bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Paroxetine in social anxiety disorder: a randomized placebo‐controlled study
Authors: Allgulander C.
Published: November 2007

Allgulander C. Paroxetine in social anxiety disorder: a randomized placebo‐controlled study. Acta Psychiatr Scand 1999: 100: 193–198. © Munksgaard 1999.

Objective: The aim of this study was to evaluate the utility of paroxetine treatment in social anxiety disorder.

Method: Previously undiagnosed and untreated subjects with social anxiety disorder (generalized social phobia) were selected from among responders to a newspaper advertisement. They were randomized to double‐blind treatment with paroxetine 20–50 mg daily or placebo for 3 months. Outcome measures were self‐rated social anxiety and avoidance behaviour, and clinician‐rated global assessment of improvement.

Results: Significant differences in efficacy between treatments (intent‐to‐treat analysis: 44 subjects on paroxetine and 48 subjects on placebo) were noted after 4–6 weeks, increasing through the treatment period in the paroxetine group. Nine subjects on paroxetine and 3 subjects on placebo discontinued the treatment due to adverse events. Sexual side‐effects were noted by 18 subjects on paroxetine and 4 subjects on placebo.

Conclusion: Paroxetine was effective in alleviating symptoms and avoidance behaviour in social anxiety disorder.
Attempted suicide: repetition and survival findings of a follow‐up study
Authors: Tejedor M. C. , Diaz A. , Castillón J. J. , Pericay J. M.
Published: November 2007

Tejedor MC, Díaz A, Castillón JJ, Pericay JM. Attempted suicide: repetition and survival— findings of a follow‐up study. Acta Psychiatr Scand 1999: 100: 205–211. © Munksgaard 1999.

Objective: This was a prospective follow‐up study of suicidal patients to assess the influence over time of different risk factors, whether on completed suicides or reattempts. Survival analysis makes it possible to weigh the influence of variables that increase or decrease a patient's life span or that make reattempts less likely.

Method: A cohort of 150 patients admitted to a psychiatric department after a suicide attempt was followed up over 10 years. The study protocol used standardized criteria, and periodic controls were carried out in all patients.

Results: In total, 12% of patients completed suicide, 10% died from natural causes, 75% were still alive and 25% reattempted. In the survival analysis the risk for completed suicide or reattempting was highest during the first 2 years after the index attempt admission. Global Assessment of Functioning (GAF) was the factor that most increased survival time. The number of previous attempts decreased survival time and increased the risk of reattempts.

Conclusion: Since suicidal risk varied over time, intensifying contact with patients during periods of psychopathological change or life events could prolong their survival.
Continuity of care and readmission in two service systems: a comparative Victorian and Groningen case‐register study
Authors: Sytema S. , Burgess P.
Published: November 2007

Sytema S, Burgess P. Continuity of care and readmission in two service systems: a comparative Victorian and Groningen case‐register study. Acta Psychiatr Scand 1999: 100: 212–219. © Munksgaard 1999.

Objective: We compared service consumption, continuity of care and risk of readmission in a record linkage follow‐up study of cohorts of patients with schizophrenia and related disorders in Victoria (Australia) and in Groningen (The Netherlands). These areas are interesting to compare because mental health care is in a different stage of deinstitutionaliza‐tion. More beds are available in Groningen and more community resources are available in Victoria.

Method: The cohorts were followed for 4 years, since discharge from in‐patient services using record linkage data available in the psychiatric case‐registers in both areas. Survival analysis was used to study continuity of care and risk of readmission.

Results: Available indicators showed a higher level of continuity of care in Victoria. While the relative risk of readmission was the same in both areas and not affected by aftercare contact after discharge, the number of days spent in hospital was much higher in the Groningen register area.

Conclusion: These findings provide further support for earlier reports that the risk of readmission is predominantly affected by attributes of mental illness. However, the duration of admissions, is strongly affected by service system variables, including the provision of continuity of care.
The Nordic Comparative Study on Sectorized Psychiatry–length of in‐patient stay
Authors: øiesvold T. , Saarento O. , Sytema S. , Christiansen L. , Göstas G. , Lönnerberg O. , Muus S. , Sandlund M. , Hansson L.
Published: November 2007

øiesvold T, Saarento O, Sytema S, Christiansen L, Göstas G, Lönnerberg O, Muus S, Sandlund M, Hansson L. The Nordic Comparative Study on Sectorized Psychiatry — length of in‐patient stay. Acta Psychiatr Scand 1999: 100: 220–228. © Munksgaard 1999.

Objective: Length of stay (LOS) of ‘first’ in‐patient episodes was investigated in this study, which is part of the Nordic Comparative Study on Sectorized Psychiatry.

Method: A total of 837 consecutive ‘new’ patients (not in contact with the psychiatric services for at least 18 months) admitted as in‐patients during a period of 1 year to seven psychiatric hospitals in four Nordic countries were included.

Results: Survival analyses showed considerable differences in LOS between the hospitals, and the factors analysed in this study could not explain this variance. Older age, being female, having no children at home, psychosis, planned admission and out‐patient contacts were all associated with increased LOS.

Conclusion: Stratifying on gender, diagnostic group and hospital revealed a general pattern of associations except for age.
Recovery from episodes during the course of affective disorder: a case‐register study
Authors: Kessing L. V. , Mottensen P. B.
Published: November 2007

Objective

The aim of the study was to investigate whether the duration of treated episodes changes during the course of unipolar and bipolar affective disorder.

