Clustering of groundwater chemistry data with implications for reservoir appraisal in West Siberia

Division of sedimentary strata according to groundwater chemistry is discussed with implications for petroleum reservoir potential. It is suggested to process multiparametric water chemistry data from West Siberia using formalized clustering techniques. The efficiency of this approach has been tested for Neocomian clinoform reservoirs with reference to regional-scale appraisal and subregional petroleum division.     

A space-based decametric wavelength radio telescope concept

This paper reports a design study for a space-based decametric wavelength telescope. While not a new concept, this design study focused on many of the operational aspects that would be required for an actual mission. This design optimized the number of spacecraft to insure good visibility of approx. 80% of the radio galaxies– the primary science target for the mission. A 5,000 km lunar orbit was selected to guarantee minimal gravitational perturbations from Earth and lower radio interference. Optimal schemes for data downlink, spacecraft ranging, and power consumption were identified. An optimal mission duration of 1 year was chosen based on science goals, payload complexity, and other factors. Finally, preliminary simulations showing image reconstruction were conducted to confirm viability of the mission. This work is intended to show the viability and science benefits of conducting multi-spacecraft networked radio astronomy missions in the next few years.     

Problems in the calibration of an acoustic device for the observation of bedload transport

Developments in theoretical and empirical modelling of bedload transport processes are hindered by the lack of an adequate data base for testing or establishing the models. Conventional methods of measuring bedload transport rates fail to provide the necessary continuous or frequent record of variations at a single section. Acoustic techniques have the potential to overcome this deficiency, but their application has been very limited. Some of the problems of calibrating an acoustic device in the field and in a laboratory flume are discussed, and a possible circuit design described which might minimize calibration difficulties by automatically subtracting the noise generated by flow turbulence.     

Solar x-ray control of the ionospheric absorption measured by the sweep frequency method

The ionospheric absorption data measured by the sweep frequency method have been compared with the solar x-ray data in the band of 1–8 Å during quiet- and disturbed-sun conditions. The degree of solar x-ray control of the ionospheric absorption and the corresponding limit of solar x-ray flux have been discussed.     

Parametric cubic splines and geologic shape descriptions

Parametric cubic splines provide a versatile means of describing and sampling shapes and curves commonly found in geology. These splines allow the researcher to treat easily curves which are not single-valued in Cartesian or polar coordinates. In addition, they simultaneously provide approximations to positions, slopes, and curvatures of the curve being considered. In conjunction with simple digitizing equipment and a small computer, the method of parametric cubic spline approximation allows the researcher to analyze curves or outlines in cases where the more rapid technique involving video imaging equipment is either not applicable or not available.     

Gravitational model of the Taiwan lithosphere (along the profile Taiwan Strait-Taiwan Island-West Philippine basin)

Based on two-dimensional gravity modeling, the density section of the lithosphere beneath Taiwan and the surrounding areas is constructed. According to the density parameters, the lithosphere of this region comprises both the continental and oceanic types. The continental lithosphere is lighter than the oceanic one and demonstrates insignificant density differentiation through the entire section. The oceanic lithosphere is more contrasting with respect of both the crust and mantle density. The complicated Taiwan density structure corresponding to Taiwan Island is defined to be superimposed on the transition zone between the continental and oceanic lithospheric blocks. This structure with contrasting density boundaries is characterized by the elevated and high density values of its constituting heterogeneities. The formation of the Taiwan density structure is related to geodynamic processes in the Taiwan area marking the collision zone between the Eurasian and Philippine Sea plates.