibliotecários que atuam em BU, sendo necessário, a priori, o investimento na formação continuada. Essa formação é praticada pelos profissionais de diferentes formas, sendo também viabilizada pela unidade de informação, cabendo ao próprio profissional divulgar essa necessidade e desejo constante de aprimoramento, com vistas a consolidar a melhoria contínua dos serviços prestados nessas unidades de informação.
Preservação digital em coleções bibliográficas da biodiversidade: o caso da Biodiversity Heritage Library no Museu Paraense Emílio Goeldi (MPEG)
Authors: Castro Jetur Lima de , Oliveira Alessandra Nunes de
Published: March 2016

Relata a experiência do "Projeto de digitalização e publicação online da coleção de Obras Raras Essenciais em Biodiversidade do Museu Paraense Emílio Goeldi" (MPEG). A iniciativa é da Biodiversity Heritage Library (BHL), cuja finalidade é subsidiar, o fortalecimento e desenvolvimento da infraestrutura de informação e comunicação científica, em biodiversidade e meio ambiente. O objetivo de estudo é mostrar o projeto de digitalização e publicação online da coleção de Obras Raras Essenciais em Biodiversidade do Museu Paraense Emílio Goeldi e estudar o papel da preservação digital no acervo bibliográfico especial, utilizando os critérios de preservação digital e da gestão documental. Permitindo, a construção de um esquema conceitual para agregar e conservar a informação, dando acesso imediato, por meio das redes e fontes de informação, nacionais e internacionais. O percurso metodológico adotado foi realizado, por meio de uma pesquisa exploratória de caráter descritivo, com base na literatura como em livros, periódicos, dissertações, teses e artigos científicos já publicados abordando a temática. Deste modo é analisado as questões mais relevantes no estudo, com relação aos métodos relacionados com a preservação de um acervo bibliográfico em formatos digitais. Neste sentido, a digitalização é aliada à preservação digital na coleção em biodiversidade, e trará enorme contribuição à biblioteca do MPEG, tornando as informações cientificas mais acessíveis, dando continuidade à memória e certificando a absoluta excelência dos suportes digitais, abarcada pelas inovações tecnológicas que remediarão suas perdas futuras.
Initial Description of the Presumed Congenital Zika Syndrome
Authors: Miranda-Filho Demócrito de Barros , Martelli Celina Maria Turchi , Ximenes Ricardo Arraes de Alencar , Araújo Thalia Velho Barreto , Rocha Maria Angela Wanderley , Ramos Regina Coeli Ferreira , Dhalia Rafael , França Rafael Freitas de Oliveira , Marques Júnior Ernesto Torres de Azevedo , Rodrigues Laura Cunha
Published: March 2016

Objectives. To provide an initial description of the congenital syndrome presumably associated with infection by Zika virus compared with other syndromes including congenital infections of established etiologies.

Methods. We provide an overview of a published case series of 35 cases, a clinical series of 104 cases, and published and unpublished reports of clinical and laboratory findings describing cases diagnosed since the beginning of the epidemic of microcephaly in Brazil.

Results. About 60% to 70% of mothers report rash during pregnancy; mainly in the first trimester. Principal features are microcephaly, facial disproportionality, cutis girata, hypertonia/spasticity, hyperreflexia, and irritability; abnormal neuroimages include calcifications, ventriculomegaly, and lissencephaly. Hearing and visual abnormalities may be present.

Conclusions. Preliminary data suggest that severe congenital abnormalities are linked to Zika virus infection. Cases have severe abnormalities, and although sharing many characteristics with congenital abnormalities associated with other viral infections, abnormalities presumably linked to the Zika virus may have distinguishing characteristics. These severe neurologic abnormalities may result in marked mental retardation and motor disabilities for many surviving offspring.

Policy Implications. Affected nations need to prepare to provide complex and costly multidisciplinary care that children diagnosed with this new congenital syndrome will require.
Seismic Airgun Sources: Clarifying the Loudness
Authors: Tulett John R. , Laws Robert M.
Published: March 2016

The metrics that regulators use for assessing seismic exploration and marine life have been reviewed. In particular, the airgun source levels and what they really mean have been clarified, and common pitfalls and misunderstandings of the acoustics have been explained.