Method

The rate of recovery from successive hospitalized episodes was estimated with survival analyses in a case‐register study including all hospital admissions with primary affective disorder in Denmark during the period 1971–1993.

Results

A total of 9174 patients with recurrent episodes were followed from their first admission. The rate of recovery from hospitalized episodes did not change with the number of episodes in unipolar or bipolar disorder. Furthermore, the rate of recovery was constant across episodes, regardless of the combination of age, gender and type of disorder. Initially in the course of the illness, the rate was a little faster for bipolar than for unipolar patients, but later in the course of the illness the rate of recovery was the same for the two disorders.

Conclusion

It is concluded that, in modern treatment settings, the duration of affective episodes appears to be stable during the course of unipolar and bipolar disorder.
Validation of the Chinese‐Cantonese version of the Hospital Anxiety and Depression Scale and comparison with the Hamilton Rating Scale of Depression
Authors: Leung C. M. , Wing Y. K. , Kwong P. K. , Shum A. Lo.K.
Published: November 2007

Objective

The aim of this study was to validate the Chinese‐Cantonese version of the Hospital Anxiety and Depression Scale (HADS) and to compare it with the Hamilton Rating Scale of Depression (HRSD) as a screening tool for depressive disorders in general hospital in‐patients.

Method

The Chinese‐Cantonese version of the HADS was administered to general hospital in‐patients seen on a consultation basis, and psychiatric diagnoses were made according to DSM‐111‐R. The subjects were further rated independently with the HRSD.

Results

The Chinese‐Cantonese version of the HADS was found to have good internal consistency and external validity, with favourable sensitivity and specificity for screening for psychiatric disorders. However, its performance was marginally inferior to that of the HRSD. The scale also performed poorly in identifying major depression.

Conclusion

The HADS has limitations with regard to identification of depressive disorders. However, despite its shortcomings, it remains one of the best paper‐and‐pencil tests for screening psychiatric disorders in the medically ill.
Neonatal hyperbilirubinaemia — a vulnerabilitv factor for mental disorder?
Authors: Dalman C. , Cullberg J.
Published: November 2007

Objective

Various studies have shown an association between obstetric complications and psychiatric illness. There is a lack of specific aetiological explanations. A possible mechanism contributing to cerebral vulnerability is neonatal hyperbilirubinaemia (NHB).

Method

A total of 509 children with NHB (bilirubin > 15 mg %) were compared with the same number of controls (matched for gender, place of residence, and date and place of birth) with respect to in‐patient psychiatric care during 1971–1993.

Results

A significantly greater number of individuals in the NHB group received in‐patient psychiatric care than in the control group (OR, 2.5; 95% CI, 1.1–5.5). After exclusion of infants with associated obstetric risk factors, the significantly increased risk for in‐patient psychiatric care still remained among the children with NHB (OR, 13.4; 95% CT, 1.6–110.1).

Conclusion

NHB could be a factor underlying subsequent development of mental ill‐health, but larger samples are needed to obtain a more reliable assessment.
Can excellent school performance be a precursor of schizophrenia? A 28‐year follow‐up in the Northern Finland 1966 birth cohort
Authors: Isohanni I. , Jäwelin M‐R. , Jones P. , Jokelainen J. , Isohanni M.
Published: November 2007

Isohanni I, Järvelin M‐R, Jones P, Jokelainen J, Isohanni M. Can excellent school performance be a precursor of schizophrenia? A 28‐year follow‐up in the Northern Finland 1966 birth cohort. Acta Psychiatrica Scand 1999:100: 17–26. © Munksgaard 1999.

Objective: Poor scholastic performance is known to pre‐date adult schizophrenia. We studied the 1966 North Finland general population birth cohort (n= 11017) in order to determine whether excellent school performance was a risk or protective factor.

Method: Data on school marks at the age of 16 years were linked to data on psychiatric morbidity. In total, 89 subjects (58 boys) developed DSM‐III‐R schizophrenia between the ages of 16 and 28 years.

Results: Six (11%) of the pre‐schizophrenic boys (6/54) had excellent mean school marks, compared to only 3% (166/5245) of the comparison group (OR 3.8; 95% CI 1.6–9.3, adjusted for parental social class, place of residence and birth order).

Conclusion: These results may be a chance phenomenon and require replication. However, adult schizophrenia may be linked to excellent school performance. This result may be relevant both to the preservation of schizophrenia in the population, and to mechanisms of developing schizophrenia.
Can winter depression be prevented by Ginkgo biloba extract? A placebo‐controlled trial
Authors: Lingærde O. , Fφreland A. R. , Magnusson A.
Published: November 2007

Lingjærde O, Fφreland AR, Magnusson A. Can winter depression be prevented by Ginkgo biloba extract? A placebo‐controlled trial. Acta Psychiatr Scand 1999: 100: 62–66. © Munksgaard 1999.

Objective: The aim was to test the hypothesis that the Ginkgo biloba extract PN246, in tablet form (brand name Bio‐Biloba), may prevent the symptoms of winter depression (WD) in patients with seasonal affective disorder (SAD).

