bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Review of Lithuanian Experience in Asphalt Pavements Cold Recycling
Authors: Vaitkus Audrius , Gražulytė Judita , Juknevičiūtė-Žilinskienė Lina , Andrejevas Vitalijus
Published: September 2017

One of the key goals in the EU White Paper is to reduce carbon emissions in transport by 60% by 2050. Consequently, during the past years an effect on the environment became a decisive factor in selecting materials and technologies for road construction and rehabilitation. Cold recycling is a reasonable solution in asphalt pavement rehabilitation because it is economical and old asphalt pavements can be reused. This technology differs from others by mixing temperature. Besides, cold recycling does not require additional heating. These benefits result in wide application of cold recycling around the world. In Lithuania, cold recycling has been used for more than 15 years. Both technologies, i.e. cold in-plant recycling and cold in-place recycling, were used. In both technologies reclaimed asphalt pavement (RAP) is bound with bituminous binders (foamed bitumen or bitumen emulsion), hydraulic binders (cement) or a combination of bituminous and hydraulic binders depending on the base course specifications. This paper focuses on the Lithuanian experience in cold recycling of asphalt pavements using different types of cold recycling and binders.
Development of the Train Traffic Regulation Method for “Rail Baltica” Line Based on the Implementation of the European Train Traffic Control Systems
Authors: Valentinovič Larisa , Sivilevičius Henrikas
Published: September 2017

This article focuses on analyzing the systems and methods used for the interval regulation of train movement on “Rail Baltica” line in “Lithuanian Railways”. The method discussed in the article can be viewed as a combination of several management automation solutions and it is based on the implementation of the European Railway Traffic Management System (ERTMS). As it is known, the ERTMS provides an interoperable European railway network. The primary objective is to improve the quality of train traffic and to make railway transport safer and more comfortable. In order to ensure new traffic prevision for Lithuanian Railways, new interval regulation methods and traction calculations must be used. This developed method is more useful than the previous methods as it allows to shape an efficiently automated and optimized scheduling process as well as to improve line capacity and efficiency. This paper proposes the development of a moving block train control system. The calculations were made using the intervals between trains. The interval and block-section borders are not fixed by traffic signs or traffic-lights. Instead, they move after the train in the front, creating a flexible interval regulation system. The results showed that the implementation of the method had a positive impact on the operators’ performance and allowed to reduce energy consumption and to increase the speeds of train movement. The paper also presents a statistical figure portraying railway accidents and railway operation accident reports before and after the implementation of the ERTMS. The results of the analysis showed that the implementation of the European Train Traffic control systems and the interval regulation of train movement method will provide high throughput and carrying capacity, traffic safety and also increase the productivity of operation procedures.
New Approach to the Lithuanian Road Classification Based on Worldwide Experience
Authors: Vitkienė Jūratė , Puodžiukas Virgaudas , Žilionienė Daiva
Published: September 2017

Road classification and road hierarchy are essential steps making sure that roads are designed and used properly. Road classification is an approach, to sort them into a small number of groups or classes, and then assigns the roads in a network to one or more of these groups. There are many ways to classify roads. One of them is regarding road hierarchy (or more specifically, functional road hierarchy). The efficiency and effectiveness of the road network directly impact economic growth and societal development. Economically, it is important through classification of roads to represent every road function, as it can enhance the delivery of goods efficient and effective. Arterial roads of a higher class significantly influence economic development by providing the main route of fright transportation and services, as well as significantly influence societal development as it provides a safe, effective and efficient route to travel on. At the same time, the high volume of traffic-related accidents calls for a road network that is safe for all road-users. It is known that the physical road network affects traffic and driver behaviour, and this in turn directly influences energy consumption and the environmental impacts associated with the emissions thereof. In this article review at road classification and road hierarchy of worldwide. It concludes with some comments on the current Lithuanian situation. It can be achieved in Lithuania to make influences to road safety, speed regulation, driver behaviour, traffic studies and accessibility to services.
Biomagnificación de mercurio en la cadena trófica del Delfín Moteado del Atlántico (Stenella frontalis), usando el isótopo estable de nitrógeno como marcador ecológico
Authors: Kehrig Helena A. , Baptista Gilberto , M. Di Beneditto Ana Paula , Almeida Marcelo G. , Rezende Carlos E. , Siciliano Salvatore , De Moura Jailson F. , Moreira Isabel
Published: September 2017