The scientific background of basic bioacoustics has been reviewed, including the definitions of the various established metrics. The thresholds for injury and disturbance are explained along with how to calculate them, for example, sound exposure level (SEL) and root mean square (RMS) levels.

The important (and often misunderstood) conceptual difference between the source level, which the airgun array emits, and the received level, which the animal experiences, has been clarified to provide a clear understanding of the acoustics and relationships of the sound levels to avoid further confusion and misunderstanding among the public and the news media.
A Risk-Based Approach to Driving and Journey Management for Land Transport Contractors
Authors: Wiraatmaja G. , Tauriainen M.
Published: March 2016

Despite significant efforts to improve safety, driving continues to be the work activity that poses the highest risk to personnel in relation to injuries and fatalities. Data collected by the International Association of Oil & Gas Producers indicates that contractor activities contribute to more than two-thirds of all driving activities in the upstream oil and gas industry. Therefore, it is essential to focus on improving the effectiveness of land transport contractor driving safety management.

The conventional way that contractor driving safety is managed is to apply the company's own driving standard. In this contracting mode, every contractor, whenever they work for a particular company, is required to follow all the safety requirements stated in the company's standard. Although this may seem to be simple, the reality could be quite different, particularly for an organization that uses many contractors and operates globally.

Managing contractor driving safety can be a complex matter when the number and diversity of the land transport contractors is considered. The complexity increases as the size and scope of the company's operations grows and when the land transport contractors have various levels of maturity in their driving safety programs. For the land transport contractor, difficulties can arise when working for several customers who have different contractual requirements, which all have to be met.

To address these challenges, an oilfield services company has developed a risk-based driving safety management procedure specifically for land transport contractors. The procedure is based on the risk of the driving environment, the type of load and the maturity of the land transport contractors’ own driving safety programs.

This paper presents the oilfield services company's risk-based approach for land transport contractor's driving and journey-management. It describes how the approach has enabled the organization to improve the effectiveness of managing land transport contractors’ driving safety in more than 85 countries.
Implementation of Science-Based Environmental Baseline Techniques for Offshore Oil and Gas Projects
Authors: Lopez-Plana J. O. , Barceló I. , Lastra P. , Andersen T. , Pérez M. , Edghill N. , Cosendey L. C. , Nájera I.
Published: March 2016

The oil and gas industry is moving into offshore territory known for a high degree of sensitivity and complexity. For all operators, a prudent system of managing biodiversity and ecosystem services is quickly becoming a key success factor, but also a key responsibility.

There are many forums for identifying best practices. IPIECA has delineated parts of the process through the "Begin yesterday" and "Locate and assess sensitive areas" principles. CSBI supports the broader goals of innovative and transparent application of the mitigation hierarchy in relation to biodiversity and ecosystem services, while UNEP-WCMC works to improve global data and strengthen business approaches for biodiversity management through the Proteus Partnership.

However, neither global data nor methodologies are standardized. UNEP-WCMC has put a lot of effort into mapping critical marine habitats and has developed an online GIS-viewer, the Ocean Data Viewer. Equally, during 2014 IPIECA presented the Marine Geospatial Bibliography; a knowledge sharing platform collecting and making available information on oil, gas and the environment for industry, science and public. Finally, the CSBI, having identified the weakness of lacking standardization, created a biodiversity data collection work stream that aims to produce a practical guide on what ecological information is needed to sufficiently inform the biodiversity baseline assessment for projects. Different activities within the oil and gas sphere are performed in the marine environment and potential impacts inevitably vary. Standardization within differing contexts is a challenge the industry faces.

This paper will present scientific case studies highlighting the methodologies that can be adapted by the oil and gas industry for baseline and monitoring: recording with hydrophones vocalizing fauna and using underwater acoustics and ROVs for studying benthic communities (multibeam echo sounder, sidescan sonar and subbottom profiler). Furthermore, implemented and tested "good practices" regarding coral reef surveys, deepwater and shallow water baseline methodologies will be shared.
Energy Efficiency: Collecting Experiences from 20 Years of Efforts on The Norwegian Continental Shelf
Authors: Rambech Eric L. , Vandenbussche Valentin , Thylander Emma Karlström , Lindersen Peter J. , Blindheim Hildegunn T.
Published: March 2016