Method A total of 27 SAD patients were randomized to receive double‐blind placebo or Bio‐Biloba for 10 weeks or until they developed symptoms of WD, starting in a symptom‐free phasf about 1 month before expected WD symptoms. An extended Montgomery‐åsberg Depression Rating Scale was completed before and immediately after termination of medication. The patients also self‐rated some key symptoms on a visual analogue scale every 2 weeks during the trial.

Results: There were no significant differences between the treatment groups in the number of patients who developed treatment‐requiring WD, or in the development of single key symptoms during the trial.

Conclusion: We did not find that Ginkgo biloba was able to prevent the development of the symptoms of winter depression.
Surface interactions of C3 radicals during the deposition of fluorocarbon and hydrocarbon films
Authors: Liu Dongping , Fisher Ellen R.
Published: November 2007

The gas-phase density and surface interactions of the carbon trimer C3 have been examined in fluorocarbon and hydrocarbon plasmas. The Πu1-Σg+1 fluorescence excitation spectra and relative gas-phase densities of C3 radicals have been collected using laser-induced fluorescence (LIF) spectroscopy. The relative C3 density increases significantly with CH2F2 in the feed, indicating that C3 is primarily produced via decomposing CH2F2 and chemical reactions in the gas phase. In addition, the surface reactivity R of C3 has been measured during fluorocarbon and hydrocarbon film depositions using C3F8∕CH2F2 and CH4∕CH2F2 13.56 MHz rf plasmas. The C3 radicals were characterized using our LIF-based imaging of radicals interacting with surfaces technique. R values for C3 range from 0.10 to 0.38, depending on plasma conditions, but show no clear dependence on the gas mixture or the plasma conditions used. X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy measurements of the films deposited in these systems provide additional evidence that suggests that C3 carbon clusters may be contributing to the formation of more cross-linked films.
Phase configuration, nanostructure evolution, and mechanical properties of unbalanced magnetron-sputtered Ti-Cx-Ny thin films
Authors: Lu Y. H. , Shen Y. G. , Zhou Z. F. , Li K. Y.
Published: November 2007

Ti-C x -N y thin films with different amounts of C incorporated into TiN0.87 were deposited on Si(100) substrates at 500 °C by reactive unbalanced dc magnetron sputtering. Their phase configuration, nanostructure, and mechanical behavior were investigated by x-ray diffraction (XRD), x-ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS), high-resolution transmission electron microscopy (HRTEM), and microindentation measurements. The results indicated that the atomic ratio of (C+N)/Ti played a crucial role in phase configuration, nanostructure evolution, and mechanical behavior. When the ratio was less than one, a nanocrystalline (nc-) Ti(C,N) solid solution was formed by dissolution of C into the TiN lattice. Both microhardness and residual compressive stress values increased with an increase of C content. When the C reached saturation, precipitation of small amounts of sp2 amorphous (a-) phase appeared with more C incorporation. Further increase of C content (up to ∼19 at. % C) made the amorphous phase fully wet nanocrystallites, which resulted in the formation of nanocomposite thin films of ∼5 nm nc-Ti(C,N) nanocrystallites separated by an ∼0.5 nm amorphous phase comprised mainly of sp2 disordered C, graphite, and minor CNx. Thicker amorphous matrices and smaller sized grains followed when C content was further increased. The formation of nanocomposite structure greatly decreased both hardness and residual stress values of thin films. A hardness maximum was believed to be obtained at nc-Ti(C,N) solid solution containing the maximum C amount. Enhancement of the hardness value was attributed to solid solution effect and high residual stress value.
Temperature programed desorption of C2H4 from pure and graphite-covered Pt(111)
Authors: Vermang B. , Juel M. , Raaen S.
Published: November 2007

Ethylene adsorption on Pt(111) at 95K was studied by temperature programed desorption (TPD), low energy electron diffraction (LEED), and x-ray photoelectron spectroscopy. Ethylene desorbs reversibly at 112K and irreversibly at 255 and 280K. It is generally accepted that annealing of ethylene adsorbed on Pt(111) to 300K results in a dehydrogenation to ethylidyne through an ethylidene intermediate. This was observed by a hydrogen desorption peak at 300K. Also, hydrogenation of the adsorbed ethylene was observed by a small ethane desorption peak at 300K. Upon heating to 700K, the ethylidyne species will further dehydrogenate to carbidic carbon species with hydrogen desorption peaks at 460 and 640K. If the carbidic species is heated to higher temperatures (up to 1000K), it will further dehydrogenate and form graphitic islands which will accumulate by Ostwald ripening in larger islands at the step edges of the surface. After annealing the sample to 1000K, a statistically distributed 8×8 superstructure of these graphite islands is achieved, as interpreted from a ring pattern in the LEED data. The TPD results indicate that ethylene adsorption on Pt(111) results in the formation of graphitic islands upon heating to 1000K, contrary to previous conjectures of formation of a full graphite monolayer.
Effect of growth conditions on the structure and properties of tungsten films prepared using a thermal evaporation process
Authors: Hsieh Chin-Tang , Ting Jyh-Ming
Published: November 2007