Se realizó una evaluación de las concentraciones del mercurio (Hg) y del isótopo estable de nitrógeno (δ15N) en la cadena trófica del Delfín Moteado del Atlántico (Stenella frontalis), incluyendo fitoplancton, zooplancton, peces planctívoros y sus principales presas (peces depredadores y una sola especie de cefalópodo), componentes de una cadena trófica tropical de la costa sureste de Brasil. Una de las presas del delfín, un pez depredador voraz, el pez sable (Trichiurus lepturus), presentó una concentración mediana del Hg 9,8 veces inferior que la del delfín. El valor de 15N es más bajo que al de su depredador. Los datos del isótopo han sugerido que ha habido diferencias significativas para el 15N a lo largo de la cadena trófica, en la que en el mayor depredador (delfín) se ha mostrado más pesado, seguido por el pez depredador y el pez bentófago, la corvina (Micropogonias furnieri). Se ha observado que el fitoplancton presentó el 15N más liviano, seguido por el zooplancton y el pez planctófago, el lebranche (Mugil liza). Este pez y el cefalópodo han mostrado la mediana más baja de Hg. Se han encontrado transferencias mayores que 1 en todos los vínculos de la cadena evaluada. Se ha obtenido una relación significativamente positiva entre la concentración del Hg (en logaritmo) y el nivel trófico (TL), incluyendo todas las especies investigadas, presentando una pendiente positiva (δ= 0,87). El factor de magnificación trófica (FMT= 7,44) indica que la concentración del Hg ha aumentado por TL, y también que toda la cadena trófica costera presentó un poder de biomagnificación de Hg dentro de un rango previamente reportado para ecosistemas costeros tropicales.
SOURCES, source apportionment using isotope ratio characterization of oil sands environmental samples: airborne contaminations - northern Athabasca Oil Sands region
Authors: Ahad J M E
Published: September 2017

A follow-up to the successful CORES Project (2009-2014), SOURCES (SOurce apportionment Using isotope Ratio Characterization of oil sands Environmental Samples; 2014-2019) is focused on the development and application of geochemical and isotopic methodologies to
distinguish between natural and anthropogenic contaminants and to better understand processes controlling their distribution in Northern Alberta's Athabasca oil sands region. The project is divided into research projects centred on airborne and waterborne contaminants. The airborne component to
SOURCES is examining inorganic nitrogen species (NH3/NH4 and NO3) in air, soils and trees, and organic contaminants (polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons - PAHs) in lake sediments and snow. The waterborne activity is focused on the surface water-groundwater interactions in areas potentially impacted by
emissions from the large tailings ponds. The main contaminants of concern for the waterborne component are metals and naphthenic acids - a complex mixture of carboxylic acids found naturally in bitumen that become concentrated in oil sands process-affected water. As of spring 2017, most fieldwork
required to support this research (both components) has been carried out. Analyses on PAHs in lake sediments and snow, nitrogen and nutrients in tree rings and soils, and metals and naphthenic acids in groundwater and surface water samples are ongoing.
Evaluation of density separators models in Canadian coal preparation plants
Authors: Salma A I A , Mikhail M W , Bird L C
Published: September 2017

yes
Spontaneous combustion problems associated with the mining and storage of thermal coal - a review
Authors: Chakravorty R N
Published: September 2017

Spontaneous combustion has always been recognized as one of the major hazards both from safety aspects and from economic considerations. The paper reviews the factors responsible for the occurences of spontaneous combustion during mining and storage of thermal
coal and discusses measures likely to help in the prevention of fire caused by spontaneous heating. An evaluation of methods for early detection of heating is also included
Mining demonstrations and longwall mining systems
Authors: Zahary G , Muirhead I R
Published: September 2017

yes
Coal preparation computer applications coal research laboratory r & d
Authors: Salama A I A , Mikhail M W , Mikula R J
Published: September 2017

yes
The effect of test cavity geology on the in situ permeability of coal measures strata associated with longwall mining
Authors: Aston T R C , Singh R N
Published: September 2017

Longwall mining results in induced ground strains which cause in situ permeability changes in the surrounding strata. A review is made of the two methods most commonly used to measure in situ permeability changes, namely 'pumping out' and 'pumping in' tests,
along with the advantages and disadvantages of their use in Coal Measures strata. A detailed examination is then made of the effects of test cavity geology on the induced in situ permeability changes monitOred at five investigation sites in Great Britain.
Instrumentation schemes capable of measuring seafloor subsidence over longwall mining operations
Authors: Aston T R C , Steeves D , Amirault J A
Published: September 2017

Extensive mineable coal reserves exist in the offshore portion of the Sydney Coalfield, Nova Scotia. The near surface portion of these reserves is particularly attractive in economic terms, although longwall coal mining implies the development of seafloor
subsidence profiles. Rational field trothed undersea subsidence guidelines are therefore required to optimise the recovery of these reserves without producing unacceptable risks regarding major water inflows to the mine workings. In order to monitor seafloor subsidence an instrumentation scheme is
required which is rugged and capable of operating in a marine environment without maintenance for prolonged periods of time and during bad weather and ice conditions. Once deployed, the monitoring system must be correlated with the underground mine workings which necessitates the use of land based
control and precise offshore navigation systems. Four instrumentation schemes capable of monitoring seafloor subsidence are examined: Seasurface, Subsea, Geophysics and Direct Monitoring. The subsea and direct monitoring schemes come close to the design requirements, although a research and
development programme is required to convert existing land based subsidence monitoring instrumentation for use in the marine environment. The seasurface and geophysical schemes offer little promise without further research and development.
Rock classification for coal mining applications
Authors: Das B
Published: September 2017

