title: The use of artificial neural networks to analyze and predict alongshore sediment transport

authors: van Maanen, Barend

subjects: artificial neural networks

abstract: An artificial neural network (ANN) was developed to predict the depth-integrated alongshore suspended sediment transport rate using 4 input variables (water depth, wave height and period, and alongshore velocity). The ANN was trained and validated using a dataset obtained on the intertidal beach of Egmond aan Zee, the Netherlands. Rootmean- square deviation between observations and predictions was calculated to show that, for this specific dataset, the ANN ("rms=0.43) outperforms the commonly used Bailard (1981) formula ("rms=1.63), even when this formula is calibrated ("rms=0.66). Because of correlations between input variables, the predictive quality of the ANN can be improved further by considering only 3 out of the 4 available input variables ("rms=0.39). Finally, we use the partial derivatives method to “open and lighten” the generated ANNs with the purpose of showing that, although specific to the dataset in question, they are not “black-box” type models and can be used to analyze the physical processes associated with alongshore sediment transport. In this case, the alongshore component of the velocity, by itself or in combination with other input variables, has the largest explanatory power. Moreover, the behaviour of the ANN indicates that predictions can be unphysical and therefore unreliable when the input lies outside the parameter space over which the ANN has been developed. Our approach of combining the strong predictive power of ANNs with “lightening” the black box and testing its sensitivity, demonstrates that the use of an ANN approach can result in the development of generalized models of suspended sediment transport.

text: The use of artificial neural networks to analyze and predict alongshore sediment transport An artificial neural network (ANN) was developed to predict the depth-integrated alongshore suspended sediment transport rate using 4 input variables (water depth, wave height and period, and alongshore velocity). The ANN was trained and validated using a dataset obtained on the intertidal beach of Egmond aan Zee, the Netherlands. Rootmean- square deviation between observations and predictions was calculated to show that, for this specific dataset, the ANN ("rms=0.43) outperforms the commonly used Bailard (1981) formula ("rms=1.63), even when this formula is calibrated ("rms=0.66). Because of correlations between input variables, the predictive quality of the ANN can be improved further by considering only 3 out of the 4 available input variables ("rms=0.39). Finally, we use the partial derivatives method to “open and lighten” the generated ANNs with the purpose of showing that, although specific to the dataset in question, they are not “black-box” type models and can be used to analyze the physical processes associated with alongshore sediment transport. In this case, the alongshore component of the velocity, by itself or in combination with other input variables, has the largest explanatory power. Moreover, the behaviour of the ANN indicates that predictions can be unphysical and therefore unreliable when the input lies outside the parameter space over which the ANN has been developed. Our approach of combining the strong predictive power of ANNs with “lightening” the black box and testing its sensitivity, demonstrates that the use of an ANN approach can result in the development of generalized models of suspended sediment transport.

year: 2010

title: A second at the sign: Signage increases visitors’ recall of wildlife information at a kiwi hatchery

authors: George, Annie Bella

subjects: signage

abstract: Conservation of wildlife is an integral part of sustainable development of a nation and conservation education needs to remind citizens of how they can play their part. Signs are one of the commonly used low-cost tools to educate the public about different facts and actions necessary to conserve wildlife. I investigated whether a sign increased recall of pecific facts about kiwi predators. I used a single-case, multiple-baseline-across-site design with an ABAB reversal design. At the intervention site The National Kiwi Hatchery, Rotorua, visitor recall increased when the sign was present, compared to when it was absent.  At the control site, Hamilton Zoo, where no sign was placed, recall was similar to sign-absent conditions at the intervention site and did not change over the study period. My research provides evidence that signs can be effective low-cost behavioural interventions.

text: A second at the sign: Signage increases visitors’ recall of wildlife information at a kiwi hatchery Conservation of wildlife is an integral part of sustainable development of a nation and conservation education needs to remind citizens of how they can play their part. Signs are one of the commonly used low-cost tools to educate the public about different facts and actions necessary to conserve wildlife. I investigated whether a sign increased recall of pecific facts about kiwi predators. I used a single-case, multiple-baseline-across-site design with an ABAB reversal design. At the intervention site The National Kiwi Hatchery, Rotorua, visitor recall increased when the sign was present, compared to when it was absent.  At the control site, Hamilton Zoo, where no sign was placed, recall was similar to sign-absent conditions at the intervention site and did not change over the study period. My research provides evidence that signs can be effective low-cost behavioural interventions.

year: 2026

title: An evaluation of Te Rau Puawai workforce 100: Evaluation overview

authors: Nikora, Linda Waimarie

subjects: Maori students

abstract: In July 2001, the Maori & Psychology Research Unit of the University of Waikato was asked to conduct an evaluation of the Te Rau Puawai programme, a joint venture between the former Health Funding Authority and Massey University. The overall goal of the programme is to contribute at least 100 Maori graduates to the Maori mental health workforce within a five year period. The overall aim of the evaluation was to provide the Ministry of Health with a clearer understanding of the programme including: the perceived critical success factors, the barriers if any regarding Te Rau Puawai, the impact of the programme, the extent to which the programme may be transferable, gaps in the programme, and suggested improvements. Through archival search, questionnaire surveys and interviews, evaluative data was collected from major stakeholders in the Te Rau Puawai programme.

text: An evaluation of Te Rau Puawai workforce 100: Evaluation overview In July 2001, the Maori & Psychology Research Unit of the University of Waikato was asked to conduct an evaluation of the Te Rau Puawai programme, a joint venture between the former Health Funding Authority and Massey University. The overall goal of the programme is to contribute at least 100 Maori graduates to the Maori mental health workforce within a five year period. The overall aim of the evaluation was to provide the Ministry of Health with a clearer understanding of the programme including: the perceived critical success factors, the barriers if any regarding Te Rau Puawai, the impact of the programme, the extent to which the programme may be transferable, gaps in the programme, and suggested improvements. Through archival search, questionnaire surveys and interviews, evaluative data was collected from major stakeholders in the Te Rau Puawai programme.

year: 2002-05-01