We report the fabrication and characterization of tungsten films obtained using a thermal evaporation method. Single phase α-tungsten films were obtained at higher substrate temperatures (520–680°C) than the single phase β-tungsten films (180–220°C). X-ray spectra show that both the α-tungsten films and the β-tungsten films are polycrystalline having unusual preferred (200) and (321) orientations, respectively. Poor adhesion was observed when the films were deposited on bare silicon substrate. The adhesion is greatly improved by the introduction of a carbon layer between the film and the substrate. The field emission properties of the α-tungsten films and the β-tungsten films were also examined. The α-tungsten films and β-tungsten films exhibit turn-on fields at 1.3 and 2.8V∕μm, respectively. Current densities in the order of 10−1mA∕cm2 were observed. These field emission properties are believed to be better or much better than that of both tungsten nanowires and nanorods. The relation between the field emission properties and the film structures is discussed.
High sensitivity permeation measurement system for “ultrabarrier” thin films
Authors: Zhang Xiao Dong , Lewis Jay S. , Wolter Scott D. , Parker Charles B. , Glass Jeffrey T.
Published: November 2007

The authors demonstrate a new technique for high sensitivity gas permeation measurements by integrating mass spectrometry with programed accumulation, detection, and evacuation of permeant. After passing through the film of interest, the gas permeant is captured and accumulated in an isolated ultrahigh vacuum (UHV) volume. The permeant is then allowed to enter an adjacent residual gas analyzer (RGA) and the resulting partial pressure increase is correlated with the steady state permeation rate. Calibrated results are given for helium and argon permeation through polymer films. The measured detection limits of the system are 1.8×10−4cm3∕m2day for helium and 2.5×10−4cm3∕m2day for argon. Both values are several orders of magnitude lower than what is available from commercial instruments or similar RGA-based instruments. Potential applications of this technique include measurement of oxygen and water vapor permeation with sensitivities required for assessment of ultrabarrier coatings.
Real-time monitoring of successive sparks in high-density plasma chambers
Authors: Sato Michio , Ohtake Hiroto , Suzuki Koichi , Samukawa Seiji
Published: November 2007

Successive sparks in high-density plasma were analyzed using various real-time monitoring systems, such as electromagnetic field sensors and on-wafer sensors. Electron density decreases at the moment the sparking occurs because a large number of electrons flow to the chamber wall and the wafer surface. Due to the potential fluctuation of the plasma, other sparks occur successively during recovery to the stable plasma. The successive sparks sometimes continue for a few milliseconds. Based on these findings, the authors found that electromagnetic field sensors and on-wafer sensors are very effective tools for real-time monitoring of successive sparks.
Understanding tin plasmas in vacuum: A new approach to tin whisker risk assessment
Authors: Mason M. S. , Eng G.
Published: November 2007

This study examines the mechanisms governing sustained tin plasma formation in vacuum. The authors have experimentally demonstrated that sustained tin plasmas can form in vacuum at dc power supply voltages as low as 4V, and present a qualitative model for the observed voltage and current signatures associated with tin plasma formation. Engineering estimates were developed to help quantify tin whisker risk as a function of power supply voltage. Implications for space applications are also discussed.
GPS RECEIVERS TIMING DATA PROCESSING USING NEURAL NETWORKS: OPTIMAL ESTIMATION AND ERRORS MODELING
Authors: MOSAVI M. R.
Published: November 2007

The Global Positioning System (GPS) is a network of satellites, whose original purpose was to provide accurate navigation, guidance, and time transfer to military users. The past decade has also seen rapid concurrent growth in civilian GPS applications, including farming, mining, surveying, marine, and outdoor recreation. One of the most significant of these civilian applications is commercial aviation. A stand-alone civilian user enjoys an accuracy of 100 meters and 300 nanoseconds, 25 meters and 200 nanoseconds, before and after Selective Availability (SA) was turned off. In some applications, high accuracy is required. In this paper, five Neural Networks (NNs) are proposed for acceptable noise reduction of GPS receivers timing data. The paper uses from an actual data collection for evaluating the performance of the methods. An experimental test setup is designed and implemented for this purpose. The obtained experimental results from a Coarse Acquisition (C/A)-code single-frequency GPS receiver strongly support the potential of methods to give high accurate timing. Quality of the obtained results is very good, so that GPS timing RMS error reduce to less than 120 and 40 nanoseconds, with and without SA.
NEW CRITERIA OF ALMOST PERIODIC SOLUTION FOR BAM NEURAL NETWORKS WITH DELAYS AND IMPULSIVE EFFECTS
Authors: CHEN JUN , CUI BAOTONG , JI YAN
Published: November 2007

This paper presents some sufficient conditions for the existence and global exponential stability of the almost periodic solution for impulsive bi-directional associative memory neural networks with time-varying delays by using Lyapunov functional and Gronwall-Bellmans inequality technique. Comparing with known literatures, the results of this paper are new and they complement previously known results.
ASYMPTOTIC STABILITY OF DELAY-DIFFERENCE SYSTEM OF HOPFIELD NEURAL NETWORKS VIA MATRIX INEQUALITIES AND APPLICATION
Authors: RATCHAGIT KREANGKRI
Published: November 2007

In this paper, we derive a sufficient condition for asymptotic stability of the zero solution of delay-difference system of Hopfield neural networks in terms of certain matrix inequalities by using a discrete version of the Lyapunov second method. The result is applied to obtain new asymptotic stability condition for some class of delay-difference system such as delay-difference system of Hopfield neural networks with multiple delays in terms of certain matrix inequalities. Our results can be well suited for computational purposes.
PHOTOLUMINESCENCE OF Si-RICH SiNx FILMS DEPOSITED BY LPCVD UNDER DIFFERENT CONDITIONS
Authors: WANG XIAOBO , LIU YUZHEN , CHEN DAPENG , DONG LIJUN , CHEN CHAO
Published: November 2007