A systematic knowledge of rock properties is required for the efficient design of a coal mine. These properties are related to ground control, rock fragmentation and mine environmental problems. Ground control problems are complex in mining excavations because of
the complex network of roadways, caving and load transfer, large spans of mined-out areas and the need for cheap and short term support systems. A coal mine differs from a hard rock mine, in geological conditions and in strength properties of rocks. Consequently, distinct mining methods typical for
coal seams have gradually evolved which in turn have brought forth different ground control problems. It is important to identify the processes and phenomena in coal mining and the different rock properties functionally related to these processes. It is also necessary to develop test methods for
determining these properties. One important objective must be to integrate the characteristic properties into a classification system. This system should be suitable for both laboratory and in situ tests, as well as being applicable in the exploration stage, when only a limited amount of sample is
available. CANMET in Calgary has been active in developing a classification system for coal mining applications through in-house and contract work. This paper describes the concept of rock classification and its usefulness to coal mining. Also described is a basic classification system which has
been developed based on critical roof span and which can be evaluated in situ using a hydraulic borehole penetrometer. Tests have also been carried out using portable and other instruments on both cores and irregular samples to integrate the methods into the classification
system.
Review of a proposed development for the east districts at Lingan Colliery
Authors: Cain P
Published: September 2017

At the request of the Cape Breton Development Corporation, a proposal for future development on the east side of Lingan Colliery was reviewed with respect to the stability of the roadways serving the proposed extraction panels.
Evaluation of the point load strength for soft rock classification
Authors: Das B
Published: September 2017

A project to evaluate the suitability of point load strength tests for testing and classifying coal measure rocks for coal mining application was initiated by Canada Centre for Mineral and Energy Technology (CARNET). A summary of this study with emphasis on the
important findings is presented in this paper. The instrument as used in this study is a Robertson Research Rock Strength Index Log. Because of the variation in the correlation ratio between uniaxist compressive strength and point Load strength index for hard rocks and soft rocks it was decided to
establish this correlation initially on cement concrete specimens specially prepared for this purpose following ASTM specifications. These specimens are expected to represent soft rocks and at the same time would be of uniform quality. Once a general trend of this correlation was established tests
were performed on coal and rock samples from the sub-bituminous and bituminous coalfields in Canada. The most important results may be stated as follows: (i) Generally, the common value of the ratio between the uniaxial compressive strength and the point Load strength index ranges between 8 to 14.
(ii) The Robertson Research Rock Strength Index Log proves to be quite suitable for testing sandstone, siltstone and some coals from the bituminous coalfields but problems have been experienced when testing weathered samples .or samples from the sub-bituminous coalfields. (iii) In some cases tests
were successful if larger samples from weathered zones or from sub-bituminous coalfields were used. However, a magnified load gauge for 0-3KN or 0-5KN is expected to be the best solution for soft and weathered rocks in most of the cases. Some mudstones and some rocks from weathered zone do not
appear to be suitable for these tests. This: aspect of the study is stilt under investigation. (iv) Deterioration of rock properties due to weathering has been determined through tests on samples collected from weathered and unweathered samples.
The microhardness technique and its application to coal and coal mining
Authors: Das B
Published: September 2017

Although the indentation microhardness technique was mainly developed for metal testing, it has been now widely used for both rock and coal testing. Properties of coal are governed by rank, maceral composition, rank metamorphism path and environmental factors
such as, state of stress, joints, mineral matters in coal and ground water. These properties in turn affect coal strength, brittleness, grindability and dust formation, methane emission, susceptibility to spontaneous heating, coking properties, etc. Some of these criteria can be accurately predicted
through microhardness tests on coal. Microhardness values and the morphology of the microhardness impressions need be considered for this purpose. The microhardness technique is a simple and non-destructive test allowing hundreds of tests to be performed on a hand size specimen. The tests can be
performed on individual macerals and therefore the properties of any desired maceral can be determined. This is important as in many cases the strength of the weakest member largely affects the behaviour of coal, for example, fracture initiation, creep, etc. This paper discusses the principles of
the technique, its application to coal and coal mining, special characteristics of the method, and its advantages over other methods.
Highlights of recent research conducted by the Cape Breton Coal Research Laboratory Coal Mine Environment Group
Authors: Hwang J C Y , Konda B W , Stokes A W
Published: September 2017

The objective of the Coal Mine Environment Group is to improve safety, health and productivity of Atlantic Canada's coal mines through improved understanding and control of respirable airborne dust, ventilation and methane gas. Mdst activities of the Coal Mine
Environment Group are intended to benefit the Cape Breton Development Corporation (CBDC) the dominant coal producer in Atlantic Canada. This report is a compilation of recently completed investigations in the fields of respirable airborne dust, advancing longwall gob leakage and methane release in
an active advancing longwall panel.
A review and evaluation of undersea subsidence criteria used in the Sydney Coalfield, N.S.
Authors: Aston T R C
Published: September 2017