Energy efficiency constitutes a key solution for controlling and reducing greenhouse gas emissions in the oil and gas industry. The Norwegian Oil and Gas Association therefore established a joint industry project with the aim to set best practice guidance on energy management and efficiency. The project was built around the goal of facilitating experience-exchange and documenting best practice among oil and gas operators in Norway. The work consisted of five key elements. Firstly, an analysis provided an overview of the industry's maturity within energy management. Secondly, a set of company-specific meetings helped understanding each companies situation, and raising awareness internally on energy efficiency initiatives. Thirdly, workshops were organised, gathering 14 operators in Norway to facilitate experience exchange on energy management and energy efficiency opportunities. Fourthly, guidelines for implementing energy management in operations were then established based on input collected, and on practices from other industries. Fifthly, all the results are documented on an internet website available to the operators.

The project provides a unique opportunity for cooperation. Project results indicate that operators have varying degrees of maturity and in-house practice with regards to energy management. Actions to improve energy efficiency also vary depending on companies, assets and resources, which provides a foundation for cross-company learning. In addition, the consultant has complemented industry experience with best practice from other industries worldwide. Furthermore, it was found that the forums for experience exchange on energy efficiency have been a key enabler for progress. It has also allowed the industry to jointly document and communicate efforts. Through sharing knowledge, the project has established best practices to seize opportunities and to help overcome challenges linked to implementing energy management and energy efficiency in the industry.

Implementation of energy management in existing organisations constitute a change in practice. In order to be successful, this process requires support throughout the organisation, and is most effective when integrated with pre-existing routines. The project constitutes a step-up for the whole industry in its efforts towards a more efficient production. This paper provides further elements for successful implementation of energy management in the oil and gas industry.
An alternative approach for municipal wastewater management: Technology options for small and medium towns
Authors: Nath K. J. , Sengupta A. K.
Published: March 2016

In India, and most other developing countries of Asia and Africa, the urban, peri-urban and rural communities suffer from serious lack of sustainable wastewater and sanitation facilities. Unlike in the developed countries, the standard practice of human excreta and wastewater disposal system (sewerage) is not functional in most urban communities. The Western model sewerage system is largely unaffordable for most communities. The problem is extremely serious and critical, in small and medium towns. The septic tank system, tried in many urban localities, also faces serious problems in operation and maintenance. This paper reviews the Indian scenario in respect of urban wastewater and sanitation management, with particular reference to the problems of small and medium towns, and describes an alternative approach for sustainable human excreta and wastewater disposal systems that could be affordable and sustainable for small and medium towns in India.
Multi-factor evaluation for the water yield properties of coal floor aquifers, based on GIS
Authors: Li Bo , Wu Qiang , Chen Yulong , Wang Ganlu , Xu Lei
Published: March 2016

Groundwater inrush in mines directly threatens safe coal production. Aquifer yield plays a crucial role during water inrush. Significant accidents occur in areas where aquifer yields are strong. The yield of an aquifer is influenced by many things and, in this study, five for which data are easily acquired were selected as evaluation indices for coal-seam floor aquifer yield. They comprise specific yield, permeability, drilling fluid consumption, aquifer thickness, and fault and fold distribution. Based on these indices, a comprehensive model for evaluating water yield was constructed. Using the Ordovician limestone aquifer below the coal floor of Danhou coal mine, Hebei province, China, as an example, index data relating to aquifer yield were collected and the index weight determined. A geographic information system was used to prepare a thematic map for each driving factor and, subsequently, to superimpose them. Comprehensive water yield evaluation indexes were obtained and, finally, a zonal map of different water yield properties was developed for the research area.
Wastewater treatment challenges faced by the petrochemical and refinery industry, and opportunities for water reuse
Authors: Zaffaroni C. , Daigger G. , Nicol P. , Lee T. W.
Published: March 2016