The silicon-rich silicon-nitride thin films deposited by low pressure chemical vapor deposition at 800° C ~950° C , using dichlorosilane and ammonia as precursors, have the mosaic structure of crystallized silicon nanoclusters embedded in amorphous silicon nitride matrix, showing visible photoluminescence (PL) emission at room temperature with one to five separate peaks. The microstructures of the films change with the deposition temperatures and flux ratios of dichlorosilane to ammonia, which causes changes in the PL spectra of the films. In this paper, we report the experimental results and try to explain it with our gap states model.
Quantitative hydrogeological studies of the Treviso alluvial plain, NE Italy
Authors: Vorlicek Pier Andrea , Antonelli Renzo , Fabbri Paolo , Rausch Randolf
Published: November 2007

The alluvial plain of Treviso (NE Italy) is one of the most important aquifers in the VenetoRegion. Numerous hydrogeological studies of this unconfined groundwater system of the Venetian Plain provided qualitative and semi-quantitative data for its structural and hydrodynamic assessment. The unconfined aquifer changes from high plain southwards to multi-layered confined or semi-confined aquifers. The transition zone corresponds to a band 2–5 km wide where characteristic plain springs emerge with maximum discharge along a line known as the
fontanili
line. Important groundwater resources are exploited by widespread industry and agriculture, and also for public water supply including some large towns outside of study area. In recent years some test sites at which the knowledge of hydrodynamic parameters of the aquifer were improved, have been established in the study area. These, together with already available data (geometry, boundary conditions, recharge-discharge process, flow nets) allowed a water balance and a 2-D finite difference groundwater flow model to be constructed. A first calibration gave reasonable results. This flow model could be developed further to provide a tool for managing groundwaterresources including chemical water quality whencombined with chemical transport models.
The vertical variations of hydrocarbon pollutants and organochlorine pesticide residues in a sediment core in Lake Taihu, East China
Authors: Peng Xianzhi , Zhang Gan , Zheng Leping , Mai Bixian , Zeng Shiwen
Published: November 2007

A sedimentary core in Wulihu Bay in Lake Taihu, the third largest freshwater lake in China, was analysed to delineate the vertical variation of alkanes, polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbon compounds (PAHs) and organochlorine pesticide (OCP) residues. The measured PAH compounds are the 16 US Environmental Protection Agency (US EPA) priority contaminants. The distribution patterns of normal alkanes indicate that they originate mainly from terrestrial inputs and autochthonous organisms as well as petroleum residues. Total PAH levels are mainly in the range of 698–962 ng/g dry weight with 4-ring compounds dominant. Twenty organochlorine pesticides were quantitatively determined, of which α- HCH, β- HCH, p,p'-DDT and its degradation product p,p'-DDD and Dieldrin were dominant. Total organochlorine pesticides, HCH compounds and DDT compounds were in the range of 14–104 ng/g, 3.0–10.4 ng/g and 0.65–38 ng/g dry weight, respectively. The sum of DDT and HCH compounds represents 30–47% of total pesticides residues. Total OCP residues, DDT compounds and HCH compounds reach peak concentrations at the depth of 2–4 cm, which may be related to the serious flooding in the Yangzi River in 1998.Their sharp drop in the 0–2 cm interval may be due to the comprehensive control and treatment of pollution in Lake Taihu drainage area implemented by the Chinese Government since 1998.
Using attic dust and soil for the separation of anthropogenicand geogenic elemental distributions in an old metallurgic area (Celje, Slovenia)
Authors: Sajn Robert
Published: November 2007

The objective of this work is the study of the distribution of chemical elements in attic dust and topsoil for the identification of anthropogenic (man-made) and geogenic (natural) element sources in an old metallurgic area on a local scale. At 99 sites samples of attic dust and soil (0–5 cm depth) were collected in 90 km
2
of the Celje area. Analysis for 42 chemical elements was performed. The geochemical properties of attic dust samples were compared to soils and evaluated in terms of their elemental contents and elemental associations. Based on a comparison of statistical parameters, spatial distribution of particular elements and results of cluster and factor analysis, one natural and three anthropogenic geochemical associations were identified. The natural geochemical association (Al–Ce–K–La–Li–Rb–Sc–Th) is influenced mainly by lithology. The anthropogenic associations are the result of zinc and sulphuric acid production (Ag–As–Cd–Cu–Hg–Mo–Pb–S–Sb–Zn) and iron metallurgy (Co–Cr–Fe–Mn–Ni) in the past. The third anthropogenic association (Nb–Ti) is the result of titanium oxide production which is still in progress.