En 1983, le Laboratoire de recherche sur le charbon, au Cap-Breton, a entrepris un programme de recherche à long terme visant à réviser et évaluer les lignes directrices relatives à l'exploitation minière souterraine appliquées
à la houillère de Sydney (N.-É.). Un des projets principaux élaboré dans le cadre du programme est la formulation de lignes directrices spécifiques portant sur la subsidence sous-marine, en particulier en ce qui concerne la déformation maximale due à la
traction qui peut se produire dans le fond marin. Le présent rapport se veut un document de référence retraçant les origines et le développement des lignes directrices relatives à la résilience du fond marin, élaborées au É.-U., en G.-B. et à la
houillère de Sydney. Enfin, les activités de recherche souterraines entreprises en G.-B. sont passées en revue, et l'applicabilité des lignes directrices actuelles élaborées à la houillère de Sydney est étudiée.
Initial field application/tests of telemetry system to monitor 33 Stability of highwall and tailings areas at the Syncrude Oilsands open pit mine
Authors: Fisekci M Y , Stuart N J
Published: September 2017

CANMET/CRL had previously developed, under a contract with Ecological and Resources Consultants Ltd., a radio telemetry system for monitoring tiltmeters for use at an hydraulic mine at Sparwood, B.C. This system has now been installed with minimal modification to
monitor highwall and tailings dam stability at the Syncrude oil sands operation near Fort McMurray, Alberta. This report describes the recalibration of the tiltmeters, their installation and the initial field tests of the system in this electromagnetically noisy environment. Recommendations for the
future expansion of the system are outlined.
Resolution enhancement of photoacoustic FTIR spectra
Authors: Michaelian K H , Friesen W I
Published: September 2017

Fourier self-deconvolution of a photoacoustic FTIR spectrum by direct manipulation of the observed interforogram is shown to be possible. Over a narrow frequency range, the measured photoacoustic (PA) signal is approximately proportional to the optical absorption
coefficient, thereby enabling known line shapes to be used in the deconvolution. The method 1.3 applied to the PA spectrum of kaolinite and the enhanced spectrums compared with other theoretical and experimental results.
Oxidation and weathering of stockpiled Western Canadian coals
Authors: Mikula R J , Axelson D E , Michaelian K H
Published: September 2017

yes
Computer realization of spatial filters
Authors: Mansour N A
Published: September 2017

This report presents theory and results for a computer technique used to construct optical spatial filters. The technique only considers the change in phase and the filter constructed therefore is a phase filter. This filter can be used to improve the beating
efficiency which in turn improves the signal to noise ratio in the well known heterodyne optical detection technique. Mathematical formulation of the technique is presented and a 32 grey scale was used to realize the filters for a letter 0.
Stability enhancement of coal measures strata with waterbased chemical agents
Authors: Cain P , Brown J D , Amirault J A
Published: September 2017

This paper summarizes a contract report of work undertaken on behalf of the Department of Energy, Mines and Resources to ascertain the effectiveness of surface applied chemicals as a swelling retardant for use in underground coal mines. It addresses the
mineralogical, chemical and mechanical aspects of the swelling clay problem. The experience of the use of swelling retarders in the oil well drilling industry is reviewed and the various types of stabilizing chemicals discussed. Finally, potential applications of the technology in coal mining are
discussed with mention of the toxicity of the chemical agents and their relative costs.
An evaluation of 9 east's monolithic packing as a gob sealant
Authors: Stokes A W
Published: September 2017

Le Laboratoire de recherche sur le charbon du Cap-Breton a entrepris d'évaluer l'efficacité des systèmes de remblayage monolithique de réduire les fuites d'air dans les remblais d'une zone exploitée par longue taille. Depuis un an
environ, un système de remblayage monolithique est utilisé dans la galerie de longue taille 9 Est de la mine Lingan (SDCB) où il y a actuellement 700 m de remblai en place. Les résultats d'une étude récente ont démontré que le remblayage monolithique
réduit les fuites d'air et permettrait une exploitation par longue taille de 2 500 m sans avoir recours au mode de ventilation cundi. Ce rapport décrit les résultats de cette étude et les compare avec les résultats obtenus lors d'une étude semblable effectuée dans
les sections 8 Est et 4 Ouest de la mine. Des valeurs théoriques calculées à l'aide d'un ordinateur ont été préparées afin d'évaluer l'effet qu'aurait une augmentation de la charge de ventilation sur le système de ventilation, causée par
l'utilisation du système de remblayage monolithique dans les futurs travaux d'exploitation par longue taille.
A delta P technique for the prediction and monitoring of coal oxidation
Authors: Mikula R J , Mikhail M W
Published: September 2017