Industrial wastewater differs from municipal wastewater. The limits for treated effluent discharge and targets for re-use are typically the same, and derived from the best available technology for municipal wastewater treatment. The main treatment unitary processes are also the same; although proper adaptation to specific, different, industrial wastewater streams is needed. This paper provides some examples of the challenges presented by specific wastewater sources (high total dissolved solids, high temperature, spent caustic, etc.), lack of previous similar experience – e.g., using membrane bioreactors for refinery wastewaters, and/or absorption chillers, and plate and frame heat exchangers) or to legislation protecting sensitive environments (limits on total nitrogen or soluble metals). The methods by which these were faced and overcome to achieve treatment and/or re-use standards are described. General water cycle optimization issues around industrial facilities with appropriate use of existing wastewater treatment units are also discussed, as well as selecting between treated municipal and industrial effluents as sources for water re-use.
Performance of an expanded granular sludge bed (EGSB) reactor coupled with anoxic and aerobic bioreactors for treating poultry slaughterhouse wastewater
Authors: Basitere M. , Williams Y. , Sheldon M. S. , Ntwampe S. K. O. , De Jager D. , Dlangamandla C.
Published: March 2016

Generally, slaughterhouses have the largest consumption of fresh water and thus generate large quantities of high strength wastewater, which can be treated successfully using low cost biological treatment processes. In this study, the feasibility of using an expanded granular sludge bed (EGSB) anaerobic reactor coupled with anoxic and aerobic bioreactors for the treatment of poultry slaughterhouse wastewater was investigated. The poultry slaughterhouse was characterized by high chemical oxygen demand (COD), 2 to 6 g/L, with average biological oxygen demand of 2.4 g/L and average fats, oil and grease (FOG) being 0.55 g/L. A continuous EGSB anaerobic reactor was operated for 26 days at different hydraulic retention times (HRT), i.e. 7, 4, 3 days, and organic loading rates (OLR) of 0.5, 0.7 and 1.0 g COD/L.day, respectively, to assess the bioremediation of the poultry slaughterhouse wastewater. The average COD removal from the EGSB was 40%, 57% and 55% at the different OLR and HRT assessed. At high OLR of 1.0 g COD/L.day, the overall COD removal from the system (EGSB-anoxic/aerobic) averaged 65%. The system experienced periodical sludge washout during high FOG and suspended solids loading. It was concluded that the EGSB system requires a dissolved air flotation system, for FOG/suspended solid reduction, as the performance of the overall system was observed to deteriorate over time due to the presence of a high quantity of FOG including suspended solids.
Recycled water – lessons from Australia on dealing with risk and uncertainty
Authors: Turner A. , Mukheibir P. , Mitchell C. , Chong J. , Retamal M. , Murta J. , Carrard N. , Delaney C.
Published: March 2016

Much can be learned from the numerous water recycling schemes currently in operation in Australia, especially with respect to making investment decisions based on uncertain assumptions. This paper illustrates through a number of case studies, that by considering the contextual and project related risks, a range of business related risks become apparent. Shifts in the contextual landscape and the various players’ objectives can occur over the life of a project, often leading to unforeseen risk and uncertainty. Through a thorough consideration of the potential risks presented in this paper, proponents as well as owners and managers might make better recycled water investment decisions, enhancing the benefits and minimizing the costs of water recycling schemes. This paper presents an overview and discussion of seven key factors to consider when planning a recycling scheme.
Integrated urban design and open storm drainage in our urban environments: merging drainage techniques into our city's urban spaces
Authors: Mottaghi Misagh , Aspegren Henrik , Jönsson Karin
Published: March 2016

Flooding is the most common natural hazard in Europe. Cities cannot rely only on underground solutions which are expensive and inflexible. In order to reduce the negative impacts of flood, open and surface solutions play a key role in the efficiency of urban drainage systems. Utilizing the earth's surface as part of sustainable water infrastructure, also as powerful element for creating the space, adds multiple values to our urban environments. This article suggests a framework to increase the likelihood of turning the idea of flood resilient city to a best practice. The paper is clarifying the design principles. The target is turning a space to a functional place by applying drainage techniques in urban design, which requires robust local integration between the urban space and technical solutions. The study of storm water management in the Swedish and Dutch contexts was an important base for this formulation. Considering the important share of urban design in urban transition success, the paper is focusing on categorizing the required steps of flood resilient urban design.
Novel technological solution for oil decontamination of bottom sediments
Authors: Vorobiev Danil S. , Frank Yulia A. , Noskov Yury A. , Merzlyakov Oleg E. , Kulizhskiy Sergey P.
Published: March 2016