This study shows that by comparing the geochemical properties of attic dust and topsoil, it is possible to distinguish the natural from anthropogenic element sources. The attic dust proved also to be a very useful sampling medium for local-scale studies.
Multi-metal contaminated stream sediment in the Mansfeld mining district: metal provenance and source detection
Authors: Schreck Peter , Schubert Michael , Freyer Klaus , Treutler Hanns-Christian , Weiss Holger
Published: November 2007

In metal mining districts, element and radionuclide patterns in contaminated stream sediment can be used as tracers to detect and track the sources of pollution, and to distinguish geogenic from anthropogenic input, a prerequisite for rehabilitation planning. An example is given from the Mansfeld mining district in central Germany, where mining of ‘Kupferschiefer’ was conducted for over 800 years and led to extensive environmental pollution, considered to be mainly of geogenic origin. In consequence, only emergency measures have been implemented. The aim of the present study was to identify the metal sources in the mining district and to assess the range of pollutant migration. In combining conventional geochemistry, mineralogy and radiometry, it was shown that most of the multi-metal pollution in the Mansfeld mining district is of anthropogenic origin. The major sources of metals are low-grade ore, metalliferous flue dust and slag. Conventional geochemistry provided information on the spread of contamination in the rivers of the mining district. Mineralogy and microchemistry added data on the composition of the source material and pointed to the potential sources of contamination. Finally, the fraction of these sources in environmental pollution was estimated by gamma-spectroscopy.
Exploration using till geochemistry and heavy minerals in the ribbed moraine area of southern Finnish Lapland
Authors: Sarala P. , Peuraniemi V.
Published: November 2007

The geochemistry of different till size fractions and studies of heavy minerals have been used in mineral exploration in the ribbed moraine terrain in southern Finnish Lapland. The Peräpohja Schist Belt and layered intrusions along its southern margin have known potential for economic Au, Co, Cu, Fe, Zn, U and PGE mineralization. In till, high element concentrations related to mineralization in the local bedrock preferentially occur in the near-surface (less than 2 to 3 m depth) of ribbed moraine ridges. The ridges formed subglacially by gouging of local bedrock, which favoured the deposition of rock material derived from the local bedrock surface into till on the surficial part of ridges. The short distance of glacial transport (<500 m) is indicated by clast angularity, the abundance of locally derived boulders in the upper till and at the surface, and by the preservation of euhedral pyrite and chalcopyrite crystals and native Au grains in the heavy mineral concentrates. Detailed studies show that ribbed moraine ridge tops can be used for mineral exploration because they are more likely to be composed of local bedrock than are the sediments comprising the ridge core.
Geochemical signatures of mesothermal Au-mineralized late-metamorphic deformation zones, Otago Schist, New Zealand
Authors: Craw D. , MacKenzie D.J. , Pitcairn I.K. , Teagle D.A.H. , Norris R.J.
Published: November 2007

Hydrothermal processes along two regional-scale shear zones in the Otago Schist were dominated by structurally controlled fluid flow and mineralization in the host schist, with relatively minor quartz vein formation, and mineralized rocks are only subtly different from unmineralized rocks. Most Au in the shear zones is associated with sulphide minerals (pyrite and arsenopyrite) disseminated through the host schist or along microshears. Minor enrichment of Sb, Mo and Bi (ppm level) is detectable in the Hyde-Macraes Shear Zone (HMSZ). Hydrothermal muscovite is slightly more aluminous (1–2 wt%) than metamorphic muscovite in both shear zones. HMSZ muscovite averages >900 ppm N, in contrast to metamorphic muscovite that averages
c.
200 ppm N. In both shear zones, rutile has replaced metamorphic titanite and epidote has altered to carbonate and phyllosilicates, but these reactions were nearly isochemical. Structurally controlled hydrothermal graphite in the HMSZ occurs in microshears (up to 3 wt%, above background <0.2 wt%). Alteration in the Rise & Shine Shear Zone (RSSZ) was accompanied by addition of abundant ankerite. The two shear zones have subtly different geochemical signatures and are not directly genetically related. However, As enrichment is a key exploration target for both shear zones.
Vegetation controls on the formation of gold anomalies in calcreteand other materials at the Barns Gold Prospect, Eyre Peninsula,South Australia
Authors: Lintern M.J.
Published: November 2007

A biogeochemical study was undertaken at Barns Gold Prospect, a Au-in-calcrete discovery in the Northern Eyre Peninsula (South Australia). The prospect is located in highly weathered Proterozoic rocks and is overlain by at least 1 m of aeolian quartz sand that thickens to 8 m as a longitudinal sand dune over part of the mineralization. The dune is well-vegetated, with
Melaleuca
shrubs and
Eucalyptus
trees up to 5 m high.

Over mineralization anomalous Au concentrations occur in plant organs, litter, soils and sand. The highest Au concentrations (9 ppb) occur in calcareous rhizomorphs high up within the dune. Luminescence dating shows that the dune took no longer than 27 000 years to form and mass balance calculations indicate that the Au anomaly in the dune has formed in less than 10 000 years. Mechanisms for the Au accumulation in the sand are postulated and it appears that a biological process, principally involving vegetation, is the most viable.

A 200-m sample spacing of vegetation appears to be adequate for exploration of this type of deposit. Below the sand, calcrete provides a robust sampling medium. At present, due to limited knowledge of exploration methods in this type of environment, the mineral explorer must either expend significant financial resources augering through areas of sand cover to collect buried calcrete samples, or have lower confidence that vegetation and surface soil samples will detect mineralization.
Use of vegetation and soil in mineral exploration in areas of transported overburden, Yilgarn Craton, Western Australia: a contribution towards understanding metal transportation processes
Authors: Anand R.R. , Cornelius M. , Phang C.
Published: November 2007

Five sites were selected in the semi-arid northern Yilgarn Craton (Jaguar VHMS Cu-Zn-Ag, Moolart Well Au, Rumour Au, Gossan Hill VHMS Cu-Zn-Au and McGrath North Au deposits) to test the use of vegetation as an exploration sampling medium in areas of transported overburden. A variety of vegetation samples (litter, roots, bark, branch wood and phyllodes) were collected from Mulga (
Acacia aneura
) plants. In addition, the soil from 10–20 cm below surface was sampled and analysed following total, partial and selective digests to investigate any potential chemical signature of bedrock mineralization at surface.