Laboratory simulation of the oxidation process was carried out in order to study the effect of oxidation on coal properties important in beneficiation and utilization. Naturally weathered samples were also studied and compared to those oxidized under controlled
conditions in the laboratory. The chemical changes which take place during oxidation, either in the laboratory or in the field, were monitored by measuring the rate and amount of gas desorption from the coal sample (the AP technique). Results obtained on a AP instrument are compared with those
obtained via standard coal analysis and photo acoustic FTIR spectroscopy. Full scale coking tests were also done on some of the naturally weathered coal for verificiation of the utility of the technique. Monitoring the oxidation and weathering of stockpiled western Canadian bituminous coals, either
run of mine or product, is possible with this equipment and indications are that it could be applied to other coals as well. Preliminary results indicate that it will also be useful for predicting the weathering propensity of a coal before it is stockpiled.
Empirically derived formulae for coal pillar strength
Authors: Barron K , Das B
Published: September 2017

Over the years a number of empirically based formulae have been derived to describe the strength of coal pillars. In all cases the originators have endeavoured to estimate pillar strength by extrapolating laboratory or in situ strength data taking into account
both size and shape effects on coal strength. This past work is reviewed and discussed. The scopes and limitations of different approaches have been pointed out. An attempt has been made to find equations which would take into account both size and shape effects at the same
time.
Comparison of Fortran and GPSS languages in the simulation of a shovel-truck open pit operation
Authors: Fytas K , Wilson E B , Singhal R K
Published: September 2017

The General Purpose Simulation System (GPSS) is a computer simulation language that has been used for simulations of open pit haulage operations since the 60's. It is easy to learn, simple to use, and has a block-diagram structure that is amenable to load-haul
systems. However, due to its lack of flexibility, there are situations where another language should be chosen. This paper reviews the characteristics and capabilities of both GPSS and FORTRAN with regard to open pit shovel and truck simulation. The relative advantages and disadvantages are
highlighted and a case study presented along with comparative results from two computer models (one written in GPSS and the other written in FORTRAN).
CCS: geological storage of CO2 at the Aquistore site
Authors: White D
Published: September 2017

Carbon Capture and Storage (CCS) has been identified as a priority issue within the context of the North American Climate Change and Energy Collaboration and Mission Innovation. An important aspect of CCS is the need to improve public confidence in long-term
geological storage of CO2. A key to developing confidence for the longer term is a demonstration of safe and expected storage behaviour in the short term. Two primary concerns of the public and government regulatory bodies are the potential for induced seismicity and for CO2 leakage. To alleviate
these concerns, storage monitoring is critical in demonstrating that the subsurface CO2 plume is behaving as expected, and that induced microseismic or seismic activity is being closely monitored. The Aquistore CO2 Storage Project is a multi-year research and monitoring project to demonstrate that
storing CO2 deep underground is a safe and workable solution to help reduce greenhouse gas emissions to the atmosphere. The Geological Survey of Canada's studies within the project are focused on the development of improved monitoring methodologies and a better understanding of the relationship
between CO2 injection and induced seismicity.
A total of 107 ktonnes of CO2 were injected at the Aquistore site from April-2015 to Jan-2017. Injection is occurring within a saline formation at a depth of 3150-3350 m. In the first 4 months of 2016, CO2 was injected at an average rate of ~400 tonnes/day. Passive seismic monitoring at the
site which began in 2012 has not identified any seismicity associated with the injection process. The first time-lapse 3D seismic surveys were conducted in February and November of 2016 when the cumulative injected quantity of CO2 was 36 ktonnes and 105 ktonnes, respectively. The resultant
time-lapse seismic images show how the CO2 plume is partitioned vertically within the reservoir and how it is spreading laterally. The seismic observations indicate that the initial geological model used for CO2 flow simulations will have to be modified.
Exploration and mining guide for aboriginal communities
Authors:   Minerals and Metals Sector
Published: September 2017

Preface
The original Mining Information Kit for Aboriginal Communities, which this document updates and replaces, was published in 2006. It was a partnership project between the Minerals and Metals Sector of Natural Resources Canada, Aboriginal Affairs and Northern Development Canada, The Mining Association
of Canada, the Prospectors and Developers Association of Canada, and the
Canadian Aboriginal Minerals Association.
This revised Guide was developed by reviewing user feedback on the 2006 version and through a process involving an advisory committee. The advisory committee comprised the original partners of the Mining Information Kit for Aboriginal Communities and representatives of Aboriginal organizations,
mining industry, civil society, government, and academia.
It is designed to be used as a complementary tool to existing instruments and as a living document.
Merging AUV-based multibeam and image data to map the small-scale heterogeneity of Mn-nodule distribution
Authors: Alevizos E , Schoenning T , Köser K , Snellen M , Greinert J
Published: September 2017