The paper describes a complex novel airlift plant for the simultaneous cleaning of water reservoir bottom sediments and water. The plant's design was tested in a model. Chemical analysis of the bottom sediments after experimental cleaning revealed a total oil content of 0.40–0.45 g kg−1, while the estimated initial oil content was around 16 g kg−1. This indicates a 35.5–40.0 times decrease in oil content.
Comparative analysis of water–pipe network deterioration–case study
Authors: Kutyłowska Małgorzata , Orłowska-Szostak Maria
Published: March 2016

The paper presents a comparative analysis of water-supply network deterioration in three Polish cities. The comparison was made on the basis of operating data (from the period 2007 to 2012) received from water utilities. The comparison is necessary to determine whether and to what extent water utilities should improve the technical condition of their water-supply networks. On average in cities A, B and C, failure rates λ (fail km−1 a−1) of water mains, distribution pipes and house connections were 0.20, 0.24 and 0.53; 0.17, 0.32 and 0.50; and 0.01, 0.48 and 1.63, respectively. The failure rates of the main and distribution conduits were higher in winter than summer, due to the weather conditions and the pipes' shallow depth. Smaller diameter pipes were more vulnerable. One city is exposed to mining exploitation and most cracking observed on the main and distribution pipelines arose from this. As the literature and these investigations indicate, the technical condition of water supply systems in Poland is still improving and rates of deterioration decreasing.
Groundwater monitoring plan in the province of San Luis
Authors: Durán Hugo Guzman , Garbero Gabriel
Published: March 2016

In response to a larger demand from the productive sector of information about specific data such as availability and quality of water in the province, San Luis Agua launched the monitoring project, which obtains data from 150 spots strategically located. Since 2013, and with the participation of productive sector, investors and users, San Luis Agua S.E. carries on the first stage of the Telemetric Monitoring Plan in real time through the installation of 59 stations, located near the town of Quines. The final project will have the measurement of hydro meteorological parameters in real time tending to the making of an Integral Hydric Balance, designed for the needs of users and planning, and to improve the use of the water available in the province. The data collected will be reported to a master station, located in the offices of San Luis Agua adn will be available for everybody
Enlargement of Hardn-Hofsteig treatment plant from 170,000 PE to 270,000 PE in the existing footprint
Authors: Radetic B. , Gasser M. , Winkler S. , Matsché N.
Published: March 2016

With the continuous increase in environmental requirements and regulations for wastewater treatment a lot of wastewater treatment plants in Austria had to be extended. Extension of the plant requires in general an additional area, which is not always available. This study shows the extension of the WWTP Hard Hofsteig and doubling its capacity by using the Hybrid concept, which is a special two stage activated sludge process for extensive nutrient removal. The plant was extended from 170,000 PE to 270,000 PE without changing the footprint of the plant and the extension costs could be kept very low. Operational data shows that by operating the plant in the two stage Hybrid mode the energy balance of the plant can be improved.
A study of the barrier properties of polyethylene coated with a nanocellulose/magnetite composite film
Authors: Djordjevic Nenad , Marinkovic Aleksandar , Nikolic Jasmina , Drmanic Sasa , Rancic Milica , Brkovic Danijela , Uskokovic Petar
Published: March 2016

The morphological, thermal and barrier properties of low-density
polyethylene/polycaprolactone-modified nanocellulose hybrid materials were
investigated in this paper. Nanonocelulose/magnetite (NC-Fe3O4) nanocomposite
and maleic acid functionalized NC/magnetite (NCMA-Fe3O4) nanocomposite were
prepared and used as filler at various concentrations (5, 10 and 15 wt. %) in
polycaprolactone (PCL) layer. PE was coated with PCL/NC/magnetite layer. The
addition of the filler did not unfavorably affect the inherent properties of
the polymer, especially its barrier properties. Oxygen permeation
measurements show that the oxygen barrier properties of magnetite enriched
PCL film were improved due to chemical activity of added material. The
highest level of barrier capacity was observed for PE samples coated with PCL
based composite with NCMA-Fe3O4 micro/-nanofiller, which implies the
significant contribution of nanocellulose surface modification with maleic
anhydride residue to improved barrier properties.