At all sites, selective extractions of the <250 μm fraction of soil show either no expression of buried mineralization or, where present, only a weak or ambiguous signature. In contrast, the vegetation survey shows a multi-element signature in different plant organs. Branches show very low anomaly contrasts or none at all. Phyllodes and bark generally show weak to moderate anomaly contrasts. Litter shows the greatest anomaly contrast of all plant material.

There is also an enrichment in metals and an expression of the bedrock mineralization with good anomaly contrast in the uppermost soil horizon (0–4 cm) at Jaguar and this may indicate some mixing of litter and soil by bioturbation, and fixing on organic material, and Fe and/or Mn oxides. This contrasts with greater depths (10–20 cm) where no significant metal enrichment appears to have occurred, suggesting that most contained metals were fixed near-surface and do not percolate deeper into the profile. This is possibly due to slow decomposition of litter in arid terrains, with continuous loss of soil and fine litter particles by wind erosion and bush fires. Our data support the hypothesis that vegetation plays an important role in bringing metals to surface in areas with a semi-arid to arid climate and a low water-table.
The CIRIA Chalk description and classification scheme
Authors: Spink T.W.
Published: November 2007

The CIRIA Project Report 11 ‘Foundations in Chalk’ introduced a new chalk classification scheme. For structured chalk the grade isdefined by a combination of fracture spacing and aperture, supplemented by an assessment ofdensity. For structureless chalk the grade is based on the proportion of comminuted chalk matrix to coarser fragments. This technical note describes how the CIRIA scheme should be integrated with a full description of the Chalk, and suggests some modifications and clarifications to the scheme to overcome practical difficulties in its usage.
Geohazard mapping for predicting landslides: an example from the Langhe Hills in Piemonte, NW Italy
Authors: Mason P.J. , Rosenbaum M.S.
Published: November 2007

Geohazard mapping has been developed using multi-form, digital image data, permitting a regional assessment of risk concerning slope instability. Landsat Thematic Mapper and multi-temporal SPOT-Panchromatic image data have been processed to identify land use patterns and soil mineralogy information, supported by field measurements using spectroscopy and X-Ray Diffraction (XRD). These have been used to identify slope instabilities generated by the storm that struck Piemonte in November 1994. This event caused many fatalities and produced widespread mass movement, flooding and consequential damage to property. Slope angle and slope aspect data were derived from a Digital Elevation Model (DEM), produced from stereo air-photographs. The geohazard map was then compiled by merging digital slope data with geotechnical characteristics,utilizing map algebra within a Geographical Information Systems (GIS).
Chalk engineering geology – Channel Tunnel Rail Link and North Downs Tunnel
Authors: Warren C.D. , Mortimore R.N.
Published: November 2007

Agreat part of the Channel Tunnel Rail Link (CTRL) is constructed through the Chalk and the ground investigation for the CTRL has yielded a mass of new information on allaspects of the Chalk. A precise bed by bed lithostratigraphy obtained from cored boreholes has aided engineering description, classification, decision making on design of machines and construction methods/specifications. Correlation of Chalk marker beds between boreholes drilled for the tunnels beneath London illustrated the influence of sub-Tertiary erosion and of faulting onpreservation of different stratigraphic levels in the Chalk. These different stratigraphic levels affect materials through which the tunnels will be constructed andconsequently tunnel vertical alignment or choice of construction method. The marker bed stratigraphy in the Thames Tunnel boreholes has enabled the same stratigraphic levels to be identified in local quarries and detailed analyses to be carried out for the design of Tunnel Boring Machines. Using individual marker beds, a detailed ground profile was constructed for the North Downs Tunnel which allowed fault zones to be predicted accurately and the different rock mass character of the Chalk formations to be delimited for numerical modelling, design zones and construction monitoring. The project also provided the opportunity to evaluate the CIRIA Chalk Grading scheme.
Coastal and submarine karstic discharges in theGökova Bay, SW Turkey
Authors: Bayari C.S. , Kurttas T.
Published: November 2007

Hydrochemical, stable isotopic (
18
O and
2
H) and thermal infrared data of LANDSAT 5 TM for sea surface temperature anomalies have been used to determine the extent and spatial variation of salinization in coastal and submarine karstic groundwater discharges in the Gökova Bay area, located in the SW Turkey. The bay is an active graben extending in an east–west direction. An artesian aquifer in the eastern tidal plain is the only source of fresh groundwater, whereas Tertiary and Mesozoic carbonates contacting with sea along the northern coastline provide abundant but saline water. Physical properties, major ion chemistry and stable isotope composition indicate a westward increase in the salinity of the karstic springs. The temporal variation of salinity in groundwater is either related to variations in sea level or in seasonal recharge rates, while some springs have time-invariant salinity. Submarine groundwater discharges were determined successfully from satellite images and verified by ground measurements of pH, temperature and electrical conductivity. Some of these discharges are also characterized by the existence of a halocline, as observed during Scuba diving. The westward-increasing salinity appears to be related to decreasing groundwater discharge in this direction.
Geological modelling, the observational method and management of ground hazards: Ramsgate Harbour Approach Road Tunnel
Authors: Newman T.G. , Allen R.G. , Mortimore R.N.
Published: November 2007

The Ramsgate Harbour Approach Road Tunnel (RHART) was the first to use the prevaulting tunnelling method in the UK. As with other forms of open-face tunnelling, this method relies on the establishment of a reliable pre-construction geological model and continual verification of this model during construction by use of the observational method.