AUVs offer the unique possibilities for exploring the deep sea seafloor in high resolution over large areas. We highlight the results from AUV-based multibeam echosounder (MBES) bathymetry / backscatter and digital imagery from the DISCOL area acquired during
SO242 in 2015. AUV bathymetry reveals a morphologically complex seafloor with rough terrain in seamount areas and low-relief variations in the Mn-nodule covered sedimentary abyssal plain. Backscatter provides valuable information about the seafloor type and particularly about the influence of
Mn-nodules on the response of the transmitted acoustic signal. Primarily Mn-nodule abundances were determined by means of automated nodule detection on AUV seafloor imagery and nodule metrics such as nodules/image and nodules/m2 were calculated automatically for each image allowing further spatial
analysis within GIS in conjunction with the acoustic data. AUV-based backscatter was clustered using both raw data and corrected mosaics.
In total two unsupervised methods and one machine learning approach were utilized for backscatter classification and Mn-nodule mapping. Bayesian statistical analysis was applied to the raw backscatter values resulting in six acoustic classes. In addition ISODATA clustering was applied to the
backscatter mosaic and its statistics (mean, mode, 90th and 10th quartile) suggesting an optimum of six clusters as well. Part of the nodule metrics data was used together with bathymetry, derivatives (slope, rugosity, BPI, concavity) and backscatter statistics for predictive modelling of the
Mn-nodule density using random forests. Results show that acoustic classes, predictions from random forest modelling and image-based nodule metrics show very similar spatial distribution patterns with acoustic classes hence capturing most of the local Mn-nodule variability. A strong correlation of
nodule occurrence with mean backscatter, fine scale BPI and concavity of the bathymetry can be seen; backscatter classes reveal a gradient of decreasing nodule occurrence in N-S direction which is also evident in AUV imagery. These observations imply that nodule abundances are affected in general
terms by local micro-bathymetry in a way that is not yet fully understood. However it can be concluded that nodule abundances can be sufficiently analysed by means of acoustic classification and multivariate predictive mapping which allows predicting the spatial occurrence of Mn-covered areas as
important habitat in the deep sea in a much more robust way than previously possible.
Submerged marine habitat mapping, Cape Cod National Seashore: a post-Hurricane Sandy study
Authors: Borrelli M , Shumchenia E , Kennedy C G , Oakley B A , Hubeny J
B , Love H , Smith T
L , Legare B , McFarland S , Fox S , Giese G
S
Published: September 2017

Coastal storms are the primary drivers of coastal change, but submerged areas historically have been difficult to map and consequently to document change. Hurricane Sandy had a dramatic impact along coastal areas in proximity to landfall in late October 2012 and
those impacts have been well-documented in terrestrial coastal settings, however, due to the lack of data on submerged marine habitats similar studies have been limited. One of the motivations for this study was to provide park managers with a baseline inventory of submerged marine habitats to
measure change during future storm events.
A three-year study to map submerged habitats in Cape Cod National Seashore was recently completed. This was one of four contemporaneous studies that developed maps of submerged shallow water marine habitat in and around coastal national parks along the east coast of the United States. These four
projects used similar methods of data collection, processing and analysis for the production of benthic habitat maps. Data from a phase-measuring sidescan sonar, bottom grab samples, seismic reflection profiling, and sediment coring we all used to develop submerged marine habitat maps using the
Coastal and Marine Ecological Classification Standards (CMECS) in Cape Cod National Seashore.
Over 76 vessel-based acoustic surveys were conducted in extreme shallow water, across four embayments from 2014-2016. Sidescan sonar imagery totaling 83.1 km2 were collected and within that area 61.3 square kilometres of collocated bathymetric data were collected with a mean depth of 4.6 m. Bottom
grab samples (n = 476) and ancillary data were collected, macroinvertebrates were identified and used within the CMECS framework along with the geophysical and coring data to develop final habitat maps.
Benthic habitat mapping and sediment nutrient cycling in a shallow coastal environment of Nova Scotia, Canada
Authors: Bravo F , Grant J , Barrell J
Published: September 2017

Sedimentary facies and benthic metabolism of subtidal sediments were studied in a relatively small, but historically active bay in Southern Nova Scotia, Canada.
Our study approach was based on the combination of benthic habitat mapping, field/lab experiments, and numerical models of sediment geochemistry. This approach provided an effective mean for ecosystem-scale assessments of key benthic processes (carbon recycling, denitrification, etc.). The
distribution of bottom types and sediment properties was assessed using direct (grabs and core sampling) and remote (video and acoustic) sampling methods. The geo-referencing, classification, and interpolation of sediment properties (acoustic data, bathymetry, organic matter content, sediment
porosity, etc.) allow to produce maps showing their spatial distribution, which instead served as input of numerical models oriented to predict carbon and nitrogen recycling rates at bay-scale. This approach become relevant given the commonly limited spatial and temporal resolution of biogeochemical
measurements.
Results are discussed in regard to the implications for coastal management (maintenance of ecosystem functioning), and understanding of coastal biogeochemical cycles. Data quality and accuracy of spatially interpolated data was also evaluated, including their impacts on model
predictions.
Advanced error diagnostics of the CMAQ and Chimere modelling systems within the AQMEII3 model evaluation framework
Authors: Solazzo Efisio , Hogrefe Christian , Colette Augustin , Garcia-Vivanco Marta , Galmarini Stefano
Published: September 2017