The route was thought to pass through difficult ground conditions containing a number of natural and artificial hazards which, if not managed properly, would have serious implications for health and safety during construction. This paper illustrates how geological modelling was used for early identification and prediction of such hazards, enabling the planning of contingency procedures. By incorporating the observational method in the construction process the site team was able to assess the accuracy of predictions made from the ground model.

Procedures adopted during construction of theRamsgate Harbour Approach Road Tunnel illustrate how results from continuous in-tunnel and surface observation and monitoring lead to increased confidence in the geological model and the prediction of ground behaviour. Adoption of these procedures reduced the risks posed from unforeseen ground hazards and significantly improved health and safety issues for personnel during construction.
The metastability of some gull-fill materials from Allington, Kent, UK
Authors: Bell F.G. , Culshaw M.G. , Northmore K.J.
Published: November 2007

Samples of infill material from gulls in the Hythe Beds at Allington, Kent, England, were tested to determine their geotechnical index properties and their susceptibility to collapse when wetted under load in an oedometer. The soils accumulated during late Devensian, late Pleistocene, times within a periglacial environment. They probably represent, at least in part, an overlying layer of brickearth type material that gradually subsided into the gulls as the ice that occupied them melted with the onset of warmer conditions. The soils resemble, both in colour and their index properties, brickearth found elsewhere in Kent and in south Essex. All the gull-fill sample material had silt contents in excess of 75%, low dry densities (1.4–1.7 Mg m
−3
), medium to high porosities (35–47.5%) and carbonate contents below 0.5%. The results from the oedometer collapse tests showed that one of the samples was non-collapsible and that the others were conditionally collapsible. When these results were compared with several empirical collapse criteria, all derived from basic geotechnical soil properties, only some of the criteria showed reasonable agreement with the oedometerresults.
The reactivation of a landslide during the construction of the Ok Ma tailings dam, Papua New Guinea
Authors: Griffiths J.S. , Hutchinson J.N. , Brunsden D. , Petley D.J. , Fookes P.G.
Published: November 2007

The Ok Ma dam (Ok is a local word meaning river) was to form part of the permanent tailings disposal system designed for the Ok Tedi gold and copper opencast mine located at Mount Fubilan in the Star Mountains of Papua New Guinea. During the construction works a landslide involving approximately 35 million cubic metres of soil and rock moved downslope to partially fill the foundation excavations of the dam. The failure of this landslide was the start of an insurance litigation that finally reached the Supreme Court of Papua New Guinea in November 1989. The geotechnical, geomorphological and engineering geological data that were available at the time of the failure are presented together with an evaluation of the key deductions from the case study.
Material characterization of Singapore Marine Clayat Changi
Authors: Bo M.W. , Choa V. , Hong K.H.
Published: November 2007

During site investigations at Changi EastReclamation Project, boreholes intersected Singapore Marine Clay and provided a large number of undisturbed samples for laboratory testing. The unit ranges up to 40 m thick and comprises two distinct layers with an intervening desiccated zone. Mineralogically, the upper layer consists of kaolinite and smectite with small amounts of mica and chloride. The lower layer consists of quartz, kaolinite and smectite with small amounts of mica, chloride, albite, orthoclase, pyrite and halite. The desiccated zone is an overconsolidated layer of lower marine clay and its mineralogy is similar to that of the lower marine clay. Engineering characterization of the Singapore Marine Clay demonstrated that the upper layer is highly plastic with high moisture contents whereas the lower layer is medium to high plasticity with relatively lower moisture contents. Both the upper and lower marine clays are highly compressible with low permeabilities and the intermediate clay is less compressible. Both upper and lower marine clays are lightly overconsolidated and the intermediate clay is highly overconsolidated due to desiccation. Undrained shear strengths are typically around 5 to 10 kPa at the seabed and increase with depth. The effective frictional angle of the upper marine clay ranges from 22.5° to 27.5° whereas that of the lower layer ranges from 22° to 26°. Friction angles at the critical state are found to be 28° and 32° for compression and extension respectively.
High-resolution sequence stratigraphy as a tool in hydrogeological exploration in the Atacama Desert
Authors: Houston John
Published: November 2007

With water shortages becoming increasinglycommon globally, there is a need forincreasingly sophisticated methods oflocating groundwater reservoirs in more complex environments. High-resolution sequence stratigraphy, long used in the oil industry offers the prospect of a new tool for hydrogeological exploration. Recent exploration for groundwater in the Late Palaeogene and Neogene fore-arc basins of northern Chile in the Atacama Desert is used as an example of the application of this technique. The analysis of a second order sequence spanning the continental Early Oligocene to Miocene sediments and volcanics of the Calama and Turi Basins allows the identification of two aquifers separated by an aquiclude and provides valuable insight into reservoir properties and preferential flow paths within the aquifers, which can be matched with the results of pumping tests.