Abstract. The work here complements the overview analysis of the modelling systems participating in the third phase of the Air Quality Model Evaluation International Initiative (AQMEII3) by focusing on the performance for hourly surface ozone by two modelling systems, Chimere for Europe and CMAQ for North America. The evaluation strategy outlined in the course of the three phases of the AQMEII activity, aimed to build up a diagnostic methodology for model evaluation, is pursued here and novel diagnostic methods are proposed. In addition to evaluating the base case simulation in which all model components are configured in their standard mode, the analysis also makes use of sensitivity simulations in which the models have been applied by altering and/or zeroing lateral boundary conditions, emissions of anthropogenic precursors, and ozone dry deposition. To help understand of the causes of model deficiencies, the error components (bias, variance, and covariance) of the base case and of the sensitivity runs are analysed in conjunction with timescale considerations and error modelling using the available error fields of temperature, wind speed, and NOx concentration. The results reveal the effectiveness and diagnostic power of the methods devised (which remains the main scope of this study), allowing the detection of the timescale and the fields that the two models are most sensitive to. The representation of planetary boundary layer (PBL) dynamics is pivotal to both models. In particular, (i) the fluctuations slower than ∼ 1.5 days account for 70–85 % of the mean square error of the full (undecomposed) ozone time series; (ii) a recursive, systematic error with daily periodicity is detected, responsible for 10–20 % of the quadratic total error; (iii) errors in representing the timing of the daily transition between stability regimes in the PBL are responsible for a covariance error as large as 9 ppb (as much as the standard deviation of the network-average ozone observations in summer in both Europe and North America); (iv) the CMAQ ozone error has a weak/negligible dependence on the errors in NO2, while the error in NO2 significantly impacts the ozone error produced by Chimere; (v) the response of the models to variations of anthropogenic emissions and boundary conditions show a pronounced spatial heterogeneity, while the seasonal variability of the response is found to be less marked. Only during the winter season does the zeroing of boundary values for North America produce a spatially uniform deterioration of the model accuracy across the majority of the continent.
A biophysical approach using water deficit factor for daily estimations of evapotranspiration and CO2 uptake in Mediterranean environments
Authors: Helman David , Lensky Itamar M. , Osem Yagil , Rohatyn Shani , Rotenberg Eyal , Yakir Dan
Published: September 2017

Abstract. Estimations of ecosystem-level evapotranspiration (ET) and CO2 uptake in water-limited environments are scarce and scaling up ground-level measurements is not straightforward. A biophysical approach using remote sensing (RS) and meteorological data (RS–Met) is adjusted to extreme high-energy water-limited Mediterranean ecosystems that suffer from continuous stress conditions to provide daily estimations of ET and CO2 uptake (measured as gross primary production, GPP) at a spatial resolution of 250 m. The RS–Met was adjusted using a seasonal water deficit factor (fWD) based on daily rainfall, temperature and radiation data. We validated our adjusted RS–Met with eddy covariance flux measurements using a newly developed mobile lab system and the single active FLUXNET station operating in this region (Yatir pine forest station) at a total of seven forest and non-forest sites across a climatic transect in Israel (280–770 mm yr−1). RS–Met was also compared to the satellite-borne MODIS-based ET and GPP products (MOD16 and MOD17, respectively) at these sites.Results show that the inclusion of the fWD significantly improved the model, with R =  0.64–0.91 for the ET-adjusted model (compared to 0.05–0.80 for the unadjusted model) and R =  0.72–0.92 for the adjusted GPP model (compared to R =  0.56–0.90 of the non-adjusted model). The RS–Met (with the fWD) successfully tracked observed changes in ET and GPP between dry and wet seasons across the sites. ET and GPP estimates from the adjusted RS–Met also agreed well with eddy covariance estimates on an annual timescale at the FLUXNET station of Yatir (266 ± 61 vs. 257 ± 58 mm yr−1 and 765 ± 112 vs. 748 ± 124 gC m−2 yr−1 for ET and GPP, respectively). Comparison with MODIS products showed consistently lower estimates from the MODIS-based models, particularly at the forest sites. Using the adjusted RS–Met, we show that afforestation significantly increased the water use efficiency (the ratio of carbon uptake to ET) in this region, with the positive effect decreasing when moving from dry to more humid environments, strengthening the importance of drylands afforestation. This simple yet robust biophysical approach shows promise for reliable ecosystem-level estimations of ET and CO2 uptake in extreme high-energy water-limited environments.
Uncertainties in shoreline position analysis: the role of run-up and tide in a gentle slope beach
Authors: Manno Giorgio , Lo Re Carlo , Ciraolo Giuseppe
Published: September 2017

Abstract. In recent decades in the Mediterranean Sea, high anthropic pressure from increasing economic and touristic development has affected several coastal areas. Today the erosion phenomena threaten human activities and existing structures, and interdisciplinary studies are needed to better understand actual coastal dynamics. Beach evolution analysis can be conducted using GIS methodologies, such as the well-known Digital Shoreline Analysis System (DSAS), in which error assessment based on shoreline positioning plays a significant role. In this study, a new approach is proposed to estimate the positioning errors due to tide and wave run-up influence. To improve the assessment of the wave run-up uncertainty, a spectral numerical model was used to propagate waves from deep to intermediate water and a Boussinesq-type model for intermediate water up to the swash zone. Tide effects on the uncertainty of shoreline position were evaluated using data collected by a nearby tide gauge. The proposed methodology was applied to an unprotected, dissipative Sicilian beach far from harbors and subjected to intense human activities over the last 20 years. The results show wave run-up and tide errors ranging from 0.12 to 4.5 m and from 1.20 to 1.39 m, respectively.
A Synthesis towards the Construct of Job Performance
Authors: J. Ramawickrama , Opatha H. H. D. N. P. , M. D. PushpaKumari
Published: September 2017

Job performance is highly relevant for organizations and individuals alike. Individual Job performance is the behavioural outcome of an employee which points out that the employee is showing positive attitudes towards his or her organization. Job performance is differently defined and measured in different disciplines in different ways. The main purpose of this paper is to define and to review theoretically and empirically the concept of job performance, measurement dimensions of job performance and empirical findings for measurement dimensions of job performance with reference to the various professions in service oriented organizations. As a desk research, this study reviewed literature regarding job performance and its dynamic nature, compared and analyzed dimensions (taxonomies) related to job performance, created a new definition and explained the importance of job performance adding novelty to the existing literature and provided suggestions for further studies.
Hoe te komen tot meer samenwerking voor beleidsonderzoek als creatief proces van richting, ordening en bijstelling
Authors: Fabius Henrick
Published: September 2017

Hoe te komen tot meer samenwerking voor beleidsonderzoek als creatief proces van richting, ordening en bijstelling

In dit essay biedt de auteur een handreiking voor creatieve samenwerking, niet als oplossing of regel, maar als creatief proces dat steeds per geval en situatie in elke fase van beleidsonderzoek kan worden ingericht. De auteur doet dit aan de hand van een aantal door de auteurs van Kennis voor beleid (2015) geformuleerde criteria.
Belgium and Democratic Constitution-Making: Prospects for the Future?
Authors: Van Crombrugge Ronald
Published: September 2017

Belgium and Democratic Constitution-Making: Prospects for the Future?

How constitutions are changed – and more importantly: how they should be changed – is the subject of ongoing debate. There seems to be a growing consensus, however, that in order for a constitution to be considered legitimate it is required that it was created through a democratic process. This growing consensus stands in sharp contrast with the Belgian experience of constitutional change as an essentially elite-led process that takes place behind closed doors. This article seeks to explore the possibilities for more democratic forms of constitutional change in Belgium. It does so by evaluating and comparing two examples of democratic constitution-making, namely the constitution-making processes In South Africa (1996) and Iceland (2012). On the basis of these two examples, several concrete suggestions will be made, which are not only relevant for the Belgian case but can be applied more broadly to other countries as well.
Grants and Acquisitions
Authors: Galloway Ann-Christe
Published: September 2017

The Washington University Libraries Film and Media Archive has received a grant from the National Film Preservation Foundation to preserve Code Blue, a 1972 recruitment film aimed at bringing minorities into the medical profession. Code Blue is one of the earliest existing films created by Henry Hampton’s Boston-based documentary company Blackside Inc., which produced the Emmy Award-winning civil rights series Eyes on the Prize. Blackside became the largest African American-owned film production company of its time and was home to many filmmakers from diverse backgrounds, including African Americans, immigrants, and women. The 27-minute documentary includes footage from an emergency room in Harlem, a tour through areas of Nashville with a doctor who did outreach to poor families, and discussions with young men and women from different backgrounds who could explain the value of medical education. Code Blue helped to bring new talent into the medical field and was used in hundreds of high schools and medical training curricula nationwide for more than 20 years. The film won a CINE Golden Eagle Award and was seen around the world, including at film festivals as far away as Venice’s Festival dei Popoli.
Evaluating Quality of Life in Patients with Hallux Abducto Valgus Deformity After a Taping Technique
Authors: Formosa Malcolm Paul , Gatt Alfred , Formosa Cynthia
Published: September 2017

Background:

The aim of this study was to determine the quality of life in patients living with hallux abducto valgus deformity before and after a taping technique.

Methods:

This study used a time series, quasi-experimental, same-subject design. Thirty-five patients with hallux abducto valgus were recruited in this study. Nonelastic zinc oxide tape was applied for 4 weeks. The Foot Health Status Questionnaire was used to assess the quality of life of participants before and after the intervention. The paired samples t test was used to test for statistical significance at the 95% confidence level.

Results:

In this study, a statistical reduction was seen in foot pain, foot function, and general foot health (P < .0001) after applying the nonelastic zinc oxide tape for 10 hours daily for 4 weeks. No statistically significant difference was found in the remaining domains of the Foot Health Status Questionnaire, although a difference in mean scores was observed.

Conclusions:

Treatment with nonelastic zinc oxide tape led to improved management of hallux abducto valgus and better quality of life; it is a safe, easy-to-use method with minimal adverse effects. Future studies should evaluate this method using larger sample groups and longer treatment periods while comparing this method with alternative treatment approaches, such as exercise or orthotic devices.